Convention of States Arizona members dubbed the “Magnificent Seven” ran an informational booth at Arizona’s 8th Annual Second Amendment Rally on February 20 at the Arizona State Capitol Complex lawn.
Presented by national motorcycle club RidersUSA, the event was kick started with the traditional motorcycle procession from Encanto Park Sports Complex to the state capitol. The crowd--estimated between 3,000 and 5,000--was treated to a slate of 16 speakers and an inspiring rendition of our national anthem by Evie Clair, a finalist from the popular TV show America’s Got Talent.
COS Arizona set up shop near the House of Representatives building. Although they were too far from the main stage to hear the speakers, most of our members didn’t mind, because they were too busy talking to people and sharing information!
The results were fantastic. Over 100 people signed the petition, and dozens signed up as new state volunteers. COS members spoke to hundreds of people and estimate that about 40% of the folks had never heard of COS and were very interested in getting involved.
Organizers said the atmosphere at this year’s rally was a little different from previous years due to the looming vote on H.R. 127 in the U.S. House of Representatives. Despite their upbeat optimism and patriotic regalia, rally goers were clear about their desire for change in our government.
They were searching for answers on what can be done. COS Arizona members filled the bill. A huge thanks goes to our members Christian Gruita, Geoffrey Greenwell, Josh Rubio, David Hoven, Owen Bridgeman, Duncan Harvey, Conner McKee, Bill Bishop, Mike Miller, and Bob Burns.
In other COS Arizona news, two members stood up, spoke up, and showed up at AJI Sporting Goods in Apache Junction, just east of Phoenix. Special thanks to Debbie Garris and Donna Weiss, as the pair were able to get 78 people to sign the COS petition!
