I've always felt that working at Bookmans was like working with one large extended family. I come to work every single day to a group of people who are just as passionate, caring, and giving as I am. My favorite part of the day is walking through the door and having a handful of employees greet me with a wave or smile. Granted, we all have our “off days”, but those are few and far between.

Recently, I felt that this family ideal was reinforced with the news of the Flagstaff roof collapse. While here in Phoenix and Mesa we don't necessarily know all of our co-workers to the North, but our hearts went out to them nonetheless. When you are a Bookmans employee, work is your home away from home. Everyone I spoke expressed their sadness and sympathy, and even volunteered their time, if needed.

I've seen the stores here come together so many times to make sure that each store has everything available to fulfill their needs. I've even read and received lots of comments from our wonderful and loyal customers with offers of assistance, donations, or even just the sharing of a wonderful memory that is linked to Bookmans.

With so much going on in the world, it just continues to fuel my desire to give back as much as possible. I'm so thankful to work in this environment with all of these great people, coworkers and customers alike; and I feel it is a huge pleasure and honor to give back to our community on behalf of my huge Bookmans family!