By John Sanders, professional journalist
The humanitarian project Focus Comic concluded its first advisory board meeting, which was held at the Islands Restaurant in Avondale on August 30 2026. Board members, Focus Comic representatives, and guests spoke with each other on matters pertaining to Focus Comic and its broader focus on the Legends event, which is predominantly spearheaded by Focus Comic founder Yvonne Wan.
Wan is a social cultural anthropologist, artist, and educator who has taught nearly 1,000 children with autism how to draw and paint. This educational instruction is part of Focus Comic’s initiative to prepare children with resources for the future. Wan also utilizes organization funds for the Legends event, which honors military service members, fire fighters, paramedics, and police officers, either living or fallen, with portraits and commendations.
The Focus Comic advisory board includes Wan, David Shuler (veteran), John Sanders (journalist), Jill Voit (educator), Debbie Musselman (fire service), and Gabriel Howell (active airman), all of whom attended the meeting.
Also attending were guests and Focus Comic team members including Nolan Radoslovich (intern), Dominic Radoslovich (veteran and Nolan’s father), Khaelan Howell (Howell’s wife), Phoenix Pacheco (photographer) and her assistant, Dan Moran (Phoenix fire fighter and son of Luke Moran, a fallen fire fighter), Moran’s grandparents, and Jenny Quintero (logistics, and mother of a Focus Comic student who has down syndrome and autism).
Absent from the meeting were photographers Reiker and Yoseph, Scott Figgins (fire service), and Deborah Edenhofer (mother of Tyler Edenhofer, a fallen AZDPS officer).
Wan has hosted Legends events in the past, which require three months of work. Her goal is to host the event in November, depending on when sponsorship funding can be accrued. Focus Comic will send invitations to dignitaries including Governor Hobbs and the Royal family. The Legends event may include an honor guard for the presentation of colors, and another honor guard for the rifle arc or saber arc ceremony.
Focus Comic seeks more volunteers to assist with grant writing, as well as finding sponsors and retail partners. Additionally, volunteer photographers and administrative workers are needed. Going forward, Focus Comic will also continue to host community outreach events to spread awareness about its ongoing mission.
Focus Comic would like to extend a thank you to the Islands Restaurant for hosting its meeting and providing complimentary food.
