Mask wearing in these challenging times not only is a gesture of kindness and respect for others, but it’s a fashion statement. Our very own Encanterra members, Deb and Bob Chiaramonte have a special story on how they got into the mask making business. Their story seems like more of a coincidence and it’s kept them on their toes the past few months. 
Deb grew up in New York and she was around sewing machines at a very young age. Her father owned a ladies clothing factory in the Garment Center and her mother was a seamstress. Her parents later opened up a sewing machine store in Long Island. Even though Deb grew up around her parents sewing business she never really took an interest in sewing. Her dad even gave her a sewing machine that is now nearly 40 years old.
Deb has worked at Casino Arizona for just over 21 years as a blackjack dealer. It’s been a fun and rewarding career. But when the virus hit, she decided it was time to take a step back. She found herself in a new phase of life where she needed to be home with her husband Bob. They have been married for just over 44 years. Bob has had underlying health issues and they both felt it would be best for her to be at home. Deb soon decided she needed to stay busy and she wanted to give back to the community. She knew it was time to get out her 40 year old sewing machine and start making masks. But very quickly, the old sewing machine broke down. During her first few weeks of making masks, Deb made several trips to a local fabric store. During one of those visits she entered a contest to win a brand new sewing machine. Soon after the old sewing machine broke down, she gets a call and has won the brand new sewing machine! She cannot believe it and knows that it was meant to be.
Deb found a new love for sewing very quickly. Especially with her brand new machine! She averages about 70 masks per week and many of her supplies and tread are all donated. Bob is a huge help with cutting the fabric and ironing the pieces. It’s a team effort between the two of them and they have so much fun together. They also have assistance from their son Bobby and daughter-in-law Rachel. They do the delivering and trimming, so it’s a family affair. And the best part — 100% of the proceeds go to the Veterans. Bob is a disabled Vietnam Veteran so it only made sense to give back to
this organization. They feel so fortunate to be able to give back to the community, help people mask up and assist the veteran community. If you would like to donate any sewing supplies or anything to the Veterans, please contact Deb directly at dzinesbydeb@gmail.com. As an Encanterra Community, we are all in this together. These times are challenging but remember to help those in need and support your neighbors.
this organization. They feel so fortunate to be able to give back to the community, help people mask up and assist the veteran community. If you would like to donate any sewing supplies or anything to the Veterans, please contact Deb directly at dzinesbydeb@gmail.com. As an Encanterra Community, we are all in this together. These times are challenging but remember to help those in need and support your neighbors. 
