Crash survivor to speak

Dave Sanderson, a prominent survivor of the US Airways jet that ditched into the Hudson River near midtown Manhattan in January 2009, will be the guest speaker at a Red Cross luncheon Sept. 22 at Boudreaux’s on Government Street.

Three miles into the flight out of LaGuardia, the plane flew through a flock of birds, which struck and killed both engines. Pilot Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger glided the aircraft safely down to the water. All 150 passengers and five crew members survived the “Miracle on the Hudson.”

Sanderson, returning home from a routine business trip, put himself in peril making sure every passenger escaped the slowly sinking jet.

Red Cross volunteers were among the many who responded that day. “These people volunteer their time and efforts during tragic, tough, challenging situations,” Sanderson says.

The luncheon is Red Cross’s annual Power of the Purse event. It includes a charity auction and style show. Doors open at 11 a.m., and lunch begins at noon.

For tickets, call 291-4533.