Fires are raging in Arizona and the western states. The human drama of the fire around Mayer and other small Yavapai County towns is a close reminder of the destructive fires we in the Copper Basin suffered not once, but twice. This is an especially hot summer. The afternoon breezes have accelerated moisture loss, making fire conditions worse.
We don’t live in a forest in our part of Arizona, but we still could learn a few things from those who do. People in Pine, Strawberry, and Payson clear the area around their houses from all flammable materials. Yes, they deal with pine needles, but also with lumber piles and wood piles and weeds and grass. Except for pine needles, we have everything to cause a house fire to spread to other homes. Break out those work gloves, and remember that Kearny’s transfer station is open early Saturday morning, July 8.
The Family Night at the Kearny pool last week was so successful that another has been set for this Saturday, July 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is only $5 per family, and swim passes are honored. The lifeguards have started a small concession stand, and there will be music.
It is encouraging that so many people are working to support the pool. Supporters include the Copper Basin Health Volunteers at $2,000, local businesses providing snacks and towels, and several individuals and families who are “adopting” children by providing pool passes. One family even has a rivalry going their son and daughter come with their parents in generosity. On top of all that, the Kearny Elks Lodge 2478 acquired a grant of $1,250 for passes, equipment, and lifeguard shirts. Way to go, people!
The local Mayors’ Meeting has proven itself by growing to include the towns of Globe and Miami. Its next meeting is Tuesday, July 11, in Globe. The mayors of the towns and occasionally town staff take part.
San Manuel has a full day, Saturday, July 8, devoted to showing personal and financial support for the San Manuel Summer Softball program. A double elimination horseshoe tournament begins at noon (sign ups close a half hour earlier) at $20 per team. The softball tournament goes through the day, and a steak dinner will take place at the field from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. or plates can be picked up. The cost is $10 a plate, and $6 a plate for children under 12. Need more information? Call 520-345-7660.
Area residents Kira Granillo, Leysa Rought, and Veronica Bracamonte took part in a gathering sponsored by Local First Arizona, the Copper Corridor Economic Development Corporation, and the South Gila County Economic Development Corporation. The meeting was about people coming together in cooperative ways to develop the local and regional economy. The three women are working to gather interested people to explore and develop economic opportunities for all kinds of products and services. Contact one of the three for more information.
Finally, congratulation to the Board of the Cobre Valley Institute of Technology (CVIT) for electing and swearing in Anna Flores, Kearny’s Town Manager, to serve with them.
And for all of us, use sun screen and stay hydrated!