by 
Superior Mayor Mila Besich-Lira
November is by far my favorite month: it is the month that we set aside several days to practice our rights to public participation in our government, we honor and respect all of our Veterans and we spend time giving thanks for all that we are truly grateful.
I am thankful for all of our members in our community who do all that they can to make our community a better place. You may be thinking, I am not involved in any of the clubs or committees and that is okay – you are reading this and by informing yourself you are participating. There are many opportunities to serve in our community – just ask.
The fact that we still have a democratic process is all due in part to our Veterans and their families. Their sacrifices continue to allow us many freedoms today and will protect us well into the future. The opportunity to recognize their service exists every day, getting involved in community projects or participating in a public process are both ways to support our Veterans and participate in democracy, everyday not just on election day.
There is an extensive public process going on now and into 2017 with the planning of the Tonto National Forest Apache Leap Management District. I encourage all residents to practice their right to communicate how they would like to see Apache Leap managed. If our voices are not recorded, we may lose an opportunity to protect the uses that we enjoy. You can submit your letters to the Tonto National Forest via US Mail at Apache Leap SMA PO Box 34468 Phoenix, Arizona 85067 or you can submit comments online at www.ApacheLeapSMA.us.
Wishing you all a very Happy Thanksgiving – may your holiday be filled with traditions, memories and love.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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