Discover Greenlee Newsletter
August 2026 | Issue 53
Edited and Designed by: Margaret Dillard of Dillard Marketing
Publisher: GTA Chair, Akos Kovach
📅 Magnificent Seven Events Calendar
Check out what’s happening! The Magnificent Seven Calendar seeks to include community events from Cochise, Graham, Apache, and Greenlee in Arizona, plus Catron, Grant, and Hidalgo Counties in New Mexico. From community gatherings to outdoor adventures, there’s always something exciting on the calendar. August’s events below are included on our Community Calendar. Click and you will be able to see events in several convenient formats. You’ll also be able to print and share the calendar or add events to your personal online calendar.
For inclusion in next month’s newsletter, send events to visitgreenlee@gmail.com. Please send complete info: name of event, where and when it will be held, brief description (or send a PDF of your flyer), contact information giving readers need more details, AND sponsoring organization if there is one.
Submit Your Event|
Greenlee Tourism Coalition Join or renew your GTC membershipSupport tourism in Greenlee County. Members help shape the future of our community and region. |
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Or visit visitgreenleecounty.com to pay dues online · Questions? visitgreenlee@gmail.com |
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Mail a check to: GTC · PO Box 342 · Clifton, AZ 85533 |
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The Greenlee Tourism Association is pleased to showcase poetry from Kalen Reyes, a new member of Greenlee Tourism Association Board of Directors. Kalen brings a thoughtful perspective, a deep appreciation for community, and a gift for storytelling that reflects the spirit and resilience of the places we call home.
Kalen’s original poem, “Until the Mountain Learns My Name,” is a powerful reflection on courage, purpose, and finding light even in life’s most challenging seasons and explores themes of perseverance, faith, hope, and the beauty found in life’s journey.
We are honored to share her work and look forward to the creativity, insight, and passion she will bring to the Greenlee Tourism Association as we continue celebrating and promoting the remarkable landscapes, history, and communities of Greenlee County.
Until the Mountain Learns My Name
Once, I courted tomorrow
as though hope were a season
waiting just beyond the bend.
Next year..
Next month…
When the wind is gentler….
When the valley loosens its grip…..
Then I discovered
the mountain has no intention
of becoming smaller.
It is I
who have become acquainted with ascent.
The world has admired
the wildflowers gathered in my hands,
never noticing
the thorns still woven through my palms.
So often I clothed my sorrow in gratitude,
not because grief was absent,
but because I feared
to crown it sovereign over my days.
Yet even unnamed,
it carried weight.
Even silent,
it bled.
Still –
there is a river
no drought persuades to cease,
a flame
no tempest has negotiated into surrender.
Its name is not mine.
It is the breath of God –
moving through fractured vessels,
teaching broken reeds
to sing against the wind.
If I must dwell within the storm,
let me become
the stillness at its center.
If I must walk the battlefield,
let my feet remember
they were fashioned first
for holy ground.
Not to conquer,
but to cultivate.
Not to condemn,
but to leave gardens
where others expected scars.
I cannot promise
that every prayer will resemble rescue,
nor every dawn
the ending I imagined.
Still, I have learned
that Providence is not measured
by the absence of thunder,
but by the Voice
that outlives it.
So let the night gather
all the shadows it can carry.
I have no quarrel with the darkness.
We have become familiar,
yet I have never walked it alone.
There has always been
a lamp beyond my own keeping.
I have seen
how morning rehearses itself
long before the horizon believes.
So, should these hands
bear both burden and blessing,
let them remain open.
For Love has never asked me
to wait until the war is over.
Only
to keep becoming light
where the battle
cannot imagine it belongs.
Safety net becomes Community Bridge
—by Akos Kovach
Friends, neighbors and countrymen – lend us your attention~!
Since early at the beginning of this year an effort to pull together a consortium of not only businesses and nonprofit organizations, but also churches, cities, towns and others that see the need for a way to address homelessness, food shortages, gas money to get back and forth to work until the first paycheck comes through. Others we see are facing a crisis, while more fear loneliness and abandonment.
We called the effort ‘the safety net’ but one of our Board Members, Kalen Reyes, found the right words to describe how to come together in a dynamic manner.
What does this have to do with Tourism?
Each town, every city all counties want visitors and guests to feel welcome and embraced by genuine hospitality. Here we are today offering an idea of hope, and an actual game plan to succeed in assisting those in need while showcasing the inner strength and comradery that truly exists in rural areas.
Sure we want you to come visit, spend some time, maybe a little money while visiting us. But there is more to ‘us’ than just a hotel, or restaurant, a bowling alley or paint ball business. “Us” means real people who serve as clerks, guides, shop keepers, first responders and guess what? We all have families and friends we want to come see us, to visit us.
So please take some time reading the Discover Greenlee Newsletter, check out the flyers from around this amazing region that show you events and activities often hidden from view due to a lack of forming that ‘community bridge’.
Make suggestions. Participate. Volunteer. Visit.
Thank you,
Akos Kovach, Greenlee County Tourism Assn Chair
The Greenlee Community Bridge
Building Stronger Connections. Creating Stronger Communities
“No one organization can meet every need. But together, we can.”
Every day across Greenlee County, people quietly make a difference.
A teacher notices a struggling student. A nurse comforts a worried family. A deputy stays a little longer after a difficult call. A pastor answers the phone after hours. Volunteers fill food boxes, deliver meals, mentor youth, and offer hope.
These acts may seem small on their own, but together they create the foundation of a caring community.
The Greenlee Community Bridge is an invitation to strengthen those connections—not by creating another organization, but by helping the organizations we already have work together more effectively.
Why This Matters
When families face challenges, they rarely need just one service.
Someone experiencing a mental health crisis may also need transportation, food, childcare, employment assistance, or simply someone willing to listen.
A senior may need medical care, a meal, and regular companionship.
A family facing hardship often doesn’t know where to begin.
The resources already exist throughout Greenlee County. The challenge is making those resources easier to find and helping organizations connect people to the right support at the right time.
Our Vision
Imagine a Greenlee County where:
- Families find help sooner.
- Teachers know who to call before a crisis develops.
- First responders have current resource information at their fingertips.
- Churches, nonprofits, healthcare providers, schools, businesses, and local governments know one another personally.
- Volunteers easily discover where they are needed.
- Organizations work together instead of working in isolation.
Each organization remains independent while becoming stronger through collaboration.
How We Begin
The Greenlee Community Bridge starts with five simple steps:
1. Listen
Bring community leaders, organizations, and volunteers together to build relationships and understand local needs.
2. Connect
Create a shared, up-to-date directory of community resources that everyone can access and trust.
3. Refer
Strengthen communication so people find the right help more quickly.
4. Collaborate
Partner on projects, events, and solutions that improve life throughout Greenlee County.
5. Grow
Meet regularly to share ideas, celebrate successes, identify gaps, and continue building relationships.
Success Looks Like…
Success isn’t measured by the number of meetings or the size of a directory.
Success is measured when:
- Families receive help before problems become crises.
- Organizations confidently refer people to one another.
- Volunteers find meaningful opportunities to serve.
- New partnerships emerge.
- Fewer people fall through the cracks.
- More neighbors know they are not alone.
An Invitation
This is not a finished plan.
It is the beginning of a conversation.
The Greenlee Community Bridge belongs to everyone who cares about the future of our communities—schools, churches, healthcare providers, first responders, businesses, nonprofits, civic organizations, volunteers, and neighbors.
Everyone brings unique experience. Everyone has something to contribute.
You don’t have to solve every problem.
You simply have to bring what you can.
Together, we can build stronger relationships, stronger organizations, and a stronger Greenlee County.
Let’s build the bridge—together.
Friday, August 22 | 8:30 AM scheduled first patients (6 each half-hour – last patient scheduled for 4:30 PM)
Clifton American Legion Post 28, 51 Frisco, Clifton, AZ
Contact person: Chad Brown, 712-253-0045
Optometrists and Ophthalmologists will provide a complete eye exam and glasses for those in need.
Patients with no insurance or people with low incomes are qualified to participate.
We encourage all others with insurance or those of economic means to get regular eye exams with the good optometry professionals in Safford or your local area. As some may remember, the last optometrist in Clifton was Dr. David Stacy. Dr. Stacy had a very successful practice in Mesa, Arizona and is now retired. David was a past president of our VOSH AZ group and a big proponent of outreach. Dr. Stacy hopes that those in need come visit on the 22nd of August.
We will have homemade sweets for a continental breakfast for Doctors and students upon their arrival. Lunch will be prepared by Chelle Briggs and served in an adjoining room.
In an effort to meet HIPAA requirements, partitions will be used. Volunteers from the American Legion will receive and register patients beginning at 8:30.
Expect to have auto refraction and pressures on patients as they proceed to doctor cubicles for further exam.
See you soon!
Ed York, VOSH Volunteer
AUGUST Events
ARIZONA
American Red Cross Blood Drive
Friday, August 7 | 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Duncan United Methodist Church Parish Hall, 128 Main St, Duncan
Donors get a $20 Amazon gift card by email. Sponsor code: DUNCAN COMM. Call 1-800-733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org.
Chase Creek Street Fair
Saturday, August 15 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Chase Creek Street, Clifton. Vendor set-up at 4:00 PM.
Food vendors, music, and family fun. Presented by the Clifton Social Club.
2-Day Baseball Camp with Brett Jensen & Nate Porter
Friday & Saturday, August 21 – 22 | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Duncan High School
Instruction on hitting, pitching, fielding, throwing, baserunning. Ages 6–18, all positions. $100, limited spots. Hosted by Gila Valley Baseball Academy.
No Cost Eye Clinic
Saturday, August 22 | 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
American Legion Post 28
For those with little or no insurance who need an eye exam. Glasses provided same day, courtesy of VOSH International. Se habla español. Questions: Chad Brown, 712-253-0045. See full details above.
Duncan Valley Fire: Volunteer Firefighters Needed
Applications due 5:00 PM, Saturday, August 29
Duncan Valley Rural Fire District
Min. 18 years old, must live within 15 minutes of a station, valid AZ driver’s license, pass background/drug screen. Panel interviews Aug 31–Sept 4, training Sept 28–Oct 31. Apply: duncanfireaz.org/volunteer
Safford Veteran Engagement & Resource Fair
Thursday, August 13 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
American Legion Swift-Murphy Post 32, 531 S 11th Ave, Safford
VA and community resources for veterans, their families, and caregivers. Info: SAVAHCS Public Affairs, (520) 629-1819.
Serve MD Community Lunch: New Primary Care Services
Wednesday, August 12
Safford
Serve MD celebrates the launch of new primary care services with provider Ray Tuttle, alongside a community lunch.
Slow Pitch Softball Tournament
August 28 – 29
Safford Fairgrounds
Co-ed, all skill levels. $250/team, register by Aug 17. Raffles, homerun bracelets. Proceeds fund a scholarship in honor of Jaelynn Seballos. Text Jorden Seballos 928-215-0557, Shaunee Seballos 928-215-0283, or Derek Waltrip 928-215-6215.
Safford Women’s Conference: “It’s a Wonderful Life with Christ!”
Saturday, August 29 | 9:00 AM
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Safford
A morning of fellowship and inspiration for women in the community.
Apache County Fair (84th Annual)
August 26 – 29
Apache County Fairgrounds, St. Johns
Family-friendly fun for all generations. Info: apachecountyfair@gmail.com or (928) 551-4037.
NEW MEXICO
Baldwin Cabin Public Library: August Events
Throughout August
7843 US-60, Datil
Free monthly programs for all ages: Science Club, Board Meeting, Book Club, Craft-O-Rama, Alzheimer’s Caregiving Group, and Book Bingo. Free and open to the public. Call 505-239-3475.
Catron County Fair: Pet Show
Thursday, August 20 | 1:00 PM
Catron County Fair, show ring
All children 8 and under welcome. Bring a friendly, well-mannered pet. Prizes for all! Contact Kristin Carver with questions.
Catron County Fair: PeeWee Showmanship
Friday, August 21 | 12:00 PM (noon)
Catron County Fair
Youth 8 and under, swine, goat, and lamb. Prior permission required – sign up before show. Contact Kristin Carver with questions.
Run for Catron County 5K
Friday, August 28 | 9:00 AM
Quemado High School, 3484 US-60, Quemado
Early registration through Aug 11: $35. Race day: $40. Children under 12: $25. Early packet pickup Aug 20, 10 AM–2 PM.
Hidalgo County Fair
August 27 – 29
Hidalgo County Fairgrounds, Lordsburg
Rides, games, and carnival treats by Midway West Amusements. All-day pass presale $20 (regular $30) at the Chamber of Commerce.
Hidalgo Fair: Junior Rodeo
Thursday, August 27 | 6:00 PM (NM time)
Hidalgo County Fairgrounds, Lordsburg
Trophy buckles to event winners, age groups 5 & under through 15–18. Barrels, flags, poles, goats, breakaway, team roping, steer events. Added money. Contact Kassi Mortensen, 575-313-4938.
Hidalgo Fair: Salsa Contest
Thursday, August 27 | Entries 5:00 PM / Judging 6:00 PM
On the slab next to the Junior Livestock Ring
Categories: red, verde, fruit, hot, mild, people’s choice. Homemade salsa, 1 pint required, bring recipe.
Hidalgo Fair: Pet Show
Thursday, August 27 | Entries 5:00 PM / Show 6:00 PM
Junior Livestock Show Ring
Entry fee is a donation of pet supplies for the local animal shelter. Categories: Best Dressed, Cutest, Best Trick, and more. Pet adoptions available.
Hidalgo County Fair Parade
Friday, August 28 | Lineup 4:00 PM / Parade 5:00 PM
Line up on 2nd Street, Lordsburg
Trophies for 1st and 2nd best floats. Register at the Lordsburg-Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce, 575-542-9864.
Hidalgo Fair: Kids Stick Horse Rodeo (5th Annual Bootheel Stampede)
Saturday, August 29 | Entries 3:30 PM / Rodeo 4:00 PM
Livestock Show Ring
Age groups 2–4, 5–6, 7–8. Events: barrels, pole bending, flags, goat tag. Entries capped at 30. Bring your own stick horse!
Great American Duck Race
August 20 – 23
Deming
A 47-year New Mexico tradition – 20,000+ spectators watch the fastest feathered racers in the West. Carnival, parade, tortilla toss, hot-air balloon ascension, live music, and a skateboard competition.
Deming Arts Center: August Gallery Show
August 3 – 29 | Mon–Fri 10 AM–4 PM, Sat 10 AM–1 PM
Deming Arts Center
Featuring the work of Jeff Cooper, Jesse Kriegel, and Mary Jo Stenson.
Looking Ahead: September
Greenlee County Fair: “Let the Good Times Grow”
September 17 – 20
Greenlee County Fairgrounds
NIRA Rodeo, livestock shows, entertainment, food vendors, carnival rides, and live music. Admission $5, ages 4 & under free, 65+ free.
Community Corner: Resources
Veterans Crisis Line
If you or someone you know is a veteran in crisis, dial 988 then press 0. Help is available to talk, listen, or reach out. Courtesy of the American Legion.
Southeastern Arizona Community Action Program (SEACAP)
Serving Graham & Greenlee County residents with support services. 283 West 5th Street, Safford, AZ. Toll-free: 1-800-293-1144. Phone: (928) 428-4653. Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
| Ongoing & Recurring Events | ||||||
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Greenlee County Substance Abuse Coalition meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month, from noon–1pm. We alternate between two locations each month. We also have a Zoom option. Contact Theresa Campbell 602-762-0511 or Stephanie Collier 520-208-1779 for more information.
- 7/1/26 – Duncan Elementary, 101 McGrath Ave.
- 8/5/26 – Morenci Unified School District Office – 538 Stadium Dr.
- 9/2/26 – Duncan Elementary, 101 McGrath Ave.
- 10/7/26 – Morenci Unified School District Office – 538 Stadium Dr.
- 11/4/26 – Duncan Elementary, 101 McGrath Ave.
- 12/2/26 – Morenci Unified School District Office – 538 Stadium Dr.
Thank you again, and please let us know if you have any problems or questions.
Stephanie Collier
Greenlee County Substance Abuse Coalition
(520) 208-1779
Job Board
| Who’s Hiring |
| ARIZONA |
| Greenlee County |
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Greenlee County Government Fair Worker (Seasonal), Public Works Facilities Tech I, Landfill Attendant (PT), Administrative Assistant – Assessor (PT), Public Works Operations Tech II Roads, IT Director/CIO, Chief Security Officer – Superior Court. Apply: greenlee.az.gov/jobs | Sheriff’s Office (Dispatch Officer, Jail Officer I): greenlee.az.gov/gcso-jobs |
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Freeport-McMoRan – Morenci Mine One of the region’s largest employers, hiring year-round across mining, mechanical, and operations roles. Housing allowance available for on-site employees. Search “Morenci” at jobs.fcx.com |
| Graham County |
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Graham County Government Probation Officer, Planning & Zoning, Clerk of the Court, Sheriff’s Office (Lateral), Sheriff’s Adult Detention Facility (FT/PT), Highway Department (CDL), Parks & Fairgrounds. Apply: graham.az.gov/Jobs.aspx |
| Apache & Cochise Counties |
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Current openings change frequently – check each county’s portal directly: Apache County: apachecountyaz.gov/Job-Postings | Cochise County: governmentjobs.com/careers/cochise |
| NEW MEXICO |
| Hidalgo County |
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Hidalgo County Government Sheriff’s Office – 1 full-time Certified Deputy. County Manager’s Office – full-time EMT (Basic, Intermediate, or Paramedic). Dispatch Center – full-time temporary Dispatcher (path to permanent). County pays 85% of health, dental, and vision insurance. Applications: Hidalgo County Manager’s Office, 305 Pyramid St, Lordsburg, or email Miriam.Jacquez@hidalgocounty.org, 575-542-9428. |
| Catron, Grant & Luna Counties |
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Check each county’s portal directly: Grant County: governmentjobs.com/careers/grantcountynm | Catron & Luna Counties: contact county clerk’s office for current postings. |
Visit Greenlee County Jobs Page Visit Greenlee County Sheriff Department Page
Links
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Greenlee Tourism Association
PO Box 342, Clifton, AZ 85533
