The 2011 Miami Boomtown Spree was considerably different than those of years past.  The major difference was the moving of the event from Sullivan Street to the Bullion Plaza property.  This decision was one that was met with mixed feelings by most local people I talked to.

Boomtown Spree was held at Bullion Plaza Museum & Cultural Center this year.

Most, I would say, did not like this move, either because they liked it as in the past, or because of the issues that became apparent as the event went on such as parking, scheduling, and problems with the facility itself.

The Haul Pack Stage was kind of neat in one sense but there was no seating and a total lack of shade in the area where an audience would have sat for performances.

One good thing was that the weather was very cooperative other than some occasional wind.  Saturday morning the temperature for the start of the race was 61 degrees with a predicted high of 84.  This is the kind of weather we live in Arizona for! I personally feel that the Boom Town Spree should be utilized to showcase the historic downtown area, promote tourism and assist those who have invested in our town’s main street.

Copper Crawl Hill Run…

Of all of the events, The Annual Copper Crawl race was the most successful with a total of 204 participants essentially doubling the numbers from years past.  Kudos to Brandon Parker who, according to what I learned, was largely responsible for this increase.  The only issue was the delay of the awards ceremony because they had so many more participants to deal with.

Rene Lazos, from Superior, took 1st in the 13K in his age group (40-50yr) and 1st OVERALL with a time of 1:00:34. The 2nd fastest time of the day was put in by Aaron Bechdolt in 1:02:25. Third fastest time was,Mark Babieracki ,of Globe, in the (30-39 age group) with a time of 1:04:58

The 5K race was completed in a time of 24 min and 31 sec by Brandon Thompson, age 17!  A huge surprise was a time of 30 min 09 sec recorded By Aakala Hatch, age 9!  The fastest time set in the 13K race was 1 hr 34 sec by Mr. Rene Lazo, age 41.  Crossing the line second was Aaron Bechdolt at 1 hr 2 min 25 sec.and third was Andrew Salcido just two seconds behind Bechdolt.  The first woman to finish was Carley Breman, age 25 at 1hr 17 min 30 sec followed by Janet Gensler age 58 at 1 hr, 17 min 58 sec. Go Janet, can you imagine beating out the rest of the field at 58 years old!  Janet is from Queen Creek and was running the Copper Crawl for the first time.

The contestant who traveled the furthest I’m told was from Switzerland!  Check the GMT for complete race results and stats:  Copper Crawl Hill Run Results

Arizona Mining Championships…

Matt Decker, All Around Mining Champion 2011

The Arizona Mining Championships were entertaining and included eleven men with a crew of four miners from the Gold Road Mine in Kingman AZ.  The All Around title was secured by Matt Decker who placed 1^st in Hand Mucking, Hand Drilling, Spike Driving and Team Drilling and 2^nd in Machine Drilling.  Eight ladies competed in the women’s events with Billie Parish finishing first in Hand Mucking and Sheryl Cormack in Spike Driving.

No Bed Races…

On Sunday, the only event which came to fruition was the children’s mining events as the ever popular Bed Races were canceled.  I heard several different reasons for this canceling but I believe it was because there were issues regarding where the races would be run as cars were lining all of the streets surrounding the Bullion Plaza property.  In any case, there were quite a few kids who participated in the Children’s Mining Events of Mucking and Spike Driving and a good time was had by all.  I was told by the organizers that about 8 different vendors did not return for Sunday but all of the food booths were open.

Despite the issues which arose mainly from the moving of the event from its original location, the Miami Boomtown Spree for 2011 was still a success.  I’m sure discussion will continue for some time regarding the move and I would like for the organizers to at least consider returning the event to the original location next year.

There is a feeling I get when I have a moment of acute awareness. My breath catches, I tingle, and sometimes I even giggle. Well that is exactly how I felt as I got in my car to leave Vida E Cafe 157 W. Ceder Street, Globe, Az. I had just attended their First Friday Open Mic, and I was a bit jittery from my triple shot latte, which might account for the catchy breath, tingling, and even the giggling. Yet, I knew I was on to a dawning realization of why I so enjoy the open mic events in our community. It is not just those individuals who fearlessly go forward to perform, it not just the delicious coffee and food that I crave, no, it is the fellowship, the camaraderie, it is the love that keeps me coming back. The erasing of imaginary boundaries between young and old, genres, styles, words spoken or sang. On this First Friday, I watched as musicians exchanged ideas, equipment, stories, and a deep appreciation for each others musical endeavors. I watched as family and friends, and musicians and poets not performing came to support the evening’s performers in a delightful attitude of fun. A sense of joy swirled around the room, intermingling with music and the warm reassuring scent of coffee.

Sleep did not come to me easily that night, thanks to my lack of restraint concerning my penchant for lattes, dark and strong, and my usual racing mind. So with sleep eluding me, my thoughts went back to my lingering impressions of the evening. I thought of Mitchell Brown singing and playing harmonica and guitar to the great folk songs of the 1960s. He played Creedance Clearwater Revival’s Have You Ever Seen The Rain, then Jackson Browne’s After The Deluge, and finally People Get Ready by Curtis Mayfield. I enjoyed Mitchell’s commentary between songs. He was from that time, singing songs from that time and that experience was evident. He had a wealth of information, and I watched, as young and older musicians came to him after he played to talk to him. There were some technical difficulties in the middle of Mitchell’s first song, a loud pop came from the speaker, and it seemed to be broken. But this did not seem to hinder his playing at all. Jared Spencer, the ever diligent and delightful MC raced home to get his equipment, as did the masterful Jim Vandine. Soon the equipment was switched over and the show went on.

This camaraderie, continued on beyond our local community, to people like, Linda Watson, a poet who resides in Fort Thomas, who came all the way to Globe with a friend to enjoy Vida E’s First Friday. Linda read two poems, A Single Rose, and Darkness. A Single Rose was a beautiful metaphor for the cycle of life. Darkness, was filled with vivid imagery. I so appreciate fellow poets. It is a perk for me to attend these events where poets read. I recalled being impressed by a young man offering his chair to a lady. The place was packed, truly, standing room only. I was struck with just how caring our community is, how eager to help, and appreciative of all the good our community has to offer.

I reflected, as my mind was still reeling, on the other musicians like Chris Mathews, a young musician playing the guitar and harmonica, with a nice wavering voice, reminiscent of the lead singer of the Desaparecidos, Conner Oberst. Chris played two original songs, which were nicely fleshed out. His words held intense imagery, poetry with music. He finished his set with the classic Resolution Road by Bob Dylan. His youthful exuberance made me think of how important it is that our local schools teach music and art. Our community needs to stand behind our schools in finding ways to have music and art education for all grade levels. We need more hot shot music educators like Mr. Franco at Globe High School. So, mindful folks in our community, jump on the bandwagon for music and art education, and let’s give our would be musicians and artists opportunities to develop their talent and skill. And speaking of educators, this leads right to Mr. Adam Creary, a Globe High science teacher, who is also a musician.

I had to chuckle as I thought of Adam. I thoroughly enjoy exchanging ideas with Adam. He makes me laugh, smile, and think. I always felt we held similar philosophies in education. Adam definitely wants to be approachable by his students, knowing that fostering community in the classroom, gives a beneficial boost to what students learn. And here he was at Vida playing with Josh Dobbs, a Globe High School student. I chuckled more as I thought of all the fun Adam and Josh seemed to be having. They power played Bob Dylan’s Knocking On Heaven’s Door, and Eric Clampton’s, I Feel Wonderful Tonight. I was thrilled to watch Josh and Adam and I hope to see them play again in the future.

As I continued to reflect of the events of the evening, I remembered how the place was filled with old friends, and potential new friends. I did take time from my note taking to talk to people. I had the pleasure to meet a very astute eleven year old, Sarah. She certainly had the vocabulary and soul of a poet. We conversed on a variety of subjects. She wanted to read a poem she had written, but it was getting late and she needed to leave. Perhaps she will read to a packed room in a future First Friday.

A young woman, Candice Hainey, accompanied by guitarist Ken Nandez, sang three moving hymns; Revelation Song, You’ll Come, and Hosanna. Her clear voice sang praises that received praise as well. And if my rewind is accurate, Amy Schugar played next. Amy has great stage presence. She involves the audience. Her strong bluesy voice and guitar, lifts everyone around her. She is a professional, and a pleasure to watch. I must of gotten lost in the moment, because my notes are a bit fuzzy as to who she was covering. I do know she sang the beautiful song by Susan Tadishy, Little by Little. I remembered feeling a sense of urgency building around this time. It was drawing near closing, but patrons and performers were holding tight after almost two hours of performances. There was still an eager expectation for more.

And more is what we got! Jim Vandine played next. Wow! Now there is someone who keeps the fellowship and camaraderie alive and well in our communities’ open mics and musical events. Jim attends most all the events. He speaks with everyone. He encourages musicians young and old. His lovely wife Gloria, photographs the performers then shares her pictures with them. They are a tireless dynamic duo for our community. I mused at how long I have listened and watched Jim with a great appreciation for his talent, and I really think it has been at least five years. Jim and Gloria, thank you! Jim sang the blues that night. A departure from his usual classic guitar. He played Albert King, and a great tune by ZZ Tops, Blue Jean Blues. Jim’s fingers worked hard with great effect. I like this new musical diversion.

Well I sucked it up and read next. I have to giggle when I think about reading my poetry. I have a greater empathy for all those that let their feelings of embarrassment go, and get up there and perform. I had fun, and I was glad Jared urged me to read. John Shultz was next. John doesn’t need any urging. It is obvious by listening to him sing his original songs that he is inspired to share his thoughts and talent. John sang, Great Creator, Grandma, and I Didn’t Know You. I was glad to see that John was still in town. He is looking for a home to rent, for himself and family. It is good to have new families moving here that support the fine life experiences that our community offers.

It must be winter, because Earl Knoob is back in town with our very own Copper Spike train. He dropped in to sing Anna on a Memory, All Time Woman, and Moon Glow Highway. Welcome back Earl. It is good to have you in town again. The evening had turned into night, and Jared took the mic as the dedicated Vida workers waited for the finale. Jared has been the perfect host, from rescuing the equipment to keeping the show going seamlessly. Jared has had a busy evening running First Friday, but as usual, he did it with a joke and a smile. Jared closed the evening recounting his 27th birthday experience. It is good to be alive. It was way past closing, so we only got a bit of Jared’s impromptu art of words and music. I was happy as I began to feel sleep encroaching upon me. I was honored to take part in an experience of town fellowship. Our town’s fellowship. A group of people who believe in and support the arts knowing that art is what elevates a town. Positive communal experiences that enrich, making life joyous and fun. Kudos to all those in our community who support the arts and our artists. We are a community that develops many varied artists. I know. I see it in all our schools, around our town, and events like this. The talent and future talent of our communities is something to be noticed. Our future is in our artists and thinkers. Somehow our area has been blessed with an abundance of talented individuals encompassing all means of art and thought. We should recognize this and promote these talents with opportunities for more cottage industries in our towns. Or, industry that need employees who are artists. It is time to think out of the box for our town. Time to recognize that our greatest financial reward for this town is in its people. Oh no! I almost started to get jazzed up again! I took a few meditative breaths reminding myself to never drink more than my share of espresso, ever. But I went to sleep with a smile on my face filled with the joyous togetherness of musicians, poets, and those that came to experience them. As I drifted off to sleep, my heart sang.

Kudos to those who are gutsy enough to get out there and share a bit of their soul. And kudos to all those that come out to support them. Great coffee, company, and fun.
Thanks to the Bakers and the friendly efficient staff of Vida E Cafe for creating a warm environment for these happenings.

Vida E Cafe First Friday Open Mic February Fourth
Jim Coates Picture Mine Cafe Second Friday Open Mic February Eleventh
Vida E Cafe Second Saturday February Twelfth
Does anyone know if the Second Saturday will have a love theme in honor of Valentine’s Day? Leave a comment. Help me promote community events by dishing on what is up and coming.

Hope to see you there!

By: LCGross

Several years ago I spent time in Alaska hiking the Resurrection Trail which stretches through 43 miles of wilderness and makes you forget all civilized notions of comfort and human-scale.

This is nature on a grand scale in all it’s glory. The trail head ends up just outside of Seward, Alaska, which is where my friends and I spent the last several days before flying back to sunny Arizona. The landscape everywhere you look in Alaska is breathtaking. That is, until you arrive in Seward, a town which was devastated in the ’60’s when a tsumi rolled in and sucked everything which man had built for the last hundred years back into the sea.

Seward re-built, but as you can imagine the re-building took on a more utilitarian approach.Concrete replaced wood and tilt-up buildings and tin sheds were erected quickly where once there had been ornate cornices, native stone buildings and wood porches.

Where once the town’s legacy involved character and content, lending a thread of continuity between the old and new, there is now function over form.

Historic Downtown Globe, Az still functions as the community's primary shopping and social hub

Coming this March, the Globe Miami Chamber of Commerce, will once again host a thousand visitors for Globe’s popular Historic Home and Building Tour.

Most locals consider it a ‘tourist event.’ Something for outsiders.  It certainly is well attended by visitors who flock to our little community to look at old homes and “try out” our small-town community for the weekend.

But consider for just a moment… what if Globe-Miami had a “Seward-Event” – something that wiped out all our old buildings and houses with their history, family ties and community character?

Just ask Seward  Alaska.  The old buildings represent a heritage that can never be replaced – once lost.

Whether you are a visitor or a local resident, be sure to put the Home Tour on your Calendar and help us celebrate the buildings – still standing.

27th Annual Globe Historic Home & Building Tour

March 5- 6th

9am – 3pm

Tour begins at Oak & Sycamore: Downtown Globe

For more information, please contact the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce   928-425-4495

The Historic District looking north. A majority of Globe's buildings were constructed between 1904-1916 during the boom days of Copper.

The Conductor calls Aaallll Aaboaard! for the afternoon train

The Globe Miami Times has teamed up with the Copper Spike Excursion Train and Cable One advertising to film a commercial for the new 2010-2011 Train Season. Thursday, Dean Seyfferle with Cable One was in town and spent a good part of the day shooting in the Depot, on the Train and North of Globe where the train winds its way through low desert scenery.

The 30-sec commercial is scheduled to run on CNN, Fox News, A& E for the next 5 months and will be seen by audiences from Apache Junction to Safford. It is part of GMT’s year-long ad campaign featuring the tag line :

“GlobeMiamiTimes and GMTeconnect  bringing Globe-Miami to you!” The Copper Spike ad will rotate with GMT’s latest testimonial ad: Community_2.

Filming inside the Old Depot

This will be the third full season of the Copper Spike and the first season they will be offering meal service on-board. The trip has been extended by a half hour, making each trip two hours long. A lunch menu is offered on the train 4 days a week, with a Dinner Car on Fridays and Saturdays. Bar service is now available.

The train brings in thousands of visitors to the Globe community each season and serves as an economic boost to the local shops, restaurants and hotels. With the addition of meal-service and new events it is anticipated to be another great season for all!

Globe Miami Times and GMTeconnect will be hosting an Events Page for the Copper Spike on their website to help visitors navigate the community while they are in town for the train. The new page will include special offers from local merchants and hotels for visitors riding the train, as well as local railroad history and how the Copper Spike came to be!

The Copper Spike makes it's way over the trestle at the south end of Broad street , Globe Az

Since launching its own website a year ago, GlobeMiamiTimes has seen traffic on the site increase every month. And Google now recognizes many of the feature articles and postings about the area because of the on-line presence of GMTeconnect.com. The site also includes a business directory with over 700 business where local businesses can list for free, or pay an annual fee for a host of services including a full business page and net-tools. Business owners such as Sarah Bernstein, who owns Simply Sarah’s, acknowledge the importance of having a web presence…even if she herself does not spend any time on-line.

Promoting good business and fun times in Globe-Miami. Come ride the Copper Spike and explore all there is to do and see in the area at gmteconnect.com

By: Linda Gross

The History of the Old Dominion Mine

The community of Globe-Miami was built on copper and the East Coast money which flocked here at the turn of the century to cash in on the rich bodies of copper ore. At one time there were over 35 operating mines around Globe and none were bigger than The Old Dominion Mine.

Photo by: Robert Fugate The head frame of the Old Dominion was dismantled in 2007, but a group of photographers led by Ohio Photographer, Bill Woody, was allowed on site months before the actual demolition. This photo by Bob Fugate accurately reflects the image of the Head Frame and pump house which inspired the Parks' logo.

Like mining in general, the Old Dominion had fits and starts as it came to life and passed through several owners. The Old Dominion company was originally a silver producer, but in the early ’1880′s erected a small copper furnace west of Globe to treat some ores found nearby. From 1876 – 1884 the “camp: produced about 21 million pounds of copper until the price of copper dropped to 9 3/4 cents and was closed down. Four years later, the price of copper ‘soared’ to 17 cents and the mines reopened.” (The Border. pp10. pub.1909)

“From 1899 -1905 the mine developed few new ore bodies and it was even thought that the supply would soon be exhausted. Yet, the discovery of a large ore body west of Globe, which would become Miami Copper, proved there was still much to be discovered in the area, and by 1906, under new management, the mining engineers with the Old Dominion discovered one of the largest low-grade ore deposits in the United States.” (The Border. pp10. pub.1909)

The mine was shut down in 1931 and has remained closed for nearly eighty years.

Large 4' x 4' Signage around the Park will provide visitors a glimpse into the regions rich mining history

A new future for an old mine:  A Historic Mine Park

The idea of a walking park on the Old Dominion property was first raised twenty years ago, but it wasn’t until 2003 that a committee was formed to seriously advance the idea and began working with all stakeholders including BHP,  the City of Globe, FreePort McMoran and

others. The small group which has lead the way on the project includes; Thea Wilshire , Mary Ann Moreno , Brandon Parker , and  Ellen Kretch. The group has succeeded in getting all the necessary permits and approvals which took over 7 years of wrangling with lawyers and stakeholder interests to arrive at an agreement on how the property would be used and what was permissible on the site.

Today, all of the site planning, design work, signage and ramadas have been done and are finally ready to put into place this Fall.

The Generosity of others in funding a Walking Park

The Womens Auxiliary to American Institute of Mining Engineers (WAAIME) presented a check for $2,000 to the Old Dominion Historic Park Committee to sponsor one of the educational signs for the park, which is scheduled to open Feb. 12, 2011. The donation is in memory of Laura Stover, a member of WAAIME and long time supporter of mining in the community. Receiving the check are Thea Wilshire (left), chair of the Old Dominion Historical Park Committee; Ellen Kretsch, ODMP committee member; Joanne Zache, WAAIME Pinal Mountain Section treasurer; and Mary Ann Moreno, WAAIME president.

The Park is made possible through the slow and steady persistence of this group in working through every obstacle. Funding for the site came from many sources including: $140,000in grant monies and donations; including a Govenors’ Rural Tourism Development grant for $140,000, $12,500 from BHP, $10,000 from Globe Rotary, $2,000 from the Rotary District, $2,000 from Gila Historical Musuem, $2,000 from WAIME, $2,500 from SME, $5,000 from MWH, $3,000 from FreePort McMoran, $1,000 from Resolution Copper and $5,800 from individuals.

Looking East at the head frame before it was dismantled in 2008

In addition, Wilshire says the group has received over $70,000 of ‘in kind’ services involving engineering and design.

The Park is slated to open February 12,2011 and promises to be a real draw for tourism, as well as local school groups, organizations and individuals.

The Old Dominion Historic Mine Park will be open from Dusk to Dawn…

The Old D logo courtesy of Tanner Hunsaker/ WesternReprographics.com

and involve approximately 3 miles of walking paths which will be marked by large 4′x4′ signs detailing the history and evolution of mining in the region. The Self-Guided tour will give the visitor a rich sense of the regions mining history including “evolving mining methods”, and the impact of railroads on the mining industry.

The entrance to the park will be up the road behind DeMarcos Italian Restaurant, off hwy 60, and will have a large area for parking, plus ramadas strategically placed throughout the park for enjoying the views, and getting out of the sun.

The following are some shots from the old Mine site. Photo Tags supplied by Brandon Parker.

Surrounded near and far by areas that have experienced demolition and reclamation, these 9 concentrate bins were left for historical preservation. Concentrate was loaded into the tops and a tunnel below allowed rail cars to receive a load of copper concentrate and take it to the smelter for further refining. Veiwable from Park Trails.

This is a remnant of the large concentrator building complex. A relic seen from travelors for decades, select pieces were removed and it has been fenced for safety, but allowed to remain for historic notation. Veiwable from Park Trails.

This is inside the “Hoist House” for the A-Shaft. The large spools of cable are powered to raise and lower multiple cables like a bank of highrise elevators. The Hoist house is not planned to be accessible to patrons of the future Walking Park.

By: Paul Woleterbeck

Labor Day Road Trip

Labor Day Weekend lures motorcycle riders to escape the Valley, heading to points east, and on Saturday morning, Sept. 4, Boyce Thompson Arboretum will open one hour early with a “Bikers’ Breakast” event as part of the Five+Dive Tour.
Don’t miss this singular chance for a morning ride and breakfast outdoors — complete with live Native American cedar flute music played by Chino Valley recording artist Joseph Leal (and Joe is a brother biker — he rides a Victory Kingpin 1700).

New Release

Joseph Leal will play at BTA for a Biker's Breakfast Photo by: AndrewHenry

Leal will celebrate the release of his new CD of Native American flute music by serenading fellow riders from 7:00-8:30 am in the picnic area at the Arboretum, giving motorcycle riders a place to stop before hitting the highway and continuing on to rallies, runs and roadtrips througout Arizona.

Pre-Registration for Breakfast

Pre-registration and prepayment of $10-per-bike (which includes up to two riders) is required for the Bikers’ Breakfast. Call 520-689-2723 day times from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to prepay (please call soon, the registration deadline is Aug. 28, one
week prior to the event). This event was arranged as part of the Summertime ‘Five-And-Dive’ promotion which offers admission discounts at Boyce Thompson Arboretum and restaurants, bars and other venues along scenic Highway 60 through Pinal and Gila Counties and well worth a day or weekend joy ride to attend.

The Map for Five and Dive covers Apache Junction to San Carlos, and north to Payson

The innovative Summertime tourism booster was created to motivate riders to get their motors running and head out on Highway 60 towards the historic copper-mining towns of Superior, Globe-Miami — then north around Roosevelt Lake.

Punch cards are available free at the Superstition Harley Davidson

Read complete details about participating vendors (and specials they’re offering) in this summer’s edition of the GlobeMiamiTimes. Five and Dive – Summer Zen. Or just Pick Up your now CARD…and hit the road.

Or catch them on FACEBOOK

BTA Gates Open at 7:00 AM  on Sept 4th
Sept. 4 the gates will open at 7:00 a.m., one hour early for participating, pre-registered bikers to kick-start Labor Day Weekend rides with a light breakfast accompanied by Joseph Leal’s live cedar flute music. His newest CD expands on Leal’s popular Native American style flute solos, adding arrangements with drum and didgeridoo, chanting and other instruments.
Fall/Winter/Spring schedule resumes September 1 when the Arboretum will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission of $7.50 for adults and $3 ages 5-12 includes most weekend nature walks. Arboretum staff suggest visitors phone ahead to verify event dates/times. Call the recorded message phone at 520-689-2811, or call staff during daytime business hours at 520-689-2723. Up-to-date information  is always online at ag.arizona.edu/bta; and you can connect with Arboretum staff, volunteer tour guides and annual members at facebook.com/boycethompsonarboretum.

Get your punch cards at these locations:

Apache Junction: Superstition Harley Davidson

Globe: The Huddle Sports Bar, 2 Lanes Bar, The Drift Inn

Roosevelt: Butcher Hook

Tonto Basin: Jakes Corner Bar

Get your Clues, Weekly Updates on the Tour

GLOBE MIAMI TIMES Website has an Events Page for the Tour & Links to

FIVE AND DIVE FACEBOOK PAGE

Sign up for the Email: We have put an Email Opt-In sign up on the Front Page of GMT econnect.com. Put in your email on the left-hand side and hit Submit.  You’ll get an email every week with the Clues and Weekly Info for the Tour. EMails come out Thursday Night.

It’s a fact that Arizona Summers are sizzling hot and, as a rule, most sane people will spend the next six months in a mall or on their couch in air-conditioned comfort in front of their Big Screen.

Not Bikers. Bikers are always breaking the rules.

Few things in life will keep one from riding. They’re like those mail carriers who brag:

Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stay us from the swift completion of our appointed rounds”

Bikers? They have a different motto.

“Whatever it is, it’s better in the wind.”

So, this summer, long after the last of the winter visitors have left for cooler climes, and even lizards have disappeared under their rocks to get away from the heat, we’ve designed a Summer Road Tour for The Children of the Wind.

Five and Dive Summer Tour 2010

We call it the Five and Dive and we hope to heat things up (economically) this summer while offering you some cool reasons to ride our roads, meet our people, drink our beer and have a good time. We’re offering up specials to help you save money – while spending money; good causes to help you add to your lifetime-karma points; and clues, riddles and scavenger hunts to introduce you to things you never knew you wanted to know about us – but now you do.

We initially called the tour the Five and Dime which was a nod to our incredible array of cheap thrills and lo-cost fun throughout this region. It also tied in with our feature on Woolworths. (One of those things you’ll want to pay attention to because it is the answer to a clue)

The Open Road at Roosevelt

But then one of our friends suggested the Five and Dive, over beers at The Huddle. And aren’t all ideas better with beer?  It’s seemed tailor-made for what we were putting together. Of course, I now have to pay Gerry royalties for coming up with the idea. (You can help me out by stopping by Pinal Lumber this summer and picking up a few nails, screws, wood, paint,… whatever you can fit on the bike.)

So, back to the meaning of the Five and Dive.

Did you know the spiritual meaning of number Five deals with travel, adventure, and motion?

According to this woman who runs a site, whats-your-sign.com, she goes on to say that Five “draws our attention to the wonder of life, and beckons us to appreciate the perception of chaos all around us. Five has wild vibrations: primitive and erratic.”

There has got to be a FIVE hidden inside every biker.

Really. Just log on and take a look at what the number two means for instance. You’ll see clearly why TWO does not work here. We could not have a Two and Dive Tour. Wouldn’t work.

And Dive? Well, I don’t have to explain that right?

So, now that I have your attention… let me explain how the Tour works.

It includes a punch card with over 30 merchants and local events throughout this region who invite you to stop in this summer. They have each come up with a special promo just for Tour Riders with punch cards and in exchange for dropping some cash along the way – remember this is an economic stimulus plan – you’ll get your card stamped, a big welcome from these merchants and a good reason to ride!  OK, maybe more – but you’ll have to do the Tour to discover what it is.

The Road Map at Superstition Harley Davidson

As for the clues and the scavenger hunts, we’re going to give you FIVE chances each week to solve a clue, riddle or scavenger hunt which will require some collective brain power. Solving these will result in earning our cool wooden nickels (don’t believe what your father said about not taking wooden nickels.*) worth points towards raffle tickets. Plus, as an added bonus, you’ll discover the inside jokes, arcane facts and local lore which will put you one step closer to being
“one of us.”

(*Even if you don’t “tweet”, check out the hottest Twitter account about Father’s advice. The account is Sh** My Dad Says. The author is a 29 year old, living with his 74 year old dad, who just started tweeting the things he said. He has now published a book & been on Larry King. Here is one from last week: “No. Humans will die out. We’re weak. Dinosaurs survived on rotten flesh. You got diarrhea last week from a Wendy’s.”)

OK, back to the Tour.

To begin, you can pick up the Tour Punch Cards at these FIVE locations beginning June 15th. Cards are $5….
(OMG – there is that number 5 again. Must be a sign!). Superstition Harley is waiving the fee for any riders who come into the Dealership to pick up the card!

Ohter locations include:

The Huddle Sports Bar, The Drift Inn, or 2 Lanes Saloon in Globe,

The Butcher Hook, or Jakes Corner up in Tonto Basin.

You can get your weekly CLUES/RIDDLES by going to globemiamitimes.com

Here you’ll find our EVENTS PAGE  and a link to our FACEBOOK PAGE.
Your first tip of the Tour…..  Bookmark these pages.

Since Globe Miami Times is sponsoring this Tour, we have designed it so you will read the paper, check out the website and – get to know us better during the Five and Dive.  You’ll discover answers to clues by looking at the ads in this summer’s edition, reading the stories and following the links on our website. Interesting Mr. Watson. Is this a plot to corrupt the mind? You decide.

Overlook of the Valley between Globe and Miami

Now for the pay off.  Yes, there will be prizes and good things given away to the deserving. But remember what Robert Pirsig said, in his cult classic, “Zen and the Art of Motorcycling”

“The only Zen you find on tops of mountains is the Zen you bring there.”
See you this Summer!

By: Jim Moss

Musician and Mexican American, Little Joe, apparently evaded an Arizona law enforcement round-up of suspected illegal aliens after Globe’s big Cinco de Mayo celebration last Sunday night.  While on stage with his band, Little Joe y la Familia, Joe publicly acknowledged that he was born in Texas to parents who were illegal immigrants.  After admitting this, Little Joe peered out into the darkness, above the audience, perhaps expecting legal repercussions — in this latest era of Arizona disgraceful politics.
Remember Arizona’s recent past disgraces?  Martin Luther King Holiday rejection, Governors Evan Mecham & Fife Symington?  Well, the recently hatched immigration law takes the cake!  This law represents a new low for right-wing ideology in Arizona politics.  What an embarrassment for our great state!   This law actually requires law enforcement officers to confront any person who is suspected of being an illegal alien — and demand proof of citizenship.  What is the criteria used to determine if a ‘suspected illegal alien’ should be confronted?  Rest assured, this blonde-haired, blue-eyed white boy(me) is not a suspect.

How about we call sin by its right name — racial profiling IS the criteria. Brown skin, Latin language, Hispanic appearance…  Why can’t Republicans and racists (I am not asserting that ALL Repubs are racist) just state plainly and publicly that racial profiling is a legitimate law enforcement tool.  They believe it.  So-called ‘conservatives’ like to scoff at the notion of ‘political correctness’ — so, why are they cowardly about their belief in racial profiling?  Shame on our Arizona Republican Legislators and Governor!  What hypocrites and cowards!  How dare they try to mask racial profiling as a benign, legitimate tool to stop illegal immigration!

Little Joe interjected a bit of American History during Saturday night’s musical fiesta when he playfully suggested that the wall being erected on the Mexico/U.S. border should have been built 400 years ago by Native Americans…to keep out the illegal European immigrants who brought violence, disease, & devastation to a continent.

This new Arizona law is an overreaction to a problem that has been festering for decades, but has come to a boil during extremely tough economic times in the USA.  Inevitably there are scapegoats.

The solution is NOT racial profiling.  The solution is NOT to violate our constitutionally protected civil liberties.

As one listens to the music and life story of Little Joe, it reminds of the contribution of immigrants to American life — and, it deepens the  realization that each of us descended from folks that were once-upon-a-time called ‘immigrants’ — perhaps illegal to boot.  If Governor Brewer could trace her family tree back to the Mayflower immigrants,  she would be a descendant of boat people willing to risk everything in search for a better life.  Colonists during the 17th Century — some of America’s earliest illegal immigrants — are also our history book heroes!

Instead of resorting to the unconstitutional act of racial profiling to fix illegal immigration, we, as a society who claim superiority in upholding human/civil rights, should be looking for solutions that respect individual dignity and protects civil liberties.

Such a comprehensive immigration plan was crafted a couple years back by U.S. Senators John McCain and Ted Kennedy.  Yes, this was back when McCain was sort of the ‘Maverick’ he claimed to be.  Today, McMaverick has flip-flopped in trying to prove that his ‘conservative’ credentials are superior to primary election opponent, J.D. Hayworth.  A show of true statesmanship by McCain might have moderated Arizona’s Republican Legislature and Governor.  Not to be.  McCain sold his soul to the Right.  Arizona legalized racial profiling.

In an attempt to find a silver lining, some citizens say that just maybe this radical immigration law will force Uncle Sam to finally address the ‘border problem’.  To that, I say — we must never sacrifice civil liberties for political expediency.  Rational solutions to deal with illegal immigration exist.  The question is — do we have the decency and political will to enact constitutional, comprehensive immigration reform?

Just like Little Joe y la Familia — hispanic citizens all across Arizona who continue to serve their country during war or peace — have been put on notice to be ready to show proof of American citizenship.  Racial profiling leads to second-class citizenship.  So, stand tall Arizonans — brown, black, red & white — be like Little Joe!  Fight discrimination by educating & inspiring fellow citizens to join you in VOTING OUT OF OFFICE every single politician who supported the legalization of racial profiling in Arizona.

Viva Little Joe y la Familia!

Javier Reynoso and his 'dancing horses' performed on Saturday

By Linda Gross

The Tex Mex Festival 2010 held at Globe’s Community Center did not have a shortage of great entertainment during the two day event. From Reynoso’s performance with his dancing horses, to the powerful performances by three Mariachi bands from Phoenix and Tucson, the colorful and well executed dancing of Ballet Folklorico tenochtitlan, the latin sound of New Frequency and, of course the two headlining bands: Tierra and Little Joe Y Familia, those in attendance were treated to teriffic performances!

As the City’s first Big Scale event in which they partnered with Los Vecinos De Companeros to put up the $32,000 for the headliner bands, and covered the costs of staging and managing a large scale event they showed it could be done. Matt Jankowski, Parks and Recreation Manager, and his team did a commendable job of setting up a large-scale facility at the Community Center. If thousands had shown up this weekend  they could easily have been accommodated at this facility. As it was, only hundreds attended the events both days with the majority of the crowds showing up for the bands – despite very low temperatures and high winds.

That is a risk of staging large outdoor events.

Mother Nature isn’t always on board with your plans. Last April/May at this time, we had 70deg weather and clear skies. Go Figure.

One of the event attendees for Saturday’s Little Joe Y Familia event was surprised at the small crowd, but wondered if the huge protests against Arizona’s immigration bill which were being held in Phoenix and Tucson, could have been a contributing cause for the low numbers. “I know several of my friends who were going to spend the weekend in Globe, decided it was more important to show their support for the protests.”

Mariach Sol Azteca from Tucson played both days. Representing the traditional music of Mexico which so many associate with Cinco de Mayo

And, then there is the aspect of change. The City and Los Vecinos de Companeros took the local celebration of Cinco de Mayo which had been held in downtown Globe for free and re-designed it into a large-scale event with the hopes it would actually bring in money to both the City and LVC. Billed as a Tex-Mex Festival the target audience appeared to shift from down-home to outta-town. There was some local push back to the Event which many felt was an over-reach for the community. Some felt the ticket prices were too high: $30 day/$50 for two days. Some felt Tex-Mex didn’t represent ‘their kind of music, or festival. Some just felt the show was for out of towners – not locals.

Yet, watching the performances during both days, visitors must have been struck by the variety of performances and the mix of traditional with contemporary expressions of Mexican culture. From the rhythym and blues sounds of Tierra on Friday night to the rich violins and voices of Mariachi Sol Azteca, the sounds of what it is to be Hispanic were showcased by some outstanding musical talent. From the Reynoso’s who showcased their horses and roping talent to the wonderful performances by Ballet Foklorico tenochititlan the rich history – which is Mexico- was well represented!

Ballet Folklorico tenochititlan performed several numbers to the crowds delight.

The comment of one visitor said they thought the ticket prices were reasonable…especially since all the food booths and beer were “cheap.” Unlike some events where the food and drink prices are jacked up because of a captive audience, the food vendors of Globe-Miami offered up good fare at good prices!

The presentation of the La Reina de Las Flores Queens and Contestants occurred under clear skies and each of the ladies are to be commended for their achievements and performance at Saturday’s event.

Ballet Folklorico tenochtitlan showcased a variety of dances and dresses!

Queens & Contestants

Talking to Globe’s Mayor, Fernando Shipley, about what he might do differently next year, he said he would begin the Festival on Saturday, since people are working on Friday and most can’t even think of showing up until they get off work.

There are other considerations which will surely be a part of the wrap up discussion regarding better signage, more advertising outside the area and coordination with local merchants, but this should not take away from the fact that many things went right with this event.

Globe proved that we do have an excellent “staging area” for a truly large-scale event and we have the people who can pull it off. Had the crowds been larger, an event of this type can bring in money and become a well-recognized asset for this community. It can be an event which smoozes locals and outta-towners alike and celebrates the Mexican culture which is not just one thing – but a huge melting pot of many expressions. It can be an event for all. And that would be something worth celebrating.

(PS: For more photographs on the Festival please visit Globe Miami Times Facebook.)