The Safford Lions Club and City of Safford presented the awards for the judges' selections in the Gila Valley 250 Independence Day Parade, during a short ceremony at the Safford Annex on THursday, July 9, 2026.
- David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
SAFFORD — The Safford Lions Club and City of Safford presented the awards to the Gila Valley 250 Independence Day Parade winners during a short ceremony Thursday at the City Hall Annex.
Most Patriotic — Residents of Eden
The residents of Eden received the Most Patriotic Award for their entry in the Gila Valley 250 Independence Day Parade, sponsored by the Safford Lions Club. Pictured are, from left, Safford City Council Member Alma Flores, Eden residents Lynne and Vernon Perry, Charlie Martin with the Safford Lions Club, Jay and Brenda Colvin of Eden, Lions Club members Jon Stewart and Michelle Wilson, and Safford Vice Mayor Arnold Lopez. – David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Most Creative — Bark Avenue Paw Spa
The Most Creative Award was presented to Bark Avenue Paw Spa. Pictured are, from left, Charlie Martin with Safford Lions Club; Adam Rossow, Brittney Rossow and Remi with Bark Avenue; Jon Steward and Michelle Wilson with Safford Lions Club; and Safford City Council members Alma Flores and Arnold Lopez. – David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Best Use of Theme — Masonic Family of the Gila Valley
The Masonic Family of the Gila Valley won the award for Best Use of Theme. Pictured are, from left, Charlie Martin and Jon Stewart with the Safford Lions Club, John Ratje with the Masonic Family, Safford Lions Club’s Michelle Wilson, and Safford City Council members Alma Flores and Arnold Lopez. – David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
Best Youth Entry — 4-H
Local members of 4-H received the Best Youth Entry award. Pictured are, from left, Charlie Martin and Jon Stewart with Safford Lions Club; Quade Brawley, Taos Brawley and Nate Brawley with 4-h; Safford Lions Club’s Michelle Wilson; Doris Kempton with 4-H; Safford Vice Mayor Arnold Lopez; and Safford Council Member Alma Flores. – David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central
