Contributed article
SAFFORD — The Graham County Chamber of Commerce is sharing the educational journey of Gila Valley Leadership Cohort 17, with the group’s latest session focusing on agriculture.
On Thursday, March 2, Cohort 17 visited with Randy Norton, director of the University of Arizona Safford Agricultural Center, and local farmer, Sam Daley, to learn more about the importance of cotton for Gila Valley small business owners and the wider economy.
Cohort 17 also visited Our Neighbor’s Farm and Pantry in Safford to discuss the growing garden used to feed those in need.
After lunch, the group traveled to Willcox to discuss agriculture with Willcox Town Manager Caleb Blaschke. Following this introduction and discussion, the group toured Tirito Farm, where they watched a dairy cow give birth to a calf, which they named Graham.
After Tirito Farm, the group toured the Naturesweet Tomato Farm.
“It was an excellent experience for Cohort 17,” said Vance Bryce, executive director of the Commerce, “The group experienced how agriculture impacts the Gila Valley, and were able to understand the agriculture piece of government funding in Willcox as well.”
The Gila Valley Leadership program is a 10-month, monthly leadership and professional development program led by the Graham County Chamber of Commerce, City of Safford, Town of Thatcher, Town of Pima, Graham County, and Eastern Arizona College. Delegates enrolled in the program have the opportunity to build relationships with community members and leaders, develop teamwork, organizational and collaborative skills.
They are also given the opportunity to tour many of the institutions that make the Gila Valley community’s wheels turn.
