Pima named best HS Band in Graham County Fair Parade

SAFFORD — Pima High School has bragging rights for the next 12 months.

The Pima High School marching band was named Best High School Marching Band in the 2025 Graham County Fair Parade Friday, and received the F. Phil Stuermer Cup.

It was only the second win for Pima since the trophy was started in 2012, and the first win since 2021.

“It shows that we worked hard and that we earned it,” said PHS Drum Major Hope Perez.

The Pima High School Marching Band performed the song “Thriller” for the judges and the crowd at the 2025 Graham County Fair Parade.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

The parade, down Safford’s Main Street, featured 31 entries, as well as numerous entries and floats from elected officials that participate outside of judging.

Jim and Celinda Palmer served as grand marshals for the 2025 Graham County Fair Parade in Safford on Friday.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

Judges for this year’s parade were Linda Bennett, Tricia Garrett and Tim Linden; and parade winners will be announced on the Graham County Fair website at a later date.

The Thatcher High School Marching Band walks past the judges reviewing stand at the 2025 Graham County Fair Parade on Friday.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

F. Phil Stuermer Cup Winners

2012 — Safford High School
2013 — Safford High School
2014 — Safford High School
2015 — Safford High School
2016 — Safford High School
2017 — Safford High School
2018 — No competition
2019 — Thatcher High School
2020 — No competition
2021 — Pima High School
2022 — Safford High School
2023 — Safford High School
2024 — Safford High School
2025 — Pima High School

The Safford High School Marching Band plays the “Theme from Star Wars” at the Graham County Fair Parade Friday, Oct. 10, 2025.
– David Bell Photo/Gila Valley Central

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