Mother Nature seems intent on teasing us this year with roller coaster temperatures. Triple digits hit this past Sunday with a high of 105. Monday broke the previous record with a searing heat of 110. A record of 108 was projected for Tuesday, with a slight cool down on Wednesday to 90, with a reprieve expected as we head into the Memorial weekend. The current forecast calls for highs in the mid 80's and a chance of thunderstorms into Saturday.

This coming weekend is a time for remembering those who gave their lives for their country and for our freedom. Let us take a moment to pause and reflect on those freedoms we enjoy and all too often take for granted.

Speaking of Memorial weekend, didn't we just celebrate New Year's? I can't believe we're almost halfway through the year!

Local veterans will have something to cheer about with the opening of the new Globe-Miami VA Healthcare Clinic near Cobre Valley Community Hospital. The facility, previously housed in a mobile unit at the VFW now has a complete staff and regular weekly hours. More information is contained in this week's feature article.

The other feature article offers information on the opening of another new clinic in the Payson area. StatClinix will open on Thursday, May 29, 2008 (one week from tomorrow) and will offer state-of-the-art technology, seven days a week at the urgent care facility. This clinic guarantees "StatCare in 30-minutes!"

Summer is obviously here with the return of triple digits - so enjoy the cool refreshing water of beautiful Roosevelt Lake and until next issue . . . take care.   back...