It takes a village, they say; in Yarnell, Glen Ilah and Peeples Valley, it’s so true! It has been quite a journey since the 2013 fire. So many wonderful things have transpired in spite of the heartbreak. Homes have been rebuilt, new relationships have been solidified, new events have come to fruition; additionally, the Chamber of Commerce has become more active. The Yarnell Fire District has an administration building and is actively recruiting volunteers. New training programs are being utilized. This community is the icon of hope.
That endurance and hope does not come without the sacrifice of many. Obviously, 19 firefighters gave their lives – the ultimate sacrifice. But since then, many in Yarnell have sacrificed hours upon hours of their time and effort to aid in rebuilding, restructuring, and reassuring. That is exactly the reason Chuck Tidey, Chamber of Commerce President and Yarnell Hill Recovery Group Chair, was named Citizen of the Year by the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department. It was his full time and constant overtime labor, a dedication to the people, that earned him that honor. He’s not the only one who poured himself into it, but as the leader, he truly earned that award.
There are people who are embittered, and understandably so. They’ve lost so much, and are having difficulties adjusting to the changes that have taken place since the loss. Who can blame them? People grieve in different ways and on different time frames. Loss of any kind changes the status quo. But healing will fully come to them.
When you think of Yarnell, what comes to mind? Lou and I think of the beauty. Every morning we drink our coffee and look across at the mountainous views from the kitchen window. We think of the amazing hiking trails, the change of seasons, the inordinate amount of events held here, and all the possibilities. Having come from the East Coast, and many of you as well have lived elsewhere, I can attest to the fact that no matter the troubles here, we are all blessed to reside in this area of the country and this region in Arizona.
Focus on the things you love, the friends you have made, the beauty of the nature around you and tell us (by commenting below) what this small town means to you. I’ll enjoy reading your musings!
Yarnell, Glen Ilah and Peeples Valley have formed an amazing Community as noted by many visitors and locals. The energy and dedication of the residents of this group of small towns keeps it hopping every week. I personally feel my life is blessed by being a part of this lovely mountaintop community.
I think Yarnell is RICH in the number of talented people here: craftsman, artists, musicians, gardeners, decorators… I love the variety pack we have here, and I’m inspired by the goodness, humor and talent that crop up everywhere.
Agree it is important to focus on the beauty, the positive and move on. Life is too short as has been proven.