In a specialty store in Gilbert, the checkout clerk heard I was from Globe, stopped her work, and incredulously asked, “Why?” As we talked, it became clear she thought there was nothing to do here. I explained there’s actually so much to do, you can’t possibly do it all.  This is particularly true in the fall and spring when our weather is perfect and events proliferate.  “Globetrotting” is a monthly column that covers the many places, events, resources, and activities I love about the Globe-Miami-San Carlos region. To invite participation and to honor the countless volunteers who organize these events, I focus this month on a few of my favorites among our many wonderful fall choices.

This is the second year we will be treated to Old Dominion Days (September 11-14, Gila County Museum), a series of mostly free events organized by the Gila County Historical Society. I am planning to attend as many activities as I can among the tours, meals, concerts, historical lectures, kids’ day, and more that celebrate our rich mining heritage.

Because I love art house and foreign films, I’m thrilled the Independent Film Club meets every third Sunday of each month at the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts for a thought-provoking movie and discussion. This event is sponsored by Globe-Miami Times and starts at 6 p.m. (enter from the elevator on Broad St.). October will be particularly memorable as we will host Mountainfilm on Tour, an international film festival that visits 180 locations showing a mix of inspirational short films. Amazingly, San Carlos-Globe-Miami is one of two Arizona stops, likely earning the honor because of Doug Miles and his film on San Carlos Apache skater culture.  Plan on attending Oct. 18 at Miami High School (note: this is the only time the film club will meet on a different day at an alternative location).

The 50^th annual Gila County Fair (September 19-22) is always interesting. I like the exhibits, rodeo and bronc riding, salsa contest and beef cook-off, and am particularly interested in watching the newly added dog agility contest that will highlight our 4H kids and their work training their canines for this exhibit.

One of my favorite experiences of the year is Apache Ji’i (Oct. 19, downtown Globe) when we celebrate the richness brought to our community by our Apache friends and neighbors.  With artisans displaying jewelry, beading, basketry, and other crafts, there are countless treasures available at affordable prices.  I recommend staying to enjoy the musicians and dancers who perform throughout the day.

The Cobre Valley Foundation’s Annual Art and Wine Auction will be on Oct. 25 (Gila County Fairgrounds).  With a different theme every year, the space is magically transformed into a delightful venue filled with pageantry and opportunities to support the Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center by purchasing local art.  Plan to enjoy a Mardi Gras Masquerade this year.

I don’t know how Globe became the Halloween capital of the state, but we celebrate this holiday in spades. Come watch the thousands of dressed-up kids, adults, and dogs trick-or-treating on Broad Street; get a kick out of the costume contests and street dancing; and take the fascinating Ghosts of Globe Tour (usually held a few days before Oct. 31).

Finally, there’s a good chance our bi-annual Dogtoberfest Celebration may return to celebrate all things dog:  walks, vendors and booths, photos, small dog races, costume contests, service dog demonstrations, and more.  This event is a blast and not-to-be-missed.

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