Green Valley Safety Fair launches week-long effort

The Green Valley Safety Fair on Saturday kicked off Safety Awareness week with an arsenal of eye-pleasing exhibits.

From the Optimist Club of Green Valley serving up burgers and hot-dogs to the Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers providing safety tips of all kind—there was an abundance knowledge and fun up for absorption at the Desert Hill Center.

Jon Jonas, a pilot with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, landed a beautiful Bell 407 helicopter in the middle of the festival to the delight of many youngsters.

“The goal of these helicopters are to assist law enforcement, help with search and rescue and provide emergency medical services,” Jonas said.

Duty called and the spiffy chopper took off after only 20 minutes at the fair.

There were many other toys on display for the old and young alike.

Ryan Hickey, of Green Valley, who is “9 and three-fourths,” had eyes the size of silver dollars when he had the chance to get inside of a intimidating PCSD BearCat Armored Vehicle.

Peggy Pierce, of a Green Valley resident of 12 years, attended the fair for the first time. “I came out to get information on safety for my granddaughter,” she said while picking up some coloring books on fire safety and prevention.

“I also came so that I could meet my new congresswoman,” Pierce said.

She got her chance as Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was standing nearby at the Pima County Sheriff’s booth discussing gun safety with officers and onlookers.

“I do own a 9mm Glock, and it is at home locked up in a safe,” Giffords said.

Other exhibits at the fair were put on by Green Valley Bike & Hike, the Green Valley Fire Department and Duval Animal Hospital.

Safety Awareness Week runs through Feb. 2. and includes a zero tolerance policy. Last year, law enforcement departments issued 325 traffic tickets and made five DUI arrests during the week—so all drivers beware.

amackey@gvnews.com | 547-9726