From Backyard to Global Stage: Elevating Arizona’s Rural Legacy through Small Business, Collaboration, and Social Media
- Kate Mayeski
- May 28
- 6 min read
By Kate Mayeski Transparency Note: This article is not sponsored or supported by any of the organizations, companies, or public agencies mentioned. I currently have no financial ties to Resolution Copper, the Towns of Superior or Apache Junction, or any related entities. Everything shared here is based on my own research, conversations with local leaders, and a deep commitment to telling the real stories behind rural Arizona’s growth and grit.
What started as a personal passion project—spotlighting the grit and heart of Arizona’s small towns—has become something much bigger: a community-powered push for regional revitalization. I’m based in East Mesa, but my car practically drives itself to Apache Junction, Superior, Globe, and Miami these days. These towns? They’re full of history, hope, and potential. And half the time, their magic is hidden even from the folks who live there.
After sitting down recently with civic leaders from Apache Junction and Superior, one thing became clear: the future of rural Arizona isn’t going to be handed to us. We’ve got to build it—together—and in a way that honors our roots while creating room for smart, sustainable growth.
A Moment of Historic Shift
The U.S. Supreme Court’s dismissal of a Native American lawsuit tied to the Resolution Copper mine marks a major turning point—legally, economically, and culturally.
For towns like Superior and the surrounding areas, this mine means thousands of new jobs during the construction phase alone. That also means a sharp rise in demand for housing, public safety, and infrastructure. It’s a big swing moment, and leaders like Mayor Mila Besich of Superior and Mayor Chip Wilson of Apache Junction aren’t taking it lightly.
Mayor Besich and the Superior leader's feelings are clear. They don’t want to lose their character, but they do want to grow with intention. That means being part of the conversation now—not when the dust settles.
The stakes go beyond economics. They go straight to the soul of these places. The collective memory—from mining busts to multi-generational families who’ve stayed through it all—deserves respect and recognition.
For a comprehensive overview of the Resolution Copper project, including its history, economic implications, and the cultural significance of Oak Flat, refer to the Resolution Copper Project and Land Exchange Draft Environmental Impact Statement. This document provides detailed information on the proposed mining operations and their potential impacts on the environment and indigenous communities.
The Resolution Copper project has the potential to supply up to 25% of the projected future U.S. copper demand, making it one of the largest copper mines in North America. However, this development comes with significant cultural and environmental concerns. Wendsler Nosie Sr., former chairman of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, emphasized the sacredness of Oak Flat, stating, “Oak Flat is like Mount Sinai to us—our most sacred site where we connect with our Creator, our faith, our families, and our land” (source). The mining operation could result in the creation of a massive crater, potentially destroying this sacred ceremonial ground.
Arizona Small Businesses as Cultural Anchors
Let’s zoom in. Superior and Apache Junction aren’t just scenic stops along the US-60. They’re living proof that small business is how culture survives—and how economies evolve.
Whether it’s Bella’s downtown, the Bruzzi wine tasting room, or a welding course at the Rebuild Superior Enterprise Center, these towns are showing that real economic development isn’t just about scale. It’s about soul.
And yet, tourism is down. Word is that Arizona is seeing a 20% drop year-over-year, and towns like Superior—population ~2,500—are feeling it. Fewer Canadian snowbirds are renewing memberships to local gems like Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Mayor Besich nailed it: “We’re everyone’s backyard to recreate in.” But backyard charm alone doesn’t keep the lights on. Towns are looking for ways to spark consistent, year-round engagement.
This dip in Canadian visitors isn’t just local gossip. It’s national. Thanks to a weaker Canadian dollar, new immigration rules like the 30-day registration and fingerprinting requirement, and overall geopolitical tension, snowbirds are rethinking their winter migration. The Arizona Office of Tourism reported that Canadian visitors spent $775 million in 2023—with snowbirds contributing an estimated $1.4 billion annually. Yet 75% of them say they’re cutting back or canceling future trips.
Collaboration is the New Infrastructure
At a recent roundtable with regional leaders like Ryan Kaup (Apache Junction), Todd Pryor (Superior), and Manuel Guzman (Rebuild Superior), the vibe was clear: we’re not competitors—we’re collaborators.
Superior leans heavily on nonprofits like Rebuild Superior to bring in grants, launch workforce programs, and move quickly where public funding can’t. These orgs are scrappy and smart—but they’re stretched thin. Admin costs often aren’t covered. Staffing is tight. But the impact? Huge.
Superior Town Manager Todd Pryor brought up one of the biggest operational challenges ahead: scaling police and fire services to match population growth driven by the mine’s construction. And this isn’t just a Superior problem. Labor shortages in public safety are nationwide.
Now is the time for neighboring towns to co-plan and share resources—before the growth hits full force.
And let's not ignore the reality: federal funding has been unpredictable at best. No matter where you fall politically, we’ve all felt the shortfall. The path forward is going to require a new wave of private investors, foundations, and corporate partners who care about rural Arizona and are ready to show up for it.
The Role of Chambers and Social Media
Chambers of commerce are already connecting entrepreneurs with tourists, investors, and each other. But the ones really making waves? They’re acting more like content studios than static institutions.
Social media isn’t fluff—it’s infrastructure. When used right, it becomes a digital Main Street. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube let us highlight small wins, teach newcomers, and tell stories that build real economic momentum.
Apache Junction’s new LinkedIn presence and economic development slide deck? It’s just the beginning of what’s possible when local government meets digital strategy.
Building Without Erasing
Here’s the big question: how do we grow without erasing what makes us… us?
The answer? Thoughtful storytelling, inclusive planning, and a relentless commitment to protecting the weird, wonderful, gritty charm of these towns.
Yes, we need infrastructure. But we also need jukeboxes and wood-frame homes and shops that still take cash. We need the places that make people feel like they belong—even if they’ve just rolled in for a weekend hike.
And yeah, the road work is annoying. But it’s a growing pain we can live with. A 30-minute drive that takes 45? Worth it for the views, the local coffee, and the temp drop once you hit Superior or Globe. In the summer, that 10-degree difference? That’s our version of air conditioning.
What Comes Next
The next decade will define the Copper Corridor.
Whether Resolution Copper kicks off next year or not, housing, tourism, and water access are all up for negotiation. But the blueprint for what’s next won’t be found in D.C. It’s being written right now—in roundtables, local businesses, and community centers.
This isn’t just economic development. This is cultural preservation disguised as progress. And it starts in places like Superior and Apache Junction, where memory and momentum are working side by side.
Want to be part of Arizona’s next chapter?
This isn’t just about growth—it’s about protecting legacies. If you care about preserving the stories, soul, and small businesses that define rural Arizona, now’s the time to act. Whether through sponsorship, event collaboration, or community storytelling, your support can make a lasting impact.
Book time with Kate Mayeski today to explore how you can help elevate these towns to the global stage.
Let’s build the future—without erasing the past.
Comments