Payson Roundup

Many know him as “America’s Toughest Sheriff” — a name given to him years ago by the media. It’s a name he certainly has earned as head of the nation’s third largest sheriff’s department, which employs more than 3,000 people. But even before he became Maricopa County Sheriff in 1993, Joe Arpaio was one tough lawman, says a press release.

He began his career as a federal narcotics agent, establishing a stellar record in infiltrating drug organizations from Turkey to the Middle East to Mexico, Central, and South America to cities around the U.S.

In 1992 Arpaio successfully campaigned to become the sheriff of Maricopa County. Since then he has been re-elected to an unprecedented five four-year terms.

During his tenure as sheriff of Maricopa County, Arpaio has consistently earned extraordinarily high public approval ratings.

The Gila County Republican Committee will have “Sheriff Joe” as its guest speaker at its Lincoln Day Luncheon on Thursday, Feb. 11. The luncheon is at 11:30 a.m. at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260 in Payson.

Tickets are $25. No tickets will be sold at the door.

For tickets call: Anne Ascoli, 928-474-8545; Sally Low, 928-474-9779; Pat Roberson, 928-479-3163; or Jeff Loyd, 928-478-8155.