Superior residents know OMYA as the local firm that operates the gleaming white factory about a mile east of the Arboretum on Highway 60. But you may not know just what employees manufacture inside. Ask Janeen Duarte or other engaging OMYA staff and they’ll explain that OMYA processes calcium carbonate for the food and pharmaceutical industries. OMYA has been a leading employer in Superior since the plant opened in ‘Y2K,’ and demonstrates community investment in a variety of ways throughout the year. OMYA is a corporate-level sponsor of the Arboretum — and invites Superior residents to come explore the gardens and trails on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2015 – and to stop by OMYA’s booth for a hotdog, chips and a drink.
“As a corporate member of the Arboretum, our goal is to encourage more residents of Superior to join, too – so we’re sponsoring a membership drive, and OMYA will pay half for all Superior residents who buy their annual membership at BTA on Saturday,” said Duarte. Superior residents already get a bargain rate through BTA’s “good neighbor” half-price membership level, meaning a family can enjoy the gardens for a full year for just $35. Join this Saturday, and that price is halved. “There’s so much to see at the Arboretum,” said Duarte, “by early November the trees are changing color along the trails – BTA is famous for fall color in their pistachio and honey-locust trees, and Dec. 12 they have a flute concert from 12-2 p.m. – and guided tours you can attend. After lunch don’t miss a chance to walk the Curandero Trail and learn about edible and medicinal Sonoran Desert plants on a walk guided by authors Kathy and Tom McDonald.”
Take a few minutes and chat with Janeen or other OMYA staff during lunch and you’ll learn how sedimentary limestone deposits left by ancient marine creatures are used today – you might even be surprised to learn that OMYA is Kosher certified! And, while they may not also be kosher, hot-dogs will be free – so bring the kids, grandkids, nephews and nieces.
For information about OMYA, call 520-689-2501; learn more about the Arboretum by exploring the website ag.arizona.edu/bta.