Water Treatment Plant Called Soul Of Town

The world's first functional water treatment plant opened up with minimal fanfare in Derber, Arizona. The plant had been the center of attention in the small town during early days of construction, but the novelty wore off during the summer as the area was besieged by three tornadoes, endured locusts for two months, and suffered a drought followed by a flood.

By the time the plant was completed, only eight people were able to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony. "I'm not discouraged by the small turnout," said County Commissioner Hiram Gazoo to the gathering at Snookies Diner and Reading Room on State Route 53-R, past where the Moriville irrigation trench crosses County 1B5T. "History will remember that it all began here with this plant," he told the gathering. Mr. Gazoo noted that there were cold cuts for everyone, and plenty of lemonade.