COMMUNITY
VIGNETTES
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JEFF CARUSO Construction inspector, City of Buckeye
“Nothing better than a bottle of ice-cold water on a hot day.”
SWEAT EQUITY How do Buckeye’s outdoor daytime workers cope with the summer heat? Temperatures regularly soar past 110 degrees for weeks straight in Buckeye summers. Essential outdoor workers in the city have developed strategies, mantras and philosophies to help them get through the unforgiving summer. InBuckeye asked some about their personal systems, quirky rituals and clever hacks to stay safe and sane under the relentless Arizona sun. All workers told InBuckeye that a positive mindset is essential in outdoor work. “The freedom of working outside gives a person a certain peace of mind,” said one.
Jeff Caruso doesn’t mess around when it comes to Arizona heat. He downs at least seven and as many as 10 bottles of water a day, adding Gatorade occasionally, and treats coffee as nothing more than “starter fluid.” Pre-hydration the night before and frequent breaks help him stay cool. He also swears by his latest gadget: a neck-mounted air conditioner. His summer gear includes long sleeves, light-colored clothing, SPF, shade protection and a wet towel under his hard hat for extra cooling.
Go-to snack: Gummy bears and sour Skittles Summer soundtrack: Superman theme song
“Water is my go-to thirst quencher ... but I also love an ice-cold Gatorade from time to time.” “
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CHYKILA BOOKER Police service assistant, Buckeye Police Department
Chykila Booker keeps it simple and consistent: six or seven water bottles per day, an ice-packed cooler, a chilled water scarf for her neck and arms. She never drinks coffee — but gets plenty of shade. Her favorite summer trick is simple but effective: “I’ll park under the shade to get some work done.” Go-to snack: Fresh fruit or salad Summer soundtrack: Disney classics
InBuckeye.com | July 2025
July 2025 | InBuckeye.com
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