Stories for October 2003 | Payson Roundup

Thursday, October 30

Gloria M. Klemp

Gloria May Klemp, 67, of Tonto Basin, died Oct. 19, 2003.

PHS runners prep for regional at Runner invite

The Class 4A Grand Canyon regional showdown action kicks off tomorrow in Flagstaff for the Payson High School cross country teams.

Elaine M. Parsons

Elaine Marie Houghton-Parsons, 48, died Sept. 20, 2003.

Lady Horns miss regional finals by 3 points

A Herculean effort that left Lady Longhorn volleyball coach Chris Schwind beaming with pride came up three points short of earning Payson a berth in the 4A Grand Canyon regional final four.

Billy Bob signs up for life in paradise

It's looking more and more like Payson High School senior Billy Bob Hoyt will be spending the next four years of his life on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii.

Halloween happenings aplenty in northern Gila County

PINE-STRAWBERRY

Residents of Pine and Strawberry, grab your children and get up to Pine tonight for the annual Halloween costume contest and party sponsored by ERA Young Realty of Strawberry/Pine and Strawberry Market.

A visit to Yuma shows virtues of Rim country

TONTO VILLAGE

Happy Halloween to all my readers! October is now history. Where has all the time gone? The older I get, the faster the time goes by.

Many hands make Halloween happy

CHRISTOPHER CREEK

About 60 little goblins showed up for the annual Halloween Hayride sponsored by the Christopher Creek Homeowners Association Saturday night. Costumes from Scooby Doo to a little bumblebee were on display.

P-S Buffaloes qualify for state tournament

The Pine/Strawberry Buffaloes' seventh- and eighth-grade volleyball team has qualified for the Arizona State Small School Championship tournament.

8-2 record won't assure Horns of state

Could the Longhorn football team wrap up the season with an impressive 8-2 record and not be awarded a berth into the Class 4A state tournament?

We live in a miracle town

Last night I witnessed a miracle.

Emergency personnel make big impact

To: Native Air, Payson Fire Department, Arizona Public Safety, Life Star Ambulance, and Diamond Star Fire Department:

Community organizing for ACC meeting

I would like to inform the public that several of us in Pine have talked at length about possible solutions to our water problems and we are now ready to form a legal committee to deal with our issues.

Simple steps can make difference

While the situation is somewhat different in California as opposed to Payson ...

What's up?

Q: Why are there hand-lettered signs for Moonlight Drive and Rainbow in Star Valley? Are the roads in Star Valley being renamed?

Five hearts devoted to arts open Gallery 87

The five owners of Gallery 87 have a combined 120 years in the arts to share with customers at their new shop in Pine.

Talk puts strike on hold

"Morale is excellent here, everyone's attitude is good and it's business as usual," said Dan Dillon, manager of the Safeway store in Payson.

Ward, lifetime humanitarian, dead at 78

A life of selfless service and acclaim came to an end last weekend. Larry Ward, 78, of Payson, who made numerous charitable organizations and disaster relief his life's work, died Oct. 25, 2003.

Harold R. Beauchamp

Harold Ritchey Beauchamp, 73, longtime resident of Strawberry, died Oct. 25, 2003 in Mesa.

Two busts net more than 40 grams of meth

The Payson Police Department netted about $5,000 worth of methamphetamine and arrested 11 people in the course of two different raids Tuesday.

Church protests Harry Potter event

As children walked into the library Wednesday, a group outside shouted through bullhorns, telling the youngsters that they were going to hell.

Protesters had the right, but did wrong by the children

One of the freedoms we enjoy as Americans is the right to public protest. But with that right comes an expected level of appropriate behavior.

Define embarrassment

Letter to Ken Murphy: What is your definition of "embarrassment"?

Joseph D. Kane

Joseph David Kane, 81, of Payson, died Oct. 26, 2003.

Brothers bag elk on first hunt

CORRECTION

After successfully passing a certified hunter safety course and being drawn for cow elk tags, brothers Jake and Clint Hacker were about as excited as two young hunters can be.

County leader chides Valley for water waste

WATER WIZARDS

This is the third in a series featuring in-depth interviews with the people who impact the Rim country's water situation.

Arsonists set blaze in abandoned home

Two teenagers caught fleeing the scene

A blaze ignited an abandoned house located up a steep dirt road off Pine Street late Tuesday morning.

Sound system improves at town hall

The town of Payson enters the high-tech era with its new digital recording system and improved acoustics in the council chambers.

Rim country haunts

From the Ehrenberg Cemetery to Jerome's Haunted Hamburger, ghosts abound in Arizona, and the Rim country, contrary to a new book on the subject, is no exception.

Tuesday, October 28

Haunted Mall, Trunk or Treat draw Halloween crowds

REVIEW FEATURE

Ready to have your skin really crawl? Want a spine-tingling evening that you'll feel all the way to the soles of your feet? Are you brave enough to handle a first-class scare?

Play mad scientist in the kitchen for Halloween

IN THE KITCHEN

Treat your fright night guests to this quick trick -- hot and hearty party pleasers so frightfully easy it's almost scary.

Antiques, collectibles and primitives

AROUND THE RIM COUNTRY

This is a game everybody can play.

Stories from the East Verde River, Part 10

BACK WHEN

We have followed the East Verde River from its headwaters on the Rim past homesteads, ranches and natural wonders, each with its story to tell, over the last several weeks in the Tuesday editions of the Payson Roundup.

Monday, October 27

Property owners put Bush in office

The following information recently came to my attention:

Little League needs you

Local Little League official Chuck Barton has a stern warning to Payson Little League players and parents:

World traveler prefers Payson

PAYSON PEOPLE

If you thought only bumpkins chose to live in Payson, chances are you don't know Mike Macfarlane, world traveler and raconteur.

Recreation interpretation: Community Center vision comes into focus

LIVING

Since the early 1980s, a community center has been part of the town's master plan. Now, the Parks and Recreation Department has a feasibility study that is a tangible representation of the vision.

Name the truck

Payson Fire Department personnel tested the hose on Payson's new 1990 Grumman Aerial-Cat ladder platform truck Friday at Green Valley Park.

The evolution of the family dog

FOCUS ON PETS

After discussing breeds and behavior of dogs, it is interesting to examine their history.

Jayden Marie Conway

Jayden Marie Conway was born Aug. 10, 2003 to proud parents Chris and Becky Conway.

Honor Society adds character to grades

It used to be kind of a laid-back club for students with a high grade point average, but the National Honor Society has changed at Payson High School.

Time to fight for what's fair

One of the first lessons we learn as children is that life isn't always fair.

Accountability crucial to batterer treatment

Men who batter come from all socioeconomic backgrounds, races, religions, and walks of life.

Former Longhorn shines as Australian pitching ace

For former Payson High School pitching standout Jeremy Heairet, the road to a professional baseball career passes through Toowoomba, Australia.

Tonto Apaches donate bus for Page trip

Thanks to the generosity of the Tonto Apaches, the Longhorn football team will be traveling Friday to Page in first-class style.

Horns clip Eagles' wings in late rally

A pair of fourth-quarter touchdowns erased a 3-0 deficit and earned the Longhorns a 15-3 Class 4A Grand Canyon regional victory over the Flagstaff Eagles.

We all have said goodbye

HISTORY

"Time To Say Goodbye" is the name of a beautiful song, and that is a phrase we all have used at various times in our lives. Saying "goodbye" is usually a bittersweet time.

Police officer will devote time to traffic enforcement

Officer Allen Dyer has been selected to be the Payson Police Department's traffic enforcement officer.

Fire board recall moves forward

The move to recall the board of the Christopher-Kohl's Fire District is winding down.

Wallace J. Simerly

Wallace "Wally" J. Simerly, 80, died in Payson Oct. 22, 2003.

Edward O. Lydic

Ed Lydic, 60, of Payson, Ariz., died in Payson Oct. 22, 2003 after a heart attack.

Francis A. Cline, Sr.

Francis Albert Cline, Sr., 83, of Young, Ariz., died at his residence Oct. 23, 2003.

McQuain, Small announce engagement

Danny and Kathleen McQuain announce the engagement of their son, Zachary Owen, to Annette Christine Small, daughter of Lorie Small of Phoenix, and Richard Small of Atlanta, Ga.

What's up?

Q: There have been coyotes around Rumsey Park, Trailwood and Woodhill lately. What can be done to get rid of them and are they a danger to small pets and small children?

A community leader with a good heart

You probably get letters extolling the virtues of your newspaper on a regular basis, but I would like to nominate a particular employee for the "Good Guy" award.

Lawsuit is last resort for college money

Our elected Representative Bill Konopnicki has told our college leaders, and in essence all Gila County residents, "over and over and over again" that Gila Community College will never be a full-fledged college because we won't have the population or assessed valuation that previous legislation requires.

Family planning a joint responsibility

There is a rumor that Planned Parenthood is trying again to penetrate our community.

More than 100 guests expected by Marines

The U.S. Marine Corps' 228th anniversary celebration is next month.

Humane society down to 50 dogs

It was a banner day at the Payson Humane Society -- especially for Jacob, the Great Dane/Lab mix featured on the front page of Friday's Roundup.

Traffic stop nets pound of meth

A routine traffic stop near Rye on Highway 87 led to the discovery of a pound of methamphetamine Monday morning.

Weekend fire underscores need to treat state's forests

Just when it seemed like the forest fire season was over, yet another blaze erupted Saturday.

Rim crews battling California wildfires

Heeding a call for help, 11 firefighters from the Rim country are on their way to help battle the blazes consuming Southern California.

Local teen bags third buck

Thirteen-year-old Nick Goodman has already enjoyed more success than much older, seasoned hunters.

Thursday, October 23

Women deserve to know all of the risks

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation may "help women beat (some) of the odds", but there is one of the odds they refuse to even mention -- the increased risk of breast cancer after abortion.

An ironic twist of fate

Regarding Marvin Joachim's letter (Oct. 14 Roundup): It got a lot of patriot adrenaline flowing.

Amnesty for Mexicans: What about other nationalities?

Should have closed our borders 9-11.

What's up?

Q: Why did the school district cut physical education at the elementary schools, then turn around and give both the superintendent and business manager raises?

Eagles a key to Payson's state berth

The postseason fate of the Longhorn football team could rest on the outcome of tonight's game against the Flagstaff Eagles.

Meyocks takes first club crown

Laura Meyocks has staked claim to one of the most prestigious titles that can be earned by a Payson Women's Golf Association member.

Welcome to Rim country

As you top the rise on the hill above Rye, you'll catch your first glimpse of the Mogollon Rim, the breathtaking escarpment that borders the Rim country to the north. At the base of this wonder is Payson, Arizona, the "Gateway to the Rim."

Owner envisions Western Village as destination

Western Village is a vision -- part of plans for the future to look back on the past.

Safeway strike may impact local shoppers

Both management and staff at the Payson Safeway are saying little about a possible strike by the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 99.

Slade D. Gibson

Slade David Gibson, 18 months old, of Payson, died Oct. 19, 2003 in Phoenix.

Horns have tough row to hoe

The road to a team berth into the 4A state cross country tournament will be a rocky one for the Payson Longhorn boys.

Richard S. Inman

Richard Shelton Inman, 59, of Pine, died Oct. 17, 2003 in Glendale, Ariz.

Plenty to do in Pine-Strawberry this weekend

PINE-STRAWBERRY

Fall is beautiful and busy in Pine and Strawberry. What a wonderful place to live. There is always plenty to do both on the weekends and during the week.

Silence, Fall Festival a wonderful event

CHRISTOPHER CREEK

The Celebrate the Silence Street Party and Fall Festival was last weekend in Christopher Creek. Residents celebrated the renovation of Highway 260 and the traffic switch to the new bypass around our mountain community.

John W. Toot

John W. Toot, 87, of Pine, died Oct. 21, 2003.

Dorothy I. Cochran Smith

Dorothy Irene Cochran Smith, 84, died Oct. 19, 2003 in Joseph City.

Quaint, mountain villages the place to relax

In 1890, when the Mormon families of Rial Allen, Marion Allen, Alexander Allen, Price Nelson, Lee Heward and William Hunt requested permission from the church president to abandon the settlement of Pine, the survival of the small, mountain community was threatened.

Hunting for fall colors

Autumn has arrived, so fall color cannot be far away.

Top 15 things to do in Rim country

If you're looking for something to do this winter, stop by the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce, and let the volunteers there fill your head with suggestions.mong the suggestions will no doubt be the following 15 activities:

Recreation for everyone

Winter is a special time in the Rim country.

Rim crew highlight of Valley colleges

The Phoenix College Bears vs. Mesa College Thunderbirds football game Oct. 18 took on a decidedly Rim country flair.

On first hunt, brothers bag elk

After successfully passing a certified hunter safety course and being drawn for cow elk tags, brothers Jake and Clint Hatcher were about as excited as two young hunters can be.

Smorgasbord of songs

Celebrating its silver anniversary this year, the Tonto Community Concert Association has four more performances planned in the coming months.

Perfect time to visit the Bridge

In a normal year, about 110,000 people visit Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.

Bass, trout, crappie -- Rim country has it all

From the Mogollon Rim down to Roosevelt Lake, Rim country offers some good fishing for local and visiting anglers.

Take a tour of Rim country's history

The Rim country is graced with striking natural wonders, impressive ancient ruins and important historic locations.

From Payson to the Rim

The scenic areas along Highway 260 east of Payson offer a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities in the fall and winter.

Diamond Point residents lodge protest on rezoning

The Gila County Board of Supervisors learned a lesson Tuesday: Don't mess with Diamond Point zoning.

10-member posse honored by Sheriff's Office

The Gila County Sheriff's Office honored the 30 volunteer members of the Payson Sheriff's Posse this past Tuesday for their assistance to the department.

U.S. needs to get off border policy fence

America -- land of the free. Where it seems anyone is free to sue for anything under the sun.

Trip helped rekindle our patriotism

We have just returned from a most delightful week in Williamsburg, Virginia, cradle of our nation's birth.

Main Street -- where it all began

For many years, Main Street was the social center for much of the Rim country, town historian Stan Brown said. Once a dusty thoroughfare, it featured mercantile stores, saloons, hotels, boarding houses, livery stables, a blacksmith shop and a sawmill.

Enjoy the slower pace of Tonto Basin

Roosevelt Lake is one of the state's favorite water playgrounds.

College weighs suing state

County officials met Tuesday afternoon to consider suing the state over funding for Gila County's community colleges and to express their displeasure over the level of support the county is receiving from its state legislators on the issue.

Shelter dogs need to go

It's not quite a fire sale -- but close.

11-year-old nabbed for attempted armed robbery

Payson police and Gila County Sheriff's deputies responded to a 911 call Sept. 15 from a clerk at Circle K in Star Valley where it was reported that an armed 11-year-old boy was preparing to rob the store.

County plays name game with roads

Deputy Gila County Manager Steve Besich stood before the supervisors in Payson Tuesday to discuss renaming roads in unincorporated communities in northern Gila County.

When domestic violence turns deadly

So far this year, 46 Arizonans have lost their lives to domestic violence. It remains the leading cause of homicide for women, according to the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Tuesday, October 21

Over 35 and not-so-desperate

AROUND THE RIM COUNTRY

"Find a Husband After 35 (Using What I Learned at Harvard Business School): A Simple 15-Step Action Program" is not only the year's longest book title, but yet another in a seemingly endless series of books designed to help people find mates and, in the process, learn to understand and interact with the opposite sex.

Back when the Yavapai Indian Reservation was established

BACK WHEN

Recently the tribe of the Fort McDowell Indian Reservation celebrated the 100th anniversary of President Theodore Roosevelt signing their 24,680-acre reservation into existence. It was established on the old Fort McDowell military post, which had been abandoned in 1890.

A collection of old-fashioned cake recipes

IN THE KITCHEN

Recently I came across a cookbook devoted to taking commercial cake mixes, adding assorted ingredients and special touches and coming out with a show piece.

Western Heritage Festival celebrates Payson's past

FEATURE

One of the really cool things about living in the Rim country is our cowboy and Indian heritage.

Monday, October 20

Genealogical Society finally gets permanent home

At last, the Northern Gila County Genealogical Society is opening the doors of its own facility.

Heritage Fest unfolds at GVP

Rim country residents and visitors alike are invited to step back into the area's storied past at the Fourth Annual Rim Country Western Heritage Festival unfolding this Saturday, Oct. 25, in and around the Rim Country Museum and Green Valley Park.

Convicted murderer seeks an appeal

Kevan Kuhlman, serving a 20-year sentence for the murder of TV 7 Station Manager Susan Birchak, wants his plea overturned.

Police test waters on second academy

In 2001, 25 Rim country residents went through a 12-week seminar called the Citizens Police Academy.

Pine man rescued in rollover

After spending the day at the veterans hospital in Phoenix Friday, 78-year-old Terry Snidecor called his wife, Bev, telling her he was going to stop for dinner in Payson before heading home to Pine.

Care Fair brings nonprofit groups together

If you've been looking for an organization to get involved with, this is your one-stop chance to learn more about more than 40 of the Rim country's finest groups.

Chapman burglary under investigation

A cleaning crew working at Chapman Auto Center called police when they noticed that one of the vehicles parked in the back lot had been broken into, Sunday night.

Council to look at code amendments

Most of the issues on Thursday's agenda of the Payson Town Council meeting involve amending the Unified Development Code for growth-related purposes.

County continues to rename roads

The renaming of roads around the county may not be the heated issue it has been in recent weeks.

Dreaming of a cure and NASCAR

PAYSON PEOPLE

Cindy Shafe thought she was living in a safe community in Thousand Oaks, Calif., until a drive-by shooting prompted her and longtime boyfriend, Les Brown, get out of Dodge.

Stories from the East Verde River, Part 9

HISTORY

Come along as we continue our flight down the winding course of the East Verde River. We begin to understand why the native peoples called it "The Crooked Water."

Lady Horns steam toward regionals

With the Grand Canyon regional tournament set to begin Oct. 28 at Flagstaff Coconino High School, the Lady Longhorns are positioning themselves for solid showing in the postseason.

Longhorns lose to Mingus, now 5-2 on the season

After winning five consecutive games to open Payson High School's inaugural year in the 4A conference, the Longhorn football team has dropped two narrow decisions to Grand Canyon regional rivals.

Payson runners get peek at Grand Canyon foes

The Coconino Invitational 5K cross country race Oct. 11 at Fort Tuthill near Flagstaff provided the Longhorns with an opportunity to preview most of the teams Payson will battle at the regional championships.

Youth football standings as of Oct. 20

The Payson Raiders remained the only undefeated Rim country youth football team with a 28-0 victory over the Wickenburg Wranglers.

Coconino judges snub Lady Horns

For unknown reasons, the Lady Longhorns' final team score was not included in the standings when the results of the Coconino Invitational were tabulated.

Frewin wins second soccer shoot-out

Joshua Frewin, 12, a sixth-grade student at Rim Country Middle School, has won his second consecutive Payson Elks Soccer Shoot Out title.

Annabelle Olivia Mae Arendell

Annabelle Olivia Mae Arendell was born May 4, 2003.

Frank W. Fruitman

A reception in memory of Frank W. Fruitman will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 at the First Church of the Nazarene on Tyler Parkway in Payson.

Levi G. Windle

Levi Garrett Windle, 24, died Oct. 18, 2003.

Joan D. Vick

Joan D. Vick, 63, of Payson, died Oct. 17, 2003.

Harvey Kaufman

Harvey Kaufman, 86, died Oct. 14, 2003.

Richard S. Inman

Richard Shelton Inman, 59, of Pine, died Oct. 17, 2003 in Glendale, Ariz.

Roger D. Hendrickson

Roger Dean Hendrickson, 88, died Oct. 14, 2003.

Students show affection for retired teacher

Payson High School teacher Teri McKee retired at the end of the last school year.

What's up?

Q: The Department of Corrections' tree cutting program is now taking down trees on private property for money. Who gets the money?

Bypass needed for Payson, as well

Oh, that Payson business people would have the same forward vision that the Christopher Creek business people have as they celebrated the silence on Oct. 17 because of the bypass.

Raising 13 children doesn't make Flake an authority

I feel compelled to write a letter after reading Jake Flake's editorial (Oct. 10 Roundup).

FCC limits our freedom of choice

For most of us, wireless communications have meant a whole new world of freedom. Just this morning, I accessed the World Wide Web from my kitchen table, made a few calls on my ride to work and mailed a picture of my granddaughter's ballet recital over the phone.

ACC will hold Pine meeting

Thank you for your help. Through your column, information was passed along to the citizens of Pine regarding our problems with Brooke Utilities, and as a result of the efforts made by many of these citizens to contact the ACC in response to our situation, we have been granted a public comment meeting to air our grievances and ask questions before the ACC holds a formal hearing which will decide any rate increase requested by Brooke

Take time to study breeds before you adopt

FOCUS ON PETS

As mentioned last week, October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog-Month and ASPCA's theme for the year is "Meet Your Match."

Local artist is partial to trees

LIVING

Everything is relative.

Eric T. Lunden

Eric Theodore Lunden, 81, of Sun City, died Oct. 17, 2003.

Shelter from storm of domestic violence

Imagine you are stranded in a broken car on an abandoned road with your two young children. The three of you have no food or blankets and you grow colder in what seems like an endless snowstorm.

Thursday, October 16

Marine seeking fellow vets

I was a Marine during World War II.

Delbert N. Martin

Delbert Newton Martin, 95, died Oct. 11, 2003 in Payson.

Elmer E. Beers

Elmer E. Beers, 83, died Oct. 10, 2003.

Walk into a nightmare at the Haunted Mall

Ready to have your skin really crawl? Want a spine-tingling evening that you'll feel all the way to the soles of your feet? Are you brave enough to handle a first class scare and waking nightmare?

Pine fire chief's contract terminated

Late last month the board of the Pine-Strawberry Fire District voted to end its contract with Chief Paul Coe, but Coe continues to work for the district.

Christopher Creek celebrates the silence

At 7 a.m. Tuesday, Christopher Creek changed forever.

Highstreet, Mullaly wed

The families of Jennifer Marie Mullaly and Travis Lloyd Highstreet are proud to announce their wedding on Oct. 7, 2003.

Payson losing a treasure as music man moves on

Payson is losing someone very valuable this month. "Shakey" Joe Harless has been the bedrock of a small, but thriving, musical community in Rim country.

Domestic violence can be lethal to police

So far this year, 46 Arizonans have lost their lives to domestic violence. It remains the leading cause of homicide for women, according to the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Key to state lies in regional skirmish

With only the Mingus Invitational Tournament separating the Longhorn golf team from its first appearance in the 4A Grand Canyon regional showdown, the Longhorn fall campaign is reaching its climax.

Fishing has been great at midday

FISH & TIPS

The nice thing about fall fishing is that you don't have to show up at the lake at the crack of dawn to be successful.

Murphy, Foster marry

Mayor Kenneth P. Murphy and Julie Foster were married on Sept. 20, 2003 in Payson.

Stabbing fugitive caught

The suspect charged in a July stabbing who fled after his release from jail, was apprehended by Los Angeles police Monday.

Town ‘turns every rock' in search for water

WATER WIZARDS

Payson Public Works Director Buzz Walker approaches his job with a sense of humor. He says it's the only way to survive.

Blues festival coordinator heads for greener pastures

After 11 years of bringing blues to Payson, "Shakey" Joe Harless is heading east.

Antique fest left some with happy hearts, some with broken dreams

PINE-STRAWBERRY

The Rim Country Antiques and Craft Festival is over. Harry Rinker, the Collector Inspector, made some people very happy and annoyed others with his appraisals.

Remodeled Village entrance was a shock to see

TONTO VILLAGE

If you haven't been to Tonto Village in the past few weeks, you are in for a surprise.

Women celebrate Word of God at retreat

CHRISTOPHER CREEK

The Ladies 5th Annual retreat was held last Wednesday at the Christopher Creek Bible Fellowship Chapel.

‘One Great Game' a metaphor for life

It's not often that really good books about high school football are penned.

Tour of Hope makes Rim country stop

The Tour of Hope Team will climb mountains, cross rivers and reach communities across America to inspire millions and share the importance of cancer research.

Vet toes $1,000 field goal; donates winnings to PHS

It's a huge stretch to think Dr. Alan Hallman might have any high school athletic eligibility left.

Taking Rim country music to new level

One man, with one name, is taking the recording industry in Payson to the next level.

Rain slows PWGA links action

In a "two-best balls" formatted Payson Women's Golf Association tournament that was cut short by rain, the team of Janice Burns, Joyce Goff and Laura Meyocks claimed top honors with a 120.

Cannon blasts his way to first place at Lone Tree

Julia Randall Elementary School third-grader Blake Cannon is not allowing youth and inexperience to stand in the way of a promising golf career.

What's up?

Q: Why isn't anything being done to stop underage drivers on unlicensed all-terrain vehicles on the roads in Tonto Village?

Congratulations to Rim country law enforcement

In response to the comments made by Otis Wells (regarding the marijuana grove found near Young), should we not be congratulating our law enforcement personnel in getting drugs off our streets?

Thanks for helping Payson Helping Payson

Payson Helping Payson wants to thank the Rim Country United Way for its generous donation.

Judge denies ‘gag order' in rape case

Superior Court Judge Peter Cahill denied a "gag order" motion in the case of a man accused of sexually assaulting a developmentally disabled woman in July.

Congratulations on Main Street awards

Regarding the article in the Friday, Oct. 10 edition of the Payson Roundup highlighting the Main Street Project awards, I would like to make a few comments.

Tuesday, October 14

Piles keep getting deeper

AROUND THE RIM COUNTRY

"Got milk? Uncle Sam sure does." So wrote Tom Webb in an article for Knight Ridder Newspapers. He was referring to the fact that your friendly and free-spending U.S. government -- yes, the very government that wants 87 billion more of your dollars to secure whatever the heck it is we want to secure in Iraq -- has been stockpiling powdered milk to the tune of 1.28 billion pounds.

Celebrate ‘Sweetest Day' with favorite treats

IN THE KITCHEN

According to my calendar the "Sweetest Day" is this weekend, Oct. 18.

Low water-use garden open at GCC campus

A low water-use demonstration garden is now open to the public in the center courtyard of the Gila Community College campus.

The Hunter's Moon and other trivia

BACK WHEN

The moon is growing larger these days, and will become The Hunter's Moon on Oct. 25.

Water-wise gardening in the Rim country

REVIEW FEATURE

There is a change occurring in the thinking of gardeners all over the country regarding the type and style of plants chosen for the home and business garden.

Monday, October 13

Stop growth to save our water

Great guidelines and rules on water conservation published by our water department. But, how about the fire station washing down their driveway at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Beating breast cancer

LIVING

Jo Johnson had no interest in mortality statistics when doctors diagnosed her with breast cancer five years ago. All she knew was that she intended to fight hard and defeat it, regardless of the odds.

Picking up after 875 children

PAYSON PEOPLE

If you've ever had teenagers, you know how hard you have to work to pick up after them.

Alternate route makes good business sense

With the ever-increasing traffic congestion on the highways in Payson, an alternate east route for those vehicles that don't have any intention to stop in Payson will prevent many problems for businesses in this town.

‘Clue' brought back memories

We always enjoy your articles about the Rim country history. Of special interest to us was the photo in your recent addition of "CLUE" showing "Sherlock's"-- a restaurant that is now the Knotty Pine.

Dorothy K. Behl

Dorothy K. Behl, 89, of Payson, died Oct. 8, 2003 in Payson.

Valley teen dies after fall from Rim

A 16-year-old Phoenix boy fell more than 300 feet to his death off the side of the Mogollon Rim Saturday morning.

Mayor found guilty of disorderly conduct

After two days of testimony, it took Judge Pro Tem John Perlman just a few minutes to pronounce Payson Mayor Ken Murphy guilty of disorderly conduct-fighting, a class one misdemeanor.

Police standoff with armed resident ends peacefully

What began as a domestic dispute at a residence on the 300 block of Heritage Lane evolved into a standoff between police and a heavily armed man who barricaded himself inside his home Saturday night.

History Park plan reaches final stage

The Payson Town Council unanimously approved a bid to construct the Main Street History Park building Thursday evening.

Mid-town Texaco to close

The midtown Texaco -- a longtime fixture in Payson -- is not long for this world. And the Texaco name is disappearing from the station on the south end of town.

County sues EAC

Gila County has filed its long-awaited lawsuit against Eastern Arizona College.

Nearly 100 residents to be ‘locked up' for MDA

The Muscular Dystrophy Association is locking up nearly 100 Rim country residents at Cucina Paradiso.

People, pets enjoy canine festivities

Dogs and their people enjoyed the fun and games at the second annual Dog Day in the Park Oct. 4, sponsored by PAWS in the Park and the Payson Parks and Recreation Department.

‘Meet your match' with a new friend

FOCUS ON PETS

October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog-Month, sponsored by the ASPCA.

Mayor's trial lost focus

Payson Mayor Ken Murphy's latest trial lasted a mind-numbing two days.

Flatlander Party is an honored tradition

In response to: If it's exclusive it's not mail.

Is Arizona safe from terrorists?

Re: Immigrant entrance.

Family can't understand this loss

Our family has lost two loved ones this year -- a mother and her son. To honor these two wonderful people, the family had a beautiful stone with a plaque made.

What's up?

Q: With the lower Tonto Campground being closed, are the park benches, fire rings and barbecues going to be dispersed to other campgrounds for use or are they going to be destroyed?

Mary Maclovia Hill

Mary Maclovia Hill was born Aug. 9, 2003 to Rose and Dan Hill of Payson.

Faith Bonnie Neal

Faith Bonnie Neal was born Sept. 14, 2003 at Payson Regional Medical Center.

Woolwine, Vore wed

Jory Woolwine and Christina Vore were united in marriage on Sept. 27, 2003 at the Mazatzal Casino in Payson.

Roy L. Crosier

Roy Lawrence Crosier, 79, died Oct. 12, 2003.

Sybil Hayes

Sybil Hayes, 85, of Payson, died Oct. 12, 2003.

Dorothy Jonker

Dorothy Jonker, 92, died Oct. 8, 2003 at Palm Valley in Goodyear, Ariz.

Wilbur A. Wright

Wilbur Alvin Wright, 72, of Payson, died Oct. 10 in Phoenix.

Pirch, Pederson claim bass crown

In their first tournament as a bass fishing team, Clifford Pirch and Andy Pederson hooked up to win first place at the AllStar Bass Team Tournament Oct. 5 at Roosevelt Lake.

Horns drop nail-biter to Coconino

Winning streak ends at 5-1

A 12-7 loss to Flagstaff Coconino Friday evening in Longhorn stadium put the skids on the Payson Longhorns five-game winning streak.

Course mix-up stalls senior star

A wrong turn on the Scottsdale El Dorado Park cross country course cost Lady Longhorn Jenny Cohen a chance at winning the championship of the Notre Dame Prep Invitational championship.

Depleted roster leads to Horns' demise

Competing with a Payson cross country roster that was missing three of its best runners, the state 20th-ranked Longhorns boys finished fourth at the five-team Notre Dame Prep Invitational Oct. 8 at El Dorado Park in Scottsdale.

PMGA play features yellow ball format

A "Yellow Ball Scramble" tournament highlighted last week's play for members of the Payson Men's Golf Association.

4th Annual Fall Classic set for Oct. 18

The 4th Annual Fall Classic Trout Tournament Oct. 18 at Woods Canyon Lake will feature fishing for a good cause. All of the proceeds from the annual angling skirmish benefit the Payson Community Christian School.

Thursday, October 9

Frances Kathryn Mularski

Frances Kathryn Mularski, 76, of Payson, died Oct. 1, 2003.

Too bad no one was caught

No wonder there are so many illegal Mexicans in this country. One hundred law enforcement officers can't catch two Mexican pot growers, even with helicopters.

Standing water going untreated

Like the person who phoned in and asked about the West Nile Virus (What's Up, Tuesday, Oct. 7 Roundup), I am very much concerned about the spread of the virus.

Ware did a lot of good for community

Payson's loss is Peoria's gain.

Water Wizard story appreciated

I'm writing on behalf of the concerned residents of Gisela, who've received letters with demands and implied threats from SRP, to thank you for Water Wizards and its interview of John Breninger, which started in Friday's Roundup.

A broken agency in dire need to reform

As the father of 13 children, I am horrified by the seemingly endless reports detailing the neglect, abuse, and even murder of innocent young children. There is no excuse for these heinous criminal acts.

Don't leave fire danger lurking

Oct. 9, 1871. That date has great meaning to residents of the Windy City, and to firefighters across the country.

Such a man is needed today

Almost everywhere I turn, I see young mothers struggling to raise their children alone. Too many of them are bearing the full weight of a broken home because of a man who stepped out of the picture and away from his responsibilities.

Pine and Strawberry activities abound

PINE-STRAWBERRY

Fall is in the air and it is a great weekend to celebrate this wonderful new season.

Lots of cleaning and clearing for fall

TONTO VILLAGE

The village residents are sprucing up their homes with decorations for Halloween.

Visitors get to see science project

CHRISTOPHER CREEK

Friday, Oct. 3 a school bus filled with 28 seventh-grade students from Pinetop Blue Ridge School showed up in Christopher Creek at the gates to Hunter Creek eager to meet with Game and Fish and watch as they tagged and put a GPS collar on an elk.

Carrying on a family tradition of service

They grew up in the Rim country, watching and helping their parents provide service to their friends, neighbors and newcomers. So, it is no surprise Danielle and Chris O'Connor decided to carry on their families' traditions by opening their own business this year, C&D Heating & Cooling Service & Repair.

Bird in Gila County tests positive for West Nile

The West Nile has made its way into Gila County.

TCCA slates toe-tapping evening

The Tonto Community Concert Association presents the second concert of its 25th season this weekend.

Mayor faces third court battle

Mayor Ken Murphy is facing yet another trial in the Payson Justice Court.

The silent victims of domestic violence

Children who witness physical, verbal and emotional abuse between their parents are the silent victims of domestic violence.

Main Street projects earn top honors

Three Payson Main Street projects -- Pine Country Animal Clinic and Homespun Memories, Mad Dawg's and Mel's restaurant, and the Main Street entry monuments -- earned top honors last week in the 2003 Main Street Awards competition.

Speed stop yields more than a quarter pound of meth

It began as just another routine traffic stop for Payson Department of Public Safety Officers Brett Rye and Doc Dimbat, but ended with the discovery of more than a quarter pound of methamphetamine, with a street value of between $4,000 to $6,000.

Primary witness on stand in mayor's 2nd trial

Payson Mayor Ken Murphy's trial for disorderly conduct-fighting began Thursday with a parade of prosecution witnesses recounting the events of Friday, Aug. 16, 2002 at the Ox Bow Saloon.

Regional tourney key for Lady Horn playoff hopes

For the Lady Longhorn volleyball team to earn a berth to the state tournament, the team must win at least a top-two finish at the 4A Grand Canyon regional tournament Oct. 28 and Nov. 1 at Flagstaff Coconino.

Horn hopes hinge on Coconino skirmish

A victory this evening over Flagstaff Coconino might yield the power points the Longhorns need for a berth in the season-ending state tournament.

Shirley F. Templeton

Shirley F. Templeton, 91, died Oct. 5, 2003.

Jean "Brooke" Marie Martinez

Jean "Brooke" Marie Martinez, 55, of Payson, died Oct. 9, 2003.

Archaeology museum improves with age

In just its second year of existence, the Museum of Rim Country Archaeology (MRCA) has undergone a complete makeover.

PCCS sets Woods Canyon trout skirmish

Angling hopefuls will have the opportunity to showcase their skills at the Fourth Annual Fall Classic Trout Tournament Oct. 18 at Woods Canyon Lake.

Payson contingent scores at college rodeo

They've moved on to college, but former Payson High School rodeoers Garret Riggins, Klayton Haught and Lara Baker are still bringing home the buckles.

Fishing report

Apache: Fishing is excellent. Crankbaits and spinnerbaits fished on mainlake points are working well. Soft plastics are also catching some bass. The topwater action should be taking off any time.

Armstrong's Tour of Hope passes through Payson Sunday

World champion cyclist Lance Armstrong is partnering with Bristol-Meyers Squibb to create the Tour of Hope, a week-long cycling journey across America.

John Walter Ferguson

John Walter Ferguson, 68, of Payson, died Oct. 4, 2003.

Michelle C. Long

Michelle C. Long, 59, of Tonto Village, died Oct. 2, 2003.

Safe and fun

Making sure the youngsters at Payson's Community Child Learning Center stay safe while they have fun, Messinger Payson Funeral Home purchased helmets for 17 children who participated in a trike-a-thon last Friday at the center.

Payson Pepsi winners set for Flagstaff showdown

The Rim country will be represented in the NFL Pepsi Punt, Pass and Kick Sectional Competition by six youngsters who captured Payson age/sex group championships. The sectional showdown will be Nov. 8 in Flagstaff.

Horns battle state's best at Conley

Statewide prep team rankings are often misleading and inaccurate.

Tuesday, October 7

Big water used to come over the Mogollon Rim

BACK WHEN

Since the town of Payson is very serious about tapping into water from the Blue Ridge Reservoir on the Rim, this is a good time to review the history of that water source.

Dogs' appeal is simplicity

AROUND THE RIM COUNTRY

Just when you thought everything that could possibly be written about dogs had been written, along comes yet another new book on man's most trusty companion.

Appletizing autumn baking

REVIEW FEATURE

Bring on the apple-crisp autumn season with these red-delicious dishes. Tart, sweet and snappy, these recipes are also easy-as-pie with few ingredients and ready-made frozen dough from the grocery store.

Rim Country Antique and Craft Festival to feature Collector Inspector

Informative and entertaining, the Rim Country Antique and Craft Festival is this weekend, Oct. 11 and 12 at the Pine Community Center.

Monday, October 6

Broadband Internet comes to Rim country

If you are used to getting a cup of coffee or maybe doing your nails while you wait to get connected to the Internet, there is a new, faster choice available.

Hatch, Hutchings marry

Dana Lindsey Hatch and Kenneth Leon Hutchings were married at Rumsey Park Saturday.

Bryant, Rippy wed

Ryan Timothy Rippy and Brande Lynn Bryant of Peoria were married Aug. 9, 2003 at Carefree Resort and Villas, in Carefree.

Halee Sandoval

Halee Sandoval was born March 22, 2003.

Hayden Leigh Hamman

Hayden Leigh Hamman was born July 8, 2003.

Gerry Ann Reed

Gerry Ann Reed, 61, of Strawberry, died Oct. 2, 2003.

Dr. Max L. Partch

Dr. Max L. Partch, 86, died Oct. 1, 2003.

Ted C. Morris

Ted C. Morris, 69, of Payson, died Sept. 25, 2003 in Tucson.

Margaret E. Baird

Margaret "Maggie" E. Baird, 73, of Payson, died Oct. 6, 2003.

What's up?

Q: Are those motorized skateboards street legal?

Personal finances are no one's business

In regards to your What's Up column of Sept. 30: Freedom of the press? I think the Roundup has reached a new low when you start printing the personal financial affairs of business owners and private citizens.

Excited about cats and dogs

I'm writing to you today to tell you how much your newspaper excites me. Whenever I see the dogs or cats who need homes, I always say, "If only I could keep them."

How about a new road to Trailwood?

Why can't there be a direct road from the area around Bulla, Hogan, and Bobby Jones roads to Trailwood?

‘Governments are the enemy of the people'

President Bush's claim of "weapons of mass destruction" in Iraq is just the "tip of the iceberg" in the antics and disinformation employed by our government.

Fiddle fans make it all worthwhile

I would like to thank the Payson Fiddlers committee for presenting my wife Irene and myself with the J.W. & Vertielee Floyd Memorial Award for "years of devoted and volunteer services to the Payson Fiddle Contest."

Many helped make piano concert a hit

We were coordinators for the piano concert by Sam Rotman in Payson last August. There were many people who worked behind the scenes to make it such a wonderful success, and we would like to recognize some of them.

Newspapers are a part of our history

Just about everyone and everything has a day, a week or a month dedicated to it. This week it is National Newspaper Week.

Obesity in pets reaches epidemic proportions

FOCUS ON PETS

Obesity in dogs and cats is of epidemic proportions, according to a new study just released and reported in the Sept. 9 issue of the Wall Street Journal.

Williams predicted huge game against Pinnacle

Payson High School junior Tyler Williams joined me Friday for a mid-morning jog around the Payson High School track.

Castas wins President's Cup tourney

Tom Castas has played his way to the championship of the Payson Men's Golf Association President's Cup tournament.

Cohen wins Sludge to Judge race

Senior Jenny Cohen, competing in her first year of cross country, etched her name into the Payson High School record book by running to the girls championship of the Sludge to the Judge run.

Mavericks sweep four from Whiteriver

It was a good day in the White Mountain League neighborhood for the Rim Country Middle School football and softball teams.

Horns win homecoming clash

Rhoades' crew remains undefeated

The hard-charging Payson Longhorns capped off homecoming week Friday evening on PHS field with an emotional 10-7 victory over Pinnacle.

Stories from the East Verde River, Part 7

HISTORY

Several miles north of Payson, one turns right, off State Highway 87,on to Flowing Springs Road. It follows the river several miles past two homesteads and one squatter's right that was never "proved up." All three locations are steeped in pioneer history.

Passion for children fuels group's efforts

PAYSON PEOPLE

Stephanie Turlukis is one of a growing number of Rim country residents that share a special passion. That passion is to make a difference in the lives of children, who through no fault of their own, have become wards of the state.

Fawn memories: Deer carried out of forest by dog now thriving at Desert Museum

LIVING

When Mary Ferguson, a photographer from Canada, met a rescued fawn at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum while wintering in the Tucson area earlier this year, she was mesmerized.

Council to revisit telecommunications, Payson Pines plan

When the Payson Town Council chose to table the proposed changes to the unified development code regarding placement of telecommunications towers, the Community Development Department made a few changes. The revised version will be presented to the council at its Thursday night meeting for consideration.

Parks Update: Community Center study finished, trout arrive next month

The feasibility study on the proposed community center is completed, Parks and Recreation Director Bill Schwind said.

Roundup named Newspaper of the Year for fifth year

Last year's most honored newspapers repeated the feat in 2003 and were named Arizona Newspapers of the Year for 2003 by the Arizona Newspaper Association Saturday.

Rape reported at Houston Mesa Campground

Mountain Lion Loop, space 21, at the Houston Mesa Campground, was the scene of what police are calling a sexual assault early Sunday morning.

One dies, three injured in Beeline rollover

One person was killed and two others injured in a crash that involved four vehicles around 8 p.m., Sunday night, on the southbound lanes of Highway 87 near Sunflower.

Multi-million dollar marijuana grove seized

More than 19,000 marijuana plants were seized Friday, 15 miles south of Young in a remote canyon. Officials estimated the final count of plants seized would amount to 4,800 pounds with a street value of between $23 and $46 million.

Thursday, October 2

No varsity boys competing in Sludge to Judge

The Longhorn boys varsity cross country team will not compete in today's 10th Annual Sludge to the Judge homecoming road race.

MASH unit holds key to homecoming victory

The Longhorns' fate in tonight's annual homecoming clash could hinge on the return of two injured starters.

Horns finish second at Blue Ridge meet

Winning the top two individual honors wasn't enough to lift the Longhorn boys cross country team to the championship of the 12-team Blue Ridge Invitational.

Car plunges down ravine, driver injured

A local woman was injured Wednesday when her car plunged 100 feet into a ravine off Highway 87 near Ox Bow Hill.

Whiting honored with Lifetime Service Award

Bruce Whiting of Payson received the Lowell Benson Lifetime Service Award at the annual international leadership conference of the Management Society of the Marriott School of Management.

What's up?

Q: What is the average day of the first killing frost in Payson?

Get involved in our community

At a time such as this, three of the Northern Republican women met with our high school principal, Sue Myers, to talk about the negative condition of our high school grounds. Many things were discussed during this brainstorm session.

Why aren't parents taking responsibility for their children?

Regarding your Sept. 26 front-page story and editorial about the dangers of kids on bikes: I drive for the casino on Friday and Saturday nights. I drive all night long. I see kids out there at all hours of the night, riding their bikes with no lights and wearing dark clothes.

Isn't what's good for the goose, good for the gander?

Well, I'm glad to see you've got yourself all riled up about all the water used by Valley folks, with their 300 or so golf courses and all their lakes and all their not conserving and such, and how their wasteful ways are going to drain groundwater from our area.

STUGO sponsors steak dinner Friday

Payson High School guidance counselor and coach Don Heizer is at it again.

The future of water in the Southwest

There is an abundance of water -- we just must learn how to use it less wastefully. We will learn this voluntarily, or we will be made to learn it painfully -- but learn it we will or die trying.

Long record, no jail time ... What's wrong with this picture?

There is a delicate balance within our county justice system. The county attorney's office must assure that the constitutional rights of a defendant are respected. When a suspect is in custody, they cannot be held without cause. Reports and documents must be provided by investigating law enforcement within 48 hours and, within that time, the county attorney's office must examine the evidence and make a decision whether there is justification to hold the suspect.

Literacy raffle features rare Zane Grey book

Take first prize in Rim Country Literacy Program's first Book Raffle and you'll be the proud owner of the rare Zane Grey novel "Camp Robber."

Domestic violence: Women aren't the only victims

Although the majority of victims of domestic violence are women, seven percent are men. Since a desire for power and control is at the heart of domestic violence, according to the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the behaviors cut across gender lines.

Former Payson man arrested for impersonating a doctor

Former Payson resident William Webb was arrested in Snowflake for impersonating a gynecologist and performing examinations on unsuspecting women.

Where was Kids' Voting?

It has come to my attention that the most recent voting in Payson did not consist of Kids' Voting.

October brings exciting times to Christopher Creek

CHRISTOPHER CREEK

The new by-pass around Christopher Creek should be open shortly, and Saturday, Oct. 18 and Sunday, Oct. 19 will be the first Block Party through Christopher Creek. The organizers are still looking for vendors and crafters. Call Nancy Olson at (928) 478-4392 or Debbie Aschbrenner at (928) 478-4550 if you are interested in selling your wares.

Antique and craft festival is next weekend

PINE-STRAWBERRY

Pine/Strawberry School will be on fall break from Oct. 6 through Oct. 17. The office will be open the first week but closed Oct. 13th through the Oct.17.