Thursday, February 28
At the Movies - A Good Day to Die Hard
Latest installment is a big-budget disappointment
A couple of years ago someone wanted to know who would step into the shoes of action hero actors Sly Stallone, Bruce Willis and Arnold Schwarzenegger now that they are getting to a certain age.
Rim Country Places
Chapter 14 – Fossil Creek
Fossil Creek has produced much lore from prehistoric until modern times.
McCormack in new Lifetime movie
Q: One of my favorite actors is Eric McCormack. I loved him in “Will & Grace,” and I really love his new show, “Perception.” Can I see him in anything else while I wait for “Perception” to return?
Talented Twins
Sons of Ricky Nelson Continue Musical Legacy
Tonto Community Concert Association presents “Ricky Nelson Remembered — Matthew and Gunnar Nelson” at 7 p.m., Saturday, March 2 at the Payson High School Auditorium.
Good 2 Go
The Mogollon Health Alliance Auxiliary is having an Arts & Crafts Sale in the hospital’s main lobby, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, March 1 only. Many of its top sellers will be available.
Protect yourself, your computer, identity
Gila Community College is hosting a free 1-hour seminar and slideshow on “Protecting Yourself, Your Computer, and Your Identity” presented by Norbert “Bob” Gostischa, information technology security expert, at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, March 7 in Room 301 of the Payson Campus of Gila Community College.
Cat in the Hat means Seuss’ birthday
The Cat is back and the Payson Public Library is ready to celebrate with all new ideas, games, and fun!
around the world in 30 days!
Travel the globe in one vacation
Have you ever thought of going around-the — world in one vacation? I have several times and it leaves you with a strong sense of completion.
Keep a well-stocked ‘cantry’
For those who enjoy preparing home-cooked, nutrient-rich meals, but are often pressed for time, canned foods are essential cooking tools.
Life is still good without an appendix
When is the better time to take medicines: a.m. or p.m.?
Wednesday, February 27
Wala selected to serve on school board
Devin Wala will replace Payson Unified School District Board member Barbara Shepherd, the Roundup has learned.
Tuesday, February 26
Nothing but blue skies ...
After a week of snow and clouds, Rim Country has nothing but rising temperatures and blue skies on tap for the rest of the week.
Diabetes takes deadly toll on Apache tribe
Health fair deploys dancers, testimonials to fight illness with information
“Even these children are educators,” said Cassandra Stouder, diabetes coordinator for the Tonto Apache Tribe. Tashina Smith couldn’t a agree more.
High school graduation test slated in Payson
GED testing is scheduled in Payson March 22-23 and April 26-27.
State tax plan could cost town
Mayor Evans says proposed shift could cost town at least $320,000 annually
Cities and towns across Arizona have rallied to try to block the overhaul of how the state collects and distributes sales taxes, fearing the shift will cost hard-pressed local governments millions of dollars.
Payson hospital wins top award
Payson Regional Medical Center has once again been named one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® by Truven Health Analytics, formerly the health care business of Thomson Reuters and still a leading provider of information on the cost and quality of health care.
Star Valley struggles with hydrants
A firestorm of controversy hit the Star Valley Town Council meeting last week over discussion of repair work needed on fire hydrants and a pump.
Traffic tragedy barely averted
A father and son say they are lucky to be alive after an out-of-control driver nearly struck them in a Highway 87 roundabout in the heart of Payson Monday afternoon.
Community Almanac
Come out and support the culinary arts students of Payson High School by tasting the flavors of Route 66 buffet style at 5 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26 at the Julia Randall Elementary cafeteria.
Picking the pockets of local government
Let’s say you’ve resolved to be more financially responsible. That’s great. Praiseworthy even.
Lawmaker wants Arizona to nullify federal actions
Arizona answers to the U.S. Constitution before it answers to the federal government and shouldn’t have to enforce any action from Washington it considers unconstitutional, a state lawmaker contends.
Gila Community College to seek independence
The Gila Community College board last week took the first crucial step toward both achieving independence and renegotiating the contract with Eastern Arizona College required by its provisional college status.
Storms strain sanitary district’s system
Facilities strained to handle flows three times normal due to storm water
A succession of winter storms proved the wisdom of recent upgrades in the wastewater treatment system for Payson — but underscored the urgency of additional changes.
Conservative group seeks to mobilize veterans
A former tank captain turned county prosecutor and political activist breezed through Payson last week to promote a new organization seeking to enlist military veterans to push for a balanced budget, low taxes and deep cuts in domestic spending programs.
Bicycle Adventures
Mick Wolf has a wandering streak like his relative Arizona Charlie — but Payson called him back
After a stint wandering the West Coast, the owner of the only bike and repair shop in Rim Country, Bicycle Adventures (formerly Hike, Bike and Run), has returned to his roots.
Lawmakers line up behind land exchange for mine
Gosar, Kirkpatrick join effort to swap land for $62 billion copper mine
The state’s congressional delegation has lined up behind a controversial land exchange that will create an estimated 3,700 local jobs in Southern Gila County and clear the way for a deeply buried copper deposit worth an estimated $62 billion.
Rosier outlook at the Capitol for Arizona State Parks
After years of delivering deep cuts, lawmakers this session are discussing ways to give Arizona State Parks some more money and bring back a lottery-funded grant program the agency administered.
Turn back the clock to sweet rock ’n’ roll
The Nelson family is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the only family in entertainment history with three generations of #1 hitmakers.
Sedona resident pleads guilty to illegal trail building
A Sedona resident in has pled guilty to illegally building a trail on the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest.
Verizon Wireless upgrades Payson coverage to 4G
Verizon Wireless recently upgraded the wireless service for customers in Arizona’s Rim Country communities of Payson, Star Valley and Rye.
GCC students named to All-AZ Academic Team
Two Gila Community College students (GCC), Jackie Ballam and Hannah Henderson, along with 75 other Arizona Community College students, earned spots on the 17th Annual All-Arizona Academic Team.
Fewer than 100 tickets remain for Taste
Chefs’ competition will benefit library
It is one of the best parties of the year: The annual A Taste of Rim Country presented by the Library Friends of Payson.
Clubs and Organizations
The Sy Harrison Masonic Lodge #70, located at 200 E. Rancho Road in Payson, meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m.
Stick to the facts
I am writing in reference to your front page article concerning the police bust of Nature’s Harvest.
What’s the relevance?
Regarding the article in Tuesday’s paper, regarding the “bust for medical pot” — What is the relevance of the comment on Ms. Golliglee’s dress and makeup?
A personal vendetta?
“This is Gila County and Navajo County coming down on people who sell marijuana in their communities,” (said Navajo County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy James Molesa.)
Unemployed don’t want to do the work that illegals do
Some of your letter writers must move into the 21st century and face reality.
PRMC staff commendable
Recently, I spent considerable time in the Payson Regional Medical Center here in Payson as a patient.
Just defensive posturing and saber rattling threats
Your letter writers are not alone in making spurious claims and accusations concerning the so-called “gun control” issue.
Competitive shooter guest at outdoors event
The highly popular Shoot for the Heart seminars have hosted many intriguing figures, but probably none more fascinating than Wes Walton, the man set to be the guest today, Feb. 26 at Mountain Bible Church.
Seniors survive on basketball court without oxygen
With the inaugural Wiseman 3-on-3, 50-year plus basketball tournament in the record books, Tonto Apache Gym Recreation Leader Eric Pendleton is already planning for the second annual event.
Armstrong fishes to top-10 at Roosevelt Lake tourney
Former Payson High three-sport standout pockets $2,791
Payson angler Levi Armstrong leaped into the FLW pro bass tournament standings lead on opening day, Feb. 21, at Roosevelt Lake, but by the third and final day had fallen to ninth overall.
Lady Horns primed for state run
The presence a standout pitching/catching battery and two all-around infield stalwarts has fans and boosters predicting the 2013 Lady Longhorn softball team could be the best ever.
Longhorns open with three wins in Fountain Hills event
Brian Young’s debut as the Payson High School baseball coach turned into a rousing success with the team finishing 3-1 in the Fountain Hills Invitational Tournament.
Friday, February 22
Payson can stand tall
Payson did it again! For the fourth consecutive year, the wonderful folks of Payson made the Payson Area Food Drive (PAFD) a resounding success!
How much liberty will ‘safety’ cost?
Weapons of the “enlisted” men in the Civil War were confiscated at the surrender and I have seen pictures of them being burned after the Confederates headed home.
Common Core Standards require common sense
The proposed implementation of Arizona’s Common Core Standards in education requires some common sense reasoning.
Are they fools or just acting foolish?
Fooled again. We thought the Washington politicians from both parties were just playing at being petty, irresponsible knuckleheads for the election.
Best of the best
Readers play favorites in Rim Country
Rim Country’s business elite will gather Monday at the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino to learn who Roundup readers have chosen as the best restaurants, bars, hair stylist — you name it.
Storm covers Rim Country
Payson gets 9 inches sitting in snowstorm’s ‘sweet spot’
“You were in the sweet spot for snow accumulation,” said Chris Outler, meteorologist for the National Weather Service (NWS), referring to the storm that blew through the Rim Country this week.
Testy teachers
Superintendent says reforms may well drive teachers away
Times have sure changed, Payson Unified School District Superintendent Ron Hitchcock told the Rim Country Democratic Women’s Club. To prove the point, he offered a comparison.
University research boosts Arizona’s economy
Research at Arizona’s three public universities injected more than $1 billion into the state’s economy last year, according a report released by the Arizona Board of Regents.
New county assessor settling in just fine
After 25 years, the Gila County Assessor’s Office has someone new at the helm, and Payson realtor Deborah Hughes is settling in wonderfully.
PHS Culinary Arts students serve up Route 66 buffet
Payson High School Culinary Arts class on Tuesday, Feb. 26 will host its annual Chef Event by featuring the flavors of Route 66.
Curiosity + experimentation = annual science fair
Julia Randall Elementary School hosted its annual science fair earlier this month with a huge turnout of students, parents, friends and visiting teachers from other schools.
Free computer, Internet security presentation at GCC
Gila Community College and the Payson Area Computer Association (P.A.C.A.) are hosting a free, one-hour seminar and slideshow, “Protecting Yourself, Your Computer and Your Identity” to be presented by Norbert “Bob” Gostischa.
Payson Care Center has new executive director
Samuel G. Loveless has joined Payson Care Center as its new executive director.
That’s a lot of pizza dough
Pizza Factory celebrates 25 years in Payson
There must be something in the sauce. After 25 years, Payson’s Pizza Factory is still going strong.
21st business showcase promises products for seniors, student showcase
The 21st Annual Business Showcase is March 16 at the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino.
Kutz Etcetera salon reopens in Payson
It has been almost four years since Kutz Etcetera closed, but the salon is back with a new location and new amenities.
Sometimes a happy ending just takes a little time
Fawn was huddled in her kennel, wrapped in blankets and a little sweater.
Community Almanac
The Payson Area Special Olympic Snowshoeing Team will be traveling to Flagstaff to compete in the 2013 Winter Games.
Snowstorm brings activities to a screeching halt
Tonto Village is pretty much hunkered down from the snowstorm, and activities have come to a screeching halt.
Many beautiful places to visit in Arizona
Hello again, fellow Creekers. Gas prices have gone up 32 days in a row and seem to continue to be on the rise.
Park’s bald eagles are awe inspiring
Blessed are we who regularly visit Green Valley Park and have the opportunity to watch America’s national bird, the American bald eagle, mystify us with all its splendor and mystique.
Children put down very deep roots
There are times we try so hard to do the right thing for our kids that we end up getting it exactly wrong.
Beautiful in winter, but ice can be deadly
Pine and Strawberry, in the Arizona Rim Country, are a winter playground of outstanding natural beauty.
Clubs and Organizations
The Payson Flycasters Club meets Saturday, Feb. 23 at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260. Breakfast is at 8 a.m. and the meeting starts at 9 a.m.
Guys just want to have fun too
Remember the Cyndi Lauper classic “Girls Just Want to Have Fun?”
Outdoor expo set for Cards’ home
Outdoor enthusiasts from around the Rim Country, whether they are hunters, anglers, hikers, campers or mountain bikers, are gearing up for an upcoming expo designed to tickle the fancy of all who attend.
Youth hunt for javelina in Unit 23 a success
Over the last decade, the Arizona Game and Fish Department has expanded the youth hunts for a variety of big game including deer, elk, turkey and javelina.
Son passes golf coach torch to his father
The head coaching baton in Payson High golf has been passed — but not very far.
Former coach was right on
Mother Nature thwarts spring sports practices
Huddled inside a Longhorn baseball field dugout as protection from a torrential downpour, former coach Teddy Pettet bemoaned to his players, “You can tell it’s baseball season — the weather has turned bad.”
Levi Armstrong fished his way to a first place
Former Arizona Coaches Association All-Star football honoree Levi Armstrong, a 2002 Payson High graduate, fished his way to a first place showing during the opening day of the FLW EverStart National Guard Western Division bass tournament at Roosevelt Lake.
Thursday, February 21
At The Movies-Identity Thief
A very funny comedy
Comedy is king with “Identity Thief” leading the pack in a big way this weekend with the Zombie flick “Warm Bodies” in its second week coming in a distant second.
Getaway Around Rim Country
Come celebrate the “Last Supper” the way Jesus did. Payson First Church of the Nazarene, 200 E. Tyler Parkway, is hosting a Passover Seder and Dinner at 5 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 24.
Good 2 Go
The Tonto Community Concert Association will host a performance by Jason Coleman, grandson of the legendary Nashville pianist Floyd Cramer, at 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 21 at the Payson High School Auditorium.
Beyond the Books
Public libraries offer Rim residents and visitors lots to love
Books, magazines, a movie or two, maybe even music. We have all enjoyed these kinds of delights at the Payson and Pine public libraries.
Spring break getaways
Spring break can be an ideal time for families to get away and do some bonding.
Eating for Health
February is American Heart Month. Everyone can always do better for their heart health and the following are some ways to improve eating to make sure the beat goes on.
Old-Time Soakings
Every winter it seems like there’s at least one set of good rains that soaks the region while also causing rivers to rise and road crossings to be treacherous.
Hepatitis C
My husband and I are in our 50s. Both of us had an exam this year from different doctors. Blood tests showed that we both have hepatitis C. What is the treatment if we ever do?
Wednesday, February 20
Highway 89 closed near Page after highway buckles
Highway 89 in northern Arizona is closed after a 150-foot section of pavement buckled Wednesday morning about 25 miles south of Page, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
The weather outside is delightful...
A flurry of snow Wednesday morning has closed schools and made highway travel treacherous.
Tuesday, February 19
Library gymnasts leap to success
A gymnastics exhibition at the Payson Public Library Saturday afternoon drew a crowd to watch gymnast Susie Watson and some of her students perform.
Get your tickets for A Taste of Rim Country
It is one of the best parties of the year — every year: The annual A Taste of Rim Country, presented by the Library Friends of Payson.
The problem is simple
“After Sandy Hook, we said that was enough.
Get set for another blast of winter
A gradual warming trend that started last week will end dramatically Wednesday forecasters say when a strong storm system from the northwest will bring cooler temperatures and widespread snow and rain.
Fake singers -- Real performances
5th Annual Lip Sync contest goes viral
Even in this tiny corner of the world, the international viral online hit “Gangnam Style” struck a cord with both judges and the audience, sweeping the awards at the 5th Annual Rotary/Optimist Lip Sync Contest on Saturday, Feb 16.
Sewage to double
Board mulls $16 million plan for build-out
The Northern Gila County Sanitary District board got a first look at a $16 million, phased-in plan to more than double its operating capacity to accommodate a Payson population of some 38,000.
Two fires in two days
Fire officials say two house fires in the last two days illustrate the importance of smoke detectors.
Teachers reveal fears about reforms, job security, testing
New system will link teacher pay, promotions to controversial national test
Teacher’s concerns over a new student test, lack of training and a plan to link teacher pay and job security to student test scores dominated a Feb. 5 town hall on the incoming Common Core national academic standards sponsored by Gila County Superintendent of Schools Linda O’Dell.
Obama incompetent, negligent during Benghazi attack
There was stunning testimony last week at the Senate Armed Forces Committee meeting regarding the attack on our consulate in Benghazi, Libya. It revealed the lack of leadership by President Obama — or rather the abandonment of his duty during the attack.
Reference to dress, etc., was yellow journalism
The Roundup replaced its usual standard of fair and informative reporting with yellow journalism in its report on the arrest of Sheelah Golliglee for possible pot offenses.
Deficits, debt are compromising U.S. military capability
Over the course of my career as a Marine Corps officer, the U.S. military was the most powerful and respected force on the planet because we invested in recruiting the best personnel and providing them with the best training, equipment and leadership. We put that power to good use in defending freedom around the world.
Sanitary district has long-term plan
You’ve got hope. And you’ve got plans. And you’d better hope the plans work out.
FFA students harvest bumper crop of awards
Payson FFA (Agricultural Science) won five first place awards at the Northern FFA District Spring Career Development Event (CDE) this week at an event designed to help students think critically, communicate clearly and compete for jobs.
Water issues boiling in Star Valley
Water is making things boil between the Star Valley Town Council and the Hellsgate Fire District.
Payson approves pipeline purchase
The Payson Town Council last week passed one more resolution to bring C.C. Cragin water to Payson, adding to a lengthy history of council resolutions nearly as long as the pipeline that will deliver the water.
PHS Culinary students compete in Scottsdale
Practice makes perfect and that is what has been going on in the Payson High School culinary classroom.
High school ecology class visits water treatment plant
Sage Pearce held her nose, wrinkled her forehead and squinted her eyes.
New way to buy health insurance
When key parts of the health care law take effect in 2014, there will be a new way to buy health insurance: the Health Insurance Marketplace, which is designed to help you find health insurance that fits your budget.
Remembering our marriage proposals
Love — What a strange thing it is… I hope you all had a happy Valentine’s Day.
Controlled burns will generate smoke this week
Payson Ranger District fire specialists will burn 3,000 debris piles on 200 acres in the Arrowhead Estates area on Tuesday or Wednesday, Feb. 19 or 20, southwest of where they burned debris piles on Feb. 14.
Hoop dancers headline health message
Tonto Apache Health Fair seeks to combat diabetes with education
The Tonto-Apache Tribe hired Cassandra Stouder to educate them on living with Type 2 diabetes and she has not failed them.
Community Almanac
The Payson Public Library is pulling out all the stops for its 2013 Art-rageous Art Fair, which continues through Friday, Feb. 22.
Grant will provide free smoke detectors
Neighborhoods with more calls may qualify for life-saving installations
The Payson Fire Department will soon be going door-to-door in the southeast section of town to install free smoke and carbon dioxide alarms, thanks to a $32,000 federal grant.
Let music lift winter-weary mood
The Tonto Community Concert Association has just the right remedy for that winter-weary mood. The TCCA will host a performance by Jason Coleman, grandson of the legendary Nashville pianist Floyd Cramer, at 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 21 at the Payson High School Auditorium.
PMGA issues invitation to all types of golfers
Longtime Payson Men’s Golf Association member Herb Sherman, also a retired high school teacher and basketball coach, is issuing an invitation to join the PMGA for the 2013 season.
Seed scrimmage a public treat
Rare triple play highlights Horns’ diamond debut
A pair of events that occur about as often as the Arizona Legislature adequately funds public education highlighted the Longhorn baseball team’s season-opening “seed scrimmage” on Saturday morning at PHS diamond.
Show Low Cougars spring upset of the year
The surprising Show Low Cougars sprung the upset of the boys high school basketball season, ambushing Window Rock 49-47 in the second round of the Division III state tournament in Prescott Valley.
Rim anglers shine at WON Roosevelt Lake tournament
A Western Outdoor News (WON) team-fishing tournament at Roosevelt Lake proved to be a stage where a trio of Rim Country angling teams could flex their collective fishing muscle.
Baseball, softball umpires needed
Finding a sufficient number of baseball and softball umpires for the 2013 season is among the unique challenges first-year Payson High School athletic director Don Heizer is facing.
Clubs and Organizations
The Payson Regional Medical Center’s Senior Circle, 215 N. Beeline Highway, will offer chicken cordon bleu, side dishes and a drink at the Member Lunch, set for 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Feb. 20.
Winter Weather Advisory
Currently there is a winter advisory in effect from midnight tonight to 8:00 p.m. MST Wednesday for heavy, blowing snow in Payson and the Mogollon Rim area.
Friday, February 15
Firefighters snuff out chimney fire
Firefighters quickly contained a chimney fire at a Tonto Village home Thursday afternoon, keeping damage to the rest of the home at a minimum.
Frontier on the auction block
School board rejects lease, predicts town won’t grow for at least five years, doubts university prospects
Despite a slew of proposals from the community, the Payson School Board voted to try and sell the former Frontier Elementary School site for $1.25 million at its meeting Monday, Feb. 11, after discussing the matter in two executive session meetings.
Community food drive triumphs
Despite coming up a few cans short, the Fourth Annual Payson Area Food Drive was a huge success and donations will help keep needy families fed for months, organizers declared.
Jury acquits man of assault charges
One juror said sloppy police work, a lack of evidence and conflicting witness statements this week convinced a jury to acquit a Strawberry man involved in a bar fight last year.
Payson economy mends, still lags state
Local sales tax collections rise only slightly, but other revenues recovering
Payson continued its painfully slow recovery in January, with modest increases in almost all of the town’s revenue sources compared to a year ago, according to the town’s just-released January financial report.
We need a blueprint for businesses
Fifteen thousand residents to 38,000? The town doesn’t have enough jobs to support 15,000.
Tired of corporate welfare
Wall Street financial corporations took every advantage of being American when times were tough in 2008.
Undue, unwanted and unnecessary influence
Organizations like the National Rifle Association, the Goldwater Institute, the American Civil Liberties Union, the Democratic National Committee and the Republican National Committee all exert an unearned influence on the politics and policies of our country and state.
Keep the community clean
Who would want to walk around in a dirty place? Nobody.
Outlaw guns in movies and on television
Switchblades are illegal in many states because hoodlums used to use them in movies long ago.
Enjoyed Kartchner Caverns article
Greatly enjoyed the article about Kartchner Caverns by Roundup editor Pete Aleshire (Feb. 8, 2013).
Board should rethink plans to sell Frontier
We fear the Payson School Board is on the brink of a big mistake.
Ongoing changes keeps Rim veterans clinic in limbo
While Dr. Michael Lowe is now serving as the interim primary care provider at the Payson Veterans Affairs Health Care Clinic, the efforts of area veterans to secure a more full-service facility remain in limbo.
SemStream now owned by Alliant Gas
Council frets about rates, service as propane company comes under control of Alliant Gas
With SemStream Arizona Propane now owned by Alliant Gas, the Payson Town Council last week passed a resolution transferring a franchise agreement for propane distribution.
Adventures in skiing
Outdoor Adventure Club gets kids on the slopes to challenge their skills
“Make a wedge with your skis and use your foot to tell your skis to turn,” said Ron, the Sunrise Ski Resort ski instructor.
Arizona nestwatchers have saved 60 nesting bald eagles
Program celebrates 35 years standing watch over expanding population of Arizona eagles
Despite the loss of federal endangered species protection, Arizona’s unique nestwatch program has continued to safeguard a growing population of desert-nesting bald eagles.
Art-rageous Art Fair at Payson Public Library
The Payson Public Library is pulling out all the stops for its 2013 Art-rageous Art Fair over the next few days.
Lip Syncers rap, rhapsodize Saturday
Single and group acts vie for cash awards, laughter in high school auditorium
Selected audience members will pick the $100 Audience Prize winner at the Fifth Annual Lip Sync Contest this Saturday at the Payson High School Auditorium.
Payson Marines elect officers
On Friday Payson’s Rim Country Detachment of the Marine Corps League installed its officers for 2013. The event took place at the Mazatzal Hotel and Casino’s Fireside Room.
Arizona’s DES hires new tribal relations liaison
The Department of Economic Security has hired Mary Huyser as the department’s new tribal relations liaison to help tribal governments and community members deal with the state agency that delivers an array of services to tribes, including members of Payson’s Tonto Apache Tribe.
Rim weather always unpredictable
Hello again, fellow Creekers. It’s been another interesting, but great winter in Christopher Creek.
Second-generation pianist in concert
Next Thursday (Feb. 21) at 7 p.m. in the Payson High School Auditorium, the Tonto Community Concert Association is presenting “The Legacy of Floyd Cramer,” a musical tribute to Cramer by his grandson, Jason Coleman. It promises to be a finger-pounding-ivory good time.
PS School barbecue tonight
A barbecue supper at the Pine-Strawberry School is planned to meet the candidates for the post of school superintendent at 5:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 15. The school district’s governing board is hosting the event.
Everyone needs someone there
As you may or may not know, I do an online forum for the Roundup.
Should you take a pension buyout?
Have you recently received a pension buyout offer? If so, you need to decide if you should take the buyout, which could provide you with a potentially large lump sum, or continue accepting your regular pension payments for the rest of your life. It’s a big decision.
Sign up now for a booth in annual Business Showcase
The 21st Annual Business Showcase will be held March 16 at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Event Center.
New agent at State Farm
There are big changes in the State Farm office.
Community Almanac
Members of the Payson High School Key Club are participating in the Niké Reuse-a-Shoe Program, which requests old athletic shoes be donated through Feb. 15 to be recycled into such things as playgrounds, tracks and basketball courts.
Experts say heart health is in our hands
Medical center hosts overflow session on avoiding our No. 1 killer
The health of our hearts is in our hands — that is the takeaway a packed house at the Senior Circle received from a panel of four experts.
Season is never over for dedicated wrestling coach
The Arizona high school wrestling season wrapped up last weekend and most might believe PHS coach Casey Woodall will be taking a respite from the mat.
Sunflower seeds an admission ticket
Rim Country baseball fans and boosters have the opportunity tomorrow, Saturday, Feb. 16, to preview the 2013 Longhorn team and first-year coach Brian Young.
Examine those fishing rods before the season
Zane Grey, the famous Western author, was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed fishing in all parts of the world including right here in the Rim Country.
WON hosts Avid Angler
The angling duo of Kevin Smith and Todd Belzer solidified their hold on the top spot in the Western Outdoor News (WON) Avid Angler season-long standings by finishing first in a team tournament contested Feb. 9 at Roosevelt Lake.
PHS players in line for postseason honors
While it’s impossible to accurately predict how high school coaches will vote in individual postseason selections, both the PHS boys and girls basketball teams appear to have strong contenders for All-Section III and All-Division III honors.
First impressions can be deceiving in shelter environment
“Adoptable dogs are through the door on the left.” Every time we say those words, it is only a matter of moments before a cacophony erupts — dogs barking, howling and jumping in their kennels.
Clubs and Organizations
Rim Country Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) will meet at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 16 at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260.
Thursday, February 14
At The Movies-Broken City
Crime drama keeps us watching
“Broken City” is a tight, intriguing crime drama set in the seedy, sinful city with two names, New York, New York.
Piano Man
Let music lift YOUR winter-weary mood
The Tonto Community Concert Association has just the right remedy for that winter-weary mood.
Great Backyard Bird Count
For the first time, anyone, anywhere in the world with Internet access can participate in the 16th annual Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) Feb. 15-18.
Loving blooms
Love is in the air and florists are busy filling Valentine’s Day orders, but many consumers have learned the hard way that everything doesn’t always come up roses.
Boutique and smaller ship cruises
If you are one of those persons who remember how the ships and cruising was in the ’70s and ’80s, I may have some good news for you.
Rim Country Places
Chapter 13: Forest Lakes
Many people had never heard of Forest Lakes, Arizona, before the Rodeo-Chediski Fire hit the national news.
Getaway Around Rim Country
The board of directors of the Rim Country Museum is inviting interested residents to join it for a Volunteer Meeting at 1 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 19 on the second floor of the Rim Country Museum.
Good 2 Go
The fifth annual Lip Sync Concert is Saturday, Feb. 16. Doors at the Payson High School Auditorium open at 5:30 p.m., with the concert at 7 p.m.
Art-rageous Art Fair at Payson library
The Payson Public Library is pulling out all the stops for its 2013 Art-rageous Art Fair, which begins Saturday, Feb. 16 and continues through Friday, Feb. 22.
Salt’s notoriety is well-deserved
My son is trying to lose weight. He takes acai berry tablets. Are they harmful? So many diet pills are no good.
Wednesday, February 13
Frontier For Sale
In a unanimous vote, the Payson School Board voted to put the former Frontier School site on the market for the bargain price of $1.25 million at its meeting on Monday, Feb. 11.
Tuesday, February 12
Police bust outlet for medical pot
In a surprise raid, officers arrested the owner of Nature’s Harvest Friday afternoon after a six-month investigation that included undercover stings where officers reportedly bought medical marijuana from two clinics illegally.
Break out the snow shovels
A slow, wet winter storm dumped four to six inches of snow on Payson and more than 10 inches of snow on Pine, shutting down schools across Rim Country, trapping residents in Pine and Christopher Creek and spurring a slew of slide-offs.
The last speller spelling
For the first time in years, a Payson student will represent Gila County at the state Spelling Bee on March 23.
Hydrant costs worry SV
Star Valley is balking at an estimated $2,000-a-year cost of maintaining fire hydrants in The Knolls that the Hellsgate Fire District relies upon to provide fire protection for the community.
Community Almanac
Volunteers with AARP-Tax Aide will be preparing tax returns for low- to moderate-income taxpayers now through April 11.
No more compromise
Three more letters advocating compromise of our fundamental rights: “Compromise and action” by Wendy Trainor; “No threat to disarm citizens” by Noble Collins; and “Gun violence” by Dean Martinson, Roundup, Feb. 8.
The Constitution’s limit on Congress
The Constitution does not permit the federal government to do whatever it deems best.
Mr. Worms takes a look at Rim Country water
The United States Bureau of Reclamation completed a 161-page study in April 2008 called the Mogollon Rim Water Resources — the acronym for the study was MRWRMS (pronounced Mr. Worms).
Kindly lawmakers must love teachers
Well, how thoughtful. The Arizona Legislature is considering instructing science teachers how to teach controversial subjects.
Lawmaker wants science teachers to present both sides of controversy
Critics fear bill will open door to creationists, but law cites need for ‘critical thinking skills’
State Sen. Chester Crandell (R-Heber) is a prime co-sponsor of a bill to require science teachers to explore all sides of scientific controversies, a measure some science educators say could prompt teachers to teach creationism or distort the presentation of controversial subjects like climate change.
Lady D’s uncorking love
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Lady D’s Wine Bar, Chocolate & Art is featuring a sparkling wine from Italy.
Study finds crown fires can permanently kill off forest
Probe of two areas affected by Rodeo Chediski Fire yields grim portents for Rim Country
The ponderosa pine forests consumed in the most intense portions of the 462,000-acre Rodeo Chediski Fire may never come back, according to a long-term study of the slow, often faltering, effort of the forest to repair the damage from the massive blaze.
Rim Country Health expands services
New addition offers rehabilitation and outpatient therapy
Rim Country Health’s new occupational therapist Richard Staudt is helping the facility expand its outpatient services and focus.
Anderson snags state mat gold in Prescott Valley
Father-son duo become first in PHS history to win state medals
Payson High School senior Conner Anderson has joined his dad, Eric, as the only father and son duo inscribed on a Longhorn state championship plaque hanging on the honor wall just outside the Wilson Dome wrestling practice room.
Longhorns’ state hoop bid comes up short in end
There will be no state tournament appearance for the Longhorn boys basketball team.
Girls on to state in Chinle Feb. 13
The Lady Longhorns are advancing to the Division III state tournament as a No. 20 “at-large” seed and will play at 7 p.m. tomorrow, Feb. 13, against No. 13 Chinle.
Roosevelt hosts pro bass tussle
Pirch hopes recent winter storm will swell lake’s waters
Payson’s most accomplished home-grown professional bass tournament angler, Clifford Pirch, was hoping most of last week that rain and snow runoff would help swell the declining waters of Roosevelt Lake, which over the winter has been just about 50 percent full.
Spring sports on the calendar
The winter sports of basketball and wrestling are winding down and Payson High School athletes and coaches are prepping for the spring season.
Clubs and Organizations
Beyond Limits will meet from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 12 at Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, 507 W. Wade Lane. The evening will include a free dinner, music and an inspirational message.
Monday, February 11
Winter weather limits travel
A severe winter storm is making a mess across Rim Country Monday.
Friday, February 8
Whew! SV’s $200,000 survey finished
At the last possible moment, the Town of Star Valley attracted enough participation in a special survey to secure a $200,000 grant from the Arizona Department of Housing.
Blueprint for change
Survey reveals fears about jobs, loss of small-town feel
Residents love the size and feel of Payson, but decry the dearth of jobs, the lack of a town center and the inconvenience of living in a “shopping desert,”.
Music to her ears
Daria Mason earns slot in music teacher Hall of Fame
Daria Mason, Payson High School marching and concert band director, vocci, show and mixed choirs director, Rim Country Middle School choir director, and Payson Choral Society director.
Police halt graffiti rampage
Tip leads to arrest of two Valley men
While it was an open and shut case for police, business owners are still dealing with the aftermath of a graffiti spree this weekend that damaged 15 locations.
Bar fight in Strawberry spurs conflicting accounts
Prosecutor claims vicious beating, defense says victim harassed defendant’s wife
Prosecuting one of his first cases as Gila County’s new chief deputy, Shawn Fuller made the case during opening arguments Wednesday morning that a Strawberry man had beat a man so violently his face caved in.
Considerate driving
Happiness is arriving at Longhorn and McLane at the four-way stop sign; witnessing four cars’ turning lights all at the same time.
I strongly disagree
Re: the recent editorial that said we must have a pathway to citizenship for those 12 million illegals living here.
Compromise and action
I had expected some blowback to my letter regarding gun safety regulations, especially in a conservative town like Payson, but unlike some of the responders, I do not consider them misguided or lacking in intellig
No threat to disarm citizens
The back and forth debate about the Second Amendment may never reach a satisfactory answer.
Gun violence, Sandy Hook and our children
I keep reading letters to the editor, one after the other exclaiming how absolute the Second Amendment to our Constitution is.
Debate looming
The people in the Rim Country are soon to find out if the Republicans “they” voted into office are going to come through for them.
It takes time to turn a tanker
Change drives a sports car. But government’s stuck in the wheelhouse of an oil tanker. T
AARP Foundation offers tax help
Beginning Feb. 1, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax counseling and tax preparation assistance for people of middle and low incomes with special attention given to people over 60.
Relay For Life event struggles to find committee members
Cancer has touched almost everyone through their own struggles — or the battle of a loved one.
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria abounds
Hand washing remains key protection against MRSA bacteria
Monstrous MRSA infections have made headlines; but the doctors first identified the so-called “flesh eating bacteria” in 1961.
Fish and Wildlife Service biologists recapture just-released wolf
With 75 wolves in the wild after a 15-year effort, conservation groups criticize delays
The number of reintroduced Mexican gray wolves in the wild grew from 58 in 2011 to 75 in 2012, according to a federal population survey released this week.
Medical center heart panel helps keep the beat
Feb. 13 panel to explore ways to combat nation’s No. 1 killer
Heart attacks remain the leading killer in the United States, accounting for 600,000 deaths and nearly a million attacks annually.
Northern Gila County roads top priority list for grants
Gila County is jumping into another cycle of requests for federal money to improve roads.
Babbitt urges president to set aside more federal lands
Former Arizona Gov. Bruce Babbitt has called for more active land preservation by the federal government, criticizing what he called Washington’s neglect of public lands.
Police stage pot raid, make one arrest
Payson woman claims she was abiding by medical marijuana law
In a dramatic raid, officers arrested the owner of Nature’s Harvest in Payson on Friday afternoon after a six-month investigation that included undercover stings in which officers reportedly bought medical marijuana from two businesses listed as “pain clinics.” Officers arrested Sheelah Golliglee at her home off East Elk Ridge after a Navajo County jury indicted her for operating a criminal enterprise.
Community Almanac
The Payson High School Longhorn Theatre Company production “Star-Spangled Canteen” is at 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 9 in the high school auditorium. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens.
Please consider a Lonely Hearts member
Adoption fee just $25 for shelter pets who are often overlooked
Sometimes, here at the Humane Society of Central Arizona, we have dogs or cats who get overlooked. They remain at the shelter for months, always being passed over.
Mistakes are made; but no malice intended
If there is one thing I’ve learned about Dennis Pirch in our years and years of friendship, it’s that he’s extremely modest and disdains publicity, preferring it go to others, usually the students or athletes he taught or coached.
Sopeland’s team gears up for memorial run
Hosting the Lorraine Cline Memorial Poker Ride is a labor of love for Laci Sopeland and the bevy of dedicated volunteers who spend countless hours making sure the ride is a first class event.
Pursuit of top honors tips off today
State wrestling tournament has eight longhorn grapplers going for honors
It will take the aerobic capacity of a marathon runner, the strength of a power lifter and the tenacity of a junk yard dog to win an Arizona State Division III “state” weight class championship.
Falcons soar past Lady Longhorns; state fate unknown
Team continues multiple turnover trend which has been bugaboo all season
A 67-28 loss to the Fountain Hills Falcons dashed Lady Longhorn hopes of winning sectional honors and advancing to next week’s Division III “state” tournament as an automatic seed.
Wildlife, fishing grow when water flows
Remember an old Salt River Project commercial, which stated “Arizona Grows When Water Flows”? How true that is, especially when it comes to outdoor recreation in the Rim Country.
Pair scours town for teams to face Ambassadors
Players, coaches and officials needed for April 30 benefit game featuring Harlem team
Mary McMullen and Cameron Davis are looking for a few good men.
Lost Worlds in the living dark
The lost sloth and the vast silence offer a glimpse of extinction and persistence in Kartchner Caverns
I drop back from my little group of amiable explorers, all the way back to where the state park minder watches me warily lest I extend my hand toward the damp, warm, misshapen tissues of stone, which hunker like goblins along the path.
natur Notes
The metal detector beeped and something small, round, and quick scampered from under the white disc. Young Bridger dropped to his knees and scooted in pursuit of the crawly critter.
This is not the world I grew up in, Part 4
Last week we turned on a computer, opened a browsing program, went to the Google site, and clicked on Maps.
Already seeing signs of spring
According to the groundhog in Pennsylvania, we will have an early spring. From what I have observed over the past few weeks, that may be so.
Keep romance in the air all year
The countdown is on. We’re down to single-digit days until the most romantic day of the year is here once again.
Good work by Christopher-Kohl’s Fire Department
On Saturday, Feb. 2 the Christopher-Kohl’s Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 4568 N. Colcord Cove at 6:30 a.m. The structure, a large, metal, two-bay garage with an apartment in the rear of the south bay, was a total loss.
Weather woes close PS Thrift Shop for now
The mid-January cold snap caused severe enough damage at the Pine Strawberry Thrift Shop that it is temporarily closed. The Community Dining Hall is still open Monday through Friday.
Wednesday, February 6
Awaken your heart
This month we celebrate Valentine’s Day — also known as a holiday that could encourage your heart or wound it depending on the circumstances that unfold throughout the day.
Cabin Fever?
The Renaissance Festival is calling
Cabin fever could be setting in just about now. Our ever-changing weather might have you aching to get outside and get the garden going. But hold off.
At The Movies-Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters
Just relax and watch the pictures go by
OK, if you liked “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” you should like “Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters” even more.
Good 2 Go
The latest offerings from the video gaming world will challenge gamers of all ages at Tiger’s Video Arcade, the newest state of the art addition to Mazatzal Hotel and Casino. The arcade features 13 stations with the leading edge titles from Play Station 3, XBOX 360 and Wii.
Lip Sync Contest coming Feb. 16
The fifth annual Lip Sync Contest is Saturday, Feb. 16. Doors at the Payson High auditorium open at 5:30 p.m., with the concert at 7 p.m.
Touring Nevada
Nevada offers visitors a wide range of experiences: from exciting gaming at resort hotels and casinos to snow in the mountain areas. There are memorable dining opportunities, recreation and world-class entertainment.
Complete meals in 30 minutes or less
“What’s for dinner?” It’s often the most dreaded question of the day. Between school, activities, work and life, there are nights the big dinner decision doesn’t happen until the last possible minute.
Moonshiners in Rim Country
The Payson area was known for its moonshine back in the day. The moonshine was called “Payson Dew” and it had a good reputation that went far beyond the region. Here’s a look at this moonshine and the people behind it.
Herpes outbreaks lessen over time
My mother made all her children chew their food at least 25 times. She claimed that it helped food digest. I gave this up when I left home at 18. Is there any evidence that chewing that number of times aids digestion?
Tuesday, February 5
Fire chars garage, apartment
Responding to its first fire of the year, the Christopher-Kohl’s Fire Department put out a garage fire Saturday morning.
Chess master masters movies
Despite his status as an International Chess Master with more checkmates under his belt than probably anyone in Shelby Charter School’s history, Daniel Rensch’s students didn’t really sit up and take notice until he landed a role as a consultant in a Hollywood film.
Gila County’s got a new sheriff in town
Top lawman copes with slew of vacancies; vows to spend half his time in Payson
With vacancies to fill and changes to make just a month after taking office, Gila County Sheriff Adam Shepherd is still settling into what he calls a “hornet’s nest.”
Survey shock
$20,000 survey takes issue with policies, teaching
For $20,000, the Payson Unified School District learned that students work diligently at their desks on the state standards, but don’t actually understand those standards and don’t generally work on higher thinking skills.
Community responsible for Supply Line success
This month we celebrated the eighth anniversary of the Payson Supply Line.
Photo radar enforcement should be based on safety
Many people thought that photo radar on state highways would no longer exist after Governor Brewer decided not to renew the state’s contract a few years ago.
Equal means equal
On Sunday I watched an interesting debate on CNN between a female Army general and a male Army general. They were asked the question “Now that all jobs in the U.S. military are open to women, should they be required to register with Selective Service (draft)?”
Unfortunate lack of manners in Payson
It is an unfortunate situation that some young people in your community are rude and have no manners.
Thanks for so many different holiday gifts
On behalf of all of the residents and staff of Rim Country Health, we would like to thank the following people and organizations for their wonderful generosity in providing presents, caroling, music programs and goodies during the past Christmas season:
Thanks to couple for helping with car stranded in water
Last evening, returning home from a friend’s house at 7:30 p.m. in the evening, I got caught in the overflow of water coming down from the mountain a block before the entrance to my home in Star Valley.
When will the North revolt?
Boondoggle. Roll the word around on your tongue: Boooondogggggle. Now: enunciate the phrase: Gila County Board of Supervisors. See how well that all rolls together?
Lawmaker: Limit size of ammunition clips to counter gun violence problem
A Democratic state senator wants Arizona to ban ammunition clips that hold more than 10 rounds, saying they enable rampages like the ones in Newtown, Conn., Aurora, Colo., and her hometown of Tucson.
Car racing could return to county
County debates another expensive investment in Globe fairgrounds
Car racing could find a home at the Gila County Fairgrounds in Globe, but probably not at the expense of its horse racing track.
Smoke in the air from controlled burns
Payson Ranger District fire crews will burn debris piles in the Verde Glen and Thompson Draw II areas all this week, which could mean smokey afternoons.
To bee or not to bee
Spellers converge, consonants in hand
Can you spell onomatopoeia? Do you need spell check for everything? Students from across Gila County will converge on the Payson High School Auditorium on Feb. 8 to participate in the Gila County Spelling Bee.
PHS theatre company stages comedy
The Payson High School (PHS) Longhorn Theatre Company will present a production of the “Star-Spangled Canteen” on Thursday, Feb. 7 in the auditorium.
Sycamore Creek roads reopening
Roads on the Mesa Ranger District, which have been closed to recent flooding in Sycamore Creek, will re-open this coming Friday and Monday mornings.
Cinch Hook closed to snowplay visitors
Cinch Hook gravel pit at the Highway 87 and 260 junction remains closed to all visitors for the entire winter, despite the heavy snowfall last week.
Tonto Forest plans study of impact of closing roads
After a three-year delay, the Tonto National Forest last week decided to undertake a full-fledged Environmental Impact Statement before deciding which roads to close in a vast network that includes some 5,400 miles of dirt roads in the 3-million-acre forest.
Find more than cookbooks at Payson library
Starting this weekend, you can find more than cookbooks at the Payson Public Library. You will have a chance to learn about cooking with certified clinical nutritionist Peggy Martin.
PHS baseball team selling D-backs tickets
Let’s see, a small-town teenage high school baseball player has the choice of playing a game in faraway Page, where springtime temperatures can chill the bone, or at the magnificent Salt River Fields at Talking Stick which is the spring training home of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies.
Lady Horns’ pursuit of S-III crown begins today
If this is going to be one of those good news, bad news stories, it’s an assumption the good news should come first.
Horns second at sectionals; on to state
Coaches name Anselmo Vasquez outstanding wrestler of tournament
A band of determined Payson High wrestlers grappled their way to a Division III, Section IV second-place finish by producing four weight class champions, eight state qualifiers and the tournament’s outstanding wrestler.
Rec Roundup
This camp offers young wrestlers the opportunity to learn skills from the Payson High School coaches and players.
The time is now to apply for hunting tags
With hunting season winding down and springtime fishing just months away, what do outdoorsmen do to prepare themselves for the year 2013.
Horns to face Cortez in Section III opener
No. 3 seed sports 17-5 record and three-game winning streak
While the Longhorn boys basketball team’s 10-16 regular-season record was not the credentials coach Joe Sanchez and the players were hoping for at the onset of the season, it is good enough to earn the team a berth into the Division III, Section III tournament.
Superintendent says state’s education data system needs $32 million upgrade
Superintendent of Public Instruction John Huppenthal wants $32 million to replace Arizona’s decade-old educational data system, which he said has required extensive upkeep for quite some time.
Clubs and Organizations
The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America will meet at 6 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the American Legion Post #69, located at 709 E. Highway 260.
General plan meeting tonight
The Town of Payson will hold an information symposium Tuesday, Feb. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the library. Town officials will present identified critical issues and guiding principals for a draft update of the town’s general plan.
Friday, February 1
Riding into an epic past
Photographer on the trail of the Hashknife Pony Express finds a buckskin time machine
Lots of people dream of the Old West, but have to settle for movies and daydreams.
Middle school reports on turnaround effort
The Payson School Board got a first look at the still-fuzzy, high-stakes plan to stage a turnaround at the beleaguered Rim Country Middle School (RCMS) when Principal Will Dunman offered an update at the board’s Jan. 28 meeting.
Stupid criminal tricks continue
Police believe Fletcher’s employee staged break-in
A 27-year-old man is likely off the job after reportedly stealing money and then staging a robbery at his work two weeks ago.
Forest Service makes case for fee boost
Residents urge more partnerships to cope with recreation budget shortfall
The top brass from the Tonto National Forest hosted a public meeting to make a case for boosting fees for campgrounds and other facilities to a small, but intently interested group of citizens — who mostly urged the Forest Service to team up with local groups and volunteers.
Capturing images of Rim Country
Readers’ photos rock!
That stunning sunset shot over Green Valley Park lake or the million dollar view from Forest Road 300 — we have all captured moments fit print.
Community Food Drive making final push
The Payson Area Food Drive is wrapping up and organizers hope for one last push for donations this weekend.
Community Almanac
In February thoughts turn to romance and in honor of Valentine’s Day, the Library Friends of Payson Bookstore is featuring paperback romance novels at the incredibly low price of 20 for $1.
Payson, thank you for all your generosity
Hearts seemed to expand during recent weeks when a simple pat on the back, offer to help a neighbor, a cheerful greeting, a few coins tossed into a donation bucket, all tokens of love are extended as one hand reaches to grasp another in a chain of unity among our schools, businesses, organizations, groups and individuals.
Praise for Arpaio
I hope the good people of the Rim Country and Payson write in giving Sheriff Joe Arpaio “kudos and attaboys” for his swift action to protect the students in his jurisdiction.
McCain on bipartisan framework for comprehensive immigration reform
The introduction of these principles is the first step in what will be a very difficult, but achievable, reform to our immigration system.
Time to find some allies
Time to call in the cavalry. Time to find some partners. Time to try some creative solutions.
Senators embrace major immigration reform
Arizona’s two senators joined six others this week to unveil a bipartisan “tough, but fair” plan for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a path to citizenship for some people now here illegally.
Lurching toward moderation — sort of
The fallout from the election continues to roil the political scene — upending established positions on immigration reform, gun control, spending and a host of other issues.
Wilderness day spa
The answer is: “Yes, bears do it in the woods.” My wife I saw one … ugliest thing ever.
Fresh snow on love’s bunny slope
Everyone agrees: Don’t teach your partner to ski. But a reckless writer tests the limits of good advice.
Before we even hit the slopes, friends had all delivered the same stern warning.
Planting seeds of service
Class creates way for wheelchair-bound gardeners to help
It started with one little comment. “An elderly lady asked me last year if we could ever do a garden she could use,” said Glen McCombs, owner of Plant Fair Nursery in Star Valley and volunteer garden advisor at the Payson Community Garden (PCG).
Business Briefs
Carrie Dick of Kevin Dick Investment Management Group has received the Accredited Investment Fiduciary (AIF) Designation from the Center for Fiduciary Studies.
Important dates in the history of real estate
1840 – First account of modern, indoor plumbing. 1867 – The United States purchases Alaska for $7.2 million, the equivalent of 2 cents per acre. No doubt the sellers have remorse.
Fossil Creek Creamery named a top trip
The Phoenix New Times selected Fossil Creek Creamery one of the best “Summer Day Trips.”
Air Patrol’s latest cadet
Christopher Gould takes the oath as a second lieutenant in the cadet division of the Civil Air Patrol in Payson on Tuesday.
Universities striving to do more with less
Presidents of Arizona’s three public universities told lawmakers recently that they have met the state’s mandate to do more with less.
Technology advances gastric treatments
Monitoring systems can look for cancer, gluten sensitivity, intestinal problems from the inside
Investigating gastric distress is getting easier for doctors who are using a pill camera and other technology, Dr. Luis Coppelli told members of the Senior Circle and guests on Jan. 23.
Pastor now chair of supervisors
Mike Pastor is now chairman of the Gila County Board of Supervisors, while Tommie Martin holds the vice chair’s seat.
Payson church hosts jazz quartet Feb. 10
The Beth Lederman jazz quartet performs at 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 10 at the Payson Community Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Main St.
Clubs and Organizations
The Payson Area Computer Association invites all members and guests to its regular monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 1 in the meeting room of the Payson Public Library.
The importance of playtime for your pet and you
Playing and having fun helps us to eliminate stress — and the same holds true for the pets in your life.
And the winner is ...
My totally unscientific and seat-of-the-pants poll of Payson Roundup employees reveals that most here predict the San Francisco 49ers will beat the Baltimore Ravens in Sunday’s Super Bowl.
Horns’ big six need big-time contributions
Payson High wrestlers will be locked in mat wars for all the marbles when they travel tomorrow, Feb. 2, to Higley High School to compete in the Division III, Section IV championships.
Falcons top Lady Horns in the dome
A Fountain Hills’ second quarter blitzkrieg, in which the Falcons outscored the Lady Longhorns 21-8, eventually proved to be the difference in Payson’s 50-40 loss Jan. 29 in Wilson Dome.
Season-ending games to decide postseason fate
Let’s play a game of “What if?” As in what if the Division III, Section III basketball tournaments were to be seeded this morning, Feb. 1, rather than over the weekend when all the regular season results are in?
Dunkin’ in the dome
Ambassadors set to raise money for local charities
The internationally acclaimed Harlem Ambassadors basketball team is headed to Payson and its all for a good cause.
Columnist away
This is a very abbreviated version of Joy Hafford’s Pine-Strawberry column. Some of you may know her husband Richard was seriously injured recently.
This is not the world I grew up in, Part 3
Last week we turned on a computer, opened a browsing program, went to Google, clicked on Maps, and told the machine to show us the Ponderosa Market. Let’s go on from there, OK?
New artist has first show tonight on Main Street
She grew up around art — her mother was an artist. In fact, every summer her mother cleared out the garage and gave art lessons to all the children in their neighborhood.
Weather causes plenty of TV worries
OMG!!! The weather has been just crazy! Just about everyone in Tonto Village has had some kind of issues with this unusual weather.
A basketball carnival is coming
Many moons ago, my small Midwestern town had the wonderful opportunity to host a Harlem Globetrotters basketball game, complete with all the pomp and comedy and showboating talents of the New York-based team, led by the hilarious Meadowlark Lemon and the amazing dribbling prowess of Fred “Curly” Neal.
