Stories for January 2013

At The Movies - Silver Linings Playbook

For movie lovers that want something more meaningful

What a huge difference between a movie nominated for best picture like “Silver Linings Playbook” and the average movie.

New blood

Down the Street features first show of new artist

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.

Favorite vacations for Americans, Part 2

How about Colorado? Beyond the state’s celebrated ski slopes you will find world-class hiking, mountain biking and fishing.

Game-worthy party fare

Game day is no time to be sidelined in the kitchen. Do a little pre-game planning so you can spend less time cooking and more time cheering on the home team.

Rim Country Places

Chapter 12 – Doll Baby Ranch

Driving west around Payson’s Green Valley lakes and past the golf course on Country Club Drive, the pavement ends and the name of the road becomes the Doll Baby Ranch Road.

Shingles pain lingers after rash is gone

Many months ago, my feet turned numb. The numbness has spread up to my knees. It has made me quite unsteady when I walk. My doctor can’t find a cause or treatment for this. Can you suggest anything?

Good 2 Go

The 15th Annual Women’s Wellness Forum, “Straight from the Heart,” is Saturday, March 23 at Payson High School.

Getaway Around Rim Country

Payson Public Library Director Emily Linkey, will present stories and puppet shows for children at 11 a.m. every Saturday.

The three-day, Pacific storm that filled creeks and rivers to overflowing and dumped a foot of snow in the high country should move through the region today, leaving partly cloudy skies tonight and sunny skies on Wednesday.

Cars washed away across region

East Verde, Tonto Creek cut off residents as runoff raises stream levels by 6 feet

A deluge of water from this weekend’s storm put nearly every emergency group to work in one of the busiest weekends seen in years.

Tonto Forest Supervisor: College land sale ‘a top priority’

Bosworth doesn’t expect artifacts to stall sale

Tonto National Forest Supervisor Neil Bosworth believes the Forest Service will complete the review of the sale of land for a university campus in Payson “quickly,” with no extra delays as a result of the discovery of pottery shards and centuries-old rock shelters discovered scattered across the 260 acres.

County superintendent applies for Pine job

Linda O’Dell had hoped to keep her application to the Pine-Strawberry Superintendent position a secret, but in a small town, secrets do not last long.

And to all a good night...

Mister and Mrs. Santa compare notes with some helpful elves at Payson Care Center.

Elderly selling pain medications

Expert says dramatic rise in prescriptions has spurred illegal sales, lethal overdoses

An estimated 40 percent of the elderly are selling their pain medications to supplement their Social Security incomes.

Community Almanac

Kaitie’s Closet will distribute children’s clothing from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 30 at Payson Elementary School, 500 E. Rancho Road.

School district full of federal flunkies

Taxpayers need to look in to the Payson school system.

A reasonable position

I am writing in support of the well-written letter by Wendy Trainor.

The Second Amendment is for everyone

Another writer falls for the misguided and thoroughly discredited theory that “a well-regulated militia” somehow restricts the right to keep and bear arms.

Help with blood drive appreciated

We want to thank all of you who donated at the recent Payson Community Blood Drive.

People not entitled to choose facts regarding Second Amendment

Words have meaning. The meaning can be culture sensitive, time (era), context sensitive.

Where is understanding of the Constitution?

I am amazed that otherwise apparently intelligent adults have so little understanding of the Constitution.

Domestic violence: Not now, not ever

A jury made short work of a Pine man’s attempt to justify domestic violence.

Hospice medical director earns specialty credentials

James W. Schouten, M.D., a local family medicine physician and medical director of Hospice Compassus – Payson, recently earned a sub-specialty certification in Hospice and Palliative Care from the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM).

Payson High School DECA Chapter wins big at district

Payson High School’s DECA Chapter participated in the Arizona DECA Central District Competition in January. Forty-seven PHS students attended and brought home 42 individual awards.

Tonto Rim Search and Rescue saves pair of shivering hikers

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park was the site of a dramatic rescue this weekend after rising waters in Pine Creek trapped two hikers during a heavy downpour.

The Mother Road revealed

‘Hip Historian’ examines how Route 66 became an American icon in Pine Library presentation

Calling himself the “Hip Historian,” Marshall Shore entertained listeners crowded into the Pine Library Activity Room by spinning tales of iconic Route 66 and the role it played in John Steinbeck’s 1939 novel “The Grapes of Wrath.”

Payson PD needs volunteers

The Payson Police Department is looking for a few good men — and women. The pay? That warm feeling only found from volunteering.

Hashknife riders en route

Relish rowdiness, honor tradition of the Pony Express

It’s Hashknife time. The 55th Annual Hashknife Pony Express comes to Payson Wednesday, Jan. 30.

Annual chefs’ competition is March 9

A Taste of Rim Country features fine flavors to raise funds for library

Join the Library Friends of Payson and its supporters at the annual A Taste of Rim Country Saturday, March 9.

Black and White Ball: Dancing the night away

Mogollon Health Alliance fund-raiser draws a crowd

No one could miss them as they danced every dance — she in a violet sheath dress, he in a white shirt and tie.

All area ‘elder’ basketball players wanted

Basketball is great stuff — even for senior citizens.

Intermediate Little League could come to Rim

Payson Little League is exploring the possibility of fielding for the first time ever, an Intermediate (50/70) division that bridges a player’s transition from Little League (40/60) Minor/Major play to Junior League Baseball, which is played on a full-sized (60/90) field and with different rules.

Lady Horns on the hunt for payback tonight

Lady Longhorn players take a three-game winning streak and hopes for a bit of payback to the Wilson Dome court tonight, Jan. 29, when they will host a Fountain Hills team (17-3) that whipped PHS 53-29 on Dec. 18.

Coach has high expectations for Longhorn wrestlers

Payson High wrestling coach Casey Woodall oozes confidences over his current Longhorn team insisting the squad will be a memorable one by the time the season tournament wraps up in two weeks at the state finals in Prescott Valley.

Basketball crunch time

It’s crunch time in high school basketball.

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.

Gila County picking battles with state

The new legislative session offers a high-stakes battleground pitting the finances of hard-pressed counties against the recovering state budget.

Chopper salvaged from lake

A Lake Havasu-based recovery company exhumed the twisted remains of a helicopter from the watery tomb of Roosevelt Lake Monday, weeks after it crashed into the lake nearly killing three people on board.

Man convicted in beating case

Quick verdict in domestic violence case could come with 24-year prison term

After listening to two days of testimony, a Gila County jury last week found a Pine man guilty of assaulting a teen with a frying pan after only 17 minutes of deliberation.

New staff joining county attorney’s office

Along with a new prosecutor comes a host of changes and new faces to the county attorney’s office.

Wet weather should continue through weekend

Clouds gathered over Rim Country Thursday morning, delivering a spatter of raindrops on cars, houses and heads a day ahead of schedule.

Up, up and away

Many a Rim Country resident lifted eyes skyward into the twilight Jan. 23 as the hot air balloon, Spirit, glided over Payson and settled down in an empty lot between Earhart and Chennault Parkways near the airport.

Payson Supply Line still on the front line

Sometimes, it’s the little things. Sometimes, it’s the thought that counts.

Suns show lack of loyalty to Majerle

Reciprocated loyalty must be a character trait the Phoenix Suns management team knows little about.

Macnab leads Horns’ charge into sectionals

Payson High wrestlers will battle in probably the most competitive section in Division III when they travel Feb. 2 to Higley High School for the S-IV championship tournament.

Power points hold key to Lady Horns’ hoop fate

Payson in reasonably good position to qualify for sectionals

With the high school girls basketball regular season winding down, Lady Longhorn coach Jen White and her players are keeping close watch on the all-important power points rankings hoping to qualify for the Section III tournament that begins Feb. 5 in Surprise.

Rec Roundup

A free Basketball Bonanza is set for 9 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Rim Country Middle School gym.

Go-Girls second in Show Low

The Rim Country’s off-season volleyball scene continues to heat up with the Club Payson 17-years team playing its way to a first place finish in an Arizona regional tournament and another local club team taking second in a nine-team Go-Girl tournament held in Show Low.

Stage musical spells Horns’ dilemma

“I say, trouble right here in River City” is a lyric from “The Music Man” that could pertain to Payson even though we’re not a city and the closest river is the Verde.

The world’s best salesmen

The gun industry and their mouthpiece in this country, the NRA, are the world’s best salesmen

Immigration: Treat the problem at its source

So many issues, so little space. Here is just one of them:

Keep and bear arms

Can Congress legally pass a law to restrict “rights”?

No difference between gun and abortion legislation

All this talk about gun control has got me thinking.

After vigorous debate, GCC board to keep lobbyist — for now

Following a tense exchange, the Gila Community College (GCC) governing board voted to keep their longtime lobbyist — for now.

Payson Motor Vehicle Division office moving to new location

The Motor Vehicle Division of the Arizona Department of Transportation announced the opening of a new office in Payson. Beginning on Monday, customers in northern Gila County and the surrounding areas will visit a new, larger Payson office.

Man missing: Foul play suspected

Police want the public’s help in locating a missing Riverside, Calif. man whose vehicle was found abandoned on Highway 60 near the Salt River Canyon.

Community Almanac

The Payson Motor Vehicle Division office is moving to the Payson Village (Bashas’) shopping center.

DPS sergeant based in Payson

With 140 square miles now under his supervision, Department of Public Safety Sgt. Erik Axlund has a few new roads to learn.

Avoiding the flu is vital for seniors

Following these simple steps may keep flu away from vulnerable elderly

Visiting Angels, one of the nation’s largest in-home senior care companies, has tips to help seniors fight the flu.

Council makes move to beautify Star Valley

The Star Valley Town Council is inviting residents and all interested parties to volunteer for a new beautification committee.

Clubs and Organizations

The Payson Flycasters Club will meet Saturday, Jan. 26 at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260.

These and other pets need a home

These any many other homeless pets are available for adoption at the Humane Society of Central Arizona animal shelter, 605 W. Wilson Court (just south of Main Street), open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wildlife-based recreation on the rise

Survey shows 90 million Americans engaged in hunting, fishing, wildlife watching in 2011

Wildlife-related recreation spending increased between 2006 and 2011, according to a survey by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), good news for tourist-dependent Rim Country.

Perched on life’s edge

A grieving writer finds comfort atop a limestone layer that remembers both the Great Dying and life’s blind persistence

I go to the Rim when I need to recalibrate. So I stand now once more on this edge. The wind blows keen, prying into the seams of my clothes, whispering of vanished worlds and unexpected death.

Business owners planning year’s events

The festival season may not be on the minds of too many people in January, except for the members of the Pine Strawberry Business Community (PSBC), who know that it’s never too early to think about festivals.

Jump in temperatures sings spring

The month is going too fast. Next week is the last week of January!

Memory benches growing in the park

A couple of months or so ago, while on my cool-down-from-jogging lap around Green Valley Park, I noticed what appeared to be a new park bench on the lake’s north side, with a shiny plate attached to the middle of the bench’s back.

Great activities all year in Christopher Creek

Hello again fellow Creekers. There are many things to do in the Mogollon Rim area and Christopher Creek to enjoy all four beautiful seasons.

This is not the world I grew up in, Part II

Last week we talked about how much easier it has become to keep in touch with each other.

Police looking for man missing under suspicious circumstances

Police are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing Riverside, Calif. man whose vehicle was found abandonded on Highway 60 near the Salt River Canyon.

Rain in Forecast

Clouds gathered and by 9:30 a.m. on Thursday morning the pitter-patter of drops fell on cars, houses and heads. “This wasn’t supposed to happen until Friday,” said residents as they scurried for cover.

Hashknife time

Relish rowdiness; honor the tradition of Pony Express

It’s Hashknife time. The 55th Annual Hashknife Pony Express comes to Payson Wednesday, Jan. 30.

Harvey Granville Bush and The Bush Highway

The 1920s were a roaring time in America. Times were good and the automobile was growing in popularity.

At The Movies-Zero Dark Thirty

A riveting, powerful film

“Zero Dark Thirty” is a grim depiction of the war that Al Qaeda declared against the United States in 1998 and continues to this day.

Favorite vacations for Americans

We like to travel! Oh boy, do we! Our vacation budget often determines how far we can travel, how we travel and where we can afford.

Heart-smart recipes to love

Eating for heart health is actually easier — and more delicious — than you might think. When you have a good plan and plenty of mouthwatering recipes, you’ll enjoy taking care of your heart.

Soaking night sweats are daily torment

This year I retired, at age 66. Since retirement I’ve been tormented with drenching sweats nightly. I mention the retirement because it’s the only thing in my life that has changed. Could there be a connection?

A little bit better

Governor’s budget includes small increases for schools, child protection

Gov. Jan Brewer’s already controversial budget plan would provide more money for schools and Child Protective Services — but link school funding increasingly to student test scores.

In harm’s way

Two sons have served five combat tours

As Susan Butler talked to her son, Michael, on the phone he suddenly heard shouting in the background: “Incoming! Incoming!”

Illegal woodcutting provokes fine, jail time

A Cornville resident was recently ordered to pay $1,000 and spend a week in jail for illegal woodcutting, interfering with the law and resisting arrest.

Supply Line serves 36,000

The Payson Supply Line — a grassroots effort that sends comfort and care packages to military personnel in war zones — celebrates its 8th anniversary this month as it nears a tally of 1,800 boxes mailed to Afghanistan and Iraq.

New members, old faces

Pine water board meets to pick Pugle, seat Schwalm

The Pine-Strawberry Water Improvement District governing board Thursday night seated two new members very familiar with the water woes that have swirled through the two mountain hamlets for years.

Man jumps down mine shaft in Meteor Crater to ‘appease the Gods’

Emergency crews rescued Parminder Singh, 28, of Union City, Calif. from the floor of a vertical mine shaft in the bottom of Meteor Crater.

Courts rule in favor of school funding – but that could change

Arizona’s financially strapped schools won a victory in the Arizona Court of Appeals, but Payson’s school administration isn’t holding its breath since the attorney general will appeal the decision.

Payson groove a good fit

Town’s new events planner escapes the bustle of the Valley to plot recreation and tourism comeback for Rim Country

David Roehrig first experienced Payson from the cockpit of a Chaparral Pines golf cart — now he works in the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department as the new event planner.

Pollution controls spur debate

The Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to give the Navajo Generating Plant an extra five years to install $1.1 billion worth of pollution control equipment has spurred harsh criticism from some lawmakers and praise from environmental groups.

Lag in surveys could cost Star Valley $200,000 federal grant

Star Valley residents served by the Milky Way Well could face higher water bills if the town does not get enough of them to participate in a survey due by Jan. 31.

Helicopter recovered from Lake Roosevelt

A helicopter that crashed into Lake Roosevelt in December has been recovered.

Time Out shelter gets a little help

Gila County considering awarding $10,000 grant to beleaguered local domestic violence shelter

The struggling Time Out domestic violence shelter in Payson may soon get an urgently needed $10,000 grant from Gila County.

School calendar passed – finally

After oodles of input, the Payson school board overhauled the school calendar.

Clubs and Organizations

The New Hope Grief Support Group is for those who have lost a spouse.

Lady Horns looking to bounce back vs. Heber

Lady Longhorn basketball team members play host tomorrow, Jan. 23, to Heber Mogollon, hoping to shake off any doldrums that might have been incurred Jan. 18 in a 71-42 loss to Salt River.

Wrestling event a real boon to town economy

Kudos to Payson Invitational Wrestling Tournament Director Don Heizer, PHS coach Casey Woodall and all the volunteers who helped put on a fantastic high school athletics event Friday and Saturday in Wilson Dome.

PHS senior rocks ’n’ rolls through marathon

Payson High School senior Jordyn Fruth hails from a family of runners — her mother, Carolyn, has competed in the Boston Marathon and has her sights set on the New York Marathon .

Horns battle to PI silver

Rival Snowflake wins bragging rights in wrestling tournament

It’s been a given over the past few decades that when the Payson Longhorns and Snowflake Lobos clash, no matter what the sport or the competitive level, sparks are sure to fly.

WON director fired up about bass tourney

Lady Longhorn basketball team members play host tomorrow, Jan. 23, to Heber Mogollon, hoping to shake off any doldrums that might have been incurred Jan. 18 in a 71-42 loss to Salt River.

Mexican gray wolf to be released

For the first time in four years, a Mexican gray wolf will be released into the forest of eastern Arizona to expand the population and genetic strength of the endangered species.

Suicide support group still listening

When the suicide support group Lost Loves started more than a year ago, the group’s founder never dreamed of the healing it would offer others or herself.

Report: Arizona has nation’s sixth-highest prescription drug abuse rate

Arizona had the sixth-highest level of prescription pain-reliever abuse in the nation in 2010-2011, according to a recent government report.

Community Almanac

The Payson Motor Vehicle Division office is moving to the Payson Village (Bashas’) shopping center.

Transition Town comes to Payson

Last spring a small group of people in Payson learned about “Transition Town” — a movement that began in Totnes, England, to respond to the challenges of climate change, escalating prices, resource depletion, and economic instability.

Governor’s plan: At least stop digging

First step to getting out of real, deep hole: Stop digging. Gov. Jan Brewer’s proposed budget seems to meet this first, common sense bit of advice when it comes to recovering from a four-year financial catastrophe.

‘Well regulated’ are words in the Second Amendment

In the discussion of gun rights there are many references to the phrase “the right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.”

AARP commends Gov. Brewer for Medicaid stance

AARP Arizona would like to thank Governor Brewer for her decision to support the expansion of the Medicaid program in the state, better known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System.

Firefighter retiring

I’m at the end of my career with Payson Fire Department and will be retiring the end of January.

Our website servers will be updated this evening, some service interruption may occur. We appreciate your patience.

Debate looming

Lawmakers dubious about governor’s AHCCCS plan

Rim Country residents without health insurance could reap big benefits from Gov. Jan Brewer’s decision this week to buy into the federal Affordable Care Act — providing Republicans in the state Legislature go along with her plan.

Keeping kids safe

Schools want grants to put officers back on campus

Hoping to avoid the unspeakable tragedy of Sandy Hook Elementary, Governor Jan Brewer this week promised money for the lagging School Resource Officer (SRO) program, which puts an armed police officer on campus to provide both protection and education.

Medical center seeing more flu

Payson Regional Medical Center is seeing an increase in emergency room visits by people with the flu.

Tonto Forest ponders jump in fees

Forest Service seeking to eliminate $900,000 budget deficit

Tonto National Forest wants to overhaul its whole recreation program to eliminate a $900,000 budget shortfall.

Community Almanac

The Payson Motor Vehicle Division office is moving to the Payson Village (Bashas’) shopping center.

Rim Country gets to put on the glitz

Get out the glitz — it’s time for the annual Black & White Ball. This year it’s a Chicago-style celebration. Gangster garb anyone?

FS to ‘mitigate’ impact of land sale

Comment period closes, but schedule for sale of site for a university still unclear

The comment period on the environmental assessment of the sale of 260 acres of federal land for a university campus in Payson expired last week.

GCC offers art history class taught by artist

Gila Community College for the first time has launched a new art history class taught by an award-winning artist, a key addition to allow students to complete a new degree in art.

Where is the asteroid story?

Recently the Wall Street Journal had a half-page article about the rather large asteroid that will be passing between the earth and moon.

What is a militia?

In the dictionary it reads, “An army composed of citizens, rather than professional soldiers.”

Community generosity was astounding

We and the Clawson family would like to thank the people of Payson for all of their support in making the Cowboy Christmas fund-raiser a huge success.

Secret Santa appreciated

I just wanted to take the time to somehow show my appreciation and to thank my Secret Santa!

Governor offers sensible plan

Gov. Jan Brewer has proposed a reasonable plan to use mostly federal money to expand the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System to some 300,000 citizens.

New taxes with the fiscal cliff deal

Congress has approved a poorly constructed tax bill to avoid the “fiscal cliff.”

Here we go again

I find it ironic that the Obama administration is now trying to put in place steps to ban weapons in this country.

Christmas bird count reports record tally

A hardy band of 18 volunteers counted a record 5,083 birds of 85 different species just north of Payson this year as part of the National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count.

Above and below

A happy dog and a hapless writer match snowshoes against brute strength

Lobo bounded across the frozen meadow, joy personified.

Meditation book group selects next book

The Meditation Book Group on Jan. 28 will begin coverage of “Falling into Grace — the End of Suffering,” a focus that will continue for until June 3.

Group will address seniors’ concerns

Several groups have formed to address the needs of seniors, which comprise about a quarter of Payson’s population.

Big retailers ready to open in Payson

Work to open two new big box stores in Payson is well under way.

Clubs and Organizations

For anyone with a love for Wisconsin — the new Wisconsin Club will meet for breakfast at 7:30 a.m. Monday, Jan. 21 at Tiny’s, 600 E. Highway 260.

Trap-Neuter-Return helps reduce outdoor cat population

Have you noticed more cats in your area lately? Cats typically mate in the winter, which leads to “kitten season” in the spring — a sudden increase in cat populations.

P-S water board seats two new board members, names Pugel chair

The Pine-Strawberry Water Improvement District governing board Thursday night seated two new members very familiar with the water woes that have swirled through the two mountain hamlets for years.

It’s not the world I grew up in

How many times have you heard someone say that the world has changed since he was born? How many times has a sad shake of a head gone with those words? Quite a few, I’ll bet.

Amazing school food service workers

When we think of members of the school staff that play a significant role in the lives of our children — teachers, coaches, counselors, administrators and office personnel come to mind.

Motown coming to Rim Country

Move it on over, rock ’n’ roll oldies. Get out of the way, classic rock. Step aside, blues and jazz. Motown is coming to town!

Hashknife riders due in Christopher Creek

Hello again, fellow Creekers. The Hashknife Pony Express will be in Christopher Creek again this year for their 55th annual ride.

We were just wondering about winter

Brrr! Talk about being cold! Tonto Village has experienced frozen pipes, drafty windows and plenty of icy streets.

Little League registration starts tonight

The process of fielding a 2013 Payson Little League program begins today, Jan. 18, and continues through tomorrow with player registrations inside Big 5 Sporting Goods.

Lady Horns win; boys fall to BR

Hill is a one-player wrecking crew against Jackets

Payson High School basketball teams turned in heavily contrasting performances Jan. 15 in Wilson Dome against longtime rival Blue Ridge.

Club Payson spikes region title

Club Payson 17-years volleyball team overcame the loss of several key players to finish first in the opening round of the Arizona Region’s championship division tournament.

Tournament adds Marines, two schools

Mogollon, Mountain Pointe and the U.S. Marines are late additions to the Payson Invitational Wrestling Tournament.

Grapplers shine in Tucson

If Payson High School wrestlers compete this weekend in the Payson Invitational with the same intensity and passion they did in finishing third last week at the 20-team Tucson Catalina tournament, the Longhorns will undoubtedly contend for medal honors.

Tips for avoiding, treating the flu

Health officials are reporting widespread influenza outbreaks in 47 of 50 states, including in Arizona, and the American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter urges people who haven’t received a flu shot to quickly get vaccinated. The Red Cross also has steps people can take to prevent the spread of the virus during what’s the worst flu outbreak in the U.S. in several years.

Rim Country Red Cross gets van

The volunteers with the area Red Cross have a new tool with which to serve residents and visitors. The group is getting a Red Cross van Wednesday, Jan. 23.

New walking group features daily outing

When Mary Mastin wakes up in the morning, what gets her out of bed is knowing somebody will be waiting to take a walk with her.

Community Almanac

Join Greg Rose for free introductory sessions of Qigong at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 15 and 22 at Payson Healing Arts Center, 616 N. Beeline Highway.

Fireman injured battling blaze

A firefighter is nursing his wounds and a family is picking up the pieces after a house fire this weekend.

Traffic stop spurs drug bust

Payson Police say a routine traffic stop Wednesday afternoon netted nine grams of heroin.

Tragic pattern

Tag-team beating highlights domestic violence trends, statistics

The arrest last week of two men for allegedly beating, strangling and imprisoning a Payson woman illuminated the tragically common pattern of domestic violence cases in Rim Country.

Shepherd quits

County will fill Payson School Board vacancy

With two more years in her tenure, Payson Unified School District board member Barbara Shepherd has resigned from her position.

Payson makes pitch for Frontier’s future

Payson School Board hears plans for unused school

Neighbors to the mothballed Frontier Elementary School site could see anything from a police and fire department training center to a church filling up the empty hallways.

Freeze bursts pipes

This weekend’s chilly winter temperatures wreaked havoc on a number of businesses and homes, with water pipes bursting across town, and Monday’s low temperature dipping to 5 degrees.

Drought can kill trees even after rainfall resumes

Warming trend likely to kill millions of trees, force wholesale ecosystem changes across Rim Country

The era of deeper, longer droughts predicted for the Southwest will spur widespread, landscape altering tree deaths .

Clubs and Organizations

This group has no dues. Its Tuesday Morning Breakfast Bunch meets at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260, every week at 9 a.m. to visit and plan future activities.

Grateful to all who helped during house fire

We would like to thank the Payson, Hellsgate and Houston Mesa Fire Departments.

Thanks to APS for raptor proofing power poles

We live in a rural area in Tonto Basin. Among our wildlife are two great horned owls who are blessing us with nesting in our back yard.

Life

Life — without it, nothing else matters.

Teachers should be held accountable

Been a long time coming. Way too long. But it’s a very good thing.

Shaping a better Arizona for the future

Arizona’s potential for future prosperity is enormous if our leaders are bold, focused, courageous and collaborative.

School district shows welcome openness

The Payson School Board has operated with a refreshing and much-needed openness since Superintendent Ron Hitchcock took over.

Time to clean house — January is Get Organized Month

January is Get Organized Month, time to clean out files, closets, the pantry and if you are really in a cleaning frenzy, even the garage.

PCS newsletter wows community

From dragon to deadlines, teen team resurrects school newsletter

Breanna James and Jake Marr did not know each other, even though they both attend Payson Center for Success (PCS), but after spending hours putting together the school newsletter, they now consider themselves brother and sister.

Marauders no match for Horns

Second time’s the charm for Payson against Mingus

Longhorn basketball players shrugged off the disappointment of a gut-wrenching 77-76 overtime loss to Show Low on Jan. 8 to three days later pound visiting Mingus 77-64.

Presentation on Alaskan sled dogs tonight

Don’t forget tonight to stop by Mountain Bible Church this evening, Jan. 15, to enjoy Dr. Alan Hallman’s sure to be excellent seminar on the Iditarod sled dog race.

Lady Horns locked in power points race

Lady Longhorn basketball players travel today, Tuesday, Jan. 15, to Lakeside hoping to improve on their 9-6 record and garner the all-important power points that would come with a victory over the Blue Ridge Yellow Jackets.

Public recreation meetings continue

A series of public recreation sustainability meetings continue this month and into next.

Volunteers backbone of bass tournament

Hosting a professional bass fishing tournament in rural Arizona takes months of meticulous planning and organizing — just ask any member of the FLW EverStart Payson Volunteer Committee.

Throwback Night at PHS

Longtime Longhorn sports fans will fondly remember the high school wrestling duals held from the mid-1970s through the early 2000s that drew standing room only crowds to old PHS gym and Wilson Dome.

Non-profit representatives invited to Jan. 16 workshop

Learn about fund-raising event

Rec Roundup

3rd & 4th Grade Youth Basketball registration is open until Jan. 11.

More time for fraud than murder

In response to William Clayton’s letter, I might add Sherri L. Dashney, found guilty of fraud and bad checks

Recognition due many for bright holidays

Gauging the response at Tall Pines Market from both residents and visitors who came to play in the snow, holiday decorations along both sides of Christopher Creek loop were a delight!

Liberal and gun hater not the same thing

Being a liberal and gun hater should not be tarred with the same brush.

National safety should not be compromised

I’ve been reading plenty lately about how the F-35 fighter jet will be the target of federal budget cuts.

From one tight-knit community to another

The tragic events in Newtown, Conn. on Dec. 14 rocked the nation. It was nearly, if not totally impossible, to comprehend.

Advice on reform, bathtub donkeys

The folks who brought you the fiscal cliff, the incredible growing deficit and Arizona’s ban on both camel hunting and letting donkeys sleep in bathtubs now want to reform public schools.

Year-end statistics show huge bump in P-S home sales

The Rim Country real estate market in 2012 gave us cause for optimism as the market bottomed out.

Tymeless Antiques & Treasures expands

With an overflow of treasures, Tymeless Antiques & Treasures has expanded into a new shop in Pine.

Lip Sync auditions slated for Jan. 16

Auditions are around the corner for the fifth annual Lip Sync Contest scheduled for Feb. 16.

Close call for a creeped out cat

Maybe it was some belated feline New Year’s celebration, but it led to a harrowing experience for Ween, an 8-year-old tabby, and his “mom,” Kelly Brooks.

Masters of Motown offers musical history lessons

Rim residents of a certain age know the “Motown Sound” to their core.

School board faces hot issues

The two new school board members, Shirley Dye and James Quinlan, will jump into the job with both feet at the Monday, Jan. 14 .

Bundle up

Today’s winter storm should bring a high of 39 degrees and lows around 16, according to the National Weather Service.

Proud as punch of Payson

Payson snatched a moment of calm before the storm on Thursday to celebrate its award-winning Fiesta Bowl Parade float — and to honor the hundreds of volunteers and businesses that made it possible.

Student tests test teachers

Payson schools shifting teacher grading system

The Payson School Board has taken a key first step toward linking teacher job security to student test scores as it scrambles to adapt to new state and federal standards.

Nasty flu bug spreading quickly

Although Gila County still has only two officially confirmed flu cases, health providers say the flu is spreading “like wildfire” throughout the community.

Injured pedestrian rushed to hospital

A man was flown to a Valley hospital Wednesday afternoon after a vehicle struck him in Payson.

Lunkers will lurk in Green Valley Park

Check the weather and grab a fishing pole — Green Valley Park lakes will get some monster trout this weekend.

Community Almanac

The Payson AARP Tax-Aide program needs volunteers for computer preparation of federal form(s) 1040 and Arizona form(s) 140 for Tax Year 2012.

Smell no Evil

Bored elk hunter discovers limits of modern technology

Sitting quietly in my elk blind, I texted my sister.

Laying claim to winter

Snowshoeing unlocks the backcountry – so long as you actually wear them

A native Tucsonan, I am still getting used to all the white stuff that falls in Rim Country every winter.

Police arrest man for transporting heroin

Police say a routine traffic stop Wednesday afternoon netted nine grams of heroin. Nathan O’Donnell of Payson was arrested and charged for possession of narcotic drugs.

Clubs and Organizations

The Rim Country Celts January meeting is at 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 12 at Alice Natales’ home.

Become a volunteer and make a difference today

Are you an animal lover? Do you want to make a difference in animals’ lives but don’t know where to start?

Discovering generosity is contagious

For the past two weeks we’ve been talking about the first few days Lolly and I spent up here in Pine. As you know, if you have been reading the column, they were very special days.

Rim Country snow survival

This week, I’d like to share a tip for any refugees from the desert who could use a refresher course in Snow Survival 101 (For Dummies)!

More cold weather coming our way

Is it cold enough for you? If not, wait a few days; the weather people say that it will be getting colder.

How are those resolutions going?

Gosh, we’re already a week-and-a-half into 2013, which means many of us are either basking in the joy, experiencing the agonizing pain or have already thrown in the towel on our New Year’s resolutions.

Despite storms, fires still pose danger in forest

Despite the recent flush of snow and rain, fire remains a danger in Rim Country, the Forest Service warned recently.

Local vet to give program on Iditarod

For the second time in less than a year, Shoot for the Heart attendees will have the opportunity to hear a Star Valley man tell of his adventures as one of the lead veterinarians on the two most prestigious sled dog races in the world.

Elvis Classic sums up Horn loss

One-point defeat against Show Low lands PHS boys in ‘Heartbreak Hotel’

Phoenix Suns play-by-play announcer Al McCoy was known for his catch phrases that included “Shazam!” every time a Suns player made a 3-point shot and “Heartbreak Hotel!” when a player missed a shot by a hair or Phoenix lost a close game.

Donnel paces PHS to win over Cats

The Lady Longhorn express is back on track and steaming toward a possible berth in the postseason.

The road to the big dance is uncertain

Confusion exists around the state, even among coaches, on what it will take for high school basketball teams to earn berths into season-ending section and division (state) tournaments.

Hear Frontier Elementary proposals tonight

Rim Country residents interested in the fate of Frontier Elementary may speak their minds this evening at 5:30 p.m. in the District offices.

Waxing nostalgic

Masters of Motown offer musical history lessons

Rim residents of a certain age know the “Motown Sound” to their core.

Vacations to go!

Since we are already in a new year, some readers are already beginning to plan a vacation for spring and summer.

Make broccoli a family favorite

If you’re looking for delicious ways to bring more nutrition to the family table, it’s hard to beat broccoli.

At The Movies-Les Miserables

An artistic triumph

Rarely has a film been so aptly titled. I felt like I had stumbled into some French nightmare version of one of those interminable Russian novels where everyone suffers horribly only to die in some picturesque but pointless way.

Payson in the 1950s

The 1950s were a period of growth and change in the Payson region that would lay the groundwork for much more future growth.

Chicago is theme of Black and White Ball

The annual Black and White Ball, sponsored by the Mogollon Health Alliance, takes its theme from the history of the third largest city in the United States.

Hear Pancrazi jazz quartet Jan. 13

Jazz guitar vocalist Pete Pancrazi and his quartet will perform at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 13 at Community Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Main St., Payson.

Good 2 Go

During the month of January, the Library Friends of Payson Bookstore is featuring a storewide clearance sale.

Teenagers often make acne worse

I am 17 years old. I have pimples all over my face. The only thing that helped was an antibiotic, but it made me sensitive to sunlight. My parents don’t want me to continue to use an antibiotic. Can you help?

Green Valley Lake getting stocked with "super-sized trout”

How does catching a 3-pound rainbow trout sound? How about catching that trout close to home? This weekend, Game and Fish will stock Green Valley Lake, and other urban lakes in the Valley and Tucson, with whoppers. All you need is a 2013 Urban Fishing license and a pole to try your luck.

Food drive enters the home stretch

The Payson Food Drive is struggling here in the home stretch. With only weeks to go, backers have raised $38,000 in cash and gathered up 33,000 pounds of food. This compares to a goal of $50,000 in cash and 65,000 pounds of food.

See the Pride of Payson

The Town of Payson’s Park, Recreation and Tourism Director Cameron Davis would like to invite Rim Country residents to a party to celebrate the amazing efforts the community made for the Fiesta Bowl Parade.

Hollywood buzz at the Beeline Cafe

BMW, The Picture Lab and Reel Men rode into town in a caravan of vehicles, equipment and people. They parked on the ‘set’ and spent most of the day filming inside the Beeline Cafe.

Economy mending

Town income rises across the board

The Town of Payson’s revenue rose modestly across the board in November, according to the monthly financial tracking report. Income rose in almost every category for the year.

Rim Country’s corporate fairy godmother

Arizona Public Service supports the community

APS has become one of the major corporate sponsors of Payson events in the past year, including the Fiesta Bowl Parade, the Fourth of July fireworks, the Electric Light Parade, the Black and White Ball, the Rodeo Parade and Gracie Lee Haught Foundation events, thanks to the efforts of a local team headed by Customer Service Leader Mark Kotschedoff.

Hero saves pup-sicle

Hapless dog plunges through the ice in park, but mystery fisherman strolls to rescue

A trip to Green Valley Park Saturday nearly proved to be one plucky Pomeranian’s last adventure, after he chased a duck onto thin ice only to end up dog-paddling for his life.

Horns honor shooting victims

The Payson High boys basketball team’s 79-69 pulsating win over visiting Snowflake on Jan. 3 was much more than a stirring victory over a longtime rival.

Montessori school celebrates holidays

Morgan’s Creek Montessori owners Sandy and Geoff this season donated the space for a free family fun night, complete with Santa. The festivities included a selection of live music by Colleen Brown and the Starlights and Rachael Anne.

Lawsuit filed in wheelchair ‘attack’

Health worker no longer able work due to alleged negligence

A wheelchair collision in a nursing home that injured a health care worker has spawned a lawsuit.

Make these things part of the New Year

Happy New Year to the people of our great town! As we salute the New Year, let us consider the ideas of Howard Thurman, in the book “A Grateful Heart”:

Thanks for the food bank donations

We would like to thank all the fine folks who contributed food to the Pine/Strawberry Food Bank through the box we had in front of our Christmas Lights on Tonto Rim.

Blaming the gun — really?

Once again, an apparent gun-hating liberal wants to blame the gun rather than the shooter. He blathers on about “assault weapons” being the problem.

Murder case postponed

Seems there be a lack of justice in the Rim Country/Payson.

Don’t be misled, check the facts

It has already been made clear to us in Arizona by Sen. Kyl and Rep. Gosar that the GOP feels perfectly justified in misleading the American people by making claims that “are not meant to be factual statements.”

Who are the ‘bad guys’? - letters to be edited/sorted

Who are the ‘bad guys’? Editor: Jim Gier suggests that we examine history and facts to understand why Democrats are the bad guys.

Community Almanac

AARP Tax-Aide program needs volunteers The Payson AARP Tax-Aide program needs volunteers for computer preparation of federal form(s) 1040 and Arizona form(s) 140 for Tax Year 2012.

Self-directed IRAs and real estate

Benjamin Franklin made famous the statement; “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

Food drive doing better

Thanks to a wave of financial donations, the Payson Area Food Drive is progressing, but still has a long way to go to meet its Feb. 3 collection goals.

E. Lowell Scrivner (1926-2012)

E. Lowell Scrivner died Dec. 22, 2012 surrounded by family in Phoenix after a stroke.

Dean (Dede) Standridge (1923-2012)

Mrs. Dean Standridge, of Payson, passed away Dec. 26, 2012 at the age of 89. She was born March 16, 1923 to the late Edbert Peairson and Cleo Timmons-Peairson. Mrs. Standridge was affectionately known to her family as Dede.

Subway remodel caps 22-year journey for owner

From part-time sandwich maker to owner of thriving franchise

From part-time sandwich maker to franchisee, Kathy James is Payson’s sandwich czar. Now in three weeks time, she’ll have a new store to rule.

PHS challenge course donated more mulch

Arizona Public Service tree trimming crews are donating much of the mulch being used as ground cover on the challenge course located just west of the high school.

Longhorns ambush Lobos

The Longhorns boys basketball team enjoyed revenge of sorts on Jan. 3 whipping a visiting Snowflake Lobo team, 79-69, that had bested Payson, 49-38 just weeks earlier.

Coaches tap Hill for all-tourney honors

Payson High School basketball standout Chioya Hill will never be mistaken for Dennis Rodman, but she is showing the same rebounding and defensive expertise the former NBA star.

Lady Horns fall to 41-39 to visiting Snowflake

The Lady Longhorns take to the Wilson Dome court this evening hoping to regain some of the luster they showed when opening the season 6-0 and finishing second in the Wickenburg Cage Classic Invitational Tournament.

Tonto National Forest slates meeting series to discuss recreation

Tonto National Forest officials will soon host a series of eight public meetings that will focus on recreational sustainability and planning.

An act of love

An act of love and a tribute to the victims of the Newtown, Conn. shooting tempered the longtime athletic feud between the Payson High Longhorns and Snowflake Lobos Jan. 3, 2013.

Defying the odds

Despite autism, elementary student participates in schoolwide spelling bee

Fifth-grade student Michael Reardon’s family covered him with ecstatic hugs and smiles as he came off the stage from the Julia Randall Elementary (JRE) spelling bee.

Murder case postponed

Status hearing scheduled for father charged with killing his daughter

Two murder trials set to start at the end of this month have been either postponed or resolved with a plea deal.

Names released of dead, injured in head-on crash

Dec. 29 accident killed one, injured eight — testing emergency system

Police have released the names of people injured and killed in a terrible head-on collision on Highway 260 last week, but not many details of the events that led to one of the worst crashes in memory — testing the region’s emergency response capacity to the limit.

New librarian focuses on youth, expanding inventory

Book lovers take note — more than 300 new titles will hit the shelves at the Payson Public Library this month. Thank new library director, Emily Linkey.

Fiscal cliff vote splits Arizona congressmen

Republicans revolt against bipartisan deal, citing lack of spending cuts

Arizona’s Republican contingent in Congress broke ranks with party leadership to vote against the last-minute screech to a halt on the edge of the fiscal cliff.

Burglaries jumped 32 percent in 2012

A rash of Payson vehicle burglaries in October helped crown 2012 the worst year for vehicle and home burglaries in years.

Residents say jobs still the top priority

Jobs. Jobs. Jobs. That’s the overwhelming message that has emerged from Payson’s early efforts to figure out the top priorities of the citizenry when it comes to overhauling the town’s General Plan blueprint for future growth.

Community Almanac

The Payson AARP Tax-Aide program needs volunteers for computer preparation of federal form(s) 1040 and Arizona form(s) 140 for Tax Year 2012.

Happy NewYear! Humane Society reflects on past year’s successes

As 2012 has come to an end, we are thankful for the year we had and look forward to what 2013 will bring.

Arming teachers

Much has been said lately about arming teachers in the classroom.

Police plan hiring binge

The most important thing left out of the article was the salary and benefits these new officers will receive.

Guns in schools

The Arizona Attorney General’s idea of arming and training a person in each school to protect our children against some crazed gunman, or gunwoman, is a step in the right direction, but it can be improved upon.

Failing test of leadership

Optimistic Personality Disorder: It must exist — and we’re pretty sure we’ve got it. Easy to treat though: Just momentarily pay attention to politics.

Student motivators

The article in the Dec. 21 Roundup titled, “Steep cost of failure” is indicative of the high level of commitment that many educators have toward students — all students.

No need to drag up old news about Garvin

I read the Dec. 28 article in the Payson Roundup referencing the Payson Police Department’s plan to hire additional police officers.

Trees Are Tops

Payson ‘trees’ a hit at Fiesta Bowl Parade

Pure entertainment — that’s what the 30 Payson volunteers dressed as ponderosa pines offered Fiesta Bowl Parade viewers.

First impressions are often the right ones, Part 2

Last week I left off on the second day after Lolly and I moved into our little place in Pine.

A new year brings new hope

On Tuesday we crossed the threshold into a new year knowing that nothing has really changed except the date on the calendar.

A Christopher Creek anniversary of note

I hope you all had a safe and happy holiday season and were able to spend quality time with family and friends.

Watch your step until sun melts the ice

Tonto Village has turned into a winter wonderland in the past few days.

Looking back on 2012 in music

Goodbye 2012. Hello 2013. This week, we’re going to take a look at “The Good, The ‘Sad’ and The Ugly” of the music industry this past year

Hunt is on for next Cardinals head coach

In the offices of the Payson Roundup, there is a handful of diehard Cardinals fans, including Melinda McQuerrey, which means a hot topic of discussion around the water cooler was who would replace Ken Whisenhunt as head coach of the team.

Lady Horns seek spot at ‘Big Dance’

Power points crucial to postseason play

With the Holiday Hoops tournament in the record books and the all-important 2013 season under way, it’s time for coaches, players and fans to pay particular attention to power points rankings.

Go-Girl Volleyball resurrected in Payson

Although Club Rim, Payson’s first team to participate statewide on the club volleyball scene, has folded, Payson High School head coach Arnold Stonebrink is offering an alternative for girls hoping to continue to compete once the prep season has ended.

Show Low next up for Horns

Finishing 1-4 in the Alvarez Tire Holiday Hoops Classic and losing one game by a whopping 75-18 margin doesn’t disturb Payson Longhorn boys basketball coach Joe Sanchez.

New Year, New You

Start a healthier future today

Well, here we are — Jan. 2, 2013. How many of us made resolutions regarding our weight, health and money? Here are some guidelines to help make those resolutions realities.

Rim Country Places

Chapter 10: Crook Military Road

A bold move had to be taken by the United States Army in 1871 to curb Apache raids on white settlements and ranches.

Ring in a healthier diet for the New Year

Maintaining a healthy diet is a popular New Year’s resolution for many of us, and cooking at home is one of the ways some are choosing to achieve this goal.

Spectacle of suffering

While ringing in the New Year, on the eve of Dec. 31, what was spectacular?

At The Movies-Jack Reacher

Twisty plot will satisfy detective drama buffs

Those of us that appreciate a good rock ’em sock ’em action flick mixed in with an excellent police procedural will like “Jack Reacher.”

Travel News for 2013

I thought it might be helpful to impart some travel industry news that may help you in planning travel in 2013.

Getaway Around Rim Country

A Men’s Breakfast for a Buck is at 8 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 5 at Ponderosa Bible Church, 1800 N. Beeline Hwy.

Good 2 Go

The new director of the Payson Public Library, Emily Linkey, will present stories and puppet shows for children at 11 a.m. every Saturday.

Burning throat pain could signal angina

I read your column all the time, and I was wondering if anyone has ever written to ask a question about burning in the throat.

Community Almanac

During the month of January, the Library Friends of Payson Bookstore is featuring a storewide clearance sale.

Parade showcases best of Rim Country

What a great way to finish off the year — winning the top two awards in the Fiesta Bowl Parade with a float that represented a true community effort.

Flu immunization clinic for children this Friday

The Gila County Division of Health Services is offering a flu immunization clinic for children only, ages 36 months to 18 years, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Jan. 4 at the Health Department Payson branch, 107 W. Frontier St., Suite A.

Health department advocates proper disposal of sharps

The Gila County Health Department has developed a program to help increase the public’s awareness on the proper disposal of “sharps.”

County policy discussion tabled until February

Supervisors balk at stipend on top of overtime for emergency call outs

Weekend winter storms mean calling in county staff to man the snowplows.

Valley home sales surge

Kori Rockwell said it was exciting to see her dream home being built from the ground up.

State-federal standoff costly for uninsured

Arizona unlikely to expand AHCCCS, leaving large number of Gila County families without medical coverage

The standoff between Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer and the federal government over health care will likely deny thousands of Gila County residents health coverage.

Nightmarish crash kills driver

Seven evacuated by helicopter after three-car accident on Highway 260

One person was killed and seven evacuated by medical helicopters in a three-vehicle accident on Highway 260 west of Christopher Creek near the Boy Scout Ranch Saturday afternoon on a stretch of the highway still limited to two lanes.