Payson Roundup 121815

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PAYSON ROUNDUP FRIDAY | DECEMBER 18, 2015 | PAYSON, ARIZONA

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Chiefs: ‘Rescue us’ It’s a whopper! by

Peter Aleshire

roundup editor

Faced with financial meltdown, rural fire districts are pleading with lawmakers to let local voters raise capped property tax rates.

Several state-imposed limits on property tax increases have forced rural fire districts throughout Rim Country to cut staff as they cope with 28 to 50 percent declines in revenues from property taxes. So far the departments have responded with modest staff reductions and elimination of things like training and vehicle purchases. But local fire chiefs say that without a change in the property tax limits they could face drastic reductions in service in coming years.

Districts now up against the tax rate limit imposed by state lawmakers hope this year those same lawmakers will let them seek voter approval for increases.

“We’ve had big problems with funding — but now it’s becoming a public safety issue,” said Pine-Strawberry District Fire Chief Gary Morris. His department has seen a 28 percent drop in property tax revenue, the main source of funding for its $2.1 million budget.

“We haven’t given firefighters a raise in six years and now we’re facing service cuts,” said Hellsgate Fire Chief David Bathke, who has seen a 50 percent drop in See Fire departments, page 8A

Fire department budgets in crisis

Payson Fiesta Bowl float 53-feet long -with three waterfalls

•

Manslaughter after all by

Alexis Bechman

Pia Wyer took this photo of Payson’s float for the 2016 Fiesta Bowl Parade, complete with dancing trees and waterfalls. by

roundup staff reporter

A controversial self-defense case that divided Gila County’s past and current county attorneys recently ended with a guilty verdict.

Robert Verdugo has been free the last five years after former Gila County Attorney Daisy Flores accepted his claim of self-defense and refused to prosecute him in the 2010 stabbing death of Scott Michael Johnson.

Bradley Beauchamp decided to re-open the case after he took office and sent it to a grand jury, which indicted Verdugo for manslaughter in December of 2014.

A jury on Dec. 10, 2015 convicted Verdugo of manslaughter after five hours of Robert Verdugo deliberation.

After the verdict, Verdugo waived his right to a jury determination of aggravating factors and admitted that the stabbing caused emotional harm to the Johnson

Controversial case played key role in election for Gila County attorney

• See Manslaughter verdict, page 2A

Michele Nelson

roundup staff reporter

The first float was 16 feet.

The second float, 25 feet.

Now the Town of Payson has built a 53-foot float for the 2016 Fiesta Bowl Parade — enough room to have three waterfalls, a 200-pound aluminum elk and a rail to hold a mountain bike with

by

Alexis Bechman

roundup staff reporter

Two members of a Globe-based medical flight crew died Tuesday night after their helicopter crashed east of Phoenix.

A third crew member survived and is being treated at a Valley hospital.

The crew of three was returning

• See Fiesta float, page 2A

to Globe from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport when the Airbus AS350 B3 aircraft crashed in rugged terrain in the Superstition Mountains, outside of Apache Junction.

Pilot David Schneider, 51, of Gilbert, and flight nurse Chad Frary, 38, of Mesa, were killed. Flight paramedic Derek

Boehm, 38, of Gilbert, is the sole survivor and is in fair condition, said Christina Brodsly, director of corporate communications with Air Methods.

Boehm reportedly signaled to a DPS helicopter searching for the downed aircraft with a flashlight-type device,

• See Medical helicopter, page 2A

Help for HS students Aspire Foundation raising money to cover GCC classes

The Rim Country Camera Club’s 2016 Charity Calendar sales have beaten last year’s total, but haven’t yet hit the 600-calender goal, with all the money going to local food banks.

Buy the perfect stocking stuffer for $10 by contacting Patty Hunt or Greg McKelvey for these unique Rim Country photographs. You can also get a calender for a $10 donation at the Payson Roundup, Tymeless Antiques, Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce, Payson Public Library, Computer Guys, Western Village, Beverage House, Iron Horse Signs and St. Vincent de Paul.

Photographed entirely in Rim Country, the Camera Club has sold calenders throughout Rim Country, as well as Europe and South America.

This photo by DJ Craig is one of the images in the calender.

Weekend: Mostly sunny with highs dropping to the low 50s, overnight lows in the upper 20s.

Details, 10A

down the parade route.

“John Jackson from the Town of Payson streets department will drive the truck,” said Davis.

This year’s Fiesta Bowl theme works perfectly for the Rim Country.

“The theme is Arizona’s Got Game,” said Davis, “Our float shows how Payson’s

Medical chopper crash kills two

Beautiful way to help food banks

THE WEATHER

rider, not to mention acting as a prop for the dancing trees.

“Yes, the trees are back as well as two bicycles that will be in constant motion for the entire parade route,” said Cameron Davis, the Town of Payson’s parks and recreation director and float organizer extraordinaire.

The float is so large, the Town of Payson will use a semi-truck to pull it

by

Peter Aleshire

roundup editor

The recently established Aspire Arizona Foundation has launched its first effort in support of a university campus in Payson — a partnership with Payson High School and Gila Community College to offer dual-credit college courses.

The long-discussed but unformed Aspire Foundation was established to collect donations to reduce the cost of attending the proposed, four-year college campus in Rim Country.

“Aspire Arizona’s first project will be to help Payson High School students get ready for the university when it opens,” said president Tom Slonaker.

The program would help cover the

cost of GCC tuition for high school students starting in the 2016-17 school year, with donations and $20,000 in promised matching funds.

The Foundation wants to cover the cost of community college classes in math, science and English for Payson High School juniors and seniors. The classes would both fulfill high school graduation requirements and give students college credits that would then transfer to the university.

“AAF plans to pay $200 of GCC tuition per semester for every Payson student who participates. Our hope is that by offering free access to college-level courses, PHS students will be inspired to pursue a higher education,” said Slonaker.

In theory, this could allow highly motivated high school students to start college with one semester or more already finished.

It would also boost enrollment at Gila Community College and substantially reduce costs for required introductory courses for Rim Country students.

• See Foundation, page 2A

PAYSON AREA FOOD DRIVE

GOAL: 30,000 lbs.

Please help us meet our goal of raising 30,000 pounds of food and $50,000 in financial donations for local food banks.

Look for the drop boxes around town, or mail your check to Payson Area Food Drive, P.O. Box 703, Payson, AZ 85547.

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Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

2A

Committee decries lack of Payson parks

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The Chipmunks try to stop Dave from proposing.

Alexis Bechman

roundup staff reporter

Payson has no parks on the east side of town, which the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Commission wants to change.

But a lack of funding leaves the town eyeing the Forest Service land the Rim Country Educational Alliance recently acquired for a university and other improvements.

At the first commission meeting since July, the few members in attendance insisted they want more park land.

Rory Huff, vice chair, said he thought the town would get some park land when some land near the airport was annexed, but it was just a sliver. With the town surrounded by National Forest land, Huff worries the town is running out of land options. So with no parks on the east side, the town needs to find more facilities, he said.

LaRon Garrett, town manager, said unless someone donates land or money to purchase property, the town does not have the funds to buy any land for a park.

Rob Ingram, commission chair, said he would like to talk with the university group about getting some land for a park on the 253acre university site.

Huff said if they knew how much it would cost to buy some land on the site, the Friends group may be able to raise the money to buy it.

Besides a new park, the commission asked Garrett and Cameron Davis, tourism director, about the possibility of a parks and recreation master plan to lay out future projects and activities.

Davis said he does not see the town funding such a plan in the foreseeable future.

Garrett said the town has no money to implement such a plan anyway.

The town did complete a streets and roads plan, but relied on state funding, not local money. Garrett encouraged the commission to come up with a priority list as the traffic advisory committee did.

Also at the meeting, the commission received several updates, including: • Crews have installed the new lights on the Rumsey Kiwanis Fields in Rumsey Park and the town is just waiting for APS to drop a wire off a power line to hook up the lights.

• The town has supplies to install lights on the pickleball courts.

• The town may receive a grant to replace the turf on the Kiwanis Fields in Rumsey Park.

• New turf should be installed on the south soccer field by the spring.

• Events at the Payson Event Center grossed the town $100,000 this year. Six years ago, the center only brought in $16,000.

Fiesta float finished

PG • No Passes • 1:00, 3:10, 5:20, 7:30

From page 1A

Tina Fey & Amy Poehler as sisters who spend one last rowdy weekend in the home where they grew up.

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A Whale of a Tale!

In 1820, a whaling ship is preyed upon by a whale, stranding its crew at sea for 90 days, thousands of miles from home.

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After being symbolized as the Mockingjay, Katniss Everdeen and District 13 engage in an all-out revolution against the autocratic Capitol.

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THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL THEATRE!

got game with the Mountain High Games, the Old Time Fiddle Contest, and all the outdoor recreation. It’s an ad for everything we do.”

Of course, Davis couldn’t produce the masterpiece without lots of help. The following artisans and volunteers created the impressive moving bit of Payson: Lead art designer: Thomas Walling. For the third time, Walling has provided his stage designing skills to make true-tolife rocks, trees and waterfalls.

Head carpenter: Jeff Wheeler.

Wheeler designed the foundation for all the float’s bells and whistles.

Float committee manager: Stacey North. She kept the project moving forward and volunteers on track.

Bicycle Track Designer: Eddy Bachtell. “Bachtell was the person

in charge of developing, creating, and putting together the bicycle track,” said Davis. The track looks permanent.

Aluminum animal donor: Sue Malinsky. For the third time, Malinsky has brought the wildlife of Rim Country to the float.

Waterfalls: George Henry Plumbing built the waterfalls.

The cost to build the float came to a little under $10,000, said Davis, while the entrance fees to the parade was $15,000, but many organizations helped pay.

APS paid the entrance fee.

Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce, Friends of the Tonto Natural Bridge, Friends of Payson Parks and Recreation and the Town of Payson helped cover the construction costs.

Davis said the town will reap advertising and public benefits worth $500,000 as a result of the national exposure through televised coverage of the parade.

“The Fiesta Bowl organization will put on two days of promotion,” he said.

That kind of attention caused the Channel 5 News to put on a tree costume to do a weather report last year.

This year, Davis has purchased a middle page spread in the publication going out to everyone on the parade.

And the number of people that will see the parade numbers in the millions.

“There will be 250,000 on the parade route and 2 million watching on TV, because it’s a nationally recognized parade,” he said.

Davis said the Fiesta Bowl is the third largest parade after the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and the Rose Bowl Parade.

The Fiesta Bowl Parade will run on Jan. 6 in Phoenix. This year No. 8 Notre Dame will face No. 4 Ohio State in the Fiesta Bowl, two teams with a national following.

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From page 1A family.

Judge Jason R. Holmberg will sentence Verdugo on Jan. 12 to somewhere between 7 and 21 years in prison.

For years, Johnson’s family, friends and members of the Globe community pushed for the arrest of Verdugo.

During the 2012 election, Beauchamp insisted Flores’ office had bungled that and several other cases.

Flores stood behind her decision that Verdugo had acted in self-defense. Arizona is a stand-your-ground law state, which means people don’t have to try to retreat before using lethal force — providing they feel threatened

with the possible use of lethal force.

On the night of Sept. 18, 2010, just after midnight, Johnson, who had been drinking, walked from his parents’ home to the home of his former girlfriend and childhood friend.

Johnson said he only wanted to talk.

Verdugo reportedly went outside to tell Johnson to leave.

When Johnson refused to leave, Verdugo went back into the home and grabbed a large hunting knife. Verdugo went back outside. The two men got into a fight, while women in the house called police.

Verdugo stabbed Johnson in the abdomen.

A witness, who lives in the neighborhood, testified that around the time of the stabbing he heard what sounded like two men yelling at

each other and then heard, “Ahh! Ahh! Ahh!” A medical examiner testified that Johnson had been stabbed three times — once in the arm and twice in the abdomen.

The medical examiner said the wound to Johnson’s arm was “defensive,” said Chief Deputy Shawn C. Fuller.

Verdugo, who remained at the scene and used his T-shirt to try to stop Johnson’s bleeding, was not injured. The Globe Police Department, which investigated, submitted the case to Flores. She declined to prosecute.

Since losing her seat to Beauchamp, Flores has applied to serve on the Arizona Supreme Court. After an interview, the Commission on Appellate Court Appointments did not nominate her for the position.

Foundation aspires to help students From page 1A The Aspire Foundation already has matching pledges totaling $20,000 to “jump-start” the project.

“Your tax deductible donations can help give Payson students a big head start toward a college degree,” said Slonaker.

Donors can send a contribution to Aspire Arizona Foundation, 308 E. Aero Drive, Payson, AZ 85541.

The release announcing the fundraising effort includes a list of board members of the foundation, long talked about as a key component of the university campus effort but not previously publicly revealed. The board members include Charles Beier, DDS, Paul Brocker,

Richard Johnson, Sanja S. Long, Margaret Michels, Paige Porter, Tom Slonaker, Craig Swartwood and Janet Vidnovic.

The mission of the nonprofit, tax-deductible foundation includes: • Provide student aid • Support unique academic programs • Fund faculty and cutting-edge technology • Improve educational aspirations of local students.

The foundation will likely play a key role in the effort to attract up to 6,000 students to a four-year university in Payson.

Project backers from the start have hoped to lure students to the campus by offering tuition that’s some 50 percent less than at the

other public universities in the state. ASU currently charges about $10,000 a year for tuition for in-state students — which is nearly twice as much as when the Payson campus effort started six years ago.

Initially, backers talked about simply charging lower tuition rates. But in the last several years, they have instead suggested that the Aspire Foundation could instead provide scholarships to lower the cost.

Slonaker said, “Our hope is that by offering free access to college-level courses, PHS students will be inspired to pursue a higher education. If AAF is successful in fundraising, we also intend to offer need-based scholarships for students taking multiple dual credit courses.”

Medical helicopter crash kills two crew members From page 1A according to Valley media sources.

DPS could not land due to the terrain, but a military helicopter later rescued Boehm and transported him to a Valley hospital, according to Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu.

The Native Air chopper had no

patients on board.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to their families and loved ones,” Brodsly wrote. “The accident is still being investigated, and it’s important that we let the FAA and NTSB do their jobs.”

Fire chiefs from around Rim Country expressed their condolences for the loss Wednesday.

Hellsgate Chief David Bathke,

Pine-Strawberry Chief Gary Morris and Christopher-Kohl’s Chief Robert Lockhart all said it is a tragic loss for the county.

Native Air 5 occasionally worked in Payson.

The Payson based Native Air 7 team refused to comment on the accident, but posted a “Never Forget” photo on its Facebook page.

The page said Frary joined the team in 2014 after working at Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center in Globe as an ER nurse.

Before entering the medical field, Frary worked as a motorcycle research and development test rider, a correctional officer for Nevada’s forensic mental health facility and served as a United States Marine.

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RYE, ARIZONA 11 Miles South of Payson on Highway 87 928-474-3411

PAYSON ROUNDUP

communityalmanac

Submissions deadlines: • 10 a.m. Monday for Tuesday issue • 10 a.m. Wednesday for Friday issue

Salvation Army needs help

Read a book, draw a picture

teddy bear sleepover

Volunteer to be a holiday bell ringer on Friday or Saturday and/or the entire week of Christmas ending Christmas Eve. The twohour shifts ringing will take place at Safeway, Walmart and Bashas’.

This is open to everyone including organizations, service clubs and those that would like to receive community service hours.

To sign up, please call John Morgan at 928-474-8454 or 928-595-0517.

All donated funds stay in Payson to help people in need. The Salvation Army assists with utilities, rent, lodging, food, gas, clothing, travel and much more.

The Payson Public Library is inviting its young patrons to read a book and draw a picture about the book to win a gift certificate for a free Subway Fresh Fit Meal for Kids.

The event is part of the library’s ongoing program, Reading Matters.

Angel Project returns

Angel, a 10-year-old boy, is once again asking the community to contribute to a holiday Toy & Blanket Drive from now until Dec. 19. Any type, any size will be accepted and organizers can even pick up donations.

Drop-off boxes are at Bob’s Western Wear, Payson Barber Shop, Ponderosa Family Care, Tiny’s, Serendipity on Main and the project has Angel Trees at Rue 21 and Walmart.

To help the cause, Angel is also organizing a sale of baked goods and Christmas decorations to be held outside of Walgreens from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19. For more information, call 480-322-2743.

At the Mazatzal Casino

There’s always something happening at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, located on Highway 87 at milepost 251. For more information, call 1-800-777-PLAY (7529).

• Bingo Wednesdays: Matinee opens 10:30 a.m., starts at noon; Evening opens 4 p.m., starts at 6:30 p.m.

• Christmas Buffet $16: Friday, Dec. 25 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Cedar Ridge Restaurant.

• Red Sleigh Giveaway: Double Entry Mondays! Drawings Dec. 29 & 30.

• New Year’s Eve Bash: Featuring America’s No. 1 Dance Band. Doors open 9 p.m. $20 advance/$25 door. Tickets available at gift shop. Hot Seats 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. Win up to $2016 in cash! 4x bonus points Dec. 31 12 p.m. to Jan. 1 12 p.m.

Archaeology group hosts forensic anthropologist

Metro Creative Services photo

Once again the Payson Public Library staff is inviting its young patrons to bring their teddy bears to a sleepover at the library. First there is story time at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22, then the bears settle in for the night.

Participants will get a letter describing their bear’s adventures when they pick it up the next day.

See’s Candies available

Delicious See’s Candies are now available in Payson, in time for the holidays. The local Soroptimist members will be at National Bank from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 18 at the corner of Main Street and Highway 87.

See’s wonderful chocolates are also available at Arizona Elite Properties, 1101 S. Beeline Highway. At both Safeway and National Bank, $5 raffle tickets will be available for a $100 gift certificate from Safeway and $50 worth of movie tickets to the Sawmill Theatres. Only 300 tickets are being sold. For more information, please call Jean Oliver at 928-474-6167.

The Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library in Pine also has a holiday shipment of See’s Candy.

The library is also offering a chance on a gorgeous See’s Candy basket valued at $225. Drawing for this basket will take place Saturday, Dec. 19. Candy will be available until sold out. Contact the library at 928-4763678 with any questions.

Holiday music Special holiday concert The public is invited to a special presentation of the Christmas choruses and solos from Handel’s Messiah by 20 volunteer singers from the community. Some children will be taking part in solos, readings, ringing bells and a Nativity scene. This concert will be held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 700 E. Wade Lane, at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 19 during the church’s worship hour.

Admission is free.

Those interested may call Angeline at 928951-4853 for more information.

The next meeting of the local chapter of the Arizona Archaeological Society is at 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Fellowship Hall of the Church of the Holy Nativity, 1414 Easy St. The guest speaker is Miles Gilbert, Ph.D. His presentation is titled “Ice Age Man and Mammals.” Miles, a forensic anthropologist, has worked with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Public Safety, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

A buffet lunch will follow the presentation.

There is no admission fee, although donations are welcome. All guests are invited to attend.

Christmas cantata

Wednesday, Dec. 23.

Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church is presenting a Christmas cantata, “Sing Noel” at 10 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 20. The public is invited to attend. Shepherd of the Pines is at 507 W. Wade Lane, Payson.

More movies at the libraries

At the library Once again the Payson Public Library is presenting a series of holiday music programs and all will feature refreshments.

Christmas week will see Cinnamon Twist perform from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 21; pianist Phyllis Papineau is the guest from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22; and Jim West and Kathleen Kelly perform from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 24.

The library is at 328 N. McLane Road.

Holiday fun at area libraries All-aboard for ‘The Polar Express’ “The Polar Express” makes a stop at the Payson Public Library at 3:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 18.

The “conductors-in-training” at the library suggest youngsters read the book first and then come to the library, 328 N. McLane Road, with a pillow to enjoy the movie.

The Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library, 6124 N. Randall Place, Pine, will show the movie as part of its Movie Madness program at 1 p.m.,

Movie Madness at Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library in Pine continues with “Minions” at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 30.

Payson Public Library plans movies at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 23; Tuesday, Dec. 29; and Wednesday, Dec. 30.

The movie Dec. 23 is “The Miracle on 34th Street” one of the classic Christmas movies; the Dec. 29 movie is “Home” which is an animated feature; and on Dec. 30, the library is showing “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” based on a true story.

Teddy Bear sleepover Once again the Payson Public Library staff is inviting its young patrons to bring their teddy bears to a sleepover at the library. First there is story time at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22, then the bears settle in for the night.

Participants will get a letter describing their bear’s adventures when they pick it up the next day.

Build a Snowman The Payson Public Library will have a “Build a Snowman at the Library” program at 3 p.m., Monday, Dec. 28. Register now at the circulation desk. The program is for those 3 and older. Call 928-474-9260 for more information.

LFOP book sale

During December the Library Friends of Payson Bookstore will continue to feature a collection of Christmas items at two for the price of one, while supplies last. Bookstore gift certificates are only $3 and make the perfect gifts for those hard to shop for people.

They are great stocking stuffers, as well.

The bookstore will also be offering all standard size paperback books and videos at the amazing value of 10 for $1 throughout December.

Bookstore stock is constantly changing, so stop by often.

The LFOP Bookstore is located to the right of the circulation desk just inside the Payson Public Library, 328 N. McLane Road. For more information visit the Library Friends of Payson website at www.libraryfriendsofpayson.org.

Holiday grocery raffle

The local Soroptimist club is holding a grocery raffle for the holidays. Tickets for $5 each gives the holder an opportunity to win one of four prizes. Only 300 tickets will be sold. Chances of winning are 1 in 75.

First and second prize are the same: $100 gift certificate from Safeway. Third prize is $50 worth of movie tickets and fourth prize is a gift certificate for a one-pound box of See’s

Friday, December 18, 2015 3A

delicious candy.

Tickets are available now by calling Jean Oliver, 928-474-6167, or at Tiny’s from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays when the club meets. Also, raffle tickets will be available at the See’s Candy booth from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 18 at National Bank — unless they are sold out.

Win tickets for a ride on the Grand Canyon Railway

Ponderosa Chapter #64, Order of the Eastern Star is selling raffle tickets for two, round-trip coach class tickets on the Grand Canyon Railway.

Tickets are $5 each or six for $25 and only 300 tickets will be sold.

The drawing for the tickets will be held at the O.E.S. Stated Meeting Feb. 1, 2016. It is not necessary to be present to win and the tickets are valid until Oct. 31, 2016.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Marjorie Winemiller at 928-4680790 (Payson) or Kathleen Hemmingsen at 602-615-5331 (Pine and Strawberry).

Eastern Star is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping needy children, battered women, veterans and furthering medical research.

Elks New Year’s Eve event

Tickets are now on sale for the Payson Elks Lodge New Year’s Eve SUPERSTARS! Duets night. Guests will have a choice of prime rib or baked chicken for only $25 per person or $45 for two. This event is open to the public.

Tickets must be purchased by Dec. 23 — NO EXCEPTIONS. Get tickets at the Lodge or call 928-474-2572 for details.

Tax program needs volunteers

AARP Tax-Aide is dedicated to assisting senior citizens and low- to middle-income taxpayers file their personal tax returns free. The program is seeking individuals with basic computer skills, a general knowledge of tax requirements, and an interest in serving our local community.

In January 2016, AARP will provide training and equipment to obtain IRS certification to enable volunteers to confidently offer tax assistance.

For more information or to volunteer, call Lori at 928-478-6460 or Bob at 928-472-7588 or email:paysontaxaide@gmail.com.

LOTTERIES Powerball (Dec. 16) 9 10 32 42 55 (6) Mega Millions (Dec. 15) 18 25 47 51 61 (5) The Pick (Dec. 16) 4 12 27 28 32 41 Fantasy 5 (Dec. 17) 19 22 25 27 30 Pick 3 (Dec. 17) 626 5 Card Cash (Dec. 17) AS 6C 9H JH AC

rim country calendar

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Friday

Saturday

• Payson Public Library: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; flutist Gail Bensen performs at 11 a.m.; “Polar Express” movie shows at 3:30 p.m.

• Pine Library: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Rim Country Museum: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 700 Green Valley Pkwy.

• American Legion Fish Fry: Noon-8 p.m., American Legion

• Pine Library: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Forensic anthropologist is guest: 10 a.m., Church of the Holy Nativity, hosted by local archaeology group • Payson Public Library: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Rim Country Museum: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 700 Green Valley Pkwy.

• Selections from Handel’s “Messiah” presented at 11 a.m. at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 700 E. Wade Lane, Payson

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Looking ahead

• Christmas cantata: 10 a.m., Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, 507 W. Wade Lane, Payson • Rim Country Museum: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., 700 Green Valley Pkwy.

• Bingo: 1 p.m., Elks Lodge, open to the public

• Payson Public Library: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Rim Country Museum: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 700 Green Valley Pkwy.

• Pine/Strawberry Museum: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Pine Community Center • Cinnamon Twist performs at Payson Public Library, 2 p.m.

• Payson Public Library: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Pine Library: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Pianist Phyllis Papineau performs at the Payson Public Library, 2 p.m.

• Teddy Bear Sleepover at Payson Library, 4 p.m.

December 23 • Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library, Pine, shows “Polar Express” at 1 p.m.

• Deadline to get tickets to Elks’ New Year’s Eve SUPERSTARS, $25 per person; $45 for two, (928) 474-2572 December 24 • Jim West and Kathleen Kelly perform at Payson Public Library, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday

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PAYSON ROUNDUP

OPINION

4A Friday, December 18, 2015

lookback

ourview

• Dec. 18, 1865: Following its ratification by the requisite three-quarters of the states earlier in the month, the 13th Amendment is formally adopted into the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that “neither slavery nor involuntary servitude ... shall exist within the United States.”

• Dec. 20, 1963: More than two years after the Berlin Wall was constructed

by East Germany to prevent its citizens from fleeing its communist regime, nearly 4,000 West Berliners are allowed to cross into East Berlin for one day to visit relatives.

• Dec. 17, 1975: A federal jury in Sacramento, Calif., sentences Lynette “Squeaky” Fromme, a follower of incarcerated cult leader Charles Manson, to life in prison for her attempted assassination of President Gerald Ford.

• Dec. 19, 1998: The House of Rep­ resentatives approves two articles of impeachment against President Bill Clinton, charging him with lying under oath to a federal grand jury and obstructing justice. Clinton, after being acquitted on both articles of impeachment, said he was “sorry.”

Rescuing struggling fire districts The folks who answer the cry for help in the middle of the night need some help.

Unfortunately, rural fire districts like Pine-Strawberry and Hellsgate have to go to the state Legislature for the help they need — although lawmakers have proven themselves a notoriously unhelpful group.

We don’t mean to blame lawmakers — except it’s mostly their fault.

The problem stems from state legislators’ well-intentioned effort to limit property taxes. But the limits they imposed crashed head-on into a biggest drop in home prices since the Great Depression. Now you’d need the jaws of life to get the wreck untangled.

The root of the problem lies in a $3.25 per $100 of assessed valuation cap on the property tax fire protection districts can charge. This affects every fire department in Rim Country with the exception of Payson — which relies mostly on sales taxes.

As if the cap isn’t bad enough, a voter-approved initiative also limited the annual increase in property tax rates to 5 percent.

And to add insult to injury, lawmakers also included a formula in another statewide tax which penalizes districts that merge or enter into joint operating agreements.

Now, maybe that sounded like a good idea at the time — given the state’s lopsided reliance on property taxes to fund local services, especially in rural areas without much in the way of sales taxes. No doubt about it: Rim Country homeowners pay a painfully high property tax rate.

However, the state imposed the property tax limits just as the Great Recession sent property values plunging.

As a result, many Rim Country fire districts lost 30 to 50 percent of their property tax revenue even as they faced rising demands for service. Worse yet, even if property values rebound — the 5 percent annual limit on increases will leave the budget wreck of fire districts twisted up in the middle of the fiscal highway for years.

Fire districts want the Legislature to remove the $3.25 per $100 cap, so they can seek help from the people they serve. The 5 percent annual limit in increases would remain in place, to prevent a big increase in a single year.

Supporting that proposal is a no-brainer, since it would return local control to the voters — supposedly a core belief of the conservative Republican Legislature.

Certainly, state lawmakers spout eloquent fury every time the federal government takes control away from them — insisting the government closest to the people governs best. But shouldn’t the adage also apply to efforts by the state to take control from local districts?

So we’d have thought supporting the fire districts’ proposal would have been a no-brainer for the study committee chaired by our own Sen. Sylvia Allen. But while the committee issued an interesting report, it flinched from making a recommendation.

That leaves the fire districts the tough task of lobbying lawmakers in the upcoming legislative session.

Now, we certainly have our qualms about putting fresh burdens on property tax payers. Lawmakers seem determined to cut corporate and individual income tax rates to benefit high-income taxpayers. That leaves them reliant on sales and property taxes.

We also wonder whether fire districts can’t get money from other sources — like health insurance companies.

Medical emergencies now account for the overwhelming majority of fire department calls throughout Rim Country.

Certainly, having trained paramedics at the front door in five minutes saves lives. But perhaps medical insurance should pay more for that service than do property tax payers. We need a comprehensive discussion of how to pay for the fire department medical services — as well as the high cost of public safety pensions.

But that’s not the point of the effort to lift the stifling property tax cap.

Whenever possible, the state should honor local control. So we hope the Legislature will quickly lift the property tax cap and let the voters decide for themselves how much they’re willing to pay for the services they need.

guestcomment

Common sense is needed in relocating refugees Senator Sylvia Tenney Allen

fare and safety of Arizona’s citizens.

America is a welcoming country, and it will These are dangerous times in Arizona and continue to be, but we also must use vigilance across the world. The terror in Paris and San and common sense when we determine who Bernardino are reminders that evil can appear can enter our great country. When it comes to Muslim refugees, we should not only anywhere, and anytime. One of the terbase our decision on what is best for rorists in Paris entered Europe embedus, but what is also best for them. ded in a group of Syrian refugees. One Many Muslims live under Sharia of the killers in California entered the Law. Islam is a political system as well United States under something called as a religious system and Sharia Law a “fiancé visa,” after being radicalized. is at the center of that system. Our No matter what precautions we try to constitutional form of government is take in the U.S. to keep our citizens in direct opposition. Would they not safe, it seems there will always be be happier in a country that better criminals and terrorists able to avoid Sylvia Allen reflects their beliefs? Balancing comdetection. passion with common sense would tell That’s why I support Governor Ducey’s effort to be sure that Arizona has a say America that we should help relocate these refuin who is brought here. It will be Arizona tax- gees in other Muslim countries.

Glenn Beck, through his charity Mercury payers who will need to help fund these refugee families, and it will be Arizona families who will One, has just relocated 149 Christian refugees be harmed if terrorists fall through the vetting from Iraq to Slovakia. Thousands of Americans cracks and end up in our state. It is Governor donated to Beck’s charity to fund the relocation.

Ducey’s responsibility to protect the health, wel- Since the U.S. is not allowing Christian refugees by

president pro tempore

(why aren’t we?), Beck found a country who would take them. Close to 500 refugees had been planned for relocation, but the United Nations and the European Union put heavy pressure on Slovakia to stop taking the Christian refugees.

In 1980, my Tenney extended family sponsored a Hmong family. That program required fellow Americans to take responsibility in finding housing, employment and all their other needs. The family we helped was a father, mother, three girls and a grandmother. They lived at my mother’s house, and I helped get the girls into school and found a job for the father. These refugees were being targeted because the father had fought on the side of America in the Vietnam War. The Communist governments that took over South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia swept through those countries, killing millions. Today, this family lives in California, and the girls have all graduated and are good productive citizens.

It was very rewarding for me to help this family.

I am not against helping people in need.

Common sense is needed. Our lives, as well as the lives of the refugees, depend on it.

mailcall

Voters support education Editor: “Education top issue for voters” is the headline in Friday’s Roundup.

On page 2, in the box titled “Top issue for voters” it is stated education was No. 1 or 2 with 50 percent of Arizona voters, including 43 percent of conservatives, followed by 34 percent for budget. Those of us who have been advocating spending more on education are not surprised at the results. What does surprise is the way in which the Republican politicians, local, state, and national, do not realize this fact. The article states, “Time and again Arizona voters indicate they support improving Arizona’s public education system”; yet “Arizona remains dead last in per student school funding.”

Despite the voters’ wishes, our schools had to take the state of Arizona to court, where the schools won the case, but still have not been paid, because the Republican-led state House and Senate have broken the law that requires that the voter-approved tax increase, specifically earmarked for education, has been diverted to other things like prisons and patrol cars and airplanes for DPS. Even the Payson Police Department was given two free cars paid for by the state of Arizona.

I hope that everyone who has a child or grandchild in our schools paid attention to this article ... remind your friends and family to read it if they did not ... and remember it come election time.

Our district Republican representatives have consistently voted against every bill that would help our schools ... every bill. Regardless of how many times they stand before us and swear they are in favor of education spending ... they are lying to us.

Along that line ... Rep. Brenda Barton did not

live in Gila County before she was elected to our district; she lived in Safford. Rep. Brenda Barton now lives in Mesa, maintaining an apartment in Payson that she does not occupy, in order to establish a local address here, so she can “legally” run again as our representative, voting against Payson school funding. Does this seem ethical?

Ted Paulk

Sen. Allen is clueless Editor: On Dec. 7, I attended a meeting of the Women’s Democratic Party group here in Payson. The group’s speakers that day were Senator Sylvia Allen and Dr. Raymond Spatti. Senator Allen and Dr. Spatti were there to present their positions on a number of issues facing our country today.

One that I am greatly concerned about is how human beings are impacting climate change beyond what occurs naturally. Dr. Spatti suggested that the excessive emissions of carbon dioxide and other “greenhouse gases” are affecting our environment in an extremely destructive manner.

In response to Dr. Spatti, Senator Allen said that she wasn’t in agreement with him and proceeded to explain that carbon dioxide emissions are “good” for the environment and supported her position by referring to a professional scientist that, according to her had so stated himself.

She went on to say that: “thousands of other scientist held a similar belief.” She also said that she thought that carbon emission due to humanbased activity only amounted to a small portion of greenhouse gases and the majority were due to natural processes.

On this same day, a letter was addressed and sent to: “U.S. Presidential Candidates,”

from a committee of “Clean Energy and Climate Experts” requesting that they “... commit to a goal of unsurpassed potential and urgency: American leadership in global clean energy economy.” In the body of this letter they stated that: “... the scientific evidence is overwhelming that carbon emissions from fossil fuels are changing our climate.” This letter was undersigned by 47 professional scientists, each a faculty member at different major institutions of higher learning across the United States.

In a recent declaration by the Union of Concerned Scientist, whose membership constitutes over 90 percent of professional scientist around the globe and undersigned by the majority, basically echoed the same concern about the increasing impact on the climate by human-generated fossil fuel emissions.

I am certain that Senator Allen has the interest of her constituents at the forefront of her endeavors. However, when it comes to the precarious future of the climate, from the standpoint of things living on this planet, she is clueless.

Monte McCord

Charter schools a blessing in disguise Editor: I was dismayed and somewhat amused by the full-page “Chicken Little” ad in the Dec. 8 edition of the Payson Roundup titled “A Wake Up Call to the People of Rim Country.”

In essence, the ad is a rallying cry to protest the leasing of a fraction of the new university site to a K-8 charter school. “It will devastate our community,” proclaims the ad. In addition to this and other apocalyptic omens, the ad argues that See Mail call, page 5A

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Payson Roundup OPINION Friday, December 18, 2015 guestcomment

If president won’t lead, Congress should by

Rep. Paul Gosar

r-arizona

they are at war also happens to be the most important job of the United States federal government; protect and defend its people.

Despite the president’s reluctance to take action to secure our borders, the House of Representatives is advancing common sense solutions right now to keep you safe:

The horrifying events that took place over the past few weeks, including the terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, have shaken our country to its very core. It is clear that the United States and other freedom loving countries around the world are at war Visa waiver reform with radical Islamic groups such as ISIS and On Tuesday, with overwhelming bipartisan Al Qaeda. support, the House passed the Visa Waiver These terrorists are unlike any enemy Program Improvement Act which requires all we have ever faced. They do not value their 38 participating countries to provide countown lives or even the lives of their er-terrorism information and other children and will stop at nothing to critical intelligence while denying kill anyone who opposes their apocVisa Waiver Program status for alyptic beliefs. More than ever this those who have traveled to terrorist growing threat requires a strategic hotbeds, like Iraq and Syria. It is and realistic plan of action not only estimated that approximately 5,000 to defend our homeland but also to Europeans have traveled to Syria exterminate these terrorist groups. and Iraq to join ISIS, many of whom And yet, all our commander and are from countries that participate chief has offered the American peoin the Visa Waiver Program. This ple ... are crickets and PR stunts.

Paul Gosar President Obama is so scared is a common sense step that can be that he will alienate his liberal base that he done immediately to stop the flow of potential has overseen the most restrictive and ineffec- terrorists entering the United States. We tive rules of engagement in the modern world. simply cannot allow those who seek to do us He refuses to define the enemy for whom and harm the ability to abuse our relationships what they are — radical Islamist terrorists with allied nations.

— and refuses to put forth an effective war strategy that will combat dangerous terrorists Pausing refugee placement in the U.S. that are beheading and slaughtering innocent The United States already takes in more civilians. immigrants than any other country on the His political ploy earlier this year in seek- planet. Allowing tens of thousands of refugees ing a limited Authorization for Use of Military to enter our country would further strain our Force (AUMF) was laughable and not a seri- out-of-control deficit spending. Even more ous request. In his speech from the Oval Office troubling, leaders from the FBI, National this past Sunday night, he didn’t even have Counter-terrorism Center and the Department the nerve to ask Congress to approve that of Homeland Security have said they do not draft because it wasn’t worth the paper it have the necessary on-the-ground intelligence was printed on. Instead of leading, President to thoroughly vet refugees. Until there is a Obama has decided to play politics once again certification process in place that we can trust and attempt to shift the blame for his terrible foreign policy to Congress with a hollow call to prevent terrorist threats in America, the administration’s Syrian and Iraqi refugee profor Congress to now vote on an ISIS AUMF. gram should be paused. My colleagues and I Sadly, President Obama has created a leadare trying to stop these transfers in Congress ership vacuum that he doesn’t have the comand I am proud to be a cosponsor of H.R. 3314, petency to fill in order to successfully confront introduced by my good friend and colleague this enemy. Across Arizona, I have heard Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas).

If enacted, this from countless people telling me that they are bill will put an immediate moratorium on the scared about the security of this nation. And refugee resettlement program and prevent here is the truth that you deserve to hear: • We are at war and the threat we face these potentially dangerous individuals from entering our borders. from Islamic terrorism is real.

• ISIS must be wiped off the face of the Stopping illegal immigration Earth. and increasing border security • American leadership and military might The Obama administration has failed to are necessary to defeat the enemy.

The first thing any country must do when enforce our immigration laws resulting in

rural law enforcement agencies having to pick up the slack to protect our communities.

This additional burden is extremely expensive which is why the federal government is required by law to compensate state and local governments for the costs of incarcerating illegal immigrants. I am fighting to ensure that Arizona gets every penny it is owed from having to incarcerate undocumented criminal offenders. The Obama administration needs to either start enforcing the rule of law or pay the local and state agencies who are doing it for them.

a K-8 charter school could result in employee layoffs and the closure of an elementary school.

However, nowhere does the ad mention the potential impact (positive or negative) a K-8 charter school might have on the students of Rim Country. In fact, the ad does not mention students at all. This is beyond ironic. It would be laughable if it weren’t so blatantly self-serving.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but I always thought that the purpose of public education was to provide our children with the best possible education given the resources available, not to save jobs or school buildings.

The backers of the ad want us to believe that a K-8 charter school will do irreparable harm to Rim Country. If the bogeyman comes to town, the Payson Unified School District (PUSD) might lose up to 700 students.

However, these students will not vanish into thin air or be devoured by the Mogollon Monster. The Payson community will not lose them. They will simply be taking advantage of a different educational option.

Likewise, PUSD may have to close an elementary school, but the Payson community will be adding a new K-8 school.

PUSD may have to reduce its faculty and staff, but the new charter school will create additional job opportunities for local educators.

Since the ad failed to do so, let me share two student-centered reasons why true friends of Rim Country should welcome a charter school with open arms: 1) Choice: Parents will have more educational options for their children. They will

literally be able to shop around for the most important investment they will make in their children’s future.

2) Competition: Prior to moving to Payson, I worked in the Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) for 28 years. I remember the rabid outcry when charter schools began rearing their bedeviled heads in Flagstaff. It was going to be the end of civilized education as we knew it. In retrospect, it was perhaps the best thing that ever happened to FUSD. Because we were no longer the only game in town, it forced us to be more competitive. We had to critically examine our comfortable old paradigms and develop a better product (i.e., more engaging and diverse learning opportunities).

As a result, FUSD created several innovative magnet schools and programs to enhance learning in the arts, leadership, STEM, environmental science, and languages, to name just a few.

In short, a K-8 charter school will not devastate our community or harm the friends of Rim Country. On the contrary, it will provide our children more diverse learning experiences while creating a more competitive educational environment. And for PUSD, it could be the catalyst for innovative change, the proverbial blessing in disguise.

Michale Fillerup

Shocked to learn about charter school Editor: This is an open letter to the Rim Country Educational Alliance and the council members from Payson and Star Valley, which formed the Alliance and appointed the board

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Protecting the Second Amendment

In the wake of the terrorist attack on San Bernardino, the president responded with an effort to distract Americans from this failure of national security by talking about gun control and stripping away due process for people on the no-fly list. These far-left proposals have been resoundingly debunked as foolish and ineffective to stop terrorism or gun violence. Even worse, this attack on our Second Amendment would actually result in increased gun violence and innocent lives lost.

There is no easy answer to the problem of violence we face in our country, but inhibiting the ability of law-abiding citizens to exercise their constitutional rights is nothing more than window dressing.

I am proud to have an A rating from the NRA and have fought my entire career to protect the Second Amendment. This includes listening and acting on your ideas, like when a constituent from Prescott, Ariz. inspired an amendment I introduced to block an ammo ban. That idea passed the House and could be signed into law as soon as next week.

The time has come for America to lead.

While the president has demonstrated he does not have the fortitude or leadership qualities necessary to accomplish the mission, there is too much at stake for our country to go quietly into the night. It is for these reasons, as well as to protect future generations, that Congress must unequivocally declare ISIS and its affiliates enemies of the United States.

We must authorize a decisive and robust AUMF. If the president won’t lead, Congress should. And that is why 17 brave colleagues and I recently called on the House to pass a new AUMF to destroy ISIS before going home for the holidays. I refuse to sit idle with so much at stake. The threats to our homeland are real and ISIS must be destroyed. The president’s failure to do his job shouldn’t prohibit Congress from doing ours. Let’s pass a new AUMF and wipe ISIS off the face of the Earth.

mailcall From page 4A

5A

members.

We were shocked to learn that the new university site might also allow a charter school.

The perfectly worded ad in the Dec. 8 Roundup pretty much said it all!

We have additional concerns. Whenever a for-profit entity exists, there should also be accountability. In a number of states, there are none; teachers are not required to be certified. Often, they are permitted to choose their own curriculum, plan their own programs, sometimes with extreme bias, changing actual history to fit their personal beliefs.

Not all students are permitted to attend, particularly low-income or special needs students.

Please consider your decisions very carefully.

Edward and Sylvia Freeman Editor’s note: Charter schools are public schools, funded by the state, which means they do have to accept low-income and special needs students who apply and if they have a waiting list have to have a random system for which students are enrolled. They can expel students or urge parents to take students out of the school if the teachers or administrators consider the student a poor fit. They do have more freedom to establish their own curriculum, but students take the same standardized tests as other public school students.

Newspaper of the year Editor: What an accomplishment! Great job and keep up the good work (and word).

Mike Dechter

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EDITOR’S NOTE: Christopher Creek resident Jim Hagen, a World War II veteran, recently took an Honor Flight journey to Washington, D.C. The organization raises money to fund the trips to take veterans to the nation’s capital. If you’re a veteran or the family member of a veteran, go to honorflight.org to arrange a flight. The organization is currently giving priority to World War II veterans.

AN INCREDIBLE SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY HONOR FLIGHT ARIZONA

Army vets, Air Force, Marines and Navy blue, Guardians and Honor Flight members and crew, Who boarded the airline for Washington Were all the guests of Honor Flight Arizona.

From the morning we left our cars at the curbs ‘Til the evening we left in our car for suburbs, We were truly guests of the Honor Flight crew, Who treated us royally, even more than they knew.

The World War memorial was our special treat; The place where patriotic people meet To reflect upon the selfless mighty ocean Of those who gave full measure of devotion.

This memorial showed us in every way What our country did to redeem the day.

The war memorials were sights to behold: Brought back memories of the brave and bold Men and women who gave it their all Enlisted even before their country’s call.

On this our special trip we felt the love Of our country’s heart, and that of God above.

So raise your banners high, your voices ring And go forth strong, don’t waste your time on anything.

Twas once in a lifetime, before laid on a gurney We took this Incredible Sentimental Journey. ©18 November 2015: James M. Hagen

Justices may upend districts Two cases could prove a windfall for Republicans by

Peter Aleshire

roundup editor

Two cases before the U.S. Supreme Court could not only overturn Arizona’s congressional and legislative district boundaries, they could remake the electoral map nationally — largely at the expense of Democrats.

One case bears directly on the maps drawn up by Arizona’s voter-approved Independent Redistricting Commission. The Supreme Court has already upheld letting a voter-approved commission take over the task of drawing legislative district lines. However, Republicans have pushed an appeal that has returned to the U.S. Supreme Court based on how the commission did its work.

If the court rules in favor of that appeal, it would force a redrawing of the existing district lines — probably in favor of Republicans who already control both houses of the Legislature and hold every statewide office.

Do non-voters count?

The second case would determine whether legislative districts have to have nearly equal populations — or nearly equal numbers of eligible voters. If the appeal of the district lines drawn in Texas succeeds, it would mean children, non-citizen immigrants and convicted felons would not count when drawing up district lines.

That would also prove a boon to Republicans nationwide, mostly because immigrant and Hispanic populations with a higher than average number of children would not count in drawing district lines. Typically, those groups are much more likely to vote Democratic.

Could throw races into chaos

Solution to 12/15 puzzle

The Arizona case, Harris v. Arizona, could have a big impact on congressional and state legislative district lines. That wouldn’t affect the safe Republican seat that includes Northern Gila County represented by Rep. Paul Gosar. But it could affect the congressional seat that includes Southern Gila County, considered one of the nation’s few fiercely competitive congressional seats — now held

by Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick.

Kirkpatrick is not running for a new term so she can seek the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat now held by Republican John McCain. The thereby vacated District 1 seat will likely prove one of the most hotly contested in the nation.

But a U.S. Supreme Court ruling next year could throw many races into chaos, if the

court orders a hasty redrawing of the lines by the Independent Redistricting Commission, created by the voters in 2000 to take the potentially highly partisan job of drawing boundary lines away from the Legislature.

The Redistricting Commission redrew the district lines based on the 2010 U.S. Census.

At the time, Arizona’s redistricting process had to gain the approval of the U.S. Attorney General’s Office under the terms of the Voting Rights Act because of previous efforts to lump as many Hispanics in as few districts as possible, to create more safe Republican seats — mostly in the Valley and Tucson.

A subsequent U.S. Supreme Court decision eliminated the requirement that states who had violated the Voting Rights Act in the past had to get federal approval of new redistricting efforts.

Diluting minority vote

But the Redistricting Commission drew the current legislative district lines with the “pre-clearance” requirement still in effect.

Therefore the commission made it a high priority to not “dilute” Hispanic voting strength so Hispanic voters could elect a candidate of their choice — presumably a Hispanic.

The Redistricting Commission relied on previous court cases that held that the populations in different districts could vary by as much as 10 percent without violating the “one man, one vote” provisions of the U.S. Constitution.

Therefore, the districts had differing populations — mostly intended to avoid clumping minority voters in only a few districts. That also had the effect of creating smaller districts with Democratic representatives and larger districts with Republican representatives. Out of the 12 Democratic-only districts, 10 had smaller than average populations. Out of the 17 Republican-only districts, 16 had larger than average populations.

That includes the district that includes Gila County, represented by Rep. Brenda Barton (R-Payson), Rep. Bob Thorpe (R-Flagstaff) and Sen. Sylvia Allen (R-Snowflake) The differences all amounted to less than 5 percent, compared to the 10 percent variation upheld in previous cases from other states. And a U.S. Appeals Court upheld the districts because the judges decided the commission was motivated by a desire to conform to the Voting Rights Act, not a desire to give Democrats an unfair advantage.

State officials fight commission

Both Republican Secretary of State Michele Regan and Republican Attorney General Mark Brnovich supported the appeal of that ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court in hopes of forcing the Redistricting Commission to redraw the districts to provide equal populations.

Despite the discrepancies in population by district, the Republicans won slightly nar-

rowed margins of control in both houses of the state Legislature. Statistics show that the makeup of the Legislature closely mirrored the percentage of votes cast by party, with Democrats getting slightly fewer seats than the total percentage of votes cast for Democratic candidates.

The Redistricting Commission’s boundaries also produced three of the relative handful of competitive races for U.S. Congress in the country.

The second redistricting case, based on districts in Texas, could have an even more far-reaching impact on district boundary drawing — not just in Arizona, but across the country.

Challenges use of Census figures

Plaintiffs in that case, Evenwel v. Abbott, challenged the use of the U.S. Census population figures as the basis for determining the number of people in each legislative district.

They maintain children, non-citizen immigrants, undocumented immigrants, prisoners and people with a felony record aren’t eligible to vote and therefore shouldn’t count in calculating district populations.

They maintained that districts should reflect the number of voters, not people who can’t cast a ballot.

However, opponents said even people who don’t vote deserve representation and should therefore count when it comes to drawing district lines.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard the case in December and the questions the justices asked suggested strong sympathy for the plaintiffs by the five Republican justices and skepticism on the part of the four Democrats on the court.

The “one man, one vote” standard currently applies to all legislative offices and districts, with the exception of the U.S. Senate.

That means a California senator represents 39 million voters while a Wyoming senator represents 560,000.

Before the civil war, states counted each slave in the state as 3/5 of a person when it came time to allocate seats in Congress, although the slaves could not vote. However, constitutional amendments adopted after the Civil War and reinterpreted during the civil rights movement of the 1960s firmly established the principle that districts should have the same populations.

The latest court case, however, maintains that counting people not eligible to vote in drawing up district lines effectively dilutes the power of the voters in some districts.

Political analysts say redrawing the line in accordance with that rule would mostly shift legislative representation to rural areas with fewer immigrants and children — mostly rural, Republican districts.

The justices will likely rule on the two cases sometime next year, perhaps in the midst of election campaigns nationwide.

Payson Roundup Friday, December 18, 2015

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Gila County’s employees received an early Christmas gift from the board of supervisors Dec. 15. The board agreed unanimously to the recommendation by county manager Don McDaniel to award raises totaling almost $500,000 to the 620 full-time-equivalent employees, based on performance appraisals for each employee for the period of July 2014 and December 2015.

The raises, which range from 3 to 1 percent, will be included in the employee’s

regular Jan. 15, 2016 paycheck. The total amount includes employee-related expenses, McDaniel told the supervisors.

He said the average pay increase is 2 percent and regular payroll deductions apply and will be subtracted accordingly.

This is the third year county employees could receive a pay increase based on their performance. However, the prior two increases were one-time, lump-sum payments rather than an increase in pay rates.

The raises were included in the 2015-2016 budget approved by the county supervisors this summer.

“Gila County employees continue to provide dedicated, high quality service to the citizens of Gila County. In many cases new and increased services have been provided without additional staff,” McDaniel said in the report he prepared for the supervisors seeking approval of the raises.

He said the pay increases recognize hard work by employees and management.

The county made an extensive study of its employment structure, job descriptions and requirements to make its positions competitive with other governments and the private sector.

Gila County road project priorities by

Teresa McQuerrey

roundup staff reporter

Gila County Public Works wants to make improvements to three different roads in the northern part of the county.

The board of supervisors prioritized the projects at its Dec. 15 meeting.

Steve Sanders, director of public works, said sometimes the county has received no funding for its proposed projects, but sometimes gets full funding. He said the Eastern Arizona Resource Advisory Committee will want to know what the supervisors consider priority.

The Eastern Arizona RAC is reviewing the proposals for possible funding through the Secure Rural School and Community Self Determination Act of 2000, which has been re-authorized by Congress. The amount of available funding is $350,724.24.

In the past, Gila County has used these funds to complete projects such as paving the

512 Road, resurfacing the 512 Road, paving the 423 Road, and paving the 55 Road.

Sanders said his division has developed three projects for consideration: • Resurface 4-plus miles of the Control Road, beginning at the end of the pavement near Tonto Village and continuing east for about $350,000.

• Repave one mile of the Gisela Road, starting 2 miles east of SR 87. This would get pavement over the hill and down the mountain toward Gisela at an estimated cost of $350,000.

• Replace one mile of Baker Ranch Road.

The project would begin at the intersection of Baker Ranch and Zachariae Ranch Road and continue west for a mile. A request of $350,000 is being submitted.

Sanders said the Baker Ranch Road project is on county right of way. The guidelines state the primary location for projects should be on federal land, however, projects can be on non-federal lands if they benefit the nation-

al forests. Baker Ranch Road provides access to thousands of acres of the Tonto National Forest.

“All three of the projects are important to the county and will be completed at some point in the future, with or without funding from the RAC Council,” Sanders said.

The Gisela Road and Baker Ranch Road projects will require additional funds from the county’s half-cent transportation tax.

The RAC Council will meet after the first of the year and hear proposals.

The supervisors voted to give Baker Ranch Road top priority because Sanders said if something is not done, the road will be totally lost within a year or two.

The Gisela Road was ranked second in spite of the fact that it is the only way in and out of the community south of Rye. Improvements to the Control Road were placed at the bottom of the list because they would be more of a benefit to visitors than residents.

Fire departments face budget crisis From page 1A property taxes on a $1.9 million budget.

“We haven’t given firefighters a raise in six years and now we’re facing service cuts,” said Hellsgate Fire Chief David Bathke, who has seen a 50 percent drop in property taxes on a $1.9 million budget.

“We’ve made cuts, but we’re at the limit,” said Christopher-Kohl’s Fire Chief Bob Lockhart, with an operating budget of $600,000.

The fire chiefs also hope the state this year will change the formulas included in the separate, property-tax-based Fire Department Assistance Tax. The current formula for the statewide tax effectively punishes fire districts that merge — something several in the Rim Country are studying as a way to reduce overhead and save money.

Bathke noted that Hellsgate currently gets about $34,000 from that tax and losing some of that money remains a barrier to consolidation.

Fallout from real estate collapse

The plight of rural fire district has its roots in the real estate collapse, which sent property values plunging and put the financial squeeze on almost all of the rural fire districts. Legislative efforts to limit property taxes compounded the problem.

Several changes in state law produced a perfectly awful financial storm for fire districts that rely on property taxes. The crisis hasn’t affected municipal fire departments like Payson nearly as much, since they rely mostly on money from sales and income taxes rather than property taxes.

Payson spends $3.5 million annually on its fire department and added a third fire station two years ago.

The problem for rural fire districts started with a law capping the property tax rate for fire districts at $3.25 for each $100 of assessed valuation.

Proposition limits property taxes

Moreover, the voter-approved Proposition 117 limited any increase in property taxes to 5 percent annually. Worse yet, the limit went into effect near the bottom of the real estate collapse, with property values unusually low.

The proposition also changed the formula fire districts use to calculate assessed values — further depressing revenues.

Many fire districts felt the effects of a 25 to 50 percent decline in assessed values during the recession. The limit on increases and the three-year lag in assessed value changes has kept fire district revenues low, even after the housing market recovery.

The combination has laid waste to local fire district budgets, said the three chiefs in an interview on Monday.

Alexis Bechman/Roundup

This week Rim Country firefighters responded to two house fires, but had to send undermanned fire trucks due to a budget crisis caused by the combination of a property tax rate cap and the recent drop in assessed values.

Moreover, a state retirement system rul- The 5 percent per year limit on the total ing and federal rules requiring districts to increase would remain, ensuring a gradual pay health benefits even for part-time work- rise in rates even if voters raised the cap. ers has made it far more difficult for the If the Legislature had allowed for inflation districts to rely on volunteer and reserve when it imposed the $3.25 cap, it would have firefighter programs — the key to keeping by now risen to more than $5 per $100 of costs down for many. assessed value, said Morris.

As a result, they’re all struggling.

Districts reach tax cap

Pine-Strawberry struggling

Pine-Strawberry Chief Morris said the department has cut several positions and faces even more severe impacts in the next several years. The department has a roughly $2.1 million budget, but this year got an increase of just $18,000 in property taxes — the first since 2010. The increase in health insurance premiums alone will eat up almost all of that increase in property tax revenue.

Pine in the past several budget cycles has cut three firefighter positions. When the department-owned truck used to haul brush for homeowners who Firewise their homes broke down, the department didn’t have enough money to fix it.

“We just keep facing more and more problems with funding,” said Morris.

Hellsgate has cut two positions and only avoided much deeper cuts with the help of a temporary federal grant. The department has also faced problems maintaining its reserve firefighter program or recruiting new, full-time firefighters with a starting salary of about $31,000 — compared to $50,000 for many Valley fire departments.

The chiefs remain hopeful the Legislature will allow voters to set the tax rate, even if it exceeds $3.25 per $100 of assessed value.

Districts in Rim Country that have reached their $3.25 cap include Pine/Strawberry, Canyon, Houston Mesa, Tonto Basin, Gisela, Beaver Valley and Hellsgate. The remaining small districts near their limit include Pleasant Valley, Round Valley, Christopher/ Kohl’s, Whispering Pines and East Verde Park.

Statewide, districts below their property tax cap could only raise an average of about $50,000 by boosting the tax rate to the legal limit, according to one report.

Lawmakers set up a study group to consider a solution to the problems rural fire districts face. Sen. Sylvia Allen (R-Snowflake) chaired the group, which included lawmakers and fire department representatives. The group issued a report, but broke up without making a recommendation for legislation to fix the problem.

Ironically enough, part of the present problem stemmed from a bill sponsored by her predecessor — then-Sen. Chester Crandell, said Morris. Crandell introduced a bill to curb alleged abuses and budget problems by a fire district in the White Mountains, but the new restrictions ended up putting the squeeze on every fire district in the state when the recession hit home.

Cattle growers name ‘Wrangler of the Year’ The Gila County Cattle Growers Association named Gerry Wheeler as “Wrangler of the Year,” thanks to his contributions as rancher, range technician, conservationist and politician.

The proclamation read, “As president of the association in 2002-2004, Wheeler fought persistently in Washington to successfully restore cattle to the Tonto.

“After selling his ranch, he dedicated his life to the ranching community as well as the citizens of Gila County. Over the years, he established himself as a professional

ranch resource technician, which gives him a great knowledge in articulating the debates on our environmental problems. He has served on many committees as a member of the National Resource Conservation Department.

“His conservation expertise can be seen daily on the tailings in Miami. Working with local ranchers, the project is the perfect marriage of ranching and mining industries that produced results. The success of this project spawned similar projects worldwide.

“As a city councilman, he was the liaison

between politics and the ranching industry, keeping all informed of policies that not only adversely affect the ranching community, but are also detrimental to all citizens. Wheeler spent many years helping and working with the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

“As mayor of Globe, he continues to strive for the betterment of the ranchers and for the community. His support of the SAFE Plan for healthy forests as well as his concerns over water rights and the adverse effects of predator releases in nearby areas are manifestations of his dedication.”

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

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Tonto Apache officer honored Closure of some forest roads in effect Quick action saves a life

A Tonto Apache Police officer that saved a man’s life in the casino was recently given an award for his valiant work.

On Aug. 22, officer Kirby Schneider was doing a business check at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino on the Tonto Apache Reservation when casino security told him a man had fallen down by the card room near the east entrance and was unresponsive.

Schneider told security to call for paramedics, while he rushed to the man’s aide.

Schneider checked for a pulse, but there was none. Moreover, the man wasn’t breathing. Schneider looked at the man’s eyes, but they were still.

Schneider started chest compressions and rescue breaths until paramedics arrived.

When they did, the man was breathing and had a pulse.

Paramedics took him to Banner Payson Medical Center and later that evening, Schneider learned

Snow in the Rim Country has left many forest roads impassable. Black Mesa Ranger District has instituted a winter closure of the Rim Lakes Recreation Area as of 4 p.m., Dec. 17. This closure includes vehicle access to Woods Canyon, Willow Springs and Bear Canyon lakes.

This winter closure order applies to wheeled motor vehicles only. The forest will remain open for winter recreational activities, including, but not limited to the use of snow machines. These closures are placed for public safety, protect forest resources and safeguard

Tonto Apache Police officer Kirby Schneider accepts an award from Chief Mary Schlosser for saving a casino customer.

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roundup staff reporter

The Rim Country’s financial services have recently expanded. Jeffrey C. Sloan is a certified financial planner and chartered financial consultant with the Scottsdale firm of Witnauer Sloan & Associates, LLC. He has opened an office in Payson at 620 E. Highway 260, Suite B3.

Sloan started in personal financial planning more than 20 years ago.

Before entering the field, he did management, consulting and financials in the corporate world, much of it in the auto industry.

“In the late 1980s, personal financial planning started to become a larger industry. I knew that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my career,” he said.

Sloan said he has opened an office in Payson because he and his wife love the area.

“We own property and have met many great people in Payson. When a lot of the people we have met found out what I do for a living, they have suggested I open an office in Payson as there were no other fee-only Certified Financial Planner™ practitioners in Payson.”

He explained the fees for his services are based on the client needs.

“We charge fixed, hourly or percentage of assets under management. All fees are disclosed in writing before the client engages our services.”

Sloan said his firm is a full service financial planning firm offering all types of financial planning and investment management, including retirement planning, estate planning and portfolio management.

These services are not just for people who already have well-padded bank accounts.

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doesn’t happen by accident, it happens by having a plan and working the plan,” Sloan said.

Those interested in developing a financial plan or refining one they already have in place can make an appointment with Sloan by calling 928-978-4947.

“Our first meeting is a time to get acquainted — it’s no cost, no obligation — we won’t be asking anyone to make any decisions or sign anything. We believe everyone should have time to think things over before making decisions. Our meetings with clients are strictly confidential,” Sloan said.

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only. Christmas Tree Cutting area 1B, off Forest Road 504 will remain open. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended.

Christmas tree permits are available at the Black Mesa Ranger District Monday- Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

For general forest travel on open roads, it is important to remember that forest roads are not maintained or regularly patrolled during the winter months. Traveling on forest roads is not advised during the winter and is at your own risk.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Provided photo

the man was in stable condition.

On Dec. 8, the Indian Country Intelligence Network presented Schneider with a lifesaving award at a ceremony in Mesa.

forest snowmobile routes.

The snow route originates at the Rim Top Trailhead, located at the junction of State Highway 260 and Forest Road 300 (Rim Road) and extends northwest into the Rim Lakes Recreation Area. Access to the snow route by car and truck traffic will be restricted at FR 300, 169, 34, 63, and 70A. The closure order and map will be posted on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests website at www.fs.usda.gov/asnf.

This closure order will limit access to Christmas tree cutting area 1A on the Black Mesa Ranger District to snowmobiles

Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Decide where your State Tax dollars go.

Send your tax dollars to Payson Community Kids, a local non-profit who values your support.

Under the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit (CTC), taxpayers can designate their state tax dollars to certain 501(c)3 charitable organizations and get a dollar for dollar reduction on their state tax..

Individuals can designate to $200 and couples $400 PCK is eligible for this tax credit because it provides assistance with food, clothing, medical and dental assistance to economically disadvantaged children and their families, thereby making PCK and Arizona qualified 501(c)3 charity.

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

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High school administrator named vice principal of the year by

Michele Nelson

told him he hoped to be in a position at one point in his career to win the same award.

But he learned he’d actually won the award in a roundabout manner.

“I went on the Arizona School Administrator’s website to look at a couple of professional development offerings and while I was on the page, I noticed a past winners section and I saw my name there for this year,” he said. “I think it might have been posted early

roundup staff reporter

A passing conversation with Payson High School Principal Brian Mabb resulted in a stunning result for vice principal Jeff Simon — the Assistant Principal of the Year Award.

He had no idea Mabb had taken his wish to follow in his boss’ footsteps seriously.

Mabb won the award for the 2011-12 school year and Simon

WEATHERREPORT Forecast by the National Weather Service

Friday

PAYSONREPORT

Sunny

57/28 Saturday

Sunny

57/27 Sunday

Mostly sunny

49/26 Monday

Mostly sunny

53/28 Tuesday

Mostly sunny

53/28

Weather courtesy of Bruce Rasch, weather.astro50.com

Payson Statistics DATE H Dec. 7 69 Dec. 8 67 Dec. 9 66 Dec. 10 66 Dec. 11 51 Dec. 12 39 Dec. 13 47 Dec. 14 34 Dec. 15 34 Dec. 16 37 Dec. 17 45

L 27 28 33 30 37 28 20 20 18 14 14

PRECIP.

0.01 0.74 0.48

Precipitation 2015 thru today 21.43 30-year Average through Dec. 22.08

Dec. 2015 1.23 Dec. Avg. 2.26

Average Payson Precipitation from the office of the State Climatologist at Arizona State University.

PAYSON POLLEN COUNT FORECAST Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

LOW-MED

LOW-MED

LOW-MED

LOW-MED

3.8 4.0 3.5 3.6

Dominant pollen: Grasses High: Pollen levels between 9.7 and 12.0 tend to affect most individuals who suffer from the pollen types of the season. Symptoms may become more severe during days with high pollen levels.

Medium: Pollen levels between 7.3 and 9.6 will likely cause symptoms for many individuals who suffer from allergies to the predominant pollen types of the season.

Low: Pollen levels between 0 and 7.2 tend to affect very few individuals among the allergy-suffering public.

Source: pollen.com

on their site, but it certainly surprised me to see my name under the Arizona Assistant Principal of the Year Award. It was an amazing feeling to say the least!”

Mabb happily told everyone about his vice principal’s award.

“He will be recognized in February at the Ignite ’16 Conference,” said Mabb. “His name will now be forwarded for national consideration to the National Association of Secondary School Principals … and have the possibility of becoming one of the top three finalists in the nation.”

Simon said the application was “certainly a long application,” which included recommendations from a student, a parent, a colleague and his principal.

“Without knowing what was said, I am still thankful that there were folks willing to write letters for me to be considered for this honor,” he said.

Jeff Simon

PHS Vice Principal

Simon credited Mabb with pushing him to take on responsibilities that increased his effectiveness as a principal.

“I couldn’t thank him enough

for the nomination as well as what he has done for me as a professional,” said Simon.

Simon said he’s unsure of exactly what tipped the scales in his favor, but he said instead of taking all the credit for good works, he gave credit to his colleagues, such as the agricultural instructor, David Rutherford.

The two collaborated on developing an aquaculture project that allowed the Agriculture students to raise game fish, which would be released in local Arizona waters for sport fishing while growing a water-based garden fed from the waste of the fish.

“This project is a circulating and sustainable way to grow fish as well as growing fruits and vegetables with the same water and power,” said Simon.

Along the way, the two developed a relationship with the Mogollon Sporting Association

that funded the project, and Arizona Game and Fish that supported the release of the fish into the wild.

Simon said this lab also may be used as a cross-curricular learning lab to put substance to numbers in math, an understanding of government regulations in civics, recreating and improving engineering as well as biology, physics and chemistry.

“I believe that the focus on kids and learning helped me to be nominated for this award,” Simon said.

The PHS vice principal felt most humbled by the outpouring of support.

“It is truly heartwarming and makes me that much more excited about receiving this honor as the assistant principal of Payson High School and Payson Unified School District — a great place to work and learn,” he said.

School board schedules only meeting of December The Payson School Board will meet Monday, Dec. 21 at 5:30, its first meeting since early November.

Agenda items include: • Naming as a “Hero of Education” Brooklyn Klein, 4th grader from JRE

• Consider Barry Cromer as a Qualified Evaluator • Review the vocational NAVIT program, which faces possible deep cuts.

• Review the budget for fiscal 2015-16.

This is not a complete list. The final

F O R The following reports and arrests were released by the Payson Police Department and Gila County Sheriff’s Office. All persons listed in this report are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. After reviewing cases, the Gila County Attorney’s Office often drops or modifies charges. If your name is listed and you are exonerated, please contact the Payson Roundup at editor@payson.com.

Dec. 7 – Raymond Lewis Ybarrondo, 66, Payson – theft and burglary-3rd degree-non-residential, fenced commercial, or residential yard.

Dec. 8 – Female Juvenile, 17 – theft; William Colten Creasy, 18, Geronimo Estates – driving with a suspended/canceled/revoked license.

Dec. 9 – Kathleen Morrissey, 40, Payson –

T H E

agenda will be available the Friday before the Monday meeting. For more information, please see the Payson Unified School District Website for the board meeting and agendas: https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicHome. aspx?ak=1001108.

R E C O R D

self-surrendered herself on a probation violation Dec. 10 – Joesaiah Ishtar Adams, 27, Payson – driving with a suspended/canceled/revoked license; Male Juvenile, 15 – minor in possession of vapor product; Male Juvenile, 15 – minor in possession of vapor product; Jay Monty Nesbit, 75, Pine-Strawberry – driving with a suspended/canceled/revoked license; Eileen Teresa Mitchell, 56, Payson – disorderly conduct-fighting; Matthew Ronald Selig, 39, Payson – shoplifting-concealment.

Dec. 11 – James Robert French, 61, Camp Verde – driving with a suspended/canceled/ revoked license and false reporting to law enforcement agency; Vicky Lynn Roberts, 47, Camp Verde – false reporting to law enforcement agency, drug paraphernalia-possession and mar-

ijuana-possession; Peter Andrew Welge, 58, Payson – three counts of disorderly conduct-fighting, domestic violence, assault-intentionally or recklessly causing physical injury and resisting arrest-uses or threatens to use physical force against peace office; Michael Roy Campus, 18, Second Mesa – minor with alcohol in body; Lane Browning, 51, Payson – possession of dangerous drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia; Dashney Hatch, 33, Star Valley – possession of drug paraphernalia; Shawn Fenical, 30, Star Valley – possession of drug paraphernalia.

Dec. 12 – Cody Michael Lofano-Masse, 22, Pine-Strawberry – DUI with BAC of .08 or higher and DUI-alcohol, drug, vapor, or combination thereof; Alecia Nekole Starkey, 18, Payson – shoplifting.

O B I T U A R I E S

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commercial real estate during their 30 years here in the Rim area together.

Jeanne was a lover of all animals and was known for her giving nature. She donated to the Humane Society of Central Arizona and other animal charities, as well as took in any wounded creature found.

Jeanne will be loved and missed by surviving sons, Brian, Randy, and brother Danny.

At Jeanne’s spoken request, no services will be held. Flowers and condolences may be sent to 208 W. Sherwood Dr., Payson, AZ 85541.

FREE Did you know that you can contribute to the St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank in Payson, and that it will not cost you anything? Arizona Law allows you to contribute up to $200 (per individual) or $400 (per couple filing jointly) to the Food Bank and get your contribution back as a reduction of your Arizona taxes even if you do not itemize. Your entire donation will go to the needy right here in the Payson area and 100% of it actually provides food for the hungry along with utilities and rent assistance for those in need. But you have to donate before December 31.

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Mrs. Jeanne Katheryn Haack, a 33-year resident of Payson, Ariz., died Dec. 7, 2015 at the age of 72.

Jeanne was born Jeanne Katheryn Kane on June 15, 1943 in the state of Ohio. She left home as a teenager and set out for Arizona to make her own life. She married young to Posey Tackett and had two boys, Randy and Brian. They lived in the Phoenix area for many years before moving to Payson in 1984.

Jeanne soon divorced Posey and met her second and final husband, Bud Haack, in 1986. They were known for their success in

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Vernon M. Carmean (1926-2015)

Vernon M. Carmean, age 88, passed away on Dec. 15, 2015. Vern was born on Christmas Day 1926 in Los Angeles, Calif. to Millard and Belle Carmean. He grew up with a brother and four sisters on farms and ranches from Northern California to Tucson, Ariz., with the family finally settling in Oregon.

His desire to serve his country while still in high school was so strong, his parents gave consent for him to join the Navy at age 16 serving on the U.S.S. Sarasota during World War II in the South Pacific.

He returned to the Northwest after the war and moved to Kansas City after meeting his first wife. There he started a contracting business and they raised their family. He was an excavation and grading contractor in Kansas City from 1952 to 1976 and a farmer in Arthur, Mo. until they moved to Mesa, Ariz. for his first attempt at retirement. Retirement didn’t work for him and he continued working through 2011.

He found true love a second time after losing his first wife in 2001. Vern and Sandy met and married in 2002. They both felt so blessed moving back to the Rim Country in 2014, with all

the natural beauty and wonderful neighbors.

Vern is survived by his sisters, Jeanette White and Charlene Colwell; his wife of 14 years, Sandra Carmean; his four children, Deborah Riney (Texas), Craig Carmean and wife Madonna (Arizona), Kurt Carmean and wife Nancy (North Carolina), Roxann Carmean and husband Lanny Floyd (Arizona); two stepchildren, Rick Summers and wife Barb (Arizona), Bob King (Washington); 11 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and many friends who will miss Vern, who never met a stranger, and loved people with his big heart.

A memorial service will be held at Messinger Mortuary, 901 S. Westerly, Payson, Ariz. on Saturday, Dec. 19. Visitation is at 2 p.m., followed by the service at 3 p.m. Additionally Vern will receive a Military Service with Honors at National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 23029 N. Cave Creek Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85024 on Monday, Dec. 21 at 12:30 p.m.

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SPORTS

Friday, December 18, 2015

11A

Two Longhorn wrestlers go undefeated in tournament by

Don Heizer

phs wrestling coach

Last week was busy for the Longhorn grapplers as they competed in a three-way event, in Wilson Dome on Wednesday, with matches with Bradshaw Mountain High School and Mohave High School and participated in the Witt Duals hosted by Show Low High School.

In the Wednesday event, the Horns split with Bradshaw Mountain and Mohave. In the first match with Bradshaw Mountain, the Longhorns were in the short end of the score 46-36. The weekend before, the grapplers had defeated the Bears in the Camp Verde Tournament 39-30. A couple of lineup changes due to injury and eligibility spelled the difference. In matches wrestled the Horns and Bears split 4 and 4. Taking on Mohave, from Bullhead City, the score was 48-30 in favor of the home team. The Longhorns won six of the seven matches wrestled.

On Friday and Saturday, 16 teams tangled in the Witt Duals in Show Low. The competition was the toughest so far this season for the mostly inexperienced wrestlers. Top teams and frequent contenders

for state championships included Show Low, Morenci, St. Johns, Thatcher and Holbrook. Along with Sunrise Mountain, Sandra Day O’Connor, Winslow, Blue Ridge, Mogollon, and Santa Cruz who were also highly competitive in some weights.

The Horns’ 14 weight classes brought home more than their share of the gold with Dylan Keeney capturing the championship in the 126-pound weight class and Chris Johnson winning the top prize in the 160-pound classification. Dylan went 10-0 for the weekend, including two victories over Nico Carrasco from Morenci.

In the Payson-Morenci dual on Saturday morning, Keeney eked out a 6-5 overtime victory. Hours later, Keeney once again prevailed, this time 6-4, after falling behind 4-1 in the first period. Keeney advanced to the finals with a pin in 3:53 over Quintin Foster from Winslow.

Johnson was also 10-0 during the tournament. The sophomore wrestled in the 160-pound class usually dominated by juniors and seniors. In the semi-final round, Johnson beat Peyton Phelps of Thatcher. In the finals, Johnson wres-

Photo courtesy of DJ Craig

tled his way to a 5-1 decision against Winslow’s Darrien Brown, who last year denied him a spot in the state tournament. This time Johnson captured the

160-pound gold.

Tito Vega once again qualified for the mini tournament, as he had last week at Camp Verde. He met stiff competition,

losing 5-1 to Quentin Begody of Winslow in the semi-finals and coming up short to Angle Moreno from the host Cougars by a 7-2 margin.

The less-experienced team members found victories tougher to come by than they had the previous weekend in Camp Verde. Nonetheless, they gained valuable experience by wrestling against such strong opponents. This helps the young wrestlers to better understand when coaches say becoming an accomplished wrestler is “a process, not an event.”

Many of the wrestlers in the finals of the Witt Duals will face one another again for championship of the Payson Invitational Wrestling Tournament at the Dome on Jan. 22-23 and in the state tournament in Prescott three weeks later.

Individual records for the week were 120 lbs. Allan Cerna 3-6, 126 lbs. Dylan Keeney 11-0, 132 lbs. Brooks Randall 4-3 (missed Saturday taking the ACT test), 138 lbs. Victor Olvera 1-1, 145 & 152 split

by Kenny Ayers/Pierce Norman 3-7, 160 lbs. Chris Johnson 11-0, 182 lbs. Marco Vazquez 6-4, 195 lbs. Ulises Vazquez 4-3, 220 lbs. Tito Vega 8-3.

Elk hunters a shot in the arm to Rim Country economy If you have tried to get on the Beeline along the Mogollon Rim. These hunters on a Thursday or Friday for the last three have waited months for this opportunity months and have been slowed by the and most plan numerous visits during long line of campers, trailers and motor their elk season. homes, no doubt you may be wondering, The rut hunts of September are the “Where are they going?” The toughest to draw, with the likelihood of securing a tag at about 3 great majority are hunters head- outdoors ing to elk country to preseason under the rim percent. More permits are availscout or to start their hunt. able for later rifle hunts. The late Well, the first week of archery hunts are the easiest to draw, but have a low success December is over and the last rate. elk hunt in the Rim Country has Most of these eager hunters come to a close. Since September, spend the entire week-long seathe hunt has drawn a steady son plus a few scouting days stream of traffic from the Valley right here in Rim Country, freand other cities throughout the Dennis Pirch quenting numerous local busiregion. nesses.

Hunters in search of the They are relatively easy to “American wapiti,” also known as the Rocky Mountain elk, have drawn identify with pickups, trailers and camptags in the lottery system conducted by ers in the local parking lots with some the Arizona Game and Fish Department. kind of ATV also in tow. The state tax dolArizona is one of the western states lars generated by those new purchases that is known for its quality elk herds also greatly benefit the Arizona citizenry. and trophy bulls, which roam the more For those wanting a bit more comfort, the remote areas of our state — especially many motels and a few bed and breakfast

operations are the benefactors of those lucky elk permit hunters. Local restaurants will have customers clad in camouflage who will be having early morning breakfast and late evening dinners that will fit their hunting plans.

Those who camp often shop at the grocery stores and fill their tanks at local gas stations and pick up whatever they’ve forgotten at Payson, Pine and Star Valley stores. By mid-week, this same routine is often duplicated as various items run low in the elk camp.

For those hunters who didn’t have the time to scout, an investment in a local outfitter or guide can pay big dividends.

Many families in the area supplement their incomes at this time of year by working as guides and outfitters and assist the hunters in harvesting a trophy bull. Knowledge of the local units is invaluable, especially after the first few days of the hunt when the animals seek the deepest and darkest canyons so difficult to reach without young help and encouragement.

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E L A S

In addition to the out of town hunters, the local residents who secure that coveted elk tag are thinking more about a year’s supply of red meat for the family as well as the thrill of the hunt. The nutritional value is excellent, with almost no harmful cholesterol and obviously no preservatives and steroids.

When an elk is harvested, the work really does just begin. I frequently get phone calls at all hours of the day and night about who in town will process or butcher my elk? This is also the busy time for numerous local processors who have walk-in coolers filled with elk taken by hunters that want their meat to be packaged and ready to be taken home when they break camp. In most cases, these elk hunters are not equipped to take the elk home unless already processed and quick frozen. This is a cost they gladly pay to the local businesses that process wild game. Again, another boost to the local economy when family-operated seasonal businesses thrive.

Another aspect of elk hunting is the

possibility of mounting a trophy bull and Payson has one family-owned taxidermy business, Mogollon Taxidermy, which becomes busy during the fall months.

They are literally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week receiving racks and capes which will keep them busy for the next calendar year producing a true “work of art” for the successful hunter.

In conclusion, the great American tradition of hunting elk in the West pays big dividends to Rim Country communities.

Payson’s reputation as the heartland of Arizona elk country lures outdoorsmen who want the experience of the vast mountains and canyons of the wide open spaces of the West.

The elk herd of the Central Arizona mountains is one of the most valuable natural resources we have and must be managed wisely — when that is accomplished, everyone benefits.

Enjoy this great late fall weather in the Rim Country, God’s creation.

Part Two Next Week: Management of a valuable natural resource.

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12A

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Payson High School concert showcases talent

by

Peter Aleshire

roundup editor

They danced.

They sang.

They played the tuba.

Last week, Payson High School music students displayed an astonishing variety of skills — and a deft ear for just the right note.

The end-of-the-year concert included dancing and singing with a Broadway twist, beginning guitar students who composed songs of impressive dexterity, a concert band finding its footing and a choir with a snappy beat — and an impressive assortment of hair dye jobs.

The PHS music department remains almost entirely dependent on contributions from the public, fundraisers and donations through the Credit for Kids tax credit program. So donate before Dec. 31 to control where your tax money goes.

The PHS band has been rebuilding this year,

with a new band director and a shrunken roster.

However, while the band struggled through marching season due to a smaller contingent of high steppers, the concert band has already achieved a delicacy of sound that layers oboes on top of flutes backed by French horns and trumpets — each instrument clear in the weaving of sound.

Meanwhile, the show choir has assembled a professionally polished series of numbers, with lavish costumes. For a video of one of the dance numbers, to payson.com.

The Payson School District holiday concert season has nearly wrapped up now, with just the Payson Elementary School offering still ahead — since last week’s snowstorm forced a cancellation.

But there’s still plenty of time to donate to Credit for Kids, to keep alive the extracurricular programs like band that studies show increase graduation rates, college attendance rates, cognitive skills and grades.

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

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Payson council approves two-week stays in driveway RVs by

Alexis Bechman

roundup staff reporter

The council again last week weighed whether residents can house guests in RVs temporarily on their property.

After some discussion, the council approved letting homeowners let guests stay in travel trailers up to 14 days.

They added one provision: if an RV were parked in the front setback of a home they would need to be on a paved driveway.

On larger lots, with more room, RVs

Non-lead ammo protects condors The Arizona Game and Fish Department has expanded its options for big game hunters drawn for hunts in the California condors’ core range (GMU 12 A/B and 13 A/B) to obtain nonlead ammunition for their hunts.

Non-lead ammunition will now be available at all regional Game and Fish offices in some of the most popular calibers.

Hunters are encouraged to check a region’s current inventory by visiting www.azgfd.gov/ condor before making the trip, as not all calibers may be available.

Inventory will not be replenished once it is out of stock at the Game and Fish offices.

Non-lead ammunition may also be obtained in person at any Sportsman’s Warehouse.

Cabela’s and the department’s other retail partners will honor the coupon through the mail-in process only. Cabela’s in-store pick up will not be available this year.

Important points to remember

• Check the department condor Web page for current inventory available at the regional offices prior to making the trip.

• Please do not call to check inventory.

• If your desired non-lead ammo is not available through the department’s regional offices or Sportsmen’s Warehouse, fill out the card that accompanied your tag and follow the mail-in instructions.

• For hunters using the mailin card, please use a physical address and provide a phone number for follow-up in the event of a problem with the order.

• The coupon is valid for one box of loaded ammo or one box of bullets for reloading their own ammunition, and only for upcoming hunts. Coupons are invalid after the hunt has closed.

Shop soon to avoid possible supply shortages.

Non-lead ammo now comes in many calibers and grain weights, and from multiple manufacturers.

could be parked outside that setback in the yard.

The town has wrestled with this issue for some time.

Staff initially proposed various stay lengths, from two weeks, 90 days with an administrative permit from community development to up to one year for caregivers with proof of medical need.

The Planning and Zoning Commission did not recommend these longer stays and the council agreed.

They asked staff to re-work the code just for short stays.

Latest iteration

At Thursday’s council meeting, Sheila DeSchaaf, with community development, presented the latest code iteration.

Residents can now let guests park an RV on their property for up to 14 days so long as they follow some basic rules.

They include: • No more than one RV can be at a home at one time.

• Generator use is prohibited.

• Utility connection is for quick-connect/disconnect services only, including

electricity and water.

• All RV wastewater must be self-contained and cannot be dumped in a septic or the sewer system.

One Payson resident said he was against the proposal because it would create a nuisance for neighbors. He said if a neighbor houses a guest for more than two weeks it would be up to him to report it.

The new ordinance would not trump more restrictive homeowner association rules.

The council added a 36-month sunset

clause on the code.

Also at Thursday’s council meeting: • The council approved the second round of funding from the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona. The town received $11 million from WIFA last year, will receive $11 million this year and a third $11 million loan next year to complete the C.C. Cragin pipeline project.

• Accepted portions of South Mud Springs Road and East Granite Dells Road from the Rim Country Educational Alliance and Foundation.

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Unwavering support

Hunters in Arizona have demonstrated unwavering support for the non-lead ammunition program with 85 to 91 percent of hunters in the condors’ core range voluntarily participating in lead reduction efforts over the past seven years.

Lead poisoning has been identified as the leading cause of diagnosed death in endangered condors and the main obstacle to a self-sustaining population in Arizona and southern Utah.

Studies suggest that lead shot and bullet fragments found in animal carcasses and gut piles are the most likely source of lead exposure.

Many hunters do not realize that the carcass or gut pile they leave in the field usually contains lead bullet fragments.

Gut piles from animals harvested with non-lead ammunition provide an important food source for the condors and should be left in the field.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, which coordinates condor management with Arizona Game and Fish, also offers a similar lead reduction program in southern Utah.

For information on condors and lead and a list of available non-lead ammunition, visit www. azgfd.gov/condor.

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aroundthe rim Snow a spectacular parade backdrop A Christopher Creek instant classic “Too Tall” Bill and Susan featured their would be the best way to describe last large blow-up Santa on the back of Saturday night’s Christmas Electric their unit. Further back the spectacular Light Parade. The 17 superbly decorat- “too tall” snowman rode high above ed entries were not the reason. Nor was the Landmark entry. There were Josh the fact that there were no more than and young Hayden on a quad. Dean 50 hardy spectators sprinkled along the and Genny’s Red Sled was well lit with parade route that made it so Doc and Pepper in the rumble special. another week seat. Arriving at the very last The night was still and pitch- in the creek minute, Randy Hostee unloaded black. Covering the ground two quads he trailered in from and adorning the trees was a Colcord. Elf Julia drove one fresh six-inch snow. When they with her friend Megan aboard. began to arrive, the lighted conThen there were Alex and veyances were like jewels in the grandkids, Scott and the darkness as they threaded Marilyn, Bud light John, Pam their way up the Loop to the and Dave Voita, Mr. and Mrs. staging area at the Tall Pines Duane Hansel and a host of Market. Even the flashing lights Rod Britain others. from the Christopher-Kohl’s And then we were off! The Fire District emergency vehicle reflect- eight on Santa’s sleigh complained not ed back from the white backdrop well once about the night’s chill. Passing out in the woods. the Christopher Creek Lodge and the Folks milled around and took pho- Wheeler Inn one would imagine themtos of all the entrants. How bright, selves in a wonderland of lights. It was colorful and vibrant the lights were. about there that the three deer stopped

to watch the passing parade — yes, three real whitetail deer!

Way down Columbine road, near the homestead, the trees hung heavy with white adornment, arching over the narrow lane. Ah, the night was a team of horses and some sleigh-bells shy of a Currier and Ives moment.

A last-minute change of venue had Sheila up at Creekside hosting all the post-parade participants and spectators shoehorned in on top of her busy dinner crowd. In the back, Dave and Rosemary, with Irma and Alex, raffled off some fabulous prizes to the parade entries. Did we hear one of the prizes was a free carwash — down at the carwash on the Creek?

At the kids’ party down at the fire station that afternoon, Santa arrived to nearly 25 children and more than that number of parents and grandparents.

After reading a story with the help of elves Julia and Megan, the Ol’ Boy visited with each young one on his lap until we got to the big boys who just wanted

to shake hands. Each one told him of their wishes — there were a number of requests for hoverboards this year and one girl wanted a boyfriend!

Every year, it seems there is a special moment and this year there were two. After ascertaining that all the little kids had seen Santa, he then let out with a sharp summons, “Spencer, come on up here.” It was as if Spencer was sitting on springs. With a smile across his entire face he came forward. He announced last year that he was too big to sit in Santa’s lap.

Spencer had a big box of cookies for Santa this year. He told Santa his mom made them for him. He then shared his list and asked for a hug. He might tower a foot taller than Santa, but he’s just a great kid. We can only speculate that he has been shopping at the Valley malls with his mom. A neighbor shared the story that on the trip here, Spencer announced to his mom that he was going to the Creek to see the real Santa!

Kerry Blanton lives in the mobile

home park and walks his dogs around the loop a couple times a day. Sadly, he shared that his sister Kay perished in a horrific car accident near the Four Peaks turnoff on SR 87 a month ago.

She lived in Star Valley and volunteered to drive a neighbor to a funeral in the Valley at the time of the accident. Kay was born in Minneapolis, Minn. and was just 52.

From the “Must be the Water” file — it has come to our attention Mr. and Mrs. Hansel tied the knot over in Laughlin, Nev. a couple weeks back. Duane had been courting Judy for 29-1/2 years. No sense rushing into anything!

And then Mike from Tall Pines Market and Darlene got hitched in a ceremony down at Tonto Creek last week.

Our congratulations go out to both couples!

Now, perhaps unrelated to what you just read, my new favorite line comes from Cardinals coach Bruce Arians, quote: “No risk it, no biscuit” … and that’s another week in the Creek.

Storm turns Tonto Village into winter wonderland Tonto Village looks like a winter wonderland this week. The snow started coming down early Monday morning while we were snug in our beds and continued to come down all day — and it was so foggy it looked as if the clouds were down to tree level. By the afternoon, the snow was over ankle high and my satellite dishes were full of snow.

No Internet, no television and no phone.

Luckily I have a very long bamboo pole that can reach the satellite dishes on the roof and I tried to sweep them clean. My efforts proved to be enough to get my phone, Internet and television back up.

The snow continued to come down for the rest of the day. I haven’t measured how much we actually have on the ground, but according to my boots, maybe about 10 inches.

On Tuesday morning, the snowplows came through to clear Johnson Boulevard and the side streets thanks to the Gila County road crew. I hope every-

one had their vehicles off the streets so the grader could get through.

According to the weather the reports I have heard, more of village the white stuff will be on the way this weekend. I think we will have a white Christmas.

If you are a Facebook fan, I’m sure you have seen some really nice pictures by Roy Tolby, Rita Spalink and Aimee Olinger.

They braved the weather to capture the beauty of snowfall Janet among the tall pines in Tonto Snyder Village.

Tonto Village Chapel

This week in the Village, the Tonto Village Chapel will be holding a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 18. After the ceremony, hot bowls of chili will be served and then everyone will get together to sing Christmas carols around the Village.

On Saturday, Dec. 19, The Double D Café will host an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest at about 6 p.m.

Santa will be making an appearance from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for pictures, so bring the kids along.

On Christmas Day, the Double D will be hosting a community potluck dinner at 2:30 p.m. Bring a side dish to share with your neighbors.

Domino Divas

Jake the Hound Dog and the Divas’ mascot showed up for his visit to the Divas this past Wednesday.

He came in howling to everyone as if to say, “I’m here, where’s the food?” The ladies all make such a fuss over him and he acknowledges the adoration by visiting each one of the ladies by coming by their chair and allowing them to pet him. What a dog! We all love him and we are all disappointed if he doesn’t show

up on Wednesday afternoons. There is one drawback, however, the slobbering ... some of the ladies quickly get a napkin and wipe it away, he doesn’t mind at all.

After he has greeted everyone and been fed a few doggy bones, he settles down by the table and stays with the ladies until we leave. He will really be confused next Wednesday because there will be no Dominoes on Dec. 23. Sometimes Jake will come to our door looking for a handout and Bill is always willing to find something for him.

Recipe

Since Jake won’t be with us for Christmas, a special treat will be made for him. It’s call Doggie Treats for Humans from the “Fireflies Can Cook” cookbook submitted by the late Sandy Kalmar and I share it here in her memory. Sandy played dominoes with the Divas every summer.

6 squares of almond bark

1-1/2 cup each Cheerios and Rice Chex 2 handfuls of chopped walnuts (about 1-1/2 to 2 cups or substitute a handful of pretzels) Melt almond bark in microwave oven for 4 minutes until soft and melted.

Add all other ingredients and mix well.

Spread on cookie sheet and refrigerate for 2 hours. Break apart and enjoy. It can be shared in small amounts with dog, but is mostly for their people.

Birthdays

Next week is very quiet for birthdays; there are only two that I know of. On Dec. 22, Monica Savage of Payson Fire Department will celebrate her birthday, and then on Dec. 23, Jan Farmer of Tonto Village adds another candle to her birthday cake. You know those memories that make you laugh out loud? I hope the both of you make many new ones on your special day. Happy birthday.

Characters under the Rim – Julian Journigan, Part 2 Julian Journigan and his cousin His passenger was none other than Charley See were partners beginning Journigan’s wife Margaret. Juan called in 1921 operating the government mail to her, “Maggie! Save the first class between Payson and Globe. They had mail!” They made it through, but other graduated from a horse-drawn mail details of the adventure are lost. wagon to a Cadillac touring car that Journigan would drive from Payson would carry five passengers and to Globe one day, and then their luggage as well as the make the return trip the next back when mail. day. Each way he stopped for However, a year after obtainlunch with his passengers at the ing the Cadillac, Charlie See Angler’s Inn near the enlarging opted out of the partnership Roosevelt Lake. The meal was and Julian enlarged the route always the same: beans, jerky, by landing additional governgravy and hot biscuits. The trip ment contracts from Globe all was an adventure for the passengers. The climb up Ox Bow the way to the Verde Valley.

Hill often required them to get Having won these additions he out and help push the car up the sublet portions of the routes to Stan Brown hill. They would place stones others. For example, one of the routes was from Rye to Gisela, then over behind the wheels so the car would not the Sierra Ancha range to Young. These roll backward.

Folks along the route often hoped to rural routes were called Star Routes because the asterisks in the contract obtain the latest news and local gossip from the mailman since they did not noting the sublets looked like stars.

Journigan gave the contract between receive newspapers nor have radios.

Gisela and Young to Duke Hale who The postmistress at Roosevelt, Stella in turn sublet it to 16-year-old Dallas Frasier, was notorious for reading all Wilbanks. Wilbanks made $35 a month the postcards and would relay their conmaking two trips a week with pack tents to the mail carrier.

In 1925 the Journigan family built mules. He would stop at Spring Creek to eat and then arrive at Young by the a house on Payson’s Main Street, but end of the day. After delivering the mail seven years later in 1932 he lost his bid to postmistress Ola Young and spending for the mail route. He was 48 years old the night he returned the next day car- and went to work on the Chilson cattle rying the mail from Young. When Tonto ranches near Rye. He and Margaret Creek was too high to cross Wilbanks sold their home in Payson to one of would have to wait until it went down. his sub-contractors, Ed Fuel, who soon Such was the ordeal of carrying mail in joined the Forest Service. Fuel became the 1920s, but Dallas Wilbanks saved an assistant ranger in the Payson office the money he made and bought 150 under a series of superintendents until acres in Round Valley for $750. He con- he retired in 1953 and moved to Phoenix tinued carrying the mail until the mort- where he died in 1963. gage was paid.

Julian Journigan, while working for Another story concerning Journigan’s the Chilson brothers, continued his sub-contracts was when a driver named hobby, the kind many Rim Country Juan attempted to drive his wagon men conducted. He prospected for gold. through Rye Creek. It was running In April 1941 he worked his claim on high and the wagon was almost lost. Slate Creek and then stopped at the

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Sunflower Store for refreshment where he suddenly died of a heart attack. He was 57 years old and is buried in the Payson Pioneer Cemetery.

Meanwhile Ed Fuel sold the Journigan house on Main Street to Edger and Ruby Caddenhead and in 1985 it was sold again

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to Mel and Jan Laumb. Renters trashed the house and a few ghost stories circulated about it. However it was destined for several other transitions, becoming a restaurant and gift shop called The Heritage House, later The Mogollon Grille, and still later Mad Dawgs and

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Mel’s Restaurant, The Journigan House and ever-so-briefly Boston Commons.

The ghost stories persisted and drew national attention when a team of professional ghost hunters produced a program there.

Next: Belle Lovelady

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Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

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aroundthe rim Mercury levels force closure of school gym The October discovery of pos- teams practicing in a local church sibly elevated-levels of mercury gymnasium and all games played in the Pine Strawberry School on an away-only basis. gymnasium floor was a setback Following the discovery of administrators, teachers and mercury, Barlow issued a statestudents could not have antici- ment saying, “We obviously take pated. the health of our students and While high doses of mercury staff very seriously and although can be fatal to humans, even we recognize it will be inconvelow doses can adversely impact nient, the closure of the building the growth of the nervous sys- is necessary.” tems and recent studies show it can harm the cardiovascular and PSFR needs $80,000-plus immune systems.

The calculations are comThe startling find occurred plete, plans have been laid about the time administrators and the Pine Strawberry Fuel were applying for a building Reduction Committee estimates renewal grant from the Arizona it must raise $83,000 before this School Facilities Board. spring to host a third The grant was to successive brush pickup repair a crack in the rattlin’ program. the rim gym floor, but while testIf that amount is not ing in order to write the raised there will be no grant, the contaminant brush pickup, PSFR was found in the rubbermembers warn. ized floor coating.

The estimate for a “The mercury was 2016 pickup is someused as a catalyst when what higher than the they were installing the two previous programs floor,” Pine Strawberry partly because this Max Foster School superintenspring, PSFR will probdent-principal Cody ably be forced to pay Barlow said.

Gila County $17,250 to dump colThe floor is an original that lected brush, needles and leaves had been in place since the school was built in the late 1980s. at the Buckhead Mesa Landfill During my 37-year coaching south of Pine.

The past two years, the councareer, which included both boys ty has waived the dump fee, but and girls basketball, I recall Gila County Supervisor Tommie playing on scores of similar rubMartin and others have told comberized floors at schools around mittee members to not expect a the state.

Because of the floors’ sound fee waiver in 2016.

Also this spring, PSFR will not absorption and resiliency, they have the financial reserves it had were very popular in the 1980s, the previous two years because especially in multipurpose rooms last spring the truck and trailthat are used as gyms, cafeterias er PSFR uses for the pickup, and classrooms.

I believe Rim Country Middle which is on loan from the Pine Strawberry Fire Department, School has a similar floor.

“This is a very widely used needed thousands of dollars of floor throughout the country, so mechanical repairs.

After footing the repair bills, it will be interesting to see how it is handled at the state level,” PSFR’s financial reserves were exhausted. said Barlow.

During a PSFR public meeting After the contaminant was in early November, committee discovered at P/S School, the gym and cafeteria were com- treasurer showed the audience pletely closed because the two that in 2015, the group collected $39,334, but paid out $55,777, facilities were connected.

A few weeks ago, however, the including repairs and pickcafeteria and locker rooms with up costs, creating a deficit of $17,250. outside access were reopened.

In the past two years, PSFR “We are basically just out of the gym as of now,” said Barlow. picked up and deposited nearly Barlow is working hand in 2.9 million pounds of brush and hand with the School Facilities needles at the landfill.

Pine Strawberry Fire Chief Board and other agencies to recGary Morris has long stressed tify the problems.

“We are currently waiting on that ridding the two mounthe ADEQ and Department of tain hamlets of those fuels are Health Services to determine crucial in protecting Pine and if (the mercury level) is at an Strawberry from the devastating impacts of catastrophic wildunhealthy level,” said Barlow.

Environmental cleanup crews fires.

PSFR is currently conducting and inspectors have been seen working in the gym, which is a communitywide campaign to now strictly off limits to stu- raise the money necessary for dents, teachers and community the upcoming pickup. members.

Donations can be mailed to: The boys and girls basket- Pine Strawberry Fuel Reduction, ball seasons have continued with Inc., P.O. Box 67, Pine, AZ 85544.

Max Foster photo

So-called “roof rakes” will certainly be popular as El Niño produces more snow in the Rim Country. The rakes allow snow to be scooped off roofs without the danger of having to shovel while standing on wet and slipper roofs, some of which are built at very steep angles.

If the committee does not receive the necessary funds to proceed with the pickups, donations will be used to develop and implement alternate methods of removing brush.

Committee members promise to keep homeowners the public updated.

chips, gourmet lollipops and World Chocolate Bars.

All proceeds from the raffle benefit the library.

The library will close for the holidays Dec. 24, 25 and 26. It will also close at 2 p.m. on Dec. 31 and be closed New Year’s Day.

Santa shows up

Pastor issues invitation

Ol’ St. Nick made a special guest appearance on Wednesday, Dec. 16 at the Pine Strawberry School’s Christmas Extravaganza held at the Pine Community Center.

The event was highlighted by the traditional tree auction, a band concert, Christmas program and Santa’s presence.

Church on Randall Place Pastor John Lake emailed this week inviting all Pine-Strawberry residents to attend a Christmas Eve service.

It will be held at 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 24 at the church, located at 6338 W. Randall Place in Pine.

“All are welcome to join us for this special celebration,” Pastor John says.

The church website is www. churchonrandallplace.org.

Chocoholic frolic

The Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library staff will host a special drawing at noon, tomorrow.

Saturday, Dec. 19, to select the winner of a weeks-long raffle that has as a prize $225 worth of See’s candies and several decorative holiday items.

Tickets will be on sale until raffle time at six for $5 or 15 for $10.

The basket contains various See’s boxes including truffles, nuts and chews, milk chocolates, Toffee-ettes, peanut brittle, peppermints, Jolly Snowman, Holiday Fancy Box, molasses

Predictions could pan out

Snowstorms in mid-November, two this past week and one predicted for early Monday seem to indicate that the blockbuster El Niño winter climate scientists are predicting will pan out.

Since last year, forecasters have maintained there is a 90 percent chance El Niño will produce record amounts of rain and snow this winter and into the early spring.

The last time Pine and

Strawberry residents witnessed an epic El Niño was in the winter of 1997-98.

My unofficial and very unscientific estimates (I used a tape measure to check snow depths) are that Pine and Strawberry received about nine inches of snow from the storms on Saturday and Monday.

El Niño refers to the warming of the central Pacific Ocean that can impact weather throughout the world.

Permits to expire

Those who have not yet collected their firewood need to scramble because Tonto National Forest fuelwood permits, which were first issued on April 1, expire Dec. 31.

No fuelwood cutting is allowed for the first three months of each year to protect the national forests during their most vulnerable time.

Library movies

Holiday Movie Madness heats up 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 23 at the Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library with the showing of “The Polar Express” and continues at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 30 with “Minions.”

Children should bring a pillow so as to be comfortable on the floor and refreshments will be served. Both movies will

be shown on the library’s new 50-inch state of the art television.

Help from Riff Raff

Applications for the Riff Raff Club’s annual scholarship must be submitted by Monday, Dec. 21.

Applications are available by calling 928-978-3019 or by writing to the Scholarship Committee at P.O. Box 1981, Pine, AZ 85544.

Applicants must be a former or current Pine-Strawberry residents currently enrolled in an accredited college or trade school.

Food Bank needs donations

The Pine Strawberry Food Bank distributed hundreds of dollars worth of food during the Thanksgiving holidays and is now gearing up for rapidly approaching Christmas Day. The bank has issued a plea for non-perishable food to distribute to those in need.

Turkeys, hams and food items can be left at the Ponderosa Market.

Those who would like to make a tax-deductible donation can mail checks to: Pine Strawberry Food Bank, P.O. Box 1534, Pine, AZ 85544.

Thought for the week

“There are no gains without pains.”

Sea Devil or Sea Eagle? – Part 3 Last week we left Captain Felix their “allies” on their way with good von Luckner attempting the seemingly wishes. impossible: Slipping his tall masted sailAnd now, at last, the question we ing ship through multiple rings of British have been waiting to ask: Was Captain ships blockading German seaFelix von Luckner a “Sea Devil” ports. His chances? Poor! After as American and British naval all, who would be crazy enough your turn officers termed him, or was he to try running a tight blockade a “Sea Angel” as many believed with a vessel whose three tall then and still believe today? masts were visible for miles?

Let’s see.

No one, the British men Why did the allied navies and officers of the Cruiser call von Luckner a “Sea Devil?”

Avenger apparently decided on Does the record of his ship as Christmas Day as they boarded a merchant raider have anything to do with it? Well, here the Seeadler just southwest of Tom Garrett it is: The Seeadler sailed only Iceland in the last line of the between 21 December 1916 and tight blockade. On board they met von Luckner and his crew, smiling 8 September 1917, a mere 8 months and speaking to them in broken English and 18 days. And yet it sailed both the but in perfect Norwegian as both vessels Atlantic and the Pacific and accounted for 16 scuttled merchant ships totaling rose and fell in rough seas.

What happened? The British sent 30,099 tons.

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However, even the story of the very first of those vessels will explain the difference in labeling between Sea Devil and Sea Angel. Less than 20 days after it cleared the British blockade, the Seeadler came upon a small steamer and requested a time signal from her, something not uncommon for a vessel to do in those days when out of sight of land.

While the radio operator of the Gladys Royle, a British merchant vessel, was busy responding, the Seeadler raised its German ensign and ordered her to heave to. It took three shots across her bow to convince the Gladys Royle they were serious, but they finally obeyed the order.

And then came the moment when Felix von Luckner stepped into the pages of history. In accordance with naval traditions, which by and large were no longer honored but which he felt honor-bound

to follow, he took the crew of the Gladys Royle off and quartered in special quarters, which had been installed in his ship.

Only then did he scuttle their ship.

To make a very long story short, in all of von Luckner’s encounters with enemy merchant ships only two lives were lost, both of them accidental, and one of them a German. In every case, von Luckner did his best to see to it that crews were safely transported to his ship, where they were comfortably housed, well fed, and treated with respect. And if he stopped a neutral ship and found no war material on it he sent it on its way.

Soon, von Luckner had the problem of feeding and caring for nearly 300 prisoners. He solved his problem in an amazing way. He stopped a French sailing ship, had some of its sails and spars removed so it would sail slowly — thereby giving himself time to get elsewhere — put his

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prisoners aboard, and sent them on their way home.

The Sea Eagle was never captured or sunk. It was accidentally wrecked on a South Pacific island, where von Luckner, his crew, and his prisoners threw a happy party together after they came ashore. After WWI von Luckner traveled the U.S. and lectured to large, friendly audiences. Rejecting attempts

by Hitler to use him for propaganda purposes, he married, wrote a book, moved to Sweden, appeared on the popular American TV show “This is Your Life” in November 1959, and died at Malmo, Sweden in 1966, age 84.

Well, how about it?

Sea Devil or Sea Angel?

Here’s how I feel about it, Johnny.

Von Luckner’s ship was named the Sea Eagle. That worldwide symbol of pride and honor seems to say it all.

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

4B

C L U B S Tai Chi and Qigong

Tai Chi and Qigong classes are offered at 9 a.m. Saturdays at Rim Country Health, 807 W. Longhorn Rd., Payson.

The program is especially de­ signed for seniors 50 or older, but is beneficial for all ages. There is no charge. For details, call (928) 478-6032.

Archaeology group

The next meeting of the local chap­ ter of the Arizona Archaeological Society is at 10 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 19.

The gathering will be held in the Fellowship Hall of the Church of the Holy Nativity, 1414 Easy St. The guest speaker is to be Miles Gilbert, Ph.D. His presentation is titled “Ice Age Man and Mammals.”

Miles, a forensic anthropologist, has worked with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Game and Fish Department.

A buffet lunch will follow the pre­ sentation. There is no admission fee although donations are welcome. All guests are invited to attend.

Payson Lioness Club

The Payson Lioness Club meets at 9 a.m. the third Saturday of the month at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260.

Sponsored by the Payson Lions Club, the Payson Lioness Club is part of the world’s largest service organi­ zation. Members enjoy activities, ser­ vice projects and events that benefit local charities. All interested persons are welcome to attend. You are never too young or young at heart to be a

Lioness. For more information, call Carol at (928) 978-4132.

Radio control car/truck enthusiasts wanted

If you are a r/c (radio control) car or truck enthusiast then you are invited to a get-together at 3 p.m. this and every Sunday at the Payson Multi Event Center, north side of the warm-up arena.

Being there will answer most questions, but if you have them, call (928) 978-2365.

Write Your Story

This is a group of people who want to get their life story written for their family. The group meets from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mondays at 215 N. Beeline Highway, the home of Banner High Country Seniors.

Members share a little of what they have written as an incentive to keep writing.

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous meets from 2 p.m. Mondays at Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, 507 W. Wade Lane, Payson.

There are no fees or dues. The only membership requirement is a desire to not compulsively overeat anymore.

Call the following members for more information: Denise, (928) 9783706; Mary Jo, (928) 978-4663; Ted, (928-) 951-3362; Alice at (602) 8280917 or (928) 478-4361.

TOPS in Pine

The TOPS 412 (Take off Pounds Sensibly) Pine group meets

a n d

OR G ANI Z ATIONS

Tuesdays at the LDS chapel in Pine.

Weigh-in is at 7:50 a.m., the meeting is from 8:10 a.m. to 9 a.m.

All ages welcome. The group is for men and women looking for a support group and accountability in losing weight.

For more information, call Barbara at (928) 476-5955 or Charlotte at (928) 978-3640.

Senior Singles with Spirit The Senior Singles with Spirit group is composed of men and women who are young in spirit and have an enthusiasm for life. The purpose of this group is to build lasting friendships, share ideas, have fun, and enjoy activities with like-minded people. The choices are many and varied and all up to you.

Come check us out.

The group meets at 8:45 a.m. every Tuesday for breakfast at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260, Payson.

For more information, call Paula at (480) 695-2786.

Friendship Bible Class Friendship Bible Class, a non-de­ nominational Bible study for women, meets at 1 p.m. every Tuesday at Majestic Rim. All women in the com­ munity are invited. For information, call Marilyn at (928) 474-6712.

No bingo Dec. 25, Jan. 1 The weekly Friday afternoon Bingo at the The Center (formerly the Payson Senior Center), 514 W. Main, will not take place Friday, Dec. 25 or Friday, Jan. 1.

The regular game will resume Friday, Jan. 8, doors open at noon and games starting at 1 p.m.

In January, watch for “BINGO BONANZA” with new games and increased minimum payouts. These Friday bingo sessions are open to everyone in the community. You do not have to be a member of the Senior Center to enjoy the fun. All proceeds after payouts go to sup­ port Payson Helping Payson and the Senior Center.

write your story

Seniors can get discount gym membership Banner High Country Seniors offi­ cials would like to remind members that fees are due for their discounted membership at the Tonto Apache Gym. Sign up in the month of December for membership during the months of January, February and March 2016.

Dues are $55 for all three months and are payable at Banner High Country Seniors during the month of December only. The facility, at 215 N. Beeline Highway, is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Thursday and from 9 a.m. to noon, Friday.

Closed holidays.

Bridge results Winners at Ladies Tuesday Bridge for Dec. 15 were: Linda Rickard, first; Flo Moeur, second; Mary Kemp, third.

The group needs more players, so if you want to have some fun join the ladies at 12:30 p.m. every Tuesday at The Center (formerly the Payson Senior Center), 514 W. Main St. Area residents and guests are welcome.

Metro Creative Services photo

As you gather with family this holiday season start paying attention to the stories being told about childhoods and shared by older relatives no longer living. Learn how to put it together at a writers’ group at 1 p.m. Mondays at Banner High Country Seniors, 215 N. Beeline Hwy., Payson.

Please call Carol Blann at (928) 978-3881 for reservations and infor­ mation.

Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous is a fel­ lowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other to help others recover from alcoholism. For more information on local meetings, call (928) 474-3620.

Alanon/Alateen Alanon meets: Monday at 6 p.m., St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church, Payson; Wednesday at 1 p.m., Southern Baptist Church, Star Valley. For information call Kali at (503) 354-4402.

Alateen meets: Tuesday at 3:30 p.m., Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, Payson. For infor­ mation call Helen at (928) 978-6424.

Rim Country Church Directory Aglow International Crossroads Church, 114 E. Cedar Lane. The Aglow Bible Study is held each Tuesday at the Crossroads Fellowship Hall. Prayer and Praise 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.; Bible study 9:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. Call 474-6933 for more information.

cpcpayson.org.

Crossroads Foursquare Church We invite you to join us Sunday mornings, 10 a.m. Find us at www.crossroads4square.com, on Facebook or at 114 E. Cedar Lane, Payson.

Baha’i Faith Payson For location and information, call (928) 951-4404 or (928) 978-6519.

Desert Community Christian Fellowship, SB Pastor Eric Woods, (928) 479-2216, 173 Stephen’s Way, Tonto Basin.

Sunday School 9:15 a.m. Sunday services 10:45 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Wednesday worship 6 p.m.

Calvary Chapel Payson 1103 N. Beeline Hwy. at Sherwood Dr.; (928) 468-0801, office@ calvarypayson.com, calvarypayson.com. Sunday: Services at 8:30 & 10:30 a.m., Devotion & Prayer at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday: Men’s & Women’s Discipleship at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday: Fellowship Dinner at 5 p.m., Service at 6:30 p.m.; Thursday: Christ-Centered Recovery & Young Adult Fellowship at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is provided for all of the above services.

East Verde Baptist Church Houston Mesa Road at Whispering Pines Control Road, 474-9385.

Sunday Morning Bible Study, 9:15 a.m., Worship, 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday Evening Bible Study, 7 p.m.

Expedition Church 301 S. Colcord Road (two blocks west of Hwy. 87, just north of Bonita). Expedition is a non-denominational church whose mission is to “make disciples who love God and people.” Sunday services are at 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, go to www.discoverexpedition.com, Facebook at ExpeditionChurchPayson, or call (928) 474-9128. We look forward to having you join us on our journey!

Catholic Church of the Holy Nativity A Roman Catholic Church under the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter. 1414 N. Easy St.(corner of Easy Street & Bradley Dr.), Payson, AZ 85541, (928) 478-6988, wwwholynativitypayson. com. The Rev. Fr. Lowell E. Andrews, Pastor. Sunday: Mass 10 a.m.

Wednesday: Low Mass & Holy Unction 10 a.m. First Wednesday of the month: Benediction & Chaplet of Divine Mercy 5:30 p.m. followed by potluck supper. High Holy Days: Mass 10 a.m.

First Baptist Church (Independent/Fundamental) 303 W. Main St., 474-3530. Sunday School for all ages, 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. (nursery provided); Wednesday Prayer Meeting, 6:30 p.m.

Christopher Creek Bible Fellowship - I.F.C.A. Hwy. 260, Christopher Creek, first driveway past fire station on left.

Pastor Ed Hepworth, 478-4857 (church), 478-4310 (home). 10:30 a.m.

Worship Service and Children’s Sunday School (nursery provided).

Thursday Bible Study. For more information, call Pastor Ed.

First Baptist Church of Pine 4039 N. Highway 87, 476-3552, Website: www.fbcpine.com.

Sundays: Sunday School 9:15 a.m., Morning Worship Service 10:30 a.m., Evening Fellowship 6 p.m. Communion service the first Sunday during Morning Worship. Men’s Fellowship Breakfast 8 a.m. first Saturday of each month. Women’s Bible Study 9:15 Tuesday mornings. AWANA program on Mondays as follows: Sparks for K-2nd 2:30-4 p.m.; TNT, Trek and Journey 6-8 p.m. All other activities, please contact the church office Wednesday 10 a.m. to noon or Friday 9 a.m. to noon.

Church at Powell Place 806 W. Longhorn Rd. Payson, (928) 474-6249. Non-Denominational Sunday Services beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Church for the Nations Payson (CFTN Payson) meeting at 901 S. Westerly Road in the Chapel at Messinger’s. Sunday service 10 a.m. Pastors Nevin and Dina Hershberger invite you to come to join dynamic praise and worship with uplifting prophetic teaching. Contact Pastor Nevin at (602) 7573778 or Pastor Dina at (602) 757-3830. Like us on Facebook.

Forest Lakes Community Church A non-denominational church meeting in the school district/library building at 417 Old Rim Road in Forest Lakes.

Worship is Sundays at 10 a.m. All are welcome to join us in the pines!

Church of Christ 306 E. Aero. Sunday Bible classes 10 a.m., Worship 11 a.m. For Bible studies any day of the week, call Bob Nichols, 468-0134. By understanding and living the principles taught in the New Testament, we attempt to accomplish the spiritual mission of the church, rather than being a social or recreational institution.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints MOGOLLON WARD: Aero Drive and 913 S. Ponderosa; Sunday Services 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Sacrament Meeting 9 a.m., 474-6367, 4688157, Missionaries (928) 863-5396, 468-8886.

MANZANITA WARD: Aero Drive and 913 S. Ponderosa; Sunday Services 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.; Sacrament Meeting 11 a.m., 474-3788, 472-2266, Missionaries (928) 863-5396, 468-8886.

PONDEROSA WARD: Aero Drive and 913 S. Ponderosa; Sunday Services 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sacrament Meeting 1 p.m., 472-8709, 474-6367 or 468-1103, Missionaries 472-7956.

FAMILY HISTORY CENTER: Aero Drive and 913 S. Ponderosa, 4680249; Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and by appointment: V. Green (928) 474-4181.

PINE WARD: Highway 87; Sunday Services 9 a.m. to noon; Sacrament meeting 9 a.m. (928) 476-3118. Missionaries at (928) 600-7546.

TONTO BASIN SERVICES: Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sacrament meeting 10 a.m. 479-2484.

CHRISTOPHER CREEK SERVICES: Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Sacrament meeting 10 a.m. followed by Sunday School, Priesthood and Relief Society. 478-4608.

SPANISH BRANCH: Aero Drive and 913 S. Ponderosa; Sunday Services 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sacrament meeting 9 a.m.

YOUNG BRANCH: Sunday 9:30 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society; 10:30 a.m. Sunday School; 11:20 a.m. Sacrament meeting. 462-3326 or 4623388.

BLUE RIDGE BRANCH: Sunday 10 a.m. Sacrament meeting; 10:50 a.m. Sunday School; 11:25 a.m. Priesthood/Relief Society. (928) 4772138.

Church on Randall Place, SBC (in Pine) Pastor John Lake. All are welcome! 6338 W. Randall Place (turn west on Randall Place road near the Thrift Store) Sunday Morning Prayer: 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., Sunday Adult Bible Enrichment 8:45 a.m. to 9:40 a.m., Sunday Worship Celebration: 10 a.m. Sunday Communion 2nd Sunday of the month. Sunday Fellowship Meal every 3rd Sunday of the month. Women of CORP Ministries and Bible studies led by Simone Lake. Other various Connection Groups available throughout week. Pastor John Lake invites all Pine-Strawberry residents to attend

Gisela Community Church Tatum Trail, Gisela; Pastor Ted Tatum. Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m., Wednesday Bible Study 6 p.m.

Iglesia La Roca 302 E. Rancho Rd. Nuestro proposito es que usted encuentre una relacion personal con Dios y pueda experimentar la hermosura de su presencia en cada uno de nuestros servicios: Miercoles 6:30pm Ensayo del Ministerio de Alabanza, Jueves 6:30pm Estudios Biblicos, Domingos 12:30 Tiempo de Celebracion y Adoracion, para mayor informacion comunicarse con los Pastores Carmelo y Ruth Andujar.

Dr. Carmelo Andujar, Pastor (928) 238-0240, Ruth Andujar (407) 341-9775, Secretaria de La Roca (928) 595-0874. Te invitamos a vistitar nuestra pagina web: www.iglesialarocapayson.com.

“Visitenos, Sera un placer tenerles en nuestra Iglesia” Mount Cross Lutheran Church (ELCA) 601 E. Highway 260 (across from Tiny’s Restaurant), 474-2552. Ken Lentz, Interim Pastor. Sunday Worship Schedule: 8:30 a.m. Traditional Service; 10:30 a.m. Praise Service. Holy Communion is celebrated on the 1st & 3rd Sundays of each month. Visit our website atwww. mountcross.org. Church office hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mount Cross is a warm, loving church community that extends itself to others and welcomes everyone with joy. a Christmas Eve Service at 6 p.m. Dec. 24. All are welcome for this special celebration. For more information, contact: 1-928-476-4249 (ch), 1-928-472-6439 (pastor’s hm) 1-928-970-4249 (pastor’s cell), Email: pinerandallchurch@hotmail.com Website: http://churchonrandallplace.org Online Sermons: www.sermon.net/CORP Community Christian Church An independent, undenominational fellowship. Meets every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. in the chapel at Majestic Rim Retirement Living, 310 E. Tyler Parkway. Open Communion served every Sunday.

Community Presbyterian Church 800 W. Main Street, Rev. Charles Proudfoot, Pastor. Sundays: SON Risers Adult Bible Class at 8:30 a.m.; Hymn Sing at 10:15 a.m. followed by Morning Worship at 10:30 a.m. Bible Time and nursery care for children provided. Office hours are weekdays 9 a.m. to noon; 474-2059 office, 474-0624 fax, E-mail: cpcgen@yahoo.com, Website:

Mountain Bible Church Our Mission at Mountain Bible is quite simple: Loving God…Loving People. It is our desire before God to develop and offer ministries, inside and outside our church, that further this important cause. Are we succeeding? We invite you to be our guest this weekend and see for yourself! Located at 302 E. Rancho Road in Payson, we offer two opportunities to worship on Sunday mornings: 8:45 and 10:30 a.m. Many children and student ministries are available on Sundays and throughout the week. More details are available through our office (928) 472-7800 and on our website (www.mountainbible.org).

Please let us answer any further questions you may have about our church…and we hope to meet you soon!

New Life Foundation Hwy. 87 (next to Windmill Corner Inn), Strawberry, 476-3224.

Services: Wednesday, 7 p.m.; Saturday & Sunday, 9 a.m.

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

5B

Some things to consider before adopting a pet by

Chandra Cushman

humane society of central arizona

Next week is our Empty the Shelter adoption event. During these three days, we are hopeful to find every adoptable dog and cat in our care their forever home. Yes, these are high expectations, but we believe in shooting for the stars!

We also want to make sure that every adoption is Humane Society a good fit. Here of Central Arizona are some things to consider before coming down ADOPTION to the adoption OPTIONS event.

1. When you adopt, you need to make a real commitment to care for your pet for its entire life, no matter what that entails, just as you would with a child.

2. Be prepared for a pet to affect other parts of your life for as long as you have the pet (15+ years). Your pet’s well-being should be considered when making all kinds of decisions, including travel, social life, relocating to a new home, adopting other pets, adding new family members, etc.

3. Verify in advance that you’re allowed to keep a pet where you live, especially if you rent or belong to a homeowners’ association. Many property managers have restrictions on the breed of dog or the size and number of pets allowed. Verifying what is allowed first will make it easier to choose an appropriate companion.

4. Make any necessary modifications

to your yard and fence, if you have one, to provide for your pet’s safety and to prevent your pet from escaping.

5. Choosing a pet is a personal decision. What may seem like the perfect companion to one person might be completely unacceptable to another. Don’t give a pet as a gift. If you want to help someone get a new pet, consider giving them a ride to the shelter or helping them with adoption fees.

6. Choose a pet that is appropriate to your living situation and lifestyle.

Figure out what size, age, and energy-level pet is most appropriate for you.

7. It can be tempting to walk through the shelter and see so many cute faces looking for new homes. But you should never adopt a pet on a whim or because you feel it’s love-at-first-sight. Do your research and carefully consider all the aspects and implications of adopting before you make a decision.

8. If you’re adopting a pet for your kids, understand that the responsibility is yours. Kids, by their nature, often tire of things that were once new and exciting, and this includes their pets.

You will most likely end up being the one who provides most of the pet’s care.

9. Plan for a several-week adjustment period during which there will be challenges. A new pet will take some time to get comfortable in the home, and might need some time to get used to the new routine. And don’t forget that people in the home will need to adjust to a new routine, too!

10. Have a plan to provide sufficient exercise and stimulation — walk dogs according to individual need, provide playtime and appropriate toys for both

Baby Girl

dogs and cats, spend time just petting and talking to your pet, and include the pet in family activities.

11. Bring all family members with you to meet the animal you are interested in. It’s really important for everyone in the home to be on the same page when it comes to adding a new companion.

So now that you’ve thought about all the necessary things regarding adoption, we welcome you to come participate in the adoption event Dec. 21 through Dec. 23 if you are ready to adopt!

The Humane Society of Central Arizona shelter is located at 605 W. Wilson Ct. (just south of Main Street off South McLane Road); hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3

Froggy

p.m., closed Sundays and holidays. For more information, call (928) 474-5590 or visit www.humanesocietycentralaz.org.

Following are just two of the wonderful pets currently available for adoption.

BABY GIRL

I am a big girl! But that just means there is more of me to love. I have a great personality, and absolutely love everyone that gives me attention. I do get along with other animals, I am quite the friend! So don’t let my size fool you.

I’m pretty confident I would be a great companion for you!

FROGGY

I am an affectionate girl who prefers quiet cuddles to fast action! I enjoy my people time immensely! I’d love to climb

in your lap, press my head against your chest, and get a nice scratch on my neck. You can usually find me following someone (anyone!) around at the shelter, waiting for their lap to become available! Just because I am such a cuddler doesn’t mean I don’t like to get out a bit. A long, slow walk in the park is just my speed. But don’t let me chase the ducks! Yes, I am a chaser. Small dogs, cats, birds — basically anything smaller than me. I don’t generally go out of my way, but if the opportunity presents itself... I can be a little picky with the big dogs, too. My tolerance is improving, and I might be able to go home with the right dog — as long as it’s bigger than me! But honestly, I would prefer to be your one and only. I have plenty of love to give!

Rim Country Church Directory Payson First Church of the Nazarene Come join us for a time of fellowship and worship as we praise the Lord! 200 E. Tyler Parkway (928) 474-5890. Sundays: Morning Worship Service 9:30 am; Sunday School for all ages 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Monday- Friday: Safe Haven Childcare Center 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Lighthouse Club 2:30-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays: Prayer and Praise 6 p.m.; Wednesdays: Women’s Bible Study 1-2 p.m.; Children’s Quizzing 3-6th grades 1:30-4:30 p.m.; Thursdays: Youth Night 6:30 p.m.; Last Saturday of each month: Men’s Fellowship Breakfast 8 a.m.; Senior Activities each month. For more information on locations, times and topics contact the church office. Office hours: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1-4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

“No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, there is a place for you at St. Paul’s.”

Payson Living Word Bible Church 208 S. McLane Road (across from the High School). Services Sundays starting at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. with Kids Church and nursery provided. PLW is a Spirit Filled Contemporary Church based on Faith; we believe speaking the Word of God will move mountains in our lives.

We have a mission here at PLWBC: Love, Win, Build and Change.

There are many activities at the church so come out and be a part of our family. The Lord is doing great things. If you have any questions, the church number is (928) 474-8606.

Payson United Methodist Church 414 N. Easy Street (between Zurich St. and Malibu St., behind ACE Hardware), 474-0485; Pastor Carl Peterson. A growing, multi-generational faith community where our hearts, minds, and doors are open to all people. We invite you to worship with us Sunday at 8:30 a.m.

(Contemporary) or at 11 a.m. (Traditional). Kid’s Church along with free and safe nursery care is provided. Please call the church for information on additional programs, ministries and our mission to the community.

Payson United Pentecostal Church - The First Church Meet at Mesa del Caballo Clubhouse (8119 E. Mescalero). Kids’ Church at 1 p.m. and Worship & Word Service at 2:30 p.m. each Sunday. Family Bible Study at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. We are a Book of Acts church, preaching the original salvation message first preached to the church on the Day of Pentecost. We baptize in Jesus’ Name for the remission of sins and rejoice in the experience of the gift of the Holy Ghost. All are welcome to join us in worshipping Jesus in Spirit and in Truth. Pastor Dale Lewallen (928) 474-2455.

Website: www.paysonupc.com Pleasant Valley Community Church Young Public School Cafeteria on Hwy 288 & Baker Ranch Road. A non-denominational service every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. Come early for refreshments and fellowship.

Ponderosa Bible Church 1800 N. Beeline Hwy., (928) 474-9279. “Preparing God’s people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up.” Dr. Joe Falkner, Sr. Pastor; Curtis Fahrlender, Pastor of Student Ministries; Allen Mann, Part-time Associate Pastor. Sunday: Traditional Worship Service 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.; Contemporary Service 11 a.m. to 12 noon; Youth Bible Study (Grades 7-12) 9:30 a.m.; BLAST I (Bible Learning And Sharing Together) Grades K-6 9:30 a.m.; BLAST II, Grades K-4, 11 a.m.; Adult Bible Study 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.; Student Ministries (grades 7-12) 6-7:30 p.m. Nursery and Pre-Primary available for morning worship services. Wednesday: Legacy Singles (55+ years of age) coffee at 9 a.m., please call 474-9279 as locations vary. Adult Prayer and Bible Study 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Nursery available. Thursday: Men’s Bible Study 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. (in recess for the summer); Payson Women’s Bible Study 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. (in recess for the summer). Pioneer Clubs (Grades 1-5), 2:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays when school is in session.

Visit our website www.pbcpayson.org.

Rim Country Cowboy Church The Rim Country Cowboy Church is now meeting at the Payson Living Word Bible Church, 202 S. McLane Rd. (across the street from the High School), Wed. at 6 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call Bob Neff (307) 254-5533.

Rock of Ages Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELS) At Rock of Ages you will find a worship service designed to praise God and enrich faith. Our purpose is to serve all people in God’s world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ on the basis of the Holy Bible. We are a friendly, family oriented church. All are welcome! Rock of Ages Lutheran Church is located at 204 W. Airport Road (corner of Airport Rd and North McLane). Pastor David Sweet, (928) 970-7606 or (928) 474-2098. Sunday Worship Service is at 9 a.m.; Sunday School and Adult Bible Class at 10:15 a.m.; Holy communion is celebrated at the 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Adult Bible class is held on Tuesdays at 1 p.m., Thursdays at 9 a.m. and Saturdays at 9 a.m.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church WE Welcome Everyone. 1000 N. Easy St. (Corner of Sherwood & Easy St.). 928-474-3834. The Rev. Daniel F. Tantimonaco, Rector.

St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church 511 S. St. Phillips Street, 474-2392. Daily Masses Monday-Friday 8 a.m, Sat. 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., Spanish 12:30 p.m.; Confession at 2 to 3 p.m. Saturday. Call Mrs. Catherine Trudell, Religious Education office, (928) 474-1269 for Catholic education classes and programs for children and adults.

Seventh-day Adventist Church 700 E. Wade Lane, Payson; Pastor Steven Salsberry; Elder Sharon Judd. Saturday services: Sabbath School/Bible Study 9:30a.m.; Worship Hour 11 a.m. We welcome all visitors. Come and join us for uplifting fellowship. Call 928-474-9209 for Prayer Meeting times and location, and for coming local events, or visit our website: http:// payson.adventistfaith.org.

Shepherd of the Pines Ev. Lutheran Church (LC-MS) 507 W. Wade Lane; (928) 474-5440, Pastor: Steve DeSanto. Sunday: Adult Bible Study 8:30 a.m., Sunday School, 8:30 a.m., Worship Service 10 a.m. Holy Communion celebrated on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month.

Adult Bible Study, Monday evenings 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursdays 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A community breakfast is hosted on the second Friday of every month at 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Visit Shepherd of the Pines on our website: www.shepherdofthepineslutheran.com.

1000 N. Easy Street, Payson • 474-3834

Christmas Eve Services 7pm and 10:30pm Thursday, Dec. 24th

Regular Service Times

Service of Healing & Holy Eucharist 9am Wednesday Sunday Morning Holy Eucharist 8am and 10am Fr. Dan Tantimonaco, Rector

Shepherd of the Pines United Methodist Church - Overgaard 3015 Highway 277, Overgaard, (928) 535-5208. Pastor Noni Dye. Worship service 9 a.m. w/childcare. Adult Sunday School 7:30 a.m.

Children’s Sunday School 9 a.m.

Shiloh Christian Fellowship 501 E. Rancho Road (across the street from Payson Elementary School), 474-3138. Non-denominational church teaching verse by verse and chapter by chapter through the Bible. Contemporary Worship and family oriented, children’s ministries and nursery provided.

Sunday Worship Service at 10:45 a.m. Bible Study on Thursday at 6:30 p.m.

Star Valley Baptist Church 4180 E. Highway 260, 4 miles east of Payson (928) 474-5557. Sunday Bible Study at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Worship Service at 10:50 a.m. Wednesday Night offers children’s ministries from 5-7 p.m.

ARMOR for boys 1st-6th grade and GO for girls 1st-6th grade. All are welcome!

Strawberry Chapel in the Pines Fossil Creek Road, Strawberry, 476-3893. Sunday School 9 a.m., Worship 10 a.m., Wed. Bible study 7 p.m.

Tonto Basin Bible Church Hwy. 188 off Dryer Dr., Tonto Basin, Pastor Robert Melotti, (928) 4792299.

Sunday School for all ages 9:30 a.m., worship service 10:45 a.m., Children’s Church 10:45 a.m., no Sunday eve. service. Wednesday Night Bible Study Fellowship 7 p.m. Potluck every third Sunday at noon following the worship service.

Tonto Creek Shores/Tonto Valley Bible Church Lots 240-241 Valley View Road, Gisela, 474-1360. Valley View Drive, Gisela; Pastor Ted Tatum. Sunday School 9:30 a.m., Sunday Morning Worship 11 a.m., Sunday Evening Service 6 p.m. (combined service with both churches).

St. Paul’s parishioners and Father Dan invite you to join us as WE participate in worship, Christian education, outreach and fellowship activities. Sunday: Holy Eucharist Services are at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m.

The 10 a.m. service includes traditional and contemporary music.

Child care is provided. Our Praise Band leads us with contemporary music on the last Sunday of the month. Christian Education programs offer Children’s Sunday School at 10 a.m. and Sunday Adult Group Study at 9 a.m. Wednesday: We celebrate the Service of Healing & Holy Eucharist at 9 a.m. Quarterly: Taizé, a Service of contemplation and music, is held quarterly on a Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m. (Call for dates). We have very active Women’s, Men’s and Bible Study groups. A Film Review group and Book Club are just some of our other regular programs. (Call Church for dates and times). Visit our Website: www.stpaulspayson.org. Email: stpaulspayson@gmail.com WE Welcome Everyone.

Tonto Village Chapel Tonto Village Chapel exists to serve, love and uplift the Lord Jesus Christ. Our mission is to operate in the community as a light House through fulfilling the great commission as found in Matthew 28:1820. We welcome an opportunity to worship with you on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. with Sunday school/Bible study at 10:45 a.m. for adults, children and youth, or Tuesday evening Bible study and prayer meeting at 5 p.m. For questions or information please call the Church at (928) 478-5076.

Unity Church of Payson Spiritual leader Dr. Lynnette Brouwer, Licensed Unity Teacher. Our mission is to inspire and awaken one another to a greater experience of God and life through the practical application of spiritual principles. Sunday services at 10 a.m., 600 E. Highway 260, #14 (Board of Realtors Conference Room, back of Tiny’s parking lot). The 1st Sunday of each month is our inter-generational service and we celebrate birthdays and bring non-perishables for the foodbank. The 2nd Sunday browse the Unity of Payson library, 3rd Sunday pot luck, 4th Sunday power prayer follows service, 4th Tuesday Chili’s giveback day, 4th Friday 4 p.m. hiway cleanup, on-going noon Faithlift 1st and 3rd Wed. To find out more:www.unityofpayson.org. 928478-8515.

Payson Roundup Tuesday, December 15, 2015

6B

Choose your favorites in the 2016

BEST OF THE RIM

PPAYSON Roundup OUNDUPReaders’ Poll ayson R Fill out this ballot or vote online at payson.com. (See rules at bottom of page.)

Winners will be announced Feb. 15 at the Best of the Rim gala presented by:

PAYSON ROUNDUP

&

Watch for the winners in the Feb. 26 edition of the Payson Roundup.

Best Business Person:

Best Business:

SHOPPING & SERVICES (List business name only.)

Best Customer Service (Business):

Best (Medical) Assisted Living Facility/Home:

Best Bachelor:

Best Bachelorette:

Best Sandwich:

_______________________________________________ Best (Medical) Long-Term Care Facility:

_______________________________________________ Best Steak Dinner:

_______________________________________________ Best Art Gallery:

_______________________________________________ Best Nonprofit Organization:

_______________________________________________ Best Wings:

_______________________________________________ Best ATV/Motorcycle Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Paint Store:

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________ Best Auto Parts Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Painter (house & commercial):

_______________________________________________ Best Automotive Repair Shop:

_______________________________________________ Best Pet Groomer:

_______________________________________________ Best Bank or Credit Union:

_______________________________________________ Best Pet & Feed Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Beauty & Nail Salon:

_______________________________________________ Best Pharmacy:

_______________________________________________ Best Bike/Cyclery Shop:

_______________________________________________ Best Plumbing Service:

_______________________________________________ Best Car Dealer:

_______________________________________________ Best Sporting Goods:

_______________________________________________ Best Cell Phone Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Roofing Company:

_______________________________________________ Best Cleaning (House & Commercial) Service:

_______________________________________________ Best Thrift Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Clothing Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Tire Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Computer Repair Service:

_______________________________________________

_______________________________________________ Best Eye Doctor/Optometrist:

_______________________________________________ Best Department Store:

FOOD & DRINK

_______________________________________________ Best Financial Advisor:

Best Antique & Collectible Store:

_______________________________________________ Best Electrical Company: _______________________________________________ Best Furniture Store: _______________________________________________ Best Gas/Convenience Store: _______________________________________________ Best Gift Shop: _______________________________________________ Best Grocery Store: _______________________________________________ Best Hardware Store: _______________________________________________ Best Health & Fitness Club: _______________________________________________ Best Health Food/Vitamin Store: _______________________________________________ Best Home Improvement Contractor: _______________________________________________ Best Home TV/Electronics: _______________________________________________ Best Hotel/Motel/Cabins/B&B: _______________________________________________ Best Jewelry Store: _______________________________________________ Best Landscaping & Tree Service: _______________________________________________ Best Liquor Store: _______________________________________________ Best Meat Retailer: _______________________________________________

(Business name only)

Best Bakery:

PEOPLE

(First & Last Name & Business Name)

Best Accountant: _______________________________________________ Best Attorney: _______________________________________________ Best Barber: _______________________________________________ Best Bartender: _______________________________________________ Best Beautician: _______________________________________________ Best Chiropractor: _______________________________________________ Best Dentist: _______________________________________________ Best Doctor:

_______________________________________________ Best Firefighter:

_______________________________________________ Best Bar, Tavern, Saloon:

_______________________________________________ Best Insurance Agent:

_______________________________________________ Best Breakfast Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Law Enforcement Officer:

_______________________________________________ Best Cup of Coffee:

_______________________________________________ Best Local Music Band:

_______________________________________________ Best Dinner Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Best Massage Therapist:

_______________________________________________ Best Family Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Best Nail Technician:

_______________________________________________ Best Fast Food:

_______________________________________________ Best Nurse/Nurse Practitioner:

_______________________________________________ Best Fine Dining:

_______________________________________________ Best Photographer:

_______________________________________________ Best Fish Fry:

_______________________________________________ Best Realtor:

_______________________________________________ Best Hamburger:

_______________________________________________ Best Teacher:

_______________________________________________ Best Happy Hour:

_______________________________________________ Best Town Councilor - Payson:

_______________________________________________ Best Lunch Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Best Town Councilor - Star Valley:

_______________________________________________ Best Mexican Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Best Veterinarian:

_ ­ ______________________________________________ Best Italian & Pizza Restaurant:

_______________________________________________ Best Waitress/Waiter:

_ ­ ______________________________________________ Best Ribs:

_______________________________________________

_ ­ ______________________________________________

RULES: This poll is intended to be an honest representation of our readers’ favorites. Please observe these rules that will help promote fair play and accuracy. Please fill out this ballot and return the entire page to the Payson Roundup office at 708 N. Beeline Highway, or mail to P.O. Box 2520, Payson, AZ 85547, or cast your votes online at payson.com by 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 15. Ballots should not be distributed by businesses, employees or friends to solicit votes. Ballots must be at least 50% completed, and only two ballots per household will be accepted. Only original newsprint ballots will be counted. No photocopies or other reproductions will qualify. Ballots must contain local, verifiable name and address information. Roundup employees and their families are not eligible.

Your Name: ______________________________ Phone: ______________________

q Roundup Subscriber

Address: _____________________________________________________________

q Newsstand Purchase

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

7B

60 years celebrated

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays Contributed photos

Dick and Dora Lee Connolly celebrated 60 years of marriage Thursday, Dec. 10, 2015. The couple married in the Baptist Church on West Main Street and held their reception at the Ox Bow. Doralee Anderson Connolly was named Payson’s first rodeo queen in 1954. Dick Connolly’s family built a grocery store across from the Payson Woman’s Club on West Main, later including a Western Auto on the premises. The couple still makes their home in Payson, living near Payson Elementary School. The Connollys’ 60th anniversary was celebrated by their family on Nov. 28 at the Lamplighter Park community room when everyone was in town for Thanksgiving. They have two daughters, Devon Wells, who resides in Payson and Kim Hamlett, who makes her home elsewhere; three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

From All of Us at Gila County

military news

biggs

Contributed photo

Kenna Hailee Biggs was born Nov. 18, 2015 at Mercy Gilbert Medical Center in Gilbert, Ariz. At 5 pounds, 10 ounces, 18 inches long, she is the first child of Brian Kenneth and Jennifer Lee (LaForge) Biggs, who make their home in Chandler, Ariz.

The baby girl was welcomed by maternal grandparents Earl and Kathy LaForge of Payson and maternal great-grandparents George and Suzie Morris of Star Valley. Her paternal grandparent, Kenneth Donald Biggs is deceased.

Lt. Col. Devon NuDelman has been appointed to command the Korean Service Corps. The KSC is the largest Battalion in the Army. It had its beginnings in 1950 at the start of the Korean War. Col. NuDelman resides in Seoul, Korea and his parents Gary and Jackie NuDelman reside in Payson, Ariz.

Assessor Deborah Hughes

Community holiday fun continues A number of special events — mostly at the Payson and Pine libraries — continue through next week, with some things planned for the final week of 2015 as well.

Holiday music At the library

Once again the Payson Public Library is presenting a series of holiday music programs and all will feature refreshments.

The programs continue through Thursday, Dec. 24. Christmas week will see Cinnamon Twist perform from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday, Dec. 21; pianist Phyllis Papineau is the guest from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22; and Jim West and Kathleen Kelly perform from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 24.

The library is at 328 N. McLane Rd., Payson.

Special holiday concert

The public is invited to a special presentation of the Christmas choruses and solos from Handel’s Messiah by 20 volunteer singers from the community. Some children will be taking part in solos, readings, ringing bells and a nativity scene. This concert will be held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 700 E. Wade Lane, Payson at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 19 during the church’s worship hour. Admission is free.

Those interested may call Angeline at 928-9514853 for more information.

Christmas cantata

Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church is presenting a Christmas cantata, “Sing Noel” at 10 a.m., Sunday, Dec. 20. The public is invited to attend. Shepherd of the Pines is at 507 W. Wade Lane, Payson.

Holiday fun at area libraries All-aboard for ‘The Polar Express’

“The Polar Express” makes a stop at the Payson Public Library at 3:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 18.

The “conductors-in-training” at the library suggest youngsters read the book first and then come to the library, 328 N. McLane Rd., Payson, with a pillow to enjoy the movie.

The Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library, 6124 N. Randall Place, Pine, will show the film as part of its Movie Madness program at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 23.

Attorney Brad Beauchamp

More movies at the libraries

Payson Public Library plans movies at 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 23; Tuesday, Dec. 29; and Wednesday, Dec. 30.

The movie Dec. 23 is “The Miracle on 34th Street” one of the classic Christmas movies; the Dec. 29 movie is “Home” which is an animated feature; and on Dec. 30, the library is showing “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale” based on a true story.

Movie Madness at Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library in Pine continues with “Minions” at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 30.

Constable Jess Bolinger

Teddy bear sleepover

Constable Colt White

Judge Dorothy Little

School Superintendent Linda O’Dell Treasurer Debi Savage

Recorder Sadie Bingham

Once again the Payson Public Library staff is inviting its young patrons to bring their teddy bears to a sleepover at the library. First there is story time at 4 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 22, then the bears settle in for the night.

Participants will get a letter describing their bear’s adventures when they pick it up the next day.

Build a snowman

The Payson Public Library will have a “Build a Snowman at the Library” program at 3 p.m., Monday, Dec. 28. Register now at the circulation desk. The program is for those 3 and older. Call 928-474-9260 for more information.

Supervisor John Marcanti

Sheriff Adam Shepherd

Supervisor Tommie Martin Supervisor Michael Pastor

Read a book, draw a picture

The Payson Public Library is inviting its young patrons to read a book and draw a picture about the book to win a gift certificate for a free Subway Fresh Fit Meal for Kids.

The event is part of the library’s ongoing program, Reading Matters.

Constable Ruben Mancha

Judge Bryan Chambers

Clerk of the Court Anita Escobedo

Judge Tim Wright

PAYSON ROUNDUP FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2015

8B

Classifieds More ways than ever to publish and pay for your classified ad!

Call 928-474-5251 • Online at PaysonClassifiedsNow.com • Email ClassAds@payson.com DEADLINES: 10AM Monday for Tuesday issue • 10AM Wednesday for Friday issue GENERAL RANCH WORKER

One temporary position opening. Dates of need: 01/25/2016 to 11/15/2016. $11.37 per hour + housing . A signed contract may be required. 3/4 time guarantee. Work tools, supplies and equipment will be provided at no cost to the worker. Transportation & subsistence expenses to worksite provided by employer or paid by employer upon completion of 50% of the work contract. Must be able to ride & drive horses. Must have 3 months experience and provide (1) reference from previous employer with knowledge of applicants skills. Must be able to lift 50 pounds. Attend to livestock—feeds and waters livestock by tractor and/or team on range or at ranch headquarters—calving, maintaining cattle herd health. Builds & cleans corrals. Wean calves, vaccinations and pregnancy check cows. Herds livestock to pasture for grazing. Assist with castration of livestock, and identification marking. Maintain all fences, corrals, cabins, buildings, range improvements, and livestock equipment used for proper cattle management. Cleans livestock stalls and sheds, using disinfectant solutions, brushes and shovels. Must have knowledge of building and repair of fence, irrigation knowledge and management, planting, cultivating and harvesting hay for livestock. Light Mechanical skills preferred. Maintain ranch buildings. Maintain equipment in a working condition and observe safe practices. Assist with the shipping of cows and calves.

Longer hours (night shifts during calving) and more days (up to 7 days per week) may be required when feeding cows supplemental rations, calving season, irrigation and haying season. Workers must be willing and able to perform all duties according to the employer’s requirements during the contract period. Workers will be expected to work in conditions normally associated with Colorado climatic conditions, which may include, at times, dusty conditions, wind, etc. Temperatures in early spring and late fall are cool; winters very cold (-30 degrees F.) temperatures during working hours in the summer can reach a high of 100 degrees F.

Order: 10079154 Cust: -High Country Agricultural Serv Keywords: Belton Ranch art#: 20131387 Class: General Size: 2.00 X 2.00

BELTON RANCH / ROUTT COUNTY, COLORADO Call Craig Workforce Center, (970) 824-3246 or contact your nearest State Workforce Center.

Refer to order #CO6354392

Order: 10078758 Cust: -Town of Payson / HR Keywords: Classified-PO#201043------Recruitment Ad art#: 20130870 Town of Payson Class: General Size:Police/Fire/911 2.00 X 2.00 Dispatcher Trainee starting

MERCHANDISE ANIMALS

ADMINISTRATIVE/ PROFESSIONAL

Dachshund Pups; 10 wks old, 1 male, 1 famale, Black and Tan, Smooth hair, and one that’s only 3 wks old, $400. Call 928-476-6435 or 480-734-7246 Dog Nail Clipping in the comfort and convenience of your home by Tracy. Local professional groomer of 24 years. $12.00 928-978-4959

Customer Service Rep. Wanted, AP/AR, Customer Service a Must, Honest, Dependable, M-F 8-5, Fax Resume: 928-468-6290 2012 Nissan Juke Moonroof up to 32MPG only $14,495.

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79119

20 inch Girls Bike (Brand New), $40. Call 951-757-6605

Journeyman Plumber

FIREWOOD FIREWOOD “BEST PRICES IN TOWN AND FRIENDLY SERVICE” Also BACKHOE SERVICE & YARD CLEANING Tree-Trimming, Brush Removal with Hauling Service

2013 Dodge Durango Leather 3rd row seat and only 34k miles! Priced right at $24,645.

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79118

HEALTH CARE HIRING: Part Time Experienced RN w/IV Skills,Salary D.O.E, Send Resume & References Required: Internal Medicine Clinic, PO Box 1463, Payson, 85547

Residential and Commercial Plumber. Top pay for top journeyman plumber must be able to work out of town Pay will be based on experience please email resume to arizonacommercial@hotmail.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE

Join Southwest Behavioral & Health Services as we celebrate 40 years of helping people feel better. Our outpatient and residential sites in Payson have full-time and PRN opportunities for the following: BHPP - HS/GED or AA degree w/6 wks. exp.

BHT - BA degree (related) +1 yr. exp.; equiv. comb of Edu/Exp. of 5 yrs. acceptable Apply today at: www.sbhservices.org Email to: ricardoa@sbhservices.org Or call: 602-351-6914 Drug screen required. EOE

Program Coordinator:

Police Officer Recruit $18.07 - $27.11/hr or Certified Police Officer $19.95 - 29.93/hr, depending upon qualifications, plus benefits. Obtain required application by calling (928) 474-5242 x5012; pick one up at Town Hall; or download at www.paysonaz.gov. Human Resources, 303 N Beeline Hwy, Payson, AZ 85541, must receive applications no later than 4PM MST, 01/14/16. EOE

NOW HIRING CNA’S, RN’S & LPN’S

Order: 10078622 Cust: -Payson Care Center Keywords: Ad attached art#: 20130631 Class: Healthcare Size: 2.00 X 3.00

Full-time, Part-time & PRN Positions Available.

Competitive wages and benefits. $1,000 sign-on bonus for full-time positions.

Apply in person at:

FIREWOOD Firewise, Lot Clean-ups Landscaping Juniper-$250.cord Oak-$300.cord Half Cords and Mixes Available!

Ray Smith 928-970-0132 or 928-363-1014 FIREWOOD. JUNIPER OR PINE AND MIXES SOLD IN BUNDLES TO FULL MEASURED CORDS, WE DELIVER.ALSO TREE STUMP AND SMALL TREE REMOVAL. TRENCHING. 928-468-1309

FURNITURE Futon Steel frame futon convertible to queen size bed. 78 inches wide in sitting position. Mattress approx 8” deep. Beige zippered mattress cover included. $Free If you pick up. Call 602-432-6278 only if serious interest.

Envirofire Pellet Stove, Bought at Ace Hardware, Works Wonderful, All Accessories Included, $350.

928-472-3232

*DOWNWINDERS CANCER CASES*

Order: 10073430 Cust: -McDonalds Keywords: Help Wanted art#: 20123185 Class: General Size: 2.00 X 4.00

Join our friendly Team

To apply online visit www.mcarizona.com Order: 10078995 Cust: -Maztazal Casino / HR Keywords: HVAC SERVICE TECHNICIAN art#: 20131163 Class: General Size: 2.00 X 5.00

The best job opportunity in Payson

Job Opening for HVAC SERVICE TECHNICIAN Description Manages and coordinates the work of Engineering, placing particular emphasis on overseeing the quality of the technical maintenance of facility.

Preferred candidates will have job functions of; Keep equipment, systems, building and grounds ready for use by completing preventative maintenance schedules, restoring and repairing equipment, Completing HVAC maintenance operation requirements. Preference given to certification in HVAC. Two to five years experience in HVAC preferred.

Benefits Offered Competitive Pay, Exceptional 401 (k) Plan; Excellent Medical Package; Dental & Vision; PTO Program (19 days); Discounts on Employee Meals.

Apply online at 777play.com or at Human Resources department M-Th. (7-4), F (7-11). Drug-free work environment. EOE

2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Mopar Muscle!

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79120

Permanent/Temporary Placements.

FREE to job seekers.

928-474-2845 info@employment-dynamics.co m. 418 S. Beeline.

Upload Resume @ www.employment-dynamics.co m Training/meeting room available.

Full-time position; bachelor degree in the field w/3 years supervisory experience and/or program development; Master degree in the field w/2 years supervisory experience and/or program development. BHP w/1 year supervisory experience; AZ driver license with good driving record, 21 years of age or older; must pass DPS fingerprint clearance.

Case Manager:

Clean Gila County Series 6 (Bar) Liquor License available January 1, 2016. $50,000 928-476-6503

I BUY ESTATES! (928) 474-5105 Regulation Slate Pool Table w/Cues and Balls, Blue Felt Top, Oak, Leather Pockets, Asking $1200.obo 928-468-2119 THE BLIND DOCTOR Broken Blinds? Saggy Shades?

Droopy Drapes? WE CAN FIX THAT! Dani 928-595-2968 BLINDS & DESIGNS Repairs, Sales, Shade Screens & More!

Two Used Inflatable Standup Paddleboards, Includes:Board, Pump, Paddle, Carry Bag. $425.ea OBO. The Perfect Christmas Gift! Practical and Fun! 928-474-6482

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS WANTED: Good, Used, Acoustic Guitar, 208-661-8560 (Payson)

AUTOS/VEHICLES CARS 2003 Toyota Corolla, Automatic, No Dings, Great Condition, Over 30 MPG, New Tires, Well Maintained, $4,000. 928-487-3168

2015 Dodge Journey Limited Leather, navigation, moonroof, backup camera and more!

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79121

Mobile RV & Trailer Repair!

Call Carl 928-951-3500 Ray’s Auto Exchange, 615 W. Main,Payson 928-978-8375 2004 Chevy Trail Blazer, Very Clean Inside/Out, 22 Inch Tires/Rims, 72K Miles, $6,995.

2004 Saab Aero 9.5, Only 43K Miles, Very Clean, $6,450.

2010 Dodge Avenger, Very Clean, $7,895.

Payson Roundup Newspaper is seeking an independent contractor to deliver newspapers,Tuesdays and Friday Afternoons, in Pine and Strawberry Arizona.

Must have knowledge of all in and outs of street locations .

Must be 21 years of age, good driving record, dependable transportation, Preferably 4-Wheel Drive & proof of insurance on vehicle.

Attached to your application provide a motor vehicle report.

Our Company Does Background Checks!

Applications available after 3:00 p.m. at 708 N. Beeline, Payson, AZ

HEALTH CARE

WE BUY CARS!

CARS 2002 Jeep Wrangler TJ

Provide case management services for SMI, Substance Abuse population and children/families. Min. req: HS/GED plus 4 years exp in BH or combined BH education and exp with at least 1 year case mgt exp; 21 yrs of age

Provide support services for children/families and adults in home. All shifts available. Min requirements: HS/GED; AZ driver license with good driving record; 21 years of age. No Experience needed. Starting salary: DOE Generous benefit package.

Submit application/resume to: Horizon Health and Wellness, 600 E. HWY 260 #8, Payson, AZ 85547; 928-474-4917, fax 928-474-7094, ines.tarango@hhwaz.org AA/EOE/M/F D/V

SERVICES

2008 Class C 31.5’’ Coachman Free Lander Ford, V10 Engine, Roof Top, Satelite and Solar System, Onan Generator 4,000, Lots of Storage, Lots of New Items. $38,000. 928-978-4204 or 928-978-1292

Order: 10076605 Cust: -Gila County Personnel art#: 20127705 Class: General Size: 2.00 X 2.00

KOHL’S RANCH LODGE 202 S. Kohl’s Ranch Lodge Road, Payson, Arizona

IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

Debco Construction

New Homes,Remodels,Decks, Painting, Garages, Wood/Tile Floors, Affordable Prices, Don 928-978-1996, Lic. & Bonded, Res. Lic.#ROC185345 Commercial Lic.#ROC182282 In Payson Area 35 years

HANDYMAN DHW Home Services Decks/Porches Sheds Drywall Texture Matching Paint Remodeling 928-595-1555 Credit Cards Accepted not a licensed contractor

Tile,Carpet and Wood Installer 35 years Exp. Repairs/Custom Showers Local References if needed Realters Welcome 928-951-2823 Robin H.

8 ft. $1,200; 16 ft $650; 21 ft $2,300; 28 ft toyhauler $3,700; 8’ x 14’ utility trailer, double axle $650.

928-978-3423.

Order: 10078450 Cust: -Kohls Ranch DIAMOND RESORTS INTERNATIONAL® Keywords: 1 Full Time Maintenance Tech. is a hospitality brand committed to hassle-free, relaxing vacations. art#: 20130382 Class: General Size: 2.00 X 2.00

Debco Construction

New Homes,Remodels,Decks, Painting, Garages, Wood/Tile Floors, Affordable Prices, Don 928-978-1996, Lic. & Bonded, Res. Lic.#ROC185345 Commercial Lic.#ROC182282 In Payson Area 35 years

JIMMY’S ALLTRADES Residential Repairs Since 1993 FREE ESTIMATES Plumbing, Electrical, Sun Screens, Dryer Vent Cleaning, Gutters Cleaned 928-474-6482 not licensed

RVS

(Inexpensive) Not a Licensed Contractor

JOE - 970-1873 HOME SERVICES

1 Full Time Maintenance Tech APPLY IN PERSON or ONLINE at DiamondResorts.com Diamond Resorts Management, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Forest Hills Condominiums

333 N. McLane Large 1-2 Bedrooms WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE WASHER & DRYER COVERED PARKING PET FRIENDLY CLOSE TO RUMSEY PARK & LIBRARY

Call Caroline 928-472-6055

Windows to Walls, Baseboards to Ceiling Fans WE CLEAN IT ALL!

Positively Payson

You’ve tried the rest, now try the best!

Gift Certificates Available

Call The Cheaper Sweeper for a free estimate: (928) 472-9897

LANDSCAPING Mario & Mario Landscaping and Masonry Complete Landscaping & Irrigation, Tree Service and Removal. Rock, Retaining Walls, Block Fencing Walls, Wrought Iron Fences.

Flagstone & Concrete Driveways, Pavers and Sidewalks.

Licensed, Bonded and Insured. Home Maitenance Available. Call 928-282-3118 Mention this add and get 10% Off!

LEGAL SERVICES REVOCABLE LIVING TRUSTS WILLS LIVING WILLS FINANCIAL POWERS OF ATTORNEY MEDICAL POWERS OF ATTORNEY DEEDS

Patricia Rockwell AZ Certified Legal Document Preparer/ Paralegal

928-476-6539 AZCLDP #81438

REAL ESTATE HOMES FOR SALE F.S.B.O. 3Br/2Ba, 1444sf, 1.20 Acres, Horses, Well, AC and Gas, Backs National Forest, Round Valley, $203K Call 928-978-3206 or 928-978-1501 Rural mountain home Placitas, NM north of Albuquerque. In-law suite, art studio, energy efficient, convenient location, scenic views. 505 867-5495

MOBILES FOR SALE 2Br4/2Ba Mobile, (Oak Trailer Park), Furnished, Fenced Yard, 2 Storage Sheds, Includes Washer/Dryer and Refrigerater, $12,000.obo Call 928-951-0856 Foreclosures: 30 Homes, both New and PreOwned to Choose From, Free Delivery, Call Bronco Homes, 1-800-487-0712

Tonto Oaks Apts. & Mobile Homes

120 S. Tonto St. Come live next to the BEST tenants in Payson!

Beautiful, Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments w/storage room Call Cindy for availability (928) 472-9238 or email tontooaksapts@yahoo.com STUDIO APT. Star Valley w/1 Car Garage, Gas & Electrice Included, $750.mo for one person; no pets Call 708-670-8289 or 928-951-5584 For More Information!

COMMERCIAL FOR RENT Best Office Value in Payson. 3 private offices, secretary/reception area, 1000sq. ft, centrally located, view, just $750 per month., single office $225, 928-468-1365.

Location! Last available retail store at this location. 580sq.ft. Great start-up. Last tenant did so well, he moved to a bigger store. Won’t last, 928-468-1365.

Office or Retail Space Lowest Rates In Payson Private Bath,500 sq.ft.

On Upgraded Remodeled Units, 1 Month Rent Free 602-616-3558

CONDOMINIUMS 3+ BR, 2 BA, Condo, 905 N. Beeline, 12 months lease, unfurnished, 1540 sq. ft., Water Included, Trash Disposal Included, W/D, Microwave, Dishwasher, Fireplace, Air Conditioning, Parking Available, Pool, Storage Available, $ 900.00, 928-474-9300.

HOMES FOR RENT 2Br/1Ba Den, Restored Home on Private Acre in town, Central Heating, Cooling, FP, Laundry, Fenced Yard, $800.mo 928-288-2440

REPOS: 2, 3, & 4 Bedrooms, Starting from $9,989. Call Bronco Homes: 1-800-487-0712

RENTALS APARTMENTS FOR RENT 1 Bedroom Ground Level Apartment, New Paint, New Tile, Great Downtown Location, South Beeline $600.mo 928-474-8000. Rim Country Guns 2 Bedroom Unfurnished, RAINBOW APTS. Pets-No! $550/mo Dep.Req. 928-970-1330 or 928-970-0158

3+ BR, 1 BA, Duplex, Round Valley, AZ, 85541, flexible lease, 1500 sq. ft., Water Included, W/D, Microwave, Outdoor Area, Carpet, Parking Available, Cats Allowed, Small Dogs Allowed, Large Dogs Allowed, Located on quiet 7 acres of trees at end of the road, adj to Natl Forest, Available 1 January, $950/mo, 480.229.1831, john@scottsdaletrails.com.

Apartment For Rent

Now Renting!

Canal Senior Apartments 807 S. Westerly Road Payson, AZ 85541 INCOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY Independent, vibrant living located off Historic Main Street and just down the road from Senior Center.

Home-like setting and big smiles from our professional staff. We offer spacious 1 an 2 bedroom apartment homes. For 25 years Syringa Property Management has been creating cheerful communities for individuals who want to enjoy an independent and enriching retirement.

See Manager for details Phone (928) 468-5650 Hearing Impaired TDD# 800-545-1833 x298

3+ BR, 2 BA, House, 203 E. Pinecone Circle , Payson, AZ, 85541, 12 months lease, $ 1000.00, Leslie 928-242-9543.

CUSTOM HOME 2BD/2BA Built in 2008, 2 Master Suites w/Loft/possible 3rd, FP, 2 Car Attached, RV Parking, 502 N. Granite; $1200/mo.+ First/Last, Available Now, 317-605-2115

PAYSON TRAILER RANCH 1 & 2 Bdrms Starting at $425.00 Spaces starting at $310.

1st Mo + Deposit!

All Include Cable/Water/Sewer/Trash Calll 928-517-1368

Apartments For Rent

Ho Ho Home Aspen Cove!

APARTMENTS FEATURING: 2 Bedrooms/2 Baths 2 Bedrooms/ 1.5 Baths Washers & Dryers Covered Parking Pet Friendly

ASPEN COVE

801 E. FRONTIER ST. #46, PAYSON, AZ 85541

(928) 474-8042

21243.1014

Warm & Cozy Community nestled in the Pines!

Call The Cheaper Sweeper

• • • • •

• Full-time FrontMaintenance • Full-time Housekeeper 1 Assistant Full Time Tech II Desk Manager • Part-time House Person 1 Full Time House Person • Full-time • Part-time House Person Laundry 1 Maintenance Full TimeTech Front Desk / Night Auditor

Apartments for Rent

Cute Apt. Near Hospital 1Br/1Ba, $600.mo Unfurnished, Convenient to Shopping, Movies, Restaurants 928-474-8759

Call The Cheaper Sweeper

Behavioral Health Paraprofessional/Family Support Partner/Recovery Support

Don’s Handyman Home Repairs, Mobile Home Roofs, Backhoe Work, Drains, Driveway, Landscaping, Yardwork Tree Trimming, Hauling!

Senior Discount: 928-478-6139

Sahara 4X4, Inline 6, Auto, Hardtop, 115k Mi. White, Reliable, Good shape W/ Extras. $10,500.

760-464-3979

Lawn Care

ad attached

CONSTRUCTION BLACK & WHITE BALLGOWNS MEN’S DESIGNER SUITS-46L

CALL 928-468-1670

Please pick-up an application and learn of the opportunities available at your McDonald’s today.

GENERAL

10ft, 20ft, 30ft. and 40ft.

Shipping Containters, Call 928-537-3257

SNOWY RIVER, AUSTRALIA FELT HAT, MOUNTAIN MEN FUR HATS!

PAYSON

Canyon State Credit Union needs a Branch Manager for our Payson location. In this role, you will ensure the branch exceeds service & sales expectations by maintaining a work environment which instills motivation, teamwork, & enterprising attitudes. Direct and oversee floor management activities ensuring an overall positive member experience. Min of 5 yrs Fin Institution experience,2 yrs mgmt experience. Knowledge of consumer lending and account opening/closing required. Send resume and cover letter to careers@canyonstatecu.org.

Finding the Right Fit

www.cancerbenefits.com Flagstaff Office; 928-774-1200 or 800-414-4328.

BAGS, GLOVES, LINGERIE, SCARVES

McDonald’s invites you to join our professional, friendly and dedicated team. McDonald’s is committed to outstanding customer service, people development and professional growth.

The McDonald’s Team offers Part-Time and Full Time employment with wages starting at $8.10 per hour.

Flexible hours, training, advancement opportunities, management development, employee retirement benefits, insurance, performance reviews and raises, and many other benefits. McDonald’s rewards outstanding performance.

2014 Ford Mustang Premium 18k miles and perfect only $19,411.

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79122

Branch Manager

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

MISCELLANEOUS

107 E. Lone Pine Drive, Payson, AZ 85541 (928) 474-6896

2013 Honda Odyssey ELITE has everything! Including Dual DVD players.

Chapman Auto Center, 474-5261 79123

HOME REPAIRS

Diversified Services IOWA BOY - HONEST, DEPENDABLE

928-951-6590 or 928-978-5473 Order: 10079017 Cust: -Town of Payson / HR Keywords: Police/Fire/911 Dispatcher Trainee art#: 20131192 Class: General Town of Payson Size: 2.00 X 2.00

APARTMENTS FOR RENT

HAULING Home Repair Lawn Care Hauling CD 2015

HAULING

CONSTRUCTION Installation Trainee position open Local Company, Four day week.

Travel, Tool Knowledge, detail-oriented, clean MVD, background/drug tests.

928-474-1727

BIKES/SCOOTERS

at $15.58/hr or Dispatcher I starting at $16.38/hr, depending upon qualifications, plus benefits. Must be willing to work irregular hours such as holidays, nights, and weekends. Obtain required application by calling (928) 474-5242 x5012; pick one up at Town Hall; or download at www.paysonaz.gov. Human Resources, 303 N Beeline Hwy, Payson, AZ 85541, must receive applications no later than 4PM MST, 01/27/16. EOE

EMPLOYMENT

CARS

Get the best results!

Cornerstone Property Services www.cornerstone-mgt.com

BERKSHIRE Prudential Pine

HATHAWAY HomeServices Advantage Realty

PO Box 329, 3640 Hwy 87, Pine, AZ 85544

928-476-3279

UNFURNISHED RENTAL HOMES NEEDED Independently Owned & Operated

PAYSON ROUNDUP HOMES FOR RENT Pine Prudential Rentals x3

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices Advantage Realty PROPERTY MANAGEMENT 609 S. BEELINE HWY. PAYSON, AZ 85541 474-5276

www.paysonrentals.com RESIDENTIAL RENTALS

1809 W. Fairway Ln., 3BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . $1450 1103 N. Camelot, 2BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . . . $1200 1106 N. William Tell Cir., 2BD, 2BA . . . . . . . $860 703 W. Saddle Ln. 3BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . . . $850 642 S. Palomino Dr., 2BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . $825 200 E. Malibu Dr. B6, 2BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . . . $800 1101 N. Carefree Cir., 2BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 604 E. Miller Rd., 2BD, 1BA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $750 609 N. Granite Dr., 3BD, 2BA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $725 607 S. Beeline Hwy. Sp#5, 1BD, 1BA . . . . . . . . $550 607 S. Beeline Hwy. C5, Studio 1BA. . . . . . . . . $425 607 S. Beeline Hwy. C4, Studio 1BA. . . . . . . . . $400 607 S. Beeline Hwy. C6, Studio,1BA . . . . . . . . . $400

COMMERCIAL LEASE SPACE 1500 Bravo Taxiway 601 N. Beeline 408 W. Main St., Suite 8 & Suite 11 708 E. Hwy 260 C1, A, B & E 708 E. Hwy 260 C2 1322 W. Red Baron Rd. #A

RV/MOTOR HOME SPACE Independently Owned & Operated

Rental # 1 Prestigious Furnished, 1 Bedroom, Kitchen, Patio, Fiat Tub Extremely Nicely, furnished, only $699.mo. one, or two tidy ladies.845.

Free Water/Trash/Sewer.

Beautiful grounds.

Background check.

Rental #2 Prestigious 2Br,Jack & Jill Bath, Jetted tub ,Great Room, Large Deck/View, Newly Furnished, Regular $1195.

Or If you will Keep clean & some Cooking only $795.for 1 Lady or Two Tidy Ladies $895. Free water, trash & sewer

LEGAL NOTICES is present in this county.

4.

No guardian has been appointed by a will or by order or any court, and no other proceedings for the appointment of a guardian are pending in any court.

5.

Parental rights of custody have been terminated or suspended by circumstances or prior court order.

6.

The welfare and best interests of the minor require the appointment of guardian because: 7.

Arlene Ramirez, born 427-62 and residing at 4904 N. Jeans Way, Strawberry, AZ 85544. Is qualified to serve as guardian.

8.

The relationship between the proposed guardian and the minor is (grandparent).

9.

The persons entitled to notice of this proceeding is: James Burton (unknown address), relationship - father.

Petitioner requests that the court appoint Arlene Ramirez and as guardian of the minor.

The undersigned swears or affirms that the statements set forth above are true and correct, subject the penalties of making a false affidavit or declaration.

Date: 11/11/15 /s/ Arlene Ramirez, Petitioner

Call 928-978-6505 Senior Lady or Couple to Rent New 1Br Apt. Attached to our home. Reduced Rent in exchange for part-time senior care for Elderly Lady. 928-978-4011

HORSE PROPERTY FOR RENT 2 BR, 2 BA, 1344 SF, 288 E Buckboard Trail, Gisela, AZ, 85541, 12 months lease, Yard maintenance included, $930, without Horsed, $850. Chuck Olinger 602-881-8736.

MOBILE/RV SPACES Mountain Shadows R.V. & Mobile Home Park, Nice quiet family park, Travel Trailers, furnished $400.00 mo, RV Spaces $256.55 mo, with onsite Manager, Laundry, Shower, Game room, and Wifi, Call Shawn at 928-474-2406 RYE RV PARK 1Br/1Ba, (Furnished) $350.mo & Up; Free Laundry On-site, Utility Dep. Water/Trash Included, Spaces $200.mo 602-502-0020

LEGAL NOTICES 15997: 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2015: IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA, GILA COUNTY In the Matter of the Guardianship of: Jocelyn R. Burton, Minor(s) Case No. GC 201500048 PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN(S) OF MINOR(S) Judge/Commissioner Petitioner(s) Arlene Ramirez allege(s): 1.

The minor is unmarried, born on June 02, 2009.

2.

The name, address, and/or dates of death of the minor’s parent are: Briana Chelen Cordle, 2026 N. 64th St., Mesa, AZ 85215; 11/9/15.

3.

The minor resides

16002: 12/15, 12/18/2015 NOTICE OF SALE OF MOBILE HOME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following item of personal property will be sold at public sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a landlord’s lien: Mobile Home Make: DLEMAR Body Style: 24 X 44 MH Model Year: 1974 VIN: P45584XX VIN: P45584XXU Date and Time of Sale: 12/30/15 10:30:00 AM Location of Sale: Space No. 108 SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP 5900 N. MAIN STREET GLOBE, AZ 85501 Name of landlord: SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP Amount of Claimed Lien: $11,844.00 as of December 30, 2015 The Landlord reserves the right to bid at said sale and if its bid is the highest, to purchase said mobile home. The Landlord claims a lien against this property in the amount shown above as of the date shown above, for rents and other charges which have accrued through that date under a rental agreement covering the space occupied by the mobile home. The rental agreement giving rise to this lien was entered into by the Landlord and the following parties, owners of the mobile home, as tenants: Date of Rental Agreement: April 12, 2013 Name(s) of Tenant(s): LYNDA EMILIA BEAUMONT Said mobile home is located at the address shown above as the location of sale. The above described property shall be offered for sale pursuant to A.R.S. §33-1023.

The proceeds from the sale will be applied to the cost of sale and to the lien, and any money that remains will be disposed of as provided in A.R.S. §33-1023. SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP By: /s/illegible Park Manager Dated: December 2, 2015 12/15, 12/18/15

LEGAL NOTICES CNS-2823202# 16003: 12/15, 12/18/2015 NOTICE OF SALE OF MOBILE HOME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following item of personal property will be sold at public sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a landlord’s lien: Mobile Home Make: HILLCREST Body Style: 12 X 60 MH Model Year: 1978 VIN: 02768519L Date and Time of Sale: 12/30/15 10:00:00 AM Location of Sale: Space No. 104 SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP 5900 N. MAIN STREET GLOBE, AZ 85501 Name of landlord: SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP Amount of Claimed Lien: $3,072.00 as of December 30, 2015 The Landlord reserves the right to bid at said sale and if its bid is the highest, to purchase said mobile home. The Landlord claims a lien against this property in the amount shown above as of the date shown above, for rents and other charges which have accrued through that date under a rental agreement covering the space occupied by the mobile home. The rental agreement giving rise to this lien was entered into by the Landlord and the following parties, owners of the mobile home, as tenants: Date of Rental Agreement: September 4, 2014 Name(s) of Tenant(s): ETHAN ALLEN GIBSON Said mobile home is located at the address shown above as the location of sale. The above described property shall be offered for sale pursuant to A.R.S. §33-1023.

The proceeds from the sale will be applied to the cost of sale and to the lien, and any money that remains will be disposed of as provided in A.R.S. §33-1023. SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP By: /s/illegible Park Manager Dated: December 2, 2015 12/15, 12/18/15 CNS-2823206# 16004: 12/15, 12/18/2015 NOTICE OF SALE OF MOBILE HOME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following item of personal property will be sold at public sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a landlord’s lien: Mobile Home Make: CAREFREE Body Style: 14 X 70 MH Model Year: 1981 VIN: FH41777281 Date and Time of Sale: 12/30/15 10:10:00 AM Location of Sale: Space No. 46 SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP 5900 N. MAIN STREET GLOBE, AZ 85501 Name of landlord: SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP Amount of Claimed Lien: $2,238.00 as of December 30, 2015 The Landlord reserves the right to bid at said sale and if its bid is the highest, to purchase said mobile home. The Landlord claims a lien against this property in the amount shown above as of the date shown above, for rents and other charges which have accrued through that date under a rental agreement covering the space occupied by the mobile home. The rental agreement giving rise to this lien was entered into by the Landlord and the following parties, owners of the mobile home, as tenants: Date of Rental Agreement: November 5, 2012 Name(s) of Tenant(s): STELLA MAXINE KENNEDY, WILLIAM CURTISS KENNEDY Said mobile home

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2015

LEGAL NOTICES is located at the address shown above as the location of sale. The above described property shall be offered for sale pursuant to A.R.S. §33-1023. The proceeds from the sale will be applied to the cost of sale and to the lien, and any money that remains will be disposed of as provided in A.R.S. §33-1023.

SANTIAGO COPPER COUNTRY MHP By: /s/illegible Park Manager Dated: December 2, 2015 12/15, 12/18/15 CNS-2823209 16006: 12/11, 12/15, 12/18/2015: ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION NONPROFIT CORPORATION 1.

ENTITY NAME: Payson Wrestlers Booster Club, File No. 19824190 2.

CHARACTER OFAFFAIRS: Youth Wrestling Club 3.

MEMBERS: (x) The corporation WILL have members.

4.

ARIZONA KNOWN PLACE OF BUSINESS ADDRESS: the business address is the same as the street address of the statutory agent.

5.

DIRECTORS: Joann Norman, 1112 N. Rhone Circle, Payson, AZ 85541; Wendy Anderson, 1006 W. Rock Spring S., Payson, AZ 85541; Rocky Beery, 202 W. Roundup Rd., Payson, AZ 85541.

6.

Statutory Agent: Rocky Beery, 202 W. Roundup Rd., Payson, AZ 85541.

7.

Incorporators: Rocky Beery, 202 W. Roundup Rd., Payson, AZ 85541; By checking the box married “I accept” below, I acknowle3dge under penalty of perjury that this document together with any attachments is submitted in compliance with Arizona law. (x) I ACCEPT; /s/ Rocky Beery, Rocky Beery. Date: 6/5/2015 (x) I am signing as a member, manger or authorized agent of a limited liability company, and its name is: Payson Wrestler Booster Club 16007: 12/11, 11/15, 12/18/2015: NOTICE (for publication) ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION HAVE BEEN FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE ARIZONA CORPORATION COMMISSION FOR I. Name: PURPLE ROCK PLACE, L.L.C. File No. L-2044081-1 II. The address of the known place of business is: 1405 N. McLane Rd., Payson, AZ 85541.

III. The name and street address of the Statutory Agent is: Cameron Webb w/o Law Office of Gloria Francom, 1355 N. Greenfield Rd., Mesa, AZ 85205.

(A) Management of the limited liability company is vested in a manager or managers. The names and addresses of each person who is a manager AND each member who owns a twenty percent or greater interest in the capital or profits of the limited liability company are: Derek Weatherly, (x) manager, 1116 Oday Drive, Winter Springs, FL 32708; Kristi Weatherly, (x) manager, 1116 Oday Drive, Winter Springs, FL, 32708.

16009: 12/15, 12/18/2015 NOTICE OF SALE OF MOBILE HOME NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following item of personal property will be sold at

LEGAL NOTICES public sale to the highest bidder, to satisfy a landlord’s lien: Mobile Home Make: ARTCRAFT Body Style: 12 X 64 MH Model Year: 1973 VIN: 6412S3666A Date and Time of Sale: 12/23/15 10:00:00 AM Location of Sale: Space No. 56A ALHAMBRA MOBILE HOME PARK & STORAGE 1421 S. MONTEREY ST. GLOBE, AZ 85501 Name of landlord: ALHAMBRA MOBILE HOME PARK & STORAGE Amount of Claimed Lien: $2,832.00 as of December 23, 2015 The Landlord reserves the right to bid at said sale and if its bid is the highest, to purchase said mobile home. The Landlord claims a lien against this property in the amount shown above as of the date shown above, for rents and other charges which have accrued through that date under a rental agreement covering the space occupied by the mobile home. The rental agreement giving rise to this lien was entered into by the Landlord and the following parties, owners of the mobile home, as tenants: Date of Rental Agreement: April 28, 2015 Name(s) of Tenant(s): ALICIA MARIE WRIGHT Said mobile home is located at the address shown above as the location of sale. The above described property shall be offered for sale pursuant to A.R.S. §33-1023.

The proceeds from the sale will be applied to the cost of sale and to the lien, and any money that remains will be disposed of as provided in A.R.S. §33-1023. ALHAMBRA MOBILE HOME PARK & STORAGE By: /s/illegible Park Manager Dated: December 9, 2015 12/15, 12/18/15 CNS-2824838# 16011: 12/18, 12/25/2015, 1/1, 1/8/2016: TS/File 126879.10219 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE The following legally described trust property will be sold, pursuant to the power of sale under that certain Deed of Trust recorded on JANUARY 2, 2007, in INSTRUMENT NO. 2007-000028 in the Office of the County Recorder of GILA County, Arizona - NOTICE! IF YOU BELIEVE THERE IS A DEFENSE TO THE TRUSTEE SALE OR IF YOU HAVE AN OBJECTION TO THE TRUSTEE SALE, YOU MUST FILE AN ACTION AND OBTAIN A COURT ORDER PURSUANT TO RULE 65, ARIZONA RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE, STOPPING THE SALE NO LATER THAN 5:00 P.M. MOUNTAIN STANDARD TIME OF THE LAST BUSINESS DAY BEFORE THE SCHEDULED DATE OF THE SALE, OR YOU MAY HAVE WAIVED ANY DEFENSES OR OBJECTIONS TO THE SALE. UNLESS YOU OBTAIN AN ORDER, THE SALE WILL BE FINAL AND WILL OCCUR at public auction to the highest bidder AT THE MAIN ENTRANCE OF PIONEER TITLE AGENCY, INC., 421 S. BEELINE HWY, PAYSON, ARIZONA on FEBRUARY 10, 2016 at 10:00 A.M. of said day: Lot 44, WOODHILL UNIT ONE, according to Map Nos. 677 through 677C, records of Gila County, Arizona.

Purported Property Address: 809 W. SHERWOOD, PAYSON, AZ. Tax Parcel Number: 304-90-044. Original Principal Balance: $122,000.00 Original/Current Beneficiary: FRANK N.

LEGAL NOTICES GLEMBA and SALLY M. GLEMBA, 510 W. LOCUST RD., PAYSON, AZ 85541.

Original/Current Trustor: RCI INC., an Arizona corporation, P.O. BOX 1500, PAYSON, AZ 85547. Said Trustee’s Sale will be held without covenant or warranty express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the unpaid principal balance of $122,000.00 plus monies due as provided under the terms of said Deed of Trust, plus fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trust created by said Deed of Trust. Dated: NOVEMBER 6, 2015. Current Trustee: Pioneer Title Agency, Inc., an Arizona corporation. 580 East Wilcox Drive, Sierra Vista, AZ 85635. (520) 458-3500 Pioneer Title Agency, Inc., an Arizona corporation, as Trustee. By: /s/ Shannon E. Copp, Assistant Secretary.

Manner of Trustee Qualification: Escrow Agent. Name of Regulating Agency: Arizona Department of Financial Institutions. STATE OF ARIZONA, COUNTY OF MARICOPA. The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me on November 9, 2015, by Shannon E. Copp, Assistant Secretary of Pioneer Title Agency, Inc., an Arizona corporation. By: /s/ Erin C. Klabough, Notary Public. My Commission Expires: January 7, 2018.

16013: 12/18, 12/25/2015 ORDINANCE NO. 875 AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PAYSON, ARIZONA, ADDING PAYSON TOWN CODE SECTION 154-02-004(B)(11) OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE RELATING TO USE OF RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AS TEMPORARY DWELLINGS AND ADDING THE DEFINITION OF “ Q U I C K CONNECT/DISCONNECT SERVICES” TO SECTION 154-11-002 OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE. WHEREAS, the Code of the Town of Payson (“Code”) was declared to be a public record by Resolution 1536 and was adopted as a public record by Ordinance 588; and WHEREAS, the Town of Payson (“Town”) currently prohibits the use of recreational vehicles for dwelling purposes unless they are located in an RV park or are part of a limited number of spaces located within a manufactured home park; and WHEREAS, on September 21, 2015, the Town Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing regarding proposed additions to UDC Sections 154-02-004 (Residential Districts) and 154-11-002 (Definitions) that would allow recreational vehicles to be used as temporary dwellings in conjunction with residential uses/residential zoning districts under certain circumstances and subject to specific limitations, and recommended disapproval of said UDC additions; and WHEREAS, the Town Council held public hearings on October 15, 2015 and November 5, 2015, considered public and Council input on the proposed additions to

9B

LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

UDC Sections 154-02-004 and 154-11-002, and instructed staff to incorporate said input.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF PAYSON, ARIZONA, DO HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1: The additions to UDC Sections 154-02-004 and 154-11-002 set forth in Resolution 2880 were declared to be a public record

by Resolution 2880, and are referred to and adopted by reference as though set forth in full in this Ordinance.

SECTION 2: At least t h r e e copies of the proposed UDC additions adopted by this Ordinance shall be filed in the Office of the Town Clerk and shall be kept available for public use and inspection.

SECTION 3: All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with the provisions of this Ordinance or any part of the Code adopted herein by reference are hereby repealed.

relating to the above-referenced hearing items are available at the Town of Payson website, www.paysonaz.gov or at the Community Development Department at 303 N. Beeline Highway, Payson, Arizona 85541, a minimum of 48 hours prior to the scheduled hearing. This department welcomes written comments at the address listed above.

The Town of Payson endeavors to make all public meetings accessible to persons with disabilities. With 48 hours advance notice, special assistance can also be provided for sight and/or hearing impaired persons at public meetings.

Please call 474-5242 (voice) or 472-6449 (TDD) to request an accommodation to participate in the meeting.

PUBLISH PAYSON ROUNDUP: December 18, 2015 Sheila DeSchaaf, Planning & Development Director

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SECTION 4: If any sect i o n , subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance or any part of the Code adopted herein is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions thereof.

SECTION 5: The provisions of this Ordinance No. 875 shall sunset thirty-six months from the effective date hereof on January 9, 2018, with a review period to be conducted during the five months preceding January 9, 2018.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Payson, Arizona, this 10th day of December, 2015, by the following vote: AYES: 7 NOES: 0 ABSTENTIONS: 0 ABSENT: 0 Kenny J. Evans, Mayor ATTEST: APPROVED TO FORM:

AS

Sell it fast!

Silvia Smith, Town Clerk Hector M. Figueroa, Town Attorney 16014: 12/18/2015 LEGAL NOTICE The Town of Payson Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing at 3:00 P.M., Monday, January 4, 2016 on the application listed below.

A15-006, An application filed by the Town of Payson to abandon a portion of the Chaparral Pines Drive right of way to allow for the construction of an elk fence on the private property on the west side of the roadway, within the Chaparral Pines Subdivision.

You’ll find a receptive audience for sales with an ad in the Payson Roundup classifieds!

All meetings are held in the Town Council Chambers at 303 North Beeline Highway.

All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing and comment on the proposed requests. Materials

CALL THE PAYSON ROUNDUP at 474-5251 or drop in 708 N. BEELINE

Payson Roundup LOCAL Friday, December 18, 2015

10B

Closures protect nesting eagles

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Photo courtesy of DJ Craig

The Arizona Game and Fish Department this week announced the annual closures of areas near bald eagle nest sites, including eagles nesting at Woods Canyon Lake and Tonto Creek.

Each year as part of its highly successful program to manage and conserve bald eagles in the state, the Arizona Game and Fish Department asks outdoor recreationists, aircraft pilots, drone operators and motorized paragliders to help this magnificent bird in Arizona. These groups are asked to honor the closure of 23 areas across the state that are important bald eagle breeding sites.

Closures to protect the breeding eagles include portions of Woods Canyon Lake and Tonto Creek.

Various land and wildlife management agencies close the breeding areas during the birds’ breeding season to protect the state’s 59 breeding pairs of bald eagles. Some of the closure areas are located near popular recreation sites.

“Cooperation from outdoor recreationists has been a major reason that the bald eagle population continues to grow, and now we’re working to create more awareness among aircraft pilots, drone operators and motorized paragliders. Pilots should maintain the FAA-recommended 2,000-foot above ground level advisory when flying over bald eagle habitat, and drones and paragliders are asked to avoid the areas completely,” says Kenneth Jacobson, head of the Arizona Game and Fish Department Bald Eagle Management Program.

Bald eagles are sensitive to even short durations of low-flying aircraft activity near their nests and just a few minutes of disturbance can lead to a nesting failure.

In December, Arizona bald eagles begin rebuilding nests in preparation for laying eggs. The birds nest, forage and roost at the rivers and lakes that have become some of Arizona’s most popular recreation spots, and this time of year can be challenging for the birds.

VISITING EAGLE AREAS

If you are visiting bald eagle country, an advance call to the local land management agency (U.S. Forest Service district, etc.) or the Arizona Game and Fish Department may help you plan your trip to avoid disturbing bald eagles.

By following these simple guidelines, we can all help ensure

that our living wildlife legacy will last for generations to come.

• Enjoy bald eagles from outside the closures, which are marked with signs and/or buoys.

Watch from a distance using a spotting scope, binoculars or telephoto camera lens.

• Anyone approached by a nestwatcher and asked to cease an activity or leave a closed area should comply. A few good places to see bald eagles without disturbing them (during December and January) are at Lake Mary and Mormon Lake near Flagstaff or on the Verde Canyon Train in Clarkdale.

• Bald eagles protecting an active nest will let you know if you are too close. If a bald eagle is vocalizing and circling the area frantically, you are too close and need to leave the area quickly. Bald eagles incubating eggs or brooding small young should never be off the nest for more than 15 minutes.

• Pilots should maintain the FAA-recommended 2,000-foot AGL advisory when flying over bald eagle habitat such as along the riparian areas of the Salt and Verde rivers and lakes such as Lake Pleasant, Roosevelt Lake and Alamo Lake. Special brochures for pilots regarding this advisory can be obtained by calling the Arizona Department of Transportation or the Arizona Game and Fish Department at 623-236-7506.

• Help from anglers is especially needed. Fishing line and tackle have killed two nestlings and been found in two-thirds of all bald eagle nests in the state.

Every year biologists remove these lethal hazards from nests and/or entangled nestlings.

Discard of any fishing line properly in specially-marked recycling containers or at fishing stores.

Also, use fresh line that isn’t old and brittle. Use the correct test line for the fish you are trying to catch. Also, do not cut the line when an undesirable fish is caught and return it to the water with the hook and line attached.

You can help bald eagle research and recovery efforts by reporting any harassment or shooting of bald eagles. Call the Arizona Game and Fish Operation Game Thief Hotline at 800-3520700 or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Law Enforcement at 480967-7900.

SEASONAL CLOSURES Woods Canyon Lake A portion of the lake may be closed to watercraft and a portion of the shoreline is closed to foot entry from April 1 through Aug. 31.

Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Black Mesa Ranger District, 928-535-7300.

Tonto Creek Inlet to Roosevelt Lake is closed to vehicle and foot entry within 1,000 feet of the nest on land, and to watercraft within 300 feet until June 30. Contact Tonto Basin Ranger District, 928-467-3200.

Verde River The following locations are closed to foot traffic and vehicle entry until June 30, but floating through is allowed, without stopping on the banks. Contact 928-567-4121 or 595-3300.

• • • • • • •

Near Chasm Creek Near Cold Water Creek Upstream of the East Verde confluence Near Mule Shoe Bend Below Horseshoe Dam Below Bartlett Dam At the Needle Rock Recreation area

Salt River • From Horseshoe Bend to Redmond Flat • Near Meddler Point • Below Stewart Mountain Dam • Near Goldfield-Kerr Fire Station

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