Kenny will tell CAC all about ASU-Payson project

At the next meeting of the Citizens Awareness Committee (CAC), at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 28 at the library, Payson Mayor Kenny Evans is scheduled to speak on the ASU-Payson project.

If you are a regular blog reader, you know about our skepticism for aspects of the project, particularly Evans' claims to have $500 million committed to it, and to a timetable for opening the facility that, in our humble opinion, is pure pie in the sky.

But there is good news. The CAC meeting is open to the public, so come on out and see if Kenny answers these questions to your satisfaction. And if nobody else asks them, don't be afraid to.

Term 'Liberal' defies one word explanation

If you have a moment, I invite you to work through a word association exercise with me. The goal is to come up with a one word description of various items I will suggest to you.

Ready?

O.K. first item - the Grand Canyon. What word describes it to you? How about Awesome? Deep? Wide? Huge? It’s difficult, isn’t it, to limit the description to one word.

Let’s see; how about the Eiffel Tower? Tall? Iron Grid? (no, that’s two words) Overarching? Hmmm, this is going to be tough.

Here are a few well recognized items. Let’s see if we can define them in a single word.

Tomato. Cadillac. Door. Sweetheart.

How did you do? Remember, you can only designate one single word to define each one.

Nearly impossible, you say?

Then how on earth can some people be so smug when defining certain other people as “Liberal” or “Conservative” as if one word says it all?

For example: a common practice among a certain political group is to use the word Liberal as a derogatory epithet. It is open code for something negative, apparently needing or deserving no further exposition. “He (or She) is a Liberal!” is heard in many political ads.

O.K., and the Grand Canyon is huge. What about it?

You rarely hear the word “Conservative!” thrown out negatively at a candidate, unless it is accompanied by an additional adjective or two. You may possibly hear, “He (or she) is a lock step No! Conservative.” That’s using more than one word to describe the subject, however, so we must disqualify it for this exercise.

Perhaps you could make a case that Conservatives purchase more advertising, thus increasing the use of the term Liberal! That would be ironic, though, because aren’t Conservatives the ones criticizing big spending?

Elections are goofy. Trust me I know.

I come from the Old South which was solidly Democratic and known in those days as solidly Conservative. “Pointy Head Liberals” was as much a battle cry then as its modern day relation. Only then, Republicans were seen as the Pointy Head Liberals.

“I would sooner vote for an old yeller dog as vote Republican,” was a slogan which still can be heard in some halls of congress today. “Yellow Dog” Democrats vow to vote along straight party lines. So far as is known, Republicans haven't come up with their own nickname.

Today, of course, there has been a polar shift in politics. What were once Conservative Democrats are now Republican Conservatives, and Democrats are now seen as the Pointy Head Liberals. The solid Democrat South is now a sure thing for Republicans.

Any idea what brought about the reversal? It had less to do with fiscal or foreign policy or size of government or any of the oft heard complaints today. Conservatives, in fact, had long kept a party in power which contributed to big deficits and was a champion of government assistance. This powerful Conservative alliance also guaranteed a privileged place in society for a certain group of people.

That was seen as OK then.

Then, abruptly, southern Democrats felt betrayed by their party and the federal government over a defining issue - Integration - integration in public schools and integration at public lunch counters. The Supreme Court found that black folks were entitled to the same rights as whites, and the federal government was responsible for protecting those rights.

Actually the first bitter seeds were sown under Eisenhower, but soon Kennedy, then Johnson was left in charge of full implementation. Conservatives ran for the hills and deserted the Democratoc Party in droves. In some ways the party has never recovered.

I long ago put my wool hat in mothballs, because I was never sure when to wear it.

I resolved to not be identified by any political party affiliation. I would be undependable when called upon to support the party over conscience. I find myself agreeing with some ideas and disagreeing with others.

I like to think of this as being an Independent. God forbid that Independents ever sucessfully form a formal political party, though. That would just ruin it for everyone.

To be honest, I’m not really sure whether it might be preferable to be a Liberal or a Conservative in the world of politics. There are desirable elements in both positions. Neither, however, has a total lock on reality or a Rosetta Stone for a perfect interpretation of “The Way.”

There was a time when pragmatism ruled politics. In those days, great orators were allowed platforms for displaying their skill. Riveting speeches went into great detail to justify a position. Then, friendly opponents got together and worked out a compromise or traded up or down to get legislation passed. Two things happened. The public was given an opportunity to hear a position laid out in depth, and the congress moved things along.

Not a perfect system, perhaps,but a reasonably effective one. Neither of those things are much in evidence today.

If the U.S. is to survive, and certainly if it is to continue to be a leader among nations, a way must be found to break through the barriers of blind prejudice and ego driven politics. The American model is built upon cooperation while working toward a common goal.

Building moats around hard and fast positions and hurling meaningless insults at one another only insures that hard won gains for our society are put at risk to be undone.

Yelling “Snake!” on a crowded playground may indeed frighten the children for a time.

Yelling “Liberal” may get an unexamined reflex from some people in today’s political arena. but it sure doesn't do much toward solving major problems.

Personally, I don’t mind being called a Liberal. I do, however, reserve my own definition of the term. I also consider myself very conservative in the way I attempt to live my life.

One word definitions are harder to justify than you might think.

Is Chamber's RFP for new web designer slanted?

By Jim Keyworth
Gazette Blog Editor

The Gazette Blog has been contacted by an individual who believes the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce is trying to pull a fast one in issuing a request for proposal (RFP) for a web development company to build them a new website.

Our primary source is a prominent member of the community, an individual who has requested to remain anonymous so he can continue to function within the existing business infrastructure without repercussion. But we have corroborated what he says below with other sources knowledgeable about website design.

On Sept. 29, the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce issued the aforementioned RFP to do its website. The Gazette applauded the e-mail containing the RFP, even sending Chamber Manager John Stanton a return e-mail encouraging him to do the same with printing projects like the Chamber’s monthly newsletter and the August Doin’s Rodeo Guide, both of which the Payson Roundup does without having to bid.

But we don’t know much about websites. Or about proposals for doing them. Our source does, and he says the Chamber’s RFP is specifically written so only one particular web development company is likely to win the bid. In other words, he believes the bid is rigged.

Here’s what the RFP from the Chamber reads:

Dear Chamber Members:
In response to inquiries about the Chamber Website, we have been researching different websites, and are seeking expertise in the application system we have chosen for the maximum utilization by the Chamber. If interested, please submit a proposal of services, using the attached specifications, by October 11, 2010.

The Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce is reviewing building a new website. The Web Development Company chosen will need to be proficient or have expertise in the following areas of web development and integration.

Expert in CMS Platform setup using DotNetNuke 5.5.1 Proficient in DNN Portal Skinning Setup and Procedures
Expert in Xmod Pro 2.7.1 Programing Language
Expert in Sequel Server DBA Development
Proficient in writing Database Quarries
Expert in setting up Multi-Portal Integration
.Net Developer with expertise in Com Objects
VB.net Programing Experience Required
Proficient in Windows Server 2008 File System Integration
Proficient in IIS Web Server Applications
Expert in Cross Browser Integration
Expert in CCS Styling
Expert in Google Analytics Integration
Expertise in Java Scripting
Expertise in Flash 4.0 open source Flex framework
Expertise in applying Search Engine Optimization techniques
Custom Web Graphics Design and Integration Expertise
Expert in web based community calendar function and integration
Shopping Cart integration and Setup of SSL, Merchant Accounts and Online Payment Processing Applications
Expertise in setting up of USPS, FedEx and UPS Real Time Shipping API
Expert in IAB advertising rates, sizes and integration of "Cost Per View" modules and tracking procedures
Expert in online streaming video integration and delivery
Expertise in FTP setup
Must have a CWD certification from the Association of Web Professionals

Please mail or fax your resume to the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
100 W. Main St. PO Box 1744
Payson, AZ 85547
Fax Number: (928) 474-8812
No phone calls please

Like we said, it’s Greek to us. But it’s not to our source, who explained:

“It is obvious that the Chamber is once again up to its exclusionary tactics as they did with the Payson Roundup when it came time to print their monthly newsletter. In order to avoid the appearance of impropriety they have submitted to their Chamber members an RFP for their new website.

“In all my years, I have never seen such a ridiculous list of requirements. Usually the customer makes a list of what they want to accomplish with their website, not HOW TO DO IT or WHICH PROGRAM TO USE. Why dictate what programs to use in developing their website if they were not directed to do so by the person they want to do their website?

“Trust me, a former insurance salesman (like Stanton) would not have the knowledge to write up this RFP. Why don't they demand that the graphic designer be proficient in Adobe Dreamweaver? This is the number one software used by graphic designers. Why not WordPress? This is also a very popular web design format used today for bloggers.

“I have a couple decades under my belt having written hundreds of these highly specific RFPs for my former customers so as to ‘exclude’ others and guarantee that my company would be the actual winner of the RFP. In other words, I was able to help my customer (usually a government agency which had to comply with fairness) write a very specific RFP so that it would exclude certain other companies that the agency didn't want to work with or that provided a product line that they didn't want to use.

“Stanton and the Chamber board of directors should be asked to explain where they got their list of requirements, to explain each one and why.

“HERE'S HOW THE CHAMBER SHOULD HAVE DONE THEIR BIDDING TO BE FAIR:

“Do an RFP that is statewide, not just ‘member’ wide.
Open it up to EVERY DESIGNER and have them create a live online ‘mock-up’ of the website for ALL MEMBERS to choose from. I think that this is the least the board can do to involve their members and show them that they want their input. (Businesses used to come to the University of Arizona design department and do this for logo designs, etc. They paid a set amount to the winner; EVERYONE got a chance.)

“(Finally, the Chamber needs to) NAME EVERY APPLICANT who does a ‘Mock-up’ web design.”

The information provided above by our anonymous source was corroborated by two local web designers. We invite the Chamber to explain itself. We will happily provide prominent and equal space.

And it will be real interesting to see who “wins” the bid.

(Editor’s note: Please copy this article from the blog [it’s a simple cut and paste] and send it on to those on your e-mail contact list. While the blog receives over 5,000 visits per month, we want this story to have the widest exposure possible.)

LETTER: Time to throw incumbent bums out

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Dear Editor:
Today we were informed that the government has reached the momentous decision to suspend the funding of the notorius "Virtual fence" along our Southern border! Seems that the billion dollars paid thus far to Boeing Corp. has produced a miracle of modern technology along roughly fifty miles of our southern border ... that simply doesn't work! Darn, don't you hate it when that happens!

It probably would have made more sense if Homeland Security would have spent that same billion dollars on hiring 1,000 Border Agents for 20 years at an average salary of $50,000 annually! Those agents then could have paid taxes, spent money buying goods and services, and lowered the unemployment in that area ... but gosh, that would have made too much sense, right?

This is just one more example why we need to remove all incumbent politicians, and make it clear to the new ones that they WILL be held accountable for every one of our tax dollars that are spent! Get out and vote them out of office!
Larry J. Kontz

Big bark over Mohave Co. ordinance limiting dogs

Betsy Senn pets Casey, her 12-year-old schnauzer-terrier mix, in the backyard of her Kingman home. When the Mohave County Board of Supervisors voted to impose a limit of two dogs on property of an acre or less, many residents objected. Now the board is expected to reverse that vote. (Cronkite News Service Photo by Maria Polletta)

By MARIA POLLETTA
Cronkite News Service

KINGMAN – As Casey, a 12-year-old schnauzer-terrier mix, lounges on Betsy Senn’s lap, a poodle scuttles across the porch and two chihuahuas chase each other through the yard.

A plump gray cat stretches along a bench. One of Senn’s two potbellied pigs relaxes in the shade.

But the front gate leading to Senn’s home is padlocked, a black-and-orange “NO TRESPASSING” sign fastened to the wire. A thicket of trees blocks the yard and animals from view.

Senn has been wary of animal control showing up since the Mohave County Board of Supervisors passed an ordinance changing various rules for pet owners and kennels. One provision reduces the number of dogs allowed on an acre or less from four to two.

Senn said she doesn’t understand why supervisors are coming down so hard on dog owners.

“If you’re financially able to have 10 or 20, what should it matter to the county as long as they’re all being taken care of?” she said.

The two-dog limit, which the board approved Oct. 4, sparked such an outcry among Senn and other pet lovers that supervisors plan to change it back to four at their Nov. 1 meeting. Other provisions of the ordinance apply to kennel owners, including requiring roofs and flooring, and those will stand.

Tom Sockwell, a supervisor who voted for the ordinance, said more needs to be done to address frequent complaints about barking dogs and cases of animal hoarding and neglect. Sockwell, who is from Bullhead City, said pet owners can now expect the county to more diligently enforce the limit, which includes requiring those wanting more than four dogs to get a permit.

“It has to be done. We have to do something to make things better,” he said.

In 2009, animal control responded to 2,467 animal-related incidents, including complaints of animal neglect, barking dogs and bites, according to the Mohave County Sheriff’s Office. In the first half of this year, animal control responded to 2,425 incidents.

Lotti Benker, founder of the Kingman no-kill shelter Help Animals Lives Today, acknowledged that supervisors are trying to curtail animal abuse. But she said that mindset ultimately punishes the majority of loving pet owners for the behavior of an irresponsible few.

“There is an outcry that it is totally unfair, unrealistic and unjustifiable to place a limit on a whole community,” Benker said. “I find it rather arbitrary.”

Most residents don’t want any limits on pets, according to Kristal Gibson, manager of the Bullhead Regional Economic Development Authority and member of the research panel responsible for developing the ordinance. But Gibson said the county had to start somewhere.

“We’ve had death threats over this issue. No one wants to be controlled,” she said. “Unfortunately, you do need some guidelines. How can county officials hold abusive owners accountable with no ordinances on the books?”

In order to fashion the ordinance, the nine-member research panel spent about six months meeting with kennel owners, reviewing federal mandates on animal cruelty, speaking to the Humane Society and PETA and investigating ordinances in other states.

But Gibson said residents with more than four dogs don’t have to live in fear of their pets being taken away if neighbors don’t complain to animal control, something that she said comes down to proper care.

“If you love your animals, if you’ve taken excellent care, you feed them, no one’s complaining about them … you’ll never see a county person at your door,” she said. “Never.”

The ordinance also includes these rules for kennel owners:
-Roofing to protect animals from the elements.
-Concrete, sand or gravel flooring.
-Minimum kennel sizes.
-Room for animals to exercise.
-Separating sick animals from healthy ones.
-Daily waste removal.

Rim Country mourns loss of local artist Joy Layson

"Every time an artist dies,

part of the vision of

mankind passes with him."

Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Photo by Jim Keyworth
Longtime local artist Joy Layson is dead at the age of 83.  Layson was born in 1927 in Waukegan, Ill.  She attended the American Academy of Fine Arts and the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts.  She taught art in Illinois and Colorado and co-owned an art gallery in Estes Park, Colo.  She also taught art at Gila Community College and at her home studio in Payson.  A special memorial service, "A One Woman Art Show," will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at Church of the Nazarene on Tyler Parkway at the Beeline Highway roundabout.  Rim Country residents who own pieces of Layson's work are asked to bring them to the service to contribute to a display.  Lunch will follow for her closest friends.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Payson Art League to be used for art education in Joy's honor, or to the Humane Society of Central Arizona (812 S. McLane Road, Payson 85541) to care for the Rim Country's homeless animals.

OUT AND ABOUT

IN THE RIM COUNTRY
Compiled by the staff of the Mogollon Connection

PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY TODAY

Photo by Jim Keyworth
It's Humane Society Chili Supper time again.  For details, see Upcoming Events below.

Payson community events

Thursday, October 21
7th Annual Up, Up and Away with Domestic Violence Radiothon from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Chapman Auto Center, 100 N. Beeline Highway. Sponsored by Soroptimist International of Zane Grey County with KMOG, KRIM and Chapman Auto. Join our community outreach program. Proceeds to benefit the Rim Country Arizonans for Children, Payson Community Kids, Time Out, Inc., and Soroptimist scholarships. For more information, contact Kathy Hall at (928) 951-0349.

Toddlers Story Time every Thursday at 10 a.m. in the Payson Public Library Children’s Room. Includes bounces, ticklers and songs for ages six months to two years.

Fall Outdoor Photography from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Payson Parks, Recreation & Tourism Office, 1000 W. Country Club Drive. Learn simple techniques to capture the reality of what you see behind the camera lens. Instructor Dennis Fendler will provide a short indoor presentation followed by a caravan trip to East Verde. Bring your digital or analog camera, but manual adjustment options are preferred. Register now through Thursday, Oct. 14. Open to ages 16 and older; $15 per person. For more information, call: 474-5242, ext. 7 or visit the Web site: http://www.paysonrimcountry.com/

Family Time at the Isabelle Hunt Memorial Library in Pine every Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. Activities include games, stories, puppets and art. For more information, call the library, 476-3678.

Crafty Kidz at the Payson Public Library Children’s Room every Thursday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. A craft center for kids to create, experiment and have fun. Different weekly activities include coloring, painting, stamping, magnets, cooking, clay sculpting, jewelry and papier mache. Open to kids of all ages. Parents must accompany children 5 years of age and under. For more information, contact Harryette, 474-9260.

Dinner Specials every Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Greater Payson Moose Lodge #258, 225903 E. Highway 260 in Star Valley. Specials include fried and baked fish, breaded shrimp or chicken along with vegetables, dinner salad, bread and choice of potato. $7 per person. Members and guests welcome.

Magic Show and Dinner every Thursday night from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at MoJoe’s Café on Main Street featuring the Miracle of Magic with Joe Miracle. Sit back and be entertained with table magic and magnificent stage illusions. Reservations recommended. Please call 478-8828.
Payson Tea Party Sons and Daughters of Liberty regular meeting at Tiny’s Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Friday, October 22
Free Art Classes every Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Payson Senior Center, 514 W. Main Street. Instructor, Helen Tennent. For more information or to enroll, call 474-3996 or 474-4876.

“Famous Fish Fry” at the American Legion Tonto Rim Post #69 every Friday from noon to 8 p.m., 709 E. Highway 260. Karaoke from 6 to 10 p.m. Public welcome.

Music Together class at the Payson Public Library, 328 N. McLane Road, from 1 to 1:45 p.m. Join infants, toddlers, pre-schoolers and their grownups in moving, singing, playing instruments and having fun during this free demonstration. Limited class size. Sign up today or call Harryette at 474-9260.

Beginning Genealogy Class every third Friday of the month from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Genealogy Library, 302 E. Bonita Street. The class is packed full of concepts, techniques and ideas which will get you started on your way to fulfilling a lifetime of tracing your family tree. Pre-registration and payment of fee is required. $5 for members and $25 for nonmembers. Evening classes can be conducted by appointment. For more information, contact Peggy Gray, 474-5015.

Creative Writing every Friday at 3 p.m. for first to fifth graders and 4 p.m. for sixth to twelfth graders at the Payson Public Library Young Adults Room. Includes story prompts and positive peer interaction. To sign up or for more information, call Harryette at 474-9260.

Dinner Theater at MoJoe's Café on Main Street every Friday night (except First Friday) from 6 to 7 p.m. Back by popular request is Katherine Kelly, Jim West and the gang. (G rated fun!) Reservations required, 478-8828.

Saturday, October 23
Llama Treks in Strawberry from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by Fossil Creek Llamas and Payson Parks & Recreation. Cost is $70 per adult and $50 per child (includes a half-day hike and lunch).
You will be accompanied by a llama buddy who will carry your lunch and gear. For more information or to register, call 474-5242, ext. 7 or visit the Web site: www.paysonrimcountry.com. The Payson Church of Christ will have their

5th Annual “Winter Clothes Giveaway” from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Payson Church of Christ, 401 E. Tyler Parkway (across from KMOG). If you are in need of warm clothes for the winter months ahead, we are here to help. Child and adult sizes available. Donations of winter coats and winter clothes may be dropped off at the Oasis Christian Book Store, 512 S. Beeline Highway, Suite #1 or at the church building at 401 E. Tyler Parkway. For more information, call: (928) 970-0082.

Second Annual Fashion Show/Bake Sale/Silent Auction at the Pine Strawberry Thrift Shop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The fashion show will feature "holiday style fashions" at extremely affordable prices. The silent auction will have unique pieces and gift certificates from the local community. The community fundraiser is sponsored by the Pine Strawberry Thrift Shop. For information, call: 476-4633.

The 2nd Annual Rim Country Homebrewers Oktoberfest Club Event presents “Go Hog Wild” from noon to 5 p.m. at 6494 Randall Place in Pine. A family event featuring live music by the John Scott Band, prizes and giveaways, BBQ, lots of food and an incredible beer garden. Become a member today and join us for this Oktoberfest celebration. Must be a Rim Country Homebrewers (RCH) member to attend. $10 admission for ages 21 and under; $5 for ages 12 and under; free for ages 5 and under. (Youths must be accompanied by an RCH member). To obtain a membership, visit the Web site: www.rimcountryhomebrewers.com or call Mountaintop Brewery Supply at: 476-5743.

The Starlighters performs at Tiny's Restaurant, 600 E. Highway 260 every Saturday night from 5:30 to 8:30 pm. The music is from the "American Songbook" with a selection of tunes typically from Broadway musicals written by Cole Porter, Rodgers & Hart, George Gershwin, Jerome Kern and others along with more recent Bossanova tunes from Antonio Carlos Jobim/Luiz Bonfa and other Latin songwriters. Come and have some fun with us and dance if you wish to trip the light fantastic.

Adidam announcement: The Infinite Wisdom Series based on the life, work and teachings of Avatar Adi Da Samraj. “For those who would embrace a religious life based on heart-breaking freedom, I Am here.” For reservations, call 472-4700.

Sunday, October 24
Payson Center for Spiritual Awareness Sunday Celebration at 11 a.m., 107 W. Wade Lane, Suite 2. Guest speaker will be Lynn Brouwer, PhD.  Her topic is “Stepping Out in Spirit.”  Her talk is inspired by her own life adventures with her two daughters. Brouwer was led to travel west and ended up in Payson without a job or a home.  She relied on her faith in what was to become the next phase of her life.

Jam Sessions with Junction 87 at the Buffalo Bar & Grill, 311 S. Beeline Highway, every Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m.

Monday, October 25
Grief support group every first and third Monday of the month from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Hospice House, 511 S. Mud Springs Road. The free drop-in group sessions are for those who have experienced the death of a loved one. For more information, contact Jean Ramsey, 472-6340.

Payson Raconteurs writers group meets each Monday at 6 p.m. at a local restaurant. The association of local writers makes it possible for writers to read their work for critique. For further information, contact Carole Mathewson, 474-0753.

The Payson Chapter of Amnesty International will hold its regular meeting every third Monday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the East West Book Exchange, 100 N. Tonto Street. Amnesty International investigates and exposes abuses, educates and mobilizes the public and works to protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied. Join us as we define our local chapter and plan upcoming events to support human rights locally and globally. For more information, e-mail: PaysonAmnesty@gmail.com or call Penny Navis-Schmidt at 474-2391.

Tuesday, October 26
Rim Country Toastmasters meets every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Mogollon Health Alliance Auxiliary building next to the Almost New Shop at 304 E. Aero Drive. Networking at 5:30 p.m. The 60-minute meeting begins at 5:45 p.m. Find or refine your voice with us. Learn to persuade and inspire your audience, organize your speech, use vocal variety and overcome fear at the podium. For more information, contact: (928) 478-8820 or RimcountryTM@gmail.com.

Woman's Real Love Group meets at 6 p.m. at the Payson Center for Spiritual Awareness, 107 W. Wade Lane, Suite 2. The topic will be, “Understand how to have better relationships and attract unconditional love into your life.”  Julie Johnson is the "wise person" or facilitator of the group.

Wednesday, October 27

Pine Pre-school Story Time, every Wednesday at 10:15 a.m. in the Pine Public Library.  Includes puppet shows and stories for children ages three to five.

Kickin’ Cancer Support Group meets every first Wednesday of the month at noon at the Payson United Methodist Church, 414 N. Easy Street. Bring brown bag lunch.

Awana meets every Wednesday night from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ponderosa Baptist Church. The nationwide program for community children ages three through sixth grade includes Bible stories, memory verses and games. Contact Shirley Dye, 468-1131 or the church office, 474-9279 for more information and registration.

WEEKEND EVENTS
Payson Art League ARToberFEST will be held at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino on Friday, Oct. 22 from 5 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission. View fine art creations made by Rim Country artisans. Benefit raffle on Sunday afternoon. Fundraiser supports children’s Art Education projects. For more information, contact Trina Gunzel at 468-0732 or visit the Web site: www.paysonartleague.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Fudge and Salsa Sale at the Payson Regional Medical Center lobby on Thursday, Oct. 28 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fudge flavors include chocolate, walnut, maple, peanut butter with pecan caramel clusters, almond bark, cinnamon nuts, sweet roasted nuts and lots more.  Salsa flavors include garlic passion, just peachy pineapple, and chipotle black bean and corn, to name just a few!  Cash, credit and debit cards, and PRMC payroll deduction, accepted.  Proceeds will benefit programs and scholarships available through the Mogollon Health Alliance.  For more information, call (928) 472-2588.

Annual Halloween Trick or Treat Costume Parade at the Payson Public Library on Thursday, Oct. 28. There are two events: a Preschool Parade at 10 a.m. or an After School Parade at 4:30 p.m. Open to children of all ages; one event only. Sign up in the children’s room or for more information, call Harryette at 474-9260.

22nd Annual Tootsie Roll Drive sponsored by the Payson Council of the Knights of Columbus on Friday, Oct. 29 through Sunday, Oct. 31. Knights will be in front of Walmart, Safeway and Bashas’ with canisters to collect money for the Payson Special Olympics.

Because You’re Worth It: Taking Care of the Caregiver workshop for non-professional and professional caregivers to explore the importance of replenishing one’s inner resources and maintaining a balanced life, Saturday, Oct. 30 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. at the East West Exchange, 100 N. Tonto Steet.  Sponsored by Sojourner Support, LLC.  Cost: $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Tickets available at East West Exchange.  For more information, contact Evelyn at (602) 882-5197 or e-mail: dr.eve.az@cox.net.

Trunk-or-Treat Halloween Festival on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. on Main Street. Parks & Recreation will provide the candy for the costumed volunteers to distribute from their decorated booths on Main Street. Cost for booth space is $25. For more information, contact Deb Rose at: drose@paysonaz.gov or call: 474-5242 ext. 7.

Haunted House at Oxbow Saloon on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 6 to 9 p.m. Presented by the Payson High School drama department. Proceeds to benefit local food banks. Admission is $3 per person or $2 plus one can of food.

Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Freak Show Halloween Costume Contest & Party on Saturday, Oct. 30 from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Costume contest includes: Freakiest, Best Group, Funniest and Most Creative. $500 prize in each category and $1,000 prize for Best of Show. Rocklobster, an 80s retro tribute band will be the entertainment. Sign up for contest from 7:30 until 11:30 p.m. Judges will be from out of town. $10 ticket price (must be age 21 or older).

235th Anniversary Celebration of the U.S. Marine Corps will be held at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino on Saturday, Nov. 6. Social hour begins at 5 p.m. and dinner at 6 p.m. Guest speaker at 7 p.m. will be former Marine and official Arizona State Historian Marshall Trimble. Raffle and after-dinner listening and dance music to begin at 8 p.m. $35 per dinner. Attendees may select from two entrees: prime rib of beef or chicken Oscar. RSVP required. This event is sponsored by the Rim Country detachment of the Marine Corps league, “Payson Marines!” For additional information and/or to make reservations, call Marine Lee Bumbalow at 468-1095 or Colonel Bill Sahno at 472-6617.

Annual Meeting of the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce, sponsored by APS, will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Best Western Payson Inn, 801 N. Beeline Highway. Agenda items will include: financial review of the prior year; review of the year's activities; preview of 2011 activities; and presentation of the candidates for two seats on the Board of Directors. All chamber members are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact the chamber at: 474-4515.

14th Annual Chili Supper sponsored by PAWS to Benefit the Humane Society of Central Arizona on Tuesday, Nov. 9 at the Elks Lodge on Airport Road from 4 to 7 p.m. The PAWS in the Park organization built and helps to maintain the Off-Leash Dog Park. Cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children 12 and under. Enjoy an incredible meal of chili, macaroni and cheese, salad, rolls and homemade cupcakes. Tickets are available at the Humane Society Shelter, 812 S. McLane Road; Humane Society Thrift Store, 404 W. Main Street; the Payson Regional Chamber of Commerce, 100 W. Main Street; Payson Public Library, 328 N. McLane Road; and at the door. For more information, call the shelter at 474-5590; PAWS in the Park member, Donna Rokoff , 472-1542; or Humane Society volunteer, Betty Raveling at 468-7132.

The New Christy Minstrels, a Grammy award winning folk ensemble, will present their iconic stylings at the Payson High School Auditorium on Tuesday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m.  This is the third performance in the Tonto Community Concert Association’s concert season.  Season tickets are $80 and single admission tickets are $30 (if seating is available).  Children and youth, grades 12 and under, will be admitted free when accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.   For more information, visit the Web site : www.tccarim.org or call: (928) 978-4363 or 474-6115.

Jack H. Day’s 17th Annual Veterans Day Parade on Thursday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. in Punkin Center. Check-in time for all entrants is 10 a.m. Parade theme is Tonto Basin American Pride and Mom and Apple Pie. There will be five categories: overall, individual, military, commercial and civic. First place awards to be given out at the Marine League after the parade. Free entry fee, but donations to the detachment are appreciated. For entry forms and further information, contact Marine Norman J. Prather at: (623) 221-2240 or any member of the USMC League in Tonto Basin.

The 6th Annual Rim Country Quilt Roundup will be held Friday, Nov. 12 through Sunday, Nov. 14 at the Mazatzal Hotel & Casino Exhibition Hall. Room rates and Chamber of Commerce discount cards available. On Friday and Saturday, exhibition is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $3 or $2 with a can/package of non-perishable food for the local food banks. Free admission for children ages 12 and under. Features a regional quilt show, classes, vendor mall, Hoffman Challenge special exhibit and an AQS quilt appraiser. Classes will be held on Thursday, Nov. 11 through Saturday, Nov. 13. Deadline to register is Friday, Oct. 15. For more information, class registration and to obtain entry forms, call: (800) 672-9766 or 474-4515 or visit the Web site at: rimcountryquiltroundup.com.

High Country Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, Nov. 13 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Julia Randall Elementary School, 902 W. Main Street. Purchase handmade art and crafts, baked goods, a barbecue lunch and visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus!

Turkey Trot 5k Run on Saturday, Nov. 13 at 9 a.m. Join us for our annual 3.1 mile run beginning and ending at Green Valley Park. Check-in at 8 a.m. No t-shirt guarantee for late registrants. Day of registration available. Fee is $20 or $25 after Monday, Nov. 1. For more information, contact the Parks, Recreation & Tourism at (928) 474-5242 ext. 7 or visit the Web site: www.paysonrimcountry.com.

Annual Holly Berry Fair, hosted by the Payson Woman’s Club, will be held on Saturday, Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Buy lunch or baked goods. Arts and craft vendors are welcome. First come, first serve, as tables are limited. For more information, call Carole Fries: 478-6860.

Rim Country Briefs
Magic on the Mountain parade applications available
Be a part of Payson’s Magic on the Mountain Main Street Hometown Parade on Saturday, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.  The entry deadline is Friday, Nov. 19!  In celebration of our tenth year, all entries are only $10!  Applications are available on-line at the Web site: www.mainstreetparade.info or contact (928) 978-2538 or (602) 469-2611.

Tickets on sale for PAWS’ ‘hottest event’ chili supper
Tickets are now available for one of the “hottest” events on the calendar. The PAWS
organization will sponsor the 14th Annual Chili Supper on Tuesday, Nov. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 1206 N. Beeline Highway. Tickets are $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 12 and under. Proceeds to benefit homeless animals of the Rim Country. Tickets are available at the Humane Society Shelter, 812 S. McLane Road; Humane Society Thrift Shop, 404 W. Main Street; the Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce, 100 W Main Street; Payson Public Library, 328 N. McLane Road; and at the door. The raffle table will have the following items: Four Peaks amethyst ring from Payson Jewelers valued at $400, tickets available now for $5 for 6 tickets; “Gourmet on the Go” Adventure Basket; two tickets for a 30-minute flight with CAVU Aviation, $180 value; Tonto Natural Bridge Day Pass; a Longaberger Basket, $165 and St. Dalfour, ready-to-eat items, fruit spreads and more, $505 value, tickets are two for $5 or five for $10. Ticket holders do not need to be present to win. There will be a boutique in conjunction with the chili supper and raffles.

Win four Arizona Cardinals tickets
Would you like a chance to win four tickets to see an Arizona Cardinals game in Glendale? The Humane Society of Central Arizona has received a basket full of Cardinals’ goodies donated by Jim and Sue Lewin of Lewin & Associates, LLC. The basket, worth over $250, contains four Section 403 tickets to the Sunday, Dec. 5 match against the St. Louis Rams, a blue lot parking pass, plus official NFL Cardinals team logo items including four ball caps, four can cozies, and a game day tote bag. Also included are assorted snacks for your tailgating enjoyment. Raffle tickets are $25 each. The winner’s ticket will be drawn on Friday, Nov. 19 at the Humane Society Thrift Shop, 404 W. Main Street. Only 100 tickets will be sold and you need not be present to win. To purchase tickets or obtain more information, contact Betty Raveling at 468-7132, the Humane Society Shelter at 474-5590, or any HSCAZ Board member. Tickets will also be sold at the Community Health Fair on Saturday, Nov. 6, from 8 a.m. to noon.

New Hope Equine Rescue Christmas wreaths
Buy a Christmas wreath and help feed Bella and the other rescued horses and burros at New Hope Equine Rescue. The deadline for ordering is Friday, Nov. 12. Free delivery will be made from Monday, Dec. 6 through Friday, Dec. 10. Each decorated wreath, made with fresh evergreen boughs from Minnesota, comes with a hanger. With each purchase, a tree will be planted. For more information or to place an order, call Jean at (928) 978-5155 or Jennifer at 848-3139.