White Mountains Online Press Center

Our Press Center contains current news releases from our community and Sponsors, If you have information to share regarding an event or activity or general information for the public we would like to hear from you, you can email us or send us a fax to have your information displayed.

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT - Pinetop Game & fish To Help Spring Hunt ApplicantsPersonnel from the Pinetop Office of the Arizona Game & Fish Department will be available October 13 and 16 from 8:00am to 5:00pm, and on October 17 from 8:00am to 7:00pm, to assist huntors wishing to apply for spring hunts in 2001. All applications submitted by 5:00pm on October 13 will qualify for the error correction grace period. "What the grace period means to hunters is that if they make a mistake on the application, Game & fish will contact them for corrections so that their application will not be rejected," said Bruce Sitko, Regional information and Education Program Manager. A recent analysis of applications that were rejected uncovered many small, easily corrected errors that caused more than 12 percent of some 45,000 applications to be rejected last year. "The Department is committed to reducing the error rate," said Rory Aikens, Game & Fish Public Information Officer. "Arizona has a significant number of new hinters moving into the state each year. someone unfamiliar with the process here may have a difficult time. We want to assist them where possible, and make sure they will not be rejected because of errors on the application." Hunters are reminded that their applications for spring javelina, bear, turkey, and buffalo hints are due in Department offices no later than 7:00pm on Tuesday, October 17. Anyone having questions about the process can contact the Pinetop Game & Fish office at (520) 367-4291 for additional information

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT - Spring Hint Opportunities for JuniorsThe deadline to submit applications for spring hunts for 2001 is October 17, Applications for spring turkey, javelina, bear, and buffalo will be accepted up until 7:00pm at all Arizona Game & fish Department offices, advise Department officials. Hint tags will e mailed out by November 24. spring hunts also offer several exclusive hinting opportunities for youth. "Juniors-Only javelina and spring turkey hunts provide an excellent opportunity for a parent to introduce their young boy or girl to hunting, or to further refine their hinting skills," notes Bruce Sitko, Information & Education Program Manager in the Pinetop regional office. Sitko encourages parents to strongly consider taking advantage of juniors' hunts. "It's a great time to shake the winter doldrums, and spend some quality time outdoors with your youngster, passing on the tradition of ethical hunting to the next generation." There are 530 juniors-only javelina permits available throughout Arizona for this coming spring. According to Sitko, for the last few years there have been numerous left over tags for the juniors hunt. The junior-only javelina hunts will be February 9 to 15 in Units 19B, 20C, 24 & 36 C. there are also 180 spring turkey permits available to juniors, with units 1, 3C, and 27. Juniors-only applicants must be between the ages of 10 & 17. Those between 10 & 13 must have satisfactorily completed the Arizona Hinters Education Class prior to going afield. Hint permit applications and regulations are available at each Game & fish department office. They can also be obtained at Game & Fish license dealers throughout the state, or from the department's web site at www.gf.state.az.us Many programs of the Arizona Game & Fish department are supported in whole or part by federal funds that require public notification of the provisions of Title the 1964 Civil Rights Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These acts VI of prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color , national origins, or handicap. If you believe that you have been discriminated against, you may write to: The Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of Interior, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D.C. 20240. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need this material in an alternative format or believe you have been discriminated against, contact the Deputy Director, Arizona Game & Fish Dept., 2221 W. Greenway Road, Phoenix AZ 85023 (602) 942-3000

1. Always star in control and be able to stop or avoid people or objects
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is you responsibility to avoid them.
3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings, Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
7. Prior to using any lift, you must have knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

There are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Know the code. It's your responsibility. This is a partial list. Be Safety conscious

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE - Petrified forest National Park Announces A Change In HoursEffective October 8, 2000, Petrified forest National Park will change the hours of operation. The new hours will be 7:00am to 5:30 pm Mountain Standard Time, The painted Desert Inn National Historic Landmark hours will remain the same as present, 8:00am to 4:00pm. Long Logs Trail will close at 5:00pm. and Giant Logs Trail will close at 5:15pm. These hours will remain in effect until November 5, 2000 when they will change to winter hours of 8:00am to 5:00. Daily Ranger Activities will still be available on a scaled down basis. These programs are posted on the Painted Desert Visitor Center and the Rainbow Forest Museum bulletin boards, check there for time, places and topics. Additional information can be obtained by calling the park (520)524-6228 daily during park hours or by writing Superintendent. Petrified Forest National Park, P.O. Box 2217, Petrified Forest, AZ 86028

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE - Petrified forest National Park Reports A Decrease In Visitation For august, 2000"Petrified Forest National Park had 77,469 visitor to the park during August, 2000. This is a decrease of 14.2% over August 1999 when the visitation was 90,373. the year to date total is also down. total visitation for 2000 is 461,816 compared to 503,298 for 1999. This is a decrease of 8.2%" said Michele Hellickson, Park superintendent. A variety of daily Ranger conducted activities will continue through the fall and winter months. check at rainbow Forest Museum and Painted Desert Visitor Center for a schedule of What, When and where. want a little adventure in you life? check out the Gateway Stewardship Volunteer Program at Petrified Forest National Park, Discover the globally significant geology paleontology, and historic resources in your own back yard. the park is recruiting for uniformed volunteer positions. volunteers will explore these fascination subjects, and share this knowledge with park visitors. the first training session will be October 23, 2000. To become a Gateway Steward or for more information, contact Pat Thompson or Paula Branstner at (520) 524-6228. The environmental Education Program at Petrified Forest has two programs for school aged students. Fascinating fossil Factory and Science in Our Parks. "Science in Our Parks" is designed for grades 4-6th. It involves classroom lessons and field trip opportunities where students conduct mini-scientific research projects at the Petrified Forest. "Fascinating Fossil factory is designed for grades 3-6th and centers around the Triassic environment including a field trip to the park to do a "fossil dig" with a ranger. Any teacher that wishes to have his/her class participate in either of these programs must attend a teachers workshop scheduled for October 21-22, 2000 at the Petrified Forest. contact Michael Struckey at (520) 524-6228 weekdays, 8:00am to 4:00 pm. Mountain Standard Time, or by writing to the superintendent, Petrified Forest National Park, P.O. Box 2217. Petrified Forest, AZ 86028

SUNRISE PARK RESORT Experience Fall Colors at Sunrise Park Resort.White Mountains, Arizona - The beauty of the White Mountains is getting more colorful as the mountain foliage turns yellow and orange. The Aspen are about ready to change color, an annual event in the White Mountains. Sunrise Park Resort offers scenic lift rides and an opportunity ti experience the fall colors every Saturday and Sunday through October 15th from 10:00AM to 4:00PM. Prices for the lift rides are $4.00/children 12 & under and $8.00 for adults. Mountain bikers are also allowed to use the lift with special carriers mounted on the chairs to carry their bikes. Mountain Bike tickets are $15.00 for a full day. To add value the sunrise Park Lodge, a 100 room full service lodge overlooking Sunrise Lake, is offering a fall package which includes complimentary full breakfast and scenic lift ride tickets for two. Room rates start at $59.00 and the package will be offered through the 15th of October. Lee Valley Stables is also in full swing offering a variety of horseback rides including one hour, two-hour and half day rides. A popular ride during the fall is a full day ride up Mount Baldy, which is one of the tallest peaks in eastern Arizona. Advanced reservation are required for the hotel package and the stable recommends calling and booking trail rides in advance. Lee Valley Stable can be reached at (520) 735-7454 and the Sunrise Park Lodge (800) 772-7669 The Fall Festival is scheduled for September 22, 23, and 24 in Pinetop/Lakeside. Events include Parade, Car Show, Chorale Pop Concert, Bike, 10k run, 2 mile run, Antique Show, Car show and lots of arts and crafts. This is the 25th Annual Fall Festival and is a great time for the whole family. for more information contact the Pinetop/Lakeside chamber at (520) 367-4290. Sunrise Park Resort is owned and operated by the white Mountain Apache Tribe and is only a four hour drive from Phoenix and Tucson. for more information about sunrise please call (800) 772-7669 or visit the Sunrise web site at www.sunriseskipark.com

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT - Information Sought Mule Deer Poaching The Arizona Game & Fish Department is requesting information from the public that could help solve the poaching of a mule deer doe that occurred in the Alpine area recently. Sadly, the doe's carcass was found with her live fawn nearby. According to information & Education Program Manager Bruce Sitko, a fawn's chance of survival without the mother's protection are extremely low. Sitko Said, "The Department needs a responsible citizen to come forward with information regarding this crime. We need the public's help to protect out wildlife by stopping poachers." To report Information on this, or any Game & Fish violation, call 1-800-352-0700. You may remain anonymous, and are eligible to receive a reward of $250 or more for information leading to the arrest of the person(s) responsible for killing this deer. Information may also be given directly to the Pinetop regional Game & Fish Office at 2878 E. White Mountain Blvd., or by calling the office at (520) 367-4281. Many programs of the Arizona Game & Fish department are supported in whole or part by federal funds that require public notification of the provisions of Title the 1964 Civil Rights Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These acts VI of prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color , national origins, or handicap. If you believe that you have been discriminated against, you may write to: The Office of Equal Opportunity, U.S. Department of Interior, Office of the Secretary, Washington, D.C. 20240. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need this material in an alternative format or believe you have been discriminated against, contact the Deputy Director, Arizona Game & Fish Dept., 2221 W. Greenway Road, Phoenix AZ 85023 (602) 942-3000

Please join Petrified Forest National Park in celebrating out National Park Service birthday. Entrance fees will be waived and ranger programs will be presented throughout the day. Telephone for information on other Founder's Day event by calling (520) 524-6228. Park hours are currently 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE - Petrified forest Announces "FEE - FREE DAY" On August 25, 1916, President Woodrow Wilson established the National Park Service. to celebrate this important date, Congress authorized the National Park Service to suspend the collection of entrance fees to all National Park Service areas each August 25. Petrified forest National Park joins other national parks, monuments, memorials, historic sites and recreation areas in the United States, to commemorate " Founder's Day".

Please join Petrified Forest National Park in celebrating out National Park Service birthday. Entrance fees will be waived and ranger programs will be presented throughout the day. Telephone for information on other Founder's Day event by calling (520) 524-6228. Park hours are currently 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

ARIZONA GAME AND FISH DEPARTMENT - Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Program Update July 24 - August 7, 2000 . This is a brief summary of current information about the Mexican wolf reintroduction program for the interested public. Additional information can be obtained by calling (505) 248-6664

This reintroduction is a multi agency cooperative effort with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Arizona Game & Fish Department, New Mexico Game & Fish Department, USDA - Wildlife, and U.S. Forest Service.

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation White Mountain Chapter Sets Banquet Date

The White Mountain Chapter of the Rocky Mountain Elk foundation will hold its Annual Bug Game Banquet and Auction at the Hon-Dah Convention Center on Saturday, August 19, 2000

The Rocky Mountain Elk foundation is an international, nonprofit wildlife organization dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, and their habitats. With over 115,000 active members and about 475 local chapters throughout North America, the RMEF had generated more than $70 million to conserve and enhance more than 2.7 million acres of wildlife habitat.

Although the foundation is only 15 years old, it has already funded more than 2,000 critical wildlife and habitat conservation projects throughout the U.S. and Canada. More than 75 of those projects have been located in eastern Arizona. Examples include management-related research, habitat acquisitions, habitat improvement projects, and conservation education programs. RMEF also publishes a bimonthly magazine, Bugle - the only major national publication devoted exclusively to elk.

The White Mountain Chapter conducts an annual banquet which features a social hour and dinner, followed by a lively benefit auction and raffle. The White Mountain Chapter consists of local volunteers who are concerned about the future of wildlife and wildlife habitat in the White Mountains and Arizona. Since their inception in 1985, the Chapter has raised over $250,000 at their annual banquets, which has funded numerous wildlife habitat improvement projects in the white Mountains.

Committee Chair Jim Wood announced that registration and viewing of this year's banquet items will begin at 3:00 P.M., the social hour at 5:00P.M., the dinner and program at 6:00P.M., followed by the auction and raffles at 7:30P.M.. the fundraising auction will feature all types of outdoor gear and artwork including hunting and fishing equipment, such as rifles and archery equipment, outstanding limited-edition wildlife prints and bronze sculptures, women's fine jewelry, and many other top-quality items. Proceeds from the evening event will benefit Rocky Mountain Elk foundation habitat conservation projects in the White Mountains and other areas throughout the country.

Individual tickets are $60.00. The ticket includes one meal and a one-year RMEF membership that includes a subscription to the "Bugle" magazine. Couples tickets are $90.00. The couples ticket includes two meals and a one-year RMEF membership. For reservations and additional information, please contact either Jim Wood at 520-337-2679 or Sandy Vahle at 520-369-0138

Pinetop Lakeside Fire Restrictions - June 30th. Effective june 30th., the fire restrictions on charcoal grills have been lifted for the pinetop fire district. if the weather conditions continue, the ban on open burning will be lifted on July 3rd. All prior burn permits for the Pinetop Fire District have been cancelled, therefore effective Monday, July 3rd., any person interested in an open burn permit will have to come to the Pinetop Fire Department located at 1845 Pine Lake Road to obtain a new permit. for further information you can call 367-2002

Date: June, 1, 2000

For Immediate Release: FOREST CLOSURES, AND FIRE AND SMOKING RESTRICTIONS HAVE BEEN EXPANDED ON THE FORT APACHE RESERVATION

(Whiteriver, Arizona)-Ken Butler, Fire Management Officer, Bureau of Indian Affairs, announced that in addition to the forest closures and other fire and smoking restrictions which were imposed on May 30, the following additional restrictions will begin Friday June 2,2000. NO CAMPFIRES will be permitted on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation. Only the following areas will be open to the general public: All areas east of Highway 73 are open to access. Campfires are NOT permitted in any campground. Only propane or gas stoves may be used. Camping is permitted in the following developed campgrounds: Such Bezahze Lake (Little Bear Lake), Sush Be Tou Lake (Big Bear Lake), Lower Log of North Fork, Upper Log of North Fork, Horseshoe Lake, Paradise park, Ditch Camp, A-1 Lake, Sunrise Lake, Hawley Lake, Cyclone Lake, (rent-a-lake), Hurricane Lake (rent-a-lake) Reservation Lake, Drift Fence Lake, Pacheta Lake, and Christmas Tree Lake (Fish Camp Only) The following primitive campsites are open. Only propane or gas stoves are allowed. Open campfires of charcoal stoves are not permitted. Lower Big Bonito Creek, Upper Big Bonito Creek, Tonto Lake (Tribal Members only), Rattle Snake Point, Ten of Diamonds, White Crossing, Military Crossing, Tick Flat, Black River Crossing, Buzzard Hole, Salt River, and Gleason Flat. The following areas were closed to entry by the general public effective May 30, 2000: 1. All areas west of Highway 60 are closed except to people living or working in the area. This includes Canyon Creek, Cibecue Creek, Chediski Farm, Iron Mine and all access south from the Rim Road (USFC road number 300) 2. All areas east of Highway 60 over to Highway 73 are closed except to people living or working in the area. This includes Bootleg Lake, Dry Valley, the Cedar Creek drainage's, and all access south from the Rim Road (USFS road number 300) Smoking restrictions went into effect on May 12. Persons who are smoking must remain in a closed vehicle, structure or within a cleared area in a designated camp site area. Open burning will not be permitted on the reservation until further notice. The Tribal Fire and Rescue Department will not issue burn permits until the current fire conditions improve. Sunrise dances, sweat lodges and wakes will be permitted to have camp fires in maintained fire pits. Everyone is urged to use extreme caution when traveling in the forests and to abide by the fire restrictions. For more information concerning fire restrictions contact the Fire Dispatch Office at (520) 338-5325. For information on camping contact the Tribal Wildlife and Outdoor Recreation Division at (520)-338-4385.

ORDER CLOSURE OF APACHE-SITGREAVES NATION FOREST Pursuant to title 36 code of Federal Regulations, Section 261.50 (a) and/or (b), and Section 261.52 (e) the following acts are prohibited to the area, roads and trails described in the order*within the Apache-Sitgreaves national Forest until further notice. Because of high fire hazard, the following is prohibited except as below: (1) Going into or being upon an area. 36 CFR 261.52(e) Pursuant to 36 CFR 26.1 (e), the following persons are except from this order: (1) persons with a permit, specifically authorizing the otherwise prohibited act or omission. (2) Any Federal, State or local officer, or member of an organized rescue or fire fighting force in the performance of an official duty. (3) owners of lessees of land in the area (Ingress and Egress Only) (4) Persons engaged in business or trade occupation in the area. This order becomes effective at 08:00, Thursday June, 08, 2000 and will remain in effect until rescinded. *This order affects the (see attached maps), apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Done at Springerville, Arizona the 6th day or June, 2000. John C Bedell Forest Supervisor Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Information concerning this order can be obtained at the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest Dispatchers office in Springerville, Arizona at telephone number (520) 333-4417

VIOLATION OF THIS PROHIBITION IS PUNISHABLE BY A FINE OF NOT MORE THAN $5,000.00 FOR INDIVIDUALS AND $10,000.00 FOR ORGANIZATIONS OR IMPRISONMENT OF NOT MORE THEN SIX (6) MONTHS, OR BOTH. PURSUANT TITLE 16 USC SECTION 551.

Pinetop-Lakeside Fire Restrictions
Office of the Mayor, received 5-30-00

Proclamation

Whereas, the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside and surrounding areas are currently experiencing extremely dry conditions; and

Whereas, the threat and danger of fire is prevalent throughout the Town and surrounding areas; and

WHEREAS, the Vice Mayor of the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, do herby proclaim that an emergency does exist and that the following restrictions are effective until such time as the fire danger abates:

1. No building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or charcoal burning device on any property within the Town of Pinetop-Lakeside. Petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices are exempt.

2. No smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, residential yard, or while stopped in an area at least three (3) feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of flammable materials, and all cigarettes will be properly extinguished.

3. No entry into posted restricted access areas in the Town limits, specifically in certain areas within the Woodland Lake Park area.

4. Any additional restrictions imposed by other state or local agencies which are stricter than the above items 1 and 2' with the following exceptions: A: Persons with a permit issued by other state or local governmental agencies. B. Any federal, state, or local officer or member of any organized firefighting force in the performance of an official firefighting duty.

Those persons violating this ban on open fires and smoking will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Signed by B.C. Irwin

PORTIONS OF FOREST TO CLOSE Springerville, AZ. The Forest Service announced today that portions of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests will be closed to public entry starting Wednesday, May 24, 2000, due to the extreme fire danger, The areas identified for closure are intended to protect communities that are highly susceptible to forest fires. Tom Beddow, Fire and Aviation Staff Officer on the Apache-Sitgreaves, said that the closures are the right thing to do in light of the recent experiences in New Mexico where hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed by wildfire. "The areas to be closed are generally upwind of communities and will provide more of a defensible space around them," he said, "We have purposely kept all of our recreation sites open so these closures should not be viewed as discouraging visitors to the Forests but rather a means to help ensure their safety and the health of the forest," he added. Areas to be closed include the forest 1) around Alpine, 2) south and west of Nutrioso, 3) east of Greer, 4) southwest of Show Low, 5) in the undeveloped portion of the Woodland Lake tract, and 6) south of Forest Lakes. No entry will be allowed unless it is to access private land within the closed area or for persons with a permit engaged in business in the area. The Promontory Butte area southwest of Bear Canyon Lake was closed earlier "We hope that we do not have to add more areas to this closure but that is an option for us in the future," Beddow said. Other National Forests in Arizona and New Mexico are also closing portions of the forest with the Lincoln National Forest closing all areas on that Forest. The Lincoln has experienced two large wildfires in recent weeks that have devastated huge portions of the Forest. Beddow said that these closures are likely to remain in effect until the summer rains start. The Apache-Sitgreaves has beefed up its suppression forces with the addition of 5 Forest. Service engines from California and Oregon, 2 contract dozers, 2 hand crews from the Fort Apache Agency, and an airplane assigned for surveillance and aerial coordination. The State of Arizona has funded a helicopter to be stationed at Heber while the Forest Service has funded the helitack crew in a joint effort to keep any wildfires to a small size, "We're asking residents and visitors to help us in our fire prevention campaign," Beddow said. "Remember that campfires are allowed in developed campgrounds only and that most of the National Forest is still open for camping, hiking, fishing, or just sight-seeing," he said.

Fire and Smoking Restrictions on the Reservation

Open burning will not be permitted on the Fort Apache Reservation until further notice. The White Mountain Apache Fire and Rescue Department will not issue burn permits until the current fire conditions improve. Sunrise dances, sweat lodges and wakes will be permitted to have camp fires in maintained fire pits.

Ken Butler Fire Management Officer of Bureau of Indian Affairs, announced that fire and smoking restrictions will begin on Friday, May 12 2000 for primitive and designated camp sites. Open camp fires will not be permitted in primitive campsites, propane stoves may be used in the following areas: Rattle Snake Point, Ten of Diamonds, White Crossing, Military Crossing, Lower Big Bonito, Upper Big Bonito, Tick Flat, Black River Crossing, Buszzard hole, Salt River, Gleason Flat, Chediski Farm and Iron Mine.

Camp fires will be permitted at designated campgrounds in established fire rings only. Fires must be ut completely out before leaving the area. The following are designated campgrounds: Shush Bezahze Lake, Shush Be Tou Lake, Lower Log of North Fork, Upper Log of North Fork, horseshoe Lake, Paradise Park, Ditch Camp, A_! Lake, Sunrise Lake, Hawley Lake, Reservation Lake, Drift Fence Lake, and Pacheta Lake

Smoking restrictions will also go into effect on May 12,. Persons who are smoking must remain in a closed vehicle, structure or within a designated camp site area.

Industrial fire restrictions have not been imposed at this time, however warming fires are not permitted.

According to George Leech, BIA Fire Training Officer, there have been 80 fires this year on the reservation which have burned over 600 acres. Normally 15-20 fires would have occurred during the same time with approximately ten acres being burnid.

For more information regarding fire restrictions contact the Fire Dispatch Office at 520 338-5325: for campground information contact the Tribal Wildlife and Outdoor Recreation Division at 520 338-4385

Navajo County Open Burning Ordinance

The Navajo County Open Burning Ordinance will go into effect this Friday May 12th at midnight when the USFS imposed full fire restrictions on the Apache Sitgraves National Forest. The ordinance prohibits wood and charcoal barbecue fires anywhere within the unincorporated area. However, gas barbecues are exempt and are allowed. Local fire personnel and the Navajo County Sheriffs Office will be strictly enforcing the ordinance. There are criminal and civil penalties of $100 to $300 for each violation of the Open Burning Ordinance.

We are asking citizens in unincorporated areas to assist us in monitoring any open fires during these volatile wildfire conditions. Please report any open burning or fires to the Navajo County Sheriffs Office, local law enforcement agency or directly to your local fire district, said Paul Jaster of Navajo County emergency Services.

Any questions on the Navajo County Open Burning Ordinance #10-99 please contact the Navajo County Emergency Services Department at 520 524-4250

Festival Of Hope

On Saturday , June 3, 2000 the communities of the White Mountains are holding the first Festival of Hope. The Festival is providing, Free medical, dental, clothing, lunch, groceries (35,000 - 40,000 pounds to be given away), hair cuts, auto diagnosis , and a variety of services (immunizations, alcoholic counseling, diabetes screening, Women's clinic, clinics with professional athletes and activities for teenagers. We are planning a very festive atmosphere on the grounds of the Show Low High School, which will include face painting, cotton candy, entertainment, a jumping Castle, Rock Climbing Wall, and a Sumo Wrestler game for all to enjoy.

The Festival is sponsored by local companies, corporations, and churches, and is staffed by volunteers, We are expecting 4,000 - 5,000 guests during the seven hours of the Festival each guest will be hosted by a volunteer who will take them thought the Festival and help them to meet whatever need they may have.

We would like to invite your company to share as a foundational participant in this outreach to our community. In return for your support, you will be listed among the sponsors on all of our advertising and promotional materials for the Festival, which will include T-shirts, posters, flyers, radio and television advertisements. We will also provide you with a tax-deductible certificate issued by Operation Blessing Arizona a registered and incorporated 501 corporation.

Please consider being part of this community-based outreach as we share tangible help with people of the Whit Mountains. We are accepting cash contributions to offset the expense of shipping food, security and advertising costs. We also need service goods such as bags, food or other courtesy items to help us conveniently serve the thousands of people who will attend the Festival.

The heart motive behind the Festival is the help meet the need of the hurting in our community, to show them that, by joining together, we are capable of helping and loving those in need. For more information or if you can help with this project please call Kara Helland 367-1998 or Mary Atterberry 532-8592.

Snowflake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Pinhead Hill has been selected as the site of the Snowflake Temple. The plan is for a 15,000 square foot building , one of the first of a new design for smaller temples. It is not known when groundbreaking is said Snowflake State President Stephen Reidhead. The Snowflake Planning an Zoning Commission has scheduled a public hearing at 8 pm. May 16th, at the town hall to consider a special use permit to allow construction of the temple in the area, which is currently zoned residential 10,000 square foot minimum.

Wolf Reintroducttion Update May 5, 2000

Hawks Nest Pack

This pack has largely remained in their usual territory around the Campbell Blue and Beaver Creek drainages. Recently they also explored the Williams Valley area. The pack is successfully killand and feeding on elk. Two wolves wre observed chasing an adult elk in the Williams Valley area. Field staff has confirmed that at least two pups are still alive.

Gavilan Yearling

Several sighting reports of this male have been received. Project staff have followed up with aerial flights and ground tracking, but have not yet confirmed his location.

Cienega Pack

This pack of four, two alpha adults and two of their pups born last spring, continues to explore the area around their release pen. They have been located about a mile east of Hannagan Meadows and also in KP Creek.

Mule Pack

The Mule pack chewed out of a mesh pen, designed for that purpose, during the last week of March. After their release in the Gila Wilderness, the pack remained in the area around their release pen near Lily Park for about one week. On April 13, the alpha male and tow yearling males were located by aerial telemetry on private ranch approximately five miles east of Cliff, NM, some 25 air miles from their release site. The alpha female has remained in the Lily Park area, and here movements suggest she is tending pups in a den. Trapping efforts for the three males have been underway since April 16. Project staff will attempt to renuite the alpha male with his mate.

Pipstem Pack

The Pipstem pack was transferred into the Gila Wilderness by mules on April 4th, and placed in a mesh pen in the Halfmoon Park area. On April 15, the field personnel opened the gate on the pen. The pack has remained in the area around their release pen. The alpha female was pregnant at the time of the transfer. On April 27th, one of the yearling frmales was located approximately 20 miles away from her pack on Forest Service land near Alma, NM. This wolf appears to be subordinate to the other pack members, which may be a factor in why she has left the pack.

The public can call toll-free number at 888 459-9653 to report suspected livestock incidents or take or harassment of wolves.

Petrified Forest National Park And The National Park Service Announce the New "National Parks Pass"

The National Park Service is pleased to announce a new annual pass, specific to national parks. This pass, the National Parks Pass, will go on-sale beginning April 18, 2000, during National Park Week, ".

The National Park Pass will be sold for $50.00 at Petrified Forest National Park and other parks around the country, Online at www.nationalparks.org and tollfree at 1-888-go-parks. Pass holders get free admission for one year from purchase to all national parks.

There are 379 parks in the National Park System, receiving over 265 Million visits annually. The National Park Service is composed of more than 20,000 park rangers, archaeologists, historians, biologists, architects, protection officers and other professionals who care for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

More information is available regarding special activities in Petrified Forest National Park by calling (520) 524-6628

10th Annual Fishing Derby In Greer

April 15 - May 13, Free Fishing Lessons with Bob Hirsoh, Lon Ellington and Ron Lee Thomas. $3.00 to enter, four Categories, Mens, Women, 13-18 year olds, and under 13 year olds. Trophies & Prizes in all catagories.Call Circle B Market 1-520-735-7540 for more information.

Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Program Update February 29th - March 28, 2000

This is a brief summary of current information about the Mexican wolf reintroduction program for the interested public. Additional information can be obtained by calling 505 248-6664.

Campbell Blue Pack

On February 19, a new mate for Campbell Blue male was brought to the Engineer Springs pen along with two of her female pups born last spring. The male was located by the pen every day upon their arrival. On March 19, the female was released from the pen to facilitate bonding of the pair before releasing the two pups. The pair stayed near the pen for several days, then moved west towards Eagle Creek. They continue the explore together and were located near the Bear Wallow Wilderness on March 27th.

Mule Pack

On March 17, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service signed a Finding of No Significant Impact on the Environmental Assessment for the Translocation of Mexican Wolves throughout the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area In Arizona/New Mexico. On March 23, the Mule Pack was captured at the Sevilleta Refuge, and transferred by mules to Gila Wilderness in New Mexico. They were released into a mesh pen in Creel Canyon on March 24. The alpha female is pregnant, and expected to whelp during the first week of April. The pack is scheduled to be released from the pen this week to allow the female to select her own den site.

Hawks Nest Pack

This pack has largely remained in their usual territory around the Campbell Blue and Beaver Creek drainages. Recently they also explored the Williams Valley area. The pack is successfully killing and feeding on elk. Two wolves were observed chasing an adult elk in the Williams Valley area. Field staff has confirmed that at least two pups are still alive.

Gavilan Yearling

This male, which will be two years old this spring, continues to explore on his own. During the past month, the field team has been unable to locate him using ground and aerial telemetry. On March 23, a large canid, with a yellow radio collar, was reported as being seen just south of Datil, NM. Field staff found large canid tracks following elk tracks in the area, however, no radio-telemetry signals were detected by ground or by air. Thus, confirmation of the yearling's presence cannot be made.

Cienega Pack

Two adult wolves and three of their pups born last spring were transferred from Wolf Haven International, a Mexican wolf facility in Washington, into the Blue Range Primitive Area on March 14. On March 25 one pup was found dead on Hwy. 191 north of Hannigan Meadow. The pack stayed in the Hannagan Meadow area for a few days but has since returned to the Steeple Creek pen site.

Petrified Forest National Park Reports a Decrease in Visitation

The visitation to the Petrified Forest National Park is down for January, 2000 by 6.9% over the same time period in 1999. In 2000, we had 23,556 visitors compared to the 1999 visitation of 24,791, reported Michele Hellickson, Park Superintendent.

This winter season has been unseasonably warm, making fewer closures due to ice and snow necessary. Visiting the Petrified Forest National Park in winter can be very enjoyable, especially without the summer crowds. We encourage visitors not to just visit the park but to experience it. Park Rangers present several activities each day that may be of interest to you. Check at the Rainbow Forest Museum and Painted Desert Visitor Center for schedules of Ranger programs.

Petrified Forest National Park is now on winter hours, open 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m.. Mountain Standard Time. Rainbow Forest Museum and Painted Desert Visitor Center are open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Painted Desert Inn National Historical Landmark is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Petrified Forest National Park is located east of Holbrook, Arizona and can be entered from south via Highway 180 or from the north on Interstate (exit #311). Come experience the park's diverse stories of geology, archeology, paleontology, biology and history.

Additional information can be obtained by calling (520) 524-6228 weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time, or by writing to the Superintendent, Petrified Forest National Park, P.O. Box 2217, Petrified Forest, AZ 86028

Music Sunday at Wilderness Baptist Church ~ Vernon
Click here for details!

Mexican Wolf Reintroduction Update

February 15-28, 2000 ~ This is a brief summary of current information about the Mexican Wolf reintroduction for the interested public. Additional copies of this update and other information can be obtained by calling (505)248-6664 or (520)367-4281, or by visiting our website. Call the toll-free number at (888)459-9653 to report suspected livestock depredation or incidents of take or harassment of wolves. The reintroduction is a multi-agency cooperative effort (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Arizona Game and Fish Dept., New Mexico Dept. of Game & Fish, USDA-Wildlife Services, U.S. Forest Service).

Field Activities

Campbell Blue Pack (M166) ~ new in acclimation pen=F518, F592, F594. F222, the potential mate for M166, was returned to captivity on February 16. She had been released from the Engineer Springs pen on January 5, but was returned to the pen because she began interacting with dogs at a nearby hunters camp. She was re-released after the hunting season on February 6, but quickly began interacting with ranch dogs near Eagle Creek. M166 had attempted to remain near her during both releases, and was not involved in the interactions with dogs. On February 19, a new potential mate and two of her female pups that were born last spring were transferred to the Engineer Springs acclimation pen from Sevilleta Refuge. M166 has been located by the pen every day since their arrival.

Hawks Nest Pack (M131, F486 + pups 600, 601, 602 - genders unknown): The pack has largely remained in their usual territory around Campbell Blue and Beaver Creek drainages. The pack is successfully killing and feeding on elk. The field staff has confirmed that at least two pups are still alive.

Gavilan Yearling (M555): The yearling (he will be 2 years old this spring) continues to explore on his own. He has been located in the Gila National Forest near Snow Lake, New Mexico, and recently in the Collins Park area. Field staff witnessed the yearling attack a cow elk. However, before personnel could confirm the death of the elk, the yearling moved off. On February 22, a rancher reported a domestic cow on O Bar O Canyon had been bitten around the ears, head and tail. Wildlife Services investigated the complaint but could not positively confirm what kind of animal was responsible for the attack. During the past two weeks, the field team has been unable to locate the yearling using ground and aerial telemetry. The depredation was referred to Defenders of Wildlife as a "possible wolf". The cow is expected to recover. Field staff continues to search for M555.

Petrified Forest National Park Celebrates
Arizona Archaeology Awareness Month

"Petrified Forest National Park will join in the statewide celebration of Arizona Archaeology Awareness Month. Ranger guided programs and activities will be offered throughout the month, highlighting the significant archaeological and historical stories of Petrified Forest Nation Park. Trails to the Past is this year's theme. Many trails that have passed through here over time - dinosaurs, American Indians, explorers, railroads, historic Route 66, tourists, and Interstate 40, to name just a few. Join us in celebrating the heritage of the Southwest," stated Michele Hellickson, Park Superintendent.

Ranger conducted walks will be presented each Wednesday at Puerco Pueblo from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Native American cultural demonstrations of pottery making, basket weaving, silversmithing, wood-carving and rug weaving will be presented on Fridays at the Painted Desert Inn. There will be a visit from the Winslow chapter of the Harvey Girls on Saturday, March 18. Pioneer skills of spinning and weaving will be featured on March 15. Demonstrations will begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude at 3:00 p.m. Check the program boards at the Painted Desert Visitor Center and the Rainbow Forest Museum for listings of additional programs, times and locations.

Skiing in Arizona

Dated: January 5, 2000
Bill London
Sunrise Marketing Department

White Mountains Arizona ~ If you're thinking of skiing don't forget Arizona's Sunrise Park Resort in the White Mountains. Skiers and snowboarders alike are enjoying the slopes of Sunrise Park, which opened on December 26th. The terrain open for skiing and riding is limited to midway but snow coverage and skiing is rated good to excellent.

"Our skiing is surprisingly good right now; we just wish there was more of it." said Chris Shellabarger, Sunrise Park General Manager. "We've reduced our ticket price and the feedback from our skiers and boarders has been great."

Lack of snowfall and dry winter conditions have been plaguing many of the ski areas in the Southwest and many areas have been struggling to get open. Sunrise Park is the only Arizona ski resort, which has been open so far this season. "Snow-making is the primary reason we are open for skiing right now," said Bob McDonald, Sunrise Park Mountain Manager. "We're not getting the natural snow and are depending upon the snow we make to get our trails open." Crews are making snow to the top of Sunrise Peak and hope to have a trail from the top ready to open soon.

Lift tickets are $19.00/adult and $12/junior. Lodging is available at the Sunrise Park Lodge with rates starting from $59.00.

Sunrise Park Resort is owned and operated by the White Mountain Apache Tribe and is only a four-hour drive from Phoenix and Tucson.

For more information about Sunrise park please call (800) 772-7669 or visit the Sunrise website at www.sunriseskipark.com.

Copyright White Mountains Online 2000. All rights reserved.
Updated: March 28, 2000.

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