Press Coverage December 2019
‘LPBW’: While Amy there for good.” Anyway, lifestyle, while Caryn’s out enjoying the LPBW patriarch’s not likely to the wilderness? Do you think that Settles Into Her do that just yet. And even if he does, Matt Roloff really cares for two of New Home, Caryn Zach’s around to continue the family the most diverse people possible? operation. While Matt and Caryn Sound off your thoughts in the Chandler Enjoys often base in Surprise, they also comments below. White Tank enjoy getting out and about in the state. Remember to check back with TV Mountain Regional Shows Ace often for more news Park Caryn explores the wilderness trails about the cast of TLC’s LPBW. in White Tank Mountain Regional December 30, 2019 Run, Patrick, run: Park News, Reality TV, TLC Shows Taking to her Instagram this Savannah’s Patrick
weekend, Caryn shared that she and LPBW fans know that Amy Roloff Reagan is a national her daughter went off to explore the got engaged to Chris Marek, and cactus lined trails. We don’t know if champion she’s moving into her new home in Matt went along as well. We do town. Meanwhile, Matt and Caryn ultrarunner know that Matt never really enjoyed Candler enjoy the warmer weather in By Nathan Fordyce/For the physical vacations when the kids Arizona for the Christmas season. Savannah Morning News were younger, as he struggled with While Amy’s enjoying learning about Posted Dec 28, 2019 at 5:23 PM his short stature. But, Caryn enjoyed living life in town, Caryn’s off and herself, and it looked like it was hankering for the wilderness. In fact, maybe a girls’ day out. She and her this weekend, she and her daughter Getting prepared to run a marathon daughter glowed with health and enjoyed exploring the trails in White takes dedication. It takes a well- happiness. Tank Mountain Regional Park. rounded diet. It takes training. It
takes a determination to tell yourself LPBW star Amy adjusts to town life, you are going to finish and finish while Caryn Chandler gets far away strong. from the crowds LPBW fans heard that Amy asked For many, that applies to a 5K, 10K, for some advice on settling her little half or full marathon. But for 33- dog Felix in his new home in year-old professional ultrarunner town. TV Shows Ace reported that Patrick Reagan, it means essentially the concept of making the new running from Savannah to St. house into a home keeps her busy at Mary’s. the moment. Things seem quite The LPBW star captioned her pic different for the matriarch of Little with, “The Arizona cactus lined trails On Dec. 7, Reagan competed in the People, Big World, as she’s now were calling … We definitely Brazos Bend 100 as part of the USA getting to know neighbors. The aren’t in the PNW but love the Track and Field 100 Mile Trail farm’s much bigger than her new change of scenery.” She tagged it Championships in Needville, Texas. yard, and even Felix needs to make with “White Tank Mountain some adjustments. As she and Chris Regional Reagan, a Savannah resident since head into the New Year, Amy’s Park.” Maricopacountyparks website 2010, did not just compete in the determined to enjoy her new life. explains there’s over 30 miles of 100-mile race, he won it. excellent shared-use trails.” But, the In the meantime, we know that “handicap accessible portion now “I got to mile like 20 and I just knew Caryn and Matt left Oregon after an ends about 1/10 of a mile past it was going to be a special day,” early Christmas and went to Petroglyph Plaza.” So, maybe that Reagan recalled of race day. “But Arizona. Cheatsheet reminds us that explains why fans don’t see Matt in you really know by mile 62 or the Arizona is like Matt’s second home any of her pics this time. Still, there’s hundred-K mark if it’s going to be a these days, In fact, he and nothing wrong with mom and super, super special day.” Chandler…frequently travel to daughter time at all. Arizona. They noted, that he once Brazos Bend is a mostly flat course “mentioned that he’d love to give up What do you think about Amy that has runners racing on hard- Roloff Farms completely and live getting the feeling for her new town crushed rock, soft trails covered by a Page 1
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canopy and horse trails with just minutes and 43 seconds, which Running was not something Reagan crosspaths of asphalt. equates to an average mile of 7:24. always did. In fact, he fell into it because he realized in high school Reagan kept grinding around the The next-fastest runner, San that he was no longer getting playing 16.74-mile track, which is run in a Francisco’s Ryan Montgomery, was time in basketball. six-lap format, taking in the well behind in 12:59:46. appropriate fuel his body needed to “I decided if I was going to put a lot continue the push toward the finish. Setting a record in a 100-mile race at of energy into something, I wanted it a national championship venue was a to be really positive,” Reagan Reagan finished stronger than he substantial feat by itself. Making the recalled. “Like most people who find started, saying he ran a 6-minute, 51- record-setting performance even running, I found it through the gym second mile to cap off the night. more impressive, Reagan had won class mile. I can remember calling another 100-mile race six weeks my dad on a pay phone and saying Personal bests for ultra runner earlier to the day. ‘You’re not going to believe what I Patrick Reagan, 33, of Savannah: just ran.’” 1 mile: 4:11 Reagan won the annual Javelina 5K: 14:24 Jundred 100-mile race, his third After graduating from Slippery 10K: 29:51 consecutive year doing so, at the end Rock, Reagan pushed his running Half marathon: 1:04.28 of October in McDowell Mountain career to the side to pursue another Full marathon: 2:20.06 Regional Park in Scottsdale, passion: music. More specifically, he 50 miles: 5:08.21 Arizona. He finished in 13:11:48. enjoys World War II and pre-WW II 100K: 6:33.50 (He set the course record in winning ragtime jazz jug band music. 100M: 12:21.43 in 2017 in 13:01:14.) He said it was the first time he had Reagan started traveling in bands Estimated mileage ran in his tried to compete in two 100-mile while playing the washboard lifetime: 60,000 races so closely together. With it, percussion, ukulele, tenor guitar and Reagan was unsure how his body other instruments. “I get the question a lot, ‘What do would respond. It was because of music that Reagan you think about?’ Really I’m eating was staying in Savannah, but it was something or drinking something Zach Bitter, an ultramarathon runner because of Savannah that he began every 10 minutes, so I’m using my and a world-record holder in the 100 to recapture the joy of his sport. watch as a timetable for when I mile, said the fact that Reagan was should eat,” Reagan said of mental able to win after running Javelina “Landing in Savannah and somehow state during a race. “All I’m thinking was no small feat. this place reinvigorated running for about is this the right perceived me,” Reagan said. exertion. Checking on my body and “It’s not common to hit 100-milers saying if we’re reaching too far. Are that close together. To do it at a high He served as the cross country coach we too close to the red line? level is another level,” Bitter said. for SCAD for 10 years before “Running 13:12 at Javelina and stepping down in February to “Can we sustain this pace? Shall we running 12:21 at Brazos are going to become a personal coach. While at go faster? Should I take the risk and be two of the fastest 100-mile times SCAD, Reagan said his passion for go with this group of guys? It could on the year. To have two of them in running only ignited as his recruits make it easier if you take a risk now one year is great, but to have two of became successful, which pushed so you don’t have to work by them within six weeks is another him to train with them. From that yourself later to try to catch those level.” point, his professional career took guys. It’s a consistent and constant off. calculation. I never get particularly Who is Patrick Reagan? bored.” Reagan grew up in Masontown, He started running half and full Pennsylvania, which is south of marathons, and trained in the To say that Reagan just won the race Pittsburgh and just north of the mountains of North Carolina and would be an understatement. The West Virginia border. He ran cross Tennessee. He qualified for the 2016 Southwestern Pennsylvania native country and track and field at U.S. Olympic Trials, then catapulted broke the record for a 100-mile trail Slippery Rock University. into ultra 100-mile marathons. run in the United States with a staggering time of 12 hours, 21
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Reagan has had top finishes at the more than 10% of his gut and Regional Park in Peoria. That’s USA national championships, bacterial cells,” Grosicki said of his where the pair hopes to raise a UltraVasan (Sweden) and the IAU research. “What’s so cool, the family. 100K World Championships, among purpose of that bacteria and only others. He is considered one of the thing that bacteria can do is turn Viewers who tune in to the nest cam fastest people in North America. lactic acid that is produced during on the Arizona Game and Fish exercise into fuel that can be used by Department’s website may see eggs “I have an addictive personality,” his muscles while he runs.” laid and hatched at different times. Reagan said. “I have a capacity to The video is unedited and discretion love to hurt, the grind and to suffer.” Grosicki said that a study was is advised. Last year, some viewers A special gut published at Harvard that stated saw competing male eagles runners who competed in the repeatedly divebomb each other for Elite athlete have something that Boston Marathon saw the same territory and witnessed ravens and a separates them from the pack, that bacteria go from 1% to 3%, not the ringtail cat scavenge eggs. “it” factor. Some have rare speed, jump to 10% that occurred with some can jump higher, some have Reagan. “Despite lacking young last season, superior power. For Reagan, it’s his the bald eagle camera was a huge stomach and his ability to build For Grosicki, the question became success because viewers saw the real- energy and turn it into fuel. “is that a response everyone would life struggles of nature,” Jeff Meyers, have, if they competed in a 100-mile program manager, said in a prepared “My system operates quite race. “Or is his gut one of the other statement. “That struggle is real, and differently from most endurance things that’s so catalytic in his ability through these cameras, the public athletes,” Reagan said. “We’ve done to be this world-class athlete.” can gain a new appreciation for our a lot of testing, and it’s proven and fascinating wildlife.” shown in my tests it’s kind of my New Nesting ability to eat and my ability to adapt The department said bald eagles to hot conditions that are probably Season For Arizona were first documented in nests at my two best skill sets or like my Bald Eagles Camera Lake Pleasant in 1979, with the first superpowers.” nesting attempt in 1984. No young By Christina Estes were produced until 1993 and since Published: Thursday, December 26, Reagan began working with Greg then, nearly 30 young eagles at Lake 2019 - 8:14am Grosicki, an assistant professor of Pleasant have survived to take their kinesiology and director of the first flights. exercise physiology laboratory in the biodynamics and human Three other wildlife cameras performance center at Georgia operated by the state are available to Southern University Armstrong view. They include seasonal views of Campus in Savannah. Through wintering sandhill cranes in different studies, Grosicki was able southeastern Arizona, a bat roost at to discover the one thing that may Cluff Ranch Wildlife Ara and an set Reagan apart from all others: his underwater pupfish cam. In the gut. future, a camera placed near a great horned owl nest will be available, Grosicki studied Reagan’s according to the department. Arizona Game and Fish Department microbiome (bacteria, fungi, viruses that live inside the body) before and Bald eagles in the nest at Lake Bald eagle breeding directly after a race to see exactly Pleasant in January 2019. how Reagan’s body performed when season kicks off, running 100 miles. The second season of Arizona’s bald leads to restrictions eagles nest cam is underway. “There’s this one bacteria, that December 26, The live-streaming camera provides 2019 FoothillsFocus 161 Views before the race, he had almost none a raw look at nature. of it. It was pretty much negligible, Outdoor recreationists, pilots and drone operators asked to avoid bald less than 1%. Then two hours after The camera broadcasts the daily lives the race, that one bacteria made up eagle nest areas of two bald eagles at Lake Pleasant Page 3
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PHOENIX — Arizona’s bald eagles agencies will also close areas around Lake Pleasant are back and they will soon be breeding locations, including near No vehicle, watercraft or foot entry working on the next generation of popular recreation sites. is allowed into a portion of the eagles at breeding sites statewide. Lower Agua Fria Arm from Dec. 15 Pilots are reminded to maintain the to June 15. Contact Maricopa To assist with the state’s continued FAA-recommended 2,000-foot County Parks and Recreation at bald eagle population growth, the above ground level advisory when (928) 501-1710. Arizona Game and Fish Department flying over bald eagle habitat, while encourages outdoor recreationists, drones and paragliders are asked to TIPS FOR VISITING EAGLE aircraft pilots, drone operators and avoid the areas completely. Bald AREAS motorized paragliders to do their eagles are sensitive to even short If you are visiting bald eagle country, part by not disturbing the state’s 89 durations of low-flying aircraft an advance call to the local land eagle breeding areas. As such, some activity near their nests and just a management agency, such as the portions of public land and water few minutes of disturbance can lead local U.S. Forest Service district areas will be temporarily closed to to a nesting failure. office, or the Arizona Game and help protect these majestic animals Fish Department may help to plan to ensure even more young eagles AZGFD’s bald eagle management your trip to avoid disturbing bald take to the skies this spring. efforts are supported by the Heritage eagles. By following these simple Fund, an initiative passed more than guidelines, we can all help ensure 20 years ago to provide for wildlife that our living wildlife legacy will last education and conservation through for generations to come: Arizona lottery ticket sales. Enjoy bald eagles from outside AIRSPACE ADVISORY the closures, which are marked Statewide with signs and/or buoys. Watch The Federal Aviation Administration from a distance using a spotting (FAA) has established a 2000-foot scope, binoculars or telephoto above ground level (AGL) advisory camera lens. along the Salt and Verde river Anyone approached by a drainages and lakes such as Lake nestwatcher and asked to cease Pleasant, Roosevelt Lake and Alamo an activity or leave a closed area “Arizona’s bald eagles are busy Lake. These areas are designated on should comply. A few good preparing their nest for what’s hoped the Phoenix Sectional Aeronautical places to see bald eagles without to be a productive breeding season,” map and also include Alamo Lake, disturbing them (during said Kenneth “Tuk” Jacobson, Ashurst Lake, Greer Lakes, Crescent December and January) are at AZGFD bald eagle management Lake, Luna Lake, Show Low Lake, Lake Mary and Mormon Lake coordinator. “The birds nest, forage Chevelon Canyon Lake, Woods near Flagstaff, on the Verde and roost at rivers and lakes that are Canyon Lake, Lake Mary, Dogtown Canyon Train in Clarkdale or also popular recreation spots. That’s Reservoir, White Horse Lake and the Roosevelt Lake. why we must be vigilant to help Bill Williams National Wildlife Bald eagles protecting an active protect the birds to ensure their Refuge. Special brochures for pilots nest will let you know if you are populations statewide continue to regarding this advisory can be too close. If a bald eagle is flourish. That success wouldn’t be obtained by calling the Arizona vocalizing and circling the area possible without the cooperation of Department of Transportation or frantically, you are too close and outdoor recreationists who respect the Arizona Game and Fish need to leave the area quickly. the closures during the breeding Department’s Terrestrial Wildlife Bald eagles incubating eggs or season.” branch at (623) 236-7506. brooding small young should never be off the nest for more During the 2019 breeding season, 71 Horseshoe Lake than 15 minutes. Depending on the nesting location, a young hatched and 63 reached the Help from anglers is especially portion of the lake may be closed important milestone of their first needed. Fishing line and tackle from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the flight, known as fledging. have killed two nestlings and Arizona Game and Fish Department been found in two-thirds of all at (623) 236-7506. To further protect the eagles, various bald eagle nests in the state. land and wildlife management Every year biologists remove Page 4
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these lethal hazards from nests such as Wounded Warrior and Main Trailhead. Five races start and/or entangled nestlings. Cardon’s Children’s Hospital. In between 7 and 8:30 a.m. Expect Discard any fishing line addition to working on personal entry delays in the early properly in specially-marked projects, the group helps others morning and heavy parking lot recycling containers or at fishing build basic skills. Contact Gwen and trail traffic throughout stores. Also, use fresh line that Hayes at 480-720-5359 for more afternoon. Trails are open to the isn’t old and brittle. Use the information. pubic during the race. This is a correct test line for the fish you AFTER HOURS: 7-9 p.m., Jan permitted event and not a park are trying to catch. Also, do not 3 at Queen Creek Branch sponsored event. For more cut the line when an undesirable Library, 21802 S. Ellsworth information: fish is caught and return it to Road, Mary Lou Fulton Story www.aravaiparunning.com/san- the water with the hook and line Time Room. After the doors are tan-scramble. attached. locked for the evening, RECYCLING EVENT: 8 a.m- Duck hunters should scout out professional organizer Pam noon Saturdays, Jan. 4 and 11 at their hunting area to ensure that Fitzgibbons will share the Queen Creek Field bald eagles are not nesting organizational skills and Operations Facility, 19715 S. nearby. techniques on how to decide 220th St. The QC Recycles what to keep, dealing with event allows drop offs of live, You can help bald eagle research and emotional attachment to used Christmas trees, recovery efforts by reporting any sentimental items, and the electronics, appliances, latex and harassment or shooting of bald physical and emotional benefits acrylic paints, and documents to eagles. Call the Arizona Game and of simplifying lives to get shred. Residents with a current Fish Operation Game Thief Hotline organized. Arrive before doors Town trash and recycling at (800) 352-0700 or U.S. Fish and are locked on the first Friday of account must bring a copy of Wildlife Service Law Enforcement at each month for a different fun water bill. Tires, household (480) 967-7900. activity. Bring a date or come hazardous waste not accepted. alone. Must be 18 or older to Go to: queencreek.org. January events in attend. See: queencreek.org. SENIOR EXPO: 9 a.m.-noon EVAHA MINI CIRCUIT: 8 Jan. 7 at Central Arizona Queen Creek a.m., Jan. 4 at Horseshoe Park College’s Superstition Mountain include San Tan and Equestrian Centre, 20464 E Campus, 805 S. Idaho Road in Riggs Road. East Valley Arabian Apache Junction. The Second Scramble Trail Horse Association is entering its Annual Apache Junction/Gold Runs, 'Marvelous 31st year of sponsoring the Canyon Senior Expo, hosted by minicircuit series of open All Independent Newsmedia, Wonderettes' Breed shows, promoting the features businesses with Posted Wednesday, December 25, small time Arabian horse information on 2019 11:11 am enthusiast with showing, trail healthcare/wellness, home Independent Newsmedia rides and educational clinics in a improvement, financial services, friendly and helpful group to insurance, retirement living and From the San Tan Scramble Trail help horsemen and more for Apache Junction, Runs (Jan. 4) at San Tan Mountain horsewomen grow. Free for Gold Canyon and neighboring Regional Park to The Marvelous spectators. Events held communities. Vendors sought. Wonderettes (Jan. 24-27) at Queen throughout the day. See: For booth reservations contact Creek Performing Arts Center and a queencreek.org. Barb at 623-208-7866 or water-smart workshop (Jan. 25) at SAN TAN SCRAMBLETRAIL [email protected]. Historic Town Hall, there’s a lot RUNS: From 5 a.m. to 4 p.m., TODDLER TIME: 9:15 a.m., going on in Queen Creek. Events Saturday, Jan. 4. A large, 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., Jan. 7, include: permitted running race event 14, 21 and 28 at the Queen will take place at San Tan Creek Library Mary Lou Fulton YARN FUN: 9 a.m.-noon, Jan. Regional Park, 6533 W. Story Time Room, 21802 S. 3 at Queen Creek Library, Phillips Road in Queen Cree,. Ellsworth Road. Storytime for 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. Join All trails will be used by ages 18-36 months and Busy Hands Knit and Crochet runners. The start/finish line caregivers who come to sing, Group to stitch for charities and related set-up will be at the move, listen and play in the
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program geared toward SASI GIRLS: 6 p.m., Jan. 8 at “Who’s Sorry Now,” “That’ll developmental stages. Tickets Horseshoe Park and Equestrian Be the Day,” “Donna,” “At the available in the library beginning Centre, 20464 E Riggs Road. Hop,” “Rock Around the at 11 a.m. on a first-come, first- Southwest Arizona Sisters Inc. Clock,” “Hound Dog” and served basis. Limited to 50 is a non-profit 501(c)3 more. Call 480-987-7469. See: participants. organization comprised of www.qcpac.com. PRESCHOOL cowgirls performing equestrian TINY HERO OF FERNY STORYTIME: 9:15 a.m., 10:15 drill routines with sponsor CREEK: 4-5 p.m., Jan. 13 at the a.m., 11:15 a.m., Jan. 8 at the presentations at rodeos and Queen Creek Library, 21802 S. Queen Creek Library Mary Lou other events, plus host Ellsworth Road, Mary Lou Fulton Story Time Room, community service events and Fulton Story Time Room. Title 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. fundraisers year-round. The Wave--The Tiny Hero of Ferny Children ages 3-6 enjoy SASi Girls are the official Creek Library features Eddie, an storytelling, story stretches, Equestrian Drill Team of the insect living in a fourth grade puppets, songs, rhymes, games, Grand Canyon Pro Rodeo classroom, reading the books he dancing, finger plays, and crafts. Association attending rodeos loves, and staying alert for bug- Tickets will be available in the and events locally and abroad. squishing humans. Braving library beginning at 9 a.m. on a See: sasiattitude.org. more humans, he ventures to first-come, first-served basis, COLOR GARDENS: 6:30-7:30 the school library to save his and will be limited to 50 total p.m., Jan. 9 at Queen Creek aunt, facing danger. Hear more participants. Branch Library Mary Lou and make a minimalist poster SPECIAL NEEDS LEGO Fulton Story Time Room, for the library. For 8-12-year- CLUB: 6-7:30 p.m., Jan. 8 at 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. Living olds. Registration: Queen Creek Branch Library, in the desert Southwest means queencreek.org. 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. The enjoying color in the garden all SAN TAN ARTISTS Autism Society of Greater year long, even in winter. Learn GUILD: The San Tan Artists Phoenix presents Special Needs how to incorporate color in Guild meets at 6 p.m. on the Lego Club. Come and play as your garden using plants and second Tuesday of the month Legos are provided for kids other elements for year-round (Jan. 14) at Gangplank, 22240 S while parents supervise. This beauty. Go to: queencreek.org. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek. Lego Club is for special needs TEEN ADVISORY The Guild has a mission is to kids of all ages and their GROUP: 4-5 p.m., Jan 9 at support, encourage and families. All ages are welcome. Queen Creek Branch Library, promote the works of members Meetings are free. See: 21802 S. Ellsworth Road. Teens by providing networking, queencreek.org. interested in making new training, workshops, lectures AZCHA JUMP START YOUR friends, being part of the library and show opportunities while YEAR: Jan. 8-12, at Horseshoe team and gaining leadership building community with the Park & Equestrian Centre, experience can join the library’s arts. New members of all art 20464 E Riggs Road. Arizona Teen Advisory Group and earn experience levels from student Cutting Horse Association --- volunteer hours for planning to professional plus art “Jump Start Your Year” hosts and executing community enthusiasts and supporters are six different five-day events service and teen programs. welcome to attend. Visit: showcasing the best NCHA T.A.G meets every second and santanartistsguild.com for more sanctioning cutting in the fourth Thursday when school is information. western U.S. Cutting is an in session. Snacks served. Go RUNNIN GUNS: 1-9 P.M., equestrian event in the western to: queencreek.org. Jan. 15 at Horseshoe Park and riding style where a horse and DICK CLARK’S Equestrian Centre, 20464 E rider are judged on their ability COUNTDOWN TO THE Riggs Road, Queen Creek. to separate a single animal away 1950s: 7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10 Runnin Guns Mounted from a cattle herd and keep it at Queen Creek Performing Shooting, Mounted shooting away for a short period of time. Arts Center, 22149 Ocotillo competitions and exhibitions Events held throughout the Road, As part of the 2019-2020 fostering a public awareness of day.F ree for spectators. See: Centerstage Series, The Rave- the sport while producing a few www.qcbra.com. Ons perform their brand-new independent shoots per year show of 1950s hits including with changing formats geared Page 6
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for audiences and participants. WATER-SMART Lake Pleasant bald Free for spectators. For more WORKSHOP: 9 a.m.-noon information: Saturday, Jan. 25 at Historic eagle camera is runningunsevents.com/ or Town Hall, 22350 S. Ellsworth livestreaming for https://www.facebook.com/Ru Road, Queen Creek. A free nning-Guns-Productions- smart controller water-smart 2nd season 101718287878296. workshop on new products that BY KEVIN DOLLY PARTON can automatically adjust an STONE | DECEMBER 26, 2019 STARRING KAREN irrigation schedule based on AT 4:45 AM HESTER: 7:30 p.m., Jan. 17 at actual site and weather UPDATED: DECEMBER 26, 2019 Queen Creek Performing Arts conditions teaches how the AT 12:34 PM Center, 22149 Ocotillo Road. technology can help save on Karen Hester embodies Dolly landscape watering. Register: Parton as a Dolly Parton queencreek.org/departments/ut Tribute artist showcasing ilities/water/water- greatest hits including “I Will conservation/water-smart- Always Love You,” “Jolene,” workshop-series. and “9 to 5” along with a live WRITERS STUDIO: 6-7 p.m., country band. Fee: $22, $24.50, Jan. 28 at Queen Creek Branch $27. Go to: (Arizona Game and Fish Department Photo) Library. Writers Studio for https://qcpac.com/centerstage- children’s authors and PHOENIX – Season two of popular series. illustrators aspiring to be a Arizona Game and Fish Department ACMSA ARIZONA STATE published picture book or programming starring nesting bald SHOOT: Jan. 17-19 at juvenile author or illustrator are eagles is now streaming. Horseshoe Park & Equestrian invited to monthly meetings Centre, 20464 E Riggs Road. offering visits from published And hopefully this year’s show will Arizona Cowboy Mounted authors, illustrators and include some new cast members. Shooters Association - Arizona publishing professionals sharing State Shoot highlights one of insights on the writing process Visitors to Game and Fish’s bald the fastest growing equestrian and publishing world; peer eagle camera website can follow the sportsas riders shoot blanks critiques and workshops. The exploits of a nesting pair at Lake from single action 45-caliber studio is open on the fourth Pleasant Regional Park. weapons while riding their Tuesday of each month. For horse at full run for the fastest January, picture and board book Nearly 400,000 viewers tuned in to time. Free for spectators. author Lori Alexander addresses the livestream last winter and had Competitions held throughout what to do once your the chance to see soaring male eagles the day. Go to: queencreek.org. manuscript is written. For adults competing for territory and four FAMILY THEATRE only. Registration: eggs being laid in two clutches. SERIES: 7 p.m., Jan. 24-27 at queencreek.org. Queen Creek Performing Arts TEEN TECH EXPERTS: 3:30- However, the eggs were destroyed Center, 22149 Ocotillo Road. 5 p.m., Jan. 29 at Queen Creek by ravens and a ringtail before they The smash off-Broadway hit Branch Library Conference could hatch. The Marvelous Wonderettes Room, 21802 S. Ellsworth takes audiences to the 1958 Road. Teen tech experts help Game and Fish officials are crossing Springfield High School, answer your tech questions; their fingers that nestlings will make showing the lives and loves of help with library downloadable their debuts this season. Betty Jean, Cindy Lou, Missy, materials, e-mail accounts, smart and Suzy as the girls serenade phones and tablets, social “Despite lacking young last season, with classic ‘50s hits including network accounts and MS the bald eagle camera was a huge “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” Office applications. Bring your success because viewers saw the real- “Stupid Cupid,” and “Lipstick questions and/or device. See: life struggles of nature,” Jeff Meyers, on Your Collar” as part of the queencreek.org. director of the department’s Family Theatre Series. Fee Watchable Wildlife program, said in $12.50. Call 480-987-7469. See: a press release. “That struggle is real, www.qcpac.com. and through these cameras, the Page 7
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public can gain a new appreciation old artifacts from the Titanic and a Now the menu features favorites such as the Double- for our fascinating wildlife.” downtown art walk that will Double, burger and Animal Style fries. (Photo: Christopher Elliott, Special to USA TODAY) introduce you to local bands, Depending on when you tune in, vendors and restaurants. We did our research and found there might not be much to see. The Here’s our guide to some must-visit that, woefully, there are no In-N- eagles are often away from their nest places during Fiesta Bowl week. Out Burger restaurants east of for feeding. Texas, and we’re thinking that However, Game and Fish said the Pizzeria Bianco people from that side of the U.S. action would become more It’s hardly a trip to Phoenix if you might want a taste. consistent if eggs were laid. haven’t visited one of James Beard Award-winning chef Chris Known for their simple and The department is currently Bianco’s celebrity-frequented affordable menu of just burgers, fries hosting wildlife livestreams 24 hours establishments, Pizzeria Bianco, and shakes — and the not-so-secret a day featuring four Arizona animals, Pane Bianco and Bar Bianco. Here’s menu, which is where you’ll find the with the eagles joining sandhill a tip: Pizzeria Bianco in the Town famous “Animal Style” burgers and cranes, desert pupfish and bats. and County shopping center north fries — In-N-Out restaurants can be of downtown has more seating than found across the Valley. The A great horned owl camera is in the the original location and takes location closest to State Farm works and will soon join the lineup, reservations. Stadium is at 9585 W. Camelback according to the release. Details: Five Phoenix locations. 602- Road, Phoenix. 368-3273, pizzeriabianco.com. Visiting Phoenix for Details: 10:30 a.m.-1 a.m. Sundays- There’s no better way to see all that Thursdays; 10:30 a.m.-1:30 the Fiesta Bowl? downtown Phoenix has to offer than a.m. Fridays-Saturdays. See all Here's your guide to on this art walk that encompasses locations at in-n-out.com. some 50 galleries and cultural FIESTA BOWL 2019: 4 metro fun things to do venues, as well as almost two dozen Phoenix bars for Ohio State around town restaurants and bars. Before going, Buckeyes football fans make sure to KiMi Robinson, Arizona check our comprehensive guide. RepublicPublished 7:00 a.m. MT Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Participating locations include the Safari Park Dec. 24, 2019 | Updated 11:52 p.m. Phoenix Art Museum, Heard From the youngest residents in the MT Dec. 26, 2019 Museum, Arizona Science Center, baby animal nursery to the bigger, CONNECTTWEETLINKEDINC Lady Luck Tattoo Phoenix, Phoenix OMMENTEMAILMORE more dangerous mammals at the Public Market Café, The Churchill safari park, you’ll find the largest
and Cobra Arcade Bar. selection of exotic and endangered Corrections & Clarifications: A animals in Arizona — even a rare previous version of this article gave Details: 6-10 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3. See the incorrect date of the Fiesta Bowl. white alligator. the map and shuttle routes online.
Free. artlinkphx.org/first-fridays. Details: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily So you’re in town to catch the Fiesta FIESTA BOWL 2019: Here are 3 (aquarium is open until 7 p.m.). Bowl in Glendale on Dec. 28. But metro Phoenix bars for Clemson what is there to do around Phoenix Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Tigers football fans Safari Park, 16501 W. Northern when you're not rooting for In-N-Out Burger Ave., Litchfield Park. $23-$41.50. Clemson or Ohio State at the game? 623-289-1132, wildlifeworld.com. One thing’s for sure: You’ll want to Boyce Thompson Arboretum be outside. There’s no shortage of day trips and scenic landscapes — and we’re guessing you might want to snap some pictures of a saguaro cactus or two to prove you visited the Sonoran Desert. Other special offerings in the Valley of the Sun include a T. rex skeleton In-N-Out Burger originated in Southern California that’s millions of years old, 100-year- as the first drive-through hamburger stand in 1948. Page 8
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Victoria the T. rex starts her world tour in downtown Hiking the Maricopa Trail: Try this easy access point Phoenix Kart racing For more prehistoric fun, catch If you’re looking for another outlet Victoria on her world tour at the for your competitive spirit, check Arizona Science Museum in out indoor and outdoor kart racing. downtown Phoenix. The T. rex, Near downtown, not too far from reportedly the second-most where you likely arrived at Phoenix Easy day trip from Phoenix: Boyce Thompson complete skeleton ever discovered, is Sky Harbor International Airport, Arboretum is a desert oasis part of an interactive exhibit that K1 Speed offers indoor European- allows adults and children alike to Head east, about an hour’s drive style electric kart racing. Farther experience the sights and smells of north near Scottsdale, Octane from downtown, and you’ll find life as a T. rex and create a Arizona’s largest and oldest Raceway’s race track begins inside personalized hologram. and winds outdoors. botanical garden, which offers daily tours of vegetation native to the Details: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Arizona K1 Speed: Noon-10 p.m. Mondays- Sonoran Desert and deserts from Science Center, 600 E. Washington around the globe. Thursdays; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays, St., Phoenix. $11.95 in addition to 10 a.m.-midnight Saturdays; 10 a.m.- the general admission fee of $18 Details: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; last 9 p.m. Sundays; holiday hours ($13 for ages 3-17) online, $19.95 available here. 2425 S. 21st St., admission one hour before closing. ($14.95 for children) at the door. Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 Phoenix. Prices vary by package. 602-716- 602-223-0074, k1speed.com. E. Arboretum Way, Superior. $5-15. 2000, azscience.org/victoria. 520-689-2723, btarboretum.org. Octane Raceway: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.- The Maricopa Trail Deer Valley Petroglyph Preserve midnight Fridays; 10 a.m.-midnight It might be daunting trying to figure Saturdays; 11 a.m.-8 p.m. The 47-acre preserve on the out where to start on the 317-mile northwestern edge of Phoenix is Sundays; holiday hours available trail. Our advice is to begin at one of here. 9119 E. Talking Stick Way, on home to more than 1,500 prehistoric the Maricopa County Parks. White petroglyphs. Along a quarter-mile the Salt River Reservation near Tank Mountain Regional Scottsdale. Prices vary by package. trail you’ll also see desert wildlife and Park offers trails ranging from less come across the museum, which has 602-302-7223, octaneraceway.com. than a mile to almost 8 miles long; an ongoing exhibit on archaeological the nature center is open 8 a.m.-4 discoveries in Deer Valley. The DIG DEEPER p.m. daily. Titanic exhibit preserve is closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the ship and most of its Details: 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Sundays- passengers did not survive the Thursdays; 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Fridays- Details: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays- Titanic's maiden voyage in 1912, Saturdays. White Tank Mountain more than 137 artifacts were Saturdays. Deer Valley Petroglyph Regional Park, 20304 W. White Tank Preserve, 3711 W. Deer Valley Road, recovered from the ocean floor, and Mountain Road, Waddell. $7 per they're currently on display in the Phoenix. $9, $5 for ages 7-12. 623- vehicle. 602-506-2930, ext. 582-8007, shesc.asu.edu/dvpp. Valley. The exhibit will take you 5; maricopacountyparks.net. through seven galleries depicting
Victoria the T. rex recreations of the ship’s rooms and the stories of its passengers.
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Details: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sundays- One of the many parks in the Thursdays; 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Fridays- Maricopa County Parks and Saturdays. OdySea in the Desert, Recreation system, White Tank Park 9500 E. Via de Ventura, on the Salt is located in the West Valley near River Reservation near Scottsdale. Waddell. The park offers a variety of $14.95-$24.95. 480-291- challenging trails, but it also has two 5083, titanicaz.com. barrier-free trails. One such trail is the first one-half mile of the Reach the reporter Waterfall Trail. at [email protected] or at 602-444-4968. Follow her on Jonathan McKelvey, White Tank’s Twitter @kimirobin. trail maintenance technician, Support local journalism. Subscribe provided tools, materials and expert to azcentral.com today. oversight of the work. Trails require constant maintenance due to usage Sun City Hikers and weather, thus all trail systems in Arizona rely heavily on volunteers, work on trails such as the Sun City Hikers. In Work with county park crews addition to volunteering at the White Posted Friday, December 20, Tank park, the club also does trail 2019 10:00 am maintenance and invasive vegetation By Art Huseonica removal at Spur Cross Ranch Conservation area in Cave Creek. Sun City Hikers participated this month in trail maintenance at the The club will conduct its annual White Tank Mountain Regional banquet Wednesday, Jan. 15 at Park. Palmbrook Country Club, 9350 W. Greenway Road, with featured guest Coordinated by the club’s speaker Charles Liu, author and Conservation Coordinator Bill Pope, global hiker. club volunteers helped to buffer up the recently concreted Waterfall The Sun City Hikers is a non- Trail. Supported by park personnel, chartered club and membership is volunteers hauled granite aggregate open to anyone 55-plus, regardless to locations along the popular trail, of where they live. To learn how to adding it to the berms for safety and become a member or to get more to make it aesthetically pleasing. information, visit suncityhikers.org. Modifications were made to help ensure drainage when it rains. Editor’s Note: Mr. Huseonica is a Lake Pleasant bald Sun City Hikers member and “This helps us to continue to provides publicity for the club. eagles star on live- provide properly maintained trails to streaming camera our park visitors,” said Dove A tired but happy volunteer crew of Dec 20, 2019 Luidhardt, park supervisor. “The Sun City hikers after trail work in the White Mountain Independent Sun City Hikers donate their time White Tank Mountain Regional and expertise annually at the park, Park. and we greatly appreciate their efforts.”
In addition to berm work, volunteers removed large rocks from the trail bed, dug rain bars and replaced trail tread with granite aggregate.
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PHOENIX — The nest is primed nesting attempt occurring in 1984. earlier this year. They saw competing and the live-streaming camera is While no young were produced until male bald eagles repeatedly already broadcasting the day-to-day 1993, 28 birds have since survived to divebomb each other for territory, life of a pair of bald eagles hoping to take their first flight, known as and watched as a total of four eggs raise a family inside their Lake fledging. were laid in two separate clutches Pleasant Regional Park nest. that were later scavenged by ravens Statewide there are a record 74 and a ringtail. Nearly 400,000 viewers tuned in for breeding areas, which helped to the inaugural season to watch the produce 99 eggs and 72 eagle So what’s in store for season two? unfiltered drama that transpired nestlings, with 65 birds fledging the earlier this year. They saw competing nest, according to AZGFD’s 2019 male bald eagles repeatedly dive- annual survey. bomb each other for territory, and watched as a total of four eggs were The Arizona Game and Fish laid in two separate clutches that Department Lake Pleasant bald eagle were later scavenged by ravens and a live-streaming camera is funded ringtail. through Heritage and Pittman
Robertson funds, the Southwestern So what’s in store for season two? Bald Eagle Management Committee “Some nestlings, we hope!” said Jeff and public donations. It was installed Meyers, Arizona Game and Fish “Some nestlings, we hope!” said Jeff in fall 2018 in partnership with Salt Department Watchable Wildlife Meyers, Arizona Game and Fish River Project, Maricopa County program manager. “Despite lacking Department Watchable Wildlife Parks and Recreation Department, young last season, the bald eagle program manager. “Despite lacking Arizona State Land Department and camera was a huge success because young last season, the bald eagle the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. viewers saw the real-life struggles of camera was a huge success because nature. That struggle is real, and viewers saw the real-life struggles of For more information about what through these cameras, the public nature. That struggle is real, and AZGFD does to manage the state’s can gain a new appreciation for our through these cameras, the public 800-plus native species, including fascinating wildlife.” can gain a new appreciation for our bald eagles, visit www.azgfd.gov. fascinating wildlife.” Those wanting to support AZGFD’s Watch the cam mission to conserve and protect The bald eagle cam is one of four The bald eagle cam is one of four Arizona’s wildlife can sign up for a wildlife cameras offered by the wildlife cameras offered by the Conservation Membership package department, which also provides department, which also provides at www.azwildlifehero.com. seasonal views of wintering sandhill seasonal views of wintering sandhill cranes in southeastern Arizona, a bat cranes in southeastern Arizona, a bat Lake Pleasant bald roost at Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area roost at Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area and an underwater pupfish cam. A and an underwater pupfish cam. A eagles star on fifth — a camera placed near a great fifth — a camera placed near a great live-streaming camera horned owl nest — is on the horizon horned owl nest — is on the horizon and will join the other streaming and will join the other streaming Hopes are high for nestlings as feeds later feeds later camera’s second season begins at www.azgfd.gov/livecams. at www.azgfd.gov/livecams. Phoenix AZ (December 18, 2019) – The public is invited to check the The public is invited to check the The nest is primed and the live- cameras often if there is no activity cameras often if there is no activity streaming camera is already in the nest as the birds will leave at in the nest as the birds will leave at broadcasting the day-to-day life of a multiple times for feeding. If eggs multiple times for feeding. If eggs pair of bald eagles hoping to raise a are laid, the viewing will be more are laid, the viewing will be more family inside their Lake Pleasant consistent and predictable. consistent and predictable. Regional Park nest. Records show bald eagles inhabited Records show bald eagles inhabited Nearly 400,000 viewers tuned in for nests at Lake Pleasant since at least nests at Lake Pleasant since at least the inaugural season to watch the 1979, with the first documented 1979, with the first documented unfiltered drama that transpired nesting attempt occurring in
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1984. While no young were Nearly 400,000 viewers tuned in for produced until 1993, 28 birds have the inaugural season to watch the Statewide there are a record 74 since survived to take their first unfiltered drama that transpired breeding areas, which helped to flight, known as fledging. earlier this year. They saw produce 99 eggs and 72 eagle competing male bald eagles nestlings, with 65 birds fledging the Statewide there are a record 74 repeatedly divebomb each other for nest, according to AZGFD’s 2019 breeding areas, which helped to territory, and watched as a total of annual survey. produce 99 eggs and 72 eagle four eggs were laid in two separate nestlings, with 65 birds fledging the clutches that were later scavenged by The Arizona Game and Fish nest, according to AZGFD’s 2019 ravens and a ringtail. Department Lake Pleasant bald eagle annual survey. live-streaming camera is funded So what’s in store for season two? through Heritage and Pittman The Arizona Game and Fish Robertson funds, the Southwestern Department Lake Pleasant bald eagle “Some nestlings, we hope!” said Jeff Bald Eagle Management Committee live-streaming camera is funded Meyers, Arizona Game and Fish and public donations. It was through Heritage and Pittman Department installed in fall 2018 in partnership Robertson funds, the Southwestern Watchable Wildlife program with Salt River Project, Maricopa Bald Eagle Management Committee manager. “Despite lacking young County Parks and Recreation and public donations. It was installed last season, the bald eagle camera Department, Arizona State Land in fall 2018 in partnership with Salt was a huge success because viewers Department and the U.S. Bureau of River Project, Maricopa County saw the real-life struggles of nature. Reclamation. Parks and Recreation Department, That struggle is real, and through Arizona State Land Department and these cameras, the public can gain a For more information about what the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. new appreciation for our fascinating AZGFD does to manage the state’s wildlife.” 800-plus native species, including For more information about what bald eagles, visit www.azgfd.gov. AZGFD does to manage the state’s Watch the cam Those wanting to support 800-plus native species, including The bald eagle cam is one of four AZGFD’s mission to conserve and bald eagles, visit www.azgfd.gov. wildlife cameras offered by the protect Arizona’s wildlife can sign Those wanting to support AZGFD’s department, which also provides up for a Conservation Membership mission to conserve and protect seasonal views of wintering sandhill package at www.azwildlifehero.com. Arizona’s wildlife can sign up for a cranes in southeastern Arizona, a bat Conservation Membership package roost at Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area at www.azwildlifehero.com. and an underwater pupfish cam. A Arizona bald eagle fifth — a camera placed near a great breeding season horned owl nest — is on the horizon Arizona Lake and will join the other streaming kicks off, leads to Pleasant bald feeds later restrictions eagles star on live- at www.azgfd.gov/livecams. Outdoor recreationists, pilots and drone operators asked to avoid bald streaming camera The public is invited to check the eagle nest areas 12/18/2019 cameras often if there is no activity Yourvalley.net STL.News in the nest as the birds will leave at multiple times for feeding. If eggs Hopes are high for nestlings as are laid, the viewing will be more camera’s second season begins consistent and predictable.
PHOENIX, AZ (STL.News) The Records show bald eagles inhabited nest is primed and the live-streaming nests at Lake Pleasant since at least camera is already broadcasting the 1979, with the first documented day-to-day life of a pair of bald nesting attempt occurring in 1984. eagles hoping to raise a family inside While no young were produced until their Lake Pleasant Regional 1993, 28 birds have since survived to ARIZONA GAME & FISH Park nest. take their first flight, known as DEPARTMENT fledging. Posted Monday, December 16, 2019 11:06 am By Arizona Game & Fish Department Page 12
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activity near their nests and just a Forest Verde Ranger District 928- Arizona’s bald eagles are back and few minutes of disturbance can lead 567-4121. they will soon be working on the to a nesting failure. next generation of eagles at breeding AZGFD’s bald eagle management Verde River near Cold Water Creek, sites statewide. efforts are supported by the Heritage allows watercraft to float through To assist with the state’s continued Fund, an initiative passed more than but no stopping on the river or bald eagle population growth, the 20 years ago to provide for wildlife landing is allowed Dec. 1 to June 30. Arizona Game and Fish Department education and conservation through Contact Prescott National Forest encourages outdoor recreationists, Arizona lottery ticket sales. Verde Ranger District at 928-567- aircraft pilots, drone operators and 4121. motorized paragliders to do their AIRSPACE ADVISORY part by not disturbing the state’s 89 Statewide Verde River upstream of the East eagle breeding areas. As such, some The Federal Aviation Administration Verde confluence is closed to vehi- portions of public land and water (FAA) has established a 2000-foot cle and foot entry from Dec. 1 to areas will be temporarily closed to above ground level (AGL) advisory June 30. Floating through is allowed, help protect these majestic animals along the Salt and Verde river but no stopping in the river or to ensure even more young eagles drainages and lakes such as Lake landing is allowed. Contact the take to the skies this spring. Pleasant, Roosevelt Lake and Alamo Tonto National Forest Cave Creek Lake. These areas are designated on Ranger District at 480-595-3300. “Arizona’s bald eagles are busy the Phoenix Sectional Aeronautical preparing their nest for what’s hoped map and also include Alamo Lake, Verde River near Mule Shoe Bend to be a productive breeding season,” Ashurst Lake, Greer Lakes, Crescent allows watercraft to float through said Kenneth “Tuk” Jacobson, Lake, Luna Lake, Show Low Lake, but no stopping in the river or AZGFD bald eagle management Chevelon Canyon Lake, Woods landing is allowed from Dec. 1 to coordinator. “The birds nest, forage Canyon Lake, Lake Mary, Dogtown June 30. Contact the Tonto National and roost at rivers and lakes that are Reservoir, White Horse Lake and the Forest Cave Creek Ranger District at also popular recreation spots. That’s Bill Williams National Wildlife 480-595-3300. why we must be vigilant to help Refuge. Special brochures for pilots Verde River below Bartlett Dam is protect the birds to ensure their regarding this advisory can be closed to foot or vehicle entry from populations statewide continue to obtained by calling the Arizona Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through flour-ish. That success wouldn’t be Department of Transportation or is allowed, but no stopping in the possible without the cooperation of the Arizona Game and Fish river or landing is allowed. Contact outdoor recreationists who respect Department’s Terrestrial Wildlife the Tonto National Forest Cave the closures during the breeding branch at 623-236-7506. Creek Ranger District at 480-595- season.” 3300. SEASONAL CLOSURES During the 2019 breeding season, 71 Verde River Verde River at the Needle Rock young hatched and 63 reached the A closure for the Verde River below Recreation area is closed to foot and important milestone of their first Sycamore Canyon Wilderness is not vehicle entry on the east and flight, known as fledging. planned this year unless the eagle portions of the west side of the river pair resumes nesting. Verde River from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating To further protect the eagles, various below Sycamore Canyon Wilderness through is allowed, but no stopping land and wildlife management may be closed to foot and vehicle in the river or landing on the east agencies will also close areas around entry from Dec. 1 to June 15. side of the river is allowed. Contact breeding locations, including near Floating through is allowed, but the Tonto National Forest, Cave popular recreation sites. contact the Coconino National Creek Ranger District, 480-595- Forest, Red Rock Ranger District of- 3300. Pilots are reminded to maintain the fice for more information at 928- FAA-recommended 2,000-foot 203-7500 or 928-203-2900. Tonto Creek above ground level advisory when Tonto Creek from Gisela to 76 flying over bald eagle habitat, while Verde River near Chasm Creek is Ranch is closed to vehicle, foot drones and paragliders are asked to closed to foot and vehicle entry from entry, and floating through from avoid the areas completely. Bald Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating through Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the eagles are sensitive to even short is allowed. Contact Prescott National Tonto National Forest Tonto Basin durations of low-flying aircraft Ranger District at 928-467-3200.
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the shoreline may be closed to foot from March 1 through Aug. 31. Tonto Creek inlet to Roosevelt Lake entry from March 1 through July 31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves is closed to vehicle and foot entry Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Black Mesa Ranger within 1,000 feet of the nest on land National Forest Springerville Ranger District at 928-535-7300. and to watercraft within 300 feet on District at 928-333-6200. water from Dec. 1 to June 30. TIPS FOR VISITING EAGLE Contact the Tonto National Forest Horseshoe Lake AREAS Tonto Basin Ranger District at 602- Depending on the nesting location, a If you are visiting bald eagle country, 225-5395. portion of the lake may be closed an advance call to the local land from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the management agency, such as the Salt River Arizona Game and Fish Department local U.S. Forest Service district Salt River from Horseshoe Bend to at 623-236-7506. office, or the Arizona Game and Redmond Flat allows watercraft to Fish Department may help to plan float through, but no stopping in the Lake Pleasant your trip to avoid disturbing bald river or landing is allowed from Dec. No vehicle, watercraft or foot entry eagles. By following these simple 1 to June 30. Contact the Tonto is allowed into a portion of the guidelines, we can all help ensure National Forest Globe Ranger Lower Agua Fria Arm from Dec. 15 that our living wildlife legacy will last District at 928-402-6200. to June 15. Contact Maricopa for generations to come: Salt River near Meddler Point is County Parks and Recreation at 928- closed to vehicle and foot entry 501-1710. Enjoy bald eagles from outside within 1,000 feet of the nest on land the closures, which are marked and to watercraft within 300 feet on Luna Lake with signs and/or buoys. Watch water from Dec. 1 to June 30. The north side of Luna Lake is from a distance using a spotting Contact the Tonto National Forest closed to vehicle and foot traffic scope, binoculars or telephoto Tonto Basin Ranger at District 602- from Jan. 1 to June 15. Contact camera lens. 225-5395. Apache National Forest Alpine Anyone approached by a Ranger District at 928-339-5000. nestwatcher and asked to cease Salt River below Stewart Mountain an activity or leave a closed area Dam is closed to vehicle or foot Lynx Lake should comply. A few good entry on the south side of the river A portion of the lake’s east side is places to see bald eagles without from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating closed to vehicle and foot traffic disturbing them — during through is allowed. Contact the from Dec. 1 to June 30. Contact the December and January — are at Tonto National Forest Mesa Ranger Prescott National Forest Bradshaw Lake Mary and Mormon Lake District at 480-610-3300. Ranger District at 928-443-8000. near Flagstaff, on the Verde Salt River near Goldfield-Kerr Fire Canyon Train in Clarkdale or Station is closed to foot and vehicle Show Low Lake Roosevelt Lake. entry on the north side of the river A portion of the lake may be closed Bald eagles protecting an active from Dec. 1 to June 30. Floating to watercraft and a portion of the nest will let you know if you are through is allowed. Contact the shore-line may be closed to foot too close. If a bald eagle is Tonto National Forest Mesa Rang-er entry from March 1 through Aug. vocalizing and circling the area District at 480-610-3300. 31. Contact the Apache-Sitgreaves frantically, you are too close and National Forest Lakeside Ranger need to leave the area quickly. Crescent Lake District at 928-368-2100. Bald eagles incubating eggs or A portion of the west side is closed brooding small young should to all entry from March 1 through White Horse Lake never be off the nest for more Aug. 31. Contact the Apache- A portion of the shoreline may be than 15 minutes. Sitgreaves National Forest closed to foot entry from March 1 to Help from anglers is especially Springerville Ranger District at 928- Aug. 31. Contact the Kaibab needed. Fishing line and tackle 333-6200. National Forest Williams Ranger have killed two nestlings and District at 928-635-5600. been found in two-thirds of all Greer Lakes bald eagle nests in the state. (Tunnel and River) Not enacted Woods Canyon Lake Every year biologists remove unless pair moves nesting location A portion of the lake may be closed these lethal hazards from nests — Portions of the lakes may be to watercraft and a portion of the and/or entangled nestlings. closed to watercraft and a portion of shore-line is closed to foot entry Discard any fishing line Page 14
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properly in specially-marked fauna, including the soaring, iconic on to the Saguaro Desert and fringed recycling containers or at fishing saguaro cacti that are native to the by the looming Bulldog Cliffs and stores. Also, use fresh line that Sonoran. winding Salt River, and offers isn’t old and brittle. Use the horseback trail rides to clients of all correct test line for the fish you “Saguaros can grow to be 18 metres levels (children must be aged seven are trying to catch. Also, do not tall and can have as many as 25 and over). cut the line when an undesirable arms,” he calls as we meander past fish is caught and return it to prickly pair cacti, giving the I put my faith in 101’s capable hoofs the water with the hook and line notorious jumping cholla – as we clip-clop over cactus-studded attached. pronounced choya – a particularly ridges, the movie-set-worthy Duck hunters should scout out wide berth. Due to their easily Goldfield Mountains glowing gold, their hunting area to ensure that detachable spines, a close encounter then ember orange as the sun sinks bald eagles are not nesting with a “cholla ain’t no joy-a”, we’d behind the horizon. nearby. been warned. With its beautiful location and dining You can help bald eagle research and On a pit stop, we learn how the room complete with fireplace and recovery efforts by reporting any Native American communities lived saguaro skeleton centrepiece, it’s harassment or shooting of bald – and continue to live – off this unsurprising the ranch is a popular eagles. Call the Arizona Game and seemingly inhospitable land, using wedding venue. Its 20 cabins are Fish Operation Game Thief Hotline leaves from fragrant creosote trees in rustic, kitted out with Western-style at 800-352-0700 or U.S. Fish and their medicines and burning the rugs and blankets. Wildlife Service Law Enforcement at cholla cacti to be able to cut them 480-967-7900. open and eat the juicy, vitamin C- “We don’t have TVs, phones or rich flesh within (The Fort clocks in our cabins,” says Dale McDowell Off-Road Segway Tour is Hahne, the ranch’s general manager. ADVENTURING IN £74.27pp on Viator). “We want people to come here to THE WILD WEST OF get off the grid and enjoy nature.” Though I feel worlds away from city ARIZONA life, we’re actually a stone’s throw As well as offering kayaking FEATURES16 DEC away from Mesa, a city east of excursions on the man-made 2019BY ABRA DUNSBY Phoenix that serves as an excellent Saguaro Lake and Lower Salt river, Mesa in Arizona has outdoor gateway to Arizona’s impressive the hotel also puts on tubing trips in adventure, desert landscapes and outdoor adventure offering. spring and summer. Old Western history right on its doorstep In the evenings, guests dine together alfresco at cowboy cookouts where As I zigzag through the scorched, beef sizzles on the barbecue and dusty plains of the Sonoran Desert, I local musicians strum catchy country think of this land’s Native American ditties. ancestors and wonder what they’d make of me, whirring through the wilderness on a Segway.
While arguably not the hippest mode of transport, the Segways we’re using The desert maeks you feel worlds away from city life on our tour with Adventures Out West make it incredibly easy to travel BACK AT THE RANCH through the dry, sun-washed terrain At Mesa’s incredibly scenic Saguaro of the 25,000-acre Fort McDowell Lake Guest Ranch in Tonto Yavapai Nation area near Mesa, National Forest, I opt for a more Arizona. archetypal Old West mode of The Grand Canyon's epic terrain transport, taking a sunset ride on my Thanks to our Stetson-toting, white- salt-and-pepper dappled horse, 101. GOLD RUSH PAST moustachioed guide Don, it’s also a Arizona’s desert landscapes and great way to learn about flora and The ranch has its own stable backing fabled Superstition Mountains have
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acted as both a refuge and danger to eagles and cormorants in the the various communities who have surrounding Superstitions. called this land home, from Native American tribes and heroes, such as Apache warrior Geronimo, to gold- rush enthusiasts.
At the Superstition Mountain Museum, our guide Stan explains the Superstitions are so- called because "Estrella Mountain Regional Park offers stargazing many Native American tribes and an opportunity to learn about the moon, planets, nebulae and galaxies." actually avoided them, believing PT File Photo them to be sacred to the gods of Arizona’s desert landscapes are both thunder, and only retreated there a refuge and danger As it starts to cool down in the when they were forced to hide from Valley, Girl Scouts– Arizona Cactus- non-native invaders. DESERT ICON Pine Council (GSACPC) wants to I’m lucky enough on this trip to view remind West Valley residents about With its Native American artefacts the surprisingly lush Sonoran from amazing opportunities to explore the and mock- up of a gunfighters’ many perspectives, including from outdoors – right in your backyard. cemetery, the museum offers a the top of Wind Cave Trail at Usery Check out these Girl Scout approved fascinating slice of Old West history. Mountain Regional Park after an ideas for getting in touch with nature hour-long hike, and while floating and exploring all the West Valley has It also tells the legend of the Lost above it on an epic sunrise hot air to offer. Dutchman Mine, discovered by balloon ride. prospector Jacob Waltz during the Go Horseback Riding Arizona gold rush in the 1850s. He Its saguaros are a true point of GSACPC Girl Scouts learn to care died without revealing its location. fascination, not only for me but for for and ride horses at Camp Maripai the many locals I meet, who each and you can too with year-round Somewhat bizarrely, it even has its seem to have a fact about these horse programming. own Elvis Memorial Chapel, which icons of the desert. Visit girlscoutsaz.org/activities for featured in 1969 Western Charro! upcoming horse clinics, badge starring the King himself. One of my favourites is recounted sessions and more details on the by our guide Stan at the Superstition popular summer camp sessions at The museum is one of many Mountain Museum, who tells me: Camp Maripai. attractions to be found along the “The Tohono O’odham people Apache Trail, a 65-mile driving route believe that when you pass away, you Master horse riding skills and in the Mesa-Phoenix area that was become a saguaro.” practice at the many horseback once a journey for Apache tribes and riding trails at Estrella Mountain later for prospectors on their way to With their arms bending upwards Regional Park. Estrella Park offers seek their fortunes. towards the heavens and their over 33 miles of trails accessible for strong, sturdy trunks, I can see why horseback riding s. The park is open On this scenic drive, clients can also – these guys have a true sense of year-round from 6 a.m.-8 p.m. visit Goldfield Ghost Town, an old presence and, like Arizona itself, Sunday through Thursday and 6 mining town where clients can take leave an unforgettable impression. a.m.-10 p.m. Vehicle entry to the underground mine tours, grab a beer park starts at $7. For more in the saloon-style bar and watch West Valley Girl information, daily “gunfights” presented by the visit maricopacountyparks.net. Goldfield Gunfighters. Scouts suggest winter outdoor Hike to a Waterfall Other points of interest along the Go on a two-mile trek on the White trail include Canyon Lake, where adventures Tank Mountain Regional Park, clients can hop onboard Dolly By Annelise Krafft, Peoria Times Waterfall Trail hike. The trail is rated Steamboat for a scenic journey, Guest Writer family-friendly, for beginners and spotting big-horned sheep, bald Dec 14, 2019 dogs. Girl Scout tip: Hike this trail a
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day or two after it has rained to see Park entry is free, with trails open Dec 4, 2019 some water! from sunrise to sunset and gates The park is open year-round from 6 closing at 10 p.m. For more a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday through information on how to rent a Thursday and 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday campsite and pricing, please and Saturday. Vehicle entry to the visit buckeyeaz.gov/residents/skylin park starts at $7. e-regional-park. Visit maricopacountyparks.net for more information on White Tank While enjoying the outdoors, Mountain Regional Park. GSACPC also recommends a few tips to help you stay safe. Go Stargazing From left: Levi Shoemaker, Martin Fuller, Sam Monson and Griffin Solle all represented Desert Estrella Mountain Regional Park Stay hydrated – Girl Scout Vista on the podium in the final race of the 2019 offers stargazing and an opportunity tip: pack a reusable water Arizona Interscholastic Cycling League season. to learn about the moon, planets, bottle to eliminate waste. Courtesy Shana Dale nebulae and galaxies. This program Tell someone where you’re is included in the day-use park entry Two riders on Desert Vista High going. School’s mountain bike team placed fee. Pack light and Leave No for state in their respective divisions Trace. to end the season. The park is open year-round from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Whether protecting the environment Martin Fuller, a junior at Desert Thursday and 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. or just having fun, Girl Scouts love Vehicle entry to the park starts at $7. Vista, and Griffin Solle, a freshman, spending time outdoors. Getting both represented the Thunder on The cost for stargazing events is outside is one of GSACPC’s included in the day-use park entry the state podium at the fifth and program pillars, and there are plenty final race of the Arizona fee. For more information on of opportunities for local Girl Scouts upcoming stargazing dates, Interscholastic Cycling League to enjoy nature and more during season on Nov. 2-3 at the White visit maricopacountyparks.net. summer camp, from outdoor Tank Mountain Regional Park in cooking and hiking to archery, Waddell. Visit Luke Air Force Base canoeing, arts and crafts, games and Schedule a tour to Luke Airforce singing. Fuller, who competed in the JV2 Base and you can get the opportunity to learn about the air Central Conference, placed first With four different camps and one overall after ending the season with traffic control tower, aircrew flight located in Metro Phoenix, the equipment and the explosive 1,996 points throughout the five Parsons Leadership Center for Girls races this season. Fuller beat out ordnance disposal facilities on base. and Women at Camp South Luke Days 2020 is coming up in Cactus Shadows sophomore Alex Mountain located just 26 miles Hernandez and Horizon sophomore March. outside of the West Valley, Girl Tour season is open September Guy Randolph for the title. Scout Summer Camp is accessible to through March, with tours open to any and all interested girls – whether the general public on Tuesdays from Solle, who raced in the freshman they are Girl Scouts or not. Central Conference, finished the 9 a.m.-noon. The tour request form is available online at luke.af.mil. For season fourth overall with 1,873 More information on 2020 Girl points. Solle, along with Fuller, were more information on Luke Days Scout Summer Camp will be 2020, please visit luke.af.mil/Luke- two of four racers representing available this January. To learn more Desert Vista on the podium in the Days-2020. about how to register, tiered pricing final race. and financial assistance options, Go Camping please visit girlscoutsaz.org. Camp at one of seven campsites Sam Monson, a junior, and Levi available at Skyline Regional Park in Shoemaker, a seventh-grader at Buckeye. Create memories exploring Thunder mountain Altadena Middle School racing with Desert Vista, were the two other the rest of the park during the day bikers share state and unwind listening to music, podium placers for the Thunder. testing your outdoor cooking skills title podium and stargazing at night. . By Zach Alvira, AFN Sports Editor “Griffin and Martin were both new to the team this year,” Desert Vista Page 17
Press Coverage December 2019
mountain bike coach Mike Dale said County Park. There was a two-week in an email. “Griffin has a gap between each race, which took background of successful road bike place in Prescott, Fort Huachuca, racing, while Martin has been an Fountain Hills and most recently, accomplished cross country runner. Waddell. Both were able to participate in their first Mountain Bike Race with us and Out of his now three seasons found success very quickly. It was coaching the team, Dale admits this simply awe-inspiring to see how hard season was the most memorable. they both worked this season.” Every week was filled with great competition from Desert Vista and It’s Desert Vista’s seventh season other teams. But most importantly, competing in the AICL, which has the team had fun. 75 total teams taking part in the league, including Mountain Pointe “We were able to introduce many and several others across the East new riders to the world of mountain Valley. The Thunder have grown biking and give them the base skills each season, adding both boy and for a lifetime of fitness,” Dale said. girl riders as young as the sixth “The race results and success were grade. This year, Desert Vista was the icing on the cake. The supportive represented by 28 riders. culture of this team is unique and very special.” While some are experienced, others are competing for the first time. For more information on Desert Dale believes this creates a balance Vista’s mountain bike team or the on his team and thus, makes them Arizona Interscholastic Cycling come together to help each other League, learn. visit http://www.arizonamtb.org.
“We take great care to help all of our riders develop their riding skills and endurance by breaking the riders up into smaller groups to focus on what they need,” Dale said. “At the start of the season, we work with each rider to assess their current state and create a plan for them to improve throughout the season.
“Anyone with a positive attitude, willingness to work hard and participate, will find an amazing community of riders and families to support them.”
Each rider is responsible for buying their own mountain bike and necessary equipment. The team has set up a support network to assist riders, however, so those looking to participate aren’t held back in any way.
The 2019 race schedule began on Sep. 7 in Flagstaff at the Fort Tuthill
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