With the weather changing and summer fast approaching, those of us in the southern parts of Arizona like to find cooler locations in our state to visit to escape from the heat.

Payson and Pine are always favorite spots because of pleasant mountain temperatures, beautiful scenery, fun unique shops and special events to enjoy. To tempt you to head north, we want to call some happenings in that area to your attention.

On May 3-5, the Payson Art League will sponsor its 12th annual “Neath the Rim Open Studio Tour.” From Friday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 21 local juried artists will exhibits a variety of media in 16 studio locations. Admission is free and maps are available at the Rim Country Chamber of Commerce, 100 W. Main Street, or the Payson Public Library, 328 N McLane Rd. Demonstrations are planned along with a raffle, and refreshments will be available. For information, contact Jan Ranson at 928-468-8593.

Local Payson and Pine shops are listed, along with a locator map, on page 10 of this issue. We have a few new shops advertising, including: Once Upon a Time Antiques in Payson and Coach House Antiques & Boutique and Auntie Gail’s Collectibles in Pine. Tymeless Antiques and Treasures has added a monthly shop call Tymeless Annex; both are located in Pine. Located on the Beeline Highway in Payson, Bella Vita Boutique has a new look.

The local organization, Pine Strawberry Business Community, has a listing of activities planned through the end of November. Check the group’s ad on page      or visit www.psbcaz.com and click on Event Calendar.

Spend a day or two—or more—browsing through all the shops and discover what is new and exciting in Payson and Pine. Be sure to tell them that The Antique Register sent you.