Governor Jan Brewer announces White Mountains "Open for Business!"

Governor tours Springerville and Big Lake to announce post-wildfire “Grand Re-Opening”

        PHOENIX – The hillsides are green, the fish are biting and the White Mountains are beautiful as ever. That much was clear today as Governor Brewer returned to Springerville and celebrated with residents the area’s ongoing recovery from the Wallow Fire.

        “I’m proud to be a part of a celebration that shows the resilience of Arizonans and the land they call home,” said Governor Brewer. “The White Mountains were beautiful before the Wallow Fire and they’re still beautiful today. I urge people to return to this magnificent part of our state and see everything it has to offer.”

        Governor Brewer travelled to Springerville and Big Lake to meet with local officials, business owners and community members to receive an update on fire recovery and flood mitigation efforts in the region. She also spread the word that large portions of the White Mountains were untouched by the Wallow Fire and open for tourism. A return of tourists is critical to helping these communities get back on their feet.

        As part of the festivities, Governor Brewer spoke at the “Grand Re-Opening” and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Big Lake General Store and Marina. Third-generation owners of the store, Rick and Clotilda Law, wanted to give the area a “rebirth” in order to move forward with a new beginning for themselves and the White Mountain area.

        While in the White Mountains, the Governor and her staff also met with U.S. Forest Service officials, clean-up crews and local sportsmen regarding post-fire conditions of the area.

        “The State of Arizona will continue to stand with area residents and businesses that were impacted by the Wallow Fire,” said Governor Brewer. “Today is a day to give thanks and show appreciation for firefighters and others who came to the aid of the wonderful communities of the White Mountains.”