

Chris Picciuolo
News reporter
(480) 274-7252 - Chris.Picciuolo@SRPMIC-nsn.gov
Chris Picciuolo is from Aurora, Illinois. Previously, he worked as a photojournalist for the Ak-Chin O'odham Runner Newspaper in Ak-Chin, Arizona, and as news editor and production specialist at NCTV17 in Naperville, Illinois.


Six SRFD Firefighters Promoted to Company Officers
Six Salt River Fire Department staff were promoted to company officers with the title of captain at the Accelerated Learning Academy Lecture Hall on April 22. Capt. Anthony Garcia, Capt. Cris Ries, Capt. Ramon Arenas Jr., Capt. Chris Gannon, Capt. Adrian Vega and Capt. Xavier Martinez were welcomed into their...

Talking Stick Resort Turns 15
“15 Years. Well played!” Talking Stick Resort’s slogan for 15 years in business says it all. The Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community’s successful enterprise celebrated in style during the month of April with epic giveaways and a special event for Community members. As a “thank you” to Community members, the...

Tribal Veterans Meet with Arizona Governor to See Removed Flags
The flags representing Arizona’s 22 federally recognized tribes were removed from the Carl T Hayden Veterans’ Administration Medical Center in Phoenix on March 18, but now they have a new home at the Arizona Capitol rotunda in downtown Phoenix. According to a news release by the Department of Veteran Affairs,...

Earth Day Celebrated with Environmental Fair and Household Hazardous Waste Event
The first Earth Day was held on April 22, 1970. An emerging public awareness of air, water and land pollution led several individuals, including peace activist John McConnell, Arthur J. Hanson, former Sen. Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin and many others, to organize the day after witnessing devastating damage to the...

Sexual Assault Survivors Supported with Encouraging Words at Chalk N’ Walk
Editor’s Note: This story contains sensitive subject matter that readers may find upsetting. “I believe you.” “You are not alone; there are countless others standing with you.” “You are resilient.” These are just a handful of the many messages of hope, strength and belief for victims of sexual assault that...

Capt. Steve Wood Retires
Salt River Fire Department Capt. Steve Wood officially retired on February 21 after 36 years of service to the fire department. Wood began with the SRFD on December 28, 1989, and held the captain title since July 2002. The SRFD held a luncheon for Wood at Station 294, at which...

Towing Safety: A Beginner’s Guide to Safely Towing a Trailer
By Brian Gewecke/Chris Picciuolo Towing a trailer can be intimidating for beginners, but understanding the key components and proper procedures will help ensure a safe and smooth experience. Whether you’re new to towing or an experienced driver, these safety tips will guide you through the basics. Key Towing Components Choosing...

Join the Mesa Public Schools Native American Education Program’s Parent Advisory Committee
Loriann Zambrano is the new president/chairperson for the Mesa Public Schools Native American Education Program’s (NAEP) Parent Advisory Committee, a group that represents Native families who have students in the Mesa Public Schools system. The committee assists in planning cultural activities, provides cultural support and insight and assists in implementing...