Family thanks searchers as hunt continues for hiker missing in Uintas

SALT LAKE CITYThe family of a 74-year-old hiker from Arizona missing since Monday voiced their appreciation for diligent teams combing the High Uintas as search efforts continued Wednesday.
"We continue to be hopeful because we know Mel and his love of the outdoors," the family of Melvin Heaps said in a statement Wednesday, thanking searchers for their work and friends and family for their support.
Heaps, who usually sets out hiking whenever he visits family in the Salt Lake area, had planned to