CVCH Hosting Blood Drive

The Cobre Valley Community Hospital will host a Blood Drive on April 7th, with the Bloodmobile on the hospital campus parking lot at 5880 S. Hospital Dr., from 10 am - 3 pm. To schedule your appointment, call David (928) 402-1141 or Jane at (928) 402-1230 or you can register online at bloodhero.com (Sponsor Code: cobre). ALL DONORS will be automatically entered to win a $1,000 shopping spree gift card for Westcor, Cabela's or Best Buy!

Don't forget to:

* Bring your ID. A donation will not be accepted without it.
* Hydrate!
* Eat a hearty, low-fat meal before donating.

If you are not sure on donation eligibilty, call 1-800-288-2199 ext. 5497.

Old Scams Re-Emerge

The prize “checks” are from foreign lotteries, or for investment opportunities that promise triple-digit returns, “Can’t Miss” work-at-home business opportunities & “Final Warnings” for vehicle warranties. The main target for these fraudulent letters, & lottery and sweepstakes prize notifications is senior citizens. In the letters, the recipient is told that he or she has won a valuable prize through a lottery & often a fee to claim the prize is required. To make it appear more legit, some of those letters contain a “check” for some of the winnings, & ask the recipient to deposit that check & to return part of it in order to pay for fees & expenses.

Miami Memorial Library Hours (Revised)

The Miami Memorial Library has revised the time their extended hours that was sent over last week. These new hours are in effect as of today, March 31st. The hours are as follows:

Tuesday: 10 am - 6 pm
Wednesday: 10 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 2 pm
Sunday: CLOSED
Monday: CLOSED

The Miami Memorial has wireless internet access for patrons & the Teen Room is open and has 3 new computers for teen use only.

Family Movie Night

The next Pinal Mountain Elks Lodge Family Movie Night will feature the PG rated: Alvin and The Chipmunks, on April 5th, starting at 3 pm, doors open at 2:30 pm. The Pinal Mountain Elks Lodge BPOE #2809 is located at 1775 E. Maple St. in Globe. Grab your pillow, pull up a blanket or bring your bean bag! Children must be accompanied by someone 12 or Older! Tickets are $1 while supplies last/first come first served. Popcorn, Soda & Candy will be for sale.

Todd Murphy and Kent Wilson To Appear At The River of Life Church

Todd Murphy and Kent Wilson of Micaiah Ministries will be at the River of Life Church on 5667 E Golden Hill Rd, in Globe (4-way stop in Central Heights) on Wednesday and Thursday April 2nd & 3rd, at 7 pm. For additional info, call the church at (928) 425-2349.

Free Seminar for Realtors In Pinal County

Imagine being told you could not rent or purchase a home because of your skin color, age, religion, disability or family status. It isn’t fair & it’s against the law. Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental & financing of homes or other dwellings.

The Pinal County Housing Division along with the City of Casa Grande Housing Department will again offer the free fair housing class for housing providers. The class will take place at the City of Casa Grande Council Chambers located at 510 E. Florence Boulevard on Thursday, April 24th, from 1 pm until 4 pm. Pre-registration is required no later than Friday, April 18th. To register, please call the Pinal County Housing Authority at 520-866-7203.

Realtors will be happy to know the class is authorized for credit from the Arizona Department of Real Estate. It will give realtors 3 hours of fair housing continuing education for re-licensing.

Some DVDs Out This Week

Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle (Extreme Unrated Edition)
Maximum MMA Presents: X-1 - Grand Prix 2007
Terry Jones: Medieval Lives
Bob Marley: Catch A Fire (Special Edition)
Woody Guthrie: This Machine Kills Fascists
Martin - The Complete 4th Season
Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street
The Return of Swamp Thing
Law and Order: Special Victims Unit - The 6th Year
Alvin and the Chipmunks
Eye of the Beast
The Cook
Beware of My Love
Becker - The 1st Season
Father Knows Best: Season 1
Farm Aid: 20th Anniversary
What Love Is
Flatt & Scruggs TV Show - Vol. 5
Flatt & Scruggs TV Show - Vol. 6
Steve Byrne: Happy Hour
The Bette Davis Collection, Vol. 3
Sitting Bull: A Stone in My Heart
That '70s Show - Season 8
Opry Video Classics
The Cutting Edge - Chasing the Dream
The Good Night
Hello Mary Lou: Prom Night II
John from Cincinnati - The Complete 1st Season
Murder, She Wrote - The Complete 8th Season

Some Country/Folk CDs Out This Week

Willie Nelson - One Hell Of a Ride (4-CD Box Set)
Various Artists - Outlaw Country
George Strait - Troubadour
Kathy Mattea - Coal
Josh Gracin - We Weren't Crazy
Aaron Watson - Angels & Outlaws

Go BLUE For Child Abuse Awareness

Close to 10,000 children in Arizona are currently in out-of-home care due to abuse or neglect. To raise awareness of this alarming statistic, the Arizona CASA Program, a volunteer-based organization that trains community volunteers to speak up for abused & neglected children in court, announced a campaign to bring attention to child abuse prevention this April. Go BLUE with CASA is a grassroots awareness effort designed to educate Arizona's residents about child abuse prevention & the work CASA is doing on behalf of children.

This April, the campaign, Go BLUE with CASA will help kick off National Child Abuse Prevention Month. In observance of this national recognition, Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano has proclaimed April 20th - 26th, 2008 as Go BLUE with CASA for Child Abuse Awareness Week. As part of this special week, Arizona CASA will encourage community members to join together & celebrate the hope for abused children everywhere by going BLUE.

"This is an easy way for every person to become involved in raising awareness about child abuse," said Bonnie Marcus, Program Manager, Arizona CASA Program. "You don't have to work in the child welfare field to have an impact-wear blue, wear a ribbon, wear a button! During April, let's show that Arizona understands the seriousness & scope of this issue."

Want to Go BLUE? Put a Go Blue with CASA window cling in your car during April or wear a CASA button. Go to the Arizona CASA website, azcasa.org, to learn more about the advocacy work this organization is doing in your community & download a flyer to distribute at work, school, or church. Ask your favorite restaurant to GO BLUE by posting CASA flyers, displaying CASA table tents, or using CASA placemats. Or, simply tell your family & friends about the work CASA is doing to fight child abuse. For more information about how you can GO BLUE with CASA visit azcasa.org, & click on the link for Go BLUE, or call (602) 452-3683.

CVCH Hosting Blood Drive

The Cobre Valley Community Hospital will host a Blood Drive on April 7th, with the Bloodmobile on the hospital campus parking lot at 5880 S. Hospital Dr., from 10 am - 3 pm. To schedule your appointment, call David (928) 402-1141 or Jane at (928) 402-1230 or you can register online at bloodhero.com (Sponsor Code: cobre).

New Phoenix Area Off-Highway Vehicle & Leaf Blower Rules Start In April

ADEQ Director Steve Owens announced that new limits on the use of leaf blowers & Off-Highway Vehicles will take effect during earlyApril. The new regulations are being issued according to the provisions of Senate Bill 1552, which Gov. Janet Napolitano signed into law last July.

Under the new law, as of April 1st, the use of leaf blowers to blow debris into a street, or to use a blower on dirt fields, road shoulders or loose dirt is prohibited. ADEQ is publishing training materials for leaf-blower operators, which is part of mandatory training for operators employed by counties & municipalities. In addition, the law requires sellers or renters of leaf blowers to distribute an informational leaflet produced by ADEQ about the new law: azdeq.gov/environ/air/blower.html.

In addition, effective April 8th, cities & counties in the Phoenix metropolitan area are required to limit the recreational use of Off-Highway Vehicles on days when a High Pollution Advisory (HPA) is ineffect & to restrict parking & use of all vehicles on unpaved or unstabilized vacant lots, except when a dust-control permit has beenissued. A map of areas affected: azdeq.gov/environ/air/prevent/images/ohv.jpg.

Director Owens noted that Gov. Napolitano has banned the use of leaf blowers & other gasoline-powered landscape maintenance equipment on state property in Maricopa, Pima & Pinal counties since last June.

The new limits will help to bring Arizona into compliance with federal particulate-matter air quality standards by 2010, Owens said. "We have made progress reducing automobile emissions, but dust generated by off-road sources remains a major source of air pollution," Owens said. "With the new restrictions, people who use leaf blowers & Off-Highway Vehicles will be doing their part to help make the air cleaner & healthier to breathe."

In addition, the public can sign up to receive HPA alerts by text message or email: azdeq.gov/sms.html or azdeq.gov/subscribe.html.

AERO Supports Proposed Economic Stimulus Program

The Arizona Economic Resource Organization (AERO) board has unanimously passed a resolution to support the proposed Economic Stimulus Program. The proposal would stimulate Arizona's economy by immediately authorizing $1.4 billion in capital projects for Arizona's three Universities & the Phoenix Biomedical Campus, & would support an estimated 30,000 jobs.

The direct impact of this effort would create approx. 14,438 new jobs, with an estimated indirect impact of another 16,660 jobs. Over $1.9 billion will be added to the State's Gross Domestic Product during the construction phase while over $1.4 billion in household income will accrue to Arizonans. The estimated combined state & local tax revenue will be $140 million during construction alone.

DPS Investigating Haifley And Two Others

DPS is heading a probe into Pinal County Fair Director, Terry Haifley and two other employees after financial irregularities came to light. All three are currently on administrative leave during this investigation.

Mother’s Day Essay Contest for Arizona's Adopted Children

“What My Mother Means to Me” is the theme of AASK’s Mother’s Day Essay Contest, 2008. Any child adopted from Arizona ’s foster care system is invited to submit a one page essay. There are two categories; kids aged 6 to 10 and kids aged 11-18. All entries must be received by mail, fax or email by Wed., April 23rd.

Winners will be announced the first week of May. Winners will receive a prize package that will include personalized jewelry from Schmitt’s Jewelers, a day of house cleaning from Bella House Cleaning Services & a box of Cerreta’s Chocolates.

Rules and a downloadable entry form can be found at aask-az.org.

Candlelight Memorial Service

On April 1st, you will be able to join others in support of lost loved ones at the Church of the Nazarene, 105 Holly Road in Globe from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm. You may bring a photo of your loved one to display on the Memorial Table that Trinity Hospice will have setup. Please join them for this special Candlelight Memorial Service.

Pinal County Makes The Grade

Pinal County leaders are pleased with a comeback that earned solid B marks & 1 B-plus on Valley Forward’s 2008 Environmental Report Card. The county had previously scored 2 D-plusses, a B-minus & a C-minus in the last Report Card issued in 2004.

Valley Forward’s “Making the Grade: The Valley’s 2008 Environmental Report Scorecard” was the subject of a presentation on March 26th, in Phoenix. Valley Forward issues the report every 4 years. Pinal County was lauded for its efforts to raise its score in all measures.

“To be clear, we aspire for straight A’s,” Board of Supervisors’ Chairman David Snider said. “The last report card was in 2004. Considering the unprecedented growth Pinal County has experienced, a sizeable recovery this significant deserves high praise indeed. It shows that we have a proactive stance & are adding value to our communities.”

“Amidst enormous growth & pressures from all corners of the County, we managed to keep demand with that growth, while improving our air, land use & transportation planning,” Supervisor Lionel Ruiz said. “I am proud of our staff & leadership for achieving this dramatic recovery.”

Its report states that the goal of Valley Forward’s Report Card is to “examine how communities across the Valley are individually & collectively addressing common issues that impact the quality of life for residents here & for those who will choose to make this their home in the future.” The report rates cities & towns on Air, Land, Transportation & Water. Counties are not rated on water issues because municipalities typically govern water use & utilities. Previous reports, like the one in 2004, gave separate scores for Open Space/Recreation & Land Use.

“Sustainability & environmental responsibility are the focus of the 2008 Pinal County Town Hall,” Sandie Smith said. “Pinal County’s population will continue growing long after I leave office. My hope is that current & future leaders keep a watchful eye on protecting the environment, improving quality of life & creating communities that borrow gently from our natural resources.”

Valley Forward’s Report Card is a compilation of research by staff & volunteers. Although Pinal County encompasses a land mass greater than the entire state of Connecticut, several growth areas & economies are tied to the growth dynamics of the Phoenix metro region.

The report by Valley Forward concludes that “despite significant increases in population across the board since our 2004 Report Card, Valley communities are still doing a better than average job of managing natural resources & responding to growth issues.”

Pinal County is praised for its commitment to improving air quality through better awareness, monitoring, voluntary trip reduction & vanpool programs, & a commitment that future County buildings will meet LEED standards (Leadership in Energy Efficiency & Design adopted by the US Green Building Council) as well as efforts to reduce energy & water consumption at county facilities. Pinal County has also adopted the 2007 International Energy Code, which allows for alternative energy & construction projects.

The County’s highest score, a B-plus, came in the Land Use category. Valley Forward specifically praised the county’s Growth Planning Initiative. The report also noted the county’s coordination with its neighbors on planning & open space preservation.

Where Pinal County managed to overtake its giant neighbor to the north was in the area of transportation. Maricopa County earned a C-plus while Pinal scored a B. Valley Forward gave Pinal high marks for regional planning & coordination but cautioned leaders to also look at “a more multi-modal approach” to address growth demands.

All 3 Supervisors were in agreement that approaching livability issues at a regional level is a factor in the improved grades. Pinal County is taking a leadership role in bringing municipalities and stakeholders together in a series of summits to address key regional issues such as air quality, transportation, planning & development & health & human services. The result has been a significant improvement in dialogue between parties to solve current issues & plan for future growth.

Valley Forward is a non-profit business-based environmental organization founded in 1969. The organization “focuses on livability & sustainability of Valley municipalities” as stated in its report.

Pinal County Fair-goers Warned Of I-10 Road Closure

Phoenix area residents who are planning to attend the Pinal County Fair this weekend should be aware of a road closure on I-10.

According to the Arizona Dept. of Transportation (ADOT) eastbound I-10 will be closed from Ray Road to the southbound loop of the 202 (Santan Freeway). ADOT crews will be paving that section of eastbound I-10 & the road will be closed beginning March 28th, at 11 pm & will reopen on 5 am March 31st.

An alternate route to the Pinal County Fairgrounds would be taking the US 60 east to S. Country Club Drive (Highway 87) exit. Head south on Highway 87 through Chandler & reconnect with eastbound I-10 near Bapchule.

The exit off eastbound I-10 for the Pinal County Fairgrounds is Highway 287, proceed west approx. 10 miles to Eleven Mile Corner.

Drive safely & enjoy the Pinal County Fair!

Pinal County Democratic Party Holding Picnic

The Pinal County Democrats are hosting a major picnic event on April 5th, to bring Democrats together & introduce several candidates for office.

The picnic will feature a special guest & is from noon to 4 pm at Heritage Park, at 600 N. Main in Florence. The $15 admission fee includes a picnic meal, live music, raffles, games for all ages, & an opportunity to socialize with Democratic voters & candidates. The event is free for children under 10.

Joe Robison, chairman of the Pinal County Democratic Party, said the picnic's official theme this year is "Out the Gate in 2008." Robison added: "This is an event for Democrats across Pinal County. Enthusiasm among Democrats is higher than ever. Pinal County will play a key role in the 2008 election, just as we did in 2006."

The Party's last picnic was held at the Pinal County Fairgrounds & attracted almost 400 people. Organizers expect this year's event to draw an even larger crowd.

For more information about the event & to purchase tickets, call (520) 868-0072 or visit the Pinal County Democratic Headquarters at 350 N. Main in Florence.

Fourth Annual Native American Family Wellness Day

Bring the whole family; you're invited to attend the Fourth Annual Native American Family Wellness Day on April 5th, at the El Pueblo Regional Park & Recreation Center in the Activity Center at 101 W. Irvington, that's the SW corner of 6th & Irvington, in Tucson.

It's all free, there's no charge for registration or parking. Raffle prizes & t-shirts will be given out. The day begins at 7 am with an energizing fun run/walk (including a competitive run) & will end with a social dance from 4-6 pm. The Opening Ceremony is at 9 am & throughout the day there will be interactive workshops, health screenings, food demonstrations, arts & craft booths, fun childrens activities, & Mary Kim Titla (San Carlos Apache), Publisher of Native Youth Magazine & former TV news reporter is the featured keynote speaker at 2 pm. Food vendors will be on-site.

M.U.S.D. Superintendent Nelson Issues Statement On Recent Report

First and foremost, Miami Unified School District is not a failing district. Dr. Charles A. Bejarano Elementary School has been labeled as a failing school. Each school receives two seperate labels, one from the Federal Government and one from ADE. Both are tied to No Child Left Behind.

The Federal label is AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress). AYP is based on percent of students tested, if the test objectives were met, and student attendance. Each school must test 95% of students, have 43% or higher competency and improve by 10% each year, Charles A. Bejarano Elementary School did not meet AYP in the 2005-2006 school year, but did in 2004-2005 and 2006-2007.

The ADE label is Excelling, Performing Plus, Performing, Underperforming and Failing. ADE's labels are based on a three-year rolling average and a formula that incorporates current year scores with overall averages. A school earns points based on percent of students that meet or exceeds on the AIMS test and if there was growth over a three year period. Each year the criteria, or cut scores, have changed for schools to be labeled Performing or above. A total point needed to be performing is 13. Dr. Charles Bejarano School scored 12.6, 11.8, and 12.8 in the three years of testing. If a school is Underperforming for three consecutive years, it is labeled as Failing.

When the labels came out last Spring, the principal appealed the rating because several students were listed as attending Dr. Bejarano School an were in fact not our students. The following is a direct quote from ADE concerning the school's status.

"The ADE appeals committee has also reviewed the appeal of your schools AZ LEARNS profile. The committee agrees that the school is moving in the right direction. However, the committee feels that progress alone would not warrant changing your profile. The school will be designated as 'Failing to meet academic standards'."

The ADE Solutions Team came to Dr. Bejarano School January 23 through 25 to interview personnel, parents, and students. The team observed teachers during work hours and made recommendations to ADE.

The recommendations include hiring two ATLAS (mentor) teachers and providing a consulting principal to visit the school on a schedule to be determined for the 2008-2009 school year.

After review, ADE mandated the recommendations. Miami Unified School District has entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement with ADE specifying this mandate.

Earth Hour 2008

Millions of people around the world are joining together to make a statement about climate change by turning their lights off on March 29th, from 8 - 9 pm local time. It's called Earth Hour & if you'd like to sign-up to participate, visit: earthhour.org/sign-up. So far, 25 cities around the world are taking part, including Atlanta, Chicago, Phoenix & San Francisco.

Miami Memorial Library Expands Hours

The Miami Memorial Library is extending their hours to the public effective March 31st. The hours will be as follows:

Tuesday: 10 am - 6 pm
Wednesday: 10 am – 6 pm
Thursday: 10 am – 6 pm
Friday: 10 am – 5 pm
Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm
Sunday: CLOSED
Monday: CLOSED

The Miami Memorial has wireless access for the patrons. The Teen Room is now open & has 3 new computers for teen use only.

Napolitano Proclaims April As "Financial Literacy Month"

Governor Janet Napolitano has proclaimed the month of April 2008 as "Financial Literacy Month" in Arizona.

Stacy Dillard Revival

Stacy Dillard will speak at church services on March 30th, at 11 am & 6:30 pm, at the Globe Christian Center at 509 East Maple St., just north of the Globe High School. Special services will continue March 31st to April 2nd, with a service at 7 pm each night. Everyone is welcome to attend. A nursery will be provided. For more information call, 425-7846.

Pinal County Issues 180-Day Hiring Delay

Beginning immediately, Pinal County Government is instituting a 180-day hiring delay for all vacancies except for public safety positions & positions of vital necessity.

During a presentation at Wednesday’s Board meeting, County Manager Terry Doolittle said projections put the budget shortfall at $13 million. Doolittle said lower figures from sales taxes along with a downturn in new construction had not only hit Pinal County, but other areas as well.

“Last year we were issuing 300 to 400 building permits a year,” the County Manager said. “Today we are looking at just under one hundred for this fiscal year.”

Savings from the hiring delays are expected to be $2.3 million. Other measures have been enacted to be fiscally responsible & meet the $13 million shortfall. Pinal County departments have cut their budgets by 2%. Other cost cutting measures & revenue transfers will help to meet the goal of fiscal responsibility.

Under the 180-day hiring delay, departments with current openings will be credited from the time the position became vacant. A waiver process for extreme circumstances will be required for approval.

Doolittle also told the Board that in his talks with the County Supervisors Association, it looks promising that the State Legislature and the Governor will not pass down any cost shifts this current fiscal year, although Pinal County is bracing for major cost shifts in the 2008-2009 fiscal year.

O Negative Blood Donor(s) Needed

I received an e-mail from a caring Aunt who is seeking help for her nephew. Austin was born on March 17th, of this year and has been in the hospital ever since due to having breathing problems. After showing no signs of improvement, an x-ray of the heart was performed. The result from the x-ray showed that little Austin does not have a left side to his heart. Surgery has been scheduled for tomorrow morning and he needs O Negative blood. If you match this blood type and are capable of visiting a United Blood Bank in Phoenix, call his Aunt Kristina at (480) 329-4229 and she will give you more details.

State Route 87 Reopened

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has reopened State Route 87.

The highway was closed in both directions Friday after a landslide created unsafe conditions in the Slate Creek area (milepost 224). Drivers will travel through a work zone with one lane in each direction & a reduced speed limit as they pass through the area affected by the landslide.

The decision to reopen State Route 87 was made after thorough inspections, removal of unstable soil & assessments by ADOT engineers who have been at the site of the landslide since it occurred. The northbound lanes have been determined to be safe for drivers, meaning one lane in each direction will use this side of the highway to pass through the Slate Creek area.

Motorists will travel through a 2-mile long construction zone with one lane in each direction. The speed limit on State Route 87 will be reduced to 45 miles per hour through the work zone. Motorists must slow down & drive safely through the work zone.

The landslide caused sections of the highway’s southbound lanes to buckle & shift, creating unsafe driving conditions. In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service, ADOT will keep this side of the highway closed for an extended period while construction crews excavate & flatten the slope where the landslide occurred. Crews also will reconstruct the southbound lanes damaged by the landslide.

Driver safety continues to be the first priority for ADOT. As the highway reopens, crews will continue to monitor the roadway & slope for additional movement or other safety concerns. ADOT will monitor pavement & soil movement laterally & vertically through GPS coordinates, 3D laser scanners & underground devices.

ADOT appreciates the patience and understanding of drivers who have been detoured between the Phoenix area & Payson during the last few days. They ask for continued patience in the coming weeks as repairs are made to State Route 87.

Chairman Snider's April Hours

Pinal County Board of Supervisors Chairman David Snider. The District 3 Supervisor will be holding office hours in Maricopa on April 1st, from 9 am until 5 pm. His office is at the Interim Maricopa City Hall, located at 45145 W. Madison Avenue. If you'd like to schedule a specific time to meet with the Supervisor, please call his office at 836-0003, otherwise, it's a first-come, first-served opportunity to meet with Chairman Snider.

Second Annual Shelter Run

This is an unescorted ride leaving from Queen Creek Cafe & Sports Lounge (Ellsworth/Ocotillo Roads), in Queen Creek at 10 am on April 5th. Registration opens at 9 am. The entry fee is $25 single or $30 for double. This includes a free BBQ lunch & 2 beer tickets per person, (2 tickets = 1 bottle beer or 2 draft beers), & a ticket for the door prize drawing. There will also be raffle tickets for sale for the GRAND PRIZE!!! The drawing will be held on the day of the event. You do not need to be present to win the grand prize. Prizes include Country Thunder tickets, Dinner for 2 at the Mining Camp restaurant in Apache Junction, trip for 2 on the Verde Canyon Railroad, & more. Proceeds benefit KANS 4 K-9's, a non-profit, no kill dog rescue agency operating in Queen Creek. For more details, call (602) 402-4390.

TASER Foundation Honoring Fallen Officers During Earth Hour

The TASER Foundation for Fallen Officers & World Wildlife Fund are proud to honor fallen police officers on March 29th, during Earth Hour, a global campaign to raise awareness of climate change. On that special night, the TASER Foundation will host its annual “Takin the Ride on the Wild Side” fashion show & live auction at the Scottsdale headquarters of TASER International. When Earth Hour begins at 8 pm, the TASER Foundation will darken its lights & unveil 190 battery-powered candles, paying homage to the officers who lost their lives in the United States & Canada last year.

“The TASER Foundation recognizes the worldwide impact of the Earth Hour campaign & sought to partner with this unique event by honoring fallen heroes across North America,” said Rick Smith, CEO & co-founder of TASER International.

During Earth Hour, millions of individuals and organizations will turn off all nonessential lighting for one hour, showing how people working together can make a difference in the fight against climate change. Some of the world’s most iconic skylines, including Phoenix, Chicago, Atlanta & San Francisco in the U.S. -- & more than 30 additional cities around the world -- will go dark for one hour in this dramatic call to action. In Phoenix, prominent buildings including US Airways Center, Chase Field & Dodge Theatre are participating.

On the same night in Scottsdale, the TASER Foundation will be raising money for the families of fallen police officers through its live auction & fashion show hosted at the state-of-the-art TASER International headquarters. During this event, a $120,000 MV Agusta F4CC superbike is up for auction, & guests can see the latest & hottest BMW, Harley, Ducati & Vespa motorcycles. In addition, the evening will include a bag pipe ceremony with a brief candlelight vigil in honor of the fallen heroes. Tickets are $50 & available online at TASERFoundation.org or at the door.

Lil' Tykes T-Ball Registration

The Town of Florence Parks and Recreation Dept. is currently accepting registrations for the Lil’ Tykes T-Ball League for children ages 3 to 6 years of age. Ages are determined as of September 1st, 2008. The deadline to register is Wednesday, April 2nd, 2008.

League games are scheduled to begin on Saturday, April 12th, 2008. There is a fee of $20 per participant, which can be paid at the Florence Recreation Office & Fitness Center, located at 133 North Main Street.

Each participant will receive a T-shirt. This league is focused on sportsmanship, teamwork, & fun! Volunteer coaches are needed for the successful operation of this program.

For more information please contact Erasmo Mendivil Jr. at 868-7586.

Arizona's 2007 AHRQ Report

In the 2007 National Health Quality and Disparities Report, you can see that Arizona's Overall Health Care Quality all around performance was still average, but lower than the it's previous year.

Globe Moose Lodge #2014 Seeking Donations For Upcoming Yard Sales

The Globe Moose Lodge #2014 is currently seeking donations for a series of yard sales. All proceeds will be used for the Good of the Order, to keep the Lodge up and running, so they can continue to serve the Globe-Miami community. To schedule a donation drop off, contact Buttons at (928) 793-4648. They regret that at this time, they are unable to offer pick-up of donations. Any and all donated merchandise is greatly appreciated.

Himmerick Found

On March 24th, 2008, at 1525 hours (3:25 pm), a detective with Flagstaff's Police Dept. contacted the Gila County Sheriff's Office in reference to a missing person, Terry Neil Himmerick, age 54. The detective advised the last time Mr. Himmerick's cell phone connected with a radio tower, it connected with the one on Mount Ord. Gila County deputies, with the assistance of DPS, searched the area throughout the night, but had negative contact with Mr. Himmerick or his vehicle.

At approx. 0530 hours (5:30 am) on March 25th, 2008, Tonto Rim Search and Rescue was deployed to the area. They searched the area by Jeep and all-terrain vehicle, while DPS Ranger assisted with a search from the air. At 1001 hours, DPS Ranger located Mr. Himmerick's vehicle wrecked, off Reno Pass Rd., near Mount Ord. Terry Himmerick was found at his vehicle, deceased. It appears he was ejected from the vehicle. An investigation into this incident is ongoing.

Globe Library Book Sale

The Spring book sale will be held April 4th, 10 am - 5 pm & April 5th, from 10 am to 4 pm. The library is located at 339 S. Broad St. There is a volunteer sign-up sheet inside the library for volunteers to assist with the book sale, setup on April 3rd and/or clean up on the morning of April 7th. For more information call, 425-6111.

ADEQ Awards Grants To Little League's For Recycling and Litter Control

The ADEQ awarded 22 grants totaling $11,000 to Little League baseball programs in 10 Arizona counties as part of the agency's Little League Recycling and Litter Control project. The grants provide money for banners promoting recycling displayed at baseball fields & for recycling containers to be placed at the fields.

3rd Annual Copper Valley Stage Race

Procon cycling and First Heritage Capitol present the 3rd Annual Copper Valley Stage Race that is scheduled for April 19th & 20th, in Globe. This 2-race event will feature the same challenging criterion & road race courses as last year. The historic downtown criterion is a 6-corner course with 60' of climbing per lap, with lots of great area's for spectator's. On April 19th, the race will take place from 7 am to 1 pm in downtown Globe. Globe residents, road closures will be in effect for the race for those hours. The Lake Roosevelt road race is an out-and-back course that will also be used for the Arizona state championship road race. This race is from 8 am to Noon on hwy 188 on Sunday, April 20th.

Game & Fish Outdoor Expo

The Arizona Game and Fish Dept. Outdoor Expo will be jam-packed with outdoor fun & adventure for the whole family on March 29th & March 30th, at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, just west of I-17 on Carefree Highway.

The 1,600-acre Ben Avery facility will be transformed that weekend into the largest hands-on outdoor expo in Arizona. And, best of all, it’s free—there are no admission or parking fees. Last year's Expo drew more than 17,000 attendees.

"We’ve expanded this year,” says event coordinator Tristanna Bickford. “Outdoor enthusiasts will find something for everyone.”

You can bring your family to the huge catch-&-release fish tank in the Family Fun area, or experience live wildlife, up close & personal, from the Adobe Mountain Wildlife Center. Take a hike on the hunter education trail to see how to set up a camp, or learn tips about wildlife identification.

Shooting sports enthusiasts can try out some of the latest firearms from Sturm, Ruger and Co., Smith & Wesson, GLOCK, Marlin & Benelli.

Interested in trying your hand at cowboy action shooting or black powder muzzleloading? Then you will want to visit the Specialty Shooting Range section of the Expo. You can even shoot a Gatling gun.

Are all-terrain vehicles your area of interest? You can visit the Off-Highway Vehicle Area to view ATVs, dirt bikes & other OHVs, watch customized rock crawlers do amazing feats, see safety demonstrations, & learn how to ride responsibly to protect wildlife habitat.

Expo visitors can learn to shoot a bow & arrow or try their hand at 3D archery on a walking course in the desert at the newly-enhanced Archery Area. Or you can get instruction on how to shoot skeet or sporting clays at the revamped & modernized Clay Target Center. You can also learn about boating safety & see the debut of the new “Wear It Arizona” boat.

Want to pick up outdoor tips from local experts? There will be workshops throughout the weekend on a variety of topics, including venomous reptiles, Arizona’s birds of prey, quail hunting, river running, wildlife viewing, hunting dog training, & how to take advantage of Arizona’s best fishing in 25 years.

There will be fabulous demonstrations all weekend. See world-renowned trick shooter Tim Bradley do unbelievable shotgun demonstrations, or the famous “Evil Roy” showing his cowboy action shooting skills. There will be horse-mounted target shooting & hunting dog demonstrations as well.

Plus, there are more than 150 vendors, outdoor organizations, & other interesting exhibitors to visit, & plenty of good food to purchase at the Food Court.

Expo hours are 9 am - 6 pm on March 29th & 9 am - 4 pm on March 30th. Admission & parking are free. There is a nominal charge for ammunition at some of the shooting venues.

Gold sponsors of the Arizona Game and Fish Dept. Outdoor Expo are Sportsman's Warehouse, the Weatherby Foundation, & the American Red Cross, Grand Canyon Chapter. Silver sponsors of the Expo are Bass Pro Shops, Lincoln Property Company, Cabela's, & Sundt.

Help An Arizona Entertainer In Need

Paula Saletnik, Phoenix Arizona’s own World Champion Lady Six Gun Spinner, Bull Whip Artist & All-Around Wild West Performer, who, for over 12 years entertained Tens of Thousands of Guests at the World Famous Rawhide Theme Park in Scottsdale, performed for Hundreds of Corporate events & fundraisers, along with Daily Guest’s at the World Famous Ponderosa Ranch {Home of TV’s Bonanza}...Now Needs Our HELP!

Paula Saletnik, aka "Pistol Packin’ Paula", was recently involved in an automobile accident, from which she sustained very serious bodily injury. During the evening of Jan. 10th, Paula struck a deer while driving on a county highway near her home in Texas. As she swerved to miss the animal, her truck rolled countless times & was thrown from the vehicle through the driver side window. Paula’s diagnosed injuries included a broken sternum and pelvis {both sides, front & back}, cracked ribs & fractures to 3 vertebrae. A surgical procedure was performed on Jan. 15th, with several permanent pins implanted. Her Doctors expect a full recovery, however, this will take several months or years of therapy & determination. Paula’s tough Cowgirl Spirit is intact & she WILL twirl her guns & ride her horse again! After her hospital stay, Paula has left the hospital & is staying with friends for the next several months, who will assist her in her therapy & recovery.

Dr. Buck Montgomery, of Dr. Buck Productions {Producer of the Annual Wild Western Festival in Phoenix, Az}, A personal friend of over 15 years & a fellow entertainer has contributed to & created a trust fund for Paula, {Donations can be made at any "Bank of America" branch, to the "PAULA SALETNIK MEDICAL FUND"}.

Additionally, “TWO” fund raising events are planned to help Paula with her medical & recovery expenses. The first event is April 19th, 2008, from 6 pm - 11 pm, will be hosted by Gary Martinson, Owner of Bison Homes & Bison Museum, at their beautiful museum at: 16641 N. 91st St., Scottsdale, Az 85260. This star studded gala evening event features world class “Best of the West” entertainers, live music, western celebrities, 100's of silent & live auction items, door prizes, catered food & full cash bar. Tickets for this exclusive event are $75 per person or $125 per couple {Limited to 500 people}. Tickets are available before the event at the Bison Museum or by calling Tammy Youngs at Dr. Buck Productions {480} 703-6702, call today! We need your help to get Miss Paula...“BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN!”

The Second Pistol Packin’ Paula Fund Raising Event, {Date TBA}. Will take place in the West Valley, hosted by C.J., B.J. & Chris Smith, at their C.J.S. Film Studios. Guests will have the chance to “Go Behind the Scenes” at a real working movie studio located in Avondale, Az & enjoy “Best of the West” variety entertainment, live music, door prizes, silent & live auction items. Food will be available, along with a cash beer & wine bar. Ticket information & prices are available by calling Tammy Youngs at Dr. Buck Productions {480] 703-6702.

Cash, check or money order contributions can be made to any Bank of America branch, just ask for the “PAULA SALETNIK MEDICAL FUND”. If you’d like to contribute an item, or items for the auctions, contact Tammy Youngs at: TLYoungs@cox.net, or call: {480} 703-6702 {All contributions are 100% tax deductible}.

Plan now to enjoy one or both world class, entertainment filled evenings!...Two venues to choose from: April 19th, at the Bison Museum in Scottsdale or in the West Valley at the C.J.S. Film Studio in Avondale {Date & Time TBA}.

Pinal Preferred Future Workshops

In a continuation of the Pinal County Comprehensive Plan, six Pinal Preferred Future Workshops have been scheduled throughout the County in April (registration is required). These meetings are for residents to become involved in county land use and the transportation plan.

Elks "National Veteran's Service Manual"

The Catalina Mountain Elks Lodge #2815 is reminding everybody that it is very important for the Lodge Elks National Veteran's Committee to have a copy of the "National Veteran's Service Manual." If you haven't yet ordered a hard copy from the Grand Lodge, you can now view & print it from the elks.org web site. Please print yourself a copy & read how to accomplish your responsibilities to our veterans.

Young Arizona Golfers Win On Sunday

Despite being 2 of the youngest players in the ReBath Heather Farr Classic field, Trey Kaahanui, 14, & Kyung Kim, 13, were not intimidated by the more experienced competition, as the Arizona residents picked up their first AJGA titles Sunday.

Conducted by the American Junior Golf Association at Longbow Golf Club, the ReBath Heather Farr Classic featured 138 players from 20 states, Canada, the Cayman Islands & Scotland. The field consisted of 90 boys & 48 girls, ages 12-18, & included 15 Rolex Junior All-Americans. Playing to a par 71, Longbow Golf Club measured 7,001 yards for the boys & 6,150 yards for the girls.

The 54-hole stroke play event's past champions list includes Hunter Mahan (1999), Philip Francis (2006), Amanda Blumenherst (2002) & Paula Creamer (2003, 2004).

For Kaahanui, of Tempe, playing in his fourth AJGA event, the age factor was a non-factor, as he has received plenty of good advice for competing against veteran players.

"A lot of people say, "You're good - don't worry. Play your game and have fun out there," Kaahanui said. "That really helps, it makes me feel better."

Entering the event relatively unknown, a pair of 65s in the first 2 rounds grabbed everyone's attention. After building an 8-shot advantage in the Boys Division, Kaahanui coasted to victory with a 2-over-par 73 Sunday for a tournament total of 65-65-73-203.

Although his final round was slow starting, as he made three bogeys in his 1st five holes, Kaahanui played his remaining holes at 1-under-par and never saw his lead fall below five strokes.

In 2nd place, five shots back, was Nicholas Losole III, of Scottsdale, Ariz., who shot 68-71-69-208. Tied for 3rd were Rak Cho of Brea, Calif., James Erkenbeck of San Diego, & Robbie Ziegler of Canby, Ore., at 210.

In the Girls Division, Kim, of Chandler, was playing in only her 3rd AJGA event, so it is understandable that she developed a case of nerves. Fortunately, those nerves didn't show up until she was standing over a 6-foot putt on the final hole. Clinging to a 2-stroke lead, Kim was not about to let victory slip from her grasp.

She had already outperformed one of the highest ranked players in the country, 15-year-old Danielle Frasier of Encinitas, Calif., a 2-time Rolex Junior All-American who is ranked 15th in the Polo Golf Rankings.

Although Frasier entered the final round with a one-shot lead, Kim parred the 1st six holes, while Frasier bogeyed her 1st three in a stiff morning wind. Kim took the lead after the 2nd hole & never relinquished it.

The wind didn't knock Kim off course, as she made 2 birdies & 2 bogeys to escape with an even-par round & finish the tournament at 70-68-71-209. No one in the field scored lower on Sunday. Her final hole told the story, as she came to the tee with a 2-shot lead.

After hitting her tee shot down the middle, there was much work left to be done on the 411-yard par 4 to secure the victory.

"I hit a 7-wood into the green because the wind was in my face," Kim said. "I had a 6-foot putt & my hands were shaking. It was the last hole & everybody was watching."

Just as she had all day, Kim stayed calm under pressure, draining the birdie putt to close out a three-stroke victory.

After leading the first 2 days, Frasier fell into 2nd place with a 1-under-par total of 212. Tied for 3rd place was a pair of Hawaiians, Stephanie Kono of Honolulu & Kimberly Kim of Pahoa, at 215. Kono tied Kim for the low final round at even-par 71.

The American Junior Golf Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the overall growth & development of young men & women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf.

The largest Association of its kind, the AJGA has an annual junior membership (boys & girls ages 12-18) of more than 5,000 junior golfers from 49 states & more than 25 foreign countries.

Titleist, the AJGA's National Sponsor, has been the catalyst & driving force behind the Association's success since 1989. Rolex Watch USA, which is in its third decade of AJGA support, became the inaugural AJGA Premier Partner in 2004. In 2007, after 12 years of support, Polo Ralph Lauren became the AJGA's 2nd Premier Partner.

AJGA alumni have risen to the top of amateur, collegiate & professional golf. More than 160 former AJGA juniors currently play on the PGA and LPGA Tours and have compiled more than 300 wins. AJGA alumni include Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jim Furyk, Stewart Cink, Davis Love III, Cristie Kerr, Pat Hurst, Paula Creamer, Brittany Lincicome, Morgan Pressel & Julieta Granada.

For more information about the ReBath Heather Farr Classic, visit: ajga.org.

Moon Canyon Fire Contained

The Moon Canyon Fire that had been burning near Bisbee is being reported as 100% contained at 750 acres. No structures were lost and there were no injuries.

Pinal County Museum Yard Sale

Collectibles at yard sale price, tools, furniture, toys & a huge array of items, all waiting for you to check out! Starting at 7 am on March 28th, in the back yard of the Pinal County Museum at 715 S. Main Street in Florence, early bird shoppers will have the chance to take home some real treasures. Proceeds benefit this non-profit museum, the oldest in Pinal County. Sale will be held on both Friday March 28th & Saturday March 29th from 7 am to 1 pm.

Then at 11 am, when the museum opens, be sure to enjoy a stop inside this interesting museum to see the antique cactus furniture, barbed wire & bullet collections & the prison nooses. Sorry folks, those won’t be for sale!

For more information, contact the Pinal County Historical Society at (520) 868-4382. Donations for the museum sale will be accepted until the day of the sale. If you’ve done some spring cleaning & sorting & want to add your items to the sale, give them a call.

Globe Town Council Meeting Tonight

The meeting will start at 6 pm at the Municipal Building, 150 N. Pine St. in Globe.

Some DVDs Out This Week

Frisky Dingo - Season 1
Ultimate Fighting Championship, Vol. 79: Nemesis
Ultimate Fighting Championship: The Best of 2007
IFL Championship 2007
WWE No Way Out 2008
WWE - Triple H: King of Kings
Daytona 500 - 50 Years of the Great American Race
The Mist
The Upright Citizens Brigade: Asssscat!
Merle Haggard - Merle Haggard in Concert
Bonnie and Clyde - Ultimate Collector's Edition
Strange Culture
Sliders: The 4th Season
NHL: All Access 2008
PU-239
Mike Douglas - Moments & Memories
Lindsey Buckingham - Live at the Bass Performance Hall
The Kite Runner
Los Angeles Dodgers 1988 World Series Collector's Edition
The Shield - Season 1
The Shield - Season 2
The Shield - Season 3
The Shield - Season 4
The Mayor of Hell
Lady Killer
John Witherspoon: You Got to Coordinate
Wings - The 6th Season
Lost Highway
Best of the Price is Right
Tripping the Rift: The Movie
Pauly Shore's Natural Born Komics Sketch Comedy Movie: Miami
Party of Five - The Complete 3rd Season

Some Country/Folk CDs Out This Week

The Waybacks - Loaded
Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder - Honoring the Fathers of Bluegrass: Tribute to 1946 & 1947
The Band - Stage Fright (Limited Edition)
Various Artists - Best-Loved Bluegrass: 20 All-Time Favorites

NAU Summer Enrichment Program Meeting

High Desert 8th grade parents are invited to attend this NAU Summer Enrichment Program meeting for their 2008 Summer Camp. The GEAR-UP program is holding the meeting on March 25th, from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the High Desert Middle School Auditorium. Light refreshments will be served.

Gila County To Start Reproductive Health Clinic

The Gila County Division of Health and Community Services will begin a Reproductive Health Clinic once a month this Spring. The clinic will provide a pelvic exam, pap smear, STD screening, breast exam, & family planning with a nurse practitioner. This service will be provided free due to funding from Arizona Department of Health Services and is targeted to patients who do not have AHCCCS or private insurance and whose income is 150% below the poverty level. If you are interested in an appointment or for more information, call 402-8811.

ADOT Repairing State Route 87 Embankment March 24th

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will begin repairing an embankment along northbound State Route (SR) 87 between Sunflower & Rye, in the Slate Creek area, on Monday, March 24th.

Winter storms that produced large amounts of rain caused an embankment & wall to fail between milepost 224 & milepost 225 on SR 87. ADOT immediately took action to limit the damage by placing temporary concrete barriers that kept soil from eroding onto the roadway.

On Monday, crews will begin placing message signs to warn motorists & will install additional concrete barriers that will separate work crews from motorists throughout the project. Lane restrictions will be kept to a minimum, but it will be necessary to narrow the northbound section to one lane. This restriction will affect drivers traveling north from the Phoenix area on SR 87 to Payson or the White Mountains . Drivers should allow for extra travel time & should proceed safely through the work zone.

Just prior to the Memorial Day weekend, crews will remove the barriers & temporarily halt work, so motorists can travel unrestricted for the holiday weekend. The project should be completed by mid June.

ADOT's Motor Vehicle Division has approved a 12-foot maximum wide load restriction for both northbound & southbound lanes beginning Monday & running through Memorial Day. This will prevent vehicles with wide loads from blocking the construction zone & slowing other motorists.

The U.S. Forest Service has partnered with ADOT to ensure proper drainage, erosion control & environmental stewardship throughout the project.

ADOT advises motorists to proceed with caution, obey all posted speed limit signs, & be alert for construction equipment & personnel.

First Annual Sedona Bike Bash

The first annual Sedona Bike Bash - a bicycle festival for enthusiasts of all ages - is set for Saturday, April 12th from 8 am to 4 pm at the Sedona Heritage Museum at 735 Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona.

Besides fun rides, the festival expo area will offer trick demonstrations, kids' activities, a Bike Rodeo, bicycle safety zone, antique 'tall tricycle" demo, and vendor booths. In the Museum's Packing Shed will be live music, Bike & Bean's gourmet coffee bar and the Museum's silent auction and raffle. A fun ride will end the day at the Oak Creek Brewery in West Sedona.

Proceeds benefit the Sedona Historical Society, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For information: (928) 282-7038 or sedonamuseum.org.

7th Annual AZCREW Golf Classic

Golfers & non-golfers alike are invited to the Arizona Commercial Real Estate Women (AZCREW) Chapter of CREW Network (Commercial Real Estate Women)’s Seventh Annual Golf Classic benefiting Arizona Women’s Education & Employment (AWEE) & the CREW Foundation. Attendees are welcome to play in the tournament or just come for the awards luncheon to follow. Non-golfers can also enjoy a Business-Golf Seminar that includes breakfast; a 90-minute presentation on business-golf etiquette, creative strategies & myths; an on-course golf activity; lunch with the tournament players; a goodie bag & prizes.

A “Caddie Auction” for the Golf Classic will be held on April 2nd, at Tommy Bahama at Kierland Commons. Participants will be able to bid on caddies for the tournament & to drop off gently-worn professional clothes that have been pressed & then placed on hangers for donation to AWEE. The $20 fee includes an appetizers & drink ticket & valet parking.

WHEN/WHERE: Tuesday, April 30th, ASU Karsten Golf Course on the ASU Campus in Tempe.

7:30 am: Shotgun Start
8:30 am: Business-Golf Seminar (program begins at 9 am)
12:45 pm: Awards Luncheon (starting time is approximate)

The $200 fee includes greens fees for the golf course as well as the lunch & awards. The cost for the luncheon only is $40. The fee for the Business-Golf Seminar is $125.

WHO: Arizona Women’s Education & Employment (AWEE) has been changing lives through the dignity of work since 1981. AWEE has been successfully investing in women, & families through life & career success planning, training & support. To date, they have served & supported nearly 50,000 individuals in their quest to attain quality jobs that create positive changes & successful beginnings for themselves & their families.

CONTACT: For more information and/or to RSVP, please contact AZCREW at (623) 581-3591 or visit arizonacrew.org.

State Route 87 Closed For Emergency Repairs

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has closed State Route 87 after ADOT crews discovered a land slide between Phoenix and Payson. The land slide is occurring in the Slate Creek area between Sunflower & Rye, which is causing buckling in the highway pavement at milepost 224.

State Route 87 is closed in both directions between the Bush Highway & State Route 188 for safety reasons. ADOT is working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety & Gila County Sheriff's Office to reroute traffic as a result of the closure.

Drivers from the Phoenix area should go east on US 60 to Globe & then go west on SR 188 to reach SR 87 and continue north to Payson.

Drivers coming from Payson will go east on SR 188 to Globe & then head west on US 60 to reach the Phoenix area.

Drivers also can use I-17 & SR 260 through the Camp Verde area to travel between Phoenix & Payson.

ADOT has crews on the scene & is working to determine what actions can be taken to safely reopen the highway. At this time there is no anticipated date for reopening SR 87.

ADOT appreciates the understanding of motorists as they use detour routes to travel between the Phoenix & Payson areas this holiday weekend.

Motorists can dial 5-1-1 for roadway information, or go to az511 for up to date information.

Winkelman Man Goes Wild In Indiana

After a 40-minute chase in a stolen police car, Danny Ware faces preliminary charges of auto theft, fleeing, resisting law enforcement, driving with a suspended license and criminal mischief. He initially asked the officer for a ride after he "feared gangbangers were following him."

ADOT Offering Free Safe Routes to School Program Workshops

The Arizona Department of Transportation is offering a series of free workshops as part of its Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program on April 3rd, April 10th, April 16th, & May 1st.

Pinal County Suspending Issuance of Open Burn Permits

Starting April 1st, Pinal County Air Quality will only issue 3-day open burning permits. All permits will expire by May 1st, 2008. Pinal County will suspend the issuance of open burning permits on April 29th, 2008. This year’s more frequent winter rains contributed to wildflower, brush & native plant growth, which will soon dry. The annual cycle of rising temperatures will quickly dry seasonal vegetation, leading to an acute wildfire risk in the desert & upland areas of the County. Wildfires threaten public safety, & the resulting smoke threatens public health.

“The suspension will continue until the summer monsoons arrive and mitigate the dual risks to public safety and public health” says Don Gabrielson, Director of Pinal County’s Air Quality program.

Additional information on the Pinal County Air Quality program can be found at pinalcountyaz.gov or by calling the Pinal County Air Quality Division at (520) 866-6929.

Globe/Miami Gun Club Students Complete Course

On March 15th, forty-one students completed Range Day and Graduated the program at the Globe/Miami Gun Club. Thirty-eight students were from the Combination Firearm/Archery class taught by local volunteers. The other 3 were students via the internet who completed the online Basic Course offered by Arizona State Game and Fish Department.

House Bill 2573 Defeated

House Bill 2573, (also known as the off-highway vehicle, user fee bill) was defeated by a vote of 3-3 with one absent in the Arizona Senate Natural Resources & Rural Affairs Committee chaired by Senator Jake Flake (R-Snowflake) on March 19th.

House Bill 2573 would have provided resources to better manage Arizona’s growing off-highway vehicle (OHV) use while protecting wildlife habitat. OHVs have seen a 347 percent increase in usage in Arizona in the last few years, but law enforcement & trail development have lagged far behind. Through this legislation, dollars would have been provided by a nominal user fee to create new law enforcement positions, new land & habitat mitigation for damaged use areas, & better trail construction.

ADOT Planning Workshop Coming To Globe

The Arizona Dept. of Transportation is hosting a public workshop in Globe and two other District Five cities to solicit public input on a long-range vision for the future of transportation in Arizona. This is part of the statewide transportation planning process known as 'Building a Quality Arizona.' This community workshop is designed to encourage the local community to hear information about the department's planning process, review the work to date, and provide input. This is the public's opportunity to let ADOT know what they feel are their area's transportation needs for the next 40 years.

The Globe workshop is Thursday, March 27th, at American Legion Post #4 Hall at 645 South Broad Street from 6 pm to 8 pm. A presentation will begin at 6:15 pm.

3rd Annual Easter Eggstravaganza

The 3rd Annual Easter Eggstravaganza event in Maricopa will once again be held at Pacana Park & is being hosted by the Community of Hope Church. The Eggstravaganza is March 22nd from 10am to Noon. Along with Easter egg hunts every 20 minutes for age's 1yr to 5th grade, there is a Petting Zoo, Carnival Games with Prizes, Bounce Houses, & an Easter Bunny (bring your camera).

This is a free event but they will accept nonperishable food and toiletries for the F.O.R. Maricopa (Food, Outreach, Resources) food bank.

Mesa Bass Pro Shops Looking for A Total Outdoorsman

The Mesa BASS PRO SHOPS will host a FIELD & STREAM TOTAL OUTDOORSMAN CHALLENGE QUALIFIER. The event is a coast-to-coast competition to name the most competent & well-rounded sportsman in the nation. Winners from the event will advance to the Regional Championships where thousands of dollars is up for grabs in cash & prizes. Entrance is FREE with each participant receiving a gift bag full of goodies from Field & Stream, Bass Pro Shops & more. Outdoorsmen & –women in Mesa will have 3 opportunities to participate, on April 4th, April 5th, & April 6th.

“We’re not short on great outdoor opportunities in this area & I certainly think we’re home to some of the top outdoorsmen in the region, if not the country,” says Nikole Holverson, Promotions Manager of the Mesa Bass Pro Shops. “This event is a great way to come out, have some fun & see how you stack-up against your buddies & the rest of the nation. The chance to win $25,000 doesn’t hurt either!”

The competition will test outdoorsmen’s skills in baitcasting, archery & air rifle challenges with each participant receiving a gift bag. The top 6 competitors from each store will advance to the Regional Championship where cash & prizes are on the line. Winners at the regional level will also earn 1 of 16 coveted spots at the Field & Stream Total Outdoorsman Challenge National Championship where competitors will go head-to-head for a top prize of $25,000 in cash & prizes & a feature in Field & Stream magazine.

“If you’re a good hunter & good fisherman you could walk away with some cash & have a ton of fun,” said Anthony Licata, editor of Field & Stream. “We’re looking for someone who loves the outdoors & takes advantage of each season’s opportunities from fishing & hunting to archery & ATV’s. I can’t wait to see what Mesa has to offer.”

In its 5th year, the Field & Stream Total Outdoorsman Challenge is the only contest in the country to determine the most competent all-around outdoorsman. The event tests sportsmen’s abilities by putting them through a series of skills challenges that that touch on all areas of the outdoor sports. Sixteen participants will compete in the National Championships in Springfield, Mo., Sept. 5th - 7th, earning their spots through a series of local qualifiers & Regional Championships.

Competitors at the national event will participate in 7 outdoor skill challenges, including: fly-fishing, baitcasting, rifle, shotgun, ATV handling, endurance, & archery. The Field & Stream Total Outdoorsman Challenge National Championship winner will walk away with $25,000 in cash & prizes, a feature in Field & Stream magazine, & extensive coverage on FieldandStream.com & the Total Outdoorsman Challenge television show.

The Field & Stream Total Outdoorsman Challenge is FREE to enter, however space is limited. Please sign-up onsite the day of the qualifier. Competitors at the Mesa Bass Pro Shops can compete multiple times, with the best score counting.

For additional information & official rules, please visit FieldandStream.com/totaloutdoorsman or go on line at basspro.com.

Sponsors of the 2008 Field & Stream Total Outdoorsman Challenge include: Bass Pro Shops; Toyota; Wolverine; Bowtech; 2008 CMA Music Festival; Repel; Dinty Moore; & the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

LOCATION:
Bass Pro Shops Mesa
1133 N. Dobson Road
Mesa, Arizona 85201

SCHEDULE:
Dates: April 4th, 5th, 6th.

Times:
Registration: 8:30am - 11:30am
Noon - 1:15pm 1st Round
1:15pm - 2:30pm 2nd Round
2:30 - 3:45pm 3rd Round

Mammoth Man Wins Big

Michael Gonzalez of Mammoth had a pleasant surprise after work last night. When Michael got home last night and checked his lottery ticket, he discovered that in his hand was a wining lottery ticket worth $13 million in this week’s Arizona Lottery.

Globe Jail Searched For Drugs And Contraband

Sheriff John R. Armer, in keeping with his pro-active policy of having the jail facilities searched & cleaned of contraband and/or drugs, reports the following: On March 20th, Gila County Sheriff's Office Deputies and Detention Officers working in conjunction with the Globe PD, accompanied with 3 canines, performed an extensive search of the Globe jail for drugs & contraband. The search lasted 1 hour & included drug screens being performed on certain inmates. A small residue of Marijuana & some contraband was discovered.

Game Day At The Globe Public Library

Today, for ages 10 - 16, have some fun at the Globe Public Library with Game Day. The fun begins at 3 pm and will wrap-up at 5 pm. The Globe Public Library is at 339 S. Broad St.

Veterans Town Hall Meeting In April

The Arizona Veteran's Service Advisory Commission invites all veterans, veteran service organizations & members of the community to a town hall meeting on Saturday, April 12th, at 10 am. It will be held at the American Legion Post #30 at 825 E. Main in Springerville.

The nine-member Commission, appointed by the Governor, is dedicated to serving the past & present military service personnel in Arizona. To accomplish this, the state has been divided into 4 regions with 2 Commissioners representing each region.

In a continuing effort to unify and represent Arizona veterans, the Commission is conducting the meeting in its Region 2, consisting of Apache, Coconino, Gila & Navajo Counties & represented by Commissioners Webb Ellis & Phillip Quachytewa.

The purpose of the regional meetings is to engage & educate the members of the community, local officials & veterans as to the issues as they pertain to Arizona veterans. The agenda for the meeting includes & open forum/town hall discussion after concluding the general business portion of the meeting.

Gila County Safe Home Annual Spring Luncheon

The Gila County Safe Home's Annual Spring Luncheon is at Kelley's Broad Street Brewery on May 10th, at 11 am & is being hosted by the Living Waters and River of Life Churches. Seating is limited, if you'd like to join them, contact the safe home at 402-0648, weekdays from 8 am - 5 pm. They will have guest speakers, real life stories of survivors, door prizes, & raffle prizes. They are asking a donation of $20 or more per ticket and this will include your meal. All proceeds go to the Gila County Safe Home and will benefit victims of domestic violence in our community. Also, you must have your ticket with you at the door or you will not be admitted and tickets will not be sold at the door this year.

Free "Well Baby Clinic"

Once a month the Gila County Helth Department offers a "Well Baby Clinic" for the children of Gila County. It's designed for children from newborn through 24 months of age. The clinic is FREE for all children. This program is a great opportunity for those families who do not have insurance, cannot afford their insurance's co-pay, or those with a child that do not have a regular physician.

The clinic helps to promote wellness by providing immunizations & a physician who examines the child. Visits are scheduled at 2, 4, 6, 12, & 15 - 18 months of age. Parents can obtain information regarding their child's growth and development, as well as discuss any concerns they may have regarding their child with the medical staff.

Parents interested in enrolling their child in the program need to contact Susan at 425-3189 ext. 8808.

Missing Labrador's

The first is a black lab with an orange collar with tags.

The second is a yellow lab with a red collar with no tags.

The dogs went missing behind G-hill & were last spotted in Central Heights. If you see one or both, call Carrie at 200-1287.

Arizona State Treasurer Dean Martin Discusses General Fund Problem

The Arizona Legislature and Governor are being urged to quickly reach an agreement to balance the FY 2008 budget by Arizona State Treasurer Dean Martin. Martin announced that Arizona would be in the red in as soon as 5 weeks without the passing of a revised budget. According to Martin, the state currently has over $12.7 billion dollars in deposits invested, of that is $5.2 billion in state funds.

Martin goes on to say, “We have structured our investments to ensure there is liquidity for both state and local governments to meet their cash needs during this economic downturn. As a bank we are in very good shape, but the Governor and Legislature have some work to do to make sure the General Fund account is not overdrawn in the next few weeks.”

“We have analyzed the current spending for the first 262 days of this fiscal year (as of March 18th), and the state has not slowed its rate of spending during this budget crisis. The exact opposite has occurred; general fund spending is on a pace to even exceed the original FY 08 appropriation.”

“At the current spending rate, the General Fund only has enough revenue to make one more payment to schools, and perhaps three more paydays for employees before the account is overdrawn at the bank.”

“The state has already spent over $7.6 billion of the General Fund; that is over $29 million per day. Meanwhile revenues have continued to slide. Both the Governor and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC) have lowered their General Fund revenue estimates. Without immediate intervention by the Governor and Legislature to pass a revised FY2008 budget, the General Fund will be overdrawn as soon as April 23rd but no later than May 5th,” Martin said.

“While the State does have other funds in other accounts, as Treasurer I do not have statutory authority to move money from the State’s other accounts to cover their deficit; only the Legislature and the Governor can move those funds through an appropriation. They need to act quickly before the General Fund account is overdrawn.”

Crestline Booster Repairs Begin

As of 11 am this morning, the repairs to the Crestline Booster will start. Residents in the Crestline area will experience low water pressure, but should not be out of water. The City of Globe anticipates that the repairs will be completed by 3 pm today.

Pinal County Citizen Surveys Mailed Out

Citizen Surveys were mailed this week to random households in Florence. This is the 3rd year the surveys have been distributed by the Town of Florence to the citizens of Florence to collect feedback & input on the operations of the Town. Not every household in Florence will receive a survey. Instead, 1,100 surveys are mailed to random households. Check your mail to see if you have an opportunity to participate in this year's survey.

The results from the survey are used to guide the operations of the Town. Council members, department heads, managers & others who work directly or indirectly for the Town of Florence utilize the results to make decisions throughout the year. The survey serves as a very useful tool to collect opinion & input from the citizens of Florence. Without the survey, the Town is reliant on citizens who contact the Town individually about specific issues. The survey allows citizens to comment on a number of different issues, in a short period of time. The survey results will be organized in a way that allows the reader to learn a lot about Florence, its operations, & most importantly, its citizens.

The individual results of the survey are completely anonymous. Citizens completing the survey can rest assured that it is impossible for anyone to match them up individually with the survey they filled out & returned. The confidentiality allows the citizen to speak freely & voice their thoughts without the possibility of being linked to their individual responses.

Central Arizona Region Community Workshop

A Central Arizona Region Community Workshop is scheduled for March 26th, at the Anthem Parkside Community Center located at Merrill Ranch at 3200 North Anthem Way in Florence, from 6 pm to 8 pm. A presentation will begin at 6: 15 pm.

Globe School District Meeting

The meeting will be at the Mofford Activity Center (Globe Junior High School Multipurpose Room). The meeting, as always, is open to the public & will start at 6 pm.

Arizona Chapter of The Wildlife Society Wildlife Professional of the Year

This year that title belongs to Ron Sieg, regional supervisor for the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Flagstaff office.

Amongst the accomplishments, Sieg was recognized for his continued dedication to wildlife conservation, including work on the Kaibab Westside Habitat Improvement Project and Condor Lead Reduction Program in Arizona.

The Kaibab Westside project is an effort to improve habitat conditions for deer on the west side (of the Kaibab Plateau) winter range. This 24,000-acre proposed project will include pinyon-juniper cutting/grinding to help release shrubs for the deer, seed shrub species and use herbicide to limit cheatgrass expansion.

The Condor Lead Reduction Program is an effort that began in 2003 to increase voluntary compliance among hunters to use non-lead ammunition when hunting in the core range of the endangered California condor. Lead toxicity from ingesting lead bullet fragments from hunting is the leading cause of mortality for condors in Arizona.

Goldfield Mountain Community Clean-Up Saturday

There will be a community clean up for Goldfield Mountain residents on March 22nd, from 8 am until 1 pm. The drop off location will be at the Apache Junction Rodeo Grounds on the corner of Lost Dutchman Road & Tomahawk Road. Find out what is & isn't being accepted.

U.S. Bureau of Reclamation Celebrates Arizona Water Settlement Act's Complete Enactment

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation held a celebration to mark the complete enactment of the Arizona Water Settlement Act in Chandler earlier today.

The Arizona Water Settlement Act, which was authored by Senator Kyl, reallocated Central Arizona Project water for the benefit of Arizona cities, towns, farmers & Indian tribes & settled the water rights claims of the Gila River Indian Community & the Tohono O'odham Nation. It also resolved a longstanding dispute between the state of Arizona and the federal government over nearly $2 billion in repayments for construction of the Central Arizona Project.

Although it was signed into law by President Bush in December 2004, certain conditions had to be met in order for the law to become fully effective, including a requirement that the underlying settlements be approved by various courts in Arizona. All of the necessary conditions have now been met, and the law is completely effective.

Tucson's UMC Named National Training Center for Minimally Invasive Lung Surgery

University Medical Center is now a national training site for minimally invasive lung surgery, joining only a handful of academic medical centers in the nation that train surgeons to perform the innovative procedure.

Not only has minimally invasive lung surgery been proven to be as effective as traditional surgery in removing cancer for early-stage lung cancer patients, it also is much easier on the patient & speeds up recovery. However, few surgeons in the nation are trained to offer this operation. Estimates indicate only a small fraction of all lung cancer operations nationwide are done with minimally invasive techniques, but more than half of patients in need of the surgery would qualify for the less invasive procedure, says Shari Meyerson, MD, assistant professor in The University of Arizona Department of Surgery. “Few surgeons offer the procedure because it’s difficult & requires additional training with a steep learning curve.”

Dr. Meyerson is the only surgeon in Tucson performing this type of minimally invasive lung surgery. Because of her expertise – & with support from the medical company Covidien – UMC has become a national training site for the procedure. The first training course is Tuesday, March 18th, when 12 visiting specialists in cardiovascular & thoracic surgery will learn how to perform minimally invasive lung surgery, known as a thoracoscopic lobectomy. The procedure is done through 2 small incisions, 1 less than 1 centimeter & the other 2 to 4 centimeters, & requires no rib spreading, thus reducing both the amount of postoperative pain & the length of hospital stay required. Traditional lung cancer surgery involves thoracotomy, in which the surgeon cuts through the muscles into the chest & spreads open the ribs to access the lungs. The large incision usually results in a slow & painful recovery.

Dr. Meyerson, a thoracic surgeon who cares for patients with diseases involving the lungs, airways, esophagus & other structures in the chest, uses minimally invasive procedures to ease the discomfort & improve the quality of life for patients diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer, as well as those with advanced lung cancer that cannot be cured by surgery.

Every 3 to 4 months, surgeons will come to UMC to participate in the intensive 1-day course, where they will observe a live surgery & practice a simulated operation in a training lab. “The addition of this minimally invasive treatment for lung cancer has been a tremendous step forward in the treatment of the disease,” Dr. Meyerson says. “We’re very excited about our ability to deliver the most advanced surgical treatment for lung cancer available anywhere in the world & to be part of the select team to teach the technology of tomorrow.”

Engine Failure Forces Cessna To Land On McKellips Road

An engine failed in a 1973 Cessna 150L prop plane being flown by a student pilot and instructor after taking off from the Falcon Field Airport at approx. 11 am this morning. The plane came to a rest near McKellips Road and Val Vista after clipping the top of a few orange trees. Fortunately, nobody was injured.

Easter Egg Hunt

The Easter Egg Hunt is March 22nd, at 10:30 am at the Claypool Little League fields. All ages are welcome to search for the 2,000 hidden eggs. You will need to bring your own basket for the hunt. The Easter Egg Hunt is sponsored by Miami Recreation, Arizona Youth Partnership, & the Globe Police Dept.

Bejarano School Family Night

Families, join the Dr. Charles A. Bejarano School for grade levels K-8 on March 27th, from 5:30 - 7 pm. The Miami Unified School District Leap program is presenting this Family Night with Children's Author, Brooke Bessesen on hand to tell a few stories. Enjoy free pizza & fun with the entire family. Don't miss this semi-annual event. Sign up for the many door prizes that will be given away throughout the evening.

Ecumenical Holy Week

The presentation of the "Living Lord's Supper" is March 20th, at 7 pm and will be at the River of Life Church, at the 4-way stop in Central Heights.

On Good Friday, March 21st, the Easter musical "Who is this King" will be performed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Country Club Manor at 7 pm.

An Easter sunrise service will be outdoors at the Dream Manor Inn starting at 6:30 am on March 23rd. An indoor breakfast will follow the service.

Affordable Housing Study Forum Coming To San Manuel

In 2007, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors along with the Arizona Dept. of Housing commissioned a study to look at affordable housing in Pinal County . A presentation of the study will be given. The state and Pinal County now seek citizen input on the important document.

A public forum will be held at the San Manuel High School Auditorium located at 711 McNab Parkway on March 25th, at 2 pm.

"This study will be incorporated into our Pinal County Comprehensive Plan," said Supervisor Lionel Ruiz. "It's a regional plan that looks across the county to address the need of affordable housing in every community. I would encourage residents to attend the forum and give us their ideas on the study."

Last summer public forums were held across Pinal County to solicit the public's input on the issue of affordable housing. Many of the ideas received, along with other sources of data, make up the preliminary copy of the study.

"The public's initial input is reflected in this document," said Pinal County Housing Director Adeline Allen. "This study will help us address the need for affordable housing in our nine incorporated communities and other areas."

Globe Viaduct Starts March 31st

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will begin a preservation project on the US 60 Globe Viaduct on March 31st. The work consists of replacing the bridge deck joint assemblies, repairing a section of sidewalk & bridge barrier, sealing the bridge deck & other incidental work. Truesdell Corporation of Tempe, Arizona is the prime contractor on the $248,000 project, which is scheduled to be completed in mid-April.

Work hours will be from sunrise to sunset Monday through Thursday, & sunrise to noon on Fridays. The viaduct will be narrowed to 1 lane in each direction during the project. Local drivers should consider alternate routes. The Globe Police Dept. will be on-site to monitor traffic flow & insure safe conditions for motorists & workers.

ADOT advises drivers to proceed with caution, obey all posted speed limit signs, & be alert for construction equipment & personnel. Road conditions & up-to-date restrictions can be found by dialing 511 or going online to az511.com.

Gold-N-Oldies Car Show

Gold-N-Oldies Car Club presents the 16th Annual Miami-Globe Car Show on April 4th & 5th, in downtown Miami on Sullivan St. with 26 classes of cars & trucks. There's awards for long distance & hard luck, ladies & best of show. Fantastic door prizes & raffles will be done all day long. If you would like to enter the car show, you may download the application. The first 150 entries are guaranteed t-shirts & dash plaques.

On April 4th, the burger burn is from 4 - 7 pm in Downtown Miami Park (same location as the car show). Registration opens at 3 pm.

On April 5th, the registration table opens at 7 am in downtown Miami on Sullivan St. (Enter at Forest Ave. at the light, 1 block left off Hwy. 60).

Economic Stimulus Payment Schedule Announced

The Internal Revenue Service announced that it will begin sending more than 130 million economic stimulus payments starting May 2nd. The initial round of weekly payments will be completed by early July. The economic stimulus payment schedule for related to tax returns processed by April 15th, 2008 has been announced.

The IRS also announced the availability of a new online calculator on IRS.gov to help people determine the amount of their stimulus payments.

Stimulus payments will be made by direct deposit to people who choose to receive their 2007 income tax refunds through direct deposit. All others will receive their economic stimulus payments in the form of a paper check.

"To receive an economic stimulus payment, people just need to file their tax returns as they usually do," said IRS Acting Commissioner Linda E. Stiff. "The payments will be automatic for the vast majority of taxpayers. Some lower-income workers and recipients of certain Social Security and veterans benefits who don't normally need to file a tax return will need to do so in order to receive a stimulus payment. IRS.gov has all the information people need to help them obtain a stimulus payment."

Stimulus payments will be sent out in the order of the last 2 digits of the Social Security number used on the tax return.

Because the IRS will use the Social Security number to determine when checks are mailed, taxpayers may receive their checks at different times than their neighbors or other family members. On a jointly filed return, the first Social Security number listed will determine the mail-out time.

The IRS expects to make about 34 million payments within the first 3 weeks after the payment schedule begins May 2nd. With more than 130 million households expected to receive stimulus payments, more than 25% of the payments will be made in the first 3 weeks.

Taxpayers who choose direct deposit on their federal income tax returns can expect to receive their economic stimulus payments between May 2nd & May 16th, provided their returns were received and processed by April 15th, 2008. For taxpayers who did not choose direct deposit on their tax return but whose returns were processed by April 15th, the paper checks will be in the mail starting May 16th, with the initial mailings completed by around July 11th.

The IRS is also announcing today the availability of an on-line calculator on IRS.gov to help taxpayers determine if they are eligible to receive an economic stimulus payment and if they are, how much they can expect. Anyone who has prepared a 2007 income tax return can use the calculator. It will ask taxpayers a series of questions, so they should have their 2007 tax returns handy. After answering the questions, the calculator will provide the projected dollar value of the payment.