Destiny School along with the Signal Peak Community Foundation will be participating in the Summer Food Service Program for area youth. The meals will be provided at:
Destiny School:
June 9th - July 10th (Monday - Thursday)
Breakfast: 7:45 am - 8:15 am.
Snacks: 11 am - 11:20 am.
Globe High School & Miami Pool:
June 2nd - June 6th
Snacks: 8:30 am - 9 am.
June 9th - August 1st (Monday - Friday)
Snacks: 8:30 am - 9 am.
Lunch: Noon - 1 pm.
The kids must consume the food on site.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Globe City Council Meeting
At the Globe City Council Meeting on June 2nd, Special parting remarks will be given by the Honorable Mayor Stanley M. Gibson, Vice Mayor Judy Kieran, Council Member James Haley, Council Member Terry Moya, & Council Member Ross Bittner.
After the remarks, the Honorable Mayor-Elect Fernando Shipley will be sworn-in by the Honorable Patty Nolan, City Magistrate & Justice of the Peace for the Gila County Justice Court, followed by his receiving the gavel from the retiring Mayor Gibson.
After the passing the gavel, the Council Members will then be sworn-in by the Honorable Patty Nolan. They are, Terence O. "Terry" Wheeler, Thea Wilshire, Mary Ann Uhl, Desmond "Dezi" Baker, Carmen Casillas, & Lerry Alderman.
The 6 Council Members will then randomly draw cards to determine which of the 3 Members will assume their office for a 4-year term & which will assume their office for a 2-year term; to initiate the staggered 4-year council terms as approved by the city voters in the city's March 11th, 2008 Primary City election. After that, the city counil will appoint the Vice Mayor upon the result of the draw.
Other business includes a request to consider & possibly approve the accounts payable items presented for the 2 weeks ending on May 29th, 2008.
Before the meeting comes to an end, we'll hear special remarks by the Honorable New Mayor, Vice Mayor, & Council Members.
A reception to welcome the new Mayor, Vice Mayor, & Council Members will follow the meeting.
After the remarks, the Honorable Mayor-Elect Fernando Shipley will be sworn-in by the Honorable Patty Nolan, City Magistrate & Justice of the Peace for the Gila County Justice Court, followed by his receiving the gavel from the retiring Mayor Gibson.
After the passing the gavel, the Council Members will then be sworn-in by the Honorable Patty Nolan. They are, Terence O. "Terry" Wheeler, Thea Wilshire, Mary Ann Uhl, Desmond "Dezi" Baker, Carmen Casillas, & Lerry Alderman.
The 6 Council Members will then randomly draw cards to determine which of the 3 Members will assume their office for a 4-year term & which will assume their office for a 2-year term; to initiate the staggered 4-year council terms as approved by the city voters in the city's March 11th, 2008 Primary City election. After that, the city counil will appoint the Vice Mayor upon the result of the draw.
Other business includes a request to consider & possibly approve the accounts payable items presented for the 2 weeks ending on May 29th, 2008.
Before the meeting comes to an end, we'll hear special remarks by the Honorable New Mayor, Vice Mayor, & Council Members.
A reception to welcome the new Mayor, Vice Mayor, & Council Members will follow the meeting.
CPR/AED Awareness Week
Learning CPR & how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) could mean the difference between life & death for someone suffering from sudden cardiac arrest or other medical emergency. During the first National CPR/AED Awareness Week, this June 1st - 7th, the Grand Canyon Chapter encourages everyone to learn these important skills that could someday save a life.
“The Red Cross wants the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life. At least one person in every household & on every office floor should be trained & certified in first aid & CPR/AED,” says Harry Coyle, Grand Canyon Chapter health & safety director.
“On average, it takes emergency personnel 10 minutes to arrive on scene. For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing, that may be too late. By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from being a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control & help someone during an emergency.”
Arizonans can learn to save a life by taking a Red Cross CPR/AED course. To see the class schedule & register, visit: arizonaredcross.org.
Business leaders can train their workers by setting up a Red Cross CPR/AED class at their workplace. Email training@arizonaredcross.org for details.
Another option is learning basic life-saving skills at home, in the office, in classrooms or anywhere it’s convenient to practice skills, with the Red Cross’s First Aid & CPR for Everyone Kit. Although not intended to substitute for a formal training course, this product was designed to provide consumers an educational overview of valuable first aid & CPR information & skills. The box set features an illustrated guide to demonstrate hand placement on the chest & a compression practice tool to help measure just the right amount of pressure needed to properly administer chest compressions.
In December of 2007, Congress declared the first week of June each year as National CPR/AED Awareness Week. June 1st - 7th, 2008 will mark the first National CPR & AED Awareness Week with the goal of encouraging individuals & business leaders to become trained in CPR & the use of AED.
“The Red Cross wants the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life. At least one person in every household & on every office floor should be trained & certified in first aid & CPR/AED,” says Harry Coyle, Grand Canyon Chapter health & safety director.
“On average, it takes emergency personnel 10 minutes to arrive on scene. For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing, that may be too late. By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from being a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control & help someone during an emergency.”
Arizonans can learn to save a life by taking a Red Cross CPR/AED course. To see the class schedule & register, visit: arizonaredcross.org.
Business leaders can train their workers by setting up a Red Cross CPR/AED class at their workplace. Email training@arizonaredcross.org for details.
Another option is learning basic life-saving skills at home, in the office, in classrooms or anywhere it’s convenient to practice skills, with the Red Cross’s First Aid & CPR for Everyone Kit. Although not intended to substitute for a formal training course, this product was designed to provide consumers an educational overview of valuable first aid & CPR information & skills. The box set features an illustrated guide to demonstrate hand placement on the chest & a compression practice tool to help measure just the right amount of pressure needed to properly administer chest compressions.
In December of 2007, Congress declared the first week of June each year as National CPR/AED Awareness Week. June 1st - 7th, 2008 will mark the first National CPR & AED Awareness Week with the goal of encouraging individuals & business leaders to become trained in CPR & the use of AED.
Business of the Year Nomination's
It's that time of the year to fill out the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce's nomination form for Business of the Year. The winner will be announced at the annual dinner on June 25th. The deadline for nominations is June 17th.
Friday, May 30, 2008
US 60 Gonzales Pass Construction Alert
This message is part of a series of construction alerts issued throughout the US 60 Gonzales Pass Roadway Improvement Project. The project begins approx. 1 mile east (Milepost 213.1) of the intersection of US 60 and SR79 at Florence Junction & extends east to just beyond the Queen Creek Bridge at MP 222.7. Roadway improvements on this ten mile portion of scenic highway through the Tonto National Forest will include: existing roadway widening, new roadway sections, drainage features, bridge structures, guard rail, fencing, paving, salvaging & replanting cacti and other work.
Motorists are advised to obey all posted speed limit signs within the construction area & be alert for construction crews & personnel working in the area. Impacts to the traveling public are minimal.
Construction is ahead of schedule. Project completion originally planned for August 2009 now estimated to be early November 2008.
Queen Valley Road - Temporary Detour: Beginning at 6 am, Monday, June 2nd, motorists traveling along Queen Valley Road, near its intersection with US 60, will be detoured onto a temporary surface adjacent to the existing roadway. This temporary detour will allow the contractor to construct the new Queen Valley access road safely. The detour, which is not expected to cause any additional traffic delays, will be in place through Saturday, June 7th.
· Roadway blasting has been completed for this phase of the project but excavation continues. Motorists should be alert for large equipment in the area & watch for flagmen directing traffic.
· Construction of the Queen Creek Bridge is complete. Weather permitting, painting of the bridge will begin the week of June 2nd.
· Relocation of Cactus along the new roadway has begun.
For your safety, & the safety of our construction crews, ADOT asks that you please reduce your speed through the construction zone.
Motorists are advised to obey all posted speed limit signs within the construction area & be alert for construction crews & personnel working in the area. Impacts to the traveling public are minimal.
Construction is ahead of schedule. Project completion originally planned for August 2009 now estimated to be early November 2008.
Queen Valley Road - Temporary Detour: Beginning at 6 am, Monday, June 2nd, motorists traveling along Queen Valley Road, near its intersection with US 60, will be detoured onto a temporary surface adjacent to the existing roadway. This temporary detour will allow the contractor to construct the new Queen Valley access road safely. The detour, which is not expected to cause any additional traffic delays, will be in place through Saturday, June 7th.
· Roadway blasting has been completed for this phase of the project but excavation continues. Motorists should be alert for large equipment in the area & watch for flagmen directing traffic.
· Construction of the Queen Creek Bridge is complete. Weather permitting, painting of the bridge will begin the week of June 2nd.
· Relocation of Cactus along the new roadway has begun.
For your safety, & the safety of our construction crews, ADOT asks that you please reduce your speed through the construction zone.
SCATUI, Inc. Congratulates The Class of 2008 & Tashayla Moses
San Carlos Apache Telecommunications Utility, Inc. has announced the recipient of the 2008 Don A. Tatman Memorial Scholarship. Tashayla Rose Moses, a graduate of Fort Thomas High School Class of 2008 was awarded the $1,000 Educational Scholarship on May 22nd, at the Fort Thomas High School Awards Ceremony. Tashayla Rose Moses is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Peterson Harvey Jr. of Bylas.
Tashayla plans on attending Eastern Arizona College majoring in Nursing. Her future plans include working as a Pediatric Nurse in the new hospital on the San Carlos Apache Reservation.
Everyone at San Carlos Apache Telecommunications would like to congratulate Tashayla Moses & all students in the Class of 2008. They wish all good luck & best wishes for a bright & rewarding future.
Tashayla plans on attending Eastern Arizona College majoring in Nursing. Her future plans include working as a Pediatric Nurse in the new hospital on the San Carlos Apache Reservation.
Everyone at San Carlos Apache Telecommunications would like to congratulate Tashayla Moses & all students in the Class of 2008. They wish all good luck & best wishes for a bright & rewarding future.
Miami Senior Center Presents "Diamondback Baseball Trips" This Summer
The Miami Senior Center has scheduled, "Diamondback Baseball Trips" for this summer & have only 30 tickets for each game. The tickets are only $37.50 per game. All ages are welcome to enjoy an evening at the ballpark. The games start at 6:40 pm, the busses will leave the Senior Center (500 Sullivan St. in Miami) at 4 pm. For more details call, 473-4190.
The Miami Senior Center has tickets for the following dates:
June 17th: Diamondbacks vs Oakland Athletics.
July 1st: Diamondbacks vs Milwaukee Brewers.
Aug 5th: Diamondbacks vs Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Miami Senior Center has tickets for the following dates:
June 17th: Diamondbacks vs Oakland Athletics.
July 1st: Diamondbacks vs Milwaukee Brewers.
Aug 5th: Diamondbacks vs Pittsburgh Pirates.
Weather Spotter Training Class
The National Weather Service is offering a free training class to teach people how to properly identify and report significant weather phenomena and contribute to public safety on June 14th. These classes are free and are open to anyone who is interested in severe weather &/or public service. Space is limited. The deadline to RSVP is 4 pm on June 11th. The class is June 14th, from 1 pm - 3 pm, at the Roosevelt Fire Station, 75 Capel Dr. in Roosevelt (Behind the Spring Creek Store).
If you have any questions, please contact Leana Asberry, Volunteer Coordinator for Gila County Emergency Management & Public Health Preparedness at (28) 402-8805 or Ken Waters at (602) 275-0073 at the NWS Phoenix Forecast Office.
If you have any questions, please contact Leana Asberry, Volunteer Coordinator for Gila County Emergency Management & Public Health Preparedness at (28) 402-8805 or Ken Waters at (602) 275-0073 at the NWS Phoenix Forecast Office.
Governor Napolitano Has Launched A Toll-Free Mortgage/Foreclosure Help Line
Governor Janet Napolitano announced the latest effort in a series of state initiatives to better serve Arizona families facing foreclosure. Homeowners who are either delinquent on their mortgage or face foreclosure now have a new, dedicated 24/7 toll-free help line to reach a local Arizona foreclosure counselor: 1-877-448-1211.
"In response to a problem that is increasingly affecting so many Arizona families we are launching this new toll free number in an effort to urge homeowners to not delay – to call today,” said Governor Janet Napolitano. “Troubled Arizona homeowners now have a phone number that will connect them to specialized services right here in Arizona . We urge anyone who may be at risk of foreclosure to call a local foreclosure counselor today.”
The Arizona foreclosure help line, made available through a $1.3 million federal grant, will be a vital link between families facing a housing crisis & access to free foreclosure counseling appointments. The Arizona Department of Housing is contracting with Community Information & Referral Services to staff the call center which will connect homeowners to a local, certified foreclosure counselor.
Other state efforts to address the mortgage foreclosure crisis in Arizona include:
* Expanding the Arizona Department of Housing’s Eviction & Foreclosure Prevention program (from $2.75 million to $4.2 million) & providing an additional $500,000 to support additional outreach in highly-impacted areas.
* Additional foreclosure counselors being trained across the state.
* Foreclosure Prevention Workshops for at-risk homeowners throughout Arizona.
* Leadership in the Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force, which brings together 200 organizations, lenders, community leaders & government representatives to coordinate outreach & education efforts to assist homeowners facing foreclosure.
"In response to a problem that is increasingly affecting so many Arizona families we are launching this new toll free number in an effort to urge homeowners to not delay – to call today,” said Governor Janet Napolitano. “Troubled Arizona homeowners now have a phone number that will connect them to specialized services right here in Arizona . We urge anyone who may be at risk of foreclosure to call a local foreclosure counselor today.”
The Arizona foreclosure help line, made available through a $1.3 million federal grant, will be a vital link between families facing a housing crisis & access to free foreclosure counseling appointments. The Arizona Department of Housing is contracting with Community Information & Referral Services to staff the call center which will connect homeowners to a local, certified foreclosure counselor.
Other state efforts to address the mortgage foreclosure crisis in Arizona include:
* Expanding the Arizona Department of Housing’s Eviction & Foreclosure Prevention program (from $2.75 million to $4.2 million) & providing an additional $500,000 to support additional outreach in highly-impacted areas.
* Additional foreclosure counselors being trained across the state.
* Foreclosure Prevention Workshops for at-risk homeowners throughout Arizona.
* Leadership in the Arizona Foreclosure Prevention Task Force, which brings together 200 organizations, lenders, community leaders & government representatives to coordinate outreach & education efforts to assist homeowners facing foreclosure.
Apache Healthy Foods Team To Demonstrate Healthier Snack Alternatives
The San Carlos Diabetes Prevention Program Apache Healthy Foods Team will begin Phase 2 of their program on June 2nd. The phase is "Eating Healthy Snacks" & the team will be at Bashas', C-Store, Apache Express Market, & Mt. Turnbull Market to demonstrate how much fat is in certain snack foods as compared to a healthier snack. If you'd like more information about the Diabetes Prevention Program, call (928) 475-5940.
Public Statewide Transportation Investment Strategy Hearings
The State Transportation Board will host a series of 4 public hearings in June to invite public comments on a statewide transportation program developed by the Arizona Department of Transportation collaboratively with regional & local transportation partners from across the state.
ADOT’s Statewide Transportation Investment Strategy outlines a transportation program that would be funded through a ballot initiative filed by the TIME (Transportation & Infrastructure Moving Arizona’s Economy) Coalition.
The public hearings will be held at various locations throughout the state as follows:
· Wednesday, June 4th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Northern Arizona University Cline Library Assembly Hall, in Flagstaff.
· Monday, June 9th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Town of Marana Council Chambers, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive, in Marana.
· Wednesday, June 11th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Phoenix Convention Center West 106 B & C Meeting Rooms, 100 N. 3rd Street, in Phoenix.
· Thursday, June 19th, 9 am to 11 am, Manning House, 450 W. Paseo Redondo, in Tucson.
ADOT’s Statewide Transportation Investment Strategy outlines a transportation program that would be funded through a ballot initiative filed by the TIME (Transportation & Infrastructure Moving Arizona’s Economy) Coalition.
The public hearings will be held at various locations throughout the state as follows:
· Wednesday, June 4th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Northern Arizona University Cline Library Assembly Hall, in Flagstaff.
· Monday, June 9th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Town of Marana Council Chambers, 11555 W. Civic Center Drive, in Marana.
· Wednesday, June 11th, 5 pm to 7 pm, Phoenix Convention Center West 106 B & C Meeting Rooms, 100 N. 3rd Street, in Phoenix.
· Thursday, June 19th, 9 am to 11 am, Manning House, 450 W. Paseo Redondo, in Tucson.
S.O.S. Charity Shoot Results
There was a solid turnout for the May 17th, S.O.S. (Supporting Our Servicemen/Women) Charity Shoot. At the end of the day, the shoot raised a net of $1038 for S.O.S. The Globe-Miami Gun Club would like to thank Club member Boris Marstanovic from the Desert Eagle Gun Shop for bringing out several machine and sub-machine guns plus a few .50BMG rifles for event attendees to have a opportunity to shoot. This was the biggest draw for the event. The new event "Egg Busting" also drew quite a number of shooters, as did the other regular charity shoot events on hand. The Globe-Miami Gun Club would like to thank the club members as well as the non-members that attended that made this a very successful event.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Mobile Spay/Neuter and Animal Wellness Center Visiting Globe-Miami
The Arizona Humane Society’s Mobile Spay/Neuter and Animal Wellness Center will be at the Wal-Mart located at 100 South Ragus Road in Claypool, June 3rd - 5th. For the first two days (June 3rd - 4th), mobile clinic staff will provide low-cost spay/neuter surgeries. On the last day of the event, staff will offer only vaccination services for area dogs & cats.
Not everyone can make it to AHS’ Public Clinics - whether it is from a lack of transportation or a busy schedule. Still, spaying & neutering is so vital not only for pet health, but also for reducing pet over-population. The AHS mobile clinic will come closer to pet owners, so they can take advantage of these low-cost services. The mobile clinic has a state-of-the-art surgical ward & features 4 veterinary staff members. It also includes an animal examination area with air conditioned/heated treatment & holding areas.
Spay & neuter surgery costs will range from $32 to $48 for cats, based on gender & from $53 to $95 for dogs based on gender & weight. Vaccines for dogs & cats who undergo spay/neuter surgeries also are available, & are $16 each. Other services include testing for canine heartworm & feline leukemia & treatment for ticks & fleas. Surgery check-in will begin at 7 am each day, with patients accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Because surgery space is limited, pet owners should arrive early. For more information and complete presurgical instructions, please call (602) 997-7586 ext. 3002, or visit: azhumane.org, & click on "Spay/Neuter and Wellness," then "Mobile Clinic."
What pet parents need to know about requirements at the mobile clinic:
* Spay/neuter services are available for dogs & cats ages 2 months to 5 years.
* Surgery patients cannot have food 12 hours prior to surgery (water is okay).
* Dogs & cats must weigh a minimum of 2½ pounds to undergo surgery.
* Dogs weighing more than 95 pounds cannot be accepted.
* Only 2 pets per household will be accepted for surgery, unless vacancy allows.
* All dogs must be on a leash, & all cats must be in a carrier.
Not everyone can make it to AHS’ Public Clinics - whether it is from a lack of transportation or a busy schedule. Still, spaying & neutering is so vital not only for pet health, but also for reducing pet over-population. The AHS mobile clinic will come closer to pet owners, so they can take advantage of these low-cost services. The mobile clinic has a state-of-the-art surgical ward & features 4 veterinary staff members. It also includes an animal examination area with air conditioned/heated treatment & holding areas.
Spay & neuter surgery costs will range from $32 to $48 for cats, based on gender & from $53 to $95 for dogs based on gender & weight. Vaccines for dogs & cats who undergo spay/neuter surgeries also are available, & are $16 each. Other services include testing for canine heartworm & feline leukemia & treatment for ticks & fleas. Surgery check-in will begin at 7 am each day, with patients accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Because surgery space is limited, pet owners should arrive early. For more information and complete presurgical instructions, please call (602) 997-7586 ext. 3002, or visit: azhumane.org, & click on "Spay/Neuter and Wellness," then "Mobile Clinic."
What pet parents need to know about requirements at the mobile clinic:
* Spay/neuter services are available for dogs & cats ages 2 months to 5 years.
* Surgery patients cannot have food 12 hours prior to surgery (water is okay).
* Dogs & cats must weigh a minimum of 2½ pounds to undergo surgery.
* Dogs weighing more than 95 pounds cannot be accepted.
* Only 2 pets per household will be accepted for surgery, unless vacancy allows.
* All dogs must be on a leash, & all cats must be in a carrier.
Pinal County Mosquito Teams On Alert
Pinal County Division of Environmental Health Vector Program crewmates Tami Schuler & Garry Bouquot are very busy this time of the year by trapping & testing mosquitoes for any signs of West Nile virus.
But now with the housing slow down, another challenge to keep mosquitoes at bay has landed on their doorstep, so to speak: Foreclosed properties with swimming pools that have been neglected & are becoming breeding areas for mosquitoes.
“These pools have become a bigger problem than ever in our efforts to control mosquitoes,” said Environmental Health Specialist Tami Schuler. “In prior years the number of vacant homes with neglected green swimming pools averaged around 30 in any given year. In all of 2007, we had a total of 115 reported neglected pools at vacant properties. As of May 27th, we have 117 active neglected pool complaints, for 2008.”
So now, along with their mosquito trapping & testing activities, Schuler & Bouquot are attempting to contact property owners, banks, or foreclosure trustees’ by any means necessary.
“Our Assessor’s website is a great tool to help us find the owners,” Schuler said. “If we can’t find the owner that way, we will call the banks & try to track down the owner through them.”
It is simple to treat a green pool with chemicals that stop the growth of mosquito larve.
“It’s nice that there are chemicals that will keep the mosquitoes at bay, but really we would hope that the owners would drain the pool before they leave to reduce health & child drowning hazards,” Schuler stated.
Statewide numbers of West Nile have been very low in the beginning of 2008 due to a cool spring & low rainfall. Statewide, only 2 cases of mosquito West Nile infection was reported in the Yuma & Maricopa County.
“We’ve been trapping for 2 months,” Schuler said. “We have placed 115 traps & tested 62 mosquito samples. None of the samples have shown any signs of West Nile.”
Schuler and Bouquot credit Pinal County residents for their past efforts at keeping their properties free of standing water. They are now asking residents to report any abandoned pools to their mosquito hotline at 1-866-287-0209 extension 6200 or (520) 866-6200.
“The residents have come through in the past, we are counting on them again to help us stem the mosquito population,” Schuler said. “All of us working together make a great team against West Nile & mosquitoes.”
But now with the housing slow down, another challenge to keep mosquitoes at bay has landed on their doorstep, so to speak: Foreclosed properties with swimming pools that have been neglected & are becoming breeding areas for mosquitoes.
“These pools have become a bigger problem than ever in our efforts to control mosquitoes,” said Environmental Health Specialist Tami Schuler. “In prior years the number of vacant homes with neglected green swimming pools averaged around 30 in any given year. In all of 2007, we had a total of 115 reported neglected pools at vacant properties. As of May 27th, we have 117 active neglected pool complaints, for 2008.”
So now, along with their mosquito trapping & testing activities, Schuler & Bouquot are attempting to contact property owners, banks, or foreclosure trustees’ by any means necessary.
“Our Assessor’s website is a great tool to help us find the owners,” Schuler said. “If we can’t find the owner that way, we will call the banks & try to track down the owner through them.”
It is simple to treat a green pool with chemicals that stop the growth of mosquito larve.
“It’s nice that there are chemicals that will keep the mosquitoes at bay, but really we would hope that the owners would drain the pool before they leave to reduce health & child drowning hazards,” Schuler stated.
Statewide numbers of West Nile have been very low in the beginning of 2008 due to a cool spring & low rainfall. Statewide, only 2 cases of mosquito West Nile infection was reported in the Yuma & Maricopa County.
“We’ve been trapping for 2 months,” Schuler said. “We have placed 115 traps & tested 62 mosquito samples. None of the samples have shown any signs of West Nile.”
Schuler and Bouquot credit Pinal County residents for their past efforts at keeping their properties free of standing water. They are now asking residents to report any abandoned pools to their mosquito hotline at 1-866-287-0209 extension 6200 or (520) 866-6200.
“The residents have come through in the past, we are counting on them again to help us stem the mosquito population,” Schuler said. “All of us working together make a great team against West Nile & mosquitoes.”
Found Dog
A male black lab was found with a collar without tags & is being taken care of at a residence in Six Shooter Canyon. If you lost your dog around that area, call 701-9727.
Samaritan's Purse Seeking Help For Chinese Earthquake Victims
International relief organization, Samaritan's Purse is responding to China's deadly earthquake with a cargo jet filled with tons of emergency relief supplies & has a relief team on the ground, inside China. This powerful earthquake has devastated China & left a disaster area the size of Maryland. Call Samaritan's Purse at 800-567-8183 to donate. The suffering is overwhelming, but you can help & Many are still in need of clean water & shelter.
Florence Wet Workouts
The Town of Florence Parks and Recreation is sponsoring one 6-week session of Senior Wet Workouts (55+), which will be held on Tuesdays & Thursdays mornings beginning June 10th through July 17th, from 9 am to 9:45 am.
Also, Adult Wet Workouts (18 & up), which are held on Tuesday & Thursday evenings beginning June 10th, through July 17th, from 6 pm to 6:50 pm (no classes July 4th) at the Florence Community Pool.
This is a cool & refreshing way to get in shape during the hot summer months. The fees are $20 each session.
For more information or to register contact the Parks & Recreation office located at 133 North Main St. or call 868-7589.
Also, Adult Wet Workouts (18 & up), which are held on Tuesday & Thursday evenings beginning June 10th, through July 17th, from 6 pm to 6:50 pm (no classes July 4th) at the Florence Community Pool.
This is a cool & refreshing way to get in shape during the hot summer months. The fees are $20 each session.
For more information or to register contact the Parks & Recreation office located at 133 North Main St. or call 868-7589.
Summer School Registration
On June 2nd, registration for Summer School will be in the library at the Miami High School from 8 am - Noon on a first-come, first-serve basis. The emphasis for this year's Summer School session will be on math & english placement first. Summer School will run from June 2nd - June 26th, Monday - Friday, 8 am until Noon. If you have any questions, call 425-3271.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Camp Carp VIII At Roosevelt Lake
Camp Carp VIII is May 30th & 31st, with Master carpologist Jim Warnecke, who retired from the Game and Fish Department last year, who has graciously agreed to continue this long-standing carp-catching tutorial. Come experience first-hand why carp are the NUMBER ONE sport fish in all of Europe.
The hours for Camp Carp are: 12 pm – 7 pm on Friday & 8 am – 5 pm on Saturday at Roosevelt Lake, Frazier Group Site, watch for signs.
You can experience the excitement of carp fishing & enjoy the 18-year tradition of Camp Carp with the Arizona Game & Fish Department. You can also catch carp at all times of the day, they fight like crazy! Plus, there is no limit on carp or the amount of fun you can have catching these bruisers: last year’s average was 5-pounds per fish. This year should be even better.
“We selected Roosevelt Lake for this years’ Camp Carp due to its shoreline access & fishing opportunities for lesser fish species (bass, crappie, catfish),” Warnecke said.
The Mesa Fish Program folks along with the newly retired Veteran Carpologist Jim Warnecke will provide instruction & various dough bait concoctions for budding carp anglers. Anglers are encouraged to bring their own fishing tackle. We will provide carp experts & a fish fry of "carp fingers" on Friday night. Call Natalie Robb for details at (480) 324-3541.
The hours for Camp Carp are: 12 pm – 7 pm on Friday & 8 am – 5 pm on Saturday at Roosevelt Lake, Frazier Group Site, watch for signs.
You can experience the excitement of carp fishing & enjoy the 18-year tradition of Camp Carp with the Arizona Game & Fish Department. You can also catch carp at all times of the day, they fight like crazy! Plus, there is no limit on carp or the amount of fun you can have catching these bruisers: last year’s average was 5-pounds per fish. This year should be even better.
“We selected Roosevelt Lake for this years’ Camp Carp due to its shoreline access & fishing opportunities for lesser fish species (bass, crappie, catfish),” Warnecke said.
The Mesa Fish Program folks along with the newly retired Veteran Carpologist Jim Warnecke will provide instruction & various dough bait concoctions for budding carp anglers. Anglers are encouraged to bring their own fishing tackle. We will provide carp experts & a fish fry of "carp fingers" on Friday night. Call Natalie Robb for details at (480) 324-3541.
Basketball Refs Needed
Any current male high school student or graduate from San Carlos, Fort Thomas, or Globe can apply to work the Apache Rez-Ball tournaments in Whiteriver during the summer. You must be alcohol and drug-free to work the tournaments. Not only can you earn money, you get free room/board, meals, and transportation while working the games. For more information, call Nathan at (928) 434-5678.
Gila County Democratic Party Countywide Meeting
The Gila County Democratic Party is holding a Countywide Meeting for all Democrat's on June 7th, in the Gila Community College's ITV Room at 8274 Six Shooter Canyon Road in Globe. The meeting is scheduled for 2 pm - 4 pm. Light refreshments will be served.
Adopt a Highway Celebrates 20 Years In Arizona
As Adopt a Highway celebrates its 20th anniversary in Arizona, the program is honoring some of its most dedicated volunteers who have faithfully helped clean up litter along our state’s highways. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is saying thank you for their years of service by treating them to a night at the ballpark to watch the Arizona Diamondbacks in action on June 14th.
Five volunteer groups & 3 individuals representing Adopt a Highway districts statewide were nominated to attend the event. Some of the groups have been tirelessly volunteering with Adopt a Highway since the early days of the program, which began in Arizona in 1988. Those honored include:
Sierra Vista Kiwanis (Safford District): 19 years of service.
Rotary Clubs of Sedona (Flagstaff District): 18 years of service.
Kingman Rotary Club (Kingman District): 17 years of service.
Boy Scouts of America Troop 407 (Phoenix Maintenance District): 16 years of service.
Group in Memory of Wilson A. Thomas (Globe District): 8 years of service.
Three ADOT employees are also being honored for their years of support to the Adopt a Highway program. Those individuals are LeRoy Brady, along with John Pratt & Mark Schalliol, who are retired.
"Adopt a Highway volunteers make a tremendous impact around our state,” said Stephanie Brown, Adopt a Highway program coordinator. “Litter is a huge contributing factor in storm water pollution & is also hazardous to wildlife. It’s an economic strain, since areas with litter often attract more litter. Every piece of litter picked up by our dedicated volunteers is that much less trash allowed to pollute our environment.”
Governor Janet Napolitano has proclaimed June 15th - 21st, as Adopt a Highway Week.
Arizona's Adopt a Highway program includes 2,185 groups with 10,925 volunteers adopting 2,777 of the nearly 6,000 available miles of Arizona highways. It is estimated that Adopt a Highway volunteers produced an overall labor benefit of more than $5 million for the state of Arizona last year.
Five volunteer groups & 3 individuals representing Adopt a Highway districts statewide were nominated to attend the event. Some of the groups have been tirelessly volunteering with Adopt a Highway since the early days of the program, which began in Arizona in 1988. Those honored include:
Sierra Vista Kiwanis (Safford District): 19 years of service.
Rotary Clubs of Sedona (Flagstaff District): 18 years of service.
Kingman Rotary Club (Kingman District): 17 years of service.
Boy Scouts of America Troop 407 (Phoenix Maintenance District): 16 years of service.
Group in Memory of Wilson A. Thomas (Globe District): 8 years of service.
Three ADOT employees are also being honored for their years of support to the Adopt a Highway program. Those individuals are LeRoy Brady, along with John Pratt & Mark Schalliol, who are retired.
"Adopt a Highway volunteers make a tremendous impact around our state,” said Stephanie Brown, Adopt a Highway program coordinator. “Litter is a huge contributing factor in storm water pollution & is also hazardous to wildlife. It’s an economic strain, since areas with litter often attract more litter. Every piece of litter picked up by our dedicated volunteers is that much less trash allowed to pollute our environment.”
Governor Janet Napolitano has proclaimed June 15th - 21st, as Adopt a Highway Week.
Arizona's Adopt a Highway program includes 2,185 groups with 10,925 volunteers adopting 2,777 of the nearly 6,000 available miles of Arizona highways. It is estimated that Adopt a Highway volunteers produced an overall labor benefit of more than $5 million for the state of Arizona last year.
U.S. Paralympic Track & Field Trials
The road to Beijing will wind through Tempe for the 2008 U.S. Paralympic Trials – Track & Field. The competition, which will run June 12th - 15th, at Arizona State University, is the sole qualifying event in track & field for the 2008 Paralympic Games. Arizona Disabled Sports & the City of Mesa Parks, Recreation & Commercial Facilities will act as the local organizing committee. Athletes who meet the minimum qualifying standards will be eligible to compete in the Trials.
The track at Arizona State University should prove to be great training ground for athletes, as it was recently resurfaced with the exact materials used to build the track that athletes will be racing on in Beijing. It is the only track in the U.S. with the same surface.
“We’re excited about going to the greater Mesa/Tempe area for a number of reasons,” said Troy Engle, Associate Director & Head Coach, Paralympic Track & Field. “First & foremost, we have great confidence in the local organizing committee - Arizona Disabled Sports & the City of Mesa Parks, Recreation & Commercial Facilities. They have shown a strong commitment to making this our best event ever, & after attending the Desert Challenge, we have great confidence that they’re going to put on a fantastic event – both for the elite athletes & spectators.”
The competition is expected to draw over 200 athletes with a physical disability from all over the world. The competition program is scheduled to include events that will be contested at the 2008 Paralympic Games, with the exception of the marathon. Early registration has closed, but the late entry deadline runs through June 9th.
The track at Arizona State University should prove to be great training ground for athletes, as it was recently resurfaced with the exact materials used to build the track that athletes will be racing on in Beijing. It is the only track in the U.S. with the same surface.
“We’re excited about going to the greater Mesa/Tempe area for a number of reasons,” said Troy Engle, Associate Director & Head Coach, Paralympic Track & Field. “First & foremost, we have great confidence in the local organizing committee - Arizona Disabled Sports & the City of Mesa Parks, Recreation & Commercial Facilities. They have shown a strong commitment to making this our best event ever, & after attending the Desert Challenge, we have great confidence that they’re going to put on a fantastic event – both for the elite athletes & spectators.”
The competition is expected to draw over 200 athletes with a physical disability from all over the world. The competition program is scheduled to include events that will be contested at the 2008 Paralympic Games, with the exception of the marathon. Early registration has closed, but the late entry deadline runs through June 9th.
Highway Trust Fund Face's $3.3 Billion Deficit
Without an influx of funding, the federal Highway Trust Fund will face a $3.3 billion deficit over the coming year, translating into a potential loss of $228 million for critical Arizona transportation projects.
In data released by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, the Transportation Construction Coalition & the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, the potential impact to Arizona is made clear: $228.4 million in lost federal funds & an estimated loss of nearly 8,000 related jobs.
Nationwide, the Highway Account of the federal Highway Trust Fund is projected to incur a $3.3 billion deficit in fiscal year 2009. If not corrected, the shortfall would result in a $13.5 billion cut in funding to the states, a 34% drop. The resulting job impacts are estimated to put 380,000 jobs in jeopardy, according to the groups releasing the data. Funds from the Highway Trust Fund, created in 1956, are generated primarily by gas taxes.
A congressional proposal presents a one-time funding fix for 2009. Long-term stability & an ability of current funding sources to meet Arizona's demands remain a concern, however.
The warning on funding matches comments made last week by Arizona Department of Transportation Director Victor Mendez, who told members of the State Transportation Board that the state will be unable to meet future demands for transportation improvements under current funding models without an innovative new approach.
"Arizona is facing a transportation funding crisis that requires a shift in the way we think about growth and an innovative approach to invest in our future. Our current funding model cannot deliver the future transportation system necessary to keep Arizona competitive in a global economy, preserve our natural environment & offer the quality of life that our residents enjoy today,” he wrote in a letter to board members.
"We are at a funding crossroads & must take action now to address our most critical transportation needs,” Mendez said. “ADOT has worked diligently over the past 6 months to assemble a comprehensive Statewide Transportation Investment Strategy to address Arizona's rapid growth & the sate’s future transportation needs.”
The strategy includes a balance of strategic highways, rail, public transportation, opportunities to preserve open space & wildlife connectivity, elements to support walkable/bikeable communities & funding to help local governments meet local needs.
In data released by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, the Transportation Construction Coalition & the American Association of State Highway & Transportation Officials, the potential impact to Arizona is made clear: $228.4 million in lost federal funds & an estimated loss of nearly 8,000 related jobs.
Nationwide, the Highway Account of the federal Highway Trust Fund is projected to incur a $3.3 billion deficit in fiscal year 2009. If not corrected, the shortfall would result in a $13.5 billion cut in funding to the states, a 34% drop. The resulting job impacts are estimated to put 380,000 jobs in jeopardy, according to the groups releasing the data. Funds from the Highway Trust Fund, created in 1956, are generated primarily by gas taxes.
A congressional proposal presents a one-time funding fix for 2009. Long-term stability & an ability of current funding sources to meet Arizona's demands remain a concern, however.
The warning on funding matches comments made last week by Arizona Department of Transportation Director Victor Mendez, who told members of the State Transportation Board that the state will be unable to meet future demands for transportation improvements under current funding models without an innovative new approach.
"Arizona is facing a transportation funding crisis that requires a shift in the way we think about growth and an innovative approach to invest in our future. Our current funding model cannot deliver the future transportation system necessary to keep Arizona competitive in a global economy, preserve our natural environment & offer the quality of life that our residents enjoy today,” he wrote in a letter to board members.
"We are at a funding crossroads & must take action now to address our most critical transportation needs,” Mendez said. “ADOT has worked diligently over the past 6 months to assemble a comprehensive Statewide Transportation Investment Strategy to address Arizona's rapid growth & the sate’s future transportation needs.”
The strategy includes a balance of strategic highways, rail, public transportation, opportunities to preserve open space & wildlife connectivity, elements to support walkable/bikeable communities & funding to help local governments meet local needs.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Fraudulent Money Order And Check Scam Alert
The Globe Police Department is warning everybody about a fraudulent money order & check scam. The instructions accompanying the checks try to get the victim to cash them and send part of the funds to another address and that the victim keeps the balance. This scam is utilizing the mail and the internet. If you get one of these fraudulent instruments, bring them to your local law enforcement prior to cashing it, so you don't get involved in the criminal aspect of this scam.
City Of Globe To Repair Broken Water Line
The City of Globe will repair a broken water line on E. Ash St. starting at 3 am on May 29th, at the intersection of Ash St. & 4th St. The work should only last for approx. 24 hours & they ask that you use caution when in the area. The Westbound lanes of Ash St. will be closed. The 2 Eastbound lanes will be restricted to one lane. Also, 4th St. between Maple St. and Ash St. and between Monroe St. and Ash St. will only be open to local trafiic.
Lake Pleasant North Entrance Closure
The Lake Pleasant Regional Park will be hosting the DCB Zoot Sprint Triathlon on Friday, June 6th, through Saturday, June 7th. The event will close the 4-lane boat ramp on Friday, June 6th, at 5 pm; however, it will reopen to the public at 11 am on Saturday. Park visitors are encouraged to use the 10-lane boat ramp on South Park Road accessed through the main entrance of Lake Pleasant Regional Park.
The event will also impact southbound traffic on Castle Hot Springs Road on Saturday as cyclists will be on the roadway from 7 am to 9 am. Deputies from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to direct traffic.
For more information, contact the park directly at (602) 372-7460. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located at 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd. in Morristown.
The event will also impact southbound traffic on Castle Hot Springs Road on Saturday as cyclists will be on the roadway from 7 am to 9 am. Deputies from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office will be on hand to direct traffic.
For more information, contact the park directly at (602) 372-7460. Lake Pleasant Regional Park is located at 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Rd. in Morristown.
Bill Roten and Friends
Fill your ears with some great Fiddle Music by Bill Roten and Friends at 6pm on June 6th. They will perform at the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center and Museum, 21 Plaza Circle in Miami. Call 473-3700 for more details on this free event.
Shipley Holding Election Celebration
On June 7th, Fernando & his wife are inviting everyone to join them to celebrate his election as Mayor of Globe. The celebration will take place at his State Farm Insurance office in Globe at, 1400 N. Broad St. in Globe. They will be serving their famous"Miami Lions Super Tacos", beans & rice. They will also have beverages on hand. The celebration will start at 4 pm and should wrap up around 10 pm. People will be coming & going the whole time so join them when you can & you are welcome to bring a friend.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Some Country/Folk CDs Out This Week
Steve Azar - Indianola
The Youngbloods - Elephant Mountain
Andy Griggs - The Good Life
Ryan Shupe - Last Man Standing
The Youngbloods - Elephant Mountain
Andy Griggs - The Good Life
Ryan Shupe - Last Man Standing
Some DVDs Out This Week
Rambo
The Three Stooges Collection, Vol. 2: 1937-1939
NASCAR: Full Throttle Adrenaline
Ultimate Fighting Championship, Vol. 81
WWE: Backlash 2008
ESPN Ringside: Ringside Rivalries
Serenity
Rawhide: Season 3, Vol. 1
The Eddie Murphy Comedy Collection
Steve Miller Band - Live From Chicago
Gunsmoke: The 2nd Season, Vol. 2
Cleaner
Holocaust
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (2003) Vol. 2
Grace Is Gone
Cassandra's Dream
Bomb It
The Invaders - The 1st Season
Degrassi The Next Generation - Season 6
The Walker
Absolutely Fabulous - Absolutely Everything
Lipstick Jungle - Season 1
The Three Stooges Collection, Vol. 2: 1937-1939
NASCAR: Full Throttle Adrenaline
Ultimate Fighting Championship, Vol. 81
WWE: Backlash 2008
ESPN Ringside: Ringside Rivalries
Serenity
Rawhide: Season 3, Vol. 1
The Eddie Murphy Comedy Collection
Steve Miller Band - Live From Chicago
Gunsmoke: The 2nd Season, Vol. 2
Cleaner
Holocaust
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (2003) Vol. 2
Grace Is Gone
Cassandra's Dream
Bomb It
The Invaders - The 1st Season
Degrassi The Next Generation - Season 6
The Walker
Absolutely Fabulous - Absolutely Everything
Lipstick Jungle - Season 1
Florence Parks and Recreation Department Learn to Swim Program
The Town of Florence and Southwest Ambulance is sponsoring a Learn to Swim Program where children and adults can learn the fundamentals of swimming. A variety of classes will be offered throughout various sessions. Each session is $12. The first set of classes is scheduled for June 2nd. For a detailed description of each class, pick up a Summer Brochure at the Parks and Recreation Department, located at 133 N. Main St.
For questions please feel free to contact the Parks and Recreation Office at 868-7589.
For questions please feel free to contact the Parks and Recreation Office at 868-7589.
Public Forum On Maricopa County School District Unification Plans
The public and members of the educational communities are invited to a public forum hosted by the School District Redistricting Commission (SDRC) on June 10th, 6:30 pm to review the plans that will be on the ballot to create six new unified school districts in Maricopa County. The plans will affect students at 34 of the county's non-unified school districts. The plans involve four defined regions of the county, including Central Maricopa, North Central Maricopa, the East & the West Valleys. At the forum, voters will learn the details of the plan, some background information on each of the affected districts, & be able to ask questions of the Commissioners involved in the unification efforts.
The forum will be held at the Phoenix College's Dome Conference Room, 3310 N. 10th Ave., in Phoenix (Osborn site south off of 11th Ave. & Flower Street, parking on north side of building complex).
To view county-by-county details of the proposed plan, visit the Arizona Department of Education Web site & download the report entitled “Attachment A: Approved Redistricting Plans.”
Additional public forums will be scheduled, starting in late summer/fall, for voters in the eight other Arizona counties impacted by the plans. These include Cochise, La Paz, Mohave, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yavapai & Yuma counties. Additional forums for Maricopa County addressing the West Valley and East Valley plans may also be planned for late summer.
Qualified Maricopa County voters in the 34 affected school districts will have the opportunity to approve or reject the redistricting plan by voting on a set of ballot questions during the November 2008 elections. If approved, the districts will be unified for July 1st, 2010, or the beginning of the 2010 school year.
In 2005, a law was passed by the Arizona Legislature to appoint a Commission to study Arizona’s schools & make recommendations for creating unified districts out of the current set of 108 common school districts & 15 union districts. A unified district is one that is geographically defined & offers aligned curriculum for students Kindergarten through grade 12. In December 2007, the Commission formally presented its recommendations to Governor Napolitano.
The forum will be held at the Phoenix College's Dome Conference Room, 3310 N. 10th Ave., in Phoenix (Osborn site south off of 11th Ave. & Flower Street, parking on north side of building complex).
To view county-by-county details of the proposed plan, visit the Arizona Department of Education Web site & download the report entitled “Attachment A: Approved Redistricting Plans.”
Additional public forums will be scheduled, starting in late summer/fall, for voters in the eight other Arizona counties impacted by the plans. These include Cochise, La Paz, Mohave, Pima, Pinal, Santa Cruz, Yavapai & Yuma counties. Additional forums for Maricopa County addressing the West Valley and East Valley plans may also be planned for late summer.
Qualified Maricopa County voters in the 34 affected school districts will have the opportunity to approve or reject the redistricting plan by voting on a set of ballot questions during the November 2008 elections. If approved, the districts will be unified for July 1st, 2010, or the beginning of the 2010 school year.
In 2005, a law was passed by the Arizona Legislature to appoint a Commission to study Arizona’s schools & make recommendations for creating unified districts out of the current set of 108 common school districts & 15 union districts. A unified district is one that is geographically defined & offers aligned curriculum for students Kindergarten through grade 12. In December 2007, the Commission formally presented its recommendations to Governor Napolitano.
Wessel Added To Arizona MEP Board of Directors
Vickie Wessel, founder & president of Spirit Electronics, Inc., is the newest addition to the Arizona Manufacturing Partnership’s (Arizona MEP) Board of Directors. Wessel has more than 30 years of experience in the electronics industry, & more specifically, has worked in sales, marketing, procurements, operations, contracts, & financial & quality systems management. She founded Spirit in 1979, a company that specializes in supplying products & services to the military & aerospace industries.
“Vickie is very driven, & is committed to continually improving operations at Spirit. She has participated in a number of Lean manufacturing & process improvement activities, & she knows first-hand how the Arizona MEP can help manufacturers in the state,” said Gene Lussier, chairman of the Arizona MEP Board of Directors. “We know what an advocate she will be for the Arizona MEP, as well as an asset to our board.”
Wessel is also a member of the Aerospace Industries Association’s (AIA) Supplier Management Council (SMC), actively serving on the SMC Executive Committee. In 2005, she received the AIA’s Amelia Earhart Award, recognizing women who achieve excellence in the aerospace & defense industry. Wessel also represented suppliers on the association’s Board of Governors for 2 years & has worked as an advocate to Congress and the administration for small, disadvantaged & woman-owned businesses.
The Arizona MEP is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) under the U.S. Department of Commerce. The national MEP is a network of manufacturing extension centers that provide business & technical assistance to smaller manufacturers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia & Puerto Rico. Through MEP, manufacturers have access to more than 2,000 manufacturing & business “coaches” whose job is to help firms make changes that lead to greater productivity, increased profits, & enhanced global competitiveness. For more information on the Arizona MEP program call (480) 874-9100.
“Vickie is very driven, & is committed to continually improving operations at Spirit. She has participated in a number of Lean manufacturing & process improvement activities, & she knows first-hand how the Arizona MEP can help manufacturers in the state,” said Gene Lussier, chairman of the Arizona MEP Board of Directors. “We know what an advocate she will be for the Arizona MEP, as well as an asset to our board.”
Wessel is also a member of the Aerospace Industries Association’s (AIA) Supplier Management Council (SMC), actively serving on the SMC Executive Committee. In 2005, she received the AIA’s Amelia Earhart Award, recognizing women who achieve excellence in the aerospace & defense industry. Wessel also represented suppliers on the association’s Board of Governors for 2 years & has worked as an advocate to Congress and the administration for small, disadvantaged & woman-owned businesses.
The Arizona MEP is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) under the U.S. Department of Commerce. The national MEP is a network of manufacturing extension centers that provide business & technical assistance to smaller manufacturers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia & Puerto Rico. Through MEP, manufacturers have access to more than 2,000 manufacturing & business “coaches” whose job is to help firms make changes that lead to greater productivity, increased profits, & enhanced global competitiveness. For more information on the Arizona MEP program call (480) 874-9100.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Globe City Council Meeting
The Globe City Council will hold a meeting on May 27th, due to Memorial Day on Monday. They will start the session at 6 pm, in the Municipal Building, 150 N. Pine St. in Globe.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Globe Community Pool News
The City of Globe Community Pool will open May 25th, at Noon. The hours will be 12 pm to 5 pm, 7 days a week.There will be adult (18 years and over) lap swimming from 5 pm to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. Daily rates are $1 for ages 12 and under; $2 for ages 13 to adult. Swim passes are also available at $230 for a family & $80 for singles.
Due to structural problems, the baby pool will not be open this year. If you have any questions, call 425-8446.
Due to structural problems, the baby pool will not be open this year. If you have any questions, call 425-8446.
FEMA Gives Pinal County $1.7 Million To Repair Bridge
The bridge that has needed repair is the 2-lane bridge on Schnepf Road south of Ocotillo. The bridge was damaged by floodwaters in 2005 & county officials plan to restore it to pre-disaster condition. The FEMA funds will cover 75% of the total needed for this project. The remaining amount will come from the state.
The Fair Will Proceed
With the downturn in the economy, the state has cut funding to aid County fairs. In doing so, the Gila County Fair will adjust accordingly. They will be relying on help from the local area in getting the fair to operate as smoothly as possible. The monie that had come in from the state was used to bring in the outside entertainment. That is the main thing that would have to be sacrificied. Other than that, the fair will proceed that way for at least this year and the next.
Arizona Game and Fish Lifts A Few Fire Restrictions
Restrictions have been lifted at the following state wildlife areas:
* Allen Severson Wildlife Area
* Chevelon Canyon Ranches Wildlife Area
* Chevelon Creek Wildlife Area
* Jacques Marsh Wildlife Area
* Luna Lake Wildlife Area
* Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area
For the latest updates on fire restrictions in Arizona, visit the Public Lands Information Center.
* Allen Severson Wildlife Area
* Chevelon Canyon Ranches Wildlife Area
* Chevelon Creek Wildlife Area
* Jacques Marsh Wildlife Area
* Luna Lake Wildlife Area
* Sipe White Mountain Wildlife Area
For the latest updates on fire restrictions in Arizona, visit the Public Lands Information Center.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Latest Women On Target Clinic Was A Success
Despite the rain on the evening of May 13th, the spirits and fun of the Women On Target Clinic held at the Globe Miami Gun Club were not dampened. Twenty-four women & twelve coaches enjoyed the handgun workshop. The participants were encouraged to bring their own firearms to the event to learn how to safely handle, clean & shoot. When the Clinic was over, each participant was awarded a completion certificate from National Rifle Association’s Women on Target Division & a universal gun cleaning kit paid for by a Friends of NRA Grant.
The evening was concluded by a barbeque dinner at the picnic ground within the Bixby Road Range.
The evening was concluded by a barbeque dinner at the picnic ground within the Bixby Road Range.
ADOT Receives Aviation Leadership Award
The Arizona Department of Transportation’s Aeronautics Division has been recognized throughout the aviation industry as a leader among hundreds of airports & aeronautics divisions nationally. ADOT, in partnership with 3 other agencies in Arizona, spent more than a year developing a best practices manual. That manual now serves as a critical guideline for all airports in Arizona to successfully manage & administer grant programs through the state & the FAA.
It was this project that convinced the FAA’s Western-Pacific Region to award ADOT’s Aeronautics Division & the Arizona Best Practices Team with one of the agency’s most prestigious honors. The Herman C. Bliss Airports Partnership Award was presented earlier this month to ADOT during the region’s annual Airports Conference in Los Angeles. Aeronautics Division Director Barclay Dick accepted the award on behalf of ADOT.
The Arizona Best Practices Team is comprised of ADOT’s Aeronautics Division, the Arizona Airports Association & 2 consultants, Coffman Associates and Z & H Engineering.
"We should continually strive to make each other's jobs easier," Dick said. "That's what the Best Practices manual is intended to do for airport development stakeholders. I'm proud of the role the Aeronautics Division played in this effort & I appreciate the FAAR's recognition."
This is the second time the Herman C. Bliss Airports Partnership Award has been presented. Every airport & aviation division in every state is eligible for the award.
Herman C. Bliss was a longtime manager of the Airport District Office for the FAA’s Western Pacific Region. During his 40-year career, he was instrumental is helping airports expand services to better accommodate the traveling public.
ADOT's Aeronautics Division registers all general aviation aircraft in Arizona & issues grants & loans to the state's public airports. The division also operates the Grand Canyon National Park Airport & facilitates the state's Aviation Education Outreach program.
It was this project that convinced the FAA’s Western-Pacific Region to award ADOT’s Aeronautics Division & the Arizona Best Practices Team with one of the agency’s most prestigious honors. The Herman C. Bliss Airports Partnership Award was presented earlier this month to ADOT during the region’s annual Airports Conference in Los Angeles. Aeronautics Division Director Barclay Dick accepted the award on behalf of ADOT.
The Arizona Best Practices Team is comprised of ADOT’s Aeronautics Division, the Arizona Airports Association & 2 consultants, Coffman Associates and Z & H Engineering.
"We should continually strive to make each other's jobs easier," Dick said. "That's what the Best Practices manual is intended to do for airport development stakeholders. I'm proud of the role the Aeronautics Division played in this effort & I appreciate the FAAR's recognition."
This is the second time the Herman C. Bliss Airports Partnership Award has been presented. Every airport & aviation division in every state is eligible for the award.
Herman C. Bliss was a longtime manager of the Airport District Office for the FAA’s Western Pacific Region. During his 40-year career, he was instrumental is helping airports expand services to better accommodate the traveling public.
ADOT's Aeronautics Division registers all general aviation aircraft in Arizona & issues grants & loans to the state's public airports. The division also operates the Grand Canyon National Park Airport & facilitates the state's Aviation Education Outreach program.
Wrestling Reinstated At ASU
Arizona State University Vice President for Athletics Lisa Love announced today that the athletic department is fully reinstating the sport of varsity wrestling, effective immediately, due to financial support from local civic leadership. The reinstatement of wrestling gives ASU 21 sports in its varsity athletic program.
"It is with great pleasure that I announce the reinstatement of the varsity sport of wrestling at ASU," says Love. "The wrestling community, both locally and nationally, accepted this as a challenge to do something wonderful for the sport. ASU is forever grateful for that passion and unwavering support. Something special is happening on our campus thanks to civic leadership that cares deeply about ASU wrestling."
ASU had announced on May 13th, 2008 that it was discontinuing the sport of wrestling due to the rising cost of operating a 22-sport varsity program. It was determined at that time that sponsoring a 20-sport program would better fit ASU's athletic financial profile. Love indicated at the time that if the wrestling community were able to raise enough financial support the sport could be reinstated. That commitment is there and the sport will continue at Arizona State.
Love said that fundraising for the sport of wrestling will be an ongoing process. The objective is not just to sponsor wrestling as a varsity sport, but to position the sport as one of the top programs in the country.
"It is with great pleasure that I announce the reinstatement of the varsity sport of wrestling at ASU," says Love. "The wrestling community, both locally and nationally, accepted this as a challenge to do something wonderful for the sport. ASU is forever grateful for that passion and unwavering support. Something special is happening on our campus thanks to civic leadership that cares deeply about ASU wrestling."
ASU had announced on May 13th, 2008 that it was discontinuing the sport of wrestling due to the rising cost of operating a 22-sport varsity program. It was determined at that time that sponsoring a 20-sport program would better fit ASU's athletic financial profile. Love indicated at the time that if the wrestling community were able to raise enough financial support the sport could be reinstated. That commitment is there and the sport will continue at Arizona State.
Love said that fundraising for the sport of wrestling will be an ongoing process. The objective is not just to sponsor wrestling as a varsity sport, but to position the sport as one of the top programs in the country.
Stronawski Named “Rising Star”
In only three years as a member of the bar, Stronawski has applied herself to being noticed as a “Rising Star” by the Arizona Public Defenders Association.
Chief Public Defender Mary Wisdom nominated Stronawski for the award. “I am honored & extremely grateful,” Stronawski said.
Stronawski graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School & earned a Master of Law degree in Indigenous People’s Law from the University of Arizona. She is licensed to practice law in the state of Arizona & on the Tohono O’odham Nation.
“Lisa has shown uncommon ability, work ethic, courage & promise in the time she has been with Pinal County,” Wisdom said. “I expect her to become one of the preeminent defense lawyers in Arizona.”
Since coming to Pinal County, Stronawski has steadily increased her workload on complex cases. She has represented clients on various charges from arson to burglary.
“I love my job,” Stronawski said. “It is very rewarding to represent people who can not afford to hire a lawyer & otherwise would not get the help they need.”
In a county which has 4 Native American communities within its borders, Stronawski’s post doctoral training in Indigenous People’s Law has coming in handy not only for herself but her fellow defenders as well. According to Wisdom, Stronawski is always ready to step in & help other attorneys when they have questions.
“Her knowledge in Native American Law is invaluable,” Wisdom stated. “Stronawski has gone the extra mile to learn about treatment programs & other services available to members of the Native American communities.”
In addition to her in-depth knowledge of Native American law. Stronawski also works with mentally challenged clients. In several cases, Stronawski has spent extra hours outside of the daily work schedule to offer them assistance.
She has responded to emergency rooms & homes. She has taken phone calls from mentally challenged client on weekends & evenings. “It’s more than just representing their rights in a courtroom,” Stronawski said. “It’s also about getting them the services they need.”
Stronawski will receive the Rising Star award at the Arizona Public Defenders Association statewide conference in June.
Chief Public Defender Mary Wisdom nominated Stronawski for the award. “I am honored & extremely grateful,” Stronawski said.
Stronawski graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School & earned a Master of Law degree in Indigenous People’s Law from the University of Arizona. She is licensed to practice law in the state of Arizona & on the Tohono O’odham Nation.
“Lisa has shown uncommon ability, work ethic, courage & promise in the time she has been with Pinal County,” Wisdom said. “I expect her to become one of the preeminent defense lawyers in Arizona.”
Since coming to Pinal County, Stronawski has steadily increased her workload on complex cases. She has represented clients on various charges from arson to burglary.
“I love my job,” Stronawski said. “It is very rewarding to represent people who can not afford to hire a lawyer & otherwise would not get the help they need.”
In a county which has 4 Native American communities within its borders, Stronawski’s post doctoral training in Indigenous People’s Law has coming in handy not only for herself but her fellow defenders as well. According to Wisdom, Stronawski is always ready to step in & help other attorneys when they have questions.
“Her knowledge in Native American Law is invaluable,” Wisdom stated. “Stronawski has gone the extra mile to learn about treatment programs & other services available to members of the Native American communities.”
In addition to her in-depth knowledge of Native American law. Stronawski also works with mentally challenged clients. In several cases, Stronawski has spent extra hours outside of the daily work schedule to offer them assistance.
She has responded to emergency rooms & homes. She has taken phone calls from mentally challenged client on weekends & evenings. “It’s more than just representing their rights in a courtroom,” Stronawski said. “It’s also about getting them the services they need.”
Stronawski will receive the Rising Star award at the Arizona Public Defenders Association statewide conference in June.
Sanchez Changes Plea
Former United States Border Patrol Agent Juan Luis Sanchez, has pleaded guilty to the drug, bribery and worker’s compensation fraud charges against him in a federal district court in Tucson on May 22nd.
According to information from the F.B.I.:
At his change of plea hearing on May 20th, 2008 before U.S. District Court Chief Judge John M. Roll, Sanchez pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, bribery of a public official, & worker’s compensation fraud. Sanchez admitted to facts showing that he transported marijuana in his Border Patrol vehicle on 6 separate occasions from Summer 2002 through January 28th, 2004. The loads ranged in size from 376 pounds to 921 pounds.
Sanchez estimated he transported at least 3,000 pounds of marijuana over the course of the conspiracy & received a total of $45,000 in bribes. Sanchez also admitted to fraud relating to worker’s compensation benefits he received following an on-duty vehicle accident that occurred after the drug trafficking activities but prior to his arrest. Sanchez admitted that by March 2008 his medical condition had improved, such that he was no longer entitled to benefits, but that he failed to notify the U.S. Department of Labor of the improvement in his condition.
A conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a $4 million fine or both. The bribery charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. The fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. In determining an actual sentence, Chief Judge Roll will consult the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide appropriate sentencing ranges. The judge, however, is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.
Sentencing is set before Chief Judge Roll on August 13th, 2008. The investigation in this case was conducted by the Southwest Border Corruption Task Force in Tucson, which is comprised of agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Professional Responsibility, Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, & the Tucson Police Department. Assistance for this investigation also came from the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General along with assistance & full cooperation of the U.S. Border Patrol. The prosecution is being handled by Mary Sue Feldmeier, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
According to information from the F.B.I.:
At his change of plea hearing on May 20th, 2008 before U.S. District Court Chief Judge John M. Roll, Sanchez pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana, bribery of a public official, & worker’s compensation fraud. Sanchez admitted to facts showing that he transported marijuana in his Border Patrol vehicle on 6 separate occasions from Summer 2002 through January 28th, 2004. The loads ranged in size from 376 pounds to 921 pounds.
Sanchez estimated he transported at least 3,000 pounds of marijuana over the course of the conspiracy & received a total of $45,000 in bribes. Sanchez also admitted to fraud relating to worker’s compensation benefits he received following an on-duty vehicle accident that occurred after the drug trafficking activities but prior to his arrest. Sanchez admitted that by March 2008 his medical condition had improved, such that he was no longer entitled to benefits, but that he failed to notify the U.S. Department of Labor of the improvement in his condition.
A conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a $4 million fine or both. The bribery charge carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. The fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. In determining an actual sentence, Chief Judge Roll will consult the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which provide appropriate sentencing ranges. The judge, however, is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.
Sentencing is set before Chief Judge Roll on August 13th, 2008. The investigation in this case was conducted by the Southwest Border Corruption Task Force in Tucson, which is comprised of agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Office of Professional Responsibility, Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, & the Tucson Police Department. Assistance for this investigation also came from the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General along with assistance & full cooperation of the U.S. Border Patrol. The prosecution is being handled by Mary Sue Feldmeier, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson.
Flooding Forces Closure Of Hidden Valley Roads
The Pinal County Department of Public Works would like to inform Hidden Valley residents of road closures due to flooding in the Vekol Wash.
Farrell Road, Ralston Road & Val Vista Road are all closed at the Vekol Wash until further notice.
The Public Works Department asks that all motorists obey the closures & not try to cross any flooded washes.
For more information please call the Pinal County Road Information Line at (520) 866-6078.
Farrell Road, Ralston Road & Val Vista Road are all closed at the Vekol Wash until further notice.
The Public Works Department asks that all motorists obey the closures & not try to cross any flooded washes.
For more information please call the Pinal County Road Information Line at (520) 866-6078.
Florence 4th of July Co-ed Mud Volleyball Registrations Being Accepted
The Town of Florence Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual Co-ed Mud Volleyball Tournament on Friday, July 4th. This is a tournament designed to be competitive & fun! Be prepared to get dirty & show off your volleyball skills. Awards are provided for 1st & 2nd place teams.
Organize your team today; only the first 12 teams to register are accepted. This double elimination tournament is scheduled to begin at 3 pm at Heritage Park during their 4th of July festivities. There is a fee of $30 per team, which must be paid prior to Friday, June 27th, at 5 pm. There is a fee of $40 per team after June 27. Register at the Florence Parks and Recreation and Fitness Center, located at 132 North Bailey Street.
For more information call 868-7586.
Organize your team today; only the first 12 teams to register are accepted. This double elimination tournament is scheduled to begin at 3 pm at Heritage Park during their 4th of July festivities. There is a fee of $30 per team, which must be paid prior to Friday, June 27th, at 5 pm. There is a fee of $40 per team after June 27. Register at the Florence Parks and Recreation and Fitness Center, located at 132 North Bailey Street.
For more information call 868-7586.
Raising Graduation Rates Report Calls For Change To Come From The State Level
Even as the nation’s high school graduation rate remains flat & too many students drop out, most states are failing to take actions to reverse this troubling pattern & in turn help more students attend & succeed in college. The report released by Jobs for the Future (JFF) gives state policymakers a detailed framework for helping all students persevere & succeed in & beyond high school. It also highlights more than 20 states & school districts that are already raising standards and graduation rates.
The report, Raising Graduation Rates in an Era of High Standards: Five Commitments for State Action, calls on states to exercise crucial leadership, especially for low-income students, who are more likely than their more affluent peers to drop out of high school or be unprepared for college & work. The United States must explore & implement strategies that help more students complete high school & succeed in college if the nation is going to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding global marketplace.
“For the sake of our students and our nation, we urge state policymakers to review the recommendations in this report and commit to implementing them as soon as possible,” said Marlene B. Seltzer, JFF’s president and CEO. “In doing so, states can raise graduation rates without compromising high college- and work-readiness standards and take a critical step to improving the economic prospects of our citizenry and our nation as a whole.”
Today, just 65% of low-income students earn a high school diploma, & only 21% of those graduates are adequately prepared for college-level work, the report notes. By comparison, more than 90% of middle- and upper-class students graduate, & 54% are prepared for college.
“The nation’s schools are falling behind & America’s students, particularly low-income & minority students, are not prepared to compete in the global economy,” said former Colorado Gov. Roy Romer. “We are facing a national crisis that can only be solved with strong leadership. I urge all citizens to send a message to their state leaders: Tell them America’s failing schools are a detriment to America’s economic standing & demand action now.”
The report comes out of a joint project between JFF & Achieve, Inc. JFF is working to help states identify & implement aggressive policies to help more young people—particularly those from low-income families & low-performing schools—stay in school as states ratchet up academic standards & expectations. Several such examples that are being used today are highlighted in this report.
Drawing on a growing body of research & innovative practices, as well as recent actions by states to support the twin goals of college readiness & graduation, Jobs for the Future’s new report urges states to adopt five commitments:
1. Create a high school diploma that signifies college- and work-readiness. While a number of factors can affect whether a student completes college, completion of a high-intensity & high-quality program of study has a significant impact on the later success of low-income & minority students. State policymakers need to develop ways to monitor course content, student achievement, & course-taking patterns while also encouraging opportunities for innovation at the local level. Dual enrollment & other forms of college course-taking in high school should be considered.
2. Establish pathways to high school graduation & college for overage, undercredited, & out-of-school youth. Lawmakers have the unique ability to create the conditions that allow for & foster new models for helping these students. In addition to highly skilled teachers & leaders, school developers often need charter-like conditions such as low enrollments, academic rigor, & other factors that give them the flexibility to do what is necessary to best serve their pupils.
3. Turn around low-performing high schools. America’s “dropout factories,” a mere 15% of public high schools, produce more than half of the dropouts & have proven immune to several generations of reform. States must identify these schools, & then create the conditions, capacity, & resources to turn them around.
4. Increase the emphasis on graduation rates & college-readiness in the next generation of accountability. High school graduation rates & college preparation are often overlooked in the current focus on improving student test scores. In order to make these factors an integral part of the next wave of accountability, states should set clear targets for progress & develop an expanded set of indicators for holding high schools accountable for their graduation rates.
5. Provide early & continuous support for struggling students. High school dropouts do not develop overnight. Indeed, research has identified specific “early warning” indicators, such as sporadic attendance & failing core academic classes in middle school or 9th grade. States need to support districts’ efforts to gather & act on this data before it is too late.
Here are some of the state-led reform efforts that JFF highlights as already following its framework for success:
· Oregon’s Alternative Education Policies: Under state law, all school districts are required to provide alternative learning options for students. These options must be flexible with regard to environment, time, structure, & pedagogy.
· North Carolina’s “Learn and Earn” Schools: Students in the state’s “Learn and Earn” high schools can earn both a high school diploma & up to 2 years of college credit or an associate degree, tuition free.
· Florida’s Requirements for Low-Performing Schools: Low-performing schools that repeatedly fail to make progress are subject to a state-imposed reform plan that requires school districts to take action on 26 reform measures.
· Louisiana’s Graduation Index: Education leaders developed an accountability system that creates incentives for high schools to both keep students enrolled until they graduate & provide a rigorous curriculum through their senior year.
Raising Graduation Rates in an Era of High Standards: Five Commitments for State Action was written by Adria Steinberg, associate vice president, & Cheryl Almeida, program director.
The report, Raising Graduation Rates in an Era of High Standards: Five Commitments for State Action, calls on states to exercise crucial leadership, especially for low-income students, who are more likely than their more affluent peers to drop out of high school or be unprepared for college & work. The United States must explore & implement strategies that help more students complete high school & succeed in college if the nation is going to remain competitive in an increasingly demanding global marketplace.
“For the sake of our students and our nation, we urge state policymakers to review the recommendations in this report and commit to implementing them as soon as possible,” said Marlene B. Seltzer, JFF’s president and CEO. “In doing so, states can raise graduation rates without compromising high college- and work-readiness standards and take a critical step to improving the economic prospects of our citizenry and our nation as a whole.”
Today, just 65% of low-income students earn a high school diploma, & only 21% of those graduates are adequately prepared for college-level work, the report notes. By comparison, more than 90% of middle- and upper-class students graduate, & 54% are prepared for college.
“The nation’s schools are falling behind & America’s students, particularly low-income & minority students, are not prepared to compete in the global economy,” said former Colorado Gov. Roy Romer. “We are facing a national crisis that can only be solved with strong leadership. I urge all citizens to send a message to their state leaders: Tell them America’s failing schools are a detriment to America’s economic standing & demand action now.”
The report comes out of a joint project between JFF & Achieve, Inc. JFF is working to help states identify & implement aggressive policies to help more young people—particularly those from low-income families & low-performing schools—stay in school as states ratchet up academic standards & expectations. Several such examples that are being used today are highlighted in this report.
Drawing on a growing body of research & innovative practices, as well as recent actions by states to support the twin goals of college readiness & graduation, Jobs for the Future’s new report urges states to adopt five commitments:
1. Create a high school diploma that signifies college- and work-readiness. While a number of factors can affect whether a student completes college, completion of a high-intensity & high-quality program of study has a significant impact on the later success of low-income & minority students. State policymakers need to develop ways to monitor course content, student achievement, & course-taking patterns while also encouraging opportunities for innovation at the local level. Dual enrollment & other forms of college course-taking in high school should be considered.
2. Establish pathways to high school graduation & college for overage, undercredited, & out-of-school youth. Lawmakers have the unique ability to create the conditions that allow for & foster new models for helping these students. In addition to highly skilled teachers & leaders, school developers often need charter-like conditions such as low enrollments, academic rigor, & other factors that give them the flexibility to do what is necessary to best serve their pupils.
3. Turn around low-performing high schools. America’s “dropout factories,” a mere 15% of public high schools, produce more than half of the dropouts & have proven immune to several generations of reform. States must identify these schools, & then create the conditions, capacity, & resources to turn them around.
4. Increase the emphasis on graduation rates & college-readiness in the next generation of accountability. High school graduation rates & college preparation are often overlooked in the current focus on improving student test scores. In order to make these factors an integral part of the next wave of accountability, states should set clear targets for progress & develop an expanded set of indicators for holding high schools accountable for their graduation rates.
5. Provide early & continuous support for struggling students. High school dropouts do not develop overnight. Indeed, research has identified specific “early warning” indicators, such as sporadic attendance & failing core academic classes in middle school or 9th grade. States need to support districts’ efforts to gather & act on this data before it is too late.
Here are some of the state-led reform efforts that JFF highlights as already following its framework for success:
· Oregon’s Alternative Education Policies: Under state law, all school districts are required to provide alternative learning options for students. These options must be flexible with regard to environment, time, structure, & pedagogy.
· North Carolina’s “Learn and Earn” Schools: Students in the state’s “Learn and Earn” high schools can earn both a high school diploma & up to 2 years of college credit or an associate degree, tuition free.
· Florida’s Requirements for Low-Performing Schools: Low-performing schools that repeatedly fail to make progress are subject to a state-imposed reform plan that requires school districts to take action on 26 reform measures.
· Louisiana’s Graduation Index: Education leaders developed an accountability system that creates incentives for high schools to both keep students enrolled until they graduate & provide a rigorous curriculum through their senior year.
Raising Graduation Rates in an Era of High Standards: Five Commitments for State Action was written by Adria Steinberg, associate vice president, & Cheryl Almeida, program director.
Napolitano Adds Gas-Saving Toolkit To The Governor's Site
Understanding that Arizona consumers are looking for help when it comes to beating high gas prices, Governor Janet Napolitano has added a new consumer toolkit to, azgovernor.gov. By clicking on the button on the right-hand side of the page entitled, “Tips for Fighting High Gas Prices,” consumers will be linked to a convenient, comprehensive list of web-based gas-saving tools.
"Everyone is feeling the pinch of rising gas prices, & it hurts,” said Governor Napolitano. “Fortunately, there are steps we can take to make every gas dollar go farther.”
Many of the web tools are interactive. For example, one link takes the user to a AAA site that allows driving vacationers to enter their destination, along with vehicle information, to generate a to-the-penny estimate of what gasoline for the full trip will cost. Other links offer carpool & bus information statewide, as well as locater pages that will show the user where to find the cheapest gas, closest to home.
According to AAA Arizona, as of May 21st, the current statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Arizona is $3.65, an increase of 12 cents from last week. While these prices are low compared with much of the country, the current average price is 56 cents more than in May of last year.
"As we enter the summer-driving season with the start of the Memorial Day weekend, my goal is to provide Arizonans with real-time information that can help ease concerns & lead to a less-stressful travel experience,” said the Governor.
"Everyone is feeling the pinch of rising gas prices, & it hurts,” said Governor Napolitano. “Fortunately, there are steps we can take to make every gas dollar go farther.”
Many of the web tools are interactive. For example, one link takes the user to a AAA site that allows driving vacationers to enter their destination, along with vehicle information, to generate a to-the-penny estimate of what gasoline for the full trip will cost. Other links offer carpool & bus information statewide, as well as locater pages that will show the user where to find the cheapest gas, closest to home.
According to AAA Arizona, as of May 21st, the current statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in Arizona is $3.65, an increase of 12 cents from last week. While these prices are low compared with much of the country, the current average price is 56 cents more than in May of last year.
"As we enter the summer-driving season with the start of the Memorial Day weekend, my goal is to provide Arizonans with real-time information that can help ease concerns & lead to a less-stressful travel experience,” said the Governor.
June Activities At Red Rock State Park
The Red Rock State Park is offering a variety of environmental programs including moonlight & sunset hikes in June.
On Sunday, June 1st, at 2 pm in the park theatre, Richard & Sherry Mangum will present "Route 66 Across Arizona." Route 66 is an important part of the heritage of the nation & of Arizona. In the words of the song, "Route 66," "Get Your Kicks on Route 66: It winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2,000 miles all the way..." This presentation takes the viewer on a nostalgic trip through Arizona by examining the history of "The Mother Road" & discussing the profound impact Route 66 has had on the nation & Arizona. This program is presented by the Arizona Humanities Council & the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. For reservations, please call (928) 282-6907.
The Moonlight Hike continues on Tuesday, June 17th. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset & moonrise from an overlook & return by the light of the moon. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 7 pm. No late arrivals may join after the hike commences. Wear appropriate hiking shoes (no sandals) & bring water, a flashlight & insect spray.
Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday in June, join a volunteer for a Sunset Hike. The hike begins from the Visitor Center at 6 pm.
Every Wednesday & Saturday at 7 am visitors will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.
Daily at 10 am, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1 to 2 hours & will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek & other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history & archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.
Daily at 2 pm (with the exception of June 1st), the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approx. 45-minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.
For more information call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located on the Lower Red Rock Loop Road off Hwy 89A, southwest of Sedona. Park hours are 8 am to 7 pm. Visitor Center hours are 9 am to 6 pm.
The park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians & bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply) & Premium Annual Pass is sold for $125.
The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting & the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants & wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes & programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.
On Sunday, June 1st, at 2 pm in the park theatre, Richard & Sherry Mangum will present "Route 66 Across Arizona." Route 66 is an important part of the heritage of the nation & of Arizona. In the words of the song, "Route 66," "Get Your Kicks on Route 66: It winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2,000 miles all the way..." This presentation takes the viewer on a nostalgic trip through Arizona by examining the history of "The Mother Road" & discussing the profound impact Route 66 has had on the nation & Arizona. This program is presented by the Arizona Humanities Council & the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. For reservations, please call (928) 282-6907.
The Moonlight Hike continues on Tuesday, June 17th. An unforgettable experience, the hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive presentation along the park's beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset & moonrise from an overlook & return by the light of the moon. The hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 7 pm. No late arrivals may join after the hike commences. Wear appropriate hiking shoes (no sandals) & bring water, a flashlight & insect spray.
Every Monday, Wednesday, & Friday in June, join a volunteer for a Sunset Hike. The hike begins from the Visitor Center at 6 pm.
Every Wednesday & Saturday at 7 am visitors will find bird enthusiasts joining a naturalist for a "Guided Bird Walk." Beginners as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend visitors bring their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan from the park.
Daily at 10 am, visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk that lasts 1 to 2 hours & will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek & other aspects of the park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history & archaeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.
Daily at 2 pm (with the exception of June 1st), the park hosts a ranger-or naturalist-led activity of approx. 45-minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.
For more information call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located on the Lower Red Rock Loop Road off Hwy 89A, southwest of Sedona. Park hours are 8 am to 7 pm. Visitor Center hours are 9 am to 6 pm.
The park entrance fee is $6 per vehicle for up to 4 adults, each additional adult is charged $2 each. (There is no charge for children). A $2 per person entrance fee applies to pedestrians, equestrians & bicyclists. Arizona State Parks Annual Pass is available for $50 (some restrictions apply) & Premium Annual Pass is sold for $125.
The unique land-based ecosystem, closely associated with Oak Creek, provides the setting & the opportunity for Red Rock State Park to offer a center for environmental education. With its diverse riparian habitat for plants & wildlife, Red Rock State Park offers special hikes & programs as a regular part of the park's environmental program.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Globe High School Graduation Now At The Apache Gold Pavilion
Due to the recent rain hitting the area and the forecast for this evening, the Globe High School graduation ceremony will be moved from Harbison Field to the Apache Gold Casino Pavilion starting at 7:30 pm. The Globe Unified School District wanted to allow the greatest amount of attendance and the use of Globe High Gym would have required limited access for the expected 1,500 attendees for this evening. The San Carlos Tribe graciously offered the use of the pavilion at no cost to the Globe School District and it is with the greatest thanks and appreciation that the GUSD accepted this wonderful opportunity for Globe High's first graduation ceremony at their sister community's ideal location.
Join them tonight for this celebration of academic achievement tonight at 7:30 pm at the San Carlos Apache Gold Casino Pavilion.
Join them tonight for this celebration of academic achievement tonight at 7:30 pm at the San Carlos Apache Gold Casino Pavilion.
Gila County Democratic Party Holding Special Minority Caucus Meeting
The Gila County Democratic Party is holding a Special Minority Caucus Meeting for African-American & Hispanic residents in the Globe-Miami area on May 24th. The meeting will take place at the Gila County Democratic Party headquarters at 120 N. Broad St. in downtown Globe, from 2 pm - 4 pm. If you are planning on attending & would like more information, call Gail Overgaard at (928) 701-2092. Light refreshments will be served.
Florence Community Pool Is The Sight For The Teen Summer Kick Off Party
The Town of Florence is sponsoring an end of the school year celebration for Middle School through High School kids ages 12 through 18 at the Florence Community Pool. Be there Thursday, May 29th from 1 pm to 4 pm for swimming, music, dancing, refreshments & free admission. Prizes will also be raffled off throughout this event.
DVDs For Vets
DVDS4Vets is seeking donations of any new or used DVDs for the benefit of military veterans who otherwise cannot easily obtain them on their own.
Started in 2006, DVDs4Vets has been helping to arrange for the donation of DVDs for soldiers returning with Traumatic Brain Injuries or TBI as well as other serious battle wounds with limited resources of entertainment, many vets in rehab can use what many of us take for granted every day.
DVDs4Vets does not solicit or receive financial assistance nor are they politically affiliated. Their primary goal is to show gratitude to those men & woman who have proudly served our Country with honor.
For donations of 10 or more DVDs, all donors will be included on the DVDs4Vets Honor Roll. To donate new or used DVDs or to learn more about this worthy cause, please visit: dvds4vets.org.
Started in 2006, DVDs4Vets has been helping to arrange for the donation of DVDs for soldiers returning with Traumatic Brain Injuries or TBI as well as other serious battle wounds with limited resources of entertainment, many vets in rehab can use what many of us take for granted every day.
DVDs4Vets does not solicit or receive financial assistance nor are they politically affiliated. Their primary goal is to show gratitude to those men & woman who have proudly served our Country with honor.
For donations of 10 or more DVDs, all donors will be included on the DVDs4Vets Honor Roll. To donate new or used DVDs or to learn more about this worthy cause, please visit: dvds4vets.org.
Arizona Game and Fish Department Now Has The Printed Fall Hunt Regulations
Printed copies of the 2008-09 Arizona Hunting and Trapping Regulations are being shipped to license dealers throughout the state. The regulations & application forms should now be available at a license dealer near you, as well as at any Arizona Game and Fish Department office.
Don’t forget: The deadline to apply for the fall draw for deer, turkey, bighorn sheep & buffalo, as well as juniors-only javelina, is Tuesday, June 10th, by 7 pm (MST) - postmarks do not count. There is no online application process available for the fall hunts - it is a manual paper-permit process again.
Take advantage of the “correction period” by submitting your application by May 29th. If your application has been received by the department by that date (postmarks don’t count), & you’ve made a mistake on your hunt-permit application, the Game and Fish Department will attempt to call you 3 times in a 24-hour period & give you the opportunity to correct the mistake. After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.
Don’t forget: The deadline to apply for the fall draw for deer, turkey, bighorn sheep & buffalo, as well as juniors-only javelina, is Tuesday, June 10th, by 7 pm (MST) - postmarks do not count. There is no online application process available for the fall hunts - it is a manual paper-permit process again.
Take advantage of the “correction period” by submitting your application by May 29th. If your application has been received by the department by that date (postmarks don’t count), & you’ve made a mistake on your hunt-permit application, the Game and Fish Department will attempt to call you 3 times in a 24-hour period & give you the opportunity to correct the mistake. After that date, mistakes can cause your application to be rejected.
No Road Construction Closures This Weekend
To help ease travel around Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend, ADOT says no construction closures are scheduled on state highways over the holiday, the traditional start to the summer travel season.
In addition, landslide repair work has been completed on State Route 87 (Duthie-Martin Highway), the primary route between the Phoenix area & Payson. ADOT crews this week have fully opened a 4-lane section of SR 87 north of Sunflower which was limited to 1 lane in each direction for several weeks following the March landslide.
ADOT Director Victor Mendez says transportation & law enforcement agencies across the state encourage motorists to slow down & stay alert.
"Drivers create safer conditions & save fuel when they obey the speed limit. Slowing down is the smart & safe thing to do," Mendez said. "As motorists hit the roads this weekend, we hope they view their drive as part of the stress-free start to the summer vacation season."
ADOT, the state Department of Public Safety & the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety are urging holiday travelers to be prepared before heading out on the road this summer.
"We still need drivers to expect the unexpected," Mendez said. "Unscheduled highway closures can & do happen. Make sure your vehicle is ready & pack some extra supplies, like drinking water, just in case something unexpected happens."
Last year, 7 people were killed in 7 fatal crashes in Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend. At least 2 of those fatal crashes were alcohol related.
Here are some safe driving tips for the Memorial Day weekend:
· Make sure you & your passengers are buckled in.
· Check your vehicle before you go; proper tire pressure is important.
· Be patient (Don’t speed & don’t follow other vehicles too closely).
· Get an adequate amount of sleep before a trip.
· Bring extra water & food.
· Build some extra travel time into your schedule.
· NEVER drink & drive.
In addition, landslide repair work has been completed on State Route 87 (Duthie-Martin Highway), the primary route between the Phoenix area & Payson. ADOT crews this week have fully opened a 4-lane section of SR 87 north of Sunflower which was limited to 1 lane in each direction for several weeks following the March landslide.
ADOT Director Victor Mendez says transportation & law enforcement agencies across the state encourage motorists to slow down & stay alert.
"Drivers create safer conditions & save fuel when they obey the speed limit. Slowing down is the smart & safe thing to do," Mendez said. "As motorists hit the roads this weekend, we hope they view their drive as part of the stress-free start to the summer vacation season."
ADOT, the state Department of Public Safety & the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety are urging holiday travelers to be prepared before heading out on the road this summer.
"We still need drivers to expect the unexpected," Mendez said. "Unscheduled highway closures can & do happen. Make sure your vehicle is ready & pack some extra supplies, like drinking water, just in case something unexpected happens."
Last year, 7 people were killed in 7 fatal crashes in Arizona over the Memorial Day weekend. At least 2 of those fatal crashes were alcohol related.
Here are some safe driving tips for the Memorial Day weekend:
· Make sure you & your passengers are buckled in.
· Check your vehicle before you go; proper tire pressure is important.
· Be patient (Don’t speed & don’t follow other vehicles too closely).
· Get an adequate amount of sleep before a trip.
· Bring extra water & food.
· Build some extra travel time into your schedule.
· NEVER drink & drive.
Cartoon Network’s Get Animated Tour Is Coming To Mesa
The Cartoon Network’s Get Animated Tour, which allows kids to get active, get healthy & get involved with the world’s best cartoons, will come to Mesa’s Red Mountain Multigenerational Center at 7550 East Adobe, on Saturday May 31st.
The event is part of the City of Mesa’s on going Fit City Program, which is a 12-month fitness challenge designed to educate & motivate Mesa residents to become more physically active & create a healthy lifestyle.
This national Get Animated tour stop at Red Mountain will include:
· Ben 10 Bike Challenge, 2 players pedal stationary bikes as hard as they can to beat the countdown clock & each other.
· Foster's Soccer Challenge, kids dribble up a short field, or play “beat the goalie” – with a weeble-wobble goalie who is always up to the task!
· Chowder Bowl, kids will help feed the loveable chowder, one of the Cartoon Network’s most popular characters, by rolling magical bowling balls down the tongue & into the fantasy fruit & vegetable pins.
· FDA Spot the Block, kids can test their test puzzle-solving skills on a life size nutrition label puzzle & learn about nutrition charts on food packaging.
· Camp Lazlo’s Tennis Court features racquets for all size hands, and a special slow-bounce ball so everybody can enjoy the game of tennis.
· “My Gym Partner is a Monkey” Obstacle Course, with its inflatable obstacles, climbing vines & other fun features.
The stations include colorful Cartoon Network branded backdrops & safety mats emblazoned with graphics that feature scenes & characters kids will recognize from their favorite network shows.
Fit City will also offer a Stroller Stride, which will begin at 8:30 am, a Zumba class from 9 am to 10 am, a Fun Family Circuit from 10 am to 11 am, & an open gym from 11 am to Noon. The rock-climbing wall will also be open to Fit City participants from 10 to Noon.
The Cartoon Network activities start at 8 am & are FREE, but anyone wishing to participate in the Fit City events must be registered for the Fit City Program. New participants can register at the event for $5 a person or $20 per family & the fee will include T-shirts & will be good for the remaining Fit City events.
The event is part of the City of Mesa’s on going Fit City Program, which is a 12-month fitness challenge designed to educate & motivate Mesa residents to become more physically active & create a healthy lifestyle.
This national Get Animated tour stop at Red Mountain will include:
· Ben 10 Bike Challenge, 2 players pedal stationary bikes as hard as they can to beat the countdown clock & each other.
· Foster's Soccer Challenge, kids dribble up a short field, or play “beat the goalie” – with a weeble-wobble goalie who is always up to the task!
· Chowder Bowl, kids will help feed the loveable chowder, one of the Cartoon Network’s most popular characters, by rolling magical bowling balls down the tongue & into the fantasy fruit & vegetable pins.
· FDA Spot the Block, kids can test their test puzzle-solving skills on a life size nutrition label puzzle & learn about nutrition charts on food packaging.
· Camp Lazlo’s Tennis Court features racquets for all size hands, and a special slow-bounce ball so everybody can enjoy the game of tennis.
· “My Gym Partner is a Monkey” Obstacle Course, with its inflatable obstacles, climbing vines & other fun features.
The stations include colorful Cartoon Network branded backdrops & safety mats emblazoned with graphics that feature scenes & characters kids will recognize from their favorite network shows.
Fit City will also offer a Stroller Stride, which will begin at 8:30 am, a Zumba class from 9 am to 10 am, a Fun Family Circuit from 10 am to 11 am, & an open gym from 11 am to Noon. The rock-climbing wall will also be open to Fit City participants from 10 to Noon.
The Cartoon Network activities start at 8 am & are FREE, but anyone wishing to participate in the Fit City events must be registered for the Fit City Program. New participants can register at the event for $5 a person or $20 per family & the fee will include T-shirts & will be good for the remaining Fit City events.
$350,000 Pulled From Health Crisis Fund To Aid Measles Treatment
Governor Janet Napolitano has released an additional $350,000 from the State Health Crisis Fund to bolster the state's response to a measles outbreak in two Arizona counties.
Last month, the Governor allocated $50,000 to combat the outbreak that has sickened 22 people - 21 in Pima County & one in Pinal County.
"Local and state health officials, health care workers, first responders, & others are putting in a lot of long hours to protect our communities," Governor Napolitano said. "We must make sure they have all the resources necessary to fight this disease.”
The newest Executive Order - which allocates $350,000 - will pay for administering 10,000 vaccines to residents, & for additional lab supplies to ensure prompt measles testing at the Arizona State Health Laboratory. The funds will also pay for testing on nights & weekends.
The Arizona Department of Health Services is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, local health departments & physicians to help track suspected measles cases & to ensure those who come in contact with potentially infected individuals are fully vaccinated. To date, 6,000 potentially exposed individuals have required monitoring in Pima County. Before the current outbreak, Arizona 's last measles case was in 2005.
The latest measles outbreak shows the importance of ensuring everyone is protected against measles & other preventable diseases. Vaccination provides the best protection. The MMR vaccine may be able to prevent measles if the shot is given within 3 days of exposure to the disease. Already, more than 3,000 people have sought a free MMR vaccination through walk-in clinics. For information about clinic hours in Pima County, call (520) 243-7797. In Pinal County, call the Pinal County Citizen Contact Center at (520) 509-3555 or toll-free at 888-431-1311, or visit for clinic locations.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air. It is particularly dangerous for infants, those who have compromised immune systems, & those who have never been vaccinated. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes & a rash.
If you believe you may have the measles, it is important to call your health provider & local health department first, before you proceed to a health care facility. That way, your provider can prepare & help prevent further spread of the infection. For more information, call the state's public health hotline at 1-800-314-9243.
Information about measles is also available from the measles section from the Arizona Department of Health Services at, & from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Last month, the Governor allocated $50,000 to combat the outbreak that has sickened 22 people - 21 in Pima County & one in Pinal County.
"Local and state health officials, health care workers, first responders, & others are putting in a lot of long hours to protect our communities," Governor Napolitano said. "We must make sure they have all the resources necessary to fight this disease.”
The newest Executive Order - which allocates $350,000 - will pay for administering 10,000 vaccines to residents, & for additional lab supplies to ensure prompt measles testing at the Arizona State Health Laboratory. The funds will also pay for testing on nights & weekends.
The Arizona Department of Health Services is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, local health departments & physicians to help track suspected measles cases & to ensure those who come in contact with potentially infected individuals are fully vaccinated. To date, 6,000 potentially exposed individuals have required monitoring in Pima County. Before the current outbreak, Arizona 's last measles case was in 2005.
The latest measles outbreak shows the importance of ensuring everyone is protected against measles & other preventable diseases. Vaccination provides the best protection. The MMR vaccine may be able to prevent measles if the shot is given within 3 days of exposure to the disease. Already, more than 3,000 people have sought a free MMR vaccination through walk-in clinics. For information about clinic hours in Pima County, call (520) 243-7797. In Pinal County, call the Pinal County Citizen Contact Center at (520) 509-3555 or toll-free at 888-431-1311, or visit for clinic locations.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads easily through the air. It is particularly dangerous for infants, those who have compromised immune systems, & those who have never been vaccinated. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes & a rash.
If you believe you may have the measles, it is important to call your health provider & local health department first, before you proceed to a health care facility. That way, your provider can prepare & help prevent further spread of the infection. For more information, call the state's public health hotline at 1-800-314-9243.
Information about measles is also available from the measles section from the Arizona Department of Health Services at, & from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Mike Pastor Discusses Issues At Recent Democratic Women Meeting
Mike Pastor, Democratic Candidate for the Office of Gila County Supervisor, District 2, spoke about his candidacy at the regular monthly meeting of Democratic Women at Joe’s Broadstreet Grill. Candidate Pastor pledges to serve his district & all of Gila County each day of his term by being available for constituents to have the opportunity to meet with him on a regular basis in his office or at community meetings.
Pastor addressed County issues including: Specific concerns in his District, such as flood control, the Tonto Bridge & sewer development. Budget management which includes consideration for the looming $1 billion plus State budget shortfall. Partnerships between the Towns & Cities & Gila County to support economic development & infrastructure development & improvement. Continuation of our efforts to make the State Legislature aware of rural county needs. Support for the Gila Community College which translates directly into economic help to the people of our County as an educated population is an economically viable population.
The next meeting of the Democratic Women will feature candidates for Gila County Sheriff. All meetings are open to the public & are held in the dining room of Joe’s Broadstreet Grill on the second Wednesday of each month at Noon.
Pastor addressed County issues including: Specific concerns in his District, such as flood control, the Tonto Bridge & sewer development. Budget management which includes consideration for the looming $1 billion plus State budget shortfall. Partnerships between the Towns & Cities & Gila County to support economic development & infrastructure development & improvement. Continuation of our efforts to make the State Legislature aware of rural county needs. Support for the Gila Community College which translates directly into economic help to the people of our County as an educated population is an economically viable population.
The next meeting of the Democratic Women will feature candidates for Gila County Sheriff. All meetings are open to the public & are held in the dining room of Joe’s Broadstreet Grill on the second Wednesday of each month at Noon.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Glendale-Peoria Community Wide Memorial Day Service
The Resthaven Park Cemetery & Sandy Coor Post 1433, Veterans of Foreign Wars are hosting a consolidated memorial service on May 26th, at 9 am in The Garden of Remembrance (western section) of the Resthaven Park Cemetery. Resthaven is located at 63rd Ave & Northern (6290 West Northern Avenue).
The service is to honor all military personnel who have bravely served our country. The Memorial Day Service, open to the entire community, will include speakers, color guards, rifle team, singer, Military chaplains, bagpipe music, & Taps.
Immediately following the cemetery service, Sandy Coor Post 1433, VFW at 7618 N. 63rd Ave. is hosting an open house to include a snack buffet.
The service is to honor all military personnel who have bravely served our country. The Memorial Day Service, open to the entire community, will include speakers, color guards, rifle team, singer, Military chaplains, bagpipe music, & Taps.
Immediately following the cemetery service, Sandy Coor Post 1433, VFW at 7618 N. 63rd Ave. is hosting an open house to include a snack buffet.
Ore Cart Trail Table Top Models On Display
Table top models of the possible ore carts available to be displayed in the local area as part of the Ore Cart Trail are on display now at the Gila County Historical Museum. The scale models show artist renditions of ore carts. The public is invited to stop in and vote on their favorites. Eventually, ore cart art is expected to be displayed in the local area as part of the Ore Cart Trail, the area from San Manuel north, highlighting our mining heritage.
Stop in at the museum from 10 am to 4 pm weekdays or 11 am to 3 on Saturdays and pick your favorites. From whimsical to colorful to straight business, the art display will get you thinking. The displays will be at the museum until mid-June.
Stop in at the museum from 10 am to 4 pm weekdays or 11 am to 3 on Saturdays and pick your favorites. From whimsical to colorful to straight business, the art display will get you thinking. The displays will be at the museum until mid-June.
Arizona State Parks Announces 1300 Campsites For Memorial Day Weekend
The 27 State Parks in Arizona provide many opportunities for Memorial Day campers. State Parks such as Lyman Lake near Springerville, Roper Lake in Safford & Alamo Lake State Park will probably be campgrounds that will not fill to capacity. Day use & historic parks have plenty of room for daytrippers & Kartchner Caverns State Park always has 100 walk-up tickets each day & good camping opportunities (book cave tours in advance by phone or online if possible.
There are some fire restrictions around the State so if you are planning to build a campfire in a park, be sure to check them out before you go. Remember if you cause a fire under fire restrictions it may result in substantial fines & jail time.
To keep your family & public lands safe while camping, please follow these precautionary tips:
* Bring a propane stove for cooking/heating rather than using a campfire.
* Carry a shovel in your car & use dirt and FIVE gallons of water for putting out campfires if they are permitted. Make SMALL campfires.
* Only smoke in vehicles or designed campsite & not while hiking.
Memorial Day weekend is one of the most popular weekends to travel in Arizona, but campers are encouraged to use only propane stoves & heaters this summer while they are camping to prevent wildfires from escaped campfires. Remember in Arizona, especially during this drought, fire can burn slowing along dry roots & duff & come from underground in the forest far from a campsite.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Northern Arizona - Call ahead...
Dead Horse Ranch State Park: - (928) 634-5283 - Cottonwood - 150 campsites - fishing, boating, hiking. No campfires, no smoking while hiking.
Fool Hollow Lake State Park: - (928) 537-3680 - 92 hookup sites, 31 campsites, great fishing & swimming. Fire restrictions during windy days. Call ahead regarding campfires.
Lyman Lake State Park: - (928) 337-4441 - 61 campsites & 4 yurts / 4 cabins, fishing, waterskiing. Campfires in cement fire rings & smoking in vehicles. No smoking while hiking.
Homolovi Ruins State Historic Park: - (928) 289-4106 - 53 camp sites, Hopi Ruins, hiking. Campfires/smoking in developed areas only. No hiking while smoking.
Slide Rock State Park: - (928) 282-3034 - natural rock slide in the river, hiking. No smoking except in vehicles. No fires, including charcoal & gas.
Red Rock State Park: - (928) 282-6907- No camping. Lots of hiking opportunities. No smoking while hiking.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Southern Arizona - Call ahead...
Catalina State Park: (520) 628-5798 - 48 campsites, hiking, corrals for horses. Propane only, no smoking while hiking.
Kartchner Caverns State Park: (520) 586-4100 - 62 campsites - cave tours. Propane only. Smoking in camp area or vehicle, no smoking while hiking.
Lost Dutchman State Park: (480) 982-4485 - 70 campsites, hiking into Superstitions. Charcoal & propane fires only, wood campfires not allowed, no smoking while hiking.
Patagonia Lake State Park: (520) 287-6965 - 107 campsites, boats to rent, fishing, beach. Campfires ok in designated grills, smoking in camp areas only, no smoking while hiking.
Picacho Peak State Park: (520) 466-3183 - 85 campsites - fantastic walking trails. No restrictions at this time, no smoking while hiking.
Roper Lake State Park: (928) 428-6760 - 71 campsites - hot tub, fishing. Campfires & smoking restricted to developed areas only, no hiking & smoking.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Western Arizona - Call Ahead...
Alamo Lake State Park: (928) 669-2088 - 250 campsites, excellent bass fishing, waterskiing, swimming. Campfires & smoking in designed areas only.
Buckskin Mountain State Park & River Island: (928) 667-3231 - 126 campsites, water sports, cabanas, beach. Campfires in designated grills, no smoking while hiking.
Cattail Cove State Park: (928) 855-1223 - 61 campsites. No wood fires, charcoal for cooking within a campsite or on a grill on the beach. Smoking - campsites & beach only.
Lake Havasu State Park: (928) 855-2784 - 47 campsites - boat launches, great park areas & swimming beach. Campfires in fire-rings call for details, smoking in camp areas, no hiking while smoking.
There are some fire restrictions around the State so if you are planning to build a campfire in a park, be sure to check them out before you go. Remember if you cause a fire under fire restrictions it may result in substantial fines & jail time.
To keep your family & public lands safe while camping, please follow these precautionary tips:
* Bring a propane stove for cooking/heating rather than using a campfire.
* Carry a shovel in your car & use dirt and FIVE gallons of water for putting out campfires if they are permitted. Make SMALL campfires.
* Only smoke in vehicles or designed campsite & not while hiking.
Memorial Day weekend is one of the most popular weekends to travel in Arizona, but campers are encouraged to use only propane stoves & heaters this summer while they are camping to prevent wildfires from escaped campfires. Remember in Arizona, especially during this drought, fire can burn slowing along dry roots & duff & come from underground in the forest far from a campsite.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Northern Arizona - Call ahead...
Dead Horse Ranch State Park: - (928) 634-5283 - Cottonwood - 150 campsites - fishing, boating, hiking. No campfires, no smoking while hiking.
Fool Hollow Lake State Park: - (928) 537-3680 - 92 hookup sites, 31 campsites, great fishing & swimming. Fire restrictions during windy days. Call ahead regarding campfires.
Lyman Lake State Park: - (928) 337-4441 - 61 campsites & 4 yurts / 4 cabins, fishing, waterskiing. Campfires in cement fire rings & smoking in vehicles. No smoking while hiking.
Homolovi Ruins State Historic Park: - (928) 289-4106 - 53 camp sites, Hopi Ruins, hiking. Campfires/smoking in developed areas only. No hiking while smoking.
Slide Rock State Park: - (928) 282-3034 - natural rock slide in the river, hiking. No smoking except in vehicles. No fires, including charcoal & gas.
Red Rock State Park: - (928) 282-6907- No camping. Lots of hiking opportunities. No smoking while hiking.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Southern Arizona - Call ahead...
Catalina State Park: (520) 628-5798 - 48 campsites, hiking, corrals for horses. Propane only, no smoking while hiking.
Kartchner Caverns State Park: (520) 586-4100 - 62 campsites - cave tours. Propane only. Smoking in camp area or vehicle, no smoking while hiking.
Lost Dutchman State Park: (480) 982-4485 - 70 campsites, hiking into Superstitions. Charcoal & propane fires only, wood campfires not allowed, no smoking while hiking.
Patagonia Lake State Park: (520) 287-6965 - 107 campsites, boats to rent, fishing, beach. Campfires ok in designated grills, smoking in camp areas only, no smoking while hiking.
Picacho Peak State Park: (520) 466-3183 - 85 campsites - fantastic walking trails. No restrictions at this time, no smoking while hiking.
Roper Lake State Park: (928) 428-6760 - 71 campsites - hot tub, fishing. Campfires & smoking restricted to developed areas only, no hiking & smoking.
STATE PARKS CAMPGROUNDS in Western Arizona - Call Ahead...
Alamo Lake State Park: (928) 669-2088 - 250 campsites, excellent bass fishing, waterskiing, swimming. Campfires & smoking in designed areas only.
Buckskin Mountain State Park & River Island: (928) 667-3231 - 126 campsites, water sports, cabanas, beach. Campfires in designated grills, no smoking while hiking.
Cattail Cove State Park: (928) 855-1223 - 61 campsites. No wood fires, charcoal for cooking within a campsite or on a grill on the beach. Smoking - campsites & beach only.
Lake Havasu State Park: (928) 855-2784 - 47 campsites - boat launches, great park areas & swimming beach. Campfires in fire-rings call for details, smoking in camp areas, no hiking while smoking.
Day On The Lake Event
The "Day On The Lake" is a Barrow Neurological Institute-sponsored event, that gives individuals with neurological impairments the chance to participate in freewater skiing, jet skiing, fishing, kayaking, & boat rides at Bartlett Lake. Registration is limited. Participants* must be at least 8 years old & are responsible for their own food, refreshments, towels, & sun block. If you plan to participate, please bring swimwear, sun protective clothing, sunglasses, & a hat. To secure your participation at Day on the Lake, please call the Therapeutic Recreation Department at (602) 406-3606. The event costs $20 & is on May 30th and 31st, from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.
*participants must be at least 1 year post injury, and be at least 8 years old.
*participants must be at least 1 year post injury, and be at least 8 years old.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
City of Mesa Elects New Mayor
The Unofficial Mayoral results from the Maricopa County Elections Department for Mesa's May 20th, General Election (Runoff) show newcomer Scott Smith had 56% of the vote over Rex Griswold's 44%. In the race for Council District 5, Dina Higgins took 58%, while Phillip A. Austin earned 42% of the votes.
New Fees Approved For Ben Avery Shooting Facility
At the May 16th, Arizona Game and Fish Commission meeting, the department decided on the fee increase proposal for the Ben Avery Shooting Facility. The new rates for users of the Ben Avery Shooting Facility, including the archery range and clay target center, are effective July 1st.
Examples of the new fees: A day at the main shooting range or archery range will cost $7 instead of the current $5. Children 17 years and under are still free. A round of trap or skeet at the completely renovated and modernized Clay Target Center will run a dollar more at $6 compared to the current price of $5. Twenty-five targets at the sporting clays course will bump to $10 from the current rate of $8.
The recommendation came after nearly a month-and-a-half of public input was solicited. The need for the fee increase was due to increasing operational costs. Electricity, waste disposal, fuel and consumables are some of the biggest contributors to the rising costs. The last fee increase was implemented seven years ago on July 1st, 2001.
Also, the Ben Avery Shooting Facility has been operating their summer hours on May 12th. Those hours are: Wednesday & Thursday, 7 am - 1 pm, then 5 pm - 9:30 pm; Friday, 7 am - 1 pm; Saturday, 7 am - 9:30 pm; Sunday, 7 am - 1 pm. The range is closed Monday & Tuesday.
Examples of the new fees: A day at the main shooting range or archery range will cost $7 instead of the current $5. Children 17 years and under are still free. A round of trap or skeet at the completely renovated and modernized Clay Target Center will run a dollar more at $6 compared to the current price of $5. Twenty-five targets at the sporting clays course will bump to $10 from the current rate of $8.
The recommendation came after nearly a month-and-a-half of public input was solicited. The need for the fee increase was due to increasing operational costs. Electricity, waste disposal, fuel and consumables are some of the biggest contributors to the rising costs. The last fee increase was implemented seven years ago on July 1st, 2001.
Also, the Ben Avery Shooting Facility has been operating their summer hours on May 12th. Those hours are: Wednesday & Thursday, 7 am - 1 pm, then 5 pm - 9:30 pm; Friday, 7 am - 1 pm; Saturday, 7 am - 9:30 pm; Sunday, 7 am - 1 pm. The range is closed Monday & Tuesday.
Cooperation To Aid Returning Veterans Called Upon By Governor Napolitano
Governor Janet Napolitano issued a call to action today for Arizona organizations to cooperate in support of veterans returning from Iraq & Afghanistan at a roundtable designed to facilitate networking between military organizations & faith-based & community groups. Dubbed Arizona Operation Family Support, today’s meeting was the first of its kind in the country, bringing together federal, state & local groups to discuss ways to work together & help returning veterans & their families.
"We're doing this because there is a higher obligation to take care of these young men & women & their families after they've sacrificed so much for us,” Governor Napolitano said. “We want to put our appreciation into action & make sure returning veterans & their families receive all the care & resources they deserve.”
The Governor encouraged groups across the state to coordinate together & develop local community networks to prevent any veteran or veteran’s family from falling through the cracks. Today’s roundtable provided a forum for military leaders, faith-based organizations, & community groups to share strategies to reach out to veterans & their families, & to begin forming those local networks. There are resources available to returning veterans & their families available through numerous groups across Arizona. A list of these resources is available on the Governor’s web site.
Today's roundtable is the most recent action Arizona has taken to help returning veterans & their families. Arizona established the Military Family Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to family members of military personnel killed or wounded in the line of duty, & who were deployed from a military base in Arizona or were members of the Arizona Army or Air National Guard. The state now offers tuition waivers for the children & spouses of military members who are residents of Arizona or stationed in Arizona & are killed in the line of duty. By the end of the year, there will be a veterans’ benefits counselor - an expert trained to help veterans access the benefits to which they are entitled - within an hour’s drive of virtually every Arizona veteran. The state income tax exemption for the military income of service members on active duty is now permanent, & the Governor signed legislation this year to protect members of the military from losing professional licenses while on active duty.
"We're doing this because there is a higher obligation to take care of these young men & women & their families after they've sacrificed so much for us,” Governor Napolitano said. “We want to put our appreciation into action & make sure returning veterans & their families receive all the care & resources they deserve.”
The Governor encouraged groups across the state to coordinate together & develop local community networks to prevent any veteran or veteran’s family from falling through the cracks. Today’s roundtable provided a forum for military leaders, faith-based organizations, & community groups to share strategies to reach out to veterans & their families, & to begin forming those local networks. There are resources available to returning veterans & their families available through numerous groups across Arizona. A list of these resources is available on the Governor’s web site.
Today's roundtable is the most recent action Arizona has taken to help returning veterans & their families. Arizona established the Military Family Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to family members of military personnel killed or wounded in the line of duty, & who were deployed from a military base in Arizona or were members of the Arizona Army or Air National Guard. The state now offers tuition waivers for the children & spouses of military members who are residents of Arizona or stationed in Arizona & are killed in the line of duty. By the end of the year, there will be a veterans’ benefits counselor - an expert trained to help veterans access the benefits to which they are entitled - within an hour’s drive of virtually every Arizona veteran. The state income tax exemption for the military income of service members on active duty is now permanent, & the Governor signed legislation this year to protect members of the military from losing professional licenses while on active duty.
“Catch The Reading Bug”
The Maricopa County Library District invites the everyone to “Catch the Reading Bug”. The libraries are offering Summer Reading Program's for all ages from May 27th through July 27th.
"Narcotic Task Force" Scam Alert
On May 20th, a citizen from the Globe-Miami area received a phone call from an unidentified female who was reaquesting a donation to the "Narcotic Task Force." The citizen who received the phone call did not give any information to this person & she ended the call.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to remind everyone not to give personal information, such as your Bank Account, Birth Dates, or your Social Security number to anyone over the phone. If this has happened to you, please report it to your local law enforcement.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office nor the Gila County Narcotic Task Force solicit money from citizens.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to remind everyone not to give personal information, such as your Bank Account, Birth Dates, or your Social Security number to anyone over the phone. If this has happened to you, please report it to your local law enforcement.
The Gila County Sheriff's Office nor the Gila County Narcotic Task Force solicit money from citizens.
ADOT Finishes Statewide Rural Transit Needs Study
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) Multimodal Planning Division, in partnership with the Arizona Transit Association, recently completed the first comprehensive study of rural transit needs in Arizona.
Local transit needs are growing rapidly in rural Arizona where existing funding may not be available. The study reviewed existing transit planning efforts in rural communities statewide, & integrated them into a comprehensive statewide plan.
The study also coordinated regional & state planning efforts in order to define needed intercity transit services. The rapid population growth in cities adjacent to major urbanized areas in Arizona is leading to a need for additional intercity transit services. As an example, many of the residents in rural Maricopa County (i.e., Gila Bend, Queen Creek) & Pinal County (i.e., Casa Grande, Eloy, Florence) rely on the Phoenix metropolitan area for employment, medical services, shopping, education & recreation. Additionally, the study addressed the characteristics of rural transit services that are needed in tribal areas, as well as the need for additional funding.
The study included 3 phases:
* Phase I: Existing Conditions & Future Forecasts - Phase I identified mobility gaps in rural Arizona where public transportation is an option. The analysis included current public transportation operations, demographics, travel patterns, trends in service provision, & available funding.
* Phase II: Transit Demand & Need Estimates - Phase II determined current estimates & future projections of demand & need for rural transit service in Arizona, incorporating the status of available funding & input received during the study’s stakeholder meetings.
* Phase III: Alternatives Evaluation & Strategic Plan - Phase III provided specific recommendations on how existing rural transit services can be improved & where new rural transit services will be most beneficial. The recommendations also include a schedule for implementation tied to a long-term strategic direction.
“This is the first effort to project long range transit demand in rural portions of the state. The study provides balanced, objective findings & recommendations that will be of tremendous value for planning & implementing rural public transportation solutions for the state,” said Matt Carpenter, of ADOT’s Multimodal Planning Division.
“As an organization that represents over 375 member organizations, including 250 from rural Arizona, AzTA understands the significant issues facing our rural areas as they struggle to meet rapidly-growing needs for public transportation,” said Paul Miller, President of the Arizona Transit Association. “We are hopeful that this study will be an important step in developing meaningful strategies to meet those needs.”
The study has multiple uses, including facilitating the relationship between public transportation planning & long-range transportation planning requirements mandated by state law. It will be used as a companion document for the next update of the State’s Long-Range Transportation Plan, which will occur in 2009.
Local transit needs are growing rapidly in rural Arizona where existing funding may not be available. The study reviewed existing transit planning efforts in rural communities statewide, & integrated them into a comprehensive statewide plan.
The study also coordinated regional & state planning efforts in order to define needed intercity transit services. The rapid population growth in cities adjacent to major urbanized areas in Arizona is leading to a need for additional intercity transit services. As an example, many of the residents in rural Maricopa County (i.e., Gila Bend, Queen Creek) & Pinal County (i.e., Casa Grande, Eloy, Florence) rely on the Phoenix metropolitan area for employment, medical services, shopping, education & recreation. Additionally, the study addressed the characteristics of rural transit services that are needed in tribal areas, as well as the need for additional funding.
The study included 3 phases:
* Phase I: Existing Conditions & Future Forecasts - Phase I identified mobility gaps in rural Arizona where public transportation is an option. The analysis included current public transportation operations, demographics, travel patterns, trends in service provision, & available funding.
* Phase II: Transit Demand & Need Estimates - Phase II determined current estimates & future projections of demand & need for rural transit service in Arizona, incorporating the status of available funding & input received during the study’s stakeholder meetings.
* Phase III: Alternatives Evaluation & Strategic Plan - Phase III provided specific recommendations on how existing rural transit services can be improved & where new rural transit services will be most beneficial. The recommendations also include a schedule for implementation tied to a long-term strategic direction.
“This is the first effort to project long range transit demand in rural portions of the state. The study provides balanced, objective findings & recommendations that will be of tremendous value for planning & implementing rural public transportation solutions for the state,” said Matt Carpenter, of ADOT’s Multimodal Planning Division.
“As an organization that represents over 375 member organizations, including 250 from rural Arizona, AzTA understands the significant issues facing our rural areas as they struggle to meet rapidly-growing needs for public transportation,” said Paul Miller, President of the Arizona Transit Association. “We are hopeful that this study will be an important step in developing meaningful strategies to meet those needs.”
The study has multiple uses, including facilitating the relationship between public transportation planning & long-range transportation planning requirements mandated by state law. It will be used as a companion document for the next update of the State’s Long-Range Transportation Plan, which will occur in 2009.
Monthly Chamber Mixer
This month, the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce Monthly Mixer is being held at the Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce. The Mixer will start at 5 pm and last until 7 pm on May 29th.
Monday, May 19, 2008
AAA Warns Of The Hidden Danger In Our Driveway During The Hotter Months
As residents across the valley experience high temperatures and the first heat advisory of the year issued by the National Weather Service today, they are also faced with the danger that heat brings to their motor vehicles. It may seem unthinkable for a child to be locked inside a vehicle, especially during Arizona’s brutal summer months; however last year, AAA Arizona responded to more than 288 calls to unlock cars with children inside
“The higher temperatures get, the more dangerous these incidents become,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Manager Linda Gorman. “During the summer months, it only takes a matter of minutes for the temperature inside a vehicle to reach over 160 degrees Fahrenheit given our desert climate.”
The average number of these types of calls that the auto club receives each year only account for a small percent of the total “lockout” calls AAA received in 2007. However, this still means AAA’s roadside assistance rescues an average of 24 children locked in vehicles each month. It is also important to point out that the actual number is much higher as these figures do not include pets or motorists who call the police or fire departments to assist with “lockout” situations.
“Every summer, we hear the tragic stories of children & pets left in vehicles,” said Gorman. “Often times, the results are fatal. This is why it is especially important to never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle, even for a minute.”
To avert this type of tragedy, AAA Arizona would like to offer the following tips to Arizona motorists:
· Never leave your vehicle running with children or pets in the car. Many vehicles have automatic locking systems for security reasons, which means if you leave your car running & shut the door, your vehicle may automatically lock you out.
· Be alert when you walk past cars in parking lots or alongside the street. Listen for noise & look for movement. If you spot a child or pet inside a locked vehicle, call 911 & follow their instructions.
· Always lock your vehicle & keep your keys out of sight so your children cannot get to them.
· Warn your children about the dangers of playing in or around vehicles.
· Always get your children & pets out of the car first & then worry about getting shopping bags, groceries, etc.
· Teach your child never to play in the trunk. Keep the rear fold-down seats closed to help prevent kids from getting into the trunk from inside the car.
· Make sure child & pet care providers or anyone who transports your children or pets understand that children & pets should never be left alone inside a vehicle.
“The higher temperatures get, the more dangerous these incidents become,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Manager Linda Gorman. “During the summer months, it only takes a matter of minutes for the temperature inside a vehicle to reach over 160 degrees Fahrenheit given our desert climate.”
The average number of these types of calls that the auto club receives each year only account for a small percent of the total “lockout” calls AAA received in 2007. However, this still means AAA’s roadside assistance rescues an average of 24 children locked in vehicles each month. It is also important to point out that the actual number is much higher as these figures do not include pets or motorists who call the police or fire departments to assist with “lockout” situations.
“Every summer, we hear the tragic stories of children & pets left in vehicles,” said Gorman. “Often times, the results are fatal. This is why it is especially important to never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle, even for a minute.”
To avert this type of tragedy, AAA Arizona would like to offer the following tips to Arizona motorists:
· Never leave your vehicle running with children or pets in the car. Many vehicles have automatic locking systems for security reasons, which means if you leave your car running & shut the door, your vehicle may automatically lock you out.
· Be alert when you walk past cars in parking lots or alongside the street. Listen for noise & look for movement. If you spot a child or pet inside a locked vehicle, call 911 & follow their instructions.
· Always lock your vehicle & keep your keys out of sight so your children cannot get to them.
· Warn your children about the dangers of playing in or around vehicles.
· Always get your children & pets out of the car first & then worry about getting shopping bags, groceries, etc.
· Teach your child never to play in the trunk. Keep the rear fold-down seats closed to help prevent kids from getting into the trunk from inside the car.
· Make sure child & pet care providers or anyone who transports your children or pets understand that children & pets should never be left alone inside a vehicle.
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