Catalytic Converters are being stolen from vehicles in Mesa at an alarming rate. It takes less than two minutes for a thief to steal one of these parts. It is very important for you to take extra precautions to prevention theft of this part. Please report any suspicious activity or persons under or around vehicles immediately by calling the Mesa Police Dept. at (480) 644-2211.
Some prevention tips:
1. Park in areas with plenty of light and can easily be seen.
2. Park vehicles in garages whenever possible.
3. Back additional vehicles up to garage doors.
4. Park so that someone cannot crawl under the back of your vehicle, especially pickups & SUVs.
5. Consider having your Converter etched with your vehicle identification number (VIN) or driver's license number.
6. Talk to your mechanic about installing a preventative theft device (cage, etc.) for your Converter.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
No Food Truck Delivery
The produce truck for the Gila Community Food Bank will not be in on August 21st.
Plane Crash Near Springerville Kills Two
Two people are confirmed dead from the crash of a single engine, Piper Cherokee last night shortly after its departure from the Springerville Municipal Airport. The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash.
Gila River PD To Aid Pinal County Narcotics Task Force
Two investigators from the Gila River Police Department have been temporarily assigned to the Pinal County Narcotics Task Force.
The investigators, who work out of the Task Force office at the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Florence, will focus primarily on individuals and/or organizations involved in illegal drug activity with a reservation connection.
According to PCNTF officials, many of the criminals within the county will commit the same crimes on the reservations that they are committing in the rest of the county. The criminals do not recognize or are not concerned about any jurisdictional boundaries.
“Having these investigators allows us to share intelligence, coordinate in identifying such individuals and/or organizations and use each agency’s resources to effect a combined effort to dismantle these criminal organizations,” the PCNTF sergeant explained.
The initial assignment of the Gila River Police Department is for a 30-day period, but may extend beyond that timeframe if needed for the investigations.
The investigators, who work out of the Task Force office at the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office headquarters in Florence, will focus primarily on individuals and/or organizations involved in illegal drug activity with a reservation connection.
According to PCNTF officials, many of the criminals within the county will commit the same crimes on the reservations that they are committing in the rest of the county. The criminals do not recognize or are not concerned about any jurisdictional boundaries.
“Having these investigators allows us to share intelligence, coordinate in identifying such individuals and/or organizations and use each agency’s resources to effect a combined effort to dismantle these criminal organizations,” the PCNTF sergeant explained.
The initial assignment of the Gila River Police Department is for a 30-day period, but may extend beyond that timeframe if needed for the investigations.
Jim Garrison To Speak At Florence Historic District Advisory Commission Meeting
Arizona State Historic Preservation Officer, Jim Garrison, will be the guest speaker at the Historic District Advisory Commission meeting on August 27th.
Mr. Garrison will conduct a workshop for the commissioners & the public on historic preservation & the rehabilitation process for historic buildings. His presentation will incorporate the standards identified by the United States Department of the Interior.
The Historic District Advisory Commission meeting is at 6 pm in the Florence Town Council Chambers, located at 775 North Main Street. Everyone is invited to attend to learn more about the Historic Preservation process. Contact Gilbert Olgin, Planner, at the Town of Florence at 868-7542 with questions about the meeting.
Mr. Garrison will conduct a workshop for the commissioners & the public on historic preservation & the rehabilitation process for historic buildings. His presentation will incorporate the standards identified by the United States Department of the Interior.
The Historic District Advisory Commission meeting is at 6 pm in the Florence Town Council Chambers, located at 775 North Main Street. Everyone is invited to attend to learn more about the Historic Preservation process. Contact Gilbert Olgin, Planner, at the Town of Florence at 868-7542 with questions about the meeting.
2nd Annual SalsaFest
Celebrate Arizona's Salsa Trail® at the hottest event in Southern Arizona- the 2nd Annual SalsaFest on Friday & Saturday, September 26th & 27th, in the City of Safford Town Square. Downtown Safford will be aglow with hot air balloons on Friday evening as festivities begin in the historic town square. The SalsaFest is a celebration of everything Salsa including an opportunity to win prizes and bragging rights in the Salsa Challenge.
Join in the fun listening to live entertainment, eating delicious food, and sampling some of the greatest salsas in the Southwest. SalsaFest activities include a salsa making contest, a Festival Marketplace, Salsa music & dancing, food demonstrations, chili roasting, a kids area, a special Salsa Walk to benefit the Gila Valley Boys & Girls Club, an evening hot air balloon glow & Saturday morning sunrise lift off, and Jalapeno & Salsa Eating competitions.
The public is invited to participate in the judging for the People's Choice Awards in the Salsa Tasting Tent. Salsa Trail® restaurants will dish up samples of their special concoctions and Salsa Challenge contestants will compete for top honors and prizes.
The 2008 SalsaFest will be held in the Safford Town Square from 5 - 9 pm on Friday & 10 am - 6 pm on Saturday. Entry to the Salsa Tent is $4 for adults to sample entrees and participate as a judge for the People's Choice Awards. Proceeds from the event will benefit a special community project to be awarded by the Safford Lions Club and the Gila Valley Rotary Club, the event hosts.
More information is available at SalsaTrail.com or by calling the Graham County Chamber of Commerce at 1-888-837-1841 or (928) 428-2511.
Join in the fun listening to live entertainment, eating delicious food, and sampling some of the greatest salsas in the Southwest. SalsaFest activities include a salsa making contest, a Festival Marketplace, Salsa music & dancing, food demonstrations, chili roasting, a kids area, a special Salsa Walk to benefit the Gila Valley Boys & Girls Club, an evening hot air balloon glow & Saturday morning sunrise lift off, and Jalapeno & Salsa Eating competitions.
The public is invited to participate in the judging for the People's Choice Awards in the Salsa Tasting Tent. Salsa Trail® restaurants will dish up samples of their special concoctions and Salsa Challenge contestants will compete for top honors and prizes.
The 2008 SalsaFest will be held in the Safford Town Square from 5 - 9 pm on Friday & 10 am - 6 pm on Saturday. Entry to the Salsa Tent is $4 for adults to sample entrees and participate as a judge for the People's Choice Awards. Proceeds from the event will benefit a special community project to be awarded by the Safford Lions Club and the Gila Valley Rotary Club, the event hosts.
More information is available at SalsaTrail.com or by calling the Graham County Chamber of Commerce at 1-888-837-1841 or (928) 428-2511.
American Diabetes Association Rip’s B.A.D. Ride Arizona IV
Thousands of bikers across Arizona are revving up for the Rip’s B.A.D. Ride Arizona IV, Bikers Against Diabetes, on October 26th, an event of the American Diabetes Association. More than 2,500 bikers are expected to ride, starting from sites across Arizona and converging at Pinal County Fairgrounds in Casa Grande.
Community members are invited to join the bikers after the ride at Pinal County Fairgrounds for food, exhibits, music and shows. The festivities at the Park begin at 10 am. Ride participants will receive a ride pin; lunch; and entrance to a rock concert, as well as all shows and exhibits. Entertainment includes performances by the bands Wooden Nickel and Canned Heat and a special performance by sport bike stunt group Team Lojic. Emceeing the event is Shortbus.
The minimum donation for riders registered by October 22nd, is $30, $35 on the day of the ride. Second riders are an additional $20. Riders raising more will qualify for prizes on ride day. Bikers who are really B.A.D. and raise $500 or more will receive special benefits. ALL bikes are welcome and non riders are encouraged to join the festivities.
For more information, contact the American Diabetes Association at 888-DIABETES, ext. 7112, or visit ripsbadride.com.
Start sites include, IronHorse V-Twin, Thunder Manufacturing, Chandler Harley-Davidson, Hacienda Harley-Davidson, Chester's Harley-Davidson and Arrowhead Harley-Davidson in the Phoenix Metro area and Arizona Honda & Tucson Harley-Davidson in the Tucson area.
Major Sponsors Thunder Manufacturing, IronHorse V-Twin, Rural Metro Fire Department, OPFFA, Chester’s Harley-Davidson, Arizona Honda, Superstition Harley-Davidson, Tom Bragg Financial Management, Integra Telecom, Chuck Franklin Law, Network Dogs Inc and Dales Doors.
Rip's B.A.D. Ride began in Southern California and was conceived by the late Easyriders magazine columnist and photojournalist Rip, whose words and photos appeared in Rip’s Run column for more than a dozen years. Rip, lived with Type 2 diabetes for more than 10 years, and passed away Feb 18th, 2000.
Rip brought the idea of a fundraising motorcycle ride to the American Diabetes Association more than twelve years ago and continued to be an integral part of the planning of the Southern California ride, up until his death. Rip was truly the founding father of the B.A.D. Ride.
Rip’s goal was to “bring the Biker Nation together to fight diabetes” and the Southern California ride is entering its 13th year and has raised more than $2 million.
Rip's vision is becoming a reality with the growth of the ride in Arizona, Northern California, Texas, Iowa, Kansas, St. Louis and Virginia. New cities are added ever year.
More than 23 million Americans have diabetes; one-third are undiagnosed. A chronic, life-threatening disease for which there is no cure, diabetes occurs when the body either cannot make insulin or has difficulty processing insulin. Complications from diabetes include heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage and amputations.
The American Diabetes Association is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization concerned with diabetes and its complications. Founded in 1940, the Association provides services in communities nationwide. The mission of the American Diabetes Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
Community members are invited to join the bikers after the ride at Pinal County Fairgrounds for food, exhibits, music and shows. The festivities at the Park begin at 10 am. Ride participants will receive a ride pin; lunch; and entrance to a rock concert, as well as all shows and exhibits. Entertainment includes performances by the bands Wooden Nickel and Canned Heat and a special performance by sport bike stunt group Team Lojic. Emceeing the event is Shortbus.
The minimum donation for riders registered by October 22nd, is $30, $35 on the day of the ride. Second riders are an additional $20. Riders raising more will qualify for prizes on ride day. Bikers who are really B.A.D. and raise $500 or more will receive special benefits. ALL bikes are welcome and non riders are encouraged to join the festivities.
For more information, contact the American Diabetes Association at 888-DIABETES, ext. 7112, or visit ripsbadride.com.
Start sites include, IronHorse V-Twin, Thunder Manufacturing, Chandler Harley-Davidson, Hacienda Harley-Davidson, Chester's Harley-Davidson and Arrowhead Harley-Davidson in the Phoenix Metro area and Arizona Honda & Tucson Harley-Davidson in the Tucson area.
Major Sponsors Thunder Manufacturing, IronHorse V-Twin, Rural Metro Fire Department, OPFFA, Chester’s Harley-Davidson, Arizona Honda, Superstition Harley-Davidson, Tom Bragg Financial Management, Integra Telecom, Chuck Franklin Law, Network Dogs Inc and Dales Doors.
Rip's B.A.D. Ride began in Southern California and was conceived by the late Easyriders magazine columnist and photojournalist Rip, whose words and photos appeared in Rip’s Run column for more than a dozen years. Rip, lived with Type 2 diabetes for more than 10 years, and passed away Feb 18th, 2000.
Rip brought the idea of a fundraising motorcycle ride to the American Diabetes Association more than twelve years ago and continued to be an integral part of the planning of the Southern California ride, up until his death. Rip was truly the founding father of the B.A.D. Ride.
Rip’s goal was to “bring the Biker Nation together to fight diabetes” and the Southern California ride is entering its 13th year and has raised more than $2 million.
Rip's vision is becoming a reality with the growth of the ride in Arizona, Northern California, Texas, Iowa, Kansas, St. Louis and Virginia. New cities are added ever year.
More than 23 million Americans have diabetes; one-third are undiagnosed. A chronic, life-threatening disease for which there is no cure, diabetes occurs when the body either cannot make insulin or has difficulty processing insulin. Complications from diabetes include heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage and amputations.
The American Diabetes Association is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization concerned with diabetes and its complications. Founded in 1940, the Association provides services in communities nationwide. The mission of the American Diabetes Association is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
Cobre Valley Republican Club Headquarters Grand Opening
On August 21st, the Cobre Valley Republican Club will hold a grand opening of their new headquarters, at 365 N. Broad St. in downtown Globe. Attending will be various candidates for election, and re-election such as State Senator Sylvia Allen, County Attorney Daisy Flores, County Superintendant of Education Dr. Linda O'Dell, David Cook candidate for County Supervisor District 3, & possibly others.
They will be serving refreshments between Noon & 6 pm, to all that would like to attend.
They will be serving refreshments between Noon & 6 pm, to all that would like to attend.
State Route 77 Construction Announcement
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) says an $8.7 million project to widen a two-mile segment of State Route 77 that's located 10 miles north of Winkelman will start by October 1st. The project will create roadway shoulders and a rockfall containment ditch.
Nearly one-half million cubic yards of rock will have to be blasted from the adjacent cliff to provide room for the widening. Because of the limited space available, the highway will have to be closed during daytime hours through April 2009. Traffic between Winkelman and Globe will be diverted to State Route 177 and US 60.
The highway will be open for restricted travel during nighttime hours. One lane will be open, with signals at each end of the work zone to control one-way alternating traffic. Drivers can expect a 10 minute wait at the signals.
Special provisions will be made to provide access through the work area by emergency vehicles.
For road conditions and up-to-date restrictions around Arizona, dial 511 or visit az511.com.
Nearly one-half million cubic yards of rock will have to be blasted from the adjacent cliff to provide room for the widening. Because of the limited space available, the highway will have to be closed during daytime hours through April 2009. Traffic between Winkelman and Globe will be diverted to State Route 177 and US 60.
The highway will be open for restricted travel during nighttime hours. One lane will be open, with signals at each end of the work zone to control one-way alternating traffic. Drivers can expect a 10 minute wait at the signals.
Special provisions will be made to provide access through the work area by emergency vehicles.
For road conditions and up-to-date restrictions around Arizona, dial 511 or visit az511.com.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Florence Holding Public Hearings For Major Amendments To The Town's General Plan
The Town of Florence Planning and Zoning Commission is conducting two public hearings for the consideration of a Major Amendment to the Town's General Plan. To promote increased public participation, meetings are held in two locations.
The first meeting is held on September 4th, in the Anthem at Merrill Ranch Sun City Community Center in Florence, located at 3925 North Sun City Boulevard. The second meeting is held on September 18th, in the Town Hall Council Chambers, located at 775 N. Main Street. Both meetings are held at 6:30 pm, unless otherwise noticed.
After listening to the details of the proposed Major Amendment to the Town's General Plan, the Planning and Zoning Commission will make a recommendation for approval or disapproval and forward their recommendation to the Florence Town Council. The Florence Town Council will hold a public hearing and determine final action at the meeting held on October 20th, at 7 pm, unless otherwise noticed.
The Town's General Plan is a critical planning and policy tool used to encourage smart growth and sustainable development practices. The upcoming Major General Plan Amendment hearings close out what has been a two year open and public General Plan update process.
The State of Arizona requires communities, like Florence, to update their General Plans a minimum of once every ten years. However, Florence, like many other incorporated areas in Arizona, determined a mid-cycle update necessary due to the new growth that has occurred and the expanded Town limits since the last Major General Plan update was approved.
The public is encourage to attend these hearings to learn more about this project and provide feedback on how you think Florence should position itself for future years. For more information, please contact the Town Planning Department at (520) 868-7575.
The first meeting is held on September 4th, in the Anthem at Merrill Ranch Sun City Community Center in Florence, located at 3925 North Sun City Boulevard. The second meeting is held on September 18th, in the Town Hall Council Chambers, located at 775 N. Main Street. Both meetings are held at 6:30 pm, unless otherwise noticed.
After listening to the details of the proposed Major Amendment to the Town's General Plan, the Planning and Zoning Commission will make a recommendation for approval or disapproval and forward their recommendation to the Florence Town Council. The Florence Town Council will hold a public hearing and determine final action at the meeting held on October 20th, at 7 pm, unless otherwise noticed.
The Town's General Plan is a critical planning and policy tool used to encourage smart growth and sustainable development practices. The upcoming Major General Plan Amendment hearings close out what has been a two year open and public General Plan update process.
The State of Arizona requires communities, like Florence, to update their General Plans a minimum of once every ten years. However, Florence, like many other incorporated areas in Arizona, determined a mid-cycle update necessary due to the new growth that has occurred and the expanded Town limits since the last Major General Plan update was approved.
The public is encourage to attend these hearings to learn more about this project and provide feedback on how you think Florence should position itself for future years. For more information, please contact the Town Planning Department at (520) 868-7575.
Arizona Senators Release Statement On The Grand Canyon Rescue & Relief Efforts
U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) and Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) released the following statements commending the swift action by federal, local and state authorities in response to a breach of an earthen dam and subsequent flooding in Supai Canyon, near the Grand Canyon:
“The weather that led to heavy water flows down Cataract Canyon into Supai Canyon was met with a rapid and heroic response from public safety officials and volunteers,” said Senator McCain. “The evacuations certainly helped prevent injury and loss of life.”
Senator McCain stated, “I commend the rescue and relief efforts of the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Arizona National Guard, the Arizona Havasupai Tribe, The Arizona Hualapai Tribe, the National Park Service, the American Red Cross, the Coconino County Sheriff’s office, the Mohave County Sheriff's Office, and many others.”
“I am grateful for the professional response and efforts from local, state, and federal authorities following the flooding in Supai Canyon,” said Senator Kyl. “Once all people are accounted for and damages and facts are assessed, Senator McCain and I will work with appropriate agencies to fulfill federal responsibilities.”
Senators McCain and Kyl intend to visit the affected areas on August 21st.
“The weather that led to heavy water flows down Cataract Canyon into Supai Canyon was met with a rapid and heroic response from public safety officials and volunteers,” said Senator McCain. “The evacuations certainly helped prevent injury and loss of life.”
Senator McCain stated, “I commend the rescue and relief efforts of the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Arizona National Guard, the Arizona Havasupai Tribe, The Arizona Hualapai Tribe, the National Park Service, the American Red Cross, the Coconino County Sheriff’s office, the Mohave County Sheriff's Office, and many others.”
“I am grateful for the professional response and efforts from local, state, and federal authorities following the flooding in Supai Canyon,” said Senator Kyl. “Once all people are accounted for and damages and facts are assessed, Senator McCain and I will work with appropriate agencies to fulfill federal responsibilities.”
Senators McCain and Kyl intend to visit the affected areas on August 21st.
Pinal County Sheriff’s Update
Pinal County Sheriff’s Update
91st Installment
September, 2008
To The Citizens of Pinal County;
Folks, this month has been so busy for me that I really haven’t had time to write a monthly letter for all of you. So I went back through the archives and found a letter that is fitting and timely. It just so happens I found one from 2003 written by then Sheriff Roger Vanderpool. So without further delay, please find his letter below…
Until next month, thank you and God Bless.
Chris Vásquez
Sheriff
To The Citizens of Pinal County;
“The art of politics is not to believe what your friends tell you, but to understand what they cannot or will not tell you....” Jonas Savimbi
By the time this is printed most of the schools in Pinal County will be back in session. With the opening day of school comes an increase of traffic, especially near the schools, both vehicular and pedestrian. So this month I would like to provide some reminders of basic rules to help us continue safe guarding the children of our county.
With the rapid growth of the county, several new schools have opened their doors, so you may encounter a school crossing almost anywhere. School crossings will be marked by a yellow sign depicting two children walking. The maximum speed approaching a "marked" school crossing is 15 mph. Passing another vehicle in a school crossing is prohibited. Often times there will be a crossing guard to assist children crossing the street. You must follow the instruction of the crossing guard and must come to a complete stop when any person is in the crosswalk.
As you are driving on our streets and roadways, be cautious when you see children walking along the roadway or sidewalk, or riding their bikes. Often times their minds are on many things except safety. Be aware that they might suddenly dart out into the roadway for no apparent reason or to chase a ball or another child.
Drivers should also be aware that with new communities popping up all over the place, that there will be new bus routes, and buses will be traveling and stopping in areas where you hadn't seen them before. When approaching a school bus that is picking up or dropping off passengers, you must come to a complete stop before reaching the bus. The bus will have is alternating flashing lights and the mechanical stop-sign arm in operation while passengers are entering or leaving the bus. You must remain stopped until the bus moves ahead or until the stop-sign and flashing lights are no longer shown. Be ALERT, look out for children crossing the road in front of or behind the school bus. Motorists should exercise extreme care when in the vicinity of any stopped school bus, as a child may dart out in the roadway from any direction.
You are not required to stop for a school bus on a divided roadway while traveling in the OPPOSITE direction. A divided roadway is one in which the road is separated by physical barriers such as a fence, curbing or other separation of the pavement. Roadway striping or a turn lane does not constitute a physical separation of the roadway.
Remember, you are the adult, drive like one! And always buckle up you and your loved ones!
Till next month, be careful, and may God continue to bless us all and our great country.
Roger L. Vanderpool
91st Installment
September, 2008
To The Citizens of Pinal County;
Folks, this month has been so busy for me that I really haven’t had time to write a monthly letter for all of you. So I went back through the archives and found a letter that is fitting and timely. It just so happens I found one from 2003 written by then Sheriff Roger Vanderpool. So without further delay, please find his letter below…
Until next month, thank you and God Bless.
Chris Vásquez
Sheriff
To The Citizens of Pinal County;
“The art of politics is not to believe what your friends tell you, but to understand what they cannot or will not tell you....” Jonas Savimbi
By the time this is printed most of the schools in Pinal County will be back in session. With the opening day of school comes an increase of traffic, especially near the schools, both vehicular and pedestrian. So this month I would like to provide some reminders of basic rules to help us continue safe guarding the children of our county.
With the rapid growth of the county, several new schools have opened their doors, so you may encounter a school crossing almost anywhere. School crossings will be marked by a yellow sign depicting two children walking. The maximum speed approaching a "marked" school crossing is 15 mph. Passing another vehicle in a school crossing is prohibited. Often times there will be a crossing guard to assist children crossing the street. You must follow the instruction of the crossing guard and must come to a complete stop when any person is in the crosswalk.
As you are driving on our streets and roadways, be cautious when you see children walking along the roadway or sidewalk, or riding their bikes. Often times their minds are on many things except safety. Be aware that they might suddenly dart out into the roadway for no apparent reason or to chase a ball or another child.
Drivers should also be aware that with new communities popping up all over the place, that there will be new bus routes, and buses will be traveling and stopping in areas where you hadn't seen them before. When approaching a school bus that is picking up or dropping off passengers, you must come to a complete stop before reaching the bus. The bus will have is alternating flashing lights and the mechanical stop-sign arm in operation while passengers are entering or leaving the bus. You must remain stopped until the bus moves ahead or until the stop-sign and flashing lights are no longer shown. Be ALERT, look out for children crossing the road in front of or behind the school bus. Motorists should exercise extreme care when in the vicinity of any stopped school bus, as a child may dart out in the roadway from any direction.
You are not required to stop for a school bus on a divided roadway while traveling in the OPPOSITE direction. A divided roadway is one in which the road is separated by physical barriers such as a fence, curbing or other separation of the pavement. Roadway striping or a turn lane does not constitute a physical separation of the roadway.
Remember, you are the adult, drive like one! And always buckle up you and your loved ones!
Till next month, be careful, and may God continue to bless us all and our great country.
Roger L. Vanderpool
Mesa Fire Department Connector Program Hiring
The Mesa Fire Department/Mesa Community College Connector Program is now accepting applications. Connectors are Mesa Fire Department volunteers who perform a variety of non-emergency duties including but not limited to: fire crew support, crisis support, motorist assists, social service referrals, and transports.
Applications are being taken from Sept. 8th, through Sept. 19th, 2008. No experience is necessary and all training and equipment is provided. Interested candidates can visit their website and download an applicant packet from the Connector Program page. If you don’t have internet access, please call (480) 644-5042 to request an applicant packet.
Applications are being taken from Sept. 8th, through Sept. 19th, 2008. No experience is necessary and all training and equipment is provided. Interested candidates can visit their website and download an applicant packet from the Connector Program page. If you don’t have internet access, please call (480) 644-5042 to request an applicant packet.
Pinal County To Allow Open Burning In Reduced Wildfire Risk Areas
The Pinal County Air Quality Division has resumed issuing open burning permits in portions of Pinal County. The ban originally went into effect in late April to mitigate the risk of wildfire. Recent rains and higher humidity levels have reduced the fire risk in many areas.
The ban on open burning will remain in effect where local fire departments still regard open fires as a threat, including the Apache Junction, Oracle and Queen Valley Fire Districts.
State law prohibits open burning in the portion of north central Pinal County that includes Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Gold Canyon and the Johnson Ranch area. This region is affected by more stringent air quality regulations that prohibit open burning until after Oct. 1st.
Applications for burn permits are posted on the Air Quality Division’s website.
The ban on open burning will remain in effect where local fire departments still regard open fires as a threat, including the Apache Junction, Oracle and Queen Valley Fire Districts.
State law prohibits open burning in the portion of north central Pinal County that includes Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Gold Canyon and the Johnson Ranch area. This region is affected by more stringent air quality regulations that prohibit open burning until after Oct. 1st.
Applications for burn permits are posted on the Air Quality Division’s website.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Shelter Open For Supai Canyon Evacuees And Donations Are Still Being Accepted
In support of the Coconino County Emergency Manager and the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the American Red Cross has opened a shelter for people being evacuated from the Supai Canyon following a dam break.
The shelter is set up at the Hualapai Tribal gym located at 950 Rodeo Way in Peach Springs, AZ 86434. At the Red Cross shelter, people will have a safe place to sleep. Additionally, the Red Cross is partnering with the Southern Baptist Convention to feed people impacted by the evacuation. Plus, Red Cross counselors are providing emotional support.
The Grand Canyon Chapter responded to more than 650 disasters during our last fiscal year. We’re able to meet the immediate needs of our neighbors in need through the generous support of Arizonans. If you would like to make a donation to help victims of a local disaster like this one, please call (602) 336-6660 or go to arizonaredcross.org.
The shelter is set up at the Hualapai Tribal gym located at 950 Rodeo Way in Peach Springs, AZ 86434. At the Red Cross shelter, people will have a safe place to sleep. Additionally, the Red Cross is partnering with the Southern Baptist Convention to feed people impacted by the evacuation. Plus, Red Cross counselors are providing emotional support.
The Grand Canyon Chapter responded to more than 650 disasters during our last fiscal year. We’re able to meet the immediate needs of our neighbors in need through the generous support of Arizonans. If you would like to make a donation to help victims of a local disaster like this one, please call (602) 336-6660 or go to arizonaredcross.org.
Globe-Miami Chamber Noon Luncheon
The Globe-Miami Chamber of Commerce will have their Noon luncheon on Thursday, Aug. 21st at Joe's Broad Street Grill, 247 Broad St. in Historic Downtown Globe. The topic of the luncheon will be the new Elder Care Resource book which has been compiled by the Elder Care subcommittee of the Quality of Life committee. This meeting is especially pertinent to all community organizations, law enforcement and care groups that deal regularly with senior citizens. The cost of the lunch is only $11 per person. Please call the chamber at 425-4495 if you plan to attend the luncheon.
Queen Creek Shooting Update
Pinal County Sheriff's Office detectives have arrested three suspects in relation to yesterday's (08-17-08) Cambria shooting. At approx. 3 pm yesterday, detectives arrested Thais "Lamar" Cooper age 20, of Queen Creek, Johnny Lee Cooks age 21, of Queen Creek, and a 17 year old Queen Creek male juvenile in relation to the fatal shooting of a 17-year-old Queen Creek High School student in the early morning of Aug. 17th.
At about 2:30 am on Aug. 17th, the Pinal County Sheriff's Office received several 9-1-1 calls in reference to multiple shots fired and a subject laying face down next to the street off of Altadonna near Cambria in the Cambria neighborhood, east of the Town of Queen Creek. The victim, Anibal Mendoza was pronounced deceased on scene from a fatal gunshot wound to the head. The victim was part of a group who allegedly had ongoing issues with another group.
On the morning of the shooting, the two groups confronted each other at a park in Cambria. The altercation was initiated by a shotgun shot from a male juvenile member of a group of approx. five-people, toward a group of approx. nine people. No major injuries resulted from the shotgun shot.
After the initial confrontation, the five-person group left the park and drove to a nearby side street in Cambria. The victim and another member of the nine-person group followed to confront the group on the side street. After another altercation, Cooper allegedly shot the victim and Cooks shot at the other member of the victim's group as he drove away. Alcohol could have been a factor.
Cooper faces felony charges of murder in the first degree, conspiracy and child abuse. Cooks faces felony charges of endangerment and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and the 17 year old juvenile faces aggravated assault charges.
The victim's next of kin has been notified and his body was transported to the Pima County Medical Examiner's Office.
At about 2:30 am on Aug. 17th, the Pinal County Sheriff's Office received several 9-1-1 calls in reference to multiple shots fired and a subject laying face down next to the street off of Altadonna near Cambria in the Cambria neighborhood, east of the Town of Queen Creek. The victim, Anibal Mendoza was pronounced deceased on scene from a fatal gunshot wound to the head. The victim was part of a group who allegedly had ongoing issues with another group.
On the morning of the shooting, the two groups confronted each other at a park in Cambria. The altercation was initiated by a shotgun shot from a male juvenile member of a group of approx. five-people, toward a group of approx. nine people. No major injuries resulted from the shotgun shot.
After the initial confrontation, the five-person group left the park and drove to a nearby side street in Cambria. The victim and another member of the nine-person group followed to confront the group on the side street. After another altercation, Cooper allegedly shot the victim and Cooks shot at the other member of the victim's group as he drove away. Alcohol could have been a factor.
Cooper faces felony charges of murder in the first degree, conspiracy and child abuse. Cooks faces felony charges of endangerment and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and the 17 year old juvenile faces aggravated assault charges.
The victim's next of kin has been notified and his body was transported to the Pima County Medical Examiner's Office.
Archer Welcomed As Casa Grande's New Finance Director
The City of Casa Grande has selected Diane Archer as their new Finance Director. Diane has spent the past 9 years as the Financial & Performance Management Coordinator for the Town of Gilbert's Finance Department. Archer is replacing Larry Rains, who was promoted to Deputy City Manager earlier this year. Archer will begin her duties in Casa Grande on August 25th.
City of Casa Grande's 2008 Fall Parks & Rec. Brochure Available
The 2008 Fall Parks and Rec. brochure is now available, and to make it even easier, its online. You can download the brochure in a pdf format that is very easy to use. If you want a printed copy, those will be available very soon. Once the printed copies are ready, a notice with a list of locations will be sent out.
Live Music At Boyce Thompson
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park visitors continue to have the opportunity to relax during the evening hours on selected Saturdays during the summer. The popular series continues August 23rd, with music by classical guitarist Jim Vandine and another special guest musician.
Queen Creek country singer Tammy Tidwell will be on stage in the picnic area from 5:30 - 6:30 pm, and then Globe guitarist Jim Vandine plays classical (and a few modern interpretations of classical songs) from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Other events at BTA this weekend include a 9:30 am butterfly walk and then a 10:30 am "how to juice prickly pear fruits" cactus class on Saturday, and then a Sunday tour explaining "edible / medicinal plants of the Sonoran desert" at 9:30 am. For details please call Arboretum staff during daytime business hours from 6 am to 3 pm at (520) 689-2723.
Visitors can bring a picnic basket and enjoy free live music for a reduced admission. Normal summer business hours are from 6 am until 3 pm, but hours will be extended until 8 pm Saturday, August 23rd. A special admission price of $5 for non-members will be offered, and children under the age of five will be admitted free. There is no charge for entertainment from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm, and charcoal grills are available in the picnic area.
Elevation at the Arboretum is 1,000 feet higher than Arizona's major metropolitan areas and is appreciably cooler.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located on U.S. Highway 60, three miles west of historic Superior. Summer hours are from 6 am until 3 pm every day. Visit btarboretum.org for more information.
Queen Creek country singer Tammy Tidwell will be on stage in the picnic area from 5:30 - 6:30 pm, and then Globe guitarist Jim Vandine plays classical (and a few modern interpretations of classical songs) from 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Other events at BTA this weekend include a 9:30 am butterfly walk and then a 10:30 am "how to juice prickly pear fruits" cactus class on Saturday, and then a Sunday tour explaining "edible / medicinal plants of the Sonoran desert" at 9:30 am. For details please call Arboretum staff during daytime business hours from 6 am to 3 pm at (520) 689-2723.
Visitors can bring a picnic basket and enjoy free live music for a reduced admission. Normal summer business hours are from 6 am until 3 pm, but hours will be extended until 8 pm Saturday, August 23rd. A special admission price of $5 for non-members will be offered, and children under the age of five will be admitted free. There is no charge for entertainment from 5:30 pm until 7:30 pm, and charcoal grills are available in the picnic area.
Elevation at the Arboretum is 1,000 feet higher than Arizona's major metropolitan areas and is appreciably cooler.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located on U.S. Highway 60, three miles west of historic Superior. Summer hours are from 6 am until 3 pm every day. Visit btarboretum.org for more information.
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