A California woman sought for the parental abduction of her two minor children was arrested this afternoon at the Nogales Port of Entry after more than 10 days on the run.
Maria Velasquez, 31, was wanted on a felony warrant by the Pinal County Sheriffs Office for custodial interference. On Feb. 4th, 2009 Velasquez abducted her biological children, ages 8 and 9, as they left for school in Casa Grande. Velasquez had her parental rights taken away by the state of California and the children were temporarily living with relatives in Casa Grande. After the abduction, Investigators solicited the assistance of the United States Marshals Service Child Predator Apprehension Team, which specializes in apprehending non-compliant sex offenders and locating and recovering missing children.
Shortly after learning of the abduction, Investigators were able to determine that Velasquez, a U.S. Citizen, had fled the country and taken the children to Mexico. Investigators determined that Velasquez had ultimately fled to the state of Durango, Mexico. Armed with this information members of the United States Marshals Service Mexico Investigative Liaison Unit quickly notified law enforcement officials in Mexico, who helped facilitate the safe return of the two children and the arrest of Velasquez. Numerous law enforcement agencies in Mexico assisted in the investigation including: UNESA Specialized Apprehension Unit from Culiacan, Sinaloa, Durango Attorney General’s Office, & the Durango Commander of Asuntos Relevantes, Special Investigations Unit.
United States Marshal David Gonzales praised the work of Deputies and law enforcement officers adding, “The United States Marshals Service places the highest priority in locating and recovering children such as these, and we along with our state and local partners will continue to use every available resource to assist them in locating children who are the true victims of these crimes.”
The full-time federal, state, and local agencies that comprise the Arizona WANTED include: U.S. Marshals Service; Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Arizona Dept. of Public Safety; Maricopa County Adult Probation Office; Mesa Police Dept.; Chandler Police Dept.; Tempe Police Dept.; Surprise Police Dept.; & several part-time state and local law enforcement agencies.
The Child Predator Apprehension Team is a dedicated unit of the US Marshals led-Arizona WANTED Fugitive Task Force which specializes in capturing offenders who commit crimes against children. The Arizona WANTED task force has elements in Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, & Flagstaff.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
'Arizona Cardinals' Special Bird Walk
The Arizona Cardinals made our state proud at the Super Bowl and now visitors to Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park can take a special bird walk in search of an Arizona Cardinal. Arboretum volunteer naturalists Shary and Jerry Hammon lead a special tour on Feb. 24th, seeking Northern Cardinals, Black-throated Sparrows, & other species. The tour begins at 8:30 am and lasts up to two hours.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located in the shadow of Picket Post Mountain three miles west of historic Superior on U.S. Highway 60. Call (520) 689-2723 or visit ag.arizona.edu/bta for more information.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located in the shadow of Picket Post Mountain three miles west of historic Superior on U.S. Highway 60. Call (520) 689-2723 or visit ag.arizona.edu/bta for more information.
Early Morning Fire At Ortega's Shoes
The Globe Fire Dept. was sent to a reported fire in the downtown area at Ortega's Shoes at approx. 4:41 am this morning. The first unit to arrive on scene located smoke and fire in the front showcase area and after one section of the large glass was removed to make access to the fire. The crew was then able to extinguish and contain the fire to only the showcase area. The residual smoke inside the main store both downstairs and upstairs was evacuated with an exhaust fan.
The fire could have been much worse:
City of Globe employee, John Aungulo, was driving the street sweeper in the downtown area and was the first person to call it in. He also discharged a fire extinguisher through a ssmall hole in the glass that may have slowed the fire down. His quick actions may have saved the fire from spreading further.
The exact cause of the fire is unknown at the present time and is being investigated by the Globe Fire Dept. Also, the Globe Fire Dept. is reporting that there were no reported injuries.
The fire could have been much worse:
City of Globe employee, John Aungulo, was driving the street sweeper in the downtown area and was the first person to call it in. He also discharged a fire extinguisher through a ssmall hole in the glass that may have slowed the fire down. His quick actions may have saved the fire from spreading further.
The exact cause of the fire is unknown at the present time and is being investigated by the Globe Fire Dept. Also, the Globe Fire Dept. is reporting that there were no reported injuries.
Monday, February 16, 2009
AMC’s 2009 AMC Best Picture Showcase Stopping In Phoenix
AMC Entertainment Inc. (AMC), one of the world’s largest and most innovative theatrical exhibition companies, is proud to offer guests the rare opportunity to experience all five motion pictures nominated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for "Best Picture," on one special day.
On Saturday, Feb. 21st, the AMC Best Picture Showcase will take place at approx. 97 AMC theatres in 42 North American markets and one of those cities is Phoenix. Guests can purchase an exclusive AMC Best Picture Showcase All-Day Pass for only $30, or just $25 for AMC MovieWatcher® members. Moviegoers will have the chance to see all five Oscar®-nominated "Best Picture" films and will also receive a large popcorn with unlimited refills for the entire day. This offer is valued at more than $50 and marks the third year of this exclusive event.
The Oscar® "Best Picture" nominees, "Milk," "The Reader," "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "Slumdog Millionaire" and "Frost/Nixon," will play in one dedicated auditorium back-to-back throughout the day. Upon arrival to the theatre, guests will receive a souvenir lanyard, which will feature artwork from the five nominated films and give guests the freedom to come and go throughout the event as they please.
Guests can locate a theatre hosting AMC Best Picture Showcase in their area by visiting amctheatres.com.
AMC Best Picture Showcase schedule (all times local; schedule is the same nationwide):
"Milk" - 10:30 am.
"The Reader" - 1:05 pm.
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" - 3:45 pm.
"Slumdog Millionaire" - 7:15 pm.
"Frost/Nixon" - 9:45 pm.
On Saturday, Feb. 21st, the AMC Best Picture Showcase will take place at approx. 97 AMC theatres in 42 North American markets and one of those cities is Phoenix. Guests can purchase an exclusive AMC Best Picture Showcase All-Day Pass for only $30, or just $25 for AMC MovieWatcher® members. Moviegoers will have the chance to see all five Oscar®-nominated "Best Picture" films and will also receive a large popcorn with unlimited refills for the entire day. This offer is valued at more than $50 and marks the third year of this exclusive event.
The Oscar® "Best Picture" nominees, "Milk," "The Reader," "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button," "Slumdog Millionaire" and "Frost/Nixon," will play in one dedicated auditorium back-to-back throughout the day. Upon arrival to the theatre, guests will receive a souvenir lanyard, which will feature artwork from the five nominated films and give guests the freedom to come and go throughout the event as they please.
Guests can locate a theatre hosting AMC Best Picture Showcase in their area by visiting amctheatres.com.
AMC Best Picture Showcase schedule (all times local; schedule is the same nationwide):
"Milk" - 10:30 am.
"The Reader" - 1:05 pm.
"The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" - 3:45 pm.
"Slumdog Millionaire" - 7:15 pm.
"Frost/Nixon" - 9:45 pm.
Masters of Disaster®: Free Preparedness Online Training
A $50,000 dollar grant from State Farm Insurance is making it possible for Arizona’s families and students to access free life-saving preparedness materials. The Red Cross’s Masters of Disaster® education curriculum is now available for anyone to download from Arizona’s PBS station, Eight/KAET’s website.
The Masters of Disaster® series teaches children, kindergarten through eighth grade, about personal safety, disasters and preparedness. It also helps reduce fear of the unexpected. “The goal is to create a culture of preparedness among youth today – one where readiness is top of mind everywhere we live, learn and work,” said Cara Sloman, Grand Canyon Chapter Emergency Services Director. “The Masters of Disaster® series provides a fundamental way to meet that goal.”
State Farm Insurance Companies and the American Red Cross have been partnering for years to ensure the safety of children and families before, during and after disasters. “We make it our business to be like a
good neighbor and strengthen our communities through educational programs such as the Masters of Disaster® curriculum,” said Gus Miranda, State Farm Public Affairs Representative. “We are confident this top-quality educational resource can save lives.”
Eight/KAET’s website is providing the essential tool, and Generation Eight, the station’s family initiative, is a great way for families, teachers and caregivers to connect, learn and explore together. “We understand the vital role the Red Cross plays in Arizona neighborhoods,” said Kelly McCullough, Acting General Manager. “The partnership between State Farm, Red Cross and Eight/KAET will help us educate people about preparedness and strengthen communities throughout the state. Together, the potential outreach is tremendous.”
In the last year Arizona has seen flooding, wildfires, home fires and monsoon storms impact lives by forcing people from their homes and destroying property. Arizonans will benefit from this unique educational opportunity. “The partnership between the State Farm Insurance, Red Cross and Eight/KAET-TV will have a tremendous impact on our state’s level of preparedness,” added Sloman.
The Masters of Disaster® materials meet national education standards and are designed to supplement teachers’ lesson plans. The curriculum is also appropriate for other organizations that reach children, like after-school programs. The materials include background information, lessons, videos, answer sheets, glossaries, answer sheets and certificates of completion. To access Masters of Disaster®, visit azpbs.org/mastersofdisaster or arizonaredcross.org.
The Masters of Disaster® series teaches children, kindergarten through eighth grade, about personal safety, disasters and preparedness. It also helps reduce fear of the unexpected. “The goal is to create a culture of preparedness among youth today – one where readiness is top of mind everywhere we live, learn and work,” said Cara Sloman, Grand Canyon Chapter Emergency Services Director. “The Masters of Disaster® series provides a fundamental way to meet that goal.”
State Farm Insurance Companies and the American Red Cross have been partnering for years to ensure the safety of children and families before, during and after disasters. “We make it our business to be like a
good neighbor and strengthen our communities through educational programs such as the Masters of Disaster® curriculum,” said Gus Miranda, State Farm Public Affairs Representative. “We are confident this top-quality educational resource can save lives.”
Eight/KAET’s website is providing the essential tool, and Generation Eight, the station’s family initiative, is a great way for families, teachers and caregivers to connect, learn and explore together. “We understand the vital role the Red Cross plays in Arizona neighborhoods,” said Kelly McCullough, Acting General Manager. “The partnership between State Farm, Red Cross and Eight/KAET will help us educate people about preparedness and strengthen communities throughout the state. Together, the potential outreach is tremendous.”
In the last year Arizona has seen flooding, wildfires, home fires and monsoon storms impact lives by forcing people from their homes and destroying property. Arizonans will benefit from this unique educational opportunity. “The partnership between the State Farm Insurance, Red Cross and Eight/KAET-TV will have a tremendous impact on our state’s level of preparedness,” added Sloman.
The Masters of Disaster® materials meet national education standards and are designed to supplement teachers’ lesson plans. The curriculum is also appropriate for other organizations that reach children, like after-school programs. The materials include background information, lessons, videos, answer sheets, glossaries, answer sheets and certificates of completion. To access Masters of Disaster®, visit azpbs.org/mastersofdisaster or arizonaredcross.org.
Gila County Cattle Growers Dinner
On Saturday Feb. 21st, the Elks will honor the Gila County Cattle Growers with an evening at the Globe Elks. At 5:30 pm there will be No Host Cocktails, followed by the rib-eye steak dinner at 6:30 pm, with a dance following the dinner. Everyone is welcome to attend. President of the Arizona State Cattlegrowers, Mr. Tom Chilton will speak and the Buster Mounce community service award will be presented.
The cost is $25 per plate at the door or $20 for pre-purchased tickets. The pre-purchased tickets can be obtained at Hicks Wellness Clinic, 138 S. Broad Street in Globe or by calling (928) 425-3207, or by contacting Carol Handy at the Elks Club at (928) 425-2161.
The cost is $25 per plate at the door or $20 for pre-purchased tickets. The pre-purchased tickets can be obtained at Hicks Wellness Clinic, 138 S. Broad Street in Globe or by calling (928) 425-3207, or by contacting Carol Handy at the Elks Club at (928) 425-2161.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Arizona City Daze Festival
The Arizona City Daze Festival is an all day event starting with the parade starting at 9am on Feb. 28th. They will have events at various locations throughout Arizona City. Activities will include the parade, arts & crafts, rides, food & drink, & loads of free entertainment all day.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Ground Breaking For Casa Grande's New Animal Care Adoption Center Held Last Thursday
The City of Casa Grande has committed to start construction of a New Animal Care Adoption Center. The new center will be located on a City owned lot at 202 E 1st Avenue.
Senior Animal Care Officer, Linda Ericson expressed her joy saying, “After a long wait of nearly 13 years my dream of a shiny brand new facility is finally a reality.”
Mayor Bob Jackson, Council Members along with City staff attended a ground breaking ceremony at 2 pm on Thursday, Feb. 12th.
“I hope the residents of Casa Grande will look at this new project for the community with compassion, then maybe pledge a donation to help with our adoption program,” said Public Information Officer for the City, David Bridger. He added, “For information on how you can make a donation to the new Animal Care Center, please visit casagrandeaz.gov or call 520-421-8600 ext. 2530.” You can also mail your gift to the City of Casa Grande, Animal Care & Adoption Center, Attn. Finance Department, 510 E. Florence Blvd Casa Grande AZ 85222.
To prevent unwanted litters of kittens or puppies, Casa Grande Animal Care and Adoption has a strict spay/neuter program in place. Cats and Dogs adopted from the center will be spayed or neutered.
Senior Animal Care Officer, Linda Ericson expressed her joy saying, “After a long wait of nearly 13 years my dream of a shiny brand new facility is finally a reality.”
Mayor Bob Jackson, Council Members along with City staff attended a ground breaking ceremony at 2 pm on Thursday, Feb. 12th.
“I hope the residents of Casa Grande will look at this new project for the community with compassion, then maybe pledge a donation to help with our adoption program,” said Public Information Officer for the City, David Bridger. He added, “For information on how you can make a donation to the new Animal Care Center, please visit casagrandeaz.gov or call 520-421-8600 ext. 2530.” You can also mail your gift to the City of Casa Grande, Animal Care & Adoption Center, Attn. Finance Department, 510 E. Florence Blvd Casa Grande AZ 85222.
To prevent unwanted litters of kittens or puppies, Casa Grande Animal Care and Adoption has a strict spay/neuter program in place. Cats and Dogs adopted from the center will be spayed or neutered.
Arizona Museum of Natural History's All Scout Day
The Arizona Museum of Natural History, 53 N. Macdonald in Mesa, is hosting its annual All Scout Day on Saturday, Feb. 21st, from 10 am to 1 pm.
The event will provide scouts an opportunity to create their own space aliens and a space traveling Flat Stanley, based on the popular book about Stanley, a child who becomes flat and is able to travel in an envelope to incredible places. Scouts will also get the chance to learn about the size of the planets and the distances between them.
All Scout Day is not related to any badge. It is an opportunity to see the new Mars! exhibition, participate in fun activities and give scouts a better understanding of the red planet.
Museum members pay $2 per person while nonmembers, ages 3 and up, pay $6 per person. Please call (480) 644-3553 to RSVP for the program.
The event will provide scouts an opportunity to create their own space aliens and a space traveling Flat Stanley, based on the popular book about Stanley, a child who becomes flat and is able to travel in an envelope to incredible places. Scouts will also get the chance to learn about the size of the planets and the distances between them.
All Scout Day is not related to any badge. It is an opportunity to see the new Mars! exhibition, participate in fun activities and give scouts a better understanding of the red planet.
Museum members pay $2 per person while nonmembers, ages 3 and up, pay $6 per person. Please call (480) 644-3553 to RSVP for the program.
Desert Schools FCU Offering $5,000 Reward In Conviction Of Robbery Suspect(s)
Desert Schools Federal Credit Union is offering up to $5,000* for original information leading to the conviction of suspects responsible for a robbery and bomb threat at the credit union's 7th Street & Missouri branch location (5555 N. 7th Street, Phoenix).
The incident occurred late yesterday afternoon when a suspect entered the branch and placed two empty bags on the counter. He handed the teller a note demanding money and claimed he had an explosive device in one of the bags.
The suspect reportedly fled the scene with an unspecified amount of cash in a white Pontiac Grand Am sedan driven by a second person. Phoenix PD Bomb Squad retrieved the device and rendered it safe.
The suspect is described as a White male, 40-50 years old with a mustache and dark shoulder length hair.
Jason Meyers, a spokesperson for the credit union said, "We now know the package did not contain any explosives. Unfortunately, the Valley has seen a sharp rise in robberies over the past few months as the economy worsens. We want to remind people to be extra aware of their surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity to the police. When times get tough, people resort to these types of crimes, which put everyone at risk."
Desert Schools has 1,300 employees and 64 branch locations in Maricopa, Pinal and Gila Counties.
*the conviction of the suspect(s) responsible for these robberies. Desert Schools FCU, in its sole discretion, will decide who is entitled to a reward and in what amount. Desert Schools FCU may pay only a portion of the maximum reward offered. The decision will be based primarily upon law enforcement's evaluation of the value of the information provided. When there are multiple claimants, the reward will be shared in amounts determined by Desert Schools FCU. Desert Schools FCU employees are not eligible for the reward. This reward offer is good for one year from the date it is first offered unless extended by Desert Schools FCU.
The incident occurred late yesterday afternoon when a suspect entered the branch and placed two empty bags on the counter. He handed the teller a note demanding money and claimed he had an explosive device in one of the bags.
The suspect reportedly fled the scene with an unspecified amount of cash in a white Pontiac Grand Am sedan driven by a second person. Phoenix PD Bomb Squad retrieved the device and rendered it safe.
The suspect is described as a White male, 40-50 years old with a mustache and dark shoulder length hair.
Jason Meyers, a spokesperson for the credit union said, "We now know the package did not contain any explosives. Unfortunately, the Valley has seen a sharp rise in robberies over the past few months as the economy worsens. We want to remind people to be extra aware of their surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity to the police. When times get tough, people resort to these types of crimes, which put everyone at risk."
Desert Schools has 1,300 employees and 64 branch locations in Maricopa, Pinal and Gila Counties.
*the conviction of the suspect(s) responsible for these robberies. Desert Schools FCU, in its sole discretion, will decide who is entitled to a reward and in what amount. Desert Schools FCU may pay only a portion of the maximum reward offered. The decision will be based primarily upon law enforcement's evaluation of the value of the information provided. When there are multiple claimants, the reward will be shared in amounts determined by Desert Schools FCU. Desert Schools FCU employees are not eligible for the reward. This reward offer is good for one year from the date it is first offered unless extended by Desert Schools FCU.
Friday, February 13, 2009
New Scam Involves APS & Southwest Gas
The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to make everybody aware of this recent scam. A citizen has experienced two fraudelent calls in the last few days from two reputable corporations. One is Southwest Gas and the other is APS. The caller tells you that are requesting yo to change your method of paymet to either auto deduction or sure pay. Both will require you to give out personal information including your banking info. The caller also told the resident that she also owes some late fees. The resident advised the caller that she would be contacting Southwest Gas, she also to the person stating they were representing APS the same thing. Both times the caller told her "go ahead".
APS & Southwest Gas have been contacted in this matter.
APS & Southwest Gas have been contacted in this matter.
Water Problem Sends Miami Students Home Early
A water issue at the Miami High School has forced Miami to start sending students home in the next half hour. The students will be released at approx. 10 am.
Philosopher Daniel Dennett Holding Lecture On Darwinism
“Darwin’s Strange Inversion of Reasoning” is the topic of this year’s signature lecture presented by the BEYOND Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science at Arizona State University. The lecture will be given by philosopher and author Daniel Dennett at 7:30 pm on Feb. 18th, in Galvin’s Playhouse on ASU's Tempe campus.
Dennett was propelled to international fame with his ground-breaking book “Consciousness Explained,” widely cited as the most important contribution in modern times to the ancient mystery of consciousness, free will and the concept of self. Dennett’s incisive account of how consciousness could arise from the interaction of physical processes in the brain singled him out as a champion of scientific reduction. His follow-up book, “Darwin’s Dangerous Idea: Evolution and the Meanings of Life,” continued in the same vein, and fueled a debate concerning not only the power of Darwinian processes to explain biological complexity, but to “corrode” through an entire world view. The book was a finalist for the 1995 National Book Award in nonfiction.
His other titles include “Content and Consciousness,” “Brainstorms,” “Elbow Room,” “The Intentional Stance,” “Kinds of Minds,” and his most recent book “Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon.” He is author of more than 300 scholarly articles on various aspects of the mind and has published in journals including Artificial Intelligence, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Poetics Today, Journal of Aesthetics, and Art Criticism.
“Daniel Dennett is in high demand as one of the world’s most respected and eloquent philosophers. He has a reputation for selecting provocative themes that stir discussion and thought, and presenting them with elegance and lucidity,” says Paul Davies, ASU professor and founding director of the BEYOND Center in ASU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
“The BEYOND annual lecture challenges one of the world’s leading intellectuals to think beyond the confines of their specialism, and to offer new insights into science, philosophy or futurology,” says Davies. “We’re in for a treat with Dennett’s lecture.”
The year’s BEYOND lecture coincides with ASU’s Darwinfest – a celebration of Darwin’s 200th birthday and 150th anniversary of the publication of “On the Origin of Species.” More details about Darwinfest at darwin.asu.edu.
Dennett is the Austin B. Fletcher Professor of Philosophy at Tufts University as well as the co-director of the Center for Cognitive Studies. He received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Harvard University and a doctorate of philosophy from Oxford University.
He taught at the University of California, Irvine, from 1965 to 1971, and has since taught at Tufts University.
Dennett has received two Guggenheim Fellowships, a Fulbright Fellowship and a Fellowship at the Center for Advanced Studies in Behavioral Science. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1987.
The BEYOND lecture is free and open to the public. Entry is on a first come, first served basis. C.A.R.T. services will be available. More information at (480) 965-3240 or beyond.asu.edu. Online maps of the Tempe campus and parking facilities are at: asu.edu/map.
The BEYOND Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science is a pioneering international research center established in 2006 at ASU. This “cosmic think tank” is specifically dedicated to confronting the big questions raised by advances in fundamental science, and facilitating new research initiatives that transcend traditional subject categories.
Dennett was propelled to international fame with his ground-breaking book “Consciousness Explained,” widely cited as the most important contribution in modern times to the ancient mystery of consciousness, free will and the concept of self. Dennett’s incisive account of how consciousness could arise from the interaction of physical processes in the brain singled him out as a champion of scientific reduction. His follow-up book, “Darwin’s Dangerous Idea: Evolution and the Meanings of Life,” continued in the same vein, and fueled a debate concerning not only the power of Darwinian processes to explain biological complexity, but to “corrode” through an entire world view. The book was a finalist for the 1995 National Book Award in nonfiction.
His other titles include “Content and Consciousness,” “Brainstorms,” “Elbow Room,” “The Intentional Stance,” “Kinds of Minds,” and his most recent book “Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon.” He is author of more than 300 scholarly articles on various aspects of the mind and has published in journals including Artificial Intelligence, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Poetics Today, Journal of Aesthetics, and Art Criticism.
“Daniel Dennett is in high demand as one of the world’s most respected and eloquent philosophers. He has a reputation for selecting provocative themes that stir discussion and thought, and presenting them with elegance and lucidity,” says Paul Davies, ASU professor and founding director of the BEYOND Center in ASU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
“The BEYOND annual lecture challenges one of the world’s leading intellectuals to think beyond the confines of their specialism, and to offer new insights into science, philosophy or futurology,” says Davies. “We’re in for a treat with Dennett’s lecture.”
The year’s BEYOND lecture coincides with ASU’s Darwinfest – a celebration of Darwin’s 200th birthday and 150th anniversary of the publication of “On the Origin of Species.” More details about Darwinfest at darwin.asu.edu.
Dennett is the Austin B. Fletcher Professor of Philosophy at Tufts University as well as the co-director of the Center for Cognitive Studies. He received his bachelor’s degree in philosophy from Harvard University and a doctorate of philosophy from Oxford University.
He taught at the University of California, Irvine, from 1965 to 1971, and has since taught at Tufts University.
Dennett has received two Guggenheim Fellowships, a Fulbright Fellowship and a Fellowship at the Center for Advanced Studies in Behavioral Science. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 1987.
The BEYOND lecture is free and open to the public. Entry is on a first come, first served basis. C.A.R.T. services will be available. More information at (480) 965-3240 or beyond.asu.edu. Online maps of the Tempe campus and parking facilities are at: asu.edu/map.
The BEYOND Center for Fundamental Concepts in Science is a pioneering international research center established in 2006 at ASU. This “cosmic think tank” is specifically dedicated to confronting the big questions raised by advances in fundamental science, and facilitating new research initiatives that transcend traditional subject categories.
Fourth Annual NBPA and Feed The Children All-Star Food Distribution Saturday
On Feb. 14th, at 8 am, the National Basketball Players Association, St. Vincent de Paul, & Feed The Children are teaming up to deliver three semi tractor-trailers of food items in conjunction with the NBA All Star Game. Distribution will begin 2 pm at Society of St. Vincent de Paul (420 West Watkins Road). No NBA players will be in attendance.
This will mark the Fourth Annual National Basketball Players Association and Feed The Children All-Star food distribution.
Feed The Children partner agency Society of St. Vincent de Paul pre-identified the 1,200 families who will each receive a box of food items.
"The commitment of NBA players to their communities has helped to feed thousands of people in need, and provides a great example of how public-private partnership can make a difference in our communities,” said Larry Jones, founder and president of Feed The Children. “We are proud to partner with the NBPA to deliver the promise of the holiday season for so many children and families.”
This will mark the Fourth Annual National Basketball Players Association and Feed The Children All-Star food distribution.
Feed The Children partner agency Society of St. Vincent de Paul pre-identified the 1,200 families who will each receive a box of food items.
"The commitment of NBA players to their communities has helped to feed thousands of people in need, and provides a great example of how public-private partnership can make a difference in our communities,” said Larry Jones, founder and president of Feed The Children. “We are proud to partner with the NBPA to deliver the promise of the holiday season for so many children and families.”
Miami Senior Center & Cobre Valley Transit Closed Next Wednesday
The Town of Miami Senior Center & Cobre Valley Transit will be closed on Feb. 18th, for staff training.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Scam Targeting The Elderly
The Gila County Sheriff's Office would like to inform the public of a potential scam recently reported. A male caller telephoned an elderly citizen and pretended to be their grandson in order to get them to send money to Canada. The caller sounded young with no particular accent and was able to get the first name of a legitimate family member with vague answers to the citizen's questions. If you receive similar calls please question the caller and make sure that you are indeed speaking to a family member by asking the caller a specific question that only your real family would know. Most times when pressured for quick specific answers, the caller if not legitimate will give up. Please report these calls to the Law Enforcement Agency servicing your residence.
The Sheriffs Office would like to remind you that some legitimate organizations request donations over the phone but please be sure that you are speaking with whom the caller is representing. A person or entity requesting donations will not be afraid to give you straight forward answers to your questions or provide address or telephone information for the agency or group they represent so that you can double check you are in fact donating to that group.
The Sheriffs Office would like to remind you that some legitimate organizations request donations over the phone but please be sure that you are speaking with whom the caller is representing. A person or entity requesting donations will not be afraid to give you straight forward answers to your questions or provide address or telephone information for the agency or group they represent so that you can double check you are in fact donating to that group.
Infant Of Murdered Mom Dies
The infant of Angel Bollinger died this morning at 1:30 am from complications resulting from the emergency premature delivery.
GCC Renewable/Sustainable Energy Program Ready For Final Approval
Gila Community College’s (GCC) work on the Renewable/Sustainable Energy Program reached a milestone by completing the curriculum this week. Industry officials have indicated that GCC and Eastern Arizona College (EAC) have taken the lead state-wide on a program of this type. The curriculum now goes before the EAC Planning and Steering Committee for final approval.
GCC has had the assistance of Chris Martin, Executive Director of Economic Development Corporation and President Bill Marshall. Martin has facilitated several meetings with Arizona Public Service (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP) as part of the curriculum design process. The new program is scheduled to begin in the Fall 2009 semester at the GCC Occupational Training Center in Claypool.
Dr. Stephen Cullen, Senior Dean at Gila Community College states, "We truly appreciate the work of Chris Martin and Bill Marshall. Without their assistance this new program would not be possible."
GCC has had the assistance of Chris Martin, Executive Director of Economic Development Corporation and President Bill Marshall. Martin has facilitated several meetings with Arizona Public Service (APS) and Salt River Project (SRP) as part of the curriculum design process. The new program is scheduled to begin in the Fall 2009 semester at the GCC Occupational Training Center in Claypool.
Dr. Stephen Cullen, Senior Dean at Gila Community College states, "We truly appreciate the work of Chris Martin and Bill Marshall. Without their assistance this new program would not be possible."
Globe-Miami Gun Range Saturday Closure Notice
The range will be closed this Saturday Feb. th, from noon to 2pm for the Junior's match. Also, this Saturday, Predator Hunters International, will start their shoot at 2pm and last until around 5pm. At the Feb. 11th, meeting, present members voted to allow this short notice request. Effectively, this mean's that the range is effectively closed all afternoon this Saturday. Members, the range will be open until noon if you want to use it.
Pinal County Board of Supervisors Approve Budget Balancing Measures
The Pinal County Board of Supervisors approved additional measures aimed at balancing the county’s budget while still meeting the needs of the public. The Board approved several strategies aimed at balancing the budget due to declines in fees and sales tax.
“Despite entering the year with an austere budget, a continued decline in the economy is forcing a request for Board approval of a two percent mid-year budget cut,” said County Manager Terry Doolittle.
He explained to the Board that state shared sales tax, which accounts for the bulk of the General Fund, is down about 12%. Revenue from permits and fees is also down.
“We are not taking as bad a hit as some counties but we are looking at a general fund shortfall of about 5.8 percent,” Doolittle added.
To address the shortfall, the Supervisors approved a hiring freeze that will take effect next Monday that will extend through June 30th, 2010. With the exception of critically needed positions in public safety, detention, probation and correctional health, the hiring freeze would apply to positions funded through the General Fund.
One year ago, Pinal County officials instituted a 180-day hiring delay that resulted in some significant vacancy savings to help balance the budget. Elected Officials, Court Officials and department directors can request an exemption from the hiring freeze for essential personnelonly.
The Board also implemented a freeze on travel and training unless it is “mission critical” or training that is required to maintain professional certifications.
Another strategy approved by the Board is to offer an incentive for early retirement to employees with 10 or more years of service who are 62 or older. Approximately 20 employees could choose to take advantage of the incentive, which includes the pay out of accrued sick leave.
“Several vacant positions are also being eliminated. Based on current economic forecasts, departments may need to implement layoffs to meet FY 2009-2010 budget objectives,” Doolittle said. “I have asked our leadership teams to develop the next year’s budget with two scenarios – projecting budget cuts of five and ten percent.”
“The goal in this economy has to be focused on meeting the needs of the public for safety, health and responsible community development while managing the taxpayer dollar wisely,” Chairman David Snider stated. “All areas of funding are getting hit. As we look to make difficult decisions in the future, we will take into account what is mandated, non-mandated, mission critical and non-mission critical and seek to balance competing priorities.”
“We need to be careful that we not use a hatchet when a scalpel would be better,” Supervisor Bryan Martyn said. “We are having to take a hard look at cutting programs that are nice to do for the communities but are not vitally necessary or mission critical.”
The program that the Supervisors have suspended is the Community Cleanup program. In lieu of the program, the County will work with landfill operators to implement a program so that residents can take their trash to the dump for free once per quarter.
“The hope is that communities and volunteers will organize their own cleanups and take advantage of the free dump day option. We cannot afford to be the garbage service for the entire County,” Supervisor Martyn said.
Supervisor Pete Rios, who previously served in the State Legislature, said he has been involved in many budget preparations and reductions in bad economic times.
“I am pleased that Pinal County allowed agency heads and the Sheriff to decide how they would reduce their budgets by two percent to balance this year’s budget. By not cutting out certain budget line items, the Board of Supervisors did not micro-manage anyone’s budget priorities,” Rios said.
“Despite entering the year with an austere budget, a continued decline in the economy is forcing a request for Board approval of a two percent mid-year budget cut,” said County Manager Terry Doolittle.
He explained to the Board that state shared sales tax, which accounts for the bulk of the General Fund, is down about 12%. Revenue from permits and fees is also down.
“We are not taking as bad a hit as some counties but we are looking at a general fund shortfall of about 5.8 percent,” Doolittle added.
To address the shortfall, the Supervisors approved a hiring freeze that will take effect next Monday that will extend through June 30th, 2010. With the exception of critically needed positions in public safety, detention, probation and correctional health, the hiring freeze would apply to positions funded through the General Fund.
One year ago, Pinal County officials instituted a 180-day hiring delay that resulted in some significant vacancy savings to help balance the budget. Elected Officials, Court Officials and department directors can request an exemption from the hiring freeze for essential personnelonly.
The Board also implemented a freeze on travel and training unless it is “mission critical” or training that is required to maintain professional certifications.
Another strategy approved by the Board is to offer an incentive for early retirement to employees with 10 or more years of service who are 62 or older. Approximately 20 employees could choose to take advantage of the incentive, which includes the pay out of accrued sick leave.
“Several vacant positions are also being eliminated. Based on current economic forecasts, departments may need to implement layoffs to meet FY 2009-2010 budget objectives,” Doolittle said. “I have asked our leadership teams to develop the next year’s budget with two scenarios – projecting budget cuts of five and ten percent.”
“The goal in this economy has to be focused on meeting the needs of the public for safety, health and responsible community development while managing the taxpayer dollar wisely,” Chairman David Snider stated. “All areas of funding are getting hit. As we look to make difficult decisions in the future, we will take into account what is mandated, non-mandated, mission critical and non-mission critical and seek to balance competing priorities.”
“We need to be careful that we not use a hatchet when a scalpel would be better,” Supervisor Bryan Martyn said. “We are having to take a hard look at cutting programs that are nice to do for the communities but are not vitally necessary or mission critical.”
The program that the Supervisors have suspended is the Community Cleanup program. In lieu of the program, the County will work with landfill operators to implement a program so that residents can take their trash to the dump for free once per quarter.
“The hope is that communities and volunteers will organize their own cleanups and take advantage of the free dump day option. We cannot afford to be the garbage service for the entire County,” Supervisor Martyn said.
Supervisor Pete Rios, who previously served in the State Legislature, said he has been involved in many budget preparations and reductions in bad economic times.
“I am pleased that Pinal County allowed agency heads and the Sheriff to decide how they would reduce their budgets by two percent to balance this year’s budget. By not cutting out certain budget line items, the Board of Supervisors did not micro-manage anyone’s budget priorities,” Rios said.
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