Tribe Sues Freeport Subsidiary

The online Zonie Report says that the Tohono O’odham Nation is suing a subsidiary of Freeport McMoRan. The tribe claims that the Cyprus Tohono Corporation released hazardous substances such as sulfuric acid, damaging the area’s natural resources.

The mining activities allegedly occurred 32 miles southwest of Casa Grande on land the tribe leased to Cyprus Tohono.

The tribe says the US Environmental Protection Agency is investigating.

Miami Council Agenda

Miami Town Council meets Monday at 6:30. The agenda includes a Resolution authorizing the application for 2009-2010 Community Development Block Grant Funds.

The Council will determine the next step in the process to raise waste water collection system rates to meet state and federal expectations.

They will consider an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation about updating the Town of Miami’s traffic lights.

They will discuss the continued services of volunteers, and the setting of goal dates for completing state mandated audits.

And the Council will consider an Intergovernmemtal Agreement with Gila County for Local Transportation Assistance Fund money for the Miami Senior Center.

Globe Council Meets Monday

Globe City Council meets Monday at 6:00. The Council will consider an offer from Gila County to contribute $10,000 of its allocation of the state’s Local Transportation Assistance Fund to be used specifically for transportation related costs incurred by the Globe Senior Center.

They will possibly select one of the 11 proposals for development of the Northeast Globe Area Plan.

The Council will consider Vice Mayor Cassilas’s recommendation to waive fees for youth groups for the use of field lights at Globe baseball and soccer fields. This would be for official games and tournaments, not practices. The proposal also establishes a $100 cleaning deposit for each applicant.

Councilmembers may also provide direction to the the City Manager about proposals from Web designers to develop and maintain a City of Globe Web site.

Obituary

Bernando Nosie of San Carlos passed away Tuesday at Maricopa Medical Center in Phoenix. He was 47. He is survived by his wife Evelyn; 6 daughters; his son; his sister; and 2 brothers.
The wake for Bernando Nosie is Sunday at 4:pm at the Nosie residence. The funeral is Monday at 2:pm in the Rice Primary School Activity Hall.

Free Weather Class Saturday

The National Weather Service is offering a free training class in Globe tomorrow (Saturday) to teach people how to properly identify and report significant weather conditions. The class is from 2 to 4:pm at the Gila County Division of Emergency Management on Apache Avenue. To register or for information call 402-8805.

Gas Prices Continue Upward Climb

The price of gasoline continues its upward climb. AAA Arizona says motorists statewide are paying an average of $2.30 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline. That’s an increase of more than 16 cents from last week. The nationwide average increased more than 11 cents to just under $2.45 a gallon. Prices in Globe-Miami are around $2.27.

Police Log

One person was injured in a two vehicle accident yesterday afternoon in the area of Highway 60 and Walmart. He was taken to Cobre Valley Community Hospital. The other driver left the scene. 54 year old David Kluver of Queen Creek was located a short time later. He was charged with DUI, leaving the scene of an accident, and failure to control a vehicle to avoid an accident.

A minor injury accident occurred on Highway 60 near Kentucky Fried Chicken. One car was towed from the scene.

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday morning in the Ruiz Canyon area. One driver was cited for failure to yield.

Globe Police arrested 51 year old Beatrice Martinez shortly after midnight at a residence on Escalera. She was charged with domestic violence and assault.

The Gila County Narcotic Task Force arrested 30 year old Jennifer Green on a warrant for failure to appear on charges of criminal trespass and possession of a dangerous drug.

DPS Phoenix arrested 33 year old Waylon Ijacich of Miami on warrants for DUI and disorderly conduct/fighting.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft at a residence on Mendoza; criminal damage to a residence on Cooley Ranch Road; and a theft from the Apache Gold Casino parking lot.

Globe Police are investigating a report of criminal damage to a vehicle in the area of Willow.

Obituaries

Harvey Bendle of Peridot passed away Saturday at Trillium Specialty Hosptal in Mesa. He was 60. He is survived by his wife Lolita; his son Harty; his daughters Harvina and Cassandra Bendle; his brother; 5 sisters; and 3 grandchildren.
The wake for Harvey Bendle is today (Friday) at 4:pm at the Bendle residence. The funeral is Saturday at 1:pm at San Carlos Riverside Church.

Lukeas Paul Ortega passed away Wednesday at his home in Globe. He was 17. He is survived by his father Joseph Ray Ortega; 2 brothers, including Jose Ray Ortega; his sister Anissa McBride; and his grandmothers Margaret Hernandez and Connie Ortega.
Visitation for “Luke” Ortega will be Monday at 10:am at Holy Angels Catholic Church. The funeral is at 11:00.

West End Blues

Early and Wet Monsoon Predicted

The National Weather Service says this year’s monsoon season should arrive early and be at least as strong as last year. That’s when storms dropped almost six inches of rain in Phoenix—twice the normal average.

KTAR in Phoenix reports that the Weather Service says May’s unusual weather is a preview of what’s ahead. Most of the rain should be in the eastern third of the state, possibly concentrated in the southeast.

Last summer’s monsoon included hurricane-force winds in August that downed power poles in Phoenix, tore the roof off homes, and heavily damaged ASU’s indoor football practice facility.

Legislators Pass School Tax Credits Bill

The Arizona legislature has approved a bill to create new school tax credits to help foster care and disabled students attend private schools. The bill now goes to Governor Jan Brewer, who called the lawmakers into a special session last week on that issue.

The Arizona Republic reports that the bill creates corporate tax credits for business donations to groups that provide students with tuition grants.

The law is a reaction to an Arizona Supreme Court ruling that says two voucher programs for foster care and disabled children are unconstitutional.

Horne Changes School English-Screening Process

State schools Superintendent Tom Horne has ordered Arizona schools to simplifiy the method used to screen students for enrollment in a four hour daily English immersion course. He says too many children are being identified as English learners because they are behind academically, not because they have problems with the language.

Some teachers, lawmakers and attorneys say the changes are a way to save money at the expense of students. Horne says these are false accusations made by “idiots.”

The Arizona Republic reports that the US Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights is being asked to investigate.

Jacque Durbin Becomes Certified Court Executive

On May 15, Gila County Superior Court Deputy Administrator Jacque Durbin became a Fellow and Certified Court Executive of the National Center for State Courts’ Institute for Court Management. Durbin and 21 others from across the country took part in graduation ceremonies at the US Supreme Court in Washington, DC.

Durbin was a member of the first graduating class of Arizona’s “Court Manager Program.” She was then accepted for participation in the national program in 2007.

The Court Executive Development Program at the National Center for State Courts is the only program of its kind in the United States.

Blasts Today on US 60

The next blasts on the US 60 Pinto Valley project are scheduled for today (Thursday) at 10:30 and 12:30. Drivers can expect delays of up to 30 minutes following each blast.

Summer Reading Program Begins June 10

The Globe Public Library launches its annual Summer Reading Program on Wednesday, June 10 at 10:am with a festival that includes songs, crafts and prizes.

The Summer Reading Program will meet on Wednesday and Thursday mornings for four weeks. The purpose is to promote reading during the summer break.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday just before Noon on Highway 60 near Cobre Valley Motors.

Globe Police responded to a report of a shoplifter in custody at a store on Highway 60. 25 year old Marlene Pazzi was arrested for the incident.

33 year old Chad Wenger was arrested yesterday for harassment.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a hit and run accident on Morrow Avenue. The suspect was an inmate on work release. 46 year old Ruben Lianoz was re-arrested and charged with criminal damage/domestic violence and leaving the scene of an accident.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of criminal damage to a vehicle at the Motor Vehicle Department and a report of harassment taken at the Gila County Courthouse.

Globe Police are investigating a hit and run early this morning to a vehicle parked on South Broad Street.

Art

Arizona Smoking Drop Largest in Nation

A new report released Wednesday says that the number of adult Arizonans who smoke dropped by nearly 20% since 2007. That’s the sharpest decline in the nation. The Arizona Daily Star reports that the American Lung Association study shows that the percentage of Arizonans 18 and older who smoke dropped to about 16%. That translates to about 170,000 fewer people who smoke.

Arizona Lung Association President Bill Pfeifer credits 2006 voter approval of some of the toughest anti-smoking legislation in the nation.

House OKs Bill to Make Arizona 'Grand Canyon State'

A lot of people may not know that Arizona’s nickname “the Grand Canyon State” isn’t official. The Arizona Republic reports that the state House has voted overwhelmingly in favor of correcting that. The bill now goes to the state Senate, which so far hasn’t considered anything but budget bills.

State Historian Marshall Trimble told lawmakers that he wasn’t aware that the nickname wasn’t official until a California fifth grader e-mailed him about it.

Bill Would Legalize Some Fireworks

Legislation to legalize sparklers and some types of fireworks is one step closer to becoming law. The Arizona House approved the bill on Tuesday and sent it to the Senate.

The Arizona Daily Star reports that the industry backed bill would allow sparklers and fountain fireworks that shoot flames and sparks. It would not legalize firecrackers that explode or shoot into the air.

Supporters say these devices are safe and don’t need government regulation.

Two governors vetoed siminlar bills.in the 1990’s, citing safety concerns.

Police Log

Globe Police and EMS responded to an ATV rollover accident yesterday on North Broad Street in front of Big O Tires. The driver was taken to Cobre Valley Community Hospital.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy arrested 26 year old Levi Sullivan at a traffic stop yesterday for driving under the influence of drugs and possession of marijuana.

28 year old Laverne Copeland was arrested for extreme DUI.

29 year old Albert Reyes was arrested on warrants for threats and intimidation, child support and driving with a suspended license.

Mirror Sequence from 'Duck Soup'

Global Survey Finds People Optimistic

In spite of current economic woes, a new global survey finds that 90% of people around the world expect the next five years to be as good or better than life today. LiveScience.com reports that 95% expect their life in five years to be as good or better than it was five years ago.

The researchers conclude that human beings are naturally optimistic. Past studies have also found optimism to be a common human trait. For example, most people expect to live longer and be more successful than average.

Optimism is a healthy trait to have. A decade-long study published in 2004 found that those with brighter outlooks had a 55% lower risk of death during the study period.

The latest survey is based on data from 140 countries and more than 150,000 adults.

San Carlos Apache Tribe Transportation Study Meetings

The San Carlos Apache Tribe Economic Development Department and the Arizona Department of Transportation will hold two public meetings on June 24, 2009. The public is invited to attend the meetings and learn about the San Carlos Apache Tribe’s Long Range Transportation Plan Update.

Tribal Planning staff, ADOT representatives and the project consultant will be there to answer questions.

The meetings will be on Wednesday, June 24 from 3 to 5:pm in Bylas and from 6 to 8:pm in San Carlos. For more information, contact Tribal Transportation Planner Barney Bigman at 475-2331.

Globe School Board Meets Wednesday

Globe School Board meets tomorrow (Wednesday) at 6:pm at the Mofford Activity Center. The agenda includes approval of several 2009-2010 handbooks, including the Copper Rim, High Desert Middle School, Globe High School, and the District Coaching Handbooks.

Study Says SAT Coaching Doesn't Help Much

A study released Wednesday shows that SAT prep courses that cost parents hundreds and even thousands of dollars aren't really much help.

The National Association for College Admission Counseling says that on average the prep tests might help a student gain 30 points on the test, which is based on 2,400 possible points.

The study also warns school admissions offices not to rely too much on SAT or ACT tests because differences in scores could be the result of measurement error and unequal access to coaching.

The Washington Post reports that test preparation has become a $4 billion business. SAT coaching ranges from free practice tests to one on one tutoring that can cost more than $200 an hour.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 44 year old Rosalinda Skinner for domestic violence, disorderly conduct and criminal damage after a disturbance yesterday at a residence on North Broad Street.

A 911 call reported that 46 year old Julia Usry had assaulted her husband and left in her vehicle. She was contacted a short time later and arrested for domestic assault.

24 year old Erica Columbus and 23 year old Jessica Morales were cited and released for disorderly conduct after a disturbance last night at Globe Mobile Home Park.

Last night a Gila County Sheriff’s deputy took a report of shots fired in the area of Highway 60 and Calle De Loma. A man reported that he was traveling westbound when someone in the vehicle next to him discharged an unknown firearm toward his vehicle. Nobody was hurt. The damage appeared to be caused by an air soft gun or something similar. The case is under investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a burglary at a residence on Gordon Street and criminal damage at the Pinal Mountain Little League field.

Fine and Mellow

1/5 of Arizona Drivers Would Fail Exam

A national survey says that more than one fifth of Arizonans who have driver’s licenses would not be able to pass a written exam today. Nationally, 20% of Americans with licenses can’t pass the test. In Arizona the number is close to 23%.

A news relaese about the GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test says that the number of drivers with knowledge of basic road rules is decreasing.

Idaho and Wisconsin drivers tied for first in the nation with an average test score of over 80%. The Arizona average score was 76.5%.

Respondents continue to have trouble with questions about yellow lights and safe following distance. Almost everybody knows what a solid line means.

You can take the test yourself online to see how you compare with other drivers. Go to www.gmacinsurance.com.

Globe Pool Opens Tuesday

The Globe Community Center Swimming Pool opens tomorrow (Tuesday) at Noon. Pool hours will be from Noon to 5:pm seven days a week. Adult lap swimming is from 5 to 6:pm Monday through Friday.

Daily rates are $1.00 for ages 12 and under, $2 for ages 13 and older. Swim passes are also available.

Due to structural problems they will not be able to open the baby pool.

Pinto Valley Project Blasts on Tuesday and Thursday

The next blasts on the US 60 Pinto Valley project are scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday) and Thursday between 10:am and Noon. Drivers can expect delays of up to 30 miniutes following each blast. There may be brief delays at other times duing those days.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at 10:00. The meeting includes a Public Hearing on a Planning and Zoning Department Case; an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Arizona Emergency and Military Affairs Department for the use of Interoperable Communications Systems; and a $3,200 grant application for funds to purchase equipment for the Globe Regional Constable’s Office.

Miami Council Meets Tuesday

Miami Town Council meets tomorrow (Tuesday) night at 6:30, following a Workshop at 6:15. The Regular Meeting agenda includes an underage drinking ordinance.

There’s an Intergovernemntal Agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation concerning the updating of the streetlights in Miami.

The Council will consider placing a copper ladle donated by Freeport McMoran in front of the Bullion Plaza Museum.

Councilmembers may go into Executive Session to discuss claims submitted by the Tri City Fire Department.

Police Log

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office, Canyon Fire EMT’s and Tri City ambulance were dispatched to the area of Four Star Mobile Home Park late Saturday night. A man was assaulted. He was flown by helicopter to a Valley hospital.

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday morning in the Six Shooter Canyon area. One driver was cited for failure to yield to a stop sign.

Three people were arrested yesterday evening at a traffic stop on Manor Drive. The driver—34 year old Stephen Gerardo--was arrested for driving with a revoked license. 27 year old Michelle Vasquez of Mesa was arrested on warrants for driving with a suspended license. 19 year old Jose Casteneda of Superior was arrested on warrants for shoplifting and possession of dangerous drugs.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy responded to a report of a hit and run accident in Roosevelt Estates. The driver reportedly hit a utility pole and kept going. The deputy located and arrested 18 year old Danny Schmidt of Show Low for criminal damage, theft of means of transportation, DUI and underage consumption.

Last night a Globe Police officer responded to a report of a naked man near the downtown Safeway. 45 year old Robert Holy was arrested for indecent exposure.

Officers are investigating criminal damage to a vehicle at Copper Country Mobile Home Park,

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating criminal damage to a vehicle parked on Grover Canyon.

Obituary

Longtime Globe resident David Wesley Johnson passed away Friday at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa. He was 74. He is survived by his wife Ilene; 3 daughters, including Jean Moss and Judtith Bessee of Globe; his son; and 8 grandchildren.
A Memorial Service for David Johnson will be held Saturday at 11:am at the Pinal Mountain Elks Lodge.
Memorial donations may be made to The Apache Shrine Club’s “Clothe a Child” program.

Stringfever Bolero

Public Meetings About US 60 Superior to Globe

The Arizona Department of Transportation has started a study to identify alternatives for improving US 60 between Superior and Globe. Open houses have been scheduled to gather input from the public. Each public meeting will be from 5:30 until 7:30pm with a project overview presentation at 6:pm.

The Globe meeting will be on Wednesday, June 3 in the Globe High School auditorium. Meetings have also been scheduled for Superior and Gold Canyon.

Bill Would Let Offenders Skip Traffic School

The Arizona Daily Star reports that a provision buried in the package of bills for the 2010 budget would let motorists who receive traffic tickets skip traffic school by simply paying a flat fee. Motorists involved in criminal traffic offenses--like drunk driving—would not be eligible. Neither would those who get into accidents that cause serious injury or death.

Arizona law says most motorists can either plead innocent and go to trial, plead guilty and pay a fine, or pay to go to defensive driving classes. The traffic school option means no points against the motorist’s drivers license and the violation is not reported to insurance companies. The new proposal would allow traffic offenders to just pay for the class and walk away.

The plan cleared its first hurdle last week when the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a series of changes to the criminal code.

Committee Chairman Russell Pearce says there’s no evidence that defensive driving schools actually do any good.

Memorial Day Observances

The Town of Miami is having a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday at 9:am in Veterans Memorial Park on Sullivan Street.

The American Legion Post and the VFW Post will hold a Memorial Day observance on Monday at 11:am at the Gila County Courthouse. Following the program they will serve food at 1:pm at the American Legion Post on South Broad Street.

Globe Library Closed for Holiday Weekend

The Globe Public Library will be closed Saturday through Monday for the Memorial Day holiday. The library will reopen Tuesday at 10:am.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday morning on Copper Hills Road. One driver was cited for failure to control a vehicle.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 45 year old Richard Marin after a domestic disturbance yesterday afternoon in Six Shooter Canyon. Marin was charged with domestic violence, disorderly conduct and assault.

Globe Police arrested 50 year old Robert Steele yesterday morning at the bridge off of Broad Street for being a public nuisance and for false reporting to law enforcement.

18 year old Zachary Cross was arrested for shoplifting at the Express Stop on East Ash. He was also charged with shoplifting that occurred earlier in the week at Dave’s Fast Stop.

Officers are investigating a theft from a vehicle that occurred in the Judy’s Cook House parking lot.

Only One

Gila Early Education Partnership at Globe Library on Friday

Gila Early Education Partnership will be at the Globe Public Library tomorrow (Friday) from 10:am until Noon. They’ll have books for children age 3 and younger, literacy information for parents, and provide a healthy snack.

Arizona Gas Prices Rising, But Still Lowest in the Nation

Gasoline prices across the state and the nation continue to rise, but Arizona still has the lowest prices in the nation. The statewide average is between $2.13 and $2.14 a gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. That’s an increase of more than 12 cents from last week. The national average increased more than six cents to $2.33 a gallon. Globe-Miami prices are around $2.12.

AAA says Arizona motorists are paying $1.47 less per gallon than they were this time last year. In fact, the last time prices were this low around Memorial Day was in 2004.

Next Pinto Valley Project Blasts Scheduled for Next Week

The next blasts on the US 60 Pinto Valley project are scheduled for next week. They will be on Tuesday and on Thursday (May 28) from 10:am until noon. Drivers can expect delays of up to 30 minutes following each blast. There may be brief delays at other times during those days.

Work will stop today (Thursday) at 2:pm for the Memorial Day weekend and will resume Tuesday morning at 5:30.

Kirkpatrick Revives Land Swap

US Representative Ann Kirkpatrick introduced legislation yesterday (Wednesday) that throws her support behind a controversial underground copper mine near Superior. Kirkpatrick’s support is considered vital to the project because she represents the area where the mine would be developed and because she is a Democrat. The mine already has the support of Republican Senators John McCain and John Kyl, but it needs bipartisan support in order to be approved by the Democratic-controlled Congress.

The proposed federal land exchange that is necessary for the development of the mine stalled two years ago after Kirkpatrick’s predecessor--Rick Renzi--became involved in a corruption scandal. It has also been blocked by environmental and Native American protests. The land contains cultural and religious sites that are sacred to the San Carlos Apaches and other Native American tribes.

Kirkpatrick says that for her it all comes down to jobs. She says the project could bring as many as 1,000 well paying jobs to the area.

Obituary

Michael James Thomas of Apache Junction passed away Monday at Cobre Valley Community Hospital. He was 57. He is survived by his companion; his son; 2 brothers; 2 sisters, including Janet Lucero of Globe; and 3 grandchildren.
Visitation for Michael Thomas will be Monday from 1 to 3:pm at Lamont Mortuary. A graveside service will be held Tuesday at 11:am at National Memorial Cemetery of Phoenix.

Road Work Near CVCH Postponed Because of Weather

Chip sealing scheduled for today (Thursday) on Hospital Drive and yesterday’s scheduled consruction work on Hope Lane have been postponed until next week because of the weather.

Police Log

A 31 year old Gila County Jail inmate was arrested yesterday for assaulting a detention officer. Brandon Turner of Phoenix was charged with aggravated assault and threats and intimidation.

65 year old Joseph Raymond was arrested at a traffic stop for possession of drug paraphernalia and carrying a concealed weapon.

22 year old Iroquois Sullivan was arrested on a warrant for possession of a dangerous drug and driving under the influence of drugs.

Globe Police arrested 42 year old Christopher Brice on a warrant for possesion of drug paraphernalia.

An officer took a report of a theft of money from a local fast food business.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a burglary that occurred at Miami High School.

Obituaries

Cleland Conwell of Globe passed away Monday at Odyssey Healthcare in Mesa. He was 92.
The funeral for Cleland Conwell will be Saturday at 10:am at Miles Funeral Services Globe.

Former Globe-Miami resident Rosita Lopez of Lakeside passed away Monday at Tall Pines in Show Low. She was 84.
Visitation for Rosita Lopez will be Monday at 9:am at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and the funeral is at 10:00.

Don't Know Why Y Didn't Come

Asarco Settles With Arizona and Other States

The Arizona Daily Star reports that court settlements with the Asarco copper mining company will result in cleanups of three Arizona abandoned mine sites. Asarco has agreed to pay the state $23 million for the cleanups.

A second settlement will give the state ownership of four miles of land along the San Pedro River, allowing the Game and Fish Department to protect endangered wildlife there. The land is valued at about $4 million. It is meant to compensate the state for contamination of the river from nearby mines.

Two of the abandoned mine sites are near Patagonia. The other is in Sacaton, northwest of Casa Grande.

Arizona is one of 11 states involved in settlements with Asarco, filed last month in US Bankruptcy Court in Texas.

Chip Sealing on Hospital Drive

Chip sealing will be done tomorrow (Thursday) near Cobre Valley Community Hospital on Hospital Drive and from Hospital Drive to US 60. Flagmen will be at the site and there will be detours. Gila County Public Works Division asks you to be alert for traffic pattern changes.

Lee Kornegay Awards Assembly

Instead of eighth grade promotion exercises, Lee Kornegay Junior High School is having an awards ceremony tomorrow (Thursday) at 9:am. The assembly will honor both seventh and eighth grade students.

Walmart Agrees to Monitor Prices

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard has announced a $1 million settlement with Walmart.

Between 2001 and 2006, Walmart paid more than $450,000 in fines for failing price accuracy inspections conducted by the Arizona Department of Weights and Measures. Goddard brought the lawsuit in 2006 to require the company to fix the problems that led to the failed inspections and to provide more reliable pricing for consumers.

Walmart has agreed to appoint an independent monitoring company to conduct price accuracy and price posting inspections at 40 of its Arizona stores every year for three years. If a Walmart store fails an inspection, it will pay the state a fine and the store will be re-inspected until it passes.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 21 year old Edgardo Martinez at a traffic stop yesterday. Martinez had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear on charges of hindering prosecution, and possession and use of marijuana. Two juveniles were given referrals for possession of marijuana.

68 year old Norman Medlin was arrested yesterday for being disorderly at a business on Hospital Drive.

Miami Police arrested 46 year old David Stenhouse for criminal damage and disorderly conduct/domestic violence.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy took a missing person report at a residence on Mayss Street. John P. Lyman hasn’t been seen since Monday at the Diversion Dam.

Hope Lane Closed Today for Construction

Gila County Public Works announces that Hope Lane will be closed today (Wednesday) until 4:00 between Russell Road and the hospital. They ask that you please be careful and obey posted traffic signs when traveling near the construction area..

Boulder to Birmingham

Study Shows Only 51% of Arizona Disadvantaged Students Have True Opportunity to Learn

The Schott Foundation for Public Education has released a state by state education study on the opportunities that historically disadvantaged students have to learn. The study measures the chance such students have to be in a school that provides a quality education leading to proficiency in reading and math and high graduation rates. It shows that only 51% of Arizona minority and low income students have a true opportunity to learn when compared to white, non-Latino students.

The study also ranks Arizona 48th in the nation when the access to students’ opportunity to learn is combined with the overall education proficiency in the state (based on eighth grade NAEP reading scores).

The Schott Foundation study found that 84% of the states fail to provide disadvantaged students with an opportunity to learn. Arizona is near the bottom.

White House Calls for New Mileage Standards

Today the White House is issuing new national greenhouse gas and fuel economy standards for cars and trucks. They raise fuel efficiency targets to 35.5 miles per gallon for new passenger vehicles and light trucks by 2016. That’s four years earlier than what was required in the 2007 energy bill.

The stricter standards are similar to those of the state of California, which has been fighting for a waiver from federal law in order to set its own guidelines.

Environmentalists say the new rules will help limit global warming.

Miami Memorial Day Ceremony

The Town of Miami will have a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday (May 25) at 9:am at Veterans Memorial Park. Miami veterans will be recognized during the ceremony.

Kirkpatrick Recommends Transportation Projects for District One

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick has announced the projects she has recommended for consideration by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Every six years, Congress considers legislation to authorize surface transportation improvements, including highways, public transit and rail.

Kirkpatrick is requesting $535 million for 35 projects in Arizona’s District One. The requests include $23 million for the Tonto Creek Bridge construction.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday afternoon at Broad and Oak Streets.

There were no injuries in an accident yesterday evening at Ash and South Hill Street.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 68 year old Norman Medlin yesterday morning at a residence on Woodward. Medlin was charged with aggravated harassment/domestic violence, assault, burglary, criminal trespass, and threats and intimidation.

30 year old Rhea Tucker was arrested for assault/domestic violence.

Globe Police were dispatched to a vacant residence on Hill Street where two people were seen entering the residence. 57 year old Charles Mull and 51 year old Lorraine Belkna were arrested for felony criminal trespass.

Two students were referred to juvenile probation after an incident yesterday afternoon at Globe High School.

Globe Police are investigating a shoplifting that occurred shortly after midnight at the Circle K on Santee.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft from a residence on McKinney.

Canyon Fire assisted with the removal of a rattlesnake from a yard on San Carlos Drive.

Motorcyclist Killed in Highway 60 Accident

A motorcyclist from out of state was killed last night (Monday) in a traffic accident on Highway 60 near Enterprise Car Rental. Globe PD says some metal debris in the road caused one car to have a flat tire. The motorcyclist either tried to avoid the debris or the other car and hit the sidewalk. He was hit by the car behind him. The accident is under investigation.

Toss the Feathers

FTC Tries to Stop Robo-Calls

The Federal Trade Commission is asking a federal court to shut down a telemarketing campaign that is responsible for up to 1 billion robo-calls that tell people the warranty on their cars is about to expire. The calls target people regardless of whether they have warranties or even own cars.

According to the papers the FTC filed with the court, the robo-calls have prompted tens of thousands of complaints from consumers who are either on the Do Not Call Registry or have asked not to be called. Consumers received the calls at home, work, and on their cell phones, sometimes several times in one day. Businesses, government offices and even 911 dispatchers have received the calls.

Those who answer the calls are told to “press one” to speak to a “warranty specialist.” The “specialists” then try to sell consumers a service contract for between $2,000 and $3,000, which they falsely portray as an extension of the vehicle’s original warranty.

The sellers of these extended auto warranties have allegedly taken in more than $10 million.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at 10:00. The agenda includes possible approval of a Weatherization Low Income Assistance Contract with the Arizona Department of Commerce Energy Office. The agreement includes $1,700,000 in federal stimulus funds.

HDMS Parent Forum

High Desert Middle School presents an open forum tomorrow night (Tuesday) for parents to ask questions about the school. Principal Steve Estatico will also talk about some of the changes to the policies and schedule for the next school year.

The forum is from 6 until 7:pm in the school auditorium.

Lightning and Winds Increase Wildfire Danger

Arizona weather officials say there is a high potential for a significant wildfire because of high winds and possible lightning strikes without rain.

Parts of Gila County and the Tonto National Forest should see thunderstorms with lightning but little or no rain. Winds are expected to reach 40 mph.

If lightning ignites dry vegetation, high winds could cause the fire to grow out of control.

Temperatures are expected to reach near record highs.

Police Log

Globe Fire Department, Canyon Fire and Southwest Gas responded to a report of a strong odor of gas from a residence in Miami. The gas leak was located and repaired.

Globe Police and EMS responded to Horizon Human Services late yesterday afternoon to an assault victim. 23 year old Charles Long was arrested for aggravated assault.

Officers went to a residence on Hunter Drive yesterday morning to serve a warrant. Three people were arrested. 44 year old Laura Molina had a warrant for failure to comply on a charge of possession of drug paraphernalia. 39 year old Timothy Milam was arrested on a child support warrant. 47 year old Manuel Benavidez was charged with hindering prosecution.

Miami Police arrested 33 year old Paul Burnham for assault/domestic violence.

22 year old Iroquois Sullivan was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Roosevelt Lake deputies responded to the Cholla Bay campground after a call about a man shooting at other campers. A 50 year old Phoenix man was arrested for disorderly conduct with a weapon.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 51 year old James Anderson Saturday night on a warrant for probation violation for resisting arrest.

Saturday night Globe Police received a call about a man trying to kick in a door at a residence on Yuma Street. 45 year old Manuel Gaona was arrested for criminal damage and taken to the Gila County Jail.

Officers are investigating a domestic disturbance at Pinal Mountain Apartments; an assault that occurred on Crestwood; and shoplifting of beer at Dave’s Fast Stop.

The Gila Coumty Sheriff’s Office is investigating a domestic disturbance on Montecito Drive; shots fired in the Silver Hills area; a stolen vehicle from a residence on Kachina Trail; and slashed tires to a vehicle at a residence on Braley Street.

Obituary

Martha F. Villegas of Globe passed away Thursday at Banner Gardens Hospice House in Mesa. She was 77.
Visitation for Martha Villegas will be Wednesday at 9:am at Holy Angels Catholic Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and the funeral is at 10:00.

Best Game Ever

Best Game Ever from ImprovEverywhere on Vimeo.

AG Announces Settlement with Michelin

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard has announced a $375,000 muti-state settlement with the Michelin tire company. The settlement has to do with claims Michelin made in its advertising of fuel efficient tires.

The states allege that the advertisements did not adequately disclose that the savings were based solely on savings in fuel costs, not the cost of the tires. The states’ review of Michelin’s own studies also found that in some classes of tires, a Michelin tire was not the most fuel efficient.

The investigation did not question the safety or quality of Michelin tires.

Michelin cooperated with the investigation but denies any wrongdoing.

Arizona’s portion of the settlement will be $22,500, which will be used for consumer fraud prevention.

Miami Council Meets Monday

The Miami Town Council meets Monday at 6:30pm. The agenda includes a bid proposal for the replacment of the air conditioning units at the Miami Senior Center.

The Council will also consider adopting a resolution of support for a Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center to be located in Southern Gila County.

Globe Council Public Hearing and Regular Meeting

Globe City Council meets Monday at 6:pm, following a Public Hearing at 5:45. The Public Hearing is to discuss proposed use of grant funds from the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

The Regular meeting agenda includes a presentation about the preliminary design contents of the City of Globe’s proposed Web site.

New Rules for Airline Travelers

The first phase of new Transportation Security Administration rules go into effect today (May 15). When airline passengers book a flight, they are now required to give their full name exactly as it appears on their driver’s license or other travel ID.

Starting August 15, passengers will also be asked for their date of birth and gender when making reservations. The federal agency says this will boost security by making it easier to match identities and avoid mismatching a passenger to a similar name on the “no fly” list.

Republican Club Meets Saturday

The Cobre Valley Republican Club meets tomorrow (Saturday) morning at 9:00 at the Country Kitchen. They’ll talk about the upcoming Community Flag Day celebration. Everyone is invited.

Old Appliance Discard Event at Landfill

The Russell Gulch Landfill is having a “free day” for old appliances tomorrow (Saturday) from 6:am until 3:30pm. This includes refrigerators, washers, dish washers, dryers, portable trash compactors and water heaters. Other metal items will also be accepted.

The County will handle freon removal from the applianaces, so please do not tamper with the freon lines. All other debris will be at the regular price.

Obituary

Deborah Jane Hallock Fenn of Phoenix passed away Saturday. She was 58. She is survived by her husband John; her son and her sister.
The funeral for Deborah Fenn is this morning (Friday) at 11:00 at Miles Funeral Services Miami.

Josephine Ellen Shedd passed away Wednesday at Heritage Health Care Center.
The funeral for Josephine Shedd will be Sunday at 2:30pm at Griffiths Mortuary in Kearny.

My Baby Just Cares for Me

Interior Department Announces Arizona Stimulus Projects

The US Interior Department says it will spend $319 million in economic stimulus money on more than 240 Arizona projects.

$180 million of that money will go to the Bureau of Indian Affairs for the construction of schools, libraries and modest energy efficient homes, as well as road and bridge maintenance.

More than $15 million goes to the Bureau of Land Management. Some of that will go to the remediation of abandoned mines.

Nearly $22 million will go to National Park Service projects in Arizona. These include the correction of drainage deficiencies on trails to protect historic archeological sites at the Casa Grande Ruins National Monument.

Relay for Life is This Friday Night Through Saturday Morning

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life takes place tomorrow night (Friday) through Saturday morning at Harbison Field.

Teams of local citizens will get together at 4:pm. They will walk until 8:am to raise money and to raise awareness about cancer.

Cancer survivors will walk or wheelchair the first lap beginning at 6:00. The highlight of the event is the Luminaria Ceremony held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember those who have lost their battle against cancer.

Those who attend are requested to bring a canned food item. Ensure drinks are especially appreciated because that is what cancer victims use to build up their strength. The canned items will be used instead of sand to hold the luminaria bags down.

Transportation Board Expected to Approve First Economic Recovery Projects

The State Transportation Board is expected to formally award six transportation contracts at this week’s meeting. The meeting is tomorrow (Friday) at 9:am in Flagstaff. The projects are the first of 41 statewide projects moving forward with the help of federal stimulus funds. Once awarded, the projects are expected to start construction this summer. They include shoulder widening and safety improvements on State Route 87 between Payson and Pine in Gila County.

The Transportation Board meeting will also include a discussion—but no action—on the state’s five year highway construction program.

Gas Prices Jump 8 Cents a Gallon

AAA Arizona says the average gasoline price in Arizona has increased more than 8 cents over the past week. Arizonans are paying an average of slightly more than $2.01 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline. The national average increased more than 12 cents to more than $2.26 a gallon. Globe-Miami prices are around $1.97 a gallon.

The price of crude oil climbed to a six-month high of $60 a barrel this week before settling in the high $50 range. Some retailers are preparing to shift to the federally mandated summer fuel blend which is cleaner burning but more expensive to produce.

New Pinto Valley Project Work Hours

Starting Monday, work hours on the US 60 Pinto Valley project will be from 5:30am to 5:30pm Monday through Friday. No blasting is scheduled for the next several days. Drivers may experience 10 to 15 minute delays as heavy equipment moves through the work area.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 21 year old Christopher Castaneda on warrants for failure to appear on charges of possession of marijuana, burglary and aggravated assault.

Officers contacted a group of juveniles in an abandoned building near Broad and Mesquite. They were found to be in possession of marijuana. 18 year old Michael Burshia was arrested and booked into the Gila County Jail. The juveniles were issued juvenile referrals and taken back to their high school.

Three juveniles were referred to juvenile probation for shoplifting at a business on East Ash Street.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 39 year old Patrick Hawksworth on warrants for failure to appear on charges of possession of marijuana and criminal damage.

A deputy took a report of a theft from a vehicle on Remington Road.

Obituary

Horace H. Packard passed away Sunday at his home in Globe. He was 60. He is survived by his son Jimi; his daughter Dianna Morrow; his sister Joella Moyers; his brother “Andy” Packard; and 9 grandchildren.
Visitation for “Junior” Packard will be Saturday at 10:am at Lamont Mortuary. The funeral is Saturday at 11:am.
The family requests donations be made to Lamont Mortuary to help with funeral expenses.

Mommy's Special Day

Mommy's Special Day from Johnny Clark on Vimeo.

US House Passes Credit Cardholders Bill

The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that would protect consumers from some credit card practices. The House’s Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights would prevent punitive interest rate increases unless an account is more than 30 days late. It would also require credit card companies to give 45 days notice for interest rate increases. And it would limit late and over-limit fees and allow consumers to set “hard” limits so purchases would not go through if they push cards over the limit.

A similar bill is pending in the US Senate. There will probably be changes before a compromise bill goes to President Obama, who says he would sign such legislation if it passes.

Credit provider lobbyists are expected to try to dilute the bill.

Globe Lions Club

Globe Lions Club will hear a presentation from Resolution Copper tomorrow night (Thursday) at 6:pm at the Country Kitchen.

The Lions Club reminds you that there are several drop off points in the area for used eyeglasses. You can bring them to the Country Kitchen, Copper Rim School office, Copper Mountain Inn, Heritage Health Care Center, Globe Post Office, Globe City Hall, the Globe Public Library, the Salvation Army Thrift Store, the Claypool Post Office, Palace Pharmacy and Dr. Gustavson’s office.

GCC Board Meets Thursday

The Gila County Community College District Governing Board is holding a special public meeting tomorrow (Thursday) at 3:pm by ITV in Gila Pueblo Campus Room 522.

Brewer Announces Forestry Funding

Governor Jan Brewer has announced that nearly $8 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money has been awarded to the state by the US Forest Service for hazardous fuels reduction and biomass projects. Governor Brewer says the money will help Arizona economically by creating jobs, and environmentally by reducing wildfire risk.

Obituary

Aileen Phillips Gibson of Miami passed away Saturday at Copper Mountain Inn. She was 90. She is survived by her daughter; her son Frank and her brother Reed Phillips of Central Heights; 8 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren and many great great grandchildren.
Visitation for Aileen Gibson will be tomorrow (Thursday) from 5 to 8:pm at Lamont Mortuary. The funeral and interment will be private.
Memorial donations may be made to Copper Mountain Inn.

Police Log

One person was air lifted to a Valley hospital after a one vehicle rollover accident yesterday morning on Copper Hills Road.

There was a two vehicle accident last night at Third and Ash Streets. One driver was cited for failure to stop at a red light.

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday afternoon in the area of Kaiser Crossing.

Officers were dispatched to a residence on Lawrence Street yesterday after a homeowner called to report that her ex-husband was outside breaking things and being disorderly. Officers contacted 48 year old Bradley Thyrion who had an outstanding warrant on a charge of attempted leaving the scene of an accident. The person who called the police—49 year old Patrisha Perez-Chiono-- had an outstanding warrant for failure to appear on charges of theft and fraudulent schemes.

A Globe High School student was found to be in possession marijuana. The juvenile was referred to the Gila County Juvenile Probation Department and released to a guardian.

57 year old Charles Mull was arrested for shoplifting at Safeway and for threats and intimidation.

A woman reported that her 16 year old son had been assaulted at Globe High School by two other juveniles.

Officers are investigating a stolen vehicle from a residence on Hackney.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of a theft at Arrowhead Mobile Home Park and thefts from vehicles on Remington Road.

Heavenly Day

Patty Griffin - Oh Heavenly Day from Artists Den on Vimeo.

Arizona's Holiday Travel Expected to Decline

AAA predicts less travel on Arizona highways over the Memorial Day weekend, even though most of the nation can expect an increase in travel this year. This is the first time that the auto club has data specific to Arizona. About 760,000 Arizonans are expected to travel 50 or more miles from home over the holiday weekend. That’s a decline of about 2.5%.

Nationwide, more than 32 million Americans will take to the highways, an increase of 1.5%. AAA says Arizona’s decline can be attributed to the recession, which has hit Arizona harder than other states.

The cost of travel will be less this year, especially the price of gasoline. Motorists are paying about $1.50 less per gallon compared to this time last year.

Planning Meeting for Summer Reading Program

A planning meeting for the Globe Library’s Summer Reading Program volunteers will be held in the library community room tomorrow (Wednesday) at 5:pm. Ideas are needed for stories, songs, games and crafts.

The Summer Reading Program will run for four weeks in June and July on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. The theme is "Be creative @ your library."

Globe School Board Meets Wednesday

Globe School Board meets tomorrow (Wednesday) at 6:pm at the Mofford Activity Center. The agenda includes approval of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Globe School District and other local schools for participation and support for the College Preparatory Academy. Other items to be approved include graduation requirements and a revision of the 2008-2009 budget.

Kirkpatrick's Staff Office Hours Wednesday

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick’s staff hosts open office hours again tomorrow (Wednesday) from 10 until 4 at the Gila County Courthouse.

Democratic Club Meets Wednesday

The Globe-Miami Democratic Club meets tomorrow (Wednesday) at Noon at Joe’s Broad Street Grill. Speakers will discuss unifying Globe-Miami Schools. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Tonto Fire Restrictions Begin May 14

Fire restrictions go into effect for the Tonto National Forest at 8:am Thursday. Drought conditions and high temperatures have caused fire officials to prohibit most types of fire or fire causing activities across the entire Tonto National Forest. Restrictions also apply to smoking outside of a cleared area, operating internal combustion power tools or equipment with open flames. Use of petroleum fueled stoves, lanterns and heating devices are allowed.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 26 year old Rachel Hernandez early this morning for aggravated DUI.

Last night Gila County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 68 year old Norman Medlin for disorderly conduct. Medlin became disorderly when deputies contacted him after receiving several 911 hangups from his residence on Woodward Street when he didn’t need assistance.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of stolen prescriptions from a residence on Alberta Street.

Globe Police are investigating a theft report taken at a business on Hospital Drive and a report of telephone harassment taken at a business on North Broad Street.

Obituaries

Rita Mae Cronin passed away Friday. She was 83.
Visitation for Rita Cronin will be tomorrow (Wednesday) at 9:am at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 9;30 and Mass is at 10:00.

Fredrick Lee Crow of Miami passed away Saturday at Heritage Health Care Center. He was 72. He is survived by his wife Mary; his sister; his daughters Julie Mercer, Debbie Spitler and Lois Carter; his son Guy Peterson; 8 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service for Fred Crow will be held Thursday at 11:am at Pinal Mountain Elks Lodge.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Pinal Mountain Elks.

Frankie Marie Andrews of Globe passed away Friday at Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa. She was 77. She is survived by her husband James; her daughters Jamey Loborine, Tami Lopez and Teri Berumen; 14 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren and 22 great great grandchildren.
Visitation for Frankie Andrews will be Thursday at Noon at Miles Funeral Services Globe. The funeral is at 1:00.

Sita Sings the Blues

Sita Sings the Blues is a delightful animated film that tells an ancient Sanskript epic with an American jazz age soundtrack. The story behind the story could be a preview of the future of independent film distribution and copyright issues.

You can download the entire film here or stream it live on Google.

The animator--Nina Paley--says copyright laws often prevent independent filmakers from having their films released.

Much of Sita's soundtrack is the music of 1920's jazz singer Annette Hanshaw. The copyright on Hanshaw's recordings was never renewed, but in the US at least, elements of the work remain protected. At first the rights holders wanted more than $200,000 before Paley could release the film. They eventually reached an agreement where she would pay them $50,000 and then release as many as 5,000 copies of Sita on DVD. Promotional copies would be exempt.

So Paley is making Sita available for free. (A promotion.)

However, fans can help Paley recover her costs by making a donation at Questioncopyright.org.

Read the entire story here or go to SitaSingstheBlues.com.

First Class Stamps Now 44 Cents

The price of a first class stamp goes up two more cents, effective today (May 11). The stamps are now 44 cents each. This is the third straight year rates have gone up in May under a new system that allows annual increases as long as they don’t exceed the rate of inflation for the year before.

Even with this added income, the Postal Service still could run out of money by the end of the year. Much first class mail is being diverted to the Internet and the recession is keeping businesses from sending their usual volume of advertising.

The Postal Service does not get a taxpayer subsidy. It lost $2.8 billion last year. Postmaster General John Potter has asked Congress for permision to reduce mail delivery to five days a week.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets tomorrow morning (Tuesday) at 10:00. The agenda includes possible Board approval of an architectural services contract that would provide design, construction drawings and bid specifications for the new Gila County Jail Women’s Dormitory in Globe.

SR 77 Weekday Closures Extended Through July

The Arizona Department of Transportation has extended the weekday closures on State Route 77 between Globe and Winkelman. Blasting operations have been extended through July because extra time is needed to excavate the rough terrain and immense amount of rock. Once the blasting is complete, the roadway will need to be repaired and replaced.

SR 77 is closed from 6:am until 6:pm Mondays through Thursdays and from 6 to 3:pm on Fridays. Expect nightime and weekend delays up to 30 minutes while crews are hauling materials.

SR 77 will be open for Memorial Day holiday travel on Friday, May 22 at 2:pm until 8:am Tuesday, May 26.

Miami Receives Cleanup Grant

The Environmental Protection Agency has awarded a $200,000 brownfields cleanup grant to the Town of Miami. The money will be used to clean up the Fitzpatrick/Barcon site at 53 Keystone Avenue. The property is contaminated with hazardous materials used in the construction of the site. Since its purchase in 1909, the facility has served a wide range of purposes, including a saloon and rooming house, storage facility, and senior and youth centers.

Grant funds will also be used to provide health, safety and environmental services to area residents.

Miami Council Meets Tonight

Miami Town Council meets tonight (Monday) at 6:30, following a Workshop at 6:15 and a Public Hearing at 6:00. The Public Hearing is about the use of Community Development Block Grant funds.

During the Regular Meeting, the Council will consider the Underage Drinking Social Host and Noisy Assembly Ordinance submitted by the Copper Basin Youth Partnership.

The Council will consider purchasing a security system for the Miami Memorial Library.

The agenda also includes discussion and possible action on establishing a summer pool rate.

Police Log

A small Piper airplane crashed yesterday afternoon at the end of the runway at Cutter Airport. The pilot and 2 passengers were airlifted to Valley hospitals.

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday afternoon at Oak and Broad Street. One driver was cited for failure to control her vehicle.

There were no injuries in an accident a short while later at Carico and Broad Street. A driver was cited for failure to yield at a stop sign.

An accident Saturday evening on Highway 60 near the Drive In resulted in unknown injuries. A driver was cited for failure to control her vehicle to avoid an accident.

A brush fire was quickly put out by Globe Fire Department Saturday afternoon in the area of Highway 70 and Hunter Drive.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 38 year old Manuel Casillas after a domestic disturbance at a residence on New Street. Casillas was charged with assault and resisting arrest.

Saturday night a 24 year old Mesa man was charged with aggravated assault on an officer at the Gila County Jail, along with charges of criminal damage and escape.

25 year old Justin Bryant was arrested yesterday on a warrant for failure to comply on a DUI charge.

Miami Police arrested 45 year old Tracy Rodriguez for criminal damage.

31 year old Daniel Demboski was arrested for possession of marijuana.

24 year old Raphael Coppen was arrested on warrants for disorderly conduct and threats and intimidation.

Globe Police arrested 27 year old Michael Fuentes at a traffic stop last night on outstanding DUI warrants.

42 year old Annett Kannon was arrested Saturday for telephone harassment.

57 year old Charles Mull was arrested Saturday night for criminal damage that occurred in the area of Halby Court.

Officers are investigating a burglary at Cobre Valley Glass; a burglary at a business on East Ash; and a theft at the Swap Meet.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft of power tools from a residence at Ice House Canyon.

Globe Man Charged with Attempted Murder

A 23 year old Globe man was arrested last night (Sunday) for attempted first degree murder. Gila County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a report of shots fired in the area of Pueblo and Hopi. Witnesses said that after an argument, David Benthall went to his home, got a handgun and shot at the victim. Nobody was injured. Benthall was also charged with possession of prescription drugs and theft of a firearm.

Opposition to Land Exchange

The Apache Moccasin reports that the Retired Miners Coalition of Superior has joined with the San Carlos Apache Tribe in its opposition to the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act. The group says they are concerned that the town of Superior could collapse if the block cave mining operations proceed without proper administrative review by the Federal government.

Meanwhile a forum was held May 2 in North Carolina about the potential environmental, cultural, and spiritual effects of the proposed mining operations. More than 20 organizations were represented at the meeting, where a delegation from the San Carlos Apache Tribe gave a presentation. Organizers of the forum say that the Congressional bill allows Resolution Copper to avoid the environmental, cultural and historical preservation studies required by the National Historic Preservation Act. They say they will focus their efforts on the protection of the Oak Flat/Apache Leap landscape as an important part of Apache religion.

Most Arizona politicians and business leaders support the land exchange bill, saying the operation will provide thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in tax revenue.