Tuesday, June 30, 2009

The Time of My Life

Audit Shows CPS Deficiencies

A state audit of Child Protective Services says the agency has failed to investigate complaints of abuse in group homes and treatment centers within the required time frame.

The Arizona Daily Star reports that the audit also found record-keeping gaps that allowed treatment center employees with substantiated complaints of child abuse get new jobs in group homes, where they committed further abuse.

State law requires CPS to complete an investigation at a group care facility within 21 days and enter their findings into a database. The Auditor General found that since 2007, CPS completed its investigations on time in only 4 out of 147 cases. More than half of the reports took another one to six months to complete.

The Department of Economic Security oversees CPS. They say they agree with the findings and will make changes to fix the problems.

Interior Secretary Fast Tracks Solar Plans

Photo:ASU

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says the federal government is going to fast track plans to build solar power generating plants in Arizona and five other Western states.

Salazar says the government is setting aside 1,000 square miles of Bureau of Land Management property. He calls the 24 tracts of land Solar Energy Study Areas. He says the goal is to speed the process of tapping the sun’s energy to power homes, businesses and industries.

CVCH To Be Tobacco-Free

Starting tomorrow (July 1), Cobre Valley Community Hospital will be tobacco free. No tobacco use of any kind will be permitted on hospital property—inside or outside. This includes the elimination of designated areas outside where employees, patients and visitors are currently allowed to use tobacco products.

Cobre Valley Hospital Community Relations Coordinator Jane Allen says tobacco use in and around hospitals poses health and safety risks. She says this is not an attempt to force anyone to quit smoking. It’s an attempt by the hospital to show its commitment to healthy living.

Image:CVCH

Police Log

One person was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries after an accident yesterday morning at Third and Ash Streets. One car was towed and a driver was cited for a stop light violation.

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday afternoon at Main and Highway 60.

Globe Fire Department quickly contained an electrical fire in a fuse box yesterday evening at a residence on 9th Street.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office received a report of found stolen property. Parts were found from a dune buggy that was reported stolen on June 19. 33 year old Michael Rivera was arrested for theft and possession of stolen property.

Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a break in at a residence at Holiday Hills Mobile Home Park and a report of telephone harassment taken at a residence in Ice House Canyon.

Globe Police are investigating a report of a burglary at Copper Country Mobile Home Park.

Monday, June 29, 2009

AHRQ Releases Health Quality Data

Photo:piperreport.com

The federal Agency for Healthcare Researh and Quality has released its annual state-by-state report. The State Snapshots are an interactive Web tool that analyzes health care quality for all 50 states and the Disrict of Columbia.

Arizona ranks sixth in the nation for its low number of deaths from breast cancer. But Arizona is 50th for its low percentage on non-institutionalized, high risk adults with diabetes who had a flu shot in the last 12 months.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors holds a Special Meeting and Work Session tomorrow morning (Tuesday) at 10:am.

The Work Session includes a presentation of potential facilities projects. The Supervisors will then visit proposed project sites, including the site of the Gila County Jail women’s dormitory, the WIC program building site at the Central Heights facility, and County-owned property next to Cobre Valley Community Hospital.

US 60 Paving Project Begins July 6

The Arizona Department of Transportation will begin a project on July 6 to repave 7.8 miles of US 60 west of the Salt River Canyon from Timber Mountain to Seneca. A layer of pavement will be removed from the roadway surface and a new layer of pavement plus a layer of rubberized asphalt will be applied.

Work hours will be from 5:am to 7:pm Monday through Friday. One lane of the highway will be open with vehicles allowed to pass through the work zone in alternating directions. Drivers should expect delays of 20 to 30 minutes. The project should be completed in mid-August.

Image:ADOT

Miami Working to Raise Funds to Fix Sewer System

Miami Mayor Chuy Canizales has issued a press release concerning the town’s wastewater collector system. A recent inspection reported that the system is 100% inadequate.

Canizales says the Water Infrastructure and Finance Authority has approved a $26,000 grant to help fund the required engineering report for possible stimulus funding through the US Department of Agriculture. Gila County has pledged $7500. The Pinal Mountain Sanitation District has been asked to contribute $50,000. Congressman Ed Pastor is working to provide up to $400,000 from his contingency funds to pay for a new grit separator and 6 pumps for the pump station across from Walmart.

The WIFA has asked Miami to consider accepting a $4 million line of credit to help move the town toward qualifying for USDA funds of up to $18 million.

Canizales says the town is solidifying its collection of sewer accounts. It is recommending approval of a rate increase for sewer service in order to meet requirements for stimulus funding to repair the sytem. The new rate for residents would be $32.45.

JBS Swift Expands Beef Recall

JBS Swift Beef Company has expanded its beef recall to include about 380,000 pounds of products because of possible E. coli contamination. A recall last week involved about 41,000 pounds.

The US Department of Agriculture says that all of the beef products were produced on April 21. They are in boxes marked "EST. 969," with a package date of "042109" and a time stamp ranging from "0618" to "1130."

Police Log

One person was flown to a Valley hospital after a one vehicle rollover accident shortly before 1:00 this morning at Albany and Ice House Canyon. The car was towed for a 30 day hold.

A skull was found yesterday afternoon in the area of Carol Springs Mountain.It was partially buried in the bank on the side of a wash. It is not known if it is the skull of a human or an animal. The case is under investigation.

A 70 year old Tucson man was arrested yesterday morning for driving under the influence of drugs after a two vehicle accident with unknown injuries. One car was towed from the scene.

Globe Police arrested 45 year old Martha Garcia for domestic assault after a threat report was taken at a residence on Escudilla Drive.

25 year old Esquiel Flores was arrested after a beer run last night at Dave’s Fast Stop. Flores was charged with DUI, speeding, open container and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. A 17 year old passenger was referred to juvenile authorities for underage consumption and open container.

23 year old Jenna McLendon was arrested early Sunday morning for extreme DUI.

Miami Police arrested 69 year old Theodero Serna on a warrant for threats and intimidation.

54 year old Gary DeMichelis was arrested Saturday night for threats and intimidation.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating criminal damage at the Cobre Valley County Club and a theft at a residence on Marion Canyon

Globe Police are investigating an assault at a residence on Agave and a beer run late Saturday night at the Circle K on Santee.

Obituary

Ernie Singh passed away last week at his home in Miami. He was 40. He is survived by his mother Socorro; 2 sisters; and 3 brothers.
Visitation for “Lupe” Singh will be Wednesday at 9:am at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and the funeral is at 10:00.

Friday, June 26, 2009

GCC Board Supports Pursuit of Local Job
Corps Facility

Photo:JobCorps

The Gila Community College Governing Board has unanimously passed a resolution of support for the Southern Gila County Economic Development Corporation’s pursuit of a Civilian Conservation Center Job Corps facility for Southern Gila County.

Resolutions of support have also been passed by the Miami Town Council, Globe City Council and Gila County Board of Supervisors.

Job Corps is the nation’s largest and most successful residential and educational workforce training program for economically disadvantaged youth.

A Job Corps center could create nearly 100 new jobs and pump as much as $8 million into the local economy.

Gila Community College would partner with the Job Corps to offer a variety of vocational training programs.

'Operation Dry Water' This Weekend

Photo:ODW

Law enforcement officers are cracking down this weekend on recreational boaters found drinking or using drugs while operating their watercraft. Operation Dry Water starts today (Friday) and ends Sunday.

Officers will be conducting checkpoints and watching for boaters whose blood-alcohol content exceeds the national limit of 0.08%.

Image:ODW

AG Announces Settlement with Online Nutrition Company

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard has announced a record settlement of more than $1.3 million with an online nutrition company. The settlement resolves a consumer fraud lawsuit that alleged deceptive online sales prctices by Central Coast Nutraceuticals of Phoenix.

Goddard brought the lawsuit against CCN after receiving hundreds of consumer complaints. In it he alleged that the company used a variety of deceptive tactics to market low cost “risk free trial offers" of health supplements. Consumers complained that they were charged for costly products and services that they did not order. When they tried to contact CCN, they often faced hold times of over an hour and their e-mails never received a responese.

If you believe you were a victim of CCN’s deceptive marketing, you must file a complaint with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office by August 17 to be eligible for restitution from the settlement. If you have already filed a complaint, you will be included in the pool of eligible consumers.

Bill Amendment Aids Local Firefighters

Photo:WBFD

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick has successfully pushed through an amendment to the Homeland Security Department appropriations bill. The amendment provides an additional $10 million in Assistance to Firefighters Grants. The grants help local fire departments pay for new equipment and quality training programs.

The amendment has been endorsed by the National Volunteer Fire Council, the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the Congressional Fire Services Institute. It was included in the Homeland Security bill that passed the House by a vote of 389-37.

Bill to Ban Photo Radar Revived

A state Senate committee has revived a bill that would ban photo radar on Arizona highways. The Arizona Republic reports that the bill was tacked on to a transportation bill that was approved on Thursday. A similar bill passed a committee earlier this year but failed to get a hearing while lawmakers were focusing on the budget.

Last year Arizona lawmakers created the first statewide network of speed enforcement cameras. Police initially planned to set up 100 cameras around the state but stopped after 36 fixed cameras and 42 mobile units.

Swift Recalls 41,000 Pounds of Beef

The JBS Swift Company has recalled about 41,000 pounds of its beef products because of possible E. coli contamination.

A Swift spokesman says the recall is voluntary and no illnesses have been reported.

The US Department of Agriculture says the products were produced on April 21-22 and were shipped to distributors and retailers in Arizona and 12 other states.

The recalled beef is in boxes marked "EST.969" and packaging codes of 042109 or 042209.

They have case codes of 21852,21853, 31852,31853, 33852, 33853, 41853,79852, 79853 0r 90853.

Consumers with questions about the recall may contact the JBS Swift consumer hotline at 1-800-555-7675.

Image:KIA

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident late yesterday morning in the area of Old Oak and Highway 60.

One person was taken to Cobre Valley Community Hospital after a two vehicle accident yesterday afternoon on Highway 60 near the Old Copper Hills Motel. One car was towed from the scene.

23 year old Charles White was arrested for shoplifting last night from the Circle K on Hunter Drive.

Globe Police are investigating a break in at the Globe swimming pool.

Obituary

LeBarty Lee Swift of Bylas passed away last Saturday. He was 29. He is survived by his father Robert; his sisters Roberta Swift, Natalie Anderson, Laurie Cassa; and his brother Arlando Swift.
The wake for LeBarty Swift is tomorrow (Saturday) at 4:pm at Robert swift’s residence. The funeral is Sunday at 1:pm at Bylas miracle Church.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Foster Care Review Board
Needs Volunteers

Photo:VisionsofHope

The Arizona Supreme Court’s Foster Care Review Board is recruiting volunteers for its Gila County Board. There are currently two vacancies.

The Board advises the juvenile court on progress toward achieving a permanent home for children involved in dependency actions and in out of home placement. It meets four times a year to review the cases of children in out of home care in Gila County.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and pass a criminal background check. They will receive two days of training in Phoenix, with travel expenses reimbursed. Six to 8 hours of continuing education is also required each year.

For information go to www.azfcrb.org or call 1-866-320-1959.

Pump Prices Starting to Retreat

After 51 consecutive days of rising gasoline prices, AAA reports that prices are starting to decrease slightly. The statewide Arizona average is just under $2.67 a gallon, an increase of more than two cents since last week. The national average is nearly $2.68. That's a decrease of less than a penny. Here in Globe-Miami, prices are around $2.54.

Since early May, oil and gasoline prices have risen on glimmers of an economic turnaround and pure momentum. But AAA says the climb defied the fundamentals of the market, given the weak state of the global economy, large amounts of existing supply and continued meager demand.

Image:Wiki

CAAG Break-Up Considered But Tabled

The Payson Roundup reports that the Central Arizona Association of Governments has tabled a proposal to form a committee to study the idea of splitting up the organization which represents Pinal and Gila County.

Pinal County Supervisor Bryan Martyn says his county’s rapid growth may have outdated the regional council’s model. Gila County Supervisor Shirley Dawson says the split would harm rural communities.

Pinal County’s population is now estimated at more than 320,000, compared to 52,000 in Gila County.

The Council includes elected officials from both counties and towns within those counties. The executive order that created Arizona’s six regional planning groups has no process for amending the boundaries.

The Council discussed a list of 3 “pros’ and 13 “cons” at its meeting last week. Pros include less travel, no more shared funding and agenda items would be more tailored to the county. Cons include the question of where Gila County would go, and the threat of the two urban regional councils swallowing Pinal County.

Image:MAG

Globe School Board Meets Tonight

The Globe School Board meets tonight (Thursday) at 6:00 at the Mofford Activity Center. The Board will consider reassigning the Superintendent and Supervisor of Facilities and appoint temporary chief administrative officials.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday morning on Highway 60 near Rainwater Auto. The driver struck the guardrail and a speed limit sign after his brakes failed.

Globe Police arrested 27 year old Darcee Phillips for reckless driving at a traffic stop last night in the area of Euclid Avenue.

A juvenile was arrested at Globe Mobile Home Park for reckless burning.

27 year old Jared Warren was arrested during a traffic stop last night for aggravated DUI and driving with a suspended license.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to a residence in the Wheatfilds area last night after a report of an assault that happened at the river. 18 year old Harley Edmiston of Winkelman was charged with aggravated assault on a minor and threats and intimidation.

25 year old Brian Allphin was arrested at a residence in August Hills Mobile Home Park for threats and intimidation.

Yesterday morning the Gila County Task Force stopped a car on Highway 60 for speeding. Eight undocumented aliens were detained for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. A 9 year old girl was detained for Child Protective Services because she was a US citizen.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating criminal damage at a residence in Six Shooter Canyon. A bullet hole was found in the cab of a vehicle.

Globe Police are investigating a non-injury hit and run accident that occurred in the area of Radanovich Drive and a burglary at a residence in the Maple area.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Arizona State Parks Board Seeking Advisory Committee Members

Photo:GatewaytoSedona

The Arizona State Parks Board is accepting applications for 10 openings on four advisory committees. The openings are on the Arizona State Committee on Trails, the Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, the Off Highway Vehicle Advisory Group and the Natural Areas Program Advisory Committee.

The Off Highway Advisory Group represents statewide off highway vehicle opportunities. It also develops education programs that promote resource protection, social responsibility and interagency cooperation.

The Arizona State Committee on Trails represents non-motorized trail interests.

The Historic Preservation Advisory Committee represents historic preservation interests throughout the state.

The Natural Areas Program Advisory Committee advises the State Parks Board on the expenditure of Arizona Heritage Fund money used for acquisition, maintenance and operation of state natural areas. Membership in this advisory committee is limited to scientists or people with experience in the conservation or preserve management fields.

You may download an application at azstateparks.com. The application deadline is Friday, September 25.

Arizona to Receive $22 Million for
Renewable Energy

Photo:treehugger.com

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick announces that the US Energy Department is making more than $22 million available to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency in Arizona. The grant will allow Arizona to establish a revolving loan program for small business owners who are interested in improving energy efficiency or installing solar capicity for their facilities. Kirkpatrick says thse programs will help support Arizona’s renewable energy manufacturerers and bring new green jobs to the state.

Arizona has already received around $5.8 million to help plan its State Energy program. The state will be eligible for $27 million more once it can demonstrate that its efforts to advance renewable energy and energy efficiency have been successful.

GCCC Board Meets Thursday

The Gila County Community College Governing Board meets tomorrow (Thursday) at 3:pm by ITV at Gila Pueblo Campus Room 522.

Blood Drive on July 17

A Blood Drive will be held on Friday, July 17 from 8:30am until 1:pm at the Pinal Mountain Elks. To make an appointment go to bloodhero.com.

All donors in July will be entered in a drawing to win a 2009 Saturn Aura.

Photo:UBS

Lt. 'Swede' Carlson Named Officer of the Quarter

The Gila County Attorney’s Office has named Lt. William “Swede" Carlson as Officer of the Quarter. Lt. Carlson has been with the Gila County Sheriff’s Office since 1999. He has received the Detention Supervisor of the Quarter award and has been selected numerous times to teach and train new cadets and senior staff for the Arizona Detention Academies for the State of Arizona. He is being recognized for his service, professional attitude and assistance to the County Attorney’s Office.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 41 year old George Henry for domestic violence/assault after a disturbance yesterday morning at a residence on North East Street.

46 year old Rubina Romero was arrested for disorderly conduct yesterday after a domestic disturbance in the Escalera area.

23 year old Charles Fee was arrested in connection with a disorderly conduct report taken on Sunday.

33 year old Jayson Hopkins was arrested on a warrant for probation violation.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 24 year old Daniel Kubacki on warrants for possession of marijuana and child support.

Deputies are investigating an assault report taken at a residence in the Dripping Springs area.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

'Safe Sitter' Classes

Photo:CentralBaptistHospital

Gila County Youth Connections is offering a two day “Safe Sitter” class for girls and boys ages 11 to 13 tomorrow (Wednesday) and Thursday.

The Safe Sitter program is a medically accurate program that teaches adolescents how to handle emergencies when caring for younger children. The class is free. Students must bring a sack lunch. Snacks and beverages will be provided.

To register or for information call 402-8517.

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 tomorrow (Wednesday). 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 are 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.

Photo:arizona-vacation-planner.com

Arizona Senate Passes Some, Rejects Others

Photo:tomforst.com

The Arizona Senate has approved a series of bills ranging from a ban on public campaign money to limits on environmental regulations.

The Senate failed to pass a ban on texting while driving, but approved a bill to require motorists to put children ages 5 through 8 in booster seats.

The Senate overwhelmingly rejected a bill to prohibit smoking in a vehicle with child passengers.

A resolution placing a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2010 ballot would ban the use of public money for campaign funding. That would dismantle the public campaign funding system approved by voters in 1998.

The Senate approved a bill that would prohibit any state agency from adopting or enforcing rules for a program on greenhouse gas emissions without authorization by the Legislature. This is a reaction by Republican lawmakers to steps taken by former Governor Janet Napolitano.

A bill was approved that would make it harder to successfully sue emergency medical providers for alleged malpractice.

And the Senate approved a bill that could set the stage for construction of toll highways.

Transportation Board Awards Third Set of Contracts

Photo:FHA

The State Transportation Board has awarded the third set of contracts for federally funded projects to improve Arizona’s highways. This includes a $4.5 million contract for pavement preservation on Highway 60 from the Miami City Limits to McMillan Wash.

The Arizona Department of Transportation says most of the nine projects were well under estimates, producing a cost savings of $2.7 million. The lower-than-expected bids are attributed to the downturn in the economy prompting higher competition for projects.

There are now 25 stimulus-funded projects under contract statewide. Five have already begun construction.

Police Log

Several City of Globe vehicles were burglarized over the weekend at the City Barn. The case is under investigation by Globe PD.

Officers are investigating an assault that occurred at Walmart; an assault involving juveniles at the Globe Community Center; and criminal damage to a residence on East Skyline Drive.

Obituary

Timothy Martin, Jr. of Peridot passed away Thursday at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix. He was 50 He is survived by his sisters Evelyn Rope, Sandra Irving and Karen Martin; and his brothers Patrick and John Sanchez.
The wake for “Wayne” Martin will be Friday at 4:pm at Sandra Irving’s residence. The funeral is Saturday at 2:pm at Burdette Hall in San Carlos.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Federal Board Urges Arizona to Require Booster Seats

Photo:BoosterSeats.us

The National Transportation Safety Board is urging Arizona to take further steps to make sure that children are restrained safely in cars. The Board says that Arizona is one of only three states that don’t require children ages 5 through 8 to use booster seats.

But the Arizona Republic reports that State Senator Linda Gray is pushing a bill that would require all children under 9 to be properly restrained when in a vehicle. Children 5 through 8 would be required to use booster seats.

Booster seats raise a child in a vehicle so that a seat belt fits properly.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets Tuesday at 10:am. The Supervisors will consider a $2,800 Public Awareness Grant Agreement with the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority. They will also consider the application and award confirmation of Help America Vote Act funds.

Miami School Board Meets Tuesday

Miami School Board meets Tuesday at 6:30. The meeting includes a Public Hearing on the proposed 2009-2010 budget and possible approval of that budget.

The agenda also includes consideration and possible action on an Overide Election resolution.

Globe School Board Meets Tuesday

Globe School Board meets Tuesday at 6:pm at the Mofford Activity Center.The agenda includes approval of the proposed budget for the 2009-2010 school year.

An Executive Session follows the Regular Meeting to determine if the Governing Board or a Hearing Officer will conduct a hearing on the recommendation for the expulsion of a student.

Nestle Cookie Dough Recalled

The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to eat raw Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough. There are concerns that the premade dough may be contaminated with E. coli bacteria.

Health officials and food producers are puzzled because cookie dough seems like an unlikely product to contain the bacterium, which lives in the intestines of cattle.

Nestle’s cookie dough is packaged with labels warning people not to eat it raw. But it has become such a popular snack that many ice cream makers have developed a cookie dough flavor.

Since March, 66 people have become sick in 28 states after eating raw cookie dough. 25 people have been hospitalized.

The recall does not include already baked Toll House cookies and other products with Nestle cookie dough ingrdients.

Image:HuffingtonPost

Police Log

One person was taken to Cobre Valley Community Hospital after a single vehicle accident yesterday around noon on Highway 77. The car was towed from the scene.

A patient was taken to the hospital for evaluation yesterday afternoon after an accident on Highway 60 and Main Street. One of the vehicles was towed.

Nobody was hurt in an accident Saturday afternoon at the Circle K on Hunter Drive. One driver was cited and a car was towed from the scene.

There were no injuries in an accident Saturday in the 1600 block of Ash involving three vehicles. 38 year old Shiela Pollard was arrested for DUI.

39 year old Ryan Peterson was arrested during a traffic stop Saturday evening for possession of marijuana. Peterson also had two outstanding warrants.

A resident on Cedar Street woke up around 1:00 this morning to find a burglar inside his house. The suspect fled on foot. The case is under investigation.

Globe Police are investigating reports of shoplifting at the Circle K on Hunter Drive; threats made to an employee at Walmart; criminal damage to a residence on Pinal Street; and criminal damage to a residence on East Skyline Drive.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a hit and run accident that occurred on Golden Hill; criminal damage to a residence on Cypress; and criminal damage to a residence on Cooley Ranch Road.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Goddard and Police Officials Oppose
Concealed Carry Proposal

Photo:GrandRapidsPress

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard and 10 Arizona law enforcement officials have announced their strong opposition to another proposed gun law. They say a bill being considered in the Senate Judiciary Committee would significantly loosen Arizona’s gun l;aws by allowing gun owners to carry a concealed weapon without a permit.

Arizona currently requires gun owners applying for a concealed carry permit to take an eight hour course in gun laws and gun safety, and to pass a shooting test. All but a few states have similar laws. The new bill would drop the permit requirement and allow all gun owners 18 years old and over to carry concealed weapons.

Goddard says allowing all gun owners to carry concealed weapons would create greater risks for law enforcement and community safety. He says officers would have to treat every person they come in contact with as if they are armed. That would create large and unnecessary risks.

Globe Council Meets Monday

Globe City Council meets Monday at 6:pm. The agenda contains several revisions to the City Code. These include changes relating to restaurants and obstruction of water meters.

There will be an Executive Session to discuss Police Chief interviews and a broadband license agreement.

Next Pinto Valley Project Blasts Are Monday Night

The next blasts on the US 60 Pinto Valley project will be Monday night at 10:pm and 1:am. Drivers can expect delays of up to 15 minutes.

Gas Prices Still Rising

AAA Arizona says the average statewide gasoline price is currently just under $2.65 a gallon. That’s an increase of more than ten cents since last week. The nationwide average is $2.685 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline.

Globe-Miami prices are around $2.52.

Sheriff's Office Assists Out-of-State Agencies

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office has recently been able to successfully assist two out-of-state law enforcement agencies by locating people believed to be in this area.

On Monday (June 15), the Sheriff’s Office received a call from the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Department in Louisiana. They requested help locating two children who were with their non-custodial parent. The children were ages 11 and 14, one with a medical condition that needed attention. The children were listed on the National Crime Information Center and with the National Center for Missing Children. Their mother has been in hiding for the last two years and has changed her name several times in an effort to conceal her identity.

Barbara Collins and her children were located Tuesday at a residence in Star Valley. Collins was using the name Samantha Stewart. The chidlren were removed by deputies and returned to the father who has sole legal custody.

Last Friday the Sheriff’s Office received a call from the Klamoth County Sheriff’s Office in Oregon. They requested help locating four people who were believed to be in this area. There was a court order to remove two children from their mother. All four people and the two children were located Sunday (June 14) at a camp in Flowing Springs. They were all living in one tent. Drug paraphernalia was found inside the tent.

The children were placed with CPS foster care until their grandparents—who have full legal custody—came to pick them up.

Police Log

Gila County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a 911 hangup yesterday evening at a residence on Black Warrior Canyon. The Sheriff’s Office also received a call from a neighbor reporting a domestic disturbance. 24 year old Jaime Pena was arrested for assault/domestic violence.

A deputy responded to a report of a burglary at a residence in Pueblo Heights Mobile Home Park. During the investigation, 39 year old Coleen McNamara was arrested on outstanding warrants for driving under the influence of drugs and driving with a suspended license.

Phoenix Police arrested 27 year old Anson Kinney of Peridot on a warant for use of marijuana.

Globe Police contacted 31 year old Robert Verdugo at a residence on Pinal View Deive. Verdugo was arrested in connection with a burglary that occurred on Tuesday on Skyline Drive.

18 year old Ray Robles was arrested after a fight yesterday evening in the area of Sixth and Cedar Street. Robles was charged with disorderly conduct/domestic violence.

Two people were arrested at a traffic stop last night. 18 year old Jose Dorame was charged with DUI, underage consumption of alcohol and driving with a suspended license. 18 year old Christopher Leach was charged with underage consumption and possession of an open container.

Obituary

Richard Donald Dale of Globe passed away last Sunday at Copper Mountain Inn. He was 84. He is survived by hs wife Barbara; his daughter; his son Mitchell Dale of Globe and 2 other sons; and 5 grandchildren.
Services for Richard Dale will be private.

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Senate Panel OKs Ban On Cell Use
While Driving

Photo:KJZZ

An Arizona Senate panel has approved a bill to restrict texting and cell phone use while driving. The East Valley Tribune reports that the bill would allow cell phone use only with handsfree devices. There would be exceptions allowed for emergencies and some other circumstances. The bill now goes to the full Senate.

Summer Solstice at BTO

The Boyce Thompson Arboretum presents live music and extended hours this Saturday evening to celebrate the summer solstice.

Mesa guitarist Deane Stanton will entertain between 6 and 7:30pm. Bring your own BBQ or buy hot dogs in the picnic area.

Image:AZStateParks

Free Entry This Weekend at National Parks

The first of three free summer weekends at national parks takes place tomorrow (Saturday) and Sunday. Entry fees being waived range from $3 to $25.

The next two free weekends will be July 18-19 and August 15-16.

'Dump the Drugs' Event Saturday

A ‘Dump the Drugs’ event takes place Saturday from 8:am until Noon at Fry’s.

You can help prevent accidental poisoning and prescription drug abuse by bringing in your unused or expired prescription and over the counter medications.

Republican Club Meets Saturday

The Cobre Valley Republican Club meets Saturday at 9:am at the Country Kitchen.

Transportation Board to Consider US 60 Pavement Preservation

The State Transportation Board meets tomorrow (Friday) at 9:am in Cottonwood. The Board is expected to award nine more projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects include pavement preservation on US 60 from the Miami city limits to McMillan Wash.

Bill Would Ban Smoking with Minor in Vehicle

Photo:UMF

A bill now advancing in the state legislature would make it illegal to smoke in vehicles in which a child is riding. A Senate committee has approved the bill and it now goes to the full Senate for a vote.

The Arizona Republic reports that the bill would make smoking in a vehicle with a minor present a nonmoving civil traffic violation with a penalty of $50 for each person under 18 in the vehicle.

Tribal 'World of Work' Classes

San Carlos Tribal Social Services is sponsoring four evening classes on July 6-9. The “World of Work” classes are designed to prepare tribal members for employment. All General Assistance clients are urged to attend.

Topics covered include employment applications, developing resumes, choosing the right job, work ethics, interview techniques, job search strategies, dress for success and creating your portfolio. Classes will be held at the community college in San Carlos. Transportation will be provided upon request.

Classes are available on a first come first served basis. Sign up at Tribal Social Services or call 475-2313.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday morning at Oak and Hill Street. One car was towed.

Globe Police arrested 22 year old Tianna Bowser for fraudulent schemes after she tried to cash a stolen check at Bank of the West.

49 year old Kathy Bowen was arrested at a traffic stop last night for extreme DUI.

24 year old Anthony Garcia was arrested yesterday on a DUI warrant.

Officers arrested 23 year old Natasha Darnell for shoplifting at Walmart.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested two people after a disturbance yesterday afternoon on Grover Canyon. 26 year old Erlinda Ramirez was charged with criminal damage and assault/disorderly conduct. 30 year old Paul Echevarria of Phoenix was arrested on a California warrant for assault.

Deputies are investigating a report of a stolen vehicle on Locomotive Drive and a report of a stolen gun from a vehicle in San Carlos.

Globe Police are investigating an assault that occurred in the area of Hackney and Broad and a related disturbance at an address on Tremont.

Obituary

Tex Harney of San Carlos passed away Sunday at Copper Mountain Inn. He was 63. He is survived by his brothers Gene and Jerry; and his sisters Isabelle Stevens, Ruby Harney, Rebecca Rogers and Dollie Hooke.

The wake for Tex Harney is tomorrow (Friday) at 4:pm at Ruby Harney’s residence. The funeral is Saturday at 1:pm at World Evangelism Revival Church.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

FDA Says Zicam Can Cause Smell Loss

Image:AssociatedContent

The US Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning that Zicam nasal spray could permanently damage your sense of smell.

The FDA says consumers should stop using Zicam Cold Remedy nasal gel and related products immediately. About 130 consumers have reported a loss of smell after using Zicam products since 1999.

The product is produced by Scottsdale based manufacturer Matrixx Initiatives. The company says it is voluntarily withdrawing the products but says the FDA action is unwarranted.

GCCC Meetings on Thursday

The Gila County Community College District Governing Board is holding two public meetings tomorrow (Thursday). The meetings start at 3:pm by ITV at Gila Pueblo Campus Room 520.

The 3:00 meeting is a Truth in Taxation Hearing and Public Budget Hearing. The Board will present the proposed 2009-2010 budget.

Immediately following that meeting, the Board Chair will call to order a Special Board Meeting to adopt the budget.

Image:GCCC

Health Secretary Plans to Improve Indian Health Care

Photo:BWH

US Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says she plans to launch a multiyear effort to improve health care for Native Americans. Sebelius calls the current system a “historic failure.”

She told the Associated Press that part of her strategy is to recruit more providers for reservations and to focus more on preventative care. Sebelius says her department is also increasing the size of the Public Health Service. Part of that agency’s mission is to dispatch doctors to reservations.

The government is required to provide American Indians with free health care on reservations. But the Indian Heath Service only has about half the money it needs.

Senate Tries Again and Passes Handgun Bill

The Arizona Senate took another vote Tuesday and passed a bill (18-10) to allow people with concealed carry permits to take handguns into restaurants that serve alcohol.

The bill failed the day before on a 14-14 tie when one supporter was absent.

Pinto Valley Project Begins Night Blasting

The Arizona Department of Transportation will try to reduce traffic delays from the US 60 Pinto Valley project by switching to a nightime blasting schedule. The next blasts will be on Thursday night and Friday morning at 10:pm and 1:am. Blasts are also scheduled for Monday night and Tuesday morning at 10:pm and 1:am. Following the blasts there will be one lane of traffic available with pilot cars guiding vehicles through the work zone in alternating directions. Drivers can expect delays of up to 15 minutes.

ADOT has also started a night shift truck hauling operation from 8:pm until 4:am. There will be brief traffic delays throughout each shift.

Police Log

Globe and Canyon Fire Departments responded to a structure fire yesterday morning in a shed at El Maguey Drive in Miami. No injuries were reported.

Yesterday afternoon a man returned to his home on Skyline and surprised someone inside his house. The intruder fled on foot. Police were not able to locate the suspect. The case is under investigation.

A Globe Police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop around 10:30 last night in the area of Main Street near Copper Country Mobile Home Park.The man on a motorcycle fled from the officer, resulting in a short pursuit. He wrecked his motorcycle near a residence on Main Street in Central Heights. A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy found him hiding in the bushes. 29 year old Brock Sesler was turned over to Globe PD and treated at the scene for minor injuries by Tri City EMTs. Sesler was charged with unlawful flight. He also had an outstanding warrant from the Miami Police Department for driving with a revoked license.

Globe Police arrested 45 year old Manuel Gaona on a warrnt for disorderly conduct.

Officers are investigating a report of criminal damage to a wall in the area of Euclid Avenue.

The Gila County sheriff’s Office is investigating criminal damage to a vehicle at the Claypool Circle K.

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

State Transportation Board Will Consider 9 More Projects

The State Transportation Board meets Friday at 9:am in Cottonwood. The Board is expected to award nine more projects funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These projects include pavement preservation on US 60 from the Miami city limits to McMillan Wash.

The Arizona Department of Transportation says that lower than anticipated bid prices for the first projects have resulted in a savings of more than $56 million. This will make it possible to fund additional projects.

Image:ADOT

Globe Council Special Meeting on Wednesday

Globe City Council holds a Special Meeting tomorrow night (Wednesday) at 6:pm. There will be an Executive Session to discuss Police Chief interviews.

After the Executive Session, Consent Agenda items include the adoption of Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Grant Guidelines relating to an application for Community Development Block Grants.

Kirkpatrick Staff Office Hours in Globe

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick staff members will host open office hours tomorrow (Wednesday) at the Gila County Courthouse from 10:am until 4:pm.

West Receives Support for Renewable Energy

Photo:Treehugger.com

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar spoke to the Western Governors’ Association annual meeting yesterday (Monday). Salazar says the Obama administration will help Western states speed up the development of a system for delivering renewable power to customers in the region.

Salazar says Arizona and three other states will get federal renewable energy planning offices to help make sure projects don’t get stalled in local bureaucracy.

The Denver Post reports that Energy Secretary Steven Chu also announced $80 million in federal stimulus money to develop high voltage transmission networks.

Western governors and Cabinet secretaries also signed an agreement to work together to protect wildlife corridors essential to the survival of migratory animals such as pronghorn, caribou, mule deer, and elk.

Police Log

A car ran off the road and into a fence early yesterday morning on Highway 188 near Killmers. 37 year old Brian Ingram was arrested for DUI.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of identity theft taken at a residence in the Dripping Springs area, and vandalism at Gila Community College.

Globe Police are investigating a theft at a business on North Broad Street and a theft at the Cobre Village Apartments.

Bill to Allow Guns in Restaurants Fails (Update)

Image:Tennessean.com

The Arizona Senate has unexpectedly failed to pass the bill that would allow people with concealed weapon permits to take hanguns into restaurants that serve alcohol.

The Senate vote was a 14-14 tie. The Arizona Republic reports that one presumed backer was absent and the main sponsor then changed his vote to “no” in order to request consideration on another day.

Current state law prohibits possession of firearms in bars and restaurants seling alcohol.

Under the bill, a permit holder carrying a weapon into a restaurant serving alcohol would not be allowed to drink. And it would allow restaurants to still deny entry by citizens with guns by posting a sign.

Image:Tennessan.com

Monday, June 15, 2009

State Superintendent Wants to Ban Ethnic Studies

State School Superintendent Tom Horne is asking legislators to ban ethnic studies in Arizona public schoools. Horne has announced that a bill will be introduced next week that will prohibit classes “that are designed primarily for students of a particular ethnic group or advocate ethnic solidarity instead of treatment of pupils as individuals.”

The bill would give the state authority to withold 10% of state aid from any school district or charter school which violates the law.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets tomorrow (Tuesday) morning at 10:00. The agenda includes a $56,000 grant application for the Gila County Early Childhood Screening Program.

The Supervisors will also consider purchasing property from BHP Copper.

University Presidents Propose Lower Priced Campuses Around Arizona

Photo:TucsonCitizen

Arizona’s three university presidents are proposing the opening of a fourth, lower priced campus as soon as next year and four similar campuses by 2020. The campuses would only offer bachelor’s degrees with limited majors and have cheaper in state tuition

The plan will be presented to the Board of Regents on Thursday. Many details still need to be worked out, such as funding, locations and academic majors.

The presidents are recommending that the new campuses be operated by an existing university. ASU is the most likely choice.

The Arizona Republic reports that Lake Havasu City, Show Low and Goodyear are among the locations intersted in having a 4 year campus.

Pioneer Fire 45% Contained

The Pioneer Fire—eight miles south of Globe--has burned 1300 acres and is now 45% contained. Full containment is expected later this week. The fire is located at Pioneer Pass, east of East Mountain and west of Highway 77.

Smoke may be visible over the next several days as firefighters continue to mop up, monitor and secure the perimeter, and complete suppression rehabilitation work.

Globe Council Meets Tonight

Globe City Council meets tonight (Monday) at 6:00 following an Executive Session to discuss Police Chief interviews.

The agenda includes an amended Interim Emergency Fire Intergovernmental Agreement with the Town of Miami.

The Council will also consider a professional services agreement for the development and implementation of a Remediation Plan to address groundwater contamination at the Globe Maintenance Facility.

Police Log

A 77 year old man died Saturday afternoon near Indian Point at Roosevelt Lake. The man was not breathing when he was pulled from the water and was pronouncd dead at the scene. The Gila County Sheriff’s Office says this may have been a case of cardiac arrest.

One person was taken to Cobre Valley CommunityHospital with minor injuries on Saturday after a two vehicle accident on Ruiz Canyon Road. One car was towed from the scene and a driver was cited.

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident late yesterday morning at the Highway 70/77 junction. One driver was cited for failure to control his vehicle to avoid a collision.

Globe Police arrested two people yesterday morning after an argument between neighbors. 44 year old Rosalinda Skinner was charged with disorderly conduct/assault. 19 year old Stephanie Skinner was arrested for disorderly conduct.

Two people were arrested for shoplifting at the Claypool Safeway. 20 year old Candace Ballesteros was booked and released. 21 year old Frederick Lavin was booked into the Gila County jail.

21 year old Titania Pahe was arrested for disorderly conduct late Saturday night after a disturbance in the area of High and Cottonwood.

44 year old Deanna Boni-Smith was arrested Saturday on a warrant for extreme DUI.

Globe Police are invesitgating criminal damage at a residence on Kline Street.

Friday, June 12, 2009

'Medical Tourism' is Increasing

Image:inMotion

The Arizona Republic reports that many Amricans are traveling abroad to get hip replacements and other medical care. Estimates vary, but it is believed that at least 85,000 people and possibly as many as 750,000 people a year go outside the US for health care.

Cost is a major factor, but so is specialized treatment. Some procedures can be done abroad but not in the US.

A survey released by the Commonwealth Fund shows that the percentage of Americans who are struggling to pay medical bills jumped from 34% in 2005 to 41% in 2007. The US Census Bureau estimates that more than 45 million Americans lack health care coverage.

Resources such as the Medical Tourism Association and MedtoGo.com help make medical tourism possible.

Image:TheMedicalTourist

Bill Would Punish Lobbyists Who Lie

The Arizona Senate Government Committee has voted unanimously to impose stiff penalties on registered lobbyists who knowingly provide false information to lawmakers and other public officials. The East Valley Tribune reports that violaters could be prohibited from being a lobbyist for three years, with a fine equal to what they are paid by their client.

Similar bills haven’t made it very far during the past two years.

Image:PaulFlynnMP

Gas Prices Still Rising

Gasoline prices have increased for the seventh straight week. AAA says Arizona motorists are paying an average of just over $2.55 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline. That’s an increase of 12 and a half cents from last week.

The national average is $2.63, an increase of six cents.

Prices in Globe-Miami are around $2.47.

Police Log

Globe Police and EMS responded to an accident at noon yesterday at the railroad crossing near Vonnie’s Pizza. No further information is available.

An officer arrested two people yesterday in connection with a burglary report taken on Wednesday. 52 year old Tina Garcia and 56 year old Kathryn Brown were both charged with felony theft.

45 year old Thomas Givens was arrested last night for DUI and possession of marijuana.

An officer took a report of shoplifting at the Circle k on Hunter Drive. The suspect left the area on foot and then was picked up by a car that was parked behind the store. The case is under investigation.

Officers are investigating a theft from a vehicle at J&S Towing; criminal damage to a house on South Sutherland; criminal damage to the Arizona Republic building; and criminal damage to Yesterday’s Treasures.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a burglary at a residence on Yuma Trail.

Obituaries

Sarah Nicole Russell of San Carlos passed away Tuesday at Phoenix Childrens Hospital. She was 14. She is survived by her parents Anthony and Anna Russell; her brothers Uriah, Isaiah and Elijah Russell; and her sister Andrea.
The wake for Sarah Russell is tomorrow (Saturday) at 4:pm at the Russell residence. The funeral is Sunday at 1:pm at San Carlos Intermediate School.

Former Globe resident Beverly Wager of Mesa pased away Wednesday.
Visitation for Beverly Wager is tomorrow (Saturday) at 9:am at Holy Angels Catholic Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and the funeral is at 10:00.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Saturday is 'National Get Outdoors Day'

Photo:NationalGetOutdoorsDay.org

Saturday (June 13) is National Get Outdoors Day. It is a new annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun. Participating organizations—including the US Forest Service—are offering opportunities for families to experience traditional and non-traditional types of outdoor activities. The purpose of National Get Outdoors Day is to encourage visits to public lands and to reconnect youth to the great outdoors.

Photo:funoutdoors.com

Food Bank Miami Branch Grand Opening

Gila Community Food Bank is celebrating the opening of their Miami branch Saturday from 10:am until noon. Everyone is invited enjoy light refreshments and see the facility on Adonis Street, just behind the Hi Tyme appliance store.

Flag Day Celebration

The Globe-Miami Flag Day celebration begins Sunday at 2:pm at the Globe Community Center. There will be a horseshoe tournament, sack races for the kids, his and her 3-legged races, a watermelon eating ontest and a water balloon toss. Barbeque food and homemade desserts will be on sale.

Arizona To Recieve Education
Stabilization Funds

Photo:CUDenver

Governor Jan Brewer has announced that Arizona’s application for the State Fiscal Stabilization Fund has been approved by the US Education Department. More than $680 million is now available for Arizona under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. An additional $335 million will be available this fall.

The money will be used to help keep teachers employed, in spite of deep budget cuts at the state level. The funds will also be used to improve teacher quality, upgrade assessment methods and turn around underperforming schools.

Police Log

Canyon Fire Department and Stateland Fire responded to a report of a brush fire with a structure fire on Whitehorse Lane in Dripping Springs. 36 year old Randy Gilliam was arrested for reckless burning and felony criminal damage.

An unoccupied motor home was engulfed in flames early this morning in the area of Devereaux and Sutherland. A report was taken for arson.

Globe Fire Department quickly put out a trash can fire in the area of Hill and Sutherland.

Globe Fire responded to a boat on fire yesterday at a residence on Hill Street. The extent of damage is unknown. There were no reported injuries.

Shortly after midnight, an employee at the Drift Inn called Globe PD to report a customer broke the door to their cooler and was causing a disturbance. 28 year old David Scott was contacted at Hackney and Broad Street. He was given medical treatment for his hand and arrested for criminal damage.

Officers were dispatched to an assault at Horizon Human Services. 27 year old Rachel Arney was arrested for an outstanding warrant. She was also charged with criminal damage for kicking out a patrol unit window.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 28 year old Bryan Hernandez on warrants for failure to comply on charges of criminal damage/domestic violence, vulnerable adult abuse, aggravated assault, possession of marijuana and child support.

The Drug Task Force arrested 52 year old Patrick Beaton on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of arson. Beaton was also charged with possession of dangerous drugs.

Globe Police are investigating a theft report taken at a residence on 7th Street and criminal damage to a vehicle at a residence on Ruiz Canyon.

Obituaries

Baby Jayden Joel Hinton passed away Saturday at Banner Desert Medical Center. He was 22 weeks old. He is survived by his parents Shawn Hinton and Elena Pacheco; his grandparents Arnold and Elaine Pacheco, and Vonda Noline and Henry Hinton, Jr.
The wake for Jayden Hinton is tomorrrow (Friday) at 8:am at Arlene Wilson’s residence. The funeral is Friday at Noon.

Douglas Earl Leonard of Safford passed away Tuesday at Scottsdale Healthcare. He was 65. He is survived by his wife Lucilda; his daughters Debra Bull and Kathi Rose; his sons Michael and Jay Leonard; and 30 grandchildren.
Visitation for Douglas Leonard will be Saturday at 11:am at Lamont Mortuary. The funeral is Saturday at 1:pm.

Johnny Canizales of Miami passed away Tuesday at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix. He was 58.
Visitation for Johnny Canizales will be Sunday from 6 to 7:pm at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 7:pm. Funeral Mass will be Monday at 10:am

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Kirkpatrick Introduces Bill to Help Fire Departments

Photo:TomLally

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick has introduced a bill in Congress to help fire departments continue to hire new personnel. The bill waives the cost sharing requirements for a major grant program so that rural communities can afford to keep participating.

The SAFER program—Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response—helps fire departments hire more firefighters by assisting with their salaries for their first four years.Kirkpatrick says the program has been extremely successful, but its cost sharing requirements have become a burden during the recession.

The bill has been assigned to the House Committee on Science and Technology. It is endorsed by the International Association of Firefighters and by local fire chiefs.

Image:FEMA

Chamber Mixer at Volvo Rents

The Globe-Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce monthly mixer is tomorrow night (Thursday) from 5 to 7:pm at Volvo Rents on the Globe-Miami Highway in lower Miami.

Dinner and Auction to Benefit GCC Students

The Pinal Mountain Foundation for Higher Education is holding its annual Dinner and Benefit Auction tomorrow (Thursday) night to raise scholarship funds for students attending Gila Community College.

Dinner is at 6:00 at the Dream Manor Inn. The auction begins at 6:45. The cost is $25.

Miami School Board Meets Thursday

The Miami School Board meets tomorrow night (Thursday) at 6:30 in the Miami High School Library.

Study Says Fire Prevention Efforts in Western US Leave Homes at Risk

Photo:UCB

A report released this week from the University of Colorado at Boulder suggests that federal land managers focus too many wild-fire prevention efforts in remote areas. The study says that only 3% of fire prevention projects between 2004 and 2008 occurred around towns along the edges of wildlands. The researchers say this leaves communities exposed to wildfires.

However, Arizona stands out among the 11 states studied. Arizona has the most fuel reduction projects near communities. State and federal agencies say they have worked with towns and homeownners to clear fuels and create defensible spaces necessary to steer wildfires away from people.

The Tonto National Forest is currently treating almost 8,000 acres of mostly public land near Payson with money from the federal stimulus package.

What To Do If Affected By Wildfire Smoke

The Forest Service says that people in communities near the Pioneer Fire have expressed concern about the intensity and content of the smoke. The Forest Service suggests that residents take some of these actions recommended by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality:

Consider locating to another area temporarily, as long as it is safe for you to do so.
Move indoors and stay there with doors and windows closed.
Run the air conditioning, the fan feature on your home heating system with the heat turned off. This should help some.
Run room air filtration units.
Reduce your physical activity. Do not exercise.

Concern has also been expressed about the area in the Pinal Mountains that was treated with an herbicide similar to Agent Orange in the 1960’s. Fire officials say that if current conditions persist and fire management objectives are met, the Pioneer Fire will not reach that area.

The Pioneer Fire has burned more than 500 acres and is 25% contained. It is located about 8 miles south of Globe.

Photo:NPS

Police Log

Local fire agencies responded to what was reported to be a structure fire yesterday at Pueblo Heights Mobile Home Park. It was actually a dryer smoking and the structure was OK.

A woman called the Gila County Sheriff’s Office yesterday morning from a residence on Calle de Loma to report that a man she didn’t know was asleep on her couch.It turned out to be a suspect in several vehicle burglary attenmpts earlier in the morning. 18 year old Zachary Cross was placed under arrest.

21 year old Christopher Castaneda was booked yesterday for assaulting another inmate at the Gila County Jail.

21 year old Carl Teague was arrested at a traffic stop on a warrant for failure to appear on a charge of reckless driving.

Globe Police arrested 27 year old Rodney Shrove at a residence on Devereaux for failure to notify authorities of a change of address as a sex offender.

19 year old Robert Salcido was arrested at a traffic stop on a warrant for failure to appear on a DUI charge.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft from a vehicle on Robert Drive; a theft from a vehicle on Cross Drive; and criminal damage to a vehicle on Scott Avenue.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Gila Community Food Bank Miami Branch Grand Opening Is This Saturday

Photobucket

Gila Community Food Bank is celebrating the opening of its Miami branch this Saturday. It’s on Adonis Street, just behind the Hi Tyme appliance store.

The new site opened April 1 after United Food Bank asked the Gila Community Food Bank to take over the distribution of food supplied by the USDA, WHEAT, Feed America and other organizations that provide food to keep people from going hungry.

Gila Community Food Bank is a volunteer organization that offers several services, including a Clothing Bank, Help Baby program, Help Yourself co-op food boxes and a 24 hour information and referral phone line. They are also in charge of dispensing food from a produce truck that comes each month from the United Food Bank in Mesa.

The Miami branch Grand Opening is this Saturday from 10:am until noon.

Summer Reading Program Starts Wednesday

The Summer Reading Program begins tomorrow (Wednesday) at the Globe and Miami Public Libraries.

The Globe program begins at 10:am. The Miami Library Summer Reading Program starts at 11:00.

Globe School Board Meets Wednesday

Globe School Board meets tomorrow night (Wednesday) at the Mofford Activity Center. A Study Session begins at 6:00. The Regular Meeting follows at 6:15.

The Regular Meeting agenda includes approval of a series of math textbooks for Copper Rim Elementary School, High Desert Middle School and Globe High School.

Feds Approve Arizona Weatherization Assistance Program

Photo:Treehugger.com

Governor Jan Brewer has announced that Arizona’s plan for Weatherization Assistance has been approved by the US Energy Department. That means that 40% of Arizona’s $57 million program is on its way to the State Energy Office.

The program helps low income families and individuals decrease their monthly utility bills by identifying energy efficiency improvements and then making necessary repairs. The income requirement for households is 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

For application information in Gila County, call 425-7631, ext 8693.

FDA Warns Against Using Clarcon Skin Products

The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to use skin products made by Clarcon. High levels of disease-causing bacteria were found during a recent inspection.

Clarcon has issued a voluntary recall of some skin sanitizers and skin protectants marketed under several different brand names. These include Citrushield Lotion, Dermassentials, Skin Shield and Total Skin Care.

The FDA says it is especially concerned because the products are promoted as antimicrobial agents that claim to treat open wounds and damaged skin and protect against infectious diseases. But some of the bacteria found during the inspection can cause skin infections and possibly permanent skin damage.

The agency says consumers should not use any Clarcon products and should throw them away.

Image:SkinCareBlog

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday morning at Broad and Oak.

Last night Globe Police received a call about a reckless driver west bound on Highway 60. 30 year old Jason Reyes was stopped and arrested for DUI.

38 year old Troy Murry was arrested at a traffic stop early this morning for DUI.

Officers responded to a report of shoplifting at the Circle K on Santee. The suspect left on foot. 18 year old Jacob Conrad of Superior was located and arrested for shoplifting and carrying a concealed weapon.

A Gila County Sheriff’s deputy arrested 31 year old Renae Haddick on a warrant for failure to appear on charges of burglary and possesion of drug paraphernalia.

A deputy was dispatched to the area of Calle de Loma after a call about several juveniles trying to get into vehicles. When the deputy arrived, he saw a juvenile inside a vehicle. The juvenile fled on foot and was later detained by a Globe Police officer who was assisting. The juvenile was referred for burglary and theft from a vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of criminal damage to a residence on Yuma Trail.

Globe Police are investigating a burglary from two trucks belonging to a resident on Bailey Street; a theft from a vehicle on Kofa Pass; and a burglary on South Second Street.

Obituaries

Dorothy Williams of Miami passed away Sunday at Gardener Home in Phoenix. She was 98.
A graveside service for Dorothy Williams will be held tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11:am at Pinal Cemetery in Central Heights.

Winey Hoffman of San Carlos passed away last week at John C. Lincoln Hospital in Phoenix. She was 67. She is survived by her husband Wilson; 2 sons; 2 daughters; her sister; her brother; and 12 grandchildren.
The wake for Winey Hoffman is tomorrow (Wednesday) at 4:pm at the Hoffman residence. The funeral is Thursday at 1:pm at Grace Lutheran Church.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Auto Insurers Starting to Cover Pets

Photo:dogblog

Some automobile insurance companies are beginning to offer free coverage for pets injured or killed in a car accident. A Farmers Insurance agent in Phoenix told KTAR that customers with full coverage can get up to $600 for veterinary bills or other death costs. The agent says he expects this to become a common industry practice within a couple of years.

So far, no one has filed a claim under the new service, but a lot of people have asked about it.

Readers Choose News that Fits Their Views

A new study by Ohio State University suggests that most people who read media messages tend to choose news that fits their pre-existing views.

LiveScience.com reports that the study tracked how college students spend their time reading articles on controversial issues. Participants spent 36% more time reading articles that agreed with their point of view. Even when the students did read articles that countered their views, they almost always balanced that with reading other articles that confirmed their opinions

However, the study also shows that people with individual confidence and certainty, such as people with strong party affiliation or greater interest in politics, are more likely to read articles with opposing views.

A separate study by a Brigham Young University researcher shows that only 5% of online news readers go to political blogs on a daily basis. But they are the most politically active news consumers.

Image:Google

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets tomorrow (Tuesday) at 10:am. They will consider a Resolution to support the idea of a Gila County Job corps.

There will be a presentation of the Apache Language Voter Outreach Program.

There will also be a presentation about the University of Arizona’s Gila County Cooperative Extension Annual Report and 2009-2010 budget request.

Kirkpatrick Staff in Globe on Tuesday

Staff members from Representative Ann Kirkpatrick’s office will be in Globe tomorrow (Tuesday). Open office hours will be from 10 until 4 at the Gila County Courthouse.

Regular Wednesday office hours will resume on June 17.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday afternoon on Highway 60 near Big O Tires. One car was towed from the scene.

A car hit a pole Saturday in the parking lot near Beall’s Outlet. One person was taken to Cobre Valley Hospital by private transport.

Two people were arrested after a domestic disturbance last night in the area of Grover Canyon and Highway 60. Gila County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 24 year old Derral Warden for assault doemstic violence. 25 year old Crystal Warden was also cited and released for domestic violence.

28 year old Robert Radcliff was arrested yesterday evening for possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Sheriff’s Office arrested 27 year old Nicholas Garcia on a warrant for failure to appear for arraignment on a charge of possesion of drug paraphernalia.

A Mesa couple was arrested Saturday night after a citizen reported a reckless driver to a Sheriff’s deputy on patrol. After a DUI investigation, 53 year old James Wright was charged with aggravated DUI and possession of marijuana. 53 year old Mariana Wright was cited and released for possession of marijuana.

Miami Police arrested 20 year old Michael Travis on a warrant for assault/domestic violence.

Globe Police arrested 24 year old Christobal Ortiz for assault/domestic violence after a disturbance Saturday at Copper Country Mobile Home Park.

Officers responded to a single vehicle accident late Saturday night in the Two Lanes parking lot. 22 year old Kevin Rambler was intoxicated and had taken the vehicle without the owner’s permission and wrecked it. The owner didn’t want to file theft charges, but Rambler was arrested for aggravated DUI.

Officers are investigating a burglary at the concession stand at the Globe swimming pool.

Gila County Sheriff’s deputies are investigating a burglary at August Hills Mobile Home Park.

Second Arrest in Murder Case

Globe Police have made another arrest in connection with the death of Bartholomew Stago. Stago’s body was found May 31 in the area of a wash just east of the 600 block of South Fourth Street. An investigation led to the arrest of 24 year old Sonya Miller. During the investigation, officers learned that 57 year old Charles Mull was also involved in the homicide. A warrant was obtained for his arrest.

With the help of the White River Police Department, the White Mountain Apache Tribe and the San Carlos Police Department, Mull was arrested in White River. Mull was extradited back to Globe and booked into the Gila County jail for first degree murder.

There are no other known suspects, but Globe PD encourages anyone with information about the case to contact Detective Sergeant Durnan, Detective Williams, or the on duty sergeant.

Blasts Today on US 60

The next blasts on the US 60 Pinto Valley project are scheduled for today (Monday) at 10:30 and 12:30. Drivers can expect delays of up to 30 minutes following each blast. There may be brief delays at other times during the day.

Obituary

Bartholomew Stago of San Carlos passed away May 31. He was 53. He is survived by his wife Willa and his brother Elroy Browning.
The funeral for Bartholomew Stago is today (Monday) at 10:am at the Church of Jesus Christ in San Carlos.

Friday, June 5, 2009

New Chrysler Company Will Honor 'Lemon Law'

Photo:TopSpeed.com

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard says that Fiat and the new Chrysler Group LLC have agreed to honor the Lemon Law rights of existing Chrysler owners when the new company takes control, pending court approval.

Arizona’s Lemon Laws provide consumers with rights and procedures to obtain a refund or a replacement vehicle if a new car develops a significant problem that can’t be fixed after a certain number of repairs.

Goddard says there was a question whether the new Chrysler Group would be required to honor Lemon Law rights for cars sold or leased by the company before the closure of the “Old Chrysler.” But Fiat negotiated an agreement with a group of state attorneys general. It is contained in the Bankruptcy Court judge’s order issued June 1.

Image:jalopnik.com