Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Study: Arizona One of the Worst Run States in America

The website 24/7 Wall Street has ranked Arizona 47th on its list of America’s best run states. That places Arizona near the bottom. The rankings are based on issues like state debt per capita, poverty and unemployment rates, and the percentage of citizens without health insurance.

Arizona’s state debt per capita is the 9th lowest in the country. But the percent of Arizonans without health insurance is 16.9%, the nation’s 16th highest. The percent living below the poverty line is 16.3%, or the 13th highest.

Arizona’s 9.1% unemployment is the 18th highest in the nation.

The study found Wyoming to be the nation’s best run state. California is the worst.

Holiday DUI Enforcement

The Goveernor’s Office of Highway Safety has announced the start of the annual Holiday DUI Enforcement and Sober Designated Driver campaigns.

Law enfrcement officers will be out in force looking for impaired drivers. You can expect to see DUI checkpoints and more police presence throughout December and into the New Year.

Last year these types of holiday enforcement campaigns resulted in more than 3,300 arrests.

Police Log

Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 21 year old inmate Antonia Ramos on a failure to comply warrant for possession and use of drug paraphernalia.

25 year old Vanessa Long was cited and released for driving with a suspended license.

A theft report was taken in the Central Heights area.

Globe Police are investigating an aggravated assault report taken at the El Rey Motel.

Obituaries

Neasa Garcia of San Carlos passed away November 26 at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix. She was 66. She is survived by her son Alantino Garcia; her daughter Michelle Enos; 3 brothers; her sister; and 7 grandchildren.
The wake for Neasa Garcia will be Saturday at 4:pm at the Garcia residence. The funeral is Sunday at 1:pm in the Rice School gym.

Helen Sandoval Lira of Mesa passed away November 25 at Hospice of the Southwest. She was 91. She is survived by her daughter Helen Denney; her son John Sandoval; her brother; 6 sisters; and 10 grandchildren.
Visitation for Helen Lira will be Saturday at 9:am at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and Mass is at 10:00.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

CVCA 'Student Showcase'

Cobre Valley Center for the Arts is hosting a “Student Showcase” that consists of works by Gila Community College students. The art work will be on display throughout the month of December. It includes paintings, drawings, jewelry, lapidary, ceramics, sculpture, stained and fused glass, and photography.

A reception will be held on Saturday (December 3) from 11:30am until 3:pm.

PMFHE Accepting Scholarship Applications

Pinal Mountain Foundation for Higher Education is accepting scholarship applications for the Spring 2012 semester. Students who plan to enroll full time at Gila Community College Gila Pueblo or San Carlos campuses and who have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher may apply.

Applications may be picked up at the Gila Pueblo Campus Admisnitration Office. The completed applications must be received by 5:pm on December 6.

Police Log

There was a two vehicle accident yesterday evening at Beer Tree Crossing. No further information is available.

Gila County Sheriff’s Deputies and medical personnel responded to a suicide threat at a residence on Broadway. The person was taken to the hospital. A crisis team was called and weapons were taken from the residence for safe keeping.

Globe Police received a call about a woman who was passed out in her car at Shining Times Car Wash. 19 year old Rachel Green was arrested and jailed for possession and sale of narcotics.

23 year old Kelly McClain was arrested for theft yesterday afternoon at Walmart.

22 year old Amanda Statham was arrested last night for shoplifting at Walmart.

Officers located a vehicle that was reported stolen yesterday morning at a business on Russell Road. The case is pending further investigation.

Tucson Police arrested 30 year old Kirk Butler of San Carlos on failure to appear warrants for issuing a bad check.

Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft report taken at a residence in Pueblo Heights Mobile Home Park.

A citizen in Globe reported a telephone scam in which a caller tells you that you’ve won a new car. To receive the car you have to purchase Walmart gift cards. The Gila County Sheriff’s Office reminds you to be cautious when receiving calls requiring you to make a purchase in order to receive a prize.

Obituary

Donald L. Tomerlin passed away November 21 at his home in Superior. He was 65. He is survived by his wife Sherry; 2 daughters; his son; 3 sisters; and 1 grandchild.
A Memorial Service for Donald Tomerlin will be held tomorrow (Wednesday) at 11:am at First Baptist Church in Superior.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Red Cross Blood Drive

The American Red Cross will be back in Globe on Thursday, December 8 in the gymnasium at the LDS Church. The hours are 1 to 6:pm. They are in urgent need of blood donors because the holidays are one of the most critical times of the year.

To make an appointment go to redcrossblood.org and enter the Sponsor Code: Miami.

Radio History Featured at Miami Hardscrabble Series

The next free program in the Miami Hardscrabble series will feature Ron Hughes talking about “Antique Radios.” The presentation will include highlights of the history of the mainstay of pre-television family entertainment.

Light refreshments will be served following the program.

Community Centennial Band Concerts

The first two Community Centennial Band concerts have been scheduled for Sunday, December 11 and Saturday, Decmber 17. The December 11 concert will be at 3:pm at the Miami High School Auditorium. The December 17 concert will be at 6:30pm at High Desert Middle School.

Musicians of all ages from both Globe and Miami will perfom at the free concerts.

Salvation Army Food Drive

The Globe Fire Department is conducting a Food Drive from December 1 through December 12. Food is needed for the Christmas Boxes including stuffing mix, canned sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, fruit and vegetables.

Bring your food items to the Globe Fire Station or the Salvation Army Office.

The Salvation Army needs volunteers for the Christmas Kettles. Call Audrey Opitz at 200-9919 for more information.

Police Log

Globe Police and EMS were dispatched to the area of Omega Street early Saturday morning where a man was lying in the road with a head injury. The man was taken to the hospital and the case is under investigation.

Saturday night two unarmed men entered a residence on Murphy Street and took some electronic equipment. They left without harming anyone. The case is under investigation by Globe PD.

26 year old Charles Fee was arrested Saturday for violation of a court order and domestic violence.

28 year old Alexander Baylish was arrested at a traffic stop for driving with a suspended license.

53 year old Phyillsa Dosela was arrested on a warrant for driving with a suspended license.

On Friday, 19 year old Eduardo Armenta was contacted at the Gila County Jail and booked in connection with criminal damage at a business on Broad Street.

Officers are investigating criminal damage to two vehicles at a residence on 2nd Street; criminal damage at a residence on East Skyline; and a theft at an address on Joshua Tree Lane.

On Saturday the Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 39 year old Arthur Gonzales for aggravated assault/domestic violence after a disturbance on Main Street.

Two people were arrested Friday after a disturbance in Six Shooter Canyon. 31 year old Erick Greenwall and 27 year old Olivia Greenwall were both charged with domestic assault and disorderly conduct.

Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers arrested two Tempe residents at a traffic stop at School House Recreation Area. 53 year old Lisa Felix and 54 year old Issac Weaver were charged with possession/sale/manufacture of dangerous drugs.

Deputies ara are investigating a theft at the Gila County Animal Shelter; a stolen bike on Lincoln Way; and an assault at the jail involving two inmates.

Friday, November 25, 2011

Miami Council Meets Monday

Miami Town Council meets Monday at 6:30pm. They will approve the use of $500 from the Special Events Fund for the Genesis “Pride of Miami Project.” They will also approve hiring a firm to perform the audit of the Miami Magistrate Court.

The Council will go into Executive Session for legal consultation concerning the Town’s Brownfields Grant for the Barcon/Fitzpatrick Building. They will also discuss pending litigation with the Barcon Corporation and possible settlement discussions for Fritz v. Town of Miami.

Local Firefighters Will 'Ring the Bells' Today

The firefighters of our community will be “ringing the bells” for the Salvation Army today (Friday) from 10 until 6 at Walmart, Fry’s and both Safeway Stores.

Globe Candidate Update

Eric Mariscal has taken out nomination papers to run against Carmen Casillas in Globe District 5. Casillas has already returned her nomination petitions to the Globe City Clerk.

As of Wednesday, Thea Wilshire and C.M. Humphrey have picked up nomination packets for District 2 and James Haley is running for District 1.

So far it looks like three people are running for Globe Mayor: Fernando Shipley, Terence Wheeler and James Gillette.

Police Log

Last night Canyon and Globe Fire Departments responded to a brush fire at Adobe and Six Shooter Canyon. The fire was quickly put out.

On Wednesday Miami Police responded to a report of a structure fire. They found that the homeowner was able to contain the fire to a pile of wood and other items being stored in front of the home. No damage was reported.

Nobody was hurt in an accident last night at Besich and Russell Road.

Wednesday afternoon there was a non-injury accident on Highway 60 at Dave’s Fast Stop.

Three people were arrested after a fight last night near the downtown Safeway. 19 year old Al Brown was charged with disorderly conduct and underage consumption. 27 year old Terrill Brown and 28 year old Tiffany Gates were arrested on outstanding warrants.

25 year old Laurie Gates was arrested last night on a failure to appear warrant for shoplifting.

On Wednesday around midnight 19 year old Eduardo Armenta was arrested for underage consumption.

Officers are investigating a theft report taken at a residence on Euclid and a counterfeit bill at a business on Highway 60.

Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating criminal damage at a residence on Kellner Canyon Road; criminal damage at a residence on Ice House Canyon Road; criminal damage at Apache Trail Mobile Home Park; and a theft on Morrow Avenue.

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Group Releases 'Trouble in Toyland' Report

The Public Interest Research Group has released its annual Trouble in Toyland report. The report alerts consumers to the dangers and toxins in children’s toys.

Lead is still being found in some toys. Lead has been linked to chronic health problems like lowered IQ and behavioral issues. PIRG has singled out the Family Dollar peace sign bracelet and the Disney Fairies Tinkerbell watch.

Choke hazards continue to send kids to the emergency room. The group advises parents to avoid anything with parts that will fit inside an empty toilet paper roll.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission has a product safety database that can be found at www.saferproducts.gov.

Police Log

One person was taken to the hospital with head injuries after a two vehicle accident yesterday at the Miami Avenue intersection. A driver was cited for failure to yield.

Globe Police arrested 22 year old Joseph Gomez for domestic/assault and criminal damage.

Several people were arrested yesterday morning at the Hill Street Safeway. 32 year old Tio Whitehead had outstanding misdemeanor warrants from Globe PD. 29 year old Erwin Patterson of Tempe had an outstanding felony warrant from the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. 31 year old Jay Antonio had outstanding warrants from Globe PD and a felony warrant from the US Marshall’s Office.

23 year old Michael Falquez was arrested yesterday for driving with a suspended license.

18 year old Albre Altaha was arrested for underage consumption and possession of alcohol at Globe High School.

Officers are investigating a burglary from a vehicle at a business on Broad Street.

Gila County Sheriff’s Deputies took reports of a a single vehicle accident involving cattle in the Pinto Valley area and a burglary at a residence on Sharps Road.

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Thanksgiving Travel Expected to Hit Four-Year High

More than 800,000 Arizonans will be traveling out of state over the holiday weekend. AAA Arizona says that’s a 4.6% increase over last year. AAA expects a 4% increase in travel nationwide.

Travelers will experience higher prices than last year. Gas is about 20 cents highher per gallon and hotel rooms are nearly $10 more expensive per night. Air fares are up about 20%.

AAA Offers 'Tipsy Tow' Wednesday Night

AAA Arizona and the Beverage Alcohol Community Information Council are offering the Tipsy Tow service again Wednesday night.

Thanksgiving Eve is becoming a popular celebration night. Drivers, passengers, bartenders and restaurant managers can call 1-800-AAA-HELP (1-800-222-4357) for a free ride home. The one way ride will be provided for the driver, one passenger and their vehicle, up to 10 miles.

DPS Out in Force Over Thanksgiving Holiday

The Arizona Department of Public Safety will be out in force on Wednesday as part of Operation Safe Passage.

The day before Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year and Operation Safe Passage is designed to get drivers to their destinations safely.

DPS officers will be stationed every 10 miles on Interstates 8, 10, 17 and 40 in rural areas and about every two miles in metropolitan areas.

DPS says the goal is to be able to respond to traffic incidents quickly and execute a “zero tolerance” approach to traffic infractions such as speeding, unsafe lane changes and following other cars too closely.

Miami Public Hearings

The Town of Miami will hold two public hearings in December to consider a Resolution proposing an alternative expenditure limitation—the home rule option—and submitting it to Miami voters.

The public hearings will be held on Monday, December 12 and Monday, December 26 at 6:30pm at Miami Town Hall.

The Council may vote to approve the resolution following the second public hearing.

Miami Elections

The Town of Miami will hold a Primary Election on March 13, 2012. The General Election will be on May 15.

Three Council seats are open. The Home Rule Option will be on the General Election ballot on May 15.

Information and candidate packets are available at Miami Town Hall. Candidate packets must be turned in by 5:pm December 14.

The deadline to register for the Primary Election is February 12. April 16 is the deadline to register for the General Election.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle accident yesterday morning on Hackney Avenue. One car was towed from the scene. A driver was cited for failure to control speed to avoid a collision.

Two people were arrested after a fight last night at a residence on East Oak. 18 year old Terisa Lupe was charged with threats and intimidation, diorderly conduct and aggravated assault. 40 year old Jacqueline Mull was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

36 year old Victor Morales was arrested at a traffic stop for DUI.

37 year old Shannon Champney was arrested on two warrants for driving with a suspended license.

Officers are investigating a domestic disturbance on Hackney Hill; a report of harassing phone calls at a business on Hagen Road; and a theft at a residence on Broad Street.

Gila Ciounty Sheriff’s Deputies arrested two people after a domestic disturbance on Lancaster Street. 23 year old Emiliano Brewer and 21 year old Brina Brewer were both charged with domestic violenece/assault.

Deputies are investigating criminal damage at Apache Trail Mobile Home Park; criminal damage in the area of Copper Street; and a burglary at Holiday Hills Mobile Home Park.

Obituaries

Julia J. Grinder of Globe passed away Sunday at Copper Mountain Inn. She was 82. She is survived by her children Julia Faye Grinder, Sharon Taylor, Lela Ortiz and Shirley Hammer; her brother; 2 sisters; 7 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchidlren.
Visitation for Julia J. Grinder will be Friday at 9:am at Miles Funeral Services Globe. The funeral is at 10:00.

Glen Alan Vickers passed away November 18 at his home in Globe. He was 68. He is survived by his children Alan and Darrin Vickers, and Dana Deatherage; his brothers Hugh and Zed Vickers; his sisters Tennie Davis, Sue Bilson and Betty Tucker; 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service for Glen Vickers will be held Saturday at 11:am at Globe Christian center.

Vera J. Williams of Peridot passed away November 17 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Tucson. She was 55. She is survived by her son; her daughter; 8 sisters; 3 brothers; and 5 grandchildren.
The wake for Vera Williams will be Saturday at 6:am at San Carlos LDS Church. The funeral is Saturday at 1:pm.

Monday, November 21, 2011

San Carlos Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Tuesday

The San Carlos Community Thanksgiving Dinner is Tuesday at 11:am in front of the Tribal Administration Building.

Salt River Canyon Wilderness Rafting Permit Applications Available Online

Rafting permit applications for the Salt River Canyon Wilderness are now available for the 2012 season. Applications are submitted online at www.SaltRiverpermits.com.

A drawing will be conducted after the application period. Select applicants will have the opportunity to buy a permit for $125.

A Forest Service permit is required from March 1 through May 15 to raft the portion of the river which flows through the Salt River Canyon Wilderness.

ADOT Says Allow Extra Time for Holiday Travel

The Arizona Department of Transportation says that no construction closures are scheduled over the holiday weekend beginning Wednesday afternoon.

ADOT still encourages drivers to allow extra travel time during peak holiday travel periods and to use extra caution in existing work zones.

You can find highway condition updates at az511.gov, azdot.gov, or by dialing 5-1-1 on your telephone.

Candidates for Globe Mayor and Council

Candidate packets for Mayor and City Council are available until December 14 at Globe City Hall.

So far three candidates are running for Mayor: Fernando Shipley, Terence Wheeler and James Gillette. James Haley has filed for District 1; Thea Wilshire and C.M. Humphrey for District 2; and Carmen Casillas for District 5.

Community Thanksgiving Day Dinner

The Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be served Thursday from noon until 2:pm at St. Paul’s Methodist Church. The annual dinner is sponsored by the Ministerial Association and the Salvation Army with contributions from the Dream Manor Inn and Joe’s Broad Street Grill. It is free to the public.

If you would like to volunteer or if you have questions about the event call 425-2340.

Volunteers will deliver meals to the home bound between 10:am and noon. If you know soemeone who needs to have a meal delivered, call St. Paul’s Methodist Church.

Our Lady's St. Vincent de Paul Thanksgiving Dinner

Our Lady’s St. Vincent de Paul Thanksgiving Day Dinner will be served from 3 to 7:pm. Everyone is welcome and there is no charge.

For information call 473-3568.

Police Log

Miami Police arrested 24 year old Albert Pacheco for disorderly conduct.

Globe Police arrested 23 year old Whitney Antonio for false reporting to law enforcement.

32 year old Waylon Cobb was arrested on failure to pay warrants for possession of drug paraphernalia, assault, driving with a suspended license and criminal damage.

45 year old James Sutton was arrested Saturday night for aggravated DUI and open container.

Officers are investigating a missing person report and shoplifting at the Super Stop.

Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48 year old Richard Marin and 35 year old David Hilker in connection with a stolen cement mixer. Marin also had a warrant for reckless burning and criminal damage.

31 year old Kevin Fraze was arrested for driving with a suspended license and a contempt of court warrant for DUI.

Deputies are investigating the theft of a red and grey Yamaha Raptor from a residence on Russell Road; a theft of a bicycle from a residence on El Camino; a burglary at a residence on Highway 188; and a report of threats that were made at a residence on Malachite Lane.

Friday, November 18, 2011

Globe Council Meets Monday

Globe City Council meets Monday at 6:pm. They will discuss an amendment to the City Code reflecting new council district boundaries.

The Council will consider an amendment to the City Code relating to off street parking.

Globe Library Will Be Closed for Thanksgiving

The Globe Public Library will close at 5:30pm on Wednesday, November 23 and will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday. The library will reopen at 9:am on Monday, November 28.

The library will also be closed on Wednesday, November 30 so that the staff can attend training at the Arizona State Library Conference.

Globe Library 'Like New' Book Sale

The Globe Public Library is having a “Like New” Book Sale from now through December 17. The books are in excellent condition and cost $2 for paperbacks and $3 for hardcover.

The library is also accepting cans of food or nonperishable items in exchange for fines until Decmber 17. One item donated will equal $1 in fines.

Christmas Concert at Center for the Arts

The Copper Cities Community Players will presnt their annual Christmas Concert to benefit the Cobre Valley Center for the Arts on Saturday, December 3.

The 2:pm matinee is $15 and the 7:pm evening performance is $20, which will be followed by a lavish holiday reception in the Governor’s Room, included in the price.

Tickets for the annual production go quickly so call 425-0884 to purchase tickets.

A limited number of season tickets for the Copper Cities Community Players are also available.

Local Firefighters Will 'Ring the Bells' for the Salvation Army

The fire fighters of Globe-Miami will be “ringing the bells” for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Program next Friday, November 25, from 10 until 6. They will be at Walmart, Fry’s and both Safeway stores.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a two vehicle collision yesterday in the Miami Post Office.parking lot. One of the drivers drove away but was quickly located.

No injuries were reported in an accident yesterday afternoon at Kaiser Crossing.

Ohio State Highway Patrol arrested 29 year old Daniel Webster of Globe on a failure to appear warrant for theft of means of transportation.

Globe Police arrested 36 year old Myron Cly for disorderly conduct after a disturbance last night in the area of Holly Street.

33 year old Katie Shaffer was booked and released for shoplifting at the Smoke ‘Em shop on Wednesday.

18 year old Alex Rodriguez and 20 year old Joshua Ordorica were booked, cited and released for underage consumption.

37 year old Robert Rodriguez was arrested yesterday on an outstanding child support warrant.

Officers are investigating a report of harassment taken at Church’s Chicken.

Miami Police are investigating a report of a man taking batteries from parked cars at a local car dealership.

Gila County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a report of criminal damage at a business near Live Oak.

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Burro and Bake Sale

Globe Tops AZ #40 club is having a burro and bake sale Friday from 8:am until 2:pm at the Gila County Courthouse.

Free Medicare Seminar

Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center is having a free Medicare Educational Seminar on Friday at 9:30am in Conference Room B. Learn about changes in Medicare for 2012.

Miami Schools Closed Next Week for Thanksgibving

The Miami Unified School District will be closed Monday, November 21 through Friday, November 25 for their Thanksgiving Break. School will resume on Monday, November 28.

Only 38% of Arizonans Born Here

The Phoenix Business Journal reports that only 38% of Arizona’s population was born here. That puts Arizona second on the list of states with the lowest number of residents living in the state in which they were born.

New US Census data shows that on average, 59% of Americans live in the state of their birth. The state with the highest percentage of natives in the population is Louisiana at 78.8%. The lowest is Alaska—the only state below Arizona.

Arizona is the number two state with people moving from California. Texas was number one.

Fuel Prices Down From Last Week.

AAA Arizona says that fuel prices declined slightly during the past week. The statewide average for a gallon of unleaded regular gasoline is a little more than $3.31 a gallon. That’s 3.1 cents less than last week. The national average is a little more than $3.40 a gallon, a drop of 2.8 cents.

Here in Globe-Miami prices are around $3.35.

Today Is the 'Great American Smokeout'

Today is the 36th annual Great American Smokeout. The American Cancer Society has several ways to help people kick the habit, including new features on social media.

Free phone coaching is available at 1-800-227-2345. Help is also available at 1-800-55-66-222. Tips and tools are online at cancer.org/smokeout and ashline.org/help. You’ll find these phone numbers and links on the KIKO News weblog.

The American Cancer Society is also on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

For information about Gila County’s Tobacco Free Environment Program call Christine Rocha at 402-8789.

Miami Wastewater Advisory Board Meets Today

The Town of Miami Wastewater Advisory Board meets today (Thursday) at 4:00 at Miami Town Hall.

Police Log

Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 21 year old Jacob Stowe on a probation violation warrant for attempted forgery.

Gila County Constables Office arrested 37 year old Heather Gilmore on a failure to pay warrant for issuing a bad check.

A hit and run report was taken at a residence on Glendale Avenue.

Globe Police arrested 46 year old Debra Whittaker for threats and intimidation.

44 year old Richard Owens was arrested for driving with a suspended license.

Officers are investigating an assault that took place at High Desert Middle School; a hit and run accident on Saguaro Drive; a shoplifting report taken at a business on Highway 60; a theft from a business on North Broad Street; and a burglary at a residence on Devereaux.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Blood Drive on Thursday

A Community Blood Drive will take place on Thursday from 9:am until 5:pm at the Freeport McMoRan building in the Cobre Valley Shopping Center.

To make a donation appointment call 1-877--827-4376 or visit UnitedBloodServices.org.

AFB Says Thanksgiving Dinner Will Cost 13% More Than Last Year

The Arizona Farm Bureau says that the cost of your Thanksgiving meal will be 13% higher than it was last year.

This year’s turkey dinner with all the trimmings will cost $50.06 for an Arizona family of 10. Without factoring in store coupons or specials, the cost of a 16 pound turkey purchased in Arizona this year is $21.28, or $1.33 a pound. That’s an increase of 28 cents a pound. But this year’s meal is still $2.75 cheaper than it was three years ago when the total was $52.81.

The 2011 Thanksgiving meal cost estimate is the result of the Arizona Farm Bureau’s annual informal survey of the prices of basic food items found on the Thanksgiving dinner table.

This year the Farm Bureau also has an Organic Price Survey on the same food items. An Organic Thanksgiving dinner will cost more than twice the amount of the non-organic purchase of the same items.

For more information visit www.azfb.org.

AARP Members Send Millions of Petitions to Congress

AARP has announced that it has collected more than 6.5 million petitions urging Congress not to cut Social Security and Medicare benefits. Members and volunteers are delivering the petitions directly to members of Congress. Nearly 25,000 petitions will be delivered to the offices of Senators Jon Kyl and John McCain. Petions will also be delivered to Arizona’s Congressional Representatives including 3,600 petitions to 1st District Representative Paul Gosar.

For more information visit www.aarp.org/protectseniors .

Police Log

A 14 year old juvenile was referred to juvenile probation after causing a disturbance at High Desert Middle School.

20 year old Anthony Gonzales was arrested for disorderly conduct and an outstanding warrant at Copper Country Mobile Home Park.

19 year old Nickolas Van Cleave was arrested for shoplifting at Walmart.

28 year old Joel Amezcua was arrested last night for DUI.

38 year old John Dalton was arreeted on a warrant for driving with a suspended license.

Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 25 year old Michael Tarango on warrants for disorderly conduct/fighting and driving with a suspended license.

A Gila County School Resource Deputy took a report of threats that occurred Monday at Charles Bejarano School.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

San Carlos Thanksgiving Dinner November 22

The annual San Carlos Community Thanksgiving Dinner is at 11:am on Tuesday, November 22 in front of the Tribal Administration building.

Everyone is invited to help serve food and to clean up. Individuals or groups are invited to provide entertainment.

For information contact San Carlos Apache Tribal Social Services

Candidate Packets Available at Miami Town Hall

Candidate packets are now available at Miami Town Hall. There are three council seats open in this election cycle.

Packets are due back to Miami Town Hall by 5:pm on December 14. Candidates must submit no less than 15 signatures and no more than 30 to complete the process..

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday afternoon at Ash and Hill Streets.

Miami Police responded to a disturbance on Merritt Street and found damage to an apartment. Officers were told that the person who caused the damage had left the area but they had reason to believe that he was still in the apartment. After a search they found him hiding under a bed. 24 year old Robert Lintner was arrested for the criminal damage. Lintner was also a suspect in a stolen vehicle report. He was charged with theft of means of transportation.

Officers responded to a fight on Adonis Avenue. 22 year old Lorenzo Puebla was arrested for DUI. Officers are also trying to locate another suspect.

Globe Police arrested 34 year old Adam Contreras for shoplifting.

Officers are invstigating a theft at a residence on Manzanita; a report of criminal trespass on S. Broad Street; and shoplifting at the downtown Safeway.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Memory Screenings at Globe Active Adult Center

Tuesday is National Memory Screening Day. Free, confidential memory screenings will be available at the Globe Active Adult Center at 10:30am. Carol Wilson from the Pinal-Gila Council for Seniors will discuss “normal memory loss” at 11:am.

Supervisors Meet Tuesday

The Gila County Board of Supervisors meets Tuesday at 10:am. The agenda includes the annual property tax sale of real property deeded to the state of Arizona by Treasurer’s Deed in the year 2011.

Police Log

Two people received minor injuries in a two vehicle accident Friday afternoon on Highway 60 in front of Cobre Valley Motors. Both cars were towed from the scene.

Miami Police arrested 22 year old Joseph Wilson for criminal trespass, false information to a police officer and violation of a court order.

19 year old Breelyn Cano was arrested for criminal trespass.

Globe Police arrested 50 year old Danny Dalton last night after a domestic incident at a residence on Yucca.

Officers are investigating a vehicle breakin on East Mesquite; criminal damage to a vehicle on 2nd Street; criminal damage at a residence on Euclid; a broken window at a residence on Broad Street; criminal damage at a business on South Street; and a hit and run accident in the Walmart parking lot.

Tucson Police arrested. 34 year old Jerad Crockett of Globe on a failure to appear warrant for burglary and aggravated assault.

Obituary

Fred Lee Botkin of Miami passed away November 11 at St. Joseph’s Medical Center. He was 70. He is survived by his wife Karen; 7 children, including Sheila Hibdon of Claypool; his brother; 2 sisters; 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.
Visitation for Fred Botkin will be Saturday from 1 to 3:pm at Miles Funeral Services Globe. The funeral is at 3:00.

Friday, November 11, 2011

Globe Candidate Packets Available Monday

City of Globe candidate packets for Mayor and Districts 1,2 and 5 will be available starting Monday at the Globe City Clerk’s Office. The packets will be available until December 14.

For more information call 425-7146, Ext 21.

Globe Council Meets Monday

Globe City Council meets Monday at 6:pm. They’ll consider Intergovernmental Agreements with the State of Arizona relating to the restoration of the Historic Railroad Depot, bridge inspections and building plan inspections.

The Council will hear presentations introducing new police officers John Rittenbach and Edward McGuire, and recognizing Reserve Firefighters Barbie and Dan Morton.

Miami Council Meets Monday at 6:30

Miami Town Council meets Monday at 6:30pm. They will consider a Grant In Kind Agreement between the Arizona State Library and the Miami Memorial Library for the Arizona Job Assistance Center Project funded through the Broadband Technology Opportunites Program.

They will approve an Amended Interim Emergency Fire Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Globe for emergency fire protection and administrative services for one year effective October 4, 2011.

The Council will hear a presentation about future Genesis projects and direct staff to obtain information about Genesis becoming a separate entity from the Town of Miami with non-profit status.

Miami School Board Meets Monday

The Miami School Board meets Monday at 6:30pm in the Miami High School Library.

Arizonans Spent 7.3% of Income on Fuel in October

Fuel prices remained relatively flat this week. The average Arizona price per gallon dropped 0.6 cents to a little over $3.33. The nationwide average rose 1.3 cents to just under $3.44. The Globe-Miami average price is around $3.35.

While pump prices have gained stability, AAA Arizona says that the average Arizona household spent 7.3% of its income last month on fuel. That’s about $2.98. This is a nearly half percent decrease from the pump price peak in May, but Arizonans are still paying 2% more for gas than they did this time last year.

AARP Driver Safety Program Free to Veterans in November

Arizona’s half-million-plus veterans are being offered a chance to take free driver safety classes during November. AARP is waiving the entrance fees for all military personnel of all ages. You may also qualify for car insurance discounts once you complete the course.

Since 1979 the AARP driver safety program has helped more than 13 million drivers learn safety strategies and adapt to physical and cognitive changes related to aging.

For more information and class registration call 1-888-AARP-NOW.

Police Log

Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested 56 year old Gerald Hall of Claypool on a Maricopa County failure to appear warrant for trespassing.

Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Office arrested 36 year old David Haynie of Claypool on a probation violation warrant for endangerment.

A School Resource Officer took a report of an assault that occurred at Miami Jr. High School.

Globe Police are investigating a theft at a business on highway 60.

Obituaries

Debra J. Patten has passed away at the age of 52. She is survived by her son; 2 daughters; her father; and 2 grandchildren.
The wake for “Debbie” Patten will be Sunday at 6:am at Cutter Church. The funeral is at 10:am.

Deborah Ann Goode of San Carlos passed away Sunday at Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center. She was 37. She is survived by her daughter; 3 sons; 4 brothers; and her sister.
The wake for Deborah Goode is Sunday at 4:pm at the Goode residence. The funeral is Monday at 1:pm at San Carlos Miracle Church.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Benefit Dinner and Dance for Frances Sanchez

A Benefit Dinner and Dance will be held Saturday for Frances Sanchez who was diagnosed with colon cancer in September. Money raised will be used for medical expenses. The cost is $15 donation per person over 12.

The dinner starts at 5:pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall. The dance begins at 7:00.

San Carlos Veterans Parade Saturday

The 45th annual San Carlos Veterans Parade begins at 10:am Saturday in downtown San Carlos.

Miami Veterans Day Events

The Miami Veterans Day Parade starts tomorrow morning (Friday) around 10:15. It will be followed by a Ceremony at 11:00 at Veterans Memorial Park on Sullivan Street.

A cookout follows the ceremony with hot dogs, chips, water and soda. There is no charge but donations will be accepted.

The band Jaded will play for two hours following the ceremony

FBI and BIA Looking for San Carlos Woman Charged with Theft and Embezzlement

A federal grand jury in Phoenix recently indicted 33 year old Holly Faye Youvella of San Carlos for Embezzlement and Theft of Tribal Funds. After she was indicted on October 25, an arrest warrant was issued but the FBI and the BIA have been unable to locate her.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Holly Faye Youvella, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at 602-279-5511 or the Bureau of Indian Affairs at 928-338-5371.

Youvella is accused of embezzling more than $260,000 when she was bookkeeper for the Peridot Shopping Center. She cashed more than 200 fraudulent checks drawn from the shopping center’s checking account. She is also accused of stealing more than $4,000 by directing fraudulent electronic payments from the shopping center’s account to personal credit and utility accounts.

Peridot Shopping Center is owned by the San Carlos Apache Tribe.

Convictions for Embezzlement and Theft of Tribal Funds carry a maximum penalty of 5 years, a $250,000 fine or both.

Free Lunch for Veterans Today at Miami Senior Center

The Miami Senior Center is hosting a Veterans Day linch today (Thursday) free of charge for veterans and their spouses. Hot dogs and hamburgers will be cooked outside in the new barbecue grill area.

Music will be provided by Jose Sanchez and the Diamonds starting at 11:am.

Miami Public Meeting to Discuss Brownfield Grant Application

The Town of Miami is having a Public Information Meeting tonight (Thursday) to discuss a Brownfield Site Assessment Grant Application. The meeting is tonight from 6:30 until 7:30 at the Miami Senior Center.

Brownfield Grants are used for environmntal assessment and cleanup.

Police Log

Yesterday morning the Gila County Task Force conducted a traffic stop at the Highway 60/70 junction. One undocumented alien was detained at the Gila County Jail.

19 year old Jason Miller was arrested at a traffic stop on a warrant for assault and criminal trespass. He was taken to the Gila County Jail. The juvenile driver was cited and released for driving without a license.

20 year old Edward Avalos was arrested yesterday for DUI.

Deputies are investigating a theft of utilities and criminal damage in the area of Marion Canyon.

Globe Police are investigating a theft at a business on Ash Street and a theft at a residence on Main Street.

Obituary

Hyidana P. Golston of Globe passed away Saturday. She was 78. She is survived by 2 daughters; four grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren.
A Memorial Service for Hyidana Golston will be held tomorrow (Friday) at 1:pm at Miles Funeral Services Globe

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Voters in Seven Cities Reject Photo Enforcement

Voters in eight cities and three states cast ballots on Tuesday to decide if red light cameras and speed cameras should be used in their communities. Seven of the eight races went against the use of photo ticketing.

TheNewspaper.com reports that Redflex Traffic Systems of Australia contributed at least $108,000 to the campaign for the cameras in Garfield Heights and South Euclid, Ohio. But the unfunded effort to put a stop to the cameras won 55% of the vote.

Local officials in East Cleveland, however, succeeded by using strong-arm tactics to badger voters into supporting cameras. Off duty police officers, in uniform and with their police cruisers parked on the curb, were ordered to go door to door to convince residents to vote to return the cameras. The mayor mailed layoff notices to 36 police officers and 14 firefighters saying the city would have to fire them if it lost photo ticketing revenue. This worked and the city got 54% of the vote, the only victory for the cameras on Tuesday.

Earlier this year, traffic cameras were voted out of Los Angeles, Houston and Albuquerque.

Miami Hardscrabble Program Tonight

The Miami Hardscrabble series continues tonight (Wednesday) at 7:00 at the Miami Memorial Library. Linda Gross will talk about “Chinese in Early Globe-Miami.”
There is no charge for this series of programs. Light refreshments will be provided following the program.

Benefit Dinner and Dance on Saturday

A benefit dinner and dance is being held on Saturday for Frances Sanchez who was diagnosed with colon cancer in September. Money raised from this will be used for existing medical bills and future treatments. The dinner starts at 5:pm at the Knights of Columbuus Hall. The dance starts at 7:00.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in an accident yesterday afternoon at 7th Street and Ash.

Yesterday morning Gila County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a woman screaming at Alhambra Mobile Home Park. 22 year old Alexander Juvera was arrested for domestic violence/aggravated assault and a failure to appear warrant for aggravated assault with a weapon.

A burglary report was taken yesterday morning at Holiday Hills Mobile Home Park.

A Globe Police officer took a report of a burglary that occurred at a residence on Main Street.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

52nd Street Jazz Band Community Concert November 14



The Globe-Miami Ciommunity Concert Association hosts the 52nd Street Jazz Band on Monday, November 14. The performance will be in the Miami High School Auditorium at 7:pm.

The 52nd Street Jazz Band is based in Phoenix and plays “Chicago Style” jazz. Their music includes most of the tunes that trdaitional jazz bands play plus many of the Great American Songbook selections from the 1930’s.

Season tickets are still available for $35 for adults and $10 for students. Family and single parent packages are also available. They may be purchased at the concert on November 14.

Arizona Poor Students Closing Reading Test Gap with Higher-Income Kids

A recent federal education report shows that Arizona is one of the few states that has narrowed the achievement gap in reading between higher- and lower- income students.

The Nation’s Report Card released last month by the US Education Department says that lower-income students that are eligible for free or reduced cost school lunches improved their reading scores while scores for better-off students remained steady.

But whatever income category or grade the students who took the test were in, Arizona’s reading scores are still among the 10 worst in the country.

New Numbers Show Poverty at New High

The US Census Bureau has released new figures relating to the US poverty rate. The numbers are the result of a new system that takes into account rising medical costs and other expenses. This includes out of pocket medical care, child care and commuting. The figures also take into account non-cash government aid when calculating income, such as food stanps and tax credits.

The results show a record number of Americans living in poverty—16% or 49.1 million.
Americans 65 or older had the largest increases in poverty under the new experimental formula. They nearly doubled to 15.9%, or 1 in 6. This is because rising Medcare premiums, deductibles and expenses for prescriptiion drugs are not considered in the official rate.

And for the first time, the number of Hispanics living in poverty surpassed the number of African Americans, 28.2% to 25.4%.

Economists have long criticized the official poverty rate as inadequate, but they differ widely on better ways to calculate it. This experimental measure is based partly on recommendations made by the National Academy of Sciences.

For more information go to www.census.gov.

'Math Wizardry" Family Night at Bejarano School

Bejarano Elementary School is having a family night of math games tonight (Tuesday) at 6:00.

Police Log

Miami Police arrested 37 year old Heather Mastin for assault after a fight yesterday on Roosevelt Street.

Globe Police are investigating a domestic disorderly conduct complaint taken at the El Rey Motel; criminal damage to a vehicle at Walmart; a burglary and criminal damage on High Street; a theft at Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center; a theft at a residence on Maple Street; and a theft from a residence on Bancroft Street

Obituary

Billie Joyce Somerville passed away Sunday. She was 78. She is survived by 3 children, including Teresa Spehar of Miami; 2 brothers, including Gary Andress of Globe; 7 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Visitation for Billie Somerville will be Friday at 6:30pm at Lamont Mortuary. The funeral is Saturday at 11:am at Trinity Baptist Church
Memorial donations may be made to Trinity Baptist Church or Christian Veterinary Mission in Seattle.

Monday, November 7, 2011

More Research Shows Links Between Media Violence and Aggression

Studies are continuing to show that children exposed to television and video game violence tend to show aggressive behavior.

KTAR.com reports that a recent study of more than 200 middle school students showed that even the use of profanity in media can cause them to become more physically aggressive. Brigham Young University researchers found that exposure to foul language had the same effect as exposure to physical violence.

The researchers suggest that open communication with children about this and anything else helps them become healthy and well-adjusted.

Miami Council Meets Tonight

Miami Town Council is having a Special Meeting tonight. It starts at 6:30.

Lane Restrictions This Week on US 60 Near Superior

The Arizona Department of Transportation is making improvements to the Queen Creek bridge on US 60 just east of Superior. Lane restrictions will take place between 6:30am until 4:30pm today (Monday) through Thursday and until Midnight on Wednesday. Expect delays of up to 15 minutes.

Globe Parks and Recreation Committee Meets Tonight

The Globe Parks and Recreation Committee meets tonight (Monday) at 6:00. They’ll discuss possible wildlife and eco-tourism promotions and discuss fall recreation plans.

Police Log

Yeserday Globe Police arrested 23 year old Vanessa Bullis for child abuse.

Veronica Williams was arrested for disorderly conduct Saturday after an incident on Kline Street.

47 year old Edgar Naeter was arrested on Friday for criminal damage.

Officers are investigating a burglary at a residence on Kline Street; a burglary at a residence on Silver Street; criminal damage at a residence on Devereaux; criminal damage at a residence on 1st Avenuea; and a broken window at a business on South Broad Street.

A Gila County Sheriff’s Deputy cited and released 19 year old Jesse Miller for driving with a suspended license.

The Sheriff’s Office is investigating a domestic incident in the area of Scott Avenue and a theft of a bike in the area of Locomotive Drive.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Cenpatico Awards $14,010 to Two Globe Programs

Cenpatico of Arizona is awarding $14,010 to the City of Globe. A little more than $13,000 will be used for rent by the Latino Community Arts Program serving students in grades 4 through 12. An additional $850 will go to the Boys and Girls Club of Globe for a Girls Health and Life Skills program.

As part of its new contracts with the Arizona Health Services Department, Cenpatico committed to giving a percentage of its after-tax profits for community reinvestment. Cenpatico sought proposals from community organizations earlier this year.

Cenpatico is the Regional Behavioral Health Authority for Gila, Cochise, Graham, Greenleee, La Paz, Pinal, Santa Cruz and Yuma counties.

Tri City Fire District Conducting Food Drive

The Tri City Fire District is conducting a food drive to help the Community Food Bank that was recently vandalized.

Bring non-perishable food items to the Tri City Fire station beginning Monday. They’re located on E. Broadway in Claypool.

Globe Candidate Packets Available November 14

City of Globe candidate packets will be available at Globe City Hall beginning Monday, November 14. Packets will be available until December 14. The Primary Election is on March 13, 2012.

For more information contact Globe City Clerk Gina Paul at 425-7146, ext. 21.

Pump Price Lull May Be Ending

AAA Arizona says that the lull in pump price movement may be coming to an end. Even though this week’s average is almost a cent less than last week, it has gained a little more than a penny since Monday. The Arizona statewide average for a gallon of unleaded regular is a little over $3.34. The national average is a little more than $3.43.

Here in Globe-Miami prices are around $3.38 a gallon.

Police Log

Yesterday morning Canyon Fire Department and Tri City Ambulance responded to a residence on Deer Farm Road in Dripping Springs. A truck ran through a fence. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. His name is being withheld pending notification of relatives.

Globe Police are investigating criminal damage at a residence on Jesse Hayes Road; shoplifting at Walmart; and a burglary at a residence on Prickly Pear.

Obituary

Francisco Ramirez of Miami passed away Tuesday at Banner Baywood Medical Center. He was 64. He is survived by his wife Betty; his daughter Denise Lopez of Globe; his brother; and 5 grandchildren.
Visitation for Francisco Ramirez will be Thursday, November 10 at 9:am at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church. Rosary is at 9:30 and Mass is at 10:00.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

'Mining Rocks' Saturday at Bullion Plaza

"Mining Rocks 2011" will be held Saturday from 1 to 5:pm at the Bullion Plaza. There will be mining displays and equipment, exhibits, food and crafts booths, and entertainment.

'Our Ladies Fiesta' Sunday from 9 to 2

Our Lady’s Fiesta 2011 will be held Sunday from 9:am until 2:pm at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church.

There will be home made food, games for the kids, crafts and sweet booths, raffles and the Gift Basket Auction.

Everyone is invited.

'History of Arizona Eastern Railway' at First Friday Program

Donna Anderson will talk about the “History of Arizona Eastern Railway” at tomorrow’s First Friday program at the Miami Library. The program starts at 6:30pm. It covers the period from the late 1880’s until today.

There is no charge for the program and light refreshments will be served.

Latex Paint Recycle Day Saturday at Landfill

The Russell Gulch Landfill will coordinate a latex paint recycle day Saturday from 8:am until 1:pm.

You may bring your leftover latex paint for disposal or recycling. All unusable paint will be disposed of properly. The good paint will be bulked and redistributed.

For more information call the Landfill at 425-7470.

Gila County Submits Redistricting Plans to Justice Department

The Gila County Electiions Department has submitted the Gila County Supervisorial Redistricting Plan, the Community College Redistricting Plan and the Precinct Boundary and Polling Place Change Plan to the US Justice Department for preclearance under the Voting Rights Act.

Submission materials are available for public review at the Gila County Elections Department on Apache Avenue. Spanish and Apache translators are available to interpret the materials.

Questions or comments may be directed to the Gila County Elections Department at 402-8709.

'Math Wizardry' November 8 at Bejarano School

Bejarano Elementary School will have a family night of Math Wizardry on Tuesday at 6:pm. There will be math games for families to make and take. The PTO will have snacks available for purchase.

Police Log

A car hit a pedestrian last night on Highway 60 in front of Fry’s. The case is pending further investigation.

Globe Police arrested 72 year old Paul Chambers for domestic violence after a disturbance on 3rd Avenue.

30 year old Anson Kinney was arrested at a traffic stop yesterday morning for driving with a suspended license. Kinney also had an outstanding warrant.

Officers were dispatched to an alarm about 1:45 this morning at a business on North US 60. They found a damaged window. The case is pending further investigation.
Officers are also investigating a report of a stolen vehicle taken at a business on Highway 60, and criminal damage and theft at the Globe Municipal Building.

Gila County Sheriff’s Deputies booked a juvenile into the Detention Center after a domestic disturbance at Mountain Shadows Mobile Home Park.

Early Tuesday morning a deputy arrested 42 year old Maureen Dalton for DUI after an accident involving a vehicle and a mobile home at Mt. Shadows Mobile Home Park.

Gila County Task Force cited and released 37 year old David Tautimez on Tuesday for driving with a suspnded license.

Deputies are investigating a report of threats taken at the Triple Nichol and a burglary at a residence on Upper Pinal Creek Road.

Obituary

Lorraine Lee Rose of Globe passed away Sunday. She was 54. She is survived by 2 brothers and 2 aunts.
A Memorial Service for Lorraine Rose will be held tomorrow (Friday) at Noon at Miles Funeral Services Globe.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

CVRMC Art and Wine Auction

The Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center Foundation presents an Art and Wine Auction on Thursday. It starts at 6:pm at the Gila County Fairgrounds.

Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door.

For more information call 402- 1230.

Successful Cleanup in Miami

Last Saturday Globe Clean and Beautiful and the Miami Genesis group sponsored a clean up event in Miami. About 90 volunteers met in Miami and hauled away about 85 tons of trash and debris. An additional 20 tons of metal and brush were also removed.

The groups say this is one of the most successful community cleanups to date. They thank Freeport McMoRan for their help in making the event possible by sponsoring the landfill fees. In the past Gila County has sponsored the cleanups and provided equipmnt and waived the landfill fees. But the county was not able to do that this time due to the current state of the economy.

The cleanup was also made possible by local companies who provided the necessary heavy equipment and other local businesses who provided food for the volunteers.

Thanks to:

Tetra Tech for a dump truck and backhoe with operators
5D mining for 2 backhoes and operators
DalMolin for 2 dump trucks with operators
Oddonetto Construction for a dump and backhoe with operators
Town of Miami for a dump truck and backhoe with operators

And Fry's, Safeway, Walmart, Southwest Gas, Guayo's on the Trail, El Rey in Miami, Libby's El Rey, Chalos in Miami and La Casita in downtown Globe for providing food for the volunteers.

Arizona Figures Show Decrease in Registered Voters

Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett has released the latest voter registration figures. There are now 3,165,558 registered voters in Arizona. That’s a decrease of more than 46,000 since the last report in July. The decrease is believed to be due to Arizona counties’ routine maintenance of voter lists to purge inactive voters from the rolls.

Of the state’s 3.1 million voters, 1,124,173 are Republicans, 974,892 are Democrats and 1,037,450 have either registered with independent parties or have not designated a party preference.

Libertarians make up a little less than 1% of the state’s total registration. They total 23,913. The Green Party has 5,061 registered voters. And the Americans Elect Party has enrolled 69 voters since joining Arizona’s other recognized political parties earlier this year.

Bennett reminds voters that only those who have registered with a political party will be able to participate in the Presidential primary.

Police Log

Globe Police arrested 39 year old Douglas Porter at a traffic stop yesterday for two outstanding warrants. Porter was also charged with false reporting to a police officer.

Officers are investigating a burglary at a residence on Escalara Street.

Obituary

Soyla Rivera passed away Monday at her home in Globe. She was 98. She is survived by her daughter Helen Ybarra; her sister; 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 19 great great grandchildren.
Rosary for Soyla Rivera will be Friday at 9:30am at Holy Angels Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial follows at 10:00.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Social Security Payments Make Up 12% of All Gila County Income

A study by the Center for Rural Strategies shows that 12% of all Gila County income comes from Social Security. In 2009, this was a total of more than $201 million.

Gila County depends more on Social Security than the rest of the country. In 2009, 5.5% of total personal income in the US came from Social Security payments. The Arizona percentage was 6.1%.

More than 15,000 people in Gila County receive some form of Social Security payment That’s 29% of the county population.

Economists say Social Security payments are especially important to rural counties and small cities because most of the money is spent in the local community.

The US Congress is currently looking for ways to balance the federal budget and changes to Social security are being discussed. If benefits are cut—or if the eligibility age is increased—rural counties and small cities would be hurt the most.

Report Says Traffic Cameras Create Conflict Between Profits and Safety

A new report by the Arizona Public Interest Research Group says that the use of red light and speed traffic cameras produces a conflict between profits and safety.

The group says that payments to such companies such as Redflex and American Traffic Solutions are often based on a percentage of fines collected or the number of tickets written. This can create an incentive to write more tickets. Sometimes traffic camera contracts are written so that cities are prevented from retaining control over traffic policy decisions that might actually improve public safety. For example, PIRG says intersections can be made safer by longer yellow lights. But some contracts specifically forbid such actions.

Public News Service reports that companies spend a lot of money on lobbyists and political committees that work to defeat laws and ballot measures that would restrict or ban the cameras. PIRG says Redflex Camera Systems has bragged about their ability to to keep a ballot measure to ban the cameras off the Arizona ballot in 2010.

The jury is still out on the claim that traffic cameras make the roads safer. Some cities report a reduction in accidents while others report an increase. Still others report a decrease in accidents at first and then an increase.

Peoria, Avondale and Tempe have canceled their traffic camera contracts.

Globe has been using Redflex cameras since April. Last week the Miami Town Council voted unanimously to reject the use of Reflex cameras.

Read the complete report at arizonapirg.org.

Four New Special Arizona License Plates

The Arizona Department of Transportation has released four new special license plates.

The new plates are the Arizona Centennial, which benefits the Arizona Historical Advisory Commission; a Boy Scout plate, benefiting the Boy Scouts of America; the PBS plate which benefits public broadcast television in Arizona; and the Hunger Relief plate to benefit Arizona food banks.

The plates cost an extra $25 a year, with $17 going to the foundation that the plate benefits. They can be ordered at any MVD office or through the ADOT website.

'Fee-Free' Day at Tonto Forest November 11

Tonto National Forest recreation specialists have announced that they are joining with other agencies included under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act in hosting a final “fee-free” event for the year on Veteran’s Day, November 11.

Day use fees will be waived at all standard amenity fee sites operated by the forest on that day.

The Tonto Pass is required at all other times at more than 50 recreation sites. Information about the Tonto Pass fee program is available at the Tonto National Forest website, or by calling 602-225-5200.

Obituary

Wayne Antonio of Peridot passed away October 24. He was 44. He is survived by 4 children; 4 sisters; 2 brothers; and 6 grandchildren.
The wake for Wayne Antonio will be Friday at 4:pm at the Antonio residence. The funeral is Saturday at 1:pm at San Carlos Miracle Church.

Haak Resigns as Museum Director

Gila County Historical Museum Director Bill Haak announced his resignation yesterday at the museum’s Board of Directors meeting. Haak says it is time for him to enjoy traveling and devote more time to other interests. Haak has been the director of the museum for 13 years.

Author and historian Donna Anderson was appointed the new director, effective immediately.

Haak says he will remain a docent and work on other projects at the museum to help make the transition easier.

Burglars Steal Office Items and Destroy Food Donations at Food Bank

The Globe branch of the Gila Community Food Bank was burglarized on Sunday. An unknown person or persons broke in, destroyed an undetrminable amount of donated food items, and stole essential office items. The burglar or burglars also stole the Food Bank van and maliciously wrecked it near the Globe Cemetery. Volunteers now have to use their personal vehicles to collect food for the hungry.

In a press release yesterday the Gila Community Food Bank said these destructive actions will not stop them from serving more than 500 hungry families in the Globe-Miami area.

Police Log

Nobody was hurt in a one vehicle accident late yesterday morning near the El Rey Motel.

There were no injuries in an accident yesterday afternoon near Fry’s. One person was cited for failure to control a vehicle to avoid an accident.

Globe Police are investigating a burglary at a business on Pine Street; a vehicle burglary at a residence on Surmont Street; and criminal damage at a residence on Apache Street.

Obituary

Soyla Rivera passed away Monday morning at her home in Globe. She was 98.
Services for Soyla Rivera are pending with Lamont Mortuary.