On March 10th, the City of Phoenix and Pinal County were named winners of the “Sunny Award”, marking them as some of the best state and local government websites for transparency by Sunshine Review, a pro transparency organization.

Award winners are among only 39 websites in America earning an “A” transparency grade from more than 5,000 analyzed. Sunshine Review’s “Transparency Checklist” analyzes websites for information about budgets, meetings, elected and administrative officials, permits and zoning, audits, contracts, lobbying, public records, and taxes. The “Checklist” measures what content is available on government websites against what should be provided.

“Sunny Award winners deserve recognition for making information available to citizens and for setting a transparency standard that all governments can, and should, meet,” said Mike Barnhart, President of Sunshine Review. “Access to information empowers every citizen to hold government officials accountable for the conduct of the public's business and the spending of taxpayers’ money. Official accountability is the corner stone of self government and liberty.”

Sunshine Review is a non-profit organization dedicated to state and local government transparency. The Sunshine Review wiki collects and shares transparency information and uses a 10-point “Transparency Checklist" to evaluate the content of every state and more than 5,000 local government websites. Sunshine Review collaborates with individuals and organizations throughout America in the cause of an informed citizenry and an accountable government.

Since its inception in 2008, Sunshine Review has analyzed the websites of all 50 states, more than 3,140 counties, 805 cities, and 1,560 school districts.

The Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant will begin this year with a public-invited dress rehearsal on Tuesday, March 23rd, with the presentation in English at 7 pm and Spanish at 8 pm. All subsequent performances begin at 8 pm, with Spanish presentations Friday and Saturday, March 26th and 27th, and English presentations on Wednesday and Thursday, March 24th and 25th and Tuesday through Saturday March 30th through April 3rd. American Sign Language translation will be offered March 24th through 27th.

The Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant is presented on the north lawn in front of the Mesa Temple Visitors Center at 525 W. Main in Mesa. The pageant is free of charge and free parking is available on the adjacent streets. Tour bus parking is available in the lot on the east side of the Visitors’ Center. For more information about the Mesa Arizona Easter Pageant, visit easterpageant.org.

Yesterday, a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony was held for the first new fire station to open in Mesa since 2004. Fire Station 218 is located at 845 N. Alma School Road in west Mesa will mean faster response times and alleviate current crews from being stretched even thinner with their already heavy load as has been the case.

“The new fire station is state-of-the-art and was built on time and under budget,” Mesa Mayor Scott Smith said. “We are especially grateful to the citizens of Mesa who approved the bond project to build this station.”

The fire station, which cost $2.5 million, has approx. 12,000 square feet and three bays for fire trucks and equipment. It will also house a paramedic engine company.

“This new facility will relieve overcrowding at Fire Station 203 and allow the Fire Department to better serve our residents with improved response times as well dispersing calls more efficiently between fire stations in central and west Mesa,” Fire Chief Harry Beck said.

Fire Station 218 was designed by Perlman Architects of Arizona and was built by D.L. Withers Construction. “Not only does the new station provide critical emergency services to homes and businesses in west Mesa, but it includes several “green” building concepts, such as insulated concrete and a “cool” roof that reflects sunlight and heat,” District 1 Councilmember Dave Richins said. The fire station also has low water use plumbing fixtures, landscaping that uses drought tolerant plants and building materials that contain a high percentage of recycled material.

“This is one of many public safety projects approved by the City Council and ratified by voters,” Councilmember Dennis Kavanaugh said. “City staff and this Council are working aggressively to complete all the recommended projects.” Kavanaugh also chairs the Council’s Public Safety Committee. Fire Station 218 is the first of at least three new fire stations that will be built in the City of Mesa during the next few years.

The Pinal County Medical Examiners Office has released the names of the people who died as the result of the bus accident on Friday, March 5th, on Interstate 10, east of Phoenix.

The deceased are:

Eusevia Valerio Rios, age 68, Durango, Mexico
J. Nicanor Rodarte Hernandez, age 85, Temecula, California
Hermalinda Roman De Hernandez, age 56, Bakersfield, California
Margarita Roman DeHaro, Bakersfield, California
Margarita Bañuelos, age 58, Los Angeles, California
Maria Del Refugio Gonzales, Van Nuys, California

Family members and next of kin have been notified. Arrangements for funerals and memorial services are being made at the discretion of each family.

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick, Arizona’s only representative on the House Committee on Homeland Security, will join Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel for a tour of security operations along the Arizona-Mexico border on Friday. A tireless advocate for securing the border, Rep. Kirkpatrick is taking the time to hear firsthand from border agents about what more she can do to help their efforts and repair the damage from years of failures by federal policymakers.

As part of the visit, the Congresswoman will observe operations at a port-of-entry, visit a Border Patrol station and survey the border with Border Patrol agents. She will also receive an update on the "virtual fence" program. Rep. Kirkpatrick has previously demanded real answers on how the repeated setbacks to this potentially valuable project can be avoided in the future.

"I am fighting for the folks in my district who have to live with the consequences of Washington’s mistakes, and I am continuing to push for the support our border agents need," said Rep. Kirkpatrick in a speech on the House floor Tuesday. "I am ready and eager for this opportunity to help make sure the voice of our law enforcement on the frontlines is heard, and not the voice of politicians playing games in Washington."

The Congresswoman has been a leader on border security issues in her first term. Last spring, she introduced the Border Violence Prevention Act of 2009 to provide CBP with improved weapons, better body armor and the modern technology they need to protect our communities, along with legislation to give local, state and tribal law enforcement in Arizona new access to resources and information.

Rep. Kirkpatrick also introduced a bill requiring a report from the Secretary of Homeland Security on the success of the Merida Initiative to strengthen our border security and fight drug, gun, cash and human trafficking, and led the campaign against the White House’s proposed budget cuts to the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program (SCAAP).

"For too many years, failed policies from Washington allowed Mexican drug cartels to grow and thrive," said Rep. Kirkpatrick. "Securing our borders is the responsibility of the federal government – and the federal government has to live up to that responsibility. I am working to force Washington to make up years of neglect."

Bring your kids down to Red Mountain Library during Spring Break for a week of free fun-filled activities.

Starting on Tuesday, March 16th, from 1 pm to 2:30 pm it’s “Craft Time for Kids”. Children ages five to 12 can make crafts from wiki stixs and library play-dough.

On Wednesday, March 17th, from 1 pm to 2:30 pm, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with “Luck of the Irish” crafts for children ages five to 12.

On Thursday, March 18th, from 10:30 am to 11 am children ages three to five can enjoy “Storytime”.

On Friday, March 19th, from 1 pm to 2:30 pm children ages five to 12 can participate in “Winds of Change.” Learn how to make crafts that are powered by the wind.

And on Saturday, March 20th, from 11 am to 2:30 pm, children ages four to 18, can drop in for “Wii Love Third Saturdays.” Kids can play the Wii, board games, card games, and puzzles.

The Red Mountain Library is located at 635 N. Power Rd.

The Casa Grande Teen Center will be hosting a Spring Break Lock-in on Friday, March 12th. There will be games, movies, prizes, as well as FREE food and drinks. The Lock-in begins at 8 pm on March 12th, and ends at 7 am on March 13th. The Teen Center is located at 540 N. Camino Mercado (in the Palm Center Plaza).

The Pinal Mountain Little League will be holding registration for the 2010 Spring Season on the following dates and times:

At the Fry's in Globe from 5 pm to 7 pm on March 11th, 12th, 16th, 18th, & 19th.

At the Safeway in Claypool from 9 am to 1 pm on March 14th, 20th, & 21st.

Registration forms and volunteer applications can be printed from pinalmountainlittleleague.org or filled out at the registration site. You will need to bring a birth certificate and proof of residency to the registration for your child(ren). A copy of your drivers' license is required for the volunteer application.

They are in need of volunteers as coaches, umpires, and concession workers.

There will be a coaches clinic on March 11th, at 7:30 pm in the Globe High School Gymnasium. Coaches must attend one of the coaching clinics in order to be eligible to coach the 2010 Spring Season.

Prop 300

District 1
Yes: 70.88%
No: 29.12%

District 2
Yes: 71.83%
No: 28.17%

District 3
Yes: 72.37%
No: 27.63%

District 4
Yes: 75.48%
No: 24.52%

District 5
Yes: 70.35%
No: 29.65%

District 6
Yes: 72.41%
No: 27.59%

Running unopposed and obviously retaining their seats were Mary Ann Uhl of District 3, Desmond 'Dezi' Baker of District 4, & Lerry Alderman of District 6

Governor Jan Brewer has appointmented of Jodi Bain, Edwin Biggers, Carlotta Flores, David Jones, and Alan Willenbrock to the Rio Nuevo Board of Directors.

"I am very pleased to announce the appointment of these well qualified professionals to the Rio Nuevo Board of Directors," said Governor Brewer. "They are highly regarded citizens who understand the critical role of accountability, oversight, and the importance of strengthening greater Tucson’s economy."

Jodi Bain, Esq., a long-time Tucson resident, is founder and principal of Bain Investments, LLC, Vice President and General Counsel for Town West Realty, and has extensive experience in executive-level business operations and real estate consulting. Ms. Bain graduated with a master’s degree from the Universidad Carlos III De Madrid Spain in European Union and Business Law, and received her undergraduate degree from Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts. She is an Arizona licensed real estate broker and has served on many community boards.

Edwin Biggers, a Tucson resident, is former President of the Hughes Missile Group. Mr. Biggers is currently involved with the Tucson Airport Authority, Industrial Advisory Council, School of Engineering at University of Arizona, Young Life of Tucson Metro Committee and is an Elder of Mountain Avenue Church of Christ. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in with a degree in Engineering, UCLA School of Business and Hughes M.S. Fellowship UCLA.

Carlotta Flores is owner and executive chef of El Charro Café, said to be the oldest continuously family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant in the United States. Ms. Flores has been connected with Tucson’s economic, business, and hospitality communities for several generations. She is a proud author and creator of unique and culturally rich Mexican cookbooks, and is actively involved with organizations that provide economic, educational and grass roots support and encouragement for the Tucson business and philanthropic communities.

David Jones is the President/CEO of the Arizona Contractors Association. As the leader of ACA since 2001, Mr. Jones has demonstrated an ability to build and maintain cooperative relationships among business, civic and political leaders in Arizona. He has been a member of numerous professional, social and charitable organizations, and served from 1984-1991 as a member of the Indiana House of Representatives.

Alan Willenbrock is Vice President, Financial Advisor for Morgan Stanley Smith Barney in Tucson. He has over 24 years of experience in the financial services profession. Mr. Willenbrock has been responsible for providing wealth management services and leveraging extensive capabilities of the firm to assist families with achieving their financial goals. He has been a member of a number of professional and civic organizations including the Greater Arizona Development Authority, Professional Development Program CFA Institute, and Internal Audit Committee, among others. He was recognized in 2004 as a leader of the global investment profession by the CFA Institute.

The Rio Nuevo Multipurpose Facilities District’s Board of Directors consists of nine members, five to be appointed by the Governor, and two each to be appointed by the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House.

The Friends of Mesa Library are presenting, Cowboy Poetry at the Red Mountain Library at 635 N. Power Rd. on Saturday, March 13th, from 1 pm to 3 pm. Author, poet and rancher Mike Dunn, will share his experiences growing up on his grandfather’s Rail “A” Brand Ranch. From riding to herding to sharing stories, Dunn’s history and heritage dates back to the late 1800’s, when his grandfather first settled in Whetstone Mountains, southwest of Benson. A collection of Dunn’s poetry is in his book, "Somewhere Between Earth and Heaven." Dunn is a recipient of the Will Rogers Medallion Award and also the Gail I. Gardner Award.

The cost is $5 per person. The proceeds benefit Friends of Mesa Library, a non-profit organization that advocates for the City of Mesa Library through fundraising and publicity.

The Board of Supervisors approved the adjustments to Development Impact Fees for the unincorporated areas of Pinal County.

In October 2006, the Board of Supervisors approved the Development Fee Ordinance, which is allowable under Arizona State Statutes. The county began collecting the Development Impact Fees in January 2007.

Development fees were initiated to allow new development to pay for its share of the impact made on public infrastructure such as streets, parks, and public safety. The fees assist the County in maintaining an acceptable level of service for all residents during the times of rapid population growth. The fees also help to sustain and provide services to Pinal County residents.

There are seven distinct Development Impact Fee areas in Pinal County. The fees are targeted to a Capital Improvement Plan that anticipates infrastructure needs in transportation, regional parks and public safety. This is a way for new development to pay for itself without the infrastructure becoming a burden to taxpayers.

During the Wednesday, March 3rd, board meeting, county staff said that fees were reduced in five of the seven Development Fee Impact areas. See Impact Fee Area map on the Development Services web page. The Board of Supervisor also mandated that the county reexamines the Development Fees every two years to adjust for current economic times, growth needs, and to ensure that new development pays their fair share as well as receive a benefit. By law, the money collected in the specific Development Fee area must be spent in that same area.

The adjustment approved by the Board of Supervisors reflects the reduction in growth in most areas of Pinal County. Unfortunately, two areas Impact Fee Area’s 2 and 4 did see increases due to the need for additional public safety resources and street capital improvement plan for road construction. However, the county made structural adjustments to the fees schedule which provided substantial decreases in the development fees for commercial and medical/dental offices. The new fees will be effective on June 2nd, 2010.

To view the Capital Improvement Plan for New Development and Development Fee Study, Development Fee Ordinance, new fee schedule, and Impact Fee Area map you can visit the county website under Impact Fee Documents 2010 for a PDF copy.

According to the United States Census, Pinal County was the second fastest growing county in the nation in 2008.

Quadra Mining Ltd. has announced net earnings of $80.5 million or $0.89 per share (basic) for the year ended Dec. 31st, 2009 compared to $38.6 or $0.61 per share (basic) for the year ended Dec. 31st, 2008. Earnings in 2009 benefited from a strong recovery in copper prices which increased from $1.32/lb. to $3.33/lb. over the course of 2009. Earnings in 2009 were also impacted by a $54.5 million accounting loss on derivatives which was also a result of the increasing copper prices in the year. Adjusted earnings, which exclude the impact of the derivative loss, the gains on marketable securities and tax adjustments, were $117.5 million or $1.31 per share (basic) for the year ended Dec. 31st, 2009 compared to $13.2 million or $0.21 per share (basic) for the previous year. Operating cash flow before changes in working capital of $141.9 million or $1.58 per share in 2009 was slightly lower compared to $155.3 or $2.47 per share in 2008. During the year 2009, Quadra recorded revenues of $459.5 million from the sale of 144.7 million pounds of copper and 95,735 ounces of gold.

Earnings for the fourth quarter of 2009 increased to $46.4 million or $0.47 per share (basic) from a loss of $126.1 million or $1.94 per share (basic) in the fourth quarter of 2008, due to higher copper prices and to higher metal sales volumes in the fourth quarter of 2009. Adjusted earnings for the quarter, which exclude the impact of the derivative loss, the gains on marketable securities and tax adjustments, were $50.9 million or $0.51 per share in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Paul Blythe, President and CEO of Quadra comments, "During 2009 we had to overcome several challenges at Robinson and Carlota, and we still succeeded in delivering solid financial results despite the low copper price during the early part of the year. We are pleased with the overall production of 164.0 million pounds of copper and 98,970 ounces of gold. As previously announced, the operating performance at Robinson and Carlota improved considerably during the fourth quarter and our new Franke Mine achieved commercial production, becoming our third asset to contribute revenue on the statement of earnings."

"Our strong financial results for the fourth quarter 2009 were a result of the improving copper price, which increased from $2.78 per pound on September 30th to $3.33 at year end, and also from strong sales volumes, including the first copper sales from our new Franke mine."

Paul Blythe concludes, "In 2009 we reached our fifth year anniversary as a public Company and with the acquisition of Centenario Copper we brought the Franke project into operation as our third producing mine. We produced a positive study on Sierra Gorda and our memorandum of understanding to form a Strategic Joint Venture with State Grid International Development would address the funding requirements for the Sierra Gorda project and allow development to proceed rapidly once we have the feasibility study and permits in place. The Company is in a strong position to continue with its growth mandate of becoming a producer of approx. 500 million pounds of copper a year."

Working in partnership with Mesa Public Schools and Bashas’ and Food City supermarkets, the City of Mesa will host a Plastic Bag Round-up Recycling Challenge from March 8th through April 2nd, in honor of Earth Day. Elementary students at all Mesa Public Schools located within the City of Mesa will be challenged to bring in their no-longer-needed plastic grocery bags to help their class and/or school to become the top recycler. A goal has been set for students to collect and recycle one ton of plastic grocery bags.

At the end of the challenge, City of Mesa staff will calculate how many plastic bags were collected by all K-6 students. Winners in the following categories will be announced on Earth Day (April 22nd):

Top Boy & Girl: The boy and girl who collect the most plastic bags in the entire district will each win a bike from Bashas’/Food City, a 1-hour ride on a City of Mesa recycle truck and have their photo featured on a recycle truck billboard sign.
Top Class: The classroom that collects the most plastic bags in the entire district will win reusable bags from Bashas’/Food City and will have their class photo featured on a recycle truck billboard sign.
Top School: The elementary school that collects the most plastic bags will win the 2010 Earth Day Plastic Bag Recycling Round-Up Challenge trophy!

The plastic bags that are collected will be taken to a local Bashas’ supermarket. From there, Bashas’ will send the bags to a recycling facility for processing. End uses for the material include plastic lumber, carpet and playground equipment. Even after the challenge ends, Mesa residents are encouraged to continue recycling their plastic grocery bags by taking them back to their local retailer including their neighborhood Bashas’ and Food City grocery store. Source reduction is an even better option and can be accomplished by reducing the number of grocery bags used or by using reusable bags instead.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, approx. 2.9 million tons of bags, sacks and wraps were generated in 2008 but only 390 thousand tons were recycled, equaling a 13.4% recovery rate.

For more information about the Plastic Bag Round-up Recycling Challenge, please visit mesarecycles.org.

The Gila County Sheriff’s Office arrested Byron Matheu on March 7th, at approx. 11:55 pm for an outstanding Homicide Warrant out of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Byron had eluded capture for 6 years and was booked into the Gila County Jail awaiting extradition back to Los Angeles.

Deputy Leonard Kerszykowski was driving Northbound on State Route 87 when he saw what appeared to be a vehicle that was involved in an accident south of Payson at the Gibson Ranch Road intersection. Deputy Kerszykowski turned around and went back to the scene along with Sgt. Craig Smith to assist the motorist. It was determined that there was no accident and the vehicle had just slid off the road due to inclement weather and snow.

While Sgt. Smith and Deputy Kerszykowski were assisting with getting the vehicle removed, the subject who was driving the vehicle and later identified as Byron Matheu was giving the Deputies false information as to his true identity. Deputies brought Byron to the Sheriff’s Office in Payson where he was positively identified by his finger prints along with him giving his correct name and date of birth. Byron had been living in and around the Payson area for last 4 years.

The warrant was issued on Feb. 23rd, 2004 for Homicide where the victim was shot to death in the city of Lancaster.

Quadra Mining Ltd. has executed a memorandum of understanding ("MOU") with State Grid International Development Limited ("SGID"), a wholly owned subsidiary of State Grid Corporation of China, the largest Chinese utility company and a major end user of copper for the formation of a joint venture (the "Strategic JV"). The Strategic JV will develop and operate Quadra's Sierra Gorda project and Franke Mine and seek to invest in other prospective copper assets, initially in Chile. The parties will be entitled to their proportionate share of the concentrate or cathode production of the Strategic JV on arm's-length terms. Quadra shall be responsible for supervising the day-to-day operations of the Strategic JV under the oversight and direction of a Board of Directors consisting of an equal number of representatives from both parties. SGID will lead the efforts of the Strategic JV to arrange the necessary project financing with a target of not less than a 60:40 debt equity ratio, subject to a bankable feasibility study and other conditions.

The final detailed structuring of the transaction will be determined before the definitive agreements are signed. Quadra will contribute the Sierra Gorda project and the Franke Mine, representing $900 million in assets, and SGID will contribute capital to each gain a 50% equity interest in the Strategic JV. Thereafter each party can contribute 50% of any further equity requirement to maintain its interest.

In addition, as part of the MOU, SGID and Quadra have agreed to undertake a private placement pursuant to which SGID will subscribe for shares representing approx. 9.9% of Quadra's outstanding shares on a post-subscription basis (approx. 10.9 million shares) at a price of CDN$13.91 per share being the market price of Quadra common shares on the date the Company applied for TSX approval during the course of negotiations. The private placement will be structured as a subscription receipt, with the proceeds to be released to Quadra and the shares to be released to SGID, upon closing of the Strategic JV. Under the MOU, a SGID nominee will be invited to join the Board of Quadra.

The MOU is non-binding except in certain limited respects but establishes the basis for the negotiation of the definitive Strategic JV agreements. Execution of definitive agreements is subject to a number of conditions for the benefit of both parties and common to agreements of this nature, including further due diligence and the applicable regulatory and government approvals. Both parties anticipate that the execution of definitive agreements will occur late in the second quarter of 2010.

"Quadra's agreement with SGID resolves the funding issue for the Sierra Gorda project and allows for development to proceed rapidly once we have the feasibility study and permits in place" said Paul Blythe, President and CEO of Quadra. "The project funding will be made in accordance with the requirements of the Sierra Gorda construction schedule, which is under development as part of the feasibility study now under way and due for completion in December 2010, and is expected to be spread over two years. The strategic joint venture brings together a unique and powerful combination, with State Grid's financial capacity and position as a major end user of copper in China and Quadra's skills in acquiring, developing and operating copper producing assets. We believe that with SGID, Quadra has a very strong strategic partner that will not only allow us to construct projects like Sierra Gorda, but also consider other attractive opportunities of substantial size."

CIBC World Markets, working with The Balloch Group, is acting as financial advisor and Blake, Cassels and Graydon LLP as legal advisor to Quadra on the transaction.

The City of Mesa, Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Department is offering free swim lessons at Shepherd Aquatic Complex at 1407 N. Alta Mesa Dr. The lessons are taught by instructors-in-training and will evaluate each child’s swimming ability, review techniques, and teach new swimming skills.

Two sessions are offered for children ages five to 10. The first session is from Mar. 17th-19th, at 3:30 pm and 4:15 pm. The second session is on Apr. 1st, 6th, and 8th, at 5:15 pm and 6 pm. Classes are capped at 20 children per class. Please plan on attending all three classes.

Registration can be done through the Mesa Parks and Recreation online system, and using Free as the keyword search. You can also register by calling the Mesa Parks and Recreation registration desk at (480) 644-2352.

The Gary Rittenbach scholarship applications are available for Globe-Miami students in the High School counselor's office and at the Gila County extension office in Central Heights. The deadline to return the application is April 30th.

Typically, Monday mornings at the Pinal County Superior Courthouse are quite busy. The courthouse becomes a hive of legal activity. Motions, arguments, plea deals and trials usually take place on the first day of the week.

On Monday, Feb. 22nd, the Pinal County Superior Courthouse became more than a justice center – it was also a classroom for 90 eighth graders from Florence K-8 School.

“Monday’s are always a hectic day around the courthouse,” said Clerk of the Court Kristi Youtsey-Ruiz. “It was a great environment to show students how we work.”

The students were from Airlia Freeman’s social studies classes at Florence K-8 School. As soon as they arrived, the students were shown to the Jury Department where they viewed the same video that residents see when they arrive for jury duty.

“In some places jury duty has such a negative connotation,” the Clerk of the Superior Court said. “We wanted to show the students how potential jurors are treated and how important they are to our system of justice. It was an eye opening moment for many of the students.”

Following the juror orientation, the students were escorted to an empty courtroom where Youtsey-Ruiz and her staff explained the court process and answered a lot of questions from quizzical eighth graders.

“We stressed the importance of decorum in the courtroom and the proper attire to be worn during a trial,” Youtsey-Ruiz said. “I had the opportunity to gable Presiding Judge Carter Olson into the courtroom. The students stood as the Presiding Judge entered the courtroom, which was the correct thing to do. It was a very nice to see.”

Following a question and answer session with the Presiding Judge, students were taken in groups of ten to view hearings in Judge Brenda Oldham’s and Judge Janna Vanderpool’s courtrooms.

At the end of their visit, Presiding Judge Olson returned to answer more questions about the judicial process from the students.

“These students were very observant,” Youtsey-Ruiz said. “They asked some very good questions of the Presiding Judge. Even though our Monday’s are very busy, it was a good change of pace to help some students learn more about our system of justice.”

March 4th

To Whom It May Concern

My name is Michael Dineley. I am writing on behalf of my brother-in-law,
Allen Ray Weimer. Allen is a man of great character. He has always
worked hard for his family.

Allen spent some years in the US Navy. He was on the USS Kitty Hawk.
While in the navy an F-18 came in for a landing and crashed on deck,
exploding on impact. Everyone on deck went running but Allen jumped
into jet fueled flames and pulled out the pilot, saving his life. (character)
Allen & Spring Weimer moved to Az when Allen got out of the Navy. At
which point he immediately got a job with the DOC. He worked their for
for what I believe to be about 10 yrs. (that takes character)
Allen has always inspired his kids to the best they can be. He has
inspired me to want to be a good husband & father. He has even
imspired me with my music. He has inspired me to be creative and
encouraged me to keep moving forward. He even has purchased guitars
for me to encourage me to keep moving forward. (character)
I know that Allen has made a mistake, but maybe someone should
investigate the Globe PD. I love and respect law enforcement but
sometimes they go too far.

I think if the men in this great nation were more like my brother-in-law,
Allen Ray Weimer, then this nation would definately be a better and safer
place to live.

My sister and my nephews depend on his love, encouragement, and
correction. Many people's lives are better because of Allen. Don't make
him pay for this one mistake. I ask you to search your heart and honor this
military hero, father, and all out wonderful citizen. It would be an injustice
for this man to stay one more day in jail, let alone "PRISON". Please open
your hearts and see the man behind these accusations. I'm sure you will love
him too as we do.

Respectfully,

Michael Dineley

Tonto National Forest officials announced that this week’s prescribed fire operations are aimed at eliminating about 40 remaining acres of vegetative debris piles on the west side of Pine, and about 50 acres of remaining debris piles on the southeast corner of Pine. The burn is scheduled for March 9th throught March 11th.

Residents and visitors to the area can expect to see moderate amounts of smoke each day of the prescribed fires. During the day, most smoke will loft up and move over the Mogollon Rim. Diurnal air flow in the evening hours will move residual smoke down Pine Creek where it may settle due to cold, inert winter air. The pile ignition will cease each day by 2 pm.

About 20 acres of vegetative debris piles in and around the Whispering Pines area are also targeted from March 9th through March 11th. Residents and visitors to the area can expect to see light to moderate amounts of smoke during the prescribed fire operation. Ignition will cease by 2 pm. Little to no residual smoke is anticipated in this area during the evening hours due to this prescribed fire activity.

“In the past few weeks, we have worked in and around the Pine area, as weather permitted, to successfully eliminate hundreds of acres of vegetative debris piles with prescribed fire. It was a huge task and we have almost completed the elimination of debris piles in the Pine area,” stated Gary Roberts, Fire Prevention officer.

“This will conclude the lion’s share of debris pile elimination in the Pine area for this year and well into the future,” concluded Roberts. “All that remains to be eliminated are piles located on north-facing slopes and in drainages that are still covered in snow. As conditions warrant, we will eliminate the few remaining debris piles.”

Prescribed fire operations are always dependent on optimum weather conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, fuel moisture content, and wind speed and direction prior to ignition.

Get down and funky and shake your groove thang, when the Knee Deep Experience (Funk/Hip Hop/R&B) performs during the first Casa Grande Party in the Park Concert of the 2010 season. The concert will be presented by the City of Casa Grande Community Services Department on March. 19th, from 6 pm to 8 pm at Peart Park located at 350 E. 6th St. The concert is free of charge. Bring your blankets or lawn chairs and start your weekend off right with an evening in the park.

The Globe City Council will hold a meeting on March 8th, in the City Council Chambers at 150 N. Pine St. in Globe. The meeting will start at 6 pm. One of the agenda items is a special presentation for 'Office of the Year'.

A staff member of Representative Ann Kirkpatrick's office will be at the Gila County Complex in Globe on March 10th, to hear from District 1 constituents between 10 am and 4 pm.

"Hang Out at the Hangar" is the theme of a silent auction fundraiser Thursday, April 8th, from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm at Commemorative Air Force Museum at Falcon Field, 2017 N. Greenfield Road, to benefit the City of Mesa’s ABC: A Better Community program.

Sponsored by Mesa Leadership Training and Development Program, which is operated by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, the event includes entertainment, hors d’oeurves, a cash bar, a silent auction and raffle prizes. All donations are tax deductible. Prepaid admission is $5 per person, plus two free raffle tickets. The deadline to RSVP is Thursday, April 1st. You can RSVP to Sophia Tesch at stesch@cox.net or Kay Henry at khenry5445@cox.net.

ABC helps the City of Mesa’s most vulnerable citizens by providing emergency food boxes, home delivered meals to seniors, shelter services to families and children and many other basic needs and services. Some of the non-profit agencies receiving funding from ABC include United Food Bank, MARC Center of Mesa, East Valley Senior Services, A New Leaf and Mesa Boys & Girls Club. For the 09/10 fiscal year, the City of Mesa Office of Human Services has allocated $108,000 to the community. The funds are projected to provide 83,000 emergency food boxes, shelter for 221 families and to allow more than 300 young people to participate in youth programs.

For more information about ABC, including how to donate, visit mesaaz.gov and search "ABC" or visit abcformesa.org.

An ongoing dispute over a road that has existed since the 1800’s, has finally been settled between Pinal County and three environmental groups.

Pinal County recently settled a lawsuit that threatened to cut off numerous residents from ingress and egress to their properties. The county rejected requests by the environmental groups for restrictions on future Pinal County road maintenance activities. In turn, the conservation groups agreed to dismiss their claims without obtaining road maintenance restrictions.

San Pedro Road was in existence before Arizona became a state in 1912. This is a vital roadway into and exiting the small community located in the eastern part of Pinal County. Keeping San Pedro Road open and properly maintained is essential to the health, safety and enjoyment of the residents of Dudleyville, along with other nearby communities.

Contrary to the claims made by the environmental groups in the lawsuit, as well as in a recent press release, Pinal County never did "seize property" belonging to the federal government. Nor did the county illegally discharge dredge or fill material in the San Pedro River. Pinal County has the right and obligation to properly maintain San Pedro Road so that residents, visitors and emergency vehicles can access land west of the river. Pinal County has been doing this maintenance for decades.

Pinal County has been extremely active in protecting environmental concerns throughout the county, including the rich habitat surrounding San Pedro Road. In the lawsuit, the environmental groups claimed that a single act of road maintenance near the San Pedro River was harmful to birds, including the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher. Pinal County hired an independent team of environmental and biological experts to evaluate the validity of the environmental groups’ claims. In testimony those claims were exposed as unfounded.

At the point when the environmental groups would have to hire their own experts to support their claims, the groups elected instead to dismiss their lawsuit with prejudice. This lawsuit forced the county to spend over $500,000 to defend itself against these allegations.

Pinal County is committed to spending its resources to protect the environment and to maintain county roads and other property.

Re Allen Weimer

The story is ridiculous!!! He was caught with 1/4 oz of pot which was for his own use!!! Notice the article just says a quanity....well why don't the say how much????????? Then it goes on to saythat weapons, cash, and more pot was found at his house....please...........he had another qt oz,his guns, and some cash in his safe....helloooooooooooooo where do you want him to have that stuff at???????????????? Out in the open?????????????????????
I am Allen's mother in law and I have known him for a very long time. He has been a great son in law...husband....and father. He has always had an ear for anyone who needed to talk and this whole thing is just stupid!! Ok maybe he shouldn't have been smoking but how many of us has never made a mistake? Those of us without sin cast the first stone. He has served his country and even been decorated as a hero. He is a good man!!!Please help me to help him.....

Thank you

Lauri Cook

On March 2nd, Representative Ann Kirkpatrick, launched a push to make Members of Congress show a personal commitment to cutting federal spending. She introduced the Taking Responsibility for Congressional Pay Act, which will cut pay for all Senators and Representatives by 5% starting Jan. 1st, 2011. If the bill is passed into law, Member salaries will be reduced for the first time since April 1st, 1933, in the midst of the Great Depression.

Rep. Kirkpatrick has been fighting hard to bring the fiscal discipline of Greater Arizona’s small towns to Washington. The Taking Responsibility for Congressional Pay Act is a significant step in her fight. It will require Members of Congress to acknowledge what they have ignored for so long and start doing their part to get the budget deficit under control.

With so many tough choices necessary to close the gap, she feels that this spending cut – which saves taxpayer dollars without affecting valuable programs – should be easy to support. The Congresswoman will demonstrate her own dedication to the effort by returning five percent of her own pay for this year, in advance of the legislation being passed.

"Families across the country are getting by on lower wages and finding ways to cut back during the downturn, and these are the folks that pay our salaries. The federal government’s budget is in much worse shape, so why shouldn’t senators and representatives have to feel the same pinch?" asked Rep. Kirkpatrick.

"We are facing a historic challenge, and it will take historic action to get the job done. It has been 77 years since Congress’ last pay cut – I believe we are long past due for another," said Rep. Kirkpatrick.

Rep. Kirkpatrick’s bill would also block any automatic increase in congressional salaries for next year. She has previously co-sponsored bills to stop the automatic congressional pay increase for 2011 and to eliminate the automatic raise altogether, and was part of the successful effort to block the pay hike for 2010.

"Congress must lead by example to restore fiscal discipline in Washington. Members need to get serious about cutting waste and finding savings, and lowering our pay instead of giving ourselves a raise is a common-sense place to start," said Rep. Kirkpatrick. "We should find ways to make each dollar go further and then demand the rest of the federal government do the same."

As part of her "Do More With Less" Initiative, Rep. Kirkpatrick has sharply criticized the White House’s FY2011 budget proposal and is calling for significant spending cuts. Last month, she helped pass a measure re-establishing the statutory "pay-as-you-go" requirement for Congress and stood up against a $1.9 trillion increase in the debt ceiling. The Congresswoman also supported deep reductions in last year’s appropriations bills, opposed the bank bailouts, was an early voice for using bailout funds to pay down the debt and is part of the bipartisan coalition supporting a strong, independent deficit reduction commission.

There's going to be a Teddy Bear Drive on March 20th, from 11 am to 4 pm at the Globe Fire Department. The teddy bears will go to the Globe Fire Department and the Gila County Safe Home to help traumatized children find a little bit of comfort with a new friend. Smoky the Bear's going to appear at the Teddy Bear Drive starting at 11:30 am. They are asking for new and gently used teddy bears to be donated.

The Copper Rim Elementary School Library's Spring Book Fair will be held March 15th through the 19th, this year. They are going to have a big selection to choose from. Their hours will be;

Monday thru Wednesday - 8 am to 3:30 pm.
Thursday - 8 am to 7 pm.
Friday - 8 am to 12 pm.

The City of Mesa is hosting a Public Meeting for Mesa residents and businesses regarding the future of Mesa’s Fiesta District. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, March 11th, at 6 pm in Suite #1212 in the Fiesta Mall at 1445 W. Southern Ave. on the lower level next to Macy’s.

Public stakeholders are invited to provide feedback on preliminary design concepts for Fiesta Village. Arizona State University students have been working with the City of Mesa and the Fiesta District Stakeholders group to identify design concepts to reactivate and revitalize the Fiesta District. The students are preparing a new zoning district and design standards, developing a plan for pedestrian connectivity and public spaces and preparing alternative development plans.

The details are still a bit rough, but Emergency crews were called to the Jesse Hayes construction site in Globe for a person trapped in a trench around 2 pm this afternoon. By use of manpower and hand tools, they were able to reach and pull the subject out of the trench, approx. 30 to 40 minutes later. They transported him to a Native Air Ambulance that was waiting on the lower field of the Community Center. He was transported to Scottsdale Osborn.

According to a release from the Globe Police Department;

Allen Ray Weimer II, 37, has been arrested on March 2nd, for Possession of Marijuana for sale, Possession of Marijuana, & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

After a month long investigation, Detectives and officers from the Globe P.D., and Gila County Attorney's Office served a search warrant on Weimer at his business in Globe called, Cutting Edge Street Wear. The business specializes in clothing, gear, and equipment relating to the skateboard crowd.

This investigation started about a month ago after officers with the Globe P.D. detected and odor of burning marijuana in a parking lot located behind Cutting Edge Street Wear. The investigation culminated yesterday with Weimer's arrest.

The store, a quantity of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, money, and all of the merchandise was seized pending forfeiture as per RICO statute.

Following the search warrant at the business, another was obtained and served for his residence in Ice House Canyon. The search there turned up an additional quantity of marijuana, money, and numerous firearms and edged weapons were seized.

Weimer was booked into the Gila County Jail with his initial appearance before a judge on March 3rd. Additional charges related to sale and transportation of illegal drugs are pending.

You can learn about ways that you can conserve resources at the Water & Energy Conservation Fair on March 13th. The Town of Queen Creek & SRP will be on-hand to provide information and answer questions about alternative ways of saving water through improved landscaping practices and modernization of your current equipment, including the water-saving technology of smart irrigation controllers. They're going to have interactive booths with energy efficiency tips and SRP programs and product information to help you save money at home and at work.

Also, SRP will have smart controllers for sale at a 50% discount at the Fair, but if you want one, you'll need to get there early as supplies will be limited.

The Water & Energy Conservation Fair will be held at the Queen Creek Library at 21802 S. Ellsworth Rd. from 10 am to 1 pm.

The Globe High School Alumni Picnic is going to be on Saturday, April 10th, from 11 am to 4 pm at the Indian Bend Park in Scottsdale (on the N.E. corner of Hayden Rd. & Indian School Rd. next to the Circle K). The cost is $10 per person. The menu will consist of fried chicken, potato and macaroni salads, water, & other non-alcoholic drinks.

Wear your GHS t-shirts, bring your yearbooks, bring any pictures you want to share with others, & chairs.

If you plan on attending, please RSVP by April 1st, and make checks payable to:

Cathi Nugent
6701 E. Culver St.
Scottsdale, Az 85257

The Planning and Development Department staff will be holding an informal meeting to seek public comment on Case PZ-C-002-10, a proposed text amendment to the Pinal County Zoning Ordinance in Title 2 of the Pinal County Development Services Code, more specifically Chapter 2.170 "Comprehensive Plan and Comprehensive Plan Amendments; by revising and adding a procedure for adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and amendments thereto and other amendments for clarification purposes.

They will also be seeking public comment on Case PZ-C-003-10, a proposed text amendment to the Pinal County Zoning Ordinance in Title 2 of the Pinal County Development Services Code, more specifically Section 2.15.020 "Maps" and Section 2.15.030 "Determination of Boundaries."

The meeting will be held on Monday, March 8th, from 6 pm to 8 pm, in Building F of the E.O.C. Room at the Pinal County Florence Complex in Florence.

Your attendance and feedback on this proposed text amendment is appreciated.

Between Feb. 24th and 26th, detectives with the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office arrested 4 San Tan Valley juveniles and Brandon Cobb, 20, of Chandler, on charges relating to a residential burglary in the 3500 block of W. Dancer Lane in San Tan Heights.

On Feb. 22nd, 2009 deputies responded to a residential burglary in the 3500 block of W. Dancer Lane in San Tan Heights. The victim reported a total loss of electronics and other items in excess of $4,500.

Detective A. Goode with PCSO Property Crimes Division was contacted and immediately started his investigation. On the 24th, Det. Goode was working surveillance due to this burglary and other reported incidents in the area. The Sheriff’s Office received a report of suspicious activity on W. Morgan Lane at approx. 6 am. At approx. 6:45 am, Det. Good located 4 people walking in the neighborhood. The individuals began dispersing in different directions and Det. Goode was able to detain 2 of the 4 people who were also in possession of alcohol. Det. Good determined the two subjects were under the legal drinking age and with the assistance of patrol deputies arrested them.

Based on evidence obtained during the investigation and subsequent search warrant, Detective Goode was able charge 4 subjects in connection with the burglary on the 22nd.

Brandon Cobb was booked into the Pinal County Adult Detention Center on Charges of Burglary, Theft, Trafficking in Stolen Property, Underage Consumption of Alcohol and Shoplifting.

Three juveniles were booked into the Pinal County Juvenile Detention Center and referred for charges including Burglary, Theft, Trafficking in and Possession of Stolen Property, False Information and Shoplifting.

One juvenile was referred to the Juvenile Court Services for Shoplifting and Under-age Possession of Alcohol.

"Detective Goode and deputies assigned to the San Tan Valley area did a fantastic job in their response to this reported burglary. Their immediate follow-up and thorough investigation led to the apprehension of these 5 individuals and potentially prevented them from victimizing others," commented Sheriff Paul Babeu. "The reassignment of detectives from Florence Headquarters to the region offices has been a success. This investigation is proof that the reforms and improvements in criminal investigations allow our investigators to work more closely with patrol deputies and immediately assume the responsibility of priority cases of theft and crimes against our families."

All members of the Gila County Historical Society Museum and the public are invited to attend the Society's annual meeting and election of officers on March 19th. A potluck will be held at 6:30 pm, followed by the meeting at 7 pm.

A special program will be presented at this session by Donna Anderson and other Board members on the coming six-week Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit, "Key Ingredients", which will highlight the foods of early America. Some very different events are being planned to highlight this exhibit in early 2011, and suggestions and ideas from those attending will be welcome.

A large Rummage Sale Fundraiser to benefit the Special Olympics and the Globe Public Library will be set up in the parking lot at 190 W. Ash in Globe on March 18th, 19th, & 20th. The Rummage Sale will run from 8 am to 1 pm each day. And yes, cash donations will be welcomed.

Joseph Diaz, 53, of New York, New York, was sentenced to 52.5 years in prison on March 1st, after pleading guilty to the indictment charging him with seven separate counts of bank robbery.

On Oct. 17th, 2008, two days after being released from prison, Diaz committed the first of seven bank robberies in Tucson. Diaz had been released from prison after serving a 12.5-year sentence for five prior bank robberies in the Los Angeles area, which was his second stint in prison for bank robberies dating back to the 1980s. After the first robbery in Tucson, Diaz proceeded to commit six more bank robberies, the last one on Dec. 8th, 2008. During each of the robberies, Diaz used intimidation by presenting a demand note and verbally demanding money from the tellers.

“Mr. Diaz didn’t learn his lesson after serving time twice for bank robbery,” said U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona Dennis K. Burke. “Now he'll have a half-century to think about it, and meanwhile will no longer be a threat to society. We want to thank the law enforcement agencies who participated in the investigation, and the brave citizens who provided information to police that helped nab him.”

Two bank customers witnessed the last robbery and attempted to capture Diaz. One, an off-duty firefighter, tried to smash through the passenger windshield of his getaway car, while another customer dialed 911. Diaz was able to elude the customers, but they were able to provide the police with a description and license number of the vehicle Diaz was driving. Tucson Police officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop but Diaz refused to yield, fled from law enforcement, and lead the officers on a high speed chase through the city streets of Tucson. Diaz eventually lost control of the vehicle and crashed into the front yard of a residence. The amount taken by Diaz during the seven bank robberies totaled $20,597.

The investigation in this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tucson Police Department, and Pima County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Liza M. Granoff, Assistant U.S. Attorney, District of Arizona, Tucson. U.S. District Judge Raner C. Collins was the presiding judge.

Today, Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc. announced they've issued a notice to redeem all of its outstanding Senior Floating Rate Notes due 2015 (“Notes”) on April 1st, 2010. There is $1 billion in outstanding aggregate principal amount of the Notes.

Holders of record will receive 101 percent of the principal amount together with accrued and unpaid interest from Oct.1st, 2009 to the redemption date. The Notes bear interest at LIBOR plus 3.25%. Based on the current forward LIBOR rates through the 2015 maturity of the Notes, the annual interest cost savings over the life of the Notes would average approx. $58 million per annum. FCX expects to record an approximate $20 million charge to net income in the second quarter of 2010 in connection with the redemption. The Bank of New York Mellon, as trustee, has distributed to the registered note holders written notice of the specific terms of the redemption.

At Dec. 31st, 2009, FCX had $6.3 billion in total debt and consolidated cash of $2.7 billion. During January and February 2010, FCX completed open market purchases of its 8.25% Senior Notes and its 8.375% Senior Notes totaling approx. $270 million. Following the completion of the redemption of the Notes and including the year-to-date open market purchases, FCX’s total debt would approximate $5.0 billion.

The City of Globe has had to make drastic cost-cutting measures due to the revenue shortfall.

Starting on March 22nd, City Hall will be open Monday through Thursday from 7 am to 6 pm and closed on Friday. City Hall will also be closed on the last Thursday of each month. This day will be an unpaid furlough for City employees.

The Public Works Dept. will follow the same Monday through Thursday work week, with an unpaid furlough on the last Thursday of each month. Once this change goes into effect, the schedule for garbage pick-up will be:

If your garbage pick-up days are currently Monday and Thursday, your new pick-up days will be Monday and Wednesday.

If your garbage pick-up days are currently Tuesday and Friday or Wednesday and Friday, your new pick-up days will be Tuesday and Thursday.

Your daily pick-up times may vary, but please have your garbage out by 6 am.

The City of Globe would like to thank you for your understanding of this never-before-experienced economic environment.

Michael Buckley is a best-selling children’s book author and he will be at the Coolidge Public Library on March 12th, for a special book signing and discussion. The event is open to the public and will begin at 5 pm. The Coolidge Public Library is located at 160 West Central Avenue.

Children and teens know Buckley as the author of seven installments of the popular series The Sisters Grimm. He has a brand new series called N.E.R.D.S. about an enterprising group of kids who form the National Espionage, Rescue and Defense Society. The first N.E.R.D.S. book chronicles how a group of clever but unpopular school students band together to form an underground network of spies, complete with superpowers, evil plots and diabolical schemes.

N.E.R.D.S. has an enthusiastic fan base already. Amazon.com shows 13 fans giving the book five stars and one fan giving it four stars. There were no reviews scoring fewer than four stars.

Buckley will answer questions, share anecdotes and sign copies of his books for fans during his visit to the Coolidge Library. Don’t miss this chance to meet an award-winning author of children’s literature.

The City of Casa Grande was recognized by the nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA community for its commitment to urban forestry. It is the third straight year Casa Grande has earned this national designation. The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service.

Casa Grande has met the four standards to become a Tree City USA community. Tree City USA communities must have a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program, and an Arbor Day observance and proclamation. "We commend Casa Grande's elected officials, volunteers and its citizens for providing vital care for its urban forest," said John Rosenow, chief executive and founder of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees provide numerous environmental, economical and health benefits to millions of people each day, and we applaud communities that make planting and caring for trees a top priority."

Communities that earn Tree City USA recognition not only have taken the time to meet the four standards, they know that trees:

Promote healthier communities by filtering the air we breathe by removing dust and other particles.
Moderate climate, conserve water and provide vital habitat for wildlife.
Reduce the heat island effect in urban areas caused by pavement and buildings.
Increase property values and reduce energy use and add beauty to our homes and neighborhoods.

Spice up your spring with a visit to Patagonia Lake State Park's Boulder Beach on March 20th, for the 12th Annual Mariachi Festival.

So far, the performers that are expected to perform are:

10 am - Mariachi Plata (Band)
11 am - Sunnyside High School (Band)
12 pm - Baile Folklorico Tapatio (Dancers)
1 pm - Mariachi Juvenil Batiz (Band)
2 pm - Pueblo High School (Band)
3 pm - Mariachi Reyes (Band)

Keep in mind, that the line-up could change. Aside from that, it will be a great day for all.

This year the Mariachi Festival is being coordinated with financial support from the Arizona State Parks Foundation. Volunteers from across the state will be offering their assistance on this day so the popular Festival can take place.

Visitors are encouraged to spend the whole day at the Park and enjoy a wide variety of Southern Arizona Mariachi bands and dancers on stage. There will be concessions, but visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic basket. In addition, Patagonia offers picnicking, birding and nature walks. Mariachi Plata will kick things off at 10 am.

Patagonia Lake State Park will provide overflow parking available with shuttle service. Visitors should arrive early for best parking. The fee to enter Patagonia Lake State Park is $10 for up to four adults, and walk-ins pay just $3.

For more information contact Patagonia Lake State Park at (520) 287-6965. The primitive camping sites are available for $17, and sites with electric hookups are available for $25. Make plans to head south for the sounds of traditional and modern Mexican Mariachi Band music. The park is located 7 miles past the town of Patagonia; take I-10 East to Hwy 83 South to Hwy 82.

A 14' x 60' single-wide mobile home located at #5702 Upper Glendale in Central Heights sustained fire damage Monday evening.

The mobile home's owner and resident, Jim Mills said that he smelt electrical smoke through-out the home after having been awakened by his dog and after a quick investigation, he located the source of the smoke on an exterior wall of the home and immediately called 9-1-1.

The fire was contained to the area of origin and Tri-City Fire Investigators determined that it was electrically caused. There was no further damage to the remainder of the home.

Tri-City Fire Department was assisted by Globe and Canyon Fire Departments, and the Gila County Sheriff’s Office. There were no injuries to the occupant or fire fighters.

The Governing Board of the Globe Unified School District will hold a regular meeting at 6 pm on March 3rd, in the Mofford Activity Center in Globe.

The Gila County Board of Supervisors will hold an open meeting at 10 am in the Supervisors' Auditorium at 1400 E. Ash. St. in Globe on March 2nd. One or more of the board members may participate in the meeting by telephone conference call or by interactive television video (ITV). Any member of the public is welcome to attend the meeting. In Payson, you may participate via ITV in the Board of Supervisors' Conference Room at 610 E. Highway 260.

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick announced last week that she will return all campaign donations she has received at any point from Congressman Charles Rangel, after the House Ethics Committee concluded that he had committed an ethics violation.

Rep. Kirkpatrick will be giving back $10,000 in campaign contributions from Congressman Rangel's National Leadership Political Action Committee and $4,000 from his campaign committee, all from the 2008 campaign cycle. She has not accepted donations from either of those organizations since the Ethics Committee began its investigation of Rep. Rangel.

The Congresswoman has released the following statement:

"The American people expect their elected officials to meet the highest possible ethical standards, and they deserve nothing less. It is important to me as an Arizonan and as an American for public servants to live up to the public trust.

"The bipartisan Ethics Committee has found that Congressman Rangel did not live up to the standards Members owe to their constituents with this matter and continues to look into other serious breaches. While I deeply respect his lifetime of service as a soldier and as a U.S. Representative, I can no longer accept his support."

Station 218 of the Mesa Fire Department will have a grand opening from 10 am to 11 am on March 10th. Mesa Fire Station 218 is located at 845 N. Alma School in Mesa.

The Prescott Regional Public Safety Communications Center and the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center have completed and implemented "Phase II" of their wireless service upgrades.

"Traditionally, dispatchers have only been able to accurately identify a caller’s location from a land-line telephone," said Paul Laipple, Director of the Prescott Regional Public Safety Communications Center . "With the new upgrade to our system, when a caller dials 911 from a cell phone in the Central or Western Yavapai County region, the call is routed to the proper answering point and the dispatcher is able to identify the caller’s location on a digital map in 15-20 seconds."

According to Laipple, the accuracy of the caller’s location is dependant upon the cellular service provider and the distance from the caller to the cell tower receiving the message. "However, we’ve found that our mapping capability typically brings us within 100 feet of the caller’s actual location."

Prior to the upgrade, emergency calls from cell phones originating from the Prescott area could be answered in Flagstaff or as far away as Page. "This was very frustrating for the caller -- requesting help, but before assistance could be dispatched, they were transferred several times until the correct jurisdiction was notified," added Laipple.

The Regional Dispatch Center is now receiving more 911 calls from cell phones than land line phones and Laipple expects the trend to continue. "Thanks to the wireless service upgrade, we’re properly equipped to provide the best customer service possible. That’s important to our leaders and is expected by the citizens of our community."

A Gila County Sheriff's Deputy responded to a report of an incendiary explosive device at a ranch in Dripping Springs at approx. 7:48 am this past Saturday. The Department of Public Safety’s Bomb Squad and Hazardous Materials Crew were brought in to investigate the suspected device. The crew discovered that the device had all the necessary components, but that it was not active. They further deemed that the device was safe enough that it could be destroyed.

Freeport McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc.'s two mines were able to dodge serious damage after the 8.8 quake that struck Chile and the subsequent aftershocks. They are however looking at a potential power outage at their Candelaria mine. The outage would cause a temporary shutdown at the site.

Mesa City Manager Chris Brady announced today his recommendation for Mesa’s new police chief at a news conference held at the Mesa City Plaza building. Brady introduced Phoenix Police Commander Frank Milstead as his selection for the position and will be formally making the recommendation to the Mesa City Council for ratification on Monday, March 1st, during a regularly scheduled council meeting.

"The Chief of Police is an important leadership role in the City overseeing a department of more than 1,300 sworn and civilian personnel." Brady said. "The public safety professionals who participated in this recruitment process have exceptional credentials and I have the utmost respect for each one of them. In the end, Commander Milstead was chosen based on feedback provided by many individuals over several months of interviews and forums. I believe he is the best fit for the needs of our community and organization at this time."

Commander Milstead has 25 years of law enforcement experience. He has been with the Phoenix Police Department since 1985 holding various leadership positions including Commander, Lieutenant, and Sergeant in the Homeland Defense, Major Offender, and Traffic bureaus.

In January, the five top candidates went through a rigorous interview process that included meetings with the police department’s community forum members; which includes civic leaders from various special interest groups, a panel of police department civilian and sworn staff, sessions with the Mayor and City Council members, and a community meet-and-greet session with the general public. The candidates also had a question and answer briefing with members of the local media. The selection was narrowed to three finalists who were interviewed by Brady and included Milstead, Phoenix Police Assistant Chief Blake McClelland, and Mesa Police Assistant Chief John Meza.

"We are very appreciative of the candidates that dedicated their time to the process and all those that served on panels or forums and the public that took the time to come meet the candidates." Brady said. "I also want to extend a special thanks to Chief Vicki Myers who has worked tirelessly over the last seven months as interim police chief. She has done an incredible job and is to be commended."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a smuggling attempt when they seized nearly 115 pounds of marijuana from a Mesa man.

On Feb. 23rd, at about 5 pm, CBP officers were screening traffic coming from Mexico. The officers selected a 1990 GMC pick-up truck being driven by a 26-year-old man from Mesa for further inspection. With the assistance of a special trained K-9 team and high-tech tools, the CBP officers discovered a false compartment constructed into the bed of the pick-up truck. The false compartment contained packages of marijuana which had a total weight of 115 pounds with an estimated street value of $256,000.

CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.

Authorities were called to a residence in Globe shortly after midnight this morning after a domestic between a boyfriend and girlfriend turned ugly. Authorities discovered that the boyfriend had a wound in his back that was approx. a foot-long as a result from having been stabbed by the woman. He also had a few minor scratches, but is expected to recover. Police suspect that a steak knife was used on the victim. The woman was taken into custody.

The Grand Canyon Chapter of the American Red Cross is celebrating Red Cross Month during the month of March. Efforts are focused on raising awareness about preparedness and recruiting new volunteers, as well as blood and financial donors.

"This is an opportunity to educate Arizonans about Red Cross," said Cara Sloman, Grand Canyon Chapter emergency services director. "Most people know our volunteers respond when there’s a huge wildfire or tornado, but most people don’t know we help families pick up the pieces every single day after a house or an apartment fire."

In January, your local Red Cross helped hundreds of Arizonans during one of the state’s worst disasters in nearly two decades. At the peak of the response, the Red Cross opened 11 shelters with more than 300 residents.

"One-hundred and forty five Red Cross volunteers stopped what they were doing to make sure people who were evacuated and rescued had a safe place to sleep, food and emotional support," said Bill Epps, Grand Canyon Chapter chief executive officer. "Our ability to respond is only as strong as the people we have."

Volunteering for the Red Cross is one way Arizonans can help. Financial and blood donors also helps ensure the Red Cross will be there when Arizona needs it most.

To celebrate Red Cross Month, your local Red Cross is participating in activities around the state:

March 6th: Arizona State Open Chili Championship in Casa Grande. Red Cross volunteers will be on hand to educate people about preparedness as they enjoy chili at Ed Hooper Park in Casa Grande.

March 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th: IHOP Fundraisers in Lake Havasu City. Portion of the proceeds sold from 2 pm to 6 pm will go to local Red Cross disaster relief.

March 11th: Home Town County Show in Payson. Local volunteers are organizing a variety show to raise money following the winter storms. The show starts at 6 pm at Payson High School.

March 13th: New Volunteer Orientation in Phoenix. 6135 N. Black Canyon Hwy, 9 am to 2 pm. Learn about the history of the American Red Cross, its Fundamental Principals and different volunteer jobs.

March 15th: Volunteer Recruitment Event in Kingman: Del E. Webb Wellness Center at 1719 Beverly Ave., Kingman, 6 pm. Learn about Red Cross volunteer opportunities.

March 19th: Red Cross Open House and Blood drive in Phoenix. 6135 N. Black Canyon Hwy, 9 am to 1 pm. Learn about Red Cross in your community, get an up close look at mobile feeding vehicle, donate blood and enjoy a snack.

March 27th: International Humanitarian Law class in Phoenix. Learn about the Geneva Conventions and the basic rules of international humanitarian law. To register, email estraining@arizonaredcross.org.

March 31st: Volunteer Recruitment Event in Yuma: County library located at 2951 S. 21st Dr., 6 pm in upstairs classroom. Learn about Red Cross volunteer opportunities.

Through March: Free shipping when shopping online. Give the gift of preparedness and more when you buy a Red Cross First Aid Kit, Disaster Kit, vintage tee-shirt and more at arizonaredcross.org.

Mesa Mayor Scott Smith has announced the establishment of the Mayor’s Award for Building a Better Mesa. "This award will recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of residents and businesses to help make Mesa an even better place to live," Mayor Scott Smith said.

The following award categories are based on six critical areas defined by the mayor for "Building a Better Mesa." Those categories are: Public Safety, Economic Development, Community Pride, Regional Leadership, Civic engagement, Architecture and Design, Redevelopment and Revitalization, & even a special category for Outstanding Youth.

All Mesa residents and businesses are eligible to be nominated for any award category. Nominations can be submitted online. Forms can also be submitted to Kathy Macdonald, Chief of Staff, P.O. Box 1466, Mesa, AZ 85211-1566 or kathy.macdonald@mesaaz.gov.

Nominations and awards are ongoing and a special public celebration will be held at the end of the year.

The Town of Florence Parks and Recreation Department invites you and your family to the Annual Reel Kids Fishing Derby and Family Campout beginning at 6 pm on March 12th. Join them as they turn Heritage Park into "Lake Florence" and provide lots of activities for everyone. The evening activities include fishing, music, & food.

This event is free to the public! Come out to Heritage Park in downtown Florence and set up your tents between 1 pm and 4 pm and get ready for the fun. The Reel Kids Fishing Derby runs from 6 pm to 8 pm.

Kids, who are 18 and under, are invited to participate in the fishing derby. Prizes are awarded to kids who present tagged fish to the judges. At the conclusion of the fishing derby, 8 pm the adults can join the fun!

Rod and reel units are available for kids to check out, on a first come, first serve basis, on the day of the event starting at 5 pm. Fishing poles must be returned at the conclusion of the event. Bait is also provided for those attending the festivities.

There is absolutely no snagging or netting of fish at anytime during the weekend. This policy is strictly enforced and violators are asked to leave the park.

The Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS) has announced that they will continue to partake in the National "Click it or Ticket" enforcement and education campaign to increase seatbelt enforcement in Maricopa and Pima Counties. In partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), GOHS is funding 27 law enforcement agencies in the second of four scheduled "Click it or Ticket" enforcement periods this year, beginning on Feb. 27th, and concluding on March 7th.

"Even though Arizona is a secondary law state for seatbelt usage, law enforcement officers will be taking a zero tolerance approach on drivers who are in violation of state law," said Alberto Gutier, Director of the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.

These funds are part of a $600,000 demonstration grant from NHTSA designed to increase and sustain the seatbelt usage in Maricopa and Pima counties over the course of one year. Law enforcement agencies in these two counties will conduct four enforcement periods over this time period. Arizona is one of two states to receiving this funding from NHTSA.

For the next week, 27 law enforcement agencies in Maricopa and Pima Counties will have increased traffic enforcement with zero tolerance for violations of Arizona’s occupant protection laws. These agencies will be participating in community activities with various organizations to raise public awareness about the importance of wearing seat belts.

Additional enforcement periods will occur from May 24th, through June 6th, & from Sept. 25th, through Oct. 1st.

"The events and enforcement next week will help prevent needless tragedies on our streets and highways," said Alberto Gutier. He will be in attendance at several public awareness events during the course of the campaign.

According to officials, James Cain thought he was safe to cross the Tonto Creek in his Range Rover, that is until the creek's rushing waters overtook the SUV and pushed it approx. 100 to 150 feet from its the original location. Crews were made aware of Cain's predicament when someone called them around 11 am on Wednesday reported that someone was stranded in the creek.

Cain was fine after being rescued, but has been given a citation for passing a road closed sign that indicated that there was high water flow.

The SUV was eventually pulled from the creek.

Tucson Vice Mayor Rodney Glassman has made a pledge that he will make a decision concerning his potential run for U.S. Senate in early April, after helping get the City of Tucson through its current budget crisis, "I will not abandon my duty for ambition, especially in a time of crisis," says Glassman, "Other politicians are leaving the people who voted for them in a lurch by resigning in the middle of the worst financial crisis in the history of Arizona, a crisis that must be dealt with at every level of our governments."

Glassman is postponing his decision until the Tucson City Council completes its budget deliberations and forwards its recommendations to the City Manager, "My priority is my responsibility to Tucson. The people who elected me are counting on me to see the Tucson 2011 budget process through."

Glassman has been exploring a run for U.S. Senate against the winner of a Republican primary built on promises to represent the narrowest constituency on the Far Right. He's received thousands of $20 donations as an expression of interest in seeing him provide a new Arizona voice on Capitol Hill, representing mainstream Arizona values. He has received the support and encouragement of all of the 2010 Statewide Democratic candidates and from more individuals than any other candidate to take on McCain in Arizona history.

"The people of Tucson need me to fight for them and fight through a budget shortfall, even as the state Legislature ties our hands insofar as what we can do to handle it," Glassman said. "When we make our decision concerning higher office, it will be after I've tended to the duties of my current office. That's what Arizonans should expect of anyone seeking to lead."

The City Council is scheduled to forward budget direction to the City Manager on April 6th.

As a public safety team on the roads day and night, good weather and bad, the Arizona Department of Transportation always has a focus on first keeping motorists safe and traffic moving. But after the recent winter storm pounded most of the state, ADOT will spend more than $4 million to repair critical infrastructure damaged by rain, wind and snow.

It's a big price to pay, but a necessity to protect drivers, property and decades of investments in highway infrastructure. When bad weather strikes, ADOT crews are the first responders - clearing the way and securing passage for police, fire and medical responders.

"ADOT has no role more critical than public safety. We have hundreds of staff in every corner of the state, covering 6,000 miles of highway, providing services specifically to protect motorists, the movements of the things we buy, and the investment we have all made in our highways," said Transportation Director John Halikowski. "When it snows, ADOT plows lead the way. That’s a powerful testament to our mission and the dedication of our public-safety professionals."

Of the estimated $4.1 million total cost for repairs, some may be reimbursed by the Federal Highway Administration as part of a program to compensate states for emergency response. The bulk of the costs, however, will hit the ADOT operations budget, a fund already drained by reduced revenues and legislative transfers. This is the same fund that provides money for snow plowing, Motor Vehicle Division Offices, staff salaries and highway rest areas.

ADOT has two primary day-to-day roles – public safety and customer service. Meeting both of these needs is the agency’s top focus. To provide funds for emergency services that come up everyday – like snow plowing, vehicle inspections, fraud detection, or critical highway repairs – it has been necessary to reallocate funds from a variety of sources into our public safety function. Both public safety and customer service are funded by the operations budget, and that’s a budget short on cash.

Even when faced with flash flood, thunderstorm, tornado, dust storm, winter storm and other warnings from the National Weather Service, ADOT personnel and equipment were in action confronting January’s storms. Emergency closures of highways, including State Route 89A near Sedona and Loop 101 in Scottsdale, were required to protect drivers. This was in addition to the preemptive closures of I-17 and I-40 before the worst of the weather hit – a move designed to keep motorists from becoming stranded.

The series of storms – the second for this winter – took their toll on the highway system around the state. Eroded roadways caused by flooding, rock falls and landslides, feet upon feet of snow, sink holes, crashes that caused damage and other affects are still being addressed by ADOT crews. The forces of Mother Nature, when extreme enough, will foil even the best engineering and construction techniques. Wind, water and ice are powerful.

These storms were just some of the daily public safety challenges ADOT crews confront to keep drivers safe, and traffic moving. Crashes, criminal damage, wildlife encounters, and ever-changing weather conditions are at the core of ADOT’s public safety responsibility, and often require highway workers to spend nights, holidays and weekends away from family to conquer critical safety issues.

"This serves to remind us that these types of extreme, unpredictable weather events are exactly what make the business of highway maintenance difficult and poses public safety challenges that only ADOT can tackle. The same set of rules applied to work done in a climate controlled office simply can’t be applied to work done in bad weather, or in the midst of traffic," said Lonnie Hendrix, assistant state engineer for maintenance. "Highways are like living creatures. They respond to their environments, need care and attention, and sometimes surprise you."

The public safety role at ADOT includes a range of roles, including helping drivers avoid weather and closures, reducing the likelihood of stranded motorists and crashes. For the January storm, ADOT – in its biggest push yet – used social networking site Twitter to keep drivers and community leaders informed of closures, problems and delays. Over four days, 209 messages were transmitted via the site – Twitter.com/ArizonaDOT – reaching an estimated 426,000 readers across the state. This was on top of three dozen local, state and national media interviews and more than 210,000 combined phone calls to 511 and az511.gov for travel information.

"Because ADOT is more than highways, we have employees inspecting commercial and passenger vehicles, designing and planning roadways, supporting public transit safety requirements, communicating public-safety hazards, and screening potential drivers before issuing licenses," Halikowski said. "This is a massive responsibility. It requires a spirit of service and clear recognition – ADOT is a public safety team."

Tonto National forest recreation specialists have announced that the Acacia day use area at Canyon Lake will be closed starting March 1st, until April 30th, due to construction projects.

The parking lot at Acacia will be closed as well as all rest-room facilities, picnic tables and armadas. There will be no beach access to Acacia including the picnic area immediately adjacent to the east and all sites west of Acacia to Key Hole. Key Hole is also closed. The designated "no boating area" at Acacia will not be open to swimming.

"This planned construction activity is to improve and replace existing structures at Acacia Day Use Area," stated Cody Clark, specialist for Special Uses, Recreation and Lands. "We do want everyone to know, however, that all other sites at Canyon Lake will be open and operational during the Acacia construction including Palo Verde, Bolder, Laguna and Tortilla Flat Campground."

Arizona Corporation Commissioner Paul Newman, State Senator Rebecca Rios, Coolidge Mayor Thomas Shope and County Supervisor David Snider are among the elected officials who will join in a Community Forum on Jobs and Economic Growth, led by USDA agencies Rural Development and Farm Service Agency on Friday, March 19th, in Coolidge.

The forum is in response to a meeting at the White House where President Barack Obama summoned over a hundred corporate executives, economists, small-business owners and union leaders to sound out ideas for accelerating job growth during the worst labor market in a generation.

USDA was one of the departments tapped to take that brainstorming format out to the people most affected. Farm Service Agency Executive Director Robert Piceno and Rural Development State Director Alan Stephens are conducting the forum.

USDA state offices were asked to get ideas from people in their local rural communities as to what the Federal government can actually do to stimulate job growth for their community. According to Rural Development State Director Alan Stephens, "the people closest to the problem often have the best insight into how to solve it." Pinal County, like the rest of the state, has seen a loss of jobs.

This Jobs Forum will be held from 1 pm to 3 pm in the Coolidge City Council Chambers at 130 W. Central Avenue in Coolidge. Invited are elected officials, labor groups, schools and colleges, community leaders, local government and tribal representatives, business leaders and, of course, members of the public. Stephens said that the input from this forum will be sent to Washington DC to ensure that "an idea voiced in a house in Pinal County, Arizona, will get an audience at the House on Pennsylvania Avenue."