Net Neutrality and the eBay Community: A Call to Action

From Meg Whitman:

Dear eBay Community Member,

As you know, I almost never reach out to you personally with a request to get involved in a debate in the U.S. Congress. However, today I feel I must.

Right now, the telephone & cable companies in control of Internet access are trying to use their enormous political muscle to dramatically change the Internet. It might be hard to believe, but lawmakers in Washington are seriously debating whether consumers should be free to use the Internet as they want in the future.

The phone & cable companies now control more than 95% of all Internet access. These large corporations are spending millions of dollars to promote legislation that would divide the Internet into a 2-tiered system.

The top tier would be a "Pay-to-Play" high-speed toll-road restricted to only the largest companies that can afford to pay high fees for preferential access to the Net.

The bottom tier -- the slow lane -- would be what is left for everyone else. If the fast lane is the information "super-highway," the slow lane will operate more like a dirt road.

Today's Internet is an incredible open marketplace for goods, services, information & ideas. We can't give that up. A 2 lane system will restrict innovation because start-ups & small companies -- the companies that can't afford the high fees -- will be unable to succeed, & we'll lose out on the jobs, creativity & inspiration that come with them.

The power belongs with Internet users, not the big phone & cable companies. Let's use that power to send as many messages as possible to our elected officials in Washington. Please join me by clicking here right now to send a message to your representatives in Congress before it is too late. You can make the difference.

Thank you for reading this note. I hope you'll make your voice heard today.

Sincerely,
Meg Whitman
President & CEO eBay Inc.
P.S. If you have any questions about this issue, please contact us at government_relations@ebay.com.

Kyle Busch Fined & Placed On Probation

Today, NASCAR announced that Kyle Busch has been fined, penalized & placed on probation for his actions in Sunday night's Nextel Cup Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Busch violated Section 12-4-A (actions detrimental to stock car racing) of the NASCAR rule book & has been fined $50,000, penalized 25 Driver Championship points, & placed on probation until December 31st. As a result of the points penalty, Busch has now dropped to 10th spot in the Nextel Cup standings, 14 points behind Kevin Harvick. The infraction also resulted in Hendrick Motorsports team owner Rick Hendrick being penalized 25 Owner Championship points. Also, Don Richardson, crew member on the No. 5 Chevrolet team, has been fined $5,000 & placed on probation until Dec. 31st. He violated 12-4-A, because of improper use of a NASCAR credential.

Busch would have had a top-5 finish with the 87 laps remaining Sunday when Casey Mears, lost control of his car & spun out along the backstretch bouncing off the wall & into Busch. Mears continued, but Busch's car was badly damaged enough, that he was unable to finish the race. NASCAR officials were attempting to guide Busch to the garage area, but he broke free & went towards the track & tossed part of his HANS device at Mears' Dodge Charger.

Also, announced by NASCAR today, Jeremy Mayfield's Dodge was found to be in violation of multiple sections (12-4-A, 12-4-Q - car, car parts, components &/or equipment used that do not conform to NASCAR rules) & Section 20-12.8.1A (roof height too low in post-race inspection). Mayfield was penalized 25 points, team owner Ray Evernham lost 25 points & crew chief Ted Andrews was fined $35,000.

Kyl Calls For National Child Abusers Database

U.S. Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ) was joined today by John Reid, Executive Director of Childhelp USA, & Beckie Miller, Arizona Chapter Leader of Parents of Murdered Children, in calling on Congress to authorize the creation of national registry of child abusers.

"The problem now is that once abusive parents or guardians come to the attention of authorities, they often will pack up & move to a different jurisdiction," said Kyl. "Creating a national database will enable law enforcement to better investigate & prosecute cases of child abuse by knowing about past incidents of abuse that a person has committed elsewhere. Abusers wouldn't be able to beat the system by simply packing up & moving."

Kyl is the author of S. 1940, the Childhelp National Registry Act - a bill that would create a national database of persons convicted of child abuse or neglect. Since Kyl introduced it, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation (H.R. 4472, the Children’s Safety Act, passed March 8th, 2006) that included the Childhelp provision. Democrat-raised objections prevented the House-passed bill from being considered in the Senate. Instead, a child crimes bill (S. 1086, the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Grant Act) was passed on May 3rd in the Senate but without the Childhelp provision in it.

The House & Senate must now reconcile H.R. 4472 & S. 1086. Kyl is on the bicameral committee that will do this. He said that he will push the committee to pass a unified bill that contains the Childhelp provision he authored, creating the national database of child abusers.

"I am disappointed the Senate didn't approve a bill with language to create a registry of child abusers. As a conferee, I'll push to see that we produce a bill that includes this critically important tool in the fight against child abuse," said Kyl.

Air Quality Permit Draft Renewal

ADEQ Director Steve Owens today announced that the department has issued a draft renewal of the air quality permit for the Arizona Clean Fuels (ACF) refinery proposed near Tacna in Yuma County.

ADEQ issued an air quality permit for the refinery last year. Under Arizona law, ACF has 18 months - until November 2006 - to commence construction of the refinery or the permit lapses. Earlier this year ACF advised ADEQ that the company would be unable to commence construction by the deadline, & the company applied for a renewal of the current permit. Under the proposed permit renewal, ACF would be required to commence construction of the refinery within 18 months of the permit's effective date, which would mean that the new 18-month period would end during April or May 2008, depending on when the renewed permit is finalized. It would put the same strict limits on potential emissions from the refinery as the current permit. Like the current permit, the renewed permit would be good for 5 years.

"We are really just reissuing the same permit we issued last year," ADEQ Director Owens said. "It is still the toughest air quality permit ever crafted for a refinery."

The refinery would be located on approx., 1,450-acres near Tacna & could produce approx., 150,000 barrels per day of motor fuels, including approx., 85,000 barrels per day of motor gasoline, 35,000 barrels per day of diesel fuel & 30,000 barrels per day of jet fuel.

ADEQ will hold a public hearing on the air quality permit renewal on Thurs., July 6th, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at the Wellton Elementary School, on 29126 East San Jose Avenue in Wellton.

Materials related to the permit, including the application, ADEQ's analysis & the draft permit are available for review at the Wellton Town Clerk's Office, on 28634 Oakland Avenue in Wellton, & at the Yuma City Clerk's Office, 1 City Plaza in Yuma.

The public comment period on the draft permit renewal will close Thurs., July 6th, 2006. Written comments concerning this draft permit should be directed to Director, Air Quality Division, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, 1110 West Washington Street, 3415A-1, Phoenix, Arizona 85007-2935.

5 More Years

The Phoenix Coyotes' reached a 5 year deal with Wayne Gretzky to remain their head coach.

Heard Museum WEST Opens June 24th

On Saturday, June 24th, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Heard Museum will unveil its 2nd location, this time in Surprise. The new location features a classroom for children's hands-on activities, tours, adult programs & continuing education. The Heard Museum West's 1st long-term exhibition will be "Our Stories." The location for the Heard Museum West is at Civic Center Plaza & Paradise Lane (east of Surprise Staduim) on 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, in Surprise. Admission is FREE to the public during this community-wide celebration. To learn more, please call (623) 344-2200 or visit www.heard.org.

Copper Rim Registration

Copper Rim Elementary will be accepting registrations for K-4th until June 15th. Parents Guardian must provide a certified copy of the students birth certificate & immunization records when registering. The office hours are: Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. & 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

If enrolling a Kindegarten student, please bring the student with you so he/she can be screened. Screening times are 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. KG students with complete enrollment, including screening will be eligible for KG jumpstart to be held July 10th - 20th.

For any questions contact Marcy at 425-8924.

Mesa Art League Fine Art Show

Starting this Saturday, thru the end of July, at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, you & your family are invited for a day of Fine Art & Picnic fun! Start the summer with a stroll through the park, even the family dog can join in (on a leash). Before you take your walk, stop to see the wonderful art work of the Mesa Art League. There will be 2 art displays, one in the Boyce Thompson Arboretum Gallery & the “Fence Art Show.” The artists will be on hand to chat with, & many will have prints, note cards, & originals for sale. Get there early for a special treat! At 10 am, Impressionist oil painter, Cindy Carrillo will be giving a plein air demonstration & as a native Arizonan from Superior she knows the area very well. So, get those walking shoes on, pack a picnic lunch & come out to support your local artists! The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located on, U.S. 60 at milepost 223, just West of Superior. Admission to the Arboretum is, $7.50 for adults & $ 3.00 for ages 5 to 12. For more info regarding the Mesa Art League, check out, http://www.mesaartleague.com/.

Bullion Plaza's First Friday Program

"Bill Roten & Friends - Fiddle Music & Fun," is set for June 2nd, at 6 p.m. on the lawn at the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum in Miami. Don't forget to bring a chair or cushion. Cold water will be available so no one gets too thirsty while enjoying the evening. The event is FREE to all that wish to be entertained for the evening. The 1st Friday programs are sponsored by the Bullion Plaza Center in Miami & the Gila Co. Historical Society.

Gila Community College Foundation Tournament

The Gila Community College Foundation for Higher Education is sponsoring a golf tournament at the Apache Stronghold Golf Course on Saturday, July 1st, 2006. Proceeds will go towards the scholarship fund. The format is a 4-person scramble. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Special events, with trophies awarded, will include longest drive, closest to the pin, & longest putt. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, & prizes to raffle off.

The entry cost is $60 per person with lunch included. The registration deadline is now Saturday, June 24th, 2006. For more info or if you would like to purchase a tee box sign, donate prizes or cash, please contact Patricia at (928) 402-8145 or (928) 701-2241.

Complaint Filed Against Len Munsil

The Arizona Democratic Party has filed a complaint with the Arizona Secretary of State, against gubernatorial candidate Len Munsil, citing the failure of his campaign website to identify the source of its funding. Arizona Revised Statute § 16-912(A) requires that campaign literature &/or advertisements which expressly advocate for the election or defeat of a political candidate identify its source of funding. Section § 16-912(A) reads:

“A political committee that makes an expenditure for campaign literature or advertisements that expressly advocate the election or defeat of any candidate or that make any solicitation of contributions to any political committee shall be registered pursuant to this chapter at the time of distribution, placement or solicitation & shall include on the literature or advertisement the words ‘paid for by’ followed by the name of the committee that appears on its statement of organization or $500 exemption statement.” Ariz. Rev. Stat. § 16-912(A)(emphasis added).

Democrats attached photocopies to their complaint of www.lenmunsil.com as it appeared online on April 17th, 2006 and May 30th, 2006. An electronic copy of the May 30th, 2006 photocopy can be viewed at: http://azdem.org/munsilweb5-30.jpg.

“As is clear from these records, Mr. Munsil’s campaign has failed to follow the plain language of Arizona law,” said Arizona Democratic Party Chairman David Waid. “On behalf of the citizens of Arizona & the Arizona Democratic Party, I respectfully request that this matter be investigated & the appropriate penalty be imposed.

”Under Arizona Revised Statute § 16-912(E), a person or committee who violates the disclosure requirements of § 16-912, “is subject to a civil penalty of up to 3 times the cost of producing & distributing the literature or advertisement.”

Cable One Now Has GAC

Globe-Miami Cable One subscribers can now follow their favorite country artists on Ch. 320 on Cable One's Digital Value Pack. Find out what's on by checking out there SCHEDULE. Take note, these times are Eastern.

Hell Yeah!!!

After tonights Suns 106-86 victory, the series is now tied 2-2. Game 5 is set for June 1st, at 5:30 pm PT on TNT.

Germann & Higley Roads To Close

The intersection of Germann & Higley roads will be closed to all traffic starting tomorrow night at 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. June 5th. This closure is in place so work crews are able to install a 66" sewer line as part of construction of the Greenfield Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Gilbert plant, will be shared with Mesa & Queen Creek, & eventually will treat 45 million gallons of wastewater a day near Greenfield & Queen Creek roads.

“Phoenix Suns Week”

To celebrate the Phoenix Suns’ incredible season & declare this “Phoenix Suns Week,” Gov. Janet Napolitano will join Suns team members, The Gorilla, Suns’ Chairman & CEO Jerry Colangelo & Suns Dancers at an event tomorrow at 1 p.m. at the Casino Arizona Pavilion at the U.S. Airways Center. Additionally, the Governor will deem the Suns an “Arizona Treasure.” Such a designation is reserved for places, groups & events that are a source of pride for the state.

City Of Globe Council Meeting

The Special Council Meeting is tomorrow at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Building on 150 N. Pine St. in Globe. Items of interest regard the consideration & possible approval of an inter-governmental 10-year agreement for construction on a helibase containg 3 helipads near the 2 new Hagen water tanks, amongst other tie-ins to that subject matter. Also, a request to consider & possibly authorize the city manager to publish a notice of request for proposals for building demolition & abatement of fire-caused debris from both the Pioneer Hotel site & the old Globe Theater properties, to further facilitate development of a multi-screen movie theater complex at the S.E. corner of the intersection of Cedar St. & N. Broad St. in Historic Downtoan Globe, as presented.

World No Tobacco Day

The 19th observance of "World No Tobacco Day" is tomorrow, May 31st. This is for all forms of tobacco used. The World Health Organization annually sponsors the World No Tobacco Day to call attention to the seriousness of the impact tobacco has on one persons health. WNTD, was created by a World Health Assembly Resolution in 1988, & is 1 of only 4 UN-agency related world days. Additional materials including Cessation Tips & Fast Facts about health improvements for a tobacco user's body after quitting check out the information available at: ASHLINE.

Arizona Virtual Academy Sessions

These parent information sessions are your chance to interact with AZVA staff while you learn more about the program. During these 60-minute sessions, they'll review their K-12 curriculum, demonstrate their lessons & materials, & answer questions you may have. This is also a good time to turn in those enrollment forms. Come on out and join them at a session near you!

Gilbert
Monday, June 5th
La Quinta Inn & Suites Mesa East
6530 Superstition Springs Blvd
5 pm High School
7 pm K–8 Grades

Cottonwood
Wednesday, June 7th
Cottonwood Public Library
100 South Sixth Street
3:00pm High School
6:00pm K–8 Grades

Mesa
Monday, June 12th
Country Inn & Suites
6650 East Superstition Spring Blvd
7:00pm High School

Phoenix
Tuesday, June 13th
Hampton Inn
601 North 44th Street
7 pm K–8 Grades

Show Low
Wednesday, June 14th
Sleep Inn
151 West Deuce of Clubs
5 pm High School
7 pm K–8 Grades

North Tucson, Oro Valley
Tuesday, June 13th
Holiday Inn Express Oro Valley
10150 N. Oracle Road
7 pm High School

Safford
Tuesday, June 20th
Quality Inn & Suites
420 East Highway 70
5 pm High School
7 pm K–8 Grades

New National Bank of Arizona Branch

The National Bank of Arizona has announced their opening a 10,000-square-foot, Oro Valley branch office at 7601 N. Oracle Road on June 5th.

Arid Lands Studies Tonight In Eager

Tonight, Dr. Lay Gibson, the U. of A. Director of the Economic Development Research Program of the Office of Arid Lands Studies, will speak in Eager. He will make his presentation to the members and guests of the Arizona Sustainable Forests Partnership, from 7 - 8:30 p.m., in the Eagar Town Council Chambers (22 West 2nd street). His topic is an assessment of the economic impact attributable to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Stewardship Contract. Gibson's focus has been rural Arizona, & his research aims at determining how money is generated by local businesses & how it circulates.

Game 4 Tonight

The Mavericks lead the series 2-1, but the Suns can tie it up tonight at 6 p.m. PT, on TNT.

Eloy Chamber Luncheon

The City of Eloy's Chamber of Commerce their Noon lunch meeting will be on June 1st, at the Iron Skillet Restaurant at the Petro Stopping Center, on 5235 N. Sunland Gin Road. Joan Warren, with Central Arizona College Workforce Development, is scheduled as the featured speaker. The public is welcome to attend.

Free Hearing Tests For Miami

This is at the Miami Senior Center on 506 Live Oak, this Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The FREE tests will be conducted by a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist. They will do a visual inspection of the ear & conduct an elecronic hearing screening evaluation. There is no charge for testing or counseling. This is a great opportunity to seek help & ask questions if you feel that hearing aids are in your future.

Mining Conference

The American Mining History Assoc., will be meeting Thursday thu Sunday, June 1st - 4th, with over 150 people from around the world expected, plus local interested persons. The conference meetings, luncheons, & banquet will be held at the Apache Gold Casino with a variety of history papers on the agenda, including several on the mining & history of this area. Field trips will also take place during the event. A reception & open house will be held at the Gila Co. Historical Museum on the evening of June 1st. Registration is at the casino from 2-5 p.m. on Thursday & starting at 8 a.m. on Friday & Saturday. More details & a copy of the program are available at the Gila Co. Historical Museum. For more information, call the museum at 425-7385 or Bill at 425-4344.

DUI Task Force

Globe PD officers working the DUI Task Force made a total of 4 arrests, 1 DUI arrest, & conducted 21 traffic stops.

Drowning At Roosevelt

26-year-old Jeremy James Turley drowned after jumping into the lake to cool off Friday afternoon. Wind & water conditions allowed the boat to drift away from the victim & they were unable to reach him before it was too late. This incident occurred off the Coyote Loop in Windy Hill. The Roosevelt Lake Patrol Units were advised at 1:24 p.m. Upon arriving at the scene Deputies Kemper & Jones immediately called for the dive team. Divers began recovery operations around 3 p.m. that afternoon & continued til Sunday morning when they recovered Turley's body at around 11:30 a.m. No word if any alcohol was involved.

Water & Wastewater Workshop

The Water & Wastewater Workshop is on June 8th, at the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality Building on 1110 W. Washington St. in Phoenix, in Room 250. Classes start at 8 a.m. & finish at 11:30 a.m. They anticipate awarding 3 PDHs for this workshop. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, agenda items & total number of PDHs offered may change without notice.

These workshops can run long, so allow for flexibility in your schedule in case changes occur. Partial PDHs will not be awarded; plan on attending the entire workshop. There's no need to register in advance; you can register at the door the morning of the workshop. However, you must sign in at the main ADEQ desk in the lobby & obtain a visitor ID badge, which must be displayed on the premises. Free parking is available in their garage, at the NW corner of 10th Ave. & Washington St. The visitor's entrance is located off Washington. There is also on-street parking available on 10th & 12th Avenues & Adams St. There is no fee for this workshop. If you have additional questions, contact the ADEQ Safe Drinking Water Section at (602) 771-4644 or, toll free in Arizona, (800) 234-5677, Ext. 771-4644.

Justin Fenstermaker Fund

Fenstermaker, was a Town of Queen Creek employee & resident that was killed in a traffic accident on May 18th. Donations may be made to the Justin Fenstermaker Memorial Account at the Union Bank on 20713 E. Ocotillo Road No. 101. Fenstermaker is survived by his wife and their 7-month-old baby.

Gila Co. Kids Rodeo Fun Day

The Kids Rodeo is at the Globe Fair Grounds on June 3rd at 9:30 a.m. This is a FREE event & they will have a snack stand on the grounds.

Computer Labs Open

Starting today, thru June 29th, the computer labs at Bejarano Elementary, Lee Kornegay, & the Miami High School Library will be open to students, parents, & the community to use. Parents, you can take of this advantage to keep your kids knowledge up on reading, math, writing, science, & social studies. The Internet is also their to check e-mail, do research for an on-line class, genealogy, job searches, etc. (porn searches will not be tolerated). As a bonus, it is a nice, out of the heat, place to be in the summer.

AYSO Registration

This is the 1st registration, I will let you know when the other sign-ups are. Early registration begins for boys & girls ages 5-18, on Friday June 2nd, at Wal-Mart from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. & on June 3rd, from noon to 2 p.m. The cost is $50 per player or $45 for a 2nd child, & $40 for a 3rd child. The cost includes: New uniforms for each player to keep, Awards for all players, & Insurance provided with registration. This registration is for Globe-Miami, Kearny, San Carlos, Hayden-Winklemen, & Superior youth only. This is because the other areas are part of another region. Volunteers are needed for Board positions, Referees, & Coaches. The training is FREE, & you'll need to call 812-3984 for questions. For more info call 425-9471 or 812-3984.

"Burn Camp Open"

The United Yavapai Firefighters, whose members are firefighters in the communities of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Mayer, & Black Canyon City are sponsoring the 12th annual "Burn Camp Open" golf tournament. This years tournament will be held on June 17th, on the Antelope Hills Golf Course, North Course. All proceeds from the tournament benefit children who have suffered debilitating burns to attend Burn Camp, "Camp Courage." To donate, or for more info, or to register, call Daniel at, 928-445-5555.

Country CDs Out Today

Ralph Stanley - "A Distant Land To Roam - Songs Of The Carter Family"
Kris Kristofferson - "Live from Austin, Texas [Live]"
Brenda Lee - "Let Me Sing/By Request"
Dave Alvin - "West of the West"
Charley Pride - "Essential Charley Pride [Original recording remastered]"
Gentlemen of Country - "Gentlemen of Country [Import]"

Some DVDs Out Today

Night Stalker - The Complete Series
Platoon: 20th Anniv. Ed.
Date Movie
Freedomland
Riddick Trilogy
Smokey and the Bandit - Spec. Ed.
Alf: Season Three
Marilyn Monroe Special Anniv. Collection
The Kids In The Hall: Complete Season 4
The Dukes of Hazzard - Complete 6th Season
John Wayne: An American Icon Collection
The Venture Bros. - Season 1
Numb3rs: Complete 1st Season
Oh! Calcutta!
The St. Valentine's Day Massacre
The Lon Chaney, Jr., Collection

3-1 Lead

After tonight's 89-78 win the Miami Heat now lead the Eastern Championship Series, 3-1, over the Detroit Pistons.

103 Canyon Fire Crews

Globe Hotshots, Payson Hotshots, Pleasant Valley Hotshots, Ft Apache Hotshots, Geronimo Hotshots, Blue Ridge Hotshots, Craig Hotshots, Feather River Hotshots, Eldorado Hotshots, Florence DOC, Lewis DOC, & Tankers (T-55, T-07, 7AB, & Lead 49). Also, crews in the area are getting threats, mainly due to the armed smugglers & illegal aliens around the scene.

Death Near Kearny

A 17-year-old boy riding in the back of a pickup truck on an inflatable raft was blown out of the truck by a gust of wind, & was killed when he fell out of the moving vehicle onto State Route 77. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Watson Wash Closed

The Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Safford Field Office completed an Emergency Closure of the Watson Wash hot tub area on May 25th. Watson Wash, located across the Gila River north of Thatcher, is the site of an artesian hot spring on public lands.

While the area's been used for legitimate soaking & camping, it's mainly an all-night weekend party spot, resulting in significant management challenges for both the BLM & local law enforcement agencies. Problems at the site include drug use, alcohol abuse, & violence, some of which have resulted in deaths. Unlawful activities at the hot tub have affected neighbors living in the surrounding area by home invasions & late-night requests for help.

Since '97, the BLM worked to resolve issues related to the site &, in '99, a community-based partnership team began work on a management plan for the site. Other considerations in the planning process included salinity of the well as a potential pollutant to the Gila River, the popularity of the site for therapeutic bathing, a mining claim on the lithium in the water, & past & potential threatened & endangered fish habitat. Due to the complexity of the issues, the team never selected a Preferred Alternative.

In '04-'05, the Gila Watershed Partnership spearheaded efforts to complete the plan with the understanding that, if the community group failed to select a Preferred Alternative, the BLM would likely close the site & cap the well. The team failed to reach consensus &, due to recent escalations in violence at Watson Wash, the BLM closed the site on May 25th, removing the hot tub & capping the well.

"We felt a deep responsibility to those in the area of the tub that have been impacted by the illicit activities taking place in the neighborhood & we are responding to requests from city & county officials & pleas from law enforcement officers asking for a resolution of this ongoing problem," said Safford Field Manager Bill Brandau. A petition had also been circulated in the Gila Valley asking for the site's closure.

For further info about the Emergency Closure, contact Tom, Assistant Field Manager in Safford, at (928) 348-4420, or call Bill Brandau at 348-4461.

Support Our Servicemen/Women Tournament

The Gila County Support Our Servicemen/Women will be holding a golf tournament on June 10th, at the Cobre Valley Country Club. The tournament starts at 7:30 a.m., with registration up to 7 a.m. This an 18 hole 3-person scramble tournament. The cost is $40 (cart not included). Prizes & trophies will be awarded. For more info or to register, call the club at (928) 473-2542 or Pat at (928) 425-2101. If you would like to get a copy of the form to register you may also stop by the KRDE studios & ask for me, I'll make you a copy of the form to fill out.

USS Arizona Memorial Fundraising

Governor Janet Napolitano, the national chair of the Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund, is leading a grassroots effort to raise money necessary for the restoration of the Visitors Center at the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor. The Center is sinking into the harbor. Experts assessed the situation & determined that, after years of structural erosion & overcrowding, the Center has been damaged beyond repair. The facility will only be able to safely accommodate visitors for about 4 to 9 more years.

Replacing the Center will cost approximately $34 million. Arizona has committed to raise $3 million toward that total, as part of the nationwide campaign. So far, through the major gifts campaign, the effort has raised about half the needed amount. Those wishing to participate & contribute to the effort can find more info at http://www.pearlharbormemorial.com/.

A Moment Of Silence

In honor of those soldiers that have died, at 3 p.m. take a moment of silence to think about the sacrifices they made.

Gila Co. Memorial Day Service

The ceremonial service is at the Gila County Courthouse today at 11 a.m.

Glendale-Peoria Memorial Day Service

The Resthaven Park Cemetery & Sandy Coor Post 1433, Veterans of Foreign Wars are hosting a consolidated memorial service this morning at 9 a.m. in The Garden of Remembrance (western section) of the Resthaven Park Cemetery. Resthaven is located at 63rd Ave & Northern (6290 West Northern Avenue).

Flag Day

The Pinal Mountain Elks invite all residents of Globe-Miami & San Carlos, to help celebrate Flag Day this year. Activities will begin at 11 a.m. on June 17th, at the Gila County Courthouse. Come on out & see all the historic flags & celebrate being an American citizen.

History of Memorial Day

Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan declared that Decoration Day should be observed on May 30th. It is believed that date was chosen because flowers would be in bloom all over the country.

The ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. & Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ & Sailors’ Orphan Home & members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers & singing hymns.

Local Observances Claim To Be 1st Local springtime tributes to the Civil War dead already had been held in various places. One of the 1st occurred in Columbus, Miss., April 25th, 1866, when a group of women visited a cemetery to decorate the graves of Confederate soldiers who had fallen in battle at Shiloh. Nearby were the graves of Union soldiers, neglected because they were the enemy. Disturbed at the sight of the bare graves, the women placed some of their flowers on those graves, as well.

Many cities have claimed to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. However, the official birthplace was declared in 1966, Congress & President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., the “birthplace” of Memorial Day. There, a ceremony on May 5th, 1866, honored local veterans who had fought in the Civil War. Businesses closed & residents flew flags at half-staff. Supporters of Waterloo’s claim say earlier observances in other places were either informal, not community-wide or one-time events.

By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day ceremonies were being held on May 30th throughout the nation. State legislatures passed proclamations designating the day, & the Army & Navy adopted regulations for proper observance at their facilities.

It was not until after World War I, however, that the day was expanded to honor those who have died in all American wars. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress, though it is still often called Decoration Day. It was then also placed on the last Monday in May, as were some other federal holidays.

Gen. Logan’s order for his posts to decorate graves in 1868 “with the choicest flowers of springtime” urged: “We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance... Let pleasant paths invite the coming & going of reverent visitors & fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free & undivided republic.”

The crowd attending the 1st Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery was approximately the same size as those that attend today’s observance, about 5,000 people. Then, as now, small American flags were placed on each grave — a tradition followed at many national cemeteries today. In recent years, the custom has grown in many families to decorate the graves of all departed loved ones.

The origins of special services to honor those who die in war can be found in antiquity. The Athenian leader Pericles offered a tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War over 24 centuries ago that could be applied today to the 1.1 million Americans who have died in the nation’s wars: “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men.”

To ensure the sacrifices of America’s fallen heroes are never forgotten, in December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed & the president signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579, creating the White House Commission on the National Moment of Remembrance. The commission’s charter is to “encourage the people of the United States to give something back to their country, which provides them so much freedom and opportunity” by encouraging & coordinating commemorations in the United States of Memorial Day & the National Moment of Remembrance.

The National Moment of Remembrance encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember & honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.”

credit; The Department of Veterans Affairs

2-1

The Mavs withstood the Suns to win, 95-88. The next game is on Tuesday night.

Kasey Kahne Wins It

Kasey Kahne has won the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. He held off the winner of the last couple of years, Jimmie Johnson. The rest of the top 10 are: Edwards, Martin, Kenseth, Burton, Biffle, McMurray, Hamlin and Sorenson.

Arizona Fire Updates

ROMERO has burned 764 acres, & is 95% contained & lies on the west end of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Coronado National Forest near Catalina State Park in Tucson. Crews are going to continue patrolling & rehabbing the fireline. Type 3 Incident Commander (IC) Mark Nunez is managing the fire. The ROMERO fire was active last night. The resources assigned: 1 Type 1 crew, 1 Type 2 crew, 2 helicopters, 21 overhead, 61 total personnel.

NORTH TAYLOR has burdned 117 acres, & is also 95% contained & is burning on Mt. Graham in Coronado National Forest, 19 miles SW of Safford. Larry Raley's Eastern Arizona Type 2 Incident Management Team transferred command to Type 3 IC Mike McDonnell. Crews have continued to improve the containment line & the mop up process. Resources assigned: 3 Type 2 crews, 1 helicopters, 61 total personnel.

Restrictions:
The Gila National Forest is currently in Stage I Fire and Smoking restrictions. Open campfires are limited to designated campgrounds only and smoking is prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is cleared of flammable material. For more information about the current fire activity on the Gila National Forest, contact the Information Office at 388-8245. or visit: Restirictions.

"Don't mess with the bull, young man. You'll get the horns."

Paul Gleason, had used that memorable line as Principal Richard Vernon in "The Breakfast Club," died yesterday at the age of 67. Gleason died at a local hospital yesterday of mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer linked to asbestos. Other film/T.V. credits include: "All My Children," "Die Hard," "Johnny Be Good," "Friends," "Seinfeld," "Not Another Teen Movie," & "National Lampoon's Van Wilder."

Bought His Way In

After failing to qualify for the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe's Motor Speedway, Michael Waltrip transfered his No. 55 & NAPA sponsorship onto the car for today's race. Instead of risking his streak of 261 straight starts in jeopardy Waltrip. But Cope, who did make the field, sold Waltrip his Dodge so Waltrip could be in the race. Michael Waltrip received permission from NASCAR to have his car repainted 55. He was originally supposed to be 74 after purchasing his ride from Derrike Cope.

BALCO Barry Passes The Babe

BALCO Barry Bonds passed Ruth after hitting # 715 off of Colorado's Byung-Hyun Kim in the bottom of the 4th inning & is now in 2nd place on the career home-run list.

Indianapolis 500 Results

1. Sam Hornish Jr (6)
2. Marco Andretti (26)
3. Michael Andretti (1)
4. Dan Wheldon (10)
5. Tony Kanaan (11)
6. Scott Dixon (9)
7. Dario Franchitti (27)
8. Danica Patrick (16)
9. Scott Sharp (8)
10. Vitor Meira (4)

Gila Co. Kids Rodeo Fun Day

The Kids Rodeo is at the Globe Fair Grounds on June 3rd at 9:30 a.m. Categories include events for kids 8 & Under, 7-13 years, & 14-16 years. The number for entries or questions about what the categories are for the ages is: 602-237-3000. Call in entries, from 5 - 7 p.m. Late call-in entries are welcome if limits permit - NO WALKUPS. You must pre-enter at least 24 hrs before the rodeo. There will be a prize awarded to each event winner. Contestants MUST be checked in & paid by 8 a.m. the day of the rodeo (NO EXCEPTIONS!). This is a FREE event & they will have a snack stand on the grounds.

Computer Labs Open

Starting on May 30th, thru June 29th, The computer labs at Bejarano Elementary, Lee Kornegay, & the Miami High School Library will be open to students, parents, & the community to use. Parents, you can take of this advantage to keep your kids knowledge up on reading, math, writing, science, & social studies. The Internet is also their to check e-mail, do research for an on-line class, genealogy, job searches, etc. (no porn searches will be tolerated). As a bonus, it is a nice, out of the heat, place to be in the summer.

Pre-race Concert Headliner

Carrie Underwood is the headline act at the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 pre-race concert at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Charlotte, North Carolina today & will also sing the national anthem prior to the big race. The NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 starts at 2 p.m. (Az time) on FOX & is scheduled to end at 7 p.m. The Apache Gold Casino is kicking off their Race Days in the Cabaret with today's race, so get out there, bring your friends & watch this race on a hi-def projection screen & feel like your at Lowe's. The Race Day Sundays will go on until the last race of the season.

AYSO Registration

This is the 1st registration, I will let you know when the other sign-ups are. Early registration begins for boys & girls ages 5-18, on Friday June 2nd, at Wal-Mart from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. & on June 3rd, from noon to 2 p.m. The cost is $50 per player or $45 for a 2nd child, & $40 for a 3rd child. The cost includes: New uniforms for each player to keep, Awards for all players, & Insurance provided with registration. This registration is for Globe-Miami, Kearny, San Carlos, Hayden-Winklemen, & Superior youth only. This is because the other areas are part of another region. Volunteers are needed for Board positions, Referees, & Coaches. The training is FREE, & you'll need to call 812-3984 for questions. For more info call 425-9471 or 812-3984.

Support Our Servicemen/Women Tournament

The Gila County Support Our Servicemen/Women will be holding a golf tournament on June 10th, at the Cobre Valley Country Club. The tournament starts at 7:30 a.m., with registration up to 7 a.m. This an 18 hole 3-person scramble tournament. The cost is $40 (cart not included). Prizes & trophies will be awarded. For more info or to register, call the club at (928) 473-2542 or Pat at (928) 425-2101. If you would like to get a copy of the form to register you may also stop by the KRDE studios & ask for me, I'll make you a copy of the form to fill out.

The Globe Public Pool Is Open

The pool opened for the summer yesterday & will remain open until August 4th. Kids up to 8 are $ 1 per day, swimmers 8 & up are $2 per day (Non-swimming adults supervising their kids in the Baby Pool are not charged). Family Summer Pass (up 6 members of Immediate Family): $85 or $50 for a Single Summer Pass. Events are being planned through the Summer. On a sad note, due to the 4 positions being unfilled the "Kids Kamp," is a no go this year.

Looks Familiar

After last nights series tying loss to the Mavs, the Suns will face the Mavs tomorrow evening at 5:30 p.m. (our time) on TNT.

Indy 500

Michael Schumacher has been stripped of the pole position at the Monaco Grand Prix after stewards ruled he deliberately stopped his car on the track during qualifying. Fernando Alonso will now start from the pole. The Indy 500 is tomorrow at 1 p.m. ET on A.B.C.

Water & Wastewater Workshop

The Water & Wastewater Workshop is on June 8th, at the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality Building on 1110 W. Washington St. in Phoenix, in Room 250. Classes start at 8 a.m. & finish at 11:30 a.m. They anticipate awarding 3 PDHs for this workshop. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, agenda items and total number of PDHs offered may change without notice.

The workshops often run long, so allow some flexibility in your schedule in case changes occur. Partial PDHs will not be awarded; plan on attending the entire workshop. There's no need to register in advance; you can register at the door the morning of the workshop. However, you must sign in at the main ADEQ desk in the lobby & obtain a visitor ID badge, which must be displayed on the premises. Free parking is available in their garage, at the NW corner of 10th Ave. & Washington St. The visitor's entrance is located off Washington. There is also on-street parking available on 10th & 12th Avenues & Adams St. There is no fee for this workshop. If you have additional questions, contact the ADEQ Safe Drinking Water Section at (602) 771-4644 or, toll free in Arizona, (800) 234-5677, Ext. 771-4644.

"Improved Balance For Women"

That is the subject matter of the June 14th conference of The Greater Tucson chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). They will look at the balance between professional success & personal fulfillment at its 7th annual Women in Balance Conference on June 14th at the Hilton El Conquistador Golf & Tennis Resort, on 10000 N. Oracle Road. The event includes a business expo & a silent auction fundraiser to support the chapter. The conference ends with a gala reception. The cost for NAWBO mebers that register by May 29th, is $105, or it will be $125 after that date. The cost for non-members is $150. To register, call (520) 326-2926 or visit www.nawbotucson.org.

Mining Conference

The American Mining History Assoc., will be meeting in the area from Thursday through Sunday, June 1st - 4th, with over 150 people from around the world expected to be in attendance, plus local interested persons. The conference meetings, luncheons, & banquet will be held at the Apache Gold Casino with a variety of history papers on the agenda, including several on the mining & history of this area. Field trips will also take place during the event. A reception & open house will be held at the Gila Co. Historical Museum on the evening of June 1st. Registration will be held at the casino from 2-5 p.m. on Thursday & starting at 8 a.m. on Friday & Saturday. More details & a copy of the program are available at the Gila Co. Historical Museum. For more information, call the museum at 425-7385 or Bill at 425-4344.

Shop Highlights For 5-27-06

Leather Living Room Furniture set. has a Couch, Love Seat, Chair & Ottoman. Buff color, good Condition. $350. call 602 625-6389

white crib that is in excellent condition. $60. for more information call 623-674-2663.

A Queen Size sofa Hide-A-Bed, very good condition, $100 firm. 425-9696.

Free companion horse. 20 year old gelding, awesome quarterhorse. Please call 928-684-2328

Manco "Quicksilver" 2 Seater Go Kart - $800 obo. call 480-987-3581.

Schwinn Air-Dyne Exercise Bike, pearl white. excellent condition. $350. Call 602-997-8074

5 piece Pearl Session Series Drum Set, emerald green in color. $750. Please call if interested. William 602-206-8870

Coleman Model 105 hot tub, seats 5 people. Asking $1,500. Call 480-650-5928

giant travel kennel. 36"T x 28"W x 43"D PetMate Pet carrier. Holds big breeds (they have a Malamute). Used once. 602-809-2323

Chihuahua/Pomeranian Mix. Female, solid black, 8 wks old. sweet, small & cute. $175. 623-386-8158

2003 chevy silverado - $15000. Any questons call Joe at 480-390-1288.

1970 Ford stepside F100 pickup. $2500. If you are interested, call 480-329-9275.

2002 Suzuki LT80 quad automatic in perfect condition. $1500. 602-501-4211

2006 Harley-Davidson XL 1200 Custom Sportster, $12600. Call James at 480-854-0546

2005 CBR 1000rr Black, titanium, 690 miles. - $9000. 602-405-3945.

Bullion Plaza's First Friday Program

"Bill Roten & Friends - Fiddle Music & Fun," is set for June 2nd, at 6 p.m. on the lawn at the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum in Miami. Don't forget to bring a chair or cushion. Cold water will be available so no one gets too thirsty while enjoying the evening. The event is FREE to all that wish to be entertained for the evening. The 1st Friday programs are sponsored by the Bullion Plaza Center in Miami & the Gila Co. Historical Society.

6th Annual Round Mtn Walk/Run

For more info on the June 3rd event (times, prices, location, fee, food) call the Globe-Miami Chamber at 928-425-4495 or 1-800-8045623. You may also go to, The Chamber or send an email to gmr@cableone.net. Make checks payable to: Globe Rotary Club-Round Mountain.

Gila Community College Foundation Tournament

The Gila Community College Foundation for Higher Education will be sponsoring a golf tournament at the Apache Stronghold Golf Course on Saturday, July 1st, 2006. Proceeds will go towards the scholarship fund. The format is a 4-person scramble. Registration begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Special events, with trophies awarded, will include longest drive, closest to the pin, & longest putt. There will also be a 50/50 raffle, silent auction, & prizes to raffle off.

The entry cost is $60 per person with lunch included. The registration deadline is now Saturday, June 24th, 2006. For more info or if you would like to purchase a tee box sign, donate prizes or cash, please contact Patricia at (928) 402-8145 or (928) 701-2241.

Mesa Art League Fine Art Show

From June 3rd, thru the end of July, at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum, you & your family are invited for a day of Fine Art & Picnic fun! Start the summer with a stroll through the park, even the family dog can join in (on a leash). Before you take your walk, stop to see the wonderful art work of the Mesa Art League. There will be 2 art displays, one in the Boyce Thompson Arboretum Gallery & the “Fence Art Show.” The artists will be on hand to chat with, & many will have prints, note cards, & originals for sale. Get there early for a special treat! At 10 am, Impressionist oil painter, Cindy Carrillo will be giving a plein air demonstration & as a native Arizonan from Superior she knows the area very well. So, get those walking shoes on, pack a picnic lunch & come out to support your local artists! The Boyce Thompson Arboretum is located on, U.S. 60 at milepost 223, just West of Superior. Admission to the Arboretum is, $7.50 for adults & $ 3.00 for ages 5 to 12. For more info regarding the Mesa Art League, check out, http://www.mesaartleague.com/.

Congressman Rick Renzi Schedule:

Congressman Rick Renzi (AZ-1) will visit several towns & chapters on the Navajo Nation as well as other rural Arizona communities including Williams, Seligman, Ash Fork, Skull Valley, & Prescott.

On Wednesday May 31st, Congressman Renzi will travel to Cornfields to congratulate Vernalda Haskie, who received an appointment to West Point Military Academy. He will visit Burnside for Coffee with the Congressman event at Ganado High School & will then attend a Coffee with the Congressman in both Nazlini & Steamboat.

On Thursday June 1st, Congressman Renzi will be in Williams for a tour of the Williams airport. Congressman Renzi has introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to convey airport land owned by the federal government to the City of Williams. The goal of the legislation is to encourage jobs, generate additional airport revenue & help the Williams' economy grow. The measure will expand the use of the Williams airport, & provide the city with flexibility to use the surrounding property for an industrial park & other airport facilities.

After the event in Williams, Renzi will travel to Seligman for Coffee with the Congressman at the Seligman Public Library. Renzi will then travel to Ash Fork for a tour of a saw mill under construction that will aid in forest thinning & produce wood pellets & other bio-mass fuels. Congressman Renzi has pushed for the increased use of biomass energy made from forest waste to replace or supplement traditional sources of energy. Renzi noted that bio-mass will not only help provide affordable energy, it would also keep manufacturing jobs in America. Congressman Renzi will then travel to Skull Valley for Coffee with the Congressman at the Skull Valley Community Hall at the Skull Elementary School. Congressman Renzi will also be traveling to Peeples Valley to meet with the Peeples Valley Fire Department & will host a Coffee with the Congressman in Congress, AZ.

On June 2nd, Congressman Renzi will be in Chino Valley for Coffee with the Congressman at the Senior Center at Town Hall (Chino Valley Civic Center).

More From The Governor

Gov. Napolitano will make the Proclamation of “Phoenix Suns Week,” at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31st.

Governor Releases Az Educator Survey Results

Today, Governor Janet Napolitano released the 1st phase of the Arizona Teacher Working Condition Survey results. Though preliminary analysis of the survey found that salary is a clear priority for educators, over all working conditions, effective leadership who make sustained efforts to address teacher concerns, & more preparation time & student time are also essential to keeping teachers in schools.

“This survey is a critical step in my goal to ensure Arizona educators are receiving the necessary tools to succeed and to create a thriving learning environment,” Governor Napolitano said.

The survey was administered by the Center for Teaching Quality (CTQ), an organization committed to improving student learning through developing teacher leadership, conducting practical research and engaging communities. Similar surveys were conducted in other states including North Carolina, Ohio & Kansas.

More than 70% of teachers and administrators in 19 districts & schools completed the Arizona Teacher Working Condition Survey. Approximately 5,200 Arizona educators participated. This is the highest response rate of any pilot with the CTQ Survey.

A full presentation of the data will be presented to the Governor & her Committee on Teacher Quality & Support in July 2006. Results will be correlated with student achievement & available in the fall following the release of school performance analysis by federal & state education agencies.

Plans are underway to conduct the survey statewide in 2007. More info regarding the survey & the preliminary results are available on the Arizona Teacher Working Conditions Survey Web site, www.aztwc.org.

Emergency Lane Restrictions on I-40

This an alert for those traveling to California this Memorial Day Weekend. Damage to 6 bridges on Interstate 40 (I-40) between Ludlow & Needles is causing the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to reduce travel to one lane in each direction until further notice.

Intermittent lane restrictions at the bridges will take place within a 17-mile stretch of the I-40 from east of Kelbaker Road to west of Essex Road. One lane in each direction will remain open to traffic.

Travelers wishing to avoid potential delays may want to use an alternate route.

Possible detour routes to California include:
* I-40 west to US 95 south to I-10 east
* I-40 west to US 95 south to SR 62 west to I-10 west
* I-40 west to I-17 south to I-10 west
* I-40 west to US 95 south to SR 62 west to SR 177 south to I-10 west
* I-40 west to SR 95 south to I-10 west

If you choose to drive on I-40 allow extra time for your trip & drive with caution in the construction area. Reduce your speed before the restriction and merge early. In addition, prepare for your trip through the desert by packing plenty of water & snacks. It is always a good idea to make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition before traveling.

For additional information, please call Caltrans Public Affairs Office at (866) 383-4631 or go to their website at www.dot.ca.gov/dist8.

Stocks & Commodities At Weeks End

Light Crude ($US per bbl.) - 71.37
Gold ($US per Troy oz.) - 651.00
Copper ($US per lb.) - 3.82
Live Cattle (cents per lb.) - 79.85
Feeder Cattle (cents per lb.) - 108.75
Phelps Dodge Corp. (PD) - 88.26
Quadra Mining LTD (QUA.TO) - 10.15
Motorola Inc. (MOT) - 21.28
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT) - 49.65
Home Depot Inc. (HD) - 38.67
Dow Jones Industrial Average Index - 11,302.00
NYSE COMPOSITE INDEX - 8,241.15
S&P 500 Index - 1,282.70
NASDAQ COMPOSITE (^IXIC) - 1,609.75

Does Your Nonprofit Need Grant Writing Help?

The Nonprofit Resource Center of Northern Arizona, NPRC, is offering a 2-day grant writing workshop in Concho on June 1st & 2nd. This workshop offers an intensive, hands-on, skill-building approach to writing & obtaining grants for nonprofits & other organizations. Call 928-527-7930 or visit www.NonprofitNAz.org for more info.

Heard Museum WEST Opens June 24th

On Saturday, June 24th, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. the Heard Museum will unveil its 2nd location in Surprise. The new location features a classroom for children's hands-on activities, tours, adult programs & continuing education. The Heard Museum West's 1st long-term exhibition will be "Our Stories." The location for the Heard Museum West is at Civic Center Plaza & Paradise Lane (east of Surprise Staduim) on 16126 N. Civic Center Plaza, in Surprise. Admission is FREE to the public during this community-wide celebration. To learn more, please call (623) 344-2200 or visit www.heard.org.

"Burn Camp Open"

The United Yavapai Firefighters, whose members are firefighters in the communities of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Mayer, & Black Canyon City are sponsoring the 12th annual "Burn Camp Open" golf tournament. This years tournament will be held on June 17th, on the Antelope Hills Golf Course, North Course. All proceeds from the tournament benefit children who have suffered debilitating burns to attend Burn Camp, "Camp Courage." To donate, or more info, or to register, call Daniel at, 928-445-5555.

Globe Public Pool Opens

The pool will open tomorrow & run until August 4th. Kids up to 8 are $ 1 per day, swimmers 8 & up are $2 per day (Non-swimming adults supervising their kids in the Baby Pool are not charged). Family Summer Pass (up 6 members of Immediate Family): $85 or $50 for a Single Summer Pass. The schedule is being finalized for Swimming Lessons from Greg Haro, & the schedule & prices will become available in the coming days. They are working with the college with a water aerobics class to begin on May 30th through July 24th, on Mondays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, between 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. For info on the classes call 425-0510. Other events are being planned through the Summer. On a sad note, due to the 4 positions being unfilled the "Kids Kamp," is a no go this year.

Globe Library News

The library will be closed tomorrow through Monday, May 29th, for the Memorial Day holiday. They will resume regular business hours on Tuesday, May 30th, at 10 a.m. For more info call 425-6111.

Glendale-Peoria Memorial Day Service

The Resthaven Park Cemetery & Sandy Coor Post 1433, Veterans of Foreign Wars are hosting a consolidated memorial service on Monday, May 29th, at 9 a.m. in The Garden of Remembrance (western section) of the Resthaven Park Cemetery. Resthaven is located at 63rd Ave & Northern (6290 West Northern Avenue).

DUI Patrol Info

The Gila Co. DUI Task Force will be conducting a DUI enforcement checkpoint/roadblock tomorrow from approx., 7:30 p.m. to approx., midnight. The location of the detail will be State Route 188 at milepost 251, by Roosevelt Lake. The Task Force is comprimised of officers from the Az. DPS, Gila CO. Sheriff's Dept., & both the Globe & Payson PD's. In addition they will have roving patrols throughout the weekend.

The Globe PD will conduct a special DUI patrol during the Memorial Day weekend with help from The Governor's Office of Highway Safety Grant. Seat belt, child restraint, speed violations, DUI, & other alcohol-related offenses will be targeted.

SR188 Weekend Traffic Alert

During this Memorial Day weekend, traffic impacts will end on this afternoon at 12 p.m. & will not resume again until Tuesday morning at 6 a.m. Normal work hours are Mon. - Fri., from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., unless noted otherwise.

Game 2 Tonight

The Suns (1-0) face the Mavs this evening at 5:30 pm (our time) on TNT. Bring your friends to the Apache Gold Casino & watch the Playoffs on a Hi-Def screen in the Cabaret.

Courses Offered At Apache Gold Training Center

The Gila Community College is offering courses at the Apache Gold Training Center as part of the summer schedule of classes. Those interested in taking courses in the area of hospitality & tourism are now able to choose from Hotel Facilities Management, Marketing, Supervision, & Accounting. The Summer sessions begin May 30th. For additional info pertaining to summer classes or workforce development opportunities call 425-8481 or log on to the Gila Community College website at www.gilaccc.org.

Quick Lake Level Check

Bartlett: 73%
San Carlos: 12%
Roosevelt Lake: 73%
Saguaro Lake(Stewart Mtn): 93%
Lake Pleasant(Waddell Dam): 94%
Lake Havasu: 91%
Canyon Lake(Mormon Flat): 94%

Free SCORE Loan Clinic

The Phoenix Chapter of the Service Corps of Retired Executives will conduct a free SCORE loan clinic from 1 to 3 p.m. on June 6th, at the Western International University, on 9215 N. Black Canyon Hwy. in Phoenix.

Eloy Chamber Luncheon

The City of Eloy's Chamber of Commerce their Noon lunch meeting will be on June 1st, at the Iron Skillet Restaurant at the Petro Stopping Center, on 5235 N. Sunland Gin Road. Joan Warren, with Central Arizona College Workforce Development, is scheduled as the featured speaker. The public is welcome to attend.

Arizona Tribal Lands Attract High-Value Visitors

According to a recent study from the Arizona Office of Tourism, tribal lands in Arizona are attracting high-quality visitors who stay longer & spend more on lodging, shopping & entertainment than Arizona visitors generally.

The study was conducted over an 18-month period by the Arizona Hospitality Research & Resource Center at N.A.U. The Survey of Visitors to Arizona’s Tribal Lands included the participation of 7 tribes & 1 tribal enterprise throughout the state & shows visitors to these areas are older, have higher incomes, stay longer & spend more than visitors to Arizona in general. The reported average annual household income was $102,000, much higher than the $72,700 average for Arizona domestic overnight visitors. Visitors shopping on tribal lands in Arizona spent an about of $198 per-party/per-day. Sightseeing, recreation & shopping were the dominant reasons for visiting, with general sightseeing accounting for more than 52% of activities. More than 54% of the visitors indicated the tribe as the trips primary destination, & nearly 60% of visitors used word-of-mouth & recommendations from friends & family when planning their trip. Overall visitor satisfaction was high, ranking 9.2 on a scale from 1 to 10 (where 10 is totally satisfied) & 98% of visitors would recommend a trip to their friends & family. Moreover, more than half of visitors (56.5 percent) were repeat travelers to tribal lands.

The study also highlighted areas of opportunity for the tribes, such as additional product development to attract families. Currently, only 11% of travel parties included children under the age of 18. Based on the low number of visitors (12.2 percent) who relied on the Internet for information, tribes may also benefit from Web sites that are geared specifically to the cultural visitor market & contain detailed visitor information.

Advertising On The Ride 94

Getting your message out is important if you own a business. With "The Ride 94," you can advertise on a station that blankets 1.8+ million people for rates that are much lower than Phoenix stations. Unlike another radio station in town (according to KQSS management they own & operate & change format from one to the other at KZZP), at KRDE we don't lie about our coverage & ratings. The best times to call the station are Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 928-402-9222 or 928-425-4800. If you prefer to send an e-mail, krde@cableone.net is the address you need. Be smart & get your message heard on "The Ride 94," KRDE 94.1 FM.

Gila Valley Family Festival

The Gila Valley Family Fest is now thru Sunday, with events that range from an antique show, a classic car show, & a talent show. Visitors can vote for their favorite car, & the people's choice award is given at 9 p.m. tonight. The car show starts at 2:30 p.m. tomorrow.

Gila Co. Memorial Day Service

The ceremonial service is at the Gila County Courthouse at 11 a.m.

ECW Debuts Again

The confirmation has come in & starting on Tuesday June 13th, at 10 p.m. ECW will makes it return on the Sci-Fi Channel.

Bullion Plaza's First Friday Program

"Bill Roten & Friends - Fiddle Music & Fun," is set for June 2nd, at 6 p.m. on the lawn at the Bullion Plaza Cultural Center & Museum in Miami. Don't forget to bring a chair or cushion. Cold water will be available so no one gets too thirsty while enjoying the evening. The event is FREE to all that wish to be entertained for the evening. The 1st Friday programs are sponsored by the Bullion Plaza Center in Miami & the Gila Co. Historical Society.

Superior Gets Grant For High-Speed Broadband

The Commerce & Economic Development Commission (CEDC) at the Az. Dept. of Commerce has approved a grant of up to $35,000 to the Town of Superior to install high-speed broadband. The project will create 300 full time jobs.

"This is an example of the value of the CEDC bringing ideas & people together,” says Arizona Department of Commerce Director Gilbert Jimenez. “Innovation and investment in infrastructure will fuel economic growth.”

"I am ecstatic that Governor Napolitano & the Arizona Department of Commerce see the need to help rural communities like Superior build necessary infrastructure to create 21st Century technology,” says Superior Mayor Michael Hing. “With this project, we can grow our business economy.”

"The town aims to build economic capacity by installing a high-speed unlicensed spectrum Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) network to support Internet connectivity for the use of local businesses & residents. Our business has suffered as a result of our inability to access reliable infrastructure,” says Rozlyn Lipsey of Superior Marble. “The inability to access high-speed internet has prevented us from offering our customers the opportunity to order our products online.”

Bill Williams, Vice President of Resolution Copper Mining says, “This issue is important to our company for 2 reasons, it will give our local based employees opportunities to access our network through high-speed access & it will enable our contractors & suppliers to work & communicate more efficiently with the company.”

Several businesses in Superior provided $1,000 matches to fund the wireless service project. The Town of Superior is investing $25,000. In addition, the town has requested a $270,000 grant from the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Business Enterprise Grant program in support of this initiative. The application will be evaluated with an anticipated award date of August/September 2006.

To maximize the economic development benefits of the broadband network, training in how to use Internet access will be provided by the town to support existing & emerging businesses.

USS Arizona Memorial Fundraising

At the State Capitol yesterday, Governor Janet Napolitano – the national chair of the Pearl Harbor Memorial Fund – led the kickoff of a grassroots effort to continue raising money necessary for the restoration of the Visitors Center at the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor. The Center is sinking into the harbor. Experts assessed the situation and determined that, after years of structural erosion & overcrowding, the Center has been damaged beyond repair. The facility will only be able to safely accommodate visitors for about 4 to 9 more years.

Replacing the Center will cost approximately $34 million. Arizona has committed to raise $3 million toward that total, as part of the nationwide campaign. So far, through the major gifts campaign, the effort has raised about half the needed amount.

Gov. Napolitano said, “The Memorial is an important part of our history here in Arizona, as well as important part of American history. Now we start our Grass Roots Campaign to gather the contributions to meet our goal. It gives the people of Arizona the opportunity to accept the challenge to remember and honor the USS Arizona, as well as the 600,000 veterans in our state.”

Those wishing to participate & contribute to the effort can find more info at http://www.pearlharbormemorial.com/.

State Transportation Board Awards Contracts

The Arizona State Transportation Board approved eight projects totaling $11.5 million at its May 19 meeting in Safford. The projects will begin in June and are scheduled for completion during the summer of 2006.

Apache County:
SR 264 Reconstruction – Work on the $634,000 project will be done by Hatch Construction & Paving, Inc. & will take place within the town of Ganado on SR 264. It will reconstruct the turnout for Hubbell Trading Post & repave & add turn 2 lanes at the Ganado Chapter House turnout.

Coconino County:
I-40 Repaving – C & E Paving & Grading, LLC was awarded the $222,000 project will repave I-40 east of the City of Williams. The work consists of replacing damaged pavement & pavement markings.

Navajo County:
SR 87 Improvements - Meadow Valley Contractors was awarded at $1.4 million contract to retrofit a bridge, extend a box culvert & pipe culvert on SR 87 one mile south of Winslow. Additional work includes replacing existing pavement markings & sign installation.

SR 277 Scour Protection – A $580,000 project to construct a reinforced concrete floor beneath the existing bridge over Cottonwood Wash on SR 277 within the Town of Snowflake was awarded to Show Low Construction.

Santa Cruz County:
SR 19B Repaving – A $2.2 million project will take place on SR 19B within the City of Nogales was awarded to Granite Construction Company. The project consists of removing the existing pavement & replacing it with new rubberized asphalt. Additional work includes replacing the existing pavement markings & signal detectors.

Yavapai County:
SR 89 Improvements - Fann Contracting, Inc. will start work on the $1.8 million project on SR 89 between Prescott & Wickenburg in June. The project consists of applying an overlay to existing pavement & the extension of 2 box culverts.

No Highway Construction Closures This Weekend

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is pleased to report that motorists will not be faced with any major construction delays this Memorial Day weekend. ADOT’s contractors will take a break for the duration of the 3-day holiday, so no work that would impede holiday travel will occur. During the Memorial Day weekend last year (2005), 848 crashes occurred statewide, resulting in 14 fatalities & 467 injuries.

To ensure a safe holiday trip, ADOT offers the following holiday driving tips:

Patience: Follow speed limits & keep a safe stopping distance from other vehicles
Click It or Ticket: Use your seatbelt & make sure your children are properly secured in seatbelts or car seats
Be Prepared: Bring plenty of drinking water & food in case of unanticipated travel delays
Don’t Drink & Drive: Arrange for designated drivers
Allow for Extra Travel Time: Expect heavier traffic Friday afternoon as people head to the Arizona high country & for the trip home on Monday. Expect traffic to be heavy on both the I-17 & State Route 87 (Beeline Highway)

For updated information about highway restrictions across Arizona, visit ADOT’s traveler information website at www.az511.com or call 5-1-1.

Jeffrey Skilling Verdict In

Skilling was convicted on 19 of the 28 counts against him, including one count of insider trading, conspiracy to commit securities & wire fraud. He was acquitted on the remaining nine counts.

1 Down...3 To Go

Last night the Suns (1-0) held off the Mavs with a score of, 121-118. Game 2 is tomorrow & starts at 5:30 pm (our time) on TNT.

Traded

Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez has been traded from the Diamondbacks to the New York Mets in exchange for righthanded relief pitcher Jorge Julio.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Ford Motor Company's Air Quality Permit No. 36617 has started their public comment period. The public comment period ends on June 24, 2006. Call Trevor Baggiore for further info at, (602) 771-2321 or e-mail: tb4@azdeq.gov. To view the public notice go to: http://www.azdeq.gov/download/fordpn.pdf. In order to view the draft permit itself visit: http://www.azdeq.gov/download/fordpermit.pdf. And, to view the drafts technical support document follow the link at: http://www.azdeq.gov/download/fordtsd.pdf.

Enron Verdict

The jury has found Ken Lay to be guilty on ALL 6 counts, including conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud. Lay could face a maximum punishment of 45 years for the combined offenses.

Phoenix Couple Reel In A Win

Diane & Wayne Jenness of Phoenix weighed 6 bass totaling 14.08 pounds to win the AllStar Bass Couples Tournament held at Lake Pleasant last Saturday. In their limit, was the event's Big Fish winner at 4.84 pounds. They walked away with checks totaling $1,800 plust 1st Place & Big Fish trophies from a prize fund of more than $7,500 in cash & merchandise. The next & final AllStar Bass Couples Tournament for the 2006 season is set for June 10th, at Roosevelt Lake. For more info, call 480-894-2775 or visit Arizona Hunter & Angler.

Legion Vows Fight

The board of directors of the nation's largest veterans organization informed American Legion Henry Barry Post of Globe, they unanimously authorized its national commander to take all "appropriate actions, with other organizations or singly, up to & including authorizing litigation," to ensure that the Veterans Disability Benefits Commission does NOT attempt to erode veterans disability benefits by offsetting them with the Social Security disability system.

Members of the National Executive Committee of The American Legion passed a resolution giving National Commander Thomas L. Bock full authority to work with the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) & other organizations to block a blatant attempt by the commission that could propose termination of veterans' disability benefits when a veteran obtains a job despite a militarily incurred disability.

The Veterans Disability Benefits Commission is considering whether Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) should or should not be included in its analysis of benefits provided under current federal laws to compensate veterans & their survivors for disability or death attributable to military service.

For more info on joing them in supporting Veterans Benefits please contact the American Legion Henry Barry Post 4, or if you have any questions call them at, 425-3405.

SR188 Weekend Traffic Alert

Don't worry, it's actually good news, during the Memorial Day weekend, traffic impacts will end on Friday afternoon at 12 p.m. & will not resume again until Tuesday morning at 6 a.m. Normal work hours are Mon. - Fri., from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., unless noted otherwise.

Game 1 Western Conference Championship

The Suns take on the Mavs for the Western Conference Championship tonight. The game starts at 5:30 p.m. PT on TNT. For an evening of sports bliss, The Apache Gold Casino will have the game on tonight, for your Suns playoff action.

Carrie Underwood Performs

Underwood will sing her latest, "Don't Forget To Remember Me," on the "American Idol" grand finale tonight.

Advertising On The Ride 94

Getting your message out is important if you own a business. With "The Ride 94," you can advertise on a station that blankets 1.8+ million people for rates that are much lower than Phoenix stations. Unlike another radio station in town (according to KQSS management they own & operate & change format from one to the other at KZZP), at KRDE we don't lie about our coverage & ratings. The best times to call the station are Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 928-402-9222 or 928-425-4800. If you prefer to send an e-mail, krde@cableone.net is the address you need. Be smart & get your message heard on "The Ride 94," KRDE 94.1 FM.

Benefit Fundraiser In Wickenburg

The benefit fundraiser is for Evelyn Denton, who was diagnosed with leukemia & has recently undergone a bone marrow transplant. This is set for Friday, June 2nd & will start at 6 p.m. at the Wickenburg Community Center. The ticket price is $35 & available from Kristi at (928-684-1336), Janet (928-684-2295), Shelly (928-684-5098) & at the Wickenburg Safeway. The Wickenburg Rotary Club will sponsor the cash bar & all proceeds will be donated back, Hors d'oeuvres & dessert will be served, & a silent auction has also been planned.

Horseshoe Tournament

The Snowy Mtn. Inn's 1st Annual Horseshoe Tournament is in Greer on June 10th. Sign-up is at 9 a.m. 100% payback = pays 3 places = 50% - 30% - 20%. Bring your own partner. Their will be novice & expert pits. The entry fee is only $15. For food, fun, & entertainment head out to this "Horseshoe Tournament" & chili cookoff (open to all). For info on the tournament or about entering the cookoff contact Casey at 602-540-1539.

Special City Of Globe Session Tonight

The Special Session is at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Building on 150 N. Pine St. in Globe.

And The Winner Is....

Caution, the following is an American Idol Spoiler. If you do not want to know the Season 5 winner then don't click on the link to the winner. However, if the suspense is so overwhelming, then by all means, click on WINNER to satisfy that urge.

Southwest Gas Has A New Chairman

LeRoy Hanneman Jr., CEO of Element Homes & former President/CEO of Del Webb Corp., has been appointed as the new chairman of Southwest Gas.

Public Meeting

On June 6th, there is a public meeting regarding, "Superfund." The Waster Quality Assurance Revolving Fund (WQARF) Payson PCE & Tonto & Cherry Community Advisory Board (CAB) Meeting is at 6 p.m. in the Payson Community Development Building at 303 East Beeline Highway, in Payson. Call Wendy at (602) 771-4410 or e-mail wv1@azdeq.gov.