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GCC Faculty Couple Receives Fulbrights

Two Glendale Community College faculty are Fulbright Scholar Grantees for the 2011-2012 academic year. The wife and husband team of Holly McKinzie Beene, human communication, and Leon Beene, history, will be posted to Eastern Europe during the spring 2012 semester.

As for the likelihood of both proposals being awarded in such a highly competitive program, both agree it was more than a surprise. 

“I was shocked,” said Holly Beene. “The proposals are so detailed and submitted months in advance, you just put them out of your mind. When we were both notified within a few weeks of each othe. We couldn’t believe it.  We had long conversations about the best course of action, but then we circled back to reinvention, and decided we could amplify the experience if we were willing to live about 150 miles apart for a few months.”

Holly McKinzie Beene, GCC Faculty Emeritus in communication and world languages, has been awarded a 2011-2012 Fulbright Scholar lecture/research grant at the Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacău, Romania, according to the United States Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.  Beene is an interculturalist whose academic specialization is organizational culture and behavior.  While in Romania, she will teach two graduate seminars in intercultural communication, one of them specifically focused on cultural communication and new media. In addition, the university department has requested that she facilitate a digital storytelling workshop and help establish an American Studies Club for students.

Leon Beene, GCC Faculty Emeritus in history, has been awarded a 2011-2012 Fulbright to teach in the American Studies Center, Moldova State University, in Chisinau, Moldova.  While his original academic specialization was Latin America, his secondary field is history of the Americas. He taught United States history at GCC from 1975-2000 and was a faculty associate at ASU West until 2009. Fall 2011, at GCC, he taught U.S. History, 1945 to the present.

In Moldova, he will teach two graduate courses, one on American Foreign Policy and the other on U.S. history in a global context. 

Beene said, “Unfortunately, even history majors in U.S. colleges and universities are well into their degree programs before they spend much time with contemporary global themes. The university has given me a lot of leeway in designing these seminars, so my intent is to approach American studies in a broader context and a narrower time-frame -- post WWII -- than they may have studied in other classes.”

The Fulbright Scholar Program, America’s flagship international educational exchange program, is sponsored by the United States Department of State, Council on the International Educational Exchange of Scholars. Since its establishment in 1946, the Fulbright Program has provided scholars, graduate students, and teachers from other countries the opportunity to observe each others' political, economic, educational and cultural institutions, to exchange ideas and to embark on joint ventures of importance to the general welfare of the world's inhabitants.

Challenge Charter School from Glendale was  the final winner 2 years ago. See the 2009 win covered here http://www.glendaledailyplanet.com/fiesta_bowl_2010.htm Please scroll down the page.

Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau 
Selects Advisory Committee

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau (GCVB) is pleased to announce its inaugural Advisory Committee.

The committee will be comprised of nine GCVB members representing various tourism-related industries in the West Valley.  The group will meet quarterly with GCVB staff to help establish bureau priorities, evaluate the effectiveness of current programs and advise staff in the development of new services.

“Forming this regional advisory group represents the next step in our evolution as the only visitor's bureau in the West Valley, and we are looking forward to working with the best of the best in the industry” said Lorraine Pino, GCVB Manager. “ The specific expertise and industry knowledge will be a valuable asset to the group.”

The committee members include:

Matt Borowski, Manager, The Spicery in Our 1895 Home

Mark  Coronado, City Manager, City of Surprise/Surprise Recreation Campus

  Jim Foss, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Phoenix Coyotes/Jobing.com Arena

  Steve Gerhart, Owner, Arizona Scenic Tours

Toni Lindner, Director of Sales and Marketing, Hilton Garden Inn Phoenix/Avondale

  Linda Moran-Whittley, Owner, Papa Ed’s Ice Cream

  Courtney Papillon, Senior Marketing Manager, Arrowhead Towne Center

Allan Tuttle, Director of Sales, Renaissance Glendale Hotel & Spa

  Trevor J.  Wilson, Marketing Director, Wet ‘n’ Wild

For more information, call 623-930-4500 or like us on facebook.com/GlendaleCVB. You can also stay in touch and up-to-date on travel tips, events and discounts at www.VisitGlendale.com  or by following @GlendaleCVB on Twitter.

About the CVB

The Glendale CVB markets the West Valley as a preferred year-round destination for visitors, conventions, meetings and major events, producing a positive economic impact and increasing leisure and business travel in the region.

Book Review - Magical Alienation

By Lesa Holstine,  Book Topics Editor

I know this sounds so implausible – fake psychics, Celtic gods and goddesses, militia,  rock stars and aliens from Area 51. But, somehow, Kris Neri makes it work perfectly in her second Samantha Brennan and Annabelle Haggerty Magical Mystery, Magical Alienation.

November 11, Veterans Day 2011

Thank you Veterans and your families 
for your service and your sacrifice.

Today at 10 a.m. at the Glendale Veterans Memorial, on the east lawn of the Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown, the Glendale Veterans Memorial Commission and three other local Veterans groups will remove the old flags from the Memorial and replace them with three new ones.  A new United States Flag, a new Arizona State Flag and a new POW/MIA Flag.  This annual ceremony is largely due to the efforts of Master Sgt. Wayne Crusinberry.

To say a simple thank you to a Veteran, means a lot and should not be overlooked or considered too small a gesture.  It also means that before you say thank you, you have to first recognize what Veterans, soldiers, sailors, nurses, doctors, have done for all of us.

For Every Drop of Blood—For Every Life Devoted Veterans Memorial
Joe Tyler
Bronze, copper, steel, sandstone and concrete
Completed: 2001

This artwork includes five welded steel trees, one for each branch of the armed services.  The intertwined limbs of each sculpted tree are symbolic of the combined efforts of the Air Force, Army, Marines, Navy and Coast Guard in the defense of the United States.  The leaves in the sculpted canopies represent the thousands of Veterans who have served, are currently serving and will serve in the Armed Forces.  In the center is an obelisk featuring a depiction of the battleship silver service pattern commissioned for the USS Arizona and actual salvaged pieces from the USS Arizona.

Joe Tyler currently lives and works in Arizona.  He has successfully completed public art projects for several Valley cities, including Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa and Phoenix.  The City of Glendale gratefully acknowledges the Glendale Veterans Memorial Association and Bob Manzetti (donator of USS Arizona salvaged pieces) for their help in the creation of the Veterans Memorial.   (Photo  and info from COG)

Happy Veteran's Day! 

 Tell a Veteran... THANKS  FOR YOUR SERVICE today!

Authors @ the Teague  -
 Author Kris Neri Brings “Magical Alienation” to the Library
Saturday, December 17

             GLENDALE, Ariz. – Award-winning local author Kris Neri will discuss and sign her latest mystery, “Magical Alienation,” during the upcoming Authors @ the Teague event at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 17 at Velma Teague Branch Library, 7010 N. 58^th Ave.  

            Fake psychic Samantha Brennan and genuine Celtic goddess/FBI Special Agent Annabelle Haggerty return for more madcap magical mayhem in this second entry in the Magical Mystery series, the sequel to “High Crimes on the Magical Plane.” Shape shifters, gods, Roswell, Area 51, rock stars, and a harmonic convergence in Sedona conjure up another deviously twisty, fast-paced, “funny, pell-mell romp of an adventure.”  (Diana Gabaldon, “New York Times” bestselling author of the Outlander series on “High Crimes on the Magical Plane”)

            Owner of The Well Red Coyote, repeatedly voted Best Bookstore in Sedona, Kris Neri teaches crime writing online for the Writers’ Program of the UCLA Extension School.  Also known for her Tracy Eaton mystery series, she is a two-time winner of the Derringer Award as well as a Pushcart Prize, Agatha, Anthony, Macavity, and Lefty Award nominee.  For more information, see her website at http://www.krisneri.com.

The program is free.  Books will be available for purchase and signing.  For more information, please call 623-930-3439.

US Airways Partners with Challenger Space Center Arizona

Contribution Will Support STEM Education and Public Space Simulation Programs

Photo:  The International Space Station laboratory, part of the spaceflight mission simulator
at Challenger Space Center Arizona.  Photo Credit:  Challenger Space Center Arizona

                October 31, 2011, Peoria AZ –   Challenger Space Center Arizona , located in Peoria , is pleased to announce a new partnership with US Airways that supports programming at the Center through a generous contribution of $15,000.  The US Airways grant will help support the Center’s Public Simulated Space Missions and the Field Trip Assistance Fund.

                “This is a stellar partnership with US Airways because the students and the general public who experience our space mission programs and other hands-on workshops can actually visualize themselves being a pilot, a navigator, a computer specialist, or even an air traffic controller,” said Kari Sliva, Executive Director of Challenger Space Center Arizona.  “In our unique simulator, they work as a team to solve problems and accomplish specific goals such as flying a spacecraft and launching a probe while having fun with their classmates.  We are grateful to US Airways for recognizing not only our STEM education and public museum offerings but for supporting teachers across the Valley that know the positive impact these STEM programs have on students at a time when education funds are scarce.”

Challenger Space Center ’s public simulated space missions give families, friends and teams of coworkers an opportunity to participate in an exciting space-based simulation to accomplish a mission in outer space, playing the roles of astronauts and mission control team members.  The Space Center ’s Flight Deck features over $1 million in technology, including a Mission Control room designed after Johnson Space Center , a mockup of a room onboard the International Space Station, and an Earth-Space Transit Module that transports crewmembers into space through a realistic launch sequence. 

Missions are designed to encourage communication, leadership and problem-solving skills, while offering members of the public a chance to have fun and feel like part of a successful team.  When the mission is at full throttle, there is a flurry of messages between Mission Control and the Space Station heard over loud speakers.  Electronic messages are sent back and forth.  At any moment, emergency alarms and flashing lights may signal hazardous conditions for the astronauts that need to be addressed.  Meanwhile, everyone must continue working toward to ensure that the mission's goal is accomplished.

The “Rendezvous with a Comet” mission flies on weekends year-round, with the third weekend of each month offering the “Voyage to Mars” mission simulation.  Mission times are Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. and Sunday at 1:00pm.  Each mission accommodates teens, adults, seniors, and children 5^th grade and above; 3^rd and 4^th grade students may participate with a ticketed adult.  Special holiday matinee missions will be available on Tuesday, December 27 and January 3 at 1:30 p.m. for “Voyage to Mars,” and Thursday, December 29 and January 5 at 1:30pm for “Rendezvous with a Comet.”   Reservations are required and boarding passes may be purchased online or by calling 623-322-2001.  Curriculum-based simulated space missions for students are available Monday through Friday and may be scheduled by calling 623-322-2020.

The Challenger Space Center ’s STEM Field Trip Assistance Fund helps economically disadvantaged students attend science workshops and simulated space missions at a significantly reduced fee.  Teachers interested in applying to this fund may call 623-322-2020 to request a Field Trip Assistance form or may download an application at http://www.azchallenger.org/educate/educators/field-trip-assistance. Hands-on, space-themed workshops are available for students from pre-kindergarten through middle school, while simulated space missions are available for students in grades 4-12.

Corporations wishing to learn more about foundational giving, donations, sponsorship opportunities and various naming rights at Challenger Space Center may call the Development Office at 623-322-2006.

#  #  #

About Challenger Space Center Arizona

Challenger Space Center Arizona is a space and science museum, STEM education provider, and public charitable institution in its 12^th year of nonprofit service to the valley and state. More than 50,000 people visit the Center annually, including 30,000 students. Regular admission to the Center is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (55+) and military, $5 for students (4-18) and free for children ages 3 and under and members. Challenger Center is open from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. seven days a week. For more information, visit www.azchallenger.org or call 623-322-2001.

# # #

Additional Upcoming Programs & Events at Challenger:

NEW!  NASA’s “Exploration Experience” Coming to Challenger Space Center in November:  NASA’s Exploration Experience is an interactive traveling exhibit that takes visitors on a visual journey through the past, present and future of space exploration.  Visitors will learn how NASA technologies improve life on Earth, will see how tomorrow’s explorers will live and work in space, and will have an opportunity to touch a real moon rock and take a photo in a space suit.  NASA’s Exploration Experience will be at Challenger Space Center Arizona November 4-6 and has no admission charge.  More details to follow.   

NEW!  Family STAR Nights:  Challenger Space Center is hosting an entertaining and interactive astronomy night that is fun for the whole family.  The doors open at 6 p.m. for fun hands-on activities, a simulated space launch, and our new “Scout Corner.”  At 7:30 p.m. professional astronomer Tony LaConte gives an amazing interactive slide presentation on constellations, planets, and upcoming sky events with outdoor stargazing, weather-permitting.  Please call ahead to reserve Scout Activity Packets, 623-322-2001.  The fee is $7 per person with children 3 and under free; 25% discount for Challenger Members.  Upcoming Family STAR Nights are November 5 and December 3. 

NEW!  Holiday Matinee Simulated Space Missions:  Just $19.50 per person (regularly $22.50) for these special holiday break missions offering space-themed family fun.  Fly a “Voyage to Mars” on Tuesday, December 27 or January 3 at 1:30 p.m.; “Rendezvous with a Comet” on Thursday, December 29 or January 5 at 1:30 p.m.  Prepaid registration is required; call 623-322-2001 or visit www.azchallenger.org for more information and online registration. 

NEW!  Two-day Space ‘N’ Sports Fest:  December 28–29, 2011, more details coming soon.  Festival will include the following events:  December 28, 5-9 p.m. - An Evening with the Crew of Space Shuttle Mission STS-131; meet an astronaut and learn what they accomplished on their mission.  December 29, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. - Honeywell Fiesta Bowl Aerospace Challenge Finals.  Dec. 29, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. - Space ‘N’ Sports Fest.

Smithsonian Institution Exhibit, “In Plane View”:  An exhibition of 56 large-format photographs by Carolyn Russo, showcases the aesthetic quality of some of the National Air and Space Museum ’s iconic aircraft. The exhibit will be on display Sept. 2, 2011 through Nov. 28, 2011 at Challenger Space Center AZ.  The exhibit is free with paid general admission to the Center. Special thanks to the City of Peoria and SRP for their support of this exhibit.

Military Personnel Free Admission During “In Plane View”:  The Center will offer active duty military personnel complimentary admission for the duration of the “In Plane View” exhibit. Military personnel may show a military ID card to gain complimentary admission from Sept. 2 – Nov. 28, 2011.

Expanded Hours: Challenger Space Center is now open to the public seven days a week 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; the Center was previously closed on Sundays. The 10 a.m. opening time for the public will not affect school field trips and certain special programs which sometimes begin prior to 10 a.m. during the week.

SpaceTots:  This exciting introduction to space and science is designed specifically for ages 3-6 with a parent or guardian and teaches children about our planet, solar system, and what it takes to be an astronaut.  Fee is $20 per child/parent pair for non-members, $15 per child/parent pair for members, and $5 for each additional child.  Upcoming dates and topics are:  Monday/Tuesday, Nov 21/22 (same program each day) 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.:  Stars and Constellations; Monday/Tuesday, Dec 19/20 9:30am-11:30 a.m.:  All About Astronauts. Prepaid reservations are required; call 623-322-2001 to register.

Grandparents’ Day: The second Saturday of each month is Grandparents’ Day at Challenger Space Center . The general admission fee is half-price for grandparents escorting a grandchild and there will be complimentary coffee in the Cosmic Café on Grandparents’ Day. Upcoming dates are Saturday, October 8, and Saturday, November 12. This promotion runs September – May.

Find a Piece of Vesta: Visitors to the Center are invited to locate a genuine piece of the giant asteroid Vesta somewhere in the Center. Vesta is the second-largest asteroid in our solar system and is about the length of Arizona . It is currently being orbited by NASA’s “Dawn” Spacecraft, which is sending back pictures and scientific data of this remarkable solar system object in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.

Monthly StarLab Planetarium:  The Giant StarLab Planetarium presents a 40-minute shows at 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. inside Challenger Space Center on select weekend days. Upcoming appearance dates are Saturday, November 12; Sunday, November 20; Saturday, December 10; and Sunday, December 18.  Inside the dome, visitors are transported into a night sky environment perfect for learning about upcoming sky events, the stars, the moon, constellations, planets, deep space objects, celestial coordinates, the seasons, multicultural folklore, and mythology. The fee for the StarLab Planetarium is $4 per person plus the cost of general admission, with a 25% discount for Challenger members. Please call ahead to reserve Scout Activity Packets for your group, 623-322-2001.

An Astronaut’s Life: Articles Flown in Space:  This Smithsonian Institution exhibit featuring 23 items on loan from the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., 19 of which have flown in space on Gemini 8, Skylab 2, and several STS missions. The artifacts tell the story of how astronauts live in space. Visitors will see a model of the complete, two-astronaut Gemini spacecraft as it appeared in orbit, a Mercury capsule hatch, a procedures trainer form-fitting couch, and a TV camera similar to the one used to transmit images of astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on Apollo 11 and record their activities (the original camera is still on the moon). Also included are items on loan from Former NASA Space Shuttle Astronaut William Gregory including personal items which flew with him on STS-67 Endeavour March 2-18, 1995, Gregory’s NASA jet flight suit, helmet, oxygen mask and boots he wore as a T-38 test pilot Free with paid admission to the Center.

My Solar System:  My Solar System is an exiting exhibit where kids of all ages jump up and catch or “hug” a planet. Using motion detection technology, kids capture a planet and a fun fact about that planet is laser-beamed onto the wall. Made possible by a grant from the Tohono O’odham Nation. Free with paid admission to the Center.

Saturday Simulated Space Missions:  During space missions, team members take part in a daring trek of exploration inside a simulator of Mission Control and the International Space Station.

“Rendezvous with a Comet” (every first, second, fourth and last Saturday) - Become a crewmember on a 2-hour space mission! Once again Comet Encke will travel close to the Sun and Earth. This time, human space travelers, as well as space probes, will undertake scientific missions to the great comet. Team members in both the Spacecraft and Mission Control must work together to rendezvous with the comet's tail, and successfully launch a scientific probe. Along the way, team members will also encounter many important tasks that need to be performed.

“Voyage to Mars” (every third Saturday) - The time frame of this mission is sometime in the not-too-distant future, when humans have established a permanent base on Mars. Crew members will serve as the first crew on Mars and the relief crew en route to the planet. While on the Martian surface, the team will collect and analyze a great number of planetary samples and data. This information is vital to scientists for a better understanding of the planet Mars. Crew members will also gain an appreciation for the "luxuries" of planet Earth such as air, water and food as compared to a barren planet such as Mars.

Prepaid Reservations are required for all missions by calling the Center at 623-322-2001. Simulated space missions are not suitable for 2nd grade and under. Students in 3rd and 4th grade must be partnered with ticketed adult.

Go to www.azchallenger.org for more information on visiting Challenger Space Center Arizona

Cronkite School Partners With Chyron to Bring 
State-of-the-Art Graphics to Newsroom

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Nov. 2, 2011) - Arizona State University is partnering with Chyron, a pioneer of innovative digital broadcast graphics products and services, to bring a new graphics management system to the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

The Long Island-based company is donating to the school the cloud-based Axis World Graphics and CAMIO graphics management systems. The technology will give Cronkite students access to the industry’s most advanced tools for news graphics creation and delivery, better preparing them for their digital media careers.

The Cronkite News Service newsroom will be named the Chyron Media Center at a Nov. 2 ceremony.

"Chyron's investment will help ensure that future journalists and media leaders learn with the very best, state-of-the-art equipment and graphics software available to the industry, building a pipeline of professionals who know the power and value of Chyron technology," said Cronkite Dean Christopher Callahan. "We are absolutely delighted about our partnership with Chyron."

Axis World Graphics simplifies, streamlines and facilitates the graphics creation process, enabling artists, reporters, production assistants and news producers to create broadcast-quality graphics.

CAMIO is a news graphics management solution that gives users control over the look and delivery of newsroom graphics.

“Our students’ ability to get experience on such cutting-edge technology helps give them a strong leg up in today's competitive job environment,” said Mark Lodato, assistant dean and news director at the Cronkite School. “This is exactly the sort of workflow you'll find in newsrooms today, which means our students will be well-prepared to enter the workforce.”

The Cronkite School is a nationally recognized professional school that prepares students for careers as multimedia journalists, including roles as reporters, editors, producers, correspondents, anchors, media managers and public relations specialists. The school has the best record over the past six years in the Hearst Journalism Awards competition, the Pulitzers of college journalism.

“The Cronkite School is a leader in developing high-caliber media and communications specialists, and we are pleased that the new Chyron Media Center will support the school as it continues this fine tradition of excellence,” said Chyron President and CEO Michael Wellesley-Wesley.

Glendale Main Library and Arizona Broadway
 Theatre Form a Winning Partnership

GLENDALE, Ariz. - Making popular children’s books come to life is part of the magic of theater. So, it’s no wonder that when the Arizona Broadway Theatre brought their performances to the Glendale Main Library a winning team was formed. On October 14, the Main Library was honored with a “Blazing Star” award at the theater’s annual “Take a Bow!” awards ceremony.

            The “Blazing Star” award focuses on organizations that have developed a positive community partnership with the theatre. Elly Reidy, library assistant III, accepted the award on behalf of the library.

Twice a year, The Arizona Broadway Theatre, along with the Glendale Main Library and Glendale Arts Commission, presents a production at the library from their Theatre for Young Audience program. The goal of this program is to instill creativity and imagination in children through professional theatrical performances.

 “This community partnership has given many children an opportunity to see live theater, fully-staged and professionally done,” said Reidy.” We are all winners with this program.” 

On November 17, at 4 p.m., The Arizona Broadway Theatre will present the C.S. Lewis’ classic, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” in the Glendale Main Library auditorium. The following week, on November 21 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m., children are invited to create a “Lion, Witch and Wardrobe” themed art project.  And in April 2012, the theatre will be back for a play starring everyone’s favorite mouse: “The Adventures of Stuart Little.” All programs and activities are free.

For more information about events at the Glendale Main Library call 623-930-3530 or visit the library website at www.glendaleaz.com/library.

Glendale Police Seek Help
 Finding Missing Child  

         GLENDALE, Ariz. –  Officers responded to a call of a missing child at an apartment complex in the area of 6800 N. 45^th Avenue.   A five year old female, Jhessye Shochley, had wandered away from siblings at her residence a little before 5:00 pm, possibly exiting out the front door.  When the mother arrived home and found her child missing, she immediately called police for assistance.

         At this time, there are currently no suspicious circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance.

         Jhessye is a black female, approximately 3 feet 5 inches tall, 55 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Jhessye has long hair with a ponytail. Jhessye was last seen wearing a solid white t-shirt and jeans.

Glendale Daily Planet's photographer/reporter Bette Sharpe is the 
first place award recipient for 'BEST FEATURE PHOTOGRAPH'

 OBITUARY

Knopf, Claudia T.  (Terry)

64,  passed away peacefully on October 5^th, 2011, in her home in Phoenix, AZ surrounded by family.  Terry was born in Sioux City Iowa, on September 29^th 1947 to George and Virginia Allen.  The family moved to Phoenix in 1960.

She is survived by Chuck Barnes, her soul-mate and significant other for the past 25 years; Mother, Virginia Marsh, Glendale, AZ;  Brother, Dennis Allen (wife, Paula and children, Erika, Ally & Mathew of Peoria, AZ & son Trevor of Queen Creek);  Brother, Joel Allen (wife, Janice & daughter, Dana of Germantown, WI);  Sister, Paula McIntyre (husband Mike, daughter, Jenny  &  son Eric of  Phoenix);  Sister, Kimberly Elliott (daughter, Jessica of Phoenix & son, Ryan of Rochester, WA);  and Brother, Aaron Allen (wife, Francie of Las Vegas, NV).  Perhaps because she was the oldest and did a lot of baby sitting, she was always thoroughly devoted to her siblings.  She was preceded in death by her father, George Allen.

Terry worked all of her adult life as a waitress or manager in various restaurants in the Phoenix area and personified the description of expert of her craft.  She had a knack for remembering what a customer had for breakfast or lunch even when she had not seen that person for a year.   She realized a life-long dream when she was able to open her own restaurant in a quaint old house in the Historic Catlin Court District in downtown Glendale which she operated for 7 years before her health began to fail.  The restaurant, called Aunt Pittypat’s Kitchen attracted locals and  winter visitors from all over the country because of it’s name and visual references to the movie, Gone with the Wind not to mention the wonderful food.  She was very good at creating an atmosphere reminiscent of going to Grandma’s house for dinner.  Oftentimes she would  mix her breakfast biscuits right in the midst of customers in one of the dining rooms near the kitchen.  Terry was an avid reader and loved to attend plays and concerts around the valley and in other states.  She and Chuck also loved to visit the many Bed and Breakfast Inns in Northern and Southern California.

Memorial services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, October 22^nd, at Greer-Wilson Chapel, 5921 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 East Flower St., Phoenix, AZ  85014

Aunt Pittypat's Kitchen Catlin Court

    
Photos by Ed Sharpe

    
Frame Pulls from Destination Glendale by Glendale 11

 
Frame Pulls from Destination Glendale by Glendale 11

Frame Pulls from Destination Glendale by Glendale 11

GLENDALE’S YEAR IN REVIEW

HIGHLIGHTS KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – As 2011 comes to a close, the many accomplishments of Glendale city staff were recently touted at the Glendale City Council retreat.  The list of nearly 90 accomplishments are tied to each of the strategic goals set by the city council: one community that is fiscally sound, one community with strong neighborhoods, one community committed to public safety, one community with quality economic development, one community with a vibrant city center, one community with an active partnership with Luke Air Force Base and one community with high-quality services for citizens. 

A detailed list of the accomplishments presented to the city council follows this press release.  Specific highlights for the year include the following:

Economic Development Successes

Three city departments, economic development, planning and building safety, worked collectively to continue to fulfill the vision for continued economic development in the Centerline District.  Two 2011 projects included the historic Beet Sugar Factory and the Gaslight Inn.  The Beet Sugar Factory was purchased privately and is being renovated to relocate a distillery factory with a tasting room, while preserving the original red-brick historic features of the structure. New owners renovated and opened the Glendale Gaslight Inn, which includes a bed and breakfast, wine bar, steakhouse and coffee shop, at the 1926-era hotel.

Renovation of the Sahuaro Ranch Sports Complex

Improvements to the complex included new lighting,turf replacement, a water-saving irrigation system, drainage enhancements, spectator shade, ADA accessibility and pedestrian connectivity. This project also received the Grand Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies in Arizona.

Smart Policing Initiative Receives Continued Funding

The Glendale Police Department was one of only two agencies in the U.S. to receive a second round of funding in the amount of $237,451 as a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs.  The grantwill continue another two years of Glendale's Smart Policing Initiative, which was created to fight crime through the use of problem-oriented policing.

Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau Celebrates First Year Anniversary

After a year of record-breaking media exposure and more than 15,000 walk-in visitors to the Glendale Visitor Center, the Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) celebrated its first anniversary.  The Glendale CVB markets the West Valley as a preferred year-round destination for visitors,conventions, meetings and major events, producing a positive economic impact and increasing leisure and business travel in the region. Highlights from the first year included a 6.2 percent increase in occupancy rates of West Valley area hotels and helping to generate the $354 million Valley-wide economic impact from the BCS Championship, Tostitos Fiesta Bowl and Insight Bowl. 

Glendale’s Festivals Positively Impact the Local Economy

A new International Festival and Events Association (IFEA) economic impact study showed the positive impact Glendale’s festivals have by generating spending in shops, restaurants and hotels. Conducted on site during the 2010 Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekend and the 2011 Chocolate Affaire, the study showed the economic impact to thecity for both of these festivals is $3.1 million annually. IFEA is the largest professional event association in the world.

For more information about Glendale’s accomplishments in 2011, visit www.glendaleaz.com.

CITY RECEIVES FINAL APPROVAL FOR REDISTRICTING MAP

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – The city of Glendale has received notice from the United States Department of Justice, Civil Division, that the submitted redistricting map has been approved.

         Glendale was required by City Charter and Arizona Revised Statute to reallocate the population among the six council districts based on the 2010 Census so each district would be of approximately equal population.  The city instituted an aggressive outreach program including notices being sent to all residents, meetings in each council district as well as utilizing a hotline for residents, an online form to allow for comments about the maps, severaltelevision interviews explaining the subject on the city’s TV station and the city’s YouTube channel and newspaper articles.  Information on the process was provided in English and Spanish.  Residents participated by attending meetings and submitting their own maps and comments. 

         The new redistricting map becomes effective immediately and will be used in the next city election scheduled to take place on Aug. 28, 2012.  City documents and webpages will be updated over the next several weeks to reflect the approved changes.

         Anyone with questions about which district they reside in may contact the City Clerk Department at (623) 930-2252 extension #1. 

Keep Those New Year’s Resolutions

With Help From Glendale Public Library

GLENDALE, Ariz. – New Year’s resolutions are as easy to break as they are to make, but the Glendale Public Library has an abundance of materials, programs and special events to keep those good intentions on track all throughout the year.           

            Some of the most common resolutions and Glendale Library’s solutions for January and February include:

            Get Healthy

            Visit any Glendale Public Library and check out the selection of books and DVDs on weight loss, exercise, quitting smoking, and living a more stress-free lifestyle. The Foothills Branch Library, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue is also offering the following free lecture:

            The Mind and the Mouth: Dental Patients and Mental Illness - Tuesday, February 21, 6:30 p.m., Roadrunner Room. Presented by Ruchi Bhargava, Ph.D. of Midwestern University. Many common dental symptoms can be a result of mental disorders. Explore ways that phobias, bipolar syndrome, eating disorders, and other mental illnesses can affect your teeth and mouth. For more information call 623-930-3868.

Learn Something New

            The Glendale Public Library is filled with mind expanding books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, and electronic materials. In addition, informational lectures and workshops include:

            Let’s Talk English - Wednesdays, January 11, 18 and 25. February 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. 1:30 p.m., Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown Street, Large Meeting Room. Practice your English by discussing topics common to everyday life in America. For more information call 623-931-4276 or 623-930-3570.

            Socrates Café: A Philosophical Discussion Group – Saturdays, January 14 and February 11, 2:00 p.m. Glendale Main Library, Small Meeting Room. Gather with people from different backgrounds and beliefs to exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences. For more information call 623-930-3573.

            The Big Read: A Film Viewing and Discussion of The Great Gatsby – Saturday, January 14, 1:00 p.m., Glendale Main Library, Auditorium. Join film scholar Jeannie Berg to watch and discuss the 1974 version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. 3 hours. Call 623-930-3573 for more information.

            Biomechanics and Botticelli: The Intersection of Classical Art and Modern Medicine - Tuesday, January 17, 6:30 p.m., Foothills Branch Library, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue, Roadrunner Room. Kristinn Heinrichs, Ph.D., PT, ATC, of Midwestern University explores the common thread of the Italian Renaissance to the study of human movement and anatomy from the perspective of an artist, athlete, coach and sports medicine clinician.

            Travel Photography: Tips and Techniques, Featuring Scandinavia and the Baltic – Wednesday, January 25, 6:30 p.m. Foothills Branch Library, Roadrunner Room. Professional photographer Richard Maack will provide tips for making your travel photographs the best they can be.

            Authors @ The Teague: Authors discuss and sign their books at the Velma Teague Library, 7010 N. 58^th Avenue. Books are available for purchase and signing. For more information call 623-930-3431. Saturday, February 18, 2:00 p.m. Beth Aldrich, author of the book Real Moms Love to Eat is a certified Healthy Lifestyle-Green Living Expert and former producer of a PBS TV series.

            Wednesday, February 22, 2:00 p.m. Hilary Davidson, author of The Next One to Fall is also the author of the Fodor’s New York and Toronto travel books.

            Enjoy Life More

            Music can be both calming and invigorating, and The Glendale Public Library has a line-up to bring joy and fun for all ages.  Music programming at the Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown Street, includes:

            16^th Annual Arizona Songwriters Gathering - Saturday, January 21, 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. This day-long event that features a concert by Lewis Storey, live music performances on two stages throughout the day, song critique sessions, workshops and lectures on crafting songs, getting songs into film and TV, music technology and more.

            Uvon Brooks Blues and Jazz Review - Thursday, January 26, 6:30 p.m. Auditorium. In celebration of The Big Read, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Uvon Brooks and her band “The Blues Nights” will present a high energy show that weaves music, catchy phrases and historical vignettes with Jazz age songs.

            An Evening with Marshall Trimble - Thursday, February 23, 6:30 p.m. Auditorium. In celebration of the State’s Centennial, Marshall Trimble, considered the “dean of Arizona historians,” will lecture and perform western folk music and stories.

            The Main Library Coffeehouse, 6:30 p.m., Auditorium. Thursday, January 19: Tom Connor (fingerstyle guitar) and Mike Hummel (folk rock). Thursday, February 16: In celebration of the State Centennial, Arizona’s Culture Keepers Dean Cook, Sue Harris and Dee ‘Buckshot Dot’ Johnson will play Arizona songs round robin style

            The Main Library Acoustic Jam, Wednesdays, January 25 and February 29, 6:00 p.m., Large Meeting Room. Bring your own acoustic instrument and play round-robin style. Audience welcome.

Musical programming at the Foothills Branch Library, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue, includes:

            Dance Instruction: Foxtrot and Swing - Wednesday, January 11, 6:30 p.m., Roadrunner Room. Join dance instructor Betty Jo Gregolynskyj to learn and practice the basics of two fabulous Gatsby-era dances. Space is limited. To register call 623-930-3844 (registering in pairs is recommended.)

            Estun-Bah: Native American Flute - Wednesday, February 22, 6:30 p.m., Roadrunner Room. A soothing journey of love songs and enchanting musical landscapes, featuring the gentle melodies of the Apache cane flute, accompanied by the elegant touch of acoustic guitar.

            The Foothills Library Coffeehouse, 6:30 p.m., Roadrunner Room. Wednesday, January 4: Karmann Powell (folk, country and gospel) and Desert City Ramblers (country and folk). Wednesday, February 1: Grits ‘n’ Roses (bluegrass)

            The Foothills Library Acoustic Jam, Tuesdays, January 10 and February 14, 6:00 p.m., Roadrunner Room. Bring your own acoustic instrument and play round-robin style. Audience welcome.

            For information on music programs at the Glendale Main Library call 623-930-3573. For information at the Foothills Branch Library call 623-930-3844.

            Glendale Libraries can help with even more of the most common New Year’s resolutions. 

            Brush up on Job Skills, rewrite your resume, and learn about applying for jobs in today’s market by attending the many job searching labs and workshops at all three locations.

            Spend More Time with Family by attending story times and craft workshops tailored to specific ages at all three locations.

            Read More and share with other readers by joining one of the library’s eight book discussion groups with themes including literary fiction, mystery and Arizona history. Or learn how to use an eReader by attending instructional workshops at all three locations.

            Help Others by volunteering. Pick up an application at any library location or print an application from www.glendaleaz.com/library.

             Save Money. Check out books and DVDs instead of buying or renting. And all of the programs at Glendale Public Libraries are free.

University of Phoenix and NBC News announced that 250 middle and high schools in the 
Phoenix area will receive licensed subscriptions to the award-winning “NBC Learn K-12.” 

University of Phoenix and NBC News Donate NBC Learn Subscriptions to 250 Phoenix-area Schools

To promote the use of technology in the classroom, the gift grants access to the award-winning “NBC Learn K-12” collection for two years

PHOENIX, Dec. 12, 2011 – University of Phoenix announced yesterday that the company is partnering with NBC News to donate licensed subscriptions to the award-winning “NBC Learn K-12” to 250 middle and high schools in the Phoenix area. The gift grants schools two years’ worth of access to the rich collection of NBC News videos, primary source documents, images, and resources specifically designed for use in the K-12 classroom.  The donation was received by State Superintendent of Education, John Huppenthal in a special ceremony during the Arizona Cardinals home game against the San Francisco 49ers on December 11, 2011.

Phoenix is the fourth city to receive this type of donation from NBC News and University of Phoenix. In Chicago, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia, an additional 250 schools in each city are already implementing the resource into their classrooms for the 2011-2012 school year.

NBC Learn provides access to over 12,000 NBC News archival video resources that help bring subjects to life in the classroom. Each video is mapped to curriculum, state standards, and the Common Core, and the database is updated with current events on a daily basis. A subscription to NBC Learn allows all teachers, students, and their parents to access the resource at school and at home with 24-hour customer support. As part of the donation to Phoenix-area schools, NBC Learn also provides product and professional development training for teachers and administrators.

“It’s important that we empower our community educators with the resources and knowledge to improve the quality of education in our schools,” said Dr. William Pepicello, president of University of Phoenix. “Toward this goal, I’m excited to partner with NBC News to grant NBC Learn licenses to Phoenix-area schools, which is proven to be a powerful tool for the learning process.”  

“In the face of budget cuts, and challenges to innovate around student engagement in the classroom, NBC Learn is creating strategic partnerships that enable its award-winning digital learning content to be used free of charge,” said NBC News President Steve Capus. “We are excited to share the resources of NBC Learn with Phoenix-area schools. We believe that by incorporating high-quality video reports and content into the classroom, students can get excited and engaged with their course subjects in new ways. “

In addition to its subscription resources, NBC Learn also produces original video collections that are made available for free on NBCLearn.com. These include the Emmy Award-winning “Science of NFL Football,” and “Science of the Winter Olympic Games” collections, as well as “Changing Planet” and “Chemistry Now.”

For more information about NBC Learn, visit http://www.nbclearn.com or check us out on Facebook: facebook.com/nbclearn.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.

About NBC Learn

NBC Learn is the educational arm of NBC News dedicated to providing resources for students, teachers, and lifelong learners. The online resources NBC Learn has created for the education community leverages nearly 80 years of historic news coverage, documentary materials, and current news broadcasts. "NBC LEARN K-12" gives students and teachers access to thousands of video clips from the NBC News archives, including great historic moments – from the Great Depression to the Space Race to the latest political coverage. NBC Learn also offers primary source materials, lesson plans and classroom planning resources, and additional text and image resources from our content partners.

Taking Precautions Around the Home Can Keep Your Holidays Jolly

Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center offers advice to avoid accidental poisonings

PHOENIX (December 9, 2011) – The holiday season typically is a time for fun and creating happy family memories.  It can also bring the potential for accidental poisonings. The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center offers some advice to keep the kids and pets safe during the festivities.  If there are questions of whether something is dangerous, or if a poisoning has actually occurred, call the Banner Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222.  The center is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Poinsettias

The sap of the poinsettia is bitter and unpleasant, but the plant is not deadly.  Poinsettias are listed as a toxic plant because they will cause irritation in the mouth if ingested and possibly vomiting. This is especially true with pets as they attempt to erase the bad taste from their mouths.

Holly and mistletoe

Both holly and mistletoe are very toxic if ingested. Berries of both plants can cause severe stomach illness or other problems. Real berries on both holly and mistletoe are often replaced with artificial berries that could pose a choking hazard if swallowed by a child.

Snow Sprays

Many snow sprays contain acetone or methylene chloride. This solvent can be harmful when inhaled. Briefly inhaling the spray in a small, poorly ventilated room may result in nausea, lightheadedness and headache. Longer or more concentrated exposures can be more serious. Carefully follow container directions. Be sure to have the room well ventilated when you spray. Once dry, the snow particles are non-toxic.

Angel Hair

Angel hair is finely spun glass, which can be irritating to the skin, eyes, and the throat if swallowed. Wear gloves to avoid eye and skin irritation while decorating.

Bubble Lights

Bubble lights contain a small amount of methylene chloride, which is also found in paint removers.  Nibbling on an intact light or one "opened" light may cause mild skin or mouth irritation only.

Disc Batteries

These flat-shaped, coin-like batteries are commonly used in games, watches, cameras, hearing aids and calculators. They may, if swallowed, stick in the throat or stomach, causing serious burns as the chemical leaks out. Also, children may insert these small objects into their ears or nose.

Medicines

Parents, grandparents and babysitters should be extra cautious during the holidays. Visitors often leave medicines on a nightstand or in the bathroom, making them easily accessible to children. Medications given to seniors often do not have child-resistant closures, allowing children to open them with very little difficulty. Also, purses of visitors may contain medicines and other potentially dangerous items.  The homes of friends and relatives may not be poison-proof, particularly if children do not usually live there.

Other holiday hazards to children and pets

• Lamp oils can cause severe damage to the stomach linings
• Some aromatic oils can cause a deadly form of pneumonia in the lungs or seizures if swallowed.
• Children can find alcohol leftover from holiday parties, often in drink glasses that haven't been cleaned or in egg nog
• Decorations, while not toxic, may present a choking hazard.

If a poisoning has occurred, call the Banner Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222 and follow the nurse's instructions.

Pets

During the busy holiday season, we often forget about our pets. Dogs are especially prone to poisoning as they can and often DO eat almost anything. Have the phone number of your veterinarian and the emergency vet number posted. Keep the poison center number handy. If you suspect a pet poisoning, do not wait to call. Prompt attention may make a crucial difference in your pet's health.  To make your dog vomit at home (under the direction of a health professional), use 3% household hydrogen peroxide. Have a bottle on hand and always call the poison center or your vet before using it.

About Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center

Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has been providing medical care to Arizona and the Southwest since 1911. Banner Good Samaritan is owned and operated by Phoenix-based Banner Health, a non-profit organization. The hospital was named to the 2011-’12 U.S.News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” list for Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Geriatrics and Gynecology. Banner Good Samaritan has been recognized as a Magnet™ facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest honor a hospital can earn for its nursing care and practices, and has been named one of the Best Places to Work in the Valley by The Phoenix Business Journal and BestCompaniesAZ in 2007 and 2008 and one of the “Top 100 Hospitals to Work For” by Nursing Professionals magazine.

The Big Read Revisits the Roaring ‘20s

With “The Great Gatsby”

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Big Read returns in January with F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. Glendale Public Library is taking part in the valley-wide event with special programming including music, dance, crafts, book discussions and a viewing of the 1974 film version of the classic novel.

            One of the most popular classics in modern American fiction, The Great Gatsby is considered by many to be the consummate “great American novel.” Originally published in 1925, Fitzgerald’s masterpiece tells the story of Jay Gatsby’s desperate quest to win back his first love. The universally human themes of the importance of honesty, the temptations of wealth and the struggle to escape the past have touched generations of readers and writers. 

            The Big Read is presented locally by the West Valley Arts Council in partnership with the Maricopa County Library District. It is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts with the Institute of Museum and Library Services and Arts Midwest. West Valley Arts Council also received funding from the Glendale Arts Commission Performing Arts Partnership Program, the Arizona Humanities Council, the Kiwanis Club of Litchfield Park, the Constance W. McMillin Trust, Amazon.com and the City of Glendale to carry out this project. The Big Read runs from January 6-31.

Thanks to the local sponsorship, multiple copies of the book will be available for Glendale library card holders and library reading groups to check out.

The Great Gatsby events for adults at the Glendale Public Libraries include: 

·        Wednesday, January 4, 10:00 a.m., Foothills Branch Library Hummingbird Room, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue. Gentle Reads Book Discussion Group. Join in on the lively and enlightening discussion of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. For more information call 623-930-3844.

·        Monday, January 9, 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Main Library Large Meeting Room, 5959 W. Brown Street. Real to Reel Book Discussion. Join in on a discussion of a book made into a movie. Read the book; see the movie or do both. This month, in conjunction with The Big Read, the group will be discussing F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. For more information call 623-930-3555.

·        Wednesday, January 11, 6:30 p.m., Foothills Branch Library Roadrunner Room, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue. Dance Instruction: Foxtrot and Swing. Join dance instructor Betty Jo Gregolynskyj to learn and practice the basics of two favorite Gatsby-era dances. Space is limited. Call 623-930-3844 to register. Registration in pairs is recommended.

·        Saturday, January 14, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., Main Library Auditorium, 5959 W. Brown Street. Join film scholar Jeannie Berg to watch and discuss the 1974 version of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby starring Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. For more information call 623-930-3573.

·        Tuesday, January 17, 10:15 a.m., Velma Teague Branch Library Storytime Room, 7010 N. 58^th Avenue. In conjunction with this year’s The Big Read selection, the 58^th Avenue Book Club will read and discuss The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. For more information call 623-930-3431.

·        Wednesday, January 18, 7:00 p.m., Foothills Branch Library Hummingbird Room, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue. Join us for a lively and enlightening discussion of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. For more information call 623-930-3844.

·        Thursday, January 26, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Main Library Auditorium, 5959 W. Brown Street. Live at the Library: Uvon Brooks Presents “Gatsby Era” Blues and Jazz Review. In celebration of this year’s Big Read selection, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Uvon Brooks and her band, “The Blues Nights,” will present a high energy musical show that weaves music, catchy phrases and historical vignettes with songs from the Jazz Age. For more information call 623-930-3573.

The Great Gatsby events for teens at the Glendale Public Libraries include:

·        Saturday, January 7, 2:00 – 4:30 p.m., Foothills Branch Library Roadrunner Room, 19055 N. 57^th Avenue. Join in the Big Read’s Gatsby festivities by making a Jazz-era inspired beaded necklace fit for vintage and contemporary flappers. Ages 12 – 18. Supplies are provided, but registration is required. Call 623-930-3840, stop by the reference desk, or go online to register beginning December 17.

·        Monday, January 30, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m., Main Library Large Meeting Room, 5959 W. Brown Street. Flappers and Gangsters! Ages 12-18. Come celebrate The Big Read, The Great Gatsby and the awesome Roaring ‘20s. Make a fascinator, learn the Charleston, have a NERF gunfight and more. Registration begins January 16, 2012. For more information call 623-930-3580.

For other Big Read events around the Valley, visit www.westvalleyarts.org.

On Wednesday, January 11, La Piazza Al Forno will donate 1/2 of their sales for that day to the family of Officer Brad Jones.  The funds raised will be used to send Officer Jones’ family to Washington, DC where, in his honor, his name will be added to the National Memorial.  Please see attached flyer for more information.

Glendale Union High School

Art, the Heat of Education Student Art Exhibition

A few examples from the  amazing art at the Glendale Adult Center by high school students Glendale Union High School students.   The Exhibition includes both two-dimensional and three-dimensional works. The show was over on December 12, 2011.  The Glendale Adult Center hosts many wonderful showings of art and is located at 5970 West Brown  you can give them a call for more information on upcoming events at 623-930-4321.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7147

"A Mad Tea Party" a watercolor/pen work by artist Jessica Bryant of Moon Valley High School; A. Smith is the art teacher.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7149.

Banner Thunderbird certified as DaTscan Center of Excellence

The Nuclear Medicine department at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center in Glendale has been qualified as a DaTscan Center of Excellence. This means that the hospital has access to the first and only FDA-approved radiopharmaceutical indicated to assist in evaluating adult patients with suspected Parkinsonian syndromes. These include Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy, and progressive palsy.  DaTscan may be used to help differentiate essential tremor from tremor due to Parkinsonian syndromes.

In order to qualify as a DaTscan Center of Excellence, GE, the creator of DaTscan, has to validate sites before they will provide them with the radiopharmaceutical.  They check to ensure that the equipment, technologists and radiologists are capable of dispensing, imaging and interpreting the high-quality DaTscan images. The images are acquired with a gamma camera that is validated to perform the imaging.

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GLENDALE ENGINEERING SHINES

AT INDUSTRY AWARDS CEREMONY

            GLENDALE, Ariz. – The city of Glendale’s Engineering Department was recently honored by the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) for multiple projects the city completed in the last year.

Three projects in total were recognized; Grand Excellence Awards were bestowed to the Pedestrian/Bike Bridge at 63^rd Avenue and Loop 101 and the Sahuaro Ranch Park softball complex renovation.  The third Glendale design, the Oasis Groundwater Treatment Plant, was awarded the Honor Excellence Award.

 The Pedestrian/Bike Bridge, which opened in May, now provides regional connectivity to the Valley’s multi-use pathway system. The cable-stay bridge has 20 cables that are each 1 and 3/8-inches thick holding the bridge in place. The bridge is 260 feet across and weighs approximately 198 tons, and is the first bridge of its kind in Arizona.   Another aspect of the project is a pedestrian-friendly crossing signal, called a HAWK (High-intensity Activated crossWalK). Located on the north side of Loop 101 on the westbound Beardsley frontage Road, is specifically designed for pedestrians. Unlike a traditional pedestrian crossing signal, a HAWK is dark until a pedestrian pushes the crosswalk button to cross the roadway and features a countdown display so that the pedestrian can see how many seconds remain in the crossing time.

The 25-year-old Sahuaro Ranch Park softball complex was completely overhauled.  The renovations and redesign focused on the lack of shade; opportunities for “green” improvements; and efficiencies in electrical, water and other costs.  The design added two multi-purpose fields to the original ball field design to support youth soccer, football and other organized activities.  The new design increases comfort and capacity of the seating areas for viewing events and the fields are now completely handicapped accessible. In addition, the ball fields have a special soils mix engineered for increased drainage, enriched organics to cut down on fertilizers and chemicals, and a blend of materials for moisture retention to reduce the annual water consumption . The turf areas also have new sprinkler irrigation, equipped with a ‘fertigation’ system, allowing staff to fertilize and irrigate simultaneously. Fertigation allows the turf to absorb up to 90% of the applied nutrients, as opposed to previous rates of 10- 40%.

The Oasis Groundwater Treatment Plant was a complex and technical facility, the completion of which epitomizes a four-year, 50-million-dollar project that includes a central groundwater plant at Oasis campus, six groundwater wells throughout the city and six miles of conveyance piping.  This plant complements the existing Oasis Surface Water Plant, which also received an ACEC Grand Excellence Award, as well as the American Public Works Association (APWA) Project of the Year in 2009.  The 10-million-gallon Ion Exchange (IX) plant will remove nitrate from groundwater and supply to the distribution grid.  Being the largest IX plant west of the Mississippi, this landmark groundwater plant provides unprecedented flexibility, redundancy, reliability and quality to the water production portfolio for the city. 

Pictured, from left to right:

Scott Trusler, CH2MHILL (Consultant) = Larry Broyles, City Engineer, City of Glendale

Arif Rahman, Prinicipal Engineer, City of Glendale -  Ryan Rhoades, CH2MHILL

Mark Berger, Sundt (Contractor)   -  Perry Jaicks, Sundt (Contractor)

Craig Johnson, Director of Water Services, City of Glendale

GLENDALE GLITTERS SPECTACULAR WEEKEND DESIGNATED
 OFFICIAL ARIZONA CENTENNIAL EVENT

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – To commemorate the state’s centennial, Governor Jan Brewer will be the city’s guest of honor for the opening night of Glendale Glitters on Friday, Nov. 25.

         The Governor will join Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs and city councilmembers on stage during the Countdown to Glendale Glitters Show beginning at 5:30 p.m. The 30-minute show will culminate with the Governor and City Council turning on the 1.5 million lights that cover 16 blocks throughout downtown, creating Arizona’s largest free holiday light display.         

Along with the special appearance from the governor, Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekend has also received designation as an official centennial event by the Arizona Centennial Commission.

“The Arizona Centennial commemoration promises to be a year of celebration, reflection and newfound discovery of Arizona’s most important cultural and historical treasures. Glendale Glitters Spectacular Weekend is the perfect event to have associated with the centennial,” stated Karen Churchard, director of the Arizona Centennial Commission.

The kickoff weekend for Glendale’s annual holiday light display is Friday, Nov. 25 and Saturday, Nov. 26, from 5-10 p.m. each evening.

In addition to commemorating the state’s 100^th birthday, the festival will feature elements to celebrate Arizona’s statehood, including a video as part of the lighting show that highlights the centennial; 100 ornaments created by Glendale elementary school students that will adorn the city’s 30-foot Christmas tree, as well as a large illuminated sign that will read “Happy 100^th Birthday Arizona.”

For more information on Glendale’s upcoming events, visit www.glendaleaz.com/events or call 623-930-2299. For additional information on the Arizona Centennial Commission, visit www.arizona100.org. 

Jeri Westerson for Authors @ The Teague 

 

 

Author Rebecca Cantrell is right. When Jeri Westerson appears for an author event, she brings cool toys. She recently appeared for Authors @ The Teague on her Troubled Bones tour. Anyone who wanted to handle her medieval weapons was welcome to try them out. Jeri does a terrific program, fun and informative.

Westerson calls her style medieval noir. She said she was first writing historical fiction at a time when Publishers Weekly called historical fiction dead. She tried to sell it for ten years, and saw her agents come and go. One of those agents said, why don’t we try mysteries. After more rejections, Jeri thought maybe she should try mysteries. She decided to write medieval mysteries. She always loved Ellis Peters’ Brother Cadfael. But many of those medieval mysteries have a slower pace with a monk or nun as the protagonist. Westerson wanted to do something much different. 

 

 

Westerson was reading Chandler and Hammett, so she decided to create a hardboiled detective in a medieval setting. Then, he would be hired to solve mysteries. She made him the typical lone detective. Crispin Guest is hard-drinking and hard-living. He gets beaten up. He’s a sucker for a dame in trouble. But, he also was a knight, so he’s educated, and has the skills he needs to be an investigator. He can read and write. He knows several languages. He has in intense sense of justice and honor.  When Crispin Guest was convicted of treason, he lost his knighthood. Everything that defined him was taken. Guest redefines himself as “the Tracker.”

London becomes another character in Westerson’s books. Each book deals with a religious relic or venerated object. Troubled Bones, the latest book, deals with relics at Canterbury Cathedral, the bones of Thomas à Becket. Crispin got in some trouble in London, and the sheriff offered him options, go to jail or do a job for the Archbishop of Canterbury. So, Guest agreed to guard the bones of Thomas à Becket. The Archbishop was afraid the Lollards would steal them. Lollards were members of a reformist movement, and they didn’t believe in relics. While Crispin was in the cathedral, a pilgrim was murdered.

Westerson told us she had been waiting to do this book since she knew she was setting her series in the 14^th century. She wanted to do this story. Jeri’s parents were rabid Anglophiles. They were history buffs, particularly British history buffs. Their collection included fiction and nonfiction from authors such as Thomas B. Costain and Norah Lofts.

As a kid, Jeri read a child’s version of The Canterbury Tales when she was eight nor nine. It had great illustrations. She loved the pilgrims. Then the afterword said Chaucer died before he finished The Canterbury Tales, and she was upset. Naturally, some of the bawdier tales were left out of the child’s version.

Jeri’s mother had a record of The Canterbury Tales. It included the prologue and some of the stories, written and read in middle English. Westerson loved the lyrical flow of the language.

 

When Westerson was young, her parents took the family to lots of museums. For a family of five, it was cheap entertainment because admission was free. One they visited was the Huntington Library. It had a Gutenberg Bible. There was one of Shakespeare’s quartos, and one of his bad quartos. And, there was the Ellesmere Manuscript. It was commissioned after Chaucer’s death. It was written by hand, and contains illustrations of all the pilgrims and Chaucer. 

So, Westerson has been waiting to get to the right year to write about The Canterbury Tales and Chaucer. In Troubled Bones, Crispin Guest meets the pilgrims and Chaucer. Chaucer was quite an interesting person. He was a knight, a poet, a spy for the king. His sister-in-law was the mistress of the Duke of Lancaster, John of Gaunt.

Westerson said she does most of her research in university libraries. There are a number of archives on the Internet. Many of the small archives are thrilled to answer her questions. She’s only been to Europe once when she was eighteen. She was there for a month in England and northern Europe.

It was Canterbury Cathedral that struck her, and touched her the most. Westerson showed us a diagram of the Cathedral, showing it built outside the town. The monastery was there as well, and it was self-sufficient. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the voice of Rome, had his own manor house. She showed us a picture of the narrow gate leading to the cathedral, perfect as a gate to get to the heavenly cathedral. The west gate was still being built in Crispin’s days. There were towers and guards. Mercy Lane, on the way to the cathedral, was a medieval lane. Canterbury Cathedral is very much a character in Troubled Bones.

 

Thomas à Becket was murdered in Canterbury Cathedral. At one time, he was King Henry II's best friend. Henry II was the father of Richard the Lionheart and King John. Becket was Chancellor of England. Henry II had a problem with the Church. He wanted to try clerics in court, and the Archbishop of Canterbury told him no. They had to be tried in Church courts. Then, the Archbishop died, and Henry seized the opportunity. He had Thomas made Archbishop, even though he wasn’t a priest.

However, Thomas took his job seriously, and the next time Henry II brought up the subject of trying priests, Thomas said no. The priests were under the jurisdiction of the Church. Henry was frustrated, and, at court, asked, “Who will rid me of the troublesome priest?” Four barons killed him while he was at prayer in the cathedral. The people immediately declared Becket a saint, and the Church made it official only a year later. Canterbury Cathedral became a place of pilgrimage.  Henry II said, please forgive me for having him murdered, and wore sackcloth. Pilgrimage sites were very popular at the time because people could get points off their time in purgatory by making a pilgrimage.

Westerson showed us illustrations of Becket’s shrine. A canopy was lowered over it to protect it at night. During the day, though, people could touch the bones. It’s just that some started to take home bones as souvenirs. There was a charge to come and see the shrine.

The shrine to Thomas à Becket is no longer there. There was another Henry who had problems with the Church. Henry VIII took over the Church of England. He dissolved the monasteries, and destroyed shrines, particularly this one. It was a shrine to an Archbishop who opposed a king named Henry.

The coffin of Edward of Woodstock, the Black Prince, is also there. His surcoat, helm, gauntlets and sword are on display. It’s unusual to have the originals in a museum.

Jeri told us she likes to write about medieval times because she likes to play with the weapons. She does pack them in her luggage when she flies. The TSA always picks her luggage when they do random searches. She thinks they actually take everything out and play with them.

 

Then, Westerson took time to show us the weapons she brought. The broadsword weighed three pounds, and was forty-four inches long. It was a one-handed weapon, more or less. It was designed as a hacking and slashing weapon. It was not used as a foil, as it is in many films.

She said everyone needed a good dagger. If you’re caring a small shield, a buckler, it’s also good to have a dagger. That’s where the term swashbuckler came from. A man could block a broadsword with a dagger and a buckler. Women wore jewel-encrusted daggers. Westerson even recommended a particular dagger because if someone was stabbing with a dagger, there would be momentum with their hand, and when the dagger stops in the body, the hand might continue, and the person would be cut. So, she said you wanted a dagger with a piece to stop the hand from being cut.

Jeri had a piece of mail in her possession. She said it was part of a piece sent to a museum for repairs. It would rust, so it needed to be cleaned in sand. She demonstrated the use of a little battleax, saying it would be used on horseback, and the user would slash away. She showed us what most of us would have called a mace. But, hers is a flail. Attached with a chain, it’s a flail. Without a chain, it’s a mace. That would be used on horseback.

 

She showed us the gauntlet, then the sugarloaf helm. It was called that because sugar came in a container of that shape.

Jeri Westerson's next book, Blood Lance, has jousting in it. She'll have a powerpoint in which she’s on a 2000 pound Percheron dressed as a knight. It’s hard to see with the helm. But, the knight on that horse would plow through foot soldiers.

Asked to talk about Crispin’s apprentice, Jack Tucker, Westerson said she introduced him in the first book, Veil of Lies. He was an orphan, eleven years old, and a cutpurse. Each book is now a year later, so Jack ages.  Westerson has turned in book five, and is working on six. Jack is a Huck Finn, Artful Dodger character. He’s all kinds of things to Crispin, including the child and family he’ll never have. After a couple books, Crispin takes him under his wing, seeing him as his legacy. In Troubled Bones, Jack has his own chapters, and many readers say those are their favorites.

Westerson likes writing a series because she’s writing the world’s largest novel. She knows the backstory. Jack’s growing up, and, someday, Crispin might.  Jack starts at eleven, and he’s now thirteen/fourteen. The characters change in the course of the series.

Most of the books are set in London. Maybe one will be set in France. Chaucer is in the next one. In this series, she can follow Crispin, but also can follow the historical timeline. She can include the politics of the time, and sometimes, more of the actual characters who lived.

To finish up, members of the audience tried on the helm and gauntlet, and played with the medieval weapons while Jeri Westerson signed books. This program combined books, history and weapons, a little different for Authors @ The Teague.

Jeri Westerson's website is www.jeriwesterson.com 

Troubled Bones by Jeri Westerson. St. Martin’s Minotaur. ©2011. ISBN 9780312621636 (hardcover), 288p.

 

 

 

Trick-or-Treat!  Southwest Ambulance shares 
the Halloween spirit -- and safety tips

Mesa, Ariz. (October 28, 2011) -  Recent online surveys rank Halloween second only to Christmas as the family favorite holiday.  With the U.S. Census Bureau stating that an estimated 41 million children went trick-or-treating in 2010, Southwest Ambulance is doing its part to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience this Halloween season.

Halloween is a fun time for children, but it can be an injury-prone holiday, too. Each year, Southwest Ambulance attends to many preventable injuries involving cars and trick-or-treaters, burns, falls and cuts from pumpkin-carving.

“It only takes a few seconds for an injury to occur, but by thinking ahead you can safeguard your kids and enjoy the day and evening,” says Southwest Ambulance’s Medical Director, Dr. Garth Gemar. “We strongly encourage everyone - kids, teens and adults - to be safe and responsible whether they are out trick-or-treating or attending celebrations.”

Southwest Ambulance is encouraging parents to keep their youngsters safe and happy this time of year with the following safety tips:

  Source:  http://www.cdc.gov/family/halloween/

GOT CANDY? BRING IT TO SOUTHWEST AMBULANCE
 AND MAKE A SOLDIER SMILE

Southwest Ambulance Collects Halloween 
Candy to Support Troops Overseas

Wondering what you will do with your leftover Halloween candy? Avoid a sugar high and bring your candy to Southwest Ambulance. For the second year in a row, Southwest Ambulance has teamed up with Operation Gratitude to collect Halloween candy for inclusion in care packages sent to American troops overseas. Last year, Southwest Ambulance collected 150 letters and 663 pounds of candy for Operation Gratitude (a non-profit organization based out of the Army National Guard Armory in Van Nuys, California).

Save yourself a stomach ache and make a soldier smile by bringing your candy to one of Southwest Ambulance’s two Halloween candy collection events:

EAST VALLEY COLLECTION

Date:                     Tuesday, November 1

Time:                     7 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m.

Location:               Southwest Ambulance Headquarters

      708 W. Baseline Road, Mesa

WEST VALLEY COLLECTION

Date:                     Thursday, November 3

Time:                     7 to 9 a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m.

Location:               Southwest Ambulance West Valley Operations Facility

                              5222 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale

A Southwest Ambulance employee participating in the event, Duty Officer Jesse Paez, returned from Iraq in 2010 from a second tour of duty with Army DC02-285. Paez says he is grateful to witness continued support for deployed troops.

“Time spent away from loved ones and friends is much easier to manage knowing people are thankful for what we do,” says Paez. “It’s a great boost for morale.”

Event participants are encouraged to write letters to send along with their candy, and will have an opportunity to tour Southwest Ambulance’s Salute our Troops Unit. The ambulance displays a unique collection of images depicting World War II, Vietnam, an A-10 “Warthog” aircraft, the Boeing AH-64 Apache Longbow helicopter, and a mix of notable, inspirational quotes. Collected candy and letters will be loaded into the Salute our Troops Unit, then packaged in Southwest Ambulance’s medical supply warehouse and shipped to Operation Gratitude on Veterans Day.

Glendale- Super Bowl statement

City of Glendale statement

Glendale, Arizona is proud to be the host city for the 2015 Super Bowl, an economic engine that benefits our entire state. This decision is a positive reinforcement on the entire region, highlighting our ability to put Arizona on a stage for the world to see. Glendale’s opportunity to host a Super Bowl honors the continued commitment to Arizona voters to use the state-of-the-art University of Phoenix stadium and the amenities and infrastructure that were built around the stadium in Glendale to attract hundreds of thousands of people while also pumping money into the local economy. Just like in 2008, Glendale intends to once again make it one of the best bowl experiences for fans and for the entire region and looks forward to working with the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee to make the biggest game in the world the biggest success.

GLENDALE’S OFFICE OF SPECIAL EVENTS WINS

THREE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS

         GLENDALE, Ariz. –Glendale has garnered three awards from the festival industry’s top professional organization, the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA).

Announced at the association’s annual conference last week, these awards come on the heels of the Office of Special Events receiving several state AzTEC awards weeks earlier.        

A Gold Pinnacle Award was presented to the Office of Special Events staff for “Best TV Promotion,” which is doubly significant in that it highlights the collaboration with the city’s Glendale 11 television station, which produced the 30-second for the 2011 Glendale Jazz & Blues Festival.

Two Bronze Pinnacle Awards were won for “Best New Promotion” for a Silly Bandz promotion within the Glendale Glitter & Glow Block Party, and "Best Full Length TV Local Program” for the Glendale Jazz & Blues Festival.

“These awards represent the highest recognition in the events industry and reflect the city’s ongoing priority of creating a vibrant downtown and enhancing commerce in the area,” said Jerry McCoy, deputy director of Marketing/Communications.

The IFEA professional competition drew more than 1200 entries this year from among the world’s top festivals and events. Winning entries came from organizations as diverse as the Indy 500 Festival in Indianapolis, the Portland Rose Festival and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses. International contenders from around the globe included Canada, South Korea, Singapore, Poland, The Netherlands  and Slovenia.

The IFEA is a non-profit membership organization with members spanning 40 countries and five continents, and offers the most complete source of ideas, resources, information, education and networking for festival and event professionals worldwide.

Glendale Library Manager Lesa Holstine

 Wins Outstanding Library Service Award

Glendale, Ariz. – The Arizona Library Association (AzLA) will honor a select group of people at its 2011 conference in November. This year’s Outstanding Library Service Award recipient is Lesa Holstine, library manager for the Velma Teague Branch of the Glendale Public Library.

Presented to an individual whose activities go beyond the standard requirements of good library service, the award recognizes activities that impact the local community and serve as a model for other libraries.

In her seven years as the Velma Teague Library manager, Holstine’s highly esteemed book critiques and renowned authors’ visits have transformed the small downtown Glendale library into a literary powerhouse. Holstine has attracted the attention of national publishers, best-selling authors and library patrons who line up for a steady stream of discussions, author appearances, book signings and lectures.

Holstine reads an average of twenty books a month for reviews, with a heavy emphasis on mysteries and thrillers - - a passion she says began in her childhood with the Nancy Drew series and other children’s mysteries.

Many of the books she reads are sent to her by publishers hoping for a review. After the books are read and reviewed, she donates them to the library to help offset budget cuts in the library’s collection development fund. As a result, the Velma Teague Library is now home to one of the finest collections of mysteries and thrillers in the area.

Winner of the “Spinetingler Award for Best Reviewer” in both 2009 and 2010, her widely acclaimed reviews can be found in a number of publications including Library Journal, Mystery Readers Journal, The Strand Magazine and Women’s World.

Holstine started her popular blog, “Lesa’s Book Critiques,” in 2005. Her book reviews have been picked up by USAtoday.com, Reuters, Glendale Daily Planet and other distributors.

Authors praise Holstine for giving honest reviews of their books, even if it means going against the grain. Many of her reviewed authors are hosted at the library for book signings through the popular “Authors @ the Teague” series, which regularly attracts nationally best-selling authors such as William Dugoni, New York Times bestseller and William Dietrich, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.

Holstine’s career as a library manager/administrator has spanned over 30 years from Ohio to Florida and now to Arizona. 

Jeri Westerson will be appearing for 
Authors @ The Teague on Monday, Oct. 24 at 2 p.m.

Troubled Bones by Jeri Westerson

I just fell in love with a character, Jeri Westerson’s Crispin Guest. Troubled Bones is the fourth in her medieval noir series. Now, I have to go back and read the three earlier books. Fortunately, they’re in that bottomless pit I call a closet.

Death by the Dozen by Jenn McKinlay

____________________________________________________

Who wouldn't like a mystery that features cupcakes? I'll admit there are a number of reasons I enjoy Jenn McKinlay's Cupcake Bakery mysteries. They're set in Scottsdale, Arizona, and I recognize a number of the sites in the books. It's hard to resist all those recipes for cupcakes. It’s fun to watch the three protagonists challenge each other to movie quotes. I know and like Jenn, a fellow librarian.  But, the best reason to read her third book in this series, Death by the Dozen? It’s the best yet, with great characters, and a terrific, tightly written plot.

The Glendale Fire Department is hosting its 29th Annual Fire Prevention Parade Saturday, October 8th. 

Photos and story by Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet www.glendaledailyplanet.com

October 8, 2011 Mayor Elaine Scruggs at the 29th Annual Fire Prevention Day Parade Mayor Elaine Scruggs rides on Glendale’s Historic Fire Engine, the Nash during the 29th Annual Fire Prevention Day Parade.  This year’s parade offered introduction to the Fire Department’s 100 year anniversary celebration taking place in

CAR EXTRACTION  DEMONSTRATION

The car extrication demonstration was a feature event of the 2011 Fire Prevention Parade in Downtown Glendale, Saturday, October 8, 2011.  The extrication demonstration was preformed by the crew from LT157..  Participants included Captain Erik Eckert, Engineer Willie Galindo, Firefighter Steve Kennedy, and Firefighter Phil Pompa.  Other firefighters in uniform are E157 Captain Mark Largent, Engineer Randy Hanso, Firefighter Shawn Coder, and Firefighter Adam Pottle. 

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

The Jaws of Life are put to use removing parts of the car in order to reach the victim (pretend) at Saturday’s event.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Car extraction demonstration preformed by crews from LT157 and E157.

Firefighter on the left uses the Jaws of Life to remove the door on the passenger side of the car.  Patience, strength and communication are some of the requirements to successfully remove the victim from the wrecked car.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

The Jaws of Life are used to remove the door from the passenger’s side during the demonstration.

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Paramedics get ready to move the "victim" during the car extraction at Saturday's parade events.  There is a clown in the photograph, Flacko.  The event was a staged event to demonstrate what emergency crews often have to do to rescue a person trapped in a car after an accident; even if it means cutting through the car's door or roof with the Jaws of Life to reach the victim.  A car accident can be a traumatic event, Flacko the clown helps to ease the stressful situation with humor.  Viewers of the demonstration are then more likely to remember, to learn, some of the techniques firefighters use to rescue a victim. 

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Other firefighters in uniform are E157 Captain Mark Largent, Engineer Randy Hanso

THE PARADE

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Big Red, the Arizona Cardinals mascot, waves to the crowd on Glendale Avenue at this year's Fire Prevention Parade.  

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

McGuff, the Crime Dog, waves to the crowd gathered along Glendale Avenue at Saturday's Fire Prevention Parade.

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio was one of the Fire Prevention Parade dignitaries.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet. October 8, 2011.

Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs waves to the crowd during the Fire Prevention Parade on Saturday, Richard Franklin, Glendale Fire Department is driving.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Cub Scout Pack 824 Fire Prevention Parade entry.

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Girls from St. Louis the King carry their school's banner in the 29^th annual Glendale Fire Prevention Parade, Saturday, October 8, 2011.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Flacko, the Clown, did what he likes to do, clowning around during the Fire Prevention Parade.  Safety is on his mind, he is wearing his helmet.

 
Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet.

Young folks enjoy diving tiny car!

  Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet

Future Firefighter.  Young firefighter Gianni Carr, 4 years old of Glendale, plans to wear his uniform for Halloween and being a firefighter when he is old enough.

Don’t Put Yourself or Loved Ones At Risk:  Get A Flu Shot

Flu vaccine during pregnancy protects the mother and the newborn baby for the first six months of life

PHOENIX (September 23, 2011) – It doesn’t need to be wintertime for the flu symptoms to start.  That’s why it’s not too early to get a head start on protecting yourself from the virus with a flu shot.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The symptoms can be mild or severe, and can also lead to death.  Older folks, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions are at especially high risk for serious flu complications. Healthcare workers should also be vaccinated for the protection of their patients.  The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year.

The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against the three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. This includes an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and an influenza B virus.

Pregnant women are at an increased risk of severe illness and even death from seasonal flu complications, however some don’t get the vaccine for fear that it’s dangerous to the unborn baby. The flu shot given during pregnancy has actually been shown to protect both the mother and her baby (up to 6 months old) from flu.

"The flu vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective,” said Kerry Montefour, BGSMC Infection Prevention.  “During pregnancy, mothers pass on their immunity, protecting babies in those early months of life.  All pregnant women and women who expect to become pregnant are urged to get their flu vaccine."

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, every year in Arizona:

• 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu
• more than 4,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications
• about 700 people die from flu.

During the 2010-2011 flu season, Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center reported 65 confirmed cases of influenza. 

This year a new intradermal vaccine was approved for use by the FDA for those 18 to 64. This shot has a shorter needle and is delivered into the skin rather than the muscle.  The flu mist is also available for people ages 2-49, and who are not pregnant.

Flu vaccines are currently available at clinics, pharmacies, and doctor’s offices.

About Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center

Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has been providing medical care to Arizona and the Southwest since 1911. Banner Good Samaritan is owned and operated by Phoenix-based Banner Health, a non-profit organization. The hospital was named to the 2011-’12 U.S.News & World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” list for Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology, Geriatrics and Gynecology. Banner Good Samaritan has been recognized as a Magnet™ facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, the highest honor a hospital can earn for its nursing care and practices, and has been named one of the Best Places to Work in the Valley by The Phoenix Business Journal and BestCompaniesAZ in 2007 and 2008 and one of the “Top 100 Hospitals to Work For” by Nursing Professionals magazine.

Hispanic Network Breakfast

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Glendale Civic Center 5750 W. Glenn Drive

The City of Glendale's Hispanic Network (GHN) honored Martin Moreno as the recipient of the "Promoting Community Involvement and Education Award" this morning at the GHN Hispanic Heritage Breakfast.

Moreno, art director of Las Artes de Maricopa County, was born in Michigan, where he grew up speaking Spanish at home and English in school. His parents were hard-working people who worked in the fields and the foundries. He credits these experiences with providing much of the subject matter he depicts in his artwork.

Make Everyday Seat Check Saturday!
Article by: Lisa Kutis PIO Glendale Fire Department

SENATOR JOHN McCAIN INTRODUCES POSTAL REFORM ACT

Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today introduced the Postal Reform Act of 2011, a bill to restore the financial health and long-term viability of the United States Postal Service.  The Postal Service is expected to end this fiscal year with a $10 billion loss, and by its own estimates faces a shortfall of up to $238 billion by 2020.  At the end of this month, the Postal Service will not be able to make a required $5.5 billion payment to fund future retirees' health benefits.  This legislation is needed to ensure that future generations of Americans will have a viable Postal Service.  This bill is the Senate companion to the legislation introduced by Representative Darrell Issa (R-CA) in the U.S. House of Representatives this summer.

Senator McCain submitted the following statement for the record upon introducing the Postal Reform Act of 2011:

“Mr. President, today I am introducing the Postal Reform Act of 2011, which will restore the financial health and long-term viability of the United States Postal Service.  This bill is the companion to the legislation that Representative Darrell Issa introduced in the House of Representatives in June of this year.  I thank Representative Issa for his leadership on this important issue.

“According to their own estimates, by 2020 the Postal Service expects to face a shortfall of up to $238 billion.  Even with dramatic cost savings of $12 billion and workforce reduction of 110,000 postal employees in the past four years, the Postal Service is expected to end this fiscal year with a $10 billion loss.

“First-Class mail, which makes up more than half of Postal Service revenues, continues to fall at alarming rates and shows no signs of ever recovering.  This, combined with 80 percent labor costs and labor contracts that contain ‘no-layoff’ clauses, points to the fact that the Postal Service is broken.

“Congress can no longer enact temporary fixes that avert financial crisis for only a brief period.  Congress, the Postal Service, labor unions, and the mailing community must be willing to lay everything on the table and make hard choices now to save the Postal Service for the future.  I believe the Postal Reform Act of 2011 will do just that.

“Two key provisions in this bill alone would save the Postal Service billions of dollars annually.  First, the bill would create a Postal Service Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority, which is modeled after the District of Columbia control board Congress created to address the fiscal crises the city was facing in the mid-1990s.  This Authority, triggered by a Postal Service default on its federal obligations, would replace the Postal Board of Governors with mandates to cut costs, and put the Postal Service back on a path to financial solvency.

“The second key provision would create a Commission on Postal Reorganization that would use a BRAC-like process to consolidate and close post offices and mail processing facilities.  According to the Postal Service, the ‘current mail processing network has a capacity of over 250 billion pieces of mail per year when mail volume is now 160 billion pieces of mail.  Right-sizing the network is vital to the future of the Postal Service and its customers.’  Congress, however, continues to put up political road blocks that prevent these closings and consolidations.  This bill will take politics out of the process and allow the Postal Service to right-size its operations.

“Other provisions in the bill would require arbitrators to take into account the financial health of the Postal Service if labor contracts move to arbitration.  It would also exempt the Postal Service from the Davis-Bacon Act, the Service Contract Act, and other wage rules that increase contracting costs.

“Additionally, there are certain types of mail upon which the Postal Service routinely loses money.  This bill would require that the vendors responsible for this mail be responsible for covering their costs.  In Fiscal Year 2010, the Postal Service lost nearly $1.7 billion on these type of ‘underwater’ postal products that failed to cover their costs.  For example, the Periodicals class of mail, which includes newspapers and magazines, has not covered its costs for 14 consecutive years, generating total losses of $4.3 billion over that period.

“The bill also contains common sense language that would mandate that Postal Service employees pay the same health and life insurance premium percentage as other federal workers.  This is estimated to save the Postal Service $700 million annually.

“Finally, this bill will allow the Postal Service to move to 5-day delivery, at a savings of anywhere from $1.7 to $3.1 billion annually.

“We can no longer support temporary fixes to the Postal Service.  If we continue to act in this irresponsible way, the American taxpayer will be the one that ultimately suffers in the form of higher postage prices and taxpayer bailouts.  We must make hard choices now so future generations of Americans will have a viable Postal Service.”

GLENDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT HONORS 12 YEAR
 OLD GIRL’S QUICK LIFE-SAVING ACTIONS!
Photos by Bette and Ed Sharpe

The Glendale Fire Department with the assistance of Topaz, the Glendale Crisis Response dog, presented Marissa with a special “life-saver” award.  This special award was presented to Marissa at Marshall Ranch Elementary School 12995 North Marshall Ranch Drive in Glendale on Wednesday, September 21, 2011 at 1:30pm.  

Marissa Bailey  accepts her award scroll from  Topaz , Glendale Fire’s Crisis Response dog  as Glendale firefighter Danny Valenzuela and Lynette Jelinek, Crisis Response Division Manager at Glendale Fire Department look on  from right and left.

 
Glendale Fire Department Chief Mark Burdick and Marissa Bailey. Topaz , Glendale Fire’s Crisis Response dog and Snowball meet for the first time.

In August, 12 year old Marissa Bailey, a 7^th grader at Marshall Ranch Elementary School, saved her dog’s life.  Marissa found her poodle outside, overcome by the extreme heat, and non-responsive.  She immediately rushed the dog inside and put him in the cold shower to cool him off.  He came to and has now made a full recovery, thanks to her quick life-saving actions.  Marissa, an avid dog-lover, enjoys reading books and watching educational programs about dogs.  In addition, she has learned a lot over the years from her Uncle who is a member of the Phoenix Fire Department and from the Glendale Fire Pal program at Marshall Ranch School.

 
Glendale Fire Department Chief Mark Burdick reads the award to Marissa Bailey and looking on are firefighter 
Danny Valenzuela and Lynette Jelinek, Crisis Response Division Manager at Glendale Fire Department.

Summer in the Valley of the Sun is not over yet.  Although the calendar says September, this week’s forecast is calling for more triple digit temperatures, so the heat is still extreme.  The Glendale Fire Department would like to remind the community to take precautions to avoid heat related illness and emergencies.  Keep pets inside, never leave a child or pet unattended in a hot vehicle, drink plenty of water and stay inside when temperatures rise.  Watch for symptoms of heat related illness:

·         Cool, moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat

·         Heavy sweating

·         Faintness/dizziness

·         Fatigue

·         Weak/rapid pulse

·         Light headedness upon standing

·         Muscle cramps

·         Nausea

·         Headache

If you think you are experiencing heat exhaustion:

·         Stop all activity and rest

·         Move to a cooler place

·         Drink plenty of cool water/sports drink

·         Call 9-1-1/seek medical attention

Keep in mind that when temperatures outside are just 80 degrees, the temperature in a car reaches 123degrees in less than one hour.  Imagine how hot your car gets when our valley temperature reaches 108!  Never leave a child or pets unattended in a hot car!

Glendale Fire Department personnel and members of the media line up to honor Marissa Bailey's quick thinking that saved her little dog snowball from death.

Glendale Fire Department Chief Mark Burdick and
Marissa Bailey with her pet poodle Snowball.

Glendale Fire Department personnel and members of the media line up to honor Marissa Bailey's quick thinking that saved her little dog snowball from death.

Kindle? Nook? iPad? Sony Pocket Reader?

Glendale Public Library Offers a New Free Workshop

“Introduction to E-Book Readers”

Marlene Jacobson, digital librarian from Glendale Public Library will discuss the differences between five of the top-rated e-book readers in a new workshop beginning this fall at the library. – Photo by Valerie Rupp

Glendale, Ariz. - There’s no question that people are reading e-books. In virtually every coffee shop, waiting room, nail salon, airport terminal, classroom, food court or public library, someone is bound to be holding an e-reader, scrolling or clicking their way through the millions of titles available for digital download.

            Reading is changing and many people are embracing the technology, often finding that they read more because the print quality and font-size adjustment capability is easier on the eyes than old-fashioned paper and ink.

E-readers are also more portable and easier to hold than most books. Leo Tolstoy’s epic tome War and Peace weighs the same on an e-reader as a short and sweet Harlequin romance tale.

While it’s clear that the reading experience is changing, it’s not as clear which e-reader delivers the features that are best suited for a range of different consumers with a variety of tastes, preferences and expectations.

Glendale Public Library is offering a workshop to help potential e-reader buyers sort out the differences between five of the top-rated devices: the Sony Pocket Reader; the Barnes & Noble Nook; the Barnes & Noble Nook Color; the Amazon Kindle; and the Apple iPad.

The free workshop, “Introduction to E-Book Readers,” will be held on Wednesday, September 14 and repeated on October 12, November 16 and December 14 from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the large meeting room at the Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown St.

Presented by digital librarian, Marlene Jacobson, the session will overview the features, specifications and functions of each device. Participants will also have an opportunity to explore each of the devices.

 “Glendale Public Library currently has over 48,000 titles available in digital format, and last May Amazon.com announced that its customers buy more e-books than printed ones,” says Jacobson. “E-reading is a clear trend, and we hope these workshops will help people choose the best e-reader for their needs.”

There are significant differences in the devices that the workshops will cover, including screen types, navigation, wireless capability, screen size and weight, supported file formats, price, library borrowing compatibility and vendor bookstore selection.

NOOK beams down to the Yucca District!

By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet www.glendaledailyplanet.com

...some day libraries will loan out tablets rather than books!! - J. Clark

 Stardate 8130.4.   -     KIRK ... By the way, thank you for this. (He lifts the book). 

     SPOCK ... I know of your fondness for antiques.

 KIRK (reads) ...  'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...' 

I find it particularly prophetic back in 1982  that there is a scene in STAR TREK II: THE WRATH OF KHAN where Spock gives Kirk a copy of Charles Dickens’ A TALE OF TWO CITIES as a birthday present.  This book appears to be the ONLY bound copy of manual or literature  onboard the Starship Enterprise.

Everyone else onboard... gets a tablet to read! As a mater of  fact, if you flash back to the original Star Trek Television series people seemed  to wander around   with tablet or electronic clipboards there too.

Of course on the other ship...  The film’s main villain, Khan, has copies of MOBY DICK and KING LEAR on the shelves of his cabin and has a habit of spouting out paraphrased lines  ripped from Melville and Shakespeare.   

Tonight... Earthdate 8.24.2011 at 7pm, Yucca District Councilperson Joyce Clark,, assisted by Yoman... ah.. er...   I mean Barbara George, ushered Glendale into the future!

The Library of our parents is certainly not  what exists now, nor will the library of twenty years from now be as ours is presently.

The 'e reader' pilot program is a 'game changer'  Clark observes, "The stereotypical library is dying -- and it's taking its shushing ladies, dank smell and endless shelves of books with it." she continues, "Books are being pushed aside for digital learning centers and gaming areas. "Loud rooms" that promote public discourse and group projects are taking over the bookish quiet. Hipster staffers who blog, chat on Twitter and care little about the Dewey Decimal System are edging out old-school librarians."

With the high cost of printing, disturbing, and housing vast quantities of hardback books, massive  resource information collectives were scarce and precious.  Today, that very same amount of information is  readily available, stored electronically and in many cases, free for the downloading.

The citizens that  patronize their local library will soon have the resources available to them electronically of vast academic research libraries, not just  from their region but from all of the  world..

Search technology and strategy  currently is  simple  consisting of text and some forms of audio and video but...Clark predicts,  "... next generation search technology will include the ability to search for such attributes as taste, smell, texture, reflectivity, opacity, mass, density, tone, speed, and volume."

In this future world, librarians will not become obsolete, but will offer assistance in other ways. Clark sees that, "People will not have the time and skills necessary to keep up on each new innovation in the search world, and they will need a competent professional to turn to."

Libraries  are becoming cultural centers not just a place to read books.

Clark explains, "A culture-based library is one that taps into the spirit of the community, assessing priorities and providing resources to support the things deemed most important. Modern day cultural centers include museums, theaters, parks, and educational institutions. The library of the future could include all of these, but individual communities will be charged with developing an overall strategy that reflects the identity and personality of its own constituency."

"I believe that this e reader pilot program is the start of a new future for Glendale’s libraries. These readers provide the capability of reading all kinds of books for free from our library without ever going to it. This new form of acquiring free material to read from the library will free capacity to move in different directions based upon community needs."

The initial list of residents from the Yucca District to try the new digital e readers are: Robert Grimes, Missi Schreiber, Bert Schwind,  Kathy Boubek, Judy Anderson and Ray Miles.   

Clark addressed the recipients, "You are my pioneers. You will use these e readers free of any charge for the next 2 months. You will fill out a survey form monthly to share your experiences in using these e readers along with who in your family used them. This information is important in determining future directions for Glendale’s library system. I want to thank you for your willingness and eagerness to participate and we look forward to hearing about how well – or not- these e readers fit your individual lifestyles."

After 2 months have passed another group of Yucca district citizens will be able to  use the   'e readers' 

We have just taken that "giant step" and  Stardate 8130.4. is just a bit closer... ---Ed Sharpe

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 04415

From the left: Robert Grimes, Missi Schreiber, Bert Schwind, Councilmember Joyce Clark, Kathy Boubek, Judy Anderson and Ray Miles.  These six residents from the Yucca District in Glendale are ready to give the new digital readers a try.  For most, this is their first time reading library books on an e-reader.  Each member of the Virtual Library Pilot Program was excited about using the new digital device, but with a little honest skepticism.  After all, using the e-readers will be a new experience. 

The readers are on loan for a two months.  As part of their agreement to participate in the Virtual Library Pilot Program with Councilmember Clark, a monthly survey is to be completed.  Will the new Barns & Noble NOOK E-Readers be a success?  If you would like more information or you would like to participate in the Yucca District NOOK E-Reader Program, please contact Councilmember Clark's office at 623-930-2250.  About twenty Yucca residents wanted to be among the first to check a NOOK out.

On Wednesday, August 24^th six Yucca residents were the first to receive NOOK E-Readers as part of Council Person Clark's Virtual Library program. In an effort to make it easier for Yucca residents to access the resources of the Glendale Library, she is offering this pilot program. The Glendale Library system has an expanding collection of items in electronic format. This digital media includes thousands of titles of fiction and non-fiction, bestsellers and technical manuals, as well as books for teens and children. There are more than 26,000 titles available for checkout using the Greater Phoenix Digital Library.  Participants of the program may borrow E-Readers for a period of two months and will be asked to complete a short survey so the program can be evaluated for future use. All Yucca district participants need a valid library card and a personal computer – either Windows or Mac will work.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 04426. Bert Schwind  (middle) tries out his new NOOK as Council Assistant Barbara George(left) and  Councilperson Clark (right) look on..

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 04408.The Barnes and Noble NOOKs are due back to Councilmember Clark's city hall office on October 19, 2011. In each envelope are some instructions on how to use the NOOKs and information on how to find checkout e-books at the Glendale Public Library. A Glendale Public Library card is required to participate in the program.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 04426. Council Assistant Barbara George shows Bert Schwind how easy it is to use the NOOK as Councilperson Clark looks on..

THE REBEL FREE 4 ALL FILM CHALLENGE EVENT
Observations and a lesson for us all -  by Kimber Leigh - Special to The Glendale Daily Planet

Thursday, August 11, 2011 7:00p.m. - 10:00p.m.
POLLACK TEMPE CINEMAS, Tempe, AZ, United States

EDIT, EDIT, and EDIT IT AGAIN!

 

Originally, this article was to be a general observation at the Rebel Free 4 All Challenge in August 2011.  However, after attending this festival, I decided to write something a bit outside of the box that would serve the reader in a more  informative way.

 

There were many interesting films screened.  Two in particular are a lesson for any new comer to the film industry.  I will explain why later in this article.  Directors of both films could have given up on the film because of critical feedback from judges and other film industry people who viewed the film before the audience screening.

 

Critical feedback is important especially to a new filmmaker.  Much of the film can be fixed in the editing process.  For instance, does the film tell a story?  Are there sound issues?  Is there missing footage and no time or resources to reshoot?  Are there scenes in the film that don't belong there?  Two films selected to screen at the festival faced some of these real film making challenges.

 

One of the films that showed at the Rebel Free 4 All Challenge was, Director Klor Rowland's Film, "Bloody Mother Trucker".  This film was shot two years ago and just recently screened.  Why the large space of time between shooting and this screening?   The story faced some real issues with storytelling in its original form.  But Rowland did not give up, even with some very critical feedback from others.  Rowland knew the importance of getting the job done once it was started.  Rowland himself, was involved in a film.  It never left the can due to some sound issues.  He decided, not to let an issue stop his film.

 

Instead of spending more money and having to use more of the actor's time and talent, he took the edit "bull" by the horns and put his creative genius to work.  Rowland put in hours upon hours with countless edits.  He was able to tell his story visually and balancing the film's visual story with the right amount of dialog.  Because of his persistence and being open to feedback Rowland, after spending more than a year on his project in the edit bay, found the right combination to take the audience on a blood bath journey into the minds of an organized family of organ thieves.  Being in the audience, I say he did a wonderful job of not letting his film fail.  I was engaged and entertained.

 

Another example of a re-edit (to make sure that a film gets to see the light of day) was "Betsy Boone's Big Bad Day", directed by Russel Williams.  This particular film follows a very different path.  It was originally shot for a 48 Hour Film Challenge.  As all versed filmmakers know, a 48 Hour Challenge can bring some real life issues.  This film had some editing issues due to the time constraints and was rejected at a local film festival in Arizona.

 

Williams could have given up.  He did not.  He holds his talent and the actor's and crew's time in high regard and decided to attack the editing issues in a very unique and interesting way.  Williams is a professor at the prestigious Art Institute of Phoenix.  As a homework assignment to his students, he gave them the film and asked six of them to do an edit that they thought best served the film.  After viewing all six edits, Williams chose one that struck him. That particular edit choice made the cut for the Rebel Free 4 All Challenge.  The film was well received by the audience and Arizona Film Critics.

 

This article is written for those films out there that were also rejected or given up on due to lost footage or sound issues.  Filmmaking is an art and should be approached as one.  If you have a film that has issues, the best advice would be to consult with someone who has met these same obstacles.  There is always a way to fix some of these problems in the editing process by being creative.  Also, be open-minded to criticism that is constructive. You make movies for audiences, not for judges or for critics.  Let the audience decide your film's fate.  To get the very best feedback on your film, show it to a small audience that has no ties to the film.  Ask them for their best input.  Do not take the feedback personally, but rather learn from it.

 

Never give up on a film that you spent valuable time and money on.  I have personally seen so many very talented filmmakers do this.  There is always a way to complete a project that was started with good talent whose intent is to make a good film and share that good film with the audience that it deserves.  Sometimes forgoing an ego issue will get a film to its final destination.  So get your film ready for takeoff and give it some gas and get it to its deserved home, which is the BIG SILVER SCREEN!

 

At the Pollack Theatre in Tempe, Rebel Free 4 All Challenge, 2011. In the photo from left to right are Dakota Raffaele, Dave Karhl, Layla Raffaele and Sally Ann Francis. Photo by Naomi Raffaele.

 

At the after party for the Rebel Free 4 All Challenge. In the photo from left to right are Janie Barnes, Michael Harrelson, Heather Viti Taylor, Kimber Leigh, Klor Rowland, and Diane Dresback. 

The festival is not only a great venue to enjoy indie cinema, but an incredible opportunity to meet and socialize with people in our community that write films, direct films, act in films, or just have a passion for the art and science of general filmmaking. - FILMSTOCK

 

2nd Annual 'DOG DAYS OF SUMMER 
Delights Human and Canine Alike!

By Ed and Bette Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet  
- www.glendaledailyplanet.com -

GLENDALE   AMPHITHEATRE, VISITOR CENTER AND MERCHANT SITES 
 SATURDAY, AUG. 6, 2011  - 6P.M.  to 9:00 P.M. 

EVERYONE HAD A DOGGONE GOOD TIME!

 

 

• Look! Mobile DTV is expected in two-thirds of U.S. households in 2012
  Mobile Digital TV is on track to be available in two-thirds of American households by early next year, according to the Open Mobile Video Coalition. A survey by the organization found that 96 stations already have mobile DTV and by the end of 2011, 126 stations in 48 markets should be mobile DTV capable. http://www.rbr.com/media-news/research/mobile-dtv-to-be-in-2-3-of-households-in-2012.html

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7th Annual Niños Seguros, Seguro, Que Sí 
Children's Safety Fair in Glendale for first time

By Ed Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet  
- www.glendaledailyplanet.com -

GLENDALE CIVIC CENTER located at 5750 W. GLENN DR. GLENDALE, AZ
 SATURDAY, JULY 30TH, 2011  - 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

Niños Seguros, Seguro Que Sí (Safe Kids, Sure Thing) was a standing room only event at times at the Glendale  Civic Center!

Niños Seguros, Seguro Que Sí (Safe Kids, Sure Thing) is a combination  Back to School back pack handout and Safety Fair which promotes fun and education in a  is a family festive environment  focusing on child safety, health and education.

The highlight of the July 30^th event is the "Backpack Giveaway," school aged children will receive a backpack, courtesy of event sponsors, to kick-off the new school year in style. In order to obtain a backpack, children picked up a voucher that was provided at the event. Participants were encouraged to get there early, even though there was and allotment of 1,500 backpacks, the event ran out of product early! 

This is the Safety Fair's first time on the Westside and Glendale Civic center was an ideal venue to hold this event. The July 30 safety fair previously was held in Phoenix, 

Ray Arvizu of Arvizu Advertising and Promotions and others started the wonderful event in 2003 with an emphasis on  safeguarding children from drowning. 

The water safety component is still highly touted and turned into great participatory  fun event by Fireman Bill,  A member of the Phoenix  Fire  Department. Though song and stories Fireman Bill (Bill Scott)  brings an entire room full of children to sing, dance and learn about  fire and water  safety.

This year's fair sponsors included: Carl's Jr, SRP, Cash 1, Grand Canyon University, INFINITY Insurance, Bear Essentials, City of Glendale, Arvizu Advertising and Promotions, La Voz, TV y Mas, and Mega 104.3 FM.

Eight lucky participants received donated laptops provided by  Air Products during a festive raffle.

Some of the other  raffle prices included  fifteen stuffed backpacks with school supplies, Two refurbished desktop Dell computers, Two family four packs to Arizona Sea Life Aquarium and Two bicycles, one for a boy and one for a  girl...

Even though there were only a certain number of the larger prizes, this was an event that no one was a looser!   With  thousands of pencils, pens, folders gifts, educational materials and coupons being handed out by the participating sponsors and vendors, no one went out of the hall empty handed!

BACKGROUND: 

Niños Seguros, Seguro Que Sí (Safe Kids, Sure Thing) is a year-round public service program created for the Hispanic community. The program reinforces the importance safeguarding children and helps increase awareness of common dangers in everyday life.

Since the programs inception in 2003, Niño Seguros has provided child identification cards to thousands of children statewide.

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(If you get this in EMAIL you need to go to www.glendaledailyplanet.com to see the video!)

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3232.

Abril Armenta, Ana Dittsworth and Jill Arambula at the Cash 1 booth at Saturday's 7th Annual Niños Seguros back to school safety fair.

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3247.

Blanca Barrera, SNACK Program, Maricopa County Department of Public Health.  More information can be found at this web site, http://www.maricopa.gov/publichealth/Programs/SNACK/carseats.aspx 

Emilio Gaynor / Arvizu Advertising and Promotions

Emilio Gaynor / Arvizu Advertising and Promotions

Keeping on the tradition of celebrating “Back to School”, Grand Canyon University and Arvizu Advertising gave away over 1500 backpacks  to Glendale students. The young lady in the photo, who performed for hundreds of parents and children, is wearing a traditional dance costume from southern Mexico.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 4177.

Gary Godlove and Adrhan Reznik from the Kidproof booth.  Kidproof is the #1 provider of proactive, preventative child safety education in North America.  Classes or workshops may require a fee.  For more information, visit their web site at  http://www.kidproofsafety.com.

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3235.

It was estimated that 6,500 kids attended the event Saturday between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.  School starts for the students in the Glendale Elementary School District.  Monday is August 1.

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no.3265.

Officer Machamer, Glendale Police Department D.A.R.E./G.R.E.A.T. programs, is ready to answer questions.

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3270.

Nelly Rebollar and family reach for information at Officer Machamer's booth.  

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no.3498.

There is a bond between these two police officers.  Officer Steve Kulb and Officer Samantha Zaragoza celebrate two years of marriage to each other. 

They met will attending detective school.  Zaragoza was with MSCO at the time  and Kulb was from Glendale PD.

Officer Kulb told us there are  at least 4 married couples on the Glendale Police Force.

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3494.

Rafael Grey stands with Buddy Dear ("Always swim with a buddy").  Buddy Bear is with the City of Phoenix Aquatics Section.  Buddy Bear can be invited to a party.  For more information visit his web site, http://phoenix.gov/sports/eventbud.html .

Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 3331.

Fireman Bill leads a group of volunteers in singing the song "Look to the Left, Look to the Right" before crossing a street.  If you sing it to yourself, you probably won't forget to look to the left and look to the right before crossing a street; good advice.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 4172.

Standing: Audrey Morales, Sal Gonzales, sitting: Nellie Alvarez and Joycelyn Gonzales at     the Good Night Pediatrics booth.  Good Night Pediatrics offers all-night urgent care for kids.

Good Night Pediatrics is located at 8801 West Union Hills Drive in Peoria; telephone number is 623-241-9026.  Also, appointments are not necessary and offer discounts for cash paying patients.