FLOOR REMARKS BY SENATOR JOHN McCAIN ON THE ADMINISTRATION’S HANDLING OF THE BOSTON TERROR SUSPECT

Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today delivered the following remarks on the floor of the U.S. Senate regarding the Obama Administration’s handling of the suspect in the Boston bombing last week:

“There has been some misunderstanding about the position that the Senator from South Carolina and I have taken on the detention and interrogation of the suspect in the Boston bombing. None of us is saying that the suspect should be indefinitely detained as an enemy combatant by the U.S. military or tried in a military tribunal. The suspect is a U.S. citizen and must be treated accordingly. And he will be.

“What we are saying is that the importance of treating the suspect in accordance with his rights as an American citizen must be balanced with our government’s top national security priority, which is the lawful, effective and humane interrogation of this suspect for the purposes of gathering intelligence. The Boston attacks were clearly inspired by the violent ideology of transnational Islamist terrorism. So we need to learn everything we can about what foreign terrorists or terrorist groups the suspect and his brother might have associated with – whether they were part of additional plots to attack our nation – and what other relevant information the suspect may possess that could prevent future attacks against the United States or our interests.

“Our civilian justice system offers a responsible option for striking this balance with American citizens. It allows the Justice Department to delay reading a suspect his Miranda rights if doing so is in the interest of ‘public safety.’ The Administration had rightly invoked this public safety exception in the case of the Boston suspect, which provided our national security professionals a discrete period of time to gather intelligence from the suspect without the presence of his lawyer.

“However, soon after questioning him this way, the Administration recently reversed itself and read the suspect his Miranda rights. In doing so, the Administration gave up a valuable opportunity to lawfully and thoroughly question the suspect for purposes of gathering intelligence about potential future terrorist plots. Whether we will be able to acquire such information has now been left entirely at the discretion of the suspect and his lawyer. Put simply, the suspect has been told he has the right to remain silent; and, if he doesn’t want to provide intelligence, he doesn’t have to.

“Is this a responsible balance between a citizen’s rights and our national security? The suspect had only been responsive for a couple of days before he was read his Miranda rights, and even then, he could not communicate verbally. Does anyone really believe that our national security professionals were able to acquire all of the relevant intelligence possessed by a suspect who could not talk in only two days? This is not a responsible balance between civil liberties and national security.

“From the very beginning of this debate, the Senator from South Carolina, the Senator from New Hampshire and I have maintained that the Administration should reserve its right to hold the suspect as an enemy combatant for the purposes of gathering intelligence. That was not the only option or even the ideal option. But in light of the Administration’s decision not to continue questioning the suspect under the public safety exception, the only option we are left with is lawfully questioning the suspect as a potential enemy combatant.

“The full extent of whether the suspect is linked to Al Qaeda or its associated forces remains unclear. The brother’s trip to Russia should certainly be the subject of an inquiry. And additional questioning is critical to making that clear. But today there is ample evidence that would allow the Administration to question the suspect for key intelligence. The consequence of not doing so is that our need to question this suspect for such intelligence is left solely at his discretion and willingness to cooperate. That is not a responsible approach to the national security of this country.

“Again, this is not to say that we must hold the suspect indefinitely in military detention – nor that the suspect must be, or should be, tried in a military tribunal. In both cases, there is plenty of precedent for holding a terrorism suspect as an enemy combatant for a limited time before moving him into the criminal justice system for the purposes of standing trial before in civilian court. What’s more, the Supreme Court has consistently upheld the legality and Constitutionality of this approach, as well as the ability to hold American citizens as enemy combatants.

“But ultimately, the broader question here is whether you view the United States as part of the battlefield in the global fight against terrorists. I know that some do not. I, however, do not know see how we can avoid this fact. Those who seek to attack us certainly view the homeland as part of the battlefield, indeed the central part.

“Of course there will always be, and should be, differences in how we handle events in the United States and events overseas, and differences in what rights are due to American citizens as opposed to foreign citizens. And yet, we cannot afford to build a wall between the fight against terrorists abroad and the fight against terrorists who are trying to attack us here at home, including when American citizens are involved in this fight, as some clearly are and will continue to be.

“Just because some don’t seem to want to grapple with the difficult, even unprecedented legal issues that this war presents does not mean they will cease to be real challenges. And if we pretend that the homeland is not part of this battle, I fear that it will only be a matter of time before we learn this lesson the hard way.”

 

 

 

 

 

CITY COUNCIL APPOINTS RESIDENTS TO SERVE ON BOARDS, COMMISSIONS 　 GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale City Council has appointed residents to serve on advisory boards and commissions, which assist the Council in making important policy decisions that impact the community. The new appointees are Michael Hernandez and Quentin Tolby, Aviation Advisory Commission; Michael Wood (vice chair) and Erik Flodin, Citizens Bicycle Advisory Committee; Vincent Abeyta (chair) and James Grose, Citizens Transportation Oversight Commission; Laura Hirsch (chair) and John Fallucca (vice chair), Commission On Persons With Disabilities; Arthur Swander, Jr. (chair), Cherie Hudson (vice chair), Ronald Jauregui and Gina Schmitz, Community Development Advisory Committee; and Jacoba Worsdell (chair), Nancy Lenox (vice chair), Marlene Versluis and Sharon Wixon, Historic Preservation Commission. Other appointees are Ann Scott Timmer and Randall Warner, Judicial Selection Advisory Board; Karen Aborne, Bernadette Bolognini and Paula Wilson, Library Advisory Board; Robert Portillo (chair), Mike Buettner (vice chair), David Moreno and Alexa Salas, Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission; Stephen Gilman, Personnel Board; Robert Petrone (chair), Bruce Larson (vice chair), Jamie Aldama, Steve Johnston, Al Lenox and Rod Williams, Planning Commission; and Diane Shoemake, Risk Management/Worker’s Compensation Trust Fund Board. 　 These volunteer citizen advisory groups research, study and discuss specific Glendale projects and issues and then forward their recommendations to the City Council. Board and commission members must reside in Glendale. Residents can request an application to serve on a citizen advisory group or obtain more information by calling the Council Office at 623-930-2249 or visiting www.glendaleaz.com/boardsandcommissions.

Fantastic Cup Cakes for Mother’s Day 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, May 5 at the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center, 5600 W. Union Hills Dr. Mother’s Day is quickly approaching and you can learn to make cupcakes and discover the most exciting and unusual ways to decorate them with fondant just for the occasion. Combine art and pastry recipes to make delicious and beautiful cupcakes. Impress your family and friends when you take them home. A $15 supply fee collected at class. Class registration is $31 (non-residents $37) Spanish available on request. For more information, call 623-930-4613.

Update - Phoenix Officer Involved Shooting   GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is releasing the names of the suspect and the Phoenix Police Officers involved in the officer involved shooting incident that occurred in a Glendale business complex parking lot in the 4400 block of W. Olive Avenue on Friday, April 19th, 2013. The three Phoenix Police Detectives who discharged their firearms at the scene were Detective David Thwing, a 12 year veteran officer, Detective Bill Behm, a 20 year veteran officer, and Detective Brandon Cozad, a 9 year veteran officer. The three detectives, all members of a fugitive apprehension squad, were attempting to contact a suspect who had several felony warrants. When the suspect was confronted by detectives in the parking lot, after identifying themselves as police officers, the suspect turned on them quickly, in an aggressive manner, and produced and pointed an object at them that had the appearance of a firearm. Fearing for their lives, all three Phoenix Police Detectives fired their duty weapons at the suspect striking the suspect. The suspect was treated and pronounced deceased at the scene by Glendale Fire. The suspect has been identified as 62 year old William Boyd Plant, a resident of Phoenix. There is no additional information to be released at this time.

 

 

 

WESTMARC Economic Development Summit 2013 By Bette Sharpe  - Glendale Daily Planet   Prominent West Valley government and business leaders attended the 2013 WESTMARC Economic Development Economic Summit held this year at the Renaissance Glendale on Thursday, April 17. The morning consisted of two panels. The first panel had the topic, "Why the West Valley" and the second panel’s topic was the "Future of the West Valley". WESTMACR is a West Valley public, private and educational partnership that promotes the West Valley, recruits new businesses and organizations, and enhances its members’ value. The West Valley now reaches beyond the White Tanks. Developing the "regionalism" for the entire West Valley will aid in accomplishing these goals. Members of the panel represented aerospace and defense, education, healthcare, manufacturing and renewable technologies. The five categories represented economically successful organizations in Arizona. All five business fields are poised to grow. The second panel told the audience that the West Valley (WV) was set to grow in both population and in business. A better job needs to be done in creating a brand for the West Valley, and planning for the much needed infrastructure that will be needed to support the projected growth. If WV cities, counties and state can partner with the private sector, there could be success. A major event for the entire valley, 2015 Super Bowl, will be a mini test for the amount of growth (population, housing, industry, healthcare, education, and business) projected for the West Valley. Jeff O’Malley, Vice Preside of Strategy and Business Developemtn, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. "We want to keep people healthy." Medical industry is shifting to wellness and prevention and consolidating health assets with joint use. In Glendale, "The University has invested over $265 million in its Glendale Campus and is now the home of Arizona’s largest medical school." The Glendale Campus on 156 acres with 2,900+ students. Midwestern University is planning to expand its Glendale Campus with the addition of the first college of veterinary medicine in the state of Arizona. Since coming to Glendale in 1995, Midwestern University has invested $265 million in the city. Barry Broome, President and & CEO Greater Phoenix Economic Council told the over 200 in attendance at the WESTMARC Economic Development Summit, to "do a better job representing our own reputation and brand." The West Valley needs to be prepared for the estimated one million new residents coming to the area over the next decade. John Krueger, Vice President, Business Development, Greater Phoenix Economic Council, said mentioned infrastructure again as an area that needs attention. "Infrastructure [is] one or our choke points". Michael Bidwell, Arizona Cardinals was the keynote speaker. He mentioned football, of course, as this is a big week for the NFL. The NFL fall schedule was announced at five o’clock on the 17th Later in the week it is time for the draft. The first round draft is April 25th at 8 p. m. EDT. (According of the NFL web site, the Arizona Cardinals are number 7 in the Draft Order.) Twelve new players have been added to the Arizona Cardinals roster. Talks between the City of Glendale and then Cardinals, are still on-going, however any announcements of the Cardinals Spring Training Camp moving to Glendale has to wait. Preseason starts on Friday, August 9th. The regular season begins with an away game on September 8th. Twelve new players have been added to the Arizona Cardinals roster, "we’re pretty excited", Bidwell said. After football Bidwell changed gears and talked about how "everyone needs to be on the same page." Bidwell told the audience that there were things that needed to be worked on, "we need to get out there and tell our story", he said. There a lot of positive and good thing have happened in the West Valley. He is a board member of the ACA (Arizona Commerce Authority) which is an economic development organization set up by Governor Brewer to strengthen Arizona’s economy by recruiting out-of-state companies to come to Arizona. The ACA works with the WESTMARCS of the state. Bidwell suggested that WESTMARC and west Valley cities formalize activities to promote the West Valley and therefore Arizona to northern and southern California. One objective would be to encourage light manufacturing to the West Valley. "We all win when one of the cities gets a new company and high paying jobs". Mr. Bidwell used the Cardinals as an example. Employees of the Arizona Cardinals and their families live and spend throughout the valley. Bidwell stressed the concept of regionalism. "When one city gets something we all benefit" again, Bidwell. "Just because the city got the training facility all the surrouning cities benefit from it." Bidwell encouraged members of the audience to work together for positive outcomes. We need to start solving the areas infrastructure problems that will most quickly impact existing and prospective companies. To do this, will takes "strong public sector leadership teamed up with strong private sector leadership". Working together will get things done. WESTMARC is the perfect place to bring people together to solve issues. The West Valley needs to tell its own story. And one of the big stories or "a great opportunity" to promote is coming in about 20 months, the 2015 XLIX Super Bowl. "We are going to do this together and we’re going to put our best foot forward as we host this game." "We were the It place for the whole week". In summary, this is a big week for football. The fall schedule was released on Thursday, and the Draft begins on April 25th. Michael Bidwell is excited about the new players and his team. Where the Cardinal’s training facility will relocation to, is still in discussion. The West Valley should work with and through WESTMARC to recruit new businesses to Arizona and to the West Valley and to set regular or formal meetings with the ACA. City, County and State leaders need to work together to do more. This is important to improve the infrastructure in the West Valley. Finally, we are in this together. One big opportunity for the West Valley is coming in about 20 months, the XLIX Super Bowl.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8935. Panel: Why the West Valley at the WESTMARC Economic Development Summit 2013. Panelist are seated in the order of their presentations. Panel: Why the West Valley MODERATOR: Dan Davis, Economic Development Director, City of Avondale, AEROSPANCE AND DEFENSE-- Joe Marvin, President Prime Solutions Group EDUCATION--Christine Clouse, Director of Development, Midwestern University HEALTHCARE-- Jeff O’Malley, Vice Preside of Strategy and Business Developemtn, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. MANUFACTURING-- Bill Lawrie, Corporate Manage of Manufacturing Engineeing, Sub-Zero RENEWABLE/CLEAN TECHONOLOGIES-- Earl Wiggins, Vice Preside Ultracapacitor Operations –Maxwell Technologies Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8984. Nate Nathan, Nathan & Associates presented a PowerPoint at the 2013 WESTMARC Summitt. The West Valley is ready to grow in population and the existing number of houses probably will not be able to meet the need for new homes. Panel: Future of the West Valley MODERATOR: Harry Paxton, Economic Develop[ment Manage, City of Goodyear, PANELISTS: John Krueger, Vice Preside, Business Development Greater Phoenix Economic Council Nate Nathan, President and Designated Broker, Nather & Associates; Keith Watkins, Senior Vice President , Arizona Commerce Authority Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9013 Michael Bidwell, Arizona Cardinals, was the keynote speaker. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9020. Michael Bidwell shakes hands with Glendale Councilmember Manny Martinez at WESTMARC’s 2013 Economic Development Summit held at the Renaissance Glendale Hotel - Councilmember Yvonne Knaack looks on... Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9015. Art Othom (Peoria) asks Mr. Bidwell some of the 2015 Superbowl resources coming to the West Valley, primarily to Peoria. The old model of the legacy gifts to the community has run its course. About 1.5 million dollars from the 2008 Super Bowl was given to the Girls & Boys Clubs in Glendale and the West Valley. Mr. Bidwell said he was certain there would be other impacts from this game; referring to the 2015 Super Bowl which will be played in Glendale.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9016. Michelle Alcantar, Director, Community Partnerships, Glendale Community College attended the 2013 WESTMARC Economic Summit on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8987. Tom Fannin, Michelle Rider, President & CEO WESTMARC, and Nate Nathan, President and Designated Broker of Nathan & Associates at WESTMARC 2013 Economic Summit in Glendale at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa. Cardinals Draft Day Party Dates & Event Hours Thursday, April 25, 4:00PM - 9:00PM (Cardinals Draft Day Party) Friday, April 26, 4:00PM - 11:00PM Saturday, April 27, 11:00AM - 11:00PM Sunday, April 28, 12:00PM - 8:00PM Ticket Information Thursday, April 25 - Free Admission (Cardinals Draft Day Party) Friday, April 26 - General Admission tickets required for entry Saturday, April 27 - General Admission tickets required for entry Sunday, April 28 – General Admission tickets required for entry General Admission Ticket Prices (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) $6.00 - Adult, General Admission $2.00 - Seniors, General Admission (60 & Older) $2.00 - Active & Retired Military, General Admission Free - Children, General Admission (12 & Under)     Collings Foundation – Wings of Freedom Tour By Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet   The Wings of Freedom Tour was at the Glendale Municipal Airport April 17 -19, 2013 at Glendale Aero Service 6841 N. Glen Harbor Blvd. The Wings of Freedom Tour travels the nation a flying tribute to the flight crews who flew them, the ground crews who maintained them, the workers who built them, the soldiers, sailors and airmen they helped protect; and the citizens and families that share the freedom that they helped preserve. The B-17 & B-24 were the backbone of the American effort during the war from 1942 to 1945 and were famous for their ability to sustain damage and still accomplish the mission. Despite the risks of anti-aircraft fire, attacking enemy fighters, and the harrowing environment of sub-zero temperatures, many B-17s and B-24s safely brought their crews home. The P-51 Mustang was affectionately known as the bombers "Little Friend" – saving countless crews from attacking axis fighters. After the war, many aircraft were scrapped for their raw aluminum to rebuild a nation in post-war prosperity and therefore very few were spared. The rarity of the B-17, B-24 & P-51 - and their importance to telling the story of WWII is why the Collings Foundation continues to fly and display the aircraft nationwide. At each location we encourage local veterans and their families to visit and share their experiences and stories with the public. For aviation enthusiasts, the tour provides opportunity for the museum to come to the visitor and not the other way around! Visitors can find out more by visiting our website at www.collingsfoundation.org.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8784. The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress Touching down with University of Phoenix Stadium in the background .  (The left  wheel is the only one touching initially!)   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8825. The guns and nose art of the "Nine O Nine" WWII Heavy Bomber. 　 Ed Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 09647.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8860. North American P-51 Mustang pilot Wayne Patenaude and the "Betty Jane".   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8860. North American P-51 Mustang pilot Wayne Patenaude and the "Betty Jane". 　 WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress "Nine O Nine" WWII Heavy Bomber Consolidated B-24 Liberator "Witchcraft" WWII Heavy Bomber P-51 Mustang Me 262 is very rare flying replica aircraft with unparalleled authenticity from the original legendary WWII German jet. The B-17 is one of only 8 in flying condition in the United States The B-24J and Full Dual Control P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the World. Visitors were invited to explore the aircraft inside and out. $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 is requested for access to up-close viewing and tours through the inside of the aircraft. WWII Veterans can tour through the aircraft at no cost Visitors may also experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to actually take a 30-minute flight aboard these rare aircraft. Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $425 per person. Get some "stick time" in the world’s greatest fighter! P-51 flights are $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. Flights available in the Me 262.     Did you Celebrate National Library Week - April 14-20, 2013? Celebrate National Library Week 2013 with the theme, Communities matter @ your library National Library Week Honorary Chair: Caroline Kennedy   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeJcLfJXKfs&feature=share&list=UUxfXOQrSTCTgY4goSKdzvGA use the above link if you are sent this in email. VISIT YOUR LIBRARY EVERY WEEK! Be glad we still have our libraries...  and be ready to fight  for them!

 

 

2012 Fire Awards Ceremony The 26th Annual Glendale Fire Awards Ceremony, Arrowhead Country Club Thursday, April 18, 2012   The evening program began with the welcome and invocation given by Michael Young, Glendale Fire Public Information Officer. Javier Soto, 3TV reporter was the master of ceremonies for the evening. Mayor Jerry Weiers and Fire Chief Mark Burdick each made welcoming comments.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9054 Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9055. Presentation of the Colors Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9062. CERT/Safety Educator Nikki Colletti CERT/Safety Educator of the Year (holding trophy)

The 2012 Firefighter of the Year Award   The 2012 Firefighter of the Year Award was awarded this evening to Fire Captain Joseph Hester With Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick to the left.. The annual awards ceremony was held this year at the Arrowhead Country Club. Congratulations! (more  story and photos to  follow!)       Volunteer of the Year Awards Crisis Response Volunteer of the Year Dan Younkin, CR Team Member   CERT/Safety Educator of the Year Nikki Colletti, CERT/Safety Educator Fire Cadet of the Year Chris Furgeson, Fire Cadet Volunteer of the Year Randall Brown, GRPSTC Volunteer Exceptional Merit Award Sworn Profession Service Award Marsha Brantern, Firefighter Gil Mantzey, Firefighter Community Service Award Randy Rodriquez, Firefighter Life Saving Award Darrell Fletcher (?) Call of the Year From Engine 151 Johnny Chester, Firefighter Courtney Dunlap, Firefighter Mike O’Neil, Firefighter Scott Schwegler, Firefighter Chief Don Heatwole Career Achievement Award Patty Frey, Deputy Chief Fire Chief’s Award for Excellence Lynette Jelinek, Fire Communication Outreach Coordinator Michael Patten, Fire Engineer Firefighter of the Year Award Joseph Hester, Fire Captain Special Recognition Jill Ellet, Arrowhead Hospital Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 9058.

 

 

Spice Lab Seized in Glendale by Special Investigations Detectives   　 Glendale, Ariz. – Detectives from the Glendale Police Department’s Special Investigations Unit obtained information on a large amount of "Spice" being manufactured and potentially sold at Pronto Mart, located near 59th Avenue and Missouri. Most of the information came through Arizona Tax Revenue Officers performing a routine inspection at Pronto Mart. The inspectors told Glendale investigators they saw evidence of what they believed to be manufacturing in the two back rooms of the business. Based upon the information received by the Glendale SIU Detectives, a search warrant was authored, signed by a judge and served at the store Tuesday afternoon, 4/16/13. Once inside the business, detectives located and seized nearly 6,000 viles containing what is believed to be the Dangerous Drug known as Spice, along with large containers of raw material weighing almost 250 pounds that had reportedly been sprayed with the chemical "A.K.B.", which is the illegal active ingredient that produces the high when the substance is smoked. Admissions from the store manager, 39 yr old Abrahim Sayegh, were that he had been purchasing the herb from California and purchasing the "A.K.B." from China for the last six months. Sayegh also admitted to manufacturing "Spice" to sell to other stores in the area, as well as online sales. House Bill 2327, dealing with the Dangerous Drug Spice, was signed into law by Governor Brewer on 4/3/13 and became effective that same day through emergency order. The language in the new law states that any synthetic drug used to mimic THC or Methamphetamine is illegal. Due to the fact that Abrahim Sayegh was not only believed to be selling, but also believed to be manufacturing Spice, felony charges are being submitted on Sayegh for Possession of Dangerous Drugs For Sale, and Manufacturing Dangerous Drugs.

Photographs taken by investigators during the service of the search warrant. Photographs taken by investigators during the service of the search warrant.

 

 

 

COUNCILMEMBER GARY SHERWOOD HOSTING SAHUARO DISTRICT MEETING THURSDAY, APRIL 25 　 GLENDALE, Ariz. – Councilmember Gary Sherwood is hosting a community meeting for residents living in the Sahuaro District at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25 at Ironwood High School, 6051 W. Sweetwater Avenue. The meeting will be held in the school’s library. Sherwood will be joined by Community and Economic Development Executive Director Brian Friedman, Interim Police Chief Debora Black and Assistant Code Compliance Director Paul Hernandez. In addition to providing updates on Sahuaro District and citywide projects and activities, the Glendale representatives will be available to answer questions from residents. The Sahuaro District is bounded roughly from Union Hills Drive to Cactus Road. Citizens can view the citywide council district map for more detail at www.glendaleaz.com/CityCouncil/districtmap.cfm. Refreshments will be served. For more information or to request special accommodations, call 623-930-2249.

The Wings of Freedom Tour of the WWII Vintage Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator and North American P-51 Mustang and German Me 262 fighter jet Announce Unique Display in Glendale at Glendale Municipal Airport from April 17 to April 19 In honor of our WWII Veterans ~ The Collings Foundation’s Wings of Freedom Tour Brings Extremely Rare Bomber and Fighter Aircraft for Local Living History Display as Part of 110-city Nationwide Tour WHAT: Participating in the Collings Foundation’s WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress “Nine O Nine” WWII Heavy Bomber, Consolidated B-24 Liberator “Witchcraft” WWII Heavy Bomber and P-51 Mustang fighter, will fly into Glendale Municipal Airport in Glendale, AZ for a visit from April 17 to April 19. This is a rare opportunity to visit, explore, and learn more about these unique and rare treasures of aviation history. The B-17 is one of only 8 in flying condition in the United States, the B-24J and Full Dual Control P-51C Mustang are the sole remaining examples of their type flying in the World. The Me 262 is very rare flying replica aircraft with unparalleled authenticity from the original legendary WWII German jet. Visitors are invited to explore the aircraft inside and out - $12 for adults and $6 for children under 12 is requested for access to up-close viewing and tours through the inside of the aircraft. WWII Veterans can tour through the aircraft at no cost. Discounted rates for school groups. Visitors may also experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to actually take a 30-minute flight aboard these rare aircraft. Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are $425 per person. Get some “stick time” in the world’s greatest fighter! P-51 flights are $2,200 for a half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. Flights available in the Me 262. Certain prerequisites required. For reservations and information on flight experiences call 800-568-8924. WHERE: The WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR will be on display at Glendale Municipal Airport in Glendale located at Glendale Aero Service 6841 N. Glen Harbor Blvd. WHEN: The WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR will arrive at Glendale Municipal Airport at approximately 1:30 p.m. on April 17 and will be on display at Glendale Aero Service at Glendale Municipal Airport. Hours of ground tours and display are: 2:00 PM through 5:00 PM on Wednesday, April 17; 9:00 AM through 5:00 PM on Thursday, April 18; 9:00 AM through 12:00 PM on Friday, April 19; . The 30-minute flight experiences are normally scheduled before and after the ground tour times above. WHO: The Collings Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit educational foundation devoted to organizing “living history” events that allows people to learn more about their heritage and history through direct participation. The Nationwide WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR is in its 24th year and visits an average of 110 cities in over 35 states annually. Since its start, tens of millions of people have seen the B-17, B-24 & P-51 display at locations everywhere. The WINGS OF FREEDOM tour is one of the most extraordinary and unique interactive traveling historical displays of its kind. WHY: The WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR travels the nation a flying tribute to the flight crews who flew them, the ground crews who maintained them, the workers who built them, the soldiers, sailors and airmen they helped protect; and the citizens and families that share the freedom that they helped preserve. The B-17 & B-24 were the backbone of the American effort during the war from 1942 to 1945 and were famous for their ability to sustain damage and still accomplish the mission. Despite the risks of anti-aircraft fire, attacking enemy fighters, and the harrowing environment of sub-zero temperatures, many B-17s and B-24s safely brought their crews home. The P-51 Mustang was affectionately known as the bombers “Little Friend” – saving countless crews from attacking axis fighters. After the war, many aircraft were scrapped for their raw aluminum to rebuild a nation in post-war prosperity and therefore very few were spared. The rarity of the B-17, B-24 & P-51 - and their importance to telling the story of WWII is why the Collings Foundation continues to fly and display the aircraft nationwide. At each location we encourage local veterans and their families to visit and share their experiences and stories with the public. For aviation enthusiasts, the tour provides opportunity for the museum to come to the visitor and not the other way around! Visitors can find out more by visiting our website at www.collingsfoundation.org.

GLENDALE CELEBRATES ARBOR DAY WITH TREE PLANTING GLENDALE, Ariz. – The city of Glendale will celebrate Arbor Day on Thursday, April 25, at Desert Valley Park, 12900 N. 61st Ave. Glendale’s Arbor Day features the theme, Planting Our Future Together. To help celebrate, third and fourth graders from Desert Valley Elementary School will bring posters and poems they created. All the posters will be on display, while a few select poems will be read by the children who wrote them. Along with the children’s participation, Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers will read the city’s Arbor Day Proclamation and Kyle McCatty of the Arizona State Forestry Division will present the Tree City USA plaque to city officials. Glendale has been designated a Tree City USA for the past 17 years. The Tree City USA program provides direction, assistance, attention and national recognition for urban and community forestry programs in America. Councilmember Gary Sherwood and Patricia DiRoss with Salt River Project will also make a few comments during the ceremony. Following the dignitary remarks and student poems, five acacia pendula trees will be planted with student participation. Refreshments will be serviced. Salt River Project, the Glendale Woman’s Club and Glendale Garden Club provided contributions for the ceremony. For more information on Arbor Day and Glendale’s Parks and Recreation Division, visit www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation. GLENDALE SWIM LESSON REGISTRATION BEGINS MAY 6 Glendale, Ariz. –– Learning to swim is one of the most important water safety precautions. Glendale will be offering swim lessons this summer at two locations. Registration for the swim lessons will begin for Glendale residents on Monday, May 6, and for non-Glendale residents on Thursday, May 9. Glendale’s swim lessons focus on water safety along with learning how to swim. Both group and private swim lessons are available. Group lessons meet for eight 30-minute classes held Monday through Friday and are $26 for residents and $49 for non-residents. Private swim lessons are scheduled as a two 30-minute lesson package. The package is $35 for Glendale residents and $42 for non-residents. Classes begin the week of June 3 and are held at the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center, 5600 W. Union Hills Dr., and the Rose Lane Aquatics Center, 5003 W. Marlette Ave. Glendale follows the Starfish Swimming program, which uses a comprehensive swimming instruction and water safety curriculum for all ages and ability levels. Eleven different group swim lesson classes are available for participants starting as early as six months old. Private lessons are available for ages 5 to adult. A complete description of classes, times and dates available can be found in the Splashbook available at www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation, at the Glendale libraries, the Glendale Adult Center and the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center. There are three ways to register for swim lessons: online, by phone and in person. Those wanting to register May 6-8 or to receive resident rates will need to bring proof of Glendale residency, such as a water bill. To register online, visit www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation and click on “Registration” under the Quick Links heading on the left side of the page. To register by phone, call 623-930-2820 or 623-930-4600. To register in person, visit the Parks & Recreation Office in the Glendale Adult Center, 5970 W. Brown St., or the Foothills Recreation & Aquatic Center, 5600 W. Union Hills Dr. For more information on Glendale’s aquatics programs, call 623-930-2041 or visit www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation.

 

PAPA'S ON THE GO MON-FRI 7:30 AM - 6 PM  /  SAT 11 AM - 6 PM APRIL 15 - APRIL 19
"FREE BISCOTTI" WITH PURCHASE OF COFFEE  - ENTER TO WIN A GIFT BASKET
7146 N. 58TH AVE. Glendale, Az. (623) 915-4438 Nestled behind "The Country Maiden Store"

 

 

Si Se Puede! - Si Se Puede! By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet       Photo by Ed Sharpe/ Glendale Daily Planet   During his talk before the closing prayer at the Cesar Chavez Breakfast at the Glendale Civic Center Glendale Councilperson Sammy Chavira (Yucca District); tell us about years ago bringing home 'this book' (he held up a notebook with a United Farm Workers logo on it) Sammy had gotten it when he was involved in the original startup of the Cesar Chazez Foundation in Phoenix... Serenity his daughter of 3.5 years of age was curious about the UFW logo and Sammy explained it to her and also told her about the phrase Si Se Puede!.. (Yes We Can!) that was under the logo...which Serenity then applied to her 1 year old sister Amnesty who was struggling to learn trying to walk! The story continued on in time... Little Serenity's grandfather had cancer 2 years before he even told his family about it... brain, kidney and lung cancer eating away at him before he even started chemotherapy . Finally he broke down and went for help and ... he would give himself his own chemotherapy shots ... and Serenity would stand over him and pray at night for Jesus to help her grand dad.... she would also tell him.... Si Se Puede!.... Si Se Puede! (Yes We Can! Yes We Can!)... to lift his spirits.    Photo by Ed Sharpe/ Glendale Daily Planet
GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL SELECTS DICK BOWERS AS ACTING CITY MANAGER Glendale, Ariz. –– The Glendale City Council has appointed Dick Bowers to serve as acting city manager during the recruitment process for a permanent city manager. Bowers brings more than 30 years of public service experience, including 10 years as the city manager of Scottsdale. For the past several years Bowers has worked with the city of Glendale on various projects, including establishing council guidelines for meetings, procedures and executive management performance evaluations as well as the development and implementation of the city’s Centerline downtown redevelopment project. In Scottsdale one of Bowers most significant accomplishments included yielding a coveted AAA bond rating for the city. The International City Manager’s Association awarded Bowers with the “Outstanding Management Innovator” award for creating an environment which fostered teamwork, excellence and innovation. Bowers has also received the Arizona Republic’s “Vision Weaver Award,” the Institute for Community Cultural Diversity’s “Diversity Leadership Award” and the highest honor for an Arizona city manager, the “Jack DeBolske” award from the Arizona/City County Management Association. Since 2001 Bowers has been the president of R.A. Bowers & Associates, a consulting firm specializing in strategic plans, coaching and development for public and private organizations. He serves on the boards of Free Arts of Arizona, the Arizona Citizens for the Arts, the Downtown Phoenix Partnership and is also the president and CEO of both the Herberger Theatre Center and the Phoenix Boys Choir. Bowers has a Bachelors Degree in English, Masters Degree in Public Service and is an adjunct professor at Arizona State University and guest lecturer at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management. ### GLENDALE CITY COUNCIL SELECTS NICHOLAS DIPIAZZA AS ACTING CITY ATTORNEY Glendale, Ariz. –– At the March 26 Glendale City Council meeting, Nicholas DiPiazza was appointed acting city attorney. DiPiazza has been with the city of Glendale since 2005, most recently as the city’s Chief Deputy City Attorney overseeing the civil litigation division, the prosecutor’s office and serving as general counsel to various city departments. DiPiazza’s background includes a combination of municipal law in Arizona and New York, private practice and military service. In 2010, he was appointed a Judge Pro Tem in Maricopa County. After retiring as a U.S. Navy Captain in 2004, DiPiazza was appointed a regional planner for the Arizona Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and was later promoted to Assistant Director. During his active military service, DiPiazza served in various capacities including Deputy Director of Security and Law Enforcement, Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington, D.C. and Director of Homeland Security for U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk, Va. The U.S. Navy awarded DiPiazza several honors, including the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. DiPiazza was also elected to the Mt. Sinai, New York Board of Education where he served as the board’s president for 12 years. DiPiazza has a Bachelor’s Degree from the State University of New York, an M.B.A. from Adelphi University and his law degree is from Fordham University Law School.
STATEMENT BY SENATOR JOHN McCAIN ON THE PASSING OF EDDIE BASHA Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) today released the following statement on the passing of Eddie Basha: “I was saddened to learn of the passing yesterday of a true Arizona icon, Eddie Basha. Eddie’s remarkable contributions to Arizona’s business and civic life established him as one of the finest citizens that our state has produced. At the age of 31, Eddie took over his family’s business and over the course of 40 years, he built it into an Arizona institution. But it was his compassion and generosity that distinguished Eddie, as he raised millions for charitable causes and took a leading role in advocating state education initiatives. In politics, Eddie and I didn’t always agree, but I always knew that he was in it for exactly right reasons, and he always had my deepest respect. Cindy and I send our condolences to the entire Basha family.”
Grijalva guest speaker at César Chávez breakfast The West Valley Foundation (formerly the known as the Glendale Chamber Foundation) hosts the 10th annual César Chávez Breakfast celebrating diversity in the West Valley, 7:30 a.m. March 29 at Glendale Civic Center, featuring keynote speaker U.S. Rep. Rául M. Grijalva, from Arizona’s 3rd legislative district. The event commemorates the life and legacy of César Chávez and recognizes those who contribute to creating a diverse and inclusive community. The breakfast will include the César Chávez Diversity Awards, presented in three categories: Diversity in Business: Mr. Joe Pompa, Owner, La Perla Café; Diversity in Education: Dr. Charles Landis, Retired Superintendent, Tolleson High School; and Diversity in Community Advocacy: Daniel Martinez, Founder and Director, Fiesta Mexicana Dance Co. Proceeds from the event provide grants for K-12 schools and organizations promoting tolerance and diversity and scholarships to high school students pursuing a college education. Tickets for the breakfast are $35 per person or $300 per table and may be purchased from the Glendale Chamber of Commerce. The event is open to the public. This is always a popular event so get tickets  early. Event sponsors include: Arizona Cardinals, Arizona Public Service, Blue Cross Blue Shield, CenturyLink, City of Avondale, City of Peoria, City of Tolleson, Glendale Community College, Southwest Ambulance, and the West Valley Resort.
DEAFNATION / PHOENIX 2013 - Saturday March 23, 2013 - Phoenix Civic Center   Photo - Glendale Daily Planet Ed Sharpe Director and Lead Archivist for SMECC and Sherri Collins, the Executive Director of the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing discussing SMECC Display on Telecommunications History of Deaf and the Hard of Hearing. Ed attended DEAFNATION/PHOENIX 2013 to gather input and volunteers to assist on the History Project at SMECC in Glendale. Photo - Glendale Daily Planet DEAFNATION / PHOENIX 2013 - STANDING ROOM ONLY! =========== INFO ON DEFNATION EXPOS       FREE ADMISSION: EXPO – ENTERTAINMENT – WORKSHOPS DeafNation Expo is the foremost touring trade show for, by, and about deaf people. DeafNation provides exhibitions and entertainment around the United States at no charge to the public. Our philosophy is that free admission brings a diversity of attendees who can share our culture, needs, language, and information. The DeafNation Expo began in 2003, starting with 6 Expos. Today, DeafNation hosts 10-15 Expos annually, having attracted in excess of 800,000 attendees since. More info at: http://
Folk & Heritage Festival 2013 By Bette Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet Over 150 musicians on 9 stages over performed, informed and entertained over the two-day event held Saturday and Sunday, March 23rd -24th at Sahuaro Ranch Park in Glendale. This annual event draws crowds from around the Valley. Music styles ranged from Folk and Bluegrass to Cowboy Poetry and Storytelling. There were jam sessions and over 50 workshops and blacksmith demonstrations. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8359. Gavan Wieser performed folk and original songs on the Guest House Porch stage on Sunday afternoon, March 24. Sunday was the second day of the two-day event held at Sahuaro Rand Park, 9802 N. 59th Avenue in Glendale. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8368. Sarah Barchas plays guitar and sings songs and tells stories about Arizona on the Olive Grove East lawn. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8378. Jason Bruso on banjo. 　 Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8396. C *Steve performs his "Johnny Cash Tribute". It was a crowd pleaser, at the Maintenance shed stage on Sunday. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8400. Bill Burke is one of the instructors who were demonstrating some simple techniques as part of the Sunday’s Workshop series, "Clawhammer Banjo Styles". They made it look easy. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8409. Joe Bethancourt and Bill Burke at the "Clawhammer Banjo Styles" workshop held on the Pump House Lawn. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8417. Don Flemons, member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops, is one of the instructors at Sunday’s banjo workshop. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8419. Bill Burke and Frank Coon demonstrate some easy one finger, more or less, techniques for members of the audience gathered around on the Pump House Lawn stage. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8420. Joe Bethancourt, if you have spent any amount of time in Arizona you know who this man is. He is probably one of the best clawhammer banjo players in the nation. The clawhammer style is a rhythmic strumming whereas bluegrass is more of a plucking style. Clawhammer style of playing uses the thumb and the nail of one finger. The "left hand is the one in charge", reminded those in the audience on the Pump House Lawn. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8382. Laney Greynolds and JC Scott, are an acoustic rock singing/songwriting duo from Arizona. They have a new CD due out this month, Heart of Steel. Their voices blend magically. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 8393. Annie Moscow performed original works Sunday, March 24 at the Folk & Heritage Festival held this weekend in Glendale at Sahuaro Ranch Park.
MOVED AT LAST...    This is the correct way... at  last!      -- then chipping away at right---- -- Many people had  to 'study' it...----   -- Ready to lift it once  free... ---- -- After removal of artwork and the pedestal ----	Before--- Fire personnel facing forward. Never did  hear why this was in  the  wrong position have you? Glendale, AZ - Public Safety Memorial The Glendale Public Safety Memorial was dedicated on Jan. 4, 2011. It is located in the Glendale Civic Center Plaza, 5750 W. Glenn Drive. The memorial honors two police officers and one firefighter killed in the line of duty in Glendale. The names of the fallen include: Fire Engineer Lester Hillis September 7, 1974 Sergeant Pat Campbell September 22, 1985 Officer Anthony Holly February 19, 2007 Officer Bradley R. Jones October 29, 2011 The 15-foot-tall bronze memorial features two police officers and two firefighters rescuing a child while connected by an eternal flame. Behind the statue is a 28-foot-long granite wall with plaques of honor with background information on Hillis, Campbell and Holly. The artist for the memorial is Hai Ying Wu. Coordinators of the memorial include: The Glendale Public Safety Memorial Committee, Glendale Arts Commission, Glendale Police Department, Glendale Fire Department and Glendale Marketing/Communications Department.

 

 

before----- then chipping away at right----

 

 

 

FIRE OPS 101 (preliminary release check back f0r more!)  Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers, City Council Members, Interim City Manager, participating media members and the Glendale Fire Department join up for a one day fireground operations orientation that will include participants suiting up in firefighter protective clothing, donning self-contained breathing apparatus, and actually going inside a real fire to experience the environment in which fire fighters work, in addition to other emergency situations. The simulations will provide the participants an opportunity to see and feel what firefighters deal with on a daily basis. Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7425. Councilmember Chavira keeps an eye on Glendale Mayor Weier (orange helmet) as he uses power saw to open a vent in the ceiling of the demonstration four story building.  The training exercise is one of five in the Fire Ops 101 event on Friday, February 23, at the Glendale Regional Public Safety Training Center, 11550 W. Glendale Avenue.  This exercise is the second of five and involves a demonstration of ladder and saw operations on burn tower and roof top.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7536. Firefighter Mike Patten instructs Mayor Weiers in the Hands Only CPR.     Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7498. Recognize this person?  You might not have.  He is Acting Glendale City Manager Horatio Skeete.  He is one of city officials participating in the Fire Ops 101 exercises on Friday, February 23, 2012.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7357. Councilmember Ian Hugh suits up for the Fire Operations 101 training and demonstrations on Friday, February 23, 2013.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7393. Glendale Firefighter Scott Ernster is working with City Councilmembers Sherwood and Hugh about the training and demonstrations on the third floor of the burn tower.  Included in this exercise was an introduction to truck operations, a demonstration of ladder and saw operations on the burn tower and roof tops, a demonstration of repelling operations ( this was an optional exercise) and an overview to truck operations.  The firefighters and paramedics took time to answer questions.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7457 Steve Heenan, Glendale Technical Rescue (red helmet) will assist Mayor Weiers over the edge of the four story training facility and safely to the ground.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no.7394. Deputy Chief Montgomery and in firefighter gear, Mayor Weiers.  To insure safety for everyone, the mayor’s mask is labeled with his name.  What you cannot feel is the closeness of the room.  The room is getting hotter and there is more smoke.  This is a one day training exercise, but the scenario is based on what real firefighters train to do.   Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 7539. Glendale Paramedic D. Wintrow has his hand on Automated External Defibrillator or AED.  Mayor Weiers is using Hands Only CRP.  Councilmember Sammy Chavira observes.  To his right is Mike Patten, Glendale Fire Department.                     Just a few photos more  later! video too! Here is our whole fire 101 group! Photo Glendale Daily Planet Friday, February 22, 2013 Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers, City Council Members, Interim City Manager, participating media members and the Glendale Fire Department join up for a one day fireground operations orientation that will include participants suiting up in firefighter protective clothing, donning self-contained breathing apparatus, and actually going inside a real fire to experience the environment in which fire fighters work, in addition to other emergency situations. The simulations will provide the participants an opportunity to see and feel what firefighters deal with on a daily basis.   Glendale Coucilman Sam Chavira and Mayor Jerry Weiers at Fire 101 venting an attic with chainsaw! Photo by Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet   Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet / KKAT-IPTV with livestream rig. This little handful will stream to the internet, shoot HD video and also shoot stills .... ALL AT ONCE if needed! - Photo by Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet   Ed Sharpe (Left) streaming live fire with Deputy Chief Chuck Montgomery with Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers in orange helmet  Photo by Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet       L  to R  Deputy Glendale Fire Chief Chuck Montgomery,  Glendale Battalion Chief Patrick  Becker, and Daisy Mountain Fire Chief Mark Nichols prepare  an previously crashed airplane training prop that is  used at the west valley  regional training center to go to  Daily  for a simulation outside the  federal prison  for a training exercise.