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MOCK AIRLINE CRASH

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Glendale Firefighters were on hand to offer assistance and instruction to over 140 Medical Science and Sports Medicine students of Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale as they perform triage, assessment and treatment to mass casualty victims in a MOCK plane crash exercise.

 Over 30 drama students with creative make-up and clothing acted as mass casualty victims. The medical science and sports medicine students were split into groups and guided by Glendale Firefighters while they performed their newly acquired medical skills. Glendale Fire Department Halo-151 was used to simulate air transport of one of the patients.

“Most of the students who took part in this exercise will seek careers in the medical profession and this is a great way to give them practical experience with the help of Glendale Firefighters,” said Science Teacher Sean Romero.

“We commend Mountain Ridge High School for arranging this exercise for these students,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. We are especially pleased with the high school students who took the time and initiative to learn these important life-saving skills,” Chief Burdick added.

The drama students  - Click on this to see large photo- enable popups-  also you can right click and save a large version!

2 photos… Ed  Sharpe for Glendale Daily Planet / KKAT-IPTV
records footage of  the  Mock Airline Crash at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale Arizona for a 3-D   News special on Glendale Fire Department Community Training Involvement
Photos by  Daniel  Valenzuela PIO Glendale Fire Department

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Photo above - Ed  Sharpe for Glendale Daily Planet / KKAT-IPTV   records footage of  an interview with Glendale Fire Department PIO Daniel T. Valenzuela at the  Mock Airline Crash at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale Arizona for a 3-D   News special on Glendale Fire Department Community Training Involvement 
Photo by Glendale Fire Captain John Walter II.

GLENDALE POLICE SEEK CHILD ABDUCTION SUSPECT

 

　

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Detectives from the Glendale Police Department are seeking information on the identity of a man regarding a child abduction.

On Thursday, September 17th, at about 6:00 p.m. the suspect approached and physically removed a seven-year old victim from the front of her residence. He then placed her in his dark colored two-door sedan with red lighting on the front and rear. The subject then drove the child around two complexes in the area and let her go. The suspect was described as white male in his thirties.

A composite sketch of the suspect is attached above.

Anyone with information about this subject or the vehicle is asked to call the Glendale Police Department tip line at 623-930-3745 or email: sex_crimes@glendaleaz.com

 

 

GLENDALE POLICE SEEK ARMED ROBBERY SUSPECT

 

　

GLENDALE, Ariz. The Glendale Police Department needs your help in identifying a suspect who committed an armed robbery at the Walgreens, located at 22280 N. 67th Avenue (67th/Deer Valley).

On 9/18/2009 at about 1:00 p.m. the suspect contacted an employee in a store isle and used a gun to force her to the door leading to the pharmacy. The door was opened and the suspect entered the pharmacy. He then ordered the pharmacist to give him prescription drugs and fled in the listed vehicle.

The suspect is described as a w/m 20-30, 601 190, top of head shaved. He was seen wearing a black, pin-striped suit, and sunglasses. The vehicle is described as a white 90’s Chevy single cab stock pick-up truck.

Video surveillance is available for pick-up at the Glendale Police Department located at 6835 N. 57 Drive.

Anyone with information about this crime or the suspect is asked to call the Glendale Police Department 623-930-3000 or Silent Witness 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377).

Erick O’Donnell - Special to the Glendale Daily Planet - 9 September 2009

            The rate of property crime in Glendale fell significantly this year in comparison to last, owing possibly to the recession and to aggressive police enforcement.

The total number of crimes against property dropped 6.68 percent from the beginning of this year until Sept. 5 compared to the same period last year, according to a weekly report by the Glendale Police Department. Reports of stolen motor vehicles have dropped 27.1 percent, the greatest decrease, while incidents of theft and arson slowed by 3.2 percent and 7.14 percent, respectively.

Burglary has been an exception, rising 2.17 percent.

A recent partnership between Glendale police and the Maricopa County prosecutor may have contributed to the criminal decline, said Sgt. Jim Cunningham, a police spokesman. Within the past year, police have worked with the prosecutor’s office to provide the information it needs to win longer sentences for perpetrators of property crimes, Cunningham said.

This effort, along with other aggressive enforcement measures, has made Glendale feel more secure, he said.

            “People feel comfortable leaving their cars in a parking lot, and when they come back out, they’ll still be there,” he said.

The economic downturn may also have played a part in the lower crime statistics by bolstering security, said Bryan Hill, a crime analyst for the Glendale Police Department. Job losses allow more people to stay home and be “capable guardians” of  their property or community, Hill said.

Lower crime is especially beneficial in a recession. With less financial means, victims of theft or vandalism can suffer more long-lasting or deeper economic injury, said Dominique Roe-Sepowitz, a professor of social work at Arizona State University who has worked with victims of crimes.

 A stolen vehicle, even as small as a bicycle, could cut off the revenue of a worker who depends on it to commute, Roe-Sepowitz said.

“It might impact your ability to function,” Roe-Sepowitz said.

Whether the lower crime rate represents a lasting change for Glendale remains to be seen, Hill said in an e-mail interview. The economic downturn’s effect could just as easily stimulate crime as depress it, he added.

If the city’s scarcity of jobs persists, “the crime rate will start to rise again because the capable guardians may turn into motivated offenders as time and difficult economic situations affect them,” Hill said.

Sources

City of Glendale—Weekly CAR Report, Sept. 5, 2009

Bryan Hill, crime analyst for the Glendale Police Department.

Sgt. Jim Cunningham, public information officer for the Glendale Police Department.

Dr. Dominique Roe-Sepowitz, assistant professor, School of Social Work at ASU

Missing Endangered Woman – Found

UPDATE  UPDATE  UPDATE

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – A missing Glendale woman, Shawna Wood 19 years old, was found by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office at about 5:00 p.m. this afternoon (10/25/2009).  Deputies were dispatched to the area of 131st Avenue and Colter Avenue after a concerned citizen recognized Shawna and Royce Harris from news reports.  Wood and Harris were found to be in good condition and advised they planned to go to California together.  Wood was reported missing from her home on Friday (10/23/2009) at about 3:30 pm.  It was reported she has a diminished mental capacity and would not be able to find her way home if she was alone.  Wood and Harris were returned safely to their families.

                 Thanks to the assistance of the media coverage of this incident Shawna Wood was quickly located safe and sound.  The Glendale Police Department would like to thank the members of the media for their assistance in finding Shawna. 

Missing Endangered Woman

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is asking for help in locating Shawna Wood a 19 year-old Glendale woman who has a diminished mental capacity. Due to the mental illness she has the mental capacity of an eight year old. Shawna does not take medication.

Shawna Wood was last seen at about 3:30 p.m. on Friday (10/23/2009) at her residence in the area of 43rd Avenue and W. Glendale Avenue. Shawna left her residence to go to Metro Center Mall on the bus with a friend, Royce Harris; Royce returned home to his residence in Phoenix and was later reported as missing by family members. Shawna may be with Royce who is described as a 17 year old black male, 6 foot 2 inches tall and weighs 240 pounds. There are no signs of foul play, but it is unusual for her to be gone from her residence beyond her curfew. Shawna does not normally leave the house by herself, and if left alone would not be able to find her way home.

Shawna Wood is a white female, 6 foot tall and weighs 125 pounds. She has blond hair, brown eyes and was wearing a camouflage shirt over a longer red shirt and blue jeans.

A photo of Shawna Wood is attached.

Anyone with information about Shawna Wood is asked to call the Glendale Police at 623-930-3000.

GLENDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT REMINDS COMMUNITY TO BE “MONSOON” PREPARED

GLENDALE, Ariz. – As the Valley gears up for Monsoon Season, Glendale Firefighters are asking the community to create an emergency preparedness plan.  It is important to be prepared throughout the entire year for any types of emergencies and that includes the Arizona Monsoon Season. There are three easy steps to follow to create your emergency preparedness plan; (1) Get a kit, (2) Make a plan, and (3) Be informed. Here are a few examples for each topic;

1.      Get a kit- Your kit should be a sturdy and easy to carry to container.

·         Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.

·         Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

·         Flashlights and extra batteries.

·         Battery-powered radio.

·         First aid kit.

·         Prescription and non-prescription medication.

·         Eye glasses.

·         Important phone numbers.

2.      Make a plan

·         Plan places where your family will meet, both within and outside of your immediate neighborhood.

·         If possible, have an out of town contact. It may be easier to make a long distance call due to local phone lines being overloaded. This will help with communicating between separated family members.

3.      Be informed

·         Learn about disasters or emergencies in your area.

·         Learn CCC (continuous chest compressions) and CPR and first aid.

More safety information can be found on the Glendale Fire Department’s website: www.glendaleaz.com and the Homeland Security’s Ready America website: www.ready.gov

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Be on the Lookout for Lightning - Some hints based on the  city's web page.

The Glendale Fire Department responds to several calls for lightning-related fires or human strikes each year. To help prevent lightning-related accidents and injuries, safety officials offer the following tips:

1. Stay inside. If you are outside when lightning appears, seek shelter immediately. Cars, trucks and other enclosed vehicles are generally safe. Keep windows rolled up and avoid contact with metal materials.
   
   
2. Avoid lightning hot spots. Stay away from open fields, high land, trees, poles and standing bodies of water. Also, stay away from windows.
   
   
3. Avoid water and metal. Do not swim or hold metal objects, including golf clubs and lawn chairs, when lightning is near.
   
   
4. Stay off the phone. Even cordless phone base stations  can carry a shock if lightning strikes nearby. Cell phones should only be used if necessary.
   
   
5. Avoid plumbing fixtures. Do not bathe or swim during a lightning storm because lightning can travel along metal pipes.
   
6.  
7. If you can hear thunder, lightning is present. Even if you can’t see it, it’s there.
8.  

Glendale, AZ - Be Glendale Monsoon Ready
Important Emergency Numbers – Utilities and More
To report an outage in your area: (From City of Glendale Website http://www.glendaleaz.com/monsoon)

Electricity. Glendale residents are serviced by both Arizona Public Service and Salt River Project for electricity. Contact the following: APS at 602-371-7171 or www.aps.com; SRP at 602-236-8888 or www.srpnet.com.

Water. The city provides all water and sewer services. Call 623-930-3190.

Cable, Phone and Internet Service. These are provided through Qwest Communications at 800-244-1111 (www.qwest.com) or Cox Communications at 602-277-1000 (www.cox.com/phoenix).

Gas. For gas emergencies, call Southwest Gas at 800-873-2440.

Public Safety. If you have an emergency and need police or fire, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 623-930-3000.

Downed Trees and Road Hazards. After 5 p.m. during a weekday and on weekends, call 623-934-7551; during regular business hours, call 623-930-2600.

 

Glendale, AZ - Be Glendale Monsoon Ready  
Making a Family Disaster Plan

Planning ahead is the first step to helping to keep your family safe during an emergency. The Red Cross offers the following tips to guide you in creating a plan that will work for your family.

1. Talk. Discuss with your family what can happen during a monsoon storm. Establish responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team, and have a back up person for every task. For example, assign someone to batteries and flashlights and someone else to turning off electrical appliances.
   
   
2. Plan. Choose two places to meet after a disaster:
   
   Right outside your home, in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire.
   
   Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home due to a flood or are asked to evacuate your neighborhood.
   
   
3. Learn. Each adult in your household should learn how and when to turn off utilities such as electricity, water and gas. Have a fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it.
   
   
4. Check supplies - click to  see Red Cross site on building a supply kit. Review your disaster supplies and replace water and food every six months.
   
   
5. Tell. Let everyone in the household know where emergency contact information is kept. Make copies for everyone to carry with them. Be sure to include an out-of-town contact. It may be easier to call out of the area if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Keep the information updated.
   
   
6. Practice. Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable or grid-locked. Practice earthquake, tornado and fire drills at home, school and work.
   
   
7. Also, don't forget to trim your trees before storm season. By pruning trees, you lessen the chance of destruction during heavy winds.

Other references with some excellent night fire and helicopter video footage.

Jeff Buteram, Reporter, KPHO.com  http://www.kpho.com/news/20503163/detail.html

FOX 10 Coverage  http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/news/local/glendale/cleanup_after_lightning_fire_08_22_2009

Learn about monsoon safety
http://www.glendaleaz.com/monsoon 

Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni of Glendale (CPAAG) 
present a check for $2200 to West Valley Advocacy Center

L to R -   Nancy Lenox, Virginia Meeker, Lt. Katrina Alberty, Nikki Colletti, Jerry Berntsen, Sue Berntsen

 Members of the Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni of Glendale (CPAAG) present a check for $2200 to Lt. Alberty of the West Valley Advocacy Center.  This presentation was made on Friday, Sept 4 at the West Valley Advocacy Center.   The donation was the direct result of the Wine Tasting and Silent Auction that was held on July 25, 2009 at Flemings Steakhouse in Peoria, AZ.   

More story and photos click HERE

Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team Recognized with National Award

            zGLENDALE, AZ. – The Glendale Fire Department’s Crisis Response Program is the recipient of the 2009 Innovative Program Award from the National Association of Volunteer Programs in Local Government (NAVPLG). The Crisis Response Program engages the help of community members in easing emotional stress suffered by victims, family members and witnesses following a traumatic event.

“We thank the NAVPLG for the terrific award given to the Glendale Fire Department’s Crisis Response Team,” said Mark Burdick, Glendale Fire Chief. “The role of our crisis response members in assisting our customers at the fire scene and other emergency response scenes truly helps us provide seamless customer service to those we serve and we congratulate them on their deserving recognition,” Chief Burdick added.

The main focus for Glendale’s crisis response members is to provide immediate crisis intervention. The 60-member-strong team stays effective through training provided by psycho-social professionals.

NAVPLG is an international association of administrators for volunteer programs in local, city and county government.

More information on the Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team can be found at www.glendaleaz.com/CrisisResponse

Drowning Impact Awareness Month 

Left- Glendale  Mayor Elaine Scruggs looks on as Councilman Steve Frate reminisces about how some of the early events he participated in  inspired his interest in children and water safety.

Hear how Glendale participates! Hear the proclamation read by Mayor Elaine Scruggs! 

(Beta version will add more titles etc...)
See the video of the Event HERE!

CITY OF GLENDALE

WHEREAS, Drowning Impact Awareness month is a statewide effort to bring attention to the potential consequences of childhood drownings and the simple steps we can all take to prevent them; and

WHEREAS, the drowning incidents in Arizona take the lives of the equivalent of a classroom of children each year; and

WHEREAS, a child drowning can happen to any family regardless of education, race or socio-economic background; and

WHEREAS, Glendale families can take simple steps to protect their children around water to avoid the tragedy of the unnecessary loss of life; and

WHEREAS, keeping children safe around water is the mutual goal of Water Watchers at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, the Glendale Fire Department and the Glendale Parks and Recreation Aquatics Program; and

WHEREAS, water safety remains a priority for all Arizona families, firefighters, lifeguards, water safety instructors and elected officials who work vigorously every year to prevent childhood drownings.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Elaine Scruggs, Mayor of the City of Glendale, Arizona, on behalf of the City Council, do hereby proclaim the month of August 2009 as:

DROWNING IMPACT AWARENESS MONTH

and call upon the citizens of Glendale to protect their children around water.

In Witness Thereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 11^th day of August 2009.

August is Drowning Impact Awareness Month   Arizona ranks second in the nation for child drownings, and summer months bring increased incidents. So far this year, there have been 12 fatalities in Maricopa County. It's a tragedy that knows no bounds and it is completely preventable.   For the sixth year, the Water Watchers program, led by Phoenix Children's Hospital along with Arizona fire departments and local businesses are recognizing August as Drowning Impact Awareness Month.     This year, the effort will include: distribution of more than 75,000 purple ribbons worn by supporters a state-wide focus on water safety water safety events throughout the Valley proclamations from the governor and mayors across the state banners and signs, donated and produced by SRP Safety Connection, hanging in public safety buildings, libraries, La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries stores, and YMCA’s throughout Maricopa County involvement and educational efforts from businesses, schools, and organizations like the Drowning Prevention Coalition of Arizona   Why do it? To recognize the impact of each drowning and near-drowning on family, friends, emergency personnel, and our community. To increase discussion about drowning and share prevention information that can avert future water-related incidents for Valley kids.   What you can do: Wear purple awareness ribbons. Include water safety information in existing newsletters and marketing information. Educate yourself on water safety. Incorporate Drowning Impact Awareness into activities throughout August. Encourage water safety discussions. Spread the word about existing efforts for maximum attention and support.   For the entire month of August, purple ribbons will be tied to the trees in front of Phoenix Children's Hospital, one for each water-related incident involving a child in Maricopa County since January 1, 2000. More than 1,000 ribbons will be displayed.     If you'd like to get involved, you can request and distribute purple ribbons or volunteer for Water Watchers at Phoenix Children's Hospital. Read more at the Hospital website at:    If you'd like to get involved, email LaDon Dieu, of Phoenix Children's Hospital, to request purple ribbons or volunteer for Water Watchers at Phoenix Children's Hospital. Info From: Phoenix Children's Hospital http://www.phoenixchildrens.com/spotlight-stories/diam/

Glendale Police Department Re-accredited. On August 1, 2009 a board from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) awarded re-accreditation to Chief Conrad of the Glendale Police Department. A team of assessors from CALEA conducted an assessment on April 18-22, 2009 to examine all aspects of the Glendale Police Department. This examination included an assessment of the department’s policies, procedures, management, operations, and support services.

GLENDALE FIRE STATION 151 HAS A NEW HOME

               GLENDALE, Ariz. –Glendale Fire Station 151 is now located at 6851 N. 52nd Avenue, in Glendale. The modern 14,000 square foot duel company fire station has 10 bedrooms, a full kitchen, day room, conference room, work stations, and a gym. The move came after spending 40 years at the original fire station located on 55th and Orangewood Avenues.

It was determined in a ‘Needs Assessment’ by the Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) that this move would improve emergency response times as well as facilitates the needs of the community and the modern Glendale Fire Department equipment such as fire trucks and other specialty vehicles. The Glendale Fire Department received its Accredited Agency status with the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, Inc. (CFAI) in 2002.

The old location is no longer a fire station although it is still a part of the Glendale Fire Department as it will be used for resource management. Customers are asked not to consider it a working fire station. Blood pressure checks will no longer be offered out of the old station.

A Grand Opening of new Glendale Fire Station 151 will be scheduled for some time in the fall.

GLENDALE FIREFIGHTERS URGE COMMUNITY TO BE WATER WISE, TWO YEAR OLD GIRL IS GLENDALE’S FIRST CHILD FATAL DROWNING OF 2009

         GLENDALE, AZ. – At approximately 7:00 P.M. yesterday, June 28th, Glendale Firefighters responded to a home near 67th Avenue and Utopia Road for a reported child drowning. Glendale firefighters arrived four minutes after being dispatched to find an adult performing CPR on a 2 year old girl. The child reportedly was in a bathtub when she slipped under the water for an unknown amount of time.

         Firefighters immediately treated the young girl with advanced life support protocols and air lifted her to Saint Joseph’s Hospital where unfortunately she was later pronounced. The young girl becomes the first child drowning fatality in Glendale this year. The Glendale Police Department continues its investigation and has not released names of the child or parents.

         Glendale Firefighters are urging the community to be water wise this summer and beyond. According to the Children’s Safety Zone, from 2001 to 2008, on average, 19 children have died each year in a water related incident in Maricopa County. So far this year in Maricopa County, there has been at least 80 water related incidents with at least 21 deaths, 8 being children. Drowning incidents affect the entire community.

         Glendale Fire Department Safety Tips:

·         Adults and Children should learn how to swim

·         Learn CPR

·         Install barriers

·         Empty water buckets after use

·         Never swim alone

·         ALWAYS, ALWAYS WATCH YOUR CHILDREN AROUND WATER!

More safety tips can be found on the Glendale Fire Department website, www.glendaleaz.com/fire

Papa Ed's Ice Cream Donates over $125 to Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team  - Mystery  Customer Contributes Another $50 --- Everyone Had a 'DOG-GONE Good Time!'--

Photo By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Linda Moran-Whittley - Papa Ed's Ice Cream, Lynette Jelinek, "Topaz" the dog  and Karla Houston 
of the Glendale Fire Dept. Crisis Response Team.  Topaz is seen here guarding the cash! 
______________________________________________________________________

<Glendale Daily Planet  April 22, 2009>  Wednesday afternoon, Papa Ed's Ice Cream presented a check in the amount of $125.95 to the Glendale Fire Dept. Crisis Response Team.  Accepting the  contribution was Karla Houston, Crisis Response Program Coordinator,  Lynette Jelinek, and "Topaz" the dog from the Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team.

The "Tip Jar" sitting on the counter in the ice cream parlor has been designated specifically for this wonderful volunteer group from day one. 

Linda the owner of  Papa Ed's tells us. "Thanks to the generosity of our customers we were able to show our appreciation in a big way,  for all the valuable things this group does in our community."

The festive  enthusiasm spread quickly to a special visitor from Michigan who donated another $50.00 right on the spot!   

 A  partnership  between  an Ice Cream Shop and  Fire Department Crisis Response Team  is a unique entity. 

Karla Houston, Crisis Response Program Coordinator explains "Linda Whitley and I met about 2 years ago, before Papa Ed's was open for business.  She called and said she had money for the GFD CR Program and how would I like for her to get it to me.  I was thrilled and very appreciative.  She had read about our Volunteer Program in the paper and decided we were a good cause to donate to."

She continues, "It was right after Glendale’s Teddy Bear Day.  She had placed a jar out with our name on it, during that weekend and people just kept putting money in the jar.  When I went to pick up the check, and met Linda, it seemed like we had known each other forever (even though we had just met at that moment). "

Linda's building took quite a while to remodel to be used as an ice cream parlor. While this was  going on Karla tells us, "She (Linda) was out in her driveway with a Shamrock Ice Cream freezer giving ice cream away and all the people had to do was to donate to the CR Program!"

Photo By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Linda Moran-Whittley - Papa Ed's Ice Cream and  Karla Houston 
of the Glendale Fire Dept.  Crisis Response Team.

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OK,  You liked Topaz? Here is a little  bit more about him!  

Be sure to check back files on the Glendale Daily Planet and back issues of the Glendale Star for other stories in this remarkable member of the Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team.

Topaz, Glendale's "FIRST CRISIS RESPONSE DOG"
Photo Courtesy Glendale Fire Department

The year and a half old yellow lab has been through extensive training and can actually sense when people are frightened or grieving. Topaz is used as a tool for communication. “He actually helps build a therapeutic bridge between the customer and the crisis interventionist,” said Lynette Jelinek, Glendale Fire Human Services Division Manager. “He helps lighten the mood, and bring in a calming effect to a situation that may seem out of control,” Jelinek continued.

Glendale Fire adopted the trained service dog from Paws with a Cause, an organization that trains various service animals for people with disabilities.

Operation Prom and Beyond Mock Fatal Car Collision
Glendale High School - 1500 students were in attendance

Glendale High School’s Prom will take place on May 2nd, 2009.

GLENDALE, AZ. – In Arizona 952 car collisions resulted in a fatal injury in 2007.  Persons aged 15-19 accounted for over 10% of all people killed in motor vehicle collisions in Arizona during 2007. In 2008 there were 13 fatal traffic collisions in Glendale. Of those fatalities, 23% were alcohol related, 30% were drug related and 30% were speed related.

         Glendale Fire and Police Departments gave Glendale high school students a firsthand look of the dangers of driving while under the influence. The goal is to encourage students to use their best judgment while driving. Students gathered  in the football field bleachers while firefighters and police officers work a “mock-collision” with damaged vehicles and several patients. In this scenario, Glendale Firefighters treated patients (student actors) while the Glendale Police Officers investigate the collision.

         At least one patient will die in this mock exercise and one other was flown by helicopter to simulate transport to a local hospital. The police department made an arrest of the intoxicated student which will change his/her life forever.

Glendale Police Technician Measuring Distances,

Glendale High School students sat silently in the bleachers as the scene unfolded showing crashed cars, dead and injured bodies. Police fire, and aerovac helicopter went into play to save who they could. Students got to see the offending driver tested for intoxication and arrested and taken away.


Students sat in  shock after seeing the mock exercise and were furtherer reminded on the finality of the situation they saw by hearing a real life recounting by Sam Risha  (above-left) who told of the day his 18-year-old daughter, Nora, was killed by a drunk driver. Her life came to a tragic end the evening of Oct. 1, 2008

Ed Sharpe reviews some still photos on his camera phone of the Mock DUI

Ed Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet and  
 Sgt. Joe Turitto - Glendale Police Department

Glendale Police Explorer Post 2469 
 A Great Opportunity to Learn and be Involved

If you’re interested in a career in law enforcement and are between the ages of 14 (and graduated from the 8th grade) to 20, then Explorer Post #2469 is for you. The post would like anyone who is interested to attend our next meeting.

The Explorer Post specializes in all aspects of law enforcement including but not limited to: records, communications, crime scene management, accident investigation, and patrol procedures. The post also assists the police department during the city’s major events. They participate in community service projects and work with the alcohol and tobacco enforcement programs.

The Glendale Police Explorer Post #2469 provides a valuable learning experience. Our purpose is to introduce post members to current law enforcement concepts, ideas, and techniques. This is accomplished under the direction of Glendale Police Officers and Post Advisors.

• Meetings:  The post meets every other Thursday night from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.  Meetings are held at 6255 W. Union Hills Dr at the Foothills Glendale Police Station. Class topics include: criminal law, accident investigation, physical training, self defense, patrol procedures, officer safety tactics, etc.
  
  
• Patrol ride-along:  Explorers ride with police officers during their normal shifts. This gives the Explorer an opportunity to view the duties of a patrol officer.
  
  
• Communications:  Explorers work in the Communications Division where they assist dispatchers with emergency and non-emergency calls and dispatching.  Explorers are trained in radio procedures.
  
  
• Identification:  Explorers are trained by personnel from the Identification Division. They learn how to collect fingerprints, take photographs, and assist at major crime scenes to preserve evidence.
  
  
• Special Events:  Explorers assist with traffic control and crowd control at various city events such as parades, festivals, Fourth of July activities, and Fiesta Bowl activities.
  
  
• Law Enforcement Explorer Academies:  Every summer we offer opportunities for members to attend the Junior Law Enforcement Explorer Academy (JLEA) and the Arizona Law Enforcement Training Academy (ALETA). The explorers receive some of the same training that police officers receive at the Police Academy.
  
  
• Law Enforcement Explorer Conferences and Competitions:  Explorer Post #2469 attends as many Law Enforcement Explorer conferences as possible. They also attend various competitions with other law enforcement posts.

The purpose of the post is to explore and prepare for a career in law enforcement.  The post also strives to develop leadership, discipline, physical fitness, teamwork and professional skills for all of its members.

Post #2469 is the oldest law enforcement specialty post in Arizona.  Many of our members have gone on to become law enforcement officers, military officers, detention officers and dispatchers.

We encourage you to consider joining Post #2469 today!

For more information on the Glendale Police Explorer Program please attend our next meeting. Please call the Explorer Information Hotline to verify the meeting schedule has not changed.

Explorer Information Hotline: (623) 930-4414

Contact:
Officer Richard Edwards
Phone: 623-930-3226
REdwards@GlendaleAz.com

Glendale Firefighters Raise Awareness with Mock Drowning Presentation (June 5th)

Photo 1: Glendale Firefighters, Southwest Ambulance Crews, Rose Lane Aquatics Life Guards in a MOCK drowning exercise.

PHOTOS AND STORY COURTESY GLENDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT

The 2009 Glendale Water Safety Day was sponsored by the Glendale Fire Department; Glendale Parks and Recreation Department; Southwest Ambulance; Arizona Physicians, IPA; and Sanderson Ford and promises to be a day of fun and education for children and adults on the opening week of Rose Lane Aquatics Center in Glendale.

Several vendors came out to share water safety information for children and families of all ages. Southwest Ambulance presented Glendale Vice Mayor Manny Martinez and the Glendale Parks and Recreations Department with a check for $5,000 which will go towards swim lessons for children this summer. Sanderson Ford also unveiled the new Glendale Fire Department “Mobile Safety Message”, a vehicle donated to the Glendale Fire Department with a special safety message wrap to act as a moving billboard to promote safety throughout the city.

“Child drowning incidents impact the child victims obviously and of course the immediate families but drowning incidents also impacts other family members, friends, neighbors, classmates, teachers and so many others. Drowning incidents truly impact the entire community so it was nice to see so many members of the community stand together today for this call to action,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. 

Glendale Firefighters along with Southwest Ambulance crews and Rose Lane Aquatics Center life guards performed a MOCK drowning incident to educate families of the impact of such an unfortunate event and to promote water safety this summer. “Unfortunately since 2000, on average approximately 20 children have died each year due to drowning in Maricopa County,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. “For every fatal child drowning, there are several others who suffer from lifelong disabilities due to near drowning,” Chief Burdick continued. “We are asking everyone to learn how to swim, learn CPR and of course, always watch your children around water,” Chief Burdick added.

Photo 2:  Glendale Firefighters, Southwest Ambulance Crews, Rose Lane Aquatics Life Guards in a MOCK drowning exercise.

GLENDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES

2008 FIREFIGHTER OF THE YEAR


Engineer Paramedic Ron Hart

GLENDALE, Ariz. –The Glendale Fire Department has named Engineer Paramedic Ron Hart as its Firefighter of the Year for 2008.  The announcement came Thursday, March 5th, during the Glendale Fire Department’s 22st Annual Awards Ceremony.

         Engineer Hart, a six year veteran, was nominated for his dedication as a mentor by his peers. Part of his nomination read: “Ron has been involved in several different areas of our fire department. He is the Commander of our Honor Guard. He is also an active mentor to new medic students as well as probationary firefighters. Most, if not all, of what he does is without compensation. Ron is a great representative of the Glendale Fire Department,” the nomination continued.

         Congratulation Engineer Hart on the well deserved title of Glendale Fire Department’s 2008 Firefighter of the Year!

Other awards given at the department’s 22st Annual Awards Banquet;

·         Service Award: Captain Mark Mann and Captain Pat Martin

·         Service Award (Non-Sworn): Chaplain Raul Ochoa

·         Chief Don Heatwole Award: Assistant Fire Marshal Debra Oso

·         Fire Chief’s Award: Deputy Chief Pat Berkel

·         Community Service Award: Battalion Chief Gary Benson

·         Professional Service Award – EMS: Engine 153- B Shift, Captain Rob Tutrone, Engineer Jason Zeller, Firefighter Brian Triggs and Firefighter Jim Robinson

·         Fire Pal of the Year Award: Firefighter Adam Pottle

·         Crisis Response Volunteer of the Year Award: Esther Gillett

·         Glendale Volunteer Fire Cadets of the Year Award: Cadets Eddie Villa and Josh Slagle

·         Glendale Fire Safety Educator of the Year: Angela Cabagnaro

·         Fire Marshal’s Professional Excellence Award: Assistant Fire Marshal Larry Randall

·         Call of the Year Award: Engine 151- C Shift, Engineer Dave Green, Firefighters Ashley Vandertoorn, Michael Higgins, Adam Pottle and Kyle Port.

“AN ALARMING TALE OF TWO CITIES”
FAMILIES GET FREE SMOKE ALARMS
FROM CITY OF PHOENIX & CITY OF GLENDALE

Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick

The safety of hundreds of families was increased last Saturday, April 4^th, due to the efforts of a mass smoke alarm installation effort in the neighborhoods near 43^rd and Glendale Avenues. The event, which took place in bordering neighborhoods between the cities of Glendale and Phoenix, was sponsored by the Foundation for Burns and Trauma along with The Glendale Fire Department, Phoenix Fire Department, Schaller-Anderson, The United Way, and Food City.

            Firefighters and fire department volunteers along with volunteers from Paradise Valley and Phoenix Community Colleges, M & I Bank and APS installed hundreds of smoke alarms.  In Glendale 146 smoke alarms were installed during the 3 hour event. Firefighters encourage families to install and check smoke alarms to insure safety. A family’s chances of surviving a home fire double when there are working smoke alarms in the home.

            “This is a great event to be a part of. Hundreds of people were out here, not just from the fire department but from several industries. This was not just a fire department event, this was a community event and everyone here made a difference in someone else’s life today and we thank them for their efforts,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. In 2008, at least 34 people died in Arizona due to a residential fire and at least 7 this year have lost their lives in a home fire.  Tips on how to live healthier safer lives can be found on the Glendale Fire Department website, www.glendaleaz.com/fire.

Glendale and Phoenix Installers pick up installation kits and head off to work.

The safety of hundreds of families was increased and  in just the Glendale  zone 146 
alarms were installed. We do not have a count on the Phoenix sector yet.

On Saturday, April 4th, city officials from Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon’s office and Glendale Mayor Elaine Scrugg’s office worked side by side to deliver and install dual sensing smoke alarms to families who need them in the area of 43rd Avenue and Glendale Road. 

  Schaller-Anderson, the Foundation for Burns and Trauma, Food City and the United Way are all sponsored the installation event that will broughty free smoke detectors to families who need them.  Volunteers included workers from Paradise Valley Community College, Phoenix Community College, M & I Bank, and SRP.

* The battery in a smoke alarm should be replaced annually, and the smoke alarm, itself, should
   be replaced every 7-10 years. 

*  It should be installed on every floor of your home, and outside each sleeping area. 

*  Test the smoke alarm at least once every month.

*  Families should make a Home Escape Plan and practice it, so that everyone knows at least
   two exits out of the house.  

*  A family's chances of surviving a home fire DOUBLE when there are working smoke alarms in
   the home. 

*  Most deadly fires in America occur during the night, between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., and the
   majority of victims die in their sleep. 

More photos in photo pick up area  HERE

Friday Night Monsoon Lightning Lashes Out From  Glendale Skies
4 People, Pets and Guitars Escape Unharmed From Burning Home 

By Ed Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet

GLENDALE, Ariz. -- A lightning strike during Friday evening's monsoon lashed out of the sky and sparked a fire at a house in the neighborhood of 51st and Peoria in  Glendale Arizona Friday evening.

The  owner, Dennis Conner, tell us he and the next door neighbor heard the loud crash about 8:45 in the evening.

Both parties  went outside the house, which is located on Mercer Lane, trying to figure out what the loud bang was. They were unable to locate anything, though, so they went back inside the house.

A few minutes later, Rick Broadly, Dennis Conner's neighbor, banged on his door, yelling that the house was on fire. The four people inside the house ran outside immediately. No one was harmed. 

Dennis went up on the roof to try to extinguish the  fire and  thought he was making headway until, as he tells us, " I saw the flames pop up in yet another area." 

Firefighters  showed up in approximately 5 minutes  according to Dennis asked him to leave the roof and went to work on the blaze.

In addition to putting out the fire, the firemen were of great assistance in helping  Dennis's family remove personal belongings assisted by helpful neighbors.

(Be sure to watch the video segment here!)

Dennis  could not express profusely enough the gratitude he has for the Glendale, Phoenix and Peoria fire departments that all showed up to  extinguish this blaze.

Good neighbors are wonderful  and neighbors  that have an extra motor home and  graciously  let you use  their motor home are even better! Dennis Conner and his  family have a motor home parked next to the house for them to live in as  they prepare to find another place to live.

The Conner family had lived in the home for 12 years -- and had just remodeled.

Dennis Conner,  homeowner,  preparing to move out an audio mixer

Point of entry....  Lightning  attracted by the metal air conditioner on the roof ignited wood in the attic.  A fire travels across a house very rapidly though the attic where there is  nice dry wood for the fire to consume. Damage to structures results from the attic being burned up but also by the water that is used to save the structure coming though the sheetrock in the room's ceiling. If the attic fire is not extinguished quickly the entire structure will burn to the ground- or in the case of a block structure the  block can be left...but nothing else!

Another neighbor later told firefighters that he had seen a lightning strike hit the house, likely sparking the fire. A Glendale fire investigator is currently working to confirm that.

A view looking up into the attic from one of the rooms

A view of the kitchen.. reeking of the aftereffects of the flames in the attic 
insulation and charred timer pieces cover the stove and kitchen counters

charred timer

Be on the Lookout for Lightning - Some hints based on the  city's web page.

The Glendale Fire Department responds to several calls for lightning-related fires or human strikes each year. To help prevent lightning-related accidents and injuries, safety officials offer the following tips:

1. Stay inside. If you are outside when lightning appears, seek shelter immediately. Cars, trucks and other enclosed vehicles are generally safe. Keep windows rolled up and avoid contact with metal materials.
   
   
2. Avoid lightning hot spots. Stay away from open fields, high land, trees, poles and standing bodies of water. Also, stay away from windows.
   
   
3. Avoid water and metal. Do not swim or hold metal objects, including golf clubs and lawn chairs, when lightning is near.
   
   
4. Stay off the phone. Even cordless phone base stations  can carry a shock if lightning strikes nearby. Cell phones should only be used if necessary.
   
   
5. Avoid plumbing fixtures. Do not bathe or swim during a lightning storm because lightning can travel along metal pipes.
   
6.  
7. If you can hear thunder, lightning is present. Even if you can’t see it, it’s there.
8.  

Glendale, AZ - Be Glendale Monsoon Ready
Important Emergency Numbers – Utilities and More
To report an outage in your area: (From City of Glendale Website http://www.glendaleaz.com/monsoon)

Electricity. Glendale residents are serviced by both Arizona Public Service and Salt River Project for electricity. Contact the following: APS at 602-371-7171 or www.aps.com; SRP at 602-236-8888 or www.srpnet.com.

Water. The city provides all water and sewer services. Call 623-930-3190.

Cable, Phone and Internet Service. These are provided through Qwest Communications at 800-244-1111 (www.qwest.com) or Cox Communications at 602-277-1000 (www.cox.com/phoenix).

Gas. For gas emergencies, call Southwest Gas at 800-873-2440.

Public Safety. If you have an emergency and need police or fire, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 623-930-3000.

Downed Trees and Road Hazards. After 5 p.m. during a weekday and on weekends, call 623-934-7551; during regular business hours, call 623-930-2600.

 

Glendale, AZ - Be Glendale Monsoon Ready  
Making a Family Disaster Plan

Planning ahead is the first step to helping to keep your family safe during an emergency. The Red Cross offers the following tips to guide you in creating a plan that will work for your family.

1. Talk. Discuss with your family what can happen during a monsoon storm. Establish responsibilities for each member of your household and plan to work together as a team, and have a back up person for every task. For example, assign someone to batteries and flashlights and someone else to turning off electrical appliances.
   
   
2. Plan. Choose two places to meet after a disaster:
   
   Right outside your home, in case of a sudden emergency such as a fire.
   
   Outside your neighborhood, in case you cannot return home due to a flood or are asked to evacuate your neighborhood.
   
   
3. Learn. Each adult in your household should learn how and when to turn off utilities such as electricity, water and gas. Have a fire extinguisher in your home and know how to use it.
   
   
4. Check supplies - click to  see Red Cross site on building a supply kit. Review your disaster supplies and replace water and food every six months.
   
   
5. Tell. Let everyone in the household know where emergency contact information is kept. Make copies for everyone to carry with them. Be sure to include an out-of-town contact. It may be easier to call out of the area if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Keep the information updated.
   
   
6. Practice. Practice evacuating your home twice a year. Drive your planned evacuation route and plot alternate routes on a map in case main roads are impassable or grid-locked. Practice earthquake, tornado and fire drills at home, school and work.
   
   
7. Also, don't forget to trim your trees before storm season. By pruning trees, you lessen the chance of destruction during heavy winds.

Other references with some excellent night fire and helicopter video footage.

Jeff Buteram, Reporter, KPHO.com  http://www.kpho.com/news/20503163/detail.html

FOX 10 Coverage  http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/dpp/news/local/glendale/cleanup_after_lightning_fire_08_22_2009

Learn about monsoon safety
Glendale, AZ - Be Glendale Monsoon Ready http://www.glendaleaz.com/monsoon 

Bears & More presents the 2009 Steiff Event,
Ode to Joy - the Margarete Steiff Story.

"Who Let The Dogs Out!" 

Jessica From then Glendale Visitor Center sets Tortia up for some cool indulgence of 'Frosty Paws' on a summer evening!

Hector, Ally and Tiffany look on as Jessica enjoys watching German shepherd  Elke indulging  in a ' Frosty Paws' frozen treat    Chihuahua Tortia id in the arms of Tiffany . Children in far background are Landon & Ethan.

RESIDENTIAL FIRE RELATED DEATHS IN ARIZONA UP TO 7

GLENDALE FIREFIGHTERS TO EDUCATE FAMILIES ON
SMOKE DETECTORS AND HOME ESCAPE PLANNING

GLENDALE, AZ. – There were 34 fire related deaths in Arizona in 2008. This year’s number is currently at 7 for 2009. The latest deadly incidents happened on March 2nd in the East Valley when a home fire claimed the lives of a 29 year old man and his 1 year old daughter and on March 3rd when a lady in her forty’s died in a home fire in the North Valley.

            Glendale Firefighters, with the help of the Orchard Glenn Home Owners Association and a Weed and Seed Grant,  provided an education on smoke detectors and home escape planning to the children and parents of Harold W. Smith School, located at 6534 N. 63rd Avenue in Glendale. The event took place on Thursday and Friday, March 12th and 13th from 11:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.

            Each family received a free smoke detector and will get a firsthand look at just how fast smoke can fill a room using the Glendale Fire Safety Trailer. Dennis Davis was on hand with the safety trailer, or “smoke trailer,” creates non-toxic smoke to help educate families on the importance of escape planning. Once in the trailer, families are encouraged to stay low as they escape the smoke and flames. (See movie below we did with the trailer and Dennis Davis in 2006.)

Glendale Child Safety Fair   -   Event, May 12th

Sara Steffen, Glendale Fire Crisis Response Coordinator finishes the install of a car seat.

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Safety was the word of the day as several families with children took part in Glendale’s Child Safety Fair on Tuesday, May 12th,  at the Boys and Girls Club located near 63rd Avenue and Maryland in Glendale. The efforts were led by the Glendale Fire and Police Departments and also included Southwest Ambulance, Safe Kids Coalition and Sanderson Ford. Glendale Fire and the Safe Kids Coalition hosted a car seat event as part of the fair and installed a total of 22 car seats in the two hour event. Glendale Fire Department also distributed 288 smoke alarms which was made possible by a Glendale Weed and Seed Grant. “This event was a partnership with several agencies that have a vested interest in the safety of our community and we were happy to be a part of it,” said Lisa Kutis, Glendale Fire Department Community Relations Coordinator. The Glendale Police Department took this opportunity to teach children internet safety and several other safety measures. Glendale Police also did fingerprinting and Child ID’s for several children who attended.

“OUR GOAL IS FOR GLENDALE TO BE THE SAFEST CITY IN THE COUNTRY TO HAVE A CARDIAC EMERGENCY”

Photo: Cardiac arrest survivor, Daniel Lane, learns CCC-CPR with Glendale Fire Captain Mark Manor.

GLENDALE, Ariz. – According to the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), in Glendale, the layperson bystander CPR rate was a high 31% in 2008 compared to 23% in 2007. According to ADHS, typically less than 20% of bystanders do any CPR in the state of Arizona.

Since November 2007, the Glendale Fire Department has aggressively trained the public in CCC, a new life saving method. In all, over 1,700 residents have been to a free CCC class in Glendale. Thousands more have been informed of the new technique through several media outlets to encourage people to embrace the simple new method. “It’s safe, it’s easy, and it’s legal. It requires no mouth-to-mouth contact,” said Mark Burdick, Glendale Fire Chief.  “Chances for someone to survive a cardiac arrest quadruples when bystander CPR takes place. In 2008 the layperson bystander CPR rate was 31% in Glendale and our goal is to improve on that number as we continue to train as many people CCC-CPR as possible,” Chief Burdick continued.

CCC-CPR was developed through extensive research at UA Sarver Heart Center. It was discovered through research that there is enough oxygen in the lungs of a cardiac arrest patient to keep the heart and brain alive for several minutes as long as the heart is being compressed. In Glendale, bystanders are encouraged to simply call 911 and do chest compressions until firefighters arrive. Free class information can be found at www.azshare.gov

FIREWORKS BILL COULD COST CHILDREN'S HANDS - BURN RESIDENCES

Glendale Fire Works With Automatic Aid Partners in 
Mass Emergency Response Drill at Westgate

(GFD/GDP) GLENDALE, AZ. – The Glendale Fire Department worked with other west valley agencies including Phoenix Fire, Peoria Fire, Avondale Fire, Goodyear Fire, Tolleson Fire and Southwest Ambulance on a mass emergency response drill at Westgate City Center in Glendale. The DRILL scenario included an apparent explosion in an underground parking garage at Westgate leaving 15-20 patients, fire, a Hazardous Materials component and at least 3 heavily damaged and unstable vehicles.

As firefighters arrived to the scene they encountered several Westgate employees self evacuating their offices with heavy smoke coming from the underground parking garage.

This dynamic incident called for firefighters from several different agencies to work together to control the fire scene while triaging, treating and transporting patients. Some patients were trapped in vehicles crying out for firefighters to use special tools to extricate them out before treating them. The horrific mixed sounds of the  garage fire alarm and the shouts and cries of the victims was overwhelming. Glendale Fire’s HazMat team was on scene for the HazMat component brought on by the explosion while other firefighters worked with Westgate employees for their safe evacuation and accurate accountability of every person from surrounding buildings.

 

 

It addition to this fire department exercise, Westgate City Center used this event for their fire drill. Firefighters worked with office staff using Westgate emergency escape plans for employees.

 

“There are several benefits to these types of drills,” said Glendale Fire Deputy Chief and this event’s planner, Wayne Smith. “This is a proactive opportunity to preplan the Westgate parking structure, office complex and their building systems through a drill scenario. This training exercise will have us better prepared in the event that we should have to react and respond here or anyplace like it in the future for such an event,” Chief Smith continued. 

“The Glendale Fire Department appreciates the cooperation and input of Westgate City Center for this drill. Westgate obviously cares for its patrons and the safety of everyone who works and lives here,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick.

Peoria Firefighters take a break after the intense exercise. Right after this photo was taken they got a call from their dispatcher over the radio and rushed off lights and sirens going ton a 'Real Call'
	All the smoke is gone and I re-visit the scene

Honeywell Aerospace Makes Major Announcements at
 HAI Heli-Expo 2009 [Source: Honeywell Aerospace ]
[22-Feb-2009] At the 61st annual Helicopter Association International (HAI) Heli-Expo, Honeywell Aerospace has made major announcements. One such announcement is that the Sentinel™ helicopter avionics system, used widely by U.K. and European helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) operators, is now available to pilots in the United States. The HAI Heli-Expo 2009 is being held in Anaheim and will run from February 22 to 24. With over 70 nations in attendance, this year's Heli-Expo will be the largest Helicopter Industry Show of the year.

GLENDALE POLICE SEEK SEXUAL ASSAULT SUSPECT

 

　

 

GPD-GLENDALE, Ariz. – Glendale Police are seeking information on a suspect regarding a sexual assault. A young female was sexually assaulted in the area of 7100 West Orangewood Avenue as she was walking home from school.

The suspect is described as a dark skinned male with brown eyes between 35 and 45 years old, 5’9” with a medium to heavy build, he has a tattoo along inside of left arm extending upward from wrist to elbow; cursive writing possibly a name, and no facial hair.

The male was seen leaving the area in an older Tan 4-door smaller car (possibly Honda type) with dark windows. Paint was flaking off both the front and rear quarter panel areas on the side of the vehicle.

A composite sketch of the suspect is attached.

Anyone with information about this subject or the vehicle is asked to call the Glendale Police Department at 623-930-3000 or Silent Witness at 480-witness (480-948-6377).

 

 

“GOING TO THE CARDINALS GAME LITERALLY SAVED MY LIFE”
Waldo Salazar, One Lucky Man! 

Info Courtesy Glendale FD,  Photos Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Waldo Salazar, 74, Glendale Firefighter Daniel Valenzuela

 

GLENDALE, AZ. – The Arizona Cardinals scored a huge victory over the Atlanta Falcons last week but it was nothing like the victory celebrated by Waldo Salazar, 74, and his family. Last Saturday Mr. Salazar, an avid Cardinals fan, went to his very first Arizona Cardinals game. Just before the game began, he suffered from a cardiac arrest emergency. Glendale Firefighters, along with Southwest Ambulance, staff the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale for emergency medical services.

Glendale Fire Captains Scott Philips and John Good assisted Mr. Salazar with advanced life support protocols and CCC (continuous chest compressions) and transported him to Banner Estrella Hospital where he survived his cardiac arrest. He was discharged three days later.

Waldo Salazar said he enjoys every Cardinals game alone in his upstairs bedroom not to be interrupted by his grandchildren. Had he not gone to his very first Arizona Cardinals football game, he most likely would not have survived his cardiac arrest incident. “Going to the Cardinals game literally saved my life,” said Waldo Salazar. “We are all very appreciative of the Glendale Firefighters for what they did and the Cardinals for thinking ahead,” Salazar continued.

According to his wife, the first thing he asked after the incident was, “did the Cardinals win?”

Indeed! This fortunate event is an example of the readiness of Glendale Firefighters who staff University of Phoenix Stadium during events. 

 Glendale Fire Captain Ed Tirone, Southwest Ambulance Paramedic David Valarde, Gerry Benjamin, Waldo Salazar, Glendale Fire Captain Scott Phillips, Glendale Fire Captain John Good.

Glendale Firefighter Daniel Valenzuela, Waldo Salazar, Glendale Fire Captain Scott Phillips.

The Glendale Fire Department is asking everyone to install and check their smoke alarms as the 2008 holiday season and the start of 2009 may be recorded as one of the deadliest for residential fires. This is a nationwide effort.

Some examples quoted in a national Press release issued on  Jan 6th, thus the reference to  yesterday'

FIRE SERVICE LEADERSHIP TO ISSUE A NATIONAL CALL FOR WORKING SMOKE ALARMS TO PROTECT ALL RESIDENTS

“The 2008 holiday season and the start of 2009 may be recorded as one of the deadliest for residential fires in recent memory of the fire service,” said Cade. “Not only has there been a significant number of preventable fires, but the occurrences of multiple fatalities resulting from these fires are simply unacceptable within our nation. There should be a smoke alarm protecting every person in this nation today, particularly as we sleep.”

-  On Christmas Eve, four died in a house fire in Mount Sterling, Kentucky.  All of the victims were children and officials cannot be certain whether smoke alarms worked.

-   Four adults and three children died in a southwest Philadelphia home the day after Christmas when gasoline was used to fuel a kerosene heater. There were no working smoke alarms in the home.

-   In Baltimore, two people died in a fire above a grocery store.  A young couple died in the blaze and investigators found no working smoke alarms in the building.

-   In Washington, D.C. on New Year's Day, six individuals died in a house fire on Jackson Street, Northeast.  While the cause was listed as accidental/electrical, officials are not sure smoke alarms worked properly.

-   Yesterday, eight people died in a residential fire in Oswego County, New York.  The cause is still under investigation.

-   Yesterday, three people, including two teenage girls, died after an early morning house fire in Ringling, Oklahoma.  Officials say the fire started early Monday morning while at least two of the victims were still in bed. For the two teenage girls who lived inside the house, this was supposed to be their first day back to school after winter break. Officials say once flames broke out at 4 a.m., the girls, along with another relative, never made it out of the home.

Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00am – 11:00am, at the

SW corner of 43rd Ave and Peoria Ave (Target Center)

Glendale, AZ- The Citizens Police Academy Alumni of Glendale (CPAAG) was pleased to present its 1st Annual Summer Safety Fair. The Summer Safety Fair will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2009 from 8:00am – 11:00am, at the SW corner of 43rd Ave and Peoria Ave (Target Center) in Glendale, AZ. The Safety Fair is being hosted by the Glendale Target store, the Glendale Police Department, the Glendale Fire Department, and the Glendale Transportation Department.

Mayor Elaine Scruggs and Councilmembers Steve Frate and Joyce Clark were on hand to meet with attendees and the Police Explorers were out in force helping out with logistics and passing out water.

Mayor Elaine Scruggs stated: "The Citizens Police Academy Alumni of Glendale (CPAAG) did an outstanding job of presenting their first ever Summer Safety Fair. The event was wonderfully organized, provided a wide variety of useful information, and offered fun for the whole family." She added: " I want to thank them, the Target Store manager and personnel, and all the agencies and sponsors who worked together to create this important experience for the community."

Early in the morning Target staff comes bearing gifts!
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Steve Frate said,"The Citizens Police Academy Alumni did a great job welcoming people and assisting them during the safety fair. Those attending could tell the alumni were having fun while giving back to the community with their time and talent" He continues,"The Target Store parking lot was a great venue for the first citizens police academy safety fair. It was very visible from the street and many people visited the fair before or after shopping."

KNEELING - Stacy Schoch (Target liaison), Virginia Meeker, Becky Shady, Jerry Berntsen, John Bessler
2ND ROW - Sue Berntsen, Judy Fink, Suzanne Warsaw-Warner (white shirt), Monique Lesko, Mayor Scruggs, Joel Davis
THIRD ROW - Chris Rodriguez, Nelson Fink, Councilman Frate, Michael Cadiz, Milly Doolin, Nikki Colletti, Chief Conrad, Nancy Lennox, Al Lennox (behind pole), Ken Markstrom - Photo by Joel Davis - CPAAG member

Glendale Police Chief Steve Conrad looks out across the scene
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

We asked Glendale Police Chief Steve Conrad about the activities He told us' "This was a first for the Citizens Police Academy Alumni of Glendale. This group, which is a 501c3 non-profit corporation, is made up of graduates of the Glendale Police Department's Citizens Police Academy." He continued, "This group organized the entire event and invited our department, the Glendale Fire Department and Phoenix Police Department to participate ... I'm very proud of them!"

Bob Lasher assisting in the bike rodeo
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Safety Fairs are not just an event for adults! The best way to teach safety is to start with children when they are young, To this end, the kids who came to the event got a chance to experience a great bike rodeo, which the Foothills Patrol Division CAT personnel put together with the help of a couple of patrol officers from the Foothills Neighborhood Response Squad.

Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President, explains, "Education is also part of our mission. It is one way to assist officers and to create a safer community. We were very pleased to present this free Safety Fair to the public in partnership with our generous sponsors. "

She Continues, "Many thanks to Target for allowing us to use their location for easy access as well as their donations to Victims' Assistance. We also want to recognize all the agencies that participated. We are very grateful for their contributions and look forward to working with them again next year!"

Mario arrives
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

The alumni group used the fair to raise some funding to benefit the West Valley Advocacy Center (WVAC), which among other things, provides support to victims of crime in a safe and comfortable setting. During the event, donations of new children’s clothing and new small toys were accepted to benefit WVAC also.

Millie Doolin and Jason (Target) show off some of the goods
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

One item that is always a hit at any event is the legendary Glendale Fire Department Fire Safety House - training trailer and volunteers were on hand giving tours and safety tips.

ADD SOME FIRE DEPT QUOTES HERE DANNY?

Photos from the video footage of Telly award winning
fire_department_safety_house movie Staring Dennis Davis

The 'Safety House' trailer, or 'smoke trailer,' creates non-toxic smoke to help educate families on the importance of escape planning. Once in the trailer, families get some classroom time and are encouraged to stay low as they escape the smoke and flames.

http://www.glendaledailyplanet.com/media/fire_department_safety_house_movie_final1_150kbps.wmv

L to R Virginia Meeker, Becky Shady, Councilwoman Joyce Clark
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

ADD SOME Phoenix Police Department joined in and brought out three officers, one on his motorcycle.

In addition, for just great wild fun, there was an inflatable for the kids to play on

Officer photographs Police Explorer Scout and the 'tiny police cruiser' during fair setup
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Police toys?? Mini versions of the real thing!
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

After the event, we asked Chief Conrad what he thought was a 'unique' item at the fair, he smiled. "They has a small police car (child size - kind of like a go-cart) and a small police motorcycle. They were quite a sight!"

The doctor is "in" Therapy Dog!
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Southwest Ambulance
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Valley Metro brings a bus!
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Setting up SRP provided trash bins
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

Participating Organizations in the CPAAG Summer Safety Fair 2009

Valley Metro – (booth with bike safety materials, assisted with bike rodeo, had a Valley Metro bus on display).

L to R John Boone, Nikki Colletti, Councilman Steve Frate
Photo by Nikki Colletti, CPAAG President

ABOUT CPAAG -Membership and Sponsorship

The Citizens’ Police Academy Alumni of Glendale (CPAAG), a 501c3 non-profit organization is Glendale whose mission is to work in partnership with the City of Glendale Police Department and the residents of our community to help provide a safe and secure environment where the quality of life is enhanced through the delivery of police services.

Membership in the CPAAG is restricted to individuals that have graduated from the Glendale Citizens’ Police Academy. However, there are ways that Glendale businesses and community leaders can get involved and can support the mission of the CPAAG

To participate or be a sponsor of a future Summer Safety Fair, contact the CPAAG at 623-670-5710 or send email to cpaag@qwest.net

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Papa Ed's Ice Cream Donates over $125 to Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team  - Mystery  Customer Contributes Another $50 --- Everyone Had a 'DOG-GONE Good Time!'--

Photo By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Linda Moran-Whittley - Papa Ed's Ice Cream, Lynette Jelinek, "Topaz" the dog  and Karla Houston 
of the Glendale Fire Dept. Crisis Response Team.  Topaz is seen here guarding the cash! 
______________________________________________________________________

<Glendale Daily Planet  April 22, 2009>  Wednesday afternoon, Papa Ed's Ice Cream presented a check in the amount of $125.95 to the Glendale Fire Dept. Crisis Response Team.  Accepting the  contribution was Karla Houston, Crisis Response Program Coordinator,  Lynette Jelinek, and "Topaz" the dog from the Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team.

The "Tip Jar" sitting on the counter in the ice cream parlor has been designated specifically for this wonderful volunteer group from day one. 

Linda the owner of  Papa Ed's tells us. "Thanks to the generosity of our customers we were able to show our appreciation in a big way,  for all the valuable things this group does in our community."

The festive  enthusiasm spread quickly to a special visitor from Michigan who donated another $50.00 right on the spot!   

 A  partnership  between  an Ice Cream Shop and  Fire Department Crisis Response Team  is a unique entity. 

Karla Houston, Crisis Response Program Coordinator explains "Linda Whitley and I met about 2 years ago, before Papa Ed's was open for business.  She called and said she had money for the GFD CR Program and how would I like for her to get it to me.  I was thrilled and very appreciative.  She had read about our Volunteer Program in the paper and decided we were a good cause to donate to."

She continues, "It was right after Glendale’s Teddy Bear Day.  She had placed a jar out with our name on it, during that weekend and people just kept putting money in the jar.  When I went to pick up the check, and met Linda, it seemed like we had known each other forever (even though we had just met at that moment). "

Linda's building took quite a while to remodel to be used as an ice cream parlor. While this was  going on Karla tells us, "She (Linda) was out in her driveway with a Shamrock Ice Cream freezer giving ice cream away and all the people had to do was to donate to the CR Program!"

Photo By Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Linda Moran-Whittley - Papa Ed's Ice Cream and  Karla Houston 
of the Glendale Fire Dept.  Crisis Response Team.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK,  You liked Topaz? Here is a little  bit more about her!  

Be sure to check back files on the Glendale Daily Planet and back issues of the Glendale Star for other stories in this remarkable member of the Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response Team.

Topaz, Glendale's "FIRST CRISIS RESPONSE DOG"
Photo Courtesy Glendale Fire Department

The year and a half old yellow lab has been through extensive training and can actually sense when people are frightened or grieving. Topaz is used as a tool for communication. “He actually helps build a therapeutic bridge between the customer and the crisis interventionist,” said Lynette Jelinek, Glendale Fire Human Services Division Manager. “He helps lighten the mood, and bring in a calming effect to a situation that may seem out of control,” Jelinek continued.

Glendale Fire adopted the trained service dog from Paws with a Cause, an organization that trains various service animals for people with disabilities.

West Valley Hospital introduces advanced
interventional cardiac imaging

 

Goodyear, Ariz. (January 7, 2009) –  Heart disease is one of our nation’s most common health problems—the leading cause of death for Americans age 35 and older.  Introducing advancements in the medical technology used to diagnose and treat this condition is more critical than ever before at the Heart and Vascular Institute at West Valley Hospital.  In an effort to help our physicians provide faster and more efficient cardiac care to West Valley residents, the Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital opened a new state-of-the-art cardiac catheterization X-ray lab from Philips.

 

The Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital is now able to conduct minimally invasive procedures on the new system to treat a wide range of clinical problems including coronary artery disease—a leading cause of heart disorders in the U.S.  These catheter-based procedures may reduce the risks and recovery time found in traditional surgical approaches.  The benefits of catheter-based interventions include shorter hospital stays, reduced recovery time without the pain of a large incision, and less visible surgical scarring.  These procedures can be performed on both the heart and peripheral blood vessels.

 

Specifically, the Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital will use the Allura Xper FD20 X-ray system from Philips.  This fully digital system enables physicians to capture and view detailed 3D images of a patient’s cardiac vasculature, which facilitates faster and more accurate diagnosis and treatment of cardiac disease.  In addition, the Alllura system exposes patients to less radiation during the actual procedures than many other available systems.

 

“Both our patients and clinicians will benefit from the speed and excellent image accuracy of this new X-ray system,” explains Jo Adkins, CEO. “It will allow our physicians to complete a variety of diagnostic and interventional procedures faster, and that means the patient is off the table and on their way to recovery and discharge much sooner.  It also means less radiation exposure for the patient.”

 

This flexible system can aid in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of patient conditions and can be used for procedures such as diagnostic catheterizations, stenting, and balloon angioplasty. 

 

Interventional X-ray technology is a vital component in the future of medicine,” said Richard Fabian, vice president, diagnostic imaging, Philips Medical Systems, North America. “We are happy that the Allura system is offering clinicians at the Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital a new level of quality and detail in the clinical images that help them to offer patients safe and effective alternatives to major surgery.”

 

The Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital is located at 13677 West McDowell Road in Goodyear, Ariz. For more information about The Heart and Vascular Center at West Valley Hospital, please call 1-877-WVHSTAT or 623-882-1808.

 

About West Valley Hospital—West Valley Hospital is a 164-bed, acute care community hospital located in Goodyear, Arizona.  From state-of-the-art obstetrics and a full-service emergency department, to medical and surgical services, cardiovascular and intensive care, West Valley Hospital is dedicated to meeting the greatest needs in our communities by providing the most comprehensive healthcare available.  With exceptional people providing exceptional patient care, West Valley Hospital is fully accredited by the Joint Commission.

 

 

“GOING TO THE CARDINALS GAME LITERALLY SAVED MY LIFE”
Waldo Salazar, One Lucky Man! 

Info Courtesy Glendale FD,  Photos Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Waldo Salazar, 74, Glendale Firefighter Daniel Valenzuela

 

GLENDALE, AZ. – The Arizona Cardinals scored a huge victory over the Atlanta Falcons last week but it was nothing like the victory celebrated by Waldo Salazar, 74, and his family. Last Saturday Mr. Salazar, an avid Cardinals fan, went to his very first Arizona Cardinals game. Just before the game began, he suffered from a cardiac arrest emergency. Glendale Firefighters, along with Southwest Ambulance, staff the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale for emergency medical services.

Glendale Fire Captains Scott Philips and John Good assisted Mr. Salazar with advanced life support protocols and CCC (continuous chest compressions) and transported him to Banner Estrella Hospital where he survived his cardiac arrest. He was discharged three days later.

Waldo Salazar said he enjoys every Cardinals game alone in his upstairs bedroom not to be interrupted by his grandchildren. Had he not gone to his very first Arizona Cardinals football game, he most likely would not have survived his cardiac arrest incident. “Going to the Cardinals game literally saved my life,” said Waldo Salazar. “We are all very appreciative of the Glendale Firefighters for what they did and the Cardinals for thinking ahead,” Salazar continued.

According to his wife, the first thing he asked after the incident was, “did the Cardinals win?”

Indeed! This fortunate event is an example of the readiness of Glendale Firefighters who staff University of Phoenix Stadium during events. 

 Glendale Fire Captain Ed Tirone, Southwest Ambulance Paramedic David Valarde, Gerry Benjamin, Waldo Salazar, Glendale Fire Captain Scott Phillips, Glendale Fire Captain John Good.

Glendale Firefighter Daniel Valenzuela, Waldo Salazar, Glendale Fire Captain Scott Phillips.

The Glendale Fire Department is asking everyone to install and check their smoke alarms as the 2008 holiday season and the start of 2009 may be recorded as one of the deadliest for residential fires. This is a nationwide effort.

Some examples quoted in a national Press release issued on  Jan 6th, thus the reference to  yesterday'

FIRE SERVICE LEADERSHIP TO ISSUE A NATIONAL CALL FOR WORKING SMOKE ALARMS TO PROTECT ALL RESIDENTS

“The 2008 holiday season and the start of 2009 may be recorded as one of the deadliest for residential fires in recent memory of the fire service,” said Cade. “Not only has there been a significant number of preventable fires, but the occurrences of multiple fatalities resulting from these fires are simply unacceptable within our nation. There should be a smoke alarm protecting every person in this nation today, particularly as we sleep.”

-  On Christmas Eve, four died in a house fire in Mount Sterling, Kentucky.  All of the victims were children and officials cannot be certain whether smoke alarms worked.

-   Four adults and three children died in a southwest Philadelphia home the day after Christmas when gasoline was used to fuel a kerosene heater. There were no working smoke alarms in the home.

-   In Baltimore, two people died in a fire above a grocery store.  A young couple died in the blaze and investigators found no working smoke alarms in the building.

-   In Washington, D.C. on New Year's Day, six individuals died in a house fire on Jackson Street, Northeast.  While the cause was listed as accidental/electrical, officials are not sure smoke alarms worked properly.

-   Yesterday, eight people died in a residential fire in Oswego County, New York.  The cause is still under investigation.

-   Yesterday, three people, including two teenage girls, died after an early morning house fire in Ringling, Oklahoma.  Officials say the fire started early Monday morning while at least two of the victims were still in bed. For the two teenage girls who lived inside the house, this was supposed to be their first day back to school after winter break. Officials say once flames broke out at 4 a.m., the girls, along with another relative, never made it out of the home.

Truck crashes into a Circle K store Grand and 62nd Avenues

(GFD) Glendale Firefighters were called out to a reported car crash on Grand and 62nd Avenues on Wednesday, (01-07), at approximately 5:30 P.M. When firefighters arrived they noticed a truck that crashed into a Circle K store. Fortunately the two people inside the store were not harmed. Glendale firefighters treated the driver, a gentleman who is approximately 60 years old. Glendale Police is investigating the actual cause of the crash. It was not immediately known if the crash was caused by a medical condition or another reason. The truck did have a flat tire which may have played a role in this incident.

According to witnesses, the driver of the truck was driving in the left north bound lane on Grand Avenue when he lost control of his vehicle, swerved to the right and came into contact with two other vehicles and continued going. The truck just missed a motorcycle rider which was also headed north bound in the right lane on Grand Avenue. The truck then entered the Circle K parking lot, just missed the gas pumps and crashed into the Circle K Store.

“We don’t know all of the details of what caused this accident but this serves as a reminder to not become complacent while driving,” said Glendale Firefighter Daniel Valenzuela. “Because we never know when such incidents can occur it’s important to wear your seatbelts and keep your eyes on the road,” Valenzuela continued.

Story and Photos Courtesy  Glendale Fire Department  

Glendale Police PIO to Retire

Sgt. Jim Toomey Has Accepted PIO Position in Sonoma County, CA

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Sgt. Jim Toomey, the public information officer (PIO) for the Glendale Police Department, has announced his intention to retire. Toomey, 44, has accepted a new position as PIO for Sonoma County, California. His last work day will be January 9th. PIO duties will end January 5th.

“Obviously, I am very excited about this new opportunity, and I am thrilled to be moving to such a beautiful area of the country,” Toomey said. “At the same time, however, I am sad to be leaving Glendale, where I have lived and worked for over 30 years. I will certainly miss the relationships I have established throughout my life here.”

Originally from Chicago, Toomey moved to Glendale in 1978 and attended Apollo High School. He also worked as a lifeguard and diving coach for Glendale Parks & Recreation before joining the police department in 1988. He was promoted to Sergeant in 1997 and has served as PIO on and off for almost 14 years.

A ceremony to celebrate Toomey’s 21 years with Glendale PD was held Wednesday, Jan. 7th at 2 p.m. in the first floor classroom of Glendale PD. This event was attended by friends, family, co-workers, council members and members of the media.

The new  Glendale Police PIO's will be:  Det. Tara Simonson  and  Off. Phillip Washington

Jim, The Staff of Glendale Daily Planet all wishes you a great time in your new job and we enjoyed working with here in Glendale. Good luck in your new home! - Ed Sharpe, Publisher Glendale Daily Planet 

Movie yet to be edited - more stills and captions - check back!

GLENDALE FIRE DEPARTMENT

OFFERS SAFE HEATING TIPS

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – As temperatures drop throughout the Valley, many people are turning on their heaters and using their fireplaces for the first time this year. The Glendale Fire Department urges everyone to use caution as sometimes accidents can occur because of heating equipment.

National statistics show that December, January and February are the months when most home fires occur because of problems with space heaters, gas heaters, fireplaces or wood stoves. Following these tips will increase safety in your home:

Space heaters need space. Keep them at least three feet from anything that can burn such as curtains, blankets, clothing and furniture.

When buying a new space heater, make sure it has the mark of an independent test lab.

When turning a heating device on or off, follow the manufacturer's instructions.

When buying heaters, look for devices with automatic shut-off features.

Fireplaces, chimneys, chimney connectors, wood and coal stoves need to be inspected annually by a professional and cleaned as often as the inspections indicate.

A sturdy chimney screen will keep sparks from flying into the room.

Get on the roof and make sure no vines or debris are blocking the chimney opening or are in a position to catch on fire.

Fuel portable kerosene heaters in a well-ventilated area away from flames or other heat sources, and only when the device has cooled completely. Use only the type of kerosene specified by the manufacturer, and never use gasoline.

Do not burn holiday wrapping paper in the fireplace because the coating on it could cause a flash fire.

Hit and Run Information Requested

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Glendale Police are seeking information on a vehicle involved in two hit and run collisions that seriously injured a pedestrian, then rear ended another vehicle on 12/22/08 at approximately 6:00 pm.

Investigators believe the suspect vehicle was traveling westbound on W. Bethany Home Rd. when it struck an elderly pedestrian who was crossing the street near the 4800 block. The vehicle left the scene at a high rate of speed, then rear ended another vehicle near 5100 W. Bethany Home Rd. The pedestrian remains hospitalized with serious, but not life-threatening injuries.

Broken pieces of the suspect vehicle were recovered at the scene, which lead investigators to believe the suspect vehicle is a white 1998 or 1999 Nissan Altima. The suspect vehicle should have significant damage to the hood and front quarter panels. A witness followed the suspect vehicle for a time, but eventually lost it near 43rd and Myrtle Avenues.

“We’re very interested in hearing about any white Altimas with front end damage,” said Vehicular Crimes Detective Mindy Kevitt. “We would especially like to find this vehicle before the suspect attempts to have it repaired.”

A photo of a white Nissan Altima, which is similar to the suspect vehicle.

Anyone with information about these cases is asked to contact the Glendale Police 623-930-3000

Shop With A Cop Tuesday, Dec. 16th, 2008. 
Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Left Police Chief Steve Conrad - Destiny wanted to
 shop for her sister, brothers and parents first. 
 Started in toys, went to music, candles, then clothes 
and ended up back in toys. 

HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RAISE GIFTS FOR 
GLENDALE FIRE TOY & CLOTHING DRIVE
Story and photos by Glendale Fire Department

GLENDALE, AZ. Approximately 100 Copper Canyon High School students answered the challenge for the 5th consecutive year. The challenge- who could raise the most toys for tots? Two teams of students from the Sports Medicine Program and the Athlete Leadership Committee raised nearly 600 gifts ranging from books to games for underprivileged children. The friendly competition started on December 1st and ended today, December 12th. “Our students never cease to amaze me,” said Jennifer Bethea, Teacher and Head Athletic Trainer. “The drive and leadership instilled in each of them along with their desire to simply help those in need is inspirational,” Mrs. Bethea added.

 

 

Glendale Firefighters visited Copper Canyon High on Friday, December 12th, to thank the students and collect the toys for tots. Glendale Firefighters will place those items with the items currently being collected for Glendale Fire’s 7th Annual Toy and Clothing Drive. All of the items collected will be given to hundreds of families in need of help this Holiday Season. Glendale Firefighters also contribute to the Boys and Girls Club, and The West Valley Child Crisis Center among other agencies. “We commend these students for their hard work and willingness to help their fellow neighbor,” said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. “Some credit must be given to their teachers, Jennifer Bethea and Kelly Mathews, for helping to instill such positive values in our youth,” Chief Burdick continued. Glendale Firefighters will be located at K-Mart on 67th Avenue and Bell Road on December 20th for the third and final Saturday of the Glendale Firefighters 7th Annual Toy & Clothing Drive.

 

 

 Fire Station #151: 7505 N. 55th Ave.

 Fire Station #152: 6850 W. Bethany Home Rd.

 Fire Station #153: 14061 N. 59th Ave.

 Fire Station #154: 4439 W. Peoria

 Fire Station #155: 6255 W. Union Hills

 Fire Station #156: 6801 W. Deer Valley

 Fire Station #157: 9658 N. 59th Ave.

 Fire Station #158: 6261 N. 83rd Ave.

 Fire Stations #159: 17159 N. 63rd Ave.

 Glendale Fire Marshal’s Office: 5800 W Glenn Dr. Ste. 350 (during business hours)

NEW TV SHOW FEATURES

“GLENDALE’S HOME GREEN HOME”

Arizona’s First Affordable Platinum Green House

GLENDALE, Ariz. –As the holidays grow near, TV viewers in Glendale can watch a true “miracle on 54th Avenue” as the Acosta family receives a newly constructed, healthy, green home from Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona.

Emmy-Award winning Glendale 11 airs on Cox and Qwest Channel 11, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Glendale 11’s TV guide can be found at www.glendaleaz.com/glendale11 and also will list additional times of “Home Green Home.”

GLENDALE FIRE INTRODUCES FIRST
CRISIS RESPONSE DOG

GLENDALE, AZ. – Glendale Fire Department Crisis Response (CR) Program has recently entered its seventh year of service in the community and has made an important addition to the team. The team of crisis response volunteers welcomes Topaz, the first crisis response dog to work with a fire department.

The year and a half old yellow lab has been through extensive training and can actually sense when people are frightened or grieving. Topaz is used as a tool for communication. “He actually helps build a therapeutic bridge between the customer and the crisis interventionist,” said Lynette Jelinek, Glendale Fire Human Services Division Manager. “He helps lighten the mood, and bring in a calming effect to a situation that may seem out of control,” Jelinek continued.

Glendale Fire adopted the trained service dog from Paws with a Cause, an organization that trains various service animals for people with disabilities.

“The mission statement of the Glendale Fire Department is - Fast, Caring, Innovative, and Professional. The Crisis Response team and Topaz fall in line with our overall mission of serving the community,” said Mark Burdick, Glendale Fire Chief.

Topaz was dispatched to an Avondale seen this morning when a school bus, transporting 40 children, was involved in an auto accident. One child was transported to a valley hospital to be checked out. Many students were shaken by the event and were taken to school using a separate bus. When the students arrived to Wigwam Creek Middle School in Litchfield Park, they were greeted by the Glendale Fire Crisis Response Team and Topaz. “Somehow the focus was taken off of the incident itself and put on to this dog,” said Cathy Butt, School Assistant Principle. “We were all so thankful for Topaz and the Glendale Crisis Response Team,” Ms. Butt continued. For more information on the Glendale Fire Crisis Response team, please visit our website at www.glendaleaz.com/fire.

 

**Topaz was dispatched to an Avondale seen this morning when a school bus, transporting 40 children, was involved in an auto accident. One child was transported to a valley hospital to be checked out. Many students were shaken by the event and were taken to school using a separate bus. When the students arrived to Wigwam Creek Middle School in Litchfield Park , they were greeted by the Glendale Fire Crisis Response Team and Topaz. “Somehow the focus was taken off of the incident itself and put on to this dog,” said Cathy Butt, School Assistant Principle. “We were all so thankful for Topaz and the Glendale Crisis Response Team, Ms. Butt continued...

Photo -  Glendale Fire Crisis Responder, Lynette Jelinek, with Topaz and
 a group of middle school students after today's bus crash.

 

Photo - Topaz at work.

---

Ok let's get some bad news out of the way!

 

ARMED ROBBERY OF OXYCONTIN / OXYCODONE

 

　

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Detectives from the Glendale Police Department are seeking information on locating a man who robbed the Fry’s Food Store Pharmacy located at 4329 W. Northern Ave. at gun point on 01/06/09 at approximately 1:20 pm.

The man approached the pharmacy counter, pointed a handgun at the pharmacist, and demanded all of the oxycodone. He then jumped over the counter and pointed the gun at the pharmacist’s side as the narcotics were being obtained. The male placed a large amount of oxycontin / oxycodone into a gym bag and fled the scene on foot.

The man is being described as a white male approximately 18 years of age, 5’9” in height, thin build, wearing a black baseball cap with the word “Security” in white lettering written on the front of it. He was also wearing a brown hooded sweatshirt, a white t-shirt, and sunglasses.

 

The included images are photos of the man during the commission of the crime.

 

        

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the Glendale Police Department at 623-930-3000 or Silent Witness at 480-948-8377.

Police Investigating Possible Kidnapping

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Detectives from the Glendale Police Department are seeking facts from anyone who can provide information on the location of a male who was possibly kidnapped between Thursday 01/08/09 at 9 pm and Friday 01/09/09 at 1am.

Glendale Police are looking for Heriberto Avilez-Monrez, a 29 year old Hispanic male, 5’8” in height, weighing 180 pounds, with short black hair, and brown eyes. Avilez-Monrez may have been kidnapped while driving from his place of business, which is in the area of 35th Ave. and McDowell Rd., to his residence in Glendale. Avilez-Monrez may have been driving his tan colored 2002 four door Chevy Impala with an unknown license plate.

Anyone with information related to this case or who has knowledge of the whereabouts of Avilez-Monrez is asked to call the Glendale Police Department at 623-930-3000 or Silent Witness at 480-948-8377.

---

Missing / Endangered Man

FOUND! – A missing Glendale man, Donald Washington 49 years old, was found by Phoenix Police Department. Phoenix Police officers found him in the area of 300 East Jefferson in good condition and in good spirits. Washington said he took a bus to this area for reasons unknown. Washington was reported missing from a group home on Sunday (1/11/2009) at approximately 4:20 pm. It was reported he suffered from severe diabetes and diminished mental capacity. Washington was returned safely to his group home.

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is asking for help in locating a 49 year-old man who suffers from a traumatic brain injury, is severely diabetic, and cannot care for himself.

The man, Donald Washington, is a black male, 49 years of age, 6 feet tall, weighing about 200 pounds. He was last seen wearing an orange sweatshirt, blue checkered pajama pants, and a black Washington DC baseball cap. Mr. Washington left his adult group home today (01/11/09) at approximately 4:20 pm. The group home is located in the area of 5700 W. Peoria Ave.

The attached photo of Mr. Washington was taken within the last year.

Numerous police officers are actively searching for Mr. Washington, but we are also asking for help from the public in learning his whereabouts.

Anyone with information about Donald Washington is asked to call Glendale Police at 623-930-3000.

out of date for  archive only

GLENDALE, Ariz. – This Saturday marks the seventh year in a row that Glendale Firefighters will be putting on their Santa hats as they host a clothing and toy drive for children and families in need this Holiday Season.

Glendale Firefighters will be at K-Mart, located at 67th Avenue and Bell Road on each of the next three Saturdays; Dec. 6th, 13th, and 20th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for this year’s Glendale Firefighter’s Holiday Toy & Clothing Drive.

The request is that the toys and clothes be new. The items in need include: socks, underwear and jackets (for all ages), plus blankets, pillows and toys. The age group in most need is between the ages of six and 14.

“Many people are quick to give credit to the Glendale Firefighters for these efforts but the credit truly belongs to those who come out to support this event each year,” said Glendale Battalion Chief Gary Benson, organizer of the annual event. “This has been a great way for many families to benefit on behalf of our community and we’re just happy to be a part of it,” Chief Benson added.

The Glendale Firefighter’s Holiday Toy and Clothing Drives have collected between $30,000 and $50,000 in merchandise in each of the last 6 year. Last year, Glendale Firefighters assisted more than 500 families and collected more than $38,000 worth of new clothing and toys for children and families in need.

For those who cannot make it out to the Glendale Firefighter’s Holiday Toy and Clothing Drive at K-Mart, drop off sites have been set-up at all nine Glendale fire stations and the Glendale Fire Marshal’s Office. Those locations are:

Fire Station #151: 7505 N. 55th Ave.

Fire Station #152: 6850 W. Bethany Home Rd.

Fire Station #153: 14061 N. 59th Ave.

Fire Station #154: 4439 W. Peoria

Fire Station #155: 6255 W. Union Hills

Fire Station #156: 6801 W. Deer Valley

Fire Station #157: 9658 N. 59th Ave.

Fire Station #158: 6261 N. 83rd Ave.

Fire Stations #159: 17159 N. 63rd Ave.

Glendale Fire Marshal’s Office: 6835 N. 57th Dr. (during business hours)

 

Three Fire Stories! One Great Ice Cream Parlor!

Crisis Response Teams 6th Birthday Party!

Presentation of  Money to the Crisis Response Unit 

John Edmonson, Volunteer of the Month

(C) 2008 Ed Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

Glendale Daily Planet - Glendale Fire's Crisis Response (CR) Program celebrated its sixth anniversary on Saturday, November 1st. The celebration was held in at Papa Ed's Ice Cream Parlor in historic downtown Glendale. CR volunteers, friends and families were treated to free ice cream courtesy of a donation from Papa Ed’s Ice Cream and Har-Bro West, Inc. 

Papa Ed’s Ice Cream has been a strong supporter of the volunteer team since  the parlor's inception September 2007. The ice cream parlor formally opened on 5/10/08 and has been waiting for an opportunity to celebrate the efforts of this special group. 

Papa Ed's Ice Cream presented a donation to the CR Program of funds that were raised during Glendale's Teddy Bear Day event a few months ago.  They will also donate proceeds of their 'flavor of the month' to the Crisis Response program.

Har-Bro West, Inc.  General Contractors have been working with the Glendale Fire Dept. Crisis Response Team for the past six months, working side by side to provide  on-site resources for fire and disaster victims. 

Glendale Fire's Crisis Response program is primarily staffed by volunteers and respond to calls that involve victims, trauma, and grief. CR units are staffed with 2-3 volunteers and are stocked with blankets, resources, water, snacks, and other times needed in a time of crisis.

 "Glendale Fire thanks this group of special individuals for the heartfelt contribution of their time," said Glendale Fire Chief Mark Burdick. "Before this program existed, firefighters would respond to fires or other tragic scenes and will do a good job managing the scene for the benefit of those who needed our help. Eventually our firefighters would have to get back on the truck and wait for the next emergency. We felt there was a gap in the service we provided. The Crisis Response program fills that gap," Chief Burdick continued. 

"The Crisis Response program allows the Glendale Fire Department to provide seamless customer service to those individuals and families that we respond to, to  help out," Chief Burdick added.

Megan Ferguson, CR Recruitment Coordinator C-Shift,  shows off the Crisis Response table display before the guests arrived  for the Crisis Response team's 6th birthday Party!

Lynette Jennek, Karla Houston, Linda Whittley, Megan Ferguson
 and Elio Pompa Glendale West Deputy Fire Chief  discuss the the group's birthday.

Ryan Farley - Har-bro General Contractors,  Karla Houston and Linda Whittley
Ryan and Linda Present a check to Karla. 

Papa Ed's Ice Cream presented a donation to the CR Program of funds that were raised during Glendale's Teddy Bear Day event a few months ago.  They will also donate proceeds of their 'flavor of the month' to CR.

 Karla Houston,  John Edmonson, named 'Volunteer of the Quarter' for the Crisis Response Unit
 and Linda Whittley of Papa Ed's Ice Cream Parlour.

Papa Ed's provided the Ice cream and water for the festivities shown 
L to R: Jakie Fritz, Charlotte Dahlen and Heather Fritz

Armed Burglary Suspects Possibly Fleeing to Oregon

CAUGHT!

 

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is asking for help in locating two suspects who may be attempting to flee to Oregon. The suspects are identified as Jeremiah Ray Weddel (w/m 5/20/84) and Kera Ann Mays (w/f 6/24/87). Their photos are attached.

On May 5th, 2008, Weddel and Mays, along with a third suspect, burglarized an apartment at 6755 N. 83rd Avenue. In the course of the burglary, they stole a shotgun from the apartment. When two of the victims returned home and interrupted the burglary, the suspects escaped by jumping off the second story balcony. During the course of this confrontation, Weddel chambered a shotgun shell and pointed the gun at one of the victims. The suspects were later located a short distance away and arrested. The victims’ property was recovered.

Weddel and Mays were convicted yesterday afternoon (12/1) of Armed Burglary and Aggravated Assault. Felony warrants have been issued for their immediate apprehension. Investigators have information the two were planning to flee to Oregon to avoid being sent to prison. Efforts to locate them have been unsuccessful, though they were possibly seen this morning (12/2) at Weddel’s apartment at 7111 N. 75th Avenue. Mays reportedly keeps an apartment near 15th and Glendale Avenues in Phoenix. The two do not have a known vehicle.

Weddel is a white male, 24 years old, 6 feet tall, and 180 pounds. He has blonde hair and blue eyes.

Mays is a white female, 21 years old, 5 feet 6 inches tall, and 112 pounds. She has brown hair and green eyes. Weddel is a violent person with a long criminal history. He should be treated with extreme caution.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Glendale Police Department at 623-930-3000.

A Veterans Day Message

From VA Secretary Dr. James B. Peake

WASHINGTON -- Ninety years ago today, the guns fell silent in Europe.
World War I - the "war to end all wars" - was over.  Almost five million
Americans served during that first modern, mechanized war.  Our last
living link with them, 107-year-old Army veteran Frank Buckles, observes
this Veterans Day at his farm in West Virginia.

It is important, on Veterans Day, for all Americans to reflect on the
service and sacrifice of our veterans, from Mr. Buckles to the men and
women who recently fought for us in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Their
bravery, their resourcefulness, and their patriotism mark them as our
nation's finest citizens.

Since 2001, the President and Congress have provided the Department of
Veterans Affairs (VA) with a 98 percent increase in funding, and with
the guidance and support to enable VA to honor America's debt to the men
and women whose patriotic service and sacrifice have kept our nation
free and prosperous; to provide them with medical and financial help
when they need it most; and to build and maintain beautiful national
cemeteries to perpetuate their memory and their accomplishments.

During this Administration, VA has met the challenge of a new generation
of veterans: those tempered by war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and those
who have defended America's interests elsewhere while their comrades
served in combat.

The Benefits Delivery at Discharge program serves these separating
service members at 154 locations, assisting them to file for VA
disability benefits.  To further help these men and women, a new
insurance benefit is in place to assist them with the costs of living
with traumatic injury; life insurance coverage has increased by
$100,000; and the time it takes to process requests for education
benefits has been reduced from 50 days to less than 20.



One hundred Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have been hired to reach out
to their fellow veterans throughout the nation and tell them about the
benefits and services VA offers.  Federal Recovery Coordinators are on
board, actively engaged in helping severely injured veterans and their
families navigate our system for health care and financial benefits.
Our Vet Centers now provide bereavement counseling to families of those
who have given their lives in the war against terror, and we've provided
health care to nearly 350,000 new veterans-about 40 percent of all
separated war veterans.

Our program to screen all veterans coming to us who served in Iraq and
Afghanistan for possible traumatic brain injury is giving us great
insight into how best to serve these men and women.  Those who screen
positive are referred for a comprehensive medical evaluation to confirm
the diagnosis, and are quickly and appropriately treated.  For those
with very severe injuries like brain injury, amputations, visual
impairment and burns, we've established Polytrauma Rehabilitation
Centers in Richmond, Va, Tampa, Fla., Minneapolis and Palo Alto, Calif.,
to provide the very finest, state-of-the-art care.  They are examples of
great cooperation across the continuum of care with the Department of
Defense.

While caring for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans has been among VA's most
important priorities, we continue to provide the full spectrum of care
and benefits to our veterans of other eras.  Since 2001, we've reduced
our average number of days required to completely process a claim from a
high of 233 days in 2002 to 162 days today and have reduced the number
of disability claims pending from 432,000 in 2002 to 384,500 through a
combination of process improvements, increased staffing and improved
training.  We've placed particular emphasis on adjudicating claims for
veterans aged 70 or older.  Our home loan guaranty limit has increased
from $203,000 to as much as $729,750, providing a better opportunity for
veterans who want to own a home.  The programs to deal with the issue of
veteran homelessness have measurably paid off, reducing the number of
homeless veterans by nearly 40 percent from 2001 to 2007.

The number of veterans enrolled in VA health care has increased from 4.8
million to 7.8 million in the past eight years.  Their care is provided
by the Veterans Health Administration, an organization that excels in
the provision of high quality health care, that has set benchmarks in
patient satisfaction in the American Customer Satisfaction Index for
seven consecutive years; that has substantially cut waiting times and
improved access to care throughout the nation; and that has set, and
met, a standard of 24 hours for initial assessment and a 14-day standard
for comprehensive assessment of new mental health patients, thanks to
more than 4,100 mental health professionals hired in the last five
years.

VA leads the nation in the development and use of electronic health
records, receiving the coveted "Innovations Award" from Harvard
University's John F. Kennedy School of Government in 2006.  We've laid
the groundwork for sharing electronic records with the Department of
Defense, launched a web-based application to allow patients and their
families to interact with VA physicians over the Internet, and worked
hard to set the "gold standard" for health information security to
protect the vital personal information veterans entrust to us.

Addressing readjustment needs and rural access, we have announced plans
to place at least one Vet Center in every county in which there are
50,000 or more veterans.  We are also purchasing fifty "mobile Vet
Centers"-vans which will travel to rural areas throughout the nation to
bring Vet Center services to veterans in rural and highly rural areas;
we're also in the process of expanding our community-based outpatient
clinics to a total of 782, an increase of 100 in five years.

Our National Shrine Program has uplifted the beauty of our cemeteries,
and by the end of 2009 six new national cemeteries will have opened for
burials, adding to the six cemeteries we have already opened since 2001.

I am proud of this great record of accomplishment, prouder still of the
approximately 270,000 men and women of VA who daily fulfill President
Lincoln's promise to care for veterans and their families; and proudest
to have had the opportunity to serve men and women like Frank Buckles,
whose dedicated service to our nation in all its wars has enabled
generations of Americans to live their lives in freedom.

Officer David C. Goitia  Partner of Fallen Officer Anthony Holly, Honored With Medal of  Valor by President George Bush  and Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey in Washington D.C.

ATTORNEY GENERAL HONORS MEDAL OF VALOR RECIPIENTS

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Michael B. Mukasey today honored the nation's Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor recipients during a special ceremony at the Department of Justice.  Earlier today, President George W. Bush presented the Medals of Valor during a White House ceremony in the Oval Office. 

The Medal of Valor is the highest national award for valor by a public safety officer.  It recognizes heroic action performed above and beyond the call of duty.  The Attorney General honored five recipients from the nation's federal and local law enforcement agencies. 

        “These men faced life-threatening  situations with composure and extraordinary courage, and in one case a Department employee gave his life,” said Attorney General Mukasey.  “They all put their lives on the line to protect their communities, and for that we owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude.”

       
The recipients of the 2006-2007 Medal of Valor are Cmdr. Miguel G. Galvez, Opa-Locka Police Department, Fla.; Officer David C. Goitia, Glendale Police Department, Ariz.; Detective Raymond Robertson, Miami-Dade Police Department; Special Agent William Sentner, III (Deceased), U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the Inspector General, Investigations Division, Miami Field Office, Fla.; and Lieutenant Carlos J. Thompson, Mobile County Sheriff's Office, Ala.  Also in attendance was firefighter Brian D. Rothell from the Chesterfield Fire and Emergency Medical Services in Chesterfield, Va.  Rothell is a recipient of the 2005-2006 Medal of Valor, but was not able to attend the ceremony last year. 

        The Medal of Valor, authorized by the Public Safety Medal of Valor Act of 2001, is awarded by the President of the United States to public safety officers cited by the Attorney General.  Public safety officers are nominated by the chiefs or directors of their employing agencies and recommended by the Medal of Valor Review Board.

        Additional information about the award, the design and image of the Medal of Valor, the board members, and the nomination process can be found on the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) Web site at http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/medalofvalor.  Descriptions of this year’s winners are also attached.

Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor

Synopses of Acts of Valor

Commander Miguel G. Galvez and Detective Raymond Robertson:  On Friday, Oct. 13, 2006, Detective Miguel Galvez of the Opa-Locka, Fla., Police Department and Detective Raymond Robertson of the Miami-Dade, Fla., Police Department were engaged in surveillance activities for a narcotics operation.  Having received information that large quantities of narcotics and firearms were being stored in an abandoned apartment in the area, they drove to the apartment complex’s parking lot.  A subject approached their vehicle holding a firearm.  Robertson attempted to back out of the lot, but another vehicle blocked their route of escape by intentionally rear-ending their vehicle.  The initial subject then opened the driver’s side door and began firing his weapon.  During the subsequent exchange of gunfire, the subject was hit once in the abdomen and fell to the ground a short distance from the driver’s side door of the detectives’ vehicle.  While lying on the ground, the subject continued to fire shots in the direction of the detectives’ vehicle.  At this point, two additional subjects began shooting at the detectives.  Still trapped inside their vehicle, the detectives were now being fired at by three subjects simultaneously.

During this exchange of gunshots, Robertson was shot multiple times.  He was first shot in the right forearm, forcing him to switch his gun to his non-dominant hand, then in his left forearm.  Even though he was losing strength in both of his hands, he managed to exchange magazines and continue firing.  Another shot grazed his right ear, and he was shot three times in the chest area, which was protected by a bulletproof vest.  In an effort to take cover outside of the vehicle, Galvez began to exit the passenger side but was struck in the leg when the subject vehicle rammed the passenger door, causing him to drop his firearm.  Despite his injuries, Robertson covered Galvez as Galvez escaped through a hole in the fence.  Detective Robertson also made a run to safety.  They raced about 100 yards to a convenience store, with the subjects in pursuit.  Robertson, who was losing consciousness, relinquished his firearm to Galvez, who kept the subjects at bay and called for back-up. 

The initial subject attempted to run from the scene and was found dead in the rear of the parking lot.  After an investigation, the two additional subjects were identified and arrested, and were awaiting trial at the time of the nomination.  Both subjects had extensive criminal pasts. 

Officer David C. Goitia:  On Monday, Feb. 19, 2007, Officer David Goitia of the Glendale, Ariz., Police Department, and his partner Officer Anthony Holly, stopped a car, had fictitious license plates and was occupied by three subjects.  A male passenger, who had falsely identified himself, was being extracted from the car for further investigation when the subject suddenly produced a gun and fired at Holly, fatally striking him in the head.  A gun battle then raged along the street for more than 50 feet, during which time the assailant, a wanted felon, fired multiple shots at Goitia, who returned fire and struck the suspect in the leg.  Still armed, the assailant crawled away while continuing to fire at Goitia.  Goitia, with little regard for his own safety and at great risk, abandoned the cover of a nearby car to return to Officer Holly’s side to render aid.  Knowing that Officer Holly was critically injured, Goitia dragged his wounded partner for more than 50 feet out of the line of fire and to a position of cover.  He then directed emergency services to evacuate Holly to a nearby fire department unit.  Efforts to save Holly were not successful as he had died instantly.  The assailant was subsequently taken into custody.

Lieutenant Carlos J. Thompson:  On Friday, Jan. 26, 2007, Lt. Carlos Thompson of the Mobile County, Ala. Sheriff's Office attempted to perform a traffic stop on a vehicle matching the description of a suspect vehicle involved in an armed robbery.  The driver subsequently fled the scene at a high rate of speed.  At an intersection, the driver ran through the stop sign, made a 180-degree turn and stopped his vehicle, facing Thompson.  The suspect began firing an assault rifle, striking Thompson and seriously wounding him in his lower leg and hip, rendering him unable to exit his patrol car.  While returning fire, Thompson was struck in the right elbow by gunfire, which forced him to reload his weapon with his weak hand to continue to return fire.  As the suspect approached on foot, Thompson, using his weak hand, was able to fatally wound the suspect.  Though seriously injured, Thompson was able to direct his fellow deputies arriving on the scene, ensuring that the area was secure and any evidence was protected.

Special Agent William Sentner, III (deceased):  On Wednesday, June 21, 2006, Special Agent William Sentner of the Miami Field Office, Investigations Division, Office of Inspector General (OIG) was working with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in an investigation involving corrupt prison guards in a federal prison facility in Tallahassee, Fla.  As a result of the investigation, six prison guards were indicted for sexually abusing female inmates, smuggling contraband into the institution and threatening the inmates with retaliation if they exposed the criminal acts.  Sentner was part of the joint OIG/FBI team that went to the prison to arrest the six guards.  At the prison, as one of the guards was being arrested, he produced a gun from his bag and began firing.  The guard shot a prison lieutenant in the stomach and then shot Sentner.  Before the guard was able to fire at other personnel, Sentner returned fire, fatally wounding him.  Sentner subsequently succumbed to his gunshot wound.  In his last act, Sentner saved the lives of several other law enforcement officers while sacrificing his own.

ASSISTANT POLICE CHIEF DEBORA BLACK JOINS NATIONAL EFFORT 
TO COMBAT CRIME OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

(GPD) GLENDALE, Ariz. - Assistant Chief Debora Black has been chosen as one of 23 law enforcement executives from across the country to participate in a National Law Enforcement Leadership Institute on Violence Against Women hosted by The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). Through the Institute experience, IACP intends to raise the response to violence against women crimes higher on law enforcement’s agenda and support the adoption of best practices by the officers in the Glendale Police Department.

During the three-day Institute taking place in Atlanta, GA, Assistant Chief Debora Black, along with the other selected participants, will explore innovative approaches for investigating crimes of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. Additional attention will center on assessing agency performance and sharing challenges and solutions with law enforcement colleagues.

In an effort to help law enforcement agencies enhance their response to crimes of violence against women, the Institute will focus on planning and methods for effective resource allocation to help crime victims and hold perpetrators accountable. The participating law enforcement executives will be engaged in the development of action plans throughout the Institute in order to adopt new strategies for pro-active coordinated community collaboration upon returning to their departments.

Expenses for participants to attend the Institute are covered under a grant to the IACP from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women.

# # #

The International Association of Chiefs of Police is the world's oldest and largest non-profit membership organization of police executives, with over 21,000 members in 100 different countries. IACP's membership consists of the operating chief executives of international, federal, Tribal, state, campus, and local agencies of all sizes. Please visit www.theiacp.org for more information.

 

 

MAY 7th... Photos By Ed Sharpe

Mock DUI crash scene sobering
effect on Glendale students

Ironwood High School 05/09/2008
Text by Ed Sharpe and  Daniel Valenzuela Photos by Ed Sharpe unless otherwise  indicated.

The Glendale Fire and Police Departments along with Southwest Ambulance teamed up with Ironwood High School to show the impact of bad decision making and to raise awareness of driving under the influence on Friday, May 09, 2008.

The mock scene took place at the Ironwood football field in front of over 1,000 students. The scenario was a two car collision at a nearby intersection. In one car, an Ironwood school teacher who was driving home to be with her family after working late on a Friday night. The second car contained four high school students driving from one party to another while under the influence of alcohol.

The scenario continues, when the school teacher stopped at a red light and was hit head on by the group of high school students after they ran a red light. The school teacher was badly hurt and required treatment and transport by Glendale firefighters to a trauma center with an air ambulance (HALO-151). Glendale Firefighters and Southwest Ambulance Crews treated the four students which were all badly injured with one student not surviving the crash. The driver was the high school quarterback and went from a full ride athletic scholarship to being in the middle of a crime scene.

As the scenario continued, the audience received a play by play announcement of what was going on by Glendale Fire’s Daniel Valenzuela and Sergeant Joe Turitto of the Glendale Police Department. Both gentlemen shared a microphone as they gave their thoughts on how this will affect all of those in the scenario including each victim, their friends and families.

“This is a scene that is far too common not only in the city of Glendale but throughout the Valley", said Daniel Valenzuela, Glendale Firefighter. “Hopefully this scenario will cause each of these young men and women to make the right decisions as they end their school year and enjoy their summer vacations,” Valenzuela added.

The family of the "dead" student was her actual family participated in the 
mock DUI.  The mock up was so realistic, the mom and sister were visibly upset.

The DUI Quarterback is taken into custody.

The officer leading the QB suspect away is Officer Duane Trier. 

The officer walking behind them is Officer Gary Bohannon.
Photo by Sgt. Jim Toomey

Technician  is Officer Kris Steffafrom GPD  using an
 optical measuring to device out the position of 
vehicles for the police report. - Photo by Ed Sharpe

The dead student is removed from the scene in the medical examiners wagon... the final one way trip. See the neat little shelf that you as a dead person get to ride on.  Photo by Ed Sharpe

“As police officers, we have a zero tolerance for drinking and driving,” said Joe Turitto, Glendale Police Sergeant. “We are just hoping the right decisions are made because it saves lives,” Turitto continued.

“I hope this scenario teaches the students of the harm of drinking and driving,” said Heather Thompson of Southwest Ambulance.

2 Photos Above  Sgt. Joe Turrito GPD Narrating the program,  Lower shot Heather Thompson from Southwest Ambulance and Sgt: Joe Turitto discuss the  progress of the program as it unfolded.
Photo by Ed Sharpe

In Arizona there are 140,000 car collisions each year, 68,000 injuries and 1,500 fatalities. Over 370 of these fatalities are people under the age of 20. There were 40 fatalities in the City of Glendale last year.

The Media, The Crews...

Above: Ed Sharpe, Glendale Daily Planet / KKAT- IPTV Interviews Sgt. Joe Turitto Glendale Police Department  During a Mock DUI Presentation at Ironwood High School. Photo by Heather Thompson