News May 6, 2009
"Making The Impossible, Possible, By Monika K Valencia"
Every now and then you run into a really special person. I would like to introduce an energetic, passionate, young woman. When I first met this young lady, I thought, "she is one of the most positive people I have ever met." She is just one of those people that literally lights up a room when she enters. Her name is Sara Ford and I hope she can inspire you as she has me. It hasn't always been easy for Sara. See Sara is an exmeth addict, and one of the worst. Sara, like so many teens started Making The Impossible, Possible By Monika K Valencia smoking marijuana when she was 14. And yeah, no big deal, it was every now and then. Once she got a little older she became involved in an abusive relationship, and as so many times it happens, they became users together. When I sat down with Sara I asked, "how did you do it? Did you hit rock bottom?" "Well, she said, going to jail was the best thing for me. After 3 weeks the fog lifted and I was able to think clearly.” When she was incarcerated and her father would bring her children every Friday for visitation, and her son would not speak to her. "I didn’t want my son to hate me or for CPS to take my children away from me". It was a major turning point in her life. She reminisced back to when CPS, Probation, and her father were continuously on her back and now that she can think clearly, they weren't there to hurt her, but they were there to do everything they could to help her, and never giving up on her. Sara has been sober since July 25th, 2005. Now May 2009, she will be graduating from college with an Associate's degree in Liberal Arts Studies and plans on going back to get her Bachelor's Degree in Substance Abuse, and she does it all, while holding down a full time job. So, yes I know what you are thinking. How! How is this possible. Well, for Sara jail was the beginning of her journey. Sara started to focus on her recovery. She went to an inpatient rehab facility, and once she was released she started intensive outpatient therapy. And it was a fight the whole way, but with good support and her mind-set, she came through. "Keeping involved in the community and volunteering was one of the best things for me, and having faith and prayer play a big part." Sara also said setting goals and obtaining them no matter how big or small, helps keep you focused in a positive direction. There are so many things that you can do to get focused in the right direction; you just have to fi nd what you're passionate about and go for it." Sara advises "to seek help, there are many local places to go to: Horizon Human Services, Community Bridges, and even a crisis help line. And for families that are going through this with a loved one, remember be supportive, but don't enable." Sara would like to send a personal thank you to the following: Adult Probation, Globe CPS, Globe officers Hudson and Durnan, Gila County Sheriff, the wonderful people at Horizon Human Services: Billie, Sanna, Jennifer, Judy, Melodee, Janice Neely and My family and friends.
Fallen Globe Officer Among Those Honored
Ten of Arizona's exemplary Correctional Officers joined Gov. Jan Brewer as she proclaimed this week as Correctional Officer Week in Arizona . The Arizona Department of Corrections officers protect the public, hold inmates accountable and improve our communities' safety. They perform their duties in a demanding, and potentially dangerous environment, under less than ideal circumstances, to fulfill their responsibilities and protect the citizens of Arizona During National Correctional Officer Week, ADC is proud to participate in this celebration and recognize the excellence with which the state's Correctional Officers perform their duties. Correctional Officers have been honored in Arizona during the first full week of May since 1985. Correctional Officer Douglas Falconer was also honored during the 36th Annual Peace Officers Memorial Service over the weekend (May 1st) at Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza . Officer Falconer, who served on ASPC-Phoenix/Globe's Inmate Wildland Fire crew, was lost in the line of duty on Oct. 1, 2008, while dispatched with the crew to the Sacramento Fire near the California border. Officer Falconer, who is survived by his wife, first joined the ADC in 2004, and was a proud member of our Wildland Fire team since July 2007.
Judge Now Delays ASARCO Decision
A. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge in Corpus Christi, Texas, has decided to wait until May 15th before a final decision is made on the latest Chapter11 reorganization plan submitted by ASARCO to sell itself to Sterlite Industries of India for $1.7 billion.($1.1 cash and $600 million in notes.) Grupo Mexico has indicated it will submit its plan by May 15 Grupo is said to be asking for a creditor's vote on its proposal to pay $1.3 billion in cash to take back control of the ASARCO mines in Arizona and its refinery at El Paso, Texas.
Shane Blakeman Appointed as Key Leader within Sheriff's Office
On April 27, 2009, Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu appointed retired Eloy Captain Shane Blakeman to lead the Sheriff's Office Patrol Division and Regional SWAT Team. Captain Blakeman was hired by Sheriff Babeu as an at-will Captain and will be an integral part of the Sheriff's Office phased reorganization plan. The experience and professionalism Captain Blakeman brings with him to the Sheriff's Office, as well as his knowledge of, and involvement in, the Pinal County Community will provide the Sheriff’s Office with a valuable resource. Captain Blakeman, who is a lifetime Pinal County resident, has deep roots in the Coolidge area. He and his wife Laura both enjoy living and working in Pinal County, as is evidenced by his long-term commitment to Pinal County Law Enforcement. Captain Blakeman retired from the Eloy Police Department on April 24, 2009 as Captain of the Support Services Division. During his 27 year law enforcement career, he held various positions both within the Eloy Police Department as well as being a representative/liaison for the department with various community organizations. While with the Eloy Police Department, Captain Blakeman spent 18 years as a member of the Patrol Division. He spent two years serving the residents of the City of Eloy as a Patrolman and then 16 years as a Patrol Sergeant. Following his patrol assignment he was transferred to the investigations division as a Sergeant where he spent two years serving his community. In 2001, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant where he was assigned to the Support Services Division and in 2006 he was promoted to Captain of the same division. As the Support Services Captain he acted as the Public Information Officer, the department Training Coordinator, and supervised the Professional Standards Unit, Facilities Management, Community Services, Records Division, Communications and Transportation. He was also tasked with managing grants, animal control and fleet services. Captain Blakeman is no stranger to the Sheriff's Office, as he has recently been managing the Pinal County Regional SWAT team following the removal of Sgt. Scott Gillen in January of 2009. Prior to that he served as a SWAT Operator and Team Leader for more than 20 years. Captain Blakeman has numerous advanced certifications. He is a certified trainer in Physical Fitness, Firearms, Patrol Rifle, Scoped Rifle, Chemical Weapons and Emergency Response Driving. He has been a driving force through his mentoring and teaching of peace officers from across the state. Blakeman currently serves as a member of the AZ POST Subject Matter Expert Committee for Emergency Response Driving and is an instructor at Central Arizona Regional Law Officers Training Academy, where he teaches Physical Fitness and Stress Management. Captain Blakeman is also a lead instructor for the AZ POST Driving Instructor Training School and instructs Emergency Vehicle Operations at the Northern Arizona University National Park Ranger Academy. Captain Blakeman is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy and of the International Chief's of Police Leadership in Police Organizations Academy. Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, "As is evidenced by his broad range of experience and knowledge of law enforcement operations, Captain Blakeman is certain to lead patrol from the front and will play a vital role in the renewed professionalism and forward progression of the Sheriff's Office." Babeu continued, "Blakeman is a well-respected and proven leader in the law enforcement community across the state and his experience and skill will assist us in providing the best possible law enforcement services to those we are sworn to protect and serve."
Payson Spa Served Search Warrant in Regards to Prostitution
On April 28, 2009 a search warrant was executed at the Asian Spa located at 512 S. Beeline Hwy #8. This search warrant was in connection with an investigation conducted by the Payson Police Department in regards to prostitution being conducted at that location. Along with several citizen complaints and an undercover operation, Suhsia Chen (55) was arrested for Solicitation for Prostitution during the search warrant. The investigation is continuing as these types of cases may involve numerous people.
FUSD Collects Clothes For Children
In partnership with the San Tan Kiwanis Club, Florence Unifi ed School District #1 is collecting used clothing to be sold for funds to assist less fortunate children achieve their greatest potential and to fi nd hope in times of turbulence. Established by Jerry Moyes, founder of Swift Transportation, Swift Charities has a simple, yet powerful, mission statement. "We exist to raise money for selected well-established organizations that provide safe, professional, effi cient services for Arizona's children in need" explained Amanda Smith, VP Community Relations and Marketing. There is a clothes collection bin at each school site in the Florence Unifi ed School District. The Kiwanis Club empties all bins every other day and delivers the clothes to the Swift Charities outlet where they are sold, using the revenue for needy children. The Kiwanis Club receives a percentage of the clothes they collect, subsequently using their funds for community services and scholarships for Florence High School graduates. Smith continued by further describing their purpose; "Swift Charities is committed to giving hope to our children in need, and we want to help them forge a meaningful future. We exist for them!" FUSD asks that you consider placing your used clothing in the bin closest to you and be a part of helping those who are the neediest! We sincerely thank you!
Big Winner! Or Is This a Scam?, By Ed Kuehneman
A month ago, CCN's Mary Jane Ortiz won $28,000, according to a letter from Maple Diamond Jackpot, Box 9205 Station A, Ottawa, ON, Canada. (It had a "Prevent Fraud" postmark.) "Enclosed is a check for $950 which must be deposited into your bank account immediately to pay for your tax processing and registration fees ..." She should give it 24 to 48 hours to clear and then call and say where she wanted the money sent. "Congratulations!" Hmmm ... they hadn't asked for any money or any personal information, but Mary Jane was still leery. She opened a separate bank account and deposited the check. Two days later, the check had cleared, and she called the number, (416) 820-9237, and spoke to "Nigel Myers." He said to buy a Money Gram for $843 and send it to Susan Foster, 127 18th St., Suite 61, Buffalo, NY 14213. Well, why not, since Mary Jane had been given $950? She procrastinated, though, and Great Western Bank called: The check was a fraud! Mary Jane went down and was shown the check. "Everything looked real; they're getting better at making fraudulent checks. Could you bring us any information ...? Moral: If someone asks for YOUR money or YOUR private information in order to get your "prize" or your "stimulus payment" or whatever, well, you might check with your banker. Don't get robbed!
Wind Farm Brings More than Energy to Rural Az
Sen. Sylvia Allen, R-Snowflake, recently toured the Dry Lake Wind Project, the state's first commercial wind energy farm currently under construction outside Snowflake. She is evaluating important economic development opportunities associated with the construction of energy facilities in rural areas. "What a great opportunity to invest in long-term infrastructure that creates jobs for our area and ensures durable energy supplies," Allen said. Our coal plants have been and will continue to be a great source of energy and jobs, but we need more jobs." Many private companies are seeking areas for renewable energy projects, including wind and solar. The Dry Lake Farm is located 18 miles northwest of Snowflake just east of Arizona State Route 377. Later this year, it is anticipated to produce approximately 63 megawatts - enough renewable energy to power more than 15,000 average residential homes. "Our district offers multiple opportunities and I'm working to bring the best options to our area," she said. "Unemployment is too high in our rural areas and we need to utilize our resources while protecting our environment."
Needs More Citizens on Patrol
The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office is now accepting applications for the Citizens on Patrol Academy. The new COP Academy will include general classroom instruction with training in Sheriff’s Office Policies and Procedures, CPR/First Aid, Self-Defense, Traffic Control, and Evasive Driving. All training is by AZPOST Certified Instructors. By patrolling their communities, usually in 2-4 hour shifts, Citizen Patrol Volunteers who are familiar with their community are able to recognize "suspicious” activity and notify the Sheriff's Office directly by radio. Sheriff Paul Babeu stated, "Pinal County COP's provide a valuable service as the eyes and ears for the Sheriff’s Office by maintaining a close watch over, and reporting suspicious activity in, their communities ... they have become an integral part of our organization." The Pinal County Sheriff's Office is currently seeking COP Volunteers in the Gold Canyon, San Tan, Pecan Creek, Johnson Ranch/Queen Creek areas. Applicants must be 21, have an Arizona Driver’s License and auto insurance, and pass a background check. For further information, please email COP Director Pat Prince at patprince6064@msn. com, or leave a message at the Sheriff's Office Gold Canyon Sub-station at 480-982-2241. In the U.S., there are over 75,000 Citizens on Patrol, with groups in every state.
Globe Waste Water Plans, By Jesse Bryant
Another round of budget discussions at the Globe City Council meeting brought up the plans for Globe's Waste Water Treatment Plant. Public Works Director Mike Humphrey said that the plant is at about two thirds capacity, and that new construction along US 60 past Apache Drive In, may bring the plant to capacity sooner than anticipated. City Manager Manoj Vyas said that a master improvement plan will be ready for the council in 18 months. The plan will include improvements on the oxidation pond, clarifiers, and constructing additional drawing cells, and will be submitted to ADEQ for approval. The Master Improvement Plan study will cost $50,000, with five years of waste water construction projects anticipated.
Fire at DeRose Apartments
Globe, Canyon, and Tri-City fire departments responded to 1257 Upper Pinal Creek Drive for an initial report of a brush fire. First arriving units found no brush fi re but had smoke in the apartments and a heavy odor of something burning. After further investigation by fire crews, a fire was located in an upstairs porch in the floor where a fire had been smoldering and ignited due to a discarded cigarette. The fire was immediately extinguished and contained to the area of origin. Some ceiling from the downstairs porch and some face board had to be removed to make access to the fire. Crews were on scene for about an hour. The fire was determined to be accidental, due to the improper discarding of a cigarette.
May 6-12 Marks National Nurses Week
A week of celebrating what is known as the highest profession in terms of honesty and integrity (as ranked consistently by a Gallup Poll since 1999). In this questionable economy, many registered nurses have increased their working hours to accommodate a decrease in their household income. Some may be foregoing retirement until their financial situation improves. And some may even be working toward an advanced degree or certificate, knowing that the higher educated nurses are those that are being recruited and retained for the best jobs. Because they are nurses, these scenarios are possible, and these individuals can potentially save their families from financial ruin because of the promise of their chosen career. Yes, we've all read articles about how healthcare institutions are cutting back - and many in the nursing field may have faced pay cuts or other downsizing. But nurses are still needed every day. Truthfully, the demand is simply not as high as in years past - but there's still a need. Consider the nurses all around us - in our schools, churches, doctors' offices and even in combat. An education in nursing can be the cure for an ailing professional outlook and offer enough adventure for a lifetime. This economy will bounce back, healthcare institutions will once again face challenges of meeting the high demand for services, and nurses will be a hot commodity. Until then, they remain under the radar, doing their job, increasing their work, taking care of their families and relishing their smart career choice. If you know a nurse, be sure to tell them "thank you." We owe them all a debt of gratitude.
Native Air Donates for the Cure
Native Air, a division of Omnifl ight Helicopter, will present a check to the Phoenix Affi liate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure on Friday, May 8, at 11 a.m., at their maintenance facility at Williams Gateway Airport. Helicopter and fixed wing ambulance aircraft will do a flyover and a pink ambulance will be on hand. Under its Flight for the Cure Program, Native Air pledged $10 for every medical transport it made in the months of December 2008, and January and February of 2009. During this time, Native Air raised nearly $15,000 to be awarded at their airport facility, 6229 Sossaman Rd. Bldg. 32, Mesa, AZ 85212. Their contact phone number is 575-496-8385. 75 percent of the funds raised in Arizona remain in the local marketplace while 25% is earmarked for Susan G. Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs, working for a end to the threat of breast cancer.
ADOT Will Close Lanes, Shift Traffic on State Route 87 South of Payson
The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will close the southbound lanes of State Route (SR) 87 near Sunfl ower and shift traffic to one lane in each direction in the northbound lanes from May 4 to May 20. The work will begin at 9 p.m. on Monday, May 4 with the closure of both southbound lanes of SR 87 at the junction of SR 188. Traffic will be routed through Globe until 5 a.m. on Tuesday, May 5. At that time one lane in each direction will be opened to traffic in the northbound lanes. A wide-load restriction of 12-feet will be in place for both northbound and southbound vehicles. This construction activity is part of phase two of the work to repair the highway and slope impacted by last year's landslide near Slate Creek. The traffic shift is needed to allow crews to remove concrete barriers and continue other construction work including installation of 12-foot wide drain pipes adjacent to the southbound lanes, and repairing pavement. Speeds will be temporarily reduced to 45 mph during the lane closure, which will last until May 20. ADOT closed the highway on March 21, 2008 to ensure the safety of the traveling public following a landslide that occurred between Sunflower and Rye near Slate Creek. No one was injured, but the landslide caused sections of the highway's southbound lanes to buckle and shift, creating an unsafe roadway. The highway was reopened March 27 with one lane in each direction, while construction crews continued making repairs. In May, ADOT opened all lanes of traffic after substantial erosion control and drainage measures were implemented. Phase two of the SR 87 erosion control project began in early 2009 and includes the installation of a retaining wall on the west side of SR 87 and additional erosion-control measures on both sides of the highway. ADOT appreciates drivers' cooperation during this short-term inconvenience and asks motorists to drive safely in the construction zone and be alert for workers and heavy equipment. Motorists are advised to call 5-1-1 or visit www.az511.gov for the latest updates on highway conditions across Arizona.
Boys and Girls Club of Globe Special Thanks
The weather was beautiful and the turn-out tremendous for our first annual benefit ride for the Boys and Girls Club of Globe. On Saturday, April 18, 2009, Helping with Horsepower held a poker run to raise money for this worthy cause. It was a great success. Thanks to all who attended. Participants had their choice of horseback, quad. ATV or UTV for a 4-6 hour ride. Without the generosity of the participants, we would not have been able to give away a four wheeler and hand the club $8,000.00 plus in cash. Our sincerest thanks goes to Bobby Mounce who allowed the event to take place on his property and Kenny Hicks who opened his gates for the horseback riders to participate and have a great time. Live music was provided by Bill Roten, CM Petty, Charlie Poarch, Charlie Poarch, Jr., Fred Martin, Eddy Armer, Eddie Vasquez, Bob Fulton and Victor Neese. Thank you, gentlemen, for providing the entertainment. We filled our bellies with the good food provided by Dusty and Debbie Green and family. Thanks so much tor your hard work and dedication in helping with this event. Sue Rogers was the winner of our grand prize, a Suzuki Eiger 400 4x4 four wheeler. Carolyn Cummings was the winner of the poker hand totaling $545.00. Her overwhelming generosity is much appreciated as she donated every penny back to the Boys and Girls Club of Globe and she is recently unemployed. Thank you Carolyn for showing what a caring person you are. Greg Villalobos was the winner of the 50/50 drawing. We raised $220.00 and his half was $110.00, Greg was kind enough to donate fifty percent of his winnings back to the cause. Thank you Greg for your contribution. Advertisement was provided by KISS FM, The RIDE, Arizona Boys and Girls Club of Globe Special Thanks Silverbelt and Copper Country News. Thank you for spreading the word and helping make our event such a success. Special thanks to the following contributors for their generous cash donations, door prizes and raffle items: Bobby Mounce, BHP Billiton, DJ Companies, Inc., All Pro Cycle, True Blue Jewelry. Shirley,'s Gifts, Vida E Caffe, Hog Haven, DeMarco's, Big-O Tires, C&M Texaco, Dalmolin Excavating, Chalo's Miami, Volvo Rents., Vonnie’s Pizza, Subway, Dani's Tax Service, La Casita Cafe, Ace Hardware, Palace Pharmacy, AM/ PM, Oasis Printing, Judy's Cook House, Past Times Antiques, Drift Inn, Guayo's On The Trail, Dick's Broasted Chicken, Ortega's Shoes, Church’s Chicken, United Jewlrey, La Luz Del Dia, Shell Rapid Lube, 5D Mining, Earth Mover Tires, Circle K of Claypool, Beverage House, Safeway of Claypool, Fry's Food and Drug, Hick’s Wellness, Napa, Hoofin' It Feed & Tack, Garry Miller, MV Enterprises, Inc., Stauffer Plumbing, Shawn Neumann, Eddy Esparza, Tanja Weaver, Jim Heimer, Southwest Gas, Kevlin Steel, and APS and Gila County Fairgrounds for the use of the tables and chairs. We enjoyed good food, live music and good times with friends and neighbors. We are already planning and looking forward to a successful event next year. And remember the Boys and Girls Club of Globe is a great place for our future generations to grow strong minds and healthy bodies. Thank you from Helping With Horsepower: Bobby Mounce, Liz Villalobos, Tanja Weaver, Jim Heimer, Lois Brantley, Lisa King, Tristan and Tracie Frantom
Teen Outreach Program Attend Community Project
Nine youths and three adults attended our Teen Outreach Program / community servicelearning project.We collected nine bags of trash along Maple & Hill Streets, around Globe High School & the old junior high, and behind Safeway-Globe. A big thanks to Patsy Arvizu of Little Caesar's Pizza. Lunch was great!
Summer Piano Lessons
June 1st- July 10th. Call 928-812- 3218. Location: Copper Valley Academy of Music at the Old Courthouse. Six 1/2 hour private lesson. Ages 5 and up. $100 + books. Flexible scheduling available. OR Five 1 hour group lessons. This is a one week class that meets every Summer Piano Lessons day for an hour. $75. Ages 7 and up. No at home practice required. Beginners welcome. Have fun with ensemble performance and games. OR Adult Recreational Piano Just for fun! Everyone is welcome. No prior experience needed.Five 1 hour group sessions. $75.
Library Volunteer Readers
A planning meeting for Summer Reading Program volunteers will be held at the Globe Public Library on Wednesday, May 13th, at 5:00 p.m. in the library community room. The program will be held for four weeks in June and July on Wednesday and Thursday mornings. This year's theme is "Be Creative @ your library." Ideas are needed for stories, songs, games, and crafts. Interested persons are urged to contact Marion Steele or Ellen Watters at the library, 425-6111.
80-Acre Annexation Possible for Miami, By M. Casillas
On February 6, Miami Mayor, Jesus Canizales, sent a letter to the Arizona State Land Department, requesting permission to annex certain State Trust lands located south of Miami. In response to the request, Deputy Land Commissioner, Jamie Hogue, in a letter of his own, informed the Mayor that the same annexation request was made and approved in 1997, when the Land Department determined that 80 acres would be appropriate for annexation into the Town of Miami. The State Selection Board approved that amended annexation on November 25, 1997. In order to continue with the possible annexation, Miami offi cials must now record a petition and map with the Gila County Recorder's Offi ce, and must finalize the deal within a year of approval. It was also determined that some BLM land, located to the west of the proposed 80-acre lot, must be added to the arrangement in order to meet the geographical continuity requirements for an annexation. Miami Vice-Mayor, Mike Black, believes the annexation would be a great deal for a town that has for years been land-locked, with no room to grow. Black says, with the construction of a new sewer plant and the possibility of developing new homes on the proposed 80-acre parcel, Miami could be headed into a very productive economic future.
Summer Hours Coming at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park
Beginning May 1, public hours at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park change to the summer schedule. The Arboretum is open every day during May, June, July and August from 6:00am until 3:00pm. Paid admissions are accepted until 2:00pm. Arboretum Showcases the Watercolor Works of Artist Deborah Lee. Apache Junction artist Deborah Lee will exhibit her works in the Arboretum’s Visitor Center Gallery throughout May. Her exhibit, titled "Simply Irresistible Watercolors," captures wildlife and desert landscape vistas. "Watercolor is such a transparent and beautiful medium. It gives me the opportunity to enjoy both the challenge and satisfaction of painting a wide variety of subjects," said Lee. Arboretum visitors are invited to meet the Artist of the Month at her reception Saturday, May 9 from 10:00am until 2:00pm. Dragonfl y Walk Saturday, May 2 from 9:30am until 11:30am. Ayer Lake and Queen Creek are great places to see and photograph dragonfl y species such as Blue-eyed Darner and the Flame Skimmer. Arizona State Parks volunteer Pete Moulton will lead the tour. Migratory Bird Day An- nual Census Saturday, May 9 beginning at 6:00am. Marceline Vandewater invites birders to assist in the Annual North American Migrant Bird Count she coordinates at the Arboretum. E-mail marceline@ermaroni. net to enlist as a volunteer. A special presentation by EJ Peiker on avian photography will begin at 10:00am following the census. Learn Your Lizards Guided Walk Saturday, May 9 from 8:30am until 10:00am Desert Spiny Lizards can grow as big as bratwursts at the Arboretum. They are among six lizard species commonly observed and photographed throughout the gardens and along the trails. Bring your binoculars and join guide Mike Sredi of the Arizona Fish and Game Department on this informative tour. Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is located three miles west of historic Superior on U.S. Highway 60. Phone 520-689-2723 or visit http://ag.arizonas.edu/ bta for more information. For more information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit azstateparks.com.
Two Sentenced in 40 Million Dollar Medical Fraud
PHOENIX - Paul Woodcock, 62, of Glendale, and Milton Guenther, 52, of Surprise, Ariz., were each sentenced on April 27, 2009 to 51 and 18 months respectively by Judge David C. Campbell. David Goldfarb and Richard Ross are scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Campbell on May 4, 2009. The sentences are related to David Goldfarb, Richard Ross, Paul Woodcock and Milton Guenther’s (the principals) ownership and operation of CORF Licensing Services (CLS) from May 2001 through June 2003. The CLS business involved establishing outpatient medical facilities that provided pulmonary respiratory therapy and physical therapy services. The principals marketed their business through magazine ads and an internet website wherein the financial benefits of owning and operating a CORF facility were grossly misrepresented. The ads were designed to lure investors to sales seminars conducted at the Troon Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona. The principals would then make additional false representations to include the representation that their fi nancial numbers were conservative figures based on existing clients. During the scheme, the principals obtained nearly 300 contracts with victims nationwide who paid anywhere from $125,000 to $165,000 for CLS' services. As part of the scheme to defraud, the principals also referred prospective investors to certain CORF owners who were alleged to be independent of CLS. In reality, the principals paid the referrals significant sums of money to falsely tout the financial benefits of owning and operating a CORF. None of the prospective investors was told that the referrals were being paid by CLS or that the majority of CLS' clients were not profitable. From the inception of CLS in 2000 through June 2003, CLS received approximately $40 million. From this amount, Goldfarb received approximately $3.5 million, Ross received approximately $2 million, Woodcock received approximately $4 million and Guenther received approximately $1 million. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Special Agents of Criminal Investigation Internal Revenue Service, U.S. Postal Inspector and the FBI. The prosecution is being handled by Stephen W. Laramore and Raymond K. Woo, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Cobre Valley ADEQ Permit, by Ted Lake
The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality says it is proposing to issue a renewed AZPDES permit for the Cobre Valley Plaza Shopping Center to Weiner Development of Houston, Texas. The permit allows the discharge of up to 0.02 million gallons per day of effluent from a waste water treatment plant that serves the shopping center. The ADEQ says the effl uent is discharged to Russell Gulch, a tributary to Miami Wash. The draft for the permit renewal and related documentation is available for public review on weekdays at the ADEQ Offi ce in Phoenix at 1110 West Washington. Further information can be obtained by calling ADEQ at 602-771-4380 or at 602-771-4515
Phase Two of Globe Gateway Project, by Jesse Bryant
As part of the Federal HURF tax, a transportation enhancement fund exists for communities to improve the condition and appearance of their designated gateways. For phase two in Globe’s Gateway project, improvements have been designed for the intersection of Oak St. and US 60, and Hill St. and US 60. The project is estimated to cost $300,000, of which the federal government will pay 93.7% from HURF funds, and the city will pay 6.3% plus special items, such as the lighted globe planned for Oak Street. The city’s share of the cost has been recommended for budgeting in the ‘09 -’10 public works budget. The city has completed 100% of plans and specifi cations, environmental studies, and cost estimates for the project. The way such projects are enacted is by submitting a project to the state Transportation Enhancement Review Committee, which recommends the project to the State Transportation Board, which selects projects and awards federal HURF funds. Once the city is done with their required studies, the plan goes to AZ Department of Transportation to be bid out and constructed.
Monies/Awards for Freeport Execs Down
Richard Adkerson, Chief Executive Offi cer for Freeport Mc- MoRan Copper and Gold Inc received a total compensation of $33.4 million in 2008 compared to $74.1 million a year earlier according to information filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Adkerson's pay for 2008 included $2.5 million in base salary. It was also reported Adkerson received $10.7 million in stock awards for the year, some $11.9 million in options, a $5.million change in pension value and deferred compensation. In addition, he reportedly received some $3.2 million in other benefi ts. Freeport's Chairman James Moffett's pay in 2008 was $25.4 million down from $16.9 million in 2007. Moffett according to the statement to the SEC declined any incentive awards.