GLENDALE DAILY PLANET / KKAT-TV IS OVER 7 YEARS OLD!

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GLENDALE’S CHOCOLATE AFFAIRE 
OFFERS MORE THAN SWEET CONFECTIONS

   GLENDALE, Ariz. – Chocolate is the star of the Glendale Chocolate Affaire, however, you’ll find more to see and do than just eating at this award-winning, three-day festival! From history and science to a romance novel cover model, Glendale’s got it all Feb. 3-5.

With more than 30 chocolatiers, how do you know what to taste first? Event planners can help with that; on Friday evening, the second annual SweetTooth contest will determine which delicious confection is the best. Visitors can watch the competition with special guest judges, and can find the winner noted with special recognition on Saturday and Sunday.

Event sponsor Cerreta Candy Company annually contributes to a fundraiser for the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission (MYAC). This year, students will  sell candy bars, 50 of which will have special golden tickets. Just like the movie, the golden tickets will get winners a personal behind-the-scenes tour of the factory along with candy, of course.

Did you know that this event features the largest gathering of national romance novelists in the Southwest? This event features many different genres within romance fiction, including paranormal, historical, young adult, fantasy, sci-fi, romantic comedy and more. The book signings and writing workshops with authors are complemented by a special appearance by Jimmy Thomas, who can be seen in fitness magazines, on television and in music videos, but his most active modeling venue has been romance novel covers. To date he has been featured on more than 2,000 book covers, since participating in the "2002 Mr. Romance Cover Model" contest. He will appear Saturday, Feb. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

A unique element of the event this year will be “The Science of Chocolate.” Come learn about and experience the science and medicinal properties of chocolate with Dr. Francisco Villarreal, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego, on Saturday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m. (Spanish) and 6 p.m. (English) in Diamond B at the Glendale Civic Center. In addition, the Arizona SciTech Festival will have a Science of Chocolate booth during all event hours.

            With Glendale’s Chocolate Affaire being an officially-sanctioned Arizona Centennial event, history will be part of this celebration. State Historian Marshall Trimble will be featured in the lineup of writer’s workshops, giving a presentation on Arizona history on Saturday at 1 p.m. Also, the Glendale Arts Commission will put on a Plein Air painting contest with artists from all over the state coming to compete at this event. This year a major part of the competition instructions  include painting historical subjects from the West Valley to acknowledge or salute the centennial, creating artwork to display tie-ins to the centennial such as Sahuaro Ranch, Beet Sugar Factory, First United Methodist Church and Murphy Park, all destinations that are more than 100 years old.     

Event hours are Friday 5 - 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The event is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Glendale, in Murphy Park, located at 58^th and Glendale avenues.

The Glendale Chocolate Affaire is sponsored by Cerreta’s Candy Company, ABC 15, The Arizona Republic, Valley Buick-GMC Dealers, YooHoo, KMLE, KOOL and JAMZ, Sedona Pines, Pacific Monarch, Residence Inn-Springhill Suites Glendale, Phoenix Coyotes, the Glendale Arts Commission and Arizona SciTech Festival.

For more information on the Glendale Chocolate Affaire, including the entertainment lineup and a list of authors making appearances, visit our website at www.glendaleaz.com/events or call our special events hotline at 623-930-2299.

See Full Event List Further Down The List - Ed#

GLENDALE OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESIDENTS 
TO CELEBRATE ARIZONA’S CENTENNIAL

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – The entire state of Arizona will be commemorating 100 years of statehood on Feb. 14, and the city of Glendale is offering various activities and programs for residents to join in the celebration!

         From weddings to scavenger hunts, Glendale is planning many fun and unique activities around the city for people of all ages. 

·        Arizona’s Centennial will be part of the Glendale Chocolate Affaire February 3-5 in downtown Glendale.  During the Chocolate Affaire, the Glendale Arts Commission will put on a Plein Air painting contest with artists from all over the state coming to compete at this event. This year a major part of the competition instructions  include painting historical subjects from the West Valley to acknowledge or salute the centennial, creating artwork to display tie-ins to the centennial such as Sahuaro Ranch, Beet Sugar Factory, First United Methodist Church and Murphy Park, all destinations that are more than 100 years old. In addition, State Historian Marshall Trimble will be featured in the lineup of writer’s workshops, giving a presentation on Arizona history. Finally, Glendale has displayed a giant "Happy 100th Birthday Arizona" sign constructed out of lights that will be glowing for the three day event on the side of City Hall. Info: www.glendaleaz.com/events or 623-930-2299.

·        Glendale Library is coordinating an event for kids in grades 1-4 to celebrate Arizona’s 100^th birthday on Thursday, Feb. 23, at 10 a.m.  Find out what it was like to live in Arizona in 1912 and throughout the last 100 years. Learn how cowboys lived, join a scavenger hunt, enjoy interactive activities, crafts and a fun story or two, become a desert explorer and search for Arizona’s state symbols and more!  Scheduled to perform are singing cowboy Gary Sprague, along with his horse Dusty and storyteller Elly Reidy. Register beginning Feb. 1 by calling Carolyn at 623-930-3539. 

·        Glendale Historical Society is offering special Centennial wedding packages on Feb. 14 and throughout the year. The Sweetheart Rose Wedding Package features a ceremony in the beautiful rose garden at Historic Sahuaro Ranch, itself more than 100 years old and a significant part of the state’s agricultural history. For more information, call 623-435-0072 or visit www.glendalearizonahistoricalsociety.com.

·        Throwing fashion into the mix is Pink House and designer Bri Bridge who is designing a Centennial dress to commemorate the occasion. Located in downtown Glendale, Pink House is an eclectic boutique featuring a variety of local designers and artisans. The garment will be a modernized reinvention of 1912 fashion, featuring some of the 5 ‘C’s of Arizona (cotton, cattle, copper, climate and citrus), as well as the state flag. The dress will be on display during the Glendale Chocolate Affaire, Feb. 3-5, in Pink House. Visit www.pinkhousetreasures.com or call 623-298-4766.

It’s A Dog-gone Rescue in downtown glendale for a good cause

    See rescue dogs in action in downtown Glendale for a unique event that allows participants to be part of real rescue demonstrations. This event is a fundraiser to benefit fallen Glendale Police Officer Brad Jones’ family.

The event, which is called “It’s a Bear Hunt,” will take place Saturday, Feb. 25 at 58^th Drive between Myrtle and Palmaire in downtown Glendale. Arizona Search Dogs will be conducting a live search for people.

The work done by these highly trained dogs involves reward and play-type incentives so each person will receive a bear and then the victims will reward the dogs with a bear once they are found. The bears have been donated by Bears & More, a unique shop in downtown Glendale. 

Participants will need to register, sign a waiver and pay a $10 registration fee. Check in begins at 7:30 a.m. with the first hunt beginning at 8:30 a.m. Each person will have about 10 to 15 minutes to hide along the street and alleys before the dogs are released to find them.

In addition to the live search, raffle prizes will be offered. PetSmart has donated a $100 gift card. Event sponsors include Glendale Civic Pride Ambassadors, Cabela’s, Glendale CVB, Arizona Search Dogs and Bears & More. For more information, call 623.930.4500 or visit www.visitglendale.com

Paris in the Spring

10 am – 4 pm Saturday, March 3^rd

Historic Downtown Glendale
 and Catlin Court

.

Glendale Police Determine Date for Landfill Search

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Glendale Police have identified a start date in the search for the remains of five-year-old Jhessye Shockley at the Butterfield Landfill in Mobile, south of the Valley.  The target date for the beginning of the search operation will be Monday February 6, 2012.

            Through a tremendous amount of planning and preparation, which is still underway, Glendale Police have identified personnel and equipment for the search. The department is currently in the final stages of obtaining the necessary equipment, as well as scheduling, training, and medically screening involved personnel.

            Search personnel will consist of sworn officers and detectives, FBI, and Child Abduction Response Team (CART) members.  Including search teams and support personnel, there will be over 40 people on site per day, excluding weekends.  The search operation is expected to be extensive and could last several weeks.

As a result of investigative efforts, analysis and research, a specific area  has been identified, which is considered the most probable place for finding the child’s body. This specific area measures approximately 180 x 200 feet, and is over 20 feet in depth.  It is the equivalent of one day’s waste, which amounts to 6,000 tons of trash.  The area is secure and is being prepared for the search.  Required heavy equipment for the search will be arriving at the site soon.

CITY OF GLENDALE

PUBLIC BUDGET MEETING SCHEDULE 

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – The city of Glendale will conduct five budget meetings over the next two months:

-Tuesday, Feb. 14 at 1:30 p.m.

-Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 1:30 p.m.

-Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 1:30 p.m.

-Tuesday, March 6 at 1:30 p.m. -Tuesday, March 20 at 1:30 p.m.

         The meetings will be held at Glendale City Hall in room B3, and free parking is available in the city hall parking garage. The meetings will also be broadcast live on Glendale 11 TV and live online at www.glendaleaz.com/video.   The meetings are archived on the city website for viewing 24/7 at www.glendaleaz.com/video.

         Budget documents will be posted on the city’s website at www.glendaleaz.com/budget prior to the meetings. Additional meetings could be added to the calendar if deemed necessary

Suspect from Officer Involved Shooting 

Released from Hospital and Booked

GLENDALE, Ariz. – On Wednesday January 18, 2011 just after 1:30pm, three (3) Officers from the Phoenix Police Department were faced with a deadly threat situation from an armed suspect after a pursuit of that suspect ended in the City of Glendale at the intersection of 59^th Avenue and Cactus Rd.  As a result of that deadly threat, the officers involved discharged their duty weapons to protect their lives.

RE-CUE THE VIDEO!

SUPER BOWL REMATCH REMINISCENT

OF GLENDALE’S 2008 GAME 

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – Sports enthusiasts are calling the 2012 Super Bowl a sequel to the game played in the city of Glendale in February 2008.   And now fans of the New York Giants and New England Patriots can hit the rewind button and watch some of Glendale’s most popular TV stories featuring both teams and Super Bowl XLII.  

In 2008, more than 90,000 fans traveled to Arizona to be part of Super Bowl festivities as the Giants and Patriots competed for football’s top crown.  At that time, New York stunned undefeated New England with a 17 – 14 win in what some have called the greatest Super Bowl ever.   As the teams prepare for their rematch at Super Bowl XLVI on Feb. 5 in Indianapolis, the city of Glendale’s TV station, Glendale 11, is showcasing footage and highlights of the 2008 Super Bowl events.  Stories and links include:

-Super Bowl XLII Rewind:  Game Day in Glendale - http://youtu.be/Y-V307VnVlA

-Super Bowl XLII Rewind:  Global Media in Glendale - http://youtu.be/MVxDZ2RRr70

-Super Bowl XLII Rewind:  Football & Chocolate ‘08 - http://youtu.be/8axrKFkj4Xk

In addition, Glendale 11 TV will re-air “Glendale’s Got Game: Super Bowl 42” so football fans can relive the magic of the original Giants and Patriots match-up in Glendale. 

The show documents eight days-- the seven days leading up to the 2008 Super Bowl and the big game day itself. Viewers will get a glimpse at Glendale’s connections to the people, places and activities that took center stage for this history-making game. “Glendale’s Got Game:  Super Bowl 42” will air:

-Friday, Feb. 3 at 8:30 p.m.

-Saturday, Feb. 4 at 7 p.m.

-Sunday, Feb. 5 at 12:30 p.m.

In just three years from now, the city of Glendale will once again host the largest sporting event in the world, as the Super Bowl returns to

Glendale in 2015. The city is committed to creating the best fan experience possible, just like in 2008.

Glendale 11 TV can be seen on Cox Channel 11 and online at www.glendaleaz.com/video.  For more information about Glendale 11 TV, visit www.glendaleaz.com/glendale11

STATEMENT BY SENATOR JOHN McCAIN ON
 PRESIDENT OBAMA’S VISIT TO ARIZONA TODAY

Washington, D.C. ­– U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) released the following statement on President Obama’s visit to Arizona today:

“I welcome President Obama to the great state of Arizona today. During his visit, I hope the president takes in some of the incredible beauty and history of our state. But most importantly, I encourage him to sit down with hardworking Arizonans and hear first-hand about the painful challenges they’re facing in this economy.

“While President Obama is in Arizona today, I urge him to tear himself away from his taxpayer-funded campaign stop for just a few hours to finally make his first-ever visit to the Arizona-Mexico border. It’s a quick flight, and I’m sure the citizens living there, who struggle every day with the consequences of a porous border, would appreciate the president finally acknowledging that securing the border is a top priority for the federal government.

“Unemployment in Arizona is 8.7 percent overall, and much higher in certain areas of the state – including 23.7 percent in Yuma County in southern Arizona. Meanwhile, the Obama Administration’s recently-enacted Arizona mining ban perversely promises to kill hundreds of jobs. Despite the president introducing several failed housing plans, nearly half of all homeowners in Arizona remain underwater on their mortgages – meaning the home is worth less than the mortgage.

“Arizonans know we need a new approach to turn this economy around, create the jobs our citizens so badly need, address the housing crisis and ensure that people living along our southern border can feel secure in their homes. I sincerely hope that the President will use his time in Arizona to talk to the people that are suffering the most under his Administration’s failed policies – not just fly through on the way to his next campaign stop.”

INTERIM MANAGER NAMED AIRPORT ADMINISTRATOR

            GLENDALE, Ariz. – After serving in an interim capacity for the past six months, Walter L. Fix has been named the airport administrator for the Glendale Municipal Airport.

            Fix came to Glendale from the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport where he worked for 10 years as director of planning and special projects and director of operations and maintenance. Prior to that, he worked for the City of Phoenix Airport system for 28 years. While with Phoenix, Fix held positions as airport manager at the Phoenix-Deer Valley Airport after working as operations manager and general aviation foreman at Phoenix-Sky Harbor Airport. Fix is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) with the American Association of Airport Executives.

 “I am pleased to welcome Mr. Fix permanently to Glendale,” Jamsheed Mehta, executive director of Transportation Services says. “Walt comes to Glendale with more than 30 years in aviation administration, and we are counting on his experience to continue to grow the airport to its fullest potential.”

Located just five miles west of downtown Glendale, five miles east of Luke Air Force Base, and 30 minutes northwest of downtown Phoenix, Glendale’s 477-acre modern airport features a beautifully designed two-story, 18,000 square-foot terminal, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Contract control tower, a full-service restaurant and complete airport services for general aviation and corporate jet traffic.

The Marty Robbins event at the Gaslight Inn 
By Dee Roberts Special to Glendale Daily Planet

Photo by Fred Bishop

Betsy and Bruce Mullins performing at Glendale Gaslight Inn

Gaslight Inn

5747 W. Glendale Ave.

Old Towne Glendale, AZ 85301

A One-of-a-Kind Event

The16^th Annual Arizona Songwriter Gathering

Saturday, January 21, 2012

By Bette Sharpe Glendale Daily Planet

The 16^th Songwriters Gathering began in the morning at 10 a. m. when it was cool and cloudy and continued until 4:30 p. m.  The event workshops that pertained to the business and the creative aspects of writing a song and getting it noticed.  Workshops included a songwriter challenge, how to confront defamation, marketing tips using social media, and a song critique session. 

In this last workshop session, author John Braheny offered positive, constructive feedback for songwriters.  Songs, were either performed live or presented via CD or audiocassette.  Each song was given several minutes of critique by Mr. Braheny who wrote a book on songwriting, "The Craft and Business of Songwriting" (3rd ed.) published by  
F & W. Publications.  A lyric sheet was required as they were an important part of the critique.  The range of musical styles included rock, folk,, and novelty--just to name a few.  Some  songs of course, blend with other styles.

John Braheny's background includes teaching, consulting and hosting a talk show.  He may be best known for being the co-founder of the non-profit organization, Los Angeles Screenwriters Showcase.  This organization aims to help songwriters and their songs get noticed, i.e., some air time and possibly a recording deal .  By listening and possibly acting on what Mr. Braheny had to say about their work, these songwriters benefited from his professional advice.

A workshop featuring local musician and singer/songwriter Lewis Storey was scheduled for 2:30.  Writing commercially successful songs need to have compelling lyrics combined with pleasing melodies.  A concert by Mr. Storey was to follow his workshop.  Mr. Storey is a major label artist, singer/songwriter from Casa Grande.  You may have heard his song, "Ain't No Tellin'".

Musicians gathered on the front lawn at Glendale Public Main Library throughout the day to perform their original works. and to listen and enjoy other musicians perform.

The Arizona Songwriters Gathering was organized by Lon Austin, Jon Iger, and Gavan Wieser of the Arizona Songwriters Association and was hosted by the Glendale Public Library.

The event was free.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 1033.

Author John Brahney, gives songwriters attending his workshop positive and constructive feedback on their songs at the 16^th Annual Songwriters Gathering at Glendale Public Library on Brown Street.  Songs were selected at random.  Some tunes were performed live while others were presented via audiocassette or CD.  Some musicians performed their own works live, while other writers had their work performed by professional vocalist.  John B. hosted two workshops on Saturday, on at 1 and the second at 3.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 1024.

Robby Roberson, singer/songwriter, performs his original works at the Cáfe Lobby, inside the library.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 1040.

Pat McInnis plays the ukulele and sings outside the Glendale Public Library.  Other musicians gathered around him to join in.  There were good tunes to enjoy as well as information to share.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 1038

Pat McInnis plays the ukulele and sings as others join in.

WHAT MADE THAT A HIT?  10 A.M.–12 P.M. • AUDITORIUM
Learn principles, tools and techniques that have characterized great songs throughout the history of popular music. Don’t let your songs be rejected because you haven’t mastered the basics!

SONGWRITERS CHALLENGE – SONGWRITING BASICS 10 –11 A.M. • SMALL MEETING ROOM
How do you become a great songwriter? It’s easy! You write, you write collaboratively, and you write some more. Join Chris Frazer and Chava Cannon for an introduction to the Arizona Songwriters Challenge, an event that pushes you to write, and write with others. In this quarterly challenge, all participants are given the same title and challenged to write a song within 30 days. In this session you will hear samples from past events, an explanation of the process, and you’ll receive information about how to participate. Attendees will select the title for the next challenge. 

GRABBING PRIVACY AND CONFRONTING DEFAMATION: MORE TOOLS TO PROTECT THE ARTIST 10 –11:15 A.M. • LARGE MEETING ROOM
What options do you have when someone publishes false information about you? What are your rights if someone publishes true information that harms you? What can you do about someone using your image or voice without permission? Attorney James Marovich will introduce the laws relating to defamation and privacy, and explain how those laws can be used to prevent harm or to seek damages.

USING SOCIAL MEDIA TOOLS TO MARKET YOUR MUSIC 11:30 A.M.–12:45 P.M. • LARGE MEETING ROOM
Join entrepreneur Christine Springer to learn how social networking tools including Facebook, Twitter, Google + and YouTube can help you reach a global audience that traditional marketing tools cannot touch. This casual lecture and discussion will allow you an opportunity to share your experiences and hearfrom others about what works and what doesn’t.

IS THERE GOLD IN YOUR CLOSET? PERPETUATE YOUR ARTISTIC LEGACY THRU FILM & TV 12:45–2 P.M. • AUDITORIUM
Believe it or not, there may be a gold mine in your closet. Did you write and record music prior to 1989? Are your recordings collecting dust in an attic or closet? Join David Hilker of Wild Whirled Music as he discusses music for film and television, and the earning power of those forgotten tapes. Any genre. Any era. The gold mine is there. Are you ready to tap it?

SONG CRITIQUE SESSION  1–2:30 P.M. • LARGE MEETING ROOM
John Braheny will offer positive, constructive feedback on your songs. Bring a cassette or CD recording, or perform live. Lyric Sheets are mandatory. Songs selected at random.  

Glendale hospital first in state licensed
to use new technique

Breast mass localization eliminates guide wire

Glendale, Ariz. (Jan. 23, 2012) – The Woman’s Center at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center has announced the adoption of a new, innovative breast mass localization technique. The first and only facility to be licensed by the state of Arizona, Banner Thunderbird is a pioneer in Radioactive Seed Localization (RSL) techniques. Prior to removal, a breast mass must be accurately located by Woman’s Center staff on the day of surgery using a guide wire. This guide wire remains in the patient with the tip visible externally and held in place with surgical tape. Because of its position, the localization must be done on the day of surgery.

The RSL technique is revolutionary in that it utilizes the implantation of one or two very small radioactive seeds into the mass several days before surgery. There is no need to use a guide wire that protrudes from the skin itself. Without the wire, studies have shown greater patient comfort and satisfaction. On the day of surgery, the surgeon then uses a Gamma probe, a device which pinpoints the radioactive seeds, to identify the mass and remove it. The seeds can be implanted up to five days prior to surgery, offering more scheduling flexibility and options for patients and surgeons. Patients may carry on their daily activities with little or no interruption until surgery.

Studies have shown excellent results with this technique such as cleaner surgical margins and the potential for shorter operating times for the patient. Drs. Caroline Cranford and Kimberli Cox, who practice at Banner Thunderbird, have received training and will continue training through the next few months on this unique technique. Additionally, the pathology department as well as the operating room staff will be receiving training in the safe handling of the radioactive seeds.

“We are truly fortunate to work with pioneers like Drs. Cox and Cranford who bring with them innovative knowledge and collaboration in improving the patient experience,” said Jimmy Powell, director of Banner Thunderbird’s Medical Imaging department. “This also further supports the growth of our comprehensive breast clinic. Being the first in Arizona brings with it much responsibility and we will be sharing our learnings with the rest of the Banner system.”

Glendale Chocolate Affaire - Event Information

The weekend before Valentine’s Day, Feb. 3-5, is a delicious delight for the senses as the Glendale Chocolate Affaire takes over downtown Glendale to create a chocolate-lover’s dream!

• Friday, Feb. 3, 2012, 5 - 10 p.m.
• Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012, 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
• Sunday, Feb. 5, 2012, Noon - 5 p.m.
• Watch Video
  

Chocolate purveyors from Arizona and around the nation gather in Glendale for this award-winning festival, which celebrates not only chocolate, but romance and the arts as well. Chocolate confections will include items such as chocolate-covered bacon, chocolate-covered churros, chocolate-covered twinkies, chocolate-covered key lime pie, fried ice cream with chocolate and strawberries, chocolate-covered crepes and much more.

The Chocolate Affaire is sponsored by Arizona’s famous candy makers, Cerreta’s. The candy factory will offer tours all weekend, so visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at how the chocolatiers create everyone’s favorite candy.

In addition, the festival has become the largest gathering of national romance novelists in the Southwest. This symposium of literary romantics offers fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with authors, as well as the chance to attend free writing workshops given by the experts.

Families with children will enjoy myriad activities, including hands-on arts and crafts, face-painting and a rock-climbing wall. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available throughout the weekend to take couples or families on a scenic, charming ride through the historic Catlin Court district.    

Event hours are Friday 5 - 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The event is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Glendale, in Murphy Park, located at 58th and Glendale avenues.

The Glendale Chocolate Affaire festival was named one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the Washington Post, the Seattle Times and the American Bus Association. The event also was bestowed with the 2003 Governor’s Tourism Award for the Best Special Event in Arizona.

The Glendale Chocolate Affaire is sponsored by Cerreta’s Candy Company, ABC 15, The Arizona Republic, Valley Buick-GMC Dealers, YooHoo, KMLE, KOOL and JAMZ.

Entertainment Line-up

Romance Novelist Workshop Schedule

Romance Cover Model Jimmy Thomas

Though Jimmy Thomas can be seen in fitness magazines, on television and in music videos, his most active modeling venue has been romance novel covers. To date he has been on over 2,000 book covers, since participating in the "2002 Mr. Romance Cover Model" contest. Jimmy Thomas has surpassed Fabio five times over, making him the undisputed #1 cover model in history. A brilliant entrepreneur, Jimmy creates and sells cover images and pre-designed book covers to authors and publishers on his website www.romancenovelcovers.com.

Artist Opportunity: Glendale Plein Air Painting Event

The City of Glendale’s Public Art Program in conjunction with Special Events, will sponsor the 2012 Plein Air Painting Event at the Glendale Chocolate Affaire. It will be held during the popular festival in downtown Glendale, on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. We invite artists to participate.Event Details (pdf) | See the winners from 2011

“The Science of Chocolate” & “Ex-Static” at ASU New College

“The Science of Chocolate”

Come experience the science and medicinal properties of chocolate with Dr. Francisco Villarreal, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Diego at the Glendale Chocolate Affair. This presentation will be complemented all day by Arizona SciTech Festival science of chocolate booth.

Date: February 5, 2012 - two sessions
Times are 5 and 6 p.m. in Diamond B at the Glendale Civic Center. 5 p.m. is Spanish presentation, 6 p.m. is English.

“Ex-Static” at ASU New College

A state-wide challenge to students, faculty, staff, and community partners to showcase the very best examples of innovative research and practice in scientific, technological and artistic endeavors.

Date: Saturday, February 25,2012
Time: 1-5pm
ASU West, 4701 W. Thunderbird Road, Glendale

To learn more about The Science of Chocolate and other SciTech festival events, visit azscitechfest.org or click here (pdf)

Franks Comments on Release of F-35 Environmental Impact Statement

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) today addressed the Air Force's has release of the required Draft Environmental Impact Statement ("DEIS") for the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter training basing:

"In July 2010 Luke Air Force Base was identified by the Air Force as the base which best fulfills the mission and responsibilities inherent in training pilots to fly the F-35A. The DEIS is another step in the process before Air Force makes its final decision on which base it will use to train F-35A pilots.

"I am pleased to find that the DEIS supports Luke's bid to demonstrate why it is clearly the base best suited for this vital mission. This is an exciting time for Luke Air Force Base and the community; the F-35A is the future of the Air Force, and training these pilots will maintain Luke's vision for 'Developing Airmen for America's Air Force.'"

Before the Environmental Impact Statement becomes final, there will be a period open for public comment from February 13 through 16. Constituents interested in commenting can visit http://www.f-35atrainingeis.com to learn more about how to become involved and voice their opinions regarding the Air Force's decision.

Local Arizona Artist Selected to Create Goldwater
 Statue for Statuary Hall at US Capitol

Legendary Arizona Senator to Join 100 Other Historic Figures

PHOENIX – The Arizona Historical Advisory Commission (AHAC) has announced Deborah Copenhaver Fellows of Sonoita, Arizona has been selected to create a statue of Barry M. Goldwater for the National Statuary Hall in the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. 

The National Statuary Hall Collection is comprised of statues donated by individual states to honor persons notable in their history.  The entire collection now consists of 100 statues contributed by 50 states. 

The process to add Senator Goldwater started in 2008 with state legislation that was later approved by Congress. 

Deborah Copenhaver Fellows is recognized throughout the United States for her bronze and silver sculpture.  She and her husband Fred Fellows have lived in Arizona for the past 11 years.  Her works can be seen in corporate and private collections, including the United States Capitol Building and the Reagan White House collections.  She was also commissioned to create the Washington State Korean War Memorial for the State Capitol grounds.

"I can't think of many people in Arizona who've had a greater impact on our state than Senator Goldwater," said Secretary Bennett.  "The Senator defined our political landscape with the same energy and spirit that he relished in Arizona's physical landscape.  I'm proud that his likeness will soon take its rightful place alongside our country's most notable statesmen, patriots and citizens."

“There is no Arizonan that will represent our state in Statuary Hall better than Senator Barry Goldwater,” said State Senator Adam Driggs, who sponsored the original legislation for the statue.  “He belongs in Statuary Hall.  We are very excited to move closer to that goal with the selection of such a gifted and accomplished artist as Deborah Copenhaver Fellows.  We are also pleased that all four of Senator Goldwater’s children participated in the selection process.”

The sculpture of Senator Goldwater will join Father Eusebio Kino in representing Arizona in a Hall of the U.S. Capitol, likely in early 2013.  The Statue of John Campbell Greenway, created by famed artist Gutzon Borglum, has been in Statuary Hall since 1930 and will return to Arizona and be placed in the Arizona Capitol.

The project is funded solely by private donations and not by any state general fund monies.

AHAC is a commission under the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records Division of the Secretary of State. For more information about AHAC visit the commission's website at www.azcentennial.gov.

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Department now open 24 hours a day

Kids previously cared for in hospital’s adult ER during morning hours

Glendale, Ariz. (Jan. 23, 2012) – For the first time since Banner Thunderbird introduced a separate pediatric area within its larger emergency department, care is now available 24 hours a day in this dedicated area, marking another significant milestone in the continuing expansion of the hospital’s pediatric services.

“This 24/7 pediatric ED area has been the vision for the department since a pediatric area within our ED was first created 10 years ago,” said Amy Forsberg, director of Banner Thunderbird’s Emergency Department.

Previously, children who arrived at the hospital for emergency care between 4 and 10 a.m. were evaluated and treated alongside adults in the hospital’s main Emergency Department.

Two converging trends - an increasing preference for pediatric care at Banner Thunderbird and the increased demand for emergency care during the winter months – led hospital officials to determine that it made sense to keep the pediatric area open around the clock starting this month. The timing is particularly beneficial for the community due to the prevalence of bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma and stomach flu in kids this time of year.

“During the summer we see 40 patients a day and now we are seeing 60 to 80 patients per day,” said Dr. Bill Schneider, medical director of Banner Thunderbird’s Pediatric ED.

“We really are increasing the quality of care by expanding our hours,” he said. “One thing that won’t change, however, is our goal to provide the best care possible to these patients.”

At one acre in size, Banner Thunderbird’s Emergency Department is one of the largest in the Valley, and includes a separate pediatric emergency department dedicated to caring for kids. The department is staffed by physicians and nurses specially trained to care for children.

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center – part of Banner Health, a nonprofit health system with 23 hospitals throughout the West—is the leading provider of pediatric care in the West Valley. Services include a dedicated Pediatric Emergency Department, 40 pediatric inpatient beds, a pediatric intensive care unit, pediatric surgery and a Level III neonatal intensive care unit.

• Cable-backed group calls for end of blackout rule for pay TV
  The Federal Communications Commission wants public input on whether it should eliminate a regulation that prohibits pay-TV companies from airing professional sports events that can't be broadcast in their local markets when they are not sellout events. The FCC is being petitioned for the change by the Sports Fans Coalition, which is partly funded by Time Warner Cable and Verizon, and other public interest groups.

Glendale Police Release Names of Phoenix Officers Involved Shooting

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is releasing the names of the three Phoenix Police Officers involved in the officer involved shooting incident that occurred at 59^th and Cactus Road on Wednesday, January 18^th, 2012.  The Phoenix Police Officers who discharged their firearms at the scene are:  Sergeant Bill Gatlin, Officer Jeff Anders, and Officer Alex Crabbs.

            The suspect who was struck by gunfire, after pointing a firearm in the direction of officers, is a Hispanic male in his mid to late twenties. The suspect’s identity is yet to be determined.  Once he is positively identified, that information will be made public.  The suspect is still hospitalized locally, in critical but stable condition.  The suspect is facing several charges in Phoenix and Glendale, including several counts of aggravated assault on a police officer.  The details regarding those charges will be provided at a later date.  There is no additional information to be released regarding the investigation at this time.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR FEATURES
LOCAL RESOURCES FOR PUBLIC JANUARY 28

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – Local companies and organizations will share products and provide services such as free chair massages and blood pressure checks at the 5th annual Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center, 5600 W. Union Hills Dr.

         Gain valuable information at the event, and explore natural and organic products, dentists, local cancer advocates, personal trainers, tobacco prevention, aquatics safety and many more resources at booths and information tables.

         In addition, free tours of the Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center will be held during the fair.  The center offers a wide variety of fitness options including rock wall climbing, lap swimming, cardio machines, free weights and fitness classes. The Foothills Recreation & Aquatics Center is a division of the Glendale Parks, Recreation and Library Services Department.

         For more information, call 623-930-4608 or visit www.glendaleaz.com/foothillscenter

All comments on the Draft EIS must be postmarked or received by March 14, 2012, for consideration in the Final EIS. Written comments on the Draft EIS may be submitted to:

 
David Martin, Air Force Contractor, and Kim Fornof
HQ AETC/A7CPP
266 F Street West, Bldg. 901
Randolph AFB, TX 78150-4319
Fax: 210-652-5649
Email: aetc.a7cp.inbox@us.af.mil

Written and oral comments may also be submitted in person at the public hearings. A stenographer will be available for those wanting to submit an oral comment.

Public Hearings:  Four public hearings near Luke Air Force Base will be held to inform the public and receive public comments on the Draft EIS. All hearings include an open house information session from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., followed by a presentation and formal public comment session from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Representatives from the Air Force will be available during the open house session to provide information and to answer questions related to the Draft EIS.

Public hearings will be held:

Open House Information Session: 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

                                  Presentation/Formal Comment Session: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Date: Feb. 13, 2012

Location:  
The Wigwam, Wigwam Ballroom
300 E. Wigwam Blvd.
 Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

Date: Feb. 14, 2012

Location:  
El Mirage Elementary School Gym
N. El Mirage Road 
 El Mirage, AZ 85335

Date: Feb. 15, 2012

Location:  
Auditorium at Sundial Recreation Center
14801 N. 103rd Ave.
Sun City, AZ 85351

Date: Feb. 16, 2012

Location:  
Gila Bend Unified School District Cafeteria 
308 N. Martin Ave.
Gila Bend, AZ  85337

For More Information:  Information related to the Draft EIS is available on the project website at www.F-35ATrainingEIS.com. 
For more information about the project, please contact David Martin, Air Force contractor, or Kim Fornof at 210-652-1961 or email aetc.a7cp.inbox@us.af.mil.

Glendale Police Release Names of Phoenix Officers Involved Shooting

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Police Department is releasing the names of the three Phoenix Police Officers involved in the officer involved shooting incident that occurred at 59^th and Cactus Road on Wednesday, January 18^th, 2012.  The Phoenix Police Officers who discharged their firearms at the scene are:  Sergeant Bill Gatlin, Officer Jeff Anders, and Officer Alex Crabbs.

            The suspect who was struck by gunfire, after pointing a firearm in the direction of officers, is a Hispanic male in his mid to late twenties. The suspect’s identity is yet to be determined.  Once he is positively identified, that information will be made public.  The suspect is still hospitalized locally, in critical but stable condition.  The suspect is facing several charges in Phoenix and Glendale, including several counts of aggravated assault on a police officer.  The details regarding those charges will be provided at a later date.  There is no additional information to be released regarding the investigation at this time.

A Chase, A Crash, Shots Fired 
-  Spanning 2 Cities
By - Ed Sharpe - Glendale Daily Planet

Preliminary Article more info as available... Video to follow...

 

<Glendale Daily Planet 1/18/2011> This afternoon a suspect was shot after pulling a gun on Phoenix police officers.

Authorities say the man was a the intersection of Thunderbird and 31st  Avenue on Wednesday,  saw officers and started a red light running spree.

The suspects  big mistake was to pull a gun on police officers and brandish it. When weapons come out it changes the level of the game entirely. 

Officer James Holmes, PIO - Phoenix PD stated, "We believe if he's willing to pull out a weapon and point it toward police and drive erratically without regard to public safety, then we have got to do our best to get this guy stopped,"

When the  suspect  got to 59th Avenue and Cactus, he crashed into a passenger car, however the  second driver escaped injury. 

When the suspect got out of his car, officers say he once again pointed his gun at them.

"Three Phoenix police officers fearing for their lives discharged their weapons and he was struck," said Tracey Breeden, PIO - Glendale Police Department.

Apparently the suspect did not have any life threatening  injuries.    We  were unable to obtain  his name.

Police are puzzled why the suspect, described as a Hispanic male in his mid-20s, ran from officers.

Traffic in the vicinity of  59th ave. and cactus was rerouted for hours while the suspect was handled,  scene investigated and then cleaned up.

HEAR ALL THE DETAILS

Officer James Holmes, PIO for Phoenix PD statement -MP3 File HERE

Glendale Police PIO Officer Tracy Breeden statement - MP3 File HERE

Ed Sharpe / Glendale Daily Planet 

Looking  over toward 59 Ave. and Cactus.
Glendale  Patrol cars block off access to the crash scene where  gun- toting  driver was finally apprehended.

Ed Sharpe / Glendale Daily Planet

Glendale Police Officers  J. Martinson and  D. Atkins establish a perimeter  for media and bystanders

Ed Sharpe / Glendale Daily Planet

Glendale Police PIO Officer Tracy Breeden explained to us that even though the shooting was by  Phoenix Police Officers it is Glendale's responsibility to  conduct the investigation since it happened within Glendale City Limits.

Ed Sharpe / Glendale Daily Planet

Officer James Holmes, PIO for Phoenix PD stated, "We believe if he's willing to pull out a weapon and point it toward police and drive erratically without regard to public safety, then we have got to do our best to get this guy stopped."

A tradition at Arizona State University’s West campus that dates back to 1991 will continue at 11 a.m., Jan. 18, as Charles St. Clair reenacts Martin Luther King Jr.’s most famous speech. The public is invited to attend this free event on the campus at 4701 W. Thunderbird Road in Phoenix. Visitor parking on campus costs $2 per hour.

St. Clair, a faculty member in ASU’s New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, will deliver the “I Have a Dream” speech as part of the West campus’s annual March on West event. More than 800 local middle school students will gather at the campus’s Paley Gates to reenact the 1963 March on Washington, which provided the setting for King’s speech.

“It’s an honor to share this unforgettable speech with a group of young people,” St. Clair said. “You never know who will be inspired to do great things by hearing Dr. King’s powerful message of harmony among all people.”

Sixth- through eighth-graders from local elementary and middle schools will arrive on the West campus in the morning and participate in educational sessions focusing on the civil rights movement during the 1960s. They then will meet at the Paley Gates to reenact a civil rights march, ending at the Fletcher Library lawn in the center of campus, where St. Clair will deliver the “I Have a Dream” speech.

St. Clair, an Emmy Award-winning actor and director, has served as an ASU faculty member since 1990. He is the 2011 recipient of the Promoting Inclusiveness Award from the city of Glendale, Ariz. Active in the entertainment industry locally and nationally as a director and lighting designer for stage productions including “Race,” “A House with No Walls,” “August in April,” “The Colored Museum,” and “Topdog/Underdog,” St. Clair also has appeared in numerous films and television commercials. At the West campus, he teaches classes in acting, directing and technical production for the Division of Humanities, Arts and Cultural Studies in ASU’s New College.

For more information about the March on West event, call (602) 543-5300. Information about MLK events and activities on all ASU campuses may be found at http://asu.edu/mlk/.

LOOKING TO BECOME A LEADER IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD? 

GLENDALE OFFERS FREE CLASS.

GLENDALE, Ariz. – If you’ve ever entertained the idea of becoming an HOA board member in your neighborhood, but were intimidated by the thought, Glendale has a class for you. Registration is now available for Glendale’s Homeowner Association Training Academy, open through Jan. 20. But hurry, space is limited!

The eight session, educational program is open to all Glendale Homeowners Association (HOA) board members and residents who want to learn more about the operations of HOAs. Graduates of the class will gain the tools needed to more effectively manage and lead their HOA.

Each class highlights a different topic and will be held from 6 – 8:30 p.m., Tuesday evenings Jan. 24, and 31 and Feb. 7 and Wednesday evening, Feb. 15. Saturday morningclasses are from 9 – 11:30 a.m., Jan. 28, Feb. 4, 11 and 18.  All classes are part of the session.

To register, visit www.glendaleaz.com/education and click on  “HOA Training” to print out an application or call (623) 930-2868 to receive an application by mail or fax.

Midwestern University Joins National Commitment to Improve Veterans’ Health

GLENDALE, Arizona/DOWNERS GROVE, Illinois (January 17, 2012) – Midwestern University will participate in Joining Forces, a national initiative to improve healthcare for veterans and their families as part of White House sponsored program announced this month.

Midwestern joins other members of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) and Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) in the commitment to create a new generation of doctors, medical schools, and research facilities that will make sure veterans and their families receive the care worthy of their sacrifice. 

“Midwestern University has many graduates, faculty members, and staff who have served in the military or are currently serving. Their commitment to our country is inspiring and we thank them for their many sacrifices,” said Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., President and CEO or Midwestern University.  “As a University focused entirely on healthcare, we are honored to participate in this program to ensure our veterans and their families receive the best healthcare possible.”

By participating in the initiative, Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine and Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine have agreed to:

•         Train medical students as well as current physicians, faculty, and staff to better diagnose and treat veterans and military families;

•         Develop new research and clinical trials on post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury to better understand and treat those conditions;

•         Share their information and best practices through a collaborative web forum; and

•         Continue to work with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense to make sure that everyone is providing the best care available. 

Midwestern University provides students with numerous opportunities to learn more about healthcare issues facing veterans and participation in the Joining Forces program will help augment their education and clinical experiences. The Joining Forces initiative is spearheaded by first lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden and was created to bring Americans together to recognize, honor, and take action to support veterans and military families as they serve our country and throughout their lives. More information is available at: www.JoiningForces.gov.

###

Midwestern University is a graduate degree-granting institution specializing in the health sciences with nine colleges and two campuses. The Illinois campus, located on a 105-acre site in Downers Grove, is home to over 2,300 students and four colleges: the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Chicago College of Pharmacy, the College of Health Sciences, and the College of Dental Medicine-Illinois.  The Arizona campus, located on a 144-acre site in Glendale, is home to over 2,800 students and five colleges: the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, the College of Pharmacy-Glendale, the College of Health Sciences, the College of Dental Medicine-Arizona, and the Arizona College of Optometry. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

CHOCOLATE, CHOCOLATE AND MORE CHOCOLATE DOMINATE DOWNTOWN GLENDALE FEBRUARY 3-5

   GLENDALE, Ariz. –The weekend before Valentine’s Day, Feb. 3-5, is a delicious delight for the senses as the Glendale Chocolate Affaire takes over downtown Glendale to create a chocolate-lover’s dream!

Chocolate purveyors from Arizona and around the nation gather in Glendale for this award-winning festival, which celebrates not only chocolate, but romance and the arts as well. Chocolate confections will include items such as chocolate-covered bacon, chocolate-covered churros, chocolate-covered twinkies, chocolate-covered key lime pie, fried ice cream with chocolate and strawberries, chocolate-covered crepes and much more.

The Chocolate Affaire is sponsored by Arizona’s famous candy makers, Cerreta’s. The candy factory will offer tours all weekend, so visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at how the chocolatiers create everyone’s favorite candy.

In addition, the festival has become the largest gathering of national romance novelists in the Southwest. This symposium of literary romantics offers fans the opportunity to get up close and personal with authors, as well as the chance to attend free writing workshops given by the experts.

Families with children will enjoy myriad activities, including hands-on arts and crafts, face-painting and a rock-climbing wall. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available throughout the weekend to take couples or families on a scenic, charming ride through the historic Catlin Court district.    

Event hours are Friday 5 - 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. The event is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Glendale, in Murphy Park, located at 58^th and Glendale avenues.

The Glendale Chocolate Affaire festival was named one of the Top 100 Events in North America by the Washington Post, the Seattle Times and the American Bus Association. The event also was bestowed with the 2003 Governor’s Tourism Award for the Best Special Event in Arizona.

The Glendale Chocolate Affaire is sponsored by Cerreta’s Candy Company, ABC 15, The Arizona Republic, Valley Buick-GMC Dealers, YooHoo, KMLE, KOOL and JAMZ.

WEST VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNTIES ACCELERATE DUE TO NEW 
FOREIGN TRADE ZONE PROJECT



Greater Maricopa Foreign Trade Zone, Inc.’s new structure will enhance the region’s ability to attract new businesses and employment opportunities for communities in western Maricopa County.



January 17, 2012 – Peoria, AZ – WESTMARC received final approval for the Greater Maricopa Foreign Trade Zone, Inc. (GMFTZ) Zone #277, to operate under the Alternative Site Framework (ASF) structure. The ASF structure is authorized by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Foreign-Trade Zones Board, and allows GMFTZ (the Zone Grantee) to expedite approval for new Usage-Driven Zone requests. 


GMFTZ Zone #277 was originally formed in 2010 under the Traditional Site Framework (TSF) structure. GMFTZ applied for restructuring under the new format because the ASF is a more nimble, business-friendly process, and provides expedited approval for businesses that qualify for FTZ status. A qualifying business interested in locating within WESTMARC’s region can now apply under the expedited ASF, which drastically reduces the amount of time typically required for review and processing at the federal level. “This ASF approval paves another avenue for attracting businesses to our communities by offering them the best economic tools available,” said Michelle Rider, President & CEO of WESTMARC, which provides support and marketing services to GMFTZ Zone #277.


Since its formation, GMFTZ Zone #277 has acted as a primary catalyst for attracting new economic development and businesses to the West Valley. “We are thrilled with the activity that has occurred within the first year of the Zone’s existence and look forward to its continued positive impact on our economic development efforts to attract new businesses and employment opportunities to the communities we serve,” said Jack Lunsford, President of GMFTZ. Currently, the GMFTZ includes six sites throughout the West Valley with locations in the City of Goodyear, the City of Surprise and one west of the Town of Buckeye. 


The GMFTZ project has stimulated growth within the West Valley through the attraction of three manufacturing companies that have either relocated or expanded their local facilities and operations as a direct result of utilizing the new FTZ program. These three manufacturing entities, along with a large retail distribution project currently being established, will increase employment opportunities for the residents and attract more businesses to follow. “This Zone has been a catalyst in just twelve short months for the development of more than 1.7 million square feet of industrial space, which has been activated and filled with West Valley employees. Not all companies can benefit from an FTZ; a number of factors must be reviewed and analyzed to make that determination. However, many companies are seeing significant federal and state benefits with FTZ No. 277,” said Curtis Spencer, national FTZ consultant and Zone expert. Completing a cost-benefit analysis can provide an organization with an estimate of the costs and savings associated with establishing an FTZ. IMS Worldwide, Inc., Mr. Spencer’s firm, offers a free online cost-benefit analysis tool that provides you with this valuable insight (www.imsw.com/costbenefitform.htm). 


Greater Maricopa FTZ, Inc. is the Grantee and Administrator of Zone #277. WESTMARC is the West Valley’s partnership of public, private and educational sectors. WESTMARC’s mission is to advance the region’s interests toward encouraging economic development and enhancing the quality of life for citizens in the West Valley of Maricopa County (www.westmarc.org). WESTMARC’s communities include: Avondale, Buckeye, El Mirage, Gila Bend, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Peoria, West Phoenix, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise, Tolleson, Wickenburg and Youngtown.

Crime Author Hilary Davidson

Signs “The Next One to Fall” at the Library

Wednesday, February 22 at Velma Teague Branch Library

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Crime novelist Hilary Davidson will discuss and sign “The Next One to Fall,” the new sequel to the Anthony and Crimespree Award-winning “The Damage Done,” during the Authors @ the Teague event at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 22 at Velma Teague Branch Library, 7010 N. 58^th Ave.  

            A trip to Peru with her best friend was supposed to help travel writer Lily Moore recover from a recent tragedy. Instead, she’s caught up in a murder once again at the Incan ruins of Machu Picchu, when she hears a dying woman name the man who pushed her down the stairs. After the death is ruled an accident, Lily investigates the wealthy man on her own, uncovering a trail of dead and missing women that begs the question: who will be the next one to fall? “An atmospheric mystery with an ending that packs a punch.” (Meg Gardiner, author of “The Nightmare Thief”)

Hilary Davidson won the 2009 Watery Grave Invitational and the 2010 Spinetingler Award for her short crime stories. She is the author of 18 nonfiction books, including some Frommer’s guides, and has been published in more than 40 magazines. In 2008, she founded the “Gluten-Free Guidebook” website for gluten-intolerant travelers like herself. According to her website, Hilary has explored “the cemeteries of New Orleans, Pompeii’s brothels, and Bangkok’s seedy night markets” as a travel writer, not to mention “diving for shipwrecks in the icy waters of the St. Lawrence River.” A lover of “vintage clothing, classic Hollywood movies, and Art Deco design” and a former resident of Toronto, she now lives in New York. For more information, see www.hilarydavidson.com.

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

NOW ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR THE 2012 RUTH BYRNE HISTORIC PRESERVATION AWARD

    GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Historic Preservation Commission is accepting nominations for the 17^th Annual Ruth Byrne Historic Preservation Award. The purpose of the award is to recognize individuals or organizations for outstanding contributions to Glendale’s historic heritage.

The award is named after Ruth Byrne, a current Glendale native, who continues to make significant contributions to historic preservation in the city of Glendale. 

Nomination forms are available at the following locations:

·         Glendale Main Library – 59^th Avenue and Brown Street

·         Velma Teague Library – 58^th Avenue and Glendale Avenue

·         Foothills Library – 57^th Avenue and Union Hills Drive

·         Glendale City Hall 2^nd Floor Reception Desk – 5850 W. Glendale Ave.

·         Glendale Planning Department – 5850 W. Glendale Avenue, #212

·         Website – www.glendaleaz.com/planning/historicpreservation.cfm.

Submitted nomination forms will be reviewed by the Glendale Historic Preservation Commission and the award will be presented in the month of May to coincide with National Historic Preservation Month. Here are the previous winners.

2011     Thunderbird Tower Restoration Committee – Restoration of Tower at the Thunderbird School of Global Management

2010     Natalie Stahl - Restoration of the C.H. Tinker House and spearheading neighborhood improvement initiatives in Orchard  Glen, particularly through   the Weed & Seed Program

2010     Mrs. Henning’s After School Technology Class at Glendale American School - A historic preservation project  honoring Glendale’s Centennial

2009     Nelda Crowell – Outstanding service and dedication in preserving the history of Thunderbird Field

2008     John Akers – Outstanding service for his historic preservation efforts and service to the community

2007     Glendale Woman’s Club - Outstanding service to the community and preservation of the clubhouse

2006     Julia Phillips - Outstanding service as Sahuaro Ranch tour guide and preserving Glendale’s history

2005     Lori Green – Contributions to preservation efforts in Catlin Court

2005     Dan Kallberg - Preserving the story of the Glendale Police Department through the Glendale Police Museum

2004     Juanita Buckley - Preservation of a 1919 bungalow, creating the Marty Robbins Museum, and annual music festival

2003        Charles Sands and Louis “Buzzard” Sands IV - Support for Manistee Ranch, the date grove acquisition, and financial and technical assistance in restoration of the ranch house

2002        Ruth Byrne - Recognition of 20 years of energetic involvement in all aspects of historic preservation and education in the City of Glendale and exemplifying innovative leadership in community preservation activities

2001        Sandy Kralovetz - Preservation & revitalization of the 1917 Christian Church bungalow and preservation efforts in Catlin Court

2001     Larry Rovey - Support of the Sahuaro Ranch Foundation and preservation of Glendale’s Agrarian heritage

2000        Carol and Dr. Charles St. Clair - Significant contributions to historic preservation in Glendale, Arizona

1999     Sue Branch – Contribution to the revitalization of the Catlin Court specialty area of downtown Glendale

1999        Glendale Historical Society - 25 years of contributions to historic preservation efforts in Glendale

1998        Martha Campbell - Preservation and restoration of a Glendale landmark in historic Catlin Court

1997        Glendale Mayor Elaine Scruggs - For her leadership in preserving the 100-year old Manistee Ranch main house and palm grove

1996        Richard Coffinger - Preserving and restoring the First National Bank building in downtown Glendale

Nominations must be received on or before March 1, 2012 and should be sent to Jon Froke at the city of Glendale Planning Department, 5850 W Glendale Avenue, Suite 212, Glendale, Arizona 85301; or by e-mail to jfroke@glendaleaz.com.

NEW MUSIC BUSINESS BRINGS ARTS & CULTURE

TO GLENDALE CENTERLINE DISTRICT

         GLENDALE, Ariz. – Jivemind Cooperative Music Labs, a one-of-a-kind business concept focused on promoting and growing music, has chosen Glendale’s historic Centerline district for its local headquarters.   The Glendale City Council approved an agreement for Jivemind to lease a 6,500-square-foot city-owned building at 5747 W. Glenn Dr. (the former Bead Museum).

         Jivemind specializes in providing musicians and instructors recording studios, instruments, lessons, workshops and performance opportunities.  In addition, Jivemind has committed to providing 38 free downtown events throughout the year.  

         “Enhancing the downtown with more arts and culture, such as Jivemind, continues to be an economic priority for the city and a major factor in carefully weaving together the unique fabric of Centerline,” said Brian Friedman, Glendale Economic Development Director.  “Jivemind combines arts and education, which are elements that help develop a prosperous and dynamic community with the opportunity to attract more visitors and increase revenue from those visitors.”

         Jivemind’s national parent company, Inter Technologies, Inc., specializes in audio and video technology to both private and public entities. Created in 2000, Inter Technologies, Inc. has 50 employees nationwide and is ranked by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing women-owned businesses in the country.

“Our company believes there is opportunity in Glendale, especially with a unique business like Jivemind that will serve as an incubator, co-working space and resource center for local musicians, a place like no other in this area,” said Jivemind’s Jeff Rose. “We chose downtown Glendale because of the location, the support between the city and the local merchants and the opportunity to have our clients be part of the synergy in the downtown from the festivals to the redevelopment focus in the area.” 

Jivemind will also feature the work of local artists inside its building and offer completed works for sale in its gallery along with instruments and accessories that are for sale.  As part of the lease agreement with the city, Jivemind will provide outreach opportunities for youth in the community with music lessons and access to instruments.    

For more information about Jivemind Cooperative Music Labs, visit www.jivemindmusic.com.  For more information about the city of Glendale’s Economic Development Department, go to www.glendaleaz.com/economicdevelopment.

Design a Dozen Event at Glendale Flowers
Saturday, January 28th from Noon to 1 p.m.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Maureen Wilson, owner of Glendale Flowers and an Arizona Master Florist will be teaching and demonstrating how to create a floral arrangement of a dozen long stemmed flowers. There will be two levels of participation:  For $25, participants will make and take an arrangement of one dozen beautiful carnations.  For $40, participants will make and take an arrangement of one dozen long stemmed roses. Refreshments will be served.  Glendale Flowers is the recent recipient of Phoenix Magazine’s “Best Florist in the Valley” award. For more information and to register, call 623-931-2416. Limit of 10 participants. Registration deadline of January 25^th.

NEW YEAR, NEW RESTAURANT AT GLENDALE AIRPORT

            GLENDALE, Ariz. – The Glendale Municipal Airport is starting off the new year with a new restaurant for pilots, staff and visitors to enjoy while at the facility. The new restaurant, called Left Seat West, opened Jan. 2.

            Left Seat West will be open daily from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a breakfast and lunch menu, with items ranging in price from $4.50 to $8.95. On Fridays, the restaurant will offer a special fish fry and remain open into the evening hours based on customer demand.

Left Seat West proprietor Ron Zamenski and his wife Karen previously owned The Left Seat, located at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport for several years, but decided to relocate to the Glendale area.  

Located just five miles west of downtown Glendale, five miles east of Luke Air Force Base, and 30 minutes northwest of downtown Phoenix, Glendale’s 477-acre modern airport features a beautifully designed two-story, 18,000 square-foot terminal, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Contract control tower, and complete airport services for general aviation and corporate jet traffic.

For more information on the restaurant, call 623-877-2208, or visit www.leftseatrestaurant.com. For more information on the Glendale Municipal Airport, visit www.glendaleaz.com/airport.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 981

The streets of downtown Glendale were a "glow" one more time this 2011-2012 holiday-lights display comes to an end.  Saturday night, January 14 was the 17th Annual Glendale Glitter & Glow Block Party.  The weather was just right for the balloons no rain and the winds were calm.  If the wind is blowing more than 5 miles per hour, the balloon cannot be inflated because it would be too difficult to hold the balloon in place.  It takes about 33 gallons of propane per balloon to keep it up and glowing for an hour to and hour and a half.  The event  included 10 bands, 1.5 million glittering lights and two dozen hot air balloons.  And of course food, refreshments and music.  The event is also free, but parking in the two garages was $10.00. 

A thank you is due to Murphy Park and its inhabitants (birds, trees and other critters who call Murphy Park home) for their hospitality since November of last year.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no. 969.

A giant  Bee was seen in downtown Glendale last Saturday night.  The big balloons are about 60 feet wide and about 80 feet tall.  The big bee was NOT completely fired up yet.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no.949.

The last night for the Glendale Glitter lights, in Murphy Park, included live music, rides and food.

Bette Sharpe/Glendale Daily Planet no.

Zimis (Rock) jams as part of the many and varied musical groups performing live and in the open as part of the Block Party events.  Other bands listed on the program were Coldshott & the Hurricane Horns, and Journey Unauthorized, Oak Creek (Indie/Folk/Groove), Midnight Mojo (Classic Rock), Muskellunge Bluegrass (Bluegrass), Peppermint James (Groove Rock), Come Back Buddy (50's), Coldsoup (Pop), Rhythm Edition (top 40/Variety), Urban County Band (Country), and Amethyst, the Atomic Hooper will perform with glow-in-the-day hula hoops.

Co-host of Meteorite Men Show and Former Skylab Astronaut

Make Presidents Day Weekend Appearances

February Events Coincide with the

50^th Anniversary of America ’s First Orbital Flight and

the Arizona SciTech Festival

January 16, 2012, Peoria AZ –  On Presidents Day Weekend, February 18-20, 2012, Challenger Space Center Arizona is hosting a trio of special events featuring TV celebrity Geoffrey Notkin from Science Channel’s Meteorite Men, a Smithsonian Institution Exhibit, and former NASA Astronaut Dr. Ed Gibson, the science-pilot of Skylab 4.

The Space Center , located in Peoria , is a signature location for the 1^st Annual SciTech Festival, a statewide event taking place during February and March 2012.  The Presidents Day weekend events also commemorate the 50th Anniversary of America’s first orbital flight around Earth on February 20, 1962 – John Glenn’s historic mission.

Saturday, February 18:   Geoffrey Notkin, co-host of the TV Show Meteorite Men, is making an all-day guest appearance at the Challenger Space Center in Peoria , including an Educators' Workshop, book signing, and dinner with a presentation on his meteorite hunting escapades, which have taken him around the globe. Meteorites are the oldest things on the planet, and Notkin’s company, Aerolite Meteorites LLC, donated nine of them to Challenger Space Center last year for the museum’s collection.  The evening event is a fundraiser in support of the Center’s educational programs, and tickets are $79 per person, or $99 per person to include a copy of Notkin’s recently released how-to book Meteorite Hunting: Finding Treasure From Space.  Groups receive a discount, with Tables of 8 priced at $475.  The hit show Meteorite Men, seen on The Science Channel, is in its third season and has won two Emmy awards.  It uniquely combines adventure with science, as Notkin and co-star Steve Arnold travel the earth in search of extraterrestrial treasure.  Notkin is also bringing The Mule, a space-rock hunting truck used by the team on the show, which will be on display at Challenger Space Center Arizona .

Sunday, February 19:  Visit the Smithsonian Exhibit, “An Astronaut’s Life: Articles Flown in Space,” hear from a scientist in the Center’s new M.A.R.S. Project (Meet A Real Scientist), take a tour of the Center, and fly a Mission to Mars at 1 p.m. in the Challenger spaceflight simulator.  Also, fly rocket balloons in the four-story rotunda, view a movie in the theater, and catch an interactive, hair-raising demonstration on the Nature of Light.  The M.A.R.S. Project brings real scientists together with the public, offering community science engagement for visitors of all ages.  After his presentation on February 19, John Meschberger, a Propulsion Engineer with Orbital Sciences, will be assembling and static firing a rocket motor, then bringing it back inside and examining it with the audience.  The Center is open from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. seven days a week; space mission requires pre-registration and an additional fee. 

Monday, February 20:  Exactly 50 years ago, February 20, 1962, NASA astronaut John Glenn became a national hero as the first American to orbit Earth in the Friendship 7 space capsule.  In celebration of this historic event, former NASA astronaut Dr. Edward Gibson, who spent more than 84 days in space as science-pilot of Skylab 4, will give a presentation at the Center at 10:30 a.m., followed by an autograph session from 12-1:30 p.m.  The Center is also open for public tours and exhibit viewing.  Cost:  General admission, $8 for adults, $7 for seniors (55+) and military, $5 for students (4-18), free for children ages 3 and under and Challenger Members.

Details on all Presidents Day weekend events, including pricing and online registration and ticket purchase, are available at www.azchallenger.org.  The Center is offering a special Members Price of $99 for the three-day weekend, including all of the activities and celebrity encounters, a generous savings from the package value of $138.50.  Other ticket packages are also available.  Memberships for individuals ($45), couples ($60) and families ($75) are available at http://azchallenger.org/join-the-center and are good for one year.  Members receive free general admission all year long and discounts on many special events and programs throughout the year.

Please call 623-322-2001 for more information or visit www.azchallenger.org for details on these and other upcoming events.

Looking for photos we shot of you at the event? Some of them are posted HERE...  More will be added to the main article as days go on.

Sketch Me If You Can by Sharon Pape

I had been hoarding the books in Sharon Pape’s Portrait of Crime mystery series, so when she told me the third one was due out soon, it was time to go back and start the first book, Sketch Me If You Can.

Banner Thunderbird Medical Center
Heart Health Community Lecture Series

“Food, Diet and Cardiac Disease”


GLENDALE  (Jan. 16, 2012) – Banner Thunderbird Medical Center is holding its next FREE monthly Heart Health Community Lecture Series on
Wednesday, February 15 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The session will be presented by Dominica Dieffenbach, Registered Dietician


Dominica will be focusing on the Mediterranean Diet, which is both a diet and lifestyle which emphasizes fish, fruits, vegetables and olive oil as the main fat source and very low content of sugars and processed foods. There is a great deal of research that shows that eating foods from the “Mediterranean” region can be beneficial in preventing and managing heart disease and many other diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes and can also help with weight loss.

What:   Food, Diet and Cardiac Disease

When:  Wednesday, February 15 , 2012 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Where: Banner Thunderbird Medical Center

            5555 West Thunderbird Road, Glendale AZ 85306

           Conference Room 6 on the Lower Level.  Take the main lobby elevator down to the Lower Level.  
       

To Register:  Call 230-CARE (2273) to reserve your seat.  Registration is not required but is suggested so we can let you know of any last-minute changes.

Nutrition Expert Beth Aldrich
Helps “Real Moms Love to Eat”

Saturday, February 18 at Velma Teague Branch Library

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Healthy lifestyle and nutrition expert Beth Aldrich will discuss and sign her new book, “Real Moms Love to Eat; How to Conduct a Love Affair with Food, Lose Weight, and Feel Fabulous,” during the Authors @ the Teague event at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 18 at Velma Teague Branch Library, 7010 N. 58^th Ave.  

 Do you want to gain energy, lose weight, and really enjoy eating? Do you want to learn how to be healthier and happier, and help your family do the same? Packed full of fun and friendly anecdotes, advice, and recipes, this ten-week lifestyle makeover aims to change your relationship with food – and change your life in the bargain. “A very good primer to help you begin to make your diet an ally, not an enemy, in today’s time-compressed world.” (Dr. Barry Sears, author of the “Zone Diet” books)

Former host and producer of her own nationally syndicated PBS television series, “For Her Information,” Beth Aldrich founded her own media company. Following a 2007 car accident which she recounted in “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms,” she became intensely interested in the power of nutrition to improve our lives. After studying at The Institute for Integrative Nutrition with such luminaries as Deepak Chopra, Andrew Weil, David Wolfe, Dr. Walter Willett, and Barry Sears, she is now a Certified Holistic Health and Nutritional Counselor through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Residing in Chicago with her husband, three sons, and two terriers, she enjoys swimming, knitting, yoga, golf, Sudoku, and running marathons. For more information, see www.realmomslovetoeat.com and www.bethaldrich.com.

Free business programs are being offered in February at the Glendale Public Libraries:

Wednesday, February 1

The Business Forum Presents

 “Marketing with QR Codes” 

Business networking through The Business Forum at Glendale Library is a productive way of establishing beneficial relationships with potential clients and area business people. On Wednesday, February 1, the group will meet in the large meeting room at Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown Street. The free event is from 5:30–7:15 p.m.

Attendees are invited to meet new contacts, exchange business cards and share their stories. Additionally, every month a featured speaker presents information on a variety of current business topics. February speaker, Jeff Gottschalk will present “Marketing with QR Codes: How QR Codes Can Grow Your Bottom Line!”

A QR code (abbreviated for Quick Response code) resembles a barcode and is becoming more visible on print advertisements, web pages, and even on T-shirts.  When scanned using a special smart phone application, the code can lead the user to a website, video, coupon or other information provided by the advertiser.

Gottschalk, Vice President of Sales for GottyCode, is recognized as an expert in QR code and mobile space. He has been presenting to and working with small and large businesses around the nation to develop innovative QR code solutions that drive sales.

His presentation will include how QR codes bring value to the mobile marketing space, the best QR code campaign concepts and placements, and how to get a return on investment from a QR code campaign.

Joan Howard is facilitating The Business Forum. Contact her at 602-725-3246 for more information about the program or to RSVP.

February Job Searching Labs

 at Glendale Main Library and the Velma Teague Branch Library

            Are you finding that job searching online can be overwhelming? Need help establishing an email account, creating a resume, or applying online? Glendale Public Library offers job coaching and assistance on the following dates in February:           

Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown Street, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. on the following Thursdays: February 2, 9 and 16. The lab will also be open on Tuesday, February 14 from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. Job Searching Labs are held in the large meeting room at the Main Library, and are facilitated by Steve Schrade, former director of Human Resources for Bashas’, and Estrella Mountain Community College instructor. 

Velma Teague Branch Library, 7010 N. 58^th Avenue - 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. on the following Wednesdays: February 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Job Searching Labs at Velma Teague are facilitated by Michael Burton, Information Technology Specialist at Glendale Public Library. No registration is necessary.

                The free job searching labs are made possible in part by a grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 along with the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records.

Job Searching Workshops

 at Glendale Main Library  

            The following free Job Searching Workshops are being offered by the Glendale Main Library in January:

·        Tuesday, February 7, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., “How to Find and Get Your Perfect Job.” Job seekers have the opportunity to learn the three stages of a successful job hunt during this three-hour workshop focusing on exploration, preparation and action. The use of personal branding, networking, resumes and Internet job-searching will be linked with resume distribution, interview preparation, and timely follow-up.

·        Tuesday, February 21, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., “Writing a Winning Resume.” This workshop covers the basics of developing, writing and distributing a basic resume and cover letter. The many “resume myths” will be discussed along with a “what not to do” checklist.

·        Tuesday, February 28, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., “Basic Computer Literacy for Your Job Search.” In today’s digital age, basic computer knowledge is no longer optional. It is also necessary in order to find a job. Topics covered in this free workshop range from effectively surfing the Internet to creating documents and using email to connect with employers and their network. Additionally the workshop will cover the basic parts of a computer and how they work, how to use software programs to create documents for the work search, how to create and use email and how to effectively search for jobs on the Internet.

The free workshops are held in the large meeting room at Glendale Main Library, 5959 W. Brown Street, and are presented by Steve Schrade, former director of Human Resources for Bashas’, and  Estrella Mountain Community College instructor. The job searching workshops are made possible in part by a grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, along with the Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records. 

OOHHH I LIKE THAT STAMP scrapbooking/stamping shop is going to be hosting a
 fundraiser event on March 10th to help Camp Tatiyee located in Lakeside, AZ 

OOHHH I LIKE THAT STAMP scrapbooking/stamping shop is going to be hosting a fundraiser event on March 10th to help Camp Tatiyee located in Lakeside, AZ with their wish list. This was a camp I attended when younger and have fond memories. I will be doing a scrapbooking/cardmaking marathon day to raise funds to purchase or collect donations from the wish list and bring it to Lakeside. http://www.arizonalionscamp.org/donors/wish-lists/.  If any questions, please contact me via email OOHHHILIKETHATSTAMP@Q.COM or call 623 252 1358 (you will be using the deaf interpeter operator to be able to talk with me). Thanks so much for helping and gettting involved!  Let's make 2012 success for Camp Tatiyee and remember this can be your first 2012 tax write off!
Jill Hornburg
OOHHH I LIKE THAT STAMP!
5757 W. GLENDALE AVE. STE 2
GLENDALE, AZ 85301
623.252.1358 VOICE/VP

West Valley 2012 
State of the State Luncheon
featuring

Watch the video HERE

AUDIO TRACK ONLY HERE (NO VIDEO!)

Thousands of Fiesta Bowl Fans

BOOST ECONOMY IN GLENDALE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – The city of Glendale welcomed thousands of out-of-state Stanford and Oklahoma State fans to an exciting overtime Fiesta Bowl game.  These fans spent a lot of their time off the field at Glendale businesses and hotels, providing a much-needed economic boost to the local economy and tourism industry.

A survey by Glendale’s tourism officials found Glendale hotels sold out or were near capacity. Research also indicates that fans stayed an average of three nights or more.  In addition, out-of-state travelers requested information on the city, Valley and state, and Glendale tourism staff assisted more than 2,900 visitors. This is a 137 percent increase from the previous month. Glendale’s Web sites had a 15 percent increase from the previous month in visitor traffic with more than 550,000 people visiting the city’s Web sites since Dec. 1.

A new social media outreach tool this year allowed the city to reach more than 200,000 fans through Twitter and Facebook. Weekly tweets and posts were targeted to various alumni and university Twitter followers and Facebook users. Information such as where to stay, events and activities and area destination points were provided through these tools.

“The Fiesta Bowl once again helped fill hotel room nights, giving us a great start to the New Year,” said Glendale Convention & Visitors Bureau Manager Lorraine Pino. “In addition, this BCS bowl game brings national exposure to Glendale and the West Valley, showcasing all the great amenities and attractions we have to offer.”