7_5_12 Today Publications

Daily News Updates Online at www.TodayPublications.com

Todaypublications

Today PublicationsYour Hometown newspaper

Volume 3, number 13 July 5, 2012

also in This issue:

Good samaritan saves the music for local fl utist

see story, Pages 6 & 7

Animal Rescue Moves to

san tan Valley,see Page 9

Last issue, we said to check back for a follow up with Payne Jr. High Teacher Eric Nedow who recently attended the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama as part of Honeywell’s Educators @ Space Academy program. It turns out that the weeklong academy was so great that we’ve decided Nedow’s adventure deserves the front-page treatment. Look for it in the July 19 issue (we promise).

coming up on July 19:

Today PublicaTions July 5, 2012

www.TodayPublications.com

Today PublicationsJames Carnes….....................................PublisherMichael Carnes...........................General ManagerJennifer Carnes................................…Editor-In-ChiefStacy Deprey-Purper............ Marketing & Social MediaZach Richter….................................Managing EditorChase Kamp............................................ReporterCourtney Trumbull…................................Offi ce Manager

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Published the fi rst and third Thursday of the month at 22713 S. Ellsworth Road, Building A, Queen Creek, AZ 85142 by Copper Area News Publishers. Mailing address is Today Publications, c/o Copper Area News Publishers, PO Box 579, Kearny, AZ 85137.

Telephone (480) 745-1055“There are numerous countries in the world where the politicians have seized absolute power and muzzled the press. There is no country in the world where the press has seized absolute power and muzzled the politicians”

—-David Brinkley

Editor, Today Publications: Who is Ruberto Revelis? He’s often negative and continually attacks Sheriff Paul Babeu during public meetings and through Letters to the Editor. Well, Mr. Revelis actually represents the ACLU. He’s not just a member – he’s their President. Not just for Pinal County, but for the entire state of Arizona. This explains a lot. The ACLU is a bunch of left wing kooks, who tear down America at every turn. They pursue a leftist agenda that includes censoring prayer and recognition of God in public institutions, such as public schools. This is the same group that always attacks Sheriff Joe Arpaio. In fact, they’re suing every elected Sheriff in Arizona to stop them from enforcing the law. They are suing to stop SB1070, which is the will of the people. We are a nation of laws and this ACLU agenda is weakening our

nation. So I’m not surprised that these same extremists are attacking Sheriff Paul Babeu. Did you see this week that the ACLU is threatening another lawsuit, saying that the Pinal County Jail is unsanitary? They claim the sheriff puts worms – yes worms in their food and that the conditions are unlivable. The ACLU is also alleging inhumane treatment of the illegals in the jail, due to a lack of quality recreation facilities. Let me say that again, the ACLU – which this Mr. Revelis heads up says that illegal immigrants are being treated inhumanly at our county Jail since they don’t have proper recreation facilities? Are you kidding me? It’s a Jail, not a country club. If you don’t want to be in jail, return to your own country. How about this - don’t break our laws. The illegals in our Pinal County Jail include level three inmates – these are some of the worst criminals,

in fact, ICE won’t even house them at their facility down the street, right here in Florence. Not only are these foreigners in America illegally, they have committed additional crimes - many of them violent crimes such as aggravated assault, felony domestic violence, burglary, grand theft, kidnapping, drug trafficking and gun running. Did I mention they are not Americans? They broke our laws and they complain and file lawsuits over inadequate recreational opportunities? Who pays for this non-sense? We pay for every cent. The taxpayers, not the ACLU. We pay the bill and Mr. Revelis has the nerve to file a lawsuit against the county because illegals – many of which are violent felons, don’t have the recreational facility they feel they’re entitled to. This is what is wrong with America. The ACLU may have

done some good in the past, yet they only attack and tear down law and order. The ACLU works hard at tearing down freedom, business, the laws of the land and our very own Sheriff Paul. All this while saying they are defending the rights of the oppressed. What about my rights? What about the rights of the majority? What about the rights of citizens who pay for this Jail and don’t have money to have their own gym membership? I’m tired of the ACLU and this costing us taxpayers millions to fight them. The ACLU has a right to spew their attacks and I have the right to expose them for who they really are. The rights of the minority and even the illegals have now come to outweigh the right the rights of citizens and the taxpayers who actually pay the bills./s/scott blevinsFarmer, businessman, taxpayer, voter and citizen (Pinal county Resident)

Editor, Today Publications: This letter to the Editor references two stories, “Smithson discusses District 2 Supervisor appointment,” “Maricopan Kevin Taylor sets sights on Sheriff’s Office,” and a letter to the editor. To read the stories in full visit

TodayPublications.com. First, a letter from Ms. Steelman defended Tisha Castillo’s switch to the Republican party to be a candidate for the selection of a Pinal County supervisor. That action, unfortunately, does smack of being “a foot soldier”

for the Democrats. Her justification and timing are very questionable. Secondly, the selection of Clark Smithson, nominated by the outgoing Bryan Martyn, keeps Martyn’s efforts alive. Mr. Martyn, although stating neutrality in the discussions

for the incorporation of San Tan Valley, was very apparent in his support for that incorporation. Many have strongly stated that we do not have to be incorporated at this time, as a community, even at this size, can function very well under County

jurisdiction. It’s completely unaffordable under present day circumstances. The reasons to incorporate are weak and not compelling enough to stress us anymore financially. Thirdly, Maricopian Kevin Taylor is running for Pinal County Sheriff? And

he is also on the Maricopa Chamber of Commerce! Is this another Arizona quirk that lets a person from one county be a candidate in another county? No thanks./s/Jerry Kovach, independentsan Tan Valley480.882.1841

Editor, Today Publications: Many people and some in the media simply attack; they work hard to tear other people down and for what purpose? I’m no longer a young man and in my life, I’ve learned that none of us are perfect and that you judge a person by their performance and results. While many attack our Sheriff personally and politically, I stand in support of Paul Babeu. I’m grateful as a resident for the

improved law enforcement by his deputies and for going after the drug and human smugglers in Pinal County. His attackers want us to forget about Paul’s 20 years in the military, where he served a combat tour in Iraq and commanded soldiers on the US/Mexican border in Yuma. Four years ago, our deputies didn’t even have computers in patrol cars, deputies were not trained and certified in first aid and CPR and

we didn’t have a DUI task force in Pinal County Now, months before an election we forget the achievements? I was a lifelong Democrat (now an Independent) and have even for Sheriff myself. I don’t care about all this private and personal business being used against Paul. I care about his performance in the job and the results. Period. I support Paul Babeu not out of blind loyally as a friend, but because

he’s a damn good Sheriff. I know Paul Babeu and I trust him. Nothing has changed with me. Paul is a great Sheriff and I’m proud to support him along with my family and friends. I encourage you as a friend and past supporter of mine referencing my past attempts being Sheriff, please support and vote Babeu this election./s/ charlie barber916 n. brown ave, casa Grande, aZ 85122520-560-0230

Editor, Today Publications:

The increased safety and security for Pinal County residents is a result of the hard work of the prosecutors in the Pinal County Attorney’s Office. We are proud of our partnership with the equally hard working law enforcement agencies in Pinal County.

These women and men and the staff who support their work deserve the gratitude of the people they serve not the innuendo and slurs slammed out by a

person who knows so little about the office he seeks. I welcome a discussion based on actual numbers that can be compared on an apples-to-apples basis.

My office increased felonies charged by 23 to 25 percent over the past four years even as crime was decreasing and law enforcement referrals were slowing down. My opponent’s overblown political statement with questionable statistics doesn’t recognize reality.

A fact sheet based on Arizona Department of

Who is Ruberto Revelis?

LetteRs to the editoRConcerning three articles in your June 21, 2012 edition

Crime trends downward in Pinal County, while prosecution numbers are upPublic Safety and FBI reports can be downloaded at Walsh4PCA.com/Crime_stats.pdf.

The real facts show that the increase in felony charging coincides with the lower crime rate.

Let the voters of Pinal County decide whether my leadership of the Pinal County Attorney’s office

merits their support for another term.Jim WalshPinal county attorney

Paul is a good sheriff

July 5, 2012 Today PublicaTions


What is the Sheriff’s Office Doing?

Weekly Cop Logs are now online at:www.TodayPublicaTions.com

Editor, Today Publications: In all my years as a public servant I have never seen public cynicism of elected leaders so feverish as it is today. And quite honestly, I can understand why people view politicians with a jaundiced eye. Take for instance what is happening in the District

2 supervisor’s race. One candidate – Cheryl Chase has been running for this position while she is still employed by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Ms. Chase has effectively thumbed her nose at Pinal County taxpayers and county policy in her quest for this office. Do you feel comfortable that

she is living off of your taxpayer money, while she is actively campaigning for office? This candidate, and county employee, could also be violating state law and the federal Hatch Act. She should have resigned her position back in January. Is this what you expect out of a person who wants to

Editor, Today Publications:Do campaign signs win

elections? That’s a good question, right? We are being deluged with all sizes, shapes and colors announcing candidates for federal, state, county and local positions. Does the one with the most signs win? That’s another good question.

On average, campaign signs cost $25 each for a small sign. Of course the large ones are much more. That’s after the design creation and set-up fees are paid. Then the decision of how many and where they should be placed has to be made.

They may be placed at

intersections, facing all four directions to maximize visibility. Then located at each on and off-ramp on nearby freeways and strategically spotted on major thoroughfares within a community, and then there are the yard signs. Money donated to candidates to operate their campaign is given with the hope that the person being supported will win and perform their duties with the utmost care and fiduciary responsibility possible. The other option is the donations are made in hopes that the candidate, if elected, can do something to return the favor once they are seated

in their new position. After all, the donor willingly gave their money to the candidate. Those funds should be used carefully and with great consideration. Are signs really a necessary expense? Sure, election campaigning offers a bump in revenue for sign makers, but after the election, the signs get discarded in landfill sites and more plastic accumulates for the environment. Perhaps some are recycled, but with the huge quantity we’ll see for months, it seems that more likely than not, they’ll be thrown in the trash to be carted off. There’s one candidate who believes that campaign

signs are good, but can be unproductive and perhaps annoying to the public. John Enright, candidate for Pinal County Supervisor, the new District 5, will most likely have some signs, but feels this way about them in general. He sees the issues to be too many cluttering the landscape, their presence for such a long period of time from pre-primary elections through post- final elections, the possibility of causing motorist distraction and safety issues, and questions the extravagance of spending donated funds. Enright considers this to be the first indication of how

the candidate will perform the duties of fiscal fiduciary to the public, if elected. Remember too, that each municipality has its own rules and regulations governing campaign signs. If the signs are located on county property, they dictate, size, type, wording (even who has paid for the signs), and the length of time allowed before and after elections. The cities of Mesa and Apache Junction have their own rules and regulations governing placement of signage in city areas. Is it really necessary to space one candidate’s signs in mile-long rows along arterial streets?

Do campaign signs bother you? Is it the long duration of having to look at them, the number of them, the distraction of them or just the overspending some candidates do with donated funds for them that bothers you? It is very difficult to determine if the one with the most signs wins. It doesn’t seem appropriate to do a study, using taxpayer funds to find out either. Signs create branding for a candidate, but it will still remain unclear whether quantity is the biggest factor. Perhaps fewer signs should be put up to see if anybody wins the election./s/Jill Moritz

do campaign signs win elections?

LetteRs to the editoR

Rios on Chase help decide county policy? Someone whose candidacy blatantly implies: what is okay for me to do – is not okay for you to do. How would we expect county employees to take Ms. Chase seriously while her

political campaign violates the very essence of our Pinal County “Resign to Run” policy? Like I said before, I understand the public cynicism, but remember there are other candidates

running for office—those that are not violating county policy by their candidacy.sincerely,/s/ Pete Rios, Vice- chairmanPinal county board of supervisors

Editor, Today Publications: I am the owner of Agape Pet Sitting Service here in the Queen Creek, San Tan Valley area. Would it be possible to remind folks how important it is to make sure our pets have clean fresh water this time of year? So many have pets that

are outdoors and there are many options available to pet owners to help make their pets as comfortable and hydrated as possible. With new folks moving to the area they may not be aware of how difficult it can be for a pet to acclimate to our weather conditions. Sadly, I still see animals

with no water nearby or no shade options. This time of year we can easily overlook it because we spend most of our time in air conditioned areas. Maybe we just need a bit of a reminder?Thanks so much,/s/ crissy Gilbert, owneragape Pet sitting serviceagapepetsit.com

Pay attention to your pet’s needs



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by chase KampToday Publications The Pinal County Board of Supervisors approved a fiscal year 2012-13 budget totaling just over $334.5 million at its regular meeting on Jun. 21, 2012. The approved budget includes a five percent decrease in the property tax mill rate, from $3.99 per $1,000 of assessed value down to $3.79. County Sheriff Paul Babeu tried to angle for more allotted overtime dollars. PCSO overtime funds were reduced from $1.7 million to around $1 million in the final budget. “We’re missing critical positions in our jail,” he said,

“Over the past four or five months, pods in the jail have had to be locked down. That’s not customary.” County manager Fritz Behring said the $1 million overtime figure was determined by the county budget office through statistical analysis of PCSO overtime usage trends in the last few months. PCSO drastically cut its overtime use after the department projected a $3.7 million budget overage earlier this year. A proposal by District 1 Supervisor Pete Rios to allot $80,000 for lobbying services in Washington on behalf of the County was passed on a 2-1 vote just before the budget was unanimously adopted.

supervisors adopt FY 2012-2013 budget

See Budget, Page 10

Rios said the representation would bolster the County’s visibility for economic interests.

As the lone nay vote,

Board Chairman David Snider said he believed “$80,000 doesn’t go a long way in Washington.” During earlier budget talks,

Rios proposed a provision to give County employees a one-time, one-percent pay raise, which did not receive a second motion from the

Board. County employees have not seen a pay raise or cost of living adjustment in four years, he argued.

by Zach RichterToday Publications After its April ground-breaking, construction on the first section of State Route

24 officially began near Ells-worth Rd. and Warner Rd. on June 18, 2012. Also known as the Gateway Freeway, SR 24 conceptually

The first portion of SR 24 is scheduled for completion in fall 2013.

sR 24 construction officially underway

begins at Loop 202 (Santan Freeway) near the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and heads east towards Pinal County as part of the Regional Transportation Plan approved by Maricopa County voters in 2004. Once in Pinal County, the route continues east and south-east and could join with either US 60 or SR 79 “Regional cooperation is the linchpin that allows proj-ects like State Route 24 to be completed and other future projects to become a reality,” Mayor Scott Smith said. “This new roadway construction will help maximize the poten-tial of Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, create jobs as the area develops, make vital connec-tions for efficient transporta-tion and future transit and cre-ate sustainable development.” In part, the first one-mile stretch will enhance access to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport by providing drivers with an improved connection to Ellsworth Road. It will also provide a start to a transporta-tion system that Pinal County Economic Development Man-ager Tim Kanavel believes is an important part of the coun-ty’s future. “Currently, those larger commercial and industrial

See SR 24, Page 10



T O W N O F

QUEEN CREEKA R I Z O N A

July 5, 2012

Visit: www.queencreek.org and follow us on Twitter and Facebook

Queen creek Town Hall 22350 S. Ellsworth Road, Queen Creek, AZ 85142

Phone: 480-358-3000 • Fax: 480-358-3189Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday - Sunday Closed

We live in a desert, and swimming pools are not exactly environmentally friendly. However, according to the University of Arizona about a third of homes in the Phoenix area have pools. Experts say pools raise home values and contribute to quality of life. The tips below can help the environment and your budget by reducing your water use and saving money on your utility bills.save on Water:

• To reduce evaporation use a pool cover and avoid using aerators, fountains and waterfalls whenever possible. These types of features lose a lot of water through evaporation. Building your pool in the shade or installing low-water plants around it as windbreakers also help reduce water loss.• Make sure you have no leaks. Monitor your water and utility bills for changes that might signal a possible

leak or other problem.• Watch the water chemistry carefully to reduce the times when you have to refi ll the pool.• Backwash pool fi lters only when necessary, and keep the pool and fi lters clean to reduce the frequency of backwashing. Backwash long enough for the water in the sight glass to run clean. • Use your backwash or de-chlorinated waste pool water on lawns and shrubs, but be careful not to allow runoff to

enter adjacent properties.• Drain your pool or spa only when absolutely necessary. If a pool has been properly maintained, it may not have to be drained completely or as frequently as you might assume. Spas should be drained more frequently than pools.Save on Electricity:• Replace your pump motor with a more effi cient two-speed or variable-speed motor. • Use a timer on the pool fi lter

swimming pool tips to help the environment and your budget

motor, and run it late in the day or early in the morning to avoid contributing to the

mid-day electrical peak. For more water savings tips visit QueenCreek.org.

Is it possible that your primary phone number has changed since you opened your water account with the Town of Queen Creek? The Water Division makes every effort to notify its customers prior to a planned and/or necessary water shut down. What if a pipe broke in your home and a neighbor saw water pouring out from under your door? (It’s happened before!) What if you accidentally forgot to pay your water bill? Without an updated phone number on fi le we would be unable to give you the notifi cation you need and deserve. Please take a moment today to give our customer service department a call at 480-358-3450 and update your information now. Help us help you!

don’t forget to update your account information

live, Play, learn A variety of special interest classes, community events, sports leagues, senior programs, and so much more are happen-ing here in your own backyard. For more information about any of these programs, please visit QueenCreek.org or con-tact the Recreation Division at 480-358-3700.Unless otherwise specifi ed, classes are held at the Library Recreation Annex, located at 21802 S. Ellsworth Road.youth & Teen center summer Program The Youth & Teen Center is a FREE drop-in program for ages 6-17. Registration is required. Summer hours are Monday-Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. through July 24. The Center, located at 22407 S. Ellsworth Road, will be closed on July 4 for Independence Day. Summer programs Include outdoor and outdoor games, basketball, arts and crafts, painting, coloring and Field Trip Fridays. Programs operate on a fi rst come, fi rst served basis. Back To School hours start July 25, and are Monday-Fri-day, 2:30-6 p.m. little athletes Fall 2012- ages 4–6 yrs This six-week program teaches the basics of soccer, t-ball and basketball. Registration begins on Aug. 6. • Sept. 5–Oct. 15, Mondays &

Wednesdays at 5 p.m. or 6 p.m. • $80 for residents and $120 for nonresidents. Fall 2012 adult co-Rec soft-ball league Eight teams will be accepted into the league. Individuals should contact the Recreation Division to be placed on a team. General registration be-gins Aug. 6. Games are played at Founder’s Park Aldecoa Ball Field.• Sept. 5–Nov. 7, Wednesday & Friday nights• $475 per team 2012 Pepsi Punt Pass and Kick The FREE local competition offers youth a chance to com-pete in a variety of categories. The event will be held on Sat-urday, Sept. 29 at Desert Moun-tain Park (22201 S. Hawes Rd.). For more information call 361-851-1612 or 361-826-3588.Exercise classes Exercise classes are a great way to stay healthy while hav-ing fun. Choose from more than a dozen classes per week including Dance Plus, Pi-lates, Yoga, Jazzercise, Circuit Sculpt, Fit Mommy, Zumba and more! yoga classes A variety of yoga classes are offered throughout the week for different ages, skill levels, and interests. Both morning and evening classes are available at a cost of $5 per class.

Recreation Services Queen Creek Fire department stresses importance of water safety Queen Creek fi refi ghters want to remind residents of the ABCs of water safety: adult supervision, barriers between children and water, and classes in CPR for adults and swim lessons for children. Drowning is a top cause of injury-related death for children in Arizona, especially in the one- to fi ve-year-old age group. Child drowning is

preventable, but sometimes, little can be done for a child once he or she has fallen into the water. Drowning can be avoided by following these important and life saving rules:• Maintain constant adult supervision at all times. • Install barriers surrounding the pool. Fences should be fi ve feet high and gates should be

self-closing and self-latching.• Keep items that can be used for climbing away from pool fences.• Never keep toys in or around a pool.• Have a phone nearby.

Post the 9-1-1 emergency telephone number and the physical address of the pool on the phone. For more information visit Queencreek.org or www.facebook.com/qcfi re.

Queen Creek Mayor Gail Barney has been elected to the Executive Committee of the Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), the regional planning agency for the Maricopa region. The Executive Committee serves as MAG’s fi nance committee and is responsible for a number of administrative responsibilities, such as amendments to the budget and contract selections. “Queen Creek plays a vital role in the Phoenix Metropolitan area,” said Mayor Barney. “MAG provides a link to all of the government organizations in the region and

Queen Creek’s Mayor Barney elected to MAG’s executive Committee

QC Mayor Gail Barneyprovides opportunities for us to work together.” For more on this story visit QueenCreek.org.

The Queen Creek Town Council has announced the appointment of Jason Gad to fi ll the Council seat left vacant by John Alston. Gad currently serves as the Chairman of the Town Center Committee and is a Planning &

Zoning Commissioner. He was a member of the Class of 2009 Citizen Leadership Institute and has also served on the Town’s Disaster Management Commit-tee. Please join us in welcoming him to the Town Council!

New councilman appointed



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by Zach Richter Today Publications On June 13, 2012, 20-year-old San Tan Valley resident Larissa Olewinski was making a left turn at the intersection of Combs Rd. and Gantzel Rd. in San Tan Valley when a large truck headed in the opposite direction struck her vehicle.

“I was driving a little Toyota Corolla, he was in a lifted Ford F-250,” Olewinski recalled in an interview with Today Publications, “My car was completely flattened.” Despite the fact that the accident totaled her vehicle and left her with 16 stitches in her right hand, Olewinski is convinced things would

have been much worse were it not for the efforts of an off-duty emergency medical technician (EMT) who happened by the scene shortly after the accident. “Out of nowhere this guy comes up and says let me help you,” Olewinski said. “He pulls a bag from his trunk and it’s full of medical supplies and I

saving the Music: off-duty eMt

Larissa Olewinski’s Toyota Corolla on the scene of her June 13, 2012 accident. Photo courtesy of Laura Olewinski

Larissa’s injuries haven’t prevented her from playing her flute. Photo courtesy of Steve Olewinski. Cover photo also courtesy of Steve Olewinski.



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is full-time Good samaritan

Olewinski’s vehicle at the tow lot, the vehicle was considered a total loss. Photo courtesy of Laura Olewinski

Olewinski’s hand a few days before the stitches were removed. Zach Richter/Today Publications

Olewinski’s hand shortly after her accident, the white portion is the tendon. Photo courtesy of Laura Olewinski

was like ‘What’s going on here?’ ‘Who carries this kind of stuff around with them?’ Then I saw the EMT stickers on his car.” The man, whom Olewinski later found out was named Kenneth Crabtree, determined that she was in shock and immediately went to work getting her off the street where he could safely tend to her injuries. “It’s a little blurry, but I remember I kept trying to walk around,” she said. “He told me to stay put.” Olewinski explained that while she doesn’t remember how exactly, at some point during the accident her right arm smashed through her windshield, leaving a massive gash on her right hand that caused her to bleed all over her vehicle, the street and Crabtree’s phone. “The cut was so deep we thought it was showing to the bone,” she recalled. “He gave me his phone to call 911 and I got blood all

over it. I apologized and he said that there were more important things to worry about.” Crabtree was right in his assessment of the situation as Olewinski is a flutist and x-rays later showed that the cut on her hand was deep enough that what she initially thought was bone was actually exposed tendon. “I look like I’ve been in a shark attack,” Olewinski said with a laugh. “He cleaned the cut and wrapped it with gauze which was huge because the tendons could have easily gotten infected,” Olewinski mused. “If it had been any worse I could have lost the full use of my hand.” “They said I came really close to losing my middle finger, Larisa continued. “I was on a lot of pain medication and I kept saying how cool it would look if I had a cyber finger.” While the thought of having bionic digits

appealed to Olewinski at the time, she is happy to say that she can once again make a fist and anticipates making a full recovery. As of press time she was soon heading back to the doctor to have her stitches removed and discuss her options for physical therapy and plastic surgery. As for Crabtree, while he didn’t leave a contact number, Olewinski explained that she was extremely grateful that he happened by. “I thanked him at the time but he just blew it off like it was nothing,” she said. “I’d like to say thanks again; it’s hard to put into words, I really appreciate his going out of his way for me, he was off duty, he could have just kept going, and some people would have, but he stayed with me the whole time.” Are you Kenneth Crabtree? If so we’d like to hear from you, email the author at [email protected]



by Zach RichterToday Publications

Banner Health recently an-nounced plans to create trau-ma centers with a range of ca-pabilities at its local hospitals and Banner Ironwood Medical Center in San Tan Valley is seeking a Level IV designa-tion. Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center will remain Banner Health’s only Level I hospital.

The Arizona Department of Health Services, Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma System recently established criteria and stan-dards for designating trauma centers as Level I, II, III or IV, based on a hospital’s resources and capabilities. Today Pub-lications spoke with Banner Ironwood’s Chief Nursing Officer Cathy Townsend and Emergency Department Direc-tor Suzanne Gotell about what the designation will mean for the hospital and its patients.

“Everything [required to achieve the designation] is already in place except for one piece of equipment and documentation for the State,” Townsend said. “Then the State has to come and do an

onsite inspection to ensure that we meet all the requirements.” Rather than a change that requires equipment up-grades or new staff members, Townsend explained that the designation is largely impor-tant because it will determine when patients need to be trans-ferred. “It offers peace of mind for the community,” she said. “It ensures that the care given to patients will be seamless.” “Our Trauma Director is Rob Porter, trauma medical training is already in place,” Townsend continued. “When we opened we made sure that we could serve the community at a higher level that makes this more of a public pro-nouncement.” She went on to note that trauma injuries designated as Level IV include blunt trauma fractures and non-bleeding head injuries and that under the new designation Florence Hospital at Anthem would be able to send their Level IV pa-tients to Banner. “EMS will differentiate [the trauma level] in the field as either Level I or below and the biggest issue is time,” Townsend said. “Level IV

does not require immediate surgery within the hour.” Gotell elaborated on the differences noting that Level I facilities require a signifi-cant commitment of resources. “With level one you need a larger capacity, more direc-tors, extra surgery space,” she said, “It requires a huge amount of resources and teams available 24/7. We don’t have the population to justify that commitment right now, but as the population grows it could be a possibility.” “We’re proud to be a Level IV designation and serve the population with excellent pa-tient care,” Gotel said. “Our transfer process is fantastic and we’re exactly what com-munity needs right now.” Townsend hopes the des-ignation process will be com-pleted by Nov. during which time patients requiring Level III or IV care will continue north to Mountain Vista Medi-cal Center in Mesa. “It’s an honor to be in the community,” Townsend said. “We love what we do here at Ironwood and we’ll continue serving the area at the highest level we can.”

Banner Ironwood Medical Center hopes to have a new trauma center designation by fall of 2012.

Banner ironwood seeks Level iV trauma center status

by chase KampToday Publications To accommodate passen-ger service over the next twenty years and beyond, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Air-port outlined four distinct phases of new terminal de-velopment at an estimated total cost of $1.4 billion dur-ing a session of the Airport Authority’s Board of Direc-tors meeting on June 18, 2012. Current passenger trends indicate the existing termi-nal facilities and infrastruc-ture on the Airport’s west side will be at full capac-ity as early as 2014. In re-sponse, the Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Northeast

Area Development Plan was initiated to accommodate regional growth and airport activity that could reach 20 million annual passengers. The first phase will in-clude a single-level terminal and concourse with 14 air-craft gates, surface parking for 4,375 vehicles, airfield improvements, partial con-struction of a circulation roadway, and related infra-structure improvements. Expected as early as 2017, the cost for the first phase is estimated at $344 million. “Airport staff recognizes that we are stewards of an incredible community asset and we’re working hard to make it the best it can be,”

said Airport Authority Ex-ecutive Director Lynn Kusy. “The Gateway 2030 project represents a significant step in achieving the Airport’s potential as it outlines the critical steps needed to meet forecast passenger demand.” Potential funding sources for Gateway 2030 include the Federal Aviation Ad-ministration, Arizona De-partment of Transportation, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority member government contributions, and Airport resources such as passenger facility charges and bonds. The plan also forecasts $385 million in private de-

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway announces expansion plans

Phoenix-Mesa Gateway has big plans for the future. Photo courtesy of the Phoenix-mesa Gateway Airport Master Plan Executive Summary.

See Airport, Page 10



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by sherry butler san Tan Valley Real EstateSpecial to Today Publications Many homeowners are still suffering from the “underwater syndrome” here in San Tan Valley and Queen Creek. Even though the market is increasing and improving very rapidly, it is still not fast enough for many homeowners that owe more than their home is worth. If you borrowed money from a lender to purchase your home and now your home is worth $100,000 less than your mortgage, you may ask your lender to cancel or forgive the debt, which is the difference in what you sold the home for, and what you owed due to your personal hardship. When this obligation to repay the full amount of the mortgage currently owed is forgiven, the amount you received as loan proceeds is normally reportable as income because you no longer have an obligation to repay the lender. The lender is usually required to report the amount of the cancelled debt to you and the IRS on a Form 1099-C, Cancellation of Debt. An example on the IRS website is this. You borrow $10,000 and default on the loan after paying back $2,000. If the lender is unable to collect the remaining debt from you, there is a cancellation of debt of $8,000. This generally is taxable income to you. In December of 2007, the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act was enacted that allows exclusion of income realized as a result of

Mortgage Forgiveness debt Relief Act to expire this year

The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act in Dec. it might be worth short-selling an underwater home to take advantage of it while it lasts.

modification of the terms of the mortgage, or foreclosure on your principal residence. The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act is scheduled to expire on Dec. 31, 2012 and there is no talk going on about it being extended. This “Act” has been perceived and understood to protect underwater homeowners in Arizona from owing federal income taxes following the sale of their qualifying home or investment property. The question is asked regarding Arizona’s anti-deficiency statutes, “Does the pending lapse of the Act mean that you should short sell your property before the year ends?” Attorneys tell me that the answer ultimately depends on whether your lender is actually forgiving any debt you are not repaying. This Act does not apply to all cancelled debts and does have a maximum depending

on whether you file married or separately. You can get more information on the IRS website regarding the limits. I recommend that you speak with an attorney, obtain professional tax advice with a CPA, and also speak with your financial advisor before entering into a short sale agreement or choosing to allow the bank to foreclose. The Arizona Department of Real Estate Short Sale Seller Advisory provided by AAR at www.aaronline.com to assist Sellers in exploring options other than a short sale and determining the advisability of entering into a short sale agreement. This site has tons of information that I’m sure you will find helpful. If you have any further questions, please call Sherry Butler with San Tan Valley Real Estate at 480-789-2209 or visit her at SanTanValleyRealEstate.com.

Central Arizona Animal Rescue moves to san tan Valleyby Zach RichterToday Publications Families looking for a certain something to teach their children responsibility as well as get them out of the house this summer are in luck, the Central Arizona Animal Rescue (CAAR) has plenty of dogs looking for homes right now in the San Tan Valley area. CAAR is a nonprofit, no-kill shelter that moved to San Tan Valley in Jan. 2012 that was started by Michael Wiederhold after a stray puppy wandered into his yard

several years ago. From that first puppy, Wiederhold’s reach has expanded to the point where he found homes for 200 dogs in 2011. “I hooked up with a rescue to get that dog a home then slowly started taking in dogs on my own and finding them homes,” Wiederhold recalled in an interview with Today Publications. “It escalated to the point where I was getting four or five at a time, so I started taking donations, once the people at the county shelters knew that I would take the dogs that were going

to be euthanized they started calling all the time.” According to Wiederhold, animal rescues are preferable to the pound for several reasons. “With a rescue you have someone who’s been with the dog and knows the dog’s personality,” he said. Wiederhold explained that he moved from Globe to San Tan Valley to make it easier for interested pet owners to meet his dogs. “The Globe area really needed a rescue but you have to go where the money is,” he said. “My

See Rescue, Page 11



Though his initial bid did not get off the ground, Rios said he planned to propose a new two-and-a-half percent pay increase to county employees making $75,000 or less. He estimated a cost of roughly $2.6 million to the general fund for the increase, which would provide raises

for 1,851 County employees. “At this stage in the game, that will be my last attempt to get a cost of living increase for County employees,” Rios said. At recent meetings, County Clerk of the Court Chad Roche and members of the PCSO Deputy’s Association have spoken in favor of some kind of substantial cost of living wage adjustment. The County Supervisors

retain the ability to introduce raise proposals even though the budget has been finalized. Though the County avoided a number of costs that were expected to be passed down from the state legislature, Snider said he still felt on guard in the current economic climate. “In my opinion, we are still facing a very tight time,” Snider said.

BudgetContinued from Page 4

business opportunities that usually provide primary jobs to a given area is somewhat stymied in San Tan Valley due to the lack of an adequate transportation system in this area,” Kanavel noted email in an email to Today Publica-tions. Kanavel went on to note that a lack of a major transpor-tation artery to the I-10 makes getting product into and out of the area more complicated than necessary. “The eventual completion of the SR 24 Cor-ridor, connecting the 202 east to US 60 and SR 79, will cer-

tainly help mitigate [the prob-lem],” he concluded. According to Heather Mur-phy, Director of Communi-cations and Public Affairs for Pinal County, long-range plans regarding SR 24 are forming but the county’s top federal transportation priority is currently Hunt Highway. “Pinal County has pro-ceeded with and completed a lot of the land acquisition and engineering for the project and it is definitely ‘shovel ready’ as soon as we get the funding to start the first construction phase,” she noted. “Pinal County works coop-eratively in planning its roads and connectivity with the cit-

ies, adjacent counties and the state (ADOT),” Murphy con-tinued. “SR 24 is one such project with long range plan-ning underway. While Hunt Highway is our top priority, it is also a priority to plan for SR 24 at least over to Ironwood, pursuit of funding would fol-low.” The first portion of SR 24 is scheduled for completion in fall 2013. The portion of SR 24 that is proposed to contin-ue east into Pinal County has been suspended until advance-ment of the North-South Cor-ridor regional study by ADOT. For more information on ADOT’s SR 24 plans visit AZ-DOT.gov.

sR 24Continued from Page 4

by chase KampToday Publications The San Tan Valley American Legion Patriots baseball squad was formed only a few months ago, but the team is having enormous success in its inaugural season.

At press time, the team had a 13-1 record on the season and was poised to reach the state playoffs to be held in Surprise. The 18-member squad is comprised of players from all three high schools in San Tan Valley. Coach Gordon McKee

Christian Ocana (#14) looks on with his San Tan Valley teammates.

stV American Legion baseball squad dominatespraised the positive attitude of his players and their outstanding performance on the field. “We didn’t know what to expect, but we’ve come in and built a strong program,” McKee said. The squad had their only loss of the season on June 28. “It was a tough game, but I think we needed that,” coach John Giove said. From Poston Butte is junior Wyatt Patterson who has 27 runs batted in. Patterson had a three home run night during the double-header on June 28. Poston Butte graduate John Giove Jr. has a 3-0 pitching record with a 4.00 ERA. He has a full-ride academic and athletic scholarship to the Mexico Military Institute. Shane Gereg plays shortstop and pitcher with a 3-0 record and a 0.87 ERA. He will be going to Yuma Junior College on a full-ride scholarship. Zach Hunt from Combs High is going to Central Arizona College and has recorded two saves as a pitcher on the team. Also from Combs is Julio Paredes, who is hitting .714 as a leadoff and has six stolen bases. Paredes has committed to Chandler-Gilbert Community

College. Among the players from San Tan Foothills High are Julian Navarette, who will be playing football at Scottsdale Community College. Navarette is a pitcher batting .429 with a home run on the season. Giove said the team and coaching staff was pulled together rather quickly, but that the squad began gelling immediately. “It’s crazy what these kids have done,” he said. “I’ve been in sports for 17 years and to have American Legion baseball here is

amazing,” Giove said. “They’re making noise and have a chance to make it to the Surprise tournament in July.” If the team is successful in Surprise, they will head to the Western Regional tournament in Fairfield, California. “We set our goals one step at time,” Giove said. “One is to win our division, and second is to win in Surprise and go to California.” American Legion Post 97 was founded in San Tan Valley three years ago with the expressed purpose of

promoting American Legion youth programs as well as the activities of other non-profits. The Pinal County Attorney’s Office recently donated $4,500 to American Legion Post 97 to bring Legion baseball to San Tan Valley. Post 97 Commander Alan Pease said all of the surrounding communities have municipalities to support youth programs, but STV does not. “This is one of the main reasons we made the Post,” he said, “To pick up the slack and give the kids more to do.”

velopment which is expect-ed to be spent on 2.5 million square feet of office/retail space and two hotels pro-ducing 600 rooms. The second phase ex-pands Phase One develop-ment, making the terminal facility capable of accom-modating up to 4.4 million passengers annually. De-tailed expansion includes: four additional gates, ex-tension of the circulation roadway, expanded surface parking to 10,500 vehicles, and a 1,000-feet extension of Runway 12L/30R. The estimated cost of this phase is $145 million.

AirportContinued from Page 8

Phase Three increases the terminal capacity to 10 mil-lion passengers annually and expands the terminal facili-ties to two levels and 30 total aircraft gates. Parking facili-ties include multilevel ga-rages and planning for light rail service. Completion tim-ing has not been determined. The estimated cost of this phase is $963 million. Phase Four completes the plan, enabling the Airport to accommodate up to 20 mil-lion passengers annually. Enhancements are expected to include a total of 60 air-craft gates, 21,000 vehicle parking spaces, and dual landside terminal arrival and departure curbs on two lev-els.

The Gateway 2030 plan was prepared by the Jacobs Engineering Group in col-laboration with Airport staff; Federal, State and local of-ficials; development indus-try experts; and major land owners near the Airport over a 20-month period that be-gan in October 2009. Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport is among the fastest growing hub airports in the United States, accommodat-ing 956,665 total passengers in 2011 and forecasting 1.3 million in 2012. To accom-modate the rapid rise in pas-senger service, the Airport’s current terminal facility has transitioned through four ex-pansion projects in as many years.



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At their June 20, 2012 meet-ing, the Queen Creek Town Council approved a curbside textile recycling pilot program with Chandler-based United Fibers. United Fibers and their sister company Phoenix Fibers turn recyclable materials into insulation and starting in Aug. that will include clothing, tow-els, sheets, blankets and shoes.

Ramona Simpson a Man-agement Assistant for the Town’s Public Works Depart-ment and administer of the Town’s trash and recycling programs spoke at the meeting and explained the terms of the pilot program.

“According to the EPA, 12

million tons of textiles are sent to the landfill annually,” Simpson said. “United Fibers and Phoenix Fibers have de-veloped an innovative way to take the textiles and divert them from the landfill and make them into an eco-friend-ly insulation.” Simpson explained that as the Town already partners with Right Away Disposal, which in turn partners with United Fibers, the process would be as simple separating the textiles from the other re-cyclables and weighing them. “Residents will receive a textile bag and they will place that bag right in their regular blue pin for regularly sched-uled pickup,” Simpson said.

“United Fibers will then sort the bags and weigh and pro-cess them. Phoenix Fibers will actually take the material and transform it into eco-friendly insulation. For its trouble, Simpson pointed out that the Town will receive 10 cents per pound of clothing collected, and an ad-ditional 10 cents will go to the Queen Creek Boys and Girls Club. “United Fibers has cho-sen the Boys and Girls Club of Queen Creek as the char-ity benefited by the pilot pro-gram,” she said. “We’re also partners with the Boys and Girls Club so we’re excited about that.” While a six-week test pro-gram was conducted in Sun

Lakes, Queen Creek will be the first municipality to try the program and according to Simpson, the community will receive plenty of instruction as to how to make the most out of it. “United Fibers will send out information packets to homes discussing the type of material and to bag it,” she said. Sim-spon went on to note that the Town would be doing its own promotion of the program in its Aug. water bill and through its social media outlets.” Prior to vote Councilmem-ber Barnes took the time to enthusiastically voice his sup-port for the program. “The Mayor and I had the oppor-tunity to go and tour United

textile recycling coming to QC this August

Phoenix Fibers will take Queen Creek’s unwanted textiles and turn them into eco-friendly insulation. Photo courtesy of the Town of Queen Creek

Fibers and they spoke to us about this and from what I saw, I was very impressed,” he recalled. “I know that I have a lot of stuff to give you right now, I’ve been saving it since

the tour.” The curbside textile recy-cling pilot program is sched-uled to begin in Aug. For more information, visit UnitedFi-bers.com.

compromise is that San Tan Valley still has that rural flavor, including plenty of acreage and neighbors who understand that sometimes dogs bark, but it is close enough to the rest of the valley to draw folks from all over.” Wiederhold takes in animals from all over the state and prior to the interview, he had recently rescued dogs from distant locales including Yuma and North Phoenix. “I do whatever I can to help,” Wiederhold said, “But I prefer to work with counties not as saturated with animal rescues.” Currently Wiederhold and

Volunteer Patricia Brown and one of the Rescue’s puppies “Survivor” the only puppy in its litter to survive the Parvovirus. Zach Richter/Today Publications

RescueContinued from Page 9

Currently Wiederhold and volunteer Patricia Brown are the animal rescue’s only full time volunteers with approximately five others volunteering generally once a week. “I’ve got one full-time volunteer and [Patricia] busts her butt seven days a week, but it’s tough, we always need more help spread out throughout the week,” Wiederhold said. “June and July are horrible months for adoption,” he continued. “There’s a flood of puppies from spring, all the donations dry up and adoptions are way down. I have about 30 dogs right now, you can imagine how long a bag of food lasts.” Over time, CAAR has become known for placing

German and Belgian Shepherds; something Wiederhold attributes to his time spent training search and rescue classes prior to starting the shelter. “I’ve placed at least half a dozen dogs in drug training programs,” Wiederhold said. “Several of my dogs are working down in Eloy, the Florence PD, their drug dog came through my rescue.” “It’s so hard to find working caliber dogs,” he continued, “There might be two percent out there destined to be working dogs. It’s not hard for me to put working dogs into a home; working dog needs to be busy.” While he never intended to be a niche shelter, Wiederhold was quick to point out that

CAAR is one of a small number of animal rescues that has the facilities and the knowledge to retrain German Shepherds. “I ended up with German Shepherds because that breed does not do well in a pound environment,” he explained. “What I’ll do is take the dog and get them mentally ready to be in a family. Despite CAAR’s reputation Wiederhold was adamant that as long as there’s room, they will take all comers. “We’ll take any dog that we think we can help,” he enthused. For adoption information, to donate or to volunteer, visit CAAROnline.org or email Wiederhold directly at [email protected].

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