Big Red Cardinal

When the Arizona Cardinals, United Dairy Council of Arizona and Athlos Traditional Academy all join forces to help kids – great things happen.

Students at Athlos Traditional Academy welcomed Cardinal’s Mascot Big Red and the Dairy Council of Arizona to their first pep rally in honor of a recent $6,000 grant awarded by the partnership.  Both identities join forces to promote health and wellness as well as encourage healthy lifestyles among children with a program named, ‘Fuel Up to Play 60.’

Students at the new K-7 charter school cheered for Big Red and competed in several exciting games during the assembly.  The Dairy Council of Arizona provided prizes, over 20 cheerleaders performed; boys and girls basketball teams were introduced and given new uniforms.

“This school is outstanding; it is promoting several areas that we feel are key to children. It’s wonderful that kids are getting excited about healthy eating and being active.”  - Terri Verason Director of Nutrition Education – Dairy Council of Arizona

During the assembly Mrs. McGraff led a contest that reviewed the current character trait – Responsibility. They following reminders were emphasized:

• When you agree to do something – do it.
• Answer for your own actions.
• Take care of your own matters.
• Always use your head.
• Don’t put things off.

Athlos Traditional Academy, a free public charter school, offers a proven, well rounded model that parents can trust and is part of the Legacy Traditional School District, an A ranked district by the Arizona Department of Education.

This model includes the following:

• A Proven Academic Model – Legacy students score 25 points higher on average than their peers across the state on AIMS scores
• Accelerated Pace of Study  – Students are performing a year ahead
• Back-to-Basic Curriculum – Focusing on Mastery in Reading, Writing, and Math
• Complete Curriculum including Social Studies, Science, P.E., Music, Computers and Art for all grade levels
• Highly Trained Teachers Who Care About Each Child
• High Expectations for Both Academic Achievement and Behavior
• A Focus on Patriotism and Character Building
• State-of-the-Art Facilities
• After School Athletic Programs and Clubs
• A Safe, Structured, and Enjoyable Environment for Exceptional Learning
• Well Rounded Educational Opportunity

Popularity: 54% [?]

SanTan Brewing Company, awarded Best Brewery for 2011 by Phoenix New Times, invites everyone for an exciting evening of fun, dining and enjoying the best brews this New Year’s Eve.

The exquisite and sumptuous New Year’s Eve menu will feature a 12 oz smoked prime rib with green chili au jus, aged white cheddar mashed potatoes and green beans sautéed with almonds. For a little southwest zest from the sea, discriminating diners can try the Maine lobster tacos served on corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, chipotle cream and pico de gallo. Spicy black beans and Spanish rice on the side will complete this three taco dish for a rare gastronomical experience.

Other New Year’s Eve highlights include drink specials, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight and party favors. There will absolutely be no cover charge during this end-of-the-year extravaganza.

Drop by SanTan and try the 12 Daze Caramel Spiced Amber and enjoy a pint or two before the holiday season is over. The 12 Daze Caramel Spiced Amber is SanTan Brewing Company’s Winter Seasonal that blends 12 different ingredients to make a pleasantly accented Holiday Amber Ale.  For an extra depth of flavor, try 10 lbs of Liberty Market’s Chai tea blend, consisting of fresh ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, black pepper and nutmeg are added. The result is a strong American Amber Ale, using generous amounts of Caramel, Munich, Special Roast and Victory malts to achieve a firm malt base for the Chai blend.

This special holiday brew represents the first collaboration between a craft brewery and a craft eatery combining SanTan’s American Strong Amber and Liberty Market’s Chai tea to create a flavorful explosion of holiday cheer.

SanTan Brewing Company (2007) has made a name for itself as Arizona’s favorite craft beer destination, operating with a commitment to advance the culture of craft beer. In addition to great beer, SanTan has gained a loyal following of craft beer enthusiasts in the Arizona area by offering delicious food, happy hour specials, live music and participating in beer festivals.

Dinner reservations for this New Year’s Eve bash can be made by personally visiting the SanTan Brewing offices or call 480-917-8700. You can also reach us online at www.santanbrewing.com. Reservations will only be accepted for dining before 7 p.m. From then on, it will be on a first come, first served basis.

Visit SanTan Brewing Company at 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, AZ. We are open from Sundays until Thursdays, 11 a.m. to midnight and Fridays until Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Popularity: 41% [?]

American Standard Energy Corporation has come up with a letter of intent to acquire New Mexico oil and gas operator Cross Border Resources.

This provides that American Standard Energy has the right to enter into such a transaction with Cross Border Resources between Nov. 22, 2011 and Jan. 31, 2012.

American Standard Energy is an exploration and production company based in Scottsdale, Ariz., with operated and non-operated properties in the Permian Basin of West Texas, and non-operated leasehold interests in the Bakken/Three Forks shale region in North Dakota and the Eagle Ford shale region of South Texas.

Meanwhile, Cross Border Resources is an oil and gas exploration and production company headquartered in San Antonio, Texas with leasehold interests and non-operated producing properties primarily in the Permian Basin of southeastern New Mexico and West Texas.

In connection with the proposed business combination, American Standard Energy Corp. and Cross Border Resources, Inc., will be filing a joint prospectus/proxy statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

American Standard Energy Corp. and its officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from stockholders of American Standard Energy with respect to the approval of the proposed transactions contemplated by the foregoing. Cross Border Resources and its officers and directors may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from stockholders of Cross Border Resources with respect to the approval of the proposed transactions contemplated by the foregoing.

Popularity: 17% [?]

Irish Republic, home to dollar bill plastered walls, 55 varieties of ice cold beer and the best fish and chips in town, Irish Republic Public House welcomes riders every Wednesday for Bike Night starting November 23, 2011.

Arizona residents have paid their summer dues with nothing but cool days and breezy nights.

This is the perfect time of year to hop on the back of your hog and cruise around downtown. Starting Nov. 23, make Irish Republic your destination from 6-9 pm with an abundant selection of food and drink specials.

After more than 10 years of experience in law enforcement, Irish Republic owner, Roger Baldwin is passionate about showing his appreciation and respect for the men and women of service.  So, in addition to his charitable donations, Bike Night is the next step in Baldwin’s efforts. Members of the police, fire and military are welcome at Irish Republic anytime, but on Bike Night,  it’s all about showing appreciation, sharing stories and enjoying a cold beer.

Irish Republic Public House (formerly Murphy’s Law) is a friendly neighborhood people’s bar offering 35 beers on draft and 20 brands of bottled beer. The menu features local favorite dishes like fish and chips, meatball bangers, delicious hamburgers and fully loaded nachos. The service staff adorn black kilts with logo tanks and high black socks for a dramatic, bold and sexy look.

Irish Republic is located at 58 South San Marcos Place, Chandler, AZ 85225. Irish Republic currently has franchise opportunities available, for more information email info@irishrepublicaz.comand follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/irishrepublicpublichouse.

Popularity: 15% [?]

The 4th Annual Downtown Chandler Oktoberfest invaded Dr. AJ Chandler Park on Saturday, September 24, 2011 with Bavarian style food, games, live entertainment and tons of beer.

The festivities kicked off at 2 p.m. when patrons looking to get an early start on the celebration enjoyed beer pong, bag toss, tricycle races and short lines at the vendor, beer and food booths.

Once the sun set and the temperature began to drop, attendees flocked to the Downtown Chandler area just in time to catch platinum-selling rock band Lit who took the stage at 8 p.m.

By the end of the night, thousands of patrons celebrated Oktoberfest with craft beer in one hand and a bratwurst in the other.

Now in its fourth year, the Downtown Chandler Oktoberfest has truly become a socially embedded event with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Downtown Chandler Community Foundation.

Due to the success of this year’s event, SanTan Brewing Company was able to raise $5,000 to benefit the DCCF. The funds raised at Oktoberfest will be used towards city beautification efforts and to build a permanent stage for live performances in Dr. AJ Chandler Park. The park improvements and stage will be used to host community concerts, high school productions and other outdoor performing arts programs.

SanTan Brewing Company, Phoenix New Times 2011 Best Brewery winner, strives to increase community togetherness by inviting residents to attend and participate in special events and festivals. SanTan Brewing Company has been a true leader in the Downtown Chandler area organizing successful events, benefiting local charities and building the community togetherness by serving as a superior example of a collaborative leader.

For more information about the 4th annual Downtown Chandler Oktoberfest visit www.santanoktoberfest.com and follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/santanoktoberfest.

Open since 2007, SanTan Brewing Company has made a name for itself as Arizona’s favorite craft beer destination, operating with a commitment to advance the culture of craft beer. SanTan Brewing Company accomplishes this goal through beer production using the highest quality ingredients and methods. In addition to great beer, SanTan has gained a loyal following of craft beer enthusiasts in the Arizona area by offering delicious food, happy hour specials, live music and participating in beer festivals.

Visit SanTan Brewing Company at 8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler, AZ. They’re open Sunday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-midnight and Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m. – 2 a.m. Also, check out SanTan Brewing Company online and become a fan on Facebook or follow on Twitter for more information on upcoming specials and promotions.

Popularity: 25% [?]

Living a healthy lifestyle starts with hydration, but where the water comes from is the billion dollar question in the US, literally. Twenty years ago, tap water was the only logical answer. But today, there are many other options on the market—most of which generate an alarming environmental impact. Navigating through the options can be confusing. So, to help ease the burden a new Water U education center is opening in Chandler this October. Water U will offer water education, demonstrations, seminars and tips for greener living.

Water is a necessity for survival and with the increasing desire for convenience and accessibility, bottled water has become one of the most favorable sources for busy consumers willing to turn a blind eye to the waste and cost factor. That demand has made the bottled water industry grow exponentially over the last decade. The amount of bottled water consumed in the US more than doubled from 1997-2007 ranging from 13.4-29.3 gallons per person[i]. Today, Americans spend more than $11 billion a year on bottled water with over 31 billion bottles sold each year. As bottled water production continues to grow so does an increasing concern for the environmental impact of production and waste. Considering only about 10% of plastic water bottles are recycled in the US and the other 90% ending up in landfills[ii], waste is a valid area for concern.

Regardless of the consequences, millions of people trust that bottled water is safer to consume than regular tap water. Often, that is not the case. More than 44% of all purified bottled water in the US market today comes directly from municipal ground water sources.[iii] Additionally, the policies used to regulate bottled water production by the Food and Drug Administration lack many of the same restrictions and close monitoring that the Environmental Protection Agency uses to monitor municipal ground water.

So, the debate continues across the US with advocates on both sides of the bottled water issue. Fortunately, this argument becomes a null point when taking into consideration that there is a safer, greener and more cost effective solution on the market. Water filtration systems are one alternative but there’s an even better option on the market—water ionization systems. A fairly new product in the US, water ionization technology has been around for more than 60 years offering the ability to control alkaline Ph levels and acidic levels in tap water. This technology eliminates the environmental impact of bottled water while ensuring water quality. Water ionization systems are an eco-friendly solution to the clean water debate by eliminating plastic waste and harsh chemical pollution.

Education is the key to understanding the impact of water sourcing as well as how water quality affects families, communities and the ecosystem. In an effort to provide additional resources to Arizona families, an educational center known as Water U is scheduled to open in Chandler this October. Water U was created to serve as a community hub for water education in the east valley offering water demonstrations, seminars and tips for greener living. Water U will be located at 2390 North Alma School Road #114, Chandler, AZ 85224. For more information about Water U visit www.water-u.com or call 480-359-6H2O (6426).

[i] U.S. Government Accountability Office. (2009, June). Bottled Water: FDA Safety and Consumer Protections are Often Less Stringent than Comparable EPA Protections for Tap Water. Retrieved August 2011 from http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d09610.pdf

[ii] New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Too Many Bottles—It’s A Waste. Retrieved August, 2011 from http://www.dec.ny.gov/docs/materials_minerals_pdf/waterbottles.pdf

[iii] Vestel, L. (2009, July 17). Bottled Water Makers in the Hot Seat. Retrieved August 2011 from http://green.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/17/bottled-water-makers-in-the-hot-seat?

Popularity: 42% [?]

New Cell Sites Activated as Part of Ongoing AT&T Investment in Local Wireless Network

AT&T announced the activation of new mobile broadband cell sites in Chandler to enhance coverage for area residents and businesses. The aim is to support the growing local demand for advanced mobile devices and applications. File downloads, websurfing and interactive mobile applications will all be faster.

From 2008 to 2010, AT&T invested nearly $175 million in its Phoenix area wireless and wireline networks. AT&T says it has the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, with accelerated mobile data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities.

“Our goal is for our customers to have an extraordinary experience. As part of the Tempe and Chandler communities, we’re always looking for new opportunities to provide enhanced coverage, and our investment in the local wireless network is just one way we’re accomplishing that. In addition, our recently announced agreement to acquire T-Mobile USA will strengthen and expand our network in Tempe and Chandler. If approved, this deal means that we’ll be able to expand the next generation of mobile broadband – 4G LTE – from our current plan of 80 percent of the U.S. population to more than 97 percent.”

- Jennifer Biry, Arizona vice president and general manager, AT&T

The new cell site in Chandler is enhancing coverage in the area around the intersection of Alma School Road and Loop 202 (Santan Freeway).

AT&T’s mobile broadband network is based on the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) family of technologies that includes GSM and UMTS, the most widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T has the broadest international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider, providing access to voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in more than 200 countries. AT&T also offers voice and data roaming coverage on more than 135 major cruise ships, as well as mobile broadband services in more than 130 countries.

AT&T Expands in Chandler

AT&T’s 27,000 hotspots in the U.S. makes it the largest US Wi-Fi network. Customers also get access to around 190,000 global hotspots, through their international partners. The best part is that most smartphone customers have access to the national Wi-Fi network, included in their monthly agreement, and Wi-Fi usage doesn’t count against their wireless data plan.

Popularity: 29% [?]

Veterinarians at the Phoenix Zoo welcomed the help of the Associate Chief of Cardiovascular Surgery at St. Joseph’s Heart & Lung Institute, Dr. Brian deGuzman, to perform a delicate surgery on the oldest mandrill in the United States.

Wucaria, a 34-year-old female mandrill, a species of monkey, had a large abscess on her kidney. Phoenix Zoo veterinarians Dr. Gary West and Dr. Julie Swenson, discussed all options available to Wucaria. They also enlisted the aid of the Animal Health Advisory Committee, a team of specialists, consisting of mostly veterinarians, but also including “human” specialists, who volunteer their time and services, offering specialized medical care in areas like dentistry, cardiology, and surgery.

Wucaria’s case was discussed and it was determined that Dr. deGuzman, a Harvard-trained surgeon, would assist with the removal of Wucaria’s right kidney. Veterinarian Dr. West says, “Dr. deGuzman is able to bring his specialized skills to the operating table, offering us opportunities to provide exceptional care to our Zoo’s animals.”

PRNewsFoto/St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center; Phoenix Zoo, Ryan Dimal

With more than a half dozen people on the team including the Phoenix Zoo’s three veterinarians, a veterinary anesthesiologist, a veterinary surgeon, Dr. deGuzman and St. Joseph’s nurse, Jenifer Traylor, the kidney was successfully removed on June 2.

Wucaria is now comfortable and back on exhibit with her troupe. “A procedure like this requires an incredible amount of teamwork,” says Dr. deGuzman. “The Phoenix Zoo veterinarians are an extraordinary team and have been really accepting of the advice that I can provide on the animal cases. Each person on the team brings something different and unique to the table to help out these animals.”

Dr. deGuzman began volunteering at the Zoo three years ago as a member of the Animal Health Advisory Committee. “Volunteering at the Zoo is so gratifying as a physician,” says Dr. deGuzman. “The animals are innocent, they rely on us to help with their illnesses and provide them with the best care possible. We treat them in a compassionate and calming manner, and our goal is to always help them continue to live life to the fullest.”

“Dr. deGuzman brings the highest level of medicine from the human side which we can try to strive for,” says Dr. Swenson. “The specialists we are able to work with on the Advisory Committee bring very specific skills to some of our difficult cases.”

About the Phoenix Zoo

The Phoenix Zoo is a non-profit zoological park that serves 1.5 million guests annually. Home to more than 1,300 animals and many endangered and threatened species, the Zoo is dedicated to providing experiences that inspire people and motivate them to care for the natural world. For more information about the Zoo and upcoming events visit phoenixzoo.org.

About St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center

Located in the heart of Phoenix, St. Joseph’s is a 607-bed, not-for-profit hospital that provides a wide range of health, social and support services, with special advocacy for the poor and underserved. St. Joseph’s includes the internationally renowned Barrow Neurological Institute, the Heart & Lung Institute and a Level I Trauma Center and the Muhammad Ali Parkinsons Center.

Popularity: 28% [?]

FROM KARAOKE SINGER TO STAY-AT-HOME MOM TO TALENT CONTESTANT

Melissa Gernant is a stay-at-home mom of two boys, and has always dreamed of having a career as a singer.  “I have been singing since I was a little girl, including church choirs, school choirs and various bands.  I frequently go out to restaurants and karaoke bars to showcase my talents.”   Melissa’s voice is pleasing to an audience –  distinctly crisp, clean and pretty.

Melissa met her husband after he was impressed enough with her voice having heard her sing at a karaoke bar, that he came up to her and asked her for a date.

Later, she would also use her voice to help her gravely ill son.  “When my son was in a coma two years ago, the doctors would tell me to sing to him because he could still hear me. He was only 14 months old then, and is alive and well today.  Now, every night, I sing the songs to him that I did when he was in the hospital and I get to tell him how I sang to him to keep him alive.”

“Almost every wish I have ever made whether it be on a shooting star or a birthday wish was to one day impress the right person with my voice.”

“Music is so much a part of who I am, and I thank God every day for the gift He gave me in my voice.”

Melissa looks forward to participating in the upcoming World Championships of Performing Arts taking place July 17-22, 2011, in Los Angeles, California, where she will compete in the categories of vocals and acting, challenging the best of the best  contestants from around the world for the crown of World Champion.

Popularity: 35% [?]

One year after a prison escape, security enhancements at Arizona State Prison-Kingman Facility are complete.

Management & Training Corporation, (MTC) is a national operator of Federal Job Corps Centers and one of the leading operators of private correctional facilities, with 20 correctional facilities across the USA. MTC also operates or is a partner in 23 Job Corps centers across the United States.

The company says its key to success is helping people realize their learning potential and providing life-changing opportunities through academic, vocational and social skills training.

“Since the incident in July 2010, MTC has worked very closely with the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) in identifying and correcting any security risks. We have conducted multiple internal audits as well as responded to all ADC policies. We believe we have taken several measures that go above and beyond prison standards to ensure this never happens again.”
- MTC President Scott Marquardt

Prior to receiving medium security inmates in the medium security (Hualapai) unit, the facility was audited and was accredited by the American Correctional Association (ACA). Following the incident, MTC ordered a comprehensive assessment of all security policies and procedures.

MTC then implemented the following security enhancements:

AUGUST 2010

New leadership: complex administrator, warden and security chief

Alarm system was thoroughly inspected

Inmate movement was restricted

The number of officers patrolling the perimeter increased

Perimeter vehicles equipped with hand held high-intensity lights

Foot patrols around the perimeter were increased

Traffic was routed away from perimeter road

Random Inmate pat searches increased

Controlled movement and staggered recreation instituted

SEPTEMBER 2010

Aggressive perimeter intrusion procedure training implemented

Inner and outer fence checks increased to twice each shift

Staff certified in maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of alarm system

Alarm response procedure training increased

Emergency response plan reviewed and revised

Staff retraining on management of medium security inmates conducted

Static perimeter post installed

Static observation post installed on southeast corner

Traffic control “face to ID check” procedures implemented

Road barriers installed on internal road leading to the Cerbat unit

Installed blocking gates on existing shared use road

Pedestrian gate in perimeter fence removed

Door control computers reprogrammed for audible door alarm

October 2010

New half-mile road constructed to keep all unofficial vehicles farther from prison complex

February 2011

A one-mile long second perimeter fence was installed around the Hualapai medium security facility. The fence is 10-feet high with four strands of razor wire, exceeding Arizona Department of Corrections standards

Popularity: 32% [?]