Presented by Chandler Regional’s HEAT Wave committee, healthy living classes are geared towards patients with congestive heart failure, patients who are recovering from a heart attack, or anyone who would like to adopt a healthy living lifestyle.

Olive is an exceptionally polite and sweet 2-year-old Pit-Bull mix who gets along with everyone. She is great with other dogs, has the patience and love for children and the energy for long walks and hikes, however, cats are not her favorite thing in the world. Olive is the epitome of a lap dog and is always trying to be right beside you and in the middle of all the action. She is also exceptionally smart, already knowing sit and fetch and having a basic understanding of potty training. Olive is spayed, microchipped and up to date on all vaccinations.

Members of the South Mountain Citizen’s Advisory Team (SMCAT) have until July 24 to submit the official recommendation from its group on the proposed South Mountain Loop 202 Freeway to the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT).

Not waiting for formal gubernatorial approval, foes of her Medicaid expansion already are moving to undo at the ballot box and in court what they could not block at the Legislature.

Pogo is a male “Beagle blend,” about 6 years old. He’s a sweet and loving little guy. Friends for Life rescued Pogo from the Yuma Humane Society where he was turned in several times as a stray. The last time he was turned in, however, his family never came to claim him. His outlook for finding a home was not good. Pogo was adopted from Friends for Life a few months ago, however, the family determined they didn’t have enough time for a dog. He’s hoping this time around for a family that will be dedicated to keeping him safe, sound, and loved. Pogo enjoys a good cuddle, going for walks when it’s cool, and just look at that face!

Tired of waiting for action, Gov. Jan Brewer forced lawmakers back to the Capitol late Tuesday to approve her budget and Medicaid expansion.

After being stuck in a storm drain for a week, Ellie was sick and scared, but with love and good care she’s gotten her “sparkle” back. Ellie is very curious and just has to see what’s hiding in an open drawer, cabinet or a box because if it’s hidden, it must be something special. Although not a big talker, she does chatter at the birds and will let you know its snack time or if I need your help with a toy that got stuck. Affectionate but not needy, Ellie is happy to just be in the room with you, although I she loves to snuggle at bedtime.

Abortion foes are making a late-session push to allow health inspectors to inspect clinics without a warrant.

As Christy Everson was nearing age 40, she made a decision: She wanted to have a child, even though she was single and it meant doing it all alone. Her daughter, conceived via a sperm donor, is now 2 1/2 years old, and Everson hopes to have a second child.


Ziggy is one of the most polite and happy boys you will ever meet. Unfortunately, he has not had the best start to life, it appears that this precious little boy has been injured (probably hit by a car) and was never given the proper care. Ziggy has only one eye that he can see out of and his little legs are out of whack, but fortunately he is in no pain. Just kinda walks funny. But you would never know it by the way Ziggy moves and shakes. He runs with the rest of the pack in his foster home and has no problem making his way around the house and backyard. His true joy in life is snuggling with his human or other canines in his foster family. He is always wagging his little stub of a tail and has a smile that is contagious and never leaves his face. Ziggy has been the prefect house guest in his foster home and has quickly become a favorite to all that meet him. He is so calm and easy going that he will fit into any home that promises to give him the love and affection that he so deserves. His perfect home would be one with someone around most of the time and another canine friend or two. Your days will be filled with joy and smiles with Ziggy by your side.


Conceding he lacks the votes, House Speaker Andy Tobin gave up Tuesday in his bid to block the Medicaid expansion plan by Gov. Jan Brewer with his own alternative.

Apache and Cheyenne are believed to be a father and son bonded pair who were found near Ahwatukee on the Gila River Indian Reservation. They were found wandering around, scrounging for food, and being fed by construction workers there at times. These Pomeranians are possibly mixed with Sheltie. They are larger boys, closer to 20 pounds each. They are silly, sweet, and love people. These very friendly boys like to jump and play and run around and act silly. They love toys, puzzle balls and chew bones. Since they were used to running free on the reservation, a home with a big yard would be preferable. They get along well with other high-energy dogs.

Powel is looking for a family willing to put in the time, patience, love, and training it takes to have a puppy. He has puppy-like behaviors (chewing, potty training, and training), but he’s worth all the time and training it will take to watch him grow. He is a Chihuahua mix, 9 months 26 days.

Two former Republican state senators are maneuvering to give voters the last word on whether Arizona expands its Medicaid program.

Florange was abandoned by his owner and left to find food and water in a local neighborhood. He is an extremely sweet 1-year-old long haired orange tabby with beautiful gold eyes. He is playful and enjoys watching the world from a great perch such as a tall cat tree or windowsill. He could use more exercise as he has gained a bit of weight but with the right diet and playtime should slim down.

Cactus Cats rescue has kittens galore! Come see our great selection of kittens and cats this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and also now seven days a week in store at Petco, 5011 E. Ray Road. All kitties are fixed, tested, and have shots. Add a little furry love to your life. When you adopt we can save more!

The 2013 legislative session began with a unanimous vote in the House and the Senate to appropriate emergency funding for additional Child Protective Services staff. With that vote, lawmakers affirmed child safety as a top priority.

Calling the governor's proposal unacceptable and politically dead at the Legislature, House Speaker Andy Tobin unveiled his own new plan Tuesday to expand Medicaid, one that would give Arizona voters the final say.

A new statewide survey suggests that if Arizonans were asked about it today, it's more likely that gay couples would be able to marry here.

The Arizona Educational Foundation (AEF) announced that 28 Arizona public schools earned the A+ School of Excellence award for the 2012-2013 academic year including one in Ahwatukee Foothills, Kyrene de los Cerritos Elementary School in the Kyrene Elementary District. Darcy DiCosmo is principal.

Mady is an extremely beautiful and sweet, 1-year-old petite Dilute Tortoiseshell cat. She came to Lost Our Home Pet Foundation with six newborn kittens who all found homes.

Three years ago, in the wake of a new Arizona law aimed at those in the country illegally, tens of thousands converged on the Capitol with a message: Today we march, tomorrow we vote.

The persistence and determination I have shown in the past four years is about reform and getting us ready for the new world we live in. There is a bigger reason why I have been pushing so hard for change. It’s about getting Phoenix ready to compete in a global economy. If the council repeals the food tax it will be added to a long list of reforms we accomplished. There were three significant reforms toward the goal of getting us ready to compete in this new world market and getting government to operate more like your household