The 2012 Annual Conference and Tradeshow planning is moving along, but the conference committee needs your help to develop the best programming possible for AACo members.

Each affiliate group is encouraged to share their opinions on which topics should be covered, and what types of exhibitors should be invited.

All AACo members can send their suggestions via email to Jeff Curwen.

Rep. Daniel Patterson this week pleaded not guilty to four domestic violence charges filed by Tucson prosecutors.  Patterson's attorney has stated that the representative intends to assert legislative immunity; however, there is some question as to the likelihood of success with that tactic.  The state constitution only prevents lawmakers from being arrested or subjected to civil proceedings during session; it does not make them immune from criminal charges.

Democratic leaders have asked for Patterson's resignation, but he has vowed to fight the accusations.  Georgette Escobar, Patterson's accuser, is currently being held in the La Paz County jail for charges related to possession of methamphetamines.

While one member of the 50th Legislature clings to his office amid criminal charges, another recently resigned and has reportedly entered into a plea deal with federal prosecutors.  Richard Miranda was scheduled to turn himself in today for embezzlement from the defunct non-profit Centro Adelante Campesino, of which he was formerly the executive director. 

Sources have said that the plea deal includes Miranda being sentenced to 18 months in prison and $300,000 in restitution.

This legislature has seen an inordinate number of changes to the member rolls of both the House and Senate.  And this week another member was appointed to the House. 

Martin Quezada was selected by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to fill the Legislative District 13 seat suddenly vacated by Richard Miranda last month.

Rep. Quezada was born and raised in Maryvale and currently serves on the Pendergast Elementary School Board of Governors.  Quezada also plans to run for the House in the newly created Legislative District 29.  The 34-year old has previously worked as a researcher at the legislature, and is on the Maryvale Village Planning Committee, the West Phoeix Revitalization Community Advisory Board, and the board of Los Diablos, a chapter of the Arizona State University Alumni Association.