text:
Steven Moortel
Legislative Research Analyst
(602) 926-5987
Arizona House of Representatives
House Majority Research
1700 W. Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2848
Senator Blendu, Chairman
Representative Knaperek, Vice Chairman
CC: Representative Konopnicki, Senator Waring
DATE: December 19,2005
SUBJECT: Sunset Review ofthe Prescott Historical Society of Arizona
Attached is the final report of the sunset review of the Prescott Historical Society of
Arizona, which was conducted by the Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform & Government Finance Accountability Committee of Reference.
This report has been distributed to the following individuals and agencies:
Governor of the State of Arizona
The Honorable Janet Napolitano
President of the Senate
Senator Ken Bennett
Senate Members
Senator Jim Waring, Vice Chairman
Senator Bill Brotherton
Senator Jake Flake
Senator Linda Gray
Senator Harry E. Mitchell
Speaker of the House of Representatives
Representative Jim Weiers
House Members
Representative Bill Konopnicki, Chairman
Representative Ted Downing
Representative Phil Lopes
Representative John McComish
Representative John Nelson
Prescott Historical Society of Arizona
Arizona State Library, Archives & Public Records
Office of the Auditor General
Senate Majority Staff
Senate Research Staff
Senate Minority Staff
Senate Resource Center
House Majority Staff
House Research Staff
House Minority Staff
Chief Clerk
Senate Government and House of Representatives Government Reform & Finance
Accountability Committee of Reference
Committee of Reference Report
Prescott Historical Society of Arizona
The Pursuant to Arizona Revised Statutes section (A.R.S. § 41-2953), the Joint
Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) assigned the sunset review of the Arizona State Personnel
Board (Board) to the Senate Government and House of Representatives Government Reform &
Government Finance Accountability Committee of Reference for review.
Prescott Historical Society of Arizona was created in Laws 1964, Ch. 50 §1 for the
purpose of preserving, maintaining and perpetuating the gubernatorial mansion, the Sharlot Hall
Museum and the historical collections contained in the mansion and museum and on the grounds
of the mansion and museum in Prescott, Arizona. Additionally, the Society procures by gift,
exchange or purchase; books, maps, papers, goods, artifacts, utensils, museum specimens and
other data or materials pertaining to the history of Arizona and the west, amongst other statutory
duties. The Society receives legislative appropriation as well as funding from additional private
sources such as donation and fees.
Committee ofReference Sunset Review Procedures
The Committee of Reference held one public meeting on November 1, 2005 to review the
Society's response to the 12 sunset factors, as well as four additional questions, as required by
A.R.S. § 41-2954, subsections D and F, and to accept public testimony. The Committee of
Reference received testimony from Richard Simms, Director of the Prescott Historical Society of
Committee ofReference Recommendations
The Committee of Reference recommended that the Prescott Historical Society of
Arizona be continued for ten years.
1. Agency Response
2. Meeting Notice
3. Minutes of the Committee of Reference Meeting
September 22, 2005
Representative Bill Konopnicki
House of Representatives
State ofArizona
House Wing, Capitol Building
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
RE: Sunset Review Process, Prescott Historical Society (Sharlot Hall Museum)
Dear Mr. Konopnicki:
This document contains the responses requested by you as. Chair ofthe Committee of
Reference, as that committee begins the work ofreviewing this state agency, the Prescott
Historical Society, better known to the public as the Sharlot Hall Museum, founded by
former Territorial Historian and author Sharlot M. Hall in 1928. The Museum became a
state agency in 1965. The Board and Staffof the Sharlot Hall Museum/Prescott
Historical appreciate this opportunity to present a full profile ofthis award-winning
Below is the detailed response to the 12 decision factors and the 4 additional responses
requested in your letter ofJuly 15,2005:
Twelve Decision Factors
1. The objective andpurpose in establishing the agency. The Prescott Historical
Society ofArizona was established in 1965 pursuant to Arizona Revised Statute
41-831. The objective was to create stable annual funding for a 40-year-old
institution that "preserves, maintains and perpetuates" (a) the 1864 Territorial
Governor's Mansion, (b) the Shar10t Hall Museum campus ofwhich the
Governor's Mansion is one of several historic buildings, and (c) the historical
artifact and archival collections of the museum agency's mission area, the Central
Highlands ofArizona. The purpose in establishing the museum agency was to
assure that avast area ofthe State ofArizona not served by other state museums
receives museum services. The Central Highlands reaches from Interstate 40 in
the north, to northern Maricopa County in the South, to the White Mountains in
the east, and to the Colorado River in the West.
2. The effectiveness with which the agency has met its objective andpurpose and the
efficiency with which it has operated. The Prescott Historical Society/Sharlot
Hall Museum has been highly effective in applying both state allocations and
revenues generated by its nonprofit organizational partner, the Sharlot Hall
Historical Society to the preservation and perpetuation ofhistory and heritage in
the Central Arizona Highlands. In recognition ofits work, this museum agency in
2003 was reaccredited by the American Association ofMuseums for its
"professional operations and adherence to current and evolving standards and best
practices, commitment to continued institutional improvement, and public service
and accountability"; in 2004 it received the Distinguished Organization Award
from the Arizona Humanities Council; and in 2005 the Executive Director,
Richard Sims, received the Distinguished Service Award from the Museum
Association ofArizona Such recognition and status has accrued to this museum
agency because it is seen as a model for other museums in the extent and quality
ofits service to the Prescott community, to Yavapai County, to the broader
mission area, and to the thousands ofin-state, national and international visitors.
To mention some projects over the past ten years, the SharlotHall Museum has
(a) installed an exhibit at Northern Arizona University on the 1868 Navajo Treaty
that allowed the Navajo people to return home from forced exile, using the
original document from the National Archives, an exhibit viewed with much
emotion by thousands ofNavajo, (b) helped Lake Havasu City open its first
museum, through consultation, assistance with fundraising, and exhibit
installation, (c) published the definitive biography ofa major Arizona public
figure, Ernest W. McFarland, Senator, Governor, and Chief Justice o'f Arizona,
(d) and closer to home, worked with the communities ofAsh Forle, Peeples
Valley, Jerome, Sedon~ and Clarkdale on their museum and heritage endeavors.
.The efficiency with which this state agency and its nonprofit support organization
have operated can be measured by the sheer volume ofpublic programs and
services offered by a reduced staffof 13 state employees (18 before the budget
cuts of 2002-2003) and 6 nonprofit employees. lbis highly productive staffhas
not only "made do" with the loss ofessential co-workers, buthas rededicated
itselfby offering additional services, such as the Lifelong Learning Institute, the
Prescott Book Festival and the Arizona Heritage Project, which works with high
school students around the state, in partnership with the Library of Congress.
This would not be possible without the vital and valuable assistance ofover 100
volunteers, and without the needed entrepreneurial revenues generated by the
nonprofit organization.
3. The extent to which the agency has operated in the public interest. Ifwe may
define "public interest" as public trust, public accountability, and public
availability, the Prescott Historical Society/Sharlot Hall Museum has maximized
its capacity to operate in such a manner. The museum agency occupies a city
block campus ofgalleries and gardens in downtown Prescott. The ungated
grounds are available to casual strollers and picknickers at all times. The formal
hours for museum visitors to the many exhibit buildings are· 10-5, MondaySaturday,
and 12-4 on Sundays. The Museum is closed for only three holidays,
Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years. During all other state holidays, the
museum remains open. In addition, the facilities are available on a scheduled
basis in the evenings and on weekends to outside groups, such as hospice groups,
service clubs, and conferences of city planners or Arizona Town Hall attendees.
The reader is referred to mention in no. 2 above of the many recognitions for
professional service that demonstrate maintenance ofthe public trust. The
museum has developed exhibits, lectures series, research programs, and festivals
that serve public expectations ofa large museum.
4. The extent to which rules adopted by the agency are consistent with the legislative
mandate. To date, the Prescott Historical Society has adopted no rules. However,
one rulemaking process will begin soon, in consultation with our Assistant
Attorney General, a result ofthe passing of a bill during the 2004 legislative
session that allows this state agency to charge of an admission fee for the daily
visitor. Such an ability to gain new revenue was a direct result ofthe severe
budget cuts absorbed by this agency during the two statewide 10% reduction
5. The extent to which the agency has encouraged inputfrom the public before
adopting its rules and the extent to which it has informed the public as to its
actions and their expected impact on the public. Again, no rules have been
adopted yet, but a rule regarding an admission fee is now being looked into. The
museum director has spoken to many service clubs, communicated with the
membership ofthe museum, and has explored the admission fee in his regular
Sunday column in the local newspaper. No resistance has yet been encountered.
Indeed, some individuals wondered why the fee (instead ofdonation) had not
been in place long before.
6. The extent to which the agency has been able to investigate and resolve
complaints within. its jurisdiction. As a museum, the Prescott Historical Society
-seldom receives complaints of any serious nature. There have been no complaints
to investigate and resolve, legally or procedurally, since the last sunset review.,
7. The extent to which the Attorney General or any other applicable agency ofstate
government has the authority to prosecute actions under the enabling legislation.
The Attorney General or an applicable state agency has legitimate authority, as far
as is known. No situation has arisen to activate such authority.
8. The extent to which the agency has addressed deficiencies in its enabling statutes
'that prevent itfromfuljilling its statutory mandate. One deficiency, mentioned in
n. 5 above, has been addressed - the transition from a donation-based museum
visit, to a fee-based museum visit. Other statutory language that needs
addressing includes the date for the annual meeting, and the limit on membership
dues of $25.
9. The extent to which changes are necessary in the laws ofthe agency to adequately
comply with these factors. Only modest measures are contemplated, such as
allowing the annual meeting to take place during a particular month, rather than
on a certain day; and allowing a membership dues schedule to accommodate
many levels of generosity and support, well above the $25 "ceiling." Currently,
the membership dues are a non-state revenue stream, and a program of the
nonprofit partner organization.
10. The extent to which the termination ofthe agency would significantly hdrm the
public health, safety or welfare. Ofcourse, museum operations are not
necessarily related to public heath and safety, unless one considers that a thinking
and informed public, presented with insights into Arizona's heritage and cultures
in a variety ofpleasing formats, is a healthier and safer public. Public welfare, in
the sense of the economic stability ofdowntown Prescott and ofthe service area,
would be significantly hanned by the absence ofone ofArizona's premier
museums. On any list of state tourism attractions, the Sharlot Hall Museum is
consistently in the top twenty. Termination would require that thousands of
objects and documents in the historical collections go into receivership, and
dispersed to other, probably overcrowded and less accessible, storage locations.
Termination would mean the loss ofthe premier cultural institution in a major
population area ofthe state. Termination, ultimately, would mean the loss of
knowledge and perspective that is the basic work ofmuseums, and so important to
nurturing an involved citizenry.
11. The extent to which the level ofregulation exercised by the agency is appropriate
andwhether less or more stringent levels ofregulation would be appropriate.
Current levels ofregulation are appropriate.
12. The extent to which the agency has usedprivate contractors in the performance of
its duties and how effective use ofprivate contractors could be accomplished.
Occasional trade and craft specialists are employed for targeted maintenance of
elements of historic buildings and modem buildings on the museum campus, such
as plumbers, roofers, and electricians, and alarm system workers. Occasional use
ofmuseum specialists, related to specific projects, such as an exhibit on Prescott's
Chinese community, or archival preservation of antique maps, is funded through
grant money, or other non-state money. The current level·ofuse ofprivate
contractors is felt to be effective and strategic, relating to preservation ofhistoric
material, and presentation ofhistoric information.
Four Additional Responses
1. An identification ofthe problem or the needs that the agency is intending to
address. There is one significant problem that resonates through all other
challenges - the budget cuts to this state agency in recent years that reduced
annual allocations from $800,000 to $640,000. These reductions resulted in the
vacancy ofthree state positions, and in the inability to replace two state workers
who departed of their own volition. These reductions also resulted in the further
burdening ofnon-state funds in order to address fundamental expenditures related
to the maintenance of state property, such as the electric bill for a large campus
with many buildings, repairs to groundskeeping equipment, office supplies, and
replacement of one aging pick-up truck. At one time, the goal was to have state
funds matched by non-state funds. That goal occurred, but in the wrong way.
Instead of growing non-state funds to match state funds, the reverse has happened
- state funds decreased to the level of non-state funds. Nonetheless, operational
stability has been maintained, although our "human capital" is stretched to the
limit, and feeling under-rewarded for having to do more with less.
2. A statement, to the extent practicable, in quantitative andqualitative terms, ofthe
objectives ofsuch agency and its anticipated accomplishments. The objective of
the Prescott Historical Society/Sharlot Hall Museum is to increase the service
capacity ofthe agency/museum by expanding the physical facilities, and by
increasing the staffand the revenue (quantitative) to effectively operate the larger
museum campus for increased service delivery (qualitative). It is anticipated that
a $4 million capital and endowment campaign now underway will address that
objective, by 2008-2009. See attached "Honoring the Legacy" campaign
3. An identification ofany other agencies having similar, conflicting, or duplicate
objectives, and an explanation ofthe manner in whic;h the agency avoids
duplication or coriflict with other agencies. Other agencies that provide similar
services related to historical education and historical research include the state
library system, the Arizona Historical Society, and certain components ofthe state
parks system, such as Fort Verde State Park and McFarland State Park. We are
unaware of any agencies that have conflicting or duplicative services. Avoidance
ofduplication or conflict occurs through frequent communications among
museum professionals in the state, in both the public and the private sector. The
Museum Association of Arizona is a primary clearinghouse for idea and
information exchange. Through the years, many Prescott Historical Society staff
have served in leadership positions on the MAA board. The work of history and
heritage is wide and deep, and the Prescott Historical Society aggressively serves
its mission area, the Central Highlands or middle third ofArizona, sometimes
partnering with public or private museums.
4. An assessment ofthe consequences ofeliminating the agency or ofconsolidating
it with another agency. Eliminating the agency/museum would cause irreparable
harm to the work of maintaining and exhibiting Arizona's history and heritage.
Historical documents and artifacts would be scattered to other museums or
agencies, and a centralized database ofprecious collections, as well as a valuable
museum visitor experience, would be dissolved. Eliminating the agency/museum
would be a serious blow to the economy ofdowntown Prescott, where the Sharlot
Hall Museum is the major regional attraction. Consolidation, as a previous JLBC
study (1991-1992) showed, would not result in any efficiencies or savings. A
major public-private partnership would be severed, a partnership that nurtures the
existence and the growth ofone ofArizona's finest, award-winning museums.
Many private contributors (corporate sponsors, individual donors, family-based
members, foundations) would be dismayed by such actions, knowing that
elimination or consolidation would diminish the value, indeed negate the very
meaning, oftheir support.
The Prescott Historical Society stands by to clarify information, or to provide additional
information. We look forward to the Sunset Review process, for we see it as an
opportunity to inform the Arizona State Legislature ofthe worthiness ofthis agency.
Sharlot Hall Museum
Board of Trustees
Prescott Historical Society
Sharlot Hall Historical Society
19 Members
Richerd Sima
Possible Hiring Order
NewNacant Positions
Over the Next 2-6 Years:
The un-shaded boxes are State employees
through Prescott Historical Society, a State agency
The shaded boxes are employees of the Sharlot
Hall Historical Society, a non-profit organization
Jeanne Welch
Secratary H HC:OClldlnatQr&'
Gall Sinon (KartnCi\rllslt
Curator of Children's Education
Maintenance or Custodial Person
Assistant Curator
Administrative Assistant
IT Person
Visitor Services
Scott Anderaon
Cody Bennett
Physical Plant
Bob Fields
Carlos Parra
of Education
Warr.n Millar
Ryan Flahive
Curetor ot
George Fuller
of Anthropology
Sandy Lynch
Curator of
Mlck Woodcock
Curator For.
the Humanities
.Pan Shilling '.
Note: The services of the Museum to its
mission area are augmented by over
150 volunteers and by an Adjunct
Curator program that numbers
apprOXimately six scholars at any
given time.
Note: The Museum, founded in 1928 by
Sharlot M. Hall, has a current
operating budget of $1.1 million
and a campus of 3.5 acres.
Senate Government and House of Representatives Government Reform
and Government Finance Accountability Committee of Reference for the
Sunset Review of: Prescott Historical Society, Arizona State Personnel
Board, Government Information and Technology Agency, and Arizona
Department of Administration
Minutes of the Meeting
Tuesday, November 1,2005
9:30 a.m., House Hearing Room 1
Members Present:
Representative Bill Konopnicki, CoChair
Representative Ted Downing
Representative Phil Lopes
Representative John McComish
Representative John Nelson
Members Absent:
Senator Jake Flake
Senator Jim Waring, CoChair
Senator Bill Brotherton
Senator Linda Gray
Senator Harry Mitchell
Steve Moortel, House Assistant Legislative Analyst
Nadine Sapien, Senate Government Analyst
Chairman Konopnicki called the meeting to order at 9:30 A.M. and the
attendance was taken.
Richard Sims, Director, Prescott Historical Society, presented a brief
overview of the Prescott Historical Society, also known as the Sharlot Hall
Museum, its work both in and around Prescott, and some of the museum's
Senator Waring asked if the Prescott Historical Society is charging an admission
fee to the museum. Mr. Sims stated through House Bill 2490 (2004), the
Historical Society is allowed to charge an admission fee to the museum. The fee
is $5 for adults and children 18 and under are free.
Senator Waring asked Mr. Sims if it is true that the Historical Society wants to
raise membership dues. Mr. Sims stated the membership program is run·
through the non-profit society which can charge more market rate dues instead of
the low and outdated numbers in the State statute.
Representative McComish asked if the Historical Society's $4 million
capital campaign is being run through the non-profit society. Mr. Sims stated the
campaign is being run through the non-profit.
Representative McComish asked how much of the Society's operating budget
comes from the State and the non-profit. Mr. Sims stated the Society is matching
the State funds of over $600,000 with the non-profifactivities.
Senator Lopes requested that the Historical Society report back as to what the
impact is on the utilization of the museum as a result of the admission fee. Mr.
Sims stated he would be happy to report that information back to the Committee.
Senator Brotherton asked what is the Historical Society's current budget. Mr.
Sims stated the current budget is $640,000 and has been in place for the last
three years. Mr. Sims stated the budget had been reduced from $800,000 due to
budget cuts and as a result the museum had to cut five State positions.
Senator Brotherton asked if the loss of employees is an ongoing issue for the
museum. Mr. Sims stated the loss of State personnel is an ongoing problem as
a result of prior budget cuts.
Senator Brotherton asked Mr. Sims where he would want the budget to be on an
annual basis. Mr. Sims stated he would like to see the budget fully recovered
back to 18 full time employees.
Senator Gray asked how much money has come in from the $5 admission fee.
Mr. Sims stated that tracking back to last October the museum has budgeted for
a little over $50,000 based on daily attendance. Mr. Sims did not have the
figures for the current quarter but he stated that he would report back to Senator
Gray with those numbers.
Mr. Sims stated all of the money from State allocations goes towards personnel
and risk management costs and everything else needed to run the museum
comes from the non-profit revenue stream.
Representative Lucy Mason stated her appreciation for Mr. Sims' ability to run
the museum with the resources that have been allocated and urged the
committee to continue with the funding of the Historical Society.
Representative Konopnicki stated the Committee will do what it can to try to
restore the museum's funding but he is not sure how soon, or if ever, funding can
be re-established to agencies that have been cut.
Representative McComish stated the Historical Society has done a great job of
working with the private sector and non-profits. Representative McComish
added that this does bring up the question of how much responsibility the State
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 2
takes for buying certain items, such as mop heads, and how much do non-profits
Senator Waring moved to recommend the continuation of the Prescott Historical
Society for ten years and the motion was seconded by Representative Lopes.
Roll call vote was taken on the recommendation and passed 9-0-1
(Attachment 1).
Senator Brotherton stated he supports the continuation and that he would like to
see more of the non-profit monies that are raised being used for the extras that
cannot be achieved through State funds instead of so much of it going towards
the operational budget of the museum. Senator Brotherton also stated he does
not believe it is fair to cut taxes and not to give money back to State agencies
that have been cut and stretched thin for a long time.
Senator Gray commended Mr. Sims on the job that he is doing.
Representative Konopnicki commended the Prescott Historical Society on the job
that it is doing and stated that while there has been talk of a tax cut, the
Legislature has to be careful in the next few years with how they try to reestablish
State agencies.
Judy Henkel, Executive Director, Arizona State Personnel Board, presented
a brief history and overview of the Arizona State Personnel Board.
Representative Downing asked what the frequency is of whistleblower
complaints and what savings the State may have incurred because of these
complaints. Ms. Henkel stated the Board received approximately seven to ten
whistleblower complaints last fiscal year and each hearing process costs
approximately $1,100.
Representative Downing asked how many ofthe whistleblowers' allegations were
upheld. Ms. Henkel responded that in a majority of the cases the employee does
not win because the whistleblower statute is very specific as to what has to be
proven and in a majority of the cases those specifics were not met.
Representative Downing commented whistleblowers play an important role in
government reform and fiscal responsibility and these people need to be
protected in order for them to come forward with information.
Senator Waring asked how many responses the Board had received from the
satisfaction surveys which are mailed to all parties involved in hearings. Ms.
Henkel stated the Board hears about 48 cases or more each year and
approximately half respond to the surveys.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 3
Representative Lopes pointed out that appeals and complaints rose from 62. in
2004 to 101 in 2005 and asked Ms. Henkel if this increase in one year is normal
and if this statistic concerns her.
Ms. Henkel stated the fluctuation varies and in some years the numbers have
been much lower. Ms. Henkel added settlements have increased to 30% and as
a result even though the Board has received 101 complaints most likely some of
those have settled.
Ms. Henkel stated the only concern she has is if there were an increase in the
number of appeals filed it would increase the Board's budget.
Representative Lopes asked what the difference in cost is between a case that
settles and one that goes through the entire process. Ms. Henkel stated the
average cost for a hearing is $1,100 and the savings for a case that is settled is
approximately half of that.
Representative McComish asked if the Board has a procedure to give feedback
to an agency in order to learn from a complaint that has been filed. Ms. Henkel
stated in the past agencies have contacted the Board and in some cases the
Board has met with agency directors.
Senator Waring moved to recommend a continuation of the Arizona State
Personnel Board for ten years and the motion was seconded by Representative
Roll call vote was taken and the motion passed 9-0-1 (Attachment 2).
Jay Dunkleberger, Senior Performance Auditor, Arizona Office of the
Auditor General, presented a PowerPoint presentation of the Office's
Performance Audit and Sunset Review of the Government Information
Technology Agency (GITA) and Sunset Review of the Information Technology
Authorization Committee (ITAC) (Attachment A).
Senator Waring asked if it is a fair assessment that GITA is not performing the
functions in the security and privacy areas that it should. Mr. Dunkleberger
stated that he would not characterize it that way but GITA does need
improvement in enforcing policies and standards.
Senator Mitchell commented that an Auditor General's report titled "Department
of Administration Information Services Division Telecommunications Program
Office,n seems to be asking this office the same thing that the Auditor General is
asking GITA to do. Senator Mitchell asked if there are two different agencies
involved with security.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 4
Mr. Dunkleberger responded GITA's role is to set the statewide standard and the
Department of Administration (DOA) enforces security within its agency and has
a role in the privatized telecommunications network. Mr. Dunkleberger added
there is some overlap and in the recommendation, the Auditor General is looking
for GITA to provide guidance for all agencies, including DOA's administration of
the telecommunications project.
Senator Brotherton asked what mechanisms are available for enforcing policies
that are already in place. Mr. Dunkleberger stated GITA asks agencies to self
report their compliance with security standards each year and GITA will then
meet with those agencies to attempt to improve problems that have been
identified. GITA has also formed a statewide security committee that examines
how to address security issues.
Senator Brotherton asked how GITA enforces policies if agencies do not comply.
Mr. Dunkleberger stated unless there have been changes made to GITA's
statutory requirement since the Auditor General's report, there is little in statute
that allows them to make physical changes to State agencies.
Senator Brotherton commented if there is an enforcement issue, it will be
something that the Committee needs to look at.
Mr. Dunkleberger commented the Auditor General did recommend the formation
of a Chief Security Officer position and for GITA to look at the statutory need of
this position and how it can be established in statute.
Senator Waring asked how many of GITA's projects fall between $25,000 and
$200,000. Mr. Dunkleberger stated in 2004 there were 87 projects and half fell
under $200,000.
Chris Cummiskey, Director, GITA, and State Chief Information Officer,
provided GITA's response to the Auditor General. Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA
concurs with the overall findings and recommendations of the Auditor General
and is working to track and implement strategies for each one.
Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA's role is to sit as an independent agency to review
the work product of the other 114 agencies, boards, and commissions as it
relates to Informa~ion Technology (IT) planning and projects and make sure they
are working within a set of standards and protocols that have been agreed upon
by industry and other state governments across the country as best products.
Mr. Cummiskey stated since its inception, GITA has done a good job of making
sure that projects stay on budget, on time, and within the parameters set forth by
the Legislature.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
In regards to Senator Brotherton's previous questions regarding enforcement
mechanisms, Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA's options for enforcing compliance is
limited. The Project Investment Justification process (PIJ), by statute, requires
agencies to report to GITA with a plan and seek approval before they can move
forward with a project and the budget offices of both the Office of Strategic
Planning and Budgeting (OSPB) and the Joint Legislative Budget Committee
(JLBC) have been good about not authorizing the release of funds until this step
has been satisfied.
Mr. Cummiskey added GITA has few options when it comes to telling agencies to
change what they are doing. Mr. Cummiskey stated there are standards to which
GITA pointsto and they alsotry to work with them to comply but their only option
is to shut down the project funding.
Senator Waring asked Mr. Cummiskey if GITA has a plan to work with DOA
regarding security and privacy issues. Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA has been
working closely with DOA because it does have operational responsibility for the
common relays for communications across the agencies. GITA is also working
with an IT Security Advisory Committee, which consists of the three mainframe
agencies, the Department of Economic Security (DES), the Department of Public
Safety (DPS), and DOA, as well as other entities such as the Federal Bureau of
Investigation (FBI) and the universities to work on what the State needs to do to
protect the network in the best ways possible.
Mr. Cummiskey added GITA will appoint the Chief Security Officer position that
the Auditor General recommended to serve as a strategic link with DOA, the
Governor's Office for Homeland Security, and the Arizona Department of
Emergency and Military Affairs (DEMA), who all have pieces of the puzzle for
Representative Konopnicki commented that security is the most important issue
and GITA should be given more power to enforce security policies other than
shutting down project funding.
Mr. Commiskey stated GITA has received good compliance from the agencies
but because of the situation that GITA is in statutorily, the best way to get
compliance is to work with agency directors and their teams and educate them
as to why the IT standards are important as they relate to security and why they
need to be invoked. However, with 114 agencies it is taking time to educate
these agencies, especially those without large IT staffs.
Representative Konopnicki asked how important is it to firm up security issues
with the smaller agencies. Mr. Cummiskey stated it is very important not to leave
any agency or board behind. Mr. Cummiskey added GITA, in conjunction with
DOA, is in the process of shutting down access points to the internet.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 6
Representative Nelson commented that information in a response from GITA to
JLAC in October 2005 shows that a great deal of money was expended for a
number of projects that were not approved. Representative Nelson asked how
GITA got to a point where money is being spent on projects that do not move
Mr. Cummiskey stated that he could not answer what happened prior to January
2003 but since then he does not know of any projects that fall into this category.
Mr. Cummiskey added that he will have his staff research this issue in order to
find a resolution so this will not happen again in the future.
Senator Brotherton asked Mr. Cummiskey if he believed there is a need for
additional enforcement tools or if the current mechanisms are adequate if used
effectively. Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA is cautious with the Auditor General's
recommendation of auditing an agency and going beyond simply requiring an
agency to report on their progress as it relates to the standards. Mr. Cummiskey
added GITA can go in and find out why an agency is not complying with the IT
standards from a strategic standpoint as it relates to the standards, but they feel
they do not have the expertise in-house to take over an agency's operation if
they do not comply.
Senator Brotherton commented that information regarding agencies that do not
comply with security standards should be more readily available to the
Senator Brotherton asked Mr. Cummiskey to comment on the difference of
opinion between the Auditor General and GITA in regards to consulting on the
actual creation and implementation of projects.
Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA has adopted an Interagency Service Agreement
with Enterprise Procurement Services to set out rules and responsibilities and sit
in on committees that are established to look at large scale IT projects as
technical advisors. Mr. Cummiskey added the point that GITA did not want to
cross over was becoming voting members of those committees because they felt
that it would compromise their ability to be independent and communicative with
both the Governor's office as well as the Legislature.
Representative Downing asked if the Legislature receives a scorecard illustrating
agencies' compliance with security standards and if such a scorecard would be
useful. Mr. Cummiskey stated currently members of the Legislature are not
being provided that information, however, it would be a useful tool and GITA is in
the position to provide the members that information.
Representative Downing commented that having that information available to the
members of the Legislature would be useful.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 7
Representative Downing asked if GITA provides technical support to the.
Secretary of State. Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA has not provided technical
assistance to the Secretary of State. Mr. Cummiskey added typically with the
Secretary of State and other constitutionally elected officers, GITA will not
provide assistance unless requested by a particular office.
Representative Downing asked if GITA should be assigned a statutory role to
protect the security of the State's voting systems. Mr. Cummiskey stated there is
value in having an agency that tracks and manages best practices involved in
large scale technological acquisitions with the State.
Representative Downing recommended that the Legislature consider GITA
having an active technical advisory role with the State's voting systems.
Senator Brotherton asked if there is a potential security risk with those offices
that GITA does not provide technical support to. Mr. Cummiskey stated GITA
does have a partnership with most of the State entities in State government. Mr.
Cummiskey added there are some entities that decided they have enough inhouse
IT council and they do not need additional information from GITA.
However, if these entities do connect to the State network they must comply with
GITA standards and DOA has been vigilant about this.
Representative Konopnicki commented that he agreed with Senator Brotherton
and it is important to make sure that all entities must comply with GITA standards
if they connect to the State network.
Senator Waring moved to recommend a continuation of the Government
Information Technology Agency for ten years and the motion was seconded
Roll call vote was taken and the motion passed 6-0-4 (Attachment 3).
Dale Chapman, Performance Audit Manager, Arizona Office of the Auditor
General, presented a PowerPoint presentation of the Office's Performance Audit
and Sunset Review of the Arizona Department of Administration (Attachment B).
Representative Lopes asked if the audit was able to determine if DOA was able
to achieve its goals of limiting growth of health care costs and increase provider
choice through the implementation of self-funded health benefits. Mr. Chapman
stated it was too early to determine if the program has achieved any savings or
reduction of costs. Mr. Chapman added the program has increased choice for
Representative Lopes asked if there are any mechanisms in place to assure the
consistency of workers' compensation claims awarded. Mr. Chapman ~tated
DOA's processes, policies, and procedures were reviewed to determine if they
did conform with statute and if the policies and procedures were followed. Mr.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 8
Chapman added with a few exceptions it was found by and large that the policies
and procedures are being followed.
Representative Lopes asked if the issue of timeliness was looked at in the review
of DOA's plans for the oversight of procurement in the State. Mr. Chapman
stated at the time of the audit DOA was implementing this program and the
Department might be better able to answer that question.
Bill Bell, Director, Arizona Department of Administration, provided the
Department's response to the Auditor General's recommendations. Mr. Bell
stated the Auditor General's report provides an excellent diagram for how to
begin to approach some of the problems that were identified and DOA plans to
follow many of the recommendations.
Kathy Peckardt, Director of Human Resources, Arizona Department of
Administration, provided the response to the Auditor General's
recommendations for Human Resources Information System (HRIS)
(Attachment B) which were to develop a plan for the completion for HRIS and
enhance user participation.
Ms. Peckardt stated DOA has met with the large State agencies and developed a
systematic methodology to develop a process to find what is important to the
agencies as phase two of HRIS begins. This information will be used in
developing a five year plan that will be completed approximately by January.
Ms. Peckardt added DOA is also working on a data warehouse that will contain
employee information such as turnover.
Senator Brotherton asked what the turnover rate is for DOA and if there is a
target percentage for where they would like the turnover rate to be. Ms. Peckardt
stated DOA's turnover rate is approximately on average with the State's overall
turnover rate of 17.6% and would like to be more in line with rates of other states
and local cities which is between 11% and 12%.
Senator Brotherton asked what issues need to be addressed in order to reduce
the turnover rate. Ms. Peckardt stated if the issue of pay is addressed it will
reduce the turnover rate significantly.
Representative Konopnicki asked where DOA is in the development of the
comprehensive plan for HRIS. Ms. Peckardt stated DOA is currently in the
process of obtaining agency involvement and asking for their input of priorities for
the next five years. This information is expected to be received by the end of
November and will then be prioritized in December. It is anticipated that a
completed plan will be finalized in January.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 9
Tim Boncoskey, Assistant Director of Enterprise Procurement Services,
Arizona Department of Administration, responded to the Auditor General's five
recommendations for improving oversight of procurement in the State
(Attachment B). Mr. Boncoskey stated all five recommendations are in the
process of being completed.
Senator Gray asked what areas of House Bill 2582 (2001), which allowed
reverse bidding, have been implemented. Mr. Boncoskey stated DOA is
currently working with vendors but there has not been any reverse bidding. Mr.
Boncoskey added DOA is looking to have reverse bidding up and operating by
the end of this fiscal year.
Ray Di Ciccio, State Risk Manager, Arizona Department of Administration,
responded to the Auditor General's two recommendations for workers'
compensation (Attachment B).
Mr. DiCiccio stated the first recommendation was to improve employee
communication by providing more information through the phone system and
website. Mr. DiCiccio stated both the phone system and website have been
updated. Mr. DiCiccio added other items have been implemented to help with
communication. These include an agency liaison that goes to the agencies and
provides employees with information, semi-annual meetings with all of the
agencies in order to discuss workers' compensation benefits, and a
representative who is sent to employee orientations to explain reporting
requirements and benefits.
In response to the second issue of the backlog of workers' compensation claims,
DOA has already put a special emphasis on that and there is no longer a
Representative Konopnicki commented that in the audit it is mentioned that the
employee makes the workers' compensation claim but in some cases the DOA
was already acting on cases before they were reported and in others DOA waited
until after the claim was reported. Representative Konopnicki stated this is an
issue that needs to be looked at because all employees should be treated the
same way.
Mr. DiCiccio stated it is important to act on the claims in a timely manner but he
is not aware of any differences in how DOA is processing the claims because
there is a manual that states the procedures to follow on each claim.
Kathy Peckardt, in response to health benefit complaints, stated DOA does have
a help desk for the sole purpose of addressing complaints from employees
regarding their health benefits.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Refonn and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 10
Representative Downing commented a help desk is useful for an employee that
has the capacity to complain but some employees are incapacitated and cannot
call a help desk.
Mr. Bell stated DOA will be reviewing its procedures and auditing its vendors and
if there is a structural problem, it will be fixed.
Representative Konopnicki commented that there was an immediate increase of
14% in the insurance premium, an upcoming increase of 17%, and consultant
fees were $6 or $7 million and he wanted to know when this increase in spending
will stop. Mr. Bell stated it is DOA's objective to reduce costs and make this a
cost effective project while providing the kind of service that is expected to
Michael Totherow, Assistant Director of the Information Services Division
(ISO) Chief Information Officer, Arizona Department of Administration,
provided DOA's response to the Auditor General's recommendations for ISO and
the Telecommunications Program Office (Attachment B).
Mr. Totherow stated in regards to the Auditor General's findings, ISO embraces
as many best practices as possible to provide security for the systems housed
within DOA's data center and the services provided for other agencies. Mr.
Totherow added ISO is a cost recovery operation not directly funded for security
services and when money is limited, many agencies will focus on serving the
constituency and security is often put to the side.
In regards to the recommendation of a state-wide security officer, Mr. Totherow
stated there is an overlap with this recommendation and the recommendation for
a chief security officer for GITA and DOA has been working with GITA to define
what the best scenario would look like.
In regards to the recommendation for the need for the Telecommunications
Office to oversee the inventory process, Mr. Totherow stated through next March
agencies will continue to transition on to AZNET. During this time agencies will
be taking what they are providing for their own telecommunications and data
wide area network (WAN) an d then turning it over to the program control of
Accenture to run in an outsource fashion. This turn over of control is where
agencies are looking at what their inventory is, signing off on what is in scope
and out of scope, and concur that requirements are met.
Representative McComish asked what can be done when agencies do not want
to pay for independent security assessments of their information systems at least
once every three years as recommended by national standards. Mr. Totherow
stated GITA adopts many of these national standards into their standards and
policies that have been enforced upon agencies and the costs have become part
of their budgetary process.
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 11
Mr. Bell stated there is a gap in security and a plan needs to be developed that
encompass all of the agencies in regards to this gap and also develop a
comprehensive program that can be administered consistently to help agencies
with security issues.
Representative Konopnicki agreed with Mr. Bell and stated the State cannot
afford to treat security like it has in the past.
Senator Brotherton asked if DOA can prevent an agency from connecting to the
State network if they do not have the proper security standards. Mr. Totherow
stated DOA does not have the authority to enforce security in other agencies,
constitutional offices, the Legislature, or the courts and this is the gap that DOA
would be working with GITA to address from a state wide perspective.
Senator Brotherton asked how talking to GITA will give DOA the authority to
enforce security. Mr. Bell stated there are gaps and confusion as to DOA's
responsibilities in regards to security and it is important for DOA to sit down with
GITA and other agencies to find an answer to this problem.
Representative Konopnicki commented that the issue of security enforcement
and responsibility needs to be solved as soon as possible and in order for that to
happen GITA needs to playa large role and DOA's responsibilities need to be
Mr. Bell stated whether it is GITA, DOA, or another agency that is responsible for
security, it is important to find a solution and provide the security that everyone is
Representative Konopnicki stated the responsibility for security needs to go to a
cabinet level agency where security polices can be set and enforced.
Senator Brotherton commented if the Legislature needs to do something, it
needs to be done this legislative session.
Representative Konopnicki stated this is a non-political issue and an issue that is
paramount to the security of Arizona. Representative Konopnicki added that
DOA should take the lead and come back to the Committee with
Mr. Bell stated DOA takes the Auditor General's report seriously and will be
working diligently to implement their recommendations.
Senator Waring moved to recommend the continuation of the Arizona
Department of Administration for ten years and was seconded by Representative
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Government Reform and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 12
Roll call vote was taken and the motion passed 7-0-3 (Attachment 4).
Representative Konopnicki commented that the security issue jumped off the
page in everything that was looked at and the Committee would not be doing its
due diligence if they did not follow up on that issue and make something happen.
There being no further business, Representative Konopnicki adjourned the
meeting at 12:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Committee Secretary
(Tapes and attachments on file in the Secretary of the Senate's Office/Resource Center, Room
Senate Government and House of Representatives
Govemment Refonn and Government Finance Accountability
Committee of Reference
November 1, 2005
Page 13
Recommendation: Continuation of the Prescott Historical Society for ten
Rep. Downing x
Rep. Lopes x
Rep. McComish x
Rep. Nelson x
Senator Brotherton x
Senator Flake x
Senator Gray x
Senator Mitchell x
Senator Waring, CoChair x
Rep. Konopnicki, CoChair x
Committee Secretary -~-=..7.: ) ~::;...:;--,< =T....J.1.'--._- _
November, 2002
Date November 1J 2005
Recommendation: Continuation of the Arizona State Personnel Board for ten
Rep. Do.wning x
Rep. Lopes x
Rep. McComish x
Rep. Nelson x
Senator Brotherton x
Senator Flake x
Senator Gray x
Senator Mitchell x
Senator Waring, CoChair x
Rep. Konopnicki, CoChair x
Committee Secretary
November, 2002
k·~:r--"._--- Date November 1, 2005
REFERENCE FOR THE SUNSET REVIEW OF: PRESCOn
Recommendation: Continuation of Government Information Technology
Agency for ten years.
Rep. Downing x
Rep. Lopes x
Rep. McComish x
Rep. Nelson x
Senator Brotherton x
Senator Flake x
Senator Gray x
Senator Mitchell x
Senator Waring, CoChair x
Rep. Konopnicki, CoChair x
Committee Secretary -----:t):.,e-~..=...c-~'-->{;-;\;-~"""'7l:--'---- Date November 1! 2005
November, 2002
Recommendation: Continuation of the Arizona Department of Administration
for ten years.
Rep. Downing x
Rep. lopes x
Rep. McComish x
Rep. Nelson x
Senator Brotherton x
Senator Flake x
Senator Gray x
Senator Mitchell x
Senator Waring, CoChair x
Rep. Konopnicki, CoChair x
Committee Secretary -----,pf7l!'::::L.M.a:::.<:~l]."."..".;':~z.;..,.-..-._.----
November, 2002
Date November 1, 2005
Click tabs to swap between content that is broken into logical sections.


text:
What do you all think about using a all black bow in a treestand. I will mostly be doing ground blind hunting so I am thinking of getting a black bow for that reason.
I figure it probably isn't that big of deal since it wasn't that long ago there were no camo bows (or few) but I would like the opinions of others that hunt as I am brand new to it.
I like the looks of the all black bows too.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Big thanks putting in the time for all the replies. a 1/4" isnt a big deal and well within reason, but 1/2-1" is stretching it. if a bow is presumably 27-30" specs, and some run long and some dont, too me that means there may be to many variables involved in the manufacturing process or assembly. QC should take measurements,etc., and if it isnt what it is supposed to be then the spec sheet should be changed, or at the very least have the bow tagged at whatever it measured out too, imo. i read a thread where someone bought a bow(onza?) and it was too long/short etc., and then it just didnt work out for them, and that is preventable.
as far as the weight being over , i know that we're splitting hairs and not exactly in a controlled scientific testing lab, but people frequently purchase a bow based on its size/weight/dimensions. things like that need to be very close. on the other hand if it weighed less than specs i bet most folks wouldnt care .
phantoza i bet postage hasnt been exactly cheap to finland for all them martins from washington state, lol.. what does the onza weigh fully set up?


text:
Main Content
When your Razorbacks take the field on Saturday, be ready in the ultimate 12th man style with this Nike replica football jersey! This jersey has a printed #7 on the front, back and shoulders as well as the team logo at the collar and the team name across the chest to make it look like the ones your Razorbacks wear on game day. Arkansas needs fans like you sporting unmatched team pride on any occasion. Lead the way in pushing your team to victory with bold on-field style.
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Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
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Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


text:
Latest News
New Archbishop for Yaoundé, Cameroon
October 31, 2014. Pope Francis appointed Mons. Jean Mbarga as new Archbishop of Yaoundé (Cameroon).
New Bishop for Cuzco, Peru.
October 28, 2014. Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Archbishop Juan Antonio Ugarte Perez from Cuzco, Peru. He will be succeeded by Bishop Richard Daniel Alarcon Urrutia, who currently serves as the Bishop of Tarma, Peru.
#Synod 2014
LIVE BROADCAST: Presentation of the Final Message of the Synod on the Family
October 18, 2014. Presentation of the Final Message of the Synod on the Family.
#Synod 2014
The topic of the second part of the Synod on the Family has been announced
October 13, 2014. The new topic for the second part of the Synod on the Family will be "The vocation and the mission of the family within the Church and in the contemporary world."
This second part will take place in Rome from October 4-25, 2015. The issues dealt with during the first part of the Synod, which concludes this week, will be further discussed in this second part.
Priest kidnapped in Syria is freed
October 9, 2014. Fr. Hassan Jallouf, 62, has been freed and taken to a convent in Knayeh, Syria. He was kidnapped on the evening of October 5th. Of the 20 other Christians kidnapped that night, 4 women were also freed.
Pope Francis names new bishops for Italy, Spain & Brazil
October 8, 2014. Pope Francis has named several new bishops today. The Pope named Archbishop Celso Morga Iruzubieta as Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Mérida-Badajoz (Spain). As of now, Archbishop Morga Iruzubieta was secretary of the Congregation for the Clergy.
He also named Bishop Fausto Tardelli, from the diocese of San Miniato, as bishop of the Diocese of Pistoia (Italy). Finally, the Pope named a new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Goiânia (Brazil). He nominated Fr. Levi Bonatto, a priest from the personal prelature of Opus Dei.
Pastor and 20 Christians kidnapped in Syria
October 7, 2014. A pastor and roughly 20 Christians were kidnapped in Knayeh, Syria on the evening of October 5th. Fr. Hassan Jallouf, a 62 year old Franciscan, belongs to the Custody of the Holy Land. Local sources said that a group of armed members of Islamic militant group, Jahbat Al-Nusra, are responsible for the kidnapping.
All cardinals to meet at the Vatican on October 20
October 7, 2014. Pope Francis convoked a Consistory at the Vatican on October 20. All the cardinals will discuss the situation of Chistians in Middle East, especially of those suffering continuous attacks of ISIS.
Pope Francis will travel to France in 2015
October 7, 2014.Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi has announced that Pope Francis will visit France in 2015.
During his visit to the Vatican in January, French President Francois Hollande, formally invited the Pope to France. The mayor of Lourdes also extended an invitation.
It is likely that he will visit Lisieux, home of one of the Pope's favorite saints, St. Therese.
The last Pontiff to visit France was Benedict XVI in 2008.
Pope Francis: "Happy families are essential for society"
October 3, 2014. Pope Francis asked Christians to pray for the upcoming Synod on the Family via Twitter. He also said that "happy families are essential for society."
Happy families are essential for the Church and for society. #prayforsynod— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) octubre 3, 2014
Most Popular
Italian Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi turns 80 years old on Friday March 14th, which makes him ineligible to vote in an eventual conclave.
He was born in Renate, Italy in 1934. Years later, in 1957, the Archbishop of Milan, who eventually became Pope Paul VI, ordained him a priest. He was made a Cardinal by John Paul II in 1998.
He voted in the conclave that elected Benedict XVI and the one where Pope Francis was elected.
The College now has 217 Cardinals, of whom 119 are eligible to vote in a conclave.
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text:
Part six of a series on where Beijing residents enjoy a beverage (or two). This round is with entrepreneur, IT specialist, and former full-time bartender Badr Benjelloun.
"Beijing has changed a lot over the past few months and the Olympics have left a scar on the face of the city's drinking establishments. However, some bars / restaurants have managed to consistently get my patronage.
1. Salud: I've been going there over the past few months quite consistently. I love the atmosphere, the homemade rum, and the mix of locals and expats. It's a bit of a pain to get there from my area but completely worth it. Add the great environment in Nanluoguxiang, with the hutongs and the locals, and you get a great experience!
2. The Rickshaw: Yes, they have a few service problems but overall that's been the place that got most of my drinking moolah the past few years. I know almost everyone in there and it makes it comfortable. It's my local basically! The grub is nice and they still make great quesadillas and serve one hell of a stiff drink. The owner, Kris, has been around for a while in the Beijing scene and deserves a lot of credit. The current manager, Andy, bends backwards to make sure everyone is happy.
3. Peter's Tex Mex: A bit weird to include this one in my list of watering holes, but when I want good value, this is where I go. Best Tex-Mex in Beijing bar none and they have a great selection of wines at prices slightly above supermarket rates. The staff is friendly, the place is clean, and it's a nice quiet hideaway.
4. Wain Wain: One of the city's best-kept secrets. Hard to beat for a little mid-week beverage overlooking the city lights in a cosy environment. They have practically doubled their prices for the Olympics but still run some pretty good specials.
5. Kokomo and Q Bar: These two are tied because they are the only two places to make a decent Mai Tai which is one of my two favorite drinks. Kokomo even offers two varieties, an authentic one and a Hawaii Mai Tai. Q makes a hybrid Mai Tai that just rocks and had they managed to keep their patio opened longer, they would be in sole possession.
Posthumous mention: Maggie's. Spare me the jokes here! Despite the shady nature of the establishment, they offered a great mix of atmosphere and DJing night in and night out! The cocktails were solid and affordable when compared to some of these new places opening left and right.
Elisabeth Tchoudjinoff & Katrina Arndt, designers
Paul Adkins, entrepreneur
Chandler Jurinka, Local Noodles
Kevin Shen, T3 Terminal
Steven Schwankert, SinoScuba


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Theatre Breaks9 to 5 The Musical - Cardiff
A Chorus Line
A Midsummer Nights Dream
Barking in Essex
Billy Elliot
Burn The Floor
Charlie And The Chocolate Factory
Doktor Glas
Hairspray - Cardiff
Hairspray - Edinburgh
Henry V
Jersey Boys
Jesus Christ Superstar - Birmingham
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Les Miserables
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Relatively Speaking
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The 39 Steps
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The Lion King - Dublin
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Theatre Breaks
Our London theatre breaks combine all the drama of a great show, plus the buzz of the west end and luxury hotel accommodation.
You can be sure that with our theatre and hotel packages, you will receive tickets that are among the best in the house. Top band tickets are generally in the front stalls or dress circle depending on the layout of the auditorium. So you won't miss a word from the script, a single lyric from a musical and you'll get a great view of the stage and special effects.
If you would like to book a ready-made theatre break now, click here now:
You can be sure that with our theatre and hotel packages, you will receive tickets that are among the best in the house. Top band tickets are generally in the front stalls or dress circle depending on the layout of the auditorium. So you won't miss a word from the script, a single lyric from a musical and you'll get a great view of the stage and special effects.
If you would like to book a ready-made theatre break now, click here now:
Today's Featured BreakTodays featured break is Peter and Alice which is now showing at the Noel Coward Theatre.
With a clever twist on two classic stories, the Peter and Alice play is set to grace the stage of Noel Coward Theatre in a stunning balance of enchantment and reality
From 9th March 2013 to 1st June 2013, audiences can enjoy this new creation from Tony Award winner John Logan
Make a bookingYou may choose any show from our selection and combine it with any of the hotels that we list as available in theatreland. When using our booking system you should choose your show and the date that you would like to visit the theatre, you will then be presented with an appropriate list of hotels to stay in. Choose the number of rooms and people attending for a quotation. Before entering your credit card details look out for the many extras that can be purchased. You can book a ride on the London Eye, make a trip to the Tower of London, or get tickets to the Comedy Store too, this will make your London theatre break all the more special. Our booking system accepts all major credit cards.
What does a London theatre package consist of?A typical theatre package consists of a two nights stay at a hotel with bed and breakfast plus great tickets to your choice of show. You can choose from evening performances or matinee performances too, if available. You may opt for a single night stay, but theatre breaks are generally good value for two nights or more (remember to check that the hotel does not apply a surcharge for single nights). Many of the hotels in London have leisure facilities such as swimming pools or gym. There is a great selection to choose from, and most will give you easy access to the popular shops in the city.
Select a ShowWe are always the 'first to the box office' when new shows establish themselves, for example The Bodyguard, A Chorus Line and Viva Forever. We also supply the most famous, long running, classic plays and musicals such as Billy Elliot, Jersey Boys and Mamma Mia.
We have shows for all ages and a family theatre break is great fun for the kids and for Mum and Dad too. The Lion King and Shrek the Musical are all superb theatre breaks and suitable for all. Select a hotel with a family room and you have a great value theatre package. You could even spend a weekend sightseeing London town's famous historic places.
What's onAll our ready made theatre breaks can be quickly reviewed in our theatre break guide, alternatively click through the menu on the left and read the full details of the shows that interest you.
London SightseeingWhile you are staying in England's capital you have a great opportunity to explore the area. Make it a real holiday with visits to The London Eye, Madame Tussauds and Regents Park Zoo. All are no more than a tube ride away. Historic sites like the Tower Of London, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey are all great days out.
More ideas include the British Museum and The Planetarium. It will be heaven for shopping addicts with Knightsbridge, Oxford Street and Covent Garden all within easy reach. So as the curtain falls on your show, be sure to make the most of the remaining time you have left on your theatre vacation.
Tickets OnlyWe have a good selection of the best shows available for those of you who do not require hotel accommodation. Please click on the tickets tab to view. All tickets are available for online booking and there are some great special offers to be found there too.
Make Your Own London Theatre BreakSometimes we may not have a ready-made theatre package available, if this is the case you can always put together your own package by purchasing tickets from our Tickets section and then make a separate short break booking from our London Hotels section.
Gift VouchersIf you would like to buy a theatre break voucher as a gift please see our vouchers section. There are many to choose from and these make great gifts or Christmas, Birthdays and special occasions. With most you may choose from a selection of hotels and a good selection of the latest and greatest shows.
City Theatre breaksWhy stick to London for your show and hotel package? The best shows visit the biggest cities in the UK and below we have some places that are not only notable for super city breaks but are also hot spots for theatre shows, entertainment and top quality hotels. So consider exploring a different city when booking your package, there are some great value deals to be had all around the UK.
EdinburghLondon may be a top performer when it comes to the big shows, but Edinburgh theatre breaks are hard to beat. Edinburgh is hot on the heels of the west end and is always top of the list when the big shows go out on tour. Be sure to make the most of your visit to Scotland and checkout the sites, for example Edinburgh Castle makes a spectacular day out. Edinburgh is also home to some beautiful hotels.
ManchesterManchester is an increasingly popular city for theatre, and now you have the pleasure of enjoying our fantastic theatre breaks in Manchester. So why not take a look at these superb deals and combine them with an overnight stay at a top hotel in and around the main Manchester theatres.
BirminghamHave a look at the latest hotel and theatre deals on offer in our Birmingham theatre breaks section. Enjoy a great night at the show and overnight stay in a top hotel in the popular city of Birmingham to make it a break you will never forget.
CardiffTake a trip a trip to Wales and visit Cardiff, explore its delights and take in a show. Make the most of your visit to Cardiff and combine a night at the theatre with a great hotel stay. To see what we have on offer visit out Cardiff Theatre Breaks pages and in no time you will be looking forward to a great show and a hotel stay in Wales.
DublinA stay in Dublin makes a fantastic getaway but adding a theatre visit will make it a break you'll never forget. Dublin theatre break will offer you a top hotel and great tickets to a musical or play in the main city in Ireland. Enjoy the show and have a great time.
Opera BreaksIf you are looking for something different to the classic theatre play then why not enjoy a night watching an opera instead? Treat yourself to a classic night from one of our Opera and hotel deals which includes an overnight stay at a hotel of your choice making a night you will always remember.
- Once you have found the show you want to see and it has availability, waste no time in booking.
- If there is a show that you would like to see but it has not yet opened, use our future theatre breaks tab and we will drop you a line when it is ready for booking.
- Midweek theatre breaks are generally less busy than theatre weekends.
- Enjoy ... So now you have the details, go ahead and book a luxury London theatre break, you'll have the time of your life.
Information is subject to change without notice.


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AG-ed jeans combine the laid-back look of yesteryear with AG's jean making expertise of now. Updated with modern fabrics and styled with flattering fits, AG-ed denim is an ode to vintage emulating naturally aged denim ranging from 1 to 30 years old. From subtle rips to crafty patches, the higher the number, the lighter and more distressed the jean. A pair of AG-ed jeans is as close as you can get to that unique vintage flea market find. Slouchy slim. A slim, tapered leg jean that's most comfortable worn a little lower on the hips. Handcrafted distressing supplies a timeworn character to this low-slung jean. The deep indigo Old Country Fatigue wash features fading throughout, with heavy emphasis at front pockets and seat. Wallet shadow with threadbare hole at back pocket. Whiskering at front and wear pattern behind knee. Interior features selvage edge at outseam and antique patina at hem. Classic 5-pocket styling with worn edges, button fly, and contrast stitching.
FINAL SALE - cannot be returned or exchanged. No price adjustments.
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Gauchos Del Mar
One Dream. Two Brothers. One continent. Gauchos Del Mar follows the story of two brothers as they persue their dream of surfing the American Pacific showing the Continent as a whole, through its different cultures, villages, food, people, animals and landscapes while camping and surfing on their way back home to Argentina.
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Carpet Flex Basement Floor Carpet TileRead 10 Reviews | Write a Review - Share Images
On Sale Now $5.19 / piece Was:
Per SF $5.19 You Save 8%
This modular carpet tile is ideal for basement carpet flooring, family rooms and all for retail and office space. Install CarpetFlex modular carpeting for a unique floor that features construction that allows for airflow and keeps the carpet away from potential dampness. Each modular carpet tile is a single, snap-together unit for easy installation. Best of all, CarpetFlex carpet tile comes in two popular colors to choose from.
This Product Ships UPS Ground, FedEx Ground and/or Freight.
Please review our shipping disclaimer.
Customer Reviews
Customer Rating:
I would highly recommend this flooring to anyone that is thinking about a basement area. It was easy to install and did all the work myself. I have a finished basement with 2 bedrooms, full bathroom, TV room and a walk in closet. My prior floor was a subfloor with wall to wall carpeting but was destroyed by the town back flushing the sewer line into my bathroom. So I wanted to but down an easy but durable flooring along with something that I would be able to pull up if anything happened again. It just seemed like this was the perfected match! I had a problem trying to up load the photos Sorry
Old Orchard Beach, ME
They really look nice. Easy to work with. Wish I would have put them in basement years ago. Thanks
Allison, IA
From ordering with your truly professional customer service staff through quick delivery to the easy installation, I could not be happier with my decision to purchase this terrific product from your company.
Roselle, NJ
Love these carpet tiles.Very easy to install and I didn't have to take out all the furniture. Also they look very nice.
san francisco, CA
Carpet Flex arrived quickly. The end result turned out to be better than expected. It installed with ease and once the basement was completed everything looked really high end. The only drawback is the price, but I would not have it any other way.
Stamford, CT
Did my basement with carpet flex and tile flex. I like the carpet flex more then the tile, easy to install, I used a fine cutting tool to cut tiles. That was easier then using snips. The tan carpet tiles looked more gray then tan, but we are still happy with the results.
Baltimore, MD
these tiles were easy to install, look great, easy to vacuum. they are comfortable to walk on. not too bad price for the value of the carpet.
moscow, PA
I have always had a problem with a little water in the basement. This product seemed like the perfect solution, so if a little water came in there would be no damage to the carpet. Bought a sample to see how it would look. Liked it, so went ahead and ordered enought to do my basement. It looks fabulous. Love it. Great product.
Cincinnati, OH
We recently had the opportunity to install Greatmats carpet flex tiles in our basement. At first I wasn't sure they would work. We ordered a sample and decided to go ahead and purchase enough to do parts of the basement. After installation,my wife and I loved the way they looked in our basement.They were the perfect solution. The whole experience, from the ordering , to receiving,to installing was flawless. The ladies that I talked to during ordering were great and had excellent phone manners. A pleasure to deal with you. Thanks again for a great product and excellent service.
Schuler, AB
Great product. The tiles are expensive, and a challenge to cut and fit - but they are a fantastic solution to flooring a basement - particularly if there is a chance your floor could get wet.
Watertown, CT


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Trainer H. Graham Motion vanned Sanagas from his Fair Hill, Md., training base Thursday to Newark to be flown to California for the $250,000 Hollywood Turf Cup at Hollywood Park Saturday.
Sanagas, a 5-year-old German-bred gelding, will be accompanied by assistant Alice Clapham and stabled in Barn 53 North with trainer Gary Mandella.
Sanagas will be accompanied on the flight by Gypsy's Warning, defending champion in the $250,000 Matriarch Stakes here November 25. Motion said he will fly out two other stakes-winning females, Summer Soiree and Unbridled Humor, Tuesday to join Gypsy's Warning in the Matriarch.
Sanagas, to be ridden by Rajiv Maragh, drew the outside post in a field of seven in the Grade I Hollywood Turf Cup at 1 ½ miles. Sanagas comes off a victory in the Grade III Sycamore Stakes at Keeneland October 20, his sixth victory in nine starts.
"We felt the further he goes, the better, and this seemed like a good fit," said Motion of the decision to ship for the Turf Cup.
Gypsy's Warning, a 6-year-old mare, seeks to become the first repeat winner of the Matriarch since Flawlessly won three in a row from 1991-93.
She is winless in four starts this year since capturing the Matriarch.
"Gypsy's Warning has been a little unlucky this year," said Motion. "On more than one occasion, she has run on a soft turf course, which she does not care for. The record doesn't look too good but it's deceptive."
The South African-bred mare breezed at Fair Hill Wednesday and will run for the first time under the silks of Flaxman Holdings, which purchased her at the Keeneland November sale. Rafael Bejarano has the Matriarch call.
Motion said that Noble Damsel Stakes winner Unbridled Humor will breeze Friday and be ridden by Ramon Dominguez. He added that Summer Soiree, who shipped to California in August to win the Del Mar Oaks, will breeze Saturday and be ridden by Gabriel Saez.
A batch of $5,000 supplementary entries were received by the racing office Thursday for the Grade I Hollywood Derby and Matriarch and the Grade II Citation Handicap, $250,000 cornerstones of the Turf Festival next week.
Six 3-year-olds were supplemented to the Hollywood Derby November 27 at 1 ¼ miles. Three females were supplemented to the Matriarch at one mile on November 25. Two horses were supplemented to the Citation at 1 1/16 miles on November 26.
Supplemented to the Derby were Oak Tree Derby 1-2-3 finishers Ultimate Warrior, Venomous and Cozy Kitten, Kentucky-based Willcox Inn and New York-based Imagining and Casino Host.
Cozy Kitten worked five furlongs on turf in 1:05.80 here Thursday morning under jockey Alonso Quinonez to the satisfaction of Blake Heap, assistant to trainer Wesley Ward. "Just a maintenance work around the dogs," said Heap.
Willcox Inn, trained by Mike Stidham, won the Grade III Hawthorne Derby in his last start October 15 after capturing the Grade II American Derby in July.
Casino Host finished third in the Virginia Derby for trainer Chad Brown while Phipps Stable's Imagining has recorded a maiden win in four outings for trainer Shug McGaughey.
Never Retreat tops a trio of Matriarch supplementaries. The multiple stakes-winning 6-year-old millionairess comes off a sharp score in the Grade I First Lady Stakes at Keeneland October 8 for trainer Chris Block.
Also supplemented are Maryland-based Summer Soiree, winner of the Del Mar Oaks for trainer Graham Motion, and Madera Castana, a Chilean-bred mare based locally with Ruben Cardenas.
Assessment, runner-up in the Lure Stakes November 5 at Santa Anita for trainer Vann Belvoir, and War Element, fourth-place finisher in the same race for Carla Gaines, were supplemented to the Citation.
Slumber and Island Paradise, a pair of English candidates trained by Charles Hills for the Turf Festival next week, were two of five European arrivals Wednesday.
Foreman Geoff Snook and exercise rider Heather Johnson enjoyed the scenery at Hollywood Park Thursday as they awaited the Hills duo to clear quarantine Friday.
Juddmonte Farm's Slumber is scheduled to run in the Hollywood Derby November 27, while Island Paradise will vie in the $100,000 Miesque Stakes for 2-year-old fillies November 25.
"I started out with Barry Hills, Charles's father, in 1970," said Snook. "Charles took over for his father in August. He said the two horses left Lambourn, about 60 miles from London, and were driven over the channel to Amsterdam before the 10-hour flight to LAX.
Snook said he expected Slumber, an English-bred son of Cacique, to be forwardly placed. "In his last race, he made the lead," said Snook of a victory in the James Seymour Stakes at Newmarket at 1 ¼ miles October 29. "They tried him once this year at 1 ½ miles, and he didn't quite stay."
Island Paradise will make her first start for Hills. She was purchased by Canadian owner Richard Bonnycastle after her last race.
Trainer Mike Harrington said Thursday that the $750,000 CashCall Futurity December 17 could be the next start for Empire Way following an auspicious debut Sunday.
"I was pretty impressed," said Harrington from horseback on the training track after Empire Way rallied to win in 1:17.93 for 6 ½ furlongs.
"He didn't run very fast, but the way he did it was impressive.
"He had been working behind horses," added Harrington. "I knew he could run, but I didn't tell people he was going to win because he's a two-turn horse and I didn't know if he'd get up at 6 ½ furlongs. But things set up for him. Sometimes things just fall into place."
By Empire Maker out of the A.P. Indy mare Delta Princess, Empire Way is a full brother to Royal Delta, winner of the Breeders' Cup Ladies Classic and an overwhelming favorite to win the Eclipse Award as 3-year-old filly champion. Empire Way was purchased for $250,000 at the Fasig Tipton February sale for owner Heinz Steinmann.
Harrington also trains 2-year-old colt star Creative Cause, winner of the Norfolk Stakes and third-place finisher in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile. Harrington said he has earned a vacation for the rest of the year.
Empire Maker began a big day with Empire Way. He is also the sire of Charm the Maker, who won the $100,000 Sharp Cat Stakes for 2-year-old fillies and earned a probable return in the Hollywood Starlet Stakes December 10 for trainer Ron McAnally.
FINISH LINES—Hall of Fame trainer Ron McAnally, fresh off a victory in the Sharp Cat Stakes Sunday with Charm the Maker, worked two other stakes candidates on turf Thursday. Jockey Brice Blanc worked both Goldwaki four furlongs in 50 seconds for the Hollywood Turf Cup Saturday and Las Palmas Stakes winner All Star Heart five furlongs in 1:02.20 for the Matriarch Stakes November 25…Jose Valdivia, Jr. is leaving the local jockey colony to ride at Golden Gate Fields. Ray Harris, who also handles the book of Russell Baze, will take his calls… Garrett Gomez will be at Churchill Downs November 25 to ride Ruler On Ice in the Clark Handicap… Martin Garcia will ride double stakes winner Up In Time for trainer Simon Callaghan in the Matriarch…Slammer Time, winner of the 2010 California Cup Juvenile, is nearing a return to the races for trainer Gary Mandella after being sidelined for nearly a year. "He caught pneumonia after the CashCall Futurity," explained Mandella, who estimated the colt is about a month away from a return…Trainer Humberto Ascanio said that Fluke, winner of the 2009 Citation Handicap, should be ready for his first start since March around the end of the year. "He got a little crabby," explained Ascanio of the absence of the 6-year-old Brazilian-bred horse. He won the Grade I Kilroe Stakes at Santa Anita in his last outing.
Copyright © 2009-2014, Hollywood Park. All rights reserved.


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- Flat Rate Shipping. Any Size Order! -
- A Portion of Proceeds Benefit Chicago Bulls Athletics -
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This year, add something special to your holiday decorations. This fun Light-Up Snowman ornament will become the eye-catching star of your tree this year. Decked out with a black top hat and printed "Chicago Bulls" lettering and team logo, this festive ornament will add some cheer to any Bulls fan's holiday. When turned on, the multi-color rotating light will bring a smile to all Chicago fan's faces and brighten their yuletide season!
- High quality graphics
- Imported
- Made of durable plastic
- Measures 2.75" in height
- Multi-colored rotating light patterns when turned on
- Officially licensed NBA product
- Ready to hang
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Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.


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Hi Conroy. To answer your question, yes, I have done a few map commissions in the past. However at the moment I am working on a PhD and don't have very much time to devote to my map-making hobby. Thus unfortunately I am not currently able to take on any new commissions at this time. However I wish you all the best in finding a cartographer for you novel.
Thanks for your comment on my Eriond map Conroy.
Community Leader


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Hang tight!
Recipe by Pillsbury® Grands!®
"Turn leftover chicken into a tasty dinner in a family-pleasing casserole featuring Grands!® biscuits."
Watch video tips and tricks
1 (16.3 ounce) can
Pillsbury® Grands!® Homestyle refrigerated buttermilk biscuits
1/2 cup
Old El Paso® Thick 'n Chunky salsa
1 1/2 cups
cubed cooked chicken
1 1/2 cups
shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup
chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup
sliced ripe olives, drained
This is really good when you use leftover Salsa Chicken and monterey jack cheese. I like to serve this with little bowls of taco toppings, like chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, olives, chopped onion, sour cream and extra salsa.
Oh my, I did not care for this at all. The title is completely misleading. This is not a casserole. It is a pull apart bread with chicken and cheese on top. I found the combination to just be too odd to eat. I was trying to figure out how this would come together as something exceptional, but it is what the ingredients are. To top, my biscuits on the bottom browned way too much. I bought a rotisserie to use, which isn't cheap either. The salsa recommended also only comes in really large jars at my supermarket. Unless, you are looking for a bread and not a main dish I would skip recipe. I see it working as a side to a light soup maybe, but that is about it. I hope this doesn't get tossed, because no one seemed to like it. I think, because they just didn't know what it was. If it helps, this does not require any silverware to be consumed.
12 Ratings
My boyfriend and I loved it. Very easy to make, I would recommend adding the cheese at the half way mark. (cheese turns out a little well-done if you add it at the beginning). Very Tasty!
I really liked this. I did however, treat this as a bread with "stuff" on top rather than as a main dish. As a main dish for me, it is far too bready.I had this with a bowl or soup and enjoyed it a lot
My husband liked it so much, he reheats and has for breakfast. It has been a hit with everyone I''ve served it to.
I substituted diced green chilies for the green peppers and used shredded pepper jack cheese.
Made this for my parents one weekend when I came home from college. It was delicious and they loved it! However, I thought tossing the dough with salsa was unnecessary, as it added only a little flavor to the biscuits when the dish was done.
Made this tonight. We really enjoyed it! I did add extra chicken. Thanks Pillsbury for a great recipe!
This was very good! I doubled the recipe and put it in a larger pan. I agree with Tiffany to add the cheese at the half way mark. This reminded me of a deep dish Mexican style pizza. I served up large portions of this with a side salad! A very filling dinner!
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Grands!(R) Fiesta Chicken Casserole
Serving Size: 1/6 of a recipe
Servings Per Recipe: 6
Amount Per Serving
Calories: 446
Calories from Fat: 209
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All the game-day eats you need to crush the tailgate competition.
See how to make a quick-and-easy, creamy chicken casserole.
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A comforting combination of chicken, veggies, and creamy sauce.


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Main Content
John Elway put himself on the map as an NFL all-star and is one of the most widely regarded quarterbacks of his generation, with five Super Bowls appearances and six AFC Championship Games. His career with the Denver Broncos skyrocketed with "The Drive"—a last ditch, five-minute, 15-play, 98-yard touchdown drive in the 1987 AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns. This legendary play allowed his team to take home the title in overtime and pushed Elway's reputation into overdrive. Among Elway's innumerable career achievements are 51,475 passing yards, 300 passing touchdowns, 4,123 passing completions, two Super Bowl wins and an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004. Give a nod to the greats of Pro Football when you commemorate Elway's memorable playing career with the Denver Broncos in this Hall Of Fame Classic Player tee. It features Elway's name arched over his player number, his replica signature and the year he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame printed on the chest.
- 100% Cotton fabric
- Imported
- Officially licensed NFL product
- Screen print graphics
- Tagless collar
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Special event items are produced by manufacturers only after the outcome of a game or event. These are advanced sale items and will ship immediately after they are received in our warehouse.
Manufacturer direct items are shipped directly from the manufacturer. These items are not available for international or expedited shipping.
Customized items can be personalized with options such as your name, your favorite number, and/or designs. Some options may be limited by league rules.