Snow accumulations of up to 18-inches possible for Christmas

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WILLIAMS — The rain fell through the night and Williams was greeted by a thin veil of early morning fog to start the first day of winter. The rain is expected to continue through Friday turning to snow on Saturday. The current evaluation by NOAA is that Williams could be greeted by up to 18-inches of snow Christmas day. Snow may continue on Christmas with a possible half-inch of further accumulation during the day, clearing up by Sunday night.

Winds today will be up to 16-mph with gusts up to 24 dropping slightly overnight. Winds tomorrow will be up to 14-mph with gusts up to 21 building up to 21-mph winds Friday night. On Saturday winds are expected to remain up to 24-mph with gusts of 37-mph.

Christmas eve should be a great day for those with tickets on the Polar Express. A 90% chance of snow showers exists throughout the day. Seven- to eleven-inches of snow is possible by evening with another 3-to-7-inches possible overnight. Snow is possible Christmas day with a slight amount of accumulation. The snow will probably be a welcome sight for the reindeer at the Grand Canyon Deer Farm and the Wild Wonderland at Bearizona is a must see in the snow.Flagstaff can expect about the same weather with a slightly less snow accumulation over the same period. The new snow, however, should be great news for the skiers at the Snowbowl. They apparently are receiving snow already according to their web cam.

Ash Fork will be a player in the snow game with a possible 4-inches of snow over the same period. Winds will be about the same as Williams. Valle should receive about the same amount of snow as Ash Fork and about the same wind speeds.

The weather is still expected to clear up over Sunday night with temperatures returning to the mid-40s by Wednesday.

We continue to remind everyone to BE SAFE on the highways. Watch out for snow plows and slow down. Get off of the highway if you want to play in the snow. We highly recommend going to Flagstaff, Williams, Bellemont, Parks, Ash Fork, instead of taking an exit as you could get snowed in and stranded. Stopping at one of the safe cities and towns also offers the opportunity of hot coffee or cocoa to help you enjoy the experience.

If an OHV is on the holiday list, don’t forget the safety gear

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PHOENIX — Another year has passed and if a new off-highway vehicle (OHV) is in the cards this holiday season, the Arizona Game and Fish Department advises you to remember the wear the following equipment.

  1. A helmet. Whether riding in a side-by-side utility-type vehicle (UTV), all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or dirt bike, all riders younger than18 years old are legally required to wear a Department of Transportation-approved helmet. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders older than 18.
  2. Eye protection, such as riding goggles, is legally required for all riders if the OHV is not equipped with a windshield.
  3. Riding gloves should be worn at all times to protect your hands while riding and enhance your grip while driving.
  4. Wear proper clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt, pants and over-the-ankle boots.

Register your OHV and purchase an OHV Decal. All vehicles designed primarily for travel on unimproved terrain and weighing less than 1,800 pounds are required to have a $25 OHV decal to operate on public and state lands. License plates and decals are available at any Arizona Motor Vehicle Division location or at www.servicearizona.com.

Take a safety course. Safety courses teach new and veteran riders the techniques needed to safely operate and ride an OHV, including the importance of shifting their weight, maintaining control of the machine, evasive breaking and maneuvers. For information on where to take a course or to take one online, visit www.azgfd.com/Education/OHV.

Always remember to supervise children under 16 years old and check to ensure your child is riding an age-appropriate vehicle. Machines may be too large and powerful for a child to safely operate. Parents are ultimately responsible for their children’s safety.

Riders should only carry the number of passengers for which the machine is designed. One of the biggest causes of OHV-related injuries is riding with more than the recommended number of passengers. Proper riding techniques require operators to shift their weight and change position to keep control of the machine. Carrying a passenger can make riding difficult and change how the vehicle responds.

For additional OHV safety information, visit www.azgfd.gov/ohv.

New watercraft for Christmas?

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PHOENIX — Tis the season to head out on the water and if a boat, kayak or other personal watercraft is on your Christmas list this holiday season, the Arizona Game and Fish Department wants to make sure your inaugural voyage is a safe one.

Whether you’re planning to take a new watercraft out for some sightseeing or to do some fishing, all new and veteran watercraft users are encouraged to remember the following 10 tips to remain safe on the water.

Always wear a life jacket. Life jackets aren’t just a good idea, they are required by state law for anybody 12 years old and younger when the boat is underway. There must also be at least one life jacket available for everyone aboard.

Register your watercraft. Make sure the vessel’s registration is current before heading out on the water. It’s one of the most important boating requirements needed to operate a watercraft on Arizona waterways. The registration fee is determined by watercraft length and ranges from $20 to $66 for Arizona residents and $100 to $495 for non-residents. Those needing to renew their watercraft registration can do so online at www.azgfd.gov/boating.

Take a boating and watercraft safety course. Learn how to practice safe boating techniques and to respond in the event of an emergency by completing a hands-on safety course.

Learn and follow the “navigation rules of the road.” In Arizona, most citations are issued for navigation rule violations. Navigation rules and water markers such as buoys are in place to help avoid collisions on the water.

Research where you plan to take your watercraft. It’s always a great idea to learn everything you can about the waterway you’re heading off to before you get there. Call ahead and check maps to learn about underwater obstacles and shallow zones.

Make sure you have the proper supplies. Make sure there is plenty of drinking water, snacks and food aboard if the plan is to be on the water for extended periods of time. Also be sure to leave a float plan with family and friends, detailing where you’re going and when you plan to return; and to pack sunscreen, a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher and cell phone or marine radio.

Do not install or use unapproved lighting. Rope lighting, “party” lighting and various other types of decorative lighting may not meet U.S. Coast Guard certification requirements and could increase the likelihood of a collision. Regardless if the lighting was installed before the vessel was purchased, decorative lighting could violate U.S. Coast Guard rules.

Do not drink alcohol or use drugs while operating a watercraft. Just as it’s illegal to operate a vehicle on the roadway under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it’s equally illegal to do so on the water. Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents nationwide in 2014, according to the U.S. Coast Guard.

Cold-water immersion can be deadly so dress appropriately and if you fall overboard, climb back into or on top of the boat. If you cannot, stay near the vessel and use oars or anything floating nearby to help stay afloat.

Buy a fishing license. If fishing is even part of the day’s adventure, anyone 10 years of age and older dipping a line into the water must have a valid fishing license. General fishing licenses cost $37 for residents and $55 for non-residents per year. To purchase one and for information on various hunt and fish license combinations, visit www.azgfd.gov and click “Buy a License.”

Those needing to register their watercraft can save time by renewing online at www.azgfd.gov and clicking “Boat Renewals.” For more information on boating in Arizona, stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species (such as quagga mussels) or to sign up for a safety course, visit www.azgfd.gov/boating.

I-17 southbound reduced to one lane until Saturday north of Cordes Junction

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Southbound Interstate 17 will be reduced to one lane until Saturday, December 24, at Orme Road, between State Route 169 and State Route 69, as crews make critically needed repairs at the bridge, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

ADOT normally doesn’t perform work requiring lane restrictions over holiday weekends, but engineers have determined that these repairs, involving concrete on the bridge approach, must be performed immediately.

I-17 is narrowed to one lane between mileposts 270 and 269 approaching Cordes Junction. Northbound travel isn’t affected.

Southbound I-17 motorists should plan for delays, proceed through the work zone carefully and watch for construction personnel and equipment. While the work is scheduled to be completed on Saturday, bad weather can delay completion of projects.

Chance of rain all week with a snow likely Christmas eve

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WILLIAMS/FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff and Williams can expect about the same weather pattern over the Christmas holiday. Clouds are expected to blow in tonight and through tomorrow on 7-mph winds. Wednesday is expected to be partly sunny with a high near 50. The chance of precipitation in the form of rain starts Wednesday night. Rain and low temperatures overnight will cause icy conditions on roads and highways, so drivers should take caution.

ADOT reminds visitors and residents NOT to park along the highway to enjoy the snow. Take an exit and get off of the freeway if you want to check out the weather. Preferably at a safe location such as Bellemont, Flagstaff, Williams or some other area where you can park safely.

On Wednesday night there is a 30% chance of rain after 11 p.m. with a low of around 32 overnight. The winds are expected to be light, but any wind will make it feel colder.

On Thursday there is a 60% chance of rain with a high near 49 and winds of about 6-mph. The chance of rain continues overnight with a low of about 34 and winds calming.

Friday a 30% chance of showers is expected, but it should be partly sunny with temperatures in the mid-40s. Friday night there is a 20% chance of showers with a low around 33.

Saturday, Christmas Eve, is expected to be breezy, around 38-degrees with a chance of rain and snow. Williams may wake up to a white Christmas with snow likely Saturday night and a low temperature of 20-degrees. There is a slight chance of continuing snow on Christmas day and continuing throughout the night. The high will be near 33 dropping to 17 overnight. The chance of building a snowperson is slight.

This weather pattern should clear up Monday with temperatures remaining in the mid-30s through Tuesday during the day and dropping to the low-20s overnight.

Have fun in the snow, but don’t park along highways to play

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PHOENIX – Snow in Arizona’s high country is a magnet for desert dwellers looking to ski, sled, make snowmen and have snowball fights.

Too often, however, a vehicle full of people heading to play in the snow winds up parked on the shoulder of a state highway or even Interstate 17 rather than pulled safely into a designated parking area well off the road. This creates a hazard for more than just the occupants.

“It’s dangerous for the driver who stops on the highway and for other drivers who might be distracted by your vehicle. It’s also dangerous for first responders who may need access to the shoulder to help someone,” said Audra Merrick, district engineer for the Arizona Department of Transportation’s North Central District. “As tempting as it can be, never stop along the highway to play in snow.”

With snow in the forecast this weekend for the Flagstaff area, ADOT reminds those heading to sled and throw snowballs that highway shoulders are for emergencies and that parking on them to play in the snow is hazardous in a number of ways:

Other drivers may be distracted by your vehicle.
Other drivers may pull over as well to play in the snow, compounding the problem.
Your vehicle may interfere with first responders who need to use the shoulder.
Plows can throw snow and ice far off highways.
It’s much safer to re-enter highways from on-ramps and other designated entrances.

These dangers apply along highways other than interstates, including US 180 northwest of Flagstaff, where those from lower elevations often flock after it snows. Those who park on highway shoulders to play, even in areas where traffic may seem light, are endangering themselves and others. Locations of designated snow-play areas around Flagstaff are available at flagstaffarizona.org (click the Winter Snow Play link) or by calling 1-844-256-SNOW.

Those heading to enjoy winter in Arizona’s high country should learn how to prepare for extended time in cold, snow and ice, as well as how to be ready for potentially harsh driving conditions, by visiting azdot.gov/KnowSnow.

ADOT’s suggestions of items to have in a vehicle include warm clothing and blankets, a fully charged mobile phone and charger, a flashlight with extra batteries, drinking water, healthy snacks, a first-aid kit and necessary medications. Get plenty of rest, plan your route and take frequent breaks from driving.

Make sure your gas tank is at least half to three-quarters full at all times, and ensure that your wipers, window defroster, headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals work. Snow tires, chains or studded tires may be required depending on the conditions.

Wherever they are traveling in Arizona, drivers need to be prepared for possible delays caused by crashes or heavy traffic. Another cause of congestion during the winter is the popularity of snow-play areas. Those playing in the snow along US 180, for example, may need 90 minutes or more to get back to Flagstaff at day’s end, especially after it snows and over holiday weekends.

“It’s very important that drivers know what they’re heading into when they come up to play in the snow,” Merrick said. “Our crews are committed to keeping the highways open and safe, but weather, road conditions and traffic can change quickly, so leave prepared.”

Houdini Inc. Recalls Blue Cheese Savory Twists, 7 Oz Box Because of Possible Health Risk

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Houdini Inc. of Fullerton, California is recalling limited quantities of Blue Cheese Savory Twists, 7 oz box after the FDA found traces of Salmonella at the manufacturing facility of the ingredient supplier for the powdered buttermilk used to make the Blue Cheese seasoning in these products.  Although no pathogenic bacteria have been found in the powdered products supplied to our Savory Twist supplier by the ingredient manufacturer, nor in any of the Blue Cheese Savory Twists themselves, we have decided out of an abundance of caution to recall products produced from the specific lots purchased from this ingredient supplier.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

A limited quantity of products was distributed nationwide to consumers through Houdini Inc.’s direct to consumer division Wine Country Gift Baskets (catalog / internet) and Houdini Inc’s wholesale division.

Affected product includes the following details:

Gift Basket Name: Lot code number:
Wine Country Gift Baskets:
Wine Trio LC448865
Napa & Sonoma Valley Exclusive LC449695
Bodega de San Antonio Sangria Tradicional LC446420
California Cabernet and Chardonnay Gift LC451463
Cakebread Cellars Napa Valley Duet LC450020
Placeholder Six Bottle WOM Wines Collection    LC448789
The Ultimate Wine and Champagne Collection  LC448866
Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Collection LC449703
The Classic LC444761, LC446625, LC446626, LC451389
Lasting Impression LC447394, LC452566
Wine Country Extravaganza LC445632
Grgich Hills Napa Valley Selection LC444483
Gift Basket Name: Lot code number:
Vintners Path Merlot Season’s Greetings LC444763
Stag’s Leap Winery Collection LC449624
Vintners Path Cabernet Season’s Greetings LC445181
Houdini Napa Valley Collection LC445631
Vintners Path Chardonnay  Season’s Greetings  LC444766
Alfasi Cabernet Kosher Selection LC444152
Alfasi Kosher Trio LC446250
Alfasi Chardonnay Kosher Selection LC444153
Napa and Sonoma Duet LC448370
California Wine Crate LC450022
The Classic LC451792, LC454676
TJX Companies:
Metal Basket with Handles LC449614
Metal Basket with Leather Handles LC446548, LC446549, LC446550
Sam’s Club:
The Executive LC442525, LC442751, LC443675
Costco Southeast Region:
Burgundy and Bronze Metal Basket LC448217, LC448218, LC448219, LC50256, LC52057, LC50258
Costco Northeast Region:
Houdini Fabric basket LC448981
Costco Midwest Region:
Wooden Centerpiece LC448210
Costco.com:
Tis The Season LC445630
Sweets For The Season LC446542

Houdini Inc. is committed to providing only the highest quality of product and is taking this action out of an abundance of caution in interest of consumer protection.

This recall only affects the 7oz Blue Cheese Savory Twist in gift baskets shipped or sold in stores from September 1, 2016 to December 12, 2016. There is no issue with any of the other food products in the gift basket.

Houdini Inc. has not experienced any problems or complaints about this product. To date, no injuries or illnesses have been reported. If you have any 7 oz Blue Cheese Savory Twists remaining, please discard them; do not consume. If you gave the product to someone, please let them know to discard the product. This is a voluntary recall as a precautionary measure. This voluntary recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

If you have any questions concerning this recall, please contact Houdini Customer Care at 866-712-5910 between the hours of 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM PST Monday – Friday.

Sample of lot code label, found on the bottom of the basket, a white label with black printing:

Pictures of the external packaging for the Blue Cheese Savory twists. The product was packaged in a variety of colors. Red Package, Copper Package, Green Package

Internal Package:  If your foil package does NOT have one of the two lot codes listed below printed on the pouch, your item is not part of this recall.

Internal Package Code Date:

1831602 XX (XX=last 2 digits refer to specific packaging machine)

2431602 XX (XX=last 2 digits refer to specific packaging machine)

Williams-Sonoma Announces the Voluntary Recall of Meyer Lemon Poppy Quick Bread

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Williams-Sonoma of San Francisco, CA is voluntarily recalling limited quantities of WILLIAMS-SONOMA MEYER LEMON POPPY SEED QUICK BREAD, as it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. The ingredient supplier has issued a recall of the bulk milk powder. Although no pathogenic bacteria have been found in the powdered milk product supplied in Williams-Sonoma’s product, we have decided out of an abundance of caution to recall the product produced from the specific lot received from our ingredient supplier.

Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis.

The affected Williams-Sonoma Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Quick Bread was shipped to Williams-Sonoma retail stores nationwide from August 2016-present. The following product code is affected by the recall:

Williams-Sonoma Meyer Lemon Poppy Seed Quick Bread
NET WT. 1 LB. 2 OZ
Packaged in a yellow paper bag
SKU 7839186 (located on price sticker)
BEST BY: JAN2018 02118:A1 OR JAN2018 02018:A1 (located on the back flap)

Consumers who have purchased Williams-Sonoma Meyer Lemon Poppy Quick Bread are urged to discontinue use and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company by email at customerservice@williams-sonoma.com or phone at 1-844-526-4666, 7am-midnight ET daily.

A disappointing snowfall for Williams

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WILLIAMS — After the heavy rainfall throughout the day yesterday, Williams was expecting a little more snowfall than they woke up to. For the most part it was simply icy roads and slippery sidewalks and cold.

The weather kept the Williams Fire Department awake a better part of the night as they stood by an arching transformer to prevent a catastrophic fire. Power failed in the area of Edison and fluctuated throughout the City of Williams through the night.

The Super-8 motel reported a power outage this morning. The Williams Police Department is investigating other power outages in the area of Bearizona. Bearizona could not be contacted for confirmation. Sherwood Forest is out of power. Some emergency services are reporting problems with their repeater on Mingus Mountain.

Thankfully there have not been any major incidents reported on the freeway.

The Boxcar Bridge, in Williams, was able to withstand the snowfall of last night.

While Williams proper may have received a little snow, the outlying areas usually experience more snow. There may be the predicted two-inches of snow out Perkinsville Road, on Highway 64 and other areas.The next predicted chance of snow, according to the long range forecast, will be Friday with a slight chance predicted.

As winter storm intensifies, be prepared for rain, wind and snow

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PHOENIX — A winter storm packing rain, wind and, later, the possibility of light snow and ice in the high country is all the more reason for Arizonans to drive with care and adjust their speed to conditions.

While much of the state is expected to see rain Friday, the forecast for many areas also calls for sustained winds of between 30 and 40 mph and even stronger gusts. Beginning Friday night, a cold front will lower snow levels to around 5,000 feet and drop temperatures, meaning drivers in Arizona’s high country should be prepared for the possibility of light snow accumulating as well as ice on the road.

The Arizona Department of Transportation’s nearly 200 snowplows and 400 certified snowplow drivers are ready to deal with snow and ice, and ADOT’s website offers tips for driving in the rain, in wind that reduces visibility and around snow and ice.

Here are some of them:

  1. Slow down and be aware of the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.
  2. Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and the one in front of you. This helps prevent sudden braking, which can cause you to slide on wet or icy pavement.
  3. Before you drive, inspect your windshield wipers, and replace them if necessary.
  4. Turn on your headlights while driving in bad weather.
  5. If you’re planning to drive in the high country, consult ADOT’s Know Snow winter-driving tips at azdot.gov/KnowSnow. These start with wearing warm clothing, having a fully charged cellphone and making sure your tank is at least half full at all times.

For the most current information about highway conditions and restrictions statewide, visit ADOT’s Travel Information Site at az511.gov, follow us on Twitter (@ArizonaDOT) or call 511.