Tag Archives: Flagstaff

Great spring fishing in northern Arizona expected for Memorial Day weekend

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WILLIAMS – Now is the time to get the tackle box ready, grab the fishing rods, and explore northern Arizona for some spring fishing.
Here are some updates on fish stocking activities in this region:
  • About 9,000 rainbow trout, or around 5,000 pounds, were recently stocked in Ashurst Lake. Folks fishing at Ashurst Lake started catching fish shortly after stocking.  They were using small spinners such as rooster tails and small spoons.
  • Kaibab Lake, north of Williams, will receive a similar load of fish. About 9,000 fish measuring up to 15 inches.
  • Trout stocked in Lower Lake Mary during March and April were up to 15 inches long.
  • Catfish were dropped recently into City Reservoir in Williams and Frances Short Pond in Flagstaff. Chunks of hot dogs make great catfish bait.
“We have so much water in northern Arizona this year, we are trying to get fish into as many lakes as we can,” said Chuck Benedict, a fish biologist at AZGFD. “We want to encourage people to come up Memorial Day weekend, enjoy our great weather and fish.  Typically Flagstaff and Williams are great for trout in the spring, and in reality, bass, pike, catfish, and crappie fishing are the best during the summer.”
Some tips to remember before heading out to fish:
  • Licenses now include trout and two-pole privileges (no separate stamps needed) and costs $37 for residents and $55 for nonresidents. The license is now valid for one year from the day you buy it — not just for the calendar year.
  • Anyone 10 years and older will need a fishing license. Youth licenses only cost $5 and are available for youth ages 10-17.
  • Review the 2017 Arizona Fishing Regulations — they are available online, or at most license dealers as a booklet that you can throw in your tackle box. The regulations have all the information you need to fish in Arizona.
  • Some lakes have special restrictions or regulations: catch-and-release only, daily limits, or the type of bait allowed.
  • Do not transport live fish or bait. Illegal stocking is a big problem and impacts the department’s efforts to manage the state’s fisheries. In some cases, fish like northern pike and bass have been illegally stocked and have had detrimental impacts to trout fishing and native fish populations.
Locations of these waters:
  • Frances Short Pond is located just northwest of downtown Flagstaff and is a great place to walk or ride a bike and try your luck.
  • Lower Lake Mary is about 8 miles from Flagstaff on Forest Road 3; Ashurst is about 12 miles down the road from Lower Mary.
  • Kaibab Lake is near Williams and off Highway 64, just north of Interstate 40.
  • City Reservoir is just south of Williams.

County and NARBHA Institute host innovative Justice Summit

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County, led by Chairwoman Liz Archuleta, and the NARBHA Institute hosted the Justice Summit Monday, May 15. The Summit brought together leaders from across the U.S. to elevate awareness of criminal justice issues and innovate discussion.

Over 200 participants representing government agencies, non-profit organizations and the private sector attended the day long summit. Speakers and panelists led discussions elevating justice-related best practices and inspired interdisciplinary innovation.

“I’m honored that experts and researchers in criminal justice and mental health from across the country attended today’s summit,” said Chairwoman Archuleta. “The speakers provided excellent learning opportunities that will shape the County’s vision. Coconino County is a nationally recognized leader for our criminal justice policies. We will take the robust ideas from the summit and continue to institute innovative and data driven initiatives that will have positive outcomes for our communities.”

Nationally renowned speakers headlined the Summit including, Miami-Dade County Judge Steve Leifman who gave a presentation regarding mental illness in jails. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sally Heyman presented on local solutions to justice reform. Speakers and panelists also included representatives from Harvard Law School, the Columbia University Center for Justice and northern Arizona.

During the final panel of the summit, participants were given a unique opportunity to collaborate and identify ways they could inspire local action in their communities.

“We are delighted to partner with Coconino County to host the Justice Summit,” said Mary Jo Gregory, President and CEO, The NARBHA Institute. “The Summit enabled leaders from throughout northern Arizona to hear from national experts on criminal justice and mental illness and engage in robust discussions with their peers. We greatly valued the dialogue.”

The NARBHA Institute is the nonprofit, public-charity partner in Health Choice Integrated Care, the Integrated Regional Behavioral Health Authority (RBHA) for Northern Arizona. Founded in 1967, it is the new name of the Northern Arizona Regional Behavioral Health Authority.

“Today’s summit was an exciting step forward for making our community healthier and safer,” said Superior Court Judge Dan Slayton. “Collaborative efforts such as this and our Criminal Justice Coordinating Council are the reason why we are increasingly recognized as one of the most innovative justice systems in the nation.”

Justice Reform is one of five top strategic goals adopted by the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. In the next year, the County will be evaluating existing programs and policies and the impact of those programs on people and the system.

County prepares for 5th annual Veterans Stand Down

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FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County, in conjunction with area veteran’s advocate groups, will host the 5th Annual Lance Davison Memorial High Country Stand Down. The event connects homeless veterans and their families with the services they need.

The Stand Down will be from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, May 19, at the Flagstaff Armory, 320 N Thorpe Road Flagstaff. Hundreds of northern Arizona homeless and at-risk veterans are expected to attend. Veterans will have access hot meals, hygiene kits, clothing, surplus, legal assistance, employment services, dental, vision and medical assistance, haircuts, Veterans’ Court and Notary services, information on disability and survivor benefits, and more.

“We greatly value our returning veterans from all wars and think they should have access to help and the opportunity to truly stand down,” said District 4 County Supervisor Jim Parks, whose office is helping to coordinate the event. “It is an honor, as a member of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, to work with so many dedicated organizations helping connect veterans to the services they need.”

Services and logistical support offered by Coconino County, Flagstaff Courts, Coconino County Superior Court, Williams Courts, Coconino County Public Health Services District, Arizona StandDown Alliance, Arizona Coalition to End Homelessness, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Arizona Department of Economic Security, Veterans Administration, the Hopi Tribe, Navajo Nation and many others. This year, food will be provided by Sodexo, coffee provided by Starbucks and beverages provided by Nackard Pepsi.

The public is also invited to attend the Armed Forces Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 20, in Downtown Flagstaff.

The High Country Stand Down was started by the local veterans’ community and retired Coconino County Supervisor Mandy Metzger over five years ago.

Don’t Fall Victim to Phone Scammer Claiming to be Law Enforcement Officer

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FLAGSTAFF – The Sheriff’s Office is investigating reports of telephone scams in which the scammer is using the names of known law enforcement personnel to try to legitimize his scam. The callers use different bullying techniques such claiming your have an outstanding warrant or citation or court date. They also may use scare tactics such as claiming to send an officer to your home to arrest you if you do not pay immediately.

One of the names being used fraudulently is that of our Detention Commander Matt Figueroa. Remember, legitimate law enforcement will never call demanding money/payments be made through pre-paid credit cards, money wire transfers or the like.

Don’t fall victim to the bullying techniques of these scammers. File a police report by contacting our Dispatch Center at (928) 774-4523, option 1. Learn more about preventing yourself from becoming a victim to these kinds of scams on our webpage: http://www.coconino.az.gov/356/Fraud-Awareness.

Northern Arizona federal land managers invite public to community conversation event

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FLAGSTAFF – Federal land managers with the Forest Service, National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management invite the public to attend a community conversation in May as part of an ongoing effort to connect with the public and hear first-hand what people value about their public lands.

In partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona, this event will be held in Flagstaff in the Branigar Hall at the Museum of Northern Arizona from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, May 25. Seating is limited to 60-70 people at this free community event, so please RSVP by calling (928) 774-5213 or visit www.musnaz.org.

The following federal land managers will be in attendance and look forward to interacting with the public:

– Coconino National Forest Supervisor Laura Jo West,
– Kaibab National Forest Supervisor Heather Provencio,
– Flagstaff Area National Monuments Superintendent Kayci Cook Collins,
– Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Chris Lehnertz, and
– BLM Phoenix District Manager Leon Thomas.

Speakers will provide introductory remarks, move to “talking circles” to interact and have conversations with community members, and conclude by reporting out and providing closing remarks.

This is a chance for the public to meet face-to-face with the leaders of organizations that manage federal lands in northern Arizona. The public is invited to attend this special event and share their thoughts on what they value about public lands now and into the future.

Hiker rescued from Mt. Elden in winter conditions

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FLAGSTAFF – On May 9th at 9:00 am, The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Unit responded to a report of a hypothermic adult male hiker on top of Mt. Elden. The weather at the time was moderate to heavy snow with approximately 3-5 inches of snow on the ground.

The US Forest Service was contacted by the Sheriff’s Office to determine if the Elden Lookout Tower was staffed. It was determined that a lookout was at the tower and he was asked to look for the hiker near the base of the tower. The lookout located the hiker and assisted him to shelter while waiting for search and rescue to arrive.

Upon search and rescue arrival the hiker was warming up at the lookout tower and his condition was improving. Ultimately the hiker received a ride home from friends who had also responded to assist.

The hiker, a 30-year-old male resident of Flagstaff had gone for a day hike. He had planned to hike to the top of Mt. Elden and arrive there by a certain time to qualify for a free pizza sponsored by a local business. The hiker was either unaware of the weather forecast or disregarded the forecast and set off ill prepared wearing shorts and light clothing.

The Search and Rescue Unit would like to remind hikers that spring weather in Northern Arizona can change rapidly. Hikers should familiarize themselves with the weather forecast prior to setting out for a hike. Hikers should also carry the “Ten Essentials” which include water, food, extra warm clothing, navigation equipment,
headlamp/flashlight, first aid kit, shelter material (space blanket or large leaf bag), fire starting kit, pocket knife/multi-tool, and signaling equipment (whistle and mirror).

Carrying a cell phone is also a good idea although there are still locations in Coconino County that do not have cellular service. Hikers should always leave a detailed itinerary for their hike with a trusted person in case they do not return as expected.

Board of Supervisors adopt “Ban the Box” Resolution

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved the “Ban the Box” Resolution (2017 – 29) in a special session this week. The County will now adopt and implement policies supporting the employment of rehabilitated individuals with criminal records.

County Human Resources (HR) will no longer require disclosure of prior criminal history on initial job applications. HR will also determine which positions will continue to require background checks due to their work with vulnerable populations or the safety-sensitive nature of the positions.

“This resolution is a significant step in criminal justice reform,” said Chairwoman of the Board of Supervisors Liz Archuleta. “It demonstrates Coconino County is an organization that values the talents and skills all potential employees bring including those who have made mistakes in the past and completed their sentences. We are proud to be part of a national effort with other government agencies and high profile businesses that have taken similar action to the Board today. I hope this sets the tone for other counties and organizations in Arizona and in the Country to follow suit.”

The national campaign to Ban the Box started in 2004. It is estimated that nearly 70 million, or 1 in 3 adult Americans have a criminal history and struggle finding employment after incarceration. Per the Ban the Box campaign, over 45 cities and counties have removed the question regarding conviction history from their employment applications.

The County will also actively encourage rehabilitated individuals with criminal records to apply for employment by engaging community partners such as treatment providers, correctional facilities reentry specialists and organizations assisting individuals in obtaining employment.

Increase in pertussis (whooping cough) reported in Coconino County

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FLAGSTAFF – The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) has confirmed an increase in pertussis (whooping cough) illness in Coconino County. CCPHSD is reminding individuals of the importance of vaccinations for both children and adults.

Early symptoms of pertussis are mild and cold-like, including runny nose, sneezing and coughing that becomes more persistent. Pertussis is easily spread when an infected person coughs. It can cause spells of violent coughing and gasping for breath in young children and can last weeks. Children often make a “whooping” noise when they breathe. This disease is most serious for babies under one year old, immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women.

Adults who get pertussis often have a cough, but don’t “whoop”. Unfortunately, many adults with pertussis are not treated and pass this disease on to others, possibly young children. Pertussis is easily spread from person to person. Transmission usually occurs by sharing close breathing space with an infected individual that is coughing or sneezing.

Any adults or children who have a cough that has lasted for over 14 days should be evaluated by their health care provider, especially if the illness includes coughing fits, vomiting after coughing, or whooping. Antibiotics are available to treat the infection and prevent further spreads of the disease.

Immunization is extremely important for the prevention and control of pertussis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and acellular pertussis) vaccine for infants and children through age 6. Tdap vaccinations, which contain protection against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, are recommended for preteens, teens and adults and should be given to 7 – 10 year olds who are not fully vaccinated against the illness. Pertussis vaccinations are required by the State of Arizona for school attendance. Please visit https://www.cdc.gov/pertussis/about/ for more information.

Pregnant women are encouraged to get Tdap with every pregnancy during weeks 27-36 regardless of previous vaccinations to provide optimal protection to the infant.

Adults who have close contact with infants (parents, grandparents, childcare providers and healthcare providers) should get a dose of Tdap. Getting vaccinated with Tdap – at least two weeks before coming into close contact with an infant – is especially important for families with, and caregivers of, new infants.

Vaccinations are available from healthcare providers or the Coconino County Public Health Services District Clinic, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff. Call the CCPHSD Clinic at 928.679.7222 for an appointment or for more information.

Lance Davison Memorial High Country Stand Down May 19

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Editorial by Supervisor Jim Parks

The great philosopher Plato said, “Only the dead have seen the end of war.”

Unfortunately, centuries later, this statement still holds true. Accessing basic human services can be extremely difficult for returning veterans, especially those who suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the effects of Traumatic Brain Injury.

The National Homeless Veterans Association estimates there are 1.4 million homeless and at-risk veterans currently in the U.S.

These veterans are a part of our community—Our friends, our family and our neighbors. Connecting homeless and at—risk veterans and their families with the services they need is a top priority.

This is one of the many reasons I’m proud to be a part of a large coalition of local public and private sector organizations that are organizing the 5th Annual Lance Davison Memorial High Country Stand Down. This year’s Stand Down will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday May 19 at the Flagstaff Armory.

The local coalition of heroes, in coordination with the Arizona Stand Down Alliance, works all year arranging services, planning logistics and coordinating volunteers for the event day. Hundreds of veterans from across northern Arizona are expected to attend.

During this event, veterans will be offered hot meals, hygiene kits, clothing, surplus, legal assistance, employment services, dental, vision and medical assistance, haircuts, Veterans’ Court and Notary services, and information on disability and survivor benefits.

The Lance Davison Memorial High Country Stand Down began over five years ago by the local veterans’ community and retired Coconino County Supervisor Mandy Metzger. They started the High Country Stand Down because they wanted to give back to those who fought for our nation.

The term “Stand Down” is used in the United States military to denote a time when military actions are temporarily halted to rearm, reassess, and renew the troops and the terms of engagement in the battle at hand.

I greatly value our returning soldiers and think they should have access to help and the opportunity to truly stand down. As a community, it is imperative we come together and support those who sacrificed their lives in defense of our freedom.

It is an honor, as a member of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, to help bridge the gap between veterans and the services they need during this celebration of their service. Please help me spread the word to veterans, their families and in your communities about the Lance Davison High Country Stand Down on May 19.

Page Unified School District seeking Governing Board applicants

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Risha VanderWey is seeking applicants for appointment to the Page Unified School District Governing Board. Effective May 4, one seat became vacant due to the resignation of Irene Jones.

Applicants must be Arizona registered voters and residents of the school district for at least one year prior to the date of appointment. Applicants or their spouses can’t be an employee of the district.

Application information:
· Download the application here http://www.coconino.az.gov/schoolboardapplication
· Deadline to submit is 5 p.m., Tuesday, May 30.
· Submit by email rvanderwey@coconino.az.gov (Live signature original required)
· Submit by fax 928-526-1469 (Live signature original required)
· Mail/drop off Coconino County School Superintendent, 2384 N Steves Blvd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

An advisory committee, consisting of district residents and a current board member will be assembled to conduct interviews and advise Superintendent VanderWey on the appointments.

For more information, please call the Office of the Coconino County School Superintendent at 928-679-8070 or e-mail: rvanderwey@coconino.az.gov.