Category Archives: Amusement

Route 66 On-The-Air again

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Route 66 is on the air.

FLAGSTAFF — Once again the amateur radio operators along Route 66 take to the air waves for the annual Route 66 On-The-Air event. Amateur radio operators, also known as “Hams,” will try to make contacts with other amateur operators from around the world. The event runs from 5 p.m. this Friday, September 11 until 3 p.m. Sunday, September 20 MST.

Glen Davis, KG7YDJ, on the air in Bellemont in 2019.

Amateur radio operators conduct contests and events throughout the year to test equipment by trying to make as many contacts as possible in a specified amount of time. Operators who make contact with all of the Route 66 stations can receive a “QSL” card from each. When they are put together, they make a map of Route 66.

Ron Gerlack and Andrew Gissel WA7DPS work Route 66 On-The-Air in Bellemont last year.

Some of the stations are stationary at the homes of various amateur radio operators and some are rovers that go to different places along Route 66. In the Flagstaff area, Ron Gerlack KG7OH of the Northern Arizona DX Association—the amateur radio club that works the event—takes the Coconino Amateur Radio Club trailer with various amateur radio equipment to various locations along Route 66. The call sign for this roaming station is W6T.

In the past, Ron has set up at Williams, Bellemont, the Grand Canyon Caverns, Twin Arrows, Seligman and a number of other places. This year he plans to set up at Bellemont, again, and along the “S” curve in Parks, Arizona.

At Twin Arrows in 2018.

Coconino County Fair modified due to COVID-19

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FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Parks and Recreation is modifying the 71st Coconino County Fair due to COVID-19 concerns. This decision was reached after months of deliberation, research and consultation with local health officials and the Board of Supervisors. Several county fairs in Arizona have cancelled their events this year due to COVID-19 safety concerns.

During the June 2 meeting, the Board of Supervisors supported a modified event that will incorporate measures to focus on 4-H youth member exhibits, the livestock auction, and online or virtual ways to engage the community in lieu of an in-person event at Fort Tuthill County Park. The safety and health of attendees, exhibitors and staff are very important to the County, as is continued support to area youth with their 4-H and livestock projects.

The Coconino County Fair is held every year over the Labor Day weekend at Fort Tuthill County Park fairgrounds with over 40,000 people attending the event who travel from across the county and the state, making it the largest event in Northern Arizona. The event regularly features a carnival with amusement rides, food and amusement vendors, and live entertainment. The County decided to support a modified event this year because of the event’s large attendance and the distance people travel.

“The Coconino County Fair is a long-standing tradition that residents and visitors look forward to all year. We are excited about the possibilities to come out of the difficult decision to modify this year’s event to focus on the 4-H exhibitors and junior livestock auction,” stated Coconino County Chairwoman Liz Archuleta. “This is an opportunity for innovative thinking, and we can’t wait to see what the Parks and Recreation Department plans for the 2020 Coconino County Fair.”

Planning is currently underway for what components make up a modified county fair. Coconino County Parks & Recreation is asking the public to submit ideas about a modified County Fair at http://www.CoconinoCountyFair.com.

AZGFD creates web page to bring outdoor enthusiasts latest updates

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department is committed to staying connected with its customers and providing exceptional service, while protecting everyone’s health and safety.

Get the latest information about changes to processes and procedures, and review frequently asked questions, by visiting the department’s new web page: www.azgfd.com/agency/covid-19-related-updates/.

In the meantime, all seven department offices statewide are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday (except holidays). Customers also can call the department’s main number at (602) 942-3000, or email customerservice@azgfd.gov.

Customers are reminded they can conduct most department business online by visiting www.azgfd.gov.

Leftover elk permit-tags remain only for “low density” hunt

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PHOENIX — The Arizona Game and Fish Department’s random draw for 2020 elk hunts has been over for weeks, and all leftover permit-tags are gone — with one exception.

More than 600 hunt permit-tags remain available for the minimal occurrence zone/low-density hunt in game management units 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B. There are two ways that hunters can purchase these leftovers on a first-come, first-served basis:

By mail: The preferred method would be to mail a paper application addressed to: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Draw/First Come, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086. Note: There is no “mini” draw. Allow 10 to 15 days to receive a permit-tag by mail.
In person: Applications will be accepted in person beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 30, at any of the department’s regional offices.

Before mailing that application, or venturing out to a department office, hunters are reminded that these four units combined have an extremely low-density elk population of less than 50 animals. The department is specifically managing these units for wildlife values other than elk, and an established population is not desirable. The intent of this particular hunt (Hunt No. 3799) is to eliminate this elk population.

Those who purchase one of these permit-tags should be aware that because of extremely low densities, hunt success likely will be less than 5 percent. Only those who did not receive a permit-tag in the random draw may buy one of these permit-tags. Bonus points are not affected when purchasing a permit-tag through the first-come, first-served process.

The cost of a permit-tag is $48, which includes a $13 non-refundable application fee. A non-resident hunt permit-tag is $50, which includes a $15 non-refundable application fee. The hunt dates are April 15-Oct. 8, and Oct. 23-Dec. 31, 2020. A bull or cow elk may be harvested.

County Board of Supervisors issue statement to close Grand Canyon National Park

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FLAGSTAFF — The following is a statement from the Coconino County Board of Supervisors regarding the closing of the Grand Canyon National Park.

“For the safety and health of Coconino County healthcare providers, residents and visitors, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors strongly urge Department of Interior Secretary David Bernhardt to close Grand Canyon National Park due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Board also calls on local, state and federal officials to join the Board in calling for the closure of the park.

“The Grand Canyon is the crown jewel of parks across the County and country. However, it is important that the park adheres to proven guidance to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing measures in response to pandemics work. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, closures aimed to reduce the spread of infection have been proven to be extremely effective. Keeping the park open and allowing travelers from all over the world to come here and risk spreading COVID-19 is an unnecessary risk.

Locally elected officials know their communities and how best to look out for the public health of the people they serve. Leaders in Washington D.C. should heed, and seek out, the advice of, local leaders for the safety of Coconino County, the state and the nation.”

Leftover hunt permit-tags available for 2020 elk hunts

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PHOENIX — Arizona hunters still have an opportunity to receive a hunt permit-tag for select 2020 elk hunts.

There are 824 leftover hunt permit-tags — 677 for the minimal occurrence zone/low density (general) hunt in game management units 12A, 12B, 13A and 13B. All remaining hunt permit-tags will be available for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis as follows:

By mail: Paper applications will be accepted beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 23, and must be addressed to: Arizona Game and Fish Department, Attn.: Draw/First Come, 5000 W. Carefree Highway, Phoenix, AZ 85086. Note: There is no “mini” draw. Allow 10 to 15 business days to receive a hunt permit-tag by mail.
In person: If any leftover hunt permit-tags remain, they will be available for purchase beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, March 30, at any of the department’s regional offices statewide.

For a list of leftover hunt permit-tags, visit www.azgfd.com/Hunting/Draw/.

Some of the leftover hunt permit-tags are for Hopi hunt open areas and are available to everyone, both tribal members and non-tribal members, through the first-come, first-served process.

A number of leftover hunt permit-tags remain for military hunts at Camp Navajo, for those who qualify. For more information, visit dema.az.gov/army-national-guard/camp-navajo/garrison-operations/camp-navajo-hunting-information.

For more information, including license and hunt permit-tag requirements, view the “2020 Pronghorn, Elk and Raptor Capture Hunt Draw Information” booklet online, or call (602) 942-3000.

Summer ramada reservations available for County parks

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FLAGSTAFF – Coconino County Parks and Recreation will begin accepting summer ramada reservations on February 18, 2020. There are 11 ramadas at four County parks available for rent.

Ramadas can be used to host parties, reunions get-togethers and other events. They are available for rent seven days a week, for half or full days throughout the year, including holidays. Reserving a ramada for a party or special occasion will guarantee space and ensure utilities are active.

Customers may reserve a ramada online by going to Coconino.az.gov/Parks/Ramadas or by going to the Parks and Recreation Administration Office located at Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ. Regular business hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Prices range from $46-$114 for ramada rentals. Staff will follow up with a confirmation within one business day. For reservations less than 24 hours in advance, or for additional questions, please call the Administration office at (928) 679-8000.

Public comment period for County Fair fee changes open

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FLAGSTAFF — The public can comment on proposed County Fair fee changes until April 6. The 60-day comment period on the proposed fees affects vendors, open livestock entries and 4-H wristbands. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors reviewed the fee changes, which have not increased since 2006, at the regular meeting on Jan. 28

The Board may consider any increase or change up to the amount proposed by the department but not anything higher. The Board could approve the fees any time after the 60-day comment period ending April 6, 2020

Coconino County Parks & Recreation (CCPR) manages the Coconino County Fair. CCPR suggested the fee changes to recover costs due to increased prices for goods and services, to align with industry best practices and to moderately increase revenue without impacting the cost to fairgoers. Fees also help offset damages to the Fairgrounds at historic Fort Tuthill Quad, which had a $4.1 million renovation in 2017.

The following is a summary of the proposed fee changes:

Coconino County Fair Vendors

  • Food Vendor fees change from a square footage fee to a minimum guarantee based on frontage against a percentage of gross revenue.
  • Amusement Vendor fees change from a percentage to a square footage fee.
  • Commercial & Non-Profit Vendors will see a nominal increase in cost per square foot of space rental.
  • A refundable deposit will now be required to account for damages, staff time outside of scheduled hours and violating rules set forth in the contract.

Open Livestock Entry

  • Open Poultry and Rabbit & Cavies fees increase from $50 to $1 per entry to offset a portion of the cost of feed and bedding supplied by the Fair.
  • Open Horse fees increase from $3 to $5 per entry to offset a portion of the cost of supplies associated with the Fair Horse Show.

4-H Wristbands (applicable to 4-H youth and parents only)

  • 4-H Adult Admission Wristband (includes unlimited days and parking) fee increases from $20 to $25.
  • 4-H Child Admission Wristband (includes unlimited days and parking) fee increases from $12 to $15.

For more information on the proposed fee changes and to provide comments, visit Coconino.AZ.Gov/Parks.

ADEQ issues fish consumption advisory for two northern Arizona lakes

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PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), in association with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AGFD), is issuing a fish consumption advisory for black crappie caught from Santa Fe Lake in Williams in Coconino County. There is also a fish consumption advisory for largemouth bass caught from Horsethief Basin Lake in Yavapai County and south of the community of Crown King. This advisory is based on recent analysis of fish tissue data that indicate elevated levels of mercury.

ADEQ recommends that adults limit consumption of black crappie from Santa Fe Lake or largemouth bass from Horsethief Basin Lake to 2.5 ounces (uncooked weight) per week and children 12 years of age and younger limit consumption to 2 ounces (uncooked weight) per month. Santa Fe Lake is home to a variety of fish. During the spring and summer, AGFD stocks the lake with rainbow trout, which can be eaten in unlimited amounts.

Generally, contaminant levels found in water are significantly lower than those found in fish tissue. Therefore, fishing, bird watching, swimming and other recreational activities at the lake are not affected by this advisory and are encouraged for enjoying the great outdoors.

Fish are an excellent source of protein and can be an important part of a healthy, diverse diet as they are low in saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends people eat at least two fish or seafood meals every week. The public health recommendations in this advisory are based on frequent and long-term consumption of fish, not infrequent or occasional fish meals. AGFD and ADEQ maintain a Green Light Fisheries program listing fish species from specific waters that may be consumed without limits.

See Interactive e-Map for Green Light Fisheries and Fish Consumption Advisories

Bearizona Welcomes Vernon the Bald Eagle on Veterans Day

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WILLIAMS — Bearizona, a popular drive- and walk-through wildlife park devoted to providing homes to wild animals in need, is introducing its first bald eagle on Veterans Day. He was named Vernon by the winner of the company’s recent naming contest that reached over 30,000 animal lovers across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and was shared 124 times in just 24 hours.

The contest called for all Bearizona fans and supporters to submit a name appropriate for such an incredible animal that represents the strength and freedom of America ahead of the national Veterans Day holiday. The winning name was chosen out of 850 fan entries and honors George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate. Vernon is especially fitting since the first president of the United States and Bearizona’s first bald eagle were both from the great state of Virginia.

After he was seen fighting with another eagle in what was likely a territorial dispute and suffered injuries affecting his ability to fly, Vernon was rescued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Department and made his way to multiple facilities over the last decade before finding his forever home at the Bearizona Wildlife Park, where he will have the space and care he needs to thrive.

“He’s very shy, but he loosens up after a few fish,” said Susan Davidson, founder of High Country Raptors. “The staff continues to learn more about him and his likes and dislikes every day, and we are doing our very best to keep Vernon feeling as comfortable and safe as possible in his new home.”

Visitors will be able to visit Vernon for the first time, along with the rest of the Bearizona residents, on Veterans Day, this Monday, Nov. 11. Free admission will be offered to all individuals currently serving in or who have honorably served in the U.S. military.

“Eagles are becoming more common here in Virginia and I see them a couple of times a month. My heart still jumps in excitement when I see one,” says contest winner, Laurinda Bowling of Bland, Virginia. According to Savannah Carleton, a second contest winner who chose the name Vernon, “Since the bald eagle is from Virginia, it seemed perfect for his name to be Vernon. But when I saw someone else had suggested it, I just decided to ‘second’ their vote. It’s always fun to participate and vote when an Arizona park gets a new member and the community gets a voice in the process.”