Category Archives: Coconino County

Summer food safety tips

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FLAGSTAFF – Summer is the time for picnics and cookouts but these outdoor activities can present food safety challenges. Bacteria in food multiply faster at temperatures between 41°F and 140°F, so following food safety guidelines during the warm summer months is especially important.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that each year roughly 1 in 6 Americans (or 48 million people) gets sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die of foodborne diseases. To avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses, the Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encourage consumers to take appropriate precautions in handling, preparing and cooking foods during the summer months and throughout the year.

Clean: Wash Hands and Surfaces Often.
Unwashed hands are a prime cause of foodborne illness. Wash hands with warm, soapy water before handling food and especially after handling raw meat, using the bathroom, changing diapers and handling pets. When in an outdoor setting with no running water, use a water jug, some soap, and paper towels. Consider carrying moist disposable towelettes or use hand sanitizer for cleaning your hands.

Separate – Don’t Cross-Contaminate.
Cross-contamination during preparation, grilling and serving food is a prime cause of foodborne illness. When packing the cooler chest for an outing, wrap raw meats securely and avoid raw meat juices from contact with ready-to-eat food by storing raw meat below these foods. Wash plates, utensils and cutting boards that held the raw meat or poultry before using again for cooked food.

Cook: Cook to Safe Temperatures.
Foods are properly cooked when they are heated for a long enough time and at a high enough temperature to kill the harmful bacteria that cause foodborne illness. Take a food thermometer along. Meat and poultry cooked on a grill often browns very fast on the outside, so be sure that meats are cooked thoroughly. Check them with a food thermometer.

Cook to proper temperatures and maintain the proper temperature for at least 15 seconds. Proper cooking temperatures of some foods include:

Fish steaks and beef steaks …………….…..1450F (or higher)
Ground meat …………………………………1600F (or higher)
Poultry …………………………………..….. 1650F (or higher)

Chill: Refrigerate Promptly.
Holding food at an unsafe temperature is a prime cause of foodborne illness. Keep cold food cold at 410F or less.

Keep perishable food cold like luncheon meats, cooked meats, chicken, and potato or pasta salads by storing in an insulated cooler packed with ample ice (at least several inches deep), ice packs, or containers of frozen water. Replenish ice frequently throughout the day.
Consider packing canned beverages in one cooler and perishable food in another cooler because the beverage cooler will probably be opened frequently.

Remember – when in doubt, throw it out.
Food left out of refrigeration for more than two hours may not be safe to eat. Above 90 °F, food should not be left out over one hour. Play it safe; put leftover perishables back on ice once you finish eating so they do not spoil or become unsafe to eat.

Following these guidelines can help to make summer outings more enjoyable for all. For information about food safety and additional cooking temperatures, visit http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm094562.htm or call the Coconino County Public Health Services District at 928.679.8750 or toll-free at 1.877.679.7272.

Coconino County Offices closed May 29 in honor of Memorial Day

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FLAGSTAFF — All Coconino County administrative offices will be closed Monday, May 29, 2017 in honor of Memorial Day.

While the administrative offices at the Sheriff’s Office will be closed, Dispatch, Patrol and Detention will be open. Records will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Please dial 9-1-1 for emergencies. For non-emergencies, dial 928-774-4523 to connect with the non-emergency Dispatch number or to leave a message for one of the administrative offices.

Coconino County’s parks and natural areas will remain open, but administrative offices at Fort Tuthill County Park will be closed and no staff or services will be available. Drinking fountains and hose spigots have been turned off at all parks, but bathrooms are still available at Raymond County Park, Peaks View County Park, and Sawmill County Park. Water and bathrooms are available at Louise Yellowman County Park, located in Tuba City.

Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) Animal Management will have an officer available from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact the CCPHSD Animal Management office at 928-679-8756 and leave a message and an officer will respond. Call 9-1-1 for emergencies.

Page hosts 2nd Annual Regional Economic Outlook Conference

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PAGE — Coconino County District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler and the Page Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2nd annual Regional Economic Development Outlook Conference. The theme of this year’s conference was “Inform, Engage, Act.”

Over 100 participants from across northern Arizona listened to presentations by Supervisor Fowler, Page Mayor Bill Diak, Dr. Wade Rousse from Northern Arizona University (NAU) and others. John Stigmon of the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECONA) moderated the day-long event and presented.

“This conference was another tremendous success thanks to the hard work and dedication of so many people,” said Supervisor Fowler. “As people who care about our sense of place and where we come from, we must continue to think of ways we can keep families together and people living here. The people at this conference came up with so many great ideas so that we can continue to work for a prosperous future.”

An education panel with representatives from NAU, Coconino County Community College, Dine College and Navajo Technical Institute discussed the formation of the Page Higher Education Center. Entrepreneurs and business owners in the region also shared the challenges and opportunities of running a small business.

Participants of the conference were encouraged to share information, generate ideas and strategies for future economic development for northern Arizona and the Page region. Stakeholders were challenged to come up with a vision with the impending closure of Navajo Generating Station.

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.

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.

Supervisors update Wildfire Defense Ordinance

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors updated the Wildfire Defense Ordinance during a special session Wednesday, May 3. The updates clarified language in the ordinance and strengthened the coordination of fire-related activities between fire management jurisdictions within the County.

The largest wildfires in Coconino County, the Schultz and Slide Fires, were human caused. The total economic impact of the Schultz Fire alone estimated at between $133-147 million. The Schultz Fire in 2010 claimed 15,000 acres and 2014’s Slide Fire claimed 21,000 acres.

“Residents of Coconino County know too well the damage wildfire can cause,” said Chairwoman of the Board, Liz Archuleta. “The updated language in the Wildfire Defense Ordinance will clear up confusion, specify roles of agencies and provide better communication with residents and visitors. This will help keep our communities safe from fire and protect the well- being of our forests.”

The updated changes to the Wildfire Defense Ordinance (2017-05) are effective May 3, 2017 and the following updates will be incorporated:

• During fire restrictions, people can’t initiate, facilitate, maintain, cause or contribute to a campfire, an open fire, or use of fireworks; or knowingly engage in an activity likely to result in combustion.
• Narrowly defined exemptions during fire restrictions. Permits for exemptions are requested through the local fire district. People living outside of a fire district can request a variance through Coconino County Emergency Management.
• Fire restriction stages are in line with the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management and the U.S. Forest Service.

The Wildfire Defense Ordinance guidelines are enacted by the Board of Supervisors with recommendations by the Emergency Management Director.

“Thank you to the Board of Supervisors for their input and hard work on updating the Wildfire Defense Ordinance,” said Coconino County Emergency Management Director Todd Whitney. “I also want to thank our local, state and federal partners for working with us to make updates to this ordinance. We look forward to keeping constituents and visitors informed during fire restrictions.”

The full ordinance and a complete list of changes can be found at: www.coconino.az.gov/207/Emergency-Management