Quartzsite Town Council will hold a special meeting
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 1, 2011 6:00 PM

On the agenda:

060111 – SP1.  Discussion and possible action regarding investigation by the Arizona Ombudsman’s Office. (Open for public discussion)
Ed Foster, Mayor
 
060111 – SP2.  Discussion and possible action regarding problems in the Quartzsite Police Department. (Open for public discussion)
Ed Foster, Mayor
 

VFW Memorial Day Service 9am tomorrow!

VFW Memorial Day May 30th


The VFW Ben Scott Post 769 in Quartzsite will be holding Memorial Day services at the Hi Jolly Cemetery on Monday, May 30 starting at 9 a.m. Everyone is invited to come and participate in the service--bring chairs if you have them and be sure to wear a hat.

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Post will be going out to the cemetery at 6 a.m. to put wreaths on the tombs of the military personnel who are buried there, and if anyone wishes to help, it would really be appreciated.

There will be two guest speakers for the service, and after the ceremony, the Post is hosting finger foods for everyone. If you would like to bring something to this get together, it will also be very much appreciated. There will be no smoking at the post during this time, at least until after noon. Come on out to the service and honor those men and women who gave up their lives for our country, and help remember all the sacrifices that have been made to ensure the freedoms we enjoy.

Construction delays between Quartzsite & Parker, Hwy. 95 & 72

Delays on State Route 95 and State Route 72 beginning Tuesday


The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is widening the shoulders of State Routes 72 and 95 immediately north, south, and east of the SR 72/SR 95 intersection. Paving operations will begin Tuesday (May 31) with work hours 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The normal work schedule will be Monday through Thursday. Next week crews will work Tuesday through Friday due to the Memorial Day holiday.

One lane of the roadway will be closed while crews pave the shoulders in two-mile increments. Drivers should allow extra travel time as they will be stopped temporarily while vehicles pass through the work zone in alternating directions.

Message boards will be displayed to inform drivers of the restrictions. Law enforcement will be on site to control traffic and monitor the reduced speed limit of 35 mph through the work zone.

When the project is complete, an eight-mile stretch of SR 95 and a one-mile stretch of SR 72 will have new eight-foot wide paved shoulders that will provide an extra margin of safety for motorists.

The project is scheduled for completion by July 2011.

ADOT advises drivers to proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.

For more information about this project, please visit www.azdot.gov/statewide or contact Yuma District Senior Community Relations Officer Gabriella Kemp at 928.317.2165 or gkemp@azdot.gov. Local media should contact the ADOT Public Information Office at news@azdot.gov or 1.800.949.8057. Visit www.facebook.com/azdot or www.azdot.gov for more information about ADOT.

Laguna Fire 100% Contained!

As of 2000 hours on May 24, 2011,

the Laguna Fire north of Yuma Arizona is

100% Contained.

Contained does NOT mean the fire is out.

The three hotspots within the 751 acre perimeter were successfully

mitigated on Tuesday, with no new flames seen at this hour.

The public is urged to stay clear of the Laguna Dam / Betty's Kitchen

Recreation Areas (and this includes boat launching at Mittry Lake) as trees

are still smoldering and smoking) and fire crews remain on scene.

Memorial Day alert: allow extra time for work zone 40 miles w. of Phoenix

I-10 Memorial Day weekend alert: Allow extra travel time for bridge work zone

40 miles west of Phoenix

PHOENIX – If you’re using Interstate 10 between Phoenix and California over the Memorial Day weekend, be sure to plan ahead and allow extra travel time, especially before and at the end of the weekend, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.

While no construction work is scheduled over the weekend, heavy holiday traffic is expected to back up along I-10 at the Hassayampa River bridges work zone 40 miles west of downtown Phoenix. I-10 is narrowed to one lane in each direction in the area (milepost 105), with traffic sharing one bridge while the second bridge is undergoing upgrades.

ADOT has the following recommendations for drivers planning to use I-10 between Phoenix and California just before and during the holiday weekend:

•Travel through the area during non-peak hours, including early morning or late night. Traffic is expected to be heaviest during the afternoon and early evening hours on Thursday and Friday (May 26-27) and again on Monday (May 30).
•Allow extra travel time. Delays of approximately 90 minutes may occur during the busiest hours before and at the end of the weekend.
•Consider alternate routes, including US 60 through Wickenburg or Interstate 8 (via State Route 85 in the Phoenix area and US 95 north of Yuma).

ADOT will provide updates about heavier I-10 traffic conditions on its Travel Information site at www.az511.gov or by calling 5-1-1 from within the state.

The $3.9 million I-10 Hassayampa Bridges Improvement Project started in fall 2010. It is scheduled for completion this summer.

For the latest news on major existing highway work zones, visit the ADOT website at www.azdot.gov. Information about Memorial Day travel plus ADOT projects and programs is available via the ADOT Blog at http://adotblog.blogspot.com.

Reward for Information on Laguna Fire

Holding at 751 Acres – 90% Contained

(Yuma, Az.)—Fire investigators are working the scene Monday of the Laguna
Fire north of Yuma, Arizona where 751 acres have burned since May 18, 2011.
The fire is being investigated as human caused; and today, officials are
asking the public for information.

A reward of up to $10,000 is available for information that leads to a  conviction. Call 1-800-47-ARSON or
visit the web site at www. wetip.com

Fire Restrictions are in effect in southern Arizona that prohibit
campfires, smoking on public lands, and recreational target shooting during
the fire season. Lighting fireworks within federal lands is never allowed;
tossing cigarette butts or any trash is also illegal. Whether accidental
or intentional, people are responsible for their actions.

The Incident Command of the Laguna Fire is targeting full containment for
Tuesday, May 24, 2011- meaning that the perimeter of the fire would have a
strong line around it (fireline) aimed at keeping the flames from jumping
to unburned areas.

Full containment does not mean that the fire is out. The Laguna Fire is
still burning Monday inside of the perimeter with at least three problem
areas. Yuma area residents should expect to see smoke and occasional
flare-ups for several days and stay away from the Mittry Lake, Laguna Dam,
and Betty’s Kitchen recreational areas. Avenue 7E that leads to the Rec
sites remains closed on Monday.

45 firefighting personnel remain on the ground on Monday. The Fish &
Wildlife Service fire boats continue to battle hotspots along the Colorado
River. A helicopter remains on scene Monday that gets water from the river
and lake and drops it on hotspots.

The Laguna Fire began Wednesday, May 18, on the California side of the
Colorado River; it jumped to Arizona and tracked north along the popular
recreation sites at Laguna Dam and Mittry Lake. Several historical sites
were damaged or destroyed and wildlife habitat was burned.

Suppressing the Laguna Fire has been a major interagency cooperative effort
with crews remaining on scene from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Fish &
Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management and Az. State Forestry.
Early cost estimates are now at $300,000.

For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:
Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985
Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

Laguna Fire 90% Contained but....

Laguna Fire 90% Contained –
High Winds and Hotspots Could Delay Containment

(Yuma, Az.)—The Incident Commander of the Laguna Fire tonight advises that
the target for full containment of the 751-acre blaze is now more likely to
occur on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 than on Monday.

Firefighters are working now inside the fire’s perimeter where several
hotspots of smoldering or creeping flames burn close to pockets of unburned
vegetation. Sunday’s higher winds and unburned vegetation fueled
interior flames. “While it looks like the fire it out, it is deceiving.

There are many pockets of heat below the ground and unburned vegetation
that could start a flare-up. This is the time when it takes slow and
methodical work to cool down the interior and ensure that fire doesn’t jump
our containment line,” says James Stewart, a Type 3T incident commander .

Yuma County Sheriff Deputies were on scene Sunday turning spectators away.
The Avenue 7E Road remains closed as emergency personnel are working
through the Laguna Dam and Mittry Lake recreation area. A helicopter is
fighting the fire by dipping a huge bucket into the waters and dropping
water from the air on the interior fire where, on Sunday, plumes of thick
black smoke rose above the Yuma skies.

Fire investigators continue the investigation as human caused. Information
leading to a conviction is worth up to a $10,000 reward. Call
1-800-47-ARSON or go to www.wetip.com

To date there have not been any injuries to firefighters, though an
individual was taken to the hospital today for evaluation after hiking
soreness and was returned to full duty. Crews were assigned Sunday to hike
to remote locations where they aggressively reinforced the fireline.
Bulldozers improved containment lines that to date have kept the footprint
at 751 acres for several days.

The Laguna Fire began Wednesday, May 18, on the California side of the
Colorado River; it jumped to Arizona and tracked north along the popular
recreation sites at Laguna Dam and Mittry Lake. Several historical sites
were damaged or destroyed and wildlife habitat was burned.

Suppressing the Laguna Fire has been a major interagency cooperative effort
with crews remaining on scene from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Fish &
Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management and Az. State Forestry.
Early cost estimates are now at $300,000.

Campers are reminded that Fire Restrictions are in place that prohibit
campfires, smoking, and target shooting on public lands in southern
Arizona. The restrictions will continue until conditions warrant
rescinding.

For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:
Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985
Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

Quartzsite sex offenders "take offense" Are you kidding?

EDITORIAL:

The Desert Messenger, "Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper", now in our 7th year, is NOT affiliated in ANY WAY with the Desert Freedom Press (DFP), a 6-month old tabloid still operating without a Quartzsite business license. Publisher, Jennifer "Jade" Harris-Jones, claims she doesn't need one because the paper is free and quotes "case law", etc. Well, she has a court date on Wed. to see if that defense holds true.

A recent article in DFP expressed sympathy for two Quartzsite Level 2 & 3 CONVICTED Sex Offenders. I received an email from an irrate reader, assuming the article was published in my paper. After clarifying the situation with the reader (who was very apologetic about the mixup), it became clear to me that readers are falling prey to the confusion Jennifer "Jade" Harris-Jones probably had hoped for when she chose the name of her publication.

The name of her first publication dated Dec. 2010, was "Desert Free Press". After the owner of www.DesertFreePress.com became aware of the use his name, Jones quickly changed it slightly, as if no one would notice, to "Desert Freedom Press". Changes were made on her blog and on her paper's blog site, deleting all references of the original name on the Internet.

Jones' article, titled, "Sex offenders take offense" claims that "neither sex offenders had been convicted by a jury of their peers, on evidence that proved their guilt 'beyond a reasonable doubt'". As the mother of a child who was molested, I can tell you that my daughter's perpetrator was also not brought before a "jury of his peers". That's just the way it was. My daughters' offender is still a registered sex offender, according to United States law.

To give such a prominent position and space to a level 2 and a level 3 sex offender, quoting "the girl's family was rich and we were poor" is just irresponsible reporting, in my opinion.

My daughter's journey of healing was a long process, as is any child, or adult, who experienced this type of crime. If the author of that article had any ounce of compassion, she would have taken the time to be concerned about the victims of these crimes, rather than spotlight the sad stories of the perpetrators. Yes, they served their time, and they will continue to be forced to register in the town(s) they live in. That's the way the law is set up, period. That does not stop them from going out to eat at the local McDonald's. Was he banned due to something else? The laws protect Sex Offenders from harassment. If that were true, I suggest he make a formal complaint and not play it out in the local tabloid.

According to Judy Hedding, of http://www.about.com/,

"Arizona's Department of Public Safety knows that there are about 11,000 sex offenders in the State of Arizona. Sex offenders who have been released from custody are required to register with the police. You can see if the most dangerous of those have moved into your area at the Arizona Department of Public Safety's Sex Offender Info Center.

Why is DPS Doing This?
In June of 1996 Arizona adopted its version of "Megan's Law" which includes a community notification process when a sex offender is released from jail or prison, or when they are on probation. By placing this information on the Internet, everyone can now have access to the information and can assist in keeping the information current. Maricopa County has been recognized by The Center For Sex Offender Management as one of sixteen areas of the country that has implemented unique resources for sex offender management.
 
What is Megan's Law?
Megan Kanka was 7 years old when a twice-convicted sex offender, living across the street, brutally raped and murdered her. The crime occurred in New Jersey. In 1994 Governor Christine Todd Whitman signed "Megan's Law" requiring convicted sex offenders to register with local police. The law further establishes a system of notification to the public. President Clinton signed the law in May 1996.

Who's On the Arizona List?
There are approximately 11,000 sex offenders in Arizona. According to the AZ Department of Public Safety Sex Offender Compliance Team, as of September 2007 there are about 2,700 Level 2 sex offenders in Arizona, (about 1,100 of them reside in Maricopa County), and about 1,700 Level 3 sex offenders in Arizona (about 750 of them reside in Maricopa County).
Registered sex offenders from other states must register in Arizona only if they will be in Arizona for more than 10 days. Transients must also register, and are designated as "homeless." There is a limit to how many sex offenders on probation can reside in any one multi-family dwelling to prevent clustering. As of September 19, 2007 Arizona law stipulates that Level 3 sex offenders may not reside within 1,000 feet of a school or a day care center (certain exemptions apply).

How Is the Risk Established and What do the Levels Mean?
There are 19 criteria used to assess the likelihood that a convicted sex offender will commit such a crime again. Point values are assessed for the 19 risk factors, and the total points derived for an individual determine whether he/she will be assigned a Level 1, 2 or 3 rating. Level 1 represents low risk, Level 2 represents intermediate risk, and Level 3 represents high risk."

As a society, we need to be compassionate to all victims of sex crimes. Yes, I am very passionate about this painful topic! I have a reason to be concerned about the youth of our nation! They are our future and we are their teachers. Anyone who is a parent knows the responsibility of raising a child to be a valuable assest to our society. We teach compassion, respect, the honor of our elders, to be able to recognize right from wrong, to be helpful, to walk in a good way on this earth, along with many other character traits.

When making decisions, we need to ask ourselves, "how will this serve the next 7 generations?" Protecting our children is the most important thing we can do as a society. I hope Quartzsite residents will take a stand to protect all of our youth!

Laguna fire update 90% contained!

Firefighters on Track for

Monday Containment

at Laguna Fire

90% Contained

(Yuma, Az.)—Despite interference from local traffic and boaters,
interagency firefighters make significant progress battling the Laguna Fire
– a 751- acre wildland fire north of Yuma, Arizona.  The team is today on track for full containment Monday, May 23, 2011.

The blaze began Wednesday, May 18, on the California side of the Colorado River, jumping to Arizona and tracking north along the popular recreation sites at Laguna Dam and Mittry Lake.

“We did not have any flare-ups over night and still have no injuries.
Today we are evaluating the team’s fatigue.  We cannot afford firefighters
or the public to be complacent; it’s best if sportsmen would stay clear
Sunday,” Incident Commander Ron Morrison explains.

On Sunday, fire fighters are hiking in to locations where they’re
aggressively reinforcing the fireline.  Bulldozers are scraping stronger
containment lines while a helicopter is dropping water on hot spots.

Fire investigators have arrived on scene.  The Laguna Fire is being
investigated as human caused.   Several historical sites were damaged or
destroyed and wildlife habitat was burned.

Suppressing the Laguna Fire has been a major interagency cooperative effort
including engines and crews from the Yuma’s Rural/Metro, Winterhaven, Az.

Department of Corrections, Imperial County, and Yuma Proving Grounds Fire

Departments; and crews from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish &

Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management.

Local residents and visitors are advised to stay clear from the recreation

sites as emergency personnel continue work at the scene.  Campers are

reminded that Fire Restrictions are in place that prohibit campfires,

smoking, and target shooting on public lands in southern Arizona.  The

restrictions will continue until conditions warrant rescinding.

       For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:

                     Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985

             Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenew

Laguna fire updates

 Laguna Fire Continues Burning North of Yuma, Illegal Campfires Causing
                           Additional Threats

Yuma, Ariz. -  Fire fighters continue securing fire line on the 751- acre
Laguna Fire along the Colorado River about 15 miles north of Yuma, Ariz.

     Fire fighters worked Friday night patrolling and monitoring the

Laguna Fire.  The acreage burned is holding at 751 acres and is 70%

contained with full containment May 23, 2011.  Smokey conditions will

continue the next few days as piles burn inside the fire.

     “We’re making good progress on the Laguna Fire, but illegal campfires

nearby are posing a serious threat,” said BLM Colorado River District Fire

Management Officer Mike Trent. “Our night patrols encountered 5 campers

with illegal campfires.  We’re in Fire Restrictions now and campfires are

only allowed in developed recreation areas using agency installed fire

rings.  The last thing we need now is a new fire within a fire.”

     Trent continued, “Yuma County closed the #E7 Road to Mittry Lake and

Laguna Dam – and people are driving around the barricade and impeding fire

vehicle traffic.  The closure is being enforced this weekend.  In addition,

boaters are approaching the helicopters while they dip water bucks in

Mittry Lake to drop on the fire hotspots.  It’s creating a very dangerous

situation – both for the boaters and the helicopters.  We realize it’s a

beautiful weekend, but we’re asking the public to please stay out of the

area for the next couple days while we get the fire wrapped up and all the

equipment moved out.”

     Arizona Type III Incident Management Team (Morrison) is continuing to

manage the Laguna Fire.  Today, 60 fire fighters are using engines, two

helicopters, and two fire boats to pump water directly on hotspots, are

secure fire line.

     Fire fighters continued water drops today using two helicopters,

using two fire boats to pump water directly on the flames, dozer work, and

hand crews building fire line.

     Suppressing the Laguna Fire has been a major interagency cooperative

effort including engines and crews from the Rural/Metro, Department of

Corrections, Imperial County, and Yuma Proving Grounds Fire Departments ;

and crews from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service,

and Bureau of Land Management.

     The Laguna Fire was reported May 18 and appears to be human caused

and is under investigation.

     All fire fighting agencies in southern Arizona want to remind people

that Fire Restrictions are in effect and ask people to be careful outdoors.

The restrictions will continue until conditions warrant rescinding.


       For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:
                     Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985
             Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

                                 

Quartzsite Town Council Meeting agenda for Tues. May 24, 2011

The Quartzsite Town Council will meet on Tuesday, May 24th at 7pm at Town Hall. Items on the agenda include:

NEW BUSINESS:


052411 – 1. Discussion and possible approval to apply for a new non-matching grant from Arizona Community Foundation for $4,400.00. (Not open for public discussion) Alex Taft, Town Manager

052411 – 2. Discussion and possible approval of IGA (Intergovernmental Agreement) with La Paz County Elections Department as it relates to the 2011 Special Election that is scheduled for August 30, 2011. (Not open for public discussion) Karen Norris, Town Clerk

052411 – 3. Discussion and possible action regarding transfer and use of property;1.41 acres of real property from Chaunce W. Hamilton & Doris Hamilton to the Town of Quartzsite for a water storage tank and/or well. Al Johnson, Assistant Town Manager

052411 – 4. Discussion and possible appointment of Dolores Klose to the Personnel Board; term to expire June 2014. (Not open for public discussion) Alex Taft, Town Manager

052411 – 5. Discussion and possible appointment of Barbara Bowman to the Personnel Board; term to expire June 2014. (Not open for public discussion) Alex Taft, Town Manager

052411 – 6. Discussion and possible action to appoint a duly elected or appointed representative to serve as a member of the Enterprise Zone Commission.  Alex Taft, Town Manager

Laguna Fire north of Yuma 50% contained - AZ FIRE RESTRICTIONS

Yuma, Ariz. - Fire fighters are progressing on the Laguna Fire
along the Colorado River about 15 miles north of Yuma, Ariz.

Fire fighters made good progress Thursday on the Laguna Fire. The
acreage burned is approximately 800 acres. Currently the
fire is estimated at 50% contained with full containment Monday, May 23, 2011.

Fifty fire fighters worked Thursday night securing the southern end
of the fire and putting out flare-ups on the California side. Fire
activity continues to be in islands of vegetation inside the fire
perimeter.

An Arizona Type III Incident Management Team (Morrison) assumed
responsibility for the Laguna Fire Friday morning.

“We’re asking folks to please avoid the Mittry Lake area for the next
few days,” said BLM Colorado River District Fire Management Officer Mike
Trent. “We realize it’s an inconvenience, but we appreciate the public’s
cooperation while we get this fire contained. Access for our fire crews
and equipment is challenging.”

Friday’s activity will focus on continued water drops using two
helicopters, using two fire boats to pump water directly on the flames,
dozer work, and hand crews building fire line.

Approximately 130 fire fighters are working the Laguna Fire including
engines and crews from the Rural/Metro, Department of Corrections, Imperial
County, and Yuma Proving Grounds Fire Departments ; and crews from the
Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land
Management. Fifty fire fighters and two engines will work through the night
tonight taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and higher humidities.


The Laguna Fire was reported May 18 and is burning in salt cedar,
willow, cottonwood, and mesquite in the Colorado River riparian area. The
fire started in California on the Quechan Reservation and hopped the river
into Arizona. The fire appears to be human caused and is under
investigation. Approximately 95% of the fire is in Arizona.

All fire fighting agencies in southern Arizona want to remind people
that Fire Restrictions are in effect and ask people to be careful outdoors.

Currently there are no plans to close any areas along the Colorado River
area to public use.

Fire Restrictions prohibit the following acts:


1. Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires. Campfires and
charcoal grills are only permitted in developed recreation sites or
improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided.
The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is
allowed on public lands provided such devices meet the fire
underwriter’s specifications for safety.


2. Smoking. Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a
vehicle and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation
site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that
is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

3. Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.


4. Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.


Spring rains resulted in the growth of wildflowers, grasses, and
other vegetation that is now drying, dying, and poised to become fuel for
wildfires as temperatures increase. The restrictions will continue until
conditions warrant rescinding.


For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:
Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985
Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

La Paz County Recreation Water Illness & Injury Prevention Week

ENJOY THE WATER AND STAY HEALTHY

La Paz County, AZ — The week before Memorial Day (May 23–29, 2011) is Recreational Water Illness and Injury (RWII) Prevention Week. The goal of this observance is to raise awareness about healthy and safe swimming behaviors, including ways to prevent recreational water illnesses (RWIs) and injuries. RWIs are caused by germs spread by swallowing, breathing in mists or aerosols of, or having contact with contaminated water in swimming pools, hot tubs, water parks, water play areas, interactive fountains, lakes, rivers, or oceans. RWIs can also be caused by chemicals in the water or chemicals that evaporate from the water and cause indoor air quality problems.

RWI Prevention Week 2011 Theme: Prevent Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer's ear (also known as otitis externa) is an infection of the outer ear canal that can cause pain and discomfort for swimmers of all ages. Swimmer’s ear affects millions of Americans every year and results in hundreds of millions of dollars in hospitalization costs. The good news is that swimmer’s ear is preventable. This year, to help ensure a healthy and pain-free swimming experience, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is encouraging swimmers to follow the Swimmer’s Ear Prevention Guidelines below.

Swimmer’s Ear Prevention Guidelines

DO keep your ears as dry as possible.

• Use a bathing cap, ear plugs, or custom-fitted swim molds when swimming.

DO dry your ears thoroughly after swimming or showering.

• Use a towel to dry your ears well.

• Tilt your head to hold each ear facing down to allow water to escape the ear canal.

• Pull your earlobe in different directions while the ear is faced down to help water drain out.

• If there is still water left in ears, consider using a hair dryer to move air through the ear canal.

    Put the dryer on the lowest heat and speed/fan setting; hold it several inches from the ear.

DON’T put objects in the ear canal (including cotton-tip swabs, pencils, paperclips, or fingers).

DON’T try to remove ear wax. Ear wax helps protect your ear canal from infection.

• If you think that the ear canal is blocked by ear wax, consult your healthcare provider.

CONSULT your healthcare provider about using ear drops after swimming.

• Drops should not be used by people with ear tubes, damaged ear drums, outer ear infections, or ear drainage (pus or liquid coming from the ear).

CONSULT your healthcare provider if you have ear pain, discomfort, or drainage from your ears.

For more information on RWI prevention, visit

www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/rwi/rwi-prevent.html

For more information on drowning prevention, visit

www.cdc.gov/SafeChild/Drowning/index.html

Laguna Fire burns north of Yuma UPDATE

UPDATED!
Laguna Fire Continues Burning North of Yuma








Yuma, Ariz. - A wildfire has burned approximately 400-600 acres along the Colorado River

about 15 miles north of Yuma, Ariz.

Yuma, Ariz. - Fire fighters are holding the 400- acre Laguna Fire along the Colorado River about 15 miles north of Yuma, Ariz. Fire fighters made good progress Thursday on the Laguna Fire. The acreage burned is unchanged at approximately 400-600 acres. Currently the fire is estimated at 40% contained with full containment May 23, 2011.

Mapping will be done later today or early Friday.

Most of the fire activity today occurred in islands of vegetation inside the fire perimeter. Fire fighters used two helicopters - Type 1 and Type 3 - to drop water on the fire taken from nearby Mittry Lake. A fire boat operating on the Colorado River pumped water directly on the flames.

Approximately 130 fire fighters are working the Laguna Fire including engines and crews from the Rural/Metro, Department of Corrections, Imperial County, and Yuma Proving Grounds Fire Departments ; and crews from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management. Fifty fire fighters and two engines will work through the night tonight taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and higher humidities.


The Laguna Fire was reported May 18 and is burning in salt cedar,
willow, cottonwood, and mesquite in the Colorado River riparian area. The
fire started in California and hopped the river into Arizona. The fire
appears to be human caused and is under investigation. Approximately 95%
of the fire is in Arizona.

The fire grew quickly and burned one historic structure in the
Betty’s Kitchen Recreation area on the California side. A BLM water truck
was damaged as well.

All fire fighting agencies in southern Arizona want to remind people
that Fire Restrictions are in effect and ask people to be careful outdoors.
Conditions are ripe for rapid, large-scale burning … all it takes is a
single spark.



For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:

Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985

Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews




PREVIOUS POST:

The Laguna Fire was reported late Wednesday afternoon (May 18) and is burning in salt cedar, willow, cottonwood, and mesquite in the Colorado River riparian area. The fire started in California and hopped the river into Arizona. The fire appears to be human caused and is under investigation. There is no estimate of containment at this time.

Approximately 95% of the fire is in Arizona.

A large array of fire fighting resources are currently on hand or enroute to the fire. Fire engines and crews from the Rural/Metro, Imperial County, and Yuma Proving Grounds Fire Departments worked with crews from the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management fought the fire through the night. About 60 people are on the fire now and additional fire crews have been ordered. Fire fighters plan to remain on scene tonight. Two bull dozers are being used.
The fire grew quickly and burned one historic structure in the Betty’s Kitchen Recreation area on the California side. A BLM water truck was damaged as well.

A Type III Fire Management Team is on scene or enroute and will assume management of the fire later today. All fire fighting agencies in southern Arizona want to remind people that Fire Restrictions are in effect and ask people to be careful outdoors.

Conditions are ripe for rapid, large-scale burning … all it takes is a single spark.

For fire restriction information in Arizona and New Mexico:

Call Toll Free: 1-877-864-6985

Visit the website: www.publiclands.org/firenews

ADOT Summer Travel Driving Tips

ADOT offers Memorial Day weekend and

summer travel driving tips

PHOENIX – As many Arizonans look ahead to Memorial Day weekend and the start of the summer travel season, the Arizona Department of Transportation is urging drivers to plan ahead and follow important safety tips.

As summer temperatures soar each year, drivers should make sure they’ve had their vehicle’s condition checked before they head out on a trip. Weather conditions can change and monsoon storms can arrive suddenly, creating dust-filled winds and cutting visibility along the highway up ahead.

Allowing extra travel time is a good idea, too. Unscheduled closures due to crashes or other incidents, including wildfires, can affect highway travel. Existing work zones for highway improvement projects, even when work is not taking place over holiday weekends, can add time spent on the road.

A couple of existing highway work zones to be aware of – especially at the start and end of the Memorial Day weekend – are located along Interstate 10 at the Hassayampa River bridges 40 miles west of downtown Phoenix and at the Interstate 17 bridges at Munds Park 20 miles south of Flagstaff. The highways are narrowed to one lane in each direction at those locations.

ADOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and offers the following summer driving tips:

•Check your vehicle (Examples: check tire condition and pressure, oil and other fluid levels and inspect belts and hoses)
•Expect the unexpected when out on the road – pay attention. And buckle up
•Get plenty of rest before traveling and take regular rest breaks
•Be patient and alert to changing road conditions
•Plan your travel route and check alternate routes. Have a map
•If your vehicle breaks down or you need to change a flat tire, pull completely off the roadway. Please be cautious in areas with taller grass or brush – hot vehicle components can spark a fire.
•Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs (even prescription drugs can limit your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle)
•Cell phones or satellite devices help in an emergency – make sure they are fully charged
•Obey the posted speed limit, check for changing speed limit conditions
•Signal in advance for lane changes and turning maneuvers
•Take plenty of food and water
•Slow down in areas known for high winds and dust storms and be prepared to exit the roadway if extreme weather conditions occur


Before heading out on the road, drivers are encouraged to call 5-1-1 or log on to ADOT’s Traveler Information site at www.az511.gov to check on updated highway conditions around the state. You also can get additional ADOT updates via Twitter at www.twitter.com/ArizonaDOT or Facebook at www.facebook.com/AZDOT.

Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster arrested!

Quartzsite, AZ- Tuesday, May 10, 2011, just prior to the regular meeting of the Quartzsite Town Council, Mayor Ed Foster was arrested, cited and released on 3 charges pertaining to a May 5th incident involving the arrest of Jennifer “Jade” Harris-Jones.


The Misdemeanor Charges were: 1) Disorderly Conduct – Fighting/Violent/Disruptive, 2) Disorderly Conduct – Refuse to Disperse at Emergency, 3) Hindering Prosecution 2nd Degree. A Felony charge, Obstructing Criminal Investigations, was sent to La Paz County Attorney’s Office for review.

According to Quartzsite Police Dept (QPD) reports, on May 5th, Foster arrived on the scene of a “high profile drug investigation” taking place near the QPD's holding cell, in the employee parking lot located behind Town Hall. Jennifer “Jade” Harris-Jones was already on the scene locked inside her vehicle, refusing to obey police orders. Foster was “warned several times” by Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert not to interfere. “He became threatening by yelling that he was my [Gilbert’s] ‘boss’ and the ‘Mayor’ and that he was demanding an explanation.”

As Jones was being arrested, she evidently threw her keys towards Foster, who according to the report, “ran and stepped on the keys in an attempt to keep me [Gilbert] from getting them. [Gilbert] then had to physically pry his foot off of them to retrieve them.” According to Gilbert, Foster drove off before being sited at the scene.

After the arrest on Tuesday evening, Foster proceeded to lead the Town Council meeting that night. For the video, visit www.YouTube.com/user/qwatchingeyes.

A hearing has been set for June 8th, however Foster has requested a change of venue.

Bouse Wash Rest Area I-10 closed for repairs beginning Wednesday

Westbound facility expected to reopen

for Memorial weekend travel

PHOENIX – The westbound Bouse Wash rest area, located on Interstate 10 east of Quartzsite at milepost 52, will close on Wednesday (May 11) for critical plumbing repairs. Work is anticipated to be completed before the Memorial Day weekend.

The drains in both the westbound and eastbound facilities are in need of repair and must be replaced. The westbound I-10 rest area is expected to be open for travelers during Memorial Day weekend. Workers are expected to begin repairs on the eastbound rest area in early June.

While Bouse Wash is closed, travelers will be able to use the Burnt Wells Rest Area, located at milepost 86 west of State Route 85, and the Ehrenberg Rest Area at milepost 5 near the California border.

A map showing all highway rest areas in Arizona is available at:

http://www.azdot.gov/mpd/gis/maps/pdf/rest_areas.pdf.

Rep. Grijalva to be honored with Library Public Service Award

Grijalva Will Receive American Library Association 2011 Public Service Award for Support of Libraries in Public Education on May 9

Washington, D.C. – The Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations (ALTAFF), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), has announced it will award the 2011 Public Service Award to Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva May 9 as part of National Library Legislative Day in Washington, D.C. In 2009 and in several previous Congresses, Grijalva introduced the Strengthening Kids’ Interest in Learning and Libraries (SKILLs) Act, which seeks to place at least one highly qualified school library media specialist in each public school.

The bill also focuses on increasing the number of highly qualified teachers, library media specialists, and principals and assistant principals. Grijalva remains a strong supporter of these goals and of the role of libraries in public education, and has said he intends to pursue an approach under the House Republican majority that includes increased resources for libraries and library media specialists.

“Schools are more than a collection of classrooms – they’re places where students can learn day in and day out in a variety of ways,” Grijalva said. “Libraries and librarians make each school richer and more unique, and I’ve always believed in their ability to make learning an enjoyable lifelong experience. I humbly thank ALTAFF for this honor and want to let them know I won’t stop fighting for libraries in this difficult economy.”

The Public Service Award is given annually by ALTAFF to a legislator who has been especially supportive of libraries.

Good News for pronghorn near Quartzsite, AZ

Reestablishing Endangered Sonoran Pronghorn Populations Gets Green Light

Preparation of Release Site at Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

to Proceed

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today the final rule to establish two non-essential experimental populations of the endangered Sonoran pronghorn under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This final rule will set in motion the reintroduction of Sonoran pronghorns to establish up to two new populations as envisioned by the recovery plan.

The final rule includes provisions to construct a captive breeding and release facility in King Valley on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona and to establish a second U.S. population of endangered Sonoran pronghorn. An additional future population has also been approved for Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR) East, a property managed by Luke Air Force Base. Arizona Game and Fish Department, working in coordination with the Service, will take the on-the-ground lead in implementing construction and eventual monitoring of pronghorn at these two new sites located in the southwest portion of the state.

“Establishing two new Sonoran pronghorn populations will advance recovery for one of North America’s most imperiled land mammals,” said Benjamin Tuggle, Regional Director of the Service’s Southwest Region. “Only nine years ago, drought nearly extirpated this species in the U.S., but through the continued, far-sighted efforts of conservation biologists, numerous federal land managers, the U.S. Air Force, Native American Tribes and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the pronghorn will now be returning to a portion of their historical habitat in the U.S.”

The Sonoran pronghorn has been protected under the ESA since 1967. The ESA provides a critical safety net for America’s native fish, wildlife and plants. This landmark conservation law has prevented the extinction of hundreds of imperiled species across the nation and promoted the recovery of many others.

The final rule designating an experimental population will publish in the Federal Register on May 4, 2011, and become effective on June 6, 2011, designating any reestablished Sonoran pronghorn populations as an “experimental, nonessential population” – a designation under the ESA allowing for greater management flexibility in reintroducing new populations within the species’ historical range. The Service has completed an environmental assessment and selected the Kofa site, historically occupied by the species, as a preferred location for reestablishing a new population to expand its range and bolster pronghorn numbers. The Luke Air Force Base commander will sign on as a cooperator in the project and final environmental assessment.

Measures to create a pronghorn breeding enclosure on the Kofa refuge will be conducted by Refuge staff and contractors with the Arizona Game and Fish Department. A core population of 11 breeding-age pronghorn will be moved to the enclosure next winter. By late 2013, up to 20 two-year old offspring are expected to be released from the facility into suitable adjacent habitat.

In the future, a new population will be established on BMGR-East, located east of State Route 85. Offspring reared at nearby Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge captive-breeding facility will be initially moved to a holding pen to be constructed on BMGR-East for acclimation of the animals prior to release on the site.

The Service does not expect that this action will impede border security efforts in any way and is committed to coordinating closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other partners before implementing release of Sonoran pronghorns into BMGR-East.

Sonoran pronghorn originally ranged widely throughout the Sonoran Desert in southwestern Arizona and northern Mexico. The Sonoran pronghorn is extremely skittish and extremely fast. Because it uses distance and speed as protection from predators, it prefers wide open spaces.

“I am very proud of the work our agency has conducted on this species over the last 20 years. We nearly lost our herd of Sonoran pronghorn in 2002 when fewer than 20 animals remained. Fortunately, we were given a second chance at recovery, and active, aggressive, hands-on management brought this species back from the knife’s edge of extirpation,” said Larry Voyles, Director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “This project provides a good model for cooperation between state and federal wildlife agencies and the Department of Defense, who brought together the resources and expertise necessary to pull off a truly important accomplishment.”

Sonoran pronghorn are now confined to an increasingly isolated and fragmented portion of their former range as a result of human settlement and associated development. Today, there are an estimated 102 animals in the U.S. limited to Barry M. Goldwater Range, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Bureau of Land Management lands, and two Mexican populations totaling about 470 animals.

The full descriptions of the release plans and locations, environmental assessment, Finding of No Significant Impact (NEPA) and experimental population rule are available at http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/Library/ or http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/arizona/Sonoran_Pronghorn.htm or by contacting the Refuge Manager, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, 1611 N. Second Ave., Ajo, AZ 85321 (520-387-6483).

America’s fish, wildlife and plant resources belong to all of us, and ensuring the health of imperiled species is a shared responsibility. To learn more about the Service’s Endangered Species program, go to http://www.fws.gov/endangered/.

Established in 1939, Kofa National Wildlife Refuge near Yuma encompasses 665,400 acres of pristine desert. The Refuge provides essential habitat for Desert Bighorn Sheep, the California Fan Palm, and other wildlife and plants. This will be the first population of Sonoran pronghorn on the Refuge.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

FAQ's re: Sonoran Pronghorn reintroduction near Quartzsite

Sonoran Pronghorn Reintroduction

Final Environmental Assessment
The Endangered Species Act (ESA) recognizes that fish, wildlife and plant species have aesthetic, ecological, educational, historical, recreational and scientific value and provides a means to conserve the ecosystems upon which endangered or threatened species depend. Section 10 of the ESA, entitled “Exceptions,” offers an avenue to authorize activities that would otherwise be prohibited. Under section 10(j), the Secretary of the Department of the Interior can designate reintroduced populations established outside the species’ current range as “experimental.”

The following are frequently asked questions and answers on

 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (Service) use of

experimental populations to help recover species:

What action is the Service taking?
The Service is announcing a final rule to establish two non-essential experimental populations of the endangered Sonoran pronghorn under section 10(j) of the ESA. This final rule will set in motion the reintroduction of Sonoran pronghorns to establish up to two new populations as envisioned by the recovery plan.

The final rule includes provisions to construct a captive breeding and release facility in King Valley on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge in Arizona and to establish a second U.S. population of endangered Sonoran pronghorn. An additional future population has also been approved for Barry M. Goldwater Range (BMGR) East, a property managed by Luke Air Force Base. Arizona Game and Fish Department, working in coordination with the Service, will take the on-the-ground lead in implementing construction and eventual monitoring of pronghorn at these two new sites located in the southwest portion of the state.

What are the benefits of reintroducing species?

Reintroductions aid in the recovery of threatened or endangered species. Species with small populations and limited ranges tend to be more vulnerable to perturbations. The Service augments species’ existing population numbers in a variety of situations around the country. When a species’ range has been severely reduced or a significant population extirpated, and we believe the species needs a wider distribution than the current one to achieve the long term resilience and persistence necessary for recovery and delisting, often the only remaining recovery option is reintroduction.

Under a section 10(j) rule, the Service has much more leeway to take local concerns into account when preparing management strategies and thus can avert restrictions on current and future land uses and activities. This flexibility can make a reintroduction process more acceptable to apprehensive stakeholders. The reintroduction process, by its nature, is very inclusive. The Service has seen stronger support for conservation efforts when stakeholders are involved and have a voice in the process.

What is the process for making a decision on reintroducing species?
Any process to reintroduce a threatened or endangered species as “experimental” requires the Service to:

• Compile and analyze all new biological information, including habitat requirements, on the species;

• Review the overall approach to the conservation and recovery of the Sonoran pronghorn in the United States;

• Review actions identified in the recovery plan;

• Determine what areas, if any, might require special management or areas that should be excluded from the experimental population area;

• Write a draft environmental assessment and present alternatives to the public for review and comment;

• Review and incorporate any new information or analyses provided through the public input;

• Publish a proposed rule in the Federal Register and solicit comments from the public; and

• Finalize the environmental assessment and the rule designating an experimental population and identifying an experimental population area; thereby either authorizing the release of a species as experimental or adopting the no action alternative (not permitting the release).

How do you determine if a species is “essential or “non-essential”?
Section 10(j) provides for the designation of specific reintroduced populations of listed species as “experimental populations.” On the basis of the best available information, the Service determines whether an experimental population is “essential” or “nonessential” to the continued existence of the species. A “nonessential” designation for a 10(j) experimental population means that, on the basis of the best available information, the experimental population is not essential for the continued existence of the species. Even though a population may be determined not essential for the continued existence of a species, it may be very important to facilitate the recovery of the species, which is necessary to allow delisting of the species. Regulatory restrictions are considerably reduced under a Nonessential Experimental Population (NEP) designation.

How do you acquire species for the reintroduction program?
Individuals used to establish an experimental population may come from a donor population, provided their removal will not jeopardize that population, and provided appropriate permits are issued in accordance with Service regulations (50 CFR 17.22) prior to their removal. In many cases, individuals obtained from a donor population are bred in captivity and their offspring are used for the reintroduction.

How does a Nonessential Experimental Population (NEP) designation affect consultations?
Under the ESA, species listed as endangered or threatened are afforded protection primarily through the prohibitions of section 9 and the requirements of section 7. Section 9 of the ESA prohibits the take of endangered wildlife. “Take” is defined by the ESA as harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct.

Service regulations (50 CFR 17.31) generally extend the prohibition of take to threatened wildlife as well. For purposes of section 9 of the ESA, individual species within a NEP area are treated as threatened regardless of the species’ designation elsewhere in its range.

Section 7 of the ESA outlines the procedures for Federal interagency cooperation to conserve federally listed species and protect designated critical habitats. Section 7(a)(1) requires all Federal agencies to use their authorities to conserve listed species. Section 7(a)(2) requires that Federal agencies consult with the Service before authorizing, funding, or carrying out any activity that would likely jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species or adversely modify its critical habitat.Section 7 of the ESA does not affect activities undertaken on private lands unless they are authorized, funded, permitted, or carried out by a federal agency.

For the purposes of section 7 of the ESA, the Service treats NEPs as threatened species when the NEP is located within a National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) or National Park (NP), and therefore section 7(a)(1) and the consultation requirements of section 7(a)(2) of the ESA apply in NWRs and NPs.

When NEPs are located outside a National Wildlife Refuge or National Park, the Service treats the population as proposed for listing and only two provisions of section 7 would apply: section 7(a)(1) and section 7(a)(4). In these instances, NEPs provide additional flexibility because Federal agencies are not required to consult with the Service under section 7(a)(2). Section 7(a)(4) requires Federal agencies to confer with the Service on actions that are likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a proposed species. The results of a conference are advisory in nature and do not restrict agencies from carrying out, funding, or authorizing activities.

Where have you reintroduced species with the experimental designation?
In the Southwest, the Service has used Section 10(j) to reintroduce Aplomado falcons in south Texas and Rio Grande silvery minnows in the Rio Grande River system. In Arizona and California, the California condor has been reintroduced into the Grand Canyon country. Mexican gray wolves also have been reintroduced into parts of Arizona and New Mexico.

Why reintroduce new Sonoran pronghorn populations?
Historically, both the numbers and range of Sonoran pronghorn in the U.S. and northern Mexico have been severely reduced due to a combination of human activities and natural occurrences. In the drought of 2002, there was a major die off on both sides of the border and the remaining U.S. population was reduced by 83 percent to only 21 animals. A captive breeding facility was established at Cabeza Prieta NWR in 2003 and the Service and its partners have worked to increase the availability of emergency water sources and forage for Sonoran pronghorn.

Consequently the U.S. wild population now stands at 80-90 individuals. However, this population remains both small and restricted in range, making it vulnerable to drought, wildfires, the genetic and demographic problems associated with small populations and a variety of human-caused disturbances. The Service and the Sonoran pronghorn recovery team believe that reestablishment of two additional populations in its historic range will significantly reduced the likelihood of extinction and contribute to the resiliency and persistence necessary to recover Sonoran pronghorn so that they no longer need the protections of the ESA and can be delisted.

Will the experimental population impede on any local border security operations?
We do not expect that an experimental population will impede any border security operations. The first population to be established under this rule will be on the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge. Kofa is not in close proximity to the international border and is not regularly patrolled by US Customs and Border Protection.

Furthermore, potential release of Sonoran pronghorn into BMGR-East, which does occupy lands adjacent to the international border, would only occur after the Service has achieved strongly positive results from the agency’s recovery efforts. The Service does not anticipate reaching that point for at least 5 years and probably longer.

The Service and US Customs and Border Protection have a positive working relationship along the southern border and we do not anticipate establishment of a non-essential, experimental population of Sonoran pronghorn on BMGR-East will create any impediments to border security efforts. The Service is committed to continuing to coordinate closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other partners before implementing release of Sonoran pronghorns.

When will the final rule become effective?
The final rule designating an experimental population will publish in the Federal Register on May 4, 2011, and become effective on June 6, 2011, designating any reestablished Sonoran pronghorn populations as an “experimental, nonessential population” – a designation under the ESA allowing for greater management flexibility in reintroducing new populations within the species’ historical range.

Where can I get more information?
The full descriptions of the release plans and locations, environmental assessment, Finding of No Significant Impact (NEPA) and experimental population rule are available at http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/Library/ or http://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/arizona/Sonoran_Pronghorn.htm or by contacting the Refuge Manager, Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, 1611 N. Second Ave., Ajo, AZ 85321, Telephone 520-387-6483.

To learn more about the Service’s Endangered Species program, please visit: http://www.fws.gov/endangered/.

Osama bin Laden dead

President Obama announced tonight the death of terrorist Osama bin Laden has been killed. Many are feeling a sense of closure after the long almost ten years is suffering. Please offer prayers for our troops abroad, their families, and those who lost loved ones on 9/11.