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District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Weekly Update

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May 13, 2020
COVID-19 Information

CDC expands list of symptoms for COVID-19
The CDC has recently announced the expanded the list of wide-range symptoms for COVID-19. The mild to severe symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after initial exposure to the virus. The expanded list of six new symptoms is crucial for individuals who are seeking testing whom must first show symptoms.
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chills ***
  • Repeated shaking with chills ***
  • Muscle pain ***
  • Headache ***
  • Sore throat ***
  • New loss of taste or smell ***

If you have any of the emergency warning signs for COVID-19 listed below, please seek medical attention immediately.

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face

Contact your medical provider if you have any questions and concerns regarding potential symptoms. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911 and notify the operator of your symptoms. For more information on how to protect yourself and others, please visit the CDC website.
Register for AZ Testing Blitz on May 16 here
Business Help Information:
Grant funding for State, Local and Tribal Governments:
Mental Health & Well-being Resources:
Guidance: Use of Cloth Face Covers
On Friday April 3, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended wearing cloth face-coverings in public settings where other physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

The CDC advises that the use of simple cloth face-coverings may slow the spread of the virus and possibly help people who have the virus, and are asymptomatic, from transmitting it to others.  It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet physical distancing and following hand hygiene remains important to slowing the spread of the virus.  Fabric face covers are to be used in addition to these strategies.

The recommended cloth face-coverings are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators.  Those masks are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

The Arizona Department of Health Services recommends that individuals engaging in essential services who can safely manage their own cloth face-coverings should consider wearing non-medical cloth face-coverings when they are unable to appropriately physically distance themselves from others.  Accordingly, Coconino County employees may voluntarily wear a covering over their mouth and nose to help everyone stay safe and healthy and only if they can do so safely based upon their work.

Note: Cloth face-coverings should never be placed on children under age two, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the cloth face-covering without assistance. 

How to Use a Cloth Face-Covering

Cloth face-coverings must be used appropriately.  Inappropriate use or removal of the covering can increase the risk of transmission to the user and others.

  • Cover the mouth and nose with the cloth face-covering and minimize gaps between the face and face-covering.
  • The cloth face-covering should fit snugly but comfortably against the sides of the face.
  • It should be able to be secured with ties, or a head strap.
  • It should allow for breathing without restriction.  If at any point the cloth face-covering restricts breathing, discontinue use.
  • Always use the following safety protocols when using a cloth face-covering:
    • Wash the cloth face-covering before use.
    • Before putting a cloth face-covering on, clean your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer of at least 60% alcohol.
    • Do not touch your face or the cloth face-covering while in use; if you do, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer of at least 60% alcohol.
    • To remove the cloth face-covering; remove it from behind your face (do not touch the front); avoid shaking it in order to minimize the possibility of dispersing virus particles through the air; place the cloth face-covering in a bag. After removing the cloth face-covering from your face, promptly clean your hands in accordance with guidelines.
    • If you need to eat or drink while wearing the cloth face-covering, remove the face-covering while maintaining physical distancing practices. Do not pull down the cloth face-coverings to eat, drink, or talk. Always make sure to wash your hands before and after removing it.
    • Reusable cloth face-coverings should be properly laundered daily.
Reference Links For Homemade Masks:
Glossary of Terms

  • Isolation – A sick person with COVID-19 is isolated to prevent spread to other people
  • Quarantine – A healthy person who might be exposed is quarantined to prevent possible spread to other people. This person is monitored for symptoms during their quarantine
  • Surveillance – A information gathering method which watches Health Care centers and facilities for possible COVID-19 cases
  • Monitoring – A process of CCHHS contact with individuals to watch for symptoms among individuals
  • Presumptive positive – A positive case from the State lab. HHS Treats presumptive positive cases as if they are confirmed cases
  • Confirmed case – A presumptive positive case confirmed by the CDC lab. These cases are treated as positive case by HHS.

For more information, email: COVID19Information@coconino.az.gov
Office of the Governor Doug Ducey 
Executive Orders
Press Releases
Navajo Nation
For Immediate Release
Navajo Nation Public Health Orders
Download the Navajo Nation Health Command Operations Center organizational chart, HERE.
The Department for Self Reliance’s Need-Based Programs Available to Families
and Individuals, Living on the Navajo Nation, During the COVID-19 Pandemic
For Immediate Release
April 15, 2020

Window Rock, AZ – The Department for Self Reliance (DSR) is established under the Navajo Nation Division of Social Services (NDSS) to provide the Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program for eligible Navajo Nation families with minor children.

Since January 8, 2020, the following need-based programs: Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Navajo School Clothing Program (NSCP), General Assistance (GA), Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), and the Burial Assistance (BA) program have been placed under the DSR, as the Navajo Family Assistance Services (NFAS), to begin transitioning services to automation.

The DSR provides essential services, therefore staff are available at all DSR locations to answer phone calls, respond to emails, and accept TANF, BA, LIHEAP, GA, CSBG documents and applications, via drop boxes. “The DSR remains committed to serve DSR families and applicants during the COVID-19 pandemic. We will be taking precautions by not allowing Customers, applicants or the public into any DSR locations,” stated Roxanne Gorman, DSR Department Manager III.

To request for an application for any of the DSR’s services, call (866) 347-2403, email info@nntanf.org, visit www.nndss.navajo-nsn.gov or www.nnpsr.navajo-nsn.gov. Applications and documents can be scanned and emailed, mailed, or placed in drop boxes at each DSR location. For drop-off service, upon arrival call the DSR office. A DSR staff member will retrieve your documents from the drop box. All DSR services are need-based programs that require an application for services to determine eligibility for assistance.

NFAS Burial Assistance is a P.L. 93-638 program, unlike the NDSS COVID-19 Burial Assistance program, which is a separate general funded program for those who have lost their lives to COVID-19. NFAS Burial Assistance provides funds to assist with the burial expenses of deceased indigent individuals who do not have sufficient resources to meet funeral expenses. NFAS P.L. 93-638 Burial Assistance and NDSS COVID-19 Burial Assistance are available with the following contracted mortuaries:
  • Alameda Mortuary, Albuquerque, NM (505) 898-3160
  • Compassion Mortuary, Grants, NM (866) 292-0086
  • Cope Memorial Chapel, Gallup, NM (505) 722-6671
  • Cope Memorial Chapel, Kirtland, NM (505) 598-9636
  • Daniel’s Family Funeral Services, Socorro, NM (575) 835-1530
  • Desert View Funeral Home, Shiprock, NM (505) 368-4607
  • Rollie Mortuary, Gallup, NM (505) 863-4452
  • Silver Creek Mortuary, Gallup, NM (505) 371-3690
  • Tse Bonito Mortuary, Tse Bonito, NM (505) 371-5565
  • Summit Funeral Home, Saint Michaels, AZ (928) 871-1120
  • Valley Ridge Mortuary, Tuba City, AZ (928) 640-2022
The listed mortuaries are in an agreement with NFAS to provide services for individuals who qualify for P.L. 93-638Burial Assistance program and reserve the right to decline requests for services. Mortuaries not listed above, do not provide burial services in partnership with the NFAS Burial Assistance program.

Download and view news release here.

Reference Link for Burial Service Information:
DONATE NOW – NAVAJO NATION COVID-19 FUND

The Navajo Health Command Operations Center has established the “Navajo Nation COVID-19 Fund” to accept donated funds to help respond to and fight Dikos Ntsaaígíí-19, the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Navajo Nation COVID-19 Fund is accepting monetary and non-monetary donations to address immediate medical and community needs. Charitable contributions to the Fund are deductible by the donor for federal income, estate, and gift tax purposes, and written acknowledgment of donation will be provided upon request. The Navajo Nation qualifies under Section 7871(a) of the Internal Service Code for purposes of receiving public or charitable distributions.

The Navajo Nation’s immediate medical needs include N95 masks, face shields, non-latex gloves (nitrile), medical-grade gloves, goggles/eye protection, surgical and isolation masks, isolation and level II surgical gowns, Tyvek coveralls, surgical caps, shoe covers, thermometers (no touch scan), portable pulse oximeters, ventilators, hand sanitizers, disinfecting wipes and sprays, alcohol-based wipes, and others.

The community needs include disposable masks, fabric masks, cleaning supplies, liquid hand soap, hand sanitizer, toiletries, thermometers, paper products, non-perishable food, bottled water, baby necessities (formula, diapers, wipes), livestock feed, hay, pet food, firewood, coal, and others.
There are many organizations and people trying to help native communities. Here is a list of donation sites and links for SW Native Communities:
County Updates
May 6 Town Hall Video Meeting
The County hosted the May 6 town meeting to provide brief reports on the status of COVID-19 response and to engage with questions and concerns from residents. Click here to watch the public town hall video meeting concerning COVID-19.
Coconino County Participates in the Arizona Testing Blitz

On Saturday, May 2, Coconino County participated in the COVID-19 Arizona Testing Blitz. The goal of the Testing Blitz is to test as many Arizonans as possible who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19. Tests were given out all over Arizona as part of the Testing Blitz.  In Coconino County, 287 specimens were collected at the Fort Tuthill County Park testing site and the Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHS) King Street Location. Of these, 138 specimens were collected at CCHS and 149 were collected at Fort Tuthill. Collected specimens were immediately sent to laboratories to be tested. Those who tested positive will be notified this week by Health and Human services team members.

Weekday COVID-19 testing continues at Fort Tuthill County Park for those who have been recommended for testing by a doctor. Coconino County will continue to participate in the Arizona Testing Blitz this Saturday, May 9, which only will be held at the King Street location. The final weekend for Testing Blitz is Saturday, May 16. Coconino County COVID-19 information is available at www.coconino.az.gov/covid19or by calling the COVID-19 Call Center at 928-679-7300, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Board of Supervisors
The County proclaims May as Mental Health Awareness Month

On Tuesday, May 5, the Board of Supervisors proclaimed the month of May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The proclamation is dedicated to build a culture of knowledge, compassion and action for mental heath, especially in the current status of our community and world which is impacted by fear, disruption and loss due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Stronger As One and Coconino County have developed free and digitally accessible resources to support individuals and families within the community who are currently coping with physical- distancing measures to help them with the development of positive coping skills and connect them to critical resources. Death by suicide affects individuals, families and the entire Coconino County community. For more information regarding free resources available, please visit the Stronger As One website.
Krysten Sinema holds teleconference call with Arizona Mayors and County Supervisors

On Thursday, April 30, Arizona Senator Krysten Sinema held a teleconference call with Arizona Mayors and County Supervisors. The meeting discussion included SBA implementation issues, municipal lending, COVID-19 updates and retail re-opening, and a 2020 Census update.

Read the meeting overview here.
For Immediate Release
April 30, 2020
County Board of Supervisors adopts campfire ban

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors enacted a campfire ban, for Coconino County, during the board meeting on Tuesday, April 28.

The ban aligns with the United States Forest Service Southern Region campfire ban which went into effect on April 22 and includes all national forests in Arizona. Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire are prohibited throughout the County’s jurisdictional boundaries. The ban does not apply within the boundaries of the municipal governments in the County. Gas and propane powered stoves, grills or lanterns with an on/off switch are permitted.

The campfire ban will protect the health and safety of fire fighters during the COVID-19 pandemic and reduce the impact of poor air quality on those suffering from or at risk of COVID-19.

“Fire season is approaching and fighting fires is a hazardous profession that limits the ability of first responders to physically distance,” said Coconino County Chairwoman Liz Archuleta. “Campfires can lead to unwanted human-caused fires which pose a threat to our communities. We encourage residents to recreate where appropriate without campfires.”

Proactive forest restoration measures and related activities which are currently underway on
National Forest and private lands will not be impacted. The ban went into effect immediately upon adoption and will remain in effect until rescinded by the Board of Supervisors.

View campfire ban proclamation here.
Health and Human Services
For Immediate Release
April 27, 2020
Summer disease prevention recommendations

Flagstaff, Ariz. – Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) recommends taking precautions to protect yourself and your family from illnesses transmitted by insects and animals.

Summer in Northern Arizona can bring people in contact with mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, bats, skunks, squirrels, and mice. While these insects and animals are important to the Northern Arizona ecosystem, they can occasionally carry disease.

Prevent bites from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes that can carry diseases like plague, tickborne relapsing fever, West Nile virus, and Zika virus:

  • Wear shoes and socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors.
  • Use insect repellent with active ingredients such as DEET.
  • Prevent pets from roaming loose. Pets can pick up the infected fleas of wild animals, and then pass fleas on to their human owners.
  • Vaccinate your pets. Arizona State law requires all dogs to be properly vaccinated against rabies. CCHHS also recommends that cats be vaccinated against rabies.
  • De-flea pets routinely.
  • Reduce rodent habitats around your home, workplace, and recreational areas.
  • Remove brush, rock piles, junk, cluttered firewood, and possible rodent food supplies, such as pet and wild animal food.
  • Remove or empty water-holding containers outside your home, such as flowerpots, buckets and birdbaths, to reduce breeding areas for disease-carrying mosquitoes.
  • Keep insects out of your home by using window and door screens.

Outdoor recreation, such as camping, and cleaning out storage areas can pose a risk for hantavirus exposure. Precautions should be taken including:

  • Campers should not pitch tents or place sleeping bags in close proximity to rodent nests, burrows, or in areas of heavy rodent activity.
  • Before use, properly clean tents and other camping gear that have been stored where rodents may have had access.
  • If possible, do not sleep on the bare ground and zip tents closed to keep animals out.
  • Wear rubber or plastic gloves at all times while cleaning cabins, garages and areas that have been closed up for extended periods.
  • Before cleaning, open all doors and windows for at least 30 minutes.

Rabies and plague can be transmitted to humans by direct contact with an infected animal. Reduce risk of exposure by following these guidelines:

  • Do not handle or feed any wild animals, this includes dead and wounded animals.
  • Report unusual wildlife behavior to the CCHHS Animal Management Office at 928-679-8756.

In case of illness, contact your healthcare provider. Some diseases have less serious effects if treated early.

In addition to preventing diseases caused by insects and animals, it is important to protect yourself from potentially dangerous sun exposure. Northern Arizona sun is intense and can bring other risks that go beyond sunburn, including heat related illnesses.

  • Wear sunscreen in addition to clothes covering your arms, legs and a hat.
  • Stay hydrated.

For more information visit www.coconino.az.gov/health or call Coconino County Health and Human Services at 928-679-7272, toll-free 1-877-679-7272.
Law Library
Informational videos regarding COVID-19 in Arizona

Videos regarding how to be married, get a protective order, and eviction in Arizona during COVID-19. These are produced by Coconino County Arizona. Visit: https://azcourthelp.org/covid-videos
COVID-19 Court and Legal Information and Resources

Information for those looking for forms, location information, or legal resources pertaining to all court jurisdictions in Arizona. Visit: https://azcourthelp.org/covid-19/
AZCourtHelp now offering videos on YouTube
The AZCourtHelp YouTube channel offers videos on a variety of legal topics. Click here to watch the videos: Arizona CourtHelp – YouTube
Sign in to like videos, comment, and subscribe. Sign in. Watch Queue Queue
•    COVID-19: Parenting Time (Spanish and English subtitles)
•    Getting a Protective Order During COVID-19
•    Changing Child Support During COVID-19 (Spanish and English subtitles)
•    Getting Married at the Courthouse During COVID-19 (Spanish and English subtitles)
•    COVID-19: Changes to the Landlord/Tenant Law (Spanish and English subtitles)
•    Protection for Domestic Violence Victims
•    What you need to know about Subsidized Housing
•    Active Members of the Military terminating a Lease
The YouTube Channel has these Legal Talks available for those that have a bit more time:
•    Family Court 101: in Spanish and English subtitles
•    Landlord/Tenant Legal Talk: in Spanish and English subtitles
•    Adult Guardianship and Conservatorship
•    Arrested for DUI-What Happens Now?
•    Someone is Suing Me-What do I do Now? in Spanish and English
•    Lemon Laws-Guidelines to Purchasing a Vehicle
•    Order of Protection in a Custody Case
and many more videos available on Eviction, Understanding your Traffic Ticket and What Will Happen at Court.
and many more videos available on Eviction, Understanding your Traffic Ticket and What Will Happen at Court.
Parks and Recreatiom
Physical and mental fitness with Parks & Recreation
How do you practice physical and mental health? What do you focus on or prioritize? What apps or programs do you use to get and stay motivated? The month of May has brought warmer weather to Northern Arizona and many people are stepping outside to practice their physical and mental fitness. Please continue to adhere to CDC physical distancing guidelines and recommendations for visiting parks and recreation sites.

Eat healthy. Be physically fit. Practice meditation or quietness. Try out a new app like MyFitness Pal, Map Myfitness, or The Mindfulness App.

MyFitnessPal helps you track your nutrition through logging goals and meals.

MapMyFitness is a mobile fitness tracking app.

The Mindfulness App offers introductory sessions to mindfulness and meditation and more.
Community Bulletin Board 
COVID-19 Test Site for CAMERON, AZ
COVID-19 Test Site for TONALEA, AZ
Arizona Testing Blitz in Page, AZ
WHEN: May 16, 2020

HOURS: 7 AM – 7 PM (Local Time)

WHERE: 440 N. Navajo Dr., Page, AZ
FREE TESTING is for anyone who has symptoms and/or feels that they were exposed to the coronavirus.

The testing site will be set up in the parking lot of Bank of West, next door to Urgent Care.
For more information or if your symptoms worsen before Saturday, May 16, call Urgent Care at 928-645-1700. Testing is first come, first serve and while supplies last.
$119,000 allocated to Arts Council COVID-19 Relief Efforts
On March 18, the Flagstaff Arts Council launched the Non-Profit Relief Fund to support art, science, and culture nonprofits impacted by COVID-related shutdowns. With the support of a $5,000 matching grant from Flagstaff Rotary Club and donations from nearly 70 community members, $19,000 has been awarded to 15 initial organizations. Initial grants range from $250 to $2,500.

During its budget retreat on April 23, Flagstaff City Council expressed support to allocate an additional $100,000 from the BBB Art & Science Fund for Flagstaff Arts Council’s COVID-19 response efforts. $87,000 is allocated to the relief fund grant program. With the additional support, larger grants will be able to be awarded to more organizations.

ATTENTION:

Coconino County & Sedona Business Leaders
Dear Business Leader,

The Economic Policy Institute at Northern Arizona University is working with your local government and partners to examine the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions on local businesses.

Please take a moment to answer a short survey regarding the impact of the pandemic on your business.  Note that all responses are anonymous and will only be reported in the aggregate – no businesses will be identified. See link below.

Please Take the Coconino COVID-19 Business Survey

Please direct any questions you may have about the survey to the Economic Policy Institute (epi@nau.edu).

Thank you for helping our community recovery by participating in this survey!

Please respond by May 17, 2020.
To register for our FREE Four-part Marketing Webinar Series, visit our Registration Page courtesy of the Mountain Mojo Group and the Sustainable Economic Development Initiative of Northern Arizona (SEDI).

May 12, 10am – 12pm: 7 Key Components to Building a Solid Marketing Strategy
May 14, 10am – 12pm: The 10 Key Components to Building & Maintaining a Great Website
May 19, 10am – 12pm: How to be Found on Google: An Introduction to SEO
May 21, 10am – 12pm: Introduction to Social Media Best Practices and Campaign Building
The Need for Assistance During COVID-19 Crisis
Overview:

Flagstaff Shelter Services is the largest emergency shelter in Northern Arizona. They provide shelter and critical services to the most vulnerable members of our community and assist them in finding permanent housing. Anyone in crisis can spend the night, get a hot shower and food, use their computers to access job services, do their laundry and store their belongings. The shelter’s mission is to help people in crisis to move out of homelessness permanently.

In response to COVID-19:

The Flagstaff Shelter Services is currently experiencing high capacity helping those without a home and needing to shelter-in-place. The shelter is currently doing its best finding shelter for homeless COVID-19 positive patients and helping them receive the proper healthcare. They turn no one away from their services even during these times and are currently seeking help to assistant them in continuing to provide these services to the community.

For more information and to donate visit: https://flagshelter.org/

Organization and Meeting to address homeless during COVID-19:
Economic Impact Estimates of COVID-19 on Coconino County, AZ

Alliance Bank Economic Policy Institute

April 29, 2020
  CDFA-ARI Rural Finance Webinar Series:
Tools, Programs, and Opportunities Within Rural America
— Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM Central — 

CDFA is pleased to present the CDFA-ARI Rural Finance Webinar Series, a free, exclusive online series developed in partnership with the Alliance for Rural Impact to serve rural America and the unique challenges they face. This webinar series will cover both the immediate development finance solutions that communities can implement to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 as well as the tools and resources being developed to rebuild.

Upcoming Webinars 

  • Tools, Programs, and Opportunities Within Rural America
    • May 6, 2020 at 1:00 PM Central
  • Building the Road to Recovery
    • June 10, 2020 at 1:00 PM Central
  • Access to Capital and Community Facilities
    • July 8, 2020 at 1:00 PM Central
Join us on May 6, 2020, for the second installment of the CDFA-ARI Rural Finance Webinar Series, where we will continue to explore what resources are available to reduce the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on rural America.
Register
The Alliance for Rural Impact is a nonprofit organization serving rural and tribal communities across America. They are a collective partnership of technical assistance experts focused on community equity for rural and tribal regions. ARI is designed to provide all aspects of the community and economic development process utilizing a unique and comprehensive delivery methodology. ARI’s leadership, technical expertise, and on-the-ground local perspective position them to effectively bring community leaders and resources together in the Delta Region.

>>> Learn more about The Alliance For Rural Impact 

Tune in to CDFA’s COVID-19 Resource Center to stay at the forefront of the development finance community’s mitigation and recovery efforts.

Subscribe to CDFA’s COVID-19 Recovery & Relief Update newsletter for regular updates on relief and recovery financing initiatives.
The Council of Development Finance Agencies is a national association dedicated to the advancement of development finance concerns and interests. CDFA is comprised of the nation’s leading and most knowledgeable members of the development finance community representing public, private and non-profit entities alike. For more information about CDFA, visit www.cdfa.net or e-mail info@cdfa.net.
Navajo Nation Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Service:

Kaibeto Outpatient Treatment Center
For more information: http://nndbmhs.org/kaibeto/
Arizona Spirit of Travel
The Arizona Spirit of Travel video series is one way the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) is sharing the impact that COVID-19 has had on the people associated with the tourism and hospitality industries. The video series started with Michael Marquess, CEO and founder of Mother Road Brewing Company in Flagstaff. Mother Road delivers that only-in-Arizona experience that visitors want. Mother Road, and others in AOT’s video series, are representative of thousands of small businesses in communities across Arizona that rely on visitors to survive and really need their community’s support. See Michael’s video here.

Want to see other videos? Visit AZSpiritofTravel.com to see the videos and find tips on how to support tourism and hospitality businesses throughout Arizona.

Do you want to know more about the City of Flagstaff tourism and hospitality industries that are open, including restaurants? Check out the City of Flagstaff ‘s Travel Advisory COVID-19 Information and Toolkit, which includes a map.
Responsible Recreation Across Arizona
Arizona Office of Tourism has collaborated with outdoor recreation management agencies at the
federal, state and local levels to create Responsible Recreation Across Arizona, a one-stop resource
with guidelines on enjoying spectacular Arizona landscapes while adhering to COVID-19 physical
distancing guidelines.

The latest responsible recreation updates include statewide fire safety and restriction information plus
guidance on summer recreation in the state’s deserts. Many Arizonans are turning to the outdoors as a
great escape. This resource is updated regularly, so be sure and check it out!
News Release
April 21, 2020
Kaibab National Forest to offer firewood permits by phone starting May 1
WILLIAMS, Ariz., April 21, 2020 — The Kaibab National Forest will offer firewood cutting permits for the
2020 season over the phone beginning May 1. Cutting may begin as soon as permits have been received
through the mail.

Those seeking firewood cutting permits should call the following offices during the specified hours Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays:

  • Williams Ranger District – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. – (928) 635-5602
  • Tusayan Ranger District – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. – (928) 635-8223
  • North Kaibab Ranger District – 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. – (928) 643-8153
Permits will not be offered in person at office locations this year in order to protect public and employee
health during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Kaibab National Forest employees remain committed to
supporting local economies and providing home heating and other essential services to communities and
individuals already stressed by current circumstance.

To help ease the financial burdens many are already facing, the Kaibab National Forest will offer free
permits for 10 cords of wood in areas that would normally require paid permits. Paid permits will also be
available for wood cutters who intend to resell their wood for profit or for those who need more than 10
cords of wood at $2 per cord for up to 20 additional cords. The Kaibab’s 2020 firewood offerings are
different than in previous years due to the pandemic and will only be in effect this year.

“We think it is important that we do everything we can to help those already hurting,” said Heather
Provencio, forest supervisor for the Kaibab National Forest. “One way we can do that is to expand our freeuse wood areas so people have both greater access to what for many is an essential commodity as well as reduced financial hardship.”

Firewood cutters seeking to obtain a permit should call the appropriate Kaibab National Forest office. If a
service representative isn’t immediately available to take the call, customers will be prompted to leave a
message with contact information. An accredited Forest Service employee will respond to all messages by contacting customers to finalize the permit issuance process. Those seeking paid permits will need to pay by credit or debit card. No checks, money orders or cash will be accepted. Mail-in permit requests will not be able to be processed. Everyone seeking 2020 firewood permits should call forest offices to receive
prompt service.

The permits, maps and other documents important for wood cutters will be mailed via the U.S. Postal
Service. Each office location will also offer a pickup box system for those with known mail service
limitations. As soon as permits have been received, cutting may begin.

The Kaibab National Forest will also provide all firewood cutters with a detailed guide that highlights the
ecological impacts that collecting firewood can have on forest resources and describes best practices to
ensure the sustainability of these resources across the landscape and over time. Forest managers
developed the Land Steward Guide to present helpful information about firewood collection in the national
forest and foster shared stewardship of public lands.

Over the last few years, the Kaibab National Forest has consistently increased the amount of wood
available to each person for purchase while reducing the cost per cord by crediting firewood cutting for the contribution it provides to forest restoration goals. Firewood cutters perform the important ecosystem
service of removing dead and down as well as small-diameter trees, which assists in the forest’s landscapescale fuels reduction and forest restoration efforts.

The availability of firewood is critical to many local community and tribal members who use it for home
heating, cooking and other purposes. In 2019, the Kaibab National Forest provided 36,151 cords of
firewood to support these needs through paid personal, free and ceremonial wood permits. Depending on
the species and whether it is green or dry, a cord of firewood weighs one-to-two tons. In total last year, the Kaibab supplied up to 72,302 tons or almost 150 million pounds of firewood.

Detailed firewood cutting information and maps will be updated throughout the firewood season on the
Kaibab National Forest website at http://bit.ly/KNFfuelwood.

###

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
News Release
April 21, 2020
Forest Service Takes Steps to Reduce Human Caused Wildfire during Global Pandemic
Albuquerque, NM – April 21, 2020 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, Southwestern
Region is enacting a campfire ban to protect the health and safety of employees and communities
during the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning April 22, igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a
fire will be prohibited on all six national forests in Arizona until June 30, 2020, or until rescinded.

Forest Service officials are taking the necessary steps to ensure first responders are available to safely
respond and manage incidents. This campfire restriction will prevent the drawdown of fire and medical
resources to unwanted human-caused wildfires and reduce firefighter exposure to COVID-19 during the
current pandemic.

“While we know that going outside provides forest and grassland visitors needed space, exercise and
satisfaction, we are taking the risks presented by COVID-19 seriously,” said Acting Regional Forester
Elaine Kohrman. “We are providing some recreation opportunities where we can while protecting and
keeping employees, the public and our communities safe from the virus and unwanted human-caused
wildfires.”

The following is prohibited under the April 22 campfire ban order:

  • Igniting, building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, including charcoal grills and barbecues, coal and wood burning stoves.
Violating the campfire ban may result in an appearance in federal court, fines, and possible time in jail.
Forest visitors will still be able to use pressurized liquid or gas devices (stoves, grills or lanterns) with
shut-off valves, in an area at least three feet from any flammable materials. While these restrictions are
in place, the majority of the six national forests in Arizona are still open, and dispersed camping –
outside of developed campsites – and other recreation opportunities are available.

Visit the Interactive Visitor Map at www.fs.usda.gov/goto/ivm for more information on available
activities. For additional information on COVID-19, go to https://www.coronavirus.gov. Information
from the U.S. Department of Agriculture is available at: www.usda.gov/coronavirus. Information on
public lands use in Arizona is available at https://tourism.az.gov/responsible-recreation-across-arizona/

# # #

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender
The Census is a head count of every person living in the United States and is conducted every 10
years. Since 1790, the Census has determined how many representatives each state has in the House
of Representatives. In addition to representation, Census results help guide decisions on how federal
funding is allocated to states for critical public services and programs.

For the first time, the Census can be completed online, by phone or by mail. The Census asks a few
questions about how many people are living in your home as of April 1, 2020 and demographic
information such as age.

An accurate Census count for Coconino County is extremely important because the results will show
what the needs for funding are across communities in the County. The results from the 2020 Census
will impact decisions made for the next decade. To complete your Census online visit my2020census.gov.
News Regarding Arizona Unemployment:

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program
April 13, 2020
The Arizona Unemployment Team has announced major changes to eligibility requirements for benefits. The new Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program provides benefits to certain individuals who had not previously been eligible for
unemployment, or those who have been denied in the past.

PUA provides benefits to covered individuals. Covered individuals are those individuals not eligible for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits under state or Federal law. This includes individuals who:

  • have exhausted their unemployment balance,
  • are self-employed,
  • are seeking part-time employment,
  • lack sufficient work history, or
  • otherwise do not qualify for regular unemployment compensation or extended benefits under state or Federal law.
In general, PUA provides up to 39 weeks of benefits to qualifying individuals who are otherwise able to work and available for work within the meaning of applicable Arizona state statute, except that they are unemployed, partially unemployed, or unable or unavailable to work due to one of the COVID-19 related reasons identified in the
recent federal CARES Act.

Please click HERE for all of the details about the PUA Program. Please note that workforce staff are not equipped to answer detailed questions about this new program. All inquiries should be directed to staff on the Arizona Unemployment Team.
HOW TO REACH US
For those requiring assistance from our offices, ARIZONA@WORK Maricopa County is still here to help! Based on state and federal guidelines regarding strict social distancing, we offer these simple ways to reach us for assistance!
  • Go to www.maricopa.gov/findajob and submit use the SUBMIT YOUR INQUIRY button to reach out! Your question or request for help will be sent directly to workforce staff.
  • Call (602) 372-9700 (East Valley office) or (602) 372- 4200 (West Valley office) and a workforce staff member will return your call in a timely manner. We are getting a high number of calls, but please be assured we will get back to you!
PLEASE NOTE THESE WORKFORCE OFFICE PHONE NUMBERS ARE NOT UNEMPLOYMENT. WE HIGHLY ENCOURAGE YOU REACH OUT DIRECTLY TO UNEMPLOYMENT FOR QUESTIONS REGARDING YOUR CLAIMS.
CDC Recommendations For Mental Health and Coping
The CDC recognizes the outbreak of COVID-19 may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about
a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress
will make you, the people you care about and your community stronger.

Taking care of yourself, your friends and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others
cope with their stress can also make your community stronger.

Ways to cope with stress:

  • Take breaks from watching, reading or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
  • Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
  • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly & get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs.
  • Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
  • Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
For more information on how to maintain mental health and coping during this time, please visit the
CDC website.
Self-isolation Activities

Self-isolation is practiced in order to keep infected or potentially exposed individuals separated from healthy individuals. While self-isolating, stay home and quarantine yourself to a specific room in order to limit exposure to your housemates or family members.

Here are a few ideas for fun activities you can do at home while self-isolating:

  • Read a book
  • Paint
  • Start a new TV series on Netflix or Hulu
  • Video chat some friends
  • Practice yoga or meditation
  • Journal
  • Listen to a podcast
  • Clean out your wardrobe
  • Have an at-home spa day

For more information on self-isolation and social distancing, please visit the CDC website.
Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation (TCRHCC) Coronavirus 19/COVID19 Information & Updates
TCRHCC UPDATE: 
For More Information:
Tuba City Regional Health Care Cooperation:

SANE/SART/DVPI Program

Grand Canyon National Park Closed
Grand Canyon National Park is Temporarily CLOSED until further notice, due to public health concerns of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

All visitor facilities, trails, and roads including Highway 64 are closed until further notice. These closures will be in effect 24-hours a day/7-days a week. See GCNP News Release here.

For GCNP Public Health Updates: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-national-park-public-health-update.htm
For NPS Public Health Updates: https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/news/public-health-update.htm
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

Visit the Arizona Department of Health Services website of highlighted infectious diseases for Arizona for additional information about coronavirus (COVID-19).
Community Resource Link:
 Tuba City & Window Rock Resource Guide

This guide is a compilation of information provided by agencies and service providers in Coconino County. 

Coconino County District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Office

46 Maple Street
PO BOX 948
Tuba City, AZ 86045
P: 928-679-7155 | F: 928-283-6366 | www.coconino.az.gov

Questions or comments? Email us at mmorales@coconino.az.gov or call us at 928-283-4518.

You are receiving this email from Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler as a courtesy to keep you up to date and informed of the issues within Coconino County District 5. You either subscribed to Supervisor Lena Fowler’s email newsletter or your email was collected at a sponsored meeting, workshop, or other event.  
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