Author: Tommy

Service still available with extended tax filing deadlinePhoenix AZ (June 4, 2020) – With the federal and state income tax filing deadline extended to July 15 due to the public health situation, the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division reminds customers they can still get their 2019 vehicle fee and tax information on one document online for free.

Cottonwood AZ (June 24, 2020) – UPDATE – On June 17, 2020, Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Detectives followed up on a child exploitation tip identifying a Cottonwood address where Cody Shanks resides. It was also discovered the $75,000 bond from his prior case had been reduced to $10,000 and in early March of 2020, he posted bail and was released. The information from this tip involved activity following the release of Shanks from jail. Search warrants were served to obtain further details regarding the internet account beyond the initial tip. Detectives found a video chat between Shanks and another user…

By Ted Grussing… I have heard from so many that are wondering if the aerial photos are nearing an end. Simple answer is no … I have more than ten thousand aerial shots that I have not yet processed and also I will be flying with a friend in his motorglider periodically and that will be welcome. This way I can focus completely on the photo shoot and he will focus on keeping us off the mountain … hitherto I have had to do both at the same time.

Sedona AZ (June 3, 2020) – After consulting with local County Emergency Managers and District Rangers, it has been determined that effective Wednesday, June 3rd, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. Sedona Fire District (SFD) is moving into Stage II Fire Restrictions.These restrictions prohibit all open fires, fire pits and campfires.  During the period of fire restrictions, no burn permits will be issued and existing burn permits are hereby suspended. Fireworks and other pyrotechnic displays are prohibited, unless permitted by the Fire Marshal.

Prescott AZ (June 3, 2020) – Through the Trauma Lens Care program MATFORCE understands that children from hard places often need more positive experiences to help build resilience in their lives. Therefore, MATFORCE and Catholic Charities are partnering to bring a respite summer camp to children in foster care. This camp is for current and past foster children 5- to 18-years old who have high behavioral health needs. Through this community partnership Catholic Charities is able to host the summer camp at no cost to families who participate.

Sedona AZ (June 3, 2020) – Clean up and reduce your wildfire risk by disposing of yard waste at the annual Debris Collection Event from 8 a.m. to 3 pm. on June 16, 2020 and June 18, 2020 at the city’s Maintenance Yard at 2070 Contractors Rd. Creating a defensible space within 30 feet of your home can greatly reduce the risk of a wildfire. Tall, dry grasses provide a path for fire; by removing dry grasses, leaves, excess vegetation and pine needles from your roof and gutters, you reduce fire risk. Prune tree limbs so the lowest limb is between…

By Tommy AcostaHere’s an angle on the rampant demonstrations and riots burning across the nation few are considering.Yes, they are angry, very angry and rightfully so. But not just because of the killing but also because since the inception of the coronavirus quarantine orders, the loss of income, the loss of schools, the loss of human contact, the loss of hope and the pent up anger simmering primed the population for the spectacle we are now witnessing.It was a powder keg ready to detonate and the killing of George Floyd was the fuse that lit it.

By Ted Grussing… at the end of the day, One and I spent some time out on the deck which was in shade and a light breeze to keep the perception of heat down. I would like to think that she was gazing at some prey and contemplating her attack and subsequent dining pleasure, but alas, I think that like me, the heat had gotten to her and like me she was just staring out into space and waiting for me to suggest that we head back into the house … which we did shortly after I took this picture…

Cottonwood AZ (June 2, 2020) – On May 30, 2020, around 10:30 AM., deputies were dispatched to the 3900 block of E Meadow Lane in Cottonwood regarding a threat involving 54-year-old James Kineman claiming he was going to shoot people including himself. The threat was made during a phone call to a crisis center. A quick response team consisting of YCSO SWAT members was activated and deployed around the home. James’ roommate eventually came out of the house and indicated there were firearms in the home along with the possibility a female roommate was still inside. 

By Marty Landa, Sedona Resident(June 2, 2020)Dear editor,May 31 marks the 32nd annual World No Tobacco Day, a global public health campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to expose the deadly tactics of the tobacco industry, the impacts of the tobacco epidemic it drives, and offer solutions for people to claim their right to healthy lungs and lives.As the world’s eyes are on the COVID-19 pandemic, we can’t lose sight of another deadly global epidemic: Each year, tobacco kills eight million people globally. Almost a half-million of those deaths are in the U.S.

Sedona AZ (June 2, 2020) – To ensure the safety of all patrons and slowly ease back in to a new normal, the Sedona Community Pool will reopen on Monday, June 8, 2020 for lap swim and aqua fitness classes and Monday, June 15, 2020 for rec swim. There will be added precautions such as regular scheduled sanitation times, limited amenities, reduced hours, health screenings at the gate prior to entering the facility, a separate entry and exit, physical distancing and an online check-in process to keep the community and staff safe. “We will facilitate physical distancing and strict hygiene practices…

Sedona AZ (June 2, 2020) – On May 31, 2020, around 12:45 PM, deputies were called to the Enchantment Resort in Sedona regarding failure to pay investigation in which nearly $700 dollars was owed for a room stay. The incident involved 45-year-old Stacy Accomazzo and 38-year-old Matthew Ellison. Both are from Litchfield Park, Arizona. Security officials told deputies the pair tried to extend their stay but already owed $675 for food and alcohol. Stacy and Matthew got in their car and left, flipping off cameras on the way out. An attempt to locate bulletin was issued to area law enforcement…

Cottonwood AZ (June 2, 2020) – Verde Drive-In, a new premiere drive-in movie theater, celebrates its’ first month of operation. The Verde Drive-In shows single-feature movies Friday and Saturday nights at its location in Camp Verde. Get your tickets online today!June’s movies include: Mama, Mia Pitch Perfect 3, Madagascar, Jaws, Little Rascals, Field of Dreams, Flintstones, and Jurassic Park.

By Ted Grussing… thankfully we have cameras and not shotguns when we head down to the ponds to shoot ducks … might get a little dicey in situations like this when the ducks fly behind my friend who was also shooting them. Cameras are nice … everyone gets to go home on a digital storage device and carry that device as opposed to a box.

By Dr. Linda Roemer, PH.DBoard Certified Adult/Geriatric and Psychiatric Mental Health NP(June 1, 2020)At 98 years old, she has no idea if she will live out her last days in what she describes as prison.  It seems surreal.   After all, she is in excellent health, has a positive attitude and a love for her family.  There is no end in sight for this mandatory confinement.  It could be her death.  The hour glass has little sand left.  She really misses those short trips for ice cream or a dinner out.  Most of all she misses being hugged.  During this…