Month: July 2017

A special meeting was held on Wednesday at the Uintah County Commission Chambers for presentations on services at the Vernal Regional Airport. SkyWest Airlines made a presentation followed by Boutique Air. While SkyWest’s history at the Vernal Regional Airport has been complicated, Vice President of Marketing Development Greg Atkin and Manager of Network Planning Mike Ostler presented to the Commission as they hope to be considered for a future contract with the airport. They explained that the last time SkyWest had to pull out of their Vernal contract it was due to increased regulations. They proposed being given the contract again and would run a morning and an afternoon flight to and from Denver. They also announced their partnership with United Airlines which they said would make for seamless connections and baggage transfers. Boutique Air also presented and outlined what they see as the difference between their luxury flight experience versus a commercial flight experience. Boutique’s contract is up in 2018. The Federal Department of Transportation put out for bids for essential air service at the Vernal Regional Airport and SkyWest and Boutique both applied. 

Basin pools, reservoirs, rivers and streams have been hot spots this summer keeping residents cool during the rising temperatures. TriCounty Health’s safety message this week is about staying safe in and around water. “If in doubt, wear a lifejacket,” shares Health Promotions Director Ferron Young, who emphasizes that life jackets are especially important while boating. More safety tips include swimming only in designated areas supervised by lifeguards or with close supervision for youth and children and ensuring that all family members learn to swim well. Be aware of each swimmer’s abilities and never leave kids unattended near water. In case of emergency, know how and when to call 9-1-1, learn how to perform CPR, and understand basics of life-saving to assist during emergencies. For more tips of water safety, visit www.tricountyhealth.com. 

West Nile Virus is present in Uintah County and residents are urged to take precautions. Officials report that there have been 5 samplings of mosquitos in Uintah County that have tested positive for West Nile Virus; one in Naples, two in Ouray, one in Pelican Lake, and one in Jensen. The Utah Department of Health has reported 5 in Salt Lake County and 1 in Box Elder County in addition so far this season. West Nile Virus is a disease carried by mosquitoes, most commonly found in Africa. The virus was discovered in the U.S. in 1999 and in Utah in 2003. Most people who become infected develop only mild to no symptoms but some people develop a serious neurologic illness. Horses are also susceptible. During West Nile Virus season, residents are asked to take precautions seriously if outside between dusk and dawn. Wear long sleeves and pants. Use a repellent with 20 to 30 percent DEET. Remove standing water and maintain screens and doors to keep mosquitoes at bay. 

Local county unemployment rates saw only small changes from May’s data. Daggett County ticked up from 4.5 to 4.7 percent unemployment, Uintah County shifted slightly from 6.4 to 6.5 percent, and Duchesne County stayed the same at 6 percent. The state as a whole ticked up during the month from 3.2 to 3.4 percent unemployment while nationally the rate went from 4.3 to 4.4 percent. 8 of the 10 private sector industry groups posted net job increases compared to a year ago. The Natural Resources and Mining industry decreased by 500 positions while the Information industry lost 400 positions. The largest increases took place in Professional and Business Services with an additional 10,700 jobs and Trade, Transportation, and Utilities with 10,000 jobs. 

The BLM announced Tuesday their proposal to rescind the 2015 rule on hydraulic fracturing, a rule that has never been in effect because of pending litigation. The BLM proposal is a part of President Trump’s goal to reduce the burden of federal regulations on economic growth and energy development. “America’s public lands offer outstanding commercial, recreational, and conservation opportunities, and energy development is one of them,” shares Katharine MacGregor, assistant secretary for Land and Minerals Management. “Maintaining positive, productive working relationships with our state and tribal partners is a top priority of this Administration. We are committed to working collaboratively with them to ensure the safe and environmentally responsible development of our Nation’s energy resources.” The proposal invites the public to offer input. Visit www.regulations.gov for more information.

A rare opportunity is available tonight in Roosevelt during the Standing With Israel event at the Roosevelt Christian Assembly. Major Elliot Chodoff from the Israel Defense Force is the keynote speaker who can present on relations in the midwest from first hand experience as one of the world’s leading experts on Counter Terrorism and the Middle East. Having Major Chodoff come and speak in Roosevelt is a big deal, shares Pastor Dee Cairoli. Pastor Dee built a relationship with Major Chodoff while on a 7-day military briefing trip to Israel  as part of his work with Christians United For Israel. “This man is the real deal,” shares Pastor Dee. “He is one of the most knowledgeable sources on counter terrorism and having him speaking here in Roosevelt is not something you will want to miss.” The presentation begins tonight, Wednesday, July 26th, at 6:30pm at the Roosevelt Christian Assembly, 870 East 200 North in Roosevelt. There is no charge to attend and all are encouraged to come. 

A fire in Dinosaur National Monument flared up on Sunday growing to approximately 260 acres. The Overlook Fire started on July 21st from a lightning strike near the Canyon Overlook on the Harpers Corner Road.The crew working on the fire consists of seven engines from multiple agencies including park service, BLM, forest service, Moffat County and Artesia fire departments. The Colorado Department of Fire Prevention and Control were also assigned with two medium helicopters in use. The air attack platform includes directing the work of four single engine air tankers aiding in containment efforts. Progress was made on containment Sunday on the west, south and east sides while the north side, which is within the monument, remains the most active as fire burns in a steep, timbered canyon containing large dead trees. The Canyon Visitor Center remains open but Harper’s Corner Road is subject to closure if the fire moves to the west. Canyon overlook remains closed until further notice. Operations of the visitor center and quarry exhibit hall have not been affected by the fire. The Overlook Fire is on National Park Service, BLM, and private land.

July can be a scary month for forest fires as the heat further dries out grasses and other flammables in the area. Add fireworks to the mix and it becomes a time in need of serious caution which added restrictions required. State fire restrictions were announced the end of June for all unincorporated private and state lands punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a hefty fine. Officials say the restrictions have helped keep the area safe this month. “We thank the state and Uintah County for being proactive and having restrictions in place,” says Uintah County Fire Marshal Jeremy Raymond. “We also thank the public for being cautious.” The holiday was pretty uneventful for fire departments with one grass fire reported in Uintah County on Pioneer Day due to an aerial firework tipping over.