KNAU update for May 5 — Latinos connection to region’s diverse public lands

Latinos throughout the Southwest have a long and strong connection to this region’s diverse public lands. One group reflecting this interest is HECHO: Hispanics Enjoying Camping, Hunting, and the Outdoors. Learn more at KNAU.org.

The Second Chance Center for Animals in Flagstaff closed Monday. Officials cite funding issues as the reason. The shelter has played a critical role in animal rescue for years, not just in Flagstaff, but also on the Navajo Nation and across the Southwest. Learn more at KNAU.org.

The case against a former Northern Arizona University student accused of killing a classmate in 2015 has ended in mistrial after the jury deadlocked on the verdict. Jurors weighed a slate of charges against 20-year-old Steven Jones, including murder, manslaughter and negligent homicide but couldn’t reach a consensus Tuesday. Learn more at KNAU.org.

The North Rim at Grand Canyon National Park will open May 15th with limited services because of a broken water pipeline. Learn more at KNAU.org.

Personal belief is one of three exemptions, along with medical and religious reasons, that allow parents to send unvaccinated children to school or daycare. Yavapai County had the highest rate of personal belief exemptions for at least one vaccine, followed by Coconino.Learn more at KNAU.org.

The Navajo Council wants federal, state and county governments to ensure a clean water source for the eastern Arizona town of Sanders. It borders the Navajo Nation, and uranium in the drinking water there far exceeds federal standards. Learn more at KNAU.org.