Business, Local, News

Board of Supervisors Names Top Candidate to Fill District 3 Vacancy in 2024

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FLAGSTAFF — At their regular meeting on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) concluded the District 3 vacancy process by unanimously naming their top candidate to serve the remainder of retiring Supervisor Matt Ryan’s term.

After brief comments regarding the candidates, interviews, and selection process, the Board named Adam Hess of Bellemont to represent District 3. 

“We feel Mr. Hess is the best candidate to hit the ground running in this very short appointment,” commented Jeronimo Vasquez, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 2. “His leadership experience from his military service and his desire to return to where he grew up and serve his community will enable him to represent District 3 immediately upon official appointment.”

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 4-8, 2023

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Artist in Residence ‘Pop Up’ Event, Saturday, December 9

On Saturday, December 9, from 2-4 p.m. a pop-up exhibition will feature the work of GCC Artist in Residence, Annie McCone-Lopez and Grand Canyon Summer School children. The event will be held at the Park Headquarters building with an artist talk at 2:30 p.m.

Annie McCone-Lopez will be exhibiting an eight-foot hand painted Mayan codex that represents her take on the water crisis in the Southwest. During her time in residence over the summer at Grand Canyon, McCone-Lopez also worked with Grand Canyon Summer School to create codices based on the same theme. The student codices will be displayed alongside Annie’s.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, News

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Support F3’s End-of-Year Appeal

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As 2023 draws to a close, we hope you will
make a donation in support of the work we
have done this year and will continue in 2024.

F3’s Community Impact!

*F3 brought citizens’ questions & concerns about the
hospital move to the City beginning in February. F3
joined the no campaign & is a big reason why Prop 480
was voted down by 72% of the voters!

*F3’s 2023 Voter Guide to the City’s Propositions
played a significant role in educating residents of the
meaning & impact of the 19 Charter amendments.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Health, Local, News, salud

The NAU Review — A revolution in forestry, getting to know a professor who earned her doctorate and how PA students are closing the healthcare gap

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Researchers from the Ecological Restoration Institute and School of Forestry are part of a national effort to create consistent and accurate models to predict different aspects of forest health. The National Scale Volume Biomass models are an innovation in forest biometrics introduces advanced models for accurately predicting the size and carbon-storing capacity of American forests, playing a key role in combating climate change and guiding sustainable forest management efforts.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Subscribe today for latest e-newsletter

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Winter Recreation Updates and Safety

Much of Coconino County is a winter wonderland! Parks and natural areas offer great winter recreation opportunities. Strap on your boots, snow shoes, or cross-country skis, and enjoy the trails. Make snow forts and snow people. Have a (safe) snowball fight. Enjoy the beauty of nature in the snow, whether birdwatching or walking in the trees.

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Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Happy Holidays from your friends at CCC&Y

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By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth would love to wish you a happy and joyful holiday season.

During the next few weeks our regular weekly e-newsletter will be taking a break as we look to give it a fresh look in the coming year.

And we want your help!

Please CLICK HERE to submit your suggestions to help us better design a weekly e-newsletter that better meets your needs in 2024.
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Read More

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Business, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — Capturing conversations, getting to know a PT professor and where to volunteer

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Capturing language, one conversation at a time

Between school papers, social media, texts, news reports, speeches, blogs and podcasts, Americans record billions of words in a year. But billions more are lost—the language we use in conversation among friends and family, to the grocery clerk or Uber driver and our walking partners. Researchers in the Applied Linguistics program are leading the creation of the largest-ever corpus of American English conversation, which could change what we understand about this most basic register of language.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Sedona Arts Center — Celebrate Sedona with the Big Gay Art Show on Dec. 6

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Join us at Sedona Arts Center on Wednesday, December 6, from 4-6 pm for Celebrate Sedona and the opening of our annual exhibition—The Big Gay Art Show! The event is free and will be held in the Theatre Studio and Special Exhibitions Gallery at the Art Barn with free parking in our lower lot.

In addition to the exhibition, attendees will enjoy an evening of festive music by DJ Shondra, food and drinks, door prizes, and a Holiday Market with one-of-a-kind items by CJ Henderson, Denize Katzen, Susan Moody, Victoria Norton, Jillian Sander, Sedona Incense Company and Iris Yang, and entertaining bits and curiosities by Arizona’s Hip Historian Marshall Shore.

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Business, Education, Family, Local, News, Technology, Youth

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Local Science Spotlight: Science and Storytelling with Nicole Walker

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Discover the captivating intersection of science and storytelling in the heart of Flagstaff, Arizona as local writer and educator, Nicole Walker, unravels the hidden secrets of the coastal redwoods. In a recent blog post, Nicole tells us about the intriguing exploration of resilience, shedding light on the ability of redwoods to utilize decades-old carbon for rejuvenation after wildfires, a topic inspired by her personal experiences with the annual fire concerns in Northern Arizona.

Visit our website to read the full article!

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Business, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

County Plows & Facilities Ready for Season’s First Snow

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COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County is ready for the first snowstorm of the 2023-2024 winter season, which is forecast to hit Northern Arizona late Wednesday and continue into Saturday.

Public Works crews are geared up to keep County roads open and passable during the storm and the Facilities Management Department is preparing County buildings for cold and icy conditions. 

The National Weather Service in Bellemont has issued a Winter Weather Advisory beginning Thursday at 5 p.m. through 5 a.m. Saturday. According to the advisory, total snow accumulations between 2 and 8 inches are expected, with snow falling as low as 5000’ and hazardous impacts occurring above 7000’. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 27-Dec. 1, 2023

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North Rim transitions to winter operations; Hwy. 67 closed at Jacob Lake

Beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday, November 30, the North Rim was closed to all vehicle traffic for the winter. State Route 67 and all services on the North Rim are expected to re-open on May 15th, 2024 (subject to change). 

As in years past, the North Rim campground will be available for winter camping and is accessible via hiking inner canyon trails from the South Rim or by hiking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing 45 miles from Jacob Lake. To camp at the North Rim during the winter months, visitors need a backcountry permit, which can be obtained in advance through the South Rim Backcountry Information Center. 

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Business, Government, Local, News

Board of Supervisors Conducts Interviews With District 3 Candidates

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The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) met in special session (Nov. 29) to continue the process of filling the upcoming vacancy in District 3.

During the public meeting the Board conducted thorough interviews with the five remaining candidates who have applied to fill the vacancy through 2024. Two candidates who did qualify to fill the vacancy removed themselves from consideration prior to today’s session. 

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Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News

The NAU Review — A new report lays out the current state of climate change, reserve your tickets for the Presidential Speaker Series and Louie’s Cupboard needs your help

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Several experts from NAU contributed to the Fifth National Climate Assessment, a report that synthesizes the research and expert opinions of hundreds of scientists from throughout the country. The report breaks down the research by region and topic and addresses land and resource managers, policymakers and the general public, with the goal of educating Americans about how they are experiencing the effects of climate change and the steps we must take to mitigate effects in the future. “It is imperative that our society and our various communities continue to learn and discuss the impacts of climate change on our regional and national communities,” said ITEP director Nikki Cooley, who co-authored a chapter on human health. “The report brings together a large group of people who work every day in their fields that are affected by increasingly disastrous events such fire, flooding, drought and more.”

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Business, Elections, Government, Local, News, Politics

Consolidated Election Results Canvass Approved by Board of Supervisors

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The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) met on November 21, 2023, to review and approve the canvass of the 2023 Consolidated Election in Coconino County.

This year, Coconino County Elections and the County Recorder’s Office administered a ballot-by-mail election for seven jurisdictions in the County. 

In preparation for Board approval, Coconino County Recorder Patty Hansen, Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget, and Elections Director Eslir Musta presented comprehensive information about this year’s elections operations, voter registration statistics, voter turnout and statistics, ballot drop-off box usage, and signature verification standards.  

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Business, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Final Public Notice – Museum Fire Post-Fire Flood Mitigation Cedar Avenue

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FLAGSTAFF — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) proposes to provide federal financial assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to the City of Flagstaff (sub-applicant), located in Coconino County, Arizona, to upgrade an existing concrete box culvert (proposed action). Pursuant to Executive Order 11988 (Floodplain Management), Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands), and FEMA’s implementing regulations at Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations Part 9, FEMA hereby provides interested parties with a notice of its final decision and an explanation of the alternatives that were considered.

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Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Your membership, donations support the work of CCC&Y

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We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.

The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.

When you become a member of CCC&Y, your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.

CCC&Y is building an inclusive movement of people dedicated to transforming and healing our communities.

Through leadership, education and advocacy. By becoming a member you add your name to an expansive list of individuals, families, businesses and organizations who are igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Please visit Membership Options

Make an Online Donation 

Remember, CCC&Y is a non-profit organization with a 501(c)(3) status-so your contributions are tax deductible eligible. Please consult your tax professional. 

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Health, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — Measuring biodiversity, Humans of NAU with a former track athlete and giving back this Giving Tuesday

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Measuring biodiversity across the U.S.—with space lasers
Diverse ecosystems support the web of life and in the process, provide food, water, medicine and materials for humanity. But the butterfly effect tells us all things are connected. So, when biodiversity loss threatens the foundation upon which we live, what does that mean for the future of Earth and humanity? NAU research professor Chris Hakkenberg is taking a necessary step to finding a solution to biodiversity loss: mapping and measuring biodiversity across the U.S. using NASA’s space-borne lidar.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Local, News

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Support F3 Today on Giving Tuesday!

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Join the Giving Tuesday global movement and support your local nonprofits!

Your end-of-year donation will go directly toward supporting F3’s on-going work as we continue to be fully integrated into the decision-making processes of our community, educating and advocating for a livable, sustainable, affordable, and climate resilient Flagstaff.

F3 attends all City Council meetings and we speak directly to Council about important policy and on-the-ground decisions that relate to our Focus Areas.* We seek accountability and transparency from our local local leaders through meeting with city staff and individual council members and we participate in local and regional planning efforts including the development of the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045, which will be a major focus of our work in 2024.

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Family, Government, Health, Local, News

Pile burns planned this week north of Munds Park

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FLAGSTAFF  — The Flagstaff Ranger District plans to conduct large pile burns tomorrow through Friday in two different areas about two miles north of Munds Park or 13 miles south of Flagstaff.

The Horse Park pile burn is comprised of approximately 1,200 acres of slash piles just north of Munds Park, near Forest Road 700.

The Willard Spring pile burn consists of four acres worth of forest debris and grass within Willard Spring pit just west of Interstate 17 near the Willard Springs exit.

Smoke may impact areas such as Mountainaire, Kachina Village and I-17 around the pile burns but is forecast to move toward the north/northeast through the day.

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Business, Commentary, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Local, News, Youth

Flagstaff STEM City — Invest in the Future Today

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STEM is more important to our community – and our world – than ever before. Hardly a day goes by when STEM is not in the headlines: artificial intelligence, climate change, space exploration, breakthroughs in medicine, and much more.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are nearly 10 million workers in STEM occupations and this total is projected to grow by almost 11% by 2031, more than two times faster than the total for all other occupations.

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Business, Commentary, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Museum of Northern Arizona — Give the Gift of Learning & Discovery

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Your support is critical to growing and sustaining MNA’s work. In 2023, we: 

Opened three new exhibitions;  
Welcomed nearly 2,000 students on school visits;  
Shared the MNA collections with hundreds of members of the public;  
Provided over 200 researchers with in-depth access to collections;  
Hosted numerous educational events that connect visitors with the art, science, and culture of the Colorado Plateau through authentic experiences;
And so much more!

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Local, News, Youth

United Way of Northern Arizona — Supporting Youth (and Families) on Giving Tuesday

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On Giving Tuesday, we come together to support the causes that matter most to us.

This year, I’m asking you to join us and create more opportunities for our communities in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache County to step up for our youth by supporting not only our children, but those who take care of them as well.

An underlying aspect of many of the programs we manage or fund is about being a partner to the parents and guardians who are raising the next generation.

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Business, Education, Finance, Local, News, Technology, Youth

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Your support (on Giving Tuesday) nurtures a future scientist!

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This year marks our 35th anniversary, and we’re gearing up for an even better Science in the Park. With Giving Tuesday right around the corner, will you make a contribution towards Science in the Park?

Families get to experience 50 unique science demonstrations—physics, chemistry, and more! What’s more, youth-focused vendors participate at no cost, so every child can join in.

Imagine the impact: your support nurturing a future scientist or STEM professional. Your donation creates ripples of inspiration that last a lifetime.

Ready to be part of something amazing? With your help, we’ll reach our $5,500 goal. The Festival Board has generously offered a one-to-one match up to $1,000! Make your gift online by December 2 and it will be doubled! Or, send us a check to: 2700 S. Woodlands Village Blvd. Set 300 – 284, Flagstaff Arizona 86001!

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Business, Cultural, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Sedona Arts Center — Holiday Sale In Our Gallery Shop!

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Holiday Sale in our Gallery!
10% OFF Any Purchase in our Gallery* November 24 Through December 31, 2023 *Get 10% off any purchase of $100 or more in our Uptown Art Gallery through December 31, 2023! Current SAC Members receive an additional 5% off.

*Excluding Bronze Sculptures and Special Exhibitions. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax (an almost a 10% savings!)

Use coupon code HOLIDAY10 at checkout when shopping online.
(discount not available for workshops, classes or special exhibitions

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Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Local, News, women, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Partners ready for GivingTuesday

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By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

CCC&Y partners are taking an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and programs throughout Northern Arizona by being part in the annual GivingTuesdaymovement on Nov. 28, 2023.

CCC&Y partners who are participating in our GivingTuesday promotional effort include:

Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation — Donation link
Flagstaff Festival of Science — Science in the Park — Donation link
We believe GivingTuesday is a perfect fit for our mission: “We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.”

Wishing everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving and a fantastic GivingTuesday celebration.

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Finance, Health, Local, News, Youth

United Way of Northern Arizona — Wishing You a Happy Thanksgiving

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We couldn’t do it without you.

We are United in Purpose 365 days a year, and together we are stepping up for youth and our community in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties. We are promoting early childhood education, positive youth development and the safety and security of our friends and neighbors in our local communities.

This Thanksgiving we are more grateful than ever for your friendship, partnership and support.

Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday,

Liz, Christine & Elaine

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Happy Thanksgiving, from your friends at Sedona Arts Center

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We have so much to be thankful for here in this beautiful land of the red rocks.

Mostly I am thankful for all of you who make it possible for us to do this amazing work on behalf of more than 1,000 artists throughout this state and nation. If not for you, Sedona Arts Center would not exist.

While we are working hard to bring workshops, classes, exhibits, programs and events to you throughout the year, we continue to need your support. Now more than ever.

As a thank you, we are offering a 10% discount in our Gallery Shop from November 24 through December 31.

And please be sure to check out our Contemporary Surrealism exhibit up now through November 30 (it’s received fantastic reviews) and stay tuned for Celebrate Sedona on December 6 – which will be a holiday dance party -and the opening of the Big Gay Art Show.

On behalf of all of us at Sedona Arts Center,
I’d like to wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving
and wonderful holiday season.

Again, thank you.

Warmly,

Julie A. Richard
CEO

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Business, Cultural, Family, Government, Local, News

Coconino National Forest seeks public input on proposed trail enhancements on Red Rock Ranger District

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SEDONA  — Coconino National Forest is seeking public input and comments on proposed trail enhancements at specific locations within the Red Rock Ranger District that would add approximately 39 miles of non-motorized trails and re-route and naturalize other trails.

The proposed locations fall within and near the communities of Sedona, Village of Oak Creek and Cornville and would include 24.42 miles of non-motorized trails, adopting 14.8 miles of user-created routes, and naturalizing 10.14 miles of user-created trails. The specific locations include the Turkey Creek System, Bell Rock Area Bypasses, Cornville School Trail, Doe Mesa Loop, Hardline Trail, and Scheurman Trail Connector.

These proposals are the result of years of planning after a strong public demand for improved and enhanced trailhead access, options, and experiences.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — NAU cross country concludes best season, results from the Thanksgiving poll and a free telescope viewing

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Following a historic season, both NAU cross country teams placed second at the NCAA National Championships: the women scored 124 points and the men scored 71 points. Along with being the best team finish in school and conference history, this also is the first time the women have placed three athletes in the top 20. This is the eighth consecutive year that the men finished in the top two at the national meet.

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Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety, women, Youth

Coconino NF accepting applicants for 2024 Women in Wildfire Boot Camp

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FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will host a Women in Wildland Fire boot camp in April of 2024 for individuals interested in exploring a career in wildfire and is currently accepting applications.

Boot camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting through sessions conducted both in the classroom and in the field.

Class work will consist of online training modules, where participants will learn about wildland firefighting strategy and safety.

During field training, participants will follow guidelines set by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group to explore firefighting as a career in a hands-on way.

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Government, Health, Local, News

Large grant awarded to improve watersheds, manage invasive species on Coconino NF

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FLAGSTAFF — On Tuesday (Nov. 14), the American Conservation Experience (ACE) was awarded a large America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC) grant to conduct important watershed improvement and invasive species management work for up to four years on Coconino National Forest.

The $1,755,900 grant included a grant amount of $1,404,700 with matching funds of $351,200 and will employ two specialized six-person crews to perform the work.

The crews will remove and treat invasive species on 1,000 acres as well as deliver 15 miles of instream and riparian restoration. They will do this through the removal of failed culverts, channel stabilization, installation of rack or log structures and the reduction of non-functioning flow diversion features.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Sedona Arts Center announces UPCOMING School Offerings

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UPCOMING School Offerings
Taking Classes and Workshops on our campus in Uptown Sedona affords the opportunity not only to explore the arts, but also to meet new people and immerse yourself in the Sedona arts community. We also have a variety of online workshops as well.

Besides what you see in this email, there are more offerings on our website. 
Click here to see all of our classes and workshops.

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Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Coconino High School students celebrate el Día de los Muertos with second annual shoebox ofrenda competition

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FLAGSTAFF — Spanish language and English learning students at Coconino High School celebrated el Día de los Muertos with their second annual shoebox ofrenda competition. The winners were selected this week with students and others voting throughout the month.

“This contest is an innovative way for our students to express their creativity and learn about the cultural significance of Día de Los Muertos/Day of the Dead,” said teacher Francy Solarte. “As a school committed to fostering cultural awareness and artistic expression, we are enthusiastic about providing our students with such opportunities.

“The Day of the Dead Mini altar contest is a competition where students create beautiful and meaningful altars using a shoe box,” Solarte said. “They can pay tribute to a family member, pet, or person who has contributed to society. They also write an altar dedication in Spanish and their home language. This is an interdisciplinary project between Spanish classes and English Language Learners classes. We exhibited the mini altars at the library starting November 2nd and we closed with a parent night on November 8th. The school community and parents had the opportunity to visit the exhibition and vote for their favorites.”

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Business, Education, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, News

City of Flagstaff and Coconino County to host open houses (Dec. 2, 9; Jan. 16) for the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045

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FLAGSTAF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County invite residents to participate in Scenario Choosing Open Houses for the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045. These open houses are centered around how the region should approach growth to address uncertainties and opportunities that may lie ahead. This is a once-a-decade opportunity to shape the future of our community.

The open houses will be available in both an online and in-person format. To participate in the open house virtually, visit bit.ly/scenariochoosing from Nov. 16, 2023 to Jan. 19, 2024. Information on the in-person open houses is provided below. Attendees may sign up in advance for childcare at in-person events at flagstaff.az.gov/RegionalPlan2045.

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Education, Family, Finance, Local, News, Youth

United Way of Northern Arizona — Healthy Bodies, Healthy Futures

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The need for programs that encourage physical health have never been more essential for our region’s youth than now.

According to the United Health Foundation, only 16.8% of Arizona children between the ages of 6 and 17 are physically active for an hour a day. The latest report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation indicates that 31% of children 10 to 17 in the state are overweight or obese.

Part of stepping up for our youth includes ensuring our kids make healthy choices – from the foods they eat to putting down their devices for a while and getting active.

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Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Coconino County Seeks Applicants for Commission on Trial Court Appointments

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The Commission on Trial Court Appointment Nominating Committee for Coconino County Supervisorial District 2 is seeking non-attorney applicants for the Trial Court Commission.

For more than 40 years Arizona citizens have benefited from a judicial merit selection and retention system. Merit selection is a way of choosing judges that uses nonpartisan commissions to investigate and evaluate applicants for judgeships. The commissions then submit the names of at least three highly qualified applicants to the Governor. The Governor appoints appellate court judges statewide and trial court judges in Coconino, Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties from lists of nominees submitted by the judicial nominating commissions. 

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Business, Commentary, Education, Finance, Government, Local, News

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — The Advantages of a Thriving Economy

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As Ioanna Morfessis, President & CEO of IO, Inc., recently put it: “Economies don’t remain static; there is no stasis. They either grow and progress or they regress.”

Morfessis and Danny Court of Elliott Pollack & Co. co-authored the recently released Strategic Plan created on behalf of ECoNA to outline a roadmap for the region’s economic future.

Their reporting indicates that Northern Arizona faces a major decision: whether the region’s economy will continue to remain competitive or if anti-growth sentiment will lead to stagnation and possible economic erosion.

Read more →

Business, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Coconino County Emergency Management Assists the State of Hawaii Response to Maui Wildfires

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Coconino County Emergency Management recently assisted the State of Hawaii in response to the August wildfires on the island of Maui.

As a result of the devastating wildfires that impacted Lahaina and Upper Kula on Maui, officials in Hawaii have been coordinating response and recovery efforts with local and federal partners. Through this coordination, Hawaii activated the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC). EMAC is an all-hazards, all disciplines mutual aid compact that allows states to share resources and provide assistance to one another during times of disaster. 

As a signatory to EMAC, the State of Arizona received requests from the State of Hawaii for trained subject matter experts to assist with disaster operations.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 13-17, 2023

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InterTribal Economic Summit recap

Last week, the park hosted the Emergence Summit, the second Grand Canyon InterTribal Economic Summit. More than 60 participants were in attendance including Tribal vendors, tour operators, entrepreneurs, partners, and park staff. The purpose of the summit was to discuss ways the park and its many partners can best work together to improve economic benefits for the park, private companies, Tribal partners, nonprofit partners, and the surrounding communities.

Keynote speaker Natasha Hale (Navajo and Saudi Arabian and pictured above), cofounder of Change Labs, offered lessons from her 15 years of experience supporting Native entrepreneurs and economic equity on the Colorado Plateau.

“To move past these wrongs, we still have to keep talking about them. But I think we’re all eager to move past it,” said Hale. “That’s what Emergence is about – we want to be able to co-manage these lands, but we also want to be able to have access to that economic power.” 

You can learn more about the summit from Grand Canyon Trust’s website here.

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Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Government, Local, News, Youth

District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — October/November 2023 District 1 Newsletter

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IN THIS ISSUE:
Accessibility View
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October/November 2023
District 1 Newsletter
cover.jpg
In This Issue
Letter from the Supervisor
Supervisor Horstman Appointed to Resource
Advisory Council for Arizona Bureau of Land
Management Lands
County Flood Mitigation Projects Nearing
Completion
Rural Ground Water Management Community
Discussion
County Supervisor Association Holds Annual
Summit in Coconino County
Introduction to the Coconino County Criminal
Justice Coordinating Council
Vice President Harris’ Fight for Our Freedoms Tour
Visits NAU
County FCD Director and National Wildlife
Commissioner Lucinda Andreani Report to
Congress
Govenor Appoints Two from Coconino County to
Arizona Arts Commision
Fort Valley Sign Installed
Dia de Los Muertos Celebration
United Way of Northern Arizona Campaign Kickoff
for 2024
Family Food Center, Thanksgiving Stuff the Bus
Community Events and Resources

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Business, Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — Meet the Gold Axe Award winners, NAU’s newest Elder Cultural Advisor and the Grand Canyon’s astronomer in residence

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Honoring our elites
Two students in the Class of 2023 were awarded the President’s Prize, NAU’s highest honor for undergraduates, and more than 20 other students were recognized as Gold Axe winners or Distinguished Seniors at a ceremony Tuesday night. The awards, which recognize excellence in the classroom, in research and in life, are one of the highlights of the year for senior leadership; in a video presentation, President Cruz Rivera said he always appreciates the opportunity to brag about the students and experience the sense of joy and accomplishment felt by the award winners and their families, friends and mentors who have supported them throughout their collegiate career. 

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Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, women, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Partners getting into the GivingTuesday spirit

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By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

CCC&Y partners have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and programs throughout Northern Arizona by taking part in the annual GivingTuesday movement on Nov. 28, 2023.

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to support your effort by providing links to your organization and donation pages in our upcoming weekly e-newsletters.
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CCC&Y partners who are participating in our GivingTuesday promotional effort include:
Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation — Donation link
Flagstaff Festival of Science — Science in the Park — Donation link
Still time to join our GivingTuesday spotlight effort.

We believe GivingTuesday is a perfect fit for our mission: “We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.”

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Events, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Prescribed burn on Observatory Mesa planned for Nov. 15

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FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department on Observatory Mesa on Wednesday, Nov. 15. The burn will target approximately 168 acres. Resources on scene will include two type 6 engines, one type 3 engine, two utility task vehicles with water pumps, the Bear Jaw Wildland Crew and the Flagstaff Fire Department Wildland Crew.

Residents and visitors can expect smoke to be visible in the area. Smoke is expected to drift in a north/ northeast direction during the day over the Coconino Estates neighborhood and the area north of the hospital. At night, smoke is expected to settle in and around Thorpe Park. The Observatory Mesa FUTS trail will be closed between Road 515 and Road 515A. Recreators should avoid the area.

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Family, Food, Government, Health, Local, News

Take the survey and inform Flagstaff’s food system

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FLAGSTAFF — Now through Dec. 18, the City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office and Flagstaff Foodlink are surveying the greater Flagstaff region to better understand community members’ experiences with the local food system. Input from all community members is needed to improve food access and distribution, agricultural opportunities, and more. Flagstaff Foodlink is offering a gift card raffle to those who complete the survey!

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Family, Health, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — Meet NAU’s elder cultural advisors, find out what’s happening in engineering research and how NAU is contributing to rural resilience

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(Paul) Long, who is from New Mexico, comes from a line of medicine men and is a medicine man himself. Growing up, his father taught him to be balanced—to know and practice the traditional beliefs and way of life but also to understand western life and education. 

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Business, Education, Government, Local, News

Flagstaff Regional Plan Update – Nov. 2023 Newsletter

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The first Regional Plan Committee meeting will introduce members, review Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045 update milestones, and establish procedures and roles for the committee.

The official agenda for the meeting can be viewed here.

The meeting can be attended virtually via Zoom by clicking this link.

A recording of the Regional Plan Committee meeting will be uploaded shortly after the conclusion of the meeting.

To provide feedback regarding meetings, please email RegionalPlanCommittee@flagstaffaz.gov.

Learn more about the Regional Plan Committee: https://flagstaff-regional-plan-2045-flagstaff.hub.arcgis.com/pages/regional-plan-committee

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Business, Family, Food, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Grand Canyon National Park ALERT: Roaring Springs System Failure to Meet Water Treatment Requirements

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GRAND CANYON, AZ — During the early morning on Thursday November 9, 2023, our water system did not provide adequate levels of chlorine in the water being used from Roaring Springs.

As a result, our water was not disinfected as the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) requires. Therefore, our water system violated a treatment technique standard for maintaining adequate disinfection for water delivered to customers from Roaring Springs. As our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct this situation. After this problem was identified, Operators immediately notified the State Drinking Water division and Grand Canyon started the process to identify the source of the failure. The source was identified, and adequate chlorination was restored on Friday morning, November 10, 2023.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Finance, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez September-October Newsletter

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Editor’s Note — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and www.AmigosNAZ.com wishes to thank District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vazquez and the Coconino County Board of Supervisors for their support of the 20th annual Celebraciones de la Gente, held Oct. 21, 22 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Attending the closing ceremony, above, was Supervisor Jeronimo Vazquez and family. Your continued support was very much appreciated.The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente was also supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts, the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Also — Message from Jeronimo
Board Opens Application Portal to Fill District 3 Supervisor Vacancy when Supervisor Matt Ryan Retires
District 2 Highlights
Coconino County Services and Programs
Community Events & Resources
And more!

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Seniors, Veterans, women, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 6-10, 2023

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Rock Your Mocs Week November 12-18

As part of Native American Heritage Month, next week is Rock Your Mocs Week, when Indigenous people across the country show their cultural pride by wearing traditional moccasins.

Moccasins are not always worn in public by Indigenous people. They hold special significance and are most often worn for ceremonies and other cultural events. During Rock Your Mocs Week, the National Park Service encourages Indigenous employees to take pride in their heritage by wearing moccasins. A flyer for this week can be found here.

Grand Canyon National Park is proud to celebrate Native cultures and traditions by helping to share their rich histories and ongoing contributions to our park and our country.

So rock those mocs!

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Government, Local, News, Veterans

The NAU Review — New research opportunities for veterans, big news in for NAU’s research and taking a peek into the library’s Native American collection

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Breaking barriers for veteran student researchers 

The Student Research Opportunity Grant helps military-connected students pursue their research goals. The grant of up to $6,000 was established by the Veterans and Military Service Office and Office of the Vice President for Research with the goal of creating more representation of student veterans in research fields. 

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Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Maid Fire currently 942 acres, 55% contained

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FLAGSTAFF  — Firefighters continue to work on containing the Maid Fire on Apache Maid mountain just southeast of Interstate 17’s Stoneman Lake exit and are hopeful to reach full containment within the next several days.

The Maid Fire is currently 55% contained on the northern and eastern flanks of Apache Maid mountain, and firefighters continue to work on containing the western and southern sides of the 942-acre wildfire.

Firefighters are utilizing a full suppression strategy, and all burnout operations have been completed. As containment increases, resources will move to a monitor and patrol status in the coming days.

Fire behavior has largely been moderate but continues to smolder in remaining heavy dead and down fuels, and limited pockets of leaf litter. Occasional increases in intensity are observed as the fire creeps into available fuels.

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Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Prescribed burn project cancelled (Nov. 8) due to unfavorable conditions

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FLAGSTAFF — Mogollon Rim Ranger District fire managers have cancelled today’s Sawmill Project southwest of Mormon Lake due to unfavorable wind conditions that would negatively impact powerlines, the highway, and surrounding communities.

The 3,000-acre Sawmill project was originally scheduled to be completed over the course of the week from Nov. 6-9 but was modified to focus attention on a smaller 1,000-acre section today as winds and conditions were forecasted to keep smoke away from powerlines and surrounding communities. With the change in today’s conditions, this project will be postponed till a later date when conditions are more appropriate.

The Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy aims to increase prescribed fire and other treatments across the landscape to improve forest resiliency for generations to come.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Finance, Government, Health, Local, News, women, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y partners urged to start planning for GivingTuesday (Nov. 28)

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COCONINO COUNTY — CCC&Y partners have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and programs throughout Northern Arizona by taking part in the annual GivingTuesday movement on Nov. 28, 2023.

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to support your effort by providing links to your organization and donation pages in our upcoming weekly e-newsletters.

We believe GivingTuesday is a perfect fit for our mission: “We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.”

Individuals and for-profit organizations throughout Northern Arizona are looking for an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of families in the region and as stated by the founders of GivingTuesday: “Generosity is uplifting, generative, equalizing, and connecting.”

So if you are a member partner of CCC&Y, please send your information, donation links, stories and photos to Frank X. Moraga, outreach coordinator, at frank@coconinokids.org

We would love to include you in our growing list of GivingTuesday participants this year.

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Cultural, Education, Events, Health, Local, News, Technology, Youth

The NAU Review — A new microscope, STEM art and November’s Inclusive Insights

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A whole new world
Most microscopes, common in labs, are limited to magnifications of about 1,500 times. NAU’s newly acquired transmission electron microscope can easily achieve magnifications of up to two million times, giving students and researchers the ability to study samples like never before, opening up their eyes to a world previously unknown.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — Celebrating Native American Heritage Month, honoring our veterans and predicting the future of water based on the past

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Celebrating ancestry, traditions and impact

NAU, which sits on lands sacred to Native American tribes, will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a plethora of culture-oriented events which will run through Nov. 30. Events include Stew Fest, a basketball game against SAGU Indian College, meetings with NAU’s Indigenous elders and more. “We are honored to share about our legacy and ways of being with our communities,” said Ann Marie Chischilly, vice president of Native American Initiatives. 

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Business, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

New Podcast Series Highlights Tribal Connections to Grand Canyon

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GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – In celebration of Native American Heritage month, Grand Canyon National Park is proud to announce the release of a new podcast series focused on Indigenous perspectives and the people who have called the canyon home since time immemorial. On November 3, 2023, the park released seven episodes of “Grand Canyon Speaks.”

During the summer of 2023, park staff created an interpretive program called “Grand Canyon Speaks,” which features live in-person conversations between park rangers and members from the 11 traditionally associated tribes of Grand Canyon. The program is one of many parkwide efforts to include Tribal members, voices, and culture in public outreach and education. Over 1,500 park visitors from all over the world attended the live events.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Veterans, Youth

The NAU Review — Celebrating Native American Heritage Month, honoring our veterans and predicting the future of water based on the past

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NAU, which sits on lands sacred to Native American tribes, will celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a plethora of culture-oriented events which will run through Nov. 30. Events include Stew Fest, a basketball game against SAGU Indian College, meetings with NAU’s Indigenous elders and more. “We are honored to share about our legacy and ways of being with our communities,” said Ann Marie Chischilly, vice president of Native American Initiatives.

Read more →

Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, women, Youth

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

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Message from Mary –

November is Native American Heritage Month, an opportunity to spread awareness of Indigenous history and contemporary Native issues. At the Museum of Northern Arizona we share and celebrate the Indigenous peoples of the Colorado Plateau year-round, both in our exhibitions and through special programs. This month we have a panel discussion about Indigenous foods with a Diné chef and a performance by a group of young Native dancers who have earned international recognition. Both programs are rooted in tradition while being contemporary and relevant – an appropriate reflection of Indigenous peoples and culture today.

A visit to the Museum is always a good way to learn about Native American Heritage, this month and year-round.

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Business, Commentary, Education, Entertainment, Events, Government, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 30-Nov. 3, 2023

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We commemorate and celebrate Native American Heritage Month throughout the month of November to recognize the important contributions Indigenous people have made and continue to make to the country and to the Grand Canyon. This year’s theme is Celebrating Tribal and Indigenous Sovereignty and Identity. Tribal sovereignty ensures that any decisions about Tribes about their property and citizens are made with their participation and consent. The federal trust responsibility is a legal obligation under which the United States “has charged itself with moral obligations of the highest responsibility and trust” toward Indian Tribes.  

Grand Canyon National Park is built on Native lands, and although we cannot change the past, we can change the present and ultimately the future by strengthening our relationships with the associated tribes and the land we all share.

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Business, Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Family, Food, Government, Health, Local, News, Youth

Coconino County Parks & Recreation November 2023 Update

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Culinary Class: Holiday Side Dishes

The holiday season is quickly approaching! Time to spend time with friends and family, start thinking about defrosting the turkey, and cracking out the side dish recipes. This special holiday focused culinary class will teach you how to make a variety of classic Thanksgiving side dishes such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, mac and cheese, and grilled brussels sprouts.

This cooking class will be held on November 19, noon-3:00 p.m., at the Fort Tuthill County Park Mess Hall in Flagstaff, AZ. It will be taught by our incredible culinary instructor, Willa McAuliffe.

The cost for this program is $25* for Adults (18 and older) and $15* for Youth (8 – 17 years old).

Pre-register here.

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Business, Local, News

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Become a F3 Member in 2023!

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The Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) Board of Directors invites you to become a member of our local grass-roots nonprofit.  If you are already a member, we hope you will pass this letter on to friends who you believe may be interested in supporting F3’s work.

F3 is a grassroots, multi-issue organization whose mission is to achieve a sustainable, just, and thriving Flagstaff through community education, engagement, and advocacy.

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Variety of Día de Los Muertos continuing this week including — ‘Coco with Cocoa’ on Nov. 1 and other NAU events through Nov. 3, Dia de Los Muertos Celebration in Camp Verde on Nov. 5

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FLAGSTAFF — In celebration of Dia De Los Muertos, we will be watching the movie Coco, decorating sugar cookies, and drinking hot cocoa.

Date: 11/01/2023

Time: 05:30 pm- 08:00 pm

Location: IMQ Center

Free to all

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Theatrikos Theatre Co. November Newsletter – Christmas Show and 2024 Season

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A Christmas Carol: A Twisted Musical Comedy Opens November 24, the day after Thanksgiving.
“This is not your Grandmother’s A Christmas Carol,” said show director and Theatrikos Executive Director Chris Verrill. “Theatrikos’ A Christmas Carol: A Twisted Musical Comedy is inspired by the most popular form of theatre in the UK. And we’re bringing it to Arizona. Our version of this holiday classic is interactive. It’s a crazy comedy. It’s a musical; with songs that are parodies of popular music. It’s hilarious. You’ll have a fun Christmas time and you’ll leave clap happy in the end!”

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Commentary, Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Local, News

Bilingual report — Gina Santi Photography — Images of the Month – November 2023

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Since the early Middle Ages, Europeans feared that phantasms, ghouls, and spirits somehow found their way back to earth and do harm to people, animals, and crops during Halloween. Igniting protective fires and torches and tolling the town’s church bells were especially important on this night to whisk off the mischievous entities.
 
William Shakespeare brilliantly depicts the Christian beliefs about witches during those times: the three nameless witches in Macbeth embody wickedness, obscurity, madness, struggle, and have a twisted sense of scruples. Using this curse, they warn Macbeth of his upcoming troubles:

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Business, Family, Government, Health, Home, Local, News, Public Safety

City of Flagstaff announces Winter parking restrictions begin Nov. 1

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FLAGSTAFF — Winter parking restrictions will begin on Nov. 1 and will remain in effect until April 1. During this time, parking on city streets and alleyways is prohibited from midnight to 7 a.m.Winter parking restrictions allow the City to thoroughly plow the streets during snow events and remains in effect even if it is not snowing to aid in street sweeping.

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Business, Elections, Government, Local, News

Return Your Voted Ballot for Nov. 7 Jurisdictional Election Now

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FLAGSTAFF — The November 7 Jurisdictional Election is a ballot-by-mail election, so all registered voters residing in the City of Flagstaff, Sedona-Oak Creek Joint Unified School District, Ash Fork Joint Unified School District, Grand Canyon Unified School District, Pinewood Sanitary District, Williams Hospital District, and Highlands Fire District should have received their ballots. 

The Coconino County Recorder’s Office reminds voters that their voted ballots for the November 7, 2023, Jurisdictional Election must be received no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day.  Voters should put their voted early ballot in the mail no later than Tuesday, October 31, to ensure that it is received in time to be counted.

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Business, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Coconino NF prescribed fire outlook: Week of Oct. 30

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When: Oct. 31 or Nov. 1
Where: Along Fort Valley Road 1 mile west of Basecamp at Snowbowl
Why: As part of a Northern Arizona University project to burn a small piece of land on a five-year rotation to further study prescribed fire. This area was last burned in the fall of 2018.
Size: 3 acres
Method/ type of burn: Broadcast and maintenance
Duration: 1 day
Smoke impacts: Light smoke impacts may be felt on Highway 180.
Closures/ restrictions: None

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Cultural, Education, Entertainment, Events, Local, News, Youth

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces says ‘Thank You’ to everyone who supported and attended the 20th Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 21-22, 2023 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

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FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces this week offered a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported and attended the 20th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21 and 22.

This year’s event featured the return of the ever-popular InTlanextli Tlacopan Aztec Fire Dancers and Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff performing on both days of the festival in the Branigar/Chase Discovery Center, along with daily performances in the historic Jaime Golightly Courtyard by El Charro Bohemia.

The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente was supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts. Additional Premier Sponsors include Coconino County District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

The event celebrated the history and culture of Mexican, Mexican American and Latin@ communities in Northern Arizona at this annual fall event, which will include music, dance, food and heartfelt remembrances.

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