20th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente will be held at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 21-22.
Discover fall events with Flagstaff 365 — Celebraciones de la Gente Oct. 21-22 and more event
Category: Business
City of Flagstaff to host flooding community meetings Oct. 30 and Nov. 2
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is hosting two flooding community meetings this fall to discuss ongoing infrastructure projects, flood modeling, winter preparations and short-term mitigations, as well as answer questions from residents.
Prescribed fire projects continuing on Coconino NF throughout week
FLAGSTAFF — Prescribed fire projects will continue on all three districts of the Coconino National Forest throughout the rest of the week.
Prescribed fire projects are an important part of landscape restoration work being conducted in accordance with the Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which aims to improve forest resiliency and reduce the risk of high-intensity wildfire in northern Arizona.
Prescribed fire projects are conditional and subject to change if wind and weather conditions are not met.
Sedona Arts Center — Festival Volunteers Needed!
Volunteers needed for the
19th Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival!
Sedona Arts Center invites you along to be inspired and experience master artists painting in the Shangri-La of the Southwest! The Sedona Plein Air Festival is a week-long celebration of extraordinary landscapes, world-renowned artists, unique workshops, and wonderful free events from October 20 through 29, 2023!
Sedona Arts Center needs volunteers for multiple positions during the festival: Canvas Stampers, Exhibit Installation assistants, Catering Support, Parking Lot Attendants, Certified Bartenders, Setup and Break Down Crew, Main Street Artist Support Crew, Gallery Attendants, Airport Artist Support, Community Paint Out Volunteers
Put your waste in the right place during the Fall of Reuse!
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office invites you to celebrate the changing seasons through a series of opportunities focused on preventing and diverting waste from the landfill throughout October and November. Read on for details about upcoming Drop-off Day, Fix it Clinic, and Pumpkin Drop events.
United Way of Northern Arizona — Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
For the past month, we as a nation have celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, a time of recognition for the many contributions made by the Hispanic and Latino community in the United States.
Because of my own background and family roots, this annual appreciation has particular meaning for me, but it should also resonate with all northern Arizonans. According to the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts statistics for 2022, 15% of Coconino County residents are of Latino or Hispanic descent. In Navajo County, it’s 12.3% and 7.2% in Apache County.
Celebrations like Hispanic Heritage Month confirm our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, which is important to our youth, so that they can develop a strong sense of self-worth and belonging.
We hope you enjoy learning more about Hispanic Heritage Month below.
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 9-13, 2023
Annular Eclipse October 14
This coming Saturday, October 14, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the annular solar eclipse somewhere between 8 and 11 in the morning, with peak visibility at 9:30.
This will be a very rare type of eclipse referred to as a “ring of fire” eclipse, in which the moon aligns directly with the sun so that only the outer edges of the sun are visible, creating the appearance of a ring of fire in the sky. It won’t be a total eclipse in Grand Canyon, but pretty close – about 86 percent.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO LOOK AT THE SUN WITHOUT SUN-VIEWING GLASSES. PERMANENT EYE-DAMAGE WOULD RESULT.
You can stop by the South Rim Visitor Center Saturday morning and grab some free Sun-viewing glasses to see it. Solar telescopes modified to protect your eyes from the sun will also be set up at Mather Point.
Coconino County — Ballots Mailed for the Nov. 7, 2023, Special Election
FLAGSTAFF — Ballots for the Nov 7, 2023, Special Election have been mailed to all eligible registered voters. This is a ballot-by-mail election so 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 will be receiving their ballots in the next few days.
NAU Review — A metaphorical hike through a national monument, celebrating I Love Yarn day with a craft and Fit it in a Minute with Laura Umphrey
In 2009, NAU created the Southwest Virtual Museum, which put artifact exhibits, virtual tours and 3D imaging of the iconic prehistoric sites of northern Arizona online to allow anyone, anywhere to explore the art, history and lifestyles of the many Indigenous cultures of the U.S. Southwest. A grant from the National Park Service is funding the creation of a 3D model and virtual tour of one of the crown jewels of that prehistory—the Island Trail at Walnut Canyon National Monument, including the 9-Room Site, the largest and most intact site open to the public.
Discover Flagstaff — NAU Symphonic Band Concert, Ardrey Auditorium – NAU on Oct. 13 and more events
Enjoy Kurt Weill’s Concerto for Violin and Winds performed by NAU Faculty, the NAU Wind Symphony and the NAU Symphonic Band. 7:30 p.m
City of Flagstaff Water Conservation program wins 2023 WaterSense® Excellence Award
FLAGSTAFF — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has honored the City of Flagstaff with a WaterSense Excellence Award for the City’s work promoting WaterSense and water efficiency in 2022. WaterSense, a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the EPA, is both a label for water-efficient products, programs, and homes and a resource for helping consumers learn about ways to save water.
Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Join Us (Oct. 11) for a Webinar on Prop 480
You are cordially invited to join us tomorrow for a special webinar on Prop. 480, the citizens of Flagstaff’s referendum on the re-zoning of the proposed Northern Arizona Hospital site. The re-zoning of the site was approved by the Flagstaff City Council earlier this year.
This Arizona Civic Exchange (CivEx) event, which will be held from 2 – 3 p.m. (MST), is being sponsored by the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership, a part of the Flinn Foundation. The webinar is being presented in conjunction with the Northern Arizona Leadership Alliance Community Civility Project.
Coconino County Supervisor Matt Ryan Announces Retirement
Coconino County Supervisor Matt Ryan, who has represented District 3 for 27 years, has submitted a formal letter to his colleagues on the Board of Supervisors (Board) indicating his intention to retire from the Board effective Dec. 31, 2023.
District 3 includes the Town of Williams, portions of Flagstaff and Sedona along with Kachina Village, Mountainaire, Munds Park and other unincorporated communities in southwestern Coconino County.
Full closure of Columbus Avenue scheduled for Oct 12 and Oct. 20
FLAGSTAFF — As part of Phase II of the 2023 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program, a full closure of Columbus Avenue between N Humphreys Street and N San Francisco Street is scheduled on Thursday, Oct. 12 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. to allow for asphalt work. Beaver Street south through Columbus Avenue will remain open with flaggers. Early warning message boards and detours will be established, however travelers should expect delays in the area.
Still Fire at 9,101 acres, firing operations on hold
HAPPY JACK — Fire managers are pausing firing operations on the Still Fire for the next several days due to predicted rain and humidity but are hoping to resume those operations later this week when weather conditions allow.
The Still Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).
During the pause on firing operations, crews will continue to hold existing line while also preparing the fire area – including areas along Highway 87 – for firing operations.
Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Workshops/Classes in Sedona!
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.
Still Fire at 7,781 acres, smoke impact to continue
Smoke impact will linger despite a pause on Highway 87-adjacent firing operations on the Still Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction.
Smoke impact will remain noticeable along Highway 87, in the Blue Ridge communities, the Little Springs area, and possibly in the Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Pine, Strawberry and Payson areas.
Smoke will settle into low-lying areas overnight.
Driving conditions in the fire area may remain hazardous, and possible intermittent closures may be implemented along area roads, including Highway 87, for public safety.
United Way of Northern Arizona — Recommitting to Positive Youth Development
focus to Stepping Up for Our Youth and Communities, we have successfully rallied around early childhood development with programs like KinderCamp™ and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
This year with our annual campaign theme of United in Purpose – 365 Days a Year, we are recommitting to the goal of also supporting programs and initiatives that promote positive youth development and refocusing our efforts on a comprehensive approach that encompasses our youth from birth through early adulthood.
From the desk of:
Liz Archuleta
President & CEO
At our annual campaign kickoff last week, I had a chance to provide a detailed vision of how United Way of Northern Arizona can support our community and partners to foster opportunities for our youth at all ages. I envision it as a circle where we as a community wrap ourselves around our youth and can step in at any point of a youth’s development and make a difference.
Discover Flagstaff — First Friday ArtWalk, Heritage Square
Stroll throughout Downtown Flagstaff to see and purchase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, ceramics, and more! 6:30 p.m.
North Rim Transitions to Day Use Operations Beginning October 16, 2023
GRAND CANYON — Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim will begin day-use operations on October 16, 2023. Grand Canyon Lodge will close and no overnight accommodations, including camping, will be available to visitors to the North Rim. Visitors exploring the North Rim on, or after, October 16 should plan to be self-sufficient and bring enough food and water for the day.
The following services will be available:
The self-serve gas station, including diesel, will be available for as long as State Route 67 is open. It will only accept credit and debit cards.
After October 31, water will only be available at the North Rim Backcountry Information Center.
Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s VOTER GUIDE to Flagstaff Propositions: November 2023 Special Election
Flagstaff’s Special Election is November 7, 2023. This is a Ballot-by-Mail Election and there will be no polling places on Election Day. All registered voters in the City of Flagstaff will automatically receive a ballot in the mail approximately three weeks prior to election day. You are able to check your voting status here.
F3 has thoroughly reviewed the 20 propositions that will be on the ballot and we have created a Voter Guide to this year’s election. The summary of the Voter Guide is available in graphic form below. A description of the propositions, accompanied by F3’s reasoning for our voting recommendations, are provided on our website.
Nineteen of the propositions on the ballot are proposed amendments to the City of Flagstaff Charter. The City Charter is the basic law of a city as established by a majority of voters. The Charter defines the powers and functions of the city and serves as the foundation of government for the city.
Phase 2 of the Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project Begins This Week
COCONINO COUNTY — The Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project, a $5.4 million joint effort of the Coconino County Flood Control District and the Coconino National Forest, will enter its second and final phase of construction.
The Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project, a $5.4 million joint effort of the Coconino County Flood Control District and the Coconino National Forest, will enter its second and final phase of construction as contractors begin channel stabilization in roughly 4 miles of upper Schultz Creek.
The Schultz Creek Watershed is one of nine watersheds that were badly burned during the 2022 Pipeline Fire. Post-wildfire flooding and erosion through Schultz Creek contributed to repeated flooding and destructive sediment deposition in downstream Flagstaff neighborhoods.
City of Flagstaff — Update on City Road Repair and Street Safety Phase II
FLAGSTAFF — Phase II of the 2023 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program is well underway as crews work to complete the work prior to winter. Crack sealing operations have been completed throughout the project area.
During the week of Oct. 2, work to replace damaged concrete will continue on Columbus Avenue and N Switzer Canyon Drive with lane shifts present. Asphalt work will also take place during the week of Oct. 2 on S Fremont Drive, W Mars Hill Road, S Babbitt Drive and N Switzer Canyon Drive.
Coconino County Parks & Recreation October 2023 Update
Autumn in Coconino County
Autumn is a special time in Coconino County. From sunflowers to golden aspens, the landscape changes colors and welcomes many migratory animals. Coconino County parks and natural areas are great for autumn enthusiasts!
From wildlife watching to enjoying autumn gardens, Coconino County parks and natural areas have options for everyone.
The NAU Review — What to know about NAU Health, Domestic Violence Awareness Month and getting to know Haida Tafolla
On Friday, President Cruz Rivera announced the creation of NAU Health and its flagship project, a new College of Medicine focused on preparing primary care physicians to serve in rural and underserved regions of the state. Part of the Arizona Board of Regents’ AZ Healthy Tomorrow initiative, NAU’s College of Medicine is in direct response to the critical shortage of healthcare providers throughout the state. NARBHA Institute Vice President of NAU Health Julie Baldwin will lead the work, which also includes the creation of a College of Nursing and elevating health professions education in already established programs in the College of Health and Human Services. We know you have questions. Click the links below to learn more.
Voter Registration Deadline for the Nov. 7, 2023, Special Elections is Oct. 10, 2023
COCONINO COUNTY — 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 are holding Special Elections on November 7, 2023. The November 7 Special Elections are being conducted as ballot-by-mail elections. All registered voters in these jurisdictions will automatically be mailed a ballot and there will not be any polling places on Election Day.
Sedona Arts Center — FREE TALK (Oct. 3) – Arts Participation for Healthy Aging
Join us for a special talk featuring Heather Mulder, Associate Director Outreach Research at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute/ Banner Sun Health Research Institute.
Research shows that participating in the arts may improve health, cognitive function, memory and improve self-esteem and well-being. Heather will share her expertise and knowledge and how she has seen innovative programming increase the quality of life for people living with dementia and those who care about them. Q and A to follow along with an update from our CEO, Julie Richard, about Sedona Arts Center’s development of a new Creative Aging Program. This talk is free and open to the public.
Sedona Arts Center Workshop Spotlight
Powerful Plein Air with Krystal Brown
Tues – Thurs, Oct 17 – 19
If you want to paint effortlessly – Free from stress and better able to let the magic flow, this is the place to start. You will come to understand how to create more comfortably, confidently and joyfully while learning all the tips and techniques that have taken me years of cultivation. No more guessing! No more uncertainty! No more fear! Just SUCCESS. You are invited to paint in oil or water soluble oil if possible!
Krystal W. Brown is a fine art oil painter who captures the places, people and moments that matter most. She is an award winning artist who specializes in fine art oil paintings and commissioned portraits.
District 1 Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman Appointed to Arizona Resource Advisory Council
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors is pleased to announce one of their members, Supervisor Patrice Horstman representing District 1, has been appointed by Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to serve on the Arizona Resource Advisory Council.
The Council is a 15-member statewide advisory council, which provides advice and recommendations to the Bureau of Land Management on resource and land management issues for approximately 12.1 million acres of federal surface and 36 million acres of subsurface mineral estate in Arizona.
Coconino County Leadership Contributes to National Wildland Fire Commission Report
COCONINO COUNTY — The Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission released their report to Congress this week, urging “swift action to advance the holistic solutions needed to reduce the risk of wildfire to the nation.”
The Commission, which included Coconino County Deputy Manager and Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani and a bipartisan group of 52 other leaders from governmental, tribal, scientific, private industry and nonprofit backgrounds, spent the last year conducting a “sweeping review” of the wildfire system in the United States. The fruits of this review have now been released in a report that includes 148 recommendations for Congressional action.
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up Sept. 25-29, 2023
Superintendent’s Corner: UPDATE-Potential Lapse in Appropriations
The federal government, including the National Park Service, is currently funded through midnight September 30. We remain hopeful that Congress and the President can agree on a budget or continuing resolution that would keep the government open.
Based on my time in Washington, I know that a lot of people in the Administration and in Congress are working to fund the government. However, if we are not funded by Sunday and there is a resulting lapse of appropriations, we will begin to significantly reduce operations of the federal government. We have experience in implementing an orderly shutdown, most recently in 2018-19.
If you are a resident of Grand Canyon, you will be able to stay in your assigned housing in the event of a lapse. Family and friends will be able to visit you, and you will be able to come and go from the park as you normally would. For those of you concerned about your personal finances if you do not get paid during a shutdown, Congress passed a law in 2019 requiring backpay for federal employees after a shutdown. You will get paid.
City of Flagstaff announces scheduled lane closures on Lake Mary Road
FLAGSTAFF — Lane closures on Lake Mary Road and Anita Avenue are scheduled for Oct. 2 through Oct. 14. The closures will allow the installation of water lines across Lake Mary Road to the Home2 Suites and Tru by Hilton hotel development site at the corner of Lake Mary Road and High Country Trail.
The project will begin with the closure of the westbound lane of Anita Avenue, followed by the closure of the eastbound lane of Anita Avenue. Crews will then close the northbound lanes of Lake Mary Road, followed by the southbound lanes. Lane shifts will be in place to allow traffic to travel through the area. The work is expected to be completed on or before October 14th.
Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — View Webinars Providing Insights to 5-Year Strategic Plan
Good afternoon,
Late last month, we released our comprehensive 5-year Strategic Plan, a roadmap for economic growth in northern Arizona that was created for ECoNA by Elliott D. Pollack & Co. and IO, Inc.
Over the past few weeks, representatives of those companies have been leading a series of webinars that drill down on three key aspects of the plan: housing challenges, the local labor shed, and sectors that northern Arizona should be targeting for greater prosperity.
What’s made these webinars fascinating is not only the in-depth analysis provided by Danny Court and Ioanna Morfessis, the principal authors of the roadmap, but also the insightful questions from webinar participants as we study where northern Arizona is now – and where we want to be headed.
District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler latest news — Navajo Broadband Conference Oct. 16-17
BUILDING A CONNECTED NAVAJO FUTURE
NAVAJO NATION BROADBAND CONFERENCE
OCTOBER 16-17, 2023
SAN JUAN COLLEGE, HENDERSON CENTER,
FARMINGTON, NEW MEXICO
The NAU Review — A new simulation lab, HR Professionals Day, video about Arizona’s water supply and a look back at NAU history
A state-of-the-art simulation lab, including high-fidelity simulation manikins, is giving students in health care programs unparalleled learning experiences in their fields. The lab allows students to mimic patient care before they actually get into internships and work with real patients. The manikins recently were used in an athletic training exercise as well; dressed in football uniforms and set up in the Skydome, student athletic trainers put into practice techniques they may one day use on real players on the sidelines of a sporting events.
District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter
Dear District 5 Residents,
As the morning air becomes cooler and more refreshing, it signals that autumn has arrived. Use this opportunity to enjoy a bountiful harvest with your loved ones. Next month is the Navajo New Year -Gháájí, which means ‘The joining of season.’ It is a time for harvesting and getting ready for the upcoming season. This year, preparing for inclement weather during the colder seasons is crucial. It’s critical for our communities to take essential measures to ensure safety, security, and structure. Before traveling, please seek weather advisories. Start preparing your homes for the cold by weatherizing them for safety and comfort.
Coconino County Treasurer Statement on 2023 Tax Season
COCONINO COUNTY — Property tax notices will be mailed out the week of September 24, 2023. Property owners may view their property tax information online at the County Treasurer’s website, www.coconino.az.gov/treasurer.
In August of this year, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) approved and adopted the 2023 property tax rate schedule for all taxing jurisdictions within the County.
Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Workshops/Classes in Sedona!
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.
CCC to receive up to $4 million to attract male high school students to higher education
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Community College has received the largest donation in the college’s history to attract male high school students to higher education.
A private donor has offered the college $1 million per year for four years to achieve the goal.
“This transformational gift will allow us to blaze a new path forward and open the doors of higher education for students who may not have been considering going to college,” said Dr. Eric Heiser, President of CCC. “With the resources that this gift will provide, we will be able to focus specifically on those male students who have not re-engaged with community college since the onset of the pandemic.”
City of Flagstaff — Full nighttime closure of Cedar Avenue planned for Sept. 25 – Sept. 27, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
FLAGSTAFF — As part of the Spruce Wash Improvements Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project Utility Phase, crews will be installing sewer utilities across Cedar Avenue, necessitating a full nighttime closure of part of Cedar Avenue on Monday, Sept. 25 through Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. This work is being performed through the night to maintain the safety of the traveling public and construction crews, while allowing for the high-volume flow of daytime traffic along Cedar Avenue.
The following traffic impacts are expected:
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 18-22, 2023
Federal agencies need appropriations to operate. You may have seen news accounts as we approach the new fiscal year of the possibility of a lapse in appropriations, which would lead to a government shutdown. Based on my years as the senior appropriations lawyer for the Department of the Interior, I can tell you that a lot of people in the Administration and Congress are working hard to avoid a shutdown.
The Park Leadership Team and I are watching this situation closely along with our regional and Washington office colleagues. We will be ready if there is a shutdown.
I understand that many employees depend on their biweekly paycheck to meet their families’ expenses and there may be some anxiety about the possibility of a shutdown. In case it helps, in 2019, Congress passed the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act ensuring full pay for federal employees during government shutdowns. Everyone will be paid, and retroactive pay will also reflect what is typically withheld from checks such as rent, insurance and retirement contributions.
For the time being, park operations are continuing as normal, and we encourage you to check on our park website at www.nps.gov/grca for the most up to date information on park operations. As we get additional information from the Department, we will keep employees and residents updated through this newsletter and the weekly employee, community, and stakeholder call. Thank you to all employees who have been fielding visitor questions and concerns over the last several days; it is important work that you do.
Discover Flagstaff — Keynote Presentation: The Mammoth World of Science, Ardrey Auditorium – NAU on Sept. 22
Join Dr. Beth Shapiro, pioneer in ancient DNA, as she unveils the science and ethics of de-extinction in a captivating keynote presentation. 7 p.m. Free. (Editor’s note: Part of 10-day Flagstaff Festival of Science Sept. 22 through Oct. 1, including Science in the Park at Wheeler Park on Sept. 23)
City of Flagstaff Housing Section Notice of Funding Availability Homeless Shelter and Services Funds
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Housing Section is pleased to announce the availability of Homeless Shelter and Services Funds (HSSF), made available by the City of Flagstaff with funding from the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH), for programs that provide shelter and services to unsheltered persons who are experiencing homelessness.
The City of Flagstaff will prioritize proposals serving unsheltered persons who are impacted by one of the following challenges: the ruling on Freddy Brown, et al. v. City of Phoenix (court decision to clear and clean “The Zone”); the expiration of the Public Health Act (Title 42) as it pertained to the border between Arizona and Mexico; or the closure of sober living homes and residential facilities.
Local First Arizona — Rural Insider highlights ‘Snowdrift Art Space’ in Winslow
Turning Canvas into Comfort: How One Arizona Couple Made Art Their Residence
A ramshackle historic building in downtown Winslow has been transformed by an artist and his wife into a vibrant and eclectic live-work gallery space — a hidden gem along Route 66.
The 22,000-square-foot building now known as Snowdrift Art Space offers the room he always dreamed of having as a young budding sculpturist.
CREATIVE AGING at Sedona Arts Center
Fulfilling arts experiences enliven your body, mind, and spirit and spark imagination. The therapeutic benefits of regularly partaking in meaningful arts activities are endless and this is especially important as we age. A 2006 landmark study by the National Endowment for the Arts confirmed the relationship between creative expression and healthy aging. Over the course of three years, the Creativity and Aging Study tracked more than 300 individuals (aged 65+) across the country to evaluate the effects relevant to general health, mental health, overall functioning, and sense of well-being in older individuals. What were the results? Better health, fewer doctor visits, and less medication usage; more positive responses on mental health measures; and more involvement in overall activities. From painting, poetry, and pottery to music, theatre, and dance, it was clear. The arts are great for your health!
District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — August/September 2023 District 1 Newsletter
Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Grand Canyon National Monument-Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni
Short Term Rental Ordinance Passed
County Strengthens Dark Sky Zoning
Lowell Observatory Reaches for the Stars with Astronomy Discovery Center
It’s Time for Rural Groundwater Management
Flagstaff Community Meeting on Spruce Watershed/ Museum Fire Update
Senator Sinema Meets to Discuss Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection
Tusayan Experiences Unprecedented Rainfall and Flooding
Mountain Line Bus Awarded Federal Grant for Bus Maintenance Building
Williams Senior Center Celebrates Re-opening of New Kitchen
Congressman Eli Crane Joins Flagstaff and County for Flood Mitigation Tour
Envision 2045 by Participating in the 2025 County Comprehensive Plan
Veterans Helping Veterans: Matthew J. Boehner Memorial Williams Stand Down
74th Annual Coconino County Fair
Community Events and Resources
Coconino County Board of Supervisors Honors Hispanic Community With Heritage Month Proclamation
FLAGSTAFF — At their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 12, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) unanimously adopted a proclamation recognizing September 15 through October 15, 2023 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Coconino County.
The proclamation, drafted by County Human Resources staff and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC), reads in part “Hispanics and Latinos are some of the earliest native residents of the southwestern United States and Hispanics in Coconino County were amongst the first pioneers in Flagstaff and Coconino County. Many working in the sawmill and railroad industry as an integral piece of establishing our mountain town of Flagstaff and the continued development of Coconino County.”
“It’s always our great pleasure to help celebrate the great diversity of Coconino County,” said Jeronimo Vasquez, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 2. “Being Latino, I’m proud to be a part of this tradition and feel it’s very important to take time to learn about the contributions of Latinos and Hispanics in the county throughout our history.”
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 11-15, 2023
Governor Katie Hobbs visits Grand Canyon
Governor Katie Hobbs and Arizona tribal leaders met in the park this past Tuesday, September 12, to foster meaningful dialog about Arizona’s economic development and how to best work with tribal governments and communities. Superintendent Ed Keable and Grand Canyon Conservancy CEO Theresa McMullen participated in the meeting, discussing the work the park and GCC are doing relative to indigenous programs.
The highlight for most participants was getting a tour of the work being done at Desert View to re-imagine the site as an Inter-tribal cultural heritage site.
Thanks to all who helped make this a successful visit, especially the Desert View staff and FMD folks (trails) who are working on the next phase of paving the new trail system.
You can learn more about Gov. Hobbs’ visit and its purpose on her website.
Discover Flagstaff — Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Festival, Pepsi Ampitheater (Sept. 15-16) and more events
A 3 day music festival in the cool pines of Flagstaff, AZ! Voted “BEST FLAGSTAFF FESTIVAL” for the last 5 years by readers of the Arizona Daily Sun. 10 a.m.
City of Flagstaff announces minimum wage for 2024
FLAGSTAFF — The minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase to $17.40 and $15.90 for tipped workers beginning on Jan. 1, 2024.
In 2016 the voters of Flagstaff wrote and passed The Minimum Wage Act (“the Act”) as a citizens’ initiative (Proposition 414). The Act, which is codified in Title 15 of the Flagstaff City Code, prescribes that beginning in 2023, the Flagstaff minimum wage shall be increased annually by the increase in the cost of living. Pursuant to the Act, “[t]he increase in the cost of living shall be measured by the percentage increase as of August of the immediately preceding year over the level as of August of the previous year of the consumer price index (all urban consumers, U.S. city average for all items)” (15-01-001-0003(B)). The increase shall be rounded to the nearest $0.05.
Coconino County Public Works Online Surplus Property Auction Underway
Coconino County Public Works’ Fall online surplus property auction is now underway. The auction is open to the public and features items such as used trucks, heavy equipment, and other surplus County property that has met replacement guidelines.
The auction consists of three separate periods, each of which includes approximately 15 available vehicles/equipment.
The NAU Review — Combating the climate crisis, recognizing two exceptional administrators and driving economic mobility
ntroducing the Center for Braiding Indigenous Knowledges and Science
The Center for Braiding Indigenous Knowledges and Science (CBIKS)—a five-year, $30 million international Science and Technology Center funded by the National Science Foundation— will focus on connecting Indigenous knowledges with “western” sciences to address some of the more pressing issues affecting people worldwide. The center will work on complex, evolving challenges brought on by climate change, including dire impacts affecting land, water and plant and animal life; the danger posed to irreplaceable archaeological sites, sacred places and cultural heritage; and the challenges of changing food systems, all of which disproportionately affect Indigenous communities.
Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Workshops/Classes in Sedona!
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.
Besides what you see in this email, there are more offerings on our website.
Click here to see all of our classes and workshops.
Inflation Reduction Act provides $258,000 to help protect native species in Grand Canyon National Park
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is working to remove invasive species and protect native species of fish in the Colorado River with $258,000 from the Inflation Reduction Act. This project is part of a nationwide effort to restore natural habitats and address climate change impacts.
In fiscal year 2023, President Biden’s Investing in America, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, will provide $52 million to the National Park Service to fund projects throughout the country related to ecosystem resilience, restoration, and environmental planning needs.
City of Flagstaff Neighborhood Sustainability Grants Open Sept. 1-30
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office and Sustainability Commission is pleased to announce that the annual application period for the Neighborhood Sustainability Grants Program is open from September 1st – 30th. The program inspires projects that enhance sustainability and foster community partnerships.
City begins Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project between Elden Lookout Road and Highway 180. This stream restoration project will stabilize and restore the Schultz Creek channel, which was severely degraded during the 2022 Pipeline Fire and subsequent flooding events.
Channel stabilization restores the stream bank and bed, preventing erosion from moving sediment and debris into the Rio de Flag and Frances Short Pond. Frances Short Pond received over 5,000 cubic yards of ash, sediment, and debris since the Pipeline Fire, requiring a complete dredge and repair this year. The Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project will reduce the risk of further repairs at the pond and will also help to keep stormwater infrastructure clear and flowing.
Presidential investiture ceremony at CCC Friday, Sept. 29
FLAGSTAFF — The formal investiture ceremony for Coconino Community College President Eric Heiser, Ph.D., will take place at 2 p.m., Friday Sept. 29.
“I’m excited to serve as the sixth president of Coconino Community College and to be a part of CCC’s newest chapter,” Dr. Heiser said. “As Coconino County’s community college, we know the vital role we play in providing an educated and skilled workforce to our community partners, and we take our role seriously.”
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Sept. 4-8, 2023
Water conservation measures remain in place for South Rim as tanks fill
On Tuesday, September 5, park managers implemented mandatory water conservation for the South Rim due to diminished water supplies in the South Rim holding tanks. This week, crews began to successfully pump water from Roaring Springs to the South Rim to replenish water stores. If tanks continue to fill, the NPS Water Utilities team anticipates being able to lift water conservation measures as early as next week. As a reminder, the following measures are in place for residents and all facilities on the South Rim.
County Recorder Patty Hansen Receives 2023 Leadership Award
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Recorder, Patty Hansen, has been recognized as a 2023 Leader of the Year in Government by the Arizona Capitol Times. This award recognizes her recent achievements in her position as County Recorder.
Hansen has served as the Coconino County Recorder since 2013. She has over 36 years of experience working in election administration. She is a tireless advocate for striking down barriers for voting and expanding the voting franchise to all eligible citizens.
“It’s an honor to be recognized for recent accomplishments,” said Hansen. “My name may be on the award, but it really is a recognition of the hard work of the entire team in the Recorder’s office.”
Discover Flagstaff — Marauda on Sept. 7 at The Orpheum Theater and more events
Marauda, The Orpheum Theater
Hamish Prasad, also known as MARAUDA, is a bass music producer and DJ currently based in Sydney, Australia. MARAUDA creates tearout, deathstep, dubstep, trench and melodic dubstep. 8 p.m.