Category: Local

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Vitalist Spark podcast presents ‘Systems Change Takes Time: Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth’

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

By the Vitalist Spark podcast

During this episode of the Vitalyst Spark Podcast, we will be exploring systems change and talking to 2023 Systems Change Grant recipient Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth to talk to us about their Self-Healing Community System and Policy Change in Coconino County initiative.

We will be joined by members of the Coalition, including Virginia Watahomigie, Executive Director; Becky Daggett, Mayor of Flagstaff; and Andrea Meronuck, Clinical Director with Northland Family Help Center.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter

by Community Contributor • July 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Dear District 5 Residents,

As we transition into the planting season and celebrate our graduates’ achievements, I am again reminded of the Navajo teachings of T’áá hwó’ ají t’éego, “It is up to you.” Whether preparing for uncertain times ahead or getting ready for a change in season, this teaching rings true – it is up to us to take essential steps to ensure our lives’ safety, security, and structure. In this time of preparation, Coconino County and my office are committed to meeting each of you on those steps.

For those in Coconino County who need assistance in flood preparation or mitigation, looking to sign up for important emergency alerts, browse the various health and assistance programs available from Health and Human Services, or keep up with the Board of Supervisors meetings and even watch us live, please visit our website www.coconino.az.gov. For all County resources, it is a significant first step.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Wishing You a Happy Independence Day

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2023 • Comments Off

The Fourth of July is a day to celebrate not only the anniversary of American independence, but the values that make our country great. One of those values is the importance of Living United.

Living United means coming together to solve problems and build a better future for our neighbors. It’s the sincere belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of background or circumstance. It’s knowing that when we include all members of society in shaping the solutions, our community will always be stronger for it.

Thank you for Living United this holiday – and every day.

Our offices will be closed on Tuesday, July 4.

Have a safe and wonderful Independence Day.

CCC July-August Community Education: Watercolor | Caricature Drawing | Awakening Your Creativity | DIY | Comet Walks!

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Awakening Your Creative Spirit

Wednesday, July 12, 19, 26
3:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Learn to jumpstart your creative process, whether you are just starting out with artistic expression, experiencing art block, or want to rejuvenate your journey of self-development.

Awakening Your Creative Spirit – Learn more and register!

Discover Flagstaff — July 1-3 Flagstaff Art in the Park, Wheeler Park and other 4th of July events

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Tuesday, July 4 Flag 4th Fest, Fort Tuthill County Park. Laser Light Show and family activities at Fort Tuthill County Park! Presented by City of Flagstaff. 5 p.m. Free. 928-679-8000 • flagstaff.az.gov
Tuesday, July 4 Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Independence Day Parade, Downtown Flagstaff. Show off your red, white, and blue at the parade! 9 a.m. Free. 928-774-4505 • flagstaffchamber.com

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Sneak a Peek at Upcoming Events!

by Community Contributor • June 30, 2023 • Comments Off

Many of our board members are hard at work planning more than 100 free events for the upcoming Festival, which will take place Sept. 22-Oct. 1. Reaching out across the community, they’ve invited local experts to share discoveries and insights about topics spanning the sciences, technology, and the arts. In addition to perennial favorites like Snook’s Science in the Park, Walk on Mars, open houses, guided hikes, tours, lectures, classroom talks, and hands-on workshops, events currently in the planning stages will enable participants to:

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — June 26-30

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Fire restrictions go into effect across Northern Arizona; Grand Canyon NP remains in stage 1

Beginning Thursday, June 29, Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the entirety of the Coconino National Forest and the Tusayan and Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. Additionally, all undeveloped areas of Coconino County, the Town of Tusayan, and the City of Flagstaff will also be in fire restrictions on this date.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — July 4th Festivities in Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

All across northern Arizona, there will be lots of celebrations this Independence Day. Here is a sampling of what’s happening in the region as you make your holiday plans.

In Flagstaff, July 4th will get off to a patriotic start with the annual Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce 4th of July Parade through Historic Downtown. The parade starts at 9 am, but you’ll want to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot; this is one of Flagstaff’s biggest events all year.

Later that day, the festivities take a musical turn with A Flag Fourth at the Pepsi Amphitheater in Fort Tuthill County Park. The Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra will take the stage at 3 pm for its annual pops concert. This event is perfect for all ages and free! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and sunscreen. Doors open at 2 pm.

Theatrikos July Newsletter — Comedy ‘Lend Me A Tenor’ opens July 21

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

Theatrikos Theatre Company brings the classic farce Lend Me A Tenor to the Flagstaff stage. This 9-time Tony Award nominated—with two wins!—side-splitting classic farce is full of madcap setups, mistaken identities, room swaps, hilarious misunderstandings, bawdy overtones and quirky characters that make this gloriously fun.

“Lend Me A Tenor, written by Ken Ludwig, is a finely-crafted romp in the classic style of the 1930s comedies. A crisp, fast-moving, quirky laugh fest is the perfect late summer entertainment. With a talented cast and crew this production is sure to be a hit,” said director John Propster.

The NAU Review — he problem with invasive species, getting to know our PBC librarian and a gathering of world-renowned astronomers

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2023 • Comments Off

NAU has been awarded a grant by the Department of Defense to conduct a five-year research project on the impact of invasive species on threatened and endangered plants. Principal investigator Clare Aslan and her team aim to understand the effects of invasive species on ecosystem structure and function, focusing on the Pöhakuloa Training Area in Hawaii. By identifying critical factors and developing control measures that will help resource managers in their conservation efforts, the project seeks to support the conservation efforts of endangered species and enhance our understanding of species persistence in threatened environments.

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

by Community Contributor • June 28, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — 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.

City of Flagstaff announces Fourth of July closure

by Community Contributor • June 28, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 in honor of the Fourth of July holiday. City Hall offices will reopen Wednesday, July 5 from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on the Fourth of July include:

East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N. Izabel St.)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)

CCC’s Comet Promise helps students Start Small and Go Big

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The scenario is all too common: Some students struggling to make ends meet and who qualify for federal financial aid still don’t quite have the funds to completely cover the cost of their tuition. To those students, such a barrier is hard, if not impossible, to overcome.

Coconino Community College makes those students a promise: The college will cover the difference.

The Comet Promise program helps eligible students pay for their education by covering the cost of tuition when federal grants fall short. The program aims at helping remove economic barriers to offer a pathway for CCC students to complete their certificate or degree.

Bilingual report — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions to Begin Thursday in Coconino County

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions will begin Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. in all unincorporated areas of Coconino County.

With the potential for continued warm, dry, and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona in the coming days, both the Coconino National Forest and the Kaibab National Forest – Williams Ranger District will begin Stage 1 Fire Restrictions this Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) and County Manager’s Office have directed Emergency Management (CCEM) to do likewise in all unincorporated areas of the County.

City of Flagstaff announces Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 29

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2023 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Thursday, June 29, 2023.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

Permits for open burning within the City will not be issued.
The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.

Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library 6/26/23

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Connect with your community

National Park Service selects North Rim Hospitality, LLC for primary concession contract

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2023 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz.— The National Park Service announces the selection of North Rim Hospitality, LLC, to provide lodging, food and beverage, retail, and other services at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park under a concession contract that will be effective for 15 years from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2038.

North Rim Hospitality, LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark, is currently serving as the concessioner at the North Rim. In addition to the North Rim, they operate many other visitor services concession contracts throughout the National Park Service and this new contract will ensure continuity of services.

Diversity Councils take part in Coconino County 2023 Diversity Day celebration

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Members of Coconino County’s Diversity Councils took part in annual Coconino County Diversity Day celebration held Wednesday, June 21, 2023 at the Coconino County Courthouse Lawn, Flagstaff.

The event included information booths presented by a variety of groups including various Coconino County departments including Parks and Recreation, the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC), the Intertribal Advisory Council, the Peace Corps, Northern Arizona University’s Office of Inclusion and other organizations.

Recycling Update – Flagstaff City Council approves contract with Friedman Recycling

by Community Contributor • June 23, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — During the June 20 Council meeting, the Flagstaff City Council approved an agreement with Friedman Recycling Company for the equipment, transportation, processing, and recovery of recyclable materials. This Agreement supports new and enhanced operational and financial efficiencies in the hauling, processing, and recovery of the City’s recyclables and ensures that materials are recycled to their fullest extent possible.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Stepping Up with the Summit Society

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2023 • Comments Off

The job of United Way of Northern Arizona is to bring together our community resources so we can do big and bold things that move the needle and improve life for our friends and neighbors in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.

It takes the support of a whole community to make it happen. Every donation, every volunteer hour, and every bit of advocacy is important.

Our Summit Society members have an outsized impact, however, because of their unique generosity with annual gifts of $500 or more to UWNA.

Here are some of the ways that the Summit Society contributions are making a difference:

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 19-23, 2023

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2023 • Comments Off

Hull Fire grows to 1,102 acres between Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon

Crews continue to work on the lightning-caused Hull Fire on the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest as well as within Grand Canyon.

The Hull Fire, located near Lower Hull Tank along the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park boundary just northeast of the Grand View Lookout and east of Grandview Point, is currently at 1,102 acres burning in ponderosa pine forest, it is spreading north, and is being co-managed with Grand Canyon National Park (approximately 300 acres are burning within the park).

Discover Flagstaff — Heritage Festival of Arts and Culture, The Museum of Northern Arizona June 24-25

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2023 • Comments Off

More than a market, the Heritage Festival is an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse Indigenous cultures of the Colorado Plateau region. 10 a.m.

Grand Canyon National Park seeks public comments on North Rim water system

by Community Contributor • June 22, 2023 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz.— The National Park Service (NPS) is beginning civic engagement to seek public input on proposed improvements to the water system at the North Rim and inner canyon in Grand Canyon National Park. Public comments will be accepted from June 22 until midnight, July 5, 2023, and used to refine the project proposal.

The water system improvements are part of a proposed Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund project called Rehabilitate the North Rim and Roaring Springs Utility Systems.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y joins other community groups, organizations for return of Tuba City’s Family Fun Day

by Community Contributor • June 21, 2023 • Comments Off

TUBA CITY — Nearly 200 family members and individuals representing a number of community non-profit organizations took part in the return of the AZ Health Zone’s Family Fun Day held Thursday, June 15 at Louise Yellowman County Park, Tuba City.

The program, which was last held in 2019 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, included food demonstrations, a variety off interactive education booths, games, a bouncy house and free summer lunches for children.

Some of the groups providing information at the event included Coconino County Health & Human Services’ AZ Health Zone, the Navajo Nation Indian Community Health Representative, various representatives from the Tuba City Regional Health Care Corp. and Coconino County’s Rec on Wheels program.

Check out the Galleries at Sedona Arts Center!

by Community Contributor • June 20, 2023 • Comments Off

NOW FEATURING:
Nancy Bihler, Patricia Bohannon, Khrystyna Kozyuk, & Susan Moody

Our Gallery showcases the largest selection in Sedona of artwork by local artists. If you are seeking a rare piece of fine art, a gift of exquisite jewelry, appreciate stunning photography, or looking for a lovely keepsake from your visit to Sedona, the Arts Center has it all and more. The Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax – almost a 10% savings.

Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library 6/19/23

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2023 • Comments Off

Connect with your community

Summer is a fun time to take art classes!

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2023 • Comments Off

UPCOMING CLASSES & WORKSHOPS
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. Ongoing Class instruction is available and donors at the $60 Friend level and above receive a 10% discount on Classes (does not apply to Workshops.) Click here to see all of our classes and workshops

Come Celebrate Juneteenth in Flagstaff June 16-18

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Come celebrate Juneteenth with a variety of events in Flagstaff.

The Juneteenth celebration commemorates the day Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, granting them freedom. Juneteenth today, celebrates African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures.

Events begin with the 2nd Annual Southside Community Association’s “Lived Black Experience Project” Juneteenth Community Awards at 5 p.m. Friday, June 16, 2023 at the Doubletree by Hilton, 1175 W. Route 66, Flagstaff. Ticket sales have ended.

The annual Celebrate Juneteenth event with music performances, food, games and vendors will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 17 at the Flagstaff Murdoch Center, 203 E. Brannen Ave., Flagstaff.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Your 2023 Volunteer Opportunity Guide

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2023 • Comments Off

Summer’s here and it’s the perfect time to make a difference in the lives of your friends and neighbors by becoming a volunteer.

Donating your time and work to our local nonprofits helps these organizations fulfill their shared mission of improving our communities.

If you’d like to volunteer but don’t know where to start, we have something that might help. It’s a 2023 Guide to Volunteering in Northern Arizona, featuring dozens of opportunities currently available with our nonprofit partners in Coconino, Yavapai and Apache counties.

Board of Supervisors Officially Recognizes Juneteenth, Promotes Events in Coconino County

by Community Contributor • June 16, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — At their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 13, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) voted unanimously to officially recognize and celebrate Juneteenth in Coconino County.

Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery. On this date in 1865, Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the upwards of 250,000 Black Americans still enslaved in the state were free by executive decree. Since then, Juneteenth has marked the celebration of Black American freedom and the subsequent achievements within the culture while encouraging continuous opportunities and access to equitable advancement, education, and progress for all.

Discover Flagstaff — Pride in the Pines, Thorpe Park on June 17

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

Pride in the Pines, Thorpe Park

Family friendly Pride Festival of Flagstaff, honoring acceptance, diversity, community, and Fun. We will also have our 1st Annual Flagstaff Pride Parade! Parade, 9 a.m., Pride, 11 a.m.

Coconino County Jury Commissioner Warns Residents of New Jury Scam

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Clerk of the Superior Court and Jury Commissioner Valerie Wyant has recently received reports from concerned residents regarding phone scams where they were contacted by an individual impersonating the Jury Commissioner and asking for personal information in an aggressive manner.

This person has been reported as using aggressive and threatening language, attempting to confirm personal information (addresses, phone numbers, date of birth, and email addresses), and informing citizens a warrant has been issued for their arrest.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — APS Business Tools to Lower Energy Costs

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

As temperatures heat up, it’s important for businesses to explore ways to save on their energy bills. Fortunately, APS offers a whole suite of services and programs to help businesses manage energy usage.

“Small business owners are still trying to catch up from the pandemic and now they’re dealing with inflation,” said Trevor Swanson, Energy Innovation Advisor for APS. “Whether it’s an energy assessment, rebate or special program, there are countless ways for small businesses to save on their monthly energy bills.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 12-16, 2023

by Community Contributor • June 15, 2023 • Comments Off

2023 Star Party

The annual Grand Canyon Star Party will conclude this Saturday, June 17. On the South Rim, events include a nightly presentation from a special guest speaker at 8 p.m. in the plaza of the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, followed by telescope viewing behind the building. Green-laser constellation tours will be offered nightly at 9, 9:30 and 10 p.m..

The list of speakers can be found on our Grand Canyon Star Party webpage, in the attached flyer, and also in the NPS Mobile App.

During Star Party week, the Education Staff is conducting family hikes during twilight (Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, June 14 through 16) to celebrate Grand Canyon’s dark skies!

Kids of all ages and their families are invited to join a ranger to experience and explore nightfall during a 45-minute walk. Meet outside Shrine of the Ages Auditorium (Parking Lot A) a 7:30 p.m. More information, including a flyer can be found here.