Category: News

Continued Mitigation Efforts Needed to Combat COVID-19

by Community Contributor • March 30, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County moved from a substantial to a moderate level of COVID-19 transmission this past week. Although the current trend is a positive sign, Coconino County health officials remind residents and tourists that continued mitigation efforts are needed to slow and mitigate the spread of the virus.

The County continues to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) guidance on mitigation efforts for the COVID-19 pandemic. This guidance includes the strong recommendation and encouragement for all persons to continue wearing face coverings, maintaining physical distance, avoiding large gatherings, thorough washing of hands, and seeking a vaccine appointment to slow the spread of the virus.

City of Flagstaff seeks input on draft Carbon Neutrality Plan

by Community Contributor • March 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The city of Flagstaff is striving for community-wide carbon neutrality by 2030, to respond to the climate emergency and improve quality of life for all residents. With input from the Flagstaff community and technical experts, the city of Flagstaff Sustainability Program developed a draft Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan to outline a framework for action over the next nine years. This plan details seven target areas of action that the city will take to reach carbon neutrality:

Online and In-Person Learning at Sedona Arts Center

by Community Contributor • March 30, 2021 • Comments Off

Online learning opportunities are perfect for students who are interested in taking one of our educational opportunities, but prefer to work at home. These learning opportunities provide a well-rounded experience in various visual art mediums.

Our workshops are live online learning experiences with one-on-one interaction between student and instructor. Click here to see all our online learning opportunities

Applicants sought for the Grand Canyon Unified School District #4 for Governing Board Seat

by Community Contributor • March 29, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Mango-Paget is seeking applicants for appointment for Grand Canyon Unified School District #4.

Applicants must be Arizona registered voters and residents of the school district for at least one year prior to the date of appointment. Applicants or their spouses cannot be an employee of the district.

March 31 — NAU’s virtual presentation ‘Honoring the Legacy of Cesar Chavez’ with guest speaker Andres P. Chavez

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2021 • Comments Off

Northern Arizona University Office of Inclusion: Multicultural and LGBTQIA Student Services to hold virtual presentation ‘Honoring the Legacy of Cesar Chavez’ with guest speaker Andres P. Chavez from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 31.

Andres will discuss his role in the Chavez Foundation and legacy of his grandfather.

Coconino Community College’s Stellar Newsletter — The Comet — A quick word from the President and more news

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2021 • Comments Off

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit families hard—emotionally and economically—locally and beyond.

Many hard-working people in Coconino County and across the nation are scraping by, sometimes with more than one job. Many others are out of work or working in jobs that aren’t making ends meet.

I am here to remind everyone we have a local resource that is ready to help—Coconino Community College. Community colleges are needed now more than ever, and we are here, proud to serve as your community college throughout Coconino County.

Statewide, your community colleges, including CCC, have been working tirelessly to gear up for providing fast, job-focused training for unemployed and underemployed residents of our wonderful state. In order for our residents to reskill and recover from the economic impact of the pandemic, CCC is responding quickly to new job trends that will help put people to work.

NAU News — No tuition increases for NAU undergraduates for second year in a row and more news

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2021 • Comments Off

In addition to retaining the four-year Pledge tuition guarantee, NAU is not proposing any new mandatory fee increases for the 2021-2022 academic year and will continue to focus on eliminating class fees.

March Updates from the Flagstaff Arts Council — Art & Science Grant Opportunity and more news

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2021 • Comments Off

The deadline for one of our Art & Science Grant programs, funded by the City of Flagstaff’s Bed Board and Beverage Tax, is approaching fast!

Just a friendly reminder, Flagstaff Arts Council’s non-profit grant opportunity for General Operating Support closes Wednesday 31, 2021 at 11 pm. For more information please download the grant guidelines here.

Our Project Grant opportunity has changed dates. The Innovation & Capacity Project Grant opportunity for the funding period beginning January 1, 2022, and ending December 31, 2022 will be open for applications no later than August 2, 2021. The deadline for this grant application is August 31, 2021 at 11:30 pm. There will be a mandatory virtual workshop August 2, 2021 at 5:30 pm.

Sedona Arts Center — COVID Impact Survey for Artists & Creative Workers

by Community Contributor • March 26, 2021 • Comments Off

Americans for the Arts has been tracking the human and financial impacts of COVID-19 since March 2020. As the pandemic continues, so does its devastation of the nation’s arts sector. This report presents the live and ongoing (“real-time”) findings of Americans for the Arts’ COVID Impact Survey for Artists and Creative Workers collected from December 2020 onwards.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — March 22-26, 2021 — Governor Doug Ducey Issues Executive Order Easing Some COVID-19 Restrictions

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2021 • Comments Off

On Thursday, March 25, Governor Doug Ducey issued an executive order easing some COVID restrictions across the state.
However, the order continues to encourage following CDC and Department of Labor Guidelines for masking, physical distancing, and hand washing. It also allows businesses and organizations that serve the public to mandate COVID mitigation measures.
Federal mask requirements are still in place in federal facilities and on public lands. Please visit the Grand Canyon Superintendent’s Compendium Summary for a list of locations where masking is required.
We will have more information about the order in next week’s edition of the wrap-up.

Gov. Ducey Removes Public Health Mandates on COVID

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2021 • Comments Off

Governor has removed all mandatory mask requirements, capacity restrictions, and other mitigation efforts. Coconino County still requires these measures on County property and encourages their continued use everywhere.

Governor Doug Ducey (on March 25) announced several updates to the state’s COVID-19 measures, including events, businesses, and local ordinances.

United Way of Northern Arizona — 4-H Blacksmith Program Forging Leaders

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2021 • Comments Off

If we were to say “4-H” to you, you’d immediately think pigs and goats on display at the County Fair, right? Animal husbandry has always been a core part of the 4-H experience.

In recent years, however, the Coconino County Cooperative Extension, which runs our local 4-H clubs, has expanded their youth education programs to include robotics, cake decorating and, now, blacksmithing.

In spite of the closures brought by Covid-19, interest in the practical metallurgy class being offered by the group, called “Evolution of the Tool,” has exceeded all expectation.

Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council to Hold Community Food Drive

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2021 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) will conduct a drop-off Community Food Drive at a socially distanced alternative to its annual César E. Chávez celebration from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 27 at the Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños, 2532 E. 7th Ave., at the corner of 4th and 7th streets, Flagstaff.

Community members are invited drop off donations as: peanut butter, canned vegetables, tuna, and other canned protein, pasta, cereal, and canned fruit. All donations go to the Flagstaff Family Food Center for distribution to the community.

Supporting partners of the Community Food Drive include The Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños, and Radio Sunnyside, KSZN-LP 101.5 FM

Willard Springs Transfer Station reopens Friday, April 2 for free green waste-only disposal

by Community Contributor • March 25, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County will reopen the Willard Springs Transfer Station for the new season on Friday, April 2, for free green waste-only disposal to support residents’ efforts to clean up their properties before wildfire season.

As with last year, the station will not be accepting bulk waste due to COVID-19 cash handling and the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and local health authorities’ social distancing protocols.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Disinvestments in early education are hurting children and families

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

By AzECA, Arizona Early Childhood Funders Collaborative, Expect More Arizona

Now a full year into the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, education at all levels has been impacted; in some ways, it’s forever changed. And the students who are most likely to face the longest-term effects are also the youngest.

In recently updated data, the Arizona Education Progress Meter showed a decline of 3% in Quality Early Learning over the past two years. Enrollment in quality early learning among Arizona 3- and 4-year-olds now stands at 19%, down from 22% two years ago. Arizona must take quick action to reverse this decrease and ensure all children have a strong start to their education, which is foundational to their future success and Arizona’s ability to meet the goals in the Education Progress Meter.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler — Yá’át’ééh! Coconino County Residents

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Thank you for taking the time to scroll through another edition of our newsletter. Although many county offices are closed to the public, we are still working for you. I am still working for you. I am excited to continue my work with, and for, the residents of Coconino County District 5.

I am please to share this weekly e-blast with you to provide you with a weekly update on my efforts, the latest COVID-19 information, and share resources from other community partners resources. We are in this together.

Sincerely,
Lena

9th Annual Teacher of the Year and the 4th Annual Rookie Teacher of the Year Nominations Open

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

After previously having cancelled, Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, Cheryl Mango-Paget, is pleased to announce the reinstatement of the 9th Annual Teacher of the Year and the 4th Annual Rookie Teacher of the Year Awards.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented multiple challenges for teachers and students over the last year. We have witnessed the strength and ingenuity of Coconino County teachers through these difficult times and would like to acknowledge those who have been exceptionally outstanding in developing inventive curriculum and strategies for supporting student learning during the 2020/2021 school year.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Save the Date for BioScience Roadmap Update

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

ECoNA will debut a video about our local bioscience sector at the annual Bioscience Roadmap hosted by the Flinn Foundation. This virtual meeting will be held from 12 to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 14. To register for this free event, please click here.

In addition to updates from around the state, the event will feature keynote remarks from Thomas Osha, the board chair of the Global Institute on Innovation Districts. Osha is a global authority on leveraging research and technology into economic development.

Discover Flagstaff — Serenade for Strings, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra and more events

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Thursday-Wednesday Mar. 25-31
Serenade for Strings, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Performance by the string section of Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Virtual event. 1 a.m.

The Literacy Center — Sunny Days on the Horizon…

by Community Contributor • March 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Happy Spring!! As the weather warms, vaccines become available, and schools reopen, we have so much exciting news to share with you all! Please read on for announcements regarding some staff changes, our reopening plan, and Arizona Gives Day.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Visit our New Website and Learn How We Make an Impact!

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2021 • Comments Off

Learn about Our Education Initiatives and Get Involved!

Through our educational intiatives, we have connected hundreds of youth with the joys of scientific discovery!

Sedona Arts Center — New Workshops Just Added

by Community Contributor • March 23, 2021 • Comments Off

Our workshops are live online learning experiences with one-on-one interaction between student and instructor. Click here to see all our online learning opportunities

CHAC presenting Community Food Drive at Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2021 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) will present a drop-off Community Food Drive as a socially distant alternative to its annual César E. Chávez celebration from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 27 at the Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños, 2532 E. 7th Ave., at the corner of 4th and 7th streets, Flagstaff.

All donations go to the Flagstaff Family Food Center for distribution to the community.

Supporting partners include:

The Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños
Radio Sunnyside KSZN-LP 101.5 FM

NAU News — Take a look inside NAU’s mitigation testing site and the people who keep it running day to day and more news

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Employees and nursing students staff the testing site at the Fieldhouse, answering questions, keeping the lines moving, ensuring public health rules are followed and offering a friendly face in NAU’s efforts to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

John Romero appointed to the Williams USD #2 Governing School Board

by Community Contributor • March 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, Cheryl Mango-Paget has announced the appointment of John Romero as a Governing Board Member for the Williams USD #2.

Romero was appointed March 17, 2021 and his term will end on Dec. 31, 2022.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: March 15-19, 2021

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park Key Messages – Week of March 15, 2021 COVID-19 Updates This week’s numbers at a glance: The average number of new cases per day in Arizona is 893, down from 1,345 on average per day last week.…

United Way of Northern Arizona — 24 Hours of Giving. A Lifetime of Impact

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2021 • Comments Off

What a difference a day makes.

For our state’s nonprofits, including United Way of Northern Arizona, 24 hours can have a huge impact on the programs we provide and the partners we support.

That’s why we are so proud to be participating in this year’s Arizona Gives Day on Tuesday, April 6. During the past nine years, this event has raised more than $23 million for Arizona nonprofits, including a record $6.1 million last year.

It’s a special day that unites supporters of big and small nonprofits to celebrate and increase philanthropy in Arizona through online giving.

You don’t have to wait until April 6 to participate, however.

Sedona Arts Center — Here’s what’s new in our Fine Art Gallery!

by Community Contributor • March 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Featuring: Bill Cramer, Cliff Finity,
Byron McKeown, Deanne McKeown,
and Lesley Aine McKeown

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler — COVID-19 Information Line (928) 679-7300

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Our Tuba City office is physically closed to the public, but we are still working for you.

Remote Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday | 10 am to 4 pm
Closed Fridays

If you need assistance, please call: 928-283-4518 or email Miranda at mmorales@coconino.az.gov

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Bilingual report — Attention Parents! We are looking for volunteers for virtual conversation on March 23

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

We are looking for volunteers for a virtual conversation.

WHO: Parents of school-age children

WHAT: A small group conversation about opportunities and challenges in education

WHEN: Tuesday, March 23 6 to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: This will be a virtual conversation. participation will require access to wi-fi and a device that can connect to ZOOM.

Discover Flagstaff — March 18-24 — Serenade for Strings, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra and more events

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Serenade for Strings, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra.Performance by the string section of Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Virtual event. 1 a.m.

Coconino County Superior Court Congratulates Bryon Matsuda on Retirement

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County Superior Court, through Presiding Juvenile Court Judge Ted Reed, announced the retirement of long-time Director of Juvenile Court Services, Bryon Matsuda, on April 30, 2021. Matsuda served a dedicated career over 47 years to improve the lives of youth and families involved in the juvenile justice system.

“Our County is better today because of the legacy that Bryon Matsuda leaves us. He brought a visionary approach to juvenile justice. His moral compass has always pressed him—and therefore the department—to do better and be better for the youth and families we serve. His leadership will be missed, but it will never be forgotten in Coconino County,” commented Judge Ted Reed.

Sedona Arts Center — Updated dates for online learning

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Our workshops are live online learning experiences with one-on-one interaction between student and instructor. Click here to see all our online learning opportunities

Bilingual report — Coconino County Moves to Phase 1c; Includes 35 and Older in Vaccine Eligibility

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County, is expanding vaccinations to include Phase 1c individuals and those aged 35 and older effective immediately. There are vaccine appointments available immediately.

“Coconino County is pleased with the positive demand for vaccines from our community. We encourage all persons eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Please help us battle the pandemic by encouraging your family and friends to schedule their vaccine appointment.” said Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Director Kim Musselman.

Coconino County Applauds the Confirmation of Interior Secretary Deb Haaland

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County applauded the Senate’s action to confirm Rep. Deb Haaland as the first Native American to serve as the Secretary of the Interior. Coconino County has significant interaction with the Interior Department in all corners of the County including the National Park Service, the Bureaus of Land Management, Reclamation, Indian Affairs, and Education and the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

“We are overjoyed to have a Native American at the helm of the Interior Department, especially with Coconino County’s diverse population and landscape. The Interior Department has a significant footprint here in our County and every decision they make – from the WAVE on the Utah border to the Grand Canyon – impacts us all. We look forward to working with Secretary Haaland to move forward for greater funding and protection of our public lands and assets,” commented Vice-Chair Lena Fowler.

Coconino County Relocates Human Resources Offices as part of Facility Consolidation Plan

by Community Contributor • March 16, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County has completed the move of its Human Resources Department to the County Administration Building as part of a multi-layered series of facility consolidation efforts to save the County on leased space costs. The Human Resources Department is now located on the 3rd floor of the County Administration Building at 219 E Cherry Ave in Flagstaff.

“COVID-19 has demonstrated the ability for the County to reimagine how we use space, what part of our workforce needs to be in the office and explore hybrid work options that save taxpayers lease costs while promoting productivity in our dedicated team. The series of facility changes that we are engaged in will optimize County-owned space and eliminate much of our leased space,” said County Manager James Jayne.

City of Flagstaff announces Soliere Avenue closure

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

As part of the ongoing Fourth Street reconstruction project, Soliere Avenue will be closed at the Fourth Street intersection starting March 19, 2021. Fourth Street will remain open and a Soliere Avenue detour will be posted.

City of Flagstaff Seeking Deputy Library Director

by Community Contributor • March 15, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff is seeking a Deputy Library Director.

The position actively supports and upholds the City’s stated mission and values. Under direct supervision of the Library Director, employees of this classification are independently responsible for overseeing departments of the Library, including responsible administrative, professional, managerial and supervisory work. This position assists in directing the activities of the entire library section and serves in the absence of the Director.

NAU News — Learn more about the presidential transition with a message from Dr. Cruz and more news

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

On Wednesday, ABOR approved Dr. Cruz’s contract to be the 17th president of Northern Arizona University, effective June 14. He is planning a robust transition period with several visits to campus.

Arizona Board of Regents approves appointment of Dr. José Luis Cruz as president of Northern Arizona University

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

The Arizona Board of Regents (on March 10) voted to approve the appointment of Dr. José Luis Cruz as the 17th president of Northern Arizona University. With its vote, ABOR has authorized the board chair to execute a multiple-year contract with Dr. Cruz.

The move follows an extensive national search and the recent announcement of Dr. Cruz’s selection as finalist for the position. Dr. Cruz will begin his term on June 14, 2021.

“On behalf of the board, I am pleased to officially welcome and congratulate Northern Arizona University’s 17th President – Dr. José Luis Cruz,” said ABOR Chair Larry E. Penley. “Dr. Cruz has an outstanding record as a proven academic leader and innovator. His understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing higher education – coupled with an unmatched commitment to improving educational outcomes for all students – will be invaluable assets to NAU and the state. We are grateful to have Dr. Cruz’s leadership and vision at the helm of NAU, and look forward to working with him as he works to help write the next chapter of this great university.”

Register Today for the Summer Semester at Coconino Community College

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Registration is now open for the summer semester at CCC.
In-person summer classes have returned, along with regular online and Zoom instruction.

Social-distancing, face-covering and sanitizing measures will still be in effect for the health and safety of students, faculty and staff.

Monday, June 7, 2021
Summer instruction begins at CCC.

Student/workforce housing at CCC in Page taking shape

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino Community College alum Jessica Dodson was the first generation in her family to attend college.

Living on the Navajo Nation, with no electricity or running water, she had to be creative in doing her homework, and the drive to the college in Page was long.

“It was difficult,” Dodson said. “But I focused on, ‘I’m doing it for myself.’”

If there had been student housing at CCC in Page when she was a student, her journey might have been easier. She’s certain it would help the educational journeys of students with experiences similar to hers.

Applicants sought from Coconino County for multiple Governing Board Seats for Appointment

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget is seeking applicants for appointment to three school districts which include:

Coconino Association for Vocations, Industry, and Technology (CAVIAT) Fredonia (1 seat),
Fredonia-Moccasin USD #6 (1 seat),
Maine Consolidated USD #10 (2 seats)
Applicants must be Arizona registered voters and residents of the school district for at least one year prior to the date of appointment. Applicants or their spouses cannot be an employee of the district.

CCC healthcare programs in Page get boost from SRP

by Community Contributor • March 12, 2021 • Comments Off

A Certified Nursing Assistant student needs important books and tools like a stethoscope and a blood-pressure kit.

An Emergency Medical Technician student needs vital CPR training as well as books and tools.

Thanks to a generous grant from SRP, Coconino Community College CNA and EMT students in Page will get that needed help. SRP awarded CCC $16,000 to help the students purchase books, training, tools, immunizations and more.