Elf The Musical is the hilarious and heartwarming tale of Buddy, a young orphan whose life is changed forever when he mistakenly crawls into Santa’s sack of toys one Christmas Eve.
Dear Museum Friends,
As we enter November, I’m filled with gratitude for our community – MNA members, donors, partners, volunteers, board members, and staff whose dedication and passion fuel our mission. Together, we’re able to shine a light on the remarkable treasures of the Colorado Plateau, ensuring they remain accessible to all.
FLAGSTAFF — With predicted moisture in the next couple of days, fire managers with the Coconino National Forest are planning on conducting pile burns 4 miles west of Flagstaff, south of Interstate 40 along Naval Observatory Road.
Smoke will be visible to those in Flagstaff and motorists along I-40 and may impact areas of Flagstaff Ranch.
The Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan is an important policy guide for the Flagstaff Region: this region includes the City of Flagstaff and nearby county communities including Kachina, Mountainaire, Doney Park, and Bellemont. The Draft Regional Plan envisions the year 2045 and outlines the community vision for growth, housing, transportation, the economy, climate action, natural resources, open space, parks, water management, energy, and infrastructure.
Happy Halloween from United Way of Northern Arizona!
Tonight will be an exciting time filled with costumes, candy, and spooky adventures. But it’s also important to prioritize safety while trick-or-treating.
As you know, one of our organization’s main priorities is stepping up for youth and that includes making sure they are safe.
Whether you’re planning to walk the neighborhood or attend local festivities, these tips will help keep children safe and make Halloween a memorable experience for all the right reasons.
Before Heading Out: Plan for Safety
Make sure costumes are short enough to avoid tripping hazards and that your child can see through any mask. Attaching reflective tape to costumes or treat bags or carrying glow sticks or flashlights will improve visibility.
Have a plan for your route and stick to familiar, well-lit areas. Ensure that younger children are supervised by an adult and set up a curfew for older kids going out alone.
IN THIS ISSUE
Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Community Meetings on Post Wildfire Flood Risks and Upper Rio Forest Restoration
Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Homer Wilkes Returns to Discuss Forest Restoration and Celebrate RFOR’s Sawmill
Governor and Attorney General Join the County in Calling For Review of EIS For Pinyon Plain Mine
Capitol Hill Hears From Coconino County
NRCS Chief and Senior Advisor Tom O’Halleran Tour Flood Mitigation Projects Funded by NRCS
Happy First Anniversary to Baaj Nwaavjo I’Tah Kukveni Ancestral Footprints of The Grand Canyon National Monument
Honoring Former Supervisor Ryan with Matt Ryan County Natural Area
Wildland Fire Leadership Council Meet in Flagstaff
Babbitt Ranch Energy Center Ribbon Cutting Celebration
Mike Scott Retires and Flagstaff Family Food Center Acquires Grand Canyon Food Pantry
Supervisor Horstman Sworn In at the Governor’s Office for the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority Board
Regent Liz Archuleta Honored
Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition Star Party Delivers!
Camp Colton Breaks Ground on New Lodge
In Remembrance of Dr. Miguel Vasquez
Fall Events
Community Resources
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health has noted an increase in unlicensed food vendors throughout the County. These vendors pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness due to unsanitary conditions and should be avoided.
Voting on November 5th
The 2024 Arizona elections will take place on Tuesday, November 5, coinciding with the nationwide general election. As we’ve seen in previous elections, every vote matters, and we strongly encourage all employees and community members to exercise their right to vote.
For those working in the park, you can cast your ballot at the Shrine of the Ages, precinct #59, on Election Day. Voters registered in Coconino County have the option to vote at their designated precinct polling place or at any Vote Center available on Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and if you are in line at 7 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote.
For up-to-date information on polling locations and additional details, please visit the Coconino County Elections website at www.coconino.az.gov/elections or call 928-679-7860.
FLAGSTAFF — Per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) requirements, the City has been conducting an inventory of the location and material type of all city water service lines. City customers with service lines of unknown material will receive a notice from the City of Flagstaff in early November 2024. There is a possibility that water service lines of unknown material could be made of lead or galvanized pipe that was previously connected to lead.
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Recorder’s Office reminds early voters that their voted ballots must be received no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day, November 5. The recommended deadline to mail your voted early ballot has passed. Instead, early voters should drop their ballots off in person.
As of Monday, October 28, half the early ballots issued for the General Election have not been received by the Recorder’s Office. There is still time to get turn in your early ballot.
COCONINO COUNTY — With more than 200 virtual attendees, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth celebrated its inaugural “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation on Oct. 22 and 23.
“This type of work overwhelmingly moves people to action. It inspires them toward love and care of others as we pause to view differing perspectives and to understand issues in multi-dimensional ways,” said Virginia Watahomigie, executive director of CCC&Y.
CCC&Y curated an array of speakers and topics to help our community understand what system change is, why we need it and some tools and support to improve how things are done. See information on speakers below.
“It has been such a joy to see the positive interaction with the speakers and the material. Occasionally, it can kick up some feelings that express themselves in a wide variety of ways and some push back can be seen,” Watahomigie said. “We are committed to continuing this work and moving these initiatives forward. At the risk of sounding like a soundbite, and paraphrasing, I remember that Maya Angelou encouraged us to do better when we know better. The trick can sometimes be the willingness to know better.”
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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been awarded a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration for $4,989,600 for the Amtrak Station Accessibility Project. The project includes reconstruction of the existing north platform and the addition of a new south platform, which will improve passenger accessibility, rail efficiency, and safety. Matching funds in the amount of $1.2M will be provided through a partnership between the City and BNSF Railway. This project will be integrated into City’s Downtown Mile Safety and Connectivity suite of projects to provide a wholistic approach to improvements along the rail corridor.
Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!
PRESCOTT — On October 18, 2024, the Prescott National Forest Supervisor, Sarah Clawson, signed the Decision Notice authorizing the equal value exchange of lands currently owned by the Yavapai Apache Nation for parcels on National Forest lands.
In celebration of this historic occasion, the Yavapai-Apache Nation will host a signing ceremony on November 4 beginning at 10:00 am at the Nation’s Tunlii Community Center, located at 1520 E. Cherry Creek Rd., Camp Verde, Arizona.
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month
A commitment to Indigenous Peoples is an important part of NAU—a priority enshrined in the university’s strategic plan. For the second consecutive year, NAU has another record-breaking attendance of Native American and Indigenous students, who represent more than 110 Native American Tribes/Nations, Alaska Native Villages and Native Hawaiian communities.
In November, NAU celebrates Native American Heritage Month, an annual event designated in 1990 as National American Indian Heritage Month. It is the time of year to come together to honor and celebrate Native American and Indigenous cultures, traditions, knowledges and protocols. NAU honors its commitment to Indigenous Peoples with a robust calendar of more than 20 events spread throughout the month, which all are welcome to attend.
I’ve recently learned of the efforts of the Democracy Defense Front (DDF) and am passing this information on to you in case you’re interesting in assisting the group. The DDF is looking for volunteers to ensure every eligible voter can exercise their rights peacefully and successfully on election day.
Training takes place in Flagstaff on Tuesday October 29, 1:00-4:00 pm at the NAU University Union, in Havasupai C. For more information, and to register (please do so prior to Tuesday), go to this location. Food will be provided during the training.
After training, you will be paid $25/hour to work a full-day shift on election day. I’ve been told that trained volunteers from the Flagstaff area will be placed at polling locations in or near Flagstaff.
Michele James
Executive Director
FLAGSTAFF — Fire managers with the Coconino National Forest are currently monitoring a lightning-caused wildfire that was reported the morning of October 25 approximately 11 miles south of Flagstaff on the west side of Interstate 17 near the Newman Park exit.
The Smith Fire is currently 55 acres within the burn scar of the Scott Fire of 2023 and moving at a low rate of spread with no structures threatened.
Fire managers are considering this wildfire as a candidate to manage for forest health but waiting to see what the next couple of days brings in precipitation.
View this email in your browser October 28th, 2024 Connect with your community Adult & All-Ages Events Book Clubs Youth Events Friends of the Library Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, please call 928-213-2331…
FLAGSTAFF — The 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente (Celebrations of the People) takes place Oct. 26 and 27 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the community event honors a vibrant tradition with a weekend of remembrances, joy and cultural immersion.
In the spirit of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Celebraciones invites people to experience the magic of colorful ofrendas (altars), unique tributes to loved ones passed, in the museum’s Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard. As the sun sets on Saturday, the courtyard transforms into a candlelit scene for Courtyard After Dark. Visitors can take in glowing ofrendas under the night sky while enjoying Mexican sweets and hot chocolate.
Join us for a weekend filled with color, culture, and celebration. Presented in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, Celebraciones honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with heartfelt remembrances and joyful festivities. 10 a.m.
Learn More
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County invite the community to participate in the 60-day public review of the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 by reading the draft, submitting comments, and attending events from now until Thursday, Dec. 19. Visit www.flagstaff.az.gov/regionalplan2045 to read the draft, as well as information about the Plan and upcoming events.
Co-coordinators Robin Ayers, HR Manager, and Michelle Brown, Senior HR Coordinator, led Nestle Purina’s campaign this year with a mission of engaging employees and inspiring community support.
“When we can step up and make a difference, it is recognizable to others, which can encourage other agencies and individuals to do the same,” said Michelle. “We’re proud of our employees who are involved in community outreach.”
Nestle Purina introduced their workplace campaign during quarterly business meetings, combining informational presentations on the work of UWNA with opportunities to donate. Raffles were held for anyone completing a pledge form with additional prize opportunities for staff members who met specified donation goals.
Honoring Heritage: Reflections on the Healing Power of Land and Community at Indigenous Peoples’ Day
“Remember these places that we are enjoying; now that they are more than just tourist destinations, more than recreational playgrounds, more than places where mining companies or helicopter companies are out there to make a buck. When you’re out on that trail and maybe take a moment think about this place as medicine and how it’s probably providing you some healing. When you look at that breathtaking view that is medicine right there…the reason why that the land can do that for us, is because that power is real, and that is all what a scared place is, recognizing that the land has power.” -David Martínez
Help us give our international students, workers, and residents an authentic American Halloween experience! We’ll have pumpkin carving, candy for trick-or-treaters, and costumes to dress up!
Free to participate! Join us from 4pm to 7pm at The Ice House
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — This is the last chance to register for the Coconino Coalition of Children & Youth’s “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23.
More than 125 individuals signed up for the Oct. 22 event.
The symposium provides details on What is System Change? Why Do We Need It? How Do We Make It Happen?
“The speakers today had very relevant information. I appreciated the focus on intergenerational trauma and how systemic systems contribute to people’s trauma – this feels so relevant to Northern Arizona living on and near tribal lands and being a border state where children have been separated from parents for an extended length of time,” said Dylan Wilder of TransIntimate Online Courses. “Learning more about Vitalyst Spark Grants and the different pillars of systemic change was a critical and helpful lens for me.”
The symposium also provides information on How do we come together for true change? How do we address root cause issues and create positive outcomes, health and thriving for all?
“…The Symposium provided information which was helpful – on a macro level to educate the audience about the broad concepts surrounding Systems Change as well as on a personal level as we learned more about how we as humans experience and react to the world around us affects the way we function,” said Sandra Diehl of the Coconino County Public Defender’s Office.
The event is hosted by CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie, who will speak about the Coalition’s Reimagine Community Project — A Trauma-Informed System Change program the Coalition is partnering with the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County. CCC&Y was one of four organizations in Arizona to be selected for the Vitalyst Health Foundation’s System Change Grant
The event is free for those who live or work in Coconino County, $20 full day for all others. Register HERE for the Oct. 23 event.
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FLAGSTAFF — Winter parking restrictions in the City of Flagstaff 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. This ordinance is enforced by the Flagstaff Police Department. Cars that are parked in violation of the ordinance when it is not snowing will receive a ticket and those parked in violation during inclement weather will receive a ticket and could be towed.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Winter Parking Ordinance Begins Friday Nov. 1. The ordinance, which will remain in effect through Tuesday, April 1, 2025, prohibits vehicles, trailers, and storage containers from being parked in County-maintained rights-of-way at all times during snow season.
Between Nov. 1 – April 1 of each year, vehicles, trailers, and storage containers must be kept clear of County-maintained rights-of-way both to facilitate safer snow removal operations and to help mitigate dangerous “snow play”-related traffic congestion and parking issues along County rights-of-way. Any vehicle parked in prohibited areas is subject to be cited and may be towed at the owner’s expense due to the possibility of threatening the health or welfare of County residents.
WILLIAMS — Fire Managers are preparing to wrap up the 2024 fall prescribed burning season on the south zone of the Kaibab National Forest this week beginning with the 3055 acre Pine Flat Prescribed Fire Project located approximately 15 miles south of Williams, followed by the 1467 acre Fireball Unit on the Three Sisters Prescribed Fire Project located 5 miles northwest of Williams on the south side of FR 124.
NAU is renaming the College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences the Steve Sanghi College of Engineering, thanks to a generous $10 million cash gift—the largest of its kind in university history—from Maria and Steve Sanghi. The gift comes at a pivotal time: Arizona has made a major commitment to growth in the semiconductor industry, and NAU is uniquely positioned to contribute, with more than 70% of grads staying in Arizona for work. Sanghi said the gift “will help ensure engineering students can participate in the workforce of the future and ultimately strengthen Arizona’s economy and communities.”
Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!
