Author: Community Contributor

April 21 — NAU to present Luis Alberto Urrea — “The Typewriter in My Kitchen: One Writer’s Fable

Luis Alberto Urrea, a Guggenheim Fellow and Pulitzer Prize finalist, is the author of 19 books including Devils Highway and House of Broken Angels. Join him for an evening in Cline Library Assembly Hall as he tells his story of growing up with the arts and humanities as a crucial lifeline to the world beyond his modest home.

April 23 — Flagstaff City Council meeting discussion to include potential relocation of concrete plant in Southside

The City of Flagstaff has been working to relocate Arizona Materials (the concrete plant at 633 E. Brannen Ave) to allow for the construction of the Lone Tree Overpass Project and the Rio de Flag Flood Control Project. Arizona Materials is seeking City support to move to 840 E Butler Ave across from Whole Foods Market, which is located in the “Live/Make Center” as designated in the Southside Community Specific Plan.

April 24 — Public Input Sought for Proposed Changes to County Zoning Ordinance

The Coconino County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding recommended Zoning Ordinance amendments at their April 24, 2024 regular meeting.

These amendments are intended to improve flexibility in the County’s Comprehensive Plan update process and overall flexibility and efficiency in serving the community.

April 27 — Properly dispose of batteries, lightbulbs, medications and more at Drop-off Day in Flagstaff

We are excited to partner with the Flagstaff Hazardous Products Center, Coconino County, Flagstaff Police Department, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), Ponderosa Medical Waste Services, Elevated Shredding, and Westech Recyclers to put your waste in the right place.

April 30 — Bilingual report — Attend the first Coconino County Comprehensive Plan Open House

FLAGSTAFF — Join the Comprehensive Plan Update Open House! Drop-in, Get Involved, Stay Informed from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 30 at the Thomas Auditorium, 2500 N. Fort Valley Road, Flagstaff.

Review what we’ve heard from county communities and the results of our community engagement efforts, provide feedback, enjoy refreshments, enter a raffle drawing!

May 4 — Flagstaff Festival of Science to present Scavenger Hunt

Taking place on May 4th, the Scavenger Hunt includes 20 participating destinations, an exclusive event tee-shirt, refreshments at the culminating event, volunteer support, a convenient bus pass for the day, and, an abundance of joy and inspiration! At the post-event celebration, everyone is a winner with prizes for top teams and attendee-voted superlatives, along with a slideshow of your terrific selfies, and snacks. Register today for an adventure-packed day with the Festival of Science!

May 4 — Cancer Support Community Northern Arizona Hosts Annual ‘PAWS-4-Hope’ Fundraiser

FLAGSTAFF — Cancer Support Community Northern Arizona will host a fun day of dog-centered events at its annual PAWS-4-HOPE fundraiser on Saturday, May 4, at Bushmaster Park in Flagstaff. Money raised by the event, which will include three dog walking…

May 18 — City of Flagstaff hosts drop-in event for residents to learn about upcoming changes to water bills

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is hosting a drop-in event for customers to learn about upcoming changes to City water bills. The event will be held at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth St) on Saturday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pizza will be provided, and all attendees will receive one free day pass to the Aquaplex facility. Adults and children are welcome.

May 18 — City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office hosts Fix-It Clinic

Fix-it clinics are community-driven events that pair community members with knowledgeable volunteers who can help fix small appliances, clothing, electronics, and more! Join volunteers for a day of hands-on sustainability and learn how simple repairs can make a big difference. Let’s work together towards a more sustainable Flagstaff. 

May 23 — Registration has begun for inaugural Northern Arizona Anti-Hunger Summit in Flagstaff

The Northern Arizona Anti-Hunger Summit (NAAHS) will explore human-food relationships and how northern Arizona’s systems impact this connection. The summit will explore the diversity in food system histories, challenges, diets, cultures, and food justice solutions.

June 7 — Local First Arizona presenting free ‘Rural Business Workshop — Marketing Plan’

Are you a rural-based business in Arizona looking to drive new customers and clients, grow your presence online, and maximize your time? Local First Arizona has crafted a network of the best rural-based marketing and business development companies to deliver education, trainings and exclusive services for you.

Businesses in Rural Arizona deserve resources and business opportunities that are built specifically for them. Join an upcoming free workshop to access the best advice in a variety of areas including:

Business Development Strategies

Telling Your Story and Why it Matters

Social Media Marketing

Getting Your Business Found Online

Through June 8 — Coconino Center for the Arts to present Chilean artist Francisco Gonzalez Castro’s exhibit ‘Bodies, Limits, and Transgressions’

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Center for the Arts will present Chilean artist Francisco Gonzalez Castro’s exhibition “Bodies, Limits, and Transgressions” through June. 8.

Through June 8 — Grand Canyon National Park hosts 34th annual Grand Canyon Star Party

GRAND CANYON — The 34th annual Grand Canyon Star Party will be held from through Saturday, June 8, 2024, on the South and North Rims of Grand Canyon National Park. National Parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States.

Dozens of telescopes will offer views of planets, double stars, star clusters, nebulae, and distant galaxies. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!

June 18 — Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045 meeting

The focus of the twelfth Regional Plan Committee meeting will be to resolve “parking lot” items for the Regional Plan 2045. Parking Lot items are unresolved topics from previous Regional Plan Committee meetings that required additional discussion or research to fully understand.

Through June 28 —¡Que Hermoso! – A Celebration of Latinx Artists exhibit at the Sedona Arts Center

¡Que Hermoso!
– A Celebration of Latinx Artists
June 5-28, 2024
Sedona Arts Center is delighted to announce the return of ¡Qué Hermoso! June 5-28, 2024, an exhibition that explores and celebrates Latinx cultural identity and traditions. The exhibition opens with an artists’ reception Wednesday, June 5, from 4-6 p.m., held in conjunction with Celebrate Sedona. The afternoon features artist demonstrations, food, wine, beer and music by the Andrés Martínez Trío. Both events are free and open to the public.

¡Qué Hermoso! showcases a variety of artistic mediums and styles and celebrates cultural identity and traditions by Arizona artists including Tato Caraveo, Emily Costello, Charissa Cota, Zarco Guerrero, Lucinda Hinojos, Annie Lopez and Gretchen Lopez. More than 35 artworks will highlight histories, familism, forgotten stories and rich personal and collective experiences.

Aug. 3 — City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office hosts Fix-It Clinic

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office is excited to announce an upcoming Fix-It Clinic on Saturday, Aug. 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Joe C. Montoya Community & Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)

Fix-It Clinics are community-driven events that pair community members with knowledgeable volunteers who can help fix small appliances, clothing, electronics, and more! Join volunteers for a day of hands-on sustainability and learn how simple repairs can make a big difference. Let’s work together towards a more sustainable Flagstaff.

Aug. 12 — City of Flagstaff hosts event celebrating Indigenous Code Talkers

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will celebrate Indigenous Code Talkers with an event on Monday, Aug. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Aquaplex Community Room (1702 N. Fourth St). Members of the public are welcome to attend.

The event will feature a posting of the colors, singing of the Marines Hymn, an official proclamation, and recognition of all Indigenous Code Talkers. A light lunch will be served to attendees.

This event is made possible through the collaboration of members of the Indigenous Commission, local nonprofit organizations, and other volunteers who have donated their time and efforts.

Aug. 14 — City of Flagstaff to host planting day at new Bushmaster Park Community Fruit Orchard

The Bushmaster Park Community Fruit Orchard will improve community food access, biodiversity and ecosystem resiliency and is a result of two City of Flagstaff grants awarded to local resident Alexi Kimiatek last fall—a $4,500 Beautification in Action grant from the Beautification & Public Art Commission and a $7,500 Neighborhood Sustainability grant from the Sustainability Commission. Grant funds enabled Kimiatek to purchase 30 fruit trees, tools and equipment, as well as hire skilled labor to complete site preparation including irrigation.

Aug. 23 — City of Flagstaff hosts community meeting for upcoming water rate changes

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is hosting a community meeting for upcoming water rate changes at the Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N Izabel Street) on Friday, Aug. 23 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Pizza will be provided, and adults and children are welcome.

In July, the City Council adopted a resolution and ordinance to increase potable water, sewer, and reclaimed water rates and fees. Rates will increase over a five-year period to adequately fund water infrastructure projects, operations, maintenance, and debt repayment contained in the five-year capital improvement program for Flagstaff Water Services.

Sept. 6 — Art Exhibition Fundraiser in Flagstaff — ‘Immigration Papers — Literary and Artistic Representations of the Immigrant Experience’

This is an art exhibition fundraiser that highlights the immigrant experience of our wonderful community. All proceeds go to support Northern Arizona Immigration Legal Services.

Sept. 18 — Northern Arizona Interfaith Council (NAIC) to present 2024 Candidate Accountability Session in Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — The Northern Arizona Interfaith Council (NAIC) will present the 2024 Candidate Accountability Session on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, 3600 N. Fourth St., Flagstaff.

Featuring Flagstaff City Council and School District Governing Board candidates, doors open at 5:10 p.m. 

Sept. 20 — Bilingual report — Culture Connection AZ, The Literacy Center, and NAU’s Center for International Education present the 3rd Annual Welcome To Flagstaff at The Historic Ice House

Culture Connection AZ’s Executive Director, Audra Travelbee, said “We are so excited to be partnering with NAU’s CIE and The Literacy Center to once again welcome international newcomers to Flagstaff. At last year’s event we welcomed over 150 international students, workers, and residents, and we expect to exceed that number this year. At a time when there is a lot of negative talk about immigrants, we believe it’s important to let them know that they are an extremely valuable part of what makes our community special, and we want them here.” 

Sept. 23 — Don’t Miss F3’s City Council Candidate Election Forum!

F3’s election-year in-person Candidate Forums play an important role in informing Flagstaff voters by providing an opportunity to directly ask questions of, and evaluate, the candidates.

On Monday, September 23, it’s your chance to get to know and ask questions directly to the six candidates for Flagstaff City Council whose names will appear on the November General Election ballot. There are three open seats to be filled on council this year. (Mayor Daggett is running unopposed in the mayoral race.)

Oct. 1 — NAU to present the ‘ABRAZOS TOUR — Borderlands / The Line Within’

FLAGSTAFF — NAU’s Latin American Studies and the Martin-Springer Institute will present the “ABRAZOS TOUR — Borderlands / The Line Within,” at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1 at NAU’s Liberal Arts Building, Room 136.

This free film screening is for a very powerful new film, with a Q&A at the end with the filmmakers!

From the website (link in comments)

The United States border is not just a geographic location. The border is everywhere. It lies within every undocumented immigrant family with the threat that at any moment they can be captured, incarcerated, deported; their lives destroyed. BORDERLAND | The Line Within not only exposes the profitable business of immigration and its human cost, but weaves together the stories of immigrant heroines and heroes resisting and showing a way forward, intent on building a movement in the shadow of the border industrial complex, recognizing the human rights of all.

Oct. 14 — Flagstaff hosts Indigenous Peoples Day celebration event

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will host an Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. The event, titled “Reflecting | Honoring | Resilience: Voices for Land and Community”, will take place from 9a.m. to 2p.m. and will feature presentations and cultural shares through songs and dances. Lunch will be served to attendees. The event will be held at the Elks Lodge (2101 N San Francisco St.) A schedule of the event will be posted on the City’s website.

Oct. 19 — Flagstaff Mall to hold Health and Wellness Fair

FLAGSTAFF — The Flagstaff Mall to hold its annual Health and Wellness Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 19.

The event includes:

Over 50 Community Partners!
FREE resources!
FREE information!
Prizes and giveaways!
In the Entertainment area by JCPenney

Through Oct. 25 — Online Auction of donated Native American art in support of Friends of Flagstaff’s Future

Many beautiful rugs, baskets, pottery, jewelry, and paintings donated to F3 by Martha Blue and Oliver (Ollie) W. Johnson will be included in the online auction held between October 15 and 25, 2024. The online auction can be accessed at this link https://onlinefundraiser.events/F3NativeAmericanArtAuction . Or use the QR code below.

Items may be viewed in person on Sunday, October 20, 3:00-5:00 pm at 222 E. Birch Ave., Suite 2, in Flagstaff.

10% of proceeds will be donated to the Buddy Whitethorne Foundation, a nonprofit created to assist young Native American artists in the development of their careers with scholarships, other financial support, and mentoring. In honor of Martha Blue, additional art pieces have been provided for this auction by the Buddy Whitethorne Foundation. 

Oct. 26, 27 — 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be held at the Museum of Northern Arizona

Now taking reservations for — Sugar Skull Decorating Workshop at the Celebraciones de la Gente Festival 

Experience the vibrant traditions of Mexican, Mexican American, and Latin X communities at the 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona! Join us for a weekend filled with color, culture, and celebration. Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raices, Celebraciones honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with heartfelt remembrances and joyful festivities.

Enjoy cultural dances and music as you explore the brightly adorned ofrendas in the Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard, each a stunning display of love and memory. Discover unique arts and crafts from local vendors, savor delicious traditional foods, and deepen your understanding through cultural presentations. Mariachi Rubor Femenil, Arizona’s renowned all-female mariachi group, and Ballet Folklorico de Colores of Flagstaff will bring distinctive sounds and movement to the celebration. Children will delight inthe creativity of sugar skull decorating and face painting.

Oct. 30 — NAU Ethnic Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies programs hosting Open House — The Day of the Dead Altars Showing

FLAGSTAFF — The NAU Ethnic Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies programs hosting Open House — The Day of the Dead Altars Showing from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30 at SBS West Suite 100.

Contact ethnicstudies@nau.edu for more information.

Nov. 6 — Coconino National Forest to host information session for Oak Creek Canyon subsurface withdrawal

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will host a virtual public meeting within the coming weeks to give residents and visitors the opportunity to learn more about the ongoing Oak Creek Canyon subsurface withdrawal.

As part of the public meeting, forest and BLM representatives will give updates on the withdrawal submission and the proposed 20-year extension of the withdrawal. Representatives will also share information regarding the planned Draft Environmental Assessment required under the National Environmental Policy Act.

Nov. 21 — Native American Heritage Month viewing of episode — ‘Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal, the Shape-Shifting Defense’ at the Flagstaff Aquaplex

FLAGSTAFF — In recognition of November as Native American Heritage Month, the City of Flagstaff and the the Office of Indigenous Initiatives will present a viewing of “Out There: Crimes of the Paranormal, the Shape-Shifting Defense,” at noon Thursday, Nov. 21 at the Flagstaff Aquaplex.

The episode features the murder of Sarah Saganitso, Navajo, in Flagstaff and reveals a continued fight for justice for Missing & Murdered Indigenous People.

We will have a family member of the late Ms. Saganitso and support relatives who will be available for Q & A.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Looking Back & Planning Ahead

This year has been one of change and progress for United Way of Northern Arizona.

Before we take a look at some of the biggest events that defined this year, I wanted to thank you not only for your support of UWNA, but also for the kindness you have shown me during my first year as the President & CEO of this superb nonprofit.

When I joined UWNA, I was thrilled to help lead a nonprofit known for its ability to address the big issues and be an agent for change. The Board of Directors and staff of UWNA are committed to amplifying UWNA’s role as a community convener in 2024 and beyond.

Thank you for your support of UWNA in the past year and for living United in Purpose.

Coconino County Board of Supervisors Approves Youth Behavioral Health Project

COCONIO COUNTY —The Coconino County Board of Supervisors approved the implementation phase of the Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Youth Behavioral Health Project (YBHP) at their December 12, 2023, regular meeting.

The YBHP, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), will offer preemptive behavioral healthcare for youth utilizing a hub and spoke youth-based and youth–led model. YBHP facilities and services will provide emotional, physical, and social support services for youth aged 12-18. 

As a result of the Board’s approval, CCHHS will move forward with the final planning and construction of an innovative, youth behavioral resource center facility in Flagstaff, and begin planning for services in outlying communities including Page, Williams, Tusayan, and Fredonia.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — 2023 Recap, Plus Remembering Amanda and Dennis

This year has been pivotal for the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona not only for what was accomplished, but also for the roadmap we are developing for the future.

Our top story for 2023 was the creation of our 5-year Strategic Plan (which you can download here) as we contemplated the most critical issues we must address to ensure continued economic vitality for our region.

One of the important aspects for our economic health is trade, and we were pleased to host the Consul General of Mexico, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council in Flagstaff. We opened up our Advisory Council meeting to the entire business community so everyone could benefit from the insights of these two representatives of Arizona’s largest two trading partners.

You can you still make a donation to Theatrikos

December is the time of year for charitable giving. And to become a member of Theatrikos. We hope you’ll become a member today so Theatrikos can keep bringing the best theatre to Northern Arizona.

We’ve only been able to reopen because pandemic relief grants and annual memberships have made it possible. But disaster relief is pretty much over. So annual memberships are all the more important. Your donation will make a difference.

Seasonal road closures beginning on Coconino National Forest

In an effort to protect forest roads from damage, the Coconino National Forest has started closing forest roads in the Flagstaff Ranger District (FRD) for the winter and will continue closing roads over the course of the coming weeks across the forest in higher elevations.

While the FRD has closed forest roads north of Interstate 40 along U.S. Highway 180 and U.S. Highway 89, many forest roads currently remain open due to low levels of snow and precipitation.

Seasonal road closures on each district of the Coconino NF occur at different times each year and depend on weather forecasts and road conditions.

Forest visitors are encouraged to check forest road statuses prior to any excursion by visiting the Coconino NF’s Forest Roads Status web page.

Recycle your Christmas tree this January through the City’s treecycling program

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is proud to provide a treecycling service during the month of January to assist with the proper recycling of Christmas trees. Collected trees will be mulched and used in City landscaping projects or as alternative daily cover at the Cinder Lake landfill. 

Curbside pick-up will be provided by the City’s Solid Waste Collections program to single-family households located within City limits that regularly receive bulky waste collection service from Jan. 2 through Jan. 12 (pending weather conditions). Trees must be placed on the curb by 6 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 2.

Flagstaff unsheltered community members give back: Community Assistance Teams’ People at Work initiative picks up over 3,500 cubic feet of litter

FLAGSTAFF — In four short months, the Community Assistance Teams’ (CATs) People at Work (P@W) initiative has removed over 3,500 cubic feet of litter from Flagstaff streets, employed dozens of unsheltered community members, and provided nearly 12,000 hours of community service. P@W is partially funded through the City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office’s Engage, Empower, Elevate (E3) grant program. E3 was developed in response to a two-fold challenge in Flagstaff; the record high number of persons that are unsheltered or at risk of being unsheltered and the ongoing challenge of keeping Flagstaff litter-free.

City of Flagstaff announces holiday closures

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff City Hall will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 and Monday, Jan. 1 for the Christmas and New Year holidays. Closures and reopening schedules for other City facilities and services are listed below.

Bilingual report — 2024 City of Flagstaff’s Minimum Wage

FLAGSTAFF — The Flagstaff minimum wage will increase to $17.40 per hour and $15.90 per hour for tipped workers beginning on January 1, 2024.

Per the provisions of the Minimum Wage Act – as passed as a citizen’s initiative in 2016 – the minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff shall increase proportional to the increase of the consumer price index as of August of the immediately preceding year over the level as of August of the previous year and shall be rounded to the nearest $0.05.

Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Classes and Workshops 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. 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.

City of Flagstaff seeking snow equipment operators

FLAGSTAFF — Interested in a part-time schedule and the exciting opportunity to take part in winter snow operations? Join our Public Works team as a temporary Snow Operations – Equipment Operator today!

To apply, visit http://www.governmentjobs.com/…/snow-operations-temp…

United Way of Northern Arizona — Northeast AZ Teen Concerns Highlighted in Youth-Driven Survey

A recent survey of students from Holbrook and Joseph City High Schools illustrates some of the mental health concerns of teens in Navajo County.

According to the survey, which was administered by two students at the high schools, a majority of the teens interviewed indicated they frequently feel anxious and under pressure in school and work.

About half felt they had someone to talk to about their concerns. Most relied on music, exercise, sleeping, or time alone as ways of coping with the stress they feel.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — An Invitation to the Flagstaff Community

We’re very pleased with the outcome of the vote on Proposition 480 where 73% of voters chose to overturn the NAH request to rezone 98 acres near Ft. Tuthill for a new hospital. F3, in coalition with others, helped make this happen. We gathered signatures to ensure the referendum was placed on the ballot, we worked to educate the community about the choices posed and the consequences of the vote. Flagstaff spoke loud and clear and in a non-partisan manner against a new hospital and wellness village on the edge of town.
 

With the rejection of 480, Flagstaff is now provided with a great opportunity! We can now start a true community discussion about the healthcare needs in Northern Arizona. Here’s what F3 believes must happen now:

Community gathers for traditional Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration in Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — More than 100 luminarias surrounded Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel as traditional music could be heard coming from inside during the annual Celebration Our Lady of Guadalupe held Dec. 12, 2023 in Flagstaff.

Participants to the Celebration met the previous evening at the chapel to take part in a procession to San Francisco de Asis Church on Route 66. After a scheduled brief stop at the Flagstaff Fire Dept.Station 2 for coffee and other drinks and sweets, participants walked up to the church watch a dance by Las Matachines de San Francisco de Asis, the Rosary (led by teens), a play and consecration to Mary.

At the celebration on Dec. 12 at the chapel, participants were greeted by the glow  luminaries surrounding the chapel. placed by members of  Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces.

The celebration included a Rosary, lead by Las Guadalupanas, followed by the presentation of Las Mañanitas, the Mass in English, with coffee, Mexican chocolate and pan dulce served in the church’s basement.

CHAC, other County Diversity Councils celebrate the holiday season by participating in the 2023 Flagstaff Holiday Parade of Lights

FLAGSTAFF — Despite of chilly evening that started in the low ’30s, throngs of families lined the streets of downtown Flagstaff to watch the annual Flagstaff Holiday Parade of Lights held on Dec. 9, 2023.

Presented by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and the Vora Financial Group, the parade featured more than 60 entries, including Coconino County and members from the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC), the County’s Diversity Council and other supporters.

Banners displayed on the decorated vehicles included those from CHAC, the Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council and the African Diaspora Advisory Council.

‘That Others May Live: CCC Student CJ Crowley Takes a Selfless Stand’

FLAGSTAFF — CJ Crowley stands in the CCC Commons posing for his picture – his demeanor is calm, cool and collected. Crowley, a 29-year-old native of Loma Linda, California, is known on CCC’s campus as a man of many lived experiences.  In his words, “Everyone has a story maybe mine will resonate with readers. I hope it does. I want others to know that you don’t have to let past mistakes define you.”

Crowley’s journey began with a childhood marked by constant change, as his father, a minister in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, led the family on a journey to various places. Eventually, CJ found himself in Arkansas, where he attended a Christian boarding school. It was there that he was invited to join the gymnastics team.

“I was a ground tumbler, and my favorite move was the full layout,” Crowley recalls, reflecting on his early days in gymnastics. He excelled in the sport, staying active and even playing basketball while gaining skills in gymnastics. His talents on the mat did not go unnoticed, and he was offered a gymnastics scholarship at Southwestern University in Texas. Crowley earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Kinesiology, but he soon realized that the traditional 9-to-5 employment in his chosen career field was not fulfilling.

With a family background steeped in military service, including his father’s service during the Cold War and his brother’s tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, it was only natural that the military presented itself as a potential path.

Flagstaff community input needed – Take the Community Rail Safety survey today!

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is asking community members to take its Community Rail Safety Survey to provide input on rail safety. Questions include preferred solutions to reduce risk at roadway rail crossings as well as preferred educational and enforcement solutions to improve safety. To take the survey, visit surveymonkey.com/r/COFDMWeb.

The City of Flagstaff and BNSF are partnering to develop a Community Rail Safety Plan in conjunction with design and construction of several large civil works projects along the Flagstaff rail corridor (comprising the Lone Tree Overpass and Downtown Mile projects). This plan will help address areas of risk and identify mitigations to improve safety throughout Flagstaff.

Green Party of Coconino County Qualifies for 2024 Ballot

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s Elections Department would like to announce that the Green Party of Coconino County has qualified as a new party for County races in the 2024 Primary and General Elections.

On November 17, 2023 the Green Pary of Coconino County filed a purported 258 petition sheets with 1,993 signatures. Upon receipt and after processing, the Coconino County Elections Department (Elections) counted 1,997 signatures submitted and rejected 42 petition signatures pursuant to A.R.S. § 16-803(B). 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 11-15, 2023

Portions of the North Kaibab trail, between Manzanita and Supai Tunnel, will be closed beginning at sunrise on Monday, December 18 and ending at sunset on Sunday, December 24. Closures will be in effect from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. to allow for contractors to install seismic survey nodes in Roaring Springs Canyon.

Work crews will be installing survey nodes in highly technical terrain above the trail, which may result in inadvertent and unpredictable rock fall onto the North Kaibab Trail. These survey nodes are small, wireless sensors that will be able to detect and record seismic activity in the area.

For the latest trail updates, please visit the park’s Critical Backcountry Updates page.

Grand Canyon National Park’s Elizabeth Aurnou Wins Prestigious Aviation Award

GRAND CANYON — Grand Canyon National Park congratulates U.S. Park Ranger Elizabeth “Betsy” Aurnou as the 2023 winner of the National Park Service (NPS) Wright Brothers National Aviation Safety Award.

Aurnou was nominated by her team for her diligence and leadership in removing hazardous and historic telephone lines from the main flight corridor in the park. Since 2020, she has worked collaboratively with many divisions to facilitate the removal of sections of telephone line from challenging and technical terrain within the inner canyon. During the 2023 season, Aurnou helped facilitate the removal of hundreds of yards of telephone lines after learning of the dangers of the existing lines to pilots and aircrews.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Dec. 13, 2023 Special Update

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wishes you a Happy and Joyful holiday season.

Change is coming in 2024 for our popular News website and our weekly e-newsletter.

Our News website is currently under construction and will merge with our main website next year.

As part of that transition, our regular weekly e-newsletter will also take a break during the next few weeks as we look to give it a fresh look in the coming year.

And we want your help!

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

Thank you to everyone who has already provided some great suggestions for our newsletter so far. Very much appreciated.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!