Author: Community Contributor

United Way of Northern Arizona — ‘My Baby Girl Learned So Much’

Summer always is a special time, and for me one of the biggest highlights of the season is visiting KinderCamp™ classes.

It is always magical watching four- and five-year-olds gaining the confidence and skills they need to make a successful start in kindergarten.

KinderCamp is one of United Way of Northern Arizona’s signature programs to Step Up for Our Youth, and judging from the parents’ comments you’ll see below, it is making a huge impact in the lives of our students.

Many thanks to our partners – and to individual donors like you – who make this program possible.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 10-14, 2023

New Trail Alert QR codes posted at trailheads

This week, in collaboration with the Grand Canyon Office of Communications and the PEP Division, the Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) team launched new QR codes posted to trailhead signs. Visitors can simply scan the Trail Alert barcode using a digital device that will take them to our trails webpage that is updated daily. Information on the webpage will include trail alerts, weather, safety messages, and tips on how visitors can hike smart.

If you interact with the public, feel free to disseminate and use this flyer that contains the QR code. Visit the new webpage here: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/key-messages.htm.

Flagstaff seeking input on budgeting objectives that influence how the City spends taxpayer dollars. Online survey, meetings July 20, 27

The City of Flagstaff is seeking feedback from the public on the Objectives used in its Priority Based Budgeting (PBB) system. Public comments will be accepted through Aug. 4 via an online survey. The City also invites the public to attend two open houses where staff will be available to discuss the PBB Objectives and to answer questions. The dates, times, and locations are below:

Thursday July 20 from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth St,)
Thursday July 27 from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Murdoch Center (203 E Brannen Ave)

Grand Canyon to move overnight backcountry reservations to Recreation.gov

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park plans to move its overnight backcountry reservation system to Recreation.gov for all calendar year 2024 and later permits. This move will help streamline the backcountry permitting process by allowing around 80% of backcountry permits to be directly reserved and paid for online.

The new system will provide applicants with greater control and add additional transparency. Applicants will no longer need to submit applications by fax and wait up to a month for the thousands of requests to be considered manually by park staff.

“Moving our backcountry permits to Recreation.gov has many important advantages. We are pleased to be able to modernize our permit process while keeping visitor safety and resource preservation our top priority,” said Park Superintendent Ed Keable. 

Native American Success Center student finds opportunity at CCC

FLAGSTAFF — Business, accounting and economics are his passions.

Degree in hand and his future in his sights, Coconino Community College alum, current student, accounting intern, and student affairs representative Cole Catron is set to move forward in his higher education journey.

“I always wanted to do something with my life,” Cole said. “And I want to make significant contributions to society. Opportunity has always been my biggest motivator for wanting to pursue college.”

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y thanks those who have served our community

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth would like to thank those individuals who have served our organization and our community in supporting our mission — We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Special thanks go to outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee President Peter Van Wyck, BA, Regional Director, First Things First; outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee Vice President Jennifer Hernandez, Project Manager, Center for the Future of Arizona and outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee Treasurer Theresa Kulpinski, Program Manager for Coconino County Health & Human Services.

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The NAU Review — Meet NAU’s 2023 Udall Scholar and the Dorrance Scholars cohort and science writer Melissa Sevigny talks about her new book

Rebekah McNiel, a business management and modern languages double major, received the prestigious Udall Scholarship for Native American Initiatives in 2023. McNiel, a member of the Honors College, is passionate about change through education and Native American leadership. With long-term goals to positively impact the Navajo Nation, McNiel is committed to learning from other cultures and studying sustainable business practices. Her remarkable journey, from reconnecting with her Navajo heritage to engaging in community service and pursuing transformative experiences abroad, has shaped her character and perspective. 

Coconino County and City of Flagstaff Successfully Test Siren System Enhancements

COCONINO COUNTY — Recently, Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff completed a successful test of the flash flooding siren system along Spruce Wash. This test ensured that critical system enhancements functioned properly prior to the 2023 monsoon season.

Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) closures scheduled near Frances Short Pond to allow for dredging

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) segments near Frances Short Pond will be closed effective Tuesday, July 11 for the safety of the public during dredging work at the pond. The impacted FUTS segments will be reopened after the dredging work is complete, which is anticipated by the beginning of August.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 3-7, 2023

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration has announced the award of $27.5 million to the National Park Service for the Grand Canyon National Park Shuttle Bus Fleet Replacement project in Arizona.

The project includes 30 new buses, including 10 new battery electric buses and 20 new compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, to replace the current aging fleet and the installation of charging infrastructure to support the new electric buses.

“The necessary replacement of the outdated shuttle bus fleet is an opportunity to upgrade to cleaner, quieter electric buses,” said Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable. “This project will address transportation challenges related to maintaining an aging fleet, and the NPS goal to achieve sustainable transportation alternatives.”

A full news release of the announcement can be found at the link here. Photos from the announcement on July 6 at Hopi Point can be found here. 

CHAC, community celebrates 2023 Flagstaff 4th of July Parade

FLAGSTAFF — More than 90 entries took part in the annual Flagstaff 4th of July Parade presented by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce.

This year’s festivities began in the far northern reaches of Beaver Street, through downtown and up through San Francisco Street.

Members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) once again took part in the annual event, participating with the Coconino County entry.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $27.5 Million for Grand Canyon National Park Shuttle Bus Fleet Replacement Project as Part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced the award of $27.5 million to the National Park Service (NPS) for the Grand Canyon National Park Shuttle Bus Fleet Replacement project in Arizona. The project includes 30 new buses, including 10 new battery electric buses and 20 new compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, to replace the current aging fleet and the installation of charging infrastructure to support the new electric buses. An estimated 6 million people visit the park each year and use the free shuttle buses to access destinations throughout the Grand Canyon.

“Grand Canyon National Park is one of our most beloved national parks,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This grant, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help ensure safe and reliable bus service for park visitors for decades to come.”

City of Flagstaff requests arguments for and against proposed election questions

FLAGSTAFF — Prior to the Nov. 7, 2023 election, each household with a registered voter will receive an informational pamphlet that includes arguments for and against proposed questions that have a local impact. The pamphlet is to include arguments for and against the proposed amendments to the Flagstaff City Charter and arguments for and against a potential Referendum No. 01-2023 relating to Ordinance No. 2023-11. In the event the referendum is unsuccessful for any reason at any time in qualifying for the ballot, the arguments regarding the referendum will not be included in the publicity pamphlet. Any person interested in submitting an argument is required to do so before 5 p.m., Arizona time on Aug. 9, 2023.

Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project Starts Monday

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s contractor is preparing to break ground on the Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project.

This $1.95 million project will replace the existing pavement in travel lanes along the 6.4-mile stretch of Lake Mary Road from the Flagstaff city limits south to approximately Milepost (MP) 333, which is just north of the Upper Lake Mary boat dock and recreation area.

C & E Paving & Grading is scheduled to work weekdays during daylight hours with some weekend work possible. Traffic control will be in place to guide vehicles through the construction zone.

Coconino National Forest and City of Flagstaff to partner on Inner Basin water pipeline repair

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District and the City of Flagstaff will both soon begin repairing flood damage to the Inner Basin water pipeline and along nearby forest roads.

The pipeline, which was damaged due to post-wildfire flooding caused by the 2022 Pipeline Fire, has been losing millions of gallons of water each day.

The project – formally titled the Inner Basin Waterline Post Fire Repairs Road Reconstruction Project – is outlined in a decision memo that was recently signed into effect by Coconino NF Supervisor Aaron Mayville.

Sedona Arts Center — Call for Artists

– Application Deadline: January 20, 2024

Sedona Arts Center Artists of all levels, working in all mediums are invited to enter into our Annual Juried Exhibition & Sale. The exhibition will run from March 6-31, 2024

Monetary awards will be given for First Place/Best of Show Award ($500), Second ($250)  and Third ($150) place.
Honorable mention awards will be awarded at the discretion of the jurors and no monetary amount attached.
People’s Choice Award is announced at the end of the show. No monetary attached.

Please Join Friends of Flagstaff’s Future Thursday, July 6, at 12:30 on the Steps of City Hall

Flagstaff Community First, a broad coalition of organizations (including F3) and individuals advocating for accessible, quality health care in Flagstaff and the region, will deliver of over 4,800 signatures to the City Clerk (on July 6) to place a referendum on the ballot.

The referendum will allow the public to weigh in on City Council’s June 6 rezoning decision that gave Northern Arizona Healthcare the go-ahead to move the hospital from the center of town. Flagstaff Community First launched the petition drive in order to refer the zoning decision to a vote of the public. 

United Way of Northern Arizona hiring Northeast representative

United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) is recruiting for a new Northeast Representative position as part of a strategic plan to address critical needs in Navajo and Apache counties.

The position will serve as the local point of contact for a region that includes the towns of Winslow, Holbrook, Snowflake-Taylor, Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, Springerville, Eagar, St. Johns, and Concho. A full description of the position and its requirements can be found here.

Historically an economically challenged area, the region has faced a reduction in jobs due to power plant closures, as well as a dramatic increase in population, which has led to a shortage of affordable housing, increased rental costs, and increased needs.

Discover Flagstaff — First Friday ArtWalk, Heritage Square on July 7, other eventsStroll throughout Downtown Flagstaff to see and purchase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, ceramics, and more! 5 p.m. Free

Stroll throughout Downtown Flagstaff to see and purchase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, ceramics, and more! 5 p.m. Free.

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

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.

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District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter

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

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!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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​​​​​​​

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. 

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City of Flagstaff announces Fourth of July closure

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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). 

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

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

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!

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.

Summer is a fun time to take art classes!

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

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

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

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.

Coconino County Jury Commissioner Warns Residents of New Jury Scam

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

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

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. 

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coconino County Health and Human Services celebrates annual ‘Walk for Wellness’

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) celebrated the completion of Mental Health Month with the annual “Walk for Wellness!” held Saturday, June 10 at Buffalo Park.

Some of the groups presenting information at the event included the AZ Health Zone, the Arizona Dept. of Economic Security — Arizona Early Intervention Program, CCHHS’ Prescription Drug Overdose Prevention Program, First Things First, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, Girl Scouts arizona cactus-pine and Native Americans for Community Action (NACA).

The NAU Review — Celebrating Juneteenth, Climb to Conquer Cancer, student’s Carnegie Hall premiere, summer concert series and Notes from the President

Celebrating Juneteenth

Last year, 158 years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed all enslaved people, President Joe Biden deemed that day a national holiday, allowing the freedom of all U.S. citizens to officially be celebrated. This weekend, join in on a variety of events that honor the past, present and the hope for a more inclusive future.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Communications Issue #30: F3 Supports a Public Vote on Council’s NAH Decision

In the wake of City Council’s June 6 decision to approve the Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) request for rezoning 98 acres to allow for a new hospital north of Ft. Tuthill, F3 has decided to support the work of the Flagstaff Community First (FCF) PAC to gather signatures for a referendum to allow Flagstaff residents to vote on this decision. A referendum is a way for voters to override a legislative decision at the state or city level and is a critically important part of the democratic process.