Category: Commentary

ECoNA Virtual ‘Open Houses’ on Milton Road and US 180 Next Week

by Community Contributor • November 13, 2020 • Comments Off

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will be holding two virtual “open houses” next week to discuss the future of two major traffic corridors in Flagstaff that often suffer from congestion, particularly during the summer and winter months when tourists come to escape the heat and play in the snow.

The focus of the two online meetings will be Milton Road and the U.S. 180 corridor, primarily Fort Valley Road and Humphreys Street. Often gridlocked at the best of times, these roadways need improvements to keep up with university, population and visitation growth.

LAUNCH Flagstaff — We’re Counting on You – Thank You!

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2020 • Comments Off

I ended my first email by saying that with your help we can make a difference in the educational outcomes for every child in Flagstaff.  So, I’ll start this final email by focusing on you.

I mentioned that LAUNCH Flagstaff is foremost an idea that leverages existing community organizations, businesses, policy makers, and citizens that produces systemic changes through collaborative action.

The changes we seek happen in the hearts and minds of each person and each organization in Flagstaff.  I thank you for your current level of engagement in this important work and I invite you to consider additional ways you can help improve outcomes for our kids.

Here are some ideas:

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — COVID-19 Testing Available: Get Tested!

by Community Contributor • November 9, 2020 • Comments Off

COVID-19 Testing Available: Get Tested!

Commentary — Thanks to all who have voted and are waiting for democracy to do its work

by AmigosNAZ.com • November 6, 2020 • Comments Off

Thank you all very much for participating in our democracy by casting your ballot during the Nov. 3, 2020, general election.

No matter who you have voted for, you have set national records in participation this year — all during a time of one of the worst pandemics in our nation’s history.

Now, the hard part begins. Patience.

As we write this, various news agencies are reporting that former Vice President Joe Biden has won Pennsylvania to put him over the 270 electoral votes needed to become the 46th U.S. President.

Those news services include:

Associated Press — Biden wins White House, vowing new direction for divided US
CNBC — Election 2020 live results: Biden projected to defeat Trump, claims national mandate
CNN — Election results live: Joe Biden wins presidency
Fox News — Fox News projects Biden to defeat Trump, become 46th president after winning Nevada, Pennsylvania
NBC News — Biden defeats Trump to win White House, NBC News projects
New York Times — Joe Biden Wins 2020 President Election
NPR — Biden Wins Presidency, According To AP, Edging Trump In Turbulent Race
Washington Post — Biden Defeats Trump

However, thousands of ballots remain to be counted in Arizona, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. We owe it to election workers to complete their jobs and count every single ballot.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Why Early Childhood Education is the ‘Golden Ticket’

by Community Contributor • November 6, 2020 • Comments Off

According to the Association for Supportive Child Care, almost 1 in 3 young children in Arizona live in poverty. More than half of low-income children are not prepared for kindergarten. That is not only a tragedy for the present; it means their, and our, future is at risk too.

Because the majority of children who start behind, stay behind. They are less likely to be ready for kindergarten or to read at grade level during elementary school; they have more behavioral issues; they have higher high school dropout rates; and without their diploma, their economic prospects are dimmed.

Commentary — YES, Every Vote Counts — VOTE!

by Community Contributor • October 30, 2020 • Comments Off

Given the news reports out there that the many have not turned in their mail-in ballots, it’s time to remind them about the election of 2016.

YES, EVERY VOTE COUNTS!!!, whether you live in Miami or Flagstaff, Detroit or Page, Scranton or Williams.

Nov. 3 is creeping up fast. If you have a ballot, fill them out ASAP and drop them off at OFFICIAL BALLOT BOXES. It’s too late to use the U.S. Post Office.

Otherwise, plan to take advantage of in-person early voting on Friday, Oct. 30.

Coconino County voters who may have health concerns or worry about contracting the COVID 19 coronavirus may participate in emergency early voting at several locations across the county on Saturday, October 31 and Monday, November 2.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Important Information About Voting

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2020 • Comments Off

Vote early in person: Early voting is available up until Friday, October 30 at these locations: Early Voting Sites. Please note that some locations are closed on Fridays.

NOTE: New Voter ID requirements for voting early in person are now in effect. See ID Required to Vote In Person for list of acceptable ID.

How can I return my voted early ballot?

Return your early ballot in any of the following ways:
Mail your ballot no later than Tuesday, October 27, 2020
Drop your ballot off at one of these Ballot Drop Box Locations or Drive-Up/Drop-Off Locations on the Navajo Nation.
Deliver your ballot to any early voting location in the county prior to Election Day, during the hours the site is open.
Deliver your ballot to any polling place or vote center in the county on Election Day between 6 am to 7 pm (local time).

See also Tips on Returning Your Early Ballot…

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Important Information About Voting

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2020 • Comments Off

Vote early in person: Early voting is available up until Friday, October 30 at these locations: Early Voting Sites. Please note that some locations are closed on Fridays.

NOTE: New Voter ID requirements for voting early in person are now in effect. See ID Required to Vote In Person for list of acceptable ID.

How can I return my voted early ballot?

See also Tips on Returning Your Early Ballot.

Early ballots must be received no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day, November 3, 2020.

Where can I go to vote on Election Day?

You may find your polling location online by searching your residence address or by looking up this list of polling places.

Turning of the seasons at the Museum of Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2020 • Comments Off

Message from Mary –

Fall is in the air and the oak and aspen trees around the museum are turning gorgeous colors. This is the time of year when we would normally be preparing for Celebraciones, but of course we are not able to have such a large gathering this year. Instead, we’re celebrating Dia de los Muertos with two beautiful community ofrendas. One is in the museum building courtesy of Flagstaff Nuestras Raices and the other in our Colton Community Garden. I hope you’ll come see them.

As the colder weather and shorter days bring us inside, the museum offers many experiences to enjoy indoors, whether by signing up for the Docent Training program, embarking on a virtual trip through the Grand Canyon with geologist Wayne Ranney, or coming to visit the museum. The staff and I look forward to seeing you at MNA, online or in person.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Victim Witness Services for Coconino County presents Domestic Violence Awareness Month events

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2020 • Comments Off

For the month of October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Victim Witness Services for Coconino County is doing a Campaign for Healthy Relationships throughout Coconino County. While it is important to recognize that domestic violence is a real problem that people deal with daily, we also want to recognize a way to prevent it is by knowing about and striving for healthy relationships.

To continue our video series, the next video has been posted https://youtu.be/UP_UuVrMTWw. We will continue releasing these videos every Monday and Friday of the month.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — North Country HealthCare and Coconino County Health & Human Services Williams COVID-19 Testing on Oct. 15

by Community Contributor • October 14, 2020 • Comments Off

North Country HealthCare and Coconino
County Health & Human Services Williams
COVID-19 Testing Event

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Small Business Relief Grant Program Opens Today!

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2020 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance (FDBA) is pleased to announce a new Small Business Grant Relief Program to help small businesses as they continue to face the financial impact related to COVID-19. The first round of this program has contributions totaling $30,000, provided by the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County and Northern Arizona University.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Fight the Flu: Get your Flu shot!

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2020 • Comments Off

October 9, 2020 Coconino County Government ELIZABETH C. ARCHULETA Supervisor, District 2 Special Edition Supervisor Liz Archuleta; (928) 679-7152; larchuleta@coconino.az.gov Theresa M. Munoz, Executive Assistant; (928) 679-7162; tmunoz@coconino.az.gov In This Newsletter: Quote of the Day Doney Park Timberline Fernwood Community Survey…

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — There is still time to complete the 2020 Census (Oct. 31)

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2020 • Comments Off

There is still time to complete the 2020 Census.

(The Census Bureau has received an extension for the 2020 Census and will complete their counting efforts on October 31)

The current self-response rate in Coconino County is 45.6% as of today, while the rest of Arizona is at 63.2%.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — County Fire Ban Remains in Effect

by Community Contributor • October 5, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance remains in effect due to dry conditions throughout the County. The open fire ban has been in place since earlier this spring due to dry conditions and lack of monsoon rains.

The County does wish to clarify that the ordinance and the fire ban do not apply to open fire maintained indoors in a fireplace for providing warmth. As temperatures drop overnight, the open fire ban does not apply to keeping residences warm and safe through controlled open fires in fireplaces or wood stoves.
Persons needing utility assistance for electric, gas, wood, water and propane (100 gallons or more) are asked to call Coconino County Health and Human Services, Community Services at 928-679-7453. Income eligibility requirements apply. Rental assistance is also available. Visit https://coconino.az.gov/149/Social-Services for more information.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — American Red Cross in Need of Volunteers

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2020 • Comments Off

Greetings Constituents,

I am writing to you today to spread the word about the need for volunteers to support the American Red Cross response to disasters like Hurricanes Laura and Sally and the wildfires that are raging out west. As you are aware 2020 has presented us with a series of unprecedented disasters with the added challenge of operating during a global pandemic. The Red Cross is up for the challenge to respond to disasters both here in Arizona and across the country, but we need the help of our community to bolster our available workforce.

We have a critical need for volunteers who are licensed healthcare professionals as well as people to help with sheltering. We are operating a little differently this year to provide the safest environment possible for our workforce and the clients we serve, but our mission to provide shelter to people displaced by disasters remains the same.

ECoNA — Happy Manufacturing Month

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2020 • Comments Off

Welcome to Manufacturing Month!

Nationwide, the industry uses the month of October to showcase the potential of modern manufacturing and generate interest in manufacturing careers. According to the Manufacturing Institute, the sector will be looking to fill 4.6 million high-skill and high-paying jobs over the next decade.

Northern Arizona has a wide range of manufacturing businesses in the region, from the area’s largest private employer, W.L. Gore, to smaller companies producing everything from defense products to spices.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — 5 days left to fill out the 2020 Census!

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2020 • Comments Off

There are just five days remaining to complete the 2020 Census. The Census Bureau will complete their counting efforts on September 30.

Coconino County urges all residents to complete the Census which can be done in less than 10 minutes. The Census can be completed in a variety of ways, including online at https://my2020census.gov/ or by calling 1-844-330-2020. The current self-response rate in Coconino County is 45.2% as of today, while the rest of Arizona is at 63.2%.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Weekly Update — U.S. Census — Time is running out

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2020 • Comments Off

Respond today at 2020census.gov
or call 844-330-2020
Deadline to complete your 2020 Census is September 30, 2020.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — 9 days left to fill out the 2020 Census!

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2020 • Comments Off

Currently only 45.1% of Coconino County residents have filled out the 2020 Census. This is worrisome because this can result in a SEVERE under count if more of our community members do not respond. The Census is important because it ensures that Coconino County receives federal funds for things like Public Safety, Schools, Roads and Infrastructure, Medicare and Medicaid, and more!

The Census also determines how many seats each state gets in the House of Representatives. It’s important to remember the following when filling out the 2020 Census:

Count everyone who is living in your house on or after 04/01/20 on your census form
The census DOES NOT ask about citizenship
All information collected is required BY LAW to be kept confidential
Make sure to include children and babies when filling out your census
EVERYONE COUNTS!

You count. Your families count. Your neighbors count.

CCC — A quick word from the President

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2020 • Comments Off

Even during this challenging period in our lives, Coconino Community College is making amazing things happen in Coconino County.

The semester is off to a great start, and even though enrollment may not be quite where it was before, faculty and staff across the entire district are working hard to help the semester be a great experience for our students.

I have discovered that our success lies in the teamwork taking place across the college through a virtual format, along with a new problem-solving perspective brought about by this pandemic. We cannot do things the way we have always done them, because so many things in our world are different and changing daily.

Bilingual commentary — Deadline approaching to compete Census, register to vote

by AmigosNAZ.com • September 18, 2020 • Comments Off

With less than a half-month to go, Coconino County still lags behind its U.S. Census 2010 self-response rate.

Okay procrastinators, time to get going!!!

The time is now to fill out U.S. Census forms by Sept. 30, 2020 and also do everything possible to make sure your VOTE COUNTS in during the Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 general election

As of Sept. 17, 2020, Coconino County reported a total self-response rate of 44.9 percent, down from from 51.0 percent from a year ago. The news is event worse for the Navajo Nation, which has reported 19.9 percent self-response rate as of Sept. 17, 2020, down from 29.4 percent in 2010.

Latin American Studies, NAU No More Deaths to present journalist Todd Miller during Zoom presentation on Sept. 21

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2020 • Comments Off

The NAU Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Latin American Studies, and NAU No More Deaths announce journalist Todd Miller will provide a presentation via zoom on Monday, September 21 at 5pm.

Todd Miller is an independent journalist living in Tucson. His work has appeared in many media outlets, including the New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and The Nation. He is the author of three excellent books: Border Patrol Nation: Dispatches from the Frontlines of Homeland Security; Storming the Wall: Climate Change, Migration and Homeland Security; and his newest book Empire of Borders: The Expansion of the US Border Around the World.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Saliva-based COVID-19 Testing Available

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2020 • Comments Off

Saliva-based COVID-19 testing will be available at Fort Tuthill beginning on September 8th. A few items to note for those seeking testing:

📍Children under 5 years old cannot receive saliva tests.
📍Nasopharyngeal testing will continue to be available for individuals under the required age and those who prefer the swab test.
📍Those seeking COVID-19 saliva testing are asked to abstain from food or drink for 30 minutes prior to the test.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Weekly Update — Navajo Business Economic Relief Grant & Navajo Artisans Economic Relief Grant

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2020 • Comments Off

The Navajo Business Economic Relief Grant is to assist Navajo businesses facing financial hardship and/or business interruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic with financial assistance for necessary expenditures. This grant is designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their employees on the payroll, provide for economic assistance with operating expenses and promote overall economic stability to those businesses facing the impacts of closure due to the COVID-19
pandemic.

The Red Cross needs YOUR help

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2020 • Comments Off

There is a need for volunteers to support the American Red Cross response to disasters like Hurricanes Laura and Sally and the wildfires that are raging out west. As you are aware 2020 has presented us with a series of unprecedented disasters with the added challenge of operating during a global pandemic. The Red Cross is up for the challenge to respond to disasters both here in Arizona and across the country, but we need the help of our community to bolster our available workforce.

ECoNA — Senator McSally Meets with Advisory Council

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2020 • Comments Off

Last week, members of the ECoNA Board and Advisory Council met via teleconference with U.S. Senator Martha McSally to talk about the state of our recovery, chances for a new stimulus package and the resurgence of manufacturing in Arizona.

The lunchtime discussion was just one day before a major vote on the Republicans proposed “slimmed” down relief package, a $500 billion plan that ultimately was blocked by Senate Democrats the following day.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Coconino County Community Development receives Department of Defense Grant

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County Community Development was recently awarded a grant in the amount of $920,000 from the Office of Economic Adjustment through the Department of Defense. This grant will allow for the implementation of key strategies to protect the missions of military installations at Camp Navajo and the Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station (NOFS), and will promote awareness of its activities in the community. These strategies were identified as priorities from a Joint Land Use Study that was concluded approximately one year ago.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y to present Kevin Campbell’s ‘Self-Healing Communities — A Continued Conversation’ on Oct. 7

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2020 • Comments Off

CCC&Y will present Kevin Campbell’s “Self-Healing Communities — A Continued Conversation,” from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2020.

“The starting point for Self -Healing Communities is the recognition of the connection between how we live individually and together. We have built social welfare and health systems on the ideas of needs and services. This approach located problems and solutions within individuals obscuring the need to address structural factors. Our “helping” systems often reflect this view, increasingly defining power imbalances as personal imbalances, resulting in the medicalizing of inequitable experience rather than organizing and supporting people to live socially, environmentally and economically secure lives without depending on systems.”

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Don’t forget to fill out the 2020 Census!

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2020 • Comments Off

Currently only 44.2% of Coconino County residents have filled out the 2020 Census. This is worrisome because this can result in a SEVERE under count if more of our community members do not respond. The Census is important because it ensures that Coconino County receives federal funds for things like Public Safety, Schools, Roads and Infrastructure, Medicare and Medicaid, and more!

The Census also determines how many seats each state gets in the House of Representatives.It’s important to remember the following when filling out the 2020 Census:

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Flu Vaccinations offered at Coconino County Health and Human Services

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2020 • Comments Off

Seasonal influenza vaccine is being offered at the Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Clinic, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff. Drive-up and Walk-up Flu Vaccination Clinics will be held every Friday beginning September 11 and every other Saturday beginning September 12 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. Masks or face coverings are required.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccination as the first step in protecting against flu viruses. It is strongly recommended that everyone 6 months old and over get a flu shot each year.

The cost for a flu vaccination at the CCHHS Clinic is $30. CCHHS is contracted with most major insurance carriers. As a courtesy, CCHHS will bill the insurance carrier, but those seeking a flu shot should check with their insurance provider to determine whether they are covered.

Bilingual commentary — Deadline approaching to compete Census, register to vote

by AmigosNAZ.com • September 11, 2020 • Comments Off

As the nation pauses to honor the sacrifices of those who died on Sept. 11, 2001, there can be no better example of how America reacted to the tragic events that day with a renewed sense of patriotism and dedication to the phrase “Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness.”

America came together following that tragic day, as we need to come together again to honor their sacrifices by taking part in American Democracy by filling out U.S. Census forms by Sept. 30, 2020 and doing everything possible to make sure your VOTE COUNTS in during the Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 general election

During the next few weeks we will highlight the need for our reading audience to take action as these deadlines rapidly approach.

Click here to see the Self-Response Rates Map for Northern Arizona and the rest of the United States.

Bilingual commentary — A September to Remember that Democracy is in Your Hands

by AmigosNAZ.com • September 4, 2020 • Comments Off

Never has a September been more important to American democracy than this year with the deadline approaching (Sept. 30) to fill out U.S. Census forms and to do everything possible to make sure your VOTE COUNTS in during the Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020 general election

During the next few weeks we will highlight the need for our reading audience to take action as these deadlines rapidly approach.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Coconino County offices closed in honor of Labor Day

by Community Contributor • September 4, 2020 • Comments Off

In This Newsletter:

Quote of the Day
Coconino County offices closed in honor of Labor Day
Saliva-based COVID-19 Testing Available
Don’t forget to fill out the 2020 Census!
COVID-19 Daily Dashboard
UPDATED COVID-19 Weekly Report Available
AZDHS COVID-19 Website
Stay Connected with Us!

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Weekly Update

by Community Contributor • September 4, 2020 • Comments Off

All Coconino County administrative offices will be closed Monday, September 7, 2020 in honor of Labor Day.

COVID-19 testing at Fort Tuthill and the COVID-19 Information Line will also be closed. The County’s COVID-19 response efforts will resume on Tuesday, September 8.

Coconino County Health and Humans Services recommends taking extra precautions when participating in Labor Day activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 safety recommendations include:
Avoid close contact with others, avoid large groups.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
Wash hands frequently.
Cover coughs and sneezes.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Practice physical distancing while at social events.
Skip the celebratory events, if sick over the holiday

ECoNA — County Fair & SciFest at a Screen Near You

by Community Contributor • September 3, 2020 • Comments Off

As we head into this holiday weekend, I want to congratulate the organizers of two of the biggest events on the Flagstaff calendar for their ingenuity in bringing us virtual versions of these annual celebrations.

For fans of the Coconino County Fair, it’s not easy to capture the sounds, smells and thrills of the Fair, but the folks at Coconino County Parks & Recreation have done their best to bring the experience into your home.

Would you like to see the 4-H Livestock Show? How about 7-plus hours of steers, pigs, goats and lambs right here. (They’ll also be hosting the auction over these next three days online).

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — COVID-19 Surge Testing Extended!

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) in partnership with the Federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will extend its COVID-19 Testing Surge.

The testing sites offer self-administered nasal swabs and are operational as follows:
Fort Tuthill County Park, 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop, Flagstaff, AZ
Now through September 4, daily, noon – 8 p.m.
University Union Fieldhouse at NAU, 1050 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff, AZ
Now through August 30, daily, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m
Motel 6, 831 W. Rt. 66, Williams, AZ (parking lot)
Now through August 24, daily, noon – 8 p.m.
August 25 – September 3, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, noon – 5 p.m.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Action Item permit request to conduct acid-fracking operations in the Little Colorado River Basin

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2020 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff Water Group published an important editorial in Saturday’s AZDaily Sun on a permit request to conduct acid-fracking operations in the Little Colorado River Basin in areas over the Coconino Aquifer, thereby potentially affecting Red Gap Ranch water, a potential future water source for Flagstaff.

Although this is very short notice, the issue is extremely important and we urge you to read the editorial statement (below) and send your comments to greenslade.maribeth@azdeq.gov. NO LATER THAN EARLY A.M. AUGUST 26th.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — CCHHS Clinic Set to Reopen

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health & Human Services (CCHHS) Clinic, 2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff, will reopen on Monday, August 31. Services will be offered Monday through Thursday from 8 am to 5 pm. Appointments are required and are available by calling 928-679-7222.

Health and wellness services, including wellness exams, sports physicals, STI testing and treatment, pap testing, pregnancy testing, birth control and IUD/Nexplanon insertion and removal, will be available Mondays and Thursdays from 8 am to 5 pm by appointment only.

Vaccinations required for Arizona school entry and vaccinations recommended for children and adults by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are available by appointment on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — 2020 Emergency Preparedness Guide

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2020 • Comments Off

In This Newsletter:

Quote of the Day
2020 Emergency Preparedness Guide
Virtual Master Gardening Class for Northern Arizona
Don’t forget to fill out the 2020 Census!
Coconino County COVID-19 Testing Surge registration
COVID-19 Daily Dashboard
COVID-19 Weekly Report Available
AZDHS COVID-19 Website
Stay Connected with Us!

Museum of Northern Arizona — Get in on the action, and the auction

by Community Contributor • August 19, 2020 • Comments Off

Many of you have been in touch with me to say how much you enjoy the information you get in these newsletters. Thanks for those messages – the staff and I always appreciate hearing from you. We are all now focused on our fundraising Gala To Go on August 29th. We’ve had to completely reimagine this event and it’s shaping up to be an amazing experience. Going online means all aspects of MNA will be represented in the program, showcasing the wonderful range of art, science, and culture of our region. Ticket holders will be able to enjoy this program online from anywhere and will also be able to bid on an array of fun experiences and fine art, including a Gunnar Widforss watercolor, a print by Gustave Baumann, and an intricate rug by Jackson Dean. In addition to a great showcase, this is an important fundraiser for MNA. I encourage you to support MNA by purchasing a ticket to the Gala To Go, and inviting family and friends to join you from wherever they are. We’ve all missed so much this year.
You don’t want to miss this!

Coconino Community College — CCC focuses on safety this fall with remote learning

by Community Contributor • August 17, 2020 • Comments Off

The Fall semester is a week away.

How is it that time seems to move so very quickly and yet so very slowly during a pandemic? I think it is because we so very much miss seeing our students and our communities up close and in person. And yet, Coconino Community College is moving right along.

This year, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, we at CCC have chosen Remote Delivery methods for our courses in the interest of the health and safety of our students, faculty, staff and the community. Our motto for this time is “Be Stellar, Be Safe.” Going to remote delivery was a difficult decision because all of us, especially our faculty, want to have that personal contact with our students, and some of our students would absolutely prefer to learn that way.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Click Here to Fill Out the 2020 Census Online

by Community Contributor • August 14, 2020 • Comments Off

Currently only 42.1% of Coconino County residents have filled out the 2020 Census. This is worrisome because this can result in a SEVERE under count if more of our community members do not respond. The Census is important because it ensures that Coconino County receives federal funds for things like Public Safety, Schools, Roads and Infrastructure, Medicare and Medicaid, and more!

The Census also determines how many seats each state gets in the House of Representatives.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Invitation to the Community

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2020 • Comments Off

CCC&Y Vision — “We envision a holistic community where all children of Coconino County are increasingly free from trauma experience and all have equitable opportunities that build resiliency.”

“Trauma, equitable and resiliency, those are words that excite me and I hope you will learn more about the Coalition, learn a little bit more about those words mean and what your role can be to support that countywide,” said Rene RedDay in the opening of a Vlog released this week by the organization.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler’s Weekly Update

by Community Contributor • August 12, 2020 • Comments Off

Thank you for taking COVID-19 seriously. The sacrifices you’re making during this time – closing of businesses, cancelling of gatherings and social distancing from those you love are not in vain. These are incredibly important as we are doing all we can to slow the spread and flatten the curve. Remember Coconino County to mask up!

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.

LULAC Says Shortening Census Period Hurts Latinos

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2020 • Comments Off

Sindy Benavides, National Chief Executive Officer of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) issued the following statement about the Administration’s decision to end the self-reporting window and door knocking operations one-month earlier for the 2020 Census.

“It is simply inconceivable that we can achieve a full and accurate count by these actions at the time we need it most during a pandemic that is disproportionately impacting Latinos. This is yet another tactic from the Trump Administration to make our community invisible with an incomplete enumeration, which impacts critical funding, representation, and redistricting. Instead of ramping up its work, the Census Bureau cites the COVID-19 pandemic as the reason for deciding to cut short the two most critical aspects of the census. First, there is the self-reporting phase and that is followed by community outreach to contact individuals and families who for one reason or another have not done so.

Statement from U.S. Census Bureau Director Steven Dillingham — Delivering a Complete and Accurate 2020 Census Count

by Community Contributor • August 7, 2020 • Comments Off

The U.S. Census Bureau continues to evaluate its operational plans to collect and process 2020 Census data. We are announcing updates to our plan that will include enumerator awards and the hiring of more employees to accelerate the completion of data collection and apportionment counts by our statutory deadline of December 31, 2020, as required by law and directed by the Secretary of Commerce. The Census Bureau’s new plan reflects our continued commitment to conduct a complete count, provide accurate apportionment data, and protect the health and safety of the public and our workforce.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Does the support stop when difficult conversations arise?

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2020 • Comments Off

Community healing is not something someone (the savior) does to another (the needy). Community healing is what happens when we internalize that we are all one, that the choices of the past mingle with the experiences of the present and none of us are free from the consequences of our actions -both individual and collective.

Sadly, some non-profits are reporting lost donors because they decided to address social justice and equity issues (or in some cases just comment) due to the current events transpiring in our nation. Quite frankly, this has angered me and further exemplifies how ingrained inequity is in each facet of our society. More than equity- it shows how voice, control and power work throughout systems and perpetuate problems year after year. I am pleased to report that the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth (CCC&Y) has not experienced this situation. Through all of this, our membership has steadily increased.

ECoNA COVID-19 Bulletin #11: Historic GDP & HEALS vs HEROES

by Community Contributor • July 31, 2020 • Comments Off

This was a week of eye-popping numbers at the federal level, from the release of the Republicans long-awaited stimulus proposal to the data dropped yesterday by the U.S. Commerce Department that showed how coronavirus has impacted gross domestic product (GDP).

#1. Exactly how much did the GDP lose? Let’s take that last one first, because there is some confusion about the numbers released by Commerce. In fact, you might have seen two vastly different headlines – one saying the economy contracted by 9.5% during the past quarter and one saying it was 32.9%.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Back to School Immunization Clinics

by Community Contributor • July 29, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health & Human Services (CCHHS) is holding Back to School Immunization Clinics, Monday, August 3 through Saturday, August 8, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at the King Street building, 2625 N. King St., Flagstaff. The clinics will be located in the parking lot.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — COVID-19 Testing scheduled in Williams

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS), in collaboration with North Country HealthCare and other community partners, will offer COVID-19 Testing in Williams, AZ on Thursday, July 30 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The testing site will be located in the Williams Elementary/Middle School parking lot, 601 N. 7th St., Williams AZ. Those attending are asked to enter at the north side of the campus. Testing will occur in the bus loop.

No appointment or healthcare provider order is needed.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Search on for new Executive Director

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2020 • Comments Off

Our search for a new Executive Director is underway! We are very excited to be hiring the next F3 leader to represent and advocate for the goals of F3.

We’re looking for someone who is familiar with the challenges facing communities like Flagstaff and who has a strong track record in community organizing and advocacy work, fundraising, and effective communication.

The full job ad can be found on our website: https://www.friendsofflagstaff.org/now-hiring-executive-director/.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Art & adaptation

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2020 • Comments Off

When the world turned upside down this year, we learned to do somersaults, working from our home offices. The specialist work of caring for our extensive collections is an important part of our mission and continues despite the pandemic, as does our archaeological and ecological fieldwork and the preservation of MNA’s buildings, gardens and landscape. We are finding new and imaginative ways to bring the art, science, and culture of the region to your homes, including a re-imagining of The Annual Gala.

ECoNA — COVID-19 and the Arts

by Community Contributor • July 23, 2020 • Comments Off

While everyone has been hard hit by COVID-19, it has been particularly difficult for the arts sector, where finding social-distancing workarounds can be challenging. Coronavirus has temporarily put an end to First Friday Artwalks, crowded summer festivals, and attending concerts and theater productions.

Not to say that the arts in our region have come to a full stop. The Museum of Northern Arizona reopened recently on a limited basis, with patrons having to purchase tickets and schedule their visit in advance so the museum can spread out visitors. Masks are required and multiple other measures have been taken to prevent COVID-19 spread.

Coconino Community College — The Comet

by Community Contributor • July 17, 2020 • Comments Off

We take the word “community” seriously. It’s a part of our name, and being involved in communities across Coconino County is integral to our philosophy as a college.

That’s why those of us at the college were so excited when nearly 60 people and agencies from all over the county took the time to expertly craft and submit floats to the virtual Coconino County Community Shoebox Parade hosted by CCC. For a list of the winning floats and to get a look at the parade, see the story below.

As this pandemic unfolds around us, many people shared with me that they found it comforting to enjoy the creativity and the passion displayed in the shoebox parade, and my hope is that others did as well.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Announcing the Mask Responsibly Art Contest!

by Community Contributor • July 15, 2020 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff Arts Council is excited to announce the Please Stay, Play Distance & Mask Responsibly Art Contest in collaboration with the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County. This contest promotes creativity while social distancing, reflection on the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and drives awareness of important public health guidelines.

Bilingual report — Gina Santi Photography Images of the Month – July 2020

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2020 • Comments Off

La Casa della Fontana Piccola, (the House of the Small Fountain) is perhaps the most refined and elegant mansion of Pompeii. It is a typical dwelling of the local ruling class, a small atrium house located in a privileged spot along Via di Mercurio. The house owes its name to a beautiful fountain decorated with shells, colorful mosaics, and bronze statuettes, located at the very back of the central garden.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Museum exhibits reopen

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2020 • Comments Off

This is a year of constantly evolving changes for all of us, including MNA. After months trying to reimagine the annual summer festivals celebrating Indigenous arts and culture in a way that they could safely continue, we have determined that we must cancel the festivals completely. We make this decision with heavy hearts, recognizing that these festivals are important to the community, and particularly to the artists. We initially hoped that we would be able to reschedule the festivals to a single larger event in September. We now know that it is unlikely we can hold a large gathering in September, even if it was going to be outdoors and dispersed. Sad as we are to make this decision, we will now turn our energy to finding other ways to help the Native artists market themselves and to allow our members to support the Native populations.

[ECONA] COVID-19 Bulletin #10: Hitting the ‘Rewind’ Button

by Community Contributor • July 2, 2020 • Comments Off

It’s been more than a month since our last bulletin on how coronavirus is affecting the regional economic landscape. Since that time, we’ve gone from cautious reopening to reversals as COVID-19 cases spiked in Arizona. Here’s the latest:

#1. Governor Doug Ducey hits the ‘rewind’ button on reopening with select business closures until at least July 27. Back in early May, the governor accelerated the state’s reopening, citing positive trends in coronavirus infection rates. By mid-May, the statewide stay-at-home order expired and within days of that, cases of COVID-19 began to spike.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Resilient Arizona Crisis Counseling Program to Provide Free, Confidential Support and Resources for Arizona Residents Impacted by COVID-19

by Community Contributor • June 29, 2020 • Comments Off

New Bilingual Statewide Program Accessible via 2-1-1 Arizona
In partnership with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and made possible by Federal Emergency Management Agency Grant funding, Crisis Response Network (CRN) announces that the new Resilient Arizona Crisis Counseling Program was launched on June 22, 2020, to provide 100% free and confidential support and connections to resources for Arizona residents impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Accessible via CRN’s existing 2-1-1 statewide information and referral phone number, the Resilient Arizona Crisis Counseling Program is a bilingual (English and Spanish), federally-funded program that will connect callers to crisis counseling providers in their area throughout the state of Arizona.

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