Category: Family

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Family Protective Factors virtual training to be held Feb. 23

The Strengthening Families Protective Factors framework is a research-based approach to prevent child abuse and neglect, strengthen families, and promote optimal child development. The National Alliance of Children’s Trust and Prevention Funds (Alliance) launched Bringing the Protective Factors Framework to Life in Your Work-A Resource for Actionin 2012. When implemented, the framework helps ensure optimal outcomes for children and their families. These strategies strengthen families, develop responsive family support systems, and strengthen the community’s capacity to establish safe and healthy environments.  

Building Community, LLC, NACOG Head Start and Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth are collaborating to present the Intro course virtually. We invite all interested individuals, family service teams, and community leaders to join us on Tuesday, February 23rd, from 1:00 pm-2:30 pm.  The no-cost course will provide an introduction to the protective factors and strength-based theory. 

United Way of Northern Arizona — Welcoming Our 2021 Officers and New Board Member

Key to the success of the United Way of Northern Arizona is our Board of Directors. We are fortunate that in our 50+ years, this organization has always been led by volunteer leaders who keenly understand the needs of the communities we serve.

Recently, we held our organizational meeting where we named a new Board Chair, installed the 2021 officers, and welcomed a new member.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Flagstaff’s Carbon Neutrality Plan

Flagstaff has an ambitious mission: reach net carbon neutrality by the year 2030. City Council declared a climate change emergency last year, spurred by a citizen’s petition and recent scientific findings. Flagstaff’s Carbon Neutrality Plan updates our award-winning Climate Action and Adaption Plan (2018) by significantly reducing the timeline in which we must work to reach net carbon neutrality. The new target of 100% net carbon neutrality by 2030 is in line with urgent international recommendations that a sharp decline in greenhouse gas emissions is needed in the next nine years in order to avoid exceeding 1.5°C of global warming above pre-industrial levels. Exceeding 1.5°C will lead to irreversible loss of fragile ecosystems and extreme crisis for the most vulnerable people.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Much to look forward to at MNA

Snow finally fell, like a sparkling blanket of hope laid across the landscape. Precipitation in any form is welcome after the driest year on record and we dare to dream that this is a harbinger of things to come – more rain, more vaccines, more ability to gather together. At the same time, we realize a single snowfall won’t end a drought. Nor will the other problems we face disappear quickly.

We are planning for this year with the same creativity, caution, and resilience that got us through last year, ready to continue adapting as we go along. This means many of our annual events are being planned to take place in new ways, and often we set a date closer to the event to assess the current conditions and make a final decision on whether we can go forward or not. Keep reading this newsletter and following us on social media to stay informed.

Today’s News for Coconino County District 2

In This Newsletter:

Quote of the Day
African Diaspora Advisory Council Accepting Entries for its Black History Month Essay Contest
COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Get Tested for COVID-19
Additional COVID-19 Testing Options 
NEW COVID-19 Daily Dashboard
COVID-19 Weekly Report
Have Questions? Call the COVID-19 Information Line
Stay Connected with Us!

The Literacy Center — In Memory of Dr. Ann Beck

As some of you may already know, Dr. Ann Beck recently passed away unexpectedly.  For those of you who didn’t have the opportunity to meet Ann, she was the Executive Director of The Literacy Center for over a decade.  Ann passionately believed in education and literacy for all.  Her commitment to TLC’s mission is why our organization is thriving today.  For those of you who knew Ann, you already know that her energy, her drive, and her unwavering commitment to education were an incredible asset to the Flagstaff community.

Coconino County announces registration has opened for 1,100 COVID Vaccine Appointments for week of Feb. 12-16

Coconino County has opened registration for an additional 1,100 COVID-19 vaccination appointments for a special extended-hours vaccination event Feb. 12 – 16 at the Fort Tuthill County Park vaccination site. The County has been allocated these additional doses from the State of Arizona due to the high performance of Coconino County and partners at administering vaccine to the public. 

Those interested in scheduling an appointment can visit coconino.az.gov/covid19vaccine and navigate to the SPECIAL REGISTRATION – Fort Tuthill, Flagstaff First Dose link. Individuals without internet access or those who require assistance can call the Coconino County COVID-19 Information Line at 928-679-7300. Seniors aged 65 and over who need scheduling assistance will be placed on the County’s senior assistance list. The Information Line hours are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Today’s News for Coconino County District 2

In This Newsletter:

Quote of the Day
Coconino County Diversity Councils Elect Leaders
County Superintendent of Schools to host 2021 Spelling BEE
COVID-19 Vaccine Update
Get Tested for COVID-19
NEW COVID-19 Daily Dashboard
NEW COVID-19 Weekly Report
Have Questions? Call the COVID-19 Information Line
Stay Connected with Us!

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Next CCC&Y Youth ‘Creativity Calling’ virtual showcase to be held on Feb. 7 and more news

This pandemic is challenging for all of us. CCC&Y has a weekly virtual meeting for parents and caregivers to connect and share resources. We have also launched “Creativity Calling,” specifically for youth! This monthly virtual opportunity provides youth a chance to share their thoughts and feelings through the arts. We are seeking youth to share their music, visual art, poetry, dance, theater, or cultural sharing!

Each month four youth will have a 10-minute spotlight.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — February is Black History Month

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors proclaimed February as National Black History Month.

Coconino County recognizes the rich and diverse history of the African Diaspora, a people who shaped continents all over the world.

Coconino County takes pride in the diversity of its residents and recognizes the many contributions of the past generations of our African Diaspora to our lumber and sawmill industries, and notably in the present generation of entrepreneurs, educators, artists, authors, scientists, athletes, community leaders and public servants.

Fort Tuthill County Park Closed to All Without Vaccine Appointment or Flagstaff Snow Park Ticket

Fort Tuthill was closed effectively Jan. 30 to the general public with the exception of those who have a scheduled vaccine appointment, a valid Flagstaff Snow Park ticket, or official business at Luke Air Force Base. The public traffic on Jan. 30 for those wishing to use the park for non-ticketed snow play is severely disrupting vaccine administration and traffic flow. Those without a vaccine appointment, a valid Snow Park ticket, or business on the Air Force Base will not be allowed to enter the Park.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — New Series: In the Coconi-KNOW

Coconino County is bringing you a new series, called the “In the Coconi-KNOW” on Facebook Live today at 12 noon.

Our team will discuss the latest County updates, news and of course, give you a look at the COVID situation in Coconino County. Tune in on the Coconino County Facebook page at noon today!

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — COVID-19 Vaccine: Similarities and Differences

Coconino County will only administer COVID-19 vaccines approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which currently includes the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. There are similarities and differences between the two:
Pfizer is for those ages 16 years and older, and requires 21 days between doses.
Moderna is for those ages 18 years and older, and requires 28 days between doses.
Both are safe and effective.
Both require two doses.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y discusses overcoming childhood trauma on KAFF County’s Pete’s Community Cafe

Virginia Watahomigie, executive director of the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, recently sat down with KAFF Country for a recent Pete’s Community Cafe interview on childhood trauma issues impacting youth and families in the region and the use of techniques to promote healing, growth and build resiliency.

During the interview, Watahomigie discussed how CCC&Y tackles the issue through a variety of online training programs on its https://coconinokids.org/prevention/ webpage.

PreventT2 Lifestyle Change Class in Spanish

Community members are preventing type 2 diabetes together with the FREE PreventT2 lifestyle change program offered by North Country HealthCare. Guided by a trained lifestyle coach, groups of participants are learning the skills they need to make lasting changes such as losing a modest amount of weight, being more physically active, and managing stress.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Coconino County Announcing COVID-19 Testing Site Changes

The Coconino County COVID-19 testing site located at Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff will move to a new location effective Saturday, Jan. 23.

The move to the new site at Coconino Community College (CCC), 2800 S Lone Tree Rd. will allow the County to expand vaccine administration at Fort Tuthill County Park and at mobile sites throughout the County when additional doses of the COVID-19 vaccine become available.  

Coconino County Announcing COVID-19 Testing Site Changes

The Coconino County COVID-19 testing site located at Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff will move to a new location effective Saturday, Jan. 23.

The move to the new site at Coconino Community College (CCC), 2800 S Lone Tree Rd. will allow the County to expand vaccine administration at Fort Tuthill County Park and at mobile sites throughout the County when additional doses of the COVID-19 vaccine become available.  

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y on Jan. 27 to present ‘Igniting Collective Action: Moving Beyond ACEs’

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth will present “Igniting Collective Action: Moving Beyond ACEs” at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27 via Zoom. Click here to register.

Imagine a community in which the effects of childhood trauma are clearly understood, the impact of inequitable experience is acknowledged, and people are aligned toward creating equitable access to assets and protective factors that support positive life outcomes. This training will explore the roadmap to creating change at the community and system level by using the findings of both leadership research and today’s thought leaders.

*Recommended one-hour prerequisite available for community members with limited background about the research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is available at https://coconinokids.org/prevention/

Coconino County, nation honors those lost to COVID-19

Coconino County will join the Presidential Inaugural Committee’s memorial to remember and honor the lives lost to COVID-19.

Starting at 3:30 p.m. Arizona Time, 5:30 p.m. E.T, Americans will come together for a national moment of unity and remembrance. To participate, individuals should light a candle in their window. They may also tune in at 5:30 p.m. ET for a ceremony with President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Harris, featuring the first-ever lighting of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to honor those who have died.

City of Flagstaff announces Library Entry Survey and Invitation to Upload Images

Thank you, Flagstaff, for your input on the library entry re-design! 176 people responded to the survey. Some of the many themes that emerged include value in the natural environment, an interest in geologic and Native/Indigenous history, the importance of the library for children and families, the library as a gathering and meeting place, and a space that offers free amenities and builds community. This follow-up opportunity is to allow you to share images with the City as well! The tool allows for one photo at once, feel free to provide input several times.

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

Coconino County Moves to Include Those 65 and Older in Phase 1b Following ADHS Announcement

The Trump administration announced on January 12, 2021 the plan to release additional doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to states to expand vaccinations to individuals age 65 and older.

Moments after sending a news release about the County awaiting guidance from Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) on this matter, ADHS announced the inclusion of those individuals as priority populations within Phase 1b.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y member says Coalition provides variety of support, education to the community

I have had the blessed opportunity to work with at-risk youth in Flagstaff for over 20 years.  I first learned of the Coalition when I attended the Child Abuse Prevention Conference over 15 years ago. Since then, the Coalition has been such a wonderful resource for me.  They provide support, education, and have helped connect me to individuals and other organizations that advocate for youth.

Not only have I been able to share useful information with my family and friends, but my work circle has also benefited. 

Coconino County Sees High Demand for COVID-19 Vaccine

Approximately six hours after Coconino County moved to allowing priority populations within Phase 1b to make COVID-19 vaccination appointments at its Fort Tuthill vaccination site on Jan. 8, all 1,600 available appointments were booked.

Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) and vaccination partner organizations are working to ensure the swift administration of the available COVID-19 vaccine. The community continues to demonstrate a high level of interest in getting vaccinated; however, the available supply of COVID-19 vaccine remains limited. 

Solar co-op launches for northern Arizona residents to go solar together

The city of Flagstaff, city of Sedona, and Coconino County, the nonprofit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) announced the launch of the Northern ArizonaSolar Co-op to help area residents go solar.

“The co-op will enable northern Arizona homeowners and business owners to join the growing community of people saving money by harnessing solar power,” said Bret Fanshaw, Arizona program director for SUN. “Together, we’re building a movement to create a more sustainable electricity system that directly benefits households and small businesses in the community.”

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Neighborhood Meeting and other news

Dear Neighbor,

The purpose of this message is to inform you that the City of Flagstaff’s Open Space Program proposes to file for a Zoning Map Amendment for the McMillan Mesa Natural Area, application number: PZ-20-00063. The application intends to change the existing Public Facilities and Rural Residential Zoning to Public Open Space Zoning for passive recreation and preservation.

On November 8th, 2016, Flagstaff voters voted in favor of Proposition 413 – Campaign for a Greater Buffalo Park. This proposition restricted the use of approximately 300 acres of City-owned property on McMillan Mesa to public open space and passive recreation. The City Council approved the McMillan Mesa Natural Area major plan amendment (Resolution Number 2018-50) on Tuesday, October 16th, 2018. The next step is to amend the McMillan Mesa Natural Area’s existing zoning from Public Facilities and Rural Residential Zoning to Public Open Space.

A second and final meeting to provide interested community members the opportunity to ask questions about the proposal and provide comments will take place on January 13th.

April 19 — Southside Community Association to presented the Lived Black Experience virtual program — ‘Barber Shop Talk’

Join us for a candid unscripted ‘Barber Shop Talk’ conversation about the George Floyd murder trial, Daunte Wright’s Accidental Shooting (& the ongoing accidental gun instead of taser shooting saga) and more at 6 p.m. Monday, April 19 Livestreamed on Facebook @murdochcommunitycenter.

This conversation will focus on the thoughts of Black men on the day that the Nation hears the closing arguments in the George Floyd murder case as well as their feelings about the shooting death of yet another young black man by police that happened this past Sunday in the same city and more.

May 7 — 2021 Commencement Virtual Ceremony at CCC at 10:30 a.m.

The Coconino Community College 2021 Commencement Virtual Ceremony is scheduled to premiere at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 7, 2021 on the CCC homepage at www.coconino.edu and on YouTube at https://youtu.be/mJbkrOrkPFg .

Even with social distancing and stay at home orders, you can still celebrate!  You completed the hard work to get your degree or certificate so take some time to recognize your accomplishments. It might be a little more challenging than usual, but you can plan a graduation celebration that keeps everyone safe. 

May 25 — Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers / Arizona Rural Women’s Health Network to present Northern Arizona Region Town Hall

Join us for a virtual Town Hall on Tuesday, May 25 from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Arizona MST to provide input and suggestions!

The Arizona Rural Women’s Health Network (AZRWHN) is leading a consortium addressing SUD/OUD impacting women of childbearing age in Northern Arizona, called the Northern Arizona Consortium for Rural Opioid Services for Women’s Health (NAZCROSWH) project.

Through May 25 — Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) business plan development 9-week training

The 2021 Spring Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) business plan development 9-week Zoom-based training through May 5.

Call now (928-679-7463) or send an email to sneuman@coconino.az.gov for information and/or to enroll for our Spring 2021 BBE, Zoom-based training, 6-9pm, Tuesdays, March 30th through May 25th. The class fee is only $125 and includes LivePlan writing template portal access. We also offer a need-based 50% BBE training scholarship. Also, sessions are recorded in case participants miss a class or need additional review. Please share this information with others and let me know if you have any questions. We are here for your success.

Nov. 9 — CCC Page Center Open House

Let’s “Taco” ‘Bout Coconino Community College. FREE and open to the public, the CCC Page Center is hosting an Open House on Tue., Nov 9, 2021.

Everyone is invited to attend and welcome to join CCC at the Page Center for food, fun and community information about your college.

Nov. 14 — NAU Wind Symphony to present ‘Escenas,’ with guest conductor Luis Sánchez

Please join us on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 3 p.m. in Ardrey Memorial Auditorium for a special concert featuring renowned conductor, Luis Sánchez, and the NAU Wind Symphony. Titled “Escenas,” this concert celebrates folk music with works by Arturo Márquez and Silvestre Revueltas as well as a special performance by Flagstaff’s ownBallet Folklórico de Colores on Pablo Moncayo’s Huapango.

Nov. 17 — City of Flagstaff to hold public hearings on the carbon neutrality amendment to the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2030

The City of Flagstaff Planning and Zoning Commission will hold two public hearings to review a major amendment to the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2030. The proposed amendment will update the Plan’s climate action goals and policies to align with the Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan.

Nov. 20 — Do you have a household item in need of repair? Fix it for free at the Fix-it Clinic!

The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office is hosting a Fix-it Clinic on Saturday, November 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center, located at 245 N. Thorpe Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Volunteers will be fixing small household appliances, clothing, electronics, jewelry, bicycles and more. Appointments for fixes will be given priority, but walk-ins are welcome. Make an appointment online at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0a4daaac23a3f49-fixit. Please note that masks are required of all attendees.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y provides variety options to help families in the coming year

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

To assist families in the coming year, CCC&Y will continue to support and expand a variety of programs we have initiated in 2020 with the assistance of a variety of partners in the region and statewide. They include:

The CCC&Y Family Connection, hosted every Monday from 2:30-3:30. The bilingual Zoom meeting is is a great way to connect with others countywide. Folks can join virtually or by phone. 

The meeting is open to parents, caregivers, professionals — All individuals in our community.

A variety of resources are also available for families and local professionals who work with families on CCC&Ys Prevention Webpage.

City of Flagstaff announces Treecycling Program

The city of Flagstaff has a Treecyling program to address the issue of Christmas trees sent to the landfill. Residents with curbside trash service can place their tree curbside by 6 a.m. on Jan. 4. The city’s Solid Waste Section will pick up trees throughout the city through Jan. 8. All tinsel, lights and ornaments need to be removed before the tree is placed on the curb.

Residents living in multifamily housing can also participate by bringing their trees to one of the following locations until Jan. 17:

Old Public Works Yard: 419 N. Mogollon St.
Continental Little League Field: 5700 E. Old Walnut Canyon Rd.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Looking Forward to 2021

Happy New Year’s Eve!

I wanted to first and foremost send you well wishes for the New Year. It’s my hope that 2021 brings you and yours much happiness and good health.

I also wanted to take a moment to provide you with an update on the United Way of Northern Arizona’s annual campaign and our plans for the coming year.

For most of 2020, we focused on mitigating the economic impact of Covid-19. That work will continue because even with the vaccine rollouts, we are still facing the often devastating consequences of the pandemic in our communities.

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

Utility Assistance in Arizona — Preventing Utility Shut-Offs

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, various cities and companies suspended utility shut-offs in an effort to help struggling residents. Now, as shut-offs are beginning to resume, residents are being encouraged to seek financial assistance or work with their utility company to develop a payment plan if they are unable to pay their bills.

Contact your utility company as soon as possible if you anticipate being unable to pay your bill for any reason. Your utility company will walk you through available assistance options such as setting up a payment plan, applying to one of their programs, or applying for aid through a local agency.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Members of CCC&Y want to wish you a beautiful holiday season, but be aware of additional stresses facing family members and neighbors

In a new Public Service Announcement released this week, members of CCC&Y want to wish you a beautiful holiday season, but also be aware the additional challenges facing family members and neighbors this year.

“The holiday season is about joy, peace, giving and gratitude, but not everyone feels the magic. This year COVID fatigue can add stress already brought on by colder weather, shorter days or grief and loss.”

Take steps during the holidays to prevent the spread of COVID-19

The holidays usually are a time to spend with loved ones celebrating family traditions. As cases of COVID-19 continue at an upward trajectory in Coconino County and many locations across the country, the holidays will require extra safety precautions.

Gatherings with family and friends outside of your household can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu. Celebrating virtually or with members of the same household who are consistently taking measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 poses the lowest risk for spread. Travel also increases the chance of getting and spreading the coronavirus. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Seasons Greetings and Merry Christmas, District 2!

I want to thank you all for your continued support during this not-so-normal year. I know that 2020 threw us all a curveball, but I am grateful to each of you for doing your part in keeping our community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for your community spirit during this time.
As we move forward this holiday season, I want to wish you and your family’s a happy holiday! May each of you stay safe, create new memories, and find peace as we move into the New Year.

This will be the last newsletter of the year, however, you can continue to find information from the County and about COVID-19 on our website at https://coconino.az.gov OR by following us on social media here: www.facebook.com/CoconinoCounty.

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Winter Recreation Update and Flagstaff Snow Park

Flagstaff Snow Park’s opening day is Friday, December 18. Tickets are generally available 2-5 days in advance. Flagstaff Snow Park tickets will only be available online this season, capacity will be limited to 50% of normal, and face coverings and a temperature check are required before entering. For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://www.flagstaffsnowpark.com

Coconino County Prepares to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

The Coconino County COVID-19 Response Team is planning for the arrival of the first COVID-19 vaccine shipment, expected to be delivered in late December. The vaccine roll out in Coconino County is anticipated to begin in early January.

On December 11, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the first emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. The Moderna application for EUA for its COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be reviewed soon.  

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Connections Spotlight — CCC&Y: Igniting Collective Action

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Many in our community face staggering injustices. Mental, physical, and spiritual trauma are facts of everyday life, made worse by historical oppression and generational poverty. The systems that should provide relief are often ineffectual and overwhelmed; at their worst, they’re racist and demeaning. And in our largely rural community, issues like food inequity, education access, and healthcare provision are exacerbated by structures of power that often look past folks outside metro areas.

We have the power to reverse these injustices, and we are doing so right here in Coconino County. When we approach challenges with a holistic mindset and consider the impact of systemic, generational trauma, we can work with communities at the source of the issue, not just at the symptom. 

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — 10 Public Health Strategies to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19

The Coconino County Health and Human Services has issued a new weekly report entitled COVID-19 Coconino County Weekly Update.

The report is updated weekly on FRIDAY and includes a COVID-19 situation summary, key takeaways, demographic and geographic information, hospitalizations and testing data related to Coconino County residents.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Many in our community face staggering injustices. Mental, physical, and spiritual trauma are facts of everyday life, made worse by historical oppression and generational poverty. The systems that should provide relief are often ineffectual and overwhelmed; at their worst, they’re racist and demeaning. And in our largely rural community, issues like food inequity, education access, and healthcare provision are exacerbated by structures of power that often look past folks outside metro areas.

We have the power to reverse these injustices, and we are doing so right here in Coconino County. When we approach challenges with a holistic mindset and consider the impact of systemic, generational trauma, we can work with communities at the source of the issue, not just at the symptom.

10 Flagstaff Winter Awareness Tips: Know Before You Go

Designated as Arizona’s winter wonderland, Flagstaff accumulates an average of 100 inches of snow annually to partake in a multitude of winter activities. Please stay, play, social distance, and mask while visiting and adhere to required CDC healthcare travel guidelines, business recommendations and varied hours.  

Travel safely and know before you go to Flagstaff with these top ten winter awareness tips:  

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

United Way of Northern Arizona — The Most Important Thing She’s Ever Done

Dolly Parton, simply put, is a legend. An icon. A cultural touchstone. She’s had phenomenal commercial and critical success. She’s earned an “EGOT,” winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony. Her career spans a half century and she’s still going strong. Not bad for a kid born in a one-room cabin in the mountains of east Tennessee.

But before he passed away, her father told her that probably the most important thing she’s ever done was to start her “Imagination Library.”

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Connections Spotlight — Express Yourself!

This pandemic is challenging for all of us. CCC&Y has a weekly virtual meeting for parents and caregivers to connect and share resources. We are also launching “Creativity Calling,” specifically for youth! This monthly virtual opportunity will provide youth a chance to share their thoughts and feelings through the arts. Any youth interested in sharing their music, visual art, poetry, dance, or theater can text Hunter RedDay at 928.221.3688 to register. Each month four youth will have a 10-minute spotlight. Special thank you to our partner Stronger As One for providing a gift card to a local business. We will enter each month’s performers in a raffle for the gift card!

United Way of Northern Arizona — Raising A Generation of Readers

Nationally, only 3 in 10 students entering the 4th grade are proficient readers.(1) That’s disheartening enough, but here’s the really scary statistic: children who aren’t reading proficiently by the 4th grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school.(2)

Instilling a love of reading is the key to success for our children. It’s the foundation upon which their education is built.

That’s why United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) is proud to partner with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library (DPIL) to make sure children in Coconino, Navajo and Apache counties discover the world of books in those critical years before they enter school.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Connections Spotlight — Interdependence

Many of us were taught or developed a belief that depending on others is a weakness. I believe, as do many others, that interdependence is a strength!

I invite you to take a moment for yourself to breathe a few deep breaths. Then ask yourself, how am I feeling? What do I need? Who can help?

Have you ever helped someone without expecting anything in return? How did it feel? Many of us feel good when we are helping others. Why, then, do we often not allow others the opportunity to feel that goodness by helping us?

Flagstaff returns to Phase 2 of COVID-19 Reentry Plan

The city of Flagstaff will return to Stage 2 of its COVID-19 Reentry Plan on Nov. 30. This move is due to the upward trajectory in the number of new cases, hospitalizations and COVID related deaths in Flagstaff over four weeks or more.

Under Phase 2, the city will re-close the following city facilities and amenities:

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler — COVID cases are increasing dramatically in our communities

Greetings!

I am so thankful to serve Coconino County District 5 for another 4 years. My work for all citizens has been the greatest honor and joy in my life. Thank you to all District 5 citizens for re-electing me to the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. I am so excited for new opportunities and possibilities of the next 4 years. In this season of change and transition, I ask you to take care of your mental and physical well-being. Please stay vigilant and safe this holiday season.

Lena

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Coconino County Returns to more Restrictive Phase I Operations as COVID-19 Cases Rise

On June 5, 2020, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors approved a COVID-19 Re-Entry Plan for County Operations. The plan provides guidance to protect customer and employee health and safety.

Coconino County COVID-19 case numbers have followed an upward trajectory over the past several weeks. Based on this increase, and in alignment with the County’s Re-Entry Plan, effective Monday, November 23 Coconino County will return to more restrictive Phase I operations, summarized below.