FLAGSTAFF — The Southwest Fair Housing Council, the City of Flagstaff and the Northern Arizona Council of Governments will present a free “Fair Housing Seminar” from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, April 23 at the Flagstaff City Hall, 211 W.…
Category: Family
Market on the Move canceled for April 15
From AmigosNAZ staff reports FLAGSTAFF — Organizers report that the Market on the Move event scheduled for Wednesday, April 15 has been canceled. The event was canceled because the group was not able to secure enough produce. The May event are…
NAU’s Immigration Awareness Series to present ‘Aquí y Allá’ on March 31
FLAGSTAFF — NAU’s Immigration Awareness Series will present “Aquí y Allá,” a film written and directed by Antonio Méndez Esparza, at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 31 at Liberal Arts 120. The feature film follows Pedro de los Santos Juarez, a Mexican…
Coconino County Public Health Services District expands vital records services to include birth certificates mail application requests
By Jeff Lee / Coconino County Public Health Services District Program Manager II The Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) has expanded its Vital Records Services to include mail application requests for birth certificates. Introduced in 2006, the CCPHSD…
CHAC to present inaugural ‘César E. Chávez Community Recognition Breakfast’ on March 27
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) will present its inaugural “César E. Chávez Community Recognition Breakfast” from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Friday, March 27 at Tacos Los Altos Westside, 2500 S. Woodlands Village Blvd., Flagstaff. The event will honor Hispanic…
Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños to hold official grand opening on March 28
FLAGSTAFF — The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association of Flagstaff Inc.’s Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños will hold its official grand opening from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 29 at 2532 E. 7th Ave., at the Southwest corner of the Cal-Ranch…
Summer job hunting season is almost here
From AmigosNAZ staff reports With March upon us it’s time to start thinking about the St. Patrick Day (March 17), the beginning of spring (March 20) and … the start in earnest of the search by youth for summer jobs.…
Guest commentary: Babies and toddlers need more reading time
A recent national study shows there’s good news and challenges when it comes to families reading daily with infants, toddlers and preschoolers. The good news is parents recognize that reading with young children is important in developing language and literacy skills. The challenge…
Sunnyside neighborhood in Flagstaff celebrates ‘Festival of Dreams’
FLAGSTAFF —The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association of Flagstaff Inc.’s Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños will present the “Festival of Dreams” from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 and from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 22 at…
Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños to open on Feb. 20
Hover over image above to see a caption of the photo AmigosNAZ staff report FLAGSTAFF —The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association of Flagstaff Inc. will hold its monthly Market of Dreams / Mercado de los Sueños marketplace from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20…
Bilingual report: CHAC to present College & Career Resource Fair on March 7
AmigosNAZ staff report FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council will present its inaugural “College & Career Resource Fair” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 7 at Killip Elementary School, 2300 E. 6th Ave., Flagstaff. The fair is…
New location for Market On the Move to be announced for March
FLAGSTAFF — The Market On The Move event scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 18 has been cancelled, organizers reported in a media release. A new location for March is scheduled to be announced soon. Previous Market On the Move events have…
NAU’s Immigration Awareness Series to present talk by Allegra Love on ‘Central American Refugees at Our Border…’ on Feb. 17
FLAGSTAFF —NAU’s Immigration Awareness Series to present talk by Allegra Love on “Central American Refugees at Our Border: The Crisis of Family Detention in the United States” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17 at the Martin-Springer Institute located on the 3rd floor…
Guest commentary: Poor oral health takes a bite out of learning
When we think about getting kids ready for kindergarten, we talk about brain development and early literacy, but did you know that early oral health impacts early learning too? First Things First reminds communities that February is National Children’s Dental…
Nominations sought for the 2015 Caring for Children Award
Deadline is Feb. 13 From AmigosNAZ staff reports Outstanding individuals who work directly to make Coconino County a better place for the region’s youngest residents will be recognized at the annual Child Abuse Prevention Luncheon Fundraiser on March 26 in…
Free movie screening of ‘Underwater Dreams’ to be held at Coconino High School on March 5
From AmigosNAZ staff reports FLAGSTAFF — The free movie screening of “Underwater Dreams” will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 5 at the Coconino High School Main Auditorium, 2801 Izabel St., Flagstaff. Written and directed by Mary Mazzio, and narrated…
Series of free income tax preparation sessions scheduled for Northern Arizona
By Frank X. Moraga /AmigosNAZ A series of free income tax preparation programs are scheduled for Northern Arizona through April. The sessions are presented by the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which generally offers free tax help to people who…
Commentary: Latino youth doing better in education, but are we?
By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ The news can be disconcerting for many of us who have been involved in one way or another in encouraging Latinos, and all young people, to succeed in education and life — high dropout rates in…
Health: Protect yourself, others from the flu
By Michelle McKay, RN, BSN / Coconino County Public Health Services District Immunization Program Manager Now that winter break has passed and students and parents are settling back into the normal routine, the Coconino County Public Health Services District is reminding the…
Finance / Finanzas: Medicare in Three Parts — Part A
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona Medicare coverage consists of hospital insurance (Part A), medical insurance (Part B) and prescription drug insurance (Part D). This article will address Part A coverage, including hospital care, skilled nursing facility care,…
Events, programs for first-generation college-bound students presented at NAU
FLAGSTAFF — A documentary, panel and workshops geared toward high school students interested in learning more about college and Northern Arizona University was held Jan. 24, the university reported this week in a media release. At NAU, programs are in place…
Commentary: Educating the community
By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ For as long as I can remember, I have always been involved in educational outreach efforts as I progressed through my career in journalism. As a young reporter I took part in panel presentations…
Bilingual commentary: Holiday Blessings Food Drive was a success!!
By Egle Rucci / Village Land Shoppe Inc. Our goal of feeding 10 Flagstaff Families has become a reality thanks to our incredible neighbors and neighborhood businesses! What a wonderful and unexpected treat this has been; to meet so many wonderful people with…
Finance / Finanzas: Medicare — Introduction
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona This article offers an introduction to Medicare and is the first in a series of articles on this subject. What is Medicare: Medicare is a federal health insurance program for persons who are…
Guest commentary: Share holiday blessings with a Flagstaff family in need
By Egle Rucci / Village Land Shoppe Inc. My name is Egle Rucci, Realtor ® at Village Land Shoppe Inc, and together with Teresa Bolen at Prime Source Lending, we are pledging to sponsor families in need in our community this year…
Bilingual report: Market on the Move returns to Flagstaff on Dec. 17
AmigosNAZ staff report FLAGSTAFF — Market on the Move, a farmer’s market-style program where community members can get up to 60 pounds of fresh produce for a $15 donation, will return to Flagstaff on Wednesday, Dec. 17, Chris Nez, Health Promotion…
Bilingual commentary: Helping young kids beat the holiday blues
December is crowded with activity and excitement, which can all be fun for young children, but may also have some unintended consequences: behavior changes. Toddlers and preschoolers can experience a myriad of emotions, including: anticipation of special activities and events;…
Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe to be celebrated with procession, luminaries, Mariachi Mass, community potluck on Dec. 11 & 12
FLAGSTAFF — The Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe to be celebrated with a procession, luminaries, a Mariachi Mass and community potluck on Dec. 11 & 12 in Flagstaff. The Guadalupanas, with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and San Francisco de Assis…
Bilingual report: Arizona Dreamers in Action to hold forum on President Obama’s executive action on immigration on Dec. 13
FLAGSTAFF — Arizona Dreamers in Action will hold a forum on President Obama’s executive action on immigration from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at Coconino High School, 2801 Isabel St., Flagstaff. “We invite the community to attend, inform and…
December cover story: Caregivers, children get an early start in education
Variety of programs available in Northern Arizona to help youth succeed in school, life By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ At first glance it seemed a bit out of place — a group of caregivers, parents and grandparents gaining parenting…
Guest commentary: Babysitter or an educator?
A tour of the Kith and Kin Project in Flagstaff By Cynthia Pardo / First Things First “Hay muchas cosas que devemos a aprender, como, escuchar a nuestros hijos, involucrarlos en todo para que aprendan a desenvolverse major,” said Ms.…
Health: Food preparation safety key to successful holiday meals
By the Coconino County Public Health Services District As the holidays approach and families across the county make plans for gatherings, the Coconino County Public Health Services District (CCPHSD) is stressing the importance of making food safety part of the…
Finance / Finanzas: 7 tips for keeping holiday budgets (and your holiday spirit) intact
By Metro Editorial Services (MS) “No one is so poor that he can’t give a smile, nor so rich that he doesn’t need it.” — Anonymous Holidays are exciting — family visits and special once-a-year meals, celebrating traditions together with…
Food / Cocina: Host a merry, memorable holiday party
Editor’s note: A timely article first published in the December 2013 edition of AmigosNAZ. By Metro Editorial Services (MS) The holidays are the most festive time of the year, and no holiday season is complete without a party or two…
Guest commentary: Like all skills, gratitude is best learned young
As Thanksgiving approaches, it is the perfect time to teach young children a very important life lesson: gratitude. Barbara Lewis, author of What Do You Stand For? For Kids, teaches us children as young as 2 are aware that other…
‘Paint & Wine in the Pines’ beginning art class to be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church & Cultural Center on Dec. 5
CLICK HERE TO RSVP, MAKE PAYMENT FOR DEC. 5, 2014 ART CLASS FLAGSTAFF — The next ‘Paint & Wine in the Pines’ beginning art class @ Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church & Cultural Center will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday,…
November cover story: Season of giving begins in Northern Arizona
While donations, volunteers are welcomed during the holidays, officials say need must be met throughout the entire year By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ Right after Halloween thoughts start turning toward Thanksgiving, Christmas and other holidays. You can’t escape it…
Snowdrift Art Space in Winslow celebrates Día de los Muertos
From AmigosNAZ staff reports While a strong breeze prevented the traditional procession and burning of the offerings to the dearly departed, it was not enough to dampen the spirits at the Snowdrift Art Space which presented its annual Día de…
Region welcomes 11th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona
From AmigosNAZ staff reports It was a weekend filled with music, entertainment, and, most importantly, reverence for those who have gone before us as Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the Museum of Northern Arizona partnered for the 11th annual Celebraciones de…
Finances / Finanzas: Social Security: Beneficiaries (breadwinner and dependents)
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona In this article I will present a review of Social Security beneficiaries (the breadwinner and dependents) — who is eligible for what benefit, at what age, and the benefit amount.…
Día de los Muertos events continue in Winslow through Nov. 2
Other events scheduled from Oct. 30 through Nov. 2 WINSLOW — Snowdrift Art Space, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the Winslow Arts Trust and the Winslow Chamber of Commerce will present a Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration from 1 to 9 p.m. Saturday,…
Día de los Muertos celebration at Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village continues in Sedona through Nov. 2
SEDONA — The third annual Marigold Mural Project for Día de los Muertos will be held from Oct. 28 through Nov. 1 at Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, 336 State Route 179, Sedona. The public mural at Calle Independencia allows visitors…
Guest commentary: At Halloween, protect kids’ teeth. Prevent school absences
Did you know that tooth decay is among the most common health issues affecting young children, and that dental disease is one of the leading causes of school absence? The Arizona Department of Health Services estimates that almost half of…
Experienced heart problem that you needed help for? We want to hear your story
“Have you experienced a heart problem that you needed help for? We want to hear your story! “Please contact Jeronimo Vasquez at (928) 214-3904 if you are interested. Gracias”
Guest commentary: Full Circle Trade & Thrift is doing wonderful work in our community
By Roxana Cardiel De Niz / NAIC Interim Organizer In October, Full Circle Trade & Thrift’s proceeds will help support Flagstaff’s immigrant families. Northern Arizona Interfaith Council is part of a coalition of nonprofit organizations (Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation, the Northern Arizona…
11th Annual Celebraciones de la Gente to be presented at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct 25-26. Members reception to be held Oct. 24
Museum member’s reception on Oct. 24 FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and the Museum of Northern Arizona will present the 11th annual Celebracíones de la Gente on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25 and 26 at the museum. Scheduled entertainment includes Mariachi Sol…
Mercado de Sueños / Dream Market to be held on Oct. 17 in Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF — The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association and NAU will present the Mercado de los Sueños / Dream Marketplace from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17 at 2532 E. Seventh, near the corner of Fourth and 7th streets. Mercado de los…
October cover story / Portada: Día de los Muertos events come alive in region
Celebraciones de la Gente in Flagstaff, Día de los Muertos events in Sedona, Winslow part of growing movement By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ Soon the aroma of marigolds and copal incense will waft through the air, beckoning spirits to…
Finances / Finanzas: Social Security — Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona Another important benefit offered by Social Security is Supplemental Security Income, commonly known as “SSI”. SSI, though administered by the Social Security Administration, is not funded by Social Security taxes…
Mercado de Sueños / Dream Market to be held on Sept. 19 in Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF — The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association and NAU will present the Mercado de los Sueños / Dream Marketplace from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 at 2532 E. Seventh, near the corner of Fourth and 7th streets. Mercado de los…
11th annual Fiesta de Independencia to be held Sept. 21 in Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF — The Sunnyside Neighborhood Association will present its 11th annual Fiesta de Independencia from noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 at the Mercado de los Sueños / Dream Marketplace, 2532 E. Seventh, near the corner of Fourth and Seventh…
September cover story / Portada: Hispanic Heritage Month coming fast
Events include salsa festival, Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces First Friday Art Walk, and Hispanic independence celebrations in Sedona, Flagstaff By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ It’s last-minute planning time for upcoming Hispanic Heritage Month events in Northern Arizona. While the month is officially celebrated…
Commentary / Comentario: The season of nutritional health
By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ While this is the season for cultural events, it is also the time to start thinking about proper nutrition as students return to school and we prepare for the dreaded sweet and fat-laden holiday season. The…
Local / Locales
The Hispanic / Latino population of Northern Arizona University grew by 10 percent during the fall of 2014 compared to a year ago, university officials reported in a media release. According to unofficial enrollment figures released during the last week of…
Finances / Finanzas: Social Security: Survivors benefits
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona Many people might not know that Social Security offers Survivors Benefits. These benefits, which function as a kind of life insurance, can provide family income after the breadwinner dies as…
Grand Canyon Salsa Festival 2014 to be held through Sept. 7
FLAGSTAFF — The Grand Canyon Salsa Festival 2014, featuring workshops and dance competitions, will be held Sept. 4-7 in Flagstaff. The event seeks to facilitate education, awareness, and mutual sharing and bring together dance talents from the local, national and…
Vive Selena performance to be held Aug. 31 at Coconino County Fair
FLAGSTAFF — Vive Selena will perform at 7:30 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 31 at the Coconino County Fair. The tribute to the music of Selena Quintanilla will feature such hits as Baila Esta Cumbia, Amor Prohibido, Techno Cumbia, Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,…
August cover story / Portada: Another challenging year for education
Officials seek to balance state budget cuts with creative options to improve education to meet state college, career and life-readiness standards By Frank X. Moraga / AmigosNAZ On what promised to be another toasty summer day in Flagstaff, children and…
Local / Locales
Northern Arizona University has been awarded a three-year research grant to promote academic success among young Spanish-speaking English learners, university officials reported in a media release. The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Educational Sciences, will…
Finances / Finanzas: Social Security: Retirement benefits – Part 2
By David Parra / Associate state director — AARP Arizona In this article I will continue our conversation regarding retirement benefits, describing retiring at full retirement age and delaying retirement to a later age. We have stated that full retirement age ranges…