Category: Finance

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

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

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

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

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

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

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

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

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

United Way of Northern Arizona — Looking Back & Planning Ahead

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2023 • Comments Off

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

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

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

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

City of Flagstaff awarded $9.6M grant for Butler Avenue Complete Streets Conversion

by AmigosNAZ.com • December 20, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF —The City of Flagstaff has been awarded $9.6M from the United States Department of Transportation to implement the Butler Avenue Complete Streets Conversion. The City will convert 0.9 miles of arterial road in the urban center of Flagstaff to a Complete Street. The project includes installing bike lanes that are grade-separated from motor vehicle traffic; three protected intersections; a new pedestrian crossing; upgrades to an existing pedestrian crossing; and pedestrian comfort features, such as landscape buffers, that also result in reducing speeds through the historic Southside Neighborhood in the core of Flagstaff.

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said “Safe streets for all is our goal and this grant will put our pedestrian and bike designs for Butler Avenue into action. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Flagstaff has received $58M to date and residents and visitors alike will get to enjoy transportation and infrastructure projects designed to make moving around town on foot, bike, bus, and car easier and more convenient. Thanks to Arizona’s Senators Kelly and Sinema for their part in making this happen.”

Bilingual report — 2024 City of Flagstaff’s Minimum Wage

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2023 • Comments Off

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

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

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

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

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

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

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

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

by Community Contributor • December 18, 2023 • Comments Off

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

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

United Way of Northern Arizona — Helping to Solve the Childcare Crunch

by Community Contributor • December 8, 2023 • Comments Off

In order to step up for our youth, we need to make improving access to childcare a top priority.

According to a report released just this week, the lack of adequate childcare in Arizona is costing the state $4.7 billion in lost earnings, productivity, and revenue each year.

The analysis, conducted by ReadyNation with major funding by the Helios Education Foundation, shows that not having accessible, affordable, and high-quality childcare is adversely impacting parents, businesses, and taxpayers.

At this charitable end of the year, can you make a donation to Theatrikos?

by Community Contributor • December 7, 2023 • Comments Off

Theatrikos’ basic membership is $50. You can donate more or less or anything that is right for you. Thank you!

The NAU Review — Measuring biodiversity, Humans of NAU with a former track athlete and giving back this Giving Tuesday

by Community Contributor • November 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Measuring biodiversity across the U.S.—with space lasers
Diverse ecosystems support the web of life and in the process, provide food, water, medicine and materials for humanity. But the butterfly effect tells us all things are connected. So, when biodiversity loss threatens the foundation upon which we live, what does that mean for the future of Earth and humanity? NAU research professor Chris Hakkenberg is taking a necessary step to finding a solution to biodiversity loss: mapping and measuring biodiversity across the U.S. using NASA’s space-borne lidar.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Support F3 Today on Giving Tuesday!

by Community Contributor • November 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Join the Giving Tuesday global movement and support your local nonprofits!

Your end-of-year donation will go directly toward supporting F3’s on-going work as we continue to be fully integrated into the decision-making processes of our community, educating and advocating for a livable, sustainable, affordable, and climate resilient Flagstaff.

F3 attends all City Council meetings and we speak directly to Council about important policy and on-the-ground decisions that relate to our Focus Areas.* We seek accountability and transparency from our local local leaders through meeting with city staff and individual council members and we participate in local and regional planning efforts including the development of the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045, which will be a major focus of our work in 2024.

Flagstaff STEM City — Invest in the Future Today

by Community Contributor • November 28, 2023 • Comments Off

STEM is more important to our community – and our world – than ever before. Hardly a day goes by when STEM is not in the headlines: artificial intelligence, climate change, space exploration, breakthroughs in medicine, and much more.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there are nearly 10 million workers in STEM occupations and this total is projected to grow by almost 11% by 2031, more than two times faster than the total for all other occupations.

Support Sedona Arts Center on Giving Tuesday

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

(Nov. 28) is #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. You don’t have to wait until tomorrow! Make a donation today to support Sedona Arts Center…

Museum of Northern Arizona — Give the Gift of Learning & Discovery

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

Your support is critical to growing and sustaining MNA’s work. In 2023, we:

Opened three new exhibitions;
Welcomed nearly 2,000 students on school visits;
Shared the MNA collections with hundreds of members of the public;
Provided over 200 researchers with in-depth access to collections;
Hosted numerous educational events that connect visitors with the art, science, and culture of the Colorado Plateau through authentic experiences;
And so much more!

United Way of Northern Arizona — Supporting Youth (and Families) on Giving Tuesday

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

On Giving Tuesday, we come together to support the causes that matter most to us.

This year, I’m asking you to join us and create more opportunities for our communities in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache County to step up for our youth by supporting not only our children, but those who take care of them as well.

An underlying aspect of many of the programs we manage or fund is about being a partner to the parents and guardians who are raising the next generation.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Your support (on Giving Tuesday) nurtures a future scientist!

by Community Contributor • November 27, 2023 • Comments Off

This year marks our 35th anniversary, and we’re gearing up for an even better Science in the Park. With Giving Tuesday right around the corner, will you make a contribution towards Science in the Park?

Families get to experience 50 unique science demonstrations—physics, chemistry, and more! What’s more, youth-focused vendors participate at no cost, so every child can join in.

Imagine the impact: your support nurturing a future scientist or STEM professional. Your donation creates ripples of inspiration that last a lifetime.

Ready to be part of something amazing? With your help, we’ll reach our $5,500 goal. The Festival Board has generously offered a one-to-one match up to $1,000! Make your gift online by December 2 and it will be doubled! Or, send us a check to: 2700 S. Woodlands Village Blvd. Set 300 – 284, Flagstaff Arizona 86001!

United Way of Northern Arizona — Wishing You a Happy Thanksgiving

by Community Contributor • November 22, 2023 • Comments Off

We couldn’t do it without you.

We are United in Purpose 365 days a year, and together we are stepping up for youth and our community in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties. We are promoting early childhood education, positive youth development and the safety and security of our friends and neighbors in our local communities.

This Thanksgiving we are more grateful than ever for your friendship, partnership and support.

Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday,

Liz, Christine & Elaine

United Way of Northern Arizona — Healthy Bodies, Healthy Futures

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

The need for programs that encourage physical health have never been more essential for our region’s youth than now.

According to the United Health Foundation, only 16.8% of Arizona children between the ages of 6 and 17 are physically active for an hour a day. The latest report from the Annie E. Casey Foundation indicates that 31% of children 10 to 17 in the state are overweight or obese.

Part of stepping up for our youth includes ensuring our kids make healthy choices – from the foods they eat to putting down their devices for a while and getting active.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — The Advantages of a Thriving Economy

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2023 • Comments Off

As Ioanna Morfessis, President & CEO of IO, Inc., recently put it: “Economies don’t remain static; there is no stasis. They either grow and progress or they regress.”

Morfessis and Danny Court of Elliott Pollack & Co. co-authored the recently released Strategic Plan created on behalf of ECoNA to outline a roadmap for the region’s economic future.

Their reporting indicates that Northern Arizona faces a major decision: whether the region’s economy will continue to remain competitive or if anti-growth sentiment will lead to stagnation and possible economic erosion.

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez September-October Newsletter

by Community Contributor • November 10, 2023 • Comments Off

Editor’s Note — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces and www.AmigosNAZ.com wishes to thank District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vazquez and the Coconino County Board of Supervisors for their support of the 20th annual Celebraciones de la Gente, held Oct. 21, 22 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Attending the closing ceremony, above, was Supervisor Jeronimo Vazquez and family. Your continued support was very much appreciated.The 2023 Celebraciones de la Gente was also supported in part by the Arizona Commission on the Arts which receives support from the State of Arizona and the National Endowment for the Arts, the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and APS. Celebraciones presented in partnership with the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Also — Message from Jeronimo
Board Opens Application Portal to Fill District 3 Supervisor Vacancy when Supervisor Matt Ryan Retires
District 2 Highlights
Coconino County Services and Programs
Community Events & Resources
And more!

Flagstaff Family Food Center seeking volunteers for ‘Stuff the Bus!’ on Nov. 11-12

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2023 • Comments Off

We are looking to fill about 45 more volunteer positions for our Stuff The Bus food drive on Saturday and Sunday, November 11th and 12th. If you are interested, click this link to sign up today!

https://hotfood.volunteerhub.com/vv2/…

The shifts we have available are:

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y partners urged to start planning for GivingTuesday (Nov. 28)

by Community Contributor • November 8, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — CCC&Y partners have an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals and programs throughout Northern Arizona by taking part in the annual GivingTuesday movement on Nov. 28, 2023.

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to support your effort by providing links to your organization and donation pages in our upcoming weekly e-newsletters.

We believe GivingTuesday is a perfect fit for our mission: “We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.”

Individuals and for-profit organizations throughout Northern Arizona are looking for an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of families in the region and as stated by the founders of GivingTuesday: “Generosity is uplifting, generative, equalizing, and connecting.”

So if you are a member partner of CCC&Y, please send your information, donation links, stories and photos to Frank X. Moraga, outreach coordinator, at frank@coconinokids.org

We would love to include you in our growing list of GivingTuesday participants this year.

United Way of Northern Arizona Working WITH Youth FOR Youth in NE Arizona

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Students from Holbrook High School and Joseph City High School are helping our communities better understand the needs of youth in Navajo County.

The two students are participating in an internship that was created through a partnership between United Way of Northern Arizona, the Center for the Future of Arizona, and the Work-Based Learning Alliance.

The six-week program is asking the students to conduct an analysis of current issues facing youth in northeast Arizona.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s VOTER GUIDE to Flagstaff Propositions: November 2023 Special Election

by Community Contributor • October 5, 2023 • Comments Off

Flagstaff’s Special Election is November 7, 2023. This is a Ballot-by-Mail Election and there will be no polling places on Election Day. All registered voters in the City of Flagstaff will automatically receive a ballot in the mail approximately three weeks prior to election day. You are able to check your voting status here.

F3 has thoroughly reviewed the 20 propositions that will be on the ballot and we have created a Voter Guide to this year’s election. The summary of the Voter Guide is available in graphic form below. A description of the propositions, accompanied by F3’s reasoning for our voting recommendations, are provided on our website.

Nineteen of the propositions on the ballot are proposed amendments to the City of Flagstaff Charter. The City Charter is the basic law of a city as established by a majority of voters. The Charter defines the powers and functions of the city and serves as the foundation of government for the city.

Guest contribution — Intelligent — Financial Aid Guide available for Hispanic and Latino Students

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2023 • Comments Off

By Kristen Scatton, Reviewed by Dana Marvin Interviews with Dana Marvin Intelligent

No matter who you are, determining how to finance a college education is a complex decision involving many factors. For Hispanic and Latino students, specific considerations may include their citizenship and their parents’ citizenship statuses, their parents’ employment, and whether they’re the first in their family to attend college.

This guide is designed to help Hispanic and Latino students navigate the financial aid process, with a general overview of different types of financial aid, how to apply for federal student loans, and advice from college admissions counselor Dana Marvin.

It also includes information specific to Hispanic and Latino students, including grants and scholarships for different populations within these demographics, including Hispanic/Latina women, children of migrant workers, and first-generation college students.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up Sept. 25-29, 2023

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2023 • Comments Off

Superintendent’s Corner: UPDATE-Potential Lapse in Appropriations

The federal government, including the National Park Service, is currently funded through midnight September 30. We remain hopeful that Congress and the President can agree on a budget or continuing resolution that would keep the government open.

Based on my time in Washington, I know that a lot of people in the Administration and in Congress are working to fund the government. However, if we are not funded by Sunday and there is a resulting lapse of appropriations, we will begin to significantly reduce operations of the federal government. We have experience in implementing an orderly shutdown, most recently in 2018-19.

If you are a resident of Grand Canyon, you will be able to stay in your assigned housing in the event of a lapse. Family and friends will be able to visit you, and you will be able to come and go from the park as you normally would. For those of you concerned about your personal finances if you do not get paid during a shutdown, Congress passed a law in 2019 requiring backpay for federal employees after a shutdown. You will get paid.

Coconino County Treasurer Statement on 2023 Tax Season

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Property tax notices will be mailed out the week of September 24, 2023. Property owners may view their property tax information online at the County Treasurer’s website, www.coconino.az.gov/treasurer.

In August of this year, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) approved and adopted the 2023 property tax rate schedule for all taxing jurisdictions within the County.

CCC to receive up to $4 million to attract male high school students to higher education

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Community College has received the largest donation in the college’s history to attract male high school students to higher education.

A private donor has offered the college $1 million per year for four years to achieve the goal.

“This transformational gift will allow us to blaze a new path forward and open the doors of higher education for students who may not have been considering going to college,” said Dr. Eric Heiser, President of CCC. “With the resources that this gift will provide, we will be able to focus specifically on those male students who have not re-engaged with community college since the onset of the pandemic.”

City of Flagstaff announces minimum wage for 2024

by Community Contributor • September 13, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase to $17.40 and $15.90 for tipped workers beginning on Jan. 1, 2024.

In 2016 the voters of Flagstaff wrote and passed The Minimum Wage Act (“the Act”) as a citizens’ initiative (Proposition 414). The Act, which is codified in Title 15 of the Flagstaff City Code, prescribes that beginning in 2023, the Flagstaff minimum wage shall be increased annually by the increase in the cost of living. Pursuant to the Act, “[t]he increase in the cost of living shall be measured by the percentage increase as of August of the immediately preceding year over the level as of August of the previous year of the consumer price index (all urban consumers, U.S. city average for all items)” (15-01-001-0003(B)). The increase shall be rounded to the nearest $0.05.

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez July — August Newsletter

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2023 • Comments Off

Message from Jeronimo
Visit the Coconino County Fair
District 2 Highlights
Preparation, Prevention, and Information
Service Positions & Job Listings
Services and Programs
And more!

Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra — benefit auction now open through Saturday

by AmigosNAZ.com • August 29, 2023 • Comments Off

View items and register to bid FSO’s benefit auction is loaded with wonderful gifts, art, experiences, and travel opportunities. You do not have to attend Sippin’ with the Symphony, FSO’s special performance and wine tasting fundraiser, to bid on auction…

Coconino County Board of Supervisors Issues Emergency Resolution Regarding Tusayan Flooding

by Community Contributor • August 25, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Chairman Jeronimo Vasquez has authorized an official emergency resolution regarding the flooding in the community of Tusayan that occurred on Tuesday of this week.

In adopting this resolution, the Board is authorizing County Emergency Management and the Sheriff’s Office to issue further shelter in place or evacuation orders should another significant rainfall event affect this community. It also assists with requests for State and Federal assistance to aid in the clean up and repairs to public infrastructure.

Tuesday’s storm produced an estimated three inches of rainfall in less than one hour, concentrated over a wash east of Tusayan. The wash was soon overwhelmed, flooding the Grand Canyon gateway community with up to three feet of water by 5 p.m. that evening. Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Emergency Management, and Flood Control District staff arrived soon after to assess the situation and assist the Town of Tusayan in setting up a local incident command center. A temporary order to boil tap water for drinking has been lifted after testing confirmed no bacterial contamination present.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-Up Week of August 21, 2023

by Community Contributor • August 24, 2023 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, August 22, emergency personnel from Coconino County Sheriff’s Office, Tusayan Fire Department, and Grand Canyon National Park responded to the town of Tusayan for a report of flooding due to heavy rainfall in the area.

Water levels up to three feet deep prompted officials to close a section of Highway 64 for safety. Over 100 residents and visitors in Tusayan were relocated, and about 70 students from the Grand Canyon Unified School District sheltered in place until it was safe for them to return home. No injuries were reported and crews will continue working to clean up the aftermath.

Tourism to Grand Canyon National Park contributed $759 million to local economy in 2022

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2023 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON — A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 4.7 million visitors to Grand Canyon National Park in 2022 spent an estimated $759 million in gateway regions near the park. This spending supported a total of 9,990 jobs, $346 million in labor income, $576 million in value added, and $1.0 billion in economic output in local gateway economies surrounding Grand Canyon National Park.

“Grand Canyon National Park continues to be an economic linchpin for local communities and the region surrounding the park,” said Superintendent Ed Keable. “We continue to heavily rely on the support of our neighbors and are proud to be able to help sustain local communities for many years to come.”

Board of Supervisors Adopts Final Tax Rate Schedule for Fiscal Year 2024

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) unanimously approved and adopted the tax rate schedule for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 24) and Tax Year 2023 for all special taxing jurisdictions for which Coconino County has authority to collect taxes.

Arizona Revised Statues mandate that an ordinance levying taxes for FY 24 be adopted no later than the third Monday in August 2023, and with this administrative action the Board has concluded the 2023-24 budget process.

Special taxing jurisdictions, often referred to as special districts, are created to fill a need and to enable the provision of services in an area that might otherwise be limited from receiving those services for various reasons, including size, location, financial limitations or unavailability of other government support. The formation of a special taxing district creates a funding stream to pay for the desired or necessary services by placing the responsibility on those who benefit from that service.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Last Chance to RSVP for Advisory Council Meeting with Mexico & Canada Consuls

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2023 • Comments Off

Time is running out to RSVP for next week’s meeting of the ECoNA Advisory Council, which will feature conversation with the Consul General of Mexico in Phoenix, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, former Honorary Consul of Canada for Arizona and the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Business Community, Please RSVP today for Aug. 16 meeting with Mexico & Canada Consuls

by Community Contributor • August 4, 2023 • Comments Off

You are cordially invited to the next meeting of the ECoNA Advisory Council, where our featured speakers will be the Consul General of Mexico in Phoenix, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, former Honorary Consul of Canada for Arizona and the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council.
We are extending this invitation to the entire business community because of the importance of these two countries to our state and regional economy.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Board Spotlight: Gabriella “Gabe” Smith

by Community Contributor • August 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Nonprofits, like most organizations, are known by the company they keep. When their leaders are passionate about the community, it is a powerful force for positive change.

At United Way of Northern Arizona, we are fortunate to have a highly talented and dedicated volunteer Board of Directors. Periodically, we’ll share their stories with you because their commitment to Living United is the foundation of the work we do.

We’re very pleased to begin this series with a profile of Gabriella “Gabe” Smith of Kinney Construction Services, Inc. We hope you enjoy it!

Lowe’s Foundation grants CCC $750,000 for construction programs

by Community Contributor • July 28, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Community College received a $750,000 grant from the Lowe’s Foundation to help grow the college’s Construction Technology Management programs.

CCC was one of 10 colleges nationwide chosen as recipients of the Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grants program. The program is a five-year, $50 million commitment by Lowe’s to help prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers. This year’s recipients were awarded nearly $8 million in grants to help bolster skilled trades training infrastructure.

“We’re incredibly honored to have been selected as one the first-ever Gable Grants Recipients from the Lowe’s Foundation,” said CCC President Dr. Eric Heiser. “This gift will allow us to build our already growing Construction Management program and allow us to add even more students to the high-demand, high-wage field within Flagstaff and Coconino County.”

United Way of Northern Arizona — ‘We’ve Learned A Lot in the First Attempt’

by Community Contributor • July 27, 2023 • Comments Off

If I asked you to guess who was the driving force behind the founding of what would become the United Way of Northern Arizona more than a half century ago, what would you say?

City government? School officials? Local churches? Nonprofit organizations?

Actually, it was the business community.

Much has changed at UWNA since local businesses spearheaded the founding of the “United Fund” in 1967 (story below).

From the desk of:
Liz Archuleta
President & CEO

One thing has remained true throughout the past 56 years is how both the business community and UWNA benefit from this powerful connection.

I hope you enjoy the articles below about the vital role local businesses played in UWNA’s past and present, as well as the many ways hosting a workplace campaign is good for your business.

Our annual fundraising effort kicks off in about two months. To those businesses already planning to host workplace campaigns, we are very grateful. If you would like to start a workplace campaign at your business, please reach out to us at (928) 773-9813 or email me or Campaign and Operations Manager Christine Pierce. We’d love to help.

The NAU Review — Meet NAU’s Fulbright Scholar, Humans of NAU with Patty Diaz and a new faculty fellowship

by Community Contributor • July 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Faculty fellowship supports Hispanic community

The Dr. Richard D. Young Hispanic & Emerging Communities Faculty Fellowship will advance NAU’s designation as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and support research on the emerging Hispanic community in Arizona.
Read the story

Coconino County can help Income eligible individuals repair/replace utility-related appliances, systems

by Community Contributor • July 21, 2023 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Income eligible individuals can contact Coconino County Health and Human Services for financial assistance to repair or replace broken appliances including:

Water Heaters, Refrigerators, Cooking Stoves
Microwaves, Furnaces, Air Conditioners
Home Telephone (Landline Only), Washers/Dryers
Evaporative Coolers, Electrical Panels

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

by Community Contributor • July 13, 2023 • Comments Off

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

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

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

by Community Contributor • July 5, 2023 • Comments Off

By the Vitalist Spark podcast

During this episode of the Vitalyst Spark Podcast, we will be exploring systems change and talking to 2023 Systems Change Grant recipient Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth to talk to us about their Self-Healing Community System and Policy Change in Coconino County initiative.

We will be joined by members of the Coalition, including Virginia Watahomigie, Executive Director; Becky Daggett, Mayor of Flagstaff; and Andrea Meronuck, Clinical Director with Northland Family Help Center.

CCC’s Comet Promise helps students Start Small and Go Big

by Community Contributor • June 27, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The scenario is all too common: Some students struggling to make ends meet and who qualify for federal financial aid still don’t quite have the funds to completely cover the cost of their tuition. To those students, such a barrier is hard, if not impossible, to overcome.

Coconino Community College makes those students a promise: The college will cover the difference.

The Comet Promise program helps eligible students pay for their education by covering the cost of tuition when federal grants fall short. The program aims at helping remove economic barriers to offer a pathway for CCC students to complete their certificate or degree.

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

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2023 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, Ariz.— The National Park Service announces the selection of North Rim Hospitality, LLC, to provide lodging, food and beverage, retail, and other services at the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park under a concession contract that will be effective for 15 years from January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2038.

North Rim Hospitality, LLC, a subsidiary of Aramark, is currently serving as the concessioner at the North Rim. In addition to the North Rim, they operate many other visitor services concession contracts throughout the National Park Service and this new contract will ensure continuity of services.

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

by Community Contributor • June 14, 2023 • Comments Off

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

CCC tax reset update: Promises made, promises kept

by Community Contributor • May 26, 2023 • Comments Off

Promises made, promises kept by your community college.

One year after the passage of a primary property tax reset for Coconino Community College, CCC has made significant progress in following through on commitments made to the voters of Coconino County. Of the several programs and initiatives promised by the increase in the primary property tax rate to Coconino Community College, many of them have already been implemented or are in process.

“To date, we’ve fulfilled nearly 75 percent of the items we noted on the ballot initiative,” said CCC President Eric Heiser, Ph.D. “And guess what? We’re not done yet. We have many new and exciting career and technical education programs and courses in the pipelines.”

Notice of Public Hearing Regarding Board Proposal to Incur Long-Term Debt

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2023 • Comments Off

In June, The Coconino County Board of Supervisors will be considering a long-term debt proposal in Coconino County.

The long-term debt will be used to finance the costs of road, transportation, and public safety projects in and for the County, acquisition of equipment, land and buildings, and construction, maintenance and improvements to County facilities, properties, and infrastructure.

The total estimated financing cost will be $89.9 million consisting of an estimated principal amount of $80 million and total estimated interest of $9.9 million.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — The Booming BioScience Sector

by Community Contributor • May 11, 2023 • Comments Off

The biosciences continue to be one of the most dynamic sectors in our state’s economy, and northern Arizona had many highlights to share in the latest Arizona Bioscience Roadmap progress report.

The roadmap is a long-term strategic plan originally commissioned by the Flinn Foundation in 2002 and updated in 2014 with the goal of Arizona becoming globally competitive and a national leader in select areas of the biosciences by 2025.

In fields such as precision medicine, neuroscience, bioengineering, agricultural biotechnology and more, Arizona has become globally competitive because of its deep talent base, the ability to turn research and discoveries into commercial products, and the critical mass of entrepreneurship to turn those products into enterprises.

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez April – May Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 5, 2023 • Comments Off

I hope you are enjoying the warmer weather as the sun begins to shine
more often. As the weather warms, it is important to keep in mind how the
changing weather will also affect the landscape of our district. It is
important to keep in mind what preventative measures we can take as a
community to protect ourselves and our community. April is coming to a
close and I would like to recognize the proclamations we have created as
the Board of Supervisors and county. I would like to honor that April is
Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Child Abuse Prevention Month, and
Earth Month. As we continue with our year, it is important to keep into
consideration the discussion and actions we have taken as both a county
and community to continue the dialogue of the issues we are facing
holistically. That said, I would like to highlight all county employees for
continuing to create discussion and honoring the topics that affect our
community.

Coconino County is Offering Paid Summer Internships for Local Teens Interested in Work Experience

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2023 • Comments Off

Coconino County Health and Human Services and the Coconino County Workforce Development Board are offering Youthworks, a 2023 summer work experience program for teens.

This program provides a unique opportunity for teens aged 15 to 18 to explore career pathways, make connections, and earn a wage.

Youthworks internships run from May 30 to August 1, 2023. The internship is designed to help teens discover what they might want to do in their future career. Participants will earn a wage of $16.80 per hour and work up to 40 hours per week.

Board of Supervisors Approves Updates to Coconino County Fair Fees

by Community Contributor • May 3, 2023 • Comments Off

At their regular meeting on Tuesday, April 11, 2023, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve fee changes for the Coconino County Fair, effective starting with the 2023 fair.

The Coconino County Fair ticket prices have not increased since 2008, and the changes reflect growth, increasing costs, and staffing needs.

Museum of Northern Arizona Virtual Auction Closes Today at 12 pm (MST)

by Community Contributor • April 19, 2023 • Comments Off

This morning is your last chance to bid on unique experiences through the MNA Virtual Auction. The auction closes today (Wednesday, 4/19) at 12 pm (MST).

We are grateful to the many individuals and businesses who have generously donated their time and services to benefit MNA, and we are grateful to you for your enthusiastic bidding!

The experiences below are just a few of the many items you can bid on before noon. Happy bidding!

Tickets now available for Coconino Community College Palette To Palate on April 28

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2023 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — CCC Arts Fundraiser

The public is invited to enjoy an evening of fine art, fine food and entertainment which will feature a culinary style competition with 10 restaurants live art demonstrations, and live and silent art auctions. Time to dress up and enjoy an evening of epicurean delights

Tickets can be purchased through www.coconino.edu/foundation

Location: Coconino Community College, 2800 S Lone Tree Road, Flagstaff

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Arizona Commerce Authority Tours Northern Arizona

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2023 • Comments Off

It is always a joy showing off all that northern Arizona has to offer – and what new things are on the horizon – to visitors who appreciate the power of economic development in keeping a community vibrant.

So it was with great pleasure that ECoNA recently hosted the business development team from the Arizona Commerce Authority on a whirlwind two-day tour of our region.

We packed a lot into those 48 hours, and our guests could not have been more positive and engaged as they learned more about the strides we are making to improve economic vitality in Flagstaff, Winslow, Sedona, and Camp Verde.

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez February — March Newsletter

by Community Contributor • April 7, 2023 • Comments Off

In this Edition…
Message from Jeronimo
Preparation, Prevention, and Information: Our Surrounding
Environment
District 2 Highlights
Special Spotlight: Areina Contreras
Service Positions & Job Listings
Services and Programs
Community Events & Resources
And more!

CCC’s Cassidy receives All-USA Academic Scholarship

by Community Contributor • April 4, 2023 • Comments Off

David Cassidy, a student at Coconino Community College, is one of 20 college students named to the prestigious All-USA Academic Team and will receive a $5,000 scholarship. More than 2,400 students were nominated nationwide for the award.

“It is an honor, a profound honor, and it was very unexpected,” said Cassidy, who also is one of CCC’s two All-Arizona Academic Team scholarship awardees who were honored during a ceremony in Phoenix last month. “It means that I have the opportunity to receive an education and to pursue a career that will enable me to contribute as meaningfully as possible.”

All-USA Academic Team members were selected for their outstanding intellectual achievement, leadership, community and campus engagement, according to information from the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, which recognizes the academic achievement of students at two-year colleges like CCC.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Support F3 on AZ Gives Day!

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2023 • Comments Off

AZ Gives Day
Please help F3 reach our fundraising goal of $1000!

Sedona Arts Center — Arizona Gives Day is April 4!

by Community Contributor • April 3, 2023 • Comments Off

“There are so many reasons to support the arts and Sedona Arts Center on AZ Gives Day and every day! First and foremost, the arts enrich our lives and help define our cultures. They help us build bridges and open dialog and create understanding. They contribute to better health and wellness, heal trauma and allow us to age more gracefully. They alleviate stress and that alone has saved lives. The arts are an incredible economic driver and contribute billions to our economy nationwide.

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