Category: Government

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — The Power of Workforce Visualization

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2024 • Comments Off

How can a community better plan for its workforce needs?

Given the increasing complexity of our economy and the difficulty of obtaining reliable data, it can be challenging for policymakers, businesses, and educators to plan for future growth.

That challenge is being addressed by the Arizona Education and Workforce Visualization Project, part of the Arizona State University / Helios Decision Center for Educational Excellence.

The director of the Decision Center, Dr. Joe O’Reilly, will be presenting on the tools from the visualization project at an upcoming meeting of ECoNA’s Advisory Council.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Important Voting Information and F3’s Guide

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2024 • Comments Off

F3 believes strongly in civic engagement and we hold the vision that community members should participate fully at every level of decision-making. F3’s strives to provide voters with information to assist in making decisions regarding our local elections by providing our Candidate Questionnaires for City Council and, new this year, the Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) School Board.

F3 has also produced our election year “Voter’s Guide to State and Local Propositions 2024.” This Guide will assist voters in understanding the three city and county propositions on the ballot, as well as the 13 state propositions.

City of Flagstaff hosts Indigenous Peoples Day celebration event on Oct. 14

by Community Contributor • October 10, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will host an Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. The event, titled “Reflecting | Honoring | Resilience: Voices for Land and Community”, will take place from 9a.m. to 2p.m. and will feature presentations and cultural shares through songs and dances. Lunch will be served to attendees. The event will be held at the Elks Lodge (2101 N San Francisco St.) A schedule of the event will be posted on the City’s website.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — FBN publishes ‘Promoting a Healthy Community through Trauma-Informed Systems Change’

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2024 • Comments Off

Editor’s note — The Flagstaff Business News published the following guest contribution on Oct. 4, 2024 by Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett written with support of CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie.

By Becky Daggett • Guest contribution to the Flagstaff Business News

During the post-wildfire flooding of 2021, I witnessed interactions between people who were worried, tired and angry. Residents, volunteers and staff were all scrambling to protect homes, find solutions and bring relief to those impacted. We were all doing our best during a time when nobody’s best seemed good enough. As my time as a city councilmember and then mayor has progressed, I’ve gotten to know many city staff and I see how difficult and stressful their jobs often are.

Most would agree that people seem to be experiencing unprecedented levels of stress. This stress can sometimes result in negative – and at times, angry – interactions between people. What some of us don’t realize is that there are past situations and circumstances that can lead us into these negative interactions.

The Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth (CCC&Y) has been supporting child well-being for more than 50 years in our community. Through child abuse prevention efforts, including education about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES), CCC&Y has galvanized support, education and awareness to support our community … Since 2016, CCC&Y has tried to get this information into the hands of greater numbers of our community because the effects of childhood trauma are experienced not only individually, but also by the community. We all have a role to play in the healing. Further, the effects are not limited to childhood. …

Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie approached me about a three-year change grant they were about to apply for through Vitalyst Health Foundation and we discussed getting the city involved in their project. Believing that the project had the potential to make lives better for people across our community, I enthusiastically agreed to discuss the opportunity with our city manager. He agreed, as did leadership from Coconino County. …

Read the entire guest contribution here in the Flagstaff Business News

City of Flagstaff offices closed on Indigenous Peoples Day

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Monday, Oct. 14 in honor of Indigenous Peoples Day. City Hall offices will reopen Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on Indigenous Peoples Day include:

East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N. Izabel St.)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)
Hazardous Products Center (6770 E Landfill Rd.)

Prescribed burns planned on Coconino National Forest week of Oct. 7

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to continue work on several prescribed burn projects this week that will help restore healthier conditions to the fire-adapted ponderosa pine forests of northern Arizona.

Prescribed burns will be canceled if weather conditions – such as temperature, wind or humidity – do not meet the criteria outlined in the burn plans.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 10/7/24

by AmigosNAZ.com • October 7, 2024 • Comments Off

View this email in your browser October 7th, 2024 Connect with your community Upcoming Library Closures Adult & All-Ages Events Book Clubs Youth Events Friends of the Library Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability,…

City of Flagstaff — Inner Basin Waterline repair project complete after wildfire damage

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District are proud to announce the substantial completion of the Inner Basin Waterline repair project. The project repaired an important water pipeline that delivers two to four million gallons of water per day to Flagstaff that was damaged by post-wildfire flooding from the 2022 Pipeline Fire.

Blue Stem Prescribed Fire Complete, Rx Burns Continuing on Williams Ranger District This Week

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2024 • Comments Off

WILLIAMS — Fire managers have successfully treated 6904 acres on Tusayan Ranger District last week completing the Blue Stem Rx Fire Project and are moving back to the Three Sisters Prescribed Fire Project located just north of the City of Williams and Interstate 40, south of forest road 124, between Airport Road and the west side of Highway 64.

Improving weather conditions have re-opened the opportunity for crews to return working in the local areas near Williams and Spring Valley. Plans are in place to begin ignitions on approximately 1500 acres of the Pronghorn and Cataract units of Three Sisters project on Tuesday October 8, and then move to the 4200 acre Marteen East Rx Fire Project later this same week. This project is located north of Spring Valley, west of forest road 144, and east of Laws Spring.

Coconino County Voter Registration Deadline Is Oct. 7 for General Election

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The voter registration deadline for the November 5, 2024 General Election is Monday, Oct. 7, 2024.

To register to vote, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old by Election Day, reside within Coconino County and have no felony convictions, unless civil rights have been restored.

Registered voters who have moved, changed their name or wish to change their political party affiliation must re-register.

Voter registration deadline for the General Election is Monday, Oct. 7th

by Community Contributor • October 4, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The voter registration deadline for the General Election is Monday, Oct. 7th. That is the last day to register to vote or update your voter registration! Register to vote online at servicearizona.com

Also, visit the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC)’s 2024 Elections Available for the Community webpage for information in English and español.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 30-Oct. 4, 2024

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

Beginning October 8, fire managers from the National Park Service and US Forest Service will initiate prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. These operations, part of the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program, will continue into December, depending on weather and fuel conditions.

Targeted areas for burning include Highway 67 near Jacob Lake, the Telephone Hills area, Demotte, and portions southwest of Forest Road 22 on the North Kaibab Ranger District, as well as areas near the North Rim Developed area and Cape Royal in the park.

Residents and visitors may notice smoke during ignition operations, especially along Highways 89A and 67. The Cape Royal Road will be closed from sunset on Oct. 13 through Oct. 18 while the road to Point Imperial will remain open.

A total of 25,371 acres on the North Kaibab Ranger District and 4,347 acres on the North Rim will be treated to reduce hazardous fuels and maintain the ecosystem’s natural fire processes. Fire managers will coordinate with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to mitigate potential smoke impacts.

Coconino National Forest — Resources responding to small wildfire in Schultz Pass area north of Flagstaff

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Resources are responding to the Hollow Fire, a roughly 1.5-acre wildfire located in the Schultz Pass area 5 miles north of Flagstaff.

Resources responding to the incident include two engines.

Firefighters are currently working to suppress the fire using adjacent trail systems as holding features.

Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim to Begin Day-Use Operations on Oct. 16, 2024

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ. — Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim will begin day-use operations on October 16, 2024. Grand Canyon Lodge will close, and no overnight accommodations, including camping, will be available to visitors. Those exploring the North Rim on or after October 16 should plan to be self-sufficient, bringing enough food and water for the day.

Available services will include a self-serve gas station that accepts only credit and debit cards for as long as State Route 67 remains open. After October 31, water will be available only at the North Rim Administration Building. The entrance gate on State Route 67 will close at sunset on November 30, 2024, or after the first major snowstorm, whichever comes first.

New Leadership Announced in the Coconino County Attorney’s Office

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Attorney’s Office has initiated a succession plan that includes the resignation and reassignment of County Attorney Bill Ring.

At the Board of Supervisors meeting today, Ring’s resignation was accepted, and he was appointed Chief Civil Deputy Attorney, while Chief Deputy County Attorney Ammon Barker was sworn in as interim County Attorney, and Senior Criminal Attorney Michael Tunink was appointed Chief Deputy County Attorney. All actions were approved by the Board of Supervisors.

Coconino National Forest Fall 2024 Partnership Newsletter

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

… In my short time on the Coconino National Forest, the extreme diversity of what our forest has to offer has been amazing to experience. From low deserts and our world-renowned Red Rock Country to the remnants of an ancient volcano that stands as Arizona’s tallest peak to the Mogollon Rim that runs for hundreds of miles across central Arizona, the Coconino is an amazingly diverse forest unlike any that I have worked on.

Community invited to comment on draft Stormwater Management Design Manual

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2024 • Comments Off

The Stormwater Management Design Manual has been developed to assist in the design and evaluation of public and private stormwater management facilities within the boundaries of the City of Flagstaff. The manual establishes stormwater management policies, design procedures, and design criteria for conducting hydrologic and hydraulic studies, designs, and evaluations. Revisions include updating outdated terms and conditions from the existing 2009 Stormwater Management Design Manual.

Community invited to share guiding ideas for new Flagstaff City logo

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff invites the community to take a short survey to share ideas for a new City logo. The survey will ask respondents about broad concepts that will serve as inspiration for the design of a new logo, as it is crucial to the City that the logo design represents the history, culture, and values of the Flagstaff community as a whole. This survey is the first of several opportunities for the community to provide direct feedback on the logo project. To access the survey, visit flagstaf.az.gov/logo. The deadline to complete the survey is Oct. 25, 2024.

City of Page Happenings — October 2024

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Welcome to the October edition of our community newsletter!

2023 Grand Canyon Drinking Water Quality Report now available

by Community Contributor • October 1, 2024 • Comments Off

Grand Canyon National Park is required to annually distribute a consumer confidence report for the park’s drinking water. The purpose is to allow consumers to make educated decisions regarding any potential health risks pertaining to the quality, treatment, and management of drinking water.

To view the entire report, click on the button below. If you have any questions or comments about this report or your public water supply, please contact the GRCA Water Utility team at 928-638-7898.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 9/30/24

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2024 • Comments Off

Connect with your community

Temporary closure of parking lot and FUTS near Visitor Center for Snowmelt System Installation Project

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will begin construction on the Flagstaff Visitor Center Snowmelt System Installation Project on Oct. 7, 2024. This project will enhance safety and accessibility for all visitors to the Visitor Center by installing a heated walkway to aid with snowmelt during the winter season. To facilitate the completion of the project, the Visitor Center west parking lot, including the ChargePoint charging stations, will be closed to vehicles and pedestrian traffic from Oct. 7 – Nov. 4. The Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) path that runs along Route 66 and the Visitor Center north entrance will also be fully closed to both pedestrian and vehicular traffic during this time.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 23-27, 2024

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2024 • Comments Off

Naturalization Ceremony at the Grand Canyon

On September 20, the Grand Canyon served as a breathtaking backdrop for the naturalization of 30 new American citizens from 11 diverse countries, including Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, Turkey, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Vietnam. This ceremony, the first since 2019, celebrated unity and hope as it brought together individuals and families embarking on their new journeys as U.S. citizens. Held at Mather Amphitheater, the event was part of US Citizenship and Immigration Services annual celebration of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day, emphasizing the importance of citizenship in American democracy.

The ceremony featured a welcome from Havasupai spiritual leader James Uqualla, grounding the event in cultural heritage and respect for the land. U.S. Magistrate Judge Camille D. Bibles presided over the proceedings, which included the Oath of Allegiance administered by U.S. District Court Deputy Clerk Christina Davison. New citizens were reminded of the principles of freedom and diversity as they took their oaths. Adding to the solemnity of the occasion, Audrey Stone of the band, Juniper Hill, beautifully performed the National Anthem.

The event also included a presentation of colors by the Air Force ROTC Honor Guard from Northern Arizona University and a musical performance by the A-Train Sound. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of citizenship certificates, emotional cheers from friends and family, and a Pledge of Allegiance led by Supervisory Immigration Services Officer Ramon Melocarela. This meaningful celebration not only recognized a significant milestone for the new citizens but also underscored the lasting spirit of diversity that enhances American society.

Discover Flagstaff — Flagstaff Festival of Science, Various Locations Sept. 26 through 29

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2024 • Comments Off

Flagstaff Festival of Science, Various Locations.

The Flagstaff Festival of Science is a free, 10-day event celebrating science in Northern Arizona, established in 1990 and known as the longest continuously running, free science festival in the world. Various Times.

Learn More

City of Flagstaff announces completion of Landfill Road Reconstruction Project

by Community Contributor • September 26, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is proud to announce the completion of the Landfill Road Reconstruction Project, which re-paved and improved the road from US Hwy 89 to the Cinder Lake Landfill northeast of Flagstaff. The completed project provides reliable and easy access to the Landfill for customers, as well as increased stormwater capacity along the road, which was necessary due to wildfires and post-wildfire flooding in the area.

Coconino County — Open House on Oct. 2 to provide voter education for Propositions on 2024 Ballot

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — A Health and Human Services Open House will be held on from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 2625 N. King St., Flagstaff. Proposition 482, Proposition 487, and Proposition 488 will be on the ballot this year.

“There are many important propositions on the ballot this year,” said Coconino County Elections Director Eslir Musta. “And for some voters, it will be a rather lengthy ballot, so it is imperative that voters take advantage of education opportunities so that they can know their vote before they go to the polls.”

Coconino National Forest managing lightning-caused Brigade Fire west of Fort Tuthill

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2024 • Comments Off

Managing this fire to allow it to consume hazardous forest fuels such as pine needles, cones, and dead wood, which will help create a buffer in an area that is typically susceptible to the direction of catastrophic wildfires during traditional southwest winds. In the long run, the treatment this fire provides will help protect residents, the surrounding community, powerlines, and the airport.

Publicity Pamphlet for Proposition 482 Mailed to Coconino County Residents This Week

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2024 • Comments Off

This pamphlet, presented in both English and Spanish, contains the official language of Proposition 482 as well as the language of a YES vote and a NO vote as they will appear on ballots in November.  

Also included in the pamphlet are the detailed description of Arizona’s Constitutional Amendment setting the County’s base expenditure in 1980, Frequently Asked Questions, and statements from community members regarding their thoughts about Proposition 482.

Visitor surveys to be conducted on Coconino National Forest

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Beginning October 2, the public will encounter contract employees working on the Coconino National Forest in developed and dispersed recreation sites and along forest service roads as they conduct surveys to help inform future forest management.

The National Visitor Use Monitoring survey is conducted every five years on national forests, which provides forest managers with an estimate of how many people recreate on the national forest, what activities they engage in while there, and how satisfied people were with their visit.

Coconino National Forest prepares for fall prescribed burn projects

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2024 • Comments Off

Fire managers across three districts have plans for 14 prescribed burn projects spanning locations across the national forest, comprising thousands of acres. Since prescribed burns are dependent upon weather conditions, some or all these projects may be implemented. Dates of implementation can also change or projects postponed or cancelled if conditions are not ideal.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) City Council Candidate Election Forum is This Monday the 23rd at 6:00

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2024 • Comments Off

Don’t miss your chance to ask questions of and evaluate the six city council candidates who will appear on Flagstaff’s November ballot. There are three open seats to be filled on council during this fall election.

F3’s unique speed-dating format will allow Flagstaff voters to meet each candidate while seated with a small group. We’ve worked to provide a quiet environment in which to interact with each candidate by securing nearby classrooms located a short walk from the Commons. Each small group of participants will be physically separated and able to concentrate and hear the interactions with each candidate as they rotate between classrooms.

City of Flagstaff announces prescribed burn southwest of Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods planned for Sept. 23 & 24

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department southwest of the Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods on Monday, Sept. 23 and Tuesday, Sept. 24. The burn will target approximately 40 acres within the Jesse Gregg RX Units. Resources on scene will include the City of Flagstaff Wildland Fire Management Module and Greater Flagstaff Area Fire Academy recruits.

Coconino County Board of Supervisors officially proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Coconino County!

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2024 • Comments Off

In recognition of the 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” the County acknowledges how Latinos and Latinas are pioneers of change who are shaping the future, with the spirit of innovation, resilience, and unity that defines the Hispanic experience.

Tri-Diverstiy Councils visit County’s Election Center in Flagstaff to learn about voting security, procedures

by Community Contributor • September 20, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Members of the Tri-Diversity Councils, which included the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and the Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council, visited the Coconino County Election Center in Flagstaff to gain information on ballot security for the Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2024 General Election.

A team of election officials answered a wide variety of election-related questions during the nearly two-hour tour.

Participants were able test the system using KNOWiNK PollPadsfor registration validation and then submit via traditional ink-marked paper ballot or ExpressVote Marking Devices to submit sample votes. None of the electronic equipment is connected to the internet.

United Way of Northern Arizona Leading the Way with Annual Campaign Kickoff

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2024 • Comments Off

We are so excited to announce that United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) has officially launched its 2024-2025 Annual Campaign!

Our kickoff was last week at a high-energy event with our campaign co-chairs, Northern Arizona University President Dr. José Luis Cruz Rivera and Dr. Rima Brusi, a professor at the university’s Honor College.

Below you’ll find details about the event, including the outstanding work of our Pacesetters in jump starting this year’s campaign. Thanks to everyone who attended and we hope you will join us in “Leading the Way” by supporting UWNA.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 16-20, 2024

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2024 • Comments Off

Important Update: Phantom Ranch Closure Added to Inner Canyon Trail Closures

The National Park Service (NPS) is providing an important update regarding inner canyon trail closures to support the Transcanyon Waterline (TCWL) construction project.

In addition to previously announced closures, please note that Phantom Ranch will be closed from January 2, 2025, to March 30, 2025, as the construction contractor, Stronghold Engineering, will be performing extensive excavation work in this area.

As a reminder, the other current inner canyon closure dates are:

Bright Angel Trail north of Havasupai Gardens and the Silver Bridge: Oct 21, 2024 – May 14, 2025
Bright Angel Campground: Nov 4, 2024 – May 14, 2025
Plateau Point Trail from the Tonto Trail Junction north of Havasupai Gardens to Plateau Point: Oct. 12, 2023 – May 14, 2025

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Northern Arizona Bioscience Advancements

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2024 • Comments Off

This is Arizona Bioscience Week, and there is no better time to spotlight the significant wins for bio-based businesses in Northern Arizona. From groundbreaking medical advancements to a growing bioscience ecosystem, the region is strengthening its position as a leader in innovation in the sector.

Here are some of the recent highlights:

Last month, Northern Arizona Healthcare announced it had entered into a cancer care coordination agreement with City of Hope, one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the nation, to help treat complex or rare cases of cancer in northern Arizona. The model will increase access to cancer care for northern Arizonans, and allow them to get expert support from City of Hope providers without having to leave NAH oncology care.

City of Flagstaff — Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project complete, Spruce Wash flood mitigation projects move forward

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and its contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, are proud to announce the completion of the Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project. This project included lowering and replacing utilities along Grandview and full street reconstruction to install new curbs, gutters, and inverted asphalt to better channel floodwaters. This is the first of a series of planned flood mitigation projects as part of the Spruce Wash suite of projects.

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said “the completion of the Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project is a reason to celebrate and a significant step toward mitigating post-wildfire flooding in this area. Thank you to the residents who voted for Prop 441, giving the city the necessary funding, to city staff for their dedication, and to all the impacted residents for their patience. Together, we’ll keep making progress toward making flood-impacted neighborhoods safer.”

Flagstaff Regional Plan 2045 — September 2024 update

by Community Contributor • September 19, 2024 • Comments Off

When
Monday, September 30, 2024, 6 PM – 9 PM

Where
City of Flagstaff Public Works Yard
3200 W Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Flagstaff Festival of Science’s ‘Science in the Park’ among a number of upcoming youth and family events

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2024 • Comments Off

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

FLAGSTAFF — With Fall officially beginning Sunday, Sept. 22, local families are having no shortage of outdoor events for their children this month.

Rapidly approaching is the Flagstaff Festival of Science which begins Friday, Sept. 20 with the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation with Jana Eggers at NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium. Eggers will focus on the latest developments in the field of AI, potential threats posed by AI—both perceived and real—and the promise AI holds for the future, festival organizers report.

Free Keynote tickets are still available by clicking HERE.

The festival, which features more than 100 events, continues Snook’s annual Science in the Park, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 21 at Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff.

“The fun is endless at our popular family science fair, where YOU are the scientist for the day! An ideal event for families, all booths will have hands-on activities for youth of all ages,” festival organizers report. “Discover something new and interact with over 50 vendors (including the Coconino Coaltion for Children & Youth) from a variety of Flagstaff scientific institutions!”

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) Voter Guide to State and Local Propositions is Now Available!

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2024 • Comments Off

F3 has closely examined the 16 propositions that will appear on Flagstaff’s General Election ballot this fall. This includes 13 State, one County, and two City propositions.

Below is the visual summary of F3’s recommendations.

An explanation of each of the propositions and the reasoning for our recommendations can be found by clicking on the image below or by going to our website.

100 Bison Successfully Relocated from Grand Canyon’s North Rim

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ.— On Sept. 13, Grand Canyon wildlife managers successfully relocated 100 bison from the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. All bison were transferred to the Intertribal Buffalo Council, which transported them to the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.

City of Flagstaff Road work continues through September in Downtown, Coconino Estates, Sunnyside and University Heights areas

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Road repair and maintenance work continues throughout Flagstaff as part of the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) project. Work on Aspen Ave. is scheduled for Sept. 17 and 18, when crews will complete final asphalt pavement surfacing and markings. Single lane closures will be in place on Aspen Avenue from Humphreys St. to Elden St to facilitate the work. Flaggers will be present at the intersections and delays are likely for motorists in the area.

Grand Canyon National Park seeks public comment on proposed backcountry fee increase

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ. — Grand Canyon National Park is seeking the public’s input on a proposed increase for backcountry permit fees. The proposed change would begin May 1, 2025.

The existing $10 per application fee would remain the same and the nightly per-person fees would increase: the below-rim fee would go from $15 to $24 per person per night, and the above-rim fee would go from $4 to $6 per person per night.

Interested parties can provide feedback on the proposal online at: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/GRCA_Backcountry_Fee_Increase through October 12, 2024. Written comments should be submitted through this website.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 9/16/24

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

Connect with your community

Coconino County Urges Continued Investment in Forest Restoration During Roundtable with USDA Sec. Vilsack

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

“Coconino County is no stranger to wildfire,” Vasquez said. “We have endured 9 major wildfires that have burned over 250,000 acres since 2010, and since 2017, the County Board of Supervisors has acknowledged that wildfire and post-wildfire flooding are the two greatest public safety threats to our people. That is why we have embarked on a Forest Restoration Initiative and used local Flood Control District tax dollars to leverage federal investment in forest restoration.”

Coconino County — Understand and Make a Plan to Vote This November

by Community Contributor • September 13, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County voters will see a long 19-inch ballot this November, and City of Page precincts 72, 73, 74, and 54 will see a two-page, four-sided ballot for the first time in the county’s history.

The ballot will include federal, state, county and local races for elected office, and state propositions on the front side and propositions by citizens petitions, or referrals from the state legislature and local jurisdictions on the back side of the ballot. There is a minimum of 14 propositions on every ballot

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 9-13, 2024

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, we are excited to share a new promotional video featuring Joshua Stegemeyer, Arizona Department of Health Services Suicide Prevention Program Manager.

This video emphasizes the crucial role of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7 support for those experiencing mental health crises or suicidal thoughts. Residents of Grand Canyon, AZ, can call or text “9-8-8” to connect with trained crisis counselors who offer immediate, compassionate help at no cost. For those who prefer, support is also available via chat at 988lifeline.org/chat.

For our community living at Grand Canyon, this information is particularly relevant as it ensures that help is always accessible, regardless of time or location. The 988 Lifeline offers specialized support for a wide range of individuals, including those in remote areas like ours. By promoting awareness of this vital service, we can help ensure that everyone in our community knows they have a valuable resource available whenever they need it.

For more details about what happens when you contact 988, please visit azhealth.gov/988.

Discover Flagstaff — Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass and Acoustic Music Festival, Pepsi Amphitheater Sept. 13-15

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

Join us for Pickin’ in the Pines, voted “Flagstaff’s Best Festival” for the last 6 years! Live music, camping, jamming, music workshops, band contest, community dance, kids activities and amazing memories made in the pines! Fri-Sat 10 a.m., Sun 9 a.m

Learn More

Harm Reduction Products Available in New CCHHS Vending Machine

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) has announced the availability of a new Public Health Harm Reduction (PHHR) Vending Machine to provide convenient access to free lifesaving harm reduction supplies.

The self-serve PHHR vending machine is located in the lobby of the CCHHS Flagstaff office, 2625 N. King Street. Access is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, excluding holidays.

Public health vending machines are an innovative, low-barrier strategy to reduce stigma and reach those who may not already be connected to harm-reduction services. Similar machines in the United States have demonstrated success at reducing rates of overdose and infectious disease.

Bilingual report — City of Flagstaff announces minimum wage for 2025

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, the minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase to $17.85 and $16.85 for tipped workers.

On Sept. 11, 2024, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released the consumer price index (CPI) numbers for August of 2024. The CPI for August 2024 was 2.5% greater than for August 2023. Accordingly, the minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase to $17.85 per hour on Jan. 1, 2025.

Grand Canyon National Park Eases Water Restrictions

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ.— Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim will transition to Stage 2 water restrictions due to rising water levels in reservoir tanks.

Operational changes include:

South Rim:

Camper Services, operated by Delaware North, will reopen to the public.
Water spigots in Mather Campground and Desert View Campground will be turned on.
Fire restrictions throughout the South Rim will be lifted. However, the park will remain under Stage 1 fire restrictions, which require campfires to be contained within designated fire rings in maintained campgrounds. In the inner canyon, only gas cook stoves are permitted; campfires and other open fires are not allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permits regarding fires along the Colorado River.

Tourism to Grand Canyon National Park contributed $768 million to local economy in 2023

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2024 • Comments Off

“I’m so proud that our parks and the stories we tell make a lasting impact on more than 300 million visitors a year,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “And I’m just as proud to see those visitors making positive impacts of their own, by supporting local economies and jobs in every state in the country.”

“We’re excited to see how the Grand Canyon continues to drive economic growth in our local communities,” said Grand Canyon Superintendent Ed Keable. “The spending by our visitors not only underscores the park’s allure but also highlights its vital role in supporting jobs and boosting the regional economy.”

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 9/9/24

by Community Contributor • September 9, 2024 • Comments Off

Connect with your community

Downtown Flagstaff — First Friday ArtWalk, Downtown Flagstaff and more events

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2024 • Comments Off

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

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport announces planned emergency response exercise on Sept. 9

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) would like to inform the public of an increased presence of first responders at the airport on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024. This heightened activity is part of a planned full-scale exercise, “Operation Ready FLG.” The exercise involves a simulated aircraft incident and is being conducted in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Flight operations at the airport will not be affected.

The primary objective of “Operation Ready FLG” is to test and enhance the airport’s emergency response capabilities. The exercise will involve local, state, and federal agencies, with a focus on improving interoperability and coordination.

Flagstaff Pedestrian underpass construction moves forward; traffic pattern changing

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2024 • Comments Off

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and their contractor, Eagle Mountain Construction, along with the Arizona Department of Transportation, have finished installing a portion of the large concrete structure for the new pedestrian underpass on the west side of Milton Road. With this work complete, crews will begin installing the remaining portion of the concrete structure and appurtenances on the east side of Milton Road.

Bilingual report — City of Flagstaff announces Neighborhood Sustainability Grants applications now open through Sept. 30

by Community Contributor • September 4, 2024 • Comments Off

The Neighborhood Sustainability Grant (NSG) Program provides funding for creative projects that enhance community sustainability and promote healthy lifestyles through community partnerships.

The NSG Program for the year 2024 will award a total of $75,000, with maximum grants up to $7,500. The NSG is funded through the Environmental Management Fee. Local organizations, individuals, schools, and businesses whose projects are within Flagstaff city limits are eligible to apply. Applicants are eligible for one grant every other year.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s City Council Candidate Questionnaire Now Available

by Community Contributor • September 4, 2024 • Comments Off

All six candidates named on the November general election ballot have answered the questions posed by F3 in our City Council Candidate Questionnaire. Flagstaff voter’s will decide who among the candidates will fill three open seats on City Council.

Eight questions addressing local issues and concernswere crafted by F3’s Board and Director. The candidates were asked to keep their replies to 150 words or less. We thank those who provided us with potential questions for the candidates.

There are many more questions to be asked of the council candidates and we encourage you to attend F3’s upcoming City Council Candidate Forum on September 23 (see below for details) and ask your questions.

View the candidate’s answers here:

Grand Canyon National Park to Reopen South Rim Hotels Sept. 5

by Community Contributor • September 4, 2024 • Comments Off

GRAND CANYON, AZ. — Grand Canyon National Park will reopen hotels on the park’s South Rim beginning Thursday, September 5 and transition down to Stage 3 water restrictions.

Park water utility crews successfully completed complex repairs to the Transcanyon Waterline late last week and resumed pumping water without identifying any new breaks. The park will operate under Stage 3 water restrictions until the water storage tanks have adequate capacity to return to routine water conservation practices.

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