Category: Health

United Way of Northern Arizona — KinderCamp™ Events Celebrate Special Summer

The classes were a little smaller, the program was a little shorter, and smoke from wildfires sometimes made getting outside for recess difficult. Despite those challenges, the return of KinderCamp™ last month was a great success.

More than 130 students from Flagstaff, Williams and Pinetop-Lakeside took part in this year’s collaborative project, which prepares pre-school age children academically, socially and emotionally for kindergarten.

“It was great,” said Sara Owen, the coordinator for the project. “The families were excited to be back in person, the kids were happy to be in school, and the teachers were appreciative for a chance to help them grow.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — July 5-July 9, 2021

Social Gathering Reminders

During the summer, it is common to see social gatherings happening in the park.

Here are a few reminders if you are considering attending a gathering:  
If you are unvaccinated, remember that you must wear a face covering when indoors and maintain physical distance from others. You should use extra caution in all situations if you are not vaccinated. Follow CDC guidance and DOI policy to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.  
Even if you are vaccinated, it may be a good idea to have a mask handy in case you need it. Vaccinated people are welcome to wear masks any time they feel it may be helpful.  

The recent surge in the more transmissible Delta variant in surrounding states and in Arizona has made these prevention strategies all the more important.  

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Registration continues for CCC&Y’s 2021 Annual Conference from Aug. 18 through Sept. 8 and more news

“Finding My Strength; Hope in Connection,” is the theme of the 2021 Annual Conference from Aug. 18 through Sept. 8 presented by the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth.

Deanna Singh, author, TEDx talk Speaker, Justice and Equality Advocate, will launch the conference with her presentation “Hustle with Purpose” from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 18 MST/AZ.

Sandra Solano, MD, MS, a Public Health Professional and HeartMath Master Trainer, will lead the day two session with her presentation “From a Smart Brain to a Wise Heart — A Scientist’s Journey” from 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 25.

Other presentations include:

Coconino County Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez — District 2 Newsletter

We have been pretty busy this month! I am enjoying meeting more people and connecting with the District 2 community. It has been a month full of board meetings, events and lots of learning. I have walked along the Museum Fire drainages and am happy to report that a lot of work has gone into improving the drainage. Thank you to United Way, the County and the City for the efforts to get the drainages clear and ready for monsoon season. In addition, we had about 80 volunteers between two weekends come out to support the neighborhood volunteer day. Seeing everyone come together to help one another is a rare sighting, but I know District 2 is full of generous, loving people that want to see their community thrive. As the weather warms up I am looking forward to seeing family, spending time with my kids and working on items for the fall. I hope that you reach out to my office whenever you need. You can reach District 2 at 928-679-7162 or email me at jvasquez@coconino.az.gov or contact my District Director, Areina Contreras at acontreras@coconino.az.gov.

Coconino County Moves Back to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions

As of 6:00 a.m. today, July 6, Coconino County has moved back to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in coordination with the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests.

This decision was made due to the cooler temperatures and recent rainfall which has reduced the risk of wildfire.

Even with the rain and lower temperatures, Coconino County remains in a drought and therefore fire danger remains. The following restrictions apply on County public lands, as well as private lands in the unincorporated areas of the County:

District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman Newsletter for July 2021

Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Happy Independence Day
County Adopts FY22 Budget
Downtown Community Market
United Way Volunteer Day: Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Museum Flood Information Line and Emergency Notifications
Stage 3 Fire Restrictions
CCC Commercial Driver’s License Ribbon Cutting
Pastries with Patrice
Congratulations
Vaccine Incentive Program: Be A Big Shot
COVID Information Line and Testing
Contact Us

Coconino County to Allow the Use Liquid Propane/Gas Grills on Private Property in Stage Three Fire

Coconino County is currently in Stage Three Fire Restrictions due to extreme fire danger and stress on firefighting resources.

Stage Three Fire Restrictions previously included the prohibition of outdoor liquid fuel grills on private property. Coconino County will now allow the use of ALL LIQUID FUEL OUTDOOR GRILLS WITH AN ON/OFF SWITCH at private residences. 

Coconino County — Rafael Fire Information

The #RafaelFire is 95% contained and 78,065 acres with 67 personnel. As firefighters are nearing completion of suppression repair, this will be the final daily update from the Rafael Fire. Thank you for your support.

Bilingual report — The 2021 Museum Flood Preparedness & Mitigation Guide is now Available in Spanish!

The 2021 Museum Flood Preparedness & Mitigation Guide is now available in Spanish on the Museum Flood area web page at www.coconino.az.gov/MuseumFire/FloodArea web page or directly via www.coconino.az.gov/GuiaDeInundaciones2021.  

The Guide offers flood preparation guidelines and resources to help keep you and your family aware, informed, and safe during monsoon season. In addition, the Guide has information regarding emergency notification, sandbag maintenance preparation, what to do after a flood and flood preparation activities by the Coconino County Flood Control District and City of Flagstaff.

County Parks amenities closed in fire restrictions

Coconino County is in Stage Three fire restrictions in the unincorporated areas of the county, including on private lands, in coordination with similar actions by the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests and other agencies in the area. Fire restrictions are effective June 23, 2021 at 8 a.m.

Please be careful with fire and follow current fire restrictions. Read more.
PC: “Indiana Dunes Campsite at Night” by Rob Saker is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/

Coconino County EOC Wildfire Response Morning Update | 7.01.21

This is the final Coconino County Rafael Fire update.

The Coconino County Rafael Fire Call Center was deactivated yesterday. For specific fire related questions and updates, call the Rafael Fire Public Fire Information Line at 928.421.4579.
For Rafael Fire information please visit https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7567. 

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Weekly Update

Our Tuba City office is open but operating remotely, with limited in-person services. When possible, please conduct business by phone or email.

Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday | 10 am to 4 pm
Closed Fridays

If you need assistance, please call: 928-283-4518 or email Miranda at mmorales@coconino.az.gov

City of Flagstaff announces fireworks cancellation

Due to extreme fire danger, the city-sponsored fireworks display scheduled for Sunday, July 4 at the Oakmont restaurant is been cancelled.

The city is currently under Stage 4 Fire Restrictions, which prohibits the sale or use of fireworks within the city. For more information on all fire restriction stages visit the city website at http://www.flagstaff.az.gov/2981/Fire-Restriction-Stages.

Protecting Yourself from Wildfire Smoke

Smoke from the Rafael and Snake Fires continue to affect several communities in the southern part of Coconino County including areas south of 1-40 and west of I-17.  

Anyone who can see, taste, or smell smoke should curtail outdoor activity. People with heart disease, lung disease, or asthma should avoid the outdoors entirely, as should children and the elderly. 

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Weekly Update

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus.

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.

City of Flagstaff enters Stage Four fire restrictions

The city of Flagstaff will enter Stage Four fire restrictions at 8 a.m. on June 23, 2021 in an effort to reduce the potential for unintentional human-caused wildfires within the city limits. The city of Flagstaff cooperates with local, county, state and federal fire management agencies to ensure a coordinated effort is made in fire restrictions actions across jurisdictions.

Full closure of Coconino NF begins Wednesday

Due to fire danger, dry conditions, and persistent wildfire activity during a time when firefighting resources are sparse, the entirety of Coconino National Forest will close for public safety, beginning Wednesday (June 23) at 8 a.m.

A full forest closure means that the public is prohibited from entering any part of Coconino National Forest at any time. Only those with private inholdings will be allowed access to their property, as well as personnel providing utility support where necessary, and firefighters performing their duties.

County Activates Emergency Operations Center and Call Center for Rafael Fire

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) has activated an Emergency Operations Center in response to the Rafael Fire. A Call Center has also been set up to answer questions. Residents may call 928.679.8647 or email rafaelfire@coconino.az.gov 

The Rafael Fire was discovered on June 18, 2021, the result of passing predominantly dry thunderstorms and has continued to increase due to low humidity and wind. All areas south of 1-40, west of I-17, including University Heights, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, Pine Dell, Woody Mountain Road, as well as South Garland Prairie, Pine Aire Estates and residents in between are now in SET status (pre-evacuation).

Sheriff’s Office Ordering Some Residents to SET Status

From the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office: Due to wildfire, residents in all areas south of 1-40 and west of I-17 including University Heights, Kachina Village, Forest Highlands, Pine Dell, Woody Mountain Road are in SET status.

In addition, South Garland Prairie and Pine Aire Estates and residents in between are in SET status, Residents should begin preparing for possible GO order to EVACUATE.  Follow local news and official social media channels for updates. This means there is danger in the area. Residents are advised to locate your emergency go kit and be ready to evacuate if notified from public safety officials. This is NOT an evacuation notification.

Sheriff’s Office Evacuating Dispersed Camping (South of Williams) Due to Rafael Fire

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is evacuating dispersed camping south of Forest Road 535 from the junction of Forest Road 231 road.

The Sheriff’s Office is also evacuating dispersed camping in the Sycamore Canyon area. 

Garland Prairie is reminded to be in READY. READY means Prepare Now.

Flagstaff City Council adopts Carbon Neutrality Plan

The Flagstaff City Council voted to adopt the Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan at their meeting on June 15, 2021. This plan will address the City Council’s goal of achieving community-wide carbon neutrality by 2030 (the goal was set on June 23, 2020). The Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan is an evolving framework for action and was informed by input from conversations with over 2,600 community members as well as community and technical expertise.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — June 14-18, 2021

Stage 2 Fire Restrictions & Extreme Fire Danger

As of June 11, Grand Canyon National Park, along with Coconino County, City of Flagstaff, and the Kaibab and Coconino National Forests have transitioned into Stage 2 fire restrictions. As a reminder, Stage 2 restrictions prohibit any outdoor wood burning and charcoal fires. This does not include liquid petroleum or LPG fueled devices that can be turned on and off such as stoves, lantern, or heating devices. Stage 2 also prohibits outdoor smoking except within an enclosed vehicle.

Coconino County — Slate Fire Update for June 15

Highway 180 has reopened following a week-long closure caused by the Slate Fire, which is located 23 miles northwest of Flagstaff and is now at 11,012 acres and at 16 percent containment. 

While Highway 180 has reopened, motorists are asked to reduce their speeds and keep an eye out for crews still working in the area. Additional portions of the Coconino National Forest are closed to the public for safety reasons. 

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Weekly Update

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held recently at 583 S Lake Powell Blvd, Page, AZ 86040 as the Coconino Juvenile Court moves into a renovated wing at Tse Yaato High School.

Juvenile Court and Adult Probation have shared an office space in Page for decades. Over the last few years, Adult and Juvenile have planned around each other’s events, programming, court, and conferences to accommodate the limited space. This meant a reduction in the services they were both able to offer their clients. The new location has five offices, which is two more than the current space. This gives the Juvenile Court room to expand the CASA program and outreach. The facility is also only for juvenile court youth and their families and has been constructed in a deliberately softer way in order to be trauma-informed. By being located down the hall from the Alternative School they can also offer support to youth more readily.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Volunteers Needed for Sandbag Event June 19

Are you Ready to Live United? Are you at least 16 years old? Do you have a couple of hours to spare this Saturday between 7:30 am and 4 pm?

If the answer to all of the above is yes, we’d like to ask your help assisting the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County with replenishing sandbags protecting hundreds of homes and businesses in the Museum Flood Area.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Resolution to Adopt the Climate Neutrality Plan this Tuesday!

F3 is excited to tell you that City Council will be considering and, we believe, approving the Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan at their meeting this week, Tuesday, June 15. The Plan addresses our Climate Emergency and outlines our strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2030.
 
The Plan establishes a vision for how Flagstaff will create a carbon-neutral future. Achieving this goal will require reducing greenhouse gas emissions through drastic shifts in how we heat and power our buildings, travel from place to place, and manage our waste. These shifts must occur at multiple levels within the community, as well as across the state, the country, and the world. This Plan includes nine target areas for reducing our community’s emissions, each with specific strategies to guide Flagstaff’s work. They include:

AARP Hispanic Connection — ‘Protección al Patrimonio’ and more information

Con motivo de la #SEFIME2021 te invitamos a participar en la videoconferencia PROTECCIÓN AL PATRIMONIO y tomar los mejores consejos y estrategias que te ayudarán en el buen manejo de tus finanzas.
Miércoles 16 de junio
11:00 am
 Transmisión en vivo en Consulmex Nogales
#EducaciónFinancieraSinFronteras
#FinanzasSinFronteras
#InclusiónFInanciera
#ProtegeTuPatrimonio

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — June 7-11, 2021

On Thursday, June 17 there will be a pop up event from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Tusayan IMAX (no registration needed). More information and the flyer for this event can be found here.

On Friday, June 18 the Grand Canyon Clinic will host a COVID-19 vaccine event. Registration is required ahead of time and the full flyer for the event can be found here. To schedule an appointment for the event or at any other time, call the clinic directly at 928-638-2551.   

Slate Fire June 11 Update

The Slate Fire, located 23 miles northwest of Flagstaff along both the east and west sides of Highway 180, is now at 6,248 acres and 17 percent containment. 

Windy and active wildfire conditions, along with burnout operations, are the main factors in the growth of the fire, which is still moving in a northeastern direction.

Crews plan to spend Friday conducting firing operations on the west side of Slate Mountain to bring the fire out to control lines. The firing operations are expected to last 24 to 48 hours, and will allow crews to hold control lines on the west side of Slate Mountain and then shift remaining resources to the east side of the fire. Crews also plan to utilize natural fuel breaks and allow the fire to burn thicker fuels.

Grand Canyon Implements Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Friday, June 11

Due to warm and dry weather conditions and increasing fire danger, Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 2 fire restrictions for the South Rim, North Rim and Inner Canyon beginning at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021.

The restriction encompasses the entire park including all campgrounds, residential areas, backcountry sites, and developed recreation sites including: Phantom Ranch, Cottonwood Campground, Indian Garden Campground and the Colorado River corridor.

Countywide Stage 2 Fire Restrictions to Begin Friday

Stage 2 fire restrictions will begin at 8 a.m., Friday, June 11 across Coconino County. Fire restrictions are to help protect public health by reducing the number of human-caused wildfires.

The County has been in Stage 1 fire restrictions since May 14. The County is enacting Stage 2 restrictions due to forecasted weather and very high fire danger. Restrictions are in coordination with Coconino and Kaibab National Forests and other agencies in the area.

City of Flagstaff enters Stage Two fire restrictions

The city of Flagstaff will enter Stage Two fire restrictions at 8 a.m. on June 11, 2021 in an effort to reduce the potential for unintentional human-caused wildfires within the city limits. The city of Flagstaff cooperates with local, county, state and federal fire management agencies to ensure a coordinated effort is made in fire restrictions actions across jurisdictions.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — ‘Bilingual report — Elevate PreK @ Kinsey ENROLLING NOW!’ and more news

Elevate PreK @ Kinsey is now enrolling. The program features:

• Full day, year-round

• Highly qualified staff

• Play-based curriculum

Tuition-free

• Serving families not currently accessing preschool services

Click here to see what preschool and child care services you qualify for, including Elevate PreK.

Coconino County — Slate Fire Update

The Coconino National Forest is still working to contain the Slate Fire, which is located along Highway 180 and has grown to 2,000 acres.
The fire originated on June 7 approximately 23 miles northwest of Flagstaff on the west side of U.S. Highway 180, adjacent to the Kaibab National Forest. It is currently moving in a northeast direction.
Portions of Highway 180 — from Cedar Ranch to Kendrick Park — will remain closed for the foreseeable future while crews work to contain the fire.

Coconino County Earns National Achievement Award for its Forest Restoration Initiative

Coconino County’s Forest Restoration Initiative has been recognized with an Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo).

The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents. NACo recognized Coconino County’s Forest Restoration Initiative Program in the category of County Resiliency: Infrastructure, Energy & Sustainability. 

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Weekly Update

Our Tuba City office is open but operating remotely, with limited in-person services. When possible, please conduct business by phone or email.

Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday | 10 am to 4 pm
Closed Fridays

If you need assistance, please call: 928-283-4518 or email Miranda at mmorales@coconino.az.gov

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler — Navajo Nation Online Town Hall: USDA Farm Service Debt Relief at 6 p.m. June 7

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer, along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will host an online town hall this evening, Monday, June 7, at 6:00 PM MDT. They will be providing information regarding the USDA Farm Service Agency’s debt relief program for farmers and ranchers.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — May 31-June 4, 2021

VRP Operations: Memorial Day Weekend Report

Rangers were busy this past Memorial Day Weekend with a high volume of calls for Search and Rescue (SAR), Emergency Medical Services, and Law Enforcement incidents.

Many thanks to those who assisted in responding to these calls for service! Photo right: EMS, SAR, and LE personnel use a Sked Stretcher to lift a patient who fell near Mather Point over the weekend. A Sked Stretcher is used in areas that require high angle and/or technical rescue.

Coconino County Fair to be Held In-Person Labor Day Weekend

With guidance from Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) and consideration of the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on outdoor activities and large events, Coconino County Parks & Recreation will produce the 72nd annual Coconino County Fair as an in-person event this Labor Day weekend, September 3 – September 6, 2021. Last year’s Fair was modified to an all-virtual event due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Coconino Community College — ‘A quick word from the President’ and more news

Here at Coconino Community College, we have celebrated our 512 recent graduates with a Commencement Ceremony held virtually in order to keep everybody healthy and safe during the pandemic. It is our hope of hopes that vaccinations are doing their job, and we can all, once again, celebrate our graduates’ achievements in person next year.

As the vaccination effort progresses, and as numbers of COVID-19 infections decline, CCC has begun the process, with health and safety of our students, faculty and staff as priority, of scheduling more in-person course offerings this summer. This fall, if all trends continue, CCC will welcome back students with an increase of in-person courses to help our students find instructional delivery that fits their needs as they get busy recovering from the effects of this global pandemic.

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Fire restrictions in effect, summer camps and archery clinics registration open

Coconino County is in Stage One fire restrictions in the unincorporated areas of the county, including on private lands, in coordination with similar actions by the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests and other agencies in the area. Fire restrictions are effective May 14, 2021 at 8 a.m.

All of Coconino County parks and natural areas remain under Stage One fire restrictions; charcoal/wood grills are not allowed and no campfires are allowed outside of the campground area, visitors may use liquid gas stoves only on improved surfaces. Please be careful with fire and follow current fire restrictions. Read more.

City of Flagstaff — Face covering proclamation rescinded

Flagstaff Mayor Paul Deasy announced his intention to rescind the city’s face covering proclamation at the City Council meeting on May 25. The proclamation went into effect June 20, 2020 and will end May 26. Face coverings are still required on public transportation, at the airport and other areas required by federal law. While the face covering proclamation was rescinded, businesses can still require face coverings and social distancing on private property. During the meeting, the City Council also provided direction to lift the capacity limits on outdoor, city owned sports fields effective May 26. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up for May 24-28, 2021

Navajo Nation Information

Wearing a mask in public is mandatory.
All Navajo Nation Tribal Parks remain closed to visitors. This includes: Antelope Canyon – Lake Powell Navajo Tribal Park, Marble Canyon, Coal Mine Canyon, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, Four Corners Monument, and Little Colorado River Gorge.
The Navajo Nation is currently in a Shelter in Place order, which includes daily curfew hours from 11:00 P.M. MDT to 5:00 A.M. MDT. 
Specific guidance for the Navajo Nation can be found on the Navajo Nation website.

Coconino County Board of Supervisors Lifts Mask Proclamation in Line with CDC Guidance

During Tuesday’s meeting, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors lifted its Face Covering Proclamation effective June 1, 2021.

During Tuesday’s meeting, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors lifted its Face Covering Proclamation effective June 1, 2021. The rescission of the Proclamation results in masks no longer being required in indoor and outdoor settings in Coconino County. Private businesses still have the ability to require masks. Masks continue to be recommended for unvaccinated individuals in indoor settings. Although no longer required, Coconino County supports an individual’s decision to mask when already vaccinated based upon their own comfort level and preference. 

Summer Season Tips for Visiting Grand Canyon National Park

Visitors to Grand Canyon National Park this Memorial Day weekend and through the summer season can expect long lines, full parking lots and crowded conditions.

To make the most of a visit to the park during this time, park rangers recommend the following pro tips:

Pro Tip: Make sure you’re ready for your visit by checking the park website to begin planning your trip. Public health measures are in place including capacity limits, temporary closures and modified operations. As the NPS monitors and responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, the park is working closely with the NPS Office of Public Health to use the latest science to guide decision making. Additional details are available at www.nps.gov/coronavirus.

NAU’s summer term offers convenient, unique learning opportunities for community members and current students

Northern Arizona University offers summer courses for the whole family—in Flagstaff, Phoenix and online. NAU students can supplement their studies or get ahead, and community members can explore topics of personal or professional interest.

From finding more effective ways to communicate at the workplace, to brewing quality beer or learning about the world of Esports at a youth camp, it is easy to learn something new at NAU this summer.

NAU students, community members and future Lumberjacks can choose from more than 1,400 classes.

“We are excited to engage our students and community members in a wide range of learning opportunities this summer,” said Gayla Stoner, vice provost and dean of Online and Innovative Educational Initiatives. “Students of all ages can benefit from these quality educational experiences.”

Friends of Flagstaff Future — Action Alert: Your Support for Climate Neutrality Plan Needed!

F3 needs you to tell City Council that you support the draft Carbon Neutrality Plan. This plan has been written with much knowledge and passion by the Flagstaff Sustainability Program to address our Climate Emergency and outline our strategy to reach carbon neutrality by 2030.
 
Flagstaff needs to reignite the energy and support shown in January 2020 when 300 people and three hours of comments were provided in support of declaring a Climate Emergency. We need your voice! If you are able, comment at the meeting by doing the following:
At least one hour before the meeting on May 25, which begins at 3 pm, send an email to publiccomment@flagstaffaz.gov with the following information.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — May 17-21, 2021

Coconino County Emergency Management has recently launched a ‘one-stop-shop’ fire restrictions website. This new resource includes links to the County Wildfire Defense Ordinance 2021-02, GIS Mapping specific to restrictions, prohibitions of each of the three Stages of Restrictions, and links to all authorities that issue fire restrictions.

Coconino County Emergency Management will maintain this page with appropriate real-time updates, usually following Monday afternoon fire restriction updates.

Grand Canyon National Park remains in Stage 1 fire restrictions at this time with fire danger on both the South and North Rims as ‘Very High.’ As a reminder, Stage 1 fire restrictions are implemented in the park year-round on both the South and North Rims (all campfires must be in designated fire rings and open flames are never allowed below the rim). For more information on Stage 1 fire restrictions and to view the most updated fire information for Grand Canyon visit the park’s Fire Information and Management Website.

Inquiries regarding fire information can also be directed to our public affairs office at grca_public_affairs@nps.gov.

Flagstaff City Council to discuss draft Carbon Neutrality Plan

On June 23, 2020, the Flagstaff City Council declared a Climate Emergency. The Declaration commits Flagstaff to achieving community-wide carbon neutrality by 2030, to respond to the climate emergency and improve quality of life for all residents. With input from the Flagstaff community and technical experts, the city of Flagstaff developed a draft a plan that outlines a framework for action over the next nine years. This plan details seven target areas of action that the city will take to reach carbon neutrality:

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — ‘Say thank you to Arizona child care providers through #ShareTheCareAZ campaign’ and more news

The importance of child care providers to families, to communities and to Arizona’s economy came into clearer view over the past year.

The pandemic caused the abrupt shutdown of many child care and home-based centers. Now, despite drastically reduced enrollment and expensive increased health and safety measures, many centers are determined to serve families who need safe, trusted child care in order to continue working.

While it was challenging for everyone, the resilience and dedication of early educators renewed our deep appreciation for those who provide child care and the essential role it plays. Especially in uncertain times, early care and education providers offer families critical support when they need it most.

Throughout the month of May, First Things First invites Arizonans to show their gratitude for the state’s early care and education providers through the #ShareTheCareAZ campaign. Visit the Share the Care AZ page for simple ways to show support.

AARP Hispanic Connection — What Happened This Week (05/13/21) recap video and more information

What Happened This Week (05/13/21) recap video

COVID-19: Vacuna, Dinero y Más de 11 de mayo, 2021

More videos and information available HERE

— AARP Arizona Hispanic Connection is a platform that educates on relevant issues, celebrates Latino accomplishments, and connects Hispanics of all generations.

City of Flagstaff announces ‘One a day in May’ litter challenge

The city of Flagstaff’s Sustainability Program’s Community Stewards will host a One a Day in May litter challenge. This event runs for the month of May. The top three litter pickers will win great prizes on June 1, 2021.

The Community Steward’s Program is utilizing the phone app Litterati to help participants easily pick up litter as they go about their day. The goal of using Litterati, is to take a photo of the litter through the app, tag it, pick it up and then upload the photo. Litterati will then store the location of the litter, with the type-tag on a map. This will allow Sustainability staff to better identify locations with litter problems and the types of litter out there. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — May 10-14, 2021

Additional Services Reopen on South Rim

Several facilities on the South Rim will be reopening or adding services this week:

Bright Angel Bicycles is now renting Class 1 pedal-assist eBikes and began taking reservations last week for May 14th and beyond. 
On Saturday, May 15th, the Yavapai Coffee Shop will open an hour earlier at 6 a.m.to better accommodate guests. It will close daily at 1 p.m. 
The Canyon Village Deli will reopen on Monday, May 17th daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
Desert View Watchtower opened the ground floor this past Friday May 7th and is open from Friday through Monday. The Watchtower is closed Tuesday through Thursday. 
Village interpretive staff will begin providing visitor information outside of the Visitor Center starting May 21st. 

Learning wildfire suppression at CCC

Cascade Parcell and her instructor Brad Williams study the ponderosa pine. They’re looking for “lean” – the direction the tree wants to fall.

“I’m going to use wedges on this one,” Parcell says, picking up a chainsaw.

She fires up the chainsaw, kneels at the base and starts cutting while Williams carefully watches.

Parcell was one of a handful of students taking the Wildland Fire Chainsaws course in April at Coconino Community College. The course is part of a CCC Wildland Fire Suppression Certificate program.

Fort Tuthill COVID-19 Vaccination Site Closing

The final day of operations for the Fort Tuthill COVID-19 Vaccination Site at 2446 Fort Tuthill Loop in Flagstaff is Tuesday, May 18. Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) vaccination operations will shift to special pop-up vaccination events. 

First and second dose Moderna vaccine and Johnson & Johnson one dose vaccine will continue to be available to those aged 18 and over without an appointment at the Fort Tuthill vaccination site from 8 am – 3 pm through Thursday, May 13 this week. The Fort Tuthill vaccination site will close at 1 pm on Friday, May 14. The site will be open on Monday, May 17 and Tuesday, May 18 from 8 am – 3 pm. 

Grand Canyon National Park Urges Visitors to Hike Safely

Hikers and backpackers hiking in the inner canyon are strongly encouraged to be prepared for excessively hot temperatures greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit this spring and summer season. Hikers attempting rigorous distances, such as ‘Rim to Rim’ through the inner canyon, must be self-reliant and understand their own physical limitations to prevent emergency situations for themselves and responders.

Rangers at Grand Canyon strongly urge visitors who plan to hike in the canyon to take extra precautions and hike safely. Hikers should hike before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., rest in shade whenever possible, and avoid hiking during the heat of the day. Important tips for a successful hike include the following: balancing real food, electrolyte, and water intake; drinking when thirsty; getting wet to stay cool; and stopping hiking if you start to feel ill.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — ‘CCC&Y heading into Summer with new look, strong focus’ and more news

As the region heads into summer, and the hope that the worst of the pandemic is behind us, this seems an appropriate time to reinvigorate ourselves with the promise of a new beginning.
As part of our effort during this nationwide Spring Cleaning, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth welcomes you to explore our new, revitalized website at www.Coconinokids.org
The website features our new logo and brand colors, more images and easier links to a variety of resources you have come to depend on, including:

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage One fire restrictions

The city of Flagstaff will enter Stage One fire restrictions at 8 a.m. on May 14, 2021 in an effort to reduce the potential for unintentional human-caused wildfires within the city limits. The city of Flagstaff cooperates with local, county, state and federal fire management agencies to ensure a coordinated effort is made in fire restrictions actions across jurisdictions.

Coconino County Moves to Stage One Fire Restrictions

Coconino County will move to Stage One fire restrictions in the unincorporated areas of the County, including on private lands, in coordination with similar actions by the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests and other agencies in the area. Fire restrictions are effective Friday, May 14 at 8:00 a.m.

The National Weather Service (NWS) predicts breezy and dry conditions, necessitating the restrictions, and the decision was made in consultation with Federal, State, Tribal, and local Fire District officials to reduce the threat of wildfire. Stage One fire restrictions include a ban on fires including campfires, charcoal, coal and wood stoves, as well as a ban on fireworks.