Category: News

Supervisor Patrice Horstman — District 1 September / October 2024!

IN THIS ISSUE

Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Community Meetings on Post Wildfire Flood Risks and Upper Rio Forest Restoration
Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Homer Wilkes Returns to Discuss Forest Restoration and Celebrate RFOR’s Sawmill
Governor and Attorney General Join the County in Calling For Review of EIS For Pinyon Plain Mine
Capitol Hill Hears From Coconino County
NRCS Chief and Senior Advisor Tom O’Halleran Tour Flood Mitigation Projects Funded by NRCS
Happy First Anniversary to Baaj Nwaavjo I’Tah Kukveni Ancestral Footprints of The Grand Canyon National Monument
Honoring Former Supervisor Ryan with Matt Ryan County Natural Area
Wildland Fire Leadership Council Meet in Flagstaff
Babbitt Ranch Energy Center Ribbon Cutting Celebration
Mike Scott Retires and Flagstaff Family Food Center Acquires Grand Canyon Food Pantry
Supervisor Horstman Sworn In at the Governor’s Office for the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority Board
Regent Liz Archuleta Honored
Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition Star Party Delivers!
Camp Colton Breaks Ground on New Lodge
In Remembrance of Dr. Miguel Vasquez
Fall Events
Community Resources

CCHHS Issues Warning on Unlicensed Food Vendors

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services Environmental Health has noted an increase in unlicensed food vendors throughout the County. These vendors pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness due to unsanitary conditions and should be avoided.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 2024

Voting on November 5th

The 2024 Arizona elections will take place on Tuesday, November 5, coinciding with the nationwide general election. As we’ve seen in previous elections, every vote matters, and we strongly encourage all employees and community members to exercise their right to vote.

For those working in the park, you can cast your ballot at the Shrine of the Ages, precinct #59, on Election Day. Voters registered in Coconino County have the option to vote at their designated precinct polling place or at any Vote Center available on Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and if you are in line at 7 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote.

For up-to-date information on polling locations and additional details, please visit the Coconino County Elections website at www.coconino.az.gov/elections or call 928-679-7860.

City of Flagstaff conducting inventory of water service lines; Customers with service lines with unknown material to receive notice

FLAGSTAFF — Per Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) requirements, the City has been conducting an inventory of the location and material type of all city water service lines. City customers with service lines of unknown material will receive a notice from the City of Flagstaff in early November 2024. There is a possibility that water service lines of unknown material could be made of lead or galvanized pipe that was previously connected to lead.  

The Recommended Deadline to Return Your Early Ballot by Mail Has Passed – Drop it Off

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Recorder’s Office reminds early voters that their voted ballots must be received no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day, November 5.  The recommended deadline to mail your voted early ballot has passed.  Instead, early voters should drop their ballots off in person.

As of Monday, October 28, half the early ballots issued for the General Election have not been received by the Recorder’s Office.  There is still time to get turn in your early ballot.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y celebrates successful System Change Symposium

COCONINO COUNTY — With more than 200 virtual attendees, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth celebrated its inaugural “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation on Oct. 22 and 23.

“This type of work overwhelmingly moves people to action. It inspires them toward love and care of others as we pause to view differing perspectives and to understand issues in multi-dimensional ways,” said Virginia Watahomigie, executive director of CCC&Y.

CCC&Y curated an array of speakers and topics to help our community understand what system change is, why we need it and some tools and support to improve how things are done. See information on speakers below.

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“It has been such a joy to see the positive interaction with the speakers and the material. Occasionally, it can kick up some feelings that express themselves in a wide variety of ways and some push back can be seen,” Watahomigie said. “We are committed to continuing this work and moving these initiatives forward.  At the risk of sounding like a soundbite, and paraphrasing, I remember that Maya Angelou encouraged us to do better when we know better. The trick can sometimes be the willingness to know better.”

READ MORE

City of Flagstaff awarded $5M federal grant for Amtrak Station Accessibility Project

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff has been awarded a Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Railroad Administration for $4,989,600 for the Amtrak Station Accessibility Project. The project includes reconstruction of the existing north platform and the addition of a new south platform, which will improve passenger accessibility, rail efficiency, and safety. Matching funds in the amount of $1.2M will be provided through a partnership between the City and BNSF Railway. This project will be integrated into City’s Downtown Mile Safety and Connectivity suite of projects to provide a wholistic approach to improvements along the rail corridor.

Sedona Arts Center — Don’t miss these Art Workshops!

Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!

The NAU Review — Celebrating Indigenous heritage, new research on Maya archaeology and the right way to brush your teeth come Halloween

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

A commitment to Indigenous Peoples is an important part of NAU—a priority enshrined in the university’s strategic plan. For the second consecutive year, NAU has another record-breaking attendance of Native American and Indigenous students, who represent more than 110 Native American Tribes/Nations, Alaska Native Villages and Native Hawaiian communities.

In November, NAU celebrates Native American Heritage Month, an annual event designated in 1990 as National American Indian Heritage Month. It is the time of year to come together to honor and celebrate Native American and Indigenous cultures, traditions, knowledges and protocols. NAU honors its commitment to Indigenous Peoples with a robust calendar of more than 20 events spread throughout the month, which all are welcome to attend. 

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Democracy Defense Front is Looking for Volunteers. Training on Oct. 29

I’ve recently learned of the efforts of the Democracy Defense Front (DDF) and am passing this information on to you in case you’re interesting in assisting the group. The DDF  is looking for volunteers to ensure every eligible voter can exercise their rights peacefully and successfully on election day.

Training takes place in Flagstaff on Tuesday October 29, 1:00-4:00 pm at the NAU University Union, in Havasupai C. For more information, and to register (please do so prior to Tuesday), go to this location. Food will be provided during the training.

After training, you will be paid $25/hour to work a full-day shift on election day. I’ve been told that trained volunteers from the Flagstaff area will be placed at polling locations in or near Flagstaff.

Michele James

Executive Director

Fire managers considering managing lightning-caused fire south of Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — Fire managers with the Coconino National Forest are currently monitoring a lightning-caused wildfire that was reported the morning of October 25 approximately 11 miles south of Flagstaff on the west side of Interstate 17 near the Newman Park exit.

The Smith Fire is currently 55 acres within the burn scar of the Scott Fire of 2023 and moving at a low rate of spread with no structures threatened.

Fire managers are considering this wildfire as a candidate to manage for forest health but waiting to see what the next couple of days brings in precipitation.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 10/28/24

View this email in your browser October 28th, 2024 Connect with your community Adult & All-Ages Events Book Clubs Youth Events Friends of the Library Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, please call 928-213-2331…

21st annual Celebraciones de la Gente honors vibrant tradition Oct. 26-27 at Museum of Northern Arizona

FLAGSTAFF — The 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente (Celebrations of the People) takes place Oct. 26 and 27 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the community event honors a vibrant tradition with a weekend of remembrances, joy and cultural immersion.

In the spirit of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Celebraciones invites people to experience the magic of colorful ofrendas (altars), unique tributes to loved ones passed, in the museum’s Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard. As the sun sets on Saturday, the courtyard transforms into a candlelit scene for Courtyard After Dark. Visitors can take in glowing ofrendas under the night sky while enjoying Mexican sweets and hot chocolate.

Discover Flagstaff — Celebraciones de la Gente, Museum of Northern Arizona (Oct. 26-27) and more upcoming events

Join us for a weekend filled with color, culture, and celebration. Presented in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, Celebraciones honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with heartfelt remembrances and joyful festivities. 10 a.m.

Learn More

Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 — 60-Day Public Review now open

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County invite the community to participate in the 60-day public review of the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 by reading the draft, submitting comments, and attending events from now until Thursday, Dec. 19. Visit www.flagstaff.az.gov/regionalplan2045 to read the draft, as well as information about the Plan and upcoming events.   

United Way of Northern Arizona — Nestle Purina and Joy Cone Lead the Way for United Way

Co-coordinators Robin Ayers, HR Manager, and Michelle Brown, Senior HR Coordinator, led Nestle Purina’s campaign this year with a mission of engaging employees and inspiring community support.

“When we can step up and make a difference, it is recognizable to others, which can encourage other agencies and individuals to do the same,” said Michelle. “We’re proud of our employees who are involved in community outreach.”

Nestle Purina introduced their workplace campaign during quarterly business meetings, combining informational presentations on the work of UWNA with opportunities to donate. Raffles were held for anyone completing a pledge form with additional prize opportunities for staff members who met specified donation goals.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 21-25, 2024

Honoring Heritage: Reflections on the Healing Power of Land and Community at Indigenous Peoples’ Day

“Remember these places that we are enjoying; now that they are more than just tourist destinations, more than recreational playgrounds, more than places where mining companies or helicopter companies are out there to make a buck. When you’re out on that trail and maybe take a moment think about this place as medicine and how it’s probably providing you some healing. When you look at that breathtaking view that is medicine right there…the reason why that the land can do that for us, is because that power is real, and that is all what a scared place is, recognizing that the land has power.” -David Martínez

Culture Connection AZ Events Coming Up!

Help us give our international students, workers, and residents an authentic American Halloween experience! We’ll have pumpkin carving, candy for trick-or-treaters, and costumes to dress up!
Free to participate! Join us from 4pm to 7pm at The Ice House

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Families gather information at Flagstaff Mall’s 2024 Health and Wellness Fair

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — This is the last chance to register for the Coconino Coalition of Children & Youth’s “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23.

More than 125 individuals signed up for the Oct. 22 event.

The symposium provides details on What is System Change? Why Do We Need It? How Do We Make It Happen?

“The speakers today had very relevant information. I appreciated the focus on intergenerational trauma and how systemic systems contribute to people’s trauma – this feels so relevant to Northern Arizona living on and near tribal lands and being a border state where children have been separated from parents for an extended length of time,” said Dylan Wilder of TransIntimate Online Courses. “Learning more about Vitalyst Spark Grants and the different pillars of systemic change was a critical and helpful lens for me.”

The symposium also provides information on How do we come together for true change? How do we address root cause issues and create positive outcomes, health and thriving for all?

“…The Symposium provided information which was helpful – on a macro level to educate the audience about the broad concepts surrounding Systems Change as well as on a personal level as we learned more about how we as humans experience and react to the world around us affects the way we function,” said Sandra Diehl of the Coconino County Public Defender’s Office.

The event is hosted by CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie, who will speak about the Coalition’s Reimagine Community Project — A Trauma-Informed System Change program the Coalition is partnering with the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County. CCC&Y was one of four organizations in Arizona to be selected for the Vitalyst Health Foundation’s System Change Grant

The event is free for those who live or work in Coconino County, $20 full day for all others. Register HERE for the Oct. 23 event.

READ MORE

City of Flagstaff — Winter parking restrictions begin Nov. 1

FLAGSTAFF — Winter parking restrictions in the City of Flagstaff will begin on Nov. 1 and will remain in effect until April 1. During this time, parking on city streets and alleyways is prohibited from midnight to 7 a.m.

Winter parking restrictions allow the City to thoroughly plow the streets during snow events and remains in effect even if it is not snowing to aid in street sweeping. This ordinance is enforced by the Flagstaff Police Department. Cars that are parked in violation of the ordinance when it is not snowing will receive a ticket and those parked in violation during inclement weather will receive a ticket and could be towed.

Coconino County Winter Parking Ordinance Begins Friday Nov. 1

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Winter Parking Ordinance Begins Friday Nov. 1. The ordinance, which will remain in effect through Tuesday, April 1, 2025, prohibits vehicles, trailers, and storage containers from being parked in County-maintained rights-of-way at all times during snow season.

Between Nov. 1 – April 1 of each year, vehicles, trailers, and storage containers must be kept clear of County-maintained rights-of-way both to facilitate safer snow removal operations and to help mitigate dangerous “snow play”-related traffic congestion and parking issues along County rights-of-way. Any vehicle parked in prohibited areas is subject to be cited and may be towed at the owner’s expense due to the possibility of threatening the health or welfare of County residents. 

Three Sisters and Pine Flat Rx Fire Projects Scheduled For Final Treatments This Week

WILLIAMS — Fire Managers are preparing to wrap up the 2024 fall prescribed burning season on the south zone of the Kaibab National Forest this week beginning with the 3055 acre Pine Flat Prescribed Fire Project located approximately 15 miles south of Williams, followed by the 1467 acre Fireball Unit on the Three Sisters Prescribed Fire Project located 5 miles northwest of Williams on the south side of FR 124.

The NAU Review — Announcing the Steve Sanghi College of Engineering! Plus, relive highlights from Homecoming and check out a democracy-themed exhibition at Cline Library

NAU is renaming the College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences the Steve Sanghi College of Engineering, thanks to a generous $10 million cash gift—the largest of its kind in university history—from Maria and Steve Sanghi. The gift comes at a pivotal time: Arizona has made a major commitment to growth in the semiconductor industry, and NAU is uniquely positioned to contribute, with more than 70% of grads staying in Arizona for work. Sanghi said the gift “will help ensure engineering students can participate in the workforce of the future and ultimately strengthen Arizona’s economy and communities.”

Sedona Arts Center — Sign up for these Art Workshops!

Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!

Prescribed burn southwest of Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods planned for Oct. 23

FLAGSTAFF — A prescribed burn will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department southwest of the Lynwood and Cheshire neighborhoods on Wednesday, Oct. 23. The burn will target approximately 36 acres within the Jesse Gregg RX Units. Resources on scene will include the City of Flagstaff Wildland Fire Management Module and representatives from the NAU School of Forestry.

Prescribed burns planned on Coconino National Forest this week

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to conduct two prescribed burn projects this week, beginning tomorrow.

For the latest information at any time of the day, details and updates about all prescribed burn projects can be found on the Coconino NF Prescribed Burn Projects Inciweb page, which is updated any time new information is available.

Coconino County approves proclamation ‘Celebrating and Honoring the Life of Dr. Miguel Vasquez’

Celebration of Life for Professor Emeritus Miguel Vasquez to be held on Nov. 3 at NAU

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors officially approved a proclamation on Oct. 15, 2024 “Celebrating and Honoring the Life of Dr. Miguel Vasquez,” who passed away on Sunday, Oct. 6.

“WHEREAS, Coconino County and the communities within lost a cultural leader, mentor, and teacher on October 6, 2024 with the passing of Dr. Miguel Vasquez …” according to the opening of the proclamation read by the brother of Miguel Vasquez, David Vasquez.

Community concludes 2024 Hispanic Heritage Month with variety of events

From a print making demonstration by Southern California artists visiting Flagstaff, to an Ofrenda 101 cultural education session for county employees and an information display at a local library, the community found a number of ways to celebrate the end of Hispanic Heritage Month in Coconino County.

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The HeArt Box gallery in downtown Flagstaff presented “Sendero Gráfico: Southwest Route” with Los Angeles artists Daniel González and Pável Acevedo on Oct. 15.

The artists displayed and sold a variety of their print work during the event, many which touched on Day of the Dead and the Mexican graphic art tradition. They also demonstrated their ink screen making talents, with patrons purchasing an array of clothing featuring their artwork.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Register NOW! for CCC&Y’s System Change Symposium, a virtual community experience on Oct. 22 or 23

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — With less than a week to go, the time to register is NOW! for the Coconino Coalition of Children & Youth’s “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation. Participants can choose Oct. 22 or Oct. 23 to attend the Virtual Community Experience.

The event will provide details on What is System Change? Why Do We Need It? How Do We Make It Happen?

It will also provide information on How do we come together for true change? How do we address root cause issues and create positive outcomes, health and thriving for all?

The System Change Symposium includes such presenters as:

• Kevin Campbell, an American Child Protection, Health Care Innovator and co-founder of Pale Blue with Elizabeth Wendel, MSW, LSW, will help viewers understand the human toll and outcomes of current systems and give us practical ideas for making change now.

• David Martinez III of Vitalist Health Foundation, who will talk about “What is Systems Change and Why They Fund It”

• Iya Affo, founder of Heal Historical Trauma, who will provide examples of policy, systems and inequity

• Andrea Meronuck of Northland Family Health Center and Pearl Santillan of First Things First, who will provide information on mindfulness, self compassion and/or mental health models

• Dr. Sandra Solano, founder of Integro, who will talk about HeartMath, trauma and use for systems change work

• and a message from Flagstaff Mayor, Becky Daggett

READ MORE​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 14-18, 2024

Grand Canyon Hosts Successful Indigenous People’s Day Events
On Indigenous People’s Day hundreds of people watched dance performances at two locations. On the canyon rim, in front of Hopi house Crown Dancers from the White Mountain Apache, danced as the clouds cast mood lighting on them. Participants watched as the boys performed dances intended for blessing and healing. Their crowns represented four mountains that are sacred to the Apache and each dancer called “angelic beings”, spirits who lived on the mountains, to come into the crowd.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — View Art in Person this Sunday! F3’s Native American Art Auction

This Sunday Oct. 20th is your chance to view the auction items for sale in F3’s Native American Art Auction. Many beautiful Native American rugs, baskets, pottery, jewelry, and paintings have been donated to F3 by Martha Blue and Oliver (Ollie) W. Johnson. This is an important fundraiser for F3.

All the art items can be viewed in person from 2:00-5:00 pm at Restoration Bodyworks, 222 E. Birch Ave, Suite 2, Flagstaff.

Sedona Arts Center — Don’t miss these Sedona Plein Air Festival Events!

Saturday, October 19, 10am – Noon
Main Street Paint Out
Stroll up and down Uptown Sedona on 89A, from Sedona Arts enter to the Pink Jeep Café, and watch artists paint their surroundings in real time. This event will be
judged by artist Bruce Aiken, an acclaimed Grand Canyon and American Southwest painter. Awards and artworks sale begin at 12:30 p.m. at Sedona Arts Center.

City of Flagstaff — 60-Day Public Review – Regional Plan 2045

The 60-Day Public Review for the DRAFT Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan is here, and we need your help! Your feedback on the proposed content is crucial to bringing our community’s vision to life. Your comments will directly shape the final plan and what appears on next year’s ballot. All comments from the public review period are due on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 5 pm. 

Sedona Arts Center — The BIG School Email!

Into the Night: A Nocturne Plein Air Workshop
with Krystal W. Brown
October 28–30: Monday – Wednesday

Painting nocturnes is one of Krystal’s favorite things to paint and so is giving you the tools and techniques to create successfully…no matter the time of day. You will learn from Krystal how to choose the best sight, set up, and process to paint nocturnes from life which will help you carry the last rays of the day into the night in your work. You will effectively learn how to remove the “Fear Factor” from any nighttime scene in a way that fits in with your unique creativity and skill set.

Coconino National Forest accepting applicants for Women in Wildland Fire program

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is now accepting applicants for next April’s Women in Wildland Fire training camp.

Women in Wildland Fire camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting in a supportive and educational environment.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive the beginning qualifications needed to start a career in wildfire, whether it be as a firefighter or a supporting role.

City of Flagstaff — Full closure of portion of Zuni Drive scheduled for reconstruction project

FLAGSTAFF — A full closure of Zuni Drive between Leupp Drive and Lone Tree Road will begin on Wednesday, Oct 23 for two to three weeks as part of the City’s annual Road Repair and Street Safety Program. While it was previously communicated that this project would reduce Zuni Drive to a single lane with flagging operations, it has since been updated to a full closure. During this time, motorists will need to detour around the area utilizing Lone Tree Road, JW Powell Boulevard and Lake Mary Road. Pedestrians and cyclists will need to detour through the work zone utilizing a portion of the Bow and Arrow Trail.

Coconino National Forest seeking additional public input for Red Rock Trails Access Plan Phase II

SEDONA — After input from the public, community leaders, and user groups, the Red Rock Ranger District is releasing the Red Rock Trails Access Plan Phase II for additional public comments, from Oct. 16 to Nov. 14.

The plan proposes trail enhancements, including adding approximately 31 miles of new non-motorized trails and re-routing and naturalizing other trails, within the Turkey Creek area of the Coconino National Forest. This area is located in the Village of Oak Creek in Yavapai County.

Members of the public can view the recent Scoping Letter and associated maps on the project webpage at https://tinyurl.com/RedRockAccessPhaseII.

Sedona Arts Center — THIS FRIDAY! 20th Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival

Sedona Arts Center presents the 20th Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival Nation’s top plein air painters featured in week-long event starting October 18, 2024.
 
More than 20 renowned plein air artists from across the country will capture Sedona’s extraordinary landscapes during Sedona Arts Center’s 20th Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival October 18-26, 2024. The week-long event features artist demonstrations, paint outs, juried art competitions and more.

St. Mary’s Food Bank — Help Us Make a Difference This Holiday Season – Volunteer Opportunities Available!

As the holiday season approaches, St. Mary’s Food Bank is preparing for our annual **Holiday Food Distributions** across several locations, and we need your help to make these events a success! Your support will ensure that families in our community receive the nourishment they need during this special time of year.

Prescribed burn planned on Coconino National Forest this week

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest plans to conduct the following prescribed burn project, beginning tomorrow for the next two days.

UBC 2 (Upper Beaver Creek) Project

Dates: Oct. 16-17
Location: 16 miles southeast of Munds Park, near Stoneman Lake. 
Size: 500 acres.

The NAU Review —Timber. Check out Flagstaff’s logging history, photos of NAU through the decades and our progress to carbon neutrality

‘¡Presente!’ One person’s Hispanic heritage story

Assistant professor Marco Cabrera Geserick believes Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month is a time to remember that “we are here, we have been here, we will be here.”

Sedona Arts Center announces passing of Dennis Ott

It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend and colleague, Dennis Ott. Dennis passed away peacefully at home on Saturday evening. To say that he will be missed is an understatement.

A beloved, award-winning instructor and head of our Ceramics Department for 30+ years, Dennis served on the board and was Chair two separate times. He felt so strongly about the future direction of the Arts Center that he recently rejoined the board to help as much as he could.

Dennis has been a leading and valuable contributor to the greater Sedona community, taking on Loving Bowls which provided funds to several organizations for 15 years. Dennis has touched countless lives over the years, including all of ours. Dennis has been Sedona Arts Center’s biggest cheerleader and most committed advocate. He was always there to provide a hug or words of encouragement when times were overwhelming or tough. He had a way of always making everything better.

2024 Flagstaff Festival of Science presents The Festival Fête — Ticket sale closes Oct. 21

Ticket sales will close for The Festival Fête on October 21. Please reserve your tickets today to be a part of this dynamic celebration that includes a costume party, science experience stations, auction, raffle, DJ, guest speaker, catered dinner, Photo Booth and more!

The Festival Fête takes place on the evening of Saturday, October 26th at the Coconino Center for the Arts. This benefit celebration honors 35 years of the Flagstaff Festival of Science!

This is your LAST CHANCE to purchase tickets! Don’t delay!

Coconino National Forest accepting applicants for Women in Wildland Fire program

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is now accepting applicants for next April’s Women in Wildland Fire training camp.

Women in Wildland Fire camp participants will gain a greater understanding of the challenges and responsibilities of wildland firefighting in a supportive and educational environment.

Upon completion of the program, participants will receive the beginning qualifications needed to start a career in wildfire, whether it be as a firefighter or a supporting role.

The program consists of a combination of online and field training. During online training modules, participants will learn about topics such as wildland fire behavior, firefighting strategy and safety, and the wildland fire job application process.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Bidding Begins Today for F3’s Native American Art Auction

F3’s Native American Art Auction begins online today! This is an important fundraiser for F3. Now is the time to bid on the many beautiful Native American rugs, baskets, pottery, jewelry, and paintings donated to F3 by Martha Blue and Oliver (Ollie) W. Johnson. Access the auction here: https://onlinefundraiser.events/F3NativeAmericanArtAuction.

F3 would appreciate if you would forward this email to your friends and neighbors. Thank you!

Voting Early? Be Sure to Understand Prop. 482

COCONINO COUNTY — Early voting in Coconino County began Oct. 9 and early ballots have been mailed.

Since there are many elected offices and propositions to vote on this year, remember to vote on both sides of the ballot, and find your local propositions toward the bottom of the ballot. Local ballot initiatives have the most direct impact on communities because counties, cities, and towns provide essential services like law enforcement, road maintenance, healthcare, and disaster response to residents. 

Coconino County — Early Voting Has Started for Nov. 5 General Election

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Recorder’s office has mailed over 64,800 early ballots to registered voters for the upcoming November 5 General Election.  Early voters that are on the Active Early Voting List (AEVL) and have not received their ballots by Wednesday, October 16 should call the Recorder’s Office at 928-679-7860 or 800-793-6181 to make sure there is not a problem with their voter registration status or mailing address.

Registered voters that are not on the AEVL may request an early ballot be mailed to them by calling the Recorder’s Office, sending a written request to Coconino County Recorder’s Office, 110 E. Cherry Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ, 86001, or submitting an on-line request.  The deadline to request an early ballot to be mailed to a voter is October 25. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 7-11, 2024

Fire managers from the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, who are part of the North Zone Interagency Fire Management Program, have delayed the previously planned prescribed burns on the North Kaibab Ranger District and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The timing of these operations will now depend on favorable weather conditions, resource availability, and the status of the National Preparedness Level, which is currently at Level 5.

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

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

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.

United Way of Northern Arizona is hiring

To better serve our communities and Lead the Way in improving lives in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties, United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) is hiring for three key positions.

These positions will be open until filled and the application review process for all three will begin this Monday, October 14.

We would appreciate your help in spreading the word. If you or someone you know would be a great fit for one of these roles, please check out the job details below and feel free to forward this email to potential candidates!

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

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’

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. …
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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

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.)

The NAU Review — NAU’s 100th Homecoming is around the corner! Plus, breakthroughs in hearing loss science and student-led speech disorder intervention

Get ready for NAU’s 100th Homecoming!

This year’s Homecoming festivities are set for Oct. 14-19, and that means it’s time to dust off your blue and yellow flannel and get ready for a week of nonstop fun! We’re marking this important anniversary with some of the Lumberjack community’s favorite traditions, including the Homecoming parade, the ASNAU carnival, a delicious chili cook-off and a special pre-game tailgate. Browse all these events and more, plan out your week and get pumped to celebrate a century of NAU school spirit! 

Sedona Arts Center — CALL TO ARTISTS (Updated Dates)

Application Deadline: October 11, 2024

This two-day Holiday Artist Market held December 7-8, 2024 will feature approximately 25 artists from Sedona and the surrounding towns and cities.
Who should apply: Artists and makers, 18 years and older, who create beautiful and functional works are welcome to apply, however space is limited and preference will be given to Sedona Arts Center Artist Members first to fill the limited slots.

Community invited to take part in online conversation on Oct. 11 to support health and wellbeing of Latina mothers in Flagstaff

FLAGSTAFF — The Center for Health Equity Research (CHER) at Northern Arizona University is inviting Flagstaff community members who are either Latina mothers or are individuals who have a strong connection with the Latina mother community in Flagstaff to a special conversation event.

CHER is hosting a small group discussion that will occur online through Zoom that will focus on how NAU researchers and community members can work together to better support the health and wellbeing of Latina mothers in Flagstaff. (See attached flyer.) We have reserved online space for up to 6 participants for this event.

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

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.