ECoNA — COVID-19 Bulletin #3: Gov. Ducey Town Hall Tonight

As government response to the coronavirus outbreak increases, there’s news to report on many levels that affects northern Arizonans and our business community, so let’s dive in.

#1. Gov. Doug Ducey hosts virtual Town Hall this evening. More than 50 television and radio stations will air the event without commercials starting at 6 p.m. Joining the governor will be Arizona Department of Health Services Director Dr. Cara Christ and Arizona National Guard Major General Michael McGuire. There will be no audience, but viewers can submit questions by contacting their local station.

#2. Grand Canyon closes. Late yesterday afternoon, the National Park Service announced it was closing the landmark after receiving a letter from Coconino County Health and Human Services, which said that keeping the park open would put employees, residents and tourists at risk. It had been reported earlier this week that one resident who works for a Grand Canyon concessionaire tested positive for COVID-19 this week. 

#3. Senate offers small businesses comprehensive guide to CARES Act. The $2.2 trillion relief act passed and signed into law last week has a lot of moving parts, and the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship’s guide can steer business owners to the right funding source. Clear and very readable, it is the perfect starting point if you are struggling to get started. Access it here.

#4. Help for nonprofits. Our shelters, food banks and other vital services provided in the nonprofit sector are being stretched thin on two fronts during this outbreak: more people need them, but fewer are able to donate in this time of economic insecurity. Both the United Way of Northern Arizona and the Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff have announced COVID-19 funds to help. 

#5. Finally, Stronger as One reminds us that we may be apart, but we don’t have to be alone. The coalition based in Coconino County that promotes a culture of knowledge, compassion and action for mental health and wellbeing has a list of resources that can help during this difficult time. 

Stay safe,

Gail Jackson

Interim President & CEO
Economic Collaborative
of Northern Arizona