May 7 — 2021 Commencement Virtual Ceremony at CCC at 10:30 a.m.

The Coconino Community College 2021 Commencement Virtual Ceremony is scheduled to premiere at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 7, 2021 on the CCC homepage at www.coconino.edu and on YouTube at https://youtu.be/mJbkrOrkPFg .

Even with social distancing and stay at home orders, you can still celebrate!  You completed the hard work to get your degree or certificate so take some time to recognize your accomplishments. It might be a little more challenging than usual, but you can plan a graduation celebration that keeps everyone safe. 

May 25 — Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers / Arizona Rural Women’s Health Network to present Northern Arizona Region Town Hall

Join us for a virtual Town Hall on Tuesday, May 25 from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM Arizona MST to provide input and suggestions!

The Arizona Rural Women’s Health Network (AZRWHN) is leading a consortium addressing SUD/OUD impacting women of childbearing age in Northern Arizona, called the Northern Arizona Consortium for Rural Opioid Services for Women’s Health (NAZCROSWH) project.

Through May 25 — Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) business plan development 9-week training

The 2021 Spring Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) business plan development 9-week Zoom-based training through May 5.

Call now (928-679-7463) or send an email to sneuman@coconino.az.gov for information and/or to enroll for our Spring 2021 BBE, Zoom-based training, 6-9pm, Tuesdays, March 30th through May 25th. The class fee is only $125 and includes LivePlan writing template portal access. We also offer a need-based 50% BBE training scholarship. Also, sessions are recorded in case participants miss a class or need additional review. Please share this information with others and let me know if you have any questions. We are here for your success.

August — All are invited to join the Coconino County Diversity Council Meetings

All are invited to join the Coconino County Diversity Council Meetings in August, which aim to connect our diverse communities with their local governments.

The Councils include the African Diaspora Advisory Council, the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and the Indigenous Peoples Council. A joint meeting of the three councils is held every quarter.

Click on the image above and then click on the link to the Virtual Meeting you want to attend.

Sept. 25 — Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month/National Public Lands Day with ‘Poetry, Culture and the Outdoors with José González’

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and National Public Lands Day with an event at Lower Lake Mary Picnic Area, Lake Mary Road, Flagstaff Arizona. There is no lifeguard on duty and there is no water in this part of Lake Mary but there will be poetry, culture, barbeque, and more!

Readings@11:00am, Build Your Own Hotdog@12pm. Free entrance and parking for this event.

Sept. 25 — 2021 Sustainable Building Tour – Carbon Neutrality Strategies

This coming Saturday, September 25, the Coconino County Sustainable Building Program is hosting the 17th annual Sustainable Building Tour.

This coming Saturday, September 25, the Coconino County Sustainable Building Program is hosting the 17th annual Sustainable Building Tour, in partnership with the Flagstaff Festival of Science, Willow Bend Environmental Education Center, and the City of Flagstaff Sustainability Program.

Sept. 29 — Open house event highlights free program for property owners businesses & exciting NAIPTA project

On September 29, 2021 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County and the Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG) will hold a free open house at 216 West Phoenix Avenue.

The event, held in a former City warehouse, will highlight two items. First, the Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority’s (NAIPTA) plans for the property will be showcased, including a new Downtown Connection Center building and channelization of the Rio de Flag. 

Oct. 5 — Coconino County Board of Supervisors to hold virtual meeting

The Coconino County Board Board of Supervisors’ meeting will be held via webinar technology using Zoom. To join the webinar, please use the following url: webinar: https://zoom.us/j/92457395786 Or Telephone: Dial or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free), Webinar ID: 924 5739 5786.

The meeting can also be streamed and viewed on the County YouTube site: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=coconino+county

Oct. 11 — Coconino Community College observes Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Student Affairs is hosting an Indigenous Peoples’ Day event at Coconino Community College’s Lone Tree Campus on Monday, Oct. 11. Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors Indigenous peoples and recognizes their cultures and histories. During this year’s observance at CCC, the College’s Land Acknowledgement Statement will be the focus of attention.

Oct. 15 — ASU Latin American Studies to present via Zoom ‘Surviving Mexico — Resistance and Resilience Among Journalists in the Twenty-First Century

ASU Latin American Studies will present via Zoom “Surviving Mexico — Resistance and Resilience Among Journalists in the Twenty-First Century” with Dr. Celeste González de Bustamante (University of Arizona) and Dr. Jeanine Relly (University of Arizona) from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15.

Oct. 18 — NAU College of Social and Behavioral Sciences to present ‘Policing the Borders of Citizenship’

NAU College of Social and Behavioral Sciences to present “Policing the Borders of Citizenship” with Jennifer M. Chacón is a Professor of Law at the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law from 4:30 to 6 p.m. MST via Zoom on Monday, Oct. 18.

Chacón is the coauthor of the immigration law textbook Immigration Law and Social Justice and has written numerous articles, book chapters and essays on immigration, criminal law, constitutional law, and citizenship issues. Professor Chacón is the immediate past Chair of the American Association of Law School’s Section on Immigration and a member of the American Law Institute. She holds a J.D. from Yale Law School and an A.B. in International Relations from Stanford University. 

Oct. 20 — Please join us for a Viola Awards Community Meeting

Dear supporter of Creative Flagstaff,
I would like to invite you to join our upcoming Viola Awards Community Meeting on Wednesday, October 20th at the Coconino Center for the Arts. I hope you will be able to join us.

This round table meeting will brainstorm how to continue to evolve the Viola Awards, which will begin accepting nominations in late November for the 14th annual event. The strategic plan unveiled at this year’s event, in June, further prioritizes equity within Creative Flagstaff’s programs, to celebrate creativity in all its forms, and to continue to build recognition within and beyond Flagstaff. It is through these lenses and more that we hope to have a lively discussion about how the Viola Awards will serve our community for another 10+ years. …

While we welcome everyone to attend this meeting, please note that an RSVP is requested and can be done here. Additionally, in accordance with the Coconino Center for the Arts Covid policy, attendees must present either their vaccination card OR a negative covid test from within 72 hours of the event, and photo identification upon their arrival. To see the Coconino Center for the Arts’ full Covid policy click here.

Oct. 20 — NAU’s Climate Science and Solutions program hosting virtual Flagstaff Climate Resilience Forum

Graduate students from NAU’s Climate Science and Solutions program are hosting a virtual Flagstaff Climate Resilience Forum on Wednesday, October 20th, from 4:00-6:00 PM to discuss local climate resilience.

Recent flooding events and wildfires have brought increased attention to the climate threats that currently and will continue to impact our community. The students will explore and consolidate Flagstaff’s various climate plans and documents to create a centralized resource for both the City and community to access important information, data, projections, and plans focused on how we will prepare for the impacts of climate change. 

Nov. 14 — NAU Wind Symphony to present ‘Escenas,’ with guest conductor Luis Sánchez

Please join us on Sunday, Nov. 14 at 3 p.m. in Ardrey Memorial Auditorium for a special concert featuring renowned conductor, Luis Sánchez, and the NAU Wind Symphony. Titled “Escenas,” this concert celebrates folk music with works by Arturo Márquez and Silvestre Revueltas as well as a special performance by Flagstaff’s ownBallet Folklórico de Colores on Pablo Moncayo’s Huapango.

Through Nov. 16 — 2021 Fall 9-Week Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) training

Coconino County’s next Building Businesses & Entrepreneurs (BBE) business plan development Zoom (and Classroom, assuming the pandemic doesn’t worsen) -based training will run 6-9pm, Tuesdays for 9-week through Nov. 16. If you are eligible, our Individual Development Accounts (IDA) match saving grant opportunity is also available.  This email has information, below and attached, on the benefits of each program and how to sign-up.

Nov. 17 — City of Flagstaff to hold public hearings on the carbon neutrality amendment to the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2030

The City of Flagstaff Planning and Zoning Commission will hold two public hearings to review a major amendment to the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2030. The proposed amendment will update the Plan’s climate action goals and policies to align with the Flagstaff Carbon Neutrality Plan.

Nov. 18 — NAU Latin American Studies will present a poetry reading by Todd Miller from his latest book ‘Build Bridges not Walls: A Journey to a World without Borders’

NAU Latin American Studies will present a poetry reading by Todd Miller from his latest book “Build Bridges not Walls: A Journey to a World without Borders” (City Lights: 2021) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18 in LA120.

This reading is co-sponsored by Criminology and Criminal Justice, Comparative Cultural Studies, Global Languages and Cultures, and the NAU student club–No más muertes.

Nov. 20 — Do you have a household item in need of repair? Fix it for free at the Fix-it Clinic!

The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office is hosting a Fix-it Clinic on Saturday, November 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center, located at 245 N. Thorpe Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

Volunteers will be fixing small household appliances, clothing, electronics, jewelry, bicycles and more. Appointments for fixes will be given priority, but walk-ins are welcome. Make an appointment online at https://www.signupgenius.com/go/60b0a4daaac23a3f49-fixit. Please note that masks are required of all attendees.

Nov. 23 — City hosts presentation in celebration of Native American Heritage Month

The City of Flagstaff, Office of Indigenous Initiatives presents Darius L. Smith, Director, City and County of Denver Anti-Discrimination Office; Liaison, Denver American Indian Commission for a presentation entitled “Peacemaking and Communicating Ethically Through a Native Lens, Connecting Past Present Future”. 

The presetnation will be held on November 23, 2021 from 11:00a.m. – 12:30 p.m. MST.

Dec. 3 — Fall 2021 Charlas Con Café via Zoom: ‘Southern Cone Exiles in Cuba, 1972-1990’

Join us for our last charla of the semester on Friday, December 3rd, 1-2pm! Tune in for a talk by Dr. Tanya Harmer (The London School of Economics and Political Science)

This talk, via Zoom, examines the refuge and solidarity revolutionary Cuba offered left-wing exiles from Chile and Uruguay in the 70s and 80s. Fleeing dictatorial rule at the height of the Cold War in Latin America, thousands arrived in Cuba in the years after 1972.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y provides variety options to help families in the coming year

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

To assist families in the coming year, CCC&Y will continue to support and expand a variety of programs we have initiated in 2020 with the assistance of a variety of partners in the region and statewide. They include:

The CCC&Y Family Connection, hosted every Monday from 2:30-3:30. The bilingual Zoom meeting is is a great way to connect with others countywide. Folks can join virtually or by phone. 

The meeting is open to parents, caregivers, professionals — All individuals in our community.

A variety of resources are also available for families and local professionals who work with families on CCC&Ys Prevention Webpage.

City of Flagstaff announces Treecycling Program

The city of Flagstaff has a Treecyling program to address the issue of Christmas trees sent to the landfill. Residents with curbside trash service can place their tree curbside by 6 a.m. on Jan. 4. The city’s Solid Waste Section will pick up trees throughout the city through Jan. 8. All tinsel, lights and ornaments need to be removed before the tree is placed on the curb.

Residents living in multifamily housing can also participate by bringing their trees to one of the following locations until Jan. 17:

Old Public Works Yard: 419 N. Mogollon St.
Continental Little League Field: 5700 E. Old Walnut Canyon Rd.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Looking Forward to 2021

Happy New Year’s Eve!

I wanted to first and foremost send you well wishes for the New Year. It’s my hope that 2021 brings you and yours much happiness and good health.

I also wanted to take a moment to provide you with an update on the United Way of Northern Arizona’s annual campaign and our plans for the coming year.

For most of 2020, we focused on mitigating the economic impact of Covid-19. That work will continue because even with the vaccine rollouts, we are still facing the often devastating consequences of the pandemic in our communities.

Modified Hours at Fort Tuthill COVID-19 Testing Site for New Year’s Holiday

The COVID-19 testing site at Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff will operate on a modified schedule for the upcoming New Year’s holiday. The hours are as follows:

Monday, Dec. 28-Wednesday, Dec. 30: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 31 & Friday, Jan. 1: Closed
Saturday, Jan. 2: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.: Saliva testing only 
Appointments are required for COVID-19 saliva tests, administered by Arizona State University (ASU), at Fort Tuthill. Those who do not have an appointment will be asked to pull over at the site and make one. If all appointment times are full, individuals will be asked to return another day. Register at: coconino.az.gov/covid19

Flagstaff Arts Council — Celebrate the end of 2020 by submitting a Viola Awards Nomination – before it’s too late! 

2020 is almost over! Though this has been an unpredictable year we know that our creative community stepped up to the plate. We are looking forward to celebrating the accomplishments of 2020 at The Viola Awards on Friday, June 18, 2021, but to do that we need to hear from you! The Viola Awards depend on nominations from our community. The deadline to submit your nominations in Thursday, December 31, 2020.

Deputy County Attorney Brian Furuya Appointed to Arizona Court of Appeals

Gov. Doug Ducey recently named Coconino County Deputy County Attorney Brian Furuya to the Arizona Court of Appeals, Division I.

Furuya joined the Coconino County Attorney’s Office as Deputy County Attorney in January of 2016. During his time with the County, Furuya was responsible for health code enforcement litigation and zoning, among others.

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

Sedona Arts Center — Happy Holidays From our Family to Yours

Here at Sedona Arts Center we just wanted to say thank you for your commitment to our local nonprofit and all that we do. This holiday season is unlike any other, ending a year unlike any other. As we move into a new and better year, we wish you moments of peace amid the difficulties, connections with family and friends even if they can’t be in person, the warmth of memories from holidays past, and hope for a better future.

Thanks to our amazing members, supporters, and fantastic patrons like you, we have been able to continue sharing art and arts education throughout these challenging times, and we thank you. 

May you have a wonderful holiday season
and a safe and happy new year!

Utility Assistance in Arizona — Preventing Utility Shut-Offs

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, various cities and companies suspended utility shut-offs in an effort to help struggling residents. Now, as shut-offs are beginning to resume, residents are being encouraged to seek financial assistance or work with their utility company to develop a payment plan if they are unable to pay their bills.

Contact your utility company as soon as possible if you anticipate being unable to pay your bill for any reason. Your utility company will walk you through available assistance options such as setting up a payment plan, applying to one of their programs, or applying for aid through a local agency.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Members of CCC&Y want to wish you a beautiful holiday season, but be aware of additional stresses facing family members and neighbors

In a new Public Service Announcement released this week, members of CCC&Y want to wish you a beautiful holiday season, but also be aware the additional challenges facing family members and neighbors this year.

“The holiday season is about joy, peace, giving and gratitude, but not everyone feels the magic. This year COVID fatigue can add stress already brought on by colder weather, shorter days or grief and loss.”

Dan Musselman named Police Chief

The city of Flagstaff has named Dan Musselman as the new Police Chief. Musselman participated in an open, competitive and thorough recruitment process that attracted 35 candidates.

“This was a very competitive recruitment process, with qualified candidates from across the country,” said City Manager Greg Clifton. “I want to thank everyone who applied and offer my congratulations to Chief Musselman.”

City of Flagstaff Holiday Closures

Flagstaff city administrative functions will be closed at noon on Dec. 24, all-day Dec. 25, 2020 and Jan. 1, 2021 for the Christmas and New Year holidays.

The Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library will only be open from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Dec. 24. (East Flagstaff Community Library will be closed on Dec. 24). Both libraries will be closed on Dec. 25, Dec. 26 and Jan. 1. They will resume curbside hold pickup, phone reference services, and computer reservations on Dec. 28 and Jan. 4 after each holiday. 

Take steps during the holidays to prevent the spread of COVID-19

The holidays usually are a time to spend with loved ones celebrating family traditions. As cases of COVID-19 continue at an upward trajectory in Coconino County and many locations across the country, the holidays will require extra safety precautions.

Gatherings with family and friends outside of your household can increase the chances of getting or spreading COVID-19 or the flu. Celebrating virtually or with members of the same household who are consistently taking measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 poses the lowest risk for spread. Travel also increases the chance of getting and spreading the coronavirus. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others.

Repairs to roundabouts near Flagstaff airport set for Dec. 23

The Arizona Department of Transportation is advising drivers to plan for early morning travel delays on Wednesday, Dec. 23, as crews make repairs to two roundabouts on J.W. Powell Boulevard just west of the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport.

ADOT reminds drivers to slow down and use caution around construction personnel and equipment while the following restrictions are in place:

Coconino County Offices Closed for Winter Holidays

All Coconino County administrative offices will be closed Friday, Dec. 25, and Friday, Jan. 1, for the Christmas and New Year Holidays.

While the administrative offices at the Sheriff’s Office will be closed, Dispatch, Patrol and Detention will be open. Records will be open on Thursday, Dec. 24 from 8 a.m. until noon, closed on Friday Dec. 25 and open on Friday, Jan. 1 from 8 a.m.  – 4 p.m., with limited staffing. Please dial 9-1-1 for emergencies. For non-emergencies, dial 928-774-4523 to connect with the non-emergency Dispatch number or to leave a message for one of the administrative offices. 

Sedona Arts Center — Winter Workshop Sale! 10% Off 2021 Workshops and more news

Art Workshops make a great gift to yourself… or others!

*Get 10% off all scheduled workshops when you pay in full at the time of registration. Use coupon code: 10WINTER2020 valid only for registrations between December 16, 2020 and January 6, 2021. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax.

Below are a few more select workshops to represent the diversity of our workshop program – see all the offerings on our website HERE.

Coconino County Announces Appointment of Wes Dison as Emergency Management Director

Coconino County has appointed Wes Dison as Emergency Management Director, pending expected confirmation by the Board of Supervisors at their January 5th meeting.

“Wes has served as the Interim Emergency Management Director for more than six months. He joined us at the beginning of one of the largest emergencies this County has experienced and has served as an integral member of the COVID-19 Incident Command Team. Wes brings the skills, experience and commitment to excellence that equip him to help the County and our partners succeed,” said County Manager James Jayne.

NAU News — NAU partners with Mexican university to offer students a cross-cultural entrepreneurial experience and more news

A grant from 100,000 Strong in the Americas will give a dozen Northern Arizona University the opportunity for a unique cross-cultural learning experience with peers at both NAU and a university in Sonora, Mexico.

NAU is partnering with Universidad de Sonora (UNISON) in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico to put on The Big IDEA (La Gran IDEA), which will allow 12 students from each university to collaborate on finding solutions to challenges of food security and financial security in the Arizona/Sonora Megaregion. It is based on Jacks Big IDEA, which is put on by boundaryless@nau.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Seasons Greetings and Merry Christmas, District 2!

I want to thank you all for your continued support during this not-so-normal year. I know that 2020 threw us all a curveball, but I am grateful to each of you for doing your part in keeping our community safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thank you for your community spirit during this time.
As we move forward this holiday season, I want to wish you and your family’s a happy holiday! May each of you stay safe, create new memories, and find peace as we move into the New Year.

This will be the last newsletter of the year, however, you can continue to find information from the County and about COVID-19 on our website at https://coconino.az.gov OR by following us on social media here: www.facebook.com/CoconinoCounty.

Applicants sought from Coconino Community College District #3 for Governing Board Seat

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Tommy Lewis is seeking applicants for appointment for Coconino Community College District #3.

Applicants must be Arizona registered voters and residents of the school district for at least one year prior to the date of appointment.   Applicants or their spouses cannot be an employee of the district.

Application information:

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Winter Recreation Update and Flagstaff Snow Park

Flagstaff Snow Park’s opening day is Friday, December 18. Tickets are generally available 2-5 days in advance. Flagstaff Snow Park tickets will only be available online this season, capacity will be limited to 50% of normal, and face coverings and a temperature check are required before entering. For more information and to buy tickets, visit https://www.flagstaffsnowpark.com

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — 2020 in Review

There’s no doubt that 2020 was a year like no other. Despite massive uncertainty caused by the pandemic, our local businesses adapted as best they could, changing operation models, providing curbside services, shifting online where possible and constantly pivoting to match conditions on the ground.

They were supported by highly responsive local and state governments that strove to balance public safety with economic survival.

Based on inquiries received by ECoNA this year, many were looking beyond the current pandemic to a possible future in northern Arizona. We received more than 50 inquiries from companies looking to start or relocate a business here. Together, these companies have the potential of bringing more than 14,000 jobs to the area.

Flagstaff Arts Council — Only 2 Weeks Left to Send in your Viola Awards Nominations! 

2020 is almost over! Though this has been an unpredictable year we know that our creative community stepped up to the plate. We are looking forward to celebrating the accomplishments of 2020 at The Viola Awards on Friday, June 18, 2021, but to do that we need to hear from you! The Viola Awards depend on nominations from our community. The deadline to submit your nominations in Thursday, December 31, 2020.

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

Coconino County Prepares to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine

The Coconino County COVID-19 Response Team is planning for the arrival of the first COVID-19 vaccine shipment, expected to be delivered in late December. The vaccine roll out in Coconino County is anticipated to begin in early January.

On December 11, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued the first emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine. The Moderna application for EUA for its COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be reviewed soon.  

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Connections Spotlight — CCC&Y: Igniting Collective Action

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Many in our community face staggering injustices. Mental, physical, and spiritual trauma are facts of everyday life, made worse by historical oppression and generational poverty. The systems that should provide relief are often ineffectual and overwhelmed; at their worst, they’re racist and demeaning. And in our largely rural community, issues like food inequity, education access, and healthcare provision are exacerbated by structures of power that often look past folks outside metro areas.

We have the power to reverse these injustices, and we are doing so right here in Coconino County. When we approach challenges with a holistic mindset and consider the impact of systemic, generational trauma, we can work with communities at the source of the issue, not just at the symptom. 

Coconino Community College — A quick word from the President and other news

The fall semester has come to a close, and the holiday season is upon us.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way Coconino Community College connects with students to help them realize their educational goals, we have, as our students have, risen to the challenge. This is a time of great uncertainty – for our students, for our faculty and staff at CCC, and for everybody across the country – and we are committed, with absolute certainty, to be here for all who need an education.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Pulling Together for PPE

When things feel like they are falling apart, we pull together. We forge partnerships and put aside the bureaucracies and red tape so we can make an impact fast.

Nowhere has this need for collaboration been more evident than during our COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve told you a lot about how we’ve forwarded your gifts to the agencies through our COVID-19 Fund, but today we wanted to talk about some partnerships that are making it easier to get PPE to groups here in northern Arizona.

The Coconino County Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and the United Way of Northern Arizona have been working with our state VOAD organization and Phoenix-based partners like the Valley of the Sun United Way and Phoenix ToolBank to secure masks, gowns, hand sanitizer and other supplies for northern Arizona organizations.

Sedona Arts Center — Winter Workshop Sale! 10% Off 2021 Workshops

Art Workshops make a great gift to yourself… or others!

*Get 10% off all scheduled workshops when you pay in full at the time of registration. Use coupon code: 10WINTER2020 valid only for registrations between December 16, 2020 and January 6, 2021. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax.

Below are a few select workshops to represent the diversity of our workshop program see all the offerings on our website HERE.

See language in a new way at CCC

Coconino Community College graduate April Winters is at Northern Arizona University studying to be an English teacher.

While at CCC, she took American Sign Language courses to fulfill her foreign language requirements for her degree.

“The Deaf community is a smaller community,” Winters said. “And there is a need that isn’t always filled, especially in public schools.”

Forest Restoration Project Finishes on Bill Williams Mountain

Operations are ending on the first phase of steep slope treatment on the Bill Williams Mountain Restoration Project.

The Bill Williams Steep Slope 1 Project successfully thinned 300 acres of dense standing trees and removed dead and down trees on the mountain located just outside of the City of Williams utilizing ground-based, helicopter and hand thinning operations.

Maintenance Tech training begins Jan. 25 at CCC

On any given day, they could be fixing a broken faucet, or a heater that has gone out. Or, they could be repairing a broken window, or fixing a dishwasher on the fritz.

Maintenance Technicians for apartments, hotels and other commercial properties are continually in demand in northern Arizona, and Coconino Community College is offering a course, beginning Jan. 25, in Certified Maintenance Technician to help get people quickly into the workforce.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler — Warmest Thoughts and Best Wishes for a Wonderful Holiday and a Very Happy New Year

Greetings!

I am so thankful to serve Coconino County District 5 for another 4 years. My work for all citizens has been the greatest honor and joy in my life. Thank you to all District 5 citizens for re-electing me to the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. I am so excited for new opportunities and possibilities of the next 4 years. In this season of change and transition, I ask you to take care of your mental and physical well-being. Please stay vigilant and safe this holiday season.

Lena

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

F3 Communication — Snowbowl and Other Community Updates

Dear Friends of F3,

As executive Director of F3, I plan to use these Communications to keep you informed of trending issues of importance to our membership. Sometimes decisions that affect us have been made years ago. My goal is to get us engaged in the important conversations before decisions are made, and in this way, ensure that F3 can have a proactive presence in the community.

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — 10 Public Health Strategies to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19

The Coconino County Health and Human Services has issued a new weekly report entitled COVID-19 Coconino County Weekly Update.

The report is updated weekly on FRIDAY and includes a COVID-19 situation summary, key takeaways, demographic and geographic information, hospitalizations and testing data related to Coconino County residents.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community

At Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, we’re working towards a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. We’ll make that vision a reality by igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Many in our community face staggering injustices. Mental, physical, and spiritual trauma are facts of everyday life, made worse by historical oppression and generational poverty. The systems that should provide relief are often ineffectual and overwhelmed; at their worst, they’re racist and demeaning. And in our largely rural community, issues like food inequity, education access, and healthcare provision are exacerbated by structures of power that often look past folks outside metro areas.

We have the power to reverse these injustices, and we are doing so right here in Coconino County. When we approach challenges with a holistic mindset and consider the impact of systemic, generational trauma, we can work with communities at the source of the issue, not just at the symptom.

City of Flagstaff declares a Housing Emergency

The Flagstaff City Council declared a Housing Emergency at their meeting on Dec. 2, 2020 with the passage of Resolution 2020-66. The declaration recognizes the need to make housing a leading priority within city operations and the community. Mayor Coral Evans said, “Flagstaff has simply become used to living with this housing crisis and because of that, our community does not recognize how dire the current the conditions are for our community members.”  

CCC begins automotive program this spring

The conversation is the same among auto dealerships locally and across the country: Where do we find trained technicians?

“There’s a ridiculous shortage of technicians,” said Mimi Vessey, parts and service director for Findlay Honda of Flagstaff.

Jacob Lundie, general manager for Findlay Honda, added, “We’re in meetings often, and we talk about, ‘where are we finding technicians?’”

In order to meet a gap in trained automotive technicians locally and throughout the nation, Coconino Community College has partnered with Findlay Honda of Flagstaff to create an Automotive Technician program, and it’s scheduled to begin this spring semester.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Tonight’s the Night!

We are looking forward to this evening’s premier of The Library That Dolly Built, a documentary about how the Dolly Parton Imagination Library started as an effort to honor her father and grew into one of the largest non-governmental literacy programs in the world.

The film, being streamed on Facebook, will be followed by a live Q&A session with Dolly Parton. (We hear she might even sing a song.)

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Governor Ducey Order & Grants Promoting More Outdoor Dining

Governor Ducey has announced an executive order designed to allow restaurants to more easily expand outdoor dining facilities as leaders look for ways to help an industry hit hard by COVID-19.

The move, which reduces regulatory hurdles, has been paired with $1 million in grants to help eateries purchase barriers, heaters and outdoor furniture to convert open areas into dining spaces. The spaces do not have to be physically connected to the restaurant, but must be within 60 feet of the dining establishment.

The state began accepting applications for the grants yesterday. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis and will undergo a peer review process to ensure all documentation is submitted and verified. The deadline for applications is January 8, 2021.

Sedona Arts Center — Free Art Event and New Online Workshops

“Thru an Artist’s Eyes”
Join us for the John Henry Waddell Virtual Tour
December 16 at 5:00pm MST

Come join us for a rare opportunity to explore several works by artist John Henry Waddell through the lens of his partner in life and art, artist Ruth Holland Waddell.  We each have our own ways of looking at the world and at art, Ruth will provide us with tools to deepen our experience when looking at a work of art. 

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Virtual Recognition Celebration for Supervisor Art Babbott and Supervisor Jim Parks

Join the virtual Board of Supervisors Meeting on December 8 at 5:00 PM for a special celebration honoring Supervisor Art Babbott and Supervisor Jim Parks. We will thank them for their contributions to the County and wish them well as they continue their journey of service to the community.

10 Flagstaff Winter Awareness Tips: Know Before You Go

Designated as Arizona’s winter wonderland, Flagstaff accumulates an average of 100 inches of snow annually to partake in a multitude of winter activities. Please stay, play, social distance, and mask while visiting and adhere to required CDC healthcare travel guidelines, business recommendations and varied hours.  

Travel safely and know before you go to Flagstaff with these top ten winter awareness tips:  

Flagstaff seeks community input on Dec. 9 in search for new Police Chief

The community is invited to participate in the selection of the Flagstaff Police Department’s next Police Chief at an upcoming meet and greet. The public meet and greet is scheduled for Dec. 9, 2020 at 5 p.m. and will held via Microsoft Teams.

The meet and greet will begin with each of the three candidates providing an introduction about themselves including their previous education and experience and how it relates to the Police Chief position. After all introductions have been completed, participants in the meeting will have an opportunity to submit questions for the Police Chief candidates to answer. 

Apprenticeship leads to college credits at CCC

Once Corbin Felsted returned home to Flagstaff after a church mission, he knew he wanted to work with his hands.

“I thought electrician would be great, but nobody would hire me because I didn’t have experience,” Felsted said.

Finally, a local electrical company put him through an apprenticeship program – a grueling process of trade school, homework every night and working 40 hours a week. He finished a four-year program in two years, and he set his sights on college.

Canceling the Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year Awards Event

Each year, the Coconino County Superintendent of Schools office holds a Teacher of the Year, Rookie Teacher of the Year and Ambassadors for Excellence Awards Event, but due to COVID-19, the 2020-2021 event will not be held. The School Superintendent’s Office hopes to continue the annual tradition in the future.   

City of Flagstaff Adopts High Occupancy Housing Zoning Code Text Amendment

The Flagstaff City Council adopted the High Occupancy Housing (HOH) Zoning Code Text Amendment at their meeting on Nov. 17, 2020. Effective on March 1, 2021, the adopted amendment is the first Zoning Code Text Amendment to implement the HOH Specific Plan.  This amendment impacts most residential and mixed-use (residential and non-residential) developments by regulating the number of bedrooms and the number of dwelling units that are allowed with and without obtaining separate approval (a Conditional Use Permit) from the city. Developments that are required to obtain Conditional Use Permit will be considered a HOH Development or Mixed-use HOH Development.

ECoNA Moonshot ‘Makers & Shakers’ Celebrates Entrepreneurs

Moonshot at NACET, the entrepreneurship program based in northern Arizona, is celebrating the spirit of startups during its inaugural Makers & Shakers Week, a series of online workshops, presentations and live Q&A’s with entrepreneurs.

The free week-long virtual event honors current businesses and showcases Moonshot innovators, mentors and instructors. The goal is to educate and inspire viewers who might be considering starting their own businesses, according to Moonshot President & CEO Scott Hathcock.

Discover Flagstaff — Find virtual events with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. It is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights. For a complete printable pdf list of events click below.

United Way of Northern Arizona — The Most Important Thing She’s Ever Done

Dolly Parton, simply put, is a legend. An icon. A cultural touchstone. She’s had phenomenal commercial and critical success. She’s earned an “EGOT,” winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony. Her career spans a half century and she’s still going strong. Not bad for a kid born in a one-room cabin in the mountains of east Tennessee.

But before he passed away, her father told her that probably the most important thing she’s ever done was to start her “Imagination Library.”

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Connections Spotlight — Express Yourself!

This pandemic is challenging for all of us. CCC&Y has a weekly virtual meeting for parents and caregivers to connect and share resources. We are also launching “Creativity Calling,” specifically for youth! This monthly virtual opportunity will provide youth a chance to share their thoughts and feelings through the arts. Any youth interested in sharing their music, visual art, poetry, dance, or theater can text Hunter RedDay at 928.221.3688 to register. Each month four youth will have a 10-minute spotlight. Special thank you to our partner Stronger As One for providing a gift card to a local business. We will enter each month’s performers in a raffle for the gift card!

District 2 Supervisor Liz Archuleta — Adopt a Senior Project

Coconino County Health and Human Services assists many home bound seniors. Please help to make their holidays brighter by providing these households with holiday gifts such as grocery stores and gas gift cards, electric throws, slipper socks and various other items personalized to the senior.

A gift tree is available at the Tourist Home All Day Café at 52 S. San Francisco, Flagstaff from November 30 through December 18. This holiday tree has information cards on it for the taking with information regarding the seniors in need. Take a ticket or contact CCHHS at mbentzen@coconino.az.gov to receive a virtual “senior gift tag.”

After receiving your tag, print it out and attach it to the unwrapped gift(s). Drop off your gifts at Tourist Home or contact mbentzen@coconino.az.gov or robegay@coconino.az.gov to coordinate a gift drop off.

All gifts must be received by December 18, 2020 to ensure time for delivery to our Seniors. All gifts are tax deductible and receipts available.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Flagstaff Arts Council — Holiday Happenings with FAC & CCA!

The Flagstaff Arts Council is excited to announce our Winter Holiday Auction! This auction features artwork from local artists, gifts from local restaurants, post-pandemic travel packages, and more! This is the perfect place to do some holiday shopping while supporting the Flagstaff Arts Council’s mission to foster creativity in Flagstaff. The proceeds from the sale of most of the artwork included in the auction will be shared between the Flagstaff Arts Council and the artist with each party receiving 50% of the proceeds.