Quickreads for 7/23/08

'Cultivating Unity for Mother Earth' Indigenous youth summit

The 2008 "Cultivating Unity for Mother Earth" Indigenous Youth Summit will be held July 29-31 at the Hopi Veteran's Memorial Center. This free event is open to all ages of participants from Indigenous nations across the Southwest. The workshops and sessions will vary in topic and levels of experience. A registration packet form is required.

The three-day event will include workshops and presentations on climate change, straw bale building, Hopi traditional plant knowledge, Hopi herbal remedies, plant walks, expression through art, media, music, and videography, sheep butchering, wool working, dye making, Brazilian capoeira workshops, Hopi/Mayan connection presentation, diabetes prevention/awareness, and much more.

On July 31, a basketball tournament and traditional Hopi community dinner will be held for participants and families, along with a concert by DJ KISS and Casper and The Mighty 602 Band. The concert is open to the public and there is a suggested donation of $5 to help cover costs.

For more information, contact Somana Yaiva at (928) 221-6435 or e-mail somana@4went.com. Registration packets can be downloaded at www.nativemovement.org or www.blackmesawatercoalition.org.

For information about the concert or to buy a booth at the concert, contact Gabriel Yaiva at (928) 699-9601 or e-mail yaiva@4went.com.

Coconino County Inter-Tribal Advisory Council to meet in Tuba City Aug 4

The Coconino County Inter-Tribal Advisory Council (ITAC) will hold its next meeting in Tuba City on Monday, Aug. 4 at 4 p.m. at the Louise Yellowman County Park.

In light of the recent vandalism at the park, ITAC will host and facilitate this public meeting to address this issue. Community members and others interested in resolving this County and community issue are invited to attend. We hope to find solutions and would like to enlist the community to help identify and nourish viable solutions.

For more information, contact Chairperson Holly Figueroa at (928) 814-2363, or Vice-Chair Dexter Albert at (928) 814-8221.

Shootout in the Pines youth basketball tournament

The "Shootout in the Pines" youth basketball tournament hosted by the Flagstaff Hoops is scheduled for Aug. 1-3 at Sinagua High School and the Flagstaff Recreation Center. Boys and girls teams from 9u through 14u and high school are eligible to participate. The entry fee is $250 per team.

Trophies and awards (hoodies, long-sleeve and T-shirts) will be given to first, second and third place winners, plus all-tourney awards and 3-point competition.

Games will be played following AAU rules with two coaches and 12 players per team. Birth certificates are needed for all players.

For more information, visit www.flagstaffhoops.com, e-mail flaghoopstournament@gmail.com, or call (928) 266-6438, (928) 225-0415 or (928) 853-1683.

2008 'Cultivating Unity for Mother Earth' Indigenous youth summit

The 2008 "Cultivating Unity for Mother Earth" Indigenous Youth Summit will be held July 29-31 at the Hopi Veteran's Memorial Center. This free event is open to all ages of participants from Indigenous nations across the Southwest. The workshops and sessions will vary in topic and levels of experience. A registration packet form is required.

The three day event will include workshops and presentations on climate change, straw bale building, Hopi traditional plant knowledge, Hopi herbal remedies, plant walks, expression through art, media, music, and videography, sheep butchering, wool working, dye making, Brazilian capoeira workshops, Hopi/Mayan connection presentation, diabetes prevention/awareness, and much more.

On July 31, a basketball tournament and traditional Hopi community dinner will be held for participants and families, along with a concert with music by DJ KISS and Casper and The Mighty 602 Band. The concert is open to the public and there is a suggested donation of $5 to help cover the cost of the event.

For more information, contact Somana Yaiva at (928) 221-6435 or e-mail somana@4went.com, Registration packets can also be downloaded at www.nativemovement.org or www.blackmesawatercoalition.org.

For information about the concert or to buy a booth at the concert, contact Gabriel Yaiva at (928) 699-9601 or e-mail yaiva@4went.com.

2009 UNITY Pow Wow

The 2009 "UNITY Pow Wow" is scheduled April 10-11, 2009 at the Navajo Village Heritage Center in Page, AZ. Host Staff includes: northern host drum, Elk Soldier from Marty, SD; southern host drum, Bad Medicine from Carnegie, OK; master of ceremonies, Tom Phillips, arena director, Rick Yazzie; head gourd dancer, Steve Toya Sr.; head lady dancer, Joanne Soldier; and head man dancer, Norman Largo. Sound System will be provided by David Begaye. Everyone is welcome to attend. Any and all support is greatly appreciated. More information can be found by visiting www.myspace.com/pageazunitypowwow or by calling Merle Begay at (928) 640-3137.

Free weekly addiction recovery classes offered

Classes patterned after the 12-step AA program for addiction recovery are being offered weekly in Ganado at the LDS Church next to Hubbell Trading Post. Two classes are held each Tuesday; one at 10 a.m. and another one at 7 p.m. so those who work can attend. The course is based upon Christian gospel principles and participation is confidential.

Adult family members and friends affected by alcohol and drug addictions in their loved ones, are also invited to attend. No children please. There is no charge for the class, other than $3 for the workbook. Call Elder Wilcox at (928) 755-3999 for more information.

1st Annual Native E-Music Awards seeks Native music submissions

The National Native American Urban Music Association, a non-profit organization, is presenting one of its first musical endeavors with the 1st Annual Native-E Music Awards, or NEMA for short. It is the first ever Native American/Aboriginal music recognition process that will bring together mainstream and Native American/Aboriginal music industries to allow top talent to be exposed to global music industry professionals. NEMA will utilize a panel of notable mainstream industry professionals as judges and talent scouts with production credits ranging from Snoop Dogg to Elvis Presley.

Aside from a few categories, judging will be based upon the artists' true vocal or instrumental talent. Production quality or media will have no affect on the selection of nominees and winners. Native American technical advisors will aid the judges in the traditional categories.

Destined to be the biggest Native American/Aboriginal music recognition event in years, NEMA will showcase top Native American and Aboriginal artists during the awards show and feature live performances from popular mainstream artists.

The deadline for submissions is July 31. The rules and forms for submission can be found on NEMA's website at www.native-e-musicawards.com. The awards show is tentatively scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 30. More details are forthcoming.

For more information, please call J. Nez at (505) 488-8472 or e-mail jovanii_nez@yahoo.com

Two repaving projects in Flagstaff area through July

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has two repaving projects underway in the Flagstaff through the month of July.

The first project is the southbound lanes of Interstate 17 from the Airport Interchange (mile post 337) to the Willard Springs Interchange (mile post 325). The work will consist of removing the top layer of asphalt and replacing it with new pavement. Sections of the roadbed will need to be repaired prior to the new pavement being installed. Some guardrail work will also be done. Work hours will be between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. The project is scheduled for completion in late July.

The second project will be on Business Route 40 in Flagstaff from Switzer Canyon Drive, through downtown Flagstaff, to Pine Springs (Woody Mountain Road area on Route 66). The project will consist of removing the top layer of asphalt and replacing it with new pavement. The project will also add a right turn lane at the junction of Woodlands Village Road and Route 66. Minor work on curb, gutter and culvert replacement will also be done. Impacts to traffic will be minimized by performing a majority of the work between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday night. However, some minor delays should be expected. ADOT will keep members of the traveling public, local businesses, and residents informed of traffic impacts. Business access will be maintained throughout the project. The project is scheduled for completion in October.

Both projects will have reduced speed limits and lane closures with Arizona Department of Public Safety officers on site to assist with traffic control. Project information is available at the project hot line, 1-888-236-4374.

For additional information contact Rod Wigman at (928) 779-7554.

NACOG Area on Aging seeks elder award nominations

The Northern Arizona Council of Governments' Area Agency on Aging is currently accepting nominations for the Accomplished Elder Award. This award goes to deserving seniors from Northern Arizona and will be presented at our 17th Annual Elder Issues conference in Prescott, Arizona on Sept. 17.

Nominees must be 70 years or older; have or had an interesting career or job, have accomplished something significant in his/her lifetime, possess a gift, talent, or ability that serves others, gave to others in their lifetime or is currently doing so and/or is significantly accomplished in any creative or commendable endeavor; and must be a resident of Apache, Coconino, Navajo or Yavapai counties.

Nominations are being accepted through July 31. Please write or type your nomination information on one page and include the senior's name, phone number, address and the reason you are nominating the individual. Please also include your own name, address, phone number, and e-mail address. Nominations should be sent to: NACOG Area Agency on Aging, Accomplished Elder Award, 119 E. Aspen Avenue, Flagstaff AZ 86001. If you have any questions, please call (928) 213-5239 or leave a message toll free at 1-877-521-3500.

'Need for Change' is here

The Black Mesa Project is back in the news, global warming is the hot topic, an initiaitive by the Shirley Administration to downsize the council is in the works and there is small news being passed around about Leupp Chapter Elections.

Concerned community members have come together to make a positive change in the Local government. Running for Chapter President is Priscilla Franklin; Vice-President, Ellen Billie Branch; Treasurer/Secretary, Leota Begay; LSI School Board: Lela Zilth and Calvin Johnson (write-in candidate).

The primary election is scheduled for August 5, so exercise your vote and weigh in the possible choices. This is the time to meet the candidates and become active in your community.

The "Need for Change" campaign will be holding a rally near you. For more information contact Calvin Johnson at (928) 814-1475 or e-mail caljohnson2006@yahoo.com.

The best birding in Flagstaff

During July and September, the Arboretum at Flagstaff will have knowledgeable birders from the local chapter of the Audubon Society leading bird-watching tours through the gardens every Saturday starting at 7:30 a.m. With over 2,000 species of plants and a permanent water source, the gardens provide an ideal refuge on the journey north in the spring and back again in the fall. This is a wonderful time of year to view the migratory birds that stop at The Arboretum's wetlands. Checklists are available for all participants. Some binoculars and guidebooks may be borrowed during the tours.

The birdwalks are free and open to all ages. Please call (928) 774-1442 for more information, or visit www.thearb.org.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Applications for Tribal Wildlife Grants

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today issued a request for grant proposals from federally recognized Tribes for projects that will conserve fish and wildlife resources on tribal lands. The 2009 Tribal Wildlife Grants program funds projects on a competitive basis that benefit habitat, fish and wildlife, including species that are not hunted or fished.

Proposals and grant applications must be postmarked by September 2, 2008. The maximum award for any one project under this program is $200,000. For more information and to obtain a copy of the grant application kit, or to find a regional Tribal grants contact, please visit www.fws.gov/nativeamerican. Tribal representatives can also visit www.grants.gov for information about this and other grant programs for Tribes.

Previously funded Tribal Wildlife Grant projects range from comprehensive surveys of plants, fish and wildlife, to habitat and fish restoration, to development of new resource management plans and techniques. The Tribal Wildlife Grants program began in 2003 and has provided over $50 million to date for building the capacity of Tribes to manage fish and wildlife resources. A comprehensive report on projects awarded between 2003 and 2006 is available at www.fws.gov/nativeamerican.

Oraivi Footrace lauches Nuvayokva Saucony Shoe Program

The Oraivi Footrace is proud to announce the launching of the Nuvayokva Saucony Shoe Program, a sister program of the Oraivi 8K Footrace. The program intends to award a pair of running shoes to cross country athletes from the Hopi and Navajo communities.

The mission of the program is to help cross country athletes in need of running shoes. By awarding running shoes, it is hoped that it will promote self-confidence in people to reach their dream and potential in the sport of running as well as giving individuals an opporunity to continue the tradition of competitive running in the Hopi and Navajo cultures.

This program is made possible with the contribution of Saucony along with proceeds from The Oraivi 8K Footrace and Two Mile Fun Run and Walk. The Nuvayokva Saucony Shoe Program will award 10 individuals from the Hopi and Navajo communtie for the upcoming 2008 cross country season. The Nuvayokva Saucony Shoe Program anticipates awarding more individuals in the years to come.

For detailed information and an application visit www.oraivifootrace.com/2.html.

FMC Cancer Center offers Lunch 'N Learn support groups

The Cancer Center at Flagstaff Medical Center offers monthly Lunch 'N Learn support groups. The meetings are held on the last Saturday of each month from noon to 2:30 p.m. in the Cancer Center lobby. During the first hour a light lunch will be provided along with a speaker about a cancer-related topic. The remainder of the time is reserved for a support/discussion group. These groups are confidential, free and open to the public.

Because cancer is a family disease, support groups offer families and friends an opportunity to share their feelings and ideas about the journey when a loved one has cancer. Sometimes just knowing others are having a similar experience can be both comforting and healing.

For more information about the support groups, call (928) 773-2261. For more information about the Cancer Center at Flagstaff Medical Center, visit CancerCenteratFlagstaff.com.

Coconino County ITAC seeking new membership

The Coconino County Inter-Tribal Advisory Council (ITAC) is currently recruiting interested citizens to serve on the ITAC.

Established in 2001 by the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, the ITAC is an official liaison and communication link between Native American communities and Coconino County governmental agencies. It is composed of up to 15 members appointed by the Board of Supervisors. Members must reside in Coconino County and have an interest in and knowledge of issues and concerns of importance to Native Americans residing in Coconino County.

The ITAC reviews and makes recommendations to the Board of Supervisors concerning existing and proposed city, county, state, federal and tribal legislation affecting Native Americans. They also examine and assist in planning policies for employment, education, housing, health services, community services, the justice system, recreation and land development as they affect or relate to Native American tribal members.

The ITAC also promotes cultural and historical activities and events related to Native Americans and recommends and reports findings from studies regarding the current needs of Native Americans to the Board of Supervisors. Additionally, they host community forums to educate the community about Native American issues and concerns.

The ITAC meets on the first Tuesday of each month in the Coconino County Administrative Center located at 219 East Cherry Ave. in downtown Flagstaff. The meeting will be in the second floor meeting room. Public participation is encouraged.

Citizens who are interested in becoming a member of the ITAC are strongly encouraged to apply. Applications can be downloaded from the ITAC Web site at www.coconino.az.gov/itac. Completed applications should be submitted to: Coconino County Board Of Supervisors, 219 East Cherry Ave., Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

For more information about the ITAC, or if you should have questions regarding membership, call (928) 779-6644 or toll free (800) 559-9289, or e-mail Elaine Beyal at ebeyal@coconino.az.gov.

Foster grandparent and senior companion volunteers needed

The Senior Volunteer Programs of Northern Arizona's foster grandparent and senior companion programs need elders age 60 and older. By volunteering your time and talent to help children or visit homebound seniors, you can receive a stipend of $2.65/hr tax free, meal and mileage reimbursement, annual physical exam, secondary insurance and formal recognition for the important work you do.

Foster grandparent volunteers can volunteer 15-40 hours weekly to help children who need extra love and attention in a variety of settings including school classrooms, Head Start programs, and children's shelters.

Senior companion volunteers can volunteer 15-40 hours weekly to help homebound seniors who need a helping hand to stay independent.

If you are interested in finding out more about the foster grandparent and senior companion programs, contact Mary Tenakhongva at (928) 734-1290 or Sally Greer at (928) 523-1082 or toll free at 1-866-856-3017.

DO NOT USE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

Echo Cliffs Veterans Organization monthly meetings

The Echo Cliffs Veterans Organization of the Bodaway-Gap chapter holds monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Bodaway-Gap Chapter office. We encourage all veterans from Coppermine to Cameron to attend. Upcoming events and topics include the building of the new veterans center, forming an honor guard and ensuring that all veterans receive their benefits. For more information contact the Bodaway-Gap Chapter at (928) 283-8843 or Ray Elshire at (928) 283-0612.

Announcers, announcements sought

KGHR Radio Station in Tuba City is seeking Navajo speakers to make local and community announcements in the Navajo language on the air. Speakers of any age group are needed including youth and elderly. KGHR is also seeking local and community announcements to be aired on the radio to inform and educate the local communities and listeners. Topics should be of an informative and educational nature. Navajo Nation, state, county and chapter service providers, health care facilities, schools and businesses are asked to submit input and announcements to inform local Navajo communities about events taking place. For further information, to volunteer or submit community announcements contact the Greyhills Academy High School Human Resources Office at P.O. Box 160, Tuba City, AZ, 86045; by phone at (928) 283-6271 ext. 196 or 112; by fax at (928) 283-6604; or by email at kghr@gahs.bia.edu.

Coconino Rural Environment Corps now hiring for 2008 season

Based in Flagstaff, the Coconino Rural Environment Corps is a conservation corps program for young adults who want to make a difference in their world. Projects can include trail work, wildfire prevention and forest restoration, wildlife habitat restoration, native species revegetation, invasive species eradication, wetlands area restoration and GPS surveys.

Corps members must be age 18-25 to be eligible. A living stipend of $580 every two weeks is paid and an educational award is also presented at the end of the term. $2,462 for 900 hours is given and $4,725 for 1,700 hours is provided. Great training opportunities to further personal and professional goals are offered including enhanced understanding of the environment and environmental issues, as well as access to federal land management agencies and staff.

Applications are now being accepted for 6-12 month terms beginning January 2008. Spaces are limited, so apply now.

For more information call Monique at (928) 679-8173 or visit www.crecweb.org.

Navajo County to assist residents in obtaining birth certificates

The Navajo County Public Health Services District can assist area residents with Arizona birth certificates. The Health District can provide to eligible parents, Arizona birth certificates for children born between 1950 to present for a $10 charge. The Health District may also be able to assist with other Arizona birth certificate issues.

The Health District can only process birth certificates from the Holbrook office. In order to further assist area residents, the Vital Records office travels to other locations. If the Health District is able to process the birth certificate, it is mailed to residents from the Holbrook office.

For more information contact Karen at (928) 524-4750.

Holbrook High School class reunion

The Holbrook High School Class of 1974 announces their class reunion set for 2009 in Holbrook. Roadrunners, heads up! If you have any questions, you may e-mail jean_benally@msn.com or muunshado@yahoo.com, or call L.C. Baldwin at (505) 863-7687 (work) or (505) 979-4509 (cell), or mail your question(s) to P.O. Box 3752, Gallup, N.M. 87305.

Black Mesa Trust Seeks New Membership

The Black Mesa Trust is currently seeking new membership for the Black Mesa Trust Organization. According to Vernon Masyesva, Executive Director, the Mission of Black Mesa Trust is "to safeguard, preserve and honor the land, air, and water of Black Mesa. Black Mesa Trust is about harnessing the lessons of traditional knowledge with western science and technology to secure permanently our homeland for generations of children yet to come."

Black Mesa Trust is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All contributions are tax deductable. You may join Black Mesa Trust in the following membership categories: $1 Pavatya-Tadpole, $10 Paakwa-Frog, $25 Baaqavi-Reed, $50 Paawiya-Duck, $100 Tangaqwunu-Rainbow, $250 Paahutaviyva-Spring Keeper, $500 Yoytaviyta-Rainkeeper, and $1,000 Paahutunatyawtaqa-Water Guardian.

Please send your name, address, phone number or e-mail and tribal affiliation. Send your check or money order to: Black Mesa Trust, P.O. Box 33, Kykotsmovi, Arizona 86039. For more information, go to www.BMT.org or call (928) 734-9255.

Coconino County volunteer opportunities

Do you ever feel disconnected with the community? Would you like to make a positive difference in someone's life? Join the team at Coconino County Community Services and volunteer your time to help our citizens who may be in need of some help. Volunteers are currently being recruited to help homebound seniors or disabled adults in a variety of ways including friendly phone calls, visits, shopping, transportation assistance and yard maintenance. There are also many other volunteer opportunities available through the county. Call Sharon Tewksbury-Bloom at (928) 522-7913 or e-mail stewksbury-bloom@coconino.az.gov to be matched with a service position in you community today.

Mountain Spinners and Weavers Guild meeting

All interested individuals are invited to the monthly Mountain Spinners and Weavers Guild meeting, which is held at 9 a.m., on the third Saturday of each month at the American Lutheran Church, 1085 Scott Dr. in Prescott. For more information contact Rowena Tank at (928) 899-3574.

GED distance learning opportunity

Coconino Community College offers free online GED preparation program. Individuals who want to study for a GED but can't attend class regularly, can use GED Online to study and take practice tests anywhere they can access the Internet. In Flagstaff and surrounding areas, call Coconino Community College Adult Education at (928) 226-4317. This program is free to all and is funded by the Arizona Department of Education.

New Frontiers seeks five percent Wednesday candidates

On the third Wednesday of each month New Frontiers donates five percent of that day's sales to a Flagstaff non-profit group that provides for critical human needs such as food, shelter, emergency health care or a safe haven. In the past, monies have also been donated to reading programs, community cleanup campaigns, children's groups, causes and programs that improve the quality of life in Flagstaff. To find out if your group qualifies, call Priya Drews at (928) 774-5747.

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