Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa) is offering a web-based course at no additional cost, for community health workers in an effort to help reduce health disparities and empower patients. This course gives these important community resources tools to help patients communicate better with their doctors and more effectively navigate the healthcare system. This course is available in both English and Spanish.
To access the course, go to www.fairhealthtogether.com, choose Georgia from the state pull-down menu under 'Providers,' and then click the 'Training' tab.
For a full description, please click here.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Program Collaboration Specialist position open
Program Collaboration Specialist
Review of resumes will begin on Monday, March 29, 2011 and continue until the position is filled.
For the full job description, please click here.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Continuing Medical Education Workshop
APRIL 1, 2011 2PM TO 5PMINTEGRATING TRADITIONAL HEALING PRACTICES AND CLINICAL PRACTICE
FEATURED SPEAKERS
Theordora Sockyma-Homewytewa, Hopi Medicine Woman
Dr. Kathy Mohr-Almeida, Curandera
Dr. Susie John, IHS Physician, Navajo Nation
For physicians, nurses, social workers, psychologists, health educa-tors, dentists, dental hygienists, and other health and social service professionals.
Questions? Contact Kathy.Kelly@nau.edu
High Country Conference Center
201 West Butler Avenue, Flagstaff, AZ
FREE PARKING
Seating limited to the first 75 people.
$30 preregistration before March 18. On site: $40
Send a check for $30 dollars to:
Interdisciplinary Health Policy Institute, NAU
P.O. Box 6013 Flagstaff 86011-6013
Sponsored by the Interdisciplinary Health Policy Institute, NAU
2.75 CME UNITS APPLIED FOR
Now Hiring Native American Liaison & Lay Health Workers
Northern Arizona University’s Partnership for Native American Cancer Prevention is recruiting for a part-time, temporary Liaison and two Lay Health Workers to work with the Native American community in Flagstaff. Qualifications include having close connections within Flagstaff’s Native American community.The Liaison will be responsible for planning community cancer prevention activities for Flagstaff’s Native American community, facilitating an advisory committee, coordinating with clinics, and supervising lay health workers.
The 2 Lay Health Workers will be responsible for organizing and conducting cancer prevention activities for Flagstaff’s Native American community.
The positions are part-time, temporary, grant-funded for 16 hours per week; possibility of more hours. Hourly wage depends upon qualifications; no benefits. Continuation of positions is dependent on grant funds through August 31, 2012.
Obtain more information and submit an application at:
http://www.nacp.nau.edu/community.html
A Healthy Life is a Beautiful Life
FREE Dinner * Childcare Provided * Spanish Interpretation
Last year, we assessed the Sunnyside Neighborhood regarding the health of the community. We are applying the strategies you suggested. Join us as we unveil our assessment findings.
For more information please contact Julio Quezada at 928.525.6969
Free Services Include:SOCIAL SERVICES, BLOOD PRESSURE CHECK, DENTAL SCREENING, LEGAL AID, TAX HELP, ID ASSISTANCE, SHELTER SERVICES, JOB SERVICES, VETERAN AND YOUTH SERVICES, BIRTH CERTIFICATES, COLLEGE INFO, HOUSING ASSISTANCE, FOOD BOX REFERRALS, UTILITY ASSISTANCE CLOTHING, HAIR CUTS, DAYCARE, FREE STORE, LUNCH AND SNACKS, AND SO MUCH MORE!
FREE BUS RIDE TO PROJECT CONNECT!
BUS ROUTES 2 AND 5
Look for free shuttles from bus stop to CONNECT!
***This flyer serves as your free bus ticket***
***Some services require personal documents***
For more information, call Community Services 928-679-7425
Spread the Word... First Annual Early Childhood Fair
FREE* Oral Health Screenings and Flouride Varnishes
* Children 5 and Under & Pregnant Women
FREE Health Screenings
Kids Stuff Swap (Clothing, Toys and More!)
Car Seat Inspection and Recycling
For more information, call Amy Callahan: (928)637-0416 or e-mail acallahan@azftf.gov
Career Opportunities at FTF - National Search
Dear Regional Council Members:
First Things First (FTF) has made significant progress over the past five years in fulfilling the voters’ mandate to expand opportunities for children throughout Arizona to start kindergarten healthy and ready to succeed. Our Program staff are responsible for ensuring that the services funded by FTF are rooted in early childhood research and best practice, are responsive to the needs of Arizona’s diverse communities, and are achieving the desired results for our kids.
As our programmatic offerings continue to grow, it is imperative that we provide adequate staff support for those critical areas. To that end, we have realigned resources in other areas of FTF to expand our Program team. This team operates under the direction of Karen Woodhouse, our Chief Program Officer. Sandy Foreman, whom many of you know, will serve as Senior Director of Early Learning. Sandy brings decades of experience and tremendous expertise to this newly created position. We are delighted that she has agreed to serve in this leadership role.
Today, we are commencing a national search for three additional positions:
· Senior Director, Children’s Health
· Senior Director, Family Support & Literacy
· Senior Director, Strategic Initiatives
Click on the above links for job descriptions and application processes for each position. Please help us recruit the best and brightest to FTF by forwarding this information to any potential candidates.
All positions will be posted at both www.azftf.gov and www.azstatejobs.gov.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to ensure all young children in Arizona are equipped with the tools for academic success.
Rhian Evans Allvin
Executive Director
rallvin@azftf.gov
Direct 602.771.5026
Fax 602.274.6351
Friday, March 11, 2011
Sexual Assault Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. At our annual Take Back the Night event in Flagstaff (Tuesday April 12th, beginning at 5:30 pm) we would like to present three community members from our county with recognition awards for their hard work in both intervening and preventing sexual violence.
The three categories are:
· An outstanding community member who has shown dedication and passion in the intervention realm of sexual violence. (Examples may include: advocates, law enforcement, criminal justice personnel, medical staff…)
· An outstanding community member who has shown dedication and passion in the prevention arena of sexual violence. (Examples may include: Prevention educators, prevention activists, policy/procedure writers, community education activists, political activists, media staff, media producers…)
· An outstanding YOUTH community member who has shown dedication and passion in addressing sexual violence and promoting healthy relationships. (Examples may include: Youth activists, youth artists…)
If you know of anyone who may fit into any of these categories (you may nominate a person for each!) please email me with a short paragraph explaining why you feel this community member should be considered for this award by March 16th, 2011.
Thank you for taking the time to think of ways in which our neighbors, colleagues, friends and partners work to end sexual violence in our communities!
Beya Thayer, MSW
Coconino County's Coordinated Community Response Team
to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Coordinator
928-707--2057
bthayer@northlandfamily.org
Northland Family Help Center
The three categories are:
· An outstanding community member who has shown dedication and passion in the intervention realm of sexual violence. (Examples may include: advocates, law enforcement, criminal justice personnel, medical staff…)
· An outstanding community member who has shown dedication and passion in the prevention arena of sexual violence. (Examples may include: Prevention educators, prevention activists, policy/procedure writers, community education activists, political activists, media staff, media producers…)
· An outstanding YOUTH community member who has shown dedication and passion in addressing sexual violence and promoting healthy relationships. (Examples may include: Youth activists, youth artists…)
If you know of anyone who may fit into any of these categories (you may nominate a person for each!) please email me with a short paragraph explaining why you feel this community member should be considered for this award by March 16th, 2011.
Thank you for taking the time to think of ways in which our neighbors, colleagues, friends and partners work to end sexual violence in our communities!
Beya Thayer, MSW
Coconino County's Coordinated Community Response Team
to Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Coordinator
928-707--2057
bthayer@northlandfamily.org
Northland Family Help Center
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a course designed to help students cultivate their own mindfulness practice.
Mindfulness is a way of waking up to your life, of learning to relate directly to whatever is happening in your life. It is a way of doing something for yourself that only you can do—consciously working with your own stress, pain, illness, and the challenges of daily life.
By enrolling in MBSR, you will learn the following:
• Practical methods for focusing your attention
• Coping skills to improve your ability to handle stressful situations
• To increase awareness of the interconnectedness of mind and body in health and illness
• Gentle body-focused conditioning exercises to strengthen and release muscle tension
• To cultivate greater balance in your life
The class schedule consists of 8 weekly classes of 2 hours each and one day of mindfulness. There are over 20 total hours of instruction.
This course is modeled on MBSR developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. This program has been taught for over 30 years and research indicates efficacy in an array of areas of both physical and mental distress.
Nicolette Sachs, course instructor, has taught Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction to over 100 students during the past 8 years. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Nicolette has sustained a private practice in Flagstaff for 15 years.
The first class will begin on Tues., March 22nd, 2011, from 9:00AM-11:00AM. One day of Mindfulness is scheduled for Saturday, April 30th. The cost for the 8 weekly classes, including the mindfulness all day, and course materials is $250.00.
The course location is: Academy of the Martial Way 2708 N. 4th St., Suite E-1 Flagstaff (located in the Knoles Village Center off 4th Street).
As orientation has passed, anyone interested in the course will need to meet with Nicolette. Please feel free to contact her at (928) 526-1961 x4 or nssachs@gmail.com with any questions and to reserve your place in this MBSR class.
Mindfulness is a way of waking up to your life, of learning to relate directly to whatever is happening in your life. It is a way of doing something for yourself that only you can do—consciously working with your own stress, pain, illness, and the challenges of daily life.
By enrolling in MBSR, you will learn the following:
• Practical methods for focusing your attention
• Coping skills to improve your ability to handle stressful situations
• To increase awareness of the interconnectedness of mind and body in health and illness
• Gentle body-focused conditioning exercises to strengthen and release muscle tension
• To cultivate greater balance in your life
The class schedule consists of 8 weekly classes of 2 hours each and one day of mindfulness. There are over 20 total hours of instruction.
This course is modeled on MBSR developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. This program has been taught for over 30 years and research indicates efficacy in an array of areas of both physical and mental distress.
Nicolette Sachs, course instructor, has taught Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction to over 100 students during the past 8 years. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Nicolette has sustained a private practice in Flagstaff for 15 years.
The first class will begin on Tues., March 22nd, 2011, from 9:00AM-11:00AM. One day of Mindfulness is scheduled for Saturday, April 30th. The cost for the 8 weekly classes, including the mindfulness all day, and course materials is $250.00.
The course location is: Academy of the Martial Way 2708 N. 4th St., Suite E-1 Flagstaff (located in the Knoles Village Center off 4th Street).
As orientation has passed, anyone interested in the course will need to meet with Nicolette. Please feel free to contact her at (928) 526-1961 x4 or nssachs@gmail.com with any questions and to reserve your place in this MBSR class.
FREE Garden Curriculum Teacher Training Workshop April 9th!
Join us for a full day of learning and fun at Willowbend Environmental Education Center to learn about Flagstaff Foodlink’s new state standards-aligned K-6 gardening curriculum! Event includes an introduction to growing a successful garden in our region, training on the curriculum, a free gourmet LOCAL lunch, 260 page curriculum, and a laminated Flagstaff Planting Guide. Register today!
When? Saturday, April 9th, 9am-4pm
Where? Willowbend Environmental Education Center 703 E. Sawmill Rd.
To register for this event email flagstafffoodlink@gmail.com or call 928-853-4333.
This event is free to teachers!!! A $25 cost applies to non-educators. Space is limited and priority will be given to classroom teachers.
Continuing education credit for certified teachers pending approval for this event
URGENT: Major League Baseball - It's time to knock tobacco out of the park
America loves baseball and so do tobacco companies. There are no more prominent spokesmen for smokeless tobacco than today’s Major League Baseball players… the same players that many young people – particularly teenage boys – look up to. The bulge in the lip and the can in the back pocket are among the images that have helped define masculinity for many a generation. And they are images that have caused great harm in the form of cancer, mouth diseases and in triggering heart attacks. Yet Major League ballplayers, managers and coaches continue to chew tobacco on television all season long. And their behavior has consequences: smokeless tobacco use among high school boys has increased by 36% since 2003!
From Babe Ruth to Tony Gwynn, we have seen our heroes suffer with cancer. We do not need to see future generations suffer the same way.
Join us and nine other major public health groups as we call on Major League Baseball and the Players Association (the player’s union) to ban all tobacco use on the field and in the dugout in their upcoming contract negotiations. The 2012 contract will be in place for five seasons, so it is essential that we act now.
Tobacco use is banned in the minors, the NCAA and the National Hockey League … now, it is time for Major League Baseball to do what is right and ban tobacco use from public view.
TAKE ACTION: Send a message to Major League Baseball.
It’s time to Knock Tobacco Out of the Park!
Thanks,
Brian Hutchinson
Grassroots Director
Tobacco-Free Kids
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
URGENT: Tell US Senate: Hands off prevention & public health!
The U.S. Senate is set to vote tomorrow on a budget bill, approved by the House of Representatives last month, that would drastically cut funding for prevention and other essential public health programs. It is critical that you write your Senators TODAY asking them to oppose the House bill and its cuts to prevention and public health programs.The U.S. already spends too little on programs that prevent costly diseases from occurring. Smart investments prevent disease, save lives, and rein in health care costs over time.
The cuts approved by the House of Representatives that the Senate will be voting on are shortsighted and severe. Funding for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention would be cut by more than $1 billion this year.
Federal funding for state and local community-based tobacco prevention programs and help for tobacco users who want to quit will be jeopardized if these cuts are approved.
Contact your Senators and urge a NO vote on the House budget bill.
Lawmakers who want to reduce government spending should target wasteful and ineffective programs, not public health and prevention programs that have a proven record of success. We know how to reduce tobacco use and tobacco-related disease; by providing the resources to implement effective tobacco control programs, we will save lives and reduce health care costs.
Thank you,
Brian Hutchinson
Grassroots Director
Tobacco-Free Kids
Monday, March 7, 2011
Arizona outlaws "Spice"; Marijuana soda?
From The Coconino County Alliance Against Drugs:
Arizona Outlaws "Spice"
Spice, a chemically treated blend of herbs marketed as incense but often smoked as an alternative to marijuana, is now illegal in Arizona.
Gov. Jan Brewer signed a bill on Feb. 22 classifying substances used to make spice as dangerous drugs. Anyone caught making, selling or possessing spice can be charged with a Class 2 felony, which carries a minimum four years in prison.
“All law enforcement that we are aware of certainly support the bill and will enforce it and will prosecute under it” said Brewer.
Eleven other states have outlawed spice, and 20 more were considering bans according to a news release from the Governor’s office.
Marijuana Soda?
A company in Soquel, Ca., has launched a line of soda pot – or marijuana soda in February in Colorado according to Time Magazine.
Marketed as Canna Cola, it is the “flagship” cola drink. It contains 35 to 65 milligrams of THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. The plan is to sell it to medical-marijuana dispensaries in Colorado starting in February. The organic drinks come in eight different flavors (including root beer, pink lemonade or grape). It is being likened to “light beer” and has a mild marijuana taste.
Each bottle will retail for roughly $10.00 to $15.00.
In time, it will most likely be an alternative to smoking cannabis and using pain killers.
Arizona Outlaws "Spice"
Spice, a chemically treated blend of herbs marketed as incense but often smoked as an alternative to marijuana, is now illegal in Arizona.
Gov. Jan Brewer signed a bill on Feb. 22 classifying substances used to make spice as dangerous drugs. Anyone caught making, selling or possessing spice can be charged with a Class 2 felony, which carries a minimum four years in prison.
“All law enforcement that we are aware of certainly support the bill and will enforce it and will prosecute under it” said Brewer.
Eleven other states have outlawed spice, and 20 more were considering bans according to a news release from the Governor’s office.
Marijuana Soda?
A company in Soquel, Ca., has launched a line of soda pot – or marijuana soda in February in Colorado according to Time Magazine.
Marketed as Canna Cola, it is the “flagship” cola drink. It contains 35 to 65 milligrams of THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. The plan is to sell it to medical-marijuana dispensaries in Colorado starting in February. The organic drinks come in eight different flavors (including root beer, pink lemonade or grape). It is being likened to “light beer” and has a mild marijuana taste.
Each bottle will retail for roughly $10.00 to $15.00.
In time, it will most likely be an alternative to smoking cannabis and using pain killers.
Healthy Living Workshops: Learn How to Take Control
Do you have diabetes, heart disease, COPD, arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, or other ongoing health condition?The Healthy Living workshop can teach you the skills you need to manage your condition and get your life back.
Workshop meets once a week for 6 weeks. Enjoy the company and support of others living with chronic conditions.
Workshop is free!
Space is limited, call to register.
Next workshop will be offered:
Beginning March 22, 2011
Where: Coconino County Public Health Services District
2625 N. King Street, Flagstaff
For more information contact:
Carol Sullivan
928-679-7266
csullivan@coconino.az.gov
Explore Your County Parks Series
Please join us in March and April for our monthly outdoor recreation activities. If you want to propose topics or locations for future "Explore Your County Parks" events, please just let us know!March 12 - Hike/Snow Shoe Hike
This month's event will explore Harrenburg Wash in Kachina Village. Meet by the Kachina Village Water/Improvement Company on Ancient Trail at 10:00 a.m. and we'll hike or snow shoe (depending on conditions) up the Wash and back. As usual, we'll enjoy hot chocolate and mingling at the end. For more information, please call Jeff at (570) 417-3577.
April 16 - Earth Day Bicycle Ride
What better way to celebrate Earth Day than with a bike ride through the forest! Because Earth Day falls on the third Saturday of the month, we're changing our typical date for the "Explore Your County Park" series to accommodate. The Friends of Coconino County Parks will have a booth at the Earth Day Celebration downtown in the City Hall parking lot. We will meet at 10:00 a.m., look for our banner, we will be setting up the Friends booth for the Earth Day event.
The ride will leave from City Hall through west downtown to Thorpe Park. We will ride up the FUTS trail then out towards A-1 Mountain for lunch on one of the meadows off FS 506 - the peak views are spectacular. The return trip will be down through Curling Smoke and Kinlani Roads where we'll stop briefly to discuss the proposed Loop Trail connections in that vicinity.
Then plan extra time to check out all the Earth Day activities when we're done. Please be sure and bring a mountain bike (in good repair), your helmet, a snack/lunch, and some water. If you have a spare tire tube, bring it along to...just in case. This ride is suitable for novice to intermediate bike riders. For more information, please call Jeff at (570) 417-3577.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Medicaid (AHCCCS) Elimination in Arizona
from former Maricopa County Health Officer Jonathan B. Weisbuch, MD, MPH (jbweisbuch@mac.com)
February 28, 2011
The Arizona legislative plan to kill our Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), is wrong, not only because it would add 280,000 (if only the Governor’s waiver is enacted), or 1.3 million Arizona residents (if SB 1519 passes) to the 1.1 million currently uninsured. It is wrong, not only because it denies poor children the prevention and medical care they need to become healthy adults. It is wrong, not only because it eliminates money that sick and poor elderly need to cover the costs of Medicare. And it is wrong, not only because many disabled, chronically ill, poor adults will be prevented from receiving the care they need to continue working, or caring for their family. These are important humanistic reasons for not killing AHCCCS. But the primary reason for not eliminating AHCCCS is that doing so will not just hurt the poor; it will harm all residents, regardless of their income, their current insurance status, their age, their ethnic background, or their political party.
The money Arizona spends on care for the medically indigent protects all of us from infectious diseases, it supports health providers and the health system; and it is a major contributor to the economy. For every dollar Arizona spends in the program, we receive over two dollars from the Federal Medicaid program. What other state investment yields a 200% immediate return? These three dollars support our hospitals, compensate our physicians and nurses, buy pharmaceuticals, reimburse nursing homes, ambulance services, and help to educate medical professionals. AHCCCS dollars keep the medical system functional so that when any of us needs care, the resources are available. These billions of dollars also go a long way to add wealth to the Arizona economy.
AHCCCS serves the poorest and often the sickest in society; a group subject to infectious diseases, which, if untreated, produce significant morbidity and mortality and a high probability of transmission to others. AHCCCS doctors identify and treat these illnesses; than report them to local health departments, as required by state law. If not managed early, tuberculosis, hepatitis, typhoid fever, infectious meningitis, encephalitis and a host of childhood illnesses can all become a threat to the community. If AHCCCS is killed, two million, one third of our population, will no longer have early access to medical care. Their treatment will be delayed, raising the chance for disease outbreaks. Infectious diseases do not just attack the poor, or immigrants; everyone is at risk. If we have children in our schools, shop in the malls, use public transportation, walk the streets, we cannot insulate ourselves from the diseases of the uninsured.
The elimination of AHCCCS will do more than place all of us at risk to infectious disease. Every dollar spent caring for Medicaid patients strengthens the Arizona health care infrastructure. When the medically indigent enrolled in AHCCCS use health services, provider groups, doctors, hospitals, long term care facilities, and pharmacies all benefit. In rural areas the medically indigent may be a majority of a physician’s practice, and a large proportion of rural hospital admissions. If Medicaid money is eliminated, rural and urban hospitals will be hurt. Some rural facilities may not survive, leaving the community bereft of emergency services, doctors, nurses, and pharmacies. Every rural resident will have difficulty finding comparable sources of care. The urban teaching hospitals, serving large numbers of AHCCCS patients, are also at risk if Medicaid funds vanish. These funds support the ER, pay for certain specialty care, and support post-graduate medical education, all of which would be reduced or eliminated.
But this is not all. The extinguishing of AHCCCS, will devastate the $200 billion Arizona economy. The state Health system is a $40 billion enterprise, nearly 20% of the total economy. The system includes 87 hospitals, numerous outpatient centers, emergency rooms and trauma centers, over 12,000 physicians, 100,000 nurses, thousands of technicians, aides, druggists, administrators and clerks. AHCCCS constitutes 25% of this industry, receiving revenue from the general fund ($3 billion including several hundreds of millions from the tobacco tax and settlement funds), and $7.2 billion from the US Treasury in Medicaid matching funds. Eliminating $10 billion from our economy will hurt every resident of the state. Our individual contribution of $500 to the program, seems a small price to pay to assure protection against epidemic disease, support of the state’s health care system, and preserving our economy and hundreds of thousands of health care jobs.
Ronald Reagan made the point that “A rising tide raises all boats.” It is also true, however, that an ebbing tide leaves all boats stranded. Let us hope that the Legislature and the Government do not eliminate a vital support system for our poor and ourselves.
February 28, 2011
The Arizona legislative plan to kill our Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), is wrong, not only because it would add 280,000 (if only the Governor’s waiver is enacted), or 1.3 million Arizona residents (if SB 1519 passes) to the 1.1 million currently uninsured. It is wrong, not only because it denies poor children the prevention and medical care they need to become healthy adults. It is wrong, not only because it eliminates money that sick and poor elderly need to cover the costs of Medicare. And it is wrong, not only because many disabled, chronically ill, poor adults will be prevented from receiving the care they need to continue working, or caring for their family. These are important humanistic reasons for not killing AHCCCS. But the primary reason for not eliminating AHCCCS is that doing so will not just hurt the poor; it will harm all residents, regardless of their income, their current insurance status, their age, their ethnic background, or their political party.
The money Arizona spends on care for the medically indigent protects all of us from infectious diseases, it supports health providers and the health system; and it is a major contributor to the economy. For every dollar Arizona spends in the program, we receive over two dollars from the Federal Medicaid program. What other state investment yields a 200% immediate return? These three dollars support our hospitals, compensate our physicians and nurses, buy pharmaceuticals, reimburse nursing homes, ambulance services, and help to educate medical professionals. AHCCCS dollars keep the medical system functional so that when any of us needs care, the resources are available. These billions of dollars also go a long way to add wealth to the Arizona economy.
AHCCCS serves the poorest and often the sickest in society; a group subject to infectious diseases, which, if untreated, produce significant morbidity and mortality and a high probability of transmission to others. AHCCCS doctors identify and treat these illnesses; than report them to local health departments, as required by state law. If not managed early, tuberculosis, hepatitis, typhoid fever, infectious meningitis, encephalitis and a host of childhood illnesses can all become a threat to the community. If AHCCCS is killed, two million, one third of our population, will no longer have early access to medical care. Their treatment will be delayed, raising the chance for disease outbreaks. Infectious diseases do not just attack the poor, or immigrants; everyone is at risk. If we have children in our schools, shop in the malls, use public transportation, walk the streets, we cannot insulate ourselves from the diseases of the uninsured.
The elimination of AHCCCS will do more than place all of us at risk to infectious disease. Every dollar spent caring for Medicaid patients strengthens the Arizona health care infrastructure. When the medically indigent enrolled in AHCCCS use health services, provider groups, doctors, hospitals, long term care facilities, and pharmacies all benefit. In rural areas the medically indigent may be a majority of a physician’s practice, and a large proportion of rural hospital admissions. If Medicaid money is eliminated, rural and urban hospitals will be hurt. Some rural facilities may not survive, leaving the community bereft of emergency services, doctors, nurses, and pharmacies. Every rural resident will have difficulty finding comparable sources of care. The urban teaching hospitals, serving large numbers of AHCCCS patients, are also at risk if Medicaid funds vanish. These funds support the ER, pay for certain specialty care, and support post-graduate medical education, all of which would be reduced or eliminated.
But this is not all. The extinguishing of AHCCCS, will devastate the $200 billion Arizona economy. The state Health system is a $40 billion enterprise, nearly 20% of the total economy. The system includes 87 hospitals, numerous outpatient centers, emergency rooms and trauma centers, over 12,000 physicians, 100,000 nurses, thousands of technicians, aides, druggists, administrators and clerks. AHCCCS constitutes 25% of this industry, receiving revenue from the general fund ($3 billion including several hundreds of millions from the tobacco tax and settlement funds), and $7.2 billion from the US Treasury in Medicaid matching funds. Eliminating $10 billion from our economy will hurt every resident of the state. Our individual contribution of $500 to the program, seems a small price to pay to assure protection against epidemic disease, support of the state’s health care system, and preserving our economy and hundreds of thousands of health care jobs.
Ronald Reagan made the point that “A rising tide raises all boats.” It is also true, however, that an ebbing tide leaves all boats stranded. Let us hope that the Legislature and the Government do not eliminate a vital support system for our poor and ourselves.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency Program
Hello,
I am writing to announce City of Flagstaff Housing Authority's new Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency program for people living in Siler Homes, Brannen Homes and scattered sites in Flagstaff. As the program coordinator, my job is to lend support to members of these communities as they complete community service requirements, seek economic independence and pursue personal goals. I see limitless opportunities for networking and coordination across services areas to strengthen resources for these members of our Flagstaff community.
The two primary ways to work together include:
1. Creating opportunities for residents of these neighborhoods to complete 8 hours of community service per month. Specifically, we need to design opportunities for single mothers with children and those with medical restrictions. Projects that can be completed at each site may be easiest for these folks. Some projects that have worked in the past include preparing mailings (stuffing and labeling envelopes) and putting together packets for conferences or events.
2. Share information about your resources with our residents! Get the word out about your services by hosting a workshop, submitting information to our monthly newsletter or developing an ongoing education program. These services can target elderly, persons living disabilities, families, and/or youth.
Our public housing neighborhoods are rich with diversity of background and perspective. I'm excited to serve as a bridge between residents and the greater Flagstaff community as I'm sure the benefits with enrich individuals and our community as a whole.
Please feel free to contact me for more information. I look forward to hearing from you!
Kind regards,
Allie Stender
Resident Opportunity & Self Sufficiency Coordinator
City of Flagstaff Housing Authority
(928) 679-0381
astender@flagha.org
*I appreciate your patience with any delay in my reply as I spend Mondays and Thursday with clients and am out of the office on Fridays.
I am writing to announce City of Flagstaff Housing Authority's new Resident Opportunity and Self-Sufficiency program for people living in Siler Homes, Brannen Homes and scattered sites in Flagstaff. As the program coordinator, my job is to lend support to members of these communities as they complete community service requirements, seek economic independence and pursue personal goals. I see limitless opportunities for networking and coordination across services areas to strengthen resources for these members of our Flagstaff community.
The two primary ways to work together include:
1. Creating opportunities for residents of these neighborhoods to complete 8 hours of community service per month. Specifically, we need to design opportunities for single mothers with children and those with medical restrictions. Projects that can be completed at each site may be easiest for these folks. Some projects that have worked in the past include preparing mailings (stuffing and labeling envelopes) and putting together packets for conferences or events.
2. Share information about your resources with our residents! Get the word out about your services by hosting a workshop, submitting information to our monthly newsletter or developing an ongoing education program. These services can target elderly, persons living disabilities, families, and/or youth.
Our public housing neighborhoods are rich with diversity of background and perspective. I'm excited to serve as a bridge between residents and the greater Flagstaff community as I'm sure the benefits with enrich individuals and our community as a whole.
Please feel free to contact me for more information. I look forward to hearing from you!
Kind regards,
Allie Stender
Resident Opportunity & Self Sufficiency Coordinator
City of Flagstaff Housing Authority
(928) 679-0381
astender@flagha.org
*I appreciate your patience with any delay in my reply as I spend Mondays and Thursday with clients and am out of the office on Fridays.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Flagstaff Foodlink Seeks a Community Garden Coordinator
Flagstaff Foodlink (FFL) is seeking a coordinator to work collaboratively with Flagstaff Foodlink's Community Agriculture Program, the City of Flagstaff, and over 100 community gardeners, at both the Bonito and Izabel Street Community Gardens. This Garden Coordinator (GC) will be hired on a contract basis and is expected to start April 1st working approximately 12 hours per week. FFL, with the GC’s support, anticipates securing additional funding to increase the GC’s position to approximately twenty hours per week by mid-May.Flagstaff Foodlink, a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, has been working to connect the Flagstaff community to healthy regional and local foods since 2004. We offer strong programs and educational, organizational and fundraising tools to the exciting and emerging local food movement in the greater Flagstaff area.
FFL runs four programs, one of which is the Community Agriculture Program. We partner with the City of Flagstaff to create community agriculture sites on public land. The program began in 2009, and since its inception we now have two, quarter-acre community gardens in Flagstaff. The gardens are designed for inexperienced gardeners of all ages and backgrounds who do not have gardening space/resources/support at their own residences, to have a place to grow fresh produce, herbs, and flowers. Both gardens are designed using permaculture principles. All gardeners have access to educational workshops on-site, one-on-one time with the GC for support or guidance, sheds full of shared tools and gardening literature, and community potluck dinners.
Coordinator Responsibilities
Outreach and Organizing: Recruiting new gardeners, as well as cultivating community support, Working closely with City of Flagstaff employees and Flagstaff Foodlink Board members, Maintaining and strengthening relationships with other community organizations, Developing relationships and maintaining good connections with local and regional media, Speaking publicly about the program, Volunteer coordination, Fundraising, donation seeking, and grant writing, and Planning garden potlucks and celebrations for gardeners and the community.
Education: Mentoring new gardeners, Designing and conducting educational workshops on gardening and related topics, and Facilitating workshops led by local and regional gardeners.
Gardening Maintenance: Maintaining the perennials, shrubs, and trees at both gardens, as well as planting annuals each spring, Maintaining the structures at each garden (sheds, fences, art installations, and signs), and Overseeing the development and implementation of large projects.
Qualifications: Garden/farm experience, and a basic knowledge of horticulture, The ability to be self motivated, to create and maintain your own schedule, as well as the ability to work with a wide variety of individuals and groups, The ability to perform strenuous physical labor, The ability to multi-task and handle several projects at one time, A genuine interest and commitment to the local foods movement, and Bilingual Spanish/English a plus.
Compensation
Flagstaff Foodlink will initially offer $12.50/hr for twelve hours per week from April 1st to October 1st, as well support for grant writing and fund seeking to increase your hours per week.
To apply
Please send a resume, two references, and a cover letter including pertinent experience, and why you are interested in this position to
flagstafffoodlink@gmail.com
This position will remain open until it is filled.
Start Date
The coordinator position will begin on April 1, 2011. Hands-on training and materials will be provided.
If you have any questions or need more information, please contact Lyndsey Langsdale at 775-815-1113 or Jo Hale at 928-814-5559.
FASD Workshop
In collaboration with Hozhoni Foundation Institute for Human Development at NAU Flagstaff Medical Center Present
A One-Day Workshop “Fetal Alcohol/Neurobehavioral Conditions”
With International Expert, Diane V. Malbin, MSW
Fetal Alcohol / Neurobehavioral conditions (FA/NB) is an invisible, brain-based physical disability with a wide range of neurobehavioral symptoms. This session establishes a conceptual foundation that links brain function with behaviors, and introduces an emerging best practices approach to developing appropriate and effective person-specific strategies in all settings.
This workshop was designed for parents and professionals; content is relevant for the range of disciplines. It was developed to provide a common language for participants to enhance ongoing collaboration and networking among those working with people with FASD in all systems. Participants in past trainings have included parents, people with FASD, teachers, nurses, physicians, attorneys, judges, mental health and addictions professionals, psychologists, and social workers, and employers, among others.
April 29, 2011
Flagstaff Medical Center, McGee Auditorium
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $35*
**CEU Credit Approval Pending
Certificates of completion will be provided. All participants will also receive a general certificate of completion.
Seating is Limited to 50!
For more information and to make a reservation, contact:
Jean Richmond-Bowman, President, FASDNA
(928) 380-8625
jrbowman@fasdna.org
A One-Day Workshop “Fetal Alcohol/Neurobehavioral Conditions”
With International Expert, Diane V. Malbin, MSW
Fetal Alcohol / Neurobehavioral conditions (FA/NB) is an invisible, brain-based physical disability with a wide range of neurobehavioral symptoms. This session establishes a conceptual foundation that links brain function with behaviors, and introduces an emerging best practices approach to developing appropriate and effective person-specific strategies in all settings.
This workshop was designed for parents and professionals; content is relevant for the range of disciplines. It was developed to provide a common language for participants to enhance ongoing collaboration and networking among those working with people with FASD in all systems. Participants in past trainings have included parents, people with FASD, teachers, nurses, physicians, attorneys, judges, mental health and addictions professionals, psychologists, and social workers, and employers, among others.
April 29, 2011
Flagstaff Medical Center, McGee Auditorium
8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost: $35*
**CEU Credit Approval Pending
Certificates of completion will be provided. All participants will also receive a general certificate of completion.
Seating is Limited to 50!
For more information and to make a reservation, contact:
Jean Richmond-Bowman, President, FASDNA
(928) 380-8625
jrbowman@fasdna.org
Flagstaff Project CONNECT
Hello!
I am writing to let you know of an upcoming opportunity to volunteer your time and services to a very important Project, coming up, in Flagstaff.
Flagstaff Project CONNECT (FPC) is part of a nationwide movement to:
• Increase access to services for people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless
• Engage the community in finding a solution for homelessness
• Offer our community a one-day/one-location in which individuals and families who are without safe and stable homes can address basic needs and access critical services
• Engage and increase the involvement of individual volunteers, government, the faith based, the business and non-profit community to work together to provide access to services and long term solutions for people who are homeless and/or low income.
FPC is a one stop-shop serving near homeless/homeless with necessary services, including legal aid, immunizations, counseling services, job workshops, clothing and food, to name a few!
The next Flagstaff Project CONNECT will be held Saturday, March 26th, from 9AM to 2PM at Flagstaff Middle School. To make Flagstaff Project CONNECT a success, we need volunteers to help act as Guides, assist with Daycare or food service. There will be a training/orientation on Friday, March 25th at 5:30 PM at Flag Middle School to get you acquainted with how FPC works and what might be required of you!
Volunteering has always been an important aspect of my life – it has been a way to not only give back to the Community that supports me and my family, but also gives back to my heart, in being able to assist those who might need help.
I thank you in advance for considering Flagstaff Project CONNECT as a way to give back to your Community, and support those who simply need a little support during these times. If you are interested in donating your time and talent to our Project, please connect with me at the information, below.
Best,
Sara Herron
Community Organizer
Coconino County Community Services
sherron@coconino.az.gov
928-679-7459
I am writing to let you know of an upcoming opportunity to volunteer your time and services to a very important Project, coming up, in Flagstaff.
Flagstaff Project CONNECT (FPC) is part of a nationwide movement to:
• Increase access to services for people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless
• Engage the community in finding a solution for homelessness
• Offer our community a one-day/one-location in which individuals and families who are without safe and stable homes can address basic needs and access critical services
• Engage and increase the involvement of individual volunteers, government, the faith based, the business and non-profit community to work together to provide access to services and long term solutions for people who are homeless and/or low income.
FPC is a one stop-shop serving near homeless/homeless with necessary services, including legal aid, immunizations, counseling services, job workshops, clothing and food, to name a few!
The next Flagstaff Project CONNECT will be held Saturday, March 26th, from 9AM to 2PM at Flagstaff Middle School. To make Flagstaff Project CONNECT a success, we need volunteers to help act as Guides, assist with Daycare or food service. There will be a training/orientation on Friday, March 25th at 5:30 PM at Flag Middle School to get you acquainted with how FPC works and what might be required of you!
Volunteering has always been an important aspect of my life – it has been a way to not only give back to the Community that supports me and my family, but also gives back to my heart, in being able to assist those who might need help.
I thank you in advance for considering Flagstaff Project CONNECT as a way to give back to your Community, and support those who simply need a little support during these times. If you are interested in donating your time and talent to our Project, please connect with me at the information, below.
Best,
Sara Herron
Community Organizer
Coconino County Community Services
sherron@coconino.az.gov
928-679-7459
NORTHEAST REGIONAL MANAGER
First Things First (AZ Early Childhood Development and Health Board), is a public agency that exists to increase the quality of, and access to, the early childhood development and health system that ensures a child entering school comes healthy and ready to succeed. Passed by voter initiative in 2006, First Things First operates through a tax on tobacco products. Governed by a state board and thirty-one Regional Partnership Councils, First Things First is a decentralized organization that engages diverse constituencies to accomplish its mission. Organizational values include a focus on accountability, transparency, coordination, collaboration and on the outcomes that will ensure young children start kindergarten ready for school and life.
Job Summary:
This position is responsible for the management and oversight of the day-to-day operations of the Northeast Regional Area Team, working directly with the Coconino, Navajo Apache, Navajo Nation, and White Mountain Apache Tribe Regional Partnership Councils.
Office Location:405 North Beaver Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Distinguishing Characteristics:
The Regional Manager's role is to ensure the efficient operation of the four Regional Partnership Councils and associated programs under his/her responsibility. This includes the development and implementation of strategic long-range plans that promote the following program goals: increase access to and quality of early childhood development opportunities; increase access and quality of preventive health programs and health screenings; and provide training and education to support early childhood providers. The position requires substantial effort to support and enhance the Regional Coordinators to coordinate and effectively work with parents, community leaders, local, state and federal government officials, tribes, private entities and faith based groups to improve the quality and access to early childhood development and health programs to effectively prepare children to start school ready to learn.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities:
• Management of the Northeast Regional Area Team serving Coconino, Navajo, and Apache Counties, and the White Mountain Apache Tribe and Navajo Nation regions including continuous education, coaching, mentoring and supervision of staff.
• Serve in the roles of facilitator, consultant and advisor to the 4 eleven member Regional Partnership Councils.
• Oversight of the core functions of the Regional Councils including the regional funding plans and annual allocations totaling $8 million, community assessments, strategic planning and implementation, fiscal and grant management, and community outreach.
• Ongoing communication and partnership with all of the tribes of the region including the White Mountain Apache Tribe, Navajo Nation, Havasupai Tribe, Hopi Tribe and Kaibab Southern Paiute Tribe, following tribal protocols and procedures to advance the services and programs determined by the Regional Partnership Councils.
• Recruitment of Regional Partnership Council members.
• Coordination and collaboration with local and statewide partners across the public and private sectors and the tribes.
• Development and implementation of strategies to address the overall strategic direction of FTF and the Regional Councils by integrating principles of system building and best practices, and building from the assets of the communities.
• Analysis and synthesis of fiscal and data reports.
Qualifications:
• Masters degree in early education, social work, education, health or other related field preferred.
• Have a background of progressively responsible managerial or leadership positions in public, private or non-profit organizations, preferably with such experience in the area of providing early childhood development and/or health services to children and families.
• Possess a thorough knowledge of early childhood development and health issues, with preferred knowledge of the particular issues facing Arizona today and tomorrow as a plus. Also demonstrate an ability to develop successful strategies to address those issues.
• Possess a demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic long-range plans that promote program goals and outcomes.
• Possess a collegial leadership style and an ability to work effectively with staff, parents, community leaders, local governments, tribes, public and private entities and faith-based groups to improve the quality of and accessibility to early childhood development and health programs in the region.
• Exhibit highly-developed interpersonal relations and communications skills, able to effectively articulate and rally support for program goals and outcomes.
• Demonstrate an ability to synthesize various information and perspectives and formulate approaches and solutions to address the various and diverse needs of the regional area.
• Have competence in working effectively with a citizen governing board and volunteers to advance the strategic direction.
• Possess a proven record of leadership successes.
• Demonstrate ability to ensure public accountability as well as measure and improve outcomes appropriate for program goals.
• Demonstrate knowledge, skill and success in generating financial support from both the public and private sectors.
• Show a commitment to uphold high ethical standards and promote sound business practices.
• Be familiar with the Northeast Regional Area that includes Coconino, Navajo, and Apache Counties, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Hopi Tribe, Havasupai Tribe, Kaibab Paiute Tribe and Navajo Nation.
Review of resumes will begin on March 7, 2011 and continue until the position is filled. For consideration, please submit your cover letter, comprehensive resume and three professional references by March 6, 2010 to:
www.azstatejobs.gov
In the AZ State Personnel System, the position is classified as a Grade 25 with a salary range of $55,600 to $85,000. The position is not covered under the State of Arizona Merit system rules. The State of Arizona offers an outstanding comprehensive benefits package.
NARBHA Recovery Open House
Recovery Open House
Thursday, March 17, 2011
12pm to 2pm
N A R B H A
1300 S. Yale Street, Flagstaff, Arizona
Information about NARBHA Community Opportunities
• Meet n’ Greet
• Refreshments
Call 928-774-7128 for more information.
Team USA Arizona Athletes Visit Sechrist for Love of Reading Week
Team USA Arizona members attended Sechrist Elementary School's 'Fun Run' during their Love of Reading Week. The theme was 'Reading is a Ball' with the emphasis being on sports. Team USA members introduced themselves to the students and described their love of reading. The students then ran laps around the snow-covered field while Team USA cheered them on with high fives and a tunnel of encouragement.
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