November 30, 2021
Omicron Variant Causes Government to Close US Entry from Seven African Countries
In November, President Biden permitted resumption of international travel into the United States for fully vaccinated travelers. Since then, the emergence of the omicron variant has resulted in the President ordering a halt to travel into the United States from seven African countries, including South Africa. The news brings to light the ongoing fragility of the international tourism ecosystem.
We will keep you advised of any government policy adjustments that may impact your business operations, the travel industry and the health, safety and tourism economy of Red Rock Country. The Arizona Office of Tourism’s information page has testing resources and other useful information to assist our international guests. The US Travel Association is also a good resource for current travel industry news.
Your laid off unpaid employees can begin the process of applying for benefits at AZUI.gov
NOTE – the Northern Arizona Council of Governments recommends entering COVID-19 as the ‘Reason for Separation’ if it pertains.
Your laid off employees can get help navigating the services above by calling NACOG’s West County One Shop at 928.778.1422 or 928.308.4832, or the East County One Stop at 928.649.6867 or 928.649.6868, or visit their websites: nacog.org and yavapaiatwork.com.
Vaccine Distribution
Make an appointment and stay updated on vaccine allocations, administration and locations in Coconino County and Yavapai County Health Department websites. To find COVID-19 testing sites near you, put in your ZIP code at Arizona Department of Health.
Are your Sedona | Safe.Clean.Ready messages readily visible to your customers? Now is a good time to check and if you need additional or replacement posters, you can download them here. Let’s not let our guard down.
SBA Disaster Loan Update
The SBA is accepting applications for the EIDL Loan and Advance Programs. Check it regularly. Non-profit organizations are also eligible for SBA Disaster Loans. Nonprofits should contact Northern AZ SCORE and United Way of Yavapai County for assistance.
Take Advantage of Promotional and Marketing Opportunities
Please visit the Benefits of Partnership page to see all your Sedona Chamber benefits including ways to promote your business with free and paid opportunities.
Arizona Commerce Authority Small Business Webinars
The Arizona Commerce Authority is continuing its popular webinar series. Check out free webinars on a host of ways to improve your business performance.
The Arizona Office of Tourism Provides Guidelines for Tourism Industry Businesses
- Reopening guidance for Pools
- Reopening guidance for Spas
- Reopening guidance for Retail Businesses
- Reopening guidance for Salons, Spas and Barber Shops
- Reopening guidance for Restaurants and Coffee Shops
- Reopening guidance for Visitor Centers
- Reopening guidance for Attractions
The Arizona Office of Tourism shared Travel-focused Pandemic Data Resources
- Coronavirus Travel Sentiment Index Report, Destination Analyst
- Daily Travel Index, Arrivalis
- Compilation of data resources by Miles Partnership
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) was awarded $289 million from the COVID-19 relief package passed by Congress. This funding will be used toward direct payments for rent, rental arrears, utilities, utility arrears, and other expenses related to housing stability incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Renters and landlords in the twelve Arizona counties listed can apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) using the online ERAP portal. Applications will be accepted through the program’s expiration on December 31, 2021 or until funding is exhausted.
Senior Core of Retired Executives Offer FREE Business Advice
Free SCORE business advisory services for COVID-19 business advice, and recovery planning. Contact Logan Enright at logan.enright@scorevolunteer.org
LOCAL ATTORNEYS EXPLAIN
Aspey, Watkins & Diesel PLLC explain topics to help businesses related to COVID-19
EMPLOYMENT & PAYROLL RELIEF
Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act from the US Senate
Click here for the Small Business Guide and Checklist, provided by the US Chamber of Commerce
VISITOR CENTER & CHAMBER OPERATIONS
Visitor Center: The Visitor Center at Forest and 89A is open 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Visit us at 331 Forest Road, Sedona
- Call 1.800.288.7336
- Email Info@SedonaChamber.com
Chamber Administrative Office: The Chamber offices at 45 Sunset Drive is open 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to Noon on Friday.
Please bookmark to regularly review and share the Sedona Travel Advisory page and our Updates to Sedonans.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS RESOURCES
City of Sedona
City of Sedona Covid-19 information and resources
County & State
Coconino County Health and Human Services information
Yavapai County Health Services website
Arizona Department of Health and Human Services information
Arizona Department of Economic Security
Unemployment Insurance Fact Sheet from the Department of Economic Security
