Out of the blue, IKRC Grand Canyon recently received an invitation to attend a meeting of the Board of Supervisors of Coconino County, where the center is located, on the 25th day of February. There, to their delight, they witnessed the Board approving the following proclamation welcoming the opening of IKRC Crand Canyon:

"Whereas, Coconino County is proud to celebrate and recognize its growing and flourishing Buddhist American Community; and

"Whereas, one of the fundamental principles on which this Nation was founded is freedom of religion and respect for the religious beliefs of others, and

"Whereas, Coconino County is proud to support the Buddhist community and honor the contribution of the community to the diversity of our County and the richness of our peoples and

"Whereas, the Kadampa Retreat Center has enriched the lives of Buddhist residents, students, and community members, and

"Whereas, Kadampa Retreat Center supports international visitation to Coconino County, positively contributing to the continued economic success of Northern Arizona; and

"Whereas, the International Kadampa Retreat Center and the greater Buddhist community of Coconino County is embarking on a new era of expansion that will enrich Buddhist education, culture, and life with world-class facilities and educational programs, drawing visitors from around the world, bringing positive recognition to Northern Arizona: now, therefore,

"The Coconino County Board of Supervisors do proclaim the importance of the opening of the International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon and commend Kadampa Retreat for their significant contributions to Coconino County.

"Signed and sealed 25th day of February 2020

"COCONINO COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS."