Category: Youth

Community members learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, customs during ‘Ofrenda 101’ and ‘Halloween vs. Día de los Muertos’ presentations at the Flagstaff Public Library

FLAGSTAFF — Library patrons had the opportunity to learn about Dia de Los Muertos ofrendas, the meaning behind items on a family altar and other cultural customs honoring the dearly departed during a session presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raices at the Flagstaff Public Library on Oct. 5.

In preparation for its 20th annual Celebraciones de la Gente at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Oct. 21-22, Flagstaff Nuestras Raices has been presenting a series of information lectures for Coconino County employees and patrons at the Camp Verde Public Library.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raices President Lydia Anaya and treasurer Becca DeLapp presented the “Ofrenda 101” session, creating a temporary ofrenda in the library’s Community Room.
They presented information about the meaning behind the use of colored candles, marigold flowers, water, salt, and your loved ones favorite foods.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Recommitting to Positive Youth Development

focus to Stepping Up for Our Youth and Communities, we have successfully rallied around early childhood development with programs like KinderCamp™ and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.

This year with our annual campaign theme of United in Purpose – 365 Days a Year, we are recommitting to the goal of also supporting programs and initiatives that promote positive youth development and refocusing our efforts on a comprehensive approach that encompasses our youth from birth through early adulthood.

From the desk of:
Liz Archuleta
President & CEO

At our annual campaign kickoff last week, I had a chance to provide a detailed vision of how United Way of Northern Arizona can support our community and partners to foster opportunities for our youth at all ages. I envision it as a circle where we as a community wrap ourselves around our youth and can step in at any point of a youth’s development and make a difference.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 2-6, 2023

We’re getting a new look!

Beginning next week, the Grand Canyon Office of Communications will be transitioning to a new email distribution platform. The Wrap Up as well as news releases from our office will have a new layout and feel. If you are not receiving email communications from our office (through the Wrap Up or news releases), please check your junk email folder or email us directly at grca_public_affairs@nps.gov. 

The NAU Review — Our 2023 Homecoming Dedicatee!, Inclusive Insights and NAU’s role in solutions to housing challenges

On a quiet Tuesday morning, something special happened—the Office of Indigenous Student Success staff retreat was abruptly interrupted by a parade of cheering staff, students and media, there to name this year’s Homecoming Dedicatee: Sharon Singer Doctor. The director of Student Life Experience for Indigenous Student Success, Doctor has dedicated more than 29 years to NAU working in various departments on campus. As the Homecoming Dedicatee, she will participate in a number of events throughout the week of Homecoming, starting with a banquet held in her honor.

North Rim Transitions to Day Use Operations Beginning October 16, 2023

GRAND CANYON — Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim will begin day-use operations on October 16, 2023. Grand Canyon Lodge will close and no overnight accommodations, including camping, will be available to visitors to the North Rim. Visitors exploring the North Rim on, or after, October 16 should plan to be self-sufficient and bring enough food and water for the day. 

The following services will be available:  

The self-serve gas station, including diesel, will be available for as long as State Route 67 is open. It will only accept credit and debit cards.  
After October 31, water will only be available at the North Rim Backcountry Information Center.  

Coconino County Parks & Recreation October 2023 Update

Autumn in Coconino County

Autumn is a special time in Coconino County. From sunflowers to golden aspens, the landscape changes colors and welcomes many migratory animals. Coconino County parks and natural areas are great for autumn enthusiasts!

From wildlife watching to enjoying autumn gardens, Coconino County parks and natural areas have options for everyone.

Burning operations suspended on Cecil Fire, firefighters working toward containment

FLAGSTAFF — Cecil Fire managers will not resume firing operations on the 2,180-acre lightning-caused fire located southwest of Flagstaff, and have shifted to a strategy that will result in full containment as soon as possible.

The Cecil Fire is currently 0% contained and resources assigned to the Cecil Fire include four 20-person hand crews, 13 engines, a dozer, a water tender and miscellaneous overhead for a total of 147 personnel.

Fire managers for the Cecil Fire set early management objectives that included firing operations aimed at treating as much Coconino National Forest and Arizona State Trust land as possible during safe wind and weather conditions.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present ‘Ofrenda 101’ and ‘Halloween vs. Día de los Muertos’ workshops at the Flagstaff Public Library on Oct. 5

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces will present a “Ofrenda 101” workshop on from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday Oct. 5 at the Flagstaff Public Library, 300 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff.

Join us for two back-to-back presentations by Flagstaff Nuestras Raices:

OFRENDAS 101

Join us as we learn about the history of creating your own family ofrenda / altar and about the meaning behind the use of colored candles, marigold flowers, water, salt, and your loved ones favorite foods. The presentation will include the creation of an ofrenda!

HALLOWEEN vs DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS

Día de los Muertos is celebrated in México and many Latin America countries on November 2nd. Given that Halloween (October 31st), All Saints Day (November 1st) and All Souls Day (November 2nd) tumble into each other, the confusion between the celebrations is understandable. Come hear a brief history of these cultural traditions.

Guest contribution — Intelligent — Financial Aid Guide available for Hispanic and Latino Students

By Kristen Scatton, Reviewed by Dana Marvin Interviews with Dana Marvin Intelligent

No matter who you are, determining how to finance a college education is a complex decision involving many factors. For Hispanic and Latino students, specific considerations may include their citizenship and their parents’ citizenship statuses, their parents’ employment, and whether they’re the first in their family to attend college.

This guide is designed to help Hispanic and Latino students navigate the financial aid process, with a general overview of different types of financial aid, how to apply for federal student loans, and advice from college admissions counselor Dana Marvin.

It also includes information specific to Hispanic and Latino students, including grants and scholarships for different populations within these demographics, including Hispanic/Latina women, children of migrant workers, and first-generation college students.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up Sept. 25-29, 2023

Superintendent’s Corner: UPDATE-Potential Lapse in Appropriations

The federal government, including the National Park Service, is currently funded through midnight September 30. We remain hopeful that Congress and the President can agree on a budget or continuing resolution that would keep the government open.

Based on my time in Washington, I know that a lot of people in the Administration and in Congress are working to fund the government. However, if we are not funded by Sunday and there is a resulting lapse of appropriations, we will begin to significantly reduce operations of the federal government. We have experience in implementing an orderly shutdown, most recently in 2018-19.

If you are a resident of Grand Canyon, you will be able to stay in your assigned housing in the event of a lapse. Family and friends will be able to visit you, and you will be able to come and go from the park as you normally would. For those of you concerned about your personal finances if you do not get paid during a shutdown, Congress passed a law in 2019 requiring backpay for federal employees after a shutdown. You will get paid.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Join us Friday, Sept. 29 for Flagstaff Festival of Science ‘SCI Talks’

Inspired by the proliferation and success of TED’s winning formula for engaging, short talks in an intimate, fun setting, the Flagstaff Festival of Science presents the annual SCI Talks (Science, Communication, Innovation) event at the Coconino Center for the Arts. Since 2015, SCI Talks highlight local scientists and science educators sharing their research and innovative science communication ideas.

Quantum Scientist, Ines Montano, explains how we are on the precipice of a technological revolution. Ecologist, Jut Wynne, will share his experiences with caves from around the globe. Artist, Robert Long, highlights how his artwork gives underrepresented organisms louder voices and visually compelling self-worlds. Terra BIRDS founder, John Taylor, describes how his organization teaches environmental stewardship in schools through gardening.

Theatrikos Presents Romantic Comedy Stage Kiss Opens Oct. 6, Coco, other upcoming events

When two actors with a history are thrown together as romantic leads in a forgotten 1930s melodrama, they quickly lose touch with reality as the lines between offstage and onstage begin to blur. Stage Kiss (2011) walks a wobbly line between farce and romantic comedy with its play within a play.

“One of the most delightful things about this play is that it’s written for theater lovers,” observed Michael Rulon, sound designer/operator for Stage Kiss. “It examines love through the lens of theater, allowing the audience to peer behind the curtain not only of the plays-within-a-play, but also behind the curtain of the protagonists’ most private passions.”

The NAU Review — Ever wondered what a red worm lizard looks like? + art classes for kids + expanding a legacy of broadcasting at NAU

The secrets in a 240M-year-old tree of life

Squamates are among the most successful species on the planet. They’ve been evolving for 240 million years, including the mosasaurs of the Cretaceous Period and the lizards and snakes that populate Arizona—and the entirety of the planet—today, despite the extreme diversity of environments that exist. Biologist Marc Tollis is leading an NSF-funded project to sequence the complete DNA of 100 species in the Squamate order with the goal of uncovering what genes have contributed to their successful evolution.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Slight drizzle didn’t dampen excitement for families at Snook’s Science in the Park. More Festival of Science events to come

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

A slight drizzle on the first day of Fall didn’t dampen the fun when families came out to the annual Snook’s Science in the Park on Sept. 23, 2023 at Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff.

Part of the annual Flagstaff Festival of Science, which continues through Oct. 1, the park event featured a number of hand-on activities for young people.

Youth had the opportunity to explore life-saving medical devices with innovators and engineers under the W. L. Gore & Associates tents, view the talented athletes from Momentum Aerial as they leap and spin above the ground, with young people launching their own mini rockets and learning about the science behind rocket propulsion at the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth exhibit.

The 10-day festival features a mix of in-person activities, live streamed webinars and pre-recorded videos. A full listing of events is available by going to scifest.organd clicking on the 2023 digital passport. Events that require a reservation are denoted on the passport. 

All Festival events are FREE.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Plein Air in Open Spaces Now at Ponderosa High School

On September 30th, Plein Air in Open Spaces will now be taking place at the TerraBirds greenhouse at Ponderosa High School. Due to the forecast of inclement weather this weekend, this event will now be taking place at 2384 N Steve’s Blvd.

From 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., join Flagstaff Open Spaces for drawing and painting inspired by nature. Supplies will be provided. All ages and abilities are welcome! This event is free and reservations are not required.

New location: September 30th, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at TerraBirds greenhouse, 2384 N Steve’s Blvd.

The NAU Review — A new simulation lab, HR Professionals Day, video about Arizona’s water supply and a look back at NAU history

A state-of-the-art simulation lab, including high-fidelity simulation manikins, is giving students in health care programs unparalleled learning experiences in their fields. The lab allows students to mimic patient care before they actually get into internships and work with real patients. The manikins recently were used in an athletic training exercise as well; dressed in football uniforms and set up in the Skydome, student athletic trainers put into practice techniques they may one day use on real players on the sidelines of a sporting events.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — cience Bedtime Stories are now on demand for the family to enjoy!

Bring the family together and view this year’s on demand Science Bedtime Stories. In 2023, the Festival is proud to present the following four authors and their science books for kids!

Nancy Marshall reads her action-packed book A Rattler’s Tale: When Wild Animals Encounter Humans. Captivatingly illustrated by a fisheries biologist, discover what happens when a skunk meets Mom in the shed and when the mountain lion lands on the family car.

Monica Brown reads her coming of age story, Sharuko: el arqueólogo Peruano/Peruvian Archaeologist. Growing up in the late 1800’s, Julio Tello spent time exploring in the foothills of the Peruvian Andes. His bravery earned him the boyhood nickname Sharuko, which means “brave” in Quechua.

Rodo Safranac reads his illustrated story, The Red Tail Tale on the Arizona Trail.. In his book, Rowen, a young, red-headed explorer, and Rojo, a clever, red-tailed hawk meet, bond, and experience a wonderful adventure on the fascinating Arizona National Scenic Trail.

Don Lago reads All About the Grand Canyon. With rich storytelling about this natural wonder, our youngest science enthusiasts will also enjoy beautiful illustrations as they wind down to sleep.

Tune in and enjoy these special stories. Bedtime Stories is sponsored by Bright Side Bookshop. Bedtime Stories are filmed in Flagstaff by filmmaker Morgan Boatman of Winter Productions.

District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter

Dear District 5 Residents,

As the morning air becomes cooler and more refreshing, it signals that autumn has arrived. Use this opportunity to enjoy a bountiful harvest with your loved ones. Next month is the Navajo New Year -Gháájí, which means ‘The joining of season.’ It is a time for harvesting and getting ready for the upcoming season. This year, preparing for inclement weather during the colder seasons is crucial. It’s critical for our communities to take essential measures to ensure safety, security, and structure. Before traveling, please seek weather advisories. Start preparing your homes for the cold by weatherizing them for safety and comfort.

Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Workshops/Classes in Sedona!

UPCOMING School Offerings
Taking Classes and Workshops on our campus in Uptown Sedona affords the opportunity not only to explore the arts, but also to meet new people and immerse yourself in the Sedona arts community. We also have a variety of online workshops as well.

Besides what you see in this email, there are more offerings on our website. 
Click here to see all of our classes and workshops.

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces takes trip south to teach Ofrenda 101 lesson at Camp Verde Community Library — Presentation reported in the Camp Verde Journal. Click here to see the entire story

FLAGSTAFF — In preparation for upcoming Dia de Los Muertos celebrations in the region, members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces took a road trip south to teach an “Ofrenda 101” workshop at the Camp Verde Community Library on Sept. 15.

Community parents and children learned the basics of creating an ofrenda / altar, the placement of colored candles, family photos, favorite foods and other items on an ofrenda.

The library, which created its own ofrenda, is presenting a series of workshops and programs ahead of the annual Dia de Los Muertos Celebration from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 5 at the Phillip England Community Arts Center, 210 Camp Lincoln Road, Camp Verde

Northern Arizona University kicks off the start of Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept. 15 with its inaugural Celebración de NAU

FLAGSTAFF — Northern Arizona University kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month with its inaugural Celebración de NAU held Friday, Sept. 15 at the NAU Field House. Several hundred students, NAU faculty, staff and administration members, along with members of the pubic,…

CCC to receive up to $4 million to attract male high school students to higher education

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Community College has received the largest donation in the college’s history to attract male high school students to higher education.

A private donor has offered the college $1 million per year for four years to achieve the goal.

“This transformational gift will allow us to blaze a new path forward and open the doors of higher education for students who may not have been considering going to college,” said Dr. Eric Heiser, President of CCC. “With the resources that this gift will provide, we will be able to focus specifically on those male students who have not re-engaged with community college since the onset of the pandemic.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 18-22, 2023

Federal agencies need appropriations to operate. You may have seen news accounts as we approach the new fiscal year of the possibility of a lapse in appropriations, which would lead to a government shutdown. Based on my years as the senior appropriations lawyer for the Department of the Interior, I can tell you that a lot of people in the Administration and Congress are working hard to avoid a shutdown.   

The Park Leadership Team and I are watching this situation closely along with our regional and Washington office colleagues. We will be ready if there is a shutdown.

I understand that many employees depend on their biweekly paycheck to meet their families’ expenses and there may be some anxiety about the possibility of a shutdown. In case it helps, in 2019, Congress passed the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act ensuring full pay for federal employees during government shutdowns. Everyone will be paid, and retroactive pay will also reflect what is typically withheld from checks such as rent, insurance and retirement contributions. 

For the time being, park operations are continuing as normal, and we encourage you to check on our park website at www.nps.gov/grca for the most up to date information on park operations. As we get additional information from the Department, we will keep employees and residents updated through this newsletter and the weekly employee, community, and stakeholder call. Thank you to all employees who have been fielding visitor questions and concerns over the last several days; it is important work that you do. 

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Science Bedtime Stories are now on demand for the family to enjoy!

Bring the family together and view this year’s on demand Science Bedtime Stories. In 2023, the Festival is proud to present the following four authors and their science books for kids!

Nancy Marshall reads her action-packed book A Rattler’s Tale: When Wild Animals Encounter Humans. Captivatingly illustrated by a fisheries biologist, discover what happens when a skunk meets Mom in the shed and when the mountain lion lands on the family car.

Monica Brown reads her coming of age story, Sharuko: el arqueólogo Peruano/Peruvian Archaeologist. Growing up in the late 1800’s, Julio Tello spent time exploring in the foothills of the Peruvian Andes. His bravery earned him the boyhood nickname Sharuko, which means “brave” in Quechua.

Discover Flagstaff — Keynote Presentation: The Mammoth World of Science, Ardrey Auditorium – NAU on Sept. 22

Join Dr. Beth Shapiro, pioneer in ancient DNA, as she unveils the science and ethics of de-extinction in a captivating keynote presentation. 7 p.m. Free. (Editor’s note: Part of 10-day Flagstaff Festival of Science Sept. 22 through Oct. 1, including Science in the Park at Wheeler Park on Sept. 23)

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y supports positive experience for families at Flagstaff Festival of Science (Sept. 22-Oct. 1)

“The Mammoth World of Science” is the theme of this year’s Flagstaff Festival of Science (Sept. 22 through Oct. 1, 2023).

This year’s theme has been designed to showcase the fascinating research and scientific discovery of Beth Shapiro, PhD, who will give the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 at the Ardrey Auditorium at Northern Arizona University, 1115 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff.

Shapiro, a pioneer and global leader in the high-profile field of ancient DNA, will share her expertise on the science of de-extinction.

Click here to see ticket availability. All Festival events are FREE.

Read More

District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — August/September 2023 District 1 Newsletter

Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Grand Canyon National Monument-Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni
Short Term Rental Ordinance Passed
County Strengthens Dark Sky Zoning
Lowell Observatory Reaches for the Stars with Astronomy Discovery Center
It’s Time for Rural Groundwater Management
Flagstaff Community Meeting on Spruce Watershed/ Museum Fire Update
Senator Sinema Meets to Discuss Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection
Tusayan Experiences Unprecedented Rainfall and Flooding
Mountain Line Bus Awarded Federal Grant for Bus Maintenance Building
Williams Senior Center Celebrates Re-opening of New Kitchen
Congressman Eli Crane Joins Flagstaff and County for Flood Mitigation Tour
Envision 2045 by Participating in the 2025 County Comprehensive Plan
Veterans Helping Veterans: Matthew J. Boehner Memorial Williams Stand Down
74th Annual Coconino County Fair
Community Events and Resources

The NAU Review — NAU welcomes Flinn Scholar Michael-Anthony Rodriguez to Class of 2027

Freshman Michael-Anthony Rodriguez might be a biology teacher. That’s his game plan for now, at least—he’s passionate about education and ensuring students from rural areas have access to the educational experiences that will help them succeed. But he’s at NAU to learn who he is as well, and the prestigious Flinn Scholarship will help him get there.

W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation on Sept. 22 with Speaker, Dr. Beth Shapiro

Since 1990, when Michael Crighton’s blockbuster “Jurassic Park” was first published—then brought to life on the big screen by Steven Spielberg in 1993—the prospect of cloning dinosaurs and other prehistoric animals such as woolly mammoths has captured our collective imagination. Although heavily fictionalized, Crighton’s story was based on actual work being done in the fledgling field of ancient DNA at the time, which began with the first study of DNA isolated from the remains of animals that used to be alive, which was published in the scientific journal Nature in 1984.

Dr. Beth Shapiro, herself a pioneer in the field of ancient DNA, will deliver the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation on Sept. 22 to kick off the 10-day Flagstaff Festival of Science. 

A Journey of Resilience: Yolanda Yazzie’s Path to Success at Coconino Community College

FLAGSTAFF — Yolanda Yazzie, a student at Coconino Community College (CCC), is not just pursuing an education; she’s forging a path from adversity to ambition, driven by a deep sense of purpose and a desire to give back to her community. Yazzie has dealt with abusive parents. With the foster care system. With poverty and hunger. Now, as a parent herself, she is committed to helping others, and she has dedicated herself to improving her life with a career in the Hospitality industry by embarking on a journey of education beginning at Coconino Community College.

Like many young Navajo children, she grew up facing the harsh realities of poverty and the burden of an unstable home environment marred by abusive parents. It was her aunt who stepped in as a guiding light, raising her alongside her own children.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 11-15, 2023

Governor Katie Hobbs visits Grand Canyon

Governor Katie Hobbs and Arizona tribal leaders met in the park this past Tuesday, September 12, to foster meaningful dialog about Arizona’s economic development and how to best work with tribal governments and communities. Superintendent Ed Keable and Grand Canyon Conservancy CEO Theresa McMullen participated in the meeting, discussing the work the park and GCC are doing relative to indigenous programs.

The highlight for most participants was getting a tour of the work being done at Desert View to re-imagine the site as an Inter-tribal cultural heritage site.

Thanks to all who helped make this a successful visit, especially the Desert View staff and FMD folks (trails) who are working on the next phase of paving the new trail system.

You can learn more about Gov. Hobbs’ visit and its purpose on her website.

CCC Community Education — October Community Education: Antarctica | Crochet | Brave the Wild River | Pad Thai | Star Party | Utah War of 1857

September programs…starting soon!

Comet Talk: Adventures of a 1901 Toledo Steam Car
Monday, Sept. 18
6 to 7 p.m.
Learn More

Reading and Composing Poetry
Tuesday, Sept. 19, 26, Oct. 3, 10
5 to 6:30 p.m.
Learn More

A Jungian Journey to the Creative Self
Wednesday, Sept. 27, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25
5 to 7:30 p.m.
Learn More

String Art Workshop at CCC’s Page Center
Wednesday, Sept. 27
6 to 8:30 p.m.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y seeks to connect community with help through variety of resource guides

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — Whether it’s connecting families with local representatives from the Coconino County Health & Human Services’ Women’s, Infants and Children (WIC) program, to helping foster care families learn about potential scholarship programs for their youth, resource guides provide a valuable assistance to residents throughout Coconino County and Northern Arizona.

To spread the word about these valuable information options, CCC&Y has compiled a listing and link to a variety of resource guides throughout the region including CCC&Y’s created Page/Fredonia and Tuba City resource guides and the recently updated Williams Area Community Resource Guide.

Do you have a new or updated resource guide you would like to add to our listing posting? Please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org

Read More

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Reserve your spot for Festival events!

The moment you’ve been waiting for! All events requiring reservations now have reservation links live. It is so easy to book your spot, but don’t delay! Many events have limited spaces.

Just go to the App or the website calendar, locate the event you’d like to attend, see if reservations are required and follow the link or instructions to secure your spot.

Remember, free tickets to the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation with Dr. Beth Shapiro are also available on a first-come, first-served basis. Make your booking online.

Looking forward to seeing you this year for the 34th year of the Flagstaff Festival of Science!

September at the Museum of Northern Arizona

Message from Mary –

The Museum of Northern Arizona turned 95 last week, but we’re not stopping to reminisce about the past. There is too much to look forward to this month, with a new exhibition opening, a harvest festival and market in the garden, the launching of a new series of talks on cultural appropriation, and a free day at the museum as part of the Festival of Science.

So many of the events this month reflect MNA’s many community collaborations. For the exhibition Seeing People Through Trees: A Human History of the Forest we worked with Coconino National Forest, NAU School of Forestry, Fort Valley Experimental Forest, and Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. For a third year, Flagstaff Foodlink organized the Harvest Festival and Indigenous Farmers Market at the Colton Garden. We’re partnering closely with the Sedona Arts Center to put together the series of panels on appropriation. And of course Flagstaff Festival of Science is a longstanding community event.

When MNA opened 95 years ago, many of those other organizations didn’t exist. It’s wonderful to be part of an institution that has been a foundation of the cultural life of Flagstaff for so long, and continues to be integral to the community.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Sedona Arts Center — Upcoming Art Workshops/Classes in Sedona!

Taking Classes and Workshops on our campus in Uptown Sedona affords the opportunity not only to explore the arts, but also to meet new people and immerse yourself in the Sedona arts community.

Besides what you see in this email, there are more offerings on our website. 
Click here to see all of our classes and workshops.

Community comes out to celebrate, educate and inform at the 74th annual Coconino County Fair

FLAGSTAFF — The community came out to celebrate, educate and inform at the 74th annual Coconino County Fair held at the fairgrounds at Fort Tuthill County Park.

Members from the Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and other diversity council members — the African Diaspora Advisory Council and the Indigenous Peoples Advisory Council — greeted the public near the main gate at the Coconino County information Booth.

Visitors then had an opportunity to enjoy a variety of concerts during the day featuring Sol Over Luna and Grupo Conceptos.

The day was capped off with an overflow crowd attending the Selena Forever Tribute, which was introduced by District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez.

See slideshow here

Presidential investiture ceremony at CCC Friday, Sept. 29

FLAGSTAFF — The formal investiture ceremony for Coconino Community College President Eric Heiser, Ph.D., will take place at 2 p.m., Friday Sept. 29.

“I’m excited to serve as the sixth president of Coconino Community College and to be a part of CCC’s newest chapter,” Dr. Heiser said. “As Coconino County’s community college, we know the vital role we play in providing an educated and skilled workforce to our community partners, and we take our role seriously.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Sept. 4-8, 2023

Water conservation measures remain in place for South Rim as tanks fill 

On Tuesday, September 5, park managers implemented mandatory water conservation for the South Rim due to diminished water supplies in the South Rim holding tanks. This week, crews began to successfully pump water from Roaring Springs to the South Rim to replenish water stores. If tanks continue to fill, the NPS Water Utilities team anticipates being able to lift water conservation measures as early as next week. As a reminder, the following measures are in place for residents and all facilities on the South Rim. 

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y supports positive experience for families at Flagstaff Festival of Science (Sept. 22-Oct. 1)

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

Resilience is not something we expect from children it is something we support in children, families, and communities. Making sure every child and family has the opportunity for exposure to science, role models, caring adults and a big world is what makes this so special.

We support the Flagstaff Festival of Science. Our child abuse prevention work underscores the need for these positive experiences in our community!

Visit us @ Science in the Park 9/23/23 and participate in the “Best 10 Days of the Year!!”

Schedule@scifest.org

Festival Calendar

The NAU Review — How NAU is bolstering Arizona’s utilities, meet ASNAU President Maria Emilia Machelor and registering your Homecoming parade float

Humans of NAU
with Maria Emilia Machelor

Machelor found ASNAU as a freshman. Now a senior—and president—she talks about how she got involved (and how you can too!), how travel continues to define her life and what she has in common with the blue macaw.
Read the Q&A

Sedona Arts Center presents ‘Celebrate Sedona’ free event on Sept. 6, and more news, events

View this email in your browser FREE EVENT Celebrate Sedona! Wednesday, September 6, 2023 4–6pm at Sedona Arts CenterSponsored by: City of Sedona Music by Traveler Artist Demonstrations, Free Food, Beer and Wine for Sale SAC Ceramics Department Demos &…

Coconino County Parks & Recreation 2023 Update

Book Corner

After a long weekend at the Fair, relax with a good book!
Were you inspired by the animals at the Fair and also want a cozy book for the transition to autumn? All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot is the classic, heartfelt story of a Yorkshire veterinarian.

Children may like the timeless tale of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf, whose story of being yourself rings just as true today as in the 1920s.

Teens and tweens may enjoy Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, the story of a farm pig’s unlikely friendship with a talented spider.
These and other great autumn reads can be found at your local library!

Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library — September is library card sign-up month!

September is library card sign-up month!
Visit the library to sign-up for a library card or get a free replacement card! One is never too young or too old for a library card. Check out all the fun for the entire family and spread the word to your friends and neighbors. 

Look at the special events and activities we have going on throughout the month including ones commemorating our new front entrance!

LIBRARY CARDS & SERVICES ARE ALWAYS FREE

The NAU Review — NAU students plant a flag in Belize, Notes from the President and Camp Chit-Chat

This summer, a dozen NAU students went to Belize to do research. It’s called Jungle Boot Camp, and Jut Wynne takes a group down every summer. But this group was special. A well-worn flag joined the group—it’s the flag of the Explorers Club, which has gone to the top and bottom of the world, into space and all over, marking expeditions that contribute to our knowledge of the world in which we live. Learn more about the research Wynne and his students conducted in this tiny Central American country that is rich in biodiversity.

Theatrikos Theatre Company — September Newsletter – Nonprofits Welcomed to Theatrikos

Soroptimist, Flagstaff Family Food Center, Chomsky School of Business, Sedona International Film Festival and Flagstaff Mountain Film Festival hold events this month
Theatrikos’ mission, of course, is to present the best live theatre in Northern Arizona. But when we’re not having shows on the weekends, we like to invite other arts and non-profit organizations and help them with their mission. It’s all part of making our Flagstaff home a better place to be—and continuing to make downtown a vibrant part of the city.

This month we welcome the good folks from Soroptimist of Mountain Morning (9/9/23) and Flagstaff Family Food Center (9/7/23) for their fundraising events. We continue our successful partnership with Sedona International Film Festival (Wednesdays) and Mountain Film Festival (9/2/23). And Chomsky School of Business (9/1/23) once again performs in the new black box.

The public is welcome to all these events. Theatrikos loves supporting other organizations in Northern Arizona. Working together we raise all boats.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Tusayan Latest Focus of Our Safety & Security Efforts

Last week, the gateway to the Grand Canyon became the latest community in northern Arizona to be severely impacted by flooding.

After about three inches of rain fell on Tusayan, flooding ensued, causing a temporary closure of State Highway 64 and evacuations. The flood waters have receded, but many residents who live in employer housing in the town are dealing with damages to their dwellings.

United Way of Northern Arizona and its partners, along with the residents’ employers, are assisting during this time with resources so the residents can store their items and replace items that were lost while their homes are being repaired.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 28-Sept. 1, 2023

Volunteer Cleanup Day slated for Tusayan this Saturday

While the recent flooding in Tusayan was short-lived, residents are still cleaning up the aftermath.  But Tusayan is not just a town – it’s a community.  And members of a community take care of each other.  So on Saturday, September 2, the town is planning a Volunteer Day.

If you’re willing and able to help neighbors and residents rebuild and repair their property, come to the Tusayan Sports Complex at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 2.  If you need help with a project, contact the Town of Tusayan.

You can also apply for emergency assistance through Coconino County online.  Please apply before Friday September 1. 

There is still food and clothing available until Tuesday, September 4 at Tusayan Townhall.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Board member discusses access to quality, reliable child care in First Things First’s ‘Voices from Community Leaders’ forum video

Editor’s note: Laura Rosensweet, Community Impact Manager for Education Forward AZ, is a member of the Executive Committee of the Board for the Coconino Coaltion for Children & Youth. She appeared in the forum’s “Voices from Community Leaders” video along with Coconino Community College President Eric Heiser and Window Rock Unified School District Superintendent Shannon Goodsell.

By First Things First

First Things First recently gathered community members from northern Arizona to discuss how the child care crisis is impacting their local communities.

The Aug. 15 forum at Twin Arrows conference center outside of Flagstaff was the second of a planned set of quarterly forums to be held throughout the state on Strengthening the Child Care Workforce. The first forum was in Thatcher in eastern Arizona. …

Listen to Laura Rosensweet from Education Forward Arizona talk about brain development and how access to quality, reliable care makes a difference for early childhood learning, as well as its importance for working families.

The NAU Review — Welcome back, Jacks! Meet the new VP of inclusive excellence and discover some surprising good news about biodiversity

President Cruz Rivera welcomed students to campus in his annual first-day-of-class video message yesterday, and although Monday was the first day of school at NAU throughout Arizona and online, the Flagstaff campus has been humming with activity for a week as students moved into residence halls, got to know their classmates at Welcome Week activities, went to their first sporting events and donned blue and gold T-shirts for the Class of 2027’s Letters photo. It’s an especially exciting time at NAU, as the implementation of Access2Excellence has contributed to the most diverse, most accomplished and most Arizonan class NAU has ever welcomed. Take a look at the numbers for this class of Lumberjacks and find yourself and your friends in photos.