Welcome back, Jacks!
It’s been a big week for new Lumberjacks. When they weren’t toting luggage around campus and saying goodbye to loved ones, they were enjoying a Welcome Week full of music, games, meet-and-greets and more. Flip through a few photo highlights and watch this Welcome Week video.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is seeking input from the public and relevant stakeholders on proposed updates to the Engineering Design Standards and Specifications for New Infrastructure. The proposed updates to the design standards will allow fiber providers who have a franchise or license agreement that allows them to place facilities within city right-of-way to utilize a new technology known as micro-trenching as a method to install fiber.
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest will move from Stage 2 to Stage 1 fire restrictions, effective 8 a.m., Wednesday, August 27,due to widespread precipitation across all three districts of the forest.
Motorized closures around specific areas of the San Francisco Peaks, Marshall Lake area and Pumphouse Wash area will be lifted, and campers at developed recreation sites are allowed to burn campfires following proper campfire guidance.
Judge McVickers has devoted the vast majority of her professional career to serving the people of Coconino County in a variety of roles, including as prosecutor, public defender, private attorney and on-call judge pro tempore. Her wide-ranging experience includes work in civil, criminal, juvenile and family law matters, both locally and across the country.
Discover something new, deepen your creative practice, or reignite your artistic passion with one of our upcoming workshops at Sedona Arts Center. Here are just a few exciting classes you can sign up for now—and you’ll find our full lineup of workshops and events online at SedonaArtsCenter.org. Join us in the studio and be part of a vibrant community of artists and learners in the heart of Sedona.
BAER SAFETY MESSAGE: Everyone near and downstream from the burned areas should remain alert and stay updated on weather conditions that may result in heavy rains and increased water runoff. Flash flooding may occur quickly during heavy rain events be prepared to act. Current weather and emergency notifications can be found at the National Weather Service website. NWS Flagstaff, AZ
14th Annual Hopi Arts and Cultural Festival
Flagstaff Mall
Experience the incredible talent of Hopi artists through diverse artwork and captivating social dance performances. Sat. 10 a.m., Sun. 11 a.m. Free.
COCONINO COUNTY — Businesses impacted by the Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires can meet with representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration to learn about the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program and receive assistance with competing applications.
The SBA declared an economic disaster on Monday, August 18 and Coconino County Emergency Management and Economic Development teams along with Coconino County Supervisors have been on the ground since, finding dates, times and locations to host two SBA mobile service teams.
Highlights: On the northernmost portion of the fire, suppression repair work is nearly complete. Equipment operators are progressing toward the south to continue their work. Chipping groups are working across the west side, and hazard tree removal progressed on the southern portions of the fire. The Kaibab National Forest reduced the size of the temporary forest closure on the North Kaibab Ranger District on August 19, 2025. Western portions of the district are now open to public access and the closure boundary is comprised of a series of forest roads between the Jacob Lake area and Timp Point.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – A multi-agency Department of the Interior (DOI) Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team is beginning work this week to assess the impacts of the Dragon Bravo Fire on National Park Service and Bureau of Land Management lands. This process involves identifying the values at risk, determining any post-fire impacts to those values, and prescribing treatments to mitigate impacts.
FREDONIA — A U S Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team, led by Eric Schroder, has begun making burned area surveys of the Kaibab National Forest. BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape to determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow to values on National Forest System lands. If unacceptable risks are found the team recommends appropriate and effective emergency stabilization measures to reduce the risks to national forest lands and values. BAER emergency stabilization efforts are focused on the protection of human life and safety, property, and critical cultural and natural resources.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park’s South Rim will transition to Stage 2 water restrictions due to rising water levels in reservoir tanks.
Operational changes include:
Camper Services, operated by Delaware North, will reopen to the public.
Water spigots in Mather Campground and Desert View Campground will be turned on.
Despite these changes, water restrictions remain in place on the South Rim. Visitors and residents are urged to reduce water consumption by following these practices: flush toilets selectively, take shorter showers, wash clothes and dishes only with full loads and in eco-mode if available, and turn off the sink while brushing teeth, soaping hands, or shaving.
Good afternoon, Frank,
Dr. Eric Heiser has spent more than two decades in higher education, with the past three as President of Coconino Community College. His journey to the role wasn’t a straight line: in fact, he first tried his hand in the hospitality industry before a chance invitation to teach changed his career trajectory – and life – forever.
In our recent conversation, Dr. Heiser, a member of the ECoNA Executive Committee, shared how growing up on Wyoming’s Wind River Indian Reservation gave him a deep understanding of — and commitment to — diverse and often underserved student populations.
The County has updated the Plan and will hold public hearings this fall. Opportunities for public comment will be available during the public hearings. To submit written comments in advance email: mshaw@coconino.az.gov.
The 60-day review comments and the public hearing draft will be available on September 1, 2025. To view these documents:
“If you live on the Eastside or have a strong connection to this area, the artist team wants to hear from you,” said Jana Weldon, program manager for Beautification, Arts & Sciences. “This is your chance to share what makes this part of Flagstaff special.”
An online survey, open now through September 9, invites participants to answer a series of experiential questions designed to spark factual, imaginative, and community-rooted responses. Insights gathered will help the artist team develop a site-specific, one-of-a-kind artwork that reflects the spirit of the Eastside.
Two recent graduates and one faculty member won prestigious Fulbright Awards that will send them to three different continents for teaching and research. The Lumberjacks contended with a pool of 11,500 other applicants to land their awards.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Grand Canyon National Park has reopened sections of key corridor trails on the South Rim that were closed July 13, 2025, due to safety concerns following the Dragon Bravo Fire.
Effective immediately:
South Kaibab Trail is open from the South Kaibab Trailhead to Tipoff.
Tonto Trail is open from Tipoff to Havasupai Gardens.
Bright Angel Trail is open from the Bright Angel Trailhead to Pipe Creek Resthouse.
Discover something new, deepen your creative practice, or reignite your artistic passion with one of our upcoming workshops at Sedona Arts Center. Here are just a few exciting classes you can sign up for now—and you’ll find our full lineup of workshops and events online at SedonaArtsCenter.org. Join us in the studio and be part of a vibrant community of artists and learners in the heart of Sedona.
OCONINO COUNTY — Please join the Greater Flagstaff Forests Partnership (GFFP), Coconino County and your local fire departments/districts at five distinct community meetings in support of the development of a countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).
The dates and locations of each unique community meeting are listed below.
“As fire crews were on the ground, Coconino County was also thinking about economic recovery assistance for businesses who rely on tourism both on the North Rim and South Rim of the Grand Canyon,” said County Manager Andy Bertelsen. “The loss of the infrastructure at the North Rim and the fires impact on tourism have definitely affected the economy of northern Arizona. Coconino County took proactive steps to begin a process for federal resources to be made available to businesses throughout our county and surrounding counties.”
COCONINO COUNTY — Volunteers are still needed. We are very excited to be conducting a Summer 2025 PIT Count here next week! See the flyer and QR code attached or the link to view the sign-up sheet! Please note that shifts vary in both location and length of time. More details for each specific location are to come.
Highlights: The Kaibab National Forest is reducing the temporary forest closure on the North Kaibab Ranger Districts. Beginning Tuesday, August 19, western portions of the district will reopen to public access. The new closure boundary connects a series of National Forest System Roads (NFSR) between the Jacob Lake area and Timp Point. The boundary line was designed to maximize public access while providing for the safety of forest visitors and wildfire personnel.
Protecting the Grand Canyon’s water from fire
The Dragon Bravo Fire could threaten the drinking water supply for millions of visitors and thousands of workers at the Grand Canyon, but not if Abraham Springer has anything to say about it. With rapid-response funding from the National Science Foundation, the NAU researcher is working with Grand Canyon National Park, the U.S. Geological Survey and other colleagues to protect Roaring Springs, the park’s sole water source.
Audrey O’Connell speaks to the camera
Fit it in a Minute
with Audrey O’Connell
Have you heard about the Training Development and Technology Adoption services? O’Connell, the lead technical training analyst, explains how the TDTA team creates training materials that support the NAU community. Can she fit it in a minute?
We want to hear from you! The City of Flagstaff seeks community input for a landmark three-dimensional artwork to be installed at the promontory at East Cedar Avenue and North West Street as part of the Spruce Wash Wedge Detention Project. If you live on the Eastside, or have a strong connection to this area, this is your chance to share what makes this part of Flagstaff special.
An online survey, open now through September 9, invites participants to answer a series of experiential questions designed to spark factual, imaginative, and community-rooted responses. Insights gathered will help the artist team develop a site-specific, one-of-a-kind artwork that reflects the spirit of the Eastside.
Creative Flagstaff is thrilled to announce that ARTx: Art + Ideas Experience is back for 2026 — and we’re once again offering funding to bring bold, creative ideas to life in Flagstaff! Thanks to $125,000 from the City of Flagstaff’s Bed, Board, and Beverage tax revenue, this marks the 4th year of funding for artists through ARTx.
The 2026 biennial event will light up Flagstaff May 1–3, 2026 with a multi-day celebration of performances, exhibitions, installations, activations, conversations, and community gatherings — plus additional ARTx moments all year long during First Friday ArtWalks.
We’re looking for individual artists, creative collaborations, and organizations ready to dream big. Whether your work thrives on the street, in a gallery, outdoors, or in unexpected places, ARTx has a space for you.
F3 is excited to introduce the first speaker in our new Community Speaker Series!
This series will focus on bringing people to Flagstaff who will provide important ideas about how we can build a resilient community.
F3’s speaker series is timed to coincide with the Flagstaff community’s review of the city’s Draft Regional Land Use Plan. Public review of the Plan started this month and will continue until May 2026, when Flagstaff residents will have the opportunity to vote on it in a special election.
FLAGSTAFF — April 15, 2025 marks Steven Bonilla Peru Day! The Coconino County Board of Supervisors on Aug. 12 proclaimed this day in honor of former County Manager Steve Peru. Over 35 years at the County, he served twice as the County Manager and held a variety of leadership roles including Finance Director, Elections Director, Clerk of the Board and Deputy County Manager.
Peru was also awarded the inaugural Medal of Merit, an award recognizing outstanding and meritorious contributions to the people of Coconino County.
SEDONA — Firefighters working on the Woods Fire have been successful in suppressing and securing the perimeter around the wildfire, achieving 50% containment and will transition to a local Type 4 organization tomorrow morning.
A more accurate mapping of the wildfire located 2 miles east of the Village of Oak Creek puts it at 59 acres. It has been determined to be a lightning-caused fire.
High humidity provided favorable conditions for firefighters, allowing use of natural landscape and human-made barriers to keep the fire within its existing footprint.
Saturday, August 16
Mother Road Classic Car Show
Flagstaff City Hall Parking Lot
America’s Mother Road, US Route 66, celebrates its centennial in 2026, and Flagstaff fuels the party in 2025 with The Mother Road Classic. 8 a.m. Free
Brighty prepares for his journey to the South Rim, where he will be stored in the park’s Museum Collections until a decision is made on his future. Whether he will be restored to his former appearance or replaced entirely is still under consideration. (NPS Photo)
Highlights: Yesterday, containment of the Dragon Bravo Fire increased to 56%. More containment was gained on the Wahalla Plateau, Point Imperial and on the most northern tip of the fire. The National Weather Service Office in Flagstaff has issued a flash flood watch in the fire area between 10am and 8pm today. With safety being the top priority, crews will be ready to adjust to potentially dangerous weather conditions that may develop. To receive flash flood warnings on your cell phone or satellite device via the Grand Canyon River Alerts system. Text GCRIVERALERTS to 928-707-7842.
Apply for a Beautification in Action Grant
Artists, local businesses, nonprofits, schools, and community groups—this is your chance to transform Flagstaff’s shared spaces. The City of Flagstaff, through the Beautification and Public Art Commission, is accepting Beautification in Action (BIA) grants of up to $8,000 for creative projects that add character and beauty to our community. Eligible projects must be in publicly accessible locations and can include murals, sculptures, community or pollinator gardens, decorative benches, neighborhood pathways, and more.
Join us on Tuesday, August 26th at High Country Conference Center for a buffet breakfast and an inspiring panel discussion on youth mental health, spotlighting collaborative efforts to give adolescents the tools and resources they need to thrive.
Deadline to register is 5 pm tomorrow!
The kickoff marks the official beginning of our annual campaign to raise $1.2 million to fund efforts to increase youth opportunity, healthy communities, financial security and community resiliency in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.
Gov. Katie Hobbs, an NAU social work graduate, met with NAU leaders to discuss how the university is confronting the state’s healthcare worker shortage through academic programs, research projects and infrastructure improvements.
We are very excited to announce two upcoming events designed to promote literacy and leadership skills for our youth.
Later this month, we’ll hold our 2nd Literacy Fair, building on the success of the first one we held with the Literacy Center in February.
Then in October, we’ll have our inaugural Youth Leadership Conference for dozens of 9th graders in northern Arizona. Kristen Strauss, our Manager of Youth Programs & Education Initiatives, has all the details about both events below.
The public learned this week that Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) discussed their five-year priorities during a meeting held last Thursday with city and county leaders in Flagstaff. There, NAH announced the completion of a 2030 strategic plan.
Many thanks to KNAU Arizona Public Radio and the Arizona Daily Sun for covering the meeting and publishing online stories yesterday and today to inform the public of this recent information. The Arizona Daily Sun article can be viewed in PDF form here and here.
Both news stories indicate that NAH continues to evaluate five sites for a new hospital location, including an expansion of their current building on Beaver Street. NAH indicates they do not plan to build a “medical village” at the selected site as was their previous plan.
Additionally, NAH stated that Flagstaff Medical Center is not a community hospital any longer, but rather is considered by NAH and others as a regional referral center.
Date: Friday, August 15
Time: 10 – 11:30AM
FREE: Registration required
Start your morning with fresh coffee and fresh ideas at Coffee with Digitals.
Coffee with Digitals is a casual gathering that celebrates the vibrant intersection of art and technology. Hosted by Chris Johnson, Professor of Visual Communication at NAU, this monthly meetup invites artists, educators, and community members to connect around emerging digital practices—from animation and AR to AI and 3D modeling.
This month, Chris is joined by special guest James Peters, an Emmy Award–winning animation artist with nearly 30 years of experience. James has worked on iconic series such as Rugrats, The Wild Thornberrys, Futurama, and Rick and Morty, and has contributed to both Marvel and DC animated properties, including Young Justice—a show that redefined the standards of studio animation.
Our Gallery showcases the largest selection in Sedona of artwork by local artists. If you are seeking a rare piece of fine art, a gift of exquisite jewelry, appreciate stunning photography, or looking for a lovely keepsake from your visit to Sedona, the Arts Center has it all and more. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax – almost a 10% savings.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office and Sustainability Commission announce the opening of applications for the Flagstaff Sustainability Grants Program. The annual funding opportunity, formally know as the Neighborhood Sustainability Grant Program, will accept applications from Aug. 15 through Sept. 30, 2025. The competitive grant program provides funding up to $7,500 for sustainability projects that strengthen community partnerships and environmental stewardship within Flagstaff city limits. Eligible applicants include community groups, nonprofits, individuals, and businesses with projects that address key sustainability priorities. Priority focus areas include energy, community health and climate resilience, food, transportation, and waste.
Armed with sketchbooks, theory and a healthy dose of curiosity, a group of NAU students set out across the Alpine region—not just to admire the landscape, but also to decode the invisible forces that have shaped art in the area for centuries.
COCONINO COUNTY — The public is invited to comment on three candidates for the Division 6 Judge Pro Tempore vacancy on the Superior Court in Coconino County.
The candidates are Jonathon Kircher, Roberta McVickers and Bryan Shea.
COCONINO COUNTY — Starting Monday, Aug. 18, the Coconino County Treasurer’s Office will be back in downtown Flagstaff for in-person services at 110 E. Cherry Ave. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The current location at Flagstaff Mall, 4650 N. N. US Hwy 89, will be open until Aug. 18.
“Having one office downtown with in-person services helps streamline our processes and will make doing business with the Treasurer’s Office simple and convenient for residents,” Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar said. “We will now have a one-stop-shop for employees, meetings, partner agencies and residents.”
Discover something new, deepen your creative practice, or reignite your artistic passion with one of our upcoming workshops at Sedona Arts Center. Here are just a few exciting classes you can sign up for now—and you’ll find our full lineup of workshops and events online at SedonaArtsCenter.org. Join us in the studio and be part of a vibrant community of artists and learners in the heart of Sedona.
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar and District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez attended the National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference to help pass important resolutions that could lead to changes both nationwide and locally.
NACo represents county officials from across the United States and provides counties a platform to advocate for policy changes at the federal level.
“As the manager of all county monies, I am concerned about fiscal policies that would impact federally awarded funds from reaching the county,” Treasurer Benatar said. “These funds help pay for the necessary services for constituents including maintaining public transportation and roads, operating public schools, enforcing building codes and providing public safety.”
Stained Glass Workshop
Saturday, Sept. 6 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
or
Sunday, Sept. 7 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Learn the fundamentals of stained glass art and create your own art piece to take home! This workshop fills up quickly – if full, add yourself to the wait list to receive advance notice of future workshops.
Carter is a Certified Emergency Manager with a master’s degree in emergency management and homeland security. He has more than 13 years of service with Coconino County and more than two decades of public safety experience.
“Tim has demonstrated leadership in disaster response, hazard mitigation, stakeholder engagement and public outreach,” Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen said. “He is a strong leader who excels in interagency coordination, and we are fortunate to have him on our team.”
The Public Hearing Draft of the Regional Land Use Plan 2045 (Draft Regional Plan) was recently released by the City of Flagstaff online (PDF here; this is a large file and may take some time to download). A take home hard copy of the Draft Regional Plan can be requested by emailing Elsa Erling at elsa.erling@flagstaffaz.gov.
We’re thrilled to share that we’re so close to reaching our goal to purchase brand-new seats for the Coconino Center for the Arts theater—but we need your help to get us across the finish line!
The current seats have been in use for over 40 years, and it’s time for a much-needed upgrade. With our concert season fast approaching, our goal is to have all seats sponsored by September 27 so the new seating can be installed in November. The photo below shows the modern, more comfortable seats we’ll install with your support.
GRAND CANYON — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park will implement water conservation measures for the South Rim of the park. These water restrictions are in response to a broken section of pipeline north of Phantom Ranch.
Water conservation measures require all park residents and visitors to conserve and reduce water usage wherever possible in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds.
Water conservation measures include:
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County will expand fire restrictions in coordination with the Kaibab National Forest.
Stage 2 restrictions will take effect on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 6:00 a.m. for all unincorporated areas within the boundaries of the Tusayan Ranger District and North Kaibab Ranger District.
Upon implementation of these new restrictions, all unincorporated lands within the boundaries of the Coconino National Forest and Kaibab National Forest will be in Stage 2 fire restrictions.
This Saturday, join us for the next workshop in our free Professional Development Workshop Series! Explore how nonprofits can leverage marketing strategies and AI tools to enhance outreach, engagement, and efficiency. Led by artist and designer Kayley Quick and marketing professional and theater leader Caitlin Burd, this session will provide practical insights into branding, content creation, and the evolving role of AI in nonprofit marketing. Whether you’re looking to streamline operations or strengthen your organization’s presence, this workshop will offer valuable takeaways for nonprofit leaders and creatives alike.
Fix-It Clinics are community-driven events that pair community members with knowledgeable volunteers who can help fix small appliances, clothing, electronics, and more! Join us for a day of hands-on sustainability and learn how simple repairs can make a big difference. Let’s work together towards a more sustainable Flagstaff.
This evidence-based training is designed for providers supporting birthing people and families—especially those serving underserved communities across Arizona.
Scholarships and travel expense reimbursement are available – please don’t let cost be a barrier! Please note: applicants must apply for a scholarship before registering. Can’t make Flagstaff, no problem – there quarterly virtual offerings too!
At the Museum of Northern Arizona, learning is at the heart of everything we do. As a new academic year begins, we’re excited to share opportunities designed to inspire curiosity and deepen connections to the Colorado Plateau.
First, we’re pleased to offer free admission to all Northern Arizona University and Coconino Community College students from August 15 through May 15. Simply present a valid student ID to explore exhibitions highlighting the science, art, and cultures of this remarkable region.
For younger learners, our elementary school tours offer hands-on experiences with real artifacts, interactive activities, and guidance from passionate educators and volunteers. Programs align with Arizona state standards, and grant funding is available to help with field trip costs.
To kick off the school year, we invite teachers and administrators to join us for Educators Night Out on August 20—a free evening to explore MNA, connect with peers, and discover how we can support your classroom goals.
For all lifelong learners, step out of the August heat and into the cool, welcoming environment of our exhibit galleries to explore the Museum’s latest offerings. Also, don’t miss a rare chance to go behind the scenes during our Easton Collection Center Open House on August 23.
Wishing you a month of discovery, inspiration, and meaningful learning!
FREDONIA — On Friday, August 8, the Forest Service will reopen a portion of the North Kaibab Ranger District, which has been closed in its entirety due to the White Sage and Dragon Bravo fires. In addition, Stage 2 Fire Restrictions will go into effect for the North Kaibab and Tusayan ranger districts.
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Attorney’s Office is proud to announce the creation of a Conviction Integrity Unit (CIU) to review post-conviction claims of actual innocence.
“Arizona law places special responsibilities on every prosecutor that continue even after a conviction. Those responsibilities require us to act when we encounter clear and convincing evidence of a claim of innocence,” Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker said. “The Conviction Integrity Unit demonstrates our commitment to those special responsibilities through a fair, thorough, and transparent process.”
Theatrikos Education Is Growing – Join Us This Fall
We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new season of youth theatre classes starting this fall! These classes bring an exciting new chapter in Theatrikos’s long-standing commitment to arts education.
Our expanded education program means more classes, more creativity, and more opportunities for young people in Flagstaff to build confidence, express themselves, and discover the joy of live theatre.
The Coconino County Comprehensive Plan Advisory Group (CPAG) is a temporary group, invited by the Board of Supervisors, that represents the diversity of the County. The role of the CPAG is to provide recommendations on the updated goals, policies, maps, and implementation strategies of the Comprehensive Plan Update, Envision 2045 to the Board of Supervisors, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and staff.
Our Gallery showcases the largest selection in Sedona of artwork by local artists. If you are seeking a rare piece of fine art, a gift of exquisite jewelry, appreciate stunning photography, or looking for a lovely keepsake from your visit to Sedona, the Arts Center has it all and more. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax – almost a 10% savings.
