Category: Commentary

Flagstaff Navy Week coming up the week of Veterans Day. Also see: The Navy is in town and coming to MNA!

MILLINGTON, Tenn. — The U.S. Navy proudly announces Flagstaff Navy Week, scheduled for Nov. 9-16, 2026.

Led by the Navy Office of Community Outreach (NAVCO), Flagstaff Navy Week brings Sailors to engage directly with communities in Northern Arizona through a series of performances, educational activities, community events, and service projects.

“We have a great lineup of events planned for our first-ever Navy Week in Flagstaff,” said Cmdr. Rick Chernitzer, director of NAVCO. “In the spirit of Veterans Day, the centennial anniversary of historic Route 66, and our nation’s first ‘Dark Sky City,’ your Navy will honor past service members while engaging key community leaders, businesses, educators, students, and youth – possibly some future Sailors.”

Navy Weeks give Americans a firsthand look at the Navy’s mission, capabilities, and men and women who serve our nation around the world.

Flagstaff Navy Week participants and events are scheduled to include:

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Place your bids today and support the Festival of Science!

Auction Now Open! Bid Big for Science Education!

You don’t have to attend the Festival Fête to be part of the fun! Our online auction is officially open, and everyone is invited to participate.

With nearly 60 items up for grabs, there’s something for everyone—from unique experiences and gift cards to beautiful artwork and more. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, looking for the perfect gift, or hoping to win something special, your bids make a difference.

Get the latest news updates from U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) including — ‘Gallego, Kelly announce $9.6 million in investment to improve railroad crossing safety across Arizona’

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office of U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego

Get the latest news updates from Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes including ‘Attorney General Mayes Announces Distribution of $1.2 Million in Restitution to Veterans Deceived by VetLink Solutions’

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

Dear Museum Friends,

As we enter the season of giving thanks and gathering to spend time with friends and family, I want to share how grateful we are for your connection to MNA. It means the world to us to see you in the galleries and at our events sharing your favorite parts of the museum with your companions. November and December are times when we seek special connection with friends, family, or community. The Museum of Northern Arizona is the perfect place to visit at this time of year, whether it be with your friends, with family members, or seeking to connect with a community of people who enjoy shared interests. Our galleries and exhibitions offer special insights into the arts, culture, and science of the Colorado Plateau, and invite you to enjoy, reflect, and learn about this remarkable part of the world. In this newsletter you will see a range of special events that magnify that experience – come along and enjoy contemporary Native American art and performance; visit our gift shop to find a unique gift for that special someone; or enjoy a musical performance by the US Navy during Navy week. Above all, be sure to enjoy our newest seasonal experience, the Snowpine Model Railway, new for this year but set to become an annual seasonal favorite in Flagstaff.

Thank you for being part of the MNA community. I look forward to seeing you at the museum.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

City of Flagstaff facilities closed Nov. 2 for flood response. Also see: Numerous road closures in Flagstaff; avoid Trravel

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — All City of Flagstaff administrative offices and non-essential facilities will be closed Monday, Nov. 2 to allow emergency responders and employees to respond to the impacts of today’s flooding events. This includes City recreation centers, libraries, and the Flagstaff Visitor Center. The City of Flagstaff will reopen administrative offices and non-essential facilities on Tuesday, Nov. 3 and voting locations will operate as normal.

Road closures remain in effect around the community due to ongoing flooding. Emergency response crews are operating at capacity. To help keep resources available for emergencies and for your safety, please avoid travel.

Guest commentary — Domestic Violence support in Northern Arizona: Knowing where to start

When someone is coping with the effects of domestic violence, knowing that support exists and knowing where to find it can be two very different things.

That can be especially true in Northern Arizona, where the nearest provider may be miles away, transportation may be difficult or unavailable and smaller communities can make privacy feel more challenging.

As a therapist at Denova Collaborative Health, I’ve worked with people who knew they needed support but weren’t sure what that support looked like for them, where to begin or whether they were “ready” to ask for help.

The good news is that there isn’t only one way to start.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Festival News: Engage with Science Beyond the 10-days!

Catch up on the excitement of the Flagstaff Festival of Science anytime! Livestream recordings of science presentations and events are now available on our YouTube channel, making it easy to revisit your favorite moments or experience programs you may have missed.

Guest commentary — After a difficult wildfire season, supporting Northern Arizona’s first responders

For many people in Northern Arizona, wildfire season is something we watch closely from home. We check evacuation maps, follow road closures and wait for updates when smoke settles over the horizon.

For first responders, those same events can mean long days, dangerous conditions and repeated exposure to situations most people hope never to face – and it’s not just firefighters who are affected. They may be working directly on the fire line, but law enforcement officers, EMS personnel and other responders help with evacuations, road closures, medical calls and keep communities safe as conditions change.

The NAU Review — Strengthening Arizona’s economy, one worker at a time

Building Arizona’s rural healthcare workforce

More than $6.35 million in funding will help NAU students pursue careers in healthcare while addressing a critical shortage of health workers in rural, tribal and medically vulnerable areas of Arizona. The two awards to the College of Health and Human Services will provide more than $1.27 million in scholarships each year for the next five years.

United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) — Time Is Running Out to Register!

Northern Arizona is stronger when people and organizations work toward the same goal. That idea is at the heart of United Way of Northern Arizona’s 2026-2027 Campaign Breakfast, and time is running out to register.

Annual Campaign Breakfast

Thursday, October 29th • 8 am

High Country Conference Center

Grand Canyon Community Update – Oct. 22, 2026

Bright Angel Trail Closure Extended

Due to recent rockfall and ongoing trail work, Bright Angel Trail remains temporarily closed to foot traffic between the Mile-and-a-Half Resthouse and Havasupai Gardens. The closure will remain in place until further notice as crews continue clearing debris and stabilizing the area.

Stock traffic is expected to be delayed longer as trail work continues. Hikers should check the park’s Key Hiking Messages page for current trail status.

The NAU Review — From curse to cure

How did a curse transform into a cure?

A toxin once known mainly for making people dangerously ill is now used to treat migraines, muscle disorders and even wrinkles. By studying more than 1,000 strains of the bacterium that produces it, NAU Regents’ professor Paul Keim is shedding new light on the science behind Botox.

The NAU Review — A sea of blue and gold

From painting Flagstaff blue and gold to packed open houses, a community BBQ, the ASNAU carnival, an exciting Homecoming football game and more, campus was full of energy this weekend. Check out some pictures on Instagram.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Oct. 16, 2026

South Rim Water Treatment Plant Begins Testing with Bright Angel Creek Water

Big progress is happening on the South Rim. On October 15, we began bringing water from the Bright Angel Creek intake into the South Rim Water Treatment Plant for the first time. This is a major step toward a more reliable water supply for our community. 

Flagstaff City Council selects Moses Milazzo to fill vacant council seat

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The Flagstaff City Council has selected Moses Milazzo to fill the Council seat vacated by the resignation of Mr. Anthony Garcia. He will be appointed and sworn in during the Tuesday, Oct. 20 Council Meeting at 3 p.m. and will serve until December 2028.

Mr. Milazzo was selected through a competitive process that drew 28 applicants. Candidates submitted an application, letter of interest, resume, written responses to applicant questions, and provided a public introduction during a Council meeting. After an initial review of these materials, the City Council selected five finalists to participate in public interviews before making its final appointment. All materials submitted by candidates can be viewed athttps://public.destinyhosted.com/35247/agenda/.

The NAU Review — Cleaning up post-fire at the Grand Canyon + a transfer student’s story

Grand Canyon Semester students lend a helping hand on the North Rim 

As the 2026-27 year kicked off, students in the unique Honors College program Grand Canyon Semester spent two full days at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon clearing barbed wire that had been burned by the Dragon Bravo Fire. Their work didn’t just benefit public lands and wildlife—it also gave them crucial hands-on experience that could serve them well in their outdoor-focused careers. 

Sedona Arts Center — The Artists Are Arriving! Your Guide to Sedona Plein Air Festival 2026

The 22nd Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival is almost underway, and artists from across the country are arriving in Red Rock Country for nine extraordinary days of painting, creativity, and community.

Throughout the festival, artists will set up their easels across Sedona and the Verde Valley, capturing the changing light, brilliant colors, and breathtaking landscapes that make this place so inspiring.

And you’re invited to experience it all!

United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) Kicks Off Fundraising Campaign – Join Us on Oct. 29th!

I’m excited to share that United Way of Northern Arizona’s 2026-2027 Annual Campaign is officially underway.

This year, we’re working to raise $1.2 million to fund programs that increase youth opportunity, promote healthy communities, foster financial security, and strengthen community resiliency across Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.

Our theme this year is Give Where You Live. United at Its Peak. It celebrates the power of local giving and what we can accomplish in northern Arizona when we come together.

Guest commentary — When life feels like too much: Finding mental health support in Northern Arizona

Daily stress doesn’t always look like a mental health crisis. It can look like lying awake thinking about bills, losing patience with the people you love after a long day or feeling tired no matter how much you sleep.

Maybe you’re juggling work and family responsibilities. Maybe groceries and gas cost more than you expected again this week. Maybe someone you care about is struggling, and you have quietly taken on the responsibility of helping them, too.

Over time, those pressures add up.

On Oct. 10, World Mental Health Day reminds us to check in with ourselves and the people around us when life starts to feel a little too heavy. But how can you tell when it may be time for more support?

The NAU Review — A blue and gold Homecoming

Homecoming festivities start in two days, Jacks! Don your school colors and get ready for a weekend packed with pride, tradition and celebration, both on campus and throughout Flagstaff. There’s something for everyone, and new this year—campus open houses to learn more about campus spaces.

Celebrate NAU Hispanic/Latine Heritage Month Tailgate & Game on Oct. 10

FLAGSTAFF — Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and Alumni Day with a special football game and tailgate event against Montana at the Skydome. Tailgate for 150 people!

Members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) and other local community leaders and residents will be honored during the game.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Oct. 9, 2026

A Message to Our Grand Canyon Community: Every Drop Counts 

This community has met every challenge the canyon has thrown at it with grit and generosity. These past weeks have tested us, and you have answered with patience, cooperation, and care for one another. Thank you. 

As the park scales back the temporary resident water services starting Friday, Oct. 9, we want to acknowledge what you’ve already accomplished. You have adapted your routines, supported your neighbors and worked together to conserve water during Stage 4 restrictions.  

Sedona Arts Center — Sedona Plein Air Festival Begins October 16 — Reserve Your Place!, more events

For nine days this October, 26 artists from across the country will spread out across Sedona and the Verde Valley, painting the landscape as it changes around them—capturing the light, color and extraordinary beauty of Red Rock Country in real time.

And you don’t have to experience the festival from a distance.

This year, there are several special opportunities to join us where the painting is happening—from an evening among the vineyards at D.A. Ranch to an intimate private Sedona residence, or by picking up your own brushes and participating in the Community Paint Out.

Reserve your place now and be part of the 22nd Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival!

Coconino Center for the Arts — Life Update & Recent Highlights!

These last couple of months have been busy, filled with community, events, art, and Flagstaff fun. Thank you for your involvement in everything we do and for your continued engagement in art, science, and culture! Here is what has been happening at Creative Flagstaff and Coconino Center for the Arts:

Public Involvement Period Opens on Long-Term North Rim Recovery and Redevelopment Concepts at Grand Canyon National Park

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — The National Park Service invites the public to help shape the long-term recovery and future of the North Rim at Grand Canyon National Park by participating in a 30-day public involvement period beginning Oct. 6, 2026. 

Following the 2025 Dragon Bravo Fire and significant recovery work over the past year, recent flash floods have underscored the importance of resilient infrastructure, reliable utilities, public safety, emergency preparedness, and thoughtful long-term planning in this remote and dynamic environment.

Coconino County Parks and Recreation Newsletter-October 2026

Our newsletter has a new design, but it still brings you the same great news from Parks & Recreation.
The air is getting cooler, and Fort Tuthill County Park is the place to be this fall! From hands-on culinary classes and archery clinics to live music at the Pepsi Amphitheater, there is something for everyone this October. See what’s coming up in programs, events, and everything happening at Coconino County Parks & Recreation.

Autumn at the Museum of Northern Arizona

I know it’s been a little while since you’ve heard from me. It’s been a busy year here at MNA and we are preparing some very special experiences for you this autumn and winter. In addition to our new exhibitions and lively programming, we are introducing a new holiday experience in November that’s sure to become a favorite tradition in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona. There’s lots of information in this newsletter, so I invite you to take a moment and have a look at all that is happening here. Autumn is such a beautiful time in Northern Arizona. I look forward to seeing you at the museum.

Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s Voter Guide to State and Local Propsitions

F3’s Voter Guide is intended to help members of the Flagstaff community learn about and understand the propositions that will appear on Arizona ballots in the November 3, 2026 election. We are reviewing the recent release of FUSD’s voting pamphlet in order to make final recommendations for propositions 407 and 409. An updated voter guide will be available shortly.

Download the Voter Guide PDF automatically here, or click on the image below.

Important Dates for the November 2026 Election provided below.

City of Flagstaff — Community Feedback on Potential Drones as First Responders Program

FLAGSAFF — The City of Flagstaff is considering the addition of Drones as First Responders to the resources used in providing public safety to the community. The use of drones can improve response times due to their ability to move beyond traffic and trains. The drones create efficiencies by getting eyes on the ground quickly so the City knows what public safety resources are needed. Like body worn cameras, this drone footage will be beneficial evidence to support attorneys, judges, jury members, and victims.

City of Flagstaff honors Gene Munger with Memorial Plaque Dedication

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff invites the community to the unveiling of a memorial plaque honoring the late Gene Munger. The dedication will take place on Friday, Oct. 16, at 2 p.m. at Flagstaff Visitor Center, 1 E. Route 66. The event is open to the public.

“Thank you to the City of Flagstaff for this special dedication to Gene Munger,” said Molly Munger, Gene’s wife. “He would have been very honored by this recognition.”

The NAU Review — A discovery that might makes us rethink history

Rethinking history

An anthropology professor at NAU is helping rewrite history. Corina Kellner’s research into ancient sites and mummies in Peru could challenge what historians thought they knew about the Nasca civilization, the Wari Empire and how they interacted with each other.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coalition joins partners at 2026 Science in the Park

FLAGSTAFF — From astronomy to rocket science and everything in between, young people had a wide variety of hand-on activities to enjoy and learn from at the 2026 Snook Science in the Park presented on Sept. 26, 2026 by the Flagstaff Festival of Science.

More than 60 exhibitor booths crowded Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff as children had a wide variety of activities to choose from. Unofficially, more than 3,500 people attended the event, according to event organizers.

Some of the exhibitors ranged from The Arboretum, CCC&Y, Coconino Community College, the Coconino Astronomical Society, Coconino High School’s CocoNuts Robotics, Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition, Flagstaff Fire Dept., Lowell Observatory, Meteor Crater Education Alliance, Momentum Aerial, the Museum of Northern Arizona, Northern Arizona University, Riordan Mansion, Slide Rock State Park, Tynkertopia, to the U.S. Geological Survey.

READ MORE

The NAU Review — From Douglas to Las Vegas

A trail to healthier communities

A trail that will connect Arizona from the border town of Douglas to Bullhead City will open the door to outdoor recreation, better health, stronger communities and potentially higher property values. With the help of NAU faculty and both undergraduate and graduate students, the Sun Corridor Trail is closer to becoming a reality. 

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sept. 28, 2026

Community Potable Water Tank Update

The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team has updated the size and, in some cases, location, of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village in order to serve residents who have relied on the tanks during the current water emergency.

The potable water tank placement plan was developed with input from park leadership and based off usage reports. There are a total of 16 tanks at various locations, for a total of approximately 15,000 gallons. Although the total amount of water has been reduced, it still exceeds the average daily use of approximately 6,000 gallons per day.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Let’s connect a century of innovation, together!

Not To Be Missed: Snook’s Science in the Park

Driven by Curiosity comes to life at Snook’s Science in the Park! Explore more than 50 interactive exhibits for all ages featuring hands-on science activities, solar telescope viewing, aerial demonstrations, cool car photo ops, and much more. Fun for the whole family!

Join us at Wheeler Park on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10am – 2pm. FREE

Snook’s Science in the Park is generously sponsored by Northern Arizona Healthcare and Peak Engineering.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Give Like Dolly (and join us for coffee) on 9/25

Recently, the Dollywood Foundation – which runs Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – announced a new tradition to carry forward Dolly’s extraordinary legacy and her belief in giving back, especially to children. The first annual Give Like Dolly Day will take place this Friday, September 25th, and United Way of Northern Arizona is planning on honoring it in two ways.

First of all, check out that date, 9/25 (or if Dolly were singing it, “9 to 5”). In the spirit of that song, we invite you to join us for “a cup of ambition” at Cedar House Coffee Shop and Bakery (2009 E. Cedar Ave., Flagstaff).

Coconino Center for the Arts announces upcoming events

Saturday, October 3, 6:30 pm

Flagstaff Takes the Stage is BACK!

The Northern Arizona Theatre Alliance (NATA) is thrilled to announce the return of Flagstaff Takes the Stage on Saturday, October 3rd at the Coconino Center for the Arts!

Join us for a celebration of Northern Arizona theatre as we come together to announce our participating organizations’ 2027 seasons and give you an exciting sneak peek at what’s coming to local stages next year. Expect show announcements, snippets from upcoming productions, and plenty of reasons to get excited about another year of theatre in Flagstaff!

This is a FREE event, with opportunities to make a donation at the event. All donations directly support NATA and our efforts to strengthen Northern Arizona’s theatre community through resource sharing and collaboration.

While admission is free, seating is limited and tickets will be required.

Coconino County Health and Human Services seeks community input to inform programs and services

COCONINO COUNTY — In April, Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) launched the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) survey to help identify the health priorities, community needs, strengths and risk factors within Coconino County. To ensure that everyone has an opportunity to share their input, we’ve extended the deadline to take the survey to Saturday, Oct. 31.

The NAU Review — Is sci fi right about alien life? + meet the 2026 Homecoming dedicatee

Is a nearby advanced alien civilization out there waiting to pounce on Earth?

Unlikely, according to a new study led by Chris Doughty. (But … maybe?) The study proposes that potential evolution on exoplanets isn’t based only on time, but also on how much cumulative photosynthesis happens, so even if planets outside our solar system had life billions of years before Earth, life likely evolved so slowly that it’s still in the microbial stage.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sept. 19, 2026

Free community showers 

Free shower facilities are available to Grand Canyon residents until further notice. Residents are strongly encouraged to use these facilities whenever possible to reduce household water use and help conserve the park’s limited water supply. This week ADA showers were also placed at four locations throughout the park.

Grand Canyon National Park announces projected dates for restoring water to South Rim

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park today announced tentative dates for the restoration of water services to the South Rim residences and concessionaires within the park. 

Based upon construction timetables, the National Park Service Incident Management Team projects the park will be able to start pumping water by Nov. 16 from the Bright Angel Creek intake to the new water treatment plan. The National Park Service estimates distribution from the new treatment plant to residents will begin by Thanksgiving, allowing concessionaires to begin a phased approach to providing services to overnight guests at that time. These dates are tentative and residents and concessionaires will be notified as construction is completed. 

The NAU Review — Robotics on the Navajo Nation + can we forecast the next pandemic?

Igniting a love of STEM in Tuba City

They say success is nothing without someone to share it with. That’s certainly true in Tuba City, a small community on the Navajo Nation: Whenever any of its citizens score a big win, the town always shows up to celebrate. That’s why, armed with $50,000 from the National Science Foundation, researchers at NAU’s Center for STEM Teaching and Learning aren’t just partnering with Tuba City educators to improve STEM learning opportunities. They’re also working with town leaders to brainstorm ways to celebrate the kids’ success, from public robotics challenges to parades.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — APS Pledges ‘Responsible Growth’

At the recent annual conference of the League of Arizona Cities & Towns, APS President and CEO Ted Geisler reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to protecting reliability and rates for current APS customers while serving new companies and industries investing in the state.

The APS Pledge for Responsible Energy Growth comes at a time of increasing demand for centers that service cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other data-driven “extra-large customers.”

The pledge is built on three principals, Geisler said.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sep. 15, 2026

Efforts to restore the park’s water supply are advancing at the delta, where contractors used excavators to establish the footprint for the new water intake project. A wastewater treatment operator was also brought to Phantom Ranch to test the wastewater treatment plant as crews prepare to return the system to limited service. 

On the South Rim, the water treatment plant contractor is preparing to begin startup and testing once the new delta intake is able to provide raw water to the plant. The contractor is coordinating closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality as testing and the process to return the plant to service move forward. 

The NAU review — Level up in 2026-27: get care on campus, become a Teams power user + more

ew year, healthier you

Campus Health Services isn’t just for students—it’s also for faculty and staff! Now is a great time to establish care at CHS, whether you’re looking to schedule annual physicals and immunizations, renew your prescriptions, explore preventive health resources or even access urgent care.

Tynkertopia holding 8th Birthday Bash on Sept. 19

Tynkertopia Logo

You’re invited to Tynkertopia’s
8th Birthday Bash!
We’re so excited to celebrate 8 years of Tynkertopia! Come join us for hands-on STEAM activities, outdoor games, cake, snacks, and drinks!
We’ll be partying from 2 to 4PM on Saturday, September 19th at Tynkertopia!
3330 Elder Dr, Flagstaff AZ 86004

See you there!

Coconino Center for the Arts — Don’t Miss the Opportunity to Savor the Night Sky (Sept. 27): Reservations Close (Sept. 15)

Set within the galleries and theater at Coconino Center for the Arts, NightVisions: Savor the Night Sky is a constellation of a chef-curated dinner, live music & dancing, musical theater, and stargazing.

Featuring:
Amber Hour social with cash bar celestial cocktails & mocktails
Harvest Moon Dinner served within the NightVisions: AMBER gallery exhibition. Catered by SOSTA, inspired by the texture and flavors of an autumn evening around the open fire.
Moonlit Melodies by Stargazer Collaborative Theater
Stargazing guided telescope experience by Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition
…and more!

The NAU Review — Getting students ready to serve + can objects in space remember?

Ready for duty

A hands-on program is preparing the next generation of law enforcement officers and park protection rangers. By combining academic instruction, physical training and real-world experience, NAU’s Law Enforcement Training Academy is giving students what they need to serve their communities and preserve public lands right after graduation.

Choose Your Next Creative Adventure at Sedona Arts Center

Whether you’re exploring a new passion or building on years of experience, Sedona Arts Center offers inspiring classes and workshops for every skill level. Learn from working artists in a welcoming, hands-on environment while exploring painting, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, photography, mixed media, and more.

Join us in the heart of Sedona and discover where creativity can take you.

Grand Canyon National Park announces recovery and repair plan following flash flood

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the significant August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search operations remain active, while crews continue infrastructure assessments, stabilization work and efforts to restore a reliable water supply to the South Rim. 

The park now has a path forward to restore water service and, based on current progress, expects that work to take weeks, not months. 

Crews are moving forward with construction of a temporary water intake at Bright Angel Creek to replace the intake destroyed by the flood. Engineers are in the canyon designing the temporary intake, the existing Transcanyon Waterline contract has been modified to support the work, and construction activities are beginning this week. 

‘American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez’ to be shown through Sept. 10 during Sedona International Film Festival

SEDONA — The Northern Arizona premiere of “American Pachuco: The Legend of Luis Valdez” comes to Sedona for a one-week run (Sept. 3-10), starting with a screening at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3 as part of the Sedona International Film Festival.

The opening night screening will be followed by a Q&A with director David Alvarado and producer Everett Katigbak. The Sundance audience favorite tells the story of Luis Valdez, the man who built El Teatro Campesino out of the fields of California and turned the figure of the pachuco and the history of the Zoot Suit Riots into influential American stage art.

Narrated by Edward James Olmos in character as El Pachuco, featuring Dolores Huerta. It began on a flatbed truck at the Delano picket lines, with farmworkers performing their own strike, before it ever reached a stage. A Mexican American story on the big screen, brought to Sedona by the festival that keeps this red rock town in love with film.

CCC Community Education — Sign up for classes starting soon!

Conversational Spanish

Tuesdays & Thursdays, Oct. 6 thru Oct. 29

5 to 7 p.m.

This class emphasizes real-world communication through interactive activities, guided conversations, and culturally relevant topics. Beginner to intermediate levels are welcome!

Spanish – Learn more and register!

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 31 – Sept. 4, 2026

Bright Angel Flash Flood Response and South Rim Water Conservation

Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery efforts following the August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search, accountability, infrastructure assessment, and recovery work are ongoing under a Type II Incident Management Team.

Flash Flood Response and Search Efforts

At this time, 82 people have been rescued, two people have been recovered deceased, and one person remains missing. Search efforts for the missing hiker continue with park staff and partner agencies.

The flood caused extensive damage to trails, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure in the inner canyon. Early assessments indicate that approximately 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline and five to seven miles of the North Kaibab Trail have been severely damaged. Four bridges in the Box were severely damaged or washed away. Assessments are continuing, and these estimates may change as crews learn more about the extent of the damage.

Coconino Center for the Arts — First Friday is Here! September ArtWalk Highlights

Flagstaff’s First Friday ArtWalk is a monthly celebration of creativity that brings downtown to life. Local galleries stay open late with special artist receptions and entertainment, so check out the gallery map to visit them all!

Join us for First Friday tomorrow, September 4, starting at 5pm! The 2026 ArtWalk season is generously underwritten by Dapper Dre, supporting Car-Free First Fridays with traffic closures on Aspen St. for art and performance activations.

Flagstaff Festival of Science: So Many Ways to Participate!

Don’t miss Snook’s Science in the Park— one of the Festival’s signature events taking place Saturday, September 26th from 10 AM – 2 PM

Wheeler Park, in downtown Flagstaff!

What can you look forward to?

🤖 Play catch with a robot

🚀 Launch rockets

🌋 Make your own volcano

MORE…