Category: Commentary

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Making the Case for Northern Arizona

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You already know what makes northern Arizona special. Our region has a natural beauty that has drawn visitors from all over the world for generations. But we also share an unwavering ambition to expand our foothold into some of the most vital and vibrant sectors of the economy, such as bioscience, healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and transportation and logistics, as well as traditional tourism sectors.

Now we have a tool that captures all of it in one place. ECoNA’s new recruitment brochure showcases the full range of what the region has to offer. It’s a resource designed to help businesses see, at a glance, why northern Arizona is worth a serious look.

You can see it here.

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Get the latest news updates from U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) including ‘Kelly, Raskin, Whitehouse Introduce Bill to Protect U.S. Elections, Crack Down on Corrupt Influence of Foreign Money’

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Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office of U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly

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Get the latest news updates from Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes including ‘Attorney General Mayes Files Lawsuit Challenging Unlawful Conditions on Federal Counterterrorism Funding’

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Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

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Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coalition joins other partners at Flagstaff back to school event. Also see our listing for other back to school, Summer reading, food security and other programs

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COCONINO COUNTY — The Commons area of Sinagua Middle School came alive with more than 200 children and their parents going from table to table to gather information at the Flagstaff Unified School District’s Native American Education Support Program’s annual School Supply Distribution & Expo Fair held on July 14 in Flagstaff. …

The following is a listing compiled by the Coalition of some of the back-to-school activities that have been announced in Coconino County.

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The NAU Review — Dispatches from Tonto National Forest, an Etruscan scholar

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Going underground to measure fire risk

This summer, NAU associate professor Salli Dymond is working with the Salt River Project and the startup company Growvera to install moisture sensors on plants and dead fuel on the forest floor and underground in parts of Tonto National Forest. Over the course of a year, she and her colleagues will monitor the sensors and analyze the data they generate. Dymond said if the sensors provide accurate enough moisture data, they could be a gamechanger in how Arizona officials communicate about and prepare for wildfire season.

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City of Flagstaff Beautification – Arts & Sciences — News & Opportunities

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Call to Artists: Temporary 3D Artworks

The City of Flagstaff seeks proposals for large-scale, three-dimensional (3D) artworks for the 2027/2028 Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition. The exhibition features five sculptures, existing or newly created, that reflect diverse cultural expressions including Indigenous, Black, and Latinx art. Selected artworks can advance essential perspectives and narratives and will invite interaction, conversation, and appreciation.

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Coconino Center for the Arts —Celebrate Flagstaff Dark Skies with NightVisions: AMBER through Sept. 26, more events

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BECOME A MEMBER Exhibitions Concerts & Events NightVisions: AMBER Exhibition Dates: June 27 – September 26, 2026 NightVisions: AMBER is an international juried art exhibition that seeks to explore and celebrate our deep connections with the night. In its 9th iteration for 2026,…

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Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra — Season 77 Is Here—Subscriptions Open July 25

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Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to invite you to our 77th concert season, The Stories We Carry. Each of us is shaped by stories—those we inherit, those we imagine, and those we write each day. This season, we invite you to experience musical stories that reflect our shared humanity, celebrating the journeys, memories, dreams, and experiences that shape who we are. Explore the new season below.

New season subscriptions are available beginning July 25. Enjoy exclusive savings, priority access, and the flexibility to create the concert season that’s right for you.

Prefer to purchase as you go? Single tickets for all concerts go on sale August 10.

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 6-10, 2026

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Cliff Spring Fire Update

The Cliff Spring Fire on the North Rim remains at 171 acres with no new growth, no visible smoke, and currently at 40% containment. Fire activity remains minimal, and firefighters continue full suppression efforts while tracking small pockets of interior heat identified during a recent infrared flight.

There are currently no closures associated with the fire. The Cape Royal and Walhalla Plateau backcountry areas have reopened to permit holders.

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Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Discover Parks and Recreation Summer Adventures with Our July 2026 Newsletter

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• Stage 2 Fire Restrictions in Effect: Parks & Recreation has specific guidelines outlining what is allowed and prohibited during this time. Click here to review the details before your next visit.
• Spots still open for Summer Camp weeks! Fun at the Fort has been enjoying fun themes each week, and we have room for new recruits for weeks 6 and 7. Register to join the adventures.
• Great Programs and Clinics for the summer! Culinary classes, archery, disc golf clinics, and more are coming your way. Visit our calendar to find new adventures.

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The NAU Review — Saving your cup of joe + do you know what Pluto is made of?

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Rescuing the world’s coffee

The coffee berry borer is destroying about 30% of the world’s coffee crops annually, costing farmers more than $500 million a year and driving down the supply of everyone’s favorite caffeinated beverage. NAU Ph.D. candidate Lynn Bonomo is on a mission to find a safe, sustainable way to protect coffee farmers’ crops—and your morning jolt. 

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United Way of Northern Arizona — These Teens Already Stepped Up. YES! Is Helping Them Lead

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Expanding youth opportunity – including helping teens discover their leadership potential – is one of the core missions of United Way of Northern Arizona. It’s why UWNA launched Youth Experiencing Success (YES!) and held its first Leadership Summit with more than 100 students earlier this year.

It’s one thing to help a teen embrace the idea that they could be a leader; it’s something else entirely to support them once they’ve decided to step up and take on new responsibilities.

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Board of Supervisors approves budget for fiscal year 2027

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“Knowing that there is uncertainty in the economy and some federal funding is at risk, the FY26 budget outlook remains cautious,” Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen said. “Each year we strive to deliver the best services to Coconino County residents while working within our financial means. With this fiscal year 2027 budget, I believe we have reached that balance.”

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The NAU Review — The future of healthcare: NAU’s Barrow Institute interns + 2 new health certificates

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Making a difference on the job

Four NAU undergrads were selected for prestigious 10-week internships at the Barrow Neurological Institute, where they’ll work alongside neurological disorder, speech pathology and occupational therapy professionals in real-world medical settings. Learn more about how Mandi Bluth, Noah Verdugo, Stefan Muñoz and Wyatt Peterson landed their coveted spots at Barrow and what they’re up to at the institute this summer.

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Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Support needed to prohibit source of income discrimination in housing

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F3 encourages you to submit written or verbal comments to City Council by 3:00 pm this Tuesday, June 23 in support of the adoption of a proposal (Agenda Item #7) to make it illegal for landlords to reject prospective tenants based on how they legally pay their rent.

Email written comments to: publiccomment@flagstaffaz.gov. Verbal comments may be made in person or online at the City Hall Council Chambers during discussion of Agenda Item #7. Comments are limited to a maximum length of 3 minutes.  

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Support STEM City (and try some good beers) – Flagstaff Beer Festival (June 20) – 75% Discounted Tickets

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The annual Flagstaff Beer Festival is coming this Saturday and once again a portion of all proceeds go to support STEM City and our programs.

As a final push to increase attendance and support, Rugged Nature Productions are selling remaining tickets to Flagstaff STEM City supporters at a 75% discount.  Please go to https://tinyurl.com/FBF2026-FriendsFamily or use the code FriendsFamily when you purchase.

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 8-12, 2026

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As part of Grand Canyon National Park’s Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, wildlife staff are asking employees and residents to report any elk observed within designated wildlife exclusion zones.

The five designated exclusion zones are:
El Tovar Complex
Grand Canyon Visitor Center
Maswik Lodge
Mather Campground Services Area
Grand Canyon School

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Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Introducing Our Executive Committee

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For an organization like ECoNA, having a strong Executive Committee with a wide breadth of experience and a passion for our region’s economic future is absolutely critical.

Which is why I’m so honored to announce our recently elected Executive Committee. Its members come from both the public and private sectors, and together they have decades of experience in health care, education, tourism, and community development.

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The NAU Review — The curious case of a tiny cactus + explore NAU’s Story Lab

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Can you find the paradine plains cactus in the above photo? Don’t feel bad if not—it’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, but it plays an important role in the Four Corners region’s ecosystem. In the wake of the White Sage Fire, NAU ecologist Clare Aslan is measuring the succulent’s resilience over a three-year period. Her findings could help ecologists and policymakers everywhere understand when to do boots-on-the-ground restoration work and when to let nature recover on its own.

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Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Bidding is Now Open on F3’s Online Auction Don’t Miss the Many Wonderful Items!

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FLAGSTAFF — Our online auction is now open for bidding! This is an important fundraiser for F3 and we would greatly appreciate your participation.

Register and bid on auction items today through June 23rd here:

https://FriendsOfFlagstaffsFuture.auctria.events

One can view the auction items without registering, but to place a bid, register is required. It’s easy!

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June at the Museum of Northern Arizona

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June at the Museum of Northern Arizona ushers in the start of an engaging season. Summer is truly special here! Our beautiful setting in the ponderosa pines comes alive with events, visitors, and community energy.

I invite you to kick off the summer at MNA’s Party on the Plateau fundraiser on Saturday, June 6. Reserve your tickets now. The accompanying online silent auction is open to all, featuring unique items and experiences to explore.

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City of Flagstaff Beautification Arts & Sciences — News and opportunities

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The Beautification, Arts & Sciences Program is seeking a collaborative and detail-oriented professional to manage public art collections, beautification assets, and community-focused public art projects throughout the City. This position oversees project development and maintenance, coordinates with internal and external partners, conducts community outreach, and supports program initiatives through project management, reporting, and stakeholder engagement. The ideal candidate will have strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills, along with experience managing projects of varying scope and complexity.

Application Deadline: June 21, 2026, 10 pm (Arizona Time)

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Businesses — Get involved in the 77th Coconino County Fair

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COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Fair is Labor Day weekend, September 4 – 7 at Fort Tuthill County Park, and the community is invited to participate in this annual event.

The Fair Book is available online and is the resource guide for placing entries into the County Fair. Whether community members are interested in showing off prized vegetables or flowers from their garden, or perhaps a new sewing project, the Fair Book has hundreds of exhibits to choose from. Last year, there were over 750 exhibitors who submitted over 2,300 entries, a showcase for the County.

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Grand Canyon National Park launches Conservation K-9 pilot project to reduce human-wildlife conflicts

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GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is welcoming a new, four-legged member to the park’s wildlife management team. “Blue,” a trained Conservation K-9, will work alongside park wildlife staff to help reduce human-wildlife conflicts in busy areas on the South Rim. 

The Conservation K-9 Pilot Project, now in its first year of a 3-year pilot, uses dogs to encourage animals who are habituated to humans, such as Grand Canyon’s elk and bighorn sheep, to avoid developed areas where interactions with visitors can be unsafe to both visitors and wildlife.  

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New website launch for the Flagstaff Festival of Science

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We’re excited to share that the Flagstaff Festival of Science has launched a newly redesigned website! Visit us at www.scifest.org to explore the new look and updated features.

The new site was created to make it easier for our community to stay connected with Festival events, programs, and opportunities throughout the year. With improved navigation, a more modern design, and easier access to information, visitors can quickly find upcoming events, learn about our programs, and discover ways to get involved.

“Our goal was to create a website that reflects the energy, accessibility, and community spirit of the Festival,” said Gina Byars, Program Manager for the Festival. “We encourage community members to explore the site and learn more about all of our programs and events. We’re excited to offer an improved experience that helps people connect with activities and opportunities year-round.”

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The NAU Review — Make a difference this summer

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A new club housed at NAU’s Institute for Human Development provides stimulating activities for local residents with memory loss, a respite for caregivers, a living laboratory for NAU students and faculty and a space where volunteers can make a difference through art and music. Read the story and watch the video to learn how you can be part of it.

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Coconino County Building Code adoption public hearing to be held June 2

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COCONINO COUNTY — Every six years the Coconino County Community Development Department in partnership with the Building Safety Advisory Board leads the process of adopting new and updated building codes.

It is important to update building codes to address emerging safety risks, improve energy efficiency, incorporate new material and technology and to maintain a high Insurance Services Office rating.

For the 2024 International Code Council cycle of building codes, Community Development worked with stakeholders within the building and development community to identify amendments that both increase structural wildfire resistance as well as provide improved energy conservation.

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Theatrikos Theatre Co. — Big drama is hitting the stage – get your tickets!

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The drinks are pouring, the tension is mounting, and our mid-run audiences have proven what we knew all along: Life Sucks. is an absolute triumph. From the moment the first argument flies, viewers are transported into a brilliant, hilarious exploration of love and longing that is as heartfelt as it is chaotic. With just two weeks remaining, now is the time to experience the magic everyone is talking about.

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Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y’s free webinars provide parents the resources they need for the upcoming Summer season

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By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — As the Summer vacation season rapidly approaches, it may be a good time to take a deep breath, take care of yourself and find some ways to ease the stress for your children.

To help, Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth wants to remind everyone that we have a variety of free webinar training programs on our website.

Want to take a moment to take care of yourself? Visit our free Mindfulness (for adults) one-hour webinar.

Your child may also benefit from our free Mindfulness for Youth 45-minute webinar

You can also support your child with our free Bullying and Cyberbullying one-hour webinar.

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Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Making the Case to International Investors

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For the past five years, Arizona has led all states in foreign direct investment, attracting more than $197 billion since 2020. Over the past few weeks, ECoNA has presented to delegations from 10 countries to make the case for bringing their businesses to northern Arizona.

Last month, we joined Northern Arizona University and the City of Flagstaff to meet with the Arizona Investment & Higher Education Exchange Delegation of top executives, business owners, investors, and higher education leaders from Taiwan. The delegation has expressed interest in Flagstaff’s potential for commercial, higher education, and industrial investment.

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Coconino National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest will enter Stage 1 fire restrictions

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COCONINO COUNTY — Areas of Coconino County within Coconino National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest have entered Stage 1 fire restrictions.

With the potential for continued warm, dry and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona, Coconino County will enter Stage 1 fire restrictions in alignment with area National Forest decisions. Locations and dates for restrictions are listed below.

County fire restriction stages are:

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Sedona Arts Center — Will You Help Us Finish the Fiscal Year Strong?

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I want to share a quick story with you.

Last year, we started the Sedona Entrepreneurial Artist Development Program (SEAD). Since then, a total of 34 artists from Sedona, across the state and beyond have learned the business skills necessary to take their art business to the next level. This incredible program has received acclaim from all who’ve participated and it has made a real difference in these artists lives.

This is what your support does.

As we approach the end of our fiscal year, we’re working to ensure that more stories like this are possible in the months ahead.

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United Way of Northern Arizona — Annual Meeting Shows Community in Action

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Every year, our Annual Meeting and Community Impact Celebration reminds me of why this work matters.

This year’s breakfast brought together so many of the business and community leaders who make northern Arizona the special place it is. We celebrated the close of a very successful annual campaign and reflected on the difference we can make when we work together.

Outgoing Board Chair Armando Ruiz said it beautifully: “I have been able to witness first-hand the power of partnership and collective impact. I am so proud of the work we are doing with youth.”

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The NAU Review — Get your kicks at the Route 66 exhibition

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Now through spring 2027, visitors walking into Cline Library will step into a slice of mid-century America: A glowing motel “No Vacancy” sign, vintage furniture, a guestbook waiting to be signed, a Polaroid camera to capture the moment. The exhibit “Echoes of the Open Road: 100 Years of Route 66 in Arizona” combines archival materials, student scholarship and community storytelling to trace the history of this iconic roadway—from its rise as a cross-country travel route to its cultural afterlife as a symbol of Americana.

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Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Majority Vote “Yes” on Regional Plan 2045 Ratification

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The City of Flagstaff has announced that ballots for the Regional Plan Special Election on May 19 have been counted and the results are in. The majority of voters chose to vote “Yes.” This means that the Regional Plan 2045 will take effect immediately as the City’s General Plan.

Yes on Question 492 received 57% of the votes

No on Question 492 received 43% of of the votes

Turnout for the citywide election was 27%.

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Sedona Arts Center — Take action to support arts funding in Arizona

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Right now, Arizona lawmakers are making critical decisions about the 2027 State Budget — including the future of funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts.

Sedona Arts Center is joining Arizona Citizens for the Arts in urging supporters across the state to speak up now in support of continued arts funding.

An investment in arts and culture is an investment in education, community health, tourism, local economies, and quality of life throughout Arizona. Arts organizations, teaching artists, students, and communities across the state benefit from this essential support.

We encourage you to take a moment today to contact your legislators and ask them to support at least $2 million in ongoing funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts in the 2027 budget.

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City of Flagstaff Beautification – Arts& Sciences — News & Opportunities

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View this email in your browser Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Opens May 19 The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture ExhibitionTuesday, May 19. This year’s exhibition features large-scale…

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City of Flagstaff, Coconino County celebrate year three of the Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition opening May 19

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FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Tuesday, May 19, at the Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park in Flagstaff. A reception begins at 10 a.m. and includes a welcome by Vice-Mayor Miranda Sweet and remarks by City and County officials and participating artists. The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s exhibition features large-scale sculptures by artists Pamela Ambrosio, Anjola Ayodele, Robert L. Barnum, Nathaniel Trygg Patterson and Joe Ray. Artworks reflect diverse cultural representation and explore themes of nature, history and inclusivity. Together, they infuse the park with an engaging visual experience that highlights storytelling and community, while inviting the public to experience the park in new ways as they explore its sculpture pathway.

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City of Flagstaff — Return Your Ballots for the Regional Plan Election!

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The Regional Plan Special Election ballot asks voters in the City of Flagstaff to vote on whether to ratify or not ratify the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045. 

Your ballot must be received by the Recorder’s Office no later than 7:00 pm on Election Day, Tuesday May 19, 2026. Postmarks do not apply when considering this deadline. There are no polling places on Election Day. 

If you haven’t mailed your ballot already, please use one of the drop off locations listed below to ensure it is counted. Click here for additional election information. 

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May at the Museum of Northern Arizona

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Dear Museum Friends,

May brings a sense of anticipation at the Museum of Northern Arizona as we prepare for a vibrant summer season of exhibitions, programs, and other opportunities to connect with the Colorado Plateau. Before the busy months ahead, we invite you to enjoy a special start to the season with a colorful new exhibition and a day dedicated to celebrating museums as places of discovery and community.

Artist Hopid Unveiled, opens May 16 in the Courtyard Gallery and highlights the groundbreaking collective formed in 1973 by Hopi artists Michael Kabotie, Delbridge Honanie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David Sr., and Milland Lomakema. Drawn from MNA’s fine art collection, including recent acquisitions, the exhibition explores how these artists created bold contemporary visuals rooted in Hopi life, tradition, and storytelling. Presented in three thematic installations, the exhibition offers fresh perspectives on modern identity and cultural continuity.

We also look forward to celebrating International Museum Day on May 16 with free admission and activities for all ages. From hands-on art and science experiences to touch tables, guided tours, and family-friendly exploration throughout the Museum, it’s a chance to experience MNA as a place of creativity, learning, and connection.

I hope you’ll join us at the Museum as we welcome the season ahead.

Mary Kershaw

Executive Director & CEO

Museum of Northern Arizona

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May News at Sedona Arts Center

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corner.

This month, we are excited to present a new exhibition, FORM and FACE: Abstract Bodies + Masked Identities, in our Special Exhibit Gallery. Featuring work by Zarco Guerrero, Mike Medow, and Kevin Titzer, this dynamic show runs through May 31. Exploring the intersections of abstraction, the human form, and identity, the exhibition uses sculptural masks, figurative assemblage, and evocative materials to examine how identity is constructed, concealed, and revealed. It’s a truly compelling experience—don’t miss it.

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United Way of Northern Arizona — Deadline for KinderCamp™ 2026 Coming Up (May 15)

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If you’ve been a part of the United Way of Northern Arizona community for a while, you are already familiar with what KinderCamp™means for scores of preschoolers.

You’ve heard how this targeted intervention program, provided free to families, helps prepare 4- and 5-year-olds with little to no preschool experience so they are ready for that first day of school.

It’s the difference between a child walking into kindergarten ready to learn – and one who feels overwhelmed.

KinderCamp returns this June in Flagstaff, Williams, Holbrook and Pinetop-Lakeside, but we’re coming up on a critical deadline.

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Sedona Arts Center — CALL TO ARTISTS — FRIDAY Deadline — 2026

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Application Deadline: May 8, 2026
(This Friday)
Notification: May 15, 2026
Program Dates: June 1–25, 2026

Sedona Arts Center invites teens and college-age students (ages 15–22) to apply for Gallery 928, a paid summer art apprenticeship that pairs emerging artists with a master artist to design and create a public mural on the Sedona Arts Center campus.

Up to 12 apprentices will be selected for this immersive program. Each participant receives a $500 stipend and three free college credits through Yavapai College, along with hands-on experience in the full public art process — from concept to completion.

Gallery 928 also helps artists build essential professional skills, including teamwork, leadership, presentation, and résumé development, preparing them for future opportunities in the arts.

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Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Addressing Misinformation: Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045

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City of Flagstaff voters,

There’s a lot of misinformation being spread in our community, on social media and by word of mouth, about ratifying the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045.

F3 would like to directly address this misinformation by providing direct answers to specific misinformation. The questions and answers below are taken directly from the City of Flagstaff’s Regional Plan 2045 website FAQs.

Does the Regional Plan 2045 require that all new homes must be electric?

No, there is no policy that directly states that all new homes should be all electric. There is an action item in Chapter 10 to “Update the City Sustainable Building Resolution and Sustainable Residential Building Incentives to further implement net-zero energy standards.” The incentives could include points or options for all electric homes.

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MAY Day Economic Boycott on May 1

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By Indivisible Northern Arizona 

FLAGSTAFF — (The Boycott) lays the foundation for future economic disruption.

LET’S SHOW OUR COLLECTIVE POWER!

What to do instead? Celebrate collective bargaining.

And if you must shop, SHOP LOCAL!

Event details:

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Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: April 27-May 1, 2026

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Water Conservation Remains Critical Following New Pipeline Break

Grand Canyon continues to operate under water conservation measures. A new break in the Transcanyon Waterline was identified the evening of April 29 and as of Thursday afternoon, the break has been located along the North Kaibab Trail north of Phantom Ranch near the 4th footbridge. This latest development is a reminder that the system remains fragile and conditions can change quickly.

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Flagstaff Festival of Science — Don’t Miss the Science Scavenger Hunt! (May 2)

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The Scavenger Hunt is THIS WEEKEND!

REGISTER SOON! Don’t miss your opportunity to save your spot for one of Flagstaff’s most memorable spring events.

Join us May 2nd for the Science Scavenger Hunt—a city-wide adventure where teams build communication skills, creatively solve problems, think flexibly, and develop leadership strengths.

Teams of up to four will solve rhyming clues, discover science artifacts all over the city, and have a blast with friends and family!

Perfect for families, friends, coworkers, and curious minds of all kinds.

Don’t miss out!

https://scifest.org/scavengerhunt/

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The NAU Review — A new threat to river ecosystems + a new way to experience art

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Warmer streams may weaken river food webs

Can you tell the difference when a stream gets warmer? The tiny living things that make that ecosystem their home can. In a new study, researchers from Ecoss found that microbes and aquatic insects are processing fallen leaves, twigs and bark more rapidly and releasing more carbon dioxide into the water and air. The findings could have implications for plants and animals in rivers across the western United States.

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The NAU Review — Giving Day, two more for NAU and celebrating professional achievements

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Your guide to NAU Giving Day 2026

Not sure where to swing your Axe of Kindness this NAU Giving Day? Let us help! We’ve shared a few inspiring stories that illustrate the power your gift can wield, whether you donate to NAU’s general fund or choose a specific area of impact. Your Axe of Kindness will change lives and transform Arizona for the better, no matter how you give.

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Communities Not Cages: National Day of Action to Stop ICE Warehouse Detention/ICE Out of Flagstaff on April 25

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FLAGSTAFF — Join us at Flagstaff City Hall as part of a nationwide day of action against the Trump administration’s expansion of ICE detention — and its assault on the due process rights of immigrants and all Americans from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 25 at the Flagstaff City Hall, 211 W Aspen Ave., Flagstaff.

Send a message to ICE that they are not welcome in Flagstaff

The Department of Homeland Security is moving to lock thousands of people in massive detention warehouses — cutting them off from their families, their lawyers, and any meaningful chance at due process. We’re taking to the streets because Flagstaff stands for something better: dignity, justice, and the rule of law.

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Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Public Meeting: Community Wildfire Protection Plan Update to be held April 23

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The Greater Flagstaff Region is hosting a public meeting on April 23 from 5:00-8:00 p, at the Flagstaff Aquaplex for the community to learn about the current process to update the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

Attendees will be able to visit with staff from local fire departments, talk with subject matter experts, and provide comments to inform the CWPP’s development, as well as learn about wildfire risk reduction recommendations for the forest and for homes.

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First Things First recently teamed with the Arizona Association for the Education of Young Children (AzAEYC) to celebrate the Week of the Young Child including event at the Flagstaff City Council

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“(April 14) the Week of the Young Child proclamation was read at the Flagstaff City Council meeting, recognizing the importance of the early years and their impact on lifelong success,” said Pearl Santillan of First Things First.

“Our PPO Shawn Soumilas, shared powerful remarks highlighting that nearly 4,000 young children in Flagstaff are in their most critical years of development and how access to affordable, reliable child care is directly tied to workforce stability, education, and the overall strength of our community.

“I had the opportunity to briefly close by grounding the moment in the people behind this work recognizing the providers, families, and partners who show up every day to support young children across our region.

“We were proud to stand alongside our Regional Partnership Council members, staff, community partners, and Rebecca Cirzan’s son, Hayden, who even joined me at the podium, a sweet reminder of who this work is ultimately for. Grateful to be part of this work and this community.”

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