When we listen to youth, powerful things happen.
That’s why one of the core commitments of your United Way of Northern Arizona is bringing our community together around programs and projects that provide local youth with the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
I’m excited to share two items that will make a difference to teens this winter. The first is the grand opening of The Bijou Teen Center in Holbrook, a project for youth by youth that has been several years in the making.
A day in the life
After a long pause, HRM’s Job Shadow Program is back, immersing students in the nonstop rhythm of hotel and restaurant operations. During the winter break, students stepped into industrial kitchens, executive offices and behind front desks to witness how hospitality comes to life.
Change starts with you
You don’t need special skills to make a difference; all you need is the willingness to help. The volunteers at the Flagstaff Family Food Center have been helping change people’s lives for 34 years, distributing more than 7.4 million pounds of food to the northern Arizona community last year alone. In this month’s volunteer video highlight, see how you can be part of the change.
Winter Emergency Notification Reminder
As of this writing, Desert View Drive and Hermit Road have CLOSED due to hazardous road conditions. Road closure information is always available by calling the park’s Road Line at 928-638-7496 (please, do not call Dispatch). As winter weather returns, residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications.
Grand Canyon NPS Everbridge alerts are a great way to receive real-time updates about power outages, road closures, weather-related events, and other emergency situations.
You can decide how you would like to receive notifications, whether this is through text, email, or by phone call. Sign up now by following this link.
The road stretches wide.
The laughter is warming up.
And the full company of Route 66 to the Grand Canyon has officially taken shape.
Commissioned to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, this world premiere production is a fast paced, family friendly comedy that brings the Mother Road to life through zany humor, audience interaction, and heartfelt storytelling. It is infused with the legendary spirit of Northern Arizona.
Saturday, Jan 31, 7:30 pm
Jake Allen has toured globally, is endorsed by Takamine Guitars, and has shared stages with guitar legends such as Andy McKee and Mike Dawes. As a solo artist, Allen utilizes impeccably timed live looping to create a captivating one-man show, with his hypnotic command of the guitar bringing every inch of the instrument to life.
Ryan David Green has been called “a full blown shredder” by Acoustic Guitar Magazine. A graduate of Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music, his instrumental “Time Is Not What You Think It Is” was awarded 1st place in the 2024 American Songwriter Song Contest and his original compositions have received numerous film and TV placements, including shows on E!, Lifetime, and ABC Family/Freeform.
Next Steps in Stained Glass Techniques: Copper Foil Overlay
with Sonja London-Hall
January 24–25, 2026
Meet Earth’s biggest sodium seekers
While it’s easy for us humans to get plenty of sodium in our diets, some of the world’s largest land animals have access to a pinch too little. A new study from NAU researchers showed that elephants, rhinos, giraffes and other large plant-eaters can only get enough salt in a few specific areas of the world, limiting their population growth.
We are excited to announce the Grand Opening of the Bijou Teen Center in Holbrook on January 9th. More than two years in the making, this center is a shining example of what our community can achieve through collaboration.
The seeds for the teen center were planted back in 2023, when a youth-led mental health survey of northeast Arizona teens revealed a strong desire for a safe, inclusive space they could call their own. Multiple partners then worked together to transform that dream into a reality.
AmigosNAZ does not accept any illustrations, photos or other images and written material that are in violation of copyright law. Individuals and organizations may be required to provide proof of such copyright authorization. Otherwise, please provide only website links to your upcoming events.
As we approach the end of the year, we wanted to share a snapshot of what’s been happening at United Way of Northern Arizona — and invite you to be part of what comes next.
In 2025, our community came together in powerful ways to support children, families, and individuals across Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties. Through collaboration with nonprofit partners, educators, service providers, and caring neighbors, we made meaningful progress on some of the challenges facing northern Arizona.
Season’s Greetings!
As we wrap up 2025, we reflect with deep gratitude on the 36-year journey of the Flagstaff Festival of Science and the many lives changed because of supporters like you.
Each year, the Festival shines a spotlight on the incredible research, innovation, and discovery happening right here in our community. Through more than 100 free events—lectures, field trips, hands-on activities, and school programs—we connect people of all ages to the excitement of science.
Dear Friends,
There’s still time for a year-end donation to ensure arts engagement for youth at Coconino Center for the Arts.
Creative Flagstaff has been awarded a $15k grant from the Robert Lehman Foundation toward our $30k initiative to expand educational programs and build permanent infrastructure for youth access to the visual arts at CCA, which includes:
Check out our 2026 Catalog of Workshops and Classes now online…
Discover hands-on workshops in painting, ceramics, photography, jewelry, and more. Whether you’re just beginning or expanding your skills, Sedona Arts Center offers a welcoming place to grow creatively.
All of us at United Way of Northern Arizona wish you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful holiday season. May this time be filled with meaningful moments, safe travels, and time spent with the people who matter most.
We are deeply grateful for your continued support and partnership. Together, we will keep strengthening our communities and creating opportunities for youth, families, and neighbors across Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties in 2026 and beyond.
Happy Holidays and best wishes for the New Year!
Liz Archuleta and the UWNA Team
Stonehenge is a world-famous prehistoric monument in Wiltshire, England, built around 5,000 years ago, which features strategically arranged standing massive stones in a circular pattern. On the winter solstice, December 21, the sun sets to the southwest, aligning without a glitch with the central axis of the monument, indicating the arrival of the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.
This special section highlights the outstanding achievements of Arizona teachers and schools in 2025. These accomplishments reflect not only individual talent but also the collaborative spirit that drives educational success across schools and classrooms serving Native American students. (Note: This is not an exhaustive list and is presented in no particular order. Some achievements may be missing due to reporting timelines or limited availability of information.)
Lodging Reopens as Transcanyon Waterline Work Continues
As 2025 comes to a close, overnight lodging on the South Rim has resumed and some water restrictions have eased. This progress comes after park water utility crews successfully completed complex repairs to the existing pipeline and resumed pumping water without identifying additional breaks.
Hotels operated by Xanterra—including El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge, and Maswik Lodge—as well as Delaware North’s Yavapai Lodge and Trailer Village, are now welcoming overnight guests, with reservations open. While water storage is improving, the park will continue operating under enhanced water conservation measures until storage tanks reach adequate capacity. Dry camping remains in effect, campground spigots are still turned off, and fire restrictions continue across the South Rim and inner canyon.
This holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our community. Your partnership, collaborative spirit, and generosity are what make northern Arizona so special and why we make this region our home.
I’d also like to invite you to consider a gift to United Way of Northern Arizona that will not only help support our youth and families but also give you a break on your taxes.
There are many ways to give and each has its benefits.
View online Did you know the Flagstaff Festival of Science is the longest-running, entirely free science festival in the world? Fondly known as the Best 10 Days of the Year, it’s made possible by donors who believe science should be…
As the year comes to a close, all of us at Sedona Arts Center want to say thank you. Your support—whether through attending exhibitions, taking classes, supporting our artists, or simply believing in the importance of creative expression—makes this place…
Workplace fundraising is truly the beating heart of our Annual Campaigns, and they simply wouldn’t be possible without the incredible dedication of Workplace Campaign Coordinators.
These champions inspire their colleagues, organize creative events, and help share the message of what it means to Live United.
From the government and education sector to businesses of all sizes, their leadership ensures that our community continues to come together to support youth opportunity, healthy communities, and meeting the basic needs of our neighbors in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.
For the past four years, the city of Flagstaff has been leading transformative work in an attempt to address two City Council-declared emergencies: the critical need for approximately 8,000 more housing units by 2031, while also striving to achieve carbon neutrality by the end of this decade.
Much of the work to address these issues is coming out of the city’s Planning and Development Services Division, led by Director Michelle McNulty in partnership with the Housing and Sustainability Divisions.
Good news—Phantom Ranch (reopened Dec. 11)! Crews repaired the damaged section of the Transcanyon Waterline and began pumping water again on December 8. South Rim water tanks are slowly refilling, and if that progress continues, we expect to reopen South Rim lodges in the near future.
All existing water and fire restrictions remain in effect. This includes:
• No overnight lodging inside the park
• Dry camping only (no spigot access at Mather Campground)
• No outdoor wood or charcoal fires
• Continued conservation measures for residents and employees
Give the Gift of CCA This Holiday Season
This year, share the joy of creativity, connection, and community. Whether you’re celebrating a loved one or treating yourself, gifts from Coconino Center for the Arts last far beyond the season. Because the gift of celebrating the arts gives all year long.
F3 believes that there are too many concerns and questions at this time for the City Council, in good faith, to approve an amended contract with Flock. There is ample evidence around the country of misuse of the data and extremely lax security measures to protect people’s privacy. We will be urging the City Council, as we did prior to the Flock discussion in October, to stand against this type of surveillance, cancel the contract with Flock and remove all cameras leased by the city. Please read our summary of the issue below and consider writing or speaking to the council in opposition.
More than 2,600 students graduate in two ceremonies at the Skydome on Friday. Read on for everything you need to know, including parking and traffic patterns and how to get up-to-the-minute updates.
We’re excited to bring you the latest highlights, updates, and opportunities from across our vibrant STEM community. Each month, you’ll receive a newsletter that celebrates local innovation, showcases upcoming events, and connects Flagstaff to the broader national STEM landscape.
From hands-on activities and inspiring student projects to professional development and community partnerships, our goal is to keep you informed and engaged in the many ways STEM continues to shape our schools, city, and future.
Thank you for being part of our mission to make Flagstaff a hub for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Together, we’re building curiosity, creativity, and opportunity for learners of all ages.
Many of you have already given to MNA’s year-end matching campaign – thank you! Your support is critical to sustaining MNA’s mission, and for that we are very grateful.
If you haven’t yet made a year-end gift to MNA, there’s never been a better time. Your donation before December 31 will be doubled through a matching fund created by a group of generous anonymous donors.
A gift to MNA is an investment in learning and discovery. Your generosity supports our many programs and exhibitions for visitors of all ages, connecting them to the art, science, and culture of the Colorado Plateau region.
Making medicine better for all
As an undergraduate at NAU, Ashley Martinez took a chance and reached out to a faculty member who looked like her. A few years later, she’s thriving as a graduate researcher whose work could contribute to more effective and sustainable drugs, better vaccines and more. Martinez’s work continues thanks to the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship Program, one of the most prestigious awards in the nation.
South Rim Water Update – December 2, 2025
Grand Canyon National Park continues to address the significant breaks along the Transcanyon Waterline (TCWL). As announced, additional water restrictions and a temporary suspension of overnight guest lodging on the South Rim will begin Saturday, December 6.
This short-term measure will help conserve limited water supplies while repairs continue. The park remains open for day use, and overnight lodging in Tusayan and other gateway communities is unaffected.
Thank you for your support on Giving Tuesday!
If you missed us on Tuesday, you can still support our work through the end of the year by becoming a member/renewing your membership, purchasing gifting memberships for friends and family, or giving an end-of-year donation.
We are actively growing our membership with a goal of 500 members. Our collective voices carry more weight with decision-makers, leading to greater influence as we advocate for a livable Flagstaff.
Join Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra and NAU’s Community Dance Academy this weekend, December 5 and 6, for The Nutcracker Ballet—a beloved holiday tradition filled with color, wonder, and joy.
With three performances to choose from, there’s a perfect time for every family and every holiday schedule. Let Tchaikovsky’s shimmering score and Clara’s enchanted journey bring delight your weekend.
We’d love to celebrate the season with you. Reserve your seats today.
Yes, I’ll be there!
We’re excited to launch The Connected Communities Monthly Challenge! This special campaign invites our supporters to build $400 per month in steady, sustaining gifts. And here’s the exciting part: when we reach this goal, an anonymous donor will contribute an additional $5,000 to amplify your impact.
This Giving Tuesday, Creative Flagstaff is rallying our community to support a major initiative for Youth Arts Engagement & Accessibility at Coconino Center for the Arts. Thanks to a generous commitment from the Robert Lehman Foundation, we’re already halfway to our $30,000 goal—and with your help, we can bring this transformative space to life.
This week, we’re getting out votes for a massive special election in Tennessee and calling on you to put the pressure on three of Trump’s biggest corporate collaborators. Before we jump into your to-dos, here’s Ezra to explain why We Ain’t Buying It this weekend (Nov. 27 through Dec. 1)!
On behalf of the leadership of the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona, I want to express our sincere appreciation for you and for the communities we proudly serve.
Local businesses, government partners, and dedicated individuals make ECoNA’s work possible, and each of you plays a vital role in sustaining a thriving northern Arizona.
BECOME A MEMBER Exhibitions Concerts & Events Workshops Just a Reminder We’re taking some time to make things shine! The gallery will be CLOSED through Dec 2 for facility improvements, including new wall-to-wall carpeting and contemporary seating in the theater.…
We have exciting news to share! Thanks to an anonymous group of donors, your donation to MNA between now and December 31 will be doubled – doubling your impact as we prepare for big things in 2026.
With your help, MNA is poised to share our mission with more people than ever, expanding our work to create new exhibitions and educational programs, plus increasing access so that more people can visit the museum. The impact of your gift today will be doubled as you support:
Donate
New exhibitions in the coming year, including an expansion of MNA’s katsina doll display, plus three new exhibitions in our rotating galleries.
Programs to encourage more visitors to MNA, such as discounted admission of $10 on Sundays for Northern Arizona residents; subsidies for school field trips; and free admission for local college students.
Longstanding MNA traditions such as the Heritage Festival of Art & Culture, plus new initiatives including Indigenous demonstrations, interactive activities, and tours and talks related to rotating exhibitions.
Paws in training
Karen Sealander, a professor in the Department of Educational Specialties, brings her dog to work every day, though not strictly for puppy snuggles. For more than 20 years, she has helped raise service dogs in training as a volunteer puppy raiser for the national nonprofit Canine Companions. From teaching them how to sit in a classroom full of people to training them to stay when an NAU food bot blocks their path, her work has infused NAU with a happy helping of puppy love.
We’re excited to bring you the latest highlights, updates, and opportunities from across our vibrant STEM community. Each month, you’ll receive a newsletter that celebrates local innovation, showcases upcoming events, and connects Flagstaff to the broader national STEM landscape.
From hands-on activities and inspiring student projects to professional development and community partnerships, our goal is to keep you informed and engaged in the many ways STEM continues to shape our schools, city, and future.
Thank you for being part of our mission to make Flagstaff a hub for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Together, we’re building curiosity, creativity, and opportunity for learners of all ages.
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
✨ Create. Learn. Connect.
From painting and ceramics to photography and mixed media, Sedona Arts Center offers workshops for every skill level — both in-person and online. Join us and be part of Sedona’s creative heartbeat.
The updated Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 is now available! Read the plan at www.flagstaff.az.gov/RegionalPlan2045.
Hard copies of the Regional Plan will be available shortly. Reference copies will be available for review at the City Hall Community Development counter, the Downtown Library Information Desk, and the East Flagstaff Library Information Desk. To request a take-home hard copy of the plan, please email Elsa Erling at elsa.erling@flagstaffaz.gov.
The Regional Plan was adopted by the Flagstaff City Council on Thursday, October 9th. Council directed staff to revise the draft based on Conditions of Approval and an Errata document. The plan has now been updated to incorporate these revisions. Find more information about the public hearings and adoption at the project website linked above.
WASHINGTON – Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), a Marine combat veteran and member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, released the following statement on Veterans Day:
“Generations of Arizonans have stepped up to defend our democracy, our freedoms, and our way of life. Veterans Day is a chance to reflect on that service and honor our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and all those who have served, especially those who never made it home.
“As we remember their service, we must recommit ourselves to serving our veterans and servicemembers with the same respect and honor as they have served us. That means protecting the benefits and care our veterans have rightfully earned, ensuring access to high-quality health care, and strengthening the Department of Veterans Affairs, not cutting it.
“As a Marine and combat veteran, I had the honor of serving alongside some of the most dedicated men I’ve ever known. We owe it to them, and to everyone who has ever worn the uniform, to make sure no veteran ever falls through the cracks. I’ll never stop working to fulfill that promise to our veterans and their families.”
View this email in your browser October Wrap Up: Halloween & More! 👻 The Haunted Ice House 👻 Halloween Night – This Friday! Get ready for a spooky night at the Haunted Ice House! 📍 Historic Ice House 201 E…
FLAGSTAFF — On Oct. 18, Flagstaff AZ area residents will come together with millions of Americans across the country in a nationwide day of peaceful protest at the second No Kings Day of Action. There are currently more than 2500 events nationwide. We expect 4,000 people at the Flagstaff protest.
WHEN: October 18, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
WHERE: Flagstaff City Hall, 121 W. Aspen, Flagstaff AZ
PROGRAM:
2:00 PM: Lady Liberty (giant puppet) promenade, drum circle, flag waving
2:15 PM: The Resistance Choir
2:45 PM: (Giant) Flag Unfurling; singing of the National Anthem and America the Beautiful
3:15 PM: Local Stories – How Flagstaff has been affected by the Trump regime
3:35 PM: Music Program – music by Stephen Babcock and Rod Robinson
4:00 PM Event Ends
Earlier this month, R. Glenn Williamson, founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council (CABC), spoke to the ECoNA Advisory Council about the unique relationship between Arizona and Canada and the pressures it is currently facing.
For northern Arizona, the relationship is significant. Canadian companies employ more than 300 people in Coconino, Navajo, and Yavapai counties, with another 2,600 jobs impacted by exports to Canada.
Statewide, Canada remains Arizona’s largest foreign direct investor. Additionally, an estimated 1 million Canadians visit the state each year, while about 100,000 Canadian “snowbirds” live in Arizona for part of the year. Combined, they contribute $2.4 billion to the local economy.
That impact is impressive – but not without pressure
When voters in Flagstaff resoundingly rejected Proposition 480, they did more than simply block a development plan. They issued a clear, community-wide statement: we want our hospital to stay where it is. The Northern Arizona Healthcare(NAH) proposal to abandon the long-established Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC) campus and build an entirely new facility on the outskirts of town was not what this community wanted. And it still isn’t.
“The life of one of our community members tragically ended last Saturday and my heart goes out to everyone this individual personally touched. Several members of city and police leadership and I met with family and friends to express our heartfelt sorrow and share our condolences. I was touched by their expressions of love for this individual. I know I speak for the entire city council as I convey our sympathies for this tragic loss.” – Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett
Building bikes for local children, a fun-filled block party and casino night and a record-making football game that included a Hail Mary pass in the final seconds of the first half—Lumberjacks know how to do Family Weekend right! NAU Social was out over the weekend to capture all the fun.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
FLAGSTAFF — With a setting that gazed toward the stars, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth successfully presented its 2025 CCC&Y Conference on Sept. 9, 2025 at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff.
Guest speaker Iyo Affo launched the conference with a morning presentation with her discussion on “Cohere. Connect. Conduct,” combining storytelling, science, spoken word and systems change to promote transformation within organizations and communities.
Affo, a Culturalist and Trauma Specialist, draws on personal experiences, neuroscience and the power of collective healing to talk about how self-healing communities and systems change can be the foundation for lasting transformation.
Attendees had powerful responses to the speakers and the event.
“I loved Iya’s ability to tell stories, share data, and engage with the audience. I appreciate her sharing things about her personal journey and how she connected with the audience. She was inspiring!” said one attendee.
READ MORE
You are cordially invited to celebrate the opening of Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra’s 76th Season with our first concert, Fanfares and Fireworks, on Friday, September 26 at 7:30 PM in Ardrey Memorial Auditorium. FSO launches the season with a program brimming with excitement, featuring music of breathtaking power and dazzling virtuosity.
Purchase tickets here or by clicking the button below.
At Theatrikos Theatre Company, we believe theatre is more than performance; it’s a catalyst for creativity, confidence, and community. And now, we’re one step away from building something extraordinary for Flagstaff.
This year, we launched a $30,000 capital campaign to transform a commercial building into a state-of-the-art rehearsal and education studio; a vibrant, dedicated space for year-round theatre education. We’ve raised $22,000 so far, and now we have thrilling news:
An anonymous donor has stepped forward to MATCH every dollar donated; up to our final $8,000!
NAU is celebrating Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month through Oct. 15 with games, discussions, a dance party and more, and all Lumberjacks are welcome! Browse a full calendar of events created by the Office of Inclusion.
Latest news updates for September 2025
Gallego, Cantwell & Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Extend Public Comment Period for Roadless Rule Repeal …
Gallego Introduces Bill to Protect Striking Workers …
Gallego Introduces Bill to Ensure Auto-Gratuity is Covered by ‘No Tax on Tips’ …
Gallego Statement on Charlie Kirk’s Passing …
Gallego Introduces Bill to Ensure Auto-Gratuity is Covered by ‘No Tax on Tips’ …
Gallego: “Ashli Babbitt was a traitor …
Gallego, Colleagues Call Out Trump Administration’s Wrongful Targeting of Dreamers in Illegal Immigration Scheme …
Gallego Joins Blumenthal and Colleagues to Demand Trump VA Rescind Dangerous New Proposed Rule to Ban Life-Saving Abortions for Veterans …
Gallego, Kelly, Stanton, Ansari Urge Trump to Prevent Removal of Arizona Mother and Business Owner …
Gallego Joins Blumenthal and Colleagues to Demand Trump VA Rescind Dangerous New Proposed Rule to Ban Life-Saving Abortions for Veterans …
ICYMI: Gallego Questions Trump Nominees on Energy Costs, Reliability …
MORE …
Latest news updates for September 2025
Attorney General Mayes Announces Town Halls on Health Insurance Denials
Attorney General Mayes Files Brief in Support of Federal Employees’ Right to Collective Bargaining and Free Speech
Attorney General Mayes Wins Lawsuit Against Trump Administration, Stops $184 Million Cut to AmeriCorps Service Programs
MORE…
