Category: Cultural

Find your creative inspiration This Fall at Sedona Arts Center

Explore Something New. Create Something Wonderful
 

There’s always something new to discover at Sedona Arts Center! Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time, developing your skills at the pottery wheel, or exploring a completely new medium, our upcoming classes and workshops offer opportunities to learn, experiment, and grow.

From painting and ceramics to stained glass, photography, mixed media, and more, you’ll find welcoming instruction, hands-on experiences, and a creative community ready to inspire you.

Find your next creative experience and join us in the heart of Sedona!

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.

Coconino County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council announces 2026 awards and opens community nominations

The Coconino County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) is now accepting nominations for its 2026 CJCC Awards, recognizing individuals, organizations and partnerships making meaningful contributions to the criminal justice system and the communities it serves.

The awards will be presented at a joint Flagstaff City Council and Coconino County Board of Supervisors meeting on Monday, Nov. 16 at 3 p.m.

The NAU Review — Mapping an ancient pueblo + celebrate Disability Pride Heritage Month!

Preserving the past for the future

From site to screen, a team from the Department of Anthropology is working to preserve history at Wukoki Pueblo, an ancient Indigenous dwelling 30 miles north of Flagstaff. Their work will not only create a detailed digital record of the site but will also create a three-dimensional model that’s accessible to people anywhere in the world

Coconino Center for the Arts — First Friday is Here! October 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 today, October 2, 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.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Oct. 1, 2026

Grand Canyon Recovery and Water Conservation Efforts

The Grand Canyon community continues to come together as recovery efforts move forward following the August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the ongoing South Rim water emergency.

In the inner canyon, National Park Service staff, the Alpine Hotshots and the Bright Angel Creek Incident Management Team continue clearing heavy debris and mud, removing hazardous trees and re-establishing trails and facilities near Phantom Ranch. Crews are also using helicopters to transport water, equipment and other critical supplies into the canyon.

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

Help shape the future of Coconino County Parks

COCONINO COUNTY — What does a park or natural area in your community need? Which trails could be enhanced? Which programs should expand? Coconino County Parks & Recreation is looking for residents in Districts 2, 4 and 5 to help answer those questions as members of the Parks & Recreation Commission (PRC).

The Commission is a citizen advisory body that weighs in on how county parks, trails, recreation programs and events are developed and operated, then makes recommendations directly to the Board of Supervisors. Commissioners serve three-year terms and meet monthly.

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.

Christmas tree permits available online through Recreation.gov for the upcoming holiday season

To purchase a Christmas tree permit, visit Recreation.gov and search for Kaibab National Forest Christmas Tree Permits. It is important to carefully read the overview and need-to-know information prior to purchasing the permit. Visitors will also need to set up or log in to a Recreation.gov account to complete the transaction. Up to 5 trees may be purchased on a single permit at $15 per tree. A small processing fee will be applied to the transaction.

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.

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.

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.

Anthony Garcia resigns from Flagstaff City Council

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Anthony Garcia has notified the City of his resignation from the Flagstaff City Council, effective immediately. Mr. Garcia is stepping down to focus on his health and well-being.

The City thanks Mr. Garcia for his service to the Flagstaff community and for the time and commitment he dedicated to serving on the City Council.

Mr. Garcia shared “It has been a true honor to serve the Flagstaff community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back to a city I care deeply about and to the residents who took the time to share their hopes, concerns, and ideas for Flagstaff. At this point in my life, I need to step back and make my well-being a priority.

Discover Flagstaff — Science, Y2K, and Film in Flagstaff

Snook’s Science in the Park

Wheeler Park

The headlining event for the Flagstaff Festival of Science, Snook’s Science in the Park offers hands on science events, activities, and workshops for all ages! If you are interested in a career or knowledge in a STEM field, this is the event for you.

Discover something new and interact with over 50 vendors from a variety of Flagstaff scientific institutions! 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. FREE!

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sept. 25, 2026

Update on Potable Water Storage Tanks

The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team (IMT) recognizes that the recent removal of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village raised questions among residents, particularly those who have relied on the tanks during the current water emergency.

Immediately after the flash flood, the tanks were installed as an additional source of potable water and provided approximately 46,000 gallons of total storage capacity. Actual use was significantly lower, with approximately 6,000 gallons used daily. Because the water was not being used as quickly as anticipated, it was remaining in the tanks for longer periods of time. Water that remains in storage can lose its chlorine residual over time, which can eventually affect water quality. Testing of the water found no identified health risk, but the IMT took the underused tanks out of service as a precaution to ensure the water did not remain stored long enough to become a water-quality concern

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.

The NAU Review — Repair it so you can re-wear it at NAU’s RepairLab

Create, repair and upcycle at the MakerLab

Need a quick fix? The MakerLab at Cline Library and the Office of Sustainability are partnering to offer RepairLabs, where people can get clothing and jewelry (and more!) repaired, keeping items out of the landfill for longer. Got repair skills? Sign up to volunteer for an upcoming RepairLab.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Your membership, donations support the work of CCC&Y

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

​​​​​​​COCONINO COUNTY — We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.

The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.

When you become a member of CCC&Y, your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.

READ MORE

Fall Festivities with Culture Connection AZ!

Join us Friday, October 2nd for our Disability Culture Revealed; Art, History, and Community Voices exhibition opening! In partnership with NAU’s Disability resources, and the Hozhoni Foundation’s Residential Art Program the CCAZ team has created this exhibition to help viewers explore disability culture through art, history, and community voices. Stop by the Historic Ice House during First Friday ArtWalk to see it yourself!

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. 

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.

Community, local officials celebrate the launch of Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15, 2026)

COCONINO COUNTY — Members of the Hispanic community gathered on Sept. 15 to celebrate the approval by the Coconino County Board of Supervisors of the official proclamation recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15). …

The proclamation includes:
 … WHEREAS, the month encourages people to explore the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States, Arizona and Coconino County for generations; and

… WHEREAS, in recognition of the 2026 theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” Coconino County acknowledges the transformative role of Hispanic Americans in driving progress, innovation and social change across fields such as science, art, politics, education and community activism; and 

WHEREAS, we will continue to advocate for Hispanics/Latinos as representation matters. Latinos and Latinas continue to shape our nation as business owners, activists, artists, public servants and more. From serving in the US military to being champions in the fight for civil rights, Latinas and Latinos remain strong leaders and changemakers. …

The ceremony can be viewed on the County’s Youtube site at http://youtube.com/coconinocnty at the 26:30 mark

Coconino County, Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) honor longtime community supporter Ruth Eaton

FLAGSTAFF — On the same evening the Coconino County Board of Supervisors was recognizing Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, it seemed only fitting that the county also recognized and honored a local community leader who has worked hard to ensure that the contributions of the local Hispanic community are also remembered.

The Board of Supervisors honored Ruth Eaton, former chair and member of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) during a ceremony held at the board’s meeting room on Sept. 15.

Discover Flagstaff — Pickin in the Pines, Southwest Flow Festival, and more!

Pickin in the Pines Bluegrass Festival is three days of live music, jamming, camping, educational workshops, a band contest, community dance, kid’s activities and more!

Come down and have fun in the cool pines of Flagstaff at Ft. Tuthill County Park and Pepsi Amphitheater.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Back to School Success

Every fall, parents ask themselves the same question: what can I really do to help my child succeed in school this year? The good news is that research points to a handful of everyday habits that make a real difference.

As a nonprofit with a focus on youth opportunity, here’s what we know works and where you can turn if your family needs extra support.

Get them to school – every day. It sounds obvious, but it matters more than people realize.

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.

Crews assessing new damage following second flash flood event at Grand Canyon National Park

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park crews are assessing damage after an additional flash flood moved through Bright Angel Canyon Wednesday afternoon, damaging temporary water infrastructure being constructed as part of the park’s ongoing recovery from the Aug. 29 flood. 

There were no reported injuries. With severe weather approaching and flash flood warnings in effect, the National Park Service had reduced the number of personnel working in the canyon. Crews remaining in the area were able to reach safety before the flood moved through. The affected area remains closed to public access. 

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. 

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.

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.

Flagstaff Festival of Science — Register early

In just under two weeks, the Flagstaff Festival of Science kicks off!

And the best part? All Festival events are FREE! 

While most events are open to everyone, some do require advance registration. We don’t want you to miss out on something you’re excited about because registration filled up—or because you didn’t know you needed to sign up ahead of time!

There are 32 events that require advance registration, from a full moon hike in Picture Canyon to tagging a Monarch butterfly and more.

We’ve highlighted a small sampling of these events below, so take a look, find something that catches your curiosity, and register early!

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 7-11, 2026

South Rim Water Update — September 11, 2026 

The August 29 flash flood caused extensive damage to water infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon, including portions of the Transcanyon Waterline and the Bright Angel Creek intake. The South Rim remains under Stage 4 water restrictions and is relying on stored water while crews conduct repairs and advance temporary water-supply solutions. We know this has required significant adjustments in homes, workplaces and park operations, and we are deeply grateful to every resident, employee, business, partner and visitor who has helped conserve water during this difficult time. 

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!

Community celebrates with dance and musical performances during the unofficial Latino Entertainment Day at 2026 Coconino County Fair

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County officials celebrated another successful County Fair with the local Hispanic community turning out for a variety of Latino-themed performances on Sept. 6 at the 77th annual Coconino County Fair.

“Thousands turned out to Get Your Kicks and Fair Fix at Fort Tuthill County Park this Labor Day weekend!” County officials stated. “Thank you to our incredible community, local businesses, and everyone who came together to make the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair one to remember. We hope to see you again next year!”

Entertainment on Sunday at the Main Stage included the morning dance performances by Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff, the afternoon performance by Banda La Excepcional and the evening concert by Grupo La Kana. 

Discover Flagstaff — FALL-PAW-LOOZA Flagstaff Mall on Sept. 12, more events

FALL-PAW-LOOZA
Flagstaff Mall
Join us for an exciting time at the FALL-PAW-LOOZA to support Shadows Foundation and their new adoption network, R-FAN!

Food, Bar, Games, Giveaways, Vendors, Cornhole Tournament, K9 Demonstration, Pet Adoptions, Live Music, Kids Crafts Hosted by Flagstaff Walmart Locations, and More!

Shadows Foundation R-FAN will have puppies available for adoption from 2-5pm!

Coconino County presents 22nd Annual Sustainable Building Tour on Oct. 3

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s Sustainable Building Program invites the community to explore innovative, resilient living at the 22nd Annual Sustainable Building Tour on Saturday, October 3.

Presented as part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science, this year’s free event features a dual-track tour showcasing practical, inspiring strategies for building and living sustainably across northern Arizona. Attendees can choose between two distinct experiences, or explore both:

Museum of Northern Arizona — Don’t Miss This Special Artist Conversation at MNA on Sept. 13

Join us Sunday, September 13 at 1pm, to hear from two renowned artists sharing stories and reflections on Artist Hopid. Neil David Sr. and Ed Kabotie’s father, Michael Kabotie, were two of the founding members of Artist Hopid, a groundbreaking collective founded in 1973 by five visionary Hopi artists: Michael Kabotie, Delbridge Honanie, Terrance Talaswaima, Neil David Sr., and Milland Lomakema.

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

The 77th Annual Coconino County Fair was a great success!

Thousands turned out to Get Your Kicks and Fair Fix at Fort Tuthill County Park this Labor Day weekend! Thank you to our incredible community, local businesses, and everyone who came together to make the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair one to remember. We hope to see you again next year!

Coconino Center for the Arts — Savor the Night Sky: Featured performances, dinner menu, and more!

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.

Stargazer Collaborative Theater will be performing musical selections inspired by the night sky, featuring performers Doug Riddle, Sarah Casey, DeLano Hays, Amelia Swann, AJ Maniglia, Taylor Salazar.

This fundraiser benefits Exhibitions & Programs at Coconino Center for the Arts, with opportunities to support Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition.

Limited capacity. Reservations close September 15.⁠ 

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Youth artistic talent on display at 2026 Coconino County Fair

COCONINO COUNTY — Students from dozens of local schools countywide participated in the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair held Sept. 4-7, 2026 at the fairgrounds at Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff.

Public elementary, middle and high school; charter school and home-school students submitted a variety of entries, which filled the entire Schools exhibit building.

​​​​​​​“We loved seeing student artwork from schools across FUSD on display at the Coconino County Fair this weekend!,” FUSD stated on its Facebook page. “A big shoutout to our talented student artists and the teachers who encourage their creativity every day. We’re so proud to see our students’ amazing work out in the community!”

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.

‘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.

Labor Day closures for Coconino County

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s Administrative Center, County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Coconino County Superior Court, Flagstaff Justice Court and Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) office and clinic will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.  

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.

The NAU Review — How NAU and the Navajo Nation are searching for safe water

View this email as a webpage.
The NAU Review. The official news source for Northern Arizona University.
Sept. 3, 2026

We deliver top headlines to the Lumberjack community every Tuesday and Thursday during the academic year. For more, visit in.nau.edu/news.

A Navajo man pumps water from a tank into a barrel. Red rock mesas are in the background.
Identifying safe drinking water on tribal lands

A group of NAU researchers, led by analytical chemist Jani Ingram, sampled water in wells throughout the Navajo Nation to identify which wells contained safe drinking water and which contained dangerous levels of uranium. The work doesn’t just protect Navajo Nation residents’ health; it also provides them with data they can use to advocate for safer community resources.

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…

Celebrate MNA’s 98th Birthday this Sunday!

Join us Sunday, September 6, as we celebrate MNA’s 98th birthday with a special presentation by Kristan Hutchison, MNA’s Exhibitions & Publications Manager. Discover the remarkable story behind the museum’s founding, then enjoy cupcakes as we celebrate MNA’s past and look ahead to the museum’s centennial in 2028!