Category: Entertainment

CCA & SOSTA partner exhibition ‘One Blood at the Precipice’ opens with reception on Nov. 14. Other upcoming exhibits

BECOME A MEMBER Exhibitions Concerts & Events Workshops One Blood at the Precipice Reception CCA & SOSTA present Frederica Hall: One Blood at the Precipice Reception Date/Time: Friday, November 14, 4-6pm; artist performance at 4:45pm Location: Sosta Restaurant, 413 N.…

Public hearing set for Coconino County’s updated Comprehensive Plan on Nov. 18

Coconino County is pleased to announce that the public hearings for Envision 2045, the County’s updated Comprehensive Plan have been scheduled.

The updated Plan was developed over the past two and a half years with input from communities across the County, numerous outreach events, surveys, open houses, collaboration with local, State and Federal partners and with guidance by a citizen advisory group.  
The Comprehensive Plan is a long-range policy document that sets out a 20-year vision, based on public input that guides the county’s future physical, economic and social development. Its text, maps, goals, policies and implementation actions guide decisions about the County’s future, in particular land use decisions, and serves as a resource document reflecting information about the county at the time it was updated.

Coconino County Center for the Arts announces upcoming events Dec. 12

Friday, November 7, 7:30 pm

Each generation, perhaps once a decade, bluegrass experiences a band or an artist that redefines and recenters the genre itself. Della Mae is one such band.

The GRAMMY-nominated string band was founded in 2010 and over the next decade and a half they’ve demonstrated to the roots music world, once and for all, that a band of all women is not, nor has ever been, a mere novelty. They remain at the forefront of the explosion of women instrumentalists and all-women acts in roots music and their impact is striking and measurable – not just in North America, but around the globe.

Coconino Center for the Arts presenting SHIFTING TOPOGRAPHIES: Extracting the Landscape through Dec. 20

SHIFTING TOPOGRAPHIES: Extracting the Landscape features projects by Carol Hartman (Red Lodge, MT), Jeff Schmuki (Stateboro, GA), and Klee Benally in memoriam (Diné, Black Mesa, Navajo Nation; Flagstaff, AZ). In a rapidly changing climate, we are witness to and complicit in irreversible scarring of the land. There are eight National Parks and Monuments within a 2-hour drive of Flagstaff that face potential threats to their preservation, due to the proposed federal reopening of protected sacred lands to mining. This timely and relevant exhibition theme—extraction—takes on a markedly different approach depending on the geographical and cultural perspectives of the represented artists.

What a year! 2024 at Culture Connection AZ

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible milestones Culture Connection AZ has reached this year. Thanks to your unwavering support, we’ve been able to connect our community, celebrate local culture, and amplify voices that have long been overlooked. Our events this year have brought together hundreds of attendees, and we are excited to share with you some of the highlights and successes from the past year.

Grand Canyon National Park Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Fee Increase for Non-Commercial River Trips

GRAND CANYON, AZ. — Grand Canyon National Park is seeking the public’s input on a proposed fee increase for non-commercial river trips. The proposed change would begin March 1, 2025.

The existing $25 lottery application cost fee would remain the same and the flat rate per-person cost would increase from $90 to $310 for Lees Ferry to Diamond Creek and $0 to $55 for Diamond Creek to Pearce Ferry.

Interested parties can submit feedback online at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/GRCA_River_Trip_Cost_Increase through January 30, 2025. Written comments may also be sent to the following address by January 30, 2025:

Art Workshops & Classes at Sedona Arts Center

Mini Masterpieces: Palette Knife and Cold Wax Basics
with Casey Cheuvront
January 4, 2025: Saturday, 11am–4pm

Good things come in small packages!  Add some dimension to your painting with cold wax and learn the basics of palette knife painting in this one-day workshop. All materials provided. Leave with your own mini masterpiece!

 Gallery depth mini panel, palette knife, paint, and cold wax included in the materials fee (paid to the instructor)
 Reserve early; limited seating – All levels welcome!

Coconino National Forest — Grand Annual Pass being discontinued – New annual Sedona Pass debuts Jan. 1

SEDONA — The Coconino National Forest and partners will discontinue the sale of the Grand Annual Pass on Dec. 31, 2024, to simplify pass requirements across the forest, but existing Grand Annual Passes sold through the end of 2024 will be honored at all fee sites through 2025.

ExplorUS, in coordination with the Coconino National Forest, is excited to announce the launch of the new annual Sedona Pass. The annual pass will be sold for $50 starting in January 2025, and will provide visitor access for one vehicle and up to five people per pass to the following day-use sites on the Coconino National Forest.

The faithful gather before dawn for the annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration on Dec. 12, 2024

FLAGSTAFF — Even before dawn on a chilly but clear morning, the faithful gathered at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church for the annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Celebration on Dec. 12, 2024 in Flagstaff.

As has been traditional in recent years, more than 100 luminarias lit the way for those who attended the event, which featured spiritual music and prayers.

The Rosary was led by Las Guadalupanas, followed by the Mañanitas Serenade to Our Lady of Guadalupe and the bilingual Mass.

The luminarias surrounding the chapel were placed by members of Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, who will also present the breakfast in the church’s basement following the Mass.

Discover Flagstaff — 2024 Holiday Parade of Lights on Dec. 14 downtown Flagstaff, more upcoming events

Saturday, December 14
2024 Holiday Parade of Lights, Downtown Flagstaff.

With parade floats lighting up Historic Downtown Flagstaff, you won’t want to miss out on the fun and festivities that have become a holiday tradition in Flagstaff. Free. 6 p.m.

Learn More

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 9-13, 2024

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AZ Culture Connection — Join us for a fun and festive day at our Winter Market on Dec, 14

Discover unique, handmade goods from local artists and artisans, enjoy live music from The Pocket Limes, sip on warm coffee and cocoa, and explore a variety of crafts and more! Whether you’re shopping for the perfect gift or simply enjoying the holiday spirit, there’s something for everyone!

Don’t miss out on this festive celebration — bring your friends, family, and holiday cheer!

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — The Arts: A Cornerstone of Northern Arizona’s Economic Growth

The arts are more than a source of inspiration – they are a vital economic driver for northern Arizona.

We know from data collected by the national Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6), the latest economic impact study conducted by Americans for the Arts, that the arts account for more than $85 million in direct economic activity in Flagstaff annually, and another $13.5 million in Sedona.

The arts are one of the top 10 sectors in the region based on employment and our 5-year Strategic Plan calls for community leaders to support the expansion and enhancement of arts and cultural venues and offerings within our communities.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Make Your Year-End Gift to MNA Today!

Why support MNA today?

Because in a world that’s increasingly filled with replicas, virtual experiences, and even artificially created images and videos, museums matter more than ever.

Because nothing can replicate the experience of this place. The bubbling fountain in the Golightly Courtyard surrounded by the life zones of the Colorado Plateau.
The anticipation of walking into a new exhibition, or the quiet communion of sitting with an artwork or object in one of MNA’s intimate galleries. The exhilaration of watching a traditional Indigenous dance performance – not on your phone, but live and in person.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 12/9/24

View this email in your browser December 9th, 2024 Connect with your community Adult & All-Ages Events Book Clubs Youth Events Friends of the Library Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, please call 928-213-2331…

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Dec. 2-6, 2024

Resume Workshop Series at Albright Training Center

Albright Training Center is hosting a series of resume workshops designed to help individuals apply for and compete for jobs with the National Park Service. Led by Paul Ganas and Dalirca Matos, Human Resource Specialists for NPS, these sessions will provide valuable insights into building strong resumes and navigating the federal hiring process.

Each workshop is tailored to a specific audience, so be sure to attend the session that best fits your needs:

December at the Museum of Northern Arizona

As the year winds down and the holiday season is in full swing, I invite you to find inspiration and calm at the Museum of Northern Arizona. A great place to start is in our new Poetry Maps exhibition, offering unique perspectives on the landscapes we hold dear.

This coming weekend, we’re hosting our annual Winter Market and Open House, a beloved tradition highlighting Indigenous artistry and craftsmanship. It’s a perfect opportunity to find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting Indigenous talent. If you’re still searching for something truly unique, take advantage of our Museum Shop. It’s a delightful space where you’ll discover regional handcrafted treasures, surrounded by the quiet charm of the Museum.

Amid the holiday hustle, a visit to the Museum can bring moments of peace and reflection. Whether you’re exploring exhibits or just taking in the season’s beauty, we hope to see you here soon.

Warm wishes for a joyful December,
Mary Kershaw
Executive Director & CEO
Museum of Northern Arizona

Sedona Arts Center — Call to Artists

Development Program (SEAD)
March 8-9, 2025
APPLICATION DEADLINE: JANUARY 3, 2025
The Sedona Artist Entrepreneurial Development Program (SEAD) is a 2-day intensive opportunity that empowers visual artists to see their creative practice through an entrepreneurial lens. The SEAD curriculum explores tools to organize, plan, and sustain a creative career, with the goal of developing an individualized business plan to prepare each artist to take their creative endeavors to the next level.

Participants will learn about topics including strategic planning, creating your artist statement, resume and bio, marketing, accounting and more. Participants who successfully complete the program and create their strategic plan within a year will each be eligible to apply for a $500 grant for implementation. This program is conducted in partnership with USDA Rural Development.

Discover Flagstaff — Elf: The Musical, Theatrikos Playhouse, Thanksgiving Brunch, more events

Friday-Sunday, November 29- December 1
Elf: The Musical, Theatrikos Playhouse.

This candy cane twirling modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Fri-Sat 7:30 p.m, Sun 2 p.m.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 25-29, 2024

The 2024 Fall Astronomy Volunteers. This team put on dark skies programs 4-5 nights per week through the fall season, connecting tens of thousands of visitors to the stars. Thank you for your stellar service to your national parks and to Grand Canyon’s dark skies! Left to right: Bernie Sanden, Robyn Tan, Steve Dimse, Lian Tan, Tyler Cherry, Rader Lane, CC Cogswell, Joey Green.

City of Flagstaff Beautification, Arts & Sciences — Exciting Opportunity to Serve on a Public Art Panel!

We’re excited to share a great opportunity for community members to get involved with Flagstaff’s public art scene! The City of Flagstaff Beautification, Arts & Sciences program is looking for passionate individuals to serve as panelists for upcoming public art projects. We’d really appreciate it if you could help spread the word to your constituents, staff, volunteers, or anyone in your community who might be interested in participating.

We’re looking for people from all backgrounds—art experience isn’t required! Panelists will evaluate artists, artist proposals, or engage in discussions about projects. The time commitment varies, depending on the project, but participation is virtual making it easy to take part from anywhere.

Discover Flagstaff — Fall Events and More with Flagstaff 365 Happenings

Saturday, November 23
The Brothers Reed, Coconino Center for the Arts

With their comedic brotherly banter, impeccable harmonic expression, and widely varying influences, a Brothers Reed performance will have you reflecting on lost lives and lovers, laughing hysterically and leaving completely entertained. 7:30 p.m.

Creative Flagstaff Announces the 17th Annual Viola Awards (April 26, 2025)

FLAGSTAFF — Creative Flagstaff is pleased to announce the 17th Annual Viola Awards on April 26, 2025, at the Orpheum Theater in downtown Flagstaff. Honoring a legacy of excellence in arts, science and culture in Flagstaff, we are reveling in 17 years with Dancing Queens! Look forward to a spectacular evening of dazzling performance to celebrate artistic excellence in our community.

The Viola Awards celebrate achievements in the arts, science, and culture akin to the Oscars of Flagstaff. Each year, the community gathers to applaud the achievements of our local creative community, with over hundreds in attendance. The event was founded in 2009 to honor Viola Babbitt and her dedication as a founding member of Flagstaff’s creative community. The Viola Awards event is sponsored annually by the Babbitt Brothers Foundation and other institutions that value arts and culture.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 18-22, 2024

Key Updates to the 2024 Superintendent’s Compendium for Grand Canyon National Park

What is the Compendium?
The Superintendent’s Compendium is a vital document that outlines the specific regulations and policies governing Grand Canyon National Park. It serves as a supplement to federal regulations, allowing park management to address unique local conditions and issues. The Compendium is updated every year to ensure the park’s rules remain current and effective.

Key Updates for 2024:

Sedona Arts Center — Discover New Art Classes in Sedona

Pastels: A Crash Course
with Nori Thorne
November 22: Friday

Are you drawn to the beauty and versatility of pastel but don’t know where to start?  This crash course is for you. We will have pastel demonstrations, exercises, and plenty of at-easel encouragement in Pastels:  A Crash Course.  Learn how to block in a design, underpaint using a wet wash, experiment with a variety of pastel surfaces and materials.  With an emphasis on achieving correct values, colors, and shapes you will create an exciting floral still life and leave the workshop with skills to begin your pastel journey.

Theatrikos Theatre Co. — Stage Buddies: Hunchback of Notre Dame and Theatre Camp

Hunchback Enrollment

Coming up in December

Theatrikids Educational Theatre Program:

The Stage Buddies program, now in its tenth year, brings the classic Hunchback of Notre Dame to the Theatrikos stage for six performances in February. In this abilities-inclusive program, actors with disabilities age 15-18 are paired with experienced middle and high school actors to share a role in the play.

Ballet Folkorico de Colores de Flagstaff celebrates “¡Mueve el Esqueleto¡” performance at the Orpheum Theater

FLAGSTAFF — The beauty and magic of el Día de los Muertos through folkloric dances from the regions of El Estado de México- Concheros (Aztec dances), Oaxaca, Puebla, Jalisco and Veracruz was presented at the Orpheum Theater on Sunday, Nov. 10, 2024 by Flagstaff’s own award-winning Ballet Folklórico de Colores during its “¡Mueve el Esqueleto¡” celebration.

The fundraiser also included an authentic altar/ofrenda presented by Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces to remember our loved ones who have passed on.

Traditional Mexican food for El Día de los Muertos was also available for purchase.

Grand Canyon National Park Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Campground Fee Increase

GRAND CANYON, AZ.— Grand Canyon National Park is seeking the public’s input on a proposed increase for frontcountry camping fees. This increase would begin April 1, 2025.

Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) collects campground fees from visitors for overnight stays. GRCA is seeking public comment on proposed fee increases for standard tent and RV sites at Mather, Desert View and North Rim campgrounds. The current camping fees have remained unchanged for the past 20 years.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — A Time of Change and Expansion at Lowell Observatory

(On Nov. 8), the leadership of this 130 year old institution will transfer from Executive Director Dr. Jeffrey Hall to Dr. Amanda Bosh, currently the observatory’s chief operating officer. The following weekend, Lowell will celebrate the grand opening of its $53 million Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center (ADC).

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Nov. 4-8, 2024

Monday, November 11: Free Admission to National Parks

In honor of Veterans Day, Grand Canyon National Park and all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone on Monday, November 11. Please note that this fee-free designation does not apply to camping, reservations, tours, or lodging.

Thanks to all our veterans in the park and in our community for your service to the nation!

Sedona Arts Center — New art classes starting this week!

Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!

Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces says ‘Thank You’ to everyone who supported and attended the 21st Annual Anniversary of Celebraciones de la Gente on Oct. 26-27, 2024 at the Museum of Northern Arizona

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces this week offered a big THANK YOU to everyone who supported and attended the 21th anniversary annual Celebraciones de la Gente — Día de los Muertos / Day of the Dead festival at the Museum of Northern Arizona on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 26 and 27.

Celebraciones cultural performances included Mariachi Rubor, a celebrated all-female ensemble, Ballet Folklorico de Colores of Flagstaff, local favorite Alena Chavez and NAU Banda Latino de Caribe. Children and families participated in hands-on activities such as decorating sugar skulls and face painting. Arts and crafts vendors featured art, handmade goods and cultural treasures.

Discover Flagstaff — Stories of Place: Wupatki NM Centennial Commemoration, Wupatki National Monument on Nov. 3 and more events

Join the National Park Service as it highlights the significance of the people, cultures, plants, animals, rocks, fossils, and historic buildings within the monument reflecting on the past 100 years as a national monument. 12 p.m.

Learn More

Coconino National Forest to sell limited number of Christmas tree permits

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest will begin selling a limited number of Christmas tree permits online starting Nov. 14 at 8 a.m., and permit owners will be allowed to begin cutting Nov. 15 through Dec. 31.

A total of 1,300 permits will be available for purchase on the Coconino NF Christmas tree permit site online through Recreation.gov, which also lists details about designated cutting areas, maps, dates, and types of trees that may be cut.

November at the Museum of Northern Arizona

Dear Museum Friends,

As we enter November, I’m filled with gratitude for our community – MNA members, donors, partners, volunteers, board members, and staff whose dedication and passion fuel our mission. Together, we’re able to shine a light on the remarkable treasures of the Colorado Plateau, ensuring they remain accessible to all.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Halloween Safety Tips for Tonight

Happy Halloween from United Way of Northern Arizona!

Tonight will be an exciting time filled with costumes, candy, and spooky adventures. But it’s also important to prioritize safety while trick-or-treating.

As you know, one of our organization’s main priorities is stepping up for youth and that includes making sure they are safe.

Whether you’re planning to walk the neighborhood or attend local festivities, these tips will help keep children safe and make Halloween a memorable experience for all the right reasons.

Before Heading Out: Plan for Safety
Make sure costumes are short enough to avoid tripping hazards and that your child can see through any mask. Attaching reflective tape to costumes or treat bags or carrying glow sticks or flashlights will improve visibility.

Have a plan for your route and stick to familiar, well-lit areas. Ensure that younger children are supervised by an adult and set up a curfew for older kids going out alone.

Supervisor Patrice Horstman — District 1 September / October 2024!

IN THIS ISSUE

Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Community Meetings on Post Wildfire Flood Risks and Upper Rio Forest Restoration
Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Homer Wilkes Returns to Discuss Forest Restoration and Celebrate RFOR’s Sawmill
Governor and Attorney General Join the County in Calling For Review of EIS For Pinyon Plain Mine
Capitol Hill Hears From Coconino County
NRCS Chief and Senior Advisor Tom O’Halleran Tour Flood Mitigation Projects Funded by NRCS
Happy First Anniversary to Baaj Nwaavjo I’Tah Kukveni Ancestral Footprints of The Grand Canyon National Monument
Honoring Former Supervisor Ryan with Matt Ryan County Natural Area
Wildland Fire Leadership Council Meet in Flagstaff
Babbitt Ranch Energy Center Ribbon Cutting Celebration
Mike Scott Retires and Flagstaff Family Food Center Acquires Grand Canyon Food Pantry
Supervisor Horstman Sworn In at the Governor’s Office for the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority Board
Regent Liz Archuleta Honored
Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition Star Party Delivers!
Camp Colton Breaks Ground on New Lodge
In Remembrance of Dr. Miguel Vasquez
Fall Events
Community Resources

Sedona Arts Center — Don’t miss these Art Workshops!

Sedona is surrounded by a magical landscape of red rock formations and high desert hills with beautiful Oak Creek meandering through it all. Come experience the Shangri-La of the Southwest, a beautiful learning environment with Art Colony roots going back nearly 100 years!

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library Week of 10/28/24

View this email in your browser October 28th, 2024 Connect with your community Adult & All-Ages Events Book Clubs Youth Events Friends of the Library Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, please call 928-213-2331…

21st annual Celebraciones de la Gente honors vibrant tradition Oct. 26-27 at Museum of Northern Arizona

FLAGSTAFF — The 21st Annual Celebraciones de la Gente (Celebrations of the People) takes place Oct. 26 and 27 at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Held in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, the community event honors a vibrant tradition with a weekend of remembrances, joy and cultural immersion.

In the spirit of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), Celebraciones invites people to experience the magic of colorful ofrendas (altars), unique tributes to loved ones passed, in the museum’s Jaime Major Golightly Courtyard. As the sun sets on Saturday, the courtyard transforms into a candlelit scene for Courtyard After Dark. Visitors can take in glowing ofrendas under the night sky while enjoying Mexican sweets and hot chocolate.

Discover Flagstaff — Celebraciones de la Gente, Museum of Northern Arizona (Oct. 26-27) and more upcoming events

Join us for a weekend filled with color, culture, and celebration. Presented in partnership with Flagstaff Nuestras Raíces, Celebraciones honors the spirit of Día de los Muertos with heartfelt remembrances and joyful festivities. 10 a.m.

Learn More

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 21-25, 2024

Honoring Heritage: Reflections on the Healing Power of Land and Community at Indigenous Peoples’ Day

“Remember these places that we are enjoying; now that they are more than just tourist destinations, more than recreational playgrounds, more than places where mining companies or helicopter companies are out there to make a buck. When you’re out on that trail and maybe take a moment think about this place as medicine and how it’s probably providing you some healing. When you look at that breathtaking view that is medicine right there…the reason why that the land can do that for us, is because that power is real, and that is all what a scared place is, recognizing that the land has power.” -David Martínez

Culture Connection AZ Events Coming Up!

Help us give our international students, workers, and residents an authentic American Halloween experience! We’ll have pumpkin carving, candy for trick-or-treaters, and costumes to dress up!
Free to participate! Join us from 4pm to 7pm at The Ice House

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 14-18, 2024

Grand Canyon Hosts Successful Indigenous People’s Day Events
On Indigenous People’s Day hundreds of people watched dance performances at two locations. On the canyon rim, in front of Hopi house Crown Dancers from the White Mountain Apache, danced as the clouds cast mood lighting on them. Participants watched as the boys performed dances intended for blessing and healing. Their crowns represented four mountains that are sacred to the Apache and each dancer called “angelic beings”, spirits who lived on the mountains, to come into the crowd.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — View Art in Person this Sunday! F3’s Native American Art Auction

This Sunday Oct. 20th is your chance to view the auction items for sale in F3’s Native American Art Auction. Many beautiful Native American rugs, baskets, pottery, jewelry, and paintings have been donated to F3 by Martha Blue and Oliver (Ollie) W. Johnson. This is an important fundraiser for F3.

All the art items can be viewed in person from 2:00-5:00 pm at Restoration Bodyworks, 222 E. Birch Ave, Suite 2, Flagstaff.

Sedona Arts Center — Don’t miss these Sedona Plein Air Festival Events!

Saturday, October 19, 10am – Noon
Main Street Paint Out
Stroll up and down Uptown Sedona on 89A, from Sedona Arts enter to the Pink Jeep Café, and watch artists paint their surroundings in real time. This event will be
judged by artist Bruce Aiken, an acclaimed Grand Canyon and American Southwest painter. Awards and artworks sale begin at 12:30 p.m. at Sedona Arts Center.