Across Arizona, public educators know how to help their students succeed, but they often think they can’t make meaningful change without permission from the state. Permission Granted, a new tool co-developed by NAU’s Arizona Institute for Education and the Economy, aims to show schools there’s more flexibility than they think—and they can use it to their advantage to adjust bell schedules, launch career-readiness initiatives and more.
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — Please join CCC&Y for its
next Prevention Council Zoom meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 5. Our next guest speaker will be Brandy Stuhan, Coconino County Youth Behavioral Health Center Clinical Director.
Our meetings provide our coalition partners with the opportunity to share the latest news about their projects that support children, youth and their families in Northern Arizona.
The Council meets the first Thursday of the month.
Want to be a guest speaker at our next meeting? Send an email to CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie at coalition@coconinokids.org to be placed on the agenda or to receive a Zoom link to our next meeting.
READ MORE
FLAGSTAFF — During the March 3 meeting, the Flagstaff City Council received information about protocols to be utilized during interactions with federal agencies. These protocols include a directive on the use of City property by outside agencies, a notice to guide City employees if federal law enforcement personnel visit a City workplace, and a form for members of the community to report concerns. Staff also reiterated that the Flagstaff Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws but also cannot interfere with or prevent lawful federal activities.
The Flagstaff Festival of Science proudly announces its 2026 theme, “Driven by Curiosity,” celebrating the exploration and innovation that propel discovery and shape our world. The 10-day festival will run September 25 – October 4, 2026, bringing together scientists, educators, students, and lifelong learners for engaging programs across Flagstaff and beyond.
The Festival will open on September 25 with the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation in NAU’s Ardrey Auditorium by technology leader Kirk Dunsavage, whose talk explores the intersection of science, engineering, and the human spirit of exploration.
March 7-28, 2026
Youth Arts Exhibition Opening Reception March 7, 4-8 pm
Youth Talent Showcase CCA Theater March 7, 5-7 pm
This year’s exhibition features a record number of 510 pieces by over 300 regional youth artists!!
Coconino Center for the Arts’ 2026 Youth Arts Exhibition invites local youth artists from Coconino County and the regional community to exhibit their recent artwork at CCA. The exhibition is open to and inclusive of all artwork submissions by youth artists, Pre-K to 12th grade, that reflect the theme From Ordinary to Extraordinary.
From first cue to final bow, Jacks take the lead
Students in NAU’s theater program don’t just perform—they also produce. Every theater production runs entirely on student power, with Lumberjacks stepping into the spotlight, building sets, programming lights, mixing sound, patching costumes, promoting shows and managing the chaos. It’s all about teamwork, community and hands-on learning.
Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget proudly recognizes these exceptional teachers for their passion, innovation and unwavering commitment to students and their communities.
The winners will be revealed at the 13th Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards on Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff — an evening dedicated to celebrating the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of Coconino County students.
FLAGSTAFF — Dive into the rich and diverse stories of the Latino communities — Mexican, Basque, Spanish, Chicano — that have shaped the vibrant tapestry of Flagstaff. This interactive course offers a dynamic introduction to the people, traditions, industries, and historic sites that have played a vital role in the city’s development.
From prominent families and community celebrations to hidden histories and cultural legacies, you’ll uncover the often-overlooked contributions that continue to define the beauty, strength, and spirit of Flagstaff. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong resident, this journey through local heritage will deepen your connection to the city and its multicultural roots.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and its contractor, Ames Construction, will begin the next phase of the Lone Tree Overpass project on Monday, March 2. The project area is Butler Ave. between O’Leary St. and Lumber St. and Lone Tree Rd. between Butler Ave. and Sawmill Rd. The work entails roadway reconstruction, installation of water line, sanitary sewer, and storm drains, improvements to concrete curb and gutters, sidewalks, and driveways, and re-alignment to add bike lanes and multi-use travel paths. The work is expected to be completed in December 2026.
Upcoming Classes Writing and Renewal Wednesday, April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 1:30 to 3 p.m. Through writing prompts, the group will reflect, renew, share stories, and enhance their creativity. Seasoned and beginning writers alike are welcome! Writing – Learn…
Friday-Sunday, Feb. 28-March 1
The Dumbwaiter and Los Vendidos
The Studio Theater
The one act play highlights the use of fear and a sense of unease to create humor. Various times.
Learn More
FLAGSTAFF — Join Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) for a film screening of A Song for Cesar! The film aims to educate generations old and new about civil rights activist Cesar Chavez’s legacy of impactful, peaceful protest.
The inaugural Cesar Chavez Film Screening will be held on Monday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Coconino Center for the Arts.
A Song for Cesar, a documentary film by Abel Sanchez and Andres Alegria, presents a unique view of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and the farmworker movement.
Join us in the celebration Mass of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel as we honor one hundred years of faith, devotion, and community. Through scripture, gospel, and uplifting hymns, we celebrate the enduring love for Nuestra Virgen de Guadalupe and the Chapel that has been a safe haven for generations. We remember with gratitude the founding families whose dedication built this Chapel and whose legacy continues to inspire us today. This joyful Mass celebrates a century of shared faith and the blessings that unite our community
Click below for the latest news updates from the:
Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes
Spring Operational Changes Begin March 1
As spring break approaches, visitors and park residents should be prepared for long lines and full parking lots. Traffic congestion at the South Entrance Station is heaviest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking lots near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center will begin to fill by noon. The South Entrance webcam (updated every five minutes) continues to be a great way to monitor traffic.
LIMITED SEATS: Sunday, March 1, 7:30 pm
One of Canada’s finest artists, Bruce Cockburn has enjoyed an illustrious career shaped by politics, spirituality, and musical diversity. The Ottawa-born artist remains deeply respected for his activism on issues from native rights and land mines to the environment and Third World debt, working for organizations such as Oxfam, Amnesty International, Doctors Without Borders, and Friends of the Earth.
March 7-28, 2026
Youth Arts Exhibition Opening Reception March 7, 4-8 pm
Youth Talent Showcase CCA Theater March 7, 5-7 pm
Coconino Center for the Arts’ 2026 Youth Arts Exhibition invites local youth artists from Coconino County and the regional community to exhibit their recent artwork at CCA. The exhibition is open to and inclusive of all artwork submissions by youth artists, Pre-K to 12th grade, that reflect the theme From Ordinary to Extraordinary.
How can everyday objects and experiences become magical, through art?
Our objective is to engage youth audiences throughout Northern Arizona and support a wide range of art disciplines.
VIDEO: The canoe bug hypothesis
Jut Wynne, assistant research professor in the Department of Biological Sciences, set sail on a 1,700-nautical-mile voyage across the South Pacific in search of new species of invertebrates that could help timestamp the movements of early Polynesians across the islands. Watch his journey and find out what he discovered.
Meet concerned, like-minded neighbors who care deeply about creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for everyone. Learn about the progressive organizations working locally to strengthen Flagstaff, protect civil rights, and promote equity.
You’ll also hear from City Council candidates Patty Hansen and Austin Aslan about their vision, priorities, and commitment to thoughtful, community-centered leadership.
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — While summer seems far away, it’s time for families to start checking out potential summer camp programs in Coconino County.
The following is a listing compiled by CCC&Y. Contact individual programs for more information on their 2026 summer camps.
Please check with individual organizations to confirm times, dates, other information. Please visit the links below to see if registration is still available. Registration deadlines may have already passed for some programs.
If your organization would like to be added to this listing, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org
READ MORE
Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center …and Online!
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
The year is already alive with music at Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, and this weekend, we bring that energy to a new space in town. Join us Saturday, February 28 at 3:00 PM for our second Max Jerrell Community Concert of the season at Shepherd of the Hills Church (1601 N. San Francisco St.).
FSO musicians and friends perform Dohnányi’s Serenade for Strings and Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, two masterful works of drama and intimacy.
Shaping the world one sound at a time
Jordan Strohmeyer is exploring how audio shapes our world. Through the Lumberjacks Thrive Externship program, he has made connections and gained an inside look at what the industry he wants to explore after graduation is like, finding inspiration at the intersection of art and science.
We’re thrilled to announce that Culture Connection AZ is relaunching our beloved Culture Kitchen program — live and in person!
Join us on Sunday, March 22 at 11:00 AM at Shift Kitchen & Bar (107 N. San Francisco St.) for a delicious and hands-on culinary experience.
FLAGSTAFF — Mary Goodman has been selected to serve as the new Flagstaff Deputy City Manager and will begin in the role effective April 27. Her appointment follows an open and highly competitive recruitment process that attracted more than 180 applicants. Mary will assume the position previously held by Joanne Keene, who became City Manager in November 2025.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park is implementing water conservation measures on the South Rim following a power outage that impacted the SCADA system at the Havasupai Gardens pumphouse. As a result, water is currently unable to be pumped to the South Rim.
All park residents and visitors are required to conserve and reduce water usage wherever possible in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds.
Water conservation measures include:
“Our seasonal employees are the backbone of summer operations—keeping our campgrounds, trails and recreation sites open, safe and welcoming for visitors,” said Coconino National Forest Supervisor Aaron Mayville. “These positions offer meaningful work, hands-on experience and the chance to support public lands close to home.”
FLAGSTAFF — City of Flagstaff Public Works Director Scott Overton recently graduated from the Arizona City/County Management Association (ACMA) Management Academy. The Academy is a statewide program offered by ACMA that provides intensive leadership and management training within the context of local government to help build the leadership development pipeline. The program is 10-months long and includes topics of study such as stakeholder relationship management, legal frameworks, municipal budgets, workforce planning, and communications.
FLAGSTAFF — Community members and organizations are being asked to rally to support local cultural icon — Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff.
The organization has launched a fundraising campaign after it reported it may lose more than $13,000 in funds due to the bankruptcy of the Oakland-based fundraising platform Flipcause Inc.
“Storms don’t break real teams. They reveal them,” the Ballet Folklorico reported on its Facebook page.
“We want to be real with you all about where we are right now.”
Flipcause has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with more than 3,000 nonprofit organizations owed more than $29 million.
Also see:
• State of California Dept. of Justice — Funds Being Held by Flipcause? You Are Not Alone: Attorney General Bonta Announces Guidance for Affected Nonprofit Organizations
• Oakland Voices — Flipcause files bankruptcy, owing $29 million to nonprofits across country
Discover Flagstaff publishes Flagstaff 365 Happenings on a weekly basis to highlight local events happening in and around Flagstaff. “Flag Happs” is distributed throughout Downtown Flagstaff, displayed in kiosks and storefronts, and also available at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. Below are some highlights of the week.
FLAGSTAFF — The City received confirmation on Feb. 19 that all Flock Safety cameras covered under the City’s contract have been physically removed.
The Flagstaff City Council voted in December 2025 to terminate the City’s contract with Flock Safety for automated license plate recognition technology. Following that decision, all cameras covered under the contract were immediately turned off and stopped collecting data.
FLAGSTAFF — We’re hiring a Library Director to lead the City of Flagstaff’s library system and the Coconino County Library District.
This full-time executive leadership role oversees multiple city and county branches, supervises senior staff, directs budgeting and strategic planning, manages IT and collections, and serves as a key liaison to City Council, the County Board of Supervisors and community partners. The position plays a critical role in ensuring our libraries continue to meet the informational, cultural and educational needs of our region.
VIDEO: Run like a girl
Looking to swing your axe of service this year? Local nonprofit organization Girls on the Run is looking for coaches who can help teach perseverance, inner and outer strength and the joy of physical activity to girls in third through eighth grade. Watch a video to learn more about Girls on the Run, then visit NAU’s Axe of Service website to get involved.
Winter Weather Update for Residents and Employees
Hello, winter! Yesterday’s winter storm brought 3-4 inches of fresh snow to the South Rim. As of this afternoon,Desert View Drive remains closed due to icy road conditions and is likely to remain closed for the remainder of the day on Feb. 19 due to incoming predicted snowfall. As of this morning, admin travel for Desert View Drive has been lifted—however, roads remain icy and snow-packed. For the latest road status updates, call the park roads line at 928-638-7496.
I’m excited to share that the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona has launched a refreshed website at econa-az.com, and I invite you to take a look.
This new site was built with you in mind. Whether you are a partner in our region’s growth, a business exploring expansion opportunities, or site selector looking for a home for your company, we wanted to make it easier to find what you need, and show why northern Arizona is a smart place to do business.
Two of Minnesota’s finest musicians team up for an intimate and unforgettable evening.
David Huckfelt is a singer/ lyricist /activist and founding frontman of Minneapolis indie-folk cult favorites “The Pines”. With improvisational mastery, Huckfelt’s shows and songs have earned him a devoted following from small-town opera houses & theaters to national festival stages.
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.
Each week, the Coalition produces a weekly newsletter where we share partner news and events in our blog section and links to community resource meetings.
READ MORE
The Flagstaff Festival of Science announces a new opportunity to join our passionate team! We strive towards excellence in community engagement, creating opportunities for lifelong learning, all the while celebrating science in Flagstaff.
Check out the position description and apply today!
The Program Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all programmatic components of the Flagstaff Festival of Science’s annual 10-day science festival and related initiatives.
Key tasks include:
Join us for a night of celebration, reflection, and school-spirit–level pride as we honor the individuals and organizations who have helped shape our community and move it forward. Think: a reunion with purpose, a celebration of growth, and a reminder of just how far we’ve come—together.
February is ‘Love of Reading’ month, and it’s a celebration that is close to our hearts here at United Way of Northern Arizona. Literacy is key to our work supporting early childhood development and – fueled by your generosity – we help instill that love of reading every day.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is excited to congratulate City Manager Joanne Keene on receiving the 2026 ATHENA Award. The ATHENA® International Leadership Awards program is a prestigious initiative that recognizes and honors individual women for their outstanding achievements and contributions in leadership, mentorship, and community service.
For the Dorsey 5, being a Lumberjack is in their blood. From 2017 to 2023, Justin, Brandon, Brittni, Khalil and Tommie have graduated from NAU, creating a legacy of excellence—three were student-athletes (Khalil is now a cornerback for the Detroit Lions), and Brittni earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Learn how they’re continuing that legacy as alums.
The City of Flagstaff invites artists, community members and groups, schools, and local businesses to apply for a Beautification in Action (BIA) grant to enliven our community’s public spaces. Projects can take the form of community gardens, neighborhood paths, benches, sculptures, murals, and more. Priority will be given to community-initiated projects that provide a lasting impact—fostering cultural connections, strengthening neighborhood awareness and identity, and deepening how residents and visitors interact with the built environment. All projects must be publicly and visually accessible. Up to $8,000 is available per project.
Flagstaff Airport (FLG) is excited to announce that beginning May 21, American Airlines will upgrade its Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) service to a larger aircraft. The Airbus A319 will replace the current CRJ700, more than doubling seat capacity and marking the first time a mainline aircraft will serve FLG.
At Sedona Arts Center, creativity is meant to be experienced. Our classes and workshops — from iPhoneography and oil painting to sculpting, stained glass, ceramics, and pottery for teens and beginners — are designed to be welcoming, hands-on, and inspiring. Whether you’re exploring something new or building on existing skills, you’ll learn from working artists in a supportive environment that values curiosity, craft, and creative joy — all in the heart of Sedona.
FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest is planning pile burns today and this week, pending all required approvals and favorable weather conditions. Pile burns are a type of prescribed fire used to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.
Pile burns planned for the area include:
Get ready to tease your hair and dust off your favorite crinoline! Theatrikos is over the moon to announce the cast for our second Mainstage production of the season, The Marvelous Wonderettes, directed by the talented Matthew Windham.
This high-energy jukebox musical whisks us back to the 1958 Springfield High School Prom, where four best friends with big dreams and even bigger voices take the stage. We’ve found a quartet of powerhouse performers ready to deliver those iconic four-part harmonies and classic hits like “Lollipop,” “Dream Lover,” and “Lipstick on Your Collar.” From the bubblegum pop of the 50s to the soulful girl-group sounds of the 60s, these ladies are ready to sing their hearts out.
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Office proudly celebrates the outstanding young scholars who competed in the 2026 Coconino County Spelling Bee, an inspiring showcase of academic excellence, perseverance and the power of learning.
Cheryl Mango-Paget, Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, is thrilled to announce this year’s champions:
• First Place: Erin Ebers, Mount Elden Middle School
• Second Place: Tyla Hoffa, Maine Consolidated Schools
• Third Place: Saneela Mirza, DeMiguel Elementary School
I Heart Pluto Festival
Various Locations
As part of the centennial celebration of Route 66, this year’s event centers around the connection between Pluto and Route 66, as well as the 20th anniversary of Pluto’s reclassification. Various Times.
Dear Museum Friends,
As we move into the new year, I’d like to share why becoming a member of the Museum of Northern Arizona means a deeper connection to the Colorado Plateau you love, as well as belonging to a community of people who share that interest.
Members enjoy all that MNA has to offer with free year-round general admission to the Museum, early access to exhibitions and events, invitations to member-only experiences, and discounts on select programs and in the Museum Gift Shop. Some membership levels also include reciprocal admission to cultural institutions across the U.S. and Canada through the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) Association—an especially valuable perk for frequent travelers and museum lovers.
Friday, February 13, 7:30 pm
Over the course of his thirty-year career, Nolan McKelvey has covered nearly every corner of the country and traversed all roads of Americana. From the pavement of alt-country, to the dusty trails of bluegrass, to the gravel roads of classic-country, to the interstate highway of rock-n-roll.
Joining him for this intimate performance is Jesse Valenzuela, founding member of Gin Blossoms. For more than three decades, Jesse has provided the multi-platinum group with hit songs (“Til I Hear It From You,” “Follow You Down,” “Mrs. Rita”), masterful guitar playing and exquisite harmony singing.
WILLIAMS — The Kaibab National Forest will be hiring seasonal employees for the upcoming recreation season and is encouraging local residents to apply.
“Our seasonal employees are the backbone of summer operations—keeping our campgrounds, trails and recreation sites open, safe and welcoming for visitors,” said Kaibab National Forest Supervisor Nicole Branton. “These positions offer meaningful work, hands-on experience and the chance to support public lands close to home.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb. 16. City Hall offices will reopen on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
City of Flagstaff facilities that are closed on Presidents’ Day include:
East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N. Izabel St.)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)
Cinder Lake Landfill and Hazardous Products Center (6770 E Landfill Rd.)
Register NOW for Upcoming Programs
Teaching High School in a Time of Polycrisis
begins Feb. 22nd
“How Tyranny Works”
begins March 1st
“Surveillance, Privacy, & Democracy
begins March 31st
Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower
begins April 4th
