Category: Youth

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

The NAU Review — NAU partners with Univision to launch new scholarship, Improving Arizona’s transit systems, meet a future PA

Incoming first-year students for the 2025-26 school year can apply for the scholarship by submitting a 250-word essay describing the impact their college degree will have on both their personal trajectory and the Hispanic community at large.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Help Us Reach Our Campaign Goal on Giving Tuesday!

Welcome to the biggest single day of philanthropy on the calendar – #GivingTuesday. Can we count on you to help us reach our 2024 Campaign Goal during this international day of giving?

When you donate, you help LEAD THE WAY and support early childhood development programs and help our youth live up to their full potential. You also help fund programs that meet our community’s needs, quickly and efficiently, in times of crisis.

During our campaign kickoff, we announced a goal of $1.2 million. Today we are two-thirds of the way there, but still need $400,000 to reach our goal. Can you help us bridge the gap today?

Tynkertopia — Please Support Us on Giving Tuesday

iving Tuesday, an International Day of Giving.
Please Donate HERE.

Two Tynkertopia parents,
Reba Allen and Renea Atiemo,
have pledged to match all gifts up to $3,111.

If you have been considering a gift to Tynkertopia, we hope
you will use this opportunity to double your impact and contribute to
Tynkertopia, Flagstaff’s STEAM education center!

Bilingual report — Northern Arizona Interfaith Council to present ‘Let’s Talk About the Current State of Immigration’ on Dec. 4

FLAGSTAFF — The Northern Arizona Interfaith Council will present “Let’s Talk About the Current State of Immigration” at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 4 at Killip Elementary School, 2300 E. 6th Ave., Flagstaff.

Language interpretation available.

Hear from Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly, incoming Coconino County Sheriff Bret Axlund and other public officials and legal experts.

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.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving

We couldn’t do it without you.

At United Way of Northern Arizona, we are committed to Leading the Way, bringing people together to make bold changes to improve communities in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.

Together with you, we are promoting early childhood education, positive youth development, and the safety and security of our friends and neighbors by working to meet basic needs.

This Thanksgiving we are more grateful than ever for your friendship, partnership and support.

Warm wishes for a wonderful holiday,

Liz and the United Way Team

Applicants Sought for the Williams Unified School District Governing Board Vacancy

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget is seeking applicants for an appointment for the Williams Unified School District governing board that will expire December 31, 2026.

Applicants must be Arizona registered voters and residents of the school district for at least one year prior to the date of appointment. Applicants or their spouses cannot be an employee of the district. A first review of applications will commence 30 days following the posting on December 26, 2024. Please turn in your applications by the end of the business day. Applications can be downloaded at this address: https://coconino.az.gov/2855/Governing-Board 

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council — This Thanksgiving Week, Let’s Honor Immigrant Farmworkers

With the approach of Thanksgiving, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the people who make this holiday possible. Many of the fruits, vegetables, and other staples of our Thanksgiving feasts are harvested by immigrant farm workers.

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:

Flagstaff Youth Riders (FLYRS) — Thank You for an Amazing 2024!

As the year draws to a close, we can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we’ve experienced. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who supported FLYRS, helping us serve more youth than ever before. It’s been a year of learning, growth, and, above all, the pure joy of cycling outdoors.

Time and again, we’ve seen the profound impact this sport has on young riders. From conquering challenges to instilling  a love for nature, our youth riders are developing essential life skills like teamwork, resilience, and determination.

Here’s some testimonials from FLYRS parents: 

Flagstaff STEM City — Volunteer Opportunity – The CocoNuts Need Your Help!

Greetings STEM Fans, 

The CocoNuts Robotics Team from Coconino High School, the 2024 HALL OF FAME TEAM from the FIRST World Championships, needs your help to recruit judges for our upcoming FIRST Robotics Tournaments. 

Every year, the CocoNuts run, sponsor and support over 15 robotics tournaments for thousands of students across the state. Additionally, the CocoNuts were named the 2024 STEM City Community Partner of the Year because of our tireless efforts to bring STEM to Flagstaff and Northern Arizona, including the RezBotics initiative, which has resulted in over 20 new robotics teams on the Navajo Nation! 

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.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y System Change Symposium, free webinars having impact far and wide

COCONINO COUNTY —  While the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth’s virtual “System Change Symposium” presentation on Oct. 22, 23 benefitted the more than 200 attendees in Northern Arizona and statewide, one attendee has been using lessons learned from the Symposium, and about CCC&Y’s free webinars in general, to share with a coalition of service provider agencies and others in Alaska.

“I was so excited.” to learn about the Symposium on Facebook,” said Rikki McKay, community coordinator, for the Alaska Department of Health | Division of Public Health, Healthy & Equitable Communities. “It’s so relevant to the work I’m doing.”

McKay said she has shared the information she learned at the Symposium with fellow students in her “Introduction to Social Work” class as well as with the 15 or so members of a coalition of service providers in Alaska. “A lot of people” are learning about the Symposium and the Coalition,” she said. “It has gained appreciation far and wide.”

The 2024 Flagstaff Festival of Science is calling for board member applicants! Deadline Nov. 30th!

Have you wondered what it is like to plan the Festival of Science ensuring science is accessible to all? Would you be interested in contributing to the success of a thriving non-profit organization? Do you have skills or experience in event management, fundraising, governance, marketing or finance?

We are looking for individuals like YOU to share your passion of STEAM and science education. The Festival of Science is an established organization dedicated to community engagement and learning. Consider joining our team for a 2-year term and make an impact in your community!

Guest contribution — American Immigration Council: Biden has 64 days left in office to protect vulnerable immigrants

The federal government currently lacks the resources to fulfill Trump’s pledge of mass deportations in the first months of his presidency, but ICE?can and will act?quickly to target immigrants for arrests. However, before that begins, President Biden has two months left in office to take decisive action to protect people at risk under Trump’s indiscriminate immigration enforcement plans.

Coconino High School students celebrate el Día de los Muertos with third annual shoebox ofrenda competition

FLAGSTAFF — Spanish language and English learning students at Coconino High School celebrated el Día de los Muertos/Day of the Dead with their third annual shoebox ofrenda competition. The winners were selected this week with students and others voting throughout the month.

“The Dead of the Dead Mini altar contest is a competition where students create beautiful and meaningful altars using a shoe box,” said said teacher Francy Solarte. “They can pay tribute to a family member, pet, or person who has contributed to society. They also write an altar dedication in Spanish and their home language. This is an interdisciplinary project between Spanish classes and English Language Learners classes.

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.

Local partners gearing up to Stuff the Bus to benefit Flagstaff Family Food Center

COCONINO COUNTY — The City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, and Mountain Line are once again partnering for a Stuff the Bus event on Sunday, November 17 to benefit the Flagstaff Family Food Center (FFFC). 

This year’s event will be at the Safeway store located at 1201 S. Plaza Way in Flagstaff from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The public is invited to bring non-perishable food donations for a Thanksgiving meal, and FFFC staff and volunteers will be on-hand to accept monetary donations. Additionally, the partners set a goal to stuff the bus with 300 turkeys to help our neighbors in need. 

Xicanx Institute for Teaching & Organizing (XITO) in Tucson announces upcoming Seattle Winter Institute on Feb. 14-16, 2025

We know that many members of our community are feeling a sense of fear and even despair at what the future holds with the shift in administration. It is critical that we support one another and not lose focus of the work at hand to dismantle the systems that have been in place regardless of the current political administration, and that our ancestors have fought and resisted for generations before us. As part of the national Ethnic Studies collective, XITO will continue the critical on-the-ground organizing we’ve been engaged in for years and applying the lessons learned from the past.

United Way of Northern Arizona — Summit Society Profile: Lucinda Andreani

Coconino County Deputy Manager Lucinda Andreani, a long-time member of the Summit Society of United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA), embodies the spirit of giving and community involvement.

Born in California, she has been active in community affairs throughout her life, whether it was helping launch a local chapter of the National Organization for Women or participating in environmental cleanups.

Her journey with United Way began when she was working for the California utility company PG&E, which promoted workplace giving to their local United Ways and provided matching grants for donations. Lucinda was always in the top tier of donors.

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.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y offers families a variety of free webinars

COCONINO COUNTY —  As the hectic holiday season rapidly approaches, the Coconino Coaltion for Children & Youth wants to remind everyone that we have a variety of free webinar training programs on our website to help parents and families at home during the upcoming holiday school vacations.

Our growing library of on-demand webinars is designed to help you gain the tools you need to learn about trauma-informed care, tips to help strengthen family protective factors, examine the effects of historical trauma and adverse childhood experiences, address issues such as bullying and the support to adults and youth through the use of mindfulness practices.

Click on the image above to get a quick look at the various free programs we offer, or get more details below:

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United for Progress: LULAC Vision for a Stronger Latino Future

As the oldest Latino civil rights organization in the nation, LULAC stands firmly committed to uplifting and empowering the Latino community across America—working to strengthen economic and educational opportunities and to protect our civil rights.

For nearly a century, LULAC has been here, side by side with the communities we serve, tirelessly working toward a future that fulfills the dreams of our families and honors the sacrifices of those who came before us. Now, as we look to the horizon, we welcome the opportunity to work with President Donald J. Trump, Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, all of last night’s elected officials, and the incoming Administration. Together, we are called to build a future that holds space for all our stories, our voices, and our dreams.

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!

United Way of Northern Arizona — Developing a Teen Center Solution in Holbrook

Last year, United Way of Northern Arizona was a partner in a project to help teens in Navajo County survey their peers about current mental health issues facing youth in northeast Arizona.

One of the items to emerge from that survey was that teens in the area were eager for a space to call their own – a teen center.

Now Grow Arizona Workforce Network is pursuing a plan that would establish a facility to not only provide a safe and supportive environment for teens, but to develop the region’s future workforce.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Join us for our next Prevention Council Zoom meeting on Nov. 7 to share your story

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, Nov. 7. 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 guest speaker for this week is Jason D. Gillette, CEO of the Guild Health Group

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.

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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.

CCC Community Education — November-December classes: Your Financial Plan & Comet Talks

Pillars of Your Financial Education

Wednesday, Nov. 6, 13, 20
5:45 to 7:15 p.m.

Improve your financial education with clear and practical information on the pillars of a financial plan: saving, preserving, transferring.

Financial – Learn more and register!

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

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

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 28-Nov. 1, 2024

Voting on November 5th

The 2024 Arizona elections will take place on Tuesday, November 5, coinciding with the nationwide general election. As we’ve seen in previous elections, every vote matters, and we strongly encourage all employees and community members to exercise their right to vote.

For those working in the park, you can cast your ballot at the Shrine of the Ages, precinct #59, on Election Day. Voters registered in Coconino County have the option to vote at their designated precinct polling place or at any Vote Center available on Election Day. Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and if you are in line at 7 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote.

For up-to-date information on polling locations and additional details, please visit the Coconino County Elections website at www.coconino.az.gov/elections or call 928-679-7860.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y celebrates successful System Change Symposium

COCONINO COUNTY — With more than 200 virtual attendees, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth celebrated its inaugural “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation on Oct. 22 and 23.

“This type of work overwhelmingly moves people to action. It inspires them toward love and care of others as we pause to view differing perspectives and to understand issues in multi-dimensional ways,” said Virginia Watahomigie, executive director of CCC&Y.

CCC&Y curated an array of speakers and topics to help our community understand what system change is, why we need it and some tools and support to improve how things are done. See information on speakers below.

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“It has been such a joy to see the positive interaction with the speakers and the material. Occasionally, it can kick up some feelings that express themselves in a wide variety of ways and some push back can be seen,” Watahomigie said. “We are committed to continuing this work and moving these initiatives forward.  At the risk of sounding like a soundbite, and paraphrasing, I remember that Maya Angelou encouraged us to do better when we know better. The trick can sometimes be the willingness to know better.”

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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!

The NAU Review — Celebrating Indigenous heritage, new research on Maya archaeology and the right way to brush your teeth come Halloween

Celebrate Native American Heritage Month

A commitment to Indigenous Peoples is an important part of NAU—a priority enshrined in the university’s strategic plan. For the second consecutive year, NAU has another record-breaking attendance of Native American and Indigenous students, who represent more than 110 Native American Tribes/Nations, Alaska Native Villages and Native Hawaiian communities.

In November, NAU celebrates Native American Heritage Month, an annual event designated in 1990 as National American Indian Heritage Month. It is the time of year to come together to honor and celebrate Native American and Indigenous cultures, traditions, knowledges and protocols. NAU honors its commitment to Indigenous Peoples with a robust calendar of more than 20 events spread throughout the month, which all are welcome to attend. 

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

United Way of Northern Arizona — Nestle Purina and Joy Cone Lead the Way for United Way

Co-coordinators Robin Ayers, HR Manager, and Michelle Brown, Senior HR Coordinator, led Nestle Purina’s campaign this year with a mission of engaging employees and inspiring community support.

“When we can step up and make a difference, it is recognizable to others, which can encourage other agencies and individuals to do the same,” said Michelle. “We’re proud of our employees who are involved in community outreach.”

Nestle Purina introduced their workplace campaign during quarterly business meetings, combining informational presentations on the work of UWNA with opportunities to donate. Raffles were held for anyone completing a pledge form with additional prize opportunities for staff members who met specified donation goals.

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

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Families gather information at Flagstaff Mall’s 2024 Health and Wellness Fair

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — This is the last chance to register for the Coconino Coalition of Children & Youth’s “System Change Symposium” Zoom presentation from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 23.

More than 125 individuals signed up for the Oct. 22 event.

The symposium provides details on What is System Change? Why Do We Need It? How Do We Make It Happen?

“The speakers today had very relevant information. I appreciated the focus on intergenerational trauma and how systemic systems contribute to people’s trauma – this feels so relevant to Northern Arizona living on and near tribal lands and being a border state where children have been separated from parents for an extended length of time,” said Dylan Wilder of TransIntimate Online Courses. “Learning more about Vitalyst Spark Grants and the different pillars of systemic change was a critical and helpful lens for me.”

The symposium also provides information on How do we come together for true change? How do we address root cause issues and create positive outcomes, health and thriving for all?

“…The Symposium provided information which was helpful – on a macro level to educate the audience about the broad concepts surrounding Systems Change as well as on a personal level as we learned more about how we as humans experience and react to the world around us affects the way we function,” said Sandra Diehl of the Coconino County Public Defender’s Office.

The event is hosted by CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie, who will speak about the Coalition’s Reimagine Community Project — A Trauma-Informed System Change program the Coalition is partnering with the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County. CCC&Y was one of four organizations in Arizona to be selected for the Vitalyst Health Foundation’s System Change Grant

The event is free for those who live or work in Coconino County, $20 full day for all others. Register HERE for the Oct. 23 event.

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