Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: May 19-23, 2025

Remembering Cedric Talley

It is with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of our friend and colleague, Cedric Talley, on the evening of May 15, due to complications from asthma—a condition he had lived with for most of his life. Cedric was a vital and vibrant presence in the NPS community, most recently serving at Grand Canyon National Park as part of the Creative Media Branch. Prior to this, he contributed his talents at Great Smoky Mountains National Park and other parks in roles ranging from Maintenance and Concessions Manager to Youth Conservation Corps Leader and Supervisor.

Cedric joined the National Park Service in 2011 and was a proud graduate of the Southeast Region’s Future Leaders Program. Before his NPS career, he served as a Graphic Designer for the Department of Defense, supporting all military branches under the leadership of the Garrison Commander. He earned his BA in Fine Arts with an emphasis in Graphic Design from LaGrange College and trained with several renowned artists throughout his career.

Cedric’s artistic talent, professionalism, and passion for storytelling through design made a lasting impact on every park and project he touched. At Grand Canyon, he was especially excited about the opportunity to create vibrant, informative interpretive media—waysides, signage, and more—that would enhance visitor understanding and reflect the broad range of people we serve.

Outside of work, Cedric was deeply involved in the local community as a mentor and coach. In fact, just hours before his passing, he was honored with the “Coach of the Year” award from Grand Canyon School—a tribute he accepted with his characteristic humility and grace. Tragically, he became ill shortly after the ceremony.

Cedric loved painting, drawing, and sports, and poured the same passion into his hobbies as he did into his work. More than anything, he cherished his family—his wife, Raukisha, and their two young sons, Noah and Eli. Our hearts go out to them during this incredibly difficult time. Cedric’s homegoing service will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 3 p.m. at Broad Street Church of Christ, 408 Broad Street, LaGrange, GA 30241.

Memories/cards for the family should be sent to the Talley Family at 2351 Zion Canyon Avenue Unit C, Grand Junction, Colorado 81505.

Cedric believed deeply in the mission of the National Park Service and saw himself as a future leader helping to create a welcoming and accessible agency. He once shared, “I love my job because I can convey all of the important messages through my graphic and artistic skills… I feel that I will be able to carry out efforts to bring in people from many different backgrounds… With the agency seen as a place open to all, regardless of who they are.”

Cedric embodied those values every day, and his legacy will live on in the work he did, the lives he touched, and the inspiration he gave to all of us.

2025 Firewise Cleanup Continues Through this Weekend

We need your help in preventing wildfire severity! Now through Sunday, May 25, residents on the South Rim are encouraged to pile woody debris and pine needles along residential roads in areas accessible to vehicles. Park staff will begin moving and hauling debris the week of May 26.

You can make a difference!

• Clear dead woody debris around your residence up to 30 ft.
• Rake pine needles and leaves and minimize collection of dirt and rocks, please!
• Move firewood away from structures (more than 10 ft. recommended).
• Do not collect industrial lumber; this material will be left.

Comments, questions, or concerns? Please reach out to Michael Guarino at Michael_Guarino@nps.gov. More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Memorial Day 21-gun salute at Pioneer Cemetery

On Monday, May 27, American Legion, John Ivens Post 42, will hold its annual Memorial Day 21-gun salute ceremony at the Pioneer Cemetery, located to the west of the Shrine of the Ages. This special event is open to the public to honor Veterans buried in the cemetery.

The event will begin around 11 a.m. and residents here in the park can expect to hear blank rounds being fired on or around this time.

From May 14–June 20, stop by Kolb Studio on the South Rim to see the world through the lens of young photographers from across Arizona. These powerful images—taken by youth from Marana Middle School and Boys & Girls Clubs of Tucson—capture more than just landscapes. They reflect curiosity, wonder, and a growing connection to our nation’s public lands.

Since 1999, the Stewart L. Udall Parks in Focus® Program has helped kids explore the outdoors and tell their stories through photography—from neighborhood parks to the Grand Canyon.

Thanks to support from the Western National Parks Association, the exhibition is free and open daily.

Kolb Studio, South Rim

May 14–June 20, 2025

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Calling All Creators and Stargazers: Apply for the Grand Canyon Artist & Astronomer in Residence Programs

The Artist in Residence program invites artists from diverse disciplines to live and work on the South Rim, creating projects that highlight the park’s natural and cultural histories, with a focus on climate resiliency, environmental sciences, and historical preservation.

Similarly, the Astronomer in Residence program welcomes astronomers, dark-sky advocates, and scientists to share their expertise with visitors, fostering a deeper appreciation for the park’s pristine night skies and raising awareness about the impacts of light pollution. Both residencies support public outreach through engaging programming that deepens visitors’ connections to Grand Canyon National Park.

Each year, artists and astronomers will be selected to spend 3–10 weeks in residence, where they will contribute to the park’s mission of inspiring the public through education and creative engagement. Residency benefits include private housing, stipends for living and travel expenses, and access to park resources and staff. The program is open to international applicants and encourages diverse voices, including Indigenous artists and members of the Grand Canyon community, to apply.

The deadline for applications is July 15, 2025, and a $25 application fee applies (waived for Indigenous applicants and local community members). For more information and to apply, visit the Grand Canyon Conservancy’s website or contact Clover Morell at cmorell@grandcanyon.org.

Saturday-Sunday, May 24–25

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

📍 Desert View Watchtower

Grand Canyon National Park, in partnership with Grand Canyon Conservancy, will be celebrating 11 years of the Cultural Demonstration Program at Desert View!

To honor this milestone, the park will host 12 cultural demonstrators from Associated Tribes, as well as prayers, performances, presentations, speeches, and a special Grand Canyon Speaks program. More information on the Cultural Demonstrations as well as the lineup of events can be found in the attached flyer here or on our park website.

2025 Summer Village Ranger Programs

Friday, May 23 – Sunday, August 31, 2025

Join our rangers for a variety of engaging, free programs that dive into the park’s natural and cultural history. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that outdoor programs may be canceled due to inclement weather or lightning. A flyer for these programs can be found here.

9:00 a.m. | Fossil Walk

Meet at Bright Angel Trailhead

This family-friendly program offers an opportunity to discover fossils on a short walk and learn about ancient life. Junior Rangers especially enjoy exploring a fossil bed where they can uncover brachiopods, sponges, and other marine creatures preserved in limestone for millions of years.

10:30 a.m. | Canyon Rim Walk

Meet at Bright Angel Trailhead

Join a ranger for a scenic walk along the canyon rim. Learn about the Grand Canyon’s diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and the ever-changing landscape.

2:30 p.m. | Geology Talk

Meet at Yavapai Geology Museum

Dive deep into the Grand Canyon’s geological history. Explore the ancient rocks and landscapes that have shaped this natural wonder. The canyon is a geologically young landscape, continually sculpted by forces acting on much older rock layers.

Dan Shein, Fisheries & Vegetation Volunteer

Recently, Superintendent Ed Keable presented long-time volunteer Dan Shein with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for Lifetime Achievement from former President Biden. This award is a significant honor, given to volunteers who have dedicated 4,000 hours of service—an extraordinary commitment. Dan has actually surpassed this milestone, contributing over 4,500 hours to the National Park Service, with much of his time spent in the backcountry working on fisheries and vegetation projects here at Grand Canyon National Park. While this achievement speaks volumes about his dedication, it only begins to reflect the invaluable impact he has made on the fisheries program over the past 10+ years.

To provide a bit of background, Dan retired as Chief of Resources for Arizona State Parks and previously served as a committee staffer for the Arizona House of Representatives, among other roles. While many associate retirement with leisure, Dan has consistently volunteered on rigorous and demanding trips that challenge the ordinary notion of relaxation. Beyond his work with Grand Canyon National Park, Dan has also contributed his time to various organizations, including the American Hiking Society, Arizona Trail, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, NPS Valle Caldera, Grand Staircase/Escalante, Grand Canyon Trust, and many others.

Dan is truly an integral part of the fish crew. He excels in the field and consistently provides thoughtful and constructive feedback following his tours, greatly enhancing our efforts. His ability to collect and record impeccable fisheries data is unmatched, and he is always ready to provide on-the-trail interpretation. Thanks to Dan, countless Grand Canyon visitors have learned about the significance of the park’s native fish and the ongoing work the National Park Service does to protect them, all within the broader context of conservation.

Of course, we cannot acknowledge Dan without mentioning the “Dan Shein Bags”—zipper pouches and stuff sacks that Dan sews from recycled fabrics to give away to crew members during his tours. Receiving one of these bags has become a badge of honor for those who work alongside him.

We are incredibly grateful for Dan’s unwavering commitment and the wealth of experience he brings to our programs. His dedication to conservation and support of our mission is truly inspiring!

Senior Graduation Parade and Ceremony—TONIGHT!

Celebrate the 2025 Phantom Senior Class by coming out for the Senior Graduation parade on Thursday, May 22!

Beginning at 4:45 p.m., the parade will travel through most residential areas on the South Rim and end at the school track. Honk, shout, or wave to the school’s accomplished Seniors as they proceed through the residential areas.

A flyer for the event can be found here as well as a map of the parade route.

Tusayan Blood Drive on May 31

The Tusayan Fire District will host a community blood drive with Vitalant on Saturday, May 31 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Appointments are suggested, and to schedule, individuals can visit www.donors.vitalant.org. Vitalant is the supplier to 96% of Arizona hospitals including the Flagstaff Medical Center.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Save the Date—Community Potluck on June 5 at Rec Center

A potluck for the Grand Canyon Community will be held on Thursday, June 5 at 6 p.m. at the Grand Canyon Rec Center. All residents are welcome and musical guest, Stone and Steel, will be featured.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

Save the Date—KLC Rummage Sale

The Kaibab Learning Center (KLC) is sponsoring a rummage sale fundraiser at the Grand Canyon Rec Center on Fri., June 6 from 4-7 p.m.and on Sat., June 7 from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Household goods, clothing, camping gear, electronics, appliances, and much more will be available.

All proceeds from Rummage Sale will directly benefit KLC by providing essential funds for improved educational materials, and enhanced programs for the children in the Grand Canyon community.

If you would like to donate items to the event, please contact Denise at 928-699-0201 for more information. A full flyer for the event can be found here.

South Rim

Xanterra

• Maswik Food Court, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Maswik Pizza Pub, 4-9 p.m.
• Bright Angel Fountain, 5:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
• Harvey House Café/Fred Harvey Burger Restaurant, Breakfast 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dinner 4-9 p.m.
• Fred Harvey Tavern, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, (food until 9 p.m.)
• Arizona Steakhouse – Lunch 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.
• El Tovar Dining Room and Lounge – Breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9:30 p.m., Lounge 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (food until 9:30 p.m.)
• The Grand Canyon Kennel, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Rec Center, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.
• Fred Harvey Food Truck at Grand Canyon Visitor Center, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Delaware North

• Yavapai Dining Hall, breakfast 7-10:30 a.m., dinner 5-9 p.m.
• Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 12-9 p.m.
• Coffee Shop, 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
• The Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Deli 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
• Camper Services, daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Canyon Adventures Bike Tours and Cafe: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Visitor Center (GCVC): 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Conservancy stores: Verkamps, Yavapai Geology MuseumVisito, and Center Plaza-8 a.m.-8 p.m., Kolb Studio-8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• The Grand Canyon Community Library: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Food Pantry: Monday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday 5:30-7 p.m., Saturday 2-4 p.m.
• Canyon Community Yoga & Wellness (at the Rec Center): Full class schedule can be found here. Use discount GCLOCALS at checkout.
• Shuttle Bus Spring Schedules (March 1 – May 23, 2025)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 6:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 6:00, 7:00, and 8:00 a.m.
• Shuttle Bus Summer Schedule (May 24 – Sep. 7, 2025)
• Hermits Rest (Red) Route: 8:00 a.m. to one hour after sunset
• Village (Blue) Route: 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Kaibab Rim (Orange) Route: 6:00 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Hikers’ Express: Daily departures from Bright Angel Lodge at 4:00, 5:00, and 6:00 a.m.
• Tusayan (Purple) Route, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. with service every 45 minutes

• Inner Canyon:
• CLOSED: River Trail east of River Resthouse to South Kaibab Trail junction: Oct. 21, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025
• CLOSED: Silver Bridge: Oct. 21, 2024-Sept. 30, 2025

Desert View

• Desert View Trading Post and ice cream and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Desert View Watchtower and store, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the last tower access at 5 p.m.
• The Desert View Deli and Market, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Desert View gas station (24 hours), retail: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

North Rim

• North Rim Visitor Center (GCC), 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• NPS Backcountry Information Center, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., 1-5 p.m.
• General Store by campground, 7 a.m.- 8p.m.
• Guest Laundry and Showers, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. staffed, unstaffed from 7-10 p.m.
• Deli in the Pines, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Roughrider Coffee House, 5:30-10:30 a.m., Saloon, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Lodge Dining Room, breakfast 6:30-10 a.m., lunch 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., dinner (reservations required) 4:45-9:45 p.m.

Please visit the Grand Canyon National Park website for a complete list of closures and available amenities.

• Utah agave along the South Kaibab Trail on May 22 (NPS Photo/C. Kraus)
• Cedric Talley
• American flag over the canyon (NPS Photo)
• The 10th anniversary Cultural Demonstration Program Celebration at Desert View in 2024 (NPS Photo)
• Dan Shein with Superintendent Keable accepting his award (NPS Photo/E. Omana)