Celebration of 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel draws capacity crowd to cherished icon of local Hispanic community

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Arizona Daily Sun — Gallery: Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel celebrates 100 years

FLAGSTAFF — In a scene that harkened back to a time when the few local Catholic Churches hosted capacity crowds during multiple Sunday services, Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Chapel enjoyed a resurgence during a Mass held in honor of its 100th anniversary on Saturday, May 16, 2026.

Parishioners and community members could be seen standing on either side of the chapel’s pews, while others crowded in the back of the chapel and even outside structure’s heavy wooden front doors.

It was an appropriate turnout for a place that has so much meaning for the local Hispanic community.

“Since its dedication on December 5, 1926, and the inaugural Mass on December 12, 1926, this sacred site has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Southside neighborhoods/Barrios. …” according to a portion of the official proclamation that was read at the event by members of the of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors on May 16.

Coconino Community College holds public forum on May 21 to discussed a proposed new building

Also see:

Arizona Daily Sun (Nov. 10, 2025) — CCC beginning planning process for construction on Flagstaff campuses following bond election
FLAGSTAFF — Members of the local community gathered on May 21, 2026 for a Coconino Community College public forum to discussed a proposed new building at the Fourth Street Campus.

This session, led by Dr. Eric Heiser, president and CEO of the college, was designed to introduce the project and gather feedback from community members, students, faculty, and staff.

College officials said the input will help inform the design and ensure the space reflects CCC’s mission, values, and long-term goals.

While the main campus today is located on Lone Tree, the college actually got its start on Fourth Street near the Sunnyside Neighborhood of Flagstaff.

Community celebrates grand opening of Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition on May 19

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County celebrated the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition on Tuesday, May 19 at Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park.

“This year’s exhibition features large-scale sculptures by artists Pamela Ambrosio, Anjola Ayodele, Robert L. Barnum, Nathaniel Trygg Patterson, and Joe Ray,” the city reported in a media release. “Artworks reflect diverse cultural representation and explore themes of nature, history, and inclusivity. Together, they infuse the park with an engaging visual experience that highlights storytelling and community, while inviting the public to experience the park in new ways.”

Community comes out to celebrate 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel

FLAGSTAFF — From a moving standing-room-only service, to a variety of musical performances, food and inspiring stories, the Northern Arizona community came out in full force for the 100th anniversary of celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Flagstaff on Saturday, May 16. The event included:

Coconino National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest will enter Stage 1 fire restrictions

COCONINO COUNTY — Areas of Coconino County within Coconino National Forest and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest have entered Stage 1 fire restrictions.

With the potential for continued warm, dry and windy conditions throughout Northern Arizona, Coconino County will enter Stage 1 fire restrictions in alignment with area National Forest decisions. Locations and dates for restrictions are listed below.

County fire restriction stages are:

City of Flagstaff — Stage 1 Fire Restrictions begin on May 21

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2026. 

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

Permits for open burning within the City will not be issued.
The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.
Use of fire pits and other open flame devices without an on/off switch are prohibited on Red Flag Warning days, as issued by the National Weather Service. 

Coconino County seeks public input on 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Emergency Management has released the draft 2026 Coconino County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan for public review and comment throughout May.

This comprehensive plan identifies natural hazards that pose risks to communities across Coconino County and outlines strategies to reduce long-term vulnerability to those hazards. Developed through a collaborative process, the plan includes participation from Coconino County; the cities of Flagstaff, Page and Williams; the towns of Tusayan and Fredonia; and Northern Arizona University, along with other stakeholders and partner agencies.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: May 4-8, 2026

North Rim Reopens for 2026 Season

Grand Canyon National Park officially reopened the North Rim for the 2026 season on May 15. The park extends a heartfelt thank you to Grand Canyon Conservancy, the Arizona Trail Association, and Aramark and for their support and partnership in helping ensure reopening remained on schedule for the 2026 season.

Visitors hiking the upper portion of the North Kaibab Trail between Supai Tunnel and the Trailhead are advised to use increased caution while traveling through areas affected by the Dragon Bravo burn scar. Burned landscapes can increase the risk of flash flooding, debris flows, rock falls, erosion and falling trees, particularly during monsoon storms or periods of heavy rain. In cooperation with the U.S. Geological Survey, the park has expanded flash flood monitoring and emergency preparedness efforts throughout the Bright Angel Creek watershed, including the installation of new stream and precipitation gages and enhanced visitor notification systems. Hikers are encouraged to closely monitor weather conditions and heed all posted warnings.

Memorial Day closures for Coconino County

COCONINO COUNTY — Many Coconino County offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on May 25.

Coconino County’s Administrative Center, County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Coconino County Superior Court and Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) office and clinic will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day.  

City of Flagstaff announces Memorial Day closures

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Monday, May 25 in honor of Memorial Day. City Hall offices will reopen on Tuesday, May 26 at 8 a.m.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on Memorial 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.)
Recycling Center (1800E Butler Ave.)

Flagstaff voters approve Regional Plan 2045

COCONINO COUNTY — Results for the May 19, 2026 Special Election indicate that a majority of Flagstaff voters chose “Yes” on Question 492, ratifying the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045. This means that the Plan will be in effect in the City of Flagstaff following the official canvass of the election, which is expected to occur at the June 2 Flagstaff City Council meeting.

Sedona Arts Center — Will You Help Us Finish the Fiscal Year Strong?

I want to share a quick story with you.

Last year, we started the Sedona Entrepreneurial Artist Development Program (SEAD). Since then, a total of 34 artists from Sedona, across the state and beyond have learned the business skills necessary to take their art business to the next level. This incredible program has received acclaim from all who’ve participated and it has made a real difference in these artists lives.

This is what your support does.

As we approach the end of our fiscal year, we’re working to ensure that more stories like this are possible in the months ahead.

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

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

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

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

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

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​​​​​​​

United Way of Northern Arizona — Annual Meeting Shows Community in Action

Every year, our Annual Meeting and Community Impact Celebration reminds me of why this work matters.

This year’s breakfast brought together so many of the business and community leaders who make northern Arizona the special place it is. We celebrated the close of a very successful annual campaign and reflected on the difference we can make when we work together.

Outgoing Board Chair Armando Ruiz said it beautifully: “I have been able to witness first-hand the power of partnership and collective impact. I am so proud of the work we are doing with youth.”

The NAU Review — Get your kicks at the Route 66 exhibition

Now through spring 2027, visitors walking into Cline Library will step into a slice of mid-century America: A glowing motel “No Vacancy” sign, vintage furniture, a guestbook waiting to be signed, a Polaroid camera to capture the moment. The exhibit “Echoes of the Open Road: 100 Years of Route 66 in Arizona” combines archival materials, student scholarship and community storytelling to trace the history of this iconic roadway—from its rise as a cross-country travel route to its cultural afterlife as a symbol of Americana.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Majority Vote “Yes” on Regional Plan 2045 Ratification

The City of Flagstaff has announced that ballots for the Regional Plan Special Election on May 19 have been counted and the results are in. The majority of voters chose to vote “Yes.” This means that the Regional Plan 2045 will take effect immediately as the City’s General Plan.

Yes on Question 492 received 57% of the votes

No on Question 492 received 43% of of the votes

Turnout for the citywide election was 27%.

Sedona Arts Center — Take action to support arts funding in Arizona

Right now, Arizona lawmakers are making critical decisions about the 2027 State Budget — including the future of funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts.

Sedona Arts Center is joining Arizona Citizens for the Arts in urging supporters across the state to speak up now in support of continued arts funding.

An investment in arts and culture is an investment in education, community health, tourism, local economies, and quality of life throughout Arizona. Arts organizations, teaching artists, students, and communities across the state benefit from this essential support.

We encourage you to take a moment today to contact your legislators and ask them to support at least $2 million in ongoing funding for the Arizona Commission on the Arts in the 2027 budget.

Discover the Joy of Making at Sedona Arts Center

Art Classes and Workshops
at Sedona Arts Center
Discover the Joy of Making

Sedona Arts Center offers year-round classes and workshops designed to inspire artists of all experience levels. From painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and photography to mixed media and more, our programs are welcoming, hands-on, and taught by working artists in a supportive creative environment.

Coconino County Board of Supervisors approve proclamation May 12 celebrating Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel 100th anniversary

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors signed a proclamation on May 12, 2026 celebrating 100th anniversary of Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel in Flagstaff.

“WHEREAS, in May of 1925, the Hispanic families of Flagstaff began raising the first funds for a church of their own, and by September 25, 1925, the work commenced on the foundation—an effort that exhausted the full $500 then available but strengthened the community’s resolve; and …” members of the chapel’s caretakers the Guadalupanas began reading during the opening of the proclamation ceremony.

The county stated in its agenda as the reason for the proclamation:

“Since its dedication on December 5, 1926, and the inaugural Mass on December 12, 1926, this sacred site has served as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Southside neighborhoods/Barrios. …

Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar places wreaths at Pearl Harbor

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar had the honor of placing wreaths at Pearl Harbor on Sunday following the National Association of Counties’ (NACo) annual Western Interstate Region (WIR Conference (in Maui County, Hawai’i).

Benatar attended the 40th Anniversary of the USS Missouri’s Cold War Recommissioning where she met with veterans and active military personnel to celebrate their service and achievements. Alongside Jackson County Legislator’s Manuel Abarca IV and Venessa Huskey, she laid wreaths to honor both the USS Missouri and the USS Arizona.

“At the USS Arizona Memorial, I was reminded that service, sacrifice and stewardship are not just ideals, they are responsibilities we carry forward,” Benatar said. “On behalf of Coconino County and my county colleagues through NACo, it was a profound honor to place a wreath in tribute to those who gave everything and to reaffirm our commitment to never forget their legacy.” 

Kids Summer Art Camps at Sedona Arts Center

Summer Youth Clay Camp for Ages 8-12
with Kim Sammartano 
June 1–5, 2026 – 9am-12pm — $200

Let creativity take shape this summer in Youth Summer Clay Camp! Young artists (ages 8–12) will explore handbuilding techniques like pinch pots, coils, and slabs while creating fun, imaginative projects. Campers will also try the pottery wheel and learn about texture, form, and glazing. No experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy. Finished pieces will be kiln-fired and ready for pickup after camp.

City of Flagstaff Beautification – Arts& Sciences — News & Opportunities

View this email in your browser Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Opens May 19 The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture ExhibitionTuesday, May 19. This year’s exhibition features large-scale…

City of Flagstaff — Section of Cedar Avenue to close from May 29 – 31 for final roadway striping

FLAGSTAFF — Cedar Avenue will close to all traffic, from West Street to the Fourth/Lockett roundabout, from Friday, May 29, through Sunday, May 31, to allow crews to safely perform final roadway striping. Cedar Avenue and the Fourth/Lockett roundabout will reopen on Monday, June 1.

This closure will allow crews to safely perform final roadway striping along Cedar Avenue and within the Fourth/Lockett roundabout, as the striping that was completed last fall was temporary for the winter months. This striping effort will be the final work along Cedar Avenue as part of the Spruce Wash Suite of Projects.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel 2026 Centennial Celebration to be held May 16

FLAGSTAFF — 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.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Community partners celebrate 2026 Walk for Wellness — Physical & Mental Health

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

FLAGSTAFF — Hikers, parents and children enjoyed a beautiful spring day to take in some fresh air in celebration of the annual 2026 Walk for Wellness — Physical & Mental Health held on May 9 at Buffalo Park in Flagstaff.

The 5th annual event was held in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month nationally and in Coconino County.

Organizers said event was designed to make taking care of your physical and mental health a habit, raise awareness, reduce the stigma of mental health and enjoy a walk with family and friends.

Some of the organizations participating in the event include Anderson General Tire, Arizona Dept. of Economic Security — Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP), Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, Girl Scouts, Native Americans for Community Action (NACA), the Narbha Institute, National Fire Prevention Education Team from the U.S. Forest Service, Northern Arizona Healthcare — Office of Philanthropy, Oxford House, Pioneer Title Agency, Terros Health, Tynkertopia and We Care Northern Arizona.

City of Flagstaff, Coconino County celebrate year three of the Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition opening May 19

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and Coconino County announce the opening of the third annual Multicultural County Park Sculpture Exhibition Tuesday, May 19, at the Elizabeth “Liz” C. Archuleta County Park in Flagstaff. A reception begins at 10 a.m. and includes a welcome by Vice-Mayor Miranda Sweet and remarks by City and County officials and participating artists. The event is free and open to the public.

This year’s exhibition features large-scale sculptures by artists Pamela Ambrosio, Anjola Ayodele, Robert L. Barnum, Nathaniel Trygg Patterson and Joe Ray. Artworks reflect diverse cultural representation and explore themes of nature, history and inclusivity. Together, they infuse the park with an engaging visual experience that highlights storytelling and community, while inviting the public to experience the park in new ways as they explore its sculpture pathway.