Government, Local, News, Public Safety

New lightning-caused fire on Tusayan Ranger District

by  • 

TUSAYAN — A new lightning-caused wildfire discovered last week east of Tusayan will be managed in a confine and contain strategy within designated areas to reduce fuel loads and promote healthier landscapes.

The Lockett Fire started on June 29 and is located approximately 12 miles east of Tusayan along the Coconino Rim, between Forest Road 307 and Forest Road 310. It is currently 16 acres burning in ponderosa pine forest, moving with a slow rate of spread and consuming pine needle duff and dead-and-down woody debris and stumps on the forest floor. This fire is burning in the footprint of the 2014 Belknap Fire.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, women, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Start learning about Summer Food, Summer Reading Programs, upcoming Back to School events in Coconino County

by  • 

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

With Summer here, parents can still get information on ongoing Summer Programs including food security, reading support and more throughout Coconino County.

Also, check on our new Back to School events resource listing to get your child prepared of the upcoming school year.

Please check with individual organizations to confirm times, dates, other information.

The Coalition will continue to update this resource list. If you have a program you want us to include, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org.

Thank you. (Updated July 2, 2024).​​​​​​​

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Family, Government, Health, Local, News

City of Flagstaff Approves Settlement Agreement with Area Indigenous Nations and Tribes Over Regional Water Rights

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — On Tuesday, July 2, the Flagstaff City Council passed a resolution to approve the Northeastern Arizona Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 2024. This historic agreement ends years of costly and protracted litigation over surface water and groundwater rights claims by the Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, and the United States.  The parties to the Settlement Agreement confirm certain water rights of the City of Flagstaff and other towns and communities, the Salt River Project, the Central Arizona Water Conservation District, Arizona Public Service, various irrigation districts, ranching operations and other parties.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Entertainment, Events, Local

United Way of Northern Arizona — Wishing You a Happy Independence Day

by  • 

As we come together to celebrate the birth of our nation, it’s a perfect time to reflect and remember the values that unite us: freedom, equality, and the unwavering spirit of community.

Independence Day honors not only those who founded our country, but also each person committed to a future where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbor, volunteering in our communities, or supporting those in need, every act of kindness makes a difference. Thank you, as always, for Living United. Together, we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News

City of Flagstaff announces Fourth of July closures

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Thursday, July 4 in honor of the Fourth of July holiday. City Hall offices will reopen Friday, July 5 from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on the Fourth of July 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.)
Hazardous Products Center (6770 E Landfill Rd.)

Read more →

Business, Commentary, Cultural, Family, Government, Health, Local, News

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — An Update on F3’s Spring and Summer Work

by  • 

It’s been a busy spring and beginning of summer here at F3! Below are short updates on some of the issues on which we have been working.

The city’s proposal to allow housing on lands zoned “Public Facility”
F3 did a deep dive into the city’s proposal to allow housing on lands zoned “Public Facility.” After many conversations with city staff and careful consideration over nearly two months, F3 decided to support the zoning code amendment because the city included the requirement for any development proposal to go through the Conditional Use Permit process. Read our final letter to Council on March 14 for more information.

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

City of Flagstaff to begin annual Road Repair and Street Safety Project

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — The City will begin work on the 2024 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) project on Monday, July 8. The project will address numerous deteriorated roads around the city, with work including milling, paving, and updates to utilities, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, and pavement markings. The goal of the RRSS project is to update infrastructure for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and other modes of transportation.

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Grand Canyon National Park to lift Stage 2 Fire Restrictions Monday, July 1

by  • 

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Effective on Monday, July 1 at 8 a.m., Stage 2 fire restrictions are rescinded for the entire Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity throughout northern Arizona has significantly lowered the fire danger risk within the last week.

Grand Canyon National Park will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

Read more →

Cultural, Entertainment, Events, Family, Local, News, Youth

Theatrikos Theatre Co. July Newsletter — Sing it! The sun’ll come out tomorrow!

by  • 

The big summer musical Annie comes to the Flagstaff stage. It’s a hard knock life—but this beloved family classic will fill your heart with love and joy. Winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. 

“The audience will love the energy and the laughs as well as the talented cast,” said Teri Gochanour who plays Mrs Gear. “It’s a feel-good show that will have everyone humming and singing along long after the show.”

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

City of Flagstaff holds swearing in ceremony for new Chief of Police

by  • 

Sean Connolly, center, was officially sworn in as Flagstaff Chief of Police at a ceremony held during the City Council’s work session on June 25.

Connolly, who takes over from retiring Chief of Police Dan Musselman, was sworn in during an event attended by family, friends, law enforcement officials from Phoenix and Chandler — and a surprise bagpipe performance by City of Flagstaff Senior Assistant City Attorney Marianne E. Sullivan.

Connolly, who was born in Flagstaff, served in the Phoenix Police Dept. for more than 30 years in such capacities as police commander and assistant police chief. He earned his master’s degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Arizona.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Local, News, Seniors, women, Youth

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 24-28, 2024

by  • 

Town of Tusayan Fourth of July Celebration

Join community members from the Town of Tusayan and Grand Canyon Village for the annual Fourth of July celebration from 3:30 to 10:30 p.m.

Kid’s bike decorating begins at 3:30 p.m., parade line-up starts at 3:45, and the parade will begin at 4:30. Additional events and activities include: live music from local bands, food, auction items, Native American dancers, kid’s games, and a drone show after dark.

For more information on this event and to register to be in the parade, visit the town’s website here.

Read more →

Cultural, Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

Elevate PreK Seeking Students

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — Elevate PreK, the highly successful initiative that provides free, year-round, high-quality preschool education to 4-year-olds, is seeking students for the upcoming academic year.

The program was developed as part of the LAUNCH Flagstaff initiative at United Way of Northern Arizona. After completing a three-year pilot program through Candelen, Elevate PreK will continue its fourth year through UWNA.

Read more →

Business, Government, Health, Home, Local, News, Public Safety

Coconino County Downgrading to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions Friday Morning

by  • 

COCONINO COUNTY — After consultation with partner agencies in the region, Coconino County Emergency Management (CCEM) and the County Manager’s Office will be downgrading the County’s fire restrictions to Stage 1 on Friday June 28, 2024 at 8 a.m.

During Stage 1 fire restrictions the following activities are prohibited at all times, unless exempted by the County’s Wildfire Defense Ordinance: 

Igniting, building, maintaining, or using a fire, including fires fueled by combustible materials such as wood, charcoal, briquettes, and/or coal.  
Smoking outdoors. 
Use of explosive targets, tracer rounds, or incendiary ammunition. 

Read more →

Business, Government, Health, Home, Local, News, Public Safety

City of Flagstaff moving back to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on June 28

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF —The City of Flagstaff will move back to Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024.

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.

Read more →

Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

Coconino National Forest moving back to Stage 1 fire restrictions

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — Due to the amount of rain the forest has received over the last several days that reduced the criteria for meeting Stage 2, Coconino National Forest will move back to Stage 1 fire restrictions Friday (June 28) at 8 a.m.

Stage 1 restrictions prohibit fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, wood stoves, and smudge pots, except within a developed recreation site. Smoking is also prohibited, except within an enclosed vehicle, building or an official developed recreation site. Fireworks are always prohibited on all national forests.

Read more →

Business, Cultural, Entertainment, Events, Family, Government, Local, News, Youth

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Celebrating the 4th of July in Northern Arizona

by  • 

It’s no secret that 4th of July events can be an economic driver, with parades, festivals, and fireworks prompting tourists to visit communities large and small. In northern Arizona we are fortunate to have a wide range of Independence Day events for visitors – and locals – to enjoy.

The celebrations start early in Flagstaff where hundreds of runners will compete in the Downtown Mile, a series of races held prior to the annual 4th of July Parade. There are races for all levels of runners, including elite races for cash prizes and one just for children. The first race starts at 6:30 am.

Read more →

Business, Government, Health, Home, Local, News

City of Flagstaff — Schultz Creek Drainage Improvements Project at US Hwy 180 experiences delays

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — The Schultz Creek Drainage Improvements Project at US HWY 180 has experienced delays from unforeseen developments in the relocation of existing utility lines. The project is now expected to be substantially complete by the last week of July. Road paving and landscaping will commence by mid-August. 

The existing stormwater infrastructure at US Hwy 180 remains in place and will not be removed until the Drainage Improvements Project is complete. Flood risk to the area was significantly reduced in 2023 by the installation of detention basins upstream and the addition of a new 48-inch storm pipe near Fire Station No. 5. The current project will continue flood mitigation efforts by increasing the capacity of the culvert to accommodate a 100-year storm. 

Read more →

Cultural, Education, Events, Family, Government, Health, Local, News, women, Youth

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Start learning about our Back to School events resource listing

by  • 

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

Yes, Summer has just begun but area school districts and health care providers are already planning for a variety of Back to School events.

Please check with individual school districts, health care providers and other organizations to confirm times, dates, other information.

The Coalition will continue to update this resource list. If you have a program you want us to include, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org. Thank you. (Updated June 25, 2024)​​​​​​​

Also, see our:

Register now for 2024 Summer Camps. See our listing
Summer Food, Summer Reading Programs in Coconino County listing

Read more →

Business, Finance, Government, Health, Local, News, Public Safety

City of Flagstaff announces Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) City of Flagstaff ARPA Local Recovery Funds Aid to Nonprofits Providing Victim Services

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is pleased to announce the availability of American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (“ARPA”) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to promote the recovery of nonprofit organizations in the City that were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City can use these funds to make strategic investments by providing valuable resources to community nonprofits to help ensure a strong and equitable recovery from the pandemic.

Read more →

Cultural, Education, Events, Health, Local, News, Youth

The NAU Review — ‘How an NAU ecologist is following in Darwin’s footsteps and a Lumberjack becomes an Olympian’ and more news

by  • 

Conservation ecologist Jut Wynne is spending a month aboard a tall ship that’s retracing much of Charles Darwin’s famous HMS Beagle voyage 200 years ago. While on board, Wynne will study insects unique to eastern Polynesia in hopes of confirming that some of these animals were brought there by ancient Polynesians via voyaging canoe. 

Read more →

Business, Education, Local, News

Unlock Your Artistic Potential with Summer Art Classes at the Sedona Arts Center

by  • 

Impressionistic Painting
with Gretchen Lopez
July 12 : Friday 10am – 4:30pm

I love the “Impressionists”!  They had an incredible way with color and light.  In this class, we will explore the color mixtures and brush work the Impressionists used, and work from the still life and the landscape!  Let’s plan to learn more about the light, and discuss Artists such as Monet, Sorolla and Renoir!

Read more →

Business, Family, Government, Local, News, Youth

Greater Flagstaff Forests Partnership (GFFP) Receives Grant to Develop Community Wildfire Protection Plan in Coconino County

by  • 

Coconino County recognizes wildfire and post-wildfire flooding as the top public safety threat. Since 2010, the County has endured nine major wildfires, burning over 255,000 acres. Correspondingly, the County has higher wildfire risk to homes than 84.5% of U.S. counties. This CWPP will define locally-specific approaches to wildland fire and watershed management across most of the County. In developing and implementing this CWPP, communities will take the lead in reducing wildfire risk across jurisdictional boundaries. 

Read more →

Business, Government, Local, News, Public Safety

Dredging work in the Rio de Flag to begin June 26

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — City of Flagstaff Stormwater crews will begin dredging work in the Rio de Flag channel between Aspen Ave and Birch Ave on Wednesday, June 26. The project is expected to be complete by Friday, June 28. This work will necessitate the closure of six to eight parking spots in the northwest corner of the Downtown Library parking lot.

Read more →

Education, Family, Local, News, Youth

United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) — Elevate PreK Seeking Students

by  • 

“UWNA knows that early childhood development lays the foundation for all future learning, behavior, and health,” said UWNA President & CEO Liz Archuleta. “The experience children have in their first five will have a profound impact on their ability to succeed in school, work, and life.

The preschool class, which has a maximum enrollment of 18 students, is housed at Evergreen Academy Preschool in Flagstaff.

Designed to provide equitable access to high-quality early education, Elevate PreK is open to 4-year-old children in households that have incomes between 101% and 250% of the federal poverty level.

Read more →

Elections, Government, Local, News

City of Flagstaff requests arguments for and against proposed election questions

by  • 

FLAGSTAFF — Prior to the Nov. 5 2024 election, each household with a registered voter will receive an informational pamphlet that includes arguments for and against proposed questions that have a local impact. Any person interested in submitting an argument is required to do so before 5 p.m., Arizona time on Aug. 7, 2024. The questions are as follows:

Read more →