Sedona.biz
Sedona.biz is Sedona’s premier online publication, offering timely, insightful, and engaging coverage of local news, arts, culture, and community life. Under the passionate guidance of publisher Tommy Acosta, Sedona.biz has become a trusted voice and digital heartbeat of Red Rock Country for more than a decade. From in-depth features on local artists to critical issues affecting residents, Sedona.biz brings Sedona’s stories to life with authenticity and heart. With its finger on the pulse of the community and a commitment to uplifting voices and sparking dialogue, Sedona.biz is more than a news source—it’s a gathering place for all who love and live in Sedona.
Tommy Acosta: Publisher
Tommy Acosta is a journalist, editor, publisher and opinion writer for Sedona.Biz, a cyber magazine known as “The Voice of Sedona and The Verde Valley.” He writes articles on local issues, politics, national issues, culture, and personal reflections, often with a provocative or satirical tone. Acosta is a musician and reflexologist, in addition to his work as a writer.
He has written about the challenges faced by Sedona’s musicians, noting their low pay despite the town’s vibrant music scene. Acosta describes himself as a “political actualist,” rejecting strict affiliations with political parties and focusing on analyzing how people are manipulated by political processes. His articles often cover local Sedona issues, such as tourism, short-term rentals, cultural events, and community building.
He writes political commentary, including critiques of national figures and policies, often with a satirical or imaginative approach (e.g., “What Would Tommy Do?” where he imagines himself in the shoes of political figures like Donald Trump). Acosta has addressed controversial topics, such as immigration, crime, and political polarization, sometimes drawing criticism for his hyperbolic or polarizing views.
For example, his piece “Cauldron of Chaos” describes a world in turmoil, linking events like crimes by illegal immigrants to broader societal fears.
Acosta is deeply engaged in Sedona’s cultural and spiritual community, advocating for local musicians, artisans, and businesses. He has written about Sedona’s unique identity as a spiritual and artistic hub, encouraging residents to appreciate the town’s beauty and opportunities.
Joey Best, CMO
Joey Best is a pioneering media entrepreneur and publisher based in Sedona, Arizona, with a career spanning over four decades. She has been instrumental in shaping the region’s media and tourism landscape through her innovative storytelling, immersive video platforms, and commitment to community and culture.
In 1988, she launched the Sedona Video Magazine, one of the first in-room hotel video guides in the U.S., offering curated visitor experiences through dynamic multimedia. This groundbreaking concept evolved into the Best of Sedona TV Show and the Sedona Galleries & Artists video magazine—celebrating Sedona’s vibrant creative spirit.
In 1992, she created Sedona’s Best Visitor’s Guide, a premium print guide distributed throughout Arizona’s top resorts and hotels. Notably, it was among the first magazines in the country to be digitally designed on Apple’s platform—alongside Redbook—solidifying her reputation as a publishing innovator.
During this time, she also published the nationally distributed Sedonan Home & Garden magazine, which later evolved into Green Lifestyles on Plant Paradise—an early foray into eco-conscious living and sustainable design that positioned her ahead of national trends.
Joey’s impact extended to national television as well, producing a PBS series on renowned bronze artist Ken Payne and contributing to content for Discovery Channel, ESPN, A&E, and The Learning Channel (TLC). Her iconic video—The Beauty of Sedona continues to showcase the region’s breathtaking landscape and charm.
Her cultural influence also includes her role as an associate founding member of the Sedona International Film Festival, alongside Laurie Seymour. She produced emotional video tributes for Donald O’Connor and Ann Miller, which became defining moments in the inaugural festival’s identity and legacy.
In addition, Best—along with other friends of Oak Creek Owl jazz pianist Johnny Gilbert—helped spark the first unofficial jazz festival in the Village of Oak Creek in 1981. The following year, Gilbert secured support from local business leaders and the official Sedona Jazz Festival was launched named, The Day Sedona Turned Jazz adding another artistic layer to Sedona’s cultural legacy.
Today, as CEO of Best of Sedona Productions, Joey continues to lead in digital media. She and her husband Tommy Acosta also acquired Sedona.Biz, a widely read digital newsletter and community forum serving the greater Sedona area.
Her latest creation, The Sedonan, is Sedona’s first interactive, video digital magazine—a pioneering format that combines rich editorial storytelling with engaging, clickable video, revolutionizing how readers connect with the Sedona lifestyle. Joey Best’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and the arts has made her a visionary force in both local and national media, and a true ambassador of Sedona’s evolving story.
Allen Elfman: Editorial Contributor
Allen Elfman is an experienced journalist and dynamic content creator with over two decades of storytelling, broadcasting, and public engagement under his belt.
Known for his sharp wit, engaging interviews, and intuitive understanding of regional and global topics, Allen has built a reputation for turning everyday moments into compelling narratives.
As the founder and face of MY AZ TV, he brings local stories to life with a unique blend of professionalism and charisma. From political commentary to lifestyle features, his work spans a broad spectrum of content that resonates with diverse audiences.
Allen’s background in public relations and investigative work enhances his ability to ask the right questions and deliver insightful, impactful content.
His creative direction, sharp media instincts, and deep roots in the Sedona community make him a trusted voice in modern journalism and digital storytelling. Whether on camera or behind the scenes, Allen delivers authenticity, innovation, and integrity.
Amaya Gayle: Editorial Contributor
There is no appropriate bio for Amaya Gayle. She doesn’t exist other than as an expression of Consciousness Itself. Talking about her in biographical terms is a disservice to the truth and to anyone who might be led to believe in such nonsense. None of us exist, not in the way we think. Ideas spring into words. Words flow onto paper and yet no one writes them. They simply appear fully formed. Looking at her you would swear this is a lie. She’s there after all, but honestly, she’s not. Bios normally wax on about accomplishments and beliefs, happenings in time and space. She has never accomplished anything, has no beliefs and like you was never born and will never die. Engage with Amaya at your own risk.
Additional Editorial Contributors:
- Sean Dedalus
- Bear Howard
- Mike Schroeder
- City of Sedona