Author: Tommy Acosta

Tommy Acosta is the publisher, editor, and lead opinion writer of Sedona.biz, the hyperlocal cyber magazine known as "The Voice of Sedona and the Verde Valley." He writes on local issues, politics, national affairs, culture, and personal reflection, often with a provocative or satirical tone.In addition to his work as a writer, Acosta is a working musician and reflexologist. He has written extensively about the challenges Sedona's musicians face, noting their low pay despite the town's vibrant music scene.Acosta describes himself as a "political actualist," rejecting strict party affiliations and instead focusing on how people are manipulated by political processes. His coverage spans local Sedona issues, tourism, short-term rentals, cultural events, community building, as well as national commentary and critiques of political figures, sometimes through imaginative pieces like "What Would Tommy Do?"Acosta is deeply engaged in Sedona's cultural and spiritual community, advocating for local musicians, artisans, and businesses, and writing about Sedona's unique identity as a spiritual and artistic hub.

Prescott AZ (July 1, 2013) – The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office has provided this update from Yavapai County Community Health Services on the Yarnell Hill Fire: Website updates will be maintained at www.RegionalInfo-Alert.orgFacebook.com/YCOEM Yarnell Hill Fire Facts: For public information call 777-7481 Location: 3.5 miles west of Yarnell, AZ. Size: 8374 Acres Cause: Lightning Number of Resources: 400. Resources: 4 type 2 crews, 3 type 1 crews, 4 engines. On order: 3 type 1 crews, 7 helicopters, 2 air tankers, 4 SEATs, 16 engines, and 2 water tenders. General Announcements: Structures lost approx. 50 at this time. 250 residential homes threatened…

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Collaborative effort aimed at changing recreation behaviors Sedona AZ (July 1, 2013) – Those of us who enjoy summer afternoons along Oak Creek will soon meet a new group of advocates for clean water and healthy recreation practices. The Oak Creek Ambassador program will kick off on July 1, introducing a community outreach effort focused on building awareness of the impact of recreation activities on the quality of water and health of Oak Creek. The program is jointly sponsored by the Oak Creek Watershed Council and the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest under a grant provided…

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Pip says, “She’s a beautiful, mature and affectionate lady, and playful too. Willow just needs a family to shower with affection.” Sedona AZ (June 28, 2013) – Willow is a three year old, spayed female Australian Shepherd/Lab mix that loves to walk and play in the water. She is a very good girl and gets along with other male dogs, older children and adults. If you are interested in Willow and would like to meet her, please contact the Humane Society of Sedona at 928.282.4679 and they would be happy to introduce you!

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A July 4th weekend cultural extravaganza! Sedona AZ (June 28, 2013) – If you are looking for a cultural infusion of world-class Native American dance and music come to Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village over the July 4th holiday weekend and enjoy a Celebration of Native American Music and Dance. Internationally acclaimed guitarist, Gabriel Ayala (Native American Music Awards 2011 “Artist of the Year”) and Kevin Duncan, four-time world champion hoop dancer and current 2013 Native American Music Award “Artist of the Year,” and the Yellow Bird Indian Dancers will perform throughout Saturday, July 6th and Sunday, July 7th. And…

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LIVE at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre featuring Las Vegas sensation Brian Hoffman Sedona AZ (June 28, 2013) – “Remembering Red: A Tribute to Red Skelton” comes to Sedona when it is performed live, onstage by Brian Hoffman, who is currently playing to sold-out shows year-round in Las Vegas. This outrageous, live theatrical event will be presented by the Sedona International Film Festival at its Mary D. Fisher Theatre. There will be four performances July 11-14. Brian Hoffman’s “Remembering Red: A Tribute to Red Skelton” is a nostalgic, light-hearted trip down memory lane. His expert portrayal of Red Skelton will…

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Sedona AZ (June 28, 2013) – The Sedona ­ Verde Valley chapter of National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBOSVV) will hold their monthly meeting on Thursday, July 11th at 11:15am at Heartline Café in Sedona. Attendees will experience a unique and exciting Networking Extravaganza with the opportunity to network and mastermind. Women business owners who want a boost in business should definitely attend!

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Prescott AZ (June 27, 2013) – The Granite Creek Watershed has some trouble; its water future is uncertain and its surface waters are impaired. Increasing urbanization in our watershed presents a set of challenges different from those issues historically associated with our region. “One of the greatest challenges as we urbanize is our area’s nostalgic view of a rural, ‘wild west’ community with clear-flowing waterways, in spite of evidence to the contrary,” says Ann-Marie Benz, Outreach and Communications Director for Prescott Creeks.

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Sedona AZ (June 27, 2013) – The Red Rock Ranger District and Arizona Natural History Association invite the community and visitors alike to July’s first Friday program.   Al Cornell, a practitioner of prehistoric skills, will be giving a presentation on the fabrication and usage of cordage in the southwest during prehistoric times on July 5 at 11 a.m.  On July 6 and 7 the public can learn more about native snakes at the live snake display from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each of those days.  Arizona Game and Fish volunteers, Russell Dunn and Karen McClelland, will allow visitors…

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By Warren Woodward, Sedona Resident(June 27, 2013) As a result of my letter below, Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) Commissioner Gary Pierce’s office is now taking reports of APS’s abuse and intimidation of customers who call APS to “opt out” of “smart” metering. If APS has attempted to intimidate and discourage you by any means — especially by making it sound like you will have to pay huge “opt out” fees when none have in fact been approved by the ACC — then please call and report it to Pierce’s office at 602 542 3933. Utility abuse is a violation of…

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Sedona AZ (June 26, 2013) – Pop-Up! Sedona Gallery has announced that it will be moving into a larger space Center in order to accommodate its expansion and the addition of new artists.  The new location is just across the courtyard from the current location in Hillside Sedona Center. The gallery’s tradition of great food, fine-art, and lively conversation on First Friday will continue at its current location for the July reception on Friday, July 5, 2013 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.   Many of the participating artists will be on hand to help friends and the public bid a fond…

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Cottonwood AZ (June 26, 2013) – At approximately 10:30 PM on June 21, 2013, a 25-year female residing in the 2600 block of Village Drive, Cottonwood, answered the door and was confronted by a man about 5’03-5’04,” 130 lbs, wearing a black shirt, black pants, along with a hood and mask. He entered the home and immediately struck her over the head with a metal bat or pipe. He continued striking her until she was unconscious. The victim was on the phone at the time of the attack, and the person she was talking to heard screams and called 911.…

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Sedona AZ (June 26, 2013) – We, Council and staff, have heard directly and otherwise that there is confusion and concern among some in our community about the recent decision by City Council to eliminate some standing commissions and thereby reorganize how our citizens are directly involved with their government. Our motives and our commitment to citizen participation in our government process has been questioned because of our decision. I am writing to assure you, neighbors, and fellow Sedonans, that our intent is the exact opposite of what is being charged and deduced. We have made this bold decision, and…

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Cornville AZ (June 26, 2013) – The Cornville Farmers Market has been such a success in it’s first month that the hours will be expanded. Now opening from 4 PM until dusk continuing each Monday through September or until the veggies run out. Recently there were 26 vendors with an amazing array of products. So come check it out for yourself. The event is held at Windmill Park where vendors may begin to set up at 3:30 PM and must supply their own tables, chairs, shelter, cooler, ice, etc. and must set up, take down, and clean their own area.…

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Expect hot weather, possible summer dust storms Phoenix AZ (June 26, 2013) – If your Independence Day plans include a road trip within the state or to a destination elsewhere in the country, the Arizona Department of Transportation urges you to take some safety steps before heading out on the highway. Drivers should check their vehicles, or have a trained mechanic take a look ahead of a trip, especially during the hot summer months. Proper tire pressure can help reduce the chances of a potentially dangerous blow out. Checking engine belts and hoses for signs of wear and topping off…

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