Sedona News – Today marks a significant milestone in the relationship between
Canmore, Alberta, Canada, and Sedona, Arizona, USA, as the two cities have officially
signed a “Friendship Cities” agreement. The agreement, celebrated through a virtual
ceremony, solidifies a commitment to fostering mutual understanding and collaboration
between the two picturesque communities.
The historic event was attended by members and guests of the Sedona Sister City
Association and officials from Canmore, including Mayor Sean Krausert, who
expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership. The ceremony, held via Zoom,
brought together key stakeholders from both cities to witness the formalization of this
new chapter in their relationship.
During the ceremony, Mayor Krausert shared his observations on the numerous
similarities between Canmore and Sedona. Both cities are renowned for their stunning
natural landscapes, vibrant arts and culture scenes, and strong commitment to
sustainability and community wellness.
“I am continually impressed by the many parallels between Canmore and Sedona,”
Mayor Krausert remarked. “Our shared values and goals make this partnership a
natural fit, and I am confident that our collaboration will yield significant benefits for
both communities.”
Sedona Mayor Scott Jablow also shared his excitement about the agreement,
emphasizing the dedication and efforts of the Sedona Sister Cities Association.
“I look forward to building our growing relationship,” said Mayor Jablow. “This
significant step was made possible by our Sedona Sister Cities Association, which was
founded just two years ago to find a compatible sister city. They have done an
outstanding job without any government funding.”
The Canmore Town Council unanimously supported the “Friendship Cities” agreement,
recognizing the potential for enriching exchanges in various domains, including
tourism, cultural events, environmental initiatives, and economic development. Mayor
Krausert noted that the council’s backing is a testament to the alignment of vision and
aspirations between the two towns.
Looking ahead, Don Groves, Chair of the Sedona/Canmore Team outlined several
promising initiatives that will be pursued as part of the “Friendship Cities” agreement.
These initiatives aim to enhance the quality of life for residents, promote cultural
understanding, and support sustainable development. Potential areas of collaboration
include:
- Cultural Exchange Programs: Facilitating artist residencies, joint cultural
festivals, and educational exchanges to celebrate and share the unique artistic
heritage of both cities. - Environmental Stewardship: Partnering on projects that address climate change,
conservation, and renewable energy solutions, leveraging each city’s expertise
and resources. - Tourism Development: Creating joint marketing campaigns to boost tourism,
highlight the natural beauty and recreational opportunities in both locales, and
promote eco-friendly travel. - Economic Partnerships: Encouraging business exchanges and investments that
support local economies, with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and
sustainable practices.
The signing of the “Friendship Cities” agreement marks the beginning of a vibrant
partnership that promises to bring Canmore and Sedona closer together. Both
communities are excited about the opportunities this agreement presents and are
committed to working together to build a more connected and resilient future.
For more information about the “Friendship Cities” agreement and upcoming
collaborative projects, please contact:
Don Groves, Sedona Sister City Association
Email: donandjangroves@gmail.com
About Canmore:
Canmore is a vibrant mountain town located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Known for its breathtaking landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and
commitment to sustainability, Canmore is a community that values its natural
environment and cultural heritage.
About Sedona:
Sedona is a city in Arizona renowned for its stunning red rock formations, thriving arts
community, and spiritual heritage. It is a destination that attracts visitors from around
the world, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor
adventure.
