Sedona Chamber Newsletter

Chamber News

Sedona Chamber Launches New Web Site!

The Chamber's newly designed web site, http://www.sedonachamber.com , hit the internet last week! The site features improved navigation, enhanced information on relocating to Sedona, employment, member businesses, event schedules and general information about our community. In fact, our newest feature on the calendar of events, allows members to conveniently post multi-day events in one single entry. All Chamber monthly events such as mixers, strategies for success workshops are now listed on the site as well as information on the Good Morning Sedona Networking Breakfasts.

The new Sedona Chamber site will now offer all members the opportunity to purchase banner advertising to enhance their business presence on this site. There are three different places to advertise your business on the Sedona Chamber web site: Premium Banner Ad - On home page * Category Banner Ad - On Category page *Directory Banner Ad – On Directory page (limited spaces available). Look for a special member mailing in the coming week that will outline advertising options in more detail.

Discount packages will be offered when advertising is purchased on multiple Chamber web sites. Call the Chamber office at 204-1123 for more details. To take advantage of the major visibility on these sites, it is imperative that Chamber members update their information, especially email and web site addresses. To update your membership information and email address or if you have any questions regarding the web site features, contact the Chamber office.

"Right Time, Right Place Marketing" is the Topic for

Strategies for Success-Brown Bag Luncheon This Wednesday

This presentation focuses on the basics of creating an effective marketing strategy.  This class will give you direction in crafting the right message to send your customers and help you identify how time and place will dictate which advertising mediums are likely to work best for your business. Presented by Rick Leibowitz, Director of the Small Business Development Center. Rick provides a wealth of information from his years of experience as an independent business owner and consultant. Rick worked for three years as a center Director for the Alaska Small Business Development Center in Ketchikan and the Mat-Su Borough. He has also worked for two years in the private sector as a Food and Beverage Executive with two publicly traded companies. Recognizing that Small Business Development training is his passion, he accepted a position at the Coconino Community College Small Business Development Center in July of 2005.

Join us for this informative luncheon on Wednesday, April 19th at the Sedona-Verde Valley Board of Realtors Meeting Room located at 55 Sinagua Drive in West Sedona from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m . To register for the program or for more information, contact the Chamber's Business Office at 204-1123. The cost is $15 for members; $20 for non-members (cost includes lunch). Prepayment is required. Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 18th.

Amara Creekside Resort to Host April Chamber Mixer

Join us on Thursday, April 27th from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. as the Amara welcomes Chamber members and their guests for an evening of networking, great food, music and fun. The event will be held at the Amara's Courtyard lawn, located beyond the swimming pool area.

Come to meet new members, network with Sedona professionals, sample delicious food and have the opportunity to win great raffle prizes. The entry cost for members and their accompanied guests is $8.00. Please make plans to join us!

If you would like to donate a prize for the mixer to increase awareness of your business, contact Terry Morales at the Chamber Business Office at 204-1123.

Don't Miss the Final “Good Morning Sedona” Networking

Breakfast Event of this Season!

This will be the last show of the season so be sure and get your ticket! This Good Morning Sedona networking breakfast event with a Cinco de Mayo "Tropical" theme is scheduled for Friday, May 5th, at Los Abrigados Resort from 7:30 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Doors will open at 7 a.m. Sombreros, tropical attire and flip flops are welcomed!!

This will be a jam-packed morning of valuable networking and business tips as well as outstanding entertainment and important community information. A complete buffet breakfast is included. Tickets are $20 before the day of the show and $25 at the door, if any tickets are available.

A nice bonus for attendees is the opportunity to distribute flyers, business cards or other marketing material for only $10. Flyers cannot be distributed for individuals who do not attend the breakfast. Please provide at least 100 pieces of flyers or marketing material. All material must be delivered to the Chamber administrative office at 45 Sunset Drive by Wednesday, May 3rd. For the comfort of our guests, a reduced number of seats will be available at each table, so be sure to purchase your ticket early as these shows sell out!

Tickets for Good Morning Sedona are available at the Sedona Chamber Business Office at 45 Sunset Drive. Tickets can be purchased in person or by phone at 928-204-1123. Season ticket holders must call in and reserve their seats. All new members who have event vouchers must reserve their space and trade the voucher in for an actual ticket at the Chamber office before the event.

If you are interested in donating a prize for Good Morning Sedona contact Rebekah Cecil at 634-3636 or Rita Livingston at 204-1927, this is a good opportunity to provide valuable exposure for your business!

Affinity Group News

Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association

Increase Your Referrals – come meet with other Association members so they can better refer business to you. The Sedona Metaphysical Spiritual Association monthly membership meeting which will be held on Tuesday, Apr. 18 at Sedona Springs Resort meeting room (above lobby), 55 Northview from 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm .

Art is Blooming at 1st Friday– Evening in the Galleries

The 1st Friday events offer art lovers and patrons a chance to visit many of Sedona's world-class galleries in one evening. SGA member galleries host special events and openings offering a wide variety of styles and mediums to enjoy. From emerging local artists to internationally known names, the collection of galleries hold an abundant and diverse world of art to explore. The Sedona Trolley brings the vibrant arts community together on 1st Fridays by offering free continuous loops every 15 – 20 minutes to all 16 of the participating galleries free of charge – from Uptown to Tlaquepaque to Hozho and more. Look for the Trolley Stop signs or ask in an SGA gallery for more information. All of the events are also free of charge.

SGA Galleries are: Andrea Smith Gallery , Arizona Art, Arte-Misia, The Cottage Gallery, Eclectic Image Gallery, El Prado Gallery, Erickson Studio Gallery, Exposures International Gallery of Fine Art , Goldenstein Gallery, The Lanning Gallery , James Ratliff Gallery , Kuivato Glass Gallery , Mountain Trails Gallery, Sedona Arts Center , Shaffer the Gallery, and Turquoise Tortoise Gallery

Stop by any of the participating galleries to pick up an SGA brochure containing a map and specific information about each gallery. For additional information on the SGA or the 1 st Friday events, please call 928-282-3809.

Business Brief

Red Rock Remodel Update
Tiffany Construction has stopped general construction for Spring Break through Sunday, April 30, except for some minor excavation activities, known as potholing, on SR 89A. The work will be confined to the following general areas:

• The pavement at the east edge of the northbound lane of 89A in front of Pink Jeep Tours.
• The parking spaces & edge of sidewalk in the vicinity of the north side of Looking West.
• The parking spaces in vicinity of the Trading Post.
• The parking spaces in front of Cheers & Sedona Fudge Company.

In order to ensure that they have access to the pothole locations, Tiffany plans to rope off the necessary parking spaces at all of the pothole locations early Tuesday morning before motorists begin parking in them. As soon as potholing work is completed in an area Tiffany will remove the barricades, reopen the parking space(s) and move on to the next location. Tiffany believes that they may be able to complete the work on Tuesday.

Potholing is used to determine the location of underground utilities. Potholing involves limited excavation to expose utilities lines and determine their exact location. There may be short periods when parking and access will be disrupted.

City staff and representatives from Tiffany Construction, the City’s contractor, will hold the next update meeting for anyone interested in the project on Friday, April 28 at 8:00 a.m. at the Wayside Chapel. Possible topics for discussion at this meeting include, incremental project landscaping and design input for a roundabout at the north end of Uptown. Uptown Project Hotline (928) 203-5050.

Teen Center Will Be Closed For Two Weeks During Interior Renovations

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Northern Arizona is embarking on some interior changes inside the Sedona Teen Center. The facility will be closed for two weeks, from April 10 to April 24 during renovations then follow with an open house celebration, April 29, to reveal its new look! Results from an internal survey at the Teen Center indicate that the teenagers who use the facility would like new colors for the walls, a cyber café, a new computer lab, and a private area for listening to music and watching videos. Ask and you shall receive! The Teen Center is now in the beginning stages of a grand transformation.

New equipment has been purchased for a cybercafé newly named the “Angry Dog” inspired by a painting there. The organization will be repainting all of the walls – with the colors requested by the teens – and is asking for volunteers to help out. Hundreds of ideas were submitted for the changes, and hopefully the energy of the Teen Center will keep moving forward with the support of Sedona residents.

The Boys and Girls Club will host an open house to celebrate these renovations on Friday, April 29. At the event, free hot dogs and sodas will be served - while they last. All are welcome to come for the unveiling of the Sedona Teen Center’s new make-over. Support your community by lending a helping hand. Volunteer your time by calling 282-0122. 

Detour on Boynton Pass Road

To those who use Boynton Pass Road (the dirt section), FR152C, starting Monday, April 17, through May 1, there will be a detour between Doe/Bear Mtn Trailhead and Marshall Tank while the construction project works on filling the large cuts near Marshall Tank. Detour will use the new Aerie access road and old Tree Farm access road to take you through that area. It may take a little longer for the trips and you should remind your drivers or users to go slow in this area because of the construction activities.

Also, the USFS expects that there will be some full closures of the road in mid-June in the middle of the week while box culverts are constructed and driving the roadway corridor will be unsafe. They are working closely with the contractor to keep road closures to the minimum during this project. However if safety issues and concerns arise, more road closures may be necessary as this project moves forward. The USFS will make every effort to keep you informed in advance of potential closures and specific dates of these closures.

Member News

Come Join the Celebration at the 5th Annual Red Rocks Music

Festival

Symphony Festival Sampler on Thursday, August 31 , 2006 at 7:00 p.m. Church of the Beatitudes 555 West Glendale Ave. FREE Admission. The Passion of the Tango on Saturday, September 2 , 2006, 7:30 p.m. Chamber Music Concert. Works by Piazzolla and Mendelssohn at the Jewish Community of Sedona & Verde Valley located at 100 East Meadowlark (off Hwy 179) Tickets: Adult $24, Child (12 and under) $12. Festival String Ensemble Sunday, September 3 , 2006, 3:00 p.m. Works by Mozart, Schubert and Grieg, Shmuel Ashkenasi (violin solo) at the Jewish Community of Sedona & Verde Valley. Tickets: Adult $28, Child (12 and under) $14. Dancers:Daniela Borgialli and Rommel Oramas. Discount package available for Saturday and Sunday performance $45.00 Adult, $20 Child. For tickets and information: 1 (877) REDRCKS (733-7257). Email at redrocksmusic@cox.net or visit www.redrocksmusicfestival.com for more information.

Introducing the New Gallery of Tlaquepaque, " SHAFFER THE

GALLERY"

Artist S.J.SHAFFER previously with Lanning Gallery for seven years has opened up her own Gallery in Tlaquepaque. Joining her Original Illustrative paintings is the Award winning Sculptor, Mike Medow. Located in the wonderful bell tower court yard. Hours 10:00 a.m-5:00 p.m.  Open 7 days a week. We look forward to seeing you. Please enjoy our new commercial on: www.redrocktv.com . For more information contact Nancy Powell ( Owner/ Directer) or S.J.Shaffer  (Owner/ Artist) at 928-282-0588.

Chamber Music Sedona Presents 1st Dinner Concert

You are cordially invited to join us for our first Dinner Concert at the Bistro Bella Terra Wednesday, May 3rd from 5-8pm. $65 per person and reservations are required by May 1st . Chef John Paul Etlinger has prepared wonderful dinner selections to enjoy (two glasses of wine or beer are served with dinner). 5-5:30 pm No Host Bar. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm. MENU - Bistro Bella Terra Salad (Mixed Greens with Pear Garnish) AND Beef Tornados Princessa/Cedar Rivers Natural Beef served with Gulf Shrimp, Artichoke Hearts and Béarnaise Sauce OR Cedar Plank Wild Alaskan Salmon served with Mango Beurblanc Sauce garnished with Papaya Relish OR Vegetarian Pasta (Grilled Vegetable Rigatoni with Pesto Cream Sauce ) AND Tiramisu Bella Terra accompanied by Coffee or Tea.

Please make your reservations now by calling the office 928.204.2415 as seating is limited.

"Cowboy Keepers" Unveiling at Sedona Historical Society

The unveiling of Cowboy Keepers on Saturday, May 13th from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. is creating anticipation all over the country. All of the Cowboys and Cowgirls portrayed in the painting are expected to be on hand to talk about their involvement in the work. Arizona ranch woman, Dorothy Kilbourne Woods, has been enlisted to do the unveiling. The afternoon with include a brief ceremony, tables with artisans displaying their saddles and spurs, and Western music for the open house. Ariat, Pepsi, In the Saddle with Chris, Brad Mead, Basha's, and the Sedona Historical Society have contributed to this event. 

We are very excited to have in our line up for entertainment, Skip Gorman http://www.skipgorman.com who has been on Garrison Keillor's "A Prairie Home Companion", Ken Burns has used his music in his documentaries on Lewis and Clark and the US Embassy is flying Skip to Santiago Chile in three months to perform at their July 4th celebration. We are in need of a sponsor to help us cover the cost of Skip's transportation and lodging for the Sedona event and other basic entertainment costs as well as a venue from which Skip might be able to give a concert the night before the unveiling (Friday, May 12th) in order to help advertise the Sat. event and help raise funds by charging a reasonable admission fee and selling CD's at the concert.

Please take the time to visit the site of the "National Day of the Cowboy" and be an active participant. Fantastic promotion opportunities are available for this and other National events and would like to encourage you and your organization be an active supporter of the "National Day of the Cowboy". Visit ttp://nationaldayofthecowboy.com/ for more information.

Tony Abeyta Featured at Turquoise Tortoise Gallery's Spring

Show

Peggy Lanning, owner of the Turquoise Tortoise Gallery, still remembers the first time internationally renowned artist Tony Abeyta walked into her gallery over twenty years ago. “He was seventeen years old and he laid all his work out right on the floor for me to take a look at. I've been representing him ever since.” In 2000, Abeyta was given a retrospective at the prestigious Southwest Museum in Los Angeles . In Sedona, the Turquoise Tortoise Gallery will be featuring Abeyta's work for its 2006 Spring Show the weekend of April 22-23. Rick West, Director of the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian, wrote of Abeyta's work: “His art is never static or complacent and is, instead, fearless, always changing, always moving, constantly pushing to new places of artistic creativity and resolution.” A sneak preview reception will be held at the Turquoise Tortoise Gallery on Friday evening, April 21 st , from 5-7 pm . An Artist's Reception for Tony Abeyta will be held on Saturday evening, April 22nd, from 5-8 pm . The 2006 Spring Show continues all weekend. Turquoise Tortoise Gallery, Hozho Center , 431 Hwy 179, Sedona AZ 86336 . For further information: 928/282-2262 or www.turqtortsedona.com.

Tourism News

Sedona Tourism Bureau Targets Travel Trade Industry

The Sedona Chamber of Commerce Tourism Bureau will attend the Travel Industry Association of America’s 38th annual International Pow Wow, May 8-11, 2006 in Orlando, FL and the Las Vegas Sales Mission to meet and educate Japanese travel professionals in Las Vegas, NV on April 22, 2006.           

TIA's International Pow Wow is the travel industry's premier international marketplace and is the largest generator of USA travel. In just three days of intensive pre-scheduled, computer-generated business appointments, more than 1,000 U. S. travel organizations from every region of the USA, representing all industry category components, and more than 1,500 international delegates and domestic buyers from more than 65 countries conduct business negotiations that result in the generation of close to $3 billion in future visit USA travel.

At the show, Sedona Chamber of Commerce staff and members of the business community meet one-on-one with travel buyers.  “The goal of marketing to the travel trade industry,” says Char Beltran, President/CEO of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, “is to generate overnight business through the travel distribution system which leads to increased hotel occupancy tax collections.  It also tends to target visitation in the times that Sedona needs it most – the summer and winter.”

Another element of marketing to the travel trade industry is through sales missions directly to travel agents, tour operators and receptive operators.  This year, the Sedona Chamber of Commerce will participate with the Arizona Office of Tourism in a Las Vegas Sales Mission targeted at Japanese operators.   Las Vegas continues to be a popular destination for the Japanese markets and plays a key role for our region.  We have to take advantage of Las Vegas' popularity to further enhance Sedona's presence in the Japanese market.  For the past ten years, the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) has been taking a regional marketing approach to the Japanese market using the "Beyond Las Vegas" concept to promote grand nature, soft adventure attractions and Native American culture experiences.  This year will be the AOT's 7th promotional mission to Las Vegas focusing on the Japanese travel companies.  AOT along with the states of Utah and New Mexico will conduct the regional destination development seminar and workshop, which will be followed by a golf outing for the Las Vegas based Japanese tour companies on April 22nd, 2006.

The Sedona Chamber of Commerce Tourism Bureau is offering a Brochure Distribution Program at TIA’s Pow Wow and at the Las Vegas Sales Mission to Tourism Bureau members.  The deadline to participate is April 12.
The cost will be:

• $250 to distribute brochures to tour operators at both events. 
• $200 to distribute brochures at TIA’s Pow Wow only.
• $75 to distribute brochures at Las Vegas Sales Mission only

For more information, please call 928-204-1123.

National Tourism Week - Be Sure to Vote for your Favorite Photo

In recognition of travel and tourism’s tremendous economic, social and cultural impact, the Sedona Chamber of Commerce announced that it plans to observe National Tourism Week the week of May 13-21, 2006. This year marks the 23rd annual celebration of National Tourism Week, which is sponsored nationally by the Travel Industry Association of America (TIA). To help us celebrate the importance of tourism to our economy, we would like to invite you to vote on your local favorite places on www.VisitSedona.com.  Visitors to the website will be able to vote on their favorite places and the winner will receive great Sedona prizes.  The promotion was launched last year during National Tourism week. The winner will be announced during next year’s National Tourism Week celebration. Click here to vote!

Calling all 2006 Summer Events and 2007 Major Events!

The Arizona Office of Tourism will again publish a summer calendar of events to encourage Arizonans to visit attractions in their home state. The calendar will include events that take place between Memorial Day and Labor Day across the state. The calendars will be available from the AOT office and will be sent to the chambers of commerce and visitor centers around the state for distribution. Please make sure that all summer event information submitted is accurate and updated. If you find your information on www.ArizonaGuide.com, you will not need to resend the information. Please note that due to the number of events that take place each summer, we will not be able to include every event within the printed summer calendar. However, all events submitted will be included in the online calendar at www.ArizonaGuide.com.

In addition, AOT receives requests each April for the entire 2007 calendar of major annual events. These requests usually require the date, name of event and contact information. For those who have the date, but maybe not all the description details, please forward all 2007 information available. Information for 2007 events must be submitted by May 1, 2006. Calendar of event information may be e-mailed to Marjorie Magnusson, mmagnusson@azot.gov or faxed to 602-364-3702. For a submission form, please contact Marjorie.

Advertising Co-ops Available

WHERE Phoenix / Scottsdale Magazine & Sedona Coop, May – September 2006

May 2006 – September 2006, WHERE Magazine has partnered with the Sedona Chamber of Commerce to promote the local resorts, retailers, art galleries, tour companies and restaurants in Sedona. Each month, there will be a tag line on the front cover of WHERE Magazine promoting Sedona as ‘Road Trip’ destination.  In June, July and August there will be a feature story on ‘Road Trips’, featuring Sedona as one of the premiere destinations.

Distribution:
35,000 Monthly, ABC Audited, Bonus Distribution 10,000 direct mailed to local residents in the Valley in June

Added Value: Minimum of a 30% advertising discount off the published rate, July & August ads run at NO CHARGE, Guaranteed editorial listing, Email and direct mail opportunities to target the Concierges in The Valley of the Sun

For more information, please contact Michelle Schneider, Publisher, WHERE Phoenix / Scottsdale Magazine 
michelle@wherephoenix.com, 480.481.9981 office

Travelhost of Northern Arizona magazine premiered in February of 2006 and was a great success.  The magazine premiered in over 80 hotels in 4,600 hotel rooms in Northern Arizona. We are now offering ad space for our May/June/July issue and we urge you to take advantage of this unique advertising opportunity – Chamber members will be offered 25% off the rate card.  Deadline for advertising in the next issue is April 14th . 

What are you doing to capture your share of those visitor dollars? How are you going to steer those visitors to your business? Your ad in TRAVELHOST magazine has impact with travelers because it is in the hands of customers at the time they make their buying decisions. TRAVELHOST offers advertisers UNIQUE ACCESS to Travelers in a controlled circulation environment when they look for information on the best places where to eat, shop, play and relocation.  

Partner with TRAVELHOST in Central & Northern Arizona as it celebrates 38 years as the industry leader in serving the traveler. TRAVELHOST is distributed in over 1 million hotel rooms and boasts a readership of over 10 million travelers every month in over 400 cities across the country. And now TRAVELHOST will deliver the same quality publication to your prime visitor market in northern Arizona .  Call us immediately to place your ad in TRAVELHOST, the in-room advertising choice of more than 16,000 national and local advertisers and get your message in front of over 45,000 visitors per month . For more information contact Dwayne LeSassier, Associate Publisher at (928) 830-7164 or at Dwayne@travelhostaz.com .

Smithsonian’s Sojourn in Sedona returns September 24-29, 2006

Sedona-based Conference Travel is pleased to once again offer an in-depth Sedona study tour in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution. Conference Travel custom designs this program with Smithsonian planners to provide a unique and comprehensive experience of Sedona’s many superb natural and cultural resources, including the best of the Prescott and Grand Canyon areas. As with all programs, personable experts lead the trip. The 2006 version is called Sedona: The Story Behind the Scenery and includes new updates from the several highly successful Sojourns conducted jointly with the Smithsonian in the 1990s. Included are guided nature and history walks in some of the region’s most beautiful and historically significant locations. Another key component is the opportunity to savor some of the region’s finest local dining experiences. Story Behind the Scenery is now accepting registrations. Contact Conference Travel at destinations@conference-travel.com for more details on this outstanding travel opportunity, or visit the Smithsonian web site at www.smithsonianjourneys.org/UnitedStates/092406sedona.asp

Amara Creekside Resort Upgrades, and Local Non-Profits Reap

the Benefits -- $55,100 Dollars Worth!

As Amara Creekside Resort in Uptown prepares for its million dollar make-over, management and staff remember their commitment to the community by giving back in a big way. Though Amara is only two years old, it will invest $1 million in renovations this year alone, which includes the conversion of all 100 rooms and suites to the exclusive 300-thread-count Mascioni Italian bedding line, installing flat-panel televisions in all rooms, upgrading all common areas with new designer carpet, and -- contingent upon City approval -- the addition of a 3,800-square foot spa on property. These new upgrades exemplify Amara’s goal of bringing “New York Chic” to Sedona’s southwestern charm.

When Amara management chose to upgrade the resort’s bedding to the ultra-chic Mascioni Italian bedding line, they had to decide what to do with their already high-quality linen. “The linens being replaced were simply too nice to just throw in the garbage,” said Kevin Johnson, Managing Director of Amara. “We knew they had to be put to good use.”

Amara first gave the high-end bedding to any of its 200-plus employees who needed it. They then donated the remaining 260 thread count linens to local non-profits in the Verde Valley community, including Verde Valley Sanctuary, the Betty Turner Youth Foundation, Old Town Mission, and Cottonwood’s Mingus House. A total of 903 sheets, 1021 pillow cases, 352 pillow shams, and 130 comforters were donated - totaling a $55,100 dollar contribution.

This generous donation from Amara is one of many acts made by the resort to help Sedona’s community. Amara, and its parent company Sedona Center, organizes an annual food/clothing/toy drive every year for local charities, hosts art sales and theatre productions for local non-profit organizations such as Canyon Moon Theatre and The Northern Arizona Watercolor Society, regularly offers sizable donations to local non-profit organizations, and was presented with the 2005 “Sedona Business Benefactor Award” from the Greater Sedona Community Foundation, honoring businesses who display noteworthy charitable contributions to the Sedona community.

Call for Summer Events
The Sedona Tourism Bureau would like your assistance in promoting Summer Events. Please be sure all event information for events between April- August 2006 are submitted to the www.VisitSedona.com calendar. Event information should include: name of event, venue, description, phone number and/or web site. If you have any questions or would like a form to fill out, please contact Sachiko Sado at sado@sedonachamber.com.

Industry News...

US oversea travel on the rise

US travel overseas dipped after 9-11, but the visitors are coming back with 4.1 million Americans going to foreign lands last summer, according to the US Department of Commerce. After 9-11, US travels overseas fell by more than a third, from 3.4 million in August of 2001 to only 2 million in October of that same year. Leisure travel volume is forecast to increase by 2% this year, while international travel to the US is expected to rise 5.5, says the Travel Industry Association (TIA). "We're starting to see more signs of a more cautious consumer when it comes to travel," said Suzanne Cook, senior vice president of research for the TIA. "I don't expect Americans to stop traveling. I simply think they will be more careful when it comes to making travel decisions," she added. Two factors impacting US travelers: lower consumer confidence and rising fuel prices. While the overall increase in travel expenditures by Americans is expected to slow, business travel should remain strong. Air and hotel prices should be on the rise, according to the American Express 2006 Global Business Travel Forecast. Report by David Wilkening

Vacation Drives Won't Come Cheap this Summer

In its summer gasoline price outlook released Tuesday, the Energy Department said the average price motorists will pay nationwide this driving season will be $2.62 a gallon for regular grade, 25 cents higher than last summer for the April-September period. Pump prices are high and expected to go higher. Guy Caruso, head of the Energy Department's statistical agency, said prices at the pump, which averaged $2.68 a gallon last week nationwide, are likely to increase 10 to 15 cents a gallon in the coming weeks, peak in May and drop off in late summer. If a hurricane or a refinery outage causes supply problems, or if crude oil takes a major jump, prices will be higher yet. But Caruso said motorists are not expected to cut back on their summer driving -- a view mirrored by AAA, formerly the American Automobile Association, which also predicts a busy summer travel season. In fact, Americans are expected to use 1.5 percent more gasoline than last summer. Said Geoff Sundstrom, a spokesman for AAA, "Although the price of gasoline is very high, the fact is the economy still seems to be growing. We're adding jobs, so we would expect we would see a relatively strong summer travel season." Gas prices last week were 40 percent higher than the same week a year ago and are likely rise further as higher crude oil and wholesale gasoline costs move through the system, said Caruso.(CNN, www.cnn.com/2006/US/04/11/summer.gasoline.ap/index.html)

TIA and American Express Unite to Promote U.S. Travel

TIA and American Express just announced a three-year partnership to promote international inbound travel, as well as travel within the United States. A top priority for the alliance is the development of marketing programs for both consumers and industry partners. They will also team up to create leadership and research initiatives to help U.S. companies grow and remain competitive in global travel. American Express will take an expanded role as a strategic partner in key TIA events such as TravelCom and the Travel Industry Summit. For more information, click here. (TIA e-Newsline, 4/13)

Film Office

"Smart Shopper" Segment to be Shot in Sedona

ABC 15 News will be in Sedona on Monday, May 1st, to tape a segment for “Smart Shopper”. They are seeking discounts and giveaways in Sedona for their audience to win to bring visitors from the Phoenix area to Sedona. For example: the first 25/100 callers win a free ice cream at a local shop, a/several free or discounted hotel stay(s), meal(s), tour(s), reading(s), gift items etc. go to however many callers are required for the prize. Looking primarily for multiple items. Locations selected will be on the segment. If you are interested, please email judy@sedonafilmoffice.com . Thanks for your consideration and support.

Sedona Film Office exhibits at Locations Expo Tradeshow

The Sedona Film Office exhibited at the Locations Expo in Santa Monica in early April. Sedona was represented at the Arizona Film Office booth along with several other regional film offices. This tradeshow sponsored by the Association of Film Commissioners International is the largest of its kind. Over 260 film commission and location services from around the world exhibited at the event. Hundreds of location managers and scouts, producers, production designers, directors and production companies attended the tradeshow in search of locations for their current or future projects.

Busy Production Schedule in Sedona

Recent productions in Sedona included Good Morning Arizona , two Canadian television programs Legend Hunters and Seekers , the return of The Weather Channel's Road Crew , TLC's Trading Spaces , a Chico's catalog, a Town & Country magazine shoot featuring Mii Amo Spa and Sedona, the Fox series 30 Days with Morgan Spurlock ( Super Size Me ),  a Honda commercial, an upcoming CBS series Tuesday Night Book Club , an film trailer for a future independent feature to be filmed in Sedona, and a Ford Expedition print ad.

Upcoming productions include a Best Western commercial, HGTV's Landscaper's Challenge , another Ford Co. still photography shoot, an independent feature co-produced with the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking, and Good Morning Arizona will broadcast their entire morning show live from Sedona in early May. TV Asahi's It's Morning!  It's a fresh Travel Salad , one of the most popular travel TV programs in Japan will also be taping in Sedona in early May.

The Sedona Film Office continues to work with ongoing requests for upcoming independent and major feature, television, commercial and still photography projects.

Your Property Could Be a Star!

Have you ever thought that your property would be the perfect setting for a movie, TV show or commercial? The Sedona Film Office invites property owners to list their properties with us for consideration as locations for film, TV, video and still photography productions. The Sedona Film Office is building a library of properties – residential, commercial, educational, historic, recreational, cultural, spiritual, industrial and agricultural – that are available for use as location sites. If you are interested in listing your property, please visit the Locations page of our web site, www.sedonafilmoffice.com . For more information, email Judy Schultz at the Sedona Film Office at judy@sedonafilmoffice.com or call (928)204-1123. The Sedona Film Office is a division of the Sedona Chamber of Commerce.

Submit Your FREE LISTING for the Sedona Film Office Production Guide!

The Sedona Film Office is currently accepting applications for listings in the Sedona Film Office Production Guide. Please go to the home page of our website, www.sedonafilmoffice.com , to fill out an online production guide listing form to submit your FREE LISTING. Note: Crew members must have prior film, video, or print experience to be listed in the production guide. Also, the production guide will be replacing the Sedona business directory that is currently on our website. Please be sure to fill out an application even if you are listed in the Sedona business directory of www. sedona filmoffice.com at this time. For more information, please call Judy Schultz at (928)204-1123 or email info@ sedona filmoffice.com.

Visitor Center News

Seeking Bids from Member Restaurants or Hotels for our October

Breakfast Event

We hold quarterly breakfasts to update our volunteers on chamber and community news, and are seeking member restaurants or hotels that can accommodate 40-50 people as well as two speakers. This is also a great opportunity for the volunteers to become better acquainted with your menu(s) and services. We are currently seeking bids from member restaurants or hotels that can accommodate 40-50 people.

Have Interesting or Unusual Facts About your Business? Share

them with us!

If you have some interesting or unusual facts to share about your business, (for example historic, or a special service you offer) please contact the Visitor Center staff at 282-7722! It will be included in the monthly volunteer newsletter. The more we know about you, the better we can serve you!

Lodging Availability during peak times

Attention: Lodging members, please remember to call the Uptown Visitor Center  to update us on your availability. We get quite a few last minute requests for accommodations. Thank you! 

Upcoming Events

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Submit your Event on the Chamber On-line Calendar

Please Note: The event submission request form for the new web site's calendar of events has changed. Please use the link above to submit your events.

"Sedona is Water Wise" Events

April 19 - City of Sedona Water Event 3:30-6 PM at City Hall Plaza – Come talk to the City about your water resources – food, fun activities, information, games, prizes – FREE

April 20 - Thursday Night at the Water Movies – 6:30-9:00 at the Sedona Public Library Dune – sponsored by Sedona Women – come for fun and talk with friends about water and life.  FREE

April 22 - Earth Day Face Lift & BBQ – Sunset Park – 9:00-1PM – Come help clean up the park and enjoy a fun picnic. Earth Day 3-6PM at the Hart Garden – poetry by Adele Seronde and Gardens for Humanity, music & displays – hosted by Jonathan Duncan, Institute of EcoTourism – come for fun and visit with the Sierra Club, Sustainable Arizona, Sedona Women and other community groups. FREE

Meet Me at Reds for a Wine Maker Dinner

Reds restaurant at the Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa is excited to kick off their Wine Maker Dinner Series with the exceptional wines from Cambria Vineyards. Executive Kyle Evans will host the inaugural five-course dinner on Thursday, April 20 . Beginning with a welcome reception at 6 p.m., featuring Thai coconut glazed shrimp, crab cakes with grapefruit relish and hand stretched mozzarella roulade, the evening continues with courses featuring seared grouper with Tahitian vanilla bean risotto, cedar plank roasted quail and pancetta wrapped venison medallions. Dessert is a goat cheese beignet with caramelized honey ice cream. Carefully selected wines will accompany each course illuminating the marriage of fine wine and fine food.

Chef Kyle received his initial training at the New England Culinary Institute and has pursued his culinary career in both Europe and the United States . He apprenticed with Master Chef Jean-Michel Bouvier in Chambery France and worked in the kitchens of Domaine Chandon and The Napa Valley Grill in Yountville , California . Prior to arriving at the Sedona Rouge he was Chef de Cuisine at the Lantana Grille, Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort in Phoenix . The wine maker dinner is $85 per person, not including tax and gratuity.

For reservations, call 203-4599. Reservations are required and space is limited. Reds restaurant is located in the Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa at 2250 W. Hwy. 89A. Visit, www.sedonarouge.com .

Flamenco Music and Dance with Yumi “La Rosa” at  Casa Rincon

Casa Rincon proudly presents a dinner show featuring Flamenco Music and Dance with Yumi “La Rosa” performing with Gaetano live on stage Thursday, April 20th, 2006 at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $38.00 per person for dinner and the show, and $15.00 per person for the show only. The Flamenco ensemble includes Yumi “La Rosa” lead dancer and her guests. The band features flamenco guitarist Gaetano Frankle and Eric Zang on the cajon.

Casa Rincon built the stage in Tapas Cantina especially for flamenco dance and music. “Excellent Flamenco returns to Casa Rincon”, said Demetri Wagner, owner. “The last shows ended in a standing ovation, I am delighted to return to the roots of my joy! Flamenco Music and dance is back at Casa Rincon.” Talented lead dancer Yumi “La Rosa” has studied with the great flamenco dancers of the Southwest and Spain. Yumi is accompanied by flamenco guitarist Gaetano Frankle of Mosaico. Gaetano is also an accomplished singer and they both currently perform weekly at the Hyatt Regency in Scottsdale. Mosaico is the most successful original flamenco music and dance ensemble.  Eric Zang is a show in himself playing the traditional cajon. The cajon is the percussion or drum instrument that adds the beat to flamenco. 

Reservations are necessary and may be made at Casa Rincon by calling or in person. For ticket and dinner menu information please call 928-282-4849.

PSYR Center for Wellbeing offers local Meditation Circle

Join John Whitehurst celebrated Teacher, Healer and Intuitive on Friday, April 21, 2006 from 6:00 – 7:30 PM for an evening of meditation at Sedona's center for Wellbeing in West Sedona at 40 Soldiers Pass Rd Ste 17 in the Las Pasada shopping center. Develop new meditation tools for personal enrichment and growth:

• Reconnect with your higher self
• Release the drama from your life
• Let go of stress and tension
• Get grounded & centered
• Reclaim and re-integrate lost life experience
• Live in the moment

Be prepared to have fun let go of your baggage! All are Welcome! By donation. For more information call 928-204-1019.

Lanning Gallery Presents 2006 Spring Show

 The Lanning Gallery, celebrating its twentieth anniversary later this year, presents its 2006 Spring Show, “Elements of Color” on April 21-22. Featured will be the rich tones of acrylic painter, Ed Klink; a custom-designed selection of handmade furniture by the American artisan group, Sticks, each piece hand-painted with remarkable energy and detail; and, the hand-blown studio glass of artist Randi Solin. Weighted organic forms and sharp polished edges are the signature of Solin's unique work. Representing a fusion of the American studio art glass movement and classic Venetian glassblowing, Solin works from a two-dimensional approach building layer upon layer of color using glass in all particle sizes; her glass sculptures are designed to show off this layering process, like rings of a tree. Each piece requires a viewer to interact with its interior life, to feel its incredible weight and mass, and engage in its optics and coloration. A sneak preview will be held Friday, 4/21, from 5 to7 p.m. with a reception for the artists on Saturday, 4/22 from 5 to 8 p.m. Lanning Gallery, Hozho Center , 431 Hwy. 179, Sedona , AZ. For information call: 928/282-6865 or visit: www.lanninggallery.com.

Reconnect With The Planet This Earth Day Weekend at Sedona Center’s 1st Annual Native American Festival

Sinagua Plaza at Sedona Center proudly presents its first annual Native American Festival and Earth Day Celebration, featuring live music performances by award-winning artists Micki Free and Tony Redhouse, and demonstrations of Native American art by Ted Draper from Canyon DeChelly. Bring the family to Sinagua Plaza at Sedona Center on Saturday, April 22 (Earth Day) & Sunday, April 23. This celebration of Native American history, music and dance is one you won’t want to miss!

On Saturday, April 22, Micki Free, of Cherokee-Comanche tradition, will perform in full regalia, twice, with one concert at 1 p.m. and another at 3 p.m.  Micki Free - Grammy Award Winner,  Multi-Platinum Recording Artist and three time Native American Music Award Winner -  will perform songs from his acclaimed Native American flute CDs - The Sun Chaser, Native American Flute Love Songs, and his most recent, Sedona Free.

On Sunday, April 23, nationally renowned performer and Grammy nominee, Tony Redhouse, a Navajo Diné, will perform hoop dances and eagle dances, play Native American flute songs from his CD, Soul Blessings, and lead interactive music and dance experiences with the audience at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The weekend-long festival will also include demonstrations of Native American art from Ted Draper, a Navajo Diné. Draper will demonstrate tufa stone casting techniques for jewelry on Saturday, and demonstrate the Draper pastel technique on Sunday. This Earth Day celebration was created to honor Native American culture, preserve ancient traditions, and provide education with respect to Native American arts. This event was also designed with families in mind. Even adults will enjoy kid-friendly activities like face painting and making friendship bracelets.

Sinagua Plaza at Sedona Center is located just past the midtown stop light in Uptown Sedona. This venue features shaded seating for children and families. After visiting Sinagua Plaza, walk over to Sedona Center Park to check out “Canyon Climb,” the Center’s new 25-foot public rock climbing wall. Sedona Center’s events are free, and there is plenty of public parking behind Sinagua Plaza. For more information, please call 282-4527.

Sedona Creative Life Center Events

APR 23: “ADVANCED MUSCLE TESTING” Jeffrey Mitchell, DHM, kinesiology practitioner, returns to help you improve your muscle testing skills. Make decisions based on discovering the truth and take charge of your life. Registration limited to 20 students; reserve your space early. 11am-3pm $50 Register at 562-331-8030.

APR 23-24: “KARUNAMAYI DISCOURSE & BLESSINGS”
Karunamayi presents a free evening discourse beginning at 7pm Sunday. On Monday, individual blessings are available for all who want one starting at 9am. Information at 928-203-9477. Free.

APR 25: “HEALING WITH SPIRIT DOCTORS” Verna V. Aridon Yater, PhD, internationally renowned healer, trance channel, and author with the team of 27 spirit doctors, facilitates healing on the physical, emotional or spiritual level. Some people will see the doctors as they enter the room; others will feel them. $65. Register at 1-888-917-9643. 7-9:30pm.

Communication Seminars to be Presented in April

Communications specialist Mary Schnack will be teaching “The Power of Public Relations in Growing Your Business” on Wednesday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to Noon at the Sedona Public Library located at 3250 White Bear Rd.. The seminars are presented as part of the City's business grant program.

The public relations seminar covers how to create a communications plan, different tools to reach the media, including news releases, pitch letters and editorials, how to create a media list and how to build a relationship with the media, what is newsworthy, and how to create dynamic copy for a web site, brochure, newsletter and other printed material. “Public relations is a powerful, cost effective means to promote your business,” said Schnack. “As a small business owner, it is important to know and utilize all the components of a well-rounded public relations campaign.”

Registration is $50 in advance. Registration on-site is $60. Registration by credit card can be done at www.communicationbridges.com . For more information, please contact Schnack at mary@communicationbridges.com or (928) 204-9834.

New Frontiers Sedona hosts Earth Day Celebration

At the heart of New Frontiers is the desire to inspire personal growth and positive change.  New Frontiers does this by providing healthy choices, by educating ourselves and others, and by creating a delightful experience.  On Friday, April 21, from noon to 6 pm, New Frontiers Sedona store does just that by hosting a community Earth Day Celebration.  Discover what’s eco-friendly and happening in the community, from water conservation, recycling, organics, to GMO’s and more.  From noon to 6 pm meet various non-profit organizations and businesses working to make a difference; support local artists and check out a variety of unique vendors; pick up earth friendly samples and educational information and enjoy live music and dance performances. Food samples will include all natural meats and delicious organic fruits, vegetables and foods as well as locally produced products throughout the store. Entertainment provided from 12:00 - 6:00. 

Sedona has declared April as Water Awareness Month.  Be a whiz, take a water quiz.  Test your water IQ for your chance to win a $50 New Frontiers gift card and other prizes.  The quiz was developed in partnership with Sedona Is Water Wise.  The answers are actually on the back of the quiz so you can self evaluate your water knowledge.  Complete the quiz in its entirety for your chance to win free prizes including a $50 gift card to New Frontiers. The drawing will take place at 6 pm at New Frontiers Earth Day Celebration. No purchase necessary; winners need not be present to win.  In keeping with the Earth Day theme and the City of Sedona’s commitment to declaring April as Water Awareness Month, New Frontiers will also host a free educational presentation on water conservation. On Wed., April 12, at 7 pm join Wes Coate of Greenworks Plaza for a free educational presentation entitled Water Conservation Conversation. Join in this interactive conversation about water conservation; listen to what others have to say and share your tips too.  Coate will present information about some challenges our state and local community faces with water as well share conservation ideas including rainwater and grey water usage in house, lawn, water saving equipment and more.

Join New Frontiers for festivities throughout the afternoon on Friday, April 21, and discover what’s happening and how to become an active participant in our local community and environment. New Frontiers Natural Marketplace is located at 1420 W. Hwy. 89A and is open Mon. – Sat., 8 am to 9 pm and Sun. 8 am. to 8 pm.  For more information concerning the Earth Day activities and free community lectures call 282-6322.

Earth Works for Humanity Presents Returning to the Natural World

International Multicultural Weekend 

Amongst the Red Rocks of Sedona Arizona on April 21, 22 and 23 , join with Earthworks for Humanity to balance and heal Mother Earth with Elders from around the world. Through music, dance, prayers and cultural exchange we will gather to support our Mother and all that dwell upon, under and above her. Indigenous Elders from throughout the world will gather with scientists, Spiritual leaders and others to share their wisdom. The Aztecas and Deer Clan from Mexico , Havasupi from the Grand Canyon, Hopi Eagle Dancers and Yavapai-Apache Bird singers of Arizona , Incas from the Andes of Ecuador and Machu Picchu in Peru , Druids and Celts from England will all gather to share their culture and love of our Mother through music, dance and song.

Friday, April 21, 7:00pm to 10:00pm , Great Room of the Sedona Creative Life Center "Elders Speak" gathering - $15 Admission -  This gathering will set the intention and energy for the weekend ceremonies. Elders of various Indigenous, Scientific and Metaphysical backgrounds will provide a foundation of information regarding the Earth and our role in caring for her and each other.

Saturday, April 22, 8:30am to 5:00 pm. Gymnasium of Sedona Red Rock High School - Elders Gathering and Ceremony - $25, admission includes traditional Latin lunch. Be prepared for a tremendous exchange of high energy as the Aztecas and Celts and Druids share their music and dance that will vibrate through everyone in attendance and through the Earth grid systems. Throughout the day Elders will also share their wisdom and prayers.

Sunday, April 23, 9:00am to 4:00pm , Cafeteria of Sedona Red Rock High School. In-depth teachings and Workshops - $35 Admission includes lunch. Elders, Scientists and others will provide detailed information and conduct open discussions regarding the Earth, energy grid systems, Vortexes and cultural perspectives on Spirituality and customs.

Anyone wishing to attend will not be turned away. 18 years of age and under admitted free. We welcome and appreciate all additional donations. One way you can provide some very personal support to this gathering is by sponsoring an Elder. To ensure that we are able to pay for the airfares, gas, lodging and food to bring the Elders to this gathering we are asking for your help. This year's Earth-Works Gathering is going to cost $10,000. Please contact the Institute for Cultural Awareness at 928-646-3000 to find out more. You can also go to our web site www.ica8.org and make a donation using Pay Pal to make a Pay Pal or credit card donation.

Family comedy begins April 21

Old Town Players presents Over the River and Through the Woods April 21 through May 6 at the Clark Memorial Auditorium . A nationwide smash hit, Over the River and Through the Woods is a delightful comedy for the whole family . Watch as a young man's decision about his future sparks an eruption of unsolicited advice and matchmaking from his four Italian-American grandparents. Their general meddling and unending food provide all the guilt, love and exasperation that come with being a member of any family. . Evening shows begin at 7 p.m. and two Sunday matinees are scheduled at 2 p.m. The ticket prices are adults $8, seniors $6 and students $4. Please call 639-0538 to make reservations. Doors open 30 minutes before show times. For further information visit oldtownplayers.com

The Mineral Kingdom Workshop: Enriching our lives through the

Qualities of Crystals and Minerals

Spend two hours in a workshop and discover how minerals and crystals can enhance the environment in one's home and business while bringing increased prosperity, balance and spiritual growth. Workshop presenter Claire Waggoner has been studying crystals and their qualities, as well as buying and selling museum quality crystals, for over twenty-five years.

The Mineral Kingdom workshop will take place Saturday, April 22 at the Sedona Community Center , 2645 Melody Lane (formerly the Adult Community Center ). The workshop will be held 10:00 am until noon, followed by an opportunity to view and purchase a variety of crystals, ranging from small stones to collector quality specimens.

Workshop participants will learn the specific qualities of crystals including which crystals help sharpen memory and focus, increase mental well-being, create harmony in one's surrounding and increase personal prosperity. This workshop is especially suited to massage therapists, energy workers, crystal and astrology lovers, feng shui practitioners and interior designers.

Seating is limited. Pre-registration is $15 in advance by calling 282-5195 or $20 at the door. Each participant will be given a handout to take home that details the mineral qualities and how they function. The workshop is sponsored by Kunzang Palyul Choling, a Center for the Study and Practice of Tibetan Buddhism in the Nyingma Tradition.

Love is the Answer 2006 Event

This is your special invitation to our annual Love is the Answer weekend in beautiful Sedona , Arizona on April 28 – 30, 2006. This year we will gather at the picturesque Tlaquepaque Village , located on Oak Creek . The evening will be a wonderland of remarkable art, fantastic cuisine, exceptional wine, and outstanding entertainment. We have arranged for an international cachet of artists. They include Matthew Smith, realist painter from Maui , Hawaii , Heyoka Merrifield, sculptor/jeweler to the stars and author. Tania Smith Van Hoy, jewelry designer specializing in neckwear with Tibetan amulets will be arriving from Tasmania to unveil her newest collection. Victor Bregeda, surrealist painter will be arriving from Moscow , Russia to unveil his newest creations, and last but not least World Peace Artist Andrea Smith will host this wonderful event. The tariff for this gala extravaganza is $250 per person. 10% will be donated to the West Sedona School . This includes a luxurious gift bag valued at over $500. If you choose to make a qualifying purchase during our weekend, your full fare will be refunded .

Weekend Events: Luau Dinner Party- We will be hosting a Hawaiian Luau on Friday evening at the Tlaquepaque ballroom. This will give you the opportunity to meet the artists, learn about the areas of the world they are from and hear stories about their amazing works of art. Wine Tasting - Saturday Afternoon will take us on a journey to the sculpture gardens of the Foley estate in West Sedona . Here we will have a sommelier to pour your favorite wines along with delectable appetizers and tours of the seven acre estate. Sunday Morning Brunch - This fabulous weekend will close with a unique Sunday mid-morning brunch at Angelo's Ristorante of West Sedona . You will be surrounded by new friends, wonderful artists, mouth watering cuisine and magnificent art. Please remember whatever the question is, Love is the Answer!

Shaffer the Gallery Presents New Works by Owner/Artist

Shaffer the Gallery will be presenting new works by owner/artist SJ Shaffer on the First Friday of the Month "Evening in the Galleries" presented by the Sedona Gallery Association on May 5, 2006 from 5pm to 8pm. SJ Shaffer has been represented by some of the most prestigious galleries of the Southwest. She is involved with the Sedona Arts Festival and the Sedona Chamber of Commerce. Shaffer's Javelinas were present when Governor Janet Napolitano visited Tlaquepaque to declare the "Javelinas on Parade" a Arizona State Treasure.

Recently Shaffer was chosen by the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks Benefit Event to do the 25th Anniversary Jazz on the Rocks Poster. She is in good company with the other artists who have done previous posters for Jazz on the Rocks; Joyella Jean Mahone, Mike Medow, Kurt Walters, just to name a few. Joining her in the Gallery that evening of May 5, 2006 will be Sculptor Mike Medow with his beautifully carved wood sculptures. We look forward to seeing you there.

The 8th Annual Sedona Century Bicycle Tour

The 8th Annual Sedona Century Bicycle Tour will be held on Saturday, May 6th. It is a great outdoor event which draws hundreds of cyclists from around the country to participate in a unique ride, offering a metric century or 40 mile distance. This event is sponsored by the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, Absolute Bikes, Sedona Motors and other local businesses. This one day tour begins and ends in West Sedona and meanders through Page Springs, Cornville, Historic Old Town Cottonwood and Clarkdale. We are currently accepting sponsors, volunteers and rider registrations for this annual event which benefits vital programs of the Old Town Mission. If you would like more information, or to participate, please call Bryan @ (928) 301-2022. Online registration can be found at www.sedonacentury.com.

Call to Artists for Sedona Pin-Up Show

Sedona Arts Center is pleased to introduce a new addition to the Sedona arts scene -- the Sedona Pin-Up Show - May 6 & 7, 2006. Members and non-members, professional artists, emerging artists, beginning artists and wannabe artists are invited to enter works in the exhibition. The art will be literally “pinned” to the walls, filling all of the available hanging space in the new Community Exhibition Gallery. The Pin-Up Show opens with a gala on Saturday, May 6 (tickets $50 with catering generously donated by the new Bella Terra Bistro) followed by a public art sale on Sunday, May 7, 9am – 3pm . These are the only two days the show will be open.

All artists in Coconino and Yavapai Counties as well as any faculty or member of the Sedona Arts Center are invited to participate. Artists can submit only one piece each. They must hand deliver and pin-up their work at the Community Exhibition Gallery in the Art Barn. Works must be unframed, unmatted and no larger than 12” x 16” including borders. They must be on paper or canvas (canvas can be stretched over stretcher bars or mounted on panels) and must be priced between $100 - $300 . There will be absolutely no exceptions. The take-in schedule on May 6 is as follows: 9am – 10am – Sedona Arts Center Faculty, 10am – noon – Sedona Arts Center Members, and noon – 1pm any other artist residing in Coconino or Yavapai Counties . The schedule will continue until there is no wall space available – first come, first served. For more information on the Sedona Pin-Up show or for a full prospectus please call 928-282-3809, stop by the Arts Center or visit at www.SedonaArtsCenter.com .

Inspiration Thrives in the Studios of Sedonas’ Artists  

People from all over the country flock to Sedona for inspiration, and no place is more inspiring than the artist studio. On May 13 and 14th more than 25 local artists will open their studios to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the 4rd Annual Open Studios Tour. This free popular event is presented by the Sedona Visual Artists’ Coalition, a community of over 145 professional artists. The free self-guided tour of 30 studios offers a rare opportunity to visit artists in their studios and get an inside look at the artists creative process.  Tour maps are available at,  Sedona Visitor Centers, the Sedona Art Center, and can be downloaded from www.sedonaartistscoalition.org .   

A public  reception and exhibition to launch this event is open and free to the public, taking place  on Friday May 12, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the L’Auberge Resort.  The exhibit will highlight one piece of each artists work to help the viewer decide which artist studios to visit.  Artwork will include painting, sculpture, jewelry,  mosaics, printmaking, pastels mobiles, installation, watercolors and photography. Inspiration is crucial to the creative process, and  interviewing the coalition artists revealed that the experience of being inspired is different for each one.

This event is being co-sponsored by the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, L’Auberge Resort,  Gardens for Humanity & M & I Bank.  For more information, go to the Sedona Visual Artists Coalition website: www.sedonaartistscoalition.org ,   or call Randy Talbot at 928-282-0806 (randalltalbot@msn.com) or Nancy Robb Dunst at 928-282-0776  ( ndunst@yahoo.com).