Labor Day is coming, and so is a busy weekend as people seek to escape the Phoenix heat. Destinations around the country share our tourism concerns, such as overcrowding. I recently spoke at a national conference in LA to tourism managers wanting information about Sedona’s tourism management approach that centers on partnerships and listening to the community, a far cry from the days when destinations simply tried to attract visitors. Wednesday, I was inspired by partner presentations on the OHV issue, accelerated transit and more at the Community Pulse event sponsored by APS. I briefed the audience on our September 22 plan to convene a public forum on short-term rentals, which challenge our quality of life and sustainability initiatives. Look for more details soon. Enjoy your weekend!

Goldenstein Gallery celebrates their August summer series with exhibits by renowned artists that includes paintings, a beautiful outdoor sculpture garden throughout the L’Auberge de Sedona resort and a thriving Artists in Residence program where guests can meet artists while they paint. Call (928) 204-1765 to schedule an Art Tour that explores Goldenstein’s Art Exhibits at L’Auberge.

Homes represent around one-fifth of our energy in the US. Many of those buildings are old, inefficient, and in some cases, a health hazard. The worst offenders are typically in old red-lined districts, a belching echo of discrimination. That’s why Cleveland tore up its old climate action plan and rewrote it to address climate justice. Retrofitting homes for low income residents is key to climate justice. More.

Healthy World Sedona (HWS) is taking reservations for its Healthy World Vitality Plan (HWVP) fall session, an ongoing program to help people prevent and reverse chronic disease through lifestyle practices. HWVP creates small groups focused on nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, restorative sleep and life engagement. Consider creating a sponsored HWVP group for your business for a happier and healthier workforce. Learn more at hwvitality.com or call 928-821-6754.

On September 25 – 26, 2021 the Sedona Winefest will be returning for its 12th annual celebration at the Sedona Posse Grounds Park (525 Posse Ground Rd., Sedona, Arizona 86336). The two-day wine festival will feature 28 Arizona wineries, music, food trucks, a Plein Air Painting demonstration on Saturday, the Sugar Thieves band live on Sunday and a variety of artisan vendors. $35/person in advance or $40 at the door, which includes 6 wine tasting tickets and a commemorative glass.