Tommy Acosta, Sedona Times Publishing guest writer Sedona AZ (December 20, 2008) – There’s a lot of talk going on whether a strong or weak mayor is the best form of local government, especially for Sedona. Unfortunately, these opinions don’t quite grasp the reality of political science or what constitutes a weak or strong mayor. It is not about whether the mayor has executive powers or not. It... 

Sedona, AZ – By Tommy Acosta… So the news is out. The Sedona City Attorney has moved to dismiss the charges against Cliff Ochser stemming from an alleged-threatening letter sent to former-Sedona mayoral candidate Matthew Turner. Like who didn’t see this coming? Like I said in my previous article on the case, Mr. Turner and the city attorney would have positioned themselves and the city for... 

Sedona AZ (December 17, 2008) – They are hungry. They are broke. They are scared. We see them but we don’t see them. Tommy Acosta They could be your neighbor, a grocery clerk you no longer see working where you shop, your favorite server or retail clerk who is no longer there. They are the victims of a merciless economy bankrupting our nation. They are Sedonans living at the edge of, or in,... 

Sedona AZ (December 16, 2008) — I just can’t resist putting in my two cents on the recent shoe-throwing incident in Baghdad where our President was subject to a degrading attack no head of state has ever had to endure. What impressed me was not the “cojones” of the journalist who threw the shoes and made a statement heard and seen round the world concerning the war in Iraq, seen by many... 

Sedona, AZ — By Tommy Acosta … Waking up to such a grey and dreary day sets the tone for today’s installment. Thinking about Sedona families standing in the morning cold outside the community food banks and my heart and good will go to those in need. I saw this cartoon yesterday where a couple is sitting at a dinner table. He is eating dog food and she is eating cat food. He says, “I... 

Tommy Acosta Sedona AZ (December 11, 2008) – Good day Sedona! Lot’s on the plate today for us to cover. First, we should be receiving our hard-copy issue of the Sedona-Verde Valley Times newspaper in the mail today or tomorrow. Be sure to check this issue out. In it we cover hunger in Sedona, something I’m sure some would rather sweep under the table but something those who care in our community... 

Sedona, AZ — By Tommy Acosta… I just hate admitting being wrong about anything, especially about my political observations and digressions. Though I’m tempted to say I was wrong that the Fed’s response on Barbara Litrell’s request for a NEPA study put a monkey wrench into the plans to put the 76 or more lights on 89A, I will not succumb to temptation and stick to my guns. If anything,... 

Sedona Verde Valley Times Guest Editorial by Tommy Acosta Sedona AZ (December 9, 2008) – On November 24, Judge C. Kenneth Ray II of the Sedona Magistrate Court issued an order that the case against Sedona citizen Clifford Ochser filed by Sedona City Attorney Michael Goimarac, in the matter of former mayoral candidate Matthew Turner receiving an alleged-threatening letter, must go to jury trial 9... 

Sedona AZ (December 8, 2008) – This Christmas is a very special time for our nation as the old administration gives way to make room for the new. I’d like to muse a bit on the gifts left to the world and America by the Bush administration and give appreciation we are coming to the end of a very dark time for all. Our president leaves office with the American and world economy in shambles. It... 

Tommy Acosta Sedona AZ (December 7, 2008) – Oh dear! Oh my! Another stumbling block in the path of the 76 or more lights for 89A. This…is a big one. This saga plays out like a heavyweight match between two worthy opponents in an Ultimate Fighting contest. Back and forth and back and forth. It looks like the pro-dark skies group has gained advantage, holding the pro-lights group down on...