It all started with four sold-out movie screenings in April 2016 at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre. The film was Medicine of the Wolf directed by Julia Huffman, and the organizers were Betsy Klein and Timon Pratt, who would go on to found the nonprofit organization Plan B to Save Wolves. The screening included an appearance by a pack of wolf dogs, and our town of animal lovers was hooked. The overwhelming response led to the inaugural Sedona Wolf Week in 2017; it drew more than 1,100 attendees. When it came time to organize the 2018 event, which takes place April 17-21 at Poco Diablo Resort, the founders were bombarded with experts looking to get involved – and attendees eager to mark their calendars. “I think the people of Sedona are very open, understanding and appreciative of the beauty that surrounds us and everything that comes with it,” says Betsy. “They became so passionate once they realized what was going on with the wolves. The City of Sedona awarded us a grant and the chamber made us an annual event.”
The Sedona Wolf Week schedule includes film screenings, speakers, wolf socials, cocktail receptions, team building led by anthropologist Philip Folsom, a children’s program and a dinner fundraiser. (All of the presentations are free to attend.) Highlights include presentations by former-wolf-hunter-turned-wolf-advocate Carter Niemeyer and Defenders of Wildlife representative Craig Miller. Author Nate Blakeslee, who wrote American Wolf: A True Story of Survival and Obsession in the West, will also give a presentation and sign books at a VIP reception. Co-Existence Day, which happens April 20, is a full day of panelists from both sides of the wolf debate including four ranchers. Betsy says it was one of the most popular events last year. “We aren’t going to get anywhere unless all sides come to the table,” says Betsy.
Funds raised from Sedona Wolf Week benefit Apex Protection Project and Plan B to Save Wolves. Monies donated during the wolf socials go toward the care of the ambassador wolves. The whole purpose of Wolf Week is to educate and make people aware of the important role such a vilified species plays in our ecosystem. “I think our co-founder Timon Pratt says it best,” says Betsy. “Why is dog man’s best friend and wolf man’s worst enemy?” – Erika Ayn Finch. Photo courtesy of Old Town Center for the Arts.
SEDONA CALENDAR: Events, activities, shows, happenings
