Nearly half of the total population of Phoenix possesses visible Latino roots which many believe should be reflective of the City’s residents and experiences.

At a city council meeting held on September 22, Councilman Carlos Garcia made the following statement, “Considering the Latino population is 44% in the City of Phoenix, it is our duty to produce a cultural center that is absolutely amazing and inclusive of residents everywhere.”

Although the artistic expressions of Phoenix’s Latino community are diverse and vibrant, coverage among other facets of the culture is unfortunately segmented and under-exposed.

In early 2019, former Mayor Thelda Williams established the Latino Cultural Center Ad Hoc Committee to evaluate and make recommendations regarding the proposed construction of the Phoenix Latino Cultural Center

, including possible sites for the center.

Later in the year, City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture Executive Director Mitch Menchaca identified four sites for consideration, which were the Herberger Theater grounds, the North Building at Margaret T. Hance Park, the Phoenix Public Market parking lot, and the Regency Garage.

After further research was conducted into the specifics of each site, the ad hoc committee moved to approve the North Building adjacent to Margaret T. Hance Park for future development of the Latino Cultural Center due to its size, which included 22,000 square feet along with ample parking and easy access to programmable outdoor space.

“This center will be a jewel in the City of Phoenix and I believe this cultural institution will be a well-known destination point not only for individuals with Latino descent, but for citizens across the valley,” said Councilman Michael Nowakowski.

Event programming within the Latino Cultural Center will include a vast array of artist-led activities such as festivals, workshops, classes, lectures, performances, storytelling, and exhibits with an emphasis on developing the center’s inaugural community services.

“The unanimous vote on the Latino Cultural Center strategic plan demonstrates the support of this Council to create something that generations can enjoy and be proud of,” said Williams.

The massive center will serve as a home for artists and organizations who are already conducting programs and related affairs that create an effective visibility for Latino arts and culture in the community.

The Latino Center Ad Hoc Committee also recommended other events including theatre, film, school programs, artist studios, rehearsal space for practice as well as an incubation space for administrative offices.

“The Latino Cultural Center should be a point of pride for the Latino community and educate, inspire, and entertain all residents and visitors who come to the center,” said City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture Public Information Officer Matt Hamada.

Williams and others in the Phoenix City Council felt overjoyed when the final decision was made to move forward with the construction of the Phoenix Latino Cultural Center in addition to describing the great lengths it took to reach their goal.

“We’ve got a lot of work ahead to raise money for the project, but we are moving in a very good direction. I’m extremely grateful for all of the committee members and staff who worked hard on this project,” said Williams.

The City Council also allowed the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture to coordinate pop-up programming at libraries, community centers, and cultural events to promote the Latino Cultural Center before it opens in order to get the community excited about the upcoming project.

Hamada explained that construction will take place when sufficient funds are raised with programming starting as early as next fall, expressing his excitement to begin fundraising on the cultural institution.

“We are looking forward to continuing this project in the future and hopefully, we will have a Latino Cultural Center in the heart of Downtown Phoenix soon,” said Vice Mayor Betty Guardado.

The post Phoenix City Council Provides Update on the Proposed Latino Cultural Center appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

The team at Ivio Agency is eager to get out and support our local community. To that end, we have produced this comprehensive guide for navigating the re-opening phase of our local downtown economy. Now is the time to show support to your local businesses located in the heart of downtown Phoenix that have grown into a close-knit community over the years.

Now imagine our beloved downtown without your favorite spots. Or, consider the thought of strolling through your neighborhood and seeing doors shut among empty buildings, for good. The idea is heartbreaking for the entire community, especially when thinking about what the hard-working business owners would lose.

But right now YOU can make the difference and show your support to these local businesses.

Without a doubt… it is scary to step outside of your home these days. There’s a lot at stake. If we aren’t careful and intentional, more lives can be lost. Yes, it is that serious.

But, with some forethought and the right precautions, we can protect ourselves all while showing support to our beloved local businesses.

Remember, it is important to stay safe and always take the necessary precautions, but make sure you are also enjoying yourself and having fun!

Things to Keep in Mind When Venturing Out

BE PROTECTED

Be a role model and wear your mask.

Even though masks are not mandatory (except for a few stores like Costco), it is still respectful to wear them. Don’t worry about looking silly, they have all different types of designs out there to meet your style. Plus, you will be supporting small businesses that make the majority of these cloth masks!

Not into spending money on a mask? There are also helpful tutorials out there to make your own masks at home with things like bandanas and socks (just make sure they are not used socks).

Be a patron saint of sterilization, disinfect everything.

When you are out and about, do your part in keeping everything sanitized! This means avoid touching your face, especially when wearing a mask or gloves.

If you are shopping at a store that doesn’t sterilize their carts, do it yourself! It takes no time to wipe down your cart. Most stores have instructions on their sterilization process, so be sure to be familiar with these and follow them accordingly.

We know it is fun to touch anything and everything when out shopping, but avoid doing that. You can browse, but keep your hands to yourself.

Wash yo’ self

While you are at it, make sure you disinfect yourself, too! This means washing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Sing “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” to make it fun, plus let’s be honest, we all miss baseball.

If you are unable to wash your hands, lather up with that hand sanitizer.

Still not quite sure how to properly wash your hands? This helpful video has you covered!

Another pro tip to staying clean is to wipe down the bottoms of your shoes before stepping into your house. You might as well cover all of your bases while coming in and out of your home.

You can disinfect yourself and clothes – remove them before entering your home and spray yourself down with Lysol! And, don’t forget to wash that mask after each time you are out.

Do Your Part and Stay Apart

Yes, follow that minimum six-foot rule! Who knew the saying, “I wouldn’t touch them with a 10-foot pole” would become standard operating procedure one day.

Most stores have marked spots to make sure you are keeping your distance. Make sure to be respectful of others’ space and follow these rules by not getting too close.

Some tips on practicing social distancing:

• Rearrange your current workspace if you’re unable to work from home (this is the time for cubicles to shine)
• Avoid events with large amounts of people (put those parties on hold and jump on the party parade train. Many people around the country have organized car parades so we can still celebrate milestones while practicing social distancing)
• Practice frequent and thorough hand washing (Cue “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”…)
• Stay six feet apart from anyone at all times (be courteous of those around you)

For more extensive social distancing tips, check out the CDC’s website.

Don’t forget your handkerchief (Your pandemic swiss army knife!):

• It might not be the best, but can be used as a mask in a pinch (watch those tutorials!)
• Help avoid touching surfaces directly (especially helpful when getting gas)
• Can block the sun on your neck/head (it’s getting hot out there, hello triple digits)
• Can wipe the sweat away. That mask will be sweaty in the heat.

BE PREPARED

Like with anything in life, be prepared! Things must go smoothly during this reopening phase. The life of some businesses even depends on it. So, know what you are getting into when going into stores, restaurants, and other open spots.

Venturing Out Preparation Checklist

• Bring a handkerchief
• Have a shopping list ready if possible
• Look for guidance from the business on their website and social media pages
• Call ahead with any questions
• Look at Google! Store hours are updated and you can usually find out policies like if they are offering take out or delivery options. We have noticed businesses have been pretty good at keeping up with this information on Google.

BE PATIENT

Make sure to bring your halo because you may need to have the patience of an angel when out and about. Things take time, especially the re-opening phase. Businesses are going to have strict and special guidelines that must be followed. Remember, you get more with honey than vinegar.

People are nervous, scared, and in varying degrees of compliance with best practices due to a myriad of reasons. You are sure to see people not adhering to or practicing the best habits when out and about.

Don’t attack these people. People are rarely convinced to change their habits by being shamed, ridiculed, or criticized. There is no need to say anything to them or belittle them. Just continue to do what you can to be safe. It is all about self-responsibility.

And of course, you can’t forget the workers. Most of the workers at stores such as the grocery store are working long and hard hours. It is not their fault they are out of toilet paper, so don’t take it out on them. They have to follow guidelines just like you, so try to show some compassion.

At all times, you should be kind and courteous, remember these are your neighbors after all. If you must confront someone about something, be mindful of how you communicate your message. People are more likely to respond in a neighborly way if you phrase things as a request versus a demand. Do not underestimate how much this can make a difference when navigating through this new normal.

It’s Not Just What You Say, But How You Say It

The old saying is true. What you say and how you say it really makes a difference.

Good Example: Would you mind giving me a little more space? (Phrase it as a simple request.)

Bad Example: Can you back-up? You are too close. (Don’t phrase it as a demand.)

With everyone’s emotions at an all-time high right now, it is best to try to avoid any confrontation.

Pro Tips for Patronizing Your Phoenix Faves

Support your local faves!

Local businesses need us now more than ever. Now is the time to show your commitment to your community.

Restaurants, small businesses, local gyms – some may have been open, others are opening their doors after weeks of being closed. They need your help to stay afloat. Just because their doors are now open, they are not out of the woods yet.

When supporting your favorite restaurants, we recommend calling in or placing your order online ahead of time to verify hours of operation as things are constantly changing. Remember, most businesses are updating their hours and take-out options online, so that’s a great place to start.

Looking to find which restaurants are open? Check out these lists!

Buy gift cards

Believe it or not, gift cards are going to become a big help for small businesses.

Don’t need a service or product right now? Gift cards are the answer, plus, they make a great gift.

Show your support now and enjoy it later!

Gift cards are not limited to restaurants. Salons, cafes, stores, and movie theaters are great places to purchase a gift card.

This is extremely helpful for businesses that are unable to open right away, every dollar helps them in a time like this.

Leave a Review

Positive reviews are always helpful for a business, but especially now. Are you impressed with the smooth transition? Or maybe how they took care of their employees during the pandemic? Or maybe they always kept you up to date. Let them know how much you appreciate them!

We learned something one time that we always try to preach, if you like something about someone (or in this case, a business), tell them! Saying something nice could make their day or in this case, save their business.

Positive reviews go further than you might think for small businesses. People turn to Yelp, Google, Facebook, and other social media outlets for reviews. From restaurants to salons to stores, there is no shame in bragging about your experience.

Not only will your words brighten their day, but reviews can also drive much-appreciated traffic to them.

Don’t Forget the Farmers

Don’t forget the people behind the scene! All industries have been hit hard.

Although many farmer’s markets throughout the U.S. are closed due to the pandemic, products and food from their crops are still available online in many cases.

In Arizona specifically, a few farmer’s markets are starting to re-open under strict guidelines, while some remain closed for the time being.

You can check out this list to learn more about which farmer’s markets are open.

You could be the reason some of those glorious produce doesn’t go to waste!

Tips for Social Distancing in the Sun

With these new regulations in place, we might find ourselves standing in line and sometimes outdoors which means in the heat.

This is not such great news for us Arizonans, especially with us already seeing those triple digits. Nonetheless, we’ll want to support our local business, because well, the alternative is them having to close their doors. So we prepared for you some helpful reminders on how to social distance in the sun safely.

The Essential Arizona Sun Checklist

• Have a cold bottle of water with you
• Bring an umbrella for shade!
• Don’t forget your SPF protection
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Rock those stylish sunglasses
• Wear a hat to cover your face and head

We hope that by practicing these tips, you’ll be able to support our beloved local community safely, while also encouraging others to follow suit.

The fear of spreading COVID-19 is real, but the fear of your community shutting down and suffering is a comparable threat.

Remember, the fate of downtown Phoenix is in your hands. Some of you have probably got to know the workers at some of your most-loved spots. This is a trying time for them, but the community can band together to show support to these businesses. This is a good deed. Especially when you are doing it safely.

These truly are unprecedented times, but if we can work together and show our support to the community, we will be able to come out of this stronger and closer than ever.

Ivio Agency is a long-standing development partner of DPJ.

The post Be Safe and Smart While Supporting Downtown Phoenix Businesses (A Guide) appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

First Phase of Construction Continues

The first phase of construction for the Hance Park Revitalization Project is well underway. During this stage of the project, the “Fiesta Bowl Play at Hance Park” play area and surrounding infrastructure, escarpment and landscape will be built. Prior to construction of those features, repairs are being made to Interstate-10 tunnel joints located under the west side of the park. Much of the construction activity to date is related to the joint repairs.

Additionally, excavation and grading are underway, which will modify the park’s elevation for the play area, escarpment and landscape. In the coming weeks, geofoam, which provides a lightweight fill, will be installed. Temporary removal and salvage of trees continues. The work is being done by contractor Haydon Building Corp in coordination with the Arizona Department of Transportation

(ADOT).

When the first phase is completed, park-goers will be able to walk along a 15-foot-wide pathway the length of the escarpment, which will climb gently from east to west. Ultimately, the escarpment will be connected via a pedestrian bridge in a future phase of the project. The bridge will also allow visitors to travel between two separate lawn areas on either side under the escarpment. In the interim condition, access to the west side of the escarpment will be by a set of temporary stairs, which will be removed once the pedestrian bridge and the remainder of the escarpment is constructed. Click on the diagram below for an expanded look at park connectivity.

Construction Impact on Park Users

Dating back to March, the walking paths on the north and south edge of the west side of the park are temporarily closed. This closure is expected to last until December 2020. Due to that restriction, those wishing to connect through the park from west to east will need to use the sidewalk along Culver St. on the park’s north edge, and then access the stairs or ramp near the Central Ave. bridge. Additionally, area lighting within the footprint of the project is affected, but lighting outside the construction zone is active.

The community is reminded that this is a complex project and construction timelines and park user access is subject to change, but the Hance Park Partner Coalition is committed to maintaining consistent communication. The easiest way to follow project updates is by visiting the Hance Park Revitalization Project website.

As a reminder, per Phoenix City Code, construction activity is permitted from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. from May 1 to September 30 and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 1 to April 30.

Read additional information about Phoenix City Code as it relates to after-hours construction noise.

Managing the Spread of COVID-19

Being outdoors is important for health and wellness, and the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department encourages residents to get outside, get exercise and practice responsible physical distancing while exploring all that the city’s parks have to offer. City parks are open, but as the department continues to work with the community to manage the spread of COVID-19/coronavirus, the following park amenities are temporarily closed: restrooms, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, fitness equipment, ramadas, picnic tables and sports complexes. All large gatherings and events on city park property have been postponed as well. Guidelines about physical distancing when enjoying outdoor recreation can be found at Phoenix.gov/Parks.

Additionally, contractors/subcontractors working on the Hance Park Revitalization Project are following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and working in coordination with the Office of the City Engineer to maintain a worksite-specific safety plan related to COVID-19.

A Message from Banner Health: Staying Safe as COVID-19 Restrictions Ease

As stay-at-home restrictions begin to ease, people are starting to venture out of their homes, and some are even returning to work. But that doesn’t mean that the virus has gone away – or that there is a vaccine or a cure. So how can you stay safe and healthy while slowly returning to some semblance of normal life? First and foremost, stay the course. By this point we may feel like experts on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines set up to protect ourselves and prevent the spread of the coronavirus. However, these recommendations bear repeating.

Continue to Practice Social Distancing
According to the CDC, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. COVID-19 spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets that are produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. Even a person without symptoms can spread the virus.

Wash Your Hands Often
Yes, you need to continue washing your hands often, especially after you’ve been in a public place or after you’ve blown your nose, coughed or sneezed. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.

Cover Your Mouth and Nose When in Public

Everyone should wear a cloth face cover – whether it’s a mask, bandana or homemade face covering – when out in public and it is difficult to maintain social distancing measures, including trips to the grocery store or pharmacy.

Wearing Gloves When in Public
“While wearing gloves when out in public might make you feel safer, if they are not used perfectly, they could easily get you sick,” said Brandie Anderson, RN, MPH, CIC, infection prevention director at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson. “Think of touching germs on a surface as similar to touching red paint. If you’re wearing gloves and you touch red paint (the germs), then everything else you touch with those gloves will be contaminated with the red paint (germs), including your cell phone, car keys, eyes, nose or mouth.”

Maintain Healthy Habits to Boost Your Immune System
As we venture out, it is important to keep our immune system healthy to help reduce the risk of illness. Keep up that exercise routine, get plenty of sleep, make sure to drink enough water and eat a healthy diet.

Stay at Home as Much as Possible
We’re all anxious to resume our normal lives and get back out into the world. But while there is still no cure or vaccine for COVID-19, the safest thing you can do is keep your distance from others by staying at home.

Protections Work Together
“Each of these recommendations alone is only partially effective,” said Anderson. “If we practice social distancing but do not wash our hands often, we still risk getting sick by picking up germs from the surfaces we touch and putting them into our bodies by touching our nose, eyes or mouth.” By practicing all these recommendations, they work together to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to ourselves and each other.

Read more from Banner Health about COVID-19 safety recommendations.

Banner Health is a member of the Phoenix Community Alliance (PCA).

Dog Park Closure

Due to annual maintenance, the Hance Park Dog Park will be closed from May 18 to July 12. Dog park users are encouraged to visit the dog park in Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Rd., or the Thelda Williams Paw-Pup Park in downtown, 200 W. Jefferson St., during the closure. Paw-Pup Park is managed through a partnership between the City of Phoenix and the Downtown Phoenix Partnership.

Dog parks are one of the city’s most popular recreational amenities, and the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department provides 12 of these fenced-in, double-gated, off-leash activity areas citywide. Find a dog park near you.

Phoenix Community Alliance

Margaret T. Hance Park’s revitalization is the perfect complement to the visible progress throughout Downtown. The vision of the Park as a vibrant community gathering place marking the northern boundary of the Downtown area is central to the story. But the sheer numbers of new residents and economic impact of the Park and surrounding Downtown development also are crucial to understanding the Park’s key role.

The 2017 Hance Park Economic Impact Analysis recognized the Hance Park Revitalization Project would provide more than $6.6 billion in direct new spending over a 30-year period. Separately, a 2018 Economic Study of the Downtown Redevelopment Area (RDA) pegged Downtown’s total economic impact at $19.1 billion annually. A few years later, these numbers are likely an understatement.

Here are a few other statistics outlining the growth in the Downtown RDA surrounding Hance Park:

• The number of residents living Downtown is expected to grow from an estimated 12,000 in 2010 to more than 22,000 in 2022.
• More than 6,000 housing units are either under construction or in the pre-development stage, to house all those new neighbors.
• Crane counting is a new past-time Downtown, with 11 of them soaring over 10 projects.

Hance Park already is an oasis in our community. The revitalized Park will be even more critical as Downtown becomes a denser urban region.

For more information about the Phoenix Community Alliance (PCA), visit our website or contact us by e-mail via info@phoenixcommunityalliance.com.

The Hance Park Partner Coalition thanks the Fiesta Bowl for the first major donation toward the Hance Park Revitalization Project. The $2 million Fiesta Bowl legacy gift will be used specifically for the newly developed “Fiesta Bowl Play at Hance Park,” which will be constructed on the west side of the park and opened in conjunction with the Fiesta Bowl’s 50th Anniversary season. As part of the Fiesta Bowl’s 50th Anniversary celebration, its community efforts will live on through this multigenerational playground for millions of Arizona residents and guests to enjoy.

Thanks also to other organizations supporting PCA’s fundraising efforts: True North Studio, Arizona Community Foundation, DeFalco Family Foundation, Okland Construction, Dig Studio, CCBG Architects, Valley Metro, Clearway Energy and Alliance Bank of Arizona.

Hance Park Conservancy

The Hance Park Conservancy (HPC) was established in 2010. It is a community-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is the catalyst for a new chapter of public space renewal in Phoenix.

For information about the Hance Park Conservancy, visit our website.

This monthly newsletter, first published in December 2019, is produced by the Hance Park Partner Coalition. The Coalition encourages everyone to share this newsletter with family, friends and the organizations in which they are involved to help spread information and awareness about the project. Those who wish to receive it by e-mail can subscribe by visiting the Hance Park Revitalization Project website, which is also the best place to follow the latest updates about the project and park. The newsletter can also be viewed and downloaded via that website. Questions and comments about the project can be directed to Hance.Park@Phoenix.gov.

The post Hance Park Phase One Construction Update appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

COVID-19 shutdown a 32-year standing tradition of Art Detour and the Artlink’s Art d’Core Gala, some of the valley’s largest annual art events. Artlink Inc. (a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded 1989) formed to support artists by creating a network between artists, businesses, and the Phoenix community and shapes the valley’s artistic community with longstanding events like First Friday. While the Gala was canceled, the exhibition continued from March 19 through its closing date of April 14th. Artists and the public were encouraged to attend the exhibition at the Park Central Warehouse while practicing social distancing. Artlink also produced a virtual gallery walk-through of the exhibition with has surpassed 400 views on YouTube as of this publication.

COVID-19 was not the only marked difference in this year’s Art d’Core Exhibition. Rather than internally selecting artists, this year was an open call. Additionally, it was the first year participating artists were encouraged to collaborate with members of the artist’s council. The resulting exhibition was a gorgeous display of partnership through large scale installations, video pieces, photography, and painting.

The exhibiting artists included: Joan Baron, Rowan Burkam, Peter Deise, Rigo Flores, Jeremie “Bacpac” Franko, Noemi Gonzalez, Sam Heard, Mike Jacobs, Eric Kasper, William LeGoullon, Gloria Martinez, Abbey Messmer, Mary Meyer, Rembrandt Quiballo, Patricia Sannit, Melissa Sclafani, Rachel Srinivasan, Marilyn Szabo, Tricee Thomas, Christy Wittmer, Yuko Yabuki, and Bobby Zokaites.

While COVID-19 has changed the art world in many ways it has only strengthened Artlink’s mission. On March 19, Artlink transitioned The Artists Forward Fund (TAFF) to the Emergency Relief Fund for Arizona Artists and Arts Professionals in partnership with Arizona Commission on the Arts and partnership of Arizona Community Foundation, the City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, and Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona, which provided emergency relief grants of up to $750 to those in the arts community effected by closures and canceled events due to COVID-19.

Artlink also took the opportunity to post signage in the exhibition directing those who could to contribute to the fund. Thanks to overwhelming community support, the Emergency Relief Fund has distributed a total of $171,830 to 235 artists and arts professionals across Arizona. Artlink’s primary goal was for the exhibition to contribute to raising awareness for the emergency fund in any way possible.

The exhibition is still viewable via the virtual gallery walk-through, and through photos on moodroomphx.com, Artlink’s new concept gallery, which seeks to address the needs of 21st-century artistic practice. Furthermore, while the Emergency Relief Fund is now closed, the Arizona Commission on the Arts continues to update the site should the opportunity to reopen applications present itself.

The post Exhibition Helps to Raise Support for Artists During COVID-19 appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

—The Phoenix City Council has approved using $2.6 million in federal Coronavirus Relief Funding to help artists, along with nonprofit arts and culture organizations, hurting financially because of the global health emergency.

Nationwide, the nonprofit arts sector has already experienced nearly $5 billion in losses with over 300,000 full-time jobs lost. Today’s vote to allocate $2.6 million will include one-time emergency relief grants up to $50,000 to local arts and cultural groups who lost revenues because of the COVID-19 pandemic from events, programs and performances being canceled.

The funding will also provide local artists with grants up to $1,500 whose income was lost due to performances, shows, contracts and sales being canceled or terminated since March 1. In the Phoenix area, it is predicted that arts and culture organizations will lose between $10,000 and $1 million.

“This vote represents one of the largest municipal investments in the arts sector nationwide – and it is a smart investment” said Mayor Kate Gallego. “The Phoenix arts and culture sector generates over $400 million annually. When the arts are supported, our quality of life improves and our local economy benefits.”

“Phoenix artists, along with arts and culture organizations, are a vital part of our local economy and contribute to our well-being and a vibrant community,” said Councilwoman Debra Stark, chair of the Land Use and Livability Subcommittee. “Our artists and arts and culture organizations may have a long road ahead of them to get back on their feet, but we are hopeful the funding my Council colleagues and I approved will be helpful toward their recovery.”

“As a strong advocate for the arts, I am thrilled that today, we approved $2.6 million to help our local art community during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Councilwoman Laura Pastor. “I also want to thank the Mayor and my colleagues for supporting my motion to add $600,000 in additional funding to further help local artists.”

The money being given to the Arts and Culture Coronavirus Relief Program will be managed by the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture. “We are grateful to the Mayor and City Council for including the arts in their efforts to provide relief from the coronavirus pandemic,” said Mitch Menchaca, director for the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture. “Preserving the arts in Phoenix is essential to keeping everyone connected to the creativity and healing that art provides, not only to its makers but to the people who experience that art as well. This funding will ensure our local artists will be able to continue their great work.”

Details on how to apply for the money are being finalized and will soon be available on the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture’s web page: Phoenix.gov/arts.

Read more arts and culture news from City of Phoenix here.

*DPJ’s Wire series delivers news and information straight from trusted sources without translation.

The post Phoenix Approves $2.6M in Federal Funds for Arts Relief appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

First Phase of Construction Underway

The Hance Park Revitalization Project moved into the first phase of construction during the week of March 16. The initial focus of this phase is to repair Interstate-10 tunnel joints underneath the west side of the park. That work is being done by contractor Haydon Building Corp in coordination with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). The joint repairs will be done prior to construction of the “Fiesta Bowl Play at Hance Park” play area and surrounding infrastructure and landscape. The building of the play area will begin later this spring and be completed by the end of the year.

Construction Impact on Park Users

With temporary fencing in place and construction equipment in use, the walking paths on the north and south edge of the west side of the park are closed. This closure is expected to last until December. Due to that restriction, those wishing to connect through the park from west to east will need to use the sidewalk along Culver St. on the park’s north edge, and then access the stairs or ramp near the Central Ave. bridge. Additionally, area lighting within the footprint of the project will be affected, but lighting outside the construction zone will remain as is. As was shared in previous newsletters and other communication, work in the park during the coming weeks also will include removal and salvage of select trees. This removal is temporary. When completed, the entire park will boast a total of more than 1,000 trees – approximately double the existing amount.

As part of phase one demolition work, the flag poles that recognize the Phoenix Sisters Cities initiative were removed. The flag poles will not be part of the redesigned park. As such, City of Phoenix staff and project design team HargreavesJones is working with Phoenix Sister Cities representatives to develop a new way to represent this partnership in the park. The community is reminded that this is a complex project and construction timelines and park user access is subject to change, but the Hance Park Partner Coalition is committed to maintaining consistent communication. The easiest way to follow project updates is by visiting the Hance Park Revitalization Project website.

As a reminder, per Phoenix City Code, construction activity is permitted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from October 1 to April 30 and from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. from May 1 to September 30. Read additional information about Phoenix City Code as it relates to after-hours construction noise.

Managing the Spread of COVID-19

Being outdoors is important for health and wellness, and the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department encourages residents to get outside, get exercise and practice responsible physical distancing while exploring all that the city’s parks have to offer. City parks are open, but as the department continues to work with the community to manage the spread of COVID-19/coronavirus, the following park amenities are temporarily closed: restrooms, playgrounds, basketball and volleyball courts, fitness equipment, ramadas, picnic tables and sports complexes. All large gatherings and events on city park property have been postponed as well. Guidelines about physical distancing when enjoying outdoor recreation can be found at Phoenix.gov/Parks.

Additionally, contractors/subcontractors working on the Hance Park Revitalization Project are following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines and working in coordination with the Office of the City Engineer to maintain a worksite-specific safety plan related to COVID-19.

Phoenix Community Alliance

Margaret T. Hance Park’s revitalization is the perfect complement to the visible progress throughout Downtown. The vision of the Park as a vibrant community gathering place marking the northern boundary of the Downtown area is central to the story. But the sheer numbers of new residents and economic impact of the Park and surrounding Downtown development also are crucial to understanding the Park’s key role.

The 2017 Hance Park Economic Impact Analysis recognized the Hance Park Revitalization Project would provide more than $6.6 billion in direct new spending over a 30-year period.  Separately, a 2018 Economic Study of the Downtown Redevelopment Area (RDA) pegged Downtown’s total economic impact at $19.1 billion annually. A few years later, these numbers are likely an understatement.

Here are a few other statistics outlining the growth in the Downtown RDA surrounding Hance Park:

• The number of residents living Downtown is expected to grow from an estimated 12,000 in 2010 to more than 22,000 in 2022.
• More than 6,000 housing units are either under construction or in the pre-development stage, to house all those new neighbors.
• Crane counting is a new past-time Downtown, with 11 of them soaring over 10 projects.

Hance Park already is an oasis in our community. The revitalized Park will be even more critical as Downtown becomes a denser urban region.

For more information about the Phoenix Community Alliance (PCA), visit our website or contact us by e-mail via info@phoenixcommunityalliance.com.

The Hance Park Partner Coalition thanks the Fiesta Bowl for the first major donation toward the Hance Park Revitalization Project. The $2 million Fiesta Bowl legacy gift will be used specifically for the newly developed “Fiesta Bowl Play at Hance Park,” which will be constructed on the west side of the park and opened in conjunction with the Fiesta Bowl’s 50th Anniversary season. As part of the Fiesta Bowl’s 50th Anniversary celebration, its community efforts will live on through this multigenerational playground for millions of Arizona residents and guests to enjoy.

Thanks also to other organizations supporting PCA’s fundraising efforts: True North Studio, Arizona Community Foundation, DeFalco Family Foundation, Okland Construction, Dig Studio, CCBG Architects, Valley Metro, Clearway Energy and Alliance Bank of Arizona.

Hance Park Conservancy

The Hance Park Conservancy (HPC) was established in 2010. It is a community-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that is the catalyst for a new chapter of public space renewal in Phoenix.

For information about the Hance Park Conservancy, visit our website.

M3F Attracts 24,000 to Hance Park

More than 24,000 people were in Hance Park during the weekend of March 6 to 8 to celebrate music, art and food at the M3F music festival. It was the seventh straight year that the park served as the venue for this event. All proceeds from the festival benefit local nonprofit organizations, and after this year’s event M3F donated more than $600,000. The list of organizations to be supported include the Phoenix Children’s Hospital Music Therapy Program, Habitat for Humanity – Northern Arizona Chapter, Teach for America, and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. A portion of ticket sales proceeds will also help fund trees to be planted in parks citywide.

This monthly newsletter, first published in December 2019, is produced by the Hance Park Partner Coalition. The Coalition encourages everyone to share this newsletter with family, friends and the organizations in which they are involved to help spread information and awareness about the project. Those who wish to receive it by e-mail can subscribe by visiting the Hance Park Revitalization Project website, which is also the best place to follow the latest updates about the project and park. The newsletter can also be viewed and downloaded via that website. Questions and comments about the project can be directed to Hance.Park@Phoenix.gov.

The post First Phase of Hance Park Construction Underway appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

The Rebel Lounge owner and talent buyer Stephen Chilton sits on the board of the newly formed association

Wire*—The National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), whose members, employees, artists and local communities are facing an existential crisis as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are in urgent need of targeted legislative and regulatory assistance. Today [April 22] NIVA sent a letter to Washington leadership proposing solutions to address the unique and dire situation facing the industry. Local Venues including Crescent Ballroom, The Rebel Lounge, The Marquee Theatre, Club Red are strongly supporting NIVA’s ongoing efforts.

“Our passionate and fiercely independent operators are not ones to ask for handouts,” said Dayna Frank, NIVA Board President and owner of First Avenue in Minneapolis. “But because of our unprecedented, tenuous position, for the first time in history, there is legitimate fear for our collective existence.”

The letter to Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi, House of Representatives Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer is HERE.

NIVA is comprised of more than 960 of the most influential independent music venues and promoters across 50 states [as of April 24], including The Rialto Theatre in Tucson, The Nile Theatre in Mesa, The Orpheum Theatre in Flagstaff, and Washington, D.C. Independent venues were among the first to close as COVID-19 spread across the country, and unfortunately, are also likely to be among the last to reopen.

Due to unique circumstances such as the indefinite closure of our industry and zero revenue for the foreseeable future, NIVA has requested specific funding programs to assist while we are completely shut down as the result of government mandates.

The goal is to enable independent venues to survive the shutdowns, reopen in the future, and once again contribute to the economic revival of our communities. It is estimated that for every $1 spent on a ticket, a total of $12 in economic activity is generated within communities on restaurants, hotels, taxis, and retail establishment.  While we are small businesses, the estimated direct annual economic impact we bring to local communities is nearly $10 billion.

It will likely take months for venues to resume to their full performance schedules, but once they are permitted to reopen, capacity reductions may be required for safety. NIVA is also seeking national guidelines for large gatherings to occur in a safe manner. Uniformity across the country and throughout the industry will ensure artists can resume a tour schedule and fans can come and enjoy shows once again.

NIVA members in Arizona:

Chopper John’s
Rialto Theatre
191 Toole
The Rebel Lounge
Relentless Beats
Club Congress
Club Red
Last Exit Live
Greenhouse Productions
The Pressroom
Nile Theater
Pub Rock
The Lunchbox
National Comedy Theatre
The Trunk Space
The Orpheum Theater
Universatile Music
Yucca Tap Room
Psyko Steve Presents
Phenomenon Concerts
The Rock
Crescent Ballroom
Valley Bar
Phoenix Amazon Entertainment
The Lost Leaf
Celebrity Theatre
Green Room Entertainment
The Pressroom
Marquee Theatre
Lucky Man Concerts

Independent venues and promoters can join NIVA here: NIVA Membership

*DPJ’s Wire series delivers news and information straight from trusted sources without translation. Some updates have been made for clarity.

The post Independent Venues Organize to Fight for Survival appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

As part of its mission to serve the community, The Churchill in downtown Phoenix has partnered with local farmers, bakers and chefs, including James Beard Award-winner, Charleen Badman of FnB, to launch an innovative weekly curbside produce and food pickup service that helps people Valley-wide to cook like a chef, while directly supporting local farmers and restaurant workers in need. Starting today, The Churchill’s new Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program will offer three different sizes of pre-packed boxes ($20, $30 or $40) filled with the freshest foods from the Valley’s own Sun Produce Co-op, Noble Breads, Hickman’s Eggs and Northerly Oats (plus optional to-go beer, wine and cocktails from The Churchill’s on-site The Brill Line).

The Churchill’s new CSA program has also partnered with top local chefs such as The Churchill’s own Bernie Kantak (Citizen Public House, The Gladly, Commander Hamburger), Danielle Leoni (The Breadfruit and Rum Bar), Doug Robson (Gallo Blanco, Otro Café) and Charleen Badman (FnB) to offer a Chef’s box ($40) with ingredients and recipes personally curated by each week’s featured chef.

Most important, says The Churchill co-founder Kell Duncan, “All proceeds from each Chef’s box will be donated directly to support out-of-work staff at each chef’s restaurants. And the sales of all CSA boxes at The Churchill will also provide critical support to small local farmers who have lost a large portion of their business selling to restaurants and farmer’s markets.”

Customers are also encouraged to Buy One, Give One, meaning they can choose to donate any sized produce box to support St. Mary’s Food Bank. A proud fifth-generation Arizonan with deep farming roots, Duncan would also like to acknowledge the many people who helped bring this program together, including Cindy Gentry at Sun Produce, and consultants Sara Anderson and Patty Emmert, and Pinnacle Prevention, an Arizona-based nonprofit organization dedicated to growing healthy families and communities.

Available for order online at www.thechurchillphx.com, each week’s CSA box options will be posted on Tuesdays, with all orders due on Sunday for pickup the following Friday. This week’s orders are due by Sunday April 26, for pickup on Friday, May 1 between 4 – 7 pm.

Located at 901 N. 1st St. in Phoenix (www.thechurchillphx.com

), The Churchill is temporarily open only for curbside CSA pickups and carryout from The Brill Line Beer & Spirits, Freak Brothers Pizza, Foxy Fruit Acai Bowls & Smoothies and Sauvage Bottle Shop. Named after its historic downtown Phoenix neighborhood–Evans Churchill–this welcoming 14,000 sq.-ft. urban marketplace is constructed out of 19 upcycled shipping containers. Co-founded and managed by Phoenix natives, Kell Duncan and Hartley Rodie, The Churchill is normally home to 10 small local businesses, overlooking a 9,000 sq.-ft. communal courtyard.

The post The Churchill’s Curbside Produce Pickup to Benefit Farmers and Restaurant Workers appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

More than 260 local Arizona restaurants are already taking advantage of this offer, with presence in ads similar to this that is running today. Restaurant groups, such as the Arizona Restaurant Association, are also using this opportunity to launch and promote creative Take Out campaigns that benefit the broader food community.

“At this difficult time for our restaurant and so many friends, we know keeping our business top of mind will help us get through this challenging time,” said Brad Danler, General Manager, The Henry. “Thanks to our Cox media partners support, we have been able to do what we do best, feed people, through a new to-go program for our neighbors.”

To take advantage of the Cox Media offer, restaurant owners should email MarketingInsights@CoxMedia.com and include the name and location of their establishment.

“In addition to providing an essential service for so many people, local restaurants also deliver welcome comfort and variety to people,” said Rich Barone, Arizona vice president, Cox Media. “Local restaurants are such an important part of our communities and we are committed to helping connect with customers during this challenging time.”

“During these unfortunate and trying times you realize who is a true friend and partner, for Arizona’s restaurant industry there is no question about Cox Media being our tremendous friend and partner.  The Arizona Restaurant Association and industry will long remember and be grateful for the generosity and support of the entire Cox Media family.” Steve Chucri, President and CEO, Arizona Restaurant Association

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Cox is also joining with other Internet & Television Association (NCTA) members to provide $100 million in public service advertising through June to help educate consumers on the pandemic and prevent the spread of the virus.

Previously announced Cox support for the pandemic includes temporarily increasing customer internet speeds and lowering prices on entry tiers, suspending data usage overage fees and offering sixty days free broadband for low-income students who aren’t already connected via Cox’s Connect2Compete program.

For more information on Cox’s coronavirus relief efforts, visit cox.com

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*DPJ’s Wire series delivers news and information straight from trusted sources without translation.

The post Cox Media Offers AZ Restaurants Free Advertising during COVID-19 Crisis appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.

Wire*—In response to the quarantine for COVID 19, The Nash is broadcasting two concerts a week for fans of jazz to enjoy at home. Dubbed the “One More Time” Concert Series, the concerts are taken from the Nash’s impressive archive recorded during the artists’ original appearances and include some of the greatest moments since the jazz club’s inception in downtown Phoenix.

All concerts are streamed via the Nash facebook page at 6:30 pm MST/9:30 EST each Wednesday and Saturday night. Upcoming concerts include the legendary Jimmy Cobb who performed at The Nash for his “This I Dig of You” CD Release Concert (April 25) Warren Wolf: Amazing Vibes (April 29), vocalist Mary Stallings w/Eric Gunnison Trio + Javon Jackson (May 2).

Future broadcast concerts will include such artists as Cory Weeds featuring David Hazeltine, Lewis Nash The Japan Jazz Connection featuring Mayu Saeki, guitarist Randy Napoleon and pianist Emmet Cohen.

To receive alerts for upcoming concerts sign up for The Nash email notifications.

All broadcasts are offered free to the public and can be viewed at The Nash facebook page

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Those interested in helping The Nash during the quarantine may contribute to the response fund at thenash.org/helpnow.

For more information on The Nash and to view the full schedule of events and jazz programs visit TheNash.org.

*DPJ’s Wire series delivers news and information straight from trusted sources without translation.

The post The Nash to Broadcast ‘One More Time’ Concert Series appeared first on Downtown Phoenix Journal.