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Carefree Truth
Issue #865, October 23, 2020
Issue #865, October 23, 2020
Councilwoman Cheryl Kroyer reported that the Economic Development Director, Steve Prokopek, presented the idea of an Ambassador Program to her. The "Ambassadors" would function like docents at a museum.
She said she was most impressed by how Mr. Prokopek had gotten things happening in town in the middle of a pandemic. He found ways to do things that are safe and that give our residents something to do. There are concerts, art walks, and new businesses opening in downtown Carefree. There's a new vitality and energy.
Gary Neiss explained that a new staff member would be hired and the Green Room in the Pavilion would be converted into a Visitors' Center. The Green Room has been used as a place for entertainers to change clothes or relax during large events, but has mostly been used as a storage area for the Club Car, tables and chairs.
It is a natural place for a Visitors' Center, located beside the stage and close to the public restrooms. The double metal doors on the north side by the stage would be replaced by glass doors and Visitor/Neighborhood signs would be placed over those doors and the single door on the south side facing the Post Office building. This Center would facilitate efforts to reach out to residents, businesses and visitors alike, and it would serve as the headquarters for the volunteer Ambassadors.
Councilman Mike Krahe said, "Sign me up!" Ms. Kroyer said the Town would be soliciting 10-15 volunteers soon, after deciding on hours and dates. The program would initially be launched on weekends and during other key times during the week. She expected it would be slow at first, but would gain momentum once the pandemic has passed. She promised Dr. Krahe's name would be at the top of the volunteer list.
Mr. Prokopek said there was a program like this in downtown Phoenix, with people riding around on bikes, and it really helped. He noted that more eyes around helped with security as well as helping people find their way to the businesses they are seeking. What makes Carefree special is that the people in Carefree really, really care about their community, and this is what this program is about on all levels. It also provides a great way to get feedback from consumers, such as where people are shopping and what kind of stores they would like to see, using non invasive questions.
Mayor Les Peterson said to sign him up too. He was enthusiastic about the idea, and felt it gave Council members a great opportunity to talk to people. Vice Mayor John Crane agreed.
Mr. Neiss said it would take a little time to reposition the Green Room to make it suitable for a Visitors' Center, but assured the Mayor that it does already have AC and heat. However, the Ambassador Program will commence prior to the improvements being made to the Green Room.
https://vimeo.com/466401730
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Copyrighted
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list.
Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.
Gary Neiss explained that a new staff member would be hired and the Green Room in the Pavilion would be converted into a Visitors' Center. The Green Room has been used as a place for entertainers to change clothes or relax during large events, but has mostly been used as a storage area for the Club Car, tables and chairs.
It is a natural place for a Visitors' Center, located beside the stage and close to the public restrooms. The double metal doors on the north side by the stage would be replaced by glass doors and Visitor/Neighborhood signs would be placed over those doors and the single door on the south side facing the Post Office building. This Center would facilitate efforts to reach out to residents, businesses and visitors alike, and it would serve as the headquarters for the volunteer Ambassadors.
Councilman Mike Krahe said, "Sign me up!" Ms. Kroyer said the Town would be soliciting 10-15 volunteers soon, after deciding on hours and dates. The program would initially be launched on weekends and during other key times during the week. She expected it would be slow at first, but would gain momentum once the pandemic has passed. She promised Dr. Krahe's name would be at the top of the volunteer list.
Mr. Prokopek said there was a program like this in downtown Phoenix, with people riding around on bikes, and it really helped. He noted that more eyes around helped with security as well as helping people find their way to the businesses they are seeking. What makes Carefree special is that the people in Carefree really, really care about their community, and this is what this program is about on all levels. It also provides a great way to get feedback from consumers, such as where people are shopping and what kind of stores they would like to see, using non invasive questions.
Mayor Les Peterson said to sign him up too. He was enthusiastic about the idea, and felt it gave Council members a great opportunity to talk to people. Vice Mayor John Crane agreed.
Mr. Neiss said it would take a little time to reposition the Green Room to make it suitable for a Visitors' Center, but assured the Mayor that it does already have AC and heat. However, the Ambassador Program will commence prior to the improvements being made to the Green Room.
https://vimeo.com/466401730
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Copyrighted
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list.
Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.