It is hard to believe it has been eight years since I approached Town Hall to pitch my idea for Art on the Avenue. It thrills me to see how much this event has grown in those 8 years. My vision was to create an event that would bring foot traffic into the downtown area.

Based on feedback I have received from restaurants and retailers, Thursday is one of their best days of the week. I enjoy hearing from visitors on how they love bringing their guests to our event and spending their day in our beautiful town.

It is a perfect opportunity to show off our Fountain, our park amenities, retail stores and have lunch at one of our restaurants. Art on the Avenue has become a destination spot for many people throughout the valley. Local residents are pleased to have the show at their fingertips for that much-needed unique gift or the must-have piece of art or furniture for their home.

Each year I have added many new artists to the venue and this year is no exception. Many of my artists have been with the show since the beginning, and they look forward to every new season. I think that says a lot about how successful this event has been.

I have been on many committees in this town for countless years while we tried to make our town a destination spot. I am proud to say that with this event I have walked the talk and my weekly Thursday event has made Fountain Hills a premier place to visit.

I welcome our new retail and residents on the south side of the Avenue. This will be a real asset to our Town.

Interested in showing your art work contact judiyates@cox.net