By Bob Hembree
Lake Powell Chronicle

PAGE – A diverse group of local creatives is steadily gaining ground in size and influence. The alliance has close to 50 members and is growing rapidly.

Along with the growth in numbers, they’re growing in influence. Alliance representatives are meeting regularly with city officials. Last week they met with City Manager Darren Coldwell and leaders from multiple departments to discuss possible vendor and event locations within Page. They visited several potential sites, including John C. Page Memorial Park, and discussed the pros and cons of each.

Mayor Levi Tappan has also expressed strong support, saying this is something he’s wanted for some time. He attended one of the groups meetings in January. Economic Development Coordinator Gregg Martinez attended several meetings offering advice and encouragement. The regular meetings have each had some of Page’s most influential people in attendance, demonstrating the potential the group has in shaping the future of Page.

At the most recent meeting, they announced an official name was reserved with the Arizona Corporation Commission. They are forming a nonprofit corporation. Part of this incorporating process is deciding who will hold the required offices. The group, by show of hands, chose Maschelle Zia as president.

Zia has spearheaded the venture; she’s led and kept group meetings on track and focused. Melissa Glover will serve as vice president. Kelly Wagner volunteered to take the secretary job and was welcomed with a unanimous vote. Jim Hickman agreed to act as interim treasurer, which was also confirmed by vote.

After a few weeks of suggestions, drafts and adjustments, the group finalized a mission statement:
“Grand Circle Arts is an alliance whose collaborative efforts serve to educate youth; bring unity to the region; provide resources for local artists to perform, display, teach and share their work; as well as support the cultural and economic growth of Page and surrounding areas.”
Grand Circle Arts Alliance’s next step is to choose board members.

In addition to local artists and musicians having a place to sell their work, they’re planning art education workshops, live music and food trucks. They’re also taking steps to ally with other arts-oriented groups and seeking support from local businesses and organizations.

Grand Circle Arts meets every other Wednesday at either the library or Community Center. For more information, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/grandcirclearts/