November 7, 2019

VETERANS DAY HOLIDAY
HQ offices at 119 W. Main will be open
Monday, November 11th.

DOWNTOWN FARMINGTON REVITALIZATION - COMPLETE STREETS

The Mayor's Table: Construction Update video:

Mayor Duckett and Public Works Director David Sypher provide an update on road construction on this episode of The Mayor's Table. They explain how road surface conditions are evaluated and scheduled for maintenance, where to find information on all the enhancement projects around the city, public communication efforts and how they are maximizing your tax dollars. They talk about the bike lane connectivity plan, changes in lane striping, safety and levels of service. Enjoy!

Complete Streets Construction Update:

This large infrastructure construction project design is complete and plans can be found at HQ at 119 W. Main.

The bid was published on October 20th, 2019 and will be open for bidding for about 30 days.
The bid opening is November 19th, 2019.
We are on track to give a Notice to Proceed for January 6, 2020.
Substantial Completion by November 1, 2020.

Important to remember:

Pedestrian access will be maintained to the extent possible.
We will announce the sequence of construction once determined.
All the elements of the design have been analyzed by the foremost authorities through extensive public and stakeholders input over several years.
The project includes many safety features for pedestrians and vehicles.
All public parking lots are FREE and open and accessible during construction.

Would you like to learn more about our efforts to revitalize the downtown area? Please visit the Complete Streets Headquarters at 119 W. Main, the Main Street Complete Streets website or the Downtown Farmington website.

2019 Construction Season Update:

There are no active roadwork construction projects in the area.

Should you have any questions regarding this project, road closures, or street restrictions, please do not hesitate to call Public Works Dept at 505-599-1308 or visit http://www.fmtn.org/633/Projects-and-Construction for all the latest on the City's enhancements.

Some of the material samples and plant selections for the Downtown Farmington Revitalization - Complete Streets project

PUBLIC SAFETY

The park ranger program continues to expand their efforts in community outreach. Recently our park rangers participated in a beautification project in Breezeway Plaza, located in the 100 block of E. Main St. in Downtown Farmington.

Park Rangers help out improvement Breezeway Plaza

DOWNTOWN EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

Jazz Jam - Civic Center, 7pm-9pm. Every Wednesday evening beginning in October the weekly Jazz Jam's will be held at the Civic Center. This is a FREE event. See schedule below for theme nights. THIS IS A JOLT WORTHY EVENT!
Giving Thanks for Our Veterans - Farmington Indian Center, November 8, 2019, 11am-1pm. The Farmington Indian Center located at 100 W. Elm will host this annual dinner to honor, thank and recognize all veterans and their families for their service to our great country at the Farmington Indian Center.
Ronny Cox - Civic Center, November 8 & 9, 2019 - Join us on November 8th at the Farmington Civic Center to view “Deliverance” with Cox and hear him speak on his experiences filming on location then return the next day to listen to his music and life stories. VOTED A JOLT WORTHY EVENT!
Discovering Local Artists - Casa Blanca Inn, November 14, 2019, 5:30pm-8:30pm. Come out to Casa Blanca located at 505 E. La Plata to see some of the best artists in fashion, jewelry, paintings, portraits and Native American fashion. The staff of the Casa Blanca Inn and Suites promises great food, great fun, great art and a great way to kick off the holiday season! VOTED A JOLT WORTHY EVENT!
Blue Note Records 80th Birthday Celebration - Civic Center, November 15, 2019, 7:30pm-9pm. This tour will be celebrating Blue Note's 80th Anniversary. Under the watchful eye of its president, Don Was, they will be presenting three new artists in a spectacular celebration of the label and Jazz Music today. Only Blue Note Records, with their unique brand of cool, could assemble such a dynamic evening of talent and music!
Two Hearts Wedding Expo - Civic Center, November 16, 2019 12pm-3pm. Plan your wedding in a day! The Two Hearts Wedding Expo features dozens of local exhibitors. There will be representatives from every size and category of wedding business, from large department stores to local specialty shops. ? IT’S ALL HERE! Fashion, music, tastings, venues and prizes. ? EXPERT ADVICE from the area’s top wedding professionals. ? SAVE TIME by seeing everything that you will need for your wedding under one roof. ? SAVE ON COST with discounts and offers especially for show attendees.
Turkey Trot and Gobble Wobble - Orchard Park, November 23, 2019, 9am-11am. Join Farmington families for this annual special holiday event! Sign up for the 5K Turkey Trot, 2 Mile Gobble Wobble or just come for the food and fun. This is a short road closure, see public notice for details.
Music of the Night - A Musical Adventure - Civic Center, November 23, 2019, 7:30pm-9pm. John D. Smitherman most recently played the role of Raoul in the world premiere of the new musical Return of the Phantom. He has performed the role of Jean Valjean in Les Miserables in 2014 and 2015 to become part of the elite group that can say they have done "The Big Three" referring to the top three leading man roles in musical theatre; Jekyll & Hyde, Jean Valjean, as well as the Phantom. He has performed well over 100 different roles on the professional opera and theatre stages. VOTED A JOLT WORTHY EVENT!
Dance Night - Civic Center, November 29, 2019, 7pm-11pm. Dance the night away at the Farmington Civic Center with Stillwater Band.
Small Business Saturday - Downtown, November 30, 2019. All day take part in the Small Business Saturday movement. Contact Michael at 599-8442 if you will be a participating business.
Holiday Art Walk & Miracle on Main Street - Downtown, November 30, 2019, 5pm-9pm. VOTED A JOLT WORTHY EVENT! Celebrate the holiday season, local artisans and local small businesses at the annual Holiday Art Walk!
Festival of Trees - Civic Center, December 4 thru 7, 2019. Explore a winter wonderland amidst an indoor forest of artfully decorated Christmas trees at the annual Festival of Trees.
Christmas Parade - Downtown, December 5, 2019, 5:30pm-6:30pm. Jump start the holiday season with Farmington’s annual Christmas parade. Bundle up for this evening parade of lights, through Historic Downtown Farmington, along Main Street. The 2019 theme is "A Magical Christmas".
Riverglo - Berg Park, December 6, 2019, 6pm-8pm. Discover Farmington's holiday spirit along the Animas River! Luminarias, carolers and a live nativity transform the river walk trails and Berg Park for this holiday celebration.
Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker - Civic Center, December 11, 2019 at 7pm. This Christmas give your family the gift of Moscow Ballet’s Gift of Christmas Great Russian Nutcracker tour! Step into a simpler time filled with sweet dreams and Christmas magic. With world-class artists, over 200 dazzling costumes, stunning sets, towering puppets and soaring birds, don’t miss your chance to ring in the holidays with this acclaimed Christmas extravaganza. The New York Times, “Hot Ticket!” Celebrate the cherished holiday tradition and relive the dream with Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Get tickets for the whole family now!
A Christmas Carol - Civic Center, December 14, 2019, 7:30pm-9:30pm. A powerful story of redemption, Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, has enchanted audiences the world over with its simple message of Holiday joy. Ebenezer Scrooge, that most unrepentant and miserly of fellows, is made to see the light as he survives a merciless battery of revelations by the ghosts of his own life: Jacob Marley and the Christmas Spirits of Past, Present, and Future.
Reindeer Romp & North Pole Stroll - Orchard Park, December 21, 2019, 4pm-6:30pm. Farmington gets holiday ready with the Reindeer Romp 5K and the 2 mile North Pole Stroll! This family friendly holiday event is so much more than a Fun Run. This is a short road closure, see public notice for details.
M-PACT - Civic Center, December 22, 2019, 7:30pm-9:30pm. Hailed as “one of the best pop-jazz vocal groups in the world” by the San Francisco Chronicle, M-PACT is respected worldwide as a cutting edge trailblazer in the realm of vocal music. Emerging from an age of auto-tune and overproduction, this Los Angeles-based ensemble has cultivated a new generation of ears hungry for the fresh, raw power of nature’s “first instrument” – the human voice. Around the globe, audiences are mesmerized by the thrill of m-pact’s vocal acrobatics, innovative orchestrations, and commanding yet authentic stage presence.

For more information on Downtown Events:

Pick up your copy of the Merchant's Guide to Downtown Events from Michael at HQ at 119 W. Main. This a great resource for merchants, it has plenty of ideas on how to make the most of downtown events. Included in this guide are the upcoming 2019 event dates for downtown.

More information on Events at the Civic Center:

The Farmington Civic Center has an outstanding selection of upcoming shows. Don't miss out, be sure to add these dates to your calendar and purchase your tickets early. See website for full list of events. Season and single show tickets are available now, call 505-599-1148 for details!

Do you have an event you want to tell the 4 Corners about? Tell the FCVB

Submit your event to the Farmington Convention & Visitor Bureau's calendar:
https://farmingtonnm.org/events/submit-an-event This is best and most extensive calendar in the region. Send in your event soon to be considered for next months' Jolt-Worthy events.

Did you know? Memberships to the FCVB start at $50/year. This is a great way to get your business listed on one of the top performing websites in our community.

AND.....

Want to know the benefits of being a member of the Chamber of Commerce?

100 W. Broadway | 505-325-0279 | chamber@gofarmington.com | www.gofarmington.com

In the News!

The Daily Times article on the new park ranger program. The sixth ranger has been hired and is in training.

The City of Farmington anticipates the return of commercial jet service summer of 2020. Crews started construction on September 30th to upgrade the runway to meet federal guidelines for commercial air service.

In case you missed it!

Electrical Vehicle Charger coming to Downtown! The City Council approved up to five public dual port electrical vehicle (EV) charging stations to be installed around town, one is to be located in the downtown area.

WELCOME TO DOWNTOWN!

Newest shop to open in downtown will be........ Molly Quin Co.! Opening in December at 201 W. Main at the corner of Main and Allen. Molly Quinn Co. is a locally owned small family business. We make whimsical home decor, accent pieces, and gifts right here in Farmington, NM. What started as a creative outlet after the birth of our first daughter, who also happens to be the company’s namesake, has blossomed into something great and we cannot wait to expand our online business and open our brick and mortar doors!

Recently Blush Esthetic Studio opened at 214 W. Main.
Blush Esthetic Studio is a local business located in downtown Farmington, NM. Providing you the “Facial Bar Concept”, a trendy method to experience skin care. Affordable beauty at your convenience. We focused on many skin types and concerns. Offering express targeting facial treatments, European facials, microdermabrasion and dermaplaning. Other services are provided such as makeup applications, makeup classes, brow tints, waxing, threading and lash lifts. We believe true beauty comes from within, and is why we have a doTERRA Wellness Advocate to help you with any basic wellness concerns while utilizing essential oils to their full benefit. Our mission is to provide a positive difference in people's lives by providing outstanding service, advice, and quality products.

Communications, Marketing and Public Relations

The City, the MainStreet program, and other partners use many avenues to promote our downtown; the collective business community, events and activities. We will continue these efforts between now and start of construction. This is a short list of those avenues.

Press Releases
Mayor's Table videos
Open Houses
Advertising - ex: banners, window signage and flyers
Downtown Newsletter
Web Map
Public Service Announcements
Community Calendars
Social media
Radio
Websites
Event Booths
Speaking Engagements

During construction, we will increase our efforts with specific ideas related to the construction phase. While we believe that we have a well rounded strategy to market and promote downtown, suggestions are always welcome.

That being said...

We highly encourage downtown merchants to increase their efforts in marketing as well. If you need guidance on creating your own marketing plan, have suggestions or questions, please contact the Complete Street Headquarters at 599-8442.

SMALL BUSINESS RESOURCES

Dear Downtown Business Owner,

We are on track to break ground in January 2020. We have been enjoying the reports of increases in sales volumes and foot traffic. We hope that you are taking advantage of this and "putting the wood in the shed" to minimize the impact of the construction.

Sincerely, the MainStreet project team

Holiday Marketing Tips!

START HERE: Construction Survival Guide - pick up this handy guide at HQ on ideas before, during, and after construction. Are you ready?

WHILE YOU ARE THERE: pick up a copy of The Merchant's Guide to Downtown Events - this a great resource for merchants, it has plenty of ideas on how to make the most of downtown events. Included in this guide are the upcoming 2019 event dates.

NEXT: Nov 30 is the big day! Prepare your small business for Small Business Saturday with customizable marketing materials at AmericanExpress.

THEN: Grow with Google has small business support with tools, mobile apps, livestreams, and more. Get ideas on promoting your business online.

First: create or access your free business profile
Next: review store hours and update for holiday hours especially for November 30th, Small Business Saturday
Next: use camera to take photos of your products and store interior, publish a post, and create a special offer. Promote your product early!
Try a Smart Campaign with Google Ads.
Grow your email list! Most customer and the best customers are repeat customers!

DID YOU KNOW?
78% of shoppers search for you online BEFORE ever going to the store.
90% of customers will visit a business with photos on their search page!
Are you losing customers because they can't find you or your product?

Deluxe - Their website contains many small business resources on topics like Marketing, Financials, Starting a Business, eBooks, Videos, and Case Studies.
Flip This Town - Flip This Town started as a book by downtown revitalization expert Ron Drake, and has now transformed into a movement that is sweeping communities across the country. Join Ron Drake and his partner, Main Street Manager Kristi Trevarrow as they set out to restore the heart of America, one downtown at a time.
The Small Business Revolution - Small Business Revolution tells stories of America's most inspiring small businesses, using photography, film and written word. Championed by Deluxe (see above). Follow their Facebook page and website for free small business advice, inspiration, and information. Season 4 is now streaming!
HubSpot - a free marketing blog that is very informative and they even offer free webinars on a variety of subjects including social media, marketing, sales, and business development. They also have downloadable PDFs that you can read at your own pace.
Small Business Development Center @ San Juan College - Counselors at the SBDC assist small business in a variety of forms with confidential one-on-one consulting, low cost training in a variety of subjects, technical assistance, and we can assist your company in networking with other local companies to achieve your goals.
SnapRetail - Complete online marketing solution for independent retailers. It’s website, email and social wrapped up in one powerfully simple tool – so you can plan, execute and track all of your marketing activities. Affordable solution that helps you build your brand and sales through meaningful, consistent customer communication.
Farmington Public Library - check with the reference librarian because with just a library card you can access online databases, including the Business and Finance section with templates, guides, and other tools to help you start, finance, and manage your small business. Need a special certification, they have access to that online course too! Call 505-599-1270 for more information on obtaining a library card and accessing the online databases.
Farmington Chamber of Commerce - 'Connecting Commerce to Community' and they work hard at it. It consists of a volunteer association of business people who coordinate efforts of commerce, industry and professions to maintain a healthy business in our community. The chamber helps to promote a better understanding of private enterprise. We are financed by membership investments and are open to any business deciding to invest in the betterment of the community. The Farmington Chamber of Commerce Inc. is organized for the purpose of serving and advancing the civic and business interest of the City of Farmington and the Four Corners region.

This is a conceptual drawing of the Breezeway Plaza located between Lloyd's Carpets and M&M Tax in the 200 block of E. Main. The project consists of planters and festival lights to create a welcoming pass thru or paseo to and from the Orchard Avenue parking lot and the Main Street corridor.

Downtown Farmington Awarded Grant Funds

NM Clean & Beautiful awarded the City of Farmington with $9,000 for recycling receptacles in the downtown area.

City of Farmington/Downtown Farmington: A MainStreet Project has been selected to receive a grant of $5,000 through the AARP Community Challenge for beautification of Breezeway Plaza. See concept above.

Downtown Farmington: A MainStreet project has applied to the New Mexico MainStreet program and received grant money from the New Mexico Resiliency Alliance in the amount of $7,000 toward a pocket park behind 305 & 307 W. Main, named the Hidden Garden. Conceptual plans can be found at HQ. Look for this new development coming soon!

New Mexico MainStreet Program:

Downtown Farmington: A MainStreet Project is part of the New Mexico MainStreet Program (NMMS). New Mexico MainStreet works throughout the state and partners with designated organizations to create a strong economic business climate while preserving cultural and historic resources. https://www.nmmainstreet.org/

The NMMS uses a Four Point Approach® to implement the goals and support the vision to transform downtown districts. These four areas are Organization, Design, Promotion, and Economic Vitality.

Do you have an idea for economic growth that qualifies for this program? Find out by contacting Michael Bulloch, NMMS Director, at 505-599-8442.

The HeART of Farmington Arts and Cultural District (ACD):

Want to get involved? You do not need to be a committee member to be involved or to attend the meetings. Contact Michael Bulloch at 505-599-8442.

Art in the Alley:

UPDATE: The 'living mural' behind GC Harvest and ArrowSoul Trading evolves in November, the Ivan Lee mural behind HQ is complete, the Luke Paul mural behind The Chile Pod is in progress, the Michael Billy mural behind The Arc is in progress, and the Christy Clugston mural on the side of Sherwin Williams is complete.

Muralist Ivan Lee completes his mural behind Complete Streets Headquarters.

Muralist Christy Clugston with the help of her husband create a mural on the side of Sherwin Williams building on N. Wall Avenue

Join the Movement

If you are looking to get involved in the exciting things happening in Farmington, be sure to attend the monthly Farmington Action Team Meetings! This is an excellent opportunity to network, help local causes or find help for your event or cause.

November 12, 2019
Action Team Meeting
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Museum of Navajo Art & Culture
301 W. Main Street

Stakeholder meetings:

Next meeting will be Monday, November 11, 2019 at 9am.*

Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) meetings:

Tuesday, November 19th, 2019 at 4pm.*

*All meetings are held at HQ at 119 W. Main unless otherwise noted. Public is encouraged to attend.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to volunteer are available. This is a way to help out along side your fellow downtown neighbor. Contact Michael for more information.

Help out artists with upcoming mural installations.
Labor for future grant funded projects in the downtown area. See grant projects list above.
Our local non-profits can always use a hand! Contact Hustle Kindness Headquarters or The ARC of San Juan County.
Mayor's Volunteer Program - an opportunity to put your knowledge, talent, and energy toward improving the quality of life in our community.

Our Goal:

The purpose of this newsletter is to be transparent and open about our plans for this large-scale infrastructure investment with the downtown stakeholders. We recognize the potential for economic growth that could result from a project of this magnitude, but also the challenges that come. Additional details on any of the above referenced items are on file at HQ at 119 W. Main or on our website. Feedback is always welcome and participation is always encouraged!

Contact Us:

Michael Bulloch
Downtown Coordinator & Executive Director for MainStreet Program and Arts & Cultural District

119 W. Main Street
505-599-8442 office
505-716-6057 cell
mbulloch@fmtn.org

Sherry M. Roach
Project Coordinator
119 W. Main Street
505-599-8443 office
505-427-1512 cell
shroach@fmtn.org