St. George has been lampooned for its inability to dance. Now, no beer for Oktoberfest is added to the list. Really, no beer for Oktoberfest? Well, there was root beer on Main Street. Root beer in cans, on tap, and even root-beer-flavored shaved ice. However, the one month the beer and wine flowing in the Jazz Garden would seem most appropriate, it was nowhere to be found. What happened?
The Jazz Garden, with beer and wine, is truly pioneering new territory in southern Utah. Having no beer for Oktoberfest was a learning experience for organizers. Being one of the first venues to be able to offer alcohol at an event like this, there is not much experience to be pulled from. It is a learn-as-they-go proposition, and this time they had to learn quickly when the Ancestor Square board of directors made the decision not to open the courtyard based on the fact that the newly planted grass was not ready for traffic. This was a decision made to protect their investment in providing a beautiful setting for the future of the Jazz Garden and other events, but it set into motion a series of unforeseen and unfortunate events.
The success of George Streetfest, particularly the Jazz Garden, gave reason for Ancestor Square to upgrade the courtyard to accommodate this event and others more readily. Unfortunately, the project was not as quick as had been anticipated. The grass had not taken root well enough to have more than 500 guests walk and mingle upon it. On Monday, Sept. 28, only four days ahead of the Streetfest, a decision by the Ancestor Square Board to preserve the newly replaced sod was made. The October Jazz Garden would need to be relocated.
Being a trailblazer sometimes means learning by experience rather than by precedence. Moving the location for October to allow the grass to establish, while a big deal, did not seem to be insurmountable. Afterall, the DiFiore Center is just up the hill and has beautiful grounds spacious enough for an event this size or larger. The state makes alcohol permits for events very specific to location. Moving the location of the event requires application for a new public location permit with the State of Utah. This process requires seven business days, and Streetfest had four days. City officials did everything in their capacity to assist in facilitating the event’s ability to offer alcohol at the new location. However, they too, must comply with state law.
The DiFiore Center has a limited ability for serving alcohol at their location. In an eagerness to relocate the Jazz Garden to a location where music, dancing, food, and alcohol may be shared with guests, there was a last-minute venue change. It appeared the frantic search to put it all together and pull it off was a success. The DiFiore Center would host the Jazz Garden, and organizers started spreading the word of the venue change. An overlooked issue is that the limited alcohol serving at private events is for invited guests only. The Jazz Garden is a public event, and announcing the location change publicly meant the event would not be able to be modified and qualify as a private event. Somewhere between 5 and 5:30 p.m., organizers consulted with the city attorney and made the decision to protect the long-term opportunity to continue the Jazz Garden. Rather than risk the possibility of violating state law and losing the license to serve alcohol at future events, the decision was made to not serve alcohol. There would be no beer for Oktoberfest.
The overwhelming success of the Jazz Garden, demonstrated by attendance, has proven that the community is ready for this event and that it is wanted. The disappointment shared by those that have supported the event on an ongoing basis is real. It is clear that the series of unfortunate events is part of the learning curve in providing the opportunity for the community to have the option to participate in this type of event. The embarrassment from the fallout of the course of action taken by the Ancestor Square Board offers the occasion to see if the community will rally behind the organizers with their continued support.
“We envision a consistent monthly event that excites our community, celebrates our local artists, and draws tourism,” stated Melynda Thorpe, George Streetfest on Main presenter. “We have five months under our belt and are now looking at continuing into next year and beyond. There is an optimistic vision that we will be able to consistently enjoy events like this in our community. We are committed to establishing George as a permanent resident event as long as our community continues to support it.”
“We did not foresee the complication with landscaping not being ready at Ancestor Square,” shared Thorpe. “We appreciate the community’s support and understanding as we work to blaze new trails for nightlife events in southern Utah.”
Despite complications with the alcohol permit and temporary relocation of the Jazz Garden, the event, as a whole, was a success. Having no beer for Oktoberfest did not prevent a wonderful evening of music and mingling with friends. With the help of the DiFiore Center, the entertainment continued for those that chose to stay for the performances. Nic Chamberlain offered his one-man blues show. Russ and Rebecca Burt followed with their European gypsy jazz. West Coast Jazz Players finished the evening off with cool jazz and Chicago-style blues.
Many on Main Street were unaware that there was no beer for Oktoberfest at the Jazz Garden as they enjoyed the festivities, food, and music.
Tom Bennett opened the night. Ryan Groskreutz, George Streetfest talent booking agent, stated, “Tom Bennett is a perfect pick for blues month. His music offers an authentic sound and restores the lost art of storytelling. He is a true blues man.”
Katt’s Pajamas took the stage next. As Katt and the three sweaty guys that just want to groove took the stage, it became undeniable—Katt’s Pajamas comprises some of southern Utah’s grooviest musicians. Katt “Pajamas” Warden, Johnny “Boy” Beard, Tyler “McTaco” Sevy, and “Just” Jake Shepard have come together as Katt’s Pajamas to perform a mix of fresh new tasty jams for the masses.
Jordan Young headlined the show. Young demonstrated his honed craft as a roots musician. His music demonstrated a heavy influence of his desire to to keep “ol’ timey” music around and alive. Young’s music offers a reminiscent sound and feel of simpler times, cultured places, sounds, feelings, and foremost, a proud American heritage.
The event that offers something for everyone added a new feature this month: a DJ for youth and teens on Tabernacle. There was a terrific selection of food vendors offering delicious festival variety fare. In addition, food vendors competed in a bratwurst competition with customers determining the Oktoberfest 2015 Brat Champ. Vendors and activities filled the streets for participants to enjoy.
All of the fun at St. George’s biggest monthly event proves that with such a wide variety of offerings, a mishap in one area will not stop the event from being a success. Those that attend only for the Jazz Garden are huge supporters of the event and have made it clear they appreciate and desire for this event to be an ongoing success. While certainly disappointed in the situation, the majority of Jazz Garden attendees have expressed their understanding of the trials it takes to put this event on. Having no beer for Oktoberfest did not stop those interested in protecting and supporting the continuance of the Jazz Garden. They will be willing to help Streetfest move forward in bringing this type of community nightlife in the months ahead.
In addition to a magnificent lineup for November’s Streetfest, the grass in the newly remodeled Ancestor Square courtyard will be ready for the Jazz Garden’s return. And there will be beer!
CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story inaccurately included a statement questioning insurance coverage for George Streetfest. The Independent has since verified that the event had sufficient insurance coverage.
George, your positive perspective is always a welcome addition to all things St George. Thanks for your ability to cover the details in a manner that is easily understood.
Thank you, Steve.
There is much to love about our community and this is but one.
Melynda has worked her tail off to make this event fabulous. This was a very unfortunate bump in the road that was completely out of her hands. I was dismayed at the negative comments and lack of understanding surrounding the incident. Just wanted to add my support for her and the city. Overall this has been a much needed and well-planned event. I will continue to support it in the future, not just because the city needs it, but because it’s FUN! Thanks, Melynda, Amy, Jon Pike, and everyone else who makes this happen.
Agreed, Shirlee.
There are a lot of people at varying levels working really hard to bring this great event to the community. Judging by the turnout and support, it is a welcomed event.
Hopeful to see it find a permanent residence for many years to come.
Great positive article George about an unfortunate experience. Many people tried to save the event, and put in tons of work. Thank you all! I know that you all were all bummed the night of the party. Lets make sure that we all continue to support this great event. I never thought that in my life I would be having a wine with friends in Ancestor Square.
Very frustrating on the part of many.
Guaranteed, city officials and event organizers were more frustrated than participants–and, they wouldn’t even have been able to drink–and, some don’t even drink. Yet, they all wanted to be able to have it there. Onward and upwards. Live and learn. Another opportunity this weekend with the Jazz Garden at Live UNITED LIVE. It’s going to be a HUGE event with a variety of super music. All in your lifetime, Robyn. 😉
Sometimes unforeseeable events happen, but hopefully the public will continue to support George Fest as it is a big step for our city. I look forward to attending future events!
Absolutely!
The great track record of the Jazz Garden’s responsibility has opened up the opportunity to be open for another downtown weekend event. Huge kudos to organizers and participants in demonstrating to the community and officials this can and is a safe, friendly environment that many have been eagerly wishing for. 🙂
I like the positive story.
Thank you, Aaron.
There truly is much to be positive about.
Great community event.
George, you obviously did tons of homework for this story, and uncovered all of the factors that were at play on Friday night. Bless you for such a terrific accounting of the series of events, and for your supportive, positive perspective. This was definitely a learning experience for the committee, and for all of the powers that be. Looking forward to seeing the community supporting the Jazz Garden this weekend at Live United LIVE!, and next month at George Streetfest on Main!
Thank you, Marianne. Nobody had anything to hide. Everyone I spoke to in gathering the information was very open and forthcoming in sharing what happened. Refreshing and appreciated to know everyone involved, at every level, has all the right motivations for bringing this event to the community.
Live United LIVE is going to be HUGE, thanks in large part to all of your diligent efforts.
Thank you for the article!!! Even with the one hiccup, the rest of the evening was amazing!!! Thank you for making this positive! Things happen, we learn and move on! Thanks again!!
Precisely!
George Streetfest is anything but one dimensional. A wide variety of things to participate in for everyone.
Great article that articulates exactly what information in necessary to fully understand this unfortunate situation. But as we entertainers always say, The Show Must Go On! And it will. We have a wonderful opportunity to continue bringing amazing musicians to St George, not to mention showcase all our local artists. We have such a great town and this beer-free Oktober Fest will be remembered with fondness. Even without the beer and wine, we had a great crowd at the DiFiore Center, who enjoyed great jazz in a beautiful setting.
Next month the Jazz Garden will feature local musician, Dr. Glenn Webb on jazz vibraphones. Gonna be great!!!
Carlyle, y’all did amazing pulling everything together with the entertainment given the situation. However, with you, it is kind of expected. You always do a spectacular job with the entertainment in the Jazz Garden. I have no idea how you get some of the folks you do. World class musicians, right here, every month.
I am looking forward to seeing that vibraphone in action.
Great Article George! As far as I’m aware, it’s been less than a year since the City started offering Beer & Wine Garden permits. Typically a change in location, while not considered to be a big deal for most people, becomes very complicated with the various entities that provide oversight, licensing and Insurance. My involvement with this Saturday’s “Live United Live, Camping World, United Way Music Festival Benefit” provided me with an opportunity to see the great working relationship and mutual respect that exists with Emcee Productions and The City Council. Emcee was able to get the City Council’s approval for the Jazz, Beer and Wine Garden (in a short amount of time) that will be held this Saturday in the parking lot of One Hot Grill (Tabernacle and Main St). There will be another opportunity for Beer, Wine and Music to be enjoyed during the month of October in St George!
I believe you are correct, Gordon. I imagine there will be further lessons to learn and trials to overcome. It is reassuring to know we have some magnificent people with terrific intentions, attitudes, and abilities in adjusting when/where needed–you being among them. I appreciate your efforts in all you have done in bringing music throughout the area on a consistent basis. Your influence has certainly assisted the coming together for Live United LIVE in delivering a tremendous event.
George, your article thoughtfully and in an informed way addresses the issue. The city of St. George is in no way way responsible for this snafu. If anything they have been committed to supporting the jazz garden We have to move forward! Mistakes were made! I blame Ancestor Square for deciding to re-sod at the busiest time of year. But it’s done, so let’s look forward to the party this coming Saturday night with Howard Jones and Georgefest next November. If you whine and complain and choose to not participate in the upcoming celebrations then you become part of the problem. Please let’s support the City in their efforts to provide progressive entertainment for all of us. I appreciate them. We will get this figured out. The state of Utah does not make it easy
Thank you, June.
Agreed, the city has been overwhelmingly supportive of this event.
Looking forward to one of your chilled beers at the next Jazz Garden.
Thanks so much for the great article and coverage. I was blown away by how everything was handled. Amy and Melynda handled a crazy snafu with grace and humor. We all have difficult situations in our lives that throw us. These things happen and will soon be forgotten. St George has so many amazing things happening and how exciting it is to be part of the growth. We felt proud to be part of the First Friday and highlighting the amazing music and entertainment here at the center. I’m sure next month’s First Friday will be amazing and will continue to grow.
You’re welcome, Cindy.
I completely agree! Amy and Melynda and their army are amazing.
Thank you and Ernie for stepping up and helping out. I love the DiFiore Center–all it stands for, and all it brings to the community. You two are saints in my book. Love you tons!
George, I appreciate the clarity and explanation you have taken the time to provide about Friday. Your attention to the facts and details is important to me. Like many, I have been delighted at the number of people turning out each month for this new kind of event in southern Utah. This is an event that requires a great deal of planning, collaboration, and teamwork. I am grateful to our city leaders for entrusting the Downtown Merchants Group and Emceesquare Media to establish a nightlife event of this kind in our community. I want to be clear that the City has always been supportive. In my experience, City workers and leaders have been vision-minded, solution-minded, cooperative, supportive, available, committed, invested, willing and eager to see the Streetfest succeed. On many occasions, City teams have met event organizers on Main Street to walk through event details and possible scenarios that might require additional planning or attention. I appreciate Mayor Jon Pike who often expresses his enthusiasm at seeing the community together, dancing, and having fun. He is has been willing to don a bow tie, bowler hat and mustache, and makes himself available to participate in the stage program each month. Most importantly, he has stood at my side. I appreciate the improvements of the Ancestor Square Advisory Board to the courtyard and am hoping for a guarantee that it will be ready for the return of the Jazz Garden Nov. 6. Either way, we will have a contingency plan in place so the community may continue to support this history-making, outdoor, southern Utah event. Thank you to all who have been patient, supportive, and willing to participate as we pioneer a new kind of event in our community. Thank you to those who ask hard questions and help the event learn and grow. There will be bumps – such is the nature of something worth keeping. I have always said, the success of George Streetfest lies within its community. My goal has been to assist in establishing a consistent, safe, fun, and always fresh nightlife event that offers something for everyone in Historic Downtown. George is designed to celebrate the art, culture and history of our community. My hope is that you will continue to attend, come if you have never been, bring or meet family and friends, dance, laugh, enjoy being outdoors. I have great hope for the longevity of George Streetfest. In all of our difference and diversity, may we continue savor the opportunity to gather together every first Friday on Main Street as one in friendship, and in community.
Melynda, thank you for taking the time to comment and share. Thank you for all you do to bring this event to the community. I get to hear from a lot of people each month–and you have a winner with George Streetfest.
I also want to thank you for being so willing to share with the utmost transparency on the details of what happened. I spoke with several people, at all sorts of levels, in gathering the information for this article. Everyone was very open and honest in what happened and eager to do everything they can to learn and grow from the experience.
Also, EVERY SINGLE person I interviewed and spoke with had the most positive comments you can imagine about all you and your team have done, did do, and continue to do. Keep up the excellent work.
It would have bee nice if the organizers had the courtesy to have a volunteer posted at Ancestor’s Square to explain things to the public about the location change and no alcohol instead of leaving it up to the farmer’s market vendors who were just as confused as everyone else there that night. The no alcohol snafu should have been announced publicly prior to the event as well when the location change was announced.
I know this article is a bit old, but I just wanted to say I so appreciate an explanation that makes sense and is obviously coming from the heart.
I wanted to also say, I had not heard of First Friday Street Fest until a week before this event? I dont recieve the newspaper but rely on the internet for local news. Im not sure why I havent heard anything about it before now. I certainly will support all of the upcoming events. It is something that St. George has needed for a long time now. Im thrilled to know it has been contracted for 12 months. I look forward to reading more about all the events that are being planned.
I know this article is a bit old, but I just wanted to say I so appreciate an explanation that makes sense and is obviously coming from the heart.
I wanted to also say, I had not heard of First Friday Street Fest until a week before this event? I dont recieve the newspaper but rely on the internet for local news. Im not sure why I havent heard anything about it before now. I certainly will support all of the upcoming events. It is something that St. George has needed for a long time now. Im thrilled to know it has been contracted for 12 months. I look forward to reading more about all the events that are being planned.