Author: Sam Richard

Sam Richard

Sam likes to think of himself as Burton Barr Central Library — full of information you don't want, or at the very least, didn't know you needed until you heard it. Seriously, though, once you get past the awkward lingering smell of too many forgotten showers, the library shows its true beauty. And, much like the architectural masterpiece, Sam's chiseled specimen is a thing of beauty. But, not chiseled in the conventional sense, no. Sam is crafted in the exact shape of the Beacon of Books — with a slight bulge in the middle. And, whether or not you're looking for a conversation about urban governance, the state of professional sports media or the history of the modern folk music movement, you can be sure to find the information you need with Sam — or at Burton Barr. Sam is the five-story mind behind The Bearded Truth, which you can find here on DPJ Monday afternoons. He lives in the heart of the city with his beautiful wife, Kim.


March Is Phoenix Arts Month!

March 3, 2009 | By

Every weekend during the month of March, arts events will be hosted in downtown Phoenix and surrounding neighborhoods, along with events, exhibitions, and performances on other days throughout the month. In recognition of the local arts community and these public festivals, Mayor Phil Gordon has proclaimed March as “Phoenix Arts Month” and invites everyone to attend and celebrate.

International Women’s Day Luncheon

March 2, 2009 | By

Celebrate International Women’s Day with Ann Meyers Drysdale, General Manager for the World-Champion Phoenix Mercury and basketball Hall-of-Famer. The luncheon will take place from 12PM – 1:30PM at the South Building of the Phoenix Convention Center. Tickets are $75 ($45 for students and seniors).

Mini Medical School

March 2, 2009 | By

The University of Arizona Medical School is offering a three-week program that is based off the curriculum of the full-length program taught at the campus in the heart of Downtown Phoenix.

1130 Restauraunt Review

March 2, 2009 | By

1130 occupies a prime spot in the Arizona Center, located roughly halfway between the Van Buren / Central Avenue (northbound) and Van Buren / 1st Avenue (southbound) stations and the 3rd St. / Washington (westbound) and the 3rd St. / Jefferson (eastbound) stations. It’s at the east end near the parking garage and sees a lot of pedestrian traffic. The restaurant has a stylish look both inside and outside. Near the main entrance, there are couches and lounge-style seating. Inside, a bar divides two different dining rooms. There’s additional outdoor seating on a L-shaped patio. The furnishings are contemporary and brick and wood interiors keep the place looking current.

Downtown Phoenix: “Arizona’s Urban Heart”

March 2, 2009 | By

Following the lead of other major cities, Phoenix is looking to establish its own brand, the same promotional strategy that can launch a successful coffee chain or compact car. Las Vegas is known as an adult playground. Austin is known as a live-music destination. Phoenix hopes to similarly set itself apart.

U2: A Digital Dome Experience

March 2, 2009 | By

“U2” is the first ever full-dome production featuring U2’s timeless classics and modern hits, set to lighting and animation effects using the latest is CGI and laser technology.

Grandiose Brings “Street Style” Downtown

February 27, 2009 | By

Grandiose, a great downtown boutique, was recently featured in an ABC 15 article. Be sure to stop by and support Nelson and Andrew!

Happy Birthday, Public Market!

February 27, 2009 | By

Celebrate growth with the Downtown Phoenix Public Market as they mark their fourth anniversary on Saturday, February 28th. This market is more than just a Farmer’s Market. It is a place to gather, eat, enjoy music, and shop for great food and crafts.

Phoenix Symphony Releases A New CD

February 27, 2009 | By

Music lovers can bring the Phoenix Symphony into their cars and living rooms next month, when the CD of its program “Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio” debuts on the Naxos label.

The Stiletto Formal @ The Modified

February 26, 2009 | By

Looking for some entertainment this weekend? Besides the film festival up in Sedona, the WorldFEST Beer Festival at Margaret T. Hance Park, and the general revelry that goes on here in Downtown Phoenix, be sure to check out the great show happening on Sunday night at The Modified: