Business View Magazine | November 2020

294 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2020 population, we believe, our downtown is appealing with multi-family projects that are modern and new, in walking distance to art galleries, unique restaurants, and wine bars. This unique environment, which is in close proximity to natural beauty and outdoor recreation, is one that the younger generation will find attractive and desirable. “ Another attraction that brings the young and young-at-heart to Fountain Hills is the nearby We-Ko-Pa Casino – a new state-of-the art gaming, entertainment, and dining complex that opened at the end of October to replace the Fort McDowell Casino. The 244,000 square foot facility has an expanded casino area with a garden court and new high-end dining options. Fountain Hills has a wealth of attributes that add to its popularity. Smith highlights, “I think Fountain Hills is a very unique, small-town community within a major metro area that offers spectacular views of the valley with quick access to many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking and golf. The area also has a very vibrant and rich art scene with some major art festivals.” For example, Fountain Hills Artists’ Gallery is one of many artist-owned cooperative galleries showcasing the fantastic works of over forty artists from throughout the Fountain Hills area working in a variety of mixed media. Note that this gallery is operated on a daily basis by the artists, themselves, and allows visitors to meet the innovative creators of artworks on display. Some of the mediums on display are ceramics, acrylics, fiber art, jewelry, glass, photography, sculptures, and oil paintings. Wesley chimes in with his own insights: “Our tightly knit, small community offers many recreational activities and values its hiking trails and opportunities for biking. Also, the mountains on the west of the town screen us from the rest of the metro area. The town encourages the use of low impact lighting, which contributes to its recognition as one of approximately 30 Dark Sky communities in the world. An International