(Published by Tucson Weekly on June 18, 2009.)
Former Downtown Tucsonan employees Dave Olsen and Jamie Manser (both former Tucson Weekly employees) have teamed up to begin publication of Zócalo, a magazine dedicated to arts and entertainment.
“Our goal is to be a family-friendly publication that highlights the town’s thriving arts, music and entertainment offerings,” said Manser via e-mail. “There is a lot going on in this burg, and we’d like to be what people pick up for a snapshot of monthly activities, along with coverage of local news and features.”
Zócalo‘s first “summer” issue recently hit the streets. A monthly printing cycle is slated to begin in September.
“It is with optimism in the strength of Tucson’s populace that we embark on this endeavor. We are taking the summer to introduce the publication to the community and have received great feedback thus far,” e-mailed Manser. “Starting an independent publication in this economy is certainly a challenge, but we are both known for hard work and tenacity. Between us and our contributors, we collectively wear the many hats it takes to publish a magazine — which includes design, writing, editing, photography, circulation and advertising sales.”
Whereas the Downtown Tucsonan garners a subsidy from the Downtown Tucson Partnership, Zócalo‘s survival will hinge on a traditional private advertising model. Zócalo is also in the process of creating a Web site, ZocaloTucson.com, “that will feature daily updates and an online calendar of local happenings.” As of press time, the site remained in its infant stages.
“Our passion for publishing has always been based on promoting the Old Pueblo’s amazing artists and fabulous events — specifically those in the urban area,” said Manser.
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