Calvin C. Goode's nephew Kerry Goode continues family’s legacy of public service

Black History Month

Kerry Goode continues family’s legacy of public service

(Courtesy city of Phoenix)

Anthony “Kerry” Goode, a senior user technology specialist at the Phoenix Convention Center, speaks in a city of Phoenix video in front of a mural of 11 influential community leaders from the Eastlake Park area, including Goode’s uncle, Calvin Goode (center in glasses) at the Eastlake Park Community Center at 16th and Jefferson streets.

Posted Thursday, February 26, 2026 3:00 pm. 

(The Historical League honored Calvin C. Goode as 2003 Arizona Historymaker)

The Phoenix Convention Center is stepping into 2026 with a series of significant improvements designed to elevate the guest experience and keep the facility looking fresh.

From refreshed interiors to cutting-edge technology, the upgrades span multiple levels and areas of the facility. Visitors will notice new furniture throughout the pre-function lobbies and brand-new carpet installations across key spaces, including the Lower Level, West Building 200 and 300 levels, and the West Building Arcade. Additional carpet installations for the North Building 100 and 200 levels are scheduled for spring 2026.

“We are committed to constantly improving our facility,” stated Assistant Director Bob Fingerman in a news release. “We want every attendee to feel the quality and care that goes into maintaining our incredible venue.”

Other enhancements include new exterior trash cans, AV upgrades and LED display walls in the Lower Level, which will provide dynamic visual capabilities for events. Performance spaces are also getting a boost with new stages for meetings and entertainment, along with assembly tables, banquet tables and a new dance floor to accommodate a variety of event formats.

Accessibility remains a priority, with the installation of a wheelchair lift, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the venue’s offerings.

One of the most striking additions will be exterior uplighting on Third Street, set for installation in February and March. This feature will allow the Phoenix Convention Center to illuminate its exterior walls and windows with an array of vibrant colors, creating a striking presence in downtown Phoenix.

“This uplighting project is going to transform the way people see the Convention Center at night,” Fingerman stated. “It’s not just functional — it’s a statement piece for us. We want to be able to highlight our beautiful facility even after the sun goes down.”

The Phoenix Convention Center spent roughly $5 million for these projects, highlighting the facility’s prioritization of maintaining the venue’s reputation as a premier destination for meetings and events. 

https://www.yourvalley.net/stories/kerry-goode-continues-familys-legacy-of-public-service,664911

Winners of annual 3rd grade postcard contest announced

Congrats to our 21 Finalists for the 2026 Postcard Contest! Dr. Kristen Rex announced them. Historical League is a proud supporter of this program.

A big thank you to all the students and teachers who participated! These talented young artists were selected for their outstanding creativity and thoughtful designs celebrating Arizona's history and the 5 C's.

Please note: The winners will be announced on Friday once all votes have been finalized!

Prizes:

- A hosted Pizza Party (courtesy of the Historical League)

- A swag bag filled with art supplies and Arizona Historical Society goodies

- Their winning design is professionally printed on postcards available for purchase at any Arizona Historical Society Museum.

The 21 finalist designs were proudly showcased at both the Arizona History Museum and the Arizona Heritage Center for Statehood Day on Saturday, February 14. Visitors had the opportunity to view the artwork and cast their votes for their favorite.

In addition to public voting, judging panels from the Tempe Historical League, the Arizona Historical Society, and the K12 Coalition carefully reviewed each finalist submission.

Thank you again for all the participating students, teachers, families, and community partners who made this year's contest such a success. We look forward to announcing the winners soon! Here are some of the designs.