The Performing Arts Initiative, the group that is working toward developing a 600-seat performing arts center in the Westcliff area of Hood River, has formed a business consortium to help in their effort. PAI board president Mark Steighner says part of the role of businesses within the project is to help bring financial support to the arts. In addition, being able to show a number of businesses in support of the project enhances efforts to acquire grants. The PAI’s business consortium has a meeting planned for Naked Winery in Hood River on February 6 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. that will include a presentation on what the consortium is all about. The initiative’s website is gorgeperformingarts.org.