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FEBRUARY 2010
Newly elected members of Downtown San Angelo Board of Directors
Board member Brenda Gunter Citizen of the Year
Susan Morris receives two honors
Demolition commences - Renewal imminent
Tom Green County Library nears completion
San Angelo art featured in publication
Next mural to honor Elmer Kelton
Christmas Light Contest Winners
Design committee discuss Downtown image
Downtown organization strengthened: Increased community support
There’s a new chief in town
By Lucie Hofheins
Downtown San Angelo Inc, enthusiastically welcomes Genora Young as Executive Director of the Main Street Urban City organization.
Mrs. Young is a Certified Professional Community and Economic Developer, coming to San Angelo from the Texas Department of Rural Affairs, in Austin, where she served as Director of Outreach and Special Programs.
Her experience includes Director of Tourism/Main Street Manager for the City of Fort Stockton, District Manager for nii Communications of Midland, Consultant for Midland Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Alpine Chamber of Commerce.
Prior to service with the Texas Depart of Rural Affairs, Mrs. Young served as Economic Development Director for the City of Eden where she was actively engaged with daily municipal administrative activities, infrastructure development, project management, working with governing boards, councils, committees and organizations.
She is a frequent speaker and trainer for Texas Municipal League seminars, Texas Economic Development Council, Basic Economic Development, Texas Downtown Association, Main Street, and tourism events.
Mrs. Young is a past President of Texas Midwest Community Network, (TMCN), served as Vice President of the Regional Consortium for Economic Development, serves in an ex-officio capacity on the Board of Directors for Texas Forts Trail, is a member of the Rural Economic Development Advisory Committee for the Association of Rural Communities in Texas (ARCIT), and serves on the Board of Directors of the Texas Rural Foundation.
She joined Downtown San Angelo, Inc. January 4,
2010.
“Economic development and the quality of life in our community go hand in hand. I look forward to developing a strong partnership alliance with San Angelo’s Economic Development Community, especially the City of San Angelo, COSADC, the Chamber of Commerce, ASU, Howard College, the Small Business Development Center, Concho Valley Center for Entrepreneurial Development, and Texas Workforce Solutions in order to achieve positive, economic growth for San Angelo,” stated Young.
Downtown San Angelo, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3, non-profit organization and a designated
Main Street City. The Texas Main Street Program focuses on a 4-Point approach to downtown revitalization. Committees of volunteers support the 4-Points of the program:
- Organization: Kathleen Hicks, chairperson
- Promotions/Marketing: Mary Valva, chairperson
- Design: Brenda Gunter, chairperson, and
- Economic Restructuring: Bob Stribling and Jim Cummings, co-chairs.
Working closely with the 30-member Board of Directors, liaisons from several community organizations, and the 300-plus DSA membership, Genora is excited and ready for the new and rewarding challenges of the future.
Keep your eye on downtown San Angelo—we are “looking up downtown.”
Meet and greet session held
DSA hosted a membership gathering in the lobby of the Cactus Hotel on Feb. 10. The event provide an opportunity for the public to meet Executive Director Genora Young, and learn about the exciting upcoming plans for the organization. Attendees were also provided with updated information on the DSA Membership Drive scheduled to take place on Feb. 17–18. And speaking of revitalization—guests were also provided the opportunity to visit the newly renovated DSA office. You are invited to stop by and visit staff and share your vision for Downtown San Angelo.
Newly elected members of Downtown San Angelo Board of Directors
Linda Barnett: downtown business owner, House of Chemicals. Linda and her husband David own and operate the House of Chemicals located at 304 N. Chadbourne. John Barnett, David’s father started the business was in 1965. The Barnett’s also own DOJO, a martial arts school, located next door to the House of Chemicals. Linda and David both grew up in San Angelo. They have two children ages 12 and 9.
David Byrd: First Financial Trust & Asset Management Company-N.A. Executive Vice President. David began his banking career in Trust Banking in Roswell, New Mexico more than three years ago. During his career, he has handled personal trusts, testamentary trusts, corporate trusts, escrows, custodial arrangements and employee benefit accounts. Before joining San Angelo National Bank in November 1997 as Trust Department manager, he worked for First National Bank of Roswell, Security National Bank of Roswell and Amarillo National Bank. David has taught as an adjunct faculty member at New Mexico Military Institute in Roswell, Amarillo College and most recently at Howard College, San Angelo.
David holds a BBA in Accounting and an MBA from Eastern New Mexico University. He is a certified public accountant and a certified trust and financial Advisor. He is a graduate of the New Mexico School of Banking and the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking at Southern Methodist University.
David is past president of the San Angelo Chapter of the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, former president of the San Angelo Estate Planning Council, former chairman of the Board of Trustees of Rio Concho Communities and former chairman of the San Angelo Financial Planning Council.
David is an elder in the Presbyterian Church and is married with two children.
Larry Justiss: Director, Tom Green County Library. Prior to his current position, he was director of the Howard County Library in Big Spring and a Bookmobile Librarian at the Dallas
Public Library. Born and raised in Dallas, he moved to Big Spring in 1973 to accept the position of County Librarian and then in 1975 moved to San Angelo to accept a like position. He earned his Master in Library Science degree in 1975 from the University of North Texas and his undergraduate degree from the same University in 1972.
New board member orientation
New and current DSA Board Members attended an orientation session on Thursday, Jan. 21, 2010 in the Cactus Hotel 2nd floor meeting room.
The training exercise provided the opportunity to educate and inform new board members of their duties, responsibilities and also to thank them for their service. The meeting also served to encourage, increase, and enhance communication between staff, new, and experienced board members. Additionally DSA used the meeting to secure board member commitment for Program participation, which includes but is not limited to Committee selections, fundraising, and leadership development. The ultimate goal is to expand and secure support for the revitalization of historic downtown San Angelo.
Board member Brenda Gunter Citizen of the Year
By Lucie Hofheins
Vice President and Design Committee Co-Chairman of the Downtown San Angelo, Inc. Brenda Gunter, was named San Angelo’s Citizen of the Year at the annual San Angelo Chamber of Commerce banquet on January 26.
Brenda is proof that growing up in a rural community equips a girl to do anything. Brenda enjoyed all aspects of rural farming and ranching life, in Winona, Kansas, starting with 4-H, except for the “cooking thing.” Her mother encouraged her and she gave it her all, but Brenda just never fell in love with the kitchen.
She attended the Kansas State University, on a Union Pacific Scholarship earning a BA in Home Economics. Sanger Harris, in Dallas recruited her into their executive training program where she became a buyer for the company. Neiman Marcus, then made a “run” at her three times before she left Sanger Harris, “a GREAT company!” she comments, with a tone of nostalgia.
After one year as a buyer for Neiman Marcus, Brenda was promoted to divisional vice president. Her drive and flair for customer presentations developed the most successful cashmere business in the country and commanded the attention of Bloomingdales in New York. Brenda hit her stride in the fashion industry in New York. She put together a promotions and marketing plan for Bloomingdales that resulted in the most successful Armani business in New York.
Gabrielle Forte, CEO of Calvin Klein, took notice of the country girl and that’s how a little girl from Kansas became the President of Calvin Klein Collections. After four years with CK, Brenda was
introduced to Kenneth Gunter a San Angelo native. They married in Aspen, Colorado in 1998; Brenda left the Big Apple, and immediately planted her rural roots in downtown San Angelo.
Vice-president of Downtown San Angelo, Inc., Chairperson of the Design Committee, the 2009 Chair of the TIRZ Committee and owner of Miss Hattie’s, Brenda is a passionate guiding force of the Main Street Program and downtown development efforts. Her creative talents and tireless energy developed Art Walk, Sheep Spectacular, and the April Car Show.
The family-oriented events are designed to bring people and economic growth to San Angelo. Brenda’s love for San Angelo is fueled by husband Ken’s passion for his hometown. Ask her, on any day, what it means to her to be a part of a successful downtown development effort and she’ll tell you, “It will be my greatest legacy.”
Susan Morris awarded two honors
2010 brought double honors to Susan Morris, executive director of Historic Murals of San Angelo. The San Angelo Chamber of Commerce presented the “Spirit of San Angelo” award to Ms. Morris at the January 26th annual awards banquet.
Susan returned to her Texas roots in 1997. She was determined to discover an untapped need in San Angelo in which she might dedicate her talents and experience. Thus, Historic Murals of San Angelo was born. Her inspiration soon became a reality and to date there are eight historically accurate murals in the downtown San Angelo area. Additionally, Mrs. Morris was instrumental in the inception of the North Chadbourne façade renewal, thereby improving the northernmost entrance and other areas of downtown.
Numerous hours of planning, research, leg work, fulfilling local/state mandates, fund-raising and much more have been invested in the mural projects—and she is not done yet. Several projects are in development and the next is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2010.
On January 27, Susan was the recipient of the Santa Angela honor which recognizes and pays tribute to women who have contributed to the well-being of our city. A number of Historic Murals of San Angelo Board Members were on hand to cheer Susan on as excerpts from the nomination letter were read.
The old saying “A rolling stone gathers no moss” is the best description of Texas Christian Univeristy alumna, Susan Steers-Morris. Upon earning her degree from TCU, Susan hit the ground running and has never waivered in her efforts to contribute to the community. Susan began her career as a public school educator with the Snyder ISD. Upon marrying, she relocated to Baton Rouge, Lousiana. This proud mother of five children sported many hats in the business world.
Returning to San Angelo she quickly became familiar with the locals and found an uncharted need to publicize the colorful San Angelo history—for all to easily observe. To date San AngeloHas four larger-than-life downtown murals:
- The Transportation Mural
- The Blacksmith Mural,
- The Chadbourne Street Mural
- Ranching Mural
Always seeking new means to reach out to the public, a free “Guide by Cell” audio feature is offered in which callers can listen to the history of each of the murals. All murals have been thoroughly researched for historic authenticity.
Many locals know Susan as a feisty, sometimes stubborn and persistent individual who hardly misses a San Angelo civic event. Susan is not blind to these perceptions, yet she bravely, often single handedly, pursues her tireless mission as a history-protective and advocate of San Angelo’s enduring and rich contributions as one of Texas’ grandest cities.
Susan’s legacy will live on for many years to come. Visitors and future San Angeloans will learn about their fair city by observing it all on downtown buildings.
The Historic Murals theme is most fitting: “OUR PAST HAS US UP AGAINST THE WALLS”
Demolition commences—renewal imminent
As one enters the Downtown San Angelo area via the North Chadbourne exit, a notable change is taking place.
The old Ironworks property is in demolition phase and the site is being prepared for the highly anticipated Multi-Modal Transportation Terminal.
Located at North Chadbourne and 5th Street the 10,500-square-foot facility will serve as home to the Concho Valley Transit District and the Metropolitan Planning Organization.
Along with the many façade improvements and enhancements along North Chadbourne, this project will serve as an appealing entry into downtown San Angelo. Additionally, more centralized transportation services add to the economic development of the entire community.
Together with the with the City of San Angelo, the Council of Governments have applied for a federal grant, which would help to fund a portion of the N. Chadbourne Street improvements. Included in the improvement plans are:
- New sidewalks
- Landscaping
- Bus stop amenities
- Street lighting
- Required curbs
Some of the funding will come from the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) which Downtown San Angelo initiated the research for in 2007.
The scope of the project extends from the Multi-Modal facility to 18th Street.
Music, food and fun!
Move over Austin! Downtown San Angelo is happening!
Beginning March 16, Sealy Flats will host 17 Live Music Concerts weekly at their establishment located at 204 S. Oakes. FMI:
325-653-1400.
If you haven’t attended the the National Ceramics Competition in April, you should plan on taking part in the many events which include a special Friday night Downtown Art Walk, a Saturday Classic Car Show and a multitude of exhibits and in-store specials. FMI: 325-653-3333 or 325-655-1234
For additional information on these and all of the downtown events click here.
Library nears completion
Through the generosity of many companies, organizations and numerous individuals, the much anticipated Tom Green County Library is scheduled to open its doors in October, 2010. Occupying more than 60,000 square feet and additional room for future expansion, the new facility will more than double the space of the presently existing library located in the Edd B. Keyes Building.
Amenities included in the new space include large meeting spaces, a café and coffee shop, state-of-the-art library facilities and expansion of current library services.
Four years in development, the Hemphill-Wells building transformation has been an expensive endeavor with over $17,460,000 collected in an on-going fundraising effort. You can still be a part of this worthwhile undertaking.
Sponsorship opportunities are available by calling 325-224-4432 or 325-655-9045.
This public/private venture was made possible due to all of the partners involved. Spearheaded by the committee named “Beacon to the Future” the fundraising effort demonstrates what can be accomplished when the community is united.
Local contractor, Templeton Construction, has handled the construction phase of the project and expects to complete the work in September. With a three to four week move from the old library to the new facility, an October 1 opening date is anticipated.
This is an exciting time for downtown San Angelo. Visit the historic city center soon, and make sure to plan a visit to the new Tom Green County Library this fall. There will be something for everyone to enjoy.
San Angelo art featured in publication
Texas Co-op Power recently ran a feature “Artsy in San Angelo” by Ashley Clary, field editor. The article highlighted the Chicken Farm Art Center, which features artists studios, galleries, bed and breakfast lodging, performances by local musicians and a fine restaurant.
Honorably mentioned were the San Angelo Convention & Visitors Bureau and the unique San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts.
Ms. Clary noted the historic murals which tell the tale of San Angelo’s rich history. Also taken notice she enjoyed the brightly colored fiberglass sheep, which dot the downtown landscape. Ashley has made it a point to return to San Angelo in early September as she hope to visit the International Water Lily Collection. Perhaps we could also interest her in viewing the Secret Garden and Paintbrush Alley displays in downtown San Angelo. Or she may want to pay a visit to the Art In Uncommon group as they continue their mosaic magic in the Wendland Warehouse. Then there is the many talented artists, musicians, authors, composers and the like who live right here among us in good ol’ San Angelo.
It is a great place to visit over and over again—for it always has much of interest to offer!
Next mural to honor Elmer Kelton
A new historic mural is in development and it will be located at 118 S. Chadbourne, on the south wall of the Black Swan Gallery (one of the Three Sisters Buildings). The mural will be 40’ wide and 24’ tall and will be painted by muralist Stylle Read. Mr. Read is the artist who completed the Ranching Mural on the side of Bill’s Man Shop on Randolph Street.
In the sketch, you can see Elmer Kelton with his hand on many of the books he brought so vividly to life. The well known stories depict the West Texas way of existence, and you can see many of the thoughts and visions which must have run through Mr. Kelton’s head as he put pen to paper.
You too can be a part of this memorial. Just send your donation to: Historic Murals of San Angelo, P.O. Box 61402, San Angelo, TX 76906.
The artist is expected to commence on this mural in March.
Christmas Light Contest Winners
The House of FiFi Dubois, located at 123 S. Chadbourne was awarded best Christmas Light display in the annual Downtown Christmas Light Contest. The management and staff put together a very bright and inviting Christmas light theme.
The winner of the Downtown Light Contest is awarded a life-size Christmas Card in the 2010 Concho Christmas Light Tour. The card is valued at $2500.
Congratulation to Phyllis Cox, Toni Hunter and their crew on a job well done!
2nd Place: Wool ‘n Cotton shop at 602 Orient in Old Town
3rd Place: The Dead Horse Live Music Venue at 210 S. Chadbourne
A sizable number of downtown merchants participated in the 2009 contest, and DSA hopes to include even more for Christmas 2010.
Design committee discuss Downtown image
By Lucie Hofheins
Downtown San Angelo’s Design Committee met at Miss Hattie’s Restaurant, 26 E. Concho Avenue to discusses and review design concepts for downtown.
Committee projects include streetscapes, wayfinding, landscape and sidewalk improvements, gateways, lighting and more. The group reviewed design guidelines for benches, trash receptacles, gateways and lighting. One of the funding sources for the development of downtown design projects is the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ). The committee together with Downtown San
Angelo Inc. hopes to move some of the proposed projects into completion in 2010.
Providing an aesthetically visually welcoming image of downtown serves no only the locals but also assists in increasing the tourist trade for the entire community of San Angelo.
The Design Committee plans to capitalize on San Angelo’s exceptional assets and unique heritage.
Downtown organization strengthened: Increased community support
By Lucie Hofheins
Forty-three new members were added to current Downtown San Angelo, Inc. membership roster for the 2010 program year. Over 310 business’s and individual’s have joined in downtown revitalization and preservation efforts as a result of the annual membership drive.
DSA’s Call-A-Thon, conducted February 17–18 at the Top of the Cactus Hotel established this fund raising tool as both effective and rewarding. Participating board members commented that response from the community was favorable due in large part to Downtown San Angelo’s hard work and numerous accomplishments thus far. Some of the achievements experienced are:
- Texas Historical Commission recognized Downtown San Angelo as a National Main Street City for program years 2008, 2009, 2010
- The Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone initiated by Downtown San Angelo, Inc. in collaboration with the City of San Angelo and established in 2007 has resulted in the following:
- 1. $140,000 was provided to the Tom Green County Library with a projected opening scheduled in the fall of 2010.
- 2. TIRZ funds were made available to develop landscape design schematics for the North Chadbourne Corridor. This northernmost entrance to the downtown area will soon house a Transportation Modal to serve the city including trolley and bus service within the downtown area. The final landscape design selected will tie the north end of the downtown area to the historic city center.
- 3. Funding was also provided to the wayfinding consultant group relegated to design identifying signage unique to San Angelo in the downtown area
- The City of San Angelo introduced the Downtown Façade Improvement Program in collaboration with Downtown San Angelo, Inc. Note the many façade improvements throughout Downtown and most significantly the North Chadbourne corridor.
- DSA funded the banner project which presented Identifying “A Walk Through Time” banners. These colorful banners designating many downtown historic buildings and identifying special areas i.e. shopping, dining, museums, etc. DSA funded the banner project
- In order to enhance our citizens awareness and appreciation of our historic city center’s significance to the quality of life in our community, a number of successful and festive events were held in the downtown area to include: Art-Ober-Fest - the Sheep Spectacular paid tribute to San Angelo’s wool industry and featuring the colorful fiber-glass sheep seen throughout the city. The ASU Homecoming parade attracted many visitors in town to celebrate the homecoming weekend, and further served to attract youth groups to downtown San Angelo.
- Third Thursday of the month art walks, now in the second year, have become fashionable and are bringing in visitors from outside areas. Art and music venues are offered throughout the evening in various locations. Downtown San Angelo sponsors free trolley service for this event and has designed trolley stop signs at specified locations. Additionally, a trolley tour guide is made available to highlight the many participants and interesting downtown sites.
- Many downtown galleries and businesses have reported increased traffic and business on Art Walk night.
- Downtown Movie Nights were introduced in 2009 and successfully brought families out to view old favorite movies under the stars. Complete with popcorn, sodas, hotdogs and the like, attendees brought their comfortable chairs & blankets and settled in to watch a variety of movie offerings in the outdoors.
These are but a few of the goals we have met for downtown, but there is much more in store with our primary focus on downtown economic development.
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