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JANUARY 2009
Membership appreciation: Moving ahead
Message from Executive Director
Lee Pfluger acknowledged by DSA Board of Directors
Sheep Spectacular receives special recognition
Concho Christmas celebrates 14th anniversary
Membership appreciation: Moving ahead
By Lucie Hofheins
Downtown San Angelo experienced another banner year with the help of dedicated members. 2008 DSA accomplishments:
Economic Restructuring:
- Organized a seminar presented by ASU Small Businesses Administration. The seminar stressed marketing of downtown businesses and provided downtown business owners with effective marketing tools and customer satisfaction initiatives.
- Completed survey of downtown business and property owners regarding parking limits. With survey results, Downtown San Angelo made recommendations to City Council for a consistent 3-hour parking policy in the downtown area. This item was passed by City Council. The time limit signs were paid for by DSA and were installed in July.
- The National Development Council provided information regarding utilization of tax credits and newmarket credits. The group will assist in identifying qualifying projects and funding means.
- DSA Continues to work on building facades through the North Chadbourne corridor. With the implementation of the City of San Angelo’s Façade Grant Program, many downtown business have made significant improvement to storefronts.
- Research regarding residential downtown living was instituted and will move to the forefront as a 2009 Action Plan item.
Design:
- The banner program was completed with installation of flags on bridges. With the assistance of the City of San Angelo and local sign shop, banners were installed. DSA acknowledges the downtown organizations who participated in the bridge banner project.
- DSA, along with the Convention and Visitors Bureau and the City of San Angelo assisted in the funding of Wayfinding Consultant. The ultimate goal is for harmonized gateway and signage throughout the downtown area.
- The Sheep Art Projects continues as this unique art is placed in permanent locations. Additionally, we continue to receive sponsorship in the Sheeptacular event and look forward to featuring new designs in 2009.
Organization:
- A successful membership drive/fundraiser was held that resulted 42 new memberships and provided the required “public match” funds for City financial participation. Downtown revitalization and preservation objectives continue to attract interested businesses and individuals
- The TIRZ Board was assigned, organized and has begun to work on distribution of funds accordingly. * In conjunction with DSA’s annual membership meeting, the committee chairs reported on their activities and successes during the year.
- Six new community leaders were recruited to serve on DSA’s Board of Directors.
- In collaboration with Angelo State University, the graduate honors group is working closely with DSA.
Promotions:
- At the July, 2008 United Way “Day of Caring,” Goodfellow volunteers assisted in sheep art placement at various locations. For sheep location information, visit: www.downtownsanangelo.com
- 2008 - Partnering with Convention & Visitors Bureau, San Angelo Cultural Affairs Council, and San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, the “Art Walk” was initiated. The is scheduled every third Thursday of the month and will feature a special art walk theme each month.
- The Sheep Spectacular/Art-ober-fest took place in October and highlighted the Miss Wool Contest, ASU Homecoming Parade, GLamb-o-Ram-a Ball, and more. The event successfully drew crowds downtown and provided a quality fund raiser for DSA.
- Downtown Monthly Activity Fliers provided event information and downtown highlight details to the public. DSA Promoted three themed parades in downtown:
- ASU Homecoming,
- Veterans Day parade
- Christmas Light Parade
Executive Director’s Message
By Del Velasquez
2009 promises to be another exciting year for Downtown San Angelo, Inc. We are extremely excited about the addition of new board members that are true leaders in their professions and their commitment to our community. Beginning with Jim Cummings, a corporate executive with tremendous experience in economic development and revitalization projects; Darrell Gill, President of Ener-Tel; Susan Howell, Owner of Saddle Shop Antiques; Dujuan McCoy, President Bayou Broadcasting Company; Dr. Joseph Rallo, President of Angelo State University; Mary Valva, Owner of The Glass Prism.
Along with an already outstanding Board of Directors our 2009 Officers are: President: Bob Stribling; Vice President: Brenda Gunter; Treasurer: Wylie Webb and Secretary: Jim Cummings
The driving force behind the revitalization of downtown San Angelo is to attract our citizens and build a tourism industry of our own. With the looming financial crunch and the different crises we face, it will be dependent on us to build on what treasures we have in place. Our history and heritage are two variables that no one can relocate, merge or destroy. It is who we are and what we do which will draw the human interest to visit our city. In order to best describe the heart of our city we need to experience it! To try and define the diversity of our downtown is as numerous as the people who live and work in our great city.
Our efforts will be to advocate, design and develop plans that will create a foundation for establishing Downtown San Angelo as a destination point for tourists. Our four working committees are currently fine tuning the 2009 Action Plans and it is critical that everyone participate with the execution of these plans.
“Our resolve must be to persevere through these trying times and leverage our resources strategically and with defiance in order to continue the momentum that has been established.”
Board retreat motivating
By Lucie Hofheins
 The DSA Board of Directors makes use of the annual retreat to expand and cultivate planned actions. |
On October 27, 2008 at Clear Creek Ranch, Menard, Texas, Downtown San Angelo, Inc.’s Board of Directors came together to tactically review the 2008 Action Plan, and to develop strategies for 2009. Completed actions were highlighted and plans for the new year were reviewed. With the assistance of Texas Historic Commission representative, Josh Lassiere, the board discussed and developed the following guidelines for the upcoming year some of which include long term goals:
- Comprehensive Goals with 2009 Action Plan
- Commitment to Preservation
- Effective Communication and Marketing Plan
- Development of a Sustainable Downtown Culture
- Broad based community and volunteer support
Armed with these guidelines, committees dispensed actions to individual committee members with timelines assigned. Committees are based on the Main Street four-point approach consisting of the following:
Organization: Getting everyone working toward the same goal. The volunteer-driven program by means of a governing board and committees works toward building consensus and cooperation among various groups which have a stake in the area.
Promotion: Utilizing the district’s unique characteristics to visitors, locals, investors, businesses, an effective promotion plan creates a positive image through advertising, special events, promoting retail activity, and marketing campaigns. Moreover, it serves to improve consumer and investor confidence in downtown.
Design: Defined as capitalizing on assets such as historic buildings, pedestrian friendly areas, attractive wayfinding concepts, this subject serves to convey a visual message on what the area has to offer.
Economic Restructuring: This point involves strengthening the existing economic features and broadening the economic base in the community. Assisting current businesses, enlisting new business, utilizing or converting existing spaces to foster productivity and sharpen commerce in the district define the focus of this point. Based on the four points, committees move toward putting plans into motion.
Welcoming new board members
By Lucie Hofheins
Angelo State University President Joseph Rallo, has joined the DSA Board of Directors. Dr. Rallo’s vast background and expertise will compliment the current board fittingly. Downtown development can serve to and expand student enrollment at ASU. Additionally, student volunteer groups have become actively involved in downtown promotions and special events. A great city center and a great university will augment the entire community.
Owner-operator of the Glass Prism since May of 2001, Mary Valva brings the downtown merchant perspective to the group. Mary has served as board member in both Lee Junior High School and Central High School. Additionally Ms. Valva served as past president of the band and orchestra boosters club and parentteacher organization. Ms. Valva will also chair the DSA Promotions Committee.
Jim Cummings Sr. moved to San Angelo in 1994 to serve as President of Wells Fargo Bank. While in San Angelo, Mr. Cummings was instrumental in coordinating the Wells Fargo Distinguished Lectureship & Scholarship in Business at Angelo State University. He also served as Chairman of the ASU College of Business and Professional Studies. Advisory Council. Jim and his wife, Jan, were married in 1966. they have three children: Paul, Mark and Marcie.
Darrell Gill is involved in many community and civic activities. Darrell was the founder of the Texas Business Owners’ Council and was the co-founding organizer of the Texas Institute for Education reform and a board member for the National Small Business Association. Currently, Darrell remains involved with community activities as a Vice President of the San Angelo Development Corporation, and serves as a board member for Meals for the Elderly, Downtown San Angelo, Big Brothers-Big Sisters and the San Angelo Convention and Visitors Bureau. Darrell and his wife Brenda have four children and five grandchildren.
Susan Howell is a fourth-generation San Angeloan. She graduated from Lake View High School in 1979. Susan and her husband Walter "Buda" Howell have two daughters, Raina, 23, and Royal, 22. Previously, Ms. Howell was a merchandiser representing many national companies here in San Angelo and surrounding towns. In July, 2004 she opened 'Fruit Fly Produce and featured fresh produce and gourmet foods. In the fall of 2006, the store changed to antiques and vintage. Now Saddleshop Antiques, three additional dealers are represented in the store. Susan is co-president of the Concho Avenue Association and is a member of Sacred Heart Cathedral.
Snowflakes & crystal
By Lucie Hofheins
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The Glass Prism, owned by Mary Valva, was selected as first place w inner for the unique snowflake and crystal theme. Ms. Valva will receive a $1250 Christmas Card in the 2009 Concho Christmas Light Tour which will feature a special holiday message from The Glass Prism. The prize has been donated by Concho Christmas. A special prize winning certificate was presented to Ms. Valva by Downtown San Angelo, Inc.’s Executive Director Del Velasquez. Downtown San Angelo, Inc. would like to congratulate all businesses who participated in the 2008 Christmas Light Contest.
Lee Pfluger acknowledged by DSA Board of Directors
By Lucie Hofheins
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At the annual Christmas Party held at Miss Hattie’s, the 2008 Downtown San Angelo Board of Directors recognized Board President, Lee Pfluger, for his stalwart service over the past three years. During his tenure, Downtown San Angelo made significant strides in downtown revitalization efforts.
A unique handmade engraved stained-glass award (Texas shaped and provided by Mary Valva, of The Glass Prism), was presented to Mr. Pfluger by incoming President, Bob Stribling. A majority of current board members were on hand to offer their appreciation to Mr. Pfluger and the Executive Committee for their hard work and dedication to the Main Street Program.
Mr. Pfluger will continue to lend his expertise on the executive committee in both advisory and participatory capacity.
2009 officers are: Bob Stribling President, Brenda Gunter Vice President, Wylie Webb, Treasurer and Jim Cummings, Secretary.
A majority of current board members were on hand to offer their appreciation to Mr. Pfluger and the Executive Committee for their hard work and dedication to the Main Street Program. Mr. Pfluger will continue to lend his expertise on the executive committee in both advisory and participatory capacity.
Sheep Spectacular gets special recognition
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At the November, 2008 Texas Downtown Association Conference in Temple, Texas, DSA received Special “Judges Recognition” for it’s Sheep Spectacular promotional event. This event capitalized on San Angelo’s goat and sheep ranching history and featured the return of the “Miss Wool” contest. Spectacular did not replicate the original contest, but was a tongue-in-cheek event featuring fiberglass sheep as contestants.
Sheep art designs can be spotted throughout the downtown San Angelo area, and have begun to move out throughout the city. Watch for the flock of colorful wooly wonders to grow in number as the event continues its momentum.
Concho Christmas celebrates 14th anniversary
By Becca Kelley
For the past 13 years, San Angelo’s Concho Christmas Celebration has been, and continues to be, the largest display of Christmas lights in West Texas. The 2.5 mile tour has over 3 million lights, including breathtaking, animated scenes and beautifully handpainted greeting cards.
An average of 75,000 people visit the light tour each year to celebrate the joyous holiday season. 2008’s event attracted 76,000 visitors and a total of 48 oversize hand created Christmas Greeting Cards lined the tour route.
Special Concho Christmas events include:
- Soft Opening
- Santa ride in by train at the Railroad Museum
- Annual Holiday Bazaar at Santa Fe Crossing including homemade jewelry, crochet, ceramics, and paintings
- Christmas at Old Fort Concho including shopping, living history, special scheduled shows
- Community Tree Lighting & Parade
- Santa and Mrs. Clause arriving on Concho Avenue by Shannon Air-Med Helicopter
- Champions for Children Toys for Tots tournament; including armed combat, drumming & dance, mercantile, medieval fashion show
- Run Run Rudolph run or walk the 2 mile course along the Concho River while enjoying Christmas Lights and hot cocoa
- Downtown San Angelo Light Contest
- Pony Express riders picked up children’s letters to Santa at the Jewell Parking Lot
- Tuba Christmas Christmas carols played by tubas and euphoniums inside City Auditorium
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