|
Crowd pleaser
Mayor's Breakfast a hit
It's unlikely the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center had ever been so packed at 7:30 on a Thursday morning. But that was the case for the Downtown Partnership's annual Mayor's Breakfast on November 4, 2010. Hundreds poured through the doors and literally rubbed shoulders in the brightly lit hallways, trying to squeeze in coffee, networking, and a bite or two before the morning's agenda got underway.
Less than 48 hours had passed since the end of Election Day. Among other notable contests and initiatives, Coloradoans had chosen John Hickenlooper as next Governor of Colorado, and locals had decided that they'd prefer a "strong mayor" form of government.
Following the breakfast and social hour, guests convened in the FAC's SaGaJi Theater. Downtown Partnership President Chris Jenkins officially welcomed everyone, offered appreciation to board, committee and other volunteers, and introduced the speakers.
Mayor Rivera gave a thorough review of Downtown accomplishments and plans for the future, which are highlighted in the Downtown Partnership 2010 Annual Report, distributed at the meeting.
 The annual Mayor's Breakfast was Governor-elect Hickenlooper's first public speech since the election. After outlining his transition-to-office plans, Hickenlooper spoke about downtowns in general, saying that "great downtowns have a way of making great suburbs" and specifically, his belief that Downtown Colorado Springs is perhaps best poised to make some giant leaps within the next five to 10 years. "You're one, two or three ideas away from something big happening," he predicted.
During the meeting, Mayor Rivera and DP Executive Director Ron Butlin gave special plaques of appreciation to the Colorado Springs Police Department, which has dedicated officers and developed new strategies the past several years toward making Downtown a safer 24/7 environment. |
|
On the web
DP launches new site
The Downtown Partnership is excited to announce the re-launch of our completely redesigned web site, www.downtown80903.com. As anyone who's ever created or recreated an entire web site knows... greatness takes time!
The site features more information, greater functionality and, of course, a handsome new image. Take a look and let us know what you think! |
Plan on it
Happy holidays start Downtown
Here's a brief look at what's coming up Downtown.
RIGHT NOW!
Love the Philharmonic? You'll love it even more when you purchase $100 worth of Downtown Gift Cards and receive credit certificates for two tickets to the Nutcracker Ballet! But you have to act quickly --- the performances are Friday through Sunday, November 26-28. Gift cards are good at more than 100 shops,  restaurants and entertainment venues, and can be purchased online at www.downtown80903.com or by calling the Downtown Partnership at (719) 886-0088.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Be sure that the first official holiday shopping day-Black Friday-starts off Downtown. Enjoy all day parking for $1 at all City garages, and specials at Tejon and Bijou retailers and restaurants.
Lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be offered at The Flow of Mexico, Jose Muldoon's, Old Chicago, OPB&J, Slayton's, Subway, Sonterra Grill, and Bruegger's Bagels.
Retailer specials will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at Savory Spice Shop, Zeezo's, Couture, What's in Store, Putogether, Escape Velocity Comics, Mt. Tejon, Brown's Shoe Fit,
Regina's Unique Botique, Terra Verde, Saboz, Jack Miller Jewelry Designers, Phancy Pheasant, Mountain Chalet, Ellie K Boutique, Kirk and Hill, Runners Roost, Zerbe Jewelers and Rutledge's.
DECEMBER 1
 Need a little push to get you into the seasonal groove? Check out the Tejon Street Christmas Stroll on December 1. Join the fun, food from local restaurants, street entertainment and of course all the holiday lights and decorations from 5:30 to 8 p.m. that evening. Register to win one of three incredible prizes. First is a ski package, valued over $500, courtesy of Silverton Mountain Skiing and Grand Imperial Hotel. Second prize is a $150 gift card for Genesis MedSpa. Third prize is a $100 Downtown Gift Card.
Register for the prizes at CJ Kard, Ellie K Boutique, Jack Miller Jewelry Designers, Johannes Hunter Jewelers, Kirk and Hill, Mt. Tejon, Regina's Unique Boutique, Saboz, Savory Spice, Terra Verde, The Phancy Pheasant, Vintages Wine and Spirits, What's in Store, and Zeezo's.
Each location will feature food from one of these local restaurants: Nosh, Mya Bella Cupcakes, The Famous Steakhouse, Sweet Celebrations, Subway, Sonterra Grill, Old Chicago, Mrs. Fields, Blue Star, Fratelli Ristorante, The Ritz, Jack Quinn's, Paris Crepes and Dove Chocolate.
Winners will be drawn on Thursday, December 2, and notified by phone or email.
MOST OF DECEMBER
While Downtown, revel in the brighter holiday lights and decorations! We've expanded the tree lighting on Tejon, from Platte Avenue north to Boulder Street, and on the Pikes Peak Avenue median between Tejon and Cascade, as well as brightening other trees throughout.Look for a new multi-colored decorated spruce tree on the south side of Pikes Peak in that same block.
Of course, no holiday season Downtown would be complete without appearances by the Band Wassail and Christmas Brass.
Band Wassail was started by Jeff Stone and features three male voices this year. Stone's, joined by Mike Hegemann and Bill Harloff. Dressed in garb of the Victorian era, the men play primitive instruments and stroll through Downtown, singing traditional "wassail songs" and more well-known Christmas carols, like Deck the Halls and Jingle Bells.
"Band Wassail brings to life the Victorian spirit of Christmas past, when Colorado Springs was known as Little London," Stone says. Look for the trio during Friday lunch hours in December, as well as on the weekends.
In one form or another, Christmas Brass has added to Downtown's holiday ambience since the 1950s.This season, the five-piece brass quintet includes front man Floyd Frame and Bill Finch on trombone, Chris Lawson and Steve Hock on trumpet, and Ted Bauman on tuba. Catch them strolling Tejon street and playing traditional music on December 16 and 23 between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and during Saturday afternoons on December 11 and 18. They'll entertain requests, too!
DECEMBER 4
Don't forget the Festival of Lights Parade, which takes place this year on December 4, beginning at 5:50 p.m.
|
|
Indy GIVE campaign
"Live here. Give here."
Last year the Colorado Springs Independent's GIVE campaign raised nearly $200,000 for area charities. THIS YEAR, they're hoping to do even better. You can donate to 40 charities in these sectors: animals, the environment, community building, arts and culture, youth, families, and wellness.
Many of this year's designated recipients directly or indirectly help Downtown ... like Designated Drivers (www.noduicosprings.com), Future Self (www.futureself.org), Imagination Celebration (www.imaginationcelebration.org) Pikes Peak Urban Gardens (www.ppugardens.org) and many others.
Learn about the GIVE campaign, about each of the 40 charities it supports and, most importantly, how to make an easy online donation at www.indygive.com. |
|
Countdown to closing
Bryan & Scott Jewelers
Nothing lasts forever, not even Bryan & Scott Jewelers at 112 N. Tejon-at least not as we've known them. Owner Roberto Agnolini is winding down the legendary business and everything in the store is marked down for speedy sale. If you've not ever been, now's the time to experience this iconic retail shop.
Agnolini won't officially close the shop until he's sold the property. He anticipates keeping shop hours-Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.-at least until early 2011. Unless, of course, something big happens before then.
So don't miss out on what could be your last shot at a fantastic deal on something incredibly special-art, antiques, and jewelry unlike anything else. For more information, call the shop at (719) 633-9316. Parties interested in the property should contact Mark Useman at (719) 955-2008. |
|
Welcomed by Wyndham
Mining Exchange plus ...
The Mining Exchange Hotel is now officially The Mining Exchange, A Wyndham Grand Hotel. The announcement came November 11, 2010 from Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, LLC.
Located at 8 South Nevada, the hotel is actually four historic buildings. The property is still under development, though slated to open in early to mid 2011 with 119 guest rooms (including two presidential, 12 grand and 35 junior suites), several restaurants (including the already open Il Postino in the Independence Building), a business center, fitness center, spa and more.
In a press release, Wyndham President Jeff Wagoner said, "Downtown Colorado Springs is in the early stages of a great revitalization and we look forward to being a part of its growth with this unique development project." |
|
Doubling up
Andruses to open "SPQR"
If it sounds a little alien ... well, just keep in mind it's coming from Brett and Lauren Andrus, owners of the wildly successful The Modbo. And "SPQR" is simply the motto of the ancient Roman Republic. But you knew that, right?
SPQR is a natural extension of The Modbo, which has seen eager crowds of art buyers, music listeners, and poetry readers. The Andruses plan to expand art exhibits, performances and classes into the new space, with a new round of classes offered in both places in January. SPQR will be located at 17B East Bijou, in the former Rubbish Gallery, adjacent to the couple's current digs. In the alley. But you knew that, right?
A Grand Opening will be held Friday, December 10, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Modbo's famed Small Works Show will open in both spaces, to comprise the Biggest Small Works Show Ever. Just in time for the holidays, you can shop for art in two buildings, packed to the gills with works smaller than 24 inches. Woot! Expect the usual nice touches, like live music from hip-hop Pirate Signal, local Indie rocker HEADHUM, and a dash of classical something. For more info, email themodbo@gmail.com.
|
New retail
Cottonwood adds Tejon location
Cottonwood Center for the Arts will open a second location at 8 S. Tejon later this month. "We'll be up and running by November 29," said new interim director Sandy Murphy. The storefront satellite will be an exclusive retail outlet for the center's hundreds of affiliate artists. Art, jewelry, glass works, stained glass, ceramics, fiber arts and more will be available for sale. Hours will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through the holidays. For more information, call (719) 520-1899.
|
Membership
Welcome back renewing members!
Downtown Partnership Members
Associates Level - $250.00 DLR Group WEM Investments Hunan Springs
Member Level - $500.00 |
Major Sponsors
of the Downtown Partnership
H. Chase Stone Trust
|
|
