by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
Wednesday’s November Art Walk was an occasion to celebrate two milestone, the 7th year of the monthly Downtown gallery tour and the 10th anniversary of Downtown Vision’s advocacy for the urban core.
The theme for the walk was “Movember” and many venues turned the evening into a way to raise awareness and funds for cancers that affect men. Faux mustaches were seen on upper lips all evening and many of the galleries donated a portion of their sales to research involving prostate and testicular cancer.
At Snyder Memorial, Downtown Vision Inc. marked its first decade and also elected new officers and board members.
DVI Executive Director Terry Lorince reflected on the 10 years and shared what she believed are the most remarkable changes in the Downtown improvement district in that time. She cited the 1,500 units of market-rate housing, the expansion of the Northbank Riverwalk, the renovation of buildings to house City and federal offices and the expanded nightlife scene.
“Ten years ago, if you wanted to get a drink after work, you either went to the Landing or to a hotel. Now there are 15 venues,” said Lorince.
Looking ahead, Lorince said the most important issue today is a focus on Downtown.
“Downtown is on everybody’s agenda,” she said.
Mike Jennings, incoming chair of DVI’s board of directors, said he’s taking over the post at a critical time in Downtown’s development.
“We have to make sure the next mayor makes Downtown a priority and has passion,” he said.
356-2466