The Texas Downtown Association (TDA) has named Garland’s Made Fresh & Local Concert Series the Best Promotional Digital Campaign of 2020. The Texas Downtown Association sponsors an annual program to recognize outstanding projects, places and people of Texas. This year’s announcement came virtually the week of Oct. 27.
The recent pandemic altered and canceled favored celebrations in Garland such as Jazz on the Square and Sounds of Summer Concert Series. The Garland community responded by uniting to produce an “Only in Garland” event that sought to highlight the hidden talent, culture, and style of the community.
The Made Fresh & Local Concert Series was created after an initial event featured local resident and classically trained pianist, Bobby Orozco who played a majestic set in the landmark Plaza Theater. His wife Jessica simultaneously painted a piece on stage without brushes – only various everyday textures. Local businesses across the city cross-promoted the event with exclusive event items and specials. The concert was only accessible via social media and guests were able to attend an online after-party where they could bid on the art piece.
“We are thrilled to accept this award on behalf of our community which continues to amaze me. We are blessed with an abundance of creative minds, collaborative spirits and love for Downtown Garland,” said Letecia McNatt, coordinator for the city of Garland’s Downtown Development Office. Bobby and Jessica didn’t hesitate to selflessly pour their heart into this event. Local businesses celebrated and embraced the event as they would a traditional concert, and our team at the city had a ‘let’s make this happen’ attitude.
One hundred and four entries were submitted in ten different categories from communities across the state. Due to the number of entries, the entries were divided up into two categories – Design and Achievement – with separate expert professionals serving as judging panels for each group. The Achievement Panel included AJ Fawver of Verdunity, P.A. Geddie of County Line Magazine, consultant Lynda Humble, and Julie Kunkle of Open Sky Media, Inc.
TDA was established in 1985 to connect and serve communities, similar to Garland that are committed to downtown vitality. The organization is an independent, statewide nonprofit that represents cities and towns of all sizes, economic development corporations, chambers of commerce, local organizations, small businesses, and individuals.
Winners were announced in a series of virtual live Facebook Videos release throughout the week of Oct. 27 to kick-off the virtual 2020 Texas Downtown Conference scheduled Nov. 9-12. For more information about the award or other programs of the Texas Downtown Association, visit www.texasdowntown.org. Applications for the 2021 awards program will open in the spring.