A Message from Governor Owens

Pat and I were truly enjoying the Colorado Tourism Conference. It seemed like all of a sudden we were asked to get on a bus (we were at the Marriott Tech Center). We weren't really highjacked, but suddenly we were on a comfy bus headed off to Old Littleton".

Following 9/11 and other economic challenges, the tourism industry was hit hard by its own Tsunami. Today the word was, "Old Littleton really had its act together and would serve as a great model for drawing tourists as well as a neat place for the locals to hang out." As we got off the bus, we were greeted by John Brackney, president of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce and Brian Vogt, director of Colorado's Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Then we were offered beverages and food of our choice (so much for our diet).

As we strolled down Main Street (packed with people having fun) we saw that it was lined with local vendors offering more free food and drink. Three bands, dancing, dance demos, a full range of antique autos (not so antique to me - more like unfulfilled dreams) such as a 1955 Thunderbird. More autos, including a Maserati but not a Corvette. We even got to go back stage at the Town Hall ARTS Center and watch rehersal of the play, Westside Story, opening soon (we will be attending). Check out the Photo Album. Don't forget to click on the thumbnails for photos you can actually see.

Colorado cities - if you want to pick up some ideas on how to attract out-of-town dollars and make your citizens happy, check out Old Littleton.