Submitted by Olympia Downtown Alliance
The Olympia Downtown Alliance hosted its highly anticipated 26th Annual Meeting on Monday, January 29, 2024, at The Heritage Room. The event celebrated the downtown area’s progress and growth and provided a platform to acknowledge outstanding individuals and businesses that have made a remarkable impact on the community.
The evening commenced with a comprehensive review of the accomplishments of 2023 and an insightful glimpse into the Alliance’s program of work for 2024. Distinguished speakers at the event included Todd Cutts, the Executive Director of the Olympia Downtown Alliance, Mayor Dontae Payne of the City of Olympia, and Casey Kilborn, VP. Retail Banking Manager from Olympia Federal Savings. Kilborn invited clients and Legends Arcade owners Patrick and Christina Costelo to share highlights about their downtown business.
The night also featured a panel of downtown business and property owners sharing fresh insights about their investments in the downtown area. Cher Hobbick shared details of the proposed new food hall, Alt 15, at the site formerly occupied by the Community Care Center. McKenna Weiks discussed plans for her company, Corpsmart, to relocate into and rehabilitate the recently purchased former “Level” nightclub. Monique Ossa discussed her collaborative business model approach and the recent purchase of her building. And Malachi Corsini captured the audience’s attention by discussing his unique approach to small business development taking root at his business, Frankly Earth.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of awards to deserving community members, recognizing their exceptional contributions. Among the honorees was Austin Davis, recipient of the 2023 Design Award for his skillful sign work at 222 Market and dedication to mural restoration efforts across downtown. John Tafejian received the 2023 Golden Paintbrush award for his dedication as a volunteer and painter for LoveOly Painters. John is known throughout the community for his work painting geometric murals in many downtown locations
Additional accolades were bestowed upon The Popinjay, named the 2023 Business of the Year for its 46-year legacy as a landmark in Olympia. The Popinjay has played an instrumental role in community events such as ArtsWalk, shopping promotions, holiday parades, Music in the Park, and more. The Hands On Children’s Museum earned the title of the 2023 Non-Profit of the Year for its pivotal role in downtown revitalization, highlighting its position as an essential element of the city’s vibrant heart.
The finale of the ceremony was awarding Dean Jones, owner of Encore Chocolates & Teas, the distinction of 2023 Person of the Year. Dean’s exceptional leadership as a Past President of the Alliance, his unwavering commitment to the community, and his business’s role as a downtown landmark were acknowledged and celebrated.
The Olympia Downtown Alliance takes immense pride in honoring these individuals and businesses for their extraordinary contributions, which have collectively enhanced the fabric of downtown Olympia, making it a better place for all.
