On The Town

On The Town: ARock Spotlight

Autumn Brockman’s journey to founding San Angelo’s ARock salon defies convention. Originally from Vernon, Texas, she arrived in the mid-90s with dreams of becoming a nurse practitioner. However, her innate talent as a makeup artist emerged, gaining recognition in Los Angeles as both an artist and model.

Featured in magazines like Street Customs and Maxim, Brockman’s career soared. Pursuing a degree in Cosmetology in 2008, she planted roots in West Texas in 2013, establishing ARock in San Angelo. Describing ARock as an edgy salon, Brockman emphasizes innovation, urging her team to create eye-catching work while staying attuned to trends. In 2018, she elevated the beauty industry in San Angelo by relocating ARock to a remodeled 4800-square-foot facility, expanding services to include massage therapy and makeup courses. Embracing social media, Brockman scouts Instagram and Facebook for emerging talent, leveraging it to grow her brand. With over 33,200 fans on Facebook in 2019, ARock continues to flourish, guided by Brockman’s commitment to individual growth and building personal empires in the evolving beauty industry.

Glowing Strong

at 25: Concho Christmas Celebration

In 1994, entrepreneur Lee Pfluger’s vision gave birth to the Concho Christmas Celebration, a festive spectacle that has since become a cherished San Angelo tradition. Now, under the capable leadership of Jovan Pickett, the event coordinator, the celebration marks its 25th year with a promise to make everything brighter and more magical.

The Concho Christmas Celebration began as a walking tour of Christmas lights at El Paseo de Santa Angela, featuring twenty-one sponsor Christmas Cards. In 1996, it found a permanent home along River Drive, evolving into a 2.5-mile driving tour along the Concho River, adorned with over three million lights. This annual celebration kicks off the holiday season early in December, transforming the city into a festive wonderland with signature events like the Community Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and the Lights of Christmas Parade.

The festivities have expanded over the years, offering a range of activities, from the Bike Through the Lights and Tuba Christmas concert to the enchanting Kayak through the Lights, providing a nighttime float beneath the twinkling lights along the Concho River. Concerts at the Pavilion feature local community bands presenting the music of the season, and a Live Nativity Scene adds a touch of tradition to the celebration.

As a driving force in the economic vitality of the Concho Valley, the Concho Christmas Celebration draws visitors from surrounding areas, other states, and even countries, turning San Angelo into a bustling hub during the Christmas Lighting Event. The designated bus and large RV route ensures a seamless journey for those exploring the festivities on wheels.

FUN FACTS:
Concho Christmas Celebration uses a staggering 3 million lights for the tour.

The 2022 Tour of Lights saw an impressive 14,084 cars and welcomed 62,000 visitors.

Visitors from other cities in Texas shared their experiences through 1,015 survey cards.

The top 3 Texas cities represented by the surveys were Ballinger, Miles, and Christoval.

The top 3 states represented were New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Colorado, with a total of 30 states in attendance.

In 2022, 340 people volunteered as Community Hosts.

A recommended $8 donation per vehicle driving through the tour supports event oversight, light scene maintenance, and supplies. Funds also cover electricity, advertising, security, signage, transportation, and lunches for the dedicated trustees constructing the light scenes.

In preparation for the 2023 event, a whopping 1200 feet of rope and icicle lights, along with over 18,000 bulbs, have been ordered.

Parade entries for 2023 are limited to 80, with the parade starting upon sunset on Saturday, December 2, 2023.

The Light Tour commences at Bryant Blvd and 1st St., just north of the main post office, with a soft opening on Friday, 

December 1st. An opening ceremony on December 2, 2023, at 5:15 PM, marks the official start, running from 6 PM to 10 PM on weeknights and extending to 12 AM every Friday and Saturday night in December.

For more details and to stay updated, visit www.conchochristmascelebration.com. As the Concho Christmas Celebration illuminates the city for its 25th year, the magic of the season is set to captivate hearts and create lasting memories for all who join in the festivities along the Concho River.

Tradition Meets Trend in Historic San Angelo

In the heart of Historic Downtown San Angelo, nestled within the walls of the old Ark Light Building on the corner of Concho and Chadbourne, Heritage Haus Clocks and Gifts stands as a testament to time, tradition, and the charm of small-town commerce. 

Established in 1985, this family-owned gem has evolved from a humble clock shop into a beacon of illuminationv as the sole lighting store in San Angelo.

Mary Ann Corley and Martin Valis, the dynamic duo at the helm, have transformed Heritage Haus into a multifaceted emporium. No longer confined to only the ticking realm, the shop now boasts an impressive selection of lighting fixtures, proudly distinguishing itself as the go-to destination for quality ceiling fans in the area.

The heartbeat of Heritage Haus is its dedication to the timeless craft of clockmaking. Specializing in both the sale and meticulous repair of clocks, Mary Ann and Martin have honed their skills, becoming artisans of horology. Their expertise extends beyond the conventional, encompassing a diverse range of timepieces from renowned brands such as Howard Miller and Rhythym Small World Clocks. Whether you’re in search of a majestic floor clock, an elegant wall clock, an oversized statement piece, a charming mantel clock, a versatile table clock, or even a weather and maintime instrument, Heritage Haus has it all.

As the only lighting store in town, Heritage Haus takes pride in offering not just any ceiling fan but the quality – Casablanca Ceiling Fan. No more settling for wobbly, discount store fans; step into Heritage Haus today and discover why your next fan should be a Casablanca.

Beyond timekeeping and cooling breezes, Heritage Haus is a haven for those seeking the perfect gift. Navigating through the store, visitors are greeted by an array of treasures catering to the discerning taste of the “Hard to shop for.” From the mesmerizing Galileo Thermometers to exquisite jewelry boxes and the rustic allure of mesquite products, Heritage Haus unveils a world of thoughtful and unique gift options.

The charm of Heritage Haus lies not only in its diverse offerings but also in the warm embrace of customer service that Mary Ann and Martin extend. With a passion for their trade and a wealth of knowledge, they stand ready to answer questions, make repairs, and guide customers through the enchanting variety of clocks, fans, and gifts.

In the heart of San Angelo, Heritage Haus Clocks and Gifts beckons to those who appreciate the artistry of time, the allure of quality lighting, and the joy of finding that perfect, elusive gift. Step into this time-honored establishment, where every tick of the clock resonates with the spirit of heritage and the promise of timeless elegance.