CANYON, TEXAS -- UPDATE:
The efforts to save Tex Randall as he overlooks Highway 60 in Canyon took a giant step forward Tuesday.
The Canyon Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Project have acquired ownership of "Big Tex" and are moving forward with plans not only to salvage the 47-foot tall cowboy, but to create a roadside area complete with a kiosk and information. The project is hoping to combine forces with the other entities raising money to refurbish the 7-ton tourist attraction.
"We're huge steps forward in just establishing ownership and having that done. I think that's the big thing you gotta own something before you can worry about too much work to it,"said Dan Shuman, with the Canyon Main Street Project.
The first priority of course is to refurbish Tex and bring him back to all his glory along with fundraising and grants to ensure his future.
"And we would welcome assistance from groups and individuals that would like to see Tex elevated to the status he deserves. Our first priority is acquiring the funds to refurbish Tex, and provide for the ongoing maintenance of him and his surroundings for years to come," said Shuman.
The Chamber is also backing the project, knowing that Tex is a symbol people immediately recognize as they drive through the city and that he needs a little reconstructive surgery.
"It's also a bit of an eye sore and we really want to improve the looks of our western visitors, so that was another thing that really prompted this decision to move forward with this project," said Cheryl Malcolm, Executive Director of the Canyon Chamber of Commerce.
The fundraising will start this weekend as an information booth will be set up over the holiday weekend in Canyon.
The renovations and new roadside features are expected to take up to 18 months for completion. If you wish to make a donation you can contact the Main Street Project in Canyon.
Previously Posted:
Pronews 7's Steve Myers is at a press conference for Tex Randall, an iconic cowboy in Canyon, that has fallen in disrepair. A local group has started an effort to "Save Tex Randall," here's what has happened so far at the presser.
The group has established ownership and formed a non-profit group, which they say will allow them to go forward with fundraising.
They plan to build a kiosk/visitors center and fix up ole' Tex. Right now they have no idea how much money they will need but expect to meet with other preservation groups, and hope to be finished with restoration and everything in 12-18 months.
Tune in to Pronews 7 at 5,6, and 10 for a more in depth look at this group's efforts to save a Panhandle icon.
Click here to join the Save Tex Randall group on facebook.
