Buska named new DSBA downtown manager
The Downtown Sandpoint Business Association has a new downtown manager, DSBA President Kathy Friedmann announced today.
Kate Buska, a Montana native who worked the last seven years as public relations manager for the San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau, has taken the position formerly held by Kathleen Hyde. Hyde, who is launching her own marketing business, will continue part-time for the next few weeks to help in transition.
“We are very excited to bring Kate on board,” said Friedmann. “Kathleen has been instrumental in the great progress the DSBA has made the past three years and we now look forward to drawing on Kate’s skills to keep us moving ahead to enhance the economic vitality of downtown. One of her references said she’d be a good catch, and we think she is.”
In her previous position working on behalf of one of the nation’s premiere tourist destinations with more than 32 million annual visitors, Buska was charged with developing and executing marketing and communications initiatives, engaging with consumers and working with more than 1,100 SDCVB member businesses.
Like DSBA, the SDCVB is funded in part through a BID-style tourism district in which members pay assessments. Friedmann noted that Buska’s experience working with and representing such a large and diverse group of stakeholders will be valuable in helping DSBA serve its own 400-plus member businesses.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join the DSBA team,” said Buska. “I am looking forward to getting to know all the members who make up Sandpoint’s vibrant downtown business community.
“Although I have big shoes to fill, there is a wealth of incredible offerings and unlimited potential here in Sandpoint,” she added. “I can’t wait to plunge in, showcasing and supporting our local businesses.”
Buska grew up near Billings, Mont., and holds a degree in political science from The Ohio State University. She and her husband Alex were married in Sandpoint, have family in the area and moved here in November 2010.