Jasper County was represented at the 31st annual Main Street Iowa Awards Celebration on Friday at Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines. The program honored the efforts of those who work day in and day out in downtown revitalization in Iowa. The event was attended by approximately 550 individuals representing communities across the state.
Danielle Rogers of the Newton Main Street and Joe Dvorak of the Colfax Main Street were recipients of a Leadership Award. This award is given to inspirational leaders and volunteers who have made significant contributions to the local Main Street programs and downtown revitalization mission.
Both Graham Sullivan, of Newton Main Street and Rebecca Evans, of Colfax Main Street, were recognized at the event for their Designated Main Street Iowa Program and Executive Directors’ Tenure for demonstrating commitment to historic district revitalization and the Main Street approach.
Main Street Iowa has annually presented awards honoring outstanding accomplishments, activities and people that are making a difference in Iowa’s Main Street districts. Projects large and small are recognized and serve as outstanding examples of what historic commercial district revitalization is all about.
“The Main Street Iowa program has stood the test of time since its introduction in 1985. The program continues to bring businesses, jobs, investment and vitality to our states’ communities, both big and small,” Gov. Terry Branstad said. “The Main Street Approach works, and Main Street Iowa has been a national model because we are creative, we embrace change, we demand local initiative and action, while holding strong to our roots as an historic preservation program.”