By BOB SHRALUKA
WZBD.com
“The future of downtown Decatur is bright, and we’re just getting started,” Decatur Main Street said in a statement following the announcement that it has been officially recognized as an Indiana Accredited Main Street program by the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) and the office of Micah Beckwith, Indiana’s Lieutenant Governor.
The local organization is one of 12 which have been recognized as Indiana Main Street programs or have moved into a new Indiana Main Street level, according to the announcement by Beckwith’s office.
The designation recognizes communities that meet the national standards set by Main Street America and are committed to strengthening their downtown through economic development, historic preservation, and community engagement.
“Being named an Indiana Accredited Main Street is a huge step forward for our organization and our community,” the Decatur group said in the statement.
“It opens the door to additional training, resources, and partnerships that will help us continue to grow and support the businesses, events, and experiences that make downtown Decatur special.
“We’re incredibly grateful for our volunteers, businesses, board members, and community members who make this work possible. This achievement belongs to all of you!”
“Leveling up or joining the Main Street program is a huge advantage for these organizations and communities,” OCRA Executive Director Fred Glynn, who visited Decatur to make the designation official.
“Congratulations to all 12 of these Main Street groups. I can’t wait to see what our new organizations accomplish and how the ones leveling up make an even greater impact.”
“Rising up the ranks or becoming a part of the Main Street program is a tremendous benefit for these communities,” the Beckwith statement said. “I’m excited to see what the future holds for these organizations.”
Boonville Now and Discover Downtown Washington also received the Accredited Main Street designation.
In this area, Columbia City Connect became a Nationally Accredited Main Street.
NEW POST: Decatur Main Street, a volunteer organization, in late December named Taylor Braun to its first salaried position: executive director.
Local businessman/historian Max Miller is president of Decatur Main street.
The organization says it promotes and stimulates the downtown economy by orienting people to the downtown district, targeting diverse audiences and consumers, and highlighting different downtown venues.
The local volunteers hold numerous events during the year, including the popular Downtown Decatur Day. Earlier this month a Murder Mystery Dinner Scavenger Hunt was held, with nearly 40 participants.
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