Action Brown County recognized for revitalization efforts at Illinois Main Street conference

MOUNT STERLING, Ill. — The office of Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton and Joi Cuartero Austin, senior program officer for economic vitality at Main Street America, gave out 14 awards — 10 recognitions for program efforts, two for outstanding volunteers and one each for board member and volunteer of the year — on Oct. 19.

Awards were announced by Jim Miller, new state coordinator for Illinois Main Street, and Quinn Adamowski, regional advocacy manager for Landmarks Illinois.

Action Brown County received the Lieutenant Governor Award for Economic Vitality recognizing the revitalization and relocation of their annual signature events (Winter Festival and Farmers Market).

The Lieutenant Governor Award for Excellence in Revitalization recognizes work in bringing economic prosperity to Illinois communities. Work highlights projects, activities and events focused around The Main Street Approach (Design, Organization, Economic Vitality and Promotion), as well as outstanding volunteers and board members.

“Revitalization is about using talent, resources, new ideas, and paths of collaboration for positive change,” Stratton said in a press release. “I am so proud of this year’s award recipients for their amazing work strengthening Main Street communities after the challenges caused by the pandemic. Because of their efforts, our main streets will continue to provide goods, services, economic opportunities, and jobs that build purpose and a sense of community throughout Illinois.”

“Year round, Illinois Main Street organizations work hard helping businesses and property owners while bringing residents and guests to the heart of their communities,” Austin said. “We are grateful for the opportunity to recognize a reflection of work being done by people for their communities across the state.”

“While the revitalization and relocation of our annual signature events had its challenges, we are ecstatic to now have them housed in our uptown district,” ABC Executive Director Alex Geisler said. “Our intent is to continue adding activities and features to these events, ensuring they grow and attendees receive a premiere holiday experience. Our annual events this year have proved that Brown County residents are more than willing to support their neighbors and friends as small town business owners.”

The Illinois Main Street Conference is hosted in partnership with the Chicago Main Street program, the office of Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Landmarks Illinois and the city of Bloomington.

All projects, activities, or events submitted for recognition/nomination must have been completed in 2021 through June 30, 2022. Volunteer nominations reflect an amalgamation of work done with the Main Street organization and community.

Learn more about Illinois Main Street at ilmainstreet.org.