The Â鶹´«Ã½ Downtown Development Association held its Downtown Distinguished Awards on Thursday evening, July 10, at the Â鶹´«Ã½ Community House. Roughly 40 guests attended to celebrate three downtown businesses and the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The DDA Awards recognize, honor and spotlight members’ businesses that are the heartbeat of downtown Â鶹´«Ã½. In June, the public was invited to vote for the business of their choice in the following three categories: Picture Perfect, With the Cherry on Top and Breath of Fresh Air. There were more than 500 votes cast.
“The response of over 500 votes in our DDA Distinguished Awards survey, with a tight race among multiple businesses right up to the very end, truly speaks volumes,†said Main Street Manager Makenzie McGinnis. “It’s a powerful testament to the incredible quality and dedication of our downtown businesses. They all contribute so much and deserve our recognition and celebration every single day!â€
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The Lifetime Achievement Recipient was nominated and voted on by the Downtown Development Board members.
Benjamin and Libba Belton, owners of Benjamin and Libbas, won the Picture Perfect award.
This is a category that celebrates something we all experience — whether we’re strolling downtown, grabbing coffee or simply passing by on our way to work: visual charm and presence. From thoughtful seasonal decorations to eye-catching merchandising and an undeniable community spirit, this business continually enhances the charm of the streetscape and the spirit of downtown.
The Cherry on Top Award recognizes something that lies at the very heart of every great business — exceptional customer service. This award goes to a DDA member business that consistently goes above and beyond to serve the community with care, attention and genuine hospitality. Whether it’s a warm smile, a thoughtful recommendation or simply taking the time to make someone’s day a little brighter — this business exemplifies what it means to not just meet expectations, but to exceed them. The winner of this category is The Olive of Â鶹´«Ã½.
The third award, Breath of Fresh Air, celebrates innovation, creativity and the power of bringing people together. It goes to a DDA member business that has gone above and beyond in hosting engaging events or programs — whether brand new or beloved annual traditions — that breathe life into downtown and invite the community to come out, connect and celebrate. Through their vision and hard work, they’ve created experiences that don’t just entertain — they energize Â鶹´«Ã½. These efforts contribute meaningfully to the vibrancy of downtown and help make it a destination for both locals and visitors alike. This year’s recipient is West Union Art Studio.
The city of Â鶹´«Ã½ is proud to announce that Jim Pless, supervisor of cemetery and grounds, has been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the beauty and charm of downtown Â鶹´«Ã½.
Pless has poured his passion, creativity and tireless work into transforming Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s public spaces into vibrant displays of seasonal color and natural beauty. From meticulously planted flower beds to expertly maintained greenery, his artistry has helped make downtown Â鶹´«Ã½ a welcoming and picturesque destination for residents and visitors alike. Congratulations, Jim Pless, and thank you for helping Â鶹´«Ã½ bloom.
The Â鶹´«Ã½ Downtown Development Association originated in 1985 as a membership-based organization for local merchants and business owners in downtown Â鶹´«Ã½. With primary focuses on advocacy, lobbying and sponsorship, membership in the DDA also offers a unique networking opportunity with local business owners who face similar challenges and successes.
