Main Street Chanute recognized several local businesses and volunteers with awards at their recent Main Street Chanute annual meeting on Thursday, June 12.
Attendees gathered for a meal, auctions, socialization, and awards for 2024. Also present was Debbie Deere, from Kansas Main Street, a program of the Kansas Department of Commerce.
Main Street Chanute has been a member of Kansas Main Street since 1984 when it became a designated Main Street Community.
“That sounds easy but trust me, there is a lot to it,” Deere said.
Deere highlighted that Chanute was one of the first communities to receive a Rooms Grant, which aims to restore housing in the upper levels of historic downtown buildings.
“We are very proud of the accomplishments of Chanute Main Street at the state level,” Deere said. “Chanute has a vibrant and active downtown.”
Deere said she observed cars traveling through Main Street, people visiting shops downtown, and bustling activity, which are all signs of a thriving downtown.
“Main Street and downtowns are the heart of our communities,” Deere said.
Master of Ceremonies Scott Cunningham highlighted the year’s accomplishments including programs such as Main Street Revitalization and Incentives Without Walls. Both programs offer an interest-free loan for building improvements. In total, these programs have loaned a total of $284,829.69. Since Main Street Chanute’s inception, total reinvestment into downtown has surpassed $20 million.
Highlighted events include the weekly Main Street Farmers Market, the annual St. Patty’s Day celebration, Artist Alley, Trick or Treat on Main, the Spook Parade, Shop Small Saturday, and the annual Christmas Parade of Lights.
New members were recognized: Hitch and Hoedown Wedding and Party Rentals, SEK Solar, Ameriprise Financial Services, Roscoe’s Lawn Care, and Seely Plumbing.
The Appreciation Award was presented to The Hangout and was accepted by owner Jessica Phillips.
“From the day they opened this business has been a staple in our community,” Cunningham said.
Phillips said receiving the award was a surprise.
“I am so happy to be a part of this community,” Phillips said.
The Economic Investment Award was given to Howard’s Toys for Big Boys Antique Car Museum and was accepted by Rusty Alger, who recently took over the business after Howard Alger’s passing.
Derek Sharp was awarded the Individual Volunteer Award for his work in organizing Christmas in the Park.
“I care a lot about Main Street Chanute and Christmas in the Park,” Sharp said. He said he hopes the event continues and hopes to see lights all the way down Main Street in future years.
The Group Volunteer Award was presented to the Chanute Future Farmers of America chapter for their assistance in putting on events.
“For these kids to get to do something for the community is just really awesome,” FFA Advisor Zackary Callaghan said. “It’s something we love to see in FFA and love for our members to do.”
Callaghan accepted the award along with Chapter officers, Wyatt Stephenson, Bailey Schulz, Peyton Jesseph, and Autumn Waggoner.
The Main Street Community Award was given to Cardinal Drug Store and Gifts, and accepted by owner Joel Norris.
“As I look out over the room this evening, I see passion and dedication. Challenges arise, and when they do, you step up and adjust.” Main Street Chanute Vice President Denise Hastings said. “ We thank each and every one of you. We work on your behalf and we would not be here if not for your commitment to Main Street Chanute.”
To learn more about Main Street Chanute, visit https:// www.facebook.com/Main-StreetChanute.
