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Authority gives report on state of downtown
Annual DSDA banquet recognizes businesses
april stafford
April Stafford, of Stafford Law Group, LLC, accepts the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority award for "Best Downtown Renovation" from John Roach Thursday evening during the authority's "State of Downtown" banquet at Quality Inn in Statesboro. Roach will be serving on the authority board for 2013. - photo by EDDIE LEDBETTER/staff
The Downtown Statesboro Development Authority honored local businesses during the “State of Downtown” Banquet Thursday evening.The event, held at Quality Inn & Suites, featured an update by outgoing DSDA Chairman Terry Reeves.After his delivery, members Laura Wheaton and John Roach presented the DSDA “Brick Awards” to four downtown businesses which have brought improvements and recognition to Statesboro, he said.The “Heritage Award” was presented to Avel Leon for El Sombrero Mexican Restaurant, a popular eatery that has been with the community for 25 years.The award for “Best New Business” went to 40 East Grill, accepted by Heath Robinson.The “Best Downtown Renovation” award was presented to Stafford Law Group for outstanding remodeling and improvements, while the award for “Best Downtown Supporter” award was given to Sea Island Bank, which has served the community for over 100 years and has been in its current location for 101 years, Reeves said.The night’s event began with a welcome, door prizes and a greeting from state Rep. Jan Tankersley, from Brooklet. She praised efforts to revitalize and improve Statesboro’s downtown district, commending attractions and events including “First Friday” and the city of Statesboro’s decision to expand the education campus downtown.Reeves spoke about the DSDA mission for Main Street Statesboro, which is to revitalize the district economically, socially and other wise, attracting businesses by offering incentives.He also spoke of the “importance of having a vision, having a plan, and having good leadership.”He recounted other efforts the authority has taken to improve downtown, including planting, using attractive signs to promote businesses and other ideas. “Working together works,” he said.
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