MAIN STREET NEWS

Lumberton is honored to name Tommy and Gidget Vickers their 2025 Main Street Champions.

“Pilot Mountain is home.” Says Christopher and Amanda Cook. “Our families, our kids—even our great-great-grandparents—are from here. This is where we plan to stay, and we want our community to be healthy and thriving.”

The City of New Bern Parks & Recreation Department is a powerhouse of community engagement, partnership, and event coordination—bringing energy and connection to downtown year-round.

“What I love most about Wake Forest is the sense of community. Everybody knows each other, helps each other, and truly looks out for one another. It’s rare and special.

Graham “Bear” Ray, owner of Black Bear Tattoo, brought new life to downtown Elkin when he relocated his business in 2023.

Elizabeth City recognizes Breanne Scribner and Lindsey Lynam as their 2025 Main Street Champions.

Clinton is proud to recognize Mary Rose as its 2025 North Carolina Main Street Champion.

For two decades, City Manager Rick Howell has been a driving force behind the revitalization of Uptown Shelby. Since 2005, he has led with vision, collaboration, and a deep belief in Shelby’s potential.

“I want reasons for people to call Murphy home.” says Victoria Ivie, Executive Director of the Cherokee County Chamber of Commerce.

Marion is a place where community spirit thrives — and people like Walt Bagwell make all the difference.

“I’m very honored,” Saundra said. “This award is for important people, and I feel like I’m just a small part of the community.” To Uptown Roxboro, Saundra Shoe is anything but small.

When Warner Dodson retired from a lifetime of service — first as a military veteran, then as a lineman — slowing down wasn’t an option.

Sheila Crunkleton is an advocate for community growth and engagement.

“Downtown Reidsville is where our dreams took root—and where we’re helping others grow theirs.” Says Eden Combs.

Pam Poplin’s story is one of quiet leadership and unwavering dedication.

A passionate historian, Todd Johnson has long worked to preserve Smithfield’s heritage. In 2025, that dedication reached new heights when the historic downtown theater—operating since 1935—was almost sold to a church, Todd stepped in.

When Grant Goings arrived in Wilson in 2005, he saw downtown not just as a district—but as the catalyst for citywide economic development.

Since 2012, Jewelers on Main has been part of the heartbeat of Downtown Mooresville.

Karen Foley has become one of Downtown Edenton’s brightest lights, using her talent and passion to celebrate the people and places that make the community shine.

If you’ve walked through Downtown Pittsboro and felt the mix of small-town charm and forward momentum, you’ve seen Mayor Kyle Shipp’s leadership in action.

“Volunteering with Downtown Salisbury, Inc. has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It's inspiring to see how our efforts can make a real difference in our community,” Rosalind Hines shared with Downtown Salisbury Inc. Director.

“Serving is the cornerstone to the community,” is Joyce’s mantra.

For 26 years, Julie Donaldson has been a guiding force in downtown Sylva as Director of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.

When Jay Brown opened Jay Brown Realtors in downtown Hickory, he wasn’t just launching a business—he was making a commitment to the community.