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2022 NC Main Street Champion
Jim Wantuch was a transplant from South Bend, Indiana, who came to Forest City via the corporate world. After taking early retirement in the year two thousand, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of owning an antique store. Along with his wife Linda, he operated their business Dovetails and Rusty Nails, a vital part of Main Street Forest City.
As an active member of the Forest City Merchants Association, Jim worked tirelessly behind the scenes of the annual Hot Nights Cool Rides Car Show and the Forest City Christmas parade. He encouraged other merchants to open during events, saying, "Folks may be here only for the event, but chances are if they walk into the store, they'll buy something; if not today, then next week!” Sadly, Jim passed away in February of two thousand twenty-two after a brief illness. His contributions to Main Street Forest City are long lasting and we are honored to posthumously recognize Jim Wantuch as Forest City’s two thousand twenty-two Main Street Champion.