Once a year the Laurel Main Street organization honors members of our downtown community for their commitment to the Main Street cause and their dedication to our community with “The One” Awards. The awards were named for a phrase that pops up again and again during brainstorming and event planning sessions: “Those who say it can’t be done should get out of the way of THE ONEs who are doing it!” On September 10, we celebrated the dreamers, the doers, THE ONEs whose desire to leave things better than they found it is evident in all their pursuits.
Downtown Business of the Year
The Loft on Central, a downtown staple for 10 years, is a Laurel Main Street Partner and was named downtown Business of the Year. Their steadfast support of our community includes hosting fundraisers for those in need, animal rescuers, and opening their doors on holidays to feed our first responders. They also lead the way in figuring out how to survive and serve during the Covid-19 crisis of 2020.
Business of the Year – The Loft on Central
Volunteers of the Year
THE ONE Award was presented to two longtime LMS Board Members whose years of service will come to an end this year. Heather Brown and Lew Yoder have seen more than their fair share of sunrises in downtown Laurel while setting up for events. Their dependability is rivaled only by that of the U.S. Postal Service — they truly have served LMS in rain, hail, sleet, and snow, and let’s not forget about hurricanes and tornadoes!
Lew has served as Secretary of the Board, Chair of the Organization Committee, and is the immediate multiple-term Past-President. Lew Co-chaired the Loblolly Festival and chaired the search committee for the new LMS executive director.
Volunteer of the Year – Lew Yoder
Heather also served as Secretary of the Board, Promotions Chair, and Co-chair of the award-winning Magnolia State Bank Chili Cook Off.
Volunteer of the Year – Heather Brown
We appreciate the service of our volunteers, members, and partners, and their dedication to our community.
