Each year, NewTown Macon recognizes businesses, organizations, and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional passion and commitment to the revitalization of Downtown Macon. The awards are given in one of eleven categories: The R. Kirby Godsey Leadership, Juanita T. Jordan Community Service, Growing Jobs, Increasing Residents, Creating a Sense of Place, 360 Degrees, Special Recognition, Emerging Partner, Emerging Leader, Downtown Ambassador, and Spirit of Cooperation. Awards may or may not be given in every category. This year, there were eight recipients.
Kirby Godsey Leadership Award
Presented to an individual whose accomplishments and professional contributions to downtown’s revitalization have been outstanding and innovative. This year’s recipient is Bill Causey. In September 2015, Bill Causey retired after decades of service to Macon-Bibb. He played a large role in helping shape beautiful public spaces in Macon, from the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail to the Amerson River Park to the restoration of Washington Park and Tattnall Square Park.
Emerging Partner Award
Showcases new individuals or organizations becoming involved in the downtown movement. This year’s recipient is Steve Fulbright of Main Street Macon. In 2015, Main Street Macon partnered with NewTown Macon to establish the Downtown Community Association to better address the needs of downtown residents, employees, and business owners. Main Street Macon also partners with other organizations and businesses to create a lasting change and a community spirit in downtown.
Partners in Progress Award for Creating a Sense of Place Award
Winner may establish a popular event; improve the aesthetics of downtown; create a business which attracts people to downtown; protect or preserve an endangered building or property; strengthen the community; or enhance public space. The 2015 award for Creating a Sense of Place goes to Steve Lawson and Sam Kitchens of Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification. Since the consolidation of the government, Macon-Bibb Parks and Beautification has been managing the Amerson River Park, repairing downtown fountains, and improving our downtown green spaces.
Partners in Progress Award for Growing Jobs Award
Goes to individuals, businesses or organization strengthening the quantity and quality of jobs in the downtown area. This year’s recipient is Just Tap’d. This business opened last year and has become a landmark in Downtown Macon in a short time. They’re selection of craft beer, food, their openness to partner with multiple organizations and host events has made Just Tap’d a destination within our downtown.
Partner in Progress for Increasing Residents
Honors a business, organization or individual that is increasing residents in our downtown. The recipient of this award may directly increase residents by renovating or create buildings that house lofts, apartments or condominiums. Alternatively, the nominee could have a less tangible effect by financing residential development or promoting downtown living. This year’s Increasing Residents Award recipient is Lamar Lofts. Lamar Lofts added 38 loft units to Downtown Macon this year.
360-Degree Award
Honors individuals, businesses, or organizations, which are improving all aspects of downtown. The 360-degree award winner exhibits a commitment to all three of NewTown’s focuses: increasing residents, growing jobs and creating a sense of place. This year’s 360-Degrees Award recipient is Macon-Bibb Urban Development Authority for the Macon Action Plan, downtown’s master plan.
Special Recognition Award
Presented to an individual or organization for outstanding efforts in a specific area of revitalization of downtown or community improvement. This year’s Special Recognition Award recipient is Hometown Yoga. Hometown Yoga’s “Hoppy Hour Yoga” program not only creates a vibrant and lively yoga community in Downtown Macon, but also attracts residents to downtown and supports a downtown business in the process.
Downtown Ambassador Award
Goes to an individual or organization acting as a representative or promoter of downtown. The nominee may encourage the community to frequent, live, shop or recreate downtown. The nominee would be characterized as a positive force for downtown. The Downtown Ambassador Award recipient this year is Diana Blair. Diana Blair is downtown business owner and a member of the Downtown Community Association. At any time you can find Diana frequenting a downtown event or supporting another downtown business.
About NewTown Macon
NewTown Macon is a non-profit organization dedicated to implementing the community’s vision of a comprehensive, coordinated, and continuous plan for revitalizing downtown Macon, Georgia. NewTown’s work in downtown focuses on three areas: increasing residents, growing jobs, and creating a sense of place. NewTown Macon’s offices are located at 479 Cherry Street, Macon GA 31201. For more information visit www.newtownmacon.com or call 478-722-9909.