Spirit of Athens to Host Awards Luncheon on January 31

by Diane Lehr, SOA Board Member and Organization Committee Chair

Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 31, 2012, and find out what’s popping downtown.

Spirit of Athens is hosting their highly anticipated Annual Meeting and Spirit Awards Luncheon at 11:30 am in the Rogers Center at First Presbyterian Church on Jefferson Street in downtown Athens.  Come out and enjoy a delicious lunch as you hear about the progress that Spirit of Athens has made in its’ quest to move downtown Athens into a bright and promising future. Awards will be presented to a few of the outstanding volunteers and supporters who have demonstrated great interest and service toward the revitalization of Athens’ downtown.  All of the community is invited to the luncheon, which combines the Spirit of Athens annual meeting with the awards’ presentation. This is a great way to show support for the downtown while celebrating with new friends and a few familiar ones.

Have you been interested in finding out more about Spirit of Athens? This luncheon is a great opportunity to hear about the successes and to acknowledge the people who have worked diligently to keep things moving in the right direction.

Although there will be a few guest speakers, the luncheon is planned with an emphasis on fun and food. Spirit of Athens committee members will be visible and ready to offer conversation or information. Help this organization make Athens’ downtown the most successful downtown in Alabama. Seating is limited for the luncheon. Reservations may be made in several ways and the cost for the luncheon is $25. per person. Attendees will enjoy a special meal prepared by LuVici’s and may partake of a smorgasbord of treats and toppings at the popcorn bar. Information on volunteer opportunities, membership and upcoming events will also be available.

The Spirit of Athens, led by executive director, Trisha Black, follows the National Main Street model. The Main Street Four-Point Approach is a unique preservation-based economic development tool that enables communities to revitalize downtowns and neighborhood business districts by leveraging local assets- from historic, cultural, and architectural resources while hosting and promoting  SOA sponsored community events. It is a comprehensive strategy that addresses the issues that challenge traditional historic downtown districts. The Four-Point approach emphasizes the areas of Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Re-Structuring. All are invited to share their talents and get involved downtown. Come out and enjoy this entertaining and informative event.

Reservations for the Spirit Awards Luncheon, may be purchased online at www.athensspirit.blogspot.com or you can call 256-232-9040, and leave a call back message, or email tblack@athensal.us.  Reservations are due no later than January 27th.