Jasper, Ala. (Aug. 21, 2025) — Jasper Main Street is excited to announce it was recognized for its impactful work at the 12th Annual Awards of Excellence Banquet held in Jasper, Alabama on Thursday evening. The event was sponsored by Energy Southeast, UB Community Development, and the Walker Area Community Foundation. The Awards of Excellence committee selected Jasper Main Street for the following:
- Non-Historic Building Design – The Sanctuary, accepting the award was developer, Nina Soileau and property manager, Kendra Brown
- Historic Building Design – Sherer Auditorium Conversion into Jasper City Hall, accepting the award was Mayor Gary Cowen (center) and members of the Jasper City Council – Jennifer Smith, Jenny Short, Josh Gates & Kathy Chambless, City Clerk
- Fundraising – Jasper Welcome Center & Museum, Accepting the award were members of the JMS Board of Directors Gina Scruggs, Matthew Laird, Drew Gilbert, Judge Allison Jones, Lisa Killingsworth, Holly Trawick & Terra Mortensen, JMS Grant writer
- Reinvestment Award for over $40 million in public and private investments into Downtown Jasper, award was accepted by Renae Wilson with JMS & Judge Allison Jones, JMS Board Chairman
“Last night’s event was a heartwarming celebration of the remarkable achievements of our local Main Street programs,” said Wirth. “The inspiring success stories shared at the event truly highlighted the essence of community spirit and collaboration. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of Main Street’s Four-Point Approach in fostering economic development and preserving historic areas.”
Local programs also selected a Main Street Hero that honored an individual, business, or organization that made an outstanding contribution to their program. These Heroes were recognized at the Toast to Heroes Reception sponsored by Regions Bank prior to the banquet. Mark Wilson, CEO of The Bank of Walker County and JMS volunteer, was chosen for the work performed and positive impact he has made on behalf of Jasper Main Street and the community.
“Mark Wilson is our reliable go-to guy who never seeks the spotlight. As CEO of Bank of Walker County, one of Jasper’s major financial institutions, he’s a wizard at managing complex data, yet he’s no stranger to loading tables, chairs, and pitching in wherever needed,” said Mike Putman, executive director of Jasper Main Street. “Mark believes in Downtown so much that years ago, he bought historic property right in the heart of the community, just a short walk from the center of Jasper.”
Main Street Alabama is a non-profit organization which stresses public-private partnerships, broad community engagement, and strategies that create jobs, spark new investment, attract visitors, and spur growth in core commercial districts. Main Street builds on the authentic history, culture, and attributes of specific places, to bring sustainable change. For a list and location of all 34 Designated and 32 Network Main Street Alabama communities, visit mainstreetalabama.org/our-communities.
With a mission to preserve and enhance the historic charm and integrity of our community, Jasper Main Street encourages local spending, tourism, economic vitality and a sense of community. Jasper Main Street has grown and built a diverse group of volunteers dedicated to fulfilling the organization’s mission. Connect with JMS at jaspermainstreet.com and on social media @jaspermainstreet.
