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CHEYENNE – Wyoming Main Street communities, Dubois, Wyo., and Buffalo, Wyo., were named 2011 Top True Western Towns in the January-February 2011 issue of True West magazine.
The honors are given to towns that have made an important contribution to preserving their pasts, according to True West’s editors.
Wyoming’s Main Street program is part of the National Main Street program that strives to make a difference in the lives of Wyoming residents by providing communities the opportunity to revitalize their commercial business districts through economic development and historic preservation.
“Having two Wyoming Main Street communities in the top-10 is truly an honor,” said Mary Randolph, Wyoming Main Street director. “It shows that the work done by local residents in Dubois and Buffalo to preserve their communities is being recognized on a national level.”
Dubois, Wyo., which ranked 2nd in the sixth annual list, was noted for its preservation work and local heritage celebrations. The article stated, “It’s obvious that the locals put a lot of sweat equity into preserving their town.”
Specifically, the Dubois Main Street program was honored for collecting $37,000 for two projects last year including developing design standards for private owners of historic buildings and the hiring of a consulting firm to nominate three or four downtown buildings to the National Historic Register.
“I feel this is an unprecedented opportunity for our town," said June Bonasera, director of Dubois Main Street program. "Dubois has been honored for two years in a row for our efforts to preserve the town`s Western culture. It’s recognition, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity not only to attract visitors, but to attract new businesses. It’s a valuable recruitment tool all the way around. This award puts Dubois on the map. It is something the community can build on and continue the momentum of interest that it creates. Let’s make the most of it.”
Buffalo, Wyo., was ranked 7th and was noted for its American Indian and ranching history as well as local archaeological efforts.
Pendleton, Ore., was rated the top True West town in this year’s rankings.
True West magazine, which has been published since 1953, works to relate history back to present day by showing its readers the important role heritage plays in keeping the spirit of the West alive during everyday travels and adventures out West.
About Wyoming Main Street
Wyoming Main Street is dedicated to providing Wyoming communities with the opportunities to strengthen local pride and revitalize historic downtown districts by utilizing the Main Street Four-Point Approach™.
Wyoming Main Street is a program of the Wyoming Rural Development Council and a division of the Wyoming Business Council.
Wyoming Main Street currently coordinates the local Main Street programs in 14 Certified Wyoming Main Street Communities: Buffalo, Douglas, Dubois, Evanston, Glenrock, Green River, Kemmerer, Laramie, Pinedale, Platte County, Rawlins, Rock Springs, Sheridan and Torrington. www.wyomingmainstreet.org/
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