York’s Downtown Inc to Present ‘Downtown First’ Awards (April 12)

Downtown Inc will present the 18th Annual Downtown First Awards on Thursday, April 12 at 6 p.m. The event is sponsored by The Glatfelter Agency, which recognizes businesses, organizations and individuals who put Downtown York first through their commitments of time, advocacy and resources.

This year’s Downtown First Awards will take place at the Logos Academy. Tickets are $25 per person to attend and they’re currently available online.

“A healthy and vibrant downtown requires time, energy and investment from many people, businesses and organizations, and the Downtown First Awards give us the opportunity to show our appreciation,” said Silas Chamberlin, CEO of Downtown Inc, Downtown York’s improvement organization. “We thank each nominee for their commitment to creating a downtown district that’s become the creative core of York County and a great place to live, work and visit.”

This year’s keynote speaker, Braddock Mayor and York native John Fetterman, knows a thing or two about urban revitalization. He’ll discuss his thoughts on the revitalization of small boroughs and cities, as well as his connection to the White Rose City.

The doors to the event will open at 5:30 p.m. for registration, with the awards ceremony beginning at 6 p.m. A reception with hors d’oeuvres, as well as complimentary wine and beer, will follow.

The Downtown First Awards will honor individuals, business and organizations in eight categories. Nominated by the public, winners are selected by a committee comprised of several Downtown York stakeholders. Winners are announced during the Downtown First Awards.

This year’s nominees are as follows:

Outstanding Large Business – Sponsored by Susquehanna Real Estate

  •      Business Information Group
  •      Glatfelter
  •      Rite Aid
  •      York Traditions Bank

Outstanding Small Business – Sponsored by Stock and Leader

  •      DiDi & Smiling John’s Barber Shop and Salon
  •      Grace Manor Bed and Breakfast
  •      McCallister & Myers Real Estate Services
  •      Qdot Engineering
  •      Weary Arts Group

Outstanding New Business/Merchant – Sponsored by O.N.E. Hospitality Group

  •      i-ron-ic Squared
  •      Isaac’s On The Fly
  •      Memory Lane Sweets
  •      Revival Social Club
  •      The Handsome Cab

Outstanding Merchant – Sponsored by CGA Law Firm

  •      Brewvino
  •      Cherie Anne’s Courtyard Café
  •      Collusion Tap Works
  •      Global Cafe at Central Market
  •      i-ron-ic
  •      Mudhook Brewing Co.
  •      Sarah’s Sweet and Savory Snacks
  •      The New Hub Store
  •      This Little Light of Mine

Outstanding Nonprofit Organization – Sponsored by the York Revolution

  •      Appell Center for the Performing Arts
  •      Child Care Consultants
  •      Junior League of York
  •      Stick N Move Boxing
  •      York County Hispanic Coalition
  •      York County History Center
  •      York XL
  •      Young Thinkers of York

Better York Appell Beautification Award – Sponsored by Better York

  •      Iron Horse York and Yohn Property Management (One West Project)
  •      Rich Reilly Attorney at Law
  •      The Parliament Arts Organization
  •      York Academy Regional Charter School
  •      York City School Police Department

Outstanding Individual within an Organization or Business – Sponsored by PeoplesBank

  •      Andrew Gobel, Gavin Advertising
  •      Antwoine Dorm, Stick N Move Boxing
  •      Brenda Wintermyer, Just Brenda Art
  •      Caroline Morris, Kimman’s
  •      Kate Harmon, The Parliament Arts Organization
  •      Kim Hogeman, York County Economic Alliance
  •      Matthew Davis, Crocodile Dog Marketing
  •      Randy Flaum, York Storyman

Outstanding Volunteer – Sponsored by C.S. Davidson, Inc.

  •      JJ Sheffer
  •      Jess Ensminger
  •      Karin Swartz
  •      Linda Amos

Don’t miss the opportunity to support the Downtown First Awards nominees and see who brings home an award for helping to make Downtown York a better place for all. Purchase your 18th Annual Downtown First Awards tickets today and show your support on April 12!

  • Photos: Downtown Inc