Louisiana Main Street gathers for winter meeting in Abbeville

Abbeville recently had the privilege of hosting the Louisiana Main Street Winter Meeting.
The Louisiana Main Street program, is a program that spans across more than 36 Main Street areas throughout the state, with growing interest from additional areas. The event was held at Magdalen Place on January 25th and 26th, left a lasting impact on all who attended.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Mayor Roslyn White and Abbeville Main Street Director Charlene Beckett. Their greetings were extended to a diverse group of Main Street representatives, hailing from towns as far north as Springhill and as far south
as the Ninth Ward. Ray Scriber, the Louisiana Main Street State Coordinator, set the stage with his enthusiastic greetings, encouraging introductions and fostering a collaborative spirit among participants.
This Winter Meeting served as a hub for Main Street directors from every corner of the state, bringing them together for an intensive two-day training session. The event emphasized their unyielding dedication to rejuvenating communities and downtown areas, emphasizing the value of shared expertise and endeavors.
A highlight of the event was the keynote address by Jackie Wolven, the Executive Director of Main Street Eureka Springs in Arkansas. Her presentation, titled "Love Where You Live: Community Design Living," deeply resonated with the attendees. Wolven eloquently emphasized the profound importance of cultivating a genuine connection with one's community, drawing upon her extensive 25+ years of experience in corporate, travel, and small business marketing. Her insights illuminated the transformative power of authentic storytelling, which has a far-reaching positive influence on organizations and communities alike.
Throughout the event, participants had the opportunity to explore the historic Sam Guarino Blacksmith Shop and tour the downtown residence of Jimmy and Liz Hebert. The day concluded with a delightful reception held at the charming Café on State, providing an ideal setting for networking and building bonds.
Abbeville took great pride in hosting the Louisiana Main Street program's Winter Meeting.