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Shapiro Administration Congratulates 12 Schools Selected as 2026 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 7 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news:
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Shapiro Administration Congratulates 12 Schools Selected as 2026 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools
The Shapiro Administration created the Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools program to continue the work of the federally disbanded National Blue Ribbon Schools program. Through the program, schools are recognized for academic improvement, academic achievement, school culture and well-being, as well as special education supports.
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania has increased
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 7 -- The Pennsylvania Department of Education issued the following news:
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Shapiro Administration Congratulates 12 Schools Selected as 2026 Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools
The Shapiro Administration created the Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools program to continue the work of the federally disbanded National Blue Ribbon Schools program. Through the program, schools are recognized for academic improvement, academic achievement, school culture and well-being, as well as special education supports.
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania has increasedfunding for Pennsylvania's schools by more than $3 billion - or 35 percent - since the Governor took office. These investments have helped transform schools and enable them to provide a high-quality education to their learners.
November 06, 2026
Harrisburg, PA - The Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) today designated 12 schools in 10 counties as Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools. Through the program, schools are recognized for academic improvement, academic achievement, school culture and well-being, as well as special education supports.
"Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools create the conditions for student success by providing a supportive, welcoming, and safe environment for all learners," said Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe. "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication these schools put into ensuring learners can grow, thrive, and achieve both now and in the future."
Schools selected for recognition as a Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon School represent the very best of public education in the Commonwealth. These schools demonstrate exceptional academic growth, ranking among the top 15% statewide for whole school improvement while showing progress for all student groups. They create inclusive learning environments, support student well-being through strong Student Assistance Programs, maintain high attendance and assessment participation rates, and meet rigorous standards for special education and accountability. In addition, they are safe, well-managed schools that are not identified for improvement or corrective action. From this distinguished group of eligible schools, only up to ten schools are selected each year, making the recognition a testament to sustained excellence, equitable outcomes, and a commitment to helping every student succeed.
The following schools were named Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon Schools:
* Downingtown STEM Academy, Downingtown Area School District, Chester County
* North Penn-Liberty Jr./Sr. High School, Southern Tioga School District, Tioga County
* Chestnut Hill Elementary School, Millcreek Township School District, Erie County
* Pleasant Hills Middle School, West Jefferson Hills School District, Allegheny County
* Shoemaker Elementary School, East Penn School District, Lehigh County
* Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School, Seneca Valley School District, Butler County
* Haverford Middle School, Haverford Township School District, Delaware County
* Skippack Elementary School, Perkiomen Valley School District, Montgomery County
* Eisenhower Elementary School, Upper St. Clair School District, Allegheny County
* Franklin Elementary School, North Allegheny School District, Allegheny County
* Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County, Lackawanna County
* Norwood Fontbonne Academy, Philadelphia County
Under Governor Shapiro's leadership, Pennsylvania has increased funding for Pennsylvania's schools by more than $3 billion - or 35 percent - since the Governor took office, for a total of $11.85 billion invested into Pennsylvania's students this year. The 2026-27 budget builds on the progress we've made over the past three years, providing an overall increase in education funding totaling more than $678 million, including a $565 million increase through the bipartisan adequacy and tax equity formula, a $58 million increase for Basic Education Funding, and a $55 million increase for Special Education Funding. It also continues funding for school infrastructure improvements, universal free breakfast, and mental health in schools.
These investments have helped transform schools and enable them to provide a high-quality education to their learners. Graduation rates across the Commonwealth have risen for three years in a row, more new teachers are being certified, and Consumer Affairs ranks Pennsylvania as one of the top states for quality public education in the country. Over the past two years, 2,000 more students have graduated in four years, and 79,000 more students attended school more regularly. English learner growth during that time has seen the largest improvement historically in Pennsylvania, and Special Education students have been graduating at higher rates, up to nearly 92 percent.
To be recognized, schools must meet the selection criteria outlined on the Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon site. PDE selects up to ten public schools, one occupational career and technical center, and one private/non-public institution for recognition as a Pennsylvania Blue Ribbon School, taking into consideration geographic representation across the Commonwealth and representation of elementary, middle, and high school grade levels.
Pennsylvania's Blue Ribbon Schools will be recognized at an award ceremony during the 2026 SAS Institute held in Hershey this December.
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Original text here: https://www.pa.gov/agencies/education/newsroom/shapiro-administration-congratulates-12-schools-selected-as-2026-pennsylvania-blue-ribbon-schools
Pa. Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Continued Investment in Israel Bonds
HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 7 -- The Pennsylvania Treasurer issued the following news release:
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06 November, 2026
Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Continued Investment in Israel Bonds
Harrisburg, PA - Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced the reinvestment of $20 million with Israel Bonds.
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"For more than three decades, Israel Bonds have been a strong, dependable investment for the Commonwealth. Not only does this investment support our greatest ally in the Middle East, but it has delivered great returns that have benefited Pennsylvania taxpayers."
- Pennsylvania
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HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, Nov. 7 -- The Pennsylvania Treasurer issued the following news release:
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06 November, 2026
Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Continued Investment in Israel Bonds
Harrisburg, PA - Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity today announced the reinvestment of $20 million with Israel Bonds.
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"For more than three decades, Israel Bonds have been a strong, dependable investment for the Commonwealth. Not only does this investment support our greatest ally in the Middle East, but it has delivered great returns that have benefited Pennsylvania taxpayers."
- PennsylvaniaState Treasurer Stacy Garrity
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As of Nov. 1, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department has $64.5 million in Israel Bond investments. This includes the recent reinvestment of $20 million that was initially invested in October 2023 following the Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel. This new bond has a three-year term with an expected return of 5.67% - higher than the 4.81% rate of U.S. Treasury Bonds.
Since 1988, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department has invested $373.5 million with Israel Bonds.
More than $58 billion has been invested in Israel Bonds in its 75 years, including $8.5 billion invested since October 7, 2023. Investments in Israel Bonds support Israel's economic development and have a perfect record of on-time payments of principal and interest.
For the latest Pennsylvania Treasury news and updates, follow PA Treasurer Stacy Garrity on Facebook and @PATreasury on Instagram. You can also sign up for Treasury's newsletter here (https://www.patreasury.gov/newsletter/).
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Original text here: https://www.patreasury.gov/newsroom/archive/2026/11-06-Bonds.html
N.C. Public Safety Dept.: North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Graduates 45th Special Agent Academy Class
RALEIGH, North Carolina, Nov. 7 -- The North Carolina Department of Public Safety issued the following news release:
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November 6, 2026
North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Graduates 45th Special Agent Academy Class
RALEIGH, N.C.
The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) proudly welcomed nine new special agents today at a graduation ceremony held for the 45th ALE Special Agent Academy. The ceremony commemorates 10 weeks of extensive training to prepare the graduates for a rewarding career in law enforcement.
The ceremony was held at the Samarcand Training Academy in
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RALEIGH, North Carolina, Nov. 7 -- The North Carolina Department of Public Safety issued the following news release:
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November 6, 2026
North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Graduates 45th Special Agent Academy Class
RALEIGH, N.C.
The North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division (ALE) proudly welcomed nine new special agents today at a graduation ceremony held for the 45th ALE Special Agent Academy. The ceremony commemorates 10 weeks of extensive training to prepare the graduates for a rewarding career in law enforcement.
The ceremony was held at the Samarcand Training Academy inJackson Springs at 10:00 a.m., Sheriff Cleveland Atkinson Jr., President of the North Carolina Sheriff's Association, served as guest speaker and provided congratulatory remarks to the graduates. The oath of office was administered by Superior Court Judge Adam Elkins.
During the ceremony, Special Agent P. Baulding was awarded the Troy Douglas Carr Memorial Award. The award is given to the trainee that demonstrates outstanding achievement throughout the ALE Special Agent Academy. The recipient is based on overall performance in all aspects during the academy, with special consideration given to dedication, character, and leadership.
Special Agent Troy Douglas Carr was shot and killed in the line of duty on May 14, 1994.
These nine new special agents will be working out of the following field offices across the state.
* District I - Jacksonville
* District II - Greenville
* District VI - Raleigh
* District V - Greensboro
* District VII - Conover
* District VIII - Asheville
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About ALE
The primary mission of Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) Special Agents, as peace officers with statewide jurisdiction throughout North Carolina, is to enhance community safety by addressing criminal activity at both ABC-licensed and illegal alcohol establishments. Authorized to take action against any crime of violence or breach of peace, ALE is the lead enforcement agency for the state's alcoholic beverage control, gambling, lottery, and tobacco laws, with primary authority over nuisance abatement statutes.
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Original text here: https://www.ncdps.gov/news/press-releases/2026/11/06/north-carolina-alcohol-law-enforcement-graduates-45th-special-agent-academy-class
Minnesota DNR Invites Eligible Applicants to Explore New Environmental Grant Opportunity
ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 7 -- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release:
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Minnesota DNR invites eligible applicants to explore new environmental grant opportunity
November 6, 2026
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites eligible organizations to explore a new funding opportunity for projects that protect, conserve, preserve or enhance the state's environment and natural resources. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, Tribal governmental entities, and local and regional governmental entities.
Approximately $4 million
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ST. PAUL, Minnesota, Nov. 7 -- The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources issued the following news release:
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Minnesota DNR invites eligible applicants to explore new environmental grant opportunity
November 6, 2026
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources invites eligible organizations to explore a new funding opportunity for projects that protect, conserve, preserve or enhance the state's environment and natural resources. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, Tribal governmental entities, and local and regional governmental entities.
Approximately $4 millionis available in this funding round, with individual grant awards ranging from $20,000 to $150,000. Matching funds and previous state grant experience are not required. Grants must be implemented within a maximum 12-month project period.
"The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Community Grant Program helps expands access to funding for projects that protect and enhance Minnesota's natural resources," said DNR Commissioner Sarah Strommen. "By simplifying the application process while maintaining strong fiscal stewardship, we can empower communities and organizations to address local environmental needs and create lasting benefits across Minnesota."
The Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Community Grant Program is designed especially for communities adversely affected by pollution and environmental degradation. The Community Impact Funding Round is the program's first funding opportunity and supports eligible projects across the five areas established for the Community Grant Program:
* Helping adversely affected communities respond to environmental degradation and related health concerns
* Providing education and increasing awareness of environmental and natural resources
* Preserving or enhancing natural resources
* Maintaining or improving existing trails
* Managing aquatic invasive species
The Community Impact Funding Round uses a two-stage application process. Stage 1 begins with a short concept note rather than a full application. Applicants invited to Stage 2 will develop a more detailed full application and receive additional technical assistance from the DNR.
From Nov. 5-30, prospective applicants can review the funding opportunity, discuss project ideas with community members and stakeholders, connect with potential partners, and prepare their concept note.
The request for proposal and related application materials are now available on the Community Grants webpage.
Applicant support will be available from the DNR during the preparation and Stage 1 application period. Support includes information sessions, eligibility guidance, application resources and assistance navigating the application process.
Concept note submissions opens Dec. 1 and close at 11:59 p.m. CT on Jan. 7, 2027.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the Community Grants webpage for applicant resources, information sessions, support, frequently asked questions and updates.
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Original text here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/news/2026/11/06/minnesota-dnr-invites-eligible-applicants-explore-new-environmental-grant-opportunity
Md. Agriculture Dept.: Nearly $100,000 Awarded to Grow and Develop Community Gardens and Urban Farms Under Inaugural Grant Program
ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Nov. 7 -- The Maryland Department of Agriculture issued the following news release:
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Nearly $100,000 Awarded to Grow and Develop Community Gardens and Urban Farms Under Inaugural Grant Program
November 5, 2026
(Annapolis, MD) -- The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) announced today that approximately $100,000 will be awarded to 11 urban farms and community gardens through the inaugural Urban Agriculture Grant Program. The funding will help urban producers grow their operations, strengthen neighborhood connections and expand access to healthy, fresh food, particularly
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ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, Nov. 7 -- The Maryland Department of Agriculture issued the following news release:
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Nearly $100,000 Awarded to Grow and Develop Community Gardens and Urban Farms Under Inaugural Grant Program
November 5, 2026
(Annapolis, MD) -- The Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) announced today that approximately $100,000 will be awarded to 11 urban farms and community gardens through the inaugural Urban Agriculture Grant Program. The funding will help urban producers grow their operations, strengthen neighborhood connections and expand access to healthy, fresh food, particularlyin communities with limited access to grocery stores and local produce.
"Urban farms grow more than fresh food--they grow community," said Maryland Department of Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks. "This funding will help urban producers bring more fresh, local options to their neighbors while strengthening community connections and creating opportunities to learn about agriculture."
The Maryland General Assembly has allocated funding for the Urban Agriculture Grant Program annually through Fiscal Year 2029. The program helps new and existing urban producers enhance their communities' access to fresh, healthy produce grown using environmentally sustainable farming practices.
Awards will support capital improvements, including cold storage, post-harvest washing and packing stations, crop protection and food safety training. These investments enable growers to reduce food loss, maintain the quality of harvested produce and strengthen their ability to serve their communities. Funding for educational materials will also help connect residents with opportunities to learn about growing food and caring for natural resources.
The following organizations will receive funding under this inaugural program:
Anne Arundel County
* Annapurna Farm: Owner Sridhar Nimmagadda will use $10,000 to fund a post-harvest wash and pack station, as well as cold storage equipment.
Baltimore City
* Farm Alliance of Baltimore: Will use $10,000 to fund critical cold storage infrastructure and support essential operating expenses.
* Mary Bee Honey Company: Plans to use $5,972 to expand hives and bee colonies, invest in cold storage infrastructure and upgrade honey extraction equipment.
* The 6th Branch: The award of $8,031 will go toward the purchase of vertical propagation equipment.
* Whitelock Community Farm: Will use $10,000 to upgrade their existing post-harvest wash and pack station, and to provide food safety training for staff and volunteers.
Prince George's County
* Agape Farm: The award of $10,000 will fund a cold storage system.
* Asawana Farms: Plans to use $10,000 to fund crop protection; seasonal extension and soil health practices; tools for vertical propagation, harvesting and transport; and the development of educational materials.
* Eco City Farms: Will use $10,000 to fund storage supplies, complete capital repairs from storm damage incurred earlier in the year, upgrade post-harvest wash area and develop educational materials.
* Kathy's Delicious Cakes: Plans to use $10,000 for supplies and to install fencing to protect crops.
* Love Bug Farm: The award of $10,000 will go toward the purchase of a mobile cold storage unit.
Montgomery County
* Practical Botanicals: Owner Kendra Ragland will use $5,997 to install fencing to protect crops.
The next round of grant funding is anticipated to open in June 2027. For more information, please visit MDA's Urban Agriculture Grant Program website (https://mda.maryland.gov/conservation/grants-soil-water-conservation/small-farm-and-urban-agriculture-program/urban-agriculture-grant).
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Original text here: https://mda.maryland.gov/news/nearly-100000-awarded-grow-and-develop-community-gardens-and-urban-farms-under-inaugural-grant
Maine House Democrats Elect Moonen and Rana to Leadership Positions
AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 7 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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House Democrats elect Moonen and Rana to leadership positions
11/05/2026
AUGUSTA - Today, Maine House Democrats re-elected Rep. Matt Moonen, D-Portland, to serve as House Majority Leader and elected Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, to serve as the new Assistant Majority Leader.
"This week, Mainers sent a resounding message that they want a government that stands up for people who need it," said Moonen. "Our caucus brings extraordinary talent, experience and knowledge that will help pass laws that make
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AUGUSTA, Maine, Nov. 7 -- The Maine House Democrats issued the following news release:
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House Democrats elect Moonen and Rana to leadership positions
11/05/2026
AUGUSTA - Today, Maine House Democrats re-elected Rep. Matt Moonen, D-Portland, to serve as House Majority Leader and elected Rep. Ambureen Rana, D-Bangor, to serve as the new Assistant Majority Leader.
"This week, Mainers sent a resounding message that they want a government that stands up for people who need it," said Moonen. "Our caucus brings extraordinary talent, experience and knowledge that will help pass laws that makea tangible difference in the lives of working families. I'm looking forward to working with every member of our caucus to turn our values into results and stand up for the Mainers who need us now."
Moonen will be entering his seventh term in the House, where he has previously been a member of the Taxation Committee and the Chair of the Judiciary Committee. Outside of the Legislature, he is a longtime leader in issue advocacy. He served seven years as the Executive Director of EqualityMaine, the statewide LGBTQ+ advocacy organization, and has worked as a consultant to Maine Citizens for Clean Elections, the Maine Behavioral Health Foundation, the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and Planned Parenthood of Northern New England.
"Every Mainer deserves to live in a state where they have an opportunity to flourish," said Rana. "We want our people to be able to keep their lights on, stay in their housing, afford their groceries and access healthcare. I am so grateful that my fellow House Democrats have elected me to serve as their assistant leader, and we will work tirelessly this session with conviction, purpose and courage to help make that happen."
Rana will be entering her third term in the House, where she most recently served on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee. Prior to her legislative service, she worked as a community organizer and advocate for the people of Eastern and Downeast Maine. This included work to support queer, nonbinary and transgender youth with weekly programming to provide community and guidance in self-advocacy. She has also worked closely with unhoused neighbors and believes that policy change should come from the ground up, from the experiences and voices of those directly impacted.
The leadership team was selected by the incoming Maine House Democratic Caucus. Lawmakers will be sworn in for the 133rd Maine Legislature on Dec. 2, 2026.
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Original text here: https://www.maine.gov/housedems/news/house-democrats-elect-moonen-and-rana-leadership-positions
Fla. Secretary of State Cord Byrd Selects Havana Main Street as Florida Main Street Spotlight
TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 7 -- Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd issued the following news release:
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November 6, 2026
Secretary of State Cord Byrd Selects Havana Main Street as Florida Main Street Spotlight
TALLAHASSEE, FLA. - Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced Havana Main Street, located in Gadsden County, as the Florida Main Street Spotlight.
"I am happy to recognize Havana Main Street as the Florida Main Street Spotlight for their continued efforts to be 'Florida's Friendliest Small Town'," said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. "Through their partnership with local government,
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TALLAHASSEE, Florida, Nov. 7 -- Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd issued the following news release:
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November 6, 2026
Secretary of State Cord Byrd Selects Havana Main Street as Florida Main Street Spotlight
TALLAHASSEE, FLA. - Today, Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced Havana Main Street, located in Gadsden County, as the Florida Main Street Spotlight.
"I am happy to recognize Havana Main Street as the Florida Main Street Spotlight for their continued efforts to be 'Florida's Friendliest Small Town'," said Secretary of State Cord Byrd. "Through their partnership with local government,this ensures the lasting vibrancy of the historic downtown, providing support and legitimacy to the initiative."
Located north of Tallahassee, Havana offers an escape from urban life with its small-town charm, quaint shops and antique stores, unique restaurants, and art galleries. The railroad was vital to its early development, and the town was incorporated on December 5, 1906. It quickly became a major hub for the tobacco industry. The hand-wrapped cigars, like the ones made in Havana, Cuba, leant the town its name.
On a Thursday evening, March 16, 1916, many of the businesses in town were destroyed by fire. Twenty-five buildings were burned, leaving only two stores standing. Despite losing almost the entire commercial core, residents and merchants, fueled by the fast-growing Shade Tobacco industry, rapidly rebuilt brick-and-mortar storefronts to restore the town's market and trade hub. By the early 20th century, Havana became a highway town after the construction of the Old Spanish Trail, one of the first cross country highways in the United States, which continues through Havana from Tallahassee via Highway 27 and turns west towards Quincy via Highway 12. After World War II, the tobacco industry declined, largely ceasing production by the 1970s. Although some area farmers shifted to tomato and ornamental plants, these industries never fully replaced tobacco. Over the years, tobacco crops dwindled and during the 1990s, the Town of Havana became known for its antique shops. As antiques fell out of favor, the town experienced significant vacancies in their downtown.
To remedy this and reactivate the downtown in 2017, Havana took a major step forward by forming Havana Main Street (HMS). HMS also became part of the National Main Street America network focused on vibrant, heritage-driven downtowns. HMS affiliated with the Artists Helping Artists collective to open new galleries and public art displays, and it started a weekly farmers' market along with monthly community bike rides to draw people downtown. The Havana History and Heritage Society Shade Tobacco museum has become a must-see tourist attraction for the area, educating visitors about Havana's history and the tobacco industry.
Annual traditions blossomed as well, hosting popular events like the Havana PumpkinFest and WinterFest festivals, along with art-centric gatherings such as the Painting in Shade Plein Air event and a yearly quilt show. These initiatives have highlighted the charm of Havana's historic buildings and the friendliness of its merchants, celebrating local culture, inviting visitors, and restoring a sense of pride and vitality in the district.
A historic downtown building, the Old Havana State Bank (now the Slappey Building), was restored to serve as HMS's office, visitor center, and community space. Using a 2023 Special Category Grant from the Florida Department of State's Division of Historical Resources, this 100-year-old landmark was renovated by HMS volunteers and local families to preserve its story and repurpose it for modern use. The restored building now houses the Main Street program's offices, a conference room, and rental spaces for local entrepreneurs, all while honoring the legacy of the Slappey family who ran the bank in the early 1900s. The project is a centerpiece of Havana's downtown revitalization and stands as a tangible reminder of the town's heritage and a symbol of the community's commitment to historic preservation.
Since joining the Main Street program in 2017, Havana Main Street has generated $3,606,922.50 in public and private investments. The district has seen an increase of 28 net new businesses, creating 94 net new jobs. The organization has recorded over 17,243 volunteer hours.
For more information on Havana Main Street, visit Havanamainstreet.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
To learn more about the Florida Main Street program, visit FloridaMainStreet.org or follow on Facebook and Instagram.
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About Florida Main Street
Florida Main Street is a program administered by the Division of Historical Resources under the Florida Department of State, which currently oversees 57 communities throughout the state. By implementing the National Main Street Center's Four-Point Approach, Florida Main Street encourages economic development within the context of historic preservation through the revitalization of Florida's downtowns - the community's heart and soul.
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Original text here: https://dos.fl.gov/communications/press-releases/2026/secretary-of-state-cord-byrd-selects-havana-main-street-as-florida-main-street-spotlight/
