MONROE — Gov. Tony Evers issued a proclamation announcing Main Street Days. 

In Monroe, which has had a Main Street organization (Main Street Monroe, Inc.) since 2005, that includes three honors. Normally recipients would be recognized at a statewide awards ceremony. Originally scheduled for April, it was rescheduled to September, and then canceled. Main Street Monroe has instead held a series of brief awards ceremonies to follow proper social distancing.

Longtime Main Street volunteer Jean Tullett was recognized by the state Main Street as volunteer of the year. 

“Jean is one of the nicest, most humble, and effective volunteers,” Jordan Nordby, Executive Director of Main Street Monroe said. “She’s been part of our Design Committee since the beginning. And let me tell you, she gets things done. It’s been my pleasure working with her.” 

Before that, Tullett served on Monroe’s Business Improvement District Board. She was nominated by her fellow volunteers, paperwork was then submitted to the state committee that approved and bestowed the award to her. Previous volunteer of the year award winners from Monroe have included Tracy Hamilton (Heartland Graphics) and Kareesa Wilson. 

Main Street Monroe was also recognized by the state for Best Image Campaign for last year’s summer theme: “Musical Chairs on the Square.” “Musical Chairs on the Square” was a branding campaign, with the tagline “Make Downtown Monroe your living room,” to attract tourists and locals to downtown Monroe. 

Fifteen local artists were recruited to create pieces of art using Adirondack chairs based on well-known songs by groups like the Beatles, Elvis, Led Zeppelin and KISS. The chairs were made by an Amish vendor in Albany. Three additional sculptural pieces were musical instruments carved by Zoli. Main Street hosted its annual summer kickoff event with pony rides, face painting, lawn games, crafts and history of music booths. Walking tours for summer art students were given, showing how art can be a destination. Facebook posts recognizing the artists reached more than 41,000 people organically. Main Street posted a short video with two of the artists, Suzanne Miller and Janice Douglas, and volunteer Shelly Isely accepting the award.

Lastly, Nordby was recognized for five years of service to downtown revitalization, economic development and historic preservation. Nordby joined Main Street Monroe, Inc. as its executive director in January 2015.