by Hanna Singh
Ruston boasts a thriving historic Downtown unlike any other, blending beloved historic buildings with celebrated new businesses.
Each year, the heart of Downtown Ruston is celebrated in an honorary breakfast sponsored by Experience Ruston, where the prestigious Main Street Awards are presented to local business owners who make Ruston’s Downtown shine.
The 2024 Main Street Awards recognized four passionate and hardworking business owners for their contributions to the community. Heath and Lisa Hightower of Sundown Tavern received the Historic Preservation Award for their dedication to preserving Ruston’s character. The Downtown Difference Maker Award was presented to Cyndy Drewry of Cotton Top Print Shop, while Jayne Jenkins and the team at Board & Bottle earned the New Business of the Year Award. Patricia Willis and The Children’s Shoppe were honored as the Main Street Business of the Year.
Owner of Board & Bottle, Jayne Jenkins, expressed her gratitude for the support she’s received from the Ruston community and city.
“I’m just so incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far, and to be a part of the amazing community of Downtown Ruston,” Jenkins said. “I’ve had so many challenges navigating through an entirely new business, but I’ve been met with nothing but encouragement and support from the community, the city, my staff, friends and family. I’m incredibly humbled and thankful.”
Owner of Cotton Top Print Shop, Cyndy Drewry, encouraged others to visit Downtown Ruston and experience all that the small businesses have to offer.
“Anyone who knows me knows that I love working in Downtown Ruston. It is a neighborhood of businesses that only want each other to do well,” Drewry said. “Our downtown is beautiful, and we have out of town visitors just about every day to see it. If you haven’t been here lately, it’s time to walk through and see what you’re missing, then get some delicious food and drinks and relax. Ruston is a destination now, so come downtown and see why.”
With Ruston’s ever-growing Downtown area, the college town is becoming quite the destination for travelers. Ruston is the perfect small-town vibe with big-town energy for those wanting to shop, stroll and discover local restaurants. Visitors can experience the love and charm of shopping and dining at locally owned businesses, while still finding an array of unique treasures to take home and delicious culinary delights to enjoy.
Main Street Director and Community Coordinator, Amy Stegall, described the role that local business owners play in shaping the vibrant culture of Ruston’s Downtown.
“The Downtown Ruston Awards honor the incredible merchants who serve as the backbone of our community. Their unwavering dedication goes beyond supporting our local economy, it enriches the very spirit of Ruston,” Stegall said “These are the people who champion our local teams, greet visitors with warmth, and help make Ruston the unique and beloved place we all cherish. Simply put, we are better because they are here.”
The Downtown Ruston Awards not only celebrate the dedication and hard work of the local business owners but also highlights the unique and spirited culture of Ruston. The preservation of the cherished history of Downtown in collaboration with the strong innovation of new businesses allow Ruston to continue to grow and thrive. The businesses and individuals who received the Main Street Awards exemplify the heart of what makes this community so special.
