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ZEPHYRHILLS . . . a hidden gem the appearance and economic stability of downtown business districts. In many small communities, the downtown is in a serious state of decline. Effective solutions to the problems of deteriorating building stock, loss of business and the waning economic strength of downtown are crucial to the survival of the city itself. There are many reasons for a community to actively encourage the revitalization of their downtown. An economically healthy, historic downtown Zephyrhills: Builds a positive image for the community. An attractive ��- ture. Creates job opportunities by attracting new industry and strengthening services and retail job markets. Saves tax dollars by stabilizing and improving the area’s tax base and protecting the investment already made in downtown infrastructures. Preserves the community’s historic resources. In an economically healthy downtown, property owners can afford to maintain the historic commercial buildings and preserve an important part of the community’s heritage. I was able to sit down with Main Street Coordinator Anna Stutzriem, who manages the organization and works hand in hand with the Main Street Zephyrhills Board, The City of Zephyrhills, and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). Anna’s excitement about the city was contagious. It is clear that she has a genuine love for her job and her community. Anna beamed as she announced to me that her organization had just received national accreditation. Main Street Zephyrhills is very active within the district. She had just returned from the National Conference in Seattle, Washington where she met with other Main Street organizations across America. There, professionals gather to further their education, learn from each other and share in how they can improve and innovate their main streets and downtown areas. These quarterly conferences have inspired a lot of change to downtown Zephyrhills. Main Street is a beautiful stretch of road that is adorned with old fashioned street lights and red brick accents. There is a pocket park between two historic store fronts that is the home of Splash on 5th Ave, a mural depicting �� its kind in the area, with wings made from the splashes of water that people can stand in front of for photos. Many post their creative shots on social media with the hashtag #splashon5thave. The mural was painted by artist Ana Brice Bain of Anything Art and was funded by the annual haunted house that volunteers put on each year in conjunction with the Main Street Zephyrhills organization. One example of a creative idea that Anna learned and implemented was to pipe music down the entire downtown stretch from speakers that were purchased by the organization. The mu- �� Now Open! J&M BBQ Dine In or Take Out HOURS: Tuesday-Friday: 11am 8pm; Saturday: 12pm - 9pm LUNCH SPECIALS Starting at $6 Includes FREE Drink Welcome to our Backyard! SANDWICHES 1/4 Chicken Dark Meat 1/4 Chicken White Meat Smoked Pork Sausage Smoked Beef Sausage Backyard Pork w/Coleslaw Spare Ribs Spare Ribs/Thin End Chopped Chicken MORE MEAT! 1/2 Slab of Ribs Whole Slab of Ribs 1/2 Chicken Whole Chicken SIDE DISHES Choose from Small or Large Mac & Cheese / Cole Slaw Baked Beans / Green Beans Collard Greens/Potato Salad DINNERS (Choice of 2 Sides) 1/4 Chicken Dark Meat 1/4 Chicken White Meat Smoked Pork Sausage Smoked Beef Sausage Backyard Pork w/Coleslaw Spare Ribs Spare Ribs/Thin End (Combo Meats Available Upon Request) 5151 GALL BLVD. FAMILY MEAL DEALS Available 4 Servings of Meat & 4 Sides ALSO SERVING DESSERTS! ZEPHYRHILLS, FL 33542 813.702.6022 @J&MBBQUE JM_BBQ NOW SERVING BEER & WINE Happy Hour Specials! �� Hair Designs by Jay 38602 South Avenue • Zephyrhills Hair Designs by Jay Zephyrhills 863.514.3934 �� 813.682.9364 MAY/JUNE 2019 • 25