Medina, Wadsworth and Kent honored for downtown revitalization at Heritage Ohio awards
Main Street programs recognized for preservation, community engagement and innovative events boosting local economies
Medina, Wadsworth and Kent – among other communities statewide – were honored by Heritage Ohio for their leadership in downtown revitalization and community engagement.
Heritage Ohio
Heritage Ohio has recognized – among several other communities statewide – Medina, Wadsworth and Kent for their outstanding contributions to community revitalization during its 2025 Historic Preservation and Ohio Main Street Awards, held Oct. 15 at the Canton Palace Theatre.
George Sam, executive director of Main Street Medina, was named Manager of the Year for his leadership in strengthening preservation efforts, expanding community engagement and revitalizing Medina’s downtown through strategic planning and innovative projects.
Wadsworth’s annual Scare on the Square event won Best Main Street Committee Event. The popular fall celebration draws thousands downtown each October for trick-or-treating and the city’s viral 300-dancer “Thriller” flash mob, boosting community spirit and supporting local businesses.
In Kent, Lesley Sickle received the Spirit of Main Street Award for her creative branding, community partnerships and leadership in public art that have helped shape Main Street Kent and enhance its downtown identity.
Heritage Ohio is the statewide coordinating agency for the Ohio Main Street Program and the state’s official preservation partner of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The nonprofit supports economic growth through the preservation and revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods across Ohio.
