The Downtown Association of Fairbanks Community Services (DAFCS) awarded some of Fairbanks’ best on Thursday, November 14 at the organization’s annual meeting. Each year, DAFCS recognizes the contributions and achievements of stakeholders improving downtown.
Awardees recognized
The Speedy Takedown Award was presented to Stosh Solski to recognize that downtown was improved by the removal of a dangerous building (the former Alaska Motor Inn) and that a revitalization is underway at 4th and Lacey. Seth Church, President of Jewel Isaac, received the award on behalf of Solski.
The Essential Services Award was presented to the Fairbanks Police Department to recognize the professional excellence from FPD’s officers patrolling downtown for the second year in a row, showing that such patrols are effective at providing order and increasing public safety. Deputy Chief Richard Sweet received the award on behalf of FPD.
The Partner of the Year Award was presented to Explore Fairbanks to recognize the breadth of their support for downtown-as-destination, which benefits the entire Fairbanks community. Scott McCrea, President and CEO of Explore Fairbanks, received the award on behalf of EF.
The Revitalization of the Year Award was presented to Gather to recognize the importance of staying downtown when a business outgrows its space and for revitalizing a downtown venue. Isaiah Mangum received the award on behalf of Gather.
New board members elected
The membership re-elected five incumbent board members and elected two new board members nominated “from the floor.” Returning board members include Jackson Fox (FAST Planning), David Hayden (L64 Design), Christine Luper (Edward Jones Investments), Chris Miller (Elbow Room) and Buki Wright. The two new board members are Meredith Maple (Fairbanks Children’s Museum) and Rylieh Bodyfelt (Somers Sotheby’s International Realty).
