Janna from Sterling Main Street

Janna Groharing from Sterling Main Street joins the Regional Media Podcast Network to share a vibrant update on downtown Sterling's summer activities and community revitalization efforts. She highlights the successful recent car show, which drew 138 registered vehicles despite rainy weather that likely deterred out-of-town attendees, and previews the major event of the season: a half-hour whistle stop on June 2nd when the Union Pacific steam engine returns as part of the America 250 coast-to-coast tour—the first time a steam engine has made such a journey. The city is preparing with food trucks, activities starting at 11 a.m., and a rush to install flower baskets ahead of the event, thanks to a local vendor’s willingness to rework their schedule. Janna also discusses ongoing community engagement through Earth Day cleanups involving students from multiple school districts, the upcoming cruise nights starting June 5th, and the departure of local business Paper and Hyde to Fulton, marking the first of several planned storefront changes. She emphasizes the growing momentum in downtown revitalization, including facade improvements at Dunks and Sock Valley Pawn Loan Shop, and promotes the FISA grant program for property owners seeking to enhance their buildings. The episode closes with a warm endorsement of the Twin City Farmers Market and the broader energy building in Sterling as summer unfolds. Key takeaways include: 1) The Union Pacific steam engine’s June 2nd stop is a major community event requiring early preparation and community-wide participation; 2) Downtown Sterling is seeing renewed investment through facade grants and new business activity; 3) Youth-driven community service events like the Earth Day cleanup are fostering cross-town connections and civic pride; 4) Local businesses are evolving, with some relocating and others upgrading spaces, signaling a dynamic downtown economy; 5) Residents are encouraged to engage through events, sponsorships, and the FISA grant program. The tone is overwhelmingly positive, energized by community enthusiasm and tangible progress.