Keith Hudson To Be Recognized As Spirit Of Main Street Award Nominee

The Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. would like to nominate Keith Hudson for the 2024 Spirit of Main Street Award.

I am honored to write this letter to nominate Keith Hudson for the Spirit of Main Street Award, recognizing his unwavering commitment and numerous contributions to the revitalization of Downtown Excelsior Springs. Keith’s involvement through the Downtown Excelsior Partnership, Inc. has been transformative, energy infusing, passionate, and has provided invaluable resources to our community.

Keith’s dedication to the promotion of our downtown area is exemplified through his active participation in several committees and initiatives that enhance the cultural and economic vitality of our downtown. As a key member of the promotion team, Keith has been hands-on and instrumental in sponsoring and supporting significant local events such as the Home Brew Competition and the Wine Festival. These events not only celebrate our local culture but also attract visitors from across the region, boosting local commerce and community spirit.

Additionally, Keith’s long-standing involvement with the BBQ and Fly-In as a committee member speaks volumes about his commitment. Each year, he personally purchases and cooks BBQ for the VIP sponsors, ensuring that the event is a delightful experience for all our significant financial contributors and a notable success. His efforts help raise funds that are crucial for sustaining community projects and activities.

In his role on the Design Team, Keith has been a fervent advocate for the streetscape design and development of Lithia Landing. His donation of over 100 bottles of wine, crafted from locally sourced groups, for fundraising efforts showcases his dedication not just to the aesthetic enhancement of our downtown, but also to the project’s economic sustainability. These contributions have been pivotal in advancing our project, further beautifying and enhancing the functionality of our community spaces.

As a member of the Downtown CID Board, Keith consistently demonstrates visionary leadership and a deep understanding of development challenges and opportunities. His insights and foresight have been vital in steering projects that enhance the economic health and architectural appeal of our downtown area.

Keith’s recent initiative to create the Lyrics on the Lawn Summer Music Series is a testament to his leadership and passion for community engagement. This event will not only provide a stage for local talent, but will also become a cornerstone of summer entertainment, offering a free to attend opportunity that will foster a sense of community and local pride. Additionally, he has introduced Open Mic Nights every Wednesday at the Atlas Saloon Brewery and live music on Friday nights. The additions have greatly enriched the nightlife in Downtown Excelsior Springs.

Beyond these organized roles, Keith’s passion as a maker shines through in his brewing at Atlas Saloon Brewery, where he not only crafts unique beverages but also supports our community. His creation of beers like Spreungling, with a portion of sales benefiting local nonprofits such as the Excelsior Springs Museum & Archives, exemplifies his creative engagement and philanthropic spirit.

Keith’s enthusiasm for supporting local business in unparalleled. Keith is the first to utilize and promote tools like the Experience Excelsior Trip Planner. He celebrates every downtown business accomplishment, whether by spreading the word or by providing direct support, helping to cultivate a supportive and thriving downtown business district.

In addition to all of these activities, Keith’s personal contributions to our community our equally impactful. During the local grape harvest season, Keith is often seen helping pick grapes at area vineyards, contributing to our local wine industry and supporting agricultural activities. His active participation in the Friends of the Wells Committee where he is involved in finding ways to restore access to our local mineral waters demonstrates his dedication to both our town’s historic fabric and the economic vitality of our community.

Perhaps what most embodies the spirit of Keith’s contributions is his ubiquitous presence in downtown, where he might one day be found hanging banners, another planting flowers, or even embodying Santa Claus during the holiday season. Whatever the task, Keith approaches it with a heart full of enthusiasm and a commitment to making Downtown Excelsior Springs a better place for everyone.

In conclusion, Keith Hudson is a cornerstone of our downtown community, whose multifaceted contributions have not only helped revitalize Downtown Excelsior Springs but also inspire a collective pride and participation among other community members. His tireless dedication, innovative spirit, and deep love for our community make him an exemplary candidate for the Spirit of Main Street Award.

Thank you for considering this nomination. I am confident that Keith’s achievements and ongoing commitment to our community fully embody the spirit and objectives of this award.