5/17/13 - The 7th annual Historic Preservation Awards were hosted by the Howell Downtown Development Authority last night. DDA Director Diane Larking tells WHMI the awards honor building owners who have renovated, maintained, or preserved the historic buildings that characterize Howellâs downtown. She says the historic architecture of Howell is a unique feature that the city can promote and market as a centerpiece to the county. More than 50 people attended last nightâs event, which was held on the third floor of First National Bank. The DDA awarded Casa de Bella on Michigan Avenue the Overhaul Rehabilitation Award for the exterior preservation and interior renovations it has undertaken in the past year. The Preservation Stewardship Award went to Harry Griffith for his work preserving the Crandall Realty building, which is the oldest structure in the entire city. The Yax family, owners of Yax Jewelers, as well as DR Electric on Grand River were both recognized with the new Heritage Business Award. Larking says the award is meant to honor local businesses for their longevity and history of serving Howell residents for decades. At the end of the ceremony the DDA was presented with a book created by the students of the Girls on the Run group, which took a tour of the Fleming School before it was destroyed by fire in January. The book featured photos of the historic building as well as memories of the tour as retold by the girls. (TD)
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