SALEM, Oregon – Oregon Main Street announced its 2025 “Excellence on Main” award winners on October 8 during the Opening Session of the Main Street conference in downtown Albany. Created in 2010, the annual Excellence on Main awards honor the outstanding people, projects and activities that are helping to sustain and enhance historic downtowns across the state. This year’s edition saw the acknowledgment of 11 remarkable projects and activities as well as recognition for 6 Standout Volunteers. Denise Emmerling-Baker is the recipient of one of the Standout Volunteer certificates for her contributions to Main Street Cascade Locks.
Denise Emmerling-Baker is the driving force behind the creation and success of Main Street Cascade Locks. Since moving to the community in 2021, she has dedicated over 750 volunteer hours and substantial personal resources to transform a loosely connected group into a fully recognized Oregon Main Street Affiliate in under a year. As founding board president, Denise led incorporation, fundraising, and strategic planning, securing a $400,000 revitalization grant and building strong community support. Her deep commitment, expertise, and tireless work behind the scenes have been instrumental in turning vision into action—making Main Street Cascade Locks a vibrant, impactful organization poised for lasting success.
“Denise has been a true spark for Cascade Locks, bringing people together, rolling up her sleeves, and turning big ideas into real results,” said Sheri Stuart, state coordinator of Oregon Main Street. “Her passion and dedication are exactly what make Main Street communities so special—she’s helping create a downtown that’s welcoming, lively, and full of opportunity for everyone.”
The Excellence on Main awards underscore the diverse facets of the Main Street Approach™, a comprehensive strategy developed by the National Main Street Center, which is embraced by Oregon Main Street Network communities. Through this approach, communities thrive by leveraging innovative projects, community-focused programs, and historic preservation to improve their vitality and enrich residents’ lives.
The Oregon Main Street program empowers local economies, fosters community connections, and enhances the overall appeal of the state. The network of local Main Streets working within the Oregon Main Street program is a testament to the transformative impact of collaborative efforts, nurturing vibrant environments for residents, visitors, and workers alike. Discover more about the Oregon Main Street program’s influence by visiting www.oregonmainstreet.org.