MVRP Awards Winners Of Annual Patriotic Spirit Contest

By BRYNNE MCMURRAY

Moapa Valley Progress

American pride was seen across the valley as the Moapa Valley Revitalization Project (MVRP) encouraged businesses to show their patriotism through their annual 4th of July decoration contest.

This is the contest’s seventh year running and every year, a new business wins.
On the day before the holiday, MVRP members drive around Overton, Logandale, Moapa and even the Moapa Paiutes Reservation in search of businesses with store front patriotic decor. They take note of each decorated shop and judge who has the best American appeal.

Recognition is given for the prize winner as well as second and third place.
This year, Sage Health in Overton was awarded third place, Clea’s Moapa Valley Realty placed second and Sugar’s Home Plate came away as the 2019 champion.
“We picked [Sugar’s] not only for their 4th of July decorations, but also for their community service,” said MVRP Treasurer Marjie Holland. “They help to put on different events like the 4th of July picnic and more.”

Sugar’s now takes the travelling trophy plaque from last year’s winner, the Moapa Valley Progress. It will be proudly displayed in the restaurant for the next year until a new winner is announced.

The MVRP members put a lot of thought into deciding the winners each year. Holland explained some of the judging process.

“We don’t pick them if they have won first place in the past,” Holland explained. “If they win second or third, then maybe. We look at how they have helped the community. We look at how they decorate their windows and their storefront. We even try to look at the inside of the store if we can!”

The contest started when the group was formed seven years ago. MVRP members saw how many people already decorated their stores and wanted to give them some recognition for improving the look of downtown Overton during the holiday.

“We started it so people can show their community pride and be patriotic,” Holland said. “The town is really good at that kind of thing.”

The MVRP works to improve community comradery and the quality of life for those who call Moapa Valley their home. They received a grant to create unique street benches along main street and have tried to create a sense of community by encouraging people to shop local.

The winners of the contest were announced at the community 4th of July celebration.