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IBAT Honored With Distinguished
Governor's Award For Historic Preservation
 The Texas Historical Commission (THC) recognized the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) with the prestigious Governor's Award for Historic Preservation on July 28 at a reception at the Governor's Mansion. Gov. Rick Perry presented the award to representatives of IBAT in attendance.
"The Independent Bankers Association of Texas has been a long-time supporter of the Texas Main Street Program, dedicating its resources and efforts to helping preserve our state's rich legacy for generations to come," Gov. Rick Perry said. "By helping to restore and revitalize historic downtowns and neighborhoods, IBAT not only contributes to Texans' sense of pride in their communities, it also has helped bring jobs and tourism to communities across Texas. I congratulate organization members on a well-deserved honor."
The Governor's Award is the THC's most prestigious preservation honor and was created to recognize the outstanding achievement of an individual or organization in preserving Texas' prehistoric and historic heritage.
IBAT is a trade association representing more than 2,000 Texas community banks and branches. Organized in 1974, IBAT's goal is to promote the interests of independent banking in areas vital to independent banks. As an organization, IBAT has also sought to ensure the development and continuation of Texas' rich history for future generations. The organization has proven their passion for preservation through their 11-year collaboration with the THC in assisting with the Texas First Lady's Tours of new Main Street cities. The most recent tour in March 2006 brought First Lady Anita Perry to the newly announced 2006 Official Texas Main Street Cities of Texarkana, Colorado City, Conroe and Beeville. Mrs. Perry gave the keynote addresses at each celebration and unveiled the first architectural renderings for the downtown renovations.
The THC's Texas Main Street Program is a revitalization program for historic downtown and neighborhood commercial districts. Implemented in 1981, the program has assisted more than 140 communities throughout the state and is one of the most successful in the nation. The program has resulted in the private reinvestment of more than $1 billion in Texas downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts, the creation of more than 21,000 jobs and the establishment of more than 5,500 new businesses.
"The dedication that IBAT has shown for Texas history deserves the highest recognition the THC provides," said John L. Nau, III, THC chairman. "They truly embrace the ideals which the Governor's Award represents through their commitment and fervor for preservation."
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Contact:
Debbi Head
Texas Historical Commission
512.463.4565
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