Hope Downtown Network Receives Memorial Gift

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, Hope, Arkansas, Hope Downtown Network welcomed Reverend Rodney Steele and his wife Becky to the HDN monthly meeting on Thursday, January 16, 2025.

Rodney, a well-known photographer, spoke to the group as he shared what had transpired in his booth during Christmas Open House. He knew that he wanted to do something in memory of Louise Martin, a longtime business owner and member of the Hope Downtown Network whose daughters, Barb Noble and Gloria Cunningham are also members of Hope Downtown Network.

Barb Noble, owner of Elm Street Marketplace, provided the space in her store for Rodney to display and sell his photographs.

In sharing his heart behind the donation, Rodney stated, “It just seemed a perfect way to remember Mrs. Martin and the way she always made you feel glad when you entered the store as well being able to express gratitude to and for the downtown merchants who are working together to improve our hometown. It was heartwarming to experience the spirit of the community coming together in a wonderful way. I sincerely thank everyone who participated.”

Barb Noble accepted the memorial gift in the amount of $500.00 on behalf of Hope Downtown Network.