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2024 NC Main Street Champion
Lynne Harakal served as Executive Director of Swiss Bear, New Bern’s Main Street program, from 2016 until her retirement in 2024. During her tenure, Lynne’s leadership helped Swiss Bear secure nearly $120,000 in grants, funding several important downtown projects. Notably, she oversaw the creation of an Amazon-style shopping website during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling consumers to shop from multiple downtown businesses in a single transaction.
Lynne also raised $210,000 from corporate, small business, and government entities to establish a zero-interest COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Fund. In 2017, she established a Property Enhancement Grant for downtown businesses, with more than $50,000 awarded to date.
In response to Hurricane Florence, Lynne helped create the Hurricane Florence Relief Fund, which raised significant resources for rebuilding efforts. Swiss Bear donated $100,000 in MumFest concert revenue and raised an additional $83,000 through private donations.
Lynne’s collaborative efforts with local government, corporate leaders, and entrepreneurs have spurred growth and opportunity in downtown New Bern. One of her major accomplishments is the development of a Pepsi Museum, planned in partnership with PepsiCo, which will be a significant addition to the downtown area.
Through her forward-thinking approach and unwavering dedication to local businesses, Lynne has laid a strong foundation for the future of Downtown New Bern.
New Bern is honored to recognize Lynne Harakal as its 2024 North Carolina Main Street Champion.