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City of Atmore and Pride of Atmore officials had cause for celebration Sept. 23 as one of T-Mobile’s Hometown Grant recipients.

Local and state dignitaries were present for the check presentation. The city of Atmore was one of 24 towns selected by T-Mobile for a grant, which totaled $50,000.

The T-Mobile Hometown Grants program helps fund projects to build, rebuild or refresh community spaces that help foster local connections in towns, according to T-Mobile’s website. Additionally, the grants program is partnered with Smart Growth America and Main Street America programs, two of which Atmore is affiliated.

“Everybody has had a role, none more than the Pride of Atmore,” Pride of Atmore Boardmember Dale Ash said.

Recently, the Pride of Atmore announced that construction and renovation on the Strand Theatre and Old Hardware Store in earnest. The COVID-19 pandemic stopped construction from commencing last year.

Pride of Atmore’s Bub Gideons said the project of renovating both buildings has grown, and it’s notable that a project of this size is being completed in Atmore.

“Today is a good day because everybody had a part in it,” Gideons said.

State Sen. Greg Albritton said the city is full of movers and shakers.

“This is encouraging,” Albritton said. “When you look at what Atmore is doing, this is only the beginning.”

Mayor Jim Staff recognized that the city as a whole has come a long way.

“This (the Strand Theatre and Old Hardware Store) is going to be fantastic when it materializes,” Staff said.

Plans for the Strand Theatre include renovating and repairing the theatre’s facade, mechanical systems, lobby, roof, marquee, ceilings, concession area, theatre seating, projection room and acoustics.

State Rep. Alan Baker said the project is continuing to move foward, and that should be recognized.