Two of the businesses in downtown Oakland that are participating in the Best Curb Appeal contest, FyreFlye Creations and Couture Styles, show their decorations Thursday. Six downtown businesses are competing and the winners will be announced at OakFest on July 22.

Wayne Cowling, owner of FireFlye Creations, sits with Maila Couture in front of her business, Couture Styles, on Thursday on Main Street in downtown Oakland. The two businesses are participating in the Best Curb Appeal contest.

A man walks down Main Street in downtown Oakland past FyreFlye Creations and Couture Styles on Thursday, two of the businesses participating in the Best Curb Appeal Contest sponsored by the Downtown Business Committee.

Oakland Town Manager Gary Bowman is one of those pushing downtown revitalization in the town.

Downtown Main Street in Oakland as seen in 1905. At right is the Oakland Hotel and other businesses, including a meat and grocery store. The Cascade laundry and billiard hall are in the photo as well. The Downtown Business Committee is hoping to bring back some of downtown's early vitality.