September - October Index Page

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Director's Column: From Old Economy to "New Localism"

by Doug Loescher

The New Localism is more than just mom & pop shops, farmers markets, and “buy local” campaigns. It gives power to the people in a new way—by giving them opportunities to get involved and have a voice in shaping commerce.

Main Streets that POP: Building entrepreneurs and excitement with pop ups

by Trudy Andrzejewski

Main Street programs are always looking for ways to build the buzz about their communities. See how pop ups can bring excitement and new entrepreneurs to your district.

Ronceverte Redevelopment Renaissance

by Tom Neeley

Taking on the role of real estate developer, the Main Street program in Ronceverte, West Virginia, is reducing vacancies and matching businesses to buildings through a series of financial incentives.

48 Hours, 48 Months, 48 Years: A Planning Innovation

by Isaac Kremer

A 48-hour pop-up planning initiative showed Oyster Bay, New York, how it could temporarily transform a neglected area downtown and use the excitement and activity to jump-start long-term change. Make your planning initiatives interactive and fun, too!

Advocacy: Preserving Your Public Funding

by Lauren Adkins

Learn a four-step process that can help you avert a public funding crisis in these difficult economic times.

Network Notes

by Andrea L. Dono

Important legislative updates; Main Street communities on lots of “best of” lists; Beatlemania in Arkansas; and Date Night in Maryland; and don’t forget Small Business Saturday.