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	Name:	John C -
	Subject:	An update to this Issue
	Date:	4/6/2011 11:31:48 PM

I think the whole reason they are going for the historical designation is to help spur local business growth, and is per se evidence of leadership on the issue of creating new growth for AC and linking it to the lake.

More evidence is notable in folks like Dr. Tuggle, who has put his own money into restoring a beautiful building to create a sort of small business incubator for local retailers and artists.

More evidence is notable in shops like Henry Foy's Emporium Wine that recently expanded to showcase and art gallery and serve tapas. Not warmed over frozen food, but honest to goodness tapas. I think that's pretty cool for a town of that size.

Lastly, but certainly not least, in the evidence trail are the 2 classes we have had in social media / marketing for small businesses that we have had in the offices of and sponsored by MainStreet Alexander City. So far we have had 10 or so business owners to meet and discuss practical ways (using tools like Facebook, Twitter, Yelp, 4Square, Constant Contact, Mail Chimp, and this site) to talk about what's going on downtown. The #1 goal is to reach lake lovers. I have been very honored to have taught these classes thus far. I donate my time to this not because I think I am some marketing wizard, but I truly believe that AC has a unique culture and atmosphere that most lakers would enjoy.

I also earnestly believe that we (as a lake community) must do a better job of marketing ourselves or we will get passed by by other southern 2nd home destinations. This isn't an Alex CIty issue, it's a Lake Martin issue. So if you're a lake area small biz owner - whether you're in Dadeville, Eclectic, Equality, Red Hill, Walnut Hill, whatever - pay attention to the MainStreet FB page and come at our next meeting if you want to learn about free ways to effectively market your small business.

I know lots of weekenders never visit downtown AC, and that's a shame. I think there will be fewer of those in 2011 because we will do a better job about reaching them.

Reader - if you haven't been downtown in 10 years, and think it's still the same - I challenge you to take a visit. I think it's getting past the mill town stigma. There are growing pains, sure. I am sure I am prejudiced, my family has lived here for almost 200 years, before the lake, before the mill. The mill is gone - but the Lord saw fit to give us a lake!!

URL: MainStreet Alexander CIty on Facebook