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| Barb presents a Mount Holly Community Development Foundation facade grant last fall to Mount Holly business owners Billy and Anna Rick, for improvements made to the exterior of the Summey Building on South Main Street. |
After spending many years in economic development and real
estate research, I have learned that no one really cares about experience until
it is needed. So, in general terms, the sum of my experience is in
support of creating special places. Destinations that people want to
visit over and over again are "authentic" and provide an emotional
attachment to the experience.
I grew up near downtown Charlotte, now referred to as Center
City. Charlotte's downtown in the 1950s and 1960s was magical: Think
"A Christmas Story" or "Miracle on 34th Street". My
work has involved revitalization of downtown Boone, downtown Gastonia and now
downtown Mount Holly, which is home. I have also researched resort areas
for many years and provide services as a travel agent.
It happens that economic development and downtown
revitalization have always worked hand in hand. Now, more than ever
before, what we choose to spend each dollar for affects our local future and
the economy of our country. This blog will accentuate the local
"authentic" places in the Catawba River District, and items that are
made locally, or at least made in the USA.
On a global scale, I prefer to buy items that at least are
still "authentic" for their origins. If buying Scottish biscuits, I
want them to actually be from Scotland. French Champagne should actually be
from France, and so on. This is possible on simple items. In more complex
purchases such as a car, parts may come from all over the world, but you can
still help your local economy when you buy from the local dealer. The same is
true of travel. When you support local travel agents, you get personal service,
best value, and help your local economy. Please don’t forget our local farmers
and farmer’s markets, as we cannot afford to lose these vital providers.
I ask you to think about each penny you spend throughout
this year. Those pennies add up. Your community depends on it.
About Barbara Lawrence -
Barbara Lawrence has a background in economic development and real-estate
research. Her work has included revitalization of downtown Boone, Gastonia and
now Mount Holly. She serves on the Mount Holly Community Development
Foundation.
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