Finding light in the community

There is a blog called Smart Communities that recently mentioned an article about Columbia that appeared in the NEW YORK TIMES. This article called Columbia a microcosm of the current economic problems. It was not an optimistic or flattering view though it was probably close to the mark. The writer of the blog, commenting on the article, noted that a different kind of leadership is needed at the community level. She discussed leadership that can provide communities with lights that would begin to lead to solutions and changes that made a difference. It was an interesting observation that caught my attention because of the number of people who have observed that the Selling Hartsville campaign is coming at the wrong time because of the confluence of economic events that are buffeting our community and communities all over the nation and world. I wonder if we all look at Hartsville - The Art of Good Living as one of the lights through which we can begin to look for solutions.

For example, one of the major objectives of this selling Hartsville program is for each Hartsvillian to remind other Hartsvillians that it would be smart to look in Hartsville first before deciding to make purchases in some other community. That little light shined our own retail opportunities might be the difference for one of the retailers.

For example, as you hear of people who might be moving to the area, it might be a great opportunity to get them together with some of your friends to discuss the qualities you feel are important to the high quality of life we lead in this community.

Let's just think how one at a time we can make a positive difference to continue growing Hartsville into the community we want it to be; into the community we need it to be.