Comments on: What the Midwest Rural Assembly lacked

By: Becky McCray

Becky McCray — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 23:43:21 +0000

Mike, I knew you’d be by some time. I’d be interested in seeing more of both of these topics in all the Rural Assembly events, as well as MRA. Thanks for offering to share this feedback.

By: Mike

Mike — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 12:29:22 +0000

I’m late to the discussion, but I think you raise some great points. Obviously, rural communities need more entrepreneurs. And I’d advocate that the MRA can’t achieve it’s goals unless it learns to leverage social networking as a means of connecting throughout the year.

Although I’m removed from the program development, I know that there is a dedicated cadre of volunteers who are working hard to help the MRA achieve its goals. I’m pretty sure they want to move in this direction, so your thoughts are welcomed. Just in case they they haven’t already been here, I’m make sure they are aware of your comments.

By: Becky McCray

Becky McCray — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 19:55:38 +0000

Maesz, that is only slightly terrifying. ;)

Kelli, thanks for sharing your experiences. I'm particularly gratified to see that you have connected with tourists as well as residents this way.

By: Kelli Gant

Kelli Gant — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 18:11:49 +0000

Social Networking -- "It doesn't matter if
you don't like these new methods of
communications. You're too late to stop them."

I can't agree with you more. The use of Facebook has been terrific for our rural community. With a 16 miles spread between our three mountain (mostly retirement) neighborhoods, residents keep in touch with Facebook and we use our community page to announce events.

We now have 4 times more Facebook followers on our Community page than residents :-) The tourists love being able to keep in touch with their favorite vacation destination. As do the young people who grew up here and are now in big cities working or in the military overseas. I like the statistics that help focus our marketing.

"...there is no external fix; ... People
have to come up with solutions from within
their communities."

Spot on. We are in the middle of developing a community plan and I have been completely amazed at the brilliance hidden within our residents. The process has energized our citizens and we have some creative solutions that we will start implementing in 2011 as well as some long term projects that could help stabilize our economy.

Thank you for your great post.

By: maesz

maesz — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 22:25:34 +0000

For your next encounter: social networking may be evil, but the IRS is now on twitter.@IRSnews