Where do I even begin to state all that I am thinking right now? I have just finished reading all of the updates on a Facebook group, "My Louisville, MS" that is a gathering place of ideas about my hometown of Louisville. Reading it this morning has left me encouraged about the future of my hometown.

For one, thanks in part to discussion generated through this group, our town's first farmers' market was held yesterday. From the reactions on the group, it was a success in many ways. Farmers sold out, shoppers went home with local produce, and all enjoyed a resounding sense of community. How neat!

Secondly, I feel renewed about the potential of groups like this to link communities. We are living in a day of increased technological use, but I firmly believe that the rise of technology doesn't necessitate a decline in community. If anything, this Facebook group has led to a renewal in the spirit of community that exists in Louisville. It has united people of all ages and backgrounds and given them a voice in what goes on in their town. I'm even thinking about changing my personal policy against adults on Facebook (actually, that probably has already changed, as I've added many as "friends" after "meeting" them on the Facebook group). So, through its ability to connect people and ideas, technology has furthered the life of our little community.

I can't wait to see where this group will take us next. We're hoping to increase its membership over the next few months. I'd love to hear ideas as to how we can do such a thing, given the barriers to technology that are true for rural communities.

Which brings me to what I have been working on at work, or will be next week: a marketing and communications plan for the foundation to better disseminate community information to all citizens. What a challenge! Especially considering I have no marketing and communications experience whatsoever. But the results of effective communication in Louisville are encouraging to me; I get to hopefully be a part of similar things in Danville.