Main Street Facebook Group reaches 500 members

One year ago, about a dozen people joined the newly formed Main Street Toccoa Facebook Group. What a difference a year makes.

On Tuesday, December 29, Sarah Williams Coleman was the 500th person to join the increasingly popular site.

In recognition of this milestone, Main Street Events Coordinator Sharon Crosby presented Sarah with a gift package featuring promotional materials from Main Street’s 20 annual events.

Facebook’s mission is to give people the power to share and make the world more open and connected. The site boasts more than 350 million active users.

Members of Main Street Toccoa’s Facebook Group have access to photos of the area, event information, updates from downtown, and discussions of local interest. There is no cost to join.

"We have primarily used Facebook to help remind members about upcoming events in downtown Toccoa," said Main Street Assistant Shawn Apostel. "When members RSVP to our events, then all their friends are notified. Friends can then RSVP to the same event, thereby spreading the news to people we may not reach otherwise."

Now that the group is one year old, Main Street Toccoa is planning on utilizing the site to announce special promotions for downtown businesses and promoting downtown as a destination for dining, shopping, living and playing.

Main Street also uses Facebook to share photos illustrating the natural and historic beauty of our community and to encourage people who have moved away to remember the fond memories they have of Toccoa.

Tabor to serve on the Georgia Downtown Association Board of Directors

Toccoa’s voice in Atlanta just got a little stronger.

Connie Tabor, the City of Toccoa’s Community Planning and Downtown Development Director, has been selected to be a member on the Georgia Downtown Association Board of Directors.

The GDA is a non-profit association that promotes the economic redevelopment of Georgia's traditional downtowns. Through advocacy, education and marketing, GDA works to focus the public's attention on the value of downtown. GDA is an independent association that supports both public and private sector efforts targeted at enhancing Georgia's downtowns.

"I’m flattered to be asked to serve on the board, and honored for the general membership to put their support in me," said Tabor.

GDA has a number of programs that are designed to increase the opportunities for and multiply the talents of its members. Membership in the Georgia Downtown Association include cities, downtown development authorities, businesses, professionals and other individuals interested in downtown.

GDA annually sponsors the Georgia Downtown Conference in partnership with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs as well as professional development programs. GDA is involved in legislative issues and mentoring programs for younger members.

Tabor will assist the board with the professional development program, having obtained her Master GA Downtown Development Professional Certification in October 2008. She will continue to assist in the mentoring program, supporting young managers as they grow into seasoned managers.