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It is bittersweet to be writing this Mary’s Minute, to let you know that an integral part of what has made Main Street Alabama what it is today is moving on. Trisha Black has been with Main Street Alabama for 10 years, as we have grown from 10 communities to working with over 60 today. She spent 8 years as a local Main Street Director in Athens, launching that program to the successful organization it is today.
Trisha and I have had a lot of firsts together…
- Main Street Alabama Conferences, training, webinars, and so many presentations!
- Website designs and changes – too numerous to count
- Launching of the new Sweet HomeTowns Tours website and our new Sweet Home Towns Podcast
- Resources, resources, and more resources!
- Hosting the National Main Street Conference in Birmingham in 2024 was a highlight for sure!
- Bringing on so many new districts, resource teams, strategic plans, and more
Through all of this, Trisha has been by my side, sometimes with a side eye for whatever crazy thing I have on my list of things to do, but always game to give it a shot.
After 18 years of Main Street fun, Trisha is taking some time for herself, and while I will miss the day-to-day crazy we have shared, she will always be a part of Main Street. She is taking some time to reset and be good to herself, and we are happy for her. We look forward to when she is ready to consult and play with us again, but until then – thanks for the memories, Trisha – we love you!
Mary Helmer Wirth
President/State Coordinator
| | Recapping Community Updates in the Four Points | | We're sharing recent community updates from across our Designated communities, organized by the Main Street Four-Point Approach®—Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality. This structure helps showcase the many ways local programs are strengthening partnerships, hosting engaging events, improving downtown spaces, and supporting small businesses. Together, these updates highlight the ongoing work happening right now in Main Street communities across Alabama. Click on the icons below to learn more. | | Sweet HomeTown Tours: Discover Alabama’s Authentic Communities | | |
Main Street Alabama has a new resource for discovering the unique character and charm of Alabama’s towns and cities with the website, SweetHomeTowns.com.
We work with local Main Street Programs to revitalize their districts by preserving historic places, supporting local businesses, and encouraging cultural experiences that make each Main Street special. With Sweet HomeTowns Tours, you can explore Alabama’s rich heritage, enjoy real Southern food, and experience the warm hospitality our state is known for.
If you love history, great food, or just want a beautiful place to visit, we have tips and recommendations to help you plan a memorable trip.
Come celebrate the stories, traditions, and lively spirit of Alabama’s communities.
Visit SweetHomeTowns.com today to start planning your next adventure.
| | Announcing the Sweet Home Towns Podcast | | |
Main Street Alabama is excited to share the launch of the Sweet Home Towns Podcast. This official podcast celebrates the energy and charm of Alabama’s historic downtowns and neighborhood business districts.
The podcast shares inspiring stories about community innovation, historic preservation, and the people making a difference in their hometowns. You’ll hear from leaders, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and visionaries who are helping shape Alabama’s most lively communities.
The podcast is available on several platforms, such as Audible, iHeartRadio, Apple, and on our YouTube channel. Just search for Sweet Home Towns Podcast! Tune in and join the conversation, because every town has a story worth sharing.
| | Are You Ready to Transform Your Downtown or Neighborhood Commercial District? | | |
Main Street Alabama is now accepting registrations for New City Application Workshops, the first step toward becoming a Designated Main Street Program.
These workshops offer an overview of the application process and introduce strategies and resources that support the success of historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts. Participants will learn about the Main Street Four-Point Approach®: Organization, Promotion, Design, and Economic Vitality. This framework uses local assets to encourage revitalization, attract investment, and support vibrant commercial and cultural centers.
Workshops will be held in January in Birmingham, Enterprise, and Athens. Registration is free.
Position your district for long-term growth and sustainability. Register now to begin building a stronger future. Click to read the press release.
Birmingham, January 13
Enterprise, January 20
Athens, January 27
| | Happy Holidays from Main Street Alabama | | |
This season, we’re celebrating the people, places, and small businesses that make Alabama’s downtowns so special. Thank you for supporting local communities and helping keep our Main Streets vibrant all year long. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a bright start to the new year.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Main Street Alabama
| | Our work across Alabama is made possible by the generous support of our donors. Their investment allows Main Street Alabama to deliver statewide services that strengthen downtowns and communities. | | | | |
