The Elm Street Program's elemental committees include one called "Neighbors and Economy."  It is one of the more easily misunderstood aspects of the program.  The idea is that residential resiliency is intimately tied to the local economy.  There are key interdependencies between jobs, businesses, home values, and neighborhood viability.  As the North Ward Neighborhood Committee is just getting started, there isn't a specific campaign in place yet, but we are seeing the need for action all around us.

Catherman's Homemade Candy, which produces candy, cakes, pastries, cookies and bread, is one of the neighborhood amenities that was specifically called out as important to the residents.  We got word this week that they are going to continue their baking of cakes to order and breads along with the candy and cookie offerings after a brief and upsetting hiatus.  The idea of losing the bakery and also Cherry Alley Cafe, which is for sale, were key topics at the North Ward Neighborhood meeting earlier in the week.  We know it isn't easy operating so far off the beaten path.  As Chuck Confer, a North Ward resident laments, "Catherman's is sometimes called the best kept secret in Lewisburg!"  But we don't want them to be a secret.  Everyone needs to know about them...

How can you help?  While some forms of advertising are very expensive, the oldest form is both cheap and effective:  word of mouth.  You can tell your friends, family, and associates about them.  Familiarize yourself with their wares and their hours, and consider proposing their treats for the next event or meeting or party you attend.  Check out their bread, various loaves during the week and baguettes on Saturday.  If you use social media, like them on facebook and share their status updates so others in your circle can find out about them too.  Instagram your next coffee and pastry there, if you're into that.  The baker will be in starting up again Tuesday, Nov 18, from 10 to 5 (T-F) and 8:30 to 12:30 (Saturdays).  The address is 209 N Front St.  On street parking is on the south-bound side of the street.  Their phone is 523-3873.

While you're at it, help talk up the other neighborhood businesses people may not know about.  There's Fisher's Meats at 228 St John St (523-1203) and really tucked away on Hazel Tree Alley, off St John St between N 2nd and N 3rd, you'll find Champion Shoe (523-0822).  These businesses are integral to the history of the town too.  Stay tuned for a post with more on their past from some of our long term residents.

What else can we do?  As we move forward in the North Ward Neighborhood, consider whether you'd like to get involved in the Neighbors and Economy side of things.  Let's work together to preserve and improve the neighborhood.  Contact the office to see how you can get involved (elmstreet@dejazzd.com or 523-0114).