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Dear Main Streeters,
The Loch Ness Monster, unicorns, leprechauns, and Main Streets. What do they have in common? They’re all myths. At least that’s according to yesterday’s New York Times, which ran an opinion piece by economist Louis Hyman, “The Myth of Main Street.” Today's Main Streets, he tells us, are nothing more than pure nostalgia, and only thrive in enclaves of the wealthy, like Brooklyn.
We thought you might share our opinion that Main Streets are, in fact, quite real. Spread the word by using the hashtag #realmainstreet and share your thoughts on the idea that Main Streets are mythology. Check out some commentary on the topic already, including:
A great tweet by Donovan Rypkema of Place Economics: “This is one of the singularly misinformed and ignorant OpEd pieces I’ve ever read in the New York Times.”
Mindy Thompson Fullilove’s reaction, who is a social psychaitrist: http://mainstreetnj.blogspot.com
And lastly...mine: https://www.facebook.com/patrice.frey.
Warm regards,
President and CEO, National Main Street Center
Main Street Now 2026 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is sure to be the biggest professional development event for civic leaders looking to boost their impact and role in the success of their local Main Street. And with registration as low as $200, it's an unbeatable opportunity.
Photo by BeauMonde Originals
Dionne Baux shares how Historic King Drive BID's executive director Ray Hill is leading the district to success by supporting strong economic sustainability.
Rooted in Main Street fundamentals and informed by feedback from across the network, the 2026 schedule is full of opportunities to exchange ideas, tackle real challenges, and gain practical tools to help communities stand strong for generations to come. Get a peek at new sessions, revamped favorites, and role-based learning tracks.
Photo by BeauMonde Originals
