ALDERSON, WEST VIRGINIA 24910

TELEPHONE (304) 445-2916

NEWS RELEASE

January 25, 2006
For Immediate Release
Contact: Mayor Luther Lewallen
304-445-2916

LOCAL REALTOR ADDRESSES ALDERSON MAIN STREET

Tom Johnson, Realtor with Stuart and Watts Real Estate, a member of the Coldwell Banker group, spoke to Alderson Main Street on Thursday, January 19, 2006. Alderson Main Street is a very active group of Alderson business leaders and citizens who sponsor many activities such as the Christmas Homes Tour, and beautification projects such as the flower baskets along the streets, and the new Alderson banners.

Mr. Johnson spoke to the group about the positive effect their work is having on real estate values in the town. He said, “It is easy for me to make a sale in Alderson. When I bring prospective buyers to town they say, ‘Oh, look at the flower baskets!’”

He noted that a clean, attractive community is much easier to promote as a place to live. He said the appearance of the town and the neighborhood is a part of the appraisal process and the more attractive the area, the higher the appraisal. Even citizens who are not interested in selling will find that the value of their property has risen.

Mr. Johnson commended Alderson Main Street for the work it does for the community. He said, “It takes everyone working together to move on a positive path. I have a very good feeling about Alderson.” He predicted a large amount of growth in the Greenbrier Valley and said, “The overflow from the larger towns is coming to small communities like Alderson.”

Responding to a question about the possible increase in crime that sometimes comes with growth, Mr. Johnson said. “Community oriented policing can forestall the crime problem.”

The current large project being managed by Alderson Main Street is the restoration of a 1950’s era Gulf Service Station and its development into the Greenbrier River Interpretative Center. Also on their schedule is partnering with the Alderson Fire Department which will turn 100 years old, the government of Alderson which will celebrate 125 years of incorporation, the Old Greenbrier Baptist Church which will celebrate 225 years of service, and Alderson’s Store which will be 120, all in 2006. A grand celebration of all those anniversaries is planned for October, 2006.

To become a member of Alderson Main Street, those interested can call Alderson City Hall at 445-2916.