Among the statements made at last Friday's meeting about progress toward downtown improvements was this: "It's not how things are; it's how people think they are."

That related to a couple of points that were made. 1. Lebanon needs to put out the open sign for business. 2. A lot of people who live here don't know what shops are located downtown.

To attract more businesses, those already here must be open and friendly.

People, whether prospective new downtown tenants, investors or customers, will base decisions on what they see when they visit. If stores don't put out the welcome mat for customers, literally and figuratively, the impression is that they don't expect folks to walk in their door and don't much care if they do or not. That apparent attitude, true or not, tells prospective tenants and investors there's not much activity on Main Street in Lebanon, and that existing business owners aren't doing much to help themselves. Good-by prospect.

Customers also see no reason to buy or return later to buy, if greeted by silence or indifference.

As for point 2, if you don't work downtown, do you know what's here?

Have you visited the deli, the bakery or the furniture store in the old hotel? Did you know a new jewelry store has opened near the dress shop? If you're planning a wedding, did you know there's a bridal shop in with the florist?

Do you think of downtown when you're looking for a new hairdresser? You should. There are several on Main and side streets. When you want a book or your kids want sports cards, do you head for Albany or Sherman Street? Did you know there's a gift shop, Christian bookstore, coffee shop and music venue featuring local talent, all rolled into one?

Lebanon is bringing in new employers and new people. The time is right for a resurgence of downtown, but first those of us who live here need to get acquainted with what we have and those who work in and own stores downtown need to believe success is possible.