February Business is Up, Kinda

Business reports are mixed, but it seems the consensus is “same as last year” or “barely up”. The challenge of how to get locals to look downtown first still remains. Their first choice for a donation or sponsorship, needs to become their first choice for buying goods and services.  Tourism to Conway is off to a good start, visitors from the northeastern states, and Canada have been making a solid contribution to downtown retailers and restaurants.

Wiener City Cafe is Coming Soon

I've been chasing Leroy Clewis for the past month, just trying to get a little info on what was going on with the building he owns on 3^rd Ave.  For the record, Mr. Clewis can keep a secret.  Just this week, signs went up announcing “Wiener City Cafe”. The owner says that it will be a variety hot dog concept with other menu items such as burgers and salads. I haven't found a hotdog that I didn't like, so I'm def' excited.  I like the clearly defined concept too.  Maybe we can get a “Luther Dog” on the menu. They were painting this week and I looks like there is still some work to be done before they open.

Trudy maintains Credibility, with Announcement of New Italian Restaurant

This past October the ConwayJournal, acting on a tip from a mannequin named Trudy, reported that there was a new Italian restaurant moving into the Black Water Market on Laurel Street. Once we published it, we were told that it was just a lie, and that the activity was simple the previous operators removing their fixtures. While the activity was not the new tenants moving in, the information was true. Trudy's word is good, it's just that at the time it was still insider information, unknown to even the building owners. See the original announcement here: Rumors....

See the Sun News story here: http://www.thesunnews.com/2011/02/23/1997723/pregnancy-inspires-dessert.html.

Curtains & Things has really increased the “things” part of their business. They've picked up some really great items, such as jewelry, hand bags, and home accessories. Check them out next time you're in town.

Hamps Hardware is removing the last of their merchandise. The owner says that no one is currently planning to move in.

The sign company on 3^rd ave is gone. Wow, that was quick.

New Salon by Debbie Roberts

Debbie, who had been operating for years inside the Rivertown Fitness Center, has now opened a salon downtown. She is in the building right behind Crady's, where Dr. Iles natural health practice was. The inside looks great, she should do well there. Call her @843-340-8889 to set an appointment.

Carolina Theatre Progress - Rumor has it that a retail store is looking to move in to the location on Main Street, next to People's Underwriters. It looks like it could be open by early April. We'll keep you posted.

BookSmith Building -Something is happening inside, no clue at this time what it could be.