A multi-state Emerging Leadership group joined Renee Dycus with the Southwest Planning & Development District for tours of Texarkana, Historic Washington, & Hope. Members that traveled from many different states met at the HUB this afternoon to tour around downtown Hope.

Mayor Don Still was present to greet the bunch. "Welcome to Hope, we are a typical southern town," Still said. He went on to talk about some of the industry, events and people Hope is well known for; President Bill Clinton's birthplace, Paul Klipsch and Tyson Foods.

Executive Director of KHMA, Beckie Moore was also there to meet the group along with Executive Director of the Hope Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce, Christy Burns. Both shared their love of Hope and gave out reading material containing information about Arkansas, the City of Hope and KHMA.

"The group was extremely positive about all they saw & heard today. They applauded us for making positive changes in the areas of downtown business revitalization & historic preservation," Moore said.

Still and Moore then took the group on a tour around downtown, showcasing some of the storefronts that had maintained original structure while running a current business. Elm Street Marketplace was the first stop, where Ms Barb treated them to sweet snacks as they admired the shop. The rain didn't stop them from taking the rest of the tour and listening to their hosts visit about what's old, what's new, the rejuvenation of downtown and what lies ahead.

The future leaders, many in executive positions, have been traveling from town to town touring in preparation of becoming the very best they can be in their individual professions. We were sure proud to have them stop by our little town called Hope.