INC NEWS - Durham Image Watch

[Newman Aguiar]

Hi All,

I wish you all the best for 2007! 

The DCVB has created a list for monitoring Durham's image.  Particularly,
with regard to crime issues, we all know how huge the gap is between
perception and reality when it comes to Durham.  If you are interested, see
the information below and sign up to the list.

Cheers!

Newman

* * * * * * * * * * *

Perceptions of a community are important. Left unchecked, misperceptions
dampen visitation, scare off newcomers, demoralize residents, throttle
property values and undermine recruitment of executives. They are nearly
always unrelated to any reality or specific understanding of any troubling
issues. It is also clear that civic improvements and developments alone have
limited effect on reversing perceptions.

While it's DCVB's role to promote and defend the community's image and
brand, it's a team effort involving a cadre of individuals or organizations
willing to both identify misinformation that undermines Durham's image and
to help intervene. 

Now Durham Image Watch is expanding the ranks of its Watch Keepers -
volunteers working collectively to swiftly identify, network, address, and
reverse misinformation and misperceptions about Durham. 

Watch Keepers receive timely alerts along with tools and suggestions on how
to help, e.g., letters to the editor, emails, phone calls or other forms of
intervention to set the record straight. Durham Image Watch will also
provide progress reports and help celebrate individuals and organizations
that "get it right."  

To enlist in Durham Image Watch, log on to www.durhamimagewatch.com.