He expanded on the theme by giving as an example the decline of tourism in an Amish community in Pennsylvania. First, Mr. McMahon showed a slide of the traditional horse and buggy in a rural setting which he followed with a photograph of a garish strip of modern commercial buildings competitively trading on the Amish theme. Despite increased marketing of the area, tourists are not returning to the destination. Tourism is a voluntary activity and people make choices. We need to preserve our hearts and souls.
Historic preservation is important for economic growth.
He was leading into the importance of new construction enhancing a community's regional character. If you want better you can have that, too. One ideal example was a group of grain silos in Akron, Ohio which had been very successfully transformed into a Hilton hotel. Some things will cost more, some will cost less and some things will cost the same. He moved on to the use of public art for authenticity and education.