Just nine days ago the "LHTC is the perfect place for Trader Joe’s" Facebook page launched.

In that time, the viral campaign has registered pretty impressive results.

With just over 1,700 “likes” and 300+ comments on the page, a petition campaign has now been organized by the Lake Highlands Area Improvement Association (LHAIA) in hopes of continuing the effort to attract Trader Joe's to Lake Highlands.

According to an email sent to the presidents of its member homeowner organizations, the LHAIA has set the bar high with an audacious goal of 10,000 signatures.

"Since this initiative started, we have vowed to continue to do anything and everything we can to keep the cause going," said LHAIA president, Scott Wynne, in this week's email.

"We think the next step is to start a petition drive to get Trader Joe’s to sit up and take notice of Lake Highlands."

Recruited to manage the petition campaign on behalf of the LHAIA is local volunteer, Risa Tompson.

"This is a great opportunity to show Trader Joe’s the heart and soul of the Lake Highlands community," said Tompson.

"As a community, we’ve proven capable of getting behind important initiatives before, and this is no different. I’m excited to be a part of this campaign and look forward to helping anyway I can."

In addition to the mobilization of the homeowner organizations, several local businesses have volunteered to serve as signature collection points for the petition drive, as well.

To date Atomic Pie, Highlands Cafe, LA Fitness, LH Media Center, Picasso's, T. Hee Greetings & Gifts, Starbucks and The Store are participating.

It’s expected that other businesses will be added to the list soon, so keep an eye out during your local shopping.

The petition will last through the first week of July, with a final push for signatures expected at the Exchange Club’s Independence Day parade on Monday, July 4th.

Of course, if you haven't “liked” the LHTC is the perfect place for Trader Joe’s Facebook page, be sure to check it out.

The electronic Trader Joe's Location Request Form is another way to let your voice be heard.

While attracting Trader Joe’s to the town center is the goal of the campaign, LH Today encourages you to keep thinking outside the big box in an effort to help promote our community.

Other retailers will undoubtedly also be needed in order for construction to begin.

Rumors persist that Sprouts is still very interested in the securing space at the Lake Highlands Town Center, as is Tom Thumb, and at least one other national grocer.

Let your voice be heard, Lake Highlands!

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If you have any questions regarding the petition campaign, our would like to volunteer to assist in the collection of signatures, please contact Risa Tompson via email at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

Lead photo collage courtesy of Ashley Phillips