By Jack Sharry
Not long ago, the streets and economy of Hardwick, Vermont, were as empty as the quarries that once made it the "Granite Center of the World.” Replacing those now dormant quarries, their revitalization story is a lesson in grassroots community efforts to improve economic health by developing and promoting local assets. Coming together as a community and investing in each other, Hardwick has become a food mecca capturing national media attention on a turnaround story that has revitalized their economy.
This story was very much on the minds of those who embarked on the creation of the Mad River Valley Vision and Vitality Series and Economic Summit. Among the findings of this economic and community initiative was the recognition that The Valley has significant assets that can be developed and promoted: recreation, food, wellness and innovation. And, if organized and promoted effectively, will lead to more visitors and residents and sustainable economic vitality for The Valley and, most importantly, without losing the character and the beauty that attracts so many of us to this wonderful place.
Following the Mad River Valley Economic Summit last December, Valley residents formed groups around recreation, food, wellness and innovation and have been meeting to convert their passion into action and sustainable, economic health.
Twenty-five members of these asset groups and the community met last week at a gathering hosted by the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. Asset leaders shared progress and sought ways to coordinate efforts. The Chamber of Commerce Marketing Committee shared highlights of its plan to promote Valley assets through activities, events and experiences on social media, including a comprehensive calendar. I was inspired by the grassroots efforts and enthusiasm I heard.
The spirit of the meeting was energetic, helpful and engaged. Dave Hartshorn talked about creating a maple festival in early April where tours, demonstrations, tastings and a variety of products such as candy, ice cream, milkshakes and cocktails will be offered. He also plans to hold blueberry, strawberry and pumpkin festivals over the coming year. Dave suggested ways other participants could get involved. Someone said restaurants could include maple food items on their menus; someone else said the inns would love to participate; and, another said recreational activities like hiking could be offered as part of the festival. Valley Arts said they could host a maple-themed art show. The participants were collaborating on how to attract more visitors to The Valley during mud season.
We heard from Joe Klimek on how we could make The Valley a wine destination. Amy Todisco of the Wellness Alliance talked about the Wellness Alliance's desire to make The Valley the “Sedona of the East.” Don Swain talked about the possibilities of an expanded Skatium and attendees brainstormed the types of events a larger facility could host — car shows, concerts, expos, trade shows and hockey camps. Candice White from Sugarbush talked about events they are planning around local foods and wines.
The Chamber’s Marketing Committee has developed a strategy and execution plan to actively and consistently promote economic activity. Its theme is centered on the unique people and places of the Mad River Valley with a special focus on events, activities and experiences around food, recreation, wellness and innovation. A comprehensive calendar of all local events that have taken place over the last few years is in place as a way to be on the lookout for what’s likely coming up and can be highlighted. All this work is moving forward, building momentum and generating interest in The Valley.
The Mad River Valley is a special place, a beautiful place filled with wonderfully creative and committed people. We have developed a smart strategy, with a lot of volunteer effort and enthusiasm, and we are working our plan. Just like our friends in Hardwick, this will require community effort and involvement. Not unlike what happened after Tropical Storm Irene, we’ve already seen what our community will do when presented a challenge. We invite you to join us in working together to meet the challenge of generating grassroots economic and community vitality.
Sharry is a member of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and is co-chairman of the marketing committee. He is also a member of the Mad River Valley Community Development Committee. He lives in Warren and in Massachusetts.
