Sunday, July 31, 2016

AN INVITATION: Stick your neck out -- and be prepared to collaborate -- on Aug. 11 at the Greylock Economy Working Group circle-round idea forum

KEY POINT 


This note is an invitation to join a unique gathering from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Thurs., Aug. 11.  It's at the Greylock Mill, the big old factory halfway between Williamstown and North Adams on state Route 2. It's free and it's open to the public.  But you do have to register to attend. And registration is easy.

Just click here:

BACKGROUND 

Many of us have lived a long time in the Greylock region. We've seen profound change over 30 or 40 years -- but the change is not unlike much of America and it is change that is very much at the center of this year's presidential race.  Fewer manufacturing jobs, changing demographics, yet an increasingly diverse and interdependent world due to amazing technology and communications.  
In the last few weeks, you may have read about a gathering organized by state Rep. Gail Cariddi at MCLA, and one organized by The Eagle at Seranac, in Stockbridge. Both have been remarkable efforts -- drawing together some of the region's key thought leaders -- to start discussions about the future of our environment, our economy, and our artistic, social and community lives. 
Mahatma Gandhi said: "You must be the change you want to see in the world."  And Margaret Mead said: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."  
Now its time for each of us to lead.  Won't you please join us on Aug. 11 for a facilitated, open, circle-round discussion about the Greylock economy, environment and communities?  Leaders emerge, they are not annointed. You may have a simple idea you want to put on the table to make our region more just, more inclusive, more stable, more innovative, more attractive or more healthy. Bring it to the circle, please. We'll be gathering ideas and publishing them online after the gathering.

If you come, I am convinced you will meet new, committed neighbors and hear fresh ideas that excite you about or region's future. Don't miss out.
Register today.  Space will be limited.  By registering, you will be letting our participating communities know you are willing to make a difference, willing to reason and work together as part of the ad-hoc Greylock Economy Working Group. 
Thanks.  If you have questions our suggestions about the format, or want to submit papers, ideas,documents or multimedia before we gather -- please email.
Please forward this invitation to a friend or colleague who you think can bring an important, catalytic idea to the circle on Aug. 11. 
And thanks for sticking your neck out to join us!
Thanks,
Bill Densmore
​co-Founder and member, Citizen Media Inc.,\
 non-profit publisher of ​The Greylock Independent ​
Williamstown
​wpdensmore@gmail.com