Putting your money where your heart is

The Paonia Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Joint Chamber Symposium on Business and Investment to discuss the benefits of investing in local businesses and the economy, and to showcase current models that are working in the North Fork Valley and around Colorado.

"What Do We Value About Our Local Economy?" is the theme of the symposium which will be held at Paonia Town Hall, Saturday, Nov. 3, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Heart and Soul is gathering stories about what people value. Many of the very same jobs that have provided for the families that first settled in the area remain important to the local economy. Many of the early farmers and ranchers spent summers in the fields and winters mining coal. Many of the buildings in the downtown areas have had local businesses that fed the community since the beginning. Meanwhile, the local economy continues to diversify.

People here value the character of the valley's small towns, and many folks are concerned that there are nearly as many businesses for sale or empty buildings these days as thriving storefronts. Some of the high school students wonder what good jobs there are for young people in their 20s and 30s, and whether it is possible to sustain a career in the North Fork after college.

Is living locally, purchasing goods and investing in local entrepreneurs and businesses a value held in this valley? What does valuing local businesses even mean and how does that fit into valuing our small towns? What would successful local investment look like?

Join this important discussion. The symposium is free for chamber members. Other-wise admission is with a $5 donation at the door.

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