‘Creative’ Committees Report

On Collaboration, ‘Greening’

The "Creative Communities" process that involved dozens of Randolph citizens this spring has created three on-going committees looking at three action areas that they hope will help Randolph fulfill its creative potential.

Two of the committees filed reports with The Herald this week. The third committee is studying the expansion of broadband and cell phone access in the Randolph area. Here are the other two reports:

Collaboration Committee

Julie Iffland, chair

This subgroup of the Creative Economy Initiative formed and named itself the "Heart of Vermont Collaborative."

The goal is to foster collaboration within the region, especially among arts and cultural organizations, to foster the growth of their businesses, and to establish a regional identity that resonates with residents, visitors and business people, alike.

Members found they were surprised to discover the high level of activity, talent and enterprise in such a small place. However, it was also discovered that these resources are often unknown to most people in the community.

One of the three initial projects this committee will undertake is an inventory of people, organizations, and businesses with special talents or expertise. The inventory will be a "Who’s Who" of people and organizations that will open our eyes to the talents in our community, in a format that is easy to access and update. Data from the "Who’s Who" database would be gathered by volunteers.

In addition, the group’s first projects will also include:

• Surveying local artists and others to discover what kind of community support is most needed;

• Identifying internet-based tools that can help the region collaborate and communicate, tools such as a regional calendar.

Green Communities

Linda Morse, Chair

The Randolph Area Greening Group decided to focus its attention initially on recycling and food systems. It used the Fiddlehead Festival May 5 by placing blue recycling bins around the festival and using a booth to pass out handouts and educate festival-goers about the greening program.

In the immediate future, the group plans two key activities. With the support of the Chamber of Commerce, it will bring more recycling to the July 4 parade and related events. Also, in early June, the group will conduct a recycling survey of residents in cooperation with the Tri-Town Alliance of Randolph, Brookfield, and Braintree.

The committee welcomes new participants; contact Linda at lfmorse@hughes.net