Synergize Sanford to host event Thursday to continue brainstorm

I wish I could bottle the excitement in the room at Mill 67 during the launch party for Synergize Sanford a few weeks ago. It was truly inspiring to see so many people come together over the city’s future. Thanks to all who came.

Let’s keep a good thing going. On Thursday, April 10, all are invited to a follow-up event at the Sanford High School Library from 5-7 p.m. It’s an opportunity to roll up your sleeves and put your stamp on this new venture.

Thanks to Southern Maine Health Care for the light refreshments that will be provided. Event details can be found at www.synergizesanford.com.

This will be an open-ended evening. A small group of us have done the initial planning, and we are eager for some direction from the community at large. How can we make the city more welcoming to professionals, young families, entrepreneurs and creative types? We can start by being welcoming to each other. We can start by responding to others’ ideas with, “yes, and ”¦” rather than “yes, but ”¦”

Innovation is already alive and well in Sanford. Just as it fueled the growth of woolen manufacturing last century, it’s fueling innumerable businesses and organizations today.

Did you know that the largest solar farm in Maine is being planned for the old Rushton Street landfill?

Did you know one of the country’s most sophisticated culinary mushroom-growing operations is humming along in a barn in Springvale?

Did you know that Waban Projects has launched two innovative recycling businesses staffed by clients?

Did you know about the innovative farm-trail event this summer, in which farm gates will be open for one day, so people can walk or bike from farm-to-farm-to-farm entirely off roads?

Did you know about the mobile science lab that a group of parents is starting so families have more options for their kids during winter weekends?

Innovation is not just about new phone apps. It originates where there are big needs, little money and passionate people. We have plenty of all three in Sanford.

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