Watching the Elms today on Bridge Square was thrilling. These young people had confronted a situation that many of us feel hopeless in the face of -- and they had found a creative way to make a difference. It amazed me to see how quickly they moved from "Oh, it's sad that Sweet Lou's and River City are closing," to "We've got to do something."
And do something they have. From the initial brainstorming sessions to today's rally, the Elms have been in charge. They did research to find out about small businesses and shopping local, they made the phone calls to city hall to reserve Bridge Square, they contacted local merchants, they talked on the radio, they wrote a press release, they crafted their pledge and they contacted local leaders. My role has been to provide information and support when they've needed it.
Most gratifying to me has been the wonderful response of the Northfield community. Our students have been treated with respect and their ideas and contributions have been valued. It's a tremendous thing. Kids often feel powerless to make an impact on the "real" world. But here were real world adults, many of whom didn't know us at first, who were genuinely interested and impressed by our work. There is no doubt these kids have helped to make the world just a little bit better place.
Thank you to Mayor Rossing, Phong Nyugen of Ahadiscouts, Joey Robison of Just Food, Jeff Johnson of KYMN, Patty Cash (portrayed with feeling by Bill Nelson), Elizabeth Treat, Brett Reese, Ross Currier, Michele Reese, Robyn Gunderson, Phoebe Gray, Jennifer Sawyer, Katy Hargis and all of the parents who have supported their children's interest in the local economy and this project. Your enthusiasm for the work of the Elms has taught them the invaluable lesson that they can effect change.
Griff Wigley blogged about the rally with great photos and a video: Locally Grown
Tam Prichard also wrote about the rally, a better overview of the project than is here (perfect for sharing with granparents, etc.) It's at 007 Mom: Northfield First
We hope that you'll help us increase the impact of the project by talking to your friends, neighbors and co-workers and asking them to sign the pledge. You can download your own copies here
Download Northfield First Pledge (1352.7K) and they can be returned to Present Perfect.
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