A Joint Initiative Between     Heart of Wisconsin     Business & Economic Alliance and     Community Foundation of     South Wood County

Home About Us B2B Club Breaking News Contact Donate Events / Programs Feedback Ideas Incubator Industry Clusters Links / Resources Progess Funds Progress Teams Public Art / Murals Publications		Breaking News May 1, 2004 - Wisconsin Rapids Daily Tribune Editorial “Our View” Sometimes, the best thoughts come from a reaction to someone else's ideas or opinions. That was true in the past week among Daily Tribune readers. Here's a look at some of their thoughts on two recent issues: Community Progress Initiative The Daily Tribune supports the Community Progress Initiative because it takes an upbeat, open-ended approach to the future of south Wood County and the town of Rome. It allows the people who live here, no matter their status, to help build local communities. Almost all the reaction we've heard, at the launch and at every community rally so far, has been positive. But one part - "creating a business-friendly culture" - seems to be sticking in a few craws. The concern is that the community will go too far and allow any business to come in and do anything it wants, at the expense of neighbors and others. Do we dare bring up the beef plant as an example? Rest assured, someone will, and that particular discussion shouldn't just go away. The Community Progress Initiative is not designed to open the door to a beef plant, though. In fact, its heaviest emphasis is on supporting uniquely local entrepreneurialism - both among existing businesses and among other local people who have an idea they want to pursue. The initiative will offer training and other support to help businesses start and expand, but it's still up to the entire community to decide what kind of growth we want. That's why it's so important to attend the rallies and other events to be held throughout the year. That's why residents should pay attention to - and try to influence - their common council, village board, or town board. Ask about creating and serving on advisory committees, for example. This initiative is designed, purposely, to reflect the creativity and the will of the people who live, work and play here, and to build a more optimistic outlook. You can't make that happen by sitting on the sidelines and grumbling under your breath.
		Copyright © 2005, Community Progress Initiative, South Wood County & Town of Rome