 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
FEB. 3 Meeting with Northampton City Officials and Regional Economic Developers Provides Opportunity for Hidden TEC To Be Heard |
| On Feb. 3 Hidden TEC members have a unique opportunity to raise issues and
concerns with regional business and economic development officials. Whether
your needs are improved technology infrastructure, more parking in Valley
urban centers, office space or funding, this is your opportunity to make
your voices heard.
The time is 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Northampton High School Cafeteria, 380 Elm St. The following Northampton city and regional officials will be attending: City Economic Development Coordinator Teri Anderson has organized the event and will be joined by members of the City Council Industrial Affairs Committee and the Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Also attending is Betsy Foote from MassDevelopment (the project manager for redevelopment of the Northampton State Hospital); Tim Brennan, Executive Director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission; Edgar Alejandro, Manager of Economic and Community Development for Western Massachusetts Electric Co., and Humera Fasihuddin, the Regional Technology Alliance, Director of Cluster Development. Fasihuddin will provide information on the new RTA/TEC company directory followed by a brief presentation of findings from HIDDEN TECH AND THE VALLEY: At the Cutting Edge of the Global Internet Economy, a report on Hidden TEC companies developed and written by Amy Zuckerman Hidden TEC founder and co-chair -- with the backing of WMECO. The findings will set the stage for the dialogue between businesses, city and regional officials. Anderson, who originally proposed the dialogue with Hidden TEC, hopes that the meeting will serve to bring out the smaller technology related businesses in Northampton and Western Hampshire County. So far most Hidden TEC members are on the east side of the Connecticut River. "We want to identify these businesses in the Northampton area, learn more about their needs, and connect them to resources to help them thrive." URGENT: If you can't attend in person, please send any ideas, issues or concerns to Amy Zuckerman at azintl@crocker.com so you can be represented. People are encouraged to bring snacks and beverages to share. The fee is $2 for TEC members and $5 for the public. DIRECTIONS: Follow Rt. 9 through Northampton center. Go past Smith College. At the High School take a sharp left onto Elm Street. Parking is to the right of the building. Check to see if the parking lot entrance to the cafeteria is open. Otherwise, signs will be posted on the front of the building and inside. For more information contact: Teri Anderson at 413-587-1249 or Amy Zuckerman at 413-253-4124.
|