CLOSING A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

Stephen Clerico

August 29 , 2008

Dear Participants of the Alleghany Craft Network:

The grant winds to a close on August 31, 2008. During my outreach for the Alleghany Craft Network, I encountered many interesting and talented people located in the rural areas of the grant project. Through application, phone calls, e-mail, and trips into the region I received not only the required information needed for Directory Listings, but I also received invitations to visit a number of studios and expand a conversation about craft. If you are one of those people who extended an invitation, I look forward to seeing you.

I believe value is a process and often interactive. I hope that each of you find value in your participation in the Alleghany Craft Network when you look back in the next year, or so. For those artisan participants just starting your journey in craft, please read about investing in yourself, and a few tips for using the network without spending any money.

If you are reading this note after my departure, please write to me at stephenclerico@yahoo.com, or call my home office in Free Union at 434-978-4109. I will respond quickly and we can discuss the field of craft. Maybe we'll meet for coffee. Thanks again for your participation, compliments, and discussions. I hope you find a new window of opportunity as a result of my work.

Stephen A. Clerico

Former Project Coordinator
Alleghany Craft Network