Michael Shuman, one of the nation’s leading experts on community economics and author of The Small-Mart Revolution: How Local Businesses Are Beating the Global Competition, will be the featured speaker at the Hannah Grimes Center’s annual CONNECT event, October 12, 2011 at Alyson’s Orchard in Walpole, NH.

An economist, attorney, author and entrepreneur, Shuman is Director for Research and Public Policy for the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies (BALLE). Shuman advocates that the key to community prosperity includes a vigorous network of locally-owned businesses serving primarily local markets. His point of view challenges traditional economic development practice.

“We’re thrilled to have a nationally known expert like Michael Shuman at CONNECT 2011,″ said Mary Ann Kristiansen, Executive Director of the Hannah Grimes Center. “We look forward to his discussion about how communities can build strong networks of locally-owned businesses that contribute to a vibrant community and thriving regional economy.”

Shuman is also scheduled to discuss local living economies as the featured guest on New Hampshire Public Radio’s The Exchange, at 9:00AM on October 11.

CONNECT 2011 will be held Wednesday, October 12, 2011, from 5:00 through 7:30 p.m., at Alyson’s Orchard in Walpole, NH. Everyone with an interest in the long-term economic health and vitality of the Monadnock region is welcome.

In addition, Roy Matheson of Matheson & Associates will be presented with Hannah Grimes’ 2011 Entrepreneur of the Year award at CONNECT 2011.

To register visit www.HannahGrimes.com. Tickets are $30 online and $35 at the door. You may also call the Hannah Grimes Center at (603) 352-5063.