want to mention one group that helps make this area such a great place to live, and that is the Mount Vernon Lisbon Community Development Group (MVL-CDG, or CDG). For those who don’t know, CDG is one organization that covers a lot of civic areas. This includes tourism, Chamber of Commerce, economic development plus a smattering of historical preservation to boot. In other words, they are a force behind a lot of the good stuff that happens here, like assisting with the many festivals, and helping businesses apply and win many state and nation-wide grants/contests for both building improvements & business expansion.

I personally have the privilege of helping with the volunteer appreciation event they put on every summer. These two towns have so many great volunteers, and yet everyone is modest, not wanting the spotlight. CDG gives out several awards, and I am always amazed to hear how much the honorees selflessly do for the community – without ever expecting any recognition for it. It feels so good to be able to give them, and all of the volunteers we have around here, some heartfelt thanks.

CDG also funds it’s own BIG grants to help community businesses get noticed with facades and signs (applications are due in early December!), puts out community surveys to help our businesses, works on expanding the community’s presence on social media. And more.

In November CDG is starting it’s annual appeal for funds. I would like to remind everyone of the great work they’re doing and ask those of you reading this to participate in their annual fundraising drive as best you can. Respond to the fundraising letter when you get it, go online and donate, or contact the new director, Jessie, at the Visitor Center in Mount Vernon to see how you can help.

Your donation will go to keeping so many great events and programs going, and perhaps even help CDG expand their work. It all helps the two towns of Lisbon and Mount Vernon continue to be one community that’s an incredible place to live.

– Barbara Ihde, Lisbon