Join us for an illuminating fireside chat with Jim Blake, a master storyteller, as he unravels the captivating narrative of arts, culture, and economic development in the picturesque village of Haliburton, Ontario. Tucked away in the quintessential cottage country just north of Toronto, Haliburton has become a beacon of inspiration and innovation. In this intimate “Fireside chat,” Jim Blake will draw upon his storyteller’s prowess to share the invaluable lessons learned over 25+ years of fostering arts and culture in Haliburton. Explore the transformative journey of the Haliburton County Community Co-operative and its pivotal role in supporting the local creative community, nurturing SPARC, the rural Ontario network “Supporting Performing Arts in Rural Ontario”, while driving economic development in rural Ontario. Gain insights into the Co-operative’s commitment to capacity building and its profound economic influence on artists, arts organizations, and the broader community. This interview will include a Q and A from the audience.