Investing in Arts and Recreation: A Path for Shepherdstown's Growth
Jefferson County’s missed opportunity: Why we should invest in arts, entertainment and recreation
The Shepherdstown Chronicle | Thursday, August 14, 2025
By Staff
In a recent piece for The Shepherdstown Chronicle, Donna Joy highlights the economic potential of the Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation sector in the county, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments to stimulate growth. Conducting a comprehensive analysis, she revealed a decline in AER jobs despite the national industry's growth, pinpointing a lack of local capitalizing on regional strengths such as tourism, through attractions like the Contemporary American Theater Festival and local festivals. Joy argues for modest investments in infrastructure and support for small businesses as a means to enhance job creation, income generation, and overall community vitality, all while preserving the area's unique charm.