Sara’s blog about the researching rural community development in Balaton-felvidék

I was fortunate attend a conference recently with researchers from all over the European Union, looking at everything from economics of urban areas, to audiology and thought processes, to results of the economic recession. I connected with three researchers in Poland and Italy examining how rural development is helping their regions succeed. We talked about similarities between Poland and Hungary especially and saw how important it is to plan ways to engage youth, and to support the people of the older generations so they can age gracefully in their homes and in supportive communities. I was proud to tell stories about Éltetõ, about the ways it helps tie businesses and people together in this region, and how it is helping the region plan for strong communities well into the future.

On a different note, I am very excited about the start of Spring here in the Balaton Uplands and am hoping to meet more of you as your wineries and businesses open again for the season. I am also looking forward to witnessing the Easter traditions here, and of course learning about which foods are prepared as we get fresh produce from this area again. It looks like Hungary is going to be absolutely beautiful in the Spring!