Upon an accidental journey through the faded resort town of Sharon Springs some 25 years ago, Garth and his husband discovered a historic community in ruins whose perilous fate redefined their life paths overnight. Leaving their New York careers behind, they were unknowingly about to embark on professional and personal journey's of self discovery and growth. From "defining the need" for a community gathering place (Rockville Cafe, where locals asked us "why would you ever want to open business here?!"), to "defining the need" to save the venerable (but crumbling) 1840's American Hotel and its subsequent resurrection (echoed in the strains of: "but why?!"), to having a genuinely respectful interest in it's residents and their place in Sharon Springs history, they now find themselves today surrounded by other visionaries and self starters who share in the commitment to community, the historic fabric and the celebration and pride in all things local.

Formerly a Broadway conductor and keyboardist, Garth is co- owner of the American Hotel in Sharon Springs, New York and founder/President of Hero Fund America, a non-profit dedicated
to first responders. Additionally, Garth serves on the Board of Directors for Bassett Hospital (Cobleskill regional) and the Klinkhart Hall Arts Center.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx