Dover is all about family

Article published Feb 22, 2010
Communities often try to be the next hot spot by embracing trends, engaging in unsustainable development programs and boasting about a "great quality of life." What I appreciate about Dover is the underlying themes of family and community that ultimately are illustrated through our events, personal interactions and day to day routines.
Dover is well situated to absorb market fluctuations and economic turmoil better than some communities because it is a community that values families. Families are a fact of life, so it makes sense for community businesses to be sensitive to the needs and desires of families.
Ask any parents about their spending habits when it relates to their kids. You'll learn that it is a priority. This was recently noted at our recent Federal Savings Bank, 2010: Economic Forecast, when Federal Savings Bank President and CEO Jay O'Neill commented on the power of community banks and the mutually beneficial relationship they have with local family-orientated businesses.
In early 2010, we've already begun to see the anticipated gravitational pull of the Children's Museum of New Hampshire begin to become a reality. Not only has the Museum established itself as the top visitor attraction in the state, attracting over 150,000 visitors, they've also inspired others to begin to establish new businesses or re-focus their existing businesses on family oriented opportunities.
Noggin Factory, a downtown educational and toy store had their most successful year ever in 2009. Harvey's Bakery and Coffee Shop sees a constant stream of families in search of cookies for their kids. Up on Central Avenue, Dover Bowl has re-branded itself as a family fun center with a large arcade and other indoor attractions.  Matt Randall's Black Belt Academy has seen an uptick in attendance and the "Rockright Academy" at Ralph's House of Tone is full of aspiring musicians.
It's a credit to these existing businesses, and many others, who decided to focus on the Kid Economy in Dover. Even more encouraging, is the emergence in the last month of new destination businesses geared toward kids, including Twice the Fun, an indoor play gym, and Paint for Fun, an art project studio. These businesses did not choose to locate in Dover by accident; they saw a way to compliment what was already going on in the city.
As a result, it is now very easy for families to spend a solid four to eight hours in Dover, experiencing our local attractions, shops and restaurants.
On the first day of school vacation week in New Hampshire, I encourage you to visit www.dovernh.org and view the "Peek at the Week." This is a weekly events listing that features the dozens of things to do each week in Dover. As you are planning your activities, don't forget to think about the programming at the Dover Library, the Dover Ice Arena and the many other places for free or low-cost family fun.
As I mentioned, the family theme has always been an undercurrent here in town, probably partially attributable to our varied housing stock that can accommodate the changing needs of families — from young couples, to families, to empty nesters. In most cases, you don't need to leave Dover as your space needs change.
It is my feeling that the Kid Economy is going to become a popular refrain that translates into real prosperity for our community. Dover is already the host city for many regional swimming, hockey and baseball tournaments. We are beginning to get the foundation that makes us attractive for national youth sports championships. Thanks to these early gains by our progressive businesses, Dover is on the map in the minds of many parents and it will only continue to grow with time.
We'd welcome your thoughts, feedback and suggestions at info@dovernh.org. Follow the Chamber on Facebook.com/greaterdoverchamber and twitter.com/doverchamber.

Kirt Schuman is the Executive Director of the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is located at 550 Central Avenue in Dover and is dedicated to making good things happen for businesses, residents and visitors of Dover.