🎙️ Episode Title:

Building a Destination: Inside the Malone Chamber of Commerce

💭 Episode Description:

In this episode of the Epic Voices Podcast, host Tristan sits down with Mary Scarf, Executive Director of the Malone Chamber of Commerce, to explore what it truly takes to support small businesses and strengthen a rural community. From tourism and historic preservation to local partnerships and signature events like the Malone Fly-In, Mary shares decades of insight into Malone’s past, present, and future. This conversation highlights the importance of shopping local, collaboration over competition, and why community pride is essential to long-term economic success.

👤 Guest Information:

Name: Mary Scarf

Title: Executive Director, Malone Chamber of Commerce

Background:

• Joined the Malone Chamber of Commerce in 2009
• Previously served as Vice President, Treasurer, and President before becoming Executive Director
• Retired after 33 years teaching at Malone Central School
• Completed seven additional years as a long-term substitute teacher across the North Country
• Longtime community advocate with deep ties to education, tourism, and economic development

⏱️ Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction & Guest Background

Tristan introduces Mary Scarf and her journey from educator to Executive Director of the Malone Chamber of Commerce.

[01:05] What the Chamber of Commerce Really Does

Mary explains the Chamber’s core mission: supporting businesses by bringing people into Malone through events and tourism.

[03:26] Common Misconceptions About the Chamber

Clarifying that the Chamber is a nonprofit organization focused on advocacy, community building, and support — not profit.

[06:01] Events, Advertising & Business Promotion

How Chamber events, business-after-hours gatherings, and free promotional opportunities help local businesses gain visibility.

[07:59] Supporting New & Small Businesses

Resources, referrals, and training opportunities the Chamber offers to entrepreneurs and startups.

[09:12] Local Business Success Stories

Highlighting businesses like Café Nouveau and Malone Ford, along with the impact of ribbon cuttings and exposure.

[10:47] Community Collaboration in Action

Examples of partnerships with Malone Revitalization, Citizen Advocates, the YMCA, and local government.

[14:47] Tourism, Historic Districts & Growth

Why historic preservation matters and how Malone’s 400+ historic buildings can drive tourism and relocation.

[19:54] Challenges Facing Local Businesses

The impact of losing Canadian tourism, post-COVID struggles, and the importance of shopping local.

[23:18] Trades, Education & Workforce Needs

A candid discussion on the importance of skilled trades and diversifying post-secondary pathways.

[27:19] How Residents Can Get Involved

Personal memberships, volunteering, and the benefits of Chamber consortium insurance programs.

[29:17] Vision for the Next 5–10 Years

Tourism growth, regional maps, historic tours, and positioning Malone as a true destination.

[32:16] Signature Events & Community Traditions

Santa in the Park, park decorating, concerts, Summerfest, and the importance of volunteers.

[36:50] What Success Looks Like for Malone

Mary shares her vision of restoring Malone as the “Star of the North.”

[42:16] The Malone Fly-In & Community Impact

A heartfelt look at the Fly-In event and how it creates lasting memories and attracts new residents.

[46:56] One Message to the Community

A simple but powerful call to action: shop local.

💬 EPIC Quotes:

“We’re not a business — we’re a helper. We’re rooting for all of Malone.” — Mary Scarf

“If you don’t have a destination, people won’t come.” — Mary Scarf

“Shop local. Without local support, we won’t have local businesses.” — Mary Scarf

📣 Call to Action:

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to EPIC Voices for more conversations with the people shaping our communities. Follow us on social media, attend local events, and most importantly — shop local and support the businesses that support Malone.