A little more than a year ago we set out with a new tagline that was designed to be a charge for the community: Together. It was meant as a symbol of our city’s history of unification and as a charge to propel us forward in one common direction. Little did we know we would soon be facing a challenge that required us all to work together more than ever before.  

COVID-19 has stressed our community in ways we never thought were possible. This pandemic has caused so much change already, and we have a long road in front of us. 

Our first responsibility is to protect each other. Right now, in order to do so we have to make some tough choices that affect our businesses, workers, and economy. Together, we’ll get through these temporary setbacks.  

Togetherness can be shown by checking in on a neighbor, donating to relief causes, supporting your local businesses, or even by staying home and being careful.  If we all use this time to be intentional with our actions, we will get through this. We will have work to do and will be prepared to bounce back faster and better than ever. 

I urge you during these tough times, to focus on doing your part, whatever that may be. Our community needs to be a team right now as much as it ever has in our history. Our actions in the coming weeks can save lives. We will be right there with you every step of the way as we navigate the current health crisis and as we focus on solutions for economic recovery. 

One of my favorite quotes is an African Proverb that says, “If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” We will go far, and on the other side we’ll look back at this crucial point in our history and know that we overcame it as a community – Together.   

Mark Owens
President & CEO