Eight months ago we went into the first stay-at-home state ordered mandate. Today the latest COVID-19 local updates from the County are alarming. It’s hard to accurately compare the data from then to now as the reporting parameters have gone through various revisions. We’re all to believe that based off these latest figures on positive cases we are indeed experiencing an all-time high of reported infections. Drastic measures must be taken now or there will be ever increasing closures and a possible curfew. Timing of course couldn’t be worse but, pales in comparison to losing a loved one to this virus.

And yet we must find a balance between safety and living a life well lived. Not easy but few things are.

I talk too many who are strident in their choice to stay at home, order take-out, have it delivered and shut down their lives. Others are just as convinced that we have gone too far and we’re choking the life out of too many local businesses, so open up.

Whichever your belief, it is clear that we are not through with this pandemic and it will continue to dominate the news.

This morning we celebrated the 2^nd of our monthly Rising Stars celebrations via Zoom. Seven local high school students were recognized for being unsung heroes at their school. These are young adults who are nominated by their counselors and teachers as unsung heroes for their commitment to learning and giving back. The students are amazing and their stories shared are enough to break the most hardened skeptics. They are honored by the recognition and very appreciative of the opportunity they have to receive the financial support to further their education. I am buoyed by the feeling of hope I come away with after co-hosting these monthly calls and firm in my belief that the future is full of promise with students like these.

Congratulations to all the parents, families, counselors and teachers who are molding and guiding these future leaders and contributors to society --- we are truly in good hands knowing that these young students are our future. For more information about the program and a list of our sponsors please go the Chamber website. And please support and thank our sponsors as without them this program would not exist.

A special thanks goes out to Mona Durney for her managing this program on behalf of the Chamber.

Last week’s poll showed an overwhelming percentage of you are committed to shopping local this holiday season. Let’s all do indeed find a way to support local business whenever we can.

The Chamber is working in concert again with the City and the DBA to promote Shop Local Saturday this upcoming November 28^th, and more information can found below in the newsletter.