2020…wow, what a year! While the coronavirus pandemic certainly has made an impact, to one degree or another, on all of our lives, we here in Southwest Indiana have done our best to adapt and learn how to deal with the “new normal.” Each year, Keep It Local allows us to take a peek into our community to see how we continue to grow and prosper collectively. This year’s edition shows how, even with the added burden of COVID-19, our corner of the state still finds many different ways in which to shine. We have always had several community groups that make sure quality food is available for those in need, but with many new challenges, including more people who are in need of those services, these groups have had to find a way to fulfill their missions by Bringing People to the Table (page 10). We also focus on seven area businesses that have found out how stay resilient and successful during a worldwide pandemic by Turning Adversity Into Opportunity (page 20). Meanwhile, business as usual continues for our region’s development, with Regional Cities winding down, highlighted by this summer’s ribbon-cutting of the initiative’s centerpiece, The Post House. Growth continues with a new Deaconess Downtown Clinic; the massive redevelopment of the former Old National Bank building, to be known as 5th & Main; and plenty more, from new restaurants to a new home for LST-325. Also a first, our Multi-Cultural Business Directory, a listing of minority locally owned businesses in our area, makes its debut. Our hope is that you are safe and well as you read over this publication. #TogetherWeThrive
