News Flash: It Has Not Been a Normal Year

Once again, it does not need to be said that this hasn’t been a normal year.

I think that’s been the topic of just about every one of my columns since March. Obviously, nothing has gone like we expected this year, and for some, the results have been disastrous. Some small businesses, beloved local businesses, have gone completely under, not to recover from the COVID pandemic.

As such, this is definitely not a fair year to hold any sort of normal, “best-of” contest to compare businesses, entertainers, or anything else. What we can do, though, is try to throw as much love as we can to some of our beloved local partners and friends.

Here, in this unusual Best-Of: Pandemic Edition, you’ll read about how many different, local businesses worked hard to make things work, despite all the challenges. Instead of best patio or best local entertainer, you’ll read about the best adaptations and pivots to offer new services in a safe, thoughtful way.

All we can do this year is stay safe, stay smart, and try to support local business when we can. If you have any expendable income this holiday season, consider supporting a business in our gift guide or or best-of round-ups.   

-Addison Herron-Wheeler