The image of someone praying for survival is a strong one. In our March 2 edition, we featured the story of a group of Valley women who have taken it upon themselves to pray publicly, not for their own needs, but for the success of every Valley business.

I was touched by the caring evidenced by this small group of women, and believe that their commitment reflects the fact that much of our Valley has been impacted by a changed economy.

When a business shuts its doors, we liken it to a light going out in the Valley. A small newspaper relies on its neighbors, and we are all linked together.

That’s why it’s important to cover more than just the gloom and doom. We strive to shine a spotlight on the people who are doing something to improve the Valley’s economy—be it praying, rallying and educating others, or trying new ideas.

We’ll continue to do so in the coming weeks and months. Our business page consistently chronicles the growth and change on our main streets.

I won’t dismiss the power of prayer, but I also have faith in the power of people to pull through. There is plenty that locals can do: Network, take part in Chamber of Commerce events and Women in Business seminars, talk to fellow business owners or visit their Facebook pages and websites and see what they’re doing right.

In our reporting efforts, we heard time and again the need to shop local.  From chambers and city officials to the real estate brokers and small business owners, all are in agreement that we are all in this together—that a successful future depends on local support. It requires residents to make a conscious decision to spend their dollars here, and not miles down the road.

Shopping locally keeps the tax base here and keeps locals employed and in their homes.

Historically, Valley communities exist because people came together for industry many decades ago and needed each other’s services. Our cities thrive when people take an active role, including an economic one. When we commit to the local, we invest in our community.