We debated whether we should publish this issue as planned, delay it or not publish at all. In the end we decided to publish but to make editorial changes. The theme for this issue is still Building A Better Community, as was planned, but more about that later.

Here are the changes we made from what had been planned for this issue:

• We have acquired the emails of 41,000 business owners in Volusia and Flagler Counties and we will be extending our distribution to those businesses with this May Issue. 
• We added the article “How Businesses Are Responding during the COVID-19 Pandemic” written by Aaron London.
• We added a Q&A that I conducted with Nancy Keefer, president and CEO of the Daytona Chamber of Commerce and co-publisher of EVOLVE, focused on how chambers are supporting the business community during these challenging times.
• We added an article from Jeanne Coates, EVOLVE Sales and Marketing Director, titled “How to Keep Your Business Strong During the Coronavirus Epidemic.”
• And we have provided a list of United Way agencies providing assistance to the community.

In this Building A Better Community issue we examine some of the factors that help to create a “better community.” Our feature article highlights the vital role Team Volusia Economic Development Corporation plays in attracting high-paying jobs and millions of dollars in financial investment to Volusia County. We go on to explore the housing market in light of our area’s projected growth and some of the more notable parks and recreation projects taking place in the cities of Deltona, Ormond Beach and Port Orange. The issue also makes the case that dialogue and discussion are key to ensuring the needs of a diverse community are met, and we highlight the big impact of small businesses. Finally, in “The Road Ahead” Terril Bates, CEO of the Daytona Beach Housing Authority, shares her perspective on the Housing Authority and its impact on the Greater Daytona Region.

We are all being challenged to modify our business model to respond to these challenging times. As is always the key, communication with your customers, employees and suppliers/partners will be critical. If you want to use any of our publications, EVOLVE Magazine, Parent Magazine or Innovatus Magazine to help reach your customers or your market, contact us via email at info@touchpointis.com.

As Jeanne says in her article: “Stay positive: We will get through this. As much as possible, take advantage of this time to grow and become stronger!

Shop Local. Stay Close. Stay safe.

HOWARD M. HOLLEY
Publisher and Editor, EVOLVE