GUEST COLUMN — Summer opportunities shine for Nederland impact

Published 12:04 am Friday, June 5, 2020

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Welcome to Summer!

Now that we have more opportunities to dine out or shop, why not visit one of your favorite restaurants and support a local small business?

Did you know that it is hard to find a bicycle or workout equipment for purchase in the area?

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More families and individuals have chosen to take up some new hobbies during this pandemic. Daily, I see people walking around town and riding bikes to get fresh air and exercise.

I have observed people working in their yards and completing home projects (maybe Honey-Do Lists).

There are guidelines in place for all of us to follow so we can beat this pandemic we are experiencing.

As we work together to support our local economy and get as close to the new normal as possible, Nederland never ceases to amaze me with community support.

There is something to be said about living in a small town! Nederland High School celebrated its 100th year of education and celebrated the 2020 Graduation at the Ford Park Amphitheatre.

Graduation had a different feel and venue, but we are so glad our Seniors were afforded the opportunity to walk across the stage and receive their diplomas.

As a member of many scholarship committees, it has been interesting to speak with students about their future plans, whether graduating from high school or college.

I am excited to see how many have chosen to begin a career in business or entrepreneurship. Starting on June 2, the Nederland Economic Corporation will have a Summer Intern from the University of Texas join us to work on some summer projects.

Having this new addition to our team, the Nederland EDC will be able to begin our updated Business Retention and Expansion Program while also starting our COVID-19 Business Surveys.

The beginning of Hurricane Season is upon us and we will watch diligently to make sure our businesses are prepared in case we have storms in the Gulf heading our way.

To all of our Nederland business owners and residents, we look forward to bringing some new ideas and great events to our area in the very near future. Enjoy the summer sunshine, take this time to spend with your family and be creative while still social distancing so the COVID-19 will not make an impact on Nederland, Texas.

During the unrest in our State of Texas, please remember to be kind, pray and support everyone who crosses our path in life.

As Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “We have always held to the hope, the belief, the conviction that there is a better life, a better world, beyond the horizon.” Make today the best day you can for you, your family and those around you!

Kay DeCuir is the executive director of the Nederland Economic Development Corporation. She can be reached at kdecuir@nededc.com.