Welcome to the 2026 edition of Let’s Connect – Closing Deals in Heels! This issue is devoted exclusively to successful women in our region. 

A common theme in many of our interviews is the importance of collaboration at all levels of an organization. Listening to other people’s perspectives often has many benefits far beyond the obvious aspect of making everyone feel valued. Free-flowing communication can reduce stress, drive innovation, and generally make the workplace a more enjoyable place to spend time. 

The community leaders we spoke to all struggle with maintaining work-life balance, yet they also accept that it’s perfectly normal for life to get a little messy at times. The key is to surround yourself with people who can help you get through the rough patches relatively unscathed. 

Another trend popping up in our interviews is that data is increasingly a key part of almost everyone’s job. Becoming a master analyzer of data can help you move up the corporate ladder, make better decisions, or even launch a new business. Thanks to the latest suite of AI tools, you don’t need a ton of technical knowledge to become a data wizard. 

One of the greatest joys many of our interviewees expressed was the satisfaction of sharing their life lessons with up-and-coming young women. Everyone who has had a great mentor knows that it can be the key to building a strong network, a prosperous career, and a well- rounded life. 

Finally, our article on the Homeland Center explores how tough, compassionate women have been playing a leading role in our community for 160 years. The facility was originally founded by 18 women from area churches with the goal of caring for widows and children in the aftermath of the Civil War. Now, the center is a multifaceted retirement community

Please email your comments to me at marsha@orisonpublishers.com.

Thanks for reading!

Marsha Blessing PUBLISHER