2020 was a difficult year for all of us. Several “storms” hit us in varying ways, but we weathered each storm because we are Cedar Rapids — a community where we care about each other, work together, find solutions and never give up.
While no response to the pandemic or the derecho could be perfect, this community stepped up to help our neighbors and our city. The remarkable work done this year by so many - work that I know will continue in the future - will pay big dividends for all of us in 2021 and beyond.
I hope our common resolution for 2021 will be to continue to show the kindness and compassion we showed for others in 2020, to stay involved and connected with each other, to volunteer in ways you enjoy and, finally, to plant trees.
I firmly believe 2021 will be a year when we can celebrate Cedar Rapids together. Here’s to a safe and happy New Year.
Brad Hart is mayor of Cedar Rapids.