10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1: HAPPY NEW YEAR! To start the new year, it is a tradition to make resolutions to improve one’s life.  What could each of us do in Rancho Cordova to take our bright past and turn it into a brilliant future?  Here are some ideas that we could work on together to help Rancho Cordova thrive in the new year.

First, our motto could be “Buy in Rancho,” so we can help all the businesses in our community.  Whether you live or work in Rancho Cordova, buy your household items, food, and services here, when possible.  If a store doesn’t have a location here, mention to the manager about opening a store in Rancho.  Let us be ambassadors for opening new businesses in our area.

The Rancho Cordova Chamber of Commerce’s website, RanchoCordova.org will help you locate businesses and services that you need.  Chamber members are businesses that work together to build the economy in Rancho Cordova.  You can search the directory to find reputable businesses, including financial institutions, real estate agents, restaurants, attorneys and many more services.

Our second resolution could be to “Stay Fit” both physically and mentally.  Rancho Cordova offers many beautiful outdoor spaces to enjoy while keeping our immune systems vital: golf at Cordova Golf Course; walk around your neighborhood; run, bike or walk over 26 miles of city trails; or enjoy one of our many parks. By enjoying outings in our own neighborhoods, we are energizing our bodies to fight off this virus.

Our last resolution could be a line from a song, “Don’t Worry Be Happy,” written by Bobby McFerrin in 1988.  Yes, this sounds simple.  My niece tells her grandpa, “Don’t watch the news!” but he is going to stay informed.  We can, however, look for joy in many areas.  Reach out to contact friends and family whom you haven’t seen.  If you are a spiritual or religious person, find a place to worship. During these hard times individuals and families can find joy from a spiritual relationship, and Rancho Cordova is home to over 43 places of worship.

As 2021 kicks off, take a moment to reflect and choose your three resolutions for the New Year.  I am sending you my best wishes for a joyful future.