Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1488524
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2023 | maconmagazine.com 35 F L O R A L A R T I S T RY JULIEDOMINY.COM forward with education, economics (addressing redlining), the development of urban leaders and the communities they live in, and also being a voice for those who may not have one. What ideas do you have to increase participation and increase diversity? GARY: We will continue to tell the wonderfully unique stories of Macon's neighborhoods and citizens as our visitors want to experience all of Macon. ERIN: Identifying issues and opportunities that affect an even larger community base will inherently increase participation and diversity. I am elated to work with, learn from, and build alongside my fellow tri-chairs! Dominique and Gary are established, dynamic leaders in this community, and, genuinely I am looking forward to creating "Macon Magic" with them as well as each of the working committees to continue and further the new strategic plan! DOMINIQUE: I think we have to be intentional and go where people are and invite them into places where they may not normally be invited. We have to create learning communities where we can listen to each other and speak freely as well. What excites you most about Macon in the next five years? GARY: The world is now noticing Macon through all the hard work of visionaries in our community. It is exciting to introduce the world to Macon, Georgia, and show all the wonderful qualities that make Macon home. In building a destination that people want to visit, we also create a place that people want to live, open a business, and raise their family. That is exciting to me – sharing my home with new visitors which can become new residents. ERIN: To have received each of the former Chairs' support, confidence, and belief to further this necessary work, I am equally humbled and honored. Macon was a completely different place when I arrived in the fall of 2004 compared to Macon as she stands today. "Cities exist, but communities are made." Macon was just a city when I started college, but today — Macon's change agents, collectively, took a bold stance: Macon's best days will be ahead of her. The next five years excite me because we are leaning into the uncomfortable, having transparent discussions, listening (for the most part) to each other, and collaborating. We are honest about our challenges, committed to addressing historical wrongs/failures, while boasting a genuine passion for Macon to reach her potential, and yet dreaming about the impossible, and even daring to do it! DOMINIQUE: There is an energy that is brewing in Macon that we need to catch. I am excited about the work that Cure Violence, The Urban CEO Inc. is doing. There are people that I am excited about the most. I'm excited about the diversity that you are bringing in Macon Magazine. Also, there are people who are reaching across racial lines and trying to make a difference as it relates to race and economics.