Hello North Platte,
My name is Aaron, I am the husband of a local business owner in the mall and a community advocate. I am making this statement on my own behalf, separately from any business, the mall, or any other individuals.
Martin Luther King said it best, “we must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.”
It was very disheartening to hear people being encouraged not to shop in the mall because of someone else’s actions, or lack of communication. I found it all to be the exact opposite of creating unity and coming together. Regardless of what happened, tenants had nothing to do with it and didn’t deserve that. To be clear, I appreciate and accept the apologies made concerning this matter. It is unfortunate the way this situation unfolded, but I am great full because it has given us the opportunity to better communicate, grow and be more understanding.
There are 18 businesses currently in the mall, and 6 in the parking lot, with 24 total. 9 of which are locally owned by people who put everything on the line to invest in our community. The mall generates millions in revenue every year, adding much-needed tax dollars for North Platte and jobs. The more we support all businesses in town, the more attractive we become to new businesses and possibilities as a community.
I want everyone to know how much we support and love the community we live in. We do what we can to help grow North Platte.
It was awesome to see so many come together, to walk for peace. I want to thank Rob for giving me time out of his day to talk, and bringing so many people together. What an amazing turnout!
Sheila from Maurices organized donations for pizzas, snacks and drinks for all involved in the Peace walk. I would like to thank everyone for their generosity from Maurices, GNC, Famous Footwear, Christopher and Banks, Foxy Nails, Brittany's, Viaero, Buckle, Riddles, Sequin Closet, Hibbett Sports, and Bath and Body Works. These donations came out of owners' and employees' own pockets. Anyone missing from the list was simply because of limited timing, not participation. We were thrilled to be able to offer cold water during the walk on such a hot day to so many grateful recipients. We are ONE, we are North Platte strong, and proud to be a part of this community! Thank you all!
I leave you with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”