If there’s one kind of event that we do more than any other at SAGA, it’s Ribbon Cuttings. We’ve already had 18 opportunities to pull out the big scissors so far in 2026 alone, and we’ll add two more to that total before the month is out. It’s always a treat to celebrate a new opening; it’s positive proof that our business environment is thriving and a chance to get a firsthand look at the people, businesses, and organizations ready to start making a name for themselves in our community.
But openings aren’t the only cause for celebration in the life of a business or community organization. While Day 1 of a new enterprise is always exciting, it’s the days afterwards where the real impact is felt. That’s why, while new openings are the most frequent thing we celebrate, milestone anniversaries, major achievements, or new locations are just as important to recognize. In the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 20% of new businesses don’t make it 365 days, and they only have coin-flip odds of making it to five years. So, when a business reaches five years, ten years, twenty years or more of service to our community, it’s worth recognizing how they’ve beaten the odds, found success, and are continuing to make our area a better place to live.
And of course, there are more things to celebrate than making another lap around the sun. Across Sanford and Lee County, our local businesses and organizations are investing in themselves in exciting ways. Industries are expanding their operations. Businesses are opening new locations. Storefronts are being renovated and refreshed. All are reasons to celebrate, and all are an opportunity for a business or organization to reintroduce themselves to the community. When an existing business cuts the ribbon on a new chapter, we should all be just as excited as when they first opened, and proud of how far they have come
SAGA has had no shortage of opportunities to celebrate with our existing members so far this year, and we’re always looking for more. So, we encourage you: if your business or organization has an anniversary, an expansion, a remodel, a rebrand, or anything else that’s worth recognizing, let us know, and let us help you broadcast your success to our whole community. When Sanford and Lee County’s local businesses and organizations thrive in the long term, it’s good news for every one of us.