Creating a community together

One of New Albany’s greatest strengths is that much of the vivacity that powers the community is rooted in the city’s residents.

This special section is a unique one, a space for our readers to hear a handful of the voices that are part of the great tapestry that is New Albany. From young to old, the residents you will hear from exhibit the same dedication to self-improvement and healthy living, both mentally and physically, that New Albany holds as an integral part of its own identity.

A city’s identity is central to its ability for planned, successful growth. As a testament to the strength of this community’s passion for its city, Healthy New Albany decided to look to a handful of community leaders and residents here to see how they describe the place they call home. It was an exercise in creativity, but our responders willingly stepped up to the plate.

If New Albany were a person, what would it say?

If New Albany were a person, I’d want to be her friend. She’s a wonderful partner, an innovator, a hard-working beauty and a genuine trailblazer. She gives of her time and her money and is sincerely interested in all that she surrounds herself with. She has impeccable taste and high standards; this doesn’t mean she’s aloof or inaccessible, it simply means she has strong, purposeful principles. She takes care of her family and friends, but also values those who are outside of her circle. She loves new ideas, loves to learn and encourages well-being in both word and action. She is relational, a great collaborator, but is often misunderstood by those who don’t know her. However, those lucky enough to spend time with her will find her presence contagious, her efforts inspiring and her passion for living a model. She has a spirit all her own. I predict she’ll be legendary one day.

- Kristin Ferguson, director of marketing, Healthy New Albany

“I’m not just another pretty face. Yes, my white picket fences and stately Georgian

architecture are what people see on the outside … but didn’t your mother always tell you that it’s what is on the inside that counts? My vibrant arts scene, healthy living, strong schools, community collaboration and the passionate individuals living within my walls are my heartbeat. I’ll let you in on a little secret about me: I have an orchestra! Have you heard of it? The New Albany Symphony Orchestra. Its members perform four times a year at the McCoy Center. It is the best bargain in town and, if you hurry, you will be able to get tickets to Peter and the Wolf on Feb. 7 and An American in Paris on April 3! When you get to the concert, say hello to the staff, the musicians or one of the many fabulous volunteers. They are all very friendly. Make sure to tell them I sent you!”

- Heather Garner, executive director, New Albany Symphony Orchestra

Hi, Mom and Dad. So, I met this woman a while ago, and things are going very well. Her

name is New Albany. The first thing you will notice about her is how beautiful she is, but she is also warm, friendly and engaging. She has a ton of friends, and we all have so much fun together. Since I started dating her, we walk and cycle a lot around town. There are so many trails, but our favorite ones take us to an area called the Village Center, where there are a lot of events, restaurants and even a health and fitness center named after one of the local residents. Finally, Mom and Dad, she is very smart. I’m telling you, I think she’s the one. You are going to love her!

- Scott McAfee, public information officer, City of New Albany

“Teamwork! We work to build community and thoughtfully create new opportunities through

the talented individuals who live and work here. We join hands to make things happen and respect our shared values. We share fun times and friendships that make us proud to call this community home. Teamwork helps us succeed together and attract the best of the best. Teamwork drives the collaboration and initiative that sets us apart from the rest.”

- Megan Koester, executive director, North Central Region, Canine Companions for Independence

“Welcome! Like most beautiful people, I am deeper than my appearance. Sure, I am beautiful

to the outside world with my well-kept homes, top-ranked schools, successful businesses, parks, extensive trail system and cultural activities. But, I am so much deeper inside than my appearance. Not many communities have an attitude that says, ‘Great idea, how can I help?’ or, ‘I know someone you need to meet to help you attain that goal. Let me connect you two.’ I don't sweep things like bullying, drug use and suicide under the carpet. I bring those issues and more out so we can learn and deal with it together. I have neighbors who wave to each other, walk their dogs together, play at the playground and gather for athletic, community and cultural events. They don’t do these things because someone is watching. My community does these things and more because the people here enjoy each other’s company and feel safe. They know it’s just the most rewarding way to go through life. Certainly, I have my issues, but I am a community that engages, honors and celebrates each member. If you were to create a community, it would look like New Albany, but it’s my insides that help it to thrive and be alive.”

- Kristina Jenny, market manager, New Albany Farmers Market

“When people see my white fences, I want them to feel like they are home. My fences really

do make good neighbors, because they belong to everyone and no one at the same time. They don’t exist to keep anyone out; the gate is never closed. My white fences are there to welcome those within.”

- Bob Valasek, resident and Healthy New Albany Magazine contributing writer

“As a youngster, I was nothing more than a bit of land, but there was a plan for me,

established by a small group of remarkable individuals with a vision. As I grew, the plan was put into action, and I became a beautiful village. Today, I am known as a city – in fact, the “Best Suburb in America” – but I continue to hold on to my small-town charm. The members of my community are amazing; they are generous and passionate about helping others and, because of that, I am proof that when people come together for the greater good, extraordinary things can happen! I am unique, special and innovative. I am New Albany.”

- Julie Kriss, managing partner, Kriss Enterprises, LLC