Decades from now, 2020 will likely be remembered as the year of the coronavirus. And with more schools, restaurants and even sports leagues closing every day, most of us are hyper-focused on the present – and how to get our hands on that elusive package of TP.

But today also causes me to reflect on the past.

Remember when President George W. Bush defeated John Kerry to earn a second term? Or when the Indian Ocean earthquake and resulting tsunamis killed more than 200,000 people in Thailand and 13 other countries? Or when gay marriages were legalized in Massachusetts, the first state in the union to do so. Or Manny Ramirez leading the Boston Red Sox to a World Series title, ending a drought dating to 1918?

These momentous events all happened in 2004. Though not registering on the global scale, a momentous happening closer to home that year was the advent of InMaricopa. Our first story on what was then 85239.com was published March 15. Sixteen years later, we continue to proudly serve our community with objective, accurate and timely news about and for Maricopans.

We exist to inform you, our readers (and viewers). You have thanked us with your readership for 16 years, and we are grateful for and humbled by your support.

We also have loyal advertisers who support our efforts and allow us to educate and enrich our community. And, frankly, they support InMaricopa because our readers support them; so, readers, pat yourselves on the back because InMaricopa and our advertisers would not exist without you.

While I admit I would rather have founded Facebook, which launched a month before 85239.com, I am honored to continue to be a steward of a Maricopa institution. On behalf of the whole InMaricopa family, thank you for your readership. Here’s to the next 16 years, coronavirus or no coronavirus!