It was not long ago that editorials on this very page railed against community leaders for their inability to cross jurisdictional boundaries, find common objectives and work together for the common good.

But as of late, both elected officials and business leaders from all corners of our community have come together in a spirit of partnership and put aside the petty differences of the past to work side-by-side for a better future.

The joint meeting held Thursday between the Franklin-Southampton Area and Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chambers of Commerce was a gathering that is truly symbolic of the renewed sense of partnership that exists in our community today. The fact that the meeting was held at the repurposed and revitalized IP Mill gives proof of what is possible when a community pulls together.