By Lori Coon

Starting Friday night, Columbia's City Hall was to be highlighted in blue lights to show support and say thanks to all the healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“As our community collectively deals with the effects of Covid-19, we know that our healthcare workers are on the front line working hard to care for our friends and neighbors,” said Councilwoman Tameika Isaac Devine.  “As we continue to #StayHome to help reduce the spread of disease, we want to let them know that we appreciate them and are keeping them in our prayers.”

The blue lights will be displayed on City Hall at night for the next two weeks, and the time frame may be extended, city officials said.

And South Carolina Commerce Secretary Bobby Hitt said in an email message last week that as state officials continue to navigate COVID-19, his Team South Carolina also wanted to express its gratitude to "the many front-line workers who are keeping our lives moving by providing critical services."

"We have all gained a new perspective and appreciation for the grocery store staffs, truck drivers, medical professionals, pharmacists, law enforcement officials, manufacturers and others who are working around the clock to provide the essentials for daily life," Hitt said. "These selfless individuals are putting themselves on the front lines to care for the sick, stock our pantries and ensure our health and well-being."

He added, "All of us from Team South Carolina offer our heartfelt gratitude and respect to these professionals. We thank you for your dedication and commitment to our families, our businesses and our communities during this uncertain time."

We at Integrated Media publishing, and our Greenville Business, Columbia Business Monthly and Charleston Business magazines, also want to offer our sincerest thanks to all of the state's healthcare workers who are making such a difference.

Our employees have family members in the healthcare field. We know firsthand the challenges they face professionally - and personally. 

We do what we can to be supportive - staying in contact, reading to grandchildren via FaceTime and praying that everyone will be safe.

After all, we know we're in this together.