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This is AWESOME!</div>
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Thank you, Megan!</div>
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<div id="divRplyFwdMsg" style="font-size: 11pt;" dir="auto"><b>From:</b> OMS_MANAGERS <oms_managers-bounces@omls.oregon.gov> on behalf of Megan Dompe <coburgmainstreet@gmail.com><br>
<b>Sent:</b> Wednesday, February 4, 2026 1:27:15 PM<br>
<b>To:</b> Oregon Main Street Network Members <oms_managers@omls.oregon.gov><br>
<b>Subject:</b> [OMS_MANAGERS] Unifying communities during times of tension<br>
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<div dir="auto">Hi Everyone!</div>
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<div dir="auto"> I wanted to share with you a list I compiled after researching some good tips for community unification in times of political tension and conflict. These are really divisive times all over, Coburg is no exception. Given our leadership in community
outreach, welcoming diverse voices, and inclusive place making… I feel this messaging is aligned with the work we are doing while making sure to not engage in any political action or leaning statements.</div>
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<div dir="auto">Feel free to use this list! This is truly just a compiled list of tips I found online to share with our board, local stakeholders, and community members as needed from this point forward.</div>
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<div dir="auto">———————————</div>
<p dir="auto">1. Remember the human before the position</p>
<p dir="auto">Behind every opinion is a neighbor, a parent, a volunteer, or a small business owner. We can disagree without dehumanizing one another.</p>
<p dir="auto">2. Choose direct conversation over public confrontation</p>
<p dir="auto">If something feels hurtful, concerning, or unresolved, reach out privately when possible. One-on-one conversations reduce misunderstandings and lower the temperature.</p>
<p dir="auto">3. Assume good intent until proven otherwise</p>
<p dir="auto">Most people are acting from care, fear, or a desire to protect what they love, not from malice. Starting from curiosity instead of accusation keeps doors open.</p>
<p dir="auto">4. Keep public spaces safe and welcoming for everyone</p>
<p dir="auto">Downtowns, parks, and community spaces belong to the whole community. Let’s engage in ways that don’t intimidate, threaten, or make others feel unsafe.</p>
<p dir="auto">5. Take a pause when emotions run high</p>
<p dir="auto">Strong feelings are understandable, but taking a moment before responding can prevent words or actions we can’t take back.</p>
<p dir="auto">6. Lead with listening, not winning</p>
<p dir="auto">The goal of conversation isn’t to change minds, it’s to understand perspectives. Feeling heard often matters more than agreement.</p>
<p dir="auto">7. Remember our shared stake</p>
<p dir="auto">No matter our politics, we all want safe streets, thriving local businesses, healthy families, and a community we’re proud to call home.</p>
<p dir="auto">8. Model the behavior we want to see</p>
<p dir="auto">Calm voices, respectful language, and kindness are contagious. Each of us helps set the tone for the community.</p>
<p dir="auto">9. Protect relationships, even when ideas differ</p>
<p dir="auto">Friendships, neighborly trust, and community goodwill are harder to rebuild than disagreements are to resolve.</p>
<p dir="auto">10. Reach out when you’re struggling</p>
<p dir="auto">Times like these are heavy. Lean on trusted friends, neighbors, or local support instead of carrying it alone.</p>
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<div dir="auto">Hope you all are doing well! Looking forward to seeing you all at Oregon Heritage Conference if not before. </div>
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<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Megan Dompe</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Director of Coburg Main Street</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">PO Box 2875</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Coburg, Oregon 97408</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">(541)913-6570</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><br>
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<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">"Start where you are, </div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Use what you have, </div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Do what you can." </div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">- Arthur Ashe</div>
<div dir="auto" class="gmail_signature" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34);"><img src="cid:ii_lkii04hv0" alt="Outlook-oqfl5f5k.png" id="ii_lkii04hv0" style="max-width: 100%;"></div>
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