I’m so grateful for all of the people who went out of their way to wish me a 20th work anniversary with The Business Journal last week.

You might’ve seen my Executive Profile Q&A in Friday’s paper. In addition to that honor, Publisher Gordie Webster and Associate Publisher Ashley Webster Rudolph went the extra mile during a company lunch at Elbow Room on Friday — surprising me with my own personal cardboard cutout, video messages including from Mayor Jerry Dyer and a City of Fresno proclamation declaring April 24 “Gabriel Dillard Day.”

 

I was floored. I’m not one who enjoys being in the spotlight, but to have so many people help mark my special occasion is incredibly humbling. I’m beyond lucky to have had the opportunity to grow in this job, covering this dynamic community.

The people behind the businesses of the Central Valley — big and small — are the backbone of our economy. It’s been a pleasure to serve them as readers for so long. They are scrappy, civic-minded, outspoken and resilient. They make the kinds of quiet contributions that are easier to notice in their absence. Let’s hope we never get there.

After 20 years, much has changed, but one thing has remained: The Business Journal’s commitment to deliver the most comprehensive and exclusive local business news and information. It starts at the top with the Websters, who this year are also celebrating the 140th anniversary of Pacific Publishing Group, the parent company of The Business Journal.

I’m proud to have contributed 20 years of my career in journalism to that 140-year anniversary. And I’m excited for the future.