Hello Ward 3, and the rest of Westfield. I hope you all had a Merry Christmas… I hate to sound Grinchy, but I could not help to notice the absence one very important element to this Christmas…Christ. Should re-name this holiday Santa Day???? Though it was wonderful to have all those stories on the News regarding everyday people doing wonderful things for other people that they did not know, and were very different than they. Especially wonderful were all the children and youth raising money, collecting food, clothes and toys. There is hope for our next generation, if this generation doesn’t mess up for them. I also found all the things being done by police, fire, and other first responders to help other people. Those who have gone to Puerto Rico, Texas, Florida, Nevada, and California to help. Those who opened up their hearts and their homes. So while we had nearly nothing about the message of the Christ, we certainly had people demonstrating it. The downside was the materialism and the, all about me folks. I do not know how many times I was almost run over by shopping carts and then given a dirty look for being in their way. We do have a reversal where the children are setting the example for older adults. I really would like to see a return of the message this day was to bring. In these time of fear, mistrust, and hate it is very much needed while the day is still called Christmas. The point in dispute is that it is OK to talk about and celebrate ones faith, just not to impose it on others that is for Old World tribalism, that most fled to come here to be able to practice their faith, read the 1st Amendment carefully.
Another example of this were the wonderful young adults at WTA, who ran a blood drive, and those from WHS who came to WTA to help out with the Christmas Buffet at Tiger Pride. Their interaction was seamless. Another example set. Congrats to both the young men and women at WTA and WHS.
I also want to thank DPW for the advance salting of the roads before the ice came in. And, all the terrific folks who work at Stop and Shop, Rite Aid, Westfield Bank, for being so positive especially with all the customers coming in, especially the grumpy ones to still be positive and in the Christmas Spirit. As an old guy who lives alone, with Ollie, my dog, and Poe my cat, it is almost like having family for the holiday. Also, I want to thank those who follow my editorials, and who encourage me to continue. Again, tell you neighbors, friends, family, and co-worker to get the Westfield News to keep up the real stories important to the people of Westfield. I will save my political comments until next time…again, I hope you all had a good Christmas, and remembered the message that it was supposed to bring.
I almost forgot the wonderful young men and women in the Horticultural Dept. at WTA, who were selling Christmas plants, and floral decorations in front of Tiger Pride. They and the great folks who teach and work that department should be proud of their demeanor and professional work. Those who missed last week’s more than tasty lunches, also missed the floral sales…You need to stop over more often. And, for only $8.00 you cannot go wrong with the fine quality and great service they provide. As well, I really want to thank Bobby Callahan, our city’s V.A. rep,and Karen Noblit, Senior Benefits Coordinator, at the Senior Center who have helped me in so many ways to get the services that I really needed. And, of course Tina Macy VIPS coordinator for enabling me to do some work at WT, Lt. Eric Hall and his delightful crew of our city’s finest, where I also do some volunteer work at the Community Policing station on Elm St. (stop by, most Fridays till the end of Jan.) And so many others at city hall, who not only do a great job, but, as if not more important, are wonderful and caring people.
Your former Ward 3 City Councilor, Brian Hoose…[email protected]
