The most wonderful time of the year
We have entered in that time of year where both sweet and savory aromas are filling each house and holiday tunes old and new are playing on the radio. That time of year where people are more giving, little ones are on their best behavior and people are expressing their gratitude and thanks to one another. As a councilwoman there are many things that I am thankful for as I look back over the year. I’m thankful for the many ways that I have been able to serve the people of Euclid. Whether it was volunteering for the annual big clean event, helping to solve the many problems of residents big and small, or the many opportunities to volunteer with the schools and work with the youth, either by speaking at an assembly, career day or being a mentor through the Always a Panther program. I’m thankful for the many relationships that have been built with residents that have agreed to be my eyes and ears in the community, ensuring that I don’t miss a beat when it comes to the ward. I’m just as thankful for the partnerships that have been formed with local businesses that seek to give back to the community. Like Mitchell’s Ultra Lounge who was a sponsor for the free summer movie nights for the past two summers, Simon’s supermarket who has on several occasions donated fruit to community events such as the 1st annual Ward 1,2,3 Community fair held back in September. This holiday season I am especially thankful for Nager, Romaine and Schneiberg Law firm located at 27730 Euclid Ave., who donated 125 turkeys to families in need. They served hot chocolate and donuts and even had Brutus the Buckeye to stop by wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving. I’m also thankful for B Stone bar and grille who stepped in and donated 15 turkeys with all the fixens to families in need. Imani church who for the last 12 years fed hundreds of people at their annual Thanksgiving Day community meal. It is these things that I am most thankful for. People coming together to touch the lives of others in a positive and sometimes lifechanging way. It is my hope that you take the time this holiday season and look back over all the things you can be thankful for as well as look ahead to the holiday to come and think of the many ways you can give back or pay it forward. Take advantage of this time, whether you brighten someone’s day with a song, by going caroling with your neighbors, or sharing a sweet recipe in a cookie exchange, maybe even adopting a family in need and purchasing a few gifts. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but its you that can make it wonderful for someone else. I hope your holiday is filled with joy peace, love and hope and the kind of happiness that spills over into the lives of everyone you meet. So, whether you celebrate Christmas like my family, Hanukah, Kwanza or you jut love the holiday songs, food and decorations, make it a great one for you, yours and someone else’s.