My View – December 2022/January 2023

It’s the most wonderful time of year in town—having counted our blessings at Thanksgiving, it’s time to celebrate Victorian Christmas with a long list of must-do community activities and events. In this two-month holiday issue, you’ll find information on everything from the Tree Lighting ceremony to the annual Christmas Parade to the tours at the Beekman House…and so much more! Of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday without a shopping spree. Lucky for you, we sent Peggy Dover out on the street to talk with locals and shopkeepers about some of their recommendations and favorite spots—catch her piece all “wrapped-up” on page 7 and thanks for shopping LOCAL.

With the City Council race in the rearview mirror, I’d like to congratulate candidates Ken Gregg, Andy Hellenthal, and Talon Reed for winning seats this election cycle. As unpaid volunteers, each brings a unique set of skills and talents to the post and joins the remainder of the council and mayor in guiding our town forward. Based upon the attendance at recent town hall meetings orchestrated by Planning Director Ian Foster and his crack staff, our citizenry is interested in being part of the decision-making process that shapes our future. The good news is more opportunities to learn what’s ahead are on the agenda.

At this time of year, it’s a pleasure to thank our advertising clients and contributors for making this publication possible—and you, the readers. On a very personal note, I’d like to end this year by also thanking a few special friends who helped my family navigate a challenging and weird year! There’s not enough ink to print them all, but a few of them are: Gates McKibbin, Anne McAlpin, Andrea Yancey, Sandy Brown, GeorgeAnn Crum, Mary Jo Bohnenkamp, Ken Gregg, Doc DeLuca, Corey Bergey, Eileen & Mirek Bobek, Ellen & Jerry Martin, Mark & Katy Paulino, the Cascino Clan, Rick & Jeryl Lemon, the Taibi Family… and many more.

Happy Holidays to everyone in our Small Town with Big Atmosphere!