LUSELAND — When I began my tenure as mayor of Luseland in November 2020, it was difficult to anticipate what the role would bring, however, I knew it would be a different one from that of my predecessors. We were in the middle of a pandemic and life would become different, as it still will be, possibly, for years to come. Despite the many challenges and changes we’ve had to make to the ways we interact, do business and gather together, I’ve been overwhelmed by the incredible kindness and sense of community responsibility as we step up to face issues that we’ve never had to tackle.
One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced the past year has been the inability to engage with local people in the same manner I once did. I’ve had to find new ways to reach out to the various groups and people in the community and surrounding area. I’ve strived to have a larger social media presence, as has the Town of Luseland, so that we could connect and keep our citizens informed.
We were still able to hold some important events this past year, like our first fall fair, organized by the Luseland Community Development Committee and the Team Flahr with Flair MS Bike Ride, which had much success and brought our community together to raise money for MS research. Despite the restrictions and worry about how we would hold these events during COVID, we got creative and had drive-thru barbecues and modified and limited numbers at certain events. We persevered and weathered the storms of the pandemic. We also hosted a mental health workshop, which I can’t even describe the timeliness of, and most recently a paint night and fundraising event for a capital upgrade to the community hall.
I’m confident that we are coming out on the other side of this pandemic and will be stronger for it.
If anything, 2021 has shown us resiliency and a resolve to carry us through times of anxiety and stress. We have a renewed value for loved ones, friends and the colleagues who have sustained us through these times. There is greater appreciation for health services staff and others who lead the frontline, who ensured our lives could continue with as little disruption as possible. We will look differently at our local businesses and continue to support them as they enter a lengthy period of recovery. We will have a renewed compassion for those who are alone, for our elderly neighbours and relatives and for those living in care homes and we will continue to put in measures to protect and care for them as they deserve.
Let 2021 be a year of reconnection to one another and to review the things that truly matter most. As we look forward to Christmas and the New Year, let’s be reminded of the greatest gifts ‑ health, safety and our well-being with the hope of better times ahead.
I want to wish everyone a safe and joyous holiday season and a new year filled with promises and opportunity.
