Reflections- March 2020 to 2021
This week marks one year since the pandemic closures came to our community. This past year we have all had our own personal experiences; some of us losing loved ones, others suffering from the isolation from family and friends, becoming ill, losing jobs or businesses, struggling financially, or feeling an overall increase in stress and anxiety.
We have also had an opportunity to experience the best in people. We have been able to see firsthand moments of selfless acts, compassion and what it truly means to be a community.
Residents came together to form new initiatives aimed at helping both businesses and residents, through groups like Stonington Feeds Stonington and S.H.A.R.E. Organizations like the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, NESS, the COMO, and Ocean Community Chamber of Commerce stepped up to support our community in new and creative ways (just to name a few!).
It has also, personally, been a bright spot in this dark time to see the dedication, creativity and determination of Town of Stonington staff. Individuals working within the Department of Public Works, Town Hall, Human Services, and Transfer Station day-after-day this past year exemplified what it should mean to be a public servant.
While the operations of our Police and the school system do not fall under the First Selectman, I do want to highlight the amazing work both groups have done over this past year, under extremely challenging circumstance. They are truly valued partners and deserve immense thanks for so much work they have done in and out of the public light.
Similarly, the efforts of the members of our many Boards and Commissions should always be noted, as the vast majority take on extensive work for our community as volunteers, this year additional thanks are needed. Moving to virtual platforms, while navigating changing regulations, was a daunting task at times, but our dedicated group kept our Town business moving effectively.
While we have accomplished a great deal of important work together, it has been through the kindness exemplified by so many in our community that we have been able to get through many dark days.
We know we still have challenges ahead of us, but that also means we can all continue to play a part in making a positive difference in our community.
Thank you Stonington.