Thank you to everyone who donated and helped organized this year’s Santa Cop Project! Our members donated $2,600 and a carload of toys. Thank you for giving back to our community and bringing Christmas joy to families in need. A special thanks to Denny Van Horn, Matt Kinning and Ann Post for their time in reviewing the Mayor’s Draft Climate Action Plan. Ann Post has also testified at the Planning Commission regarding the City’s Affordable Housing Coordinated Action Plan. Thank you, Ann, for your help which is vital to helping housing in our community. We are reviewing and addressing potential amendments to the 2020 National Electrical Code. We hope this will be re-introduced in the 2021 Legislative session including our amendments. This is a good reminder of the importance of networking with our government officials so we can ensure bills are being passed that will help out our community.
As the year ends, I have been reflecting, we have all become like the Grinch this year. Isolated in our homes, talking to our dogs, bored and eating way too much food. I have heard many people tell me they can’t wait for this year to be over. The Grinch would lock himself in his cave, isolated from Whoville just waiting for the moment Christmas was over. At the end of the story, the Grinch comes to the realization, “What if Christmas, he thought, doesn’t come from a store? What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more?” This year, more than others, has made me realize Christmas is not about the presents we receive, or the stuff we have, instead it’s about celebrating and being with the people I love. My hope for everyone this Christmas season is to stop being the Grinch and worrying about what is happening in the world. Instead even just for one day, focus on what is right in front of you, your family and friends. Enjoy the time you get to spend with them and be thankful for the opportunity to be fully present with your loved ones.
On behalf of everyone at HBAL we would like to wish everyone a safe and joy filled Christmas season!