Mayor's Note (Nov. 2020)

As the last glimpses of summer sun have left us and with a little apprehension, I have come to accept the changing seasons. While this month means rain boots and shorter days, for me, November is also a period marked by the opportunity to pause, reflect, and give thanks. Here are five things that I am thankful for:

1. Tualatin's resiliency. Many in our community have struggled and met with unprecedented stresses over the last six-months. I am proud and awed by our community's resiliency. We remain engaged and passionate about Tualatin, kind and compassionate to our neighbors, and hopeful and committed to our futures. 
2. Our volunteers. The City has a vibrant volunteer program and has benefited from continued - albeit in somewhat different forms - service. The spirit of volunteerism enriches our City, community organizations, and natural spaces. 
3. Veterans. Veterans Day has special meaning for me, and I look forward to the annual breakfast at the Juanita Pohl Center. In the typical 2020 fashion, we have pivoted and will be celebrating in different ways this year. Watch out for yard signs throughout the community recognizing those who have served. 
4. The right to vote. Voting is perhaps one of the most important civic duties each of us has. The deadline to mail in your ballot has passed, but you can still drop off your ballot at the Library drop box. 
5. Health care workers. I am grateful for the work health care workers do to care for those who have contracted the coronavirus. Again, we must remember to follow the Oregon Health Authority's health and safety guidelines to protect our communities, especially during the upcoming holiday season. We do not want a surge of COVID-19 cases as the year comes to a close.

I encourage you to take time to pause, reflect, and give thanks in whatever way you choose to this November. 

Read previous Mayor's Notes in Tualatin Today.