From the Desk of the Mayor- December 2022
Hello Neighbors-
December can be a hectic jam-packed 31-day celebration as each activity tumbles into another. Even with the endless fun, it’s OK to pace yourself, attend what you can, and simply say -NO- to the rest. There will always be a fresh supply of doings in the days ahead.
An annual event the first weekend in December is the Christmas Twilight Parade (sponsored by the Cowlitz PUD) and “Flip the Switch” activity (sponsored by Longview Parks and Rec), held at the Gazebo at Civic Circle. Standing under the gazebo, listening to the Lower Columbia College Bella Voce Choir in the frosty air, amongst a small crowd gathered in anticipation for the last float to turn the bend carrying Santa was already a thrill! It was on the directors’ signal, when an audible countdown began and the Matherson family, “Flipped the Switch”, which culminated lighting the entire Civic Circle. It was magical.
I’ve contemplated that switch flipping concept for many days. Are there ways we can flip the switch in our own lives and turn on the light around us in a more illuminating way? Whether it be by adding a little more kindness, taking a leap of faith, going out on a limb, splashing in a puddle, building a snowman, healing a heart, mending a friendship, falling in love, or however “switch flipping” resonates with you, be brave and flip it- every - single - day. Get ahead of New year’s traditions and start something new- today!
2022 has flown by in the City of Longview, with many notable accomplishments.
Here is a month-by-month glance at some of the highlights.
January - The Re-Election of Mayor Wallis and two new City Councilmembers- Boudreau and Wean, the opening of Longview Business Park, new housing plats recorded for Mt Solo Estates, upgrades proposed for Lake Sacajawea Park and Hemlock Plaza, and the unveiling of the American Recovery Plan Act infrastructure and development opportunities.
February -A Farewell to outgoing Councilmember Schott and welcome to newly appointed Councilmember Ortiz.
March - Changes to the landscape of our community will be coming soon, on behalf of the efforts of our State and Federal legislators: the addition of a Longview Police Station Satellite office building at Archie Anderson Park, a new roof at the Senior Center on Commerce, and a restroom facility at Vandercook Park.
April - A BIG snow in Longview, a trip to Boston to learn more about Divert, a food digester business moving to the Mint Farm, and a tour of Stay Safe Community in Vancouver to learn more about Pallet Home communities. Learning and asking questions helps us sharpen our understanding and improve our efforts. In what ways are we all willing to contribute in our community?
May - A trip to Washington DC to meet with federal lobbyists and share our gratitude to our State and Federal legislators for funding the crisis intervention team for the Behavioral Health Unit and advocate for federal legislative agenda items- (Columbia Heights Road, Downtown Longview Streetscapes completion, SWW Regional Airport infrastructure, and de-escalation training simulator for the police department.)
June - The fun never stops in Longview during the summer months! From concerts and movies at the lake, GoFourth Celebration, Cowlitz County Fair, Squirrelfest, Unique Tin and other great wholesome activities, there is something for everyone! What favorite activities did you participate in over the summer?
July - Updates were presented regarding Lake Sacajawea and Camp Alabama. While out and about in the community during the year, how can we see through a more positive lens for a more positive perspective?
August - Never give up. Never ever give up, and always remember that no matter what, YOU MATTER.
September - Seasons will come and go and we will all do our best to prepare for the “storms” and give thanks for the calm. What lessons are we learning to be better prepared? How will our community heal and grow from any decisions made? How can we all work together and celebrate the successes?
October - Before we celebrate our big 100th birthday in 2023, how will the community continue to strive to find ways to work together to fulfill our founder’s vision? How will all citizens enjoying the blessings of that vision do their individual parts to merit such a community?
November - Each and every day is a gift to everyone, and we can choose at the beginning of each day what contributions we will add to it, as we put our best foot forward, for ourselves, our family and our community.
December - Are we ready to flip the switch to 2023? Many grand celebrations will take place throughout the coming year. Remember to pace yourself, be grateful for the little and big things in life, never give up, and keep flipping the switch by adding more light and blessings to your life.
Be well, and holiday blessings to all,
Mayor MaryAlice Wallis
