The holidays are a special time of celebration, reflection and looking forward. Despite the challenges we face and occasional differences we have with one another, during the holiday season we come together to help one another and to give thanks for our many blessings. During this holiday season we are reminded of the message of humility and generosity towards each other. This time of year is one of my favorite times of the year because it is a time to enjoy the relationships with our family and friends and to bask in the cheer and goodwill of the holidays, and to put aside our problems so we can greet the New Year with renewed hope and optimism.
I am very optimistic about the coming year because we are so blessed to live in a great city in which together we have accomplished much this year and will continue a positive move forward to accomplish even more. As we begin the celebrations, I want to wish a safe, joyous and happy holiday season to all West Park residents. For those of all faiths as well as those of no particular faith, this season is one of peace, goodwill, and family and community celebrations.
The holidays celebrate values universal to all people and shared across our city. One of the joys of living in West Park is the broad diversity of faiths, cultures, ethnic backgrounds and ideological perspectives our residents embody while still sharing core beliefs in democracy, self-determination, civic responsibility and community service. I pray that we will live up to our highest ideals as a city in this season of celebration and charity as well as in the coming year.
VETERANS DAY
At the 11th hour, on the 11th day, of the 11th month of 2018 we will pause to honor America’s Veterans and celebrate their contributions to our way of life. Few have given more to our Nation than the men and women who have served in our Armed Forces in peace and in war.
This country owes a profound debt to all Veterans, and military families. For serving our nation with such bravery and distinction, our Veterans and current service members deserve our country’s profound gratitude – not just on Veteran’s Day, but every day.
Along with all the residents of the City of West Park, I want to thank our military personnel who have proudly served under the flag of the United States – including members of the VFW Post#8195 who served us proudly under that flag in faraway lands, but now are home. We salute you!
THANKSGIVING
Although we should remember the significance of all our holidays, I believe that Thanksgiving is the one which is best used for a time of reflection. I hope you will gather with your family and friends and take a moment to reflect, remember, and give thanks.
On a personal note, I am very thankful to have the opportunity to serve each of you and work together every day to make West Park a stronger City; one we all can be proud of and build upon for our children and children’s children.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving, please remember to reach out to those in our community who are less fortunate. That giving spirit helps make our community a special place to live. The strength of our city comes from you, our residents. I am thankful that we have active and caring citizens who are involved in their community. I’m also thankful for our City employees, who work hard every day to provide you with superior services and amenities.
To all residents of West Park – Happy Thanksgiving!
HANUKKAH
Happy Hanukkah to all those in West Park celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights. As families and friends share in the joyous traditions of Hanukkah, we recognize the power of faith to accomplish miracles and bring light from the darkness. May the joy of Hanukkah and the peace and goodwill of the season fill our hearts and inspire us to lead lives of compassion.
KWANZAA
I send greetings to those in the City of West Park observing Kwanzaa!!! During this joyous time of year, residents renew their commitment to hope, understanding, and the great promise of our City. In honoring the traditions of Africa, Kwanzaa strengthens the ties that bind individuals in West Park, our country and around the world. Happy Kwanzaa!
…AND FINALLY, MERRY CHRISTMAS!
As Christmas approaches and we prepare to close another year, we are truly blessed to live in a wonderful City that continues to accomplish much and move forward.
We have faced disappointments and difficult times this past year—as individuals, as families, and as a City. The beauty of Christmas helps us find a calm and inner peace and bring to life the words, “Silent Night, Holy Night, all is calm, all is bright.”
Christmas instills warmth in the hearts of people throughout West Park.
There is an important lesson for all of us to learn during this festive season. The holidays provide a moment to pause, reflect and believe in the possibilities of rebirth and renewal, which remain a powerful symbol of hope for a better future – a time to take a moment as we face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. As we come together as family and friends, I look forward to the coming year. I hope that in the months to come, we shall be able to renew our pride within our City, a sense of sharing a common heritage enriched by the cultural diversity of our community. I, as well as your Commission and Staff, hope that each of you find peace, hope, happiness, and health, as we continue to serve you to the best our abilities each and every day.
I am hopeful that you and your loved ones will have a joyful and blessed holiday season and that the New Year will bring peace and happiness. I am looking forward to the New Year with optimism and a true sense of duty to continue working with my fellow City Commission and staff to ensure that West Park continues to be prosperous and progressive.
As 2018 comes to a close, I wish each of you abundant blessings!
Thank you West Park for being a caring and giving community.
We are and will continue to be #ONEWESTPARK!
Remember to contact me at City Hall with your ideas, suggestions or concerns. I represent you and appreciate your input into the continued success of our beloved city. I can be reached at (954) 329-8990 or email fbrunson@cityofwestpark.org.
