Friday, January 1, 2010

A New Year, and a New Term

Happy New Year, Vancouver!

We had a great New Year's Eve event last night at the Heathman. Thanks to all of you who attended and helped make our first annual NYE Bash a huge success! And for those of you who didn't make it -- we'll catch you next year!

I'm looking forward to starting my new job as your Mayor on Monday. I and the rest of City Council will be sworn in at the start of the council meeting on Monday, January 4, at 7pm. We'll do it first thing after the pledge, and then we'll have a few minutes after to visit with you, before we dive in to this exciting new term! You are all welcome and invited, and I hope to see you there!

A big thanks to our community nonprofit organizations who were selected as beneficiaries for all of last night's proceeds. The Parks Foundation of Clark County and Community Choices are both very close to my heart and do incredible work to help make our community a healthier, greener, safer and more beautiful place to live, where each of us can thrive. And not only do they work hard at their "real" jobs, but Cheri Martin and Sharon Pesut, Executive Directors of the Parks Foundation and Community Choices respectively, threw their heart and soul, staff time and late nights of their own into helping make this event a resounding success. Thanks to both of you and your Boards, staff, volunteers and supporters.

And thanks, as well, to The Heathman Lodge for hosting us and pulling out all the stops for this event. Incredible food, great service, and an absolutely wonderful staff. We also received many, many donations for raffle prizes, decorations, and consumables from so many local businesses and individuals -- thanks to ALL of you!

DJ Randy Mueller spun us through the night, and our volunteer team that included Sharon and Cheri, RaeAnn Clark, Maija Mercer, Lisa Goodrich, and Roy and Cindy Heikkala are the ones who really made the magic happen.

I am continually honored and humbled to represent this incredible community on our City Council -- and I look forward to continuing that service as your Mayor!

Happy New Year, and best wishes to all!