Mayor’s Column
December
By Mayor Anne Gerwig
This is one of my favorite times of the year. As we prepare for the holiday season, I am looking forward to the many family and community events ahead.
One of the best parts of living in Wellington is enjoying our family focused holiday events. This year, the Village kicks off the season with our annual Holiday Tree Lighting ceremony on December 2nd, starting at 7:00 pm at the Amphitheater.
Marching in on the heels of this event, join me and the rest of Council at the 33rd Annual Holiday Parade on December 11, starting at 1:30 pm. Enjoy this festive day with a judged parade of imaginative floats featuring school bands, local organizations, baton twirlers, and the biggest celebrity of all, Santa Claus! Vendors will be on-site with goodies available for purchase. Grab your family and your sneakers and come on out for this fantastic holiday event! The route begins at Wellington Trace and continues down Forest Hill Boulevard, ending at the Wellington Amphitheater.
It is easy to see why Wellington is named “The Winter Equestrian Capital of the World.” The holiday season heralds the return of our winter residents, both people and horses. There are more cars on our roads and more horses everywhere. It is a time for increased caution, especially as we get closer to the Holidays, and the beginning of the winter equestrian season.
Winter break for our schools begins Friday, December 23, 2016. That means more children out enjoying our Great Hometown. Remember to watch out for our youngest residents and take a little extra time to be aware of your surroundings on the road.
Safety doesn’t stop at your driveway. Christmas tree fires are responsible for untold damages, injuries and even deaths every year. If you’re using a live tree water it daily to keep it moist and remember to keep it away from open flames and heat sources. The greatest gift you can give our local firefighters is a day off.
Let’s not forget that the Holidays are a time of giving as well as receiving. By all means, visit Wellington’s fine shops and find that perfect gift for your loved ones. But remember to take some time to help our neighbors in need. This year, you can make a child’s holiday brighter by participating in the Hometown Holiday Toy Drive. Drop off your unwrapped toys by Wednesday, December 21st at Village Hall, the Wellington Community Center, Parks and Recreation, the Lake Wellington Professional Centre, and any Fire Rescue station.
Writing this column and sharing a few of the ways that we can gather and give as a community this holiday season is one more blessing I can count in my own life. I am very grateful for the privilege of serving as your Mayor. The past year has been filled with many accomplishments. I want to personally thank the volunteers, members of our boards and commissions, Village staff, and Council members for their dedication.
I want to wish you and yours a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and many blessings in the year to come.