Vampires aren’t just for Halloween

December 13, 2016

A True Gift:
This time of year we are all thinking of the errands we have to run, the food we need to prepare and the gifts we want to buy for that special someone. The Christmas season has always been about giving to others, so it is only natural that we first think of our own loved ones, those that are near and dear to our hearts. There are others in our area that find themselves needing of a gift from us suddenly and often unexpectedly. This time of year with the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season and the ice and snow on the roadways, we see an increase in the number of trauma cases needing blood or blood products. One of the best anonymous gifts you can give this season is the gift of one unit of  blood or going to see the vampires as my son Spencer, would say. A single unit of blood can save a person’s life and it is so easy to donate. In this season of giving consider giving a truly anonymous gift that could change a life, you never know who might benefit, it maybe someone very close to you that benefits from this loving gift.

Last Meeting of the year:
The City Council held its last meeting on December 12 and held the annual truth in taxation meeting where we set our tax levy rate at 68% down from 70% last year. We have a new council member joining the council next year and we say good bye to Council member Roth. Ryan Christianson is filling the seat vacated when Sherry Roth chose not to run for reelection. I wanted to thank Councilmember Roth for her service and dedication and welcome our new council member Ryan Christianson.

Park Board Vacancy:
The park board has had some members retire, and this has opened up a couple of opportunities to serve our community. If you have an interest in identifying policy’s for our parks, keeping the plantings healthy or just an interest in helping shape the future of our parks, I encourage you to fill out an application in City Hall to be considered to serve on this important committee.

A Great Loss:
This past week America lost the last original member of the Mercury and Apollo era. John Glenn was an Engineer, Marine, Test Pilot, Executive, Senator and Astronaut. Glenn’s contribution to the war effort as a fighter pilot would have been enough to earn him a place in history, however, he went on to serve in a pivotal role in America’s new Space Exploration program and years later return to space on the shuttle. While Glenn was so much more than just an astronaut, it is his participation in the Space Program that he will always be remembered for. God Speed John Glenn, God’s speed.

Yearly Wrap up:
Take time and reflect on the past year. Remember the true meaning of Christmas is not about “things” but about people and Gods love. Share your love with those around you and make a real gift and give the gift of life to a stranger, hopefully this will bring a new meaning for the season and eventually become a holiday tradition. Merry Christmas Mantorville.

Yours in service,

Chuck Bradford,
Mayor - City of Mantorville
MantorvilleMayor@Gmail.Com
MayorBradford.BlogSpot.com