Connection

One thing that I feel is important is the connection in our community. As the city has grown and I've spoken to residents, they often say, "I used to know my neighbors. I feel like I don't know anyone anymore. We need to stop growing!"

My perspective is a bit unique, since I've canvassed the city three times during campaigning. I get to meet so many residents and hear from them individually. Last night, I had a resident offer me zucchini and tomatoes from their garden—it doesn't get more neighborly than that on the campaign trail!

But hear me out: you don't have to run for office and campaign to get these connections! Connections take work and some time. The world is constantly changing and evolving. Technology, social media, and a global pandemic changed things. Change is all around us.

But if we accept that change is inevitable and choose to evolve and change along with it, we open ourselves up to new things and ways to feel a deeper connection in our community.

Did you know that West Point has an Arts Council? They have thought of a variety of activities that bring people together who have common interests. I'm sure there are some ways to bring people together that you might have in mind that would enhance our city and spark new friendships or deepen others.

What I'd love to see is for you not to wait on West Point to do formal programs and activities, but to talk to your friends and neighbors and take some action. Plan an activity or event, share it, ask others to share, and make some new connections.

I believe our city grows stronger with these deep and meaningful connections. I also believe we are all more alike than not, and we shouldn’t be discouraged by new residents, because I firmly believe that the awesomeness that is West Point attracts more awesome and wonderful people. We just have to get to know them!