From the Mayor's Desk
Dear Fellow Residents,
Christmas is a time for families and friends to share the best and for everyone to think about our fellow man and woman and extend the spirit of peace and goodwill. Luckily, we live in
a town with a proud history and experience of making the best of everything. The residents of Stratford have a tremendous community spirit and resilience.
Our town is blessed with talented people in business, education and in the community volunteer sector. Our employees are hard working and dedicated. Our entire community of people deserve the best and we will continue to achieve in 2012 and build on our efforts of last year in spite of the adversity facing our town and country.
Let this Christmas time be about the celebration of who we are as a borough, a nation, as mankind and together we can enhance the celebration of this season for everyone and look to 2012 with confidence and hope.
In these challenging times, it is easy to forget what is the essential Christmas message, the message of hope for a better future. Let us not become isolated in our own thoughts. At Christmas time in Stratford, we have the opportunity to value and celebrate our community of residents, those who have settled in our wonderful town and the servicemen and women who have settled abroad and who cannot be with us at this time. Our thoughts and wishes go to all of you.
I would like to remember those individuals who for whatever reasons may not have the opportunity to enjoy Christmas in the way the majority of us do.
My thoughts are with those people who are ill and hope that better health comes to you soon. And to those who have lost the security of employment. My wish is that our resilience and drive will create additional opportunities for positive change for all our citizens.
In my mayoral election speech in 2008, I expressed a desire to work hard to inspire and bring hope to our citizens. Reflecting this Christmas, as Mayor, I have been privileged to see firsthand the contribution of organizations, individuals and volunteers who work hard throughout the year to assist others. This has had the effect of filling me with great hope and pride when I have witnessed the contribution they have made. I have been inspired to continue our important work for the town; my sincere thanks go out to each and every one of them on behalf of all Stratford residents.
At this Christmas time may I express the desire that peace and hope will be more than just aspirations at this time of year but that it will become a way of thinking for our people and town in the years to come”.
May I take this opportunity to wish you all the very best for a Merry Christmas and a healthy and peaceful New Year. Thank you.
John Gentless
Mayor