October 9, 2023, Letter to the Editor
Letter to the Editor
A heartfelt thank you!
As we reflect on our 125th anniversary celebration on October 1st, it was more than we could have ever imagined and it was thanks to the generosity of truly every segment of the Village - the police chief and his officers flipping burgers to Village Hall employees staffing table and DPW employees, EVAC staff and firefighters sharing their skills and expertise.
In an unprecedented show of community support, we estimated 1000 villagers and friends came by to enjoy the festivities. None of the wonderful activities and treats would have been possible without the outpouring of generosity of our Village merchants. They donated everything from chicken skewers to ice cream bars, coffee, cider, desserts, cheese and crackers, you name it. Our merchants are truly the most loyal and giving and their kindness was truly unprecedented and humbling. In addition, almost every one of our nonprofit and religious organizations came sharing information, goodies and examples of their mission and we know the Village would be so much less a warm and caring home without these organizations.
The five of us were truly awestruck watching residents connect with each other, old friendships renewed, former Trustees and Village board volunteers returning with fond memories and great stories.
Our library staff, our Village Historian and our Historical Conservancy lent an important historical content to the celebration which served to only enrich the fun and the camaraderie. We extend a special thank you to the residents who experienced some catastrophic flooding just two days before the celebration and when we polled them as to whether to continue the commemoration, they gave nothing but resounding support and gracious encouragement.
The entire event was such an unprecedented bonding experience that so many residents have mentioned that we should do it every fall!
The entire event would not have happened without the leadership of festival chair, Lisa Rao and her committee including Trustees Helen Knapp and Mary Taylor Behrens, Historical Conservancy members, Marilynn Hill, Suzanne Pratt-Davis, Erin Saluti and Village volunteers Maureen Stapleton, Cara Martin-Rulli, Jane Scotti and Leslie Corcoran. What an incredible way to move forward this fall in a spirit of community, unity, family and camaraderie. I just wish we could have bottled it, as the feelings were palpable. We send this with humble amazement and enduring gratitude for the outpouring of generosity from every corner of our community. It really does take a Village!