This will be my last blog entry of the year and I am in a reflective mood. The year has had its high and low points in council but has never been dull. That old curse comes to mind, "may you live in interesting times". As a council, we certainly do!
Palmerston North is a wonderful city in which to live and has just so much going for it, yet there is an outspoken underbelly of negative people here who do nothing more than knock this city and every bit of progress that is achieved. I would love to see them put as much energy into being constructive as they do into criticism.
On the other hand, we have so many people who work quietly, positively, and largely unrecognised for the benefit of our community. These people far outnumber the others yet, as always, it is the squeaky wheel which gets noticed.
The year has had many highlights. I have attended many functions and been privileged to spend time with many individuals and organisations which add a great deal to our city. I have been personally enriched by this and have learned so much more about the community in which I live.
One annual event which I always look forward to is the presenting of awards to school traffic patrols. It is a real privilege to be part of these school prize-givings. I will take this opportunity to thank one in particular - Terrace End School. To the Principal and staff, thank you for inviting me back each year to present these awards. Terrace End Primary School has a very small roll which, while raising concerns about its continued survival as a school, makes it a very personal and friendly environment. The prize-giving is always great fun and I recommend that anyone who lives nearby should pop along to see some very talented kids providing great entertainment. I have a particular affinity with the school traffic patrol. Ruahine Street is a very busy road and these kids do a fantastic job in getting the children safely across it. I was on the school patrol when I was at Terrace End School many moons ago and know just how unpleasant it can be to stand out in the wind and rain patrolling that crossing.
The school traffic patrols in this city do a wonderful job and are yet another example of the volunteers in our community who are largely unrecognised. Without them, would we have to go the way of Britain and employ adult "lollypop" people? At what cost?
Next time you see a child manning a school crossing, give them a wave. They deserve it.
So, as the year winds down I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the last year, everyone who has taken time to chat with me, bring me their concerns and opinions, and all the community groups, schools, businesses and organisations who have shared their time with me.
The New Year will bring challenges and opportunities - lets hope it's a good one for us all.
I wish you and yours a very safe and happy holiday season.
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