As 2018 closes and 2019 opens, we all find ourselves in a deeply divided state and country; divided in many ways over many different issues. Yet, despite all these differences, we all have important things in common. All we Americans are blessed to be living in a county founded on the principles of freedom, giving us the many freedoms that we all still enjoy today.

Our state delegation to the U.S. Congress is truly bipartisan. We have a Senator from each party, and our members of the House of Representatives likewise represent both parties. Our statewide elected officers (including the State Corporation Commission), State Senators and State Representatives are similarly from both parties. Our Town officials, although elected in a non-partisan election, also represent multiple parties.

My biggest wish and hope for the New Year is that all elected officials can work together to do what is right and best for the country, the state, the county and the town, rather than what might be best for their party or their own re-election.

We have a new Congress, new State Legislature and relatively new Town Council, so it is a great time to get things right and continue to improve this great country, making it a better place for all of us to live and to do business. I encourage everyone to write at least one letter to a member of Congress, state Legislature or Town Council saying what you think is being done right or what could be improved.

Our freedoms have been fought for and hard-won, and that fight continues. So, I also encourage everyone to thank the countless personnel who are in uniform or who have worn one, by supporting your local Veterans Service Organizations – the VFW, American Legion, AmVets and Marine Corps League.