I hope all had a safe and happy holiday. Peg and I got to spend it with our grandkids and each other and had a wonderful time(I am not sure they feel the same way….). As we move into the new year we hope for a less stressful time and an easing of the tensions that we all feel.
We are looking for some feedback from our residents and Plaza users. Anyone that has been in the gym is aware of the retractable bleachers that exist on the north and south walls. While wonderful for bleacher seating, we have not used them since we moved here in 2014. We have had a section or two out from time to time but only on the south side. These become a place for balls, birdies and garbage to accumulate. We are looking to remove the north side bleachers to get rid of their catch-all nature, opening this area for use and are wondering if there is any interest in them out in the community. Could we let them go for donations towards new equipment or sell or bid them? Let us know what your ideas are on the disposal of these items. We will keep some boards for repair/maintenance of the south side bleachers.
Now that the winter tax bills are out and restrictions are still in place, just remember that all bills can be paid over the internet or by using the outside dropbox, which has been moved out by the flagpole and can be accessed from your vehicle, and all questions, permits and documents can be obtained and submitted the same way. Thank you.
If one thing this past year has shown us it is that we still value our freedoms and we do not like being told what to do. However, in times of crisis we sometimes have to bend a little to get a little. It is never only this-or-that, right-or-wrong, good-or-bad but it is the in-between which is where we live, it is the compromise that usually occurs to find a comfortable place for us to exist. We may never fully get what we want but we do usually get what we can live with and be happy. Isn’t that what it really about, living happy, that doesn’t mean at others expense or us compromising our integrity. Before we take action shouldn’t we ask what we expect out of this action or is this just frustration we are feeling being directed at the most convenient outlet or person. At times it feels as if our civility is at risk. And is this the risk that we want or is it a byproduct of our ongoing extreme situation. Either reason we need to get control on our emotions and responses, this is not how we respond to a crisis.
In this new year we are going to be faced with some very important decisions. We need to think long and hard before we make some of these choices. Their impact could change the way we live on a fundamental basis. I am not talking about who pays for college or how much my taxes are, I’m talking about basic services and how they continue to get provided. This is an individual decision for all to make. The only advice I would give anyone is ask someone you trust and who you feel is knowledgeable on the issues. That does not mean the news talking heads that you see on TV or the internet. DO NOT listen to the media about this issue. It is too important to leave this crucial decision to a group of people whose only goal is to keep you watching and ratchet up the hype. They want the controversy because it makes for better ratings and increased viewership. When you car acts up you seek out a professional or at least someone with knowledge, the same is true if your washer or dryer or if your well pump quits working or your furnace craps out, in each of these instances you would call a pro to fix the problem. In the end you must make the decision and live with the consequences, all I ask is that you are informed before making such any crucial choice.
Last but not least, be safe and be smart. Thank you for your tolerance. Make decisions’ today that you can be proud of in the future.
As always if you ever have any questions, comments or concerns regarding our community please contact me. I am in the office Monday – Friday 7:30 – 4:00 at 989-728-2811 or my cell at 989-984-7073 or by email supervisor@plainfieldtwpmi.com.
Fred Lewis – Supervisor Plainfield Township
