Officials Thankful for Community – How About You?

A day off from work and school and a table full of food. 

That’s the symbol of Thanksgiving for many, and we’re often too busy to stop and truly give thanks on the holiday.

Long Valley Patch reached out to elected officials on the Washington Township Committee, Washington Township Board of Education and West Morris Regional Board of Education to see what those residents are thankful for this season.

In the aftermath of the most devastating storm in Washington Township history, many responses centered around how great it is to be part of such a wonderful community.

“I am thankful for all of the residents of our town who helped in any way they could when their friends and neighbors were in need,” said Committeeman Tracy Tobin. “You make our town a good place to live.”

Tobin’s fellow committeeman Dave Kennedy echoed those sentiments, saying:

“I’m thankful that In times of crisis, we as a community can rally and help those in need.”

Furthering the conversation of impact from Hurricane Sandy, Washington Township School board member Michelle Munley pointed to the little things we sometimes take for granted.

“This year, I am particularly grateful for the pleasures of clean running water, heat and electricity,” Munley said. “Many people throughout the world do not have access to these basic necessities and the experience of the past several weeks has taught us all that these are not to be taken for granted.”

As residents know, there’s a sense of pride associated with living in Long Valley for many reasons, and our officials weren’t shy about saying so.

“I’m thankful to live in a great community that we can raise our children in, with great schools and without the fear of rampant crime and violent influence,” Kennedy said.

On top of the community's resources comes its wonderful people, according to one resident.

“We are especially appreciative of the Long Valley community as a whole,” said Washington Township School board member Chance Healy. “No matter what the call (a child with cancer, a hurricane, etc. – the list is endless), we are amazed and overwhelmed by the endless outpouring of support. We are grateful to be part of such a charitable and compassionate community.”

Committeeman Jim LiaBraaten also said it's the residents that make the community what it is.

"I am thankful for having the good fortune to be able to live in a community with the highest family and individual values, kept strong by community interest and involvement," LiaBraaten said. "I am thankful for having all the good friends and neighbors who make living in Washington Township a real pleasure and a blessing."

And at Long Valley Patch, we couldn’t agree more.

It’s been an amazing year for editor Jason Koestenblatt and his family, as he becomes more entrenched in the community he grew up in.

This a strong, vibrant community that, like so many others, has its kinks. But when push comes to shove, there is no group of residents we’d rather be part of and connected to than those who call Long Valley home.

For that we are grateful and thankful. From Long Valley Patch to you and yours, Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy the holiday!

What are you thankful for on this holiday? Tell us in the comments section below.