The year 2008 seems to have sped by without lingering for even a minute, maybe that is because we have wonderful residents and visitors who are active in so many areas that we keep each other busy all year long. There are many civic, social and church groups performing charitable acts and deeds in the area that help our fellow neighbors.

One such example of community spirit and working together was vividly expressed during the recent pair of hurricanes. The warm-up storm – Gustav which threatened and mobilized many parts of the survival program in August perhaps was a benefit in that it prepared us for the BIG ONE – IKE – which blew in on the heels of Gustav in September. The orderly evacuation from mobile homes and trailers saw our Jr/Sr High School building used for the first time and local churches helped by opening their doors to residents and members alike. The volunteer fire department was able to send all of its personnel into the field to remove trees, assist people who had health and dangerous situations because of the out pouring of local volunteers who helped by coking and feeding, distributing ice and water and pre-packaged meals to those in need. Our local Brookshire immediately donated all perishables foods to keep them from spoiling and help feed those who had no electric to cook with.

SHECO – Sam Houston Electric Coop – what can we say about their teams brought in from all over the USA, they estimated 6-8 weeks for recovery – most of out area was back up in 5 days. Thankfully the weather cooperated and it was unseasonably cool during the aftermath of the storm, making it easier on those without A/C. Our fire department had many calls for oxygen bottles to replace those systems that normally operate on electricity with personal sized tanks.

When it was over we had a list of almost 100 people who left their homes and came to the VFD station to help neighbors, everyone was grateful; for this out pouring of citizen support.

There are several builders putting up new homes and the opening of the restaurant at Lakeside , the first campers arriving was a blessing. North Shore added several cabins to their facility this year. It seems that more people want to live out by the lake to take advantage of our growing Onalaska Independent School District . The Jr/Sr high school continues to be a wonderful attraction for young families with children. The athletic programs are growing daily.

Onalaska is preparing for the 8th annual Beautiful Baby Pageant conducted by our Friends of the Library on March 7th followed next weekend by the 3rd Annual Leprechaun 5K Walk and this year we also will have the 5K Fun Run, this years event will be held at the high school on February 14th starting at 10 a.m. Also the 26th annual Easter Parade and 10,000 Egg Hunt will take place April 4th. The parade starts at 10 a.m. and ends at the Bonner Park on Old Trinity Road where the egg hunt starts at 11 a.m.

It is my privilege to work with many of these program and the fine employees and volunteers of the City, they make the task of being Mayor not only rewarding but exciting to be a part of the continued steady growth in our community. Please feel free to visit us at City Council meetings the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. Drop by City Hall if you have any questions, suggestions, or just to say “Hello”. I am always available by phone at 646-4330.

Lew