REMEMBRANCE, REFLECTION, AND REVITALIZATION

This week provides opportunity for remembrance, reflection, and revitalization. On Monday, November 25, 2024, we took time to remember those who lost their lives in service to Coos Bay 22 years ago: Fire Captain Randy Carpenter and Volunteer Firefighters Chuck Hanners and Jeff Common. These men gave their time and dedication, ultimately sacrificing their lives, to ensure the safety of this community; their passing will be with this community, and the larger fire community across the State, for generations still to come.

This time of remembrance opens into reflection for what we all have to be thankful for, timely, as we all gather to celebrate and enjoy Thanksgiving with our family and friends. Throughout the community, you can see ways in which we take care of each other, through all of the organizations stepping forward with opportunities to share in a Thanksgiving meal. Whether you are accessing a Thanksgiving meal from one of these organizations or helping to support these organizations through volunteering or providing financial support or donations of goods, this connects the community together in ways that are long lasting. Be sure to take time to appreciate those in your circle and those they connect with over the coming holiday months.

And finally, this week brings a time for each of us to revitalize our community through shopping local. The Shop Small initiative, which is driven across the nation in most communities, helps us each do our part to ensure the vibrancy and fiscal health of our hometown. On Saturday, our local businesses are ready to welcome you with open doors and unique gifts for everyone on your list. Let's support our community and make this holiday season extra special! These connections are what make Coos Bay great and supporting our small businesses is what ensures a thriving tomorrow.

I wish you all a happy Thanksgiving gathering, full of family and friends, food and laughter, creating lasting memories.

-Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay

News Source : https://www.facebook.com/672903211665184/posts/892868766335293