As everyone settles in, if not for the holidays then for a long winter's rest, we have a chance to reflect on the year that was. The snow on the ground encourages us to gather close and share in the warmth of family and fellowship. And while every one of us has had his or her own triumphs and tragedies, the hope is that, with the new year getting close, we will be able to put some struggles behind and find renewed energy to face the struggles that are to come.

This has not been an easy year for the Ellenville-Wawarsing area. 2007 was marked by the closure of Hydro Aluminum and the loss of over 300 jobs and a reminder that America's blue collar factory jobs are finding it harder to resist cheaper costs from overseas. In all, nearly 20 businesses have either closed or relocated during the past year and rumors run rampant that more will come in early 2008.

2007 also saw the results of an election that may or may not prove as a sea change in the largely antagonistic relationship between the village and town governments. The two municipalities have clashed on a range of issues: from moving into the new Ellenville Government Center to economic development to youth services. There seems to be a vein of "us versus them" that is counterproductive to moving forward on any issue that requires cooperation between the two municipalities — cooperation which will become more necessary if the area's economic fortunes do not radically change.

But 2007 also saw the arrival of the Ellenville Playground initiative, the return of a farmer's market and the continuing growth of an arts community within the town. Each of these developments represents a group of people who are volunteering some of their own time either to fix a problem they have seen in the community or enhance the quality of life for all who call Wawarsing home.

As a village, as a town, and as neighbors, it is imperative that we come together in a spirit of cooperation knowing that our individual success and happiness depends greatly on the happiness and success of our neighbors.

When the new year starts, let us hope that we all can resolve to work closer and more effectively at making Wawarsing a better place for everyone to live and put aside old arguments that prevent us from looking at new possibilities.

The Ellenville Journal wishes everyone a happy, healthy and prosperous 2008.

COMMENTS about this article (1)