When I initially wrote this article, I realized I had been writing about 2020 instead of ’21. But like so many, these last two years feel like one long one. We seem to have a 12- to 18-month time lapse. We plant memories around important dates and events. Like Christmas (that we missed), birthdays (not celebrated) and vacations (we didn’t take). All that to ask, what happened to 2021?
Seven million people died on planet earth – a devastating fact for more communities and countries than others. That number is just a mind- and heart-numbing fact that keeps growing. Waves seem shorter with hope growing and a realization that this virus will not disappear, but will be managed like others.
Remote working is still in order as so many are refusing to change out of their pajamas. Learning remotely remains an experiment in so many communities. Remote shopping has become a borderline obsession. However, while making purchases easier, I am reading this morning in the Post that Denver “ranked the worst in the nation when it comes to package theft.” Though I love the idea I heard of people using Amazon boxes as kitty litter boxes, taping them up when full and leaving them on their porch to be picked up by thieves.
Our city managed important projects and made significant changes to our zoning laws, exploring possibilities with the 100-acre Lutheran campus. We have also adopted a short-term rental ordinance that will allow citizens to rent out all or part of their homes. The city also developed a program to help the homeless population.
My person of the year is my son, Dylan. He was the proverbial switch on that spotlight, exposing so much I had ignored unconsciously, disagreed with or simply didn’t know. The close living was almost like close combat. The shouting of, “You don’t know what you’re talking about!” was countered by, “Wait until you start paying taxes!” But we move through life and when confronted with a worldwide pandemic, we retreat to what we know. My dad always said during tough economic times, “We need a good war.” I wonder in 30 years what will Dylan remember about what I said. This year especially was more like a “do over” for us, in terms of having a second chance to build our relationship before he goes off to a world that I’m not so sure I like, but am willing to explore – pushing myself out of the farm, out of my suits, but I’m keeping my scotch.
It’s a privilege to bring you the news every month. We at the Gazette appreciate the opportunity. Thank you to every reader, advertiser, our writers, city staff and elected officials. After all, we are all neighbors. Happy holidays to you and yours. As always, thanks for reading.
Contact Neighborhood Gazette Publisher Guy Nahmiach at wrgazette@gmail.com or 303-999-5789.
