I am writing this message the day after North Ogden Mayor Brent Taylor’s body returned back to Utah. It has been with a heavy heart and a very profound sadness that I have been reflecting upon the state of our world. This tragic event and deep loss has reminded me of the great contrast of good and evil and the battle we must all face every day. On behalf of the citizens of Pleasant View, I wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones and to our sister community of North Ogden as they have suffered the loss of a man that exemplified service. We have a tremendous respect for him as a family man, a leader, and we honor him for his love and service to his community and our Great Country.

As we approach this holiday season, let us remember that we are all in this together. That we are in a battle of good vs. evil and that bad people walk among us. But, let us have hope as there are heroes that also walk among us. I would hope that we could all step up our game and be a hero to someone that needs some help. There is someone out there that is in need of a helping hand; perhaps help with Christmas for their family, or maybe help with a holiday meal. Maybe it’s as simple as a visit and the gift of your time. Maybe it’s caring for a family member or friend that needs the reassurance that they are not alone or forgotten. We each have the ability to bring happiness and joy to someone in need. Let’s be their hero, not only this holiday season but throughout the year.

As usual, I feel like the old saying that “I’m preaching to the choir”. I have personally witnessed so many acts of kindness and generosity from our citizens. We have such amazing people in our community. Thanks for all you do and will do.

Thanks for caring, thanks for sharing, and thanks for being good neighbors. I am committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure that Pleasant View remains the best place to not only grow up, but the best place to grow old.