I miss the good old days. You know what I mean: back when life was simpler, safer, kinder, and free from masks and sanitizer. What is truly amazing is that the good old days were just 6 months ago. As I reflect on that reality, it has a chilling effect on my psyche. How can our world change so very much in such a short period of time? Luckily, such reflection usually brings me back to reality. Has MY world really changed that much? I find that I have let my life be too influenced by what is going on in other areas. Of course, as Mayor, it is incumbent on me to stay informed and up to date on what is transpiring throughout the country. But what real effect does that have in my life as well as yours?

We are a great community, but we are not a perfect community. We can all be better neighbors, better drivers, better parents, better friends, and better citizens. We can, and by the most part do, respect others and listen to others’ opinions without the rhetoric that we see playing out on the national stage. We can be proud of that fact, but make no mistake, we must be ever vigilant to keep that civility alive. In the current “cancel culture,” where everything and everyone seems to be fair game for elimination, it is ever important to remember that every voice matters. Your opinion is no less important than my opinion or your neighbor’s opinion. And yet, somehow, people are rejecting that basic concept and, too often, they are doing so in a violent or destructive manner. Don’t be silent. Don’t be afraid. Do be tolerant. Do be respectful.

That brings me full circle: back to my reality and back to my reflection on life here in Pleasant View. With the exception of increased washing of my hands, eating home more, and needing to occasionally don a face mask, my life has not changed that much. I sometimes wish I could block the outside noise and just enjoy life here in this great community. But vigilance is key, and perhaps we can learn from other’s mistakes and missteps.

I continue to be amazed at your patriotism. I have noticed that flags are being flown on holidays. I drove around the city on Flag Day and noticed a lot of flags being flown. It gives me such a sense of pride. It reminds me of why we must be vigilant. Pleasant View has the greatest citizens in the country; I believe this with all my heart. Thank you so much. I cannot adequately express my pride for my city and for all the great people in this community.

Lastly, as a reminder from our police, please be careful. Make sure your cars and your garages are locked up at night. Do your part; don’t become a victim. The bad guys know that there are only so many police officers on the streets at any given time, so any little thing we can do to help keep ourselves and our property safe will help.

Once again, thanks for caring, thanks for all you do, and thanks for being vigilant neighbors. I am committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure that we remain the best place to not only grow up, but the best place to grow old.

Mayor Leonard Call