My thanks to all readers as I prepare to open a new chapter of my life

The third chapter of Ecclesiastes begins by saying, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven.” For well over a year now I have been writing about the things I think are important to the citizens of Nassau County, and for me it’s now time for a new season.

Since August of last year I have used this column to lay out my thoughts on such issues as affordable housing and property taxes. I have written about leadership and the need for all of us to participate in the visioning process. I even went out on a limb declaring my support for the war efforts in Iraq, and recognizing the many Nassau County sons and daughters who are helping in that effort. I must admit that particular column sparked more response than any other one I wrote. That issue touched a particular nerve with many of you.

The topics I chose to write about were what I heard people talking about in the grocery store, in the restaurant and at church. With no shortage of issues to write about, I hope perhaps one or two columns touched on something that was important to you and made you think a little bit more about the vital role you play as a citizen.

In the time I have been writing this column, I have gotten the opportunity to meet many of you face to face. You have been kind enough to seek me out and tell me what you think, and for that I am eternally grateful. It is through your insights that I have gained a greater knowledge about what is really important to you. Whether you agreed with what I said, or took the other side of the argument, please know I appreciate you taking the time to let me know what was on your mind.

There are many challenges facing the citizens of Nassau County, and a long road remains ahead of all of us, to be sure. Every day we find there are good people willing to serve in leadership roles and do something good, but we can always use more help. The challenges we will face in the future will require us to find even more good people willing to step up to the plate and put their ideas in front of the public.

This will be my last column for My Nassau Sun, but it certainly does not mark the end of my involvement in the issues that are important to the citizens of Nassau County. As this new chapter in my life unfolds, I hope to meet as many of you as I can and hear your stories. From now on I’m not only just saying, I’m doing!