President’s Remarks:

As many of you know the last month has been an exceedingly grim time for me due to Denise’s passing. I am starting off this month’s President’s article by thanking everyone (residents and staff) in this community. What I have learned over the last month is that Charlestown is more than a community; it is a caring family.

On behalf of the Carrick family, I want to extend my deepest gratitude for the love and support you expressed following the passing of Denise. Your kind words, heartfelt gestures, and unwavering compassion have provided immense comfort during this challenging time.

Throughout her time here, Denise felt truly at home, embraced by the warmth and care that defines this wonderful community. The outpouring of love you have shown in honoring her memory is a beautiful reflection of the connections and friendships she cherished so deeply. That was certainly shown by the many people who attended her funeral mass in the chapel on November 1st.

Thank you for standing by me during this time of loss. Your kindness and unity remind me of the strength we find in one another. I am profoundly grateful to be part of such a caring and supportive community.

Now onto my monthly talk.

Can you believe December is here already? December is a month of contrasts—a time of endings and beginnings; reflection and celebration. It is a season of warmth amid winter’s chill, a time when homes are lit with twinkling lights, and hearts are filled with the spirit of giving.

Charlestown residents demonstrated the spirit of giving by contributing $416,300 to the Staff Appreciation Fund last month. That is almost $100,000 more than last year. The percentage of participation also moved up by a percentage point to 72 percent. This is an historic high for Charlestown, which will make our hourly-employees incredibly happy this holiday season.

The Council has been working with the Administration and residents to ensure that we light up Charlestown again this year. Let us get every resident to put candles in their windows this year.

The holiday season is the perfect time to light up the world around us—both literally and figuratively. Twinkling lights and glowing decorations transform our surroundings into a wonderland of joy and magic, reminding us of the warmth and hope this season brings.

But beyond the physical lights, we can “light up” the season in other meaningful ways. A kind gesture, a heartfelt smile, or a simple act of generosity can brighten someone’s day and fill hearts with the true spirit of the holidays.

Whether it is through the glow of an electric candle, the shimmer of holiday ornaments, or the spark of kindness shared with others, let us embrace the chance to bring light into the world. Together, we can make this season shine brighter for everyone around us.

May your holiday season be filled with love, laughter, and all the light your heart can hold!

May your New Year be filled with many blessings!