‘Thanks for Westbrook’
01.01.25
I thank my God upon every remembrance of you. (Philippians 1:3)
This being the first column of 2025, I want to take this time to reflect on our community and give thanks for being such a nice place to live. Neither of us grew up in small towns. Debby is from Menomonee Falls, WI, which is part of greater Milwaukee. I grew up in Grand Blanc, MI, which is part of greater Flint. We did experience small town life for a brief time when we served as an assistant in Wild Rose, WI, but otherwise our ministries have been in larger communities.
The small town has many advantages. We appreciate the community spirit of those who serve us as EMTs and in the fire department. What a blessing it is to have a hospital, clinic and pharmacy. Thanks to all who serve in these areas.
I commend our superintendent and the school staff for helping to produce students whom I have found to be generally polite and hard-working. The 4H, FFA, music, sports and other programs are useful in building life-long character.
When our grocery store burned down several years ago, it surely helped most all of us to appreciate our local store. Thanks to the Maynard’s staff for keeping the lights on and for friendly greetings upon arrival; and also for our local meat market.
When one’s car is having trouble, there places to have the work done. We also have plumbers, electricians, and many others who can meet our needs.
The city offices are available and friendly. Commendations go to our mayor and all who serve on the city council and in our city offices. This includes our power and street workers. Thank you for all you do.
We haven’t had much need for a lawyer or an accountant since living here, but it is nice to know that we have folks in our community that can serve us when the need arises.
It is also a blessing to have a gas station in town, which hasn’t always been the case, and is not true for some of our neighboring towns. It is certainly convenient.
Having a nursing home and an assisted living facility are blessings. Thank you to the staffs of both. We don’t have far to visit our church folk when the time comes for them to move to either one.
For those who hunt, fish, camp or hike, opportunities abound in our area. We have many active civic organizations who do much to enhance our community.
And what a nice senior and community center we enjoy! These are used for multiple purposes, especially our community fund-raising meals.
And though electronic print is the mode of the age, the Sentinel-Tribune continues to serve a valued role.
No doubt, there are many things I haven’t mentioned, but I mustn’t forget our golf course. I have met many of you through the vehicle of Rolling Hills. My object in playing is to get some fresh air, good exercise, camaraderie and competition with my fellow golfers.
As we look around the world and see so many places that are difficult and troubled, thank you Westbrook for being a pleasant place to live and raise a family.
As always, if we at Immanuel Baptist Church can be of any help to you, please don’t hesitate to call upon us. We pray for you a blessed 2025.