The end of 2016 is quickly approaching, and it has been a trying year for many of us. As the snow starts to fall and the temperatures drop even further, please take care of yourselves and your elderly neighbors. Be especially careful driving this month, as the foul weather might have a damaging impact on the roads, and children will be on Christmas vacation from school starting in late December.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving last month, and please keep in mind that the season for giving and giving thanks continues into December. If you or someone you know has free time this month, please consider volunteering at places like the Northside Food Pantry or the Salvation Army. A few hours of your day spent helping others can make a world of difference to those in need.

Finally, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and blessings to those of us who celebrate other holidays during this season. I am extremely grateful for the diversity in the Northside, and in the face of change and challenge, I am grateful to all of my constituents for welcoming people from diverse backgrounds, religions, and traditions into their homes and hearts. As I said before, please look out for one another this season, and continue to give thanks for all of your blessings. I wish everyone a happy New Year, and I look forward to celebrating 2017 with all of you.

Darlene M. Harris

Councilwoman, District 1