Greetings Everybody,

  • The winds of change are in the air for Sue and me as our commission president/mayoral term concludes on June 30th. I am very grateful for Sue’s help and support over the years. Not every day was “peaches and cream”! There were times when I brought the job home and shouldn’t have—sorry Sue.  There were many good days as well and the overall experience was gratifying. Remember “Every end is the result of a new beginning” Thank you.
  • I have debts of gratitude owed to so many.  As most of you know, for tasks to be accomplished, “it takes a village.” Support from the city staff, city commissioners, Valley City citizens, the North Dakota League of Cities, and Missouri River Energy Services—to name a few—was critical for any success we may have achieved. Thank you.
  • One of the administrative successes for our city, county, VCPS, and VCSU was “Leadership Coffee”. VCSU President Tisa organized this monthly meeting with the Barnes County Commission Chairman, the VCPS Superintendent, and the VC Commission President/Mayor. Meetings consisted of discussing challenges and ways we could partner to solve them. Thank you all.
  • Citizens of Valley City, please know that you are served by a team of employees who excel at their jobs and take pride in their work. A primary reason for this is that administration actively boosts morale through team-building activities, educational training, and, of course, occasional potluck meals and games. I am proud to have been associated with this Valley City team. Thank you.
  • It is fitting that I give a shoutout to all of the commissioners with whom I have been honored to serve during my tenure. Much time and effort are necessary to be an effective commissioner. Commissioners have to arrange time away from their families and jobs to serve our community.  An example would be the time required in preparing for meetings as it isn’t unusual to have 175 pages of material to review for a commission meeting.  Thank you all.
  • A special thank you to a very good commissioner who wasn’t re-elected this time. Jeff Erickson has devotedly served the citizens of Valley City for eight years and will be sorely missed. Thank you Jeff.
  • “News & Notes” will be taking a break, but will return July 20th. Thank you for your support and kindness.
  • Thank you to all who provided material and to Sue for proofing this column.
  • “In a gentle way, you can shake the world.”  ~ Mahatma Gandhi

        Blessings, Prayers, Respect and Gratitude,

Dave

Dave Carlsrud