Things are much changed over the past year. I got the text that I had a snow day and decided to go get coffee and breakfast for my daughter. As I drove through New London, much went through my mind.

As I was stopped by a New London public works employee collecting trash and, on another street, a public works employee plowing snow, I reminisced to when I chaired the Public Works Department committee as a city councilor. Far too many times the department was the first to be cut. During this pandemic, these employees did not have the opportunity to work remotely. These hard-working individuals have families. The city is lucky to have such dedicated workers. They are on the frontline to keep our city clean, streets clear, and parks ready for our youth to play.

As I ended my snowy Friday ride, the song "2020" by Mitch Rossell played on the radio. The opening line was, "Hey God we need some help down here." It was only fitting. The song completely sums up the last year. But I continue to have a positive outlook for our city with the many hard-working people it employs.

Finally, I would suggest anyone who reads this letter to listen to the song “2020”.

Jason Catala

New London