Can you believe that we are less than two weeks away from Christmas? This is a time for us to share the joy with family and friends. At the same time, we must remember that many folks in Tarrant County are struggling this year to afford the necessities and services we may take for granted. As you consider year-end giving, please remember that our area agencies and organizations are working so hard to help those in need.
At this time of year, we also think of the people we are most thankful for, and I ask you to help me congratulate my friend and predecessor, Glen Whitley, who has served 26 years in Tarrant County government—the past 16 years as Tarrant County Judge. Glen has benefited our community not only locally but also on the national stage as Chairman of the National Association of Counties. He has served with passion and honor as he followed in the footsteps of his mentor, Tom Vandergriff.
The flu and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) impact young children and seniors. As we spend the next several weeks with friends and family, please remember there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu and other viruses. Please wash your hands regularly, stay at home if sick, and consider a flu vaccination, especially if you are vulnerable to getting sick. You can view more information from Tarrant County Public Health.
I am excited that we are in the process of putting the finishing touches on our 13th Annual Tarrant Transportation Summit, which will take place on Friday, February 17, 2023, at the Hurst Conference Center. This year’s theme is Automate, Accelerate, Elevate & Innovate: The Center of Global Mobility and will include presentations on automation within the U.S. Supply Chain; mobility projects throughout North Texas; how North Texas Aviation, Aerospace, and UAS industries have transformed the way the world thinks about air travel; and much more. Sponsorships are still available, and individual registration will be open soon. Please visit www.TarrantTransportationSummit.com for more information.
Please join us this Friday, December 16, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. for our special Christmas Coffee with the Commissioner in the Community Room at the Northeast Courthouse in Hurst. Visit and network with others in our community while enjoying some Christmas spirit.
Also, Tarrant County offices will be closed Friday, December 23, and Monday, December 26, in observance of the Christmas holiday. Offices will also be closed on Monday, January 2, in observance of New Year’s Day. I wish you and your family a blessed Christmas season and a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!
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