Ashly Granby
Whether you stumbled upon Jefferson serendipitously or proudly call it your birthplace, there’s a unanimous agreement that our town is a special enclave nestled along the tranquil bayou. In an age dominated by fast-paced living and electronic communication, Jefferson stands as an oasis where community, connection, and a more deliberate pace of life are not only cherished but ingrained in our daily existence.
Here, we have the privilege to decelerate, engage with one another, and find comfort in the safety of low-crime neighborhoods. Additionally, the potential health benefits of residing in a close-knit community like Jefferson cannot be overstated.
In the late 1950’s a physician stumbled upon a tiny town in eastern Pennsylvania comparable in size and spirit to Jefferson. This community, called Roseto, of fewer than 2000 people held the key to robust health among its men. In contrast to the prevailing trend of heart disease as the primary cause of death in men over 55, the men of this town thrived. Their overall mortality rate was significantly below the national average. After months of rigorous studies, the physician determined the key lay not in their diet or exercise regimen but in the simple fact that they lived long, dying of old age, thanks to the resilient community they had fostered. (Gladwell, 2008).
Jefferson has the potential to transcend being merely a town; like Roseto, it can evolve into a sanctuary—a place where we can find solace, rejuvenate, and enjoy good health nurtured by a closely-knit community. A place responsible for extending our life here on earth.
In the midst of the election season, it’s vital we cling to this truth, and choose to be a community in the truest sense of the word. No candidate should be seen as an adversary; each merits applause for their courage to run and the commitment to invest time and energy in serving our great town. Regardless of which candidate crosses the finish line, it is our responsibility as a united community to rally behind them, offering unwavering support and understanding. In doing so, we cultivate an environment that is genuinely best for each and every one of us.
Jefferson is not merely a dot on the map; it stands as a testament to the power of community, well-being, and the potential for a safe haven we can collectively call our own.