As we welcome a new month, in a few short days, there is much to look forward to here in Stratford. Beginning September 2nd, this Tuesday, you can cast your ballot in the Early Voting for the Democratic Primary. Going to the polls is a way to use your voice, to make a choice about what happens locally, and in turn, what happens on the state and national levels within government. Another way to use your voice is to submit a Letter to the Editor, which can be done by simply emailing me at nikkya@stratfordcrier.com. This gives you the opportunity to share your opinions and comments, and is yet another way to build community.
We also welcome into our Stratford Crier community the sharing of your furry family members! Send us photos of your loving pet, and we will post their story and photo in our Fur Real column, a space just for pets. You can submit photos at Fur Real.
In this issue, we introduce to you our newest contributor, Pascale Joachim. She gives us an emotional look into why reading matters, how interconnected we are, and might just encourage you to pick up a new book from our local library. As this month comes to an end, your support of Black Owned Businesses does not have to. August, as we shared a few weeks ago, is a time for us to celebrate and recognize National Black Business Month and further support American businesses.
You have the choice to support locally, Black-owned businesses year round. We have Level Up Gym, owned by Malcolm Wilson. We have the only African American Museum in the state of Connecticut founded by Jeffrey Fletcher. We have restaurants that take us on a journey from Jamaica at the Kingston Kafe to Caribbean Fusion made by the hands of the wife-husband duo at Piklys. Exploring Black owned businesses right here in Stratford allows us to take a journey of our own. Visit our local Black owned bookstore, where you can open your hearts and minds to diverse journeys, and get to know another’s story, and maybe even bump into a neighbor or two.
Happy Labor Day! May you find peace, rest, and reflection as you consider the work you’ve done and the work you intend to do!
