People, Special People

2008 is swiftly coming to a close, a year with many highs and lows. The EYE has done a strong job covering local events, staying atop situations such as the Army Base and the elections as well as paying close attention to the vibrant downtown scene, the public schools and Wesleyan.

2009 probably will be a difficult year; tax revenues in the state are dwindling meaning that the city's budget will be heavily impacted. Services will be affected; The Board of Education, the Middletown Commission on the Arts, the Board of Health and The Russell Library will all feel the pinch. Many people have pinned their hopes on the Obama administration to help right the ship of state and his administration will have much to do. One aspect of this economic meltdown and its consequences that has been encouraging is that a good number of people in our city are willing to work together.

2008 was also notable for the loss of 2 very special people. You may not have been aware of Sybil Paton but chances are very good she impacted upon your life in a positive way. She was involved in the creation of Wesleyan Potters and the Middletown Commission of the Arts while working tirelessly for other organizations. One of her long-term relationships was with The Russell Library. She served on the Board of Directors for many years, helped hire the present director Arthur Meyers and boosted the work of the Library Friends Committee. Much of what Sybil Paton did was behind the scenes, the way she liked it; bringing people together was a strong point. Once she started a project, you can be sure it got done. As most of you know, the Library is a focal point of Middletown, a gathering place, a venue for free programs that range from readings to concerts to writers groups and gallery space.

Paula Lawson came to Middletown in the late 1990s to work as the Associate Provost at Wesleyan University. Slowly but steadily, she made herself indispensable to the staff and faculty. With her husband Richard and son Jack, she joined Congregation Adath Israel and within several years began serving on the Board of Directors. In her position as Recording Secretary, Paula Lawson became a member of the Executive Board and started to make a positive impact on the lives and welfare of the congregation. Much of what she did was low-key but all of it was positive. Her death at the age of 49 was a harsh blow to her family and a huge loss to both the Wesleyan and Synagogue community.

Both Sybil Paton and Paula Lawson "got things done" with little regard or need for praise. They set a strong example for their families and for the community in which they lived and worked. The year (and, possibly, years ahead) will be difficult but our main priorities should be continuing to work together, helping each other, listening without rancor or judgment, and making sure our voices are heard.