Written By David Gomez
It is not easy to write the final opinion column of the year—at least, not for me. Each time, the same questions arise: what should I write about, which topics truly matter at this moment? Perhaps the best way to begin, beyond the familiar thematic doubts any journalist or writer faces, is simply by saying thank you—to you, our readers. This newspaper would not be possible without a readership that continues to grow with enthusiasm month after month. Every edition is produced with care, with a genuine desire to keep learning and improving, and with a clear purpose: to inform the Middlesex County community as thoroughly and responsibly as possible.
The team at The Middlesex Banner knows that one of the topics most valued by the Middlesex community is history. The local history of the towns, villages, and communities across this county is old, rich, and deeply compelling. For that reason, I would like to acknowledge and thank the many historical societies and archives that have worked for years—often quietly and tirelessly—to preserve our past and share knowledge about the ancestors of countless local families. Our section, The Archive Alley, has now been running for over a year and continues to feature remarkable articles written by dedicated authors, historians, and guardians of local history from the Middlesex Centre Archives and the Glencoe & District Historical Society. I would also like to welcome and thank John Caverhill, our new columnist, who through his writing will share his experiences and highlight the importance of local history in communities across the county.
I do not want to miss the opportunity to clearly state that this newspaper firmly believes in the necessity of establishing a county-wide archive for Middlesex. There is an urgent need to institutionalize the preservation of documents, photographs, and artefacts that together tell the story of hundreds—if not thousands—of families who have lived on this land for more than two centuries. The Middlesex Banner supports the work of the Committee to Establish a Middlesex County Archives (CEMCA) and its persistent efforts to secure what I consider an essential public good for everyone who lives and works in this county. I commend County Council for initiating the feasibility study toward the creation of a general county archives, and I congratulate CEMCA for its dedication and advocacy in bringing this decision forward. This marks the beginning of a vital and long-overdue project for our community.
There are many more people I would like to thank. This column is also for the columnists and reporters who ensure that journalism continues to flow and that connections through information are built—thank you all. My sincere thanks to Alan Good, Jan Sims, Olena Riznyk, and Jeffrey Reed. I also wish to recognize our designer, Zac Kinsman, and our publisher, Mark Holmes, whose work behind the scenes makes each issue possible.
I would also like to thank the columnists—and future columnists—who are members of the London Writers Society, who over the past two months have begun contributing a monthly column on local literature. Be sure not to miss it in the second edition of each month.
And what would this county be without its municipalities and the people who lead them? I extend my thanks to the mayors, councillors, and staff members of the six municipalities we cover. Thank you for answering questions—mine and those of other reporters—and for engaging in open dialogue. I also encourage readers to pay close attention to the year-end columns written by each mayor, reflecting on what was accomplished in their municipalities this year. Finally, I would like to congratulate Susan Clarke, the newly elected Warden of Middlesex County for 2026 and Mayor of Adelaide Metcalfe. I am confident that her experience and leadership will contribute greatly to the continued development of the county.
Once again, thank you to everyone who reads these lines. If you see this reporter around the community—usually with a camera in hand at local events, asking questions and having conversations—please don’t hesitate to say hello. I am always open to new ideas and suggestions.
Merry Christmas to all, and my very best wishes for the year ahead!
