Glens Falls Common Council Public Comment Speech for 3/25/2025

If you would allow me, I prepared a 5-minute message with updates from the Crandall Library, the Glens Falls Hospital, and my own thoughts on the tragic death of Michelle Mcfarren. 

First, I would like to take a short moment of silence to pay respects for Michelle and her family, still dealing with the sudden loss. 

After a tragedy, we all have a deeply human need to find someone to blame. We want to know that someone was responsible. Michelle attempted to reach out for help, to the best of her abilities, but it was not enough. She was scared and did not know what to do. 

I was on the path toward tragedy back in September. My undiagnosed anxiety and depression led me to near death experiences, whether on the bridge overlooking the Feeder Canal or tied to a tree in our backyard. The mental pain that I had been carrying inside became too much to bear. Until, with the support of my now-husband and therapist, I voluntarily walked into the Glens Falls Hospital Emergency Room. 

I am happy to report that the hospital saved my life, with a crash course in psychology to learning meditation to curbing unhealthy coping skills. Through these changes and guidance, I have unleashed my boundless creative energy. I became a supporter and framed photographer at LARAC, wrote 25,000 words across 20 essays (some of which is about two locally produced plays at the Wood Theatre), and cultivated a courageousness that had been lost in me for a long time. 

I was thrilled to learn that the Glens Falls Hospital recently updated their ER and Crisis Units. I know they will save many more lives. I only wish Michelle was one of them. The Glens Falls Hospital's Aloha 5K fundraiser is scheduled for May 31st at 9am, starting at the pavilion in Haviland Cove Park, if anyone wants to run or walk on the Feeder Canal Trail (and the new Pruyn's Island Trail) to support the hospital. 

Lastly, for those interested in supporting the valiant efforts of the Crandall Library, their public Board Meeting is tomorrow at 4:30pm in the Community Room. Given the recent executive order that targets Federal grants for libraries, we have to work together as a community to ensure it remains a beacon of hope for the next generation. For those who cannot attend tomorrow’s board meeting, the Friends of Crandall Library will have their Spring Book Sale on May 30th and May 31st also in the Community Room.

Thanks for listening, and I look forward to the warmer months just on the horizon.