Last week, the community lost a true cornerstone – a community leader, lover of the arts, philanthropist, leader and genuinely amazing human being.

Meri Goyette’s contributions to the Gate City will be remembered – and felt – for many, many decades to come. Nashua certainly was fortunate to have such a treasure, such a role model for so many years. Entire lifetimes can pass without encountering one such as Meri.

Goyette’s passing – and recalling all her amazing work and accomplishments – is, though, a cause for reflection – reflection on how very fortunate we are in this amazing community.

While the pandemic has taken a toll on us all, there are many things for us as a community to be thankful for – some of which we forget in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Of course, the arts – and Goyette’s contributions – are a big part of that. One can simply look around the city and see many example of this, not the least of which is the construction going on at the site of the future Nashua Performing Arts Center.

Close by, one also can take in multiple sculptures and murals that liven up the city, along with the amazing artwork on the Jersey-style barriers that line Main Street. Those are but a few examples

And, speaking of downtown, we are fortunate to have groups like Great American Downtown that work so very hard to improve the city and spearhead events that are family friendly and fun.

We are beyond blessed to have a downtown as vibrant as we do. As most readers know, I am not originally from the Gate City – although I am beyond proud to call it my forever home. Most other states I have lived in are much less fortunate when it comes to busy downtowns, let alone the relative economic prosperity we all enjoy.

Most places I have lived have downtowns that are devoid of businesses, culture and even residents. Block after block of vacant, unused and often dilapidated buildings line the streets, with little hope of a true resurgence. Yes, efforts are being made, but progress is extremely slow and oftentimes years in the making.

Nashua definitely is leaps and bounds ahead of many cities and towns across this great country, and even some right here in News Hampshire and neighboring Massachusetts.

Another thing we have going for us is the phenomenal people and organizations who help so many. From our superior nonprofits – like United Way of Greater Nashua, the Front Door Agency, Gateway Community Services and so many more; and service organizations like Rotary, Lions and more – we are lucky beyond measure.

Do we faces challenges? Of course. Does work remain? Absolutely. But with the good-hearted people throughout Greater Nashua and Southern New Hampshire, we can accomplish anything if we work together – which we do on a daily basis.

With trailblazers like Meri Goyette serving as an examples, we can continue to be a shining example of what make this city such a special palce.

Contact Publisher & Editor Matt Burdette at mburdette@nashuatelegraph.com or 603-594-1240.

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