As we go through March, the history of women will be in focus. The Town of Colonial Beach is no exception. The Town declared as much during its monthly work session last week with a proclamation read into the record by Mayor Robin Schick.

“Women of every race, class, and background have strengthened Colonial Beach through leadership in local government, education, public safety, business, civic organizations, faith communities, and volunteer service,” the Mayor read, continuing onward to state that “women have played a vital role in preserving the history, culture, and waterfront heritage of Colonial Beach while shaping its future growth and prosperity.

“They serve as elected officials, municipal employees, entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, first responders, military service members, caregivers, and community advocates who contribute daily to the safety, economic vitality, and quality of life of our town.

“The Town Council of Colonial Beach recognizes the resilience, leadership, and dedication of the women who have helped build our community and continue to inspire future generations.

“Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the Town Council of the Town of Colonial Beach, Virginia, does hereby proclaim March 2026 as Women’s History Month in the Town of Colonial Beach, and encourages all residents to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in our community throughout the month.”

This was not the only proclamation, however, as it was also Procurement Month. Mayor Schick actually had a bit of explanation behind this one. According to Schick, the Town can thank its current manager, Natasha Tucker, for this one, which focuses on the procurement and logistics that make running a place possible.

“She introduced it as part of her background and professional experience. I think it’s a wonderful addition,” Mayor Schick commented before reading the proclamation itself.

“Public procurement professionals play a vital role in ensuring that the Town of Colonial Beach conducts business in a fair, transparent, ethical, and fiscally responsible manner,” the Mayor read. “They are responsible for securing goods, services, and construction necessary to support essential municipal operations, including public safety, public works, utilities, parks and recreation, and administrative services.

“Through sound procurement practices, the Town safeguards taxpayer dollars, promotes competition, supports local and small businesses, and maintains compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

“The dedication, expertise, and integrity of procurement professionals contribute significantly to the efficient delivery of services and the overall success of local government operations.

“March is nationally recognized as Procurement Month, providing an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the important contributions of procurement professionals in public service.

“Now, therefore, be it proclaimed that the Town Council of Colonial Beach hereby proclaims March 2026 as Procurement Month in the Town, and encourages all residents to recognize the valuable contributions of these procurement professionals who work diligently to serve our community.”

With both proclamations read, Mayor Schick had one final comment to make.

“A lot of these procurement professionals are women too. In fact, Procurement Month seems to go hand-in-hand here in Colonial Beach.”

Mayor Schick may very well have a point there, given how many women serve in the Town staff positions.