Columnists
It takes a village
It might be cliché, but it has never been more fitting. First, I want to thank the community for its everlasting support. I have been inundated with text messages and emails from readers and contributors asking what they can do to help fill our newspaper pages in these troubling times.
Be assured, we will strive to maintain our regular publishing schedule. I feel that folks need something to look forward to each week. Something to take their mind off the troubles wrapped-up in their day-to-day lives. But events are non-existent, with our reporters unable to do their job. And I only want to delve so deep into the COVID-19 news. To be clear, we will keep readers informed, but are not going to focus on the panic and negatives affecting the world.
So, here’s where you come in. I’m calling on you, our readers, to put pen to paper. Tell me how you’re dealing with this situation. Share a story about how the community is helping you or your business get through this. Let us know how you can be helped. And if you have a story to share but prefer to chat, let me know and I can put a reporter to work. After all, the role of a community newspaper is to engage and serve its readers. There is no more important time than now for us to live up to that role.
Last week, I heard from a Wellington on the Lake resident. She, along with her neighbours are self-isolating, but are showing great spirit in their community by going out of their houses each day at noon, and making a lot of happy noises as they greet their friends and neighbours. They beat their pails and pots or make sounds with many instruments. They are being joyful as they let the world around them know they are well and caring about others. This is a true display of great spirit and togetherness, all from a distance. It’s stories like this that prove this is a special place.
I’ve also spoke with many local business owners. Spike from Midtown Brewing is one of them. There is worry about how this will affect his, and many other businesses. Some restaurants are remaining open for take-out and/or delivery. So, if you’re able, why not support these establishments by ordering in. Or, purchase a gift card to use at a later date. There are small ways we can all make sure we come out of this right side up.
Our foodbanks are also in need. I spoke with Linda Downey, President of the Storehouse Foodbanks, and the problem isn’t money, it’s supplies. They are having trouble finding essential items to keep people fed—pasta, sauces, canned goods. If you have extra stock, please think about helping by reaching out. We can all do our part. Although I know he doesn’t do it for the recognition, Evan Nash should be commended for stepping up, using his store as a drop off location, and arranging pick up of items if need be.
I’d also like to take a moment to commend the dedication of our local leaders. CAO Marcia Wallace and Mayor Ferguson, with the help of Catalina Blumenberg, Mark Kerr and the emergency control group have been keeping the public up-to-date and informed with often daily media releases, Twitter and Facebook posts. I spoke with Catalina, and she is overwhelmed—exhausted even—as this is constantly evolving. But, nevertheless, she is pressing on. It’s safe to say that our municipality’s actions have been top-notch, and an example to others, throughout this global pandemic.
We will get through this. Prince Edward County is a strong community. A community made up of caring individuals. And when I think about it, there is no place I’d rather be dealing with this. When this has passed, I suggest we join together in a street party. A celebration. A time to greet neighbours and friends. To share stories of pain and triumph. I’ll even plan it. And, I’m looking forward to it.
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