JULIE LAWLOR
I am writing this article at the end of September, where after some much-needed rain we are looking towards the welcome prospect of a week of sunshine. It is a busy, exhausting, often anxious time for many. A provincial election has been called, COVID numbers are not going down and people are worried about their businesses and their jobs.
In all of this, it feels like gloom often predominates and given what we are all experiencing this is understandable. Each of us has our own way of managing the stress and the uncertainty, and I draw a lot of strength from the continued generosity of our community. This year, instead of a Gala Awards dinner for the Best of the WestShore Awards, we are holding a series of pre-recorded announcements over four nights to do justice to all 44 categories.
Attendance at all of the events is free, but we included an option whereby people could attend by donating to Our Place, the Goldstream Food Bank or Pacific Centre Family Services Association. Many are choosing the donation option, including one member who donated $100 to the Goldstream Food Bank. (If you would like to take part in this year’s events, please go to our Events Calendar.)
I am also really appreciative of the choices people are clearly making to keep others safe. I see it in businesses, where more and more people are wearing masks and are conscious of physical distance. I also see it on sidewalks and in parks, where people take turns moving to one side to create a safe space for another to pass. Such courtesy never fails to improve my day.
Thank you to everyone who continues to follow the advice of our indomitable Dr. Bonnie Henry to “be kind, be calm, and stay safe.”
Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
