There has been a lot of talk about recovery this past week, with relaxing of some of the restrictions that were put in place, even though we know the current restrictions will last a while longer. The Alberta Government released their framework to reopen the province and the Prime Minister has been working on shared principles for the country to restart the economy gradually and carefully. We are not out of the woods yet though – cabin fever is setting in, traditional spring chores are delayed or banned and we know how hard it is to keep up with the protocols to stop community spread of the virus. We all miss the real hugs, the social traditions of family visits, birthday parties, and get togethers with friends, but we know, too, that what we have all been doing over the past 7 weeks is working.

For now, the best thing we can do is to continue to be diligent about social distancing, hand washing, and staying home except for essential outings. We have put in so much work over the past few weeks, we need to keep that momentum going to contain the spread of this virus. It is so important to continue to take care of ourselves, our families, and our communities by staying the course; by following all of the measures that have become altogether too familiar. This will carry us through to recovery.

Once again, thank you to all of you who continue to do the right thing for the common good of our whole community. A difficult situation has been made much easier by the patience, the kindness, and caring that is part of our community year-round. It is a tangible thing that brings warmed hearts, smiles, and much needed comfort knowing that we are all in this together. And because of this we will emerge from this challenging time as a closer and more connected community.

Stay well and stay safe everyone.

Mayor Ed Weistra

May 8, 2020