Published in the Canstar Metro and Headliner December 4, 2020
Charleswood and Headingley are two unique and dynamic neighbourhoods. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to get to know many residents and am honoured to represent all of you in the Manitoba Legislature.
COVID-19 has been a tremendous challenge for everybody. It has touched every part of our lives and contributed to heightened anxiety. Regardless of how COVID-19 has affected you, I encourage everyone to reach out to others. We must be physically distant but that does not mean socially distant.
This pandemic has gone on for many months now and the reality is that we know we still have a long way to go before life can return to normal. That’s a difficult reality to accept and it weighs on us all. Times like these make me especially grateful for all the positive things that are happening in our communities — the displays of community, the great resources, and the selfless gestures. I’d like to highlight some of those.
• Seeing community members in both Charleswood and Headingley post about their home-made backyard rinks on social media has been a joy. Skating is a great way to stay fit, get outdoors and enjoy the winter weather. Remember to maintain a distance from those outside of your household. What a great show of community.
• The Headingley Municipal Library is a great community resource. Due to the public health restrictions, visitors are not able to go in to the library to browse books, but that’s no problem. The library has an online presence and e-books are a great way to keep up with your reading. The Charleswood Public Library also has an online presence with a great selection of books and all you have to do is download the app. I encourage all community members to check out these easy to use resources.
• Oak Park High School’s philanthropy committee recently collected cash donations and new pajamas for Willow Place. I am always so impressed by the young community minded advocates that I am so fortunate to meet in our community. This act of kindness is a wonderful uplifting display of selflessness in our community. Thank you for all that you do.
These are just a few snapshots of the positive things happening all around us. Everywhere I look in the constituency of Roblin, I see so much good. This strong community with our friendly neighbours, great resources, and wonderful groups make Headingley and Charleswood a wonderful place to call home.