As with many people, the week before Christmas is particularly busy and can test the spirit of even the most ardent Christmas lover. But the flip side is that there is much good in the world and much to be grateful for, so this compilation is designed to cover both, sending out some roses to those who deserve it, but adding in a few raspberries as well.
Roses: To the kind citizens, and especially Randy and Wendy Piccini, for supporting the re-settlement of Syrian refugee families in our community. Many people, groups and churches are working to sponsor these families fleeing from war and are opening their wallets to help. The Piccini’s took money they were going to spend on an anniversary trip and turned it into a fundraising opportunity with a dinner that generated $5,600.
Raspberry: To the City of Salmon Arm’s policy surrounding passes at the pool. Why should there be a one-year expiry on swim or aquafit passes? While I know the policy is clearly stated when you purchase, it seems unfair. If you pay for a 10-visit pass to the pool, you should get your 10-visits, regardless if it takes you longer than one year to use them up. As we all know, time has a way of evaporating on us all, but that doesn’t mean your money should too. Stores are not allowed to sell gift certificates with expiry dates any longer and I think it should be the same for our taxpayer-supported facility too.
Roses: To all those people who are working long, hard and extra hours to make the holidays bright for others. Postal workers delivering packages, store clerks helping find the perfect gift, hairdressers who work you in so you can look fine for holiday pictures –there are any number of people going the extra mile up to the holidays. And a special shout out to those scheduled to work during the festivities... nurses, police officers, tow truck drivers or snow plow operators. There are many who keep things going while the rest of us relax.
Raspberry: To those who are rude or complain about RCMP road checks for impaired drivers. They are doing their job helping to keep the roads safe to drive this holiday season. No one deserves to lose a loved one to a drunk driver.
Roses: To the city councillors who opted to allow dogs on the foreshore trail for a one-year trial period, with a ban on dogs during the nesting months. It’s a sensible compromise. As is the directive to actually monitor the use during that time and come back with some data on the impacts of dogs on the trail, rather then rely on anecdotal statements from those on both sides of the issue.
Raspberry: This is in advance to anyone who thinks the leash requirement doesn’t apply to their dog. If a ban is eventually implemented it will be your fault and you will be taking the privileged away from every other dog walker who uses the area responsibly.
And finally, roses: To all those who generously donated to help someone else’s Christmas be a little bit brighter. You have made a positive difference in someone’s life.