If there was ever a year we needed a nice spring, this is certainly it. The warm, sunny days we’ve been enjoying have allowed us to get outside more, providing some respite from the uncertainty and anxiety we’re feeling.
May 22, 2020
If there was ever a year we needed a nice spring, this is certainly it. The warm, sunny days we’ve been enjoying have allowed us to get outside more, providing some respite from the uncertainty and anxiety we’re feeling.
Following the lead of Dr. Bonnie Henry, Coquitlam has been encouraging our community to get out and enjoy our parks and trails, while maintaining a safe distance and doing what’s necessary to protect public health. Getting outside is important for our mental health, as well. That’s still a valid and important message, particularly, as more outdoor spaces and businesses begin to open up and people spend less time at home.
Our 2020 graduates are also taking their celebrations outside this spring, as the ban on large gatherings continues. I’d like to congratulate all Coquitlam graduates for achieving this milestone. I know this isn’t the way you’d planned to celebrate it, but I encourage you to come up with fun ways to mark this occasion, while staying safe and maintaining physical distance.
Here’s one idea: Track down the Grad 2020 photo backdrops the City has installed at local parks, and then share your pictures online, tagging #CoquitlamGrads2020. You’ll find the locations in the Outdoors section at www.coquitlam.ca/spirit.
Although life has changed in a multitude of ways in 2020, we need to continue to celebrate the highlights in our lives, because that’s important. But we have to do it in ways that allow us to stay physically distant, but socially connected. It may take some creativity, and it will likely involve being outdoors – small birthday picnics at the park, for example, or anniversary dinners on your patio or your backyard.
Let’s take full advantage of the opportunities we do have to enjoy life, the people around us and our community
Let’s continue with these themes for this week’s shout-outs.
Thank you to the organizers and vendors of Coquitlam Farmers Market, which has now reopened and is providing us with a safe way to shop and a fun outing each Sunday. I’ve been there and they’re getting it right. It’s baby steps, but they’re getting it right. Learn more at www.makebakegrow.com.
I’d also like to send a shout-out to Kinetic Cycles, a local business that has been working overtime to help people get outside on their bikes. I found how important being on my bike, getting to work or going on local parks and trails, have been. And you can really gain some of those benefits. So we can thank Kinetik Cycles for doing what they can to get people back on their bikes after a long winter.
And finally, kudos to the Gleneagle Secondary students who have now raised more than $3,100 for vulnerable people through their ongoing concerts on Instagram. Support them at www.instagram.com/_viralcause_.
I’ve checked out these concerts and there is some real talent there.
These are all great examples of how our community is coming together to show our CoquitlamSPIRIT during these challenging times. If you hear about something that’s worthy of a shout-out, please share it on social media and make sure to tag #CoquitlamSPIRIT.
As we wind up, I remind you, things are going to open up a little bit – let’s do it right.
Remember, bigger spaces, local places, fewer faces, no embraces, wash off traces, if we stay in Dr. Bonnie’s good graces, we’ll have fewer cases.
Richard Stewart
Mayor
See also Video Message (https://bit.ly/C19-20200522)
Join Coquitlam’s Efforts to #SupportLocal
The City of Coquitlam has joined the Tri-Cities #SupportLocal campaign to assist local businesses, many of which are struggling at this time. Coquitlam also strongly encourages residents to #SupportLocal for their shopping and meals; view business listings at www.wegotthistricities.com and www.visitcoquitlam.ca for a directory of 150+ Coquitlam restaurants offering takeout and delivery.
Supporting Our Community During the Pandemic
The City of Coquitlam is here to help, with these resources:
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/csrp to learn about the City’s Community Support and Recovery Plan, which is providing immediate and long-term support for the non-profit sector, businesses and residents;
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/spirit for a free library of activities for all ages, including fitness, arts and culture, outdoor activities and ways to connect with your community; and
- Visit www.coquitlam.ca/covid19 for updates on City services and initiatives and COVID-19 health resources.