Giving back to the community, and our country, is at the forefront of September 28 issue of the Peak.
Whether it is a war hero receiving an honour posthumously, candidates retiring from or running for office, or volunteers coming together to create a new outdoor space, the long history of Powell River residents giving back is on full display.
Captain John MacGregor lived much of his life here. Awards related to his actions in World War I are highlighted on page eight, as is the humble nature family members recall about Canada’s most decorated war hero.
MacGregor will receive another honour tomorrow, adding to the legacy of a man whose name is familiar to many residents, even without turning onto MacGregor Avenue in Cranberry or passing by the MacGregor Building on Duncan Street. Politicians have been making decisions that affect the community for decades in that building, including former mayor and current qathet Regional District Area C director Colin Palmer, who is stepping aside from politics after a lengthy career of civic service (page four).
Palmer’s colleagues in the political ring, and those aspiring to join them (mayor candidates David Formosa, Glenn Holstine and Ron Woznow on page three and school board trustee candidates on page five), have their own reasons for seeking public office. Each can expect that, if successful, about 50 per cent of the people will disagree with their decisions 100 per cent of the time.
Who in their right mind would put themselves through that? Committed and passionate people, that’s who.
Residents have every right to disagree with elected officials, but the name-calling and wrath that comes from individuals hiding online under anonymous names, or talking behind their backs, is a disappointing aspect of the political world.
Those who carry on in public service in the face of criticism deserve respect for their commitment to the community, whether residents agree with their decisions or not. New candidates have likely thought about the negatives that come along with civic service. To continue on shows how much they care about their community, and giving back.
Grand gestures and amazing feats are not necessary; giving back can be as simple as helping a neighbour or donating time to a non-profit group.
The new garden created by Rotarians and volunteers at the ARC Community Event Centre, (section B) is a prime example. The group effort involving hundreds of hours of personal time by people simply wanting to give back will have a lasting effect on those who use it.
All these stories tell of the value of service: service to country, service to governance, service to community.
