We did a lot of name dropping over the last couple of weeks, but it was done with the best of intentions as we wanted to recognize the more than 1,300 individuals, families, businesses and organizations that have financially supported us through their subscriptions and contributions during this COVID-19 pandemic.
The virus has battered all facets of society, so it was heartening that so many heeded our appeal given the number of worthy causes out there. That outpouring of support showed the value you place in getting your Optimist every week and validated the work that we do, which was a nice boost during a difficult time.
I came across many familiar names as I perused the list spread over the front page of the previous two editions, but what struck me most was the breadth of that compilation. There were people from all walks of Delta life and the one thing they have in common is the Optimist, which I believe speaks to the role a newspaper plays in a community.
I recognized many names on the list, including a whole bunch of letter writers, even one regular who is sadly no longer with us. The list included several current and former politicians, both developers and naturalists, those on opposite sides of the port expansion question and others who have taken part in community advocacy, from defeating the radio towers to building the Fred Gingell Park stairs.
There were names affiliated with sports associations, churches, community festivals and a host of local organizations, from fine arts and service clubs to seniors and children, as well as teachers and principals, fishermen and farmers, firefighters and police officers, and the parents of a murder victim. There were authors, heritage and disability advocates, filmmakers as well as several recipients of Delta’s Citizen of the Year.
There were many from the business sector, including those who support us on a regular basis with their advertising, as well as some former Optimist employees, among them a well-respected publisher. Even my mother-in-law was on the list.
It was, to state the obvious, an extensive roll call, and the common denominator, regardless of what part of Delta life someone is involved in, is that they’re all readers and supporters of the Optimist.
And for that we’re exceptionally grateful.
