Editorials - May 3, 2024

For the majority of us, the homeless crisis that has now trickled out of the cities and into our rural communities is possibly an annoyance, or something to tsk-tsk at, as we come across people living on the street. After all, we know the county provides a shelter and various churches and social agencies have resources. It’s hard for us to understand the myriad of reasons that could result in someone living rough - everything from sudden job loss to addiction and mental health issues. Even harder to fathom is that someone might choose to stay out in the cold.

 

A recent story on CBC News highlighted St. Thomas’ success in reducing its homeless numbers by more than 30 per cent in less than seven months. The creation of supportive housing, similar to the project on the horizon in Goderich, deserves much of the credit, but making some creative changes at The INN, a 40-bed emergency shelter, was instrumental in shifting people into more permanent housing.

 

The first step to getting people off the streets is usually the shelter, but often people who need it the most are reluctant to use it. The INN, recognizing the differences between clients, reconfigured its interior to add flex space for seniors, members of the LGBTQ community and those with mobility issues. It also added more warming spaces for the winter season. The key to welcoming so many struggling people is recognizing their differences and finding ways to make them comfortable. – DS

Almost 100,000 Canadians (surely more than 100,000 by the time you’re reading this) have signed a petition asking that the federal government formally investigate Loblaw Companies Ltd. for what the petition calls “profiteering” and “greedflation” in general terms, but specifically during the COVID-19 pandemic when profits soared.

 

The company made money hand over fist as food prices skyrocketed with people like Galen Weston Jr. insisting that his companies kept costs as affordable as they could, despite Canadians struggling to make ends meet. Now, as the petition calls for a closer look, thousands of people are fighting back in the best way they know how: not opening their wallets. Indeed, many are planning to boycott Loblaw-owned stores for the month of May to show Weston they mean business.

 

People are mad as hell and they’re not going to take it anymore. Having said that, in remote communities or larger, centralized city centres, Loblaw-owned companies can often be the only option. So, making their point with their money (or by withholding it) may be tougher than some think, but, the will is there to hurt Loblaw where it would matter most for a money-hungry enterprise: its bottom line.

 

Weston and his company may stand behind only Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the subject of much finger pointing in regards to the issue of affordability of life in Canada, and, with so few alternatives, the company clearly knows that bark is unlikely to equal bite.

 

And while we’re boycotting consistently underperforming entities that make money hand over fist to no avail, should we be turning in our Toronto Maple Leafs’ jerseys for the month of May as well? – SL 

Runner Julie-Anne Staehli, a native of Lucknow, has a list of accomplishments that speaks volumes about her determination and talent. As a Canadian Olympian, bronze medalist at the 2023 PanAm Games, co-founder of the Re-Run Shoe Project and a revered racer for Team New Balance, she has inspired countless individuals.

 

As the anticipation for the Paris Games grows, so does the excitement surrounding Staehli’s quest for greatness. The journey to this moment has been marked by highs and lows, each step a testament to Staehli’s unwavering resolve and her ability to overcome challenges with grace and grit. However, amidst the anticipation, news of an injury has tempered some enthusiasm surrounding Staehli’s upcoming prospects. Yet, the distance runner faces this setback with a resilient spirit, undimmed by the hurdles before her.

 

It’s disappointing to see such a talented athlete face challenges so close to a major event. Regardless of what happens next, in the eyes of her community, Staehli is already a champion. Her ability to overcome obstacles, coupled with her positive attitude makes her an inspiration to all. And while the road ahead may be difficult, there’s no doubt that Staehli’s journey will continue to inspire and uplift those who admire her. She has already proven herself a champion, not just in the realm of sports, but within her community.

 

Staehli’s hometown of Lucknow sports a mural of Canadian hockey legend Paul Henderson. Now is a chance to further celebrate local athletic icons by commissioning a mural of Staehli. On the day of her scheduled race in the Paris Olympics, regardless of her participation, there should be an official declaration of “Julie-Anne Staehli Day”. It would be a fitting tribute and provide inspiration for future generations, building upon her already-cemented legacy here at home. – SBS