Happy Better New Year to all our friends and neighbors.
In listing the many December holidays, I forgot to mention Festivus. I went to a friend’s house a few years ago where it was celebrated. We watched the Seinfeld episode that introduced the holiday celebrated Dec. 23. It could be said it is an example of fake news that has become real.
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By the time this is printed, 2020 will have entered history. What will be the cited events of the year?
Some downside thoughts: the shortage of toilet paper (what a phenomenon), the empty bean shelves, the scarcity of hand sanitizer, the scramble for face masks, the shortage of flour, the hardship facing our local businesses, food insecurity. The most enduring memory will be the loss of so many loved ones and no opportunity to console them.
On the upside, we had the most wonderful lengthy spring. The outdoors became a refuge and there was a greater appreciation of locally grown.
Al fresco dining took on a new meaning. Residents supported the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement District request for funds to help our businesses.
Our health providers and first responded continued their dedicated professional care. Saying thank you doesn’t seem enough.
Good people became better.
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I have two proposals for next year. Those who get the vaccine should be given stickers saying, “I was vaccinated.” Residents who went to the polls receive “I voted” stickers.
Next, we should have some kind of outdoor memorial for all those who died this past year. How many obituaries said there would be no public wake or funeral? There was no opportunity to express grief. Posters with the person’s name and perhaps a guest book to sign so families would know their loved one is remembered.
An option could be for faith communities to hold services outdoors for their members.
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2020 is certainly a year for the books. Keep well and safe.
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Send items for the Lehrer Report to Phyllehrer@gmail.com.
