Statement from the Mayor - February 15

Friends and fellow residents,

With today being Family Day - I hope everyone is taking the time to reflect, relax and enjoy a day off. This Family Day is like no other. For close to a year, most of us have been spending a lot of time with family. Parents have been teaching their kids at home; while dinner parties, celebrations, card games, visits and playdates have been on hold since Christmas - it sometimes feels like every day has been one form of Family Day or another.
But if I have learned anything over the past year, it is that we can't take family for granted. Whether it is talking with my parents, checking in with my kids or video-chatting with my grandkids in-place of their usual visits to our house - I do feel that even with the need to stay at home for safety's sake - I have never been closer with my family.

It is with that sentiment, that I also want to pass along my sincerest condolences to those who have lost family members this year. Just this past week COVID claimed lives from HSN and Pioneer Manor. My thoughts and prayers are with their families. I would ask that all of us take a moment to think about everyone who is working hard on our front lines this long weekend to keep our community safe.

Lastly, as we move to Orange in the province's COVID framework, I do ask that we all do our best to remain ever-vigilant. I am relieved that our small businesses and restaurants that have been impacted since December are finally able to open their doors again. But it will be up to all of us - customers and retailers to ensure we approach this re-opening safely and by the rules. As a community, we are back in control of our state of restrictions. An increase in cases could see us take a step back - let's all work together to make sure that doesn't happen again.

Lastly, it has been a cold week and it looks like a very cold February. Let's keep in mind those living on the streets and if you can - donate to help those less fortunate find a warm meal and shelter from the elements during these harsh winter months.

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Media contact:
Melissa Zanette
Office of the Mayor
City of Greater Sudbury
Phone: 705-674-4455 ext. 2521
E-mail: melissa.zanette@greatersudbury.ca