Our next issue was set to drop on April 1, but since so many of our distribution points have temporarily closed due to COVID-19 concerns, the Community Edition will be switching to online only for the foreseeable future. We promise we will be back in print when it is safe to do so.
During these uncertain times, we’ve decided to shift the focus on stories of community and those locally who have extended a helping hand.
We went searching for the helpers.
And what we found were people and businesses all over our community trying to make a difference － people lifting each other up and solving problems for our front line workers and people in need.
Over the coming weeks, we will be posting these stories to show just how much is happening out there.
We are also asking you to tell us your stories from isolation as Waterloo Region (and the whole world) battles COVID-19. Tell us your stories during this unprecedented time of isolation. They may be full of love, full of fear, bittersweet or silly, just keep them at 100 words or less. We will be sharing these stories with you over the next few weeks, on our site and on social media.
Submit yours here.
We are sad to have to postpone Steel Rails 2020 － our annual mystery art party that turned 10 last June － in efforts to keep everyone safe and healthy. Although disappointed, we are so excited for the 11th Steel Rails, whenever (and wherever?) it may happen. We’ll be ready for the opportunity to bring the Region together in celebration to party when the timing is right.
For now, we remain yours, the Community Edition, just digitally-based. We hope you feel connected to our community through our stories, recognize some familiar faces and feel that the world is just a little less distant. We’re learning how we can come together as neighbours, businesses, communities, countries and an entire planet. It’s not easy, it’s not instant, but we’re doing it in ways we’ve never done it before. We’re all in this together － but like separately and from at least 2 metres away.
Melissa Embury
Melissa is the former editor in chief of the Community Edition. You may have seen her around town asking people what excites them locally. When not writing, she's usually obsessively listening to music while hanging with her grumpy cat Hansel. A mental health advocate, you'll find her meditating or playing outdoors — climbing rocks and trees, hiking local trails, freediving and surfing in the ocean. "There’s something so healing about water. Water, trees, sunshine and fresh air are what we all need." Follow on IG or Twitter @melissaembury