Odds and Ends

This editorial is comment based on some of the recent news items and happenings from The Pilot coverage area:

° Congratulations to the organizers of the 23rd annual Mussel Bed Soiree in Lewisporte. It seems throughout the weekend that the scheduled events were well attended. Even with the rain, thunder and lightening on Saturday the Concert in the Park was once again a highlight of the Soiree. The entertainment was fabulous and the audience cheered them on, even though they were soaked to the bone. Special recognition goes out as well to the volunteers, Town staff and summer staff who work behind the scenes to make everything go off without a hitch (except for those Mother Nature throws in that no one can control). Look to The Pilot next week for coverage from a variety of Soiree festivities.

° The endearing story of the response coming from Lewisporte and area during 9/11 will once again be highlighted through NBC Sports (see related story on page 1A). As the eighth anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001 approaches, the story of the friendships made and the heartfelt hospitality of residents of this area continue to captivate people. It was a shining moment in the history of Lewisporte and something that everyone should feel proud to have been a part of.

° Around Lewisporte there are a number of fundraising events being held by teams set to participate in the 2009 Relay For Life on Sept. 12. Remember to show your support for this important initiative and along the way, give the people participating in the fundraising a pat on the back because there are truly working to try and make a difference in the fight against cancer. It's not too late to enter a team either.

° Tomorrow, Aug. 13, the details of the plans for what has been known locally as the one-roof health care facility will be discussed between Health and Community Services Minister Paul Oram and the Town of Lewisporte (see related article on page 1A). There have been many ups and downs related to this project over the last number of years. Mr. Oram told The Pilot that the new details of what the project will contain would be a "good news story" for residents and Lewisporte and area. The Pilot will keep you posted of just what the plan will involve.

° The third annual Great Fogo Island Punt Race: To There and Back is highlighted in the Islands section of The Pilot this week. Congratulations to the Shorefast Foundation, the organizers, volunteers and residents of Fogo Island and Change Island and the racers themselves. The grit and determination of everyone involved is a reflection of what has been a way of life for these Islands over the years.

It is amazing to have been able to have the opportunity to have a glimpse of life on these Islands from about six years ago to today. There is that obvious resiliency of the people that we have all heard of. That resiliency to cling to the land they love and the lifestyle they cherish has made them a shining example of just what can be accomplished when you stay true to your roots.