Now that the long-awaited thaw is finally here, the feeling of optimism among individuals and community groups around the region is hard to miss. A sentiment common to pretty much every event we Equity reporters get to cover is the sense of relief that community events can be held again without restrictions. It’s getting difficult to find a new way of writing the phrase “starting up again after being canceled due to covid.” Based on The Equity’s Community Calendar alone, things are clearly booming, from Rapides-des-Joachims to Breckenridge and up to Danford Lake.

The fact that people getting out again to celebrate with their community is wonderful. Humans are social creatures, and the ability to get out and again interact with each other is vital for both our mental and physical well-being.

It’s not to say that people still taking health precautions aren’t warranted to do so, but the atmosphere is much more relaxed and that’s a good thing. Many community event organizers are telling us that turnout is even surpassing pre-covid levels. Perhaps we’ve all been taking the possibility to get together with our neighbours and the broader community for granted. Now that we’ve seen what life’s like without that opportunity, maybe we’re cherishing those moments a little more.

Ultimately, spring is all about rebirth. Just as the trees are getting ready to regrow their leaves, many people feel energized to restart their projects, whatever they may be. Whether it’s farmers planting crops, athletes training outside, musicians planning outdoor concerts, or builders planning construction, spring gives people a chance to do what winter weather would otherwise prevent them from doing.

And this is true of individual and collective efforts across the Pontiac. Now that the weather is on our side and restrictions are lifted, it’s up to us to take full advantage of it. With the 150-year anniversaries of Bryson, Portage-du-Fort and Shawville, plus all the regular annual activities, there is no shortage of reasons to get out there. There’s something for everybody, from live music to sports, trivia, bingo, card games, dances, fairs, markets, and way more. Whether as a participant, spectator, or volunteer, let’s all get out and do something local. If you want an idea of what’s going on, check out the Community Calendar. Enjoy the good times while they are here because inevitably, another winter will be just around the corner.

Brett Thoms