The first frosty nights of October are often a reminder that the harvest is in full swing, and the growing time is nearing its end. It is a bountiful time in the Valley, and the changing season is fully evident along the horizon, which is lined with golden stalks of corn standing up against a backdrop of spectacular maples clad in deep red and orange. There is so much to be thankful for this fall.
The election is finally over, and however we feel about the results, we are at least no longer being exposed to campaign gaffs and next-day apologies, vague promises to make life easier in the face of inflation, and fearmongering over immigration, minority community language rights, and other “threats” to Quebec nationalism and identity. We can be thankful that despite the lengthy campaign, another election has been fought and won without violence or intimidation against voters, though there have been enough disturbing flare-ups over these last few weeks to suggest we should not take our peaceful democratic processes for granted.
At a local level, we can be thankful for two new festivals celebrating this area’s distinct cultures and communities. The Farmland Festival highlighted the diverse heritage of this region while also bringing visitors into contact with cultures from around the world, all in a rural setting. The Livestock Breeders Association’s (LBA) Fall Festival was a reminder of the strong agricultural roots that bind our community together.
Finally, we can be thankful that after more than two and a half years living with COVID-19, we have found ways to come together again – whether to vote for our political leaders, to enjoy in-person activities, or to gather with families over this upcoming holiday weekend.
