Waltham: Helen Perry

Last year at this time in Waltham, and indeed much of west Pontiac, we were dealing with the most destructive flood in living memory. The Ottawa River actually peaked and seemed to be receding, then in May it surged with a vengeance. Areas of Waltham had to be evacuated, some residents had to be rescued by boat, and many homes were flooded and in spite of a valiant attempt by volunteers to sand bag every home in the flood’s path, the sand bags finally failed to hold back the power of the river. So many of our residents suffered financial loss, and emotional stress that lingers to this day. Many Waltham residents are still struggling to repair and raise their homes, some were told that their home had to be demolished. Fortunately this year, it appears that the Ottawa River is much lower and major flooding in May seems unlikely.
Now we are dealing with a different enemy, covid-19. This threat is posing a danger to the entire human population. Will we be looking back at the struggles with this virus a year from now and saying to ourselves, I am happy that it is under control, or will we be still looking for a vaccine to keep it under control. We do not know the future, but our own local history tells us that we will eventually overcome our problems and move on. We may even tend to forget our past difficulties and focus on the next one. Hope springs eternal and humans adapt.
I hope that everyone is managing to enjoy the beautiful spring weather that we are having. It is wonderful to get outside work in our yards, planning our gardens and go for a walk at a safe physical distance. If anything, this self-isolation is teaching me patience and perseverance.
Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with our fellow Canadians in Nova Scotia following the tragic events that took the lives of so many innocent people. It is at moments like this, that we want to reach out with love, caring and support to those who are morning the loss of loved ones.
Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with Allan Gaudette and family, in the recent passing of his dearly loved sister Diane Célestine Venasse (nee Gaudette) of Pembroke. She was the beloved wife of the late Ron Venasse.
Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with Michael Sullivan and family, of Chapeau, in the recent passing of his beloved wife Lisa Anne (nee Larivière) Sullivan.
Birthday wishes are extended to Dan Temple, (Jodi’s Dad), of Wakefield, who celebrated a birthday on April 24.
Birthday wishes and lots of love are wished to our dear Michael, who is celebrating his birthday on May 2. We wish you blessing of health, happiness, love, peace and joy in the coming year. Hopefully, we will soon be able to be together and celebrate your birthday.