Welcome to the Tribune’s 2011 Year in Review (part 1).
In this issue and Thursday’s issue we are reflecting on some of the highlights, events, and moments that made up 2011 in Williams Lake and area.
And what a year it was!
We were swimming in elections, slogging through the seemingly never-ending HST debate, celebrating the many achievements of local residents and service clubs — and the re-opening of Deni House — and carrying on the many great traditions of this city, such as the World Famous Williams Lake Stampede.
Some issues have remained from previous years, such as the crummy economy, a struggling forest industry, and the ongoing saga of the fight for and against the New Prosperity mine.
The people of this outstanding community have also, yet again, set a great example on how to rise beyond the storm by looking after each other and striving to make a difference.
Their generosity was shown during the Tribune’s ninth annual food and toy drive, as kind souls stopped by to offer all of the support they could so that less-fortunate families could have a merry Christmas.
We hope 2012 will bring economic improvements, as well as other positive changes: less crime, an end to homelessness, a cleaner environment, and exciting events that will put Williams Lake on the map.
But all of that can’t happen without the continued dedication of individuals in this community.
We all have a role to play in creating a healthy, vibrant, peaceful, and prosperous community.
And we all need to focus during hockey season on the Canucks winning the Stanley Cup. We were so close last time!
We hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and that the new year brings you many happy moments.