December 2020

2020 in Ellicottville is one we’ll never forget.

COVID-19 has left a scar on our country and right here at home. Ellicottville, Great Valley, Little Valley, Salamanca and the surrounding communities have suffered through a pandemic unlike anything seen in our lifetime. It’s carried an enormous ripple effect–costing us our health, businesses, jobs and mental well being.

Watching our stores temporarily close, our restaurants try to adapt and community events disappear–simply heartbreaking.

We are a social people and having our favorite activities restricted is excruciating. While this is a necessary move for our nation, it comes with a reminder. Kindness and peace matters. So do masks. It is a simple act that comes with the ultimate show of compassion. I respect your health and that of the ones you love. My neighbor, I want to see you again (mask-less) when we clear this virus filled storm.

As we stroll the streets of Ellicottville this holiday season, take a moment to remember how important a kind word or a gesture can mean after such an awful year. Sometimes the most important things… aren’t things.

Looking into the 2021 cloudy crystal ball, we can only imagine where next year will take us.

One thing we CAN control is our actions. We wish everyone peace and offer kindness to all as this year winds down.