It’s been three months since we’ve come into a new world of NOT being social. The League Board has not met apart from some emails. I don’t think that is likely to change and, as such, we have decided to meet virtually at least for the next little while. By the time this has been published, we’ve likely met.

Much of our focus and efforts traditionally have been spent on community events and programs like the Summer Sports program, Movie Night in the Park, and the Spring Fiesta – which now looks like it might be a Fall Fiesta, if at all. That’s all changed, and until we have a better sense of where things are at, and guidelines from AHS, it’s hard to know. We do know that the City of Edmonton cancelled all sports field bookings at the beginning of the lockdown period in March. That sadly meant that our Summer Sports Program went out the window, as did the Movie Night in the Park. We were not alone in that. Heart of the City was also a casualty (at least in the traditional sense – it’s an online event this year).

While the playgrounds are set to be open later this week (at the time of writing), and access to the fields is open to whomever, it seems unfortunate that the programs we loved to host have been shelved. The same went for the Green Shack Program in Giovanni Caboto Park. But here’s what we can do. We have a bunch of soccer balls. If you and your friends or family want to play in the park and kick a ball around – email me and I’ll get you a ball for free. While we can’t organize any of those events, you are welcome to participate yourselves and with your friends and family. So have at it.

While the programs and events are a part of what we support, we also play an active role in the safety, enhancement, and continued development in making McCauley a great community for all. We work actively with Safer McCauley and Revitalization on various initiatives that have impact on the community, like participating and supporting the Litter Squads and tackling the issue of problem properties. A lot of this goes on outside of the mainstream and public eye, but I wanted to let you know that we have been active and engaged always. The well-being of our community is our primary focus and part of everything we do.

If there are issues you need support on, or aren’t getting anywhere when dealing with the City, please let us know. We have access to your Ward 6 Councillor Scott McKeen, City Council as a whole, and various departments and agencies. We are committed to making a difference and helping build capacity in McCauley. If you need help, just ask – we’re here for you.

Be well, stay healthy, and wash your hands.

Greg is the President of the McCauley Community League. He can be reached at league@mccauleycl.com.