These days, Steve Butland, well-known former Sault Ste. Marie city councillor, mayor and MP, now retired from public life, may often be seen shopping in the Churchill Plaza area, always ready to stop and chat and share a laugh.
And, today’s news of another COVID-19 case in Algoma notwithstanding, Butland sent the people of the Sault and Algoma a letter Wednesday, through SooToday, thanking them for taking steps to keep the region’s COVID-19 numbers low.
As of Wednesday, there have been over 17,300 COVID tests in our area with only 26 confirmed cases of COVID, 25 of those cases resolved, and no COVID-related deaths.
Butland opined those low numbers are due to the complicity of Saultites and Algoma residents in regard to masking and social distancing.
“One unique aspect of our success were the several hundred women who produced thousands of antiviral masks over a several month period,” Butland wrote.
“These masks have been distributed locally and beyond, free of charge. It has been pointed out to me that it is not uncommon to have individual groups in various communities in Ontario produce masks. I challenge any area to compare to our local situation. Over 175 women who have sewn 15,000 masks to be distributed free of charge. A remarkable achievement by our Days for Girls Face Mask Team led by Gabi Doleske, Linda Mizzi, Holly Wickett and Karen Marrocco. A two day blitz distributed approximately 2,000 masks to grocery shoppers at Pino’s, Rome’s, No Frills and two Food Basics locations.”
Butland wrote the Sault and Algoma region has done well in these pandemic times because:
- People have retained a positive attitude in lineups whether they are five or 25 deep
- We have generally respected social distancing
- There has been an exemplary application of necessary measures and restrictions as determined by local authorities and government
- The seamless cooperation of individuals and agencies that have operated independently, yet the delivery of their services has been most complimentary. These groups; APH, GHC, SAH, police and fire, educational institutions, doctors, local businesses, service clubs, unions, three levels of government and local politicians are to be acknowledged
Moving forward, and despite the loosening of some restrictions, Butland urged Sault and Algoma residents to comply with APH masking regulations which come into effect this Friday.
“Our status is most commendable but we must not be complacent. Restrictions are being reduced but we must continue to be vigilant. Wear a mask please and continue to follow the prescribed guidelines.”
"We have continually recognized and acknowledged all of the front line workers and thank them both privately and publicly on a regular basis."
“A big shout out to our residents of the area. Thank you! Thank you! You did us proud,” Butland wrote.
