From The Mayor's Desk

Sioux Lookout Mayor Doug Lawrance

Christmas Greetings

On behalf of Council and the Municipality it is my privilege to extend best wishes for a happy holiday season to everyone in Sioux Lookout.  This is a special time of year in our part of the world when the words peace, comfort, and joy are said with meaning and warmth. It is the special season of generosity, giving, and gratitude.
In Sioux Lookout there is a year-round spirit of generosity and giving.  It is evident when we have so many people giving their time as volunteers in both formal groups and informally in individual acts.  Christmas is a good time to recognize the generosity of volunteers in our community who share their time in so many different ways: youth sports, seniors activities, service clubs, youth groups, community committees, meal services and food banks, community events and festivals, fundraising organizations and events, litter pick-up and environmental programs, reconciliation work and events, walks and gatherings, cultural celebrations, and so much more and let’s not forget the everyday kindness of both neighbours and strangers.
There is a growing multi-culturalism in Sioux Lookout. While everybody may not celebrate Christmas, those different cultures bring celebrations at different times of year.  We can all enjoy learning from each other and sharing the joy of our own and other cultures. The underlying themes may be different, but all will probably revolve around warmth, food, and family. 
Let us also remember that life, with its’ full share of tragedies as well as joys, goes on through the holiday season. Some families will have suffered the loss of a family member this year.  Some will be living with chronic health conditions.  And some will be struggling with inadequate financial resources.  Some will have to work through the Christmas season. As we celebrate, let’s remember those that might find this a difficult time of year.
Overall, when we look around the world, I think we have much to be grateful for in Sioux Lookout. We live in a peaceful land, and we are surrounded by a beautiful natural environment. We have generally been free of large disasters. While some may bah-humbug about cold weather and snow, we are fortunate to have four seasons, none of which reach the extremes found in other parts of the world. And, through all seasons, we live in a caring community.
In this holiday season, which in our part of the world usually brings snow and ice, please be careful if you are traveling or out enjoying our natural environment.  I hope you can each find some comfort in the holiday season, and that you are able to share joy with others and experience the warmth of friends and family.  On behalf of Council and the Municipality - Merry Christmas to all.