Serving Proudly As The Voice Of Valley County Since 1913

Vote Yes To Build A Strong Community

Dear Editor,

Our current world has been turned upside down and created a deep sense of uncertainty and stress. Our normal routines and patterns of activities are no longer routine, we have developed new protocols such as hand-washing and wearing a mask, and we are careful to limit our social interactions and maintain appropriate social distancing. A year ago, this was not even in our awareness as a potential way we would start to live our lives.

In the times of uncertainty and transition, we often live in two places. We have one foot in the familiar and comfortable and one foot moving forward to embrace our new reality. During this challenging time of facing a pandemic and creating a new pattern of behavior, we are becoming more comfortable with these new routines; however, at the same time, we seek the comfort and familiar aspects of our world that keep us grounded and focused.

Some of the current comforts and familiar routines have focused on food, family, home, and nature. We are seeing an increase in baking and preserving food. More families are gathering to cook and bake together, having family meals, and trying new recipes. We have seen the evidence of this with sold out or limited purchase supplies and empty store shelves.

As Glaswegians, we are closer to our food supply than many. We have the opportunity to pick chokecherries, apples, and plums in our yards. We can grow vegetables in our backyard or patio planters and use these supplies to feed our families, make special treats for neighbors, or can and store food for the winter.

The one thing that is missing from our focus on family, food, and gathering is our natural food supply resources of chicken and eggs. These are a valuable part of our natural food supply and can provide a safe and productive way to go back to our roots. If managed correctly, a limited number of hens in a safe coop could round out our ability to live independently and take care of our families. Fresh eggs would not only supply our families with food and cooking needs but are a welcome way to share our abundance with neighbors.

While the pandemic has created change and upheaval, it has also reground our focus on natural resources, family, and taking care of our needs. A vote yes in November will allow families the right to raise their own hens in a safe way and continue to build a strong community.

Sincerely,

Alyce Tracy

Glasgow, Mont.

 

Reader Comments(0)

 
 
Rendered 03/28/2024 23:22