narrowsburg news

Stand up and be counted: Your opinions matter

By Greg Triggs
Posted 4/14/20

I’ve learned or relearned quite a bit during the COVID-19 isolation: A slower pace. The joy and ease of staying close to home. The feeling of accomplishment after doing yardwork. The welcomed …

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narrowsburg news

Stand up and be counted: Your opinions matter

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I’ve learned or relearned quite a bit during the COVID-19 isolation: A slower pace. The joy and ease of staying close to home. The feeling of accomplishment after doing yardwork. The welcomed rationalization of a break from yardwork because a neighbor stopped by to visit—from six feet away, of course.

The other thing I’ve learned, or perhaps already knew once I stopped to anticipate the circumstances under which we’re currently living, is that the needs of the town continue. Shout outs to the staff at Pete’s Market, Narrowsburg Proper, Narrowsburg Fine Wine & Spirits, both our gas stations, our utilities, our restaurants, the Post Office, the financial institutions, Narrowsburg Liquor, Peter’s Pharmacy and everyone else who has kept to business as (un)usual, the best they can. It has required bravery, a sense of community, trust and innovative thinking.

The Barryville Farmer’s Market has figured out an amazing process during which you can pre-order your goods for curbside pick-up on Saturday morning. The transaction requires no significant person-to-person contact and supports local vendors. Perhaps best of all, it also supports local charities. Currently, the market is fundraising for the Eldred Backpack Program, which gets much-needed supplies to deserving families.

Of course, not all of us are able to contribute these much-needed services or donate talents such as sewing face masks. What’s something that can be done by those needing to stay at home to supervise their children’s lessons or avoid exposure because of pre-existing conditions? How can we contribute?

It’s easy. Jump online or mail in completed questionnaires. Let your opinions and needs be known. It’s not selfish. It’s vital to the future of our community.

First up, the census. You are legally obligated to participate; doing so early significantly lowers the chances a visitor will stop by while you’re isolating. It also affects funding for key public services and our representation in government, both of which are great reasons for part-time residents who are considering moving their residency to Narrowsburg or the surrounding area to participate.

Also critical is your participation in the Town of Tusten Comprehensive Plan Survey, the link for which can be found on the Narrowsburgians Unite Facebook page or by visiting www.bit.ly/TRRtustensurvey.

This survey asks residents of all ages for their opinions and priorities regarding the future of our town. It is critical for everyone to participate. There have been rumors that only 18 percent of the residents have sent in their responses. Surely, we are better than that. People share their thoughts on what is right and wrong with Tusten all the time, but complaints over a cup of coffee don’t produce change or affect planning. Filling out this survey does that and takes less than 10 minutes. Please respond as soon as possible.

Netflix and yardwork can wait for 10 minutes.

Best to all.

stand and be, counted, census, covid19, barryville's farmers market

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