JUST ARRIVED!

Photos of the new drapes in the opera house that the Meaford Culture Foundation has sponsored. These photos were taken by Derek. The installers were here and – all social distancing was maintained.

THANK YOU FROM THE MEAFORD CULTURE FOUNDATION

The Meaford Culture Foundation would like to thank the Meaford Chamber of
Commerce and the Meaford Rotary Club for continuing with the 2020 Meaford
Community Awards during these difficult times. In these frightening times of
stress and self-isolation, it is important that there are good news stories that
champion the positive things that are still happening in our community.
We are particularly proud to have been awarded the Special Merit Award! Sponsored by the
Municipality of Meaford, this award recognizes exceptional effort within our community by a
volunteer organization or service club. There are so many amazing groups in our community
that are worthy of this recognition and we are humbled to be in their company.
Our volunteer Board of Directors tirelessly donate their time and efforts to ensure that Arts and
Culture are vital components in the social and economic welfare of the Municipality of
Meaford. We would also like to recognize and share this award with our incredible army of
volunteers. Without their herculean efforts, events like MIFF and various Community Outreach
performances would not be possible.

It is a very difficult time for everyone right now but particularly those companies and individuals
whose income relies on arts and culture programming. The impact of the cultural sector is more
evident than ever as all performance spaces, including Meaford Hall, have had to close till
further notice. Restaurants that normally rely on packed houses on event nights have also been
forced to close and are trying to survive on take-out business alone. Local Farmers Markets,
Wineries, Distilleries, etc. that also count on tourists and drop in business are also closed and
relying on online sales to stay afloat. We encourage people to order from these businesses as a
show of support in these trying times.

We have already had to postpone one of our scheduled Community Outreach performances,
and are, like everyone else, watching and waiting to see when things might return to some
semblance of normalcy. We are still meeting online to determine how best to move forward as
it is extremely important that we be prepared to continue our efforts to support arts and
culture programming once this is over. We invite you to explore our website
to learn more about what we do and get updates on our programming.

It is easy to be negative but we encourage everyone to be strong. More than ever, we need to
support one another. Reach out, even if it’s only virtually, to friends, families, neighbors and
loved ones. Use this opportunity to recognize and support those essential services that are
putting themselves on the line so others can self-isolate.

And finally, enjoy the endless varieties of entertainment that are still available as artists around
the world find unique online ways to keep us connected in a wide variety of arts regimens. Yes,
arts and culture are alive and well, and we need to be prepared to embrace our local arts
heroes once this dark veil has lifted. Be strong and safe!

SUMMER THEATRE PLAYING AT MEAFORD HALL

EXIT Lifestyle Realty is conducting an initiative where community members vote for an organization, person or business that gives back to the community and helps strengthen our overall community. Meaford Culture Foundation was proud to receive this honor this week!

Thank you to EXIT Sales Representative, Blane Johnson and Broker, Nicole Gordon, for providing the amazing Amici pizza’s for lunch at the MCF AGM.