As we turn the page to another year, for many people, this is often a time of reflection.
It’s a time to think back to the year that has just flown by and to think about what you would like to do in the coming year and where you would like to see yourself. It’s a time for some people to make New Year’s resolutions, for other people to vow not to make New Year’s resolutions. Some people make lists. I have a bit of a wish list for our community as well. What are some of the things I’d like to see in 2013?
• A revitalized Travellers Hotel
It’s a beautiful heritage building right in the heart of downtown, and it has so much potential for someone with the money, passion and energy to turn this hotel built in 1913 into a place that would welcome residents and visitors.
• More events that bring people downtown
I loved events like Old Tyme Christmas, the Tuesday night market, Arts on the Avenue, the Show and Shine and so many others that brought people onto First Avenue. It’s so fun to wander up and down the street and pop in and out of the shops when there are so many people — of all ages — out and about.
• Tourism numbers continue to rise
This fall, we heard how marine tourism increased significantly this year, particularly with the opening of the Ladysmith Maritime Society’s new Welcome Centre, and how tourism numbers were up by double digits in both Ladysmith and Chemainus. This is exciting news, and I hope it continues.
• A space for Project Reel Life
The students who worked so hard to earn grant money for Project Reel Life have spent the past year trying to find a space that fits all their needs for a youth-run movie theatre in town, and it would be really exciting if they could find one in 2013 and turn this into a reality.
— Lindsay Chung
