Letter from the President – April 2020

“We’ll meet again
Don’t know where, don’t know when
But I know we’ll meet again some sunny day
Keep smiling through
Just like you always do
‘Til the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away

From the song, “We’ll Meet Again”, written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles

At the March 10th General Membership meeting the membership voted to give the AWCC President authority to suspend future meetings in the event of medical emergencies related to the COVID-19 outbreak. I’m sure it’s no surprise to anyone that tonight’s scheduled General Membership meeting is cancelled. The May 12th meeting is tentative and will proceed based on Local, State and CDC guidance.

Also at the March 10th meeting, the Executive Committee was given the authority to conduct the business of the organization during a suspension of meetings. As of April 13th there has been no AWCC business requiring a vote of the Executive Committee.

The cancellation of regular AWCC meetings is a small example of the historically significant time we’re experiencing. I haven’t heard of anyone in Allegheny West who has been hospitalized due to the coronavirus, and for that I’m thankful and hopeful. Some of our neighbors and neighborhood businesses are facing significant financial hardships. Other neighbors are working the frontlines in healthcare. All of us are experiencing disruptions to our normal lives, along with the anxiety and stress that brings.

Amidst the darkness brought about by the pandemic are some uplifting things happening in Allegheny West. Hopefully these will brighten your day and perhaps provide inspiration to add to this list:

  • The AWCC Website team – notably Nick Smerker – quickly implemented changes to our website to add helpful COVID-19 information and links to resources – see the great work at alleghenywest.org/about/coronavirus-resources
  • Neighbors answered the call to place teddy bears in windows for neighborhood children (well, really for all of us) to find on bear-hunting outings.
  • Neighbors are participating in Tuesday evening “Illumination Ovation” with people across the city by stepping outside to honor front-line workers for their amazing efforts by lighting porch lights and applauding.
  • Neighbors are checking in on other neighbors, offering to pick up grocery and pharmacy supplies or just to say hello.
  • Neighbors are getting take-out food and beverages from local businesses, supporting them while normal operations are suspended.
  • Neighbors are sewing and donating face masks.

Finally, I want to remind everyone that AWCC has a “Zoom Room” – with big thanks to Cathy Serventi for setting it up and providing technical support. The AWCC Zoom Room is available for anyone to use, for gatherings large and small. Please take advantage of this to keep in virtual touch with one another. If you have an idea for a Zoom event, send an email to webmaster@alleghenywest.org.

Stay safe everyone!

Ann Gilligan
President, AWCC