As we approach summer’s first pandemic-clouded holiday, we’re reminded of how different the year will be: canceled concerts, closed pools, no festivals or parades. We’re missing things that fill not only our calendars but also our spirits.
As our world slowly opens up, group events are going to be among the last things to resume. Plenty of stuff is happening, it’s just that we’re not invited.
Parks are full. Sidewalks have more walkers (and dogs) than we realized lived in our neighborhoods. We’re tiptoeing back into the water. Some will find it too cold, others, too warm, and for some, it’ll feel just right.
Over the past few months, an astonishing array of events has moved online. Please go to our website northeastohiothrive.com to join an online group, take a virtual tour, attend a class, or find another activity that best meets your needs.
Summer kicks off with Memorial Day on May 25. Communities won’t have parades this year but you can put up a flag and mark the occasion with the dignity the day deserves. The same goes for Flag Day on June 14 and the Fourth of July.
You can pursue your patriotism by visiting neopat.org, the website for The Northeast Ohio Foundation for Patriotism. The non-profit organization raises money to support local military families while promoting patriotism.
Several Northeast Ohio cities, including Cleveland Heights, will conduct video tributes to veterans. You can see their tribute at 1 p.m., May 25 at universityheights.com, the city’s Facebook page and on its YouTube channel.
Another way to salute veterans is to spend a few minutes watching “Inside These Hallowed Grounds,” a video on the Arlington National Cemetery YouTube page.
Let us know if you or a group you belong to has virtual events they’d like to promote. We’ll post them to our website.
