So difficult to know what to do in a time when just keeping up with the latest news, national and local, is a full-time job. And just a little paralyzing. There are many ways to help, especially here in the Upper Valley, and you may have already compiled your own list. Like you, I am reading newspapers, emails, Facebook and Twitter posts and trying to figure out how to respond. Here are some humble suggestions.
Don’t give up on local businesses. They are pivoting with speed and ingenuity. Restaurants, from Pine in Hanover to Phnom Penh in Lebanon (and many others) are offering takeout options; some are bringing back curbside service or home delivery. Still North Books and Bar and Norwich Bookstore have several options for book-buying. Too numerous to detail here, but info is available on all of your favorite local enterprises through their websites and Facebook pages. Look them up, and try to continue to be a loyal customer. For now, my husband and I are committing to one take-out meal per week. Others are buying gift certificates to local restaurants for use at a later time.
Write a check, if you are able. The Listen Center, The Haven, other area food banks are going to be responding to ever-increasing need. Arts organizations, that operate on thin margins in the best of times, have mostly shuttered. Pick a favorite and give what you can.
Keep Lucky’s Coffee Garage, the heart of Lebanon, in your thoughts. They’ve evolved into a take-out window-only business for the last few days but are closing after they sell out their perishable inventory on Tuesday, March 17. They’ll be back when they deem it safe to reopen. We’ll be waiting.
Comb through your bookshelves. The beloved Five College Book Sale (one of Yankee Magazine’s “favorite picks for springtime events”) will go on, albeit online (details to come.) But a press release today said it is still accepting books at its collection center in the former Sears store on Route 12A until March 27. [See update in comments. Sale is cancelled.]
Find something uplifting and share it. Like this. It’s beautiful, but it is the sight of people singing that, for me, underscores our common (and teary-eyed) humanity.
So sweetly and thoughtfully offered, Susan, thank you, thank you for all of the effort you are giving this blog about our dear Upper Valley. This Art organization couldn’t appreciate you more or feel more moved by your generosity. ❤️ BigTown xo
I encountered the owner of the Lebanon Diner out walking yesterday. He too has had to close his eatery till the COVID situation settles. Thanks for keeping us aware of how we can support local businesses in these times Susan.