Volunteers deserve a big pat on the back

Letter to the editor,
Another successful Rainy River Walleye Tournament is in the record books and as we reflect on this and past years’ tournaments, and look to the future of the RRWT and other events that make small communities like Rainy River such great places to live, let us all remind ourselves of the truly magnificent contributions of all our community’s volunteers.
Without volunteers the RRWT simply would not happen. Neither would the Pumpkin Festival, Railroad Daze, the Christmas Parade, our Recreation Board, Library, Meals on Wheels, Music Festival and a host of other clubs, organizations, and events, we so often take for granted.
And these volunteers very often receive little or no recognition. They just do what needs to be done, often without being asked. Perhaps it’s planting some flowers or picking up some litter. Maybe it’s the added effort of a municipal employee, doing that little bit extra without pay or thanks. Or someone helping organize an activity for our youth. Even the guy that traps our pesky skunks gets no reward- just recognition at the coffee shop as we all seek a spot upwind.
So take a look in the mirror and here’s a big thank you to that volunteer staring back at you. If it’s not a volunteer staring back, you simply invite them to the next community event to lend a small hand. I’m sure they’d be glad to help out.
Again a big thank you to all you volunteers for making Rainy River one of the best little towns in the world.
–The Board of the Rainy River Walleye Tournament