Rainy River is such a gem

Dear Editor,
Once upon a time a village discovered a beautiful transparent gem buried under the town hall. Of course, the town was thrilled and set about to exhibit their rare find. But then someone noticed a tiny chip along one edge. We should remove that blemish before we show it off. It was decided to grind down the edge to match the chip’s depth. This was successfully accomplished but the heat from the grinder caused some translucence within the stone. We will correct the problem with a laser beam. When this was attempted, the beam interrupted the atomic crystalline structure. The gem crumbled. Oh how the towns‚ folk cried! If only we had left it alone! We should have improved the setting it was to displayed in.
Rainy River, together with its surrounding settlements, is such a gem. Where else can you see clear blue skies during the day and a star-studded black blanket at night? Where else can you allow your children to play in the park without having to stand guard? Where else do you discover kids playing a game of pick-up baseball or soccer? Where else can you dash to your next-door neighbour and say, I have to rush Johnny to the hospital. Will you look after Sally for about an hour? Where else do you know most of your neighbours and share in their joys and sorrows? This is the invisible intricate fabric that is Rainy River.
How can Rainy River improve? Seize opportunities to bring in small industry that benefits the whole town. Erect welcome signs at key intersections such as #11 and #71; #11 and #17; and #1 and #12 in Manitoba. But do try to improve internal integrity and small-town perfection.
Cheers and look out for each other.
–J. Graham Ducker