Opinion

Wednesday August 22, 2007

Don’t be alarmed if you hear honking as you drive down James Street - it’s just people letting you know they like the new look of the Delhi Belgian Club.
The makeover was needed for a building that, while not in terrible disrepair, was starting to show its age. The new colours - creamy yellow, red and black - are impressive to say the least and certainly make an impact in a town that needs a little pick-me-up.
Even better news than the renovations - club president Marc Vanden Bussche says they’re not done yet.
"Now that the front’s done, we’re going to go inside and spruce things up there with some new paint," he told the News-Record, saying work will likely begin this fall.
It is wonderful to see a business take charge to make a difference in town - but the Delhi Belgian Club isn’t alone. The Capitol Theatre is almost done and will be opening later in September. Already owners Jeff and Monique Maerten have events planned and are working with Bob Missen of the Norfolk Arts Centre to line up some fantastic entertainment.

And when it comes to Harvestfest, a truly made-in-Delhi event, more businesses are getting involved, which is fantastic news.
While one gets the feeling King Street business owners are still harbouring some hurt feelings over being left out (Harvestfest and other events in town like Easter and Christmas events usually take place along Main and Church Streets), it’s good to see bickering businesses are swallowing their pride for the betterment of a local event.
"King Street really isn’t a part of Harvestfest traditionally . . . so we’re bringing it over here too," King Street business owner Wendy Heath said when telling the News-Record about events happening at her store during the annual event. The plan isn’t to pit her business and events against Harvestfest but instead, to enhance what Harvestfest already offers.
Harvestfest chair Bill Graham seems to agree, saying, "we can work together on all this."
Working together - that’s a good idea.
Businesses are starting to see it doesn’t have to be King Street versus Main Street - events should be about Delhi. Period.
There have been too many instances where businesses in Delhi are looking out for themselves and not considering the community they are serving. Events meant for the children have turned into competitions between businesses and squabbles have broken out over minor details. It’s not longer about the children in these cases, but instead, which business is going to benefit.
But it seems as though the businesses might actually be turning a corner and coming together for the common good. Harvestfest is a start. That good news gives us all something to honk about.

Delhi News Record