We're sailing into uncharted waters

Originally, I wrote a piece about attending Raise the Booty for this space.

I guess the topic of my column is just one of the many things that has been changed because of the coronavirus.

So, because of a number of cancellations and postponements, our magazine is a little smaller than usual this month. In addition, some of the things that are still scheduled as of our press time may end up getting pushed back as well.

It’s a strange time for all of us. Restaurants are take-out only, gas prices are under $2 and still falling and there’s excitement when you find toilet paper at the grocery store.

Viewed in that context, the fact that we had to take a bucket of red ink to our last proof for this issue is not such a big deal.

Still, we strive to provide our friends and neighbors with quality content and accurate calendar listings. That’s harder to do when we’re all staying inside for the foreseeable future. All we can do is our best, however, and that’s our pledge to you. So, if it’s listed in the calendar, you might want to call and see if the event is still happening.

As I wrote in the previous version of this column:

In total, Raise the Booty raised more than $58,000, which includes almost $18,000 for a Story Walk for the park. After Owen Daughtry’s presentation, I was struck by the selflessness of my friends and neighbors, who threw up their auction signs to give money so that kids walking through the park can know that there are others out there just like them. ... Nights like Raise the Booty remind me why I’m proud to call Johnston County home.

We can do anything together. This is no different.