.jpg;w=960)
Every Tuesday night, my youngest child and I drive out to Capreol Arena for ringette practice. This weekly ritual has become a cherished part of our routine, not only because it allows me one-on-one time with my teen, but also because I enjoy some quiet time at the local Tim Hortons while my daughter is on the ice.
There, I happened to pick up a free copy of The Express — a community newsletter serving Capreol, Hanmer, and Val Caron. And just like that, I fell in love with its warm tone, sense of familiarity, and celebration of the small yet significant acts that define a community.
This little community newsletter, which nearly stopped production, rallied under new management, a new editor, and a new name: The Capreol Express.
Flipping through its 20 pages, I was struck by the abundance of local spirit it carried. Inside was a calendar of events highlighting activities like indoor walking groups, free public skating, a fish fry, a makers’ market, and a list of church services.
Each of these events serves as a reminder of how communities foster connection and provide opportunities for people to come together, share experiences and support one another. There was a heartfelt call for help for the Good Neighbours Valley East Food Bank, an initiative from the Catholic Women’s League to recycle metal and keep it out of landfills, and a holiday toy drive.
The advertisements for local restaurants and their specials made me smile, as did the crossword puzzle, word search, bad jokes and horoscopes. These lighter elements add to the sense of a connected and vibrant community, offering simple joys that bring people together and celebrate everyday life.
The newsletter even included a two-page spread of holiday activities, including the new Santa Claus Parade route — a lovely touch of seasonal cheer. I learned that Capreol had received a Five Bloom rating and a special mention for its Heritage Restoration Program, recognizing its successful repurposing and upgrading of municipal buildings post-amalgamation. This acknowledgement came from the Communities in Bloom organization, a testament to Capreol’s dedication to preserving and revitalizing its community spaces.
There were stories about the Lions Club’s efforts to collect winter clothing and a thank-you note from the Capreol Hawks Hockey team for the community’s support. Despite the rain, over 200 people attended the Remembrance Day service, showing the strength of Capreol’s spirit. I was introduced to the newsletter’s new editor and business owner, enjoyed reading Mat’s Musings, and smiled at Gary sharing his Mexico vacation memories.
But what struck me most was how The Capreol Express made me feel like I was part of something special. The newsletter’s way of celebrating community is deeply personal and heartfelt. They thanked event volunteers by their first names — because, of course, everyone knows Linda, Mitch, and Jenna. That personal touch brought the warmth and familiarity of the community to life on the page.
As the executive director of the Sudbury Community Foundation, I am fortunate to witness firsthand how groups of people come together to make a difference.
For example, the GO Give Project began with now Executive Director Evie Ali and her husband, Ali Faroukh, conducting community outreach using their own supplies and family vehicle, which later expanded with federal funding.
Similarly, the Coalition for a Livable Sudbury, a volunteer-run organization, achieves incredible things, from fundraising for community gardens and little art libraries to advocating for environmental actions with the city.
Capreol’s efforts to keep this gem of a newsletter up and running is a shining example of what makes communities thrive: resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to connection.
These same qualities are evident in other local initiatives, such as the Lions Club’s winter clothing donations and the Good Neighbours Valley East Food Bank’s call for support.
Together, these efforts show how small, dedicated actions can have a significant impact on fostering a vibrant and connected community. A friend recently shared an article from Dr. Vivek Murthy, the outgoing U.S. Surgeon General, who noted that community and connection are essential to healing society’s challenges. Strong communities foster relationships that reduce loneliness, build trust, and promote shared well-being, reminding us that individual and collective health are deeply intertwined.
To the people of Capreol, I offer my heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication to fostering connection and preserving the essence of community is an inspiring model for others. It echoes Dr. Murthy’s call to action: investing in relationships and creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and supported is key to a thriving society. In 2025, I hope all the residents of the Greater Sudbury Area cherish and uplift the unique elements of our community and neighbourhoods, just as Capreol has done.
You have created something truly special with The Capreol Express, and it’s a testament to the power of community and the spirit of working together.
Sally Dunton
Greater Sudbury