Help for Nigeria

THUMBS UP: Fr. Cornelius Ezeiloaku has been making himself at home in New Ulm for the past few years, serving as a priest in the New Ulm Diocese. But he hasn’t forgotten his home in Onitsha, Nigeria.

Fr. Cornelius (it’s easier than Fr. Ezeiloaku) is heading home this Christmas with a couple of containers of items donated by people and organizations in the area — medical supplies, clothing, wheelchairs, walkers, power tools and bicycles, even pianos and organs for seminarians who want to study music as they prepare for the priesthood.

This weekend it is all being backed up to be shipped back to Nigeria. The cost of shipping is several thousand dollars, and financial donations will help cover the cost. Checks can be made out to “FOR NIGERIA.” Financial donations can be sent to Fr. Cornelius Ezeiloaku at Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, 605 State St. N., New Ulm, Mn 56073. He has organized a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization for the project, so all donations are tax deductible.

Shopping opener

THUMBS UP: The idea of holding a shopping opener in New Ulm to coincide with the deer season opener started up several years ago, and it has been growing in popularity ever since. It’s a chance for local specialty shops and area crafters to market their holiday wares throughout town, drawing customers here from a wide area.

We hope both openers — deer and shopping — are favored with good weather this weekend for successful hunting.

Get kids protected

THUMBS UP: The latest round of the battle against COVID-19 began this week with the approval of vaccines for children aged 5-11. When a major percentage of children are vaccinated and protected against COVID-19, will make things easier in the schools, and allow children to resume much of their normal activities — playing with friends, going to birthday parties, holding sleepovers without worrying about masks and social distancing.

We hope parents, even those who are reluctant to get vaccinated themselves, will see the wisdom in protecting their children.