By Alex McCuaig

Flying the Flag

Flying the flag: One Hatter’s effort to soften hard edge of global pandemic

Mar 28, 2020 | 4:54 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – With one gloved hand firmly gripped on a home-made flag pole flying the maple leaf, Mike Howkins snaps a salute to every trucker who approaches the South Ridge Drive overpass along the Trans-Canada Highway with most of the long-haul drivers returning the gesture with a honk.

It’s part of what Howkins is calling Morale Bridges, an endeavour to try to lift the spirits Hatters and all who pass through the city along the highway.

“People need hope at the moment,” said Howkins Saturday morning as countless motorists honked their horns in support. “People need a morale boost.”

Howkins’ inspiration for spending much of his free time – he is still working – on a wind-swept overpass was simple.

He just wanted to do something to soften the hard edge of a global pandemic that has cut through what most Canadians once saw as normal daily life.

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“I woke up at 3 o’clock in the morning and I had tears rolling into my ears – it kind of bugged me, I got to do something,” said Howkins. “What can I do that’s not about me, it’s about people.”

Pointing to the highway sign below the overpass, Howkins added, “that road there is called the Highway of Heroes – how fitting is that. You’ve got truckers delivering food.”

Howkins says he is inviting Hatters to join him in waving flags and says while he has some spares, he is welcoming those to bring their own flag from any country to show a unified spirit in dealing with a global emergency.

Those interested can get in touch with Howkins through his Facebook page, Morale Bridges – Medicine Hat.