Consider This (https://consider-this.ca/tag/community/page/34/)
Community affairs
Like so many other libraries in Northumberland County, the Mary J. Benson Library in Port Hope was preparing for its March Break programming full throttle. In the background, a worldwide pandemic was about to change everything. Suddenly, the programs were being cancelled. Then, just as fast, the library was closed. Chief Librarian Margaret Scott and her staff had to pivot quickly in response. Continue Reading →
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Graduation ceremonies are special. The grad dance is a chance to dress up in stylish gowns and tuxes. The parade is a grand moment for family and grads as they make their way to the bash. Then, there are the solemn moments when the graduate crosses the stage, and parents burst with pride. It is an important ritual – as a touchstone for many lives marking the end of one stage of life, moving us into another. Continue Reading →
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We watch as anti-lockdown protesters shouting their objections to the restrictions placed by the government in the United States. This inspired a small, local group to demonstrate in front of Victoria Hall. Then, there are those people who object to wearing a mask to prevent the spread of the virus or those who ignore the physical distancing requirements. Then, there are those on social media who spew their vitriol by posting memes against public health officials or restrictions placed by governments and experts. They see it as an impediment to their freedoms and rights. Continue Reading →
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It is now an all too familiar mantra: physical distance, wash your hands, stay home, wear a mask. But, there is a lot more to it than just repeating those guidelines. Businesses are reopening. We are being given more chances to get outside and enjoy nature. This is something important especially for those who feel cooped up for the past two months. Continue Reading →
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On May 19, the Ontario government announced it was relaxing a number of restrictions it put in place to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The idea was to “flatten the curve” to prevent widespread illness and death. While it allowed some businesses the ability to re-open in a limited way, it also permitted some recreational opportunities to start up. It was a chance to see if people could follow public health guidelines. Would individuals maintain physical distancing? Continue Reading →
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Learning seamanship might sound like something out of a swashbuckling movie like Pirates of the Caribbean. Yet twice a week, about 23 young people between the ages of nine and 12 meet at a hall on Mill Street in Port Hope next to a fish and chip shop to learn the skills of sailors and much more. The Navy League of Northumberland has been a going concern since 2003. And its leader, Lt. Michael Pigeon, was recently recognized for his service to the organization. He received the National President’s Award for his outstanding contribution to the Navy League of Canada and for his work with the local group. Continue Reading →
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The Cobourg Public Library is now loaning books through a curb-side pickup. This is all part of a major metamorphosis taking place led by Chief Executive Officer Tammy Robinson and her staff. They are to re-inventing the library and its place in the community. And it is all goes back to the beginning of the pandemic in mid-March.
The key was to see the opportunities that existed. Continue Reading →
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More and more we are hearing about the mental health echo. This is the effect of the pandemic on people’s psyche. The physical distancing, isolation, and other measures are placing unprecedented anxiety and stress on our lives. Mental health services in Northumberland are expanding. We have watched as new and existing organizations work hard to meet the needs of our community. Continue Reading →
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It is amazing how small things can really hurt. Take for example a tiny bit of cat kibble under a barefoot on the kitchen floor. A stiff collar rubbing against your neck. A lump in an old chair that won’t disappear no matter how much you shift around. Then, think about wearing a face mask for a 12-hour shift. Continue Reading →
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Recently, a call went out from Northumberland Hills Hospital. It needed washable face masks, surgical caps, scrub bags, and mask buddies, a knitted item that makes wearing a face mask all day way more comfortable. Tim Badgley, a Port Hope resident, saw a the post on social media. He is a semi-retired businessman who owned an interior design shop for 26 years in the downtown. But before the hospital made its appeal, Tim was already busy. Continue Reading →
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