Collin Whitehouse Collin Whitehouse

Consider This Northumberland - March 15: Solar Eclipse / Cobourg Economic Development

A total solar eclipse will pass over Northumberland County on April 8. Residents will experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch this unique phenomenon. The last one took place nearly 400 years ago, and it will be another 400 years before it happens again.

On today’s show, Rick Stankiewicz, publicity director for the Peterborough Astronomical Association, will walk us through a total solar eclipse. He will explain what it is, where it will occur, and how to watch it safely. As someone who has watched a total solar eclipse before, he says it will be an awesome experience.

 Next, you will learn more about the Cobourg economy. The town’s economic development manager, Daniel Van Kampen, recently released its annual report. You will learn more about what he and his team do to bring industry, services, and retail to the town and what he hopes to achieve during the upcoming year.

Read More
Collin Whitehouse Collin Whitehouse

Consider This Northumberland - February 23: Port Chamber Report / Campbellford File Festival

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce released its annual report recently. Business confidence is low across the province. There are a host of issues facing a wide range of sectors across the business spectrum. Yet, in the midst of all the doom and gloom, there is some limited optimism about the upcoming year.

Brenda Whitehead, CEO of the Port Hope Chamber of Commerce, is going to give a local perspective on the mood of her members. A record number of businesses from Northumberland County participated in the survey this year.

When it comes to painting a picture of the business environment, her message is simple: it all depends on who you are talking to. For some, the opportunities for expansion and growth exist. Yet, for others, there are big challenges, such as layoffs and cutbacks. She will give her analysis and insight.

Then, there is a story about a group of farmers holding a film festival in Campbellford next weekend. That’s right. I said a film festival presented by local farmers.

Read More
Collin Whitehouse Collin Whitehouse

Consider This Northumberland - February 9: YMCA Daycare / Campbellford Memorial Hospital CEO

As one of the largest daycare providers in Northumberland County, the YMCA offers a unique perspective on the pressures operators face. As we heard last week, the transition to providing $10/day spaces has left many providers wondering if they can stay open.

Eunice Kirkpatrick, CEO of the YMCA Northumberland, gives a candid assessment of the situation from the frontlines. Operating 22 programs in the county, it is the largest non-profit supplier of daycare, as well as before and after school programs for kids. You will want to hear what she says in the first segment if you are a parent, grandparent, or caregiver.

Then, you will hear about the trials and tribulations of running a small hospital in rural Ontario. Campbellford Memorial Hospital CEO Jeff Hohenkerk (HO-en Kirk) will respond to a recent report released by the Rural Ontario Municipal Association detailing the immense challenges rural hospitals face.

Read More