Celebrating medical renovations
Warkworth centre looks and works better after improvements
The Trent Hills Family Health Team celebrated the official opening of its renovated space at the Warkworth Medical Centre on Thursday.
The improvements to access and workflow and the fresh paint were actually done last year but the official recognition of the work was delayed until a new exterior sign was installed outside the office on George Street.
Doctors Emilie Belys and Kelly Parks shared the giant scissors as they cut a ribbon, then thanked the Warkworth community for the time, money, and effort that turned the renovation ideas into reality.
Trent Hills Mayor Bob Crate, Scott Newman of the Warkworth Community Foundation and Sonny Lennon of the Warkworth Community Service Club helped with the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Belys and Parks also unveiled a plaque thanking all those who helped with the work. Parks quickly adjusted the plaque to make it straighter.
“My first day working here when I walked in and looked around, I thought: ‘This needs work’,” Belys said. The new colours certainly are an improvement. A new door and other changes have improved access and movement.
Legion branches celebrate 100th anniversary
Royal Canadian Legion branches in Trent Hills and across the country are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the creation of the organization.
It was founded in 1925 at a conference in Winnipeg that brought together several veterans’ groups so they could work together to serve veterans. The Legion began with a clear mission — to support veterans, advocate for their rights, and ensure the act of remembrance continues, its website says. On July 17, 1926, the Legion was officially incorporated by an Act of Parliament.
To mark this special anniversary, membership in the Legion is free this year and branches are encouraging everyone to come check out their many community activities – from euchre, to pool, to music – and join their organization. Anyone 18 or older can join, no need to be a veteran.
Next Thursday, May 28, the Campbellford Legion Branch 103 will be holding its executive elections to select the leaders for the next year. If you join now you’ll be able to vote. Most candidates are retired or current veterans who clearly understand the needs of veterans, young and old.
“Strong leadership ensures we continue delivering vital support for veterans, serving our community, and creating a welcoming space for all members,” the branch says on its Facebook page. “Come out, make your voice heard, share your ideas, and let’s keep building on the positive momentum we’ve created together.”
Branch 103 on Bridge Street West has become a thriving, active spot in recent years, driven by its focus on music as a way to continuously bring people into the building and get them involved. Its Sunday afternoon jam sessions are usually packed with musicians and fans.
Music organizer Steve Runions says all the proceeds from those sessions are donated to local community groups such as the Bridge Hospice and the food bank.
“A Legion is strongest when it becomes more than a building — when it becomes a gathering place for community, friendship, service, and remembrance,” Branch 103 says on Facebook. “That spirit is alive and well at the Campbellford Legion.”
On Facebook you can also follow Warkworth Legion Branch 380 or the Hastings Legion Branch 106, which also offer a wide range of community activities.
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