Your copy of the Wellington Advertiser looks a little different this week. A few months back we had a trainer in for courses in the graphics department and our Newsroom.
He queried the size of type and suggested some new styles that would be more current, and more importantly, friendlier for our readers to read.
It’s something we have thought about for a while. Nine-point Times New Roman served us well for nearly 50 years, but as more and more readers have casually mentioned, the type size is such that they seem to need longer arms or better glasses. We hope this change helps with that and as always, we encourage feedback.
Missing Hopkins
We have fielded a few calls with respect to the absence of Barrie Hopkins’ column the last week or two.
He is taking a little break but hopes to have a column soon. Hopkins has been with us for over 30 years. As soon as we get it, we will publish it.
Gearing up for IPM
It’s almost hard to believe but the IPM hosted this year in Wellington County is almost here. We previously attended the International Plowing Match in Teviotdale in 1984 and again in 2000 near Elora. Every decade offers up change, so it will be good to see what’s new in agriculture.
It will also be good to catch up with old friends, see some world class plowing, look at antique equipment and check out the Wellington County tent, which we hear is going to be awesome. For newcomers to this county this event is a great opportunity to get a glimpse of the rural treasures to be found here in Wellington.
Labour Day
Although we have grievances with union activities from time to time, we readily acknowledge the positive effects unions have had in Canada. Readers should too.
Labour Day recognizes strides made in working conditions from a health and safety perspective and just as importantly the adoption of more humane work weeks. A six-day work week was common, as were shifts of 12 hours. Today’s workers, despite a sense of hardship in some quarters, are way better off than previous generations.
Back to school
Where the summer went, who knows. Come Tuesday most students will head back to the classroom and catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Parents will need to be a little mindful how stressful this week can be, especially for students attending a new school for the first time. Although kids at certain ages may be less forthcoming than bright eyed youngsters, a good start requires a lot of listening. It is these first few days that count as kids settle in to the school year. Bullying is far better nipped in the bud than left to fester.
Motorists will need to be extra careful now that buses have returned and students are back on the streets. Everyone will be a little excited so watch for cyclists and little people jumping out from behind parked cars. The extra effort will ensure no one gets hurt.
