You remember our excellent Medical Office of Health for 12 years, Dr. Rosana Pellizzari-Salvaterra?

When she left Peterborough, she managed to get us another excellent MOH, Dr. Thomas Pigott, who has a similar commitment to public health that includes everybody, and who has a similar understanding of the “social determinants of health” — a livable income, decent housing, access to good food, and the availability of education and leisure. Plus, a network of friends and acquaintances.

I have come to value a friendly neighbourhood as a determinant of my health. Last evening, I walked the three blocks in my north-central area en route to the Dairy Queen, and I encountered several homes where people sat outside, chatting on their porch.

Each had company, but even then, they called out a welcome and inclusive greeting to passersby. I met three new people that way and caught up with the kids and dogs of several more. Two of these teens I met again today at the........

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