
Margaret Atwood and Neil Young sign open letter urging Peterborough library to reverse staff cuts
'Children deserve safe, welcoming, and magical spaces where their imagination and creativity are encouraged and celebrated,'
reads the letter
, organized by a grassroots advocacy group called Our Future Peterborough.
'That the City of Peterborough is considering eliminating these essential roles is deeply disappointing. In a world that feels increasingly indifferent and even hostile toward children's wellbeing, this move is a giant step in the wrong direction.'
Among the letter's signatories are novelists
Margaret Atwood
and
Madeleine Thien
, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee
Neil Young
, former Governor General
Adrienne Clarkson
and many other luminaries from the arts and literature communities.
Children's entertainer Fred Penner also signed the letter, and released an accompanying message: 'When children are born into this world, we have an opportunity to nurture them in every way possible so that they can live up to their potential as caring and contributing adults.'
The open letter is part of a larger community response to the
library's decision to restructure in the wake of budget cuts
.
Earlier this year, Peterborough City Council voted to reduce the library's operating budget by $120,000. In response, the library announced that it would be implementing a staffing reorganization to reduce its expenses, resulting in the elimination of three specialist roles: the adult and teen programming librarian, the librarian who manages the library's information systems (also known as the access services librarian) and the children's librarian.
The decision to cut the library's operating expenses came as part of the municipal budget-setting deliberations, as council sought to make savings in all city departments to reduce property taxes.
According to a statement released by the city in April, the restructuring will result in a net reduction of one position: 'There will be three positions eliminated, and two new positions will be created, for the net reduction of one position. A fourth affected position will be maintained but restructured to expand its role.'
City officials also said that library services, including children's services will be maintained, but 'will be delivered in a different way to help reduce cost increases.'
The news was met with swift backlash from the community. On May 16, around 200 people gathered for a rally outside the main Peterborough Public Library branch, demanding a reversal of the funding cuts, while city council and the library's leadership were inundated with hundreds of letters from concerned residents. An online petition launched in April has already racked up more than 2,300 signatures.
'There's a reason so many esteemed writers and artists signed this letter,' said Sheetal Rawal, who co-founded Our Future Peterborough with Hilary Evans and Laurel Harris. 'They remember the librarians who saw them and encouraged them. They understand what's at stake.'
In a phone call with the Star, Evans said that the cuts to the library were made without any meaningful public consultation.
'It took everybody by surprise,' she said. 'Nobody was really taking ownership of the issue, and there was a lot of deflecting. So in order to bring more attention and awareness to the issue, we decided to write this open letter.'
The open letter was published on Tuesday. Two days later, Evans said she had not heard back from any decision makers.
Peterborough Public Library CEO Jennifer Jones told that Star that is 'wonderful' to see so many people speaking out in support of the library, but believes that the open letter is based on a 'misunderstanding' of the changes that are being made.
'At the moment, it's only the access librarian position that is not being replaced,' Jones said, emphasizing there will only be a net reduction in staff of one. 'The other two (positions) are changing, or repositioned, for lack of a better word. The job descriptions are changing and the tasks and responsibilities they have are changing.'
Evans rejects the claim that the letter is based on a misunderstanding.
'One of the positions they are creating is purely administrative, and the other is an assistant that delivers the programming,' she said. 'This restructuring doesn't take into account the deep community ties that the three librarians have. It doesn't take into account their specialties and their years of experience.'
The proposed new positions, Evans added, will be 'disconnected from the actual people who are using the programs.'
In a joint statement to the Star, Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal and Councillor Matt Crowley, who is a member of the Peterborough Public Library Board, noted that the library's operating budget is increasing by eight per cent this year, from $3.8 million to $4.1 million. The two officials reiterated that library services will be maintained, adding that 'the city opened a brand new library branch in a larger community centre this year to improve access to library services for all residents.'
Asked to respond to the content of the open letter, Leal and Crowley said they 'completely agree with residents and cultural figures who have expressed support for library services,' but noted that the city is in the midst of collective bargaining with the union that represents Peterborough Public Library workers. 'We want to make sure we respect that process as we move forward.'
Sean McCarthy, the chief steward for CUPE Local 1833, a union representing the library workers, told the Star that no one has been laid off yet, and urged city council 'to correct this mess.'
Peterborough residents are planning to assemble once again on Thursday evening outside the public budget consultations to rally support against the library cuts.
The overwhelming response from the community, according to Evans, is rooted in a frustration over cuts to services that she says are not being made with adequate input from the public.
'Libraries are often described as a non-essential service, but the library has become incredibly essential and they're providing way more than just book-borrowing services,' she said. 'I think a lot of people recognize that and a lot of people are just fed up with having wonderful things being slashed and cut and disregarded.'
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Buzz Feed
7 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
Obscure Old TV Shows No One Remembers
Recently, I rounded up some forgotten '90s TV shows, and there were some hidden gems in there! In the comments, BuzzFeed Community members of all ages shared obscure series from their childhoods. Here are 50 of their top responses: "Thirtysomething. Huge hit in the late '80s/early '90s. Literally so forgotten it isn't even streaming anywhere. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that it's about young boomers who have huge houses, kids, and high-paying jobs, and yet do nothing but complain about middle age and how they have to sell out to succeed. I doubt a single person could relate to it today. It was also kinda sexist. The women who were well-adjusted were the stay-at-home moms, and the independent working women had all the psychological issues." —colleend9 "Black Hole High (or if you were in the States, like me, it was Strange Days at Blake Holsey High). It was about a group of science-loving kids at a Canadian boarding school with a wormhole under their school, and they have to figure out what the local evil guy (and dad of one of the kids) wants with it. It has a surprisingly complex myth arc for a children's show, and a good twist near the end. I loved that show. It's streaming on a few different platforms in the US, including Prime." —lobster_lemon_lime "It appears that no one remembers Girlfriends. I always wanted to get Converse because of Persia White's character." —alice_follows_the_white_rabbit "Bosom Buddies had Tom Hanks and Peter Scolari. I can't recall why, but the aforementioned actors disguised themselves as women." [Note: The two male leads disguised themselves so they could live in an affordable female-only apartment building.] —pissedoffprofessor "What I Like About You. 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It's not streaming anywhere either, and it doesn't appear to have ever gotten a home video release, so unless you taped it when it was on, you can't watch it at all now. 😠" —toothlessfeline "Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal, which was a Dan Aykroyd show. They changed much of the cast after Season 1, and Matt Frewer became the star, with Michael Moriarty." —dizzytrash587 "How about Battle Creek with Dean Winters ('Mayhem' in insurance commercials)? Great show that was canceled too soon." —silkytree253 "Now, who else watched Andy Richter Controls the Universe?" —oddrocket298 "Spyder Games was one I feel like NO ONE talks about that was on MTV." —cherielovee "Popular! Whenever I bring it up, no one else has any clue what I'm talking about. 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I miss my pop culture snark shows." —lilpeas35 And finally: "There was an Australian show that aired in Canada called The Girl From Tomorrow about a teen girl who travels back in time. She has this headband thing called a Transducer that allows her to control things. I'm not Australian, so if that show is still remembered there, Aussies, LMK." —five_star Are there any super weird "forgotten" shows you remember from decades ago? Tell us all about them in the comments or in the anonymous comments box below! Do you love all things TV and movies? Subscribe to the Screen Time newsletter to get your weekly dose of what to watch next and what everyone is flailing over from someone who watches everything!


Newsweek
17 hours ago
- Newsweek
WWE's Chelsea Green Says She Received Death Threats After Hulk Hogan Tribute
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Chelsea Green is stepping away from social media after receiving death threats in response to her tribute to Hulk Hogan, the late wrestling icon whose legacy remains deeply polarising. The Canadian WWE star said the backlash to her comments—made during a televised segment and later reiterated online—quickly escalated into harassment, forcing her to take a break from social media for her mental well-being. Newsweek contacted WWE via email for comment on Sunday outside of usual working hours. WWE's Chelsea Green announces a Seattle Seahawks pick during the third day of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 26, 2025. WWE's Chelsea Green announces a Seattle Seahawks pick during the third day of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 26, It Matters Green said she is stepping back from social media following "the name calling, the death threats, the faceless accounts" in response to her remarks about Hogan. The controversy began after Green, 34, appeared on CBS News 24/7 on Thursday, shortly after news broke of WWE legend Hogan's death, on July 24, 2025, at age 71. In the live interview, she praised his legacy and reflected on her positive personal experiences with him, while briefly noting his "polarising political views." Hogan had been a vocal supporter of President Donald Trump prior to his death. As reported by Wrestling News, her remarks, along with the now-deleted social media post, drew criticism from some fans who felt she downplayed the more controversial parts of Hogan's history, including the racism scandal that led to his temporary suspension from WWE in 2015. As reported by Newsweek, in July 2015, Hogan was suddenly removed from all WWE programming and erased from the company's website after he was revealed to have used racist slurs in a private conversation. The scandal re-emerged following Hogan's death, reigniting debate over his complicated legacy. The offensive remarks came to light as part of an investigation into a leaked sex tape that was central to Hogan's legal battle with Gawker Media. Hogan was found to have repeatedly used the n-word and made racially charged comments about his daughter's dating life. WWE swiftly terminated his contract and released a statement reaffirming its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Hogan later issued a public apology, calling his language "unacceptable" and stating it was "not who I am." His removal marked a turning point for professional wrestling's engagement with issues of racism and accountability. As one of the sport's most iconic figures, Hogan's fall from grace sent shockwaves through the industry and sparked wider conversations about how entertainment companies handle misconduct involving high-profile stars. What to Know Green faced intense backlash following her live TV interview and social media post in which she spoke respectfully about the late Hogan's impact on professional wrestling, while acknowledging his controversial political history. "Polarizing political views aside, he was an absolute icon," Green told CBS News 24/7. "If it weren't for Hulk Hogan, there are many of us in the wrestling industry that absolutely would not be here. He inspired a massive generation, so it's a loss that we are feeling deeply in the wrestling community. "I think all of the '80s and '90s babies really grew up with Hulk as their idol in one way or another," Green added later. "And I can't imagine what his family is feeling right now, but it's amazing to see the community—and not just the wrestling community, but the community—come together and honor an American icon." Green echoed the same sentiment in a now deleted follow-up tribute shared on social media, as per the Irish Star. "Political views aside, Hulk Hogan's influence on the wrestling world was clearly undeniable," she wrote. "He inspired millions and shaped an entire generation of fans, my husband included. We are mourning the loss of an icon... a legend. My love goes out to his family." Green was accused of minimizing Hogan's past racism and not adequately condemning it. In a follow-up statement on X, Green emphasized her anti-racism stance. "A significant part of my role at @WWE involves engaging w the public & responding to questions, often on live platforms. "Yesterday, I was asked to comment on Hulk Hogan on live tv. Let me be clear: my stance on racism is unwavering. I do not condone it—period." However, the criticism escalated to personal attacks, name-calling, and death threats from anonymous online accounts. In a post on her X account on Saturday, Green said: "I've tried to keep my page positive and comedic, but today, a lot changed... and it hit harder than I expected. The name calling, the death threats, the faceless accounts. "Social media was supposed to be a fun place and it hasn't been for a while. It's been overwhelming and I need to step away for a little bit." The post has since had 1.1 million views. What People Are Saying In a previous X post before leaving the platform, Green said: "If my response (or tweet) seemed dismissive of real concerns, I sincerely apologize. That was never my intention. I tried to acknowledge a death respectfully, even when the legacy is complicated. I am learning one day at a time and will continue to learn." What Happens Next Green is currently on a social media hiatus and has not announced when she plans to return.


Hamilton Spectator
a day ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Free dance, baseball games, car show this weekend in Hamilton
Electronic Shore bringing trance to Hamilton for fourth year Hnr Sound, a trance and progressive DJ duo, hope to share the impact the genre has had on them, with listeners Weekend events show no sign of slowing down, with free dance lessons, baseball games and more coming up. Environment Canada issued a heat warning that is in effect until at least Friday. Here is what you can do — indoors, while staying cool, and outdoors — this weekend. The Hamilton Filipino heritage festival is back at Bayfront Park ( 200 Harbour Front Dr. ) this weekend. From Friday, July 25 to Sunday, July 27, there are live performances, dance, art, food, cultural exhibits and vendors. Celebrity guests Dessa (Saturday) and Joross Gamboa (Sunday) are featured. There is free parking on site. The Hamilton Fringe Festival continues into this weekend. From ' Brown Noise ,' a standup, sketch and storytelling blend about the South Asian-Canadian experience (tickets for $8) to the cabaret show ' An Urbanist Burlesque ' (free), there are many shows to see. Performances are held at several venues across Hamilton, including The Westdale ( 1014 King St. W. ), Mills Hardware ( 95 King St. E. ), The Staircase Theatre ( 27 Dundurn St. N. ) and the Players' Guild of Hamilton ( 80 Queen St. S. ). For more details on specific plays, times and locations, go to . Line Dance Fridays are back at Studio G Hamilton ( 126 James St. N. ) on July 25 from 7 to 9 p.m. New and experienced dancers are welcome, with lessons progressing from beginner to intermediate. The studio is on the building's second floor. Go to to buy tickets. Steel City Swing hosts their Sunday Social dances at the roller rink near Pier 8 ( 47 Discovery Dr. ) on July 27. At 6:30 p.m., learn a beginner lesson before dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. No partner is required. Bring comfortable shoes, water and maybe a sun hat. Visit for more information. Grab your mat and water bottle and do yoga under the morning sun on Sunday, July 27 from 9 to 10 a.m. All levels of experience are invited to Dundas Driving Park ( 71 Cross St. ). Tickets are available by donation to host Dundas Yoga and Fitness. Seasons Stoney Creek Retirement Community hosts Cars and Coffee, a car showcase with servings of coffee, tea and treats, on Sunday, July 27 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. The free showcase is held at 8 Shoreview Pl. , featuring refreshments, prizes and a chance to win football tickets. Appreciate the cars while mingling with the retirement home residents. Take the family out to the Hamilton Craft Market's event and explore more than 30 vendors' handmade goods, sweets and treats, woodworks, soaps and jewelry on Saturday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Receive a free raffle ticket upon arrival and enjoy a barbecue at St. Michael's Hungarian Hall ( 521 West 5th St. ). The market is also hosting a food drive to support the Neighbour to Neighbour Centre's food bank. Bring a non-perishable food item to donate. Go to for more. Brad Williams, a comedian who has appeared on 'The Tonight Show,' 'Sam and Cat' and Hulu's 'Deadbeat,' performs at FirstOntario Concert Hall ( 1 Summers Ln. ) on Sunday, July 27 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $62.30, including fees and taxes, on Ticketmaster. Go to for tickets. There are two Intercounty Baseball League games this weekend. The Hamilton Cardinals will face the Barrie Baycats on Friday, July 25 at 7:35 p.m. at Bernie Arbour Memorial Stadium ( 1100 Mohawk Rd. E. ). Doors open at 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, July 27, the team will play the Welland Jackfish at 2:05 p.m. Doors open at 1 p.m. Tickets to each game are $13.56, including taxes and fees. Go to to buy. Join a group of coffee and cycling lovers in exploring seven local cafés on Sunday, July 27 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The group meets at Bayfront Park ( 200 Harbour Front Dr. ), cycling to Mulberry Coffeehouse, Relay Coffee Roasters, One For All Coffee, Cafe Baffico, The Cannon, Vintage Coffee Roasters and Hutch's Harbour Front. Menu options range from pastries to sandwiches to fish and chips and pizza. If you don't own a bike, you can rent a city bike for $9 per hour. Go to for more information. Bill King hosts a 'Weird and Wonderful' free walking tour on Sunday, July 27. The group meets at King and John streets at 10 a.m. for the two-hour tour before chatting at Redchurch Cafe. Historian Robin McKee hosts a two-hour Hamilton cemetery ( 777 York Blvd. ) tour on Saturday, July 26 at 11 a.m. The group meets at the gatehouse and the theme is 'Hamilton Firsts.' For more information, go to . Burlington singer-songwriter Hayley Verrall performs at Joseph Brant Museum ( 1240 North Shore Blvd. E. ) for the rooftop event on Friday, July 25 at 7:30 p.m. This is the second of four one-hour performances for the summer event series. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets include the live performance, lawn games, light refreshments, popcorn and admission to the museum galleries. Tickets are $20 for adults or $15 for seniors and students. In the case of inclement weather, performances will be moved to the museum's lakefront or shoreline rooms. Visit for tickets or more information. Cheyenne Bholla is a reporter at The Hamilton Spectator. cbholla@ Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? 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