50 YEARS AGO: Financial woes at hospital

35 years ago

July 6, 1972 – Alarm over a growing deficit was forcing cutbacks at Digby General Hospital. The hospital board decided to limit the daily census of patients during July and August to 60, allowing it to operate with reduced staff.

Dr. James Fitzgerald, an Antigonish native and recent graduate of Dalhousie Medical School, arrived to set up his practice in the McCleave Medical Centre. He had a special interest in pediatrics.

Wilbur VanTassell, who served for 34 years as manager of the old Capitol Theatre, cut the ribbon as the newly renovated structure reopened as the Little Theatre. VanTassell joined the Capitol when it was built by Charles Walker, who had previously owned and operated the Bijou Theatre.

For the first time in Digby history, town councilors were to be paid a salary. Town council voted in the $500 annual stipend, but left undecided the salary of mayor.

Seventy-seven boys signed up for Little League baseball.

At the Little Theatre was ‘Le Mans’, starring Steve McQueen, still one of the best racing movies ever made.

50 years ago

July 4, 1957 - An editorial noted the Digby General Hospital was facing an alarming financial situation, one that could lead as far as closure. The hospital was carrying a bank overdraft of $14,000 and was owed almost $50,000 by people who had not paid their hospital bills. Drastic measures were likely, noted the writer.

Diane Scragg of Bear River, “a tall vivacious brunette”, was chosen Digby Scallop Queen at the princess ball in Harbour View Casino. She was a telephone operator at the Digby exchange.

Richard Allen Levy of Digby passed his pharmacy exams and qualified to register in Nova Scotia as a pharmaceutical chemist.

Paul VanTassel led the way as Digby Ravens thumped Bridgetown 19-7 in Western Valley League baseball action.

Gregory Peck and Jennifer Jones were the stars of ‘The Man in the Gray Flannel Suit’, playing at the Capitol.

60 years ago

July 3, 1947 –Esther Rosenthal, 16, newly chosen as Miss Digby County, laid the cornerstone for Digby’s new rink, which was being transported from the former air force barracks in Yarmouth. The recreation building had been purchased by the Digby Board of Trade.

Crowds lined the streets for Digby’s Dominion Day parade. Horse and ox pull contests were the afternoon’s main attractions.

At the Capitol was the movie ‘California, starring Ray Milland and Barbara Stanwyck.