We’ve been telling you that most of Ontario including the North Bay area will be moving into stage 3 on Friday.

North Bay Mayor Al McDonald says that’s great news for local businesses who have been doing a great job of weathering the COVID-19 storm.

“I would say the businesses have been positive dealing with all this. Now, these ones that been shut for 121 days can re-open, hire their staff back and get back at making money,” he says.

He says many businesses have made changes to the way they serve the public. McDonald hopes residents will make shopping local a priority as many businesses re-open their doors.

McDonald says North Bay is part of the re-opening because the general public has done a great job in keeping the COVID-19 caseload low but people can’t change their habits.

“This doesn’t mean we’re safer. Infact, if we don’t follow the protocols we could see a spike. I encourage people to keep following the protocols, maintain a distance of six feet and don’t let your guard down,” McDonald says.

McDonald says stage 3 is also an opportunity for people to get out more as restrictions on athletic facilities are starting to get lifted.

(photo by station staff)

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