The Citizen - Dec. 10, 2020

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Thursday, December 10, 2020

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Volume 36 No. 50

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Glen McNeil named 2021/2022 Warden

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

That time of year Annie Sparling of the Blyth Community Betterment Group led a virtual Lighting of the Lights ceremony on Friday night, welcoming residents to join in and be part of the time-honoured tradition from the comfort of their homes. Sparling was one of three speakers at the ceremony, which was held in front of Memorial Hall, including her husband and Chair of the Blyth Business Improvement Area David Sparling and Blyth Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt.

(Denny Scott photo)

Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh (ACW) Mayor Glen McNeil has been elected the 2021/2022 Warden of Huron County.

With his election, McNeil becomes just the third person to serve in the capacity since the term was expanded to two years, following Morris-Turnberry Mayor Paul Gowing (2015/2016) and Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn (2017/2018 and 2019/2020).

McNeil was one of two men who ran for the position. He defeated South Huron Mayor George Finch, a retired Ontario Provincial Police officer, when the new warden was chosen at Huron County Council’s virtual meeting on Dec. 2.

Howick Reeve Doug Harding nominated McNeil for the position, saying he has been friends with McNeil for over 50 years dating back to time spent together as members of the Junior Farmers organization.

He detailed McNeil’s political career, saying he was first elected as a member of ACW Council in 2014 and was acclaimed as its warden, succeeding long-time Mayor Ben Van Diepenbeek, in 2018. Under McNeil’s leadership, Harding said, the municipality has focused on growth and attracting businesses, which has been done successfully in recent years.

Harding also recited McNeil’s agricultural qualifications, not only as a farmer himself, but as someone

who has been heavily involved with the International Plowing Match (IPM) every time it has been hosted in Huron County in recent decades.

Harding moved McNeil’s nomination and Central Huron Deputy-Mayor Dave Jewitt seconded it, with McNeil accepting the nomination.

North Huron Reeve Bernie Bailey introduced Finch as a candidate for warden, detailing his over 30 years as an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officer. Bailey said Finch’s work in policing Huron County would be an asset to his time as warden, saying he has seen the best and the most difficult circumstances in Huron County.

Bailey also detailed the investment taking place in South Huron under Finch’s leadership, with millions being invested in new residential development in the municipality.

He said Finch would make a great leader for Huron County, who would be strong, thoughtful and understanding.

Bailey made a motion to nominate Finch for the position, which was seconded by Bluewater Mayor Paul Klopp.

Finch accepted the nomination.

Both McNeil and Finch addressed Huron County Council before the vote, making the case for why they would be the best man to lead the county for the next two years.

Finch said he had no doubt that any Huron County councillor would make a great warden, but that he was Continued on page 3

COVID-19 cases rising across region: Klassen

By Denny Scott The Citizen Over the past week, the number of confirmed cumulative cases of COVID-19 in Huron and Perth Counties has climbed by 60 cases from 333 to 393, with 51 of those cases being considered active.

New cases can be found across the region according to Dr. Miriam Klassen, the medical officer of Health for Huron and Perth Counties. She reported, during a

press conference on Monday, that the most recent cases are linked to North Perth, Stratford, Perth East, Bluewater, Goderich and North Huron.

Currently, six people are hospitalized due to COVID-19, an increase of two patients, with the most recently hospitalized individual being from the community and not tied to the numerous outbreaks in the area.

Klassen also reported one more death to the virus, this time a

community member not tied to an ongoing outbreak, which brings the area’s total to 19 deaths.

Outbreaks continue at Stratford General Hospital in the Medicine Unit where two cases have been identified in staff, Seaforth Manor where one staff member has tested positive and Cedarcroft Lodge where there have been 74 total cases, including 50 residents and 24 staff.

Of those cases, five residents and three staff members are considered active infections.

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Two schools are still under pandemic controls including Northside Christian School in North Perth, which is closed with one staff member case and St. Mary’s Catholic School in North Perth, which has three student cases. As a result of the cases at St. Mary’s Catholic School, several cohorts have been dismissed from the school over the past several weeks.

In the Avon-Maitland District School Board, there are three identified COVID-19 advisories that

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remained unresolved as of Monday, and one “unspecified” outbreak.

Listowel District Secondary School, F.E. Madill Secondary School in Wingham and Central Huron Secondary School in Clinton each have one confirmed case, while the former two each have each sent home one cohort as a result. The one case in Central Huron Secondary School hasn’t resulted in a cohort closure. The “unspecified” advisory doesn’t list a school, but does Continued on page 2

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PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

This holiday season needs to be different.

The saffe est way to celebrate indoors is only with the people who live in your home. People who live alone can get together only with one other home.

The season is here Blyth Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt made a cameo in the virtual Lighting of the Lights ceremony, hosted in front of Memorial Hall and streamed by the Blyth Community Betterment Group. (Denny Scott photo)

Entering Red Level a ‘real possibility’ Continued from page 1 confirm one case and no closures.

As for Huron and Perth Counties’ placement in the provincial framework, Dr. Klassen said the area moving to the Red, or “Control” level was a “real possibility” when asked on Monday. Currently, the area is in the “Restrict” or Orange level.

Klassen said she encouraged everyone to do more and stay home to “bend the wave”.

“If you have symptoms, get assessed and tested,” she said. “We do continue to hear of instances where people are going to work ill.

This is going to keep cases increasing.”

Her stance was starkly different from Thursday, Dec. 3, when Klassen said, according to the published guidelines, Huron and Perth Counties were still in the Orange level, adding that the Ministry of Health may have other measurements to take into consideration.

“At this time, numbers are still going in the wrong direction and are high,” she said on Thursday. “Huron Perth Public Health is still able to do case management - we’re doing 50 cases and 350 contacts right now.

Local hospital leadership is not cancelling surgeries.”

She went on to say things could change very quickly, especially with people not following recommendations by carpooling or eating lunch together at work or not following physical distancing when in public.

“The recommendations are quite clear: limit your interactions to your own house,” she said, adding the HPPH continues to hear cases of people getting together, not following the rules and potentially transmitting the virus.

“What I would say is these measures have to be applied consistently,” she said. “People seem to feel if they don’t have a recent case in their municipality, they are safe. That’s wrong thinking.”

She said cases mean the virus could have started transmitting as

long ago as two weeks prior to the announcement.

“Everyone we encounter could transfer it to us or we could transfer it to them,” she said, adding that while a vaccine is in sight, it could take months to get it to the public.

Stratford, North Perth and Perth East continue to be hit hardest by the virus with 294, or approximately 75 per cent of the cases from Huron and Perth Counties in those three areas.

Between Monday, Nov. 30 and Dec. 7, Stratford has increased from 132 confirmed cumulative cases to 151 cases. Perth East has climbed from 66 to 78 cases in the same period while North Perth had a significant increase from 45 cases to 65. West Perth increased from seven to eight cases since the start of the pandemic, while St. Marys and Perth South stayed at eight and nine cases, respectively.

In Huron County, Central Huron has the most cases, having climbed from 17 cases on Nov. 30 to 18 cases as of Monday. Bluewater increased from 15 to 17 cases while South Huron remained at 15 cases. Howick moved from five to seven cases.

Goderich has increased from four cases to five, Ashfield-ColborneWawanosh remains at four cases, as does Huron East. North Huron has one more case, bringing its total three since the pandemic started while Morris-Turnberry remains at one case.

More and more cases are coming from unknown sources of infections according to HPPH’s website, which lists 31.6 per cent of reported cases as being connected to unknowable sources, up from 29 per cent last week.

Cases tied to outbreaks are responsible for 25.5 per cent of all cases, down from 26.5 per cent, while a higher percentage of cases are connected to household contact (from 21.6 per cent last week to 22.4 per cent as of Monday). The percentage of close contact cases has dropped from 19.1 per cent to 17.4 per cent while those linked to travel have dropped from 3.7 per cent to 3.2 per cent.

For more information, visit hpph.ca.

Gatherings with friends and extended family can carry an increased risk of getting and spreading CO OV VID-19.

Consider celebrating outdoors or virtually with others that are not part of your household.

Know the gathering limits in your area beffo ore you choose to entertain with family and friends indoors. Indoor gatherings are not permitted in regions in Grey - Lockdown.

For all gatherings with anyone you do not live with: • maintain 2 metres physical distance • wear a face covering • avoid potlucks or shared utensils • ensure everyone washes hands regularly, y, including beffo ore and after meals Self-isolate if you are sick, even if your symptoms are mild and ask guests to stay home if they ffe eel unwell.

Follow provincial and local public health advice to keep you and your loved ones saffe e this holiday.

Stopping the spread, starts with you.

Visit ontario.ca/celebratesaffe ely to learn more.

Paid for by the Government of Ontario

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 3.

Hutton Heights development to include 103 units

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Hutton Heights development has more direction after North Huron Council decided on a tentative layout and servicing plan for the municipally-funded residential development on Monday night.

Hutton Heights, a development area just southwest of the intersection of County Roads 4 and 86, remains a high-priority project for North Huron Township Council as a means of creating homes.

After the presentation of a report from engineering firm BM Ross, North Huron Township Council

voted to pursue an option that would see the municipally-owned property subdivided to create 103 units of varying densities, the maximum amount proposed by the firm.

The layout included 30 single family homes, 14-semi-detached properties, three triplexes and nine quadruplexes, as well as 892 metres of road.

As part of the presentation, BM Ross representatives also proposed potential sites for water and sanitary servicing infrastructure and stormwater management.

The “external cost”, or the cost to get the servicing to the to-bedeveloped lands, would exceed $5 million, according to the

presentation. The “internal costs” for the development, or the cost to service each property from the main infrastructure, would cost approximately $33,000 per lot for the servicing to the created properties (nearly $3.3 million).

The next steps for the project include preparing a draft plan of subdivision and application for submission to the county, which would be followed by months of engineering and tender processes with construction possible in the spring of 2022 according to BM Ross staff estimates.

As part of the process, BM Ross representatives suggested that council consult with other property

owners who may benefit from the services being run, such as the existing developed properties in the area and other developable parcels.

Reeve Bernie Bailey agreed, saying that he had discussed the issue with some property owners who were excited council is moving forward with the development.

Deputy-Reeve Trevor Seip asked where the $5 million for the project would come from and while Bailey said it could be paid for through the sale of the lands, BM Ross staff said Bailey’s take wasn’t entirely accurate as the $5 million only covered the municipal infrastructure and not what it would cost to connect each property.

Director of Finance Donna White said that the municipality could easily get half the funds through a loan from either CIBC or Infrastructure Canada, with the latter offering a very low interest rate, but

being designed as a long-term loan.

The CIBC offer had a higher interest rate, but was considered a bridge loan, which would only be used for what was necessary and could be paid back more freely. Despite the options presented, council didn’t make a final decision on financing.

Council decided to go ahead with the recommended option presented

by BM Ross with Bailey lauding the move as great for the ratepayers of North Huron.

“Can you imagine North Huron running pipes into North Huron,” he said. “We’re not running them outside so someone else has the tax benefit.”

Bailey went on to say that it was “amazing” what North Huron could do by focusing inward, then requested a recorded vote on the matter with everyone voting to go ahead.

Nothing is more helpful and practical in Christian living!

“Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” Joshua 1:8 The habit of treasuring up a test of Scripture in the morning, to be meditated upon while engaged in the business of the world through the day — is both profitable and delightful. It is as a refreshing spring to a weary traveler.

Staples While reverse parades are a new way of celebrating the holidays, that doesn’t mean the staples, like the presence of fire engines and firefighters, can’t be involved as well. Above Central Huron firefighters took part in the reverse parade held in Clinton on Saturday, which included over a dozen floats at the Central Huron Community Complex. (John Stephenson photo)

NH moves meetings online

By Denny Scott The Citizen After a day-long budget meeting scheduled for Dec. 10, North Huron Township Council will be moving forward with electronic meetings for both council and many committees of council.

During Monday night’s meeting, council enacted a policy that would allow electronic meetings to continue regardless of whether there is a declared state of emergency after moving to in-person meetings in August.

Clerk Carson Lamb explained that, with the possibility of North Huron moving into the “Red” level of the province’s COVID-19 framework, the move would allow council and committees the flexibility to host meetings electronically.

While some council members wanted to go ahead with the change immediately, North Huron Reeve Bernie Bailey explained that he wanted to “get the budget under control” in person during the Dec. 10 budget meeting before moving online, calling the session “one of the most important meetings” on council’s calendar.

Councillor Anita van Hittersum agreed, saying she would prefer that meeting to be in-person due to the many issues to be addressed.

Other council members were concerned there was no definitive end to online meetings included in the document. Councillor Kevin Falconer asked why meetings weren’t tied to the province’s colourcoded system.

“We didn’t want to put the colourcoded system in as... the province’s actions may change,” Lamb said,

pointing to how tumultuous a period the pandemic has been.

Lamb then said that council could always change the provisions when necessary, or leave it up to the emergency operations control group

to return meetings to in-person when that group feels it's appropriate.

Council approved electronic meeting provisions for council and the municipality’s committees going forward.

McNeil named Warden

Nothing is more helpful and practical in Christian living, than the habit of getting a verse of Scripture into the mind and heart in the morning. Its influence stays through the day, weaving itself into all the day’s thoughts and words and experiences.

Every verse in the Bible is meant to help us to live — and a good devotional book opens up the precious teachings which are folded up in its words.

A devotional book, which takes a Scripture text, and so opens it for us in the morning — that all day long it helps us to live, becoming a true lamp to our feet, and a staff to lean upon when the way is rough — is the very best devotional help we can possibly have. What we need in a devotional book which will bless our lives — is the application of the great teachings of Scripture — to common, daily, practical life!

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night! Psalm 1:1-2 A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church, Listowel, ON 519-492-1359

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In a year full of odd firsts, Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Mayor Glen McNeil was the first Huron County Warden to be sworn in via the internet after beating out South Huron Mayor George Finch for the position in an anonymous vote.

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(Shawn Loughlin photo)

Continued from page 1 hoping they would support his bid.

Similarly, McNeil said he wanted to follow in the footsteps of Central Huron Mayor and two-term Huron County Warden Jim Ginn and the excellent example he set for governance in the county.

Saturday, December 12

In the end, by way of a secret vote, McNeil won the election, with councillors voting anonymously through Zoom.

He thanked councillors for having confidence in him and pledged to do the job to the best of his ability for the next two years.

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PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Editorials & Opinions

President: Keith Roulston • Publisher: Deb Sholdice Editor: Shawn Loughlin • Reporter: Denny Scott Advertising Sales: Brenda Nyveld • Heather Fraser

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Hitting home For many in our region, the pandemic has posed a somewhat distant threat. With Huron and Perth Counties having relatively few cases compared to the hotbeds in the province, many residents have no firsthand knowledge of the virus other than hearing about the struggles in our local long-term care facilities. Then, local news outlets reported on a 44year-old father of three from Belmont, just outside of London, who died from COVID-19 and suddenly, with a name and a face, the threat came that much closer. While we may not know this family directly, the tragedy hit home for many.

Doctors and health authorities have warned of the dangers to all age groups, but at times it’s easy to look at the percentages and think that if you’re under 60 you’re safe. This one news item that made the rounds is a good reminder that this isn’t the case. It’s also an illustration of why local reporters are important. They connect the dots on how global issues affect people right here in our backyard. The story started with a social media plea from the family to take the virus seriously. A local reporter saw it and produced a story, and from there the story has travelled nationally reaching a far wider audience. – DS

Making an impact Just over six years ago, the Huron County Council of the day voted to double the term of the Huron County Warden from one year to two. At the time, it’s safe to say, many saw the county warden as a ceremonial position, rather than a political one. Councillors would take their turn as warden and spend a year cutting ribbons, bringing greetings and handing out or receiving oversized cheques with a banquet at the end of the term.

That’s not to say those who served as one-year wardens didn’t take it seriously or that their contributions should be diminished, but when a two-year term was instituted, it seems to have fundamentally altered the job. With more continuity and a greater opportunity to develop relationships with provincial and federal officials or those from neighbouring counties, the office of warden is now more of a political position in the truest sense of the word than it had been in the past.

In his farewell speech, after serving four years in the position, Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn said he felt the county’s profile had been elevated during the last four years and that many high-ranking officials know where Huron County is and what is happening here because of the work done over the last four years.

In this sense, the two-year term did its job, elevating the position and creating an environment in which someone could focus on the work that needed to be done full-time. That is evident in Ginn’s time as the chair of the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus and through flourishing relationships with the federal and provincial governments.

Congratulations to and the best of luck to newly-elected Warden Glen McNeil of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh. He is the latest to step into the role and, with Ginn’s big shoes to fill and the pandemic intensifying week by week, he will have his work cut out for him. – SL

Use it or lose it The Alberta Federation of Labour, among others, are reporting that the Alberta government is leaving funds on the table that could help support essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and some are suggesting it’s so Premier Jason Kenney can blame Ottawa.

The same argument has been made in Ontario where Premier Doug Ford has been accused of not using funds set aside for education as a means of blaming Ottawa for the shortcomings of his own government.

Teachers’ unions and government critics have said Ford is either not using or misusing federal funds meant to help the education sector.

In Alberta, the federal Essential Workers Program, which would add three dollars of federal funds to every one spent by the provincial government, has been ignored with the Kenney government only utilizing 3.45 per cent of its $347,769 allocation.

The program, announced in May, allows employers to offer increased wages for staff working through the pandemic. Most other provinces and territories have used over 90 per cent or all of their allocation, with the Yukon, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick, along with Alberta, being the only provinces to not even hit the 70 per cent mark. The moves have brought derision and frustration from those involved as they feel the provincial government isn’t working for the people, but rather to justify Kenney’s (and Ford’s) stance that the federal Liberal government and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau aren’t meeting their obligations.

The Alberta government says it’s “in negotiations” for the funding, but, with other provinces having used all their funding some time ago, there is doubt as to the legitimacy of that statement.

The provincial governments, regardless of whether they are conservative, liberal or somewhere in between, need to take advantage of this funding to help everyone get through this pandemic. – JDS

Looking Back Through the Years December 12, 1963 The 16th annual Huron County 4H Achievement Night was held in Clinton, honouring a number of local members for their hard work and dedication over the past year.

Bluevale’s Neil Gowing and John Wightman of Belgrave were both presented with special awards.

Gowing received the Warden’s Trophy for the highest score by a first-year member, while Wightman was presented with a wrist watch for having the highest score in the 4-H Beef-Calf Clubs.

A banquet was held in Belgrave to honour the Intermediate B Grand Champion softball team from the community. Jim Coultes was named the team’s batting champion, while Glen Coultes was named its most valuable player.

December 15, 1999 Murray Siertsema and Bill Bromley were busy erecting new signs at the north and south ends of Blyth to celebrate the village being named a Communities in Bloom provincial champion. The signs were made possible thanks to donations from local sponsors and business owners wanting to share the news of the village’s big win.

A developer who was planning an investment of “well over $10 million” in Seaforth said the closure of schools in the town would jeopardize the project, which, according to the developer, would create over 100 jobs.

Seaforth Mayor Dave Scott spoke with the Avon Maitland District School Board about the issue, telling board members that a school in a small town is one of a few key criteria to attract industry and closing schools in Seaforth would plunge that project into uncertainty.

The late Jane Bromley of RR1,

Belgrave was posthumously named the winner of the 1999 Leader of Distinction Award by the Ontario Case Manager’s Association. The award was handed out at the organization’s annual workshop, held in Toronto on Nov. 27.

Beth Earl of RR2, Listowel in Grey Township was named the 1999 Citizen of the Year Award winner for the Brussels area.

Earl was named the winner after years of being nominated for the award. She was honoured for her extensive work for her church, including her work with the choir and the Sunday school.

The Ontario Propane Association announced it would be handing out Steven Sparling Scholarships beginning in 2000. The scholarships would honour Blyth’s Sparling, who was named the first chair in the organization’s history when it was founded in 1996. He remained the only chair the association had ever known with his term set to expire at the end of the year.

Blyth Festival employees brought forward both good and bad news at the Festival’s annual meeting, saying that attendance had risen in 1999, but not enough to cover reductions in fundraising and support from the government.

December 9, 2010 David Riach, a Blyth Ward councillor for North Huron, was elected as the township’s deputyreeve. Riach eventually ran for the position unopposed. Councillor Brock Vodden nominated fellow Councillor Alma Conn for the position, but she declined. He also nominated himself for the position, but failed to find someone to second that motion, so it wasn’t considered.

The bell at Memorial Hall in Blyth was in the process of being

replaced, just in time for the holiday season. Crews began working to replace the bell on Dec. 1.

Chris Corbett of Brussels won the Ontario Hockey Association’s Junior C Player of the Month Award for November as the captain of the Wingham Ironmen. Corbett was having no trouble finding the back of the net, as he was leading his team in scoring for the season.

After an information meeting at Memorial Hall in Blyth, both Blyth and Wingham were one step closer to establishing new Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) for their respective communities.

December 12, 2019 Hundreds of people flocked to Blyth for the Hometown Holiday Weekend, which included a Lighting of the Lights celebration and a Santa Claus parade down the village’s main street, among other activities.

Rolled out by the Blyth Community Betterment Group, the weekend was a runaway success according to Annie Sparling, one of the weekend’s organizers.

Over 400 teachers, support staff and supporters of the cause were in Blyth to strike in front of the office of Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson. While striking in front of Thompson’s office had become commonplace for local educators over the course of the year, this demonstration was by the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation, which had still not signed a new agreement with the provincial government.

The Hullett Central Public School Junior Boys’ volleyball team won the gold medal at the area’s regional tournament, held in Goderich. The team beat a school team from Goderich in the final game of the tournament to earn the top spot.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 5.

Other Views Doubters may slow solving crisis

A

s we prepare to mark the end of 2020, we find ourselves with few things we really want to remember and many we’d like to forget, but probably won’t.

In this year of witnessing crazy attributes of human attitudes it’s perhaps unsurprising that a major concern for the medical community is if, now that we finally have the vaccine we’ve been hoping for, enough people will get vaccinated to offer herd immunity.

On this, at least, there was good news last week. In an Ipsos/Radio-Canada poll of 3,000 people, 64 per cent said they would probably or certainly get vaccinated, while 16 per cent said they definitely would not.

It’s not that people aren’t still cautious.

Only 36 per cent said they’d get vaccinated as soon as possible. Another 38 per cent said they’d wait one or two months to make sure everything’s going well, and 15 per cent said they’d wait several months.

Similarly, in the U.S., in mid-November before the announcement of vaccine success, 58 per cent of the adults who were surveyed were willing to be vaccinated, up from 50 per cent in September but down from 66 per cent in June.

All this is, of course, before the anti-vaccination movement really gets active sowing doubts about the safety of the vaccine.

As someone who grew up in the 1950s, I find this opposition to science and vaccinations mystifying. Science was something that changed our lives. My old family doctor, Dr. William Victor Johnston, even named his memoire Before The Age of Miracles, about starting his family practice in the 1920s.

During his 40 years of practice his job saw the introduction of penicillin, X-rays, antibiotics and many other life-saving tools.

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk As a kid, we lived in fear of the polio virus, a plague that had been tormenting Ontario every summer since 1920, some years only producing a few dozen infections and other years surging to 2,500. That peak occurred in 1937 and left a constant reminder of its virulence for those of us in Lucknow through a friendly young man who was crippled on the verge of adulthood and spent the rest of his life repairing shoes and always supporting local sports teams.

So when word spread through the media in 1957 that Dr. Jonas Salk had invented a vaccine for the virus, there was little hesitancy to be vaccinated. When the Ontario government held mass vaccination clinics to protect the population as quickly as possible, people lined up. By 1963 polio had virtually disappeared.

The other fearsome killer, this time usually of adults, was tuberculosis (TB). Year after year some people died while others’ breathing was badly damaged. Special sanitoriums were set up where people could live in clean, dry air.

But things were changing. In Ontario, all milk sold after 1937 was required to be pasteurized to kill off the bacteria that sometimes jumped between the species in milk to cause TB. After the Second World War with the widespread availability of antibiotics among the general population, it was learned that antibiotics could kill the bacteria.

Now it was important to search out as many people with TB as possible. In the late 1950s, the provincial government built special vans with X-ray machines and sent them to tour communities to mass-X-ray the population. I was young and naive and there may have been protests but I don’t remember them. I mostly remember the relief that another plague was about to be wiped out.

There probably were objectors – there usually are, dating way back to 1721 when inoculations for smallpox were introduced in Britain and the U.S. (leaders had learned the technique in Turkey).

And, as usual, church leaders who see the world through different eyes resisted, finding Bible passages to support their views.

In Boston, the inoculation program was led

by Rev. Cotton Mather. Across the ocean in London, the anti-inoculation campaign was led by Rev. Edmund Massey, whose sermons were so popular they were reprinted on flyers.

In a 1722 sermon entitled “The Dangerous and Sinful Practice of Inoculation”, Massey argued that diseases are sent by God to punish sin and that any attempt to prevent smallpox via inoculation is a “diabolical operation”.

Today the campaign against vaccination is apt to be spearheaded by a Hollywood celebrity warning parents they’re endangering their children by having them vaccinated against childhood diseases like measles and mumps.

Well I won’t be listening to the critics. Sign me up for the earliest date I can get the shot. I can hardly wait to get back inside a theatre, to go to a ball game, to attend community events or a community barbecue. I’ll risk a rare chance something might go wrong for a good chance to return to normal.

Not exactly the Grinch this year hile we here at The Citizen know there are some misguided souls who think the COVID-19 pandemic is exaggerated or (in some really special cases) made up, the simple fact is there is evidence everywhere you look and it’s about time we start recognizing the hard work that’s going on at the top levels to combat it.

Whether it’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his efforts to not only help the people of Canada but the individual provinces, as well as his admonishment of people not following the rules, or Ontario Premier Doug Ford who, at the start of the pandemic, was doing a great job of trying to get the province through this unprecedented time, our leaders have proven themselves capable.

And how have we responded to the incredible efforts put forward by not only our leaders, but our front-line workers, first responders and essential workers? Well, we’ve not kept the faith, that’s for sure. As a matter of fact, we’ve gotten to the point that provincial leaders are restricting Christmas and they’re not happy about it.

While other leaders have talked about the future of Christmas, now 14 days out, it fell to Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister to call a spade a spade and not only say that Christmas wasn’t happening, but he was the one to make that unpopular remark.

“I’m the guy who’s stealing Christmas to keep you safe because you need to do this now,” he announced last week.

Pallister was just full of great remarks, like “If you don’t think that COVID is real right now, you’re an idiot,” but let's focus on what he said about Christmas, not just because of how important it is but because of the specific language he used to say it.

Pallister, likely intentionally, equated himself with the Grinch, who, in Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday tale, stole the material aspects

W

Denny Scott Denny’s Den of Christmas from Whoville only to find out that the celebration continued without it. It made for a great headline and soundbite, but if you consider the outcome of the original story, the analogy may not have been great.

Or who knows, he may know that many people are incredibly self-centred and stupid, which means his analogy hits the nail on the head: He is stealing Christmas, in a way, by encouraging people to do the smart thing and celebrate at a distance, but some irresponsible, lazy or downright idiotic people may just go right on spreading the disease by visiting friends and family over the holidays.

While that was interesting, the most interesting part of the statement that I noticed was how Pallister was talking to the people of Manitoba like they were unruly children who couldn’t be trusted.

He didn’t say he was stealing Christmas because it was the wise decision or because he was being directed to by medical professionals, he said he was doing it to keep “you [the people of Manitoba] safe because you need to do this now.”

Four or five years ago, before I became a parent, I may not have recognized the tone (or worse, felt immediately compelled to argue with it because it sounded like it was coming from my parents) but now I see it and hear it as what it is: someone taking responsibility for a person or group of people who are unable or unwilling to be responsible for themselves.

Now I hear myself in that tone of voice, telling my daughter Mary Jane she can’t use her

rocking horse to climb up on the counter or explaining to her why chocolate isn’t a breakfast food. Now I hear myself trying to explain to a four-year-old (who, by the way, understands the COVID-19 pandemic and its dangers better than some mature, supposedly responsible adults I’ve heard talk about it) why something has to be the way it is because otherwise, she may hurt herself.

The recognition of that, of a politician having to treat an entire province like children jumping on the bed and inviting disaster, was pretty disappointing. Why? Well because I’m a huge science fiction fan.

Games, movies, books, whatever is sci-fi, I’m into, except for movies and books about zombies. Why? Because I always felt they were the most unrealistic science fiction trope.

We’re talking about, essentially, a virus transferred by bite. I always figured that, if zombies were real, people would be smart and avoid them and governments would find a way to quarantine them. I thought that way until about six months ago when the first people started dissenting, en masse, from the rules that are supposed to keep us safe from COVID-19. Now I know that if there is ever a zombie apocalypse, there will be a wave of people claiming it’s fake news as they’re turned into the living dead while and another group of people arguing for their rights as the moaning, shambling undead overtake them.

When our politicians have to start berating us because we’re treating wearing a mask like staying away from the cookie jar, we’re doing something wrong as a society. When we’re relying on our governments to make us act in the best interests of each other, something’s gone amiss. Heck, when we’re relying on our governments to make us act in our best interests, everything’s gone amiss. Let’s do a bit better folks.

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

You’re no expert

G

enerations of people have staked their futures on the words of experts in one field or another. For hundreds of years people have looked to those smarter than them for advice, help and guidance. Where have those days gone and why are so many of us ready to abandon those smarter than us?

Just the other day, I was reading a parenting book and I reached the ever-controversial topic of vaccines. The author detailed medical statistics and facts, but then noted that some “high-profile” celebrities had joined the antivaccination train citing debunked and reckless research as their proof. The author simply stated that parents should consider the medical qualifications of these people before staking the lives of their children on their opinions.

A simple statement, yet one that provokes plenty of division in today’s world – listen to those who know more than you and make decisions based on facts from those who know.

Maybe celebrity endorsements started this whole trend. You can throw facts and numbers at people until you’re blue in the face, but in the end, if Beyonce says one can of pop is better than another, who am I to argue?

This pandemic has really drawn out the worst in some people. Here at The Citizen, we’ve received correspondence from readers who have assured us there is no pandemic or that we need to move forward with herd immunity. Every letter we’ve received on this has been accompanied by the smug suggestion that, if we did our research, we’d know this.

This is where research hits a fork in the road.

Journalists like myself and most other folks think of research and go to what I described above: seeking out an expert opinion and making decisions based on facts, regardless of convenience. Now, however, in the era of the internet and experts-for-hire, some hit the reset button when they find inconvenient facts and seek out those who agree with them, validating their own thoughts in an “echo chamber” that refuses to tell you you’re wrong.

At a time when we have an overwhelming majority of medical experts, public health officials and epidemiologists telling us one thing, those tired of being told to wear a mask and the government’s public health measures are now seeking facts that fit their narrative, trusting their lives – and, more importantly, the lives of their friends and neighbours – to crackpot quasi-professionals and debunked science. But, because it tells them what they want to hear or it aligns with their absurd religious beliefs, they believe this nonsense and then tell people like me to do my research.

Just the other day, Mark Donnelly spoke to thousands on the “tyranny” of government restrictions. If you’re wondering why you haven’t heard of Donnelly, the office he holds or the university where he conducts his research, it’s because he sings the national anthem for the Vancouver Canucks (well, he used to). Wholly unqualified to speak on matters of medicine or infectious diseases, Donnelly is another person who’s being held up by the anti-mask crowd as a hero, not for his smarts, but for standing up to “The Man”.

That’s how an idiot with a barbecue stand can become a hero during a pandemic and how the people who stock shelves and pump gas feel qualified to hand out medical advice.

In journalism school, we were taught that we didn’t need to be experts, we just needed to find experts for stories. Many in Canada and right here in our communities would be well served to heed that advice, looking to qualified individuals instead of bending the narrative and trying to find that person in the mirror.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Brussels Christmas Experience impresses A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231 As we move through the days of December, emotions are busy

changing. Time with a child by FaceTime or masked, brings joy and happiness at the moment, then melancholy pops in as you remember our reality when their sweet faces are gone. Anticipation and hope comes as you ponder ways to celebrate with family not in attendance. Peace arrives when you think of the safety measures taken to keep us healthy. Sadness surfaces when you look to the past years of Advent fun. We are human, we feel life, acknowledge what’s

happening, then let the emotions roll.

Fun was the word as we enjoyed the festive light in Brussels on Saturday evening. Everyone saw the need to celebrate our community and put lights out to tell the world they care. A string of lights, a deer alone, an angel, a wreath, a snowman, trees alight, houses and barns in silhouette, multiple lights in many colours were a joy to observe as vehicles did a calm drive past. Most streets were part of the show and some had almost full

participation. It was lovely. The lights on the poles on Turnberry Street showed off the store windows so well.

The conservation area was outstanding in the number of lights in the trees, a fairyland filled with anticipation for things to come. The reason for this season was shown by families of the United Church, who shared the space under the awning of the mill with a dog, some sheep and their shepherds. Straw, angels, wisemen and the manger, in waiting, protected by very sweet Mary and Joseph, were all on display. We all see history with our own mind’s eye and for many, stories of their experience as part of a nativity scene when they were a child, were shared.

So the Brussels Christmas Experience was a very good thing; a time to review the past and look forward to COVID-19-free Decembers to come. So, thanks to all the folks who made this happen; another idea that with the right folks working together, proved to be a success.

We’ve adopted and adapted to new ways as we live in this time of pandemic. Living and working with technology is one of the big steps that has moved us faster than regular adapting would have taken. As the seriousness of this new virus is accepted, and meeting is a danger, new ways to meet, chat, do business and connect are now common. Like

all new things, the first times are uncomfortable, new thoughts and skills are required and then it gets better. So as the COVID-19 numbers remain high and a year-end is coming, plans are getting set to get/stay connected to all the folks who are part of our life. As we learn to handle technology I remind the grand-girls that they didn’t make perfect cookies the first time or two and then they give me a questionable smile.

Be kind, be safe.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner

The reason for the season The Brussels Christmas Experience, held on Dec. 5, featured all sorts of unique experiences to get the community in the spirit for the coming holidays. Above, members of the Brussels United Church performed a living nativity scene at the Logan’s Mill in Brussels. The event also included distanced visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Richmond Square and a colouring contest. (John Stephenson photo)

At the Branch

‘Ace’ jackpot nearing $11,000

By Jo-Ann McDonald The Brussels Legion Branch has had a good week and appreciates all the calls for the turkey supper. We are pleased to report it was sold out as of last Sunday. The committee has been busy with the planning and getting all the necessary things – shopping, shopping and more shopping. There was more preparation work accomplished on Sunday. A good crew was on hand to prepare the tangy coleslaw so it can marinate. It takes many hands to prepare a turkey dinner for a crowd and with the takeout format there is a little extra planning and work involved.

We ask those coming to pick up meals to enter the Legion property from the back laneway off Elizabeth Street and follow the lane to the side door. You will be greeted, your payment taken and your meals given to you. You have been given a time slot to pick up your meals so try and stay within your time. We thank you for your attendance and co-operation in advance.

It has been officially announced that the youth program for public speaking has been cancelled for 2021. It has been a wonderful event for children to learn how to prepare a speech and then stand in front of a crowd and deliver it, building self

confidence at a young age. Just another thing the pandemic has cancelled.

The Catch the Ace draw was held on Friday evening. The winning name was Dale Chesher who won $333. She chose envelope number

43 and the seven of spades was revealed. The jackpot continues to grow. The estimated jackpot for draw 29 could be $11,000. What a nice Christmas present that would be. Get your tickets today for the Friday night draw.

Neews depends endss on facts. ts. Whe Where are you our facts ts coming com ng from? ro

Babies of the Year

Winning Ticket: Dale Chesher $333 Envelope #43 found the 7 of Spades Estimated jackpot for December 11 is $11,000

2020 Don’t miss your chance for an authentic newspaper clipping for your child’s scrapbook

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 7.

Blyth group gets permission for Dec. 31 fireworks

By Denny Scott The Citizen

North Huron Township Council has given the Blyth Community Betterment Group (BCBG) the goahead to host a drive-in family fireworks event at the Blyth Campground on New Year’s Eve, despite some initial concerns.

Director of Recreation and Community Services Vicky Luttenberger explained that, in

researching the request, she found that the township’s certified fireworks supervisor’s certification had lapsed and staff had recommended the BCBG find another individual to work on the event. Since then, however, Lutteberger said that the supervisor, Fire Department of North Huron Deputy-Chief Chad Kregar, has taken steps to renew his certification.

“The fireworks supervisor has

submitted the renewal for certification and provided proof it’s paid for,” she said. “Due to COVID19, we’re not sure how soon the paperwork will go through, but we’re willing to go by the fact that he has submitted for that.”

Luttenberger said the concerns were further assuaged by a letter from North Huron Fire Chief Marty Bedard, who said he had no concerns with the event.

“At this point, there are no

Hot meal on a cold night The Blyth Lions Club hosted a drive-through pork chop dinner on Saturday night, welcoming residents to Blyth Lions Park to pick up their meals and bring them home to enjoy at their own dining room tables. Lions were busy in the pavilion grilling, like Chris Lee, left, and Ken Stewart, right, as other volunteers were out in the park, managing those picking up their dinners. (John Stephenson photo)

Highway 25. The event will be ticketed, according to the document, requiring people to register ahead of time.

concerns as long as [the BCBG follows] all the other criteria that’s outlined in the report,” Luttenberger said, referring to following not only fireworks safety protocols laid out by the township but also COVID-19 pandemic regulations.

Councillor Kevin Falconer espoused the event, saying it would be a “true family” moment for many and that the community is looking forward to sending off 2020.

Deputy-Reeve Trevor Seip was concerned about the event, which calls for families to attend in their vehicles, but said those fears were mitigated by the fact that Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) had been involved in the planning.

Luttenberger said HPPH is looking at the event differently from other events as the “audience” will be in their vehicles and only the volunteers running the event and making sure people stay in their vehicles will be counted towards the capacity.

Council supported the BCBG’s request.

The event is set to start at 7 p.m. and run for 30 minutes and, according to the proposal from the group, will follow strict regulations, including directing cars to enter through the northern entry to the campground then exit on to

NEWS FROM BLYTH Let us Wash Your Winter Coats Blyth Laundromat 191 Westmoreland St., Blyth 519-523-9687

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Poore family offered sympathies From Marilyn’s Desk

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

Sympathy is extended to the family of Dick Poore, who passed

away on Dec. 6. Dick was a former bank manager at the CIBC in Blyth.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his daughters Gayle and Elaine and family.

Happy birthday to Elaine Snell and John McDowell who celebrate Dec. 10 and Bill Bromley, Goderich, Dec. 15. Happy birthday everyone.

This year the Edgar family’s Christmas celebration was very different from other years. Instead of gathering at Blyth United Church,

some of the members did a drive-by and had a physicallydistanced visit with cousins in the area.

We will hope for better conditions next year so that we will all get together to celebrate.

Don’t forget to call a friend or neighbour and wish them Merry Christmas. Please check on that elderly neighbour and say, hi, for the days are long and dark at this time of year.

Stay safe and have a good week.

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Yard fire The Fire Department of North Huron’s Blyth hall responded to a fire on King Street in Blyth late last month and quickly put out a brush fire that had started. (Denny Scott photo)

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Hulley family parade set to tour Londesborough PEOPLE AROUND LONDESBORO

By BRENDA RADFORD Call 523-4296

Alice Van Miltenburg, young daughter of Jeff and Emily [Allen] Van Miltenburg, began her faith journey on Sunday, Dec. 6. Alice was baptized by Minister Susan McIlveen at Londesborough United Church with members of the congregation and proud family members as witnesses. Welcome, Alice, to the family of God! What a pleasant occasion in the midst of the

unpleasantness of COVID-19; a sign that life continues normally in many ways.

Chairperson of Londesborough United’s Official Board Kittie MacGregor introduced Alice and her parents to the congregation and UCW President Marie Bergsma gave the young family a Baptism candle and child’s Bible to mark the event.

Reverse the narrative The annual Clinton Santa Claus parade was reversed this year with floats and installations set up as stationary attractions at the Central Huron Community Complex while families took in the sights from their cars. Above, NJS Design and the Backyard Flower Shop wished everyone a Merry Christmas with their entry into the parade on Dec. 4. (John Stephenson photo)

Mark holidays with ‘Huron Waves’ Celebrate the Season with Huron Waves, a music program featuring artists and sites from across Huron County. It is set for simulcast on local cable stations and the internet on Sunday, Dec. 13. There will also be repeated, free, follow-up showings on the Huron Waves Music Festival YouTube channel, available until Dec. 31.

“This will be a unique step for Huron Waves and definitely our way of beating the virus that forced cancellations of our programming throughout 2020! The musical arts will prevail in Huron County,” said John Miller, the Festival’s Artistic Director.

The Huron Waves Music Festival’s virtual program comes after its planned premiere season was postponed and then cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organizers have instead created a one-hour program narrated by award-winning actor Graham Greene who will lead the audience through five creative segments, featuring Wingham-born cellist Thomas Beard performing at Hensall’s Iceculture; ballerina Antonella Martinelli, a member of the National Ballet of Canada Corps de Ballet, dancing in the family’s heritage barn in Hensall; The Hussey Family singing from

Goderich’s Courthouse Park and joined virtually by the Newfoundland Deaf Choir from St. John’s; Goderich-born soprano Christina Bell and Wingham pianist Andrea Grant performing holiday favourites in a private home near St. Joseph; plus The Sunset Drummers, joined by youth dancers from southwestern Ontario First Nations including the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, drumming and dancing down the sun on Lake Huron’s beach.

“These five segments, with the addition of seasonal photographs by Bonnie Sitter, will be a happy holiday experience for 2020 and, who knows, perhaps even the beginning of a new Huron Waves tradition in programming methods,” Miller said.

On Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m., the program will air on Hay Communications Cable: Channel 1, on HuronTel Telecommunications Cable: Channel 1, on Facebook at facebook.com/hurontowavesmusic festival, on YouTube Channel Huron Waves Music Festival, and on huronwavesmusicfestival.ca.

In addition to the simulcast on Dec. 13, the program will be continuously available on huronwavesmusicfestival.ca and on YouTube Channel Huron Waves

Music Festival until the end of the year.

Produced by FauxPop Media of Goderich, Celebrate the Season with Huron Waves is free to the public thanks to the generous support of its sponsors: Celebrate Ontario, White Squirrel Golf Club and Restaurant, Huron County Cultural Services and Bruce Power. Private donations are welcomed to help with the costs of such an innovative initiative.

Huron Waves Music Festival has a mandate to showcase the best of Canadian and visiting international artists at an annual springtime music festival in our region. Huron Waves’ 2020 festival was originally scheduled for the first two weekends of May, but emergency measures initiated to flatten the curve of the COVID-19 pandemic, twice delayed the festival. Organizers hope to bring forward a full season of music in spring, 2021.

Take a trip down memory lane with The Citizen’s #ThrowbackThursday albums on Facebook.

McIlveen lit the second Advent candle that morning, the candle of peace. Her message was titled “Peace Anyone?” The supporting scripture reading was Mark 1:1-8.

Tom Nott and his partner, Christine, are the new caretakers of Londesborough United. I learned, and now pass on to readers, the news that the couple resides in the apartment building on the corner across from the church. I’ve lost track of the residents of that building since we stopped handling village mail. Now I can welcome them into the village and thank them for taking on this task.

Another interesting village note to pass on is that the Hulley family is planning to tour the village on Saturday evening. They have decided to decorate some of their machinery and trip around the village and add some cheer in this time of isolation. They invite you to join them as they trip past your home.

The Christmas evening held in recent years at Nature’s Nest can’t happen this year because of COVID19 but this new idea will give villagers a chance to check out everyone’s decorations and wave at their neighbours under a controlled situation. It seems this year homeowners are making extra efforts to decorate their homes in an attempt to bring some extra encouragement and light to the life of others.

So bundle up, take your children, wear a Santa hat, decorate your bike or stroller, dress up your dog, etc. and take a stroll or follow along in a vehicle. The Hulleys will be leaving Hullett Central Public School at 7 p.m. You can join at any point as they travel around. It could be a pleasant thing to do and get the family out of the house.

Another sign, folks are decorating more and earlier this year is that the Londesborough Lions Club have sold out their Christmas trees already and it is early December.

Christmas is one of the most celebrated festivals in the world. The Bishop of Rome in 137 AD first commemorated the birth of Jesus with a December feast. Julius I selected Dec. 25 as the observance day in 350 AD. However, celebrations as we know them are not that old. l oca pL Sho romo P

Deadline December 11

The early colonies of the United States did not celebrate Christmas. It was considered illegal to celebrate just over 100 years ago in parts of New England. Connecticut even had a law forbidding the making of mince pies. It is expected these laws were sometimes ignored.

Russia banned Christmas celebrations between 1917 and 1992. Now the Russian Christians have a night mass after enjoying a Christmas Eve meal called the Holy Supper. This meal has 12 foods to symbolize the 12 apostles. Some of the meals include Christ with a 13th food. The foods include no meat.

Just a little fact to consider while you miss enjoying the meals of this season with friends and family.

Make a favourite meal anyway and reminisce while you enjoy it with the others living in your bubble.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 9.

Huron East to conduct ambulance location research

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron East Council doesn’t necessarily see eye-to-eye with Huron County on the potential new location of an ambulance station in Brussels and will be conducting further research of its own.

Council discussed the issue at its Dec. 1 meeting, which was held virtually via Zoom.

Chief Administrative Officer Brad Knight presented a report to council, recommending that Huron East staff

investigate further options for a grant application, bringing a report to council for its Dec. 15 meeting.

The situation has arisen after years of stationing Huron County paramedics and an ambulance at Huronlea Home for the Aged.

However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ambulance station was relocated to the Brussels fire hall, so paramedics could use the hall’s meeting room, kitchen and washroom facilities – which they weren’t able to do at Huronlea during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Knight told council that Huron County Council had suggested formalizing that agreement with a monthly $300 lease at the hall.

Huron County Engineer Steve Lund and Chief of Emergency Services Jeff Horseman then recommended the potential expansion of the hall to accommodate the ambulance station, utilizing Investing in Canada Plan (ICIP) funding from the COVID Resilience Infrastructure Stream, to fund a potential expansion of the hall.

Christmas celebrated in Brussels

Knight, however, was not so sure this was the right course of action, telling councillors that if expansion at the hall was going to be considered, it should be for the fire department, rather than the county’s paramedics.

“The discussions [between Huron East, Lund and Horseman] also touched on the concept of future needs of EMS [Emergency Medical Services] in Brussels, assuming that the previous arrangements at Huronlea would be a thing of the past. Ambulance locations/facilities are a county function and the following comments are not intended to prejudice any future county discussions, but to simply make council aware of a concept to lead in discussion on the ICIP – COVID Stream funding. The discussion with Mr. Lund and Mr. Horseman occurred before the grant announcement,” Knight said in his report to council.

“We discussed if the municipality would entertain an ambulance post either as a separate building or an addition to the Brussels fire hall. It is generally acknowledged that a base may be considered in the future in Seaforth, but maintaining a strategic location in the Brussels area may be desirable for the east side of the county. If an expansion of the Brussels fire hall was being considered for EMS, the municipality may wish to consider an additional bay for the Brussels fire hall, which was originally constructed in 1994. At that time, the Brussels fire hall serviced Brussels and small areas of Morris and Grey [Townships].”

Knight said the municipality’s funding allocation under the stream is just under $13,000 and applications have to be submitted by Dec. 21.

Projects, he said, are being considered in four categories: Retrofits, repairs and upgrades to municipal buildings, health infrastructure and schools; COVID19 resilience infrastructure; active

transportation or disaster mitigation.

Knight also noted that because Morris-Turnberry has become a part-owner of the Brussels division of the Huron East Fire Department, that council would have to be on board with any joint application as well.

“Referring back to the Brussels EMS concept, a strong grant application could have been developed on the concept of moving an EMS base from a vulnerable population (long-term care home) to an existing location with a building retrofit and expansion. It could also be considered as a joint application (Morris-Turnberry fire agreement) along with the involvement of another level of government (Huron County EMS),” Knight said in his report to council.

“If the EMS relocation concept is not available at this time, other projects can be considered, but at the present time it doesn’t appear that we have any projects that are planned that fit well within the criteria to give us a ‘strong’ application. Several municipalities that we have spoken to are having discussions about projects which appear to be ‘spending money to obtain grant funding.’ The DeputyMayor [Bob Fisher] has submitted a number of ideas, but I respectfully comment that several suggestions may involve a significant amount of planning with limited expenditures and would provide limited value for a competitive-based approach.”

Council approved Knight’s recommendation and will revisit the issue at its Dec. 15 meeting.

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Sign of the season The Brussels Christmas Experience hosted over the weekend involved plenty of lights around the community as well as a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus in downtown Brussels and a living nativity scene at Logan’s Mill. (John Stephenson photo)

PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570 Last week gave us a preview of the winter weather ahead. Monday was wet and then the snow moved in Monday night and created slippery roads that cancelled buses.

We had better weather for the rest of the week, especially for Saturday and the Brussels Christmas Experience. There were lots of decorated homes and businesses and the conservation area was very pretty. The live nativity scene at the Mill was well attended and Mr. and Mrs. Claus waved at many cars as they cruised by at Richmond Square. It certainly was a different way to celebrate the holiday season.

Still looking for that gift? I heard some interesting ideas over the last couple of weeks and thought I would share. For the family that has everything, how about a certificate for a family photo shoot. How about

a full course meal delivered once a month to share together or just for them.

COVID-19 may put gatherings off for a while, but we hope 2021 will not be as bad as 2020. Baking is not high on some young folks’ lists or, maybe they just don’t have time, so maybe gift some baked goods, pies or school treats every week or month. The pandemic has created more time to be at home with children, so instead of electronics, give the good old-fashioned games like crokinole or tabletop hockey. I can remember playing these games for hours growing up. Outside activities are great for kids for the fresh air and exercise; maybe give cross-country skis for one and all.

Our social world has become smaller, so we should take this time to build our family time.

Last week was the second week of deer hunting for our area. Hunters seemed few and far between and I did not see many on my daily drive.

They certainly did not get all the deer, as we had them grazing out in our yard Friday evening. Maybe next year.

It was birthday party time for some of our family on the weekend. Rick and granddaughter Brea share the same birthday. We shared spaghetti dinner to celebrate the occasion and

joined the rest of the family online.

Celebrating birthdays this past week were Mary Bernard, Greg Bowers, Ron Godkin, Pat Langlois, Devin Bachert, Rick McDonald, Jeff Robinson, Brea McDonald, Mark Nolan, Mike Nolan, Liz Roth, Lorraine Blake, Aleah Haggitt, Glenda Morrison, MacKenzie Gulutzen, Darian Fritz, Gary Ritchie and Brook Beuerman. Happy birthday to all.

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PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Morris-Turnberry Council balks at $90,000 plan

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Morris-Turnberry Council has deferred a proposal to set aside $10,000 to contribute to a community safety and well-being plan in 2021.

The document is required as a result of amendments to the the Police Services Act, which came into effect Jan. 1, 2019.

In a report to council by DeputyClerk Kim Johnston at council’s Dec. 1 meeting, she said that the Huron County Community Safety and Well-Being Working Group, which was established last fall to address the issue, has approached the United Way Perth-Huron’s Social Research and Planning Council to tackle the issue. The cost of the plan, according to Johnston’s report, will be $90,000 split between

the county’s nine participating municipalities.

The municipality had already set aside $2,000 for the project in its 2020 budget, however the plan was deferred due to COVID-19. To cover the contribution, Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Hallam suggested putting the $2,000 into a reserve and adding $8,000 to the 2021 budget.

The price, however, had some

council members question the value of the report.

“This is $90,000 for a report to the government,” Councillor Jim Nelemans said. “It seems ridiculous.

We’re not sure how [in-depth] this report is going to be.”

Mayor Jamie Heffer agreed, saying it “seems like an awful lot of money to put a plan in place.”

Nelemans then went on to question if there wasn’t a single staff member in Huron County who could handle the issue.

“It seems we have to hire someone from outside of the municipality for these reports,” he said. “It’s too bad there is no one at the county who could do it.”

Hallam said he didn’t believe there was a Huron County staff member who could facilitate the creation of the plan.

Deputy-Mayor Sharen Zinn asked where the additional $8,000 would come from, and Hallam said he

hadn’t had time to source the funds yet, saying it would just be part of the budget deliberations.

Nelemans then said council shouldn’t approve it in hopes that other municipal councils agree, which could encourage the working group to find another option instead of spending $90,000 “for a report that people may not read.”

Hallam said that, before COVID19, there was a deadline for the document of Jan. 1, 2021, but that deadline had been removed as a result of the pandemic and no new deadline had been set.

“We could keep this for information and see how other council discussions went to see if others have similar reservations,” Hallam said.

Council directed Hallam to bring information back to council about how other municipal councils decided to proceed and deferred any decision on the issue.

News Media Canada is a passion ssionate ad dvocate for the news industry. We support our mem mber m publications in their pursuit of quality jo ournalism nalism.

We believe that when society has facts they can trust, better decisions will be made.

Colourful creations With nothing but some food colouring, water and her imagination, Iris Pipe turned the snowy landscape at her home into a rainbow-inspired wonderland. (Photo submitted)

newsmediacanada.ca

M-T defers funding plan

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Morris-Turnberry Council is waiting to make a decision on funding available through the COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.

The stream allows municipalities to apply for up to $100,000 to help with capital work related to COVID19 pandemic controls. Senior staff, however, reported during council’s Dec. 1 meeting that there weren’t any projects the municipality could pursue on its own that would be worth utilizing the funding.

“The monies we could apply for as a grant are to do some sort of tangible, capital work,” Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Hallam said. “There were thoughts of making additions to the office, like a drop box… though there’s nothing we’d suggest if the funding wasn’t available.”

Hallam said staff wondered if projects that otherwise wouldn’t be tackled would be worthy of pursuing.

Huron East may be pursuing a project that Morris-Turnberry could contribute to, however, Hallam said.

He said in speaking to his counterpart at Huron East, Chief Administrative Officer Brad Knight, there was discussion of relocating the ambulance post in Brussels.

The post is normally stationed at Huronlea Home for the Aged and Highland Apartments, however, due to COVID-19, the ambulance and first responders were moved to the Huron East Fire Department’s Brussels hall.

“We don’t know what things will look like going forward or in the long run,” Hallam said. “The idea was that Huron East and MorrisTurnberry could do a joint application and use the funding towards a new ambulance post at the fire station.”

Hallam said that, at this point, there wasn’t a staff recommendation, but that it would be investigated. More information would be available, Hallam said, after a Dec. 3 webinar, during which the funding stream would be further explained.

The one stumbling block, Hallam said, is that, as a mostly-rural municipality, Morris-Turnberry didn’t have timelines for the projects. Huron East, which falls under a different category, Hallam said, would need to have the project done by December of 2021.

“We would be looking to come up with a plan for the addition to the fire hall and having it completed within one year,” Hallam said, adding he would follow up with Knight regarding what Huron East Council, which met the same night, thought about the plan.

Montgomery Bus Lines has an immediate opening for a Shop Foreman. This is a hands-on role, responsible for the day-to-day maintenance activities of the Wingham shop. montgomerybuslines.ca/careers or call: 1-844-PWT-JOBS

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 11.

of a Local Christmas!

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PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 2020.

of a Local Christmas!

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Boost Immunity!

The Old Farmer’s 2021 Almanac This 229th edition aims once again to fulfill your expectations with its fun facts and forecasts.

Also includes news, novelties and a little nonsense to carry you through another year. $7.99

coldstorm $47

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Shop Local...Shop Seaforth Be safe...follow protocols Visit our town or shopseaforth.ca or the Shop Seaforth Facebook page!

Our ‘Downtown’ mechants are welcoming you!

THE NIGHT BEFORE A CANADIAN CHRISTMAS This illustrated storybook has fun putting a Canadian spin on the Night Before Christmas story, such as the fact Santa can’t come down the chimney because there’s smoke coming out of it. $19.95

Touchstone Therapies 625B Turnberry St., Brussels ON 226-889-5654 https://touchstonetherapies.ca

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GRANDMA’S CHRISTMAS WISHES Story time is family time. This book is special for every grandchild. A board book which creates Christmas cheer, introduces language patterns and rhyming and strengthens bonds and emotional security. $13.99

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 13.

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of a Local Christmas!

Check out www.coastalcoffee.ca for list of retailers and restaurants.

Your Dollar Goes Far When You Shop Near Books Make Great Gifts!

THAT FREEDOM MIGHT SURVIVE STORIES OF HURON COUNTY DURING THE SECOND WORLD WAR (Author David Yates)

From pacifism to war to peace and remembrance That Freedom Might Survive is a collection of fascinating stories covering Huron County’s vital contributions on land, air, sea and the homefront during the Second World War. $25.00 BETTER LATE THAN NEVER It’s back to the barn again for Dr. Dave, with the final installment in his best-selling Adventures of a Country Vet series. Set in the rural Kootenay region of British Columbia, Dave introduces readers to a diverse mix of the funniest, cheekiest, and sometimes just plain exasperating animals—and owners—you’ll probably ever read about. $23.95

LOVE YOU FOREVER (Board Book) A book both children and adults will enjoy - over and over again.

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RADAR AUTO PARTS "You will find it at CARQUEST" For all your automotive and sleigh needs, see the friendly folks at Radar for your Christmas gift ideas.

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PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

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l a c o l g n i p p Sho r u o y o t t f i g is a . y t i n u m m o c By buying local this holiday season, you’ll support small business owners, while helping keep jobs in our communities.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 15.

M-T insurance to rise by 16 per cent

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Whispering at a distance Emily, left, and Kinsley Baker visited Santa while physically distancing at the Cowboy Loft in Brussels during its annual Christmas sale late last month. (Photo submitted)

Morris-Turnberry Council approved a renewal for its insurance policy with an upset limit of 25 per cent over last year’s price, however some council members were not happy with the choice.

In a report to council at its Dec. 1 meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Hallam explained that there had been delays in getting a 2021 proposal from Marsh Canada, the municipality’s current insurance provider, but that he estimated there would be a 16 per cent increase over the 2020 costs of $49,542.

By estimating a 10 per cent increase to most policies and a 25 per cent increase to primary and umbrella liability costs, Hallam anticipated a maximum total cost of $57,623.

Deputy-Reeve Sharen Zinn said she felt that council had, for several years, been forced into this kind of decision and wanted more time to review insurance quotes, although

she understood that wouldn’t happen with the municipality’s current coverage ending Jan. 1, 2021.

Council directed Hallam to sign the renewal agreement provided the cost wasn’t over the 25 per cent upset limit, and to work towards new quotes for 2022 insurance coverage options. *** Morris-Turnberry Council approved a motion supporting conservation authorities which, according to reports from the groups, are being dealt a significant blow by the provincial government.

Councillor Kevin Freiburger, who represents Morris-Turnberry on the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority’s board said the government is reducing funding and creating a loophole for people who are denied permission to work on lands by conservation authorities.

The loophole will allow such applicants to “run to the minister for approval” Freiburger said.

Council passed a blanket motion to support conservation authorities in their fight against the changes.

Morris-Turnberry sets 2021 schedule, holiday hours

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Morris-Turnberry Council has set its 2021 meeting dates and determined when the municipal office will be closed during the Christmas holidays this year.

During council’s Dec. 1 meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Hallam explained the job of scheduling the 2021 council meetings was easier than previous years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We don’t have to juggle conferences as they’re all set to be virtual, with the exception of [the Association of Municipalities of Ontario annual conference], which is set for Aug. 15 and falls after our Aug. 10 meeting,” he said.

Next year’s Morris-Turnberry Council meetings are set as follows: • Jan. 12 • Jan. 13 (Special Budget Meeting at 9 a.m.)

• Feb. 2 • Feb. 16

• March 2 • March 16 • April 6 • April 20 • May 4 • May 18 • June 1 • June 15 • July 6 • July 20 • Aug. 10

• Sept. 7 • Sept. 21 • Oct. 5 • Oct. 19 • Nov. 2 • Nov. 16 • Dec. 7 • Dec. 21 During that same meeting, Council considered closing the municipal office completely from

noon on Dec. 24 to Jan. 4, inclusive.

While the office is currently closed to the general public, staff members have been hosting meetings in the office when necessary, Hallam said. During the closure period, however, staff will be sent home and work will cease for the holiday.

Council approved the closure and the schedule.

Season’s Greetings from the

Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation With your past support new patient beds, overhead bed tables and cabinets are now in every patient room at Seaforth Community Hospital.

You definitely put a smile on our faces. Thanks so much for making a difference.

COVID - 19 has challenged each and every one of us this year. The Seaforth Community Hospital continues to stand ready, to provide healthcare for those in need close to home.

During this challenging time your consideration of a caring gift this Holiday Season will further the essential healthcare at Seaforth Community Hospital.

Indoor recess Students at Hullett Central Public School faced some wet weather late last month which drove them indoors. Playing volleyball during recess are, from front to back, Tyler Boven, Braden Hummel and Ben Hubbard. (Denny Scott photo)

To make a donation: Mail cheque to: Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation 24 Centennial Dr. P.O.Box 99 Seaforth, ON, N0K 1W0 OR e-transfer to seaforth.foundation@hpha.ca

Stay safe and keep well.... https://www.hpha.ca/schfoundation

PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Classified Advertisements – RATES – 20 words or less only $7.00 + HST. Additional words 20¢ each + HST. 50¢ will be deducted if ad is paid in advance

DEADLINE 2 p.m. Monday in Brussels 4 p.m. Monday in Blyth Phone 519-523-4792 or 519-887-9114 e-mail: info@northhuron.on.ca

Articles for sale FOR SALE - 2003 YAMAHA Viper 700, reverse, low kms., service history, mature owner, always garaged, mint, $3,500. 519-5239570.

50-2p -------------------------------------------GERBERS FIREWOOD SERVING you for over 10 years. Your number one source of quality slabwood and bodywood. Delivery available. No Sunday calls. 519-656-2057, 519441-2085.

01-50p -------------------------------------------REPRINTS OF PHOTOS taken by Citizen photographers are available to purchase. All are in colour. 4x6 – $5.00, 5x7 – $6.00, 8x10 – $10.00. Phone to order 519523-4792 or 519-887-9114. tfn -------------------------------------------THE CITIZEN IS AVAILABLE TO purchase at these locations – Auburn Co-op, Belgrave Variety, Blyth Variety, Blyth Food Market, Blyth Ultramar, Brussels Foodland, Brussels Variety, Clinton Convenience, Clinton Foodland, Dean’s Valu-Mart in Wingham, Wingham Mini Mart, Seaforth Foodland, GT Mini Mart in Seaforth, Fincher’s in Goderich and The Citizen Blyth.

Coming events THE WINGHAM COLUMBUS Centre would like to invite you to the next Famous Fish Fry – Take-out Style! on Friday, Dec. 11 from noon to 7 p.m. Take-out $16 – Your choice of grilled or battered white fish or chicken fingers, baked potatoes or fries and a dinner roll. Add a salad for $1.50 and/or a tart for $2, all taxes are included. Orders must be made in advance, payment by cash, debit, credit card or etransfer to wc1@bellnet.ca Pick-up times will be scheduled. Also Lots of made fresh and then frozen TV-style dinners $8 each and homemade soups 6 x 500mL for $20 available.

Please call 519-357-1270 to order either. If no answer please leave a message and we will call back. 50-1 -------------------------------------------TAKE-OUT LASAGNA DINNER Friday, Dec. 18 at the BMG Community Centre, Brussels.

Hosted by the St. Ambrose CCW, 4 7 p.m. Lasagna, Caesar salad, bun and dessert. Available by ticket only.

Cost: $18. Please contact Andrea Van Nes at 519-887-6288.

49-2

Help wanted

In memoriam

Our GM dealership in Seaforth is growing and we are looking for a

Licensed Technician

SALLOWS. In loving memory of a Dear Mother and Friend Shirley Sallows who passed away December 14, 2019 at the age of 83.

– Gone but never forgotten by Rick and Bonnie and family. xo. 50-1p

Previous GM experience is an asset but not required.

We offer a competitive wage and benefits package.

Please send résumé to bevin@robinsonmc.com.”

Notice

Notice STOLEN

2 Christmas presents. 2 large hand-mined, ground and polished jade necklaces were stolen from Bayfield studio.

2 girls hand-picked these one-of-a-kind jade artworks as their one big present under the tree. It took years to make them.

Please return. $200.00 reward.

Citizen-To-Citizen “SWAP SHOP” ad MUNICIPALITY OF HURON EAST FINANCE DEPARTMENT Job Posting

Property Tax and Revenue Clerk The Municipality of Huron East is seeking applications from qualified persons for the Property Tax and Revenue Clerk position due to an upcoming retirement. Reporting to the Finance Manager/Treasurer, the Property Tax and Revenue Clerk position is responsible for all aspects of the Municipal taxation functions, including billing, collections, adjustments and responding to enquiries.

Qualifications: • Secondary school graduate with applicable College / University courses in business and / or accounting. Successful completion of the Municipal Tax Administration program will be considered an asset • Related work experience in a municipal environment, particularly Municipal Taxation, is a preference • Thorough knowledge of applicable legislation, acts, statutes and regulations • Excellent computer and records management skills • Ability to deal effectively, courteously, and tactfully with the general public • Well-developed oral communication skills, writing skills, and organizational skills with an attention to detail • Strong sense of confidentiality The salary range for this position is $24.73 to $28.66 hourly for 35 hours a week. The Municipality also offers a comprehensive benefits package.

A complete job description is available at www.huroneast.com.

Please submit your résumé and cover letter by 4:30pm on Friday, December 18, 2020: Municipality of Huron East Attn: Paula Michiels, CPA, CGA, Finance Manager-Treasurer 72 Main Street South, PO Box 610 Seaforth, Ontario, N0K 1W0 Email: pmichiels@huroneast.com This is an internal and external job posting.

“One person’s junk is another’s treasure”

Let us help you turn that junk into $$ ➨ Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster! ➨ The Citizen reserves the right to limit the number of items or ads per person.

Call 519-523-4792 or email: info@northhuron.on.ca FOR SALE – exercise bike, no seat; stand up on large foot pedals with upright handlebars, $150 firm.

519-525-1543.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – folding wall-mount tire rack, new, asking $30; water jug, 5 gallon, $8; small fire safe, $30; RV sewer hose support, telescopic to 10 feet, $20; ice maker, $50. 519-396-1188 or 519357-0817.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – table with fold-down sides, $20; new car booster seat, $20; potato bin, $15; 60L cooler with handle, on wheels, $20. 519396-1188 or 519-357-0817. 49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – Atlases of Perth 1879, Frontenac Lenox and Addington 1878, Elgin 1877, York 1878, Quebec Eastern Townships 1881, asking $100 each; Huron Atlas 1984, Perth Atlas 1982, $60 each; local history books Wawanosh, Morris, Grey, Turnberry plus others - $50 to $100 each. 519-527-0107.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - one large green dog cage, $25; one medium dog cage, $20, good condition. Call Wingham 519-357-2349.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – 28 bottle wine rack, $25; 30 bottle wine rack, $15; large suitcase, $15; white wicker basket, $5; 12" indoor round grill, $20.

519-396-1188.

49-3 ------------------------------------------

All word ads in The Citizen classifieds are put on our webpage at

www.huroncitizen.ca

FOR SALE – taupe-coloured leather sofa and matching chair in good condition, asking $200. 519357-3492.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – crocheted hanging towels, scrubbies, dish cloths, hats, baby sets and blankets, Barbie doll clothes and doll clothes. Call 519523-9274.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – blue/pink toddler coat, 30 lb. size, $5; snowsuit, 6 mo. size, $8; sleep sac 6-12 mo. size, $10; sleep sac 6-18 mo. size, $15; Graco playpen, $35. 519-3572768.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – Genuine Teeter inversion table, Model EP-970 Ltd., purchased in 2017 but hardly used.

Asking $400. 519-357-1315. 48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE – Bell Xpress Vu receivers Model 9241 high def. with PVR $75; two receivers Model 5900, $50 each; JVC 32" TV, works good, free; Stihl chainsaw 034 has two extra bars and four extra chains, works good, $200; barn exhaust fan, 24", 120V motor, runs good, $100. 519-523-4711. 48-3 ------------------------------------------

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 17.

Obituaries Holst, her parents-in-law Alvin and Ida Procter and brother-in-law Wayne Procter.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a celebration of Kathy’s life will be held when it is safe to do so.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the North Huron Foodshare or the Goderich-toGuelph Rail Trail would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com

KATHY PROCTER It is with great sadness that the family of Kathy Procter announces her passing after a very short battle with cancer. She died peacefully at her home on Dec. 2, 2020 with her family by her side. She was 64.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 43 years, Don Procter. She also leaves behind her children Kristi (Brandon) Anger, Tim (Parveen) Procter and Mike (April) Procter.

Kathy cherished her six beautiful grandchildren, Brielle, Kolton and Lukas Anger, Isaac Procter and Trinity and Lily Procter. Kathy will be lovingly remembered by her mother Joanna (Sauder Holst) Ropp, her two sisters, Ann (Lloyd) Fretz and Marlene (Don) Letkeman-Holst, sisters and brothers-in-law, Faye Procter, Doug and Deb Procter and Ken and Lila Procter, 10 nieces and nephews and their families, as well as numerous cousins. Kathy was predeceased by her father Delton

and William and his hunting buddy Chuck.

Dad was born on his father’s birthday in London, Ontario and was raised in Parkhill. He worked for CIBC for over 30 years, moving around Southwestern Ontario to various branches. While working in the Dresden branch, he met the love of his life. They settled in Kitchener where we were born. They moved to Hensall, Bryanston and finally put down permanent roots in Blyth where he was the bank manager for many years.

After he retired, he followed his passion for woodworking, building a

variety of items for people, including cabinetry for our house.

His biggest project was to turn the MCI highway coach into a well-used motorhome.

In his later years, Dad could be found out for coffee with the guys or snoozing in the big chair with his favourite felines, Peighton and Tigger. He also discovered cruising, through which he visited Alaska, sailed through the Panama Canal and explored the Caribbean.

Visitation was held at the Falconer Funeral Home, Blyth Chapel on Tuesday, Dec. 8. A private family funeral was held Dec. 9 from the

Hospitals receive funds

WILLIAM RICHARD “DICK” POORE William Richard “Dick” Poore passed away on Dec. 6, 2020. He was 82.

Dick was the much-loved father of Gayle Poore and Elaine and Jeff Bohnert and the cherished grandfather of Nicholas Bohnert. He is now reunited with his precious wife Grace. He will also be missed by his special little friends Elizabeth

The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) Foundation’s COVID-19 Community Hospital Fund granted $76,000 to the Listowel Wingham Hospitals Alliance as part of its COVID-19 relief initiative to support those on the frontline of this pandemic. The funds announced on Monday will be used to install video conferencing technology in accessible community rooms, provide additional camera units for telemedicine and offer portable telehealth conferencing equipment in patient rooms and exam rooms.

“This equipment will provide us with additional opportunities to provide virtual patient care along with specialist visits during the pandemic”, said Karl Ellis, Listowel Wingham Hospitals Alliance CEO.

“We are appreciative of the CMA Foundation’s visionary leadership in offering this funding to smaller hospitals across the country.”

The CMA Foundation announced the COVID-19 Community Hospital Fund as part of its commitment to provide COVID-19 relief. The $5 million fund supports hospitals across Canada with fewer than 100 beds to meet their evolving needs with activities, equipment and training that enhance staff wellness, improve access to care and help prepare for future pandemics.

“I am inspired every day by the dedication of physicians, health care providers and all hospital workers as they continue to confront the COVID-19 pandemic head-on,” says Allison Seymour CMA Continued on page 18

Falconer Funeral Home. The service will be available for live (or delayed) streaming on the funeral home’s website.

We wish you could be with us in person but hope you will join us this way to celebrate Dad’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation or to a charity of one’s choice. We appreciate all the care and compassion from the staff of the Clinton Public Hospital during his time spent with them.

Walk Ins Welcome SHEAR TALENT Hair Design & Tanning 45 West St., Goderich 519-524-6555

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PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Auburn Lions find new way to feed the masses

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Auburn Lions, in place of their bi-monthly fundraising breakfasts, are turning to prepackaged breakfasts for families as a means of supporting their community efforts.

Travis Teed of the Lions told The Citizen the club came up with the idea when looking to find a way to support itself.

“We can’t do our breakfasts, so we put it out to the members to put their heads to the pillows and think on how to raise money,” he said. “We had to find a way.”

The idea came from Lions Club member Bill Robinson and his wife who suggested packaging a breakfast including locally-sourced goods like sausages and a pancake mix.

“We got everything we could locally, and we sourced the flour for the pancake mix from Arva, and of course maple syrup from [Robinson’s Maple Products near

Auburn],” Teed said, adding the only thing that wasn’t locally grown was the coffee, which came from Coastal Coffee near Point Clark.

“We put it into a nice gift package.”

Teed said that the packages, which cost $45 and feed six, are completely made from recyclable materials.

Thus far, the uptake on the program has been “unbelievably good” he said.

“Some members didn’t know if it would take off,” Teed said. “We sold 115 in our first week or so. We want to encourage any and all orders we can because this will probably be our only fundraiser for the time being and the only way we can continue to support our community.”

Teed said the package contains everything needed except the eggs, and it’s all made from scratch, which is why it’s proven to be popular and appreciated by those who have picked up a package.

For more information, contact any member of the Lions or visit the Auburn Lions Club on Facebook.

COVID-19 support necessary: Seymour What a year It may be hard to believe, but this photo was taken just over nine months ago when the Auburn Lions hosted what would become their last breakfast of the year. Since then, the group has decided to sell pre-packaged, locally-sourced breakfasts as a fundraising opportunity according to member Travis Teed, right. (File photo)

Continued from page 17 CMA Foundation President. “We know these are extraordinary times that require extraordinary support.

From managing evolving health care needs to address changes in your community, to ensuring the proper equipment and training for your staff, our hope is that these funds will have a positive impact as you continue to

navigate the challenges of the pandemic.”

The CMA Foundation is the charitable arm of the Canadian Medical Association and provides impactful charitable giving that furthers excellence in health care.

To date, the foundation has committed more than $30 million in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Huron Chapel set to host ‘Journey to Bethlehem’

Lighting of the lights While the Blyth Festival, Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) and Blyth Community Betterment Group marked the lighting of the holiday lights in Blyth last week, the community also saw its stop lights at the downtown crosswalk turned on for the first time. (Denny Scott photo)

church elders had met on Monday to confirm it was safe to host the celebration. “The elders met and feel, with the precautions we’re taking and being outside, there shouldn’t be anything to worry about.”

Each station, Campbell said, is hosted by one or two families who will be performing a portion of the Christmas story, as well as a scripture reading. She said that volunteers of all ages have pitched in to make it a reality.

Campbell said 2020 has been a rough year and the church and its families wanted to offer something to the community to mark Christmas without forgetting the spirit of the celebration.

“We’re wanting, even for our own church, to bring the community out,” she said. “It’s been a weird year with everyone doing their own things, or sometimes nothing, because there’s not a lot of programs going on.”

While the event itself is going to be exciting to take in, Campbell said that even rehearsals for it have been a great thing to watch, saying it’s bringing participating families closer together.

Campbell said that, while the original idea was hers, the families in charge of each station are getting very creative making the stops their own.

The event is coming along at the right time, she said, as people need some joy and peace now more than ever.

“It’s going to be a difficult Christmas for some, so getting out will bring some love, joy and peace,” she said.

Those looking to take in the walking event can park on the street in front of the church, she said, and there is some parking in the lower parking lot for people with mobility issues or small children. The drive-

through event will be good for those looking to stay warm in their cars, she said, or who are worried about the pandemic.

For more information, visit Huron Chapel’s Facebook site.

Citizen

The

The Citizen The families of Huron Chapel Evangelical Missionary Church in Auburn are coming together to create a unique Christmas experience for their community with a physically-distanced celebration.

Called “A Journey to Bethlehem”, the event is set for Dec. 12 at the church and will see the upper

parking lot transformed into a walkable and drivable story of Christmas, according to organizer Ang Campbell.

The event will feature a “walkthrough” time from 6:30-7:30 p.m. and a drive-through period from 7:30-8 p.m. Visitors will move station to station to experience different parts of the Christmas story, Campbell said.

“The event is going ahead as planned,” she said, adding the

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 19.

Agriculture

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Brussels Livestock report

Calves, yearlings sell at steady prices Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending Dec. 4 were 1,784 cattle and 728 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday fed steers and heifers sold on a steady market. Choice steers and heifers sold $135 to $142 with sales to $145. Second-cut steers and heifers sold $125 to $135. Aged

and medium steers and heifers sold $105 to $126. Cows sold steady. On Thursday, veal, lambs, sheep and goats sold steady. On Friday, calves and yearlings sold on a strong active trade with steady prices.

Sidney B. Martin, Harriston, consigned seven head. One limousin steer weighed 1,540 lbs. and sold for

a price of $143.

There were 375 cows on offer.

Beef sold $65 to $80 with sales to $183; good holstein cows, $68 to $75 with sales to $79; medium holstein cows, $59 to $64; plain, $54 to $58.

Ballamore Farms Ltd. of Nova Scotia, consigned 13 head. One

Protection in place Recently, the Huron East/Seaforth Community Development Trust donated $10,000 to the Huron Community Family Health Team in order to beef up its supply of personal protective equipment, keeping everyone safe at the facility. From left: Heather Britton, Lead RPN; Kelly Buchanan, Executive Director of the Huron Community Family Health Team; Christie Little, Chair of the Huron East/Seaforth Community Development Trust and Joe Steffler, Director with the Huron East/Seaforth Community Development Trust. (Couresty photo)

black cow weighed 1,845 lbs. and sold for a price of $83.

There were 21 bulls selling $78.50 to $107.50. Wade Girdler of Elmwood, consigned three head.

One limousin bull weighed 2,005 lbs. and sold for a price of $105.

There were 140 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $145 to $190; good holsteins, $140 to $152 with sales to $154; SL heavy holsteins, $130 to $140; heavy holsteins, $110 to $132; medium holsteins, $125 to $135; plain holsteins, $80 to $115.

Grant Bergsma of Londesborough, consigned one head. One holstein steer averaged 690 lbs. and sold for a price of $151. Paul Pennington of Mildmay, consigned six head. One holstein steer weighed 735 lbs. and sold for a price of $148. Nelson Becker of Ayton, consigned five head. One holstein steer weighed 725 lbs. and sold for a price of $148.

Lambs under 50 lbs. sold $361 to $414; 50 - 64 lbs., $383 to $440; 65 - 79 lbs., $368 to $401; 80 - 94 lbs., $268 to $310; 95 - 110 lbs., $280 to $284.

Sheep sold $125 to $260.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $390; nannies, $150 to $230; kids: meat, $400 to $465; dairy, $300 to $395.

Andreas and Petra Aeberhardj of Neustadt, consigned 24 head.

Twelve lambs averaged 67 lbs. and sold for an average price of $410.

Liz Grase of Dublin, consigned three head. One lamb weighed 61 lbs. and sold for a price of $440.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $257.75 to $297; 400 499 lbs., $235 to $276; 500 - 599 lbs., $225 to $255; 600 - 699 lbs.,

bridges, strengthen connections and support the 200 commodities and agri-food stakeholders across our province.

Throughout the pandemic, our industry has been able to come together to tackle critical issues that have threatened the structure and wellbeing of our sector. Earlier this year, a freedom-of-information (FOI) request was filed asking for the names and farm business registration numbers of all farms in Ontario. The OFA, Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario and National Farmers Union – Ontario were able to collaborate on this issue and effectively mediate the situation, ensuring that the request was withdrawn.

When Bill 156, the Security from Trespass and Protecting Food Safety Act, 2019, was introduced, Ontario’s livestock and poultry commodity organizations, the food processing sector, and the OFA worked together to strongly support and advocate for the legislation to be passed.

On a national scale, the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, commodity organizations, and provincial organizations such as the

OFA have been advocating for changes to improve the AgriStability program to help manage production and market risks. The ongoing collaborative effort that agri-food organizations are taking has been well received at the recent FederalProvincial-Territorial Agriculture Ministers’ meeting.

The agri-food industry is diverse, with many organizations advocating for support. We are stronger when we can forge and strengthen partnerships and speak up for agriculture as one voice.

This year, the OFA has been able to collaborate with organizations to advocate for the industry and produce resources to help spread awareness or support individuals through various labour initiatives.

The OFA was able to work alongside Meat and Poultry Ontario and livestock representatives on a Meat and Poultry Growth Strategy, to launch a series of training videos through the Feeding Your Future initiative.

We have also been able to work with rural and municipal organizations to expand broadband Continued on page 22

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Work with industry the key to future success: Brekveld

By Peggy Brekveld, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Working together and collaborating with other organizations during the pandemic has been vital in keeping the agrifood sector strong and addressing the ongoing issues our industry continues to face. This year more than ever, our industry has come together as many voices with one message, to better support Ontario farmers.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) recognizes that as we navigate through a global pandemic, there are many competing issues, priorities and concerns that continue to take precedence throughout the province.

Many don’t realize that a strong domestic agri-food sector is the key to food security, economic recovery and growth.

When challenges arise, the agrifood industry has been able to come together as one to best support, not only Ontario farmers, but the provincial economy and families across the province. As Ontario’s largest general farm organization, the OFA has the ability to build

$203 to $227; 700 - 799 lbs., $193.75 to $203; 800 - 899 lbs., $189 to $195.50; 900 - 999 lbs., $190 to $195.50; 1,000 lbs. and over, $180 to $190.

Top quality stocker heifers, 400 499 lbs. sold $204 to $227; 500 - 599 lbs., $198.50 to $223.50; 600 - 699 lbs., $184 to $196; 700 - 799 lbs., $165.50 to $179; 800 - 899 lbs., $160.50 to $168; 900 lbs. and over, $152 to $163.

James Hoover of Wroxeter, consigned 15 head. Eight charolais steers averaged 1,083 lbs. and sold for an average price of $186.50.

Hehn Farms of Walkerton, consigned 32 head. Fifteen charolais heifers averaged 1,125 lbs. and sold for an average price of $152. Jim Gateman of Elmwood, consigned 11 head. Two charolais steers averaged 1,108 lbs. and sold for an average price of 180.50.

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PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

OFA expresses support for conservation authorities Ontario’s conservation authorities provide a watershed level planning perspective that transcends municipal borders, one that the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) supports and one that deserves support, not only from the province but also from municipalities.

“Agriculture and conservation authorities have a vested interest in the health and sustainability of our land and our waterways,” said OFA President Peggy Brekveld.

“Ensuring conservation authorities can adequately fulfill their roles and responsibilities is important in enabling farmers and landowners to be able to protect our most vital land and water resources.”

This is about the long-term planning for protecting and preserving our productive land and water resources. OFA is of the opinion that the proposed amendments to Schedule 6 will negatively impact a conservation authority’s role in watershed level

planning as well as their role in keeping development out of hazardous areas, such as flood plains, erodible beaches, etc.

That watershed-level planning perspective transcends not only municipal boundaries, but also the boundaries of unique features, such as the Oak Ridges Moraine, as well as protected spaces like the Greenbelt Plan area. Development activities occurring outside the Greenbelt will have negative impacts to protected spaces in the Greenbelt Plan area.

The OFA strongly supports plans for an agricultural representative to have a voice and seat at the board table of the conservation authorities.

We believe those on the board should have a vested interest in the conservation authority area they’re representing.

However, the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs has proposed a new section to Schedule 6 which would require a conservation authority to issue a

permit when the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing issues a Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO), which can override a conservation authority’s watershedbased decision. The new section requires the conservation authority to issue the permit even if the application does not meet their criteria for issuing a permit and/or contravenes provincial policies and plans. The OFA opposes government abuse of its MZO powers.

As an organization, the OFA understands the importance of conservation authorities to be able to implement stop-work orders when things are not going well or as planned. In those situations, prompt action is vital.

The OFA also agrees that conservation authorities have a role and responsibility in development related to natural hazards and the conservation and management of lands. The ability to appeal planning decisions is appropriate as well.

The OFA emphasizes that there is

only one Ontario landscape, meaning that the full range of land uses found across Ontario; urban, rural, agricultural, natural heritage, cultural heritage and mineral extraction, must share that landscape. Our agricultural areas not only provide us with food, fibre and fuel, but also a broad range of environmental and ecological goods

and services that benefit all Ontarians. Ontario’s conservation authorities play a vital role in fulfilling that perspective through their role in watershed level planning.

It is evident that more time and consultation is needed to develop workable solutions for all stakeholders.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 21.

From the Minister’s Study

This Christmas put yourself into the narrative

By Rick Packer Brussels Community Bible Chapel • Christmas 1958: I was 10 months old during the most severe recession since the 1930s. I suppose mom and dad could identify with Mary and Joseph. Why? They were young – 19 and 21 years old. They were poor with no EI or CERB. Dad was laid off. They ate potatoes and oatmeal for months and could not afford formula for me, so I ate skim milk and corn syrup. We didn’t live in a barn, but we did live in a small one-room summer kitchen. Shame: my grandmother certainly did the math; mom was two months pregnant when mom and dad were married and I think grandma was hard on her. I expect Mary experienced the same thing.

• Christmas 1963: I was five years old and my first recollections of Christmas were a tree, presents, Santa Claus, NORAD reports of him in the sky, turkey dinner and family.

It was all wonderful and exciting, but I do wish there had been an Anna who could have told me about Jesus the Redeemer. “And coming in that instant she (Anna) gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Luke 2:38 NKJV • Christmas 1978: I was 20 years old and in my second year of university. If you mentioned Jesus (my favorite curse word) or the Bible (which I had never read or studied), I would have ridiculed you.

I wanted nothing to do with King Jesus. I wanted to rule my own kingdom. In those days I was most like King Herod. “… and he (King Herod) sent forth and put to death all the male children who were in Bethlehem and in all its districts, from two years old …” Matt 2:12 NKJV • Christmas 1984-88: I was newly married and my wife dragged me to church for the first time in my

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Dec. 13 - 3rd of Advent, “JOY” Pastor Ernest Dow, “Our Spirit Rejoices at God’s Surprising Choices ” (Lk.1:46-55) Sat. Dec. 12, 6:30 pm (on foot) 7:30-8:00 pm (drive through) outdoor Journey Through Bethlehem

life. Pastor Dave at Londesborough challenged me to read the Bible. I was now religious, but I was lost and I did not know Jesus or believe in Him. I was like the chief priests and the scribes who knew where the Messiah would be born, but did not follow the Magi to Bethlehem. “‘Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.’ … 5 So they said to him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judea, for thus it is written by the prophet…’”

Matt 2:2, 5 NKJV • Christmas 1990: My best Christmas. Like the Magi or wisemen, I had an interest in prophecy. I expect the Magi were searching for the King of Kings mentioned by the prophet Daniel, the greatest Magi who ever lived.

They searched, acted, believed and worshipped Jesus based on the knowledge they had. I searched, acted, believed and worshipped the King of Kings for the first time in December, 1990. If you search for Him with your whole heart you will find Him. • Christmases 1991-1999: I suppose during these Christmases I could identify with the shepherds. I was a livestock farmer. I worked on many Christmas days, and I began to follow Jesus. I expect these shepherds were most interested in the same things I was interested in.

Who else would go to a barn to see a King in a feed trough? Maybe they realized that the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world was lying in the same feed trough that they put their newborn lambs in; the same lambs that would be sacrificed in a few months during the Passover.

“11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” … “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us." 16 And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.” Luke 2:11-12, 15-16 NKJV • Christmases 2000 to the present: I want to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus. I hope I am becoming a bit like Mary, who was not perfect, but believed what the angel said in Luke 1:37, “For with God nothing will be impossible.”

NKJV Mary, a descendant of King David, was a humble servant of God who believed in Him and because she believed God, she received grace and mercy from God. Like Mary, I will rejoice in God my Savior and his mercy. Though my sins are many His mercy is greater. “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47 And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.”

certainly wonder if the second coming is near even though no one knows the hour of His return, and He will come when many are sleeping and unaware. But Jesus will come again and end this Satanic kingdom.

I encourage you this Christmas to put yourself in the Christmas narrative. Who are you most like in the Christmas story? Are you born again? Have you received the forgiveness of sin offered by the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of those who believe in Him? Have you believed in Jesus and received the righteousness that comes by faith alone? I hope so. If not, be like the wise men and seek Him. I did and I am glad.

Merry Jesus Christ-mas.

The Regional Ministry of Hope Join us this Sunday for worship in person or via our Facebook page 10:30 a.m.

Rev. JoAnn Todd, Rector 519-357-7781 email: revjoann@hurontel.on.ca The­Regional­Ministry­of­ Hope

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Brussels Mennonite Fellowship A Christmas Reminder To All – “For unto YOU is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, who is Christ, the Lord.” (Luke 2:11) No in-person service December 27th & January 3rd 250 Princess St., Brussels • 519-887-6388 • Pastor Ken Gazley

Blyth United Church May you feel loved and safe as our worship services continue via YouTube “Brussels and Blyth United Churches” My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour.

Contact Alex at minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com

Facebook: Blyth and Brussels United Churches blythunited@tcc.on.ca ~ 519-523-4224

MELVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRUSSELS

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Third Sunday In Advent - Joy "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13 Do something today that brings you joy!

Brussels Soup and More 2 is cancelled until further notice.

In this season of advent celebrate hope, peace and joy Weekly worship services continue via YouTube “Brussels and Blyth United Churches Contact Alex at minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com Website: brusselsandblythuc.ca

Our 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. services have resumed with a limited capacity.

In-Person worship at Melville is cancelled for the time being, to protect our community.

Find Rev. Charmila's services on YouTube by searching "St. Andrew's and Melville Sermon"

huronchapel.com huronchapelkids.com huronchapelyouth.com 119 John’s Ave., Auburn 519-526-1131

Luke 1:46-47 NKJV • Christmases in the future: As this body wears out, I am a bit like Simeon, looking forward to seeing the King. I am looking for the second coming of Jesus who will correct all the evil in the world and make a new heaven and earth without the pain and sin that exists today. I expect Simeon could see the signs of the times indicating the Messianic birth would occur shortly.

I can see prophetic signs that the second advent is near.

There is talk of one world religion.

We often hear that all religions are the same – they are not. The possibility of the Mark of the Beast is real – a cashless society, with technology controlling everything. I

519-357-5273

Services are live streamed and can be watched by searching “Blyth Christian Reformed Church”

BLYTH CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Minister: Pastor Gary van Leeuwen Hwy. 4, Blyth www.blythcrc.ca 519-523-4743

THE CATHOLIC PARISHES OF NORTH HURON AND NORTH PERTH

OUR CHURCHES HAVE RE-OPENED. WELCOME BACK. Brussels: St. Ambrose Saturday ~ 6:00 p.m.

17 Flora Street Wingham: Sacred Heart Sunday ~ 9:00 a.m.

220 Carling Terrace Listowel: St. Joseph’s Sunday ~ 11:00 a.m.

1025 Wallace Avenue N. Facebook: Search for St. Joseph/Sacred Heart/St. Ambrose Live Sunday Mass, Sundays at 10:00 a.m.

PAGE 22. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

WFA wormery now vermicomposting food waste

Busy place Kandace Moyse, left, and Dan Lizmore are behind The Wormery at the Western Fairgrounds, which is an innovative project aimed at using worms and vermicomposting to deal with excess food waste at the grounds. (Lisa B. Pot photo)

By Lisa B. Pot The Rural Voice Deep in the cavernous basement of the Western Fair District’s Progress Building is a room filled with moist dirt and shredded newspaper. A closer look into the soil reveals worms – hundreds of thousands of red wigglers – composting everything fed to them.

“Isn’t it cool?” beams Dan Lizmore, Grounds Supervisor for the Western Fair Association (WFA). He is the creator and manager of this worm farm in the bowels of the building, as part of his goal to eliminate food waste at the Western Fair.

“I just couldn’t stand all the food going into the landfill,” says Lizmore, “Food waste is total bullshit.”

He had to do something about it, so he decided to try and turn all the fairground’s food and green waste into fertilizer for the district’s many

planters and gardens. He shares these ideas on videos and with a growing number of curious journalists cautiously following him through the empty rooms of the basement until entering the worm room. He jokes that he always wanted to be famous, but didn’t think it would happen through worm poop.

The Grove, a new initiative at the WFA, was established in 2019 to help new and existing agribusinesses to incubate, accelerate, educate and connect. The Grove will continue the legacy of the WFA’s deep agricultural roots while staying innovative for future growth. The Grove also took over the WFA’s food and beverage division, explains Morgan MacTavish, the WFA’s agrifood manager.

As agri-food businesses became established along with a farmers’ market, there was more food waste being produced. Lizmore wasn’t having it. So he did some research

An innovative solution Dan Lizmore, above, Kandace Moyse and Morgan MacTavish have launched The Wormery, a soil amendment project, aimed at reducing food waste at the Western Fairgrounds in a natural way using vermicomposing. (Lisa B. Pot photo)

on vermicomposting and started with two small totes of worms.

“They were too small to take care of this much food waste,” remembers Lizmore. “It took weeks for them to eat it.”

The next step was using reclaimed material to build a vermicomposting table. After watching several YouTube videos, he and groundskeeper Kandace Moyse designed a small wooden table with a bottom of strong cordage that can take the weight without stretching (the very first one was made with trimmer line). Newspapers are laid over the strung cords. Then a layer of peat moss or coconut coir (a natural fibre extracted from the outer husk of a coconut) is laid down. This forms a mat or base onto which composted material is layered to a depth of about two to three inches.

Then a layer of shredded newspaper is applied, both as edible material for the worms and to regulate moisture.

The content needs to be moist enough that when squished in your hand, a drop or two of water falls out. Too dry and the worms can’t thrive. Too wet and the material rots and stinks.

The red wigglers (ordered online from Cathy’s Crawly Composters out of Bradford, an hour north of Toronto) are given between eight and 10 weeks to establish and then harvesting begins. Red wigglers are the worm of choice because, unlike nightcrawlers, which are deep soil dwellers, red wigglers live in the top six inches of soil, making them better suited for the shallower condition of worm farms. They can consume up to half of their body weight in food scraps each day. Also, they are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures while maturing and reproducing quickly.

Also, they seem content to stay in their container. Lizmore says they haven’t had a mass evacuation yet with the worms remaining content in their food tables.

As the worms eat the compost, they produce castings. “The castings look like little brown grains of rice and are extremely high in all sorts of nutrients the plants require,” explains Lizmore. These nutrients include iron, sulfur, calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to make a highly-desirable soil amendment.

The castings are collected by

raking underneath the tables. They fall onto the concrete floor and are scooped up with a shovel into a sifting table. Once sifted (to separate any remaining clumpy compost) the material is used for the WFA’s gardens.

Leftover castings are bagged and sold for $10 as “The Wormery” worm castings. It is a plant-based, odourless, non-toxic, soil amendment. Directions advise working two to four centimetres of the worm castings into the existing soil surface around shrubs, perennials and indoor plants. It can also be made into worm tea by adding a handful of castings to five gallons of rainwater and letting it steep overnight.

Lizmore says it has been a tremendous learning process. When they first started, they chopped up vegetables and food waste (no meats, oils or dairy) in a pail and fed it directly to the worms.

“It took way too long and we were getting fruit flies,” explains Lizmore. They experimented by first composting the food waste and discovered that the worms loved it.

Plus the process was exceedingly faster. Now all food waste is composted in a field behind the facility in a thermophilic process of heating and cooling that kills seeds and pathogens, while creating a material rich in nutrients, microorganisms and fungi, all of which the worms eat. Lizmore says it is very difficult to keep the temperature right in traditional composting so that the material breaks down and doesn’t stink.

By starting the compost outside, then letting the worms finish it in a continuous flow process, the resulting material is even richer, finer and completely odourless.

Sometimes, for fun, Lizmore and Moyse add a raw piece of watermelon and stand amazed as the worms literally race to this favoured food. The soil under the watermelon will become a mass of shiny, hungry worms.

There are now 22 tables at The Wormery with an estimated 700,000 red wigglers creating castings, which are harvested once or twice a week.

With less than a year’s experience running the vermicomposting “farm” in the concrete basement, Lizmore, Moyse and MacTavish admit it has been a year of learning.

They’ve had to refine the process more than once and are still working on a better way to sift the harvested castings. Right now, it is hugely labour-intensive, which largely falls to the hands of this trio.

However, MacTavish estimated the worms have saved 30 tonnes of food waste from going to the landfill. Lizmore beams at the sharing of this information. He shared so much practical information and jokes during this interview that I could not capture it fast enough.

To “meet’ Lizmore and learn more, you can watch the first video of the WFA’s Urban Agriculture series explaining the process of vermicomposting at https://www. thegrovewfd.com/events-1/ worm-farming-with-dan-lizmore.

Work continues into ’21 Continued from page 19 internet across rural Ontario, and countless other initiatives and committees at the local, provincial and national level.

OFA staff and board members will continue to expand the network and collaborate with industry stakeholders through 2021,

identifying new ways to support and grow the agri-food industry, and achieve our priorities.

The future of agri-food depends on the strength of our industry’s voices collectively. As the African proverb states, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Winter Happenings Rediscover what Huron County has to offer.

Pick up your free guide to Stops Along The Way and see what’s happening in your area!

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Available at many local tourist spots throughout Huron County or pick it up at

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020. PAGE 23.

Hill honoured by HCFA for ‘outstanding contribution’

A worthy recipient Bev Hill, owner of Hill & Hill Farms Ltd., farm leader and federation volunteer was recognized for his outstanding contributions to agriculture with the annual award presented by the Huron County Federation of Agriculture’s Erica Murray. (Courtesy photo)

By Lisa B. Pot The Rural Voice Described as a “force within the agriculture community,” Bev Hill was awarded the Huron County Federation of Agriculture (HCFA)

trophy for outstanding contributions to agriculture.

“In recent years, Bev Hill has cultivated the future leadership of HCFA by encouraging and pushing those he saw with potential, forward,” said Erica Murray in a

virtual presentation of the award at the HCFA annual meeting.

Hill sat on the board of the HCFA for many years, advocating for the needs of Huron County farmers. He has also been a local voice to the Ontario Federation of Agriculture,

added Murray. “A few years ago at an OFA convention, he asked all the Huron County delegates under the age of 50 to stand and proudly proclaimed that he was in the minority now, and if Huron could do it, so could others. What he didn’t mention was that many of us were there thanks to his dedication and encouragement.”

Hill is a long-time farmer and owner/manager of Hill & Hill Farms Ltd., in Varna which he runs with family members. Congratulations came in for Hill on Twitter.

“Bev Hill’s father Gordon was a close friend of my dad’s from OFA days in the ’70s. I’ve met Bev and he’s just like his Dad. He cares a great deal about the Ag community and is a great guy. Congratulations Bev,” said Harry Bennett.

“No one deserves it more!

Congrats Bev!” said Jim Burns.

A video of Murray presenting the award to Hill at his office sees Hill chuckling and saying, “Well, for goodness sakes! I’m floored!”

Part of the HCFA annual meeting included a presentation from Gwen Devereaux of Gateway from the Centre of Excellence in Rural Health on the Farmers Mental Health and Resiliency Project.

The project goal is to improve mental health among the farming

community by building resiliency to deal with the demands of the job and accompanying lifestyle. The project also hopes to increase social capital among the farming community.

Another goal is to maintain and improve a healthy, sustainable workforce.

Huron, Perth, Grey and Bruce Counties have a total of 12,710 farmers who generate $2.7 billion in farm cash receipts annually – these counties are the most agriculturally productive in all of Ontario, stated Devereaux. “Agriculture plays a vital role in our community and is a driving factor in our local economy.”

The project will empower the agricultural community, generate support, increase access to services, reduce stigma, increase resiliency and improve mental health.

Shed Talks, health coaching, a support line and farm safety programs will be offered via the program. To move ahead, the Farmers Mental Health and Resiliency Project needs local partnerships, funding, community support and grant opportunities.

Moving on from the presentation, the HCFA annual included an election process where Rob VandenHengel was named the new president and Murray Workman the new vice-president.

Letter to the Editor

Resident concerned with bill THE EDITOR, An open letter to Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson: Hi Lisa, I hope you and yours are well.

I feel I must consult with you and your party on the issue concerning the diminishing and belittling of our conservation authorities with Schedule 6 in the Budget Bill 229.

As a Maitland Conservation Foundation Director and a lifelong benefactor of our local Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA), I view this move by your party as very reckless and very short-sighted. For two or three generations now, I have witnessed our MVCA help myself and other local farmers learn the benefits of soil conservation, soil erosion control, manure management and many other good management

practices. These practices always translate to huge economic benefits for farmers and our communities.

I’ve seen these authorities stand up (even in court) for proposed poorly positioned barns and houses near swamps and floodplains. As you and your party should know, there are too many people out there who are too naive or “money hungry” and will do nearly anything if there isn’t a specialist like the authorities to either calmly hold their hand for guidance or grip their hand tightly for control.

For some reason your Conservative Party doesn’t seem to realize the many benefits (including economic benefits) of taking care of our environment. Just look at the very simple example of the recent green energy history in Ontario.

Your party strongly opposed wind

energy. Wind and solar energy are now the cheapest forms of electrical generation and the fastest expanding form worldwide. Green energy was a big player in ridding Ontario of coal-fired electrical generation and since then we have not had one smog day. The health benefits are enormous, and it also translates into economic benefits.

By this bill, you think it will be a “fast buck” for Ontario by allowing unchecked and sloppy development, but it will come back to haunt us quickly in the form of unchecked pollution and people with lawsuits screaming “why didn’t some authority tell us not to build there?”

I’ve seen examples of this too often at our local municipal government meetings.

Thanks for your attention.

Francis Hogan.

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PAGE 24. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020.

Books for all ages and hobbies!

For the Farmer

Storey’s Guide to RAISING DAIRY GOATS A new edition of the best-selling classic with information for the small herd owner on dairy goat breeds, care, feeding, breeding, caring for newborns, and recipes for turning milk into cheese, ice cream, and more. $24.95

HUMANE LIVESTOCK HANDLING Dr. Temple Grandin’s research and insights into animal behaviour have revolutionized animal handling.

Learn, through text and drawings, about livestock behaviour and how to build facilities for healthier animals. $37.95

For the Horse Lover

The Old Farmer’s 2021 Almanac This 229th edition aims once again to fulfill your expectations with its fun facts and forecasts.

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BUILDING RAISED BEDS: Easy, Accessible Garden Space for Vegetables and Flowers Whether you make your beds with boards, cinderblocks or just heaped-up soil, expert gardener Fern Marshall Bradley will help you choose the best site, build and plant a garden. $13.95

THE HORSE LOVER’S BIBLE: The Complete Practical Guide to Horse Care and Management This book provides everything you need to know about buying, feeding, stabling, exercising, grooming, training and showing your horse. $24.95

For the Outdoors Person

The Hike Ontario Guide To WALKS IN CAROLINIAN CANADA This book features walks along more than forty trails in the areas of Brantford, Niagara, Haldimand-Norfolk, St. Thomas, London, Lake Erie, Windsor and Sarnia. $16.95

For the Gardener

IMPROVING YOUR SOIL A Practical Guide to Soil Management for the Serious Home Gardener Soil scientist Keith Reid provides steps to achieve the right soil base in which to grow bigger vegetables and better flowers and how to manage the soil for the long term. $29.95

HORSES AND FRIENDS POSTER BOOK This large-format book has 30 colour photographs that can be pulled out for use as posters, featuring horses and barnyard friends, from cats and dogs to goats and sheep to birds. $16.95

A PADDLER’S GUIDE TO WEEKEND WILDERNESS ADVENTURES IN SOUTHERN ONTARIO You don’t have to travel north to have happy adventures on the water. They’re as close as the Beaver River or the Bruce Peninsula. $19.95

UNFORGETTABLE ONTARIO This beautifully illustrated guide celebrates 100 of the destinations and events that make Ontario an unforgettable place to travel. $29.95

For the Builder BUILD YOUR SPACE Are you looking for ways to create wheelchair accessible accommodations? Author, Julie Sawchuk guides you through the process of planning an accessible space, from a single bathroom to a whole home. $20.00

BUILDING SMALL BARNS, SHEDS AND SHELTERS If you’re looking to build a small barn, or shed, this book offers 230 pages of information and illustrations from laying a foundation to finishing the roof, including wiring and plumbing. Plans included. $28.95

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