The Citizen - Dec. 16, 2021

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The

THIS WEEK

Citizen

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Thursday, December 16, 2021

Volume 37 No. 50

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40050141 Return Undeliverable Items to North Huron Publishing Company Inc., P.O. Box 152, BRUSSELS, ON N0G 1H0

Three in for HE vacancy

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Sweater Day? Blyth hosted its annual Santa Claus parade on Saturday amid unseasonably warm temperatures and high winds that would knock out power to the village and surrounding communities later in the day, but it was the perfect setting for a holiday parade. The

village’s main street played host to nearly 50 floats in the parade, hosted by Blyth Community Betterment, for the hundreds in attendance. There was Santa Claus, bands and performers, but also floats from many local businesses and business people, like the Howson family. (John Stephenson photo)

Three residents have put their names forward in hopes of becoming the newest Huron East councillor, filling the vacancy left

by Brussels Ward Councillor John Lowe, whose resignation takes effect at the end of the year.

According to Huron East’s website, Paul Gowing, Justin Morrison and Jason Hovius have all submitted applications to fill the council position.

Gowing will be known to many as a long-time Morris-Turnberry councillor and mayor and the first Huron County Warden to serve the now-established two-year term.

Morrison is an established volunteer in Brussels, serving as a member of the Brussels Leo Club for years, while Hovius works with the Brussels Community Bible Chapel.

Huron East Council spoke to the process of filling its vacant councillor position with special council meetings scheduled for Jan. 4 and Jan. 11 (if necessary) at council’s Dec. 7 meeting, before nominations had closed.

Newly-hired Clerk Jessica Rudy presented council with a report on the procedure at council’s Dec. 7 meeting, which was held virtually Continued on page 6

Cases surge, Omicron likely found in Huron-Perth

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron Perth Public Health is in the process of investigating a “strong possibility” that a case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the HuronPerth region.

A press release issued by Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH), states that, in addition there being a person under investigation for the variant, the case also involved community exposures on Saturday, Dec. 4 in two Huron County locations linked to a hockey tournament.

“This investigation also includes the Pink at the Rink tournament, held recently in South Huron,” the press release states. “Although HPPH is working with event organizers to identify high-risk contacts, there are also possible exposures that HPPH will not be able to trace. Anyone who has not been contacted by HPPH, but was in attendance at Stephen Arena in

South Huron and Hensall Arena in Bluewater on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 needs to... monitor for symptoms, if you experience symptoms, no matter how mild (e.g. runny nose), isolate immediately and arrange for testing, and continue to isolate until test results are received.”

The press release states that HPPH is in the process of reaching out to everyone who has been identified as a high-risk contact, suggesting that they may have to isolate and be tested for COVID-19.

Just a few days earlier, during HPPH Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen’s bi-weekly media briefing, she suggested that, due to the high degree of transmissibility, it was likely not a case of if the new variant would be detected in the region, but when.

“We are still learning about the Omicron variant, but it’s clear that it spreads easily,” Klassen said in the press release. “HPPH strongly encourages everyone to continue to follow public health guidance,

especially by getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, maintaining physical distance, and limiting the size of social gatherings.”

Furthermore, HPPH joined Southwestern Public Health and the Middlesex-London Health Unit in issuing a joint press release advising caution as COVID-19 cases in the province continue to rise as the holidays approach.

“Huron Perth Public Health’s Dr. Miriam Klassen, Southwestern Public Health’s Dr. Joyce Lock and the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s Acting Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Alex Summers issued the joint statement [on Dec. 9],” the press release reads. “The letter does not add restrictions or gathering limits for businesses, restaurants or other establishments to those already put in place by the provincial government. However, it does advise individuals of the steps they can take to limit the potential spread of COVID-19 at a critical time, when the number of cases is on the rise and holiday gathering

and travel plans are being made.”

The three medical officers of health recommend that everyone should limit indoor social gatherings in private dwellings to no more than 10 people, adding that all attendees 12 years of age or older should be vaccinated. They added that all unvaccinated people 12 years of age and older should avoid non-essential indoor contact with those outside of their household and that, where possible, people should be working from home.

The release stated that the three medical officers of health would reassess their recommendations in one month from Dec. 9.

“We continue to see a steady stream of new cases in HuronPerth, and many are associated with social gatherings and events,” Klassen said in the joint press release. “The more contacts you have, the higher the risk of COVID19 spreading to you or your loved ones, including the vulnerable.

Following these three

recommendations will help keep community members as safe as possible during the holiday season and into January.”

As of Monday, there were 115 active cases of COVID-19 in Huron and Perth Counties, adding to the total of 2,711 cases in the region since the pandemic was declared in early 2020. During this time, the two counties have suffered 70 COVID-19-related deaths.

There are currently five active school outbreaks in the region and three other active outbreaks.

Nearly every municipality in the region saw new cases over the weekend for a total of 50 in Huron and Perth Counties, the only exceptions being North Huron and Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh.

There are currently 480 active contacts, adding to the total of 10,361 contacts identified since the pandemic began.

As of Monday, North Perth was home to 29 active cases, while Perth East had 18, West Perth had Continued on page 2

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

McRoberts offers suggestions for Huron East’s future

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Huron East Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts has created somewhat of a to-do list for himself for the next 12 months that some councillors feel could be a good foundation for the strategic planning process.

McRoberts presented an extensive report of “consultations and observations” since his hiring several months ago at council’s Dec. 7 meeting, complete with a number of recommendations for reviews, studies and further reports.

He told council he’d like to take a closer look at a number of things, including the municipality’s committee structure; area-rating for street lights, waste management and taxation; a comprehensive service review; the possible renovation of the Huron East municipal office; recreation administration; enforcement and compliance bylaws and council composition.

He also said he’d like to investigate potentially housing the Seaforth division of the Huron East Fire Department and the southern public works operations under one roof and amalgamating the Brussels and Grey divisions of the Huron East Fire Department and housing that department in the same building as the north public works operations.

McRoberts said he completed his report for council after extensive consultation with staff, councillors and various committees. This

process was undertaken, he said, in an effort to better understand the community and its workings, identify issues or concerns, note weaknesses or threats and to highlight strengths and opportunities within the community.

“The report speaks to these consultations and observations....

Recommendations are made for consideration, but no direction is being sought at this time,” McRoberts said in his report. “The observations are not criticisms of staff, former staff, council or any of the board/committee members and should not be taken as such.”

FIRE/PUBLIC WORKS McRoberts told council that putting fire departments and public works under the same roof makes a lot of sense, as they have similar needs, but would easily be able to maintain their own spaces in a shared building, which is why he’s suggesting that in both Seaforth and Brussels/Grey.

However, McRoberts made a point of saying that any recommendations regarding the community’s fire departments would require extensive research and consultation with members of the department before any recommendation or final decision could be made.

One of his recommendations is to “consolidate [the] Grey and Brussels fire departments under one roof while simultaneously consolidating public works facilities for the north under the same roof.”

Because Huron County is proposing an addition to the Brussels fire hall to accommodate emergency medical services (EMS) bays and staff areas, McRoberts suggested that evaluating this alternative should be done sooner, rather than later.

“Considering the value of the disposition of assets, including the Brussels fire hall, Grey fire hall and

Grey public works shop, Huron County contribution to EMS facilities, and the reduced operating costs of the collective facilities, the capital investment may be substantially offset,” McRoberts said in his report.

He added that a more detailed and comprehensive analysis of his suggestion should be undertaken, which would include consultation

and eventual consideration by council.

In regards to the Seaforth fire hall, McRoberts called it “old and dated” and said there would be an opportunity to consolidate the department’s operations with the Tuckersmith, Winthrop and Seaforth public works facilities. He also said, similar to the Brussels Continued on page 3

Municipal Holiday Hours Municipal Office Closed December 24, 2021 at 12noon – Monday, January 3rd.

Landfill Hours

Tuesday, December 21, 2021 9:00am-5:00pm Friday, December 24, 2021 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, December 25, 2021 CLOSED Tuesday, December 28, 2021 9:00am-5:00pm Friday, December 31, 2021 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday, January 1, 2022 CLOSED

North Huron Recreation Office (regular office hours Monday-Friday 8:00am-4:00pm) Friday, December 24, 2021 8:00am-1:00pm Saturday, December 25 to Tuesday, December 28, 2021 CLOSED Friday, December 31, 2021 8:00am-1:00pm Saturday, January 1 to Monday, January 3, 2022 CLOSED North Huron Fitness, Aquatic and Arena (Blyth & Wingham) Monday, December 20 to Thursday, December 23 open regular hours Friday, December 24 Facilities Closed at 1pm Facilities Closed Saturday, December 25 – Tuesday, December 28 Wednesday, December 29 to Thursday, December 30 Friday, December 31 Facilities Closed at 1pm Saturday, January 1 to Monday, January 3 Facilities Closed

Festive FREE Swim

Ribbon-wear

Sponsored by the Township of North Huron

Brenda Orr, left, and Mackenzie Nesbitt were part of Saturday’s Santa Claus parade in Blyth, representing the local chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and showing off the organization’s famous red ribbon, used in its annual holiday campaign. (John Stephenson photo)

Over 100 active cases in region Continued from page 1 seven and Perth South had one.

There are five active cases in St. Marys and 10 in Stratford.

In Huron County, there are 15 active cases in Howick, six in South Huron and five each in Huron East, Central Huron and Bluewater. There are four active cases in Morris-Turnberry, three in North Huron and two in Goderich. There are currently no active cases in AshfieldColborne-Wawanosh, the only Huron County municipality

without an active case as of Monday.

As of Monday, over 13,000 people had received a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in Huron and Perth Counties, with over 225,000 doses of the vaccine being administered since it became available to residents. Over 107,000 people are considered fully-vaccinated in the two counties as of Monday’s statistics.

For more information, visit the Huron Perth Public Health website at hpph.ca.

Wednesday, December 29th 1-3pm North Huron Children’s Programs All programs are closed Monday, December 20, 2021 and reopen Monday, January 3, 2022 North Huron Children’s Centre – All infant and children’s programs Maitland River Elementary School – Before and After school programs Sacred Heart Catholic School – Before and After school programs Christmas Tree Recycling When recycling your Christmas tree please remove all lights, ornaments, tinsel, string, garland and tree stands. Do not bag or wrap your tree (including recycling tree bags.)

Residents can drop off Christmas trees to be composed at the following locations free of charge: 445 Josephine Street – Wingham Public Works Shed 39601 Reid Road – North Huron Landfill 117 North Street Blyth Depot

For all Holiday Free Skating go to northhuron.ca

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 3.

Health inspection scam strikes locally

In the corners The U15 BB Huron Heat squeaked out a victory over the Lakeshore Lightning on Sunday morning at the Central Huron Community Complex with a score of 2-1. The league has been keeping busy in December as the calendar inches closer and closer to the holidays. The team is now 9-7-4 for the season with the Oakville Harvest Cup to look forward to this weekend. The locals have games against the Oakville Hornets and Waterloo Ravens on Friday to kick off the tournament. (John Stephenson photo)

Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has become aware that local businesses having been receiving calls from persons claiming to be HPPH Public Health Inspectors (PHIs). These callers have, in some cases, told business operators that they are required to immediately close their business.

Please know that these calls are not from Huron Perth Public Health.

HPPH is committed to the health of the community. PHIs respond to and investigate complaints and concerns, and where required to do so, inspect premises under the authority of the Health Protection and Promotion Act and other applicable legislation.

Reasons you might be contacted by a Public Health Inspector: • To discuss a complaint or concern received from the public • To arrange an inspection of your premises (please note not every inspection is booked in advance) • As a follow-up to an inspection or complaint • To review COVID-19 measures in the workplace after a case has been identified.

Complaints from the public about businesses not following public health guidance during COVID 19 are taken seriously. However,

HPPH’s first step is to ensure that businesses understand the regulations and how to comply.

Ways to verify a call/visit from HPPH staff: • When a PHI contacts you by phone, they will always identify themselves and their role and tell you why they are calling. The PHI will ask questions and give you further direction based on the nature of the issue or complaint received.

• You will also be given Health Unit contact information including a phone number and/or email where you can reach a PHI should you have additional questions.

• HPPH will also offer to provide resources such as regulation documents, signage etc. as required.

• When a PHI visits your business, ask for identification – all health unit staff are issued photo identification and possess business cards.

If you receive a call/visit from a person that you think may be fraudulent, be sure to take the name, phone number and verify the caller with HPPH. Call 1-888-2212133 and ask to speak to the environmental health manager or email EHResponse@hpph.ca

McRoberts proposes potential restructuring for 2026 Continued from page 2 hall, that the county is hoping to incorporate EMS service depots at the Seaforth hall as well. As a result, McRoberts suggested that capital costs could be offset, similar to his Brussels building suggestions, by savings and effective use of resources.

MUNICIPAL OFFICE McRoberts also suggested an overhaul of the municipal office in Seaforth. He relayed a personal story when he was considering taking the Huron East job, being very impressed by the exterior of the building, but being underwhelmed with its interior.

He said that, as a beautiful and significant building, both historically and archeologically, it should be maintained as a community building, but the interior is dated and a third of the building isn’t being used. He also noted that the office layout is disconnected, the floors are uneven and soft in spots, there is inefficient energy use, safety concerns and significant clutter and accumulation of items.

In terms of safety concerns, McRoberts said that, with offices on either side of the building, but a stairway to the council chambers in the middle, members of the public can easily access the upper levels of the building without staff knowing, which is a major concern for him, especially when it comes to staff closing up at the end of the night.

Renovating the interior of the building would require a significant investment, he said, but there could be an opportunity for additional revenue through the leasing of commercial office space.

COUNCIL COMPOSITION McRoberts has also suggested taking a closer look at the composition of council, noting that the size of council is large. He said that council should review the structure in the near future - though Mayor Bernie MacLellan noted

that, because the next municipal election is less than a year away, any changes implemented by council would not take effect until after the 2026 municipal election.

He suggested that council consider whether to retain the ward system, elect the deputy-mayor atlarge, to reduce the number of representatives per ward from two to one and establish a public committee to review council compensation for consideration by council for the 2022-2026 term and beyond.

He also suggested potentially moving closed-to-the-public portions of meetings to before the regular meetings to accommodate third-party experts, which will reduce wait times for consultants and legal advisors, which will directly reduce legal fees for Huron East. In addition, McRoberts suggested implementing audio and video equipment for council chambers so meetings can be recorded, which he said would ensure openness and transparency.

WASTE MANAGEMENT As previously reported in The Citizen, McRoberts has already expressed his intention to further

examine unifying waste management throughout the municipality, calling it “complex and not uniform” in his report, referring to different levels of service and service providers for different wards. He also said that waste management should not be managed by the chief administrative officer when 90 per cent of the service is contracted out and portions of service delivery are managed by the public works department.

He also suggested an operational review and financial model assessment for the Walton landfill to ensure it is financially viable for the municipality. He also added that current observations of the landfill indicate that its current operation is below the standard expected by the province.

PUBLIC WORKS McRoberts says that the public works department’s proactive approach to capacity for water and wastewater upgrades is what has allowed residential growth to occur in Huron East.

However, he did say that a service review should be completed, alongside a transportation master

plan to address service levels of roads and bridges. That plan, he suggested, could become a guidance document for the

department and council that drives the type of surface necessary for each road and assess capital Continued on page 9

The Citizen Holiday Schedule The Brussels Office will be closed December 22, 2021 at 2:00 pm Open January 3 at 10:00 am The Blyth Office will be closed December 23, 2021 at 4:00 pm Open January 3 at 9:00 am There will be no paper published on Thursday, December 30

Hold me up!

(Henry Law, “Family Prayers”) Almighty Father, Conscious of our own weakness, and trusting only in Your grace and power — we beseech You this day to increase and multiply Your mercy upon us.

We are going forth to tread on slippery ground — may You uphold us.

Our march is through a land of which Satan is the prince — may You protect us.

Snares at each turn await our steps — may You guide us.

We look around — and fear. We look up to You — and take courage. By Your grace alone can we stand. If Your grace should fail us — instantly we fall. Our earnest prayer is, “Hold me up—and I shall be safe!” Psalm 119:117 A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church, Listowel, ON 519-492-1359

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

541 Turnberry St., Brussels 519-887-9114

PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

Editorials & Opinions

Founding Publisher: Keith Roulston Publisher & President: Deb Sholdice Editor: Shawn Loughlin • Reporter: Denny Scott Advertising Sales: Brenda Nyveld The Citizen is published 51 times a year in Brussels, Ontario by North Huron Publishing Company Inc. Subscriptions are payable in advance at a rate of $40.00/year ($38.10 + $1.90 G.S.T.) in Canada; $190.00/year in U.S.A. Advertising is accepted on the condition that in the event of a typographical error, only that portion of the advertisement will be credited.

Advertising Deadlines: Mon. 2 p.m. - Brussels; Mon. 4 p.m. - Blyth.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40050141 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO CIRCULATION DEPT. We acknowledge the financial support PO BOX 152 of the Government of Canada.

BRUSSELS ON N0G 1H0 email: info@northhuron.on.ca

The Citizen P.O. Box 429, P.O. Box 152, BLYTH, Ont. BRUSSELS, Ont. N0M 1H0 N0G 1H0 Ph. 519-523-4792 Phone Fax 519-523-9140 519-887-9114 E-mail info@northhuron.on.ca Website www.huroncitizen.ca Member CCNA

Member of the Ontario Press Council We are not responsible for unsolicited newsscripts or photographs. Contents of The Citizen are © Copyright

Another challenge With the news from the Huron Perth Health Unit that the Omicron variant has very possibly arrived in Huron County, everyone seems to be a little more on edge. With cases across Ontario on a steep rise, the thought of losing the opportunity to enjoy the upcoming holidays with loved ones is a real possibility. The health unit has already issued a letter of recommendation to limit indoor gatherings to 10 people and that everyone over the age of 12 should be vaccinated. Non-vaccinated people should restrict non-essential contact to their household.

It has been established that this new variant is up to three times as infectious as previous incarnations, and we don’t know whether it’s any less severe than the Delta variant. We are told that the vaccines are still working, but what doesn’t get captured is the severity of the illness. The reports include new infections and the number of vaccinated versus unvaccinated, but the statistics that relay severity are hospital admissions and ICU cases and there is a lag between the cases spiking and the hospitals seeing more patients. By the time we understand the severity of this new variant, it may be too late for the health system, again. – DS

Glimpses of the past In last week’s issue of The Citizen, reporter Denny Scott profiled Jane White, the subject of a new book entitled Plain Jane, written by White with the help of her grandson-in-law Greg McClinchey. White said, in the interview, that the project began as a way for her to commit her memories and the stories of her life to paper so they would be there for future generations of the family to read and understand.

Now, White’s memories are a full-fledged book that can be bought here at The Citizen, but the foundation for the project is really what’s most important. Too often, elder members of families and communities pass on before sharing their stories. Everyone has a “what if?” story in this regard; a head-shaker about a family member with a trove of tales to tell who died before the story of their life was memorialized.

Why the story of White’s journey is important is the reason behind wanting to tell it. She didn’t necessarily want to create a book and sell copies to people she doesn’t know, she wanted her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to know what life was like for her, coming of age in an era they’ll never be able to fully understand.

Too often, people will wonder what’s so special about their story.

Karen Webster’s new Citizen column, “Glimpses of the Past”, does just that - telling the stories of those who, in the moment, weren’t necessarily doing anything special, but all these years later, that history is fascinating to a whole new generation of readers.

So, whether it’s a book or a video, a journal or a binder full of notes, clippings, recipes and memories, connect with those who should be telling their stories, because life is short and there isn’t always a lot of time to do it tomorrow, or next week, next month or next year. And if you’re an older member of the community who thinks they haven’t lived that extraordinary of a life, you’re wrong. Talk to your children and grandchildren and make sure your story has a home for years to come. You never know just who might be interested in it. – SL

We all have to eat We’ve all noticed the prices at the grocery store going up, sometimes every trip. And now Canada’s Food Price Report is predicting a further increase in 2022 of between five and seven per cent. Much of the increase is driven by supply chain disruptions and can be traced directly to the pandemic. Harder to quantify, but just as impactful is climate change and how it is affecting agriculture. Droughts and storms are wreaking havoc on yields and the long-term effects of events like British Columbia’s floods could be devastating on crop production.

The report also highlights how our relationship with food is changing and how food literacy and reducing food loss and food waste can make a big difference to our grocery budgets.

As part of a coping strategy, one of the recommendations notes the importance of working together to make food more affordable.

Community collectives around food, such as community gardens, will be a key factor in combating the discrepancy between low wage increases and high food inflation. Buying local and taking advantage of the bounty in our area is also listed as another important factor in food sustainability.

Fortunately, Huron County seems to be ahead of the curve on community support and local food availability. – DS

Letters Policy The Citizen welcomes letters to the editor.

Letters must be signed and should include a daytime telephone number for verification only. Unsigned letters will not be printed.

Submissions may be edited for length, clarity and content, using fair comment as our guideline. The Citizen reserves the right to refuse any letter on the basis of unfair bias, prejudice or inaccurate information.

Looking Back Through the Years December 17, 1964 Mr. and Mrs. Austin Raynard of Ethel celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, marking the occasion with a special turkey dinner with their family and friends.

A group of young girls from Walton Public School took the time to visit Callander Nursing Home to sing Christmas carols for over an hour. Led by their teacher Mrs. Moffat, the group performed for the residents and then handed out candy and spent some time talking with the residents before leaving.

The annual Santa Claus parade in Brussels was a success once again.

The big man was accompanied by a group of young baton twirlers from Atwood, as well as several local floats, clowns and a number of costumed marchers. Assisted by members of the Brussels Lions Club and the Brussels Legion Branch, Santa distributed treats to the children of the village.

December 18, 1974 Wilfred Shortreed of Walton was acclaimed as the chair of the Huron County Board of Education. He succeeded E. Cayley Hill of Goderich in the position.

Renovations to Memorial Hall in Blyth were likely to cost village taxpayers $10,000 when the final bills were received.

Clerk-Treasurer Larry Walsh, in the final Blyth Village Council meeting of the year, said that work on the hall was nearly complete. He told council that the total cost of the project was approaching $35,000, but, when donations and grants were factored in, only $10,000 remained to be paid by taxpayers.

December 18, 1996 The mood was grim at an open house in Wingham to discuss the future of healthcare in the region.

More than 1,000 were in attendance for the meeting, hosted by the Huron-Perth District Health Council. Council Chair Janet Hook and Administrative Assistant Kelly Gillis explained the three options for hospital restructuring across the two counties, but they were roundly heckled by many in attendance, as frustration boiled over.

To kick off a year of celebration, including homecoming in Brussels, a New Year’s Levee was planned for Jan. 1 at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre.

Murray Cardiff, the chair of the homecoming committee, said the event would be a great opportunity for people to gather and renew acquaintances.

July 28, 2011 Huron East Mayor Bernie MacLellan was acclaimed as the next Huron County Warden. He accepted the nomination of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Reeve Ben Van Diepenbeek and told those in attendance at the Dec. 7 meeting of Huron County Council that, because he didn’t like surprises, he didn’t plan on springing any on councillors as the warden.

Newly-elected Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson announced that she would be opening her main constituency office in Blyth. The village served as her only campaign office location throughout October and she said she had always hoped to open an office in what she said was the geographical centre of the riding.

Huron East joined Central Huron in its appeal of a recent decision on the composition of Huron County Council, committing to two appeal steps, but stopping just short of being part of a full-fledged appeal,

to which Central Huron had already committed.

The Blyth Brussels Atom Rep Crusaders were able to notch two wins in the Wingham Regional Atom Silver Stick Tournament, but it wasn’t enough to propel them into the tournament’s playoff round.

With just approval from North Huron Council needed to make it official, the Blyth Business Improvement Area elected its inaugural executive.

Rick Elliott of Elliott Nixon Insurance was named the chair, while Peter Gusso of the Blyth Station House was elected as the vice-chair. Tamera Riach of Davara Studios was named the secretary and Sharon Davis of Sharon’s Cars in Miniature was made the treasurer.

After a lengthy closed-to-thepublic session, Central Huron Council decided to relieve Chief Administrative Officer Kevin McLlwain of his duties. Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn said the future of the position was uncertain as a result of the decision, adding that he was not at liberty to discuss the circumstances surrounding McLlwain’s departure.

Thanks to a special satellite feed, two classes at Hullett Central Public School, alongside a class of students from Prince Edward Island, participated in a questionand-answer session with Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield, who was in Russia at the time.

Blyth’s Duncan McGregor was being recognized on a national level, when Narcisse, a play he had directed earlier in the year, had won one of two Governor General’s History Awards for Excellence in Community Programming.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 5.

Other Views

Believing in free speech is difficult

C

anada is in a rough spot. On one hand, we believe that even people in small minorities have a right to voice their opinions. On the other, minorities are trying to drive the agenda.

We knew, for instance, that trying to get kids vaccinated against the COVID-19 pandemic was not going to be easy. How else do you explain the fact that schools aren’t front and centre in the attempt to get as many kids vaccinated as quickly as possible.

Going all the way back to the introduction of the polio vaccine in the 1950s, schools were the centres for fast vaccination of the youthful population.

Right now, with most of the adult population with at least two shots, if not three, a disturbingly large part of the surging number of people with COVID-19 is kids in schools.

And yet there are parents out there, even those who are double-vaccinated themselves, who resist getting their kids vaccinated.

Some just want their neighbour’s kids to be the guinea-pigs. If the first kids to be vaccinated don’t have serious problems, they’ll book an appointment for their own kids.

But then there are the serious anti-vaxxers.

Out in northern B.C., an RCMP officer says protesters outside a COVID-19 vaccine clinic for children have been warned that their actions are illegal. About a dozen people voiced their opinion against vaccines at a clinic in Prince George recently, and some of them followed families to their vehicles.

Protests against COVID-19 measures in Canada and Europe have become more violent lately, at the same time as a new variant and winter conditions have brought a greater spread of the disease. So far more than 36,000

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk kids between the ages of five and 11 have been infected. The number increases each week.

Listening to the local news I learned that an Owen Sound high school had reverted to online learning because of an outbreak of COVID-19. Yet high school students have been eligible for COVID-19 shots since late May. More excusable is the worsening situation in elementary schools because there has been less time for students to get vaccinated with the smaller dosage of 10 micrograms of mRNA instead of the adult dose of 30 micrograms. Still, if parents agreed and schools were willing, we could have a far higher percentage of kids being vaccinated at this point than we have – and fewer cases with infections.

As of Sunday (the most recent figures as I write this) almost 700 cases involved people who are unvaccinated, partially vaccinated or with unknown vaccination status. The remaining 700-plus infections involved people fully vaccinated. It’s not perfect, yet considering that 11.3 million (76.6 per cent) of the Ontario population are fully vaccinated, that’s a small percentage.

Yet the situation is serious. Nearly 30,000 Canadians have died because of COVID-19.

Some anti-vaxxers deny this, of course. Some of them are sure that these figures are inflated to scare them into compliance. Others think

the figures are invented completely to get them to go along with the warnings of health officials.

It’s hard to put yourself inside the head of an anti-vaxxer. Why should health officials want to go along with the idea that COVID-19 cases are either really inflated or just made up?

If the COVID-19 issue isn’t so serious, why would a doctor who specialized in heart surgery willingly sit by and watch a patient deteriorate or even die because there is no room for them in hospital? Recently, as the emergence of the Omicron variant spread and alarmed the medical community, relatives of people whose surgeries had already been delayed by COVID-19 were heard protesting.

So if these anti-vaxxers aren’t listening to the medical professionals as they fight against COVID-19, who are they listening to? Well chock one up for today’s freedom of information. You can find, somewhere in the universe that has been introduced to us by the internet, someone who will take the side of just about any argument. I’m sure there were those who spoke out against polio vaccines 60 years ago but they had to fight to be heard. In today’s Twitterverse, anyone can be heard.

As a believer in free speech, I have to go along with that. But there’s a price to pay for all freedoms and unfortunately lives will be lost because of that freedom of belief. By the time you read this, 800,000 Americans will have died from COVID-19-related illnesses (that would have totalled about 286,000 deaths if their numbers were similar to Canada’s).

There’s a price to pay for freedom of speech. There’s a price to pay for ignoring the danger of COVID-19. All we can do is keep arguing, trying to open the eyes of those whose ignorance is costing people their lives.

Being a community of communities

L

ast week, as I sat through a North Huron Township Council meeting during which the number of specific types of facilities across the municipality were being compared (and used as justification for suggesting getting rid of one), I was reminded of something that North Huron Reeve Bernie Bailey once said: North Huron is a community of communities.

It’s not groundbreaking; since amalgamation there are pretty much only communities of communities (except for Howick and Goderich, going strong solo). Huron East has so many communities of varying sizes it can be easy to forget some of them. North Huron has a number of villages either fully or partially within its borders. From communities like Blyth and Westfield, which are (legally) fully encapsulated within North Huron’s boundaries to communities like Whitechurch, Auburn and even Wingham, which straddle the boundaries between North Huron and its neighbours.

The needs of each of those communities are significantly different, as are the very people who live there. The history of those communities is important to them, as are the facilities that make the community what residents want it to be. In some cases, those facilities aren’t feasible anymore (according to North Huron Council), like the Howson Dam. I’m not arguing against that, just saying that things do need to change. However, making that decision about what needs to change, which facilities will continue and which ones shouldn’t, should not be made by comparing communities.

For reference sake, the facilities being discussed were baseball diamonds and it was part of Monteith Brown Planning Consultants’ Parks, Recreation and Cultural Master Plan that was presented to council.

While I could (at length) talk about the

Denny Scott Denny’s Den failures of that report and that firm, that’s not the point of what I’m talking about here.

When those consultants sat down and looked at North Huron, they saw five baseball diamonds (two each in Wingham and Blyth and one in Belgrave) and felt that Blyth’s weren’t seeing the use of the other three, so it made sense to get rid of one of Blyth’s baseball diamonds. However, that very way of considering the future of the facilities is flawed because, as Bailey said, North Huron is a community of communities.

We don’t have five baseball diamonds.

Wingham has two, Belgrave has one and Blyth has two. Blyth’s are uniquely situated in such a way that baseball tournaments can be held while making use of the adjacent campgrounds. As a matter of fact, that very thing happened earlier this year, bringing hundreds to the campground.

So you can’t really say that North Huron needs one fewer baseball diamond. You could say Blyth needs one fewer, however I’d argue even with that. I mean, do we really need two theatres in North Huron? Probably not. But does Wingham need one? I’d say the fundraising that took place to improve it shows that the Wingham Town Hall Theatre is important to that community, just as the Blyth Memorial Hall theatre is important to Blyth.

The issue was illustrated perfectly later in the evening when council was debating what to do with Galbraith Field.

Galbraith Field, known as the Turnberry

flood plain area, is owned by the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority and, if the numbers quoted that night are accurate, North Huron pays upwards of $40,000 to maintain it.

The problem, however, is that the land is actually in Morris-Turnberry.

North Huron’s costs include the actual maintenance of the land, like grass cutting, as well as the taxes on the land, which are being paid to Morris-Turnberry. A similar situation existed at the Richard W. LeVan Airport, which council recently sold.

In council’s discussions about the field, which is the primary soccer field for Wingham Minor Soccer, according to staff, no one even thought to say, “Well, we have a perfectly good field just south of Blyth, why not use that?” Aside from the fact that that field is also in a neighbouring municipality, no one would have thought it a good idea to send people who want to play soccer in Wingham 25 kilometres away to a field in Blyth. If someone wants to play a tournament in Blyth, both those fields are going to be necessary: no one wants to camp in Blyth but play in Belgrave or Wingham (especially if the tournament will include a beverage tent).

We have to remember that, as much as North Huron is a community, it is, as Bailey said, a community of communities and sometimes, what’s good for the goose isn’t always good for the gander.

Final Thought One’s life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation and compassion.

– Simone de Beauvoir

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

It’s enough already

A

s humans, we always celebrate effort.

Seeing someone give it their all, even if the results don’t quite pan out, is always something that we appreciate. So, despite things not working out, you can know, at least, that you did everything you could.

Sometimes, however, it’s definitely possible to do too much. If you put too much effort forth, what happens then?

This occurred to me recently when Jess and I were watching a murder mystery miniseries on TV. It was very successful, full of great performances, direction and writing. However, once it ended, Jess and I turned to each other and (how to make this sound as non-snobby as possible?) took the words right out of each other’s mouths that it was a bit much.

The series succumbed to that classic murder mystery pitfall of one too many twists.

Not to sound reductive, because the show was very good, but there is a certain formula to these kinds of stories. The writer and director need to pepper the landscape with a number of potential suspects, giving the audience plenty of reasons to think Person A or Person B might have killed Person X, complete with motives and benefits. As the series moves along, the suspects are all stripped away but one, clearly leaving the audience with their killer (unless you’re watching Twin Peaks, but that’s another column for another day). But, of course, it’s no fun if audience members can pick out the killer in the first episode, so the writer and director need to keep the audience guessing, throwing curveball after curveball.

However, in my opinion, the creators of this show took it one step too far. In an effort to really shock us, the creators, sitting on a suitable conclusion, threw in one last twist that, frankly, didn’t work. As a result, the whole thing gets nudged, ever so slightly, off of its pedestal. It’s a fine line between the right amount of shock and going too far.

In the sports world, Denny and I have talked about this before. With him as a Montreal Canadiens fan and me as a Toronto Maple Leafs fan, the topic of hockey has crossed our desks before. And, while I’m certainly no hockey expert, I always thought that the young, hotshot Leaf squad is always wanting to be on Sportscentre with a beautiful goal, rather than taking the opportunities that are in front of them. This, I would contend, results in the team often making one pass too many, squandering the good chance it had for a shot at a great one. Again, doing too much.

I was guilty of this the other night (certainly not for the first time) as I cooked dinner. I branched out from my usual weekly fare and made pasta al limone, a cream-and-butter sauce brightened up with lemon zest and juice.

The sauce is very simple. It just requires a bit of timing and... salt. A lot of salt. Reading the recipe I was following, it said that, between the fat of the cream and butter and the acidity of the lemon, I would likely have to use more salt than I’d think to balance everything out.

The recipe didn’t need to tell me twice, so I wore out my wrist salting the sauce, only to get to the end and decide it needed one last hit of salt. That was all it took. Jess and I only made it about halfway through before we had to hydrate our lips and guzzle water, lest we wake up in the night coughing up dust.

As an editor and a writer, I know that often the most important stroke you can make on the keyboard can be to delete something. Selfediting is a difficult skill that few possess, but while throwing everything and the kitchen sink out there may show plenty of effort, your end product may end up a bit flabby.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

Watsons reunite A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

Facing off The Blyth Brussels U11 Black Crusaders took on the Wingham Ironmen at the Blyth and District Community Centre on Saturday morning, just before the village’s annual Santa Claus parade. Unfortunately for the home team, it was the Ironmen that would end up on top with a score of 2-1. (John Stephenson photo)

At the Branch

Ace draw grows to nearly $7,000

By JoAnn McDonald It was such a busy time last weekend that it was nice to enjoy a

quiet week and weekend just past.

The Cadets met on Tuesday evening and will still welcome vaccinated

Handing it out The Brussels Legion Catch the Ace committee has begun handing out proceeds from its last draw.

Recently, Jo-Ann McDonald, right, presented $500 to Melville Presbyterian Church, represented here by Mary Douma. (Photo submitted)

Meetings now set Continued from page 1 via Zoom. Both the deadline for applications and confirmation of eligibility by the clerk have passed, being set for Dec. 9 and 10, respectively.

The special meetings for appointment selection have been set for Tuesday, Jan. 4 at 5 p.m. and Tuesday, Jan. 11 at 7 p.m. if more time will be needed beyond the Jan. 4 meeting.

In her report, Rudy went over the procedure for council to appoint an eligible elector to fill the vacant seat, which is that each candidate will be given 10 minutes to address council, followed by a questionand-answer period, during which each councillor will be allowed to ask a maximum of two questions to each candidate.

A bylaw confirming the actions of council will be passed as part of the special meeting, Rudy said in her report, followed by the signing of

the declaration of office. The new councillor’s first meeting will be either on Jan. 4 or Jan. 18.

Rudy also reminded council of the committee positions that will be vacated by Councillor John Lowe as of the end of the year, which include the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre Management Board, the Water and Sewer Committee, the Personnel Committee, the Brussels Community Trust, the Brussels Fire Area, the Brussels Cemetery and the Coalition for Huron Injury Prevention Committee.

Rudy told councillors that they have the option to either appoint the new councillor to all of the aforementioned committees, or divide them between other councillors, including the new councillor.

Council approved Rudy’s report, moving ahead with the schedule to replace Lowe in the Brussels Ward.

youth to come and see what Cadets are all about. Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. is when the meetings are held.

The Brussels Legion Branch had the Catch the Ace draw on Friday evening and the lucky winner of week 19 was Keith White. He won $259 and chose envelope number 51. The six of spades was revealed, so the draw goes on. The estimated jackpot for this week will be $6,700. You still have a chance to have a very Merry Christmas!

Following the draw the Branch had the pleasure of having Haley McNeil perform. She is a very talented young lady and all attending enjoyed her show.

The food of the evening was sausage on a bun and this week it will be poutine. This Friday night is going to be a busy one with meat draws, poutine available, the Catch the Ace draw and Stubby D on hand for karaoke. Drop by and have a visit, some fun, singing and of course a chance to win a prize.

December is moving right along and we’ve had some interesting weather. It always amazes me how weather features in one spot are not happening nearby. Usually in December we compare snow squalls and amounts, but this past week we offered wind and rain.

Once we hit the Advent season, our thinking does a bit of a turn and we start planning for days ahead.

With COVID-19 still in control, we plan on using our good sense. Until the whole world has access to the vaccine, our lives will be governed by this virus and many possible variants. The needle is our saving grace. If we share vaccines with the southern part of the globe, as in helping get the vaccine there, we may have a chance of returning to a social life. When all travellers are vaccinated, COVID-19 will take its place along with the many other viruses that we treat with respect.

For now, common sense will keep us safe as long as we are vaccinated and control our interactions.

Alma Watson’s birthday was Dec. 13 and since her death, her kids Ralph, John and Mary aim for that day to gather and celebrate the life they have been given. Sunday worked this year and we shared time, space, laughter and food at Mary and Vern’s in Listowel. A scrapbook, compiled by Aunt Jean years ago, made for some fun.

Looking at a picture of Fran and Nora Shaw in their baseball uniforms, Ross and Judy Somers’

wedding, pictures of snowstorms and floods, band pictures and various other things that interested Aunt Jean at the time was fun. So the purpose of the gathering was accented by the pictures, reminding us that we learn and remember the past but today is what we have, so celebrate.

Baekers/Brussels bologna is a good memory and stopping at Green’s Meat Market last week, and it gave us a pretty good idea of the way this treat tasted. A ring of this had been part of our Christmas tradition and it was a good feeling to get that taste back. Shortbread, Christmas cake and a live tree also say “celebrate here”.

The Brussels United folk invite you to the conservation area this Sunday at 10:30 a.m. for Christmas in the Barn. Ok it’s a shelter. This is a short outdoor worship service to remember the reason for the season.

Enjoy the good will of this time and practise the hope, peace, joy and love that is so needed.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Brussels Legion 218 Join us for Karaoke with Stubby “D” on December 17th 7:30 - 11:00 pm Legion Christmas meat draws 5:30 -7:00 pm

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner Winning Ticket: Keith White $259 Envelope #51 found the 6 of Spades Estimated jackpot for December 17 is $6700

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 7.

Nearly 50 floats in Blyth Santa Claus parade From Marilyn’s Desk

Keep safe and have a good week.

Give someone a call.

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

Happy birthday to Jennifer Pierce, who celebrates Dec.15; Joye (Craig) Kane, Fullarton, Dec. 16; Robert Thompson, Waterloo, formerly of Clinton, Dec. 17 and Hubert Hoba, Dec. 19. Happy birthday everyone, hope your special day goes well.

Winners of last week’s euchre were: first, Marie Millian, with 81 and Mac Brooks, with 69; second, Doris McClinchey, 72 and Lou Lahey, 66; most lone hands, Jane Glousher, four and Jewel Plunkett, three and share the wealth, Harold McClinchey and Cheryl Buckham.

Congratulations to all those involved in the Santa Claus parade and those who entered floats last Saturday. Well done.

Hello there!

The Blyth Christian Reformed Church was one of nearly 50 floats that took to the village’s main street on Saturday for Blyth Community Betterment’s Santa Claus parade, which was taken in by hundreds of residents and visitors. (John Stephenson photo)

NH opts in on animal control

By Denny Scott The Citizen

North Huron Township Council is ready to share animal control responsibilities with a number of its neighbours, however it won’t serve as a host for the position.

During council’s Dec. 6 meeting, Clerk Carson Lamb recommended that council agree to participate in the shared animal control service arrangement proposed by a working group consisting of representatives from six local councils.

Earlier this year, the passing of long-time animal control officer Bob Trick, who had served a number of municipalities, left a gap in the service and, while North Huron was able to fill it temporarily, the need for a longterm solution is apparent, staff said.

As a result, North Huron debated participation in a shared program, with Lamb suggesting, in his report, that North Huron should, but only based on a 1.0 full-time equivalent (one full-time position or two part-time) and not expressing interest in being the host municipality.

Lamb explained that the entire process to find a replacement hadn’t gone as intended. While seven people had expressed interest in the position, none were qualified and all were seeking to be an employee of the host municipality.

The committee, however, was looking to contract out the service on an as-needed basis.

As a result, the working group decided, during a meeting last month, that the position should be split into either one full-time and one part-time position or two parttime positions. As a result, there would be increased costs this year and every subsequent five years as long as the agreement remains in place. Lamb explained that upfront costs would include purchasing a laptop computer, cell phone,

vehicle, uniforms, cages, restraining and capture equipment, safety gear and furnishing an office with a desk, costing approximately $50,000. He said those expenses would need to be paid every five years the agreement is in place and that the annual cost for employing the animal control officers would be between $135,000 and $170,000.

Those costs, Lamb explained, are broken down based on households.

North Huron, with 2,209 households, would be responsible for approximately $12,000 to

$15,000 annually and $6,197.94 of the upfront costs.

When asked how busy the person would be, Lamb said he didn’t have specific numbers, but did say North Huron’s service was getting an upgrade as, previously, it didn’t handle exotic pets. However, to keep services similar across all municipalities, exotic pets would now be handled by animal control.

After some discussion on the wording around North Huron’s reluctance to host the animal control officer, council passed the recommended motion.

NEWS FROM BLYTH Broken Washer?

Blyth Laundromat 191 Westmoreland St., Blyth 519-523-9687

NOTICE TO DOG OWNERS Renewal invoices for the 2022 licensing year will be mailed at the beginning of January to all dog owners who had previously registered their dog(s) with the Township.

As a reminder, all dog tags sold in 2020 were issued on a threeyear basis and are valid form 2020-2022. However, the renewal fees for this tag must be paid annually in order to be renewed and valid.

If you are a new dog owner in the municipality or have recently acquired a dog who has not been registered previously, please do so on the North Huron website or by contacting the Municipal Office at (519) 357-3550.

Township of North Huron PO Box 90 274 Josephine Street, Wingham, ON N0G 2W0

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SUDOKU Fun By The Numbers Like puzzles?

Then you’ll love sudoku. This mindbending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

A special walk Blyth’s Trinity Anglican Church held a special Angel Walk on Friday night, welcoming people to the church to see an extensive collection of angel figurines and indulge in some hot apple cider, while accepting donations to help those in need this holiday season.

(John Stephenson photo)

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

Sports Sparling earns silver in North American shooting event

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Blyth native Grant Sparling brought a silver medal home to Canada earlier this month after impressing at the Precision Rifle Series North American Championship in Texas.

Sparling was one of over 110 shooters to participate in the North American event, held in Navasota, Texas on the weekend of Dec. 4-5.

He was the lone Canadian to make it to the championship match.

This is Sparling’s rookie season in the world of competitive precision rifle events. He worked his way up through three Ontariobased events this season, earning a spot in the northeast regional championship in Pennsylvania earlier this year. A second-place performance there earned him a spot in the North American championship in Texas, where he also placed second.

In an interview with The Citizen, Sparling said he had been shooting casually on and off for several

years, but once the COVID-19 pandemic struck, he decided to throw himself into it as a challenge.

However, as a result of the pandemic, many of the competitions involving shooting larger rifles from longer distances didn’t go ahead.

These competitions are traditionally held on Canadian Armed Forces bases, which wasn’t feasible during the height of the pandemic.

As a result, Sparling took part in more accessible competitions during a pandemic, shooting 0.22caliber rounds from several hundred yards, making it more accessible during the pandemic.

Sparling said he was very happy with his performance, not just at the North American championships, but even in the early, Ontario-based rounds. Upon earning his way into the Pennsylvania and Texas competitions, Sparling said he was taking on professional, sponsored shooters, as well as former law enforcement and military personnel, so the level of competition was high.

Going into the final competition of the season, Sparling was ranked 13th and his goal for the weekend was simply to improve that rank.

Finishing second, he said, was something he hadn’t really considered being within his reach.

He hopes to continue competing and improve his position next season, while at the same time seeing more Canadians getting involved and making it to the upper-tier shooting competitions.

Not only has Sparling enjoyed the competitive nature of the shooting world, but he says it is also a very welcoming and supportive community. During competitions, despite taking on one another, participants are always ready to volunteer tips or help a competitor out if they need a part or their gun malfunctions. That’s the kind of environment that will keep the sport growing, he said.

He also hopes that, when next season rolls around, COVID-19 restrictions will have eased to allow for more travel and further variety within the competitions.

Taking aim Blyth native Grant Sparling recently bested a secondplace finish at a North American regional shooting event with another second-place finish in all of North America. This is Sparling’s first season of competitive shooting and he was the lone Canadian in the finals, held earlier this month in Texas. (Courtesy photo)

Two wins keep Ironmen in fourth

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen The Wingham Ironmen remain in fourth place in the North Pollock division of the Provincial Junior Hockey League after a pair of wins on the road over the weekend.

On Friday night, the Ironmen went to overtime and came out with a 4-3 victory over the Kincardine Bulldogs and followed that up with an 8-3 win over the Walkerton Hawks. The Ironmen sit at 26 points, the same as the third-place Mount Forest Patriots, but have suffered eight losses this season, compared to Mount Forest’s seven, but with an overtime loss and a tie.

Sunday’s game began with a goal

by Ethan Scrimgeour just 13 seconds into the game, his first of the season. Nate Bloemberg and Austin McKeachnie assisted on the goal.

Walkerton struck back, tying the game at 1:46 of the first period with an unassisted goal, scored by Owen Troyer.

They then went back and forth throughout the period, with Wingham reclaiming the lead on the strength of a power play goal by Kyle Stanbury at 3:26, assisted by Matt Tolton and Dana Smith and then adding to their lead at 10:11 with a Tanner Reid goal, assisted by Evan Visser.

Walkerton clawed back with a

goal at 17:05 of the first period, scored by Connor Borth and assisted by Jamie Damignani and Brayden Fischer.

Jonah Burley then scored two power play goals, one at 7:05 of the second period and one at 17:01 of the second to make it 5-2 for Wingham. Stanbury assisted on both goals, with Klee also assisting on the first and Evan Visser assisting on the second.

Ten seconds later, Austin McKeachnie made it 6-2 for the Ironmen with a goal at 17:11, assisted by Chris Adlys.

Stanbury scored his second goal of the game for Wingham to open the scoring in the third period at 5:04, assisted by Payten Wheeler.

Damignani scored at 7:34 of the third for the Ironmen, assisted by Kyle Durrer and Trevor Fischer, to bring the Hawks a bit closer, but it was all over when Austin Becker scored again for the Ironmen, unassisted, to end the game with a score of 8-3 in favour of the Ironmen.

Both teams spent plenty of time in the penalty box, with Wingham committing 10 infractions and spending 37 minutes in the box, and Walkerton serving 53 minutes in penalties on 14 infractions.

Garrett Golley played the entire game in net for the Ironmen, making 42 saves, while Kyle Rivers Continued on page 9

The back of the net The U15 BB Huron Heat took on the Lakeshore Lightning on Sunday in Clinton at the Central Huron Community Complex and came away from the contest victorious by a score of 2-1. The team now heads to the Oakville Harvest Cup this weekend, with a number of games scheduled for Friday and Saturday. (John Stephenson photo)

2022 Regular Council Meeting Calendar For the Township of North Huron All Regular Council Meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each month. If a Monday falls on a holiday the meeting is held on Tuesday. Meetings shall take place in the Council Chambers at 274 Josephine Street, Wingham and shall commence at 6:00 pm unless altered by resolution of Council. For further information, please see the Township of North Huron website: www.northhuron.ca

Monday, January 17 Monday, February 7 Monday, March 7 Tuesday, April 4 Monday, May 2 Monday, June 6 Monday, July 4 Monday, August 8 Tuesday, September 6 Monday, October 3 Monday, November 7 Monday, December 5

Only one meeting in January Tuesday, February 22 Monday, March 21 Tuesday, April 19 Monday, May 16 Monday, June 20 Monday, July 18 Only one meeting in August Monday, September 19 Monday, October 17 Monday, November 21 Monday, December 19

Season’s Greetings from Council and Staff!

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 9.

Uniform recreation proposed

Rejoice!

Huron Chapel in Auburn held its annual Journey Through Bethlehem on Sunday night, welcoming nearly 150 people to the church grounds. The church also collected for the local food bank through the event.

(John Stephenson photo)

Ironmen to play Hanover, Goderich Continued from page 8 made 63 saves over the course of the game in net for the Hawks.

On Friday night in Kincardine, the Bulldogs asserted themselves early, scoring the first two goals of the game. Gavin Gibbons scored at 2:58 of the first period, assisted by Bryce McFadden and Joshua Jacklin, followed by an unassisted goal by Steven Grant eight minutes into the first period.

The Ironmen scored their first goal of the game at 19:35 of the first period when Matt Tolton found the back of the net, assisted by Chris Adlys on the power play.

Kyle Stanbury did all the scoring in the second period, tying the game for the Ironmen and then pulling the team out front with his 18th and 19th goals of the season. He scored 30 seconds into the period, assisted

by Tolton and Evan Visser on the power play, and again at 10:33, unassisted.

Only 36 seconds into the third period, Steven Grant tied the game for Kincardine on the power play, assisted by Jordan Moulton, sending the game to overtime.

Tolton found the back of the net at 6:49 of the first overtime period, assisted by Jonah Burley and Stanbury, winning it for Wingham.

The Bulldogs spent 10 minutes in the penalty box on five infractions, while the Ironmen committed seven infractions, spending 22 minutes in the box.

Devon Carson played the entire game in net for Wingham, making 26 saves, while Jacklin played most of the game in net for Kincardine, making 29 saves. Ryan Tanner came on late for the Bulldogs and would make just one save in his 13 seconds played before conceding the game-winner to Tolton.

The Hanover Barons sit atop the

league’s North Pollock division with 36 points and a record of 17-21-1 (wins, losses, overtime losses and ties), followed by the Mitchell Hawks, who also have 36 points, but a record of 17-3-2-0. The Mount Forest Patriots are in third with a record of 12-7-1-1, followed by the Ironmen in fourth at 13-8-0-0.

The Kincardine Bulldogs are in fifth with a record of 10-8-1-1, followed by the Walkerton Hawks in sixth at 3-16-2-1 and the lastplace Goderich Flyers, who remain winless with a record of 0-21-0-0.

The Ironmen are back in action on Friday night as they welcome the first-place Hanover Barons to the North Huron Wescast Community Complex. The puck drops at 8 p.m.

They then play the Goderich Flyers on Sunday, beginning at 2:30 p.m.

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Continued from page 3 financial, equipment and staffing needs.

RECREATION The municipality’s three recreation centres, McRoberts said, largely operate independently of one another and that lack of coordination can act as a barrier to continuity in service delivery.

“Co-ordination of recreation can be challenging for community users, as there is not a single point of contact to make inquiries, book facilities or co-ordinate with, which leads to a degree of confusing messaging and co-ordination,” McRoberts said in his report. “For example, if someone is looking to book a ball diamond, they may have to call multiple people to find availability and then deal with multiple people in co-ordinating and booking a facility.”

He also stated that service fees should be reviewed in order to be “consistent, competitive and complete” across Huron East, adding that one person should be managing all the facilities, parks and recreation.

McRoberts also reiterated his previous sentiment regarding carryforward deficits at community centres, saying they should be cleared up at the end of every year.

MISCELLANEOUS While McRoberts offered a number of focused recommendations and suggestions, he also offered a number of more general observations based on his short time in the municipality.

• He said that the community is still heavily entrenched with the identification of the former townships, villages and towns, even two decades after amalgamation.

He didn’t say it was good or bad, but just that it was worth noting, saying that identity is stronger in Huron East than in other communities in which he’s worked.

• The municipality needs to improve its wayfare signage,

McRoberts said, saying that, even as the chief administrative officer, in his early days on the job, he had a hard time knowing when he was entering Huron East, even on some of the community’s most major thoroughfares.

• In Huron East there is strong residential growth and opportunity for strong industrial growth, as well as a strong transportation system throughout the municipality. He also said that Huron East is along some key travel corridors, which opens up opportunities for commercial and retail development.

• He said the communities within Huron East are strong, vibrant and active and that the municipality relies “very heavily” on volunteers and service clubs. He said that while that arrangement is costeffective for the municipality, it may not be sustainable in the long term. He suggested a transition plan for the operation and management of certain facilities to municipal staff.

• McRoberts also said that the municipality needs to increase its contributions to reserves in order to fund five-year capital plans (which McRoberts said should also be updated for planning purposes). He

said the municipality’s bridge reserve appears to be “reasonable and sustainable” but that very few other reserves have been established to manage capital assets such as roads, equipment, facilities, buildings, etc.

• McRoberts suggested a service review in order to assess the current level of service provided by the municipality and determine the service level that council wishes to achieve. He said then, council can assess the appropriate amount of resources needed to effectively and efficiently deliver that level of service.

• He said the municipality relies heavily on employee-owned vehicles, which results in high mileage expenses. McRoberts suggested that there could be potential savings in municipallyowned vehicles.

• Several of the municipality’s bylaws need to be rewritten or updated, McRoberts said, including bylaws pertaining to animal control, noise, ATVs, property standards, clean yards, pool fences, signs, taxi services, open air burning, parking and zoning. This process, he said, would ensure that Continued on page 11

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Brussels United Church, Brussels, Wednesday, December 15th ~ 4:00 pm Trinity Anglican Church, Blyth, Wednesday, December 15th ~ 7:00 pm St. Paul’s Trinity Anglican Church, Wingham, Thursday, December 16th ~ 4:00 pm

PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

NH Council to consider flag policy North Huron Township Council, after holding to its flag policy when requested to fly a specific flag earlier this year, will be considering an updated flag policy at its Dec. 20 meeting which will establish a process through which groups can request specific flags be flown by the township.

During council’s Monday night meeting, Clerk Carson Lamb presented the new policy, which includes directions on which kind of flags can be flown on municipal property.

Lamb said, in reviewing other policies, it became clear that most had some mechanism to allow for alternative flags to be flown, leading staff to present the document to council.

As part of the policy, however, Lamb said “strong” language would make it clear that any flag associated with groups whose philosophy doesn’t match the township’s, won’t be permitted, including those that espouse hatred, violence or racism or are politicallyor religiouslymotivated.

Lamb also reported that previously the municipality had strict limitations on flying flags at half mast, so a more comprehensive section of the bylaw would now allow for more people or groups to be recognized through the sign of honour. He also said that specific days will automatically be recognized through half-masting.

Under the previous policy, only Remembrance Day was observed, however under the new policy, flags will also be lowered on National Day of Remembrace and Action on Violence Against Women (Dec. 6), National Day of Mourning for Persons Killed or Injured in the Workplace (April 28) and National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (Sept. 30) going forward.

Councillor Chris Palmer said he appreciated the restrictions put on those able to request a different flag be flown, saying there was “meat” to this policy that the previous one lacked.

He also asked if a group had to request a flag be flown every year, or if one request became a standing date.

Lamb said the request had to be made each year and that the flag would need to be provided by the group, as the municipality wouldn’t be purchasing them. He also explained the rules for flying the flag, saying that, in municipallyowned locations with four flag poles, one would become a community flag pole, but in locations without that many, the municipality’s flag would be removed for alternative flags.

Council received the document and directed staff to prepare the policy to be presented for adoption at council’s Dec. 20 meeting.

MECHANICAL ISSUE While flags across the municipality were supposed to be at half-mast on Monday, Dec. 6, as part of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Reeve Bernie Bailey explained that didn’t happen in Blyth.

Staff reported a mechanical issue prevented a municipal flag from being flown at half mast. Bailey said the issue was being reviewed.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 11.

Cowbell wins awards Blyth Cowbell Brewing Company picked up four Ontario Brewing Awards, two golds and two silvers, at a virtual ceremony held on Dec. 9.

Hosted by beer writers Robin LeBlanc and Jordan St. John this year, the awards are open to all independent Ontario breweries and handed out in 35 categories.

The Huron County brewery was named the gold medal winner in the Amber and Brown American Beer category for its Bobcat, while also winning the top prize in the British Bitter category for its first-ever beer, Absent Landlord.

Its silver-medal wins came in the

International Lager category for Shindig and the India Pale Ale (IPA) category for its Boxing Bruin.

“As we continue to build on the momentum of our record-breaking sales this year, we are so pleased that our commitment to quality ingredients, sustainable brewing practices and world-class equipment has resulted in awardwinning beers,” said Cowbell CEO Randy Powell in a statement, adding that he is “extremely proud of the brewing team.”

The full list of this year’s winners can be found online at ontariobrewingawards.ca

‘Slow and steady’ on report cautions Fisher

North Huron Council made its presence known on Saturday as Blyth Community Betterment hosted its annual Santa Claus parade, making its way down the village’s main street, much to the delight of hundreds of onlookers. (John Stephenson photo)

Green fleet strategy proposed

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron County is moving ahead with a green fleet strategy for its vehicles in the coming years.

Huron County Climate Change and Energy Specialist Lily Morrow spoke to the strategy at council’s Dec. 1 meeting, which was held virtually via Zoom.

“The green fleet strategy outlines criteria to prioritize low-carbon, fuel-efficient, and sustainable purchasing practices for the county’s corporate fleet vehicles.

The strategy aligns with the county’s Corporate Climate Change Adaptation Plan and goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” Morrow said in her report. “There are environmental, economic and social benefits in beginning to transition the county’s fleet to be more sustainable. The green fleet strategy will ensure that the county is ready to transition corporate fleet vehicles as the market shifts, and zero-emission vehicles become more readily available.”

Morrow told councillors that, by implementing the strategy, it ensures that the health of the environment is being considered in vehicle purchases and upgrades.

“This includes evaluating the most fuel-efficient, low carbon, and economically feasible options for corporate vehicles. Transitioning to green vehicles will help reduce corporate greenhouse gas emissions and lifecycle operating costs, while maintaining levels of services,” Morrow said in her report. “The green fleet strategy will apply to all county fleet vehicles at the time of replacement or as upgrades are feasible. The objectives of the green fleet strategy will be met by the departments that are responsible for managing the county’s fleet.”

She said that the strategy outlines a number of environmental considerations for county fleet vehicles in several areas, including vehicle considerations, lifecycle costs, fuel and charging infrastructure, innovative technology, operational considerations, vehicle maintenance and disposal and recycling.

Morrow added that, by taking the aforementioned actions, it ensures that the county is “taking action to meet corporate climate change goals” and showing leadership in supporting the adoption of zeroemission vehicle technology.

“The green fleet strategy is a starting point for the county to

consider environmental criteria in fleet purchasing and operations.

Additional procedures may be developed to support the phase-in of this transition, including policies to support implementation and plans for future charging infrastructure,” Morrow said in her report.

“To assist departments in implementing the objectives of the green fleet strategy, a purchasing checklist has been developed to summarize the main considerations to be made when purchasing fleet vehicles. In addition, an internal task force or committee will be developed to identify next steps and opportunities, as well as address challenges, as the county begins to incorporate green fleet vehicles.”

While there was no immediate action as a result of Morrow’s presentation, council did approve the strategy as presented. In her report, Morrow stated that there may be higher costs associated with the purchase of green vehicles for the county, but that lifecycle operating costs will be evaluated to assess the financial suitability of green vehicles, while, at the same time, identifying operational savings and available financial incentives.

Babies of the Year

One big hello

Continued from page 9 all of the municipality’s bylaws are defensible and that loopholes are addressed.

• McRoberts noted that, while the retail and service sector in Seaforth is relatively strong, Brussels continues to struggle and needs a catalyst to initiate a change, whether that be an anchor business or a community champion or the implementation of a new policy, like a community improvement plan.

Mayor Bernie MacLellan and Councillor Ray Chartrand lauded the report, saying it showed a tremendous amount of work and investment on behalf of McRoberts.

They said it is a great document to have for work in the coming years.

Deputy-Mayor Bob Fisher also appreciated the report, but suggested that McRoberts take a “slow and steady” approach to many of the topics discussed. He also hoped that there would be minimal involvement from consultants and that much of the work could be done internally.

McRoberts said that was his intention, perhaps with the notable exception of the service delivery review. He said he’s capable of completing it, but if upper-tier funding could be secured, that would be one area that could use third-party intervention.

Council accepted McRoberts’ report for information, taking no direct action on any of the suggestions contained in the report.

2021

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PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

Local Gift Guide

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Blyth hosted its annual Santa Claus parade on Saturday with nearly 50 floats making their way down the village’s main street. Hundreds were out to watch on an unseasonably warm December day, all in anticipation of the morning’s guest of honour. (John Stephenson photo)

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HE to ‘let sleeping dogs lie’ with daycare Huron East Council has chosen not to take any further action regarding the residency of users of the Vanastra Early Childhood Learning Centre.

Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts presented his findings at council’s Dec. 7 meeting, which was held virtually via Zoom. The report came as a result of a request from Mayor Bernie MacLellan, who was seeking further information on who was patronizing the centre and where they lived and worked. If the majority of users came from outside of the municipality, he had said at a previous meeting, perhaps council could approach those neighbouring municipalities for capital funding assistance.

Current figures indicate that 22 families with 26 children using the centre come from Huron East, followed by 16 families with 19 children from Central Huron, nine families with 10 children from Bluewater and two families with two children each from South Huron and Goderich.

This is in stark contrast to estimates MacLellan had thrown out at a previous meeting, saying that he had heard nearly half of the users came from Bluewater.

McRoberts also investigated where users are employed. Fiftytwo per cent of the families using the centre who live in Huron East also work in the municipality, while 16 per cent work in Goderich and 12 per cent work in Central Huron.

Of the families who live in Central Huron, only 10 per cent work in Huron East, while 50 per cent work in Central Huron, 20 per cent work in Goderich and 10 per cent work in Bluewater. None of the Bluewater families work in Huron East, McRoberts said in his report, while 38 per cent work in Bluewater, 38 per cent work in Central Huron and 12 per cent work in South Huron.

McRoberts also told council that the municipality’s funding agreement with the county would not allow the municipality to implement a non-resident user fee structure and fees cannot be

increased by more than three per cent per year.

MacLellan said that didn’t stop council from approaching neighbouring municipalities and asking them to contribute to the funding of the centre, but councillors felt it was best to just “let sleeping dogs lie” in regards to this situation.

“In 2021, the Vanastra Early Childhood Learning Centre is forecasted to cost the municipality $174,000. While the budget was estimated at $104,960, the primary reason for the increased cost is the reduction in the number of children able to be accommodated and the increased number of staff required, due to COVID-10 operational restrictions,” McRoberts said in his report. “We have recently received additional funding through Huron County to further offset the 2021 funding shortfall as follows: • Additional year-end funding equivalent to one-month General Operating Grant. This funding can be used to offset COVID staffing pressures, enhanced staffing and/or minor repairs and upgrades where needed in programs ($7,719.13) • Recognizing that municipal operations were not eligible for federal, provincial and small business funding initiatives during the pandemic, one-time funding to the Lower-Tier Child Care Operators in the amount of $50,000 has been issued to help offset financial pressures that support child care affordability, accessibility, inclusively and assist in the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

McRoberts said those added funds reduce the shortfall to $116,280, which helps to offset reduced revenue and increased operating costs.

Council took no action on the report, but MacLellan said he was happy to finally have the information. He said that council had always heard anecdotal evidence about usership at the centre, so it’s good to have the facts about who is using the centre and where they live and work.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 13.

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Brussels Livestock report

Veal sells on strong, active trade at weekly sale Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending Dec. 10 were 1,990 cattle and 702 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday, fed steers and heifers sold actively at steady prices. Choice steers and heifers sold $158 to $164. Second-cut cattle sold $148 to $157. Aged and medium-fed steers and heifers sold $126 to $150. Holstein steers and heifers sold $85 to $132.

Bulls sold $65 to $129. Cows sold steady.

On Thursday, veal sold on a strong active trade with prices $5 higher. Lambs and goats sold steady. Sheep sold higher.

On Friday, calves sold fully steady with choice calves selling $3

to $5 higher. Yearlings sold actively with fully steady prices.

Connell Farms Inc. of Palmerston, consigned 10 head.

One gold heifer weighed 1,435 lbs. and sold for a price of $164.

There were 400 cows on offer.

Beef sold $66 to $80; good holstein cows, $58 to $76; medium holstein cows, $52 to $59.

There were 130 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $160 to $215 with sales to $231; good holsteins, $155 to $190 with sales to $194; SL heavy holsteins, $125 to $140; medium holsteins, $145 to $165.

Reuben S. Martin of Wallenstein, consigned eight head. One limousin heifer weighed 865 lbs. and sold for a price of $231.

James Vanderheide of Mitchell, consigned 13 head. One holstein steer weighed 640 lbs. and sold for a price of $194.

Lambs under 50 lbs. sold $332 to $470; 50 - 64 lbs., $442 to $450; 65 - 79 lbs., $361 to $447; 80 - 94 lbs., $326.50 to $346; 95 - 109 lbs., $293.50 to $325; 110 lbs. and over, $247.50 to $300.

Sheep sold $150 to $300.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $400; nannies, $100 to $250; kids: meat, $300 to $450; dairy, $160 to $320.

Heffer Farms of Wingham, consigned 16 head. Eleven lambs averaged 56 lbs. and sold for an average price of $450.

Baird Brothers of Wingham,

consigned 15 head. Nine lambs averaged 66 lbs. and sold for an average price of $447.50.

Bruce Pehlke of Ayton, consigned 30 head. Seven lambs averaged 71 lbs. and sold for an average price of $415.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $265 to $272; 400 499 lbs., $234 to $254; 500 - 599 lbs., $218 to $230; 600 - 699 lbs., $213.50 to $225; 700 - 799 lbs., $201.50 to $213; 800 - 899 lbs., $197 to $209; 900 - 999 lbs., $203 to $210; 1,000 lbs. and over, $195.50 to $208.

Top quality stocker heifers 400 499 lbs. sold $193 to $202; 500 599 lbs., $177 to $194; 600 - 699 lbs., $167 to $204; 700 - 799 lbs.,

$170 to $183; 800 - 899 lbs., $176 to $186; 900 lbs. and over, $171.50 to $185.

Gerard Masse of Zurich, consigned 24 head. Three charolais heifers averaged 620 lbs. and sold for an average price of $199.

Edward M. Martin of Lucknow, consigned three head. Three gold heifers averaged 935 lbs. and sold for an average price of $185.

Satchell Farms Ltd. of Gadshill, consigned 55 head. Twelve simmental steers averaged 622 lbs. and sold for an average price of $225.

Mervin Martin of Lucknow, consigned six head. Six simmental steers averaged 1,008 lbs. and sold for an average price of $208.

Robert Trick as their animal control officer on a contract-for-service basis. In response to Mr. Trick’s passing, the Huron County working group that was established to consider an [alternative] for animal control service delivery posted an expression of interest for animal control services in local print media and on their respective websites.

The intent was to hopefully identify a qualified and equipped individual that would be willing to provide this service on a contract-forservice basis,” McRoberts said in his report to council. “The response to the expression of interest had seven responses, however, none of the responses were fully qualified or experienced in providing animal control services and would have required extensive investment in training and equipment before being able to provide animal control services to the participating Huron County municipalities.”

McRoberts told council that the

working group began considering a model that would require the hiring of two people to be hosted by one of the group’s member municipalities.

There would be costs involved in the creation of the position as well, including a laptop computer ($2,000), cell phone ($1,000), vehicle ($42,000), uniforms ($1,000 per year), cages ($1,000 per year), restraining and capture equipment ($500), safety gear ($600 per year) and an office with a desk ($4,000).

He told council that initial startup costs are anticipated at $50,000, with a recurring capital investment for the same amount every five years. In addition, employing 1.5 full-time-equivalent animal control officers is estimated to cost between $135,000 and $170,000 per year, to be shared by the six municipalities (Goderich, North Huron, Central Huron, Huron East, Morris-Turnberry and AshfieldColborne-Wawanosh).

The costs in McRoberts’ report were broken down by population.

To pay for one full-time-equivalent animal control officer it would cost Goderich between $19,940 and $24,753 per year, $11,982 to $14,875 in North Huron, $20,737 to $25,743 in Central Huron, $20,748 to $25,756 in Huron East, $16,436 to $20,403 in ACW and $6,824 to $8,471 for Morris-Turnberry. The total cost for one full-time equivalent is estimated to be between $96,667 and $120,000.

The proposed $50,000 start-up costs would also be broken down by municipality based on population.

McRoberts told council that Huron East paid just under $16,000 for animal control operating costs in 2019, but revenue of nearly $38,000 resulted in a net revenue of $21,969 for the year. As a result, McRoberts said that his estimates for 2022 would be that the municipality would end the year with a net revenue of $1,837 with one full-time equivalent or a net deficit of $8,164 for the one-and-ahalf-full-time-equivalent option for the first year and then a net revenue of $12,568 or $2,568, respectively, every year thereafter.

Council received McRoberts’

report and passed a motion recommending the hiring of one full-time-equivalent animal control officer in addition to agreeing to host the new employee if all other options were exhausted. He said, with so many new employees and limited office space, hosting the officer would be a complicated proposal for Huron East, but that staff could find a way if no one else stepped up.

HE will host animal control if necessary: council

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Huron East Council is moving ahead with a shared animal control service with as many as six other Huron County municipalities and will agree to host the position if all other possibilities are exhausted.

Council discussed the issue at its Dec. 7 meeting, which was held virtually via Zoom, agreeing with the recommendation of Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts, who said that, while the municipality is willing to host a new officer, council would prefer if another municipality played host.

Furthermore, council supported the limited level of animal control service, based on a 1.0 full-time equivalent, acknowledging that there may be limited animal control services on weekends, evenings and statutory holidays.

“Several of the municipalities in Huron County used the services of

Power outage hits Walton PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

Now you see it and then you don’t. The snow arrives with a vengeance and then melts away as quickly as it came. Now we are back to mud again! Mild temperatures all this week is what they predict, so we will see. As I sat on Saturday night writing by the light of my computer, the wicked and wild wind had put the hydro out and I heard an estimated time of return might be on Sunday sometime. I guess our area was lucky because the hydro was back on sooner than expected. The news on Sunday morning reported there were still many folks without power and they hoped to have it back on later Sunday.

Rick has gone to see the Grey Cup game in Hamilton with his brother Neil from Vancouver. He took clothes for all kinds of weather, but maybe not this much wind. Hopefully it is not that bad there. I had my weekend all planned since he was going to be away. Do a good cleaning and then finish my Christmas decorating, do some baking and other cooking and then, yikes, no power.

When plans change, sometimes better things can happen. I received an invitation to go out for supper with friends Steve and Marni Knight. We went to Wingham because they had hydro. When we were seated, I had the very pleasant surprise of a fourth person joining us and it was my beautiful, smiling friend Kendra Fischer Cardiff. It had been awhile since I had seen her and it was great that she could join us. We went to her place after dinner and to my surprise, she had a birthday cake to celebrate my birthday! What a sweetie!

Celebrating birthdays this past week were Darian Fritz, Gary Ritchie, Evan Ducharme, Cheryl

Mader, Margaret Whitmore, Emma Taylor, Destiny Dunbar, Emma Baan, Elsie Carter, Jackie Clarke, Nanci Ducharme, Tracey Eckert, Dustin Fritz, Kim Kruse, Anne Clark and Conner Shortreed. Happy birthday to all.

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PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

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

Help wanted Help wanted Help wanted FARM FOR LEASE BY TENDER

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 APPLES, FRESH CIDER, FROZEN home-cooked meals, fresh home baking, variety of frozen meats, jams and jellies and more at Maitside Apple Orchards, 23 Orchard Lane, Brussels, 519-835-2228.

47-4p -------------------------------------------CHRISTMAS GIFT BASKETS AT Maitside Apple Orchard and Store!!

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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, Auburn Esso, 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, Goderich Victoria St. Shell and The Citizen Blyth.

Northside United Church, Seaforth is currently looking for an

Organist/Pianist Interested parties please contact Bryan Vincent at 519-527-2204 or by email bryan@teamvincent.com

In memoriam

Seaforth Community Hospital Trust invites tenders for the lease of the farmlands in Huron East, formerly Township of McKillop, legally described as Part Lot 24, Concession 1, being the lands lying immediately north of the existing hospital and containing approximately 55 acres more or less.

Brian E. Wightman, CGA 64 Main Street South, PO Box 1180 Seaforth, Ontario N0K 1W0 Phone: 519-527-1331 Email: brian@wightmancpa.ca

Tender to be submitted by 12 noon on Friday, January 7, 2022 Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted

Citizen-To-Citizen “SWAP SHOP” ad “One person’s junk is another’s treasure”

• 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

Births CALDWELL. Mark and Sarah of Seaforth are very proud to announce the arrival of their son Ethan John Leslie on Monday, Dec. 6 at Stratford General Hospital, a wee brother for Callie.

Excited grandparents are Les and Evelyn Caldwell of Maplehurst Farm, Blyth and Anna Ferreira of Coldstream.

Looking down from Heaven is grandpa John Ferreira.

50-1p CHAMNEY. In loving memory of Laura May, who passed away one year ago Christmas Day 2020.

Her smile will always be remembered.

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HARV BERNARD Harv - Dec. 17 you’ve been gone one year, From where I sit, it feels more like 10 dear.

People say you’re in a better place, How wrong can they be?

The better place is here, at home, with me.

– You’ll be forever loved and missed, Pat, Karen, Rob, Caden, Cole and Kevin.

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McAusland to speak at Knox UC

FOR SALE - three-month-old grey fabric sofa bed. New was $1,800, asking $500. 519-357-0624. 50-3 -----------------------------------------LOST - grey box with drill bits, etc. Lost east of Walton on Walton Road. If found, call 519-887-6760.

50-3 -----------------------------------------FREE - GE electric kitchen stove, white with flat top. 519-526-1012.

50-3 -----------------------------------------FREE - queen-size NIKKEN magnetic mattress, 196 magnets, very clean and in good condition, available for pick up in Blyth. 519242-4224.

50-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - kittens, tabby with white markings, using litter box, 10 weeks old, also one sylvester female kitten, friendly, 3 months old, reasonable, Harriston, mornings, 519-338-2688.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - 4 Avalon tires, 21560R15, $250. Phone 519-357-2009.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - Dyson vacuum cleaner, ball type, $400; Sirius XM home and car radio kit, $40. 519525-1543.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - Health Rider H20X exercise bike, excellent condition, $225. 519-606-4849, Clinton. 48-3 ------------------------------------------

FOR SALE - instant pot duo with manual, used once, $50. 519-8876425.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - 4 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 snow tires and rims, low mileage; 215/60 R16 95T, $250 o.b.o. Call 519-523-9668.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - girls’ clothing from newborn size to toddler 2, $1 per item or make a package deal.

Proceeds to Wingham Hospital Auxiliary, Wingham. 519-3572768.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - two “Thor” neck/ chest/arm protectors (for use riding a dirt bike), size S/m, like new condition, $100 each; one pair shin guards, still in package, $15. Great Christmas presents. Call Wingham 519-357-2768.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - assorted collection of VCR videos, Disney and many others. Contact Bill Brown Sr., 519522-1006.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FREE - 5 ft. artificial Christmas tree. 519-522-0335.

48-3 ------------------------------------------

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

www.huroncitizen.ca

By Linda Campbell Call 357-2188

Sympathy is extended to the families of Louise Bosman, who passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 8 at the age of 97. Louise was the loving mother of Allan and Barbara Bosman, Don Bosman and Cheryl Dunn. Dave and Margaret Bosman and Clayton Bosman and Debra Wilson.

The guest speaker was Rev. Bill McAusland at Knox United Church on Sunday, Dec. 12. It was the third Sunday of Advent, the Candle of Joy was lit along with the Candles of Hope and Love on the Advent Wreath. Communion was celebrated.

The guest speaker on Sunday, Dec. 19 is Rev. Bill McAusland (retired United Church minister).

Because the church is not having a Christmas Eve Service this year, the church will be lighting our Christ Candle on Dec. 19.

You will have a chance to light a candle that is provided at the end of the service. You are then welcome to take your candle home and relight on Christmas Eve and celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ.

There will be no service at Knox United Church, Belgrave on Boxing Day. My side of the family celebrated Christmas with no snow on Dec. 11 at Grand Bend. It was a very mild, sunny day with high winds.

We were lucky not to lose our hydro there. Other places did, including Belgrave which was without hydro from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

NEWS FROM BELGRAVE

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 15.

Lobb, Bosman memorialized

A banner day Blyth Community Betterment hosted its annual Santa Claus parade on Saturday and hundreds came out to enjoy the festivities and catch a glimpse of their friends and neighbours and, of course, Santa Claus. (John Stephenson photo)

Here is the reveal for four more of the extravagant gifts sung about in “The 12 Days of Christmas”. How are you doing at figuring them out?

Some seem so obvious when you hear what they are, whereas others are not. Those are the things we don’t ordinarily come across in a Sunday service.

Seven swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit - prophecy, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving, leading and compassion. Beautiful, graceful swans seem the perfect symbol for these spiritual gifts.

Christ came to save even the lowest of persons. In the days of the writing of this “catechism” in England, being a milkmaid was about the worst job one could have.

So the eight being blessed in this verse represent the eight types of people in the Beatitudes. You can look them up for yourself. They are

included in the Sermon on the Mount in Matt. 5.

Nine gifts known as the fruit of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and selfcontrol - are the nine ladies dancing. Lords are judges and in charge of laws. Hence 10 lords aleaping as code for the Ten Commandments. That one was not hard to figure out.

Villagers are aware that in years past, bookings for the Londesborough Community Hall kept the building busy at this time of the year as families booked it for large Christmases. This year, I understand, only one booking has happened. Why? Vaccinations of all persons using the hall is mandatory.

There are still those persons who are not vaccinated making family gatherings tricky.

Londesborough’s student firefighter-in-training Chloe Elliott was riding shotgun in the big North Huron fire truck Saturday in the Blyth Santa Claus parade. A rather cool aspect of her training!

On Dec. 12, Londesborough United Church celebrated the Advent service of Joy with Rev. Jan Aylward.

Flowers on the memorial table and the piano were placed by the Bosman family in memory of

Louise Bosman, whose funeral was Saturday. Rev. Aylward made the congregation aware of the recent death of Jim Lobb, then Jan lit candles in memory of their passing.

Sandra Cable will offer the Sacrament of Communion at Londesborough United Church on Sunday, Dec. 19. Sandra will also be leading the Christmas Eve service. Anyone wishing to attend on Christmas Eve should register with the church office this week.

NEWS FROM LONDESBORO

Obituaries

CHRISTOPHER ALLAN SMITH It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Christopher Allen Smith on Dec. 11, 2021. He was 51.

Chris will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his four children and their significant others: Lexi (Greg), Delayna (Tyler), Hudson (Meghan), and Bennett (Emma). He will be fondly remembered and cherished by his high school sweetheart Shelly Smith. Chris was the beloved son of Fred and Teuni Smith, the brother of Steve (Kim) and uncle of Stephanie (Riaz) and Stacy. He will be greatly missed by many relatives of the Smith and Van Loo families.

Chris was a family-oriented man who loved and cherished his life on the farm. Whether he was fixing something that was broken or building something new, he worked tirelessly doing what he loved each and every day. He enjoyed going camping in the summer and building ice rinks in the winter for his kids. Chris loved spending time with family and friends making memories, sharing a laugh and having a good time. He will be sincerely missed by his fellow work family at Brussels Transport and all the farmers near and afar who have touched his life.

Dad… although your time here on earth was cut short, we will love you forever. Your strength and hard-working and dedicated attitude will live on in each one of us.

On Saturday, Dec. 18, a graveside service will occur at Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Ethel at 1 p.m. An invitation is extended to those who would like to attend.

COVID-19 restrictions will apply.

Memorial donations to the Ontario Lung Association, the Brussels Blyth Minor Hockey Association or a charity of one’s choice would be appreciated.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

Mark Bosman (Julie), Kendra Bricker (Marc), Cindy Westerhout (Arnie), Kathleen Westerhout, Jeff Bosman (Lillian), Dana Mellor (Shannon), Christine Armstrong (Chris), Bradley Armstrong (Deb), Teresa Namik (Kevin), Dana Burnsma (Mike) and Pam Clark (Greg) and the great-grandma of 25.

Louise was predeceased by her parents Robert and Mary (Turvey) Coultes, daughter and son-in-law Joan and Peter Westerhout, granddaughter Amy, grandson Jason, great-grandson Andrew, brothers Cecil and Ronald Coultes and sister Agatha Kaasa.

Visitation was held at McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham on Saturday, Dec. 11. A private funeral service followed. A livestream of the service is available on the website. Louise’s final resting place is at Brandon Cemetery, Belgrave.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Knox United Church, Belgrave would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com

Machan, Joan and Ross Livingston and Dan and Pat Campbell. She was the devoted grandma of nine and great-grandma of 26. Mary was the dear sister-in-law of Betty Darling, Bessie Johnston, Mary Shean, Lillian Smith (Ron), Mary Campbell, Isabel Campbell and Jerry Barrett and the cherished “other mother” of Jenny Tickell and numerous foster children. She will be dearly missed by her many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Grandma Mary, as she was affectionately known by at the Wingham Daycare, will be lovingly remembered by the many children who over the years found comfort in her kitchen and in her cooking.

Mary was predeceased by her first husband Charles Campbell (1969), daughter Nancy (1958),

Welcome Your New Arrival

The Citizen Call or email to book your ad today in

LOUISE BOSMAN Louise Bosman, formerly of Belgrave, passed away at Huronview in Clinton, on Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021. She was 97.

Louise was the beloved wife of the late Gordon Bosman who predeceased her in 2009. She was the cherished mother of Allan and Barbara Bosman of Londesborough; Don Bosman and Cheryl Dunn, Goderich; Dave and Margaret Bosman, Goderich and Clayton Bosman and Deborah Wilson, Prince George, British Columbia; the loving grandma of Lisa Elliott, Kelly Marks (Blaine),

519-523-4792 info@northhuron.on.ca

sons David (1974) and Bradley (1991) and brothers Don, Harry, George and Jim Darling.

A private family service was held at McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham on Friday, Dec. 10 with interment at Wingham Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Wingham and District Hospital Foundation or the Huron County Christmas Bureau (Huron-Perth Children’s Aid Society) would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com

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Remembering your loved one Honour your loved one by placing their obituary in

MARY FRANCES LAVIS Mary Lavis of Wingham passed away at Wingham and District Hospital on Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021.

She was 89.

Mary was the beloved wife of Jim Lavis and the loving mother of Jane and Gord Machan, Ruth and Dale

The Citizen.

This is a free service provided by The Citizen. We encourage you to share the story of your loved one in a special remembrance of their life.

Cards of thanks can be placed in our classified section, starting at just $7.00.

PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

Deficit plan, fire hall slow budget, third draft coming

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen After some additions with which some Huron East councillors weren’t exactly comfortable, the 2022 budget will come back for a third time at council’s Dec. 21 meeting.

Treasurer Paula Michiels and Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts presented the second draft of the budget to council at its Dec. 7 meeting, which was held virtually via Zoom. It included a path forward to pay down carryforward deficits for the municipality’s community centres next year, which concerned some councillors, as well as capital funds to begin the process of building a new fire hall in Seaforth, which some councillors felt came out of the blue.

The second draft of the budget included: • An adjustment to wages and benefits from an estimated cost of

living increase of 4.4 per cent to 4.9 per cent • Removal of half of the Hensall Road paving project and completion of the section of the road from Staffa Road to Chiselhurst Road - a savings of $360,563 • Utilization of $450,000 from the aggregate resources reserve to purchase public works equipment proposed in the first draft of the budget - a savings of $450,000 • Removal of a new trackless vehicle for the public works department - a savings of $100,000 • Adding the municipal assessment of capital drains - a cost of $388,608 • Adding the municipal contribution of $20,000 for two dual electric vehicle charging stations • Increasing the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre and Seaforth and District Community Centre levies by $77,474 and $228,015 respectively to reduce

their carry forward deficits to $62,206 in Brussels and $62,899 in Seaforth with the intention of working towards eliminating them completely, per McRoberts’ recommendation • Add $100,000 for monitors and a sound system in council chambers, which could be offset by wind turbine vibrancy fund money • Utilization of vibrancy fund money for the replacement of the Brussels Cemetery lawn mower and the painting of council chambers - a savings of $27,600.

With all of those changes, the budget still includes a general municipal levy increase of 10.5 per cent and a 2.1 per cent capital levy increase. However, the second draft of the budget included an unfunded balance of $563,534 if all of the proposed changes were made. The proposed levy would range in ward impact from a decrease of 0.01 per cent in Seaforth to an increase of 10.6 per cent in McKillop, with the other wards somewhere in between.

While several councillors appreciated the direct nature of the budget, others felt it is trying to do too much, too soon.

Mayor Bernie MacLellan said that, while he had advocated for balancing the community centres’ budgets in most years, 2022 would be the one year in which he would push back. With the proposed renovation and expansion of the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre already stretching the finances of both Huron East and its partner municipalities, asking MorrisTurnberry, for example, for even more money to pay down the deficits this year, he felt, might be too much.

McRoberts acknowledged that it might seem like a lot, but he also said that the deficits aren’t going anywhere and they’re not going to magically shrink. They need to be paid down, he said, and the sooner, the better.

Councillor Ray Chartrand said

that, for the seven years he has been a councillor, Huron East Council has done its best to do the most work with the least amount of money, so he felt this budget was trying to accomplish too much in a short period of time. He also said he didn’t have any advanced knowledge of funds for a new fire hall in Seaforth.

McRoberts, however, said that shouldn’t have come as a surprise to councillors, as the building is quite old and needs to be replaced sooner, rather than later. In another report that night, he suggested potentially housing the Seaforth division of the Huron East Fire Department and the municipality’s southern public works department under the same roof to improve efficiency.

He also suggested removing the improvements to technical equipment for council chambers, which would save $100,000.

Councillor Alvin McLellan felt the community centres deficit Continued on page 19

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 17.

From the Minister’s Study

Singing your own cover song at Christmas

By Charmila Ireland Melville Presbyterian Church, Brussels I’ve been plotting and planning for the Christmas Eve service that is fast approaching. One of my favourite parts of a Christmas Eve service has always been the music.

There is so much beautiful Christmas music out there. Even better, most of our favourite Christmas music is already in the public domain, meaning that I can use it freely, without worrying about violating copyright.

This also means that there are many, many, many versions of all of the songs. Consider “Silent Night”, there are country versions, hip hop redos, violin renditions, heavy metal takes and so much more. I kid you not, I found a version of Chewbacca singing it. Seriously.

Some themes or melodies are so powerful that we can’t help but bring them back over and over and over again. This is what I thought of when I read the scripture passages from Isaiah 61:1-11, Luke 1:46-55 and Luke 4:14-21. Each one contains a thread of commonality – a melody that carries through, a story that is told and retold, a message that needs to be repeated in different ways in different times.

It is a message of hope and joy; a message of salvation and justice. It is the message of God. The song of our Lord.

We start back in Isaiah, in the Old Testament. I have to be honest, this isn’t actually the original either.

If you look even farther back in Israel’s history, you will already find this melody being played: this melody of God. But we’ll start with Isaiah 61. If you recall the history of the Bible, Isaiah was writing to a people who were coming home. They were people returning from decades of captivity in Babylon, going back to the home of their parents and grandparents and reclaiming the land that God had given to their ancestors. They were a people who had been beaten down and held in captivity for many years. They were in dire need of hope and restoration.

This is the message that Isaiah brings to them. He sang to them: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to provide

for those who mourn in Zion....”

You might have missed it, tucked in there in the middle of such powerful words. There is one line: Isaiah says that he is here to proclaim the “year of the Lord’s favour.” Most scholars agree that Isaiah was pointing back to an earlier time. A beautiful, powerful tradition built into the Israelite people: the year of Jubilee. The year of Jubilee is the year of the Lord’s favour. As I said, Isaiah wasn’t the first to sing this song!

The year of Jubilee was written into the Levitical laws – the laws of Moses – that the covenant people of God were to follow. Every seven years, the Israelites were to give the land a complete rest. This presumably applied to the workers as well, but it goes even farther than this.

Every 50th year was the year of Jubilee. In that year, slaves were to be freed, debts forgiven, captives set free and land returned to those who had lost it through debt over the past 50 years. It was a year to restore and reset. I think most of us, when we really look at this idea, would think much the same as we would when talking about communism. Nice idea in theory.

Won’t work in practice though.

To this I say, with our fallen human nature, you’re almost certainly right. It sounds nice, but it will never happen. In fact, there is no evidence that the Year of Jubilee was ever practised in a widespread manner by the Israelites, even in their most faithful years. They couldn’t make it happen either.

But the notes are there, aren’t

they? The notes of justice, righteousness; the notes of a new way of doing things and the notes of the kingdom of God and the joy, peace and hope that can be found there. Those notes are ringing out.

In the Levitical laws, they were written. In Isaiah, they are being covered again in a slightly new way. Making us think about them in a new way. Making us wonder and dream of what might be possible.

Lo and behold, these themes crop up again in Luke 1:46-55, in Mary’s Magnificat: the song she sings while she is pregnant with Jesus; a vulnerable young woman, about to bear the child of God. Here is what she sings: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for He has looked with favour on the lowliness of His servant… His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts. He has brought down the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; He has filled the hungry with good things, and sent the rich away empty…”

Mary reprises the themes of God’s song beautifully. It’s a wonderful cover: justice, mercy, righteousness, Mary is singing of the world of the year of Jubilee. The world of God’s Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. She is singing of a place where God’s promises are happening, a beautiful place.

It’s a place that can be hard to see right now. When we live in a world where Canada’s big banks made a record $57 billion in profits while

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possible, a living wage. Such a world alone is hard to imagine.

Mary sings a song of seemingly impossible things. Yet, like Isaiah, the song is not impossible. The hope, love, justice and mercy remain alive and well. They sing it again, a little more loudly, that someone might hear and believe.

Believe that this is not the way the world was meant to be; that there is more than what there is right now; that God has more in store for His people and His world.

Mary sings a beautiful reprise. A reminder. Then in Luke 4, we get yet another cover of this song. But this one is special. This one is like Continued on page 19

The Regional Ministry of Hope Churches are now open for in-person worship.

Weekly service live-streamed at 10:30 a.m. on our facebook page or on youtube @St. Paul’s-Trinity Anglican Church Wingham.

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

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continuing to raise fees and pay their workers as little as possible.

Where young people have scant hope of ever owning a home when they go up against corporations in bidding wars they have no hope of winning.

Where billionaires compete to get to space instead of competing to end hunger.

Like the idea of Jubilee, the idea of a world where the powerful are cast from their thrones and the lowly are lifted up seems pretty impossible. Heck, it’s hard to even imagine a world in which the rich at the very least don’t get obscenely richer; a world in which they voluntarily pay their workers, the people who make their fortune

Indoor Worship 11:00 am every Sunday As per HPPH Unit requirements, masks are mandatory to be worn during worship services and social distancing practiced. In addition, all other meetings held in Melville require proof of double vaccination.

Brussels Soup and More 2 is cancelled until further notice.

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Proof of vaccination will be required for the Christmas Eve Service

"Then the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together.” (Isaiah 40:5) Contact Alex at: minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com

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

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 18. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

August 1947 The Blyth Lions Club Boys and Girls Band sponsored a “Monster Band Tattoo” at the Community Park.

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The Citizen, Dec. 1, 2011

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021. PAGE 19.

Budget to return Continued from page 16 strategy was too heavy-handed, suggesting a plan to eliminate them over the next three or four years, rather than taking such a large bite out of them next year, putting pressure on both Huron East and its partner municipalities.

Both McLellan and Councillor Gloria Wilbee agreed with Chartrand that the $100,000 for improvements to the council chambers should be clawed back.

Wilbee made the point that, with council meeting virtually for half of its meetings anyway, it wasn’t worth spending the money in the chambers, at least at this time.

Councillor Larry McGrath said he felt he needed to point out that Huron East has added significantly to its payroll in the last year, which is certainly impacting the 2022 budget. He said adding two new positions and large cost of living increases for existing staff have

Jade Glanville, left, did her best to fly like a bird or a butterfly, using her make-believe wings to propel her up to the sky as her friend Kyla MacLeod offered moral support. The two were out and about recently during recess at Hullett Central Public School in Londesborough, counting down the days to the holidays. (Denny Scott photo)

Wilbee proposes land statement Ontario (AMO) conference, and in November due to the municipal election.

She suggested that council continue hosting one monthly meeting virtually and one in-person until COVID-19 restrictions are further eased, essentially for the foreseeable future.

In regards to the municipal election, the nomination period will run from May 2 to Aug. 19, with voting day set for Oct. 24 and the deadline for the first meeting of the new council will be Dec. 16. Rudy suggested hosting the inaugural meeting on Nov. 15, which will allow for council orientation sessions on Nov. 22 and 29,

meaning that the Dec. 6 meeting would be the first working meeting of the new council.

Council approved Rudy’s proposed schedule. *** Councillor Gloria Wilbee put forward a notice of motion asking that an Indigenous land acknowledgment statement be considered at the next meeting.

Wilbee said she had taken a multi-day course on reconciliation and felt it should be incorporated into municipal happenings and featured on the Huron East website.

That motion will be considered at the Dec. 21 meeting of council, the final meeting of the year.

We carry Jesus’ song: Ireland Continued from page 17 Aretha Franklin’s version of “Respect”. It’s the real deal, even if it’s not the original. The original version of “Respect” was sung by Otis Redding, if you like music trivia. In Luke 4, we get the real deal: Jesus. It is the start of Jesus’ ministry, just after He’s received the Holy Spirit at His baptism.

“Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit… and on the Sabbath day He went into the synagogue… He found the place where it is written: “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour. Then He rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant and sat down. The eyes of everyone in the synagogue were fastened on Him. He began by saying to them, “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

There’s a direct quote from Isaiah 61 in this passage! The chorus is the same. The notes are the same.

Except that this is it. This is the real

deal! “Today, this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

Jesus sings the same old song, the same old notes, the same old words, with new power. With new resonance and truth. He sings them in a way that makes them true in a powerful way and resound once again, that makes them send shivers down our spine. Jesus came to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind and set the oppressed free.

He sang it, then He did it. He cast demons out of a possessed man. He healed the blind man. He told the paralyzed man to get up and walk and he did. He brought Lazarus back to life. He healed the bleeding woman, who had been an outcast for a decade. He showed the religious leaders what it meant to truly lead through service and for God, not through pedantic lawfollowing and for personal gain. He modeled what it meant to have mercy, commanding that the one who was without sin should cast the first stone. He washed feet, and accepted all kinds to his table, and molded squabbling disciples into bold and faithful carriers of the gospel.

Sudoku Solution

Wedding Announcement

Cleared for take-off

Huron East Council has set its meeting schedule for 2022, with only one meeting set for the months of August and November (though the inaugural session of council will be set for Nov. 15).

Meetings are now set for: Jan. 4, Jan. 18, Feb. 1, Feb. 15, March 1, March 15, April 5, April 19, May 3, May 17, June 7, June 21, July 5, July 19, Aug. 9, Sept. 6, Sept. 20, Oct. 4, Oct. 18, Nov. 1, Dec. 6 and Dec. 20.

In her report to council, which was presented at its Dec. 7 meeting, newly-hired Clerk Jessica Rudy said only one meeting should be held in August to accommodate the Association of Municipalities of

impacted the budget to the tune of well over $300,000.

Council directed Michiels to prepare a third draft of the budget to be presented to council at its Dec. 21 meeting, the last of the year, with the hopes that it would be adopted early in the new year.

And, in the end, He died for those He loved, including those who hated Him. He died with the words, “Lord, forgive them, they know not what they do.” He died with love for humanity. Then He rose: that we might rise too, that we might be joined with God in the ultimate plan for salvation, that we might know that God is more powerful than death.

This is the song that Jesus sings: love, hope, joy, peace and mercy.

Jesus is the ultimate singer of this beautiful song. From Leviticus, to Isaiah, to Mary, to Jesus, with thousands more covers in between.

And thousands, millions, more still being sung.

From generation to generation, this song has been passed down; a song of hope in times of struggle, a song of peace in times of hardship, a song of joy in times of sorrow and a song of love in all times and all places. A wonderful song.

We carry this song. We sing this song. It is on our lips. It is in our hearts and it is in our hands. How will we choose to sing it? How will we choose to live it? It is the song of love that God has given to us.

What will our version sound like?

James Plaetzer and Kayla Branch were married near Midland, ON on June 18, 2021 James is the son of Larry and Linda Plaetzer, of Auburn.

Kayla is the daughter of Mike and Sheri Branch, of Burlington.

The couple now reside and work in Kelowna, BC. Congratulations from your family

GRADUATION James Plaetzer, graduated from University of Toronto with his PharmD on June 23, 2021. He previously completed his M.Sc. in biochemistry, and B.M.Sc. at UWO. James is employed as a pharmacist in Kelowna, BC. Your family is very proud of you and your accomplishments.

Dr. Spink is Retiring!

It’s been almost 40 years since Claudia and I first opened my practice and there have been many changes over the years. But one thing that is constant is the goodness of the people of Brussels and area and I thank them for their support. My greatest joy has been talking with and getting to know all of you. I hope you continue your support for Dr. Kodali and Brussels Dental Care as he takes over for me.

I have to especially thank Judy Somers and Annette Stephenson for their amazing work and support. We’ve worked hard but have had a lot of fun at the same time. They have been like the sisters I never had.

Thank you Brussels!

PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2021.

BROKEN CHAIN Brody Rivers faces many obstacles. Being part Native in a bigoted town; there’s been family violence. As a series of events torment him Brody struggles with everything. When a January blizzard comes out of nowhere, so does the spirit of a woman who triggers a vague memory. The confrontation that erupts between the main characters is as intense as the winter storm that crippled Huron County in 1971. $25.00

BEYOND REACH Set in Perth County and in the Muskokas, this novel follows three generations of women who struggle to connect with each other. It explores chronic depression and how it affects not only the one who suffers from it but the whole family. Local author Sandi Plewis highlights the need for women to find their voices and claim their own power and takes readers on a journey of self-discovery and hope. $25.00 (10% of sales will be donated to Huron Hospice).

The Old Farmer’s 2022 Almanac This 230th 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

DON’T TURN YOUR BACK IN THE BARN In the first book of what became a hugely-successful series, veterinarian Dave Perrin recalls the unforgettably funny stories of his first year as a vet in rural British Columbia. $23.95

SAM Sam Johnstone is a pretty, talented girl who has been troubled by her name since the day she started kindergarten.

Sam falls in love, but her name and the things she learns in a secret letter prevent her from accepting the proposal. $24.00

Canadian Geographic BIGGEST AND BEST OF CANADA This patriotic salute to Canada’s superlatives offers more than 300 facts and photographs celebrating our firsts, records, achievements and spectacular geography. $24.95

Great Stocking Stuffer!

WOODPECKERS OF NORTH AMERICA Woodpeckers are fascinating birds, using their beaks to find food and communicate.

See beautiful colour photos and learn about 28 North American species, their feeding habits and their benefit to the environment. $24.95

PARKING THE MOOSE Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, author Dave Hill takes us on an epic quest to uncover his incredible Canadian Roots (his grandfather was from Clinton, ON) in what some say is the wisest and funniest book ever about Canada. $29.95

HOMEMADE & HAND-ME-DOWNS Arnold Mathers’ stories have been entertaining Rural Voice readers for years. This new collection of 46 stories includes 17 which haven’t been published in previous books.

Mathers sees the humour in the way we were. $24.95

541 Turnberry St.,Brussels 519-887-9114

THE BEAUTY AND BOUNTY OF HURON COUNTY Stunning photographs by 3 Huron County photographers, including Brussels’ David Bishop, show Huron County as you’ve never seen it with aerial shots, wildlife, landscapes, nature. $40.00

I THINK MY GRANDPA MIGHT BE SANTA. Story time is family time.

This book is special for every grandchild. A board book which creates strengthens relationships and emotional growth, entertains with imagination and humour, inspires holiday and family traditions. $13.99

The Verces Guide to ATTRACTING NATIVE POLLINATORS Bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, flies and some beetles pollinate more than 70 per cent of flowering plants. Here’s a complete action plan for protecting these industrious creatures. $44.95 HAPPY ARE THOSE Aleda Vastag, a village pastor in Milburn Corners near Owen Sound, plans a summer vacation. She has been pondering the age-old question: What is the meaning of happiness? Is this as happy as life gets? When a new romance develops in her life, she wonders if it will bring delight or add to her uneasiness. Happy Are Those is a sequel to The Season for Strawberries. $20.00

THE TIME OF OUR LIVES Stories of Huron County in the PostWar Years The post-war years in Huron County have been the times of our lives. David Yates shares stories about a time of dynamic change when Huron County was at the crossroads of an older, rural way of life and a modern, affluent, technologically advanced society. $25.00 THE SEASON FOR STRAWBERRIES Newly established as the parish’s first female pastor, Aleda struggles with feelings of inadequacy and questions the relevance of her ministry as she faces all the characters and challenges, large and small, that define village life. What happens when the strawberry social is threatened, and when a tragedy shakes the village to its core? $20.00

EXPLORING THE WORLD OF COYOTES Today there are more coyotes in North America than at any time in history. Learn what accounts for the coyote’s great success from its physical strength and hunting skills to its remarkable ability to adapt to new circumstances. $6.95

FIFTY FOODS THAT CHANGED THE COURSE OF HISTORY A beautifully presented guide to the foods that have had the greatest impact on human civilization, organized into short illustrated chapters of each food’s introduction and its impact on civilization. Fifty Foods That Changed the Course of History is an informative and entertaining look at how what we eat has made us who we are. $29.95 AGGIE’S DREAM Donna Mann follows Grey County’s legendary Agnes Macphail to high school as she shows her determination not to let town ways intimidate her as she moves closer to her goal of teacher training. A sequel to Aggie’s Storms. $20.00

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