The Citizen - Dec. 16, 2022

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• Editorials • Sports • Agriculture • Obituaries

The

THIS WEEK

Citizen

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Friday, December 16, 2022

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Volume 38 No. 50

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40050141 Return Undeliverable Items to North Huron Publishing Company Inc., P.O. Box 429, BLYTH, ON N0M 1H0

Klaver feted in Seaforth

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

The countdown continues Santa Claus has been coming to town, as the song says, for the last few weeks, depending on which town or village you call home. In recent weeks it was Seaforth and Wingham, followed by Clinton and Brussels and last Saturday it was Blyth for another great parade.

Hundreds lined the village’s main street for a glimpse of

Mr. and Mrs. Claus, as well as the dozens of floats featuring their neighbours, friends and many local businesses, churches and service clubs. Above, the Spa Essentials team or, perhaps more accurately, their children - was among those who took to the streets to greet the community and wish residents a Merry Christmas. (John Stephenson photo)

On Sunday, the community came together in Seaforth to celebrate Maranda Klaver’s Ontario Queen of the Furrow win, a crown she claimed earlier this year at the International Plowing Match held near Kemptville.

The Huron County Plowmen’s Association hosted the event, which was held at the Seaforth Legion. It included several special guests and presentations over the course of the afternoon. Recently re-elected Huron County Warden Glen McNeil and Plowmen’s Association President Brian Wiersma were among those who spoke, in addition Klaver herself.

In an interview with The Citizen, Klaver said she thought the event went well and she really welcomed the opportunity to celebrate her big win with members of her home community. During her address at the event, she told those in attendance that one of the greatest aspects of being named the provincial Queen of the Furrow has been putting Huron County on a bigger stage, adding that she’s so very proud to be from this community.

She said that attendance at the event was robust, with many family Continued on page 16

Ironmen win two, inch towards second place

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen The Wingham Ironmen continued their winning ways over the weekend, topping their opponents in both contests and hanging on to third place in the North Pollock Division of the Provincial Junior Hockey League with 31 points on the season.

First, the Ironmen beat the Kincardine Bulldogs by a score of 2-1 on Friday night, before shutting out the Hanover Barons on Sunday by a score of 5-0. Both contests were played at home in Wingham.

Nate Bloemberg scored his seventh goal of the season on Sunday to open the Ironmen’s scoring against Hanover. Just past nine minutes into the first period, Nate scored with assists from Noah Bloemberg and Coleson Fischer.

Chase Lorenz would double the home team’s lead at 14:11 of the first period, his second of the season, assisted by Brandon Bishop and Nigel Kreager.

No one lit the lamp in the second period of the game, but Wingham’s Austin Becker scored his seventh goal of the season at 5:38 of the third period, assisted by Tayt Bramhill and Matt Tolton.

Kyle Stanbury scored his 19th goal of the season, a shorthanded, unassisted effort, at 7:26 of the third period and Micah Kraayenbrink closed out the game at 19:21 with his third of the season, assisted by Josh Dales and Tyson Fischer.

Garrett Golley, the first star of the game, saved all 23 shots he faced in the Ironmen net. Coleson Fischer was the second star of the game, while Josh Dales was the third.

For Hanover, goaltender Lander Hartley played all 60 minutes of the game in net for the Barons, stopping 24 of the 29 shots he faced.

The game was a relatively clean affair, with no penalties called in the first period. Hanover’s Dylan Richardson was called for a twominute roughing penalty at 16:13 of the second period, followed by

Wingham’s Matt Tolton, who was whistled for head contact at 18:06, resulting in two minutes in the penalty box.

The only third period penalty was called against Wingham’s Tyson Fischer, who was cited for roughing after the whistle at 6:42 of the period, sending him off the ice for two minutes.

On Friday night, the Ironmen beat the Kincardine Bulldogs by a score of 2-1 on the strength of goals from

Dawson Fahrer and Kyle Stanbury.

Fahrer opened the scoring in the first period with an Ironmen goal at 10:37 of the opening frame. His second of the year, a power-play marker, came by way of assists from Noah Bloemberg and Nate Bloemberg.

The 1-0 score stayed that way until the 8:38 mark of the second period, when Kincardine’s Steven Grant capitalized on the power-play with his 10th goal of the year,

assisted by Kieran Moore and Harrison Meulensteen. However, Stanbury would pull the Ironmen ahead at 14:48 of the second period with an unassisted goal, his 18th of the season.

No one found the back of the net in the third period, leaving it 2-1 for the Ironmen when the clock ran out.

Wingham’s Garrett Golley stopped 29 of the 30 shots he faced in net, while Christian DeJong Continued on page 9

Canada wins softball silver

By Denny Scott The Citizen Team Canada, including Ty Sebastian of Brussels and Tyler Pauli of Seaforth, returned from the World Softball Championships last week with silver medals.

The World Baseball Softball Confederation’s World Softball Championships in New Zealand

started last month and wrapped up on Dec. 4. Team Canada fell to Australia in the gold medal game by a score of 5-2 after posting an impressive record of 7-1 throughout the tournament. Canada opened the tournament with a 3-2 win over Venezuela, then downed Denmark 10-0. Continuing their openinground domination, Team Canada blanked South America 11-0 before

downing Australia 6-0. The last game of the round saw Canada post a convincing 9-2 win over Japan.

In the Super Round, Canada edged out the U.S. 4-3, but then fell 5-4 to Argentina. Canada then blanked Cuba 2-0 to claim a berth in the gold medal game.

While both Sebastian and Pauli were happy with the results, they Continued on page 3

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

A First Christmas in the Bush Glimpses of the Past with Karen Webster December 10, 1854 Wawanosh – Upper Canada Dearest Mother and Father, Tonight, as I sit by the light of the fireplace to write this letter, it is a poor substitute for being with you as we were last Christmas. Robert has finished reading the Bible to the children and they are tucked warmly in their little cots. We have a small supply of candles, but we are only using them sparingly. The big fireplace cooks our food, keeps us warm and sheds light. When we use deadfall wood, the heat is good but when we use green wood, the heat is less and the smoke more dense.

Our home is a cabin made from logs harvested from our own property. It is small, but we are sheltered from most of the cold of the snow and winds. The cedar logs were notched and fit together nicely.

We had to fill in the spaces between the logs with mud and moss. Robbie is almost seven now and was a great help with this task.

Not many of the lots around here have been taken up, so there are few neighbours. There is an occasional visit from a horseback preacher. We have no school, so I am teaching the children to read our Bible and to do some arithmetic, but they would much rather be outside. This summer, they became quite tanned running around in their bare feet. We now have a dog that keeps them amused and we have a cow, Reddy, who provides us with milk. She forages for her feed in the bush.

There is a tall plant in the bush called cow cabbage that she particularly likes to eat. She is quite tame and comes when called for milking times. Robert hopes to get

her bred to a neighbour’s bull this spring and then we can have some beef to eat when we butcher her calf.

We are fortunate to have a neighbour, William Watson, who is a cooper. He had brought a whole chest of tools from Scotland and has kindly lent them to Robert at times and also has advised him about construction.

Likely because William came from a family of fishermen, he did not choose his property wisely and has mostly swampy land. He thinks he can harvest peat from it some day.

We arrived in early June, in time to plant some potatoes and a little bit of wheat. The trees here are immense, reaching up to the very sky, it would seem. Robert has started to cut down some of the trees. The only way to clear the land for planting is to burn the felled trees. The smell of smoke is always present in the summertime. From the ashes created, we can earn a bit of income selling them for potash. As well, I have learned to make our own soap from the lye that we extract from the ashes. One benefit of so much smoke is that it keeps the mosquitoes at bay.

The woods also provide us with some food. There are plenty of beech trees that produce nuts and we have gathered a supply for the winter. In the summer, there were many different kinds of berries to be picked. Little Mary, who is now four, loved to help me find the patches that are scattered here and there. Our neighbours gave us a supply of maple sugar and have promised to teach us how to make our own in March. I boiled the berries with the maple sugar to

preserve them for the winter. We have had a little meat from venison and rabbits, but mostly our diet consists of potatoes and wheat. Our harvest was light mainly because the ground is still full of tree roots. It will take many years to make this a productive farm.

Robert used some of our dwindling savings to buy some supplies for the winter. He walked to Goderich, where there is a grist mill,

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and purchased 50 pounds of flour.

He carried the sack on his back through the woodland trails for the 55-mile round trip. When he had not returned by dark, I was concerned that a wolf had attacked him. It was close to midnight before he arrived and was I ever glad to see him.

Our big news is that I am again with child. The one I was carrying when we sailed for Canada was stillborn after a violent storm midway across the Atlantic. We named the little angel Matilda after Robert’s mother and, after wrapping her in a tiny shroud, buried her at sea. Part of our hearts sank in the water with her. We hope to have another girl who we will call

Matilda to honour the little one we lost.

We are fortunate that there is a midwife living near Manchester called Mrs. Davidson. She assisted Mary Ann when the little Watson girls, Lovie and Annie, were born.

We do miss you so much but feel that there is a better future for our family in this land. It is tough surviving here at the present time but we have hopes for the future.

One day there will be passable roads and villages where we can buy the goods we need. There will be schools and churches too. Perhaps you can come to visit us when we get more settled in?

Your loving daughter, Nancy.

Come together The churches of Brussels worked in co-operation with one another for the village’s annual Christmas service and choir performance, hosted this year by Melville Presbyterian Church. Above, Blyth and Brussels United Church Rev. Alex Jebson and Margaret McInroy of Melville were among the performers. (John Stephenson photo)

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 3.

Sebastian, Pauli reflect on silver-medal finish hasn’t been set yet by officials.

Both were thankful for the support they received from home, while Pauli said the support in New Zealand was incredible.

Sebastian thanked everyone who supported and watched the games from home, saying it was “pretty awesome” for a community the size of Brussels to send so much support.

Pauli said the family members

who came to New Zealand for the team were fantastic, and that this year marked the most support he had seen for the squad, and it wasn’t just from Canadians.

“Once New Zealand didn’t have a great show, their fans started to jump on board to support us,” he said. “That didn’t go unnoticed.”

For more statistics and information on the tournament, visit www.wbsc.org.

God SO loved!

(Archibald Brown) “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.” John 3:16 “God SO loved!” No plummet has ever yet been found capable of sounding the depths of that ‘so’ — “God SO loved.”

When the Holy Spirit wants us to know the great depth of God’s love, He points us to Calvary. Standing at the foot of the cruel tree and gazing at that glorious Sufferer — you learn the deep love of God as it can be learned in no other spot!

Mercy came down from Heaven — and picked up a poor vile sinner lying at the gate of Hell!

Just getting started Ty Sebastian of Brussels, above, and Tyler Pauli of the Seaforth area are both now home from the World Softball Championships, held in New Zealand last week, where the two men helped their country earn a second-place finish. They were both happy with the team’s success, but couldn’t help but wonder what could have been if the bounces went a different way in their gold medal game against Australia. (File photo) Continued from page 1 also both said they had hoped for a gold medal.

“It’s nice to be home, but the silver was a little disappointing,” Sebastian said in an interview with The Citizen. “It’s not the colour we wanted.”

Pauli said he was happy with the success the team found in the world tournament and in other games the team played, but he also wished for a different result for the final game.

“I”m happy with how far we’ve come as a team,” he said. “I did wish it was a different colour.”

Sebastian said the deciding factor was luck, saying that, in their 6-0 victory over Australia, Team Canada had the bounces go their way.

“They had all the bounces in the final and we didn’t get any,” he said. “The hits we had didn’t fall in, and their young pitcher threw a really good game.”

Pauli, on the other hand, felt the Australian team that took the field during the final was completely different from the one Team Canada had shut out earlier in the tournament.

“I was shocked, when we got to the finals, of how well Australia made adjustments,” he said. “It was like a totally different team took the field than the one we saw in the round-robin.”

As far as their personal performances, both said they enjoyed the tournament, with Sebastian saying he felt he did well both in the field and on the mound.

Sebastian had 14 at-bats, scoring three runs on two hits with three runs batted in. He pitched one game, earning the win for the team and posted a 2.86 earned run average and 14 strike-outs. He played four games in the field and posted a 1.000 fielding percentage.

Pauli had two at-bats and earned two runs with one run-batted-in.

Pauli said he didn’t see as much playing time in the tournament as he did in the games leading up to it, including another tournament, but it was an educational experience for him.

“The other guys got on rolls, so I was being supportive,” he said. “I was happy to see that success from

our other teammates, especially the Ontarians.

“I learned a lot about myself, such as being able to add that support role to the aspect of my game,” he said. “I learned to be that cheerleader and be a good team guy on the bench. I wasn’t accustomed to that in the past, but now I know how important it is.”

In previous years, Pauli was the only Ontarian on the team. This year, he was one of three between himself, Sebastian and Quinten Bruce, with whom he plays on the Bear Creek Express team.

“I am really proud of the way the Ontario guys stepped up this goaround,” he said. “I know Ty was a late [addition], but he did well, and saw quite a bit of playing time. He was very versatile. This was Quinten’s first time, and I tried to take him under my wing, but he surpassed me.”

While neither anticipated the outcome of the final game, both entered the tournament with confidence the team would do well.

“With this particular group of players, especially our pitching staff and how long some of us have been together, nobody was surprised, especially our team, when we went undefeated in the opening round,” Pauli said.

Sebastian said it was the team’s goal to “run the table” but succeeding in that opening round wasn’t a sure thing. He said the team may have cooled a little after that, leading to its loss in the Super Round and the finals.

As for the future, Sebastian looks forward to playing with the Tigers again and playing with the Toronto Batmen, a team in the International Softball Congress (ISC).

“I want to get in as much ball as possible and try and get back on a national team for the next cycle,” he said.

Pauli anticipates going back to Bear Creek Express and traveling the ISC circuit, which includes several tournaments throughout the year, leading to the national and world championships.

He hopes to be a part of the national team next year as well, though the qualifier for the next international competition

“Herein is love, not that we loved God — but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:10 A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church, Listowel, ON 519-492-1359

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PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Editorials & Opinions

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Reaching a milestone Fusion has long been the holy grail of nuclear scientists. The process of combining two atomic nuclei results in the release of massive amounts of carbon-free energy with no emissions and no radioactive waste. Of course, the trick being that you need the energy of a sun to get those two nuclei to fuse.

Finally, after almost 60 years of trying, scientists in California have been able to create more energy than they used, leaving a net surplus.

This milestone means that, with enough research and resources, it is possible to use fusion as a viable alternative for our electricity needs.

Scaling the experiment up to a point where it can be used for a house, city or country will take an incredible amount of investment. However, the engineering obstacles to getting even the first power plant up and running are tremendous. Even the most optimistic forecast is that we are decades away from being able to rely on fusion as a power source. A realistic expectation is 50 or more years, taking it off the table as the answer to the global efforts to have net-zero emissions by 2050, but it is a step in the right direction.

Seeing the damage that we’ve done to our planet in the last 50 years, makes one wonder if we can last until a new energy source becomes viable. – DS

Is it 2025 yet?

While many Ontarians have broken free of the yoke of the COVID19 pandemic, returning to public gatherings, family get-togethers and retiring their masks, the province’s tourism sector is still feeling the effects of the virus, not seeing the bounce-back it had hoped for.

A joint report from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario shows a significantly slower recovery for the province’s tourism-related businesses than expected.

Tourism businesses in Ontario today are generating just 64 per cent of the revenue they brought in pre-pandemic in 2019 and seven out of 10 of the businesses have taken on debt in recent years to stay afloat. As a result, the Ontario tourism industry is not expected to fully recover from the pandemic and its associated lockdowns until 2025.

The provincial government had introduced the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit for Ontarians taking in accommodations in their home province, but it hasn’t been enough to buoy the industry back to its prepandemic levels, it seems.

Whether it’s some still bristling at travel in the age of COVID-19 or the fear of spending money at a time when talk of a recession and rising food costs is present at every kitchen table or even nation-wide staffing challenges, Ontario’s tourism sector needs our help and perhaps it’s Ontarians who are being called to action. So, whether it’s your favourite restaurant or winery, a weekend getaway a few hours from home or a regional theatre like the Blyth Festival, try to be there for them and support what they do. If we don’t, who will? And if we want them to be there for years to come, they need support now. – SL

Paging Mr. Trudeau Canada’s premiers are united in calling for a meeting on health care with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his federal government. This represents a real chance for the leader of the country to step up and take charge of a crisis that is plaguing the entire country.

Canada’s universal health care system is a principle at the national level that is administered, largely, at the provincial level. So, while the premiers of Canada’s provinces and territories are the ones in charge of keeping their residents healthy, it’s all done under Ottawa’s umbrella. As emergency department closures continue to dominate the news and the system continues to crumble, Trudeau can’t plead ignorance. His government has to step up and do whatever it can to help. It’s not just the right thing to do to help Canadians, but it’s one of the things a true leader does when his people are suffering. Canadians are heavily divided as to whether Trudeau is that and this would be a good way to convince some of his critics that he’s up to the task.

Furthermore, hanging in the balance could be Trudeau’s Liberal government’s supply and confidence agreement with Jagmeet Singh’s New Democratic Party. Singh has said that his party “absolutely reserve[s] the right to withdraw [its] support” from the Liberals if the party doesn’t see any action on health care in the country, though he remains confident in it as the agreement’s first anniversary passes.

Locally, temporary emergency department closures are now commonplace and people like Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance CEO Andrew Williams, as reported last week, doesn’t see them going away any time soon. Meanwhile, horror stories of long waits and people dying while waiting for care are plaguing larger city centres.

A federal crisis needs a federal saviour. The premiers have come to the table to ask for help. We can only hope that Trudeau does the right thing and pulls out all the stops to save Canadian health care. – SL

Looking Back Through the Years December 16, 1965 The Brussels Legion Ladies Auxiliary elected its officers for the coming term. Vera Hastings would serve as the president, stepping in after Doreen Rutledge, while Mary Pennington would be the first vicepresident and Jean Lamont would be the second vice-president.

Mary Lowe was named the secretary, Kay Duncan was the treasurer and Mabel Willis and Doreen Rutledge would serve as the Sergeants-at-arms.

William H. King resigned from his position as the clerk of the Village of Brussels, taking the position of clerk for Waterloo Township, effective Jan. 15, 1966.

December 17, 1997 With just over a week left until Christmas, many local merchants in Blyth and Brussels were reporting increased sales and a busy holiday season, which was good news for local businesses.

Max Oldfield of Oldfield’s Pro Hardware and Radio Shack in Brussels said that toys were moving well and that they were finding themselves very busy with satellite dish installations.

Communities in Huron County were still split on the idea of restructuring after word had come down from the provincial government regarding the cost savings it envisioned with amalgamation. While many areas in northern Huron County had been meeting and discussing options, Morris and Turnberry Townships had still refrained from discussions.

Bucking that trend, the two municipalities finally met with one another, as well as with Wingham and Howick Township. Both Morris and Turnberry Township Councils had said that none of the options

being floated for the northern region of the county were feasible for them, feeling it was a waste of money.

The options being discussed were essentially one municipality comprised of all the communities north of County Road 25, while a second option would split that group, with Morris, Grey and Howick Townships joining with Brussels and Blyth in one area and the others joining together. As a result, both would have populations of about 9,000.

December 20, 2012 Huron County Council hired its new top employee, naming Brenda Orchard as its new chief administrative officer. She was set to begin in Huron County on Jan. 28, 2013, ending her time as the chief administrative officer of Annapolis County, Nova Scotia.

New life was being breathed into the former East Wawanosh Public School with Henry Van Heesch, the owner of Euro-Parts, buying the school building in the hopes of expanding his business to the location.

In speaking with Huron County Council about his vision, Van Heesch said he was very excited and that the building offered a real opportunity for the business to grow.

The Brussels Lions Club welcomed five new members to its ranks: Cora Alcock, Jean Davidson, Kathy Nichol, Paul Nichol and Julie Hamilton.

A club representative said that four of the five new members being women was a source of pride for the club.

It was the end of an era in Winthrop as the building that formerly housed the community’s store came down after an estimated

over 50 years of operation.

Jane Muegge announced that, at the end of the year, she would be retiring from the position of agriculture and rural economic development advisor for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

The Avon Maitland District School Board elected Colleen Schenk, the representative for North Huron, Morris-Turnberry and Howick, as its chair for the coming term.

Huron County Director of Planning and Development Scott Tousaw projected that his department’s budget would need to rise by nearly five per cent in 2013.

Tousaw told councillors that many of the factors driving the increase had essentially already been approved by council, including the addition of a new planner and a business development co-ordinator, as well as annual increases to cost of living expenses and benefits.

December 16, 2021 After the resignation of Huron East Councillor for the Brussels Ward John Lowe, three people had put their names forward to fill the position until the next municipal election: Paul Gowing, Justin Morrison and Jason Hovius.

Council would select Lowe’s replacement during a special meeting set for Jan. 4, 2022.

Nearly 50 floats hit the street in Blyth for its Santa Claus parade, making it another successful endeavour for Blyth Community Betterment since resurrecting the parade a few years earlier.

Blyth native Grant Sparling earned a silver medal in the Precision Rifle Series North American Championship target shooting event, held in Texas.

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 5.

Other Views

Man’s cruelty to man continues

W

ith Christmas approaching, the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol is bound to be told and retold in the next couple of weeks. So much has changed, yet so much remains the same since 1843 when Charles Dickens first published the novella.

There have been so many treatments of A Christmas Carol, from Alastair Sim’s 1951 classic through the Muppets’ 1992 version, but the story of the miserly man who ignores pleas from fellow businessmen to support the poor at Christmas and resents giving his clerk Bob Cratchit a day off to celebrate with his family still works for modern people. We often wish that rich modern men could have a similar experience of having their selfish attitudes transformed by visits of the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future.

The story behind Dickens’ writing of A Christmas Carol goes back to his own childhood. Almost 200 years ago, in 1824, young Dickens was a pupil in a private school but his father, a well-paid clerk, got into financial trouble and was sent to debtor’s prison, the inspiration for the character of Mr. Micawber in Dickens’ classic novel, David Copperfield. Young Dickens had to go to work in a factory to earn money for the family.

Eventually, he got back to school, but never attended beyond age 15.

Thankfully, our world in Western countries has advanced far beyond the days of Dickens’ day. Most of us live more like the rich people who surrounded Scrooge than Bob Cratchit’s family. Here in Canada, thanks to our free medicare, children like Cratchit’s son Tiny Tim would get treatment for his bad leg.

Yet, we still have people living on the street, even as Canadian winter arrives. Here in Ontario alone, between April 1, 2021, and

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk March 31, 2022, more than 587,000 people accessed a food bank, with more than 4.3 million visits. About 20 per cent of those depending on food banks are children. Today’s inflation makes it worse.

Recently in our house we watched the movie The Swimmers. At the beginning of the true story, the two young women, Yusra and her sister Sarah Mardini, are living a good life in Syria. The daughters of a man who had been a competitive swimmer until he was forced to give up his dream for compulsory service in the Syrian army, they have become the father’s way of accomplishing his hopes, climbing the ladder as internationallycompetitive swimmers.

But then civil war breaks out in Syria early last decade. Things become worse and worse and finally it’s decided the girls should escape to Europe. They can’t just take a plane, however. They must sneak out of the country.

After clandestine bus rides, they arrive at the edge of the Aegean Sea, where they pay smugglers to get them to Europe (luckily their father has provided them with sufficient money). There, they are eventually provided with a flimsy boat and embark for Europe, among 18 refugees. They soon discover the boat is overloaded and may sink, but the sisters save the day by getting in the water and swimming several miles until they reach shore safely.

The struggle isn’t over, however. Flooded with people fleeing the Middle East and Africa, the refugees find little welcome in Europe.

Finally, controversially, German Chancelor Angela Merkel offers safe haven for the refugees.

Eventually, Yusra resumes swimming and participates in the Rio Olympics in 2016 as a member of the Refugee Olympic Team, swimming the butterfly leg and winning a race.

In the final credits of the film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September before showing on Netflix, it states that Sarah, who had returned to Lesbos as part of voluntary efforts to assist incoming refugees in 2016, had been arrested and faced charges carrying potentially long-term prison sentences, if convicted.

The more times change, the more they stay the same. At the first Christmas, Joseph and Mary, Jesus’s worldly parents, were attending Bethlehem to register in the census of the foreign rulers from Rome. Three decades later, Pontius Pilate, governor of the Roman province of Judaea, agrees to Jesus’ death to satisfy Jewish leaders who see him as a charlatan.

Whether in Biblical days, in the time of Dickens, recent Europe flooded by refugees or Canadian streets where the homeless sleep outside in bitter winter weather, man’s inhumanity to man is a constant reality.

This is the time of the year when we are supposed to show the best of humanity. Many do, collecting clothing for people in shelters or food for food banks. Unfortunately, many people are like Scrooge before his enlightenment by the ghostly visitations, worried only for their own betterment. Better that we should be like little Tiny Tim and wish “God Bless us every one!”

A farewell to a dozen years and 10 months

S

ome of you may have already heard, but, like anything else, it’s not official until it comes from the horse’s mouth: I’ve officially left North Huron Publishing and The Citizen.

After nearly 13 years, I felt it was time for a change, as I just didn’t have the same drive to come into the office every morning. For a little while now, I’ve been restless at best, and downright concerned at worst, that either I wasn’t the same person, the news industry wasn’t the same beast or the community wasn’t part of the same world it was when I found my way to Blyth for the first time in February of 2010.

It’s been a remarkable 154 months since I first stepped foot into (since retired) Publisher Keith Roulston’s office wondering just where I would fit in if I got a job at The Citizen. I had been told by my former boss, Dave Sykes at The Goderich Signal-Star that after a restructuring from higher up, I would be laid off and he directed me to Blyth and Keith, saying I would have a chance to learn a lot here. He was right.

Since then I’ve gotten to know the folks of this community and been a part of some pretty memorable events, some annual like the reunion of the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association, and some once-in-alifetime events like the 100th International Plowing Match held in Walton in 2017.

It’s been quite a ride, literally and figuratively, as I’ve travelled to every corner of Huron County and beyond to talk to folks about issues that are important to them and, aside from the COVID-19 pandemic and a motor vehicle collision, I probably wouldn’t change much about the past 12 years and 10 months.

Anyway, this isn’t meant to be a trip down

Denny Scott Denny’s Den Memory Lane, but a goodbye to all the wonderful folks I have met and worked with in The Citizen’s coverage area and beyond. From the community members who not only champion the work we do, but also give us stories to write, to the council members who make important decisions, giving us something to cover (and people at the coffee shops something to chat about), to the wonderful people I’ve worked with in The Citizen’s office.

I’ve loved being a part of your community events, your announcements, your school events (and recess on more than one occasion), your sporting events and your best days.

I respect the fact that some of you worked with me on your worst days, and I’ll never begrudge anyone who just couldn’t do that.

Most of all, I want to say thank you for the respect that nearly everyone I’ve worked with or for has shown me. While a great many politicians, both here and abroad, would like to believe journalists are less than human and only out to parasitically drain others, I could have mitts on and count the number of times those sentiments were shared here. Almost all of you say (and hopefully believe) that your small town newspaper is here to help you know what’s going on, show pictures of your children and grandchildren and give a place for people to debate the decisions of the day.

You will still see me around town; I’ve put a little bit too much of myself into this community to leave it. My wife Ashleigh will continue to be happy to help you at the local hardware store. My daughter will still go to a local school. We will still live in the same place.

I, however, am making a 30-minute-or-so drive every work day to South Bruce, where I’ve signed on to work for the municipality.

As I told North Huron Publishing Company Publisher Deb Sholdice, if I were to keep being a journalist, it would have been at The Citizen, but I felt I needed to get out of the industry before I soured on it.

Again, thank you to everyone in the community, at the municipalities, at the county and here at The Citizen for all the years of wonderful experiences I’ve had.

Finally, if you really miss finding out exactly what is on my mind week-to-week, I guess you’ll just have to track me down because my life in print, as of next week’s column (after all, I couldn’t leave our loyal readers hanging at Christmas), is at an end. À bientôt, see you soon.

Final Thought "Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand."

– Albert Einstein

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

Capturing history

Y

ou don’t need me to tell you that we live in the era of selfies. Everyone takes them every day, whether it be for social media, or just to preserve a memory, we are constantly taking pictures of ourselves and our loved ones. The reason we’re doing this is that just about all of us have an extremely high-powered camera in our pockets now at all times.

Maybe I’m a bit biased because it’s what I do for a living, but there’s just no substitute for a picture - candid or posed - taken by someone who knows what they’re doing with the proper equipment.

I remember I had the first cell phone in the province (or the country, I can’t remember) that had a camera. Not the very first one, of course, but the first model. That was back when I worked for Rogers and we were able to find out about these kinds of things before they made their way to the general public. The pictures it took were awful (I know I took more than one picture at a concert with those old flip phones that just looked like a spot of light in the middle of a sea of black, kind of like seeing Las Vegas from a plane at night) but it was a phone that took pictures. I had more than one of my friends ask me why I needed a camera in my phone, but I think the subsequent 20 years have proven me right.

So now, here we are. We’re in the iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy era and phones have replaced just about everything. It’s your camera, it’s your television and movie theatre, it’s your information source, it’s the way you communicate with the world and yes, the odd time you might even make a phone call with it.

The pictures we take with our phones are essential. As the father of a two-and-a-halfyear-old girl, not a week has gone by that I haven’t taken a picture or a video of my little girl and those memories are priceless. When I was a kid, hauling out the camera was a chore and, furthermore, you had to develop film which both took time and cost money. So, you weren’t capturing those everyday moments you only bothered to take pictures or video for special occasions. People my age have a lot of pictures from birthdays, Christmases, vacations or other special occasions like a First Communion, and not a lot of candid, everyday pictures - it was just too much of a pain.

So, while I’m not going to run down having a cell phone camera at the ready at all times, there is something about a professional taking your picture that just feels different.

Last Saturday, Jess, Tallulah and I were joined by Jess’s parents at the Santa Claus parade here in Blyth. I was busy holding Tallulah for the most part, so I didn’t take any pictures of my own, but Jess took a few and they were lovely memories from the day.

When I got into the office on Monday morning, our photographer John Stephenson had e-mailed, telling me that he had taken a number of pictures of us, mostly me and Tallulah, at the parade as we watched and he worked. The pictures are hard to beat.

So, while the market for pictures taken by photographers at The Citizen, for example, may not be what it used to be, with everyone with a smartphone thinking they’re Annie Leibovitz, there is something to be said for a picture taken by someone who knows what they’re doing, using the right equipment and capturing a moment in your life.

The saying goes that newspapers are the rough first draft of history. Well, that goes for images too and, as someone who’s been at it now for over 16 years, who’s seen people grow up and grow old, there’s value in that.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Brussels Ministerial hosts annual holiday service A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

A musical holiday On Sunday, Melville Presbyterian Church in Brussels played host to the village’s annual Christmas church service and concert, bringing all of the village’s churches together under one roof. The service has been a staple of the holidays in Brussels for years, bringing both congregations and choirs together for Christmas. (John Stephenson photo) Moving right along in December, we have now noted hope, peace and joy in the Advent weeks leading up to Christmas. These are the roots

and the reason that Christmas persists after over 2,000 years.

People, regimes, fads and habits come and go, but the need for hope,

peace and joy is always in every person. These are the weeks when we ponder and prepare for the season of Christmas and how the

At the Branch

Zone inspection held in Brussels

By Jo-Ann McDonald The week at the Brussels Legion Branch began with the general meeting and the zone inspection by Zone Commander Jon Corbett. His job entails inspecting all financial books and the secretary books, making sure all have the appropriate signatures and entries.

The regular meeting then followed.

We had successful dart teams participate in seniors darts, and regular darts are coming. The Brussels Blyth Peewee hockey team participated in the Legion Hockey Tournament last weekend.

They had a good time playing their two games, but did not advance to the final games. Congratulations to the Peewee team.

There has been a furnace issue at the Branch. A whining sound is emitting from the exhaust pipe and is very noticeable at night. The Branch is aware and it is being corrected. Thanks for the calls and letting us know.

The Branch passed a donation to the Cadet Corp for all their help with the poppy campaign. They stuffed the poppy envelopes, attended the door-to-door canvas and the Nov. 11 service to place wreaths. Good job Cadets. Youth between the ages of 12 and 19 are welcome to stop in and see what cadets are all about on Tuesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. It is a free program to those interested.

The poppy committee reported it was a successful poppy campaign, with donations down just slightly.

The necessary reports have been submitted to the zone level chairman.

The Branch has had a very successful poster campaign with 68 entries. The prizes have been presented to the winners. Public speaking is next on the agenda and will be held in February. It is time

for college or university students of Legion members to think about applying for a grant from the Bursary Fund of the Ontario Command. Drop into the Legion for an application or call and speak with Comrade Sandra or Nanci Ducharme.

The entertainment committee has been busy and has many events coming in the new year. There will be a dance for Valentine’s Day with the Lucky Charms in February. The Christmas meat draws are on Dec. 23. There will be three regular draws and one mega draw. They will start at 6:30 p.m. and then there will be a break for the Catch the Ace draw and then they will continue. The quilt draw will also be held that evening. There will also be pulled pork available for pub grub. We will also have Cappy Onn performing during the evening.

It will be a busy night around the Branch, so drop by early! Pub grub for Friday, Dec. 16 is chili and on Dec. 23 it’s pulled pork.

We have accepted the resignation of part-time bartender B.J. Hummel with regret. Some health issues have dictated she slow down and we are very sad to see her leave us after eight years. We hope her issues improve and that she drops into the Branch to visit on occasion.

Best of luck B.J. and take care. See you around town!

Head bartender Sandra will cover the Friday shift with help from parttime bartender Nanci Ducharme.

The next general meeting would be on Dec. 27, but it has been cancelled due to the proximity of the Dec. 6 meeting.

There was only a smaller-thanexpected turnout for a visit with Santa at the Branch following the Santa Claus parade. There were treat bags left over and they were donated to the Blyth Legion for the

Blyth Santa Claus parade.

Comrade Eric Ross presented Andy Kelly, the owner of Brussels Foodland with a cheque for $500 for the North Huron Community Food Share last week, which was a donation from Branch 218 Brussels Legion.

Remember Thursday night darts is cancelled until Jan. 12. Have a Merry Christmas darters and come back ready to play.

The Catch the Ace draw on Friday evening had Karen Bowles the weekly winner. She won $154 and chose envelope number 16 and the seven of clubs was revealed.

The estimated jackpot for next week is $4,400. Get your tickets today. What a great Christmas present it would be if you won!

Friday evening was the second time for a progressive euchre night.

There was a great turnout with 24 teams hoping to be winners.

Winners were: first, Loree and Doreen; second, Vern and Ken, and third, Kendra and Cheryl. The next euchre is Jan. 20 Register early to be on the list of teams.

Sunday afternoon had the Richmond Christmas at the Branch.

Comrade Sandra Brown and helpers Linda Bird, Allyson Cardiff and Kathy Burkholder fed the hungry family.

The Lions held their Christmas party on Monday evening.

Members and their spouses enjoyed a meal planned by members Lions Janet, Cora and Jean and Comrades Jo-Ann, Linda Bird, Judy Lee, Kathy Burkholder, Deb Ross and Mabel Glanville. The Lions now won’t be meeting again until January.

BUY? SELL? TRY CLASSIFIED

people in our lives bring these to us.

For the post-secondary gang all over Ontario, they are praying heavily for these – peace, hope and joy – as exams are on the horizon and will determine their future direction. Good luck and study well.

Gatherings continue as we connect with friends and family.

For us, this week, it was a gathering of the 1970s Guelph student nurses.

A new bit for us this time was fun without Brent, who died last month.

It was our usual giggle and gab, with moments of contemplation tossed in. For anyone afraid to die, they should have been here talking about Brent, who had made all sorts of plans for his last trip from earth.

Jan made it very plain that it was the love of people in their lives that made this part of their marriage a blessing and a joy. Being Brent, part of the reason for our gathering was for Jan to bring his things to the 5Rs. He has supported the store for years, so it was just sensible that he would organize his last gift to us. No tears for Brent, just smiles and knowing he will

enjoy the next road he encounters.

The Brussels Ministerial welcomed the community to Melville Presbyterian Church on Sunday. Preparing for the season, people came and enjoyed the effort made by the ministers, Mary Douma, and the combined choir.

Carols and scripture, anthems and stories reminded those in attendance of the impending birth that changed the world. It was a lovely way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

Take care of yourself. Keep your mask handy and apply it when you see the need. Be kind and respectful to everyone you meet.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner Winning Ticket: Karen Bowles $154 Envelope #16 found the 7of Clubs Estimated jackpot for December 16 is $4,400

Brussels Legion 218

Christmas Meat Draws December 23rd starting at 6:30 pm Three draws and 1 Mega draw!

The quilt draw will also take place Pub grub for Friday, December 23rd is pulled pork Cappy Onn will be entertaining at 7:30 pm

INTERNATIONAL YOUTH EXCHANGE Brussels Lions Club is participating in the Summer 2023 Lions Club International Youth Exchange for applicants aged 16 to 20.

Those interested are encouraged to email their name and contact information to brusselslionsclub.a9@gmail.com no later than December 31, 2022

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 7.

Spread cheer this holiday says Craig Merry Christmas to feel. I met someone I didn’t know on the street the other day and he only said hello, but it gave me the warmest feeling that someone took the time to say hello.

Stay safe this coming week and give someone a call just to say hello.

From Marilyn’s Desk

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

Blyth welcomed Santa Claus to the village on Saturday for the annual Santa Claus parade and Blyth Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt and his daughters Goldie and Gloria were among those there to spread some holiday cheer. (John Stephenson photo)

MT changes mun. office hours Morris-Turnberry Council voted to change the municipal office hours to a static model after reviewing the issue multiple times over the past several years.

During council’s Dec. 6 meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Trevor Hallam explained to council that he felt the current office hours, which change seasonally, were unnecessarily confusing for ratepayers and didn’t provide a benefit to staff.

Prior to the change, the office was open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday from September to June and 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday. During the summer months of July and August, the office was open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Monday to Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday.

“To simplify scheduling requirements, provide more predictability in the operation hours of the office and bring the hours of the office in line with other municipal offices in the area, staff recommend changing the hours of the office to 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, throughout the year,” Hallam said in his report.

Hallam had brought the issue to council’s attention in 2021, at which time council decided to keep the status quo. Prior to deciding that, however, council members said they were concerned about increasing staff wages for fewer hours worked and that it would be difficult for ratepayers to attend the office during office hours.

Hallam said the first concern wasn’t an issue, as pay would remain the same since administrative staff currently work on two shifts during the longer workdays. Some staff come in from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., while others come in from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Aside from having to schedule who comes in when, which Hallam said would be an unnecessary step with a static schedule, the current operational hours resulted in people being alone in the office at the end of the day. He said that was a concern partly because of someone not having help if there was an issue with a ratepayer, but primarily because someone could injure themselves and be alone in the office at that time.

As far as ratepayers not being able to access the office, Hallam

said staff’s research indicated the majority of people coming to the office do so between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Staff researched the issue, looking at the period between Sept.

13 and Oct. 21 of this year. This was a four-year high, as far as visitors to the office, Hallam said, since it was an election year and there was a tax bill due in that period. The majority of visitors came in between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., showing that the extra half hour wasn’t necessarily required.

He went on to say that the people visiting the office are either doing so for work or one-off situations, like needing building permits, or aren’t bound by a workday. He also said that there aren’t really “walkins” for senior staff as most issues must be scheduled ahead of time.

Furthermore, Hallam said that, while he doesn’t require staff to do so, they have offered to meet people after hours where necessary.

“Based on these patterns… I am confident that the needs of the ratepayers will be met if the office

hours are adjusted as proposed,” Hallam wrote.

Councillor Sharen Zinn said she would move the issue because it was obviously important as it had been brought back to council three times. Other council members complimented Hallam on the report, saying it was wellresearched.

The change was carried unanimously by council HOLIDAY HOURS Council also set the holiday hours for the municipal office during the meeting, deciding that the office will be closed from Wednesday, Dec. 28 to Tuesday, Jan. 3.

Hallam explained that would mean the office is closed for three days that weren’t already holidays, and that staff may still be present during those days, however the office won’t be open.

“We’re not forcing anyone to take time off,” he said, adding some staff may choose to come in. “This is a good time to wrap up end-ofyear issues and address new issues without the demands of having the doors open.”

2023 Regular Council Meeting Calendar for the Township of North Huron

NEWS FROM BLYTH

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Babies of the Year

That time of year

Happy birthday to Jennifer Pierce of London, who will celebrate on Dec. 16.

Although we received a covering of snow this past week, the temperatures have been hovering around the 0°C. On Tuesday morning, when we got up, it was 9°C but by mid-afternoon the temperature had risen and the sun has been shining all morning.

I have something for everyone to do this coming week. When you are out doing that last-minute shopping, wish those you meet on the street wherever you live a Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. It is surprising how it will make you feel and how good it will make the person you are wishing

2022

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

Join the gallery of new faces in The Citizen's baby photo display January 20, 2023 Email a jpeg of your little one born in 2022 along with a writeup which includes full name, birth date and parents' names and then call us, stop in or pay by e-transfer, credit card or mail a cheque (payable to North Huron Publishing) to prepay.

ONLY $30.00 (must be prepaid)

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 North Huron Theatre at 274 Josephine Street, Wingham and shall commence at 6:00 p.m. unless altered by resolution of Council. For further information, please see the Township of North Huron website: www.northhuron.ca Monday, January 16 Monday, February 6 Monday, March 6 Monday, April 3 Monday, May 1 Monday, June 5 Monday, July 3 Monday, August 7 Monday, September 5 Monday, October 2 Monday, November 6 Monday, December 4

Only one meeting in January Monday, February 21 Monday, March 20 Monday, April 17 Monday, May 15 Monday, June 19 Monday, July 17 Only one meeting in August Monday, September 18 Monday, October 16 Monday, November 20 Monday, December 18

Season's Greetings From Council and Staff

Please Complete Baby's Full Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Birth Date _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Parents' Names _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

$30.00 Enclosed

DEADLINE - January 13 at 2:00 pm Email: info@northhuron.on.ca 519-523-4792

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Sports Huron Heat teams impressive in December

Stick with it The U13 C Huron Heat team was in action on Sunday, welcoming the Stratford Aces to Clinton. The locals embraced the home ice advantage and won the contest by the slimmest of margins: 1-0. (John Stephenson photo)

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen The Huron Heat girls’ hockey season continues, with its U11B squad finding success in the Guelph Winter Classic tournament, which ran from Dec. 8-11.

On Sunday, Dec. 11, the U11B Huron Heat took on the Saugeen Shores Storm and claimed a 1-0 win. This came after they defeated the Niagara Rapids by a score of 21 earlier in the day.

Also on Dec. 11, the U18BB Heat beat the Southpoint Stars on the road by a score of 1-0. The U13C Heat took on the Mitchell Meteors on the road, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The U9B team took on the Woodstock Wildcats and there was no score, while the U11C Heat beat the Stratford Aces in Stratford by a score of 4-0.

The U13C Heat beat the Stratford Aces in Clinton by a score of 1-0 and the U15BB squad was the only

Heat team to post a loss that day, falling to the South Huron Sabres by a score of 1-0.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, the U11B Heat beat the Haldimand River Cats in tournament action by a score of 4-1, while the U18C Heat’s game against South Huron was cancelled.

The Senior team was in Wilmot, but a score was unavailable at press time, while the U18BB Heat played the London Devilettes in Clinton, winning by a score of 2-1.

The U13C team was in

Tillsonburg and beat the Lightning by a score of 3-1, while the U15BB team lost to the London Devilettes in London by a score of 1-0, the U13B Heat beat the Woolwich Wild on the road by a score of 3-0 and the U15C Heat tied the Woodstock Wildcats at one on the road.

The U11HL Heat tied the Woodstock Wildcats at two in Blyth, while the U9B and U9HL teams were in action against Woolwich and Lucan, respectively, in Seaforth in half-ice games with no score.

On Friday, Dec. 9, the U11B Heat had a three-win day in their tournament, beating the Guelph Junior Gryphons 8-0, the Durham West Lightning 3-0 and the St. Catharines Junior Badgers 3-0.

Also that day, the U13B Heat were in Seaforth hosting the St. Marys Rock and came away with a 3-2 win.

On Thursday, Dec. 8, the U11C Heat played South Huron on the road and beat them by a score of 10, while the U15C Heat hosted the Central Perth Predators in Seaforth on Dec. 6, playing to a 1-1 tie.

The U15C team was in action again on Tuesday, Dec. 13 against the West Oxford Inferno in Seaforth, but a score was unavailable at press time. Similarly, the U15BB Heat played the Walkerton Capitals in Blyth on Dec. 15, but a score was unavailable at press time.

On Friday, the U18C Heat will be taking part in the annual Silver Stick tournament, hosted in Saugeen Shores. They’ll play the host Storm team at 8 p.m. that night.

That night, the U11HL Heat will host the St. Marys Rock in Blyth, while the U9HL Heat will be on the road to play the North Middlesex Junior Stars.

On Saturday, the U18C team has two Silver Stick games. The first is against the TCDMHA Rebels at 11

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Devon Henry 84772 McDonald Line • Box 616 • Brussels

devonjhenry@hotmail.com 519-505-2473

a.m. and the second is against the Kincardine Kinucks at 5 p.m.

The U18 BB Heat take on the Lambton Attack that night in Clinton, while the U15BB Heat play Bluewater on the road and the U11B Heat will play the Lucan Irish in Seaforth.

The U9B and U9HL teams will take on the London Devilettes and North Middlesex Junior Stars teams, respectively, in Seaforth for half-ice games, while the U11C team will play Stratford at the Blyth and District Community Centre.

On Sunday, Dec. 18, the U13C Heat will play the South Huron Sabres at the Central Huron Community Complex in Clinton, which will also be the venue for the U15BB Heat’s game against the Sarnia Lady Sting and the U15C hosting the Woodstock Wildcats later that day.

The U13B Heat will host the Collingwood Lightning in Goderich that morning and the Senior team will play the Stratford Aces, welcoming them to Hensall.

The U9HL White team will be in North Middlesex to play the Junior Stars that morning.

On Tuesday, Dec. 20, the U15C Heat will play the St. Marys Rock in Seaforth, while the U13B Heat will travel to Mount Forest for a game against the Rams on the night of Thursday, Dec. 22.

For more information or a full schedule, visit huronheat.com.

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Municipality of Morris-Turnberry MUNICIPAL LANDFILL HOLIDAY HOURS:

Not quite After the U13 C Huron Heat posted a 1-0 win over the Stratford Aces in Clinton on Sunday morning, the U15 BB Huron Heat posted the same score in the next game on the ice, but unfortunately they were on the wrong side of it, losing to the South Huron Sabres by a score of 1-0. (John Stephenson photo)

Saturday, December 24, 2022 – 9:00am to 1:00pm Wednesday, December 28, 2022 – 10:00am to 3:00pm Saturday, December 31, 2022 – 9:00 to 1:00pm Curbside Collection will take place as regularly scheduled.

Please see the Municipal website for more information www.morristurnberry.ca

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 9.

Sports U13 LL Crusaders heading to Canadian Tire tourney

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen This Saturday, the Blyth Brussels U13 Local League Crusaders will be heading to Hanover to take part in the annual one-day Canadian Tire Cup Tournament.

Weekend action for Crusaders teams begins on Friday, with four games on the schedule. The U8 Black Crusaders will be in Goderich to take on the Sailors, while the U11 Local League Black team will host Goderich in Brussels. The U11 Local League Burgundy team will play the Goderich Sailors White team on the road and the U21 Crusaders will host the Arthur Vipers in Brussels.

On Saturday, the U13 Local League team heads to Hanover for the Canadian Tire Cup Tournament, while the U21 team will host the Huron-Bruce Blizzard in Blyth.

Also in Blyth, the U6 team will host the Howick Hornets and the U7 Black and Burgundy teams will play against two Huron Heat teams.

The U13 Rep Crusaders will be in Brussels to host the Central Perth Predators, while the U9 team will also be in Brussels to play the Wingham Ironmen Yellow team.

The U15 Rep Crusaders will be on the road, taking on the Lakers in Shallow Lake.

On Sunday, Dec. 18, the U8 Black and Burgundy teams will both be in Blyth to host two Seaforth Star teams, followed by the U11 Local League Burgundy team hosting the Central Perth Predators and the U11 Rep team hosting the Minto Mad Dogs, also in Blyth.

The final game of that day will be on the road, when the U18 Rep team travels to Ingersoll.

On Monday, Dec. 19, the U11 Rep team will play the Mid-Huron Huskies C team in Hensall, while the U15 Local League Crusaders will play the Goderich Sailors in Blyth. The U21 team will be in Shallow Lake to play the Lakers and the U18 Local League team Continued on page 12

Just a bit outside With the holidays approaching, local ice surfaces have been busy with plenty of hockey and broomball action. On Saturday, the U13 Blyth Brussels Rep Crusaders took on the West Grey Warriors in Brussels, but the visitors proved to be too much, shutting out the home team by a score of 4-0. (John Stephenson photo)

Ironmen keep up winning ways DONATION FUND The Municipality of Central Huron is pleased to announce their annual Central Huron Donation Fund. The Municipality will again set aside funds to assist and promote community-based nonprofit organizations. Funding is also available for national and international non-profit organizations provided that they have a local branch or affiliate and whose programs demonstrate a direct benefit for the residents of our Municipality.

Organizations and/or community groups whose primary focus is not within the Municipality are eligible to apply for donations, however preference will be given to organizations and/or charities whose primary focus is within the Municipality.

To Qualify Organizations must be non-profit. Proposed programs or events must clearly demonstrate a direct social or economic benefit for residents of Central Huron. Successful organizations will be required to submit a post project report identifying the use of the funds.

Further information can be found on our website: h t t p s : // w w w. c e n t r a l h u r o n . c a / e n / b u s i n e s s - a n d development/donation-fund.aspx

Top corner The Wingham Ironmen were able to find the back of the net twice on Friday night in Wingham to beat the Kincardine Bulldogs by a score of 2-1. The Ironmen are now one point out of first place in the North Pollock Division of the Provincial Junior Hockey League and four away from the first-place Mount Forest Patriots. (John Stephenson photo) Continued from page 1 saved 30 of 32 shots for the Bulldogs’ loss.

Kincardine’s Joseph Pringle was penalized three times in the first period, serving a two-minute interference penalty at 9:18, a twominute head contact penalty at 18:23 (served by Caeleb Bowler) and another head contact penalty at 19:48 for two minutes once again.

Wingham’s Matt Tolton was also penalized for a head contact infraction at 18:23 of the first period, resulting in two minutes in the penalty box.

Wingham’s Nigel Kreager served two minutes for hooking at 8:29 of

the second period, followed by Kincardine’s Steven Grant for cross-checking (two minutes) at 12:03, Wingham’s Turner Mckenzie for charging at 12:03 (two minutes), Kincardine’s Cooper Schneider for cross-checking at 13:22 (two minutes), Wingham’s Dawson Fahrer for cross-checking at 14:31 (two minutes) and Wingham’s Tayt Bramhill for slashing at 16:29 (two minutes).

Kincardine’s Wilson Shipp was assessed the only penalty of the third period, two minutes for slashing.

The Mount Forest Patriots remain in first place in the league’s North

Pollock Division with a record 174-0-1 and 35 points. The Mitchell Hawks are in second place with a record of 14-4-2-2 and 32 points, followed closely by Wingham’s 31 points on a record of 14-6-2-1.

The Hanover Barons are in fourth place with a record of 13-5-2-1 and 29 points, followed by the Kincardine Bulldogs in fifth at 21 points and a record of 10-11-1-0, the sixth-place Walkerton Capitals with eight points on a record of 315-1-1 and the last-place Goderich Flyers with a record of 2-20-0-0, leaving them with just four points.

After the weekend, Wingham Continued on page 15

Application Applications for funding should include: • Description of program or event • Date of program or event • Organization budget for proposed program or event • Targeted resident group, if appropriate • Supporting information including statistics for previous similar projects • Amount of funding requested, specifying whether a cash or in-kind donation is required.

If your organization has questions or comments they should be directed to the undersigned at 519-482-3997 Ext. 1230 or email records@centralhuron.com.

Applications clearly marked Central Huron Donation Fund are to be received by the undersigned on Friday, March 31, 2023: Nicole Lowe, Records Clerk Municipality of Central Huron 23 Albert St. PO Box 400 Clinton, Ontario N0M 1L0 records@centralhuron.com

PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

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Morris-Turnberry Council has decided to allow a local developer to sever and build on one new property in Lower Town, but, per the nutrient study for the lands, limited the development to two single-unit dwellings.

During council’s Dec. 6 meeting, Huron County Planner Meghan Tydd-Hrynyk presented two applications for the project: a consent application which council could recommend Huron County Council approve, and a zoning bylaw amendment that council could approve themselves.

Tydd-Hrynyk recommended denial of the zoning application, saying it didn’t follow local, county or provincial documents.

The applicant had submitted a nitrate study report for the two properties as requested, which had, under the Ministry of the Environment Guidelines, demonstrated that 2.3 units could be sustained on the two properties, rounded down to one unit per property.

Tydd-Hrynyk said there had also been comments received from neighbours who were against the development.

Despite knowing that only two units would be supported by the planning department, Joe Reinhardt, who applied for the applications, maintained he wanted to build a fourplex on one property and retain a single detached house on the other.

Councillor Sharen Zinn asked if there were any stipulations as to the size of the unit in relation to the nutrient study and was told no. She then said that Reinhardt could build a 15-bedroom house that she believed would generate more effluence than a fourplex.

Tydd-Hrynyk said that, typically, a single unit is defined as a threeunit home.

Zinn moved to allow the fourplex to be built, which was seconded by Councillor Jamie McCallum.

Deputy-Mayor Kevin Freiburger was against it, however, saying council had just finished being certified through a clean water program and that council’s responsibility in the situation was to protect the groundwater.

“We have a report here saying only two units can be supported,” he said. “I think we’d be doing the wrong thing by not following the recommendations of the report.”

Heffer agreed, saying that if council were to go against the recommendations of the planners, council members have to be aware of the situation that puts them in.

Zinn’s motion was defeated with only her and McCallum voting for it.

Freiburger moved the originallyrecommended motion, which was to rezone both properties to allow for single detached units.

Zinn, however, felt council wasn’t doing its job by not questioning the word of its experts.

“If we’re just going to follow exactly what the planners are telling us and not look any further, why are we here?” she asked. “Why don’t we just put the motion through [as presented every time]?”

Heffer said the municipality has a Continued on page 11

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 11.

Council to limit project

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Continued from page 10 responsibility to follow good planning practices and, in this situation, the applicant’s own nitrate study set the limitations.

Zinn questioned the issue further, saying that you could have 15 people in a house or eight in a fourplex.

Tydd-Hrynyk said the recommendation is based on science, not what planners felt should or shouldn’t be there, and that the consultants who prepare the reports are experts in their field.

The planner’s job is to take those reports and make recommendations to council based on that input.

Zinn continued to fight against the recommendation, saying that if things were so strict 30 years ago, there would be no houses in Lower Town.

McCallum asked if Bill 23, the controversial, the More Homes Built Faster Act, would change Tydd-Hrynyk’s recommendation and she explained that Bill 23 was primarily focused on municipallyserviced properties, not properties like those in Lower Town that are on private servicing.

Council first voted to recommend Huron County Council allow the severance to go forward with each property being zoned VR-1, Special to permit a single detached dwelling on each, then, later voted to refuse the application to amend the zoning bylaw to allow for the multi-unit development, leaving the property under the VR-1 Special zoning.

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The Citizen Several Seaforth residents and business owners are asking Huron East Council to step in and demand the removal of parking blockades in order to create a fire lane adjacent to the town’s main street on the west side.

A handful of Seaforth main street business owners, including Kim Blok, Pete Martene, Sanjeev Jaswal and Katie and Darren Janmaat, addressed council at its Dec. 6 meeting, which was held inperson at the municipal office in Seaforth.

Kim Blok and Katie Janmaat spoke to council on behalf of the group, asking that council consider getting involved. They told council that, several months ago, several parking blockades were placed by a business owner behind the buildings, as a result, limiting the ability to travel behind the buildings and delivery truck access to several businesses.

They said that while the blockades have been an inconvenience for the business owners, their real concern was regarding safety and access for fire trucks and paramedics in the event Continued on page 18

PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Radford praises Blyth Santa Claus parade

The big day Santa Claus was in Blyth on Saturday for the village’s annual Santa Claus parade, much to the delight of the hundreds who lined the main street for a glimpse of the big man.

After the parade wrapped up, he then visited with some of the village’s youth in front of Memorial Hall, armed with plenty of gift bags to hand out. (John Stephenson photo)

Leigh Hodges reminds us: “Life begins anew each morning... Each morning is the open door to a new world –new vistas, new aims, new tryings.”

Hullett Central Public School plans to see this school term out in a Christmas way. Next week, each

day has been designated for some special Christmas attire. Monday is Christmas hat/hair day and Tuesday is Christmas sock day. On Wednesday, students can wear Christmas pyjamas, but on Thursday it is Christmas sweater day. To round out the week, Friday is called Christmas Clothes Day. Wouldn’t it be fun to just drop in on any one of those days and have a look-see? Do you recall having such fun when you went to elementary school?

Licensed Lay Worship Leader Sue Barnett led the service at Londesborough United Church on Sunday, Dec. 11, the third Sunday of Advent. The Kreuger teenagers, Ilianna, Audrey and Dillon, lit the

candle of Joy that morning and hung the banner.

Sue shared two lovely Christmas music videos with the congregation as prelude and postlude. The choir sang the hymn “Joy Is Now In Every Place.”

The scripture passages that formed the basis of Sue’s reflection were Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10 and Luke 1 47 - 55. She reminded everyone that nothing in the world is the same since the birth of Christ.

We need to strive for peace with God and with one another.

Londesborough United Church’s congregation gratefully acknowledges the monetary donation they received from the former Knox United Church in

U15 Rep Crusaders beat Huskies Continued from page 9 will host the Mitchell Meteors in Blyth.

On Tuesday, Dec. 20, the U9 Crusaders will host the Wallace Sabres in Brussels, while the U18 Rep team will travel to Mitchell to take on the Meteors.

There are four games on the schedule on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

First, the U9 team will play the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth, followed by the U13 Local League Crusaders hosting the Howick Hornets in Blyth, the U11 Local League Black team playing the Meteors in Mitchell and the U18 Local League team travelling to Hensall to play the Mid-Huron Huskies.

On Thursday, Dec. 22, there’s only one Crusader game on the calendar, and it’s the U13 Rep team travelling to Wingham for a game against the Ironmen.

On Sunday, Dec. 11, the U18 Rep team beat the AEMHA Ice Dogs in Chesley by a score of 4-2, while the U11 Rep team hosted the Wingham Ironmen in Blyth, beating them by a score of 8-4.

The U11 Local League Black squad played the Burgundy team,

with the latter claiming a 5-4 victory. The U13 Rep Crusaders travelled to Walkerton for a game against the Capitals, but a score was unavailable at press time.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, the U13 Local League team lost by a score of 4-1 to the Huron-Bruce Blizzard in Ripley, the same score the U15 Rep Shallow Lake Lakers posted to defeat the Crusaders in Blyth that day. The U13 Rep team was also in action that day, hosting the West Grey Warriors in Brussels, losing by a score of 4-0.

The U15 Local League team played the Mount Forest Rams in Brussels that afternoon, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The U7 Black team played the Cyclones in Listowel, the U7 Burgundy team hosted the Howick Hornets in Blyth and the U6 team travelled to Goderich for a game with the Sailors, but no scores were kept for those games.

On Friday, Dec. 9, the U11 Local League Crusaders shutout the Goderich Sailors White team by a score of 9-0, while the U8 Burgundy team travelled to Goderich for a game against the Sailors, but a score wasn’t kept.

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the U13 Local League team beat the MidHuron Huskies in Hensall by a score of 5-4, while the U11 Rep team tied the Meteors in Mitchell 33 and the U11 Local League Black squad beat the Central Perth Predators by a score of 4-0 in Blyth.

The U9 team travelled to Howick for a game with the Hornets, but a score was not kept for that game.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, the U15 Rep Crusaders hosted the Mid-Huron Huskies in Brussels, winning the contest by a score of 7-3.

On Monday, Dec. 12, the U15 Local League team hosted the Minto Mad Dogs and the U18 Local League Crusaders hosted the Walkerton Capitals, both in Blyth, but scores were unavailable at press time.

On Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre played host to two games: the U15 Rep team taking on the Mitchell Meteors and the U18 Rep team battling the Bruce Peninsula Predators, but scores were unavailable at press time.

For more information, visit blythbrusselsminorhockey.ca.

Auburn as a result of the closing of that church.

Next Sunday, Dec. 18, Rev. Jan Aylward will offer the Sacrament of Communion during the morning worship.

If you were still planning to drop

by Nature’s Nest to pick up a real Christmas tree this year you are too late. Speaking to one of the Londesborough Lions Club members on Dec. 10, I learned that all 175 trees they offered this year were gone by that date. Upon investigation I learned real conifers are in short supply as a result of high demand, labour issues and extreme growing conditions. Also, it seems there are considerably fewer tree farms currently. All these factors led to fewer trees and a price up to 20 per cent higher than in previous years.

BLYTH SANTA CLAUS PARADE Mother Nature chose to look kindly on Blyth this past Saturday and offered up a pleasant day for the village’s Santa Claus parade.

Consequently, I believe every Blyth resident and then some turned out to welcome Old St. Nick for the parade route was lined with spectators. The organizers are to be commended in that the parade started exactly on time and flowed along with nary a hold-up.

The two bands were nicely spaced out so the music seemed to be ever-present but not clashing.

The Clinton Pipe Band was a crowd-pleaser, as was the Seaforth Girls Marching Band. Another interesting entry was a dance studio whose members performed a musical number using coloured ribbons.

There was quite a contrast between the cow family, actually

the Bylsma family, that ambled along giving out little bottles of milk and the quiet young couple dressed in elegant Victorian attire who graciously acknowledged onlookers.

It seems there are uses for those old propane cylinders after all as demonstrated by a welding shop’s float. Small ones make wellrounded bodies for imaginative reindeer. Larger ones painted pink serve as pigs and the even larger ones make a huge, fun snowman.

There were two entries from Londesborough. The Lions Club’s van pulled a trailer with a stylized old fashioned cutter. John and Jane Hoggart greeted onlookers from the cutter. Townsend Tire recycled various sized tires, painted them green and had a spectacular Christmas tree on their entry.

And what would Blyth be without a huge rutabaga in the parade?

NEWS FROM LONDESBORO

FAÇADE GRANT PROGRAM – APPLICATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED The Municipality of Central Huron is pleased to announce their annual 2023 Central Huron Façade Grant Program. The Program includes Façade improvements for properties in Central Huron that are assessed as Commercial. The Municipality has set aside funds to help assist property owners in the expansion or improvement of the building Façade or signage. The goal of the program is to enhance the appearance of commercial businesses and by doing so refresh the sense of pride within the community. Please note that the Municipality reserves the right to fund projects as deemed appropriate.

How to Apply: Program details and Application Forms are available at www.centralhuron.ca.

Applications must be received to the undersigned by

February 28, 2023 by 4:30pm:

“Central Huron Façade Grant Program” Attention: Nicole Lowe, Records Clerk Municipality of Central Huron 23 Albert Street Clinton, Ontario N0M 1L0 Tel: 519 482 3997 Fax: 519 482 9183 info@centralhuron.com If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact Nicole Lowe at 519-482-3997 Ext. 1230.

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 13.

BLYTH Y 519-523-4244

+XURQ7UDFWRU FRP

Brussels Livestock report

Fed steers, heifers sell actively, at higher prices Total receipts for the Brussels Livestock for the week ending Dec. 9 were 1,630 cattle and 1,257 lambs and goats.

On Tuesdays, fed steers and heifers sold actively at prices $3 to $5 higher. Choice steers and heifers sold $192 to $199 with sales to $204. Second-cut cattle sold $180 to $191. Aged and medium-fed steers and heifers sold $145 to $178. Holstein steers and heifers

sold $125 to $175. Cows sold steady.

On Thursday, veal sold actively at steady prices. Lambs sold higher.

Sheep and goats sold steady.

On Friday, calves sold on a strong trade at higher prices. Yearlings sold on a strong active trade at steady prices.

L&A Black of Proton Station, consigned 12 head. Six gold steers averaged 1,403 lbs. and sold for an

average price of $199.

KC McAlpine Farms of Ailsa Craig, consigned seven head. Two charolais heifers averaged 1,493 lbs. and sold for an average price of $196.

There were 350 cows on offer.

Beef sold $86 to $130; good holstein cows, $85 to $115; medium holstein cows, $65 to $85.

Bulls sold $115 to $149.

There were 145 head of veal on

A fitting celebration Residents, colleagues, local politicians and family and friends all came together in Blyth on Sunday to honour Marty Bedard, the retiring fire chief for North Huron, MorrisTurnberry and Huron East. The day involved a ceremony honouring Bedard’s storied career and several presentations, one of which was a framed photographic montage of Bedard’s departments. (John Stephenson photo)

Huron’s Wallace on mental health

By Ethan Wallace, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture When an athlete wins a major tournament, an Olympic medal or a world championship, it’s that sweet moment of victory and triumph that makes the headlines. It’s less often that you hear about the years of hard work, sacrifice and determination that helped them reach that level of success – and even rarer to hear about times of trial and failure.

As a delegate at the recent Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) annual meeting, I was lucky enough to have that opportunity.

Jeff Adams, Canadian wheelchair racer, Paralympian and world champion, was our keynote speaker and he mesmerized the audience as he shared his life story with us.

Growing up on a farm, a successful treatment for an early childhood cancer caused lasting

damage that eventually took his mobility when he was only nine years old. He’d always been passionate about sports and eventually found his place with wheelchair racing. In competing for Canada from 1988 to 2008, he became a three-time Paralympic champion and six-time world champion.

After retiring from competition, he founded and sold two medical device companies before going to law school. Today, he works for a Toronto law firm, specializing in labour, employment and human rights law. He’s also been inducted into the Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame.

During his presentation, Adams spoke eloquently about how easy it was to talk about being surrounded by excellence after a victory, but that it was even more important to do so on days when he didn’t win – like at the Barcelona Paralympic Games in 1992 when he had a

wheel break during a championship race and ended up finishing in last place.

His life experiences of resilience, perseverance and striving for excellence in sport are themes that are common to agriculture too and what we work to do every day as farmers.

I farm in Huron County with my wife and three children near the town of Seaforth. We took over our family farm from my parents, who had previously taken over the farm from my grandparents. With each generation, how we farm has evolved as science and innovation help us constantly find new ways to do things better, like new practices for healthier soils and a better environment, for example.

My own drive for excellence is one shared by many farmers – we want to one day turn our farms over to our children in even better shape Continued on page 16

offer. Beef veal sold $200 to $230; good holsteins, $200 to $229; SL heavy holsteins, $195 to $220; medium holsteins, $190 to $195; plain holsteins, $180 to $189.

Murray Burkhart of Linwood, consigned nine head.

One simmental steer weighed 890 lbs. and sold for a price of $230.

Grant Bergsma of Londesborough, consigned two head. One holstein steer weighed 720 lbs. and sold for a price of $229.

Lambs under 50 lbs. sold $346 to $551; 50 - 64 lbs., $446 to $500; 65 - 79 lbs., $337 to $482.50; 80 - 94 lbs., $244 to $357.50; 95 - 109 lbs., $220.50 to $277.50; 110 lbs. and over, $222 to $245.

Goats: billies sold $250 to $350; nannies, $100 to $250; kids: meat, $300 to $490; dairy, $250 to $355.

Steve Hallam of Kincardine, consigned 27 head. Four lambs averaged 59 lbs. and sold for an average price of $500.

Todd Sheep Company of Lucknow consigned 14 head. Ten lambs averaged 60 lbs. and sold for an average price of $497.50.

Ian Croft of Blyth, consigned three head. Two kid goats averaged 50 lbs. and sold for an average price of $490.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $321 to $340; 400 499 lbs., $303 to $319; 500 - 599 lbs., $277.75 to $313; 600 - 699 lbs., $279 to $292; 700 - 799 lbs., $240.75 to $270; 800 - 899 lbs., $242.75 to $259; 900 - 999 lbs., $253.75 to $267.50; 1,000 lbs. and over, $246.50 to $262.

Top quality stocker heifers, 400 -

499 lbs. sold $254 to $290; 500 599 lbs., $229 to $260; 600 - 699 lbs., $233.50 to $243; 700 - 799 lbs., $219 to $228; 800 - 899 lbs., $209.50 to $232; 900 lbs. and over, $208.50 to $228.

Lloyd G. Martin of Kenilworth, consigned 11 head. Six charolais heifers averaged 953 lbs. and sold for an average price of $227.

Henry H. Martin of Lucknow, consigned 14 head. Three charolais heifers averaged 957 lbs. and sold for an average price of $225.50.

Carl Killeen of Pakenham, consigned 59 head. Eight charolais steers averaged 979 lbs. and sold for an average price of $263.

Elam B. Bowman of Lucknow, consigned seven head. Six charolais steers averaged 1,008 lbs. and sold for an average price of $262.

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK Division of Gamble & Rogers Ltd.

UPCOMING SALES TUESDAYS 10:00 a.m.

Fed Cattle, Bulls & Cows

THURSDAYS

9:00 a.m. Drop Calves 10:00 a.m.Veal 11:30 a.m. Lambs, Goats & Sheep

FRIDAYS

10:00 a.m. Stockers Visit our webpage at: www.brusselslivestock.ca email us at: info@brusselslivestock.ca

Call us 519-887-6461

The Citizen

519-523-4792 www.huroncitizen.ca

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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!

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 14. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Classified Advertisements – RATES – 20 words or less only $8.00 + HST Additional words 20¢ ea. + HST

DEADLINE 2 p.m. Tuesday Phone 519-523-4792 e-mail: info@northhuron.on.ca

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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, Fogal’s YIG in Wingham, Wingham Mini Mart, Seaforth Foodland, GT Mini Mart in Seaforth, Fincher’s in Goderich, Goderich Victoria St. Shell and The Citizen Blyth.

Births

card of thanks Coming events Wanted UNITED WAY. On behalf of the United Way Perth Huron, I’d like to thank everyone who participated in the Blyth Friday event and supported us by having a donation jar on your counter(s): Blyth Festival Art Gallery, The Blyth Inn, Brød Bakery, Brooklyn’s Bedding and Bath, Finds and Consigns, Flame’n Brick Pizza, Maple and Moose, North Huron Publishing, Pick a Posie Vintage, Riverside Funeral Home, Stitches With a Twist, Sweets N’ Treats, Wild Goose Studio, Wonky Frog and Penny’s of Blyth. Monies raised will go directly back to the United Way Perth Huron programs and services in the Northern Huron area. We could not do what we do without the continued support of local businesses/organizations such as the ones listed above. Wishing everyone the very best this holiday season and for the new year ahead! – Lisa Harper, Resource Development Manager, Northern Huron, United Way Perth Huron.

50-1

CHRISTMAS BAKE SALE AT Brussels United Church Saturday, December 17, 10 a.m. to noon.

Come buy your Christmas treats, frozen fruit pies are available too.

50-1 -------------------------------------------CELEBRATE ON CHRISTMAS Day with friends. Noon Christmas Day dinner at Brussels Mennonite Fellowship. All are welcome! For more information contact Yvonne 519-887-6098.

49-3p -------------------------------------------“BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE” A gentle, quiet service for anyone who is carrying pain or loss, feeling depressed or anxious during the Christmas Season. Trinity Anglican Church, Blyth, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 4 p.m.; Brussels United Church, Thursday, Dec. 22, 4 p.m.

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Help wanted Help wanted

The Citizen is looking for a

Email or send in a colour photo and writeup (75 words or less) to: info@northhuron.on.ca or mail to PO Box 429 Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 519-523-4792

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• The Citizen reserves the right to limit the number of items or ads per person.

We are looking for someone to report on community news and events, write feature stories and who has a keen eye for photos.

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WANTED – LOOKING TO RENT a small parcel of farmland in the Blyth area. Boris Wallace. Call evenings 519-523-4909.

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FOR SALE - Class 1 Stihl chainsaw boots, size 12, never used, $85; Dakota insulated winter safety boots with removable liners, size 12, never used, $120. Please text 519-887-9577.

50-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - Kitchen Aid white stand mixer, classic model, very good condition, bowl, beaters included, $100 o.b.o. 519-8879456.

50-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - set of lamps, $30; Sorel size 6 boots, $50, plus others size 6 shoes and boots, $25 or best offer; crocheted items, $5 each.

Call 519-524-2376.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - “next to new” men’s Bauer hockey skates, size 9; Schwinn ladies white figure skates, size 11; inline skates, size 9, $5 each ;and Atomic cross-country skis, poles and boots, size 9, $15.

519-357-6589.

49-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - handmade pine rocking horse and pine rocking donkey, $100 each, large enough for 8 year old to ride; three outdoor electric reindeers , lights working in two, one needs bulb replacement, $50 for three. Phone 519-527-0107.

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

FOR SALE - 27” snowblower, 2-stage, 4 cylinder engine, $150; nativity barn 18½"L x 12¼"W x 19¾"H with light, $45; quilt rack 27”Wx34”Hx17 1/2"D, $100. 519524-9427.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - one Coleman Powermate generator, 6250 watts, 10 hp. $400; one Champion generator, 11,250 watts, 9,000 running watts, electric start, $900; electric pressure washer, $50. 519482-7262.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - woodworking pattern book (142 patterns), plus other lawn ornament patterns, all for $10. Text 519-441-6415.

48-3 -----------------------------------------FOR SALE - The Avro Canada C102 Jetliner (1986 edition), by Jim Floyd, hardback w/dust cover; The Avro Arrow story – evolution to extinction by The Arrowheads, 1980, hardback w/dust cover; Canucks Unlimited (Royal Canadian Air Force CF-100 Squadrons and Aircraft, 1952-1963

by Bob Baglow, 1985, soft cover, all three in mint condition, $125 for the three, or $50 each. Text 519441-6415.

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

All word ads in The Citizen classifieds are put on our webpage at www.huroncitizen.ca

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 15.

Wilbee to speak

will be on Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2023. Everyone is welcome.

We had lots of snow in November which melted and disappeared. Sunday morning we woke up to snow and had to get the shovels out again.

PEOPLE AROUND BELGRAVE

By Linda Campbell Call 357-2188

No place like home The Ironmen have been taking full advantage of their return to Wingham, winning their last three games, all of which have been played at home. Above, the Ironmen took on the Kincardine Bulldogs on Friday night in Wingham, earning a 2-1 win. Then, on Sunday, the Ironmen were back on the ice to claim a 5-0 win over the Hanover Barons.

(John Stephenson photo)

Golley sits at 10th in league Continued from page 9 netminder Garrett Golley sits in 10th place in the entire league for his goals-against average of 2.03.

The Ironmen next take on Mitchell in Wingham on Friday, Dec. 16 at 8 p.m., followed by a game against the first-place Patriots in Mount Forest on Saturday, Dec.

17 at 8 p.m. and another game against the Patriots on Friday, Dec. 23 at 8 p.m., but this time at home in Wingham to round out the year.

The Ironmen begin the new year at home against last-place Goderich on Friday, Jan. 6, followed by a game against the Bulldogs in Kincardine on Saturday, Jan. 7.

The Ironmen are then in

Wingham for five straight games, playing the Mount Forest Patriots on Jan. 13, the Walkerton Capitals on Jan. 15, the Mitchell Hawks on Jan. 20, the Hanover Barons on Jan. 22 and the Kincardine Bulldogs on Jan. 27. They finish the month on the road on Saturday, Jan. 28 with a game against the Capitals in Walkerton.

Obituaries

DAN DILLON Daniel James Dillon of Wroxeter, passed away at Wingham and District Hospital on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022. He was 61.

Dan was the husband of Wendy (Bateman) Dillon and father of Joe and Michelle Dillon, Fordwich; Laura Dillon, Listowel; Tony Dillon and Tracey Steacy, Lucknow, and Carrie Dillon, Wroxeter. He was the grandfather of Ty Dillon, Fordwich; Riley Dillon and Jess Locklyn, Cambridge; Makayla Dillon, Fordwich, and Pheonix Thompson, River Thompson, and Atticus Thompson, all of Listowel and the great-grandfather of Ayden. Dan was the brother of Rick Dillon, Thedford; Randy Dillon, Mitchell; Bev Dillon and Jim Walker, London, and Bonnie Dillon and

Clayton Kirk, Riversdale.

Dan will also be sadly missed by Wendy’s siblings, Elaine and Roy Ceal, Prince George, British Columbia; Mary and Jim Sproul, Brussels; Gail and Terry Sproul, Ethel; Glenda and Gerard Ducharme, Ethel, as well as by his many nieces and nephews.

Dan was predeceased by his parents Joe and Sue (Harris) Dillon, parents-in-law Robert and Margret Bateman and sister-in-law Carol Bateman.

Dan loved camping and spent most of every summer at their trailer, where he did grass cutting and made friends with everyone. He could always be counted on to offer a helping hand. He also loved just spending time with family and friends and his dog Sparky.

Visitation was held at McBurney Funeral Home, Wingham on Dec. 12. The funeral service was held on Dec. 13. Interment was at Mount Pleasant Cemetery, Ethel.

Memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Kidney Foundation of Canada would be appreciated.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com.

JAMES ARTHUR NORMAN James Arthur Norman of London, and formerly of Wingham, passed away on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022 at University Hospital, London. He was 69 years old.

James was predeceased by his

parents John and Elda Norman and brothers Wallace and Bruce, all of Wingham. He is survived by his sisters Evelyn and Leslie Caldwell, RR 3, Blyth; and Mary Lewis, London and his sister-in-law Shirley Norman, Wingham.

Cremation has taken place with interment of ashes at Wingham Cemetery.

The guest speaker was Murray Scanlon, United Church Licensed Lay Worship Leader, on Sunday, Dec. 11 at Knox United Church, Belgrave. The third Advent candle (the candle of Joy) was lit.

The minister read scripture from Luke 1, verses 47-55 on the Good News of Jesus. Mr. Scanlon’s message was entitled “Things Impossible.”

The guest speaker on Sunday, Dec. 18 is Gloria Wilbee. Everyone is welcome.

There will be a Christmas Eve service on Saturday, Dec. 24 at 7 p.m. at Knox United Church, Belgrave. The church will be conducting a traditional scripture and hymn service. Everyone is welcome.

Sincere sympathy is extended to Bonnie and Keith Pletch in the loss of their brother-in-law William “Bill” Stevenson.

Birthday greetings are extended to Irene Lamont on Dec. 21 and Aleah Marie Lebold on Dec. 23, who will be two years old.

There will be no coffee break on Dec. 27. The next coffee break

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The Citizen

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

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 $8.00.

PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Plowmen honour provincial queen in Seaforth Klaver’s first official event as the Ontario Queen of the Furrow, which she attended in an attempt to introduce herself and promote the 2023 International Plowing Match, which will be held in Peel-Dufferin, hosted by the Townships of Grand Valley, Amaranth and East Luther, from Sept. 19-23, 2023.

She has since attended her first

plowing match, making her way to the Haldimand-Oneida Plowing Match in Hagersville. Klaver then attended the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto and several local Santa Claus parades and Christmas events.

Klaver says she’ll have a busy 2023 and she’s looking forward to all it has in store for her.

,M@ Christmas and

Happy New Year A time to celebrate Huron County’s 2019 Queen of the Furrow, Maranda Klaver, second from right, was the subject of a special celebration on Sunday at the Seaforth Legion. Organized by the Huron County Plowmen’s Association, the event brought together many from around the community to celebrate the historic win, including some fellow royalty. From left: 2022/2023 Huron County Queen of the Furrow Luanne McGregor, Bruce County Queen of the Furrow Allison Pepper, Klaver, and 2022/2023 Huron County Princess Jillian Shortreed. (John Stephenson photo) Continued from page 1 members and friends making the short trip. She also said that, in addition to the aforementioned special guests, she was happy to welcome numerous other Queens of the Furrow from around the area.

Klaver said she’s been very thankful for the support she’s received from the community, both at home and on the road at the International Plowing Match. She told those in attendance on Sunday that, while she’s travelled a fair bit since being crowned Ontario’s

Queen of the Furrow, there really is no place like home.

At the match, Klaver placed in the top five of the competition, placing fifth in the plowing portion of the competition, which she said made her very proud.

She was joined in the top five by the Queens of the Furrow from Leeds, Peel-Dufferin, OttawaCarleton and Wellington, which was then trimmed down to a top three of Ottawa-Carleton, PeelDufferin and Klaver, who was eventually chosen as the winner.

Klaver said she was immediately treated like royalty on her first day of the match after winning the crown, even being treated to a helicopter ride above the grounds.

Klaver said her family was unable to make the trip to support her at the match, but she was overjoyed to see the reception she received when she returned home from Kemptville.

Her family had made a large wooden sign celebrating her win and were all there to greet her, wearing crowns of their own.

The Dufferin Farm Tour was

Telehealth line now active Continued from page 13 than they were when we first started farming.

As rewarding as farming is, though, it can also be tough, and it’s only been in recent years that we’ve started to talk openly about mental health challenges in the agricultural community. It can be an isolating career at times and resilience and perseverance are what keep us going when weather damages our crops, disease affects our livestock, prices are low or tragedies affect our farms or our lives.

Sometimes, however, situations can become overwhelming, and that’s when it’s okay to ask for help.

The OFA has partnered with the Canadian Mental Health Association – Ontario Division this past year to develop and launch the Farmer Wellness Initiative.

It includes a confidential telehealth line that makes mental wellness support available free of charge to all Ontario farmers and farm families 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in English, French and 30 other languages.

If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed about any issue on or off the farm, you can reach the mental health helpline for farmers at 1-866-267-6255 to speak with professional counsellors with agricultural backgrounds and training.

During his presentation, Adams

noted that none of us get to our finish lines alone. He was fuelled by the roar of cheering crowds whereas all of us have friends, families and communities that we can lean on when we need to find that extra courage. It’s important to listen for their sound of support on the days when you need to dig a little deeper, he said, but it’s equally important for all of us to make that sound of support to the people in

our own lives too.

Another message Adams brought to us is one I think is an important one for all of us in the farming community to remember: we need to remind ourselves of the good work that we do; that not all the moments of our lives worth remembering or celebrating need to happen in a stadium – and that the work that we do as farmers is of critical value.

Municipal Holiday Hours 0XQLFLSDO 2IÀFH Closed Saturday, December 24, 2022 – Monday, January 2, 2023 Reopening Tuesday, January 3, 2023 /DQGÀOO +RXUV Tuesday, December 20, 2022 - 9:00 am-5:00 pm Friday, December 23, 2022 - 9:00 am-1:00 pm Saturday, December 24, 2022 - 9:00 am-1:00 pm Tuesday, December 27, 2022 - 9:00 am-5:00 pm Friday, December 30, 2022 - 9:00 am-5:00 pm Saturday, December 31, 2022 - 9:00 am-1:00 pm 1RUWK +XURQ 5HFUHDWLRQ 2IÀFH UHJXODU RI¿FH KRXUV 0RQGD\ )ULGD\ DP SP Friday, December 23, 2022 - Regular Hours Saturday, December 24, 2022 - Closed Sunday, December 25, 2022 - Closed Monday, December 26, 2022 - Closed Tuesday, December 27, 2022 - Closed :HGQHVGD\ 'HFHPEHU 5HJXODU +RXUV 7KXUVGD\ 'HFHPEHU 5HJXODU +RXUV Friday, December 30, 2022 - Regular Hours Saturday, December 31, 2022 - Closed Sunday, January 1, 2023 - Closed Monday, January 2, 2023 - Closed 1RUWK +XURQ $UHQDV $TXDWLF &HQWUH DQG )LWQHVV &HQWUH Monday, December 19, 2022 to Friday, December 23 – Facilities Open – Regular Hours Saturday, December 24, 2022 – Facilities Close at 1 p.m.

Sunday, December 25, 2022 – Facilities Closed Monday, December 26, 2022 – Facilities Closed Tuesday, December 27, 2022 – Facilities Closed :HGQHVGD\ 'HFHPEHU ± )DFLOLWLHV 2SHQ ± 5HJXODU +RXUV 7KXUVGD\ 'HFHPEHU ± )DFLOLWLHV 2SHQ ± 5HJXODU +RXUV Friday, December 30, 2022 – Facilities Open – Regular Hours Saturday, December 31, 2022 – Facilities Close at 1 p.m.

Sunday, January 1, 2023 – Facilities Closed Monday, January 2, 2023 - Facilities Closed

Festive FREE Skates and Swim Sponsored by the Township of North Huron

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:HGQHVGD\ 'HFHPEHU WK %O\WK && ² 6NDWH S P 1+:&& ² 6NDWH D P S P DQG 6ZLP S P For more Holiday Activities go to recreation.northhuron.ca 1RUWK +XURQ &KLOGUHQ·V 3URJUDPV All programs are CLOSED Monday, December 26, 2022, and reopen Monday, January 9, 2023 1RUWK +XURQ &KLOGUHQ¶V &HQWUH ± $OO LQIDQW DQG FKLOGUHQ¶V SURJUDPV 0DLWODQG 5LYHU (OHPHQWDU\ 6FKRRO ± %HIRUH DQG $IWHU VFKRRO SURJUDPV 6DFUHG +HDUW &DWKROLF 6FKRRO ± %HIRUH DQG $IWHU VFKRRO SURJUDPV &KULVWPDV 7UHH 5HF\FOLQJ :KHQ UHF\FOLQJ \RXU &KULVWPDV WUHH SOHDVH UHPRYH DOO OLJKWV RUQDPHQWV WLQVHO string, garland, and tree stands. Do not bag or wrap your tree (including recycling WUHH EDJV 5HVLGHQWV FDQ GURS RII &KULVWPDV WUHHV WR EH FRPSRVHG DW WKH IROORZLQJ ORFDWLRQV IUHH RI FKDUJH -RVHSKLQH 6WUHHW ± :LQJKDP 3XEOLF :RUNV 6KHG 5HLG 5RDG ± 1RUWK +XURQ /DQG¿OO 1RUWK 6WUHHW %O\WK 'HSRW

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Town Hall 519.357.3550 | Rec Dept. 519.357.1208 northhuron.ca

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 17.

From the Minister’s Study

The humble circumstances of Jesus’ birth

By Jason Hovius, Brussels Community Bible Chapel It is this time of year when many of us turn our attention to the 2,000year-old story of the first Christmas. This story is the best news a ruined world can hope for. It is about the coming of Jesus, the one who was “born that men no more may die”, as the famous Christmas carol says. His birth was the fulfillment of the long-awaited promise of a Redeemer for the rebellious human race. As usual, God’s ways are not my ways, and I am sometimes surprised by the means He has chosen to reveal Immanuel.

For the coming of the Saviour of the world, you’d think there would be fanfare and a red carpet. Not so.

The humble Jesus was born into humble circumstances. In our heads, we probably romanticize the dirty stable and the simple lifestyle of a barely-making-ends-meet Mary and Joseph. In reality, if we were there, we would have found their conditions to be deplorable, even by standards of their day and age. I’m sure they did the best they could for the baby Jesus that first night, but we would find it hard to ignore the fact that Mary gave birth in a barn and Jesus was laid in a feeding trough for animals. It brings to mind Jesus’ own words, 30 years later when he said, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” In the time between his borrowed manger and his borrowed tomb, he knew what it was like to live without the creature comforts that most of us take for granted.

God sent angels to announce the birth of His Son, the Christ. Here was a chance to dazzle the kings and emperors and governors. Not so. God sent His angels to some local shepherds. Most likely, these shepherds essentially lived with their flocks and maybe smelled a little like them too. Unlike many farmers today, they were probably not wealthy or influential in their community. The angels told them the good news of great joy, and the shepherds could hardly contain themselves after they saw the baby.

Notice the shepherds were not excitedly telling people about seeing the angels, but about the message concerning Jesus that they had heard from them (Luke 2:17).

Seeing Jesus had been the highlight of their night! Obviously the angels had been effective in pointing all the credit to God in the Highest.

It would be a fitting that Jesus, born as a King, would be raised in

Jerusalem, near the prominent leaders of Israel. Not so. He grew up in humble Nazareth, way up in Galilee on the other side of Samaria from the city. Frankly, real estate in Nazareth was not in very high demand. Before he had met Jesus, one of Jesus’ 12 disciples even said, “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” (John 1:46) Before Jesus’ public ministry, God sent a forerunner who prepared peoples’ hearts for the coming of the Christ. A suave and eloquent and well-liked gentleman? Not so.

He lived in the desert, wore camel skin, ate locusts and wild honey and preached about sin and judgment.

The Bible says, “There came a man sent from God. His name was John.” We know him as John the Baptist in order to distinguish him from the disciple/apostle of the same name. He became famous in his own right, and his preaching about the coming Messiah was effective for some (e.g. Apollos in Acts 18:25). But John’s message of repentance from sin was not entirely popular and it led to his beheading in his early 30s.

Jesus was infinitely perfect and loving and righteous in everything he said and did. You’d think he would have been respected and admired, if not worshipped. Not so.

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Live and online! live.huronchapel.com 119 John’s Ave., Auburn 519-526-1131

hate that Jesus faced on that night during six unfair trials, followed by the next day on the cross is still alive and well. His name is a curse word. His pleas for people to repent are ridiculed. His promise of His return to this earth to judge and to reign is scoffed at. Yet, he still wants people to seek his forgiveness. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.” (2 Corinthians 8:9)

MEL LV VILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRUSSELS

Sunday, December 18 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Come and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas!

Doug Sargent will lead us as we worship together throu ugh prayer, praise and song.

Soup & More 2 Join us every Friday from 11:30 am - 1 pm for lunch.

December 23 - A Christmas Dinner with all the trimmings will be served!

December 30 - There will be no Soup & More 2. January 6, 2023 - Soup & Moree 2 returns.

For pastoral care concerns please call 519-524-7512

Wingham United Church 217 Minnie Street, Wingham

Sunday, December 18

Sunday Morning Worship at 9:30 am Sunday School at 10:30 am Christmas Eve worship at 7:30 pm. Communion and Cantata “Sounds of Joy” Services available on YouTube Rev. Colin S. Snyder ~ rev.colinsnyder@gmail.com Wheelchair accessible 519-357-2961 and parking

winghamunited@hurontel.on.ca winghamuc.webs.com

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

The Regional Ministry of Hope www.regionalministryofhope.com 519-357-7781 email: revjoann@hurontel.on.ca

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JJoin oin us us ffor or o our ur 10:00 1 0:00 a am ma and nd 7 7:30 :30 p pm m sservices ervices Services S ervices a are re live-streamed live-streamed and a nd can can be be ffound ound b by y searching searching ““Blyth Blyth Christian Christian R Reformed eformed Church” Church”

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Evangelical Missionary Church

It’s true that he had some loyal followers, many of whom later died for His name. But he also had many detractors and enemies who wanted to kill him, despite his gracious and truthful words. Jesus knew what it was like to be betrayed to death by the kiss of a close friend.

After all that rejection from mankind, wouldn’t it be far-fetched to say that Jesus would still bear the punishment for their sin on the cross? Not so! He did indeed suffer and die for me and for you, though he had done nothing wrong. The

Contact Alex at minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.co y @g om Website: brusselsandblythuc.ca P.O. Box 359, Brussels ~ 519-887-6259 P.

Blyth United Church Sunday, December 18 9:30 am

Come join us for Advent Services "In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God."Isaiah 40:3 Outreach project is the Mission and Service fund of the United Church

Contact Alex at: minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com Facebook: Blyth and Brussels United Churches blythunited@tcc.on.ca ~ 519-523-4224

BLY YTH T CHRIISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH C H Minister: Pastor Gary van Leeuwen Hwyy. 4, Blyth H ly 519-523-4743 www w.blyt .

THE CATHOLIC PARISHES OF NORTH HURON AND NORTH PERTH

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

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

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

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

PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

Improvements at Walton Hall planned for ’23

Time is winding down with just a little over a week until Christmas.

Christmas parties, family gatherings, work parties. People getting together and having fun.

Remember your loved ones and drive safely.

It was a good week of weather for the December deer hunt. Every road I travelled had hunters on it, either parked on the side of the road or in their bright orange coats on the edge of the bushes. Most groups had a successful week. I heard reports near the end of the week from many, with still a day left to hunt, the Van Beek crew had eight out of their group of 10, a Monkton crew had two out of their group of five, the Fritz crew had eight out of 10, the Campbell crew had eight, the Blake crew had five, the

Shortreed crew had 13 and the Dalton crew got 17. I heard from one crew that was shut out of the hunt and they will remain anonymous. They all were happy with the week, weather and hunt.

The Walton Hall was the venue for a family Christmas for the McClure family. Cheryl McClure organized it for the family and they really enjoyed the hall, the space and the amenities of the hall. They even called after the event to say thank you again. There’s just one more Christmas party to go at the hall for the year.

More improvements will take

Continued from page 11 of a fire at the back of the buildings.

As a result, they were asking for council to remove the parking blockades by making the entire alley a fire route for the village, allowing two entrances for emergency vehicles and others.

MacLellan said that, while there had been no discussion about the blockades, with them just showing up one day without consultation with neighbours, he wasn’t sure if any rule was being broken, so he felt a staff report would be appropriate.

Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts said he had done a little research into the situation, finding that a right of way had been established for the alley in question

in the 1870s to allow for horse and buggy access. In 1997, he said part of the alley was designated as a fire route, but not the portion in question. So, if council were to take action, he said, it would be to designate the entire alley as a fire route, allowing for two points of access.

Councillor Larry McGrath said that perhaps the municipality could begin the process by politely asking the property owner to remove the blockades, explaining the reasons behind the request in an effort to “keep everyone happy”. He added that he had seen, with his own eyes, that the blockades impede deliveries to the businesses there.

Then, if the polite approach doesn’t work, he said, council could

proceed to officially take steps to designate the alley as a fire route.

Councillor Ray Chartrand agreed, saying it’s a definite safety issue and that council needs to show its “due diligence” and do what’s necessary to rectify it. Councillor John Steffler agreed, saying that he would be concerned about liability for the municipality as council has now been warned of the potential dangers of the blockades and if something tragic were to happen in that alley.

Council passed a motion along the lines of McGrath’s suggestion, to approach the property owner in an effort to find an amicable solution, followed by designation of a fire route if the first attempt is not fruitful.

PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

HE to investigate fire route

place at the hall in the new year with some upgrading of the lights in the downstairs. If you keep making improvements, people will come, or so the saying now goes!

It is lovely when out driving to see the Christmas lights. Many places look so nice and it brings a happy feeling to a person. The colourful lights brighten the dark skies so it doesn’t look so dreary.

We usually keep our lights on until the end of January, not only because it looks nice, but so I can find our house and lane easier at night!

The former Duff’s church and manse property in Walton was put up for sale about a month ago and it was sold within about 10 days.

Joe and Rhonda Ryan and family have returned from a week’s vacation in Cuba. The boys report a great time and, of course, it was hot and it was windy.

Our sympathies are extended to Carol Stevenson and family on the passing of Bill Stevenson. He will be missed by his children Steve, Bryan, Amanda and Cyndi and their families. He was known for helping folks in need and he did just that for Rick and me one time. Years ago, we locked the keys in the car and it was still running. It was cold and storming that night when we called Bill to see if he could break into the car to shut it off. Well, Bill came out and managed to get into the car and all was well. I don’t recall what the cost was but it wasn’t much. That was just the nice guy he was.

The Walton Wonders ball team

expressed their sympathies to Georgina Reynolds on the passing of her husband Dave. Dave quite regularly came to the Walton games with George, who is the umpire.

Our condolences to her and children Carl and Lisa and families.

Celebrating birthdays this past week were Darian Fritz, Gary Ritchie, Brook Beuerman, Evan Ducharme, Wilson Ducharme, Cheryl Mader, Margaret Whitmore, Emma Taylor, Destiny Dunbar, Emma Baan, Elsie Carter, Jackie Clarke, Nanci Ducharme, Dustin Fritz, Kim Kruse, Anne Clark, and Conner Shortreed. Happy birthday to all.

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022. PAGE 19.

Energy storage project pitched

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Greetings Victoria Sider of the Blyth Lions, who also serves as the Lions Clubs’ Zone Chair, was on the club’s float on Saturday for the Santa Claus parade, bringing greetings to residents and spreading cheer. (John Stephenson photo)

BluEarth Renewables is seeking the support of Huron East Council for its Seaforth Storage Project, a 10-acre battery energy storage system project located northeast of the town towards St. Columban.

Matthew Allen and Daryl Scheerer from BluEarth spoke to council about the project at its Dec. 6 meeting, which was held inperson at the municipal office in Seaforth. While the project is proposed to be located on private property near the Seaforth wind energy project, the two men said it actually will not necessarily be connected to the wind turbines, harnessing and storing energy during low-usage times to be released to the grid when demand is higher.

Allen told council that the project aims to store 200 megawatt hours of power over four hours, for a total of 800 megawatt hours. The large batteries will be housed in large sea can-like containers that Allen said are about 10 feet tall. Depending on the design, there will be enough of these containers to fill the 10-acre space.

He explained that the batteries will utilize similar technology to some smartphone batteries, with lithium iron phosphate batteries, meaning that the batteries will contain metal, rather than liquid,

News from the Gentlemen’s Club with the Kansas Farmer Special correspondent to The Citizen as curated by Paul Nichol

L

ast month was the annual Harvest Stag in Brussels. A wonderful event. But it also coincides with the annual Gentlemen’s Club Boycott of the annual Harvest Stag. We applaud their fundraising efforts, but us old fellars just aren’t up to all that bravado anymore.

This year’s gathering was at Gerry Wheeler’s place. Last time we were at King William III’s with steak, lobster and caviar. Predictably, this year’s condiments were slimmer: some old cauliflower florets and a box of stale graham crackers that Brenda had left out for the squirrels.

Well, I was down in the dumps and opened the conversation by asking “Does watching all those young

ers t t e L THE TO

OR T I ED THE EDITOR, When David Blaney was contacted about the possibility of the character who hides behind the moniker “TKF” running in the provincial election, he reacted strongly to the suggested personal endorsement. “I categorically and unambiguously denigrate the purported endorsement,” Blaney said.

He continued, “I must elucidate. I said you are a fool to think that people are dumb enough to vote for you.”

When Blaney was reminded that the electorate had voted for Doug Ford twice, he looked distressed

bucks up at the arena make you guys feel old?” My best friend King William pondered the question, then kindly said: “I’m tired of all your self-centred, self-aggrandizing, selfimportant bemoaning and whining.

My wife thinks your ego is so big, the rest of us can’t even fit into the same room with you.”

It was obvious that his wife had been conferring with mine.

Joe Seili, always the peacemaker and diplomat, tried to mitigate a fight. “They say you are only as old as you look.” I replied, “I think it’s only as old as you feel. Thank goodness for us or people would think we were centenarians”.

Rick Demaray thought that meant those Roman guys with funny and leaped on Kathy Nichol’s horse and rode off in all directions screaming “the end is nigh!”

Unfortunately, he left in some confusion and had mounted the beast backwards, so this reporter is uncertain as to what the comment actually referred.

Others mentioned in TKF’s announcement were approached and fled in horror at being associated with the individual, refusing to be interviewed on the record. The general opinion, imagined by this reporter for its news value, was that he could never be legitimately associated with any organization with the word “gentlemen” in the title and he was lucky to be disavowed by Joe Seili.

Several stated that TKF’s oftrepeated claim to have a poison pen was overblown as it was more like a poison crayon.

Courtesy of Faux News (and David Blaney): The only source that can compete with Fox News for untruth in reporting!

helmets. “No, no, I said, those were centurions. I’m talking about people who live to be a hundred or more.”

That’s when Campbell suddenly woke up. “Now, wouldn’t that be something!? Then we could all get a birthday letter from Buckingham Palace signed by His Majesty himself!” We promptly told Laurie to go back to sleep.

Wheeler tried feebly to blather on about the youthful effects of the rejuvenating sport of pickle ball.

Demaray swore by a concoction he had heard about on Zoomer Radio that rhymes with Niagara. Bill said yes, he had tried the same thing and it helped his urinary tract.

Exasperated, I retorted: “I’ve heard those commercials too. But I’m not concerned at this stage about incontinence. Our problem is incompetence!”

The evening ended with a resolution: “Be It Resolved, that no matter how pitiful us old men are at the Gentlemen’s Club, we will always be younger than Neil McGavin, Ralph Watson and Bob Richmond.”

Truthfully Yours TKF.

Sudoku Solution

minimizing the risk of a potential spill.

The project will be placed on farmland, he said, and will require high-voltage transmission lines to be run to the Seaforth substation - a distance of about eight kilometres that can be either above or below ground. He said the project, at the proposed size, will be the first of its kind in Canada, if approved.

If the project is selected by the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to go ahead, the goal is to have the station in service

by May of 2026 and contracted until 2047.

Since first proposing the project, the company has created a website for the project and held a public meeting in Seaforth on Nov. 21.

Allen and Scheerer said the project should create between 70 and 100 construction jobs, as well as some full-time operations positions, while resulting in an increase in tax revenue for the municipality through the rezoning of the property.

Councillor Larry McGrath asked about the origins of the company.

The men said that BluEarth is headquartered in Alberta, with offices around North America, but that the company is entirely funded by a Dutch investment fund.

They also told council that there will be an extensive environmental review procedure for the project, as well as a host of safety guidelines.

This tied into a question asked by Mayor Bernie MacLellan about what would happen in the event of a fire at the site. He asked if the fire

would be too severe or complicated for local fire departments and what kind of oversight there would be from the company at the site.

The men said that there would be local contacts for the site and that safety would be top of mind for the company. A safety and fire suppression plan, they said, would be part of the application and would be in place before the station went into operation.

Council didn’t make a decision on whether to support the project at the meeting, instead asking that staff prepare a report and present it to council at a later date.

Furthermore, the men said they were prepared to return to a future council meeting if council required more information.

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Happy 90th Birthday Irene Lamont December 21, 2022

Love from your family

PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2022.

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The Citizen

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