The Citizen - Dec. 9, 2021

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The

THIS WEEK

Citizen

Huron County’s most trusted independent news source

Thursday, December 9, 2021

Volume 37 No. 49

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

Rec. plan returns in NH

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Time outside With winter hitting Huron County full blast in recent weeks, local students are now bundled up and enjoying their recess time outside in a different way than they were even a month ago. Here, Emma-Lynn Hurley, left,

Lainey Stryker, centre, and Liam Kuntz all do their own thing on a recent recess at Hullett Central Public School in Londesborough. This is just the beginning as winter in Huron County is far from over. (Denny Scott photo)

COVID-19 outbreaks persist in region

By Denny Scott The Citizen With several active outbreaks at local schools and childcare settings, as well as increasing numbers of confirmed cases, COVID-19 numbers continue to spiked in Huron and Perth Counties.

According to Huron Perth Public Health, there have been 2,614 cumulative cases in the two counties since the pandemic started, an increase of 60 over last Monday, when an increase over 60 over the previous Monday was also reported.

Nearly half of the new cases in the area are located in North Perth, where 27 new cases have been reported for a cumulative total of 589. The municipality is also facing 41 active COVID-19 cases.

The remainder of the 33 new cases are spread across Huron and Perth Counties.

In Huron County, five new cases each have been reported in Huron East, which now has a cumulative total of 186 cases, Howick (63

cumulative cases) and North Huron (95). Two new cases have been reported in South Huron (186) and one new case has been reported in Central Huron (115).

Bluewater (73 cumulative cases), Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh (53) and Goderich (48) remained at the same case counts as last week.

In Perth County, outside the 27 new cases in North Perth, there have been nine new cases reported in Perth East (318), four new cases in Stratford (563) and one new case each in West Perth (101) and St. Marys (66).

At 74 cases, Perth South remained at the same case count as the previous week.

As of Monday, there are 76 active cases across the area: 41 in North Perth, six each in Howick, North Huron and Perth East; five in Stratford; two in Goderich and one each in Central Huron, South Huron, Perth South, West Perth and St. Marys.

Four outbreaks in schools and childcare settings have been reported by HPPH, including Elma

Township Public School in North Perth, which now has 27 confirmed cases (26 students, one staff), up from 14 students in the previous week; North Perth Westfield Elementary School, where one staff member and nine students tested positive as of Nov. 30; North Perth Westfield Before- and After-School Program, where two students tested positive as of Nov. 29 and North Perth Spinrite Child and Family Centre, where, after reporting two cases on Nov. 22, another student case has been identified as of Monday.

Several other schools have identified confirmed cases, including Listowel District Secondary School, which, in its sixth such report, identified a single case on Dec. 1. The case resulted in no class or school closure. On Dec. 5, Stratford District Secondary School reported one case, which resulted in no closure, while Milverton Public School, on Nov. 30, reported one case that resulted in one class being dismissed.

One unidentified workplace

outbreak has also been reported in the area.

Acquisition continues to be driven by household-linked exposure and outbreak exposure, according to the HPPH with 31.7 per cent and 22.9 per cent of cases, respectively, being tied to those likely exposures. Close contact with a known case is the likely culprit in 18.8 per cent of cases, while travel is listed as the likely source of infection for 1.5 per cent of cases. Unknown exposure is responsible for just over one quarter of infections at 25.1 per cent.

HPPH is currently reporting 531 active contacts, or individuals who may be carrying the virus. If fullyvaccinated, those contacts do not need to isolate unless they show symptoms of COVID-19. In total, HPPH has contacted 9,968 individuals who may have carried the disease since the pandemic started, up 960 from the previous week.

Huron and Perth Counties are now in the “red” level of the former Continued on page 14

While council was more impressed with the final Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan than previous presentations on it, council members pointed out several remaining controversial suggestions.

During council’s Monday night meeting, Todd Brown, President of Monteith Brown Planning Consultants, presented the final document, a 203-page compendium of research, interviews and surveys highlighting what the municipality should be considering for the future in recreation and cultural applications.

Brown explained how the project came together, pointing to the creation of a vision and mission statement, community consultation and consultation with staff and council before diving into a brief overview of the community survey findings. He highlighted the top 10 priorities for additional public spending, which included nature trails, farmers’ markets, arenas, playgrounds, paved multi-use trails, splash pads, acquisition of parks and open spaces, fitness studios, equipment-based fitness centres and community gardens, all of which had significant support.

As part of the final public information centre, held after the planning group last presented to council on Nov. 10, Brown said 50 submissions were received and that, according to them, the public supported expanding trails and undertaking improvements of existing assets and for accessibility improvements. He also said there is a desire to maintain the Blyth campground’s operation, which he said was spurred on by the fact that locals believe it plays a role in economic development and tourism.

He said feedback for other Blyth proposals, including the potential creation of a municipal daycare and the re-purposing of the surplus baseball diamond, was mixed with individual residents either supporting or opposing those changes.

Other issues included council needing to recognize the importance of the Howson Dam according to ratepayers, he said.

Earlier this year, council voted to decommission the site.

As for specific projects, despite the negative feedback, Brown still suggested preparing a parkland redevelopment plan for the Blyth and District Community Centre to repurpose one of the baseball Continued on page 2

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Market study for pharmacy approved

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Barn blaze A fire at the Boonstoppel farm near Auburn on Nov. 28 resulted in an estimated $300,000 in damages according to Fire Department of North Huron representatives.

While the department was able to save the pigs and portions of the pig barn, other animals were lost in the blaze. The fire resulted in a full response from North Huron as well as assistance from fire departments from Lucknow, Clinton, Goderich and Brussels.

The cause of the fire has not been determined, however, it is not being treated as suspicious. (Courtesy photo)

North Huron Township Council approved a proposed market study that is necessary to open a pharmacy as part of the development just north of the recently completed McDonald’s restaurant in Wingham.

Huron County Planner Hanna Homan explained the document would be necessary before the zoning on the site could be changed to allow for the pharmacy, which isn’t currently permitted under the site’s zoning.

The document would need to, according to North Huron’s official plan, justify the development to the satisfaction of the township before the zoning could be changed.

The study will need to contain six elements, according to Homan’s report, including analysis of the site, trade area delineation (including market profile and historic/current and projected population), an analysis of existing pharmacy supply, an analysis of existing pharmacy demand, an evaluation of the space required to serve that market and professional recommendations and conclusions.

The site, which is directly across Josephine Street from one of

Survey says trails a priority in N. Huron Continued from page 1 diamonds and turn it into a space for a skateboard park, tennis and pickleball courts and a multi-use pad for basketball and ball hockey.

“Improvements to the remaining ball diamond should be undertaken to meet the needs of users,” he said.

“Should the surplus ball diamond continue to be maintained, alternative locations for the noted facility needs should be determined.”

Later in the meeting, Brown referenced the fact that the Blyth Lions Club had stated it may have space for those amenities. In a letter to North Huron, long-time club member John Stewart referenced discussions the club had previously had regarding construction of a sports pad, but said funding was a problem, and that the club would be happy to work with government and private enterprise to see that kind of project work.

Brown also suggested that council engage the Blyth Lions Club to investigate changing the wading pool into a splash pad despite the club’s correspondence saying that wasn’t what the community wanted. He said that the feedback was based on a survey taken several years ago and that the more up-to-date information his firm collected showed a strong desire for such a facility.

Other suggestions included extending the Blyth campground pilot program to better understand its challenges and opportunities before making a final decision; repurposing the concession spaces at local arenas to offer programming or office space; relocate the Wingham Library Branch to the North Huron Wescast Community Centre when major capital repairs are required and relocating the Blyth Library Branch to the Blyth and District Community Centre when its lease is no longer available as a means of strengthening the centres and repurposing underutilized space;

creating playgrounds to make sure all residential areas are within 800 metres of a playground; helping to assist community groups with special events; expanding the municipality’s recreation guide and pursuing opportunities to address parkland gaps in Hutton Heights and the north and east sides of Blyth.

Brown also recommended working with the Goderich-toGuelph (G2G) Rail Trail committee, the Wingham trail committee and the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority to prepare a trails master plan to help improve trails in the area, which was the most-supported use of expanded funding in the firm’s surveys.

Brown also suggested a youth committee, later in the presentation, that would help to make sure the youth voice is heard when planning for the future.

Brown said that township staff should bring forward individual recommendations each year to address the shortfalls identified in the plan, and that the municipality should regularly track demographics and funding opportunities to make sure council and staff are planning for the right groups and taking advantage of all possible funding opportunities.

Brown then invited questions from council, with Councillor Chris Palmer asking how he could recommend doing away with the second baseball diamond in Blyth despite the negative response.

“For me, to repurpose one of the ball diamonds makes sense, when coupled with the [proposed replacements], but I don’t live there,” he said. “The folks in Blyth, it’s really a decision that they need to let us know what they’re thinking… and a lot of the comments at the back of the report say ‘Don’t you dare touch it.’”

“How did you come up with that recommendation knowing [you had received that kind of response]?” he asked Brown.

Brown said recommendations aren’t always made based on what is popular, but based on utilization.

He said there were five diamonds in the municipality and the other three (two in Wingham and one in Belgrave) saw better utilization, while the Blyth diamonds saw little use.

“There are a number of facilities that would be an excellent fit [instead],” he said. “In trying to promote camping, as we heard was important in the comments, things like playgrounds, tennis courts, and basketball courts [would make a] good draw for residents but also campers.”

He also said the baseball diamonds were in need of significant upgrades, so to keep both would be costly.

Brown said, based on his experience, the old baseball diamond adage of “if you build it, they will come” wasn’t correct and that baseball was in decline, in spite of what he called a recent, slow resurgence.

Councillor Paul Heffer asked Brown why he recommended pickleball courts when only seven per cent of respondents said they were interested.

Brown said the survey wasn’t the only thing considered when making recommendations, and said part of it is demographics, and since North Huron has an aging population, he recommended pickleball as it’s popular with that demographic and is one of the fastest growing sports in Canada.

“It [represented a] relatively low percentage in the survey, but when we look at other factors, we know it would be in high demand if you would build a pickleball court, but also have tennis possible on the same court service,” he said.

Deputy-Reeve Trevor Seip said he was impressed by the report because it wasn’t just suggesting taking out existing facilities, but made recommendations about how to better use the space. He did say,

Wingham’s established pharmacies, won’t be able to proceed with the rezoning without having the market study approved by council.

Deputy-Reeve Trevor Seip said that such a document is important to have before rezoning because, in cases where rezoning isn’t necessary, people can build whatever they think will succeed, which can lead to residents questioning why a community the size of Wingham needs so many of one type of establishment, citing gas stations as an example.

“This is a great opportunity,” he said. “The market study is segregated directly to the pharmacy, but, ultimately, we’ll be able to use that theory from a market state to understand the possible uses that shouldn’t be there.”

Council approved the proposed market study terms of reference to be part of a forthcoming zoning bylaw amendment.

Leadership in energy and environmental design

Devon Henry 84772 McDonald Line • Box 616 • Brussels

however, that taxpayers need to realize that everyone pays into facilities, so tax dollars will have to be weighed against the good of the entire municipality, not just what each community wants.

Seip also said council needs to look at these options and consider building not for the demographics of today, but of 10 years down the road, saying that the demographics are already changing and will continue to do so with new residential development across the municipality’s three wards.

Councillor Kevin Falconer said he was concerned that the survey results were skewed, with 55 per cent of respondents being from Wingham. He was even more concerned, however, that 18 per Continued on page 14

devonjhenry@hotmail.com 519-505-2473

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• Find out when you can receive your third dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Enough time needs to pass between your second and third dose.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 3.

Mounsey Fund’s ‘100K in a Day’ to return as relay

A hero’s welcome Dave Matheson and Patrick Armstrong, centre, are seen here completing the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund’s first-ever 100K in a Day fundraiser last summer. Next year, the Fund will host the fundraiser again, but as a relay, incorporating families of those who have been memorialized with donations by the Fund to complete legs of the journey, which will run from Grand Bend to Corunna. (File photo)

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen After a successful first year, the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund (DMMF) is bringing back its “100K in a Day” event next summer, though with a bit of a twist.

Set for Saturday, June 4, the second-annual 100K in a Day will run away from Huron County, as

opposed to ending there like the 2021 event, which began in London and ended in Wingham. The 2022 trek will begin in Grand Bend and end in Corunna, a small town just south of Sarnia on the St. Clair River, bordering Michigan.

Another change for next year’s event will be that many people connected to the DMMF will be taking part like a relay, with some

people walking one portion of the route before the next group takes over. This year’s event was run entirely by Fund Founder Patrick Armstrong and member Dave Matheson and it took its toll on the two men, with the entire walk lasting nearly 24 hours.

Armstrong, in an interview with The Citizen, said he has reached out to some of the families who have

had members memorialized with defibrillator donations through the Fund about walking portions of the journey and the early response has been excellent. Armstrong said many families have been looking for a way to be involved in the work of the Fund beyond simply directing donations its way and this gives them that opportunity.

He says he and Matheson still plan to cover some of the portions of the trip, while a firefighter from London has already volunteered to do the entire 100-kilometre distance in bunker gear, which Armstrong says puts his and Matheson’s journey earlier this year to shame.

He said this event will complement the Fund’s annual Dancing with the Stars event, which he expects to return next year, as well as its established Run Around the Square, which was held virtually this year.

Further announcements and fundraising information will be made available early next year, Armstrong says, allowing people to get through the holidays before the Fund focuses on its next initiative.

He also said that, along the way during next year’s event, there will be at least one defibrillator donation, which will mark a “first” for the Fund, though he couldn’t offer any further details at this time, just that it was something he was proud the Fund was taking on.

To date, the Dave Mounsey

Memorial Fund has placed over 135 defibrillators around southwestern Ontario. Three lives have been saved

by Mounsey defibrillators as a result.

Mounsey, for whom the Fund is named, was an Ontario Provincial Police officer based in Wingham. He was killed in a single-vehicle accident in 2006 and the Fund was established a few years later.

Before his death, Mounsey had trained to compete in a marathon in hopes of raising enough money to buy a defibrillator for the Blyth Fire Department, of which he was also a member. After Mounsey died, Armstrong established the Fund to continue doing that work, placing life-saving defibrillators in public buildings across southwestern Ontario. To date, defibrillators have been placed in the names of police officers, firefighters, paramedics and soldiers who were killed in the line of duty.

The first-ever donation was made in Mounsey’s name at Memorial Hall in Blyth and the second donation was made in the name of Cpl. Matthew Dinning of Wingham at the Wingham Legion. Dinning was killed in Afghanistan, serving as a member of the Canadian military police.

For more information on the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund, or more details on its donations, visit its website at davemounsey.com.

Pilot project possible in Huron

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron East Mayor Bernie MacLellan says that Huron County may be host to one of four provincial pilot projects that are designed to tackle the opioid crisis, homelessness and mental health.

MacLellan spoke to the issue at Huron County Council’s Dec. 1 meeting saying that the issue was

discussed at a recent meeting of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) health task force.

The news came from a recent roundtable discussion with the provincial Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo.

MacLellan told councillors that he had very few details at the time, but he said, in a subsequent interview with CKNX, that he is

encouraged by the interest being shown in rural Ontario and the prevalent issues in the community.

He also noted that both Warden Glen McNeil and Chief Administrative Officer Meighan Wark have since spoken with Huron-Bruce MPP and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Lisa Thompson about their concerns with certain situations ongoing in the county.

He shall save His people from their sins Arthur Pink “A Fourfold Salvation” “You shall call His name Jesus—for He shall save His people from their sins” Matthew 1:21 Our salvation from the pleasure of sin is effected by Christ’s taking up His place in our hearts, “Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). Our salvation from the penalty of sin was secured by Christ’s sufferings on the Cross where He endured the punishment due our iniquities. Our salvation from the power of sin is obtained by the gracious operations of the Spirit, whom Christ sends to His people. Our salvation from the presence of sin will be accomplished at Christ’s second advent, “We are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for Him to return as our Saviour.

He will take these weak mortal bodies of ours and change them into glorious bodies like His own!” (Phil. 3:20, 21). And again we are told, “We know that when He shall appear—we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2). It is all of Christ, from beginning to end!

An annual tradition The Clinton Kinsmen and Kinettes hosted their annual Santa Claus parade on Friday night, creating a reverse parade, which saw scores of cars drive the route to see stationary floats set up by the Central Huron Community Complex and the Regional Equine and Agricultural Centre of Huron (REACH). The evening was a success with Central Huron Council lauding it on Monday night. (John Stephenson photo)

“You shall call His name Jesus—for He shall save His people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). First, He shall save them from the pleasure or love of sin by bestowing a nature which hates it—this is the great miracle of grace. Second, He shall save them from the penalty of punishment of sin, by remitting all its guilt—this is the grand marvel of grace. Third, He shall save them from the power or dominion of sin, by the workings of His Spirit—this reveals the wondrous might of grace. Fourth, He shall save them from the presence or indwelling of sin—this will demonstrate the glorious magnitude of grace!

A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church, Listowel, ON 519-492-1359

PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Editorials & Opinions

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

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Not so fast Despite the efficacy of the vaccines, the COVID-19 virus doesn’t seem quite finished with us. Just as the world was looking forward to a more “normal” holiday season, yet another variant has been identified and has been accompanied by dire headlines, border closures and more than a little frustration.

The omicron variant’s emergence, while troubling for the present, may be a sign of better times ahead. The 1918 pandemic of the Spanish flu has never really ended. It is still with us as the H1N1 flu, but mutations of the virus eventually led to it becoming less lethal.

There is a theory called “the law of declining virulence” which lays out the logic that viruses become less deadly over time as the host species’ immune system learns to fight it. It would also seem to be in the best interest of the virus to have the host live so that the virus can successfully transmit to as many new hosts as possible. So, a more transmissible variant is not necessarily a bad thing, as long as it is also less deadly than the previous incarnation.

Most scientists agree that COVID-19 isn’t likely to go away, but will likely morph into something akin to the common cold or a seasonal flu.

How long we have to wait to get to the version that we can live with, though, is anyone’s guess. – DS

Getting it right The power and reach of misinformation (and disinformation, its evil twin) is nothing new. It’s to blame for everything from recent elections results to vaccine hesitancy. However, with misinformation and disinformation, we think of exactly those scenarios: senior politicians, large corporations, high-profile celebrities, etc. In small communities, where there is often nowhere to hide, getting it wrong, intentionally or not, can have very real and severe consequences.

This is the case in Latchford, a small Northern Ontario town which now finds itself in need of a doctor after its only full-time physician has decided to close her practice. This comes after Latchford Councillor Scott Green posted incorrectly on Facebook that Dr. Gretchen Roedde was not seeing unvaccinated patients. Latchford Mayor George Lefebvre says Green made a mistake, but now has the unenviable task of attracting a new doctor to the community in the coming months.

Green, who has since resigned, sent apology letters to residents and has assured them that he is not against vaccination, but the damage was done. Not only was Roedde inundated with nastiness from the antivaccination crowd, but Green was then targeted from the other side.

The two have since met and become friends, but both are now leaving their posts due to an erroneous social media post.

Misinformation or disinformation aimed at high-level politicians with media teams and endless resources is bad enough, but they’re equipped to fight back. The toll it can take in small communities is immense and, whether it’s a 69-year-old doctor or your local municipal councillors, they are only human and capable of walking away when enough is enough. Then, you’ve lost a doctor or a councillor or a business, all because you didn’t take the time to check your facts.

Think before you post; real lives can hang in the balance. – SL

Big pieces of big pies While there are many facets to the ongoing labour dispute between Major League Baseball’s players and coaches, which resulted in the players being locked out by the league’s owners last week, the situation could come off as more than a little tone-deaf given the challenges of those in many other parts of the world.

The Major League Baseball Players Association and the league’s owners are at a standstill as players want more money in the face of decreasing average salaries. Over the past three years, the average salary of a professional baseball player has dropped from $4.05 million to $3.89 million, resulting in the request for more money and the first work stoppage for the players since 1995.

While no one wants to see the average salary in their field go down, the association may have chosen the wrong time to go to bat for more money for players, given that most employees around the world are either recovering from unemployment, still without a job or working reduced hours due to COVID-19. While many people were able to continue working throughout the pandemic, whether that was from home or in small businesses, many were also faced with layoffs or, in dire situations, their workplaces shutting down completely.

The problem here is that those people who faced job losses or reduced hours are the people who support baseball’s owners and players, so pushing for higher wages right now, regardless of whose side anyone may fall on, could seem a little petulant.

While we’re all entitled to bargaining for a better wage, maybe the middle of a pandemic isn’t the time to be trying to make millionaires a little more money. – JDS

Looking Back Through the Years December 10, 1964 Ralph Watson was the winner of the first Saturday Night Christmas Draw at Machan Hardware.

The Brussels Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion’s Ladies Auxiliary named Mrs. William Dobson of Ethel as its president for the coming term, taking over for Mrs. Charles Storey. Mrs. Frank Rutledge and Mrs. Leonard Lamont would serve as vice-presidents, while Mrs. Jack Lowe would be the secretary and Mrs. Ross Duncan would serve as the treasurer.

The Untouchables remained atop the Brussels bowling league with 26,847 points, ahead of the Pinbusters with 26,207. In the week’s action, Karen Coleman topped the women’s singles competition with 175 points, while Brian Rutledge was tops in the men’s class with 256. Both were also tops in doubles, with 303 and 391 points, respectively.

December 11, 1974 The Belgrave branch of the United Co-operatives of Ontario was full of good news at its annual meeting, reporting another year of record sales and plans for further expansion.

At the meeting, Manager Murray Lougheed said the business saw an increase in sales of more than $500,000 in the past year, rising from $860,000 to nearly $1.4 million. He acknowledged that part of the increase was due to inflation, but said that most of the increase could be attributed to the residents of Belgrave using their local co-op.

As a result, Lougheed said the Belgrave branch was growing at a faster rate than nearly every other branch in the provincial system, which led to plans for a new warehouse and store complex. The

new buildings were due to be constructed on the existing site in phases.

Attempts by the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority to acquire land in the Saratoga Swamp near Auburn were being held up by the provincial government’s land speculation tax. As a result, the attempt had failed, as the owner of the property declined to sell for fear of being penalized by the speculation tax.

Conservation Authority Chair Jack Graul said all was not lost, as he hoped the tax law could be amended so as to not apply to conservation authorities, which were not operating with private funds, but public money in the hopes of acquiring land for the public to enjoy.

December 11, 1996 Dr. Greg Antoniadis, a Hamiltonborn physician who established an office in Wingham in the summer, announced he would be opening an office in Blyth in 1997. This came just two weeks after Dr. Dan Rooyakkers of Seaforth announced that he too would be moving his offices to Blyth.

Rooyakkers would be in Dr. Hay’s former office, while Antoniadis would be set up in the former office of Dr. MacGregor on Dinsley Street.

The potential restructuring of the hospitals in Huron and Perth Counties had many concerned, attracting hundreds to public meetings held throughout the area.

One of the meetings was held at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre, where over 70 residents turned out to discuss the future of the community’s hospital.

One doctor said the approach was to “divide and conquer” local

hospitals, while a registered nurse who spoke said the proposed changes would result in unnecessary deaths.

December 8, 2011 Central Huron launched an appeal of Justice Gorman’s decision to uphold a 1999 bylaw which reduced the size of Huron County Council by four members.

Central Huron was one of the four municipalities that lost a representative, alongside Huron East, North Huron and South Huron.

While Central Huron Council opted to launch the appeal, it was done so with a condition that it would only go forward if at least one of the other aggrieved municipalities would join in. An early estimate pegged the cost of an appeal at $20,000, which could be reduced to $5,000 for Central Huron if all four municipalities joined and took on a fair share.

Bluevale-area farmer Amy Cronin and her daughter Emmy were featured as Miss and Mrs. April in the 2012 Faces of Farming calendar, an annual fundraiser for the Farm Care Foundation. In addition to running a number of hog farms in both Huron County and the United States, Cronin had served as the vice-chair of the Ontario Pork board of directors, as well as a local trustee on the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board.

Ontario Provincial Police officer Patrick Armstrong was honoured by Huron County, being named its Police Officer of the Year. He was awarded not only for his work with the police force, but also his charity work in founding the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund, which places life-saving defibrillators in public spaces across the province.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 5.

Other Views

Continuing thoughts of the past

L

iving in the past, as I did in last week’s column where I recalled the early success of the late actor David Fox, has its addictions, including memories of the early years of the Blyth Festival.

I recently stirred those memories via a Zoom call with Blyth Festival founder James Roy and early Festival supporter Jim Swan (we couldn’t even have imagined what Zoom was back in 1975 when the Festival began).

Last week I spoke of the early attempts at putting Blyth Memorial Hall back in use in 1972 and the ongoing debate about the building’s viability, as problems with the fire escape, electrical service and, finally, a design flaw in the roof, delayed the use of the upstairs theatre year after year. Finally, it was the Blyth Legion Branch which spoke of the importance of the hall, which led to village council installing a new roof on the building in the fall of 1974.

Late winter 1974-1975 led to two professional performances in the old theatre with comedians Dave Broadfoot and Carol Robinson performing their review Take a Beaver to Lunch and teacher-turned-actor Ted Johns, who had joined Theatre Passe Muraille after seeing The Farm Show, performing Naked on the North Shore, about his experiences teaching in Quebec.

It was about then that I received a short letter from James Roy, born on a farm just outside Blyth but who had never seen the theatre in Memorial Hall. A graduate of the theatre program at York University, he had talked to Paul Thompson, visionary director/producer, of The Farm Show back in Clinton in 1972. By now, having given up on Blyth’s theatre ever being ready, Thompson had set up in Petrolia, but when he heard the theatre was back in business, he mentioned it to Roy, who contacted me.

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk Having spoken to James by phone and hearing what I suspected was a middle-aged CBC actor, I was amazed to have a young university graduate exit the car the first time we met. He brought with him a colleague, Jeffery Cohen, and I took his photo with James as they sat in the seats of Memorial Hall, imagining for the first time producing theatre there. Cropped out of some versions of my photo is Anne Chislett, James’s wife at the time, who sat in the back row and played a huge role in the Festival long after James left.

Not only did James decide he was going to produce professional theatre in Blyth, but he was going to do it that summer. He went to work finding financing and actors. I approached local officials about setting up a summer theatre in the hall and proposed names for a board of directors, including no less than two ministers, Helen Gowing, president of the Board of Trade, and Cennetta Bainton, who ended up being one of the biggest donors to the Festival during her time. Everyone I approached came on board.

As for programming, James mentioned the books written by Harry J. Boyle, originally from St. Augustine, who at one time was involved in CKNX radio, later a director and writer with CBC radio and at the time vicechair of the Canadian Radio Television Commission. I was thrilled that James wanted to include a local writer and I was familiar with

the books Mostly In Clover, Homebrew and Patches and With a Pinch of Sin, so I was thrilled for this local content, though ignorant of the work it would take to make them into live theatre. As a safety net, James also scheduled a foolproof classic The Mousetrap

by Agatha Christie, the only non-Canadian play ever produced by the Blyth Festival.

Thanks to Blyth Village Clerk Larry Walsh, who turned opening night into a rededication of Memorial Hall, the opening night was a smash success. Jim Swan showed up to capture the opening night excitement and produced a radio show. He sent along a recording of the show after we spoke by phone.

James Roy went on to produce the first five seasons at the Festival, including such treasures as Peter Colley’s I’ll Be Back Before Midnight, which became the Festival’s first big hit.

Out front that first season, raising money by visiting local residents and through taking tickets, was Anne Chislett, who would later fill the seats of Memorial Hall as author of the adaptation of Boyle’s A Summer Burning, her own The Tomorrow Box and Quiet in the Land under Janet Amos’s leadership, and two plays she allowed me to co-write Another Season’s Promise and the sequel Another Season’s Harvest. She later served as Festival Artistic Director.

Ted Johns wrote and performed in many Festival productions from He Won’t Come In From the Barn, to The School Show to Garrison’s Garage. His wife Janet Amos served two terms as artistic director.

The pandemic has pinched the Festival, cancelling the 2020 season and turning it into an outdoor theatre with a new stage in 2021.

We wait, impatiently, for Artistic Director Gil Garratt’s plans for 2022 in these uncertain times.

T

Denny Scott Denny’s Den You don’t have to look very hard to find example after example of Ford walking back decisions, sometimes years, sometimes days and sometimes hours after he makes them.

Heck, some people may have already forgot that, in April of this year, Ford announced sweeping changes to police powers to help control COVID-19, but then walked back the decision a day later.

As a matter of fact, if you spend more than 30 seconds looking, you can find entire lists of things Ford or members of his government have said or pledged then changed their minds on, from Legal Aid cuts to the Toronto subway upload to cuts to the Children’s Aid Society.

Depending on what side of the aisle you’re on, the walkbacks might be welcome or they might not be, but the fact that so many have happened is indicative of a lack of planning, consultation and common sense.

This isn’t a “Conservatives are bad” argument, but one about the quality of people we need heading up our province and, unfortunately, Ford seems to not be making the cut. Whether you’re right, centre or left (or some amalgam of two) or red, blue, green, etc., we should all be able to agree that what we need is a leader and a government that looks to the future, not one who makes rash decisions and then walks them back.

Heck, when I interviewed Caroline Mulroney before the leadership election, I

Shawn’s Sense

Boiling it down

I

n one of my parenting books, I remember reading about the importance of speaking to your kids, even if they’re really young, in adult tones with adult words. If I remember correctly it’s important for language development, rather than a heavy diet of baby talk.

So, sometimes when I get some alone time with Tallulah, most often when I’m feeding her, I try to tell her a story. Usually music is playing in the background (her meal-time music is Otis Redding - she will accept no substitute) and I’ll talk to her about this or that.

Well, the other day, the Redding song “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” came on. The song plays a pretty important role in one of the better moments of Twin Peaks: The Return, so I regaled her with the story of the love triangle involving Big Ed, Norma and Nadine. The twists and turns include super strength, an eye being shot out and a golden shovel (for those of you unfamiliar with creator David Lynch, I’ll save you the trouble and just say that his creations can be... weird).

Anyway, as I was wrapping up, I realized that I had told this incredibly convoluted story in a pretty concise manner and in a way that, maybe, could be understood by an infant.

Aside from feeling stupid for giving this idea for a podcast away for free (think about it Shawn Loughlin explains Twin Peaks to toddlers week after week; it’s a gold mine), it got me thinking that, in a way, that’s what I do here every day.

Now, I’m certainly not calling you, our dear readers, infants, but it’s kind of an open secret that newspaper readability is supposed to be somewhere between grade school and high school. That’s what was taught in journalism school and now, while a quick Google search thought she would be a great leader for shows different results, most agree that a her party and the province. Alas, the Ford newspaper should be written at a reading level political machine had different plans for the between about Grade 8 and Grade 11. There are even guides online rating your favourite province.

EV chargers are a necessary part of getting authors and the reading level at which they away from fossil fuel dependence and, on top write. A chart found online shows that some of of that, they are a good way for the the world’s most famous authors, like Ernest government to remove some of the barricades Hemingway and a few of my favourites, for electric vehicle ownership. After scrapping Cormac McCarthy and Hunter S. Thompson, the electric vehicle rebate in 2019, electric pen their work at relatively low reading levels, vehicle sales plummeted by more than 55 per while writers like Michael Crichton, Malcolm cent that year (a year in which all other Gladwell and Danielle Steel (surprisingly) provinces saw an increasing number of electric craft their work for an audience at a much higher reading level. vehicles sold).

But, to get back to the point, that kind of I know that the green agenda isn’t a big one for Ford’s big blue machine, but that doesn’t succinct storytelling, boiling a story down to mean that changes like the installation (or just its essence and relaying it to another person, is continuation) of EV chargers can’t be part of one of the core fundamentals of journalism.

I have a running editor’s note with Denny, the government’s plan (as he has proven).

The problem here, however, isn’t one of telling him to never file a story that begins with a sentence about a local council receiving green energy, but of not planning ahead.

I’m far from a carpenter, but I know the a report. First off, there’s nothing less exciting value of measuring twice and cutting once. I than receiving a report, let alone reading about also know the value of rounding up and someone receiving a report, but second, it sanding down an edge later on. Both practices doesn’t get the news to readers upfront. I make sure you don’t have to buy more wood always tell him that the lede of a story should be the writer’s answer to the question, “well, halfway through a DIY project.

We need a government that researches what happened?” after covering an event. If these decisions before making them and you answer that question by saying council weighs the long-term impacts because, aside received a report, you’ll surely get a response from the obvious impact of the cost of ripping along the lines of “...and?”

That’s what we journalists call the inverted out EV chargers and replacing them, or the pyramid.

Our stories should begin with a individual cost to minimum wage earners of putting off the new minimum wage, there are wealth of information and get less important as also costs for scrapping and restarting these the word count rises. This is the opposite of, say, an essay, in which there is an introduction, projects.

Mistakes will always be made. Our supporting paragraphs and a conclusion, governments are staffed and led by humans, so which is, arguably, the most important part of mistakes are inevitable. However, it seems, the story, stuck in there right at the end.

Boiling a story down to its essentials can be with how often Ford is walking back an art form, and the more simple it is, the less decisions, having a leader with even a little likely your readers will end up in the weeds. more foresight could go a long way.

Hiring: a government that plans ahead his week, Ontario’s provincial government announced a partnership that will see electric vehicle (EV) chargers installed at the OnRoutes (rest stops, gas stations and food courts found on the 400-series highways), throughout Ontario over the next couple years.

It’s a welcome announcement that shows the government at least paying lip service to the need for greener means of transportation. However, like so many other stands this government has taken, it required walking back another decision to make it.

Most recently, the government came under fire for implementing a $15-per-hour minimum wage after scrapping a planned increase that was scheduled by the previous Liberal government.

Critics pointed out that the decision to scrap, then re-enact the $15 minimum wage cost those who make minimum wage thousands of dollars while Premier Doug Ford and the provincial government dithered on the issue.

In much the same way, Ford’s provincial government oversaw a group ripping EV chargers out at Go stations in Toronto two years ago. In 2019, 24 chargers were removed from 12 Greater Toronto Area Go parking lots because the units weren’t generating a profit.

Now, anyone can do some quick research and find out that the decision wasn’t implicitly made by Ford or his government, but by Metrolinx, an arm’s length government organization. However, the program, established in 2013, had been around for several years before Ford and the Conservatives came into power, but was abolished shortly after Ford was elected. In my opinion, that math is pretty selfexplanatory.

Shawn Loughlin

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Replay of Santa Claus parade available on YouTube A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

Internet famous The Brussels Santa Claus parade, featuring the titular man in red himself, may have taken place over a week ago, however anyone can relive it thanks to the magic of YouTube. (John Stephenson photo)

There’s a song that goes, “Joy Is in the Air,” and I’m thinking that’s just what’s happening. December comes, thoughts go to family and friends. Gatherings are anticipated, memories surface and plans are made. Moods just seem to elevate.

Our pandemic plans will need some sensible restrictions, but at least we can gather. So, enjoy the love in the air and do your part .

In case you haven’t already enjoyed reliving the Brussels Christmas parade on YouTube, you can do that at your convenience now. Thanks to the talents and effort of Peter Jaycock, he has offered us the opportunity to view our seasonal parades, all set to music. While you’re there you might as well check on the Brussels Fall Fair parade as well. Thanks Jay, well done.

Parties and gatherings are happening and it’s good to see. This remains a time to be careful, but it is also time to know yourself.

Community, family and

communication are almost basic needs. Mental health is just as important as your physical wellbeing, so be creative and find ways to be good to yourself. Deprivation is not one of the good choices. On that note, if Christmas makes your heart ache or even makes you sad, the Anglican and United Churches here are offering a little comfort.

On Wednesday, Dec. 15 JoAnn and Alex are offering a time of contemplation in both communities, check the advertisement in The Citizen for details. Look after yourself, it’s your most important job and you’re well worth the effort.

I have a sign that is packed in my Christmas treasures that reads, “The best Christmas gifts are Memories”.

As December moves along and decorations find their spot, it is so true. The reindeer from Grandma Jenkins’ side, the Nativity scene from the Eaton’s catalogue, the metal elephant from a shop class made by one of the boys, the wee church that Dad bought for Mom from Lee Vance’s store, pictures by grandchildren, the container from Rene’s store, all filled with love. It takes a long time in this wonderful season to think and place each item saved from the past. And oh my, that hasn’t even got me started on the tree decorations made by friends or children. Ah, good memories.

Think hard as you get your

At the Branch

containers with cranberries, bag rolls and bake pies. Many hands make light work and there were nine hard-working members who finished the job just after lunch.

Thanks to Andy Overholt, Deb Seili, Judy Lee, Kathy Burkholder, Linda Bird, Nancy Bridge, Deb Ross, Marni Knight and Jo-Ann McDonald.

Next, a few ladies started to prepare for the Huron County Plowmen’s Association banquet and presentations evening. They were serving a roast beef dinner to approximately 35 people. Thanks to Linda, Kathy, Judy, Jo-Ann and Deb for working the extra time to serve the meal. Then it was time to get the turkeys ready for the oven. It was a long day for some of the Comrades.

Sunday was the drive-thru turkey dinner and the day began early for Deb and Eric Ross, who were in charge of getting the turkeys into the ovens. The workers started to arrive by noon and, with a variety of jobs to accomplish, everything was ready with a half-hour to spare.

It takes many hands to carve, cook, prepare, package and serve the meals for the 180 folks who supported the Legion. Thanks to Comrades Jo-Ann, Judy, Linda, Lisa Glanville, Joan Smith, John Lowe, Andy, Jamie Mitchell, Jim and Sandra Brown, Kathy, Marni, Nancy, Deb, Eric, Mabel Glanville and Nanci Ducharme for a job well done. The weather held for most of the time but did become very nasty by the end of the night. Thanks to all.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Brussels Legion 218 Entertainment by Hayley McNeil

‘Ace’ jackpot climbs to $6,100

By Jo-Ann McDonald We congratulate all the members who supported the early bird membership drive for the past three months. The last early bird winner was Kathy Burkholder, who joins September winner Deb Cann and October winner Catrina Josling.

They have won their 2023 dues.

There are still just over 20 members who have not paid their dues for 2022, so drop in today and maybe we can have 100 per cent paid membership by Jan. 1.

When you are thinking of paying your dues, also think of asking family or friends if they would like to join the Legion. It would be nice to increase our membership and have new members join the Legion family.

The Branch catered to the Maitland Valley Camera Club Christmas dinner last Thursday evening They enjoyed the traditional turkey dinner and a social evening downstairs at the Branch. Helpers for the meal included Sandra Josling, Jim Brown, Kathy Burkholder and Linda Bird.

It was week 18 of the Catch the Ace draw and the lucky weekly winner was Kevin Dunbar. He won $235 and chose envelope number 24 and found the six of hearts. The estimated jackpot for next week will be $6,100. Get your tickets today and maybe enjoy an extra special Christmas!

Next Friday evening, following the Catch the Ace Draw, there will be entertainment by Hayley McNeil. Come out and hear this lovely young lady perform at the Branch.

Saturday morning was full of preparation. There were potatoes to peel, turnips to chop and peel and ready for the pots. There was also dressing to make, cabbage to chop and mix and members had to fill

donation ready for Christmas and year-end.

Know the good organizations that put your money to real work. Know what makes the world tick. Remember there are many who do not have good water available and vaccinations are not in the picture, not glamorous gifts. Educate yourself on the unfairness and be as generous as you can.

So, in Advent language last week we lived in hope and this is the week of peace, let it begin with you.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

Come out and hear this lovely young lady perform at the Branch December 10th from 7:30-11:00 pm

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner Winning Ticket: Kevin Dunbar $235 Envelope #24 found the 6 of Hearts Estimated jackpot for December 10 is $6,100

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

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Liz Allan of the Maitland Valley Camera Club has kept her camera close-by as the snow has fallen and the season has turned to winter to capture landscapes like the one above, taken in the woods near Wroxeter. (Photo courtesy of Liz Allan of the Maitland Valley Camera Club)

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 7.

Historical biography started out as gift to family

Literary star Jane White originally set out, with her grandson-in-law Greg McClinchey, to put stories from her life to paper for her family. The final result, however, turned into more than that with the book now being available for sale at The Citizen. (Submitted photo)

By Denny Scott The Citizen Late last month, Jane White’s (née Ovington) family gathered at a cottage in Goderich to surprise her with her own memoirs in a book called Plain Jane: My Wonderfully Ordinary Life.

White, who lives in Wingham now, worked with her grandson-inlaw Greg McClinchey to produce the book, which outlines her life growing up and living in Morris Township all the way to the present.

She discussed the book in an interview with The Citizen earlier this week from her apartment in Wingham.

She started working with McClinchey to produce the book as a gift to her family, specifically her great-grandchildren, who would have no idea how life was when White was young. She said she wanted to show both her hobbies and the realities of growing up before indoor bathrooms and electricity were the norm in farmhouses.

“That’s how it all started and I never knew it would go this far, but I wanted to leave a book for my children and great-grandchildren,” she said. “The great-grandchildren are coming like mad right now.

There are 25 of the little ones and a lot of them will have no idea how

we had to live when I was a child.”

She said she had a good life, the best, in fact, to the point that some of her cousins called her spoiled a time or two.

“We had no hydro, we had no running water and nothing like that, but life was pretty good,” she said.

“I don’t know how the children would handle it these days.”

She said she thought the tales of her childhood and growing up would make for a good read, and would let her give something special to her family, which is one of the driving forces in her life.

As for the specifics of her story, beyond the challenges of the day, White said she wasn’t “the sweet little girl in buttons and bows” but more of a tomboy who enjoyed hunting and working in the barn.

After she was wed to Clarence, White said it was years before they had amenities like running water or hydro and, despite that, she was still very happy because she couldn't miss something she never had. “[Those amenities] came so gradually,” she said. “Even when we got hydro, we only got it downstairs and ran an extension cord upstairs. We only had a bit of money at the time, so that was what we got.”

She said, in time, they got a telephone in, and even a drilled well, which was a boon because the dug-well could dry out, resulting in water needing to be brought up from the river.

“The bank in Brussels wouldn’t give us money to drill a well,” she said, adding this was in the 1950s.

“Clarence went to Seaforth and found a bank that would. Having that drilled well saved time.”

At the time, however, she said all of her neighbours faced those kinds of challenges. It was just part of everyday life and, while she hopes her descendants never have to face times like those, it was manageable

Hulley’s passing saddens village From Marilyn’s Desk

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

The village of Blyth was saddened to hear of the death of a long-time area resident and former teacher at Blyth Public School, Pat Hulley, who passed away on Nov. 30.

Happy birthday to Barb owson, Goderich, who will celebrate Dec. 9; Elaine Snell, Westfield, and John McDowell, Dec. 10 and Bill Bromley, Goderich, Dec. 15. Happy birthday

everyone and enjoy your special day.

Monday brought many kinds of weather. It had been snowing, raining and the sun has even tried to shine. Don’t forget to come out and see the Santa Claus Parade in Blyth on Saturday, Dec. 11.

When you meet someone on the street this coming week, wish them a Merry Christmas and see how good it will make you feel.

Stay safe and have a good week.

Call someone you haven’t heard from in a while.

and, at the time, the norm.

As for modernity, White said she loves her life now. She has had difficult years in the past, with Clarence passing in 2014 and having to sell the family farm, however she now has a lovely apartment, f r i e n d l y neighbours and still wants for nothing. She lives now to visit and spend time with her children, grandchildren and g r e a t grandchildren, and hopes they are able to spend C h r i s t m a s together this year.

As for the surprise of the book, White said she was in tears Plain Jane: My Wonderfully Ordinary Life when it was

By Hannah Jane White and presented to her.

Gregory W. McClinchey Originally, she only wanted to share the story with family, saying it all. He said the book provides a she wouldn’t be interested in selling look at history, as well as a look at it, however seeing all of her family the history of the Ovington family.

McClinchey identifies as an supporting her, she decided it was a amateur genealogist who has good idea.

She says that McClinchey, who penned three books in total, helped her significantly, did great including a similar novelization of things with the information his grandfather’s life. available.

Plain Jane: My Wonderfully “We only had one meeting before Ordinary Life is available for sale in COVID-19 and the rest we went The Citizen’s Blyth and Brussels through phone calls,” she said. offices.

“He’s a pretty good boy to get that together.”

McClinchey explained, in an email to The Citizen, that White built a home, raised a family and Blyth Laundromat eventually worked off the farm, but 191 Westmoreland St., Blyth retained her “cheerful and 519-523-9687 humorous personality” throughout

Laundromat

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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!

In the trees Liz Allan of the Maitland Valley Camera Club recently captured this stunning early winter image and shared it with The Citizen. (Photo courtesy of Liz Allan of the Maitland Valley Camera Club)

NEWS FROM BLYTH

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

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Londesborough United looking for volunteers

Last week’s edition of The Citizen included an article by Denny Scott about Wilhelmina Bakery. I have had some enquiries about where exactly the bakery is located. Wilhelmina Bakery is operated by Willeke Barten and is located on the Barten family farm.

The Bartens live on Winthrop Road, west of Highway 4 in the first mile and a quarter.

Back in August, there was an article naming two Huron County businesses that had each received $5,000 through the Starter Company Plus Program. It gave the impression the bakery was located in Londesborough, which was confusing. The grant was to support start-ups and growth efforts.

Willeke had to submit a formal written application, participate in mandatory business training and deliver a 10-minute explanation for her business/application. Now she needs your orders! You can find her on Facebook.

It is great to have a young person

taking that big step into business and to have received monetary support. And for that new business to be “in our neighbourhood”, so to speak, is great. Congratulations Willeke, and best of luck in your new venture.

My column last week left you with homework. How did you make out puzzling about the extravagant gifts in the carol “The 12 Days of Christmas”?

The three French hens represent faith, hope and love from 1 Cor. 13.

This love chapter of the New Testament was written by the Apostle Paul. Perhaps an easy answer is the one for the four calling birds. They represent the four gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.

Five golden rings are reminders of the first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy, which are known as the Torah, the law or the Pentateuch. Each of the six geese a-laying is a day in creation, the time when God formed or “hatched” the world. Keep pondering!

Josh and Morgan Yantzi lit the Candle of Peace in the Advent wreath, this second Sunday of the season in Londesborough United Church on Sunday, Dec. 5. Rev. Jan Aylward explained to those present that peace is, simply, the caring for one another.

The Spirit of Christmas will not

be quashed by the pandemic and Rev. Aylward gave the congregation a chance that Sunday to have a quiet carol sing and enjoy that seasonal music. This was also John the Baptist Sunday in the church calendar and Rev. Aylward chose Luke 3:3-17 as her morning scripture reading.

Both John the Baptist and Jesus had visions of how the world, faith and life should look. Both called out for radical change in the world and those changes are still needed.

As we celebrate the birth of a child the world continues to fail children worldwide. Rev. Jan reminded everyone that the very least one can do is pray for change. Christ is present in our lives to bring hope and peace to the world through each of us. She sent worshippers out into the world to let our light shine and give life to the world.

Volunteering is a two-way street.

While you help someone or an organization by volunteering time and talents you boost your own self-confidence and self esteem. To volunteer brings a sense of satisfaction, pride and identity and new friends. Even helping with the smallest thing can make a real difference to/for the people involved.

Londesborough United Church is looking for volunteers on various church committees.

These committees, and every church has the same needs, are small groups

with specific areas of church life with which to be involved and there are no board meetings to attend.

The added benefit here is that by being involved in a small group one is always aware of what is happening in the church as a whole.

Why not offer to help?! If churches are to remain open for future generations we need to come together now. Don't let our churches be another victim of the pandemic.

The media reports the Omicron variant is so easily transmissible that one case can potentially cause 10 to 15 infections. It could potentially overwhelm emergency rooms and ICUs. So continue to follow all the safety measures we are all tired of already and line up for your booster shot as soon as you are allowed.

NEWS FROM LONDESBORO

Helping out The Hullett Hawks Leadership Team hosted a number of events and activities as part of the Week of Kindness to help spread some holiday cheer and humanitarian help. Above, from left, Cole Mason, Carter Howson and Bryce Dale sold snowflake decorations to raise money for the Canadian Red Cross to assist flood victims in British Columbia. (Denny Scott photo)

Good Employees are hard to find

Spreading cheer Hullett Central Public School students, as part of their Week of Kindness last week, looked to spread some holiday cheer at local retirement and care homes. Students made holiday cards for the residents at Huronlea and Huronview sites. Showing off their personalized cards are, from left, Brad Cannon, Kylie Cressman, Alea Anderson and Everleigh Watson-Hart. (Denny Scott photo)

Big Jobs Let us help Little Jobs you find the Odd Jobs ideal person!

Even Dirty Jobs Place an ad in our classified section in

The Citizen

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

County seeks report for vehicle charger program

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron County is moving to the next step of an zero-emission vehicle infrastructure program (ZEVIP) that will mark collaboration between the county and its partner municipalities, which would require county funds, though a final decision has yet to be made.

The program dates back to last summer, when the county partnered with a company called ChargerCrew and three municipalities, Goderich, Huron East and North Huron, submitted applications for the program through Natural Resources Canada.

The county then received funding through the program to install 26 Level 2 electric vehicle charging

ports throughout the county. The county selected 12 locations and the remaining 14 would be dispersed across the partnering municipalities.

“As part of this partnership, ChargerCrew offered to lead the ZEVIP application on behalf of the county and local municipalities, offering to provide the capital for a full turnkey installation, including ongoing operation and maintenance for 10 years,” said Huron County Climate Change and Energy Specialist Lily Morrow in her report to council at its Dec. 1 meeting. “ChargerCrew would recover the cost of their investment through a user-pay system, in addition to receiving 50 per cent funding from Natural Resources Canada.”

Earlier this year, ChargerCrew

arranged to partner with SparkPark, an organization that would be providing 50 per cent of the financial investment in the project.

However, during the finalization stages, a conflict of interest was identified between the two companies, Morrow said in her report, and, as a result, SparkPark can no longer proceed as the investor in the partnership.

“In order to proceed in partnership with ChargerCrew to install 26 Level 2 electric vehicle charging ports, the county and local municipalities would be responsible for contributing 50 per cent of the total project cost, as well as owning and operating the chargers for 10 years,” Morrow said in her report.

“The total cost of the project is estimated at $260,000, with Natural Resources Canada contributing

Tools of the trade The Brussels station of the Huron East Fire Department recently purchased an extrication tool (spreaders) for firefighters to use when someone is trapped inside a vehicle. The purchase was made possible due to the donation of $2,500 from the Brussels Community Trust. From left: Brussels District Deputy-Chief Brian Deitner, Brussels District Chief Max McLellan and Huron East Councillor John Lowe, a member of the Brussels Community Trust Committee. (Photo submitted)

$130,000. The total cost would be confirmed by ChargerCrew once site assessments have been completed for the selected locations. The county and local municipalities would be responsible for paying 100 per cent of the total project cost, 50 per cent of which would be reimbursed by Natural Resources Canada after the project has been completed.”

If the county proceeds with the project, Morrow said, the county contribution would be an estimated $120,000 with a 50 per cent reimbursement from Natural Resources Canada once the project is completed.

North Huron Reeve Bernie Bailey said his municipality, one of the three named partner municipalities, was going to take a step back from the initiative, saying a lot had changed in regards to the financing of the project.

Huron East Deputy-Mayor Bob Fisher, however, felt that the funds should come from county reserves and the project should move ahead, despite losing a funding partner.

Central Huron Mayor Jim Ginn agreed, saying this would be a true opportunity for the county to be a leader in a green initiative. He pointed out that there are very few

things the county can do to make a substantial difference in the battle against climate change and this would be one of them, so he was supportive of the county funding its portion of the project.

Goderich Mayor John Grace also supported moving forward with the project, saying the move to electric vehicles is something that needed to happen.

Bluewater Mayor Paul Klopp said he was going to vote against the motion due to the loss of funding, while Ashfield-ColborneWawanosh Deputy-Mayor Roger Watt also expressed his feelings against moving ahead, but for technological reasons. Watt said the chargers being discussed would surely be obsolete before the 10-year pay-back period, so the county would be signing up to lose money on the chargers, which is why he said he was against it.

Council did approve a motion to move to the next step of the process, however, which is to direct staff to collaborate with the county’s partner municipalities to prepare a report on a strategy to proceed with the ZEVIP. No funds have been committed to the project yet.

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Local hunters finding success PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

There are just about seven days of school left and the children will be home for Christmas break. They are getting excited and talk about what they would like from Santa on the bus. The list of things is amazing, from little things like a doll or new skates, to big things like a new snowmobile. Yes, Christmas is just around the corner!

The farming year is drawing to a close with the harvest almost finished. During my travels this past week, we had some decent days to get more combining of corn and soybeans done. Lots of farmers are out plowing or working ground in some way and there is lots of manure being spread.

It was the second deer hunt last week and this time I did see many

groups of hunters on my travels. I have heard that groups managed to have a very successful hunt, filling their quota of tags. Numbers, with one more day to hunt, included 17, 12, 11 and 10 deer by some of the groups. There are now a few less deer around the countryside.

It was birthday time around our house on the weekend. Rick and granddaughter Brea have the same birthday, so there were two reasons to celebrate. It was made easy with a turkey dinner from the Legion and everyone coming to Scott and Alicia’s to enjoy. We had a short visit from Kelly and Adam and family because of the nasty weather arriving, but it was an enjoyable time for the birthday pair.

Travelling to Brussels on Sunday, I was surprised to see three tundra swans out in the field. I thought they were long gone to their winter homes by now. We also saw a bald eagle last week after months since the last sighting on Canada Company Road.

Celebrating birthdays this past week and to start December includes Cameron Blair, Tim Dionne, Daniel Fritz, Lilly Fraser, Scott Godkin, Justin Hoegy, Curtis

Wharton, Paul McCallum, Mary Bernard, Greg Bowers, Ron Godkin, Pat Langlois, Devin Bachert, Rick McDonald, Brea McDonald, Jeff Robinson, Mike Nolan, Mark Nolan, Liz Roth, Lorraine Blake, Aleah Haggitt and Glenda Morrison. Happy birthday to all.

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PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Sports Ironmen drop two games, fall to fourth place

Slipping in the standings The Wingham Ironmen had a weekend to forget with two close losses to Mount Forest and Mitchell that dropped them into fourth place in the North Pollock Division of the league. First they fell to Mitchell at home in Wingham by a score of 1-0 and then again on the road against Mount Forest by a score of 2-1. (John Stephenson photo)

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Wingham Ironmen started the weekend in third place, but, after posting losses to the Mitchell Hawks and the Mount Forest Patriots, dropped to fourth place behind the Patriots.

The Ironmen, after the two losses,

now have 22 points, two behind Mount Forest, 10 behind the Hanover Barons and 12 behind Mitchell.

WINGHAM 1 MOUNT FOREST 2 On Saturday, Dec. 4, the Wingham Ironmen travelled to Mount Forest, but fell to the Patriots 2-1 after the Patriots

rallied late in the game.

After a scoreless first period, Wingham’s Austin Becker broke the stalemate with a goal assisted

by Evan Visser in the second period. The goal was Becker’s fourth of the season.

In the third, Mount Forest’s Christopher Prucha tied the game with a marker assisted by Aaron

McGuirk and Darcy Winkler. With less than two minutes to play in the game, Mount Forest’s Malcolm Skeete scored to secure the win, with assists from Mark Aljoe and Prucha.

Devon Carson was in net for Wingham, stopping 41 of 43 shots, while Michael Brassor earned the win for Mount Forest, with 36 saves on 37 shots.

The game was a relatively clean affair for the Ironmen, who served six penalty minutes on three infractions. The Patriots, on the other hand, served 14 minutes on the same number of penalties.

In the first period, Wingham’s Nate Bloemberg was assessed a two-minute tripping penalty. Aljoe of Mount Forest was called for a two-minute head contact penalty as well as a 10-minute misconduct penalty for the same offence.

Following that, his teammate McGuirk served a two-minute tripping penalty.

The only penalty of the second period went to Jonah Burley of Wingham, who served a twominute tripping penalty.

Chris Adlys of Wingham had the only penalty of the third with a twominute cross-checking penalty.

MITCHELL 1 WINGHAM 0 On Friday, Dec. 3, the Wingham Ironmen hosted the Mitchell Hawks, however the home-ice advantage wasn’t enough, as the Hawks were able to score the only goal of the game, leading to the 1-0 shutout.

Both teams were active offensively, with each marking 36

shots on goal throughout the game.

Evan Dowd of Mitchell earned the only goal, a power-play effort assisted by Callan Ferguson and Sean Chisholm.

Tyler Parr earned the shutout victory for Mitchell while Wingham’s Garrett Golley stopped 35 of 36 shots.

Wingham served six penalty minutes on three infractions, while Mitchell was assessed 10 on five infractions.

The first penalty of the game was assessed to Wingham’s Austin McKeachnie who served a twominute interference penalty.

Mitchell’s Jared Lesouder then served two minutes for the same offence. Malcolm Mcleod of Mitchell had the last penalty of the period with a two-minute tripping violation.

Wingham’s Matt Tolton had the only penalty of the second period with a two-minute tripping offence.

The third period saw Wingham’s Burley assessed a two-minute penalty before Mitchell took three penalties within four minutes: a two-minute high-sticking penalty assessed to Seth Huygen, a twominute tripping offence called on Nolan Gagnier and another twominute tripping penalty assessed to Tyson Hall.

This weekend, Wingham will be on the road, taking on the fifthplace Kincardine Bulldogs on Dec. 10 and the sixth-place Walkerton Hawks on Dec. 12.

For more information, visit winghamironmen.pjhlon. hockeytech.com.

Wingham tournament a success says Cottrill

By Denny Scott The Citizen The annual Part II Tournament at the Wingham Golf and Curling Club “went great”, according to organizer Katie Cottrill.

Held late last month at the Morris-Turnberry facility, the event

welcomed 10 teams, including a team from Switzerland, ranked 21st in the world, who walked away with the top spot, Cottrill said.

“It was nice to have them there,” she said. “The Ontario teams gave them some good games, and, despite a loss, [the Swiss team] Continued on page 11

WRAP UP A GOOD BOOK THIS CHRISTMAS Growing up on a modest family farm in rural Ontario, Jane Ovington was never the delicate flower that her mother might have imagined her to be. Instead, Jane was a rough and tumble tomboy who was known to enjoy time in the barn, skipping school for an impromptu hunt, or mixing it up with the boys who dared to pick a fight.

As the years passed, Jane roused less rabble and opted to marry her childhood sweetheart, build a home, raise a family, and eventually transition into the off-farm workforce. She did this without letting go of her cheerful and humorous personality, and without forgetting her cherished family roots.

Finding success The annual Part II Tournament, held at the Wingham Golf and Curling Club, was a success according to organizer Katie Cottrill. The tournament was boosted by a team from Switzerland taking part, even in a season hamstrung by Olympic trials.

(John Stephenson photo)

Plain Jane shares these stories while exploring rural living in a simpler time. Whether seen through a local history lens, or as a lookback at the Ovington family, these recollections are informative, entertaining, and offer something for everyone.

Get your copy today.

For fast local delivery in time for the holidays, call/text 226-980-9193 or send an email to gregmcclinchey@yahoo.ca Also available at The Citizen offices

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 11.

County pledges its support for centre

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Big event Katie and Shawn Cottrill, not shown, once again organized the Part II Bistro Ladies Classic at the Wingham Golf and Curling Club late last month. The event was a success according to Katie, bringing in 10 teams, including one from Switzerland. Cottrill said she is looking forward to next year’s event, but is focused on the Ontario Mixed Doubles Tournament, which is set at the club in February. (John Stephenson photo)

Feb. curling event filling up Continued from page 10 ended up coming out on top.”

The tournament was smaller than it has been in previous years, Cottrill said, due in part to people being more selective about travelling this year, but also due to some scheduling conflicts with 2021 being an Olympic tryouts year.

“Some teams are in the Olympic trials,” she said. “Typically we have senior women’s teams here, but there’s a conflict there because of [the trials], as well as people getting back into it after a full season away.”

Aside from the teams, she said there was significant interest in the community with many people coming out to watch and many

taking part in the annual dinner fundraiser catered by the Part II Bistro.

“We had additional ticket sales from that which helped,” she said.

“We were able to social distance and have a number of people out.

It was definitely a successful event.”

The tournament also featured a fundraiser for the curling club’s junior program, which drew great support, Cottrill said.

While she hopes to host the event again next year, right now her focus is on the mixed doubles tournament at the club, set for Feb. 18-20, which already has 20 mixed doubles teams entered.

“It’s almost full,” she said about next year’s tournament. “There’s a

Walking the walk Nancy Jardin has volunteered items from her personal, extensive angel collection for Trinity Anglican Church’s upcoming Angel Walk, set for Friday night at the church. The event will run from 4-8 p.m. and everyone is welcomed to the church to see the display and enjoy some hot apple cider. Donations to the North Huron Community Food Share will also be accepted. (Photo submitted)

lot of interest in that this year.”

For more information, follow Team Cottrill on Facebook.

Correction In an article in the Nov. 18 issue of The Citizen, the profits posted by the Blyth Campground for 2021 should have read $15,000, not $1,500. The Citizen apologizes for the error and any confusion it may have caused.

Huron County Council is moving ahead with allocating five hours of staff time per month to the Huron Perth Ag. Science Centre, planned to be constructed in Listowel.

Council discussed the issue at a meeting late last month after those planning to create the centre spoke as a delegation to Huron County Council in October to discuss their plans.

The centre will represent a partnership between those looking to create the centre and the Municipality of North Perth after a Trillium Grant allowed for the funding of a feasibility study last year. The study, conducted by Lord Cultural Resources, the largest museum planning firm in the world, found that there are no children’s museums or science centres in Canada with a strong focus on agriculture.

The closest establishment is a collectionsfocused national museum in Ottawa called the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum.

The study suggested a change in focus from a children’s museum to an agricultural science centre, which would make it the first of its kind in Canada. The estimated size of the centre is upwards of 21,000 square feet, with estimated capital costs of nearly $14 million.

The study anticipated the centre opening in 2024 with an annual on-site attendance of 42,000 people.

The study found that earned income, such as admission and membership fees, retail revenue, rentals and fundraising, would likely cover 55 per cent of the annual operating budget of between $1 million and $1.1 million, and the remainder of the funds would need

to come from government and private support.

In regards to the location of the centre, North Perth Council voted unanimously to donate the land for the project, though a final location has yet to be determined.

At the Nov. 17 meeting of Huron County Council, Economic Development Officer Alexander Ripley said the five hours of county staff time would come from the economic development department and would be used for questions, advice and research support for the project.

At the time of the October presentation, council requested a feasibility report on the organizers’ request for staff time and Ripley determined that it can be accommodated by the department.

Furthermore, Ripley stated that the county aligning itself with the centre was smart because it shares many of the county’s ideals as well.

“Moreover, the Huron Perth Ag. Science Centre’s ‘plan to open the first-ever not-for-profit agricultural-focused science centre in Canada, which will feature all aspects of science, technology, engineering, art/agriculture and mathematics (STEAM), while exploring the past, present, and future of agriculture’ is wellaligned with the department’s mandate and existing programming,” Ripley said in his report to council.

As for the centre, the organizers have many plans for special exhibits and events, but its next steps are to grow its board of directors, build further partnerships, develop a budget and a business plan based on the results of the feasibility study and begin its capital funding campaign.

Council approved Ripley’s recommendation.

PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

IT’S CELEBRATION TIME....at the

Blyth Santa Claus Parade S a t u r d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 th 11 am Main Street Bl yth For More Information: visit our Facebook page: Blyth Community Betterment Enjoy the festivities in Blyth Gifts they will love!

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 13.

Nominations wanted for Thompson awards

Scramble The Blyth Brussels U15 Local League Crusaders took on the BCH Ice Dogs at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre on Saturday afternoon. The game included plenty of action, including the above scramble in front of the net, though a score was unavailable as of press time. (John Stephenson photo)

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson is once again calling for nominations for this year’s “Remarkable Citizens” to recognize the dedication and volunteer work done by local residents.

This year, due to COVID-19, the MPP is planning on hosting a virtual levee on Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022 to ring in the new year and to salute both this year’s and last year’s recipients. Details will be announced later this month.

Each year, remarkable citizens who are respected and dedicated community leaders, volunteers and residents are celebrated for their positive community impact.

“We have all been through a lot these past few months,” Thompson said. “But I know there are many, many outstanding and remarkable citizens who are doing their part to help others during this pandemic as well as being engaged citizens and making a difference in their

Merry Christmas from Huron Pioneer Thresher & Hobby Association

Blyth’s Santa Claus Parade

11 am ~ Main Street Blyth

Blyth Community Betterment

Welcome to Blyth and the Santa Claus Parade

Blyth Lions Club

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The Citizen 405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

Blyth Laundromat

Wishing everyone a great time at the Parade!

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For More Information: visit our Facebook page:

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Phone for info ~ 519-523-9687 191 Westmoreland St., Blyth

See you at the show in 2022!

Saturday, December 11

communities. As I have said before, volunteers are the lifeblood of every community, and I have been honoured with the opportunity to meet so many across the riding.”

To nominate someone, describe in approximately 250 words, the person’s contribution to the community and why you feel they are deserving, and send it to diane.foxton@pc.ola.org. Please include contact information (mailing address, e-mail, and phone number) for both the nominee and the nominator. Also include two photographs of the nominee.

The nomination deadline is 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 17, 2021. For more information, contact Diane Foxton at 519-396-3007.

“We may not be able to be in person for the levee,” Thompson added, “but there will be plenty of virtual hugs to hand out as we applaud the volunteer work of our local community champions.”

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519-523-4793 • www.spaessentialsblyth.com

PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Survey results could be skewed: Falconer Continued from page 2 of the respondents were from outside of the municipality all together, with only 10 and 12 per cent coming from East Wawanosh and Blyth respectively.

Brown once again said the survey was just one aspect of the study, but did say that, upon review, his firm found there weren't significant differences between the survey results regardless of where the respondents were located.

Seip then questioned whether a skatepark was needed for a handful of local youth, but reminded council it could draw visitors from outside the community.

Brown said youth need something to do in a community to prevent gatherings that may look, but aren’t usually, nefarious.

He said skateboarding gives them an outlet, so it’s worth

Not for lack of trying

it even with minimal use.

“I find, in my experience, with my own kids, that the kids that go there regularly are great kids,” he said, adding they foster other people into the activity.

Reeve Bernie Bailey said council’s final input on the document, which is scheduled for the Dec. 20 meeting, will be better informed as staff are going to be presenting usage statistics of local facilities. He said the numbers will “shock” council, referring specifically to the number of users who come from outside the community.

Council received the document, adopted it as a guiding document for planning and budget processes and directed staff to include the document on the Dec. 20 agenda for council to provide additional direction.

The Wingham Ironmen were downed 1-0 by the first-place Mitchell Hawks over the weekend, however, it wasn’t due to a lack of effort on the Ironmen’s part. Mitchell goaltender Tyler Parr, above, stopped 36 consecutive shots to earn the shutout win.

(John Stephenson photo)

Six per cent have third shot Continued from page 1 provincial reopening matrix with an incidence rate of 47.9 (the number of cases per 100,000 people) and a positivity per cent (the percentage of tests with a positive result) of 2.75 per cent.

VACCINATION Huron-Perth Public Health reported a significant uptake in its first weeks of vaccine eligibility for five-to-11-year-olds. The inclusion of that cohort, however, changes the number of eligible recipients, resulting in lower overall vaccination coverage percentages.

The number of residents five years old and over with at least one dose increased from 109,783 to 111,950 over the past week, representing 81 per cent of eligible recipients. The number of fullyvaccinated individuals rose from 106,558 to 106,807, representing 77 per cent of eligible recipients vaccinated. The number of fullyvaccinated recipients with three doses is at 8,531 or six per cent of the eligible population.

Community demographic statistics as follows for those with at least one vaccination (please note that some of the percentages and values have dropped and HPPH hadn’t responded with a reason as of press time): • 5-11: 2,420 (20.4 per cent of eligible recipients) • 12-17: 8,080 (85.5) to 7,672 (76.3) • 18-24: 8,623 (73.9) to 8,652 (71.4) • 25-29: 6,819 (73.4) to 6,840 (80)

• 30-39: 13,275 (75.2) to 13,315 (81.2) • 40-49: 13,141 (81.8) to 13,169 (82.2) • 50-59: 16,955 (87.2) to 16,976 (85.1) • 60-69: 20,359 (94.6) to 20,370 (97.8) • 70-79: 14,469 (99.7) to 14,471 (99.7) • 80+: 8,062 (97.5) to 8,065 (99.7) Fully-vaccinated statistics are as follows: • 5-11: 301 (2.5 per cent of eligible recipients) • 12-17: 7,692 (81.4) to 7,413 (73.7) • 18-24: 8,210 (70.4) to 8,258 (68.1) • 25-29: 6,436 (69.3) to 6,483 (75.8) • 30-39: 12,719 (72.1) to 12,777 (77.9) • 40-49: 12,749 (79.4)12,776

(79.8) • 50-59: 16,581 (85.2) to 16,604 (83.3) • 60-69: 20,036 (93.1) to 20,049 (96.3) • 70-79: 14,229 (8.3) to 14,233 (99.7) • 80+: 7.906 (95.6) to 7.913 (97.9) Fully-vaccinated with third booster statistics are as follows: • 12-17: 23 (0.2 per cent of eligible recipients) • 18-24: 139 (1.1) • 25-29: 169 (2.0) • 30-39: 463 (2.8 • 40-49: 532 (3.3) • 50-59: 815 (4.1) • 60-69: 1261 (6.1) • 70-79: 2603 (18.5) • 80+: 2526 (31.3) For more information or to view the region’s statistics for yourself, visit hpph.ca.

Remember Last Winter?

Well-earned Howick Mutual Insurance recently donated $2,500 to the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund, which is enough to purchase one defibrillator. Fund Founder Patrick Armstrong, left, accepted the donation from Jennifer Elston of Howick Mutual. (Courtesy photo)

No Need To Go Out In That!

The Citizen now accepts Visa & MasterCard at our Blyth location

Order from the comfort of your own home Welcome Your New Arrival in

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• advertise • subscribe • buy books Call our Blyth office 405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 15.

Local Gift Guide Check out the u gifts availa nique Christmas ble in Seafo rth

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

Our ‘Downtown’ mechants are welcoming you!

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

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

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

Coming events Help wanted Help wanted In memoriam TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH, 166 Dinsley Street, Blyth presents Trinity Angel Walk: The public is invited to come and enjoy an outstanding display of angels throughout the Trinity Anglican Church on Friday, Dec. 10, 4-8 p.m.

Enjoy a cup of hot cider after the Angel Walk. Donations for our mitten tree (Salvation Army) or North Huron Food Bank would be appreciated.

48-2b

Announcements ST. AMBROSE CHURCH, Brussels raffle, originally scheduled for March 28, 2020 was held Nov. 27, 2021. The winners are: $200 cash, Bernadette Terpstra; $100 cash, Karen Brinke, St. Marys; $75 cash, Crystal Blake, Brussels; $50 cash, Deb Coultes, Brussels; $25 cash, Tanya Terpstra, Atwood A huge thank you to everyone who bought tickets to support the church fundraiser.

49-1

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

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

Prices varying from $13 - $33, filled with local specialties such as honey, jam, maple syrup, apple chips, breakfast granola, Maitside’s crisp fresh apples. Each priced basket has its selected items, 23 Orchard Line.

Order today, 519-835-0099. Cash or cheque only.

47-4p -------------------------------------------GERBERS FIREWOOD SERVING you for over 10 years. Your number one source of quality slabwood and bodywood. Delivery available. No Sunday calls. 519-656-2057, 519441-2085.

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

Card of thanks THE AUXILIARY TO THE Wingham and District Hospital thank all for your contribution to the success of our recent bake sale. Your support enables us to continue purchasing necessary equipment for our hospital. The community’s support is especially appreciated.

Blessings for the Christmas season.

– The Auxiliary.

49-1

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Relief Snow Plow Operator – Seasonal

Visit the Township of Huron-Kinloss website to view this employment opportunity. https://www.huronkinloss.com/en/townhall/careers.aspx

POSITION AVAILABLE BLYTH VETERINARY SERVICES is looking to hire a part- to full-time office staff to join our enthusiastic and busy team

Help wanted FARM LABOURER – FULL-TIME position at Dairy sheep farm in Blyth. Duties: milking and feeding sheep, besides general farm work, $15/hour, 50 - 60 hours a week.

Early mornings, day and evening shifts, also every other weekend.

Experience with livestock an asset.

Contact Paul at email: sheepfarm_vdorp@hotmail.com 47-3p --------------------------------------------

Responsibilities range from reception to veterinary assistance on farm, including: • Serving clients in the office • Answering phones for emergency triage, orders and appointments • Assisting office manager in clinic and veterinarians on farm • Familiarity with veterinary medicine, agriculture, local geography, accounting and word processing are an asset.

Bring a résumé to the office at 234 Queen Street Blyth or email: blythvet@tcc.on.ca.

Successful applicants will be invited to an interview.

COMMUNITY LIVING-CENTRAL HURON Senior Case Manager Permanent, Full-Time Community Living-Central Huron is dedicated to full inclusion and citizenship for all individuals. The Agency provides for an individualized strength based approach to providing person-directed planning for inclusive community participation.

The successful applicant will be responsible for coaching and supervising a number of staff who support people with developmental disabilities within various support services. The focus will be to ensure the provision of quality, individualized supports enabling people supported to live full and inclusive lives.

Requirements/Qualifications: x x x x x x x x x x x x x x

Minimum 4 years’ experience in Developmental Services & Post-Secondary Education in a related field; Minimum 4 years’ supervisory experience; Ensure compliance with, and effective interpretation of, Agency Policies & Procedures; Knowledge of legislation, financial, medical, psychological, social, vocational, residential and advocacy services for adults with developmental disabilities; Ensure compliance with Quality Assurance Measures, MCCSS and OHSA; experience with nonprofit agencies an asset; Demonstrated knowledge of Person-Directed Planning; Proven ability to work independently, collaboratively and within a team; Experience with Collective Agreements and budgeting; Experience with hiring, orientating and staff scheduling for 24-hour locations; Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as time management and leadership skills; Provide on-call rotation support; Valid Class G Ontario Driver’s License, $2 Million third party liability insurance and use of a reliable vehicle; Current Emergency level First Aid Certification Certificate in Non-Violence Crisis Intervention training an asset Competitive salary & benefit package.

Deadline for submissions: December 15, 2021; 4:00pm Please forward cover letter and resume to: Human Resources Community Living-Central Huron 267 Suncoast Dr. E, P.O. Box 527 Goderich, ON N7A 4C7 Email: hr@clch.ca Only those receiving an interview will be contacted.

Community Living-Central Huron welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

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

www.huroncitizen.ca

POPP. In loving memory of Lorne Popp who died 20 years ago on December 11, 2001 and a dear son Larry Popp (1959-1970) who was killed in 1970 while riding his bicycle. – Remembered by the family.

49-1p

Personal ARE YOU EXPERIENCING AN unplanned pregnancy? Are you a young parent? Do you feel overwhelmed and have questions?

We have answers and we’re here to help. Our services are free and completely confidential. Contact Room2Grow at 519-606-0046 or visit our website www.room2grow.info e6w

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 17

Classified Advertisements Notices

Notices

Tender

Municipality of Huron East

PUBLIC NOTICE

TAKE NOTICE that a vacancy exists on the Municipality of Huron East Council for one (1) Councillor - Brussels Ward and that Council has determined to fill this vacancy by appointment in accordance with Section 263 1 (a) of the Municipal Act, 2001.

Tender

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

For tender forms and other particulars contact:

The term of this position is from the date of the Council appointment to when the new Council is sworn in after the 2022 Municipal and School Board Election.

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

A candidate for municipal office must be a qualified municipal elector as set out in the Municipal Election Act, 1996. Prior to submitting an application, interested individuals should refer to the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Municipal Elections Act, 1996 for further details relating to the required qualifications.

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

Any qualified individual must submit the following in person to the Clerk by 2:00 p.m. local time on December 9, 2021: • Council Vacancy Application Form; • Declaration of Qualification; and • Freedom of Information (FOI) Release Form Candidates shall also submit to the Clerk by the closing time for nominations, a personal statement including their background information, relevant qualifications, and why they are interested in the position for consideration of Council. These personal statements will be typewritten on letter size (8 1/2 x 11) paper, shall not exceed two (2) pages in length (one sided) and will include the candidates name and address. Please review the Council Vacancy Replacement Procedure for further details.

Please note: These documents must be filed in person; it may not be faxed or emailed. To book an appointment to file with the Clerk contact clerk@huroneast.com or 519-527-0160 ext. 37.

By Board of Directors, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Strong leadership is the foundation of any government, organization or business. What makes Ontario’s agri-food industry resilient is the abundance of strong and confident farm leaders we have, building a bright future for the next generation.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) prides itself on having quality leaders at all levels of its organization; from our county

“SWAP SHOP” ad Let us help you turn that junk into $$ • Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster!

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

Call 519-523-4792 or email: info@northhuron.on.ca FOR SALE - 4 Bridgestone Blizzak WS70 snow tires and rims, low mileage; 215/60 R16 95T, $250 o.b.o. Call 519-523-9668.

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

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

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

48-3 ------------------------------------------FOR SALE - apartment-sized Gerhard Heintzman piano and bench (medium brown colour), needs tuning, must pick up (Listowel), $500. Call 519-2914175. Would make a lovely Christmas gift!

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OFA invests in leadership dev.

Citizen-To-Citizen

FOR SALE - three-month-old grey fabric sofa bed. New was $1,800, asking $500. 519-357-0624. 49-3 ------------------------------------------FOR SALE - kittens, tabby with white markings, using litter box, 10 weeks old, also one sylvester female kitten, friendly, 3 months old, reasonable, Harriston, mornings, 519-338-2688.

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49-3 ------------------------------------------FREE - one sofa bed, good condition, good working bed frame, good mattress, complete with memory foam topper, very clean, available for pick up in Blyth. 416294-7477.

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

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FOR SALE - queen-size box spring, four years old, excellent condition, $250. Call 519-5253125, Walton area.

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47-3 ------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Barcana Eastern Pine artificial Christmas tree, 7.5', $65; outdoor icicle lights, clear bulbs, 24', $15; metal snow scoop mover, 24" wide, $10; small blonde round table, 42" diameter with two folddown leaves, includes matching chairs, $85. 519-523-4711. 47-3 ------------------------------------------FOR SALE - nice green 7' artificial Christmas tree, new in 2015, lights working, $50. 519-600-2208. 47-3 ------------------------------------------FOR SALE - pre-lit Christmas tree with pine cones and white berries, $75, Clinton area. 519-440-2495.

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and regional federations to the provincial board table. The OFA strives to foster young leaders and encourage them to get more involved in different areas of the industry as an opportunity to develop the skills necessary to drive success for the agri-food sector and their communities. We recognize that encouragement, positive feedback and mentorship can be extremely valuable to those venturing into a leadership role for the first time.

As a grassroots organization, we believe the support and development of leadership starts at the local level. As part of our strategic direction, we have regularly reached out to engage young leaders and get them involved in provincial advocacy efforts, meetings and discussions.

These opportunities provide our grassroots with the opportunity to engage in a leadership capacity, personal growth and experiences that will positively develop leadership skills.

Ethan Wallace, an active farm leader and grassroots member in his community, utilized these opportunities to not only enhance his knowledge and interest of the OFA’s government relations work, but to also learn from board members to develop into a leadership role. These leadership and skill development opportunities helped to encourage him to take the next step and run for Zone Director in his respective region. Last month, Wallace was elected by the membership in Huron and Perth Counties to represent their interests on the Board of Directors. He begins his new role immediately following the 2021 Annual General Meeting in November.

At the provincial level, the OFA is fortunate to have many board members around our table who have graduated from the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP). As a proud founding member and longstanding support of AALP, the organization invests in the next generation of farm and rural leaders by contributing financially and sponsoring the OFA staff and board members as a professional development opportunity. OFA recognizes AALP as a premier leadership program in Ontario that provides participants with a diverse perspective and

opportunity to expand their knowledge of the industry.

The OFA appreciates the ongoing commitment of the Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) to continue to develop leaders and facilitate collaboration across Ontario.

Programs such as AALP can significantly benefit individuals and organizations in the sense that it focuses on elevating leaders in agriculture and rural communities, while positioning graduates to take action and help make meaningful change and contributions to their communities.

Peggy Brekveld, OFA president and a Class 12 graduate, shares that this program served as a catalyst in helping to get her to where she is today. The experience helped to strengthen her leadership skills and qualities. This program broadened her knowledge and understanding of the industry, while also giving her more confidence as a leader.

Directors Jackie KellyPemberton and Paul Vickers graduated from Class 14 together.

The program provided KellyPemberton with the tools and knowledge she needed to move towards her goal of getting more involved in Ontario’s agri-food sector. “AALP gave me a new perspective on the industry and helped me to better understand issues and priorities from a policy level,” said Kelly-Pemberton.

For Vickers, AALP taught him how to think more strategically and look at situations in terms of the bigger picture.

Director Teresa Van Raay believes it was the perfect environment to challenge yourself and build confidence in your leadership development. “AALP gave me opportunities to speak, present, and lead,” she explained. “I strongly recommend this program to anyone interested in developing leadership skills, as it opens up your network in the alumni and provides the freedom to make mistakes and learn from them.”

Jennifer Doelman, Director and Class 11 participant, shares that the program opened her eyes to the impacts positive leadership can have on a community. “Not only did I gain the skills I needed to become a leader, but it has also provided me with a unique Continued on page 18

PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

519-523-4311

www.ruralvoice.ca

Agriculture

BLYTH 519-523-4244

www.hurontractor.com

Brussels Livestock report

Calves sell steady, second-cut easier at sale Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending Dec. 3 were 1,975 cattle and 671 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday, fed steers and heifers sold steady. Choice steers and heifers sold $156 to $164.50.

Second-cut cattle sold $146 to $155. Aged and medium-fed steers and heifers sold $125 to $149.

Holstein steers and heifers sold $85 to $127. Cows sold steady.

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

On Friday, calves sold steady

with second-cut selling on an easier market. Yearlings sold steady to last week’s high market.

Suzanne Coleman of Kippen, consigned five head. One black heifer weighed 1,505 lbs. and sold for a price of $163.50.

There were 475 cows on offer.

Beef sold $65 to $77.50; good holstein cows, $59 to $77; medium holstein cows, $51 to $59.

There were 120 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $150 to $186; good holsteins, $150 to $175; SL heavy holsteins, $145 to $171; medium holsteins, $135 to $145.

Bennewies Livestock Inc. of Bornholm, consigned seven head. One holstein steer weighed 735 lbs. and sold for a price of $175.

Lambs, 50 - 64 lbs. sold $454.50 to $503; 65 - 79 lbs., $489.50 to $389; 80 - 94 lbs., $294.50 to $348; 95 - 109 lbs., $277.50 to $320; 110 lbs. and over, $244.50 to $275.

Sheep sold $150 to $275.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $400; nannies, $100 to $225; kids: meat, $330 to $500; dairy, $250 to $395.

John Reuber of Mildmay, consigned 13 head. One lamb

weighed 58 lbs. and sold for a price of $503.

Todd Sheep Company of Lucknow, consigned 28 head. Eight lambs averaged 62 lbs. and sold for an average price of $502.

Andreas and Petra Aeberhardj of Neustadt, consigned 26 head.

Twelve lambs averaged 61 lbs. and sold for an average price of $500.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $218 to $243; 400 499 lbs., $226 to $242; 500 - 599 lbs., $221.50 to $243; 600 - 699 lbs., $216.50 to $243; 700 - 799 lbs., $196 to $211; 800 - 899 lbs.,

Learning opportunities help representatives Continued from page 17 understanding of the industry and food value chain.” OFA VicePresident Mark Reusser had a similar experience, sharing that AALP is the perfect opportunity for expert leadership training to help expand one’s mind and knowledge.

In his experience, the greater goal of the program is to immerse one in

the process and share one’s insight with potential new leaders in one community.

Along with board members, the OFA has encouraged and supported staff to take advantage of this experience. Danielle Collins, economic development policy analyst, explains how the program provided her with more information

than one could ever find in a textbook.

“The hands-on experience, educational training and connections made throughout this journey has helped me expand and grow as a leader.”

This past week, the participants of AALP Class 19 were announced, which includes another OFA representative in Director Tracey

Arts. “I’m excited to be accepted into the program,” said Arts. “As a Director, I’m here to strongly serve OFA members, and AALP will broaden my agriculture knowledge, network and ability to advocate for the sector.”

The organization is sponsoring Arts’ involvement as a professional development opportunity. We look forward to following and supporting her throughout this experience as she continues to passionately contribute to the betterment of agriculture and rural Ontario.

With strong, confident and knowledgeable leaders at the table, the potential for economic growth and development in agriculture and our rural communities remains endless. If you’ve ever considered getting involved and taking on a leadership role, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local federation or an OFA board member.

$203 to $215; 900 - 999 lbs., $204 to $211; 1,000 lbs. and over, $194 to $206.25.

Top quality stocker heifers, 400 499 lbs., $170.50 to $189; 500 - 599 lbs., $165.50 to $178; 600 - 699 lbs., $157.50 to $187; 700 - 799 lbs., $157 to $166; 800 - 899 lbs., $158.50 to $180; 900 lbs. and over, $170.50 to $180.

Craig Simpson of Glencoe, consigned 15 head. Five charolais heifers averaged 976 lbs. and sold for an average price of $176.50.

Scottslea Farms Ltd. of Blyth, consigned 66 head. Twenty-eight charolais steers averaged 623 lbs. and sold for an average price of $243.

Ervin H. Martin of Lucknow, consigned six head. Six gold steers averaged 977 lbs. and sold for an average price of $208.50.

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK Division of Gamble & Rogers Ltd.

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Keep up with the latest agri-businesses and the best of rural living!

Reversed!

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The community of Clinton celebrated the holiday season over the weekend with a reversed Santa Claus parade that saw parade-goers visit each float in their vehicles.

for 12 issues

(John Stephenson photo)

$35

NH to consider cannabis setbacks

By Denny Scott The Citizen North Huron Township Council will be considering a zoning bylaw amendment to establish cannabis manufacturing facility setbacks from sensitive areas early next year.

During council’s Monday night meeting, Huron County Planner Hanna Homan advised council to pursue such a document, saying that the lack of guidelines from higher-tier governments could prove problematic for the municipality.

She said that municipalities are realizing that the odour from the facilities can be a nuisance and, lacking setbacks, council could find a facility constructed or located

close to residential lands, causing complaints.

She said several other municipalities in the county and province have adopted plans to combat the issue already.

Reeve Bernie Bailey confirmed the setbacks would only be for manufacturing sites and not impact the warehouse that already exists in the municipality, since it’s not creating the offensive odours. He was fully committed, however, to solving this problem before it starts.

“When you get into manufacturing, it’s nothing but a headache,” he said. “It’s an unbelievable smell and lingers forever.”

He said the problems in Huron East, specifically Vanastra, are

proof of that and the proximity of cannabis manufacturing sites is a “very big problem”.

Councillor Chris Palmer asked if such a ruling would matter to the municipality’s neighbours, saying it makes no sense to limit development in North Huron only to have a facility built across the road from residential properties.

Homan said the proposed bylaw would be shared with neighbours in hopes they would respect it, if not create their own. She did say, however, that Morris-Turnberry had already adopted such setbacks.

Council received the report and directed staff to schedule a public meeting to consider setbacks at its Jan. 17, 2022 regular council meeting.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 19.

Keeping the peace Glimpses of the Past with Karen Webster Though gone for many years, a small building located on the south side of King Street, just west of Queen Street had an arresting aspect. This building was the Blyth jail, which was built in 1878, just one year after the incorporation of the village of Blyth. At that time, the population numbered around 850 people.

The jail consisted of four tiny cells with a pot-bellied stove in the

centre of the building. It wasn’t as secure as modern-day structures and prisoners often broke bars to achieve their freedom. To give prisoners exercise, the village constable would take them for a walk on the Blyth fairgrounds located two blocks east of the jail.

Many men have held the position of Village Constable or Village Chief. The Huron Expositor of March, 1882 reported that “Mr.

Kinsmen barbecue well attended again PEOPLE AROUND BELGRAVE

By Linda Campbell Call 357-2188

The Belgrave Kinsmen had a good turnout for their pork chop barbecue on Dec. 4. Thanks to all those who helped in any way and to those who purchased tickets to support this fundraising event. The food bank donations will also help families in need.

Mackenzie Wightman played inspiring prelude and postlude music and accompanied all the hymns at Knox United Church on Sunday, Dec. 5. Rev. Bill McAusland (retired United Church minister) led the service.

Lila Procter lit the candle of Hope and the candle of Love on the Advent wreath. Rev. McAusland took the congregation through the paths of the wilderness of life.

These paths are anything but smooth, but they lead us to the birth

of Christ. Let us all praise the journey of life to the birth of Christianity and happiness.

Nancy Folkard and Doris Robinson were thanked for doing a great job again of decorating the church for the festive season.

There will be communion on Sunday, Dec. 12 with Rev. Bill McAusland.

Kruse, Chief Constable of Blyth for many years has been smitten with Manitoba fever and is departing for Winnipeg.”

James Davis, was an Englishman who arrived in Blyth with his wife, Elizabeth, and two sons between 1872 and 1876. During Davis’s tenure, the justice of the peace was William Drummond, the man who conceived the idea of making his father’s farm into a town plot. Court hearings in the early days were held in Industrial Hall, where the Hotel Lux is in 2021.

Although much of Constable Davis’s duties focused on locking up drunks and tramps, there were some more exciting times to be had.

The Huron Expositor in November of 1889 tells us that “Mr. Davis, chief constable of Blyth, had a very close call the other day. He dropped his revolver on the floor when by some means it went off, the bullet passing through the bench on which he was sitting. His escape was almost miraculous, as the bullet passed between his legs as he sat on the bench.”

Also that same year, a serious crime that Davis investigated was when the stable of Mr. A. Sloan was entered and someone cut off the manes and tails of two of his horses.

As well, some pieces of harness were cut. James Davis, died in 1898 of appendicitis at the age of 53 years.

A man by the last name of Barr was noted as in charge in 1903.

A subsequent constable was named Westlake. The Blyth Standard of June, 1907 relates that “Chief Westlake arrested a person on the main street for being drunk and disorderly and he appeared before Magistrates Milne and Wilford, who fined him $5 and costs. He is still in the cooler while his friends are trying to collect enough money to let him out.”

A more serious crime occurred in 1908, when the private bank of James McMurchie was robbed of approximately $1,100. Some unfamiliar men had been seen in the village the day previous to the robbery. The safe had been forced open by the use of two blasts.

Because the weather that night was very windy, the blasts were unnoticed until the next morning when Mr. McMurchie arrived. The safe had to be replaced and a vault was added. Someone was later arrested in Milton and a trial in Goderich was likely.

Also in the list of men who served as village constable was John Ferguson. While in Blyth, he also was a firefighter. His career later took him to Goderich for six years then on to Exeter where he became part of the County of Huron Police Force. In 1949, he was called to Grand Bend to help escort a highly agitated prisoner to the jail in Goderich. In the course of restraining the prisoner, Ferguson suffered a heart attack and died.

All in all, there was not enough crime in Blyth to keep one man busy fighting it, and the constable took on other responsibilities. Some of the other duties of the Blyth

Constable when John Cowan held the position in 1938 included: Chief of Police for the village; Clerk of the scales – when farmers wish to use the scales they must look up the chief; Sanitary Engineer- health of the village; see that the grounds of the town’s Memorial Hall are kept in order; see that the interior of the hall is always kept clean; must be present when council meets and weed inspector. The remuneration for village constables was not great and these men often had other vocations such as auctioneer, farmer, street superintendent and bakery employee.

Some other constables were men called Summers (1910 era), Jack Staples (around 1950), Jack Bailey (1953-1961), Fred Gregory and James Warwick, who assumed the office in 1964.

In 1944, the police commission of Huron County ceased to employ a traffic officer and created the position of a fourth county constable to be stationed in Blyth.

Other county constables were John Ferguson, Exeter, Elmer Snell, Seaforth and Charles Salter in Wingham.

Today, Blyth is protected by the Ontario Provincial Police as part of a county-wide area with headquarters in Clinton. These officers receive extensive training that previous lawmen in Blyth would not have had access to but are unlikely to know the citizenry as well as the early constables did.

With a nod to Blyth: A Village Portrait, Susan Street, editor, 1977, the digitized newspapers of the Huron County Library and Museum and the files of the Blyth Repository of History.

NEWS FROM BELGRAVE

Well done The Blyth Brussels U21 Crusaders came home from the Lucknow Regional Silver Stick tournament with a special award for both skill and sportsmanship, even if the team didn’t come away with the gold. (Photo submitted)

MVP Last weekend, the Blyth Brussels U21 Crusaders took their talents to the Lucknow Regional Silver Stick tournament and went undefeated, with one win and two draws. The team didn’t move on to the finals, but it was named the team that best combined its skill and sportsmanship in the tournament. Along the way, team captain Darian Fritz was named the most valuable player in the team’s 3-1 over Walkerton. He was awarded by Sam Irwin of Silver Stick. (Photo submitted)

PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

Huron County to pursue housing renewal plan

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron County Council is moving ahead with a new housing renewal plan in the hopes of identifying opportunities for intensification and redevelopment.

Barbara Hall, the county’s director of social and property services, presented a report on the project at a recent meeting of Huron County Council. She said the purpose of the plan is to “identify opportunities to create more affordable housing units, to ensure that the county maintains a series of ‘shovel-ready’ properties for housing investment and, finally, to position the [county] to respond efficiently and effectively to grant opportunities relating to affordable housing.”

The plan will contain two components, Hall said. The first is a housing supply analysis that will examine the current stock of

county-owned housing properties and identify strategies and recommendations for increasing the number of housing units. In her report, Hall said this could be achieved through intensification of existing properties, acquisition of new properties, additional strategies for incorporating affordable units and further redevelopment.

“All county-owned sites operated under the local housing corporation (consisting of 15 apartment buildings and 84 family units, comprised of either row housing, [semi-detached] or single detached dwellings) will be analyzed and those which meet the highest number of criteria (such as number of additional units, location, site preparedness, servicing availability, etc.) will have development concepts prepared with development and financial metrics,” Hall said in her report.

“The Housing Supply Analysis

will be prepared by Tim Welch Consulting, which is a firm that specializes in affordable housing development and has completed work for the county over the years, most recently presenting to Sustainable Huron in June, 2021, regarding innovative housing models to deliver affordable housing.”

The second phase of the project will be architectural elevations and site plans for select sites.

For this portion of the project, sites with high potential for intensification will have plans and architectural renderings prepared in order to demonstrate project viability. Hall said the selected projects should range in both size and type to ensure a range of options so the county can respond to different funding amounts.

She said the concepts will be crafted by Allan Avis Architect. The firm will also act as an advisor on the initial analysis.

“Planning and Development [Department] staff will also be involved in identifying and initiating any required planning approvals for each site to ensure the properties are as ‘developmentready’ as possible,” Hall said in her report.

She said that the process will be similar to recent approvals of triplexes in Goderich as an example of “pre-zoning” that Huron County Council directed the department to pursue.

“The process will be led by a subgroup of the Housing Staff Committee and have representation from Social and Property Services, Planning and Development, Economic Development and Treasury,” Hall said. “The work is to be initiated in December, 2021, and a final report will be presented to [council] in mid-2022.”

Hall said the budget impact of $93,000 is within the county’s current budget and can be found by

utilizing unspent salary dollars from the Economic Development Department.

Council approved the recommendation.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 21.

From the Minister’s Study

Take the wait, the journey to heart this holiday

By Student Minister Alex Jebson Blyth and Brussels United Churches I remember the first trip I made up to Huron County, which was early last summer. As far as I can remember, this was my first time coming up to the county (a right shame too, since it really is quite beautiful in these parts). It was an evening meeting with the search committee of the Blyth and Brussels United congregations, which meant I had to try and beat the Toronto rush hour; even during the pandemic it was still a zoo on the highway. I had a couple years of Toronto driving under my belt at this point, so I knew my exits and signs. But there were other signs to watch out for, seeking out the signs and space to merge lanes, and looking for potential signs of bad weather that would affect the travel time.

It was getting out to this part of the province when I started training my eye more closely on the road signs: prepping to be in the correct lane where the highway splits in Kitchener and trying to memorize the names of all the little villages, in hopes that this might be a new home for us. Each sign offered a little bit of hope, even if the journey was on new terrain, and the destination wasn’t fully known.

So, it is with this Advent journey that we find ourselves on this year.

Unsure of the terrain, eagerly looking at all the signs along the way, but ultimately hopeful of the destination we will find ourselves in, promised to us in old and new ways. It is jointly a time of waiting and anticipation, while also a time of journeying, travelling to Bethlehem and however it is that God will break into our lives next.

We may be tempted to rush through this journey, to be a bit heavy on the pedal. Or we might just be tempted to skip the Advent journey altogether. Of course, we know Christmas is coming, with the joys and fears of all the years lived out in a familiar and loving holy day. We are (knock on wood) hopeful of having a more familiar Christmas than last year, so we might be especially tempted to skip the signs and just have Christmas.

But we still need to journey and ponder through Advent nonetheless. We need to, because it is only by taking this journey that we can truly appreciate God’s presence in our lives, and make sense of the signs around us that guide us through this still unfamiliar terrain that is our COVID-19 pandemic experience.

We are at a time much like the congregations of the early church.

We have heard the good news and live out our faith, but the uncertain times and confusing signs can create feelings of being lost or being apart from God. Yet, Advent’s focus on the promises of God and the assurance of a shared destination in God kept them and can keep us assured and faith-filled in these still weird times.

Even with this assurance and promise of God’s presence with us anew, the journey is still full of unfamiliar and sometimes startling signs. When you think of the stories and journeys from our faith narrative you hear this time of year, you might think of a calm Nativity scene, or “tidings of comfort and joy”. Those familiar signs are there, of course, but Advent also peppers in some more stark and eye-

opening themes. Take this passage from the Gospel of Luke, in which Jesus predicts the times to come: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory.” (Luke 21:25-27).

There is some strong imagery here, but it reminds us that the journey in God’s presence is not yet over. But also it offers hope and peace, because of the potential and newness that can come. The journey can provide new insight into how the world ought to be, and

how God’s presence might move you to travel faithfully into this new vision. A call from John the Baptist to be renewed is a sign of hope that we can be transformed and more loving in our ways. A song from a young Mary, on the outskirts of proper society, gives signs and visions of a time where the lowly will be uplifted, and the powers that be held accountable.

We need this journey to remind us of the hope that God offers, because God can break into the most chaotic and quiet times of our life’s journey, in the old familiar backroads and the most confusing of interchanges. God breaks into your life when you’re broken down on the side of the road or broken down in your life by the hardships and losses we experience. God breaks in with alternative routes or

BRUSSELS

United Church

HOPE PEACE JOY

3rd Sunday of Advent Sunday, December 12, 9:30 am we welcome you to worship in person or via YouTube later in the afternoon COVID-19 distancing and masks required

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

Brussels Mennonite Fellowship We’re Back!!!

Worshipping Jesus Together All Are Welcome

shortcuts, being a more confident navigator than your spouse holding the map upside down. God breaks in with a stable and a cross, with an empty tomb and a gift of the Spirit’s presence, and in many more ways; there is hope in this promise and potential of God’s loving presence.

This season also helps us to be more vigilant of the signs we need to follow, and those with whom we are called to share in this journey.

This isn’t necessarily a roadmap to help predict what is to come with exact detail, but rather the faith and grounding to navigate through

them. It also helps us keep one eye on the future destination for us.

Advent prepares us for the way God is with us in the Christmas narrative, but also that we have a future with God in which we will more fully know God’s presence.

Advent keeps us mindful of this journey as well, with whatever twists and turns are to follow.

So, I invite you to take this time of waiting and journeying to heart over the next weeks. While the rest of the world has seemingly already moved high-gear into Christmas, Continued on page 23

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

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

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

Trinity

St. John’s

BLYTH 9:00 AM

BRUSSELS 12 NOON

St. Paul’s Trinity

WINGHAM 10:30 AM

COME WORSHIP WITH US! Join us for our 10:00 am and 7:30 pm services Social distancing and masks required Services are live-streamed and can be found by searching “Blyth Christian Reformed Church”

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

Sundays @ 10 am ­­ Face masks & social distancing in effect 250 Princess St., Brussels • 519­887­6388 • Pastor Ken Gazley

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

Brussels Soup and More 2 is cancelled until further notice.

519-357-5273

Evangelical Missionary Church

3rd Sunday of Advent - “Joy”

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

Service will be held in the sanctuary with COVID-19 protocols in place.

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

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

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

Dec. 12, 10:30 am

Sunday School during Worship

Join us each Sunday for in-house church service at 11 am or on-line later in the afternoon Proof of vaccination will be required for the Christmas Eve Service

BRUSSELS

Pastor Ernest Dow, “Lockdown on Fear: The Lord in Our Midst” (Zeph.3:14ff)

Blyth United Church

Walk Thru: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Drive Thru: 7:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 12 Bring a donation of a grocery gift card or a non-perishable food item for our local food bank

Wingham: Sacred Heart Sunday ~ 9:00 a.m.

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

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

PAGE 22. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

RADAR AUTO PARTS

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021. PAGE 23.

St. Anne’s, St. Michael bands perform together

Making music Musicians in the St. Anne’s Catholic Secondary School and St. Michael Catholic Secondary School bands joined together recently for the first Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board Secondary School concert band collaboration since COVID-19 hit.

(Photo submitted)

Remembering God’s presence Continued from page 21 take some intentional time to be just as committed to the Advent journey. When you see the signs of “city sidewalks, busy sidewalks, full of holiday green”, don’t be so

swept up in the hustle and bustle to lose perspective on the promise and reality of God’s presence with us and with all.

I invite you to look out for the signs of hope that God places in our

lives in the coming weeks. Some of the signs of hope are familiar; we see the seasons of creation continuing on, a promise that though we travel the cold and dark journey of Advent, if we wait long enough, the warmth and brightness returns once again.

Find hope in the unfamiliar road signs and landmarks, the things that seem crazy and scary at first, because God is often at work there. And have hope in following the signs that God places, so that in our discipleship, we may help inspire hope for others in these still-challenging times.

Have hope in God, because God is the substance of our hope. Wait and journey this season for God, because it is in God that we have assured hope. Let us hope together in this in-between time of Advent.

Let’s take a road trip, folks! Thanks be to God. Amen.

On Tuesday, Nov. 30, students from St. Anne’s Catholic Secondary School (Clinton) and St. Michael Catholic Secondary School (Stratford) joined together for the first Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board Secondary School concert band collaboration in over two years. After a year-and-a-half of not being able to play instruments in schools, the ability to not only perform on wind instruments inside but also collaborate with other music students from across the board was a welcome opportunity for these music students.

Under the direction of Mr. Tom Garrick (St. Michael CSS) and Mr. Josh Geddis (St. Anne’s CSS), over 50 students took part in a band workshop that culminated with the recording of two songs to be played at a virtual board meeting in December.

Concert band looks a little different in the COVID-19 school environment. In order to perform safely, students were spaced six feet apart and performed on instruments fit with bell covers while wearing protective eyewear and playing masks.

“It looks a little bit different, but the idea is the same - students coming together and connecting through music. Being in a school band has benefits that extend far beyond just learning an instrument.

Students have the opportunity to learn about commitment, work ethic, inclusivity and acquire

leadership skills that will last a lifetime. There are also many great mental health benefits to being a part of a music ensemble. I think both the students and their teachers really missed being able to gather together and make music over the last little bit. Our schools were a bit quiet during COVID-19. Band is back, and this day was a celebration of that as we begin the work to rebuild our music programs,” says Geddis, who has taught at St. Anne’s CSS for the past 14 years.

After over a year-and-a-half of not playing wind instruments inside, students returned to school and began their instrumental music classes and band rehearsals in outdoor spaces this fall. Both St. Michael CSS and St. Anne’s CSS are now running instrumental music courses indoors, with proper spacing maintained and the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. Students perform with bell covers on their instruments while wearing eye protection and playing masks to keep things safe.

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The Christmas Season is hard if your heart is hurting.

You are not alone.

Blue Christmas is a gentle, contemplative service for anyone who is carrying pain or loss or feeling depressed or anxious during this Christmas season.

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

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Star power While there are few icons as well-known as the jolly old elf, Santa Claus, if anyone could come close it’s likely Olaf from the Frozen series of movies and shorts.

Fortunately, the two of them weren’t competing but working together to bring season’s greetings during the Clinton Santa Claus parade over the weekend. (John Stephenson photo)

The Citizen

Call or email today 519-523-4792 info@northhuron.on.ca

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PAGE 24. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2021.

THE TIME OF OUR LIVES Stories of Huron County in the Post-War Years The post-war years in Huron County have been the times of our lives. David Yates shares stories about a time of dynamic change when Huron County was at the crossroads of an older, rural way of life and a modern, affluent, technologically advanced society. $25.00

The Old Farmer’s 2022 Almanac This 230th edition aims once again to fulfill your expectations with its fun facts and forecasts. Also includes news, novelties and a little nonsense to carry you through another year. $7.99 THE BOY, THE MOLE, THE FOX AND THE HORSE Charlie Mackesy offers inspiration and hope in uncertain times in this beautiful book, following the tale of a curious boy, a greedy mole, a wary fox and a wise horse who find themselves together in sometimes difficult terrain, sharing their greatest fears and biggest discoveries. The shared adventures and important conversations between the four friends are full of life lessons that have connected with readers of all ages. $28.50

THE COMPLETE WILD GAME COOKBOOK Enjoy expert advice on preparation and cooking of game birds and animals – from goose and pheasant to moose, bison and wild boar – as well as recipes for complementary marinades, stocks and sauces. 165 recipes in all. $39.95

UNPLUGGED PLAY Screen-free ideas for creative fun. These unplugged games are designed to stretch the imagination, spark creativity, build strong bodies, and forge deeper connections with family and friends. $17.95

QUACK! MOO! OINK! Bring the barnyard to life with 10 farm animal sounds! Fun facts and sounds on every page for your little farmer. $17.95

LIVES OF GIRLS AND WOMEN The intensely readable, touching, and very funny story of Del Jordan, a young woman who journeys from the carelessness of childhood through an uneasy adolescence in search of love. $20.00

AT KNIT’S END: Meditations for Women who Knit Too Much Humorous and philosophical readings about knitting and crafters. Quotes from famous personalities often trigger the meditations by Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, “The Yarn Harlot”. $16.95

CANADIAN JINGLE BELLS Take a flying tour of Canada with HELLO FARM! Lift-a-Sound Santa Claus and his sled pulled Lift the big flaps! Push the big by beaver in this charming buttons! Listen to the farm animals illustrated children’s book. Travel say HELLO! Perfect for the little from the Yukon and Yellowknife ones. $17.99 to the west coast and all the way east to Newfoundland. $19.95 DANCE OF THE HAPPY SHADES This is the book that earned Alice Munro a devoted readership, revealing the countryside of Southwestern Ontario and its many small sufferings and unanticipated emotions. $20.00

HORSE SHOWING FOR KIDS This one-of-a-kind interactive handbook explains how to do everything from loading a horse in a trailer to catching a judge’s eye.

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I THINK MY GRANDPA MIGHT BE SANTA. Story time is family time. This book is special for every grandchild. A board book which creates strengthens relationships and emotional growth, entertains with imagination and humour, inspires holiday and family traditions. $13.99

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BIRD WATCHING ANSWER BOOK Do birds sleep while in flight? What is the fastest bird? What are feathers made of?

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WHITEWATER COOKS Together again The top of the food chain at a Nelson gathering is the bearer of a Whitewater Cooks dish. A community could be built on such great food and Shelley Adam’s recipes are foundational for elevating our communal experience. $36.95

Stop in and see our great selection of books at...

The Citizen

Visit huroncitizen.ca for more rural living books and local authors.

New titles being added as we build the site.

Mail order or curbside pick up available.

CANADA FOR KIDS In this patriotic celebration of Canada’s superlatives, complete with 300 colour photographs, kids are presented with thousands of unique facts, figures and feats that make the country unique. From inventions to statistics to amazing geography, this book will keep the whole family flipping pages for unique Canadian trivia. $17.95

GRANDPA’S WISH LIST A grandpa has lots of special wishes for his new grandchild. Most of all, he wishes to share moments and make memories together. A wonderful keepsake from grandfather to grandchild. Padded hardcover. $13.99

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792