The Citizen - February 27, 2020

INSIDE THIS WEEK:

MARCH

SPORTS - Pg. 2 Clinton Radars beat Seaforth Centenaires in first round

ART - Pg. 6

BRIDES - Pg. 13

Brussels native receives prestigious art award

‘The Citizen’ presents annual wedding guide

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Volume 36 No. 9

Serving the communities of Blyth and Brussels and northern Huron County

Thursday, February 27, 2020

Crusaders open OMHA semifinal with a win

By Denny Scott The Citizen

On the right foot The Blyth Brussels Atom Rep Crusaders certainly started their Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) semifinal series on the right foot with a 6-1 win over the Mariposa Lightning on Sunday evening in Blyth. The team defeated their neighbours to the north, the Wingham Ironmen, in the

quarterfinals, needing overtime to seal the deal, and then moved on to play Mariposa, a small town southwest of Lindsay. The Crusaders will now travel for games two and three of the series over the weekend, looking to build on their series lead. (John Stephenson photo)

Review recommends Seaforth station

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron County Council has been given a glimpse into the future of its emergency services and some changes are being recommended.

Andrew Greggan from Operational Research in Health (ORH) Ltd. presented his firm’s final report at Huron County Council’s Feb. 19 meeting. The company, which is based in the United Kingdom, reviewed the county’s emergency services as directed by council in 2018.

ORH’s review developed a plan forward for the county based on a 10-year projection from 2019 to 2029. During that time, the company expects annual demand to increase 4.4 per cent over that period, meaning that by the company’s projections, demand should increase just under 54 per cent by 2029.

Greggan assured council that the company’s projections are created

through a sophisticated computer modelling program that has been found to be highly accurate. It was also working with emergency services data provided by the county from 2016 through 2019.

During that time, call volume increased approximately five per cent per year, but with demographic shifts, planned housing development and other factors taken into consideration, the model projected demand growth of 4.4 per cent per year. This is lower than the average, which Greggan said tends to sit around 4.8 per cent per year.

Greggan’s review also investigated ambulance station locations and found that Huron County’s current locations are close to optimal, with a few exceptions.

Bases or ambulance locations in Clinton, Goderich, Wingham, Brussels, Zurich, Bayfield and Exeter were found to be ideally located. However, the ideal location for a post in Ashfield-Colborne-

Wawanosh would be just outside of Lucknow, instead of its current location northwest of Dungannon.

The report also suggested a new ambulance station in Seaforth, replacing the current Tuckersmith base, which sits between Clinton and Seaforth.

In addition, the Bayfield base would have to be expanded to 24 hours, seven days a week to optimize the ORH model projections. This would also align with a request from

the Bayfield Lions Club when the review began for more comprehensive ambulance service in the town.

Greggan also recommended the addition of paramedics and vehicles over the course of the next 10 years.

The additions would equate to just over 300 weekly vehicle hours, meaning just under four around-theclock ambulances on the road.

In the range of 2020-2023, he Continued on page 10

After eliminating the Wingham Ironmen in Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) action, the Blyth Brussels Atom Rep Crusaders have taken the first step towards winning their semifinal series against Mariposa.

The team is in the midst of a fourgame winning streak since initially losing their first game against the Wingham Ironmen in a best-of-five series earlier this month.

On Sunday, the Crusaders posted a convincing 6-1 victory over the Mariposa Lightning after coming back from a 2-1 deficit against the Ironmen on Thursday to win 3-2 in overtime in the Crusaders’ final quarterfinals game.

Going into that final game, the Crusaders led the series between themselves and the Ironmen two games to one after besting Wingham 7-3 on Feb. 15 and 4-3 on Feb. 14 and dropping a game against the Ironmen on Feb. 12 by a score of 43.

The Crusaders earned their way into the quarter final brackets with a 6-2 win in the Western Ontario Athletics Association (WOAA) preliminary ‘E’ contest against the Minto Mad Dogs.

The OMHA run marks the end of a very successful season for the squad which posted an impressive record of 33 wins, eight losses and two ties.

The team performed well in every tournament it entered, posting a 3-1 record in the Ryan O’Reilly Youth Challenge in November of last year and a 2-2 record in the Wingham Regional Silver Stick which ended in December. The squad also went undefeated in the Greater Fort Erie Winter Challenge earlier this year by posting five straight wins, most of which were by a margin of at least six goals.

The squad will continue to pursue OMHA greatness this weekend with two road games against Mariposa (who play in nearby Little Britain, southwest of Lindsay) on Feb. 29 and March 1. Both games are set to start at 1:30 p.m.

The series then returns to the Crusaders’ home turf for two games on March 6 in Brussels at 7 p.m. and March 7 in Blyth at 1 p.m. before returning to Little Britain, if necessary, on March 8.

Trailer park may switch to lots

By Denny Scott The Citizen North Huron Council may opt to turn the Wingham Trailer Park into a new kind of medium-density residential development, depending on council’s final decision for the party.

As part of a two-part presentation

during council’s Feb. 18 meeting, North Huron staff recommended the property be turned into residential lots, rather than remain a trailer park.

Director of Recreation and Community Services Vicky Luttenberger, in a report to council, suggested council should authorize staff to undertake site condition

assessments with an upset limit of $35,000 to evaluate the land for residential purposes.

Luttenberger also suggested notifying the Wingham Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion and informing representatives that the municipality is considering the option. The Wingham Legion Continued on page 3

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Despite Cents’ push, Radars emerge victorious

Just short Despite this goal scored by Josh Gaynor early in the Seaforth Centenaires’ Friday night game against the Clinton Radars in Clinton, it would be the home-team Radars who would prevail with a 3-2 victory, earning them a three-games-to-two advantage going into Saturday. They would win on Saturday and move to the second round of the playoffs, sending the Centenaires home for the season. (John Stephenson photo)

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Clinton Radars eliminated the Seaforth Centenaires from the

postseason over the weekend, winning back-to-back games in Clinton and Seaforth.

On Saturday, the Radars earned a 6-2 victory over the Cents in

Seaforth, breaking the pattern of the home team being victorious in previous postseason matchups. With that win, the Radars won the best-ofseven series four games to two.

Paramedics needed says report Continued from page 1 recommended the addition of one vehicle and the same for the period between 2023 and 2026. From 2026 to 2029 he recommended two additional vehicles added to the fleet.

During 2020 to 2023, Greggan recommended increasing resources in Goderich between 8:30 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. every day. He also suggested finding some land for the new Seaforth ambulance station during that time.

From 2023 to 2026, Greggan said the new Seaforth three-bay station should open and the Tuckersmith station should close.

During that time he also suggested increasing Clinton resources between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. while also expanding either Bayfield or Zurich services to alleviate vehicle capacity issues.

Long-term goals between 2026 and 2029 would include increasing Exeter resources between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and Wingham resources between noon and midnight every day. Greggan also suggested the relocation of the Ashfield-ColborneWawanosh station to the new development, The Bluffs, during that period, saying demand should increase substantially with the planned expansion there.

He also said the Exeter administrative vehicle should be relocated to Zurich during that time and that ambulances deployed to Brussels should begin coming from Seaforth and not Wingham or that a full ambulance base should be built in Brussels.

Greggan was questioned on this shift with councillors concerned that it was significantly farther from Seaforth to Brussels than to Brussels from Wingham. He agreed that it’s slightly farther away, but that the

models didn’t show a substantial shift in care and that it would help the overall picture in Huron County.

Councillor Bob Fisher also asked Greggan if he had factored potential hospital closures into his model and he said he had. Fisher mentioned the recent reduction in service at the Clinton hospital and wondered aloud if models would change if that hospital, or any other hospital in Huron County for that matter, would close.

Greggan said they had run simulations with closed hospitals and the figures weren’t affected substantially, so the

Seaforth started strong on Saturday night, earning the first goal of the game with Brady Wiffen connecting with Calvin Penney to put the Cents up by one. Cullen Mercer of the Radars responded with a goal assisted by Sean Consitt and Max Campbell.

In the second, the Radars built a lead with goals by Campbell, assisted by Steven Shipley, and Nathan Ansell, assisted by Ray Huether.

Campbell scored his second goal of the game in the third period, assisted by Mercer and Consitt, before Seaforth’s Nick Jung struck back, assisted by Rob Vanwynsberghe and Liam Melady.

Campbell then scored a goal on a penalty shot for the Radars, earning his hat trick, before Mercer had the last word, putting the Radars up 6-3.

Seaforth was assessed 12 penalty minutes over seven calls, as well as incurring the resultant penalty shot.

The Radars served six penalty minutes on three infractions.

Greg Dodds earned the win in net for the Radars, stopping 28 of 30 shots, while Jesse Raymond stopped 17 of 22 shots while in net for the Cents.

Previously, the Radars edged out

recommendations would stand up to a hospital closure if that were to happen in the future.

There were also questions about union agreements and potential station moves and shift changes.

Greggan said the model can’t take such factors into account, but that would be up to union negotiations and that the model was based on the best case scenario.

Chief Administrative Officer Meighan Wark suggested that council receive Greggan’s report and that staff could report back to council on its findings and council agreed.

the Centenaires 3-2 in Clinton on Friday, Feb. 21.

Seaforth once again started strong, scoring the only goal in the first period. Josh Gaynor netted the marker with Liam Melady and Craig Dalrymple assisting.

The Radars responded in the second with a goal by Jamie Huber assisted by Derek Elliott and Ray Huether.

Stephen Sanza put the Radars up by one at the start of the third with assists going to Shipley and Campbell before Seaforth’s Hayden Broomhead scored, assisted by Reuben Smith and Vanwynsberghe.

Elliott netted the game-winning goal for the Radars assisted by Mercer and Ryan Murphy.

The Cents served five penalties for a total of 16 minutes and one game misconduct while the Radars were assessed three penalties totalling six minutes.

Dodds earned the win for the Radars, stopping 22 of 24 shots while Alex Hutcheson was in net for the Cents, stopping 26 of 29 shots.

With some series still outstanding, the match-ups for the next round of playoff, including the naming of the Radars next competition, were unavailable as of press time.

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Keeping momentum Every teachers’ union in Ontario took to the streets on Friday to protest cuts by the provincial government, including large demonstrations all over the province and even in Blyth, home to the office of Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

on our 2020 phone book (with credit) and a special North Huron Publishing prize package.

Submit your digital photo to: Citizen Phone Book Cover at: info@northhuron.on.ca Deadline is February 28, 2020

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 3.

Cottrills eliminated in quarterfinals in Wingham

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Ontario Mixed Doubles Tour Championship, held in Wingham over the weekend, has been hailed as a success by organizers Shawn and Katie Cottrill.

Despite being the reigning Ontario Mixed Doubles Champions, Team Cottrill was eliminated in the quarterfinals, falling to eventual champions Clancy Grandy and Patrick Janssen of Pickering.

“I think it went really well,” she said in an interview with The Citizen. “We had a lot of people out to watch on Saturday and had great participation from the teams. The ice conditions were great as well.”

The event brought competitors from across the world, including Dorottya Palancsa and Zsolt Kiss, the runners-up for the tournament, who travelled from Budapest, Hungary. Other competitors came from across Canada and from as far away as Beijing, China.

Grandy and Janssen bested Palancsa and Kiss 10-2 in the finals.

On their way to the championship, the Pickering-based team bested Catherine and Chris Liscumb from Ilderton by a score of 11-4 and the Cottrills in the playoffs 11-3. During

the qualifying round, they bested Jessica Shipmaker and Mike Aprile from Newmarket by a score of 6-4, edged out Kira Brunton and Brett Lyon-Hatcher from Ottawa 7-6 and were defeated by Suyuan Fan and Jiawen Nan from China 8-6 in their last qualifying round match.

Cottrill congratulated the winners and all the competitors and says she hopes the event continues to be held in Wingham, but says that’s up to the club and its representatives, who are set to meet and discuss the event.

“Hopefully we can continue to host it,” she said. “I think the club did well, but they have to do a round-up meeting to look at that.”

As for the future of Team Cottrill, the couple is currently in second place in Ontario approaching the provincial championships this weekend in Brockville.

Cottrill said the top four teams have a bye, so she and Shawn didn’t have to play in recent regional competitions. Team Cottrill plays a junior team from Toronto in their first draw, Cottrill said.

Watch The Citizen for updates on the competition and Team Cottrill’s quest to defend their 2019 provincial title.

Recent circulation figures show

The Citizen

Bringing it home Shawn and Katie Cottrill, the reigning Ontario Mixed Doubles Champions, brought the firstever Ontario Mixed Doubles Tour Championship to their home club in Wingham over the weekend, marking a memorable moment for both the team and the club. The Belgrave couple would be eliminated in the quarterfinals, but said the tournament was a great success and they hope it will return to the Wingham Golf and Curling Club. (John Stephenson photo)

Stacked townhouses an option Continued from page 1 currently operates the municipallyowned trailer park.

The recommendations came after staff had been investigating the property for months in the wake of a one-year extension granted to the Wingham Legion to continue to operate the site.

Huron County Senior Planner Denise Van Amersfoort consulted on the project and suggested several different options, but recommended avoiding developing the property as single, detached units due to limited space.

Van Amersfoort explained that, of the approximate 2.8-acre property, 2.5 acres were developable.

She provided the history of the site, then suggested that, due to the fact that rail work was done on the property, a two-stage environmental assess-ment would likely be necessary.

She suggested stacked townhouses as an option for the property, which would be a first in Huron County.

The townhouses are either ground level or first floor, and each unit would have either a patio or balcony.

By having them stacked, Van Amersfoort explained, there wouldn’t be public spaces that are a problem for apartment buildings, like hallways. Each unit has its own entrance.

Originally, council was concerned about being able to develop the property as the sanitary line may have run right through the developable land. It turns out, as Luttenberger explained, that the sanitary sewer line runs under an

easement between the Royal Canadian Legion Branch and the property.

Councillor Chris Palmer asked if the municipality would have to develop the site or if the municipality could sell it with a recommended development plan, and Van Amersfoort said that was

possible, pointing to other developments in Huron County that had followed development plans set forward by municipalities when selling land.

Staff received both reports and directed staff to proceed with site assessment plans suggested by Luttenberger.

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What a compassionate, gracious arrangement!

(Susannah Spurgeon, “Words of Cheer and Comfort for Sick and Sorrowful Souls!” 1898) “My times are in Your hand!” Psalm 31:15 Why then, need I worry or tremble? That great, loving, powerful hand keeps all the events of my life sealed and secure within its almighty clasp! Only He, my Maker and my Master, can permit them to be revealed to me as His will for me. What a compassionate, gracious arrangement! How eminently fitted to fulfill that sweet promise of His Word, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You!” If we fully believed this, we would be absolutely devoid of the worry which corrodes and chafes the daily life of so many professing Christians.

“My times.” Not one or two important epochs of my history only—but everything that concerns me: joys that I had not expected, sorrows that must have crushed me, if they could have been anticipated, sufferings which might have terrified me by their grimness, had I looked upon them, surprises which infinite love had prepared me, services of which I could not have imagined myself capable— all these lay in that mighty hand, as the purposes of God’s eternal will for me.

But, as they have developed gradually and silently—how great has been the love which appeared enwrapping and enfolding each one!

Has not the grief been measured—while the gladness has far more abounded?

Have not the comforts and consolations—exceeded the crosses and afflictions?

Have not all things been so arranged, and ordered, and undertaken, and worked out on our behalf—that we can but marvel at the goodness and wisdom of God, in meting out from that dear hand of His, all the “times” that have passed over us?

You agree with me in all this, do you not, dear reader? Then I beg you to apply it to your present circumstances, however dark or difficult they may be. They have come directly from your Father’s hand to you, and they are His dear will for you!

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PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Editorials & Opinions

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

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T-t-t-t-tap the app Maybe not as catchy as the perennial favourite Canadian drinking game urging people to “rrrrroll up the rim”, but even the iconic Tim Hortons hasn’t escaped consumer fickleness. In an effort to modernize while bolstering sagging market share, Tim’s has gone digital.

The goal of encouraging customers to bring their own reusable cup should appeal to environmentalists, especially with Tim Hortons giving away 1.8 million cups on March 10 to kick off Roll Up The Rim season.

But then this is where things get overly complicated. For the first two weeks, you get one play if you purchase a coffee in a paper cup (by rolling up the rim, the same as always) and you can get an extra digital “roll” if you are a Tim’s Rewards registered member, and you get three digital plays on the app if you bring in a reusable cup. For the last two weeks of the promotion, there will only be digital “rolls” available.

Someone should remind Tim Hortons that sometimes less is more.

The original game was brilliant in its simplicity. Roll Up The Rim and either win a coffee or donut or not. (Nobody really expected to win that car.) Tim’s has taken a noble aim to encourage customers to bring their own cup and generate less waste, but overthought it to the point that the average customer will need an app to keep track of this app’s rules. – DS

A blockade and a hard place With Teck Resources officially withdrawing its application to build a $20-billion oilsands mine, some might say Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has had an explosive decision taken out of his hands. Others, however, see Trudeau’s fingerprints all over the decision to kill the project, either through inaction or by coddling nationwide blockades protesting the Coastal GasLink pipeline, which would scare any energy developer.

When the pipeline standstill began, it was hard to see a move Trudeau could make without infuriating someone. If he were too harsh on the protestors, he’d draw the ire of Indigenous communities and their many sympathizers, but if he gave too much, he’d further alienate western Canada and its oil-dependent economy, boosting calls for separation.

Now, with Teck pulling up stakes, Albertans are back to calling for separation and politicians are piling on. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney blames Trudeau and says a “militant minority” led to the decision. This militant minority must include the dozens of Nobel Prize winners, including Huron County’s Alice Munro, who all co-authored a letter to The Guardian asking Trudeau to stop the mine. The decision came as Trudeau began to dig his heels in on pipeline protests, calling for an end to the blockades with meetings with Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs around the corner. None of that matters now. Trudeau has fed into the narrative of the job-killing, Alberta-hating Liberal Prime Minister.

Trudeau was getting heat from both sides. Climate change concerned those who didn’t want to see the project go ahead at all, while Albertans thought Trudeau was dragging his heels on a project they wanted in place yesterday. Perhaps some introspection is needed and those out for Trudeau’s blood should give more thought to why there has been great opposition. Whether it’s our current climate emergency, Indigenous land rights or a shift in the economy, it’s hard to lay blame at the feet of one man for a perfect storm of so many worldwide hot button issues. – SL

Hard to see the point In unveiling the new Ontario licence plates earlier this month, the Conservative provincial government, represented by Huron-Bruce’s own MPP and Ontario Minister of Government and Consumer Services Lisa Thompson, made three significant errors. The first of which was to not conduct the research ensuring the plates were usable before unveiling them. Shortly after the blue plates were launched an Ontario police officer pointed out they were illegible at night to the human eye.

Debacles like this seem to be the highlight of this government’s term.

Between walking back change after change when met with resistance to other errors like the unnecessary carbon tax stickers placed at gas stations, which also weren’t made properly the first time, this government continues to waste money fixing mistakes it has made instead of doing the job right in the first place. That’s only made worse by the second mistake: clinging to a narrative that said the plates weren’t flawed.

Thompson and Doug Ford’s government needed to own up to the mistake, even if that meant blaming the manufacturer. Instead, Thompson saying the plates were functional was played on a loop before finally admitting they were poorly made and offering replacements.

The last mistake was making the issue a partisan one. Thompson, in initially denying the problems with the plates, kept referring to the former plates as “Liberal”. While there’s no denying that these new plates are Conservative blue, there is no need to make this a partisan issue. If the plates need to be redesigned, that’s fine, but if it was simply done to differentiate this government from the last, it’s a waste of taxpayer dollars, now made worse by the problems with them. – JDS

Looking Back Through the Years February 28, 1963 At the annual father-son banquet for the 1st Brussels Scout Troop and Cub Pack, several members were handed the highest Scout honour, Queen Scout badges, for their hard work and dedication.

John Watson, David Krauter and Rae Smith all received the badges, presented by Scoutmaster Cecil McFadden.

The local Brownies and Girl Guides also held a special awards ceremony and a number of members were honoured. Linda Lowe, Nancy Pearson, Daphne McWhirter, Cherlyn McCutcheon, Karen Mutter, Cathy McArter, Joan Elliott, Judy Work, Nancy Adams, Pauline McCutcheon, Debra Callander, Maureen Hanna and Gail McDonald all received Golden Bars that night.

March 3, 1971 The Blyth Novice hockey team won the Western Ontario “E” championship thanks to a final series win over their opponents from Tiverton. They won the game by a score of 2-0 and also won the series two games to none.

Several promising young hockey players connected to make the win happen.

In the opening frame, it was Steve Howson scoring on a pass from Ken Stewart to open the scoring. Ronnie Young would score the team’s second goal thanks to an assist from Jeff Watson.

Steven Sparling played a solid game in net for the team, stopping every shot he faced, including three Tiverton breakaways in the third period alone.

The team was now set to advance through the playoffs, playing the winner of a series between Teeswater and Southampton.

Hullett Township Council learned

that snow removal costs for the winter would be almost double what they had been the previous year, rising from $10,000 to $20,000.

Darlene Coultes, a 13-year-old from Belgrave, won the annual Huron County public speaking competition sponsored by the Ontario Public School Trustee Association and Ontario Hydro.

Approximately 300 were in attendance for the competition in Clinton to hear Coultes speak on the problems of being short.

She would go on to win the Zone 4 competition in Glencoe, earning her a spot in the provincial competition, which would be held in Toronto at the King Edward Sheraton Hotel on March 22.

March 4, 2010 A fire ripped through the Blyth Corner Café, causing some damage, however, it was the quick response of the Fire Department of North Huron that saved the entire building from burning. The firefighters also saved other buildings on the block.

Fire Chief John Black said the department was on the scene of the fire within two minutes of receiving the call.

North Huron Councillor Brock Vodden wrote into The Citizen with news that a small group of Blyth residents was being formed to craft a strategy to prevent or delay the closure of Blyth Public School.

“We might be called ‘the faint hope group’ but the issue is so important we feel that we must try,” Vodden said in his letter.

Former owners of The Blyth Saga, a gift shop across from Memorial Hall, Floyd and Liz Herman, had returned to Blyth.

Floyd began working as the music director at Blyth United Church and said he and his wife were enjoying

their time back in the village.

Area churches were in the midst of planning for the annual World Day of Prayer. In 2010, it was the women of Cameroon who had penned the service which would be read in churches all over the world.

Blyth-area native Mark Nonkes had returned to Namibia to continue his work with the Namibian Legal Assistance Centre, an organization that worked to keep Namibians informed on their legal rights.

In addition to his work with the organization, Nonkes had also sponsored a local cycling team in his spare time.

February 28, 2019 At North Huron Council’s Feb. 19 meeting, council approved the purchase of two parcels of land at the north end of Blyth as the new location of the village’s fire hall and public works building.

Reeve Bernie Bailey cited the concerns of residents as a major factor in the decision to back off of tearing up one of the village’s baseball diamonds for the building.

Bailey also thanked former North Huron Councillor Brock Vodden for presenting a petition that spoke against the Gypsy Lane location for the fire hall and public works shed.

Memorial Hall in Blyth was the site for the official launch of the revived Rutabaga Festival. It included arts and crafts, a questionand-answer period and a musical performance by Alex Blair. The event brought approximately 100 people to the hall in advance of the actual festival, which would be held in October.

Studio 410, run by Paige and Devan Ballagh, produced Shrek the Musical Junior at Memorial Hall in Blyth, a youth-driven production aimed at other youths.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 5.

Other Views

We created the one per cent

T

he other day, a friend and I were agreeing that the fact that a tiny group of the very rich control so much of the wealth was a big problem – we only disagreed how this problem was created in the first place.

First of all, some facts. According to the Brookings Institute, the top one per cent of the richest people in the U.S. controls $25 trillion – more than the bottom 80 per cent of the population. By comparison, Canada has a lower percentage of people with wealth below $10,000 and a higher percentage with more than $100,000. Still, in Canada, according to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 90 families own more than the combined population of Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.

Of course, we should admit that many of us who don’t think of ourselves as wealthy, are richer than we think on world-wide terms.

According to Credit Suisse’s calculations, 1.59 million Canadians are part of the world’s top one per cent of wealth holders.

My friend, with some validity, argued that the very rich rigged the rules to get to where they are and to stay there. I argued that we ordinary people made these people as wealthy as they are. In many cases, from the Walton family behind Walmart (estimated family worth of $130.5 billion), to Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon and worth an estimated $130.1 billion, ordinary people voted with their dollars to make these people rich. Often, other businesses were destroyed when people flocked to the new guy on the block, abandoning the people and businesses that had served them for years.

An article in the current issue of Walrus entitled “The End of Grocery Shopping” demonstrates the long-running concentration of wealth. Early in the 20th century, a shopper

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk would go out to the grocery store for canned and dry goods, then to the butcher for meat, the bakery for bread and the greengrocer for fruits and vegetables. But creative entrepreneurs were already rethinking things.

As far back as 1883 in Cincinnati, Bernard Kroger began experimenting by offering baked goods in his grocery store. Shoppers liked the convenience and by 1902 Kroger expanded to 40 stores and started his own bakery so he could sell bread at cost, undercutting competition. That’s at least 40 grocery store owners who were put out of business, not to mention bakers and butchers, with the wealth concentrated in one family’s hands.

In the beginning, a shopper handed her list to the grocer and he filled her order from goods kept in a back room. But someone had the idea of putting the stock on shelves in the store and letting shoppers choose for themselves. This not only speeded the process for the shopper but cut labour costs. When the first Loblaws Groceterias opened In 1919 they used this strategy. Shoppers rewarded these companies and so things got bigger. Each change was greeted with enthusiasm by shoppers. The same human instinct that made entrepreneurs want to make money drove consumers to try to save money.

When I was growing up, even into the 1970s when I first began working, the main

streets of local towns and villages were lined with stores offering everything we needed for our homes. The business owners paid taxes and were community leaders. They grumbled about their main threat, people who shopped for clothes, shoes and even furniture from the Eaton’s and Simpson-Sears catalogues. Today, the main street stores and merchants are gone.

Even Eaton’s, Simpsons and Sears are no more. The coming of Walmart and other international chain stores has shifted profits from people within the community to foreign bank accounts.

Canadian companies like Loblaws and Sobeys fear Walmart, which has added groceries to its one-stop variety. Yet Walmart fears Amazon which is revolutionizing retailing. People like you and I are rushing to buy online, with even online grocery shopping growing rapidly. As Amazon tries to dominate grocery shopping as well, shoppers are concentrating wealth in the hands of Bezos.

Certainly, the ultra-rich want to pay less tax – just like the rest of us who elect tax-slashing governments. Certainly they have the clout to get favourable tax laws, etc. Progressives from people like my friend to U.S. Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders to the NDP argue these companies must be taxed more heavily to redistribute wealth and help the downtrodden.

The difficulty is we’re creating new online giants like Amazon, Facebook, Google and Netflix that don’t need to locate within the borders of a country, so they can shift their headquarters to a friendly taxhaven to avoid taxes.

We don’t think of the ramifications of our buying choices. We simply want the cheapest, the most variety, the most exciting goods. In getting what we want, we’ve created the superwealthy one per cent.

‘Hello out there, we’re on the air’

S

ing it with me folks: “Hello out there, we’re on the air, it’s ‘Hockey Night’ tonight, tension grows, the whistle blows and the puck goes down the ice.”

Stompin’ Tom Connors captured the essence of the good old hockey game in his tune “The Hockey Song” and the good old hockey game truly is the best game you can name in my humble opinion (and that has very little to do with the fact that he clearly says, “The Canadiens win” in the song).

It seems, however, that, as a society, we’re forgetting about it, especially when it comes to local hockey action.

We have a bevy of local hockey teams tackling postseason opponents and it’s important we support them to make sure that we don’t end up losing them.

When I was a teenager (and boy do those years seem to be nearly in antiquity now) I remember that local arenas were always filled when the junior and senior teams played. The old Clinton barn, despite being the coldest arena in Huron County in my opinion, was filled every time the Radars played, to the point that I’d often stand at ice level (the coldest part of the arena) behind the visiting team’s goal just to catch the action.

The same could be said of the old Goderich Memorial Arena when the Pirates played or the Seaforth and District Community Centre when the Centenaires took to the ice.

Two of those teams have folded, though the Cents have since been reborn, and are now giving the Clinton Radars, one of the top teams in the league, a run for their money in the first round of the playoffs.

Likewise, the Wingham Ironmen just swept their first-round series and there are a lot of empty seats in the Wingham arena (though that might have to do with the fact that you have to walk all the way to Tim Hortons to warm up with a hot chocolate).

Denny Scott Denny’s Den It’s a little heartbreaking to go to these games and cover them and see so many empty seats in the arenas.

As a society, we seem to be moving away from Canada’s beautiful game and it’s not just at the senior and junior levels. Declining hockey numbers have led to the amalgamation of hockey centres, so much so that when we write up the weekly reports about how teams are doing, we use more acronyms than centre names.

Locally, we have the mouthful that is the Bayfield, Clinton, Hensall (BCH) Ice Dogs, the Huron Heat (which is a girls league for the entire county), the Huron-Bruce Blizzard (Lucknow and Ripley) and of course the Blyth Brussels Crusaders just to name a few. Going further afield, we have organizations like the Belmont, Ayr and Dorchester (BAD) Blaze and the South Huron Sabres.

It makes an unfortunate kind of sense that hockey numbers are declining. With corporations taking over the work of family, both in the agricultural and commercial divisions, there are fewer young families moving into communities and onto farms, meaning less players. It’s also becoming increasingly expensive for families to be involved in hockey, which is another stumbling block to keeping hockey numbers high.

As much as I’d like to, I can’t offer a solution to any of that. It’s up to people beyond me to attract young families. Hockey

prices continue to rise along with insurance and ice rental costs, so there’s little we can do to fix that.

However, that doesn’t mean we should give up on the great game. As a matter of fact I say we should double down.

I’ve written this before, but hockey is more than the sum of its parts. Sure, it can be violent, but it’s one of the most exciting games to play and watch in rural Ontario.

I’m not looking to belittle other activities, but few games have the near-non-stop action hockey offers, and I speak from experience.

Ringette is fine, but as someone who was a timekeeper for that sport for years, I can tell you that the rules do tend to slow the game down. Broomball… well let’s just say I’ve never felt the appeal and that comes after covering it for years for The Citizen.

Even summer sports like soccer, which I love, don't offer the same kind of emotions as hockey.

I think that’s because hockey offers something for every sense, even for people watching.

There’s that cold air that bites your lungs when you step into the arena or onto the ice.

There’s the speed of the game, which can have people turning their heads left and right to watch so often it could be considered exercise.

There’s the sound of pucks bouncing off posts that draw one of two near-universal reactions from the crowd. Heck, there’s even a taste to the air when you’re in the arena and on the ice (or, if you’re like me, the taste of a good poutine at certain arenas).

It’s like nothing else in the world and we need to support it. So get out and watch your local junior and senior teams. Take in your nieces and nephews on the ice. Make sure your kids know that hockey is an option, even if it means selling some fundraising to make it happen. Keep hockey alive.

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

This is no vacuum

L

ast week’s Huron East Council budget deliberations served as a stark reminder that decisions made in one year can affect the municipality for years to come.

The discussion wasn’t about Huron East specifically, but about Huron County and council’s decisions in the 1990s that led to several years of double-digit tax increases. The council of the day approved several budgets that inadequately funded the county, which resulted in a number of “make good” years with tax rate increases of over 20 per cent to undo the damage done by previous budgets.

This topic arises frequently around council tables in Huron County as a bit of a warning.

“Remember when Huron County Council undercut itself and then had to slam ratepayers with double-digit tax increases?” It’s the cautionary tale reminding councillors that a political decision can have repercussions for years down the road. It’s also a reminder that following years’ budgets don’t start at zero.

Every special interest group that’s placated, every impulsive decision and every emotional concession could haunt councillors and their successors. Partisan decisions, whether it’s Conservatives and Liberals, Republicans and Democrats or even Huron County councillors favouring their municipalities and municipal councillors blindly supporting their wards, could impede decision-makers from choosing wisely and we’ll all pay for years to come.

Think of the devastating cuts made by former Premier Mike Harris and his “Common Sense Revolution” or the $1 billion flushed down the toilet by former Premiers Dalton McGuinty and Kathleen Wynne through the gas plants scandal. These aren’t hockey games that begin scoreless and fresh the next day after a devastating loss. Real people like you and me are left to pick up the pieces in the wake of disasterous decisions like these.

As Conservatives throughout North America like Donald Trump and Doug Ford dismantle environmental regulations, for example, we are leaving behind the ultimate cheque to be cashed by future generations.

Even locally we can’t escape these concerns.

Crumbling infrastructure, funding erosion and fed-up ratepayers are coming together to form a perfect storm making it nearly impossible for municipal councils to balance their books and provide residents with the services they need.

This is all happening while councils are trying to make decisions to increase their tax base by making their communities more attractive to potential residents and investors.

It’s a tough balance to strike. In Huron East, you have investments in the former Brussels Public School and the Brussels Medical Dental Building, both of which are now paying off though costly at the time. Meanwhile, other area municipalities have tried and failed to do something big and are now left with white elephant money pits that will cost residents a fortune until they’re finally demolished.

With the small tax base in communities like those in Huron County, expensive decisions have an outsized budget impact. It’s easy to see how one bad decision could saddle a small number of ratepayers with mountainous debt for decades. This is why ratepayers need responsible spending from their councillors.

So whether it’s nonsensical economic development projects or farcical multimillion-dollar aquatic complexes, our money needs to be spent intelligently, lest we dig a hole and can’t find our way out.

These aren’t just bad decisions. We’re building a community brick by brick and we can’t start over if we don’t like what we see.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

‘Sloppy’ recycling plaguing Brussels says Coun. Lowe

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Life-saving work Tyler Deitner, left, and Jason VanDerMeer, centre, both Huron East firefighters from the Brussels station, were presented with the Paramedic Paul Patterson Award for Life Saving by the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund through its Order of the Good Samaritan Awards. Both men were instrumental in life-saving efforts dating back to an incident in February, 2018 and while the patient ultimately didn’t survive, Deitner and VanDerMeer were able to keep the patient alive long enough for the family to have peace and closure. Patrick Armstrong, right, founder of the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund, made the presentation. (Photo submitted)

At Huron East Council’s Feb. 18 meeting, Councillor John Lowe relayed the concerns of some community members with what he said were some sloppy practices on recycling day in the village.

Lowe said he had been contacted by a number of residents about the issue, which he then went out and investigated. After doing some driving around on recycling day, Lowe found numerous recyclables left behind in bins or by the roadside.

In a follow-up e-mail to The Citizen, Lowe said he has connected with over a dozen properties, both private homes and businesses, who are concerned about items being left behind for no official reason. He also followed up with Waste Management, the village’s garbage collector, about the issue and after

discussing it, representatives will be discussing the issue with drivers, asking them to be more tidy in Brussels, Lowe said.

Lowe has said that if Brussels residents are unsatisfied with their garbage and/or recycling pick-up or they have been missed entirely they should contact Waste Management’s office in Mount Forest at 1-888-7303344.

At the Branch

Branch hosts local business, Cadet events

By Jo-Ann McDonald The week at the Brussels Legion Branch began with the normal Cadet meeting. They were preparing for an outdoors weekend and were busy organizing and packing up the necessary gear. They went away last weekend and although it started out cold on Saturday morning, it improved over the weekend to more favourable temperatures.

On Thursday, the Brussels Agromart held a meeting for about 27 attendees. They enjoyed a soup and cold meat and bun lunch.

Working for the Branch were Comrades Sandra Brown and Kathy Burkholder.

The Thursday night darts had 17 darters taking aim at the boards. The first-place team was Roger McHardy and Linda Bird. The second-place team was Ken Verbeek and Rhonda Davis. High shots were made by Roger hitting 125, Ken hitting 119 and Sharon Robbins 114.

The “skunks” were out on the cold evening with three teams being skunked. Team One was Lisa Glanville and Marlene Rutledge, Team Two was Jim Brown and Lynda Davis and Team Three was Sharon Robbins, Kathy Burkholder and Sandra Brown.

The Friday night Catch the Ace draw had a nice crowd on hand as

Brussels native wins international prize A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231 What a lovely day. A look out the window brings a wee smile, a little humming and a bit of a spring in the step, all brought to you by sunshine.

Oh yes, I know to enjoy the moment, it will be gone soon. I like winter and retirement means driving by choice, not schedules, so everchanging winter days are just fine here.

Funerals, memorials and celebrations of life are part of our circle of life and the event signals the end of one thing and the beginning of another. Faith, history and experience all contribute to our view of death. We each handle life in our own way and death and its effects are part of that.

The closer someone is to you, the more profound the effect of their death. Dealing with these effects

take time and the reality can be cruel. Life goes on, details of life change and we grow into the new situation.

Grief is yours alone and you deal with it in the best way you can.

Beware of the moments of grief and be kind and respectful to yourself and others as life moves along without the presence of the one you loved.

Audrey Cardiff is smiling for a new reason this month. Daughter Janet and partner George B. Miller have been recognized for their artistic talents once again. Their art display for the City of Duisburg and the Rhineland Regional Council and the Stiftung Museum won the prestigious Wilhelm Lehmbruck Prize. So a worldwide prize goes to our Brussels girl and the Vegreville, Alberta fellow. Wow. The press release says “the prize which is one of the most prestigious accolades for sculpture worldwide, honours Janet and George for their life’s work, which has opened new dimensions in sculpture in the 20th and 21st centuries”. That says it all. Well done, Janet. Jack too is smiling and shaking his head.

Take care of yourself.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

the excitement grows along with the jackpot. The lucky weekly winner was Linda Walker, winning $289.

She chose the envelope number 33 and found the 10 of hearts. The estimated jackpot for next week will be around $4,700. Get your tickets from McDonald Lumber, Brussels Pharmacy, Brussels Bulk and Bargains, Jam Jar until 2 p.m. on Fridays. They are available at the Brussels Variety until 6 p.m. and at the Branch until 7 p.m. The draw will be at 7:15 p.m. every Friday night until the Ace is found.

The Ontario Command is pleased to announce a new program for seniors. It is a literary contest for seniors through the local Branches open to any senior in the community.

Seniors are a wealth of knowledge and experience from their journey through life and undoubtably have stories to tell. The contest is for those aged 55 and older and there are four categories: poems, short stories, essays and memoirs (biographies or a collection of memories).

Flex your minds and creative muscles, use your imaginations or tickle our funny bones and share your talent. Prizes will be awarded in June during seniors’ month. Call the Branch for more information or drop in and speak with Sandra Monday to Thursday night from 4-6 p.m.

Sunday afternoon was a leadership and development seminar held at the Branch. All members of the executive were in attendance. It was led by District Leadership and Development Comrade Patty Sargeant Gibson. Assisting her were Zone Commander Dennis Schmidt and Deputy-Zone Commander Jon Corbett. The seminar covered many aspects of Legion, including the system of governance, books and manuals, succession planning, volunteers, setting standards and solving internal problems. This is all useful information in conducting the business of the Branch, handling situations within the Branch, recruiting volunteers and making everyone feel at home at the Branch.

High on the Brussels Legion list is recruiting new members and making them feel welcome. Membership is key to the success of any organization and the Brussels Legion is looking for new members.

Joining the Legion is a positive way to help your community, to aid our veterans, older and new, to make new friends, and to take pride in honouring your fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers who served their country. Consider joining the Legion today.

The monthly Sunday night dance saw The Classics playing. There was a good crowd enjoying the music.

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner Winning Ticket: Linda Walker $289 Envelope #33 found the 10 of Hearts Estimated jackpot for February 28 draw is $4,700

Brussels Legion Branch 218

Double the Valentine’s Fun on Friday, February 28 with Stubby D and wings Starting at 7:30 p.m.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS COMING EVENTS at the BRUSSELS LEGION for March TUESDAY EVENINGS at 7:00 p.m.

Brussels Army Cadet Corp meets.

————————

THURSDAY EVENINGS at 7:00 p.m.

Brussels Pipe Band meets for practice.

Interested parties are invited to drop in.

————————

THURSDAY EVENINGS at 7:30 p.m.

Blind Mixed Darts Everyone welcome.

————————

FRIDAY EVENINGS at 7:15 p.m.

Catch The Ace Draw Get your tickets.

Food available.

————————

SUNDAY, MARCH 22 Sunday night dance from 7:00 - 11:00 p.m. $12.00 per person.

Light lunch.

Enjoy the music of the Country Versatiles.

————————

TUESDAY, MARCH 24 General meeting at 7:00 p.m.

All Comrades are invited to attend.

————————

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 Karaoke with Stubby D at 8:00 p.m.

Bring your voice, your friends and have a good time.

———————— Look for this ad the last week of the month only.

Auditorium and small meeting room available to rent.

Catering available.

Info and general inquiries 519-887-6562 or 519-887-6570

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 7.

Council to discuss housing shortage in near future

By Denny Scott The Citizen Staffing shortages related to housing shortages continue to be a

problem for industries in and around North Huron according to Reeve Bernie Bailey.

During North Huron Council’s Feb. 18 meeting, Bailey, in response

to questions from Councillor Chris Palmer regarding the North Huron Economic Development Committee, said that factories continue to struggle to find employees, and that

problem would likely soon be compounded.

“Everything we’re working on is a year to two years out,” he said.

“There’s a shortage of 100-plus employees.”

He said some businesses were desperately in need of employees, but without apartments to rent or houses to buy, there was no way for North Huron to accommodate the issue.

Beyond that, with new restaurants and gas stations nearing completion on County Road 86 at the south end of Wingham, Bailey said the problem was about to get worse.

“We’re going to need 100 employees overnight for [those

businesses],” he said. “We need 200 employees.”

Bailey explained that the committee is looking at solutions, including modular homes, trailers and improvements to main street apartments.

He also said he had reached out to the Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) through its Chair David Sparling who said that everything in Blyth seems to be rented.

Council took no action as a result of the discussion, but Bailey did say the issue would be before council at its next meeting, issuing a notice of motion at the end of the meeting to have council further investigate the issue.

Millian wins euchre From Marilyn’s Desk

1 p.m. Come out and enjoy an afternoon of fun and fellowship.

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

Not in my house Bumps, sets, spikes and blocks were on tap on Saturday for the annual Blyth Lions Club snow volleyball tournament, held in honour of the late John Bokhout and Blake Hesselwood, two locals who perished in a house fire in late 2011 in Alberta. (John Stephenson photo)

Rev. Beaumont leads service Greeting and ushering worshippers at Blyth United Church on Sunday, Feb. 23 were Hope Button and Marilyn Craig. Marilyn Scott was organist, Katie Dockstader, choir director and Lavern Clark ran the Power Point.

Rev. Christopher Beaumont, guest speaker, welcomed everyone to church on a beautiful sunny day. He drew everyone’s attention to the announcements printed in the bulletin. He invited the congregation to greet one another.

The first hymn, “Eternal Unchanging”, was followed by the call to worship, which was repeated responsively, followed by the opening prayer said in unison.

Rev. Beaumont asked the congregation how they held things together. Some responses were duct tape, scotch tape, glue and others.

He told us that we are held together by the cross. The cross is like glue.

We give thanks to God who is holding us together.

The children’s hymn, “Come, Let Us Sing”, was sung. The scripture reading was from Matthew 15:1-14.

The choir sang the anthem, “’Til the Storm Passes By.” Rev. Beaumont’s message to the congregation was “Epiphany: Revelation or Preparation?” Next Sunday will be the first Sunday of Lent. We have only six weeks to

cover the life of Jesus. Jesus was born to Mary and Joseph and because the rulers wanted to know more about Jesus, Mary and Joseph were forced to go a different way home.

Epiphany is a making of a revolution. Epiphany is also preparation for the season of Lent.

Jesus tells us to stand up for Him and He will stand up for us. He tells us not to get upset in the event of controversy. Jesus loves us as we are. We need to remember to love the Lord our God. Jesus tells us that

what is in our hearts matters. We are not alone, We live in God’s world.

God is always with us.

The offering was received followed by the offertory response, the offertory prayer, the prayers for the people, silent prayers and the singing of the Lord’s Prayer. The last hymn, “Come, That We Love the Lord”, was followed by the commissioning and the benediction said responsively and the singing of the response, “Sent Forth by God’s Blessing”. Everyone was invited for coffee and fellowship.

Happy birthday to Joann MacDonald who celebrates Feb. 28; Dana Weber, Feb. 29; Brendan Hallahan, March 3 and Barry MacDonald, March 4.

Happy anniversary to John and Sheron Stadelmann who celebrate March 4.

Winners of the Feb. 17 euchre were: first, Marie Millian, 70 and Jewel Plunkett, 82; second, Carol Lahey, 73 and Harold McClinchey, 71; lone hands, Edna McLellan, five and David Caesar, four and share the wealth, Shirley Wood and Virginia Caesar. The next euchre is on Monday, March 2 at the Blyth Legion Hall. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. with cards beginning at

Feeling Dirty?

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

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PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Sports Ironmen jump to early series lead against Bulldogs the second with Freiburger scoring, assisted by Fiegehen and Jerrid Fossold. Fossold then scored a power-play marker assisted by Jacob Traynor and finally Davidson scored for the Bulldogs, assisted by Traynor and Joseph Pringle.

Tolton then earned a power-play marker for the Ironmen, assisted by Rhys Vollmer and Dana Smith.

Fahrer then scored for Wingham, tying the game at three goals a piece.

Chase Meurs assisted the marker.

The Ironmen took the lead in the third thanks to a goal by Donnelly assisted by Stanbury, however Kincardine’s VandenBoorn evened up the game less than 30 seconds later with a marker assisted by Brett Burrows.

Donaldson scored the gamewinning goal in overtime for the Ironmen.

Carson earned the win for the Ironmen, stopping 27 of 27 shots while Andrus stopped 43 of 48 shots for the Bulldogs.

The series started with a 4-1 victory for the Ironmen

in Wingham on Feb. 21.

The first started with Wingham’s Tanner Reid scoring, assisted by Austin McKeachnie within the first minute of the game. The Bulldogs’ Traynor responded with a powerplay marker much later in the period, assisted by Brett Burrows.

After swapping goals for the early game, the Ironmen buckled down, scoring three straight unanswered goals to earn the win.

With five seconds left in the first period, Brady Becker scored, assisted by Tolton and Donaldson.

Fischer scored in the second, assisted by Meurs, as did Logan Tolton, assisted by Becker and Chris Adlys. There were no goals scored in the third period.

Andrus was in net for the Bulldogs, stopping 29 of 33 shots while Carson saved 21 of 22 shots to earn the win for the Ironmen.

If necessary, three more games are scheduled for this weekend: Feb 28 in Wingham at 8 p.m., Feb. 29 in Kincardine at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 in Wingham at 3 p.m.

Crashing the net With a 4-1 win on Friday night, the Wingham Ironmen set a positive tone for their playoff series against the Kincardine Bulldogs. Following that win, the Ironmen edged out the Bulldogs 5-4 on Saturday and 4-3 on Sunday. The teams face off Feb. 28 in Wingham. (John Stephenson photo)

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Wingham Ironmen have jumped to a 3-0 series lead over the Kincardine Bulldogs in the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) playoffs.

The Bulldogs, fresh off eliminating the Goderich Flyers, have been putting up a fight with two of the three games being won by one goal and one going into overtime.

Regardless, the squad faced elimination this week when the two teams faced off on Feb. 26 in Kincardine.

On Sunday, the Ironmen posted a 4-3 win over the Bulldogs in Wingham.

The Ironmen dominated the first two periods, in part thanks to their power-play unit, scoring four goals

and only allowing one. The third, however, belonged to the Bulldogs who nearly tied up the game before the final buzzer.

Justin Donnelly struck first for the Ironmen, earning a power-play marker assisted by Dawson Fahrer.

Kyle Stanbury scored next, assisted

by Coleson Fischer and Rhys Vollmer.

Stanbury opened the second with a power-play marker, assisted by Vollmer and Fahrer, before Kent Ribey scored Kincardine’s first goal, assisted by Traynor.

Stanbury scored Wingham’s fourth goal and completed his hattrick with a power-play marker assisted by Vollmer and Logan Tolton.

Geoffry VandenBoorn scored a power-play marker for the Bulldogs in the third period, assisted by Logan

Swanton. Less than 30 seconds later, Mike Fiegehen found the back of the net for the Bulldogs, assisted by Swanton and Logan Freiburger.

Devon Carson earned the win for the Ironmen, stopping 24 of 27 shots, while Sean Andrus was in net for the Bulldogs and stopped 21 of 25 shots.

Kincardine had trouble staying out of the penalty box, serving 50 minutes on 13 infractions while Wingham served 22 minutes on seven infractions.

On Saturday, the Ironmen required overtime to secure a 5-4 win over the Bulldogs, despite outshooting Kincardine 48-27.

Wingham’s Trevor Donaldson earned an unassisted goal, the only marker of the first period, to start off the action.

Kincardine came out swinging in

Crusaders’ postseason continues

By Denny Scott The Citizen Crusader teams are playing through the postseason, aiming for victory in local playdowns before hockey finishes up for another year.

The Atom Local League Crusaders broke even over the weekend, dropping a 1-0 decision to the Ironmen in Wingham on Sunday after doubling the Huron-Bruce Blizzard 1 team 6-3 in Blyth on Saturday. The squad also played on Feb. 26, against the Blizzard 1 squad, but a score was unavailable at press time. The team will next face off against the BCH Ice Dogs 1 squad in Blyth on Feb. 29 at 10:15 a.m.

The PeeWee Rep squad also traded points over the past week,

besting the Mount Forest Rams on the road on Feb. 23, but dropping a 5-3 decision to the Central Perth Predators in Blyth on Feb. 19. The squad also played against the Mount Forest Rams in Blyth on Feb. 26, but a score was unavailable as of press time. The team will have a rematch against the Predators on March 6 on the road.

The PeeWee Local League squad was beaten 6-0 by the Mitchell Meteors on Feb. 19 in Blyth. The squad also faced off against the Walkerton Capitals in Blyth on Feb. 26, but a score was unavailable as of press time. The Crusaders will next face off against the West Grey Warriors on Feb. 29 in Brussels with the puck dropping at 1:30 p.m. The team will then be on the road for two straight weeks, first facing the

Warriors again on March 1 followed by games in Walkerton, Palmerston and Monkton.

The Bantam Rep Crusaders posted a 2-1 win over the Wingham Ironmen on Feb. 18. The squad also played on Feb. 25 against the Mitchell Meteors, however a score was unavailable as of press time.

The team is set to take to the ice tonight, Feb. 27, against the Goderich Sailors in Goderich.

The Bantam Local League squad was downed by the BCH Ice Dogs 9-5 in a repeat of the two teams’ first match of the postseason earlier this month. The Crusaders also faced off against the South Bruce Blades on Feb. 24, but a score was unavailable as of press time. The squad will next face off against the Minto Mad Dogs Continued on page 9

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 9.

Heat teams push through postseason, LLFHL playoffs Lower Lakes Female Hockey League (LLFHL) second-round playoffs this week with a game against the Saugeen Maitland Lightning on Feb. 25, however a score was unavailable as of press time. Games two and three of the series are set for Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. in Teeswater and Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m. in Seaforth.

The Atom HL (Haggit) Heat team was downed by the Belmont, Ayr and Dorchester (BAD) Blazers HL team 2-1 in Belmont on Feb. 23. The teams are set to face off on March 7 in Seaforth at 1 p.m.

The Atom HL 2 (Kerr) Heat squad was downed by the St. Thomas Panthers HL team at home on Feb. 23. The team faced off against the South Huron Sabres HL team in Stephen Township on Feb. 24, but a score was unavailable as of press time.

The team will next take to the ice on March 1 against St. Thomas on the road.

The PeeWee BB Heat emerged victorious from their second-round

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LLFHL playoff series against the Guelph Junior Gryphons last week, posting a 3-0 win on the road on Feb. 23 and a 2-1 win in Seaforth on Feb. 22.

The PeeWee HL Heat faced off against the West Oxford Inferno C team in Seaforth on Feb. 25, however a score was unavailable as of press time. The team will next face off against the Lambton Attack HL team in Seaforth on March 3.

The Bantam C squad posted a 4-0 win against the Tillsonburg Lightning C team in Brussels on Feb. 23. The squad will next see action tonight, Feb. 27, in Tillsonburg against the Lightning.

The Midget A squad started the second round of LLFHL playoffs against the Bluewater Hawks last week with a win on Feb. 22. Games were also set for Feb. 23 and Feb. 25, however scores were unavailable as of press time.

For more information, visit the Huron Heat website at huronheat.com.

The Huron PeeWee BB Heat were in action on Saturday, taking on the Guelph Junior Gryphons at the Seaforth and District Community Centre. The home team would come out victorious, winning the game by a score of 2-1. They would go on to win the second game of the series as well, beating the Junior Gryphons in Guelph on Sunday night by a score of 3-0.

(John Stephenson photo)

By Denny Scott The Citizen Several Huron Heat teams were in action over the weekend as the squads near the end of the postseason.

The Novice B squad have had a long break since they bested the St. Marys Rock in Seaforth 1-0 on Feb.

15. The Heat’s next playoff match is set for March 1 against the Lucan Irish C in Hensall.

The Novice HL 1 (Vanstone) Heat had a rough week, dropping consecutive postseason matches to the Mitchell Meteors: on Feb. 19, the Heat lost 8-0 on home ice and on Feb. 22 the Heat was on the wrong side of a 5-1 decision. The team will

next take on the Novice HL 2 (Calder) Heat team on March 4 in Seaforth with the game set to start at 5:30 p.m.

The Calder squad, which posted a 4-1 loss to the Stratford Aces Red team on Feb. 22, will face off against the Mitchell Meteors in Mitchell on Feb. 29 at 5:45 p.m.

The Atom A Heat continued their

Hosts The Provincial Mixed Doubles Curling champions from 2019, Katie and Shawn Cottrill, above, hosted the first-ever Ontario Mixed Doubles Tour Championship in Wingham over the weekend. Clancy Grandy and Patrick Janssen of Pickering secured the championship with 10-2 victory over Dorottya Palancsa and Zsolt Kiss of Budapest, Hungary.

(John Stephenson photo)

He shoots...

While plenty of Crusader squads are competing for postseason glory, only one team, the Atom Rep Crusaders, are currently pursuing Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) gold. The squad is currently up one game over the Mariposa Lightning in the provincial semifinals. (John Stephenson photo)

Midget LL Crusaders push streak Continued from page 8 in Brussels on Feb. 29 with the puck set to drop at 4:30 p.m. The squad will then travel to Ripley to take on the Huron-Bruce Blizzard on March 1 and then host the Blades in Blyth on March 2 with puck drop set for 7:30 p.m.

The Midget Rep Crusaders were downed 3-1 by the Shallow Lake Lakers in Blyth on Feb. 23. The squad will next face off against the Walkerton Capitals in Walkerton on Feb. 28 before welcoming the

Capitals to Brussels on March 3 with a 9 p.m. puck drop.

The Midget Local League Crusaders continued a postseason winning streak over the past week with two wins on the road, marking three postseason wins in as many games. The squad travelled to Mildmay to take on the South Bruce Blades and posted a 6-5 win on Feb. 18, then, on Feb. 21, posted a 7-5 win over Mount Forest. The squad came home on Feb. 24 to take on the Listowel Cyclones in Blyth,

however a score was unavailable as of press time. The team will face off against the Mount Forest Rams again in Brussels on Feb. 29 at 6 p.m., then travel to Harriston on March 2 to take on the Minto Mad Dogs.

The Atom Rep Crusaders are also in action, and sitting one game up in an Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) playoff series against the Mariposa Lighting. For full details on the squad and the series, see page 1.

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PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Mitchell speaks in Saskatoon PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

Congratulations Maradith Schuit, centre, a F.E. Madill School student, placed first at the recent Brussels Legion public speaking competition. Schuit was presented her award by Branch Youth Chair Nanci Ducharme, left, and Branch President Jamie Mitchell, right. (Photo submitted)

Cardiff wins Lehmbruck Prize Local congratulations also go out to Audrey Cardiff’s daughter Janet Cardiff and her partner George Bures Miller. They were named the winners of the Wilhelm Lehmbruck Prize presented by the City of Duisburg and the Rhineland Regional Council and the Stiftung Wilhelm Lehmbruck Museum. A jury of international experts chose the two winners to receive one of the most prestigious accolades for sculpture worldwide. It honours Janet and George for their life’s work, which has opened up new dimensions in sculpture in the 20th and 21st centuries.

The couple divides their time between Berlin and Grindrod, B.C., Canada. The awards ceremony will take place on Sept. 20 at the Lehmbruck Museum and an exhibition of their works will open in Nov. 2020 until April 2022.

Congratulations to Janet and George and proud mother Audrey.

Our condolences to the Parker family on the passing of Karen Parker. She will be lovingly missed by her daughters Lisa, Tara, Lori and Lara and their families. Karen will be remembered for her wonderful kindness and caring when working as a Registered Nurse at the former Callander Nursing Home in Brussels. Upon its closing, she worked at the Golden Lantern restaurant and then soon moved to Listowel. Our deepest sympathies to all the families.

The Cranbrook Dart Club had 16 darters come out to aim at the boards and enjoy an evening out. The team of George Zwep and Gayle Speiran won five games. Karen Bowles and Rob VanderVeen won four games, as did Steve Bowers and Annette Lewington. Gayle was the high lady with a score of 127 and Steve the high man with 118.

I enjoyed a day with Kelly and Alicia and friend Alecia and enjoyed my Christmas gift with them. We travelled to Toronto to the Royal Alexandra Theatre to see the hit musical Come From Away. It was fantastic. The story begins with the usual coffee shop gathering, a normal day in the town of Gander, Newfoundland, with a population of just over 10,000. The Gander airport was once one of the largest airports in the world, used for refuelling

transatlantic flights, and by midmorning of Sept. 11, 2001, the lives of the people of Gander had changed. There were 38 planes landing, nearly 7,000 people to house and feed, 19 animals to care for and, for the next five days, a never-ending job to get supplies brought in. The U.S. airspace was closed for travel. There were only 500 hotel rooms in Gander so elementary schools around the area and in Gander, were transformed into housing and many of the people of Gander opened their homes to strangers to sleep and shower. They turned the arena into a large walk-in cooler. Meals included Kosher and vegetarian options, three times a day, for the travellers from 95 countries aboard the flights.

This is the story of how a community gathered and worked together to provide for thousands of strangers for five days. Food, medicine, personal items, toilet paper, hygiene products, phones,

computers and what we all take for granted everyday without thinking.

A well-written story brought alive by the music and songs by the 12 actors and eight musicians on stage.

The show is 100 minutes long with no intermission and the time just flew by with your undivided attention to the songs, lines, jokes and dancing, all done in the trademark Newfoundland twang.

Fantastic, great, wonderful, amazing are all words to describe the show.

Highly recommended by all who have seen it. It is in its third year at the Royal Alexandra Theatre. What a wonderful Christmas gift!

We send our get-well wishes to old friend Pat Langlois. She suffered a fall and broke her hip a few weeks ago and I learned about it just the other day. I checked it out with Mary and she reports that Pat is getting along great. She has been in Seaforth hospital for treatment and by the time the paper is out, she should be home.

The snowmobile enthusiasts have had a week of good weather and the trails have been busy. Anytime I have been out driving, I have seen sleds on the trails, heading down the roads or just roaring around the fields on the farm.

We start with congratulations to Sean Mitchell. Sean was a guest speaker at the Canadian Association of Agri Retailers (CAAR) conference in Saskatoon in midFebruary. Sean was reporting on the interpretation of the Canadian Precision Agriculture Development Survey results about the adoption of precision agriculture technology in agri-retail. Sean is a Chancellor’s Scholar Research Assistant in the Department of Food, Agriculture and Resource Economics at the University of Guelph whose research surveying the adoption of precision agriculture technologies has been published in the Canadian Journal of Plant Science. Sean is the son of Neil and Marie Mitchell.

The Brussels ladies birthday group gathered last week for the February birthdays. They enjoyed a delicious chicken dinner at JR’s. The

birthday girls are Marci Bremner and Bev Palmer and they were joined by Joan Bernard, Alice Marks, Jane Hall, Betty Campbell, Merle Cousins, Dale Chesher, Nora Stephenson, Jean Davidson, Sandra Clark, Edna McLellan, Sandra Cable, Betty Cardiff, Lois McCutcheon and Isabelle Wheeler.

It was a wonderful get-together for the ladies.

Celebrating birthdays this past week are Shawna Terpstra, Helen Brenie, Kathy Clark, Tyler Williamson, Steve Knight, Kevin McNaughton, Bruce McDonald, Tamara Williamson, Chris Lee, Carly Terpstra and Terry Nichol.

Happy birthday to all.

NEWS FROM WALTON

County to replace AG4 Huron East Council has accepted a housekeeping amendment to the municipality’s zoning bylaw and official plan, including changes to the controversial AG4 (agricultural small holding) designation.

Huron County Planner Laura Simpson spoke to council at its Feb. 18 meeting and discussed the changes in detail.

To tackle the AG4 issue planners found themselves in last year after a legal challenge in another Huron County municipality, the planning department has created the Rural Residential zone. The zoning, which is supported by the Huron County Official Plan, would recognize the existing house on a rural property as the primary use of a newly-created property in the event of surplus severance. Simpson said the new designation will allow for existing barns to be retained and for new barns of an “appropriate scale” to be built on small acreages.

She told council that hobby barns will be added as a new definition in the zoning and that new provisions will also be added. This will essentially recreate the AG4 designation and allow the

department to control how many animals would be allowed on the property, something they found they couldn’t do with the AG4 designation after the aforementioned legal challenge. Automatic rezoning will still occur, she said.

The existing AG4 zone will still exist, but it will be amended to remove maximum nutrient unit allowances and site-specific livestock maximums. She also told council that existing AG4 properties will essentially be grandfathered in and their designation will not change.

Councillors asked about the change and Simpson said the default zoning change in the event of a surplus severance will now be Rural Residential and AG4 will be available upon request, but would have to be approved by the department.

Simpson also informed council of several small changes to the general provisions, active and inactive waste disposal sites, minimum distance separation and residential provision clauses of the official plan.

Council approved Simpson’s recommendations.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 11.

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Brussels Livestock report

Veal sells on strong active trade at sale Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending Feb. 21 were 1,420 cattle and 366 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday, fed steers and heifers sold actively at prices $1 to $2 higher. Choice steers and heifers sold $143 to $148 with sales to $152.50. Second cut steers and heifers sold $139 to $143. Cows sold steady. On Thursday veal sold on a strong active trade at steady prices.

Lambs and sheep sold steady and goats sold higher. On Friday calves and yearlings sold actively at steady prices.

John Vanloo of Bluevale, consigned six steers that averaged 1,578 lbs. and sold for an average price of $150.86. Two charolais steers averaged 1,613 lbs. and sold for an average price of $152.50.

Noah and Neil Weppler of Ayton, consigned 10 head that averaged 1,642 lbs. and sold for an average

price of $140.70. Three red steers averaged 1,647 lbs. and sold for an average price of $147.

Arden Coultes of Wingham, consigned seven heifers that averaged 1,428 lbs. and sold for an average price of $141.43. One bwf heifer weighed 1,450 lbs. and sold for $148. Larry Reinhart Jr. of Mildmay, consigned 16 heifers that averaged 1,302 lbs. and sold for an average price of $141.53. One limousin heifer weighed 1,200 lbs. and sold for $148.

There were 275 cows on offer.

Beef sold $70 to $78 with sales to $93; D1 and D2, $68 to $78 with sales to $79; D3, $60 to $67; D4, $52 to $60.

Steve Bowman of Denfield, consigned one black cow that weighed 1,390 lbs. and sold for $93.

Ferme Joanie Enr of Notre-Damedu-Nord, Quebec, consigned one limousin cow that weighed 1,345

lbs. and sold for $91.

There were seven bulls selling $96 to $128. Justin Burgess of Hanover, consigned one limousin bull that weighed 1,465 lbs. and sold for $128.

There were 100 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $150 to $180 with sales to $188; good holsteins, $125 to $130 with sales to $137; SL heavy holsteins, $115 to $120; heavy holsteins, $105 to $110; medium holsteins, $110 to $120.

Emanuel M. Martin of Elmira, consigned one blue steer that weighed 835 lbs. and sold for $188.

Joseph M. Frey of St. Clements, consigned three steers that averaged 927 lbs. and sold for an average price of $142.85. One limousin steer weighed 930 lbs. and sold for $178.

John Benneweis of Bornholm, consigned four holstein steers that averaged 714 lbs. and sold for an

average price of $131. One holstein steer weighed 670 lbs. and sold for $137.

Lambs, 50 - 64 lbs. sold $353 to $376; 65 - 79 lbs., $343 to $366; 80 - 94 lbs., $267 to $292; 95 - 110 lbs., $249 to $250.

Sheep sold $125 to $216.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $300; nannies, $100 to $200; kids: meat, $375 to $460; dairy, $250 to $435.

Evan Hoonaard of Blyth, consigned 11 lambs that averaged 47 lbs. and sold for an average price of $400. Glen Voisin of Formosa, consigned 10 lambs that averaged 68 lbs. and sold for an average price of $351.44. Four lambs averaged 65 lbs. and sold for a price of $366.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $231 to $238; 400 - 499 lbs., $246.50 to $264.50; 500 - 599 lbs., $226 to $261; 600 - 699 lbs., $211 to $230.50; 700 - 799 lbs., $191 to $200; 800 - 899 lbs., $187 to

McIntosh wins national baking comp.

Big win Dugald McIntosh, after winning a baking competition at the Seaforth Fall Fair, won the National Country Fair Baking’s Robin Hood Flour Contest’s Family Best Lunchbox category late last year, winning $200 for his hard work and creativity. (Photo submitted)

After claiming victory at the Seaforth Fall Fair, local youth Dugald McIntosh and his oatmeal raisin cookies won the National Country Fair Baking’s Robin Hood Flour Contest’s Family Best Lunchbox category late last year.

Dugald, who has participated in the Seaforth Fall Fair for eight years, since he was four years old, claimed the top spot in the Robin Hood Flour Special-Country Fair Baking Contest’s best homemade cookies category last September, which made him eligible for the national competition.

Dugald’s mother Barbara explained that, on the day of the Seaforth competition, Dugald woke up early and baked his cookies so they would be fresh for the fair. The recipe he uses was handed down from his grandmother Mary Fotheringham.

Dugald’s win at the Seaforth fair earned him prize money as well as a $25 Robin Hood Flour gift certificate and made him eligible for the national competition in midDecember. Shortly after the competition, he received a letter that he had won, which included a $200 prize.

Dugald is looking forward to the next fair, Barbara said, and encourages other people to compete at the fair.

While he’s certainly a first-place baker, Dugald isn’t the first Seaforth-area culinary creator to capture one of the national awards.

In 2012, Quinn Driscoll entered the Robin Hood Flour Bread Making competition with a special bread he made on the barbecue. After winning first place in Seaforth,

Food Day Ontario established Ontarians will now have a day dedicated to local food – Food Day Ontario – thanks to a private member’s bill proposed by MPP Vincent Ke. Bill 163, Food Day Ontario (Food Day Canada in Ontario) Act, 2019 was introduced to the legislature in December, 2019 and completed second reading at Queen’s Park last week.

This new act proclaims the first Saturday immediately before the August Civic Holiday as Food Day Ontario (Food Day Canada in Ontario). Adding Food Day Ontario to the calendar recognizes the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in our provincial agri-food sector – from farmers and food processors to chefs and home cooks.

“Congratulations to MPP Vincent Ke for driving this initiative to recognize the importance of agriculture and food to our province,” says Keith Currie, president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). “Promoting local food and our agri-food sector will strengthen and enhance Continued on page 12

Driscoll’s creation won at the national level, earning him an MP3 player.

His path began one year earlier when both he and his brother Connor entered and Connor won the fair competition. The following year, they both entered and Quinn, wanting to do something different, went all the way.

$191.50; 900 - 999 lbs., $173 to $184.50; 1,000 lbs. and over, $169 to $180.50.

Top quality stocker heifers, 300 399 lbs. sold $215.50 to $220; 400 499 lbs., $178 to $210; 500 - 599 lbs., $187 to $199; 600 - 699 lbs., $170 to $195.50; 700 - 799 lbs., $175 to $189; 800 - 899 lbs., $164 to $178.50; 900 lbs. and over, $158.50 to $176.75.

Glen Rhode of Woodham, consigned 24 head. Five gold heifers averaged 578 lbs. and sold for an average price of $199. Five gold steers averaged 470 lbs. and sold for an average price of $264.50. Aaron S. Weber of Wroxeter, consigned 15 head. Twelve simmental heifers averaged 944 lbs. and sold for an average price of $176.75. Titus Martin of Wingham, consigned 15 head. Five charolais steers averaged 986 lbs. and sold for an average price of $184.50.

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK Division of Gamble & Rogers Ltd.

UPCOMING SALES TUESDAYS 9:00 a.m.

Fed Cattle, Bulls & Cows

THURSDAYS 8:00 a.m. Drop Calves 10:00 a.m.Veal 11:30 a.m. Lambs, Goats & Sheep

FRIDAYS 10:00 a.m. Stockers

BUY? SELL? TRY CLASSIFIED

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PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

UCW set to support outreach committee PEOPLE AROUND LONDESBORO

By BRENDA RADFORD Call 523-4296

A helping hand As part of a celebration marking Bell Let’s Talk Day late last month, the Hullett Central Public School Me to We group made a donation to the Tanner Steffler Foundation of $592.82. The presentation was made during a special assembly at the school. (Denny Scott photo)

The February meeting of the Londesborough UCW was held on Monday, Feb. 17, Family Day. Ann Adams, Kim Roetsicoender, Mary Ann Drost and Catherine Allen, who were leading the program that evening, felt it appropriate to share family stories.

Three of them brought along

Committee chooses to support SCAW In a previous column I mentioned the need to check out charities when donating in order to “get the best bang for your buck”, so to speak. The outreach committee at Londesborough United chose to support Sleeping Children Around the World (SCAW) this year. February was chosen as the project month and their objective was 35 bed kits. As of Feb. 23, the congregation had exceeded that goal with monies for 37 kits having been donated.

In 1970, Murray Dryden tripped over a child sleeping on a street in Pakistan. Determined to help children such as this, he and his wife began the charity known around the world now as SCAW. All donated money is used for the children with any operating costs being paid from a legacy account; a good choice when looking for a charity to support. The Rotary Club is a big supporter of this work. It is a Canadian registered charity.

Forty-million dollars has been

raised since 1970 and 1.5 million children in 34 developing countries have received bed kits. Each $35 bed kit contains sleeping materials, mosquito netting [to prevent disease], clothing and school supplies. Another bonus is that the bed kits are sourced in the country for which they are intended, if possible, to offer a positive impact on the local community.

The kits are given to children aged six to 12 from financially-strapped

families. The purpose of the charity is to give every child the opportunity to have a good night's sleep.

There are 2,000 volunteers around the globe who travel, at their own expense, to put the kits together and deliver them to the children. Gary Jewitt of Clinton has been involved with this charity for many years. He leaves for Rwanda this summer and Gary plans to bring back pictures of Londesborough’s kits being handed out.

treasured quilts and talked about them while Mary Ann gave a remembrance for each for the five cup-and-saucer sets she showed the group.

Scripture passages which spoke of family were offered: Joshua 24:14&15; Acts 10: 2; and Cor. 13:4-8. A prayer for protection of the various families we are all a part of was offered. Hymns, “We Are a Part of the Family” and “Bless Our Home and Family” were sung.

Ann Adams asked everyone to design/draw a quilt representing our families on a pre-printed piece of paper. Interesting talks about their patterns were shared.

President Marie Bergsma presided over the business part of the evening.

A quick advance look regarding attending a Blyth Festival play was done with the April meeting decided on for making arrangements. All UCW members of the former Huron-Perth Presbyterial are invited to attend the closing of that group on April 4 the Varna Complex.

Motions were passed to donate money for two bed kits to the church’s Outreach Committee and for five backpacks to the senior Sunday School class.

The UCW Benediction closed the meeting.

United Church board to met March 12 On Sunday, Feb. 16, two young girls, cousins Morgan Yantzi and Sadie Baxter, favoured the congregation at Londesborough United with the duet, “Made For This”. This tune confirmed the idea that young people are prepared to step forward and do good things for their community.

On Sunday, Feb. 23 the senior choir offered a beautiful anthem by Don Besig and Nancy Price, “I Will Be True”.

Minister Susan McIlveen

conducted her first communion with Londesborough United Church on Sunday, Feb. 23. Assisting Susan with the serving of the elements that morning were Nick and Joan Whyte and Laura Scott.

The official board of Londesborough United will meet on March 12 beginning at 7 p.m. *** So often when the bag of flyers appears in our mailboxes or on our driveways it gets ignored. It may even get to the blue box without a

Just wide After keeping pace with the Clinton Radars for four games, splitting them evenly, the Seaforth Centenaires were eliminated from the Western Ontario Athletic Association Senior Hockey playoffs over the weekend when the Radar won back-to-back games. (John Stephenson photo)

look. However, I hope you all checked last week’s bag of flyers.

Included last week was Experience Central Huron, a terrific little book containing everything you might

need to know about our municipality.

One thing you might check out in that book is registration information for summer sports and activities.

Food Day set to help promote food literacy Continued from page 11 Ontario’s economy overall. Food Day Ontario also serves to another focal point to promote food literacy and food access, both important aspects of improving the overall health of our province.”

Ontario grows and produces the greatest variety of food in our country – more than 200 different farm and food products. Food Day Ontario (Food Day Canada in Ontario) is expected to recognize and encourage more Ontarians to buy locally and support our farmers, rural communities and their local economies.

“Ontario’s diverse and innovative agri-food industry feeds our population, fuels our rural communities and drives the provincial economy, contributing more than $47 billion to our province’s annual GDP,” says Currie. “Ontario farmers and food processors produce safe, nutritious, high quality foods and dedicating a day to the celebration of food will serve to raise awareness and

Visit The Citizen at huroncitizen.ca for local sports coverage and photos

encourage Ontarians to choose to buy and appreciate our local bounty.”

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 13.

The Citizen’s Wedding Showcase 2020

PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Shucking tradition in favour of individuality can put new spins on their gowns by adding colour and texture. Sequins, bold embroidery, shorter hemlines, and whatever adventurous fashion style you want to impart can be considered. If white isn’t your thing, that’s alright. Yellow and slate gray look great together. Gentlemen can choose to wear a black suit or any combination of color and style they want to make a dramatic impression.

• Full of flavour: Cakes don’t have to be white with white buttercream. In fact, couples can make things even more tasty by incorporating favourite flavour combinations into their cakes. For example, a chocolate and caramel filling reminiscent of a candy bar might be something to consider.

Modern couples are embracing bold, unique and edgy components when planning their weddings.

Putting an individualized spin on the ceremony and reception can make couples even more excited to tie the knot.

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Doing something new While some couples opt for traditional wedding practices, it’s becoming more and more acceptable to buck them in favour of more individually-focused services. From clothes to dinner to the cake to finding the perfect venue for a couple, there are plenty of ways to make a wedding personal and unique. (MS photo) MS – Brides and grooms once felt compelled to conform to the trappings of traditional weddings.

From uber-romantic vows to pastel colours to the penultimate white tiered cake, various wedding components were long considered must-haves. But modern couples are increasingly expressing their individuality, and even embracing more edgy and adventurous elements, when planning their weddings.

According to The Knot, a leading bridal resource and information site, today’s weddings are not what they were just a few years ago. Bold colours, exotic cakes and nontraditional foliage are just some

of the elements modern couples are embracing to set their weddings apart.

• Adventurous locales: Vineyards and catering halls can be great places to tie the knot, but couples who like to push the envelope are looking to more adventurous locales to impart their unique spin on their weddings.

Sharing vows atop a mountain crest at the end of a favourite hiking trail or on a roller coaster at a theme park that harkens back to a first date are some adventurous places to tie the knot.

• Outside-the-box menus: Couples may want to break with tradition by offering a wide selection of foods at their receptions. These

foods can include items that fit with their specific ethnic cuisines, gourmet comfort foods (think cocktail franks wellington), or foods that fit with their dietary choices, such as organic or vegan options.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 15.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Make the night a memorable one with favours • Charitable donations: Some couples feel that favours are wasteful and would rather set aside a portion of their wedding budgets toward giving back. In such situations, a donation to charity in guests’ names can be the way to go. Guests can vote on two favourite charities advertised on a special table at the wedding reception. The one with the most votes will get the proceeds.

• Late-night snacks: After a night of celebrating, some guests may want the festivities to continue, but may need some extra sustenance to make it through a few more hours.

Some couples are eschewing

traditional favours in lieu of making room for extra food or beverage expenses that can include after-party treats. These may run the gamut from wood-fired pizzas to food truck vendors to extra desserts. A tasty take-home option also may be given, such as fresh zeppolis or beignets, or even a personalized bottle of wine.

Even if the food and drink is not consumed right away, there’s a good chance it will hit the spot when guests return to their hotel rooms.

Wedding favours are changing to keep up with the times and keep guests feeling extra special.

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The era of trinkets given out at weddings is coming to an end and, in their place, personalized mementos, experiential opportunities and donations are taking its place, making for a better experience for wedding-goers. (MS photo) MS – Wedding favours have changed – and in many cases for the better. Favours have evolved from the inexpensive trinkets purchased in bulk into more personalized mementos that guests can cherish.

Today’s couples are interested in customizing their weddings and offering guests something meaningful, or at the very least, edible, so that favours don’t immediately get relegated to the trash can.

According to Heather Jones of Wente Vineyards in California, favours have moved from “goodie bags” toward items that are experimental and fun. Wedding planners from across the country offer these wedding favour trends that couples may want to incorporate into their own celebrations.

• Welcome bags: Rather than take-home bags, welcome bags have replaced the traditional favour trinket at some weddings. Many weddings have become multi-day events that ask guests traveling from out of town to attend a wedding weekend. To help greet them and make their experience memorable, couples may fill a gift bag with items guests can use or enjoy during their stay – like a bottle of locally-

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• Experience gifts: Instead of a candle or a monogrammed cake server, think of experiences to offer guests. A coupon for free drinks at a nearby brewery, a tour of a local attraction while guests are in town or a group excursion for guests attending a destination wedding can be fun and will help guests create lasting memories.

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PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Flowers a safe bet to transcend wedding fads Weddings says a cascade of flowers and greens can be romantic and elegant.

• Dance floor blooms: Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor, or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet.

• Floral necklaces: Brides needn’t carry their bouquets, they can wear ethereal and whimsical floral pieces around their necks or on their waists instead.

Couples are urged to speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings.

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While other fads may come and go, flowers will always be a part of many weddings, though that doesn’t mean they need to be used in traditional ways. From adorning the wedding and reception space to being woven throughout the event through a little creativity, flowers aren’t just for the bride and reception tables anymore. (MS photo) MS – Move over bouquets and centerpieces. Flowers are taking over weddings in a big way. While wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place at the wedding table.

The blooms brides and grooms choose and how they decide to display them can say much about the couple’s style.

Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating elsewhere into their occasions, such as in cakes and clothing.

In fact, floral designer Tom Uberuaga says traditional hurricane vase centerpieces are outdated and only focus the eye on the middle of the table. He prefers guests enter the wedding and have their senses stimulated by flowers from all angles. Large flower installations, as well as blooms popping up in

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unexpected places, are some of the hot trends for couples to keep their eyes on.

• Floral chandeliers: There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments.

Thanks to hanging flowers and floral chandeliers, flowers are quite literally moving up in the world.

Hanging floral pieces can add instant drama and make a large visual impact. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems or floral swags. Hanging floral chandeliers are dramatic but naturally expensive. Think about a

large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.

• Welcome wreaths: Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.

• Fairy-tale flowers: A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms. Couples who would like a fairy-tale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception. Martha Stewart

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 17.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Private vows allow personalization without a crowd intimidated by a heartfelt recital of their vows in front of a crowd, then exchanging vows in private may be for them.

Wedding planners and industry experts say that private vows have become very popular. While the vows do not replace the public exchange that seals the marriage from a legal standpoint, they can be words shared in a private moment before the actual ceremony itself. A quiet moment alone allows couples to shed private tears and share a special moment before they make haste for the altar.

The Knot, a premier wedding planning resource, notes that there are many reasons to share private vows.

• You do not like being in the spotlight or become shy in front of crowds.

• There are words you would like

to share with your future spouse that are deeply private, and you don’t want to express those feelings to every person at the wedding.

• You do not want to censor your thoughts or words.

• You desire an intimately private and personal moment together before all of the fanfare and rush of the wedding.

• You’d like to recite loving words in a native language that some guests may not understand.

• You desire the potential for some very great candid photos if you invite the photographer to be there at a distance.

• You want to create a lasting memory that is only yours as a couple to share.

The popularity of private vows exchanged before a wedding ceremony is growing. This growing trend provides yet another way for couples to personalize their weddings.

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Private vows allow personal vows to be read in a more intimate setting, giving the best of both worlds. (MS photo) MS – Weddings are very special occasions for two people who are in love. That’s why many couples want close family and friends nearby when they tie the knot. But even the happiest couples may express some nervousness about one particular part

of traditional wedding ceremonies.

Wedding vows are a way for couples to profess their love for each other. However, many couples who want to write their own vows are hesitant to say them aloud in front of an audience. If couples are

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PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Daytime weddings are possible with some planning complemented by working with a hotel or bed and breakfast to ensure guests will have a place to stay and get ready to arrive at the early wedding in time.

• Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices: The wedding resource Bridal Guide says that vendors are typically more amenable to price discounts or offering greater value for daytime weddings. That’s because demand for their services is reduced during the day. Similarly, venues may have more availability during the day than at night, and, as a result, they’re more flexible on prices, especially since brunch foods generally cost less than dinner entrees.

• Hire the right photographer: Be sure to contract with a photographer who is a professional at handling photos in daylight and natural light.

While many photographers are skilled in any light, many are used to shooting in churches and venues with low

lighting. Be sure to see picture samples taken during the daytime to gauge a photographer’s daytime experience and skill level.

• Employ colour to add dimension: During evening weddings, lighting or candles help set the mood. Those same elements will be ineffective in daylight.

Choose bright colours for your decor and flowers to brighten up spaces.

• Choose alternative entertainment: Chances are guests are not going to feel as comfortable dancing during daylight hours.

Consider other entertainment, such as lawn games, karaoke or a comedian. A guitarist or pianist may be a nice musical touch.

• Plan food accordingly: Just because the wedding is early does not mean the food should be. Guests still will need to eat. If you are only opting for light appetizers and cocktails, be sure to mention this on

the invitation so guests can plan ahead and won’t go hungry.

Daytime weddings can be successful with a little tweaking of traditional evening wedding planning.

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That natural light Whether it’s for scheduling or getting that perfect outdoor look, daytime weddings are more and more popular. With a daytime wedding, however some additional concerns need to be addressed including picking the right colour scheme, appropriate entertainment and getting the right kind of accommodations set up. (MS photo) MS – Weddings dot the social calendars of millions of people across the globe. The Association for Wedding Professionals International says every year an average of 2.4 million weddings are performed in the United States and approximately 150,000 per year are performed in Canada. Evenings are the most common time of the day to host a wedding, but that does not mean a daytime wedding cannot be a beautiful event and make for a party to remember.

Couples are increasingly customizing their weddings to be a reflection of their personal styles.

One of the ways couples are customizing their festivities is by moving the wedding to various hours of the day that meet the couple’s needs. A wedding that takes place in the late morning or afternoon may be the perfect fit for some couples. Here’s how to navigate the specifics of a daytime wedding.

• Secure accommodations: An early wedding means guests may have to travel from afar the evening before to be able to attend the festivities. Daytime weddings can be

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 19.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Tips for keeping the reception budget under control Book the venue from Monday through Friday, as even Sunday prices have escalated. The further away from the weekend, the lower the prices tend to be.

• Fake the cake: The Knot indicates a wedding cake runs roughly $530. Consider displaying a mock cake for photos and then serve a sheet cake during dessert hour.

Decorating foam tiers to look like an extravagant cake can save a few hundred dollars, and guests won’t know the difference when the’'re biting into a delicious, less costly dessert.

• Skip the extras: Reception venues may upcharge for all the little details, such as linens in custom

Nearly half of most weddings budget is dedicated to the reception after the ceremony. Between dinner, drinks, dessert and a late-night snack, the wedding can end up being the less expensive of the two parts of the service. By limiting an open bar to specific drinks, choosing the right kind of foods and cutting back on the extras, couples can budget effectively. (MS photo)

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MS – Weddings have a tendency to be expensive endeavours.

According to The Knot’s 2018 Real Weddings Study, the national average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is $33,931. Nearly half of that ($15,439) is spent on the reception venue alone.

As expensive as wedding receptions can be, couples should know that there are many ways to reduce reception costs without sacrificing fun.

• Choose foods wisely: Pore over the details of catering costs. The Knot says the average price for catering will be $68 per person. If you opt for an appetizers and cocktails reception, you may be able to shave several dollars off the bill.

Look closely at the pricing for buffet versus plated meals. Buffet

colors or chair covers. If you can live without these extras, do so. Ask for a list of itemized extras so you can assess what you want to pay for and what you’d prefer to avoid.

Wedding receptions are costly, but there are many ways to save money and still enjoy a memorable evening.

service often means having a greater quantity of food on hand, which could drive up the cost. Find out if the catering hall can work with your budget to provide cost-conscious options, like familiar comfort foods instead of gourmet fare.

• Serve a custom-made cocktail: A themed drink, such as punch or a classic spirit with a reimagined, wedding-friendly name, can be less expensive than offering full open bar service. Some couples also opt to pay for only wine and beer rather than a full open bar that includes liquor and mixed drinks.

• Book a weeknight: Weekend weddings are easier on guests’ schedules, but not on couples’ budgets. Couples can save thousands of dollars by hosting weeknight weddings instead of weekend affairs.

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PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Enjoy familiar comfort with an at-home wedding perform ceremonies outside of a place of worship.

• Learn if it’s legal: Certain municipalities may require permits for parking on street, noise past a certain hour, closing of streets and much more. Do your research. You may need to co-ordinate parking at a nearby lot (like a school closed on the weekend) and shuttle people to your home.

• Consult with an insurance carrier: Inquire if having such a large party at home is covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy, particularly if your home is damaged or someone gets injured during the festivities. Supplemental liability insurance or an umbrella policy may offer greater protection.

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Home is where the heart is From cost savings to comfort, there are plenty of reasons to host a wedding at home instead of finding the perfect space or spaces for a wedding and the following reception. That said, having such a large and intricate celebration at home can require significant planning as well as a bit of research ahead of time. To really nail the home celebration, everything from having a clean home to following local laws and bylaws needs to be taken into consideration. (MS photo) MS – Many couples preparing for their trip down the aisle follow the familiar sentiments expressed by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz. Such couples feel “there’s no place like home” when hosting a wedding ceremony or reception.

There are many benefits to hosting a wedding at home. Homes often hold couples’ most cherished memories, and hosting a backyard celebration or an intimate indoor ceremony at your own home or the abode of a loved one can be a cost-effective way to have a good time.

Here are some tips to help couples navigate hosting an at-home wedding.

• Assess the space: The average

home is not equipped to handle hundreds of guests, wait staff, caterers and parked cars.

Concessions in regard to comfort and safety will have to be made when drawing up the guest list. The wedding resource The Knot advises the general rule is six to 10 square feet of floor space per guest for row seating. You’ll probably need even more space for buffet tables, seating and a dance floor.

You will likely need to temporarily move furniture to comfortably fit everyone indoors – or rent a large enough tent for a backyard wedding.

• Hire a cleaning service: It’s important to present a clean, inviting space when hosting a wedding at

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home. A cleaning service will conduct a thorough cleaning before and after the festivities, freeing up your time for last-minute tasks or to embark on your honeymoon.

• Book an officiant early: Confirm with an officiant that they can oversee the wedding proceedings at your home. Many religious officials are not able to

opportunity for couples who love the comfort and familiarity of their homes.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 21.

Wedding Showcase 2020 How to pick a modern wedding dinner menu allergies and even more caution is needed when designing wedding menus.

Savvy couples who have guests’ health and comfort in mind recognize the importance of offering a varied meal plan for weddingrelated parties and receptions. The following are some ideas to consider when planning wedding menus.

• Consider a buffet-style service: Although couples might like the tradition and flair that a seated/plated meal offers, it creates a much more limited selection of meal options. Buffet-style dinner service often provides couples with multiple choices, and it’s much more likely they can come up with a combination that caters to any food allergies or dietary restrictions guests may have.

• Opt for food stations: In lieu of one long buffet table, a modern approach is to have staffed food

stations. Food, as well as their ingredients, can be clearly stated on food table placards so guests can make appropriate choices.

• Offer alternatives for dessert: Wedding cake can be a challenge to someone with a gluten sensitivity or an egg or a nut allergy. While not every guest indulges in dessert, make it a point to offer an alternative to cake. Perhaps a groom’s cake can be revamped into gluten-free cookie bars or a nut-free trifle.

Couples who know in advance which types of dietary restrictions their guests have can work with caterers to devise a menu that suits everyone.

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Making the menu Between more prevalent allergies and people adopting diets that completely exclude some foods or ingredients, planning the dinner that accompanies many wedding receptions has become a more difficult proposition for most couples. With people avoiding gluten for personal or medical reasons, vegetarianism and veganism gaining ground and regular allergies, brides and grooms need to plan multiple dishes or look to buffet-style food to make sure there’s something for everyone. (MS photo) MS – Gone are the days when wedding reception menus were limited to the one-size-fits-all offerings of meat, chicken or fish.

Thanks to modern diets, couples hoping to accommodate guests may need to provide a wide array of food choices.

It is impossible to pinpoint an exact number, as there are no definitive surveys classifying all dietary preferences, but there are believed to be around 7.9 million people in the United States who follow a vegetarian-based diet. Of those people, around one million are strictly vegan, according to data in The Economist. In addition, NYU Langone Health says one-third of Americans are trying to avoid gluten.

The Gluten Free Agency, which is

a consulting group dedicated to helping advertisers, says some nine million people in Canada are going

gluten-free now for medical or personal reasons. Toss in the scores of people with peanut or other

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PAGE 22. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Take aim at a memorable dessert for your wedding artistic expression can be especially stunning in boho-chic weddings.

• Statement tiers also are popular.

The cake may be traditional in nearly every way, but couples then set the cake apart by featuring an elaborate design or a different hue in one tier.

• Martha Stewart Weddings advises that more than just colour can be used to make a statement.

Lifelike sugar flowers can really set cakes apart. Guests may not be sure if they can consume all aspects of some cakes, but delicate sugar flowers taste as good as they look.

• Hand-painted tiles on a cake are another way to add panache. A bride and groom may be inspired by a European vacation or the stainedglass effects of religious windows and want to add that feel to the tiers of the cake.

• Sometimes a statement comes by

way of texture. Even an all-white cake can be dressed up with interesting textural effects. Ruffles, lace, embossing, and 3-D rosettes are different textural components that can be incorporated in cake designs.

• Couples also may want to tell their unique stories with cake.

Individual tiers designed to reflect various milestone moments from the couple’s relationship can be quite engaging.

• Capitalizing on the trend of edgier weddings, couples may opt for darker hues on their cakes – even a black tier – or non-traditional geometric shapes to the cake itself or its design elements.

Statement cakes can really say something about the couple getting married. Much like other wedding elements, cakes provide a window into the minds of happy couples.

Fun and games Few aspects of planning a wedding can be as fun, and as personal, as picking the cake. From taste-testing to picking the right decorations, it can be fun for all couples. (MS photo) MS – Brides and grooms may pour over every detail of their weddings, but few components of the festivities may be as fun, especially for foodies, as deciding what the wedding cake will look like. Couples who want to deliver show-stopping visuals often express some measure of their creativity and

personalities through statement wedding cakes.

Many couples now eschew the classic three-tiered white cake in favour of a dessert that garners instant attention. Whether the cake is brightly coloured or hand-painted, a towering architectural marvel or shimmering in metallics, couples are

opting to make a statement with their confections. Apart from clever caketoppers, here are ways to stand apart when dessert is served.

• According to the Perfect Wedding Guide, a rising trend in cakes is to cover a white or naked cake with translucent glaze tinted in the couple’s wedding colours. This

Planning for guests’ enjoyment MS – Weddings may focus on the couples getting hitched, but weddings also are special thanks to the many family and friends couples involve in the festivities. Some of the more successful weddings are ones in which couples honour their guests and let them know how much they’re appreciated.

By incorporating these ideas into their wedding ceremonies and receptions, couples can let their guests know how much they’re loved.

• Arrange seats at the ceremony (if practical) in a circular pattern around you so that everyone can have a great view when you exchange vows.

• Create a bathroom convenience basket for both the men’s and

women’s bathrooms. Stock items that might come in handy, like mouthwash, toothpaste, first aid items, spare pantyhose, hair spray, sanitary products, moisturizer, gum and whatever other niceties you can imagine.

• Provide prearranged to-go boxes so that guests can take home tasty tidbits from the meal or dessert table.

• Offer transportation between the ceremony and reception.

• Customize “do not disturb” door tags for overnight guests so they can ensure they get enough shut-eye after partying into the wee hours of the morning.

• Make sure the photographer takes photos of everyone at every

table and then share those photos on a wedding website or via social media. Create a hashtag unique to your wedding so that guests can easily find the photos.

• Provide inexpensive slippers or

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 23.

Wedding Showcase 2020 Helpful tips and tricks for couples planning a wedding organizational style is best served by jotting details like dates and deposit deadlines down in a notebook or utilizing an online spreadsheet or smartphone app, choose your method early. Keeping information and reminders in one place can make it easier to manage all the tasks that lie ahead.

• Take your time: There’s no rush to the altar. Feel free to extend the engagement long enough to keep stress levels down and get the location and ceremony of your dreams. Many recently engaged couples feel pressured to get married right away. Stretching out the engagement to save money or give yourself more time to plan can make for a wonderful wedding day.

• Discuss the budget openly and honestly: Did you know a New York City wedding can cost $77,000, according to Money magazine?

Wedding costs can vary widely and couples should sit down together to decide what they can afford and are willing to pay for.

• Decide on a guest list: Planning decisions are often based around the projected number of guests. You’ll need to have a ballpark figure regarding guests before you can choose a venue and make other decisions, such as where guests will stay. And if the majority of guests are coming from a certain area, such as your hometown, you may want to bring the wedding to them instead of asking them to come to you.

• Create a priorities list: Make a list of at least three things that are most important for each of you. It may be the ceremony location, the food or another factor. Knowing what is important can help you negotiate prices and understand what to look for when planning.

These are some of the considerations couples should make while planning their weddings. While it’s important to consider these factors and others, it’s also important that couples have fun when planning their nuptials.

From here to there There are a lot of steps from engagement to wedding and it can seem overwhelming, but by being open and honest, couples will get through it. (MS photo) MS – Recently engaged couples are often so swept up in the excitement surrounding their engagements that they can be forgiven for initially overlooking all the wedding planning that awaits them. Planning a wedding is no

small task, but many couples very much enjoy all the hard work that goes into making their special day a success.

It’s hard for newly engaged couples who have never planned a wedding to know what awaits them.

But the following tips can help make the wedding planning process go smoothly.

• Find your organization method: Organization is the key to pulling off the wedding of your dreams.

Whether your

Make the party fun for guests Continued from page 22 flip-flops so that avid dancers can rest their toes in between songs.

• If valet parking service is not included, ask for an add-on so that guests get door-to-door treatment.

• Always be considerate of special needs by seating guests in places where they’re most likely to be comfortable. Keep elderly guests away from speakers and near exits to facilitate trips to the bathroom.

• Be mindful of all food allergies or requirements and have accommodations set up in advance.

• Honour those people who could not be at the wedding in a special way, including deceased family and friends.

• Include information about how guests can request songs at the reception. Pass on the information to the band or DJ. • Encourage guests to get up and

dance by making it fun. Put song lyrics from different songs on each table. When that song is played, that table has to join you on the dance floor.

• Remember to thank everyone for coming and follow up those inperson sentiments with handwritten, personalized thank-you notes after the wedding.

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PAGE 24. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

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

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Card of thanks Notices WARWICK. The family of the late Sharon Warwick would like to thank everyone for their kindness and sympathy during the recent passing of our cherished daughter and sister.

Special thanks to our family, neighbours and friends for their visits, food and donations as well as phone calls and cards. Thank you to Dr. Bonnie Marshall and Dr. Sleeth and nurses at Wingham and District Hospital. Also thank you to Rev. Charmila Ireland for a lovely service. Thank you to Zoey and Thomas at Riverside Funeral Home for their assistance and guidance during this sad time. Thank you to the Brussels Legion for the delicious lunch following the funeral.

Everyone’s kindness and support is greatly appreciated. Sincerely – Edythe, Tom and Brian.

09-1p

Coming events

NOTICE Surplus of Property Notice is hereby given that the Corporation of the Township of North Huron has declared the following property to be surplus to its needs and will receive any and all written offers of purchase of the subject property. The property contains a 92.78 ft x 61.52 ft building and is located at:

273 Edward Street, Wingham Ontario, N0G 2W0 Plan 416 PT LOT 15 PT LOT 16 WITH 20’ ROW The Township of North Huron will receive all written offers for the subject property until May 1st, 2020 at 4:30 p.m.

Please contact the Municipal Office for more information.

Sean McGhee, Director of Public Works and Facilities Township of North Huron (519) 357-3550 Ex. 128

THE BBIA GENERAL MEETING will be held on March 5, 2020 at 8 a.m. at the Blyth and District Community Centre.

09-1

Dated at the Township of North Huron this 27th day of February

In memoriam JOSLING. In loving memory of Lloyd Josling who passed away March 1, 2007.

A ray of sunshine came and went, A beautiful treasure only lent, In God’s keeping quietly sleeps, This brother/uncle we loved but could not keep.

– Loved and remembered every day by your family.

09-1p

Card of thanks Land wanted DEMARAY. The family of the late Kaye Weidner wish to express their most heartfelt appreciation to everyone for the generous expressions of sympathy shown to us with her sudden passing. Special thanks to Joe and Deb, Rick, Jacquie and Dwayne. To the staff at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital on Christmas Eve; to the staff privileged with escorting Kaye to London in the heavy fog; to the staff at London Health Sciences Centre on Christmas morning; to John and Adam and staff at Mighton Funeral Home for their unmatched guidance, compassion and care in guiding us through our difficult time; to Reverend Colin Snyder for his words of comfort and support, to Ann Ferguson for her perfect tribute; to the pallbearers, each handpicked

by Kaye; to the Hanover OPP for their kindness and professionalism afforded to Kaye after her service; to the Hanover Legion for the excellent lunch; to all our friends in the park keeping an eye on Max and Copper; to everyone who sent prayers, stopped by, left messages, made donations, sent cards, flowers, food, etc., we are grateful. Kaye’s primary concern for everyone else’s wellbeing has been paid forward with the many acts of kindness from all she knew. Thank you all so much.

– Max Demaray and family. 09-1p --------------------------------------------

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 25.

Thompson presents local museum grants

Quite the boost Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson, left, presented grants to museums in both Huron and Bruce Counties last week. Thompson is seen here presenting a cheque for $63,226 to Huron County Librarian and Director of Cultural Services Beth Rumble. (Courtesy photo)

Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson celebrated Ontario Heritage Week (Feb. 17-23) by presenting cheques to two local museums totaling $135,036.

“We have a rich history here in Huron-Bruce that is worth preserving and protecting,” Thompson said in announcing that the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre is receiving $71,830 and the Huron County Museum & Historic Gaol will be getting $63,226.

“These two museums, and their staff, do an incredible job of not only preserving our history but also of presenting the amazing stories of our ancestors and settlers in the region,” Thompson said. “We are so fortunate to have these facilities.”

Through the Community Museum Operating Grant, 166 eligible community museums receive just over $4.8 million annually.

The grant provides operating funding to community museums that may fund staff salaries, museum maintenance, building and preserving collections, exhibitions

and educational programs there.

In addition, 176 heritage organizations receive a total of nearly $240,000 in funding through the Heritage Organization Development Grant. This grant provides annual operating funding to not-for-profit heritage organizations and historical societies, and supports community engagement activities such as exhibits, public programs, lecture series and walking tours.

“Community museums and heritage organizations support local tourism, community well-being and learning,” said Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries.

“They also contribute to a spectacular double bottom line — the financial bottom line of the province as well as the equally important bottom line of our cultural fabric and identity. Our financial support for heritage organizations and community museums helps ensure that current and future generations can continue to learn about our province’s rich history and culture.”

Letter to the Editor

Committee member writes in favour of Howson Dam THE EDITOR, I wonder sometimes, when we live in small communities like Wingham, Blyth and Belgrave, how the rumour train can stray so far from the truth.

However, it appears that some people do not give their due diligence and investigate the facts.

For example, quoting Neil Vincent who stated that the Howson Dam has been a non-issue for years, when in fact during his last term in office, the North Huron strategic plan was to have monies put aside yearly and repair the dam, if needed, in 2020.

(Zero dollars were put into that account.) Also a previous mayor, Don Carter, had earmarked $200,000 for repairs to the dam as needed

(which were never used). Either Vincent forgot these facts or ignored them. These facts could have easily been found through responsible journalism.

Sharon Chambers, former Chief Administrative Officer for North Huron, stated that it would cost $1 million to decommission the dam or $500,000 to repair it. Obviously she must have done some of her research on behalf of the municipality.

Interestingly enough, B.M. Ross and Associates, (engineers) stated in March, 2015 that they could remove the old worn concrete and apply new reinforced concrete for the piers and aprons for $458,200 plus HST. The firm had schematic diagrams for the

work that would be required. The firm stated that, “repairs do not lead to instability” and “all of the repairs detailed on the drawings will either be neutral to stability or improve stability.

On Jan. 26, 2020 B.M. Ross reiterated that the dam could still be repaired although there will be some inflation in the price and some deterioration of the structure, which is to be expected. Given the facelift, Mr. Ross felt that “the structure would last for many, many years.”

I have not seen or heard of any schematic plans for repairs to the dam from any other engineering firm.

I understand, with ever-tightening

budgets, some journalists might not be able to get out into the field and talk to any of the 59 people who recently sent in letters of support to have the dam repaired and there were only three letters from Wingham (two from the Wingham BIA and one from the chair of MVCA) to have the dam decommissioned. Rather than just talking to “the old boys club” journalists need to get out and see if there is more than one side to a story and give both sides.

Anyone who has followed the Howson Dam and Citizens Pond Committee over the last six years knows that the committee is ready and willing to raise

the money for the repairs to the Howson Dam, but, has never ever asked for municipal tax money.

Most good journalists would look into the high costs of decommissioning a dam before suggesting this avenue. As a North Huron community we need to work together. Blyth recently received $500,000 to upgrade its theatre. We all invested in that project and applaud them. Also there was money for walking trails, playground equipment and the hospital. This is what makes a community! Let the citizens committee continue to make “our community” the best it can be.

Rennie Alexander, Howson Dam & Citizens Pond Committee.

PAGE 26. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Majestic WI meets The Majestic Women’s Institute met with 11 members and eight guests present on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 1:30 p.m. at the Brussels Library.

Kathy Bridge opened the meeting with a reading, followed by the Institute Ode and Mary Stewart Collect and a short business meeting.

Books, bears and blankets were donated by Institute members and guests to the women’s shelter of Goderich and blankets were donated to Grey Fire Department.

Jean Boyd told jokes making all laugh. A silent auction was held to help raise money to cover operating costs to allow the group to continue to better the community. Lucy Hesse taught everyone how to make beeswax bowl covers; we are all looking for ways to save our planet from waste.

Kathy Bridge reminded everyone to look for local groups in need of help and do what you can. A light lunch was then provided by Bonnie Lindsay and Janet Haertel to close the meeting.

Obituaries The stare down The Wingham Ironmen bested the Kincardine Bulldogs 4-1 on Friday night to start the secondround Provincial Junior Hockey League playoff series between the two teams. The Ironmen then posted two more wins on Saturday and Sunday, resulting in a 3-0 lead in the best-ofseven series. (John Stephenson photo)

World Day of Prayer event set Peggy Aitchison volunteered to do the reading for the group. Rev. Ireland offered to find out if we are responsible for lunch one day during Holy Week, April 6-9.

The group is to do the lunch for Bill and Marjory Humphries’ celebration of life to be held on Saturday, May 2 at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Auditorium.

The Springtime Supper, Sunday, April 26 which is to be held at the BM&G Auditorium was also discussed. Supper will feature ham

and scalloped potatoes. Tickets are adults: $17, children six to 12: $7 and five and under, free. It was decided to have warmed bone-in hams along with the scalloped potatoes.

The next meeting is to be held at the home of Rev. Charmila Ireland on Tuesday, March 31 at 1:30 p.m.

Margaret Siertsema thanked Mary for hosting and handed out the Today magazines. Rev. Ireland moved that the meeting be adjourned.

DONALD STEWART EADIE Donald Stewart Eadie of Wingham passed away, surrounded by the love of his family at Braemar Nursing Home on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2020. He was 78.

Don was the loving husband of Marian (née Hoover) Eadie of Wingham and the cherished father of Kevin and Sarah Eadie, Waterloo; Steve Eadie, Mary Hill and Jennifer and Luke Roberts of the U.K. He was the devoted papa of McKenna, Keirnan, Aiden and Louisa and the brother and brother-in-law of Neil and Margaret Eadie, Charles Eadie, Marjorie and Brian Deyell, Mary Eadie, Linda Hoover, Murray Hoover and Sylvia and Ross Gibson.

Don will be missed by his many nieces, nephews, friends and extended family members. He was predeceased by his parents David and Helen (née Mulvey) Eadie, brother John “Mac” Eadie, nephew John Deyell, sister-in-law Rhoda Eadie and brother-in-law John Hoover.

Don wore many hats. He was a farmer for the majority of his life, farming in Turnberry Township where both he and Marian raised three beautiful children. He was

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FUNDING - Pg. 2

RESPONSE - Pg. 3

CONCERT - Pg. 6

Education Minister in Blyth to hand out grants

Morris-Turnberry Mayor calls for autonomy

Brussels Ministerial comes together for show

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Up and over There was plenty of fun and games over the weekend at the annual Blyth Lions Club snow volleyball tournament held on Saturday. (John Stephenson photo)

Citizen

The

The February meeting of the Melville Guild was held on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at the home of Mary Douma at 1:30 p.m.

“God’s Box of Chocolates” was the theme of the meeting. Mary opened the meeting with the poem, “Somebody”. The hymn, “Saviour, Teach Me Day by Day”, was sung.

Assorted Bible verses with the world “love” were read by the members present.

Members then chose a chocolate from a box and ate it to appreciate its flavour.

Mary then read a selection, “God’s Box of Chocolates”. Did you enjoy the chocolate that you just ate? Was the filling what you expected? Were you pleased, disappointed, sad… is it similar to your day? Each day holds surprises for us.

She told of friends from church visiting on Valentine’s Day. One friend presented the other with a box of chocolates and a vase of flowers.

She said that they were presented as a gift from God. Look at treats as being the same as each day wrapped in God’s love and perfection, or flip it to us being God’s box of chocolates. Some are sweet, some nutty and some are just a surprise.

Mary led the group in prayer, reminding us of God’s continuing love given daily.

Members were reminded that love is a verb and we are to use it daily so others can see love through your loving ways. God’s greatest gift of love was giving us His son. Love is listed 697 times in the Bible. Mary then had us fill in the blank letters left out of John 3:16. The word “Valentine” appeared before us.

“Jesus Loves Me”, was sung. The devotion was closed with the Mizpah Benediction. The roll call, “Where did you meet your husband?” was answered by eight members.

The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved as read on a motion by Margaret Siertsema, seconded by Alice Marks. The treasurer’s report was given.

World Day of Prayer is to be held at the United Church on Friday, March 6. Zimbabwe is featured this year. The theme is, “Rise, take up your mat and walk”.

involved with Turnberry Township Council, serving as a councillor and also reeve. Don was a part of the Howick Insurance Board for 27 years and a dearly loved member of the Belmore Choir. In 1997, Don went back to school and started his health business. He helped many people in the area through reflexology, deep tissue massage and electronic homeopathy.

A memorial service to celebrate Don’s life will be held on Sunday, April 5 at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Wingham with reception to follow.

The family gratefully declines flowers, however, if you wish to make a donation in memory of Don, donations to the St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church or the Alzheimer’s Society of Huron County would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

Online condolences may be left at www.mcburneyfuneralhome.com

$1.25

Volume 34 No. 49

Serving the communities of Blyth and Brussels and northern Huron County

GST included

Thursday, December 13, 2018

4-H Clubs awarded

White Christmas The snow was falling on Friday night as Clinton held the final Santa Claus parade of the Huron County season, bringing residents and visitors out to the town to help

celebrate the holiday season. One of the main attractions of the parade every year is the Clinton Pipe Band, seen here appealing to the ears of all in attendance. (Nick Vinnicombe photo)

The Huron County 4-H Leaders’ Association Awards Program was recently held at the Seaforth Agriplex, recognizing 4-H members for their efforts throughout the year.

COUNTY AWARDS Loretta Higgins won the Murray Cardiff Award for Top All-Round Member.

The Don Pullen Award for highest overall score in the county went to Evy Verschaeve. She also won the Dedication Award for dedication to the club. The Warden’s Novice Award for first year competitive member with the highest score went to Emily Datema.

The Ben Lobb Award for the junior member with the top essay went to Kayla Drennan.

Emily Franken won the Ontario Plowmen’s Association Award for outstanding agricultural 4-H member as well as the Longstanding Graduating Member Award. She also received her graduation seal.

The Citizen-Rural Voice Awards for press reporter book competition awards went to Dugald McIntosh (first) and Mercedes Prout (second).

The Huron County 4-H Leaders’ Association Award for club secretary book competition were awarded to Emily Bieman (first) and Kayla Drennan (second).

The winning team for the county Go for the Gold Competition was the South Huron Sheep Club Team which consisted of Amanda Bos, Rachel Gras, Grace Hallahan and Evy Verschaeve.

The Top Gate Sign Award for the Continued on page 12

Seaforth’s Fisher elected Huron East Deputy-Mayor

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Seaforth Councillor Bob Fisher is Huron East’s new deputy-mayor, besting two others who put their names forward at the inaugural meeting of Huron East Council on Dec. 4.

Fisher, Tuckersmith Councillor Ray Chartrand and Grey Councillor Alvin McLellan all let their names stand for the municipality’s secondin-command position. This came

after Huron East eliminated the atlarge deputy-mayor position, reducing the size of council from 12 members to 11 just ahead of October’s election.

It was Fisher who nominated Chartrand for the position.

Chartrand then paid the favour back by nominating Fisher. Former Deputy-Mayor Joe Steffler nominated McLellan for the position.

Fisher told his fellow councillors that he has lived in the community

for over 40 years. In addition, he has been a councillor for 12 years and spent nearly 40 years in business, all experience he felt would aid in being the deputy-mayor.

Fisher also listed a number of projects he’d like to see undertaken or continued both in Huron East and in Huron County.

In Huron East, Fisher said he wanted to see the municipality’s community centres better utilized and to promote a harmonious relationship between residents

of all of Huron East’s five wards.

At the county level, Fisher said he wanted to see a greater focus on tourism, saying that Huron County could easily be the Prince Edward County of southwestern Ontario. He also said that while the county’s accessibility advisory committee has done a lot of great work, there is still more to be done.

Fisher also said that, as someone who is legally blind, he also hoped that being named deputy-mayor would inspire others with disabilities

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saying that if they “get [their] ass off the couch and do something” like he has they can accomplish anything.

McLellan said that his decades of experience as a councillor and on numerous boards and committees would make him an ideal choice for the deputy-mayor position.

He said that being self-employed would ensure that he wouldn’t miss any meetings, adding that he hates to miss any council meetings.

He said he had been asked if he Continued on page 15

Contest opens December 12 Applications will be accepted until January 25th, 2019 at 4:30 pm Forms are available online or at the Township of North Huron office at 275 Josephine Street in Wingham Email: inittowinit@northhuron.ca or call the Project Co-ordinator at 519-441-7629.

IN IT TO WIN IT: brought to you by the Libro Prosperity Fund, Wingham BIA, North Huron Economic Development Committee, Huron County Economic Development and Community Futures Huron.

February winner of a 1 year subscription to The Citizen is Lucia & Jacques Marcoux, Brussels.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 27.

From the Minister’s Study

Why believe the Bible? Dow gives five reasons

By Ernest Dow, Exec. Pastor Huron Chapel EMC, Auburn If you were to be confined to a desert island for the rest of your life and were allowed to take only one book with you, which book would you choose? A lengthy classic novel? An encyclopedia? Or maybe, How to Build a Sailboat?

Had the famous itinerant preacher and founder of Methodism John Wesley been asked, we could likely guess what his answer would be. He said, “I want to know one thing, the way to heaven – how to land safe on that happy shore. God himself has condescended to teach the way: for this very end he came from heaven.

He hath written it down in a book. O give me that book! At any price give me the Book of God! I have it. Here is knowledge enough for me. Let me be homo unius libri [a man of one book].”

The Bible has for many decades been a bestseller, yet it has also been referred to as “the book we dust and trust”. David Nygren observed, “If all the neglected Bibles were dusted simultaneously, we would have a record dust storm, and the sun would go into eclipse for a whole week.”

But why bother with the Bible at all? How do we know the Bible is true? I see at least five reasons to trust the Bible. First, there’s the witness of the earliest eyewitnesses, the original apostles. When a police officer’s investigating an incident, who do they want to talk to most?

The eyewitnesses; those who were there and saw with their own eyes what happened.

The Apostle Peter insists, “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2Peter 1:16) Regarding prophecies of Scripture, he adds, “...Men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

Consider how the first eyewitnesses were martyred maintaining the factuality of what they proclaimed. If it were a conspiracy based on fiction, someone would have squealed!

“People don’t die for what they know to be a lie.”

Second, there’s the testimony of the church down through the ages.

Documents such as the Westminster Confession (1647) and our own denomination’s articles of faith use such terms as “inspired”, “infallible”, “entirely trustworthy”, “final authority”, “supreme source of truth for Christian belief”.

(EMCC.ca) Besides the corporate church, I’ve been impacted by the faith of my own family members. Between the ages of eight and 12, I received various versions of scripture from my parents, grandparents, the Gideons and my home church.

Today I have in my possession a very old, antique family Bible dating from about 1892 which belonged to my father’s grandfather. These tomes carry special emotional attachment for me, in that they are a witness to the reverence and respect some of my own relatives had for the Bible.

Third, there’s the evidence of archeology and scientific study.

Nicky Gumbel of Alpha fame does an excellent job in his little book Questions of Life showing how research has demonstrated the reliability of the New Testament compared to other well-accepted historic documents. There are over

5,000 Greek manuscripts alone.

Textual critics use these to get back to what was probably almost exactly the original version. Sir Frederick Kenyon, a leading scholar in this area, writes, “...the last foundation for any doubt that the Scriptures have come down to us substantially as they were written has now been removed. Both the authenticity and the general integrity of the books of the New Testament may be regarded as finally established.”

Some might object that minor variances in details bring into question the truthfulness of the accounts – such as, how many angels were actually at the empty tomb? – but criminologists would tell you such minor variances actually bolster the truthfulness of eyewitness accounts, because it shows the reports weren’t simply “copycat” accounts: a variety of

viewers were involved.

Fourth, consider the authority of Jesus Himself. What was the Master’s attitude toward scripture?

Jesus noted, “...the Scripture cannot be broken...” (Jn 10:35) and, while praying, “...Your word is truth.” (Jn 17:17) But even more remarkable is the way Jesus relies on scripture at crucial moments. In Matthew 4, He’s being tempted repeatedly by Satan.

How does He respond? By quoting memorized scripture. “It is written...It is also written...It is written...” (Mt 4:4,7,10) At key moments, when His earthly future is hanging by a thread, Jesus stakes His life upon the reliability of scripture. In Matthew 26, He’s being arrested, yet blocks an attempt by His followers to fend off the mob with a sword. Why? “‘Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more

The Regional Ministry of Hope These Anglican Churches Welcome You Rev. JoAnn Todd, Rector 519-357-7781 email: revjoann@hurontel.on.ca The­Regional­Ministry­of­ Hope

authenticating, i.e. scripture backs itself up. If that sounds a little circular in reasoning, it is, due to an unavoidable logical conundrum: if scripture is God’s word (written) and ultimately authoritative, what more authoritative thing could there be to back it up? That would make that other thing more authoritative than scripture.

Deep conviction about the Continued on page 29

BRUSSELS

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Worship leader, Mary Ross All are Welcome

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Worship & Sunday School - 11:00 am Coffee & Snacks following the service Fridays 11:30 am - 1:00 pm ~ Soup & More 2 - a free community meal held in Melville’s basement, and made possible by the Brussels churches working together.

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than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?” (Mt 26:53f) Apparently the Son of Man had a tremendous respect for scripture, relying on it from first to last in His earthly journey. He understood His life to be a fulfilment of scripture, as evidenced by His quoting Old Testament prophets such as Isaiah.

Fifth, there’s scripture’s own self-

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Tuesdays 7-9 pm Celebrate Recovery Wednesdays 9-11 am Drop-in Pickleball Wednesdays 6:30-8 pm Heirborn, 6:30-8 pm Youth Group huronchapel.com huronchapelkids.com huronchapelyouth.com 519-526-1131 ~ 119 John’s Ave., Auburn

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

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

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PAGE 28. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Review moves ahead

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

Honoured Sydney Pollock, centre, won the 2019 Provincial Constable Vu Pham Award for Youth Volunteerism through the Dave Mounsey Memorial Fund’s Order of the Good Samaritan Awards. Pollock has been raising money for good causes since she was five years old and supported cancer awareness. Since, she’s raised money for cystic fibrosis and created numerous fundraisers. Heather Pham, left, and Fund founder Patrick Armstrong made the presentation. (Photo submitted)

Huron County Council has brought on consulting firm KPMG to undertake its service delivery review.

Chief Administrative Officer Meighan Wark presented her recommendation to council at its Feb. 19 meeting, noting that she was not recommending the lowest bid, but rather the highest bid.

Wark told councillors that seven firms responded to the county’s request for proposals (RFP) and three were shortlisted for interviews based on the outcome of the scoring matrix. The bids were then reviewed by the county’s evaluation team, which consisted of Wark, Treasurer Michael Blumhagen, Director of Operations Steve Lund and Director of Planning Sandra Weber.

The team opted to interview three firms: Grant Thornton, MNP and KPMG at respective costs of $175,687, $198,000 and $204,950.

Wark said the committee members were unanimous in their support for KPMG, based on the proposed methodology of the review and the experience of the consultants.

She also told council that the quoted prices for the review currently include service to all nine lower-tier municipalities and could be adjusted based on which municipalities choose to participate.

The review is being funded through Modernization of Efficiency Funding that was received last year from the provincial government.

Wark also told councillors the review will have an “aggressive” schedule, beginning in March and concluding in June. She will act as project manager with support coming from Blumhagen, a project working group and two subcommittees.

Council approved Wark’s recommendation, opting to work with KPMG based on the committee’s comments of support.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 29.

Huron County now with 39 on ‘Sunshine List’

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen In 2019, Huron County paid 39 employees over $100,000 according to its annual Public Salary Disclosure Act report, casually known as the Sunshine List.

This represents a substantial increase over 2018, in which 30 employees were on the list, in step with previous years with 31 on the list in 2017 and 30 in 2016.

Chief Administrative Officer

Meighan Wark led the way as the county’s highest-paid employee, making $175,348.35 last year.

Next on the list is Director of Operations Steven Lund at $141,481.28, followed by Treasurer Michael Blumhagen at $141,460.93 and Director of Planning and Development Sandra Weber at $141,080.37. County Clerk Susan Cronin rounded out the top five at $134,160.

The rest of the list is as follows: Homes Administrator Connie

Townsend, $127,276.03; Director of Homes and Property Services Barbara Hall, $123,244.14; Director of Economic Development Cody Joudry, $122,670.02; County Librarian and Director of Cultural Services Beth Rumble, $122,613.24; Public Works Manager Mike Hausser, $122,366.09; Emergency Services Chief Jeff Horseman, $122,366.08; Health Unit Manager Tanya Sangster, $120,967.03; Senior Manager of Information Technology Abdul Rehman Mughal,

$120,545.72; Health Unit Manager Christina Taylor, $120,304.23; Registered Practical Nurse Kimberly Mostrey, $119,476.84; Director of Human Resources Lara Vanstone, $118,544.74; Deputy-Treasurer Veronica Stevenson, $118,303.05; Health Unit Manager Barb Leavitt, $117,933.18; Primary Care Paramedic Savannah Johnston, $117,604.05; Primary Care Paramedic David Ludwig, $117,199.95; Homes Administrator Angela Steadman, $116,815.83; Health Unit Manager Jean-Guy Albert, $116,044.69; Registered Nurse Renae Simpson, $111,123.50; Emergency Services Superintendent David Campbell, $110,605.48; Homes for the Aged Director of Care Angela Hartin-Riley, $107,770.50; Emergency Services Superintendent Mark Crawford, $107,348.16; Operations Commander Robert

Taylor, Information Technology Manager Kimberley Reid and Professional Standards Commander William Lewis, all at $107,089.51 each; Registered Nurse Melanie Eden, $106,472.35; Emergency Services Superintendent David Wagner, $105,841.35; Primary Care Paramedic Sean Gelber, $103,740.93; Homes for the Aged Director of Care Rachel Bernard, $103,635.57; Primary Care Paramedic James Rivera, $103,470.62; Primary Care Paramedic Douglas Allinson, $102,925.71; Technical Services Manager Jeff Kerslake, $102,760.50; Manager of Ontario Works and Children’s Services Cheryl Patience, $101,697.35; Human Resources Senior Manager Jane Anderson, $101,453.12; Primary Care Paramedic Amanda Van Dieten, $100,663.97.

The Bible is the book that reads us: Dow

A new leaf While Lianne Hoogenboom, right, began her path in Blyth as co-owner of Pianovations, which she still is, she is now working with Realty Executives Platinum in a new Blyth-based office situated in the Pianovations store on the village’s main street. Hoogenboom and fellow sales representative Jodi Snell, left, held a special open house on Saturday to welcome the community to their new space. (John Stephenson photo)

Have We Got Your Number?

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Continued from page 27 trustworthiness of the Bible comes in the reading of it, by faith, through the work of the Holy Spirit. We encounter it as God’s living word, speaking straight into our lives, kind of like the Holy Spirit standing behind us reading it aloud to us as the Author Himself. Reformation leader John Calvin wrote, “Our heavenly Father, revealing his majesty [in Scripture], lifts reverence for Scripture beyond the realm of controversy.”

In other words, as you read it, God Himself validates His word. After all, God’s word is not like our mere human word: “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

(Hebrews 4:12) The Apostle Paul describes it as, “...The word of God, which is at work in you who

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believe.” The Bible is the book that reads us.

Jesus concluded His famous Sermon on the Mount with a simple story of two builders whose houses were subjected to a terrific storm of wind and rain. The foolish man’s house fell with a great crash, because it was built on the sand, but the wise man’s withstood the storm because it was built on the rock.

Jesus likened the latter to the person who hears His words and puts them into practice.

When life’s storms come upon us, the truths and promises in the Bible can give great consolation and hope.

Billy Graham counseled, “Like Joseph storing up grain during the years of plenty to be used during the years of famine that lay ahead, may we store up the truths of God’s Word in our hearts as much as possible, so that we are prepared for whatever suffering we are called upon to endure.”

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PAGE 30. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Want to learn more about our exciting past?

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The Citizen, Feb. 10, 1999 The Citizen, Feb. 25, 2010

The Citizen, Feb. 4, 2010

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020. PAGE 31.

NH puts over $750k in reserves

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Stage presence Teeswater-based youth theatre company Studio 410 opened Frozen the Musical Junior at Blyth Memorial Hall on Feb. 22. The show runs to March 8. For more information, visit studio410.ca. (Photo submitted)

At its Feb. 18 meeting, North Huron Council, in preparation for its upcoming audit process, approved transferring funds to reserves for ongoing projects.

Additional revenue funding received throughout the year totalling $333,340.72 will be transferred to reserves. Those funds include the federal cannabis funding, the balance of the Emergency Services Training Centre sale proceeds, interest from various revenues and surpluses from various departments.

Expenses, including underspending and incomplete or ongoing projects, were also transferred, totalling $291,791.30.

Finally, some area-rated expenses, $120,087.98 for underspending and capital and increased or underspent revenue all for Wingham police contracts totalling $44,645.36 are set for transfer to reserves.

Director of Finance Donna White suggested that the latter amount be returned into the Westario reserve, a fund specifically for area-rated projects in Wingham generated from Wingham’s involvement in Westario

(compared to Blyth and East Wawanosh, which are serviced by Ontario Hydro).

Reeve Bernie Bailey suggested putting those funds into a general reserve for the municipality, saying that, now that Wingham doesn’t have a dedicated police service and the North Huron Wescast Community Complex is paid off, there aren’t many area-rated projects.

White said that was one way to consider the funds, but did say that the fund has been severely depleted by the two projects Bailey noted.

“There’s only about $26,000 left in there now,” she said. “We saved it

up… to pay off the complex.” That said, White encouraged council to discuss the issue.

“I suggest we should be looking at this at another meeting,” Bailey said, reinforcing that the municipality should be dealt with as a whole.

Deputy-Reeve Trevor Seip, however, suggested that the funds be kept separate until the contract with the Ontario Provincial Police was complete, at which point Wingham’s policing will default to standard protection like Blyth and East Wawanosh.

Council approved putting all the funds in respective reserves, and keeping the $44,645.36 in the Westario reserve.

Gravel, mowing tenders chosen

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron East Council approved its gravel tenders for 2020 at its Feb. 18 meeting.

In the north patrol, council accepted Blane Trucking’s bid of $3.30 per tonne to load, weigh, haul and spread 51,000 tonnes of gravel for a total of $168,300 before HST. Blane Trucking beat out three other bids to win the tender.

In the south patrol, Huron East only received one bid, which was from Jennison Construction Ltd. The company bid $6.50 per tonne to supply and crush 20,000 tonnes of gravel and $3.10 to weigh, load, haul and spread the same amount for a combined unit price of $9.60 per tonne and a total job price of $192,000.

Council approved both recommendations, which were already accounted for in the 2020 budget. *** At its Feb. 18 meeting, Huron East Council approved the bid of a numbered company associated with

McGregor Farms for roadside mowing in the municipality for the next three years at a cost of $156,000 before HST for the three years.

The McGregor Farms bid came in much lower than the other bid received from Yard Boys Ltd., which bid just under $95,000 for each of the three years for a total just under $300,000 for the entire contract before HST. McGregor Farms will be paid $50,000 for 2020, $52,000 for 2021 and $54,000 for 2022 at a consistent hourly rate of $100 for all three years.

In his report to council, Public Works Manager Barry Mills said the municipality’s plan to cut two rounds of grass in June and August, 14 feet for each cut, aligns with Huron County’s three-year rotating vegetation management plan. This is different from the municipality’s previous contracts, which asked that grass be cut twice in June and then to the fence line in September.

The money for grass cutting has already been included in Huron East’s 2020 budget, including $30,000 to pay for estimated

expenses connected to spraying as well. *** The Seaforth Business Improvement Area (BIA) notified Huron East Council of the BIA’s appointments for the coming year after holding its annual general meeting on Feb. 10.

The Chair will be Tracey Sills McKee and Maureen Agar will be the secretary.

Deputy-Mayor Bob Fisher will serve as the BIA’s council representative and directors will be Shelley McMillan, Brenda Campbell, Shannon Craig, Randy Nixon and Kelly Miller. *** Anna Wilson has been appointed to fill a vacancy on the Brussels, Morris and Grey Board of Recreation Management Committee.

Huron East Council approved the motion, ratifying Wilson’s appointment, at its Feb. 18 meeting.

Medal of the Maple Grace Caldwell, left, of the Blyth Scouts, was presented with the prestigious Medal of the Maple last week for her years of dedication and commitment to Scouting. The medal goes to a Scout who impress with their community service, Scouting participation and personal values. Longtime Blyth Scout leader Lavern Clark, right, made the presentation. (Photo submitted) STUDIO 410 PRESENTS:

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PAGE 32. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2020.

Budget talks persist with $1.4 mil. hole

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron East Council is facing some tough decisions with its 2020 budget, which sits with a shortfall of over $1.4 million even with an eight per cent increase to the general municipal levy.

Treasurer Paula Michiels presented the first draft of the municipality’s budget at council’s Feb. 18 meeting in what is the second of three likely very difficult budget years. In addition to ongoing labour pressures, increases to the police budget and decreasing provincial funding, Michiels said much of the municipality’s budget for 2020 and 2021 will be tied up in public works. This year alone, Huron East will have to pay nearly $1 million for its portion of the Seaforth main street reconstruction project, which will also take up a sizable portion of next year’s public works capital budget.

Michiels’ first draft of the budget included an eight per cent increase to the municipal tax levy. This comes after Huron East lost $163,600 in provincial funding and faces an increase of nearly $70,000 in policing costs. To cover those two amounts alone, council would have to increase the tax levy by five per cent.

Michiels said she recommended a slightly higher increase in order to help alleviate ongoing labour cost pressures.

The first draft of the budget also includes special debt reduction levies for the municipality’s three recreation centres. Implemented in recent years, the special levies are designed to help the centres pay down substantial deficits in the face of increasing hydro costs and declining usage. These levies are provided in addition to each centre’s normal operational levy.

The Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre began 2019 with a deficit of $37,692 and ended the year with a deficit of $95,985.

Huron East will be providing the centre with a deficit reduction levy of $28,839 and Michiels proposes that the centre will end 2020 with a deficit of $118,776.

The Seaforth and District Community Centre ended 2019 with a deficit of $159,694, nearly $30,000 more than at the beginning of 2019.

Michiels has allocated $20,442 to the centre, hoping it will end 2020 with a deficit of $215,770.

Meanwhile, the Vanastra

Recreation Centre, which is home to a daycare centre and pool and no ice surface, began 2019 with a balanced budget and ended the year with a surplus of just under $70,000. With the help of a $22,429 deficit reduction levy, Michiels hopes the centre will end 2020 again with a balanced budget.

After discussing departmental budgets like public works and the community’s fire departments, Mayor Bernie MacLellan told councillors they would have to make some very tough decisions in the coming weeks during budget deliberations. To bring in another $1 million for the levy, council would have to raise taxes a further 20 per cent, meaning the municipal tax levy would rise nearly 30 per cent. Even then, he said, council would have to transfer a further $500,000 from its reserves to balance the budget.

In an effort to free up some funds, Councillor Ray Chartrand suggested dropping the extension of Duke Street in Seaforth, which will cost the municipality nearly $425,000 this year. The road, which will provide a second access to the Seaforth hospital, has been tied into the development of the JL Retirement Living project, which has stalled in recent months.

Chartrand said that because the JL project is in a holding pattern, that road project might be a good way to save Huron East some money in 2020. Some councillors pushed back, however, saying that with the connecting link repairs scheduled for Highway 8 near the hospital, Duke Street would provide a convenient detour allowing access to the hospital.

Councillor John Lowe agreed with Chartrand, however, saying that if the project isn’t going ahead this year, there’s no reason to proceed with the extension of Duke Street.

MacLellan said he didn’t feel like Huron East’s budget woes would be long-term and that the one-off public works projects were really straining the budget. For that reason, MacLellan felt it would be a good year to dip into the municipality’s unrestricted reserves, which currently hold $2.8 million.

Council didn’t make any final decisions, but provided some feedback to Michiels’ first draft of the budget. She will present the second draft at council’s March 3 meeting in the hopes that the final draft of the budget will be up for discussion at the March 17 meeting.

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Snowbirds Bodies were flying in and out of courts on Saturday as the Blyth Lions Club held its annual snow volleyball tournament in honour of former Blyth residents John Bokhout and Blake Hesselwood, who died in an Alberta house fire years ago. Nine teams took in the action on a sunny day at Blyth Lions Park, raising money for community betterment. (John Stephenson photo)

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