The Citizen - Jan. 3, 2025

4 • Editorials 8 • Year in Review 11 • Climate 15 • Obituaries

The

THIS WEEK

Citizen

Huron County’s most trusted independent news source

Friday, January 3, 2025

$1.50 GST included

Volume 41 No. 1

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

Winter burial policy changed

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Finishing strong The U13 HL Huron Heat welcomed the Ilderton/Lucan Irish to the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre on Sunday for their final game before the

calendar year changes and the locals won by a score of 2-0.

Action will pick up again in the new year, as the local teams begin their push for the playoffs. (John Stephenson photo)

M-T retains status quo on memorial gates

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen Morris-Turnberry Council decided not to move forward with repairs to the memorial gates at the Turnberry Conservation Area. The decision was made during a regular meeting on Dec. 17, following a report from Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk Trevor Hallam.

Hallam presented a report on the gates, which commemorate veterans from Turnberry who served in the Canadian Forces.

While acknowledging the historical and memorial significance of the gates, Hallam emphasized that the gates were built on property owned by the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority (MVCA), not the municipality. As a result, the municipality has no obligation to maintain or repair them. The report says that “if any part of the structure is located on the municipal right of way, it should be regarded as an encroachment.”

“I don’t want to diminish the historical or memorial significance of the gates, but I think as a purely financial decision for the municipality, staff are recommending that we do nothing

because those gates were constructed on the agricultural park property, that is not municipal property,” Hallam said.

Hallam outlined several options available to council, including doing nothing, repairing the gates, restoring them or removing them entirely. The estimated cost for repairs ranged from $5,000 to $6,000 for minor masonry work to $20,000 for full restoration.

However, neither of the quotes included work on the foundations, which are believed to be in poor condition and would add to the final cost.

Despite the financial considerations, Hallam noted that there had been community support for the gates, with correspondence from the Huron County Historical Society and council members relaying support from local residents. “If that support extends to financial support, and there’s efforts from the community to raise funds to restore or reconstruct this, then I think the least costly option would be reconstruction as a, kind of, reenvisioned monument and using some of the original materials, if possible,” Hallam said.

Councillor Sharen Zinn

expressed concern about the safety of the gates, asking if the municipality would be liable if the structure were to fall and cause injury. Hallam was uncertain but suggested that Morris-Turnberry might be named in a lawsuit due to the gates’ location that encroaches the municipality’s road allowance.

Zinn also stressed the gates’ importance as the only veterans’ memorial in the municipality, but questioned whether spending $20,000 on restoration was justified. “I think this is our only memorial for veterans in our

municipality. I think it’s important to keep it… I think this is an important part of our municipality,” she said.

Mayor Jamie Heffer noted that the decision to take no action would allow council to explore other options in the future. “It gives us an opportunity to come up with something that would be appropriate; take the time to figure that out,” Heffer said.

With the municipality’s budget process for 2025 approaching, council agreed to table the issue, with no action taken on the gates.

At its final meeting of 2024, the ongoing controversy surrounding North Huron’s policy on winter burial fees was finally laid to rest.

Rather than charging the extra fee from Nov. 15 to Apr. 15 regardless of conditions, the fees will only be applied from the onset of winter weather until the spring thaw.

The issue was first brought to council’s attention at its Oct. 7 meeting, by a delegation formed by Dayna Deans of McBurney Funeral Home. Deans expressed dismay about changes to the township’s application of winter burial rates that had dramatically increased the cost of services for some grieving families. She explained to council that the flat winter burial fee was now being applied to all winter interments, including niche openings, instead of just ground interments. She also took umbrage with a new practice of strictly enforcing a Nov. 15 start date to the winter burial season, regardless of weather conditions, when it had previously been a discretionary matter. If no extra costs were incurred, no extra charges were applied.

In response to Deans’ remonstrations, council requested a follow-up report from staff. On Dec. 16, Director of Public Works Dax McAllister presented council with a report that outlined four possible options to address the problem, which predates his tenure as department head.

The first option would be to stick with the status quo. No changes would be made to the opening and closing dates for winter burial fees it would continue to be Nov. 15 to Continued on page 2

ACW debates new growth plan

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen At its Dec. 17 meeting, AshfieldColborne-Wawanosh (ACW) Council received a comprehensive report on a number of issues that will inform the township’s Growth and Servicing Master Plan. Lisa Courtney of B.M. Ross and Associates walked council through the compendious presentation, which includes an extensive

examination of every settlement area in the municipality, as well as all potential settlements, vacant lots and hazard zones. The factors that currently limit ACW’s potential future growth are also explored, as is the feasibility of expanding cross-border services with municipalities like Huron-Kinloss.

Courtney began by explaining how B.M. Ross conducted its broad review of ACW and identified its potential areas for growth and the

limitations that stand in its way.

“One of the components of this study was to look at the opportunities and constraints related specifically to ACW around residential growth and servicing.

This involved, first, a review of your existing land uses, historic growth patterns, and then, the existing infrastructure and current policy environments,” she said.

Areas like Port Albert, Saltford Continued on page 3

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

‘Wintery’ weather now part of policy

Continued from page 1 Apr. 15. However, McAllister did not recommend this option, as it did not address Deans’ concerns.

The second option would give the Director of Public Works the authority to use discretion as to when the winter burial rates would be charged, based on weather conditions. This would allow the possibility for burials all year round, depending on weather.

The third option would entail amending the dates on which the charging of winter burial rates would begin and end. The fourth option considered the possibility of raising the current regular ground interment rate for both residents and non-residents to accommodate winter burials. It would eliminate the Nov. 15 - Apr. 15 cemetery closures altogether, and allow burials year-round. McAllister warned that both these choices could lead to staff overtime within the Public Works Department, as they would still need to meet the minimum maintenance standards for winter operations and maintenance as roads operators.

Councillor Mitch Wright was looking for a solution that took a more nuanced approach to the different types of winter burials that Deans had brought to their attention. “I understand that we want to charge the extra cost that we incur when we’re doing winter burials,” he said. “It seems to me that, if you’re opening up a gravesite in the middle of January, that has significantly more cost associated with it than if you’re just opening up a niche in January… it seems like having one flat rate for all winter interments may not actually be a cost-recovery model.

If our intent is to recover costs, I would think interment of cremated remains in a niche would not be as expensive as winter burial.”

McAllister agreed that the cost of opening a niche is likely significantly lower than a ground interment, but added that there are still extra costs associated with winter niche interments. “We still need to maintain access in and out to the columbarium, or any other place, so we would still need to plow in and plow out, sand and salt - we would still need to do that winter maintenance to ensure that it’s safe for anyone that’s accessing the facility,” he explained.

Councillor Chris Palmer felt that the second option made the most sense. “To me, that would work. As long as you could work very hard at pushing it a little bit longer in the season, and a little bit earlier in the spring, then it would make some people happier… if we can show that we can make a bit of a movement, that might help the situation.”

McAllister had reservations about the practicalities of the second option, which relies on subjective human observation. “It comes down to a matter of opinion. Right now, we stick to the dates, and we don’t need to get an opinion based on whether it’s too dangerous or safe enough. Our dates are there.”

Councillor Anita van Hittersum pointed out that North Huron’s cemetery fee schedule is competitive with other, nearby municipalities, and that Deans is just one funeral director out of many and no others have complained to the township. “I

would like to propose to go with the status quo and keep it the way it is.”

Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer seconded the motion, but it was defeated 4-3.

Wright suggested the second option, but with a few tweaks. “I think, really, what we’re looking for is not so much a discretionary decision from the Director, but to define ‘closing’ as ‘when winter conditions arrive,’ and ‘opening’ as ‘when winter conditions end’… I think that would still provide the flexibility to provide burials cheaper when we don’t actually have winter conditions, but not put all the onus on the discretionary decision of our Director of Public Works. I think it was pretty clear this year when winter started - it was a Friday morning,” he said.

McAllister sought clarity as to how they would decide what “winter conditions” were each year, and Wright had a simple solution. “I think it’s all based around the extra cost. So, if you have to plow, if the ground is frozen, if it takes longer to dig - that’s what I think of as ‘winter conditions’… if you have to bring extra equipment in to perform a burial, then that would be ‘winter conditions.’”

Wright’s motion was brought to a vote, which carried 4-3.

Suspended in time In the lead-up to Christmas, the Wingham Ironmen lost to the Mount Forest Patriots by a score of 4-2, but then beat the Mitchell Hawks by a score of 5-2. Then, in their final game before the break, they were heading into the third period tied at two with the Fergus Whalers, but a problem with the ice during the second-intermission flood caused the suspension of the game, which will be completed at a later date. (John Stephenson photo)

NH amends Comm. Improvement Plan

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen On Monday, Dec. 16, North Huron Council voted to approve several proposed amendments to its Community Improvement Plan (CIP) in order to serve a wider range of people and businesses

throughout North Huron. A framework has been laid for five new potential grant programs, and the CIP will now cover the entirety of North Huron, instead of just Wingham, Blyth and Belgrave.

When North Huron staff began its review of the CIP to improve its effectiveness, members consulted

with property owners, local businesses and residents in order to ensure that any proposed CIP amendments reflect the needs of North Huron. In October, the township posted a CIP amendment survey on its website, which received feedback from 35 businesses and property owners

from all over North Huron. Staff also requested comment and review from the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH).

The original purpose of the CIP grant program was focused on facilitating improvements to the facades of local businesses. The Continued on page 13

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

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 3.

Development to remain in existing areas Continued from page 1 and The Bluffs are identified as active growth zones, and, in general, there is greater development pressure along the shore of Lake Huron than there is in the interior villages and hamlets.

However, there is one central issue that affects potential growth across the entirety of the township. “One of the challenges faced by ACW when it comes to growth, specifically, is that there is a lack of full municipal services in the township, meaning both water and wastewater,” Courtney told council.

When it comes to existing infrastructure, there are six drinking water systems currently operated by ACW. Four of those systems include both supply and distribution: Benmiller, Century Heights, Dungannon and Huron Sands. The other two - Amberley Beach and South of Lucknow - are distribution-only systems, with water supplied by Huron-Kinloss.

Additionally, Benmiller has a wastewater collection system that utilizes a privately-owned treatment system. “This means that the potential for significant residential and non-residential growth in ACW is fairly limited, with the exception of Benmiller,” Courtney explained.

“They do have water and wastewater servicing there, but most of your other areas have what we call ‘partial servicing’ - so you have a water system, and then everybody’s got septic systems. Or they’re fully individual systems, so everybody’s got their own well and their own septic system.”

Courtney concluded that not having a centralized water or wastewater system is one of the greatest inhibitors to growth in ACW. “This absence of municipal services means that, typically, you’re going to see just single, detached units. You’re not going to get that range and variety of development, and your development density is going to be relatively low.”

The report also recommends that, in many of the hamlets and smaller settlements of ACW, individual wells are still the most effective way to go. The lots are still large enough to accommodate such wells, and implementing a municipal water system in areas like Auburn and St. Helens would come along with some prohibitive costs.

She also presented even more detailed data on the reserve capacity of each settlement in ACW that relies on any kind of municipal water or wastewater systems.

“Reserve capacity” refers to the existing potential within a water or wastewater system that is available for future growth. It is calculated by subtracting the existing use and committed capacity of a system from its total capacity, based on the average daily use of a household in each settlement.

In Benmiller, the current water system can accommodate 16 additional residential units, while Century Heights has the reserve capacity for 103 additional units.

Dungannon has the capacity to add 238 units, and Huron Sands can handle 207 more residences before the system would need to increase capacity. Councillor Jennifer Miltenberg wanted to know how B.M. Ross came by such specific information. “We’ve been asked more than once if we could do a metering system, and it doesn’t save anyone money, by the cost of it, so how did you get the numbers for average use per day?” she

asked. “You’re getting that number from somewhere, right?” Courtney explained that they had gone to the company that manages ACW’s water testing, Veolia Water, to get data directly from their flow meters.

“It’s an average over the whole system,” she said.

Both Benmiller and Century Heights were singled out for having much higher-than-average water usage than any other settlement in ACW. Courtney recommended that these two water systems should be monitored for any potential leaks that might explain the excess expenditure of water, but DeputyMayor Bill Vanstone pointed out that the unusually high numbers in both Benmiller and Century Heights may have to do with a greater concentration of luxuries that use a lot of water, like swimming pools and automatic lawn watering systems.

The report covers many options for potential servicing changes that could affect the future growth of each settlement in ACW. It recommends monitoring both developments and the availability of purchasable lots in the future, especially in high-growth areas like Saltford. In Port Albert, individual, private and communal well services should remain, as they are the preferred form of servicing named in the Port Albert Servicing Master Plan.

It also states that, for lots in the lakeshore area, where the existing development is already serviced by private wells, individual wells could be used to support development, but it should be limited to minor infilling and rounding-out. For subdivisions and larger developments, communal water servicing in conjunction with communal sewage servicing should be the preferred form of servicing.

If a proposed development is freehold units, only municipal ownership of the communal

services will be permitted.

In terms of non-residential growth, the report suggests potential rezoning in ACW. The township lacks appropriately-zoned vacant lands for commercial or industrial development, so it is advising that the township should consider investigating opportunities to rezone vacant lands within existing settlement areas. Of

course, the lack of servicing may limit the types of future commercial and industrial development. The report recommends updating the servicing agreement with HuronKinloss for assured capacity for Amberley and South of Lucknow if future growth is desired in those areas.The South of Lucknow settlement area may also have potential for future non-residential

development lands if municipal services from Huron-Kinloss can be utilized.

Overall, B.M. Ross has concluded that it is a logical and economical strategy to allow development within existing service and settlement areas, and that ACW should consider limiting future development to areas where communal servicing is feasible.

Start ’em young The U6 and U7 Burgundy and White Blyth Brussels Crusaders teams were all in action on Saturday at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre. The former played the Mitchell Meteors, while the latter played a pair of Mid-Huron Huskies teams. No scores were kept, of course - it was all for fun. (John Stephenson photo)

A New Year’s Resolution (Mathew Henry) "My times are in Your hand!" Psalm 31:15 Firmly believing that my times are in God's hand, I here submit myself and all my affairs for the ensuing year, to the wise and gracious disposal of God's divine providence. Whether God appoints for me.... health or sickness, peace or trouble, comforts or crosses, life or death may His holy will be done!

Entertainment & Lo ocal Events

Yoour Com mmunity…

Yoour Faamily… amily Yoour Intterests…

Yoour H Home…

Yoour World… o It’s All a Part P of Your o Local Neewspaper!

All my time, strength, and service, I devote to the honor of the Lord Jesus and even my common actions. It is my earnest expectation, hope, and desire, my constant aim and endeavor --that Jesus Christ may be magnified in me.

Family y Fun Features

In everything I have to do my entire dependence is upon Jesus Christ for strength. And whatever I do in word or deed, I desire to do all in His name, to make Him my Alpha and Omega. I have all from Him and I would use all for Him. If this should prove a year of affliction, a sorrowful year to me - I will fetch all my supports and comforts from the Lord Jesus and stay myself upon Him, His everlasting consolations, and the good hope I have in Him through grace.

And if it should be my dying year — then my times are in the hand of the Lord Jesus. And with a humble reliance upon His mediation, I would venture into the eternal world looking for the blessed hope. Dying as well as living Jesus Christ will, I trust, be gain and advantage to me.

In-Depth In Depth Local Reporting g

0 The Citizen Citiz zen only $5000 Add the E-edition for only $1000 more One year subscrip ption to

Enclosed is $50.00 for a 1-year subscription Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Postal Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

To

Oh, that the grace of God may be sufficient for me, to keep me always a humble sense of my own unworthiness, weakness, folly, and infirmity together with a humble dependence upon the Lord Jesus Christ for both righteousness and strength.

A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church Listowel, ON 519-291-3887

Email address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Start your subscription today by phoning 519-523-4792 or online at huroncitizen.ca or mail cheque made payable to

NORTH HURON PUBLISHING INC. to: P.O. Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0

PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Editorials & Opinions

Founding Publisher: Keith Roulston Publisher & President: Deb Sholdice • Editor: Shawn Loughlin Reporter: Scott Stephenson • Photographer: John Stephenson Advertising Sales: Brenda Nyveld

The Citizen P.O. Box 429, BLYTH, Ont. N0M 1H0 Ph. 519-523-4792 Fax 519-523-9140 E-mail info@northhuron.on.ca Website www.huroncitizen.ca

The Citizen is published 51 times a year in Blyth, Ontario by North Huron Publishing Company Inc. Subscriptions are payable in advance at a rate of $50.00/year ($47.62 + $2.38 G.S.T.) in Canada; $190.00/year in U.S.A. Advertising is accepted on the condition that in the event of a typographical error, only that portion of the advertisement will be credited.

Advertising Deadlines: Tues. 2 p.m.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40050141 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO CIRCULATION DEPT. PO BOX 429 BLYTH ON N0M 1H0 email: info@northhuron.on.ca

Member CCNA

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

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

Pushing back In an era when major companies like Walmart, John Deere, Ford and others are scrapping or reducing their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies, some companies are maintaining or enhancing their efforts. Companies are scrutinizing their DEI programs, but a large majority found “unanimous support for maintaining, if not intensifying, DEI efforts into 2024, with 63 per cent actively seeking to further diversify their workforce.” Many of these companies are maintaining their efforts because it works in an increasingly competitive job market and makes good financial sense to make your workplace as inviting as possible to a broad spectrum, attracting the best and brightest.

While some companies are quietly going about it, so as not to attract attention from the conservative naysayers who believe that “woke” companies have gone too far, or that inclusionary programs are no longer needed, some companies are boldly pushing back.

Costco, long known as a progressive employer that pays some of the highest wages in retail, has shot back at a conservative think tank.

Costco’s board unanimously recommended that the shareholders vote down a National Center for Public Policy Research proposal that would have the company evaluate and issue a report on the financial risks of DEI policies. Not only does Costco implement DEI around its human resources policies, but it actively seeks out small and diverse suppliers to ensure that their customers have original and creative merchandise.

Costco and other savvy business managers recognize that their workforce and supply chain must reflect an increasingly diverse world in which customers want to see themselves reflected. – DS

Breath of fresh air?

It’s unlikely that 2024 will make any “golden age” lists when the History TikTok is danced, especially for someone like Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, but, perhaps, it was a breather in between two stretches of tough times. Maybe, just maybe, it’s the eye of the storm.

From the spring of 2020 until more recently than you might think, the world was in the throes of the deadly, disruptive COVID-19 pandemic. Death, illness, misery, lockdowns, cancellations, protests and more were the stories of the day for years as the world’s leaders navigated a path they’d never walked before. For many, 2024 was the first year that things truly returned to normal.

Now, with Donald Trump returning to the White House later this month and several other major democracies (including ours) being challenged by right-wing parties with plenty of steam behind them, this year may be one of upheaval and extreme change. This, in addition to two major wars slogging along with no end in sight.

In retrospect, though we may not have known it at the time, 2024 may have been a year in which we were able to catch our collective breath, move on from the trauma of the pandemic and settle into the closest thing to a pre-2020 existence that we’ve known in five years.

After years of unprecedented times, humanity was left yearning for the precedented. Last year may have snuck it in, right under our noses. – SL

A Canadian Canada Much has been (and continues to be) made about returning U.S. President Donald Trump’s fixation on Canada in recent weeks. He’s taken to calling Prime Minister Justin Trudeau the “Governor” of the “Great State of Canada”, which has led to everything from some shrugging it off as a joke to others fearing war with our neighbours.

This has led some to take a strange path to prove their patriotism that is, in fact, not patriotic at all. They’re agreeing with someone who, jokingly or not, is talking about annexing our great country. But, because their “F— Trudeau” flag flies proudly, Trump now seems more Canadian than Trudeau (or any other left-leaning politician) because Trump hates and persecutes all of the same people that these folks do.

Take Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who has become a darling of Fox News in the U.S., as she agrees with Trump on many of the issues he’s raised and will attend his inauguration, even as these threats of tariffs and annexation loom. But, hey, at least she’s not agreeing with Trudeau, right? One wonders who could register lower on the approval scale than Trudeau with some of these people. The list is not very long.

Loving your country and its people used to be a pretty straightforward concept. And yet, as racist nationalism and creeping historical parallels become the norm and the world’s democracies are being disrupted by right-wing groups and ultra rich power brokers like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos sticking their noses where they don’t belong, people are becoming more beholden to a movement than they are to a country. All the while, they are proclaiming a {your country here}-first attitude that, in many ways, serves as a thin veneer over its true face.

So, the next time you think about what’s good for Canada, look within its borders. It’s Canadians who have Canada’s best interests at heart. Or at least that’s the way it used to be; back in a simpler time. – SL

Looking Back Through the Years January 7, 1960 The Brussels Midgets defeated the Stone School boys in Belgrave on Tuesday, Jan. 5, by a score of 62.

Terry Johnston scored three goals, while Larry Duncan, Neil Gowing and John Rock each added one goal.

Congratulations were extended to the Brussels boys. Fans were encouraged to support the home team when they faced Ripley on Friday evening at the Brussels arena. The game promised to be exciting, as Brussels had previously defeated Ripley 8-7 in Ripley.

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Bryans celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on Dec. 29 with a family dinner at Danny’s Restaurant in Wingham. Attending the dinner were Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Bryans and family of London; Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Bryans of Mitchell; Mr. and Mrs. John Bryans and family of Brussels; and Mr. J. Harvey Bryans and Mrs. James Bryans of Brussels.

The Bryans had farmed on the 8th Concession of Morris Township until they moved to Brussels in 1963.

The Horticultural Society wished to express their appreciation to the residents of Brussels for decorating their homes and businesses so beautifully for the Christmas season.

There were many lovely displays that gave the town the atmosphere of the Christmas spirit, and everyone deserved “honourable mention,” both large and small.

The main street, with Santa and his reindeer, the light standards adorned with tiny Christmas trees, lights, and candy canes, as well as the Christmas tree, made it a

pleasure to drive through Brussels.

January 2, 1980 William Terryberry of Brussels was one of three men charged with counts of forgery and uttering forged documents in connection with the export of dairy cattle to Mexico.

Terryberry and Calvin Matheson of Atwood were charged in Stratford earlier that month and were scheduled to appear in Perth County court on Jan. 28 to set a trial date. Matheson faced 29 counts of forgery and uttering forged documents, while Terryberry faced 28 counts.

A third man, Murray Gibson of R.R. 1, Wilsonville, was also charged on Tuesday with four counts of forgery and five counts of uttering forged documents. He was set to appear in Norfolk County court on Jan. 30 to set a trial date.

More vandalism occurred in Brussels on Dec. 21, when the front window of Hilts Food Market was smashed. Floyd Hilts, who lived in the apartment above the store, said he heard the window shatter but, by the time he got downstairs, the vandals were gone.

Police estimated the damage at approximately $250 and were searching for an orange Chrysler vehicle.

On Thursday afternoon, Murray Cardiff, a 45-year-old farmer from RR1, Ethel, announced his decision to run for the Progressive Conservative Party nomination for the riding of Huron-Bruce.

Cardiff had previously been elected as the chairman of the Ontario Bean Producers’ Marketing Board, a position he held in 1979.

January 4, 1995 Murray and Shelley Ducharme of

RR3, Brussels, were proud firsttime parents of Tilynn, the area’s New Year’s baby.

Blyth firefighters battled high winds while extinguishing a fire at the implement shed on the Stephen Webster farm, just north of Blyth on Hwy. 4, on the afternoon of Dec. 30. The fire was suspected to have been caused by an overheated wood stove.

Morris Township Council held three December meetings to inaugurate the new council and address much of the 1994 business before the end of the year.

Reeve Clem McLellan welcomed the new council on Dec. 1 and outlined his priorities for the upcoming term, including a natural gas pipeline, the use of abandoned CNR land and cemetery upkeep.

January 7, 2010 For the first time, The Citizen had two nominees for Junior Citizen of the Year awards from its readership area.

Brianne Wheeler, from Brussels, and Teaghan Coultes, from East Wawanosh were among the 130 entries this year. Twelve winners would be selected, with the announcement on Jan. 22.

The Huron OPP brought in the New Year without any serious incidents.

They responded to several Liquor Licence Act violations throughout the night, but there were no impaired drivers charged and no serious collisions.

With numerous Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) checkpoints set up across the county, it appeared that most people made appropriate arrangements to get home safely after a night of partying that ushered in the new year.

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 5.

Other Views

We must pay for good medical care

B

ack before Christmas, there was an interesting news item that the number of family physicians had increased by only one per cent since 2021, down from three per cent since 2013.

At the same time, as our population grew, fewer people had a regular family physician.

What’s more, older people, like me, the earliest fringe of the baby boom, need more care, taking up more time of those physicians we do have.

It brings back memories of small-town medicine from when I recently reread a book by my childhood doctor William Victor Johnston. A native of West Wawanosh, Dr. Johnston became a doctor in Lucknow a century ago in 1924, before becoming the first head of the College of Family Medicine of Canada. When he retired, he returned to Lucknow when I was a young man.

In his book, Before the Age of Miracles, Dr. Johnston talks about the doctors who helped serve rural communities. There were other doctors in Lucknow. There was even a doctor in Dungannon. All this at a time when few people had more than a Grade 8 diploma.

I can point out large houses in Blyth and Brussels that were built by doctors years ago, before we ever had medicare. Blyth, today, has no resident doctor. In Brussels, they built a medical clinic to attract a doctor because they no longer had one living in the community.

In those days before medicare, doctors had to be dedicated. The doctor who succeeded Dr. Johnson plunged through deep snow up the lane at our farm home to visit me when I was a child and suffered rheumatic fever, because my family couldn’t afford to send me to hospital in the days before medicare.

One of the realities of our modern world is that doctors expect a better work/life balance

Keith Roulston

From the cluttered desk today. In small towns they still have to put in their time at hospitals but, in general, they don’t need to be on call 24 hours a day as they did before medicare.

In fact, it’s hard to even compare medicine these days. More doctors specialize now, being surgeons or anesthesiologists or cardiologists or any one of a wide range of medical specialties.

But part of the problem is that, in order to rein in the cost of medicine, governments have restricted the number of people who qualify for medical school. I have a niece who lives in Australia because, despite her high marks, she couldn’t qualify in Ontario to study to be a physiotherapist. A friend’s daughter trained as a doctor in Australia and only recently returned home after her marriage broke up.

Meanwhile, to try to make up for the shortage, Ontario is permitting 100 more internationally-trained family physicians to practise here in a rural or northern community in 2025. How often have you needed medical care recently and dealt with someone with an accent you struggled to understand?

We should be grateful to these professionals who want to come to Canada, but we also need to make it easier for our own doctors and nurses to get training. The problem is how to meet the needs of our citizens without the increase in costs becoming too burdensome.

Medicare changed living in Canada for the better. I recently heard the host of a U.S. news show mention she had to pay nearly $100,000 for some relatively minor procedure. We Canadians don’t have those expenses here. But when I was growing up, before medicare, my parents had to think twice before going to the doctor for treatment. That probably wasn’t a wise thing to do but, on the other hand, we have situations today where so many people go to emergency wards in the cities and wait for hours for service, in a few cases, costing them their lives.

We want the impossible from our medical care system. We want the best of care, quickly, but we also want our governments to reduce taxes. We are ignorant of what it was like when we couldn’t afford to go to the doctor.

We must get prompt medical care. We must have enough family doctors so that everyone has access to prompt care. We need to get our medical system back on the rails, even if it means our taxes need to go up. Otherwise, we face the American system, in which some people have medical insurance through their employer but even this does not mean they have coverage, as insurance companies find ways to wiggle out of paying. And then there are the uninsured who simply can’t afford to be ill.

I’m old enough to have lived under both systems, being uninsured as a youth until medicare came along as I became an adult. I know which I prefer.

I’m so fortunate to live in a country that provides medicare, as countries in Europe also do. If it means taxes must be higher, then so be it. I’ll gladly pay a few dollars more every year if it means good coverage that doesn’t test my ability to pay.

Fools be talking nonsense. Not us, though

C

an you believe it? Jan. 3, 2025, already. And what’s the first thing we have to do? Address the lies that have been floating around about The Chaff. Yes, there are whispers, rumours and outright falsehoods being spread by our worst enemies, claiming that we pre-write The Chaff. Pre-write it! As if we’d sit around in some lazy, far-off land crafting columns well in advance and letting the news get stale!

Ridiculous. Absolutely ridiculous.

Let’s get one thing straight, folks: The Chaff is always written as close to the deadline as possible - always. We’re on the ground, in the moment, reporting on the very latest developments that shape our community. We’re plugged in. We’re tuned in. We’re right here, giving you the freshest, most immediate coverage of everything that matters. We don’t sit idly by, waiting for things to unfold at some leisurely pace. No, we’re constantly engaged, processing and responding to every little thing that’s happening around us. From the tiniest whisper in the town hall to the biggest event in the community, we’re on it. We’re getting it out there. So when you hear these ridiculous claims that we’re sitting in some distant past, writing about things that happened forever ago, just know that it’s all lies. Vicious, unfounded lies spread by those who can’t keep up. They just can’t keep up with us. We are the fastest news machine in the business, always right there, always current. If we had a freshly-minted Canadian penny for every time someone tried to spread these deceitful little rumours, we’d have enough to pay for a year’s worth of real hitharding reporting.

Take Blyth’s own Jess Miners-Bromley, for instance. Miners-Bromley, with her flourdusted apron, is a local hero. She’s making

Scott Stephenson The Chaff waves not just in Blyth, but all over the place, thanks to her participation in The Greatest Baker competition. We’re talking about how she’s just moved on to the next round. And this is right now. It’s fresh, it’s happening, and we’re on it. We’re not just talking about the past. Miners-Bromley isn’t sitting back thinking about what might have been. She’s making a name for herself, advancing to the next stage, and we’re here, cheering her on every step of the way. Her journey to the crown is only just beginning and we’re absolutely sure she’ll win it all. As things unfold in real-time, we’ll be here to let you know how it’s all going. So while others might suggest that The Chaff only reports on what’s happened in the past, we know one thing for sure: Miners-Bromley is the future of baking.

And let’s talk about Steve Coulter. The man, the myth, the legend. Coulter isn’t the type of guy who just steps away. He’s a fixture, a cornerstone of the farm equipment business. And the best part? Coulter’s still out there, day in and day out, doing what he does best. No retirement here, folks. He’s not about to hang up his boots and increase his time on the golf course. We’re telling you this now, as it happens. Coulter will be at McGavin’s for as long as he feels like it and that means he’s going to be working there for a very, very long time.

Meanwhile, in North Huron, we’ve been

keeping a close eye on the efforts of Gregg Furtney, the current Director of Public Works.

Furtney has been working hard to keep the Wingham Town Hall Theatre under control.

There’s been a lot of talk about changing the use of the theatre, but Furtney is stepping in and doing everything he can to ensure that the building remains a space for all the wrong reasons. One thing we know for sure is that Furtney will never become the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Minto.

Never! We’re as sure of that as we are sure that Dwayne Evans will always be North Huron’s CAO, forever!

But let’s circle back to those pesky lies our enemies have been spreading. To those who claim that we pre-write The Chaff, we say this: stop it. The Chaff is as current and as fresh as the morning dew on this summer’s day. We’re on top of it. Right here, right now.

We are out here, keeping pace with the world, following the headlines as they happen. And those who say otherwise? They simply don’t have the stamina to keep up with the current events as we do. They don’t understand the work it takes to stay in the moment and report the facts as they happen.

So, to the doubters, the gossipers and the naysayers who think they’ve figured us out: take a seat. The Chaff is alive and well, always in the moment, and we’re not going anywhere. So while you’re reading this, just know that we’re on top of it. We’re always on top of it. And we’ll keep giving you the best, freshest, most relevant news around.

So, until next week, keep your eyes peeled for all the up-to-the-minute news that only The Chaff can bring you. And don’t believe the lies. We’re always right here, with you, in the now.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to each and every one of you!

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

If you’ve got the time...

J

ust last week, I was speaking with Scott about the writing process and how, at least for me, it can almost be detrimental to have too much time to work on a project. As you return, return again and return a third time to graze on this sentence or that turn of phrase, it can get too nitpicky for life and sometimes you just have to call it a day.

As I sit here late in the day, unsure of what to write in my first column of a new year, I thought about challenging myself. A neighbour once asked me how long it takes me to write a column. I said it depends, but I could usually bang one out in an hour, if necessary. Well, let’s put that to the test. There was, I believe, a “Speed Chaff” once upon a time that challenge readers to read it as quickly as they could.

What about speed writing? Clock starts now.

The topic I decided to tackle is the ability to tune things out. I have marvelled, since I first became a parent, at my ability to tune things out, when necessary. Now, I know what you’re thinking: what an awful father, and you’d be right. However, I’m more talking about the ability to tune things out that children like, but that melt the average adult brain.

I was talking to my father-in-law about it the other night as my daughter asked to listen to music from Snow White in the truck on the way to her Christmas concert. He said he didn’t mind and Jess and I opined that he’s had lots of practice - first with his own two girls and now with grandchildren - to tune out music he doesn’t particularly want to listen to and just zone out, living his own life.

That was one of those times. Then the topic of “Baby Shark”, the popular children’s song and earworm to end all earworms, came up. He said that he can’t stand it and it’s impossible for him to tune that one out. I told him that there’s a reason it’s become the go-to song for people to play in areas where they don’t want people to loiter for one reason or another, whether it be a mall after hours or a bridge that kids like to gather under for drinks and grabass. I, mostly, have been able to tune out the many, many times I’ve had to listen to “Baby Shark” in the past few years. I don’t know what that says about me, but it says something.

I have also been able to do this with a lot of stuff that the kids want to watch. There are episodes of, say, Peppa Pig or Cocomelon that I have seen plenty of times and they don’t bother me because I just phase out while the kids enjoy them. This is a skill that I honed, I think, during my daughter’s phase of being obsessed with figure skating. (That phase is ongoing, by the way, we know all the players, we know all the songs, all the routines and all of the scandals. We know it all.)

So, whether it was the Olympics from a few years ago or the local Canadian championships of recent months, we have watched the same skaters do the same routines and the commentary team make the same jokes over and over and over again. We even know most of the commercials off by heart.

Having said all of this, I now get how a parent can just calmly stand in a store and go about their day as their child melts down they’ve achieved next-level tune-out mode.

This ability, impressive as it is, has been handed down to my daughter, at least, though I’m sure my son will pick it up eventually as well. She is fantastic at tuning people out. Her parents usually bear the brunt of this skill, but I’m sure it has been applied to others as well.

If she’s watching TV or something on an iPad that she’s really into, she might as well be on another planet. Not happy to pass that down.

Nine minutes, one second. Not bad at all.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Good times, losses mark Brussels’ year A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

This and that A staple of the holidays in the village, Brussels United Church held its annual Christmas bake sale just before everyone was set to break for the holidays, bringing out those looking for a bit of a baking break. (John Stephenson photo)

At the Branch

The Branch was busy in 2024

By Jo-Ann McDonald We hope everyone had a great Christmas and a Happy New Year and is ready for a great 2025. New Year’s wishes are made and many are broken. How will you do with yours?

The year of 2024 seemed to fly by. The Brussels Legion has been kept busy throughout the year. We do many fundraising fish fry dinners. They benefit the group that hires us, as well as the Branch.

Over the course of 2024, the hardworking group from the Branch did 14 fries across the county and fed 4,500 folks. We were busy. The monies raised go to the upkeep of the Branch and to the building fund for the planned kitchen renovation, in addition to donations to community groups.

During the month of January, the Branch continued on with the Catch the Ace draw. The catering group started hosting the Brussels ladies birthday group monthly for a noon meal plus three other catering events. New windows were installed on the south side of the auditorium and President Jamie Mitchell and wife Julena welcomed

a daughter, Corah, to join Ben in their family.

The month of February had the members of the Branch participate in Branch darts and in Zone Dart competition in Lucknow. The Branch Catch the Ace draw had the Ace of Spades found by Karen Glousher on week 28, winning the $10,137 jackpot.

March was a busy month at the Brussels Legion. We were very blessed to receive a generous donation after the closing of the St. John’s Anglican Church to be put toward the future renovation of the Legion kitchen. The annual public speaking competition was held with nine speakers from North Woods Elementary School. The Branch also hosted zone public speaking this month.

We were saddened to hear of the passing of Comrade Grace Procter.

The Branch made a donation to the Junior Broomball League and a new Catch the Ace draw began.

Good Friday is always the first fish fry of the year for the Branch and this year it was on March 29.

There were six catering events.

April means spring and that’s

This and that The U13 B Huron Heat beat the South Huron Sabres on Sunday, Dec. 29 at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre by a score of 2-0.

(John Stephenson photo)

when the fish fry dinners really begin. It also means elections for the executive of the Legion. There are 16 committee chairs within the Legion. Some of the committees, such as the fish fry and catering committees, require help from the membership during the year. It is always great to have a helper for the chair, just in case it is needed and they know what needs to be done.

Consider volunteering for a committee.

Provincial senior darts were held in Port Stanley and four Comrades represented the Branch. A donation was made to the Walton Brewers to attend the International Softball Congress tournament in Surrey, British Columbia. There were two fish fry dinners and four catering events.

April showers bring May flowers and the new executive was installed at the Branch. The Catch the Ace draw continued and there were only two catering events. The base for the new electronic sign was installed and the members of the Brussels Cadet Corp 2967 did some community service by cleaning up Continued on page 20

As we stare at a new calendar, and now a new year, the mind moves from past events to those in the future. The mind wanders with future, past and present thoughts, probably back and forth several times as events and plans mix and mingle. Ah, good memories and endless possibilities.

I jot things down in various places when I see words that connect with me. The one this morning as I perused my 2024 daybook is, ”Don’t look back too long. That’s not the way you’re going.” Good advice whether you’re thinking or driving.

Flipping through the months of 2024, we review, remember and start planning. It’s probably the nurse in me that looks ahead, determines the big stuff coming, considers the possibilities and leaves the fine details until needed.

Each day brings new people and events that interfere with life, but make life so very interesting.

Again, “we make plans and God laughs.”

We take life for granted and forget how fortunate we are until things go sour. Reviewing the months, I see many blessings.

Appointments to healthcare professionals are noted, many at no cost at the time. Appointments noted to see that my eyes and ears and teeth are still doing their job.

Appointments for my body functions are reviewed. As we age, the number of body parts that we operate is quite impressive and when we notice them, it usually means things are not at top function. Awareness of the body comes with ill health and age, and can be quite impressive. We are blessed in our area to have nurse practitioner, doctors and specialists available to give us advice and assistance for our health concerns. I wonder what the cost would be if I

lived south of the border.

Social events are remembered and we smile. The Bluevale reunion was special, as was the reveal of the new and improved Brussels Morris and Grey Community Centre.

Maitland Valley Foundation events were also important dates.

Wingham High School and St. Joseph’s School of Nursing gatherings were noted with a smile.

Life changes are noted in my book. Greg and Jordan engaged, Robyn finished the school portion of her nursing degree, Jill enrolled in environmental studies at University of Guelph. Ella, Sloan, Hark and Weston keeping the public school system alert.

New life and then new thoughts arrive when you see the dates of death for several friends and family. Life is a circle starting with our first breath and ending with the last. The details in between are what really matter. These details are often the interaction with others that make memories to cherish. As I reviewed our losses, Mitch Albom nailed it, “Death ends a life, not a relationship.” Oh so true as the memories are alive in their stories.

So here’s to 2025, may hope, peace, joy and love come your way.

To all The Citizen friends, “Do the best you can until you know better.

Then when you know better, do better.” The words of Maja Angelou.

Bye now. Betty GW

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 7.

Meier to mark 100th birthday later this month

Doing some good ’Twas the week before Christmas and the students at Hullett Central Public School collected more than 15 large boxes of food and other items for the North Huron Community Food Share and the Huron County Women’s Shelter. Back row, from left: Emma Howson, Macy Smith, Lucia Dale, Bailey Smith, Jordan Shannon, Isla de Boer, Gavriella Garritty and Reese deBoer. Front row, from left: Zoe Wong, Mackenzie Shannon, Brook Bergsma and Alexis Ansley. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

The Reading Web with Cindy Norgate

H

appy new year! There are two ways to look at a new year. You can view it as part of “the dark days of winter” or, as I choose to do, look at it as a renewal, a refresh, a chance to restart. It truly is all about how you choose to look at life, isn’t it?

I want to ask you to evaluate right now. How do you view this time of year? Your attitude will no doubt be known and felt by your children.

As we begin a new year, I did a bit of research into how to beat the winter blues with children. I turned to the University of Pennsylvania Medical Centre Children’s Community Pediatrics for help.

According to their website, childrenspeds.com, and an article entitled “Beat the Winter Blues”, there are several avenues you could take to hold your head up and enjoy the season.

“During winter, people tend to crave comfort foods such as pasta, breads and sugar, but continue to include a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your family’s diet to keep everyone from feeling fatigued. Spend time outdoors with your family for at least 30 minutes each day, even if it’s cloudy outside.

Keep the inside of your home light by opening window blinds throughout your house. If possible, plan a family trip to a sunnier climate during the winter. Establish a set bedtime for you and your children to ensure everyone is getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Too much or too little sleep can trigger depression.

Encourage your family to exercise, whether it’s going for a walk, iceskating or any other form of fun exercise. When indoors, spend family time together by playing a board game, watching a movie or doing crafts and fun projects.”

I located a website called care.com, which shared many fun winter craft activities to do with children. The crafts include winter windsocks, paper fan snowmen, handprint cardinals, button icicles

and many more.

Go to care.com/c/winter-crafts-for-kids/ for a full list. Each craft seems to use everyday household items or items at little or no cost.

My winter reading choice for you is a Wishing Shelf Book Awards finalist and Amazon’s number-one new release and an Amazon Best Seller. It Must Be Winter written by Michelle Wang and illustrated by Uliana Barabash (2021) is a delightful book. According to Amazon, “It must be winter… and our favourite high-energy family is back to revel in the signs of a brand new season. Follow along as they stack and rhyme their way to a snowy wonderland that celebrates

all there is to love about this magical time of year. And yes, our comedy duo of backyard squirrels are still here to keep the page-turning fast and furious, with more pun-derful riddles that will leave you rolling on the ice, chortling out loud.”

This lovely book was written by an “unabashedly Canadian teacher to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year season. It Must Be Winter features: repetitive chorus to promote participation and recollection, predictable patterns for early readers to follow, simple yet rich text for vocabulary building, opportunity to learn about synonyms and appropriate winter wear, and springboards

MAITLAND VALLEY CAMERA CLUB

Photography by Liz Allan

By Deb Hakkers Last year was one of big changes.

Last year at this time Mom was in hospital fighting an infection that has since left her in a wheelchair trying to learn to walk again in Huronlea. Fred’s Mom has moved to Goderich Place and has settled in there.

In August, I retired from daycare and went from two jobs to one, while starting my sewing business up again.

This week we wish Happy Birthday to Mike Haggitt and Jenna DeCorte, who share a Jan. 4 birthday with me, Brodie Nesbit and Gail Ulch on Jan. 5, Josie MacDonald on Jan. 7, Jaxson Bromley on Jan. 8, and a very special Happy 100th birthday to Henny Meier on Jan. 9. We hope everyone enjoys their special day, The Legion euchre results for Dec. 16 are: ladies, first place, Cheryl Buckham (72); second to cross-curricular activities.”

As I leave you here, I want to encourage you to take care of yourself first. This is not selfish.

Read this carefully, because it took me a long time to discover this for myself. Being a parent isn’t about being a martyr. You absolutely must take care of yourself so you can be the best you can be to care for your children. It is imperative that you set a good example for your little ones about how to properly care for yourself. They follow your modus operandi or method of operating.

You can do this. Remember, I’m cheering for you.

“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness?” - John Steinbeck

place, Pat Chatham (71); lone hands, Mavis Thomas (two); Men’s, first place, Jane Glousher (74); second place, Gord Haggitt (69); lone hands, Judy Lackner (two).

Share the wealth was shared by Pat Chatham and Marvis Thomas.

The next euchre is on Jan. 6.

Doors open at 12:30 p.m. and the games start at 1 p.m. The cost $5 per person and it includes a light lunch. To sign up or to cancel, please call or text Kathryn Aires at 519-895-6764.

If there is anything special you would like to see mentioned in this column, please e-mail me at debhakkers@gmail.com or call me at 519-525-8640 (evenings only please).

Until next week, take care of yourselves and each other!

From our family to yours, have a safe, happy and prosperous 2025!

NEWS FROM BLYTH

PRINTING IS OUR BUSINESS • Colour • Business Printing Forms • Posters • Brochures • Letterheads • Flyers • Envelopes • Carbonless • Business Forms Cards • Labels WE CAN DO IT ALL!

BL LY YTH PRINTING INC. BL LY YTH 523-9211

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

2024 was worth celebrating in Huron County dedication from Neil Rintoul.

The Huron County community mourned the passing of Jack Riddell at the age of 92 in Exeter.

The six-term Liberal MPP and former Minister of Agriculture and Food was beloved by many who knew him from his years of public service.

Year in Review FEBRUARY 2024

Honoured The Blyth Lions Club celebrated the 50-year anniversary of its pianist Cheryl Cronin playing at meetings in January. Her late husband Tom had been a member of the club for a long time and once he moved on from the club, she continued attending meetings, providing the soundtrack for generations of members. (File photo)

Year in Review JANUARY 2024 The 2025 Seaforth Homecoming Committee officially launched the countdown to the grand celebration in 2025 on New Year’s Day at the Seaforth Legion. The committee was also in the midst of a logo competition for the event, which was set to close in two weeks.

The annual budget processes began in municipalities like Huron East and Morris-Turnberry with modest tax rate increases being proposed for both.

The Citizen profiled Goderich-

based artist Autumn Ducharme, whose historic method of printmaking would be the basis for the artwork for the 50th anniversary season of the Blyth Festival that was to come later in the year.

Blyth-based baker Jess MinersBromley was tapped to move on to the next round of The Greatest Baker Competition. She now she had three rounds of the competition between her and victory.

North Huron Council approved a tax levy with an increase under four per cent, which was a far cry from the previous year’s budget process in which drastic measures were proposed to tackle a double-digit proposed increase.

Blyth native Justin Peters was hired as the Ottawa Senators’ new

goaltending coach in the National Hockey League (NHL). Peters spent some time in the NHL as a player himself and had been the goaltending coach of the Senators’ American Hockey League affiliate Belleville Senators before getting the call back to The Show.

The Blyth Lions Club marked 50 years of having local teacher and musician Cheryl Cronin as its meeting pianist. They had a small party and presented Cronin with several gifts to thank her for her decades of commitment and dedication.

The Huron County Beef Producers made a special presentation at their annual general meeting held in Brussels, marking nearly 60 years of membership and

A Brussels-based internet sleuth by the name of Hilary IbbotsonMachan lent a hand to a decadesold cold case in Wyoming that helped bring closure to the families involved.

The Citizen was shortlisted in the top three of four provincial awards categories as the Ontario Community Newspapers Association (OCNA) was preparing to hand out its annual awards.

Huron County Council continued its budget increase with a recommended 5.54 per cent tax rate increase to be discussed later in the year. This came after staff suggested 16 adjustments to bring that number down.

A trip to Belleville wasn’t golden, but “silver-n” for four Blyth Junior Broomball teams who came back with provincial silver around their necks.

The Special Investigations Unit officially cleared the Huron detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police of any wrongdoing in regards to a shooting and car chase through Seaforth and Clinton the previous October.

After its closure the previous year, St. John’s Anglican Church in Brussels granted the Brussels Legion $25,000 for the eventual renovation of its kitchen.

Year in Review MARCH 2024 Watson and Associates Economists Ltd. projected that

Huron County’s population may top 90,000 in 2051 if its longterm population forecast came to pass.

The U13 BB Huron Heat won gold at the 42nd annual Walter Gretzky Tournament in Brantford, beating the Sault Ste. Marie Soo Junior Greyhounds in the finals to claim gold by a score of 1-0.

The installation of traffic lights at the Blyth intersection of Blyth and London Roads, one of the more troublesome intersections in Huron County, was nearing completion, with the lights erected, but not yet operational.

The Huron County Clean Water Project officially marked its 20th anniversary, reporting to Huron County Council about the number of projects that had been completed over the years.

The U13 HL Huron Heat won gold at a tournament in Mitchell, defeating the Twin Centre Hericanes in the final game by a score of 4-1.

A new harm reduction centre named The Haven opened in Brussels thanks to the hard work and compassion of founder Leesa Stephenson.

The season ended for the Wingham Ironmen after the team lost a hard-fought game seven in the playoffs to the Kincardine Bulldogs.

Jack Ryan, host of the 2017 International Plowing Match in Walton, and Ron Walker, cofounder of the Blyth Festival Art Gallery passed away on subsequent days, seeing the community lose two giants of volunteerism and champions of their communities.

Huron County’s Public Works Department held a public meeting on the construction of a tunnel to connect the Goderich-to-Guelph (G2G) Rail Trail under Blyth Road just west of the village. In order to avoid the second major road closure in as many years in Blyth, the department aimed to avoid the months of July and August as to not affect the tourism season for the village.

Five Huron Heat teams, thanks to their stellar performances in the playoffs, were bound for the provincial championships, set to Continued on page 9

Planning an

Event?

Don’t miss potential guests!

Run your ad at leastt two weeks prior to th he date or deadline to ma ake sure everyone see es it.

Victory!

The 2023/2024 season was a banner one for the Huron Heat female hockey organization, which saw teams win tournaments, championships and expand beyond its previous complement, including younger players and more teams. February and March were months worth celebrating for those young girls. (File photo)

The Citizen PO Box 429 Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 519-523-4792

info@northhuron.on.ca www.huroncitizen.ca

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 9.

Military exercise takes over Blyth, Goderich in May Community Centre officially reopened to the public with a special donor appreciation night and soft opening, attended by many.

The Clinton Spring Fair thrilled audiences with its usual fare, including the demolition derby, in addition to a concert featuring Owen Riegling, Sloan and 54-40.

Premier Doug Ford shuffled Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson into her fourth position of the last six years, making her the newlycreated Minister of Rural Affairs, leaving MPP Rob Flack to take the other half of the portfolio as the Minister of Farming, Agriculture and Agribusiness.

Kaleigh McCallum of Brussels and Leah Boven of Blyth were presented with district broomball

awards, recognizing their excellence in play and refereeing, respectively.

It was another successful weekend as Huron County Pride held its second annual Pride Festival in Goderich with plenty to see and do.

The 50th season of the Blyth Festival opened with The Farm Show: Then and Now outdoors at the Harvest Stage.

Faced with a price tag in excess of $5 million, Central Huron Council opted not to build a new pool for Clinton, but instead to fill in the existing pool and convert the area to green space.

Wingham’s Barn Dance Historical Society held a special Continued on page 10

Left, right, left Canadian military reservists set up shop in Huron County, headquartered in Blyth, in early May for an exercise that simulated an extreme heat event. They conducted mock wellness checks and a number of other activities, all while welcoming local politicians and members of the public who had questions or wanted to learn more about their operations. (File photos) Continued from page 8 take place in the Toronto area in early April.

Darrell Bergsma of the Londesborough area won the 2024 4-H Ontario Arbor Award, which is the highest award presented by the association, thanks to his years of hard work and dedication to the Huron County 4-H program.

After 45 years on the job, Steve Coulter retired from McGavin Farm Equipment, now Roberts, and there was a party to celebrate all he’s meant to the company over the years.

Year in Review APRIL 2024 The Avon Maitland District School Board announced that it would be parting ways with the Centre for Employment and Learning, no longer providing employment services for the county after a one-year transition period.

The U13 HL Huron Heat were crowned Western Ontario Girls Hockey League champions after a 4-0 shutout win over the Lucan Irish in the championship game.

Over 100 people gathered in Clinton at the behest of Dr. Maarten Bokhout in an effort to save the Clinton Public Hospital and see its emergency room restored to its former 24-hour-a-day glory.

Members of the Canadian military were in Blyth for a press conference ahead of a sprawling exercise in Huron County based in Blyth coming in early May.

Year in Review MAY 2024 Over 800 military reservists from across southwestern Ontario were in Huron County with headquarters based in Blyth for

a heat emergency situation training.

As Seaforth’s Britannia Masonic Lodge prepared to close its doors after nearly 160 years, the group dispersed $250,000 in donations to local groups, causes and service clubs.

Nobel Laureate, award-winning author and one of Huron County’s most prominent residents, Alice Munro, passed away at the age of 92.

The Blyth Lions Club and the Blyth Firefighters’ Association teamed up to bring forward a joint project for a new sports pad at Blyth Lions Park, beginning with a $10,000 pledge to the $30,000 project from the association.

For the second straight year, Central Huron Council rejected a request to fly the Pride flag at any

of its municipal properties, though in 2024, in contrast to the decision made in 2023, council did declare June to be Pride Month. Huron East Council, on the other hand, opted to fly the flag with little discussion or controversy.

Year in Review JUNE 2024 FauxPop Media’s Curtis Lobb won a Canadian Screen Award for best editing thanks to his work on BlackBerry, which became the most decorated film in the awards’ history.

The Brussels, Morris and Grey

Remember Last Winter?

A rising star Depending on who you talk to, local country artist Owen Riegling either opened for 54-40 and Sloan at the Clinton Spring Fair, or he stole the show. (File photo)

No Need To Go Out In That!

The Citizen accepts Visa & MasterCard

Order from the comfort of your own home • advertise • subscribe • buy books Call our Blyth office 405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Lancaster returns, Barn Dance bids farewell lawsuit filed by Toronto’s Factory Theatre over the cancellation of The Waltz in 2023.

North Huron staff implored council to consider moving the Blyth Library to the auditorium at the Blyth and District Community Centre, which staff said was underutilized.

The Belmore Stingers won the Huron County Fastball League’s year-end tournament, making them the first non-Brussels Tigers team to win the championship in the last seven seasons.

The Elementary School Fair in Belgrave and the Brussels Fall Fair united the community and provided an opportunity for the area’s young people to show off what they can do.

Blyth-based artist Kelly Stevenson finally mounted her multimedia exhibition “Beyond ana” at the Huron County Museum.

The project dated back to her college days and she finally had a place to bring it home to tell the story of her cousin, Sarah, who passed away years ago after battling eating disorders.

Year in Review OCTOBER 2024

Back again The historic Lancaster returned to its long-time home of Goderich in June to much acclaim. Thousands and thousands of people came from far and wide to see it, while local Legion members were also on hand to help welcome it back home. (File photo) Continued from page 9 farewell concert at the Wingham Town Hall Theatre to mark the end of its decades-long body of work.

Saving Graceland, penned by Blyth Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt, opened the Blyth Festival’s indoor season at Memorial Hall.

Year in Review JULY 2024 Wingham marked its 150th anniversary with a special homecoming celebration, including a parade and events all over town.

The discussion around lauded author Alice Munro was reframed for many after Andrea Robin Skinner, Munro’s daughter, spoke to the Toronto Star about periods of sexual abuse at the hands of her stepfather, Munro’s husband. She noted that she had told Munro years earlier and that Munro chose to stay with him.

These revelations led to discussions around how Munro would be celebrated and recognized in Huron County and the very future of the Alice Munro Festival of the Short Story.

Mark Crawford’s The Golden Anniversaries opened at the Blyth Festival to much acclaim.

Huron County’s Alyssa Albers won a gold and silver medal at the Dance World Cup in Prague.

Year in Review AUGUST 2024 Birgitte

Solem’s

Resort

to

Murder and Beverley Cooper’s The Trials of Maggie Pollock rounded out the Blyth Festival season indoors with Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: The Farmerettes to soon follow outdoors at the Harvest Stage.

Lerissa Stevenson of Brussels won a bronze medal as a member of the Huron Perth Nationals U17 Tier 1 softball team.

Long-time Wingham firefighter Chad Kregar was named the new North Huron Fire Chief. Kregar had served as the interim chief after Kent Readman moved on from North Huron.

Bluevale marked its 170th anniversary with a special homecoming celebration, complete with an extensive parade.

Boris Panovski, the man convicted of the murder of Don Frigo at the Hullett Provincial Wildlife Area in 2014, was acquitted in a St. Thomas courtroom after a successful appeal of his 2018 trial.

By way of a special night at the Brussels Legion, the Brussels Agricultural Society welcomed a new slate of Ambassadors ahead of the Brussels Fall Fair. Emily Bieman would be the Ambassador, Bridget McCallum would be the Junior Ambassador and Sophia Blake would be the Little Ambassador.

Ted Johns, the most-produced playwright in Blyth Festival history and husband to two-time Festival Artistic Director Janets Amos, completed a trio of sessions at the Phillips Studio on the history of the Festival and theatre itself in Canada, which were very well received.

The Blyth Festival found itself on the receiving end of a $115,000

Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Council officially adopted a new three-flag policy that would prohibit the flying of any nongovernmental flag - a debate that grew out of a request to fly the Pride flag in June.

Chris Michie won the coveted Jim McGee Volunteer Award for his extensive work in the Belgrave community.

Ken Whitmore handed the Blyth Printing reins to his long-time right-hand man, Steve Dawe, marking the first time the business won’t be owned by a Whitmore in generations. Whitmore planned to still work for Dawe, but on a reduced schedule on the way to

semi-retirement.

Dugald McIntosh from the Seaforth area was crowned Junior Champion at the International Plowing Match, which was held in Lindsay, Ontario. The win punched his ticket to the Canadian Plowing Championships in Ayton, Ontario in 2025.

Also at the match, Rachel Gras, the 2023 Huron County Queen of the Furrow, finished fourth in the provincial Queen of the Furrow competition.

A plane crash-landed in a field on Newry Road, but the 68-year-old pilot from Central Huron was unharmed. A few days later, a second plane made an emergency landing in a field north of Bayfield Road on Tipperary Line. The 25year-old pilot was unharmed and the plane was not damaged.

After being sued for over $100,000 for the cancellation of The Waltz in 2023, the Blyth Festival mounted its defence in the suit filed by Factory Theatre in Toronto and countersued for more than $250,000.

The Seaforth Lions Club marked its 100th anniversary with a special event, awards presentations and more.

South Bruce narrowly voted in favour of willingly hosting a nuclear deep geological repository proposed by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization.

Year in Review NOVEMBER 2024 A petition officially opposing the relocation of the Blyth Library to the arena was received by North Huron Council, asking that council consider alternative solutions and keep the arena and community centre as it is.

Dana Weber left her long-time post as The Village Barber in exchange for early retirement, but Continued on page 11

Year in Review SEPTEMBER 2024 Despite the weatherman calling up a rainy weekend, it was another great reunion for the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association in Blyth.

One last song After decades of history, music and fun, the Barn Dance Historical Society officially closed the door on its work with one final concert at the Wingham Town Hall Theatre.

The sold-out performance will live in the memories of many. (File photo)

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 11.

Climate action progress steady in Huron: Wallis The Citizen Huron County Climate Change and Energy Specialist Derry Wallis has had a busy year implementing the county’s Corporate Climate Change Adaptation Plan with an eye towards updating the plan for the coming years and a number of goals slated for completion in 2025.

Next year, Wallis told Huron County Council at its Dec. 4 meeting, she hopes to explore the development of a sustainable

tourism plan, conduct an analysis on the feasibility of electric and hybrid vehicles for the Huron County fleet, and diversify staff engagement methods. Furthermore, she also hopes to continue a number of initiatives that are already in place and bearing fruit, such as the Climate Lens Tool, the Rural Roadside Strategy, the Single-Use Item Reduction Strategy, the High-Performance Building Standard and the Green Fleet Strategy.

The plan itself outlines 63 actions for the county, which includes 14

goals in five priority areas. The five-year plan’s priority areas are infrastructure and assets, health and safety, engagement and partnerships, resiliency and continuity, and innovation and growth.

This year, Wallis and her team completed a climate risk assessment for all of the county’s bridges and culverts, included the county forests in the county’s asset management plan (including their levels of service and replacement costs) and brought in new highperformance building items for the

Spreading holiday cheer On the last day of school before the holiday break, the Kindergarten and Grade 1 classes of Hullett Central Public School went around Londesborough to sing Christmas carols for some residents. Above, Cheryl Wheeler and Karen Dalton were the first to receive such a holiday treat. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

NWMO decision shocks many Continued from page 10 passed the thriving business to Karen Lennox-Moore, who planned to keep things status quo at the beloved barber shop.

Canada Post issued a new stamp to honour the work of the Farmerettes, who had been celebrated on the Blyth Festival’s Harvest Stage earlier in the year.

Linda Stewart, Dan Fritz and Don Dodds were named Citizen of the Year Award winners for the Blyth, Brussels and Huron County communities, respectively.

Neil and Joan Vincent were honoured by the Huron County Federation of Agriculture with its annual Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture Award for their years of dedication to local farming.

Four Blyth teams made it to the finals of the annual Blyth Junior Broomball tournament, though no one would claim gold. Also on that same weekend, the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre held its grand opening, which included a full slate of hockey all day, culminating with a sledge hockey game and a Wingham Ironmen game that Saturday night.

The U18 Rep Blyth Brussels Crusaders won the regional Silver Stick tournament in Wingham, sending them to the next tier of the tournament.

The Township of North Huron sent out a press release saying that

Dwayne Evans had “completed his term” as the township’s chief administrative officer.

The Huron 4-H team won the provincial Go for the Gold competition at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. In addition, Auburn’s Holly Gross won gold in the Junior Sheep Show.

The Blyth Festival announced its 2025 season, which will include an outdoor production of Anne Chislett’s Quiet in the Land on the Harvest Stage and a full four-show season indoors at Memorial Hall.

Morris-Turnberry Mayor Jamie Heffer was acclaimed as the next Huron County Warden, running unopposed for the county’s top political position.

Newly-formed No Hate in Huron held a successful fundraiser and cabaret in Goderich aimed at combatting hate, racism and homophobia in Huron County.

vote in the referendum earlier in the year.

A billing glitch in North Huron meant that around 350 people were charged three times their monthly taxes in advance of the due date.

The township would return the funds and cover associated fees, but left many people frustrated over the whole thing.

Curtis Campbell, a Toronto-based author and Clinton native, penned an open letter asking for the resignation of three members of Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Council for their behaviour during a discussion about a new flag policy earlier this year.

Two Huron Heat teams won gold at tournaments in Guelph and Exeter as the year wound down.

The Nuclear Waste Management Organization decided to bring its deep geological repository for nuclear waste to Northern Ontario and the Township of Ignace, not South Bruce, despite an affirmative

owned properties.

Wallis told council that she has also developed a home energy savings guide and shared nearly 25 corporate sustainability blog posts on CountyNet for county staff members. She also noted that the county avoided 5,253 kilograms of community greenhouse gas emissions thanks to 12 Level 2 electric vehicle chargers.

All in all, Wallis says that the county has successfully achieved and initiated 53 climate actions (84 per cent of the total goal) over the past four years thanks to the hard work of staff, Huron County Council and the senior management team.

Several councillors commended Wallis on her hard work and all that had been achieved over the course of the year, thanking her for all she had accomplished.

2024

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

Join the gallery of new faces in The Citizen's baby photo display January 17, 2025 Email a jpeg of your little one born in 2024 along with a writeup which includes full name, birth date and parents' names and then call us, stop in or pay by e-transfer, credit card or mail a cheque (payable to North Huron Publishing) to prepay.

ONLY $30.00 (must be prepaid)

Celebrating A Special Occasion?

Advertise it in

Year in Review DECEMBER 2024

Sanders Street and Gibbons Street projects, such as additional insulation, heat pumps, triple-pane windows and more.

Also in 2024, two rural roadside pilot project sites were enhanced with 350 wildflower plus and the planting of 81 trees to increase pollinator habitat and reduce invasive species. The team also continued its work with the Regional Electric Vehicle Charging Network and Rural ReCharge with Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, Wellington and Perth Counties.

Wallis also created the draft Huron County Cycling Master Plan, updated the Conservation and Demand Management Plan to reflect reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and future energy conservation measures and created an internal invasive species management plan for county-

Babies of the Year

By Shawn Loughlin

The Citizen Call or email to book your ad today!

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

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

$30.00 Enclosed DEADLINE - January 10 at 2:00 pm Email: info@northhuron.on.ca 519-523-4792

PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

From the Minister’s Study

God-with-us can cure the loneliness epidemic: Dow

By Ernest Dow, Huron Chapel Evangelical Missionary Church, Auburn At a workplace Christmas party recently, our host put on, in the background, the movie Home Alone (1990), now a Christmas classic, in which eight-year-old Kevin McAllister (played by Macaulay Culkin) discovers he has accidentally been left as the sole occupant of the home when his family rushes off on a holiday vacation. At first he has fun entertaining himself with all sorts of activities he couldn’t normally get away with, but it becomes a challenge when two burglars appear and the young lad ingeniously defends himself.

However, it’s not so much fun to be home alone and without support, especially when there’s a threat.

Our society suffers from a sort of “epidemic of loneliness” that is especially keenly felt around Christmas time when we see various other families reconnecting.

Perhaps there’s been a tiff and some relatives aren’t on speaking terms.

Perhaps illness and death have snatched away a beloved spouse. A snowstorm makes impossible a planned family reunion, or we simply find other people have moved away so we’ve gradually lost contact.

In the 2023 report of the U.S. Surgeon General entitled, “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation”, it’s observed that the mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day! “Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for premature death by 26 per cent and 29 per cent respectively…. In addition, poor or insufficient social connection is associated with increased risk of disease, including a 29 per cent increased risk of heart disease and a 32 per cent increased risk of stroke.” Clearly, loneliness can have detrimental effects upon an individual’s health and longevity!

The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada notes that loneliness can be a significant factor (47 per cent) in people choosing Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) even when they have a disease or disability, but are not dying. “The latest MAID statistics tell us that almost half of those who had their lives ended by MAID, but who weren’t dying identified loneliness and feeling like a burden as sources of their suffering.”

In the context of this “epidemic”

of loneliness, the title associated with the coming of a Saviour/ Messiah at Christmas is especially significant: that is “Emmanuel”, which means “God-with-us”. Isaiah prophesied several centuries before the birth at Bethlehem, “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14) When the angel explains to Joseph the origin of Mary’s unexpected, yet miraculous pregnancy, this very promise is quoted as receiving its fulfilment. (Matthew 1:23) The Gospel according to John lacks a Nativity story (unlike Matthew and Luke), yet John’s prologue nonetheless highlights the significance of Jesus’ life on earth in terms of God’s making Himself known to us. John states, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us… No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father's side, has made him known.” (John 1:14,18) The phrase “made his dwelling” in the original language is akin to “tabernacled among us”,

reminiscent of the sanctuary in Israel’s wanderings housing the Ark of the Covenant, which was associated with God’s presence and where people gathered to worship and present their offerings.

When Jesus chooses those who would be most closely associated with Him in His earthly ministry, it is described this way: “He appointed 12 - designating them apostles - that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons.” (Mark 3:14, emphasis added) Clearly to be “with” Jesus, enjoying intimate fellowship with Him 24/7, would be a significant aspect of their formation as Jesus-followers.

The transformative impact of this is hinted at when, following Jesus’ death and ascension, a crippled beggar is healed through Peter’s intervention. They are called to account before the Jewish rulers.

Peter boldly asserts it is by Jesus’ name that the healing occurred.

Luke points out, “When they saw the courage of Peter and John and

Evangelical Missionary Church

Sunday, January 5, 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Mike Stanley preaching "Preparing to Meet the Saviour” Matthew 3:1-17

Worship with us at

russels Mennonite Fellowship this Sunday at 10:00 am All Are Welcome Interim Pastor Elwin Garland 250 Princess St., Brussels • 519-887-6388

Welcome You to Sunday Service!

Trinity: 9:00 a.m. Parish of the Holy Spirit: 9:30 a.m. St. Paul’s-Trinity: 11:00 a.m.

166 Dinsley St. W, Blyth

21 Jarvis St. Seaforth 519-527-1522

revjoann@hurontel.on.ca

holyspirit@tcc.on.ca

stpauls@hurontel.on.ca

www.holyspiritseaforth.ca

www.regionalministryof hope.com

The Regional Ministry of Hope

23 John St E Wingham 519-357-4883

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

Service Livestreamed Sundays at 11 a.m. on our facebook page

The Regional Ministry of

BRUSSELS S

United Chu ur urch Join us for Worship Sunday y, January 5, 2025 11:00 a.m m.

ALL L ARE WELCO OME Contact Alex at ministter.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.co y @g om Website: brusselsandblythuc.ca brusselsandblythuc b ca P.O. Box 359, Brussels ~ 519-887-6259 P.

MEL LV VILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRUSSELS

Sunday, January 5, 2025

Sunday, January 5 at 10 a.m.

BMG Community Centre (upstairs room) 800 Sports Drive, Brussels Childcare and Sunday School provided for children 0 to 8 during the sermon

We extend a loving welcome to all to join us as Doug Sargent leads us in worship, prayer and praise to God. No meal on Jan. 3. Kitchen renovation taking place. Thank you to all who have made this possible.

We hope to reopen on Jan. 10.

NORTHERN HURON-PERTH CATHOLIC FAMILY OF PARISHES All are welcome to visit or join with us, and to become disciples of Jesus, sharing in Christ’s mission.

Brussels: St. Ambrose Saturday ~ 6:00 p.m.

17 Flora Street

For pastoral care concerns please call 519-524-7512 2

Blyth United Church

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

220 Carling Terrace

9:30 am

On-site and online - live.huronchapel.com

“In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” Isaiah 40:3

Worship and Prayer Time Loving Fellowship Expository Preaching

More details at: brusselscommunitybiblechapel.ca

9:30 a.m.

Sunday, January 5

Nursery & Sunday School during worship

end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) It’s as if the Lord knows one of our deepest needs as humans is companionship with Him… As if He has designed us for fellowship and relationship with Himself, and our hearts ache or yearn for that when we’re missing it.

Broadly viewed, it is hard to imagine an infinite, eternal, perfectly good and holy God having fellowship with us imperfect, flawed, temptation-prone mortals.

“All have sinned and fall short of Continued on page 14

The Anglican Churches of Blyth, Seaforth and Wingham

Soup & More 2

Happy New Year!

realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13, emphasis added) Not many days before, Peter and John had heard from their Resurrected Lord at the time of His ascension one of Scripture’s most precious promises.

He commissioned His followers to make disciples - baptizing and teaching people from all nations - and ended with these words: “And surely I am with you always, to the very

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

1025 Wallace Avenue N.

Wishing everyone a safe and happy new year!

To talk to Pastor Mike please email pastormike@huronchapel.com

Contact Alex at: minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com

119 John’s Ave., Auburn 519-526-1131

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

Website: nhpc.dol.ca

Telephone: 519-357-2435

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 13.

BLYTH Y 519-523-4244

+XURQ7UDFWRU FRP

519-523-4311

www.ruralvoice e.ca

OFA concerned with proposed federal bill

By Mark Reusser, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture It’s been almost five years since the first reports of a mysterious new illness affecting humans began circulating in the media. Those were the early days of COVID-19 and, although the pandemic is now over, its impacts on everything from the economy to physical and mental health continue to be felt.

Collectively, the world learned some important lessons about pandemics and the importance of being prepared. The crisis illustrated, for example, the need to strengthen Canada’s ability to produce its own vaccines and personal protective equipment, and how vitally important strong domestic supply chains are to ensuring Canadians have a steady flow of essential goods.

There is a federal bill that is currently at second reading in the Senate that focuses on pandemic preparedness. Bill C-293: An Act respecting pandemic prevention and preparedness was first introduced as a private member’s bill in June 2022 by Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, and it is causing deep concern in the farming community because of its potential impacts on livestock agriculture,

should it become law without amendment.

I’m a farmer in Waterloo Region and, in addition to being a director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), I’m also the OFA’s representative on the board of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA). While the OFA has been following this legislation since it was introduced, it’s the CFA that has been leading the response of the farming community to this bill, including meeting with Members of Parliament and Senators to outline our concerns.

Let me be clear: farmers are not opposed to pandemic preparedness.

In fact, farmers are always on alert for diseases in our herds, flocks and crops. We take disease prevention seriously in all segments of our sector, from poultry and pigs to field and horticulture crops, through very specific practices we follow called biosecurity.

The concern with the bill stems from some of the sections proposing to regulate animal agriculture and phase out so-called “high-risk” species while also promoting alternative proteins and suggesting antimicrobial resistance is solely a problem caused by livestock farming.

A section of the bill, for example, includes language promoting the

production and use of alternative proteins, the regulation of “industrial” animal agriculture and the phasing out of high-risk species, and the reduction of risks posed by antimicrobial resistance.

First of all, there are no definitions attached to such broad and generalized terms, which could easily be interpreted or used to lead to over-regulation or elimination of livestock farming. It also suggests that livestock farming in Canada has been the cause of pandemics, which is not the case.

Animal-based proteins like meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy are recognized as high-quality protein sources that provide essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals in the human diet, and there is neither evidence that they cause pandemics nor that promoting proteins from alternative sources would reduce pandemic risk.

Antimicrobial resistance is a global concern for human and animal health and we should be taking the “One Health” approach to addressing it, which recognizes that the health of people is closely connected to the health of animals and our shared environment and that effective solutions will focus on all three areas.

Antimicrobials play an important role in animal and human health,

and overuse and misuse are a problem in both people and animals. For the livestock industry, antimicrobial stewardship has become a priority and we’ve taken significant steps in the past decade to dramatically lower use and ensure that when we do have to use these products, we do it in a more targeted and effective way.

To avoid unintended consequences for livestock farmers, we’ve been asking for removal of the section that promotes the production and use of alternative

proteins, the regulation of animal agriculture, and the phase-out of high-risk species.

Along with this, the legislation should be amended to encourage continued support of existing animal health protection and antimicrobial reduction initiatives.

As farmers and food producers, we’ve long been proactive in regards to keeping livestock healthy and following a balanced, “One Health” approach will help us continue to produce food for people here at home and around the world.

CIP expansion greatly supported Continued from page 2 proposed new grants are either geared towards stimulating economic growth through industries like agri-tourism or by encouraging development by covering costs like development charges, planning applications, building permit fees and site studies.

Councillor Anita van Hittersum asked Director of Finance Chris Townes if these new grants would be funded through taxation or through municipal grants. Townes confirmed that the grants would likely be funded by taxation.

Councillor Chris Palmer commented that council has to be prudent when dealing with taxpayer money.

Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer

pointed out that the CIP has been a big success for North Huron thus far. He believes that expanding the program will benefit the community. “We have a lot of farmgates and stores, and we have small businesses that are not on our main streets,” he said.

The idea of expanding the CIP to encompass the entire Township of North Huron received overwhelming support - 88.6 per cent of respondents believed it was the right move. The survey results also revealed that only 51.4 per cent of respondents were even aware of the previous CIP grants offered to businesses in the downtown cores of Wingham, Blyth and Belgrave, while 48.6 per cent felt they had not been informed about previously available grants.

Keep up with the latest agri-businesses and the best of rural living! $30 for 12 issues

Making history

$55

For the 23rd time, the community of Ethel got together to celebrate Christmas just ahead of the big day. The occasion included visits with Santa, a parade and horse-drawn carriage rides around the hamlet, which has always been a big draw for the wellattended event. (John Stephenson photo)

Maj. WI makes holiday donations

By Bev Craddock The Majestic Women’s Institute met on Dec. 11 at 11:30 a.m. at the home of Doreen Marks for the group’s annual Christmas potluck lunch party. Eleven members and one guest were in attendance and they enjoyed a variety of food supplied by everyone, including salads, hot dishes and a selection of desserts that left everyone wishing that they had time to take a nap.

President Doreen Marks opened

the meeting with a reading and, after a short business meeting, Treasurer Julie Pearce delivered an update on the institute’s finances.

The roll call for the day asked members if they had a Christmas tree. Most members said they did not, but not all had been set up at the time. Some members shared Christmas stories of the past before business was completed and Doreen Marks shared a final reading.

Members then cleared the table and readied to assemble 30 boxes for shut-ins in the community that were then delivered later that week.

The group also donated toys to the Wingham Salvation Army toy drive and a gift card was donated to the Huron County Christmas Bureau.

We hope all have a safe and Merry Christmas and we hope everyone will be remembered over the holidays.

for 24 issues Please make cheques payable to North Huron Publishing Inc.

The magazine of Agricultural Life

Subscribe Today www.ruralvoice.ca The Rural Voice 405 Queen St., P.O. Box 429 Blyth, ON N0M 1H0

PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Classified Ad dvertising – RATES – Coming evvents Swap shhop

20 words or less only $9.00 + HST Additional words 25¢ ea. + HST

$*0

Citizen--To-Citizen o

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

Articles for sale GERBERS FIREWOOD SER RV VING you for over 15 years. Y Yo our number one source of quality slabwood and bodywood. y Delivery y available. No Sunday calls. 519-274-1236, 519441-2085.

------------------------------------------REPRINTS OF PHOTOS taken by Citizen photographers are available to purchase. All are in colour. 4x6 $5.00, 5x7 - $6.00, 8x10 - $10.00.

Phone to order 519-523-4792 or email info@northhuron.on.ca ------------------------------------------THE CITIZEN IS AV VA AILABLE TO ppurchase at these locations - Auburn Esso, Belgrave Variety Va y,, Blyth Food Market, Blyth V Vaariety, Blyth Ultramar, Brussels Foodland, Brussels V Vaariety, Charlie’s V Vaariety (Clinton), Clinton Convenience, Fogal's YIG (W Wiingham), Seaforth Foodland, Fincher's (Goderich), Goderich V Viictoria St Shell, Goderich Petro-Canada Gas Bar, and The Citizen offffice in Blyth.

“SW WA AP SHOP” ad Call 519 9-523-4792 or email: info@ @northhuron.on.ca

12 27 7,&( 2) $1 $ 118 8$ $/ $ / *(1(5 5$ $/ $ / 0((7,1*

• Free ad up too 25 words, person to person only (no o businesses), items valued at $1,00 00 or less. Price must be included in yo our ad.Y Yo our ad will run three times unle ess it sells faster!

• The Citizen resserves the right to limit the number off items or ads per person.

FREE - Five-foot artificial Christmas tree. Completely decorated with lights.

519-523-9274.

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

78 7 8(6'$ $< < -$ $1 18 8$ $5 5< < WWK /XFNQR RZ Z &RPPXQLWW\ \ &HQWU UH H 'LQQHU 3 30 0 7LLFNHW 7 NH HWWV V 0H 0HHW HH HWWLLQJ 30 6SH SH HF FLDO % %\ \ /D DZ Z 8SGDW DWH H 0HHW 0H HH HWWLLQJ /H HWW 8V NQR RZ Z < <R RX DU UH H &RPLQJ OXFNQRZII RZ ZIIII# #JPDLO FRP RU FDOO -LP

Diving stop It was a day of fun hockey in Brussels on Dec. 28 as the young players took to the ice that morning. The U6 Blyth Brussels Crusaders took on Mitchell and then the U7 Burgundy and White teams took on a pair of MidHuron Huskies teams. (John Stephenson photo)

Health centre sold

by HE in Seaforth Huron East Council has approved the sale of the Huron East Health Centre, located on Centennial Drive in Seaforth to a local family doctor committed to enhancing healthcare services in the community.

This decision will have no impact on the services provided by the Huron East Health Centre or the existing Family Health Team.

Mayor Bernie MacLellan emphasized the benefits of the sale.

“As council, we see this as an opportunity for someone aware of a family healthcare practice’s needs to better serve the occupants of the Huron East Health Centre and the Family Health Team. With the ongoing financial struggles of the Family Health Team due to limits on provincial funding, the sale of the building to a medical practitioner will address those needs while ensuring there are no financial impacts to the ratepayers of Huron East,” he said.

Card of thanks McDowell - The family of the late Carol McDowell would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to everyone that reached out to us at the time of Carol’s passing. Y Yo our kindness during this difffficult time meant more than we could say. A special thank you to the Auburn Community for planting a tree in Carol’s memory. Sincerely, Gerald McDowell and Family

Coming events AUBURN AND DISTRICT LIONS Club Breakfast at the Auburn Community Hall, Sunday y,, Jan 12, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Adults $15, Children $6, Preschool free. Maple syrup supplied by Robinson Maple Products. Eggs supplied by Huron County Egg Farmers. Proceeds for Community Betterment. W Wee Serve.

------------------------------------------The Auburn Lions Club is hosting a free skate at the Blyth Arena.

Sunday y,, December 29, 2024 and Sunday, January 5, 2025 from 1-3 pm ------------------------------------------HURON COUNTY BEEF PRODUCERS' Annual General Meeting, Wednesday We y,, Jan. 15, at Brussels Legion. Supper at 6 p.m.

Meeting at 7 p.m. Tickets at door.

(Beef 4-H Members are free.)

-------------------------------------------

Help wanteed

Help wanted

CLWD W IS HIRING!

Commu unity Living Wingham & District is wanting w you to join our team.

If you are an n energetic person who loves people we want to meet you.

All PSW’s or o DSW’s Apply T To o oday!

Send résu umé to lizl@wdcla.org or drop offff in n person at 153 John St., W., Wingham

The Citizen 519-523-4792 huroncitizen.ca

HAPP PY NEW YE EAR!

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

The Huron East Health Centre was constructed in 2008 and 2009 and was funded through debentures with Huron East and the Seaforth Community Development Trust.

The cost of those debentures had been funded through the revenue from the tenant rents and has had no net financial implications to the municipality since it began operation.

In a press release issued by the municipality, it stated that council was concerned that, going forward, there could be financial implications for the continued operation of the centre.

MacLellan further commented that, “Our initial goal when we constructed the building to house the Family Health Team operations was to ensure access to reliable health care services for the residents of Huron East. We are confident that this transaction will ensure these essential services are provided in our community.”

Receive Jesus into the ‘manger’ of your heart: Dow Continued from page 12 the glory of God,” Paul observes.

Yet, He goes on to add, “and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came

by Christ Jesus. God presented Him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in His blood.” (Romans 3:23f) This is the heart of what Christmas is really all about: atonement, “at-one-ment”; Jesus coming in the flesh so we who were alienated from God by sin could be put right through Jesus’ sinless offering of Himself on our behalf.

So we could well and truly be “with” God and experience Him as our Heavenly Father.

Jesus knew He would one day be taken from physically accompanying the disciples and tried to prepare them for that, promising that instead of His being there, they would receive another Counselor, the Holy Spirit. “He lives with you and will be in you…

If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.” (John 14:17,23) This Christmas season and throughout the new year, may you know this divine Presence as you receive Jesus into the “manger” of your heart - and never be utterly “home alone” again!

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 15.

Obituaries In lieu of flowers, donations to Belgrave Community Centre in Jeff’s memory would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be left at mcburneyfuneralhome.com.

JEFF OLSON On Friday, Dec. 13, 2024, Jeff Olson of Belgrave passed away at his home at the age of 50.

Jeff will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of 16 years, Mickey Howes, and their cherished dog, Jazzy, who brought him endless joy.

He was a devoted brother to Joanne Olson and Brian Heard and Mark and Nicole Olson, and a supportive brother-in-law to Jay Payne and Cheryl Payne and Sean Garrett. Jeff was the fun-loving and proud uncle of Jordan, Lyla, Claira, Allie, Olivia, and Julia, and a caring son-in-law to Lois Lassaline and Dale Howes.

He is now reunited with his late parents, Neil and Ruth (Coultes) Olson, his father-in-law, Keven Ward, and his faithful dog, Thor.

Jeff’s warmth and kindness extended beyond his family, as he had a gift for making friends who became like family to him. His laughter, generosity and big heart will forever be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private funeral service will be held followed by a celebration of Jeff’s life at the Belgrave Community Centre on Friday, Jan. 3, 2025 from 2-6 p.m. This gathering will be a come-and-go gathering, allowing everyone the chance to honour Jeff’s memory and share stories.

DONALD “DON” MCCAFFREY The family of Donald “Don” McCaffrey is saddened to report his passing on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024 at the age of 94. The son of Duncan Roland McCaffrey and Macey Louise (Husted) McCaffrey, Don is survived by his brother Roland and sister-in-law Marianne, and his nieces and nephew, Sue (Steven Pettipiere), Sharon Court (Bruce), Kimberley Mansey-Walker (Robert), Jim (Roxane Gagnon), Pam (Fred Stride), and his many great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Born in Woodstock in 1930, Don completed design studies at what was then Ryerson College in Toronto. In 1963, he moved to Exeter to assist his father in Exeter Furniture, a family business that manufactured church furniture. He remained there until 2022, then, in 2023, he moved to Kingston, to be close to his family.

Don became involved in music at the urging of his sister-in-law Marianne, because of his wonderful bass voice. He initially sang with the Exeter United Church Choir and

the Huronia Men’s Chorus, and over time sang with the London Fanshawe Symphonic Chorus, the Blyth Festival Singers, the Huronia Choir and the Hensall United Church Choir.

His involvement in the Blyth Festival went beyond music: he volunteered in a variety of roles, was stage manager for over a decade, joined the Board of Directors, became Board Chair, oversaw a $2.3 million expansion of the theatre, and even took on some acting roles. He was renowned everywhere, but especially at Blyth, for his great, infectious laugh and his warm smile.

Don loved to drive, which was an asset in the business, since the company installed furniture in churches from Alberta to Labrador.

For many years, he happily chauffeured his parents on sightseeing tours around Ontario. After Roland and his family moved to Kingston, Don thought nothing of the five-hour drive from Exeter for holiday get-togethers and special occasions, well into his eighth decade.

We, his nieces and nephew, have spent our lives in the warmth of his love and kindness. When our grandmother could no longer bake, Uncle Don took over the preparation of our birthday cakes; to this day, we love angel food. We looked forward each year to the gift of his presence at Christmas, and the added bonus of Sugar and Spice chocolates. We all cherish our conversations with him on a variety of topics: wood-working and churches, music, the environment, politics, family history, and a wealth of other subjects. His passing leaves a huge gap in our hearts and our lives.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at Haskett Funeral Home in Exeter in the spring of 2025.

If desired, donations in memory of Don may be made to the Blyth Festival, an organization near and dear to his heart.

years. He loved playing Huron County darts and visiting with friends until losing his leg made him a homebody.

Cremation has taken place.

As per Ted’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy, donations to Lucknow's Adopt-a-Pet Rescue would be appreciated.

Cards of sympathy may be sent to Box 153 Brussels N0G 1H0.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca WILLIAM EDWARD “TED” LITTLE William Edward “Ted” Little passed away peacefully at Wingham and District Hospital on Saturday, Dec. 28, 2024 in his 74th year.

Left to mourn are his wife of 50 years, Marlene, and three daughters: Anita and Rick MacLeod, Sarah and Mark denToom, and Heather and Joe Fraser.

Ted was the grandfather of seven grandchildren and one stepgrandson.

He was predeceased by parents, two sisters, a father-in-law, two brothers-in-law and two sisters-inlaw.

Ted loved driving truck for Transfreight out of Kitchener for

Wingham Memorials Distinctive memorials of lasting satisfaction produced by us to your specifications.

Owned and operated by Mac and Donna Andersoon

519-357-1910 E-mail: andgranite@bellnet.ca ble After hours appointments availab 89 North Street W., Wingham www.winghammemorials.com

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

The Citizen.

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

Cards of thanks can be placed in our classified section, starting at just $ .00.

The Citizen

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

Advertise your business here!

One of the most read areas of the paper

SUDOKU Fun By The Numbers Like puzzles?

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

Pep talk On Saturday, Dec. 28, the U6 Blyth Brussels Cruasders welcomed their counterparts from Mitchell to the Brussels, Morris and Grey Centre for a game, but, before things got serious, the team needed to hear some words of wisdom from their coach.

(John Stephenson photo)

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

PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

In 1906 there were two female doctors in Blyth, coming from Wingham a few days a week. One saw patients at the Commercial Hotel, the other at Dr. Worth’s office. Dr. Kennedy was a GP who specialized in the treatment of women and children, Dr. Calder was an ear, nose and throat specialist.

In May 1895, James Wilson received two horse collars from Carter and McKenzie, Blyth dealers in horse equipment.

In October, he have the business two bushels of apples to settle the $2 account.

Read more in the Blyth Repository of History

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792 blythrepositoryofhistory.ca

Fridays The Citizen, Dec. 16, 2004

The Citizen, Dec. 25, 2014

The Citizen, Dec. 17, 2009

The Citizen, Dec. 3, 2009

The Citizen, Dec. 4, 2014

Read more in the Blyth Repository of History

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792 blythrepositoryofhistory.ca

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 17.

2024 was a year to remember in Walton PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

The year of 2024 has passed and many wonder, “how did it go so fast?” Many folks celebrated special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries and welcomed new babies. We now can look forward to 2025 and hope it is a good year for all.

January of 2024 started well with the children going back to school for a week, and then - not so great.

Lots of stormy weather closed the school for three days each week.

Many events were cancelled, of course, even the Walton Coffee Chat on the second Saturday, but it was able to be held the fourth Saturday with about 30 folks coming out of hibernation.

Snowmobilers were able to head out for a few days because of the snow, but the season was shortlived.

February was much better for weather, but not for snowmobiling.

In the first days of the month the temperatures began to rise, snow disappeared and the sap started to run. Many of the syrup producers were tapping trees for a very early start on the season.

The groundhog forecasters were divided on an early spring. Wiarton Willie and four others went for the early spring and four called for six more weeks of winter.

Walton had some sadness and other happy events. We were saddened to hear of the deaths of Neil McClure and Blair Fraser.

There was happiness for the McGavin families with the birth of a great-grandson for Neil and Marie, son of James and Shayna (Melady). Marilyn McDonald celebrated her 90th birthday. The first robin was reported to be seen on Feb. 5.

March moved right along with better weather, but the sadness of the loss of loved ones. There were six area folks who passed during that time, including Pete Van Veen, John Brown, Jason Armstrong, Gil Wagatha, Lillian Moses and Jack Ryan. Jack owned the host farm for the 2017 Plowing Match held in Walton.

A lovely little girl was added to Brandon Blake and Amanda’s family named Adalyn. There were also lots of signs of spring, with flowers blooming, birds chirping and fresh maple syrup.

The month of April brought the retirement of Steve Coulter from McGavin/Roberts Farm Equipment after 45 years of service. They held a special afternoon and the public was invited to say goodbye and good luck. The solar eclipse had many looking to the sky with protective eyewear. Students had the day off school, so it was the parents’ responsibility to monitor their children.

The Cranbrook Dart Club disbanded and had a special gettogether and meal. They had a chance to see all the new renovations at the Cranbrook Hall.

There was a police stand-off in Walton with no injuries. Neil McGavin brought his videos of Walton past to Walton Coffee Chat to show. Fantastic!

Lots seems to go on in May! The Walton ballpark got new bleachers, courtesy of the Walton Brewers and Huron East. The opening of the Fairy Door Trail in Brussels came on Mother’s Day and Walton’s good Garden Fairy tidied up the flower beds with mulch.

Area folks were saddened to hear of the passing of Bob Rann and of Bryan Kelso.

Corn planting began and Mary Ann Thompson became the grandmother to new granddaughter Penelope. Mother Darby is in England and has a son, Tyler, as well. Neil and Marie McGavin welcomed two new greatgrandchildren: Wesley Melady and Addison McGavin.

It was June and the kids were in the last month of school. The

Lancaster bomber arrived in Goderich for thousands to see.

There was sadness for families on the passing of Robert Eedy, Doug Cloakey and Pearl McCallum and happiness for others with the birth of new babies. A boy, Tanner, for grandparents Eric Ross and Jayne Ross, Patty Banks with new granddaughter Riley, Gary and Lori Pipe with another grandson, William, and Brian and Marlene Rutledge with another great grandchild named Ethan. Good old Walton boy Joe Steffler turned 80 and had a nice party in Seaforth.

In July, many mourned the loss of Bob Richmond and Pat Engel.

Celebrating special occasions were John Boneschansker turning 90 and George and Pat Langlois celebrating 66 years of marriage.

The community of Walton put its support behind the Walton Brewers in attending the smoked pork chop barbecue held to raise money for the team’s trip to Surrey, British Columbia. Over 200 folks bought tickets and made donations.

There were more happy events in August, including Nora Stephenson turning 95 and Clarence McCutcheon turning 90. John and Karen Braecker became grandparents again to a baby girl named Collins. The Walton Brewers did very well at the International Softball Congress tournament in B.C. winning four games and losing four. Lerissa Stevenson won a bronze medal at the Ontario Summer Games in London on her softball team.

Dorothy Gulutzen passed.

It was back to school for many and buses were back on the road in September. Drivers were needed by every bus company and still are.

Lots of babies were born this month, including Rene Richmond’s great-granddaughter Ayda and Neil and Marie McGavin’s greatgrandson Jax. First-time grandparents Don and Monique Baan welcomed grandson Brooks.

The community mourned the loss of Edna Pletch and Jenny Vercruyssen.

The Brussels Walton Ladies slopitch tournament had the RBIs as

winners and they donated their winnings to North Woods Elementary School playground equipment fund.

The great fall weather meant that the 2024 crop season was moving along well. White beans done, soybeans almost done, and corn in progress in October. The Walton Hall hosted a successful turkey dinner and fed almost 130 folks.

Sadness also struck with the passing of Judd Hakkers, Alice Marks and Steve Bernard.

November was the month of Remembrance. Good weather was still with us. The former Millstone elevator in Walton was sold privately and began taking and drying corn. There was a huge pile in the yard, but gradually it whittled down.

The Walton Hall held a couple of Coffee Chats with small crowds.

The BW Trailblazers started staking the snowmobile trail. Shirley Bowman, Leo Deitner and Dorothy Dilworth passed. Mae Ebel turns 97. Brian and Marlene Rutledge have another great-grandchild, this time a girl Everleigh.

Soon it was December with Christmas just around the corner.

The Walton Hall had two families use the hall to celebrate family Christmas. Some paving was done on the main street of Walton and upgrades came for Brussels, including waste receptacles and recycling bins. A cement pad for accessibility, along with a picnic

table and benches, were all installed. The Santa Claus parade was a great success and we had Santa and Mrs. Claus in attendance.

Sadness came with the passing of Jeff Thompson. Nanci and Greg Ducharme have another grandson, named Jaxson, and Murray Lowe celebrated his 80th birthday.

Well, that was a short glimpse back at 2024. We hope the year was kind to you, that you found happiness, that you coped with sadness with the help of family and friends and that you can see hope in the new year for you and your loved ones. Welcome to 2025!

NEWS FROM WALTON

TEMPORARY GST HOLIDAY PRICING DECEMBER 14, 2024 - FEBRUARY 15, 2025

THE CITIZEN - SINGLE COPIES THE CITIZEN: DECEMBER - 1 YR (NEW & RENEWAL) 8 ISSUES NO TAX) THE CITIZEN: JANUARY - 1 YR (NEW & RENEWAL) (7 ISSUES NO TAX) THE CITIZEN: FEBRUARY - 1 YR (NEW & RENEWAL) (2 ISSUES NO TAX) THE RURAL VOICE - SINGLE COPIES THE RURAL VOICE - 1 YR SUBSCRIPTIONS THE RURAL VOICE - 2 YR SUBSCRIPTIONS

SINGLE ISSUE $1.43

$3.50

SUBSCRIPTION 0.00 $47.62 $47.62 $47.62

GST 0.00 $2.01 $2.05 $2.29

TOTAL $1.43 $49.63 $49.67 $49.91

$26.55 $48.67

.46 $3.45 $6.33

$3.96 $30.00 $55.00

* SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE TAX HOLIDAY FOR THE ISSUES THAT FALL WITHIN THE DATES DEC. 14 - FEB. 15 * DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS PAY REGULAR GST * MAGAZINES PAY REGULAR HST

PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Some long-forgotten customs Glimpses of the Past with Karen Webster

O

nly a few decades ago, the customs and rituals for a bride-to-be were much different than in the present day.

Each young woman had a hope chest. It may have been a cedar chest made lovingly by her father or grandfather or it might have been a cardboard box from Simpson Sears.

Nevertheless, this vessel contained all the hopes and dreams of a young maiden. There would be quilts or blankets, as well as dishes, glassware and other useful household items. Throughout time, different items were sought after.

Did I hear cornflower glassware, Blue Mountain pottery or hammered aluminum accessories anywhere? A china pattern would be chosen from popular manufacturers such as Royal Albert or Paragon. Alongside that would be silverware from Rogers Bros. or Oneida and dainty crystalware.

Once a young couple became engaged and had set a date, the bride’s mother would get busy and make the wedding cake. There was a special set of square tinware pans in three sizes graduating from the largest for the bottom tier of a cake progressing to medium-sized and then the smallest square for the top.

Additional cakes were also baked to be handed out at some later nuptial events. The ingredients would be from treasured family recipes, but all the wedding cakes resembled a Christmas fruit cake. The week of the wedding, the extra cakes would be carefully cut into narrow strips and individually wrapped in tinfoil or tiny plastic bags. A small paper doily and a ribbon in the bride’s chosen colour completed the token to be given out following the wedding. There was a superstition that young girls could take their piece of wedding cake and put it under their pillow, supposedly to dream of their future groom.

Bridal showers would be given by relatives, friends or co-workers, but

never by a member of the immediate family. The bride and her wedding party would be guests of honour at such functions, being seated at the front of the room. Little games would, such as word scrambles and knowledge about the bride and groom, would be the order of the day. When the gifts were presented to the bride, bows and ribbons from them were carefully attached to a hat or apron by one of the bridesmaids and the bride would graciously wear this item while thanking the guests for their gifts.

The groom was not forgotten in the midst of wedding plans, as his buddies would choose a remote location for a stag. And that was just what it meant, no women allowed.

The week before the wedding, a bride’s mother would hold a trousseau tea that allowed guests to view all the items from the hope chest, the chosen china, flatware and crystal patterns, as well as all the wedding gifts and gifts from any bridal showers. Every crook and corner of the house would be used.

Beds were spread first with the blankets and quilts from the hope chest and then the gifts received (with the cards naming the donor) all arrayed there. Also sometimes included would be the bride’s goingaway outfit and her negligee.

The food for a trousseau tea, made the day before, was very special.

First, loaves of pink, green, yellow, brown and white bread (without crusts) were ordered from the local bakery. These loaves would come sliced very thinly horizontally. The Purity Flour Cookbook of 1945 included a small chapter these bridal sandwiches, which could include fillings such as chopped stuffed olives moistened with salad dressing, tuna and celery, cottage cheese with chopped crisp bacon or maraschino cherries, chopped nuts and coconut, to name a few. Some sandwiches would be stacked and cut to make pretty ribbon

sandwiches, while others may have been rolled into pinwheels.

These delicacies would have been wrapped in slightly moistened tea towels and refrigerated until the next day.

Following a guided tour of the premises, guests were ushered to the living room where a precise ritual of serving would occur. First, a serviette and small plate were offered with the question, “tea or coffee?” The young waitress (a relative or neighbour) would then return with a lovely teacup full of the tea or coffee that had been poured by an honoured relative such as the bride’s grandmother or aunt. Next offered would be a plate of those

was discontinued in the 1980s due to environmental concerns.

At one time, the celebration of a marriage included just a meal following the ceremony, likely in the church where the event took place.

No matter how clever the groom thought he was in hiding his car, friends and relatives took much pleasure in finding it and sabotaging it with confetti and tin cans tied to the bumper. The worst prank was placing limburger cheese on the manifold.

The community would host a reception in a local hall once the couple was home from their honeymoon. The band would play until 1 a.m., but when they started to pack up their instruments, the crowd might have clapped in unison begging for more music and usually the musicians would comply.

Time rolls along and customs change. Many of the events listed here have been relegated to happy memories.

dainty sandwiches offered with a pickle. Following that would be a refill on the hot beverage and then finally a selection of delicious squares and cookies. Remember that there was a special order and rhythm to the serving at a trousseau tea.

Seating in the living room at one time could be ladies who had just arrived, others part-way through the experience and still others who were at the dessert portion. One young mother made the mistake of taking her two-year-old son to such an event. He could not understand why the lady seated next to him was being served sandwiches while all he had was a serviette.

Leading up to the actual wedding day, the vehicles were included in the preparations. Starting in the 1950s, tissue manufacturers offered their paper products in brilliant colours. Boxes and boxes of facial tissue were used to make pompoms to be attached to the cars. The practice of colouring these tissues

A last hurrah One of the final Christmas celebrations (before Christmas, that is) is the Ethel Santa Claus parade, which makes its way through the small hamlet before ending up at the Ethel Community Centre for horse-drawn carriage rides, hot chocolate and visits with Santa Claus. (John Stephenson photo)

Busin ness Director ry Dave Frranken F ra k

CONCRETE FORMING For All Y Yoour Concrete Needs!

COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL • Foundations • Floor Finishing • Circular T Taanks • Sandwich W Waalls FREE ESTIMA AT TES RR#3 Blyth ~ Fax 519-523-9604 519-523-9971

Affordable CAR AND TRUCK RENTALS

Large & Small Trucks fridge carts - piano dollysmoving blankets

Complete Selection of Cars Our rates qualify for insurance replacement

Passenger Vans full size or mini

GODERICH TOYOTA 344 Huron Rd. GODERICH

519-524-9381 1-800-338-1134

JK KM

NEW CONSTRU UCTION AGRICUL LT TURAL RENOVA VA AT TIO ONS RESIDENTIIAL

Call

519-5244-0253

Plumbing Heating H Cooling and Refrigeration Re

306-8897-0156 Clinton n, Ontario

Large Larg ge instock selection of pallet racking racking, store shelving, display cases and more ffor Inddustrial, Residential, Farm & RRetail ww ww.lakesideshelving.com com lakeesidemarket@gmail.com .com

jkmheatingandccoolinginc@gmail.com 33842 Market Rd., wyy. 211 North off Goderich, offf Hw

J Merner Jon

Take time to check out our Ta great selection of books.

Perfect for all ages and all occasions.

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

Roof R oof T Trusses r usses & Open W Web eb Floor F loor J Joists oists

Lakeside

SHELV VING & RACKING

19-524-1740 51

Reeesidential/Commercial/Agriculture R esidential/Commercial/Agri esid esidential/Commercial/Agricu esidential/Commercial/Agricultu sidential/Commercial/Agric iddeenntial/C ide ntial titial/Commercial/Agriculture l/Commercial/Agric i l/A i lt re

C ntact Zach at Contact Watson’s W atson’ss Home atson aatson’ Homee Hardware Hardw Hard H 519-335-3551 19 zach@watsonshomehardware.com za accch@watsonshomehardware.com ach@watsonshomehardware.com aach@watsonshomehardwar h@ h@watsonshomehardware.com @ m

Jake’s Small Engine Repair

417 Parrsons Court, Goderich 519-612-1387 Open 12-4 1 Monday - Friday; 10-4 Saturday email: parrsonsusedfurniture@gmail.com facebook.com/parsonsusedfurniture

Call 519 519-523-4792 9-523-4792 to book your spot today!

Lawnmowers Chain Saws Dealer for Side by Sides Snowmobiles Snow Blowers Golf Carts & more

Jacob Nonkes Licensed Small Engine Technician smallenginejake@gmail.com

83341 Currie Line, Blyth 519-955-4234 519 955 4234 www.facebook.com/jakessmallengine

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025. PAGE 19.

Hullett Central students impress with concert

Rockin’ around...

At the annual Hullett Central Public School Christmas concert, Jack Gahan, front, entertained his classmates as part of their class performance. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

Christmas for many folks isn’t the one depicted on Christmas cards or in TV commercials. The sad reality is that Christmas can be a sad time for many folks. I think I have found the perfect antidote for some of that sadness. Attend a school Christmas concert. The joy and enthusiasm that floats off the stage as the children deliver their own special Christmas message will cheer every heart and put a smile on every face.

And so it was at the Christmas concert presented by the Primary grades at Hullett Central Public School on Tuesday, Dec. 17. The walls of the auditorium set the tone for the afternoon being decorated with the children’s Christmasthemed artwork: snowglobes, snowmen, Christmas tree balls, etc.

A decorated Christmas tree on the stage was a lovely backdrop for the students’ seasonal music.

The children in the Grade 1/2 class of Mrs. Haggitt had sparkly snowflake headbands as they sang a medley of songs telling of snowflakes falling all over town, being glad winter is here and listening to jingle bells in the air.

Not to be outdone in the headband department were the Kindergarten classes. Ms Bell’s Junior Kindergarten class had candy canes on their headbands as they assured the audience that peppermint candy canes are the perfect holiday treat. Ms Moir’s Kindergarten and Grade 1 children

wore headbands with reindeer antlers and sang about hearing noises up on the rooftops. This group was obviously having fun singing about Old St. Nick and adding actions to their songs.

Music of another sort, a kind of rap/hip-hop number, “Christmas Is Coming”, was presented by Ms. Ireland’s Grade 2/3 class. The children wore seasonal hats and sunglasses for their very energetic appearance in the program, telling everyone what they like about this time of year. The pupils in Ms. Plumsteel’s Grade 3/4 class proved themselves to be proficient in bell ringing to accompany six singers.

Their number, titled “Christmas Is Here”, spoke of sending joy everywhere and keeping the spirit of Christmas alive by showing love.

To end the concert all the primary children came together to sing.

Along with actions and clapping, the group sang “Santa Is His NameO”, followed by an enthusiastic rendition of “Jingle Bells”. They sent the audience home with “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”.

Several years before the amalgamation of municipal governments, the then-Hullett Township Council proposed closing and tearing down the

Londesborough Community Hall, claiming it was no longer fiscally worthwhile. The community was appalled! That’s when the Londesborough Lions Club worked out an arrangement with the municipality resulting in the building thereafter being maintained and managed by the Lions Club.

The group’s mandate has always been “community betterment”. As every villager recognizes, the hall is a very busy place. Rarely a week goes by that an event of some sort doesn’t use the building for meetings, reunions, Christmas gatherings, etc. And it is the “clubhouse” for the Lions Club.

As I looked over village events in 2024, I realized many of them were connected to the Lions Club. Four times a year the group hosts an OldTyme Country Breakfast at the hall.

They organize an annual duck race and fish fry. Last summer, proceeds from those events resulted in new players’ benches at the ball diamond and a renovated washroom space. Also in the previous 12 months, the group has installed a lending library at the hall, assisted with vision screening in the county for Senior Kindergarten children, held a water sampling day and

CITIZEN

AWARD

2024

Sudoku Solution

The Citizen of the Year Reception is rescheduled for

January 29, 2025 7:00 p.m.

Brussels Legion

Everyone Welcome!

hosted an afternoon info session on community paramedicine.

In April, the Huron County 4-H group held its annual e-waste collection day on the feed mill parking lot. The Hulley family instigated a village-wide yard sale which saw many families participating on Mother’s Day weekend. In late April, Hullett Central Public School held another successful fundraiser at the Blyth and District Community Centre paying tribute to Dr. Seuss by calling it “Whoville”.

The year ended on a sad note when two homes were destroyed by fire - the Glanville/Rodgers residence and the home of Jackie Lantinga.

I want to offer a couple of thoughts as we head into a brand new year; a blank page, so to speak, on which we will make our own particular mark. First, a Finnish proverb: “Even a small star shines in the darkness.” And from Anna

Ruth Schabacher: “Each day comes bearing its gifts. Untie the ribbon.”

NEWS FROM LONDESBORO

Wedding Announcement

Joey Stapleton and Melissa Stocco were married September 7, 2024, in Waterloo.

The bride is the daughter of Mario Stocco of Waterloo and Maryann Stocco of Kitchener, while the groom is the son of Rick and Margaret Stapleton of RR #1, Wingham.

Time to Celebrate!

Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, retirement or some other special event, show them how much you care with an announcement in The Citizen.

2" wide x 3" high

4" wide x 3" high

includes colour

includes colour

$30 + tax

$60 + tax

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

PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025.

Brussels Branch took on Howick Remembrance Day duties in 2024 Continued from page 6 the roadside west of Brussels on a wet, dreary day. A great job was done!

June started with a fish fry for Baseball Days in Brussels. We did three more fish fry dinners that month. The patio was then set up and ready for business thanks to House Chairman Deb Ross and Eric.

Bob Richardson and Eric Ross advanced to District Golf after a good finish at the zone competition.

The Brussels Cemetery Decoration Service was planned, but cancelled due to rain and the rescheduled date was also cancelled due to rain.

The Brussels Cadet Corp celebrated 45 years as a Corp sponsored by the Brussels Legion.

Kaleb Koch participated in the district track and field competition and did a great job. He finished first in shot put, second in discus and second in hammer throw. Fantastic!

Many Legion members and residents of Brussels went to Goderich to see the Lancaster bomber fly in.

The first of July brought the Brussels Legion’s annual fish fry. It was followed by only one more in the month. The catering crew had four events in July.

The Howick Branch representatives attended the Branch’s monthly meeting to report their intent to surrender their Branch’s charter in the near future.

They asked if our Branch would take on their Poppy campaign in Howick and the youth program for the school in Howick and the Branch was in favour of doing so.

They also requested that Remembrance Day services be held in both Fordwich and the Howick Cemetery at Wroxeter. The Branch made a donation for the duet wheelchair bike for Huronlea and a donation to Kaleb Koch for his trip to Calgary to participate in Dominion Track and Field competition.

The summer moved along and, in August, the Branch had three large fish fry dinners, feeding about 1,200 folks! We were saddened to hear of the passing of Comrade Brian Travis. Kaleb Koch did very well at the Dominion Track and Field event, placing sixth in hammer throw, 12th in discus and 15th in shot put. A very impressive showing for Kaleb. The Branch had one catering event in August.

September brought good weather with it, so the patio remained very popular. Eric Ross and Bob Richardson participated in the provincial golf tournament. The Branch had a booth at the Brussels Fall Fair and the Branch also held an afternoon for initiation of many new members. There were 14 new members sworn in and four members from Howick Branch transferred to Branch 218. Tours of the Branch and a social afternoon were held. There were five catering events and three fish fry dinners feeding 1,000 folks over the course of the month. The Catch the Ace draw continued.

October began with a bit of a slowdown. The fryers were put away because the dinners were done for the year and only four catering events were held that month. The new electronic sign was up and running and it looked great!

Donations were made to Soup and More 2 and to the four local hospitals through the Radiothon on CKNX. The month also brought the return of the monthly euchre tournament and the Thursday night blind mixed darts. The Poppy campaign began on the last Friday of October at noon and the Branch had its annual inspection by Zone Commander Jon Corbett. We are good!

November was a busy month with Remembrance Day plans and activities. The Cadets help stuff the envelopes with the help of about 10 Comrades for the yearly Poppy mail-out. The Branch sent out over 2,000.

Cadets joined Branch members to stand at a place for the town canvass, about 12 in total. Services were held the Sunday before Remembrance Day at Fordwich and at Howick Cemetery, Wroxeter.

Both were well-attended. The service at Brussels Cenotaph had a very good crowd of at least 200 people. Thank you to all who attended the services to remember our veterans.

The ace of spades was found! The winner of the Catch the Ace draw was Rick Kelly of Listowel. He won $10,244.

November saw the Branch hosting the zone team darts competition and taking on six catering events. New handrails were installed by Comrade Deb Ross that suit seniors and are easier to grip. Materials were supplied by Comrade Marguerite Thomas.

Donations were made to the F.E. Madill girls hockey team’s trip to Europe and the North Huron Community Food Share.

December was busy with five Christmas dinners. Stormy weather cancelled two events, which will be held in January. Huron County darts were held and the weekly Thursday night darts and the monthly euchre tournament returned.

Meat draws, ugly Christmas sweater night, trivia and entertainment closed out the month of events for the Branch.

The monthly meeting was held early and five new members were accepted. There were three early bird winners for their dues in 2026.

Donations were passed for the Brussels Pipe Band, Listowel Hospital, Cadet Corp, Huron County Food Bank, Fire Department, Gateway Health, Brussels Santa Claus parade and two spots of free public skating at Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre.

The Branch keeps busy, as you can read. There are Cadets meetings on Tuesday evenings, blind mixed darts open to all to attend from October until April on Thursday nights, the Brussels Pipe Band practices and is in need of new members to join, also on Thursday evenings, Friday nights there is pub grub available all year round.

Karaoke is the last Friday night of the month.

The Brussels Legion appreciates all the support of the Brussels community and is proud to have made over $13,500 in donations to area groups over the year and I am sure I even missed some.

Welcome to 2025 and drop into Branch 218 and have a visit. You are always welcome!

Shutout The U13 HL Huron Heat welcomed the Ilderton/Lucan Irish to Brussels on Sunday, Dec. 29 and sent them away on the wrong end of a 2-0 score, giving the home team a win right before the calendar switched from 2024 to 2025. (John Stephenson photo)

Star t the year w with a great book!

101 A NOVEL Sally Walker ’s 101 is based on herr own experiences (a decade e of her life in T To oronto and in n Goderich) and will resona ate with anyone who has evver experienced the feeling gs of of, “How How on earth did I every e get myself into this stinking mess?” to “Life is veryy good indeed.” And everyth hing in between.

THE OLD FARMER’S ALMANAC GARDENING CALENDAR 2025 AW WA AY Y The Old Farmer’s Almanac Gardening A DOG TO GIVE AWA Dr .

Dave has become acquainted Calendar spreads gardening joy at every turn of the page. Each month of with many animals throughout this 2025 edition features the stunning the years, but not one has had as illustration of an edible or ornamental much impact on his practice, and accompanied by mini-feature captions his life, as Lug, the stray he that include growing guidance and fun invited to stay. This book will facts about the plant shown. $12.99 warm the hearts of anyone who has ever loved a dog. $12.95 WALKING HOME WA The former CP Rail line from Guelph to Goderich is about to become the 127 km.

Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail.

In 2014 Lynda L. Wilson and her husband Doug walked the future trail and this book tells of the adventure and the people l they th met.t $20.00 $20 00

The Citizen

Never Shall Their Glory Fade After a ceentury, the community cenotaph remains the most hallowed public object of art in any Huronn County municipality.

David Y Yaatees has written a story of these cenotaphs. These memorialss have become the pride of their communities.

Beautifullyy photographed by Conrad Kuuiper. $25.00

BEYOND REA ACH Set in Perth County and in the Muskokas, this novel follows three generations off women who struggle to connect w with each other. It explores chroonic depression and how it affffects not only the one who suffffers from it but the whole family.

Local authoor Sandi Plewis highlights the need for women to find their voicees and claim their own power and takes readers on a journeyy of self-discovery and hope. $25.00 (10% of sales will bee donated to Huron Hospice).

RA AW W MILK and the Searcch for Human Kindness Michael Schmidt tells the story of his struggle to deeliver raw milk to the owners of thosse who produced it. He takes readerss on a gripping and often lonelyy journey through Canada’s leggal and regulatory system. This bbook is testimony to the strength of thee human spirit. $45.00 PLAIN JANE Jane Ovington shares storiess of her childhood while exploring rural living in n a simpler time.

Whether seen through a local history lens, or as a look-back at the Ovingto on family, these recollections are informative, entertaining, and offffer something for everyone. $29.95

405 Queen St., Blyth 4 519-523-4792

Save the GST until Feb. 15/25 5