The Citizen - June 21, 2024

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Friday, June 21, 2024

Volume 40 No. 25

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Pay in HE to return this fall

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

A historic return It was a memorable weekend for thousands who made their way to Goderich to get acquainted (or, in the case of many, reacquainted) with one of only two Lancaster bombers left in the world that can still fly. It was 60 years earlier to the day that the Lancaster first flew into Goderich so it could be mounted and made into a monument. Since then, it has taken up residence in

Hamilton, but it made its epic return last Friday as thousands watched on from the tarmac, the streets and surrounding towns. The plane returned home on Saturday afternoon, but not before thousands upon thousands took the chance to get up close and personal with the stories World War II aircraft.

Merchandise, supposedly, was so popular that a restock from Hamilton was necessary on Saturday. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

Brussels Tigers still undefeated in HCFL

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen The Belmore Stingers and Brussels Tigers remain atop the Huron County Fastball League standings, both with undefeated 4-0 records and a perfect eight points.

Just behind, though having played three more games than either team, are the Walton Brewers with a record of 3-3-1 and seven points, followed by the Fullarton A’s and the Mitchell Mets, both with records of 2-3 and four points, the Monkton Muskrats with a record of 2-2 and four points, the Sebringville Sting with a record of 2-0 and four points and the Wroxeter Rippers with a record of 2-2 and four points.

The Brussels Bangers currently

sit in ninth place in the standings with a record of 1-3 and two points, followed by the Goderich Grizzlies and the Wingham Hitmen, both with two points and records of 1-1.

The Elmira U20 team remains winless with a record of 0-4-1 and one point, followed by the Milverton Millwrights with a winless record of 0-2 and no points.

Over the weekend, the Fullarton A’s hosted Elmira on Sunday and beat the visitors by a score of 6-1.

On Friday, June 14, four games went ahead. The Wingham Hitmen beat the Fullarton A’s in Fullarton by a score of 8-0, while the hometeam Sebringville Sting beat Milverton by a score of 9-2. The Monkton Muskrats hosted the Brussels Tigers, but lost by a score of 7-3, and the Walton Brewers beat

the Rippers in Wroxeter by a score of 17-3, thanks in part to a grand slam hit by Adam Verkley.

Back on June 13, the Belmore Stingers beat the Mitchell Mets in Belmore by a score of 8-1.

On June 12, the Belmore Stingers beat Elmira in Linwood by a score of 7-5, while the other two games ended in shutouts. The Mitchell Mets hosted the Goderich Grizzlies and won by a score of 3-0 and the Brussels Tigers beat the Brussels Bangers by a score of 6-0.

One night earlier, the Walton Brewers hosted Milverton and beat the Millwrights by a score of 9-6.

Looking ahead, the Brussels Tigers and Bangers will play again tonight, June 21, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Also tonight, the Sebringville

Sting will play the Grizzlies in Goderich and the Monkton Muskrats will travel to Wroxeter for a game with the Rippers.

The next night, the Wingham Hitmen will play the Muskrats in Monkton, followed by three games scheduled for June 23. The Mitchell Mets will head to St. Marys for a game with the Sebringville Sting, Elmira will play the Rippers in Wroxeter and the Fullarton A’s will host the Milverton Millwrights.

On June 25, the Fullarton A’s will be in Walton to play the Brewers and the Monkton Muskrats will play the Grizzlies in Goderich.

The Wroxeter Rippers will play the Hitmen in Wingham on June 26 - the same night Elmira host the Sebringville Sting in Linwood and Continued on page 9

A lot of discussion, spurred on by a report on council remuneration from Clerk Jessica Rudy, resulted in very little action for Huron East Council as members searched for ways to trim council and committee paycheques to positively impact the municipality’s bottom line.

Seaforth Councillor Bob Fisher began the discussion at council’s June 4 meeting, proposing that the municipality freeze consumer price index-connected pay increases for council and committee meetings for the rest of council’s term, which is due to end in 2026. This came after council directed staff to prepare a report, complete with comparisons, in regards to council remuneration back in April.

Deputy-Mayor Alvin McLellan supported Fisher’s suggestion, saying it would be a small way to trim a bit of money from the municipality’s budget and show ratepayers that councillors were doing what they could do control rising costs.

Mayor Bernie MacLellan said he appreciated the sentiment, but felt council was dedicating a lot of discussion to an amount of money that, in the grand scheme of things, would barely move the needle in terms of a multi-million-dollar budget. He also noted that, if a move was being made to send a message to the public, since it would be such a miniscule amount, “99 per cent of the public” wouldn’t even know about it.

Furthermore, he said, there is a good chance that council would simply be delaying the inevitable and that it would look even worse, in the end, by doing it that way. If council suspended any raises until the end of its term, for example, it would just mean that the next council, in order to get back up to speed, would have to make a large, lump sum increase to the salaries and meeting rates, which is currently being done incrementally in bite-sized portions, rather than all at once.

Deputy-Mayor McLellan then put forward a motion to freeze council honorarium and pay increases until the end of the current term, but that motion was defeated, so everything will remain the status quo for the time being.

The discussion, however, didn’t stop there, as councillors suggested a number of different ways to save a dollar here or a dollar there. One councillor proposed cutting down on meetings, perhaps going to one meeting per month or only holding Continued on page 16

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Former Brussels resident celebrates academic success to have a disability lens applied to writing classes. It would likely start as an elective, just as those about race and heritage did, but, over time, those have become much more common and popular among students and he hopes that his vision can perhaps follow that lineage.

Having said that, Richmond says there are books that present a firstperson protagonist with a disability properly, but the challenge is getting those books into schools and in front of teachers and students in place of the ones that are doing it poorly.

Achieving his PHD has been a full-time job, he said, and he now views his life as an academic as a series of projects and, now that he’s completed this one, it’s onto the next project. He read over 300

books over the course of his research. He’s still living at York University and he’s not sure where he’ll go next, but the world is his oyster.

Getting here, however, has been a journey in its own right. Richmond says he received a lot of community support during his time in Brussels, with groups like the Brussels Lions Club and Optimist Club, which helped him to buy computers and learning aids in his younger days that helped him reach this point.

Richmond said he would love to teach remotely and return to Huron County, his home, but he realizes that may not be feasible. He much prefers rural Ontario to the city, but it will all come down to the opportunities that present themselves in regards to what he might do next.

What’s up, Doc? Aaron Richmond, formerly of Brussels and Wingham, recently earned his PHD from York University and he celebrated with a surprise party in Blyth. The achievement couldn’t have been possible without his strong local upbringing and helping hands from local service clubs, who would often assist with educational tools. (Shawn Loughlin photo)

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Aaron Richmond - wait a minute, that’s Dr. Aaron Richmond to you, pal - recently found himself feted by his family at The Blyth Inn to celebrate his recent academic achievements, which have been years in the making.

The party for Richmond was of the surprise variety and it marked a bit of a homecoming to the area for the man who spent much of his life in the Brussels and Wingham areas before heading to the Toronto area to study at York University in the north end of the city.

There, he earned his Master’s of Education and a PHD. He majored in English, History and Religious Theology. His dissertation, which he presented and defended late last month, dealt with the roles of disabled first-person protagonists in children’s and young adult literature. In it, Richmond analyzed the presentation of disabled characters in 12 books, finding their representation to be lacking, to put it mildly, and offering alternatives that present disabled first-person protagonists in a much more humane and fleshed-out way.

This notion is one that Richmond has lived with his whole life. His premature birth led to visual and hearing impairments with which Richmond has lived his life. As a child, Richmond said many of his teachers struggled to reach him and didn’t know how to teach him effectively.

Richmond says his disabilities are part of who he is and aspects of himself that he lives with every day of his life and he doesn’t think of them as hindrances. Citing his research, he said that many disabled first-person protagonists are treated by others and embark on journeys in ways that suggest they need to “overcome” or be “cured” of their disabilities. The third option in days gone by that Richmond mentions is that a “solution” to someone’s disability would be killing them if they couldn’t be “cured” or “overcome” their disability.

That’s not how he has approached his life, of course, and he’s worked hard to be creative, learn as much as he can and put that education and knowledge towards helping the world see people like him in a new light.

Richmond lived in Brussels until

he was 11 years old. That’s when his father, Gary, passed away after a bout with cancer, which was one of the formative events of Richmond’s life.

He and his family then moved to a farm outside of Brussels for a time before moving to Wingham for a time. That is where a young Citizen reporter named Shawn Loughlin, after just a month on the job, caught up with Richmond to discuss the poetry anthology, Night Song, he had just published. At the time of the article, published on Nov. 16, 2006, he had sold about half of the books and he was pretty happy with that result.

At the time, Richmond said the pillars of his life were hard work, dedication to his family and friends and a strong will to succeed. Also in that article, Richmond stated his wishes to attend Redeemer University in Ancaster, which he would do before continuing his education at York.

“It’s about becoming more than what the hardships in your life limit you to,” Richmond said in 2006.

“Wanting to prove to this cold, harsh, uncaring world that people with disabilities can accomplish their goals too.”

All these years later, Richmond has continued working towards that goal. And it’s a goal he hopes to

keep working towards, either as an academic, a consultant, an advisor or in any other capacity that will help him to spread his message.

He speaks about upholding the theoretical model of culturally relevant pedagogy in teaching, which pertains to race and heritage, but applying a similar idea to those with disabilities. This way, their differences can be incorporated into the way students are taught in a way that doesn’t treat a disability as something to be cured or something without which life would be better.

As mentioned, this is something that is at play in many of the books he studied and analyzed for his dissertation. It’s harmful not just for those with disabilities, who are then made to feel like they are lacking in one way or another, but also for everyone as the idea of “ableism” is pushed to all students. He says that disabled people in books often fall victim to stigmas and dehumanization as a result of how they’re written, but that can all change.

He has begun doing some consultation work for publishing houses on characters written with disabilities to ensure that their portrayal is accurate and not derogatory in any way. That’s something he feels he can return to in the future, but he’s really hoping

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 3.

NH approves new cross border policy

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Taking flight The historic Lancaster bomber, one of just two that can still fly in the world, spent last Friday and Saturday in Goderich, marking a return 60 years in the making. Over those two days, thousands came to see this epic plane. (Shawn Loughlin photos)

North Huron Council voted in its new Cross Border Water and Sanitary Sewer Services Connection Policy, which establishes a framework of requirements for property owners living outside North Huron who are currently or will be connecting to North Huron’s systems. There are approximately 25 property owners in adjacent municipalities currently connected to North Huron systems, most of which date back to the days of amalgamation.

The policy is designed to streamline the connection process by giving approval authority to the Director of Public Works and Facilities for connection requests of two cubic metres or less for sanitary sewer services and two cubic metres or less for water, as long as there is the capacity to do so.

The policy was initially brought before council on June 3, but was sent back to the drawing board when Councillor Chris Palmer took umbrage with the draft’s stated requirement that all property owners utilizing cross border services would need to have $5 million in liability insurance.

Palmer pointed out that $5 million was an unusually high amount for residential users, and requested that staff adjust the liability insurance

clause of the policy to reflect the difference between residential lots and commercial properties like farms. Palmer had also done his own research into a number of different insurance providers, and had discovered that many companies are currently unwilling to insure a residential property for such a high amount. He was concerned that this part of the policy would impede users as they attempt to procure insurance.

Clerk Carson Lamb explained at the time that the township’s insurance broker, AON, had recommended that the minimum liability insurance requirement be $5 million for all properties due to rising liability insurance claims and costs. After Palmer’s request, AON reviewed its recommendation, and decided to decrease the minimum liability insurance for residential users to $2 million. AON also requested that a clause be added to that, signing the request “shall indemnify North Huron, its employees, contractors, servants, agents and elected officials against all actions, suits, claims and demands whatsoever which may arise and for all damages, charges or expenses which may be incurred, sustained or paid by North Huron whatsoever which may arise either directly or indirectly by reason of the applicant being permitted to connect to and obtain services from North Huron’s systems.”

My last words shall be (William Grimshaw) "Whom have I in heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You!" Psalm 73:25 When I come to die, I shall have my greatest grief and my greatest joy.

My greatest grief--that I have done so little for Jesus.

My greatest joy--that Jesus has done so much for me!

My last words shall be: "Here goes an unprofitable servant!"

A Grace Gem Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church Listowel.on 519-291-3887

The Citizen office will be closed on

Monday, July 1 for Canada Day The deadline for the July 5 paper will remain the same July 2 by 2:00 pm Drop in, call or email ads 519-523-4792 email: info@northhuron.on.ca 405 Queen St., Blyth ~ 519-523-4792

PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Editorials & Opinions

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

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Dome worry... about a thing This past week saw most of Ontario sweltering under a heat dome, yet another new weather term thanks to climate change. The lingering heat wave will result in most of us altering our normal patterns to cope with the risks associated with such intense heat. Gardens and lawns will wait until dusk for tending, walks will happen after dark, outdoor workers will need more breaks and employers will need to make accommodations for cooling stations. In the future, schedules may be altered even more, allowing more and more outdoor activities to take place earlier in the morning or after the sun sets.

Even the athletes are calling for climate change consideration for the host city. Paris is planning to host the greenest Olympics ever, but part of the plan is to reduce air conditioning, which is causing some concern, as the city is facing average July and August temperatures at least five degrees warmer than the last time it hosted in 1924. Athletes are calling for the IOC to consider ensuring that the host cities and dates are selected to avoid the heat of the summer, to reduce the risks to participants and spectators and to allow athletes to compete at their peak performance.

As climate change creates more frequent extreme weather events, like heat domes, civilizations will have to undergo some cultural shifts to adapt to the environment we’ve created. – DS

Another set of eyes Far be it from this editorial board to directly contradict itself just one week later, but, as rural Ontarians, it’s hard not to see the dividing of the Agriculture and Rural Affairs portfolios as a good thing.

Sure, Premier Doug Ford is growing his cabinet at a rate that would be the envy of an old-fashioned Irish Catholic family. However, it may be overdue to split the worlds of farming and rural affairs into their own ministries. After all, not all farming is a rural affair and vice versa.

Now, rural Ontarians can know that a dedicated minister is spending her time working to make their lives better and champion them. HuronBruce MPP Lisa Thompson will now take on that task. Meanwhile, Elgin-Middlesex-London MPP Rob Flack will oversee the worlds of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. Not only does Ford’s change reflect the differences between farming and rural life, but it also looks to the future of agriculture, folding agribusiness into the portfolio at a time when farming and its associated businesses are changing.

Flack will now be able to focus on agriculture, while Thompson can dedicate more of her attention to the issues with which rural Ontario is grappling. While some of these will no doubt cross over with other ministries, rural Ontarians need housing, they need open and staffed hospitals, mental health supports and drug addiction programs and they need to know that their way of life is just as important as anyone else’s.

It will now be up to Thompson to be our champion at a time when everything is so urban-focused. Ours is the way of life she grew up loving and still loves. Hopefully in her new position, with dedicated attention towards rural affairs, we will see our way of life, and the land upon which we live, preserved for generations to come. – SL

Hazardous to your health U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has urged Congress to mandate warning labels on social media platforms, akin to those on cigarette packages. This proposal is not merely symbolic, but a vital step to address the mental health risks social media poses to young people.

In a New York Times opinion piece, Murthy stresses that social media is contributing significantly to the mental health crisis among adolescents. “A surgeon general’s warning label on social media platforms is necessary to regularly remind parents and teens of its potential harms,” he stated. Evidence from tobacco studies suggests that such labels effectively raise awareness and change behaviour.

However, warning labels alone aren’t enough. They are part of a larger strategy to make social media safer for young users. According to 2022 data, 95 per cent of teens aged 13 to 17 use social media, with over a third using it “almost constantly”. Despite federal regulations, underage users easily bypass age restrictions on platforms like TikTok, which introduced a 60-minute limit for users under 18 - an easily overridden measure. Murthy questions why society hasn’t responded to social media harms with the same urgency as other safety issues. These harms aren’t due to parental failure, but the unchecked release of powerful technologies without sufficient safety measures.

This concern extends to Canada, where young people face similar risks. The call for action is clear: social media companies must prevent data collection from minors, limit addictive features and share health impact data with independent researchers. Additionally, schools, parents and healthcare providers need to promote safer social media practices.

Murthy’s proposal for warning labels is a positive step in protecting the mental wellbeing of young people. It’s an urgent call to action that Canadians must also heed to help protect the next generation. – SBS

Looking Back Through the Years June 25, 1969 The June meeting of the Blyth Horticultural Society took place at the home of Mrs. Higgins on Monday, June 23, and saw a good turnout.

The president, Mrs. Sundercock, began the meeting by reading a poem titled “Friendship.” This was followed by a reading on “Dreams”

by Mrs. L. McGowan. For the roll call, members shared what they liked to do on a rainy day.

Mrs. Wright, the secretarytreasurer, reported that $34 was raised at the May Tea. She also mentioned that the Scrimgeour family donated money to plant trees in the park in memory of the late Mrs. L. Scrimgeour.

The upcoming weekend was the last chance for subscribers to receive The Blyth Standard at the current subscription fee of $2.50.

Starting Monday, June 30, the price would increase to $4. The Blyth Standard reported that subscribers were very understanding about the price change, with only two complaints received.

The Blyth Standard received a postcard from Tommy Thompson, sharing that the Thompson family was having a wonderful time in Ireland. The family rented a car and was enjoying the beautiful countryside. The Blyth Standard planned to publish a full report of their trip once Tom returned.

June 22, 1977 On Friday, June 17, the Grade Eight students of Brussels Public School were visited by the Little People, not from Mars but from Delaware, Ontario. They brought with them an out-of-this-world sound, playing everything from rock to country. The auditorium was packed with people eager to

hear their unique music. Their lively tunes got everyone on their feet, even the boys who usually didn’t participate. When The Brussels Post spoke with the boys, they shared that the music was better than they expected and they felt great about joining in.

Mr. and Mrs. Harold Thomas recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. The former Verna Dennis and Harold Thomas were married by Rev. A.V. Walden at the home of the bride’s parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Dennis, in Browntown.

Many former Sunday School members and associates of Knox United Church in Belgrave gathered on Sunday, June 19, to celebrate the Sunday School’s anniversary. The auditorium was filled to capacity, with many people returning from distant areas to join in the service.

June 21, 1989 Blyth village councillors expressed their concern about the village’s future under a county reform proposal by voting against several recommendations from a provincial legislative committee’s report. One particularly troubling proposal for the councillors was the requirement for a minimum population of 4,000 for any municipality. “The way I see it, all the big municipalities are going to agree with the report,” Reeve Albert Wasson remarked, noting that it is the small municipalities, not the large ones, that would suffer.

Walton Public School students bid a fond farewell to Principal Gary Jewitt last Friday. Jewitt was heading to Liberia to participate in a program aimed at educating Africa’s principals. After a program

of song and dance presented by the students in his honour, Jewitt, with the help of some Kindergarten children, cut the cake.

The Citizen editor Bonnie Gropp shared her review of a new Blyth Festival show, saying, “Never have government and bureaucracy been so much fun!” Gropp wrote that Dan Needles’ The Perils of Persephone, which opened on Friday, was a delightful comic play that kept the capacity crowd entertained throughout. With sardonic wit, the playwright gave the audience the chance to laugh at the foibles of government and society, raved Gropp.

June 24, 2004 At a recent penny auction hosted by the Blyth branch of the Royal Canadian Legion on June 18, attendees took their time inspecting the wide array of items before placing their tickets in the cups.

Five-year-old Jenna McDonald recently experienced her very first haircut, but it wasn’t just any ordinary trim. Her 10-inch braid was snipped off for a meaningful cause - to be donated to Locks of Love, an organization based in Florida providing wigs to children suffering from alopecia or cancer.

Jenna’s mother, Michele, discovered Locks of Love while watching television and mentioned it to Jenna. Jenna, with a compassionate heart, expressed her desire to contribute. “It’s a nice bob now that she can brush herself,” said Michele, reflecting on Jenna’s new hairstyle.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, John Neville couldn’t attend as the guest speaker at the Blyth Festival’s opening night dinner on Friday as planned. However, actor Seana McKenna graciously stepped in.

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 5.

Other Views

We have to learn to seek balance

T

wo totally unrelated news items last week seemed to connect for me in a way that brought new relevance to the world in which we live.

In the first, Joey Chestnut was banned from the July 4 Nathan’s 2024 Hot Dog-Eating Contest on Coney Island after setting the record as a 16-time winner of the competition by consuming 78 hot dogs in 12 minutes.

Chestnut was banned after he advertised a vegetarian “hot dog” for a different company.

In the other bit of news, we were told that there are 783 million hungry people in the world (nearly 20 times the population of Canada). Meanwhile, here in Canada, almost one in three Canadians in 2022 were judged to be obese, up from 21 per cent back in 2003.

Elsewhere, the news in the U.S. and in Europe reports that the popularity of right wing parties is on the rise, at least in part because desperate hungry people are crossing borders, swimming across the Rio Grande or taking makeshift boats across the Mediterranean.

On top of that (I’m going to sound like a grouch here) scientists told us recently that the world reached new temperature levels last year as global warming continued. In Canada, we lost hundreds of thousands of acres of woodlands last year to wildfires, the smoke from which contaminated the air of more populous areas to the south, making it hard to breathe.

The world can seem huge to us, but what nature is proving is that we’re all interconnected. Billions of people in North America, Europe and Asia live more comfortable lives because of burning fossil fuels (often provided by places like Canada), but the carbon dioxide they produce helps warm the climate of Canada, making horrible wildfires like last year’s more possible.

Keith Roulston

From the cluttered desk This land we live in was originally settled by Europeans who immigrated to Canada on wind-powered sailing ships. They travelled to Huron County by muscle power, their own, through walking, and power borrowed from oxen and horses. They cleared the land, again by muscle power, and created a vast area to produce food for more people.

But that was hard work carried out by desperate people. Those people and their children sought an easier life. Railways brought easier transportation late in the 1800s, adding polluted air. Gas-powered cars and tractors made it easier to produce more, although also creating air pollution. Electricity made life even easier, but often came from carbon-burning power plants.

Such was the relative poverty of rural life in the 1930s through the 1950s that people didn’t travel far. Not only did villages like Brussels and Blyth have full shopping options, but people could shop in hamlets like Auburn, Londesborough, Belgrave, Walton, Cranbrook and Ethel as late as when the Blyth Festival was started. Even St. Augustine had a store to save people longer shopping trips.

Today, we travel to Goderich, Listowel, Seaforth, Clinton and Wingham to shop. The mall in Goderich is mostly empty now as people took their buying to London or

Kitchener. The more we shop farther from home, the less options we have to shop at home. Not only have shops in Auburn or Ethel closed, but Blyth and Brussels have lost many options, and Clinton and Wingham stores find staying in business more precarious.

But every shopping trip we make burns gasoline, increasing pollution, complicating our choices.

So, worldwide, scientists tell us July 2023 was the overall warmest month on record, and September 2023 was the most anomalously warm month on record - that is, warmest relative to the average for that month, where records stretch back to the late 1800s.

The combined land and ocean temperature has increased at an average rate of 0.11° Fahrenheit (0.06° Celsius) per decade since 1850, or about 2° F in total. The rate of warming since 1982 is more than three times as fast: 0.36° F (0.20° C) per decade.

Yet we continue to want more. People pay more for accommodation, meaning more people can’t afford a house or apartment and live in tents. Large luxury cruise ships sometimes rescue migrants whose leaky boats are sinking in the Mediterranean as they seek shelter in Europe. People like Joey Chestnut win fame stuffing hot dogs into their stomachs in record time while others starve. We North Americans, tempted by endless commercials enticing us to eat more, get fat.

The world is screwed up - much of the damage by my generation. We keep thinking that if we have a little more we will be happier.

We often are, for a short while, but then we’re tempted to have yet a little more.

We have to relearn to live a balanced life. We don’t want to live like the pioneers, but we don’t want to be out of clean air to breathe.

Flags, flags, flags, flags, flags, flags

Y

abba-dabba doomsday, e’rybody! The Chaff is back to snack on some facts while attracting some gnats to make stacks on stacks on stacks of gnats on gnats on gnats - Gnat Stacks - they make a great snack and that’s a fact.

This, The Chaff, is brought to you by Gnat Snacks. Gnat Stacks: They’re yum, yum!

Have ‘em with mayonnaise. Gnat Stacks!

Well, welp, and while we were “welping” so well a little earlier, we wondered, “woah, what’s up with all the weird and wacky flag stuff, lately, amiright?” Well, looks like there are others who totally “flagree” with us! The “flag-pocalypse” is “flag-pon” us. May flags have mercy on our flags - our noble gnat flags - and otherwise.

What’s been flapping in the wind? An awful waft; a wretched stench intent on olfactory invasion; the worst kind of stink sensation. A scent, so suddenly upsetting, that wetting yourself is the only option. We’ve all been there before and now we’re here, together, in it.

Everybody agrees that flags are the number one issue plaguing society right now and it is incumbent upon each of us to spend as much time as possible thinking about flags, writing about flags, and flagging flag-related flag issues whenever flag possible. Flags flags flags, flags flags, flags flags, flags flags flags.

And to a lesser extent, flags; but to a greater extent, flags.

The divisions are dividing the indivisible down to Dividey Town for the Division Olympics. It’s an infinite splintering of divinity until it’s finished, or fission, or something for which we can’t get a refund.

Anyway, we simply cannot stand for this because our legs are too divided and we have zero core strength.

We really wish this wasn’t an issue that

Scott Stephenson The Chaff needs flagging on about but that’s just the fate of the flagger, the flaggee, the flagoron, the flagagellen, the flagonometry, the sewage flagoon, the flava flag, Fleet Foxes, flag football, Viva Flag Vegas, Feverly Flags, Flags-021-flags, the list goes on and on.

Everybody agrees that the Canada’s Wonderland flag, a Toronto Argonauts’ flag, and a promotional flag from the movie Avatar: The Way of Water represent all of us equally and fairly. Every Chester, Charlie or injured party of historical oppression gets the same shot at glory, greatness and that good kind of goo-goo under the beautiful three-flag dogma/dog whistle, doggone it!

If three were good enough for actor Lycia Naff, who portrayed Mary in the Arnold Schwarzenegger Schwi-fi freakout classic Total Recall, then shouldn’t it be good enough for us too? Three is all you need.

Case closed. Case closed. Case closed.

But let’s face the flaccid facts - some fellas, some females and some otherwise want flags flown while other freaky folks and folksy freaks feel like no such flags should fly. It’s a conflict at full mast. A glistening mast that’s been lubricated for lurid and optimal flag raisings, lowerings, reach-arounds, pole dancings and sog ‘em ups.

Each and every one of us is really turned on by flags - that’s obvious. We all remember that sweet flag that brought us to our first dance. We were all so nervous that our

“cringey” parents might accidentally call them a pennant, or bring up bunting for some reason. You remember - you worked up the nerve, leaned in close and gently cooed, “I love you, flag.” We all remember and that’s why the divisiveness in which we persistently exist, we insist, should exit our midsts. Take a hike, divisiveness, yer a twisted mess that is needless at best. A hex on ye. A hex on ye.

So what are we going to do about it? The Chaff has a plan that we expect is going to be very popular with everyone in the flag community who reps their flags with unwavering, but always waving, “flagtegrity”. Flap on like Donkey Kong, you princely princesses and princessly princes of the lower skies.

Back to the plan, which is known as Codename: Chaff; It’s a top-secret plan to fix everything and make it nice, so nice, so very, very nice, nice, nice, nice, nice.

(Wheeling in drum roll machine) The plan (drum roll) is (drum roll) (drum roll) (drum roll) (drum roll) (drum roll) (sound of hand whacking the drum roll machine to stop it from skipping) The Chaff flag. That’s right, we here at The Chaff propose flying The Chaff flag to solve all of the flagrant “tomflag-ery” that is destroying our flag-related faculties and fantastic flag factories.

The Chaff flag is 100 per cent transparent, so you can see your neighbour when you’re looking through it. Say hello, introduce yourself, discuss your perceived divisions, then get back to work making this area a welcoming place for all to live, love, work, volunteer and thrive.

Just kidding! Continue raging about flags!

Y’all seen the Morris-Turnberry flag?!?

Yeesh! The Surgeon General should slap a “horny-warning” on that flag. It’s pornographic!

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

Worth 1,000 words

Y

ou’ve all seen a television show or a film before that has a scene in which a photographer - maybe a journalist or a cop - is going through his or her pictures and spots something in one of them they didn’t know they had captured. Usually it’s a person lurking in the background or some detail that breaks a case wide open by sheer luck.

Other times, an astute observer of human nature and body language will uncover a bit of a relationship in some pictures taken. The way two people look at one another, or something along those lines, may reveal something in pictures that the world doesn’t yet know. There will be no further elaboration on that one.

On Saturday, I had such a moment. I brought Tallulah to the Blyth Festival Art Gallery’s opening for Greg Sherwood’s show (great stuff - stop in and see it) as I have begun volunteering on the gallery committee. I snapped some pictures of the speeches and then turned back and took one of Tallulah, as I had asked her to hang back and wait for me to return from my picture-taking spot, thinking it would be neat to document her first art show.

Plus, she looked so sweet. Jess had picked out a special dress and sweater for her to wear.

After we came home and put her to bed, I swiped through the pictures only to find that she had caught me taking the picture. Most of those in attendance are looking to their right (at Greg while he spoke), but she was looking right at me (and, thus, the camera) holding her hands together patiently with just the biggest, most heartfelt smile across her face. It was the best Father’s Day gift I could ever receive.

She just has such a pure, uncomplicated love for her dad and it was hard not to get swept up in that, you know, emotionally speaking. As time, circumstances and consequences can change and complicate lives as we all grow older, it was so heartwarming to just see that little girl’s face looking back at me.

As a father who can, at times, be impatient or angry and who doesn’t particularly wish to recreate the experience his father created for him, the parenting journey can be complicated.

You try your best and follow your instincts, all the while thinking of the example set for you not as something to follow, but to avoid.

Through those ups and downs, reassurances and teachable moments, a smile like that, when I didn’t even ask for it, serves as a reminder of the love Tallulah has for her parents. It tells me that I’m doing something right and that, with me, she feels loved, happy and safe. It makes me want to try harder and be better for her and Cooper, but it’s also a reminder to not be so hard on myself; a reminder that, if something was far off-track, that smile wouldn’t be there.

Being a father can be tough business. Many people fail at it because it’s such a hard job and it’s one that goes on for many, many years. I owe it to my kids to do my very best and, if I do, they will reward me accordingly.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Firefighters serve up breakfast A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

A fatherly tradition The Brussels Firefighters Association, many of whom are fathers as well, took time out of the holiest of holy days for them to cook breakfast for the other fathers of the community - a tradition that has been rooted in Brussels for many years. Don Hastings, left, and Tyler (John Stephenson Deitner took on one of the hotter jobs. photo)

To me, summer is the fun season.

I truly like the other three seasons, each with their unique offerings, but the happenings and opportunities of summer are almost endless.

With the lengthening days after the solstice, ideas abound. Beach time, theatre visits, music in the parks (several available), paddling on our rivers, camping, water balloons and bubbles, picnics and reading under a tree are all such good choices. Really, what’s stopping you from summer activity? No snow, no sweaters or coats needed, no heavy boots - just get going!

Family reunions often happen in summer. We attended one on the weekend that had an interesting and informative twist. The Gorrie Watsons knew long ago that they shared relatives with the Morris Watsons, and so a gathering was set. Norm Watson and family hosted two sides of Watson history that came to be when John Watson required/acquired two wives to keep his life going. The two wives

At the Branch

Cadets mark 45th anniversary

By Jo-Ann McDonald The week at the Legion began with the Brussels Lions Club holding its President’s meeting.

Outgoing President Tim Prior chose ham and scalloped potatoes as his meal of choice. Following the meal, they enjoyed some entertaining games and laughs. Comrades helping included Judy Lee, Jo-Ann McDonald doing preparation work and again at meal time with Marni Knight, Mabel Glanville and Deb Ross.

On Tuesday evening, it was the 45th annual 2967 Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corp Review. It was well attended by the 15 Cadets (missing one), special guests, Legion members, Officers, parents and family members for a total of more than 50 people. The ceremony was held on the north side of the Legion in the parking lot and street (which was closed) for the evening.

The Cadets marched on parade, followed by the Reviewing Officer’s arrival. The reviewing Officer was a former Commanding Officer of Corp 2967, Captain John Grobbo.

Captain Grobbo first became involved with the Corp in 1989 under Captain Stuart Parker. He spent seven years as CO before stepping down for two years, only to return for another eight years before retiring. He then spent another 15 years with various Corps across Ontario. In his years of affiliation with the Cadet Corps, he has always stressed the importance of the program for citizenship training for teens, encouraging them to stay in school, further their education and training, set goals and take on leadership roles within their communities. Captain Grobbo now serves as an Army Cadet League representative.

The Cadets put on various demonstrations for the crowd, including marksmanship and First Aid. Presentations were made to Cadet Beiri, who received the Master Corporal Joseph Kerkhof Award. Cadet Smith received the Terry Glanville Award, Cadet DeBoer received the Captain Stuart Parker Leadership and Citizenship Award and Cadet Caskanette received the Captain Louise Wegg Commanding Officer Award.

Comrade Kathy Burkholder, who serves on the Support Committee as Legion representative, said a few words on behalf of the Committee and the Legion Branch 218. She reports that the Brussels Legion has always taken pride in its sponsorship of 2967 Brussels Legion Army Cadet Corp for the past 45 years. The Corp was formed in 1979 with Captain Rose Marie Vandenberg as Commanding Officer. Her complement of Officers included Civilian Instructor Elaine Nichol as Office Administration, Second Lieutenant Kang Yoon as Training Officer and Second Lieutenant Carl Graber as Supply Officer. There were two former Cadets from the first Cadet Corp in attendance and they were Donna and Velma Elliott, daughters of Anne and the late Ted Elliott. The board of Directors in 1979 (known today as the Support Committee) consisted of Al Nichol as Chairman, Ted Elliott and John Sims as Directors.

Kathy then presented the Corp with an anniversary certificate for their 45 years of service. She also thanked Commanding Officer Dickinson and his Training Officer 2LT Struthers, Administration Officer Captain Coulter, Supply Officer CI Smith and Standards Officer 2LT John Sharp for their

dedication to the Corp.

A social time was held after the conclusion of the event. The Cadets are now on break until their return in September.

Early Friday morning, Eric and Deb Ross headed to Goderich to participate in the Legion ceremony honouring the arrival of the Lancaster. Eric marched in the parade and carried the Brussels Legion Branch 218 flag. It was great a occasion.

On Friday evening, the pub grub, music and the Catch the Ace draw took place. Burgers and fries were cooked out on the patio by Deb Ross and music was provided by Louise Poirier. It was really nice to hear some great songs many knew.

Inside, the Catch the Ace draw was conducted by Sandra Brown, Lisa Glanville, Joan Smith and others. The lucky weekly winner was Don Chesher and he won $161.

His envelope choice was number 34 and the three of spades was revealed. The estimated jackpot for this week is $3,500. Get your tickets today and help the pot grow!

Saturday activities at the Branch included Deb Ross out back cleaning fryers to get ready to go away for a fry later. Jo-Ann and Judy were busy upstairs thawing fish and organizing supplies to go to the fry. We also had a couple of firefighters, Heather Dunbar and Brian Deitner, preparing sausages for breakfast on Sunday morning.

Busy, busy.

The fish fry crew then went to Crediton for a fry on Saturday for supper. The crew included Chris Brown, Deb Ross, John Lowe, Jody Houston, Judy Lee and Kathy Burkholder. The crew fed about 270 folks. It was a good job by all to finish up a busy week.

did their duty and children came along and the family tree branches grew. Family-specific name tags noted which Watson mother you came from, so it made for easy starter conversations. It was a large gathering with Watsons everywhere enjoying games and chatter, great food and family fun. Thank you Norm and crew - well done.

The traditional Father’s Day feast at the Brussels fire hall was delicious and well-attended, just as expected. Good job you fire and rescue people, we appreciate your time spent on our behalf in fire prevention, fire safety and fire suppression. Then you turn around and feed us so very well. Thank you.

Lara was at work last week and heard a strange noise, which increased in volume. She went outside (Foxton’s key lock) west of Listowel to see the noted Lancaster flying in range. She took a few phone photos and, upon checking them, one was a prize. In the frame, a large bird, possibly a hawk, was more prominent than the Lancaster.

It was a nice surprise, as her focus had been on the plane, the bird just happened to be in flight right there.

Very neat.

We’ve hit the last days of this school year for the elementary and secondary school gangs. The lastminute studies are done, the graduation pictures are processed, the lost-and-found box emptied and the backpacks cleared and ready for a rest. I hope it was a good year with more good memories

than bad to hold onto.

Check the market on Friday and enjoy the vendors’ offerings. Then, on Saturday, a car show at Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre has some impressive vehicles for display - check that out as well.

Bye now. Betty GW

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS Celebrating A Special Occasion?

Advertise it in

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

Brussels Legion 218 Catch the Ace Weekly Winner Winning Ticket: Don Chesher, $161.

Envelope #34 found the 3 of Spades.

Next estimated jackpot is $3,500.

Thank Y Yoou! to everyone who attended our annual Firefighters' Breakfast on Father's Day D and for the generous donations receivedd.

Yoour continuing support is grreeatly appprreciated.

B Brussels l Firefighte Fi fi hters

BRUSSELS LIONS Olde Tyme

12

JULY 21, 2004 1:00pm to 4:00pm BMG Community Center Brussels Registration open from 11:20 to 1:30 or preregister at

www.brusselsfiddlejamboree.ca

We hope to see you there!

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 7.

The Reading Web with Cindy Norgate

R

umble, rumble. As I walked up a street in Goderich last Friday on a gorgeous June day, I heard a loud, rumbling sound from overhead. I turned my eyes toward the sky and there it was: the Lancaster bomber. Chills ran up my arms as my mind went toward, as best I could, the early 1940s when Canada was amid an Allied fight overseas. It was as though time stood still, for a moment, as I thought of how the men and women who fought so diligently must have surely felt during this time of terror.

It is not possible for me to fully know, however, it would be a disservice, I truly believe, if we didn’t continue to share this information with our youth.

It is quite difficult to get most children and teens interested in

history. I would dare to say about 80 per cent of them say history is boring, although that isn’t a researched percentage. I have been enthralled with history (and politics) since I was a little girl, so this seems odd to me, but most North American children don’t feel the way I do. I accept that, however, what troubles me is that more and more adults are becoming disinterested, too. Let’s ask ourselves, why should history interest us? Why is it important?

After all, it is in the past.

For this question, I read an interesting article on the website Historicengland.org.uk about this topic titled, “The importance of local history and heritage projects in pupils’ learning”. The article mentioned several reasons to teach children history, so I will only name

a few that stood out to me. Children should understand how and why their local community has developed in the way it has. Learning history will also help them to develop a sense of identity and pride in where they live. Lastly, learning about historical events can strengthen your child’s appreciation for the freedoms they have now. There are many other reasons I found in other articles, and this is a topic I could write a lot about, but I will leave you with those three reasons.

At this point, you might be thinking, “This sounds great, but how do I get my child interested?”

I’m so glad you asked! I would suggest, first, to pique your child’s interest at an early age. This is when children’s minds are like sponges.

They want to know. They are

interested to know. Your child also needs to see that you, too, are excited.

Krisharris.medium.com suggests some fun ways to get the historic ball rolling with your child. Make it visual. Share photos, videos and ancestor information, and visit museums or historical sites, just to name a few. Break out those smartphones and allow your child to use the audio or video recording to lead an interview with a grandparent or grandparent figure in their life.

Another idea, and this is very important and probably the most difficult, is to make it relevant. The website states you don’t have to go back to ancient history, but, instead, share age-appropriate news stories, talk about current historical ideas such as the appointment of the first Indigenous Governor General of Canada or how the development of the Canadarm had “health-related spin-off technologies that improve our quality of life”.

This week’s book choice is Malala’s Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai (2017). According to

Amazon, “As a child in Pakistan, Malala made a wish for a magic pencil. She would use it to make everyone happy, to erase the smell of garbage from her city, to sleep an extra hour in the morning. But as she grew older, Malala saw that there were more important things to wish for. She saw a world that needed fixing. And even if she never found a magic pencil, Malala realized that she could still work hard every day to make her wishes come true.

“This beautifully illustrated volume tells Malala's story for a younger audience and shows them the worldview that allowed Malala to hold on to hope even in the most difficult of times.” This book is appropriate for children between the ages of four and eight.

As I leave it here for this week, it is my great hope that you will take time with your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews to share something about Canada’s great contributions. It is imperative for those future workers, leaders, and voters to be well informed, so they can be contributing members of society.

“The farther back you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” - Sir Winston Churchill

YOU ARE INVITED! Vacation Bible School Zion Mennonite Fellowship Church

44902 Cranbrook Road (2 1/2 miles east of Cranbrook)

Tuesday, July 2 to Thursday, July 11 9:00 am to 11:30 am Ages: 4-14

Happy birthday!

Summer is here

By Deb Hakkers Well, summer has arrived with the first heat warning of the season!

Plants will need lots of watering, but they are growing rapidly, so maybe the heat will slow the grass down, as it is constantly needing to be cut.

We spent last Saturday evening with the Hakkers side of the family at the “I Do” barbecue for Shelby Hakkers and Brian Nuetel. There was a great turnout and everyone enjoyed the games, as well as the food. Evelyn and Ron parked their camper at our place, so it was great to have some time to visit with them on Sunday morning.

The countdown is on to the end of school with the kids getting more and more excited each day ready for summer.

This week, we wish a happy birthday to Jenna McDonald on June 22, happy 90th birthday to Bodie Craig, also on June 22, Quinton Hakkers and Kari Hakkers on June 24, and Jerrica Hakkers on June 26. We hope everyone enjoys their special day!

This week we also wish a happy 50th anniversary to Evelyn and Les Caldwell on June 22 and a happy

anniversary to Anne and Dave Cottel, also on June 22.

If there is anything special you would like mentioned in this column, e-mail mcraig1@tcc.on.ca or call 519-525-8640 (evenings only please).

Until next week, take care of yourselves and each other and stay safe in the heat!

NEWS FROM BLYTH

Blyth resident Marie Bromley recently celebrated her 90th birthday at the Belgrave Community Centre with many family members and friends. (John Stephenson photo)

Dear Parents/Family: The children will be sharing a program on Thursday evening, July 11, 2024.

Further information will be sent home with your children.

Everyone is welcome to join us for refreshments following the program.

QUESTIONS??

Call James Weber 519-591-1841

MAITLAND VALLEY CAMERA CLUB

Photography by Gayle Jaycock

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Sports Londesborough’s U21 team wins battle of the Legends

A day to remember It was Seaforth Minor Ball Day on Saturday, with nearly a dozen games scheduled in the community to keep baseball fans busy for hours upon hours. Above, the Londesborough U9 team played Seaforth, while below, it was a game between the Seaforth U9 Blue and Yellow teams. (John Stephenson photos)

On June 15, four Londesborough teams were part of Seaforth Baseball Day. The U7 Purple, U9, U11 and U13 Boys teams all took on their counterparts from Seaforth, though scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

On June 13, the U21 team played the Listowel Legends in Londesborough and won by a score of 13-9, while, that same night, the U7 Yellow team played Wingham 2 in Londesborough, though a score was unavailable at press time.

The night before the U9 team played to a 6-6 tie with the Elma BB team in Atwood, while the U13 Girls beat the Listowel Legends Snider team in Londesborough by a score of 14-6. Also that night, the U11 team played the Elma BB team in Londesborough, though a score was unavailable at press time.

On June 11, the U9 team hosted Sebringville II and won by a score of 9-4. Also that night, the U7 Purple team played Benmiller on the road and the U13 Boys played Twin Centre AA on the road, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

On June 10, the U13 Girls lost to the Elma Express 1 team on the road by a score of 13-2. Also that night, the U13 Boys played Wilmot III in Londesborough, though a score for that game was unavailable at press time.

Looking ahead, tonight, June 21, the U13 Girls will host the Clinton Mustangs in Londesborough.

On Monday, June 24, the U7 Purple team will play Brussels on the road, the U7 Yellow team will travel to Ethel, the U13 Boys will host Wilmot II and the U21 team will play the Goderich Seahawks and Bannister Park.

The next night, the U9 team will play Sebringville II on the road.

Then, on June 26, the U11 team will host Milverton while the U13 Girls team will be in Blyth to play the Blyth Gritty’s team and the U13 Boys will play Wilmot II in Auburn.

Then, on June 27, the U7 Yellow team will host Wingham I. On June 18, the U9 team hosted Elma AA and the U13 Boys team was on the road to play Elma II, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

There were three games on the schedule for June 19. The U11 team hosted Sebringville, the U9 team was on the road to play Sebringville II and the U13 Girls hosted the Elma Express II team. The next night, the U7 Purple team hosted Wingham, the U13 Boys played Shakespeare on the road and the U21 team welcomed the Innerkip Junior Eagles to Londesborough, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen On Monday night, the U21 Londesborough Legends were in Listowel to play their fellow Legends and came away with a 126 win.

Also that night, the U13 Boys played Shakespeare at home and the U7 Yellow team travelled to Brussels for a game, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

Summer Sports Pages Coaches and parents We need your team's picture and players' names 1. Please submit team photo A.S.A.P. 2. Please include players' and coaches' names for under photo.

Brussel

sP

re Mite: Back ro w, from left: Co row: Ai aches: de Brooke DeWit. n Albers, Conn lyn Jo Front ro or w: Hayd Kellington, Co hnston, Mat Shor tre t Sh ed. en Bene rn dict, Ad elius Versteeg ortreed, Patri cia Beue el Fisc her, Br , Ty Somers, Br rmann. ook Be Middle uerman idget McCall um n, Jesa Fische , Ryker r, Conn or

• Soccer • Baseball • Lacrosse

Please help us get ALL the summer sports teams published.

The Citizen

405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 9.

Sports U13 Girls beat Listowel On Monday night, the Brussels U13 Girls made a statement at home, defeating the Listowel Legends Snider team by a score of 13-0 as the local baseball season continues throughout June.

Also that night, the U15 Girls were not so lucky, losing to the Seaforth Wolverines on the road by a score of 17-7. The U7 Red team hosted Ethel that night and the U7 Black team played Londesborough 1 in Brussels, the U9 Red team played Benmiller on the road and the U13 Boys welcomed Benmiller to Brussels, though scores were unavailable at press time.

Back on June 13, the U11 Boys beat Lucknow on the road by a score of 7-6. One night earlier, the U9 Black team beat Wingham on the road by a score of 20-14 and the U11 Girls beat the Mitchell Hornets Broughton team, also on the road, by a score of 11-4. The U9 Red team played Ethel on the road that night and the U13 Boys played Wingham, also on the road, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

On June 11, the U17 Boys were in Sebringville and won by a score of 15-11, while the U15 Girls lost to the Mitchell Hornets Eisler team at home by a score of 14-7. Also that night, the U9 Red team hosted the Wingham Blue team and the U7 Black team played the Wingham II team on the road, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

The U17 Boys beat Fullarton by a score of 16-8 at home on June 10 the same night the U13 Girls beat the Seaforth Wolverines, also at home, by a score of 16-6.

Also that night, the U11 Girls lost to the Listowel Legends Beirnes team on the road by a score of 10-5.

The U7 Red team welcomed Wingham 1 to Brussels that night, but a score for that game was unavailable at press time.

Looking ahead, there are four home games on the schedule for Monday, June 24. The U7 Black team will play Londesborough II, the U13 Boys will play Wingham, the U13 Girls will play the Goderich Seahawks Lemon team and the U17 Boys will play Tavistock.

The next night, the U5 Black team will travel to play Wingham II for some T-ball action, while the U9 Red team will host the Wingham Orange team and the U9 Black team will make its way to Ethel.

On June 26, the U11 Girls will host the Elma Express II team and the U11 Boys will play Benmiller, also at home.

On June 18, the U7 Red team played Wingham 1 on the road, the U9 Black and Red teams played each other, the U15 Girls welcomed the Clinton Mustangs to Brussels and the U17 Boys travelled to Fullarton, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

The next night, the U11 Boys hosted Lucknow and the U11 Girls were on the road to play the Elma Express 1 team, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time. The U9 Black team was scheduled to play Wingham on the road, but that game was cancelled.

On June 20, four Brussels teams were on the road. The U13 Girls played the Clinton Mustangs, the U11 Girls played the Listowel Legends Card team, the U11 Boys played Wingham and the U17 Boys played Cambridge, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

The Citizen

A big swing The Brussels Tigers remain tied for first place in the Huron County Fastball League standings with a perfect 4-0 record, while their village counterparts, the Brussels Bangers, seen above playing Fullarton, sit in ninth place in the standings with a record of 1-3. (John Stephenson photo)

Stingers to play Tigers Continued from page 1 the Belmore Stingers will play the Brussels Tigers in Mitchell, a home game for the Tigers.

On June 27, the Brussels Bangers will be in Milverton for a game with the Millwrights and then, the

next night, Milverton will be back in action, this time in Goderich to play the Grizzlies.

On June 17, the Belmore Stingers were in Goderich to play the Grizzlies in a game that was moved from July 12, but a score for that

Neew Su ummer m

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game was unavailable at press time.

On June 19, Wingham was in Mitchell to play the Mets, Fullarton travelled to Brussels to play the Tigers and Goderich played Elmira in Linwood, but scores were unavailable at press time.

check out our me

40035 BLY TH ROAD, BLY TH, ON N0M 1H0

PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Lucknow demolition derby pleases crowd

Appetite for carnage As part of the Dungannon Super Pull weekend, a demolition derby roared and returned to Graceland in Lucknow on Friday, June 14. The annual smash ‘em up for a good cause drew in a huge crowd who witnessed organized chaos orchestrated with precision excellence by the Kinsmen Club of Lucknow and District. (Scott Stephenson photos)

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen The Dungannon Super Pull and Demo Derby just celebrated its 23rd anniversary weekend with another impressive demonstration of the horsepower arts. This is the second year that the Super Pull has been held at its new location at Graceland in Lucknow, after the event grew too popular to remain at the Dungannon Fairgrounds where it was founded. On Friday night, there was a very well-attended demolition derby that featured machines of all sizes getting their chance to destroy each other, and Saturday was devoted entirely to the original attraction: the Super Pull. There were also expanded kid’s activities, live music, camping and a multitude of food trucks from which to choose.

The demolition derby was a new addition to the Super Pull last year,

and was an instant hit with crowds.

This year, the derby went even bigger with more combines, and even smaller by adding a lawnmower smash-up to the cavalcade of carnage. Lawnmowers may have less powerful engines than the average derby entrant, but that doesn’t make it any less thrilling to watch them duke it out.

When it came to the cars, there were many ruffled combatants raring to go. Each heat consisted of a ‘Figure 8’ race, in which the first two cars to complete 15 laps got to move on to the final and consolation rounds, respectively.

Each round saw crowds start rooting for a new underdog, rallying around another beat-down car hoping to start one last time after stalling, and cheering for the eventual winner. By the time it got to the “demo” part of the derby, there were clear crowd favourites, which made the entire battle royale

very satisfying. The award for bestlooking vehicle went to Number 32 - the Big White Possum.

The evening came to a stirring Continued on page 11

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 11.

Graceland hosts another great Dungannon Super Pull

For those about to pull The grounds at Graceland in Lucknow were up to the challenge of hosting another action-packed Dungannon Super Pull. The guitarist in AC/DC tribute band 21 Gun Salute sound checked against a back drop of roaring engines before the band closed out festivities on Saturday, June 15. (Scott Stephenson photos) Continued from page 10 end with a great performance from what is hands-down the best Tragically Hip tribute band in the country - The Practically Hip. Saturday brought with it beautifully summery weather for the Super Pull itself. Souped-up and standard vehicles from near and far came out to the clay track that was laid at Graceland last year to see who could pull what. The deepfried onions were blooming and the black smoke was pluming as the day turned to night amidst the effluent efforts of trucks, tractors and other miscellaneous machines.

The evening’s musical entertainment was provided by one of the only tribute bands out there that can compete with the cacophony of the Super Pull - 21 Gun Salute, who treated the crowd to their take on the music of AC/DC. Ashfield-Colborne-Wawanosh Councillor Evan Hickey attended the Super Pull on Saturday, and was impressed by this year’s event, and how many people it attracted.

“Camping doubled from last year, they had over 400 sites this year for camping. Attendance was up 1,000 over last year, there were over 7,000 guests... Saturday, the Super Pull had an increase in American pullers, it seemed all day, anytime you heard over the speakers, someone was coming from Pennsylvania. It was a common place they were coming from. It was a huge success.”

The Super Pull weekend just seems to keep growing in

popularity, and each year means more and more volunteers have come together to pull off such a grand event that brings in international competitors. Longterm Dungannon Super Pull attendee Morgan Gregory was there last weekend, and seeing what the event has evolved into makes her both proud and nostalgic. “This all started as a way to memorialize a friend’s dad,” she said. “It’s great to see it so huge and so successful, but I miss how it was back in Dungannon too. I look around and I don’t know anybody - but then I see my Dungannon crew, and it’s like, the same again.”

The fascination with the Super Pull and demolition derby can seem confusing to those who’ve never been, but it’s easy to understand once you’ve attended one. Those who work closely with machines get to know them well, and sometimes, they want to see what they can do. It’s a tradition that continues to evolve as a showcase of both an individual’s mechanical mastery, and the raw power of all manner of machines. It aspires towards unconventional goals and extreme performance, and fosters an adrenaline-infused sense of community spirit. It’s a competition that draws a diverse crowd that is united by their shared passion for machines, blended with the visceral thrill of destruction. The Super Pull’s origin comes from a deep connection to the agricultural heritage of rural life, and no matter how big it gets, that will always be at its heart.

Correction - Yu In the June 14 issue of The Citizen, dancer Gabby Yu’s name was printed incorrectly in the feature articles on pages two and

three. The Citizen regrets the error and any confusion it may have caused. Good luck at the competition, Gabby!

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PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

CHSS Co-op program serves appreciation breakfast

The most important meal (From left) Brandon Dalton, Noah Robinson, Chastity Caeser; Shawn Wijnsma, Linda Street; John Neutal, Mike Dietz; and Shane Taylor at the biannual CHSS Co-op appreciation breakfast on Wednesday, June 12.

(Scott Stephenson photo)

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

For many years, Central Huron Secondary School (CHSS) has been offering high school students the chance to gain valuable work experience with local businesses through its popular co-op program.

Participating in a co-op not only lets students explore potential career paths they find interesting before entering their postsecondary life, it allows them to build community connections and those connections then spark professional passion in young people. Over the years, it has become a CHSS tradition to hold a bi-annual breakfast to show appreciation for all the hardworking supervisors, teachers, employers and students who make the program such a success. One such morning meal transpired last Wednesday, in celebration of this year’s semester.

Mike Dietz of Diesel & Sons Electric Ltd in Bayfield participated in the program for the first time this year and found it to be an allaround positive experience. “It’s been good - it’s been really good!

It’s been a pretty seamless process... there’s nothing bad to say about it - I’d definitely do it again.”

He credited the program’s organizers for making it easy for employers to participate. “They pretty well take care of everything, to be honest with you.” Dietz also really enjoyed the appreciation breakfast. “It was awesome!” he exclaimed.

CHSS student John Neutel received on-the-job training in household wiring, mounting electrical boxes, installing lights and a variety of other skills that will be a real leg-up if he chooses to pursue a career as an electrician.

Neutel learned a lot through the training he received at Diesel & Sons. “It’s been a great experience,” he said. “Love it.”

Following his co-op, he started an apprenticeship at Fanshawe College. “Regularly, you can’t do it until you’ve been at the job site for two years, and now I’m doing it in high school. It’s a big step ahead.”

After the apprenticeship, he hopes to get his licence so he can start brightening people’s lives. As for this up-and-coming electrician’s opinion on his well-earned breakfast? “It was really good.”

Many semesters’ worth of students looking to learn more about a career in healthcare have done their co-op at the nearby Clinton Public Hospital, where they learn by interacting with patients and observing the various procedures of a working rural hospital. This year, hospital staff counted three students among their ranks. Janine DeJong is a Registered Nurse at CPH, as well as the team leader of the hospital’s Emergency Room and In-Patient

Unit. “They've been great students this semester,” she explained. “It’s just a great opportunity for them to be able to have exposure to different disciplines in the healthcare system. They’ve been able to shadow nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work, diagnostic imaging, x-ray, and ultrasound.”

DeJong is happy to be part of the student learning experience every year. “It’s an amazing opportunity for students to have exposure to different job opportunities and different workplaces that they may or may not be interested in, so they can learn and make a decision for their future…. And the breakfast is great!”

Linda Street recognizes how advantageous it is to have co-op students around. Street handles sales and marketing for The Benmiller Inn, and she appreciates how much they can contribute to the guest experience. The inn has trained young people in all facets of the hospitality industry, and this semester, Grade 11 student Shawn Wijnsma was chosen to focus on

the culinary side of the business.

“Shawn has an amazing knowledge of the kitchen and how it operates, how to add to it, and how to make things flow smoothly,” assessed Street.

Wijnsma spent his co-op learning kitchen safety, cooking, pressure management, customer service skills, and the value of making delicious food. He’s even spent some time running the entire kitchen! Street added, “Shawn just basically picked up the ball and ran with it - he did an amazing job of leading the crew that’s in the kitchen.”

Wijnsma has really risen to the challenge of working in a bustling kitchen, but he’s not ready to commit to life on the line. “I like cooking, and I’d already worked there for a little while before this, so it was an opportunity for me at the time. It’s not what I want to do with the rest of my life, but I enjoyed doing it... I really enjoyed the cooking - it’s just the hours that aren’t the best. Working nights and weekends isn’t so fun when you’re young!” Wijnsma and Street both

confessed that they enjoyed the breakfast.

Robert’s Farm Equipment is known for its excellent customer service, and the one who keeps all that excellence in order is Chasity Caesar, service writer. She schedules the appointments and organizes the days of the team of technicians that keep essential farm equipment up and running during the crucial growing season.

Students at Robert’s get to spend time working alongside qualified technicians, learning how to fix farm equipment, and Caesar found that this season’s assistants were a welcome addition to the team.

“I like to joke around with them, and they took to that pretty well.

We’re a pretty close-knit crew at Robert’s Farm Equipment, and they were able to fit in very well.” One of the students, Noah Robinson will be starting an apprenticeship there in July. Caesar also felt the breakfast was a great event. “It’s really awesome that they did this for all the people helping out the co-op students. It’s a pretty cool experience to be here.”

Robinson, who also enjoyed the breakfast, spent his childhood on a farm, which inspired his current post-secondary trajectory. “Ever since I was a little kid I’ve been around tractors, and that’s always kind of where I wanted to go.” Working at Robert’s felt like a natural choice. “I went in as a co-op student in February, and over the past few months, I’ve really enjoyed it. I got the opportunity for an apprenticeship there, so I’ll start my career there.”

Shane Taylor, the head of the Coop Department at CHSS, expressed gratitude to all who had come for the breakfast. “We’ve got an amazing group of high school kids and supervisors this semester, and we want to thank all of you.

Without supervisors and co-op placements, we don’t have anywhere for our kids to go.

Without you guys, none of this works. We have 40 teachers in the building who are mentors, and we have 40 supervisors in the community. It takes a village to raise a kid.”

39th Annual Citizen of the Year Award Nominations Open Pictured on left, Wayne Clausius being presented his 2023 Citizen of the Year award by North Huron Publishing publisher Deb Sholdice.

There are so many people out there who do so much to improve their community.

This is your opportunity to show your appreciation for all they do.

Each year a committee chooses an outstanding citizen from each of the Blyth and area and Brussels and area communities and wider Huron County area to receive an award for contribution to the community. If you know someone you think should be honoured, please fill in the form and send it in. You may attach a longer explanation of why you think your nominee should win, if you like. If you have nominated someone before and they didn't win, we encourage you to submit again. Emailed submissions can be sent to Shawn Loughlin at editor@northhuron.on.ca I nominate ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ as Citizen of the year for

q

Blyth & area

q

Brussels & area

q

Huron County

I feel she/he deserves this award because ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Nomination Deadline September 27, 2024.

Name and phone number of nominator Fax: 519-523-9140 Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 13.

BLYTH Y 519-523-4244

+XURQ7UDFWRU FRP

519-523-4311

www.ruralvoice e.ca

OFA raising awareness about rural crime

By Paul Maurice, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture Crime is a reality for all Ontarians, regardless of whether they live in rural or urban areas.

That’s particularly true of visible issues like theft, trespassing, or property damage, but fraud, cyber crimes, human trafficking and domestic violence - while less visible - are also cause for concern and vigilance.

There used to be somewhat of a perception that rural areas were safer or less of a target, but that is no longer the case, so it’s important to be aware of possible risks and to take steps to protect yourself and others in your community.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) works hard to raise awareness of rural crime and ensure farmers and rural residents know how to minimize or prevent these kinds of occurrences. This includes working with law enforcement and partners like Crime Stoppers, known for their anonymous tip lines where people who’ve witnessed a crime can make a report, as well as for the cash rewards they pay if a tip leads to a crime being solved.

To help get the message out, the OFA is hosting an upcoming webinar with Sarah Bowers-Peter, program co-ordinator with Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington, who will talk about the organization’s role as an intermediary between the public and police, as well as highlight key types of crimes that people could be exposed to and should be aware of.

Fraud is a growing challenge across society in general, and rural residents are as vulnerable as anyone else to being targets of phishing scams, hacking, misrepresentative e-mails or attempts to swindle them out of money.

Along with that are general risks that come with living in an increasingly digital, connected world, including farms where more and more digital systems are being implemented. Cyber security incidents, whether it’s compromised information, financial fraud or data that is held hostage until a ransom is paid, are on the rise.

Outdated, unmaintained systems running old software no longer being updated are among the most common vulnerabilities and these are widespread, especially in small

businesses - and this includes farms, where research shows that 90 per cent of farming systems aren’t up to date and have no software patching or updating policy.

Theft is an ongoing threat in rural areas as criminals are becoming more brazen, helping themselves to vehicles, equipment, livestock and more. Along with that, incidents of trespassing into fields for recreational activities or to grab that perfect selfie, as well as illegal dumping of everything from garbage and building materials to contaminated soil, are becoming more prevalent.

I’m a farmer and a director on the board of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture representing farmers in York, Peel and Simcoe, and that’s certainly the case in these regions.

That’s why rural residents are encouraged to be vigilant, post clearly-visible “No Trespassing” signs and invest in lights and alarms to make it harder for intruders to remain unseen.

As well, it pays to install good quality locks on buildings and to never leave keys in vehicles, tractors, ATVs or forklifts, for example, as they are tempting targets. And try to resist the

temptation of posting on social media when you’re going to be away.

Less visible, but definitely happening across the province, are crimes like human trafficking and domestic violence. It’s not something that is widely talked about, which makes it easier to take place, and many people don’t know what signs to look for. Here too, Crime Stoppers or law enforcement can be a way to report suspicious activity anonymously and confidentially.

Preventing crime is always better than apprehending someone after a crime has been committed, so it

pays to be informed and aware of what the risks are. The OFA has a tip sheet on protecting your farm against theft and trespassers, as well as a recording of a cyber security webinar. Both are available at ofa.on.ca, as is registration for the Crime Stoppers webinar on June 26.

If you see suspicious activity, consider having it checked out by reporting it to the OPP at 1-888310-1122. If you have an observation or information that may help solve a crime, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or via their website online at https://ontariocrimestoppers.ca/ submit-a-tip/submit-a-tip.

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK REPORT For the week ending June 14, 2024 Total Receipts: 1,525 cattle; 1,541 lambs, sheep, and goats Tuesday – Fed cattle sold easier. Cows sold actively at prices $8 - $12 higher.

High yielding bulls sold $10 - $15 higher.

Thursday – Veal sold actively at stronger prices due to holiday influence. Drop calves sold steady.

Lambs, sheep and goats sold on a strong active trade at steady prices.

Friday – Calves and yearlings sold on a steady trade.

Fed Cattle: There were 135 fed cattle on offer: Choice Fed Cattle: $235 – $246 Second Cut Fed Cattle: $225 – $234 Aged and Medium Fed Cattle: $204 – $222 Holstein Fed Cattle: $180 – $222 David B. Hoover of Wallenstein, consigned 17 head. Three fats averaged 1,487 lbs. and sold for $246.

Bill Finlay of Durham, consigned 17 head. Five fats averaged 1,754 lbs. and sold for an average price of $236.

Cows: There were 275 cows on offer: Beef Cows: $140 – $168 Good Holstein Cows: $146 – $164 up to $183 Medium Holstein Cows: $138 – $145 Bulls: $184 – $213 Lamondeen Farms Ltd. of Ripley, consigned two head. One charolais cow weighed 1,895 lbs. and sold for $168.

Wikkemaat Farms Inc. of Listowel, consigned two head. One holstein cow weighed 1,170 lbs. and sold for $167.

Veal: There were 185 veal and 30 bob calves on offer: Beef Veal: $275 – $282 Good Holsteins: $245 – $257 Sl. Heavy Holsteins: $240 – $250 Heavy Holsteins: $225 – $250 Medium Holsteins: $230 – $244 Plain Holsteins: $220 – $229 Holstein Drop Calves: $550 – $1,225 / HEAD Wade Armstrong of Ripley, consigned four head. One black veal weighed 685 lbs. and sold for $282.

John and Cheryl Bennewies of Bornholm, consigned three head. One holstein veal weighed 705 lbs. and sold for $257.

Van Nuland Holsteins Ltd. of Monkton, consigned eight head. One holstein bob calf brought $1,225 Lambs: Under 50 lbs.: $275 – $305 50-64 lbs.: $297.50 – $313 up to $327.50 65-79 lbs.: $293 – $370 up to $397.50 80-94 lbs.: $374 – $396 95-109 lbs.: $357.50 – $389 110 lbs. and over: $185 – $350 Sheep: $147 – $220 up to $245 Jason Veenstra of Clinton, consigned 22 head. Eleven lambs averaged 87 lbs. and sold for an average price of $396.

Jordan and Julia Fisher of Goderich, consigned 32 head. Eleven lambs averaged 94 lbs. and sold for an average price of $392.50.

Goats: Meat Kids: $600 – $655 Dairy Kids: $500 – $600 Mature Bucks: $300 – $400 Mature Does: $172 – $340 Dennis Dietz of Mildmay, consigned 10 head. Three kid goats averaged 78 lbs. and sold for an average price of $655.

Marcus Gaehwiler of New Liskeard, consigned eight head. Three kid goats averaged 61 lbs. and sold for an average price of $630.

Stockers: There were 900 stockers on offer: Top Quality Steers: Under 400 lbs.: Too few to establish a market 400 – 499 lbs.: $390 – $490 500 – 599 lbs.: $297.50 – $430 up to $462.50 600 – 699 lbs.: $302.50 – $445 700 – 799 lbs.: $305 – $390 800 – 899 lbs.: $297.50 – $360 900 – 999 lbs.: $295 – $320 up to $332 1,000 lbs. and over: $285 – $317.50 up to $318.50

Aaron Bowman of Wallenstein, consigned 17 head. Ten charolais steers averaged 1,004 lbs. and sold for an average price of $317.50.

Garry Falconer of Teeswater, consigned seven head. Two black heifers averaged 708 lbs. and sold for an average price of $341.

Samuel M. Sherk of Wroxeter, consigned 22 head. Eight charolais heifers averaged 948 lbs. and sold for an average price of $287.25.

Top Quality Heifers: Under 400 lbs.: Too few to establish a market 400 – 499 lbs.: $250 – $420 500 – 599 lbs.: $202.50 – $356 up to $375 600 – 699 lbs.: $304 – $370 700 – 799 lbs.: $230 – $310 up to $341 800 – 899 lbs.: $265 – $290 900 lbs. and over: $246.50 – $275 up to $287.25

Ornan Martin of Elmira consigned 22 head. Ten charolais heifers averaged 994 lbs. and sold for an average price of $273.

Shawn Barr of Pakenham consigned 17 head. Four charolais steers averaged 630 lbs and sold for an average price of $445.00.

THURSDAYS

Earl Albrecht of Newton, consigned eight head. Seven black steers averaged 879 lbs. and sold for an average price of $323.

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK Division of Gamble & Rogers Ltd.

UPCOMING SALES TUESDAYS 10:00 a.m.

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

FRIDAYS

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

Call us 519-887-6461

PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Classified Advertising – RATES – 20 words or less only $9.00 + HST Additional words 25¢ ea. + HST

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

Articles for sale FOR SALE - 28 foot Case IH Disc.

22" blades front back. Like new. $22,000. 519-526-7521 or cell 519441-2642, evenings.

------------------------------------------GERBERS FIREWOOD SERVING you for over 15 years. Your number one source of quality slabwood and bodywood. Delivery available. No Sunday calls. 519-274-1236, 519441-2085.

------------------------------------------SHADE TREES, SPRUCE, White Pine, Cedars, windbreaks and privacy hedges, Shrubs, Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Sweet & sour Cherry Trees at (Emanuel E.M. Martin) Martin's Nursery 42661 Orangehill Rd, Wroxeter ON N0G 2X0.

------------------------------------------THE CITIZEN IS AVAILABLE TO purchase at these locations - Auburn Esso, Belgrave Variety, Blyth Food Market, Blyth Variety, Blyth Ultramar, Brussels Foodland, Brussels Variety, Clinton Convenience, Clinton Foodland, Fogal's YIG (Wingham), Wingham Mini Mart, Seaforth Foodland, Fincher's (Goderich), Goderich Victoria St Shell, Canadian Tire Gas Bar, Goderich and The Citizen office in Blyth.

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

Card of thanks BROMLEY - Thank you for helping celebrate my 90th birthday! I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, well wishes, cards and beautiful gifts I received for my 90th birthday. Special thanks to my family for arranging a wonderful party, and to my grandchildren for the wonderful lift chair they surprised me with.

Everyone's kind gestures and warm wishes have touched my heart deeply. It means the world to me to have such wonderful family and friends, some who travelled a great distance to make this milestone celebration truly special. Your presence in my life is a true blessing and I'm grateful beyond words.

Thank you all for making my 90th birthday unforgettable. Blessings to all, Marie Bromley.

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

Coming events Join the Wingham Columbus Centre for our Homecoming events. On Saturday, June 29th, Famous Fish Fry from 4 pm - 7 pm, Battered or grilled white fish and a buffet of salads, potatoes, coffee and butter tarts. Tickets are $20 adult and $10 for kids 12 and under. Also, on Sunday June 30th for a Brunch from 11 am - 1 pm. A great assortment of breakfast and lunch fare and lots of desserts. Tickets are $25 adult and $12.50 for kids. Tickets for both available at the Columbus Centre, 99 Kerr Drive, or by calling 519-3571270 and have them held at the door for you.

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

Looking for work?

Check out the classifieds!

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

Help wanted Help wanted Ontario Dairy Goat Co-operative, Teeswater is hiring an

Operations Coordinator Please view the full job description on our website: www.ontariodairygoat.com or indeed.com Submit resume by email to: lindsay@ontariodairygoat.com We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

In memoriam PRESCOTT - In loving memory of Venice Prescott who left us June 18, 2019 The sun still rises in the east, And darkness falls at night, Nothing seems quite the same, Each day is not so bright, The birds still sing, The flowers grow, The breeze still whispers too, But it will never ever be The same world without you.

It's been 5 years since you've gone, And now on this very day, We bring dad's ashes to rest with you, So together again you may lay.

Forever loved and missed by your family -------------------------------------------

Did someone do something special for you?

Send them a special thank you in

The Citizen Call or email us today for the details

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

Citizen-To-Citizen “SWAP SHOP” ad Call 519-523-4792 or email: info@northhuron.on.ca • Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Price must be included in your ad.Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster!

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

--------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Allied 660 loader was on 4600 Ford. $800. 519-368-7778.

25-3 --------------------------------------------FOR SALE - New Holland 479 Haybine parts. Also fits 469, 488.

519-395-2225 24-3 --------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Walnut dining room set $150. Table 4’8” long with extensions. 3’2” wide; six chairs, buffet (sideboard) 34” high x 59” wide; china cabinet 5’2’ high x 20” wide; corner unit 26” wide x 6’ high x 14” deep. Phone 519-357-3117.

24-3 --------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Pro Form CR610 Treadmill.

Heavy duty, programmable, digital display, personal training programs. Displays heart rate, distance and time, multiple incline settings. Top folds down for storage or moving. 519-887-8046 $200. or best offer.

23-3 --------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Light weight cart/dolly, $25; Kool a Tron cooler - has 12 volt/120 volt plug in, $60; computer desk (52” wide x 26” deep) will fit in a corner and chair, $100; all prices are negotiable. Pickup in Blyth. Call 519525-1863 or 519-441-7217.

23-3 --------------------------------------------FOR SALE - Radley self propelled push mower, rear wheel drive, 170 cc engine, 21” cut. Bought last year, only used once, Pickup in Wingham.

Asking $275. Call 905-571-3415 leave a message and I’ll get back to you.

23-3

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

And... go!

The Bluevale Community Committee recently held a special tractor pull and cornhole tournament in an effort to raise funds for the Bluevale 170th anniversary homecoming celebration, scheduled for the weekend of Aug. 9-11. (John Stephenson photo)

Breckenridge wins PEOPLE AROUND BELGRAVE

By Linda Campbell Call 357-2188

The card results for June 14 are: high gold card, Fran Breckenridge; most shoots gold card, Brenda Brooks; high white card, Roy Finch, and most shoots white card, Gayle Neil.

Cards will be played again on Friday, June 28 at 1 p.m. at the Belgrave Community Centre.

Everyone is welcome.

Knox United Church in Belgrave was invited to join Wingham United Church on Sunday, Father’s Day, June 16 for Church in the Barn at the farm of Alan and Laurie Willits.

Rev. Colin Snyder welcomed the congregation and reported on the life and work of the church before lighting the Christ Candle.

Rev. Colin read scripture readings from Mark 4:26-34, The Parable of the Growing Seed and The Mustard Seed. His reflection was entitled “Sowing Good Seeds”.

We were entertained with two selections of special music by Bruce Robertson.

A delicious potluck lunch followed in the barn which was almost filled to capacity.

Hopefully everyone had a happy Father’s Day. There was lots to do.

Some took their dad out for breakfast or lunch; golfing and fishing seemed to be popular, as well as maybe getting together with

family. Some talked on the phone or had a FaceTime or some dads just relaxed. Whatever you did, I hope it was a fun day. The weatherman cooperated for outdoor activities.

The coffee break is on Tuesday, June 25 from 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. at the community centre. Come and enjoy fellowship, coffee and snacks. Everyone is welcome.

Birthday greetings are extended to Sharon Cameron on June 16.

Congratulations and best wishes to Ron and Marg Cook on their 50th wedding anniversary on June 22. Enjoy your day!

Renee Lanthier and husband Nick of Rochester, New York visited for a few days with their aunt, Arlyn Montgomery.

Our weather continues to be hot and dry with a chance of showers. It would be nice to get some rain for the gardens, lawns and farmers’ crops.

NEWS FROM BELGRAVE

THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 15.

Obituaries

ELEANOR FALCONER Mrs. Eleanor Falconer of Huronview and formerly of Tuckersmith Township passed away peacefully at Huronview Home for the Aged, Clinton, on Wednesday June 12, 2024, just nine days after her 97th birthday.

Eleanor was very proud of her family. She was the beloved wife of the late Frank Falconer (1995) and the loving mother of Janet and Larry McClinchey of Goderich, Joyce and Don Castanza of London, June and Ron Corriveau of Goderich, Jean and Brian Jewitt of Coldstream, and Les and Deb Falconer of Clinton.

She was the cherished grandmother of Shawn McClinchey, Scott (Heather) McClinchey, Sonya (Tyler) Brady, Cindy (Chris) Evans, Angie Castanza, Craig (Alyson) Corriveau, Colin Corriveau, Leanne (Mark) Corman, Laura (Adam) Carapella, Derek Falconer, Fraser Falconer, Sydney (Brett) Vanneste, and Graham (Andrew Rinehart) Falconer. Eleanor is also loved by 18 great grandchildren.

Eleanor was the last member of the Pepper family. She was predeceased by her siblings Harold, Norm, Cliff, Viola, Edith and Gladys.

Eleanor had a passion for quilting, gardening, arts and crafts, line dancing, cooking and bingo.

Friends will be received at the Falconer Funeral Homes, Clinton on Friday, June 21, from 11 a.m. until time of the funeral service at 1 p.m.

Interment at Clinton Cemetery.

As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations to the Parkinson’s Society of South Western Ontario, the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.

RICHARD DUNCAN FRITZ Richard Duncan Fritz passed away peacefully on June 14 in Brussels in his 76th year.

The loving partner of the late Jeannine Robillard, Rick was the proud dad of Dave Fritz (Kelly MacNeill). He was the adoring grandpa of Tyler (Carley), Jocelyn, and Rory (Connor).

Rick was the brother of Don Fritz (Marie) and he will be missed by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by siblings Jim (Barb), Brian (Marilyn), Marg (Doug).

Rick was born in Listowel, owning his own construction business in Kincardine and then, after retirement, working at Lake Huron Rod and Gun. He loved to hunt and fish on Lake Huron and chase geese in the side-by-side.

Rick liked chatting and catching up with everyone. He was genuinely interested in hearing what people had to say.

Rick was a loving dad and grandfather, never being afraid to let someone know how he felt. He taught his family to love one another unconditionally, to have a good work ethic and to be kind to those who needed it. He was very humorous, always cracking jokes and showing off his infectious smile. Rick was the proudest of his family and their accomplishments and he loved to visit and be part of family gatherings. His wonderful presence will be missed by many.

Cremation has taken place, A come-and-go celebration of Rick’s life will take place on Friday, June 28, starting at 2 p.m. at 43410 Moncrieff Road, Brussels.

In lieu of flowers and as expressions of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer society would be appreciated.

Condolences may be left at riversidefuneralhome.ca

private family interment will be held at Burn’s Cemetery, Hullett.

Donations to the Clinton Public Hospital Foundation or Seaforth Community Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.haskettfh.com.

RANDY BRIDGES At Wingham and District Hospital on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, Randy Bridges of Blyth passed away at the age of 66.

The devoted husband of Diane Bridges, Randy was the cherished son of Rudy Prihoda (June) and Winston Bridges and the late Lola Bridges. He was the dear brother of Karen and Leo Bridges, Lorie and Randy Turner of Bayfield, the late Gail Collett, Corry Prihoda and Michael Prihoda.

Randy will be missed by his nieces and nephews and their families.

A come-and-go celebration of Randy’s life will be held on Saturday, June 22 from 12-2 p.m. at the Turnberry Estates Clubhouse. A private burial will take place at Wingham Cemetery on Monday, June 24 at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to a charity of choice would be appreciated.

NH seeks report on public forum

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

It was a game of municipal musical chairs at the North Huron Council meeting on Monday, as Reeve Paul Heffer traded spots with Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer so he could discuss his previous notice of motion with the rest of council.

Heffer is angling for staff to prepare a report that would provide insight on how other municipalities have chosen to receive comments from the public.

“We’re always looking to improve our meetings,” Heffer explained. “I’m interested in seeing how other municipalities receive the public input, and I’d just like to see a report come back to see if we are aligned with other municipalities.” Heffer hopes that staff will return with suggestions that can make meetings run more smoothly, with more proactive engagement from all parties.

Councillor Chris Palmer wanted to know why Heffer had brought forth the motion. “Is it because you see a problem with the way it is now?” he asked. Currently, anybody who wishes to speak during the public comment section of a North Huron meeting is allotted two minutes to speak on a

matter from the agenda. Heffer acknowledged that he had made note of a recurring issue. “I’m seeing that not a lot of the people are coming forward with something on the agenda - they want to talk about something different. And I thought, this way, if they came forth with a delegation, we can ask questions.” The current rules for public comment do not allow for discourse between the speaker and members of council. “They just come, and fire off for the two minutes [of allotted time].”

Palmer pointed out that anyone can currently form a delegation and give a presentation to council, provided they receive approval from staff first. “I know we’ve had some issues, I guess, but we’ve had some people utilize the two minutes in a nice way, in a productive way, as well.” North Huron is not the only municipality that has seen an increase in incidents of verbal abuse and harassment from members of the public in recent years, and each municipality has chosen to handle things in a different way.

Heffer’s motion to request a staff report that would offer more details on how each municipality handles public comments was brought to a vote, and passed unanimously.

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

JOAN (FOWLER) HOGGARTH Joan (Fowler) Hoggarth of Londesborough passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, at Seaforth Community Hospital on Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at the age of 94.

The beloved wife of the late Raymond Hoggarth (2000), Joan was the proud mom of Vic and Mary of Tiverton, Buck of Londesborough, Robert of Londesborough, Don and Wilma of Mitchell, Howard and Sue of Bayfield, and Jerry and Shani of Whitechurch. She was the adored grandma of 10 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren and the dear sister of Anna Gertrude-Boyle (Trudy) of St. Thomas, and Gwen Rivett of Squamish, British Columbia.

Joan will be fondly remembered by her nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Fred Fowler and Helen Deeves, her sister Pauline Kennedy, and one great-great grandchild.

Joan was an avid reader and always enjoyed having a good book on the go. She was known far and wide for her delicious, perfectly baked chocolate chip cookies.

Above all, she cherished every moment spent with her family.

Cremation has taken place. A

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PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Music and dancing at Seaforth elimination draw

Do it, Dianne!

The Seaforth Lions Club hosted a delightful evening on June 15 where attendees could enjoy a half chicken dinner. The event featured lively music from Dianne and the Cavaliers, who kept the dance floor buzzing.

Participants also had the chance to engage in an exciting elimination draw for cash prizes. All proceeds from the event are going toward the betterment of the Seaforth community.

(John Stephenson photo)

Lancaster’s return interests many PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570

The roads were busy, the skies were busy and many report looking to the skies to see the Lancaster fly over our area heading to Goderich on Friday morning. Many posted pictures on Facebook as the historical plane flew over. A few shed a tear in remembrance of family who served on the crew of a Lancaster.

Many battled the traffic to go to the Goderich airport to see the plane. I know of some who made it to the airport on time and some didn’t make it on time because of traffic and missed the opening

ceremonies. George Adams made the trip up and his daughter managed to get VIP parking and front row seats so George could see it all. He was thrilled.

Just one more week, really only four days, and school will be over.

For the last week, the children have had many special days. Trips to Storybook Gardens, camps, splash pads - which with the very hot weather this week was a hit - and there were other exciting places for them to enjoy. The children will be happy school is over, and the bus drivers will also be extremely happy the year is over.

The old saying that the corn needs to be knee-high by July to be a good crop will not be a problem for most fields. Some of the laterplanted fields are doing well and will not be long catching up. The wheat is looking very good and we will have to wait on the rest of the crops.

Congratulations to Patty Banks on the birth of another

granddaughter. Daughter Cassandra and partner Paul have welcomed a little girl named Riley to their family. All are well and congratulations to all.

We had an amazing sight at our place last week. A very large bald eagle swept down and captured its prey right on our front lawn. It was only seconds and into the air it flew with a rabbit dangling from its claws. It landed in the field across the creek and then flew into the field closer to the bush. It was a very large bird and we could watch it easily. Wow! Our sympathies to the Fritz family on the passing of Rick Fritz.

He will be missed by his children Dave Fritz and Kelly MacNeill and his brother Don. He will also be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife Jeannine and brothers Jim (Barb), Brian (Marilyn) and Marg (Doug). Rick had moved to Brussels a few years

HE composition issue to return Continued from page 1 a second if it was deemed absolutely necessary. While there was a bit of casual support for the idea, Chief Administrative Officer Brad McRoberts said that staff do work to the bi-weekly schedule to a certain extent and changing that might complicate things at the municipal office.

He did suggest, however, that council could consider keeping the first meeting of a month scheduled, but then ask councillors to keep the third Tuesday of the month open for a second meeting and it could be held or not depending on the workload.

Another councillor then suggested rolling some meetings into others. For example, council could schedule one of its committee meetings for a committee made up entirely of councillors - say, the Water and Sewer Committee - just before the bi-weekly council meeting. Staff said that wouldn’t provide savings beyond mileage, as they are still two separate meetings and would have to be paid for each

separate meeting, so that change wouldn’t provide any savings.

Council then discussed perhaps changing how councillors are paid for meetings, suggesting a different rate for meetings based on time, an hourly rate or a simple salary that would incorporate the honorarium and simply pay councillors one flat rate per year, regardless of how many meetings or events they attend.

However, in the end, council decided to leave things status quo for the time being and revisit the issue, perhaps this fall, ahead of next year and the next term of council, asking for a staff report.

Worth noting from the report prepared by Rudy, despite the fact that councillors didn’t discuss it that night, is that a motion regarding council composition will return to the table later this year, as decisions have to be made at least one year before the next municipal election.

Rudy’s report included the recommendation from the Council Review Advisory Committee from

2022, which was reported by The Citizen at the time. It calls for Huron East to move to a ninemember council and the amalgamation of two wards. This recommendation called for a mayor to be elected at large, a deputymayor to be appointed by council, both of which are status quo, and then two representatives to be elected each from a new ward that combines Brussels and Grey, a new ward that combines McKillop and Seaforth, the current Tuckersmith ward and for two further councillors to be elected at-large.

Furthermore, the recommendation then states that council have discussions over the course of the impending term to eliminate the ward system altogether ahead of the 2030 municipal election, moving instead to an entirely at-large council.

Council did not discuss this recommendation at its June 4 meeting, but council will address the recommendation sometime later this year when staff returns with a report.

ago and will be missed by all.

Celebrating birthdays this past week includes Hillary Bachert, Dallas Young, Tanner Boven, Shawn Rennick, Colleen Smith, Mary Baker, Paul Linton, Jamie Clark, Aaron Johnston, Dawson Dunbar, Margaret McInroy, Adam McClure, Tyson McGavin and Brielle Ryan. Happy birthday to all.

NEWS FROM WALTON

BELGRAVE COMMUNITY CENTRE invites

NOMINATIONS for the

Jim McGee Community Volunteer Award Submissions are to be completed by June 30, 2024 For more information please contact Kendra Robinson mandkrobinson@gmail.com 519-357-4040 for an information package

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 17.

From the Minister’s Study

Cherish the gifts of God to get closer to Him: Todd

By Rev. JoAnn Todd, The Regional Ministry of Hope We’re reading our way through the gospel of Mark right now. It is the shortest and the earliest of the four gospels, probably written before 70 A.D. It contains mostly stories about Jesus’ actions, including disputes with the scribes and Pharisees, along with some of Jesus’ sayings, miracle stories and parables. Indeed, the gospel of Mark is a story of conflicts that Jesus had during his ministry. And they start right near the beginning of Mark’s book.

Jesus has been teaching in the synagogue, amazing people by his knowledge and the authority he has in the way he’s teaching. He’s cast out evil spirits, healed all kinds of people, including a man with leprosy - who was only too happy to tell the world about it, even though Jesus told him to keep it on the down-low. He’s healed a paralyzed man whom his friends lowered down from the roof to get to Jesus in fact, Jesus told him his sins were forgiven. There were some scribes present for this healing - scribes were the teachers of the religious law - and they question just who Jesus thinks he is, because only God can forgive sins. Well, I’m sure that did more than raise a few religious eyebrows!

Next, Jesus called Levi, a tax collector, to become one his followers, and then had the audacity to actually have dinner with a group of tax collectors and other sinners.

And that too was clearly against Jewish law. Then some other people questioned why Jesus didn’t make his apostles fast, when John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting.

And that leads us to the story we’re focusing on, in which we find Jesus is being deliberately provocative.

It seems his unconventional behaviour has come to the attention of the Pharisees.

Now, recall that the Pharisees were “…the holy men who kept the law; they pursued purity with a passion and wanted nothing more than to live lives that pleased God.” Here’s another, more detailed explanation about who the Pharisees were.

Pharisees were very legalistic in their interpretation of the Torah, the law. They codified, they studied and determined how the law was to be actually practised in day-to-day life. Today’s story is focusing on laws for the Sabbath, the third commandment; the God-ordained day of rest. “Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.”

This reminded me of a story my mother once shared. My mother was raised in a part of Amsterdam that was close to the Jewish quarter.

I recall her telling us that when she was a child, she was paid on Saturdays by a Jewish family to come to their house to turn on the lights when it started to get dark in the house, because to turn on the light was considered working, which was contrary to Sabbath adherence. After sundown on Saturday, Sabbath was considered to be over, and so the family could turn off the lights themselves.

And a biblical example of Sabbath keeping that came to mind is the expression “a Sabbath day’s journey”. What does that actually mean? A Sabbath day’s journey was the distance that observant Jews were allowed to walk on the Sabbath. Jewish groups, like the Pharisees, debated among themselves which activities were permissible on the Sabbath and codified them, they made them law.

And an appropriate maximum distance to travel on a Sabbath day was determined to be three-quarters of a mile, or 1.2 kilometres. Any other day of the week, travel distances were not regulated.

So, we have Jesus being called to task for allowing his disciples to pick and eat the grain on a Sabbath, while going through a grain field.

Picking the grain was harvesting and it clearly contravened the Sabbath day of rest ordinance. Jesus reminded those who called him out for allowing his disciples to pick the grain of the time of David and his companions were in need of food and they ate the holy bread

that only priests were allowed to eat. And Jesus said to them that the Sabbath was made for humankind, not humankind for the Sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath. (vs 27-28) That’s a doubly controversial statement: Sabbath is for people’s benefit, not the other way around, and Jesus is calling himself Lord of the Sabbath.

Next, Jesus goes to the synagogue on the Sabbath and there’s a man present who had a withered hand.

Mark notes that folks were watching to see what Jesus would do, as Jesus’ reputation as a healer by now was well known. Yet, a healing would be considered “working” if it was the Sabbath.

Jesus, being Jesus, knows their thoughts. Does it make you wonder if they even set him up, making sure the man with the withered hand was there?

“Then Jesus asked them, ‘Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?’

But they remained silent.” (Mk 3.4) And what does Jesus do? As one commentator I read pointed out, Jesus simply asks the man to stretch out his hand. He doesn’t touch the man, offers no words of healing, yet the man’s hand is healed.

So, Jesus technically has maintained Sabbath observance.

But still the hand is restored. Jesus has established his lordship over the Sabbath; it is the Lord’s day, and he is Lord. Clearly he opted to do good as the overarching principle, instead of adhering to the principle of the law. Jesus “looked around at the people with anger and he grieved at

Brussels Mennonite Fellowship Come Worship with us

Sunday June 23, 10:30 a.m.

Pastor Mike preaching on "Working in Unity" Nehemiah 3

On-site and online - live.huronchapel.com Register for Vacation Bible Camp July 8-12! www.huronchapel.com 119 John’s Ave., Auburn 519-526-1131

BRUSSELS S

U United Chu ur urch Join J oin us at at W Worship orship orship Sunday, Sunday y,, June June 23, 23 3, 9:30 a.m.

All are welc come Sun. June 23, 2 p.m. Brussels Cemetery Decoration Service Sun. June 30, Joint Worship Service at Blyth Lion’s Park at 11 a.m. followed by picnic lunch - No Service at Brussels Sun. July 7, Brussels worship timee changes to 11:00 a.m.

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.

The Regional Ministry of Hope Trinity Anglican BLYTH 9:00 AM

Sundays at 10:00 a.m.

All Are Welcome

St. Paul’s-Trinity Anglican WINGHAM 11:00 AM

519-357-7781 • email: revjoann@hurontel.on.ca www.regionalministryofhope.com

Interim Pastor Elwin Garland 250 Princess St., Brussels • 519 887 6388

Weekly service live-streamed at 11:00 a.m. on our Facebook page or on youtube @St. Paul’s-Trinity Anglican Church Wingham.

Join J oin us us Sunday, Sunday, J June une 23 23

Sunday, June 23 at 10 a.m.

BMG Community Centre (upstairs room) 800 Sports Drive, Brussels

Worship and Prayer Time Loving Fellowship Expository Preaching

Coming Soon! Vacation Bible School, July 8 - 12th, Ages 5-12 For additional details please visit: brusselscommunitybiblechapel.ca

Blyth United Churrch Sundayy, June 23 at 11:00 am

Nursery & Sunday School during worship

For Jesus, compassion and care overrode any other considerations.

Jesus is angered and grieved. What does that sound like? He hurts within himself, because of their hard-heartedness; because the tradition, the adherence to rules and regulations was paramount in their eyes, even over caring for others.

Now, in today’s world Sabbath adherence is almost nonexistent.

You can almost forget what day of the week is Sunday, and what Sunday’s purpose really is. And I think we’ve lost a lot because of it.

Yet, there are good lessons in these stories still for us today.

Slavish adherence to tradition just for the sake of the tradition - even religious tradition - is really a form of idolatry. We’re caring more for the rule or belief we’ve created than the reason for which the rule was first formed.

We need to consider: why are we doing what we’re doing? What’s the purpose, the rational for doing it? Is it just because we’ve always done it that way? Is there truly value in continuing to do things in that Continued on page 18

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GOD CARES OU! FOR Y

Childcare and Sunday School provided for children 0 to 8 during the sermon Evangelical Missionary Church

their hardness of heart.” (Mk 3.5) And already at this early stage in his ministry, Mark tells us that the Pharisees began to conspire to kill Jesus. Jesus, it seems, is intentionally challenging the scribes, the Pharisees and the people’s blind, almost obsessive adherence to the tradition over caring for others. And Jesus’ indifference to adhering to the generally-accepted laws around Sabbath adherence, just for the law’s sake, angered the Pharisees.

In fairness to the Pharisees, Jesus was provoking them. Adherence to the Sabbath rules was significant to the Jews, it “was intimately connected to Jewish identity”.

Think for a minute, I doubt if the disciples who were plucking the grain really were starving. And Jesus could have waited until the next day, or even after sundown on the Sabbath to heal the man’s hand if he really wanted to. It certainly wasn’t like it was an emergency or anything. Jesus chose to heal the man’s hand rather than letting the man live for one more day with the complications of that situation.

“I am the good shepherrd. d The good shepherrdd lays down his life for the sheep.” John 10:11 Join us We Wednesday mornings for conversation in the garden startiing at 10 am The outreach project for June is the Lions Guide Dog T Trrainingg Program Contact Alex at: minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com Facebook: Blyth and Brussels United Churche es blythunited@tcc.on.ca ~ 519-523-4224

Graduation Graduatio on Sun on Sund Sunday unday M Mr Mr.. Frank nk kF Folkema lke lk ke e a will be leadin leading adin din in ng u ng us in the e 10:00 1 0a am m se ser service. serv s erv .

There is s no e evenin evening enin ng gs servic se service. ervice. vic ic Services S ervices a are re llive-streamed ive-streamed a and nd c can an b be e found found b by ys searching earching ““Blyth Blyth C Christian hristian R Reformed eformed C Church” hurch”

BLYTH B LYTH C CHRISTIAN HRISTIAN REFORMED R EFORMED C CHURCH HURCH Hwy Hw wy. 4, B Bllyth 519-523-4 5519 3-4743 ww ww w w.blyt ytthc hcccrrc.ca c ca

MEL LV VILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRUSSELS

Sunday, June 23, 2024 11:00 am - 12 noon We extend a loving welcome to all to join us as Rev. Peter Nijp leads uss in worship, and in celebration of the sacrament of Holy Communion.

Coffee, snacks and a time for visiting will follow the servicee.

Soup & More 2 Join us every Friday from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. for lunch. This free meal is made possible by the Brussels churches and many volunteers working together to serve our community. c All are welcome!

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

PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

Where is William Hews?

Glimpses of the Past with Karen Webster

A

very sad advertisement was found in the Feb. 11, 1848 edition of the Huron Signal.

It read, “Information Wanted About William Hews, aged 13, whose father died last summer at Grosse-Île. The boy missed his mother at Montreal in August of 1847. She is now in great agony about him and will be thankful for information. Direct to Margaret Hews in care of T. Daly Esq. Stratford, Huron District.”

So many questions come to mind.

Why were Margaret and her son separated? Were mother and son ever reunited? Did Margaret Hews

live in Huron District in 1848 or was this advertisement just one of many that went to newspapers throughout Canada? What is the significance of the name Grosse-Île?

Grosse-Île is a five-kilometre-byone-kilometre island that is located 48 kilometres downstream of Quebec City in the St. Lawrence River. Following a cholera epidemic in Europe in 1832, this uninhabited island was turned into a quarantine station for the immigrant ships that were headed to Quebec City.

By 1847, the potato famine in Ireland had driven roughly one million Irish to flee from their

homeland for a better life elsewhere.

Because they were very poor, they could not afford passage on reputable ships and, already weakened by starvation, ended up crammed in terrible unsanitary conditions that led to an outbreak of typhus. Many of these vessels earned the title of “coffin ships” because of the high number of deaths on board. There were many burials at sea.

Epidemic typhus is caused by contact with infected body lice.

Typhus typically occurs mainly in populations where there is unhygienic overcrowding - in other words, the exact conditions of the majority of ships that were used to transport the Irish immigrants to Canada. Conditions on most ships were overcrowded; sanitary conditions amounted to a few pails for toilets. Because many of the passengers were seasick on the journey, the passengers’ quarters, which were below deck with no fresh air, quickly became a stinking, filthy place. Also, several people were forced to sleep in one bunk, which increased the unsanitary atmosphere in which the typhus bacteria thrived.

The challenge of living in the grey Continued from page 17 traditional way, or is anyone being hurt, or ignored or devalued because we’re doing something, or saying something in that traditional way - the way that was always acceptable? Where is God and God’s love in our particular behaviour, or way of doing or believing? Or have we become so closed-minded that there’s no room for the Holy Spirit’s guidance left to come upon us and challenge us?

It really is easier to stick to the same ways of doing or believing that we always have. And more comfortable too. A black-and-white

world makes for easy decisionmaking. But the question must always be, “where is God in that?”

And that’s where the black and white can mesh together and the world can get pretty grey. It can be challenging to live in the grey!

I’ll end by sharing the words of one of the scriptural commentators I read this week; it sums things up nicely I think.

Christians can be tempted to side with the Pharisees - angry and irritated with everything that seems to fall outside of a customary and familiar reading of Scripture or tradition. There are good reasons to

do this: the continuity of any religion over time requires these concrete ways of living out dedication to God. But the story reminds us of the terrible price that is extracted when these commitments become idolatry.

When we cherish the gifts of God, including scripture, religious convention and morality, we lose the power to cherish the people of God. Jesus is described as angry and grieved by his opponents’ hardness of heart. But perhaps we should have some pity for the Pharisees, because they are so much like ourselves.

When the ship “Syria” arrived at Grosse-Île in May of 1847, of the 241 passengers, 84 were ill. One hundred patients were admitted to the hospital there.

This was not the only ship arriving, because, within seven days, 30 more ships arrived, all carrying ill passengers as well. Because the facilities on Grosse-Île were overwhelmed with patients, Dr. George Douglas, the island’s chief medical officer, ordered that the healthy people, as well as the ill, remain on the ships in the hopes that washing and airing out the ships would help contain the disease. He was wrong. These measures led to more infected people and consequently, more deaths.

By the end of May, some 1,100 people were crammed on the island whose hospital was designed for only 150 patients. At that time, there were 40 ships forming a line three kilometres long down the St. Lawrence. By mid-summer, 2,500 invalids were quarantined on Grosse-Île and the line of waiting ships stretched several more kilometres. There were limited food and water supplies for the patients on Grosse-Île and many of the overworked staff also came down with typhus. Prisoners were enlisted to help, but often ended up stealing from the patients.

By the end of July, Dr. Douglas declared that the quarantine regulations were impossible to enforce. Often passengers merely walked past the doctors and were only checked if they appeared fevered.

Eventually, new quarantine facilities were created in Montreal but left behind were 7,553 graves in the cemetery and, of this number, the names of 1,545 interred are unknown. The incubation period of this disease is 10 days to two weeks, thus people who had contracted typhus could remain looking and feeling healthy while they went about infecting others.

In Canada, more than 20,000 people died from 1847-1848, with many quarantined in fever sheds, not only on Grosse-Île, but also in Montreal, Toronto, Kingston and St John.

This is the situation faced by the

Hews family. Presumably, the father was ill with typhus and succumbed to its effects. It sounds like William was separated from his mother, likely expected to board the next ship bound for Montreal. Is it possible that William, too, contracted typhus and was one of its victims?

The effects of so many people dying of typhus meant that numerous children were without a parent or guardian. The churches in Quebec and New Brunswick helped care for these minors and some were adopted or fostered by FrenchCatholic families. Some of these children were integrated into the families, but others were thought of as extra labour for the farms and businesses. Could this have been William’s fate?

Unfortunately, we may never know if William survived and lived to be reunited with his mother.

Several attempts have been made to find the answer to these questions by using the internet, but no William or Margaret Hews, who fit the criteria, have been found yet. Could Margaret have remarried by the time of the 1851 census? There are so many questions about the ad in the Goderich newspaper with no answers.

Those were very sad times indeed and stories like this one may be part of the history of many Canadians of Irish descent whose families lived through an Gorta Mór (The Great Hunger) and the typhus epidemic.

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THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024. PAGE 19.

Entertainment & Leisure

‘The Farm Show: Then and Now’ bridges eras

One half-century Not only was Friday night a celebration of the 50th anniversary season of the Blyth Festival, but it also marked the return of The Farm Show to the stage.

Created in 1972 by Theatre Passe Muraille by Paul Thompson and a collection of actors, the show is often cited as a seminal moment in the realm of Canadian theatre. It was fitting, then, that the living creators of

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Once upon a time, when Keith Roulston (one of the founders of the Blyth Festival - heard of him?) and I worked in the same office, we would discuss the plays of the Blyth Festival... though only after I’d written my review of the show.

Keith and I would find ourselves at the same opening night shows and, in my early days of writing reviews, I’d ask him what he thought of the show when I first saw him in the morning. He’d inevitably ask if I’d yet written my review and if I told him I hadn’t, he’d simply walk on.

You see, he didn’t want to influence my opinion of what I’d seen in any way.

That’s all a bit of prologue to the opening night of The Farm Show: Then and Now, which opened on the Festival’s Harvest Stage on Friday night. For someone who’s been privy to Festival history for nearly 20 years now, the audience was a who’s who of the Festival’s 50-year history. At least two of the Festival’s three founders were in attendance, along with all living creators of The Farm Show and even some of those profiled in the original show and surely I didn’t see or recognize many, many others who were there that night.

It was a night for all of those who had a hand in getting the Festival from its first season to its 50th. I say all of that to set the scene of

sitting directly behind Ted Johns and Janet Amos, two of the most prominent figures in Festival (and Canadian theatre) history and cocreators of The Farm Show, last Friday. As they watched their creation be relived, revisited and, at times, reinterpreted, it was hard not to take cues or be influenced by how they were receiving the play.

While I dutifully watched every scene for the first time (and while I have heard Farm Show lore for nearly 20 years, I never had the chance to see it before Friday night), I couldn’t help but find the reactions of Ted and Janet much more interesting than my own. I was wondering what they liked (it seemed like a lot, though I wouldn’t dare speak for Ted or Janet), what they remembered from those hot Huron County days in the early 1970s and what it was like seeing a young cast perform their show more

the show were in attendance on Friday night as their creation was celebrated again all these years later. They were joined

by Festival co-founder James Roy and some of the people profiled in the original show. Back row, from left: James Roy, Ted Johns, Fina MacDonell, Paul Thompson, Ed Fisher and Miles Potter. Front row, from left: Alison Lobb, Anne Anglin and Janet Amos. (Terry Manzo photo) than 50 years after they first performed it as a young cast themselves. I wondered if they missed their dearly-departed friend and Farm Show co-creator David Fox, who was eulogized within the show alongside Ray Bird, the farmer whose barn played host to the first-ever production of The Farm Show. I also couldn’t help but wonder if they ever thought their weird and wonderful summer near

Clinton - and the show they made about it - would still be celebrated all these years later.

With all of that being said, it didn’t influence my opinion of the show, but it certainly put it into some historical context. You can be told that plays are written about real people and true stories, but having those people sit in the audience with you as you watch it paints an entirely different picture - certainly

more than just about any conversation Keith and I could have had in our old office together.

And now, without further ado, onto the show! The Farm Show: Then and Now begins with a preamble. Fiona Mongillo, Hallie Seline, Landon Doak, Jamie Mac and Geoffrey Armour - the cast of five, short one of the original cast of six, perhaps by design as a tribute takes to the stage and speaks to us, the audience. Here they are - actors (this season’s cast) portraying actors (The Farm Show creators) portraying the farmers and rural residents of Goderich Township and the Clinton area in the early 1970s.

The suspension of disbelief, in terms of the actors, the story on the stage and the items being used as props, will be necessary.

Festival Artistic Director Gil Garratt, who also directed the show, makes some special appearances over the course of the story being told, further breaking the fourth wall within a show that proves to be a habitual fourth wall breaker.

For someone like me, who has had fleeting glimpses of imagery from the original show or heard recollections of some of the most memorable scenes, there were times that I felt at home, knowing a bit about the scene I was seeing, despite not seeing it before. There was Doak’s take on the famous Miles Potter scene about the wild world of storing hay, Seline crosslegged giving us Fina MacDonell’s ducks, a creative take on the International Plowing Match and, of course, the human tractor ridden

by Doak’s Potter - which serves as the show’s art by Autumn Ducharme and based on a photograph from the original production.

You can tell this cast of actors has relished being part of this moment in history (revisiting another moment in history).

Their commitment is clear and the fun they’re having on stage is infectious. There is so much to watch - the sound is cacophonous at times, while at other times a scene will simply go on as actors embody animals in the Continued on page 20

Congratulations

Sudoku Solution Robert and Lori Gordon are proud to announce the graduation of their daughter Clarissa, from the University of Waterloo. She graduated on the Dean’s Honour list with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Therapeutic Recreation and Joint Honours Psychology. In September Clarissa will continue her studies with a Masters in Occupational Therapy.

It is our great pleasure to announce the graduation of our oldest granddaughter Grace Catharina May Caldwell from Wilfred Laurier University in Brantford. Grace graduated with honours after completing the four year honour’s program in Social Work on June 4, 2024.

Grace is the daughter of Ian Caldwell and Sarah Plumbley. Grandparents are Leslie and Evelyn Caldwell and Jeff and Cathy Thomson. We are very proud of you. You are our sunshine.

It is our exceptional honour to announce the graduation of our second oldest granddaughter Amelia (Amy) Evelyn Caldwell from the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus with an associated diploma in Agriculture on June 7, 2024. Amy is the daughter of Ian Caldwell and Sarah Plumbley. Proud grandparents are Leslie and Evelyn Caldwell and Jeff and Cathy Thomson. She is following in her dad’s footsteps as an “AGGIE”.

Our little girl has grown up.

PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 2024.

The more things change, the more they stay the same

On the move The Farm Show: Then and Now cast brings history to life on the Blyth Festival’s Harvest Stage. From left: Landon Doak, Geoffrey Armour, Fiona Mongillo, Hallie Seline and Jamie Mac. (Gemma James Smith photo) Continued from page 19 background, providing what could be considered scenery all too familiar to anyone who’s visited a Huron County farm.

All five actors (and Garratt) are tremendous and it’s impossible to force a reviewer to put forward a standout for consideration. Though, as someone who knew and admired Fox, I kept returning to Mac’s version of Fox playing farmer Les

Gervais. Absolutely tremendous stuff.

The exhausting physical acting has the cast portraying everything from chickens, rams and deer to tractors, water wheels and bridges, in addition to all of the people whose stories they work to tell. It really is a feat of physical theatre.

Aside from the meta framing device (actors portraying actors portraying farmers) and a few

Up in the air Over the weekend, the Dungannon Super Pull went ahead for the second year at its new location: Lucknow’s Graceland. It was another popular weekend for the area’s tractor lovers. (Scott Stephenson photo)

updates and tributes to Fox and Bird, the show largely sticks to the script of the Theatre Passe Muraille production from all those years ago (which wasn’t written down until after more than a year of performances). And that’s a good thing.

Garratt and the cast could almost be seen as being in an unenviable position by taking this project on.

Letting the project speak for itself, all these years on, could come with its own challenges, while getting trigger-happy with updates is sure to be fraught with its own peril, especially among purists like Festival founders, original creators and more. And yet they seem to have struck a good balance.

Furthermore, both those inside and out of farming can’t help but notice the echoes of conversations being had in the world of farming in 1972 that still reverberate here in 2024. Food prices - who’s complaining about them and who’s getting rich off of them - are a talking point, right alongside the nearly-impossible task of making a living as a farmer and the even more nearly-impossible task of

getting into farming as a young person. Issues then, issues now.

And while it’s true that the more things change, the more they stay the same, it was impossible not to think about the passage of time watching the show with all of those creative geniuses in the audience.

Once young and bounding around the stage with limitless energy like today’s cast, but now older and watching with decades more of experience in their eyes, it served as a reminder of just how long 50 years is and all that can change, be grown and be gained and lost in that time.

There is no guarantee that a theatre like the Blyth Festival, a big swing to rival some of the biggest swings, lives to see a second season, let alone a 50th. What James Roy, Anne Chislett and Keith Roulston founded all those years ago appears to be alive and thriving, embracing its past while looking to its future. And now, arriving at the end of my review, I can tell Keith that myself.

The Farm Show: Then and Now is on the Festival’s Harvest Stage until Aug. 4.

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