The Citizen - June 4, 2020

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The

THIS WEEK

Citizen

Huron County’s most trusted independent news source Volume 36 No. 23

Thursday, June 4, 2020

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

COVID-19 cases rise in region

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Lunch time Sarah VanDriel, centre, is seen here with 11-year-old Gavin, left, and four-year-old Declan looking to feed one of the chickens that live in their backyard coop. While the family had planned to take the leap into coop life long ago,

the COVID-19 pandemic gave them the push they needed when they began having trouble finding chickens. And, of course, a good chicken needs to be well fed, which is where the family stepped in over the weekend. (Mark Nonkes photo)

Firefighters’ breakfasts now cancelled

By Denny Scott The Citizen The annual Father’s Day firefighters’ breakfast at the Brussels fire station set for June 21 has been cancelled due to COVID-19, and that’s just the first of several cancellations according to Huron East and North Huron Fire Chief Marty Bedard.

In an interview with The Citizen

on Monday, Bedard said he’s still confirming, but anticipates the breakfasts at the Grey station (June 28) and Seaforth station (July 1) breakfasts will also be cancelled.

Bedard said the Blyth breakfast, which is a two-day event typically held during the annual reunion of the Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association, may also be cancelled or changed as a result of the re-

union’s cancellation and COVID-19.

“We haven’t really discussed it,” he said, “but it could be cancelled.”

Bedard said the events were cancelled wholesale as take-out could still be onerous to put on with the necessary COVID-19 precautions. He said a take-out option wasn’t even discussed as a result.

“The one thing we have talked about is, even if they relax the public

‘Citizen’ nominations open

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen It’s that time again. The Citizen and its parent company North Huron Publishing are seeking worthy nominations for the annual Citizen of the Year Awards, handed out for the communities of Blyth and Brussels.

The Citizen has been handing out the awards, which celebrate volunteerism and community spirit, since 1985, the year The Citizen was founded.

A nomination form for the 2020 Citizen of the Year Awards can be found on page 11 of this week’s issue. Nominations can also be sent to Citizen Editor Shawn Loughlin at editor@northhuron.on.ca.

The Citizen encourages residents and readers to nominate someone who has made a difference in the community and with this year going as it has, there are plenty of people who have stepped up and helped their neighbours and friends.

The annual Citizen of the Year Award winners are chosen from

among reader nominations. Readers nominate residents who make a difference in their communities.

Those nominations are then considered by a panel of past Citizen of the Year Award winners, who then choose the year’s winner.

North Huron Publishing Inc. and The Citizen are proud to present this award annually, celebrating volunteerism and community commitment in the Blyth and Brussels communities.

Past winners of the award in Continued on page 3

gathering limitations, there are still a number of measures that would have to be put in place like plexiglass between the people serving and the customers,” he said. “We didn’t think that would be practical at the fire hall.”

Bedard went on to say it would be difficult to physically distance in those situations and more demanding on the firefighters and volunteers.

He said he wants to thank everyone who supports the events and looks forward to them continuing in the future.

The impact of the cancellation, he said, will be between $2,000 and $4,000 per fire hall, saying each hall brings in a different number of people and donations of food can make a big difference on the bottom line. The funds raised from the events are banked until the local associations can purchase or help to purchase equipment. Recently, for example, the Brussels Firefighters’ Association purchased a single selfcontained breathing apparatus (SCBA) pack for the hall, a $10,000 purchase.

COVID-19 cases continue to be confirmed in Huron and Perth Counties, according to Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen of Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH).

There are now 53 confirmed cases in Huron and Perth: 26 in Stratford, three in St. Marys and 11 in the rest of Perth County and 13 in Huron.

Those 13 cases break down to one each in Ashfield-ColborneWawanosh, Huron East and MorrisTurnberry; two each in Goderich and Central Huron and three each in Bluewater and South Huron.

All outbreaks at long-term care or retirement homes in the area have been declared over, including Maitland Manor in Goderich where an outbreak was declared on May 20 but was declared over on June 1.

Of the 50 cases that have been resolved, 45 have recovered and five have resulted in fatalities, four in Greenwood Court, a long-term care centre in Stratford. Of the 23 cases confirmed in local healthcare workers, all 23 have been resolved.

During a teleconference last week, Klassen explained that while there is expanded testing across Ontario, those who believe they may have COVID-19 have to continue to follow the rules for being tested.

Klassen said, across Huron and Perth, staff and residents of “congregate settings” can opt-in for testing.

Everyone else, however, has to follow the existing practices.

“All other residents… [should] contact their family doctor for an assessment over the phone or call Huron Perth Public Health,” she said. “If it's determined a test is necessary, callers could be sent for testing that same day. If you call after hours, we will call you back the next day, even on weekends.”

She said recommendations remain the same regarding self-isolation: anyone who is symptomatic or being tested should remain at home.

“If you are concerned, but asymptomatic, self-monitor,” she said.

Klassen, when asked about how HPPH is attempting to prevent large gatherings like those seen in Toronto, said police still have the power to address gatherings.

She encouraged people to continue frequent hand hygiene and physical distancing or wearing a mask if physical distancing isn’t possible.

She went on to say, to date, she hadn’t heard of any events like those in Toronto in Huron and Perth Counties.

For more information, visit hpph.ca.

PAGE 2. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

We’re Making ga ffe erence to Keep Diff Each Other Safe fe from COVID-19 As businesses begin to reopen, we alll need to fforts to protect each otherr.. continue ourr effo

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Practice physical distancingĚ&#x; Stay two metres away from others

Wear a fa face covering when physicall distancing is a challenge

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Inside or out, stay y safe fe. Save lives.

Learn more at ontario.ca/coronavirus Paid for by the Government of Ontario

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 3.

‘Quarantine Fairies’ spread joy to friends would put a smile on the face of the recipient. The baskets were to be delivered secretly, being placed on the porch with a quick knock on the door so only the basket would remain when the door was opened.

In an interview with The Citizen, Margaret and Maraya said that by the time their efforts were all said and done, over 10 local children were involved, with the hopes that it would continue to branch out as recipients pass on smiles and goodwill to others in the community.

The Schiestels created a small group of friends and neighbours and gauged their interest in participating and Margaret said they were all quite excited to get involved.

Right now, she said, Maraya and her friends have all been missing school, seeing their friends and other things like sleepovers and summer sports, so the Quarantine Fairy was a way for them to connect with their friends while also remaining safe.

Spreading smiles A group of ‘Quarantine Fairies’ has been spreading joy to friends in North Huron and beyond as a way of dealing with the isolation and stress that has accompanied COVID-19.

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen A project that began in Wingham and spread to the Blyth and Brussels areas has done its part to spread

happiness during the isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Margaret Schiestel and her daughter Maraya spearheaded the project last month, delivering the

From left: Julia Egli, Maraya Schiestel and Macie Taylor. Maraya and her mother Margaret spearheaded the initiative, gathering friends to take part. (Photos submitted) first “Quarantine Fairy” basket on May 19, asking the recipient to pass it on.

The concept first arose with gift baskets for mothers from the “Wine Fairy” and after Margaret had

received one such basket, Maraya told her mother she’d like to do something along the same lines with her friends and neighbours, who all had been missing one another since the pandemic hit.

The pair came up with the idea of the Quarantine Fairy and got to work distributing some gift baskets.

The children would prepare a basket of goodies, including treats, activity books and anything else that

Celebrating A Special Occasion?

Advertise it in

The Citizen Call or email to book your ad today!

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

Snack time Muriel Taylor caught this photo of a visiting oriole to her deck catching a snack.

(Photo submitted)

Many honoured through awards Continued from page 1 Brussels are: Cal Krauter, 1985; Wayne Lowe, 1986; Jack Bryans, 1987; Ida Evans, 1989; Bessie Johnston, 1990; Betty Graber, 1991; George Langlois, 1992; Howard Bernard, 1993; Joanne King, 1994; Frank Thompson, 1995; Audrey Cardiff, 1996; Leona Armstrong, 1997; Neil McGavin, 1998; Beth Earl, 1999; Lyle and Alice Brothers, 2000; Nelva and Spence Scott, 2001; Jo-Ann McDonald, 2002; Kathy Bridge, 2003; Jeff and Cathy Cardiff, 2004; Clara Blake, 2005; Phyllis Mitchell, 2006; Doug McArter, 2007; Nora Stephenson and Fran Bremner, 2008; Rene Richmond, 2009; Jim Prior, 2010; Cathrine Campbell, 2011; Jim and Lois Lee, 2012; Yvonne Knight, 2013; Dave Stephenson, 2014; Sandra Cable, 2015; Jean Davidson, 2016; Elaine Armstrong, 2017, Doug Sholdice, 2018 and Mary Douma in 2019.

Past winners of the award in Blyth are: Evalena Webster, 1985; Frank and Cenetta Bainton, 1986; Winona McDougall, 1987; Margaret Whyte, 1989; Simon Hallahan, 1990; Dr. Richard Street, 1991; Bill and Maxine Seers, 1992; Margaret Caldwell, 1993; Helen Gowing, 1994; Don Scrimgeour, 1995; John Stewart, 1996; Janet Amos, 1997;

Betty Battye, 1998; Robb Finch, Dave Cook, Brent Scrimgeour and Doug Walker, 1999; Murray Siertsema, 2000; Charlie Shaw, 2001; Lavern Clark, 2002; Bev Blair and Thelma Johnston, 2003; Steven Sparling, 2004; Don “Barney” Stewart, 2005; Lois van Vliet, 2006; Janice Henry, 2007; Joe Hallahan,

2008; Brock and Janis Vodden, 2009; Jean Nethery, 2010; Kay Hesselwood, 2011; Steve Howson, 2012; Barbara Bosman, 2013; Marian Hallahan, 2014; Nellie Mason, 2015; Ernie Phillips, 2016; Ric McBurney, 2017, Carl Nesbitt, 2018 and Jane Smyth in 2019.

ATTENTION VETERANS’ FAMILIES LEGION BR. 420 BLYTH is looking for Veterans’ families who would be interested in having a banner made to honour their fallen loved one. These banners will be hung from the light standards on Queen Street during the month of November.

Have your fallen hero remembered every year. Orders must be in by September 1st, 2020.

If you are interested please contact Jim Button at 519-5259670 or email jim.bits@hotmail.com

LEST WE FORGET

Heavenly wisdom

Neews depends endss on facts. ts. Where Whe are you our facts ts coming com ng from? ro News Media Canada is a passion ssionate advocate for the news industry. We support our mem mber m publications in their pursuit of quality journalism nalism.

Wee believe that when society has factss they can W trust, better decisions will be made.

(J.C. Philpot) “The Comforter, the Holy Spirit...will teach you all things.” John 14:26 There is a heavenly wisdom which the Holy and Blessed Spirit alone can give. He sheds a sacred light on His own word of truth, and by His personal and living teachings—opens, enlarges, and persuades the heart to receive what He thus shows and teaches.

However valuable and blessed the book of God is, we cannot be made wise unto salvation by the word itself—without the special teachings of the Holy Spirit as a personal and living instructor. He can suit His teachings to our case; knows when, where, and how to teach us; can bear with our ignorance and stupidity; give us the right lesson at the right time and in the right way; and do for us what no earthly teacher can—write His own laws upon our hearts and give us will and power to keep and obey them.

“I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17

newsmediacanada.ca

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

PAGE 4. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

Editorials & Opinions

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

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

The Citizen is published 51 times a year in Brussels, Ontario by North Huron Publishing Company Inc. Subscriptions are payable in advance at a rate of $38.00/year ($36.19 + $1.81 G.S.T.) in Canada; $180.00/year in U.S.A. and $380/year in other foreign countries. Advertising is accepted on the condition that in the event of a typographical error, only that portion of the advertisement will be credited.

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Community erosion Last week, News Corp Australia announced the shuttering of 112 community and regional newspapers, transitioning 76 to digital-only and closing 36 altogether. Even more astonishing was the reduction in journalists, from around 1,300 to just 375. While the Coronavirus sped up the timeline, the plan had been on the table for some time. The pandemic just exposed the vulnerability of media reliance on local advertising, which has already been eroded by Google and Facebook.

Few people are discussing the impact of these closures and the transition to digital-only news on the local communities. With such a severe reduction of staff, is it possible that local municipal politics will get any kind of coverage? Will the small towns and villages in the rural areas still have reporters to attend community events and celebrations?

The old adage “there’s nothing in the paper” will never have had more basis in fact than when there is no one left to write the stories.

The transition to digital is fine for readers, who are now acclimatized to reading on their screens, even grandparents who are Zooming with their physically-distanced families. What isn’t clear is how to monetize the local news to ensure journalists are covering the community in an era where content is expected but not necessarily valued. – DS

In the line of fire As tensions continue to boil over in the United States following the murder of George Floyd by police in Minneapolis, resulting in protests both violent and non-violent, some situations have continued to perpetuate the cycle of police violence towards people of colour.

This has not been universal. Some protests have been non-violent, in some cases protestors have been joined by local politicians or police officers themselves calling for an end to the racism that allows people of colour to continue to die at the hands of the police. And while cities have burned and people have died, U.S. President Donald Trump has retreated to a bunker in the White House, taking the occasional break from cowering in a corner to blame everyone but himself for what’s taking place, refusing to acknowledge that he’s stoked the fire for what could very well set the table for another civil war.

Yet while protestors of all stripes continue to feel the long arm of the law during these protests, there has been a dramatic increase in police action against accredited journalists in these cities to do their jobs.

It began with the live, on-air arrest of CNN’s Omar Jimenez, followed by at least a dozen more, including a photographer being blinded in one eye by a rubber bullet. As reported by The Washington Post, some journalists have been swept up in regular riot control measures, while others have been injured and/or arrested after clearly identifying themselves as reporters, a violation of constitutional protections for the media, with police telling the reporters they simply don’t care.

While some have been resistant to connect Trump and his hateful rhetoric to the behaviour of his supporters, law enforcement and others, it’s hard not to draw a straight line between the “Make America Great Again” agenda and what’s happening in the country over which Trump governs (again, from a bunker, over Twitter).

In Trump’s America, some people deserve justice and others don’t; some lives matter and others don’t. The country is slowly but surely being made in Trump’s image and if he has his way, there won’t be anyone left to tell of the injustices that took place as he hid away. – SL

A time for real change The World Health Organization, in an unrelated document talking about improved healthcare for the elderly the world over, hit the nail on the head a year ago when it released a document called “A society is measured by how it cares for its elderly citizens”.

The headline was, undoubtedly, a callback to U.S. Vice-President Hubert Humphrey’s words in 1977: “The moral test of government is how that government treats those who are in the dawn of life, the children; those who are in the twilight of life, the elderly; those who are in the shadows of life, the sick, the needy and the handicapped.”

If that is indeed the case, then our governments, both federal and provincial, have an awful lot to answer for in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic and what it has unveiled about how our elderly are treated. As horror stories are unveiled about situations in long-term care homes so dire even military-trained individuals are finding them hard to stomach, Ontario and Canada need to take a long, hard look in the mirror and decide whether this is the moment our lack of caring for our elders became public and whether this is the watershed moment for elder care.

Fortunately for those of us in Huron County, our retirement homes and long-term care centres seem to be in far better shape than those receiving damning report cards. Only vigilance, however, will keep things this way and make sure, if and when each of us needs such a facility, one still exists that treats the elderly with respect and care. – JDS

Looking Back Through the Years June 6, 1963 Brussels played host to the annual North Huron Masonic church service, which was held at Melville Presbyterian Church.

Captain Stanley Newman of the Salvation Army in Wingham gave the service’s address, while a men’s choir from Guelph provided music.

Ken Ashton’s students at Brussels Public School took a field trip to Cousins Dairy and Creamery to observe milk processing and the butter churning process. George Cousins was the class’ guide for the day.

Brussels Park would be the setting of the year’s Hockey Club Carnival, which was scheduled for June 21-22. The event would include a midway and a “Monster Dance” on one of the nights.

June 9, 1971 A Letter to the Editor on the front page of The Blyth Standard asked numerous questions about the state of Blyth Union Cemetery.

Raymond and Jean Griffiths asked about the status of the cemetery board and expressed their disappointment in the tall grass and other aspects of the state of the cemetery, saying its condition had deteriorated to the point of being a “public disgrace”.

The Huron County Federation of Agriculture held a special ceremony to welcome its 1,000th member. It was John Rutherford of RR2, Lucknow who was presented with his membership pin for his West Wawanosh farm, making it an even 1,000 members for the organization.

Bruce Elliott, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Elliott of Blyth, was among those who graduated from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto on June 5. He planned to practise in Guelph.

Lloyd King was set to retire as manager of the Blyth CIBC branch on June 16. There would be a banquet followed by a dance to mark the occasion.

The Blyth PeeWee baseball team lost its first game of the season, falling to Belgrave on June 4 by a score of 14-13. Belgrave scored seven runs in the last inning of the game to wipe out a 13-7 Blyth lead.

June 9, 1999 Helen Johns of the Progressive Conservative Party cruised to victory in Huron-Bruce, defeating Liberal Ross Lamont to be reelected in the riding.

The vote that re-elected Johns was a close one. Johns earned nearly 21,000 votes, while Lamont ended just under 19,000. Tony McQuail of the NDP received just over 4,100 votes, while Linda Freiburger of the Family Coalition Party received just under 1,500 votes.

While Huron County had always been known for its agricultural production, marijuana growing was becoming increasingly prominent in the area. OPP Detective Mike Scott said the police had been finding over 10,000 plants per year in the community and those numbers were continuing to grow.

“It’s just overwhelming,” Scott said. “Last year we had to actually leave some because we couldn’t get to it before our time with the helicopter ran out.”

Thanks to the Students Advisory Council and the Brussels Lions Club, the ribbon was cut on a brand new playground at Brussels Public School.

The Blyth CIBC marked 100 years in the village with a celebration at Blyth Lions Park.

Kendra Carter of Blyth led the local portion of the Law

Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, which raised plenty of money locally for the cause.

June 3, 2010 After over 100 concerned citizens rallied on the front steps of the Central Huron municipal office, seeking a new fire protection deal between the municipality and its cross-border partners, a tentative agreement was reached between Central Huron and North Huron Councils.

Among those spearheading the efforts for a new deal were Rick Elliott of Blyth and Jacqui Empson Laporte from Auburn. Both spoke at the demonstration in Clinton, which led to a special council meeting on the subject, held in Londesborough.

Laporte also wrote a Letter to the Editor in The Citizen saying municipal amalgamation has complicated issues like fire coverage and hospital services for border communities like Auburn.

Fire coverage for Central Huron, provided by North Huron in the northern portion of Central Huron, would operate on an escalating cost scale, according to the new agreement, eventually reaching $98,000 in 2012.

Londesborough-area teen Ray Huether had been drafted by the Saginaw Spirit of the Ontario Hockey League. Taken in the fifth round, Huether was the 83rd draft pick of 300 spots.

Huether had been playing for the Huron-Perth AAA Minor Lakers and said he was proud to have been drafted by the same team that drafted Jonathan Toews, one of his favourite players.

A vote to determine the future of Brussels and Grey Central Public Schools was scheduled for June 22.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 5.

Other Views On this issue, we can thank Trump

A

fter three and a half years in office, U.S. President Donald Trump has finally done something I can totally support.

Of course Trump being Trump, vengeance more than moral justice was behind his proposal last week to strip social media companies of their exemption from libel laws.

After years of using Twitter to attack opponents, spread lies and stir up divisions, Trump reacted angrily when the company attached a warning to readers to check the facts after he claimed in a Tweet that mail-in ballots led to election fraud.

Within two days he signed an executive order which attempts to limit the power of large social media platforms by reinterpreting a critical 1996 law that shields websites and tech companies from lawsuits. Back then companies like Twitter managed to persuade politicians they should not be accountable to the same laws that applied to newspapers and radio and television stations. They were not publishers, they claimed, simply like the wire that carries telephone conversations. So the person using the internet to communicate bore responsibility, not the company that broadcast those opinions.

When politicians bought into that argument, they essentially reshaped the future in favour of social media. While traditional newspapers and radio and television stations were still responsible for their content and could be sued if they libeled someone, companies like Twitter, Facebook and Google worked under different rules. While traditional media spent billions on content, whether entertainment or factual news, social media got free content, either created by their users or, in the case of Google, often stolen from newspapers and television stations.

Social media then aggregated information

Keith Roulston From the cluttered desk about their readers’ preferences and sold advertising to companies wanting to reach those users. They took away the ad revenue needed to support the companies that actually reported the news and created entertainment.

Social media companies put forward, and won, a very Trumpian argument – they should have all the privileges of wealth and power with none of the responsibilities. In doing so, these companies enabled the worst aspects of the internet, the sort of poisonous culture that is creating a divided world.

Ironically, President Trump has been one of the worst examples of the sort of user who takes advantage of social media to spread hate and lies. For years he perpetuated the lie that former U.S. President Barack Obama was not born in the U.S. and therefore should not have been eligible to be president. Today he regularly calls Obama a crook (using all caps in his Tweets).

Trump attacked four American-born Democratic congresswomen by telling them to “go back and help fix the totally broken and crime infested places from which they came.”

In each case, Twitter allowed the Tweets to stand.

If Trump gets his way (there is a lot of legal opinion that says he doesn’t have the power to make it happen), he could be one of the biggest victims of the change. If Twitter could be held accountable, for instance, for Trump’s

continued suggestion that CNN TV host Joe Scarborough was responsible for the death of a former staffer decades ago, (when Scarborough has been cleared of any involvement), both Twitter and Trump could be sued. Here’s betting Twitter might regret that after Trump revived a decades-old conspiracy theory, the company only said it was “deeply sorry” for the pain the President’s Tweets caused.

Trump, as always, sees himself as a victim.

Before signing the executive order, he said the move was to “defend free speech from one of the gravest dangers it has faced in American history.

“A small handful of social media monopolies controls a vast portion of all public and private communications in the United States. They’ve had unchecked power to censor, restrict, edit, shape, hide, alter, virtually any form of communication between private citizens and large public audiences.”

One person’s “free speech” of course, is another person’s hate speech, fake news or conspiracy theory.

I’ve long argued that the fastest way to restore balance to the wild west of social media is to level the playing field and make social media companies accountable to the same libel laws as traditional media. If libel lawyers were waiting to file suits against social media companies and their users the way they do newspapers, there’d be a lot less defamation and lies.

People may argue that social media is so vast you can’t expect companies to be held responsible for everything that appears on their platforms. I’d argue that with great power comes great responsibility. If you can’t prevent your platform from promoting hate and disinformation, you don’t deserve to be making your billion-dollar profits.

A medical scare at the Scott house

T

he Scott family had a pretty big scare last week when my daughter, Mary Jane, spiked a fever of 39°C (102°F) on the evening of May 27, leading to concern that somehow we had brought the possibly-fatal COVID-19 virus into our home.

It wasn’t until after 5 p.m. that Mary Jane started acting less like herself, leading me to run for the trusty ear thermometer and the discovery of her high temperature. We called her family doctor’s office and set about a long, sleepless night of waking her up every hour or so to take her temperature and administer medicines when appropriate.

Prior to that long night, I donned enough clothes to keep my whole body covered, put on a mask and gloves and got my computer from the office, fully ready to work from home for the next two weeks. I contacted my coworkers and let them know about the situation, advised my immediate family and wondered what the future held.

That night was rough, not just because of the lack of sleep (and I mean, who could sleep thinking their toddler might have contracted this boogeyman of a disease?) but also because of the fact that, whether it was COVID-19 or not, there’s very little I could do to comfort Mary Jane.

It was, and I’m not being dramatic here, terrifying. I’m the kind of person who prepares for the worst case scenario in everything. When COVID-19 broke, I was fully ready for The Citizen to go digital-only so no one would have to travel to and from post offices. I was also fully ready to be told to go home because the paper couldn’t run under such circumstances (thankfully, we’ve found ways to make everything work). I guess I’m just the kind of guy who is always waiting for the other shoe to fall.

Denny Scott Denny’s Den That said, how do you prepare yourself for the idea that your child may be facing down a disease that, even in Huron County, has claimed the lives of 10 per cent of those who contracted it.

After a sleepless night, we heard back from the doctor’s office. While Mary Jane’s doctor wasn’t available, another doctor would call back and walk us through the assessment. He echoed words that my coworkers and family had said: it likely wasn’t COVID-19 and might just be a passing infection. Still, he directed us to get her tested in Goderich.

Still with a pretty high fever, we bundled Mary Jane up in blankets and made our way to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Goderich where we were directed under the awning of the structure. A medical professional covered head-to-toe in personal protection equipment walked up to the car and asked which one of us was the patient and I pointed to the seat behind me where Mary Jane was sitting, just excited to have her window open. That excitement was short-lived, however, as the testing process isn’t comfortable. It requires a swab being pushed into your nose pretty far and Mary Jane was not a fan.

After that, the waiting period started.

Fortunately for my family, the days of it taking more than a week to find out the results are now done. The test was on Thursday and we

knew by Saturday that, thankfully, Mary Jane hadn’t contracted COVID-19. By that time, the fever had broken and she was, more or less, back to her regular self (though she was a bit exhausted, no doubt from her paranoid father insisting we take her temperature every hour through two nights).

After three days of fearing the worst, we were on the other side and everything was going to be alright, but, for some reason, I still didn’t feel happy about what had happened.

As I’ve written here in the past, the onus for any sickness in the house is likely on me right now. Even with my wife finally able to go see her horse thanks to Ontario Premier Doug Ford opening some recreation sites like her boarding barn, the vast majority of connection with the outside world is through me.

So unless Mary Jane picked up some kind of bug digging in the garden with my wife, Mary Jane got sick because of either my wife or myself, and I was the more likely candidate.

So why wasn’t I happy? Because, despite the fact that North Huron is exceptionally fortunate to not have a single confirmed case of COVID-19 (as of writing this), people still aren’t taking this threat seriously. People aren’t respecting the rules.

Smarten up. Keep your kids home and tell other people’s kids to stay in their homes, or at least not come to yours.

Don’t invite people over and decline invitations from other people. Just because we don’t have a bunch of morons partying in a park on the nightly news doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of stupidity being practised in our own backyards by ignoring the guidelines put in place.

Wash your hands. Follow the rules. It’s the only way we’re going to get through this.

Shawn Loughlin Shawn’s Sense

R.I.P. Handshakes

W

ith people dying from COVID-19 and infections remaining consistent in many parts of the world, the virus is certainly no laughing matter. Having said that, something has been nagging at me: we may be witnessing the end of the handshake.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the embattled Director of the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has already suggested that we never shake hands again and it’s hard to argue with him now that we’ve seen what body contact can mean in the midst of a pandemic. Other entities like CNN, the BBC and Harvard University have also weighed in.

So, like those who spent years honing the perfect signature living in an era of contactless payment and online shopping or excellent parallel parkers seeing the development of self-parking cars (I count myself as both), those who have perfected their handshake over time may also have to put this skill to rest.

As you might imagine, the history of pressing the flesh is spotty. There isn’t a historical moment to which we can point and say, “Yes, the first handshake.” However, carvings seem to show handshaking in the B.C. era, so it’s been going on for a while.

In those days – and for centuries following, no doubt – a handshake was said to be a sign of peace to whomever owned the hand you were shaking; a demonstration that you were not carrying a weapon or meant that person any harm. These days, without the need to carry a weapon on a daily basis (unless you’re American), it’s seen as a sign of respect. If someone extends their hand to you and you don’t extend yours back, that’s a clear sign there’s a problem. You don’t leave someone “hanging” unless you really have a reason.

For men, the handshake technique has been passed down from father to son. No doubt most men remember having that conversation with their fathers, and then again with their sons. The importance of a firm, respectful handshake could not be overstated. The firmbut-not-too-firm grip, eye contact and proper technique was essential to being a man, at least in years past. Though it could go too far.

My father, for example, was in the Toronto Police Service and he taught me to squeeze the life out of any hand I shook. That, I have come to learn, can be a bit much. Trying to injure someone as you shake hands could easily be seen as overcompensation, hence my adapted, firm-but-not-too-firm style of handshake.

The handshake is essential in so many facets of life. In our industry, we have what’s known as the grip-and-grin photograph. One person gives the other a cheque and they stand next to one another, shaking hands with their right hands while holding the cheque with their lefts (grip) and smiling for the camera (grin).

World leaders depend on the handshake to show one another respect and communicate co-operation between nations. U.S. President Donald Trump, for example, has a weird shake-and-pull-in style to assert dominance, while others have adopted a less aggressive way of shaking hands.

Your handshake can say a lot about you. I’ll never forget, for example, an episode of the animated series King of the Hill featuring a fictitious version of former President George W. Bush. Hank Hill, lifelong Republican, meets Bush, only to sink into a crisis of identity, disappointment and confusion when Bush extends to Hill a limp handshake.

So, if this is it for the hallowed handshake, let it be said that it was good while it lasted. It connected us, it put us at ease and it could communicate more than words ever could.

PAGE 6. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

Gardening a popular COVID-19 distraction A NOTE FROM BETTY

By Betty Graber Watson Call 887-9231

The start of something great The Brussels Leo Club is making good on its plans to refresh the playground equipment at the conservation area just off Alfred Street in the village. Last week Ryan Construction started preparing the grounds for the upgrade. (Photo submitted)

Well, what did you get done this week? Some days feel like nothing is accomplished, and then the next, things go quite smoothly. I think the sun seems to help.

This COVID-19-driven isolation has been a time to see how we handle independence from our usual acquaintances. Things we did before have needed to be adapted and some are definitely easier than others. We got so busy in our other world, we did things with little thought, just because we’ve always done it that way. New thoughts, new ways. So, more pondering; you still have time,

At the Branch

Brussels Branch meeting held via Zoom

By Jo-Ann McDonald The Brussels Legion Branch held its general meeting for May on Tuesday evening via Zoom. There were 10 comrades online attending the meeting. The normal opening ceremonies were conducted and roll call taken.

The Comrades received a copy of the April general meeting the day before the meeting, so they had time to review the minutes, which were passed.

Membership reported the passing of two Comrades, Lloyd Glanville and Bob Kellington. Seniors reported that no entries were received for the seniors’ literary poem, short story or essay project. We have extended the deadline for another week, so if you have an entry, please send it to the Branch at Box 128, Brussels.

The treasurer supplied the financial reports prior to the meeting and they were reviewed with the normal bills of the month approved for payment. The PRO Chairman will take part in a Zoom meeting for the PRO coming up.

The catering committee reports that all four Comrades taking the food safety course passed. The fish fry committee reports no new dates for events. The Branch discussed having a drive-by fish fry on Father’s Day and have contacted the Huron Perth Public Health about protocol. Further plans will be announced as they are made. Instead of having breakfast with the firefighters, fish with the Legion!

The cost of the lift renewal has risen, but can be covered by the poppy funds. The House Chairman

investigated the cost of some new windows and a new storage unit for the propane tanks. The storage shack needs some repair and will be investigated.

The Brussels Cemetery decoration service is usually held the last Sunday in June. With the uncertainty of COVID-19, the Branch will not be holding a public celebration. The Branch will hold the event and will livestream it for people to see and create a video. We are pleased to see many have already placed flowers at the cemetery and expect there will be more before the end of the month.

The service at the Brussels Cemetery is a celebration of the lives of those who have passed and now rest at Brussels Cemetery. This is for everyone in our community who rests there, not just those who

were members of Brussels Legion.

The event was once a collaborated effort between the Brussels Legion, Western Star Lodge 149 and the Rebecca Lodge; the demise of the Lodges then left the Legion to carry on, which we are pleased to do. This is for the community and the families of those who have passed in their way. The Legion’s Padre, Sandra Cable delivers a sermon and the officials of the churches are invited to attend and read the names of their parishioners who have passed during the past year. The Legion reads the names of their Comrades who have passed in their way. Although it will be different this year without community members or other Church representatives, the Brussels Legion is going to honour those who have passed in their way. Please watch for further information on the cemetery decoration event, slated for June 28.

PRO Chairman Jo-Ann McDonald took part in a PRO meeting via Zoom on the weekend. Normally there would be 40 in attendance, but there were only eight online for the meeting. It went well and there was some good information passed on to those participating.

it seems. As we think of the future, what will we embrace? As community returns, what is worth our time? What gives our life meaning? What will help the world?

It’s time for a redo, a review of what we do and why we do it. Everyone needs to think. Which events are meaningful? Is the gathering held with purpose and does everyone there agree on the purpose? Yes it’s our time to adjust our habits.

Gardening has gained in popularity with the extra time we have available this year. So my search for seed potatoes has been irritating, but quite fun. Two places that sell seeds of many kinds were sold out of potatoes. Then community connections took hold. I have now planted some nice sprouts.

Then the Thompsons called, their garden was producing potatoes in places that other seeds were already doing well. So, transplanted potatoes with inches of new growth were moved from the Morris side of life to the Grey section, just for us.

Thanks Jeff and Cathy for leaving the spuds to regrow and to MaryAnn and Jeff for the offer. So now our green plot feels like a community garden with Marie, MaryAnn, Jeff twice and Cathy all contributing.

Thanks.

Keep safe, keep your distance and be sure to look after your physical and mental health.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS Visit The Citizen online at huroncitizen.ca

HURON EAST FIREFIGHTERS BREAKFASTS

CANCELLED Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Brussels, Grey and Seaforth Firefighters Breakfasts will be cancelled this year.

Back at it After getting the go-ahead to open late last month, the Walton Raceway held its first mud bog of the season on May 24. Organizers say the event was well attended while recognizing COVID-19 restrictions. (John Stephenson photo)

We thank you for your past support and look forward to serving you next year.

Stay safe and healthy

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 7.

Legion unveils veterans’ banners

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Blyth will soon become the latest community to roll out banners celebrating its veterans and war heroes.

Spearheaded by the Blyth Legion, the banner program is now underway with the first banner, portraying celebrated World War II hero Russell Cook. Organizers hope that once Cook’s banner is ready, it will be displayed in the village somewhere to demonstrate what the banners will look like.

Legion Second Vice-President Jim Button is spearheading the project with the help of President and North Huron Councillor Ric McBurney.

The project was first discussed last fall after previous attempts to initiate it stalled.

Button, who drives for OneCare, says he had seen banners celebrating veterans in surrounding communities and felt it should definitely be adopted in Blyth.

Taking on a more active role in his local Legion membership as second vice-president, Button asked about the banners and was told that while it had been suggested before, nothing ever came of it.

He said the village’s veterans deserve to be remembered and honoured for all they gave to their community as well as to their country.

The conversation began last fall and the project has really picked up some steam in recent weeks.

Button began his research by speaking with people from both Clinton and Goderich who had been involved in the production of

banners locally, which led him to a Hanover-based company that produces veterans’ banners for communities throughout the province.

However, Button still wasn’t quite satisfied with what he was seeing, which led him back to his home community. He dug up an old banner from the main street and started inquiring with some local businesses and found that Blyth’s year-round banners are printed at Blyth Printing and then stitched and prepared by Irene Kellins at Stitches with a Twist. In addition to the great local craftsmanship, Button said both businesses looked favourably upon the Legion with a reasonable price for each banner. He also felt good about being able to support two local businesses in the creation of the banners.

BIA considers shifting market

Set to return Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) organizers hope the weekly Blyth Outdoor Market returns on Thursdays, but the group may shift the time for the event. (File photo) The Blyth Outdoor Market will not be expanding with a digital presence as was previously reported by the Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA), and when it will be able to open this year remains unconfirmed.

During the BIA’s May 28 meeting, Chair David Sparling said previously-announced efforts to consider an online presence were being abandoned because farmers’ markets and businesses were being allowed to open, so the market may soon be able to return to Blyth.

“With businesses opening, spending time and money on digital aspects of the market may not be worth it,” he said.

The market may also be rescheduled, Sparling said, to reflect the fact the Blyth Festival will not be having a season this year.

“Last year, the market ran from 48 p.m.,” he said. “It fit nicely with matinee and evening shows at the Festival.”

Sparling said the Blyth Community Betterment Group had noted, during its rutabaga giveaway on Thursdays, there is significant foot traffic between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursdays, leading Sparling to suggest moving the market to a 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. time slot.

“We’re checking with vendors to see if that would work for timing,” Sparling said. “We’re also going to see when the vendors would be

comfortable opening up their stalls at the outdoor market.”

Sparling said updated information would be made available as soon as possible.

Irene Kellins of Stitches with a Twist suggested a 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. time slot alongside Cherrey’s Dog House, a food truck that utilizes the municipal parking lot weekdays during the same time period.

“This is an opportunity to focus on the needs of locals instead of tourists,” she said.

Sparling asked if the fact that the market typically has food vendors could be a problem as it would be competing with Cherrey’s Dog House, a locally-owned and operated business.

John Stewart, who was attending the meeting on behalf of the Lions, said it “could ruffle some feathers” as the Cherrey family pays a yearly fee to North Huron to be allowed to sell there. North Huron Councillor Kevin Falconer said, however, that North Huron would have little say in what is allowed at the market since it takes place on private property.

No action was taken as a result of the report or discussion.

Looking forward to reporting card scores From Marilyn’s Desk

By Marilyn Craig Call 523-9318

Happy birthday to Albert Wasson who celebrates on June 5; Katie Dockstader, Goderich, June 6; Rylee Chalmers, June 9; Jim Howson, Bayfield and Ron Howson, June 10.

Happy birthday everyone.

Happy anniversary to Barry and Cindy MacDonald who will celebrate June 8.

Another week has gone by and we are all still at home staying safe. We are all looking for things to pass the time. Now that the warmer weather is here, we can get outside and catch up on the yard work or just enjoy being outside in the fresh air and enjoying the spring blossoms, even though with the warm weather, the blossoms didn’t last long. Somehow

digging in the earth makes us feel better. It does not seem right not to be reporting euchre and shoot results. Hopefully we will soon be back to playing cards and enjoying time with each other. Stay safe and well this coming week.

NEWS FROM BLYTH

Now, the Legion will be facilitating the creation of banners, at the will of veterans’ families, for $140 each. At that price, Button said, the Legion will cover a one-time replacement of the banner if it’s damaged or worn due to time outside.

McBurney says the production of the first banner is already underway and it should be displayed downtown soon, not only to honour Cook, but to show other families how great the banners look.

He said the banners will be flown on the village’s main street throughout the month of November, but they will be displayed in the Legion for the rest of the year. He hopes that perhaps they can be displayed within Memorial Hall at some point during the year as well, but says those conversations haven’t yet taken place.

Despite not even publicizing the program yet, Button said the early response has been very good. Families need only to get in touch with him to start the process. From there, Button will provide a family member with a form to fill out for some pertinent information and request a picture of the veteran and that will all be provided to Blyth Printing to create the banner.

For more information, contact Button at jim.bits@hotmail.com or at 519-525-9670. The deadline for orders is Sept. 1.

Honouring

Broken Dryer?

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

The Blyth Legion will be erecting banners like the one above to honour veterans. (Photo submitted)

During COVID-19, The Citizen is available for free online at huroncitizen.ca

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

BLYTH PRINTING

PAGE 8. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

Sports Walton Raceway re-opens with successful events

Grabbing some serious air The Walton Raceway has wasted no time since opening, hosting events like practices for upcoming races and mud bogs. (Mark Nonkes photo)

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen With the Walton Raceway now open for motocross and mud bog action, one of the county’s biggest tourism draws is again welcoming riders. In addition, the Walton TransCan, one of the county’s biggest events of the year, is set to go ahead in 2020.

Melody Hodgson, co-owner of the raceway with her husband Brett Lee, said it feels good to be back open

again, especially at a time when many other businesses and event sites aren’t so lucky.

The raceway held successful and well-attended practice sessions on May 22-23, followed by a mud bog on May 24. While the crowd at the mud bog was a fraction of the number of people who would normally attend the raceway’s May 2-4 mud bog, one of the biggest of the season, Hodgson said it was a healthy and enthusiastic crowd.

The raceway had been ready to

open for weeks and was just waiting on a green light from the provincial government, Hodgson said.

However, when the list of the first businesses allowed to open was released, it was unclear if the raceway was among those that could open its doors.

Hodgson said that when the government announced the opening of garden centres and hardware stores just before the Victoria Day weekend, followed by further relaxation of the regulations on May

19, raceways weren’t initially included specifically, but many similar businesses, like campgrounds, were allowed to open.

Hodgson started making some calls and speaking to decisionmakers and, once the terminology got a little more specific, the raceway was able to open its doors, which sent the Lee family into a rush to ensure their facility was ready for the public.

The family had been preparing the expansive site to be ready to open in April or May before the COVID-19 pandemic struck, so it was largely ready for the public when the news broke that the site could open, Hodgson said, but she worked on certain guidelines and restrictions to ensure everyone, from the riders to the staff working the front gates, remained safe during any event.

Over the weekend, Hodgson said it wasn’t overly difficult to keep everyone compliant because the site is outdoors and expansive. However,

as professional races return to the raceway, raceway organizers will have to play it week by week.

Hodgson isn’t sure if spectators will be allowed to take in the races anytime soon, only time will tell as the province continues to slowly reopen.

Looking ahead, as a result of the pandemic the raceway implemented online registration and waiver forms.

The process is so streamlined, Hodgson said, it’s a wonder she and Lee didn’t look to bring it in earlier.

The couple does have some time to work out the kinks, however, with its first professional race not scheduled until late June. To that point, while they plan on moving ahead with the TransCan, Hodgson says that no doubt it will look different than the TransCans of past years.

She says things are rapidly changing, so they’ll just keep their ears open and adapt to the situation.

For more information, visit waltonraceway.com.

Car show to hit Blyth, Auburn This Sunday, an estimated 100 or more cars will on display throughout the area as part of the Rolling Car Show organized by Nick Daer of Goderich.

The show will begin in Goderich at 1 p.m. then make its way through a route that includes Bayfield, Clinton, Seaforth, Blyth, Wingham, Lucknow and Auburn before making its way back to Goderich.

While he can’t be sure how many cars will be in the show, Daer estimates that the convoy should be in Bayfield by about 1:15 p.m., in Blyth by about 2:15-2:30 p.m. and then wrapped up and back in Goderich by about 4 p.m. or so. He

said he tried to keep the show under two-and-a-half or three hours because there are no public washrooms along the route.

Daer had been considering the event for a few months, he said in an interview with The Citizen, because so many of the local car shows have been cancelled due to the COVID19 pandemic. When he saw that Glen Chiasson of Seaforth was working to get a similar event up and running, the two joined forces and have been given the green light for Sunday’s show.

Since creating the event on Facebook, nearly 350 people have said they’re interested in it, while

Daer estimates it should have over 100 cars. He did say, however, that all safety precautions due to COVID-19, such as physical distancing, will remain in place for the duration of the show.

Several locals have already expressed interest in the show and plan on including their cars, among them Dalton and Darren Richmond of Blyth and others.

Daer says this will be new to him, but if the event is a success, it could be something he can hold monthly throughout the summer.

For more information, or to get involved, find the Rolling Car Show event page on Facebook.

OPP investigate Blyth thefts

Persons of interest Ontario Provincial Police are seeking the above vehicle and individuals in connection with a theft in Blyth. (Photos submitted)

Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to investigate a break, enter and theft that took place near Blyth this past weekend.

Investigators have since learned on Sunday, May 31 around 3 p.m. two persons attended and broke into a residence located on London Road, north of Blyth. Those responsible forced entry into the unoccupied home through the front door and proceeded to load up their vehicle with various items.

Some of the stolen items include a cherry wood end table, a television, a sheepskin floor rug, a wicker floor rack and some clothing.

The suspect vehicle is described as a black Chevrolet Impala with tinted windows and chrome rims.

Investigators are trying to identify the two persons of interest.

If you have information, please call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or your local police. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or visit 222tips.ca.

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 9.

Rowe starts new journey with Crossroads Cannabis before the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in shutdowns of municipal services.

“Because we’re considered an essential service, we were able to finish the project and tidy up construction,” he said. “Then we had to wait for a chance to be a store.”

In the meantime, Rowe said he looked to hire staff for the new venture and had well over 600 people apply.

“It was very fortunate because we were one of the first five stores in Ontario to be allowed to open,” he said.

The business officially opened last week and there was a great response from the local community, Rowe said. As a matter of fact, he feels the COVID-19 pandemic may have resulted in an opportunity for the store.

“There are a lot of businesses that have taken a substantial financial beating with COVID-19,” he said, adding that may continue with physical distancing and the threat of a second wave. “This is going to play havoc with a lot of retail businesses, especially in small towns that were marginal before.”

The store also offers an online ordering system, allowing customers to just pick up their orders at the store. Rowe said he hopes to have delivery sometime in the near future as well.

Opening the store has been a learning experience, Rowe said, as he’s discovered that, for a plant that has been used for so long, there’s still much to be discovered about cannabis.

“The thing about the cannabis industry that I’ve learned is there are a fair amount of beneficial aspects to the cannabis plant,” he said. “But we might not have even scratched the surface of what can be done with it to help people. People want to get away from some of the familiar pharmaceutical styles of treatment and are looking for a more natural treatment.”

As for Freedom Syrup, the initiative Rowe helped organize on the McGavin farm outside of Walton, he said he still plans to help out there when the pandemic allows them to re-open.

“Cannabis Crossroads is a job, but the syrup business is my passion and a hobby,” he said.

A new path After working for years with his own local businesses, and then working in the energy sector for Henall Co-op, Bob Rowe, who now calls Exeter home, has opened the first cannabis store in the Huron and Perth areas called Crossroad Cannabis. In building the store, he sought to challenge the stigma around the industry, making it visible, transparent and bright to help people feel comfortable coming in for products and advice. (Photo submitted)

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Bob Rowe, best known locally as a former owner and co-owner of JR’s Restaurant in Brussels and a volunteer with Freedom Syrup outside of Walton, recently opened Crossroads Cannabis in Stratford, hoping to offer cannabis and related products to both the city and surrounding rural communities.

With his then-business partner Gerry Wheeler, Rowe owned JR’s for 23 years and most recently retired from the Hensall Co-op.

During a fishing trip with his son Scott, the two started talking about the company Scott worked for, which had a chain of restaurants, including some in Toronto that Scott was part of building, and how the company was looking to expand into cannabis stores.

Rowe said, previously, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO)’s lottery for stores had a lot of restrictions that resulted

in complications and delays and were leaning towards a privatized model, so Scott told him he should try it out.

“I asked him what I would know about cannabis, but he told me it was just another business to run,” he said Rowe retired in January and shortly after started working towards a cannabis store in Exeter, close to his home, however that wasn’t meant to be.

“After [analysis], the footprint wasn’t big enough to facilitate the numbers to spend the money needed to start the project,” he said.

From there, Rowe headed to Stratford where he spent a lot of time doing car counts and talking to landlords, though there were definitely barriers with the latter, he said.

“Not a lot of landlords wanted to talk about a cannabis store,” he said.

“There is a stigma to it, and it may change over time.”

Stratford was a logical place to put the store, he said, not only because

of the “tens of thousands of people” who visit Stratford for tourism reasons, like theatre and musical performances, but because it also allowed him to be close to Brussels, a community he wanted to make sure had access to the store.

He said he finally did find a location at 6118 Huron Street - the first intersection with traffic lights in Stratford when approaching from the west. The intersection, he said, is where roads to Milverton and the bypass for Provincial Highways 7 and 8 meet, leading to a lot of traffic and the name Crossroads Cannabis, alongside its motto: Your Journey Starts Here.

Finding the space was just the first step, he said.

“We went through the process, step-by-step,” he said. “There are a lot of regulations, like police checks.

It just kept moving along.”

He said he had to take a chance and sign a lease and get a building permit as soon as possible.

Fortunately, both came through just

A welcoming atmosphere When starting Crossroads Cannabis in Stratford, Bob Rowe, a well-known local, wanted to make sure people are comfortable in the store regardless of their level of familiarity with cannabis. To achieve that he crafted a clean, bright retail space to welcome customers. (Photo submitted)

Corporation of the Listowel Memorial Hospital and Corporation of the Wingham and District Hospital DUE TO THE COVID- 19 EMERGENCY ORDER REGULATIONS LIMITING GATHERINGS TO NO MORE THAN 5 PEOPLE, THE ANNUAL MEETING & ELECTION OF DIRECTORS WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2020 7:00 pm VIA TELECONFERENCE MEMBERS PLEASE CONTACT 519-291-3120 Ext 6241 OR 519-357-3210 Ext 6241 FOR TELECONFERENCE DETAILS

BY JUNE 8, 2020

Get low Over the weekend the Walton Raceway held its second weekend of practices after COVID-19 restrictions were eased, allowing the site to open two weeks ago. (Mark Nonkes photo)

The Annual Meetings of the Listowel Memorial Hospital and Wingham and District Hospital will be held jointly for the purposes of receiving the financial reports and statements required by the Public Hospitals Act, for the election of Directors, and for the transaction of other such things as may properly come before the meeting.

Copies of the Annual Report/Financial Statements may be obtained at the emergency department entrance of both Hospitals effective June 3, 2020. Memberships granting voting privileges must have been purchased prior to five o’clock p.m., Tuesday, May 26, 2020 in order to vote at the June 10, 2020 Annual Meeting.

PAGE 10. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

G2G trail work starts, to be patrolled PEOPLE AROUND WALTON

By Jo-Ann McDonald Call 887-6570 We sure can go from one extreme to another in a hurry. Just over a week ago we were sweating with summer-like temperatures and then by the weekend we were wearing sweaters and coats. Hard to know how to dress in the morning.

Farming in the area is progressing nicely with many farmers finished with the corn crop and they have since moved onto soybeans. The great weather has made the corn spring out of the ground and give the land a gentle green colour with hopes of a successful crop. Beans will not be long when the warm weather and some rain return this week. White beans are also being planted, so soon all the crops will be in.

Food Bank receives $20,000 The Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre is pleased to announce it has received a grant of $20,000 from the Community Food Centres Canada Good Food Access Fund.

The grant will enable the Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre to purchase nutritional foods for food-aid agency clients in Huron and Perth Counties. Funding is provided in part by the Government of Canada’s Local Food Infrastructure Fund, as part of the Food Policy for Canada. The fund aims to strengthen food systems and facilitate access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.

Huron County Food Bank Distribution Centre’s Executive Director Mary Ellen Zielman stated “this grant will provide funds to strengthen our food system and will facilitate increased safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations in the communities that we serve”.

“Food insecurity was already an urgent problem before the COVID19 crisis, with one in eight Canadians struggling to put food on the table. In a time of national crisis, it is in our nature as Canadians to do what we can for our most vulnerable neighbours. We are grateful to the Government of Canada for their quick response, as well as the many corporate partners and generous donors who have stepped forward” says Nick Saul, CEO of Community Food Centres Canada (CFCC). “The Good Food Access Fund aims to make sure that as many people as possible will be able to get the food that they need. And while we must deal with the current circumstances, CFCC remains committed to advancing policy change that addresses the underlying causes of food insecurity and poverty in Canada. We can’t forget that structural inequity is at the core of so many of the challenges that Canadians face, a fact which painfully confronts us when an emergency like this occurs.”

The Goderich-to-Goderich (G2G) Rail Trail had work done on it this past week. Heading towards Monkton, some were trimming the trees and putting down and packing sandstone to improve the trail for walking and cycling. The trails are for non-motorized use, no ATVs or motorbikes are allowed. Huron County now has six to eight officers trained on ATVs to patrol the trail and lay charges for those breaking the rules.

The G2G Trail group is looking for groups interested in helping with the trail’s maintenance. Information can be obtained from Chris Lee. It is with great sadness to learn of the closing of the Brussels Bulk and Bargain Store. Owner Wendy Marks wrestled with this decision and had

The Walton Raceway has been busy again this past weekend with two more practice days for motocross riders. They had great weather with the cool temperatures and no rain. The track was in great shape, they report.

Congratulations to Chris and Candace Riley on the arrival of a second daughter. Emmalee will be welcomed home by big sister Evelynn.

Delighted to be grandparents again are Jayne Ross and Keith White and Eric and Deb Ross of Brussels.

Carl and Mary Merner are excited about the birth of great-grandson Koen, son of Lexi Merner and Jared Smith. They wanted everyone to know they are anxiously waiting to see the newest addition.

many sleepless nights, but COVID19 has caused a significant loss in revenues. Wendy had a great store with a little of everything.

She was always thinking of the community and how to make a difference. Always a smile and her presence on main street will be missed. She is having a final closing sale in June, so watch for details.

Celebrating birthdays this past week includes Krysta Clarke, GeriLee Godkin, Adam Forbes, and Rob Shortreed to end May. June starts off with Scott Henderson, Neil McGavin, Kyle Pryce, Patricia Andrades, Ernie Lewington, Shelley Coleman, Scott Dalton and Jillian Houston Csoff. Happy birthday to all.

NEWS FROM WALTON

at

the edge of walton

American toad

top: a breeding pair of american toads; left: american toad tadpoles found in a puddle adjacent to a wetland area

Scientific Name: Anaxyrus americanus size:Adults can grow to 11 cm long size: Distribution: Throughout Ontario habitat:American toads can be found anywhere - from mown grass habitat:

and gardens to forests and shady ditches along the road. Like many amphibians, American toads live in ponds during the breeding season and as larvae. Breeding occurs in warm, shallow ponds, shallow streams, and even large puddles!

Characteristics: The American toad is a large, squat toad with brown, reddish or olive skin and dark blotches containing one to two spots or “warts” of various colours. The belly is white with dark spots. These toads often have a light line down the middle of the back. The tadpoles of this species are nearly all black and are always the first ones our students and campers find in our ponds!

fun facts about American Toads:

You cannot get warts from a toad! This common old wive’s tale has been fooling us for years. In fact, the 1. “warts” on the back of the toad are not even warts at all! 2.Toads eat insects and small creatures that live in the soil, like worms and slugs. 3. American toads can eat up to 1000 insects a day! 4.The main predators to toads are snakes, which explains why we have so many garter snakes at the Edge of Walton. 5.American toads hibernate on land, digging a hole backwards to burrow beneath the frost line in the soil. 6.There is only one other type of toad in Ontario, the Fowler’s Toad, and it is located around Lake Erie. 7. American toads are able to live on land because they have thicker skin that helps prevent dehydration. 8. Toads lay their eggs in two strands (see pic below), wrapped around plants and sticks underwater. The eggs can hatch as quickly as a few days, and the tadpole stage can last from 50-65 days.

american toads at the edge of walton: The sandy “Bare Bum Beach” pond located at the Edge of Walton is a favourite breeding ground for American toads. It’s a shallow pond that warms up fast in the spring thanks to the sandy bottom, so around this time each year the shoreline is black with tadpoles! Both the American Toad and its tadpoles have poison glands to deter predators (they make them taste bad). Often when Gary (our farm shih tzu) picks them up he’ll foam at the mouth, but he’s totally fine after he eats some grass. Unfortunately for American toads, their main predator the garter snake is immune to their poison. It’s not uncommon to see a garter snake with toad legs hanging out of its mouth!

Harper’s favourite toad pictures

1.

2.

1. A toad I found last week.

2. Toad eggs.

3. A toad that did not survive the winter.

The edge of walton is a registered non-profit organization and is located at 42932 walton road in walton, ontario

3.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 11.

Well-being platform launches after local trial

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen After a successful trial held in Seaforth, TAMVOES, a new holistic website has been launched and its creators hope it will connect the dots of health, legal and financial information.

Madison McBay, along with some local partners, has been working on the concept for over three years.

With knowledge from numerous aspects of the healthcare industry on her team, McBay sought to collect an individual’s health, legal and financial portfolios in one secure place and have it easily shared with medical professionals at the client’s request.

The company incorporated just over a year ago, in May of 2019 and has been working to recruit healthcare partners and build out the platform in the 12 months since.

The website was soft-launched earlier this month, making it available to people to register for free and begin using all of its features.

TAMVOES, the creators hope, will expand to include artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, creating somewhat of a one-stop shop for an individual’s medical information, reducing redundancies and a lack of communication between agencies along the way.

In fact, though work on the platform had begun long before, McBay said in an interview with The

Citizen that the current COVID-19 pandemic has shown the possibilities for the company and how the platform could be used in times of medical emergency, tracking symptoms, temperature and other vitals through a shareable platform.

The company launched the website’s trial in Huron County, working with clients of different ages. The trial began in Seaforth and expanded throughout Huron County shortly thereafter.

The website is user-based, in which individuals provide much of their own information. The sharing tool will take away repetition within families and professional teams, such as caregivers, lawyers, financial planners and more. In addition, it includes a journal for appointments, contact list of an individual’s team and in-depth health information tracking. Then, clients can add dependants and family members on the platform and share only the information they’re comfortable sharing with whom they’re comfortable sharing it.

McBay said the “My Team” tab in the platform is where sharing really comes into play. It connects professionals and family members, as the client sees fit.

The health profile allows for the client to journal their life. Whether it’s medication taken or treatment received or symptoms like pain tracking, temperature, blood pressure, it can be used to help

Pride flag approved

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Huron County will fly the pride flag at the Huron County courthouse and Huron Perth Public Health location for June to recognize Pride Month and support the LGBTQ community.

Bonnie Baynham, community developer for Huron Perth Public Health, spoke to Huron County Council at its May 20 meeting, which was held virtually, asking that the county declare June Gay Pride Month and that a banner emblazoned with “Pride – Love is Love” be hung at the courthouse.

Councillors were supportive of the initiative, but explained that there were a few barriers to granting the request.

First, the Huron County procedural bylaw prevents the county from making any “declarations” along the lines of that being requested, though council could have voted to go against its procedural bylaw, explained Clerk Susan Cronin. Furthermore, the public works department had concerns about hanging a banner at the courthouse, as opposed to flying a flag. Banners in the past have caused damage to the building, which is why the department was warning against them.

Central Huron Deputy-Mayor Dave Jewitt spoke in favour of the request, saying he would have been in favour of the declaration, though he didn’t want to go against the county’s procedural bylaw.

Council approved the amended request, allowing the flags to fly in front of the two buildings.

Jewitt, however, asked for a report

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from staff for a future meeting regarding the county’s policy on declarations so it could be discussed further.

diagnose diseases and viral infections early.

This network should expand, McBay says, as more people begin to use the platform and as founders recruit a wider collection of healthcare professional partners.

As far as security goes, McBay says the company is working with “the best in the business” to ensure the TAMVOES system is as secure as any online banking app, the style of which is used around the world by millions every day.

The TAMVOES system, McBay

says, could be especially useful during times of pandemic like those we’re living through right now. Due to the isolation being felt by many people, especially older populations, the platform will be able to connect them with their healthcare professionals and loved ones, getting them the help they need without a hospital visit in most cases.

As it continues to build out, McBay is working with Blackberry Limited to integrate a secure messaging and file storage feature.

She believes that this partnership

will add a lot of value to the company and allow users to feel even more confident in the security measures TAMVOES is taking.

Artificial intelligence and machine learning will also be utilized as the company continues to grow, McBay said.

They also hope to eventually connect to wearable technology through the platform like an Apple Watch or a Fitbit to tap into heart rate and other vitals.

To learn more, or to register for a free account, visit tamvoes.com.

Time for the outdoors When the weather turned warm, many looked to their gardens or went for walks around their communities. This group opted for the four-legged variety of a walk, heading out into the Hullett Conservation Area on horseback over the weekend. (Mark Nonkes photo)

Looking for local heroes 35th Annual Citizen of the Year Award Nominations Open 2019 Citizen of the Year award recipients. Pictured from left, publisher Deb Sholdice, Jane Smyth, Mary Douma and editor Shawn Loughlin.

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 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

I feel she/he deserves this award because______________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Nomination Deadline July 31, 2020.

Name and phone number of nominator Fax: 519-523-9140 Box 429, Blyth, ON N0M 1H0 or Box 152 Brussels, ON N0G 1H0

PAGE 12. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

Blyth BIA to consider cost of replacing signs, banners

By Denny Scott The Citizen

The Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) has three potential projects on the books that it will be pricing out in the next month and assessing their affordability.

During the BIA’s May 28 meeting, held virtually, Chair David Sparling said the COVID-19 pandemic and its

impact on the BIA’s budget may result in changes being made to which projects to pursue.

Right now, the group is looking at three separate projects, he said, that could go ahead if the group can afford them: replacing the light post banners that adorn the main street, replacing the changeable letter signs at the north and south ends of the community and replacing the

A good message During a trail walk in Wingham, sisters Avery and Sadie Toll found a nice message painted on a rock. The two left the rock, inset, for others to find. (Photo submitted).

wayfinding signs, which are out of date.

The banners, Sparling said, are in need of replacement.

“The existing banners are getting tired,” he said. “The lettering has faded. There was a report from a citizen that one had blown off and was delivered to the [Blyth and District Community Centre].”

Sparling said he had asked Blyth Printing, the company that made the originals, for replacement suggestions and the company produced some drafts including one that sported a blue colour, matching the wayfinding signs, and one with a dark blue colour and a slogan at the top and the bottom. A price, however, wasn’t available.

Sparling noted, with the Blyth Legion considering banners honouring local veterans, it would make sense to get new banners for the entire downtown so there isn’t a disparity in quality between them.

The changeable letter signs are “shook”, Sparling said, and in dire need of repair, however, in researching the issue he noted another problem: one of the signs has gone missing.

“We don’t know where it went,” he said, referring to the sign at the south end of the community, which was in better shape than its matching sign at the north.

Sparling also said, before the new signs are erected, the BIA will have to set out rental agreements and policies for deciding which messages to communicate and how much it will cost to rent the sign.

Originally, Sparling said the signs would have been repairable if the frame was still salvageable and only the wooden display surface of the sign needed to be replaced. If the wayward sign can’t be found, however, it will result in a significantly higher cost, Sparling said.

The wayfinding signs are likely going to be the most difficult project to plan for, Sparling said, as there is significantly more work than originally anticipated.

The wayfinding signs, the totem-

Huron East man faces charges An investigation conducted by the Huron County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Crime Unit has resulted in sexual assault and other sex-related offences being laid against a Huron East resident.

The charges arise from events that took place in Seaforth during the 1990s when the victim was a teenager. The accused was a supervisor and golf instructor to the victim during this time period.

Huron County OPP has charged a 61-year-old Huron East man with the following offences: • Sexual Assault - Two Counts • Sexual Interference - Two Counts • Invitation to Sexual Touching Two Counts • Sexual Exploitation • Voyeurism.

The accused was arrested on May 19 and has since been released from custody with a future court date at the Ontario Court of Justice in Goderich.

Any person with information regarding this incident should immediately contact Huron OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or (519) 524-8314.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

Victims of sexual assault are not alone. If you or someone you know is in need of support, there are local resources available to help. One such resource is Victim Services of Huron County they can be reached at (519) 600-4108.

If you are in an immediate need of police, dial 911.

LURING CHARGES LAID Members of the Huron County OPP Detachment have arrested and charged a resident of Norfolk County with multiple sexual-related offences following an internet luring investigation.

In February, the OPP Child Sexual Exploitation Unit and the Huron OPP Crime Unit began investigating after learning of information about a possible internet child luring case.

After a lengthy investigation, officers were able to determine the accused engaged in sexually explicit online communications with a 15year-old victim. An in-person meeting was later arranged whereupon the accused proceeded to sexually assault the victim.

A 37-year-old male from Simcoe has been charged with: • Luring a Person Under 16 years of age by means of Telecommunication • Invitation to Sexual Touching Person Under 16 years of Age • Sexual Assault • Sexual Interference.

The accused remained in custody with a court appearance scheduled for May 29 at the Ontario Court of Justice in Goderich.

style light blue signs throughout the community directing travellers to amenities and points of interest, are woefully out of date, Sparling said.

“Blyth Printing will have a quote to us today,” he said. “We were surprised at how much the signage has changed. The requirements to bring them up to date over just the last several years are significant.”

He said there was a budget for changing the signs, but, with the amount of changes necessary, he anticipates it may rise and the BIA will need to choose what to pursue.

“In June we will have a lot of decisions to make,” Sparling said.

“We will have a handle on costs for these proposed items and a handle on what the COVID-19 costs have been as well as any additional expenses. In June, a number of our big decisions are going to have to be moved on so we can get the work going very quickly.

“We will have to choose what we want to do, what we can and cannot do,” he said. “The amount of work for our signage needs may not fit in the budget.”

Sign of things to come Toyin Banjoko, left, owner of the Brussels Pharmacy, was one of four organizations that donated to the Brussels Community Development Trust for a new digital sign for the village. Banjoko recently presented a cheque for $500 to John Lowe, secretary of the Trust. (Photo submitted)

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 13.

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Agriculture

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Brussels Livestock report

Fancy cattle bring high premium at sale Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending May 28 were 2,150 cattle and 636 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday quality fed steers and heifers sold on a strong active trade with cattle selling $3 to $5 higher and fancy cattle bringing a further premium. Choice steers and heifers sold $160 to $174. Second cut steers and heifers sold $147 to $160. Cows sold actively with stronger prices.

On Thursday veal sold steady.

Lambs and sheep sold steady, goats sold lower. On Friday calves and yearlings sold on a strong active trade with prices steady to last week.

Ron Smith of Denfield consigned nine heifers. One red heifer weighed 1,310 lbs. and sold for a price of $164.

Chris Smith of Brussels, consigned 22 steers. One charolais steer weighed 1,605 lbs. and sold for a price of $176.

There were 200 cows on offer.

Beef sold $92 to $98 with sales to $109; D1 and D2, $82 to $87; D3, $74 to $81.

H.P. Mielhausen of Lions Head, consigned five cows. One gold cow weighed 1,330 lbs. and sold for a price of $109.

There were nine bulls selling $102.50 to $159. John Richardson of Harriston, consigned three head. One blue bull weighed 2,010 lbs. and sold for a price of $159.

There were 150 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $139 to $189 with sales to $197; good holsteins, $115 to $126 with sales to $139; SL

heavy holsteins, $100 to $118; heavy holsteins, $104 to $114.

Owen B. Martin of Wallenstein, consigned 10 head. One pied heifer weighed 895 lbs. and sold for an average price of $197.

Lambs under 50 lbs. sold $276 to $305; 50 - 64 lbs., $283.50 to $302; 65 - 79 lbs., $272 to $294; 80 - 94 lbs., $253 to $261; 95 - 109 lbs., $250 to $257; 110 lbs. and over, $227 to $249.

Sheep sold $110 to $160.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $350; nannies, $50 to $150; kids: meat, $290 to $330; dairy, $250 to $380.

Blyth Hill Farms consigned 15 head. Seven lambs averaged 64 lbs. and sold for a price of $302. George Snell of Blyth, consigned five lambs which averaged 61 lbs. and sold for $300. Lyle Arnel of Watford,

consigned 11 head. Two boer kids averaged 58 lbs. and sold for a price of $380.

Top quality stocker steers under 400 lbs. sold $245.50 to $287; 400 499 lbs., $258.50 to $281; 500 - 599 lbs., $245 to $269; 600 - 699 lbs., $226 to $245; 700 - 799 lbs., $208 to $238; 800 - 899 lbs., $193 to $210; 900 - 999 lbs., $180 to $188.50; 1,000 lbs. and over, $173.75 to $179.50.

Top quality stocker heifers 300 399 lbs. sold $182.50 to $227; 400 499 lbs., $210 to $238; 500 - 599 lbs., $204 to $226.50; 600 - 699 lbs., $186.75 to $214; 700 - 799 lbs., $178.75 to $190; 800 - 899 lbs., $169 to $183; 900 lbs. and over, $163 to $179.25.

Levi Yoder of Lucknow, consigned nine head. Two charolais

steers averaged 853 lbs. and sold for an average price of $210. Laverne Brubacher of Listowel, consigned 49 steers. Fourteen charolais steers averaged 981 lbs. and sold for an average price of $183.50. Craig Simpson of Glencoe, consigned 15 charolais heifers. Six gold heifers averaged 941 lbs. and sold for an average price of $179.25.

Levi Yoder of Lucknow, consigned nine head. Two charolais steers averaged 853 lbs. and sold for an average price of $210. Laverne Brubacher of Listowel, consigned 49 steers. Fourteen charolais steers averaged 981 lbs. and sold for an average price of $183.50. Craig Simpson of Glencoe, consigned 15 charolais heifers. Six gold heifers averaged 941 lbs. and sold for an average price of $179.25.

Looking past COVID-19 in the agriculture industry

By Mark Nonkes The Rural Voice In the agriculture and food industries, leading researchers are making predictions of what we can expect to see and what might be in store for the future for our food supply after COVID-19 lock-down measures end.

Three University of Guelph professors who have expertise in various areas of the food system predict the lessons that might be learned from COVID-19 and what the agricultural sector might expect in the future. The Rural Voice compiled a list of seven of their ideas, and, in some cases, spoke with local people involved in growing and marketing our food to see if academic thought matched practical experience.

• Food Manufacturing: The manufacturing of food products will

change. In the last few months, slaughterhouses in Alberta and British Columbia have reported COVID-19 outbreaks among staff, forcing plants to close. On a smaller scale, in Ontario greenhouses growing vegetables, like one in Chatham where more than 50 employees were infected with COVID-19, operations were halted as well.

Inside these plants, where food is processed and packaged, workers pass items to one another, exposing themselves to the risk of COVID-19.

To combat the potential spread, Dr. Dana McCauley, a former chef and food entrepreneur who now works at the University of Guelph, says adjustments will be made in the short term by setting up “critical control points in a manufacturing factory setting because, where all of a sudden where gloves and a hair net were okay, I think now we’re going

Gardening delayed PEOPLE AROUND BELGRAVE

By Linda Campbell Call 357-2188

Belated birthday greetings to Kendra Robinson on May 23. Our grandson, Jackson turned two on May 20 and also Kevin VanCamp’s birthday was the same day.

Jackson’s mother Stacy’s birthday is on May 28 and my birthday is on May 29. Donna Shaw also shares the same day for her birthday. Ruth Gordon’s birthday is on June 2.

Happy birthday to all.

Last year I had my garden planted on May 8. Our weather has been so changeable with colder temperatures and frost that I just managed to get a start on the garden on May 23. The farmers are later too but some of their crops are in. The birds are in the midst of nesting.

Many of the people have gone to their cottage to open up and cut

grass. Some of the stores have opened up with health and safety measures in place. It is easier for some people to self isolate. With the COVID-19 virus everyone’s routines have changed. We all need to continue our efforts to protect each other. We will get through this.

NEWS FROM BELGRAVE

to be seeing a lot more face coverings and a lot more rigorous protocols around food safety.”

Looking further ahead, McCauley states that human contamination may be eliminated as food manufacturers move to more robotic methods of processing and packaging food.

• Livestock Markets: Livestock will not get to the market quickly.

Dr. Mike Von Massow, a professor in the department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Guelph, warns that rolling closures of meat processing plants due to COVID-19 outbreaks, mean farmers with livestock will have to hold onto their animals longer.

“Animal feeding will have to be slowed and farmers may have to be patient as they wait to sell things like beef or pork,” says Von Massow, who researches food waste and the food system.

Keith Currie, a Collingwood-area farmer and the president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), agrees with Von Massow.

Since COVID-19 closed businesses across the country, he’s heard from numerous farmers who are struggling to get their livestock to market.

“The time frame to hold back once market weight is reached is very short due to the nature of the animal,” Currie says. “Eventually the farm business will have to make a decision on what to do with the animals. De-population is not what anyone wants, but it may be the only option. And while beef producers may be in a better position to hold animals back longer, they too face the prospect of no income because cattle can’t get processed while increased feed costs are incurred.”

After the May 5 federal government’s announcement of a $252 million financial package for the Canadian beef and pork producers and the food processing sector, the OFA expressed thanks but reminded the government that it had joined agricultural organizations from across the country to request $2.6 billion in federal government support for the agri-food industry.

“Significant pressures remain for livestock farmers across the

province,” states Currie. “It’s a good starting point for the industry, but we know many commodities in Ontario are facing unprecedented and difficult situations.”

• Food Shortages Unlikely: Food shortages are unlikely. Despite the challenges of getting livestock to market, food shortages at grocery stores are unlikely for staple products.

Von Massow states that despite the challenges of some shortages of food products, “those were demandbased shortages and not supplybased shortages.”

The food system is catching up, Von Massow says.

“The irony in the time of shortages was we also heard of some dumping of milk in Canada and some plowing down of produce in Florida and other areas,” Von Massow states.

“These are short-term phenomena as the food system reallocates some of this supply to different customers and different processors.”

In some cases, food processors may need to change what they sell to meet customer demands in grocery stores.

“We drink more milk at home than we do in food service, and so we have to change a little bit from, say, cheese production to food milk production, and that doesn’t happen overnight. Many of these overages at the production level were a function of perishable products and no buffer storage inventory that caused us some grief. I think all of those things are going to go away in a matter of days not months and we will see a reallocation of a new normal.”

Von Massow explains that even with meat processing plants temporarily shutting down, it is unlikely that there will be meat shortages. North American trade of meat products, particularly beef, allows for processing plants from the United States to step into the gap that the temporary closure of a processing plant in Canada might create, Von Massow says.

• Local is Champion: Local will be championed (for a time). In times

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of economic shock, consumers often become more conscious about where their goods are purchased. There is an impulse, Von Massow says, to support local producers, retailers and entrepreneurs.

“One of the beauties of our food system is that we do have all of this choice. And I think there will be an inclination to find those local sources,” Von Massow says.

Even larger companies based in smaller communities are advised “to be a hometown hero first,” McCauley says. “There’s a lot of heart for helping our neighbours right now.”

“Entrepreneurs have to take that unique selling point of being a local supplier and champion of your area,” McCauley adds.

That’s an approach that Cowbell Brewing in Blyth took when the COVID-19 situation hit. The brewery started baking bread from spent grains that had been used in the brewing process and baked 50 loaves of bread, offering them for free to community members in Blyth and the surrounding area each day.

“We noticed that bread was in short supply in the area for the community and we wanted to contribute,” says Grant Sparling, the Chief Development Officer at Cowbell.

While Cowbell itself is reporting losses in alcohol sales during the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily due to the closure of restaurants and loss Continued on page 20

BRUSSELS LIVESTOCK Division of Gamble & Rogers Ltd.

UPCOMING SALES TUESDAYS 9:00 a.m.

Fed Cattle, Bulls & Cows

THURSDAYS

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

FRIDAYS

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

Call us 519-887-6461

PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

From the Minister’s Study

A ‘new normal’ is nothing new: Hovius

By Jason Hovius Brussels Community Bible Chapel The media and our governments have been conditioning us to prepare for a “new normal” in the wake of COVID-19, or at least until this virus has run its course. What exactly this is going to look like is a little unclear. It will probably involve more people working more from home and limited global travel.

Public social events may look and feel different.

I, for one, am already missing being part of a crowd. I find that there is nothing else like rubbing shoulders with a bunch of friends and strangers at an event. Maybe it has to do with sharing something in common with a bunch of other people. Part of it may be just the activity and mayhem that is inevitable when a bunch of unique individuals are all in one place.

Unfortunately, this kind of event may be a thing of the past for a long while.

It is imperative that we are flexible and accommodating as we enter this new normal that touches each one of our lives in some way. What is unique in today’s situation is that this is global in scale, unlike in generations past. However, the fact is that throughout history and even today people have had to experience their own new normals all the time.

The loss of a family member, a broken relationship, a debilitating injury or health dilemma, the loss of a job – all these things have forced people to accept a new way of life.

All the talk about this “new normal” has made me think about people in the Bible that experienced new normals in their lives.

Sometimes, life just got in the way and they were forced into change.

Other times, it began with an encounter with God and a step of faith and obedience. It makes for a lot of exciting reading in the Bible.

I’m glad Abraham didn’t stick around his hometown in Ur, and that Moses didn’t choose the easy path of luxury in the Pharaoh’s palace.

It’s hard to fathom the lifechanging degree of the “new normal” experienced by some workaday young men written about in the New Testament. We don’t know a lot about their past lives, but it seems as if they were ordinary and uneducated. We only know the occupations of five of them before they met Jesus. Levi, also called Matthew, was a tax collector and generally despised by many of his countrymen. Simon (later called Peter), Andrew, James and John

worked together in a fishing business.

One day, after a particularly discouraging night of fishing, Simon heard Jesus speaking and witnessed his authority over the fish in the Sea of Galilee that he could not seem to catch. He recognized the darkness of his sinful self as he stood next to the light of the world. It didn’t take long before he, and 11 other men, were summoned by Jesus to leave their day jobs and became his followers (basically a new 24/7 occupation).

This was their new normal for at least the next three years.

Just when it seemed inevitable that Jesus would be crowned king of Israel, these disciples experienced another disruption. Jesus was killed at the hands of both Jews and Gentiles by the will of God the Father for crimes that he didn’t commit. The world was turned upside down for these 12 men and the other mostly unnamed disciples of Jesus. Then they heard of and eventually witnessed proof of Jesus’ resurrection, and they again had to settle into a new normal of fulfilling Jesus’ mission without his physical presence beside them.

The book of Acts tells us about radical change in these simple men.

Still unschooled, but filled with confidence and authority because of what they knew to be true. In fact, for many of them the new normal involved suffering and eventual martyrdom for simply preaching the message of Jesus Christ.

Unfortunately, facing martyrdom is a normal part of life for many Christians around the globe today.

Chuck Colson famously wrote in his “Breakpoint” commentary, “Men

will give their lives for something they believe to be true – they will never give their lives for something they know to be false.”

Despite the suffering, you can’t help but notice the joy of the early Christians through it all. Besides joy, prayer, meeting together, eating together and sharing things became a normal part of their lives. They experienced a new normal, and it was genuine and meaningful, and outsiders saw it and were amazed.

There are probably days in your life that you are open to a new normal. A better normal. Where do you start?

Just like Jesus called his disciples, Jesus bids everyone to follow him and to become his disciples. Do you think you don’t need Jesus? Then you are not ready to follow him. Do you think you can handle eternity on your own principles and morality?

Then you are not ready to become Jesus’ follower.

“I’m ready to meet God because I have lived a good and civic-minded life.” This is not an uncommon argument. Someone I know once thought he was a decent-enough guy

Getting Married?

Announce your upcoming wedding in

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

Brussels Mennonite Fellowship All of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.

(1 Peter 3:8) BMF Mission = our church exists to GROW in the teachings of Jesus to LIVE by His example, and to CONNECT people to Him

Worship Service: 10:00 am Coffee Time: 11:15 am

250 Princess St., Brussels • 519-887-6388 • Pastor Ken Gazley

Church Services are cancelled until further notice Video sermons available on YouTube by searching “Blyth Christian Reformed Church”

BLYTH CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Evangelical Missionary Church

See homepage for LIVESTREAM Sundays 10:30 a.m.

Our 40th ANNIVERSARY SUNDAY June 7 Pastor Ernest Dow, “Partnership, Preciousness, Purpose in the Faith” (Php. 1:3-18) (building closed due to COVID; check out our midweek virtual LifeGroups!) ** Let us know how we can be praying for you / practical needs **

huronchapel.com huronchapelkids.com huronchapelyouth.com 119 John’s Ave., Auburn 519-526-1131

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

MELVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH BRUSSELS Search on YouTube for "St. Andrew's and Melville Sermon" for a new virtual worship every Sunday morning.

Stay safe and healthy!

Brussels Soup and More 2 is cancelled until further notice.

519-357-5273

in God’s sight until someone asked him, “How good is good enough for God?” Jesus, sent by God to redeem man, said, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one that He sent.”

(John 6:29) This is where it started for Simon Peter in that boat when he understood who Jesus was, and this is where it has started for many people of all generations and social classes. Doctors and lawyers and factory workers and beggars all around the world are equal in this one thing: that many of them have believed God’s word by faith. The Bible says that everyone who has believing faith in Christ is a new creation. “The old has gone, the new has come!” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Yes, the exclamation mark is in my Bible too.

Welcome Your New Arrival

The Citizen

in

Call or email to book your ad today 519-523-4792 info@northhuron.on.ca

BRUSSELS

United Church Until we are able to gather for worship take the opportunity to join “Forest Hill United Church” on YouTube this Sunday.

As we live in these very unusual times may your faith sustain you, obvious joy surround you and hope radiate all around you.

The Regional Ministry of Hope See our Facebook page 10:30 a.m. on Sundays for a live broadcast of our service.

All Anglican Churches are closed for public worship until further notice.

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

Trinity

St. John’s

BLYTH

BRUSSELS

9:00 am

12 noon

St. Paul’s Trinity

WINGHAM

COME WORSHIP WITH US!

10:30 am

Blyth United Church Due to the COVID-19 Virus the church building is closed.

Please join Rev. Gary Clark on YouTube “Forest Hill United Church Kitchener” for the Sunday Service Facebook: Blyth and Brussels United Churches blythunited@tcc.on.ca ~ 519-523-4224

THE CATHOLIC PARISHES OF NORTH HURON AND NORTH PERTH

OUR SUNDAY LITURGIES ARE

CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE

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

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

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

1025 Wallace Avenue N.

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 15.

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

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

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

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

Citizen-ToCitizen

“SWAP SHOP” ad “One person’s junk is another’s treasure”

Let us help you turn that junk into $$ ➨ Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster! ➨ The Citizen reserves the right to limit the number of items or ads per person.

Call 519-523-4792 or email: info@northhuron.on.ca FOR SALE – 13 T-Bar fence posts, $50; chainsaw grinder with chain breaker and splicer, $100; also assorted used bars and chain available for best offer. Call 519887-9615.

23-3 ---------------------------------------FOR SALE – jogging stroller, $50 o.b.o.; small white chest with four drawers, ideal for toys or toddler clothes, $10 o.b.o. 519357-2768.

23-3 ---------------------------------------WANTED – old large cattle water troughs for vegetable gardens. 519-887-9137.

22-3

Card of thanks In memoriam CAMPBELL. Thank you to the citizens of Brussels, the fire department and the ambulance services who came to my rescue at the CIBC Bank in Brussels on May 4. – Margaret Campbell. 23-1p -------------------------------------------KELLINGTON/THOMAS. Thanks to everyone for the flowers, cards, food, calls, visits and kind words; for the support from those who participated in the drive-by visitation; for the Guards of Honour by the Brussels Lions Club and the Brussels Legion; Pastor Sandra Cable for officiating the beautiful graveside service; MPP Lisa Thompson for the eulogy; Terri Gray for catering; Rose for helping organize; Stephanie for hosting, all who travelled; Zoey and Thomas at Riverside Funeral home for your care and compassion with the arrangements; Kathy and Jackie for providing family accommodation and floral, Jim, Lois, Kathy, Perry and Pete for the home help. Bob was indeed a great guy who will be deeply missed by family and community. Bob, wherever you are, Billie sleeps in your chair and we have increased the home security.

Family and community support us well and we will find ways to be okay. Thanks for the joy and the journey. – From the Marguerite Thomas family and the Kellington family.

23-1

Coming events

McCLURE. In memory of Ferne McClure who passed away June 4, 2019.

There’s a corner in our hearts, You visit every day, It gives us this warm feeling, That you’re never far away.

– Missed by Clayton, Joanne, Bryan, Sharlene and families.

23-1 -------------------------------------------NETHERY. In loving memory of Elizabeth G. Nethery, also known as Betty or Betty Boop, passed away 21 years ago December 6, 1999.

The sun still shines but not as bright, The flowers don’t smell the same, My heart still aches with the pain.

They tell me that the pain will ease, How I pray that day will come, ’Till then please know I love you Mom, One day your son is coming home.

– Love as always, your second son Mark.

23-1

Services FAXING SERVICE is suspended.

Will resume when COVID-19 crisis is over. The Citizen. tfn --------------------------------------------

519.335.3581

Blyth BIA in search of service group rep.

By Denny Scott The Citizen

Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) Chair David Sparling says the Huron County Economic Development department is working on Blyth being better identified through online services.

Sparling pointed out that Blyth and North Huron are problematic locations through services like Google and Facebook. Google Maps, for example, identifies Blyth as being part of Walton while automatic geotagging of Facebook posts can often link to North Huron, New York instead of North Huron, Ontario.

Wonky Frog Owner Cat O’Donnell agreed, saying the North Huron, New York issue became apparent during the International Plowing Match hosted in Walton in 2017 when many geotags were incorrectly identified. *** The BIA is still seeking a local Royal Canadian Legion or Blyth Lions Club member to sit on the board.

BIA Chair David Sparling reported the individual, who would represent both service groups, needs to be figured out soon.

John Stewart, who was making a

report on behalf of the Lions Club, said he believed there would be a representative at the next meeting based on his discussions with a member of the Legion.

A decision on new representation could be made at a future BIA meeting. *** BIA Chair David Sparling said he had received comments from the public about the influx of golf carts being driven by children in the community as well as the absence of flowers on the main street.

While no comments were made to the former issue, North Huron Councillor Kevin Falconer explained the latter was caused primarily by layoffs the municipality had made due to COVID-19. *** The BIA changed the way it runs its meeting to be in accordance with North Huron’s bylaws.

Chair David Sparling explained, previously, the BIA’s agendas didn’t necessarily fit the municipality’s bylaws, with things happening slightly out of order.

Starting with the group’s May 28 meeting, a new agenda format was adopted to remedy the issue, including moving things like guest speakers to earlier in the meeting.

DRIVE-BY BRIDAL SHOWER for Danielle Ducharme (fiancée of Chris Jutzi) on Sunday, June 28 – 2 to 4 p.m. at the end of Frederick Street, Brussels. Gift registries are: www.myregistry.com, Kitchen Cupboard and Icebox, Listowel and Tupperware with Chelsey Reinink (chelseyscott65@gmail.com).

23,25,26

Help wanted KSE INC. Kurtis Smith Excavating Inc.

is currently looking to fill positions for

Crew Foremen Pipe Layers & Labourers for sewer and watermain installations.

Experience in pipe work & road reconstruction is an asset.

Also Equipment Operators Excavator, Dozer, Compact Track Loader, Dump Trucks and Mini Excavator Experience preferred but will train the right person.

AZ licence an asset but not required.

Must have own transportation to our shop in Brussels. Students welcome to apply.

WE OFFER COMPETITIVE WAGES, BENEFITS AND GROUP RRSP PLAN. PLEASE SUBMIT RÉSUMÉ by fax 519-887-8856 or email to ksexc@hotmail.com or call the office 519-887-8855 and ask for Kurtis.

Coming together Three local service clubs and one local business all came together to fund a new digital sign for Brussels. The sign has since been ordered and installed by Artech Signs in Seaforth. Here, Cole McLean, left, president of the Brussels Optimist Club, presented Bob Mutter of the Brussels Community Development Trust with a cheque for $500 to go towards the sign. Also contributing were the Brussels Legion, which kicked in $1,000, the Brussels Pharmacy, which donated $500, and the Brussels Lions Club, which donated $3,000. To have your community event displayed on the sign, e-mail thebrusselssign@gmail.com or e-mail John Lowe at jlowe@huroneast.com or Deb Seili at jdhfs@ezlink.ca. (Photo submitted)

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

www.huroncitizen.ca

PAGE 16. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

BIA website approved

Tending the herd Eight-year-old Jack Nonkes is seen here tending to his family’s beef herd just west of Blyth.

While the COVID-19 pandemic may have stopped many aspects of life in their tracks, the world of agriculture continues to turn with the seasons and to ensure a steady supply of food for Canadians during this difficult time. (Mark Nonkes photo)

The Blyth Business Improvement Area’s (BIA) executive has approved the final version of the group’s website after years of working towards a new online presence.

During the group’s May 28 Zoom meeting, Chair David Sparling said the final parts of missing information had been added and blythnow.ca is now fully functional.

“Some of the information that was there wasn’t necessarily accurate and other information was missing,” he said.

Sparling pointed to the fact that a map on the former website, even with added locations like points of interest, had fewer “dots” than businesses in the BIA. Now, with approximately 70 points of interest on the map, every member business was represented.

“You can see every business with a phone number or website,” he said.

“Businesses were welcomed to submit their own images, and we’re reaching out to those who haven’t.

We’ve got pretty much all of our members with some level of information.”

He explained Chris Johnston, the contractor who was putting together the website, had populated information on businesses from websites where it was missing before.

“It’s nice to have it done,” Sparling said, adding Johnston manually moved pins to make sure the map was truly reflective of the businesses’ locations.

As a result of another discussion, the BIA decided Johnston’s information should be codified and distributed to the BIA membership so each member, especially new members, would know who owned each store and how to get in touch with them.

For more information or to see the new site, visit blythnow.ca.

Pollard Drain costs now reduced PEOPLE AROUND LONDESBORO

By BRENDA RADFORD Call 523-4296

A former Londesborough resident was feted with a drive-by birthday celebration on May 26. Alma Finnigan, formerly Tyndall, turned 99 that day and family and friends marked the day with a window celebration at Huronview Home for the Aged. Happy belated birthday from the village, Alma!

Paul MacIntyre of Burnside Associates of Stratford contacted me last week to bring updates on the widening/excavation of the Pollard Drain. He wished persons to know that in consultation with the municipal council, the cost of the project has been reduced about $130,000. Consequently, assessments have been revised. However he reiterated that property owners

who will benefit the most will still be assessed the most.

A major cost for this work was always the hauling away of excavated material. Regulations from the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority do not allow those materials to be left on the flood plain. Actually that makes sense, because in a heavy rain some of those materials might find their way back into the drain. Also, dropping it along the drain cuts back on the acreage of affected farms. The municipality has decided to provide manpower and trucks to move the excavated material and store it for use by the municipality in the future.

The cost of the project has also been reduced by changing the original design. They will shorten the overall length of the work and start it just downstream of the school property. I guess that means they won’t spend as much time on our farm.

Consultations with Maitland Valley Conservation Authority and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans have gone well. The municipal council has received the

draft report and will call a meeting of affected property owners to consider the report once the physical distancing regulations relax.

However Paul suggested any property owner affected is welcome to contact him to discuss the project at 1-800-265-9662.

One thing this isolation has done is get people thinking “outside of the box”. Many are developing new hobbies/interests, finding creative ways to fill the hours and keep households happy.

Many years ago, Robert Probst invented the office cubicle. It was conceived to give office workers independence and increase productivity, but it soon became a symbol of confinement and drudgery. Enter the pandemic and many of those same office workers are working from home and, in many cases, finding productivity increasing but, of course, feeling isolated from co-workers.

In recent weeks, many companies have stated that they will be shifting permanently to remote working.

There has been much chatter in recent years about the use of electronics destroying people’s

Letter to the Editor 60th anniversary approaching THE EDITOR, I have just read Brock Vodden’s recent account regarding the success of Blyth in the May 21, 2020 edition of The Citizen. It is very well written, historically accurate, and outlines most of the major events in the “modernization” of Blyth.

However, as usual in every reporting, the foundation of The Old Mill is never mentioned.

I, Glenyce Snell, founded The Old Mill after graduating from the University of Western Ontario in 1960. Even against family protests quoting, “Nobody will come to Blyth. I will have nothing to do with it!” I persisted in opening the first factory outlet store in this area. As the signature logo, I chose “Glen Laine”, Glen from my name and laine (French for wool), as I was a French teacher. Amazed by the popularity of our factory outlet, a festival theatre in the town hall was

encouraged and led to its foundation a few years later.

In 1971, circumstances led Richard and me to build a larger outlet south of Blyth. The London Free Press was especially interested in our new facility, its country location, interesting architecture and amazing stock (of leather and wool).

After a one-line quote in this article, the following Sunday we were flooded with customers. When Richard and I arrived to open the The Old Mill, we were amazed.

Highway 4 was lined with hundreds of cars on both sides of the hill down to and around the corner. Our large parking lots and front lawns were full. I was pushed aside as the crowds entered the store. Richard rushed to telephone staff recruits.

That was a day to remember in our lifetime. This is truly the beginning of Blyth’s recent fortunes. I am saddened that this event has never

been recorded in history regarding the success of Blyth.

The Old Mill is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Over these years many thousands have driven to The Old Mill, customers from all over Canada, North America as well as the U.K. and Europe. (Yes, all those colourful licence plates). Many customers who, as teenagers visited with family years ago, still return to our destination along with their families.

Our guest book records many thousands of names and wonderful comments on their experience. New customers are truly amazed! And yes, they visit other stores in Blyth and enjoy a stop at Blyth’s restaurants and arrange to attend the Blyth Festival theatre.

We have accomplished this on our own. I ask, how can this phenomenon be missed for 60 years?

Yours truly, Glenyce Snell.

social skills. But working from home will reduce spending on clothing, meals, gas, etc. and probably make driving in the city less hectic. And what will real estate do with all those office towers? One article I read suggested many will become condominiums/ apartments which, in the city, are needed. Out of the box for some and into it for others.

Creative thinking.

Stay well! Stay isolated! Stay sane!

NEWS FROM LONDESBORO

Citizen-To-Citizen “SWAP SHOP” ad “One person’s junk is another’s treasure”

Let us help you turn that junk into $$ ➨ Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster! ➨ The Citizen reserves the right to limit the number of items or ads per person.

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

THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 17.

Blowin’ in the wind Cheryl Peach M.Ed., B.Ed Researchers have found that rising water temperatures are kicking up more powerful winds on Lake Superior, with a range of implications affecting currents, biological cycles, pollution and ecosystems on the world’s largest lake and its smaller Great Lakes siblings, including Lake Huron.

These higher winds will only add to the challenges being experienced due to high lake levels in 2019/2020 on Lake Huron.

A wide temperature differential between water and air makes for a

more stable atmosphere with calmer winds over the relatively cold water.

However, as warming water closes the gap, as in the case of the Great Lakes, the atmosphere gets more turbulent.

“You get more powerful winds,” according to Professor Ankur Desai from the University of Wisconsin.

“We’ve seen a five per cent increase per decade in average wind speed on Lake Superior since 1985.”

One of the factors influencing higher water temperatures has been less winter ice cover. Reflective ice

lessens the amount of solar radiation on the lake. Once the final ice-melt has occurred, however, the large lakes turn into dark surfaces that absorb solar radiation to the maximum of any natural surface.

This absorbed solar radiation is the primary agent that warms the lake.

The relative timing of final ice melt to the summer solstice — the season when the sun provides most radiation — is therefore a key determinant of the degree of warming of lake waters (Rouse, 2009).

A result of longer periods of higher surface water temperatures is a weakening of the water–air temperature gradient. This has the effect of destabilizing the atmosphere above the lake, enabling faster wind speeds across the lake surface (Cruce, T., & Yurkovich, E., 2011).

There are some interesting implications for higher wind speeds off the lake, including movement of airborne pollutants to the shore, increased lake-effect streamers in winter, potentially stronger alongshore currents, higher wave action during high water levels, and wind movement of sand on beaches and dunes.

Increased sand movement and dune erosion could present problems to communities that do not have well managed dune systems in place.

Obituaries

BRYON GEORGE BLACK February 18, 1948 - May 26, 2020 Bryon George Black passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. He was in his 73rd year.

Bryon was the beloved husband of Jean (Drennan) Black for 50 years and the loving father of Bradley (Trish) Black, Tracy (Neil) Rodger, and Brent (Vicky) Black. Bryon was the cherished grandfather of Connor, Dylan, Dalton, Colton, Michaela, Branson, Rachel, and eagerly awaited twins. Bryon was the dear brother and brother-in-law of Doreen (the late Ralph) Matthews, Goderich; the late Lawrence (Joyce) Black, Exeter; Paul (Connie) Black, Carlow; Gordon (Cathy) Drennan, West Wawanosh; Marlene (the late Doug) MacDonald, Blyth; Eric (Dianne) Drennan, Nile; Allan (Susan) Drennan, Ashfield; Leroy (Annette) Drennan, Lucknow; Ann (Larry) Johnston, Nile; Donna (Stuart) Alton, Belfast; Brian Drennan, Lucknow and Debbie (Michael) Courtney, Amberley.

Bryon will be lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews. He

was predeceased by his parents Victor and Grace Black, parents-in-law Henry and Bernice Drennan.

Born Feb. 18, 1948 at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital, Bryon was the third child of Victor and Grace. He was raised on the 2nd concession of Ashfield Township.

He attended the University of Guelph and received a diploma in agriculture. He married Jean (Drennan) on June 21, 1969 and they purchased their farm outside of Goderich in 1972. He started his career as a carpenter at Bruce Power and became a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, Local 2222 in Goderich for 49 years. He later served as a senior representative for 34 years until his retirement in 2009.

His greatest enjoyment in life was watching his grandchildren play hockey and show cattle. He was a long-standing co-chair of the Lucknow 4-H Invitational Show. He loved to watch the kids grow and succeed.

Throughout his life, he and Jean enjoyed travelling all over North America with family and friends. In his farming career he had various livestock, but his passion had been the Limousin breed for the last 25 years. He loved working the land, and plowing was his secret passion.

He was well known for his speechwriting abilities and his witty sense of humour. He was asked to be the master of ceremonies at many events and left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

A celebration of Bryon’s life will be held in the future when everyone can gather and share stories in remembrance of such a great man.

Donations to the Alexandra

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Marine and General Hospital or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.

DOUGLAS GERRY LOGAN It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that the Logan family announce the death of Douglas Logan, at home with his wife by his side, on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. He was 79.

Doug was the beloved husband of Carolyn Logan (née Harvey) and will be lovingly remembered by his

son Scott, his wife Lynne and cherished by his grandsons James and Connor.

Doug was the dear older brother of Dave, Whitehorse, Yukon Territories; Jack and his wife Carol, Devon, Alberta and Jim (predeceased).

Doug is affectionately remembered by his many relatives and friends and will be missed by those whose lives he touched.

Doug was proud to have grown up in Brussels and shared many stories of life in “Ontario’s Prettiest Village”. He kept in touch with his hometown through his weekly reading of The Citizen.

Due to current restrictions, there will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations would be greatly appreciated to the William Osler Health System Foundation (Brampton Civic Hospital) or to the charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences and information may be found at www.andrewscommunityfuneral centre.com

This is particularly important for many of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay’s dune systems, because they are made up of finite sand deposits where no new source of sand is present should the existing sands get eroded away. Erosion of beaches and dunes can be caused, or made worse, by several factors, including high impact recreational activities, development pressure and poorly designed beach access.

Through Green Ribbon Champions, the Coastal Centre has been working with several municipalities and community groups to establish measures that will help minimize beach and dune erosion, which will become increasingly relevant under a higher wind regime. As researchers learn more about the changes affecting our region, coastal communities will need to consider the implications and adapt where necessary. Adapting to changing conditions experienced along Lake Huron is the ‘new normal’ and required by all coastal communities that strive to be resilient to these changing climatic conditions. [original article was authored by Geoff Peach January 2012, and has been updated by Coastal Centre Staff - Pat Donnelly, and Cheryl Peach]

STRATFORD MEMORIALS Creating Memories in Stone for Over 95 years

We are now open but by appointment only and following government recommended protocols to ensure the safety of all visitors and our staff. Please call or email us to set up an appointment.

519-524-8457 email: mfalconer@stratfordmemorials.com

Goderich/Clinton Michael Falconer Memorial Counsellor www.stratfordmemorials.com

PAGE 18. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

Smith spearheads community honey project

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen Angela Smith, Central Huron’s community improvement coordinator, is working to bring many facets of the community together for a local honey-producing project.

Smith began looking for a way to engage various levels of the community nearly a year and a half ago and now she’s compiled something that will bring together public school and high school students with agricultural professionals. The project has already caught the attention of the University of Guelph and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Both Smith and Central Huron Deputy-Mayor Dave Jewitt attended a provincial economic development conference two winters ago and it was there that the seed for the project was planted. She heard about a community food project that brought students together with

seniors to pass down skills and involve local students in a community-oriented social enterprise.

She kept that project in the back of her mind, but knew it would have to be adapted to a rural community like Central Huron. The project that inspired her was rolled out in a large urban centre, she said, with a team of economic development professionals seeing it through. As a one-person department in a much smaller community, Smith knew she’d have to alter the program and do more with less if she wanted to get anything off the ground.

Then, she had a conversation with representatives of Bayfield Berry Farm about how the business rents and deploys bees to pollinate at the farm every year and Smith said she saw everything fall into place.

She began laying the groundwork and connecting with Clinton’s high schools, as well as some seniors with knowledge of beekeeping and she had a clear path forward. Smith

hoped to engage students from various career paths at Central Huron Secondary School, as well as some from St. Anne’s Catholic Secondary School, to bring the project to life. First, she would need hospitality students to help with the bees and extracting the honey. Then she hoped to bring in those interested in graphic design to help with logos and labels, followed by students with a marketing acumen to help get the word out.

However, just as Smith thought the program was ready to hit the ground running, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and she was forced to rethink the project and adapt various aspects of it to fit the “new normal” in Ontario.

The seniors who had pledged to be involved had to bow out for health reasons, but Smith has found some local beekeeping experts who have volunteered to help, including Leanne Kavanaugh of Shop Bike Coffee Roasters in Bayfield.

She then expanded the program to

include students from Clinton Public School. Accustomed to raising funds through selling candy, meat or magazine subscriptions, the students’ efforts could easily be adapted and they could sell the honey that would eventually be created through the project, Smith said. She has also engaged a handful of university students to take the lead on the finer, technical points of the project. This came after she heard that, due to so many university students losing their summer jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a grant available for university students who volunteered in their community. If they took on a volunteer job over the summer, they could earn up to $5,000 towards their tuition, bringing university and college students to the program.

Her hope is that it will continue to expand with more and more bees fulfilling the project’s potential. She also said that if students prove to be greatly interested in the honey production, they could bring home

their equipment and some of the bees and work to start their own athome business.

Smith says that while the project’s schedule has been pushed back a bit as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, she’s still hoping it can start soon with a honey harvest later this year in time for it to be available when the holidays roll around. Her hope is that the honey will be available by Christmas (though she anticipates the first year will yield a small harvest) and that students will be able to create alternative products with the beeswax, like candles and personal care products, to fill a gift basket full of products straight from the bees.

As the project has continued to develop, it has attracted the attention of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, which hopes to turn Smith’s project into a replicable curriculum that could be deployed in rural high schools throughout Continued on page 20

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THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020. PAGE 19.

Drayton Entertainment cancels summer season Amidst continued concerns regarding the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and in keeping with physical distancing recommendations, Drayton Entertainment has cancelled its entire summer season on both the main stage and the newly-named South Huron Stage (formerly Playhouse II) at the Huron Country Playhouse in Grand Bend.

The wellness of patrons, staff, artists, volunteers and the community continues to be of paramount importance for the not-

for-profit charitable arts organization, which has already cancelled a number of productions at its seven stages across the province.

The 49th season in Grand Bend was to have opened in June with Fiddler on the Loose (June 10 to June 27), followed by 42nd Street (July 2 to July 18), Sleeping Beauty: The Panto (July 2 to July 18), and The Dixie Swim Club (July 22 to Aug 8); these four productions were cancelled earlier this spring. New cancellations include the Broadway

musicals Rock of Ages (July 22 to Aug 15), Kinky Boots (Aug 19 to Sept 5), and the musical memoir A Closer Walk with Patsy Cline (Aug 19 to Sept 5). The Youth Education program production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. (Aug 11 to Aug 15) is also cancelled along with the youth musical theatre program one-week camp (July 13 to July 17).

“It’s sad and disappointing, but we know this is the right decision.

Health and safety must come first,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic

BIA aims to capitalize on RVs

By Denny Scott The Citizen The Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) wants to capitalize on what Chair David Sparling is calling, “The Year of the RV”.

Sparling, during the BIA’s May 28 meeting, held virtually, explained his research had indicated, at least south of the Canada-U.S. border, there had been an explosion in the rentals of recreational vehicles (RVs) like motorhomes and camping trailers. His research indicated numbers as high as a 650 per cent increase, likely related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated control measures.

“As a business association, this could help us,” he said. “When [renowned magazine] Car and Driver starts talking about RV sales, you know something big is going on.”

Sparling said the BIA is blessed to have a large campground, but said there is a question about how it could be capitalized on this year and next year specifically as the trend is expected to continue.

He said a Kampgrounds of America (KOA) study had found that, in Canada, 42 per cent of campers like to vacation within 150 kilometres of their home, 54 per cent of those who answered use a tent, while 21 per cent are in an RV of some sort.

“Kids matter a lot,” Sparling said,

pointing to the fact that 88 per cent of Canadian children are the driving factor behind their family camping, leading to an increase in camping for those between the ages of 25 and 44.

Sparling also said 48 per cent of Canadians book their campsites a week or less in advance, so Blyth needs to have events ready to go for people who do show up.

“Kids drive camping,” he said.

“Maybe there’s something we could do to make our campground more kid-friendly?”

Sparling said he spoke to North Huron to get a better understanding of the campground and found it costs the municipality $51,000 to run the site annually. The operating expenses are estimated at $67,000 while there is an income of $16,000.

With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the cancellation of events like the annual campout and jamboree of the Barn Dance Historical Society, 2020 will likely be an even more expensive year for the campground.

Sparling also said people are “panic-buying” bicycles as a way to use time off during the pandemic, and, with the Goderich-to-Guelph Rail Trail (G2G) running directly behind the campground, it could be a great benefit to the municipality, though he noted, this year, the G2G is undergoing significant maintenance.

Sparling said the campground has potential and, with ratepayers

BIA to host speaker Blyth Business Improvement Area (BIA) Chair David Sparling hopes to bring in a guest speaker to discuss policies for small- and mediumsized businesses in the COVID-19 era.

The seminar, which Sparling proposed during the BIA’s May 28 meeting, would build on the success of a presentation by Prof. Kersi Antia who, earlier this year, discussed marketing to millennials.

Sparling suggested bringing in Dr. Simon Parker, a professor of Entrepreneurship at the Ivey

Business School at the University of Western Ontario, to speak on the issue. Parker is an advisor to the Organisation for Economic CoOperation and Development, an international group that helps with the creation of policies and standards.

Sparling had already discussed the issue with Community Futures Huron in Brussels and proposed a two-hour presentation.

He hopes the BIA can set the event for later this month in case of a second wave of COVID-19 this fall.

Happy 40th Anniversary Alvin & Pam McLellan June 7th

With love from your family

benefitting from more use of it, the BIA should be looking at trying to improve it.

“Increased campground use equals lower costs and lower taxes,” he said. “For the businesses, more campers means more shoppers, and that’s what [the BIA] is all about.”

Sparling then welcomed Huron Pioneer Thresher and Hobby Association President Judy Sloan to speak to the issue. She said the group would love it if the campground was used more often.

Sparling mentioned the association had built up the campground for its annual reunion in September, which is cancelled this year, so if members of the association want to see it used more, everyone should want to see it used more.

Sparling had put the issue to North Huron Chief Administrative Officer Dwayne Evans and Director of Recreation and Services Vicky Luttenberger and asked about potential opportunities and was told they would like to see a drive for more use.

North Huron Councillor Kevin Falconer, the municipality’s representative on the BIA, said the best way to go forward would be to form a committee of council with the goal of increasing usage, that way the municipality would be deeply involved from the get-go.

Sparling agreed and asked who should be on the committee. After some discussion, Sparling drafted a list, including members of the G2G committee, North Huron staff, a council member, the Blyth Festival theatre, local service groups and members of the BIA. The BIA approved having Sparling pursue the creation of the committee of council with North Huron.

Director and CEO of Drayton Entertainment. “We’ve received many wonderful messages of support, which are so appreciated.

These may be uncertain times, but one thing we can be sure about is the innate power of arts and culture to bring us together. We’ll be back when the time is right, excited to share the magic of live theatre with the community once again.”

All Drayton Entertainment box offices are closed to in-person traffic but continue to operate remotely through phone and e-mail communication in a reduced capacity. Over the next several weeks, patrons who have purchased tickets for cancelled performances will be contacted by the box office to facilitate account credits or refunds.

Due to the volume of cancellations, Drayton Entertainment requests patience and co-operation as the team works to accommodate patron needs as operational capabilities permit.

Drayton Entertainment has also cancelled additional productions at its other various venues across Ontario.

The production cancellations do not follow a chronological time frame due to the company’s unique business model, which transfers select productions from one venue to another throughout the season calendar.

Cancellations are determined on a production by production basis and impact the playbill at each Drayton Entertainment venue differently.

At this time, 14 of the 18 productions in Drayton Entertainment’s 2020 season have been cancelled, along with any special concerts and rentals through Sept. 5.

The status of each season

production is outlined by the venue on the Drayton website.

Drayton Entertainment stages over 800 performances per year at its various venues, with paid attendance exceeding 250,000 annually, making it one of the country’s largest notfor-profit theatre festivals.

Economically, the Government of Ontario’s Tourism Regional Economic Impact Model (TREIM) estimates the organization’s economic impact on visitor spending at over $60 million annually, positively affecting multiple communities throughout Ontario, including Huron County. Drayton Entertainment also provides over 400 employment contracts annually to actors, musicians, designers and other creatives, making it one of the largest employers of professional artists in the country across all artistic disciplines.

These programming losses are significant for Canada’s arts and culture and tourism sectors.

Drayton Entertainment operates in accordance with advice from public health authorities and in compliance with directives from government agencies. The impact of the COVID19 pandemic is significant to all communities and industries. Live theatre involves large gatherings of people, and as such, Drayton Entertainment will continue to reassess its policies and procedures as they relate to future productions based on guidelines from designated Canadian public health authorities and government agencies.

Current information regarding coronavirus programming cancellations is posted on the Drayton Entertainment website at draytonentertainment.com.

Graduation David Sparling graduated with his Masters of Business Administration from the Ivey School of Business at Western University on May 22nd.

David was an Ivey Scholar (top 10% of his class).

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PAGE 20. THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020.

COVID-19 could lead to surge in local buying

Taking a closer look Mark Nonkes recently reviewed how the COVID-19 pandemic is impacting food systems, from livestock markets to the possibility of food shortages. (Mark Nonkes photo) Continued from page 13 of keg sales, Sparling says doing “the right thing” and addressing a community food need was important for the business.

Approaches like dedicating products for a community will build customer loyalty after the pandemic ends. However, Dr. Jess Haines, an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition at the University of Guelph, states that local entrepreneurs must remain priceconscious, as many family budgets will be restricted in the months to come. She warns that producers who sell at farmers’ markets should have competitive prices to align with grocery stores to maintain longer term engagement with customers.

• Kitchen Essentials: There will be a return to kitchen essentials.

“Everyone, a month ago, was talking about plant-based, plant-based, plant-based, and now everyone is talking about bread. So wow, what a shift in consumer interests,” says Dana McCauley.

When people’s income is insecure, there is a return to basics, McCauley

Province eyes CH project Continued from page 18 the province. She has also been in touch with the University of Guelph, which is home to the Honey Bee Research Centre. She has involved Paul Kelly, who is the research and apiary manager at the centre, which lends a high level of credibility to the program, Smith said, if it can attract the blessing of some of the top names in the sector.

Smith and her project volunteers were due to receive their first batch of bees earlier this week. Then, they would begin to learn the basics and lay the framework for the project moving forward.

As it continues to grow, Smith is looking for used beekeeping equipment, monetary donations or anyone with expertise willing to share. To get in touch, e-mail her at cic@centralhuron.com or call her at 519-476-5922.

says. “I’ve been hearing people call it the ‘Great Lockdown’, as a reference to the Great Depression.

There is going to be a massive economic ripple effect that will probably mean that consumers are going to be much more price sensitive than they were in the past.”

Coming out of this stay-home period, McCauley expects people will want to find affordable foods that will have broad appeal for their families, rather than specialty products.

• Online Shopping Grows: Online shopping from your neighbourhood business will be more commonplace.

Not only has online grocery shopping become popular in this pandemic period, many small food entrepreneurs have turned to online sales.

Until this, food retailing was primarily done in store, but COVID19 sparked a rapid escalation of online food shopping.

“I expect for some people the experience has been better than they were expecting and they won’t go back,” says Von Massow. “For others, they will go back to the grocery store.”

McCauley suggests more homebased food entrepreneurship could see a bump due to COVID-19.

People who use available digital platforms and online stores to sell their products will find a new customer base which has experience with using online platforms to purchase food products.

Utilizing an online storefront to sell vegetable produce is a strategy that Belgrave-area organic farmers Brian Wiley and Tamara McMullen of Firmly Rooted Farm are taking to reach new customers in the aftermath of the COVID-19 stayhome orders. With the closure of restaurants and farmers markets, where Wiley and McMullen normally sell their produce, an online storefront has been essential for their vegetables to continue to find a market.

“People are seeking us out because there seems to be more demand for local products,” Wiley says.

Wiley says there is more administrative work involved with setting up and running an online store to sell food products. He advises anyone considering moving business online to go with an online

company that has experience in food retailing and to talk to other small business owners who have taken the online approach before diving into online sales.

“Don’t try to figure it out by yourself during this time,” Wiley says.

• Cooking Skills: Cooking skills will become essential. With less income available for many coming out of COVID-19, restaurant sales are not likely to rebound to their previous state.

During the stay-home orders, families have had the time to cook their own meals more often.

“Now, we’re having to plan more.

Hopefully we’ll see people develop those skills and use those skills,” says McCauley. “Once you realize that making a stir fry is faster than waiting for Chinese food to arrive, you’ll look at it a little differently.”

The impact could be generational.

“So many people are getting into the kitchen with their children and I’m hopeful that kids are going to be more involved, even if families go back to being superscheduled,” says McCauley.

Yet, Jess Haines, an expert in

Applied Human Nutrition at the University of Guelph, says not everyone has the necessary skills and resources required to prepare healthy meals.

She hopes there is a realization coming out of this pandemic that more food education is required.

“Our society should be set up so that we ensure that when students graduate from high school, they have this very important skill of being able to prepare healthy meals for themselves,” Haines says.

Ensuring that students can develop food skills to develop healthy eating for life, even through pandemics, is something on which Haines says the government should take action.

Both The Citizen (huroncitizen.ca) and The Rural Voice (ruralvoice.ca) are available for free online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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