Springwater News

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Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

Location of my desk: 44.5864°N - 79.8659°W • Altitude: 224 meters!

4944 kms to Equator • 14,894 kms to South Pole • 5110 kms to North Pole

gers.com o R @ s w e N r e t gwa 22 2249 • Sprin

705 3

(705) 526-1344 x 275

ws.ca e N r e t a w g www.Sprin

Press Release

Customer # 0003684814 / Publication/Admail # 0040027838

Your Locally Owned Community Newspaper

130 Balm Beach Road West, Tiny, Ontario, L0L 2J0 P 705-526-4204 | F 705-526-2372 | www.tiny.ca

Edition 562 - Dec 12, 2019 Next Issue Dec 25 • Deadline is Fri. Dec 20

hip of Tiny au village TheCelebrates Township Noёl of Tiny Celebrates Noёl au Village and th lighting the 16 annual Treethe 16th Annual Tree Lighting

Open 7 Days a Week!

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

23 Queen St. W. Elmvale 705 322 2652 Shop Elmvale

Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General

The Simcoe County Quilters Guild held their regular monthly meeting at the Simcoe County And just like Museum on Thursday, November 28th at 1 pm. that, the holiday The guild began in January 1984 with 18 founding season is in full members. These women wanted to establish a swing! group that would promote quality in quilting On November and to also expand their skills. From that simple 23, 2019, the beginning, the guild now has 85 members.

Township of Tiny Their membership has a broad base of novice and Le Festival and experienced quilters, who enjoy working du Loup once in traditional and contemporary designs, using again joined forceither hand or machine applications. They study es to bring the community Noёl au Village and Tiny’s 16th Annual Tree Lighting a variety of techniques, both old and new, from Celebration. Between 600 and 700 residents and visitors attended Noёl au Village simple to challenging. They are always eager to kickedseason off their holiday in On Lafontaine. that, theand holiday is in fullseason swing!

November 23, hear speakers discuss current trends and new The event began at 3:00 p.m. with fun activities for the whole family, including techniques. and Le Festival du Loup festive once again joined forces to bring cookie decorating, beverages, holiday crafts and caroling.

130 Balm Beach Road West, Tiny, They Ontario, L0L 2J0members of our communities. th are also active ge and Tiny’s 16with Annual Lighting Pictures Santa Tree took place at theCelebration.

Parish Hall and each child received a ChristP 705-526-4204 | F 705-526-2372 | www.tiny.ca As a guild they have supported a number of worthy mas advent calendar and take-home photo. causes from Women and Children’s Crisis Centers, ents and visitors attended Noёl au Village and kicked off The Women’s Cooperative Art School hosted an Art Gallery at the Lafontaine lap robes for Seniors homes, Seasons Centre for Carol Duncan and her son ntaine. The event began Community Centre.at 3:00 p.m. with fun activities for the Grieving Children to our Cuddle Quilt program École Ste-Croix opened its doorsholiday toFor the many eager holiday shoppers with a Christimmediate release ookie decorating, festive beverages, crafts and that is run in conjunction with the various police mas Bazaar and Vendor Market. took place at the Parish Hall and each child received a and fire departments in Simcoe County.

Shoppers browsed products from local producers and suppliers, including Norwex, The Township While some of them only produce one or two and take-home Cooperative ArtSunflower School Épicure,photo.

BonnieThe Bee Women’s Honey, 31 Gift, Cedar Point Oil, Mon atelier of dan'Tiny Celebrates Noёl au village th pieces a years, others are constantly working on cave, Nature and Centre.

Wildlife Art, Carrie Pauzé Art, The perfect Bee bythe the Sea, 16 annual Tree lighting Lafontaine Community École Ste-Croix opened its Bite, and their creations.

All recognize the beauty of this and Purely The Bazaar also featured a French book sale. iday shoppers withSpoiled. a Christmas Bazaar and Vendor Market. art form and like to share their enthusiasm and Live musical performances expertise. from local producers suppliers, were provided and

by High Five, including Norwex, The first thing on the agenda for this meeting 31 Gift,Joel Cedar Point Sunflower Oil, Mon atelier dan' cave, Saunders, the École Stewas to recognize one of their members with the Children’s Choir and St. by the Sea, and Purely ie PauzéCroix Art, The perfect Bite, Bee Sovereign Medal for Volunteers issued by the Choir. atured a Patrick’s French Church book sale.

Governor General of Canada.

The event also featured a Carol Duncan started as their Community Christmas Market where local were provided

by High Five, Joel Saunders, the École SteOutreach Coordinator in September 2004. At vendors were selling homet. Patrick’s Church Choir. The event also featured a the celebration, a long list of the agencies that, made butter tarts and Tourtière, through Carol, are recipients of their lovely quilts al vendors were selling homemade Christmas trees, maple syrup, butter tarts and were named. Carol has delivered over 3,462 quilts hand-crafted iron art and maple syrup, hand-crafted ironmore. art and more. in her 15 years with the guild.

Carol also arranges two Outreach workshops a Date: November 27, 2019 year.

The award and her new lapel pin

Press Release

(Tiny, ontario) And just like that, the holiday season is in full swing!Items Onfor November 23, the Seniors Wish Foundation 2019, the Township of Tiny and Le Festival du Loup once again joined forces to bring the community Noёl au Village and Tiny’s 16th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration.

Between 600 and 700 residents and visitors attended Noёl au Village and kicked off their holiday season in Lafontaine. The event began at 3:00 p.m. with fun activities for the whole family, including cookie decorating, festive beverages, holiday crafts and Treating You Like Family Since 1983took place at the Parish Hall and each child received a caroling.

Pictures with Santa Christmas advent calendar and take-home photo. The Women’s Cooperative Art School Call for Professional Advice Carol is also hosted an Art Gallery at the Lafontaine the Community opened its for our guild. facilitator forCentre. gathering École gifts for Ste-Croix the Seniors Wish Foundation Barrie: 705-726-2551 705-326-5664 She with also started a kinder group of quilters sew at Gilda's Club in Barrie. doorsOrillia: to the many eager holiday shoppers a Christmas Bazaar andtoVendor Market.

Carol does this Shoppers browsed products from local producers androom suppliers, including Norwex, There was a full in attendance work always from the Colin Marshall info@wmib.ca Épicure, Bonnie Bee Honey, 31 Gift, Cedar Point Sunflower Oil, Mon atelier dan' cave, bottom of her heart, never, ever complains Nature and Wildlife Art, Carrie Pauzé Art, The perfect Bite, Bee by the Sea, and Purely about the time and Spoiled. The Bazaar also featured a French book sale. effort involved.

Automobile

Residential

Live musical performances were provided by High Five, Joel Saunders, the École SteBusiness Farm Recreational Croix Children’s Choir and St. Patrick’s Church Choir. The event also featured a Christmas Market where local vendors were selling homemade butter tarts and Tourtière, Christmas trees, maple syrup, hand-crafted iron art and more.

www.wmib.ca

Helen Goodeve, President of the Guild said, “We certainly appreciate Carol for all that she does for us as a guild, and also for our community.”

Everyone (contributors, advertisers, readers, staff) involved with the success of the Springwater News would like to wish “One and All” a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Page 2

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

Jordan Carson

Master Electrician

Springwater News

1087 Rainbow Valley Road Phelpston, ON L0L 2K0

9 Glenview Avenue Elmvale ON L0L 1P0

Publisher/Editor/Owner: Michael and Margaret Ann Jacobs

jordan@carsonelectric.net 705.717.8767 ECRA/ESA # 7011405

Editor’s Musings

The next deadline is Friday, December 20th or Sunday the 22nd.

I go to press Monday afternoon (December 23rd) but with holidays, the paper does not end up in my hands until Friday, December 27th On Friday, December 27th, I’ll get it to the 13 post office drops.

It won’t be in your box until Monday, December 30th.

Merry Christmas If you have ever been to a meeting at the Council Chambers for Springwater Township, and if there were very many people in attendance, you probably strained to hear what was being said but did you notice that when there were only a few people there, it was sort of okay.

I can remember helping a fellow set up for a crowd of people. I commented that it seemed pretty loud to me. He said, that the bigger the crowd, the more people to absorb the noise. That night, I wondered if he had gone and turned the volume down - which he hadn’t.

There are eight mics at the front for the council and clerk.

There are two at the table where you sit and address the council and there are five (I think) at the side table where the staff sits. Each time anyone speaks, they press a button and then their microphone is live.

It is obvious, some members know of it’s short comings and if you sit there and watch Councillor George Gabral speak into it, you will see him rather contorted to reach the mic, but we can all hear him anytime he speaks.

As you watch each have a say, you can see that a couple sit back (a fair distance from the pickup) and speak but they may as well not have their mic turned on.

One can sit there and wonder if the design was a mistake or on purpose. Where they installed to be out of the way and when you spoke, it was planned that the person would come forward to be heard? Or were they installed by mistake, that far away from each speaker?

What I would recommend is a big meter being hung someplace over the crowd, something the size of a clock so that when the councillors speak, the needle registering their voice would let them know they are being heard.

Whatever, I would suggest some members of Springwater Council take a lesson on how to use the mics so they can be heard.

MIDHURST PHARMACY

Tel: 705 322-2249 • Cell: 705 321-BOLD (2653) e-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com www.springwaternews.ca

Orillia operates 27 playgrounds at its 36 parks; they each have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) requires that, among other things, playgrounds must be accessible by 2020. Under AODA, the surface of the playground must be accessible; sand is no longer acceptable. Rather, there are two options: a rubberized surface or a less expensive engineered wood fibre.

In addition, there must be “accessible connecting pathways which are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, they must include handrails and ramps and should include features such as adaptive swings, interactive games, elevated sandboxes etc.

But the rising cost of new playgrounds and related accessibility demands, which carry a significant price tag, did not bring smiles to the faces of city politicians during budget deliberations. Councillors approved spending $240,000 in 2020 to replace playgrounds at Victoria Park and West Ridge Park. But that is a drop in the bucket compared to what needs to be done - and soon.

I wonder what our local municipalities are thinking.

In China, they have played with DNA from a pig and a monkey and two chimera pigs were born but albeit, both died within a week of birth (more research needed but probably from the IVF process).

What is a chimera (pig) - In Greek mythology, it is described as a fire-breathing female monster with a lion’s head, a goat’s body, and a serpent’s tail.

In biology, it is an organism containing a mixture of genetically different tissues, formed by processes such as fusion of early embryos, grafting, or mutation.

So in this case, the baby animals had genetic material from a cynomolgus monkey (a primate used in various research activities, from AIDS vaccine development to behaviour al sciences) in their heart, liver, spleen, lung and skin.

It seems a little scary for us to manipulate life functions as there is no idea what might result from such experiments. There is also an ethical side to the science which might make you shudder a little but when you read that three people a day in the UN and 12 people a day in United States die waiting for replacement organs, and that is the basis for this research, one hesitates to criticize.

Suppose you need a heart, or a liver, or a kidney and scientist have bred animals to grow that same organ and it can be safely transplanted into humans, do you sort of agree but still shudder a little.

Down the road.....

Don Cherry is right!

There may not be a law to wear a poppy, but anyone can show respect. I was sorry to see all the snowflakes suggesting he had done something wrong, and even more disappointed when his sidekick and the producers apologized.

We have a Prime Minister that I understand did not even show up for a memorial service anywhere in Canada, a PM who said the service men were asking for too much when their pensions after 25 years is only 50% and a figure from the past few days says we have 40,000 homeless, some of them with PTSD ...and people and the news broadcasters pick on Don Cherry who has nothing but empathy for those who served.

Wishing you and yours…

A Healthy and Happy 2020!

From all of us at Midhurst Pharmasave, Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

At Midhurst Pharmasave we provide personalized customer service by our pharmacist owners, Jenna and Carolyn and staff.

We offer free prescription delivery to Midhurst and area.

Our holiday hours will be: Tuesday Dec 24th 9-3 Wednesday Dec 25th Closed Thursday Dec 26th 10-3 Tuesday Dec 31st 9-3 Wednesday Jan 1st Closed Cheers!

94 Finlay Mill Rd, Midhurst 705.503.7333 Mon-Fri 9-9

Sat 9-5

Sun 10-5

It has been predicted that if the world warms two degrees, people will die.

So if that is true, if we moved from our area to the Sarnia climate, where it is two degrees warmer on average, if you believe the scientists, you should die...or if you spend the winter in Florida or Mexico or if my son came home from the western part of Canada which is historically five degrees on average colder than here... Folks, it ain’t going to kill you and we have no history of it happening anytime in the past.

Scientist are also saying that because some places have experienced a degree of warming,

Issuu.com/springwaternews Articles can be dropped off, mailed, faxed and/or e-mailed to the above address or left in the Elmvale Library ‘Drop Box’ 24 hours a day.

THE NEXT PAPER will be on December 26, 2019 Publications Mail Contract No. 1443739.

Unaddressed Admail No. 3684814.

The paper is printed by McLaren Press in Bracebridge Springwater News is published every two weeks and delivered

by Canada Post and available at newsstands throughout the areas mentioned below. The opinions expressed in articles contributed by interested parties and through the ‘Letters to the Editor’ do not necessarily reflect the opinion of this newspaper and/or the editor. The editor reserves the right to edit all submitted articles or letters for clarity and space or to avoid obscenity, libel or invasion of privacy. All contributions must have the writer’s full name, address and telephone number for verification. Copyrights are claimed on all original articles.

Springwater News prints 19,900 papers.

18,700 are delivered by Canada Post to; 750 in the Utopia/Grenfel area L0L 1B0 and L0L 1B2 2912 in the Barrie City/Rural area 4100 in South Springwater Township 138 to the new boxes in Minesing.

If you know of someone not getting the paper, who got it before the restructuring, please let me know.

620 in Phelpston L0L 2K0 630 in Hillsdale including the Rural Routes L0L 1V0 2550 in Elmvale including the former RR# 1, 2 & 3 L0L 1P0 which includes Orr Lake, Waverley and some Tiny Beaches Road area 265 in the Wyebridge area L0K 2E0 950 in Wyevale L0L 2T0 including Conc. 8 and some TBRS areas, 1275 in Perkinsfield including Balm Beach to Whippoorwill 1075 in R.R.# 1, L4R 4K3 (775) & 2, L4R 4K4 (300) areas of Midland which includes Vasey, Ebenezer and the area North-West of Wyebridge 3075 in Northern Tiny including SS 3, 5, 6, 7 & 8 of Penetanguishene (Postal Codes L9M -1R2, -1R3 & -2H7)

150 through mail outs and subscriptions in Canada Subscriptions are available across Canada for $60/year and $100/year in U.S. of A.

the grapes grown in that are has led to the decline in the quality of the liquid, but one of those areas of California, because it has warmed a little, the wine is predictably better. In fact, the climate alarmists have shifted to scaring the Napa wine growers after their Italian and Greek wine scares have been debunked.

This is not meant to be political but rather just a poll of people who anonymously can give their opinions - which some might suggest are not in fitting with the 2019 agenda.

The question is “Do you support President Trump repealing Obama’s Transgender bathroom laws.” Further thru the article, it suggested this also meant dressing rooms and showers.

With 2316 votes, 97% said yes, 15 said maybe and 2% said no.

I accept the fact that this may not be too representative of the general society we live in but it shows a strong leaning.

I did not vote but had I had a chance, I would have been with the majority. I do not trust some male gendered person who weighs 200 pounds and thinks that today he is a 10 year old female in any of those three places with my (or your) elementary aged grand daughters.

There are people who suggest a Canadian Basic Income is Inevitable. A Basic income has come to mean a stipend paid to families or individuals without the many conditions and rules that govern existing income assistance programs.

The amount is reduced as income from other sources increase. One of the thoughts is that as robots replace human labour as has happened with many factory jobs, where will your income come from?

Or what about smart phones which now can instantly translate one language into another to assist in communications between people of two different mother tongues.

This is eliminating the need for translators.

In the newspaper industry, many of the stories are done by individual contractors. Instead of this paper needing a hoard of journalist to report on what is transpiring in the world, we have one person, someplace, writing a story and hoping many newspapers pick up the story and pays them for it. Another change is the addition of a media person added to the payroll of municipalities and hospitals / businesses who write a report and sends to various news outlets - thus I get the news without having to pay an individual who works for me.

But I think the whole idea is fraught with many problems.

If four of us live together and we each receive a basic income, why does anyone have to work. Let’s hope...

Charles - Christmas at your house...did you get my list?

Page 3 YOUNG LOCAL AMPUTEE APPRECIATES WAR AMPS SUPPORT

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

ANTEN MILLS NEWS by Dennis Gannon

It was a weekend to remember in our little community when we celebrated our Christmas in the Village this past weekend. Santa Claus came not once but two times much to the delight of all.

Our activities began on Saturday night with our 5th annual Tree Lighting.

There were movies, a warm fire, hot chocolate and apple cider. Members of

the Springwater Fire and Emergency Services brought Santa Claus who delighted those in attendance. After a countdown, the ground displays and tree were lit and a huge fireworks display shot into the night sky. The Wilson family who donated the fireworks asked that they be dedicated this year to all who have done so much for the community in the past and we were happy to do so.

The weather hung on for the 22nd edition of the Santa Claus parade on Sunday afternoon.

This year there were 14 entries all unique and entertaining.

The Barrie Dance Conservatory had a group of energetic dancers who performed with grace, elegance

and lots of energy. We had miniature horses, a 1929 Model A and ATV’s to name some of the participants.

Residents were again very generous and helped the Simcoe County Paramedics Toy Drive with the donations provided. Of course Santa Claus made his appearance escorted again by our fire fighters. Luella, McLaughlin and Ghibb had very interesting floats.

Ghibb had some fire with the incredible Willy Wonka in full attire, McLaughlin had the ice with the “new” Frozen 3 and Luella calmed everyone with their story time Gingerbread float.

As they were incredibly efforts of neighbourhood work, it was easy for the judges to make them all winners. Many thanks to all who made our weekend a success through their donations of either time or money. We certainly appreciate everything. In case you are planning for next year, our Christmas in the Village will be December 12 and 13, the second weekend of the month. As always we are open to suggestions and assistance on how to keep our events interesting and exciting so feel free to contact either myself or any member of the Community Recreation Committee.

The holiday decorations are out in full force on the homes in the community. With that in mind the 2nd annual Anten Mills “Unofficial” Christmas Decorating Contest is underway. Over the next two weeks a tour of the village will take place and a photo array will be published in the December 24th edition of this paper. Of course it will be difficult to make a decision so any assistance is appreciated.

With the snow of late the snow machines were running in full force this past weekend. A gentle reminder to

Rural Intentions - a word from Craighurst

by Lynette Mader (dlmader98@orilliapronet.com) "Come on down for hot chocolate and watch the Holiday Train go by," texted a neighbour on Friday, November 29th. Twenty minutes later, long before anyone expected the train, Dave received a second text. "The Holiday Train has come and gone!"

The festively decorated CP train blew through Craighurst earlier than expected and without slowing down. Fortunately, a local Craighurst family, the Ellesmere's, were on it for the leg from Mactier to Parry Sound. They invited my friend Betty Veitch to join them on the trip and I was able to get some photos to share with readers.

According to the CP webpage, the Holiday Train has raised more than CAD $15.8 million and 4.5 million pounds of food for North American food banks since 1999.

Everything raised in a community stays in that community and CP donates at each stop. A typical Holiday Train event goes something like this: the train arrives and pulls to a safe stop in front of the crowd. The stage door lowers, and the band opens with its first song. After that, a brief presentation takes place with local food bank officials and other dignitaries. Once complete, the band resumes performing a mix of traditional and modern holiday-themed songs. The whole event lasts about 30 minutes. Once the band plays its farewell song, the stage door closes, and the train heads off to the next stop. I’m not sure how one gets on the train: the website says it’s by invitation only and so it's a very special opportunity.

I’d like to send a shout-out to my neighbours for donating gifts for seniors in my dad’s long term care facility. Each gift will be beautifully wrapped and labelled in detail so that staff can decide which gift to give to whom. On Christmas eve, the staff will leave a package in each seniors’ room so they wake up to a lovely surprise. This is extremely special to me because I’ve gotten to know these seniors. There are some that rarely, if ever, get to leave the facility on excursions and receive few visitors. Many will not have any visitors on Christmas day. My dad is frankly miserable there, but he doesn’t realize or accept how fortunate he is in comparison to so many others. If you would like to give locally to seniors, you can do so through the Seniors Wish Association in Barrie, founded by local philanthropist Barb Richards. The Association is seeking submissions for seniors that are isolated and would appreciate a gift at Christmas. For more information, check out the Senior’s Wish Association Facebook page.

COME in and CHECK out our expanded selections of sandwiches, salads and hot food.

14 Yonge St. North, Elmvale • 705-322-2261

PHELPSTON, ON – Dec. 9, 2019 – As the year comes to an end, Laura Bateman, 16, of Phelpston, looks back with appreciation on the support she has received from The War Amps.

Laura was born a left hand amputee and, as a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, is eligible for financial assistance for the cost of artificial limbs and recreational devices.

She also attends regional CHAMP seminars where “Champs” and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and bullying, and parenting an amputee child.

“The CHAMP Program makes it possible for me to participate in any activity I choose, such as biking. Also, at this year’s seminar, I was a Junior Counsellor, and I was able to give back by being a role model to the younger amputees,” says Laura The War Amps entered its second century of service this year, and there is still much to do to ensure amputees, like Laura, have the artificial limbs or devices they need. “The War Amps receives no government grants, but with the public’s continued support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service, our vital programs for amputees will carry on long into the future,” says Danita Chisholm, Executive Director of the CHAMP Program.

Laura at this year’s annual War Amps seminar, wearing the artificial limb she uses to hold onto the handlebar of her bike.

Wyevale’s News Ruth Ann Caston 527-5274

Happy birthday wishes go out to Nancy Wilkinson, Judy Hall, Heather Sneddon, Paul Freiburger, Joshua Smith, Arya O’Connor, Brian VanderVoort, Peter Sneddon, Barbara Mitchell and Gillian Ross.

Bid euchre is on Friday afternoons at 1 p.m. in the church basement. Adults: $2.50 with prizes & light lunch. Winners from Nov. 29th were: 1st Lois Bertram, 2nd Dorothy Rumney and 3rd Mary Reynolds. Winners from Dec. 6th were: 1st Judy Hall, tied for 2nd Joan Thompson & Roslyn Maurice and 3rd Marguerite Stone. Everyone welcome.

Sunday Dec. 15th is the 3rd Sunday of Advent & Carol Service. Sunday Dec. 22nd is the 4th Sunday of Advent with Rev. Kathleen Greidanus. Christmas Eve Service at 7 p.m.

– The Christmas Story.

I would like to wish everyone, family and friends a very Merry Christmas and all the best in the New Year 2020.

Grenfel Area News w/ June Everton

Christmas Season is here again. A time for family gatherings being with the ones you love. Some families have their families across the miles. No matter where we live we can share our love. When we meet it can be Christmas.

Christmas celebrations have been happening at Grenfel United Church where we are celebrating the reason for this season...His birth in a stable many years ago.

Christmas Eve service will be at 7 p.m. Please come and join us.

Merry Christmas to one and all and if you are travelling to visit loved ones, be sure to drive carefully.

Happy and Healthy New Year to all.

Why do we shiver when we get cold?

Shivering is the cold-weather equivalent of sweating.

We sweat to cool off; we shiver to warm up. When our body runs out of fuel and energy out in the cold, it tries to produce more internal heat through the involuntary muscle movement we know as shivering. Moving our muscles burns calories and generates heat, which is why we get so warm when we exercise. Shivering, however, is pretty inefficient in us humans. It does a little bit of good, but mostly it is a sign that we should get in from the cold.

You may notice some birds shivering quite a lot. In some species, shivering is their main defense against the cold-and it works for them.

those who operate them that they are not permitted in our community parks and be responsible and respectful of private property. Remember that when on someone else’s property without permission you are trespassing and are subject to applicable laws.

For many in our community, the Christmas Eve tradition of waiting for Santa Claus to make his appearance escorted by the fire fighters is one that has families and friends getting together for many years.

Recently it has been discovered that this custom began in 1977 by the members of NO HST! NO HST! NO HST! NO HST! SAVE THE TAX! the former Vespra Fire Department. On good authority it has been learned that for the 42nd SNOWBLOWERS! time, emergency permitting, he will show HOLIDAYS ARE AROUND THE CORNER! TEL: 555 555 5555 WE HAVE A GREAT SELECTION OF up again. Usually he makes our community GIFT IDEAS FOR YOUR OUTSIDE between 6:30 and 7:15 so start making your Small Motor Sales & Service ENTHUSIAST! plans. On Christmas Eve watch the Anten CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY HOURS WILL BE IN EFFECT 705-725-0975 Mills Community Facebook page for updates AS OF: DECEMBER 18TH - CALL FOR DETAILS. PICK UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE on his arrival.

Sales & Service for all Brands of Lawn & That’s it for this week. Hopefully your Garden, Snow, Forestry Equipment.

OPEN: Christmas plans are coming together and the WED TO FRI 8-5 SAT 8-4 SUN 9—NOON last column of the year will be on December 4436 Horseshoe Valley Rd. West, Minesing 24th so if there is anything you wish to share contact me at antenmills1@gmail.com ON ALL IN STOCK

Page 4

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

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Elmvale BIA Update Three cheers to all the volunteers that have made Elmvale such an amazing community! So many seasonal activities have been happening this time of

Hello Springwater News: Henry Kiezebrink here.

From

We live on Baldwick Lane in 'southern' Springwater

all of us at the Elmvale BIA - Wishing Township (705-737-3135). To our surprise we saw on Sunday you a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2020! morning on our way to church the most wonderful sight. At

Hillsdale crossing to receive safety upgrades year...and WoW amazing events, community spirit and support!

Happy Retirement The BIA is sending out happy retirement congratulations to Faramarz Sajed of Idle

the 'S' bend on Baldwick Lane just prior to meeting County Road 90 we saw 24 trees that were wrapped in burlap now donned with Santa hats. We would request that you would print this picture along with the following words of thanks to whomever was responsible for this festive display. Thank you for considering this request, Henry.

Township of Springwater / November 27, 2019 – The Kiezebrink family from 3500 Baldwick Lane would like Highway 93 and Albert Street in Hillsdale will receive to thank the persons/neighbours who decorated the wrapped much needed safety upgrades with the installation of an trees at the S bend on Baldwick Lane right at County Road 90 intersection pedestrian signal to assist people crossing with Santa hats. They bring a SMILE to us every day! Great the road.

Christmas and community spirit, THANK YOU!

Santa’s Parades - Merry Christmas

Fancies. After 19 years of serving Elmvale Faramarz is retiring. Stop by his store to wish him well and save 50% off all items until Christmas.

The upper pivture is the crossing at Hillsdale now. What they have planned is like the one in the lower picture located beside the United Church on Yonge St as you come into Elmvale from the south.

Highway 93 is a busy transportation route, with many passenger vehicles and transport trucks passing through daily. Although the posted speed limit is 50 km/hr, vehicles often travel at speeds in excess of the posted limit. The Township provides crossing guard services at certain times throughout the school day to assist children crossing the street to nearby Hillsdale Elementary School, however some vehicles are reluctant to slow down and stop when necessary. Pedestrians attempting to cross the street at other times of the day are at even greater risk.

Following requests by the Township, the Ministry of Transportation installed a Level 2, Type B Pedestrian Crossing at the intersection during the summer of 2017.

While the crosswalk installed was an improvement, it creates further safety concerns due to the low visibility of the lights, which are especially difficult to see in bright sunlight. Residents feel that the crosswalk provides a false sense of security, as users proceed with less caution than they would without a crosswalk.

As a result, Township Council and Hillsdale residents met with the Honourable Doug Downey, MPP in July 2019 to share their concerns and examples of multiple near misses were provided by residents. In August 2019, Mayor Don Allen, Deputy Mayor Jennifer Coughlin and CAO Jeff Schmidt met with the Honorable Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation and her staff to request a signalized intersection.

“Resident safety is our top priority and we are pleased to hear that our concerns were addressed by the Ministry of Transportation,” says Mayor Don Allen. “On behalf of Springwater Council, I want to thank the residents of Hillsdale who continued to express their concerns and share their stories; this project has become a reality because of your passion and enthusiasm. Thank you to

MPP Downey and Minister Mulroney who took the time to listen and provide a solution to this issue and ensure the well-being of our residents.”

The Township will work with the Ministry of Transportation on the design process with the hopes of having the improvements installed by spring 2020. In the interim, residents are asked to continue using the existing pedestrian crossing with extra caution.

Springwater News Now • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653 Hiring!

2231 Nursery Road Minesing, Ontario L9X 1A8

Link

December 12, 2019

Upcoming Meetings Library Board Meeting Tuesday, December 17 at 7:00 pm Elmvale Library Branch Council Meeting Wednesday, December 18 at 6:30 pm Township Administration Centre

Now Hiring!

January 2 & January 3 Midhurst Community Centre | Ages 5-12

The Township is currently recruiting a: Committee Coordinator / Administrative Assistant Full-time, Permanent Position Closes: January 9 at 12 pm

January 2

Gymfinity Gymnastics

January 3

Winter Fun Bash

For a job description and details visit: springwater.ca/careers

SSEA Tree Seedling Program Severn Sound Environmental Association (SSEA) and the Township of Springwater are working together to provide property owners with reasonably priced, native tree and shrub seedlings for planting in early spring 2020. Tree seedlings must be pre-ordered by Friday, January 17, 2020. For program details visit severnsound.ca or call SSEA at 705534-7283 Ext. 202

Bid Opportunity The Township is currently accepting bids for the following: Double Micro Surface Treatment Flos Road 10 W (2019-42-PW) Bid Closes: January 2 at 2:00 pm Visit springwater.bidsandtenders.ca for details and to register for upcoming bids.

Do you have a pet dog?

Download the free Simcoe County Collects App

For after hours service please call 705725-2715.

Building Permit & DC Fees On January 1, 2020, Building Permit Fees and Development Charges (Township and County of Simcoe) will be indexed. The indexing will result in a 3.3% increase over the 2019 amounts. All building permits issued after December 31, 2019 will be based on the new 2020 indexed amounts.

The County of Simcoe is responsible for waste management and collection in Springwater. Recent service delays have impacted collections in the County.

Download the free Simcoe County Collects mobile app and receive updates on waste collection delays, reminders, view upcoming collections, find your nearest waste facility and search the Waste Wizard!

Alternatively, contact Service Simcoe at 1-800-263-3199 or info@simcoe.ca.

For larger projects please contact Building Services for additional information and processing requirements at 705-728-4784 Ext. 2017 or building@springwater.ca

Notice of Proposed Land Sale Take Notice that the Township of Springwater at its meeting of October 16, 2019 passed a resolution to authorize the private sale of lands known municipally as VESPRA CON 12 PT LOT 21 RP 51R28425 PART 2 (Baldwick Lane). These lands are proposed to be sold to the abutting land owner in accordance with the Municipal Act, 2001 and the Township’s Sale of Surplus Land Policy.

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The Township Administration Centre will close for the holidays on Tuesday, December 24 at 12:00 pm and will reopen at 8:30 am on Thursday, January 2, 2020.

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Waste Collection Impacts

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Fill out our online survey and share your thoughts at: springwater.ca/ canine

Holiday Office Closure

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Township staff are proposing a new Canine Control By-law, which will replace the Animal Control By-law and are seeking feedback from residents. The proposed by-law will outline topics such as animal licensing, fees, the Dog Owners Liability Act (DOLA) and dangerous dogs.

Camp costs $40 per child, per day.

Register by calling 705-728-4784 Ext. 2078 or by going online at: springwater.ca/camps

Council for the Township of Springwater will consider a by-law to authorize and finalize the sale of the subject lands at its Regular Meeting of Council on Wednesday, December 18, 2019 commencing at 6:30 pm in Council Chambers, 2231 Nursery Rd, Minesing.

Dated this 8th day of November, 2019 For further information regarding the proposed sale, contact: Renée Chaperon, Clerk, The Corporation of the Township of Springwater 2231 Nursery Rd, Minesing, ON L9X 1A8 P. 705-728-4784 Ext. 2026 | E. renee.chaperon@springwater.ca

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Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

Springwater Barns Cathy Walton has been researching barns in Flos and Vespra Townships (now Springwater) for the last six years and has published the results in the book “Vanishing Barns”.

Concession 9, SE ¼ Lot 19, Vespra Township If Lot you19,are interested Concession 9, SE ¼ Vespra Townshipin a copy, please contact Cathy at 705 728-1388 or snow-flake53@mail.com.

3292 Barrie Hill Lane, Springwater Township 3292 Barrie Hill Lane, Springwater Township

Owners 1954-present 1949-1954 -1949

Earl and Gladys (Bonney) Rugman Franklin Hickling, cousin of Gladys’ Walton Harris

Earl and Gladys (Bonney) Rugman Threshing

Built: 1936 Dimensions: 40 x 60’ Bents: 4 Features: 1 threshing floor, wooden silo taken down in 2015 Water Source: 198’drilled well in 1954, and 163’ drilled well later

Doors opened from the gangway into the threshing floor. The threshing floor was thicker than the mow floors and held the weight of a team and a threshing machine.

Sheaves were stored in the barn until a threshing machine arrived at the farm.

Neighbours helped one another, steadily feeding the sheaves through the threshing machine. Attached to the threshing machine was an elevator with small buckets on a chain. It raised the grain up and into the granary. The straw was blown outside and formed into a straw stack.

Earl was working with a neighbour’s team in Dalston where he grew up. He got off the wagon to unhitch the team, an apple in his hand. The neighbour yelled not to unhitch them, but it was too late.

The team took off with Earl standing on the tongue, holding onto the apple in one hand and the collar in the other. The team ran, hit a pole, went over a rough meadow and broke off the rack. When the tongue broke, Earl had to hold onto the tug. The horses suddenly stopped and Earl was still holding the apple.

When water problems developed a second well was drilled by Buie and Buker 4’ away from first.

The well drillers found wood at 128’. This was only second time they’d found wood; the other was at Shanty Bay. After the second well was dug, they pulled up the pipe and pump and found a piece of the plastic pipe in the valve. When they drilled the second well they could hear an underground stream.

Earl’s was a mixed farming operation with grain, hay and corn. He had a tractor, and his father George gave him a horse when he moved to Eldamere Farm. Earl used the horse to scuttle a few acres of potatoes. His paycheck paid for feed from the Barrie Co-op for 60 pigs. Earl milked 12 shorthorn cattle, and Bessie’s Dairy from Stayner picked up cream once a week. Earl took cream to the Barrie Creamery in Barrie in the 1950s. He had purebred Angus cattle and later Angus cross Seminole.

Threshing machines were an evolution, rather than an invention.

Earl on his 1940s tractor, make and model unknown.

The wooden silo was torn down in 2017.

Earl Rugman, Debbie Bagley.

The barn was moved from somewhere else and rebuilt by Ross and Les Bertram. The foundation was not properly built or planned and all the upper posts were on top of a window.

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Attracting and Retaining Millennials Key to Future of Skilled Trades TORONTO - Employers in the construction sector need to find new ways to talk to millennials if they are going to solve a looming skilled trades shortage.

"Young people have different attitudes towards life and work than the generations before them," said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, in an address to construction leaders at a CEO Breakfast co-hosted by ConstructConnect and the Toronto Construction Association. "The construction sector, along with others, needs to adjust to those changing attitudes to attract and retain talent."

Among the key findings of new research conducted by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development is the insight that young people prioritize independence and want to feel confident they have some control over their lives.

"Through health and safety, employers have an opportunity to show young workers they care," said Minister McNaughton. "If we empower young people to be able to speak up on issues of safety, if we provide them with the right mentorship and we give them all the tools, including new technology, this will go a long way towards meeting their needs."

Approximately one in two (55%) young workers in the construction feel safe at their current workplace, new data shows. Roughly the same proportion of young workers (54%) believe safety is more important than speed or profit.

"We need to prioritize a culture of safety over a finish-atany-cost mentality," said Minister McNaughton. "This will benefit workers and ultimately prove good for business."

An aging workforce is driving the shortage of skilled workers. Over the next decade, the Canadian construction industry will need about 300,000 skilled construction workers.

We need to end the stigma around the skilled trades, make the apprenticeship system easier to navigate, and find better ways to convince businesses to participate. That is my mission."

The steps are part of the government's commitment to help Ontario residents get career-ready and to enable employers to find the skilled labour they need.

Quick Facts • More than 500,000 people work in Ontario’s construction sector.

• About 13,000 jobs were unfilled across Ontario’s construction sector in the first half of 2019.

• Over the next 10 years, Ontario’s construction industry will need to hire and train about 104,000 new skilled workers.

Government Taking Action to Protect Ontario's Air Quality

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TORONTO — Ontario's government is taking action to protect Ontario's air quality and reduce smog-causing pollutants with a new enhanced emissions testing program that will save taxpayers' money and modernize services to make life more convenient for drivers and businesses, while ensuring the safety of our roads and the protection of our environment.

The new enhanced emissions testing program is for the biggest polluters on our roads such as commercial trucks and buses. To improve convenience for businesses and help reduce costs, the new program will be integrated with the existing annual safety Motor Vehicle Inspection Station program in 2021 to create a one-stop shop.

We are proposing changes that will: • Strengthen emission testing standards for heavy diesel commercial motor vehicles • Clarify existing laws against tampering with vehicle emission systems • Make it illegal to sell devices that interfere with or disable emisAvailable from Cathy Walton sions control systems • Enable stronger on-road enforcement of emission standards for at 705 728-1388 for $40. both light and heavy vehicles Integrating the new enhanced emissions program for heavy diesel commercial vehicles with the annual safety inspection program means owners of these types of vehicles would be able to get both an emissions and safety inspection at the same time and location — one test, with one digital result.

"By combining the emissions and safety inspection into one digital-based test, we are making life easier and more convenient for owners of heavy-duty diesel commercial trucks and buses," said Associate Minister Surma. "The Ontario government is working to keep our roads safe and environment clean while saving taxpayers time and money as we make government services more effective and convenient as part of our plan to grow Ontario's economy."

"The government of Ontario is introducing the most impactful enforcement measures in Canada with regards to reducing and targeting harmful emissions from non-compliant vehicles," said Stephen Laskowski, President of the Ontario Trucking Association. "By introducing an on-road enforcement regime focused on tampering, along with the development of an integrated annual safety and environmental inspection program for heavy trucks, the province of Ontario is leading on the reduction of smog-causing pollution and reducing unnecessary red tape for all trucking companies in Ontario."

Quick Facts • Heavy diesel commercial motor vehicles (e.g., transport trucks over 4,500 kg) remain a significant source of smog-forming pollutants.

• Between 2014 and 2018, 47 per cent of heavy vehicle emissions violations in Ontario included a violation for tampering with a vehicle’s emission system.

• Ontario’s Motor Vehicle Inspection Station program inspects motor vehicles, such as trucks and trailers, cars, buses and motorcycles to ensure vehicles meet a minimum safety standard.

• The government consulted on enhancements to the emissions testing program for heavy diesel commercial motor vehicles from September 28 to October 28, 2018 on the Environmental Registry and received over 200 comments.

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

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Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

Letters to the Editor

Please include phone number with any L to E You might not appreciate seeing your name on something you did not write.

HCES - Change of Teacher

Dear Mr. Peter Beacock, A letter from Huronia Centennial School came home with my son last night informing us of a staffing change being made at the school. While I do understand that at times changes have to be made, I have to wonder if the students' best interests are truly put first. I realize that this change comes due to the loss of a student at the school, and consequentially the loss of the position of the teacher and support staff who were working with that student. This, of course, created a ripple effect as that teacher was a contract teacher and my son's teacher was only an LTO. Therefore, her position must be given to him.

I have a few issues with the way this was dealt with.

First, I do not think that sending a note home the night prior to the teacher's last day provides enough time for parents to help their children deal with the upcoming change. My child has ASD and although many are unaware of his diagnosis, transitions as significant as this one have a severe impact on him. He spent the night upset and in tears! I am sure that he is not the only member of this class who spent their evening this way. Students form strong bonds with their teachers, and should be permitted time to grieve the loss.

In addition, there is absolutely no way that the new teacher taking over the classroom Monday morning will be adequately prepared to deliver the type of program that these students deserve. I do not personally know the gentleman replacing my son's teacher, and I am not saying that he is incapable of creating a quality program for these students. I am saying that it is impossible for him to do so in such a short period of time. Therefore, these students will be missing out on valuable learning time, thus impacting their overall education. Could this transition not have waited at least two more weeks until the Christmas Break?

Another issue that I have with this change is the fact that this class already underwent change in September when it switched from a Grade 3 class to a Grade 3/4 class. While my child did not have to change classroom teachers, there are some in the room who did. Now they must deal with yet another change. Many adults experience difficulties with even minimal change and here these children are being asked to deal with yet another huge change.

How is that fair?

My biggest fear for this group of young children is that the new teacher, will not stay. He has an interest in special education and is coming from an ASD classroom. Is a Grade 3 classroom where he truly wants to be or will he apply for other positions? Will this class have to go through yet another change?

There is a lot of talk about providing students with a quality education, but I ask you, how is it possible when changes like this are made? How is removing a dedicated teacher who has made strong connections with her students the right decision to make? How is it possible for teachers to provide a quality education when they have such little time to prepare?

Before my son went to bed tonight, for the first time ever without prompting, he picked up a pencil and wrote a message inside a card that he created for Miss. Hofmann. I have attached a picture of what he wrote. In case his penmanship is unclear it says, "Thank you for the help and toys and cool science activities. Thank you for being kind to us.

Thank you for treating us to surprises." Underneath that short piece of writing, he drew a picture of himself crying. He put a lot of emotion and effort into writing this note. He had to pause frequently to wipe away his tears and take a deep breath to keep himself calm. Please tell me how it is fair to put an eight year old through this. It has makes me question whether or not the public education system truly puts the interests of students first or if it is more focused on politics and money.

Extremely disappointed and frustrated, Christine Taylor "Projections of future climate change are not like weather forecasts. It is not possible to make deterministic, definitive predictions of how climate will evolve over the next century and beyond as it is with short-term weather forecasts."

- IPCC AR5 WG1 12.1 Page 1034

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Ontario is billions of dollars in debt and has 15 16 14 not seen a balanced budget in ten years. Premier Ford is attempting to address the problem by 17 18 19 slashing budgets to school boards, health care agencies, libraries and just about any other 23 24 25 department. But salaries for the police force and 20 21 22 their tag along brothers the fire department will 27 28 29 increase. Every December for the past ten years 26 the Police Services Board asks for a 4 or 5% budget increase, at least 3% above the rate of inflation, and 30 32 33 34 31 in February they are granted an increase of at least 1% above the rate of inflation - to hire new cadets 35 37 38 36 and increase their salaries.

This year inflation is running at approx. 2%.

39 40 Teachers, health care workers, and librarians are being asked to accept less, to take a reduction in 43 44 45 46 47 their pay checks - but not the police department. 41 42 And when budgets are finalized I predict the police 49 50 departments will again be granted an increase 48 at least 1% above the rate of inflation. When the police are granted a 3% increase it follows that 51 52 53 the fire departments cannot accept less. (these are the fellows that work 24 hour shifts two days a Across Down week and are encouraged to sleep at the station) 1 Loft As a percent of population, crime rates and fire 1 David Beckham’s Spice Girl?

5 “Drama, Period” channel 2 Smelter input emergencies have not risen over the past seven Across 8 Freudian term 3 Violation of moralsDown years, but the police and fire departments every year 11 Operatic solo 4 He wrote ‘The Seasons’ 1 1 Loft David Beckham's Spice Girl? require additional funding.

Lo-___ file 5 Estate administrator We are seeing the emergence of a police state in 12 5 "Drama, Period" channel 2 Smelter Finish, with “up” 6 Hideout which the police forces become so entitled and so 13 8 3 Violatio Freudian term 7 Some Romanovs powerful that no government will refuse anything 14 Controvert 11 Operatic 15 Red-white-and-blue inits.

8 Relating to the sky 4 He wro solo they ask.

Flower holder 9 Gloppy stuff 12 Lo-___ 5 Estate a file Joffre McCleary 16 17 Damage beyond use or repair 10 Select, with “for” 13 Finish, 6 Hideou with "up" Easter head attire 18 Slippery character Carriage Hills and Carriage Ridge 20 14 7 Some R Controvert 23 Energy rush 19 Ump’s call Timeshare Owners – 26 Ostrich kin 20 Nota ____ 15 8 Relatin Red-white-and-blue inits.

I am writing on behalf of an organized group of over 27 Neck adornment in Hawaii 21 Pass over 9 Gloppy 1,400 people, who own timeshare intervals at the 16 Flower holder 29 Group of contestants 22 Bird Carriage Resorts in Oro-Medonte, near Barrie, ON. 17 Damage beyond use or repair 10 Select, 30 Tiny complaints 24 Nor’easter The Group is representative of a much larger number 20 Easter head attire 18 Slipper 32 Sport shoe leather 25 Send forth of owners in Oro-Medonte and other timeshare resorts 34 Foreman’s superior 28 Complaint 19 Ump's c in Ontario, who have become aware of the difficulty 23 Energy rush 35 Community character 31 Young fellow 20 Nota __ of divesting themselves of their timeshare intervals. 26 Ostrich kin 37 Small brown finch 33 Kith companion Because of rapidly rising maintenance fees (from 27 Neck adornment in Hawaii 21 Pass ov 39 Aerial 36 Oater transport $500 to $1,500) and inclusion of an ‘in perpetuity 29 22 Bird of contestants 41 Group Obedience school command 38 As in a Michelangelo clause’, it is impossible to sell the timeshare interval, 43 Fire truck item sclupture 30 24 Nor'eas Tiny complaints in fact, they can’t even be given away!

44 Sensed 40 Medical check up 25 Send fo Owners who can’t pay the maintenance for reasons 32 Sport shoe leather 48 And more 41 Subdivision of an of health or lack of income (especially elderly owners 34 Foreman's superior 28 Compla 49 Pit fluid ocean on pensions) are being heavily penalized for late or 35 Community character 31 Young 50 Uncanny 42 Belonging to (pronoun) non-payment fees, and ultimately taken to court by 51 Silverybrown gray finch 45 Matrix character 33 Kith co 37 Small their Home Owners’ Association, where they lose 52 “Mamma Mia!” foursome 46 Measurement of force because of the perpetuity clause and structure in the 39 Aerial 36 Oater tr 53 Former magistrate of Genoa 47 Letter contract that they have signed. Credit ratings are being 41 Obedience school command 38 As in a destroyed, for otherwise, credit worthy individuals.

BRiDGE BiTES from The American Contract Bridge League 40 Medica In addition to the aforementioned, it is difficult 43 Fire truck item RolE REvERSal By: Brian Gunnell 44 41 Subdivi Sensed for owners to rent out the units to offset the Both Vulnerable ♠ aK4 maintenance fees, as Wyndham (Management 48 And more 42 Belong South West North East ♥ T94 Company) rents units for significantly less. Even 49 Pit fluid 1♠ Pass 2♦ Pass 45 Matrix ♦ T5432 at death, the obligation does not go away. As per 2NT Pass 4♠ All Pass ♣ AK 46 Measur Uncanny North ♠ Q72 ♠ J6 the Board of Directors of Carriage Hills Vacation 50 At rubber bridge, you win the Club ♥ J852 ♥ 763 47 Letter West East Silvery gray Owners Association, the in perpetuity clause is 51 lead, cash a second Club, then the top ♦ KQ6 ♦ J987 two trumps, and later take a Club ruff. interpreted to mean that the obligation passes to 52 Declarer ♣ 843"Mamma Mia!" foursome ♣ QT62 The dust clears and it’s 11 easy tricks. the estate’s heirs/beneficiaries; bleeding the estate 53 Former♠ T9853 magistrate of GenoaNow let’s replay this at duplicate ♥ AKQ for payment of maintenance fees on a product that scoring, where a second overtrick ♦A would be the difference between a cannot be sold. ♣ J975 great board and a merely average one.

As a result, the group has formed to target the If Declarer is looking for 12 tricks, it won’t do to take a second Club ruff on the following objectives: board, that would promote a second trump trick for the defense. No, instead of 1. Remove the in perpetuity clause at the Carriage taking two ruffs in the short hand, Declarer does better to take three Diamond Resorts and find a way to deal with the ever ruffs in her own (the long) hand. Here is the sequence of plays: ♣A wins opening lead increasing delinquencies and maintenance fees Cash ♦A problems.

Cash the Hearts Cross to the ♠A 2. Seek legislative change at the Provincial and Ruff a Diamond ultimately the Federal level to have the in perpetuity Cross to the ♠K clause declared illegal; stop high pressure, Ruff a Diamond Cross to the ♣K misleading sales practices, and enforce fair sales contracts that have clearly laid out exit provisions That’s 10 tricks in, and here’s the end-position: Dummy: ♠4 ♦T5 in them.

West: ♠Q ♥J ♣8 East: ♦J ♣QT The group is actively applying pressure for change Declarer: ♠T ♣J9 by invoking media involvement, by contacting Another Diamond is ruffed by Declarer and West has two choices: appropriate government agencies, and receiving - If he overruffs then Dummy is good - If he pitches a Club, then Declarer leads a Club and scores Dummy’s low input from people with experience in creating trump en passant change. For example, Irene Parker, a timeshare advocate from the USA has met with the group Usually, we seek extra tricks by taking a ruff or two in the hand with the short (which is usually Dummy). But occasionally, as here, there is a reversal to offer advice and suggestions based on her trumps of roles, and we go for multiple ruffs in the long hand, the so-called “dummy experience. Pat Foran, CTV News has recently reversal”. aired two segments about our situation.

Visit www.acbl.org for more about the fascinating game of bridge or email marketing@acbl.org Change is happening elsewhere, many US states For games in Barrie see www.barriebridge.com For games in Midland see www.midlanddbc.com have changed their laws; Spain and the UK are understood to have abolished the in perpetuity promises, and monies are not refunded. clause; while Quebec, here in Canada has Bill 178, The group needs the help of all owners and concerned outsiders to An Act to amend various legislative provisions achieve the objectives by helping with “write-ins” to government concerning consumer protection as it relates to agencies, by attending the Carriage Hills board meetings, by spreading timeshare agreements and sales. the word that the timeshare industry must come in line with fair sales One ugly side effect of the problem encountered is the and business practices, using clear contract structures that include exit emergence of agencies pursuing vulnerable/desperate provisions. owners to “get rid” of their timeshares. These are Sincerely, M. Jenkins proving to be, by and large, scams as virtually no sales Reflect on your present blessings, of which every man has many; not on have resulted while substantive fees are paid on the your past misfortunes, of which all men have some. Charles Dickens

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

My View – Bill French

Springwater Official Plan

I attended the Public Statutory Meeting on the new Official Plan being developed by the Township of Springwater to gather further information as the Township moves forward to update its 1998 Official Plan. The process commenced in 2016 but with the changes in provincial government in 2018 things have been on pause for over a year to better understand how the Ford regime would impact future plans.

Official Plans are to reflect how the populace sees the future of the Township rather than just the ideas of the development and land bank speculation industries. Unfortunately that is how the current 1998 Official Plan was developed with big money dictating the plan rather than the residents.

One of the misfortunes of the 1998 Plan was the expansion of the Midhurst settlement area (well that was the interpretation by the high paid development industry). Some of the Councillors of the day understood it as a Study Area rather than a new settlement boundary, but that is now water under the bridge as the Guergis 2008 Council approved the Midhurst Secondary Plan (MSP) and the Collins Council had it approved at the County level in 2011, forever destroying 2,000 acres of the best farmland in Springwater. Both Mr. Strachan and Mr. Evans from Midhurst addressed the follies of the MSP at the meeting and their comments hopefully hit home with the new Council. Up until the recent proposal in Innisfil to build a new City of 150,000 people in the middle of farmland, the MSP was probably the worst plan in Ontario when it comes to creating urban sprawl and endangering the environment forever.

I hope the Council heeds the comment made by Councillor Ritchie. He noted that he feels that they, as a Council, are making decisions and rubberstamping ideas without adequate input. It is unfortunate that Mayor Allen did not invite Councillors to question the 5 presenters that came forward to challenge the report to date.

The Consultant WSP are quite good and I have no issues with their work to date, but it is Council that needs to provide more commentary if the Township really wants a “Made in Springwater” plan. That is what we did with the Township Strategic Plan in the last term and it is still the guiding light as it is consistent with the ideas brought forward by Council, Staff and a number of Residents.

That is why it still works.

The Province and the County keep talking about affordable housing, yet no one has defined that term. I asked the Consultant to provide a definition of “affordable” in the plan based on different levels of income. The reality is that there is far too much focus on just home ownership rather than safe housing. Rental accommodation is an important aspect of affordable housing but few dedicated rental buildings have been developed in the last 40 years which has resulted in all levels of accommodation being out of reach for many especially the young and elderly.

I think the Township needs to provide in its plan specific areas in the Township that would allow developments such as the Parkridge development which is a complex of lower cost single detached condominium approach. Possibly this could be done outside settlement areas where land has not been hoarded by a few deep pockets. If these special developments were highly restricted in size and pricing, I am sure the land costs would be reflective of lower cost housing and it should be a combination of both ownership and rental. Projects like the Seniors Proposal in Elmvale presented to last week’s Council Meeting would fall under this category in my view.

During the first part of information gathering for the Growth Management Study and Discussion Paper, WSP conducted a number of workshops and Council has said they will continue this trend as they work toward a new Official Plan by the end of next year.

Because of the pending MSP approvals, and noted by Councillor Hanna at the meeting, unfortunately WSP had to propose ideas that would be implemented if the MSP ever does receive final approval.

I am one that hopes that never happens as Springwater will not continue to be a sustainable community as the costs for services especially water, sewer and roads will escalate at double digit rates and will be paid for by you and me the taxpayer. If growth is so good why does Barrie’s taxes continue to escalate while they fall farther behind in infrastructure replacement? Growth never pays for itself and the cost is even worse in rural areas like Springwater, as everything starts from scratch.

It is important to get involved now or you may have a plan for the Township that is totally contrary to what you feel Springwater should look like in the next 50 years. Because of inadequate dialogue, that is how we got off track in 1998, so don’t let that happen again. I encourage you to read the Growth Management Study and Discussion paper on the Township website found under the link of Official Plan.

Bill French is a seasoned business leader with over 40 years experience and served in senior positions of International Enterprises. Bill served as Mayor of Springwater and a County of Simcoe Councillor from 2014 to 2018 and has taught business at the college level for over 15 years.

Gary Lyte & Doug Harris

Working for the CUSTOMER

We are waiting for your call to help you with your new or used purchase!!

PROPANE • Residential • Commercial • Farm

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Drive cleared

SNOW! LET US DO IT! Local Honey Available

Bee Swarm & Wasp Removal

chev - buick - cadillac 550 Bayfield St. GMC Trucks 705 726 1811

http://youtu.be/MMWf4nuayWs The Honey Place has FIREWOOD FOR SALE!!

Genuine Caring is Best Christmas Present The best gift we can give to another is genuine caring. I mean the kind of caring that is evident when someone looks into our eyes when asking how we are, and really wants to know. When they have the time, or will make the time, to truly listen. You have the sense that, for that person, in this moment, you are all that matters. They are not waiting to tell their story, looking at their watch, or telling you what you should do.

Sometimes it seems teenagers do not share enough with parents, or men do not communicate enough with their partner. This just might be because they sense we are not truly listening to what they are saying.

Imagine that words are just the tip of an 'iceberg' the other is trying to describe to you. Your job is to actively work to understand as much of it as you can. Part of this task requires being silent, allowing the person the time and space to gather his or her thoughts.

You are just gathering information. Let him or her talk. When the speaker seems to have come to the end of the train of thought, you can ask clarifying questions. These are questions that help you to be clear about what is being said. They are not questions that lead into an expression of your point of view. When the listener feels you have really heard, there will be a sense of warmth, opening and closeness.

You can ask if there is anything he or she needs from you. If the answer is 'no', just leave it alone, and thank the person for sharing their thoughts with you.

If you use this approach consistently, you will be approached more often, just to 'talk'. What this really means, though, is that the person feels you care about them. Your gift has been received.

Gwen Randall-Young is an author and award-winning Registered Psychologist practicing in Sherwood Park, Canada. For information on her books, MP3 recordings and resources go to www.gwen.ca Follow her on Facebook for daily inspiration.

With the holidays here and pounds gained, how many calories do you have to burn to lose a pound of fat?

It takes about 3,500 calories to gain or lose a pound of fat. To give you an idea of how much energy it takes to "burn"

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2 Locations Sat 8 am to 1 pm 7 Yonge St. N. Elmvale 705.322.1652 202 Blake St. Barrie 705.725.9005 e-mail: oktire.elmvale@rogers.com a calorie, here are a few activities with the number of calories they burn per minute, per pound of body weight: fast ax chopping (or cross-country skiing uphill), 0.135; forking straw bales (or playing basketball), 0.063; window cleaning (or playing croquet), 0.026. So a 150-pound person forking straw bales burns 9.45 calories per minute, which means he or she must fork bales for six hours to lose one pound. (Though not listed, the one exercise guaranteed to burn calories is pushing one's chair away from the table!)

What is meant by a windchill advisory?

The Weather Service issues a windchill advisory when the combined wind speed and actual temperature result in windchills that are severe enough that they could lead to freezing of human flesh within a matter of minutes.

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Page 10 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

DOUG DOWNEY, MPP Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte

14-20 Bell Farm Road Barrie, Ontario L4M 6E4

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Elmvale 322-1482 Midhurst 737-5650 Minesing 722-6440 Online at www.springwater.library.on,ca Adult Games and Social Club Play games with friends and meet new ones too! Bring your favourite table game to share or join others in learning a new one. Led by Donna and Tony Cherutti. Light refreshments and friendship included! Wednesdays at Minesing Branch, 1:30pm4pm. For more information call 705-734-0753.

Holiday Wood Signs Personalize your own wooden holiday sign! Friday December 13, 7pm at Minesing Branch, cost $10.

Holiday Hours of Operation Our hours of operation over the Christmas holidays are as follows: Tuesday December 24 10am-2pm (Elmvale and Midhurst Branches only, Minesing closed) Wednesday December 25 Closed Thursday December 26 Closed Friday December 27 10am-5pm Saturday December 28 10am-4pm Monday December 30 1pm-5pm Tuesday December 31 10am-2pm Wednesday January 1 Closed Thursday January 2 return to regular branch hours.

Elf Escape Room Looking for something fun to do over the holiday school break? Sign up for your one hour session to help Buddy the Elf find the hidden key to Santa’s sleigh!

Ages 8+, Saturday December 28, 10:30am-2:30pm at Midhurst Branch, Friday January 3, 10:30am-3:30pm at Minesing Branch. Registration required.

Six Word Story Month For the month of January we are hosting a special Six Word Story contest at all branch locations.

Six word stories are: 1) Went swimming. Learned I can’t swim. 2) Handshakes are good. Hugs are better. 3) Torched the haystack. Found the needle. On Family Literacy Day Monday January 27 at Elmvale and Midhurst Branches (Tuesday January 28 at Minesing Branch) we will draw a winning entry for a prize!

Healthy Seniors – Vegan/Vegetarian Workshop Registered Dietitian Rebecca Hanemaayer is here to discuss the fundamentals of this diet. Samples will be served. This event is free but registration is required. Monday January 13, 2pm at Elmvale Branch.

Mom/Daughter Craft Club Sign up early for this popular and fun crafting night. Thursday January 16, 6pm-7pm at Midhurst Branch. Cost $10 per participant per craft.

Plasticine Art We’ve got the supplies, you bring your creativity! Ages 5+ please register for this program to ensure adequate supplies.

Saturday January 18, 1pm at Elmvale Branch. Cost $3 or Tuesday January 28, 3:45pm at Minesing Branch. Cost $3.

Epicure Soup in a Jar Ages 13+ can register to make some Epicure Spiced soup mixes in jars to be enjoyed on cold winter days. Wednesday January 22, 6pm Midhurst Branch. Five jars cost $25.

Refit Promo Class Instructor Angela Mullins is here for a FUN free workout to introduce you to the Refit dance/fitness class. If you think you can’t dance or if you can, this class is for you!

There will be a draw for a FREE MONTH of classes at the Midhurst Community Centre.

Wednesday January 22, 7pm Midhurst Branch.

Registration required.

Best of 2019 - TOP 10 list The highly anticipated list of the Top 10 Puppy Names for 2019 has arrived!

Trupanion, a leader in medical insurance for cats & dogs, combed it’s database of over 500,000 pets to find out what the most popular puppy names were for 2019. If you happen to bring home a new furry friend this season, you may want to use this list as inspiration when you’re considering names. Drum roll, please…

Most common puppy names in 2019: 1. Luna 2. Bella 3. Charlie 4. Bailey 5. Lucy 6. Cooper 7. Max 8. Daisy 9. Bear 10. Oliver Trupanion also looked at puppy names from a historical perspective (SEE CHART BELOW). As you can see, Luna tops the puppy name chart in 2019. But that wasn’t always the case. Looking back 10 years, Luna was barely a blip on the name game chart…not even cracking the list of top 20 names. Bella (always neck and neck with the name Charlie) took a dip in 2017 & 2018, but has edged back to the #2 spot this year.

Over a span of nearly 20 years, Trupanion has covered more than 785,000 puppies, paying out more than $100 million for medical care (puppies do love to get into things the shouldn’t)! If you track the dogs that have enrolled as puppies throughout their lifetime, Trupanion has paid out more than $400 million toward medical care as those puppies grow into adults.

In addition to greatly reducing the possibility of preexisting conditions, Trupanion encourages pet owners to enroll pets as puppies and kittens so they remain in that pricing category for the lifetime of the pet.

doug.downey@pc.ola.org

Ontario’s systems of justice have become outdated and bogged down by regulatory issues. Part of my role as Attorney General is to examine these sluggish systems, and figure out how we can improve them for future generations of Ontarians.

Earlier this week, I announced a new package of updates called the Smarter and Stronger Justice Act. If passed, this legislation would modernize and improve Ontario’s justice system in a wide variety of sectors. Here are a few examples of the improvements I am hoping to make in Ontario’s justice system.

First up is Laura’s Law, which is focused on giving families respect and closure when dealing with the death of a loved one. Laura Babcock was tragically murdered seven years ago, but Laura’s family has been unable to secure a death certificate because of the absence of a body.

Laura’s Law amends the death registration process to ease the burden on families in events like these and provide them the confidentiality and closure they deserve.

Next, we are working to protect victims of cyber bullying and support them after the fact. Sharing intimate images without someone’s consent is a serious crime that can have massive personal ramifications on the victim.

We are proposing a change to the regulations to make it easier for victims of this sort of attack to sue their offender.

Further dissuading people from committing this crime, and supporting the victims of it as they attempt to move on from the incident.

Finally, we are proposing multiple changes to modernize notary and commissioner services in Ontario.

We are starting the process of allowing paralegals to be appointed as notaries, like lawyers, to expand choice and availability for Ontarians. In addition, we are making life easier by paving the way for Ontarians to have their legal documents verified online. This will save Ontario families time and provide them a convenient at home alternative for verifying their legal documents.

These are just a few examples of ways I hope to modernize Ontario’s justice sector. There are a wide variety of other proposals in this bill affecting everything from small estates and class action lawsuits, to marriage ceremonies and juror privacy. For more information on these modernizations, please visit Ontario.ca.

Doug Downey MPP

Wilson asks Ontario government to fund after-hours medical clinic in Wasaga Beach Springwater News goes All Inclusive Here is Summer and Hope Pilon enjoying the news back home while vacationing at the Melia Resort in Nassau in the Bahamas.

reader).

Read to Tilley the Dog Parents of readers aged 5+ sign up for a 15 minute time slot for 4 weeks to read to Tilley the trained dog. Thursdays January 9, 16, 23 and 30 at Elmvale Branch, 5:30pm6:30pm (one 15 minute time slot per Silk Scarf Program Pick your colours to compliment your wardrobe and make your own personalized

and unique silk scarf for yourself or as a gift. Friday January 31, 7pm at Minesing Branch.

Cost $10. Registration required to ensure adequate supplies.

On Wednesday, Simcoe-Grey MPP Jim Wilson questioned Health Minister Christine Elliott over funding for the after-hours medical clinic in Wasaga Beach that is due to close at the end of December. Wilson is concerned that the closure, coupled with a shortage of family physicians in the area, will leave many residents with no options for care. “… for a year now, the Town of Wasaga Beach has operated and funded an after hours medical clinic as a trial project … with the news that a local doctor has just recently had his licence suspended, the need for the clinic is even greater,” said Wilson. “So I ask the Minister, Mr. Speaker, if the government could provide some immediate financial assistance so the clinic can remain operational in 2020 until the town pursues and is successful with a doctor recruitment campaign.”

Minister Elliott explained that the government has initiatives in place designed to assist local communities recruit physicians and that the government’s overall transformation of health care and focus on Ontario Health Teams will eventually improve the coordination of every aspect of patient care. The Minister promised to work with Wilson and the community to find an immediate solution to the after-hours medical clinic’s closure until other arrangements are made for new physicians to come to the community.

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Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

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Mixing cannabis and alcohol - advice on creating a safer holiday party

By Brian Cameron, Oatley Vigmond LLP

This is a busy time of year for holiday parties at people's homes and workplace. It is also a time of year when some people drink more than usual and get into accidents when operating a vehicle while under the influence.

Whether you’re an employer hosting a company holiday party for your staff, or an individual planning an event for family and friends at home, it is important to be aware of your potential liability and your responsibility as a host and to take steps to ensure everyone gets home safely. The legalization and growing popularity of cannabis use makes it much more difficult to know if your guests are safe. It’s harder to monitor cannabis use and to tell when guests become unexpectedly more intoxicated due to the mixing of alcohol and cannabis.

The Supreme Court of Canada has considered the issue of social host responsibility and left the possibility of finding social hosts liable should a guest be involved in an accident.

In a recent legal decision, released in February 2017, Wardak v. Froom, an Ontario court left open the possibility that a social host could be held responsible if an intoxicated guest becomes injured after leaving their event. In that case, the plaintiff left the party on foot, went home and got into his car and was involved in a serious single vehicle accident. He sued the hosts of the party he had been drinking at that night. The court denied the defendants’ motion to dismiss the case before trial.

Social hosts may be held liable if an intoxicated guest is injured, even if the hosts did not serve alcohol or cannabis directly to the individual. This is particularly the case if the guest was invited and underage.

For homeowners planning a holiday party, ensure that you offer your guests non-alcoholic beverages and that guests who have consumed alcohol and / or cannabis have a designated driver or taxi to take them home or have them spend the night. Let guests know that if they plan to enjoy cannabis that it is an expectation that the don’t mix it with alcohol.

Employers hosting a company party should also be mindful of impaired driving after a company event, as business owners have been found liable for holiday parties that have gotten out of control and caused injury to their employees. Unlike social hosts, courts will treat employers in a similar way to a bar that overserves a patron who then drives and causes an accident.

Impaired driving is reckless and dangerous. People who drink should obviously take responsibility for their own actions. However, employers and social hosts also assume partial responsibility to ensure that guests get home safely after they have been drinking alcohol and / or using cannabis. It’s in everyone’s best interests to have a safe and responsible party.

Brian Cameron is a senior partner at Oatley Vigmond LLP – Ontario’s largest personal injury law firm. You can reach Brian at www.oatleyvigmond.com

Once a man has tasted freedom, he will never be content to be a slave. That is why I believe that this frightfulness we see everywhere today is only temporary. Tomorrow will be better for as long as America keeps alive the ideals of freedom and a better life. -Walt Disney, entrepreneur and animator (5 Dec 1901-1966)

HALIFAX, Nova Scotia, - Halifax Shipyard has commenced initial builder’s sea trials for Canada’s lead Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship (AOPS), the future HMCS Harry DeWolf.

The lead AOPS departed Halifax Shipyard at 0945 Nov 22 and, using its diesel-electric engines, moved to the Bedford Basin to start initial builder’s sea trails associated with anchor handling, the integrated bridge and navigation system (IBNS), fin stabilizers, Multi-Role Rescue Boat (MRRB) launch and recovery, and communication systems.

Initial builder’s sea trials will continue over the next few weeks and will be followed by formal sea trials and acceptance by the Royal Canadian Navy. This will span into the first quarter of 2020.

At 103 metres and 6,615 tonnes, the future HMCS Harry DeWolf is the largest Royal Canadian Navy ship built in Canada in 50 years.

There are currently four AOPS under construction at Halifax Shipyard, including the future HMCS Harry DeWolf. The future HMCS Margaret Brooke was launched on November 10, 2019 and is currently pier side where work continues to prepare the ship for sea trials and handover to the Royal Canadian Navy late next year.

Inside Halifax Shipyard’s facilities, the Royal Canadian Navy’s third and fourth AOPS, the future HMCS Max Bernays and the future HMCS William Hall, are under construction. The first two major sections of the future HMCS Max Bernay are scheduled to be moved outside in spring 2020.

Over the next few decades, Halifax Shipyard will build six AOPS for the Royal Canadian Navy, two AOPS for the Canadian Coast Guard, and 15 Canadian Surface Combatants for the Royal Canadian Navy, as part of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS).

As a result of the NSS, Irving Shipbuilding has become one of Atlantic Canada’s largest regional employers, with thousands of Canadians now working in skilled, well-paying jobs. Halifax Shipyard, long at the centre of Canadian shipbuilding, is now home to the most modern, innovative shipbuilding facilities, equipment, and processes in North America.

Halifax Shipyard is also continuing its legacy as the Halifax-class In-Service Support Centre of Excellence, with HMCS Charlottetown currently in the graving dock for an extensive docking work period.

About Irving Shipbuilding Irving Shipbuilding Inc., Canada’s National Shipbuilder, is the most modern shipbuilder and in-service ship support provider in North America. Headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, our skilled team and innovative facilities provide efficient building, fabrication, conversion and servicing of vessels and offshore platforms. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. is the prime contractor and shipbuilder for the Royal Canadian Navy’s next class of Canadian Surface Combatants (CSC) and Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships (AOPS) as part of the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). We are proud to continue our long history as a trusted partner in Canadian shipbuilding. Irving Shipbuilding Inc. is a member of the J.D. Irving, Limited group of companies, a diverse family owned company with operations in Canada and the United States. Learn more at www.IrvingShipbuilding.com or www.ShipsforCanada.ca.

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440 Police Recruits Graduate from Basic Constable Training AYLMER — The Ontario government is honoured to recognize the third graduating class of 2019 from Ontario's Police College (OPC).

"Policing is a noble profession - one that requires courage, compassion and commitment," said Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General. "As today's graduates take the next step in their career, we're reminded that Ontario's police officers risk their lives each and every day to keep our communities safe, and for that, we should all be thankful."

The successful completion of basic constable training marks an important milestone on the path to becoming a police officer. During this 12-week program, recruits learn how to prevent crime, assist victims, maintain public order and respond to emergencies. Today's graduates will continue learning at their respective police services in communities across the province.

"On behalf of the Ontario government, I would like to congratulate all 440 officers graduating today. I'm pleased that today's graduates are more reflective of the communities they will serve with more than a quarter being women, a third able to speak more than one language and one in four who identify as a visible minority or Indigenous," said Jones. "It took a lot of hard work and commitment to reach this goal and as you move forward in your career, know that we are committed to providing you with the support and resources you need to keep the public safe."

Quick Facts • The OPC has been training new police hires since 1962.

• The basic constable training program is delivered by the OPC three times a year.

• Since September 2018, 1,655 recruits have completed the program.

• Of the 440 graduates, the average age is 28 and 90 per cent have completed post-secondary education.

Don't go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first. --Mark Twain

Page 12 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca Purpose By Erin Archer Ontario Invests in Police Services to “Close your eyes. Now take Keep Impaired Drivers Off the Road

yourself to the house in the fog”…

My modest home appears.

Symmetrical and simple. White siding, white picket fence, about one foot high. This is my space yet all are welcome. My path from the road to the front door is unwavering.

I open the door. Dirt floor toped starkly with primitive décor, bleak. The open staircase straight ahead, reaches up to the second story. I climb it like an old barn ladder to the hayloft. Hallway, windows at either end, floor level. Three closed doors along the far wall.

“Now go to your room of Purpose”…

I turn left and walk to the last door. I open it. The room is cluttered, so many objects. No association. A scattered collection of thoughts maybe? I’ve longed my whole life for the answer. Directly in the center of the room, a projector screen appears, open and blank, stark white.

“What is my life’s purpose?” I ask. A beautiful image appears. A majestic Doe. Alone, strong. Eating from lush grasses. Mountains grace side stage left, with sparkling glacier water emanating from the top, feeding the stream below. Serene, peaceful, abundant. “But what does this mean?” The screen draws blank then a symbol appears.

Not one I have ever seen before. “What is this?” I think. I commit it to memory, knowing it will be revealed one day.

Thanks is given. I walk myself out of the room, down the stairs, through the front door…10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 The house is asleep when I arrive home. With the ‘All Nations Water Ceremony’ only days away, I take a moment to hop online and check bids placed on Indigenous art raising funds for the sacred weekend. And there it is…the symbol…

A hand-beaded medallion titled “the Water Spirit” ~E

PLEASE JOIN US: *HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE!!! We would like to formally thank all of you, our supporters, volunteers, back patters and hand clappers. Please join us Sunday December 29th 10:00am-2:00pm in Wyevale, #40 Concession 6 West for an informal meet and greet, cheer and treats • REACH OUT: We are looking to present to service clubs and groups. If interested, please call me directly at 705-796-7429 • EMAIL: join our email list to receive monthly updates and request delivery of our fundraising items, info@friendsofthewaverleyuplands.ca • FIND AND “LIKE” US on Facebook at “the Friends of the Waverley Uplands” • SEARCH how you can support by donating to FoTTSAs fight against Dufferin Aggregates Teedon Pit Expansion at www.tinycottager.org

TORONTO — Ontario is investing approximately $2.4 million in funding through its Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) Grant to help police services across the province detect impaired drivers and keep our streets and highways safe.

172 police services will receive the funding they need to carry out this vital road safety mission throughout the year.

"Sadly, impaired driving continues to be the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada," said Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General. "The funding our local police services receive will help them conduct regular roadside spot-checks and education campaigns needed to detect impaired drivers and keep our roads safe throughout the year."

In the last decade in Ontario, more than 1,700 lives have been lost and over 25,000 people injured in collisions involving an impaired driver. With the legalization of recreational cannabis last year, roadside spot-checks have proven even more crucial.

"Impaired drivers, whether by drugs or alcohol, can be found on the road every single day — not just around the holidays," said Solicitor General Jones. "It's simple - don't get behind the wheel if you're impaired - make alternative arrangements to get home. This single decision can save your life and the lives of others."

As Ontarians prepare for the holiday season, they are reminded to make plans to get home safely whether by arranging for a designated driver, ordering a taxi or rideshare or taking public transit. They should also take immediate action if they see someone who may be impaired by arranging a ride for them, suggesting alternate arrangements, or even calling 911 if someone is a risk to themselves and others.

Quick Facts • All municipal and First Nations police services and OPP municipal contract locations are eligible for funding under the RIDE grant program.

• The grant is intended to cover sworn officers' overtime and paid duty RIDE activities.

• Drivers who are found to be driving while impaired will face penalties immediately. They will also face additional consequences later if they are convicted in court. Impaired driving penalties can vary depending on the driver’s age, licence type, the amount of alcohol or drugs in their system, and how many times they have been convicted.

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RVH lobby filled with angels Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s (RVH) Main lobby was filled with angels for the annual Angel Tree ceremony held on November 27.

This is the eighth year the Angel Tree ceremony, founded

by Brenda Stanley, owner of Heart of Business, has been held at RVH. The initiative supported Bell Media’s Radio for Cardiology pledge to the Hearts & Minds campaign, raising funds specifically for RVH’s regional heart program. The pledge was recently completed in May when, during the live radiothon in RVH’s main lobby, the teams from Pure Country and 104.1 The Dock announced they had reached the $1 million goal. Both Brenda Stanley and Bell Media have committed to continue their support until RVH is delivering cardiac care 24/7.

The beloved holiday tradition was kicked-off with the placement of the first two angels on the beautifullydecorated tree.

An angel was placed by Janice Skot, RVH president and CEO, in memory of her mother Terry O’Brien and the second angel by Linda Sansom, a registered respiratory therapist. Ransom placed an angel in memory of her colleague Mary German, who passed away almost a year ago from cancer. Her angel also represents all staff, physicians, volunteers and patients who have also passed away this year.

“The holidays can be a difficult time for people, especially if they have lost someone they love. It is also a special time to be inspired by angels who are still among us,” says Skot. “The Angel Tree ceremony is a beautiful way to remember those people, while at the same time supporting the important work we are doing to bring care closer to home. We are fortunate to live in a community so full of generous and kind-hearted people.”

RVH invites patients, visitors, physicians and volunteers to honour a friend or loved one this holiday season by supporting the Angel Tree campaign. The angels are purchased for a minimum donation of $10 from the RVH Foundation, located in the health centre’s Main lobby near Café Royale, until December 23 or online at AngelTree.

Kintera.org.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) recently hosted the official launch of the Angel Tree campaign with the placing of the first angels on the tree by Janice Skot (right), RVH president and CEO, and Linda Sansom, a registered respiratory therapist. Skot placed an angel in memory of her mother, Terry O’Brien, and Sansom to honour colleague Mary German who passed away almost a year ago.

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

Come and Look Around!

Elmvale Active Seniors Residence

Page 13

FABULOUS SUPPORT! That was the comment so often shared before, during and after last night’s Open Meeting of the Springwater Township Council. Residents of the Elmvale community braved the blustery winter weather and arrived earlier than 6:30, 1100 Flos Road 4 West, Phelpston filling the meeting room. Fortunately, the Council ChamComplete Repair & Maintenance service bers has a sliding glass wall which had to be opened to acCars, Trucks & Trailers commodate the ever-growing crowd and many additional Motor Vehicle Inspection Station chairs had to be found and moved. Three agenda items Clean & Modern Facility were of particular importance for the Elmvale community Quality Workmanship in Every Job last night. Greg Davidson, a teacher at Elmvale District Marc Schutt • Tel: 705-322-4301 High School, brought two students who participated in an exchange programme with students from a First Nations Fax: 705-322-3027 • Cell: 705-322-0150 school in Northern Saskatchewan and they shared a slide Email: twoguysautomotive@hotmail.com show of their experience with Council. There was a spirited discussion about the need for a safe way to cross Yonge Ontario Takes New Actions to Combat St. N near Foodland. Many of our seniors who were in the Bullying in Schools audience will be impacted by the crossing strategy.

We are extremely grateful for the interest shown to the TORONTO — Today, Stephen Lecce, Minister of Educapresentation that Sam Langman made to Council. The tion, announced five new measures to prevent and combat EASR group had three large posters outside of the room bullying in Ontario schools to improve student safety and that showed some of the concept plans for our proposed well-being. These latest steps include: development. A “Public Use Fact Sheet” was distributed to • The assignment of Christina Mitas, MPP for EASR FACT SHEET QUEEN STREETisEAST V2.2 Page 4 attendees.

Actually, the “Sheet” moreLANDS like a “Booklet”, Scarborough Centre and former teacher, to advise the Sports with Patrick Townes since it is 20 pages in length! Sam made an excellent preMinister on education matters with a focus on bullystrong need for the project, the For as long as I can remember, Dad and sentation, highlighting ing prevention; PUBLICtheVERSION I were loyal listeners to sports radio and outstanding community support, and the need to move this • A province-wide survey to better understand stuthe Fan 590. There was rarely a morning initiative forward as soon as possible. Following the predents' experiences with bullying; THE where the radio was not NEED on before work sentation, there was an opportunity for questions and com• Training for educators in anti-bullying and dements. We of were overjoyedstood to hear positive responses and school, or a carInride the radio escalation thewhere 2016 census, the population Springwater at such 19,055 of which 16.0 % were age 65 and techniques; was not turned to sports.

Sportsnet has from the Councillors! To the elected members of Council • A review of school reporting practices on bullyover. recently begun to cut key members and we say “Thank You” for your encouragement and support! ing; and EASR QUEEN STREET EAST LANDS Page 4 entireSHEET Council meeting was recorded on itsV2.2 youtube more reputable spokespersons from TheFACT • A review of the definition of bullying in ministry channel and can be found by clicking the following link. their radio programming. policies to ensure it reflects the realities of today.

by Sam VERSION can be found between the times Perhaps the biggest loss from the Fan 590 was Bob The presentationPUBLIC "We are taking action to root out bullying in our schools McCown who was on the radio for your drive home from of 0:42:16 and 0:59:50, and again between 1:56:40 and with one aim - keeping Ontario's students safe," said Minwork. McCown started his career way back in 1977 1:58:06. We encourage you to listen to the presentation as ister Lecce. "We are working to change the culture to one THE NEED and Primetime Sports started in 1988.

Prior to his exit, well as consulting the ‘Fact Sheet’. where everyone sees the inherent dignity and the value of https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dxc9UjidYeQ there were rumours of retirement, however it census, becamethe population a person, of their faith, heritage or orientation In the 2016 of Springwater stood at 19,055 of which 16.0 % were age 65irrespective and . Thanks again for your ongoing support. Doug Jackson, or race or their income, to build a more accepting and inclear that Sportsnet was cutting budgets over.and, as a result, McCown was also cut from the program. McCown was clusive province." almost fearless on the radio, and not afraid to tell anyone As part of MPP Mitas' new role, she will engage with his opinion or his thoughts. For those who called in to students, parents, educators and experts to provide shortbe guests on his show, he seemed to have a very special and long-term strategies to combat bullying and ensure relationship with the callers, often times chatting about life students have the right tools and supports. outside of sports.

"I am thrilled to be assigned to this new role and to work In my opinion, this is now what is missing from the Fan on such an important issue," said MPP Mitas. "We want 590. The morning show now consists of three people (one kids impacted by bullying to reach out and for them to being a former NHL player) who canSpringwater be characterized as a Rural municipality with a number of smaller urban centres, theknow they are not is mainly second largest of alone. We all have an obligation to make “younger”, and who have yet to really cement any real of Elmvale. Currently considered a Major Community with fullsure that our schools are safe and inclusive places that foswhich is the Community services relationships with the guests. This (municipal results in water repetitive terinlearning and sewer) in the Township, Elmvale’s population alone stood at 2315 2016. while keeping the nurturing of the whole child questions with quick answers, rather than a flowing in mind."

Statistics Canada provides the following population statistics for the Town of Elmvale itself. conversation amongst peers. Similarly, the afternoon To complement this work, the province will be launching show is now spent more or less joking about meaningless a student survey to learn about students' experiences with things. Conversations are vague and there are no real bullying and the reporting of incidents. This information, relationships amongst hosts and guests (for the most part along with input from the survey, will be used to better -- in my opinion). understand the issue and find new ways to make schools Why did I choose this topic to discuss in this isweek’s safer and largest more inclusive.

Springwater mainly a Rural municipality with a number of smaller urban centres, the second of article? Well because I have all but completely abandoned which is the Community of Elmvale. Currently considered a Major Community with fullTraining services will be offered to educators to ensure they have the Fan 590 (and all radio) from my(municipal drive to and home theintools water and sewer) in the Township, Elmvale’s population alone stood at 2315 2016.and resources needed to address bullying in from work. No I do not sit in silence. Statistics I do listen to what schools.

Canada provides the following population statistics for the Town of Elmvale itself. Educators will learn anti-bullying and de-escaare called “Podcasts” and, until last week, I could not lation techniques to reduce instances of bullying, support tell you what a podcast was. A Podcast is a digital audio victims and help students develop feelings of empathy. file that is made available for download on the internet As well, the Ministry will be looking at the definition of and various applications on your cell phone. For me, I bullying in its policies to ensure it accurately captures the download various broadcasts and listen to them on the way various forms of bullying and cyberbullying faced by stuhome. dents today.

What’s different? For one, there are no sensors for what "Kids Help Phone hears from young people in Ontario people can and cannot say. I would caution some listeners every day that bullying, both in person and online, conthat some topics and stories are not for all ages, so beware. tinues to pose a significant challenge," said Alisa Simon, Secondly, the stories and interviews I have been listening Senior Vice President, Service Innovation and Chief Youth to are real and include great conversations. There is one Officer, Kids Help Phone. "We are the only 24/7 service to show in particular that is run by former NHL players who support young people develop healthy relationships, feel have players, retired players and coaches on the air. The less alone and gain skills for navigating the impacts of bulconversations between participants are so engaging it will lying. We want to ensure young people know that support keep you coming back. Another good thing is just a call, chat or text away." about Podcasts is that you can choose a Quick Facts particular topic and concentrate your efforts • The government has updated on that, rather than listening to one radio the Health and Physical Education curstation. riculum for grades 1 to 8 to now inThere was an article posted regarding clude mandatory learning about online ratings for the Fan 590. There were many safety in all grades. In addition, learnconfusing numbers listed in the article, ing about cyberbullying, cyber security but bottom line, the station’s ratings have and privacy has increased. Implemendropped since the exit of Bob McCown, tation of the updated curriculum began and many others. So whether Bob is in September 2019. directly responsible for this, or listeners are • The government has invested changing to satellite radio or Podcasts, the $3.18 million in the 2019-20 fiscal year Fan 590 needs to step up their game, and towards various programs, partnerships build back up the relationships that may and services that help to promote a poshave been lost since the more veteran staff itive school climate, support healthy rehave been leaving. lationships, build empathy and address bullying and cyberbullying.

The key to keeping your pine wreath • Ontario announced an inlooking and smelling fresh is as close as vestment of nearly $40 million in the your bathroom cabinet.

2019-20 fiscal year to advance stuTurns out, a spritz of hairspray seals in dent mental health in partnership with moisture and keeps the pine needles from education groups. It also committed to drying out. permanently fund approximately 180 Your outside wreath may need a spritz or frontline mental health workers in sectwo every few days to keep them looking ondary schools. gorgeous.

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Page 14 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca The OPP Report - Scams

Fake Emergency Alerts Spark Danger and Panic What kind of emergency would make you run out of your home, perhaps without giving much thought to what you're leaving behind, maybe not even locking the door?

How about a public alert warning of an impending disaster like a flood, tornado or earthquake?

If you felt worried enough for your own safety and that of your family, you'd maybe act before giving it a second thought. Like: Was that alert genuine?

You may think a fake alert seems a little far-fetched, but it isn't.

Scammers are playing the panic card by phoning people to as many phones as possible and push a panic-inducing and telling them there's some kind of extreme weather or message to as many phones as they can." a quake due to strike at any moment and urging them to Evidence of how people react in these situations can be evacuate their homes. seen in what happened last year when residents of Hawaii They watch for their victims to leave home and then received an erroneous message warning of an inbound burglarize it. missile threat.

For example, in Orange County, California, scammers To make things worse, the message contained the words have been phoning scores of people saying that an 8.4 "This is not a drill," as a result of which many people went quake was expected to strike imminently. An 8.4 is a into a blind panic. doozy, enough to drive most residents out of their homes.

Disruption and Risk Of course, if you thought about it, scientists are not able One effect of this type of fake emergency alert is to disrupt to predict earthquakes, certainly not with sufficient timing a whole range of services and businesses, accompanied by to be able to fit in a phone call before it hits. a high risk of injury or death.

But there are other phenomena that could be more Also, this past August, several TV networks were fined convincing -- for example, if you lived in the vicinity of a by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) forest fire or in an area susceptible to tsunamis. for using simulated wireless alert tones.

Fake Texts Even though the incidents -- there were at least three A similar response has been shown to follow fake on different channels -- didn't cause panic, the FCC is emergency text alerts. worried that people will become used to the tones, so they Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder won't know when they're genuine. It's a sort of telephonic recently discovered a vulnerability in LTE cell phone version of crying wolf. networks -- the wireless ones we all use -- that enabled Just to make things worse, program developers have them to send spoofed emergency alert texts. created an app for Android phones that is capable of They showed how they could send a generating emergency alerts on individual fake AMBER Alert to 50,000 people in a devices.

If you want to drink, football stadium.

The developers even say it's "ideal for Obviously, a crook who tried this trick drills, pranks, and role play." Pranks? that’s your business. would not be intent on burglarizing, but The problem all of these fake emergency If you want to stop, more for creating panic or a terrorist alerts are creating is the potential for that’s ours. attack. confusion and the risk of falling victim, Tech and lifestyle website mic.com, whether it's to a burglary or a human panic which reported the fake alert simulation a stampede. few weeks ago, commented: "It's not hard Unfortunately, there may not be a lot to imagine how quickly a situation could we consumers can do to defeat these go very badly if this type of attack was tricksters, whether they're scamming or Orillia 325-6385 carried out. exercising their own distorted idea of fun.

Midland 526-3305 "The researchers even laid out a situation But they do underline the importance of Bracebridge ~ in which it could happen: malicious actors at least pausing in an alert and avoiding 705-646-2491 set up a fake cell tower outside a stadium panic. www.egbdaa.org or other heavily trafficked area, connect In the Hawaii incident, many residents

Call Alcoholics Anonymous

Conflict Resolutions Part 6 By: Little Brown Bear (Ernest Matton) I.C.A.D.C., E.F.A.P., Certified Gladue Writer Addiction Behavioral Specialist E.F.T. Practitioner • T.I.R. Facilitator Strategies for Managing Impasse Impasse is an important challenge in the evolution of a conflict. During the negotiation process, people will commonly get “stuck” and feel a sense of desperate frustration about what is occurring. At such times, it is important to consider the appropriate use of the following strategies: 1. When stuck, talk about how it feels… set aside “the issue” for the moment.

2. Break the problem into more manageable elements.

Start with a “bite-able bite” that is also a shared concern… It probably feels overwhelming in its current form… build a sense of confidence.

3. When in doubt: RESTATE…RESTATE…RESTATE! Be sure the other person knows you are making reasonable efforts to understand his or her point of view.

By doing so, you greatly increased the likelihood that the other person will sense the integrity of your efforts, and respond positively.

4. Stay flexible - generate new options. Affirm the value of continuing to explore better responses when people feel trapped by their thinking.

5. Validate and affirm areas of agreement… these are frequently overlooked, as we have focused only on areas of disagreement!

6. Clarify criteria: On what basis are we evaluating the various options before us? Can we agree on criteria that are “mutually acceptable” to all, even if not fully shared by all?

7. Reaffirm the ground rules. Again, these are frequently overlooked at times of impasse, to our collective detriment.

8. Take a structured break, be sure people go to the break with “homework” to do.

9. Explore alternatives, this allows for an important reality check before determining not to negotiate further.

Build an Agreement that Works o Review “Hallmarks” of a Good Agreement o Implement and Evaluate - Live and Learn

As you come to the conclusion of the negotiation process, identify areas of agreement as clearly and specifically as possible, preferably in writing. Then review the agreement.

• Is it fair? Do all parties feel the agreement is fair and reasonable?

• Is the agreement balanced?

Does everyone have a stake and role in its implementation?

• Are the action steps realistic? Do we have the time, energy, skills and resources to follow-through and implement this agreement?

• Is the agreement specific enough to proceed?

Does everyone understand what we need to do and when we need to do it?

• To what degree is the agreement self-enforcing, or does it rely on others who were not present for the discussion? What do we do if others are unwilling to do things we hoped they would do in the agreement?

• Is the agreement future-oriented? In other words, have we considered what we will do if there are other problems or conflicts in the future?

It is often useful to build into the agreement an opportunity to “check back” with each other to evaluate progress towards implementation. In this way, any concerns about the agreement can be uncovered in a timely way, rather than waiting for problems to worsen.

Such a meeting also provides an opportunity to recognize your good work and progress together.

I always remember when an argument or disagreement comes up, and I hear these words time and time again when I find myself getting frustrated and at an impasse “Sometimes when you think you are arguing with an idiot, make sure they are not doing the same’.

Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre 1-888-495-8501 (Hours: Mon. - Fri - 8 am to 6 pm) www.antifraudcentre.ca did try to verify the alleged incident, but even that may not always be a wise move.

As the researchers at Colorado say: "We think this is something the public should be aware of to encourage cell carriers and standards bodies to correct this problem.

"In the meantime, people should probably still trust the emergency alerts they see on their phones."

Alert of the Week Have you thought of joining "Lowes Club"? Here's the thing: It doesn't exist.

But lots of people were lured into visiting a page supposedly set up on Facebook by the hardware store chain.

For a start, "Lowes" has an apostrophe -- "Lowe's" -which the supposed club didn't.

And if you'd clicked on Facebook's fairly new "Page Transparency" button on the page, you'd have discovered the page was only just established and there was no indication of who "owned" the page. In other words, highly suspect.

It's a good example of the value of using the page transparency feature on Facebook. There's often enough info there to raise your suspicions.

False emergency alerts can make people vacate homes or ignore genuine alarms: Internet Scambusters #885 Emergency alerts by phone or text are supposed to warn us of impending troubles or even disasters.

But it’s easy to fake these alerts to make people behave in a particular way, like vacating their homes or running from wherever they happen to be.

The motives for spoofing these alarms may vary, but the result could spell a different kind of disaster, as we report in this week’s issue.

Let’s get started… hat kind of emergency would make you run out of your home, perhaps without giving much thought to what you’re leaving behind, maybe not even locking the door?

How about a public alert warning of an impending disaster like a flood, tornado or earthquake?

If you felt worried enough for your own safety and that of your family, you’d maybe act before giving it a second thought. Like: Was that alert genuine?

You may think a fake alert seems a little far-fetched, but it isn’t.

Scammers are playing the panic card by phoning people and telling them there’s some kind of extreme weather or a quake due to strike at any moment and urging them to evacuate their homes. hey watch for their victims to leave home and then burglarize it.

For example, in Orange County, California, scammers have been phoning scores of people saying that an 8.4 quake was expected to strike imminently. An 8.4 is a doozy, enough to drive most residents out of their homes.

Of course, if you thought about it, scientists are not able to predict earthquakes, certainly not with sufficient timing to be able to fit in a phone call before it hits.

But there are other phenomena that could be more convincing — for example, if you lived in the vicinity of a forest fire or in an area susceptible to tsunamis.

Fake Texts A similar response has been shown to follow fake emergency text alerts.

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder recently discovered a vulnerability in LTE cell phone

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

If you have any comments, questions or suggestions please write me or email at littlebrownbear@bell. net we are now offering home visit for individual or couple’s counselling. For appointments please call.

(647) 964-3663.

For more information on weekend workshops please contact Diane Marshall from Directional Vision (416) 418-0962, or email her at directionalvision@gmail.com

The rest of this article and many more can be read in the police report at www.springwaternews.ca

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

Mayor Don’s Update

December 12, 2019 Holiday Events Most of the holiday preChristmas events have wrapped up for this year. Thank you to the Community Recreation Associations, committees, donators and volunteers that put on these great events each year. We hope you were able to celebrate the season with family, neighbours and friends.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Elmvale Bus Shelter It is finally here and just in time! Thank you to the Elmvale Lions Club for their donation to make this happen.

Midhurst Secondary Plan Environmental Assessment Resulting from the Part II Order requests, Springwater received correspondence from the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) indicating that additional individual environmental assessments would not be required for all of the projects proposed in the Midhurst Water, Wastewater & Transportation Class Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Midhurst Secondary Plan (MSP). The MECP has imposed eight conditions on the municipality with respect to the projects planned in the EA. In summary, the conditions outlined by the MECP require the Municipality to: • Prepare a plan to identify any species at risk that may be adversely affected by the work related to the undertakings in the EA. This plan is to be approved by the Director of Ministry’s Species at Risk Branch and is to be implemented by the Township prior to any work or construction activities; • Update the “Hine’s Emerald Dragonfly Habitat in the Minesing Wetland and Midhurst Development” memorandum with further information since it was written February 7, 2017; • Inform and consult with landowners that may be impacted by source water protection policies, as a result of new municipal wells. These discussions may include potential Risk Management Plans related to source water protection; and, • Prepare an Odour Mitigation Plan for the design and operation of any proposed wastewater facilities, which will be part of the Environmental Compliance Approval application. This plan will be available to the public on the Township website prior to any construction activities.

Prior to any construction, including site preparation works, all the conditions listed in the correspondence must be met.

In January, staff will meet with MECP representatives to discuss details of these conditions and will be reporting to Council to determine next steps.

Hillsdale Crossing Highway 93 and Albert Street in Hillsdale will receive much needed safety upgrades with the installation of signalization lights to assist people crossing the highway.

The crossing at this road has been an ongoing issue for many years.

Following repeated requests by the Township, the Ministry of Transportation (MOT) installed a Level 2, Type B Pedestrian Crossing at the intersection during the summer of 2017. While the crosswalk installed was an improvement, it creates further safety concerns due to the low visibility of the lights, which are especially difficult to see in bright sunlight. Residents feel that the crosswalk provides a false sense of security, as users proceed with less caution than they would without a crosswalk. We have had and continue to have special crossing guards to help children at the crossing during parts of school days.

Due to these problems, members of Council as well as residents met with the Honourable Doug Downey MPP to discuss their concerns and share stories of the extreme dangers of the existing crossing. In August 2019, Deputy Mayor Coughlin, CAO Schmidt and I, met with the Honourable Caroline Mulroney, Minister of Transportation to update her on the dangers and request a signalized intersection. In November, we finally received approval from Minister Mulroney and the MOT to proceed with a signalized intersection and Council approved the project at a meeting on November 27.

Thank you to the residents in Hillsdale who continued to fight for this by expressing your concerns, sharing your

Ontario Updating Property Forfeiture Laws to Ensure Crime Does Not Pay

Yesterday, Attorney General Doug Downey introduced the Smarter and Stronger Justice Act to simplify a complex and outdated justice system. If passed, the bill would modernize and improve the province's civil property forfeiture laws, among other changes.

Today in Ontario, the government can pursue the forfeiture of property connected to illegal activity and use it to compensate victims and fund grants to help police fight crime, including human trafficking and gang activities. The proposed changes would make the process easier by allowing personal property, such as cash or cars, used by criminals for illegal activities to be forfeited without a court order in cases where no interested person disputes the forfeiture. This change would relieve burdens on the police and the court system, while more proceeds of crime will be reinvested to support victims.

Protections will remain in place to ensure innocent people, including those who rent or lease their property, would not be adversely or unfairly affected by administrative forfeiture. Other proposed changes include simplifying the Civil Remedies Act to help improve program delivery, increase transparency and reflect best practices in other provinces.

Quick Facts • Since November 2003, a total of $63.2 million in property has been forfeited to the Crown. The province also has approximately $12.6 million in property that is frozen, pending completion of civil forfeiture proceedings.

• Ontario’s civil forfeiture laws allow the government to take the profits of illegal activity (e.g., a telemarketing scam, trafficking of drugs or guns, sexual exploitation or forced labour) and give it back to the victims of that crime or fund projects to support victims and prevent crime.

• Updating Ontario’s 2001 laws on property forfeiture would expand Ontario’s ability to take away the profits of illegal activity from criminals and re-establish the province as a national leader in deterring criminal activity.

• This year the Civil Remedies Grants Program provided $1.5 million to help police across Ontario fight human trafficking crimes such as sexual exploitation and forced labour as well as other illegal activities that fund gangs and put communities at risk.

• The Smarter and Stronger Justice Act proposes changes to more than 20 acts to update old laws and streamline processes so justice works better for Ontarians.

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stories and writing letters to ensure this moves forward.

The Township will work with the Ministry of Transportation on the design, with plans of having the lights installed by mid-2020. In the interim, please use the existing pedestrian crossing with extra caution.

Backyard Chickens The consultation for backyard chickens has wrapped up. We received almost 400 survey responses. Staff are analyzing the results and preparing a report for Council in the New Year.

2020 County of Simcoe Budget County of Simcoe Council approved a $530-million budget for 2020. Expenditures will be spent in the following areas: • Long Term Care and Seniors Services $71 million • Paramedic Services $58 million • Social Housing $59 million • Ontario Works $71 million • Transportation and Engineering $77 million • Solid Waste Management $49 million • Children and Community Services $60 million Residents will see an overall 2 per cent increase on the County portion of their municipal property taxes in 2020, an impact of approximately $5.58 per $100,000 of property assessment across the region.

In January 2020, the County will officially increase its ownership shares in the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport from 20 per cent to 90 per cent, and act on the long-term strategic plan to grow and expand the airport as a critical economic development asset for the entire region.

2020 Springwater Budget Council continues to pour over the Township 2020 budget looking for the most cost-efficient ways of delivering services and capital assets needed in Springwater. Council has met for four budget sessions and plan to finalize and approve the budget at its December 18th Council meeting.

More on this thereafter.

The comments above are my thoughts. Check out my recent radio interview reviewing current Springwater news items with Rock95 and 107.5 KOOL FM news director Dan Blakeley. See https://barrie360.com/springwaterupdate/ Contact me at don.allen@springwater.ca or 705-7284784 Ext. 2013 to set a time to meet or reach me directly at 705-302-4253. We can also stay connected on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @MayorDonAllen and review updates on www.donallen.ca

Page 15

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Hillsdale Highlights Alissa Shanahan

• Hillsdale Tree Lighting: Thank you, thank you, thank you! Thank you to all who made our 5th Annual Tree Lighting a success! A very special thank you to Katherine Hunter of Century 21 for providing all of the hot chocolate, to Tim and Kevin of Hillsdale Haulage for donating literally hundreds of Tim Bits, to Shanta at The Old Cornerstore for donating dozens of delicious butter tarts, to Mary Templeton for donating the ginormous candy canes for Santa to hand out, and to so many community members for donating baked goods and/or their time today! Thank you to Ms. MacInnis for leading the school choir, and to the very talented Riley for blessing us with her ukulele!

Thank you to Mayor Don Allen and his wife Wanda for coming; we greatly appreciate your ongoing support for our community!

• New Businesses! Hillsdale is just booming with new businesses lately! Welcome to Lagom Studio (3 Albert Street West), an art studio with pottery and art classes! Classes begin in the new year, and you can visit livinglagom.life and contact owner Cory-Lynn Styles for more information. I would also like to welcome Shawn and Pierre, the owners of the Hearth & Kin (the restaurant at The Old Cornerstore, 2 Mill Street East)! Stop on by to check out their new menu and try their delicious, home cooked food!

• Christmas Tree Sale: The Hillsdale Fire Fighter’s Association are still selling their Christmas trees on Saturdays and Sundays at the hall, from 10am-2pm. Get yours before they all run out!

• Hillsdale Community Recreation Association (CRA): The Hillsdale CRA meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at the hall at 7:00pm. There will not be a December or January meeting, so please note that the next meeting will be Wednesday, February 26th. Come out to have your input heard about our community, and get involved as much (or as little!) as you wish!

• On behalf of my husband Jason, and our kids Paige and Noah, I wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas, and best wishes for a fabulous 2020!

The “Hillsdale Highlights” is a community news update, so please feel free to contact me at alissa.shanahan@ hotmail.ca with any information you would like the community to know about! Follow the official Hillsdale Community Recreation Association on Facebook for details about upcoming events and social gatherings at “Hillsdale Community Group.”

The Language of the Hand High-fives, thumbs up and OK; we use a lot of hand gestures, but you may not know that there is an entire science devoted to studying these movements. In fact, the first modern book appeared more than 350 years ago. John Bulwer's Chirologia: Or the Natural Language of the Hand (1644) was a pioneering work on hand movements.

The "thumbs-up" sign means "good" to Westerners, "one" to Italians, "five" to Japanese, and "up yours" in Greece. In Iran, it represents a penis.

The "hang loose" sign (thumb and little finger extended) means, "stay cool, relax" in Hawaii, "six" in Japan, and "would you like a drink?" in Mexico.

Nodding the head means "yes" in most societies, but means "no" in some parts of Greece, Yugoslavia, Bulgaria, and Turkey.

An ear grasp means "I'm sorry" in parts of India. Cupping the ear means "I can't hear you" in all societies. Pulling the ear means "you are in my heart" for Navajo Indians.

Page 16 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca The sky’s the limit for Lake Simcoe Regional Airport First stop… New York City will maintain 10 per cent of shares.

Midhurst/November 27, 2019 – The County of Simcoe and City of Barrie hosted community partners today to celebrate the soaring potential of the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport (LSRA) and to learn more about a unique tourism opportunity coming to Simcoe County.

Starting January 2020, the County of Simcoe will acquire an increased ownership stake in the LSRA and together with the City of Barrie, the two municipalities will oversee growth and expansion at the airport. The County will make long-term investments towards elements of the LSRA strategic plan, which includes completing required studies, consultations, and approvals to expand the runway and support the development of a business park and infrastructure on the site, among other growth and job creation initiatives.

During the event, guests learned more about a new air charter service beginning in September 2020 that will allow residents to fly from Simcoe County to New York City. Details on the package, which includes return airfare and three nights’ accommodation, are available on CWT Vacations/Blowes & Stewart Travel Group Ltd. (formerly known as Carlson Wagonlit Travel) website at www. carlsonwagonlit.net.

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Quick Facts: • Overall airport site and lands of 595 acres (owned) • 15 fully serviced commercial development lots available • 200 acres of additional lands immediately available for commercial development • CBSA Commercial Port-of-Entry for passengers and freight • Cumulative 100,000 sq. ft. of commercial hangar space • Consistently in the top 5 busiest airports without control towers nationally according to Statistics Canada • Currently 11 businesses and companies based at the airport directly employing over 70 people • Phase 1 Strategic Plan Action items to occur in the next decade include: • Extend runway from the current 6,001 ft. (1,829 m) to 7,000 ft. (2,134 m) and widen the runway from the current 100 ft. (30 m) to 150 ft. (45 m) • Undertake Airport Certification and Registered Airport Zoning Protection • Enhance Electronic and Visual Aids including the installation of an approach lighting system • Undertake a Master Servicing Plan for un-serviced commercial development areas Winter Nobody • Enhance airport support will look services and related infrastructure Tire Sale • Prepare business development after onyou strategy To download the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport like we will!!!

NOW!!!

Strategic Plan - April 2018, go to https://simcoe.

Andy Lafreniere civicweb.net/document/45119.

New York City is the first stop as growth at the LSRA takes off. Attendees at the event learned that the sky is the limit as CWT Vacations/Blowes & Stewart Travel Group Ltd. and other tourism operators look to introduce further passenger flight opportunities out of the airport. LSRA is an attractive option due to its convenient location in Simcoe County, proximity to the GTA, size and border services opportunities.

LSRA is a member of the Southern Ontario Airport Network (SOAN). Brought together in 2015 and formalized in 2017, SOAN is a forum for 12 of the leading commercial airports in the region to work together, support growth and amplify the overall impact of air service. The investment in the expansion of LSRA will allow Simcoe County to help meet forecasted demands in air service across Southern Ontario and thereby increase the competitiveness of our region, province and country.

The County of Simcoe and Township of Oro-Medonte have each held 20 per cent of shares in the LSRA since 2014, with the City of Barrie being a 60 per cent shareholder. As of January 2020, the County will acquire an additional 70 per cent of shares and become the majority shareholder with 90 per cent stake, while the City of Barrie

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Rosie’s Devotions A New Chapter Begins

It has been over nine months since we moved into a two bedroom and a den apartment building. Our house finally sold, and now, another chapter in both my husband’s and my life has begun.

The view of the lake from our old house was gorgeous, but the view we now have, is even better. We live in a four story apartment building beside a marina. The view is even better than the one we left behind. We are greeted with the most amazing sunrises and watch the sailboats sailing away to wherever A walking trail is located just outside the building, and my husband and I have already walked more than we ever did when we lived at our old house.

Not having to look after a house and all that it entails, has been a great stress relief, and I noticed a change in my demeanour as well as my husband’s. I am more relaxed these days, and it seems that things are a lot better. There are still things that I have to take care of but they are not a struggle anymore.

I realize that our old way of life will never be the same, but knowing that God is with me, and has been, makes each day bearable, and rewarding at the same time.

Jeremiah 29:11-For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (NIV) Prayer: Thank you God, that you are with us, even though we may not realize it at the time. God knows all about our anxieties and heartbreaks and has a plan to give us hope and a future. Amen.

Rosemary Hagedorn, Midland, rosyhagedorn@gmail.com

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Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

WHAT TO DO WHEN THEY COME FOR YOU

• Call for support. Have an OLA contact list available • Be polite, Be Assertive, Stand Your Ground.

• Record your visitors with phone, recorder, video, notes etc.

• If police with visitor, address them first: Why are you here? Under what authority?

• If the Police refer to “Keeping the Peace”, ask the question … does that mean my Peace as well? Does this mean you intend to protect my rights as well?

• Record name, badge #, and headquarters. Get pictures of ID, license plates, vehicles etc. Request incident #.

• If there is a Warrant to Search, ask senior officer to read it aloud. Make sure that the Party who swore to the Warrant is present when the officer reads the Warrant. Assuming it is not the Police. For example, Conservation Authority has sword to the Warrant. It is important that everyone know and understand the limitations of the Warrant.

• Ask to see the Information to Obtain the warrant (ITO).

If there is no ITO, make a verbal note to all that there is no ITO and you Protest the Execution of the Warrant. Do Not Interfere with the Warrant. Argue it later in court. Everything must be accurate; name, address, Signatures etc. If anything is wrong, tell the officer you protest the Warrant.

That it is invalid for the following reasons. If the officer disagrees, argue it in court. Verbal disagreement with the Warrant is not in itself, blocking or interfering with the Execution of the Warrant.

• Only comply with what is on the warrant, offer no extra information and verbally protest the extra search. Argue it in court.

• If just an official; bylaw etc, ask for 2 pieces gov’t. issued ID, proof of employment, employee # confirmation phone #( business cards don’t count but keep one for later) They have NO authority without a warrant, ask them to leave. Ask them 3x then call 911. If they insist they have authority, make them show you. Remember Criminal code is Federal legislation and if no warrant they could be charged with trespass or mischief.

• Ask for insurance confirmation and sterile boots and clothing, You don’t know where they’ve been. Follow biosecurity measures.

• If they are there on a complaint, ask for the name and actual complaint as everyone is allowed to face their accuser. You might have to file a freedom of information request.

ALWAYS REMEMBER: • Don’t be intimidated by a uniform!

• Be firm. If you don’t stop them from walking on your property, it looks like implied consent.

• Document everything in writing when visit is over. Witness support would be an asset.

• When in doubt … Verbally Protest the Warrant or the Uninvited Access to your land. Do Not Physically Interfere in a Warrant or Inspection. The court is the place to be. Motion to Quash the Warrant. If the Motion succeeds, then the evidence gathered is thrown out.

• A Tort may be the next step after a Warrant is Quashed or an uninvited inspection.

• Record All Events while anyone is on your land. Keep your camera handy and the battery charged. The same with a cell phone. Add an additional SD card as well. More storage capacity. Film in low resolution for longer filming.

• Never answer a question. Anything you say will be used against you. Especially with body Cameras being used. There is no law compelling you to answer question.

However, You Can Ask All The Questions You Want. Ask Them on the record. *THIS IS INFORMATION ONLY, NOT LEGAL ADVICE*

ONTARIO ADOPTS NEW ANIMAL WELFARE MODEL

Ontario is introducing legislation to better protect animals from abuse and neglect by proposing the strongest penalties in Canada for offenders, and a more robust enforcement system.

“We made a commitment to take action and develop a modern animal welfare enforcement system to keep animals safe. I am proud to say we are delivering on that commitment with new legislation that includes the toughest penalties in Canada,” said Ontario’s Solicitor General.

“Ontarians can be confident the government is proposing a system that will better protect animals from negligent care.”

The proposed Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act, 2019 would improve animal welfare by: • Improving oversight and ensuring increased transparency and accountability, including establishing a one window complaints mechanism for the public; • Establishing a multi disciplinary advisory table made up of a wide range of experts, including veterinarians, agriculture representatives, academics, animal advocates and others to provide ongoing advice to the ministry to improve animal welfare; • Introducing new offences to combat activities such as dog fighting • Giving inspectors necessary powers to help animals in distress and to hold owners accountable • Giving government the ability to empower others, beyond inspectors, to take action when an animal is in imminent risk of serious injury or death when an animal is in imminent risk of serious injury or death when a pet is left in a hot car: and • Significantly increasing penalties for serious, repeat and corporate offenders. These new penalties would be the strongest in Canada As well as the proposed legislative changes, the system will be strengthened by hiring more provincial inspectors to ensure better coverage across the province, including specialists in livestock, agriculture, horses, zoos and aquariums. This made-in-Ontario model demonstrates that our government understands how significant the well being of animals is to the people of this province.

The proposed new animal welfare system was developed based on input from municipalities, police, industry, technical experts, veterinarian organizations, animal sheltering and advocacy organizations, and the public.

Minesing Central Public School

Lots of things are happening here at Minesing Central as we approach the holiday season. On December 4th we had our Merry Mustangs evening. As the snow fell, the crowds warmed up by the fire and were entertained by a number of enjoyable performances. There were amazing songs with ribbons, with plates, with elves and Santas, dances and so much more. What a fun evening!

We also had a visit this week from Frisbee Rob. According to his website, Frisbee Rob is a motiviational speaker and frisbee ambassador who holds many Guiness World Records and World Championships. He spent time with all of our classes showing us a variety of basic frisbee skills and tricks. The whole school also enjoyed his talk encouraging us to never give up and to try new things. Frisbee Rob attempted a difficult trick shot, getting a frisbee into the basketball net from the far end of the gymnasium. Although it took many attempts, he did make the shot and inspired us to demonstrate grit. Frisbee Rob also challenged us to set screen time limits and unplug at dinnertime and before going to bed. Thank you Frisbee Rob! Minesing’s 12 Days of Christmas Cheer is in full swing as well. Students have been asked to bring in nonperishable food items and toys to help local families in need. Currently, we have collected over 2000 items and hope to reach our goal of over 8000 items. Thank you to the Minesing families for your support of this cause.

At the end of November, we said goodbye or “adios” to our two Spanish exchange students, Diego and Ada. We enjoyed getting to know them and getting to know more about their country and culture. They will be missed.

We are looking forward to Summit Climbing next week. The whole school will be participating in activities including a Ninja Warrior obstacle course, Trust Hauls and climbing walls. There are also several spirit days coming up where students can “flex” their door-decorating skills, ugly sweaters and holiday hats.

We ho-ho-hope you have a wonderful Christmas and holiday season.

Max L. and Connor L. Minesing students

Page 17 Canadians for Language Fairness

from the Landwoner Voices Ontario Landowners Association <olanews@ontariolandowners.ca> We have been alerted by a keen reader of the French media that the French-speaking activists in Ontario are ready to launch new and excessive demands on the Ford government. If you can read French or use Google Translate, the link is: https://onfr.tfo.org/loi-sur-les-services-enfrancaisle-projet-de-loi-de-lafo-soumis-a-consultation/. If you want a copy of the translated article, please contact info@ languagefairness.ca.

The following is a summary of the proposals that were to be presented to the Ford government in late October: TORONTO - The Ontario Francophonie Assembly (AFO) has unveiled a comprehensive legal document that enshrines active offerings at the provincial level and gives increased powers to an independent French Language Services Commissioner. A public consultation aims to expand it. Here is what they want to do: 1. Change designated areas. The original law, French Language Services Act (1986) specified that only areas with 10% French-speakers need to provide bilingual services (there were 27 such areas). The improved law wants all of Ontario to be under the jurisdiction of the FLSA 2. Revise the Act each 10 years 3. Appoint an Independent Commissioner with increased powers, possibly a tribunal with sanction powers 4. Keep French Language Services coordinators in each department plus an advisory council 5. Revise the definition of “Francophone” to be more “inclusive” so as to include ALL French-speakers, not just those whose mother-tongue is French. That proportion, according to the 2016 census is only 3.69%.

This new definition will make them appear larger in number & need more services in French.

6. Active offer of service in both languages (the bonjour/Hi greeting that Quebec is trying to get rid of) with penalties for those who do not comply.

The proposals amount to imposing on Ontarians the same regime that the Official Languages Act forced on the Federal Government and its offices across Canada. The costs will be similar, but it will be paid by the 95% of Englishspeaking Ontarians. However, the social costs will be worse. It will deny employment to English-speaking Ontarians throughout the province.

We need to alert Ontarians about this Machiavellian conspiracy by Ontario francophone activists. We will require the help of volunteers, so we ask you to please contact us if you are able to help distribute information to your family & friends. We must show the Ford government that this is of great concern to large numbers of Ontarians.

We cannot accept more jobs being made bilingual imperative. This will affect the public and private sector as well because bilingualism will also be made mandatory in public tenders. Our young people are already having enough difficulty getting jobs. Adding more bilingual imperatives essentially disqualifies the 95% English-speakers. This effectively turns over control of the province to 3.69% of Ontarians. The English pay and the French rule!

Quebec has ensured that the English-speaking minority do not rule in that province. We do not suggest that Ontario should subjugate the French-speakers in any way, but we do need to ensure that their language activists do not succeed in subjugating the English-speakers with these new proposals. If you have any doubt about how destructive these proposals are, you need look no further than New Brunswick where “good will” led to an Official Bilingual policy–don’t let that happen in Ontario.

Bill 135, to increase the scope of the FLSA (1986), was presented by John Fraser – 1st reading on October 28th, 2019: https:// www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/ parliament-42/ session-1/bill-135 CLF is organizing a public card campaign – we need volunteers to help circulate the cards. For more information, please contact: info@languagefairness.ca

Eucalyptus is an incredibly useful tree; providing timber for building, cover and windbreaks in poor country, firewood, nectar for bees to produce honey, landscaping, pulp and even food; but probably one of the best known eucalyptus products is eucalyptus oil.

Eucalyptus oil is highly flammable and contains compounds that are natural disinfectants * Mix a quarter of a teaspoon or 15 drops of eucalyptus oil with and pest deterrents. It can be used around your home to replace many environmentally a teaspoon of vodka and 2 cups of water in a spray bottle to use harsh synthetic chemicals * Add a squirt of dishwashing liquid and a capful of 100 percent as a room air freshener. eucalyptus oil to a spray bottle full of water. Makes an excellent all-purpose surface cleaner. * Use the oil straight to remove paint, grease and ink from * Add 1-2 teaspoonfuls of eucalyptus oil to your load of washing for a fresh scent along clothes. with the anti-microbial benefits.

At a dinner party one should eat wisely but not too well, and * Half a teaspoon mixed with half quart of water makes a good bug repellent for plants. talk well but not too wisely. --W. Somerset Maugham

Page 18 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca LETTERS TO SIMCOE COUNTY FROM HONDURAN POLITICAL PRISONERS RAUL ALVAREZ & EDWIN ESPINAL To our supporters in Simcoe County, It has been almost 4 months since I was freed from the La Tolva maximum-security prison located in Morocelí, El Paraíso [Honduras]. Before I begin to express and share a bit about my situation, I want to thank all of the people, through the Springwater News via Karen and Janet Spring, that know about and follow our case. Thank you for your solidarity with the over 150 Honduran people that have been criminalized during the 2017 electoral crisis and the 23 people that were unjustly imprisoned.

Edwin, myself and others were held in maximumsecurity prisons that have been converted into torture centres for people that defend democracy and opposed illegal reelection in Honduras. Our Constitution specifically forbids reelection in the Republic of Honduras. Thank you to our Canadian community on behalf of Hondurans.

Since I got out of prison, my life has not been the same. It was 19 very difficult months in prison filled with so much uncertainty about what was going to happen to us. This had significant emotional and mental health consequences but also meant exhaustion and the deterioration of our health.

The ability for me to reincorporate or reintegrate myself into society after being in prison has been difficult because I have been denied the ability to find a job that will help sustain my family. The media in the country created a campaign to discredit all of the political prisoners in Honduras, indirectly calling them terrorists, criminals, or delinquents through the judiciary and the public prosecutor’s office. Both offices say that people that protest against the government are part of organized crime. In addition to the defamation campaign and a result of my arrest, my police background check shows that I have been arrested as a result of the accusations against me. This background check is a requirement to get a job in Honduras and many will not hire someone with a bad record even if we have not been found guilty. Because of this, it has been difficult to overcome the difficulties I am facing since getting out of prison.

When I walk through on the streets of Tegucigalpa and see police or military, I instantly get scared and feel complete mistrust. The police and the military are in charge of continuing the persecution against many of us that have been accused. They are responsible for creating ‘evidence’ and false accusations against us, particularly as we wait for our trials.

I frequently suffer from insomnia, stress and anxiety when I begin to think about my time in prison. I cannot sleep and get very nervous when I think about being sent back to prison and my trial that will take place in a few months. It’s important to mention that Edwin Espinal and I are not completely free until Honduran courts absolve us of all charges.

As our trial approaches in May 2020, we ask for you and the international community to be on alert. Don’t forget about us because in Honduras, human rights and due process are violated particularly in the cases of the political prisoners.

Thank you again and Merry Christmas from Tegucigalpa, Honduras on December 7, 2019.

Sincerely, Raúl Alvarez.

To Springwater News, Exactly 4 months ago today, December 9, 2019, I was freed from La Tolva prison. I want to send greetings, thank you and share with you, the residents of Elmvale and Simcoe County, my experiences with Raúl while we were imprisoned.

I didn’t know Raul when I got to La Tolva but I had heard about him one week before I was arrested when he was arrested by the Honduran police and charged with arson and property damage. I was in my house at that moment, at that time still free, and I had no idea that I would one week later be arrested as well. When I heard about Raúl’s arrest, I felt badly for him because I knew that he was being charged for demanding justice in our country. I thought briefly about visiting him in prison to give him support but one week later, it was my turn to be arrested.

Once I was arrested, I was sent before a judge in a military base and unjustly sent to La Tolva within one day.

I was being judged like I am a member of organized crime like the crime I committed was related to drug trafficking, criminal association, or money laundering and other high-impact crimes. Because of this, I was given pre-trial detention.

From the moment I arrived to La Tolva, I was treated very poorly. I was put into an isolation cell in my underwear. I was there for a long time but could hear Raúl from my cell sometimes when he talked. I did not know it was him at the time but I began to realize that it was the same person that had been arrested one week before me.

In the beginning I thought that being put into an isolation cell was the standard protocol before I was put in with the general population. After approximately 20 days passed, it did not turn out to be like that. I then realized that my treatment was distinct because I was a political prisoner

and that the orders to isolate me came from high-levels of the government. So I started to demand to the prison authorities that I wanted to be treated like the rest of the prisoners and I started banging on the door and yelling that I wanted to be taken out of the isolation cell.

Approximately one month later, I was put into the same cell as Raúl. We were still isolated but at least I had someone to talk to. That's where I really met Raúl because we had hours and hours to talk. We asked the Director of the prison why we were still isolated and not with the general population. We were told that it was for security reasons. But Raúl and I insisted that we did not want to be isolated, not just from the general population, but also from our families or any visitors. We could not continue in those conditions.

After various days of protesting inside the cell, the prison director gave into our demands and sent us to prison block (module) 3. The prison is divided into two areasminimum security which has 4 modules and another that is medium-security which has 4 modules as well. The latter is controlled by the M18, largest and most violent gang in Honduras. We were sent to the modules controlled by another large but less violent gang, the MS13. They are still very violent but they are more strategic in the ways they commit violent crimes.

Raúl and I were mixed in with the MS13 but separated into two different cells. We were told that we could not be together because we are dangerous together. That made us laugh because we are anything but dangerous especially surrounded by the people we were mixed in with.

In the first month, an epidemic of the cold began, fever, cough, and diarrhea, so we demanded medical attention and water. When we didn’t receive a response, we spearheaded a hunger strike, which lasted 5 days because we didn’t have the basic conditions like food, water, and on top of that, being sick, so were forced to suspend it.

But at least we were able to achieve that everyone got medications. We also gained respect amongst other prisoners who really became to understand that we were fighting for justice for all Hondurans, and because of that, were unjustly imprisoned as political prisoners.

There were many incidents of violence inside the prison when we were there. For example, the massacre inside module 1 in September 2018. We were walking back inside the prison to our module after seeing our families.

When we passed the doors of module 1, a fight broke out and prisoners began stabbing each other. Three people died in that riot and it was awful to witness it.

Many months passed and we started receiving threats from other prisoners because of the protests that were occurring in the streets of Honduras. As a result of the protests and blocked roads, family members of the prisoners could not come to visit and medical visits to the hospitals were cancelled so we were told that if the protests didn’t stop, we would be killed. With difficulty, we overcame those threats.

Through all these threats, Raúl and I frequently met to talk and discuss our security situation. Based on the information we received from our lawyer Prisila and Karen, we were able to coordinate ways to publicly and legally denounce the threats as well as strategies to get us out of there. Raúl and I played a lot of chess and I began seeing chess, a very strategic game, as an analogy to our situation and achieving our freedom under a dictatorship.

I actually did not know how to play chess before going to prison. Raul taught me and then we taught others and we started to pass the time by planning chess tournaments with other prisoners inside.

As Christmas approaches, I remember what it was like spending the holidays of 2018 in prison. It was very sad and we were under threats at that moment too. But we knew that 2019 would bring us hope. On the eve of the 25th when Hondurans celebrate Christmas, Raúl, myself and other prisoners stayed up really late playing soccer inside the tiny common area of the module. It was the only way we could keep our and others’ spirits up. After midnight, I broke a small watermelon into pieces that

Karen and my family had brought for me during the previous family visit and shared it with the people that stayed up with us. Even the smallest amount of food, especially something sweet, could help cheer people up.

After months of fighting to be transferred to another prison, we were finally told by prison authorities that we would never be transferred and that the orders to keep us in La Tolva came from high-levels of the government. In that moment, we felt defeated. But we continued to insist along with many people, like yourselves that supported our demands and made calls to the Canadian government and in Honduras, to demand through protest, that we be at least removed from the general population because of the new threats we had received.

We were then put into an improvised room but the conditions were awful. We felt more physically secure but the conditions were inhumane. After a month we realized that if we didn’t take action, the inhumane conditions would become the norm so we started another protest, another hunger strike to demand that we be transferred to another area with better conditions. This hunger strike was coordinated with a fast, organized by the Committee for the Freedom of Political Prisoners in front of the public prosecutor’s office in Tegucigalpa. It was an incredible coordinated action, which I came to understand once I was freed.

We finally received that transfer, thanks to the support in Honduras and in Canada and other places in the world, to another and more improved place inside the prison. A day later, we were informed that we had been conditionally released. There really are no words to describe that moment – disbelief, doubt, happiness … so many emotions.

When we walked out of La Tolva, we were met by Karen, Prisila, and family, who received us. It was an indescribable moment and we all hugged each other.

We could not have achieved it without all the people of Elmvale and Simcoe County, Ontario. I send you all my gratitude during this Christmas season for your efforts and actions that helped achieve our conditional release. Thank you!

Edwin Espinal from Tegucigalpa, Honduras, December 9, 2019

Taxpayer.com It is now official: the CTF has won intervener status to appear before the Supreme Court of Canada to fight the Trudeau carbon tax!

We need your help to make this huge opportunity count.

It’s a very good thing we got in. There are 21 groups intervening, including radical environmental and union groups who support the Trudeau carbon tax like the David Suzuki Foundation, Environmental Defence, Canadian Labour Congress and National Farmers Union. But the CTF is the only non-government entity opposing the tax!

We’ve known for a long time that no matter the outcomes in the lower courts, the legal fight was eventually going to make its way to the Supreme Court.

The court challenges in Saskatchewan and Ontario were both split decisions confirming that there are strong legal arguments against the Trudeau carbon tax.

In Ontario, one dissenting justice made clear that he thought the Trudeau carbon tax was an unconstitutional invasion of provincial powers, wondering whether it could open the door to Ottawa interfering in other inappropriate ways.

In Saskatchewan, the two dissenting justices even called the Trudeau carbon tax “constitutionally repugnant.”

All of which makes clear that the outcome at the Supreme Court will be a hard fought battle – one where we have a real chance of victory.

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

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S&P Global Ratings reaffirms the County of Simcoe’s AA credit rating Midhurst/December 3, 2019 – S&P Global Ratings has reaffirmed the County of Simcoe’s strong AA long-term issuer credit rating for 2019.

For the fifth consecutive year, the rating agency has affirmed an AA rating along with a stable outlook for the County of Simcoe based on its healthy budgetary performance with high operating balances, very low debt levels, and robust liquidity. S&P Global Ratings also notes that the County demonstrates political and managerial strength with a good degree of transparency and disclosure.

“Our latest S&P rating is another confirmation that the County operates prudently and efficiently,” said Warden George Cornell. “Our strong financial oversight and fiscal responsibility enable us to invest in our local communities, leverage opportunities to enhance service delivery and provide strong value to taxpayers and our municipal partners.”

The rating affirmation reflects S&P Global Ratings’ expectations that, throughout the two-year forecast horizon, the County will maintain robust liquidity, its aftercapital deficit will not surpass 5 per cent of total revenues, and tax-supported debt will remain well below 30 per cent of operating revenues.

The stable outlook reflects S&P’s expectations that the County will generate healthy operating surpluses, although large capital requirements will keep after-capital results in a slight deficit. S&P stated that they expect the County to keep managing its capital program prudently, with a strong reliance on pay-as-you-go financing, avoiding the need to issue new debt over the next two years. As a result, S&P expects the County's tax-supported debt ratio will decrease slowly to about 7 per cent of operating revenues in fiscal 2021. S&P also notes that the County’s liquidity remains strong. By its calculations, the County's average free cash and liquid assets will total approximately $70 million in the next 12 months and represent more than 22 times the estimated debt service. S&P expects this ratio to remain well above 100 per cent during the forecasted outlook.

About S&P Global Ratings With 26 offices around the world and a history that dates back more than 150 years, S&P Global Ratings provides high-quality market intelligence in the form of credit ratings, research, and thought leadership.

Council approves 2020 County of Simcoe Budget

Midhurst/December 4, 2019 – On December 4, 2019, County of Simcoe Council approved a $530-million budget for 2020, which foc uses on the resources necessary to maintain existing services and service levels in the region, while continuing to invest in County services and assets such as infrastructure, Transit, Paramedic Services, Roads and Engineering, Long Term Care, Children Services and Social Housing.

Economic development and job creation continue to be significant priorities for the County. In January 2020, the County will officially increase its ownership shares in the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport from 20 per cent to 90 per cent, and act on the long-term strategic plan to grow and expand the airport as a critical economic development asset for the entire region.

“The County is committed to a fiscally responsible approach to municipal services that helps enhance our vibrant communities and support our local residents and businesses,” said Warden George Cornell. “Our 2020 budget is built to maintain valuable health, community and social services, while making critical investments in infrastructure, capital projects and partner initiatives that address demands and growth in our region in 2020 and for years to come.”

Residents will see an overall 2 per cent increase on the County portion of their municipal property taxes in 2020, an impact of approximately $5.58 per $100,000 of property assessment across the region.

The County maintains a strong financial position having received, for the fifth year in a row, an AA long-term issuer credit rating from S&P Global Ratings, a provider of high-quality market intelligence in the form of credit ratings and research. The 2020 budget ensures the County continues along this path of long-term fiscal stability, and contains items that address areas of growth, as well as initiatives directed by Council to enhance and maintain service levels for the region, support infrastructure, increase efficiencies, and prepare for the future of our region.

2020 Budget Highlights include: Total County expenditure for 2020: $530 million: • Long Term Care and Seniors Services $71 million • Paramedic Services $58 million • Social Housing $59 million • Ontario Works $71 million • Transportation and Engineering $77 million • Solid Waste Management $49 million • Children and Community Services $60 million Attached to this news release is the 2020 County of Simcoe Budget Overview.

County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia.

Visit our website at simcoe.ca.

Page 19

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HOSPICE SIMCOE RESIDENCE CELEBRATES 10 YEARS Over 2,100 people have spent their final days and weeks with us since opening our doors 10 years ago this week.

Hospice Simcoe was founded in 1988 and opened our residential program in December of 2009. Last year, more than 800 people from across Simcoe County received support through our various programs, including 270 who received 24 hour nursing care at our 10 bed residence in Barrie.

“Over the past 10 years, I have been very fortunate to be a part of the Hospice Simcoe team and see how far we’ve come. We have grown from agency provided nursing to a highly skilled, compassionate clinical team. We have expanded from approximately 35 to over 200 dedicated volunteers. We have welcomed the addition of a Spiritual Care Coordinator and Facility Dog named Daisy to provide emotional and spiritual support. We are proud to have been the first Hospice to receive HPCO Residential Accreditation and continue to strive to meet those standards.

I continue to be amazed, humbled and grateful for the incredible dedication, compassion and generosity of our volunteers, staff and community supporters.”

- Kelly Hubbard, Executive Director, Hospice Simcoe We are grateful to the many members of our community that make donations to Hospice Simcoe each year, particularly during our November/December Annual Appeal. We are approaching the halfway point of our campaign goal for this year and appreciate your support.

This past year we have experienced an amazing year of accomplishments and expansion as we strive to meet the needs of the dying and bereaved in our community. We opened a second location at 130 Bell Farm Road, allowing our social worker and volunteer team to provide emotional, spiritual and psychosocial support to dying individuals and their families from the time of diagnosis through to bereavement.

All our programs and services - residential hospice, visiting hospice and bereavement support are provided at no cost. But, naturally, serving more people requires more financial resources. This year, our fundraising target is $1.3 million.

We need your help! Please donate today, to assist us in providing our programs and services to the dying and bereaved in Simcoe County. Give us a call at 705 722-5995, mail your cheque to Hospice Simcoe, 336 Penetanguishene Road, Barrie, L4M 7C2 or donate on line at www.hospicesimcoe.ca For the dying and the bereaved, Hospice Simcoe provides compassionate, expert care and services to ease the pain – before, during and after their journey.

Whenever you find that you are on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect. Mark Twain

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Page 20 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

Heaslip & Son Renovation & Handyman Services 705-361-9945 www.heaslipandson.com

Community Events can be called to - 322-2249

or e-mailed to - springwaternews@rogers.com Mon: Aphasia Communication Group - The Stroke Recovery Association (Barrie District). All sessions free 705-737-9202.

Mon: 9 am. Coffee Club and Art Group - 9:30 am Pool and 10 am Tiny Stitches The Place 300 Balm Beach Rd. Perkinsfield Mon: 10 to 11:30/7:30 to 9 p.m. Ladies Interdenominational Bible Study Willow Creek Church 2387 Gill Rd. 705-722-7582 Every Mon: 4:20/5:45 Drop in Yoga classes at the Villa Nursing Home Midland Yonge St. Donna Boudreau 795 427 0740 Mon: 1 p.m. Elmvale Community Hall, euchre/bid euchre Mon & Wed: 1 pm – 3 pm at the Penetanguishene Arena.

Seniors shuffle board 245-7611 for info. Register at town hall.

Mon 1-2:30 pm Midland Library Better Days Addiction Support Group with Chigamik Community Health Centre provides a non-judgmental space and explores strategies to assist individuals reduce or quit using alcohol and/or substances.

Simply drop-in! 526-4216 or kelly@midlandlibrary.com Mon: 7 pm Midland District Railroad Club at Huronia Airport - basement of white building 705-526-3461 Mon: 7:30 Bingo at Bayshore Seniors Club Woodland Beach for the months of July and August. Everyone Welcome Every Monday: MCC 8-10:30 FREE Midland Jams Plugged In 527 4420 www.midlandculturalcentre.com FB @Midland Jams Every Tues & Thurs year round 8:30-12 noon – Georgian Bay Heritage League meet in Perkinsfield behind Country Bath & Kitchen on Cty Rd 6. Join us to restore wooden boats built in this area. 705.526.5039. Facebook Georgian Bay Heritage League .

Tues: 9:30 Coffee Club - 12:30 Bid Euchre @ The Place Tues 1:30 pm Coldwater Legion Euchre, www.coldwaterlegion. com 705 686 3388 Branch 270@rogers.com Tues. 1:30-3:30 & 6:30-9:00 pm Adult Pickleball - $10 Homer Barrett Park, Elmvale Equipment provided For info contact: mamadaleno@hotmail.ca craddock.debbie@hotmail.com 3rd Tues: Elmvale Legion 2-4 pm Veteran’s Drop In Day. Tues: 5:30 Ages 4-8 and 6:30 ages 9-14. Art Classes Creative Madness Art Studio 705 322 6588 Elmvale First Tuesday: 6.30 – 8.30 PM Georgian Bay Coin and Stamp Club North Simcoe Sport/Recreation Centre. 705-534-3771 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month: Elmvale District Lions Club dinner and General Meeting, 7 pm at Lions Hall Flos Conc 7. New members welcome. 705-734-4350 Tues: 7 pm Bid Euchre Bayshore Seniors Club Woodland Beach.

1st Tues: 7 pm Elmvale Legion General Meeting 322 1042 Tues: 7:30 pm: Bid Euchre and darts Barrie Legion Last Tuesday of the month 10-11 am The Von Smart Healthy Aging Education Series. Come Join us, it’s free.

Oct 29 Ways to stay safe and independent. Nov 26 Health and Community Considerations, Dec 17 Sleep Jan 28 Keeping a healthy brain, and February 25th Paying attention to Keep Safe Wed: 9 am Coffee Club - 10 am Pool - 12:30 pm Games Afternoon 2nd Wed: 1:30 pm Camera Club Georgian Bay Swinging Seniors “The Place” 300 Balm Beach Road Every Wed morning 10 am Spirit Café for a time of fellowship and conversation. All welcome. St John’s United Church.

First Wed/Month: Regular meeting of the Georgian Bay Métis Council at 355 Cranston Cres. Midland 526-6335 Wed: CHAIR YOGA 10:00 - 11:00 am. Gentle exercises with soothing music. Georgian Shores Swinging Seniors 300 Balm Beach Road West 705 526 5074 Wed: 12-1:00 Lunch, $8 at Barrie Legion. 728-1412 Every Wed: 1 pm Bridge at Bayshore Senior Citizens’ 2000 Tiny Beaches Rd S Woodland Beach Wed: 1 pm Royal Canadian Legion Elmvale District 262 Legion Seniors (55+). Table Shuffleboard and social.

First & Third Wed 7 - 9 PM Progressive Euchre: Join us for a fun filled evening at St Paul’s Anglican Church, 5 Noraline Ave. Midhurst Everyone is welcome!

2nd Wed: 7 pm LA General Meeting Elmvale Legion.

2nd and last Wed: 7 - 8:30 pm.- Wasaga Cancer Support group meetings open to all cancer survivors, caregivers and family members at Body‘n Balance Physiotherapy (705) 429 - 9619.

Wed. 7:30 pm Fun darts at Coldwater Legion Wed: 7:30 pm Cribbage at Barrie Legion.

4th Wed: 7:30 pm Horticultural Society meets Elmvale Legion Thurs: 9 am Coffee Club- 10-3 p.m. Tiny Stitchers, The Place Perkinsfield, 526-5074 2nd Thursday each month 9:30 - noon PROBUS (Professional Business) club consisting of people 55 plus meet at the Wasaga Stars arena for coffee, a business meeting and a guest speaker.

Probus is a non fund-raising organization.

Every Third Thurs 10 am -noon - Barrie Kempenfelt Probus

959 Marshall Rd Wyebridge ON Ph - 705-526-0563 Just north of Mertz Sideroad on Marshall Rd. Mon- Fri 8:30 - 5:00 Saturday 9:00 - 5:00 Sunday & Holidays Closed

Give the Gift of Local This Holiday Season Spread Joy with All the Good Things Grown and Made in Ontario

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We pick up scrap cars, trucks and metals.

Call 705-527-9534

TORONTO - The upcoming holiday season is a great time to celebrate with friends and family. Shopping local for Ontario-grown and produced food, beverages and other goods can simplify your preparations and supports local businesses and farmers across the province.

As people prepare to celebrate, Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, is encouraging everyone to choose local Ontario foods, beverages and products as a part of their festivities.

"When you celebrate this holiday season, I encourage you to support hardworking Ontario farmers by choosing Ontario grown and made food for your family, friends and all your loved ones," said Hardeman. "Giving the gift of local this holiday supports our farmers, our producers and our economy."

It's easy to infuse your holiday plans with locally grown and made food and beverages. A few fun ideas include: • Shopping for local turkey, prime rib and vegetables at a farmers' market, on-farm markets, butcher shops and grocery stores • Decorating your home with fresh, seasonal greenery and flowers • Picking up delicious treats like Ontario maple syrup and honey for easy hosting gifts • Meeting with friends at restaurants dedicated to local fare • Celebrating responsibly with Ontario craft beer, cider and VQA wines • Indulging with locally made delectable treats like Ferrero Rocher or local baked goods.

Foodland Ontario has the latest recipes and entertaining tips on to celebrate the holiday season. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook to find your family's new favourite holiday recipe.

Quick Facts • Ontario produces approximately 200 different commodities across the province. To know what fresh fruits and vegetables are at peak freshness, visit Foodland Ontario’s availability guide.

• Ontario-grown Christmas trees are another way you can buy local this season. Visit a Christmas Tree Farm and choose a spruce, pine or fir to bring home this holiday season.

Ken Archer Painting

Over 25 years experience painting & wallpapering

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Club meets at the Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 147, 410 St. Vincent Street – Barrie Ontario – (Entrance on Ferris Lane) 3rd Thurs: Free Community Breakfast at All Saints Anglican Church Hall 1 Peel St. Penetanguishene 549 2223 3rd Thurs: 10 am - noon - The raging grannies meet at Woods Park retirement facility 110 Lillian Cres. in Barrie. 322-1575 4th Thurs: 1-3 Nottawasaga Bay Stroke Recovery meet at 135, 32nd St. Wasaga Beach Guests speakers 429-9571 Thurs: Shuffleboard at 1 pm at the Coldwater Legion Every Thurs: 1:30 pm Darts at Bayshore Senior Citizens’ 2000 Tiny Beaches Rd S Woodland Beach 4th Thurs: 1:30 pm Diabetes support group meets at the Health and Wellness Center at Penetang General Hospital 549-0881 4th Thurs: 3-5 pm Parkinson’s support group meetings at the Superstore Midland 526-9170.

Third Thurs: 6.30– 8.30 PM Georgian Bay Coin and Stamp Club meets at the Prime Time Club, 1724 Mosley Street, Wasaga Beach. 705-429-4948 3rd Thurs 5:15 Elmvale BIA meet in Elmvale Library Thurs: 7 - 10 pm Good Vibes Coffeehouse at Mount St. Louis Road and 4th of Oro-Medonte Thurs: 7 pm Bid Euchre at the Georgian Shores Swinging Seniors Centre, 526-5074 Thurs: 7 pm - Elmvale Com Hall Euchre/Bid Euchre Lunch.

Thurs: Darts at 7:30 pm at the Coldwater Legion Fri June 14 to Sept 27 9 am - 2 pm Springwater Elmvale Farmers Market at the Community Hall.

Fri: 9:30 a.m. Coffee Club - 9:30 Pool, 12:30 p.m. Bridge – Includes Coffee/Tea/Cookies Georgian Shores Swinging Seniors “The Place”, Perkinsfield, 705-526-5074 Every Friday 1:30 pm Shuffleboard at Bayshore Senior Citizens’ 2000 Tiny Beaches Rd. S Woodland Beach Fri: 5:30 pm WB Lions Bingo at RecPlex 429-3331 Fri: 6 pm Steak Darts at Coldwater Legion Every Sat during summer 1-4 pm - Music in the Elmvale Gateway park except July 20 Sat: 3 pm Meat Darts BBQ at Legion, Branch 147, Barrie, Sat: 5:00 Meat Darts Elmvale Legion. 322-1042 Welcome!

Sun: 9:45 am Knox Flos Presbyterian Church Services Sun: 10 am - St. John’s United Church welcomes you for worship. 27 Yonge St. S, Elmvale. www.unitedchurchelmvale. org Sun: 11 am Christian Science Society Church services at 159 Collier St. Barrie

Tigers are the largest cats on Earth. They can weigh up to 720 pounds and stretch 6 feet long. While not quite as tall as a male lion, a male tiger is heavier and longer.

A tiger's back legs are longer than its front legs, which makes it a running, jumping, and pouncing machine.

Tigers have over 100 stripes, which helps the tiger blend DAILY EVENTS - All on the website at in with long grass. Like fingerprints, no two tigers have www.springwaternews.ca with greater information. the same pattern.

Dec 13 6-8 pm Phelpston Sleigh Ride and Food & Toy Tigers can run as fast as 35 mph, but only for short Drive distances. Most of their prey can outrun them, especially Dec 14 Yuk Yuk’s www.petersplayers.com deer and antelope.

Dec 14 3-5 Coldwater Legion Fundraising Meatroll.

A tiger can eat nearly 1/5 of its body weight in one mealCome out and have a chance to win your dinner for $1.00 about 88 pounds. In one year, an adult male tiger can eat Tues Dec 24 7:30 pm Unity United Church 4967 Vasey up to 8,000 pounds of meat. th Road at the 4 Line North Bring your family and friends Tigers have killed more people than either lions or and join us at Unity on Christmas Eve for a candle-lit leopards. During the 19th century, tigers may have killed evening of wonder and joy as we celebrate Jesus’ birth hundreds of thousands of people. together!

The Sundarbans swamp forest on the border of India Dec 31. from 9-1. Coldwater Legion New Years Eve and Bangladesh is the tiger-attack capital of the world.

(Potluck) Entertainment by Len Murphy Approximately 600 Bengal tigers live there, and they kill Tues, Dec 31st - 9 pm to 1 am ELMVALE LEGION up to 100 people each year.

BRANCH#262 PRESENTS “ NEW YEARS DANCE Because tigers usually attack their prey from the side or “ Doors open 8:30 pm Live Band - “DEJA VU” rear, some people living in rural India wear masks on the $25.00 Champagne at midnight Light lunch Door prize back of their heads.

“Designated drivers available” Bring your dancing shoes Over the past one hundred years, over 95 percent of the & a friend Everyone welcome tiger population has disappeared, leaving just 5 Jan 1 2-6 Coldwater Legion New Years Levee. Moose For a Cooked Eggnog Recipe alternative: Milk, Food and Live Entertainment by Even Steven.

4 large pasteurized eggs Feb 28 Gowan with band www.petersplayers.com 1/3 cup granulated sugar Feb. 29-March 8 The 2020 edition of the Canadian 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Men’s Curling Championship — by far the most famous 1/8 teaspoon salt national curling championship on the planet — will be 4 cups played at the Leon’s Centre in Kingston — almost exactly 1/2 cup heavy cream 12 months from now.

July 3-5 Mariposa Folk Festival with 60 artists (one Heat the milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it is about 115-120 degrees F. In 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 of them John 1 another bowl, use a hand mixer to beat P O S H T N T E G O Prine) on 10 11 12 13 together the eggs for 1-2 minutes or until plus stages A R I A R E S M O P they are lemon in color. Scoop 3/4 cup July 18 Big 14 15 16 of the heated milk and pour it slowly D E N Y U S A P O T into the eggs, whisking constantly. This 17 18 19 is called tempering the eggs. Now pour D E S T R O Y the egg/milk mixture slowly into the 20 21 22 23 24 25 B O N N E T S U R G E heated milk, whisking constantly. Add the sugar, nutmeg and salt. Heat over 26 27 28 29 E M U L E I T E A M medium-low heat, whisking constantly, 30 31 32 33 34 until the temperature reaches 160 N I T S E L K A L I degrees F. This is a safe temperature 35 36 37 38 for the eggs. Chill the eggnog before E T H O S L I N N E T drinking which will also thicken as it 39 40 cools.

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Dairy, Beef, Poultry, Swine, Sheep, Rabbit, Equine rations and Bird seed.

ORGANIC FEED AVAILABLE!

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It came without ribbons.

It came without tags.

It came without packages, boxes or bags.

Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store.

Maybe Christmas means a little bit more.

Page 21 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653 Lynn-Stone Funeral Homes Inc.

Obituary

BUCHANAN, Clarine Margaret - Passed away peacefully at Hospice Simcoe, Barrie, on Friday, December 6, 2019 in her 81st year. Beloved wife of the late Eric Buchanan. Much loved mother of Karen (Brian and the late Glenn) Locke, Kim (Brian) Nelson and Chris (Corrine) all of Elmvale. Cherished 'gram' and 'nan' to Spencer (Laura), Emily, Taylor, Brooke, Hannah and Evan. Lovingly remembered by her brother Cleon (Dale) Carruthers, nieces, nephews and extended family. Predeceased by brother Lorne Carruthers.

Clarine is a former member of Rebekah Lodge and a long time volunteer with Friends of Sara Vista.

Visitation was held at Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, Elmvale, on Monday, December 9th from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. Funeral Service was in the chapel on Tuesday December 10th at 11 am.

Spring interment at Elmvale Cemetery.

If desired, memorial donations to Royal Victoria Hospital Foundation (ICU) or Hospice Simcoe would be appreciated by the family.

Messages of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com DOAN, Myrna Louise - Long time member of Elmvale Lioness Club Passed away peacefully at Georgian Bay General Hospital, Midland, on Tuesday, December 3, 2019. Myrna Doan of Elmvale, in her 72 year, loved wife of Keith Doan. Cherished mother of Mark, Katie-Lynn (Rob), James and Robert (Patricia). Proud grandmother of Justin, Lauren, Alexis and Michael.

Lovingly remembered by her sisters Bonnie (Peter) and Isabel (the late Bill), nieces and nephews and extended family. Myrna is predeceased by her parents Wilbert and Doreen Jarick and siblings Arnold and Reta (survived

by Roger).

Friends called at the Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, Elmvale on Friday, December 6th from 2 to 4 pm and 7 to 9 pm. Funeral Service was in the chapel on Saturday at 3 pm.

Spring interment at Allenwood Cemetery.

If desired, memorial donations to RVH Cancer Care Centre or Elmvale Food Bank would be appreciated by the family.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com McPhail, Doreen Elizabeth - On 27 November 2019, Doreen Edith McPhail (nee Kennedy) RN, passed away at home with her husband Garry of 53 years by her side. She was the loving mother of Jonathan (Nadine) of Gatineau, QC and Alexander (Tracy) of Bluewater, Tiny Township, ON. Doreen was the proud Nana to Camillia and Aidan. She is survived by her sister Ruth of Clinton, ON. Spring interment at Sudbury Civic Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at Camp, her favourite place, in the spring of 2020. Memorial donations can be made to the Simcoe Muskoka Cancer Centre (c/o the RVH Foundation, 201 Georgian Drive, Barrie, ON, L4M 6M2) or online at http://foundation. rvh.on.ca Messages of condolence will be received by leclaircremationcentre.ca De-gunk dirty sneakers with a vinegar and baking soda solution.

If the wet, messy weather has left your sneakers caked in mud, just mix 1 Tbs. of water, 2 Tbs. of white vinegar and 2 Tbs. of baking soda then spread the mix on your shoes with an old toothbrush. The mixture hardens as it dries, making it easy for you to brush off, taking all that mud and grime with it.

Tompkins & Heels Monuments Ltd. For Quality & Craftsmanship Since 1932

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161 Essa Road Barrie ON L4N 3L2 www.tompkinsandheels.com

Lynn-Stone Funeral Homes Inc. 15 Yonge St S., Elmvale 15 Yonge St. S., Elmvale 705-322-2732 705-322-2732 www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com

Tel: 705-728-7749 1-800-465-9900 Fax: 705-728-6149

Mon - Fri 9 - 5 • Sat 9 - 1 pm Evenings available by appointment

Obituary It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin Charles Merritt, owner A.M.P. Cycle in Midland Ont, on November 30, 2019 at the age of 63.

Kevin is survived by his beloved soulmate and wife of more than 40 years, Piper. Loving father of Levi, and Shilo Kelly (Tim). Adored Pa to Ty and Tia. Much loved son of the late Burt and Jeanne Merritt, dear brother to Scott (Tina) and Melodie (Leo). Uncle to Richard, Austin, Michael, Chloë, John, Wesley and Samantha.

Kevin was born and raised in Richmond Hill and moved to the Midland area in 1977. He worked at Midland Cycle until opening A.M.P. Cycle in 1982. Since that time, Kevin has touched so many with his kindness, sense of humour, integrity and his lifelong passion for motorcycles.

With many of his family and friends by his side, Kevin passed away at home after a hard fought battle with pancreatic cancer. Throughout his illness, Kevin never lost his ability to make those around him laugh.

A celebration of Kevin’s life will be held at the Midland Curling Club on May 23/2020. Those who can, please ride in as a tribute to Kevin. More details will be posted in early May. In Kevin’s memory, and his long time support of Community Living Huronia Foundation, donations to this cause would be greatly appreciated.

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; All that we deeply love becomes part of us.” Helen Keller.

MORGAN, GERALD ROY - 37+ years Toronto EMS Passed away surrounded by his loving family at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 in his 78th year. Gerald Morgan of Phelpston, cherished husband of Lorraine (nee Cooke).

Much loved father of Jill Morgan of Windsor and Ben Morgan of Phelpston. Dear brother of June (the late Dr. Ralph) Shaw, Grant Morgan and Reg (Georgia) Morgan. Predeceased by his parents Jack and Mary Morgan. Fondly remembered by his in-laws, nieces and nephews.

Gerald enjoyed competing in the Ontario Truck Driving Championships for over 40 years and won many awards in that time. He also volunteered as a float driver in the Toronto Santa Claus Parade for many years.

A Graveside Service was held on Saturday, November 23, 2019 at the St. Patricks Cemetery in Phelpston.

In lieu of flowers, the family hopes that you would consider a donation to Sick Kids Foundation or The Lung Association in memory of Gerald.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com

In Memoriam

As this year marks the 75th anniversary of the campaign by the Canadian army to liberate Italy, we remember Private George MacNutt.

A native of Craighurst and member of the Perth Regiment, he was killed on Oct.4 1944, and is buried at Ravenna cemetery in Italy.

There is a memorial plaque in his memory at St. Johns Church Craighurst, and the 1st line of Oro-Medonte north of the Horseshoe Valley Road is named in his honour.

The family farm was located on this road.

We will continue to remember his sacrifice for Canada and freedom.

Neil Craig Gilbert Moreau Dec 11, 1938-August 6, 2016 No longer by our side, but forever in our hearts.

Love Diane & Family The year 1961 is readable forward, backward, and upside down. What is the next year when this will occur?

Unless medical technology increases very rapidly, none of us will be around to see this numerical palindrome when it happens again in 6009.

We Offer Basic Cremation Services as well as

We Offer BasicTraditional Cremations Services as well as Funerals.

Funerals.

AgentTraditional for Sanderson Monument Co.

Obituary Agent for Sanderson Monument Co. O’Neill, Elizabeth Julia - Passed away at Amica at Barrie on Sunday, December 8, 2019 at the age of 92.

Predeceased by her loved siblings Mary King, Margaret Stone, Irene Therrien, William, Bernard, John, Edward, Patrick, Paul and Leo O’Neill. Cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews. Friends and relatives were received at ADAMS FUNERAL HOME 445 St. Vincent Street on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Parish Prayers followed at 8:45 p.m. Funeral Mass was at St. Mary’s Catholic Church 65 Amelia Street, Barrie on Thursday, December 12, 2019 at 10 o’clock a.m. Spring interment St. Patrick’s Catholic Cemetery, Phelpston. Memorial donations to a church of your choice would be appreciated by the family.

Messages of condolence may be forwarded through adamsfuneralhome.ca RANCE, Anne - Passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Thursday, November 28, 2019.

Anne Rance of Elmvale in her 71st year. Daughter of the late Lorne and Viola Rance. Dear sister of Larry (Eleanor) of Elmvale, Rob (Marg) of Waterloo and Debbie (Dennis) of Elmvale. . Loved aunt of Shirley Naczynski, Lindsay (Corey) Egan, Laura (Jordan) Carson, and Craig Rance. Proud great aunt of Ronan, Chase, and Caden.

Visitation was at Lynn-Stone Funeral Home from 12 -1 on Saturday, December 7. Celebration of Life at 1 pm. Memorial donations to Arthritis or Cancer Society.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com SHEREMETO, Ken - Passed away suddenly, surrounded by family, at Georgian Bay General Hospital, Midland, on Saturday, November 30, 2019, in his 73rd year. Son of the late Anne and John Sheremeto of Toronto. Loving husband for 51 years to Mary Lou Sheremeto (nee DesRochers). Cherished by his daughters Beverley Sheremeto (Rob Nagle) and Jennifer Sheremeto (Terry Grasby) and admired by his step granddaughter Paige Grasby (Blaze Coulson).

Beloved brother of Catherine (Steve Kemley) and Paul Sheremeto (Debbie). Ken will be missed by his nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Ken shared many laughs and great times with his in-laws and friends. He had a unique sense of humour.

Ken was an avid snowmobiler and enjoyed boating around Orr Lake. Retired from Nortel after 33 years.

Ken and Mary travelled extensively into various parts of North America. In his early years Ken enjoyed playing baseball in Elmvale and curling at the Elmvale Curling Club. He was also a proud member of the Hillsdale Lions Club. Ken loved his cars and could be seen with his '55 Chevy around Orr Lake for many years.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation or the Elmvale Curling Club would be appreciated by the family and will be accepted at Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, Elmvale.

Messages of sympathy may be sent to www.lynnstonefuneralhome.com

In Memoriam LUCK, George - April 3, 1936-December 25, 2009 In loving memory of a dear husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather who passed away ten years ago.

We miss you in so many ways.

We miss the things you used to say.

And when old times we do recall, It’s then we miss you most of all.

Remembered always by Donna and family.

Old friends are gold! New friends are diamond! If you get a diamond, don't forget the gold!. Because to hold a diamond, you always need a base of gold!

Page 22 Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca Working with Ontario Farmers to Improve Soil Health and Water Quality your community online auction centre

UPCOMING AUCTIONS Jewellery, Coins, Stamps & More Auction, Guelph - Dec. 15-19 St. Nick’s Picks Multi Consignor Auction ,Guelph - Dec. 15-19 January Multi Consignor Auction, Guelph - Jan. 19-23 Dalziel Estate Auction, Simcoe - Feb. 16-20

Full auction listings & information at rapid-sell.ca No computer? No problem.

Call our office at 705-722-6217 A Division of David Moore & Associates Inc. Auctions & Appraisals 705-722-6217

Minister Hardeman Discusses Farm Animal Safety and Ontario's Food Supply LONDON - November 29 - Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs hosted a roundtable with rural municipal leaders along with provincial livestock transporters to discuss the risks and dangers of interference with animal transportation as well as farmer and food safety risks surrounding on-farm trespass to farmers and farm businesses.

Trespassing on farms and other agri-food premises poses risks to the safety of farmers, employees, their families, animal welfare and public health. Trespassers can unknowingly expose animals to stress and disease - and compromise our food safety by introducing contaminants in the food supply system.

"Farmers feed people, and we all know supporting their efforts to produce high quality, safe foods is important for Ontario. That's why we need to protect farmers, agri-food businesses, farm animals, and our food supply," said Hardeman. "I want to thank everyone who joined me today to talk about the importance of further safeguarding Ontario's farmers and agriculture industry." "Ontario consumers also have the right to expect their government is ensuring our food supply is safe, including protecting it from unlawful interference and contamination," he said.

The Minister requested this roundtable with industry and municipalities to gain further insights on the impact of trespass on farmers, food processing and transport businesses across the province.

"ROMA supports measures that protect rural communities and Ontario's food security," said Allan Thompson, Chair of Rural Ontario Municipalities Association. "Trespass activities on private farm properties can pose a risk to safety and biosecurity, and need to be regulated. Municipalities are responsible for policing, public health and public safety and will benefit from new tools to help keep our communities safe."

"Farmers face unique risk because home and work are often the same place," said Hardeman. "While people have the right to participate in legal protests, this does not include trespassing on farms or interfering with the transportation of livestock or processing facilities. Everyone has the right to a safe workplace, and in the case of our farmers, a safe home."

Quick Facts • A number of municipalities and farm animal transportation organizations were represented at the London roundtable including The Township of Warwick, Norfolk County, Municipality of Clarington and the Township of Greater Napanee.

• This was one of several roundtable discussions held by Minister Hardeman over the fall to better understand industry concerns about on-farm trespassing and interference with food processing and farm animal transportation.

• Over 30 municipalities across the province have passed or supported council resolutions that call on the government to strengthen protections for farmers and these targeted operations.

Sassafras tea is made from the roots of the sassafras tree. After the roots are dug, the outer layer of bark is scraped off and they are washed. Then they are chopped and boiled in water. For a gallon of tea, boil about 4 average-sized roots in a gallon of water for 15-20 minutes.

The longer they are boiled, the stronger the tea. Strain the tea and serve it either hot or iced. Sassafras tea was considered a spring tonic by mountain people.

To mark this year's World Soil Day, the governments of Canada and Ontario are launching a $5.75 million, multiyear project to help the province's farmers strengthen environmental stewardship, enhance water quality, improve soil health, and better protect our environment.

The On-Farm Applied Research and Monitoring (ONFARM) project will support a host of new activities to be carried out with farmers and other partners to make our agri-food sector greener and more competitive. Funded by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership), ONFARM will build on environmental stewardship achievements in the agricultural sector by: • Developing a comprehensive, science-based method to measure soil health in Ontario.

• Measuring the effectiveness and impact of agricultural best management practices aimed at reducing nutrient run-off on farms.

• Working with farmers to gain evidence and awareness of how to improve productivity, soil health and water quality.

• Establishing applied research and monitoring sites to facilitate peer-to-peer knowledge transfer and capacity-building among industry professionals.

"Canadian farmers are responsible stewards of the land, and our Government is working side-by-side with them to improve soil and water quality and take action against climate change." said the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. "These new initiatives will help farmers ensure the environmental sustainability of their farms for generations to come."

"On World Soil Day, we recognize the vital importance of water quality and soil health for farmers today and in the future," said the Honourable Ernie Hardeman, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. "Through the ONFARM project, we'll help farmers continue their environmental stewardship efforts and work to grow their businesses sustainably."

The Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) will deliver the programming for the governments through to the end of the Partnership in 2023.

ONFARM will build on other environmental protection initiatives supported by the Partnership and delivered by the OSCIA, such as the Environmental Farm Plan and the Lake Erie Agriculture Demonstrating Sustainability initiative.

ONFARM also supports and leverages other related actions with industry targeting improved soil health, such as the 4R Nutrient Stewardship program and the pending work of the Ontario Soil Action Group. The project will also support the Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan.

"OSCIA is very excited to be part of this long-term soil health and water quality research project," said Les Nichols, President of OSCIA. "We applaud plans for a coordinated network of sites across the province that will involve farmers in project development and management decisions. It's a terrific example of the seek-test-adopt philosophy that guides our on-farm applied research efforts."

Quick Facts • The Partnership is a five-year, $3-billion commitment by federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada's agri-food and agri-products sectors.

• ONFARM is a four-year project that will see investments of up to $5.75 million over the life of the Partnership.

• Since June 2018, both the federal and provincial governments have committed cost-share support to approximately 2,500 projects through the Partnership to help eligible Ontario farmers, processors, businesses and sector organizations innovate and grow.

• ONFARM will be delivered by the OSCIA. For more details contact the OSCIA about ONFARM at: 1-800-265-9751.

• The United Nations designated December 5 as World Soil Day to raise awareness of the decline of soil health throughout the world and the steps that can be taken to build soil health and associated benefits.

Merry Christmas at Midhurst CN

FOR YOU. FOR LESS.

201 Cundles Road East, Barrie Store hours: Mon. – Sat. 8 am to 9 pm Sun. 9 am to 6 pm

GIANT TIGER, TIGRE GÉANT, TIGER HEAD DESIGNS AND OTHER TRADEMARKS IN THIS AD ARE REGISTERED AND UNREGISTERED CANADIAN TRADEMARKS OF GIANT TIGER STORES LIMITED AND ARE LICENSED TO ITS FRANCHISEES.

Ontario Puts Teeth Into Animal Welfare System TORONTO — Today, Ontario passed legislation that will better protect animals from abuse and neglect by implementing the first provincial government-based animal welfare enforcement system. Once in force, Ontario will have the strongest penalties in Canada for people who violate the new law.

The new system comes into force on January 1, 2020 and will improve animal welfare across the province by: Implementing a new enforcement model, including provincial inspectors to provide province-wide coverage, and inspectors with specialized expertise in livestock, zoos, aquariums and equines • Updating prohibitions and obligations, such as barring the return of dog fighting equipment to a person convicted of an offence as well as increasing penalties for offences • Enabling inspectors to enter motor vehicles to help pets in critical distress in extreme weather conditions • Establishing new oversight provisions of inspectors that offer increased transparency and accountability, as well as a one-window complaints mechanism for the public • Establishing a multi-disciplinary advisory table made up of a wide range of experts, including veterinarians, agriculture representatives, academics, animal advocates and others to provide ongoing advice to the ministry.

This new animal welfare system was developed based on input from municipalities, police, industry, technical experts, veterinarian organizations, advocacy organizations, and the public. The government will continue to work with partners to ensure the best protection and support for animals.

Quick Facts • Concerns about animal distress or abuse can be reported to the Ontario Animal Protection Call Centre at 1-833-9-ANIMAL (264625).

• Nearly 17,000 people responded to a public survey earlier this year asking how animal welfare in Ontario could be improved.

• After more than 100 years enforcing the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) Act, the OSPCA stopped providing enforcement services as of June 28, 2019.

• In June, the government passed the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) Amendment Act (Interim Period), 2019, a temporary measure to keep animals safe during the transition to the new animal welfare model.

Merry Christmas at Midhurst CN

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • Phone 705.322.2249 Cell: 705.321.2653

Announcements

Christmas Celebrations for Roman Catholic Community

Dec. 20 – Day of Confession – following morning Mass until 10 a.m. and 7-7:30 p.m. - St. Patrick’s Phelpston Dec. 21/22 – regular weekend schedule Dec. 24 – 6:30 p.m. “Vigil Mass” – Our Lady of Lourdes Elmvale -11 p.m. Christmas carol singing; 11:30 p.m.

“Mass During the Night” – St. Patrick’s Phelpston Dec. 25 – 9 a.m. “Mass at Dawn” – St. Patrick’s Phelpston Dec. 28/29 – regular weekend schedule Dec. 31 – 5 p.m. – Our Lady of Lourdes Elmvale Jan. 1 – 9:30 a.m. St. Patrick’s Phelpston Jan. 3 – 9 a.m. Mass – Our Lady of Lourdes Elmvale Jan. 4 – 9 a.m. Mass – St. Patrick’s Chapel Phelpston

Santa Claus Tour Elmvale/Phelpston The Elmvale Flos Fire Fighters Association will be hosting a Santa Tour on

December 23rd • 6:30 to 7:30 Elmvale and Phelpston

ELMVALE LEGION BRANCH#262 PRESENTS

"NEW YEARS DANCE"

Tuesday, Dec 31st - 9 pm to 1 am Live Band - “DEJA VU” $25 Champagne at midnight • Light lunch • Door prize “Designated drivers available” Call 705 984 2800 or 705 433 3422 for a pick up ordrop off!!!

Bring your dancing shoes & a friend Everyone welcome

Friends of the Simcoe County Museum present Victorian Christmas December 12 and 13, 2019 Minesing/December 5, 2019 – Discover the magic of an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas at the Simcoe County Museum on December 12 and 13, 2019 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Listen to festive holiday music and embrace the Christmas spirit as you sample traditional Victorian Christmas goodies, and experience what Christmas looked like during the Victorian era. Deliver your letter to Father Christmas and hum along with the hammered dulcimer or the bell ringer choir. Check a few names off your Christmas list as you shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and food items from artisans. Buy tickets for Rudolph’s Raffle, and enjoy a show on our antique Magic Lantern. Warm up with a cup of delicious hot chocolate while strolling the lanternlit pathways. Listen to sleigh bells and feel the crisp winter air on your face as a horse-drawn wagon takes you on a journey through our beautiful forest. Victorian Christmas has so much to enjoy that it would even get Scrooge into the holiday spirit!

Once again, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services will be onsite to collect toys, food, cash and gift cards for local children and families. Guests can also support Barrie and District Christmas Cheer by purchasing a charming handmade bowl from the Empty Bowls program.

Admission to Victorian Christmas is by monetary donation with proceeds going to the Friends of the Simcoe County Museum. The Friends of the Simcoe County Museum support the programs and services offered by the museum through the proceeds raised from this event, as well as other initiatives that occur during the year.

Christmas Day Turkey Dinner

Once again Elmvale Presbyterian Church will be hosting the annual turkey dinner with all the trimmings.

You are invited to come and join with us at 12 noon Christmas Day in celebration of the true spirit of the season.

If you had, or are yet to have, your Christmas celebration or are without family, please consider coming to celebrate in the company of others in fellowship around a festive table.

• All ages are welcome. We have elevator access.

• All you are required to bring is your appetite.

• Please RSVP by December 18th to Elizabeth 705-322-2695 or Mary 705-322-2806 Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that also kills bacteria in your mouth. Many commercial whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, unfortunately, there aren't any studies to show the effects of rinsing or brushing with hydrogen peroxide alone, but several studies have found that a toothpaste containing baking soda and 1% hydrogen peroxide led to significantly whiter teeth. While diluted concentrations appear safe, strong concentrations or overuse can cause gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.

Where did the expression "lock, stock, and barrel" originate, and what does it mean? owadays, the phrase means "the whole thing." It originated from the listing of the parts constituting a flintlock rifle.

S&J Barn Demolition

We pay cash for barns wsib insured For a free estimate Call 1 800-291-2276

CHRISTMAS HAMPERS The Elmvale & District Food Bank will be a busy place next week as Volunteers prepare Christmas Hampers to be distributed on December 20th.

During the holiday season the Food Bank is very busy with the various food drives, parades, craft shows and other community activities held throughout the Township.

Generally, the Christmas Season is when the bulk of food is collected to stock the shelves for the upcoming year.

At this time of the year we give a special shout out to the Elmvale Minor Hockey. Various teams have volunteered their time to move food for the Food Bank. It is greatly appreciated Also, thank you to Springwater Fire Station #5 for collecting food at the annual Santa Claus Parade and then carrying it upstairs after. Hopefully the stairs will be a thing of the past at this time next year!!

Check out our Facebook page to find out items needed at the Food Bank.

We have a number of families with teenagers. We try to give each teenager a gift certificate. This year Gift Certificate Trees are at Whitfield Guardian Pharmacy and Steelers Restaurant & Pub. We thank both businesses for their continued support of the Food Bank. We encourage you to drop in and place a Gift Certificate on one of the trees! We have approximately 20 teenagers this year so the Community help in this regard is very much appreciated.

The Elmvale & District Food Bank is now a registered charity. Donations can be sent to 35 Queen Street West, Unit B, Elmvale, ON L0L 1P0. A tax receipt will be forwarded to you for tax purposes.

Everyone deserves a Christmas and with the wonderful support of Springwater Communities, organizations and individuals the Foodbank is able to provide hampers filled with a variety of foods and gifts.

Start your kids’ New Years by spending time outdoors

Christmas Bird Count for Kids and Winter Camp Tiffin returns to the Tiffin Centre for Conservation UTOPIA, Ontario (December 5, 2019) – The Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) is hosting two outdoor events for kids this coming new year – Christmas Bird Count for Kids (CBC for Kids) and Winter Camp Tiffin.

This is a special year for CBC for Kids because it’s taking place at the same time as Winter Camp Tiffin. Kids who want to attend both events can sign up for Winter Camp Tiffin, and will participate in the bird count with camp councillors.

“Exploring nature in the winter is a unique experience, “said Naomi Saunders, Manager of Environmental Education at NVCA. “Kids get to encounter nature in our coldest season, which for some is a new experience.

This broadens their curiosity about the natural world and deepens their connection to it.”

CBC for Kids is on January 3rd, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

It is a family-friendly citizen science event that provides families with the opportunity to learn about local bird populations in the winter. Volunteers from Nature Barrie will show participants how to use binoculars and how to identify the birds they may encounter on the trails at Tiffin Conservation Area.

Winter Camp Tiffin is on January 2-3, 2020, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Activities include forest exploration, animal tracking, shelter building, winter games and kick sledding.

Winter appropriate clothing, including waterproof boots and gloves are a must. Registration fee for each camper is $90 for two days, or $45 for one day. Extended care is available from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for $10 per day.

For more information about these programs, or to volunteer for CBC for Kids, visit nvca.on.ca.

For Sale / Wanted

Page 23

Downsizing? • Estate Sales?

Cash for older items - cds and records • old metal toys and signs • china and crystal • vintage gold and sterling silver • jewellery • knives and forks • military items • plus other old oddities.

Call Peter 705-322-3484

For rent (WANTED) - apt., houses, and halls Elmvale: 1 Bedroom Apartment $1100.00/ month - All inclusive.

Fridge and Stove. Credit Checks will be done.

Call: 705-527-4772 Elmvale: Ground lavel/walk-in 1 Bedroom Apartment - Great for handicapper $1100.00/ month plus utilities Fridge and Stove. laundry hook up - walk in shower Call: 705-527-4772

Weddings, Anniversary Parties, & Birthdays

Orr Lake Golf Club is now renting out its hall for weddings, anniversary parties & birthdays. Seating for up to 175 people. Dancing for up to 200 people. Basic setup, cleanup, in-stock utensils/dishes/linens, and bartender included in rental fee. Catering done fresh in house.

Call 705-322-1664, email: info@orrlakegolfclub.ca. c Web Site: www.orrlakegolfclub.com Elmvale Lions Club Hall – Country setting. No bar license worries…we do it all and at reasonable prices!

Outdoor smoking area; Horseshoe pits; Full kitchen.

Ideal for family celebrations; Buck and Does; Birthday Parties; fundraising events; business meetings etc.

Call Bob 705-322-4484

Elmvale Legion Banquet Hall. 100% Accessible.

Specializing in weddings, all types of parties, business functions and community service groups.

We can accommodate up to 125 dinner guests.

Catering is available through the branch.

Excellent parking. Call 705-322-1042 for a quotation.

Elmvale Community Hall - capacity 220 for great dances, beautiful weddings and other super events.

Stage and kitchen facilities.

For rental call 728-4784 ext. 2036 or 2063

3571 Penetanguishene Road, Craighurst, ON L4M 4Y8

705-737-1300

www.WhistleStopPetShop.com • pam@WhistleStopPetShop.com

GBGH selected for Yale University research study on emotional intelligence November 26, 2019 – Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) has been selected by the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA), in collaboration with the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence (YCEI), to participate in an original research project addressing staff engagement, burnout and emotional intelligence.

“GBGH was selected for the project due to its focus on organizational transformation and becoming a just culture, learning organization,” says Annie Tobias, vice president, Learning & Engagement, OHA. “The successful implementation of a hospital strategy, and the delivery of quality care to patients and their families, succeeds or fails because of people. As emotional intelligence improves, so do job satisfaction and subsequently performance. In a hospital setting, that translates to an improvement in patient care.”

Emotional intelligence is the ability to understand emotions (reasoning with and about emotions), as well as be perceptive about emotions in others. It is crucial to appreciating how emotions impact team members daily, in every decision they make. In the case of hospitals, emotional intelligence is relevant to recognizing when burnout, anxiety, stress and frustration in teams and individuals can compromise patient care.

The research will primarily be conducted via a confidential online survey asking respondents questions broadly pertaining to all hospitals participating in the study as well as specific questions. From the research, GBGH will achieve a more precise understanding of underlying currents in its culture related to emotional intelligence.

GBGH is focused on investing in and engaging with our people – our staff and credentialed staff – to improve their work life experience and enhance patient care,” says Gail Hunt, president and CEO, GBGH. “At GBGH we are focusing on the health and well-being of our people, and the potential to better our organizational culture. With a clear understanding, the hospital can improve engagement initiatives and strengthen workplace culture.”

Page 24

Springwater News • Dec. 12, 2019 • Edition 562 • E-mail: springwaternews@rogers.com • www.springwaternews.ca

November 2019 - Update on the Midhurst Secondary Plan (MSP).

What is the Midhurst Secondary Plan? The Midhurst has been opposed by the Province (until November 2012), Secondary Plan is a developer-sponsored proposal adopt- the County of Simcoe (until October 2011), the Midhurst ed by Springwater Council in November 2008. Its goal is Ratepayer's Association (ongoing) and 1,476 Midhurst to build 10,000 homes in Midhurst. residents (pop. 3,500) who personally signed a petition Where would these homes be built? against the MSP. Additionally, MRA’s petition on change.

See "Schedule A" below. All homes would be built on org has garnered almost 50,000 signatures. Time after productive agricultural lands. time, however, the various levels of government have Recent Events buckled under constant pressure from developer lobbying.

September 2018 With Ontario's population growing by 100,000+ every The Midhurst Ratepayers' Association (MRA) submitted year, we support the need for more housing. However, this a Part II Order request to the Minister of the Environment must be balanced by the need to protect the farms that feed to review the Environmental Study Report (ESR) prepared us, and the environment and financial sustainability which for the Ministry by the Township's development consul- support our quality of life. tant, Ainley and Associates Limited.

We believe that building 10,000 houses on Class 1 (A Part II Order request "bumps up" the scrutiny of an and Class 2 farmland in an area with no industry, with a ESR to the Minister, asking for additional studies or a new questionable supply of drinking water for such enormous Individual Environmental Assessment customised for the growth - 3,500 residents become 30,000 residents - and particular project. Springwater had only prepared a ge- endangering the world-renowned and very fragile Mineneric Municipal Class Environmental Assessment report). sing Wetlands is not the best choice. The Province's own January 2019 Growth Plan agrees.

MRA submitted supplementary information to their Part II According to the provincial staff and their consultants Order. (See all MRA submission under the Part II Order tab). and also NGOs who study population growth and densiNovember 20, 2019 ties, there is plenty of alternative land available in southMinister Yurek of the Ministry of the Environment, ern Ontario to accommodate the province's growth expecConservation and Parks (MECP) rendered his decision tations for at least 20 years. In fact, the provincial Growth on the 5 Part II Orders he’d received, including MRA’s. Plan of 2006 provided for the protection of farms while He immediately sent notification letters to the MRA and also providing sufficient land to accommodate growth.

Springwater Township detailing his decision and what he Unfortunately, it seems that developments in Ontario are requires from an environmental standpoint before the MSP governed more by developer speculation than by governNovember Planor(MSP). can proceed. 2019 - Update on the Midhurst Secondary ment planning market demand.

His decision does not affect the remaining 150 condiIf you are concerned about the direction Midhurst is taktions ordered by the OMB in October 2014 as their Condi- ing or the property taxes you will pay in every corner of tions of Approval. They, too, must be satisfied before the Springwater should the plan go through, please contact What is the Midhurst Secondary Plan? mega-development can go ahead. One major condition is your local municipal councillor, Deputy Mayor and Mayor The Midhurst Secondary is a developer-sponsored proposal adopted by Springwater the Township’s agreement thatPlan the proposed megadevel- and the MRA. Council November 2008.for ItsSpringwater. goal is to You build homes in Midhurst. opment isinfinancially sustainable can10,000 Council contact information is available at www.springread Minister Yurek’s letters here. water.ca Background Links to MRA are provided under Contact Us. You can Where would these homes be built?

Over the past 11 years, the Midhurst Secondary Plan also follow us on Facebook @SaveMidhurstVillage.

Turnview Farm Honey What’s all the buzz about?

We are a full service apiary selling honey bees, beekeeping equipment, honey, beeswax, pollen, etc.

We also teach beekeeping courses every spring.

Registration now open. See website for details Paul and Emily Turner turnviewfarmhoney.com 6424 Hwy 93, Waverley 705-627-3378

Ontario Saves over $25 Million on Travel, Meals and Hospitality

TORONTO — The Ontario government continues to deliver on its commitment to create a culture that respects taxpayer dollars and spends smarter by saving over $25 million on travel, meals and hospitality, ensuring that government spending is directed to core programs and services.

As a result of the restrictions put in place by the Ontario government in June 2018 — which included non-essential travel and expenses such as meals — spending on travel, meals and hospitality has declined to its lowest level in a decade. Year-over-year highlights from 2017-18 to 201819 include reduced spending on accommodations by $9 million and air travel by $7 million, as well as reduced spending on hospitality by $1 million.

"Our government is committed to building a smarter government that manages taxpayer dollars effectively and efficiently," said Peter Bethlenfalvy, President of the Treasury Board. "Families know the importance of managing expenses when you're on a tight household budget and government should apply that same discipline to its own spending."

Other smarter spending as a result of the restrictions include: • Saving over $77,000 since mid-2018 by cancelling catering for Cabinet and committee meetings.

• Saving approximately $40,000 within a single program area by using video conferencing rather than attending frequent meetings in-person.

• Cutting catering costs during lock-up on Budget Day in half, by ending the practice of elaborate, catered lunches for attendees and instead providing a pizza lunch.

Today Bethlenfalvy also announced that the government has updated its rules around travel, meal and hospitality expenses to enhance oversight and accountability and modernize practices. Changes include: • Ensuring the best price by specifying "lowest fare available" for air and rail travel, rather than "economy" or "coach."

• Providing more cost-effective options for road travel.

• Encouraging savings by asking people to consider accommodations outside of pricier downtown areas.

• Updating and modernizing the rules by accepting e-receipts or scanned receipts instead of requiring printed receipts.

These restrictions on travel, meals and hospitality, along with the updated rules, align with the building smarter government plan recently announced by Minister Bethlenfalvy. Together, these large-scale transformative projects, called Smart Initiatives, will streamline and improve services, fix inefficiencies, spend smarter and improve how government operates.

Quick Facts • The government has updated its rules around YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Launches GivingTuesday Campaign to Encourage See "Schedule A" below.

All homes would be built on productive agricultural lands. travel, meal and hospitality expenses to continue to Spending With a Purpose Global day of giving took place on December 3 promote a culture of fiscal responsibility, accountabilBarrie, Ontario – – The YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is the generosity of our community. A charitable donation ity and transparency. took part in GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that to the Y helps a child go to camp, connects families to • There are three sets of rules: harnessesEvents the collective power of individuals, communities YMCA programs and services, inspires people to lead Recent • The Travel, Meal and Hospitality Expenses Diand organizations to encourage philanthropy and to healthier lives, and allows the Y to develop supports for rective applies to employees and appointees in miniscelebrate generosity worldwide. On December 3, the our most vulnerable populations. By giving to the Y, you September 2018 tries, provincial agencies and two hydro organizations YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka asked the community to make are building a healthier community for all,” says Brian (the Independent Electricity System Operator and Ona pledge to help build healthy communities by making a Shelley, Vice President, YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka. tario Power Generation Inc.), as well as consultants Just as Black Friday kicks off the holiday season,of charitable donation or by spreading the organization’s The Midhurst Ratepayers' Association (MRA) submitted a Part II Order request to shopping the Minister and contractors to ministries and provincial agencies.

GivingTuesday is the opening day of the giving season. message through social media. the Environment to review the Environmental Study Report (ESR) prepared for the Ministry by • The Allowable Expense Rules apply to cabinet In its sixth year in Canada, GivingTuesday continues to Beginning on GivingTuesday and throughout the month the Township's development consultant, Ainley and Associates Limited. ministers, opposition leaders, parliamentary assisof December, the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka is asking the gain traction across the country, with thousands of partner tants, and their respective staff. question “What Would You Give” to help build a healthier organizations and millions of Canadians expected to • The Broader Public Sector (BPS) Expenses Di(A Part II Order request "bumps up" the scrutiny anpart, ESR to the Minister, for additional take supporting the causesasking they believe in and the community?

Last year, with the help of community donors, of rective applies to designated BPS organizations as set communities in which they live.particular project. the YMCA studies or of a Simcoe/Muskoka new Individualsupported: Environmental Assessment customised for the out in the Broader Public Sector Accountability Act, year, 1 in 5 YMCA Assessment members received support • Over 2,200 children and youth develop outdoor Springwater had only prepared a generic Municipal“Last Class Environmental report).

2010. and social skills, make friends and have fun in a safe through the YMCA’s financial assistance program, ensuring To make a gift or to learn more about how to get environment by attending YMCA day and overnight that access to the Y is affordable for those facing financial barriers,” said Shelley. “Thank you in advance to everyone involved, please visit www.GiveToTheY.ca. Share stories camps.

• Over 5,000 children who received quality who supports the Y's efforts to build a healthy community and join the GivingTuesday conversation on social media by visiting the YMCA of Simcoe/Muskoka Facebook page child care through the YMCA’s 80 licenced child care on GivingTuesday – your donation is changing lives.”

This year, donations to the Y on GivingTuesday can or follow @YMCASM on Twitter and Instagram using facilities.

• Over 27,000 members of the community get be designated to the YMCA in general or to any of the #GivingTuesdayCA and #YMCASM. About GivingTuesday (#GivingTuesdayCA) healthy by joining their local YMCA health and fitness following community initiative funds: GivingTuesday is a movement to celebrate giving of all • Capital Campaign for the new Barrie Y centre, where they benefited from customized programs, • Capital Campaign to support the redevelopment kinds, celebrated on the Tuesday after Black Friday and recovered from illness or injury, and connected with Cyber Monday; this year it fell on December 3rd, 2019. of YMCA Geneva Park others in their community.

• YMCA Camp Kitchikewana's Endowment Fund The movement was launched in Canada in 2013 by GIV3 • Over 1,700 immigrants receive English language • Support the Y's international partnership with the and CanadaHelps.org, and founded in the US in 2012 by training and YMCA settlement services.

92nd Street Y in partnership with the UN Foundation.

YMCA of Sierra Leone “The work that the Y does is very much dependent on