The Creemore
Echo
Friday, February 23, 2018 Vol. 18 No. 8 www.creemore.com News and views in and around Creemore
inside the echo
Home Sense
Bikes and Brews
PAGE 3
PAGE 7
CARA supports Alliance Homes changes
Register for Turas Mor
Publications Mail Agreement # 40024973
Community rallies to support fire victims by Trina Berlo The community of Horning’s Mills is coming together to support long-time residents John and Doreen Sipple, as they get back on their feet after a fire destroyed their home. The fire broke out in the early morning hours of Feb. 11, but luckily circumstances had kept the Sipples up late that night and they were able to get out safely before the fire, said to be caused by a short circuit in the wiring, spread quickly through the house. Neighbour and friend Jocelyn Burke set up an online fundraiser to help raise some money for the couple, who she describes as the sweetest, kindest people you could ever hope to meet, while they go through the process of accessing their insurance and getting into a rental. “There is always a long time while you are waiting for the possibility to rebuild, or that comes from living in a temporary situation,” said Burke. “They are hoping to stay in Horning’s Mills so we just want to do whatever we can to help them make that possible and, at the same time, enjoy that feeling of support, of all the neighbours coming together.” Burke said she happened to be coming home late that night and found
Contributed photo
John and Doreen Sipple, pictured at last yearʼs Chili cook-off in Mulmur. the house on fire and the road blocked by fire trucks but she was relieved to see the Sipples had made it out safely. “We opened up the hall for them, and the firefighters, to warm up through the night. Another neighbour brought coffee and granola bars, going until about nine
in the morning when they were getting the fire under control and it was almost out,” said Burke. Their unique century home, where they had lived for almost 30 years and built overtop of a river, and all of their possessions, were destroyed.
In addition to collecting monetary donations, members of the community are collecting food and some basic items for the couple, who have taken up temporary residence at a neighbour’s home. (See “Benefit” on page 3)
Flood watch in effect Heavy rainfall and warm temperatures caused the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) this week to issue warnings of high potential for ice jams and flooding. Clearview public works crews were out working to clear ice jams and ensure water was flowing properly, in order to minimize flooding. Fire crews were on scene and ready to rescue three Don Ross Drive residents when the Nottawasaga River came within five metres of their home. The residents were found to be in no immediate danger and decided not to evacuate.
The NVCA warns, hazardous conditions may exist around all bodies of water, as there is a high risk of lifethreatening injury if a person falls into the extremely cold water. The public and especially children are advised to stay away from all bodies of water. T h e N o t t a w a s a g a Va l l e y Conservation Authority continues to monitor river and stream conditions and will issue additional messages as conditions warrant. For additional information, please call 705-424-1479 and select option “1” for the flood information line or check our website at www.nvca.on.ca.
Staff photo: Trina Berlo
Colleen Stamp and granddaughter Bella check out the river. More photos on page 12.
Taking care of buyers and sellers in Mulmur and the Creemore hills for over 40 years
RCR Realty. Brokerage
Ginny MacEachern
B.A., Broker
The Town & Country Agent with the City Connections 1-800-360-5821• 705-466-2607 • maceachern.ginny@gmail.com www.ginnymaceachern.com