February 5, 2021 by The Creemore Echo

The Creemore

ECHO

Friday, February 5, 2021 Vol. 21 No. 06

www.creemore.com

News and views in and around Creemore

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Public meeting connects ski club, community by Trina Berlo More than 70 people participated in a virtual public meeting about the proposed development at Mansfield Ski Club Wednesday. The meeting was hosted by Mulmur Township council and staff as a courtesy to the community in response to growing opposition to a proposed development project that is meant to ensure the vitality of the private ski club, and to meet the needs of current and future members. “It was our intention that this meeting would allay some of the fears, clarify information and make sure that you have the questions that were burning for you answered in an open forum,” said Mulmur Mayor Janet Horner at the close of the two-hour meeting. “We will… work carefully with Mansfield Ski Club to make sure that this project will not be passed until all requirements are satisfied.” Speaking on behalf of Mansfield Ski Club, Finley McEwen was allotted time at the top of the meeting to make an introduction. “Residential development has been permitted on the site and in the area

Mulmur Mayor Janet Horner opens a public meeting Wednesday connecting Mansfield Ski Club officials with more than 70 members of the public in attendance who wanted to find out more about a proposed accommodation development at the base of the ski hill. for decades. About 150 homes have been built around the club since it was founded in 1962. Much development happens without site plan approval. The club’s application is going through site plan so it may appear different or incremental but at 93 units it’s obviously smaller scale than the

existing 150 and it’s less impactful than the future non site plan density that’s approved for the area,” said McEwen. He said it occupies far less land and is subject to more environmental study than development that is not subject to site plan approval. “Incorrect information has been

widely broadcast about the application. Inaccurate statements or petitions with misleading information may get attention and they might be a call to action but they don’t help people’s understanding of the facts,” said McEwen… “Ultimately truth matters and science based approach will govern.” He said there are three main components to the application: a snowmaking pond, a 25-metre elevation change to top of the hill to meet international slalom course standards, and a cluster of residences. It is the latter that drew the most comments and questions from people participating in the public meeting, specifically about how the leases will work and how the development will impact the Pine River. McEwen said the snow-making pond will not impact the watercourse, there will be no change to drainage and minimize impact on existing trees. He said the cluster of accommodation, which they hope to build in the parking lot area, is designed to preserve open space and encourage pedestrian (See “Units” on page 3)

Students head back to school once again Elementary and secondary school students in Simcoe-Muskoka District Health Unit will have the option of returning to school on Monday, Feb. 8 “Following the best medical advice, with the clear support of both Ontario’s and the local Medical Officers of Health, we are reopening schools across the province knowing that we have taken additional steps and made additional investments to better protect our students and staff,” said Minister Stephen Lecce. “Nothing is more important than returning kids to school safely because it is crucial for their development, mental health, and future success.”

Lecce said Wednesday that if class sizes are to be capped at 15 more hiring will be necessary and hiring is already underway to make up for a large shortfall of teachers, a situation that is exacerbated by an already high absentee rates. He said the provincial government is already committed to the hiring of 3,400 teachers (with an additional 890 projected to be hired). The strategy includes temporary certification of eligible teacher candidates who are set to graduate in 2021 to stabilize staffing levels, following high levels of absenteeism, the hiring of over 500 principals, vice-principals and admin

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staff to support new virtual schools; and the hiring of up to 650 educational assistants, mental health workers and professionals to provide special education and mental health supports. In an effort to keep everyone in schools safe, the province is supporting the hiring of 1,400 custodians (with an additional 400 projected to be hired); and over 23,000 HEPA filters and 20,000 portable HEPA units, and nearly 3,000 other ventilation devices. Lecce is also promising provincewide access to targeted asymptomatic testing for students and staff, using a combination of lab-processed

PCR and rapid antigen tests; mandatory masking for students in Grades 1-3, enhanced screening of secondary students and staff; and new guidance discouraging students from congregating before and after school. Beginning this month, Simcoe County District School Board is moving to a hybrid learning model for secondary school students which will allow them to go between the classroom and home learning through an online platform. Teachers will provide instruction to students who are in class as well as those who are at home through the use of video technology.

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021

QUARANTINE VALENTINE CHALLENGE By Ruth Ann Pearce

Ruth Ann is a fine artist, graphic designer & illustrator based out of Dunedin, ON. She was born and raised in Oakville, ON and has always followed a creative path. Earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts at OCADU she has continued to push her craft and her teaching. Her work can be found at www.ruthannpearce.com

CHALLENGE: I created this challenge in memory of making dozens of over-the-top Valentine’s Day cards for my parents growing up. The more glitter and ribbons the better! I’ve created this card for my late father whom I lost this past October.

LAST WEEK’S CHALLENGE

CREATIVE WRITING

UMAMI

If you have any questions or comments please email Ruth Ann at rap@ruthannpearce.com

SUPPLIES: 2-3 pieces of thick paper (card stock, cardboard etc.), Glue (I used Rubber Cement) but any household glue will do, Drawing materials, 2 Buttons, Needle & Thread, Scissors, Box Cutter, String & Ruler. STEP 1: Take 2 pieces of paper & cut a heart out out of each. I cut mine 8” x 7.5”. Tip: Print an

outline of a heart and use it as a template. STEP 2: Take the bottom piece of paper and draw a picture of your Valentine in the centre. This can be in any style, from stick-man to cartoon! STEP 3: Take the top piece of paper and draw a rectangle in the centre with a vertical line down the middle (match the size of your drawing that is on the bottom piece of paper). This will become your door to look through to your special person. My rectangle measures at 3.35” x 3”. Using your Box Cutter and ruler cut the top and bottom lines of the rectangle. Then cut the centre line. If you wish you can score the 2 outer lines of the rectangle so the doors open a bit easier.

Tip: I have included a quick how-to video of this step STEP 4: Decorate: Have fun! Decorate the top piece of paper (the piece with your door) in anyway you wish! TIP: Think of pattern, materials, colour etc. STEP 5: Buttons: Take your threaded needle and carefully sew your buttons on for door handles. Tip: Do not sew on too tight, you will want space for your string to go around them. STEP 6: Create the middle of your card. For this I used another piece of card stock and cut out a ruffle pattern. Tip: For this you can also use the classic doily, tissue paper, ribbon etc. STEP 7: Glue all 3 piece together - Bottom, Centre & Top of card like a sandwich. STEP 8: Use your string to tie your door shut and VOILA! You have a special Valentine’s Day card for a special person!

by Karnitha Karnaker “Ask her! Ask her!” my grandaunt caws. We’re on the veranda enjoying the Malabar coastal breeze. I glue my eyes to the horizon while anxiety whirlpools my insides. They haven’t bought my excuses why he isn’t on this vacation. “Mollu [Daughter]…” My grandmother’s voice: all tenderness and love speaks to my soul and turns my face to hers. “…what is umami?” Relief washes over me. “It’s…uh…flavour, like sweet, sour, salt, bitter.” They Indian bobblehead nod, encouraging me. I struggle to explain to two Kerala vegetarians that it’s a chemical reaction in the brain triggered by meat or mushrooms. Tenderly, my grandmother touches my knee; it’s bedtime. The old ladies share a giant teak bed—the easiest way to keep an eye on one another. Showered and powdered with Yardley’s London English Lavender Perfumed Talc, they settle in. This is the smell of my childhood; I climb in between them facing my grandmother. She smiles, says softly, “Mollu, I’m sorry your marriage is ended.” I burst into tears. She lifts her fingertips and draws delicate patterns on my shoulder. My salty tears and bittersweet memories mix with her comforting. Then, it hits me: “Amama, this is umami!”

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THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 •

Beware of smash and grabs Dufferin OPP is warning hikers to be vigilant after receiving reports of vehicle being broken into at trailheads this month. In all cases, which have occurred in Mulmur and Mono, the vehicles have been locked and the back window has been broken, in order to gain access to items in the back area. Items such as purses, wallets and electronics have been taken. OPP want those using the trails to ensure: All personal belongings are completely out of site (locked in trunk or better yet left at home; Be aware of surroundings, pay attention to suspicious people and activities; and contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 to report suspicious activities.

Snowmobile charges laid

Sixteen charges were laid under the Ontario Motorized Snow Vehicle Act and Trespass to Property Act Jan 27-28 during an enforcement and education initiative by Huronia West OPP and members of the OPP Snowmobile and Vessel Enforcement (SAVE) Unit. While maintaining visibility on the trails, members welcomed the opportunity to speak with numerous snowmobilers, providing public safety education and encouraging safe operation throughout the snowmobiling season. Police remind snowmobilers that an essential part of the enforcement job is to save lives and reduce injuries on trails.

Units to be used for 'personal' use (Continued from page 1) movement. “Moreover, drivers come to and from the city four to six times per week, and tightly clustered overnight accommodations will reduce daily trips to the city, encourage shared rides, and shared childcare,” said McEwen. The plan includes stormwater management and an upgrade to the existing sewage treatment plant which he said will be more efficient than the septic systems of the surrounding residences, which also have an impact on the watercourse. A common concern for residents in attendance is in regard to the accommodation. The units will be secured on a life lease basis. Owners will have to be members but they will be able to rent them to guests. Finley countered concerns saying the club has been entertaining guests without issue throughout its history and it goes both ways, as there have been issues with people renting out homes in the surrounding area. The township’s lawyer David Germain said in response to a concern, if the ski club were to close in the future, the units could conceivably be used as a hotel, but units could not be broken up and sold without further Planning Act approval. The use of the accommodation is to be deemed “personal” in the plan, which has yet to be drafted, but

Germain said the intention is to draft it as tightly as possible and not leave any loopholes that would make the use ambiguous. Many highly technical issues were addressed by consulting engineer Gord Feniak, with regard to the

assimilative capacity study and the sewage treatment system. Related documents are posted at mulmur. ca. Other matters are in the hands of the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, which is responsible for issuing relative permits.

NOTICE OF PRE-HEARING CONFERENCE

The Niagara Escarpment Planning andDevelopment Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. N.2

NOTICEto OF PRE-HEARING Proposed Amendment the Niagara Escarpment Plan PS 215 18 – Township of Clearview CONFERENCE

NEHO File No. 20-036 Plan Amendment PS 215 18: Pursuant Niagara Planning andDevelopment Act, to SectionThe10(3) ofEscarpment the Niagara Escarpment Planning and R.S.O. 1990, c. N.2 Development Act, the Niagara Escarpment Hearing Office (NEHO) will conduct a Pre-hearing Conference (PHC) with Proposed Amendment to the Niagara Escarpment Plan PS 215 18 – Township respect to a proposed amendment to the Niagara Escarpment of Clearview Plan by the Township of Clearview. The subject lands are Sideroad NEHO File No. 20-036 Plan Amendment PS 215 18: Pursuant to Section 10(3) 26/27 from Osprey-Clearview Townline to Concession 10 in the of the Niagara Escarpment Planning and Development Act, the Niagara Township ofHearing Clearview, County of Simcoe. The purpose Escarpment Office (NEHO) will conduct a Pre-hearing Conference of the (PHC) withamendment respect to a proposed amendment the Niagara Escarpment Plan proposed is to add policytoexceptions to the Niagara by the Township of Clearview. The subject lands are Sideroad 26/27 from Escarpment PlanTownline to permit infrastructure to those Osprey-Clearview to Concession 10 in the improvements Township of Clearview, portions of Sideroad 26/27. County of Simcoe. The purpose of the proposed amendment is to add policy exceptions to the Niagara Escarpment Plan to permit infrastructure

NEHO File No.to15-176 Urbaniak v. Ontario improvements those portions of Sideroad 26/27. (Niagara Escarpment Commission): The PHC will also address this related NEHO No. 15-176 Urbaniak v. Ontario (Niagara Escarpment file.NEHO ThisFile proceeding was commenced in 2015 by the Township Commission): The PHC will also address this related NEHO file. This of proceeding Clearview to appeal Niagara Escarpment Commission’s was commenced the in 2015 by the Township of Clearview to appeal the Niagara Escarpment Commission’s refusal of a development refusal of a development permit application topermit reconstruct application to reconstruct Sideroad 26/27 from seasonal to a year-round open Sideroad 26/27 from seasonal to a year-round open road. road.

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• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021

OPINION COLUMN

Hockey in the early 1900s

THE WAY WE WERE

LOCAL HISTORY

Hockey was a popular sport in Creemore in the early 1900s although different from today’s game. Teams were made up of men, mainly in their twenties. No minor hockey leagues existed. Helen The players wore very little BLACKBURN protective gear, only shin pads. A team was made up of six players, sometimes a seventh called a spare. Compared to today’s leagues there was very little organization but there was some. In December 1907 “an enthusiastic meeting of the Creemore hockey team took place. An executive was elected. Membership was 25 cents,” It was the object of the club to have good matches with outside teams in the winter. That winter they played Stayner and Shelburne, centres that could be reached by a cold ride in a sleigh. Alliston could be reached by train. Creemore’s team was called the Brownies, not a name that would be chosen today. In the years that followed hockey reports in the local paper were almost nonexistent. This may have depended on the interests of the editor. In 1913 a report told of Ernest Cleary suffering a broken jaw when hit full force by Jack McDonald’s shot. Creemore’s greatest glory in hockey, at least of the time I write, happened from January to April 1922. A photo of the team has recently been published in a 2006 calendar of old Creemore pictures. The team colours were blue and white. This team played twelve games always winning by large margins: 12-6, 12-8, 12-7. It is important to note that each player played the whole 60 minutes of the game. Team members were: Somerville, goal; Madill, left defence; McLaren, right defence; Creighton, centre; Emmett, right wing; Carlton, left wing; subs., May and Hinds.The Creemore team played Alliston, Beeton, Caledon East, Thornbury, Meaford and Tottenham, teams that were accessible by train at the time. Going over reports in the Creemore Stars is entertaining reading. One of the members, Ken Carlton, ran the paper with his mother. Every bit of excitement was noted colourfully. One comment cried, “Try as they did, the visitors [Collingwood] threw every man up to the attack.” And another game played “before a large crowd of wildly excited fans, and again, “the game was a hair raiser.” As the season went on and the sextet won yet another game, the Creemore headlines grew even more thrilling with examples such as “Creemore Applies Whitewash Brush” and “Creemore Smothers Tottenham.” Perhaps the most colourful paragraph I came across describes how desperate the Collingwood team played to win.”The visitors tried every means of stopping the locals by cross-checking, hooking, tripping, slashing and finally knocking Creighton [the best player] out in the final moments of the game. Yet the game ended 8-1 for Creemore. (See “Enthusiasm” on page 9)

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The northbound mixed chugging into Creemore at the turn of the century.

LETTERS

Noisy snowmobiles disturb the peace of neighbours Editor: I wonder if landowners who have allowed the snowmobile trails across their properties realize how complicit they are in disturbing their neighbours’ peace. Those of us who prefer living in a natural environment and non-disruptive active outdoor recreation at a pace that allows nature to be observed, not scared away, get no benefit at all from this use of your land. We are becoming all too aware of the difference between the noise of snowmobiles with altered mufflers and the muffled four-stroke engine that goes by relatively quietly. Many trails are far from the landowner’s house but pass much closer to those of their neighbours. That is like just letting your kids blare tunes at all hours while you are away. The noise bylaws that do exist, although worded in a 1950s form, are clearly designed to prevent this sort of disruption of one neighbour by another. But there is clearly no intent to enforce this law in Clearview. On weekends it sounds as if a Formula 1 race track has been built nearby. There would have to

be a due process before that happened, but apparently drag racing snowmobiles in Clearview does not have that due process. As we start to understand the damaging effects of our past practices, the trend is clearly that municipalities are developing more socially and environmentally conscious priorities. They know that these are important in attracting investment and jobs. So although Clearview does not have a council that has arrived there yet, it will happen. The trail system users should recognize that the trails’ continued existence should not be assumed, but should be earned by better control of the disruption. And landowners should be more aware of their contribution to the problem. Their permission should require the responsible users, represented by the clubs, to demonstrate an ability to limit the noise of all users. And, if as is currently the case, they can’t, then I do not see why my neighbours should be imposing the noise on me. Peter Halsall, Clearview.

Various trail users must show mutual courtesy Editor: I just finished reading your article on the many people using the trail system in various ways (Pandemic proving boon for local winter sport, Jan. 22 p.7), you neglected to mention snowmobilers. I enjoy seeing folks out taking in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings, however I am concerned for everyone’s safety. I pay to use these trails and have seen behaviour by both fellow snowmobilers and hikers.

Some sledders go too fast and some hikers seem oblivious or angry to the snowmobilers. We need to communicate to both parties that this is a multi use part of the trail. Snowmobile speeds should be monitored in these particular areas. To the hikers, I would ask all of them leash their pets and step off the trail when they hear a sled approach. Norman J. Chamula

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THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 •

Exploring sustainable portfolios THE MONEY LADY

should be something your financial planner takes very seriously and not touted as a sales ploy to get your assets on the books. Most large brokerages who believe in the value of Sustainable Christine Portfolios will be rated IBBOTSON (A+Rating) by the UN Principles for Responsible Investments, as well as provide investors with a framework and product offering for a Bravo – Craig and Valerie – great to wider impact and active management see you are trying to make a difference philosophy. Ask about the firm’s assets in the world! under management in this sector – it I don’t get asked this question often should be at least $2-5 billion if they are and am very glad to answer it. So, how serious and committed to advancing the can a small investor empower change options for Canadians to invest better. and impact the world we live in for Portfolios should always be actively our children and future generations to managed from both a top-down and come? In the past it has been virtually bottom-up perspective and evaluated impossible for everyday investors using macroeconomic and geopolitical to apply their beliefs and values to factors, trends, and with specific their portfolios, but now they can. selection processes in place. ShortSustainable portfolios have been around and long-term risks should always be for a number of years and now, more mitigated in the fund analysis to ensure than ever, are entering center stage, strong portfolio returns. as more people want to show their For those that wish to enhance their commitment to positive environmental existing portfolio with a small portion and social changes. When you invest of sustainable stock options, many in sustainable portfolios, you are can choose from a variety of mutual really making a stand towards global funds (MF) or exchange traded funds responsibility and environmental (ETF). These are generally always change. So, what are they? actively managed funds with many Offered mainly at large investment offering downside protection, risk firms, a sustainable portfolio would control, flexibility and the potential to include a guided stock portfolio outperform the market. Talk to your of proven high-quality companies advisor. Do your homework, always that demonstrate superior corporate be well diversified when investing, and governance, business ethics, labor why not consider a higher standard to and human rights standards, as well your stock selection this year, to do as responsible actions towards climate your part in creating a better world change, water management and for us all. pollution. Good Luck and Best Wishes, If you are thinking of changing your Money Lady. portfolio to hold more environmentally sustainable options, be sure to do your Christine Ibbotson, is the author research. Not all investment firms hold of the author of How to Retire Debt a socially responsible platform, and Free & Wealthy. Ask questions via her many are still not forward thinking website, www.askthemoneylady.ca. when it comes to global change. It Dear Money Lady, We are just starting to invest and wondered if there were any good investments you could recommend. We want something that makes money of course, but also promotes environmental change and social justice. Thanks, Craig and Valerie

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• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021

Museum, Association partner to mark Black History Month by Trina Berlo Dufferin community partners kickedoff Black History Month Monday with the raising of the Pan African flag at Museum of Dufferin. “It’s quite an accomplishment,” said Dufferin County Canadian Black Association (DCCBA) founder and chair Alethia O’Hara-Stevenson. “It’s a proud moment simply for the fact that here we are in Dufferin County recognizing the contributions of, not just great leaders past and present in Dufferin, but all of the Black leaders who have helped to shape Canada.” Reflecting on the past year, with the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter marches that took place across Dufferin County, she said, “It’s a proud moment to see the community coming together to support and recognize Black History Month.” The DCCBA officially launched in November. Coming off a year of seeing people standing up together during Black Lives Matter marches locally and all over the world is the inspiration for making solidarity the theme of Black History Month. “We can’t do this alone,” she said. “The issue of racism and discrimination is not just a Black issue. It affects our entire community. It affects our entire society. So it is critical that we all work together in solidarity to combat racism.” O’Hara-Stevenson said Dufferin is changing demographically to be more diverse. She said in 2016, at three per cent, the black population was the largest minority group across Dufferin County. As a representative of the DCCBA, O’Hara-Stevenson was a member of Shelburne’s Anti-Black Racism and Racism and Discrimination Task Force that met from June to September 2020 before presenting its recommendations to council. One of the things that came out of it is the establishment of an ongoing diversity, equity and inclusion

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

For the second year, the Pan African black liberation flag was raised at the Museum of Dufferin to kick-off Black History Month, with Deputy Mayor Steve Anderson and Dufferin County Canadian Black Association founder and chair Alethia O’Hara-Stevenson doing the honours, along with Dufferin warden Darren White and Shelburne Mayor Wade Mills. committee. The town has a growing and diverse population. The total visible minority population in Shelburne is 20.1 per cent, with Blacks totalling 9.5 per cent, South Asians totalling 4.9 per cent and Indigenous (Metis and First Nations) totalling 2.2 per cent of the overall population. “When you look at how the face of Dufferin County has changed… it was essential for us to be able to establish space where individuals would feel safe, where people could get pertinent information that is culturally relevant and at the same time where people who do not identify as Black can still come and gather educational information, different resources, to help understand the broader aspects of diversity and inclusion and what it means to be

Black in Dufferin County,” said O’Hara-Stevenson, adding the need for such an association was heard loud and clear during the task force’s outreach. She said the response to the creation of the DCCBA has been overwhelmingly positive from individuals, school boards, and local government. The association has a number of programs and events scheduled, including 'Ask Our Experts' featuring industry leaders sharing their expertise on a wide range of topics, student scholarships, financial literacy. (Tutoring and drop-in programs are on hold during the pandemic.) It is also breaking down barriers to municipal politics by encouraging voter engagement and candidacy. Shelburne Deputy Mayor Steve

Anderson will be offering foundational knowledge about politics, especially for young people in the community, who may become good representatives. “Often our young people, they shy away from these spaces simply because it’s not familiar to them so we want to be able to break down some of those barriers and open up the doors so they understand what’s involved and how they too can stand up and have a voice,” said O’Hara-Stevenson. On Feb. 20, Museum of Dufferin and Dufferin County Canadian Black Association are hosting a virtual live panel discussion on “Solidarity for our Community” with politicians, musical artists, and the winners’ work from a National photography/art initiative hosted by MoD in partnership with DCCBA. Panelists include MP Kyle Seeback, Ontario’s Solicitor General Sylvia Jones and the Godfather of Canadian Hip Hop Maestro Fresh Wes, Canadian rapper, record producer, DJ, and record executive Kardinal Offishall, actor Kevin Hanchard, and poet Nadine Williams. They will discuss opportunities for the Dufferin community to come together as a unified force, and what these actions mean for the future. This is a wonderful opportunity for the Museum (MoD), Dufferin County Canadian Black Association (DCCBA) and Dufferin County’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee to have this important discussion of solidarity. The community is asked to submit their questions for the panel to info@ dufferinmuseum.com. The event starts at 1 p.m. by video conferencing and will be live streamed on YouTube at www. youtube.com/user/DufferinOne. For details, visit www.dufferinmuseum. com/event/bhm. DCCBA is a volunteer-run organization and is inclusive and welcoming to all groups. For more information, membership info and to donate, visit dufferincountycba.org/ home.

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Student Think Tank promotes equity, diversity and inclusion by Trina Berlo A relatively new student committee is aiming to improve equity, diversity and inclusion in schools by raising awareness about existing policies and how students can better access them. The committee is an initiative of this year’s student trustees. Fisher Monahan, a Grade 11 student at Stayner Collegiate Institute, is one of the co-chairs, along with Cassandra McMahon from Bear Creek Secondary School and Zainab Jafri from Eastview Secondary School. The role of student trustees is to bring student perspectives to school board discussions, develop as student leaders, increase the Simcoe County District School Board’s awareness of issues of concern to students, assist trustees in determining student issues, gather student opinion and help to foster effective communication between the board and students. The idea for the sub-committee was initially pitched by Jafri at the beginning of this school year. Monahan said schools put out a call for committee members from secondary schools, and the student senate and ended up with a committee of 10 likeminded yet diverse individuals who are forward thinkers to jump start the initiative.

Recently, the committee was formally renamed the SCDSB Student Think Tank to reflect the focus on policy and research. “We started with the goal in mind of researching certain policies within the school board that are equitable, diverse and inclusive,” said Monahan. For example, every school is supposed to have a designated prayer space and gender neutral washrooms. “But not every students knows about those certain policies so with our sub-committee, we wanted to bring together a group of students who would help us advocate those policies to the general student body,” he said. Monahan said the committee hopes to increase awareness through various forms of outreach, including social media channels that are launching soon. It is also working on a survey, jointly with the school board, to gauge how students are feeling about learningat-home. The Student Think Tank will be including questions relating to equity, diversity and inclusion on the survey, which will be going out to all secondary school students in the board. Student trustee elections for the next school year are taking place later this month. For more information, visit www.scdsb.on.ca.

THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 •

File photo

Simcoe County District School Board student trustees Zainab Jafri, Fisher Monahan and Cassandra McMahon are spearheading an effort to make students better aware of existing policies that promote equity, diversity and inclusion.

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• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021

Program enables COVID-19 patients to safely recover at home To better support residents in South Georgian Bay who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and are recovering at home, the South Georgian Bay Ontario Health Team (SGB OHT) has launched a Home Monitoring Program to care for high-risk patients with suspect or confirmed COVID-19. A similar program was created at the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) in response to the emerging evidence and research surrounding the dangers of ‘silent hypoxia’ in patients who tested positive for COVID-19. Silent hypoxia occurs when a patient’s oxygen levels fall dangerously low, while not displaying significant respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath. If not attended to, silent hypoxia can result in serious health complications, including respiratory failure. In response to this risk, The Georgian Bay Family Health Team, Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, and the North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network Home and Community Care collaborated to develop a shared community response to care for high-risk patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. The LHSC team provided consultation and resources to the SGB OHT clinical team – enabling them to adapt the program to the South

Georgian Bay community. Patients in the program receive a pulse oximeter and education on its use, in addition to daily nurseled virtual visits to assess oxygen levels, symptoms and overall health, as they monitor for signs of silent hypoxia. “Patients with COVID-19 may only have mild symptoms when they are first diagnosed, but things can progress quickly, especially from day 5-10 after the onset of symptoms,” says Dr. Mark Quigg, Family Physician, Georgian Bay Family Health Team. “Through this program, our nurses are able to proactively identify patients who are showing signs of silent hypoxia and get them into treatment before their oxygen levels become critical and they require intensive care. This is especially important as the number of COVID-19 cases in our community continue to rise and potentially become more contagious. Any efforts to reduce the use of intensive care resources is essential to the integrity and sustainability of our health care system.” The COVID-19 Home Monitoring Program is a powerful tool in helping patients receive early intervention when needed, and thereby avoiding rapid decline and requirement for intubation and ventilation.

It is believed that as a result of this program, a number of lives have been saved in South Georgian Bay, through a collaborative approach to care. May Porter and her husband Gord from Wasaga Beach, Ontario have been enrolled in the program since their COVID-19 diagnosis in the New Year. Porter says that she looks forward to the call from the program nurses every day. “The equipment helps me to know that my oxygen levels are ok and that I don’t need to worry about every little change in my symptoms. The regular calls from the nurses have given me reassurance and support and we are so grateful for all that has been done for us, while I was in the hospital and at home.” Dr. Quigg has seen firsthand how the program has not only helped patients deal with their physical symptoms, but also provides a level of emotional support. “Being diagnosed with COVID 19 is very frightening for many patients and the program nurses are able to provide emotional support and guidance during their daily “virtual rounds” that many patients appreciate.” Patients can be referred into the COVID-19 Home Monitoring Program through their primary healthcare provider, Public Health, and the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, upon discharge.

Mental health support now more accessible with online services by Bonnie MacPherson Much has been said about the toll the pandemic is taking on people’s mental health so it's good news that accessing support may have actually gotten easier for Clearview residents in the past few months. Simcoe Peer Support (SPS) has been around since

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1994, helping those struggling with mental health and addiction issues to connect with community resources. Executive Director Shawna Johnson says in the past, the drop in centre in Collingwood was the first point of contact for many new members. Since last March, all programs have been offered virtually. Whereas transportation might have been a barrier for people outside more populous areas such as Collingwood and Wasaga Beach, now anyone with an internet connection can easily access support. SPS serves a huge area of North Simcoe and Muskoka, including members from Creemore and Stayner. Johnson says they typically have contact with 20-40 people per day via Facebook and Zoom, plus another 20 or so in-person visits at the centre. There are three full-time staff, all of whom have lived experience. When staff are not available, members are encouraged to interact directly with one another. No doctor or psychiatrist referral is needed. Johnson says people in need are encouraged to contact the centre, and if SPS is not the right resource, they will be connected to other resources in the community.

The mandate of the not-for-profit SPS is to promote wellness and recovery through peer support, advocacy and self-help. The group helps members develop crisis plans with the goal of decreasing the need for doctor and emergency room visits and reducing hospital stays for mental health and addiction issues. February’s events calendar shows a range of activities from a walking group, yoga mornings and arts and crafts all the way to a weekly meeting of the concurrent disorder group. Johnson says all SPS programs are continuing to run during the pandemic, just in a different way. While many members report missing in-person contacts, for people dealing with anxiety and depression connecting remotely is better than not connecting at all. The first step for anyone seeking help from Simcoe Peer Support is an initial conversation about who you are and what you are dealing with. Johnson says they understand that taking that first step can be overwhelming, so they are focused on keeping the process easy. Find them online at www. mentalhealthandaddictions.com, on Facebook at Simcoe Peer Support, or call 705-444-1844.

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THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 •

What does home mean to you? Over the past year our homes have transformed into offices, schools and, for the lucky few, places of refuge. This year more than ever, Habitat for Humanity South Georgian Bay wants to know, what does home mean to you? The annual Meaning of Home writing contest that encourages students in Grades 4, 5 and 6 to share what home means to them through a poem or short essay is back and open for submissions at meaningofhome. ca. The contest runs until Feb. 19, and three grand prize winners, one from each grade, will receive a $30,000 grant to be directed to the local Habitat home build of their choice. Founded by Sagen in 2007, the Meaning of Home contest has raised over $1.7 million to help build decent and affordable housing in communities across Canada. Last year, students from across South Georgian Bay shared what home means to them. In 2021, Habitat for Humanity South Georgian Bay is hoping to reach a new record-breaking number of submissions. Three grand prize winners, one from each grade, will receive a $30,000 grant to direct to the local Habitat for Humanity home build. Nine runners-up, three from each grade, will also receive a $10,000 grant towards a local Habitat build. Every student entry earns a $10 donation towards their local Habitat for Humanity, ensuring that communities benefit from each student’s participation. “The Meaning of Home contest provides youth an opportunity to learn about the importance of affordable

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Answers on page 11

FRED’S FUNNIES

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Enthusiasm, excitement for the game of hockey has not diminished

housing by asking them to reflect on what home means to them,” says Joy Fleury, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity. “Instilling the importance of access to safe and decent housing early on will prepare them to be future advocates on this most critical issue.” Habitat for Humanity South Georgian Bay’s model of affordable housing helps families in need of housing buy their own home. Habitat homeowners volunteer up to 500 hours and pay an affordable mortgage geared to their income, helping them build a strong foundation and the financial stability to help plan for their children’s futures. “In 2020, Sagen was proud to celebrate 20 years of affiliation with Habitat for Humanity Canada—The Meaning of Home writing contest in particular is an initiative near and dear to us,” said Stuart Levings, President and CEO of Sagen. “We’ve watched the program grow year over year, engaging over 68,000 students in Canada, and, as a founding sponsor of this contest, we’ve raised over $1.7 million to create affordable housing in communities across Canada.” Teachers or parents who are interested in having their students participate can access an educational module online at meaningofhome.ca that includes writing tips and information on affordable housing issues in Canada or connect with Habitat South Georgian Bay at info@ habitatgeorgianbay.ca for additional resources. Winners of the 2021 Meaning of Home contest will be announced in June.

(Continued from page 4) Sadly those glory days did not last. Creighton moved to Owen Sound. Another problem was the closing of the rink, previously mentioned last month. For two years the only sheet of ice available was on the river, not suitable for the game. Reports from 1928 reveal that the Creemore team had lost some of its power. They lost to Stayner 7-3 but defeated Meaford 5-4. By this time Bert Smith was the editor of the Creemore Star. His language was every bit as colourful as Ken Carlton’s. The games were described this way, “wicked wing shot. The player opened a can of worms and scored,” and “Lawson, securing the rubber, gave a splendid version of a one man hockey team by snaking his way to the opponent’s headquarters and registering.” Much has changed since those heady days of Hockey in Creemore. All sorts of padding and protective gear have been added to the hockey outfit. Many of the rules have changed and no longer only six players stay on for the whole sixty minutes. Now we have children on the teams instead of men but the enthusiasm and excitement is just as great. Helen Blackburn is a retired teacher, avid gardener and a long-time contributor to the Creemore Echo. She writes about local history.

Canadian Criss Cross ACROSS 1. False witness 5. Greek letter 8. Poles used for rowing 12. Try to persuade 13. Pirates’ beverage 14. Leg joint 15. Silly mistake 16. Said in a strong way and without any doubt 18. Keep one’s attention completely 20. Gives access to 21. High mountain 22. Coconut husk fibre 23. Evidence in court, sometimes 27. Artificial language 30. Twelve hundred hours 31. Thick black sticky substance 32. Exclamation of approval 33. In time gone by 34. Hotel employee 36. Religious word for you 38. Internet address 39. Leah and Rachel’s father 41. Butcher’s knife 45. Canadian country music singer Kira 47. Become fatigued 48. 1953 film starring Leslie Caron 49. Nevertheless 50. Aware of 51. NaCl 52. Get a glimpse of 53. Place for some baby birds

February 5, 2021 4

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2/7 DOWN 1. Racing toboggan 2. Fe 3. Intensely interested 4. Hold oneself back 5. Community in British Columbia 6. Arithmetic problems 7. Little rascal 8. Animal of the giraffe family 9. Towards the front 10. Strap for controlling a horse 11. Brief moments 17. Cry of an owl 19. Not young 22. Move around from person to person 23. Collection of memorable sayings 24. It is difficult to see through

25. Game played between two teams of eleven players 26. Vehicle for moving furniture 28. Animal kept as a pet 29. Lyric poem 32. It is used to make glue 34. Ice cream holder 35. Anger 37. Usual way of behaving 39. Jazz and blues singer Mackintosh 40. Largest continent 41. It helps solve a puzzle 42. Climbing plant 43. Greek god of love 44. Tenant’s regular payment 46. Pounds abbreviation

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021

Great Backyard Bird Count: How many birds will you find? This year marks the 24th annual Great Backyard Bird Count, an annual four-day event that brings together bird enthusiasts of all ages and folks who are new to birding from around the world to count birds. This event creates a real-time snapshot of where the birds are, which helps us understand migration patterns, year to year changes and long term trends. The Great Backyard Bird Count runs from Feb. 12-15. Participation is free, easy, highly enjoyable, and sometimes competitive. Birds are a ton of fun to watch because they share similar behaviours

to humans. By participating, you’re submitting data that is invaluable to the enrichment of ornithological research and by sharing your results you are joining so many others becoming a citizen scientist. To participate, bird watchers count birds they see or hear for a minimum of 15 minutes on one or more days of the count, or for as long as you like each day of the event. Keep a separate checklist for every location you visit and then enter your checklists at birdcount. org. Birding can take place anywhere from your back yard, eco-parks, nature reserves, water fronts, from your car or

walking home from school. These efforts help researchers better understand global bird populations before one of their annual migrations. On a deeper and more personal level, this universal bird database is more than just a bird count; it demonstrates the importance of birds as indicators of climate change and whether we’re listening to the data. Through discoverclearview.ca there will be a downloadable “Common Birds of Simcoe County” checklist to help you track and record your bird sightings. Information about available high school volunteer hours for participation in the ‘Wild about Birding’ webinar with

habituating them to food could lead to accidental fatalities. And take caution when walking onto a field, that field is owned by someone who may not want you treading on their property, so please show respect to property owners too. Believe me, unlike hawks and falcons, snowy owls are really chill birds and will likely sit long enough for you to snap a picture of a lifetime!

The Snowy Owl Bubo scandiacus Each year as winter sets in and the arctic sends its cold blistery winds south, you can be sure arctic migrants are close behind; one notable visitor is the majestic snowy owl. We know snowy owls breed in the arctic and migrate south each winter, but where can they be found when they arrive? These birds prefer hunting habitats that mimic their arctic summer grounds, so they are most comfortable in open fields and along frozen shorelines. You can spot snowy owls driving along County Road 91, Fairgrounds Road, Highway 26 or on rural roads that are surrounded by extensive farmland. These owls are quite comfortable on the ground but don’t forget to look up, because they love sitting on telephone poles, barns, houses, hay bales and trees. From these heights they use their phenomenal eyesight to spot their prey. Field mice, meadow voles, lemmings, weasels, hares, and rabbits make up their mammalian diet and ducks, gulls, and grebes make up their avian diet. Snowy owls are Canada’s largest owl, weighing around four pounds, with a wingspan of 4.5 feet. Distinguishing males from females can be challenging. Basically, male adult snowys are white. The whiter they are, the older they are. Female adults will show dark barring all over when young and the barring will fade as they age. The top of a female’s head will show barring as well, and a male’s head

Georgian Bay Wildlife (see below)from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 12 is all online. Free registration begins this weekend and is available to the first 100 people who sign up. If you want great success at this time of year get those bird feeders topped up or visit the shorelines where waterfowl are present. Sometimes driving the back roads and patiently scanning the fields will prove rewarding. To learn more about and how to take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count, visit gbbc.birdcount.org. Visit Birds Canada, www.birdscanada. org, to explore how to contribute and participate to birding in Canada.

The majestic snowy owl will be white. Female snowys are also larger than male snowys, a condition known as reverse sexual dimorphism. Juveniles have extensive dark barring all over their bodies and can be confused with young adult females. Young and old, they all share the same piercing yellow eyes. Snowy owls show up each year in varying numbers and every several years make a large appearance called an irruption. An irruption occurs when high numbers of snowy owls migrate south for the winter. When prey populations are high, owl broods will match resulting in more owls making the trip to their wintering grounds. For more information about snowy owl irruptions, visit www. projectsnowstorm.org/what-is-anirruption. Contrary to a popular myth, snowy owls are not starving when they reach

their wintering grounds. Years of research into their body conditions have shown plenty of animals have above average body fat, also known as subcutaneous fat stored in their chest and wings. Snowy owls are solitary birds that sit a lot, and hunt alone during the day and night, so they are both diurnal and nocturnal. This makes capturing a picture of them much easier, especially when they are fairly calm around traffic. Remember, safety first when looking for owls or any bird while driving. Busy highways are not the safest place to track and take pictures; rather, quiet side roads are preferred. Remember to use your signals, and pull over as not to interrupt flow of traffic. On this note of safety, there are ethics for birding as well; the welfare of these owls is paramount if we want them to propagate. Spooking them or

Andrew Major was born in Frobisher Bay, NWT and grew up in the countryside of Meaford. He currently lives in Clearview Township and brings a wealth of knowledge a s a Wi l d l i f e Te c h n i c i a n who studied at Sir Sandford Fleming College. Over the past 10 years he has run educational wildlife tours through georgianbaywildlife.com. Andrew has also been contracted throughout Canada to conduct bird, aquatic invert, fish, and herpetile environmental impact surveys. He is also the Birds Canada ambassador for Simcoe County. In addition to his love and passion for wildlife, Andrew holds an Honours degree in Classical History for Queen’s University and a Master’s degree in Roman Late Antiquity Studies from University of Ottawa. Major will be doing weekly spots on the peak FM each Friday, in partnership with Clearview Township.

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ECHO Classifieds

THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 •

FOR SALE

WANTED

SEASONED FIREWOOD. Sold as bush cord. Call 705-627-2676. CREEMORE HILLS WINERY Pét-Nat for sale $30 (12.5% alc./ vol. 750 ml) Enjoy a walk through the vineyard. COVID Prices – Wine: White or Red, $20; Honey: $20. For pre-arranged pick-up or delivery Call/Text 647-588-8931. Email cmorrissey0708@rogers.com.

SERVICES

ELLIOTT PAINTING AND DECORATING, over 30 years experience with excellent references. Interior and exterior painting and wallpapering. Call for free estimate at 705-466-2356. CONTRACTOR REPAIRS, restores, dismantles and jacks up farm buildings, homes, and cottages. Also roofing, siding, doors, windows, beams, posts, foundations, peers, cement work, fencing, eaves troughing, decks, docks installed, repaired, replaced. Contact Brian McCurdy, at 519-986-1781 or 519375-0958. SMITH’S LAWN CARE is now booking for 2021. Lawn cutting, landscaping, garden and property maintenance. License/insured. Call (705)888-7092 or email smithlawns@ outlook.com

FOR RENT

COUNTRY RETREAT for rent for February. $1,200 for a week stay. All utilities included. Five-bedroom farmhouse on 200 acres. Ten minutes north of Mansfield. Inquires, please contact Paula at 519-572-5071. COMMERCIAL UNIT for rent. Approx 400 sq. ft. 6 Caroline St. W. 705-446-8112.

SEEKING LAND

SEEKING VACANT LAND (2550 acres) in the Creemore/north Mulmur area. Flowing water or pond preferred. Combination of treed and open land. Will pay cost to sever if needed. Call or text 416-882-2581.

A FUTURE IN THE VILLAGE. OF CREEMORE housing has become wildly inaccessible. Does someone have vacant land they would like to sell so we can build a home for our kids! Pretty please? MK @705888-5408.

THANK YOU

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! Words cannot express my gratitude to everyone that sent cards, flowers and best wishes on our closing. The past 18 years serving the Creemore Community will be forever in my heart. Sincerely, Norma Panzine

IN MEMORIAM

ROWBOTHAM, Lloyd Mervin - In loving memory of Lloyd who passed away Feb 6, 2020. You can shed tears that he is gone, Or you can smile because he has lived. You can close your eyes and pray he will come back, Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left. Your heart can be empty because you can't see him, Or you can be full of the love you shared. You can turn your back on tomorrow and live in yesterday, 2 be5 happy 6 8for tomorrow 7 Or you can because 5 of yesterday. 7 1 You can remember him and only that 9 he is gone, Or5you6can4cherish his memory and let it live on. 9 6 You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back, 7 6 2 Or4you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on. 1 5 by Loved and9 remembered always Jean, and 1 Wanda, 8Juanita, 5 4 Roxane 9 Families.

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WILKINSON, Olive Louise (Davidson) passed away on February 3, 2021. Olive was 95 years old. Married to Robert Wilkinson for 57 years, until he was deceased in 2001. Survived by three sons, Lynn, Perry and Steven, and their spouses. Also she will be missed by three grandsons, Evan, Kyle and Cory. There will be a family gathering in the Spring for interment at Lavender Cemetery.

CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 1, 200 MCCLEARY, Richard Albert - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather Richard Albert McCleary, age 74, passed peacefully and unexpectedly in his home in Avening surrounded by his family. The loving husband of Kathy (nee Cunningham). A proud father of daughter Alison (Steve) and son Robert (Alana). A devoted grandfather of Caitlin, Wyatt, Katsandra, Loeto and Malachy. The son of Lillian and Albert (both deceased). The uncle of Jennifer and Jessica and the brother of Roger (Zib). The father figure of his nephew Jean Paul (deceased), and the brother in law of Beth. A dedicated nephew of Do (deceased). A friend to many. Richard grew up in Toronto. He married his lovely wife in 1972 and together they built McCleary’s Antiques. They lived in Montreal, Cookstown, Avening and Meaford. He loved to travel and had a great fondness of the ocean. He lived life to the fullest with enthusiasm. He is already missed by the people he left behind who love him dearly. He will be cremated and laid to rest in Queensville later this year. In lieu of flowers please feel free to donate to St. Michael’s Hospital Foundation – Transplant and Kidney Care Centre. Friends may visit Richard’s online Book of Memories at www. fawcettfuneralhomes.com.

Breedon’s Automotive

OUR DOORS ARE LOCKED but we are able to help. If you require printing, photocopies or faxes call ahead for curbside service.

NEWS FINE STATIONERY • MAGAZINES • GIFTS PRINTER INK • GREETING CARDS SCANNING, FAX AND PHOTO COPYING

The Creemore Echo 3 Caroline St. W. 705-466-9906 www.creemore.com

REPAIRS TO ALL MAKES AND MODELS

Cars - Vans - Light Trucks Tires - Fuel Injection - Electronics MTO Safety Inspection Performance Parts & Service (705) 428-0550

222 Montreal Street Stayner, ON L0M 1S0 John & Kim Breedon

This week’s answers U R G E

Submit your classified ad by 5 p.m. Tuesday: call 705-466-9906, fax 705-466-9908, email info@ creemore.com,$17 + hst for 25 words or less

VALENTINE'S DAY

Creemore Legion Ladies Auxiliary Annual VALENTINE'S TAKEOUT DINNER is Sunday, Feb. 14. Includes lasagna, Caesar salad, bun/butter, cheesecake. Meat and vegetarian options. Call to reserve by Feb. 7, 2021. 705-466-2462 or 705466-2330. Masks must be worn for pick-up in the lounge between 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Please have exact change. Add a bottle of red or white wine for just $20 - please notify when ordering.

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Lumber • Plywood Trusses • Windows Roofing • Siding Fence Supplies • Culverts Cedar Posts • Railway Ties Fuel Delivery •Oil Furnaces Lawn & Garden Supplies “Nowhere... but close to everywhere.”

Fran Webster S A L E S R E P R E S E N TAT I V E

Always At Your Service DIRECT

705 444 9081 OFFICE

705 445 5454 EMAIL

websterfh@gmail.com

HAMILTON BROS. • EST. 1874 • 705-466-2244 hamiltonbros@ultrafastwireless.com 2047 Glen Huron Rd, Glen Huron

Chestnut Park Real Estate Limited, Brokerage / www.ChestnutPark.com

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 5, 2021 217 Gideon Street, Stayner, ON L0M 1S0 Telephone: 705 428-6230 | Fax: 705 428-0288 Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm

www.clearview.ca

Communications are available in alternative formats upon request.

COMMUNITY MAINTENANCE AND BEAUTIFICATION LABOURER Temporary Full-time

Clearview Township is currently seeking three (3) temporary full-time Community Maintenance and Beautification Labourers from April – October Key Accountabilities Reporting to the Supervisor, Parks, Culture and Recreation, the Community Maintenance and Beautification Labourers are responsible for the maintenance of community property and township beautification projects. The preferred candidates will possess strong working knowledge of power and hand tools, push mowers, riding lawn mowers, whipper / weed snipper, power washers and street sweeper. They must be a self starter with strong problem-solving skills and a pride in good workmanship attitude as well the ability to deal with the public in a courteous and professional manner. Skills and Experience • Minimum Grade 12 education with 2 years of demonstrated experience in streetscapes, parks and outdoor spaces. • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment. • Personal suitability and satisfactory physical condition. • Knowledge of standard hand and power tools, lawn maintenance equipment and equipment used in maintenance activities and ability to operate such in a safe and effective manner. • Knowledge of safety standards and precautions pertaining to the use of tools and safe work practices. • Ability to understand, read and follow written and oral instructions. • Ability to perform heavy manual labour, including bending, stooping, reaching and lifting heavy objects. • Physical strength and ability sufficient to meet job requirements for extended periods under uncomfortable conditions in all types of weather. • Ability to climb on ladders and to work in confined spaces. • Current certification WHIMIS • A valid Ontario Driver’s License, Class “G” with a driving record that demonstrates responsible / safe driving behavior Salary: Salary range offered for this position is $21.37 per hour, plus 4% vacation pay. Note: The preferred candidate must be willing to provide consent for the Township to conduct a criminal background and vulnerable sector check prior to finalizing an employment offer. Interested candidates are invited to forward their resume and covering letter quoting job # 2021-008 to Human Resources by March 5, 2021 to: hr@clearview.ca **Proceeding with these positions will be dependent on Provincial Orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. ** We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please. The Township of Clearview is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Please visit: www.clearview.ca

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT FIRE DEPARTMENT

Permanent Part-time- (28 hours per week) Clearview Township (Fire Department) is seeking an energetic, self-motivated and team oriented individual to perform the duties and responsibilities of Administrative Assistant. Key Accountabilities Reporting to the Deputy Fire Chief, the Administrative Assistant is responsible for, assisting with records management, data entry and reporting, reception duties, incoming and outgoing mail, preparing correspondence, attendance tracking, meeting coordination, AP and minute taking along with other administrative tasks. Skills and Experience • Minimum 2 year Post Secondary Diploma in Administration, Business, or equivalent work experience with 2 years experience in an administrative position • Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment • Excellent computer skills in the Microsoft programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Knowledge of Fire House considered an asset • Demonstrated time management skills along with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills • Superior customer services skills • Ability to understand, read and follow written and oral instructions • Current WHIMIS and CPR training including COVID renewal extension • Valid G Driver’s License with a clean Driver’s Abstract with reliable transportation • Ability to attend some evening or weekend meetings or other events related to the functions and events of the department Salary: Salary range offered for this position is $23.03 - $27.99 per hour plus 4% vacation pay. Note: The preferred candidate must be willing to provide consent for the Township to conduct a criminal background and vulnerable sector check prior to finalizing an employment offer. Interested candidates are invited to forward their resume and covering letter quoting job # 2021-007 to Human Resources by February 12, 2021 to: hr@clearview.ca We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please. The Township of Clearview is an equal opportunity employer. Accommodation will be provided in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). Please visit: www.clearview.ca

SUMMER STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES 2021 summer student job opportunities are available with Clearview Township. Details of all jobs and hiring criteria can be viewed at: wwww.clearview.ca under the employment opportunities section. Job #2021–001 Pool Instructors / Lifeguards (6 positions) Job #2021–002 Pool Lifeguard – Supervisor Job #2021–003 Student Water / Sewer Operator (Co-Op position) Job #2021–004 Student Roads Workers (4 positions) Job #2021–005 Student Tourism/ Culture Assistants (5 positions) Job #2021–006 Student Public Works GIS Technician All positions are 35-40 hours per week (May to August 2021)

All resumes must be received electronically through the Human Resources department, by Friday, March 12, 2021 at: hr@clearview.ca Please indicate job # in subject line. If applying for more than one position, please indicate order of preference. **Proceeding with student positions will be dependent on Provincial Orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic. ** We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note: In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, please contact Human Resources for accommodation inquiries or requirements at 705-428-6230 x. 255