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The Creemore

ECHO

Friday, February 19, 2021 Vol. 21 No. 08

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News and views in and around Creemore

INSIDE

The Great Outdoors

Respect the rules of Conservation Areas PAGE 7

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Family partners in new restaurant, store by Trina Berlo A new restaurant has opened at the top of town. The new venture is a three-way partnership between Angus residents Marcel and Pamela Venne, and her brother James Dewitt, of Waubaushene. They have named the restaurant Dewennes, a portmanteau of their last names. The restaurant opened on Feb. 4, although operations were limited during the lockdown. Current restrictions have impacted the opening, but this is actually the second time the family has opened a restaurant during the pandemic. They also operate the Riverside Hideaway restaurant in Coldwater, set in the village’s historic grist mill, built in 1833. That restaurant opened in July under different circumstances, said Pamela. She recalls, at that time patios were open for dining and they had a plan for opening day when suddenly the province began allowing indoor seating. “We were overrun,” said Pamela, adding that they ended up expanding the patio to meet the demand.

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Marcel and Pamela Venne (from left), and James Dewitt have taken over the restaurant and convenience store in Creemore's north end, opening Dewennes, a playful hybrid of their last names. Pamela said she first discovered the village of Creemore after riding her horse in the Dufferin forest. She and other riders came to the restaurant for brunch after their traiil ride. She said she has many years of experience working for the corporation that owns Kelsey’s and other chains,

working her way up through the industry from dishwasher to manager. Her husband is retired from the military, and they have seven children between them. Dewitt is a contractor and completed an extensive renovation of Riverside Hideaway before it opened. More recently she asked a real estate

friend to let her know if anything became available in Creemore and an opportunity led her back to that same restaurant. Pamela said they are leaning on the staff from the other location as they get established. The plan is to offer breakfast and carry over some of the favourite menu items from the other restaurant such as spinach cheese dip, stirfry, steaks, pasta Alfredo and fish dishes. The family has leased the restaurant and convenience store. They had hoped to operate the gas bar but it is inoperable at the moment and would need a large investment to get it going. They have opened up a doorway between the store and the restaurant, and are working out what to offer. Dewennes is now open for breakfast on the weekends. The dining room opens at 8 a.m. but seating is limited to 10 indoors with a maximum of four per table, due to public health requirements. To make a reservation, call 705-5200060. Dewennes is located at 7535 County Road 9, Creemore. Find them on Facebook for hours and full menu.

Council opts to discuss halls in closed session by Trina Berlo Clearview councillor Thom Paterson tried to convince fellow council members to discuss community halls in open session Wednesday, but to no avail. It is assumed the discussion was about how to proceed with accessibility renovations at six township owned halls that need work to make them compliant with standards required by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). “I feel perfectly comfortable with this council discussing it and with the full view of the public,” said Paterson. “It really would make the next discussion

with the hall boards so much easier if they heard the pros and cons and the thinking that went on with this council in terms of how to resolve this difficult situation. I would ask, do we need to go in-camera?” Councillors held the in-camera session during a special council meeting to discuss a “Community Halls Review.” The reason for the closed session was, to form “a position, plan, procedure, criteria or instruction to be applied to any negotiations carried on or to be carried on by or on behalf of the municipality or local board.” “There very well could be some discussions and some negotiations

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with some local hall boards,” said clerk Pamela Fettes, adding that staff saw this as an opportunity for council to have a discussion amongst themselves to get on the same page before presenting their thoughts to the hall boards. “Any decisions that are made would be made in a public forum,” said Fettes. Clearview council is opening a new round of discussions about making the municipality’s community-run halls fully accessible. Council received an updated engineer’s report in March estimating it would cost between $5.1 million and $8 million to renovate six halls – Avening, Sunnidale Corners, Nottawa, Duntroon,

Brentwood and Dunedin – depending on the level of accessibility, including fees for architectural, engineering, and project management, as well as kitchen upgrades to become fire code compliant. Council commissioned an update of a 2012 Hall Board Facility Assessment Report so it would have current figures. The 2012 report estimated a cost of $710,000 to make all six halls accessible. Council was in-camera from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. At the end of the meeting, Mayor Doug Measures said the conversation would continue with the hall boards, and that a meeting date would be set.

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021

10 The Green

1 Bank Cafe 12

3 2 Mill Street

11 The Main Line

4 15

3 Village Green Sign

12 Foodland

2 13

4 Stage

13 Market & Parking Lot

5 11

14 14 Station on the Green

5 The Square

6 6 The Fountain

7 8

7 Splash Pad

15 Horticultural Gardens

9 15

16 Terrace

8 Ping Pong 17 Centopah Walk

9 Storage Shed

THE VILLAGE GREEN Connections: A Village at Rest and Play Every day from May through October, Creemore’s beloved Dancing Children fountain has acted as a magnet to children of all ages. Donated to the village by artist Ralph Hicks, its expression of connection and play captures perfectly the spirit and intent of the Creemore Village Green. As an enduring emblem of the village with a big heart, the fountain has, for nearly 20 years, been a meeting place for villagers and visitors on their way to the Saturday morning Farmers’ Market and the Station on the Green.

When the Village Green is completed this summer, the fountain will remain a focal point, anchoring the expanded surrounding space and its many other attractions, all of them free. The public has clearly voiced the desire for a space that will be a focal point for community events and private gatherings – a venue, that in the words of Tony Arrell, Director of the Creemore Community Foundation, “welcomes everyone, young and old.”

The Square Central to the Village Green is The Square, a broad paved area adjacent to Mill Street which will connect the park to the commercial core of the village. The Square will be a destination for people watching, enjoying the ambiance and the gardens, or participating in open air yoga or tai chi classes. Friends and families can enjoy impromptu gatherings around colourful, moveable tables and chairs while savouring coffee and snacks from the nearby cafes and restaurants. Open sightlines and accessible pathways will connect Mill Street with key destinations such as Station on the Green, the Cenotaph, the Library and the Log Cabin.

Water Jets Splash Pad From The Square parents can relax while watching children play on the relocated fountain and the newly created splash pad with water jets, a highlight of the new Village Green that is sure to be a perennial favourite. Seniors and parents will be able to enjoy the fun from nearby benches or the expansive lawns flanking the square.

Ping Pong

Skating

Terrace

For more fun and recreation, a permanent ping pong table will be installed next to the splash pad; racquets and balls will be available nearby. The table will double as a location for such events as book and plant sales. Spectators will be able to take in the action from benches or viewing platforms nestled under the shade of an old maple and the longtime favourite crab apple climbing tree. climbing tree.

Of course, ping pong and water play are primarily summer activities. In winter, the broad green lawn flanking the Main Line is available to be transformed into an outdoor rink, complete with lights for evening skating events. Imagine Village Green treelighting ceremonies, carol singing and ice sculpture contests, just some of the activities we can enjoy during the long winter months.

All around the park, the redesigned and replanted Horticultural Gardens will provide beauty, as they have since 1925, in the heart of the Village. Nearer to the Station on the Green, these gardens will provide a lush and luxurious surround for a small Terrace, an ideal backdrop for outdoor weddings, cocktail parties, or a place to gather before Sunday church services.

Creemore’s Village Green is designed to be a place to gather and play, a place to meet and mingle, a place of welcoming connection and wellbeing in a hectic world.

This is the second of a four-part series. Stay tuned for more glimpses at what’s going on behind the Mill Street hoardings in upcoming issues of the Creemore Echo. To make a donation go to www.creemorecommunityfoundation.ca Or drop your cheques off with Keith Boulters’ office in town.

THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021 •

Concession 10 roadwork to proceed by Trina Berlo Clearview Township council has voted to enter into a construction contract with Walker Aggregates for the first phase of the required work on the 10th Concession from Road 91 to the 30/31 Sideroad. As of last month, permits from the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC), and the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) have been issued, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), has signed off. The road has been identified as being a priority for reconstruction for more than two decades and is the only unpaved section of the 10th Concession between County Road 124 and Collingwood, reported Dan Perrault, Clearview’s deputy director of public works. “It has been impacted by ever increasing traffic demands which has increased the maintenance requirements of the existing gravel surface and the overall concerns related to public safety,” said Perrault. “Section 3.1 of the Road Settlement Agreement that was developed and signed during the Joint Board Hearing for the Duntroon Quarry Expansion gives Clearview the option, exercisable in its sole discretion, to enter into a direct contract with Walker Aggregates Inc. to complete the road improvement

work for the 10th Concession.” The roadwork has been broken into two, possibly three phases, with the first phase of construction set to begin immediately, with tree clearing taking place this winter. Phase one of the work is on just under one kilometre of the 3.3 kilometre project, stretching between County Road 91 and 26/27 Sideroad Nottawasaga. The remainder of the work will continue in 2022 with paving possibly delayed until 2023. The cost estimate to complete the works on the 10th Concession is $3,572,120, of which Clearview has budgeted to pay $1,000,000, with the remainder being paid by Walker Aggregates. The financing is set out in the minutes of settlement from a decadeold consolidated hearing board that was agreed to by parties involved in a plan to close a portion of County Road 91 to be used by the quarry. The road closure was contingent on the upgrades of Concession 10 and 26/27 Sideroad. Clearview has subsequently been denied permits for the work on 26/27 Sideroad and is appealing that decision at an upcoming tribunal process. The Concession 10 construction contract and related bylaw was approved at a special meeting of council on Feb. 17, but with certain amendments.

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The road is being designed to a standard that would allow for a 70 km/hr posted speed limit but councillors took steps to ensure the speed limit would be reduced to 60 km/hr, to appease the safety concerns of residents, at the suggestion of Councillor Doug McKechnie. Councillor Thom Paterson was also looking for assurances that the roadwork was not contingent on the contentious NEC permits for the 26/27 Sideroad, that the whole agreement won’t fall apart if the 26/27 Sideroad permits are not issued. “Walker has provided funding to do this road [Concession] 10. It’s within the same agreement but we would not expect Walker to ask for the money back if for some reason provincial red tape wouldn’t allow us to proceed with the entire project,” said director of public works Mike Rawn. The Concession 10 roadwork is related to, but not contingent on, the township’s applications relating to development permits for 26/27 Sideroad, which is also part of the settlement. Clearview is appealing the refusal of a development permit and making an application to amend the Niagara Escarpment Plan to allow for road works after wetlands were identified in the area. A pre-hearing conference is scheduled for Feb. 24.

Legion cooks up Irish stew The Creemore Legion is preparing a take-out Irish Stew Dinner on Thursday, March 18. The cost is $14 per person and includes Irish stew, coleslaw, roll and butter, and Bread pudding with caramel or white sauce. Order before March 11 by calling 705-466-2330. Pick up is at the Legion from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Please bring exact change, wear masks and maintain distancing.

Coldest Night of the Year

A team from St. Luke’s Anglican Church is participating in the Coldest Night of the Year, walking 10km to support Home Horizon’s Barbara Weider House in Collingwood, which supports youth who are at risk. The event takes place each year in Collingwood but this year, during the pandemic, the event is spreading out. The St. Luke’s Walkers will be departing the church at 2 p.m. on Feb. 20 and walking 10 km through the streets of Creemore and into the hills and back to St. Luke’s. The exact route has not been determined. Anyone can join in. Sign up and donate online at CNOY.org. Just search for the St. Luke’s Walkers, Collingwood. The community is also welcome to cheer on the walkers as they depart from the church. For more information, call Lorna May at 705-352-2759.

Do you use the west end of Road 91 for business or personal travel? Clearview Township wants to block you from using this travel corridor west of Duntroon.

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&Feedback

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19 , 2021

OPINION COLUMN

Feedback and old photos welcome info@creemore.com call 705-466-9906 fax 705-466-9908

THE WAY WE WERE

If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet by Anna Schuett It’s wonderful to see that many people are spending more time outdoors this winter than ever before. What’s even greater is that pet owners are letting their pets join in on the fun. Outdoor activity is beneficial for people and pets alike, but it’s important that you take appropriate precautions when dealing with any type of extreme weather. Going for walks and hikes is one of the easiest and most accessible ways you can spend quality time with your dog in the winter. If you’re planning on taking your dog on a number of outdoor adventures, make sure to keep his/her coat its natural length. Needless to say, this will help keep your best friend nice and toasty. For shorter haired breeds, jackets are an easy way to ensure your dog is warm with the added bonus of looking extra snazzy. Some jackets even come with reflectors which is a great safety feature for evening strolls. Although dog paw pads are built tough, freezing temperatures, salt and ice debris can wreak havoc on them. There are a few ways that you can protect those furry feet: booties (which your dog may or may not agree with), paw balm and towels. Bring a towel on your walks so you can periodically wipe away any snow, ice and salt accumulation. It’s a good idea to wipe your dog’s paws and underside after every walk. As you and I reach for our jar of hand lotion for the seventh time today, your pet’s skin may also be flakier and drier during the winter months. It is best to keep bathing sessions to a minimum. Frequent bathing can remove the natural oils that keep your pet’s skin moisturized. When their skin is dry, pets tend to scratch and gnaw themselves incessantly, often so much that they develop sores. If your little rascal decided to roll in some questionable organic material on your walk and you have no choice but to run a bath, choose a moisturizing shampoo. Keeping the humidity levels in your home elevated (not too high!) helps to keep pets’ skin and sinuses more comfortable. The ideal humidity level in your home should range between 30 per cent and 50 per cent. Running small humidifiers throughout your living space makes a big difference. If you have a woodstove, consider placing a big pot of water on the top – just be careful and don’t let the water completely evaporate before refilling. When it comes to cold weather safety, remember this: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet. Do not leave pets unattended or outdoors for extended periods of time. Winter activities can be wonderful for you and your pet when done safely. Have fun enjoying the great outdoors! Anna Schuett is the Communications & Marketing Coordinator for the Georgian Triangle Humane Society. She has three cats – Abbey, Ozzie & Roxy – who bring her immeasurable joy.

Building plan of the original Avening train station. From Rails to The Lakes, The Story of the Hamilton and Northwestern Railway, submitted by Myrtle Carruthers.

LETTERS

Is there another route, as County Road 91 process continues? Editor: Wanting to understand why Clearview is proposing to close the road past the Walker quarry, I spoke to Walker Industries executive vice president Ken Lucyshyn. He assures me that Walker will not be mining the quality rock under that road. Understandably residents are upset by quarry trucks, however closing the road to the public still leaves the Walker quarry trucks using the road. Blue Mountain Watershed Trust tells me that though they have asked, they too haven’t been answered. The iTrans Traffic analysis carried out for Walker prior to the quarry hearing concluded that the existing roads could handle the new quarry traffic. Clearview would like a permit to upgrade and reroute traffic to 26/27 Sideroad. Why is County Road 91 to be closed requiring rerouting? There is another pre-hearing conference to establish

dates for the Environmental Hearing Board to hear Clearview’s appeal on Feb. 24. Who’s counting. I am told this is the 14th conference. Is the public paying for these conferences without being told why the road might be closed? This issue first came to my attention about 10 years ago. Much may have changed since then and the Clearview CAO who might have had answers retired in December. My question is, should Clearview once again be denied the permit to upgrade 26/27 Sideroad, are they obligated to close County Road 91 through earlier negotiations or risk a lawsuit? Might mediation between the parties bring us a less costly solution? Clearview, what is the reason, and why is it you aren’t telling us? Heather Baker, Singhampton.

Congratulations on passing of Indigenous theme policy Editor: Congratulations to Clearview Township council for passing the policy that there will not be any display of indigenous images in the sports facilities. And congratulations to Christopher Dodd for spearheading the campaign and to Evan Dodd for his eloquence in describing the feelings of indigenous people. It makes no difference if people are of a different

race, language, culture or religion. All of us have similar feelings. I say, stand up, speak out. Let’s get rid of racism and injustice. Creemore has a long and proud history of baseball. Our current team can still be a proud and successful team with a name change. Helen Blackburn, Creemore.

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The Creemore Echo is published every Friday and distributed free locally. Editorial and advertising material deadline is Tuesday at 5 p.m. To receive a weekly copy of The Creemore Echo by mail outside of the circulation area or e-mail version please contact us at info@creemore. com. Mail, email and voluntary subscriptions: $55. Publication Agreement # 40024973 Please return undeliverable Canadian mail to address below.

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THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021 •

Ward system should be preserved for best representation CARA CORNER

As readers may have seen in the full-page ads in The Echo, Clearview Township is seeking residents’ input into the size and basis of electing council. The choices are a council of seven or nine (including the mayor and deputy mayor, who sit on Greg YOUNG county council) and a ward system, at-large elections, or a hybrid. CARA’s position is that the ward system should be preserved to allow for Creemore’s voice as well as other areas within Clearview to be heard at council and that the number of wards be reduced to five, for the reasons that follow. We encourage you to vote for your own preference by completing the paper survey in The Echo or by accessing the survey online via clearview.ca. In 2013, Watson and Associates Economists Ltd., in association with Dr. Robert J. Williams (the “consultants”), were retained by the Township of Clearview to conduct an electoral review. The consultants compared the system of councillors being

elected by separate wards to the system of every councillor being elected “at large” to represent all residents in Clearview. Following a thorough review and public participation, the consultants concluded that: 1. The overriding principle for Val DYER testing the appropriate electoral system is “effective representation”, and that “effective representation often cannot be achieved without taking into account countervailing factors” such as “geography, community history, community interests and minority representation”; 2. The at-large alternative does not enhance communication and accessibility; 3. The at-large alternative does not address the diversity of interests within Clearview; and 4. It is not obvious that an at-large arrangement is capable of bringing a coherent voice (or voices) to the deliberations or effectiveness to the process of representation. It may lead to confusion and turmoil rather than good government.

The consultants’ recommendation was: “An at-large electoral system falls short of the expectations set out in the guiding principles for this review. As such, wards should not be dissolved in Clearview.” CARA supports the continuation of the ward system for the reasons articulated by the consultants. The ward system is best for allowing Creemore’s sometimes unique concerns and positions to be effectively represented. On the issue of the size of council, it is hard to justify continuing with a nine-person council to govern approximately 15,000 residents in Clearview. CARA supports the five-ward option (seven-member council): Five councillors, plus a deputy mayor and mayor elected “at-large”. Whatever your views on the best electoral system for Clearview, we urge you to participate in the township’s survey before Feb. 28. The survey will only take a few minutes. Let your voices be heard! CARA Corner is authored by Greg Young and Val Dyer, and submitted on behalf of the Creemore Area Residents’ Association. Visit, creemoreresidents.ca.

Wild About Winter: The Snowshoe Hare This weekly Wild About Winter feature continues in support of a campaign in partnership with Georgian Bay Wildlife and the Township of Clearview. The information is shared during a weekly segment on Peak FM: by Andrew Major The Snowshoe Hare, with the rabbit, were once classified in the same order as rodents, but are now recognized in their own order, Lagomorpha. They live strictly in North America, in heavily wooded and shrubby forests. Their habitat needs to be low canopy to offer the protection they need from predators. They will establish runways throughout the forest that act like hare highways. Throughout the summer months, snowshoe hares will have brown fur, but will shed in the fall to expose long guard hairs that turn it all white, an adaptation to match the climate. This gives hares an advantage to disguise from predators. Next time you are in the forest snowshoeing, scan the snow for similar tracks. They were coined “snowshoe” because their hind feet leave a track identical to a snowshoe. This evolutionary advantage allows the snowshoe hare to travel on top of the snow without sinking. Hares are dominantly herbivores, with a diet consisting of grasses, plants and bark of many species of trees and bushes, including berry canes. During the winter, hares will strip the bark off apple trees. When hares debark wood, they are browsing the tender cambium layer, which is the layer beneath the tough outer bark, is composed of xylem and phloem, which act like veins of nutrients that support the tree. They do share the same menu with rodents and white-tailed deer; but they have tell tale signs of how they eat that sets them apart. Rodents have smaller incisors so their debarking is neat and shallow, whereas hares will browse into the cambium and sometimes leave a ripped mess of bark when they make bite marks. Compared to deer, both will browse

The Snowshoe Hare, Lepus americanus tips of shrubs and low bushes and canes, hares will leave a neat 45 degree angle bite browse mark at the end of twig or cane whereas deer leave a tip that looks like its be crudely ripped off. So now you know whose eating your spiraeas! Snowshoe hares lack manners; they poop where they eat. In the winter, you’ll know where hares have been when little round pellets are left beneath a debarked maple sapling. Hares and rabbits will have brown, round pellets, whereas deer will leave oval shaped pellets of the same colour. Hares take their lack of manners to another level, though; they eat their own dung. This procedure is called refection, and involves hares eating a soft form pellet. They do this because their stomach’s fermentation process is not very extensive so by re-eating their faeces, they are taking in more nutrients, thus increasing digestive efficiency and recapturing nutrients. The final product is that hard brown, round pellet lying in the snow. As the winter relents, male and female hares will start mating courtships. Males, or bucks, get one whole day to make it “count” with a single female, or doe, in a display called “courtship parades”. One female will travel and browse with several males stopping periodically to chase and leap over each other than breed. She will have a litter of up to 13 leverets about 36 days later. Litter sizes differ based

on the number of litters in the year. When born, the babies are precocial, which means they have fur and eyes are wide open, unlike rabbit leverets, which are born altricial. Snowshoe hares have lots of young, probably because they are a food source for so many predators and a long life expectancy is not in their favour, even if they can leap three meters to escape. Some predators include: coyotes, red fox, fisher, long-tailed weasel, Canada lynx, bobcat, hawks and owls, but on occasion, the code of the forest changes and hares will change up their diet and favour protein; they will eat small mammals like voles and mice and will eat the carrion of dead animals including the ones that hunt them. I was told a story once of a pack hares in the Arctic that attacked and predated an Arctic fox; having watched Monty Python and the Search for the Holy Grail many times, I wasn’t surprised! Andrew Major lives in Clearview and runs educational wildlife tours through georgianbaywildlife. com. He is also the Birds Canada ambassador for Simcoe County.

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• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021

CREATIVE NON-FICTION WRITING CHALLENGE: A PROFILE By Rina Barone

Rina Barone has been a producer, director, and writer for documentaries and television. She is also the author of a children’s book, A Bird Chronicle. She earned a Bachelor of Journalism at Ryerson University. She lives with her husband and their three daughters, and as a family, run the bookstore in town.

THE CHALLENGE: This week’s challenge is to create an engaging short profile about someone interesting in your life, or in our community. A profile gives the reader insight about a person’s history, life, and personality. You’ll come up with a list of questions, do an interview, and then write a brief intro about them to set up your profile. Ask as many questions as you like, but in the end, you’ll edit them down to the top 5 questions and answers for your profile, and no more than 500 words. The example provided went through many drafts, starting with 750 words to its current 455. STEPS: How to write a compelling profile. Step One: Pick a family member, close friend or community member whose character fascinates you in some way. Step Two: Start by writing down some notes on this person. What makes them interesting? Think about everything you know about this person. Now imagine all the things you don’t know yet. That’s where the fun is. This challenge will help you learn more about someone you already think you knew. Step Three: Next you’ll brainstorm your list of questions. Write down any and all that come to mind. What would you ask to learn more about them? (i.e. What is your favourite childhood memory?). What would you ask to ‘really’ get to know this person? (i.e. What’s one thing about you that surprises people? ). What would you ask where they really have to think about their answers? (i.e. What are you most grateful for today, and why?). Step Four: Interview your subject. You can have a Zoom chat, a phone conversation, or you can email them your list of questions. Just remember if you’re doing the interview in person (or remotely) you’ll have to record the interview so you can playback the interview later when writing. Step Five: Read over the transcript of your interview (or emailed answers). Decide what story you want to tell about this person. Look for common themes or thoughts in their answers. Step Six: Time to Edit. You’ll take your long list of questions and answers and carefully select 5 that best tell the story you want to tell. Your profile will go through many drafts as you edit, and edit again. You can use your creative license here. If an answer runs on too long, you can cut it short. Just keep in mind, you cannot change or rearrange their words. We’re just editing, not rewriting. Step Seven: Feel free to get creative with your layout. One example is to use a ‘pull quote’. This is a quote taken from one of your subject’s original answers, but not used as one of your top 5. It can be used to further help tell the story of this person, as well as a design element in your profile. My example uses a pull-quote to caption the photograph of my subject, but you can also use it in the middle of your profile to break up the text. Step Eight: Write a brief introduction to your profile. This is where you tell us who this person is so we know who we’ll be reading about. You can include some information here you learned from your original list of questions. And then you’re done. I can’t wait to read all your creative profiles. TIPS: • Ask unexpected questions. • Sometimes just asking ‘why?” will give you further insight. • Avoid yes or no questions. Instead of ‘Do you like dogs?’ use ‘What do you like most about dogs?’ • Be a good listener so you can ask follow-up questions (don’t just stick to your list of questions) • Let your subject do most of the talking.

MY EXAMPLE: The example below started as a list of 15 questions. I wrote down notes on everything I knew about this person and focused on what I found the most interesting. When writing the profile, I focused on common themes to connect the questions/answers, and rearranged the order so they flowed easily into the next. Once I decided on my final 5 questions, I edited the answers for brevity. I chose to include a snapshot of my subject with a pull-quote for a more creative layout.

NEAL CONNOLLY: A PROFILE Meet Neal. You may know him as ‘Neal from the 100 Mile’, a shop he’s managed for the past 3 years, or as a member of your book club, or as that friendly guy who says hi to you on the street. Always smiling, lending a hand, or offering up great food advice, this former science teacher is a friend to many and a true community citizen. Did you grow up on a farm? In the ‘70's my parents were part of the back-to-theland movement and had a mixed farm in Eastern Ontario between Smith's Falls and Brockville. I spent just enough of my formative years on the farm to form some romantic notions that have taken years to dis-abuse. The land I'm on now in Mulmur has a farm name on the mailbox, a kitchen garden, several horses and house pets. The way I figure, gardening for household “I am not, nor have I ever been a farmer. use and farming to sell a crop are different, At most, I’ve been a good farm-hand. but no less valid ways of growing. Plaid shirts and a worn baseball cap (my usual outfit) - do not a farmer make. I How did you go from teaching high school respect farmers, who bank their livelihood science and biology in Windsor, ON to managing on working the land well.” a local food store in Creemore? Burn-out, then years of therapeutic farm work as a recovering academic while looking after my mother who had leukemia. Then meeting someone and wanting to start a family. Knowing farm work wasn't going to be a financially rewarding, life-long profession as much as I liked the work itself - I kept an eye out for something else.

Last week’s challenge Mandala Submissions

Why is food so important to you? The easiest way for me to improve things is through food - immediate and tangible things like my own health, the health of my family, and my community. Whether sharing recipes, talking about vegetable gardens, preserving, or discussing "big picture" food politics. Also, I just really enjoy cooking and eating delicious, well prepared foods. Simple pleasures are the best.

What do you love the most about your job? The customers are the best part. Every day there are good conversations about food or local happenings. The other day a customer • And remember, like any story, your profile needs a beginning, and I found out we shared the same simple experience of taking the time to go outside a middle and an end. to watch the sunrise that morning with our If you have any questions or daughters. It was a nice moment.

Eric King

comments please email Rina at rina_barone@hotmail.com What does community mean to you? People

Support Local arts and heritage initiatives like this!

Visit www.phahs.ca

sharing a common goal or interest - like a love of good food. Though I live in Mulmur, I've really enjoyed being a small part of the Creemore community. It's a warm and welcoming place. This interview has been condensed and edited.

Sofia Boyd

T:5" THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021 •

Youth Centre opens Feb. 22, attendance capped at 10 The Clearview Youth Centre will reopen to Clearview youth on Monday, Feb. 22. The centre will reopen three nights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a maximum capacity of 10 youth. The centre continues to implement safety procedures and guidelines as required by the province and the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. The Youth Centre’s capacity, facility cleaning procedures, programming and weekly schedule have been altered to meet the guidelines established by the province under the Red/Control threshold of the COVID-19 response framework: keeping Ontario safe and open.

Both staff and youth will be screened for symptoms of COVID-19 before being allowed entry, are required to wear a face covering, sanitize their hands before entering, and leave contact information for contact tracing. Once inside youth will be assigned to one of two spaces, each with a dedicated bathroom, where they will physically distance from one another for the duration of their visit. For those not comfortable with attending the Youth Centre the activity kits will continue to be offered. The Youth Centre looks forward to safely serving our community’s youth. For more information, or to request an activity kit, visit www. discoverclearview.ca/youth-centre.

Follow guidelines while enjoying conservation areas cans. Each week, a team gathers up garbage bags full of dog poop from the trails. One of nature’s wonders is the beauty of frozen ponds, rivers and streams. While it is tempting to walk, skate or play on the ice, NVCA would like to send a stark reminder for visitors to stay off the ice. Even if the weather has been cold, other factors such as water flow, fluctuating water levels, and snow on the ice can contribute to unsafe conditions. Lastly, visitors are urged to follow public health guidelines when visiting conservation areas, including group gathering limits, staying two metres apart and wearing masks. For more information, visit www. nvca.on.ca.

A harmless coffee break can do more harm than you think.

Series aims to forge path towards resilient, inclusive, safe, and sustainable Southern Georgian Bay The Institute of Southern Georgian Bay is hosting a free discussion series continuing to November, entitled Our Sustainable Future: Get Inspired, Get Informed, Get to Work! The series is being implemented to ignite a regional sustainability vision, and facilitate the development of a guiding roadmap towards a more resilient, inclusive, safe, and sustainable Southern Georgian Bay. The fragmented and siloed practices of the past will no longer suffice for

today’s world. It is evident, and accentuated with COVID-19, that change is constant and it is happening at a frenetic pace. Speakers include: The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario; Brian Saunderson, Mayor of Collingwood; Sonya Skinner, Chief Administrative Officer, Collingwood; Shawn Everitt, Chief Administrative Officer, The Blue Mountains. To register, visit tisgb.com.

Wear a mask, wash your hands and physically distance to stop the spread of COVID-19. Learn more at ontario.ca/covid-19 Paid for by the Government of Ontario

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In the COVID-19 pandemic, NVCA’s conservation areas offers much solace for nature seekers. However, it is vital that families and pets are safe while enjoying the great outdoors. “NVCA manages 11 conservation areas in the Nottawasaga Valley Watershed,” said Byron Wesson, Director of Conservation Services at NVCA. “In the winter, they are great places to hike, snowshoe, bird watch or simply explore. We’re asking visitors to be considerate to others, the natural areas and wildlife while they’re there.” While some dogs are great listeners, others may harass wildlife or attack other dogs or small children while off leash. To be consistent, all dogs must be on leash while at NVCA’s conservation areas. Dog owners are also asked to place dog poop in available garbage

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021

Youth recreation fees reduced as organized sports resume Feb 8 council briefs

Clearview council has authorized the reduction of recreation fees for youth until August 31, if and when facilities are able to re-open. Terry Vachon, general manager of parks, culture and recreation proposed the 50 per cent reduction in fees to further support youth using recreation facilities during the pandemic. “The impact of COVID-19 has presented many challenges to all Clearview Township’s users and most importantly the youth and adolescence recreation programs,” reported Vachon. “Many organizations have been and are presently struggling with their enrolment number as well as being reduced to the amount of users that may be on an ice pad, cement pad or in a baseball/soccer field,” reported Vachon. “It is anticipated that the COVID-19 pandemic and its facility restrictions will continue to impact our

Clearview council members participate in a Feb. 8 council meeting via Zoom. users in the very near future as well as throughout the spring and summer months of 2021, it will equally have a negative impact on the summer programs.”

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.

SCHOOL CROSSING GUARDS Relief Positions

Clearview Township is seeking School Crossing Guards – Relief to begin as soon as possible to work in various locations within Clearview Township. Enjoy a light work schedule while earning some extra income. Clearview offers full and compensable training to all employees including on-line accessibility and safety training, hands-on and on-the-job training as well as a new employee orientation. Employees are paid their hourly rate of pay for participating in the training. Responsibilities - To safely assist children crossing the street, to and from school. - To be available Monday to Friday during the school year. Qualifications and Abilities required - Must be physically fit. - Able to work outside during adverse weather conditions. - Able to communicate with and direct children in a clear manner. - Must be able to provide a clean police background and vulnerable person’s check. - Possess 20/20 vision (with corrective lenses if needed). - Must have reliable transportation to crossing location. Wage: $20.74 per hour plus 4% vacation pay. Training: All required training and crossing guard apparel is provided by Clearview Township 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 # 2021-009 to Human Resources by February 26, 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

Duntroon speed limit Ian MacGregor was before council asking for support for a request directed to the County of Simcoe to reduce the speed limit on County Road 91 in Duntroon. He presented a petition signed by 34 concerned residents living on County Road 91 and Browns Boulevard, and 18 staff and parents at Duntroon Daycare calling for the speed limit to be lowered from 80 km/h to 50 km/h, beginning 400 metres east of Browns Boulevard. The addition of homes, the presence of the daycare centre, school bus stops and gravel trucks are all factors in the request. “Simcoe County needs to prioritize the safety concerns of our full-time residents, including children and taxpayers vs. the minor inconvenience to commercial trucks and motor vehicles en route elsewhere,” states the petition by the Duntroon citizen group. “We are asking that the speed limit change shift to the natural boundary of our community, rather than its current location, which sits right in the middle of our neighbourhood. The difference is only about half a kilometre, but the margin of safety would be huge.” Councillors acknowledged that it is a problem area and agreed to support the request at county council.

Updating agreements Clearview is entering into formal agreements with The Creemore Horticultural Society and the Clearview Chamber of Commerce. The Creemore Horticultural Society’s agreement was with the former Corporation of the Village of Creemore and had lapsed back in June 1976 and no other agreement has been enacted since. With the new Village Green being built by the Creemore Community Foundation, both organizations felt it was prudent to develop and execute a new 10-year agreement, reported staff. The agreement states that the Creemore Horticultural Society shall be granted full and unhindered use of the designated location, known as the Creemore Horticultural Gardens, in the said lands known as the Creemore Village Green for horticultural purposes

only, during the life of this agreement and that the Creemore Horticultural Society will have ownership of all the plants and corresponding materials on the site. The Hort Society will execute a separate operational agreement with the Creemore Community Foundation. The Stayner Chamber of Commerce recently changed their mandate and name to the Clearview Chamber of Commerce. Both Clearview Township staff and the Chamber of Commerce over the years have worked hand-in-hand without a formal agreement, said staff. As both organizations are growing together and taking on more and more projects and events, it has become prudent that an agreement be agreed upon to distant clear lines of communications and responsibility over township facilities, parks, lands and events.

Regional Mayors and CAOs Roundtable M a y o r D o u g M e a s u re s a n d Clearview’s yet-to-be-hired new CAO have been invited by Collingwood Mayor Brian Saunderson to join a Regional Mayors and CAO’s Roundtable to discuss local and regional issues. The goal is that mayors and CAOs from Clearview, Wasaga Beach, The Blue Mountains, and Grey Highlands will discuss and work collaboratively to address local and regional issues An inaugural meeting is being scheduled to discuss the format and a Terms of Reference.

Economic Development Advisory Committee Council approved three appointees to the township’s new Economic Development Advisory Committee during an in-camera session at the beginning of Monday’s meeting. Committee members include Judith Crawford, Jennifer White and Bill Roskar, with Deputy Mayor Barry Burton as council rep and Mayor Doug Measures as chair. The committee will also include a representative of the Clearview Chamber of Commerce and/ or the Creemore BIA.

Township fleet Clearview will be switching to a division of Enterprise to replace all of its light and medium duty fleet vehicles on a regular schedule. The plan is to cycle vehicles on a two-year schedule in order to maximize resale value, fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance costs and keep up with the latest safety standards. Fleet consultant Jonathan Segal said the Township of Clearview will be able to replace all its vehicles over the course of two years while coming out with an estimated annual savings of $19,614. “The way we get there is by essentially leveraging the government purchasing power that the Township of Clearview has…” said Segal, and leveraging the resale market through Enterprise.

THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021 •

Music, art therapy programs for people living with dementia The Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County (ASSC) is leading the way with music and art therapy programs for people living with dementia. ASSC is currently offering two programs that are music based, and is very pleased to announce the addition of Creative Connections, a new program beginning March 2 in partnership with Quest Art School and Gallery. Creative Connections will provide people with dementia the opportunity to explore their artistic talent using a variety of art forms including painting, crafting and reflective journalling. “Quest Art believes strongly in the power of art as a means of creating connections and we are very happy to be partnering with ASSC to provide this program, especially at a time when many people are dealing with isolation,” says Victoria Eichorn, Executive Director and Curator, Quest Art. “Quest Art advocates for the many benefits that art provides for individuals spanning all ages and abilities. We recognize the significance of art as an important means of social engagement and connection, providing benefits that affect individuals mentally, emotionally and physically,” says Eichhorn. The Alzheimer Society Music Project reconnects

FUN &

Games

Sudoku Barbara Simpson by

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Answers on page 11

FRED’S FUNNIES A skeleton walks 8 4into 2 a3 bar. 5 1 6

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people with the soundtrack of their lives by providing music players loaded with personalized music to people living with dementia. Listening to personalized music can be a powerful activity for those with dementia: music has the potential to increase physical and social activity; reignite older memories; and improve sleep, mood, cognition, communication, and overall quality of life. Visit musicproject.ca to apply. Musical Memories provides online music sessions for people living with dementia and their care partners. This program is offered in partnership with Music Therapy Services of Simcoe County (MTSSC) where participants receive a small percussive instrument to use while playing music with friends, family and care partners. MTSSC owner and director Heidi Flynn says, “We are so happy to be partnering with the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County to connect seniors in our community with music. These online group sessions have offered participants the opportunity to express themselves, engage with others socially and experience feelings of wellness.”

Sessions will run through March 24. “The Musical Memories program fills up very quickly and we expect the same for Creative Connections. Music and Art programs provide opportunities for people living with dementia to connect with others and express themselves. During a time when contact with others is limited, these types of programs can help to enrich their lives, boost mood and self-esteem,” says Laura-Lynn Bourassa, ASSC Manager of Education and Support Programs. “Many of our clients say that our Music Project and the Musical Memories program provide peace and calm while navigating the symptoms of dementia,” says Bourassa. All programs offered by the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County are free of charge with a wide range of services being offered to people living with dementia, their care partners, friends and families and the community at large. Since the beginning of the pandemic in person programs have successfully transitioned to online sessions. For more information and registration for both programs, contact Taryl Bougie at 705-795-6259 or email taryl.bougie@alzheimer.ca.

Canadian Criss Cross ACROSS 1. Rock band equipment 5. Flatfish 8. The majority of 12. Make a hole with a drill 13. Computer language 14. Friendly country 15. He played Relic on “The Beachcombers” 17. Short part of a film 18. Fourth Greek letters 19. See connections between 21. Electrically charged atom 22. Having to do with men and boys 23. ___ Leppard 25. Unauthorized imitations 30. English author 32. Kind 33. Song for two singers 34. Dish of corn and beans 37. Marshal of France 38. German man 39. ___ rule 41. Spanish dance 44. The ___ Dodger “Oliver Twist” character 47. Morally bad 48. Hamlet’s mother 50. Monopoly card 51. Unit of work 52. Town on the Thames 53. Formerly 54. Recent prefix 55. Tighten the spring of a clock

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2/21 DOWN 1. “The Alphabet Song” opening 2. Animal that lives underground 3. Creating new works in abundance 4. Brief fight 5. Raised platform 6. Fruit drink 7. Soldiers’ quarters 8. Fort ___, Alberta 9. Earthenware pot 10. Skirt feature 11. Use a keyboard 16. Ball of wool 20. Large-antlered deer 22. Back tooth 23. German article 24. Flightless bird

26. Colourless odourless gas 27. Capital of Tuvalu 28. Payment for professional services 29. Place for pigs 31. River in Europe 35. Poetic contraction 36. Male red deer 40. Spread over a wide area 41. “Adam ___” 42. Higher up 43. Falsehoods 44. Jason’s ship 45. Japanese noodle 46. Give money that must be paid back 49. Before

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19 , 2021

Collingwood participates in wastewater surveillance The Town of Collingwood has collected its first set of samples as part of the Ontario Wastewater Surveillance Initiative. This effort to assist Ontario’s COVID-19 Preparedness Plan is an attempt to quickly identify, manage, and prevent outbreaks of COVID-19. Since many individuals who may be carrying COVID-19 are asymptomatic, they may not be getting tested. Delays in testing, and receiving results, for individuals who are showing symptoms makes collecting and testing wastewater a quicker way to detect if COVID-19 is present in a community. Scientific studies have shown that people with active COVID-19 infections shed the virus in their stool, sometimes even before symptoms start. This has prompted the international rise of WastewaterBased Epidemiology (WBE) to monitor the presence of coronavirus genetic material (RNA) in wastewater

as another screening tool to help identify the community spread of COVID-19. With Ontario in the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the province is exploring ways to monitor the presence of COVID-19 in a community even if people are not showing symptoms. As such, the province has decided to invest over $12 million in a wastewater surveillance initiative in Ontario. They reached out to the Town of Collingwood to participate in this program where staff will collect and submit a weekly wastewater sample for analysis for the coronavirus RNA. This sampling program allows health care professionals to track the increasing or decreasing trend of COVID-19 in Collingwood and implement proactive controls, if required. As the program progresses, sampling frequency from the Collingwood wastewater treatment plant may increase by up to three times per week.

“We are very excited to be participating in this innovative program and doing what we can to help the local health care professionals respond to this global pandemic,” said manager of environmental services Heather McGinnity. The wastewater samples are collected from an automated composite sampler at the headworks of the wastewater treatment plant. Staff retrieve the sample from the composite sampler, mix it well, pour 200 mL into a polypropylene bottle and then courier the sample to the laboratory for analysis. Although there is no epidemiological evidence that wastewater is a route of transmission of COVID-19, staff wear latex gloves, goggles and a ventilator as a precaution when collecting these samples. Collingwood is among several other SimcoeMuskoka municipalities participating in the initiative, including Barrie, Orillia and Midland.

Paramedics on the frontlines of emergency response

This week's COVID-19 update from Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, and during this heightened second wave, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services have been on the frontlines responding to the needs of residents, communities and partners. Providing medical care and transport during 9-1-1 calls continues to be the main priority for Paramedic Services; however, during the pandemic Paramedics have expanded their roles and utilized their training and skillset to support our regional pandemic response needs. Since the beginning of the pandemic, paramedics have been providing assistance with swabbing and patient management needs in congregate settings, such as workplaces, long-term care and seniors services facilities, conducting wellness checks in area shelters, providing emergency transport of COVID-19 positive patients, working with area health-care teams in vaccination clinics and expanding in-home wellness checks through the innovative community paramedicine programs. Logistics staff have also extended themselves to support our long-term care homes with PPE management. “The response of our paramedic staff to the pandemic has been extraordinary,” said Andrew Robert, director and chief of County of Simcoe Paramedic Services. “Their roles are challenging at the best of times and dealing with added pressures of the pandemic, and safety measures of being in close contact with COVID-19 positive patients, has been very tough on their physical and mental health. I am very proud and grateful to them for their efforts,

• To date 168 local cases have been tested positive for the COVID-19 variant of concern UK B.1.1.7 and an additional 156 cases have screened positive (awaiting confirmatory testing) • Over 29,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine have been administered in Simcoe Muskoka, mainly to health care workers in local hospitals, long-term care and retirement homes. This includes more than 12,500 individuals that have received both of the required doses of the vaccine. In addition, 2,942 (or 92 per cent) long-term care residents and 2,523 (or 69 per cent) retirement home residents have received their first dose. • There have been 125 new cases reported to the health unit for the current week. There were 210 new cases reported to the health unit last week (week of Feb. 7), approximately 25 per cent lower than the 284 cases reported for the week of Jan. 31. • In the month of January 2021, 88 Simcoe Muskoka residents died from COVID-19, over four times higher than the number of deaths in December 2020 (18). There have been 24 COVID-19 related deaths so far in February. • The vast majority of COVID-19 cases in Simcoe Muskoka have recovered from the infection. • Most COVID-19 cases in Simcoe Muskoka are from the Barrie and South Simcoe areas. Click here to view the epidemic curve by municipality. • Seniors 80 years of age and older had the highest rate of infection in January, with over 90 per cent of these cases associated with an institutional outbreak. Young adults (18-34 years) have the highest rate of infection so far in February.

adaptability and drive to support their patients and community. All our front-line staff are thankful for the public support they have received. We greatly appreciate how our partners and communities continue to support one another as we all work to end this pandemic.” County of Simcoe Paramedic Services (CSPS) is pleased to have received additional one-time funding in the amount of $456,008 from Local Health Integration Networks (LHINs) in relation to the COVID-19 response. This funding will support pandemic activities, such as vaccine administration, existing Community Paramedicine (CP) program expansion and CP education development within Simcoe County. The funding was split between three payments from the Central and North Simcoe Muskoka LHINs and will allow future program growth and sustainability at a crucial time. This funding will be reviewed further by County Council on Feb. 9. “The support and service of our paramedics is a cornerstone in our fight against COVID-19 and our eventual recovery,” said Warden George Cornell. “We are immensely grateful to our Paramedics, and we continue to work with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit and the province to ensure that paramedics are prioritized in the roll out of vaccinations due to their expanded role during this pandemic. We also thank the province for these additional funds, which will assist the county in providing the necessary increased training, staffing, equipment and administration costs to keep our communities safe.”

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ECHO Classifieds

THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 2021 •

FOR SALE

CELEBRATIONS

SEASONED FIREWOOD. Sold as bush cord. Call 705-627-2676.

Congratulations! ALYSON MCQUEEN B.Sc.N has been granted the degree of "Master of Health Studies" given at Athabasca University Jan. 13th, 2021. Way to go Mom! Love Zoey and Ruby

DINING

DIRECT

705 444 9081 OFFICE

JUNE HARTLEY

Happy 90th Birthday on February 20th

Much Love, Geoff, Janet, Gina, Joey, Cooper, Kessa, Stella, Shayla, Aaron, Gillian and Coco.

THANK YOU

I wish to extend a huge thank you to the EMTs, nursing staff and doctors who attended to me during my stay in Collingwood hospital and to all who sent well wishes during my recovery. Willy Verstegen

We do colour copies! And we do faxes!

LOST ITEM

LOST iPHONE 10 on Mill St. If found please call Jason 705-441-3222.

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.”

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hamiltonbros@ultrafastwireless.com 2047 Glen Huron Rd, Glen Huron

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IN MEMORIAM

In loving memory of Florence Clarke. A dear aunt who passed away on Feb. 21, 2001. Tenderly we treasure the past, with memories that always last. Lovingly remembered by Doug and Margaret.

Always At Your Service

Please help us in wishing our mom and grandma,

SERVICES

FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS at Creemore Bakery. Enjoy beer battered halibut, crispy fries and homemade coleslaw. Take-out only. Call 705-4665621.

DEATH NOTICE

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

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.

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.

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

Fran Webster

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.

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.

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RITCHIE, Frances Anne. At Norfolk General Hospital, Simcoe on Feb. 15, 2021 in her 83rd year. Wife of the Earl (2019) for 63 years. Loving mother of the late Terry (2020) (Audrey), Brian (the late Terry 2011), Wendy (Kent) and James (Brenda). Cherished grandmother of Kyle (Sarah), Tyler (Brittany), Adrian (Natasha), Angela (Alexis), Sheila (Jackson), Jeanelle, Taylor, Allie, Julia (Matthew) and the late Allan (2019). Great grandma of Cohen, Denver, Brody, Mackenzie, Jaxx, Scarlett, Raven, Emilia and Lydia. Also survived by sisters Joan Rawn and Shirley Ferguson. Predeceased by her brother Allan Robinson (2018) and survived by sister-in-law Jean. Visitation will be held at Fawcett Funeral Home – Creemore Chapel on Sunday Feb. 21, 2021 from 2 to 4 p.m. Due to Covid 19 restrictions the visitation will be by appointment please RSVP through the Fawcett Funeral Home website – www. fawcettfuneralhomes.com should you wish to attend. Spring interment at Creemore Union Cemetery. Memorial donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or The Lung Association would be appreciated.

705 445 5454 EMAIL

websterfh@gmail.com

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

Breedon’s Automotive 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

• THE CREEMORE ECHO • Friday, February 19, 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.

DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF

COMMUNITY MAINTENANCE AND BEAUTIFICATION LABOURER

Clearview Township is located in a region that has a long history as one of Ontario’s favorite tourist and vacation destinations, attracting over 2 million visitors annually. Our community offers all the modern urban amenities with the attractiveness and friendly charm of small-town quality of life.

Temporary Full-time

permanent full-time Deputy Fire Chief

Qualifications: Recognized degree or diploma in Business Management Studies and or Public Administration with 5 to 10 years related experience plus up to 3 years supervisory experience. In addition, NFPA 1001 (Fire Fighter 1), NFPA 1021 (Fire Officer 1), Community Management Coordinator (C.E.M.C) designation from Emergency Management Ontario and a valid DZ Driver’s Licence. Responsibilities: Reporting to the Fire Chief, the Deputy Fire Chief participates in the direction and supervision of the department, supervising the day-to-day activities ensuring that delegated statutory responsibilities are carried out in accordance with applicable legislation, corporate and or departmental policies and procedures. The preferred candidate will posses a thorough knowledge of Fire Suppression and Fire Training and development functions. As well, they will have extensive experience in coordinating staff resources, recruitment, all fire training, and scheduling of staff as well as requisitions departmental supplies, testing and care of equipment and related records. Experience and proven ability in Fire Suppression, Fire Prevention and inspection procedures, health and safety, labour relations, and computer skills. In addition, the candidate will have excellent customer service, interpersonal, project/time management, problem solving, and presentation and communication skills. This position requires an active on-call schedule rotation, after hours work and weekend work will be required. The successful applicant will be required to be available in a timely manner when on-call and shall reside in reasonable proximity to the township’s borders.

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 $82,555 to $100,354 per year plus a competitive benefits package.

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 - 010 to Human Resources by February 26, 2021 to: hr@clearview.ca

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

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).

**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

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