December 9, 2022

Community eager to support those impacted by fire

by Trina Berlo

In the aftermath of a devastating fire in Creemore last Thursday, the community has been eager to help those displaced.

An early morning fire at 157 Mill Street rendered the building uninhabitable and displaced the tenants of six apartments and one restaurant.

In the past week the community has been asking how to get help to those impacted.

Everyone escaped the fire and found temporary shelter. Angie Cormier is one of the residents ousted by the fire. She said she was getting ready to go back to bed just after 1:30 a.m. on Dec. 1 when her neighbour Krista Mercier came through her door to get her out, saving her life.

Cormier is hearing impaired and had taken out her hearing aids. She couldn’t hear the fire alarm, or her neighbour knocking, but luckily she had left her door unlocked.

“I don’t want to think about how close I was to death,” she said.

She said Mercier urged her to go down the street to her aunt and uncle’s house, where she has been taking refuge ever since.

Cormier said she is taking it day to day. She has been missing her art supplies, because colouring is how she relaxes and eases her anxiety. She has

had some supplies donated – along with some clothing and other necessities from the team at St. Luke’s.

She is thrilled that some of her personal items were recovered from her apartment undamaged, including her

baby book and family photographs. She is very sad that the ashes of her parents and pets have not yet been recovered.

Cormier said she is grateful to be staying with her closest family, Chris and Koni Jones, but is so sad to have lost her home of two years.

She is on a limited income and has no insurance so replacing items, including her personal documents, one hearing aid and the contents of her purse, is a challenge.

Cormier’s family has history in Creemore and she is very grateful for all the support she has received from the community. She hopes to find another place to live in the area.

“I want to put down roots here but it’s hard. People don’t want to rent to people on ODSP,” she said.

She is so grateful to her family, St. Luke’s and Krista, who proceeded to alerted the other residents to the fire.

“I appreciate everyone for the help and support,” said Cormier. “It means the world to me.”

A Go Fund Me campaign was launched by Creemore resident Scott LeBlanc and has already surpassed its goal of $10,000.

LeBlanc said after the fire he was reading Facebook posts about people wanting to donate and, with some other community members, a decision was

(See “Campaign” on page 3)

Plan to increase sewage treatment capacity underway

by Trina Berlo

The community was invited to the Creemore arena Dec. 1 for an initial information session about the Water and Wastewater Master Servicing Plan for the Village of Creemore.

R.J. Burnside & Associates has been contracted to create a high level plan for the long-term drinking water and sanitary wastewater servicing needs for Creemore and surrounding potential development opportunities.

The Master Plan will identify

a set of recommended water and wastewater servicing improvements and will consider the needs of both existing serviced areas and areas of future growth up to 2042 and beyond. Once solutions are identified, recommendations will go to council for final approval and budget considerations. Clearview Township director of public works Mike Rawn said once solutions are identified, construction would begin within one year to 18 months.

A group of developers that are hoping to build in Creemore have agreed to pay for the study, at a cost of $351,000.

Creemore has sufficient water supply to accommodate projected growth but the wastewater treatment plant is underperforming due to limitations of the membrane filtration system and the high strength of discharge from Creemore Springs Brewery. Any available sewage treatment capacity has already been

allocated to development projects, prompting developers to look for solutions for freeing up more capacity.

All the information is posted at www. clearview.ca/news-events-meetings/ special-projects/creemore-water-andwastewater-master-servicing-plan. The public is invited to comment by email or mail by Jan. 13.

In the spring there will be a second public information session when the community will be invited to consider proposed solutions.

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Investigators have been at the scene of a Dec. 1 fire at 157 Mill St. in Creemore all week. Above: Firefighters continue their efforts last Friday evening.

Friday, Dec. 9

• Holiday pop up market New Lowell Central Public School, 5197 County Road 9. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Browse for those hard to buy for people on your list. Free entry, with gift wrapping and child care available.

• Station on the Green is hosting a movie night featuring the seasonal classic A Christmas Story from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tickets: $2.50 each or $10 for a family/party of five, available at the Station Cafe, Creemore Farmers' Market or text Beth at 905-717-6123. Snacks and treats will be available to purchase with cash.

Saturday, Dec. 10

• Stayner Legion, Branch 457 is hosting a Craft and Bake Sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come check out the unique handmade gifts and delicious baked goods!

• Creemore Coyotes vs Saugeen Shores Winterhawks 7:30 p.m. at the Creemore arena. Weekly schedule at www.creemorecoyotes.com. Game admission costs $10 for adults, and $8 for seniors. This week a portion of the door sale will be donated to those effected by the fire on Mill Street.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mondays, Dec. 12, 19

• Meditation Mondays drop-in group Singing Bowl sessions at Station on the Green. Reset to inner peace. Bring a yoga mat, pillow and blanket, or comfy folding chair. Dec. 19: 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Dec. 12: 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. $15-$20 or PWYC.

Tuesday, Dec. 13

• Parent and tot skating at the Creemore arena. 10:30 a.m. to 11 30 a.m.

• Adult skating at the Creemore arena. 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 16

• Free Public Skate 4:30 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. sponsored by Caroline McIntosh Real Estate.

Sunday, Dec. 25

• Creemore Community Christmas Dinner 4:30 p.m. at the Creemore Legion, pay what you can. Everyone welcome to dine and/or volunteer. Donation of non-perishable food item appreciated. Contact Donna at 705-466-2523 or CreemoreChristmasElf@gmail.com to reserve your seat or make special arrangements. For more information see www.CreemoreChristmas.ca.

Submit your community events info@creemore.com phone: 705-466-9906 fax: 705-466-9908

Saturday, Jan. 21

• Creemore Farmers' Market Bread Contest. Bring your loaf of bread (yeast bread) to the market by 9 a.m. for judging by the community. Categories include: White bread, Other breads - rye, dark, sourdough, etc., Gluten free bread, Pastry such as croissants, bagels, donuts, etc., but, must be yeast based.

Saturday, Feb. 18

• Winter is a Drag but the Queens are back to warm it up! Enjoy music and fun with some of Simcoe County's finest drag performers while helping to raise money for Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society. Money raised from ticket sales will be used for the 2023 Creemore Festival of the Arts programming and other arts and history initiatives in the community. Money raised at the bar will support the Creemore Legion. Tickets $25 on sale now at www.phahs.ca.

Clearview council members swear oaths of office

by Trina Berlo

It was a proud day for Robert McArthur, who was sworn in Monday as Clearview Township council member for the Creemore area.

Tearing up, McArthur said he was proud to be following in the footsteps of his father Milton McArthur, who was the first deputy mayor of the township at the time of amalgamation in 1994.

“It is a privilege to be here tonight,” said McArthur. “I hope to do you all proud for the next four years.”

Bagpiper Ken Parton led the procession of council members into the arena hall in Stayner Dec. 5 before they took their oaths in front of an audience of family, friends and guests representing municipal partners and neighbouring municipalities.

Former Mayor Ken Ferguson addressed the newly elected members, calling them a “good looking council.”

He said as mayor he always wanted healthy debate, saying at the end of the day, council has to work as a team.

His advice is to focus on core services and protect farmland, commenting that he is very proud to see two farmers on council – McArthur and deputy mayor Paul Van Staveren

“I know what council gives up as far as family life and family is the most important thing,” said Ferguson.

Van Staveren thanked Ferguson for his remarks.

“We have a good group and we want to have fun too,” he said. “We will bring the interests of people to the forefront. It’s going to be a challenge but that’s what life’s all about.”

Doug Measures was presented the

chain of office by his wife Tracey and was presented with the mayor’s gavel by interim clerk Barbara Kane

Measures noted his swearing in is happening at a time in life that has both highs and lows saying he is fighting cancer and was honoured to have his family present, with the exception of his daughter-in-law who was home with his new grandchild.

He said his three goals are to be accessible to the public, renew the township’s strategic plan, and stay engaged with the changes happening in the world.

“I’m really pleased with this team,” said Measures. “They are going to serve us well for the next four years.”

Thirty-one year council veteran Robert Walker said he is excited to be back.

“Council has paved the road for this council and it’s nice to be back on that road and move forward,” said Walker, saying that council is part of Team Clearview, along with staff and professionals.

“We need to believe in our staff and in ourselves,” said Walker. “We’re going to set this world on fire. To the rest of the communities, look out!”

John Broderick said he too is excited about the next term of council, and is very happy to see agriculture represented.

Phyllis Dineen , returning for a second term said she would miss the outgoing council members, many of whom were present for the ceremony.

“The honeymoon is over,” said Marty Beelen. “We are going to have to start doing some work.”

Campaigns launched to support tenants

made to launch the Go Fund Me page.

“I saw people were wanting to help and were looking for ways to collect funds,” said LeBlanc. He said this is something he could do and he was willing to be the one to do it.

The campaign is ongoing and but an initial payout is in the process of being dispensed to the occupants of all units.

Lorna May and her team at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, is also working to provide people with immediate needs. Donations of money and gift cards are being accepted through the church’s discretionary fund.

The Creemore BIA is spearheading a separate fundraiser for Otta Zapotocky, owner of La Cucina restaurant, who has learned that he doesn’t have business interruption insurance to cover loss of income.

“Thank you to everyone for all the support and for keeping our spirits up,” said Zapotocky.

La Cucina will be doing a pop up breakfast at Station on the Green this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This Saturday’s Creemore Coyotes

hockey game will be in support of those affected by the fire. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales and funds collected in jars at the door and in the booster club bar area collected on behalf of those displaced.

To donate:

St Luke’s

Make cheques payable to St. Luke's Anglican Church re: discretionary funds/fire. Receipts will be given for donations of $20 or more (include address). Anyone in need of assistance is encouraged to call Lorna May at 705352-2759. Donations of cash, cheques and gift cards can also be dropped off at the church on Friday mornings, or at The Creemore Echo

Go Fund Me

Creemore Fire Fundraiser https://www.gofundme.com/f/ creemore-fire-fundraiser

Go Fund Me

La Cucina Fire Relief Fund https://gofund.me/663dabd5

•

Compliments of Jeff White Photography

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Staff photo: Trina Berlo Clearview council: Mayor Doug Measures (front left), Deputy Mayor Paul Van Staveren (front right). Back row: Phyllis Dineen, Marty Beelen, Robert Walker, Robert McArthur, John Broderick. Below, left. The mayor is presented the chain office by his wife Tracey Measures. Belo, right: McArthur points to a 1994 photo of his father Milton McArthur, who was deputy mayor of Clearview at the time of amalgamation.

102 Edward St. E, Creemore

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

THE WAY WE WERE COLUMN

Healthy from the inside out

MATTERS

With the seasons having changed our skin is going through some significant changes. In winter months, our skin requires more hydration and there are many products to support this. But what is responsible for skin changes form an internal perspective? I want to expand on this as there are two organ systems that are accountable for that healthy glow – the liver, and the digestive tract. Fortunately, we can support healthy skin from the inside out.

The liver is responsible for clearing toxicity from the body. When the liver is struggling, often skin imbalances can occur. Here are ways to support the liver and, in turn, healthy skin:

1. Lemon water in the morning – this stimulates the liver, and begins processing toxins first thing in the morning.

2. Address medications and dosages – if the liver is overloaded with medications and/or supplements, it can become sluggish with its processing abilities. Be sure you are taking all medications/supplements at the correct dose, and that you actually need that medication to function optimally.

3. Detoxify your personal care products – as the liver processes all the toxic ingredients that we put on our bodies, it is important to decrease its toxic load for optimal function. Make sure that what you put on your body is natural and doesn’t contain hormone disrupting chemicals.

4. Herbs to support the liver – herbs that I use personally and in practice are Milk Thistle, Dandelion, Globe Artichoke and Rosemary. You can take these in tincture or supplement form.

The GI tract is responsible for eliminating waste from the liver. It is important that bowel movements are regular and that excretion is happening efficiently, in order to keep you skin looking healthy and clear. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial to not only the operation of digestion but also the health of the skin. Here are some tips for keeping your GI tract operating optimally:

1. A good probiotic - I frequently use probiotics in practice with patients. It is the best way to reestablish a healthy microbiome. For skin health, it is good to use a multi strain probiotic that is at leas 25 billion CFU.

2. Eat fermented foods – this helps the healthy bacteria colonize and flourish. Foods good for this are kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, tempeh, miso, kombucha etc.

3. Eliminating gluten – this is not for everyone but shows great effects on the skin. Gluten can act as a gastrointestinal disruptor and make it hard to process and eliminate foods properly. This can show on the skin as eczema, psoriasis, acne, rosacea and redness.

By supporting the liver and the digestive tract, you will see long lasting benefits – the skin is an expression of what is going on on the inside!

Rogue billboards growing like weeds

Editor:

There is a growing scourge in Ontario’s countryside that no one is talking about.

We may have come to accept, begrudgingly, the permanent billboards we have grown up with as their number and location are regulated.

But it’s not those billboards I am concerned about. It’s the thousands of rogue billboards that are growing like weeds on every highway in our region.

These rogue billboards are mounted on old transport trailers or farm trailers and are hauled into position on farm fields facing many of our roads and highways. It seems that these companies or individuals have found a loophole that allows them, with the landowner’s permission, to “temporarily” position a truck trailer or farm wagon and sell the advertising space to businesses.

In fact, these rogue billboards are illegal. Commercial billboard locations must be approved by the province, municipality or county. Conversely

these rogue billboards have been approved by no one. No level of government is cracking down on this proliferation of these illegal billboards that are visually polluting our countryside.

Once the Ministry of Transportation gets a complaint and gives the rogue billboard owner notice to move or come down, it is either ignored or the trailer is moved a few feet and the illegal signage continues.

Put simply, rogue billboards are an enforcement issue, and no one is doing anything to curb this growing blight. Next time you are on our highways and byways count the number of rogue billboards that you see as they are increasing in number every day.

It’s time for our local politicians to ask the MTO to enforce the rules before the farm fields of Ontario begin to look like the worst of urban sprawl.

Jeff Shearer, Nottawa

The Creemore Echo is published every Friday and distributed free locally.

Editorial and advertising material deadline is Tuesday at 5 p.m. Letters to the editor should be sent to editor@creemore.com. We reserve the right to edit letters for length and clarity. 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.

EDITOR

Trina Berlo trina@creemore.com

PUBLISHER Sara Hershoff

Bonnie MacPherson bonnie@creemore.com

Kate Hunter is a naturopathic doctor and owner of The Creemore Apothecary.

Kate HUNTER HEALTH

LETTER

A bird's eye view of the 1981 Santa Claus Parade in Creemore.

Editor:

I played hockey until I was sidelined at the age of 70 by the ravages of time, so now I enjoy vicariously by watching my grandson and the Creemore Coyotes play, and the very occasional Leafs game.

Courtesy of a friend I was at the Borja Salming tribute night, I have never seen so many beer drinking males teary eyed. It was good professional hockey, but in reality no more exciting than Saturday’s Coyotes game.

At the Leafs game we were in the greens at $280 per ticket and so far up I saw a flock of geese fly by just below us. Between periods we had two small beef sandwiches and two Cokes that cost $65, (Cokes cost $9, hot dogs $18). If we’d had a couple of beer with tax north of $100. We took the subway (no parking fees), so I estimate that all-in a family of four would need $1,250+ to see a Leafs game.

Now back to last Saturday’s Coyotes game, exciting hockey and we won. Tickets cost $10-$8-$5-free depending on age and every seat is close to the action. As for refreshments, popcorn costs $2, beer $5, Coke $1, fries with gravy $5, and free parking. So I estimate a family of four would need less than $50 to go to a Coyotes game, that’s four per cent of the cost of a Leafs game.

Great entertainment, great price, so there’s no reason the arena shouldn’t be packed, so this Saturday let’s get out there and support the local boys and have some fun, and try the fries and gravy.

Georgian Good Food Box program offered at Creemore library

How do you feed a club full of hungry hangar rats on a strict budget with only a fridge and utility BBQ at hand at the Aerodrome?

LIBRARY NEWS

Editor:

I have asked MPP Brian Saunderson to attend a town hall meeting on Dec. 12.

Many of the staff have questions on how Bill 23 will affect their job status.

The township would like suggestions on how to recover lost development fees.

Residents would like to know exactly the cost and square footage of “affordable housing.” How can we coax competent developers to accept lower returns on their investments. How many affordable homes can Clearview commit to build and service in the next three year?

I would hope that the council would give Brian the opportunity to address these issues.

Ted McGovern Stayner

Send letters to the editor to editor@creemore. com. All letters must be signed with the writer's fullnameandincludeaphonenumber(whichwill notbeprinted.)Deadlineis5p.m.onTuesdays.

May I suggest that you invest in a Georgian Good Food Box, available for pick up at the Creemore Branch of the Clearview Public Library. This is a regular monthly service offered by your library with the process starting with you ordering your GGFB by the first Wednesday of the month for pick up by the third Wednesday of the month (order at the circulation desk or check out www.ggfb.ca or email gfoodbox@gmail.com). Your GGFB always includes bags of potatoes, onions, carrots and apples and then the surprises come with assortment of fruits and veggies that complete the

pack.

Please contact Carol Marsden at 705-428-3945 to order your Georgian Good Food Box by the first Wednesday of the month and for pick up on the third Wednesday of the month. We here at the Creemore Branch of the Clearview Public Library are also happy to receive your orders at the circulation desk.

The GGFB provides excellent value for $18/bag of fruits and vegetables and the library has plenty of cookbooks to draw inspiration from to freshen up your dinner menus. We do provide “Great Food for Thought” in all manner of materials!

at

bFree Public Skating Fridays

We're back and ready for a happy holiday season

Allen Clarke, Mulmur.

Michele McKenzie is deputy CEO of Clearview Public Library.

With an accumulation of 131 years of combined service, Robert, Andy, Murray, Wally and Larry hold Harvey D. Lewis’s commemorative wreath before it goes into storage for next year’s Remembrance Day Celebrations.

The Tree Lighting held Dec. 2 was hosted by the Tree Society of Creemore and supported by many community partners including the Creemore Village Green, Station on the Green, Clearview firefighters, the Creemore Coyotes, the Websters, the de Ruiters, and many more.

THANK YOU PARADE VOLUNTEERS

The Creemore BIA would like to thank the Santa Claus Parade Committee Brendan Callery (Chair), Natalie deRuiter and Sara Hershoff as well as volunteers Keith Boulter, James Bruer, Jenn Hubbs, Jenn MacIntyre, Brian Doran, Bonnie MacPherson, John Millar, Steve Sopinka, Dave Herzog, Emie Dufour-Fortier, darci-que, Robert McArthur, emily-que and Jocelyn Young.

PARTICIPANTS

A heaping helping of gratitude to all the community groups, businesses and individuals who braved the elements to bring the parade to life. Thanks also to the Clearview Fire department, Clearview Township, Huronia West OPP and Santa Claus for providing their invaluable services.

BIA MEMBERS & DONORS

The parade is made possible thanks to financials contributions of the Creemore BIA, Epcor, Creemore Springs, and participating businesses.

THANKS LOCAL SHOPPERS

By supporting businesses in your community you make events such as the Santa Claus Parade possible!

@creemoreontario www.ExperienceCreemore.com

Staff photos: Trina Berlo

Creemore Curling Club standings

Ladies Team win-loss-tie

Verstegen 2-0-1

Fuller 2-1-0

Walker 2-2-0

Millsap 1-1-1

Crawford 0-3-0

From the Hack: Team Verstegen takes over the lead after an exciting back and forth game. Jaz managed to sneak her rock through a wall of guards for the win.

On Sheet 2, Angelina showing smooth delivery since attending a 4 day preseason clinic. Tied after 3 ends, Team Fuller sitting 4, and Heather threw

a beauty hit and roll to count. But Catherine soon took control of the rest of the game. Good curling by all!

Daytime

Team win-loss-tie

Coulter 7-0-1

Loranger 5-3-1 Martens 4-5-0 McDougall 3-6-0 Bell 2-7-0

From the Hack: The daytime curlers extend their deepest condolences to the family of Doug Quanbury, for their loss. Doug was a well-liked and valuable member of our league, and he will be

dearly missed.

Men Team win-loss-tie

Adam Verstegen 4-0-1

Gord Fuller 4-1-0

Howard Walker 4-1-0 Bill Neelin 3-2-0

Dave Millsap 2-3-0 Brian Wilson 1-3-1 Bill Hewitt 1-4-0 Phil Cober 0-5-0

From the Hack: Winners this week were teams Howard Walker, Brian Wilson, Bill Hewitt and Adam Verstegen.

Registration opens for Clearview’s 2023 Spring Fever 3 on 3 Youth Hockey Tournament

Clearview’s Parks, Culture and Recreation Department is excited to announce that registration for Clearview’s 2023 Spring Fever 3 on 3 Youth Hockey Tournament taking place March 31 to April 2.

After the success of this Spring’s Inaugural tournament, Terry Vachon, Director of Parks and Recreation is delighted to see the tournament return in 2023.

“It was incredible to see the participation this past Spring, and in 2023 we will have eight divisions in total, open for youth ages under 9 to

under 16. We look forward to seeing the tournament grow in 2023,” he said.

Teams will be made up of a minimum of seven and a maximum of 10 players per team, including the goaltender. The tournament guarantees four games and promises $5,000 in prizes, trophies and draws, and a great opportunity to play fast-paced hockey with your peers. Admission to watch the tournament will be free all weekend long.

“What a terrific opportunity for young hockey players to show us their skills,” said Mayor Doug Measures

“Clearview Township has a long heritage of great hockey, and our facilities are in great shape to host this event. We welcome players and fans from across Ontario to Clearview Township”.

Registration is on a first-come, first-paid basis with a maximum of six teams per division. Register a team for $600 before registration closes on March 14. All funds will be going towards recreation programming in Clearview Township.

For more information or to register, visit www.discoverclearview.ca/3on3.

Dec. 3

Coyotes Corner

Creemore 4 vs Durham 3

Creemore goal scorers: Ben Hughes, Derick Robertson with his first Senior A goal, Nick Sammons, and the game winning goal going to Orillia’s Kyle Heitzner.

Third win of the year for Ty Brindle 50/50 winner was Ron McDonald – $225.

Shoot the puck winner was Dylan Raeburn - DQ gift certificate

Howie’s hockey tape winner was Peter Doyle

Attendance: 180 Coyotes still holding down second place in the league with an 8 and 5 record (17 points)

Up next is a home and home with Saugeen Shores (Port Elgin) on Dec. 10.

More news and events online at Creemore.com

Scott Foodland

Miller’s Dairy and Giffen’s Market

Trina, Brodie and John for the sound and show Donna, Lisa, Debbie, Sandy, Helen running the kitchen!

Addison, Kailee and Mary for the homemade gingerbread people

The Stayner Collegiate female foursome for the XMAS decorating stations Laurie and Joan for the Village Green and the gifts for the hats,etc. Tyler Kueper of Iron Butterfly for the fire chimney

McDonald Construction for their two dump trucks BIA for the chairs

Steve Whitley for the firewood Sim, John, Marie, Michael, Natalie Fran, Adam, and the Creemore Coyotes

Amanda Murray and Dan Perreault for their advice and help Creemore firefighters for the trucks and food, toys, & gift card collection Linda, Ron, Barb, Peter, Jim, Tony, Jacquie, Heather, Maggie, Gini, Ayrlie Don, Susan, Jeanine, Andre, Dan and his staff, Sara, Darci, Jesse, Alex Our moms and dads, our kids, our seniors, our neighbours!

The residents of Caroline Street by the Station!

Debbie Hill at the Station

CARA and the Township Katie, Lori, Doug, Bryan EVERYONE WHO CAME!

Valley!

This past summer four amazing women organized a golf tournament at their Club, Mad River, in support of Hospice Georgian Triangle. The event raised almost $30,000 in much needed funds for our local hospice through registration fees, silent auction, personal donation, even the men’s section offered up their weekly winnings.

While the event was held on a beautiful day at the end of July, it

is important to keep that warm and wonderful feeling that you get from charitable giving going, especially during the holidays.

This past season Mad River has assisted not only the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital raise funds, but also supported the Simcoe County Warden’s Tournament in their fundraising efforts.

There is no better time to give to local charity than the holidays!

Contributed photo

Hospice Georgian Triangle board member Sue McKenzie (from left), Mad River Committee: Cate Woodward, Lisa Houston, Bonnie Macdonald, and Katie Macnee with Hospice Georgian Triangle executive director Sandra Sullivan

Humane Society launches Home for the Holidays campaign

The “Home for the Holidays” adoption campaign returns to the The Georgian Triangle Humane Society (GTHS) this month, when adoption fees for all cats are reduced to $50 and kittens $75.

“As the weather gets colder, we receive dozens of calls daily about stray cats needing shelter. This holiday adoption campaign is an excellent way to make space for cold and homeless cats, while simultaneously matching deserving cats with loving homes,” said Sonya Reichel, Executive Director of the GTHS. “We are so grateful to be part of a petloving community.”

The campaign runs until Dec. 23 and aims to help reduce the number of cats in care at the GTHS and find them a loving home to call their own this holiday season.

For individuals interested in adopting a cat, the GTHS advises to start the process by visiting the ‘Adopt’ section on the official GTHS website: gths. ca, and select ‘Animals for Adoption’ from the drop down menu.

Think again.

Huronia

Members of the Huronia West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have suspended four driver’s licences, seized three vehicles, and issued numerous serious criminal and traffic related driving charges only within the span of two hours in the middle of the night.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, at approximately 1:20 a.m., an officer was conducting speed enforcement on Hwy 26 within Springwater Township. At this time a vehicle was clocked utilizing a speed measuring device at 141 km/h. After stopping the vehicle, it was confirmed that the vehicle’s insurance policy was not in good standing.

As a result, a 23-year-old resident from Barrie has been charged with:

· Race a motor vehicle - Perform Stunt - Excessive Speed HTA;

· Operate motor vehicle on a highway - No insurance CAIA.

Only minutes later on Highway 26 within Clearview Township, another officer was out conducting speed enforcement as well. This time a separate vehicle was clocked at 133 km/h.

As a result, a 22-year-old Meaford resident has been charged with:

Speed.

Both drivers parted ways with their driver’s licence for 30 days, vehicle for 14 days, and now must answer to the charges in court for a maximum fine of $10,000 and potential jail time.

Later that evening, at approximately 2:45 a.m., a RIDE spot check was set up within Springwater Township. Shortly thereafter a vehicle approached, and it was determined that the driver had been consuming alcohol. As a result of a roadside test, the driver was issued a three-day licence suspension based on their consumption rate.

Only minutes later while still at the RIDE, police heard what sounded like metal screeching on pavement getting closer and closer – a vehicle was approaching while only driving on a rim. After a very brief investigation, the driver was arrested for impaired operation. It was unknown on how far the vehicle had been travelling in its state, however after observing the damage it was clear it wasn’t from just around the corner.

As a result, 39-year-old Diana Ilavsky of Springwater Township was charged with:

· Operation while Impaired - alcohol and drugs;

· Operation while Impaired - BAC 80 plus.

This driver’s vehicle met a fate of being impounded for 7 days along with her driver’s licence suspended well into the new year totaling 90 days.

FOR SALE

SERVICES

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CREEMORE HILLS WINERY

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GRASS FED FREEZER BEEF $100-$200 boxes available or a la carte. For info call Dan 705-428-6781.

DRY HARDWOOD

2 Years SEASONED, $4 450/ bush cord. FREE delivery and Volume discount. Complete Woodlot Management, 519-986-2474

FOR RENT

Former Terra Nova Pub in the heart of Mulmur. Historic building from 1860, renovated. Can sleep 9. One 4 piece bathroom with a 10 jet jacuzzi tub, rainfall shower, and a heated floor. Ensuite master 3 piece bathroom with rainfall shower and a heated floor. Large living room with a dining table, beautiful walnut bar and comfortable lounging area with a classic cocktail arcade. Fully equipped chef's kitchen with 8ft range hood, and an island sitting area. Large fenced back patio with a fire table to gather around on winter nights. We are very close to Devil's Glen and Mansfield Ski Club, hiking the Bruce trail, as well as Creemore. This is the perfect winter retreat for a cozy rustic atmosphere with a touch of modern. Rate: $4,700/ MTH - Utilities+Snow Removal Inc. Availability: Dec. 19, 2022 - March 31, 2023. Contact: Troy Gallimore at 705-440-8533 or troygallimore7@ gmail.com.

HELP WANTED

Steer Enterprises Ltd, requires an Accounting Clerk. Full time challenging position. Post Secondary education required, Excel experience essential, experience in other software an asset. Email info@steer.ca for more details.

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.

FOR SALE

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

DEATH NOTICE

DEATH NOTICE

2007 JEEP LIBERTY FOR SALE

Very good condition. Black exterior/ grey interior. 75K KM, one female driver. Requires some maintenance for safety. $9K as is. Call 416-557-0363.

2012 CHEVROLET ORLANDO LT 131,000 km, good condition, fourcylinder, FWD, third row seating, undercoat, alloy wheels plus four snow tires on rims. $7,500. For more info call 705-466-3428.

THANK YOU

The Breakfast with Santa committee would like to thank everyone who supported the school and ate breakfast with us. Thanks also to all the local businesses that donated silent auction times. The Legion for donating the space. Miller's Dairy for donating the milk, Foodland for donating juice and maple syrup, and all the volunteers who donated their time and contributing to the success of the event. A big thank you to Santa Claus for coming all the way from the North Pole. The event was a huge success. All proceeds will be donated to Nottawasaga and Creemore Public School. And thanks also to everyone for their supportive words and encouragement. Merry Christmas.

Thank you to all the church and community people for their support to make our apple pie fundraiser a huge success. We appreciate all who helped make the pie and those who bought the. Badjeros United Church

QUANBURY, Doug Wayne –Doug passed away Dec. 4 in his 77th year. Liz will miss her best friend and husband of 54 years. Together they raised five children: Michael (Caroline), Bryan (Sandra), Kevin (Jo Anne), Jessie predeceased (Asif), Mindy predeceased. Doug's lucky number was 13 and he had 13 grandchildren who will miss his many stories: Ashton, Monty, Chase, Georgia, Bryce, Emma, Graydon, Katrina, Christian, Elliot, Jasmin, AJ and Lachlan. Doug was raised in a family of six in Georgetown: Jack predeceased, AnneMarie (Bill Maveal), Rick (Velma predeceased), Dick and Gary predeceased (Terrasita) by parents Ray and Laura (both predeceased). He will be missed by his sisters and brothers-in-law Judy and Tom MacDonald, Elma Clark, Mary Lynn and Colin McDermid as well as his nieces Jodi, Melissa and Denise and nephews Bradley, Ryan, Chris, Alex, and Graeme. Doug graduated from Ridgetown Agricultural College (University of Guelph) and was hired by Beaver Lumber where he managed several stores and worked in head office. After moving to Stayner Doug and Liz opened their own business in 1976 and successfully with the help of family operated Quanbury Decorating Center. Later they developed Huron Meadows in Stayner and Doug was so proud to see the success of that project. Doug was involved with service clubs; help form the Chamber of Commerce in Stayner and the Georgian Triangle Tourist Assoc. He was an elder of Jubilee Presbyterian Church Stayner. Doug had a great love of sports, playing hockey, coaching, and following his children and grandchildren's games. Doug and Liz retired to Creemore, and Doug so enjoyed his participation with Ray's Place, Station on The Green, curling, book club and especially the family of friends he had at Mad River Golf Club. Doug loved people and when he met you would ask your name, where you lived and learn as much about you as he could. As a result, he was a friend to many. A celebration of life was held on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2022, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. with remembrances at 2 p.m. at the Station on the Green in Creemore. In Doug's memory the family would gratefully accept donations to the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital. Friends may visit Doug’s online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com.

VAN DER HEYDEN; Christiana (Janet) – Passed away peacefully on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022 at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie surrounded by her loving family at the age of 90. Janet of New Lowell, loving wife of the late Theo (2018) for 60 years. Loving mother of Elly van der Heyden (Ted Telford), Andy van der Heyden (Nancy) and Yolanda van der Heyden. Cherished Grandma/Oma of Andrew, Adam, Allae and Amelia. Janet will also be missed by her extended family in Canada and the Netherlands as well as her friends and neighbours. Friends will be received at the Carruthers and Davidson Funeral Home – Stayner Chapel, 7313 Highway 26, Stayner on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Funeral Mass will follow at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 215 Pine Street, Stayner at 11 o’clock. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall. If desired, donations to Royal Victoria Hospital Foundation for the Cardiac-Renal Unit would be appreciated by Janet’s family. The family wish to thank the amazing team in the Cardiac-Renal unit for their compassionate care during Janet’s final days. For more information and to sign the online Book of Memories, please visit www.carruthersdavidson. com.

IN MEMORIAM

Your presence is ever near us

Your love remains with us yet

You were the kind of father

That loved ones never forget Love and miss you every day Bob, Betty, and Grant

In loving memory of Carl Gowan (March 1991), Gertie Gowan (December 2020), Rick Gowan (November 2015)...

In our hearts, your memory lingers Sweetly tender, fond and true. There is not a day dear Dad, Mom & Rick

That we do not think of you.

Love and Prayers.

Susan & Fred, Terry, Trudy & Wayne, Cathie, Dan & Lynn, Tammy and Families

tragedy of the fire last week has rocked our community and we have all felt nothing but concern for the displaced residents of Creemore’s landmark building and BIA member Otta Zapotocky at La Cucina.

Elves prepare for Community Christmas Dinner

The annual community Christmas dinner returns this year with a sit-down traditional meal at the Legion.

Everyone is invited to a join in the festivities at the Creemore Legion on Dec. 25. The event starts at 4:30 p.m. Special arrangements such as food requests, rides or meal deliveries can be arranged upon request. Please register by Dec. 14 at the email below to help

us calculate food quantities, however, we will try not to turn anyone away. Volunteers are needed for decor, food prep, cooking, and clean-up.

Donations of food and funds are always appreciated. Funds can be deposited to the “Community Christmas Dinner” account at TD Bank (#0330 5202657) or e-transferred to CreemoreChristmasElf@gmail.com.

GO FUND ME campaign has been set up to help Otta immediately. The money will be directed right to his accounts to help him meet his immediate financial obligations.

Let us all be part of a support network and give what we can - be it money, a kind word or any other sort of support we have to offer. We are, after all, the little village with the big heart.

SCAN CODE FOR

RELIEF FUND

Linda DeWinter, Jennifer Yaeck MacIntyre, Laurie Severn and Sara Hershoff The Go Fund Me Campaign is not a BIA fundraiser due to regulations around gifting and the Municipal Act. This ad is paid in part using BIA marketing resources.