February 10

The Creemore ECHO

Simcoe County Beef Farmers donate to food banks

by Trina Berlo

Simcoe County Beef Farmers have made a donation of close to 250 pounds of ground beef to the Creemore Community Foodbank.

Representatives picked up beef from Stayner Meat Packers on Wednesday and delivered it to St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Creemore, home base for the Creemore food bank, before delivering an equal amount to the Angus Food Bank.

“Ground beef is a fresh, singleingredient food that is not processed or fortified in any way. It’s packed with protein and is one of nature’s richest sources of iron, Vitamin B12 and zinc,” said David Millsap, local farmer and Beef Farmers of Ontario Director. “We are happy to be able to provide this nutritious, versatile, locally raised staple food to our neighbours in need.”

“Simcoe County Beef Farmers understand the pressures on local food banks to supply the increasing demand for nutritious protein meat products. We wanted to support in the best way we can by directly supplying ground beef to two local food banks,” said Katherine Giffen, president of Simcoe County Beef Farmers. “It was a unanimous decision during our Annual General Meeting from all our members to make a donation of ground beef to local food banks.”

St. Luke’s food bank coordinator Rev. Lorna May said the donation couldn’t come at a better time.

The food bank strives to supply families in need with fresh, nutritious

food and is well supported through various partnerships with local businesses and individual donors. May said the food bank is just getting to the end of a supply of ground beef donated by Miller’s Dairy.

She said ground beef is a valuable staple because it is so versatile and can be added to many meals, providing essential protein.

The food bank is seeing an increase in demand. It is now regularly supporting 26 families, up from eight when it launched last spring.

“Creemore is thought to be an affluent community but there is also poverty and families with precarious incomes,” said May, adding that people accessing the food bank – single moms with a lack of support, couples with children, retired seniors and people on ODSP – are often forced to pay a disproportionate amount of their income on housing, making food unaffordable.

“Thank you to the Simcoe County Beef Farmers Association. This donation of ground beef is a much needed support for our food bank,” said May. “At the Creemore Community Foodbank, we are striving to offer healthy food choices weekly. This donation will also support our monthly educational component Soup for the Soul, encouraging each other as we learn food facts.”

She is grateful to be receiving the beef, which was raised on the farm of Simcoe County Beef Farmers advisory council member Jim Whitley, who farms near Avening.

Clearview council pauses affordable housing funds

by Trina Berlo

In the words of Clearview Township Mayor Doug Measures, council went through a “save and spend” exercise on Feb. 2, trying to find ways to reduce taxpayer funded budget spending while also adding items that have been on council’s wish list.

A public meeting was held for the budget Feb. 9 (after presstime), when

the public would be offered a chance to comment.

The initial staff-proposed budget reflected an increase in municipal taxes of 9.31 per cent, but after being massaged by council, went to the public meeting with a 7.6 per cent increase – and a blended rate of 4.98 per cent, once estimated policing costs, county and education tax rates are factored in, lowering the increase.

Council reduced the tax increase by borrowing from municipal reserve funds, and cutting funding for affordable housing for seniors.

Off the top, $250,000 was cut from a reserve fund that was set up to create a nest egg with the hope that the municipality would one day be in a position to partner with the County of Simcoe, or a developer to build affordable housing

for seniors if the opportunity came along.

Councillor Marty Beelen tabled the motion to cut the spending explaining, ironically, that people are struggling financially.

“When I was out campaigning, the number one thing that people said to me was taxes are high enough and they can’t afford a tax increase,” he said.

(See “Budget” on page 3)

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Creemore Community Foodbank coordinator Rev. Lorna May, of St. Luke's Anglican Church, accepted a donation of ground beef Wednesday from the Simcoe County Beef Farmers. Pictured with May is director David Millsap (right) and advisory council member Jim Whitley

Ongoing

• Join The Creemore Sanctuary's February Challenge. Commit to yourself and enjoy unlimited yoga. Take part in as many as six classes each week, available at various times and levels. Email, call or visit the website for discount and details. www.thecreemoresanctuary.com, thecreemoresanctuary@gmail.com, 705 888-7729.

• VON SMART free fitness classes. Mondays at 6:30 p.m. and Tuesdays at 11 a.m. at St. Luke’s Anglican Church Hall, Creemore. For community members looking to improve strength, balance and mobility. Ages 55+. Call for more information or to register: 705-355-2200.

• The Station Café is open Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St. E., Creemore. $2 fee for a bottomless cup of coffee or tea. Everyone welcome.

Friday, Feb. 10

• Join speakers from St. Luke's Community Food Bank, The Orillia Sharing Place Food Center, The New Farm and Hogwild Farming Company at Station on the Green in Creemore from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. for a discussion on Food Insecurity: The intersection of sustainable, equitable local food systems and the role of our food banks. Local wine and snacks will be served from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Contact vsmith@sothebysrealty.ca for more info or to RSVP for this free event.

Saturday, Feb. 11

• Creemore Farmers' and Craft Market, Station on the Green 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fresh, local and unique items from our bakers, makers and growers! Plus breakfast by La Cucina.

• Creemore Coyotes vs Saugeen Shores Winterhawks 7:30 p.m. at the Creemore Arena.

• The Creemore Skating Club will be having a Bake Sale in the lobby at the Creemore Arena from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Stop by to find our skaters' favourite treats: cookies, brownies, tarts and more.

• Valentine fundraiser for NDACT and Food and Water First at the Dufferin Public House, 214 Main St. E., Shelburne. The venue will be romantically decorated for Valentine’s. Food, DJ and dancing as well as silent auction items. Tickets cost $75 each, available via Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/3Zx3ywK. Cocktails and silent auction: 5 p.m. Welcome and food service: 6 p.m. Close of silent auction: 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 14

• Public Skating at the Creemore Arena. Parent and Tot Skating. Free. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Adult Skating 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. $2 admission fee.

Wednesday, Feb. 15

• Creemore Horticultural Society Meeting with speaker Paul Zammitt, “The Soul of the Garden.” Zoom meeting at 7:30 p.m.; March 15, speaker is Dugald Cameron “Lilacs.” Meeting at Station on the Green at 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 17

• 1944 RCEME Army Cadet Maple Syrup Fundraiser. Order by Feb. 17 and get a one litre glass bottle for just $22, after Feb. 17 $25. Contact 1944rcaccsc@gmail.com.

• Sunnidale Winterama events rescheduled due to weather: Support the New Lowell Firefighters' Association's annual Spaghetti Dinner at the New Lowell Legion from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. $10 for 13yrs and older, $5 for ages 6-12 yrs old, 5 and under free. Beard + Moustache Contest judging at 6:30 p.m. and meet Winterama Willie. Live music by Jenny & Dave Duo. The Burning of the Green from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the New Lowell Recreation Park. North Star Fireworks starts at 8 p.m. The brand new "Den of Hilarities" comedy show at the New Lowell Legion. Doors open at 8:30 p.m., show starts at 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person, cash sales, at the door only. 19+ event.

Saturday, Feb. 18

• Soup for the Soul. A new healthy eating initiative by St. Luke’s Anglican Church. From 10 a.m. to noon. Space is limited. Contact Rev. Lorna May at 705-352-2759 to reserve a spot. Children 10 and older are welcome if accompanied by a guardian. Bring your own slow cooker or one can be provided if need be.

• Jimmy Stone Radio Show with Bigfoot's Hand at the Palace Tavern, Elmvale, 8:30 p.m. $5 door.

• 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 raising money for Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society and the Creemore Legion. Tickets $25 on sale now at www.phahs.ca.

Monday, Feb. 20

• Canadian Air & Space Conservancy at Edenvale Aerodrome, “Home of the Avro Arrow” will acknowledge the 64th Anniversary of the Avro Arrow program cancellation. To commemorate the date of this tragic event, we are hosting three museum tours slots on Family Day – 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. CASC located on Hwy 26 Please register though the website at www.avroarrow203. com.

Wednesday, Feb. 22

• Friends of the Mad Meeting at Station on the Green from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Get an update on plans for upcoming Mad River restoration work and what has been accomplished so far. Input from community members, stakeholders, and all Friends of the Mad welcome. Snacks and shareables also welcome.

Saturday, Feb. 25

• The All Peaceful St. Luke’s team will once again be walking in Creemore in support of The Coldest Night of the Year, leaving from St. Luke’s at 2 p.m. This walk supports Home Horizon in Collingwood. Please contact Rev. Lorna May at 705-352-2759 for details on how to participate and donate. Donations may be made payable to The Coldest Night of the Year, and brought to the church.

Wednesday, March 8 & Thursday, March 9

• Theatre Collingwood Fundraiser - Girl's Nite Out. Enjoy an all-female, all funny troupe of improv and stand-up comedy performers that will have you in stitches with their side-splitting sketches. Tickets are $40 and selling fast. For more information contact Theatre Collingwood 705-445-2200, www.theatrecollingwood.ca.

Friday, March 17

• Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Station on the Green, featuring Shipyard Kitchen Party and Strange Potatoes. 6 p.m. to midnight, doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $40. Available at ticketscene.ca/events/43490. Come get your green on and support your community hall.

Budget goes to public meeting with 7.6% increase

He said while attending the ROMA conference he heard that people are facing a number of crises; housing shortages, inflation, medical supply issues, food insecurity, fuel costs and that a calming effect could be achieved by lowering taxes.

“I know that people are struggling with the rising costs of everything,” said Beelen. “I think we need to do everything we can to lower tax increases. So I’m looking at senior affordable housing and I don’t think this is a good year to do any contribution, let alone increase the contribution.”

Councillors Robert Walker and John Broderick supported an amendment to contribute $150,000 to the fund, but no

other support was to be found around the table.

Measures said it’s a worthy effort but there is no existing program, and that affordable housing and seniors housing projects are more likely to come to fruition in urban areas.

“I’ve never been in favour of this project in the first place,” said Measures. “I do appreciate the fact that in the future there may be opportunities and to have a fund available that we have is a good idea but I’m not sure why we continue to contribute, and contribute as high as we do to a fund that’s a program that doesn’t even exist.”

Beelen’s motion to defer the payment until 2024 was also supported by Councillors Phyllis Dineen, Robert

McArthur and Deputy Mayor Paul Van Staveren

Director of planning Amy Cann said there are options council can consider to route funds more specially for affordable housing, by possibly relieving or forgiving development charges, and setting aside municipal lands.

“I’m hoping some of the developers will realize that small rural Ontario does not have affordable housing and does need housing of a smaller scale,” said Walker.

A second resolution, tabled by Walker, adds approximately $100,000 for an electronic sign at the Stayner Arena and library.

A third resolution adds $140,000 for a new roof over the recreation pad in

New Lowell

A resolution, tabled by Beelen, to cut EcoPark improvements failed.

Council also supported the addition of a multi-use recreation pad for McKean Memorial Park in Nottawa, equipped for basketball and skating ($100,000) and portable washroom for the Nottawa ball park ($75,000). Staff reported that these projects had been previously approved by council but “fell through the cracks” and were unintentionally omitted from previous budgets.

The additions will partially impact the taxation but will partially draw from reserves, to be paid back from taxation over the next few years.

Finally, $7,500 was added for additional yellow line painting on township roads.

Simcoe County council approves budget with 3.5% increase

County of Simcoe council has approved a $695-million budget which officials say focuses on the resources necessary to maintain existing services and address significant growth.

The 2023 budget also includes strategic allocations that enable the county to continue to invest in services and assets such as infrastructure, paramedic services, affordable housing, long-term care, Lake Simcoe Regional Airport, waste collections, transit, economic development, tourism and enhancements to our road network.

At the direction and approval of council, residents will see a two per cent increase for operating and a one and half percent increase for infrastructure and asset management on the county portion of their municipal property taxes. This represents an

increase of about $9.77 per $100,000 property assessment across the region.

The overall budget expenditures increased due primarily to inflationary pressures, areas of growth, investment and initiatives directed by council to enhance service levels while increasing efficiencies. The county is also seeing a significantly increased demand on services, including a five per cent increase in paramedic call volume. The financial impact of the provincial blue box program and the introduction of Bill 23 – Building More Homes Faster Act are not fully known at this time.

Council also directed staff to report back with more information on select staff additions and capital purchase items; however, the staff report does not impact the approved 2023 county budget or tax levy rates.

The county maintains a strong financial position having received an AA+ long-term issuer credit rating from S&P Global Ratings, a provider of high-quality market intelligence in the form of credit ratings and research.

The 2023 budget ensures the county continues along this path of long-term fiscal stability and contains items that address areas of growth, as well as initiatives directed by council to enhance and maintain service levels for the region, support infrastructure, increase efficiencies, and prepare for the future.

Highlights:

• Total county operating and capital expenditures for 2023: $695 million (an increase of $6.7 million reflecting a 3.5 per cent increase, or $9.77 per $100,000 assessment.)

• LTC and Seniors Services: $92M

• Paramedic Services: $67M

• Children Services: $105M

• Social Housing: $91M

• Ontario Works: $70M

• Transportation and Engineering: $77M

• Solid Waste Management: $85M

OPINION &

COLUMN

Safeguarding mental health in winter

THE WAY WE WERE

HEALTH MATTERS

This time of year can be really difficult for most folks. The short days and colder weather can do a number on our mood and feelings of wellbeing. This low mood in winter months can be referred to as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). SAD is seen as a combination of low motivation, fatigue, low/negative feelings of self, brain fog and lack of concentration. Even if you are not experiencing all of these, here are some ways to help rebalance your mental health in the winter.

Morning Light Exposure – This is important to regulate your circadian rhythm and to up-regulate proper hormone production that controls our sleep/ wake center of the brain. Morning light helps balance the rise and fall of our stress hormone, cortisol. Cortisol should increase in the morning to energize you for the day and come down in the evening to prepare you for sleep. Screens and artificial light skew this natural rhythm, so light in the morning helps resets these innate bodily rhythms.

Exercise 30 minutes daily – This we all know but often don’t implement in winter months when our emotional wellbeing needs it the most. The Journal of the American Medical Association says, “significant mental health benefits come from being physically active, even at levels below the public health recommendations.” In my opinion the best way to do this is have an exercise buddy, where you can meet for a walk or even a virtual class together to hold each other accountable and be able to celebrate your milestones together.

Vitamin D3 – This super vitamin is linked to feelings of low mood and SAD when levels are low. This vitamin is up-regulated by sun and light exposure, so as Canadians in winter months, we are often low in this vitamin. Your levels can be measured in the blood and should be in order to dose accordingly, but common practice is to use 1000-4000 IU per day to address a deficiency.

5-HTP – This is an amino acid and chemical precursor to serotonin. 5-HTP can be used to increase serotonin, the neurotransmitter that brings feelings of contentment. I frequently use this in practice for patients with low mood and often just prescribe it during the winter months to help the brain stabilize until the warmer, sunnier months come back. Serotonin is the precursor to melatonin, our sleep hormone, so it also has beneficial effects on sleep and regulating our circadian rhythms.

The implementation of all four of these recommendations can really help, but if you are struggling please seek professional help with your nearest mental health professional, MD or Naturopath. Winter can be beautiful in Ontario, so I hope this can help encourage maximum enjoyment this winter!

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

Snow appears to be a byproduct of this winter season, especially so since the storm of Jan. 26 and a familiar sight to the few doing any travelling is the plows, blowers and snow removal forces. Following the earlier storm that blocked roads and stranded hundreds as well as isolating many communities, this area has had a session of freezing rain and a subsequent snowfall and accompanying blow. Continued cold weather hasn’t alleviated the situation in fact it has resulted in producing some monumental piles of moved snow where such movement was possible at all. A snow removal operation in Creemore was effected to some extent even to the cut-back of snowbanks on most streets so that there would be space to push later arrivals. Even so, some local streets such as Collingwood has a 15-foot bank on the west side and some downtown piles approach that imposing figure. This week’s early blow was followed by another flurry on Wednesday morning and doubtless many dugout lanes would be at least partially filled in again.

The Creemore Star reported that a huge storm on Jan. 26, 1971 forced several motorists to abandon their vehicles and seek shelter in nearby homes. One hundred motorists were stranded at Cashtown Corners and the Stayner Legion hosted 40 travellers. School buses were stranded and 100 students and four teachers at Our Lady of the Assumption School at Brentwood sought shelter at neighbouring homes. Submitted by Colleen Stamp.

EDITOR Trina Berlo trina@creemore.com

PUBLISHER Sara Hershoff sara@creemore.com Bonnie MacPherson bonnie@creemore.com

Kate HUNTER

Contributed photo

In honour of Valentine’s Day, Clearview Public Library is hosting a very special promotion involving a Blind Date with a Book. Circulation clerk Elizabeth Alavarez is holding one of the many selections of mystery books that lie awaiting to be discovered. Pop by the Creemore, New Lowell and/or Stayner branches to take a chance on engaging with a good read, be it a romcom, epic adventure or gory murder.

The Women of Ontario Say No:

What started out as a local grassroots advocacy effort in support of Bill 5 The Stopping Harassment and Abuse by Local Leaders Act has evolved into a full-blown province-wide effort to ensure municipally elected officials are held accountable for their violence and harassment in the workplace.

As the municipal election was approaching in October 2022, deputations were targeted to municipal councils throughout Simcoe County to adopt a motion in support of the Bill with letters of support from councils sent directly to the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Steve Clark, respective local MPPs, the Association of Ontario Municipalities, and the private member who put the bill on the table, MPP Stephen Blais.

The advocacy effort, initially known as “The Women of Simcoe Say No” was a direct response to a sitting councillor in Barrie who was going through civil litigation for sexual harassment and was able to run for mayor. In theory, had the Bill been passed in one of the previous sessions (Bill 260 and Bill 10), this person may not have been eligible to run. “The message this sent to the community and the larger region was toxic,” states Emily McIntosh, a long time resident of Simcoe County and lead advocate. “It communicates that those in positions of power are not held to the basic standards of treatment we have come to expect from each other. It isn’t a reality any Ontarian should be willing to accept today.”

The movement, now dubbed “The Women of Ontario Say No,” has attracted support throughout the province, from councillors as far north as Kenora, to former Premier Wynne, to provincial associations providing victim support, to people who have never engaged publicly in advocacy before.

Mother-of-two, web designer and brand manager Farah Grozelle, of Oh Darling Creative Media in Bradford West Gwillimbury, knew she needed to get involved. “This feels like something tangible I can do for my daughter,” said Farah. “We all have a role to play in ensuring human rights are protected. This legislation will benefit all people, but we know that women and minorities are more adversely affected. It’s hard to believe this level of advocacy is required for something so fundamental. But change is possible when voters demand it.”

The growing movement is not only about helping address harassment and abuse by municipally elected officials, but also supports the prevention of harassment in the first place. The effort firmly recognizes that without workplace safety, diversity of voice will never be at the decision-making table, and this diversity is necessary for a healthy democracy.

The advocacy effort builds on the courage of three remarkable women that defied the odds and came forward with experiences of harassment from then Ottawa councillor, Rick Chiarelli. “This is a non-partisan issue and it’s

time we prioritize the public’s trust in the integrity of a publicly funded position of power over politics,” shares Nancy O’Brien, one of the women directly affected by the gap in legislation. Specifically, a gap that allowed Councillor Chiarelli to retain his position and seek reelection, despite three substantiated claims (involving four women) by two different Integrity Commissioners, that resulted in a cumulative 12 months’ suspicion of pay. Over 20 women have come forward in the case of Councillor Chiarelli (anonymously to the media, the integrity commissioners and publicly).

The Bill has three primary components:

1. Municipal elected officials would be accountable to the violence and harassment policies of the respective municipality (in line with the CAO);

2. For egregious acts of harassment substantiated by the Integrity Commissioner, councils could direct the IC to apply to the courts for removal;

3. If removed, the person would be restricted from running.

Of note is that the advocacy is about the accountability structure itself. Ideally, the current government would take the content of the private member’s Bill and pass it as a government Bill, prior to Bill 5’s second reading slated for May 16. “The problem is that the liability is live today. When this started it was about bringing the public’s attention to this unjustifiable double

standard and to encourage voters to research candidates’ history. When the election came and went, we knew it had to get bigger. Now we have newly elected councils with a lack of accountability that puts the public and municipal staff at great risk. A risk we don’t accept for any other employee in this province,” states McIntosh.

Budget chair and a sitting councillor for the City of Toronto, Gary Crawford, agrees. “This is about doing the right thing to ensure a baseline of accountability for positions of great importance to community health. Workplace safety is foundational to the wellbeing and overall organizational efficiency as it relates to publicly funded positions. Elected officials should not be above the standards and laws that are in other professional work environments.”

A public event entitled “Flood the Floor” is planned for the Bill’s second reading on May 16, with an invitation to all members of the public to attend the legislature in Toronto to show the public support for this Bill.

“We know there are people who have been harassed by sitting elected officials at the municipal level and do not feel they can come forward knowing there is no appropriate consequence for egregious acts of harassment. This reality needs to change now. And we can change it, together,” said McIntosh.

– Submitted by The Women of Ontario Say No

SCDSB welcomes Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard during Black History Month

Throughout Black History Month, students and staff at Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) schools will participate in activities that support learning and further understanding of Black history and the contributions of Black people in Canada and around the world.

The SCDSB invites members of

the school communities to attend Equity and Inclusion: Our collective impact, an evening with Canadian Senator Wanda Thomas Bernard, on Feb. 28.

The event will be held in the Bear Creek Secondary School cafeteria on Feb. 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Senator Bernard will focus on Canadian Black history and how

to create change. Space is limited, so members of the SCDSB community are asked to register in advance.

Senator Bernard is the first African Nova Scotian woman to be appointed to the Senate of Canada. Through her involvement in community projects, her social work career, her time with the Dalhousie School of Social Work, and now her work in the Senate and as Deputy Chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights,

Senator Bernard has maintained a deep dedication to social justice and racial justice.

During the school day on Feb. 28, Senator Bernard will lead Grade 10 civics and history students in a board-wide live stream session focused on Canadian Black history and understanding the role of the Canadian Senate.

Bear Creek SS is located at 100 Red Oak Dr. in Barrie.

Senator Bernard

Dufferin OPP investigating stolen Tractor-trailer carrying $50,000 worth of cereal

Dufferin OPP are investigating a tractor-trailer stolen from a parking lot in the Town of Mono on Feb. 6. Police responded to a parking lot on Highway 10 at Campbell Road in Mono for the theft of a tractor-trailer containing approximately $50,000 of cereal. It was determined that the tractor-trailer was stolen sometime between 8 p.m. on Feb. 5 and 9:15 p.m. on Feb. 6.

Dufferin County engages residents in strategic planning

Dufferin County is creating a new Strategic Plan that will guide council and staff as it plans for the future and wants to hear from residents, businesses, community groups and stakeholders.

The Strategic Plan will set the county’s top priorities and create a shared vision for the future of the community, including the work to be done to ensure the county continues

to be a great place to live, visit and do business. The county is requesting public feedback to develop a plan that reflects the diverse values and opinions of its community.

The online survey asks: What’s best about living, working in or visiting Dufferin County? Which issues are most important for Dufferin County’s future? Where should Dufferin County focus its attention over the 2022-

2026 Term of council? Are residents satisfied with the quality and delivery of services?

Dufferin County is working with StrategyCorp to develop its strategic plan. StrategyCorp’s team will be at Centre Dufferin Recreation Complex, main lobby, 200 Fiddle Park Lane, in Shelburne, from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24 to gather input inperson.

The tractor trailer is described as a 2019 Volvo VVN, white in colour. The trailer portion of the truck is also white.

Anyone with information or video surveillance footage in relation to this theft is asked to call the Dufferin OPP Detachment at 519-942-1711 or 1-888-310-1122.

Information can also be shared anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submitting information online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Canadian rock royalty Sloan played two nights at Avening Hall Feb. 4 and 5 to two very enthusiastic sold-out crowds.

From left: Winterama Willie and Chuck Arrand lead the Sunnidale Winterama parade on a very crisp Saturday morning; The New Lowell Legion promotes their Haunted House in the parade; Anna Bronee and Serenity Meslag watch the parade from the comfort of a snowbank.

Amanda Sochan photos

Clearview Fire Station 3 team in mid run during this year's Sunnidale Winterama Bed Races in New Lowell on Feb. 4. Top right: The bed race was won by Station 4 (Nathan Chandler, Kyle Gracey, Justin Paulitzki, Ethan Parker, Sam Burrows and Jesse Stevens).

Creemore Cadets rebuilding corps

by Trina Berlo

1944 RCEME Army Cadets in Creemore is going strong, having recovered from a slump in participation.

The cadet corps has a history of being a very robust program but numbers had dwindled even prior to the pandemic. Capt. Jason Higgins said when he took over as Commanding Officer in March 2022 membership was at zero. Since then enrolment has grown to about 35 cadets and Higgins said that means their presence is starting to grow in the community through participation in events and community service.

Since March the corps is growing, training, participating in community activities and has been received several accolades.

This weekend, three of the Creemore cadets are heading to the provincial biathlon championships, after winning seven medals at the area finals at CFB Borden.

In November, the corps’ most senior cadet, Warrant Officer Brooklyn Higgins won the Major General W.A. Howard award, presented to one cadet in each province and territory who has achieved the highest results in the 4th year annual Gold Star Training Level.

“For our Cadet corps that was a huge deal because literally six month prior there were zero cadets in the cadet corps. Six months later we have someone winning the award for the top Army Cadet in Ontario,” said Higgins, who is also her father.

The Cadet corps was recently denied relief on rental fees for the Creemore arena but has been granted permission to use the arena hall for marksmanship training.

The Creemore Legion is home base but Cadets will use the arena for marksmanship training in the month of February and their annual review on June 3.

Higgins said he is confident the corps will find financial support elsewhere and they have been encouraged to apply for funds through the township’s community grant program.

Higgins said there is a misconception

that the Cadet program is fully funded by the federal government. He said some activities are funded, but the corps relies heavily on the Army Cadet League for fundraising.

Cadets are preparing for a change of command in the next month or so and registration is open. Anyone who joins now can still apply for summer opportunities, like free summer camps.

1944 Army Cadets is open to all youth from Creemore, Stayner, Wasaga Beach, Shelburne, New Lowell, Dundalk, Flesherton, Alliston, Lisle, Everret, and surrounding areas. Weekends activities include,

camping, survival training,

Army Cadets is open for all youth aged 12-18, and registration is free. The Army Cadet program provides experiences and training in camping, adventure training, citizenship, leadership, physical fitness, marksmanship, drill, band, and more.

For more information email 1944army@cadets.gc.ca, visit Creemorearmycadets.com, or stop in on any Thursday night from 6:45 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.

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Finding time in your busy schedule for automotive maintenance and repair can be a hassle. At the same time, missing regular oil changes can take their toll on your car and lead to a much bigger problem if left unattended. For that reason, I'm proud to offer a pick and drop-off service that lets you do what you need to do while I take care of your car and truck issues. By simply calling up and scheduling a time, I'll come to pick up your vehicle at your home or work and bring it back to you once the maintenance or repair has been completed. You no longer have to try to schedule rides with friends or drop car during your lunch break, with my free vehicle pickup and delivery service, auto maintenance always fits into your schedule. Service@AutoSolve.ca |

Call today for a quote or appointment 705-466-9950

Finding time in your busy schedule for automotive maintenance and repair can be a hassle. At the same time, missing regular oil changes can take their toll on your car and lead to a much bigger problem if left unattended. For that reason, I'm proud to offer a pick and drop-off service that lets you do what you need to do while I take care of your car and truck issues. By simply calling up and scheduling a time, I'll come to pick up your vehicle at your home or work and bring it back to you once the maintenance or repair has been completed. You no longer have to try to schedule rides with friends or drop -off your car during your lunch break, with my free vehicle pickup and delivery service, auto maintenance always fits into your schedule.

Finding time for automotive maintenance and repair can be difficult but I can make it easier with free pick up and delivery

The 1944 RCEME Creemore Army Cadets biathlon team won seven medals at a competition at Base Borden in November. Warrant Officer Brooklyn Higgins (at right), winner of the Major General W. A. Howard award.

marksmanship, obstacle course, and abseiling.

MoD event at Grace Tipling Hall

The Museum of Dufferin (MoD), along with community leader Alethia O’Hara-Stephenson of the Dufferin County Canadian Black Association (DCCBA), are holding a live in-person event to celebrate Black Perseverance and Resilience for 2023 Black History Month.

The keynote speaker is Natasha Henry-Dixon, an assistant professor of African Canadian History at York University. The event features a musical performance by the ‘Godfather of Canadian Hip Hop’ Maestro Fresh Wes

Local artist Richie C will perform. In the early 2000s, Richie released his first Single Hard to be Away which became a popular hit on Reggae Radio across Canada, the USA and the UK.

There will also be presentations from the Black Chapter of Centre Dufferin District High School and students from Streams Hub.

The event will take place at Grace Tipling Hall, 203 Main St. E,, Shelburne, on Saturday, Feb. 25, with doors opening at 6 p.m. 160 free tickets are available with a maximum of four per order on the MoD’s Eventbrite page at: https:// bit.ly/3CUEJkt.

Friday Winterama events rescheduled

New Lowell's Sunnidale Winterama events originally scheduled for Friday, Feb. 3 were cancelled due to the extreme weather. The burning of the green, food booth, fireworks show, spaghetti supper and comedy show have all been rescheduled for Friday, Feb. 17. See community calendar on page 2 for details.

Games& FUN

by Barbara Simpson

Business fosters creativity and community

Tierra Hermosa Local Market has launched a series of maker-led workshops with the idea of creating a platform for the makers they have met to showcase their art, beyond selling product in their store, and give the community opportunities to create meaningful connections.

Owner Cheri Mara said the goal is to offer the ‘Create-In-Community’ events on a biweekly basis through the spring.

The next workshop is on Feb. 21 with Wasaga Beach based wildlife photographer Jason George, who has a book and photo cards in the store. George will lead a 90-minute intro to Wildlife Photography workshop, sharing tips on how to locate wildlife and capture their image. Open to all ages.

On March 6, Kim Andrews from ‘The Good Wax Candle Co., who pours the candles for Tierra Hermosa, will teach people how to make their own natural eightounce candle with a custom fragrance.

Mara said they are playing around with different concepts, giving priority to the makers featured in the store, but are also exploring other potential creative activities.

A third of the makers with items in the store are now local and Mara said the goal is to get that up to 50 per cent.

Workshop fees vary and reflect the cost of the takehome products. Register online at www.tierra-hermosa. ca/events or call 416-819-9375. Tierra Hermosa Local Market is located at 2 Francis St. E., Creemore.

Canadian Criss Cross

ACROSS

1. Young horse 5. Very (French)

9. Hot drink

February 10, 2023

Answers on page 11

FRED’S FUNNIES

If you’re Canadian when you go in the bathroom…and Canadian when you come out, what are you in the bathroom?

DOWN

2. Wood sorrel

8. French painter

12. ___ Mavor Moore Award (Canadian theatre award)

14. Layer

26. Sign of sympathy

28. Refuse to buy, as a way of protesting

30. Fashionable style

31. “Made of ___” (Dempsey film)

32. Paint with a shiny finish

33. ___ King Cole

35. Break in

36. Stop

37. Chatham-___, Ontario

40. Burrowing animals

43. Egyptian sun god

44. Part in a film

47. Compass point

49. Deborah ___ (Canadian singer)

Contributed photo

Julie Thurgood-Burnett from Hereward Farms led a workshop at Tierra Hermosa Local Market on Feb. 7, making Valentine's lavender wax sachets using all-natural products.

Recreation SPORTS&

Creemore Curling Club standings

Men Team win-loss-tie-points Verstegen 4-2-0-40

Dave Millsap 4-2-0-40

Cober 4-2-0-40

Crevier 3-3-0-30

John Millsap 3-3-0-30

Fuller 3-3-0-30

Walker 2-4-0-20

Flack 1-5-0-10

The Creemore Coyotes paid tribute to the visually impaired hockey league in Toronto at Game 2 of the playoffs on Feb. 4. Representing the Toronto Ice Owls are Collingwood’s Randy Banks (centre left) and Stayner’s Bob Lowe (centre right) dropping the puck, flanked by Saugeen Shores Winterhawks player Trevor Smith (far left), and Coyotes player Kevin Boyd (far right), with Coyotes general manager Tom Macham in back.

Yotes drop opening game of playoff series

Friday night's game in Port Elgin cancelled due to weather.

Game 2 in Creemore

Final score: Saugeen Shores, 6 vs Creemore, 3 Creemore goal scorers: Ben Hughes with two, and Kevin Boyd with one (PS)

Attendance: 180

Flag bearer: Lincoln Toth

Coyotes Corner

Howies hockey bag winner: Lukas Hayward

winner: Marty Beelen - $265.

From the Hack: An interesting week, three games had six-point ends. Team Verstegen had a six-point end in their victory as did Paul Crevier in their victory. Team Flack had a six-point end in their loss to John Millsap. Dave Millsap won the other game. A threeway tie for first with only one week left in this draw.

Daytime

Team win-loss-tie

Coulter 7-2-2

Loranger 6-3-2

Martens 4-6-1

Walker 2-8-1

From the Hack: On Monday, Gail, Marty, Marian and Michael, of Team Loranger, read the ice well, placing their stones in favourable positions, allowing them to count at least one point per end, leading to an easy win over Team Martens. On the other sheet, Team Coulter secured another win, this time against Team Walker. Wednesday had the top two teams battling it out for the number one spot. Team Loranger took an early lead scoring four in the

first and adding one more point in each of the second, fourth, fifth and seventh ends. Ron, skip of Team Coulter, told his team not to despair, the game isn’t over until the last stone is thrown. Team Loranger had a three point lead going into the eighth, and sure enough, Ron produced some magic and scored four with the hammer, to win the game and this session. On the other sheet, Team Walker racked up a second W vs Team Martens. Thanks to Karen and Marie for the treats this week. Good curling everyone!

Ladies Team win-loss-tie

Verstegen 3-1-1

McKay 3-1

Crawford 2-2-1

Walker 2-3

Baylis 1-4

From the Hack: This week was to determine who will play for the Foodland Trophy. An early lead by Team Crawford got Team Verstegen ready to fight back. Winning the next three ends, they were up one point heading home. Working around tight guards and backing, Judith scored one for the tie. Angelina had a revelation. On Sheet 2, a strong start by Team Baylis with Bonnie on fire setting up every end. Playing better with an audience, Team Walker pulled ahead, but Donna, always patient scored two to be the spoiler.

Fred Mills photo

FOR SALE

CREEMORE HILLS WINERYWine for sale. Pet-Nat Picnics and/or wine tastings. By appointment only. Pick-up or delivery. Call/Text 647588-8931, cmorrissey0708@icloud. com.

FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Readyto-burn split hardwood. Will deliver single cords. Also round bales of hay and straw. Call 705-444-1073.

Female six-month-old GERMAN

SHEPHERD cross with Bearnese Mountain dog for sale. $200. House trained and crate trained. Call 705818-0657.

SERVICES

CONTRACTOR REPAIRS, restores, dismantles and jacks up farm buildings, homes, and cottages. Also roofing, siding, doors, windows, beams, posts, foundations, piers, cement work, fencing, eaves troughing, decks, docks installed, repaired, replaced. Contact Brian McCurdy, at 519-986-1781 or 519375-0958.

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.

CREEMORE BAKERY IS BACK from our Seasonal Break! Re-opening for the 2023 season on Friday, Feb. 17. Can't wait to see you!

HELP WANTED SUMMER JOB CROP WORKER LAVENDER FARM

Lavender Creek Farm is a small family-owned growing beautiful lavender on our farm in a friendly atmosphere.

You will be assisting with:

• harvest of lavender

• weed control

• pruning

• making lavender bundles

• preparing and shipping orders

• other related tasks

We are looking for someone who likes working outside for extended periods of time, who likes physical work. Other qualifications we are looking for are self-directed, motivated, hardworking, able to carry out instructions, flexible and a good team player.

Our farm is located about 20 minutes from Creemore and Shelburne, and 25 minutes from Collingwood and Wassaga Beach. Transportation to/ from Lavender Creek Farm is not provided, however, we are able to pick-up and drop-off within a reasonable distance. Accommodation could also be provided.

CREEMORE VILLAGE GREEN MANAGER

The Creemore Community Foundation is seeking an enthusiastic community builder to manage and animate the newly constructed Village Green park. This is a modern, open, shared community property that encourages gathering and activity to support Creemore’s community organizations, regional tourism and village commerce by engaging residents, attracting visitors, and showcasing the unique nature of the village.

This is a varied role which combines community service, event coordination and park management/maintenance. The Manager will work with the town’s various organizations and businesses, as well as our regional partners, to support and execute four-season innovative brand events and programming. It requires high energy and is highly collaborative. You take initiative and have a strong commitment to customer service, can work independently as well as in conjunction with others and are open to continuous learning. You must be organized in nature, with an ability to juggle multiple priorities, work to deadlines and possess great attention to detail.

This is a full-time position that requires on-site work from both an office and outdoors, as well as flexible hours to accommodate events and/or collaborative meetings. Days, evenings and weekends will all be necessary at times. Along with physical coordination components, there are administrative, budgeting and marketing duties. You must be charming, confident and professional in your approach to building strong internal and external relationships and possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.

COMPENSATION

$50,000 to $65,000 range, benefits, 4 weeks vacation per annum

You will be joining a passionate community that is driven to delivering memorable experiences that make both our residents and visitors feel special. As well, you will have the opportunity to develop your role with us, explore your potential and expand your skill set.

If this position excites you, please email the Management Committee at cvgmcommittee@gmail.com for more details on the qualifications and responsibilities for this role, and application submission instructions.

Contract length: 4 months, full-time or part-time, flexible hours (weekdays and/or weekends). Expected start date: 2023-05-01 – start date is flexible Salary: $18 per hour. Please send resume to: Christine at lavendercreekfarm.on@gmail.com or call 519-591-6392 to discuss.

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.”

HAMILTON BROS. • EST. 1874 • 705-466-2244 hamiltonbros@ultrafastwireless.com

2047 Glen Huron Rd, Glen Huron

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Summer Student Opportunities

2023 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 #2023–002 Pool Instructors / Lifeguards (6 positions)

Job #2023–003 Pool Lifeguard – Supervisor

Job #2023–004 Pool Customer Service Student

Job #2023–005 Student Water / Sewer Operator (Co-Op position)

Job #2023–006 Student Roads Workers (4 positions)

Job #2023–007 Student Tourism/ Culture Assistants (5 positions)

Job #2023–008 Student Parks & Recreation

All positions are 35-40 hours per week (early May to early September 2023)

All resumes must be received electronically through the Human Resources department, by Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at: hr@clearview.ca

Please indicate job # in subject line. If applying for more than one position, please indicate order of preference.

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