Blyth Brussels Citizen - March 2023

Twice as nice

The U13 C Huron Heat had a day to remember on Sunday as far as the players’ playoff aspirations are concerned. At 10 a.m., the team hosted the St. Thomas Panthers at the Central Huron Community Complex in Clinton and won by a score of 4-1. After a few hours of

rest and perhaps a hearty lunch, the team travelled to Mitchell for an Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA) playdown with the Mitchell Meteors, that the team also won, this time by a score of 2-0. The team next takes on the B.A.D. Blazers on the road on March 5. (John Stephenson photo)

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Community groups, members of the public, and even some councillors are expressing anxious uncertainty over potential cuts to North Huron township’s recreation facilities.

During public comment of North Huron Council’s Feb. 21 meeting, Belgrave Community Centre Building and Grounds Facilitator Jonathan Van Camp spoke about the merits of the facility and its management structure, and urged careful consideration of the centre’s versatility and significance to community members when weighing impacts on the township’s ledger.

At the meeting, council reviewed and discussed a report submitted by Chief Administrative Officer Dwayne Evans outlining six pursuable options regarding the existing lease agreement between North Huron Township and the Belgrave Community Centre Board, the group responsible for managing the facility’s operations. Terms of the lease are not set to expire until 2031, but a provision exists for either side to exit the arrangement after providing one year’s notice of an intention to do so. Evans proposed five variations

McCallum wants to honour veterans with road name

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Morris-Turnberry Councillor Jamie McCallum is beginning to build support for an idea to publicly pay homage to local Canadian veterans by adding an honorary name to Huron County’s portion of Highway 4.

McCallum wants the stretch, already known as London Road, to gain the additional title of Veterans Memorial Parkway and has begun the process of drafting a resolution that he hopes will circulate amongst the lower-tier municipalities of Huron County to gain support before seeking approval at the county level. “I think this a sign of respect for our veterans and it shows that they will not be forgotten,” said McCallum at the Feb. 21 meeting of council, held virtually via Zoom.

McCallum noted that there are

three nearby branches of the Royal Canadian Legion in Wingham, Brussels and Blyth, and the community is home to a large number of veterans. McCallum suggests Highway 4 is an appropriate choice for the tribute because it runs from the northern end of Huron County to the southern end.

Deputy-Mayor Kevin Freiburger questioned the validity of the term parkway, saying, “If I envision a parkway in my mind, I don’t necessarily picture Highway 4.” McCallum indicated flexibility on precise sign verbiage and said he is only looking to best project the sentiment of remembrance and demonstrate gratitude to veterans in the county. Councillor Sharen Zinn added, “I think this is a great idea and I don’t think it’s really about the name, I think it’s more about the idea of it and honouring the veterans.”

McCallum said he has consulted Morris-Turnberry Director of Public Works Mike Alcock about the potential roadway name change and received encouraging feedback. Alcock indicated the honorary title would not affect existing resident addresses and drew comparison to Highway 21 being known traditionally as Bluewater Highway

but later receiving the honorary designation of Bluewater Veterans Highway. Mayor Jamie Heffer said he would like to learn more about the implications of this type of name change before proceeding further.

Chief Administrative Officer/ Clerk Trevor Hallam is tasked with fleshing out the resolution and

providing more information for consideration at a later, not yet determined meeting of council.

McCallum admits that the idea is still in the early stages of development. He concluded by saying, “When I put this together it was just a respect thing… we have people that have sacrificed for our township.

ACW aims for 10% increase

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

The Township of AshfieldColborne-Wawanosh (ACW) Council continued 2023 budget deliberations at a special meeting on Feb. 28 and Mayor Glen McNeil began by sharing his vision for a 10 per cent proposed increase to the municipal levy resulting in an additional annual cost of $99 per

household, or a little more than $8 per month.

The mayor’s plan would require council to trim an additional $1 million from the bottom line of the next draft of the budget through cuts and/or transfers from reserves. McNeil noted that ACW ratepayers enjoy the lowest tax rate of all of Huron County’s municipalities.

The mayor urged councillors to consider the roughly $5

budget at a “high level,” rather than devoting too much time to squabbling over the document’s less significant figures.

Members of council expressed varying degrees of support for the mayor’s proposed 10 per cent figure. Deputy-Mayor Bill Vanstone said he knew it was going to be a “tough budget” due to inflationary pressure, but wished to

Ukrainian newcomers embrace new sport in Canada

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

The County of Huron, in partnership with the Seaforth Curling Club, hosted a learn-to-curl event for a special group of new residents on Friday, Feb. 24.

Huron County is now home to nearly 40 newcomers from Ukraine who have resettled in Canada over the past 12 months, according to event organizer and County of Huron Local Immigration Partnership Manager Mark Nonkes.

The instructional evening of curling, part of an ongoing monthly series of events, was created to introduce Ukrainian newcomers to the quintessentially Canadian sport of curling and aid in strengthening local social networks.

Nonkes said Ukrainian families have settled throughout the county in areas like Goderich, Wingham, Mitchell, Exeter and others. Events like the curling tutorial aim to foster new relationships, provide space for Ukrainian people to connect to share common language and familiar customs, and facilitate integration with newfound Canadian neighbours and friends.

Through an interpreter, new arrival to Canada - Nataliia - told The Citizen she thinks Huron County is very beautiful and likes living here very much. She says she has made many friends and feels very welcomed by the community.

Nataliia said she is new to curling but believes her athletic background in soccer and basketball should help her quickly master the icy art of tossing rock. Nataliia said the event was a great idea and that games help bring people together. When asked if she may represent Team Canada some day as a curler at the Olympics, the brightly beaming Nataliia enthusiastically replied, “Yes!” She also provided two useful translations - “pospishay” and “tyazhko” - which are the Ukrainian words for “hurry” and “hard”.

Throwing rocks

Barbara practises curling at an instructional event at the Seaforth Curling Club on Friday, Feb. 24. The evening was part of an ongoing monthly series of

Nataliia’s interpreter - Iuliia - a six-year resident of the Goderich area, said curling is not widely practiced in her native country and that this event is a great opportunity for Ukrainian newcomers in Huron County to gain exposure to a popular Canadian pastime. Iuliia said it is also an effective way to combat loneliness for those experiencing new circumstances in a new country.

Retirees Audrey and Alex of Goderich say it has been a very good experience hosting a young woman from Ukraine at their home.

Audrey says the language barrier has not been an issue at all and the young woman is fitting in very well with the community. Nonkes says there is an ongoing need for new housing options throughout the county for Ukrainians who have recently arrived in Canada. Noting vulnerable sector check requirements, Nonkes encourages anyone interested in volunteering support or providing housing options to visit connectedcountyofhuron.ca/suppor t-for-ukrainian-newcomers.

Hurry, hurry, learn...

Newcomer to Canada Maria learns techniques from President of the Seaforth Curling Club Brian McGavin. Around 40 people came out to try the classically Canadian sport and to share an evening of merrymaking with new friends and neighbours from across Huron County. (Scott Stephenson photo)

SNews from the Gentlemen’s Club with the Kansas Farmer

Special correspondent to The Citizen as curated by Paul Nichol

ome time ago, I commissioned a new map of downtown Brussels. My thought was that it went over so well in Blyth, we should give it a try in our town. Well, it took awhile, but I have recently received the final proof from the artist. I should have known better. What a debacle! What a disgrace! What a tragedy! What an embarrassment! What an insult!

For starters, the caption is entitled “The Village of Brussels”. Well everyone knows that we are no longer a village. Ever since amalgamation, we have just become a poor suburb of Seaforth. Secondly, someone is plowing up Janice Machan’s backyard with what looks to be a 1960 Ferguson 35. I don’t suppose either she or Paul appreciate that very much. Plus, heaven only knows who they might

find buried back there.

Paul and Barb Mutter appear to have horses stampeding all over their place (or they could be ugly sheep, it’s hard to tell). They might try to put the blame on Don Sholdice, but, either way, someone’s going to be in trouble with the Huron East bylaw enforcement officer (and trust me, you don’t want to mess with that guy).

Next, the Masonic Chapel looks full size. People will be disappointed when they realize you can’t get into it if you are over three feet tall. I wish to point out that there has never been, nor will there ever be whales in the Maitland River.

Another minor point perhaps, but the trees in the gazebo park appear to be hemlocks, not cedars.

Speaking of trees, the apple orchard that the Oldfields have

tended to all these years is given a high profile. And that orchard doesn’t even pay us taxes because it’s across the boundary in MorrisTurnberry!

Finally, Donny McNeil’s Shop is front and centre, right in the middle of town. It looks like a cross between Maple Leaf Gardens and the Royal Ontario Museum. I’d like to know how much he bribed the artist (or maybe it was Sue?). Either way, that might explain why neither one of them can afford a subscription to The Citizen In hindsight, I should have ordered a road map. In my opinion, this thing should never see the light of day. But if someone else has a better idea... I’m all ears.

Truthfully Yours, TKF

Art courtesy of Randy Jones

Reserves utilized in ACW budget

Continued from page 1

limit a levy increase to between six and eight per cent, a figure echoed by Councillor Wayne Forster. Councillor Anita Snobelen raised concerns about the effect a 10 per cent levy increase might have on farmland property owners, but nevertheless agreed the figure was fair and affordable.

Councillor Evan Hickey expressed a preference for a five per cent increase to the levy combined with an aggressive use of reserve funds. Finally, Councillor Curtis Blake called the mayor’s proposal “ridiculous, in my opinion” and said he wanted to limit the increase to between zero and three per cent.

Treasurer Ellen McManus took the lead in presenting the 2023 draft budget and noted the prepared numbers reflected no change in the township levy over 2022. McManus provided details covering general revenues, council expenses, administration costs, conservation authorities, protective inspection and control, roads administration, roads overhead, roads capital, public works operating expenses, gravel pit farms, street lighting, water department, landfill, waste collection and recycling, municipal drains, building department, development and planning

administration, general recreation, cemeteries, and requests for grants, with additional input coming from other senior level staff in attendance.

Council determined the main area up for discussion regarding potential cuts was the roads capital budget. Public Works

Superintendent Thomas McCarthy proposed the inclusion of capital investments for several projects including work on Hawkins Road, Dungannon Road, Gore Road, Presbyterian Camp Road, Melbourne Street, and Belfast Road. McNeil requested McCarthy prioritize the list so council could defer less urgent projects until another time. After some discussion, council arrived at the decision to remove the Hawkins Road, Dungannon Road and Belfast Road projects from the next draft of the budget, cutting a combined $910,000.

Chief Administrative Officer

Mark Beker updated council on the relative health of the township’s reserve funds, saying they were in very good shape. McManus concurred that there are sufficient funds available in reserves that could be drawn upon for the 2023 budget, but cautioned that depleting these resources now may cause future issues.

Restaurant owner found guilty, fined

On Feb. 28, in Goderich, Stephen Hill of Wingham was found guilty of three charges in violation of the Reopening Ontario Act, stemming from an incident at his Wingham restaurant, Buck and Jo’s, on Nov. 12, 2021.

The Justice of the Peace handed down $5,500 in fines to Hill$1,500 for failing to provide a COVID-19 safety plan, $1,500 for not checking for proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and $2,500 for failure to co-operate with Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) officials - while opting for a suspended sentence for the numbered company said to be associated with the restaurant and a finding of not guilty for Joanne Hill, Stephen’s wife, saying he could find no evidence of wrongdoing on her part.

The incident in question came after HPPH conducted Reopening Ontario Act inspections in North Huron in October of 2021. HPPH then issued a Section 22 order to close the restaurant in November of 2021 and HPPH representatives returned to the restaurant on Nov. 12, 2021 and testified that they found the restaurant to be open that day, resulting in the charges.

On Feb. 28, the Justice of the Peace said he was satisfied that prosecutor Greg Stewart had proven his case and found Hill guilty of the three charges in question. He also found the allegations to be consistent with the testimony and the video he was able to view as part of the case, which had been ongoing

for several months in Goderich. Stewart said that the maximum fine for each charge would be $5,000. However, with Hill having no record of prior offences, he felt that a per-charge fine of between $2,500 and $3,000 would be appropriate as a deterrent. He did acknowledge, however, that the deterrent in question would be compliance with provincial orders, citing that the specific order of COVID-19 vaccination requirements was no longer in place.

He did feel, however, that the nature of the charges during a worldwide pandemic that was resulting in deaths all over the world was an aggravating factor that should be considered.

Hill, who represented himself, attempted to defend his position numerous times during his time to address the court. The Justice of the Peace, however, told Hill that the case had been settled and he had handed down his verdict and that all that was being discussed was a penalty for the offences.

As a result, Hill said he felt the lowest possible fines should be issued, as he felt he and his restaurant did everything it could to keep people safe throughout the pandemic.

The Justice of the Peace then issued two $1,500 fines and one $2,500 fine. Hill asked for 10 years to pay, but the Justice of the Peace gave him one, telling him that he could always apply for an extension if he felt it was necessary.

The eyes of the Lord

(Brooks, “The Golden Key to Open Hidden Treasures”)

“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account!”

Mayor McNeil suggested moving $313,000 from the township’s reserve funds to achieve the goal of a 10 per cent increase to the levy.

The meeting concluded with a motion in favour of drafting of a resolution instructing township staff to include amendments to the draft budget that would result in a 7.17 per cent increase to the 2023 tax rate and a 10 per cent increase to the township levy, yielding an additional $544,144 for the municipal coffers. The motion carried in a recorded vote that saw Blake isolated as the only vote against it.

God is... all ear to hear, all hand to punish, all power to protect, all wisdom to direct, all goodness to relieve, all grace to pardon, all eye to observe the.. thoughts, hearts, words, ways, and walkings of men.

As the eyes of a well-drawn picture are fastened on us, wherever we move—so are the eyes of the Lord.

“For a man’s ways are in full view of the Lord, and He examines all his paths.” Proverbs 5:21

A Grace Gem

Submitted by: Immanuel United Reformed Church, Listowel, ON 519-492-1359

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Opinions

Memories that last a lifetime

info@northhuron.on.ca

Last weekend, Canadians bid farewell to prolific actor, director and writer Gordon Pinsent at the tender age of 92. The passing of a celebrity is often marked with sadness and tributes to their body of work, but the death of Pinsent went beyond the usual hyperbole and brought a wave of personal memories and anecdotes to social media.

Pinsent had a very local connection with Blyth going back decades, with two plays produced at the Blyth Festival. The first was John and the Missus in 1980 and later Corner Green had its world premiere in 2001. Local volunteers and board members recalled his generosity of spirit and it was evident that he left an impression on all he met. He returned at times to visit the theatre, whether to attend a performance, as an openingnight speaker or as a donor of a painting to a fundraiser.

In fact, many of the memories posted seemed to share a common theme, that, despite his celebrity, Mr. Pinsent went out of his way to leave an impression on those he met. From the exuberant community players in The Outdoor Donnellys who would risk the wrath of their stage manager for being late to their five-minute call so that they could get an autograph, to our own reporter, Scott Stephenson, who recalls Mr. Pinsent going out of his way to introduce himself by name with a handshake to a nervous young waiter, Mr. Pinsent was aware of the memory that he could create for those he met, even briefly.

He used those moments wisely, with wit and charm, and seemed genuinely interested. We could all take a lesson from Mr. Pinsent and take care to create good memories for everyone we meet. – DS

Coming and going

As any Canadian who doesn’t grow their own food has noticed, the cost of groceries is high. They have risen steadily in recent years to a point that has some people making accusations of price gouging.

In Canada, Loblaw has become the face of rising food costs (unfairly, according to those at Loblaw) and has since gone on the offensive, assuring customers that the company is not to blame for high food costs through social media discourse that is cringe-worthy and has been, predictably, poorly received by Canadians struggling to put food on the table. Last week, the Loblaw company line became even more difficult to defend as the company’s fourth-quarter profits exceeded analysts’ expectations, despite a price freeze on the company’s No Name brand of products (which has since been dropped), rising by about 10 per cent thanks to revenue of just a hair over $14 billion, which includes profit available to shareholders of nearly $530 million.

Right around that same time, Loblaw has told Canadians to expect the cost of food to keep rising, despite these handsome profit margins.

It’s hard, as a Canadian food consumer, not to feel over a barrel when Canada’s largest grocery chain posts record profits, insists it’s not the chain’s fault, and tells you to prepare for further increases.

Businesses have lean years and they have fat years. This is life. But as Canadians struggle to make ends meet, it’s hard not to watch profits like Loblaw’s roll in and wonder if we are all, indeed, in this together. The company’s position is one that’s getting harder to defend. – SL

Finding freedom

Last Friday night, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke in Toronto at a vigil in support of solidarity with Ukraine. The day solemnly marked one year since the Russian invasion began, but, by and large, spirits in the crowd remained celebratory. As Trudeau spoke, a belligerent individual shouted vitriolic rhetoric and spewed vulgar language in the Prime Minister’s direction, reminiscent of tactics used by the so-called “Freedom Convoy” protest of 2022. Unable to shake the distraction, the Prime Minister addressed the protester directly by saying, “Hey sir, I think Ukrainians could tell you a little bit about freedom and liberty, so why don’t you settle down?” to an eruption of support from the crowd. Trudeau punctuated his point by saying, “This is a night for them, not for you. This is a night for Ukrainians, not for you.”

On the opposite end of the province the very same night, the County of Huron partnered with the Seaforth Curling Club to deliver a fun, instructional night of curling for a burgeoning group of Ukrainian people who have left behind the devastation of war to start new lives in Canada. The event included a supper buffet, button-making activities for children and many smiling faces as people slid, swept and threw rocks across the sheet in Seaforth. The shouting at this event, unlike the hostility exhibited in Toronto, was a lot more encouraging. Bellows of “hurry” and “hard” rang out through the air, and only needed to meet the volume of laughter and jovial conversations already filling the space. The last year has challenged many to reconsider the meaning of the term “freedom”. In Canada, you are free to shout at the Prime Minister and you are also free to enjoy an evening of curling with friends. What’s profound about Canadian freedom is watching Ukrainian newcomers make that choice for themselves. – SBS

Looking Back Through the Years

March 3, 1966

There was a smaller turnout than usual, but the Women’s World Day of Prayer Service was celebrated by members of all the congregations in Brussels at Melvillle Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Margaret Thompson performed a song with Mrs. W.C. King on the organ.

Representatives from all over Huron County met to elect a 15man milk marketing board at a meeting in Seaforth. Princeton’s Charles Milton, general secretarymanager of the Ontario Milk Marketing Board, said that the division of boards into separate categories for shippers, producers of fluids, concentrated and cheese milk was not working. The goal, Milton continued, was to eventually form a singular committee to oversee milk production in the entire province.

Brussels Public School student Linda Wilson, daughter of Idella Wilson, won the senior elementary class speaking contest put on by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 180 of Wingham.

The members of Morning Star Rebekah Lodge of Brussels raised $259.09 as part of the March of Dimes Campaign. The organization exceeded its original goal of $240.

On “Thinking Day”, Captain Gert Kellington, assisted by Nora Stephenson, enrolled seven new members into their organization that would later be renamed Embers. The new members included Debbie Sanderson, Jackie McWhirter, Coleen Raymond, Ferne Elliott, Beth Vallance, Patty Beirnes and Janet Pearson.

March 3, 1976

Blyth Village Council awarded a licence for a 24-hour call taxi service. Mervin Ritchie, who made

his home on Westmoreland Street, was given an exclusive licence to provide the service in the village. The council approved a charge of $1 per trip and was swayed to award the licence because councillors believed there would be no additional cost to taxpayers.

The Blyth Centre for the Arts shared the good news of receiving a grant worth $2,500 to be put toward improvements at Memorial Hall. The grant was approved by the Richard Ivey Foundation of London and was awarded because of the enthusiasm demonstrated by the community about the theatre and the Blyth Summer Festival.

Natural Resources Minister Leo Bernier announced that the Maitland Valley Conservation Authority had been awarded a $33,000 Ontario Government grant to help address flooding issues in Listowel.

March 4, 1998

Noble Grand Sister Lorraine Edwards presided over the regular meeting of Morning Star Rebekah Lodge #315. Invitations were extended to members for an upcoming dinner in Exeter. The organization also finalized details for a casserole supper and euchre party to be held on March 16.

The Lodge’s 65th anniversary was fast approaching and it was decided that there would be a Friendship night to mark the occasion at the June 9 regular meeting of the Lodge.

The Blyth Midget Bulldogs had a fundraising auction to help cover the team’s expenses for an upcoming trip to Montreal. There were many prizes available that were presented by auctioneer Burt Lobb and included a Brandon Shanahan sweater that scored $550.

A Kub Kar Rally was held at Hullett Central Public School on a Saturday and Cubs from all over Huron County participated, including 100 per cent attendance from Blyth. The top 15 youth qualified to go to the Regional Kub Kar Rally in Palmerston in April. February 28, 2013 North Woods Elementary School and Maitland River Elementary School students competed against each other in the public speaking competition at the Brussels Legion. The annual event served as an opportunity for students to sharpen their oratory skills and abilities. The Primary Division winners were Benjamin Speer, Mary Sabourin, Paul Sabourin, and Joel Nesbit. The Junior Division winners were Ally Martin, Preston Currie, Erin Lindsay, Breelle Shaw, and Tyler Cullen. Legion President Deb Cann and Youth Chairman Nanci Ducharme were on hand to present the awards.

The Blyth Brussels Atom Girls salvaged a 1-1 tie in their game against Stratford on Feb. 20. The Blyth Brussels Bantam Local League Black team defeated the Minto Mad Dogs 7-1 in a blowout. Brussels Agricultural Society President Nicole Noble, her son Beckett, and Brussels Fall Fair Ambassador Meagan Dolmage, attended the annual Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies convention in Toronto. The theme of that year’s conference was, “Educate then Celebrate.” Dolmage said, “I enjoyed meeting many of the other ambassadors, listening to the talented and funny guest speakers and being able to represent Brussels. What a wonderful opportunity and great memories.”

Other Views

2 countries, similar yet so different

As the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine was marked last week, I couldn’t help but think what a similar position Canada has been in at times. situated as a small country beside a giant.

Canadians have lived at peace with their powerful neighbour for a long time, but the very fact there is a Canada is because of the fear of our neighbour 150 years ago. Canada had been invaded once by the Americans before the U.S. Revolution as Americans sought to remove a possible rebel from its northern border and Canada was seen mostly as French-Canadien, but the invasion failed.

During the War of 1812-1814 the Americans again tried, and failed, to “free” Canada from British rule. By then, thousands of Americans, loyal to Britain, had moved to the Maritime provinces, Quebec and what is now Ontario and were not tempted by the American experience.

During the 1837 Rebellion, Canadian rebels from Quebec and Ontario had sought to fight from the American side of the border, with American help, but the attempt to overturn the British government in Canada failed.

And so, after the American Civil War ended in 1865, Canadian governments expected similar unrest as hundreds of thousands of American troops, many of them with close ties to Ireland, were turned loose. Premiers such as Ontario’s John A. Macdonald, sought a confederation of provinces to scare off invaders. It worked. There were some raids into Canada, but no successful invasions.

The history between Canada and the U.S. has mostly been peaceful since then, despite the fact Canada joined both World Wars from the beginning, well before our American neighbours. On the other hand, Canada refused to get drawn into American misadventures like

Keith Roulston

From the cluttered desk

the Vietnam War. There were momentary disputes when Prime Minister John Diefenbaker did not go along with U.S. President John F. Kennedy over the blockade of Cuba to stop Russian posting of atomic missiles that could easily invade the U.S. without warning.

The situation between Russia and Ukraine is much more troubled. Ukraine, whether it liked it or not, was under the control of the Russian Czars before World War I and then joined the Union of Socialist Soviet Republics after the Communist revolution at the end of the war.

When that fell apart, Ukraine gained independence in 1991, and declared itself neutral.

Russia, after the rise of current President Vladimir Putin, attempted to re-establish the former Soviet Union (but without taking away the wealth of the aristocrats who had swept up Soviet-era businesses) and unilaterally annexed Ukraine’s Crimean Peninsula; and pro-Russian unrest culminated in a war between Russian-backed separatists and government forces in eastern Ukraine. Russia later launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February, 2022.

Russian leadership, blinded by its own sense of history, thought Ukraine would quickly fall to Russian invaders. It didn’t. While there may have been some areas of the country which were pro-Russian, vast areas were independent

and ready to fight for continuing their independence.

And so we find ourselves a year later, with Russia holding even less of Ukraine than it did a few weeks into the invasion. Meanwhile Ukrainians, assisted with weapons provided by Western nations who don’t want to see a young democracy overwhelmed by a major, undemocratic dictatorship, fight on. They have paid a terrible price with many towns and cities horribly devastated by Russia’s missiles, shells and bombs, mere fractions of what they once were.

Millions of Ukrainians have fled to Poland, Hungary, other European neighbours and Canada and the U.S. Their country is devastated and will take years to rebuild, even if peace returns.

Meanwhile, the Russian people are fed untruths about the situation by a media controlled by the dictators. Few realize that 15,000 Russian lives have been sacrificed (that’s the official version – other versions say the troops killed and wounded in Ukraine is approaching 200,000). They see pictures of damage in Ukraine as signs of victory, not the expense of wasted effort by their government (although some Russians have abandoned their delusive country).

It’s a deadly, expensive mess. We western nations continue to spend billions on weapons to support Ukraine and our economy is suffering inflation, in part, because of it. Russia is paying a heavy price for its leaders’ delusions of rebuilding their country’s past glory. The Ukrainian people suffer the most of all, some of their country occupied, all of it endangered.

We Canadians may have similarities, as a small country beside a giant, but we share little of the cost.

Nothin’ gets me down

Over the course of my life, especially in my younger days, I attended a lot of baseball games. My dad used to share season’s tickets with some of his work friends, so we would, consistently, go to about 10 or 12 Toronto Blue Jays games a year, until the strike turned him off of the whole thing.

As I became a teen and then an adult, I kept it up and would take in as much baseball as I  could. In those younger days, there were two things I always thought about as I sat in those uncomfortable, way-too-hot-in-the-summer, blue seats of the SkyDome (before it was the Rogers Centre). The first was that I always hoped to see my name up on the Jumbotron for my birthday (a dream that Jess made reality for me one year) and the second, which became more prevalent as I grew into a teen and started listening to the music of the time, was how great it would be to have my very own entrance music.

Of course, I played baseball my whole young life, so my teammates and I had played in big games and small games in fancy stadiums and dirt lots on the way to winning two provincial championships over my time. We always thought it was neat when we played at a diamond where the opposing team had an announcer and a loudspeaker. Having your name announced before you went up to hit was pretty amazing for a young kid. (This was an era before smartphones - we were easier to please back then.)

But we never dreamed we would get to pick our own walk-up music for an at-bat. Sure, we would sit around in the dugout and talk about what we’d pick and why. It was the late 1990s and we were all sporting, aggressive young men, so there would be all of the classics from that era, like the Beastie Boys, Rage Against the Machine or Metallica - all in an effort to get pumped up before you, obviously, hit a home run that travelled, more or less, 600 feet. Then the day finally came. I was a little older and a little wiser, but I was still playing for the Pickering Pirates when I was selected to be part of my league’s all-star team as the starting third baseman. This was actually the second year in a row that I’d made the team, which earned me a chance to play at the SkyDome, on the same Astroturf as my Blue Jay heroes before me. Moseby, Bell, Barfield, Gruber, Alomar, Borders, Olerud... Loughlin.

The first year was a great experience and the highlight, aside from actually playing on the field, was calling a fellow Pirate teammate on the phone as I sat in the dugout and he waited in the bullpen. (Again, no smartphones.)

The second year, though, they informed us that we would have walk-up music for at-bats. My dream was about to come true. My mind was racing. As a young man, now in my 20s, I could pick any song I wanted. Should I honour my 1990s self and pick something like that? Or, should I pick something different? The world was my oyster, so I put in the time and really thought about it.

I’m happy to report that my final decision was to come out to “Jump” by Van Halen from 1984. Most certainly a song that me from the 1990s would have turned his nose up at, but it was what I chose and I have no regrets about that. I had two at-bats, so the cavernous stands full of dozens of friends and family members got to hear that lovely tune not once, but twice. Looking at the album, man, I could have chosen “Panama” too. What a great song. Anyway, long story short, I got to live out a childhood dream that day in Toronto. It was different than what I thought it would be, all set to a soundtrack of Van Halen, but perfect.

This week's Maitland Valley Camera Club Photo of the Week comes by way of member Clara Blake, who snapped this icy image in Goderich last month when the temperatures dropped and all that was water and slush had turned to ice.

Connection Centre taking shape, despite critics

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Construction on the Northern Huron Connection Centre is well underway in Wingham, with April as the goal for opening.

The Connection Centre will be

located in the basement of St. Paul’s Trinity Church on John Street in downtown Wingham. The goal is to provide a much-needed place for community members to take a hot shower, have a meal and do laundry, but the centre’s primary purpose is to connect people to other services -

whether it be legal aid, domestic abuse support or addiction services. Service providers will be on-site during centre hours, assisting individuals in need.

On Feb. 25, the United Way of Perth-Huron held one of its “Coldest Night of the Year”

At the Branch Cadets hear from HASAR

By Jo-Ann McDonald

It was another quiet week at the Brussels Legion Branch. The normal activities of the Cadets and darts happened Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The Thursday night darts had some folks out to play and I had the results and then I didn’t. Maybe I will do better next week.

On Friday evening, loaded nachos were on the dinner menu. People report they were very good. Deb Ross was live in the usual time slot for the Catch the Ace draw, keeping people up to date with

what’s going on at the Branch. The paperwork will be filed on the Catch the Ace draw. We again congratulate winner Carol Fisher. She dropped into the Branch at the first of the week to pick up her cheque and have her picture taken. This Friday night the food will be beef on a bun.

Friday evening was karaoke with Stubby D. A good bunch with some good singers made a lively evening at the Branch. It’s great to have a good crowd.

Saturday had a full house at the Branch both up and down.

Members of the Cadet Corp gathered to learn about survival training. Downstairs, Jamie Mitchell was conducting a first aid course for the Huron and Area Search and Rescue ( HASAR) group both Saturday and Sunday. Don’t forget to get your murder mystery dinner tickets. The event supports the Leo Club and its fundraising goals. Tickets are available at Murray’s Barbershop, Brussels Legion and Zoellyn Onn at Riverside Funeral Home. Come out for a fun night and a roast beef dinner.

The Brussels Lions Club was at it again on Sunday, serving up breakfast to hungry diners at the Brussels, Morris and Grey Community Centre, all in an effort to raise money for community betterment through the club’s work. (John Stephenson photo)

Lions breakfast well attended

By Betty Graber Watson

Another month is finished. It was the shortest of the 12, but it’s always an interesting one. The weather these last few days is enough to want it to move along. Nothing like a good Huron County whiteout to finish off February. Now, on to the next.

It’s time now to check the supply of shamrocks and green clothing in your keeping. It seems that everyone has a bit of Irish in them each March, so get ready .

An interview on morning television made me realize how forward thinking the 5R’s people were in the 1990s when the store opened. This expert on recycling could have helped us start the store.

She hit the points of over-buying, wearing clothing for a limited time, and knowing where to donate items so they do not hit the dump. She talked about passing things to those who would use an item, donating to places that know where to send damaged goods and supporting recycling at thrift and second-hand stores. We need to be aware of the life span and cycle of our clothing. Know that the garbage from 5R’s is minimal as we work with other agencies to reuse and recycle items, even the remaking into new material, (think socks). As the environmental issues become more obvious, we have a lot to learn.

World Day of Prayer is on Friday at the Mennonite Church in Brussels. A worship service has been held for over 100 years all around the globe. It’s a time to open our eyes to the realities in our big world. Awareness, facts and understanding is offered each year as we learn about that specific country.

The Brussels Lions breakfast was well attended on Sunday; a good meal and a chance to support the

fundraisers in Wingham. The event received support from a range of local businesses, had 71 participants brave the cold for the walk-a-thon, and has raised an impressive $21,840 so far. Proceeds from the Wingham event are going towards the realization of the Northern Huron Connection Centre. The donation page will remain open until March 31 for anybody interested in helping the United Way of Perth-Huron and St. Paul’s Trinity Church to reach their goal of $45,000.

The Connection Centre project has received widespread community support since it was announced in the summer of 2022, but has also garnered a few detractors.

The Feb. 21 regular meeting of North Huron Council heard from two delegations on the centreRyan Erb, executive director with the United Way of Perth-Huron, offered a positive report on the project, while Wingham resident William Wallace voiced his feelings about the security risks he perceives as being part of this kind of community outreach.

Wallace, a relative newcomer to Wingham, previously spoke to council last October to air personal misgivings about the centre’s intended location. This time, Wallace covered much of the same ground as he did in October, but also implored council to use its official letterhead to request Huron County influence St. Paul’s Trinity and the United Way to install a number of high-definition surveillance cameras to record the church grounds in anticipation of possible unspecified safety concerns. He also explained that he has recently installed surveillance cameras on his own private property, ostensibly in response to an extant decrease in neighborhood safety. He expressed dissatisfaction with the United Way, saying, “the response from The United Way has been a wait-and-see approach, so if there are incidents that could require evidence of either wrongdoing or malfeasance or violence or anything else that has been unfortunately connected with centres like this, and I do say that it is unfortunate, that the wait-and-see

approach would simply be taken. I don’t believe that is strong enough.”

Erb countered Wallace’s claims of a correlation between Connection Centres and community disturbances. First, he thanked Wallace for reiterating his concerns once again, and explained that he has been “trying to help Mr. Wallace to understand that it has not been our experience that there have been any major incidents at any of the other Connection Centres in the region.”

This sentiment was echoed by Wingham Ward Councillor Mitch Wright, who said, “There’s a perception that these Connection Centres can become magnets for troubled individuals, but… the thought that went through my mind was typically people that are coming to the Connection Centre are people looking for help. The people that cause the trouble are the ones that aren’t looking for help.”

Erb also offered a general update on the Connection Centre’s progress, saying he was proud to help bring this project to the community.

More II is another time for

food and a chance to chat with friends new and old. Each Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. the doors of the Presbyterian church are open for you.

Bye now, Betty G.W.

Ironmen GM voices ice removal concerns

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

Wingham Ironmen General Manager Wayne Johnson brought forward his concerns about the effect the schedule for ice installation and removal at the Wingham arena will have on his team this year, at a meeting of North Huron Council on Feb. 21. Johnson says he is optimistic

about the team’s chances of going far in this year’s playoffs, which would create a conflict with the currently scheduled ice removal date of Apr. 1. “That puts the hockey team at somewhat of a risk,” said Johnson, explaining that less ice time and more out-of-town playoff games are not advantageous for victory. Playoffs can often go well into April, which would leave the highly competitive Ironmen

without a home arena at a critical time.

The Ironmen General Manager also recommended the ice be installed earlier, on Sept. 1, to allow team practices to occur on the team’s home ice at a comparable time to other teams in the league.

Johnson also had ideas for defraying costs of running the club.

During the summer and fall, he explained, he and other dedicated

A tough outing

The U11 Local League Burgundy Blyth Brussels Crusaders took to their home ice in Blyth on Sunday for a playoff contest with the Wingham Ironmen, their neighbours from the north. Unfortunately for the Crusaders, the home ice advantage wasn’t enough to propel them to a win, with the Ironmen coming out victorious by a score of 4-0. (John Stephenson photo)

BCBG advocates for arena

Continued from page 1 of the township exiting the agreement, and a sixth option to continue with the status quo.

Evans’ report notes approximately $56,000 is set aside in the draft 2023 budget for the Belgrave Community Centre and the township is incurring additional expenses related to repairs to the building’s foundation that are coming in on top of existing capital contributions.

Councillor Chris Palmer said he wants more time for community voices to be heard and noted the unique arrangement the township enjoys with the Belgrave Community Centre management board, contrasting the townshipoperated facilities in Blyth and Wingham. Palmer said, “The betterment of the Belgrave Community Centre is at risk here,” and urged the status quo option, characterizing any alternative decision as “reckless.” Palmer noted North Huron receives $17,000 of annual rental income from the facility that goes toward offsetting the township’s costs.

Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer bemoaned council’s divided approach to considering cuts to the various recreation assets throughout the township. Falconer expressed a preference for a discussion of potential recreation

cuts that simultaneously considers all of the facilities potentially impacted by budget decisions at once, rather than approaching each centre’s fate on a case-by-case basis. The Deputy-Reeve said allowing one centre to survive at the expense of another is not fair.

Councillor Mitch Wright concurred, saying, “I think we should deal with all North Huron assets at once as opposed to motion by motion by motion.”

Council then carried a motion to proceed with the status quo option regarding the existing relationship with Belgrave Community Centre management and intends to resume discussions about the fate of the township’s other recreation centres at the next meeting on March 6. Natalie Overholt, business owner, mother and recent Wingham transplant by way of Mount Forest, gained supportive applause from those in attendance when speaking during public comment about possible cuts to the recreation facility in Wingham. Overholt began her speech by apologizing for her intention to quickly depart after her allotted two minutes in order to retrieve her children from swimming lessons at the North Huron Wescast Community Complex. Overholt said she reached out to Evans to discuss another report he previously

volunteers, “go and pound the streets looking for sponsorships to operate the hockey club.” He estimates that operating costs this year will be around $100,000, and went on to request council sponsor a few home games in the name of community spirit. Costs have increased in recent years, and funding the team isn’t always easy, says Johnson.

Deputy-Reeve Kevin Falconer

pointed out that extending the Wingham arena’s season while discussing the possible partial closure of the Blyth arena was bad optics, and Councillor Chris Palmer warned of the high hydro cost associated with extending the arena’s ice schedule. Johnson countered with a warning of his own that the Ironmen plan to keep winning hockey games, and want a place of their own to do so.

Happy birthday to Brendan Hallahan, who will celebrate March 3; Debbie McDougall, March 5, and Barry MacDonald, March 8. Hope everyone has a good day on their special day.

Happy anniversary to Sheron and John Stadelmann, who will celebrate March 4.

On Tuesday as I was typing this column, the weather was mild with temperatures around the 0°C mark.

The forecast was for freezing rain and snow, which hadn’t developed yet. This year, winter does not seem to know which way to go. We have had more temperatures around 0°C than we have had below 0°C.

My family gathered at the home of Fred and Deb Hakkers to celebrate the February birthdays in our family: Austin Martin, my great-grandson, whose birthday

was Feb. 13, my own birthday was on Feb. 18 and my granddaughter Heidi’s birthday was on Feb. 24. We all enjoyed a roast beef dinner with all the trimmings. It was nice to have everyone together again. Don’t forget to come out to the Monday Morning Smile at Trinity Anglican Church and join in the laughter, have a coffee and a cookie or two from 10-11:30 a.m.

presented outlining options for cuts to North Huron’s recreation budget, but his unresponsiveness left her feeling like the only remaining choice was to speak directly to council.

Overholt said the recreation centre in Wingham was a driving force behind her family’s decision to relocate to the North Huron area and that she believes cutting services at the centre will discourage other families from considering the area as a suitable choice for resettlement. Overholt noted the report was drafted by Evans, a non-resident of the township, at which point lively applause interrupted proceedings. Overholt concluded with a plea for council to seriously consider alternate measures for finding cost savings.

Council also received correspondence from Karen Middleton-Meadham of the Blyth Community Betterment Group whose letter asks and answers, “Why is this arena so important in Blyth? That is a very simple thing to answer. Not only does the ability for families to use this facility work towards the betterment of physical and mental health, but it also helps to bring us together as a community. It is a centre point for social gatherings, events, and meetings.”

Sports

U15 C Heat destined for Leaside tournament

Scramble

The U13 C Huron Heat took on the St. Thomas Panthers in Clinton on Sunday in local playoff action. The team continued its solid playoff run with a 4-1 win over the visitors. The team also won its Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA) playdown later that night by a score of 2-0 over the Mitchell Meteors, marking a two-win day for the team. (John Stephenson photo)

By Shawn Loughlin

Citizen

The U15 C Huron Heat have now won their first eight playoff games, remaining perfect in the postseason to date.

The Heat defeated the Woodstock Wildcats on the road on Feb. 25 by a score of 3-2, which came after a 4-3 win over the Lucan Irish in

Seaforth on Feb. 21 and follows wins in their first six playoff games spanning from late January to midFebruary. They have since played two more playdowns, but scores were unavailable at press time. They travelled to St. Marys for a game with the St. Marys Rock on Feb. 28 and then to South Huron for a game with the Sabres on March 2.

Two wins, one day

The U13 C Huron Heat won their home playoff game in Clinton over the St. Thomas Panthers on Sunday by a score of 4-1, only to travel to Mitchell that night for an Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA) playdown with the Mitchell Meteors that the team also won - this time by a score of 2-0 - leaving them with plenty to celebrate. (John Stephenson photo)

Middlesex Junior Stars in Blyth on Feb. 18, which ended in a 2-2 tie.

Looking ahead, the U11 HL Heat have a playoff game with the Mooretown Lady Flags on March 5 on the road, followed by a March 12 playoff game, also on the road, against the B.A.D. Blazers.

On Sunday, Feb. 26, the U15 C Heat tied the South Huron Sabres in Clinton in a playdown by a score of 1-1, followed by a game between the U15 BB Heat and the South Huron Sabres, also in Clinton, which the locals lost by a score of 3-0.

That evening, the U11 B Heat played the Lucan Irish on the road, winning by a score of 5-1, and the U13 C Heat won their Ontario Women’s Hockey Association (OWHA) playdown over the Mitchell Meteors on the road by a score of 2-0, while the Senior team welcomed Monkton to Hensall, though a score was unavailable at press time.

The U9 HL White Heat won their

game against the Ilderton Jets in Seaforth on Feb. 25 by a score of 31, while the U9 HL Black team won their game in Seaforth with the North Middlesex Junior Stars by a score of 4-0.

That night, the U18 BB Heat welcomed the Bluewater Hawks to Clinton and beat them by a score of 2-1, while the Senior team played Monkton on the road, but a score was unavailable at press time.

On Feb. 24, the U13 B Heat beat the St. Marys Rock in a playdown in Seaforth by a score of 3-0, while, on Feb. 23, the U18 C Heat lost their playdown against the South Huron Sabres on the road by a score of 2-1.

The U9 B Heat played the South  Huron Sabres in Seaforth on Feb. 21, but a score was unavailable at press time. Meanwhile, the U15 BB Heat tied their playdown with the South Huron Sabres on the road by a score of 1-1 and the U13 C Heat lost their OWHA playdown against

Continued on page 9

DONATION FUND

The U18 BB Heat now find themselves in the playoffs with two games with the St. Thomas Panthers ahead of them: a March 5 game in Goderich and then a March 7 game in Clinton.

The U18 C Heat won their Feb. 24 playoff game over the Sarnia Lady Sting in Seaforth by a score of 3-0. They then claimed another playoff victory on Feb. 26 over the London Devilettes in Clinton, also by a score of 3-0.

They were due to play the Devilettes again in playoff action on the road on March 1, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The U18 C Heat are next in action against the St. Thomas Panthers on March 5 in Clinton, followed by a road game against the South Huron Sabres on March 11.

The U15 C Heat won their Feb. 26 contest with the St. Thomas Panthers in Clinton by a score of 41, which closely followed a Feb. 25 loss to the Bluewater Hawks on the road by a score of 1-0.

The team is next in playoff action with a home-and-home series with the B.A.D. Blazers on the road on March 5 and then again on March 12 at home in Clinton.

The U11 C Heat ended their Feb. 26 playoff game in Clinton against the Wallaceburg Lakers in a scoreless tie, following a 3-2 playoff loss to the Woodstock Wildcats in Blyth and a 1-1 tie with the Central Perth Predators on the road on Feb. 23.

They next play the Wallaceburg Lakers on March 11 on the road.

The final Huron Heat team working its way through the playoffs right now is the U11 HL Heat, who played the Sarnia Lady Sting on Feb. 25 in Seaforth, but a score was unavailable at press time. Prior to that, the team’s last playoff game was against the North

The Municipality of Central Huron is pleased to announce their annual Central Huron Donation Fund. The Municipality will again set aside funds to assist and promote community-based nonprofit organizations. Funding is also available for national and international non-profit organizations provided that they have a local branch or affiliate and whose programs demonstrate a direct benefit for the residents of our Municipality. Organizations and/or community groups whose primary focus is not within the Municipality are eligible to apply for donations, however preference will be given to organizations and/or charities whose primary focus is within the Municipality.

To Qualify

Organizations must be non-profit. Proposed programs or events must clearly demonstrate a direct social or economic benefit for residents of Central Huron. Successful organizations will be required to submit a post project report identifying the use of the funds.

Further information can be found on our website: https://www.centralhuron.ca/en/business-anddevelopment/donation-fund.aspx

Application

Applications for funding should include:

• Description of program or event

• Date of program or event

• Organization budget for proposed program or event

• Targeted resident group, if appropriate

• Supporting information including statistics for previous similar projects

• Amount of funding requested, specifying whether a cash or in-kind donation is required.

If your organization has questions or comments they should be directed to the undersigned at 519-482-3997 Ext. 1230 or email records@centralhuron.com.

Applications clearly marked Central Huron Donation Fund are to be received by the undersigned on Friday, March 31, 2023:

Nicole Lowe, Records Clerk Municipality of Central Huron 23 Albert St. PO Box 400 Clinton, Ontario N0M 1L0 records@centralhuron.com

The

U11 C Heat, Lakers end in scoreless playoff tie

A couple of brick walls

The U11 C Huron Heat took on the Wallaceburg Lakers on Sunday morning in Clinton as part of the league’s continuing playoffs. However, neither goaltender gave an inch to their opponent and the game ended in a scoreless tie. The two teams will clash again on March 11, this time in Wallaceburg. (John Stephenson photo)

Ironmen still in fourth place Sports

By Shawn Loughlin

The Wingham Ironmen kept up their winning ways over the weekend, winning both of their games thanks to two, eight-goal performances over the Walkerton Capitals and the Goderich Flyers.

On Saturday, the Ironmen beat the Flyers in Goderich by a score of 8-2, which came just one day after the locals defeated the Capitals in  Walkerton by a score of 8-5.

When the Ironmen took on the Flyers in Goderich on Saturday, it was the Flyers that would score the first two goals, followed by eight unanswered Ironmen goals to seal the win for Wingham.

Jeff Fritzley opened the scoring for the Flyers at 1:30 of the first period with his 11th goal of the season, assisted by Owen Shore and Iain MacIsaac, followed by MacIsaac scoring his 10th goal of the season at 4:49 of the period, assisted by Shore and Logan Ferreira.

After that, it was all Wingham.

Noah Wettlaufer scored his sixth goal of the season at 11:51 of the first period, assisted by Micah Kraayenbrink and Dawson Fahrer.

Noah Bloemberg then followed with his 14th and 15th goals of the season. His first goal of the game was unassisted, scored at 13:45 of the first period, followed by another at 17:48 of the period, assisted by Dawson Fahrer and Kyle Stanbury.

In the second period, Tayt Bramhill scored his ninth goal of the season at 10:20, assisted by Coleson Fischer, followed by Kyle Stanbury scoring his 26th goal of the season, assisted by Austin Becker and

Dawson Fahrer on the power play.

Noah Wettlaufer scored his second goal of the game, his seventh of the season, at 17:22 of the period, assisted by Josh Dales, followed by Kyle Stanbury scoring his 27th goal of the season just as the second period expired. Nate Bloemberg and Tayt Bramhill assisted on the marker.

At 17:28 of the third period, Kyle Stanbury completed his hat trick with his 28th goal of the season, assisted by Tayt Bramhill and Noah Bloemberg.

Evan Knight earned the win for the Ironmen in the Wingham net, stopping 18 of the 20 shots he faced, while Liam McCarthy was in net for the Flyers, suffering the loss and stopping 50 of the 58 shots he faced.

Goderich’s Wilder Hoggarth was called for the first penalty of the game when he was cited for hooking at 8:52 of the first period.

Wingham’s Noah Bloemberg was called for unsportsmanlike conduct as the first period expired, which is also when Wingham’s Turner Mckenzie and Goderich’s Cameron McCarthy were both called for roughing after the whistle.

Noah Wettlaufer was called for tripping at 10:47 of the second period, followed by a roughing penalty called against Goderich’s Carson Stutzman at 11:40 of the period.

In the third period, Goderich’s Tayden Hannivan was called for roughing at 4:53 of the period, followed by a four-minute major head contact penalty called against Goderich’s Cameron McCarthy at 7:25 of the period, which also saw him ejected from the game.

Continued from page 8 the South Huron Sabres by a score of 4-2 on the road.

The U15 C Heat ended their playdown with the Upper Maitland Mustangs on the road on Feb. 20 in a scoreless tie.

On Feb. 28, the U11 B Heat hosted a playdown with the Stratford Aces in Seaforth just ahead of a playdown between the U13 C Heat and the St. Marys Rock, also in Seaforth. The U15 BB  Heat were in South Huron for a playdown against the Sabres, while the U15 C Heat took on the St. Marys Rock in a playdown on the road, but scores were unavailable for those games at press time.

Also that night, the U9 HL White and U9 HL Black teams played each other in a local game at the Seaforth arena.

On March 2, the U11 C Heat, the U15 C Heat and the U18 BB Heat all had playdowns. The U11 C Heat welcomed the South Huron Sabres to Blyth, while the U18 BB Heat hosted the South Huron Sabres in Seaforth and the U15 C Heat were on the road to play the South Huron Sabres. Scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

ction with a game against the Lucan Irish.

Also that morning, the U9 B Heat will play the South Huron Sabres on the road, while the U18 BB Heat will travel to Stratford for a playdown with the Aces and the U13 B Heat will also be on the road for a playdown with the St. Marys Rock.

On Sunday, March 5, the U13 B  Heat will host a playdown with the St. Marys Rock in Clinton, while the U15 BB Heat will welcome the South Huron Sabres to Clinton for a playdown.

Also that day, the U15 C Heat will host a playdown with the Lucknow/Wingham 86ers in Clinton and the Senior team will welcome Exeter to Hensall for a playdown.

On Monday, March 6, the U13 B Heat will be on the road for a playdown with the St. Marys Rock and the next day the U15 C Heat will host a playdown with the St. Marys Rock in Seaforth.

the Ironmen beat the Capitals by a score of 8-5, despite the Capitals scoring the first three goals of the game that night.

Capital Keegan Fischer opened the scoring with his fifth goal of the season, scored at 4:09 of the period, assisted by Sam Shakes and Kyle Durrer.

Walkerton’s Eliott McCarey followed with his ninth and 10th goals of the season, both assisted by

Continued on page 10

This weekend, the U11 C, U11 HL and U9 HL White Heat teams will be in Mitchell for a tournament. The U11 C Heat will first play the Central Perth Predators and then the Grey Highlands Shooting Stars on March 3, while the U9 HL White team will play the Ilderton HL Jets that day.

That night, the U18 C Heat will host a playdown with the South Huron Sabres in Seaforth.

On Saturday, March 4, the U9 HL  Black team will be in Orangeville for a tournament, while the U9 HL White team will begin its tournament action in Mitchell with games against the Stoney Creek Sabres and the Bluewater Hawks. The U11 C Heat also continue their Mitchell tournament a

The U18 C Heat will travel to Mitchell on March 8 for a playdown with the Meteors, followed by an OWHA playdown, also against the Meteors, in Seaforth on March 9. Also that day, the U11 C Heat will host an OWHA  playdown with the Upper Maitland Mustangs in Blyth.

On March 10, the U15 C Heat will travel to the Toronto Leaside March Break Madness tournament, beginning with a game against the Buffalo Bison U15 B team, followed by a game with the Leaside Wildcats Sullivan U15 B team.

That night, the U13 B Heat will host a playdown with the St. Marys Rock in Seaforth.

On March 11, the U15 C Heat continue their tournament play with a game against the Toronto Leaside O’Leary U15 B team and on March 12, the U18 C Heat will host a playdown in Clinton against the Lucknow/Wingham 86ers.

On Friday night in Walkerton,

Coaches and parents ~ we need your team’s picture and players’ names

1. Please submit team photo A.S.A.P.

2. Please include players’ and coaches’ names for under the photo. Please help us get ALL the Winter Sports teams published. 405 Queen St., Blyth 519-523-4792

The Citizen

Sports

U15 Rep Crusaders win four of five to begin playoffs

Digging for the puck

The U11 Rep Blyth Brussels Crusaders welcomed the Mid-Huron Huskies to Blyth on Sunday for a playoff game. However, unfortunately for the locals, the Huskies were able to pull out a win that evening, triumphing by a score of 4-2. (John Stephenson photo)

By Shawn Loughlin The Citizen

The U15 Rep Blyth Brussels Crusaders have had a great start to their playoff run, winning four of the five games they’ve played, with their only loss coming in overtime.

The Crusaders beat the Mitchell Meteors on Feb. 25 in Blyth by a score of 6-0. That comes after a 4-3 win over the Huron-Bruce Blizzard in Ripley on Feb. 23 and a 4-3 overtime loss to the Walkerton Capitals in Brussels on Feb. 21.

The team took on the Mount Forest Rams for its next playoff game on Feb. 28 in Brussels, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The Crusaders then host the Huron-Bruce Blizzard in Blyth on March 4, followed by a contest with the Capitals in Walkerton on March 6. The Hanover Falcons will be in Brussels on March 7 to play the Crusaders and then the locals will make their way to Shallow Lake for a game with the Lakers on March 11.

The U11 Rep team lost its playoff game with the Mid-Huron Huskies by a score of 4-2 in Blyth on Feb. 26, which came after an 8-1 loss at the hands of the AEMHA Ice Dogs on the road on Feb. 25 and a 5-4 win over the Wingham Ironmen in Brussels on Feb. 24.

The Crusaders next played the AEMHA Ice Dogs on March 2, but a score was unavailable at press time. They are then in Wingham for two games against the Ironmen on March 5 and March 9, followed by a home game in Brussels against the Mid-Huron Huskies on March 14.

The U11 Local League Black team is also in the playoffs, but, after a Feb. 16, 2-1 win over the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth, the team has lost its next three playoff appearances. The Crusaders fell to the Mitchell Meteors in Mitchell by a score of 4-3 on Feb. 18, followed by a 7-2 loss to the Listowel Cyclones in Blyth on Feb. 19 and a 2-1 loss to the Mitchell Meteors in

Continued on page 22

Ironmen beat Walkerton, Goderich over weekend

Counting down

The Wingham Ironmen, seen above, in a recent clash with the Mitchell Hawks, only have one regular season game left when they take on the last-place Goderich Flyers this weekend in Goderich. (John Stephenson photo)

Continued from page 9 Clayton Fitzsimmons, at 5:52 and 6:02 of the first period, respectively.

Wingham got on the scoreboard at 16:54 of the first period when Jonah Burley scored his eighth goal of the season, assisted by Noah Wettlaufer and Micah Kraayenbrink.

The Ironmen would score six goals in the second period, compared to just one by the Capitals.

Dawson Fahrer of the Ironmen scored his fourth goal of the season just 57 seconds into the second period, assisted by Coleson Fischer, followed by Nolan Janes scoring his first goal of the season. Chase Lorenz and Coleson Fischer assisted on the goal.

Wingham’s Austin Becker then scored his 10th goal of the season at the seven-minute mark of the period, assisted by Coleson Fischer and Kyle Stanbury on the power play.

Less than a minute later, at 7:51 of the period, Kyle Stanbury scored his 23rd goal of the season, unassisted.

J.J. Lavigne of the Capitals then scored his sixth goal of the season at 8:04 of the period, assisted by Keegan Fischer and Sam Shakes, followed by Wingham’s Austin Becker scoring his 11th goal of the season at 11:51 of the period, assisted by Dawson Fahrer, and Kyle Stanbury’s 24th goal of the season, and his second of the game, at 17:37 of the second period. Nate Bloemberg and Noah Bloemberg were awarded assists on the play.

Stanbury would earn his hat trick - the first of two in as many dayswith his 25th goal of the season at 5:22 of the third period, assisted by Brandon Bishop.

Ethan Kerr would score for the Capitals at 7:52 of the third period, assisted by Owen Tichbourne and Aiden Mead, but it was too little, too late for Walkerton.

Garrett Golley played all 60 minutes of the game in the Wingham Ironmen net, stopping 37 of the 42 shots he faced. Logan Bromley began the game in the Capitals’ net, stopping five of the first 10 shots he faced. He was then replaced by Matt Vahramain, who earned the loss for his team, stopping six of the eight shots he faced. Bromley, however, returned to the net for the third period and stopped nine of the 10 shots he faced in his second stint in net that game.

There were no penalties called in the first period, so Walkerton’s Kyle Durrer had the first penalty of the game when he was called for tripping at 6:35 of the second period.

Wingham’s Austin Becker was then called for interference at 9:56 of the second period, followed by another interference call against Wingham’s Nigel Kreager at 14:26 of the period.

Kreager was then assessed a fourminute major tripping penalty at 4:06 of the third period alongside two penalties called against

Walkerton’s Caleb Morrison for slashing and cross checking.

Wingham’s Micah Kraayenbrink was assessed the final penalty of the night when he was called for interference at 17:49 of the third period.

The Ironmen have one game left on the regular season schedule: a March 4 contest with the Goderich Flyers in Goderich.

The Mount Forest Patriots remain in first place in the North Pollock Division of the Provincial Junior Hockey League with 61 points and a record of 30-9-0-1. The

Hanover Barons are in second place with a record of 26-9-2-2 and 56, followed by the Mitchell Hawks in third place and the Wingham Ironmen in fourth place, both of whom sit at 53 points. The Hawks have a record of 24-11-3-2, while the Ironmen have a record of 25-13-2-1.

The Kincardine Bulldogs sit in fifth place with 40 points and a record of 17-17-5-1, followed by the sixth-place Walkerton Capitals with a record of 7-30-1-1 and the last-place Goderich Flyers with 14 points and a record of 6-31-2-0.

SUDOKU

Fun By The Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mindbending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test!

Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

BRIDAL f{Éãvtáx ECEF

Venue among a couple’s biggest decisions

Have a seat

For couples, choosing a venue for the big day is one of the biggest decisions they’ll make during the planning process. There are many things to consider, including cost, location and the kind of ceremony a couple wants to have when the time comes. (MS photo)

MS - Every decision engaged couples make in regard to their weddings is significant, but some may affect the day more than others. Perhaps no decision will help couples set the tone they hope to establish more than their choice of reception venue.

Reception venues are where couples and their guests will spend the vast majority of their time on the wedding day, which is why choice of venue bears such significance. With that in mind, couples can consider these tips as they look for the perfect place to host their receptions.

• Decide what you want out of a venue: Prospective brides and grooms may have vastly different ideas regarding how they want their

weddings to go, and it’s imperative that couples discuss their ideal weddings prior to looking for a venue. Do you want to get married in a place of worship? Or do you prefer a venue that can host both the ceremony and reception? Do you want an indoor, outdoor or hybrid ceremony and reception? Define what you both want before looking for a venue and make the necessary concessions if you have different ideas in mind.

• Consider picking a venue before setting a date: It can be wise to pick a reception venue first and then choose your wedding date based on the availability of the venue. This is especially important for couples who already have an ideal venue in mind, and it also

wedding season, but that venue could be less costly during slower times of year. By waiting to pick a date until you’ve chosen a venue, you’re increasing your options.

• Consider your guests: Though couples, particularly those footing the bill on their own, should prioritize their desires when choosing a reception, it’s important they also consider their guests before making a final decision. A venue that’s accessible and located near transit hubs like airports and train stations will increase the likelihood that more people can attend. In addition, if children will be invited, a venue that includes family restrooms, including at least one with a changing table, can make parents’ nights much easier.

• Consider your budget: The Knot 2021 Real Weddings Study found that couples typically spend around 30 per cent of their overall budget on the venue, which makes this decision the biggest one in terms of the financial commitments a couple will have to make. Couples may be tempted to choose an awe-

inspiring, costly venue for their reception, but they should consider how devoting so much of their budget to the venue will affect the rest of their big day. The best reception venue might be one that won’t eat up too much of your budget.

• Consider the package: Venues vary in terms of their reception packages. Some may offer catering, including beverages, with each of their packages, while food and beverage might not be part of other venues’ offerings. If you find a venue you love, but it doesn’t offer catering services, seek estimates from area caterers to determine how much it will cost to feed and serve your guests. Many couples find it more convenient and less stressful to pick a venue that offers on-site catering, though plenty of others have had no trouble after choosing a venue and separate caterer. The bulk of a couple’s wedding day and night will be spent at the reception, making choice of venue one of the more fun and important decisions they’ll have to make.

provides some flexibility as couples search for the venue. For example, couples working within a strict budget may not be able to afford a preferred venue during the height of

Curating a guest list can be fun, challenging

Unless a couple has chosen to elope, even the smallest

are not celebrations without the guests. Creating a guest list that

and ticks all of the couple’s necessary boxes can be a fun exercise, but it can also be challenging, with a number of factors in play before the final list is made. (MS photo)

MS - Weddings are such momentous occasions that it’s no wonder couples want to share their big days with as many people as possible. Though a wedding where all friends, family members and acquaintances are in attendance may be a dream scenario, reality often calls for a more carefully curated guest list.

Data from The Wedding Report indicates that the average cost of a

wedding in the United States is slightly more than $20,000, though that figure could be substantially higher, or even lower, depending on where couples tie the knot. Both The Wedding Report and The Knot report that a wedding venue and catering make up a significant percentage of the overall cost of a wedding, with some figures indicating that these expenses account for around 65 per cent of

the final price tag. The number of guests couples will host on their wedding day will affect which venue they book and how much food and beverages they’ll need to satisfy guests. Couples who hope to stay within budget can consider these tips as they try to build a guest list that won't break the bank.

• Accept input: Parents may no longer foot the entire bill for their children’s weddings, but couples

Weddings are rooted in tradition

MS - Weddings are steeped in tradition. Some of those traditions may be exclusive to particular families, but many others are embraced by families of various backgrounds.

Couples needn’t feel beholden to popular wedding traditions, but some may feel that these customs make their weddings more fun and serve as a great way to connect their ceremonies with those of their parents, grandparents and possibly even their ancestors.

• Old, new, borrowed, blue: The rhyme, “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”, is likely familiar to people about to get married. This traditional rhyme has existed for

centuries and refers to items a bride should wear and keep with her on her wedding day. The old alludes to a bride’s past, the new refers to her future, the borrowed is intended to be something borrowed from a married couple or bride, and the blue is a symbol of purity, love and fidelity. These items are traditionally given to the bride-tobe by family members or female friends who are already married.

• Bridal veil:  It’s now up to brides if they want to wear a veil on their wedding day, but it was once a tradition all brides adhered to. Some trace the tradition back to ancient Greece, while others suggest the tradition began in the days of the Roman Empire.

who are accepting some financial help from parents must also accept Mom’s and Dad’s input regarding the guest list. Even if parents’ desired guests do not ultimately make the cut, it’s best to respect their wishes and consider who they want to invite. Couples who are financing their own weddings without outside help need not feel beholden to invite anyone who does not meet their invitation criteria.

Make a preliminary list without regard to budget: Couples can have fun making preliminary guest lists without considering their budgets. A preliminary list can serve as a solid starting point, and couples may even realize that their list is within budget. Once the preliminary lists have been created, couples can categorize guests (i.e., distant cousins, coworkers, etc.) and then work together to determine if any categories can be eliminated from the invitation list. For example, couples who may be going over budget with their guest lists can each agree to remove distant cousins from their prospective invitees.

• Seek advice: Many couples face difficult decisions regarding their wedding day guest lists, so it can be helpful to speak to a recently married friend or relative to see how they handled paring down their guest lists. Some might have done it by category, while others might have limited guest lists to local friends and family. When taking this approach, couples can speak to friends about how they approached handling people who were surprised that they were not on the final list of invitees.

• Throw a less formal party down the road: A less expensive backyard barbecue within weeks of tying the knot can serve as a less costly alternative to a large wedding reception. Couples who take this approach can keep their wedding day guest lists to a minimum, but invite everyone they hope to see to a post-wedding day backyard barbecue or potluck picnic so they can celebrate with everyone they love.

Curating a wedding day guest list is no small task. However, couples can try various approaches to keep a guest list more manageable and less expensive.

Veils were believed to shield brides from evil spirits on their wedding day, thus paving the way for a healthy and happy future. Many brides still wear veils today, though likely due more to their aesthetic appeal than out of a belief that the veil will ward off evil spirits. Some brides still use veils to cover their face as they walk up the aisle, while others flip the veil over their heads.

• Gifting knives: Perhaps one of the lesser known superstitions surrounding weddings, giving knives as a wedding gift is a no-no for some people. The origins of this superstition are uncertain, but people who abide by this tradition

Continued on page 17

Makeup for the big day? Do your homework

suggestions on a colour palette and products that will complement skin tone and needs.

• Masters “striking” but “natural”: Many brides desire natural looks on their wedding days, but fail to understand that this is one of the most photographed moments in their lives. Highdefinition cameras and lighting can affect how makeup appears in film and in photographs, as well as what a complexion and pores will look like. Taking photos during the trial appointment will help you see what you will look like in pictures, which may be different from how makeup appears when looking in the mirror.

Chances are a bride will need to

be much more made up than she thinks when asking for natural. A qualified artist can strike a balance between natural and photoready.

• Touch-ups: Some makeup artists are willing to be available for a short time before the start of the reception. This gives them the opportunity to touch-up makeup if needed after the ceremony when most of the posed photos are taken. Also, adjustments can be made at this time if a bride wants a “nighttime” look.

A makeup artist can help couples look their best during their weddings, making them a worthy investment of time and money.

MS - A wedding gives couples a chance to shine and celebrate their love for one another. Naturally, all eyes are on the happy couple on their wedding day, and that means brides and grooms want to look their best. For those planning to wear makeup, relying on a skilled makeup artist can make a big difference in how couples look in videos and photographs.

Professional makeup artists will be acquainted with techniques that can enhance individuals’ looks on their wedding day. Makeup artists recognize which products to use to ensure a flawless face lasts all day. This person also can take the pressure off the bride having to do makeup herself, meaning the bride can sit back and relax for a half hour or more and enjoy being pampered. Techniques like lash

applications, contouring and highlighting require skill, and skilled makeup professionals are well-trained in these areas.

When shopping around for makeup artists, couples with limited knowledge of what to expect can look for certain factors to help them make the most informed decision.

• Professional products: There may be a stark difference between cosmetics and beauty products purchased at the drug store and the professional-grade items used by makeup artists. Professional products have been engineered for specific applications. They tend to be long-wearing and luxurious. Look for a makeup artist who uses top-notch brands.

• Trial application: A bride’s vision and the makeup artist’s vision may not be one and the same. Only after a trial application can you determine if the makeup artist is able to deliver the look you desire. It’s important for a bride-tobe to go to the trial appointment with an open mind and reserve judgment until the application is complete. A professional can make

Flowers are essential to the wedding experience

Something in the air

The presence of flowers has permeated all aspects of a wedding over the years, from the bride’s bouqet to centrepieces to corsages. Flowers are an ever-present aspect of the knot-tying process. Here are some things to think about ahead of the big day when it comes to flower selection, placement and more. (MS photo)

MS - Various elements come together to complete a wedding day visual. Floral arrangements are one such component that can create a special and awe-inspiring ambiance.

Flowers appeal to at least three of the senses. Their delicate aroma can help a venue smell fresh and inviting. And it’s hard to deny the visual appeal of a stunning floral arrangement. There are colours, sizes, textures and much more that can cater to any theme. In addition, flowers can add a tactile element, even if guests do not go around touching the blooms.

Flowers convey so much during weddings that it’s important to make finding a florist a priority, according to the wedding resource The Knot. The following is a guide to understanding floral arrangements that may be included in a wedding.

• Bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres: The wedding party, bride, groom and parents of the couple are set apart from others at the wedding ceremony by the special flowers on their attire and in their hands, among other indicators. Boutonnieres are a single bud pinned to the left side of a gentleman’s jacket. Corsages can be attached to a dress, but are now

often worn on the wrist. Bouquets are held in hand. They can be a few flowers gathered together, or more extensive displays. Bouquets may feature bare stems, or stems may be bound and hidden beneath ribbon and fabric.

Some couples also have a small tossing bouquet to use later in the day. Flower petals for a flower girl to drop down the aisle also may be part of the floral plan.

• Ceremony flowers: Guests often are first introduced to floral arrangements at the wedding ceremony. Potted or vase-encased flowers may bookend the couple at the altar. Seats or pews may be adorned with flower sprays to draw attention to the aisle, known as aisle markers. These are subtle choices

that enhance the ceremony space.

• Reception components: Flowers may truly shine during the reception. They’re one of the most important components when decorating the space. Flowers serve as centrepieces, so the guest list and

the number of tables will dictate how many centrepieces are required. These centrepieces can be elaborate or simply a few loose flowers in vases. Florists can customize the look depending on couples’ budgets. Some additional reception flowers can include installations on arches or on anything hanging like a floral backdrop for photo opportunities.

• Tips and tricks: Couples should create a list of everywhere they would like to use flowers and present it, along with magazine clippings or planning boards, to

show florists what they have in mind when shopping services, according to Hummingbird Wedding Advice. A 2021 survey from The Knot reported that the average cost for wedding flowers was $2,300 U.S. It’s important to set a strict budget so florists can present ideas that are in line with what couples can spend. Many expensive looks can be replicated with in-season flowers or less costly alternatives.

Flowers are an important part of the wedding day and should be incorporated into couples’ budgets.

Everyone will see it, make sure to get it right

Dress for the day

A wedding dress can be one of a couple’s biggest expenses and it’s certainly one of the more spectacular visuals associated with the traditional wedding. There are many factors to consider when choosing a wedding dress - everything from cost to style to body type - that will all be part of a decision that will echo for years to come. (MS photo)

MS - Planning a wedding requires making many different decisions. The choice of wedding attire is among the most crucial decisions that couples must make. Whether the wedding is traditional or customized to suit couples’ personalities, brides and grooms want to look their best when they say, “I do”.

Many brides-to-be spend a significant amount of time looking for their ideal wedding dresses. What defines the right gown depends on personal preference and is unique to the person doing the search. For example, a dress that sets a fairy tale scene for one bride may not necessarily align with the tastes of another. According to Bridal Atelier, the average bride-tobe tries on three to seven dresses

before finding the right one. The following tips can help those shopping for dresses find a look that makes their big day even more special.

• Don’t get hung up on perfection: Many brides get caught up as they search for the one dress they consider perfect. No dress is likely to check every box. Getting hung up on a desire to find a dress that has it all may make it hard to see the beauty in other dresses. Remember, with the talents of an experienced tailor or seamstress, most dresses can be tweaked to suit your vision of the ideal gown.

• Consider the season: Getting married during the hazy and humid days of summer is an entirely different experience than tying the knot during the heart of winter. The

basque or asymmetrical waistline. Gowns with substantial straps or higher necklines may be better if you have a larger chest. Sheath and mermaid style gowns are options if you are confident with your figure and want to show off your curves.

• Try a bit of this and that: Don’t go into a wedding dress appointment with firm parameters. Although you may have a ball gown style in mind, after trying on other options something with a less voluminous silhouette may actually catch your eye. Many brides also automatically defer to strapless gowns, when various straps and sleeves can be very appealing.

• Arrive with a firm budget: Weddings can be costly. It’s important to set a budget for the wedding dress just as you will with other expenses. There are plenty of dress designers across a wide spectrum of price points. A willingness to consider and ultimately purchase a less costly dress can help you stay on budget.

Browsing through magazines and

looking online can provide wedding dress inspiration as well. Also, when in doubt, defer to the experts at bridal shops who have experience choosing dresses that brides are inclined to love.

fabric of the wedding dress should complement the season, whether it’s lightweight and breezy for a warm day, or more substantial and cozy when darting to the ceremony in snowfall.

• Flatter your figure: Chances are that brides-to-be know which cuts and styles are most flattering. Mimic those style choices in the wedding dress. If you want to take focus off of full hips, choose a

Staying on budget is key to wedding planning

It all comes down to budget

While every couple wants to splurge on their dream wedding, establishing a budget and working within it is one of the most crucial aspects of planning a wedding. Here are some tips to keep you on task and on budget. (MS photo)

MS - Wedding planning is a unique experience unlike any endeavour most couples will ever encounter. Much effort goes into planning a wedding, and that includes building a budget that ensures the big day will be fun without breaking the bank. Most couples planning a wedding have never tied the knot before, so it can be difficult to determine a reasonable amount to spend. It’s easy to go overboard when planning a wedding, and couples may find their list of wants and, consequently, their expenses, growing as they get into the weeds of wedding planning. Though it might require some difficult decisions, couples can keep these tips in mind so they can build a wedding budget that won’t land them in debt after saying, “I do”.

• Determine funding: The days when a bride’s parents would finance the wedding entirely on their own are largely a thing of the past. According to a recent WeddingWire Newlywed Report , parents now pay for 52 per cent of wedding expenses. As couples begin establishing a wedding budget, it’s imperative that they first determine who, if anyone, will be helping them finance the big day. Fifty-two per cent of wedding expenses is a significant amount of money, but in that scenario, couples will still need to come up with roughly half of the money needed to fund their weddings. Couples without substantial savings may be forced to cut back in order to avoid beginning their life as a married couple in debt.

• Make a list of potential

Wedding tradition roots explained

Continued from page 13 feel that knives are symbolic of a broken relationship. That would likely come as a surprise to the many engaged couples who have a set of knives on their wedding registries.

• Carrying the bride over the threshold: Historians trace this tradition, which Hollywood has undoubtedly helped to keep alive, all the way back to medieval Europe. Also inspired by a bride’s perceived vulnerability to evil spirits, the tradition of a groom carrying his bride over the threshold into their new home was believed to keep the spirits from entering the home through the soles of the bride’s feet.

• Breaking glass: Couples break glass for different reasons on their wedding days. Within the Jewish faith, one member of the couple will stomp on a carefully wrapped glass to serve as a reminder of the destruction of the Jewish temples and to inspire reflection among those in attendance. Italian newlyweds also may smash glass, but they’ll do it with a little more

gusto. Local tradition in Italy dictated that, at the end of the wedding, the newly-married couple would smash a wine glass. Folklore suggests that the number of pieces the glass breaks into indicates how many years the couple will stay together.

Tradition is part and parcel of many weddings. Some traditions are more solemn than others, but all can add something meaningful, dramatic and even a little fun to the ceremony.

expenses: Location will be a significant factor when determining potential expenses. For example, a 2022 ValuePenguin analysis of data from The Wedding Report found that the average wedding in Massachusetts cost roughly $30,500 in 2020, while couples tying the knot in Arkansas spent around $12,500 on their weddings. With such wild fluctuations, it’s important that couples get an accurate estimate of how much it may cost them to get married in a given city. Couples who met in a city and still live in a city but grew up in a suburb might save a considerable sum by getting married in their hometowns. Compare and contrast prices in

locales you’re considering, and then build your budget accordingly. This can help you avoid sticker shock and going over budget. Notable expenses to budget include the venue, attire (i.e., wedding dress and tuxedo rental), hairstyle and makeup, entertainment, photography and transportation.

• Make a list of what’s most important: Most couples will have to compromise in order to avoid taking on debt to finance their weddings. An earnest discussion about what’s most important to each person can ensure you both get what you want. Each person can make a list of their priorities, ranking them from most important to least important. Once lists are shared, couples can see where their

priorities converge and where they diverge. Any items that rank low on each person’s list of priorities can be afforded less funding, while those that are high on each list can take up more of the budget, if necessary.

• Commit to a limit before spending a dime: Committing to a limit before spending a dime can help couples keep wedding costs more manageable. Once that number is defined, couples can then work within its parameters, which can make potentially difficult decisions a little easier by narrowing options at a time when options can seem endless.

A well-planned budget can be just what couples need to begin married life on strong financial footing.

Barten her own boss at Wilhelmina Bakery

By Scott Stephenson The Citizen

This past week, The Citizen sent an emissary to a sprawling farm in Londesborough, in search of the source of a photo of a perfect peach Bavarian pie that looked like it came straight out of a vintage cookbook. That source turned out to be Willeke Barten, professional pastry chef and proprietor of Wilhelmina Bakery.

The bakery is housed in an innocuous grey building, looking not at all out of place off the farm’s long dirt driveway. Step through the door, however, and you are transported to a veritable culinary Narnia - a gleaming, professional kitchen, populated with state-ofthe-art steel appliances, that any chef would be happy to call home.

“Hygiene is number one,” stated the baker - a sentiment echoed in her immaculate chef’s jacket - a spotless extension of the gleaming white walls surrounding her.

One of the ways her space is kept so clean is that it’s not open to the public. Barten bakes to order, and the customer picks their order up at a specified time outside. This not only keeps food waste down, it also makes sure your order is as fresh as possible. Sorry, you last-minute birthday cake scroungers - you’ll find no freezer-burned ice cream cakes in this establishment!

The upscale bakery’s farm setting, at first incongruous, quickly makes perfect sense. Farmers feed families, but so do mocha buttercream cakes. Some of the wheat grown on the Barten family farm is even processed at Hamilton’s P&H Milling - the very brand of flour that Barten favours in her pastries. “It’s actually really cool, and it works really well, so I’m not going to lie,” said the baker, laughing.

From humble speculoos cookies to haughty towers of macarons, spooky Black Forest Cake to dignified profiteroles, Barten crafts her own, technique-driven take on iconic desserts from all across Europe, and she comes by her

Rising to the challenge

chops honestly. A proud dual citizen of Canada and the Netherlands, Barten shows love for her homeland through her baking. She makes classic Dutch cakes like Dutch Classic Cake, as well as smaller pastries like Bosche Bollen,

boterkoek, and saucijzenbroodjes.

“I have the grandma-written recipes, those have been passed down to me. My Bavarians are my grandmother’s original recipe.”

(The secret backstory of the peach Bavarian revealed at last!) The

great distance to be here now. Barten got into the culinary arts in the typical fashion - she was cross-checked hard in ringette, suffered a traumatic brain injury and found herself sidelined for an extended recovery period. The concussion left her sensitive to light, but not to helping her mother out in the kitchen. It was there that Barten’s culinary dreams really began.

After deciding on baking as her true passion, she set her sights on Rijn Ijssel Vakschool Wageningena unique institution located in Wageningen, Netherlands. With a teaching staff of world-class chefs and bakers, the school emphasizes business experience as well as classic techniques. The academy boasts a hotel, catering company, restaurant and bakery, all staffed by students. There was only one obstacle - Barten, who immigrated to Canada from Holland when she was six years old, spoke mostly English, while the school’s intense three-year program was offered only in Dutch. Undaunted, Barten took the intake test, got accepted, and was on a plane to Holland faster than you can say “appel flappen”. The teachers there worked with her language barrier. “If I didn’t have the support of the staff, I don’t think I would have made it,” said the chef. Google Translate was also a key player in her success.

Brian E. Wightman

Londesborough-based chef Willeke Barten is the owner of Wilhelmina Bakery. Barten has spent years mastering various baking techniques after receiving elite level training in the Netherlands and Ottawa. Her culinary creations are available to order online and at several storefronts throughout the area. (Scott Stephenson photo) Chartered Professional Accountant

• Personal & Corporate Tax Accounting & Bookkeeping Agricultural Services Seaforth 519-527-1331

Email: brian@wightmancpa.ca

name of the bakery itself, Wilhelmina, is a name that’s been in the family for a long time. Her bakery may be nestled on the family farm, right where she grew up, but Barten has certainly travelled a

She also fell in love with the art of ice cream making during her studies in Wageningen, and, while it’s a big commitment, the ambitious baker is not ruling it out for the future of Huron County. “I would like to do ice cream… it’s a lot more sensitive!”

After conquering Europe, Barten was ready to tackle the relentless gauntlet that is Ottawa’s Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts Institute. “Ottawa was a lot more intense, more strict… if you fail twice, you’re never allowed in a Cordon Bleu anywhere else in the world, ever again,” she reminisced wistfully. After mastering myriad

Continued on page 19

Bakery builds on Barten’s stellar reputation

Continued from page 18 confections, Barten finished her time in Ottawa as valedictorian of her elite class.

She gained inspiration from travelling after graduating, touring pâtisseries in France, making unforgettable madeleines, even eventually being featured in the Belgian magazine Flair Belgie , before returning to her Ontario home to get down to the business of baking.

Her education’s focus on the business side of things is obvious in all aspects of Barten’s operation. The strategic decision to keep costs low by staying in Londesborough, getting a discount on a secondhand dough sheeter (essential to making Barten’s airy, layered croissants), only baking to order to cut down on food waste - all of these savvy moves allow her to splurge on more luxurious ingredients. Her strong social media presence is also key to her business plan. “Social media is the whole business - the more I post, the more people see me… it’s the way I put myself out there.” Barten’s website and Instagram page are filled with her own photos of her cakes and pastries, each post another good reason to place an order.

One doesn’t have to make the trip to Londesborough to sample Barten’s wares. You can find her croissants at Greyhaven Gardens on Saturdays, along with coffee and fountains that look like frogs. She’s also experimented with selling her wares at the Seaforth Farmers’ Market, and also has items available in Eat Local Huron’s online store. If you’ve had dessert

at Cowbell or The Blyth Inn, gotten an ice cream sandwich in Lucan, or grabbed a pastry at the funky Cafe Loco in Clinton, you were probably eating something from Wilhelmina Bakery. You can also pop into Penny’s in downtown Blyth and pick up some of Wilhelmina Bakery’s frozen, bake-at-home croissants if you’d like to impress your friends or fool your spouse into thinking you have world-class baking skills!

Whether frying a mountain of Oliebollen for New Year’s (order well in advance and pick them up at the bakery’s special Oliebollen window, of course!), making 800 cookies for an upcoming farm show, or getting up at 3 a.m. to proof croissants for her increasingly popular Croissant Saturdays, Barten always has something exciting going on. She’s in the process of training her first employee, and is soon going to add more bread options to her repertoire. Check out her online shop at wilhelminabakery.ca or follow her on Instagram to get your order started.

Chef Willeke Barten has built an international reputation as a highly skilled pastry chef.

(Scott Stephenson photo)

2

TAKE-OUT – HOME-COOKED

MEAL! Ham, mashed potatoes, corn and peas, dinner roll, $18. Add salad and dessert, $23. March 18, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Order by March 17. 519835-0099. Visit our store! Apples, fresh apple cider, cheese, preserves and much more. 23 Orchard Lane, Brussels. 09-2p

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GERBERS FIREWOOD SERVING you for over 15 years. Your number one source of quality slabwood and bodywood. Delivery available. No Sunday calls. 519-274-1236, 519441-2085. 01-50p

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REPRINTS OF PHOTOS

taken by Citizen photographers are available to purchase. All are in colour. 4x6 – $5.00, 5x7 – $6.00, 8x10 – $10.00. Phone to order 519523-4792 or 519-887-9114. tfn

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THE CITIZEN IS AVAILABLE TO purchase at these locations – Auburn Co-op, Auburn Esso, Belgrave Variety, Blyth Variety, Blyth Food Market, Blyth Ultramar, Brussels Foodland, Brussels Variety, Clinton Convenience, Clinton Foodland, Fogal’s YIG in Wingham, Wingham Mini Mart, Seaforth Foodland, GT Mini Mart in Seaforth, Fincher’s in Goderich, Goderich Victoria St. Shell and The Citizen Blyth.

COME AND GO 60TH ANNIVERSARY of Murray Lowe’s Barber Shop, Tuesday, March 14. Pop into the shop to share your best wishes or a story over cake and coffee. 09-1

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AUBURN AND DISTRICT LIONS

Club St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast at the Auburn Community Hall, Sunday, March 12, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Adults $12, Children $6, Preschool free. Maple syrup supplied by Robinson Maple Products. Eggs supplied by Huron County Egg Farmers. Proceeds for Community Betterment. We Serve. 09-1p

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WINGHAM COLUMBUS CENTRE’S

Famous Fish Fry is Friday, March 10 from noon to 6:30 p.m. We are offering Eat-In and Take-Out this month. Eat-In, $20 – Choice of battered or grilled white fish and a buffet of salads, potatoes and dinner rolls, also coffee and tea. Take-Out, $18 – Fish, potato, coleslaw and dinner roll. We also do chicken fingers for the “non” fish lover. Offering butter tarts $2, or homemade cheesecake and other desserts, $5 each. Kids are half price. Taxes are included. Call early to book your fish as we tend to sell out. 519-357-1270. 09-1

HALEY, Brian, April 17, 1957March 3, 2019. Time cannot steal the treasures, That we carry in our hearts. ’Nor ever dim the shining thoughts, Our cherished past imparts. For the memories of the ones we loved,

Still cast a gentle glow, To grace our days and light our paths, Wherever we may go.

– Missed by Mom and Paul. 09-1p

CUSTOM CLOVER SEEDING with GPS, $2.50.acre or $3 for pasture. Seed available. Call Kurt Beuerman 519-525-0538 or 519523-9234 (home). 09-9

• Free ad up to 25 words, person to person only (no businesses), items valued at $1,000 or less. Price must be included in your ad.Your ad will run three times unless it sells faster!

• The Citizen reserves the right to limit the number of items or ads per person.

-------------------------------------------INCOME TAX PREPARATION –farm, business, personal. Stephen Thompson, 519-482-3244. 07-10

MULTI-GENERATION FARM looking for land to rent or share crop long- or short-term agreements. Cover crops manure and good land stewardship. Competitive prices. Contact Mark Nesbit 519-524-2474 or John Nesbit 519-530-9595. 07-5p

Memories

Ron and Chris Stevenson recently reached out to local media outlets to mark what would have been their mother Bev Stevenson’s 70th birthday on Feb. 27, just a month shy of the one-year anniversary of her and her partner Darwin Ducharme’s sudden, tragic death. The family marked the occasion with a birthday topper on her headstone in her memory. (Courtesy photo)

CH completes risk assessment

Central Huron has become one of the first local municipalities to commission its community risk assessment, a measure that will be required of all municipalities by July 1 of next year.

Grace McDonough and Terry Gervais of Loomex presented their community risk assessment recently, which pertains only to the municipality’s fire service, assessing risks in the community related to fire suppression and outreach.

Of the risks presented, the municipality is only coming up short in regards to the dangers associated with a fire in the downtown core of Clinton.

Gervais told council that the municipality and the Central Huron Fire Department has not reached the appropriate level of service being delivered to mitigate the risk of a fire in Clinton’s downtown.

“The municipality/department has not conducted a consistent number of inspections in these types of buildings,” Gervais said in his report to council.

The risk treatment plan for the situation, he said, is to mitigate the risk by creating and implementing a fire prevention policy that includes a procedure for conducting public education and code enforcement

programs, while also pre-planning with the owners of the buildings in Clinton’s downtown core to help limit the damage that can result from fires and help firefighters plan for what they can expect to face under fire conditions at the aforementioned locations.

As for a fire in a residential occupancy, Gervais and his team found that the municipality is delivering the appropriate level of services. He said there is no evidence to suggest that expectations are not being met. However, a targeted public education initiative, including a smoke alarm program and fire escape planning, would help contribute to overall public safety.

He also said the municipality is meeting expectations in regards to road and highway emergencies, but suggested that, in order to mitigate further risk, the municipality could review the municipality’s roads for high-traffic or high-collision areas. Furthermore, he suggested that the authority that governs the local road network could conduct research and identify a solution that prevents incidents in high-traffic or highcollision areas.

The municipality is providing an appropriate level of service when it comes to a fire in a vulnerable

Knights, McDonalds return from trip

We have snow on the ground again. Not much, but hopefully there is more to come for the snowmobilers, hopefully gently, and not stormy. Let’s get some use out of those snowmobiles. It is only two weeks until March Break and kids need some snow. Well, Monday night put the word “gently” out of my first couple of lines. The bus drive Monday afternoon was terrible, the snow arriving as usual about 3 p.m. I was glad to get home and stay put for the night. At least maybe there will be more snow for snowmobiling!

The Lions Club held another successful breakfast on Sunday morning with a great crowd. It is wonderful to be able to be out and see people and catch up on the news.

We had a visit while sitting with Merv and Donna Bauer who have returned from a fantastic vacation cruise. They flew to Los Angeles to board the Norwegian Bliss and toured down the west coast of the U.S. and Mexico. They went through the Panama Canal and were very impressed. They hadbeen through the old canal and now they have been through the new canal passage. Fantastic! They travelled to Florida and then a few days later boarded the ship again and cruised the Gulf of Mexico. They were to stop and see some ports, but the cruise company felt it was unsafe because of the violence in Mexico. High winds also stopped them from stopping at one port. All in all, they were very impressed with the ship, the entertainment, the lounges, the food and the atmosphere they enjoyed.

I see I made “The Kansas Farmer” this week. I ran into Paul in the grocery store and we were talking about writing for the paper. The gist of my conversation was that sometimes news is hard to come by. I am in a vehicle six hours a day driving, not speaking to anyone, which makes it hard to keep up with folks and what they are doing, if they do not call and tell me.

My take on my column is not that I make fun of anyone, maybe the odd time, but to congratulate people on successful moments in life, or promote great times or maybe a sad time, activities or other parts of the world, or sometimes what a small world it can be.

I will disagree with Paul on the comment that “nobody reads The Citizen anyway”. The Citizen is a widely-read paper and there are people that get the paper all across this country. Many times, I am told they look forward to reading my column, keeping them up with the folks of Brussels and the wider area sometimes.

I enjoy reading Paul’s column and hope he continues and people take his dry wit with an open mind and not with any offence. So come on folks, call me with your news and don’t avoid talking to Paul if

you meet him on the street!

We saw Joe Hallahan at the Lions breakfast and was surprised to see him in a wheelchair with a cast on his leg. A conversation enlightened and he told me he had slipped and fell and broke his leg a couple of weeks ago. He had surgery on Thursday, Feb. 23 and will be off his leg for eight weeks. He cannot put weight on his leg until then. I am sure visits and maybe treats would be welcome. Give him a call, a friendly phone call can bring a much-needed break to an otherwise long, boring day!

Southern holidays for many folk are part of their lives again. The COVID -19 pandemic put a stop to those who love to travel, but many feel it is safer now and they are off. Welcome home to Brad and Christine Knight and Jim and Linda McDonald who spent a week in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. They report a great time with great food and great friends. Celebrating birthdays this past

week include Carly Terpstra, Terry Nichol, Andrew Black, Drew Wilts, and our Feb. 29 babies who don’t have a day this year includes Nathan Bachert, Ryan Baan and Pam McLellan. March starts with Stacey Linton Courtney, Emmett Houston, Jeffrey Huether, Holly Ryan, Adam and Owen Ryan, Wren Williams, Megan den Dekker, Kathy Ryan and Ava Sutcliffe. Happy birthday to all!

occupancy, Gervais said, but suggested that the municipality continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that such occupancies comply with the Fire Protection and Prevention Act.

Gervais also told council that the municipality is providing an appropriate level of service in regards to a fire or explosion in an industrial occupancy. However, he noted that the fire department is not conducting consistent inspections in the aforementioned buildings.

To mitigate that risk, he said, the municipality should create a fire prevention policy that includes procedures for conducting inspections and providing public education, in addition to preplanning for high-risk industrial sites to help to potentially limit damage that could result from fires and help firefighters plan for what they can expect to face under fire conditions at the aforementioned locations.

Looking ahead, Gervais told council that the next steps should be to review the risks identified by the assessment and adopt risk treatment strategies.

Playoffs continue for Blyth Brussels Crusaders

Finding the back of the net

On Sunday, the U11 Rep Blyth Brussels Crusaders were in playoff action against the MidHuron Huskies and while the team was able to put two goals past the Mid-Huron goaltender, one of which is being celebrated above, the team unfortunately ended up on the wrong end of a 4-2 score that evening at the Blyth arena. (John Stephenson photo)

UCW to host Londesborough

World Day of Prayer service

The Londesborough United Church Women held its February meeting on Family Day, Feb. 20. A good number of ladies were in attendance that evening and enjoyed cupcakes with their coffee to begin the gathering.

February is the “love” month. Group 4 – Mary Ann Drost, Ann Adams, Catherine Allen and Kim Roetsicoender was in charge of the program and they began the time of devotion with a scripture passage from Matthew that charged everyone to “love one another”.

Familiar words from Jesus. But they emphasized that we must also love ourselves. By being confident about our own selves, we can then be loving of others.

Love of self, they stated, helps us retrain our personality to always say something positive, rather than negative, to be sincere in our conversations and sow kindness in the world. A fun game reinforced the idea for everyone that they are worthy of love.

President Catherine Allen led the short business part of the evening. Barb Bosman will arrange for the church pianos to be tuned. The UCW will cater to the Londesborough Masonic Lodge’s final banquet on Saturday, March 18. Financial assistance for young folk attending a church-oriented summer camp in 2023 is available by contacting Catherine.

Ladies present that evening were asked to consider plans for a summer event and a church work bee before the next meeting on March 20. That meeting will be Londesborough’s observance

of the World Day of Prayer.

Londesborough United Church held its annual meeting for 2022 on Tuesday, Feb. 21. At that meeting, following a great deal of discussion, the time for Sunday services was changed to 10:30 a.m. beginning on March 5.

Two young boys took their first step, figuratively, in their Christian faith journey on Sunday, Feb. 26 at Londesborough United Church.

Xavier Mark Antonie, son of Tyler and Keira Mitchell, and Casey Brian, son of Eric and Halee Radford, received the Sacrament of Baptism that morning from Rev. Jan Aylward. Proud family members joined the usual congregants to witness this initiation into God’s church.

Londesborough United also welcomed five persons by transfer of membership, Marinus and Margaret Bakker, Grace Cartwright and Heilke and Teresa Roetcisoender. Assisting Rev. Aylward with the service was Brenda Radford.

Making this service even more special was a piano and violin duet by Barb Bosman and Marsha Szusz. They played “Ashokan Farewell”.

Continued from page 10 Blyth on Feb. 26 by a score of 2-1. They played the Listowel Cyclones on the road on March 1, but a score was unavailable at press time. They then host the MidHuron Huskies on March 3 in Brussels, followed by a home-andhome series with the South Bruce Blades White team on March 5 in Blyth and in Teeswater on March 6.

The U11 Local League Burgundy team has lost all five of its playoff games thus far, falling to the MidHuron Huskies on Feb. 12 by a score of 6-2 in Blyth, the Central Perth Predators on the road on Feb. 15 by a score of 4-2, the Wingham Ironmen Blue team in Wingham on Feb. 18 by a score of 2-1, the Zurich Thunder in Brussels on Feb. 24 by a score of 6-3 and the Wingham Ironmen Blue team again in Blyth on Feb. 26 by a score of 40.

The team took on the Mid-Huron Huskies on Feb. 27 in Seaforth, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The Crusaders are next in action on March 5 in Blyth against the Central Perth Predators and then again on March 6 in Zurich for a game with the Thunder.

The U13 Rep team lost its Feb. 25 playoff game in Drayton by a score of 4-0 to the Defenders, which came after a Feb. 21 overtime loss to the Minto Mad Dogs by a score of 5-4.

Although this piece of music originated in the American south it was reminiscent of Canadian Maritime music.

Rev. Aylward’s message was based on two scripture passages that Lenten Sunday, Gen. 2:15-17 and 3:1-7 and Matt. 4:1-11. The Genesis passage was the temptation of Moses on the mountain and the Matthew passage was the temptation of Jesus in the desert. Jan reminded those in the pews that morning that although it can be very tempting to choose “the easy way out” of situations, that is not God’s way.

The team’s next playoff game was played on March 1 against the Drayton Defenders in Blyth, but a score was unavailable at press time. They then play the Wingham Ironmen in Brussels on March 4 and the Kincardine Kinucks on the road on March 9.

The U13 Local League team was last in action when they tied the Walkerton Capitals 4-4 in Blyth on  Feb. 22, which followed wins over the Mid-Huron Huskies (6-2 in Brussels on Feb. 18) and the Goderich Sailors (5-1 on Feb. 15 in Blyth). The team played the Minto Mad Dogs on March 1, but a score was unavailable at press time.

The Crusaders then play the Goderich Sailors again in Goderich on March 3, followed by a homeand-home series with the Wingham Ironmen on March 5 in Wingham and March 8 in Blyth.

The U15 Local League Crusaders lost their Feb. 23 playoff game with the Ironmen in Wingham by a score of 6-1. They then played the MidHuron Huskies in Brussels on Feb. 25 and the Mount Forest Rams in Blyth on Feb. 27, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

They are next in action on March 4 against the Mid-Huron Huskies in Brussels, followed by two games with the Wingham Ironmen (March 6 in Blyth and March 9 in Wingham) and then a March 11 game with the Mount Forest Rams on the road.

The U18 Rep team has been on a three-game losing streak in its playoff quest after a 4-0 win over the Hanover Falcons on Feb. 9. They then lost to the AEMHA Ice Dogs in Brussels on Feb. 14 by a score of 4-1, the Hanover Falcons on Feb. 21 in Brussels by a score of 7-3 and the AEMHA Ice Dogs on Feb. 26 by a score of 4-2.

The Crusaders play the AEMHA Ice Dogs in Chesley on March 5 and then the Hanover Falcons again on March 6 in Blyth.

The U18 Local League team has just begun its playoff journey, posting a 2-1 loss to the Arthur Vipers on the road on Feb. 24. The team has since been in action on Feb. 27 against the Vipers again in Blyth and Feb. 28 against the Walkerton Capitals on the road. Scores for both games were unavailable at press time. They take on the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth on March 4 and the Walkerton Capitals on March 7 and the Mitchell Meteors on March 8, both in Brussels. The team then hits the road to play the Meteors again in Mitchell on March 12 and the Mid-Huron Huskies on March 17 in Brussels.

The U21 Crusaders have posted

Brussels Livestock report

Total receipts for Brussels Livestock for the week ending Feb. 24 were 1,370 cattle and 196 lambs and goats.

On Tuesday, fed steers and heifers sold actively on a fully steady market; choice steers and heifers sold $192 to $204; secondcut cattle, $182 to $191; aged and medium-fed steers and heifers, $165 to $175; holstein steers and heifers, $130 to $175 and cows sold steady.

On Thursday, veal sold steady. Lambs sold steady to higher and sheep and goats sold steady.

On Friday, calves sold $3 to $5 higher on a very strong trade. Yearlings sold steady to last week’s high market.

George Hinz of Monkton, consigned six head. One charolais heifer weighed 1,380 lbs. and sold for a price of $203.

Mike Schnurr of Walkerton, consigned six head. One black steer

weighed 1,515 lbs. and sold for a price of $201.

There were 250 cows on offer.

Beef sold $100 to $137; good holstein cows, $98 to $127; medium holstein cows, $80 to $95.

Bulls sold $115 to $149.

There were 125 head of veal on offer. Beef veal sold $201 to $240; good holsteins, $205 to $216; SL heavy holsteins, $195 to $210; heavy holsteins, $165 to $188; medium holsteins, $195 to $204; plain holsteins, $180 to $194.

Bennewies Livestock Inc. of Bornholm, consigned four head. One holstein steer weighed 740 lbs. and sold for a price of $216.

Grant Bergsma of Londesborough, consigned two head. One holstein steer weighed 735 lbs. and sold for a price of $216.

Reuben S. Martin of Wallenstein, consigned five head. One black heifer weighed 1,025 lbs. and sold

for a price of $240.

Lambs under 50 lbs. sold $297.50 to $300; 50 - 64 lbs., $340 to $340; 65 - 79 lbs., $329 to $334; 80 - 94 lbs., $278 to $305; 95 - 109 lbs., $231.50 to $244; 110 lbs. and over, $214 to $231.

Goats: billies sold $150 to $400; nannies, $100 to $200; kids: meat, $330 to $440; dairy, $250 to $400.

Glen Voisin of Formosa, consigned 12 head. Five lambs averaged 79 lbs. and sold for an average price of $330.

Anthony Derijk of Clinton, consigned 16 head.  Five lambs averaged 79 lbs. and sold for an average price of $330.

Top quality stocker steers, 400499 lbs. sold $315 to $322.50; 500599 lbs., $308 to $349; 600 - 699 lbs., $308.25 to $325; 700 - 799 lbs., $294.50 to $304; 800 - 899 lbs., $279.50 to $291; 900 - 999 lbs., $265 to $275.75; 1,000 lbs. and over, $252 to $263.

Fed steers, heifers sell actively on steady market

Top quality stocker heifers, 500599 lbs. sold $245.50 to $268; 600699 lbs., $260.75 to $267; 700 - 799 lbs., $275.50 to $292.50; 800 - 899 lbs., $245 to $252.50; 900 lbs. and over, $218 to $252.50.

Nevin Bender of Woodmore, Manitoba, consigned 73 head. Twenty gold heifers averaged 780 lbs. and sold for an average price of $284.50.

Phares Brubacher of Lucknow,

consigned 20 head. Six charolais heifers averaged 905 lbs. and sold for an average price of $252.50.

Stewart Farms of Douglas, consigned 74 head. Seventeen gold steers averaged 838 lbs. and sold for an average price of $291.

Dan Hoggart of Londesborough, consigned 32 head. Ten red steers averaged 781 lbs. and sold for an average price of  $291.

By Ethan Wallace, Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

On the right foot

The United Way Perth-Huron held its annual Coldest Night of the Year walk fundraiser over the weekend, with events across the country. In Wingham, the dozens in attendance were aiming to raise money for the new North Huron Connection Centre. Huron-Bruce MPP and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Lisa Thompson, centre, was on hand to make some comments before everyone pounded the pavement. She is seen above alongside the United Way’s Ryan Erb, left, and Julie B of 101.7 The One. (John Stephenson photo)

OFA calls for govt. investment

By Peggy Brekveld, President, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

It’s that time of year again when many of us turn our attention to numbers and columns. For the Ontario government, it means turning its focus to the next provincial budget. As part of that process, the government holds consultations to find out what Ontarians feel is important and to

get input into where and how different groups and sectors of the economy think budget funding should be allocated.

As President of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), I had the chance to give a presentation to the finance and economic affairs committee earlier this month on behalf of the 38,000 farm businesses our organization represents across this province.

There’s no denying that our sector is an economic powerhouse. We produce more than 200 different farm, food and floral products, generate nearly 750,000 jobs, and contribute more than $47 billion annually to the provincial economy. The vast majority of this activity happens in rural areas of the province, which gives us some unique

A statistic that is often used in relation to our agriculture sector is the fact that Canada’s farmers are getting older, with the average age nation-wide being 56. That means a lot of farm businesses will be changing hands in the next 10 to 15 years as older farmers retire.

At the same time, we know from Census of Agriculture data and from surveys that the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) has done that the majority of farm businesses don’t have a written succession or transition plan for their farm.

The results of this survey, and many conversations with OFA members across the province, indicate to us that there is both a willingness, and a need, for farm families to have these oftenchallenging conversations around the future of their farm businesses.

I know from first-hand experience how incredibly important it is to give careful thought and planning to the future of a family farm business. My wife and I and our children are dairy farmers near Seaforth in Huron County. We’re on a farm that we were lucky enough to be able to take over from my parents and I know that without a succession plan and their willingness to use their equity in the business to support us, it simply wouldn’t have been possible for us financially to follow our dream of farming.

There are many aspects to succession planning, from making sure family members are involved and consulted to properly addressing legal, financial and tax implications, so, getting the help of outside experts, like a lawyer and an accountant, is an important part of the process.

It can seem very daunting when you first look at it on your own, but I know from my own experience that when you’re working with professionals who are experienced in transition and know what needs to happen, it is not that difficult a process. It can be hard to know where to get started, though, and that’s why the OFA has partnered with Farm

Life Financial through its member benefit program to make succession planning support more accessible to our members.

This includes preferred rates on their succession planning services, as well as a complimentary on-farm consultation, access to a regional workshop and an annual check-in for the first two years once a transition plan has been completed.

This winter, we’ve worked together with Farm Life to prepare and deliver a series of farm transition planning workshops for OFA members across Ontario. The Farm Life team brings specific and extensive expertise and experience in farm transition and financial planning and these workshops are an easy, no-obligation way to become introduced to the topic.

These sessions have focused on tax advantages and reaching the goals of both generations while maintaining family harmony. That’s not always easy to achieve, and it was something that was very important to all of us in my own family as we were going through this process.

Approximately 260 people have participated in our in-person sessions to date and over 300 enrolled for an online workshop held on March 1. There is also a recorded webinar available on the OFA website at https://ofa.on.ca/benefit/farm-life/ for farmers who wish to learn a bit more about succession planning on their own.

From the Minister’s Study

With God, we don’t bear burdens alone: Jebson

By Rev. Alex Jebson

Blyth and Brussels United Churches

Friends, we have arrived at the Season of Lent. Lasting 40 days (not counting Sundays) until Easter, this Lent might feel like it hit us with the grace and style of a boulder plopping into a pond. But, in many ways, this season of Lent is extremely fitting for our times. The term Lent could have its origins in a few different places – the first, from the Old English “lencten”, which refers to the lengthening days of spring. Even if we’re still experiencing the odd cold snap, we are assured that spring is coming, slowly but surely.

Yet, more importantly, it could also derive from the French term “lente”, meaning “slowly”. In this season, when we are called to focus on our part in our relationship with God and all that God loves, we ought to take a slower and more intentional approach. And, given the state of the world and the strain that three years of the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked on our communities, we’re probably going a bit slower and feeling quite weighed down anyways. I certainly feel that way sometimes; almost like walking around with a backpack filled with stones.

In this season of facing the hard truths and unloading the stones that weigh us down, we are presented with the narrative of the Temptation of Jesus (Luke 4:1-13). It comes every year in the church lectionary, seemingly carved into stone. And for good reason! We are constantly weighed down by temptations and actions that go against the ways of our loving and gracious God; some are obvious to us, the parts of ourselves that are stony and cold. Meanwhile, others are so ingrained in our societies and economies, we have no idea we partake in them, or just how much they weigh us down.

To reflect on this faith narrative at the start of Lent helps us to faithfully name these heavy temptations, and just how tempting they are. I don’t know of many preachers who would quote the Queen of Bawdiness herself, Mae West, but she got it right when she said, “I generally avoid temptation unless I can’t resist it,” as well as, “Between two evils, I always pick the one I haven’t tried before.” What can I say? Every minister should quote Mae West once in a while!

But we can be assured of our faithful reflection of these temptations with God, because in

Christ, the Holy One faced the same temptations that taunt us to this very day. Real heavy ones, too. Jesus wasn’t just trying to find a way to work a SlimFast diet into his ministry. The temptations we find in this faith narrative rock the very core of our relationship with God. The first temptation sees the Tempter try to taunt Jesus into turning the rock he had been using as a pillow in this wilderness cavern into bread – no word on the type of bread, but I bet a nice brioche would have hit the spot. But this temptation of Jesus isn’t (just) trying to warn us off carbs. What the Tempter tried to encourage in Jesus, and in all of us, is to think of ourselves as fully beyond the need

for God, to be self-sufficient and self-serving.

This isn’t the reality of our relationship with God or with one another, but time and time again we are tempted to think as such. For a people who had been freed from slavery and fed manna in the wilderness, they risked thinking themselves alone, and failed to offer bread to others in need. We are often weighed down by this ourselves. In a society that prizes going at it alone and getting ahead of the pack, we fail to recognize our need for God and one another. While tempting to think that we can rely on only ourselves, when that delusion finally comes crashing down, the weight can feel all the

more unbearable, because we have cut off or abused our ties with those who could help support us, and struggle to understand how to reach out to God.

The second temptation is all the power and wealth and dominions of the world, if only Jesus would worship the Tempter. This one would certainly appeal to those to whom Jesus ministered – having been a pebble in the midst of mountainous empires for centuries, the people of Israel would have

loved to return to grandeur once again. In fact, that is what many people expected Jesus to be as Messiah: a great conqueror. They wanted to take things into their own hands, rather than rely on the God who is the true sustainer. Few of us would turn down the tempting, yet ill-gotten chance to have a bit of power, or to have what our well-off neighbours and strangers possess. It would seem like such a boon would have us

The Regional Ministry of Hope

NORTHERN HURON-PERTH CATHOLIC FAMILY OF PARISHES

All are welcome to visit or join with us, and to become disciples of Jesus, sharing in Christ’s mission.

See a greater way of living, loving: Jebson

Continued from page 24 riding high, but, in reality, it weighs us down further and strains our relationship with God; the weariness of constant comparison with one another and the urge for uniformity. As well, the temptation comes with the risk of abusing power and privilege, weighing others down more so you feel more secure. There’s plenty of that in our lives and in the world, whether we intend it or not.

The third and final temptation has the Tempter try to get Jesus to jump off the highest tower in the Temple in Jerusalem, since God would surely break his fall. There is assurance in the sustaining care that God provides – such a steadfast love, that even the Tempter speaks of it in their attempt to sway Jesus. But to trust and to test are two different things. As Old Testament Scholar James D. Newsome puts it, “God’s all-encompassing care is not a commodity to be gained by human beings through wheedling; it is, instead, a promise that no one ventures outside the realm of God’s care.”

If we are tempted to be flippant with the love and care of God, we won’t truly appreciate it. We also run the risk of devaluing the love and care that God calls us to offer one another. I think it’s safe to say in the past two years, we have seen plenty of people tempted to test God’s care and forsaking common sense and our responsibility to the most vulnerable in our world.

Certainly there is a lot here to feel even more weighed down. It must seem like at times we can’t do anything right; that the temptations of selfishness and insecurity sit like a boulder on our chest. How all the more marvelous, then, that we are not doomed to be forever weighed down by them. The God who faced such temptations in Christ is the God who offers us a sheltering wing and transformative grace to counter these temptations, and an unbelievable amount of compassion and forgiveness when we do stumble in the stones.

In Jesus’ temptation narrative, the thing that keeps Jesus on the right path and opposing the ways of nonlovingkindness is an assurance of relationship with God and with others. If we take the time to consider slowly and deeply just how interrelated and beloved each and every one of us is, the more we can see the flashy temptations for the weights and sins that they truly are. We also recognize that God finds us worthy of care and compassion – in not being alone or on top of the food chain, we are assured that we are not rejected.

Instead, we are tempted by an irresistible grace, offered by a mothering and nurturing God beyond compare. We hear it in the well-loved refrain of Psalm 91:

“And I will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of my

hand.” A care and love that sustains us in the wildest wilderness and our weakest moments and times of hurt is one that wanders with us amongst the stones and situations that most need God in our lives.

Our slow Lenten journey is with God. This is the reality of our lives and our lesson for today. It’s one we theoretically know by heart: we pray every time, “… and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” But sometimes we need a reminder when the world and our lives come tumbling down like a rockslide.

This assurance of God’s care and help in warding off temptation isn’t some magic spell or ticket for an easy ride. Indeed, it was the Holy Spirit that drove Jesus to the wilderness in the first place. And, spoiler alert, this Lenten journey is going to get heavier as we get closer to Holy Week. What it does mean is that we can have full trust in God in the rocky places as well as the times of flying high. And it means that we have a faithful call in the One who opposed these temptations to help lighten the loads of others, to extend our hands and hearts in loving care with the strength and grace of eagle’s wings.

So, on this Lenten journey, it’s alright to take it slow. It’ll give you a chance to reflect and honestly name which stones weigh us down and which things strain our relationship with God and one another. Like countless generations past and present, draw from our

faith narrative for reminders of God’s compassion and care for us, and how God wants us to relate to God and one another. See where others have been weighed down, and how God helped them unload and take flight in faith.

In our rock-solid God, and in the

sharing and caring in community, we don’t bear the burdens alone. We see a way of living and loving that is far greater than any bread, kingdom or trust fall can offer. Etch this in your hearts, folks, and let’s rock and roll! Thanks be to God. Amen.

… in my merry Oldsmobile. This ditty of 1905 vintage tells of the novelty of the automobile that was sweeping North America in that era.

Many inventors and innovators are credited with making advances in creating a truly “auto-powered” vehicle, but Karl Benz of Germany was the first person to take out a patent, in 1886, for a “vehicle powered by a gas engine”.

According to Mary Milne, daughter of Dr. Milne in Blyth, John B. Kelly (J. B.) was quite ahead of his time. He was very mechanically minded as he had installed the first electric plant in Blyth using steam from the flour mill of his father, Patrick Kelly.

J. B. built an automobile in 1883 which used steam and coal oil for fuel. It had two seats and steering was done with a lever. He had obtained a boiler from Hamilton, a second-hand engine in Fergus and four wheels from Galt (artillery wheels with metal hubs and wooden spokes and tires made of iron). He didn’t need a horn!

The boiler was at the back under the seat and the engine was at the front and it used a chain drive. For some reason, J. B. did not take out a patent. Unfortunately, this contraption frightened horses and people, so he took it apart. He put the boiler and the engine in the elevator at the flour mill and used the rig to deliver flour and feed.

The first person in Huron County to buy an automobile was Mr. J. P. Tisdale, a banker in Clinton, in June of 1901. It was called a Locosurrey, and weighed 1,020 pounds. The cost

was $1,200 (over $32,000 in 2023 money). The Locosurrey, from Bridgeport, Connecticut, was a twoseater that was steam-powered, had pneumatic tires and could reach speeds of 40 miles per hour, but only under the best road conditions.

A few years later, in 1904, Alexander M. Crawford, who owned a tobacco shop and pool hall, was the first person in Wingham, and second in Huron County, to buy a car: an Oldsmobile. Later, he became the “local and district agent for the Ford Motor Company” and ordered several cars because “he had people lined up to buy them”. His first dealership was on the corner of Edward and John Streets, but he later relocated to the corner of Patrick and Josephine Streets.

And what would a car dealership be without a salesman? William Logan of Blyth was among the first car salesmen in Huron County.

Following along with the trend, in 1906, a Blyth citizen entered into automobile ownership in the person of Isaac Brown, the owner of the apple evaporating plant there. In May of that same year, the Exeter Advance editor felt it was newsworthy to mention that the first automobile of the year had passed through that town (and that no horse runaways had been reported). This is likely because of the scarcity of automobiles at that time in history as well as the fact that early automobiles were not suited for Huron County winters. It would be a few more decades before the highways and byways would be maintained for winter travel.

In July of 1910, eight people from Toronto were completing an Ontario tour when their large vehicle flipped near Blyth, trapping all the occupants in it. They were able to crawl out, even though they had been soaked with gasoline. These tourists had their minor injuries attended to by Dr. Milne and then stayed overnight at the Commercial Hotel before returning home by train. The cause of the mishap was attributed to a ridge of gravel in the middle of the road and to excessive speed. Although several local farmers were asked to pull the wreck out of the ditch, all refused, citing their distaste for automobiles and also wishing the same fate to all such vehicles.

Keeping early automobiles running could be challenging. At first, gasoline was stored in drums and would have to be transferred into cars manually. Gradually, gasoline pumps came into use, but the first ones only dispensed a gallon at a time and were not available in all municipalities. The early drivers had to carry their own supply, as well as tools to keep their rides in commission. Perhaps this is comparable to the 2020s, when drivers of electric cars need to map out the location of chargers before they set out on a trip.

With automobile ownership increasing, a local auto club was formed by 1911 for social reasons and also to lobby for better roads. At that time, the cost of a car licence was $2. This licence was a piece of heavy rubber with large white numerals painted on it. The usual

speed limit was 20 miles per hour and 10 miles per hour when going through an intersection.

Another indicator of the popularity of these conveyances was the advent of the automobile show and in 1913, The Blyth Standard reported that R. M. McKay, Wm. Johnston, E. G. McTaggart, B. Bainton, W Logan, I. Brown, W. Moore, Dr. McTaggart and Dr. Milne were off to Toronto to the automobile show there.

An enterprising fellow in Brussels by the name of Cleve Denbow was

offering an automobile for hire in 1915.

It was common for folks of all ages to be attracted to the novelty of the “horseless carriages”. Mary Ames of Brussels was not one of the first to own a car, but, by 1918, she celebrated her 90th birthday by having her first automobile ride, courtesy of Jno. McDonald. It is quite difficult for us to imagine a world without automobiles: likely, our forebears found it very difficult to imagine a world with them.

Next Coffee Break set for March 28

By Linda Campbell

Susan Barnett was the guest speaker on Sunday, Feb. 26 (Lent 1) at Knox United Church, Belgrave. After the congregation was welcomed, the call to worship was read responsively, followed by the lighting of the Christ candle.

Susan’s message was about temptation. Jesus was tempted many times in his lifetime. He was tempted in the desert to run stone into bread, in the city to jump off the tower so he could have his Lord save him and on the top of the mountain to look at the land he could control. Jesus rejected all temptations by the devil and confessed his love to God. Today, many people in the world are tempted to do bad things for a better and more prosperous life. Jesus said, do the right thing and you shall be rewarded by the holy spirit.

After the church service,

everyone adjourned downstairs for lunch and the annual meeting. On Sunday, March 5, Jim Hess will be the guest speaker. Everyone is welcome.

There were 20 people at the Community Coffee Break on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the Belgrave Community Centre. Fellowship, coffee and snacks were enjoyed. The next coffee break will be on March 28 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Everyone is welcome.

The Blyth Repository of History held its first information meeting last Thursday night at the Bainton Gallery in Memorial Hall ahead of producing a new Blyth history book. Nearly 20 people were in attendance to seek more information and perhaps lend their talents to the project, which will aim to pick up where the last history book left off. (Deb Sholdice photo)

U13 Crusader teams head to Young Canada Week

On the break

On Sunday afternoon, the U11 Local League Black Blyth Brussels Crusaders took the the Blyth and District Community Centre ice for a playoff game with the Mitchell Meteors, their neighbours to the east. Unfortunately for the Crusaders, they ended up losing the game by a score of 2-1. (John Stephenson photo)

Continued from page 22 one win and four losses in their playoff run.

They lost by a score of 3-2 to the Walkerton Capitals on Feb. 25 in Blyth, which came after a win over the Capitals in Walkerton on Feb. 19 by a score of 4-2. They lost to the Shallow Lake Lakers by a score of 5-3 on the road on Feb. 18, the Hanover Falcons by a score of 6-1 on Feb. 17 in Brussels and by a score of 6-2 to the Hanover Falcons on the road on Feb. 11.

Continued from page 23 perspectives, opportunities and challenges.

In fact, this past fall, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, announced the Grow Ontario Strategy where she challenged our sector to increase the production, consumption and manufacturing of Ontario food as well as boost our annual agri-food exports.

The agri-food industry is a major asset to Ontario and it’s one that can be maximized with strategic investment – in other words, we’re up to the challenge, but support from the provincial government is needed in some very key areas to help us get there. One of those key areas is physical and social infrastructure, a perennial budget topic.

In rural Ontario, the greatest needs are investments to maintain rural roads, bridges and drainage systems, expanding reliable and affordable broadband internet, upgrading and improving the rural energy grid to enable access to affordable energy, and expanding social infrastructure like local schools and health care. All of these are essential to attracting and keeping people and businesses in rural communities.

We appreciate the provincial government’s commitment to 100 per cent internet coverage in Ontario by 2025, and the ongoing investments that are being made to reach this goal. We also encourage the government to continue its expansion of natural gas lines in rural, northern and remote communities across Ontario to ensure all residents have access to affordable and reliable energy.

One of the greatest investments made this past year by government is the Farmer Wellness Initiative, a

The team next takes on the Shallow Lake Lakers in Brussels on March 3, followed by a game with the Hanover Falcons on the road on March 4, a home game in Blyth with the Walkerton Capitals on March 11 and a road game with the Shallow Lake Lakers on March 12. In regular season action, the U9 team played the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth on Feb. 26, but lost by a score of 6-1. The U6 team took on the Thunder in Zurich and the U8 Black and Burgundy teams

took on two Kincardine Kinuck teams in Blyth, but scores for those games were unavailable at press time.

On Feb. 25, the U7 Black team played the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth, the U6 team played the Wallace Sabres in Blyth and the U7 Burgundy team travelled to Wallace Township for a game with the Sabres, but scores were not kept for those games. The U9 team suffered a 5-4 overtime loss at the hands of the Zurich Thunder in Brussels.

mental health support program designed specifically for farmers and their families that is making a positive difference for those in need. This is an investment we would like to see continue, and we believe that it would benefit all to expand it to farm employees as well.

Beyond that, we recommend a continued robust strategy to tackle human resource issues in health care. This means leveraging technology and health innovations, supporting the next generation of health care professionals and continuing to address immediate workforce shortages, including through innovative scope of practice and patient care approaches.

One of the greatest problems facing agriculture right now is the critical shortage of veterinarians –particularly those who specialize in large animals – in rural and northern Ontario. The provincial government has already made some positive investments to address the issue and we encourage continued

On Feb. 18, the U7 Black team took on the Hornets in Howick, the U7 Burgundy team hosted the MidHuron Huskies in Blyth and the U6 team hosted the Wallace Sabres in Blyth, but scores were not kept for those games.

The U9 team hosted the Goderich Sailors Black T2 team in Brussels and won by a score of 7-1.

The U8 Black and Burgundy teams played two Mitchell Meteor teams in Mitchell, but scores were not kept for those games.

The U9 team was in Goderich on Feb. 28 for a game with the Goderich Sailors White T1 team, but a score was unavailable at press time.

Looking ahead in Blyth Brussels regular season action, on March 4, the U7 Burgundy team will take on Central Perth on the road, while the U8 Black team will host the Listowel Cyclones in Brussels and the U7 Black team will play Central Perth in Brussels. The U6 team will play the Mitchell Meteors on the road and the U9 team will play the Goderich Sailors White T1 team in Blyth.

On March 5, the U8 Burgundy team will play the Howick Hornets in Blyth and on March 10, the U13 Local League and U13 Rep teams will take part in Goderich’s annual Young Canada Week. The Local League team will play the Wingham Ironmen that day, while the Rep team will play Central Perth.

Also that day, the U9 team will play the Zurich Thunder on the road.

support for the Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in Rural and Northern Community Practice Program, the Livestock Veterinary Innovation Initiative, and the Veterinary Assistance Program. Financial incentives for veterinary students and practitioners to practice in rural and remote areas and financial support for clinics would also be of value and help make a difference.

As well, the agri-food sector currently faces unprecedented levels of risk and uncertainty, from inflation and trade and supply chain disruptions to pandemic-related challenges and extreme weather events. The Risk Management Program is a shared premium insurance program between government and industry .Increasing the annual investment from $150 million to $250 million would help manage that risk, strengthen food security and support growth in the sector.

And finally, not every way to support the sector involves new spending by government.

On Saturday, March 11, the U13 Local League Crusaders will play the Aylmer Flames Red team and the TCDMHA Rebels in tournament action, while the U13 Rep team will play the Tillsonburg Lightning.

Also that day, the U6 team will play the Mid-Huron Huskies in Seaforth, the U8 Burgundy team will play the Listowel Cyclones in Brussels and the U7 Black and Burgundy teams will play two Wingham Ironmen teams in Brussels.

On Sunday, March 12, the U13 Rep Crusaders will play the East Lambton Eagles for Young Canada Week, while, also that day, the U8 Black team will play the Zurich Thunder in Blyth.

It’s great to see the government’s recognition of the economic benefits of increasing made-inOntario food consumption, and we see a lot of untapped potential in this area. A 10 per cent Ontariogrown-food procurement policy for government and the broader public sector wouldn’t increase the budget, but would add positive economic impact across the food chain.

Investments such as these will grow Ontario, while moving us towards “Farms and Food Forever”.

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