Creemore Echo - August 2023

The Creemore ECHO

Speeds lowered, flashing light coming to intersection

by Trina Berlo

Councillor Marty Beelen continues to look for ways to reduce collisions at two problem intersections on County Road 9, east of Cashtown Corners.

He amended his motion tabled at Clearview council's Monday meeting to investigate adding signage warning “cross traffic does not stop” at the intersections of Centre Line Road and 3/4 Sideroad Sunnidale in place of rumble strips.

Area residents have been vocal in their opposition to rumble strips but are in favour of speed reduction. They are hoping that lowering the posted speed limits will prompt GPS navigation systems to bump north-south traffic back to Airport Road.

Beelen was also able to get support for his motion to reduce the speed limit to 60 km/hr on Centre Line Road and 3/4 Sideroad Sunnidale, northbound and southbound approaching the intersections.

He is also investigating the installation of speed cameras and speed tables, and

he reported that the County of Simcoe is adding flashing lights to the stop signs at Centre Line Road.

“This is my solution to some of the problems we are having there,” said Beelen.

A traffic study found that from 20152020 there were 33 collisions on Centre Line Road and 17 on 3/4 Sideroad Sunnidale.

“We’ve had 14 [collisions] in half a year,” said Beelen, adding that the data indicates the volume of traffic is increasing, even though the township does not have updated traffic counts.

“Reducing the speed approaching these intersections should reduce the severity of accidents if they occur,” reported Beelen.

Road crews will also be painting the words ‘stop ahead’ on the asphalt leading up to the stop sign.

“I hesitate to include more signage,” said deputy director of public works Dan Perreault. “Too much signage and it becomes part of the scenery and

(See “Collision” on page 3)

BIA relieved of vendor approval authority

by Trina Berlo

Finding that the Township of Clearview’s Vending Bylaw “empowers the Creemore BIA Board to act beyond its statutory and constitutional purposes,” council is amending the bylaw.

The change will downgrade the BIA Board of Management’s input on vendor permit applications to a commenting agency, rather than an approval authority when reviewing vending applications within the jurisdiction of the Business Improvement Area.

“It is important to council and the administration to continue fostering a good partnership with the Creemore BIA board of management,” reported clerk Sasha Helmkay to council on August 14. “Amending the current bylaw to allow the Creemore BIA to

comment rather than approve a vending application within the jurisdiction of the Business Improvement Area is a protection measure, as the township now understands that the bylaw in its current state creates a direct conflict.”

When the Vending Bylaw was approved in 2014, Creemore BIA Board of Management was given approval authority over the location within the defined business improvement area.

The issue came to light in 2023 when two vendor permit applications were received.

“It was proceeding through these application processes that the question regarding a potential conflict of interest was raised,” reported Helmkay. “It became a concern that the bylaw put BIA board members in a real conflict and had exceeded their statutory purpose.”

The CAO sought a legal option which confirmed concerns.

“In our view, the township’s Vending Bylaw poses a real risk of creating direct conflict by positioning the Creemore BIA Board as an approval authority within the vending application process,” writes James I. McIntosh of Barriston Law. “In accordance with the Municipal Act, the membership of the Creemore BIA Board is largely determined by and includes local commercial property owners and tenants. The nature of the Board’s membership raises a legitimate concern that a significant number of BIA Board members maintain financial or private interests that may be affected by the outcome of a vending application decision. The

participation of these members in the vending application process would constitute a conflict in violation of the Township’s Code of Conduct for Committees and Boards.”

The letter also says, “[in accordance with the Municipal Act], a municipality shall not, except as otherwise provided, refuse to grant a licence for a business by reason only of the location of the business.”

The BIA will have 14 days to provide comment from the receipt of the application.

BIA president Nancy Johnston said members of the BIA board are relieved to have to the approval authority removed saying it did create a conflict for members who are business owners themselves but also community members.

Staff photo: Trina Berlo Clearview Township and the County of Simcoe are adding safety measures to the intersection of County Road 9 and Centre Line Road.

COMMUNITY

Friday, August 18 to Monday, August 21

• Nottawasaga Daylilies open garden for viewing. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.wilsondaylilies.com. 705-4662916. See ad on page 11.

Saturday, August 19

• Creemore Farmers' Market every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Station on the Green, 10 Caroline St. E. August 19: Kid's activities with Jason George. August 26: the Farmers' Market will be moving to the Village Green from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. for Copper Kettle Festival.

• Creemore Log Cabin open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday until September. History hosts onsite to answer questions.

• Barrie Farmers' Market every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to support over 70 local farmers, musicians, artisans, bakers, and so much more! 70 Collier St., Barrie.

Sunday, August 20

• Sunday is Fun Day with free fitness and live music every week, all summer long at the Creemore Village Green! Fitness classes start at 10 a.m., live music at 1 p.m. August 20: Martial Arts with Maizis, Matthew & Richard playing jazz. August 27: Tai Chi with CTCA, calssic rock performed by Not Ottawa.

• “Knit in public” event. Meet by the fountain at Creemore Village Green for 11 a.m. As a part of this year’s Festival of the Arts, the Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society will include a “wool-to-wear” interactive centre. Knitters will have a heritage pattern, project in support of a War Memorial representing Women’s Work in the Maritimes. Enthusiastic knitters and those curious about knitting welcome. Contact: 905-717-6123.

Monday, August 21 and Tuesday, August 22

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

Tuesday, August 22

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

• Cybergnomes Robotics information night at the New Lowell Legion from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For parents and students ages 9-18 to ask questions and learn about available programs.

Wednesday, August 23

• The Clearview Public Library is hosting Reptilia's Mobile Zoo Party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Stayner Branch, 269 Regina Street. This is a free, family-friendly come-and-go event.

Thursday, August 24

• Stayner Music, Market and Park It every Thursday night until August 24 at Station Park. Enjoy live music, fresh produce, artists, kids' events, classic cars and food vendors. Beer, wine and cider bar served by the Stayner Kinsmen Club. The Tourism Information and Heritage Centre is open from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Farmers' market from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Live music from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Bring your own lawn chair and settle in for an enjoyable night! Station Park, 7259 Highway 26, Stayner.

Friday, August 25

• Friday Night BBQ Evenings at the Stayner Legion, Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Delicious hot dogs and burgers, everyone welcome. Sales benefit the Stayner Legion.

• Line dancing lessons every Friday night from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Station on the Green. $15 per person. Beginner friendly, bring your water bottle. Sign up at the Creemore 100 Mile Store or call/text Linda at 705-794-0638.

Saturday, August 26

• Copper Kettle Festival hosted by Creemore Springs Brewery. Live music, car show, makers' market, farmers' market and beer garden. See page 8-9.

• The Missing Link performs at the Stayner Legion starting at 4 p.m. All are welcome to attend. No cover, just great music and good times. For information visit the Stayner Legion Facebook page or call the Branch at 705-428-3809. Upcoming events: Allan Scott Band on Sept. 2; Len Murphy on Sept. 9; Rob Martini on Sept. 16; Rod Snow and Ken Fromager performing country and rock on Sept. 23.

Tuesday, Sept. 12

• The Creemore Skating Club skating registration, September 12 and 19 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Creemore Arena Parking Lot. Programs offered include: Pre-CanSkate, CanSkate and STARSkate. Contact creemoreskatingclub@gmail.com (Julie Bigham) for more info and registration packages.

Thursday, Sept. 14

• Inaugural Annual General Meeting of the Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Network. Receive an update on NEBN activities since last year's event, the upcoming event at Celebration of Nations, and participate in a discussion with board members regarding collective NEBN priorities. 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Gathering Place by the Grand, 2593 Chiefswood Rd., Ohsweken. To register, please RSVP to Brad May, Secretary, at 4seeability@gmail.com or call/text 647-978-5945.

Sunday, Sept. 17

• Terry Fox Marathon of Hope, Creemore 10 a.m. until finish. Two, five, seven and 10 kms. Walk, run, ride or push a stroller or wheelchair Everyone is welcome to join the Banda Bootkickers or form their own team. Link to register or donate is found at run.terryfox.ca/28711.

Tuesday, Sept. 19

• Confessions of a Fairy's Daughter opening night. Tells the story of a young girl growing up with a gay father in the 1980s. Show runs Sept. 19-23 at 65 Simcoe St., Collingwood. Visit theatrecollingwood.ca or call 705-445-2200 for more information and tickets.

Wednesday, Sept. 20

• Creemore Horticultural Society meeting and inhouse fall flower and vegetable show. Speaker: Heidi from Rural Roots Nursery, "The trials and tribulations of running a small farming operation." Station on the Green at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Come early for social time. All welcome. Contact: creemorehort@gmail.com, www. CreemoreHort.com. All entries for the flower show must be delivered, properly labelled by 6 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 22

• Save the date: St. John's United Church, Creemore is once again holding their Fowl Supper from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please note the date change.

Ongoing

Tuesday, Sept. 11

The Retired Women Teachers Of Ontario (Blue Mountain Branch) welcomes newly or previously retired women teachers to attend a meeting at Trinity United Church in Collingwood. 11 a.m. registration. For further information, call Lois at 705-428-2880.

• Meditation and connection, Saturdays from 10 a.m. until noon, Wednesdays 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. $30 per person. Are you asking questions about what is happening in yourself, in relationships, in the world or just need some selfcare time? Everyone is welcome! This group is a place of healing, discussion and learning. 2553 County Rd 42 in Stayner. Email journeytoclarity@ yahoo.ca or call 705-734-5981 with any questions or to reserve a space.

• Creemore Missfits Bounce Fit and full body bootcamp classes at Station on the Green. Follow Creemore Missfits on Instagram or Facebook for weekly class schedule or call 705-441-6386. COME JOIN US

Park vandals ruin tables, toilets

Huronia West OPP and Clearview Township has issued a plea for information about “a recent rash of vandalism” at Stayner parks.

Between August 12 and 14 the vandals destroyed tables by ripping them apart, tipping over portable washrooms and putting the pieces of the tables and seats into the portable washrooms at Station Park and Ives Park in Stayner.

Municipal officials say, as a result, the township will no longer be able to secure portable washroom contracts from some vendors and if the vandalism continues will be forced to remove targeted park amenities.

“Destruction of public property hurts us all. Vandalism as we have seen in our community these

past weeks is simply unacceptable. If you know something about this damage, I encourage you to call the OPP,” said Mayor Doug Measures

“Clearview has provided these amenities to improve enjoyment and quality of life for our residents and is saddened that the actions of a few will shortchange the rest of our community.”

Police are asking anyone with camera footage in the area to check it for the suspects.

Anyone with information regarding the destruction is asked to contact the Huronia West OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers online at www.p3tips. com.

Collision mitigation measure too much, too soon?

(Continued from page 1)

people don’t pay attention to it.”

He said the municipality is trying to do the most that it can to keep motorists safe but there is some outrageous driver behaviour that cannot be controlled.

“I would be concerned with adding too much, too soon,” said Perreault.

He said he will be talking with the township’s traffic consultant and the County of Simcoe before bringing a report back to council.

As an addition to the motion, council will ask the county of Simcoe to consider reducing the speed on County Road 9 leading up to the intersections.

Christian Meile, director of transportation and engineering for the County of Simcoe, confirmed a flashing red light will be installed on the top of the stop sign at Centre Line Road.

“We continue to work with our member municipalities to build up our transportation infrastructure and invest in road construction, rehabilitation and improvement projects throughout the county,” said Meile in a statement to The Echo. “Safety continues to be our highest priority. We are in regular contact with our municipal partners, and we are aware of the motion before Clearview council surrounding the intersection of County Road 9 and Centre Line Road.

“Working with Clearview, the county took action in 2022, to address previous feedback, and we remain committed to working with the township to investigate potential safety issues and take action, where necessary. Previous work included upgraded ‘stop’ and ‘stop ahead’ signs to oversized sign, upgraded pavement markings, and the county installed a streetlight at the intersection for better nighttime visibility.

“In July of this year, the county repainted stop blocks at the intersection and will be installing a flashing red light on the top of the stop sign. Timing of the flashing light install is still being determined based on the arrival of equipment.”

Councillor Robert Walker said maybe it’s time to reduce the speeds on some of the township’s northsouth routes from top to bottom.

“Living off of Centre Line, I’ll tell you, it’s nuts,” Walker told fellow councillors. “I do believe that reducing the speed limit… it’s not going to matter. We can reduce that speed limit to 30 km/hr if we want to but people are still going to come over the top of that hill on Centre Line and they’re still going to do their 80 km/hr. We can do what we can do and what we can do is adjust the speed. We can’t control it and we can’t enforce it.”

Photos show damage to park amenities by vandals this week.

OPINION &

THE WAY WE WERE COLUMN

What your blood work is telling you

Blood work is an important aspect of proper patient care and case management. I order blood work for most of my patients, as it’s important to see what’s going on “under the hood!” I also use blood work results to create a baseline for treatment goals and tracking health outcomes. Often when patients get their results, it is hard to understand what it all means and going to the Google machine can make it even worse! Here is a general breakdown of some of the most common lab tests, and how to decode your lab report:

Complete blood count – This analyzes the counts of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets in your blood, as well as the concentration of hemoglobin. Red blood cells are assessed by size, volume and height, and flags in this category usually relate to deficiencies in iron, B12, folate and hemoglobin. The white blood cells can indicate if the system is fighting infection (when they are high) and when the system is depleted (when they are low).

Ferritin – Ferritin is a blood protein that contains iron and is the most reliable indicator of your iron stores. The range is quite wide and anemia is considered if the values are less than 10 mcg/L (but I like to see patients over 50 mcg/L to be considered non-symptomatic of iron deficiency). In addition, this test is an indicator of conditions with heightened iron absorption and potentially liver disease.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone – This hormone is sent from the pituitary gland to the thyroid gland to trigger the release of Thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) to the rest of the body to control metabolism. This is a tricky value to read into as high levels indicate a low functioning thyroid gland and low levels indicate an over functioning thyroid gland. In practice, I see more hypothyroidism (high TSH) which presents as fatigue, weight gain, skin and hair changes and lethargy.

Fasting Blood Glucose and HbA1C – This test measures the amount of sugar in your blood and your predisposition to Diabetes (Type 2). You want both of these measures to be under 6, but I start preventative treatment with my patients at levels around 5.4. It is important to intervene before the numbers get above 5.4 as positive changes can often be accomplished with diet, exercise and lifestyle modifications.

C Reactive Protein – This blood protein measures inflammation in the body. Ideal values are meant to be under 5 mg/L. Anything above that indicates active inflammation. I see this value elevated with auto-immune diseases, active infections, arthritis and gut imbalances. Be sure to review your blood work with a registered health professional. Many alternative health folks are doing great things out there but aren’t qualified or registered to diagnose pathologies or give advice on blood work.

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

LETTERS

Letter increases we-them divide

Editor:

(Re: Letter to the Editor: Worlds Collide by Murray Lackie, The Creemore Echo, Friday, August 11, page 5)

Murray, I was with you in the very beginning of your letter as you stated that you “would never assign boorish behaviour exclusively to any subset of society.”

Then you got into the weeds of single file versus tandem for bike riders and as a fellow biker I agree that not everyone is in the same lane on the subject and that’s understandable given the vagaries of the rules.

But I lost you completely when you contradicted your own statements about not assigning blame to one economic class and ended your letter by suggesting that the wealthy under donate to charities.

And yes, I know that it was your investment advisor who was speaking but a slander repeated is still a slander.

Ask the people at our hospital, My Friend’s House, our local humane society, hospice or any of the scores of important local charities whether wealthy people contribute. As a former Trustee of the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital, I know who the volunteers are on the local boards and I know who many of the volunteers are in our local organizations.

So Murray, we love you as Creemore’s crusty opinionator but stop with the “guillotines and revolutionaries” language and take your own advice about sneering at some and adding to the divide between we and them.

Jeff Shearer, Nottawa.

Find a solution that works for all

Editor:

Regarding the recent removal of sidewalk seating at the Creemore Bakery on Mill Street (Township removes patio furniture for non-compliance, The Creemore Echo, Friday, August 11, page 1.)

Surely this could have been resolved in a more friendly small town fashion.

With only four months to sit outside and socialize

with friends and visitors to our town was this high handed resolution really necessary?

Visitors enjoy the small town atmosphere of our village and we enjoy the revenue that they bring. Other businesses have used sidewalk seating with no trouble. Put the chairs back in a way that works for everyone.

Marilyn Chenier, Creemore.

The Creemore Echo is published every Friday and distributed free locally. Editorial and advertising material deadline is Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Letters to the editor should be sent to editor@creemore.com. We reserve the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

To receive a weekly copy of The Creemore Echo by mail outside of the circulation area or e-mail version please contact us at info@ creemore.com or visit www.creemore.com.

Kate HUNTER HEALTH MATTERS

The Creemore Springs brew team from a 1990 Creemore Star photo: Robert Curran, Kurtis Zeng and Gord Fuller.

Sidewalk social zone is now universally recognized

Editor:

Creemore Bakery patio is no more. And poetic moments cherished by “Patio” society are gone with it. Reason? Someone complained about crowds of people flocking in front of the bakery. Apparently some people stood in the way of some other people. That’s the story. The only question that is remaining is: “Who is being punished? Bakery owners for their hard work and good service or innocent bystanders exercising the right to sit in public space?” It seems obvious that who is also being punished are stores and businesses nearby as well as Creemore's reputation. Synergy of activities and whole town has been weakened.

Urban designers and planners are recognizing three types of activities related to a sidewalk use: “necessary”, “alternative” and “social.”

The “necessary” are associated with the protected space along the road for people walking from place to place, allowing an access to stores and houses, etc. The design and dimensions are governed by the building code, bylaws and widely accepted regulations. It’s the

technical issue.

The “alternative” activities on the other hand are related to the quality of the town environment and street liveability. They include trees, flowers, artwork, garbage cans, lampposts, benches and among other things also the patio settings with tables, chairs and umbrellas.

The “social” function of the sidewalk is the single most important activity guaranteeing to town residents the quality of life, and fame of the place spreading around by words of mouth. It’s so easy to forbid something good. Ignoring or misunderstanding the social aspect of the street activities is the fundamental failure of the city authorities.

Even though “patios” have their legal definition and their existence is governed by rules and regulations, the primary reason for patios presence on the streets is to serve for the pleasure of people. Creemore – a little village with the big heart (the name derived from the Irish “croi mor,” which means “big heart) – is a destination town. It’s a point of natural gravitation of

people living even hundreds of kilometres away. It is also a pit-stop of large number of cyclists, and many more who are just passing by or seeking the small town atmosphere.

Importance of the sidewalk as people’s social zone is now universally recognized. Professionals such as Jane Jacobs (author of Life and Death of North American Cities) and many others are trying to make city streets livable again. There is more than just bureaucratic measures behind the sidewalk safety management.

As Covid changed our life dramatically we believe that “patio” rules need to be reviewed and eventually changed too. If we consider the best Canadian tradition of finding fair solution through the negotiation, all of us can be happy.

There are many more of those who love to sit in the Creemore Bakery patio, meet neighbours and friends, drink freshly brewed coffee, and gossip, than those who lost their “big heart.”

Send letters to the editor to editor@creemore. com.Alllettersmustbesignedwiththewriter'sfull nameandincludeaphonenumber(whichwillnot beprinted.)Deadlineis5p.m.onTuesdays. We appreciate submissions for our They Way WeWerefeature.Bringinyouroldphotosandwe will scan them and get right back to you. We also acceptsubmissionsbye-mailtoeditor@creemore. com.Thankyou.

Jan Benda, Mulmur.

Staff photo: Trina Berlo

Regular customers at Creemore Bakery and Cafe took part in a peaceful protest last Friday after the patio seating was removed by the township. They arrived for their morning coffee with their own chairs and were careful to maintain a pedestrian clearance.

Federal grant helps fund efficiency reno at Tall Small Hall

by Trina Berlo

Singhampton gets hit with some pretty big storms but nothing can dampen the hospitality of the area’s residents, as demonstrated by an epic community effort to feed and shelter up to 100 stranded travellers in late February 2019.

That severe storm precipitated a recent makeover for Singhampton Community Centre – affectionately called the tall small hall because it is close to the highest point in southern Ontario – home of the famous Ramp Romp.

Back in 2019, the draughty hall was opened to anyone who needed to take refuge from those snowy roads, made warm and comfortable by the steaming food and pleasant company.

Hall board member Peggy Hutchison said that event inspired hall volunteers to think about making the hall more efficient – winterizing it and sealing up some of the draughts.

The hall was built in 1892 as a Methodist Church and, until March when the renovation work was complete, daylight could be seen through the old doors.

The hall board applied for a grant in April 2021 with the help of Carla Hanisch, a local chef and farmer, and Brad Bremner who moved out west mid-application after dedicating many years and man-hours to the hall.

The community owned and operated hall was allocated funds from the

her is one of the new, custom made doors with new panic bars, locks, and stops. The famous wild leek celebrated at Ramp Romp in early May stands beside the doorway. The leek, pork and pie supper originally raised funds to build a Singhampton Fire Hall, but now raises funds to operate the hall.

Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario via the Canada Community Revitalization

Fund, to help communities across Canada build and improve community infrastructure projects so they can

rebound from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with the goal of building new community infrastructure and revitalize existing assets; bringing people back to public spaces safely as health measures ease; and creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

The grant covered 75 per cent of the total $22,000 project which included insulating and ventilating ceilings, new doors and windows, panic bars and locks.

The community celebrated the completion of the renovation project with a barbecue and silent auction on August 13, attended by more than 100 people who visited with friends and neighbours.

“We draw a radius,” said Hutchison, noting they come from both sides of the road – Simcoe and Grey counties.

“People who come from about 20 kilometres consider that to be their centre.”

Hall volunteers continue to raise funds for a growing wish-list of further improvements including paint, new flooring and siding.

To contribute to the hall, contact singhamptonhall@gmail.com.

During the Small Halls Festival Singhampton Community Centre will present a rug hooking class on Sept. 30, a musical performance by Lance Dobinson on Oct. 13, a whiskey tasting on Oct. 14, and will be part of the Back Roads Rally on Oct. 15. For tickets and info, visit www.smallhallsfestival.ca.

Contributed photo

Joan Monahan on the front steps of Singhampton Community Centre. Behind

Foster homes needed for pets getting a second chance

by Bonnie MacPherson

Volunteers with the Owen Sound based pet rescue organization Second Chance Rescue will travel to Texas in early September to bring back eight dogs from a “high kill” shelter and have issued an urgent appeal for pet foster families in the Creemore area.

Joline Christiani has a long history of fostering, first with Save our Scruff Pet Rescue in Toronto, then later with Fetch and Releash in Oakville. It was during this time that she met Angela Parker, founder of Second Chance Rescue. When she moved to Creemore in the fall of 2019 she knew she wanted to get involved.

Christiani has fostered 17 dogs, including a couple that she laughingly describes as 'foster fails' – dogs that she was unable to part with at the end of the foster period and wound up adopting.

Currently on maternity leave with a new baby, Christiani is taking on a new foster coordinator role with Second Chance. She would like to find as many foster homes as possible in the Creemore area, and says a minimum of three will be needed to accommodate the dogs being rescued from Texas. The more foster homes they have, the more dogs they can rescue. Foster families are provided with everything they need to care for the dogs including crates, toys, and food all of which are donated. The foster period varies in duration, but typically dogs are given about two weeks to settle in after being rescued,

then after a vet check to identify any health issues, bios are posted to the website where they are offered for adoption. Most pets are adopted within two months.

Foster families are carefully vetted by the organization before pets are placed. They may or may not have fenced yards, other pets, or children in the home. The only absolute requirement, according to Christiani, is the ability to provide a safe space for the dogs. Efforts are made to match pets with the needs and abilities of the foster families.

For example, her parents, who are in their 70s, foster only senior dogs.

Many would-be foster families are concerned about becoming attached to the rescued pet and being broken hearted when they are finally adopted. Christiani has two step children, aged eight and 10 who are totally accustomed to seeing dogs come and go. They know that when a rescue pet is adopted, another one will soon take its place. Christiani is still close with the people who adopted the very first dog she fostered, and says it is fulfilling to see rescue pets find loving, forever homes.

There are many ways to volunteer with Second Chance including dog sitting for fosters, transporting pets and soliciting donations. For now, the priority is finding new foster families.

For more information, visit www. secondchanceanimalsanctuary.ca or email Christiani at Joline.c@gmail. com.

FRIDAY,

Staff photo: Bonnie MacPherson

Joline Christiani with her two 'foster fails' Max and Twain

Copper Kettle Festival is taking place Saturday, Aug. 26! As approved by Clearview Township the following street closures will be in effect from 6am to 7pm:

• Mill Street, from just north of Caroline Street to Edward Street

• Caroline St W, from Mill Street to 8 Caroline Street (Eastwood Vintage) & Caroline St E to 3 Caroline St E (Body 'N Balance)

• Elizabeth St W from just behind Heirloom 142 to Mill St & Elizabeth St. E from Mill to back end of the Brewery

Please note that during this time, there will be NO PARKING OR VEHICLE ACCESS in or out of this area in order to accommodate street activities. We kindly ask that if you do park in this area, to please consider parking elsewhere the evening before. Our set-up will begin at 6:00am, Saturday. We will attempt to keep noise levels to a minimum.

Please join in the festivities planned for the day

Thank you

8:30am to 12:30pm Creemore Farmers Market 10am to 4pm Classic Car show & Makers Market 11am Beinn Gorm Highlanders pipe & drum band 11am Creemore Cask Competition Starts 12pm to 4pm Brewery Tours 11am to 6pm Beer Garden with live music 11am to 5pm Kids Activity area 11:30am to 4pm Live

Recreation SPORTS&

12U Cardinals win YSBA championship

by Scott Weldon

After finishing the regular season with a 16-1 record, the Creemore Cardinals 12U team won four straight games to win the York Simcoe Baseball Association ‘A’ championship tournament this past weekend in Vaughan.

In the first game of the tournament the Cardinals defeated the Thornhill Redbirds by a score of 11-2. Reece Fuller earned the win on the mound after throwing two perfect innings while Hayden Goodfellow-Oster finished off the game with a scoreless last inning and two strikeouts.

On Saturday morning, pitcher Rhys Rowbotham led the Cardinals by throwing a complete game, two hit shutout against the Stouffville Yankees. Keenan Reynolds smashed two triples and Paul Twiss anchored the infield defence on the way to a 15-0 win.

The afternoon game on Saturday had another great pitching performance. This time, Evan Wells would throw a complete game against the Markham Mariners in a 13-1 Cardinal win.

These three wins earned the team a spot in the championship game against the Vaughan Vikings. Thomas Weldon would continue the streak of strong

pitching performances with a complete game one-hit shutout in a 10-0 win.

Dylan Rayburn had two hits and three stolen bases including a steal of home in the victory.

By winning the YSBA championship the Cardinals have earned a berth in the Baseball Ontario provincial championships Labour Day weekend in Chatham.

The local edition of the Terry Fox Marathon of Hope is Sunday, Sept. 17 with options to walk, run, rollerblade, bike, or push a stroller or wheelchair.

Participants are welcome to form a team or join the Banda Bootkickers as they honour the courage of Terry Fox, loved ones and friends who have battled cancer.

Start from Banda Corners (County Road 42 and Mulmur Nottawasaga TownLine) continuing into Glencairn, along Webster Road down Centre Line with options for 2-, 5-, 7- or 10-km walk.

Road closures will be in place beginning at 10 a.m.

There will be a barbecue to follow for all registered participants. Register and donate at run.terryfox.ca/28711.

$8,500,000 | MulmurEstate.ca

Secluded 159-acre Mulmur estate, 90 min from Toronto. Renovated 7,600+ sqft home, pool, views, trails, wildlife. Luxury living integrated with nature.

Luxury modern bungalow on 38-acres across road from Bruce Trail. Meticulously designed by Fieldesign & John Gordon Custom Homes, blending steel, concrete, cedar. Serene interior, 14ft ceilings, STUV21 fireplace, chef’s kitchen, hickory hardwood. $4,480,000 | MulmurModern.ca

Former 1800s schoolhouse exquisitely transformed into a modern 2.3-acre country oasis in Southgate, Grey County. 3000+ Sq ft living, 5 fireplaces, chef’s kitchen, guest building, fitness studio, spa hot tub. $1,990,000 | FireSideRetreat.ca

Impeccably designed post/beam home on 6 acres with stunning Devil’s Glen Park views. 2400+ Sq ft, cathedral ceilings, stone fireplace, glass deck. Quality finishes, garage with heated shop. Adjacent to Devil’s Glen Ski Club $1,880,000 | DevilsGlenChalet.ca

Front row, from left: Angus Lodge, Nova Lisk, LJ Burnaccioni, Ella Palmer, Abigail Woudenberg. Middle Row: Katie Duits, Avery Cook, Theo Hignett, Silas Laird, Harlen Barkovitz. Back Row: Matt Lisk, Dan Palmer, Mike Cook, Shannon Duits. Absent: Riley Holzer, Zoey Gracey, Farra Cooper, Blackey Ridout, Tom Ridout, Sparky Duits

8U Cardinals make finals

The Creemore Cardinals 8U minor baseball team finished their season last weekend, making it to the finals in Everett. The 14 players were all new to baseball when the season began in May and struggled through a steep learning curve with a string of losses in a tough regular season. But last weekend their hard work and commitment paid off as strong defence from infielders Angus Lodge, Harlen Barkovitz and Silas Laird helped shutout the Angus Avengers and limit the Everett Eagles to four runs.

Impressive offence throughout the tournament from Katie Duits (10 for 15, 8 runs) and Avery Cook (15 for 15, 8 runs) were key to consecutive wins against the higher ranked teams on Saturday to advance to the South Simcoe B Side Finals where they were defeated by the Stayner White Sox.

The strong finish was really a team effort from all the players and parents who remained committed throughout the season, keen for practices, and eager on game days.

10367 County Road 10, New Lowell, ON L0M 1N0

Tel: 705-424-9799 • Fax: 705-424-6075

Toll Free: 800-265-0046 • info@regionofhuronia.com

Municipal Waste Services

Biosolids, NASM (Non Agricultural Source Materials)

Land Application

Lagoon Storage & Rental

Lagoon Dredging

Wet Well & Pump Station Cleaning & By-Pass

Digester & Clarifier Cleaning

Commercial & Industrial Services

Grease Trap Cleaning

Sewer Pipe Flushing, Jetting & Camera Service

Manhole Cleaning and Flushing

Septic Services

Residential & Commercial Pumping

Farm Services

Manure Pit Cleaning

Land Application

(ASM Agricultural Source Material)

Cleaning, Flushing & Jetting

Floor Drains & Man Holes

Stormceptors & Interceptors

Sewer & Storm Pipes

11U Cardinals end season with spirit

Congratulations to the 11U Cardinals who completed the season with a tie-breaker Tuesday night against New Lowell. While they will not be advancing to Round 2, they won the hearts of Clearview by vastly improving their skills.

Players Troy McDermid and Lucas Dunlop hit memorable home runs, Colbey Bage, August Farley, Troy McDermid , Zygmunt Woyzbun , and Wilhem James provided steady, defensive pitching. Charlotte Metheral, Tyler Morwood, Luke de

Ruiter, Lukas Weterings, Jardine Ridout , Otti Zapotocky , Elan Barkovitz, and Callum Lodge offered tight field play and high team spirit.

The team would like to thank volunteers Tom Woyzbun , Eva Nesselroth-Woyzbun , Caroline McIntosh, Matt Martin, Tom Ridout, Jace Metheral , and Chris Farley , our borrowed 9U teammates, and all the parents from Creemore, Stayner, and Nottawa for their dedication and enthusiasm from the sidelines.

We hope to see you next summer!

Dangerous Commodity Services

Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Classes 2,3,5,8,9

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Specialty Equipment

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Flusher Truck & 200 foot CCTV Camera

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20’ Pre-till Spreading Unit

30’ Coulter Injection Spreading Unit

Emergency Spill Clean Up 24-hour Service

Contributed photo

Contributed photo

New sustainability network puts emphasis on climate

by Trina Berlo

A grassroots movement to encourage local climate action has resulted in the formation of the Clearview Sustainability Network.

Members of the community frustrated by the lack of follow-through on a promise to strike a Climate Action Committee, as approved by Clearview Council last June, have come together to learn and generate ideas about how to address climate change locally.

The Clearview Sustainability

Network has defined itself as an inclusive and optimistic citizenled group bringing together diverse members of our community to help our local government adapt and evolve in the face of a changing climate.

Community enthusiasm for climate action was evidenced by the attendance of more than 40 people at an informal meeting last month at the home of Jim Campbell and Suzanne Wesetvik

They had worked with former ward councillor Doug McKechnie to bring

Church Directory

Clearview Community Church

9:30 a.m. Sunday

Pastor Clayton Culham

22 Caroline St. W., Creemore

705-430-6056

Online worship available. clearviewcommunity.church clearviewchurch@rogers.com

Creemore and New Lowell Pastoral Charge

10 a.m. at New Lowell 192 Mill St., Creemore

Rev. Jane Sullivan

705-466-2200

August services will be held at New Lowell United. No service at St. John's this month.

newlowellunitedchurch.weebly.com www.stjohnscreemore.ca newlowellunitedchurch@weebly.com creemorepastoralcharge@rogers.com

Knox Presbyterian Church

10 a.m. Sunday

Pastor Deb Curry 8933 County Rd. 9, Dunedin 705-466-2296

Beginning August 13, service will be led by Jane Archer.

St. Luke’s Anglican Church 11:15 a.m. Sunday Rev. Sharon Sangster and Rev. Lorna May 22 Caroline St. W., Creemore 705-352-2759 or 705-466-2206

Holy Eucharist first, third and fifth Sunday - Book of Alternative Services, followed by coffee hour. Morning prayer on second and fourth Sunday. www.stlukescreemore.ca

HIT THE ROAD JACK

forward the motion last year that led to the approval of the Climate Action Committee, which has yet to come to fruition.

McKechnie was in attendance to review the timeline. In June 2022, council supported a motion to direct the CAO and staff to: Appoint a Climate Action Committee and draft a terms of reference following a community engagement process; Confirm full membership to the Federation of Canadian municipalities (FCM) and that the CAO recommend interested councillors participate in the various FCM committees that focus on Climate Protection and funding opportunities; and Recognize a climate crisis exists and through the CAO continue to work and implement best practices that reduce emissions and increase community engagement practices.

By including the climate crisis in the Strategic Plan review currently underway, the network is urging residents to express their support for climate action in the community engagement survey. They are also collecting signatures on a letter requesting that a climate lens be applied when updating the Strategic Plan.

“To make our township as sustainable and resilient as possible, it is incumbent upon us to do all we can to minimize extreme weather effects through strong mitigation efforts, as well as be as prepared as possible with future-ready adaptation measures for our changing climate,” states the

letter. “Incorporating a climate lens in Clearview Township’s updated Strategic Plan would be an excellent start in our efforts, by ensuring all our future municipal decisions take climate considerations into account, including both GHG reduction strategies and resilient adaptation measures.”

The group has identified key positions including protecting Clearview’s existing farmland, and supporting farmers in their efforts to increase the resiliency of their farming operations; Respecting and honouring the teachings of Indigenous communities, incorporating reconciliation in climate action, particularly thinking in terms of the Seven Generations; Assisting the township in further educating and motivating staff and the public on the changing climate, working together to create a roadmap to reach net-zero and decarbonize township operations; Promoting the transition to low greenhouse gas transportation and encouraging active transportation; Protecting natural environments; in addition to education and promoting access to resources.

Clearview Sustainability Network will be meeting at Station on the Green in Creemore on Wednesday evening, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. All welcome.

The Strategic Plan review survey is open until August 30 at www.clearview. ca/government-committees/council/ strategic-plan. Anyone wishing to sign the letter can do so at The Creemore Echo office.

KIDD FAMILY AUCTIONS - PRESENTSTHE 5% ‘STRAIGHT SHOOTER’ SALE It’s back and bigger than ever! 5 DAY SALE FROM AUG 22 TO 26.

Low 5% Buyers Premium & A Very Competitive Selling Commission. This auction has everything. Are you an historical or military collector? Or are you an Outdoorsman? YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THE ONLINE BIDDING. SALE STARTS CLOSING AUG 22 AT 5PM.

Call, text, or email anytime for more details.

by Barbara Simpson

Blood vessel prefix

At a great distance

Queen’s Plate winner in

Hereditary unit

32. Not live

34. Walls built to hold back water

37. Growling sound

39. Illegal drug

40. Town in Ontario known for its stock car races

41. Old Testament book

43. Robitaille who played for the Kings

44. Shirt part

46. As a whole (Latin)

48. Injured arm support 49. Dirty-looking

50. Sports team

51. Pen for pigs

1. Unwanted things that you throw away

Sphere

Shipbuilding wood

Enrich with vitamins and minerals 5. Do what one is told 6. Daily record of a ship’s voyage 7. Bowler hat

Prove false

Long straight cut

Canadian stand-up comedian Cullen

Brightest star in Lyra

Children’s game

Former Canadian TV series 20. Some jewellery

Large across

24. First and lowest whole number

26. State-of-the-___

28. Make a pig of oneself

29. Words of regret

30. One authorized to act as a substitute for another

33. Art ___

34. Calendar abbreviation

35. Old Testament book

36. Girlfriends of gangsters

38. Fiona of “King of Kensington”

End part of the arm

Black cuckoos

Roman numeral for 52

Powerful explosive, for short

Get your shovel out for Dog Strangling Vine

by Cathy Krar, Master Gardener Dog Strangling Vine (DSV)

tops my list for most unwanted invasive species.

Having spent hours and hours this past year cutting seed pods, digging out root systems and mowing DSV plants on private properties and hiking trails, I am convinced that this invader is big trouble.

It is not particular about habitat. DSV can be found in fields, shrub thickets, on lake coastlines, stream banks, from tall bluffs to deep ravines, from deep shade forest to open prairie.

What is the fuss all about you may ask? Well, perhaps the most well known threat that DSV poses is to the at-risk Monarch butterfly population.

DSV mimics native milkweed and confuses Monarchs so that they mistakenly lay they eggs on DSV. The butterfly larvae starve to death because DSV does not provide the nourishment they need. And if that wasn’t enough to be concerned about, DSV out competes native plants for sunlight, space, water and nutrients. The third weapon in the arsenal is that this invasive plant, releases chemicals through its roots, which inhibit the growth of plants around it. Dense growth of DSV suppresses native tree seedlings and woodland groundcover plants so heavily that it adversely affects forest regeneration.

If you find DSV growing on your property, rapid removal is the best course of action. If you come upon a large area affected by DSV make a joint effort with your neighbours to control

the spread and report your finding to www.ontarioinvasiveplants.ca or by call the hotline at 1-800-563-7711.

The best way to tackle a patch of DSV is by digging out the roots and disposing of it in black plastic bags to cook for up to three weeks in direct sunlight. Do not compost or mulch this plant! Even the smallest root fragments can re-grow, so it is a good idea to keep the site under surveillance for as long as three years to ensure eradication efforts are successful. If the site is too big to dig out entirely, mowing after the flowers have bloomed and before the plant produces seed will reduce the spread of the noxious plant. If you find large areas of DSV in open fields, tarping the area with dark material to block sunlight will cook the root system. Leave the tarp for the entire growing season for highest success.

At the very least, a concentrated effort of seed pod removal in mid August and September will also stop further spread of DSV. Whatever you do, do not try tilling the plants as this will just encourage new root growth.

Consider this: Next time you’re out on a hike, keep an eye out for this aggressive bully and Monarch butterfly enemy and do what you can to eliminate it from our public trail systems.

This series of gardening articles brought to you by the Simcoe County Master Gardeners, members of the Master Gardeners of Ontario. For more information, visit www. simcoecountymg.ca.

ECHO Classifieds

FOR SALE

QUALITY HORSE HAY

Year Round Delivery

705-466-2607

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

MORRISON CENTURY

FARM - FARM FRESH FREE RANGE BROWN EGGS 1881 Concession 6, 705-888-8083.

WANTED

A Collector trying to recreate an OLD TIME GENERAL STORE is looking for items found in a General Store before 1960. Eg. tea tins, tobacco tins, candy tins, postcards, bottles, magazines, old paper items, comic books, signs, toys, advertising, old store stock, etc. Cash paid. 416745-4981 or 416-953-6219.

In this year’s Festival of the Arts, presented by the Purple Hills Arts and Heritage Society, we are playing with time. We are seeking any OLD MECHANICAL CLOCKS AND WATCHES for our tinker table. Pleas contact Beth at 905-717-6123.

HELP WANTED

Now hiring COOKS for full- and part-time positions. Our fun and friendly kitchen offers competitive wages and generous bonuses. Experience preferred but will train. Please call The Old Mill House Pub in Creemore and ask for the manager to set up an interview. 705-466-5244.

The Creemore Echo Newsstand is seeking fall and winter weekend STAFF. Perfect for a person with retail experience who loves cleaning, sorting and all things paper. Saturdays and Sundays approx. 13 hours per week. To apply email sara@creemore. com or drop off your resume in person.

Looking for extra income this fall? We're HIRING DRIVERS starting Sept. 12 bringing potatoes from field to farm. Flexible schedules. Local driving. Great people. A rewarding experience. Valid D-Z licence and abstract required. Call Adam, 519925-6812.

A week of Mulmur POND CLEANING . $35/hour, must have transportation and swim. Send a paragraph including jobs you have not been fired from to honeywoodpondwork@gmail.com.

MISSING CAT

Beloved family PET MISSING Neutered Siamese cat, male, eight years-old. Answers to "Froosh". Went missing from 2nd Line E. North of Cty Rd 21. Has a darker grey ring around his neck that looks like a collar. Reward offered if found. 647466-5608.

FUNDRAISING

As we begin our fundraising effort for 2023, the Friends of the EAST NOTTAWASAGA CEMETERY on Fairgrounds Road would like to thank all those who have contributed towards maintaining the cemetery in the past. As one of the oldest cemeteries in Simcoe County, many of the pioneers that settled this area in the mid 1800s are resting here. This is the only revenue source for maintaining the cemetery, please continue to give generously. Contributions can be made to the "East Nottawasaga Cemetery" c/o Morrison Farm, 1881 Concession 6, Creemore, L0M 1G0.

SERVICES

CONTRACTOR REPAIRS, restores, dismantles and jacks up farm buildings, homes, and cottages. Also roofing, siding, doors, windows, beams, posts, foundations, piers, cement work, fencing, eaves troughing, decks, docks installed, repaired, replaced. Contact Brian McCurdy, at 519-375-0958 or 519986-1781.

ELLIOTT PAINTING AND DECORATING, over 30 years experience with excellent references. Interior and exterior painting and wallpapering. Call for free estimate at 705-466-2356.

PAINTING, PARGING AND PRESSURE WASHING

Professional workmanship. Call Don for estimate. Call 705-424-0708 or 705-816-0708.

STONE & TILE INSTALLER

Interior and Exterior. 30+ years experience. Satisfaction guaranteed. References available. Call Kevin at 705-985-1851.

Down the Garden Path is seeking clients for GRASS CUTTING SERVICES Contact Colin, 705-791-3635.

IN MEMORIAM

CLARKE – Donna Lynda

April 7, 1939 – August 16, 2016 You will always be with us, like a handprint on our hearts... Lovingly remembered by Jerry and family.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

HUBEL, Donna Ruth (nee Melville), born in Creemore on Dec. 27, 1936, passed away in Toronto on Dec. 31, 2020 at the age of 84 after a valiant battle with Covid-19. She is survived by her loving daughter Leslie, nephews Clifford, David, Bruce and Taras Melville and their families. She is predeceased by her brother and sisterin-law Lorne and Theresa Melville and her parents Clifford and Minnie Melville. Throughout Donna's life, she was a dedicated speech teacher in Scarborough. She gave of herself to many worthwhile organizations which resulted in her making many close friends and acquaintances. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of everyone with whom she interacted and whose lives she touched. Cremation has already taken place and the funeral will be held at St. John’s United Church on Friday, Sept. 8 at 11 a.m. 192 Mill St., Creemore, ON. Proceeded by the Internment at Creemore Union Cemetery and then return to the church for a Celebration of Life to follow. Please RSVP to Leslie Hubel at 647-828-9066.

Lumber • Plywood Trusses • Windows Roofing • Siding Fence Supplies • Culverts Cedar Posts • Railway Ties Fuel Delivery •Oil Furnaces Lawn & Garden Supplies

“Nowhere... but close to everywhere.”

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