Drayton Community News December 19, 2019 by WHA Publications Ltd.

SERVING MAPLETON AND MINTO

THE

COMMUNITY NEWS VOLUME 52 ISSUE 51

1 Year GIC - 2.47% 3 Year GIC - 2.51% 5 Year GIC - 2.60%

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2019

Daily Interest 1.20%

638-3328

www.jackfinancial.ca

Mapleton passes multi-year budget with a 4.2% tax increase in 2020 By Aryn Strickland MAPLETON - Council here passed its first multiyear budget on Dec. 10 with an 8.91 per cent tax levy increase and a 4.18% rate increase on 2020 tax bills. Total operating expenditures for 2020 are outlined in the budget at a cost of $13,624,552 - an increase from $12,555,728 in 2019. There are seven roads and sidewalk reconstruction projects earmarked for 2020 in the capital budget. The largest project is the reconstruction of Sideroad 17 near Drayton, from Wellington Road 86 to Wellington Road 45, for $600,000. Concession 6 from Wellington Road 10 to Sideroad 6 in Moorefield is the second largest at $485,000. Water and Wastewater plan B is scheduled to cost $2,155,500 for 2020 if the RFP

Service celebrated - The Dec. 15 Minto 81’s home game was a special day, celebrating local service club members with a ceremonial puck drop. ABOVE: Participating in the puck drop were, from left: Petrolia Squires’ captain Jesse Ferguson, Lions Club member Fred Smith, Optimist Club member Kelly Hallman, Kinsmen Club member Alex Hoover and 81’s captain Mike Pleon. RIGHT: 81’s goalie Thomas Gainer with some of the food bank donations collected at the game. In the game itself, the 81’s came out on top by a 6-1 margin. After last weekend’s action, the 81’s sit ninth in the 14-team WOAA Senior Hockey League. The team’s next game is Dec. 20 in Durham against the seventh place Thundercats at 8:30pm. The next home action is Jan. 3 in Palmerston at 7:30pm versus the Shallow Lake Crushers. Submitted photos

process is ultimately unsuccessful. Council and staff have also budgeted for a couple of charitable projects, including Future 50/50 for $20,000 and Alma swings at $10,000. Other major capital projects planned for next year include a renovation at the PMD Arena that will cover toilets budgeted for $50,000, a dehumidifier for $30,000, and a renovation design and plan for $25,000. The township office, and Moorefield fire station will also be receiving updates in 2020. New carpet, blinds and flooring are scheduled for the township office for $25,000 as well as new computers, tablets and servers for $5,000. The township administration centre will be upgraded to LED lighting at a cost totalling $75,000. The Moorefield fire station will be receiving new

flooring at the cost of $10,000 as well as interior updates totalling $5,000, and software for $16,600. Another major increase in 2020 from 2019 is the revenue the township is expected to make from dog control fees and licensing. Adopting new policies around dog control and licensing has more than doubled the township’s expected revenue. In 2019 the township made $12,000 on dog licensing fees and $500 on dog control fines. In 2020, the township anticipates making $27,000 on licensing fees and $2,000 on dog control fines. As it stands the tax levy increases laid out in the budget for 2021, 2022 and 2023 are 2.72%, 2.31% and 1.9% respectively. Council passed the budget unanimously without further discussion.

Minto updates transient trader bylaw By Patrick Raftis MINTO – Updates to a bylaw designed to regulate transient traders in the municipality were approved by town council on Dec. 3. Bylaw enforcement officer Cam Forbes told council the bylaw was last updated in 2000 and the current ver-

sion does not address some issues that have arisen since that time. In addition to providing definitions to terms such as “door-to-door sales” and “refreshment vehicle,” the updated bylaw: - contains clear requirements to obtain a license; - requires traders to have

a current criminal background check and $2,000,000 liability insurance; - requires written permission from the owner of a property serving as a temporary sales location and inspections of the premise by the required authorities; - a requirement for all SEE BYLAW » 3

Draft capital budget proposes $8.1 million in spending MINTO – Town council was presented with a draft 2020 capital budget including just over $8.1 million in spending at a special budget meeting on Dec. 10. Acting CAO Chris Harrow explained staff is breaking with recent practice by presenting the capital budget ahead of the operating budget this year. “We’re doing capital ahead of operating simply because there’s a lot of changes going on in operating so we need to have a lot more of the yearend figures,” he stated. Harrow also noted, “The capital one is fairly straightforward this year … a lot of the projects you’ve approved already, simply because you’ve applied for grants and have been successful on a couple of them, which

required you to approve before we got into this budget process.” Roads and drainage, at $4.47 million, take up the largest share of proposed spending, followed by water and sewer at just over $2.66 million, economic development at $492,500, recreation at $230,000, protection and fire at $161,000, administration at $50,000 and building and zoning at $36,000. Grant funding will cover more than $2.97 million of proposed capital spending, with development charges expected to cover an additional $2.31 million and formulabased Ontario Community Infrastructure Fund providing $160,000. The spending will require about $900,000 in local tax dollars, with other revenue sources expected to provide a further $383,000.

SHOWING DECEMBER 20, 21 & 22 109 MINS

A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD

RATED PG

Friday & Saturday 8pm and Sunday 7pm

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!!

MAIN ST. W. PALMERSTON 519.343.3640 www.norgantheatre.com

For the second consecutive year, no new borrowing is planned, noted treasurer Gordon Duff. “Our debt is coming down, roughly by $1.1 million,” Duff pointed out. Major projects on the schedule for 2020 include: - the Arthur Street East Connecting Link project in Harriston at $1.2 million; - Lawrence Avenue reconstruction in Harriston at $410,000; - Ann Street reconstruction in Clifford, $515,000; - replacement of the Brunswick Street bridge in Palmerston for $820,000; and - $250,000 for design work on a 12th Line culvert reconstruction project. The proposed budget also includes more than $80,000 in flood mitigation work in Harriston. Major projects looming

further into the five-year capital plan include: - reconstruction of Main Street in Palmerston; - a lift station for the Palmerston Industrial Park; - Whites Road reconstruction; - Palmerston wastewater facility upgrades; and - reconstruction of John Street in Harriston. The 2020 draft budget includes about $15,000 for engineering work on the Main Street project, Harrow pointed out. “We need to do … a big dig on the Main Street in Palmerston,” he said. “The county has it on its books for roughly 2024-25 somewhere in there… so that’s going to be a huge project that’s going to be on the books, soon.” The acting CAO also pointed out the Whites Road reconstruction project has

WEEKLY WAG

‘‘

By Patrick Raftis

“It is the set of the sails, not the direction of the wind that determines which way we will go.” - Jim Rohn

been “pushed off and pushed off and pushed off,” but is now becoming more of a priority due to planned expansion at the Royal Terrace long-term care facility. The prioritization of the Main Street and Whites Road projects are examples of the fluidity required in five-year planning, Harrow explained. “These are projections, but it can change from year to year,” he stated. “Because quite frankly we’ve never seen this fast of growth in Minto as we have in the last few years, which is great, but it throws our five-year plan into kind of a mixer and we spin it around and pull it back out again.” Capital purchases planned in 2020 on local recreation facilities include: new tables for the Clifford Community Hall, tires for the Harriston Olympia, Palmerston ice

logos and lobby speakers. All arenas are slated to receive new computers in 2020. The Palmerston swimming pool is in need of new deck equipment (stairs, guard chairs, railing), the draft budget notes. In addition, new roofs are needed at the Harriston and Palmerston Train Stations, the underside of the pedestrian bridge in Palmerston Heritage Park is to be inspected and painted, and work remaining at the Palmerston Train Station deck is to be completed. Clifford fire hall renovations pegged at $100,000 are the largest item in the 2020 capital budget for Minto Fire. A presentation on the proposed operating budget for 2020 is planned at a special meeting on Jan. 23. The draft budget will be presented at a March 17 public open house.

We want your

CARS, Kenilworth SCRAP Auto Recyclers Inc. TRUCKS, FARM

519-323-1113 We sell quality used auto parts for cars & trucks

MACHINERY, etc. Scrap metal bins avail. (14, 20, 30 & 40 cu. yd.)

2 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Drayton and Missionary play to draw in 6-6 goalfest

Skaters celebrate the season - The Drayton Skating Club has been busy with Christmas and club activities recently. TOP: Santa Claus joined the skaters on the ice Dec. 12 and Star 5 Gold testing was conducted on Dec. 13. On Dec. 20 the club will host a Create a Skate Showcase featuring all Starskate level skaters. ABOVE: The club entered a Candyland-themed float in the Dec. 6 Drayton Santa Claus Parade. Submitted photos

s a m t s i r h C y r r e M

BETHEL 6 LISTOWEL 2 Bethel took the lead when Ian Martin scored on a rising wrist shot midway through the first period, assisted by Nathan Holland. Listowel tied the game in the second when Phil Shantz buried a rebound, assisted by Shayne Martin and Brad Gratz. Bethel took the lead with four quick goals early in the third. Garrett Martin scored two for the go-ahead goals and Ian Martin added two more to complete his hat trick. Assists went to Jim Wideman, Gavin Sauder (2), Matt Taylor, and Laverne Metzger. Listowel came back late in the game on a wrist shot goal by Shayne Martin. Phil Shantz assisted. However an empty-netter by Garret Martin assured the Bethel victory and gave him a hat trick as well.

DRAYTON 6 MISSIONARY 6 After three unanswered goals in the first it looked like Drayton was going to walk away with the game. Eric Decker scored a pair and Brandon Rumph scored the other. Colton Hoekstra, Rob DeWeerd, and Aaron Keunan drew assists. Missionary bounced back and scored three goals in the second to tie the game. Pat Landman, Dylan Bults, and Jamie Hoelscher scored the goals, assisted by Pat Downey, Landman, and Devin McGuire. Drayton regained the lead in the third with goals by Dave Mulder and Decker to complete the hat trick. Assists were earned by Darren Mohl, Decker, and Mike Hessels. Missionary once again stormed back to even the score with goals by Bults and Devin McGuire, assisted by Landman and Hoelscher.

ame Toys « G

PMD Arena

s « Puzzles

44 Arthur St. E Harriston (519) 338-5050

FREE PUBLIC SKATE ** Two Saturdays ** Dec. 21 - 6:30 pm - 7:50 pm Dec. 28 - 6:30 pm - 7:50 pm

HOLIDAY HOURS

9:30am, Sr Development Black vs Central Perth 9:30am, Sr Development Orange vs Central Perth 10:30am, Atom LL Black vs Atom LL Orange

Brokers for all lines of insurance 9 Wellington St. S., Drayton www.secureinsurance.ca Call for a quote

edgemutual I N S U R A N C E C O M PA N Y

Merry Christmas

5:30pm- 6:20pm, Stick and Puck

Consider us first!

6:30pm – 7:50pm, Public Skating Sponsored by Edge Mutual

Dec. 22

519.638.3091

9:00am – 9:50am, Stick and Puck 12:45pm, Atom LL Orange vs Listowel Cyclones Red 2:00pm, Atom R vs Blyth-Brussels

Licensed brokers for

3:15pm, Major Novice R vs Mt Forest Rams 7:00pm – 8:20pm, Public Skating Garett Hawkins

SPONSORED BY:

Dec. 21-23: 9 - 8 | Dec. 24: 7 - 2 | Dec. 25-26: Closed

PMD ARENA SCHEDULE Dec. 21

Submitted by Willard Metzger

GIFT CARDS Now Available

FIND US ON FACEBOOK @kiddingaroundtoys

519.638.2319 7481 Sideroad 17, RR#1 Alma

A penalty in the third gave Hoelscher a short-handed goal for a Missionary lead, but DeWeerd scored a power play goal to secure the tie. COMMUNITY 2 FLORADALE 2 Nick Martin started things off for Floradale with a wrist shot goal from the right side boards, assisted by Kendrick Frey. Floradale added the insurance goal in the second with a goal by Brandon Martin, assisted by Ryan Weber and Andrew Martin. Community came back for a goal late in the third with Brady Lane burying a rebound. Assisted by Dustin Bults and Kevin Gingrich. Community kept the pressure and was rewarded when a slap shot from the left faceoff circle by Kevin Gingrich sent the puck to the back of the net and tied the game. Assisted by Brady Lane and John Horst.

John Hagarty

EVENT CALENDAR

Dec. 24

11:00am – 12:20pm, Public Skating Sponsored by Township of Mapleton Come Skate with the Mayor

Dec. 26

1:30pm – 2:50pm, Public Skating Sponsored by Drayton Fresh Mart

Dec. 28

11:05am, Jr Development Black vs Minto

Dec 20

Euchre, 7:30pm at the Drayton Legion. Everyone welcome. Light lunch to follow. $5 admission.

Dec 22

Christmas Pageant and Communion, 10:30am at Drayton United Church, 34 Main St. E. Drayton.

Dec 24

Christmas Eve Service, 7pm. Join us for an hour long service of Christmas music & the Christmas story. Whites Road Pentecostal Church, Harriston.

Dec 24

Community Mennonite Fellowship Christmas Eve service, 7pm. 109 Wellington St. S. Drayton.

Dec 24

Christmas Eve Family Service, 7pm at Drayton United Church, 34 Main St. E. Drayton

Dec 24

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, 7:30pm at Drayton Reformed Church.

Dec 25

Christmas Day Worship Service, 10am, Christian Reformed Church of Drayton, 88 Main St. E. Drayton.

Dec 25

Christmas Day Service, 10am, Drayton Reformed Church across from Drayton Heights School.

Dec. 30

Dec 25

Join us for a time of fellowship & a traditional Christmas meal at our 4th annual community Christmas dinner at Clifford Community Centre, 1pm. All welcome. No charge. Reserve your spot for dinner: Jean, 519-505-5914.

4:00pm – 5:20pm, Public Skating Sponsored by Drayton Dental

Jan. 3

4:30pm – 5:20pm, Stick and Puck

11:05am, Jr Development Orange vs Minto 5:30pm – 6:20pm, Stick and Puck 6:30pm – 7:50pm, Public Skating Sponsored by Edge Mutual

Dec. 29

9:00am – 9:50am, Stick and Puck 2:00pm, Atom R vs Mt Forest Rams 3:15pm, Major Novice LL vs Listowel Cyclones Red 7:00pm – 8:20pm, Public Skating

5:30pm-6:50pm, Public Skating

39 ELORA ST. S., HARRISTON JOHN.NATER@PARL.GC.CA JOHNNATER.CA 519-338-3589 1-866-303-1400

Have a

s a m t s i r h C y r Mer and a

Happy ! r a e Y w e N

38 McGivern St., Moorefield | 7am-7pm

DECEMBER 19, 2019 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | 3

Centrepiece event aids Rotary club fundraising Valued Contributors - A Long Time Service Award is presented to Lloyd and Shirley Franklin by president John Klaassen, left, at the Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society’s annual general meeting on Nov. 29. Photos by Sue Hogenkamp Outstanding work - John Foster receives the Millennium Award from Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society treasurer Arlie Zantinge at the Annual General Meeting on Nov. 29.

Prolific participant - The Ladies Directors trophy is presented to Helen Moffat by Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society president John Klaassen at the society’s annual general meeting on Nov. 29. Moffat earned the greatest number or points within the Leisure Crafts, Pickles and Preserves, and Culinary categories at this year’s Drayton Fair. Beneath the soil - The Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society’s guest speaker at the annual general meeting on Nov. 29 was crop science PhD student Meaghan Mechler, who talked about what lies beneath the soil. Mechler is the recipient of one of two academic scholarships offered by the society this year. This is the first year that scholarships have been offered to Mapleton residents in post secondary agricultural education programs, prompting the theme for the 2020 fair, Cultivating Excellence.

Safety first - Dennis Craven, left, accept a cheque for $1,000 on behalf of the Farm and Home Safety Association from Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society president John Klaassen at the agricultural society’s annual general meeting on Nov. 29. The funds were a portion of the proceeds from the society’s ATV raffle.

transient traders to display or carry a license and produce it upon request; - prohibits door-to-door sales between 9pm and 9am Monday to Saturday and at all times on Sundays and statutory holidays; and - sets fines to help recover some of the costs of enforcement. The bylaw also regulates the installation and maintenance of clothing donation boxes. “Donation boxes have been a bit of an issue the last

couple of years, with people coming in and they’re not registered charities, they’re just people who want to put a box in to collect clothing and make a profit,” said Forbes. “So we’ve got some requirements for them to do that.” The bylaw requires donation box operators to demonstrate an affiliation with a registered charity, adhere to size limitations, empty boxes weekly and “keep the boxes in good repair so they don’t make the town look messy,” said Forbes. Councillor Judy Dirksen

Christmas from all our families at

Maureen, Kim, Lisa and Tasha

Valued Volunteer - The recipient of the Achievement Award at the Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society’s AGM on Nov. 29 was Lynn Flewwelling. President John Klaassen praised the 4-H leader for her outstanding contribution to the Drayton Fair.

asked how the bylaw would impact roadside stands selling fruit, vegetables, maple syrup and other food items. “You can sell food that you grown on your farm, at your farm,” said Forbes, noting any sales other than on a resident’s own property would require licensing and other requirements. Forbes noted vendors at the Minto Farmers Market or at town-run special events would be exempt from bylaw requirements. Councillor Jean Anderson suggested regular roadside

vendors be notified of the change as, “We’ve allowed them to do it for years.” Dirksen said she anticipates anyone unknowingly violating the bylaw for a first offense would likely be given a warning. Forbes stressed, “The biggest problem is the door-todoor sales. We’ve got no way to really control it.” In order for the doorto -door provisions to be enforced, Anderson noted, “people are going to have to call you and complain.” “They do,” said Forbes.

Remember The Story On that night long ago in Bethlehem, Jesus came into our world and our hearts. Thank you for your support in 2019. David & Karen Martin

& Family and all the staff at

Stirton Construction Ltd.

519-638-5462

Merry

to all of our friends and customers… may the blessings of this holy season rest upon you!

Bylaw updates regulations on transient traders » FROM PAGE 1

DRAYTON - Organizers are calling the Drayton Rotary Centrepiece workshop on Dec. 5 “a night full of fun, laughter and creativity as a group of ladies worked under the wonderful help from the staff of Blooms on Main.” Club officials state, “Thanks again to everyone who came out to support our fundraiser to raise money for the accessible washroom we are building in ABC park. “The Drayton Rotary Club thanks everyone who continuously supports our fundraisers that we put back into the community betterment.”

For unto you is born this day Luke 2:11 in the city of David a saviour, which is Christ the Lord

Joy to All Wishing you and your Family a Very Merry Christmas & God’s Blessing in the New Year. Thank you for your support in 2019! BROUWER SERVICE CENTRE 53 McGivern St. Moorefield, ON 519-638-3054

Larry, Henry & Sonia, Tom, Dale, Pat, Richard, Debbie, Ivanka & Casey

May the

Happy s y a d i Hol from

Hair Daze

20 Wellington St. South, Drayton

519.638.3025

Peace and Hope of Christ’s birth

A very Merry Christmas and a hearty thank you to all our customers J. DAVID EVELEIGH RENOVATIONS DAVID & CATHY EVELEIGH

be with you, now and in the days ahead. From our family to all of you, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR

From C. Spaling Carpentry Charlie, Lorrie and family and Chris.

4 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019 THE

COMMUNITY NEWS Published by W.H.A. Publications Limited P.O. Box 252, Fergus, Ontario, N1M 2W8 905 Gartshore Street, Fergus Telephone 1-844-843-5410 Fax 519-843-7607 drayton@wellingtonadvertiser.com Published on Thursdays Deadline: Monday at 10am Subscriptions $58.79 plus HST in Canada

Ontario Community Newspaper Association

Canadian Community Newspaper Association

Publisher: Dave Adsett Editor: Chris Daponte Reporters: Patrick Raftis | Aryn Strickland Sales Representatives: Faye Craig | Crystal Seifried

Circulation: 7,519

Graphic Designer: Alicia Roza GENERAL POLICY: Persons wishing information regarding circulation, rates and additional service, etc. should feel free to contact the staff. The Publisher accepts responsibility for claims and honours agreements made by himself or by regular staff on his behalf. No responsibility is accepted for actions of persons not in the employ of the paper, or otherwise over whom the Publisher has no control. All advertising accepted is done so in good faith. Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of typographical error, that portion of the advertising space occupied by the erroneous item, together with a reasonable allowances for signatures, will not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisements will be paid for at the applicable rate. In the event of a typographical error advertising goods or services at a wrong price, goods or services may not be sold. Advertising is merely an offer to sell, and may be withdrawn at any time.

YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER

EDITORIAL By Patrick Raftis

Converted carols Readers often tell me they look forward each year to my annual offering of politically-oriented updates of classic Christmas carols. (Note: This is not true. No one ever mentions it. But I get a kick out of writing them and I needed a lead in). And so, without further ado, feel free to sing-along with this election-year lament: God rest ye Liberal gentlemen Let nothing you dismay Remember Stephen Harper had to operate this way Reduced to a minority your power has gone astray Oh tidings of electoral reform Electoral reform Oh tidings of electoral reform Or, perhaps your concerns this holiday season are more Conservative in nature? Hence: Have a holly Tory Christmas But if your name is Andrew Scheer, Things went sour pretty fast Didn’t make it through the year. But now who will lead the party? They often seem to get it wrong, Peter McKay has had his day, Paging Michael Chong? To those of you still reading, thanks for the indulgence. Have a Merry Christmas and wonderful new year!

TO THE EDITOR Savings will result from contract cancellations Dear Editor: Patrick Raftis in his Dec. 12 editorial takes issue with Ontario environment minister Jeff Yurek for cancelling hundreds of renewable energy projects which will, he says, cost Ontario citizens $230 million. The simple fact is, cancelling these projects will save Ontarians money ... lots of money. The wind power projects alone will mean that hundreds of millions that would have been added to our electricity bill will now be saved. The contract costs for the three wind power projects in southwestern and eastern Ontario would have cost us more than $500 million. Wind power is intermit-

tent and produced out of phase with demand; in fact, much of Ontario’s power generated from wind is surplus and sold off at a loss to neighbouring jurisdictions or “constrained” - paid for but not used. Raftis quotes the auditor general but fails to mention she also said that contracts for Ontario’s renewable power projects let by the previous government were significantly above market rates and that Ontarians have overpaid by $9.2 billion. The reality is we weren’t going to get out of contracts without paying something, but the savings will be meaningful to everyone. Jane Wilson, President, Wind Concerns Ontario, Ottawa

Memorial bursary - The Harriston-Minto Agricultural Society selected Madison Armstrong of Clifford as the recipient of the society’s Donna Charters Memorial Bursary. Linda Campbell, Share the Wealth lottery convenor, presented the $400 bursary to Armstrong at the Norwell District Secondary School commencement on Nov. 1. Armstrong is attending University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. Submitted photos

LOVERS OF THE

BIRDS American white pelican

The striking American white pelicans may be seen in their summer range north of Lake Superior, along lower Great Lake shorelines, Hudson Bay or interior western Canada and U.S. Thousands of pelicans breed in colonies on Lake of the Woods and Lake Nipigon. If you are a “snow-bird” you are likely to have seen these fascinating birds. Wintering range includes Florida, along southern coastal states, Mexico and California. ID: Sexes alike. Very large, stocky, white bird; notable long, hook-tipped orange bill/pouch which is large, fleshy and attached to lower mandible. Pouch is flat when deflated. Black primary and secondary wing feathers; short tail; naked orange skin patch around eye. In late winter, during breeding a small unique horny knob grows on upper mandible and pale yellow crest on back of head. This is shed after egg laying. Non-breeding and immature white plumage is tinged brown. Size: 50”/1.4m long; 9ft”/2.8m wide. Larger than bald eagle. They weigh over 20 lbs. Status: in Ontario rare, post-breeding wanderer. Pelicans are extremely shy, sensitive to being disturbed, and may abandon nest. Habitat: large lakes or rivers. Nesting: colonial. Feeding: surface dips for small fish and aquatic organisms. Small groups often feed cooperatively by corralling fish into large concentrations. The flexible bill is used underwater, where it balloons open to catch fish. In a single scoop a pelican can hold up to 12 litres of water and fish. As the bill is lifted water drains out of pouch. Voice: generally quiet; pig-like grunts by adults; nestling grunts with piercing screams. Flight: because of their bulk they need a lengthy run to become airborne. They soar gracefully in flight at great heights. Head is hunched back on shoulders. Bones are hallow and very light, helping in flight and buoyancy in water. They are one of the heaviest of flying birds. Flight is in a V-shape or line. Conservation: low concern, rebounding. N.A. population 120,000+. Resources: Birds of Ontario, Audubon, Peterson, Golden, National Geographic Reference Atlas, Cornell Lab. Gary and I wish you a Blessed Christmas and New Year. Until next month/year, Susan Warren

Horticulture bursary - The Harriston and District Horticultural Society recently announced Emily Smart of Moorefield is the recipient a $500 bursary. This bursary is presented to a graduating student from Norwell Secondary School who is continuing his or her education in a horticulture-related field. Smart is studying natural resource management and forestry at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay.

Minto building activity consistently strong MINTO – Building activity has remained consistently strong in Minto throughout 2019, reports the town’s chief building official (CBO). “This would be the tenth report in a row I get to give you guys some good news,” CBO Terry Kuipes told Minto councillors on Nov. 19. “The construction activity in October basically mirrored the same activity in Oct. 2018.” In October, the town issued 17 building permits worth construction for approximately $3.6 million, compared to 19 permits for construction valued at $3.8 million in October of 2018. Year to date the town has issued 188 building permits for construction valued at $33.8 million, while in 2018 193 permits for $32.1 million worth of building were issued by the end of October. The town has issued permits for 52 new residential units in 2019, “which exceeds what the county’s growth forecast was for Minto and we’ve got a couple of months left,” Kuipers noted. The CBO pointed out the town’s 10-year average for the value of local construction is about $19.5 million, “so we’re about $14.3 million over that.” Among the highlights

Kuipers pointed to was issuance of a permit for a singlefamily dwelling in Clifford, which marks the last of a group of town-owned lots sold for development on Ann Street. “So we got 32 new houses there … because of decisions that council made,” said Kuipers. Dave mayor Deputy Turton said, “Some of the decisions that the council made I can tell you that … our staff had a lot of input into that and it wasn’t just us, it was a partnership between the council and the town staff.” In 2013, the town paid $440,000 to acquire a swath of former rail land stretching from Clifford to Greenbush as part of the settlement for a legal action launched against the town by a developer in 2008. The property acquired in the transaction included all the former CN Rail lines within the village of Clifford, including 32 lots on Ann Street, the rail line north of Ann Street to West Heritage, and the line south of Clifford almost to Greenbush. At the time, council agreed to keep enough land to develop a trail system and sell some lots over time to offset the land acquisition.

May the

Peace & Happiness of Christmas bless you & your family this year. from

PINE CORNER TREE FARM Jack & Diana Vos, Family and Staff

DECEMBER 19, 2019 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | 5

Firefighter food donation Clifford Firefighter Association president Tyler Andrews and his son Sawyer presented a $500 cheque to the Clifford Food Bank committee on Dec. 2. They also brought boxes of food collected along the Santa Claus parade route. From left: Elizabeth Bott, Karen Dowler, Tyler Andrews, Sawyer Andrews, Don Senek, and food bank chair Bruce Shannon. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead

Wishing everyone a

Safeand Happy

Holiday Season MAPLETON MARTIAL ARTS Masonic Hall, 61 Wellington St S., Drayton 519-575-3865 | mapleton@CNGK.ca

Township of Mapleton

Community Information Page

7275 Sideroad 16, P.O. Box 160, Drayton, ON N0G 1P0 Phone: 519-638-3313, Fax: 519-638-5113,

Toll Free: 1-800-385-7248 www.mapleton.ca

Township of Mapleton Council & Staff would like to wish everyone a

S A F E & H A P P Y

Merry Makers Christmas - Carol Reiner, left, and Helen Kreller, right, were glad to have special guest Mrs. Claus join them for the Merry Makers Christmas party on Dec. 5 at Jamesway Manor in Clifford. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead

Merry Community hristmas C Christian School to you to purchase and your family surplus lands

SEE LAND » 10

Winter Parking

The Township of Mapleton’s Public Works Department works hard to ensure safe driving conditions on Township roads. During the winter months, we provide snow removal services on certain Township roads.

For this reason, on-street parking is prohibited between 2:00 - 6:00 a.m. from November 1st to March 31st as per Township By-law No. 5000-05, Section 9.10.

By Aryn Strickland MAPLETON - Council here approved transferring ownership of two unopened road allowances, declared surplus lands, from the township to Community Christian School on Nov. 26. Located at 35 High Street in Drayton, the two roads are already used by the school. One of the roads is currently used for staff parking while the other crosses through the middle of the school property, “extending directly over the playground,” the report states. The school’s principal/ chief operating officer initiated the process to transfer ownership of the land from the township. The objective of the school is to maintain control of the land into the future. “While the township’s policy specifically for selling land forming a closed highway refers to neighbours ‘purchasing the land to its middle line,’ in this instance the effect would be an unworkable and undesirable result,” read the report. Council waived the right of first refusal to purchase the land to its middle line normally afforded to abutting landowners. “I had a meeting with the principal of the school and brought this up a few months ago about working with the township about these lands and that’s why it’s been brought up today,” said Mayor Gregg Davidson.

ffice The O sed clo will be 5-27 Dec. 2 1. & Jan.

holsiedaasoyn!

charity. A time is a time of joy and he Christmas season u have had, and to look forward year yo wish you the to look back on the holiday season, we is Th . me co to ar ye to the e gift of love. May e gift of hope and th th , hip ds en fri of t gif and the love in this e comfort of home ss. the joy of family, th u peace and happine community bring yo & Marianne

- Gregg

MAYOR GREGG DAVIDSON

519-638-3313 ext. 060

gdavidson@mapleton.ca

Any vehicle interfering with snow removal operations or overhanging onto the street or sidewalk from driveways may receive a fine and/or be removed at the owner’s expense.

The Township of Mapleton asks for your cooperation with the following: • Avoid shoveling / plowing snow onto streets or across municipal roads to far side ditches, this is a Provincial Offence under the Highway Traffic Act • Keep snow piles low to avoid obstructing visibility of pedestrians and drivers • Do not park on the street overnight in the winter months

Out of the silence,

Music

Keep it Clear

If there’s a fire hydrant near your house, do your part to keep it accessible this winter.

Out of the darkness,

Light

Out of uncertainty,

Promise

Love

Try to clear snow and ice to make a wide enough perimeter around your fire hydrant for firefighters to work (about 3ft) including a path from the hydrant to the street.

was born that night

We are

grateful for your business

Merry Christmas from

G.L. CARPENTRY Ltd Ltd. and staff 519.638.5448

IMPORTANT DATES Sun. December 22

2:00 p.m.

Alma Santa Claus Parade

Tues. January 14

7:00 p.m.

Council Meeting

Tues. January 28

1:00 p.m.

Council Meeting

6 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Christmas plant care topic at horticultural society meeting

Eyes on Rotary - Clifford Rotary Club president Trish Palmer, centre, was encouraged by District Governor Tony Sheard, right, and his wife Sylvia Sheard to wear Rotary-themed glasses and share stories of doing good at the local club’s Nov. 5 meeting at Gramma Jo’s Restaurant in Clifford. Palmer and Sheard congratulated three Clifford Rotary members who received awards: Merle Freeman, Paul Harris Fellowship; Trish Ruetz, Paul Harris Fellow Plus One; and treasurer Karen Dowler, who was recognized for keeping track of the club through records. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead

HARRISTON The Harriston and District Horticultural Society got together at the Train Station on Nov. 27 to enjoy a potluck, conduct its annual meeting and give out awards. The station was festively decorated and the many poinsettias that brightened the room were given away at the end of the meeting. Special speaker Lina Calvert from North Wellington Co-op showed the group how to care for Christmas plants and get them to bloom again next year. District 7 director Kathy Bouma installed the society’s 2020 officers: president Jean Anderson, past president Sue Bridge, secretary Willa Wick, treasurer Joanna Steckle, and directors Dorelene Anderson, Alice Douglas,

Margaret Weber, Brenda Ortman, Linda Campbell, Lorna Collins, Lynn Collins, Marilyn Stemmler, Mary Anne Connell and new director Victoria Kingsley. Alice Douglas presented the awards for the year. Dorelene Anderson received the Rhoda Cameron Award for the Best Design at the May flower show. Sally Andrade received the Mildred Newman Memorial Award for Best Design at the August show. Linda Campbell earned the Golden Trowel Award for most points for the year, and Brenda Ortman the Silver Trowel for second most points in all the flower shows. Photos from the society’s photography competition were on display and the group thanks Rosie Krul

Christmas plants - Lina Calvert of North Wellington Co-op addressed Harrison and District Horticultural Society members on caring for Christmas plants when the group met on Nov. 27. Submitted photo from the Harriston Library, who set up a display with many books on a gardening theme.

Merry Christmas & Happ Happyy New Year

Wishing our friends and customers

a Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year

Merry Christmas and best wishes for the New Year.

The society’s next event will be a soup and sandwich luncheon on Jan. 16 at the Harriston United Church.

to you and yours

WOODS, CLEMENS, FLETCHER & CRONIN 1-800-461-9701 www.pettapiece.ca

Law Office

FLEWELLING AUTO & FARM SERVICE FLEWELLING FARM EQUIPMENT

9 MEMORIAL AVE., ELMIRA, 519.669.5101 26 WELLINGTON ST. S. DRAYTON, 519.638.5767

G DAY OPEN BOX|IN 10am-3pm December 26

Shop Local

A Holiday Message from Solid Waste Services

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year!

Daily Lunch Specials Friday, Dec. 20

Monday, Dec. 23

$6.99

Cheeseburger & Wedges

We’re sponsoring a

BBQ Ribs & Wedges

Dec. 24 - 26

Friday, Dec. 27

No lunch specials due to the Christmas Holiday

$5.99

Free Public Skate!

December 26, 1:30-2:50pm Drayton Arena

Quiche & Wedges

HOLIDAY CLOSURES

All County of Wellington Waste Facilities will be closed on Wednesday, December 25, Thursday, December 26 and Wednesday, January 1.

CURBSIDE COLLECTION

Both Wednesday, December 25 and Thursday, December 26 rescheduled to Saturday, December 28. Wednesday, January 1 rescheduled to Saturday, January 4.

NATURAL TREE COLLECTION

Natural trees will be collected in urban curbside collection areas the week of Tuesday, January 7 on your regular collection day. They will be accepted free of charge at all County waste facilities December 27 to January 31 during regular business hours. Food Bank donations are gratefully accepted. Kinsmen curbside collection on Saturday, January 4 in Drayton, Moorefield, Elora, Fergus and Salem. (Attach Food Bank donations to base of tree)

r to store closing. Hot food case closes 2 hrs prio

Drayton

Garbage and Recycling Holiday Changes

90 WELLINGTON ST. S, DRAYTON | 519.638.2041

HOURS: Monday-Wednesday 8-8, HOURS EFFECTIVE MARCH 26: Thursday-Friday 8-9, Saturday 11-5 Mon-Wed 8-8, Thu-Fri 8-9, Sat8-6, 8-6,Sunday Sun 11-5

Drayton Freshmart

519.837.2601 1.866.899.0248 www.wellington.ca/sws ALTERNATE FORMATS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. OM Official Mark of The Corporation of the County of Wellington.

DECEMBER 19, 2019 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | 7

County scraps planned minimum garbage bag fee

Community carolling - The Grey Wellington Theatre Guild Musical Troupe performed seasonal songs prior to a community Christmas carolling session hosted by the guild at the Harriston Town Hall Theatre on Dec. 15. Photo by Patrick Raftis

GUELPH – Wellington County has scrapped a plan to implement a minimum charge for bagged garbage brought to its landfill site and transfer stations. A new user fee structure was approved by county council on Nov. 28. Tipping fees will rise from $80 to $97.50 per tonne in the new year, but all other fees will remain the same. That includes the $2-per-bag rate for bagged garbage brought to waste facilities.

Library services outlined at recent Seniors Centre for Excellence luncheon By Bonnie Whitehead CLIFFORD - Seniors’ Centre for Excellence program coordinator Helen Edwards welcomed close to 50 for the lunch and learn program on Nov. 15 at Knox United Church here. Edwards noted the passing of a regular program participant Barbara Harris praising her as a terrific volunteer who chose to work quietly in the community. Wellington County Library Clifford branch supervisor Kayleigh Armstrong noted the library van travels daily between the 14 branches making it possible to borrow a book from another library and have it delivered to Clifford in a mat-

Lunch and learn - Seniors’ Centre for Excellence coordinator Helen Edwards, right, thanked, from left: occupational therapist Olivia Fischer, volunteer Faye Douglas, and library branch supervisor Kayleigh Armstrong for their participation in the lunch and learn program on Nov. 15 in Clifford. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead ter of days, providing access to books, movies, magazines and more.

Merry Christmas! from the team at

“We try to reach seniors with new programs,” she said and encouraged everyone to

drop in the last Wednesday of each month for the activity games night. The library will have access to Downton Abbey on DVD Dec. 17. In January, it will be hosting an information session regarding preparing tax returns. Occupational therapist Olivia Fischer shared tips on how to prevent falls and keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe in your home. She quizzed the crowd and noted falls are the leading cause of injuries to older adults in the home mainly resulting in hip fractures. She identified risks and remedies in each room of a home starting with good outdoor lighting, railings, clear walkways, and slip resistant

ay we take this time to send you all our brightest greetings for the Christmas season, and our sincere thanks for your kind support.

Clean Field Services Thank you for Your Business!

steps and decks. She recommended removing clutter and scatter mats from hallways and coffee tables from the living room, banning step-stools from the kitchen and storing items in easily accessible spaces, using reaching tools, and keeping stairways clear. In the bedroom, Fischer suggested tidying the laundry, removing area rugs, putting lamps on both sides of the bed, and keeping a phone nearby. In the bathroom, she advocated installing grab bars, handheld shower heads, nonslip mats and considering a toilet to meet height needs, and installing a grab bar. Fischer encouraged everyone to fill out and display a File of Life on their

refrigerator in case of emergencies. A VON fall prevention handout was given to everyone with an invitation to join a SMART exercise class or view the classes on Wightman Telecom channel 6 Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 7, 8 and 9am. Contact the VON at 519-3232330 if interested. The next lunch and learn meeting on Dec. 20 at Knox will feature Willa Wick’s presentation on Christmas Eve traditions around the world. To register for lunch or the presentation, call 519-6381000. The presentation is free, but the dinner will cost $12. Organizers note if buses in north Wellington are cancelled, so is the program.

May peace, joy and love fill your heart this

s a m t s i Chr

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from...

Jason, Cathy, Melanie &

Cal & Gerri Deen & family & staff

Jordan

www.jackfinancial.ca

cleanfieldsvc cleanfieldsvc cleanfieldsvc cleanfieldsvc cleanfieldservices.ca 8th Drayton 519-638-3457 cleanfieldservices.ca cleanfieldservices.ca 7668Line 8th 7668 Line 8thDrayton Line Drayton 519-638-3457 519-638-3457 cleanfieldservices.ca 76687668 8th Line Drayton 519-638-3457

A Message from Solid Waste Services

Tipping Fee Increase Tipping fees for waste loads increase from $80.00 to $97.50 per tonne for waste materials as of January 1, 2020. From all the staff at

For more information, please contact Solid Waste Services at: T 519.837.2601 T 1.866.899.0248 www.wellington.ca/sws OM Official Mark of The Corporation of the County of Wellington.

Alternate formats available upon request.

8 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Maryborough students Shop with a Cop to aid Drayton Food Bank Shop with a Cop - Grade 5 and 6 students from Maryborough Public School took part in the annual Shop with a Cop program on Dec. 12. Students arrived at the Drayton Freshmart in cruisers and fire trucks with lights flashing and sirens blaring. The Moorefield Optimist Club and a number of local community members donated $1,200 to the event. The money was divided amongst 12 teams with the goal of purchasing as much food as possible with the $100 without going over their limit. RIGHT: Students who came the closest to the mark with Foodland representatives and Wellington OPP Constable Cheri Rockefeller. Officers and firefighters encouraged students to consider factors such as unit rate and items needed for the Drayton Food Bank in making their selections. Submitted photos

Get Your Smile Back! Unto you is born this day in the city of David

a Saviour, which is

Get Your Smile Back! Forest Denture Clinic GetMount Your Smile Back! Peter Feige DD, FCAD

MountForest ForestDenture DentureClinic Clinic Mount Your denture specialist

Tuesday, Wednesday & by appt. only on Saturday

Peter Feige DD, FCAD

• AllYour Dental Plans Accepted denture specialist • Full & Partial Dentures • All Dental Plans Accepted Tuesday, Wednesday • Problem Dentures • Full & Partial Dentures & Saturday (by appointment only) • Problem • Same DayDentures Repairs • Same Day Repairs 129 Main St. N., Mount Forest • Lab On Premises 129 Main St. N., Mount Forest • Lab On Premises 519-323-2331 • Over 3030Year’s Experience • Over Year’s Experience Luke 2:11 519-323-2331

Christ the Lord.

Merry Christmas

www.owensounddenturist.ca www.owensounddenturist.ca

PROOF OF YOUR AD Tuesday, Wednesday

Saturdayevery (by appointment only) TFN PROOF OF YOUR AD 12 &issue, for the April other week 312 columns x 129 3” - Main $189.00 + HST per issue for the April issue, every other week TFN The approaching of the Christmas season is a wonderful time for us to plus colour charge St. N., Mount Forest 519-323-2331 columns - $189.00 HST everyone per issue remember the friends and customers who make our jobs a pleasure3 all year x 3” would like to+ wish a www.owensounddenturist.ca plus colour charge long. Our business would not be possible without your continued support. PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR APPROVAL

MerryChristmas

AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

PLEASE REPLY WITH YOUR APPROVAL May this Christmas season and the New Year be filled with much joy, Thank you, SOON AS POSSIBLE. happiness, and success. We look forward to working with you in theAS coming andMichel a - Production Dept. Helen year and hope our business relationship continues for many years to come. R.R. 2, MOOREFIELD, ON N0G 2K0 | 519-638-3418 Thank you, Helen Michel - Production Dept. Happy Holidays from

Happy New Year

MAR-SPAN

Home Hardware Building Centre

Holiday Hours

BUILDING CENTRE

Dec. 24 .......... Open until 12pm Dec. 25, 26 & Jan. 1 ......Closed Dec. 31 ............ Open until 4pm

MAR-SPAN TRUSS INC.

Dec. 24 .......... Open until 12pm Dec. 25, 26, 31 ..............Closed January 1 .......................Closed

Balanced Books Bookkeeping Services Tracey Goulding, Bookkeeper

519.638.2206

balancedbookstg@gmail.com 63 Andrews Drive, Drayton

PLEASE Province launches READ: PLEASE dental program for READ: low-income seniors

Please check to make sure that the information is Marksure any errors on Please correct. check to make thisinformation copy and that the is email or fax QUEEN’S PARK - on Perthcorrect. Mark anytoerrors back (519) 843-7607 this copy and email or fax Wellington MPP or call (519)Randy 843-5410 back to (519) 843-7607 Pettapiece isby TUESDAY touting the NOON. or call (519) 843-5410 Ontario by government’s TUESDAY NOON. new IF WE DO NOT HEAR dental care for lowIF WEprogram DO NOT YOU, HEAR FROM YOUR AD FROM YOU, YOUR AD income seniors. WILL BE PRINTED WILL BE PRINTED “This new dental care THE NEWSPAPER IN THE IN NEWSPAPER program will help AS IT IS HERE. AS IT improve IS HERE. the health of seniors across DEADLINES: DEADLINES: Perth-Wellington,” Our deadlinesPettapiece for Our deadlines for stated in adasubmission press is release. ad3:00 submission is MONDAY AT P.M. “Oral health is extremely OurMONDAY deadline for AT 3:00 P.M. error corrections is important as we Our age.deadline Our govfor AT NOON. ernment TUESDAY is working to ensureis corrections Please feelerror free to call eligible seniors have to TUESDAY us to discuss your access ad.AT NOON. these services.” Please for feelourfree to call Ads are designed us toONLY. discuss your ad. The provincial governpublication ment isWespending approxidoAds not charge for are designed for our if you mately design $90 however million publicationannuONLY. would like a jpeg version of ally for the new Ontario your ad for social media a WeCare docharge not charge for Seniors Dental Program nominal $20 design however if you will apply. (OSDCP). It will provide free would like a jpeg version routine dental care for eligi- of your ad for social media a ble low-incomeThe seniors across nominal $20 charge the province. In doing so, the will apply. government expects to reduce the number of dental-related Fergus, Ont. The emergency department visits, Please sign your APPROVAL helping to end hallway health care. “With this program, we Fergus, Ont. are making sure Ontario’s low-income seniors can age Please sign your APPROVAL with dignity and enjoy A CANCELLATION FEE OF the quality of life they deserve,” said Premier Doug Ford. “This is another way applies toconcrete any ads cancelledisafter our government delivering

Wellington Advertiser

NOTE: $50

NOTE:

MONDAY AT 5PM.

SEE DENTAL » 11

A CANCELLATION FEE OF

$50

DECEMBER 19, 2019 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | 9

Youth volunteers - The annual youth volunteer appreciation party at the Drayton Festival Theatre was held recently, with pizza and cupcakes on the menu. LEFT: Youth volunteers gathered at the event. ABOVE: Gibson Sound & Vision of Waterloo sponsored Bluetooth headphones for the top 50/50 ticket seller, a prize earned by Claire Martin. Organizers thanked Mornington Communications, Paul Franklin Contracting, a la Mode, Drayton Pizza and Drayton Chop House for their prize donations. “The board of directors and staff of the theatre wish to thank the youth in our community for their hard work and dedication this season.” Submitted photo

Council revises list of groups given free event use of arena, community centres By Aryn Strickland MAPLETON - Council has voted to remove the Mapleton fire department from, and include the craft show committee in, the list of service groups and minor sports teams to receive free use of the PMD Arena and Maryborough Community Centre for events on Dec. 10. Councillor Michael Martin voiced concern over which groups were included. Following council’s initial discussion the township posted a press release that listed which service clubs and minor sports teams would receive the exemption. Among them was the Drayton and Moorefield firefighter associations. “The Mapleton Fire Department is already exempt because we don’t bill departments within the township, but the Chamber of Commerce and a historical society, were just question marks I have,” Martin said. Discussion also led to changing how groups receiving free use of the facility were qualified. “I believe if my memory serves me that the thought was that the groups that we’re acknowledging on this list are groups who fundraise for local initiatives and all of the money goes back into the local community. And this is council’s way of supporting those fundraisers. It’s not just any local nonprofit, that qualifies,” he said. Initially council discussed waiving fees for Moorefield Optimist Club, Drayton Kinsmen and Drayton Kinettes, Drayton Rotary, 100 Women Who Care Rural Wellington, Community Craft Show, Mapleton Chamber of Commerce, Drayton Minor Hockey, Drayton Moorefield Minor Ball, Moorefield Athletic

Association and Drayton District Figure Skating. In the press release the township also listed Drayton Rotary, Maryborough Optimist, the Drayton and Moorefield firefighters association, Optimist club of Alma and Palmerston Hospital GALA Committee. One of the groups Martin questioned was the Mapleton Chamber of Commerce. “I brought them up,” said Mayor Gregg Davidson. “They are there for our local businesses and if they want to have a chamber breakfast or any event that is bringing the businesses together, they need a location ... and I think the chamber [is] a good addition to this list.” Davidson confirmed that the fire department already uses the facilities for events for free. “I think originally we were talking about the fire associations - I don’t know if that is all part and parcel or if they were separate. So I think it was associations not the fire department that we had initially thought about putting on here,” he said. Staff had discussions with a representative of the craft association that was also on the original list. “They are not a not for profit ... After the conversations, they’re okay with coming to council and requesting it once they get a supporter, being a local group to support them, or go nonprofit before they come to us,” said Davidson. “I think I am likely the one that caused the confusion here with the press release when I added not for profit,” said CAO Manny Baron. “I guess what I really should have put in there is service groups and minor sports and exclude the not for profit description,” he said. Ottens said that to her the

important qualifier is whether a group contributes back to the community. “Like a church is a nonprofit but if my church is going to do something at the hall odds are it’s for its own benefit,” said Ottens. “So that’s how the Historical Society the 100 women care, and those other groups, they’re not service clubs but they contribute back to the community,” she said. “So that’s how they ended up on the list. So that’s the distinction. I guess as people start asking, can we be added, but that’s kind of the line in the sand that you have to draw.” Martin agreed with Ottens. “I’d be perfectly comfortable adding the craft show committee. We specifically talked about it at the last meeting added in its current form, however it is constituted I am perfectly fine with that. I was just confused the last two weeks trying to recall which groups we had pushed,” said Martin. “The only change I would suggest would be just scratching off maybe fire from this list,” he said. However, Davidson said he had an issue with the community craft show. “Not because of what they do, because we don’t know what their name is. They don’t have a specific name that they use, which makes it difficult to distinguish,” he said. Council voted to address the group as Community Craft Show Committee care of Mary Miller. Councillor Dennis Craven asked whether council should include the Alma Optimist Club. Davidson argued against it, saying the Alma Optimist Club already had its own hall for events.

Torchmen in Clifford - The Torchmen Quartet entertained with gospel favourites in concert recently at Knox United Church in Clifford. From left: Sandy MacGregor, Jeff Tritton, Mike Moran and Jon Hisey. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead

Severance creates access point for residential development By Patrick Raftis MINTO – Town council has recommended approval of a severance for an Elora Street property in Harriston to create access to a future residential development. A application from Mex Developments Inc. seeks County of Wellington Land Division approval for a severance of a property at 304 Elora Street South, Harriston. The applicant proposes to sever a .23 acre residential lot with an existing residential dwelling and retain a vacant lot. The proposed retained lot currently has a shed that will be removed creating a vacant 9.2ha (22.73ac) lot with 18 metres of frontage. The intent of the vacant lot is to create an access point

to a large property slated for future residential development. “I’m sure we’ll be hearing more about this in the future,” said deputy mayor Dave Turton. A report from building

assistant and planning technician Michelle Brown presented at the Dec. 3 council meeting indicates the proposed severed and retained lots will meet the minimum lot area and frontage requirements.

The 18th Annual

CKNX Radiothon has raised over

$85,000

towards Building Security Updates.

Thank You

These funds will help us to rekey and update the swipe card access for the entire hospital building.

There’s still time to help us reach our $100,000 GOAL

and receive a tax receipt for 2019.

Call the Foundation Office to make a donation before December 31st!

519-343-2030 ext. 87701

Thank you for helping us to keep

“Quality care close to home”!

10 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019

Christmas Worship Incredible Me By Laurie Langdon “So, God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them;

male and female he created them.” (Gen. 1:27) Whether you are Amish or Anglican, Assemblies of God or Atheist, Baptist or Buddhist, Catholic or Char-

Sharing God’s Grace & Hope 88 Main St. E, Drayton | www.draytoncrc.org 519.638.2032

Sunday, December 22

Regular Morning Worship, 10am

Wednesday, December 25

Christmas Day Worship Service, 10am

Sunday, December 29

Regular Morning Worship, 10am

Merry Christmas! CELEBRATING THE

BIRTH OF OUR SAVIOUR THIS CHRISTMAS Join us and Rev. Mark Laird Drayton United Church, 34 Main St. E., Drayton Christmas Pageant & Communion:

Sunday, Dec. 22, 10:30am CHRISTMAS EVE FAMILY SERVICE:

7pm

Christmas Come home for

CHRISTMAS WORSHIP Drayton Reformed Church

(across from Drayton Heights School) CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE December 24 @ 7:30pm CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE December 25 @ 10:00am REGULAR SUNDAY SERVICES are @ 10:00am throughout the holiday season

Community MENNONITE

Fellowship Please join us for our Christmas Eve Service at 7:00pm 109 Wellington St. S. Drayton

519-638-3012

ismatic, Christian Science or Church of God, or whether you are Islam, Jehovah’s Witness, Jewish, Mormon, New Age, Presbyterian, or Satanist, you, along with every person on the face of the earth, have been created in the image of God. And, whether you believe in him or not, you have been made by him and like him. • He is all powerful. Like him, you are powerful. You have power to make free choices, and influence people and outcomes. • He is always present everywhere, within and beyond the limitations of time and space. Like him, you are timelessly influential. Your presence will affect your world for years to come. • He is all knowing. Like him, you are highly intelligent. You have knowledge in remarkably numerous fields. • He never changes, but remains the same yesterday, today and forever. Like him, you are incredible, and this fact will remain changeless, no matter what state or condition you are in. • He is holy and separated from sin and its consequences, and he is set apart as sole ruler of the universe, and in him all things hold together. Like him, you are unique and set in a specific place, to fill a specific role which nobody else will fill. • He is righteous and just. Like him, you are inclusively right. All that you have control over, which may be a lot more than you think, is either right or can be made right: your family, your health, your economy, etc. • He is a lover who ascribes value to and recognizes the worth of every human being. Like him, you can be compassionate toward those who offend you and those whom you have power over. • He is gracious. Like him, you can be gracious with your resources and generous in acknowledging the accomplishments and gifts of others – as well as your own.

‘Good news of great joy for all, for you!’

• He is true. Like him, you can be firm, sure and stable. Not easily influenced, stunted or turned aside, you can possess an open mind that is free from pretense, imitation, falsehood or deceit. • He is love. Like him, you are of extreme value and highly significant, and you can bring this same value to others, some to whom no one else can. • He is joy. Like him, you are an enchanting person. You are able to experience, express and be animated by joy. You can also make others happy. • He is peace. Like him, you can be at peace, even in the midst of adversity or unfavorable circumstances. When you walk into a room, you can change its atmosphere. • He is patience. Like him, you can be patient. You can hold on to get things done, and be there again tomorrow. Simply show up every day and do what you need to do. • He is kind. Like him, you can be kind, even when it brings you no advantage or does not serve your purpose. You can be a relief to those who have been treated unkindly. • He is good. Like him, you are fundamentally good. Your smallest act makes the biggest difference. Even your mishaps come from good intentions, and you can learn from them. • He is faithful. Like him, you are there for those you care about, and you will be there again tomorrow, and again the day after that. You are a reliable friend to many. • He is gentle. Like him, you can be gentle. To those living in an exacting and tough world, you can be a breath of fresh air. • He is in perfect control. Like him, you are empowered. You can steer yourself in any direction, you can make everything serve, and you can empower others to be and become what they are capable of being and becoming.

Convenient - Alma Town Convenience owners opened an LCBO outlet within the store on Dec. 13. From left: Punam Patel, Dhru Patel, Ayush Patel, Hasmukh Patel, Mapleton Mayor Gregg Davidson, Kapila Patel. “We at Alma Town Convenience are excited to add another great service to Mapleton and the Alma community, thank you for all the support. If you are in the area and would like us to carry a certain product please come by our store and let us know,” said Dhru, who noted prices are the same as LCBO outlets and The Beer Store. Plans are in place to install a walk-in cooler. The store can be reached at 519-846-9622. Submitted photo

GRCA working alongside province on building flood resiliency in region The CAMBRIDGE Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) is working with the Province of Ontario on building flood resiliency with a focus on protecting people and property in the Grand River watershed. The report on flooding in Ontario conducted by Doug McNeil, Special Advisor on Flooding, outlines 66 recommendations to improve the province’s resiliency to flooding. review, his During McNeil spent time meeting with the GRCA and other conservation authority staff, as well as municipal and provincial government officials, soliciting feedback on flooding challenges and opportunities before touring various areas, including the flood mitigation infrastructure in Cambridge and Brantford. management “Flood remains a top priority for the GRCA with a focus on helping protect the lives and property of close to one million watershed residents,” says Samantha Lawson, Chief Administrative Officer of the GRCA. “We are grateful to have had the opportunity to provide input to Mr. McNeil, and we welcome his report shared by the Province. The recommendations reinforce the importance of a focused, collaborative approach in

flood preparedness and responsiveness.” A recent example of that collaboration involves the completion of bathymetric LiDAR surveys by the GRCA across large portions of the watershed. This technology creates a very detailed picture of the bed of local rivers and streams. When this information is combined with surface LiDAR data collected by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, it becomes an important tool in developing floodplain mapping in the watershed. This work will greatly enhance how quickly and effectively people and agencies can prepare for and respond to local flood emergencies. The flood management program in Ontario has a long history of success, the GRCA states in a Dec. 2 press release. Conservation authorities, the province and municipalities all have a role in flood mitigation and preparedness. The GRCA states it will review the report and continue to engage with its partners to improve flood resiliency and responsiveness throughout the Grand River watershed.

Land transferred » FROM PAGE 5

“They are planning some market expansion at the school there so acquiring these lands are helpful in their future.” The school has already paid $370 for a letter of interest to the township clerk to purchase the unopened roads. It will also pay a $5,000 deposit for the disposal of surplus lands including a non-refundable $500 administration fee.

Clifford lights up - A Light up the Street celebration was held in Clifford on Nov. 14. The event featured caroling, face painting and seasonal treats. Betty Sue Driedger, left, and Susan Shannon were serving up helpings of chili at the party. Photos by Bonnie Whitehead

and teacher, and it offered a ‘coach’ several days a week,” Festive fun - Students at Music for Young Children enjoy a piano-keyboard program for she said. submitted photo An initial goal for each of Christmas concert every year. children as young as 3½ in a Ms. Tanis’ students is to develgroup setting. DECEMBER 19, 2019 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | 11 “I loved the idea of group op the happy habit of practic- paper mittens for five happy spring. Of course, special holiAPARTMENT FORher RENT She encourages stu- practices. The mittens were days are incorporated into Ms. lessons, since it’s always more ing. by giving a placed on the studio wall in the Tanis’ MYC classes, such as fun to explore and learn in a dents TWOto practice BEDROOM, one “superfor duper” sticker group, regardless of the topic,” special Canada Music Week, bathroom rent in shape of the 5 Olympic rings. each week. explained Ms. Tanis. When the rings were com- Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Palmerston. Call for info “Practicing does not need to plete students enjoyed an Easter. Theme days are She also liked that it was a 519-574-5886. program that was tested, tried be long; 10 to 15 minutes a day Olympics music class. This planned as well. BDRM ADULT APT. past year Ms. Tanis encouraged she said. and true, being taught by more to1 start,” Throughout the year her Submit your classifieds for the Community News forMs.rent Moorefield. Tanis’increativity shines the students not only to prac- students participate in a than 800 teachers to over by calling toll free 1.844.843.5410, Fax 519.843.7607, Heat/hydro Incl., laundry by offering several tice but also to think of others, Christmas concert, and a spring 24,000 students on three differ- through or email: drayton@wellingtonadvertiser.com Deadline: Monday at 10am. incentives ent continents and touting extra facilitypractice on site. (No pets/ by practicing for pennies. Once recital and have the option to “Labour would include By Aryn Strickland year to ensure Canadian origins, being found- throughout in the Palmerston smoking).the Available mid- the pennies were all collected participate such items like removing students attain their musical they were donated to Camp Canada Music Week Festival ed in 1980. Dec. $800. 519-638-3054. the existing pea gravel MAPLETON Alma MYC’s mission statement goals. Once students have col- Bucko, for burn victims. and the Drayton Music at the park, removal and Community Recreation HELP WANTED TRADES AND SERVICES is to “provide the best quality lected enough stickers on their For the upcoming year she Festival. all the Association (ACRA) music education to young chil- “happy practice thermome- is planning two new incentives; replacement “Children areofso receptive borders, removal members are asking council dren by blending the pleasure ters,” they have a party. This a “Tree of Thanks” incentive to music that it makes of sensesod to where swings willtheir be for additional funding to use and the joy of music making year, to celebrate the 2010 around this the medium to spark Thanksgiving time and Farm Equipment, Hay, installed and accessibleinswing students earned with sound instruction.” Olympics, and adding developmulch their acomplete “Seed an Incentive” the creativity Straw, etc. to the area for accessibility set for Wallace Cumming

Recreation association asks council for additional labour funding to complete accessible swing set at Wallace Cumming Park

CLASSIFIEDS

MULDER'S TRUCKING

is looking for a

JOURNEYMAN PLUMBER AND 4th or 5th YEAR APPRENTICE Must be able to work alone with minimum guidance, knowledge in boilers and boiler systems and a G2 gas ticket is an asset but not required.

Email resume to gleesonplumbinginc@outlook.com TRADES AND SERVICES

HOME ENERGY SYSTEMS INC.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Your Oil, Propane and Natural Gas Experts SALES

SERVICE

I N S TA L L AT I O N

*** 24-hour Emergency Service ***

519-664-2008

DRAYTON, ONTARIO

11 Henry St. Unit 9, St. Jacobs

ECRA/ESA LIC 7004134

Servicing all your Electrical Needs

Residential/Custom Homes | Agricultural Commercial | Service | Generators robdeweerdelectric@hotmail.com 519.638.2229

GENERAL CONTRACTOR RESIDENTIAL DAVID MARTIN P 519-638-5462 8012 8th Line C 519-895-6234 RR#2 F 519-638-3833 Drayton, ON N0G 1P0 Check out our website: www.stirtonconstruction.ca

COMMERCIAL AGRICULTURAL NEW BUILDINGS RENOVATIONS

0HW]JHU·V519-510-4368 0HW]JHU·V +HDWLQJ &RROLQJ +HDWLQJ &RROLQJ

Take out Coffee $1.25

$$ CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW $$ Pay down other high interest debt! Bank turn downs, Tax or Mortgage arrears, Self-Employed, Bad Credit, Bankruptcy - We Can Help! Even in extreme situations of bad credit. Borrow: $50,000 $100,000

Pay Monthly: $268 $537

!!Decrease monthly payments up to 75%!! Based on 5% APR. OAC FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY NOW BY PHONE OR ONLINE: 1-888-307-7799 www.ontario-widefinancial.com ONTARIO-WIDE FINANCIAL 1801347inc FSCO Licence #12456 !! WE ARE HERE TO HELP !!

BUSINESS OPPS.

ATTN: ONTARIO INVENTORS!! Need Inventing Help? Call Davison!! Ideas Wanted! CALL DAVISON TODAY: 1-800-256-0429 OR VISIT US AT: Inventing.Davison.com/Ontario

3 Hilwood Drive Moorefield ON N0G 2K0 519-638-3039

519.638.5715 Dental program taniscowan.myc@sympatico.ca for low-income * Music Pups also available seniors launched

B is

Lu (W

GR IN

MON 519

» FROM PAGE 8 HOME OWNER LOANS FOR ANY PURPOSE!!

LARGER AMOUNTS AVAILABLE

195 Main Street, Palmerston ON N0G 2P0 519-343-2420

BODYWORKS FAMILY FITNESS

0012-836 )915(

TOTAL

to all of the playground and Park. swing area. And then trucks Project coordinator GENERAL MULDER'S TRUCKING 519.638.3682 519.301.6867 Amanda Reid came to to haul that material away,” CONTRACTOR explained Reid. council on Nov. 26 asking for FITNESS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Marlene Councillor an in-kind donation to cover RESIDENTIAL 1 Year and 6 Month Memberships Ottens asked why the ACRA the cost of labour, still to be Visit Day Passes Available additional SALES & INSTALLATION was requesting determined,12 to see theand project COMMERCIAL Full Co-ed Gym, 30 Minute Circuit 24 HOUR SERVICE funds. completed. Classes for All Ages, Personal Training DAVID MARTIN PLtd. 519-638-5462 “Within your budget ... In total the project is AGRICULTURAL 8012&8th Line Air-conditioning 89 Wellington St. S., DRAYTON there is $5,000 there to remove expected to cost over $25,000. C 519-895-6234 RR#2 N0G 1P0, (519) 638-2100 NEW •BUILDINGS topsoil and add mulch and The township has already Furnaces Fireplaces Drayton, ON www.bodyworksdrayton.ca F 519-638-3833 then existing playground, supported the project by Hot Water Tanks • HRV • Barbecues N0G 1P0 RENOVATIONS you have $6,500 to remove the awarding bodyworks@execulink.com the 50/50 funding info@metzgerheating.ca pea gravel and add mulch. in the amount of $5,000 to the So is that not the labor to do ACRA. those jobs?” she asked. The township has also Commercial Residential Reid told council those alloted an additional $10,000 KLAASSEN MECHANICAL costs were not related to the within the capital budget. “A nostalgic taste installation labour butofwere A further $7,000 was PLUMBING thecosts past...into tomorrow” the for the materials donated by a community Serving Mapleton Township & Area themselves. member and an additional Phone 638-2106 “Those numbers are not $3,000 from the Alma labour related at all. They’re Optimist Club. • Repairs • Hot Water Heating • Water Softeners In recent conversation actual materials,” said Reid. According to a report, with the township’s public “FREE ESTIMATES” taxes Wallace Gift certificates available local farmer works department, Reid said CALL FOR EXPERT SERVICE included Cumming donated 25 acres of the21 organization realized Wellington St., S. Drayton land in 2006 for the purpose funding for labour has not Moorefield, Ont. (519) 638-2106 519-638-2001 of building a park. been accounted for. “Since that time, many park development Discover the Joy of MYC projects with have been completed: walking FREE Summer Try it Classes! trail, children’s playground, picnic shelter, wetland Sunrise (ages 2-4) boardwalk, community EXTEND YOUR REACH - ADVERTISE PROVINCIALLY OR ACROSS THE COUNTRY! MYC Classes (ages 3-9) centre, toboggan hill, beach TM ed.org For more information contact your local community newspaper or visit www.networkclassiﬁ volleyball court, labyrinth To and register, contact memory arboretum,” the FINANCIAL SERVICES MORTGAGES report states. Tanis Cowan

child ops moto conf Chil a gra sibli well T prog child Sunb towa Moo is fo three grate rhyth and c child sion. P class

FREE Inventor’s Guide!!

on our commitment to end hallway health care and cut LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENTS hospital wait times.” AND “By providing seniors with access to quality dental CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT NOW!!! care and keeping them out of 1st, 2nd, 3rd MORTGAGES hospitals, this new program Debt Consolidation "Providing Refinancing, Renovations Quality Transportation is a key part ofServices” our plan to Tax Arrears, No CMHC Fees end hallway health care,” $50K YOU PAY: said Minister of Health $208.33 / MONTH Elliott. 23 Wellington St.Christine Drayton, ON“Ontario is (OAC) building a connected system No Income, Bad Credit 519-638-3395 www.cherreybuslines.com Power of Sale Stopped!!! of care that supports all Ontarians throughout their BETTER OPTION MORTGAGE health care journey.” FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL TODAY TOLL-FREE: “I know many constituents have been inquiring with my 1-800-282-1169 office about this program, www.mortgageontario.com since we announced it in (Licence # 10969) budget 2019,” said Pettapiece. “I am glad to see it is finally launching.” ADVERTISING Ontarians aged 65 and over with an income of $19,300 or less, or couples with a combined annual income of $32,300 or less, who do not have dental benefits, will qualify for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program. REACH MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS IN ONTARIO WITH ONE EASY CALL! The government estimates 100,000 low-income Your Classified Ad or Display Ad would appear in weekly newspapers each week across seniors will benefit annually Ontario in urban, suburban and rural areas. from this program once fully implemented. The new For more information Call Today 647-350-2558. dental care program will be available through public health units, including some WANTED mobile dental clinics. WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO EQUIPMENT. Eligible seniors can apply 40 years or older. Ampliﬁers, Stereo, Reto the program online at cording and Theatre Sound Equipment. ontario.ca/SeniorsDental, or Hammond Organs, any condition. CALL TollFree 1-800-947-0393 / 519-853-2157. by picking up an application form at a public health unit.

Since 1953

“Co

N A

12 | THE COMMUNITY NEWS | DECEMBER 19, 2019

VINYL BLOWOUT

/ SQ FT

REG 3.99

eyes of visitors with usergenerated content, RTO4 officials state in a press release. The organization is hopeful its challenge will not only create shareworthy photo opportunities that leverage visitor engagement, but also increase visitation to key destinations, businesses and events. “The ideas themselves can be simple, but at the same time they can be very dramatic and engaging,” Gardi says. “Each idea should have a clear sense of place. We want people to know exactly where pictures shared by visitors were taken so they are inspired to experience it for themselves.” RTO4, one of 13 regional tourism offices established by the Ministry of Tourism Culture and Sport in the province of Ontario, provides leadership and support to the tourism economy in Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

SAFE

SEE THINGS YOU DON’T SEE.

519-638-9990 | www.decisiondrivers.ca

NEW! SPC CLICK VINYL

$ 99

$ 37

4.5MM THICK!

PAD ATTACHED

FROM

/ SQ FT

REG 4.99

K TOC

FROM

/ SQ FT

REG 5.99

K TOC

IN S

RIGID CORE VINYL PLANKS

9”W x 5’LONG CLICK PLANKS

$ 97

$ 99

100% WATERPROOF

6MM THICK - AC5

FROM

/ SQ FT

REG 4.99

K TOC

/ SQ FT

REG 6.99

IN S

MODERN CLICK VINYL TILES FROM

FROM

K TOC

IN S

Decision Drivers of Canada

/ SQ FT

REG 4.29

K TOC

¢ $167

DRIV

FROM

IN S

SPC RUSTIC CLICK VINYL

$ 97

100% WATERPROOF

K TOC

/ SQ FT

REG 5.79

TRAVERTINE LOOK

SUN

9-9 9-9 9-6 10-5

LUXURY CLICK VINYL PLANKS

IN S

ects. Applications will be accepted in two streams: one for destinations (including Destination Marketing Organizations, BIAs, Chambers of Commerce) and one for individual tourism-facing businesses, events and tour operators. At least one winner will be selected for each stream. Destinations can apply for up to $15,000, while individual businesses can apply for up to $5,000. Applications are due by Jan. 15, 2020. RTO4 plans to announce the winning ideas in February 2020 and expects the projects to be rolled out as early as the spring. More details about the Shareable Moment Challenge can be found at https://rto4.ca/ shareable-moment-challenge. A growing number of highly successful tourism destinations are coming up with creative ways to widely tell their stories through the

SAT

LUXURY CLICK VINYL PLANKS

6MM THICK!

KITCHENER - Montreal has musical, light-up seesaws that have earned a top spot on the must-see list of visitors. Toronto’s famous letters outside city hall have been the backdrop for countless social media posts that reach across the globe. Brockville is carving out a name for itself on Instagram by adding an eye-catching light show to Canada’s firstever railway tunnel. What can the tourism industry in Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington do to capture the imaginations of visitors and get them to help spread the word about what makes the destination so special? That’s what RTO4 – an organization that supports the region’s tourism economy – is trying to find out through a new initiative. The “Shareable Moment Challenge” invites members of the industry – destinations, businesses and operators – to come up with ideas for their own shareworthy moments that will make visitors and residents stop, take a picture with their phone or camera and share it with the world on social media. Winning proposals will receive investment from RTO4 to transform them from ideas into reality. “We’re asking people to be bold and creative. We really want them to think out of the box,” says Andrea Gardi, RTO4’s director of projects and operations. “We’re looking for ideas that will capture the essence of a destination’s DNA – what makes them truly unique.” RTO4 will invest a total of $30,000 in selected proj-

FRI

K TOC S N I

FROM

Regional tourism agency launches Shareable Moment Challenge

THUR

K TOC S N I

$ 57

Breakfast for children’s wishes - Kaycee Quipp of Wroxeter shared a moment with Santa at the Breakfast with Santa held Dec. 7 at Gramma Jo’s Restaurant in Clifford. Proceeds from the annual event go to the Children’s Wish Foundation. Gramma Jo’s owners Jo-Anne and Jim Weltz expressed appreciation for donations of food for the breakfast and the staff and Clifford Rotarians who prepared and served the meals as well as gifts donated for a draw. Photo by Bonnie Whitehead

DECEMBER 19-22 4 DAYS ONLY!

5.5MM CLICK VINYL TILE

$ 59 FROM

/ SQ FT

REG 4.99

PAD ATTACHED

1362 VICTORIA ST N. KITCHENER

MON-FRI 9AM-9PM SAT 9AM-6PM SUN 10AM-5PM