03112011

(See “Environmental” on page 3)

The Town & Country Agent with the City Connections

Serving Mulmur & The Creemore Hills for 34 years

Ginny MacEachern B.A.

Broker 1-800-360-5821• 705-466-2607 • [email protected]

Visit My Website: www.ginnymaceachern.com

RCR Realty. Brokerage

EchoNews and views in and around Creemore

The creemore

Friday, March 11, 2011 Vol. 11 No. 10

Inside the Echo

Publications Mail Agreement # 40024973

Broomsticks and Hockey SticksFrom curling to hockey, NCPS students are having lots of fun on ice.

Page 12

10230 Highway 26 East, Collingwood(705) 444-1414 E-mail [email protected]

20092010

by Brad HoldenThe Consolidated Board Hearing regarding the Duntroon quarry expansion, nearing its one-year anniversary with at least a couple of months to go before it ends, was the scene of an interesting mini-drama earlier this week when Gord Miller, the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario, took the stand as a witness for the Clearview Community Coalition (CCC), the group that’s opposing the application.

Appointed by the Legislative Assembly, the Environmental Commissioner of Ontario is meant to act as the province’s “independent environmental watchdog,” monitoring and reporting on the government’s compliance with its Environmental Bill of Rights, as well as its success in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving greater energy conservation in Ontario.

Miller has held the position since 2000. While he was quick to confirm under cross-examination that his views do not reflect those of the provincial government or any political party, his testimony in front of the Board did offer an interesting perspective on the policy framework under which the quarry application is being tested. And as Miller personally possesses a Master’s Degree and a partially completed Ph.D. in plant ecology, he was also qualified by the Board as an expert in that realm and was able to answer several general questions regarding the effects that Walker Aggregates’ plan might have on the ecology of the site and the surrounding area.

Miller began by giving his opinions regarding a couple of terms that are integral to the Walker application. Up first was “interim use,” a term that the Aggregate Resources Act applies to quarries in general, implying that they exist only temporarily and eventually their sites are returned to their original state. But Miller pointed out that quarries typically are active for at least 60 years and, when prompted by CCC lawyer David Donnelly, agreed that, from the moment that the original Duntroon quarry began operations in 1965 to the hypothetical moment

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSIONER WEIGHS IN AT QUARRY HEARING“Independent watchdog” has general concerns with Walker expansion

WILDLIFE SIGHTING Local photographer Dennis Campbell was thrilled to get this shot of a Bald Eagle on Riverside Road between Creemore and Glen Huron last Saturday. Campbell was able to take several good photos before the big bird flew away down the river.

EcHo Briefs

Clocks go forward Saturday night!

HISTORY LOST Clearview Township lost an iconic building on Monday when Gord Kemp and Teza Lawrence’s 105-year-old barn, just south of Duntroon, burnt to the foundation. The couple lost about 20 sheep in the fire, but saved another two dozen, as well as a horse, a llama and a favourite goat. For the full story, see page 6.

Photo Teza Lawrence

Photo Dennis Campbell

The Clearview Council meeting scheduled for Monday, March 14 will feature two interesting public meetings: first, one pertaining to Creemore Springs’ new application to rezone two additional properties behind the existing brewery to Downtown Commercial/Industrial Zone; and second; one regarding an application by Creemore dairy farmer John Miller to put the necessary zonings in place to allow the construction of a dairy processing plant on his farm. The meeting begins at 5:30 pm, and the public meetings begin at 6:55 pm.

Two Public Meetings

The Accomodation Review Committee dealing with the fate of Duntroon Central Public School was granted an extension of the deadline for its report at a special meeting of the School Board on Wednesday, March 9. The report, which had been due on March 10, is now expected on March 22.

ARC Deadline Extended

After years of speculation, the Highland Companies finally filed an application to operate quarries on 937 hectares of land in Melancthon Township on March 7. Details can be found at www.highlandcompanies.ca.

Melancthon Quarry Application Filed

2 • THE crEEMorE EcHo • Friday, March 11, 2011 THE crEEMorE EcHo • Friday, March 11, 2011 • 3

calendarCommunitySubmit your community events

[email protected]: (705) 466-9906

fax: (705) 466-9908

Upcoming Events

Friday, March 11 to Saturday, April 30• Maplestone Gallery Art Show “Lyrical”. 142 Mill

Street. www.maplestonegallery.comSaturday, March 12

• Mad & Noisy Gallery Show continues for the Members Group Exhibition called “Things we have lost”. Show runs to March 28. 705-466-5555 or [email protected].

• Children’s Story Time at Curiosity House from 10:30 to 11:15 am. Children from 18 months to 6 years enjoy stories with Miriam & activities.

Sunday, March 13• Daylight Saving Time begins.• Church Services are on page 5.• Workshop on Accountability. Learn what will help you

stick to your important commitments, dreams, intentions or resolutions rather then give up. The workshop runs from 1:30 to 4:30 pm for $30 (or pay what you can) and will be facilitated by Shelley Hannah, Life Coach. For more information or to register, call Shelley at 705-466-2387 or email [email protected].

• North Dufferin Baseball League is holding their first meeting of the year. The Annual General Meeting will be held at the Creemore Community Centre at 1 pm. Any teams interested in joining the league for the 2011 season should contact secretary Scott Anderson at 705-424-0769 or by email at [email protected]. www.ndbl.ca.

Glencairn 705-424-6697

For Reliable ServiceTank Truck Delivery of Furnace & Stove Oil

This Weekend

Monday, March 14• Clearview Township’s Council Meeting at 5:30 pm at

the Council Chambers. Public Meetings at 6:55 pm to discuss Creemore Springs’ expansion and John Miller’s Dairy. Everyone welcome.

Tuesday, March 15• Stories & Art about Mermaids & Sea Serpents

at 1 pm at Creemore Library. Call 705-466-3011 to register your child.

Tuesday, March 15 & Thursday, March 17• Sweet taste of Spring Maple Syrup Tour from 10

am to 3 pm at Highlands Nordic, west of Duntroon. For more information call 705-444-5017.

Wednesday, March 16• Make Mermaid Bracelets & Under the Sea at

10:30 am at Creemore Library. $5. Call 705-466-3011 to register your child.

Thursday, March 17• Happy St. Patrick’s Day! • darci-que hosts Ocean Art Hour at 1 pm at

Creemore Library. Call 705-466-3011 to register your child.

• Irish Coffee Party. Luncheon and entertainment at All Saints Anglican Church, Elgin Street, Collingwood. Doors open at 11 am. Tickets are $7 each and are available at the church or phone Jean at 705-446-1820.

• Divine Harmony Group (non-denomination group) Workshop by Dr. Rami Bleckt at 7 pm in the Old School House beside Duntroon Daycare. Topics are: How to find our destination in life & how to succeed in our private life. Admission $20. Our group is planned to be on a monthly basis. www.bleckt.ca [email protected]

Friday, March 18• Girl Power Craft Hour at 11 am at Creemore

Library. Call 705-466-3011 to register your child.Sunday, March 20

• First Day of Spring!Wednesday, March 23

• Clearview Soccer Registration at Creemore Arena Hall, New Lowell Firehall & Stayner Arena from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. www.clearviewsoccerclub.com or call 705-466-2198 for more information.

Friday, March 25• Penny/Silent Auction & Family Social Evening

at 7 pm at Stayner Centennial United Church, 234 William St. & Oak St. Serving homemade baking and desserts, coffee & tea. No cost but donations graciously accepted with all the proceeds going to The Door Youth Centre. Bring your family & friends, children included.

Saturday, March 26• Annual General Meeting of the Creemore Area

Residents’ Association (CARA) will be held at Station on the Green at 10 am. All members of CARA and anyone interested in joining CARA are invited to attend.

• Old Time Square Dance at Avening Hall with Caller Lorraine Sutton. $15 or $40 per family. Light clothing & flat shoes recommended. Cash bar. 705-466-3024.

Friday, April 1• Creemore Echo’s 10th Anniversary. Drop in to our

office between 10 am and 3 pm and enjoy some cake, coffee and conversation with us as we celebrate 10 years of community newspapering.

Saturday, April 2• Ward 3 Town Meeting at Singhampton Hall from

3 to 5 pm. Come hear what’s happening at Council and have your say. Everyone welcome. For more info call Brent Preston at 705-466-6302.

Saturday, April 16 & Sunday, April 17• “Get Growing” Home & Garden Show at the

Creemore Arena. 10 am to 5 pm Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm Sunday. Fun for the whole family! Great Home and Garden Exhibitors with the chance to win the “Big Backyard Giveaway”. For more information visit www.creemorehomeshow.info or call 1-877-848-5831.

Saturday, May 7• Justin Rutledge and the Beauties come to the Avening

Hall. Tickets $20 in advance to be released March 18. For more information aveninghall.wordpress.com or contact [email protected] 705-466-9906.

Saturday, June 11• Elliott Brood in the Barn at the New Farm. Join

this Juno-nominated musical wrecking-ball crew for a night of fun on the farm to benefit Grow for the Stop. For more information contact [email protected] or 705-466-9906.

GYMNASTICS CLASSES

Spring Session REGISTRATION ON NOW for boys and girls All ages Buell Fitness & Aquatic Centre BCRA Kiosk

Base Borden Gymnastics Club is located in the Andy Anderson Arena – Ramillies and Cambrai Rd. CFB Borden.

email [email protected] • 791-6732 • www.bordengymnastics.comBase Borden Gymnastics Club provides quality recreational and competitive

gymnastics programming for all ages.

Spring session starts March 26th-12 weeks March Break Camp available

Of ce

705 720 1020or

1888 255 1990www. atfeerealty.com

GRAHAM MCDONALD

HELP YOU

Frustrated By High Real Estate Fees? You Don’t Have To Be

NO HIDDEN COSTS, FULL SERVICE MLS LISTING

Sell your home for as low as 1%

to a maximum of 3.75%

LET

888 255-1990local knowledge

- to serve you best

Commission and fees cannot be xed and are negotiable.Not intended to solicit parties under contract.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGNotice is hereby given that the Annual

General Meeting of the CREEMORE AREA RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION will be held at � e Station on the Green, Creemore, on Saturday, March 26, 2011, at 10:00 am. All

members of CARA and anyone interested in joining CARA are invited to attend.

CLEARVIEW SOCCER CLUB

Recreational & Competitive Travel Teams

REGISTRATIONWednesday March 23, 2011

6:30pm to 8:30pmAt the following 3 locations

CREEMORE ARENANEW LOWELL FIREHALL

STAYNER ARENA

$100.00 for those born 1999 – 2006$145.00 for those born in 1998 or prior

A uniform deposit of $25.00 is required - CHEQUE post dated for August 31, 2011

made out to Clearview Soccer Club -First year registrants please bring proof of age

visit www.clearviewsoccerclub.com to download and print the registration form

Contact John Underhill 466-2198 or Lisa Hockley 466-5815 for information

THE crEEMorE EcHo • Friday, March 11, 2011 • 3

Enjoy 14 variations on our Homemade Butter Tarts made from scratch with fresh eggs and butter

PlainRaisinPecanI Luv TurtlesMaple WalnutBlack ForestChocolate Coconut CaramelBlueberryCoconutChaiAlmond ButterLemon AlmondLemon RaspberryLemon Cranberry

$ 2 each

$10 for 6

$18 for 12

Enjoy the

BONANZA

March 12 - 19

n our arts

h

Mon. to Thurs.:8am to 4pmFri. 8 am to 7pm Sat. 8am to 5pmSun. 9am to 4pm

Welcome Hockey Players and Families!• Watch for our Daily March Break Specials• Open Fridays evenings for Fish & Chips during Lent

when the expansion quarry would be exhausted and filled with enough water to create a lake feature in 2069 (should the expansion be approved this year), more than a century would have passed. In his opinion, he said, it would be pretty hard to define something that spans several generations as an interim use.

He also pointed out that the final state of the site – a small lake surrounded by mostly planted forest – is not at all ecologically comparable to the mature forest that dominates there now. If you rented your house out to be used as a movie set – an interim use, you could say – you would expect to get the same house back. In Miller’s opinion, a replacement of one ecosystem with a completely different one makes the term “interim” even more troubling.

The other term Miller questioned was “net environmental gain,” a concept that Walker has introduced in its application but that Miller said he’d never come across before. The theory is that, while Walker intends to remove 32.8 hectares of 50 to 70 year old trees (in a significantly older forest), it would replace it with 53 hectares of plantings, as well as the eventual existence of a 60-hectare lake. But Miller pointed out the time it takes – measured in hundreds of years – for plantings, especially those done in an “old-field ecosystem” to become a mature, ecologically functioning forest. That

consideration, plus his prediction that the “lake” would actually be a “limited function aquatic feature” makes it extremely hard, he said, to measure “net environmental gain.”

Miller’s testimony then switched focus to the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Statement of Environmental Values. Each Provincial Ministry is required to have one of these, and it is part of Miller’s job to monitor how well they follow them. The MNR, which somewhat awkwardly oversees both the Niagara Escarpment Commission and the Aggregate Resources Act, has in its Statement, among other things, convictions that “an ecosystem approach to managing our natural resources enables a holistic perspective of social, economic and ecological aspects and provides for integrated resource management” and that “a sound understanding of natural and ecological systems and how our actions affect them is key to achieving sustainability.” Miller questioned how allowing quarry development within delicate ecosystems could be defined as sustainable or as complying with an ecosystem approach. He also stated, significantly, that “if the NEC [which turned down the quarry application and is opposing it at the Board] judges that an application is not consistent with the MNR’s Statement of Environmental Values, then that is grounds to turn down the application, in my opinion.”

Miller was then taken to the subject

of the Adaptive Management Plan (AMP), Walker’s proposed means of monitoring the quarry’s ecological and hydrogeological effects in the future. The plan is to have certain trigger points built into it, levels at which Walker would then contact the MNR and work collaboratively on solutions. The Rockfort Quarry proposal in Caledon was recently turned down at the Board due to doubts about its AMP, and while Miller could not make specific comments about Walker’s AMP as it does not exist yet, he did express concerns with the MNR’s ability to deal with such complex monitoring procedures. He reported that the Ministry is “overloaded and understaffed” and questioned the ability of aggregate inspectors, who are very good at the traditional job of inspecting quarries, to also administer such complicated, scientific documents.

“Aggregate resource field inspectors are not trained to make elaborate decisions about things like forestry and aquatic biology,” he said.

Lawyers for Walker Aggregates and Clearview Township, who have already spent the better part of a year presenting their own expert testimony on why the quarry expansion and its accompanying road agreement are workable scenarios, seemed content to let most of what Miller said stand. Walker counsel did, however, make sure to have him admit that he has no evidence that Walker Aggregates has

ever failed to rehabilitate any of their sites. “To the letter of the law, yes,” Miller agreed, clearly implying that he still feels that quarry rehabilitation to the point that the original ecosystem is fully recovered is impossible.

He also agreed that, while Clearview Township would also be a commenting agency on the AMP, the municipality would surely have the opportunity to retain consultants to ensure it had the proper expertise necessary.

Miller’s day-and-a-half of testimony finished with a few questions from the Board itself, during which he acknowledged the difficult situation that policy-makers now find themselves in with regard to land-use planning in general.

“There is a central tension between the landscape perspective and the parcel perspective,” he said, referring to two competing views: that we should have regard for ecosystems as a whole, across broad swathes of land, and that owners of specific parcels of land still have the right to do what they wish with their properties within the letter of the law.

The Consolidated Board hearing continues at 49 Huron Street in Collingwood, with several more witnesses scheduled for the CCC and the NEC and closing arguments to follow. It’s anticipated the hearing will continue until at least the end of April, with a decision likely to come several weeks, or more, after that.

(Continued from page 1)

Environmental Commissioner testifies at Quarry hearing


THE WAY WE WEREEDITORIAL

Send your letters to The Creemore Echo, 3 Caroline Street West, Box 1219, Creemore, ON L0M 1G0 , email to [email protected] or drop them off at the Echo’s Office. Letters must include the sender’s full name. All letters submitted to the Echo are not neces-sarily published. The Echo reserves the right to edit letters for length and clarity.

SAYINGS

Some timely phrases as clocks change

LETTER

Feedbackopinion& Feedback and old photos [email protected] (705) 466-9906fax (705) 466-9908

The Creemore Echo is published every Friday and distributed free locally. Editorial and advertising material deadline is Tuesday at 5 pm. To receive a weekly copy of The Creemore Echo by mail outside of the circulation area or email version please contact us at [email protected] are $45 (inc gst)

2007 WINNER

2009 WINNER

3 Caroline St. W., Box 1219 • Creemore, ON L0M 1G0 • Tel: (705) 466-9906 • Fax: (705) 466-9908 • [email protected]

Publication Agreement # 40024973Please return undeliverable Canadian mail to address below.

EDITOR Brad Holden

[email protected]

MANAGER Georgi Denison

[email protected]

PUBLISHER Sara Hershoff

[email protected]

ASSISTANT Fred Mills

[email protected]

DIRECTORS: Tom Vandewater, Mary Vandewater, Craig SimpsonTECH SUPPORT: Dr. Phil

2010 WINNER

Time is of the essence. Time waits for no-one. What a waste of time. Time marches on.

These are just a few of the many ways in which we use “time.” This weekend it is “time” once again to turn the keeper of time, the clock, forward. As the saying goes, “spring forward, fall back.” A simple way to remember which way to turn back (or forward) the hands of time.

The idea of daylight savings time has been credited to several great minds of our time, the most famous being Benjamin Franklin. There have been many arguments for and against daylight savings time, ranging from health issues to safety issues, to revenue and sporting issues. There is an interesting fact that most of the southern half of the planet has never observed daylight savings time. In Canada, Saskatchewan and one little corner of northwest Alberta do not observe daylight savings time; remember that as you pass through on the Trans Canada highway.

So, here are a few sayings that all pertain to time, or the lack of. By the way, does anyone know the time?

• The whole life of man is but a point of time, let us enjoy it. – Plutarch

• Time is the most valuable thing a man can

spend. – Theophrastus• Nothing is a waste of time if you use the experience

wisely. – Rodin• I don’t think of the past. The only thing that

matters is the everlasting present. – W. Somerset Maugham

• Tempus edax rerum (Time conquers all). – Ovid 40 B.C.

• Calendars are for careful people, not passionate ones. – Chuck Sigors

• The passage of time is simply an illusion created by our brains. – A.M.W. Ball

• The infinite is in the finite of every instant. – Zen saying

And finally, something to remember…• There’ll be two dates on your tombstone and all

your friends will read ’em, but all that’s gonna matter is the little dash between ’em. – Kevin Walsh

CatFLACK

SAY

ING

S

Dear Readers:Did any of you happen to notice the large black

cat perched on a limb hanging over the County Road 9 near Belhaven Antiques on Friday?

I noticed it sitting up there on my way into work Friday morning. It looked down at me, looked me right in the eye and blinked at me. I wondered how it got up there, and why it was still up there, and then continued on to work.

When I came home again eight hours later it was raining and I was surprised to see that the cat was still sitting up there and still looking down at the cars as they drove by. I didn’t think it would make the night sitting up there in the rain. When I got home I phoned Lindsay Bell, who lives right there, and asked him if he owned a black cat. Turns out that he has been feeding this feral cat all winter, so he thanked me and quickly hung up the phone to try to help it before dark. He drove to the County Roads department and they had already gone home. He phoned the Township Roads people and they had also already headed home for the weekend. Not knowing what to do next, he heard his dogs bark. When he went out to see what the commotion was all about, he found four men rescuing the cat! They were roofers from Dundalk.

They had also noticed the cat in the morning as they drove under it on their way to a job in Bracebridge. They agreed among themselves that if the cat was still there after work, they would help it. They had a long ladder on board for their roofing job, and used it to get the cat out of the tree. This was a bit of a dangerous thing to do because this part of County Road 9 has poor visibility due to hills and bends in the road and people drive through there very fast!

Anyway, they managed to keep safe and the cat is now safe with its four feet back on the ground – all thanks to four good Samaritans from Dundalk. Four guys who after working hard all day and still a long way from home, stopped and took a few minutes to help. Thank you. We need more like you out there!

Georgi Denison, Dunedin

Good SamaritansThis picture, brought in by Pete Smith, shows Orie and Irvin Johnston sitting on their snowmobiles on top of a snowbank beside the 5th Line, about 100 metres north of John Millsap’s place, between Curtis Royal’s and Al Eagle’s. The picture was taken, Pete thinks, during the winter of 1982. Believe it or not, they are watching a Township snowplow driven by Jack Redpath attempting to plow the road. The snowplow is actually not visible in this shot, but it is moving toward the photographer, and you can see the cloud of snow it is pushing up. In other words, there is a huge amount of snow covering the road. Apparently, after Redpath gave up, Curtis Royal spent a week working at opening the road with a tractor. Finally, a big Simcoe County snowplow was brought in to finish the job.

Ladies and gentlemen, the end is in sight. On Saturday night, as the rain comes down (according to the weatherman), we can all ritually turn our clocks ahead an hour, bringing brighter dinner hours and the inescapable feeling that another Great Canadian Winter has passed us by. Sure, there might be another snowfall or two. We might even have an April blizzard (it happens more times than we care to mention). But in 10 days we’ll mark the official start of spring, and any day now we can expect to notice crocuses peeking above the ground. The snow will melt, the grass will green up, the days will get longer and the sun will get warmer. Really. It happens every year. Bring it on, we say.

Spring, Is That You?


THE SALVATION ARMy HOPE ACRES COMMUNITy CHURCH

Invites you to attend Sunday Church Services at 10:45 am

998614 Mulmur Tosorontio Townline, Glencairn

For more info call (705) 466-3435

L o c a l

C h u r c h

D i r e c t o r y

To tell us what is happening at your church call Georgi 466-9906 • fax: 466-9908 • email: [email protected]

Worship & Sunday School at 10 am. “Where Jesus is Lord,

all are welcome.” Rev. J. Inglis & Rev. E. Inglis • 466-5838

ST. ANDREW’S MAPLE CROSS PRESByTERIAN CHURCH

1 Caroline Street West

Sunday, March 13

CREEMORE BAPTIST CHURCHSunday School for all ages

at 9:45 a.m.Worship Service 11 a.m.

12 Wellington Street WestFor info call (705) 466-6232

All are welcome

Join us at ST. LUKE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH

22 Caroline St. W. 466-2206For a joyful service of worship join us each Sunday at 11 am

& Messy Church at 4:30 pm on the last Sunday of each month. Taize Service at 7 pm on the

last Wednesday of each month.

Knox Presbyterian Church, Dunedin

Sunday Service at 10 amJoin us for Restoration of spirit,

Renewal of compassion & Refreshment of love.

Rev. Jim McVeigh

CREEMORE UNITED PASTORAL CHARGE

Avening Sunday School & Worship at 9 am, New Lowell United at 10:15 am

& St. John’s in Creemore at 11:30 am coffee & conversation starting at 11 am

All are welcome 466-2200

SylviaGALE

SEN

IOR

S

Creemore Big Heart Seniors

St. James’ Anglican ChurchClougher-Lisle

Sunday Service at 9:30 am All are welcome to join us.

Discover The Path... A Touchstone for Health and Wellness

8A Caroline Street West, Creemore 705-466-2387 • 866-794-0779

www.discoverthepath.comServices * Information * Books & Products

Service • Books • Support• Massage • Esthetics

• Ion Cleanse

424-6697

Open Mon - Fri, 8am - 6pmSat. 8am - 5pm , Closed SundaysStephens, Glencairn

Stephens Store “The GlencairnMall”

Olde thyme charm with

modern convenience!

Your business is always

appreciated

We started the day with a joke from Norma Johnston – and another cute reading about Seniors foibles from Effie Taylor (via Linda’s Hair Fashions!) Thanks to you all.

We sell our 50/50 tickets in strips of three – but you can only win once on each strip you buy. Well, last week Norma Johnston bought her usual two strips of tickets. Then, just before the numbers were drawn, Warren Gale and Ray Leighton, who were conducting the draw, noticed that there was one strip left over. So they asked if anyone wanted the last strip, and Norma said “OK, I’ll take it” which was doing us all a favour. Then, be darned if she didn’t win three times – once on each strip of tickets. Most of us were getting a real kick out of her unusual luck, but it seems Norma overheard someone who was somewhat disgruntled at this run of luck. So Norma, bless her heart, decided to donate most of her 50/50 winnings back to the Club this week and she explained why she felt she should do this. Bob Veale assured her that she did not need to do this – and he thanked her for the donation when she decided to carry on with her original plan.

The 50/50 draws went to Lillian Hiltz, Wilma Zeggil, Mercedes Veinot, Lucy young, Marg Hope, May Johnston and Irene Dolson.

Moon shots were played by Roy Veinot , Elsie Longson, Dave Smith (2), Sylvia Gale, Janice Stephens, Dean Chestnut (2), Mercedes Veinot, Marg Hope, June Hartley and Sheila Fenton. Sheila won the travelling prize and Roy took the Sidewinders

loot from Bob Veale, Dave Smith and Warren Gale.

High scorers were Sheila Fenton 305, Carol Faulkner 284, Doris Hare 278 and Dave Smith 274. Low was Warren Gale with 87.

We sent a Get Well Soon card out to Laura Connors, who has been a patient at Southlake Hospital in Newmarket for some time. Hope you are soon out and about, Laura.

Last week I mentioned that it would suit me if March came in like a lion so it would go out like a lamb. Well, we did get the lion – any bets as to whether the lamb will follow the prediction and show up at month’s end?

We were at St. John’s United Church for their beef and lamb dinner recently. Warren opts for lamb only, as this is usually the only time he gets this treat. During the war, the soldiers were fed no end of mutton, and not too much of any other kind of meat. After the war, he would have run a mile to get away from any kind of ovine meat. Then,

some years ago we were given some lamb chops by Bob and Marilyn Kent, and Warren really enjoyed them. So when Neil Metheral added the choice of lamb to the beef supper, it was a real hit with Warren, and he does mention, often, that it is a super meal. Anyway, we thoroughly enjoyed the meal, what with good food and good company as Irma Flack was on one side of the table and George Hunt from “up over the hills” on the other. And I also ran into Brian Hockley from up near Collingwood. Brian belonged to “Jordan’s Pistol and Gun Club,” and he and Mickey McNabb would always arrive in at home in lots of time for coffee, toast and chatter before they went to the shooting range down the field. Matter of fact, Mickey was an old time barber in Collingwood, and he brought his clippers down one Sunday morning and gave son Terry (Mantracker) his first hair cut.

Lynda (Whitley) Jeffery was over the other day and brought in some more wool for my “Nancy” collection. Thanks, Lynda. She also brought in some yummy muffins and cookies, so having her for lunch was a double pleasure! Lynda is a member of the Wasaga Beach Women’s Business Association, and she mentioned that “Mantracker” would be speaking at the RecPlex in Wasaga Beach on April 20 at 7 pm. Tickets are available from Lynda at 705-428-5942. She also

mentioned that on Sunday, May 22, there would be an Avening Reunion at the Avening Community Centre. This is the same weekend as the Stayner High School Reunion, so the two functions will dovetail, and will be accessible to folks from out of town who have returned for the School Reunion. The Avening Reunion is still in the planning stages and will likely be a potluck meal. Everyone is welcome who was born in, was raised in, or grew up around or near the Avening area, or once spent time around here with friends or – heck, nearly anyone who is interested! There is a sports field outside the Hall, and, from past examples of Avening gatherings they are always fun, interesting, and well-attended. (Remember the dances in the Hall? A great crowd!) More information on this Reunion will follow.

My thanks to Lorne and Isabelle Cleary for delivering the “On being observant” quiz sheet that just might pop up one of these days at a Seniors gathering. Really interesting, and shows how one doesn’t pay attention to everyday things. Thanks again, guys!

Note to Nandi and Brad – how clever of your Gramps to come up with the names Kate and Replicate for twins. I did remember Kate, but thought that name was reserved for triplets. You know, Kate, Duplicate and Triplicate – but now I see it is also good for quadruplets if you add his Replicate!

JON STEVEN WINFIELD grandson of the late Jean and Erel Blackburn of Creemore, and son of Donna and Steve

Win� eld, of Barrie, graduated with distinction from the

University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Arts on � ursday, February 24th, 2011. Jon has applied to Teacher's College

to continue his education in September. Granny and

Gramps would be very proud of Jon's achievements!

6 • THE crEEMorE EcHo • Friday, March 11, 2011

(705) 445-5520 ext. [email protected]

www.vickibell.ca

All Real EstateServices Ltd. Brokerage

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge...

Congratulations Vicki on your continued

accomplishments and success! Your dedication

to customer service, professionalism, and attention to detail in

your profession is to be commended!

2006200720082010

Congratulations Vicki!

Contact Vicki Directly

“Your Local Professional Real Estate Broker”

BrokerVicki Bell

2009

Cape Cod house on 1.9 acres with river frontage, Centre hall plan, 3 beds, 2.5 baths, master w/ensuite, main fl oor family rm & laundry, direct entry garage, decks, gardens, & woods.

Cheryl MacLaurin Chestnut Park Real Estate Ltd

Sales RepresentativeDirect 705 446-8005Office 705 445-5454

Limestone & Timber bungalow on 3.5 acres, Great Room with Rumford fi replace, 5 bedrooms, master with ensuite.Long views of Escarpment, footsteps to the Bruce Trail.

www.chestnutpark.com

VILLAGE OF CREEMORE TOWN & COUNTRY $575,000

CREEMORE HILLSPRIVATE BEAUTY $699,000

New to QR (Quick Response) codes?

Visit chestnutpark.com or get the free app for any smart phone @

getscanlife.com

by Brad HoldenAs far as 40th birthdays go, this one is sure to be memorable.

Duntroon television and movie producer Teza Lawrence was on her way down to the city Monday morning, in anticipation of her husband, artist and farmer Gord Kemp, meeting her down there later in the day for a party with some friends to celebrate her big milestone.

But just as she passed Highway 9, her plans took a major turn. That’s when Kemp reached her on her cell phone, to tell her that their 105-year-old barn was ablaze.

The barn and its adjoining stone farmhouse, as well as the surrounding land and majestic view, have been in Kemp’s family since 1980, when Gord’s father Robert, a pioneering artist in the Georgian Bay area, settled there. Robert never farmed much on the property, but when Gord and Teza took over in 1997, they were quick to purchase some livestock and try their hands at the agricultural business.

Unfortunately, that means that there were animals in the barn on Monday morning, and not all of them escaped the blaze. The fire started at about 10:45 am, while Kemp was in the house. It was their neighbour Bob Leach, who had ironically plowed their driveway that morning – something that rarely gets done, but which made way for several fire trucks later in the day – who first spotted the smoke. He notified Kemp by phone, and Kemp immediately ran to the barn and started opening gates. He managed to get about 25 sheep out, as well as the resident horse, llama and goat, before the flames threatened to engulf him and he retreated. About 10 minutes later, the barn collapsed. Sadly, about 20 sheep perished inside.

In the meantime another neighbour, John Kennedy, had called 911. Clearview Firefighters from Creemore, Stayner and Singhampton, as well as some colleagues from Collingwood, quickly arrived, but there was not

much to be done other than to contain the flames.Kemp is still trying to figure out what started the

fire, but in the end it’s not that important, as the couple had no insurance on the structure. To that end, they’re already thinking about some kind of “barn-raising benefit concert,” to be held sometime this summer.

A more spiritual sort of gathering took place Monday night, after the firefighters had gone home and the fire had been reduced to embers that produced a smoky smell that stretched from Dunedin to Nottawa.

That night, several neighbours, friends and family members showed up for an impromptu “barn-burning birthday bash,” as Lawrence described it, and no reveler went home without saying their own silent goodbye to the cherished structure, and the animals that disappeared with it.

Always quick to see the positive side of things, Lawrence figured she was pretty lucky to have this many firemen show up for her birthday! She also wanted to express her gratitude for all of the great work they did containing the blaze.

Kemp and Lawrence’s barn in happier times, during the summer of 2009 with their children watching a rainbow from the barnyard.

An iconic barn goes up in flames in Duntroon


www.themoviegals.com Real estate in action!

393 First StreetSuite 100Collingwood Ontario L9Y 1B3

OPEN HOUSE Sunday March 12th 1-4

PRICE REDUCTION - Now $929,000

Just Listed!Charming 4 bedroomVictorian set on 125’lot. Grand entrancewith original staircaseand hardwood floors,10’ ceilings. Fantasticfamily room boastscathedral ceilings, exposed beams and gas fireplace. 172 Library Street,Creemore. $349,000

Cedarmint HomeExceptionally appointed3 bdrm bungalow with35 acres that fronts onthe Noisy River withgroomed walking trailson a secluded road.Finished walk out lowerlevel, spacious screenporch, ground sourceheat, 3½ baths. Privateyet close to the villageof Creemore! $929,000

Go to www.themoviegals.com to watch the movies& download the brochures of all our listings!

Barb Thompson & Anita Lauer SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Direct 705-446-6446Office 705-445-5454

EXODUS The crowd at right – 67 people almost exclusively from the Dunedin area – took a mass vacation together during the first week of March, flying south for some fun in the sun in the Dominican Republic. By all accounts, everyone got along splendidly for the entire week; in fact, everyone loved the experience so much that there’s talk of making it an annual event. Of course, such an epic excursion needs a name, and this trip will forever be known as the trip to the “Dunedican.” Kudos to Dan Clements, who apparently masterminded the whole thing.

PINK SHIRT DAY The NCPS Student Parliament has been focusing on anti-bullying education, and on February 23 they participated in Pink Shirt Day, a cross-Canada event that sees students donning pink shirts in solidarity with a Nova Scotia student who was once bullied for wearing such a piece of clothing and organized a protest at his school. The event was such a success that the school will hold its own follow-up on March 23, and this time it’s hoped the whole student body will spend the day in pink.

Hello, i’m Dorit Murray. i was born in Germany but i retired to Collingwood following a career in social work. Within a week of moving to Collingwood i got married and shortly afterwards, started volunteering at the G&M Hospital. i’ve been volunteering on the information Desk for fourteen years and love every minute of it!My husband Doug has been joining me at the Hospital lately, not as a volunteer but as a happy participant in the Cardiac Rehab program every week. We’re so glad the program is available to him in our community. Many newcomers to our community believe they can only receive top quality medical care in the city but Doug and I know that great care is available right here!i am a passionate grandmother who enjoys travel and the theatre. At the G&M we’ve got lots of challenges ahead but remember -

We’re in this together.all<

www.cgmh.on.ca


Sign up for our great March Break Camp.

Two hours per day, morning or afternoonSkiing or snowboardingFor beginners to advanced; ages six and up.

Open to the public Hours Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 4:30 pmSaturday and Sunday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm (subject to change based on weather).

Come Ride North America’s Longest Magic Carpet Come Ride North America’s Longest Magic CarpetDiscover Mansfield

For more information about public skiing or to sign up for March Break Camp Call 705 435- 3838 ext 225 or 232

www.mansfieldskiclub.com

Enjoy March Break With Us!1/2 Price Lift Tickets All Week!

1/2 Price Rentals All Week!

Open to the Public - March 12th to March 20th

Sign up for our great March Break Camp.

T h d i ft

March Break CampMarch 15 to 18 - 2 hours per dayOnly $165 (not including lift ticket)Beginners to advanced: ages 6 and up!Daily Afternoon Camps - Only $45/Day1-3pm Daily (lift ticket required)

Daily Draws for T-shirtsDaily Scavenger HuntsDaily Tennis Ball DropMarshmallow PitAnnual Puddle Jump March 18th

The following interesting account of skating rinks in Creemore was written by Pansy Benelle, 1899-1978, who lived all her life at the north end of Mill Street.

“The first record that I have found so far tells us that the first skating rink was on the old grist mill pond. How the young people got skates or learned to skate I do not know. The winter evenings were spent skating there and all the young lads were fairly good skaters and of course tried to teach the ladies.

“Some evenings the band rehearsed for concerts with the mandolin and guitar with Andy Johnston, R.J.’s brother. One of the older ladies to skate was Miss Mathers, later Mrs. Wilson.

“This was the rink used for many years until in 1903/04 an open air rink was run by Geo. Hinds on a lot on the west side of Mill Street between the Merchant’s Bank and Mr. M. Ford’s shoe shop. (Note: This is where the Curiosity Book Shop is now located.) It was sold in 1905 to Mr. Elias Leonard. This lot was purchased from the Casey estate for $200, a big price for land at that time.

“Mr. Leonard built a large wooden building with a north side alleyway, a balcony, two dressing rooms, one for the ladies and one for the men, and at the west side of the rink fairly high up

off the ground, a room which was called the board room. Mr. Leonard and his wife, who was a beautiful skater, ran this rink for many years. Admission was 15 cents, adult. For a while during the First World War years, Mr. Dave Nicol rented and ran it and we paid 10 cents

plus one cent tax, a total of 11 cents. Many hockey matches and fancy dress carnivals were held here.

“I’m sure I spent hundreds of hours skating there. Often Mina Stacey and I would leave home soon after 7 pm, go to the rink, sit on the snow bank and change our footwear to skates, and be the first on the ice when the doors opened at 7:30. Skating started at 8 pm and by the time our usual skating pals arrived we were getting a bit tired, but we were often the last ones to leave and how we loved to do the square corners.

“The east half of the rink had a wooden floor and here in the summer we roller skated. This was called the Roller Rink. I first learned this art on Mr. Dan Grainger’s front sidewalk, from the house to the laneway with his daughter Hazel, now Dr. Hazel Grainger. Sometimes if it were wet, we used the cellar to skate in.

“Taken from a 1905 March Star is the following: ‘First notice of a grand skating carnival that will be held in Creemore Rink on Friday night at 7:30 pm. Prizes will be given for best lady’s costume,

gent’s, boy’s and girl’s costumes. Maskers have full use of the ice until 8:30 pm, after that general skating. Admission 20 cents, and children 15 cents.

“This rink had also been used a bit for curling for a short time.

“The roof of this rink became unsafe so finally it was taken down. Mr. George Scriver made a rink down on the river near the swinging bridge (Note: the end of Mill Street). Tents or makeshift shacks were put up for use in changing skates and boots, but the heat from the stoves was not enough to keep warm by, so this kind of a rink, being a bit out of the way, didn’t last too long.

“A lot on the corner of Jane Street (now Library Street) and Elizabeth East was bought in 1925 from Geo. Orr and a new metal clad rink was built in 1926 (Note: It was bought from Wm Dunstan and built in November and December of 1928). It contained a west side portion for curling, divided by an aisle from the skating part on the east side, a balcony along the north end, a large room for catering, etcetera, toilets and two dressing rooms downstairs.

“In 1960 the rink went for some remodelling when the northern entrance was closed. There is a door on the east side used only at certain times. A new part was built on the south end. On the curling end of the rink on the ground floor is the women’s washroom, upstairs there is a lunch room and a kitchen which the lady curlers claim as theirs. For skating

the south end of the rink boasts a hallway, a lunch booth, a washroom and a furnace room.

“The sports committee have for about three years been asking for donations towards flooring the skating part and I understand that they now (in 1966) have about enough money to go ahead. In the spring of 1967 this work will begin, and when finished the arena will also have artificial ice.

“This rink in the first place was built by town businessmen who sold debenture shares to pay the contractor. Mr. Sy Kolb held a big part of the mortgage on it. The village took over the rink in 1940. Artificial ice for the curlers was installed in 1962.

The rink is used in September for School Fair exhibits, sometimes a dance or sport event.”

This arena which was pictured in the Way We Were section of a recent Creemore Echo, eventually proved structurally unsound and the new arena on Collingwood Street was opened in 1978.

Debbie Mumberson, whom many of you have met at the Village Pharmacy, has an interesting autograph quilt which her great grandfather, Edward Flack, won in 1950. It has many names from Mt. Zion (the top of the Fifth Line) to Honeywood. Debbie is looking for more information. Call her at 705-424-6811. Perhaps it might help with family history.

HelenBLACKBURNLO

CA

L H

ISTO

RY

A look back at Creemore’s many ice rinks


Discover Mansfield

CREEMOREWeekend Weather

MEMBERSHIP SPECIALS!Midweek Season Passes Available!435-3838 • (800) 461-1212

marketing@mansfi eldskiclub.com

www.mansfi eldskiclub.com

Where families come together

Games&FunSudoku

Answer in Classifieds

by

Barbara Simpson

Laugh a minute

Brian’s Canadian Crossword #0114 by Brian Paquin © 2011

Find this week’s answer in Classifiedsby Ken Thornton

No, I didn’t, Spike. I’m more concerned with

how you know!

Did you know, Spike, that Joan Morby

has the nicest N C I B K I L

in town?

Spike & Rusty Word Scramble1011

9 2 7 1 2 7 6 5 41 7 8 3

4 9 3 6 8

7 2 3 8 6 5 4 7 2

9 4 2 3 8 7 6 5 18 6 5 9 1 4 2 7 33 1 7 6 5 2 9 8 41 7 8 2 3 6 4 9 56 3 9 8 4 5 1 2 72 5 4 7 9 1 3 6 87 9 1 5 2 3 8 4 64 2 6 1 7 8 5 3 95 8 3 4 6 9 7 1 2

Friday, March 11Light rainHigh 3 Low 0 Winds N 10 km/hPOP 80% Saturday, March 12Mixed precipitationHigh 3 Low –1 Winds W 25 km/hPOP 40% Sunday, March 13Scattered flurriesHigh -2 Low –8 Winds W 30 km/hPOP 40%

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

32 33 34 35 36

37 38 39

40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48

49 50 51 52 53

54 55 56 57 58 59

60 61 62 63 64 65

66 67 68 69 70

71 72 73 74

75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82

83 84 85 86

87 88 89 90 91

92 93 94 95 96

97 98 99

100 101 102

#0114 ACROSS 53 Ouster 101 Ceases

54 ___ Black Of Crossharbour 102 Had1 See 6A 56 Swear word6 Waterway opened in 1825 57 Stir up DOWN

(with 1A) 59 African river bed10 Ontario actor Greene 60 Consecrates 1 ___ Council For The Arts

(Dancing With Wolves) 62 Walk about 2 Pass to a scorer16 Ancient Judean fortress 65 Syncrude Tailings ___, AB 3 Pound17 Hiatus 66 Aimed for 4 Spam18 Correction 68 Is under the weather 5 Privy20 Stand firm 69 Noah or Wallace ___ 6 Blue blood21 ___ of Skye, Scotland 71 Thermal starter 7 Hurry22 In a silly way 72 Merits 8 Woes23 Kite part 74 Wheel tooth 9 Voter24 Big name in world banking 75 Bury 10 Coarse27 Poetic contraction 78 Markdowns 11 RSVP28 Interest-bearing notes 79 Forest workers 12 Voracious29 All wool and a yard ___ 83 Dorval day 13 Not hers30 Like Tim 84 Decima Research 14 Actor Kutcher31 Kooky undertaking 15 Enmity32 Part of a Mountie uniform 85 ___ cow! 16 Rocker Ryder (Little Latin

(2) 86 Cold War radar line Lupe Lu)34 Chronicle 87 Bark beetle target 19 Mr. Clean alternative36 Truck type 88 The Yukon's first capital (2) 25 Like Felix and Oscar37 Yea alternative 91 Country ___ 26 Big name in root beer38 Dazzling light 92 Price of a ride 29 Garth's friend39 Certainly, to a teen 94 Deceive 31 Stay out of sight (2)40 Aviator Curtiss 95 Strong aversion 33 Exclude43 Hard labour 97 Promo film 34 Disrespect44 ____ Jay (BC's official bird) 98 Fernwood 2-Night star 35 Anecdote49 Conifer 99 Primer 36 Tropical tree50 Showed itself 100 Hotfoots it 38 McNab or McPherson

39 Hull parts40 Major piano key (hyph.)41 Classical guitarist Boyd42 Inaccuracy43 Make frizzy45 Falls flat 75 Fly from a cockpit 85 Seven ___ of Rome46 Dodge 76 Back teeth 88 Chip's partner47 Trap type 77 False accusation (2) 89 Rain, reign or rein48 Covered in goo 78 Farmers in the spring 90 Many are ___ but few are51 A mari usque ad mare, e.g. 79 Nonsense frozen52 Sinks a putt 80 ___ oil product 91 Complain55 Miner 81 Depended (on) 93 Bah!58 Lubricants 82 Testify 96 Cut into shape61 Shortage 84 Skinned63 Lightly cooked64 Carving wood67 Arrangements70 Faberge creation73 1984 Steve Martin movie (3)74 Jacques Cousteau's ship

A T T A C K A F R I C A F L O R AF O I B L E T E A R U P E A V E ST O M B O Y L E S S O R S T E A K

E Y E L A S H M I D T E R M SR U B Y D A N D O L O U RO P E R A X T I N A U S A B L EV I G O D A A D O R I N G L I E NE C U A D O R L O T T O B L A N DR E N D K A R E N A N A L Y S T S

D A V I S B L U R TW I L D E Y E S S A Y S O B A N DO C E A N L E G A L E M P E R O RR O I L A S S U M E D A C C E D EE N A M E L T E R R Y B O N E S

A C L A S S O A C M A S SA M E T H Y S T C A N M O R ER A D I O C A J O L E L A D L E SA L G A E O R A T O R T R U E T OB L E N D T E N S E S S E E D E D

#0113Solved

www.cancross.com

A ventriloquist is telling Irish jokes in Davy Byrne’s pub in Grafton Street, Dublin, when

O’Leary, an irate Irishman, stands up shouting, “You’re making out we’re all dumb and stupid. I

oughtta punch you in the nose!” “I’m sorry sir, I...........”

“Not you,” says O’Leary. “I’m talking to that little fella on your knee!”


• Service Directory •

Computer Repairs

Auto MechanicSusan’sGroomingSalon

31 Caroline St. E East entranceOPEN Mon-Fri Call for appointments

(705) 466-3746

PROFESSiONAL GROOMiNG FOR ALL BREEDS

Animal Care

General ContractingRenovations & Repairs

Drywall • Painting Carpentry • Tile Work

Masonry • Roofing Make one call - we do it all

Over 30 years experienceNeil i McAvoy 705.466.3804

Contractor

Paul BriggsMaster Painter

(705) 466-5572Over 25 Years Experience

Painter & Renovator

PLUMBERJason GardnerQualified service for all your

plumbing needs Call for your free estimate

Tel: (705) 466-3519

Plumber

T. NASH

Servicing Creemore and surrounding area

PLUMBING

(705) 466-5807Licensed and insured

Plumber

Member of the Certified General

Accountants of Ontario

Ramona A. Greer CGACertified General Accountant

7351 Hwy 26, Staynerand Creemore by appointment

(705) 428-2171

Accountant

phone 466-3334 • fax 466-5166

Services

Rentals

TOWINGTowing at its best!

For all your towing and recovery needs!

Kells Service Centre80 High Street, Collingwood

(705) 445-3421 • Fax (705) 445-7404

Towing

Animal Care

General Practise of Law

Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

www.ferrislaw.ca

190 Mill StreetT 705-466-3888

Lawyer

John L. Ferris

Megan L. Celhoffer

Machine Shop Facility

8:00a.m. to 4:30 p.m.-Monday to FridayBook ahead for Saturday ServiceDon Brearey or Gloria Howie

705-466-2149

• Custom Steel Fabrication & repairs• Decorative Iron Railing, Fences & Gates

WeldingWelding

GRAVITY SUN POWERsolar generation

for energy savings and incomeprofessionally designed and

installedJeff Williams • 466-5741

Alternative Energy Cleaning

Bus. (705) 428-3393 ~ Res. (705) 466-2343

Valley Auto & TechRepairs to all makes of cars and light trucks!

Garry Stamp, Owner/Operator

Safety’s & Fuel Injection218 Main Street,

Stayner

Free Estimates

[email protected]

www.mollymaid.ca

A great way to reach your customers each week.

The Creemore Echo service directory allows you to advertise for the cost of $15 per week.

Call 466-9906 to find out more.

7685 Cty Rd 91 • 428-0131

A1 Exceptional House CleaningSeeking new clients in Creemore area.

Free estimate. References if needed. Call Lesley

(705) 627-8095 days(705) 424-2810 evenings

Cleaning

Easy on the EyesExterior Painting

BARNS • FENCES • HOUSES • EQUIPMENTSANDBLASTING & PRESSURE WASHING(705) 791-5478

FREE QUOTESHANDYMAN WORK

NEIGHBOURLY SERVICE

Painter Plumber

3 Seasons Garden CareExperienced gardeners offering custom service [email protected]

519.938.6197

Gardening

• Council approved the 2011 Budget at a 2.9% tax levy incremental inclusive of a .4% growth in the municipality. The residential rate has decreased in 2011 to .3875% from .4005 % in 2010. The average increase per household for the municipal portion of the 2011 property tax is $17.50. A copy of the Budget will be made available for public viewing on the website.

• Council is looking for public input regarding recreation in Mulmur Township. A special open forum public meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 30, at 7 pm at the Township Offices.

• Council has accepted the report from the Treasurer regarding the Mansfield Water Rate Study and Financial Plan and has selected Hemson Consulting Ltd. as the preferred consulting firm.

• Council is pleased to appoint George Linger to the Mansfield Recreation Committee as a representative of the Mansfield Cubs Senior Team.

• Walter Benotto, Chair, and Wayne Wilson, CAO/Secretary-Treasurer of the NVCA made a presentation to Council regarding the many programs offered by the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Area as well as their 2011 draft budget.

• Robert Stein and Bill Clancy of Fritz Construction made a presentation to Council on the advantages of renewable energy, specifically solar and how the Township could benefit from the installation of a roofing solar panel system.

• Council approved New Tecumseth 2011 Public Library Agreement in the amount of $28 per user.

• Council appointed the following applicants to the Council Remuneration Ad Hoc Committee – Robert Wells, Shawn McConville, Gary Bovard and Don MacFarlane.

• Council approved a motion to make May 29 known as “The Day of the Honey Bee”.

The next Council meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16 at 6 pm.

Mulmur Council Notes2.9 per cent tax increase approved, remuneration committee appointed at March 3 meeting

This past month, February, was celebrated by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) as the month in which the average Canadian earned enough money to buy their entire year’s supply of groceries. In fact, the CFA news release declared February 12 as “Food Freedom Day.” What is shocking is the calculation includes alcoholic beverages.

Food Freedom Day was put in place to clearly identify how little we spend on groceries in a year in relation to our income. Farm organizations are celebrating the fact that our food is so inexpensive, yet high quality. We believe, however, that alarm bells should be going off in the agricultural industry. The retail price of food is continually rising. However, the average farm gate price (the price that a farmer receives for the product), has had minimal change. Low-cost food means that farmers are giving up their profits to stay in business as continuous pressure is being applied from large food-retail chains. The farm gate pricing of some commodities, particularly the red meat sector, has moved very little in 20 years and, in fact, sometimes has moved in the wrong direction for the farmer.

Why should this be a concern for all of us? The fact is many farms have already started to use equity to stay in business because they are not making money. What then? Without a profitable diverse commodity based industry the agricultural infrastructure, (such as machinery dealerships, feed mills, veterinarians, local business etc.), will close their doors.

The Real Deal is FoodWe have talked in earlier articles about

imported food and food ingredients being used to force Canadian farmers to sell their commodities for less. An example we see every time we shop is local apple growers competing with apples from China. It will take a strong government to first recognize this as a crisis, and then to take appropriate action to safeguard our food system. Our feed

nutritionist commented, on one of his recent visits to our farm, that there once was a partnership between the farmer, the food processor and the retailer and they used to negotiate fair pricing. Now, that partnership does not exist. The food retailers are giants, and they dictate prices. Where is our government? Shouldn’t they be protecting us?

News captions these days are centered on riots in the Middle East and North Africa. Interestingly, Egypt is the world’s largest importer of wheat. Weather complications in other parts of the world have created a wheat shortage, which has driven wheat prices to near record levels. Egyptians are not fighting for democracy, they are fighting because they can’t afford to feed their families.

Food is level one on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. This theory states that food needs must be satisfied before moving on to higher levels (levels 1-physiological/food, 2-love/belonging, 3-esteem, and 4-self-actualization). Our addiction to inexpensive food in the First World, by sourcing some of our needs from low-cost food producing countries like China, will only add to the problems we see on the nightly news. We are going to pay for our food, one way… or the other.

John and MarieMILLERFA

RM

TO

TA

BLE


ECho classifiedsDINING

Winds of March we welcome you. There is work for you to do. Work and play and blow all day. Blow the winter wind away. Mylar and Loreta’s Restaurant, Singhampton (705) 445-1247.

FOR RENTNew ROOMS for rent. Furnished. $110 per week includes shared living room, heat, hydro, wireless internet, satellite TV, parking. Linens supplied. No smoking. Call (705) 444-4852.

30 acres of flat FARM LAND in the local area for rent. Call 705-305-9580.

WANTEDFenced PASTURE for 2011 grazing season for cattle. Money paid up front & in full. Contact 705-466-2793.

FOR SALE20” International general PLANER completely rebuilt. 2 HD industrial GARAGE DOOR OPENERS. 705-466-3202.

Excellent square bales of horse HAy $3.50/bale. Delivery available at a negotiable cost. Call Jim Whitley 705-466-3541.

HOSPITAL BED 36x78. Remote controls, head board new. Call 705-466-3127.

GARDENING The love of gardening is a seed sown that never dies. [Gertrude Jekyll] 2 Weeks to go! 3 Seasons Garden Care. Call (519) 938-6197 or email [email protected]

CALL TO ARTISTS Attention all artists in any media in the Georgian Triangle area: The 2011 Clerkson Award deadline for applications is Friday, March 25 at 5 pm. Win $1000 plus 5 finalists will be selected to show their work for a month in the BMFA gallery and receive a free annual membership to the BMFA. Application brochures available in the BMFA Arts Centre or online at www.bmfa.on.ca. Call 705-445-3430 for information.

Spike & Rusty: NIBLICK

1011

9 2 7 1 2 7 6 5 41 7 8 3

4 9 3 6 8

7 2 3 8 6 5 4 7 2

9 4 2 3 8 7 6 5 18 6 5 9 1 4 2 7 33 1 7 6 5 2 9 8 41 7 8 2 3 6 4 9 56 3 9 8 4 5 1 2 72 5 4 7 9 1 3 6 87 9 1 5 2 3 8 4 64 2 6 1 7 8 5 3 95 8 3 4 6 9 7 1 2

THANK YOUWINCHESTER – Thank you sincerely for sharing our sorrow in the recent passing of Gwen. Your acts of kindness, expressions of sympathy and words of comfort are deeply appreciated. We wish to extend special thanks to the staff at the Shelburne Residence Nursing Home, Collingwood G&M Hospital, Sandra Brouillard and our friends and neighbours who provided care and support to Gwen during her illness. Your kindness and compassion will always be remembered. Thank you to the staff at Fawcett Funeral Home for your caring attention during this difficult time. The family of the late Gwenyth Winchester

IN MEMORIAMBLACKBURN, Hazel Agnes Jean (nee Anderson), deceased March 10, 2006. Loving wife of the late Erel George Blackburn. Loving mother of Donna (Steve Winfield), and Robert Blackburn of Barrie. Much loved granny of Jason and Matt Blackburn and families; and Jon, Mark, and David Winfield.

Mom was a very special person who loved everyone and always wanted to be with people. She loved God and was very close to him! We miss you and think of you often. We know you are one of God’s special angels in heaven watching over us!

Love Donna and Steve and family

JORDAN, Kather ine (Kate ) – In loving memory of a mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother who passed away March 10, 2004.

Gone are the days we used to share,But in our hearts you are always there.Life moves on and years go byBut love and memories never die.

Always missed by the Jordan family

$15 plus hst for 25 words or lessSubmit by 5 pm TuesdayEmail [email protected] (705) 466-9906 or Fax 466-9908

Classifieds

Work705.466.9906

[email protected]

DEATH NOTICE DOyLE, James Bruce passed away peacefully on Monday, March 7, 2011 at Creedan Valley Nursing Home in his 91st year. Jim was predeceased by his wife Shirley, survived by his children Jim (Margaret), Helen and Connie (Douglas). Forever remembered by his 6 grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Jim will be sadly missed by all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held at 1 pm on Monday March 14, 2011 with visitation commencing one hour prior at Fawcett Funeral Home – Creemore Chapel. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of choice. Friends may visit Jim’s on-line Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com

Congratulations from your family on your 55th Wedding Anniversary

John & Kay MontgomeryMarried March 9, 1956

TOURS • TASTINGS • BOUTIQUE139 Mill Street, Creemore ON. 1-800-267-2240

You’ll get a warm welcome and

cold beer.At Creemore Springs we take pride in introducingfolks to the great taste of our beer and showingthem how we make it. So the next time you’re nearthe town of Creemore, drop by the brewery,the hospitality is on us.

4174_Cree_BWAd(4.93x2.5)Bv1.indd 1 1/24/08 9:24:44 AM

NEW TO QR CODES?Scan this bar code to view all of myproperties for sale on your smartphone.Visit www.chestnutpark.com/get-qr

Chestnut Park Real Estate Limited, Brokerage393 First Street, Suite 100 Collingwood, ON L9Y 1B3

Office: 705.445.5454 www.chestnutpark.com

Direct [email protected]

Catherine Deluce,President and C.E.O

is pleased to announce that...

Cheryl MacLaurinSales Representative

has won the 2010 President’s Awardfor outstanding sales performance.


Need Water?

Call for more info or to schedule a delivery.705-428-0063

E-MAiL: [email protected]

www.clearviewnursery.com* Local - Collingwood, Creemore, Stayner, Wasaga Beach

*Prices do not include applicable taxes and are subject to change.

Pools • Ponds • Hot Tubs • Cisterns • WellsDust Control • Water Compaction

Bulk water delivery with 3600 gallon water truck.$130.00 per load (local)*

We also offer a watering service for newly planted trees, shrubs and sod$90.00/hr (min. 3 hours) includes water

705 466-5739 • [email protected]

fine homes • additionsquality renovations

CURLING NEWS The second draw of the mixed curling ended on February 20. The winners of the W.A. Gordon Trophy (above) were Catherine and Gord Fuller and Glenda and Kevin Brown. Meanwhile, the NCPS curling program, administered by volunteers from the Curling Club, ended this week (below) with all of the kids excited about their introduction to a new winter sport.

Twenty-eight students from NCPS will be participating in the SCDSB/SMCDSB ice hockey tournament in Oro this year.

The Junior team will take to the ice on Tuesday, March 29 at 10:30 am and 11:30 am. The Senior team will need to sharpen their skates and be ready for some tough competition on Wednesday, March 30 at 2:30pm and 3:30pm.

Both teams will have chances to advance to the next level of competition, scheduled for April 7 and 8.

The coaches, Mr. Weir and Mrs. Myrna Whitley, and students would like to thank NCPS Principal Mrs. Birchall for supporting the two teams this year.

Also a big thank you to the Nottawasaga Junior Farmers, who made a donation to the teams, and the School Council, which purchased team jerseys for the second-year program.

Above, the NCPS Junior Hockey team in front (Grades 6 and 7) and the Senior team in back (Grade 8) show off the home and away jerseys purchased by the School Council. Below, Junior Farmer members Melissa Ferguson and Adam Verstegen, NCPS Junior Hockey team member Jessica Whitley, NCPS teacher and hockey coach Myrna Whitley, and Junior Farmer member Ty Jelinski.

NCPS Hockey ready for big tournament

03112011

Documents

quarry application

gord miller

walker application

original duntroon quarry

duntroon quarry expansion

environmental bill of

general concerns

general questions