ALWAYS A NURSE PAGE 6 SIBERIA TO CANADA PAGE 7 St. Marys Independent 36 Water St. S., St. Marys ON | 519.284.0041 | [email protected] | www.stmarysindy.com Issue #1047 Thursday, March 25, 2021 FREE Black’s Financial Services RAM SPORT JUST $242 B.W. Black’s Financial Services Call us for details 519.284.1340 2017 Ram Sport 4x4 *All rates subject to change without notice* heated buckets, navigation, tonneau, backup cam, 20 inch alum. TERM GIC GIC INSURED wheels, 8 speed auto, hemi v8, push button start, tow pkg., and Are you taking advantage of the TFSA? 1 year 0.85 *All rates subject more, 1 owner clean with clean history, certified with fresh l.o.f 1 YR 0.70 - 3 YR 1.25 - 5 YR 1.73 3 years 1.30 to change without For more products and 5 years 1.65 notice* $ Payment over 84 months at 6.74%, o.a.c, Financial Advice call us today! 34,995 HST & licensing extra Beaver Scouts spring clean up New long-term care beds approved for Kingsway Lodge in WING NIGHT! St. Marys starts this Thursday More long-term care beds are coming to the area, Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece an- March 25th. nounced last Thursday. Reservations are required. Seatings at 5pm, 6:30 & 8:00. Last week the province approved a plan from King- Please call to book you spot sway Lodge in St. Marys to build a brand-new long- at 519 225 2329. term care facility. It will include 62 upgraded beds plus 66 new beds for a total of 128 beds. This is exciting news for St. Marys and our entire GOLF COURSE area,” Pettapiece said. “Demand for long-term care OPENING SOON! beds is high and will be even higher in the future. This new facility will help us meet the demand. It Check out our website for updates! The 1st St. Marys Beaver Scouts met last Sunday afternoon and did a 25 minute garbage pick up around the Flats. The kids collected large black garbage bags full will mean more beds, close to home, for those who Call us for inquiries at of items.They would like to challenge the rest of St. Marys to carry a grocery bag need them,” he added. on their walks around town and collect trash too. (Contributed photo) Kingsway Lodge is one of 80 new long-term care 519.225.2329 projects across the province. In total, Ontario will see 7,510 new and 4,197 upgraded long-term care www.rivervalleygolfandtube.com Vaccine appointments for spaces. It is a major investment: $933 million on top of the $1.75 billion already earmarked for delivery those 75 to 79 opened Monday of 30,000 new spaces over ten years. With the number of people who have al- mier stated that more than 50 percent “Our loved ones in long-term care deserve a com- ready received a first dose of COVID-19 of Ontario residents over the age of 80 fortable, modern place to live, near family and vaccine growing, the Province an- have already received a first dose of friends, with the support they need when they need nounced it will be expanding the list of vaccine and that over 1.4 million doses it,” said Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, Minister of Long- those who can receive a vaccine, ahead have been given across the Province. Term Care. “These new and upgraded spaces, built of schedule. Following Premier Doug to modern design standards, will help prevent and In the Huron Perth Public Health re- contain the transmission of infectious diseases and Ford’s announcement, Huron Perth gion, residents can book a clinic ap- ensure residents have access to the care they need Public Health (HPPH), the Middle- pointment online at www.hpph.ca/vac- in a safe and secure environment.” sex-London Health Unit (MLHU), and cinebooking or by calling 1-833-753- Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) 2098. Pettapiece has repeatedly advocated for long-term will expand COVID-19 vaccination el- care. In September, he spoke about the need for However, on Monday the health unit for igibility to an age group that ranges new local beds in the Ontario legislature: from those who will turn 75 this year Huron-Perth had to close the website to those who are 79, starting Monday, and telephone lines for booking an ap- “I want to thank the long-term-care operators who March 22nd. pointment because of heavy volumes. have put in applications for new beds in Perth–Wel- lington. I have met with many of them and written During this announcement, the Pre- Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2 2 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — Expanding Access to Broadband in Perth County Faster, Reliable Internet will support the creation of jobs and economic growth in Rural and Remote Ontario More than 860 residents and business- work is expected to be up and running connectivity in Southwestern Ontario. vice to 869 homes and businesses in es of Perth County are one step closer with service starting in March 2022. To date, more than 2,140 households Perth County, ensuring that residents to fast, reliable internet access with the These projects are valued at $6.6 mil- and businesses in Southwestern On- can stay connected to work, education signing of five contracts for broadband lion and will deliver reliable internet tario have received access to improved services, and keep in touch with fami- infrastructure. Both the Governments access to more homes and businesses broadband through SWIFT. “Now more ly, friends, and loved ones. Since 2015, of Canada and Ontario have each com- in underserved areas of Perth Coun- than ever, high speed internet access is our government has committed over mitted up to $1.8 million to create more ty. The contracts to expand fibre-optic essential for all Canadians, no matter $205 million to 17 connectivity projects economic and educational opportuni- broadband services in Perth County where they live,” said the Honourable in Ontario which will connect 19,657 ties in rural, remote and underserved were awarded by Southwestern In- Maryam Monsef, Minister for Women more households to better, faster In- areas of Perth County through an im- tegrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) and Gender Equality and Rural Eco- ternet - and we will continue to build proved, modern broadband network. Inc, a not-forprofit corporation initi- nomic Development. “Today’s import- on that progress through our $1.75 bil- Construction of the infrastructure net- ated by local municipalities to address ant project will bring broadband ser- lion Universal Broadband Fund.” Vaccine appointments for those 75 to 79 to open Monday Continued from page 1 able to book online can call 226-289- to welcome those 75 to 79 to our vacci- announcement.” 3560. nation clinics next week.” In London and Middlesex County, as Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of well as Oxford County, Elgin County “We’ve been able to give more than “We are pleased to see the results of Health at Huron Perth Public Health is and St. Thomas, residents between the 16,000 doses of vaccine to those over the early vaccine efforts in our long- also pleased about the expansion. “We ages of 75 and 79 can book an appoint- the age of 80 through visits to long- term care homes and retirement homes are very happy that we are now open- ment by visiting www.covidvaccinelm. term care and retirement homes and where we currently have no reported ing up our clinics further to include ca. While a number of bookings will be appointments at our clinics,” says Dr. outbreaks,” says Dr. Joyce Lock, Medical those 75 and older. We know the impor- available by phone, phone bookings are Chris Mackie, Medical Officer of Health Officer of Health at Southwestern Pub- tance of older adults getting the vaccine highly discouraged due to the expect- at the Middlesex-London Health Unit. lic Health. “Now we turn our attention and look forward to seeing them in our ed volume of calls. Online bookings are “We have the vaccine and a proven pro- to older adults living in the communi- clinics.” highly encouraged. Those who are not cess to get it into arms, so we’re excited ty who have been eagerly awaiting this New long-term care beds approved for Kingsway Lodge Continued from page 1 not-for-profit, and municipal homes— Pettapiece said. “We will need PSWs, In November 2017, Pettapiece suc- we can meet this moment.” nurses, activity coordinators, volun- cessfully fought alongside citizens letters of support. Make no mistake: teers and many others. We will need and municipalities to save Hillside As MPP, I support every single one.” The MPP also highlighted the need for more staff in the sector. them in small towns and in the coun- Manor, near Sebringville, from mov- Pettapiece added: “Working with all try, and all of them will need to be ing its beds to London. long-term-care operators—for-profit, “New homes will need new staff,” prepared for future pandemics.”

7 Day Forecast - Weather Sponsored by TheHITCHING POST Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Mar-24th Mar-25th Mar-26th Mar-27th Mar-28th Mar-29th Mar-30th Cloudy showers Sun/cloud Rain Sun/cloud Rain Sun/cloud Mainly cloudy

c c c c c c c 17 18 9 10 7 3 10 1.05% 0.85% 0.80% Feels Like Feels Like Feels Like Feels Like Feels Like Feels Like Feels Like        1.45% 1.33% 1.26% 1.80% 1.73% 1.73% Market Prices Sponsored by (Cash bids as of Tuesday at 12pm.) 695 Levitt Street, Granton ON, N0M 1V0  #2 YELLOW CORN SOYBEANS  SOFT RED WHEAT Old Crop – $17.68  Old Crop – $7.32 Old Crop – $6.97    New Crop – $5.62 New Crop – $15.11 New Crop – $7.19 

                               

                  St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 3 COMMUNITY — AGM for BIA reflects on challenging yet successful year By Spencer Seymour, Local Journalism BIA levies from the prior year were viewed budget highlights for 2021 and On the expense side, Burnside out- Initiative Reporter reimbursed to property owners, who this was favourably received. “2020 lined that costs are allocated to four The March 15, 2021 Annual Gener- in turn, generally forwarded the ben- was certainly unprecedented... but primary categories: Member Support al Meeting, conducted via Zoom and efit to business owners. Emily Taylor we were able to keep a focus on op- and Engagement ($3,620); Improv- streamed on YouTube to interested came on as BIA administrative as- portunities and initatives that would ing Public Space and Beautification community members, was a smooth- sistant in June, and “she’s been won- boost the economy of our downtown ($8,430, which includes flower bas- ly-run affair that lasted 48 minutes derful”. Next, the painting of the gar- businesses and the mental well-be- kets, Christmas lights maintenance, from beginning to end. bage cans throughout the town with ing of our community in St. Marys. I and various beautification 2021 ini- various displays of artwork brought have to give a lot of credit to the peo- tiatives); Bringing People Down- In attendance were Andre Morin and beauty to the downtown in a creative ple on the board for pulling together town ($17,500, a pillar that includes Kelly Deeks-Johnson from the Town and unconventional way. Then final- and seeing these initiatives through,” the Marketing & Communication of St. Marys, Councillor Tony Win- ly, the Christmas Committee came Burnside said. “Stepping into 2021, Sub-Committee, Christmas Sub-Com- ter, Board members Kyle Burnside, through with a “Hallmark Christmas” we’re seeing a lot of that foundational mittee, Advertising, Santa Claus Pa- Amie Rankin, Gwendolen Boyle, and look downtown with the hanging of framework come to fruition through rade sponsorship, and volunteer rec- Landon Hoare, and administrative as- garland. Hoare noted that a great new sub-committees, and new vision ognition); and Running the St. Marys sistant Emily Taylor. amount of positive feedback was re- as we look to our community for new BIA ($10,450, comprised of several Chairman Hoare reflected on 2020 in ceived with regards to the look of ideas while looking for ways in which items including admin support, HST, his annual activity review. “This year town during the Christmas season. we can do things differently.” audit, and miscellaneous other costs). was a challenging time, and the board Lastly, Hoare mentioned that the BIA The overall 2021 budget showed rev- Between all four main categories, the did what we had to do within the pa- Marketing Committee has benefitted enue of $47,500, consisting primarily BIA budget referenced total expenses rameters we were given,” he said. In this year from some particularly ac- of the annual BIA levy. This was con- of $40,000. response to the pandemic, the COVID tive committee members. sistent with prior years. The BIA budget was unanimously ap- relief fund was launched whereby Treasurer Kyle Burnside then re- proved by the board.

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES IN THE INDEPENDENT CALL 519-284-0041 OR EMAIL [email protected] 4 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMENTARY — Overheard at the Co�ee Shop

Limestones in the Rough: Proudly sponsored by: in St. Marys Spring in Stonetown 201 Queen St E, St. Marys, ON • (519) 284-4555 • OPEN 24 HOURS! By Hannah Everett while it lasts in all its glory. After a very long winter, spring With a significant amount of has finally sprung in St. Marys. greenery in town, considering The grass is visible, the trees are trails and forests, spring is an ex- budding and the mud is abundant. cellent time to make the most of Is the vaccine gluten I've never been so free? Whether one likes spring or not, the early stages of nature's re- happy to be 75! there are many activities that can awakening. Examining the buds be done in the spring that could on trees, finding new flowers and not otherwise be done efficiently watching as the grass slowly but in the winter. surely becomes green can be very St. Marys has many trails for all fulfilling. Furthermore, wildlife is Have you heard something humorous around town that you think might be of interest to others? to walk on, alone, together or with easier to find as birds return and animals come out of hibernation Either email them to us at [email protected] with the title all-too-eager dogs. Through wood- "Overheard at The Coffee Shop", call 519-284-0041 or drop by the office to let us know! ed areas, by the water, downtown, for the winter, making the ecosys- wherever one might please. The tems in St. Marys all the more in- warmth of the sun and the brisk teresting. Bravo Boo breeze of the season make strolls During this springtime, find some- We have one Bravo this week and We have two Boos this week. The pleasurable at all hours of the day. thing that sparks happiness that it goes to the Town who say that in first one goes “Boo to the multi Some of the best areas are the couldn't be found in cold, bleak, light of the exceptionally spring- billion dollar telecommunications Grand Trunk Trail, the cemetery snow-filled days. As many excit- like weather, they have put up two providers for not maintaining and Sparling Bush, just to name ing aspects of spring draw nearer, nets at the courts for tennis and their pedestals which house the a few. Other walking trails can be such as spring break and Easter, pickle ball. The remaining nets telephone, internet and cable con- found in many resources online. there are many limestones to be and windscreens will be set up in nections. Exposed bare wires and Along with spring comes early found and treasured in the com- April as per usual. Residents using broken boxes are potentially dan- mornings and late sunsets. Much ing months until spring melts into the courts are reminded to follow gerous and unsightly.” summer. So, before spring is swept can be accomplished in the morn- all health and safety guidelines. The second one goes “Boo to those aside for school-free days and ings and the sun always aids in inconsiderate idiots who throw out finding the will to get out of bed swimming, find something that their take-out containers and pop and get things done. As for later makes spring a favourite season cans etc. on our lawns and ditches evenings, there are more chanc- and make it last. on many side roads. We take a lot es to get outside after work and Hannah Everett is a Gr. 11 student of time and care to keep our places school and enjoy the sunlight at St. Marys DCVI look nice and it takes time to pick up all this garbage when we are cutting our lawns. Take your throw outs home with you”. The St. Marys St. Marys Independent Independent 36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 THOUGHTS [email protected] OF THE WEEK Phone: 519.284.0041 Sponsored by:

Publisher RADAR AUTO PARTS Stewart Grant • [email protected] 395 Queen Street West Editor in Chief Frank Doyle • [email protected] One swallow does not Graphic Design / Layout make a spring; nor *Please note all Boos and Bravos must be signed in order to Bravos and Boos are submitted by community members and do be considered. not necessarily reflect the opinions of the St. Marys Independent Tyler Carruthers • [email protected] does one fine day. Sales Representative An optimist Owen Lewis-Havard, Sales Representative Stewart Grant [email protected] • is the human Sponsored 150 Queen Street East, St. Marys, ON • 519-852-8453 by: Billing Administrator personification of Coldwell Banker Homefield Legacy Realty, Brokerage June Grant • [email protected] spring. Administrative Assistant Spring adds new life Wendy Lamond • [email protected] and new beauty to all Quote of the Week Contributors that is Pat Payton, Rob Edney, Nancy Bickell, Mary Smith, Marvin Arthur, Spring is when you “Look at me. I’d go to the dog clippers right now because in Nancy Abra, Lauren Eedy, Spencer Seymour, Maggie Richardson feel like whistling, the morning it looks like that. Once we get it open I’ll be the first in line, but we’ve got to be cautious.” facebook.com/stmarysindy .com/stmarysindy even with a shoe full of slush. - Premier Ford, saying why hair salons should remain closed. www.stmarysindy.com St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 5 COMMUNITY — Second dose appointments Stonetown extended for COVID-19 Crier vaccinations Municipal information from the Town of St. Marys In keeping with provincial direction, The decision to extend the time in- Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) terval for a second dose follows the Covid-19 Updates will be extending the time interval recommendations from the Nation- for second doses of COVID-19 vac- al Advisory Committee on Immu- Current Public Health Measures cines up to 16 weeks. nization (NACI). Current evidence St. Marys is currently in the the Yellow (Protect) level of This will mean cancelling most cur- with the Pfizer-BioNTech and Mod- erna vaccines shows high vaccine the Province’s Keeping Ontario Safe & Open Framework. rently booked appointments for Details on what Town services are available can be second doses and offering more effectiveness against symptomatic found on our website. first doses. disease, hospitalization and death from COVID-19 for two months af- The provincial transition to extend ter the first dose, including among The Municipal Operations Centre and Town Hall remain the interval between first and sec- older populations. closed for drop-ins. Prearranged appointments and drop- ond dose came into effect today. box services are available. Please call 519-284-2340 to Extending the second dose interval Booking appointments means more individuals will be able As of March 10, clinics are full. book. Anyone entering any Town facility must complete to receive the first dose of vaccine. HPPH is adding more clinics as a COVID-19 screening form before entering. Details: townofstmarys.com/covid19 HPPH will share more information quickly as possible. Please do not about how to book second doses in call your primary care provider the near future. or pharmacy for further informa- Vaccine Booking Support Line tion. Appointments will be booked Assistance with booking a Covid-19 vaccine appointment What if I’ve already been booked through HPPH. Our booking line at for a second dose? 1-833-753-2098 and our webpage can be reached through our Vaccine Booking Support If you are scheduled for a second www.hpph.ca/vaccine will be up- Line at (519) 284-3930 or dose, it will likely be cancelled; you dated regularly advising whether [email protected]. will receive a cancellation email or appointments are available. Details: townofstmarys.com/covid19 phone call from HPPH. Please remember that vaccinations Community Wellness Program Not all second doses are being ex- are only available to eligible groups. tended. The following groups will There will be enough vaccine for If you’ve been asked to isolate or are doing so voluntarily, continue to receive their second everyone. Anyone who wants to be our Community Wellness Program can safely help you dose of vaccine between 21 to 42 vaccinated will have an opportunity with your essential needs such as: days: to be vaccinated. • Hot and frozen meal delivery Please know that once HPPH an- Residents of long-term care homes, • Delivery of groceries and other essentials retirement homes, Elder Care Lodg- nounces that you are eligible for es and Assisted Living facilities the vaccine, you are always eligible; • Social connection calls and telephone reassurance who are at the greatest risk of both you will not miss your chance to be • Virtual and telephone programming exposure to COVID-19 and serious vaccinated as there will be more op- If you find yourself in need, or know someone who is, illness and death. portunities. please visit our website or call us to learn more. Details: townofstmarys.com/communitywellness or 519-284-3272 Huron Perth General Municipal Updates www.hpph.ca/vaccine COVID-19 Vaccination Council Meeting, Pet Licences & MHSW Event Council Meeting The next Regular Council Meeting will be held on COVID-19 vaccination clinics April 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. This meeting will be live streamed on our YouTube channel and the agenda will be available on our website by the afternoon of April 9, 2021. (born 1946 or earlier) Details: townofstmarys.com/meetings adults 75+ Pet Licences Indigenous adults 55+ Be sure to purchase your pet licence by March 31 to save $10. Prices go up to $30 starting April 1, 2021. other priority groups Details: townofstmarys.com/petlicences

• Appointments online at www.hpph.ca/vaccinebooking or Municipal Hazardous & Special Waste Event The first MHSW event will be on April 10 from call 1-833-753-2098 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Municipal Operations • Eligibility and updates at www.hpph.ca/vaccine or call Centre. 1-888-221-2133, press 1. Details: townofstmarys.com/MHSW Contact us: 519-284-2340 | townofstmarys.com

St. Marys Independent

1/8 page ad | 5.1 x 3.6 | colour 6 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — Always A Nurse By Bill Gladding nurse in full PPE (personal protec- After 45 years of nursing, Cheryl tive equipment) and once screened (Patterson) Long is still working on are sent to the appropriate depart- the frontlines of healthcare. A staff ment. If COVID-like symptoms are nurse at St. Marys Memorial Hos- detected, the patient is isolated pital in St. Marys, Ontario, Cheryl and immediately transferred to the is using her years of experience, as COVID Ward at Stratford General well as this past year dealing with Hospital, their partner in the Huron COVID-19, to help her patients Perth Healthcare Alliance network. through the pandemic. Cheryl says there have been many "I wasn't really that frightened at times before when nursing has faced first," she said about conditions one the unknown – Hepatitis, AIDS, year ago. But when Italy was hit hard, MRSA and SARS1 – to name a few. she realized it was more serious. As But this worldwide pandemic and a member of the more senior staff, a virus that is so virulent has been Cheryl knew that statistics were not unprecedented. "Every day can be in favour of her age group. exhausting," she said. The most dif- ficult and challenging time is when "I was exposed to a positive person she is unable to provide those per- early in the pandemic," she said, "be- sonal touches she had been used to. fore we were wearing masks all day – Hugging to console a family member and no one knew for sure if we would who has lost someone, for example, get sick or even die." Since then she or having to refuse a family member has come to believe that if you wash from visiting, "is also very stressful," your hands, cover your face, and fol- she said. low government protocols, everyone will be much safer. "I really believe, even when the job is at its most difficult, we make a dif- St. Marys is a small hospital with 23 ference," Cheryl said. The collabora- Cheryl Long has been nursing for the past 45 years and is currently working in the patient beds and seven emergency tion between health units has been emergency department at St. Marys Memorial Hospital in St. Marys. room beds. Cheryl joined the staff strong and she is honoured to work Photo by Bill Gladding there in 2009 and has become a val- with an amazing group of physicians, area and was hired full-time at St. ued member of the emergency room reen Patterson. A sister and broth- lab techs, medical imaging, environ- Marys, moving there to live in 2014. team. "Nurses in the small hospitals er now deceased are Tracy Bender mental and support services! "It's a (2010) and Michael Patterson (2018). learn quickly to become a Jack of all great team," she said. "Early on I worked pediatrics and trades," she said. They see all ages of As a youth, Cheryl remembers medicine, then after moving to Elmi- patients and all kinds of problems, As for the community, she is im- spending most of her time at the are- ra, I started back at Grand River and carrying out procedures such as reg- pressed with the resilience of peo- na; roller skating, figure skating and went to critical care," she said. istration, starting intravenous lines, ple and the ways they, as healthcare watching hockey games. She also en- workers, have been supported this Cheryl has three children. Chris and taking blood, doing cardiograms and joyed playing baseball and tennis. his wife Krista live in Collingwood teaching good personal health. past year. Ringing bells and bang- ing pots as well as bringing treats to "For as long as I can remember I with their daughters Gabriella and Since COVID began, the biggest them has been uplifting. wanted to be a nurse," Cheryl said. Tia. Cassie and her husband Ryan change in protocol is the process for When she was little she would watch live in Parksville, British Columbia assessments when a patient enters Cheryl grew up in Tavistock, the el- the nurses at the local medical clin- with their daughter Fiona. Carin and the hospital. They are greeted by a dest daughter of Jim and the late Do- ic and recalls begging for a nurse's her husband Kevin live in St. Marys kit for Christmas when she was five. where they share a home with Cher- "I saved the pill boxes handed out at yl. Carin is a clerical support worker the doctor's office to give 'medicine' for the Happy Valley Health Team, a to anyone who would play along," clinic of family doctors in St. Marys. she noted; "and carried my nurse's With the vaccine rollout earlier this bag with pride." year, Cheryl was able to get her two Cheryl attended Tavistock Public doses of vaccine by February. "I'm School and Waterloo-Oxford Dis- less frightened about the virus now trict Secondary School in Baden. She than I was early on," she admitted. graduated with her Registered Nurse She is currently working part-time diploma from Conestoga College in as half of a full rotation of two days 1976 with the majority of her train- of 12-hour shifts and two nights fol- ing done at K-W Hospital. lowed by five days off. She has had Since then she spent her career both knees and a hip replaced and working in dozens of hospital emer- feels better than ever. gency rooms in southwestern On- When asked about retirement after tario and the Toronto and Hamilton four and a half decades, Cheryl said area. She began at K-W Hospital in she's working on a plan. "I'm strug- Kitchener and was hired full-time in gling with the decision. I don't know Stratford from 1977-81. She returned if I'm ready. Once a nurse, always a to K-W, now Grand River Hospital, nurse," Cheryl said. in 1983, and worked there until 2001 when she became an agency staff Thank you Cheryl for your dedica- nurse in the Greater Toronto Area. tion. In 2009, she returned to work in the St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 7 COMMUNITY — Daniel and Elena Lubimcev grew up in Siberia St. Marys Canadian Tire store owners met in Toronto, married in Canada By Pat Payton translator. In the late 1970s and early It's a long way from Siberia to Cana- '80s, he travelled to the northern parts da. The shortest distance between the of Siberia with an oil and gas compa- two countries is almost 2,500 miles. ny from Canada. It was like a joint venture between the Canadian and Daniel and Elena Lubimcev were both Russian companies at the time." born and raised in Siberia, but they met in Toronto and were married in It was during that business trip to this country. Since early last August, the far north that Daniel's father be- the couple has owned and operated came good friends with a Canadian the Canadian Tire store in St. Marys. man. "He ended up being my dad's best man at his wedding in the early Daniel was 18 and turning 19 when he 1980s," Daniel noted. "He visited (Si- immigrated to Canada with his par- beria) several times over two or three ents and sister in 2000. Elena was 16 years. Unfortunately, he passed away and turning 17 when she came to live before we moved to Canada. But he in this country in 2006. taught my dad a lot about life in Can- 77 per cent of Russia ada." Siberia has a population of about 36 Daniel's parents are still Toronto res- million, almost as large as Canada's idents, and 10 years ago they brought population of just over 38 million. his grandparents over to live with Daniel grew up in western Siberia, them. Elena's parents were living while Elena was raised in central Si- in Moscow when they immigrated to beria. Russian is predominantly the Canada last year. "They just received language spoken. their permanent residence, something we had been working on for several "Land-wise, Siberia covers an area if Daniel and Elena Lubimcev were born and raised in different areas of Siberia, years," he said. Her parents now re- you combine Manitoba, Saskatchewan the vast Russian province. They met in Toronto after their families immigrated to side in Edmonton, where her father and Alberta," he says. "It's 13 million Canada and were married in this country. Since early last August, the couple has works for a large construction compa- square kilometres. It accounts for 77 owned and operated the Canadian Tire store in St. Marys. (Payton photo) ny in the Alberta capital. percent of Russia's total land mass, the Prairies here in Canada. Where but population density is very low. It's and from Siberia," Daniel explained. Five years in Edmonton we grew up in the south (of Siberia), "It's kind of a coincidence, but there's concentrated in bigger cities in the It was in Edmonton that Daniel man- the climate is closer to Calgary, Ed- a sizable Russian community in To- central and western parts of the re- aged a Canadian Tire store for five monton or Winnipeg." ronto, probably around 150,000 peo- gion." years. He and his wife moved to West- He admits that northern Siberia is ple. Siberia encompasses an area that's ern Canada in 2015 to "build and colder, comparing it to winters in the bigger than the United States. "Some people are very immersed in it; operate" the largest C.T. store in the Yukon or the Northwest Territories. they watch Russian-language TV and country. For five years prior to that Daniel grew up in the city of Tyumen, Daniel says a lot of Siberia has a flat read Russian-language newspapers (2010 to 2015), he managed a Canadi- population nearly 750,000, on the landscape, but there are mountains and shop at Russian stores -- all in an Tire store in London. banks of the Tura River. Toronto. But most of my friends were as well. "They are not like the Rocky Prior to purchasing the St. Marys "It's the capital of the oil and gas in- English-speaking Canadians and Mountains, but there are certainly store, Lubimcev went through the Ca- dustry in Russia," he noted. "Most of (from) different nations. Elena was in mountain ranges." nadian Tire training program to some- the oil and gas industry headquarters college where there's all different na- Misconception about Siberia day become a store owner. He says it's are concentrated there. That's the city tionalities." always been his "dream" to become a I grew up and lived in for nearly 19 Daniel says some areas of Siberia are The couple married a year later. dealer and own and run his own store. years." "less safe" than others, just like Toron- to or Edmonton or any other big city. Six-year paperwork process Elena, who has over six years of He compares Tyumen to London, Ot- working experience at Canadian Tire tawa or Winnipeg when it comes to "The rural areas are pretty friendly. Daniel said the plan to come to Can- stores, is also actively involved at the size. The northern parts of Siberia used to ada actually began in 1994 when his St. Marys store. She works both in the have a lot of prisons back in the Soviet parents decided to immigrate to this Elena was raised in the city of Novo- office and on the floor, on cash, and days. A lot of major roads and railways country. The paperwork process took sibirsk, population 1.6 million, on the anywhere else she's needed. were built in the 1930s, almost 100 six years, he noted. banks of the Ob River. It's the largest years ago, using prison labour. People Over the past 20 years, Daniel has re- city in Siberia and the third-largest "I was 12-13 years old at the time, but used to think it was a big scary place turned to Siberia for a couple of vis- city in Russia after Moscow and St. I was pretty fascinated with North where you'd get sent if you're not in its when his grandparents lived there. Petersburg. America . . . Canada and the U.S. In line with the government." high school, we had geography les- "But I haven't gone in the last 10 years, Similar to the Prairie provinces since my grandparents moved here, When Daniel and his family immi- sons and they taught us about Canada. but I still keep in touch with some When people think of Siberia, three grated to Canada, they settled in To- "In fact, there are a lot of similari- high school and university friends. I words usually come to mind -- brutal- ronto. It's where he began working ties with the two countries, in terms also have some relatives there." ly cold weather. Daniel agrees that the for the Canadian Tire Corporation. He of climate, and some of the major in- remote Russian province is cold, but has been with Canadian Tire for 20 dustries like forestry, oil and gas and Most of Elena's family lives in Rus- he's quick to note that it's very sim- years, managing six different stores in natural resources." sia. She returned for a visit 18 months ilar to Canada's winter weather con- two provinces. ago, but it was her first time in almost ditions. Daniel says his father is an interpret- 15 years since immigrating to Canada. Elena, meanwhile, came to Toronto as er or translator, something he studied "It was nice to see my grandparents, "It depends where you are in Siberia," an international student and studied in university, and he has a masters de- aunts and uncles and cousins," she he says. "Generally, the weather there at a college in Ontario's capital city. gree in English. is similar to Winnipeg and Saskatoon. said. "It was really hard for them to let "We met through a mutual friend of It's very similar, the temperature and "He did some work for commercial me go and live in another country, but ours, who also happens to be Russian precipitation. It's almost identical to companies, for the government, as a Continued on page 8 8 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — Council members review Community Improvement Plan 566 Queen St. E. • 519.284.4348 at SPC meeting Senior of the Week By Spencer Seymour, Local Journalism Initiative sections. Some of the most noteworthy high-prior- Reporter ity proposed incentive programs include the Com- Last Tuesday, Town Planner Mark Stone and Di- mercial Conversion Expansion Grant (CCE Grant), rector of Building and Development Grant Brou- Downtown Rental Housing Grant (DRH Grant), wer presented an update on the Community Im- Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant (ADU Grant), and provement Plan (CIP) to the Strategic Priorities Planning Application and Building Permit Fee Re- Committee (SPC), which is made up of St. Marys bate Grant (PABPFR Grant). Council members. Beginning with the CCE Grant, this would offer up Under Section 106 of the Municipal Act, munic- to $8,000 per project per year for small-scale con- ipalities can't aid a manufacturing business or versions of vacant or underutilized space into new commercial project, directly or indirectly, through commercial or mixed-use space. Next, with the the granting of bonuses or total/partial exemp- DRH Grant, up to $5,000 per unit would be avail- tion from levies, fees, or charges. However, under able to help create new residential rental units Section 28(7) of the Planning Act, an exemption and improve existing units in the upper stories states that to carry out a municipality's Communi- of commercial buildings. Third, the ADU Grant ty Improvement Plan, the municipality may make would offer up to $10,000 per unit to help create Our senior of the week is Thelma grants or loans to owners or tenants. new residential rental units outside of the Down- town in existing single-detached, semi-detached, Chambers who will be celebrating Because of this, St. Marys Council directed Town and townhouse dwellings. Lastly, the PABPFR staff to draft a CIP update. Existing CIPs would be Grant would reduce the cost of improvements by her 87th birthday on Tuesday consolidated into one document and modifications offering up to $5,000 for any required planning March 30. Born in Toronto, Thelma would be made to continue developing the down- application or building permit fees. A full chart town by supporting local start-ups and expansion of all potential high-, medium-, and low-priori- has 4 children, 7 grandchildren and of existing businesses, attract new businesses, and ty incentives analyzed can be found on pages six 9 great-grandchildren. promote the filling of vacancies downtown. This and seven of the SPC agenda, available through would also explore options to enable the Town to the Council and Committee calendar at the Town's Happy Birthday Thelma! sell serviced land at below-market value. Addi- website. tionally, the revamped CIP would open the door for new incentives to encourage and support the Based on the presentation, the SPC recommend- If you would like to nominate someone for development of attainable housing, one of the ed that Council direct Town staff to circulate the draft CIP to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Senior of the Week, Contact us at 519-284-0041 Council's top priorities recently. Housing for review, and to initiate the required or [email protected]. Each program was analyzed by Town staff and bro- public meeting upon receipt of comments from ken down into high-, medium-, and low-priority the Ministry. Weekend Quiz

17 Water St. S New Canadian Tire store owners Sponsored by: Gordy's 519-860-8662 1) What was the name of the night club in which Chubby grew up in Siberia Checker first introduced the Twist to the world? Continued from page 7 big hockey fans, and attended NHL games when 2) In which film does the “bravest of them all” character they lived in Edmonton. played by John Wayne constantly use the word Pilgrim? they also know that I'm happy here in Canada." "The Oilers were the team we cheered for, and one 3) The fictional masked crime fighter The Green Hornet is Daniel and Elena said "100 per cent" that they enjoy the nephew of which western hero? of their goaltenders (Mikko) Koskinen used to play living and working in their new country. for Elena's home-town team in the KHL in Russia. 4) Christian Bale has played Bruce Wayne aka Batman in "My better half of my life has been in Canada," he He was their main goalie for a couple of years be- two films. Which other star has also played Batman twice said. "I almost identify myself more as a Canadian fore he joined the NHL. And Tampa Bay's goalie in film? than a Russian. My life is here now . . . my family. (Andrei) Vasilevskiy is from Tyumen; he was born 5) Who was the American author, best known for his Even though I grew up in Siberia, a lot of memories and raised in my home town." creation of the jungle hero Tarzan and the heroic Mars now are more associated with Canada. adventurer John Carter? Daniel also has an Alexander Ovechkin jersey. The "We're very happy in Canada and very much enjoy Russian is captain of the Washington Capitals. "He's 6) What sort of creatures were Laska & Benny who were it." a great player. Not that I have a favourite player, but sent into space in 1958? I've certainly followed his career." Elena's favourite Big hockey fans 7) What is the difference between a meteor and meteorite? player is Edmonton centre Connor McDavid. "He's Daniel and Elena Lubimcev, meanwhile, are both 8) Who discovered penicillin? really good," she said with a smile. 9) Who became US president after John F Kennedy was assassinated? FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO STAY UPDATED! 10) What instrument did Marilyn Munroe’s character play in the movie “Some like it Hot”? FACEBOOK.COM/STMARYSINDY • TWITTER.COM/STMARYSINDY

This week’s answers are found on pg. 27 WWW.STMARYSINDY.COM | [email protected] St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 9 COMMUNITY — Major declines in St. Marys, Perth County mental health found in UoG study of COVID-19 impacts By Spencer Seymour, Local Journalism - Identify emergent mental health and pandemic started to after. Something that surprised Deacon was Initiative Reporter concerns generated by COVID-19; Deacon also broke down the results presented, which had to do with men- The Strategic Priorities Committee, - Provide locally-relevant, reliable, by gender, noting the results found tal health before and after the pan- made up of St. Marys Council mem- and valid data that can be used to ad- that women reported a much steeper demic started, broken down by age. bers, heard a report on the results vocate for funding and development. decline in mental wellness. Specifical- With older community members more at risk of serious health implications, from a University of Guelph study The surveys focused on individual ly, women reported a 55 percent de- that analyzed the response to the crease in excellent mental health, as if they contract COVID-19, it was ex- well-being and mental health before pected that they would display the COVID-19 pandemic by rural commu- and after the pandemic. Responses opposed to a 26 percent fall report- nities. ed by men. This disparity is at least highest decrease in mental wellness. to the survey showed participants re- However, the results found that the Leith Deacon led a discussion on the porting significant increases in aver- in part due to women typically being more precariously employed and, on most significant impacts of the pan- findings of the study conducted by re- age or below-average satisfaction with demic on mental health were felt by searchers at the University of Guelph. things such as physical health, mental average, being paid less than their male counterparts. Both genders re- younger Canadians. Specifically, they The Town of St. Marys promoted the health, personal finances, living ar- found a 75 percent decrease in excel- study heavily through its social media rangements, and personal safety. ported similar increases in poor men- tal health, with a 79 percent increase lent mental health and an 80 percent platforms and, as such, received a re- The results then focused on the mental increase in poor mental health in the port on its findings. The study, which for women and a 76 percent increase health effects of the pandemic, which for men. Also, females aged 18 to 39 18 to 29 age group. This was contrast- collected more than 3,600 survey re- was broken down into more granular ed with a 36 percent decrease in ex- sponses, had five objectives listed: reported an 88 percent increase in data. Overall, there was a 45 percent poor mental health. cellent mental health and a 70 percent - Identify vulnerable populations in decrease in people saying their mental increase in poor mental health among Perth Counties affected by COVID-19; health was excellent from before the Deacon strongly emphasized, howev- people aged 70 to 79. er, that this information shouldn't be - Determine priority programs to sup- pandemic to now. Even more concern- The next step for the researchers, ac- ing, there was a 78 percent increase in taken as a suggestion that men's men- port populations during and post- tal health is less important than wom- cording to Deacon, is to take the quan- COVID-19; people saying their mental health was titative data collected through this poor. This was also broken down by St. en's, and reinforced the need to make men feel more comfortable express- survey and begin doing more quali- - Explore opportunities for the Marys residents specifically, who also tative research, based on the findings. non-sector during and post- displayed similar trends of decreasing ing their mental health issues freely COVID-19; mental health quality from before the and openly. Spring is here, St. Marys and we are here to help you get ready for all the jobs and joys of spring and summer!

Shop our wide selection of yard cleanup and gardening essentials, BBQs and patio furniture, camping, kayaks, kids and adult bikes, spring cleaning and more. Now open until 8PM Monday through Friday for your shopping convenience uo Serce ours: MonFr :00a5p, Sa aoon Le us on Faceboo a aceboocoT S Marys Sore ours: MonFr ap, Sa ap, Sun a5p : 51 210 ellnon Sree Souh, S Marys, 1 10 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — What are your favourite elements of the newspaper? By Stewart Grant and stories from so many generations nered much praise considering that by trying to have different writers Our recent Reader Survey in the St. ago. In fact, many suggestions were it has only been in the newspaper for and a variety of subjects. Another Marys Independent has yielded 88 made that Mary herself should be the a few weeks now. concept that we pulled from the data responses so far. As discussed last subject of a future story in the news- We also had write-in candidates! is that local subject matter is of the week, this is statistically significant... paper. Of these, Looking Back and Matters most interest to readers. just like how national pollsters can Also very popular was the fairly of Meaning were mentioned many In future weeks we will continue to gain a good understanding in election non-specific choice of “Community times. Again, this reinforced the no- dive into the results and share what polls despite only surveying 2,000 Stories”. This is not tied to any one tion that we are doing the right thing we’ve learned. people across the country at a time. particular author but rather it is a Each question was designed with the general concept of St. Marys-based goal of obtaining useful information news stories or community profiles. House fire on Salina Street for us to consider in future editions Consistent with the Boo survey re- of the Independent. For the question, sults shared last week, 80% of re- “What are your favourite elements of spondents consider the “Bravos and the newspaper? (check all that ap- Boos” to be a favourite element of the ply)”, some interesting results were paper. indeed found. Rounding out the top 5 were Business A common thing that many readers Profiles (read by about two-thirds of acknowledged in their survey com- respondents) and the Sports Section ments was that “there is something in (read by roughly half). We all know here for everyone.” that Pat Payton is one of the best writ- It’s OK if not everyone reads “Tuned ers in the business, and one of the re- In”, for example. Personally, I enjoy sults of the pandemic has been that this column because I am interested he has had to branch out beyond the in music history and I always learn sports world, and thus has reached something. As long as a decent per- a whole new group of readers. This centage of readers feel the same way week, for example, he wrote a fantas- (which they do), I feel that it is worth tic article about Canadian Tire store including. owners Daniel and Elena Lubimcev, who grew up in Siberia. “I’ve had so Something that most people agreed many new people come up to me this A house fire at a Salina Street North home was cause for great concern on Mon- upon is that Mary Smith’s “Historic year and tell me that they enjoyed day, March 22. The Independent has learned that while everyone is OK, two pet St. Marys” is an absolute treasure. Out such-and-such story that I did for the cats are being treated for burns and smoke inhalation. To help, visit ca.GoFund- of all our survey respondents, 89% of Independent,” said Pat of his non- Me.com and search for “Vet bills for Joel’s kitties”. As of press time Tuesday, them checked the box that they make sports content. $1,475 had already been raised towards the $5,000 goal. Friend Jordan Gibbs, who a point of reading Mary’s article each organized the fundraiser to support friend Joel Carlburg, said on GoFundMe, “If week. This was the highest of any Like Tuned In, other columns like any of you know Joel, his cats aren’t just his pets, they are his friends/loved ones, column. Many folks, myself includ- What’s for Dinner, From the Garden, and being slapped with a 5k vet bill along with an unlivable home, he could use his ed, are constantly amazed at how she and Oh, the Places We’ll Go! also friends and family more than ever. Please don’t feel obligated, but anything helps comes up with such interesting facts had a strong base of readers. Paul Knowles’ column in particular, gar- at this point!! Thank you.”  

REPAIR & SERVICE Wills and Power of    Attorney are critical to      ensure the orderly   disposition of your estate              Call now for an appointment and          start the New Year with your     ­  €                 affairs in order.                                                 ­€  ‚ €ƒ        „      St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 11 COMMUNITY — HPHA’s COVID-19 Assessment Centre now booking testing appointments on Saturdays The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance’s the province’s online assessment at Booking your COVID-19 Test Emergency Department or call 9-1-1. (HPHA) COVID-19 Assessment Cen- covid-19.ontario.ca/self-assessment/. If you are referred to HPHA’s Assess- Things to know when attending a tre, located at the Stratford Rotary If indicated, call your family doctor to ment Centre, the following helpful booked appointment at the HPHA Complex, is extending its hours of op- be assessed and sent for testing. Those tips are recommended: Use the online COVID-19 Assessment Centre: eration to include Saturdays beginning without a family doctor can call Huron booking tool to book your appoint- Enter the Stratford Rotary Complex at March 27, 2021. Appointments on Sat- Perth Public Health at 1-888-221-2133 ment. It’s quick, easy to use, and means urdays will be available between the ext. 3267. If you are a candidate for the Community Hall Entrance and fol- you won’t have to wait on hold to speak low the signs to Hall D where the As- hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. testing, you will be referred to an As- to someone. This link is also available sessment Centre. You can also get test- sessment Centre is located. Please fol- “Our Team has been proud to admin- on HPHA’s website at www.hpha.ca If low all precautions including wearing ister over 25,000 COVID-19 tests since ed at Assessment Centres if you are you don’t have access to a smartphone not showing symptoms and: a mask, physical distancing and fre- the opening of the Assessment Centre or computer, appointments may also quent hand hygiene. Please note, once and is continually looking at ways to - Your public health unit or the COVID be requested by phone at 519-272- you enter the Assessment Centre, you improve accessibility and timeliness,” Alert app notifies you that you have 8210 ext. 2747. Please don’t duplicate will be asked to remove your person- says Jennifer Rascao, Director Patient been exposed to a confirmed case of your booking efforts. al mask and will be provided with and Care. “By operating on Saturdays we the virus. There is no need to call if you’ve al- must wear a disposable medical grade can accomplish both of these goals - You live or work in a setting that has ready completed an online booking and mask. The time of your appointment and it will be particularly beneficial to a COVID-19 outbreak, as identified by vice versa. Duplication can slow down is the time you should arrive at the those requiring faster access and turn- your local public health unit. assessment centre staff in responding Assessment Centre. Your test should around for employment and schooling to calls and booking appointments. be completed within approximately 15 purposes.” - You belong to a specific group out- lined in guidance from the Chief Med- Please remember that appointments minutes of your scheduled arrival time. If you are a resident of Huron or Perth ical Officer of Health, such as workers are required. We cannot accommodate For more COVID-19 updates and in- and are worried you have COVID-19 or or visitors of long term-care homes, walk-ins. If your plans change, please formation, follow the Huron Perth have been exposed to it, you are en- farm workers, etc. reschedule or cancel your appointment Healthcare Alliance on Twitter or couraged to continue to use the Vir- so that other people can get tested. If Please refer to the Ontario Govern- Facebook, or visit our website at www. tual Assessment Model that has been you are very ill and in need of immedi- hpha.ca. created which involves completing ment’s website for the latest groups ate care, you should go to your nearest being targeted. Last week for Business Excellence Awards There is only one week left for the pub- - Hospitality to a supported cause(s), proven effec- Perth. Nominations can be made by lic to submit their nominations for the - Non-Profit/Charitable tive/successful fundraising initiatives, any individual who knows of a busi- 2021 Stratford & District Chamber of growth, innovation, staff/ manage- ness that has demonstrated business Commerce 25th Annual Business Ex- - Professional ment/volunteer relations and demon- excellence and meets the criteria. cellence Awards (BEA). The Chamber - Commercial strated leadership. Nominations can be made online at the of Commerce BEA Awards offer busi- - Entrepreneur We will then honour one business with Stratford & District Chamber of Com- nesses the chance to shine and are an the Business of the Year award. This merce website: www.stratfordchamber. - Innovation opportunity for businesses to promote business has leveraged innovation com. The nominator should be sure to advancement of responsible business These businesses will be assessed in and demonstrated outstanding perfor- indicate on the nomination form why leadership within the community. The the areas of growth, customer service, mance, effective leadership, respon- they are nominating their choice. organizing committee is seeking pub- innovation, sales, marketing and pro- sive management and quality service Finally, Chamber board members will lic input for the nominations. motion, technological advancement, over the years but particularly in the nominate candidates for the Business community support, commitment and Any business or entrepreneur whom past year. They have also developed Leader award, and ultimately vote on a leadership, employee relations/man- you feel has exemplified leadership, excellent employee-employer rela- winner that will be announced in April agement, and environmental respon- customer service, determination and tionships. and honoured at the Awards Gala. sibility. The Non-Profit/Charitable creativity is eligible to be nominated The nominees must be within the geo- Award will focus on an organization Deadline for nominations is Sunday, in any of the 9 award categories - graphical boundaries of the Stratford & that has made an outstanding con- March 28, 2021. - Retail District Chamber of Commerce, which tribution to the community through includes the City of Stratford, Town of Winners will be announced at an - Manufacturing involvement and dedication to the St Marys, Townships of Perth East and Awards ceremony on Thursday, Sep- community, outstanding contribution - Service South, and the Municipality of West tember 16th.

#2407299 ONT. INC 402 Queen St. W PO. Box 8  St. Marys, ON N4X 1A9  Book your seasonal tire  change today!  Call to book an appointment   Ryan Harris & Bryan Greig  ● 519-284-1302 ● [email protected] ● www.harrisgreigauto.com 12 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent SPORTS — Stonetown Karate Centre celebrating 25th anniversary Sensei Jeremy Lorentz has owned Wellington Street business for the past seven years

Stonetown Karate Centre Sensei Jeremy Lorentz warms up before conducting a virtual class at the Wel- It's a family affair at the Stonetown Karate Centre. lington Street Dojo recently. Lorentz, a Black Belt, purchased the business in 2014. Three years ago, he From left, front row: Sensei Jeremy Lorentz and his had some major renovations done at the Dojo, and it was expanded to a 3,200 square-foot facility. wife Michelle. Back row: Jaron, Jelena, Jenessa and (Payton photo) Jalyne Lorentz. (Payton photo) Part 2 of a two-week feature Parents can also watch their chil- working towards getting their Adult won a bronze medal. He went with dren's classes through large viewing Black Belts this year. Sensei Fred (Keller)," Lorentz re- By Pat Payton windows. At SKC, a student will take approxi- called. "When we took over, we cre- Stonetown Karate Centre Inc. is cele- A family affair at SKC mately four years to get their Junior ated a group to train extra hard (to brating its 25th anniversary in busi- Black Belt -- if they attend every qualify for Team Canada). We gave it ness this year. Today, Jaron, 22, Jenessa, 19, Jelena, more of a push. It's made our young- 17, and Jalyne Lorentz, 14, are all in- class and do extra training, the Sen- Sensei Jeremy Lorentz and his fam- est Jalyne go to more tournaments structors at SKC. All are Black Belts, sei says. Most committed students go ily have owned SKC, located at 29 and tryout events, and it's made her while mom Michelle is a Brown Belt. for their Adult Black Belt between Wellington Street South (post-office the ages of 16 and 18. a better competitor." building), for the past seven years. Jeremy Lorentz obtained his First SKC even has a program for 4 and At the 2019 WKC event in Florida, Former owner Fred Keller started Degree Black Belt eight years ago, 6-year-olds, called the Little Ninjas Jalyne collected one gold medal in Stonetown Karate in 1996. When and then earned his Second Degree Karate class which they graduate into Classical Kata, two silver in Hardstyle Keller retired in 2014, Lorentz and Black Belt five years later. the academy's Junior Karate program Kata and Traditional Weapons, and his family purchased the business at "If it wasn't for Covid, I'd have my at age 7. Other kids age specific class- one bronze in Open Forms (Kata). that time. Third Degree Black Belt, but I can't es offered are: Youth 10-12 years and Jelena picked up a bronze medal in The timing was perfect for a couple go for that right now," he said. "When Teens 13-17 years. point fighting at the Worlds in Florida of reasons. Covid is over, I'll be on track to go for in 2015, while Jaron earned a bronze my Third Degree. When you get your Compete at World events "The opportunity came about and all in point fighting at the WKC event in Black Belt, your journey just starts," All four of the Lorentz children, four of our kids were doing karate, Montreal in 2012. Jenessa made the he said with a laugh. "It's hard to be- meanwhile, have also competed for including myself," he recalled. "We Canadian team in 2014, but the fami- lieve, but there's more to learn." Team Canada at annual World (WKC) discussed it and the whole family ly was unable to attend the Worlds in competitions around the globe. thought it was a really cool idea. They Lorentz says he's proud that SKC is a Germany at that time. were all on board to do it." family-run business. In fact, several SKC members have Local tournaments encouraged earned medals from the World Ka- Three years ago, Lorentz had some "Michelle and I could leave and take rate championships over the past Sensei Lorentz also encourages his major renovations done at the Dojo, a month-long holiday, and everyone few years, including World champion members to compete in the vari- and it was expanded to a 3,200 of our kids could run the karate cen- titles in Point Sparring, Light Con- ous local tournaments that are held square-foot facility. tre without any hiccups," he said. in southwestern Ontario. Over the "They all know the systems, whether tact Continuous Sparring and Kata "We have two training rooms and years, SKC members have brought it's registering new students, operat- (Forms). before we only had one," he noted. home plenty of trophies and med- ing the website, running the classes, "Those World events are big events "Now we can accommodate the extra als from events in Stratford, London, etc. They can take over from me and and provide very hard competition, classes, like the weapons class and Kitchener and Toronto. run the show . . . that's a pretty cool and we've done very well at those," the national team classes. It allows us thing." the Sensei says. "We've also won "I love challenges," he says. "Even to offer more for our students. That some gold medals at the Worlds. virtually, I do live videos for our stu- was the main reason behind the ex- Jaron and Jenessa have their Second dents and create special challenges pansion." Degree Black Belts, while Jelena and "Before we took over the Dojo, Jaron Jalyne are Junior Black Belts, who are attended the World competitions and Continued on page 13 St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 13 SPORTS — Labatt Memorial Park offering public tours this summer New partnership formed between London Park, the CBHFM and Beachville District Museum LONDON – Beginning this summer, ing guests to visit each location and to begin offering tours to showcase Labatt Memorial Park -- home of the explore the entire Southwestern On- its incredible history," McGonigal London Majors and the world's old- tario region. says. "With our recently announced est baseball diamond -- will be of- "Many people aren't aware of the in- investment, as well as this additional fering exclusive behind-the-scenes credible history of Labatt Memorial programming, we're excited for the public tours of this legendary facility. Park, and we look forward to shar- future of Labatt Memorial Park and With a history dating back to 1877, ing these stories with Londoners and we look forward to continually wel- Labatt Park has played an import- many others," says Director Zanth coming guests for years to come." ant role in the growth and develop- Jarvis, of Sport Tourism, Tourism Baseball Hall on the tour ment of baseball in Canada, and now London. Director of operations Scott Craw- thanks to support from the Govern- "We believe this has the opportunity ford is pleased that the CBHFM is ment of Ontario, Tourism London to become another key attraction for one of the destinations on the tour. and the City of London, guests will the city by providing a unique, mem- have the opportunity to get behind "There is so much baseball history orable and educational experience. in southern Ontario, dating back to the scenes, see artifacts, and hear The collaboration with the Canadian firsthand about some of the famous 1838, when one of the first record- Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum ed games of baseball took place in teams and players who have come and the Beachville District Museum through this facility, including Satch- to one of the first-ever recorded Beachville," Crawford said. "This is baseball games, located just outside to create a regional baseball heritage a great day trip adventure for family el Paige, Ty Cobb, Fergie Jenkins, Jes- pass will provide additional tourism se Owens, Deion Sanders and many of Woodstock. and friends that will lead them here opportunities that will benefit each to the Baseball Hall of Fame and Mu- more. Together with these organizations, location while also strengthening the the 'Southwestern Ontario Baseball seum in St. Marys, and then down Along with Labatt Park, Southwest- entire region." the road to Beachville and London to ern Ontario is home to a number of Heritage Pass' will be formed, mar- keting the region as a destination for Adds Division Manager Jon-Paul complete their historic baseball ad- important baseball sites, including McGonigal – Culture, Special Events venture." the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame baseball heritage. This partnership will include a dedicated website, itin- and Sport Services, City of London: For more information on both tours, and Museum in St. Marys and the "Labatt Memorial Park is a gem in Beachville District Museum -- home eraries, travel booking and one ticket please visit www.labattparktours. into all three attractions, encourag- our city and we're thrilled to be able com. Stonetown Karate Centre celebrating 25th anniversary Continued from page 12 our classes," he says. "We have mod- Scouts and Big Brothers. "We teach and community," he says. ified our schedule to make it happen, them what karate has to offer," he for them. Whether they can beat the --To mark the 25th anniversary of but everybody is still progressing and says. challenge, or not, it makes no differ- SKC, Lorentz says a special event learning, which is a good thing." ence. It's just the fact that they are SKC also does demonstrations at may be held in mid-September of challenging themselves. SKC is currently running classes four public schools in the area. "It gives this year. days a week, with special events the our students the opportunity to show "The tournaments are also like that. --If the World Karate champion- other two days of the week -- both the skills they love to do to others Win or lose, it doesn't really matter. ships are held in late October, 2021 in-person and virtual. who might wonder what karate of- It's more important that they have (Covid-permitting), the host city will fers. We love supporting our schools the courage to go out and compete Lorentz has had to learn the "com- be Orlando, Fla. and learn from them." puter logistics" to make everything work and he's taken "numerous" At the present time, Lorentz has courses as a result. "It's an entire end about 80 members at Stonetown Ka- of business you didn't know before," rate Centre. "Pre-Covid, we always he says. "The appreciation from our hovered around 100, so we lost a few," members and the community has he says. "Our average age for Juniors been amazing, so glad we are able to is about eight years old." offer this option." On-line instruction Notes: Due to the pandemic, SKC current- --In-person classes at the Dojo (on a ly offers live, on-line instruction limited basis) returned on March 1. through virtual for all its programs. Even the Adult Karate and Car- --Jeremy Lorentz says Stonetown Ka- dio-Kickboxing programs are offered rate Centre also does seminars--free online. of charge--for organizations such as the Girl Guides, Girl Scouts, Boy "We're still continuing on with all of

How to Listen to st. Marys radio Step 1. Go to www.stmarysradio.com 2. Click play on the online player 14 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent SPORTS — Over 100 players hit the ice as ringette returns to action It was a big week for the St. Marys lestelle-Black picking up a pass from Ringette Association as 106 players Raella Brodhagen and firing the ring sharpened their skates and dusted off past Henderson. Green was quick to their equipment to hit the ice again. respond as Aurora DeVries passed While most played together in the the ring to Abby Martin, who then fall, new players have joined the beat Thistle. SMRA ranks from Mitchell, Goderich Several of these players were former and the sport of hockey to give St. teammates in pre-Covid times. Know- Marys ringette a try. With their first ing each other's strengths and tradi- practice underneath them Tuesday, tional plays resulted in a close game, all 10 groups hit the ice in modified 4 with both sides responding with goals. against 4 game play on Sunday. Hollestelle-Black, Brodhagen and Here are some highlights from the Billie Sedley would tack on another U19, U14 and U12 games. 10 goals through the first and sec- U19 Blue (Cunningham/Unich) ver- ond half after receiving sweet passes sus U19 Green (McCurdy/Gratton): from Avery Jennings and Kierra Watt. Martin and Cammie Lobb combined Teamwork at its best is the best way to add five goals for the Green team, to describe the first match-up against with Leah van Stratten, Payton Blight these two squads. Starting with only and new to the SMRA -- Campbell Penalty shot! Marissa Hawkins tries to score on goaltender Abby Cunningham during five skaters, Coach Jeff McCurdy's Ward and Cali Bambourgh (Mitchell) a St. Marys ringette U19 game at the PRC this past Sunday. (Contributed photo) crew would have been severely dis- -- adding their own singles. advantaged had Grace Shearer not next shift Cripps would get another score to: Green 7 - Blue 6. Dana Croteau (Goderich) set up many one past Frayne. Ward then stretched offered to help them out and switch Missing the games? You can watch of these goals, reading the ice to find the Green lead on a breakaway. Shift- colours. them live from the St. Marys Snip- the open player. At the end of the ing right, she fired the ring under the Liam Beuermann stood tall between ers Ringette facebook page or watch game, the scoreboard read: Blue 12 - stick to boost her team's lead to 7-5. the pipes and offered little open space Green 9. These teams will be back at for this week's summary, which will for Blue to aim for. At the other end, it this Sunday, with two new players On what would be the last offensive feature U10 and U16 in their second Abby Cunningham was put to the test in net. play of the game, Tayla Paulin found games of the Spring Ice season. when Alison Goldsworthy opened the the back of the net to bring the final scoring on a penalty shot. Erika Neu- U12 Blue (Graham/Paulen) versus brand followed, hitting the back of U12 Green (Ward/Cripps): the net to put Green ahead 2-0. Coach Christen Graham's crew hit Rallying behind their goalie, Alia Lin- the scoreboard first when Kacey Gra- let your light shine ton fired the ring past Beuermann to ham found the top corner on a pass narrow the gap. The squads traded from Marci Linton in the opening penalties, too. Marissa Hawkins, join- minutes of the contest. A quick turn- ing Spring Ice from a career of hock- over saw the ring back down in the with the ey, tried her hand at a penalty shot Green zone and this time it was Lily after being hooked, but Cunningham Hollestelle-Black, fed by Graham, made the save. who managed to tuck it behind Blair Christie's pads. On another penalty shot, Jayden De- Boer managed to connect to pull Coaches Jess Ward and Paul Cripps Blue into a 2-2 tie. Green responded settled their girls and set up a beau- with goals by Neubrand and Halley ty play that saw sisters Danielle and Robertson to regain a 4-2 advan- Ryanne Cripps go the distance for a tage. Jill Unich and Mel Martin, both goal. Blue responded with another with powerful shots, got the ring past tally as Deanna Muir connected from Beuermann to help Coach Unich's Hollestelle-Black and Graham to put Blue squad tie the count at 4-4. their side ahead 3-1. WE ARE RECURITING NEW DIRECTORS! Robertson then broke past the Blue Green responded with Madison defence and put Green back in the Crooks passing to Ryanne Cripps. She then found Danielle, who tucked the Our Board of Directors is comprised of leaders from our community. Our lead. With time winding down and members are dedicated, passionate and exceptional at championing our mission the pressure on, Linton hit the back ring under Devanne Frayne's left pad. As time wound down in the first half, of a “Healthy, Active Community”. These dedicated individuals raise and manage of the net one more time to leave the funds, enhancing your experience at the St. Marys Memorial Hospital, Tradition teams deadlocked at 5-5. Peyton Ward tied the score 3-3 after taking a pass from Emma Paulen. Mutual Centre for Wellness to improve health related services in St. Marys and U14 Blue (Myers/Garniss/McEwan) area. Ideal candidates will have an understanding of our community, possess a versus U14 Green (Henderson/Hen- The second half opened with the line passion for healthcare excellence, be available for board activities and have a derson): of Muir, Graham and Hollestelle-Black strong ethical character. A financial and business background would be an asset. working their way through the neu- Unlike the U19 game which saw two tral zone to get a shot past Christie. Expressions of interest can be communicated to: seasoned goalies in net, the U14 game But Green responded quickly again [email protected] was about volunteers. As everyone as Abby Paulen passed to Danielle or mailed to: St Marys Healthcare Foundation knows, without a goalie, 100 percent Cripps who managed to score. So suc- 267 Queen St W, PO 940, St Marys, ON N4X 1B6 of the shots on net go in. Charlee cessful was the play that they ran it Please include a current resume and cover letter highlighting your experiences Henderson (Green) and Mayla This- again with the same outcome, giving and expertise to support our foundation. We’re accepting applications until March tle (Blue) agreed to don the pads for Green a 5-4 lead. their teams and kept the fans on the 31st, 2021. If you require additional information, please call: 519.284.1332 X 3450 edge of their seats. Blue's Brynn Wolfe, quickly answered, An Information Session is planned for April 21, 2021 by Zoom from 7:00 – 8:00pm. flipping the ring over Christie's right Meeting details will be forwarded by email in early April. Play opened with Adrianna Holl- shoulder to tie the score, but on her . St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 15 COMMUNITY — A variety of ways to celebrate spring!

Carter Riddell displays some fancy tricks on his skate Heather Wilson plants her Favourite Dahlia’s in the L-R Tucker Van Bolhuis and Jakob Krausz helping Ja- board. (Nancy Bickell photo) nice Sunshine. (Nancy Bickell photo) kobs Father clean up his yard. (Nancy Bickell photo) AMDSB Releases Summary Report on Student Mental Health and Well-being (YOU MATTER) YOU MATTER is a collaborative, 19, 2021). have their voices heard. When many schools. Researchers identified five youth-focused, community involved 2. MHWB initiatives at schools, students feel isolated and alone, themes from student data about the Mental Health and Well-being which are planned, implemented, the initiative has introduced under- challenges students face when seek- (MHWB) initiative created by the and monitored by AMDSB school standing, acceptance, and support to ing MHWB supports: Stigma, fear of Avon Maitland District School Board teams. students." Highlights of the report embarrassment, accessibility, lack of (AMDSB), in partnership with com- include: privacy, and technology issues. munity agency Rural Response for 3. Ongoing collaboration with com- munity partners. More than 250 grades 6-12 students Future plans include: activities led Healthy Children. The initiative is and approximately 80 adults from by MHWB school teams, ongoing also supported by the Trillium and The “YOU(TH) Matter in AMDSB” across 41 AMDSB schools joined communication between the YOU Tanner Steffler Foundations. YOU report was compiled by a research the YOU MATTER 2 virtual event. MATTER inquiry and school teams, MATTER empowers youth leaders to team from Queen’s and Western Uni- In addition, three dignitaries (Ste- capacity building webinars for stu- support MHWB by developing, lead- versities and provides an overview phen Lecce, Minister of Education, dents entitled Research Rocks, and ing, implementing, and monitoring of YOU MATTER, highlights the Randy Pettapiece, MPP Perth-Wel- involving additional youth, district MHWB initiatives in their schools. It key learnings from the virtual YOU lington, and Lisa Thompson, MPP and community partners. is designed to remind everyone that MATTER 2 event, describes the on- Huron-Bruce) joined to learn about In addition, school teams will come “we all have mental health” and that going support available to students the work. there is a continuum of health and in AMDSB, and outlines the initia- together to reflect, share, and cel- well-being which changes over time tive’s future plans. According to one YOU MATTER 2 student participants ebrate their MHWB initiatives at and in response to situations. The AMDSB Student Leader: “The YOU identified six big ideas that they a virtual event in June. In order to main components include: MATTER initiative has been mean- wanted to learn more about: Coping learn more about this report, stu- ingful and impactful for the students techniques, school plans, supporting dents are invited to complete a scav- 1. An annual YOU MATTER sympo- others, MHWB education, resources, enger hunt to win 1 of 5 MHWB gift sium, at which students learn about of the AMDSB. It has provided an opportunity for students to come to- and stigma reduction. packs. Visit the website address be- MHWB and leadership, and monitor low for more details. To access the the improvement of student well- gether to learn more about MHWB Almost 80% of YOU MATTER 2 and to create individualized school participants identified feeling em- report and learn more about AMDSB ness in resilience and self-regula- mental health initiatives, please visit tion (virtual event hosted on January initiatives in support of mental well- powered to make a difference with ness. It has also allowed students to MHWB in their classrooms and amdsb.ca/mentalhealth. FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES IN THE INDEPENDENT CALL 519-284-0041 OR EMAIL [email protected] 16 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — Town hosting Municipal Hazardous and Special Waste Events First event to occur April 10, 2021 The Town of St. Marys has enhanced South Service Road). Propane tanks/cylinders, solvents, in their vehicles at all times as ma- the Municipal Hazardous and Spe- Items that will be accepted at the stains, Varsol terials will be unloaded by trained cial Waste (MHSW) program for disposal event include: All materials must be sealed and in staff. 2021. Convenient, accessible dispos- Acids, aerosol cans (full), antifreeze their original containers with labels. Please note that the MHSW depot al days will be held throughout the Materials should be transported in that was located at the St. Marys year on April 10, July 24 and October Bases, batteries, bleach the rear of vehicles (trunk, truck bed, Landfill has now been closed, and 23, 2021. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs etc.), and contained in boxes for safe MHSW material will no longer be Events will run from 8:00 a.m. to (CFLs), fluorescent tubes transport and unloading. Vehicles received at the landfill. 12:00 p.m. and St. Marys and Perth with materials in the back or front Fertilizers, fuels, garden and pool For more information about waste South residents can dispose of their seat will be re-directed to a separate chemicals disposal services in St. Marys, vis- hazardous waste at the Municipal area of the parking lot where they it townofstmarys.com/MHSW. Operations Centre (MOC) located Household cleaners, motor oil, can be moved to the trunk or tail- at 408 James Street South (enter off paints, pesticides gate. Residents are asked to remain

Town of St. Marys Council Remuneration for the year 2020 Name: Salary: Spruce Lodge: Cell phones: Mileage: Totals Mayor A. Strathdee 31,089.85 31,089.85

Councilor L. Hainer 15,306.78 600.00 15,906.78

Councilor J. Craigmile 15,306.78 56.16 15,362.94

Councilor M. Luna 16,013.27 667.32 600.00 17,280.59

Councilor R. Edney 15,306.78 600.00 15,906.78

Councilor F. Pridham 15,306.78 917.52 600.00 16,824.30

Councilor T. Winter 15,306.78 15,306.78

TOTAL 123,637.02 1,584.84 2,400.00 56.16 127,678.02

136017 13th Line, RR4 St. Marys, ON 519-283-6614 [email protected] | hendersonyost.com JOHN HENDERSON “John is a 3rd generation broker/owner at Henderson Yost, with a strong farm background and roots in the Kintore area. Graduating from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Commerce, Majoring in Ag. Business, he has served Henderson Yost clients for 7 years and looks forward to carrying on the family business”. St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 17 COMMUNITY — Perth South Council Approves LOOKING 2021 Budget At its regular Council meeting held on March 16, Economic Development: 2021, and after months of deliberations, Perth BACK By Amy Cubberley Additional investments have been made into the South Council approved the 2021 Operating and Perth South Flavour Farm Gate Map program to Capital budget with a 1.48% increase, representing continue to promote local food products. There’s some great snowmobiling an increase in spending of $52,567 over the 2020 Budget. Construction Projects: between Kashechewan and As a result of this increase, residential property Renovations at the Optimist Hall and old Town- Waskaganish ship Office; owners can expect an annual increase of $28 in 25 years ago (1996) property taxes and farmhouse and farmland prop- Road construction projects include: Line 15 be- Three OHMA finals begin Saturday at the arena. The erty owners can expect an annual increase of $62. tween Road 119 (Hwy 7) and Road 122; Road 122 Baird Lumber Peewees host Huntsville at 4:15 p.m., Highlights of the 2021 Capital and Operating bud- between Line 15 and Line 16; Road 112 between the Firefighter Peewees play Huntsville at 6 p.m. and get includes the following: Perth-Oxford Boundary and Line 26; Line 26 be- the Cement Midgets meet Parry Sound at 8 p.m. tween Road 134 and Road 140; Transportation: St. Marys Kinsmen named Steve Grose a life member Bridge construction will occur on Structure 126 on Increased revenues have been realized from grav- at a special dinner meeting at the Community Centre Road 140 between Perth Line 140 and Line 26; and on Saturday evening. Grose has been a member of the el pit operations in Perth South resulting in an ad- Kinsmen Club for 19 years. ditional $83,000 in revenues; Replacement vehicles including two pick-up trucks and a tandem truck. Rev. Rick Horst of the St. Marys Presbyterian Church An additional $23,000 has been included in the ­­Full details of the 2021 Operating and Capital and his Ilderton rink repeated as All-Ontario Curling budget to address the roadside trees that are in Clergy Champions in Kitchener last Friday. poor health and need to be removed; and Budget can be found on the Township’s website. Greg Pellazzari, Luke DeBrabandere, Marvin Arthur, An additional $10,000 has been included for tree Bennett DeBrabandere and Robert DeBrabandere re- replacement. cently enjoyed a snowmobiling trip to Moosonee. Health Services 50 years ago (1971) $25,000 was added to the budget for a Wellness The seven-week Walter Tkaczuk hockey school in St. Fund to be distributed annually by Council. In Marys is attracting students from as far away as Tex- 2021, a $25,000 payment from the Wellness Fund as, Vermont, , and even the Northwest Terri- will be made to the Stratford Hospital Foundation. tories. In addition, a group of 64 boys from Detroit has Planning: booked a full week of hockey following the conclusion of the summer school. Planning costs on the levy were reduced signifi- A youngster (or youngsters as yet identified) went cantly as a result of a shift to a 100% fee recovery FOR SALE on a shooting spree over the weekend, shooting 17 model. Planning fees increased effective March 1, windows at the rear of the DeLong-Schoville plant on 2021 across Perth County to ensure that users of Wellington Street North. the planning services pay for the services. BY TENDER The resurfacing or replacement of the concrete deck at Cadzow Pool is being considered by ParQ. The www.samshomehardware.com present deck is considered hazardous due to chips, depressions, etc. in the concrete. 75 years ago (1946) Town Clerk, J.W. Durr, who has also been the district rationing officer for several years, has resigned. With the first of April only a few days away, the lo- cal beverage rooms have been crowded each day with members of the suds-sipping fraternity. The licenses 4517 Line 11, Perth South of hotel beverage rooms will expire on April 1 and no 100 Acre Farm for Sale By Tender renewal is being considered by the Ontario Liquor Control Board. Perth, Huron, and Peel Counties are Spring has sprung Approximately 100 acre farm located just North of the Town now considered under the Canada Temperance Act. of St.Marys. The plants of the St. Marys Cement Company, Max- Garden Seeds, Soil, Mulch, Fertilizer 94 acres workable, systematically tilled every 40 ft. Corner wells Limited, C. Richardson and Co, and Great Star farm with access from Line 11 and Perth Road 130. Excellent Flour Mill were shut down suddenly on Monday af- opportunity to purchase a productive parcel of land to add to and Grass Seed now available in ternoon due to a power outage. your existing land base. 100 years ago (1921) stock! While supplies last! Tender Deadline: April 15th, 2021 @ 6:00 pm No clue has yet been found as to the whereabouts Terms of Sale: $50,000.00 certified cheque to be held in of Mr. William Milne, who left his home on the Riv- trust. Dwelling and outbuildings NOT included in sale. er Road on the 15th of March and has not been seen For more information or to receive since. a Tender Package, contact Brent On Tuesday night, the large board room at Town Hall Shackleton (Broken of Record) direct was filled to the doors by lacrosse enthusiasts eager to at 519-275-0762 or email brent@ see the lacrosse season opened up. shackletons.ca The Town Hall was bedecked in green and white on St. Patrick’s Night for the Junior Hockey Boys Dance 63 Wellington St. N, St. Marys, ON, N1G 1A6 | Phone: (519) 284-4142 | Fax: (519) 284-3592 WWW.SHACKLETONS.CA and a big success it was! 18 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent HISTORY — HISTORIC ST. MARYS - Restoring 48-50 Water Street South By Historic St. Marys Columnist These two lots were part of the Eedy Mary Smith purchase agreement and continued to On a warm summer evening in 1989, be used for access and parking. the Local Architectural Conservan- As would be expected, interior reno- cy Advisory Committee (Heritage St. vations were just as extensive as the Marys) members and some of their exterior work to make the buildings fit friends met in front of the cluster of for occupancy. Jim Roger Construction buildings at 48-50 Water Street South. had the contract and worked through Lorne Eedy, seen wearing sunglass- the winter of 1989-1990. But by ear- es in this week’s photograph, was the ly 1990, tenants were waiting to take host. He had recently purchased the possession of their new quarters. Peo- property with the aim of renovating ple in the St. Marys area were excited and finding new purposes for the three to learn that 50 Water Street was to be quite different structures. Although home to the Chocolate Factory – a de- there were people who thought he licious business that has been a part would be wasting time and money on of this community ever since. But soon this project, Eedy believed that these after it was established there, Lorne shabby buildings were worth saving, Eedy arranged a switch – the Journal that the stories around this piece of Argus, for decades a fixture at 142 streetscape provided some interesting Queen Street East, moved to Water insights into St. Marys history. storey-and-a-half house to the north, ness, an adjunct to his fruit store on Street and the Chocolate Factory took The oldest of the three was the 48 Water Street South, is harder to Queen Street. Once again, exterior over the old Journal Argus building. two-storey limestone commercial determine exactly. In the earliest sur- restoration – or repurposing – in 1989 The newspaper remained on Water block in the centre. It was built in viving assessment roll in 1869, Wil- involved openings: the barn-style Street until it was sold in 1999. 1857 for James Dinning, a shoemaker. liam Knowlton, a house painter, and door visible in the photograph was re- These three buildings, renovated and He hired local mason, Alexander Mc- his family lived on this property in a placed by attractive windows. given new purpose, were municipally Donald, who had established himself modest frame dwelling. In 1887, it was Old photographs show that at one designated under the Ontario Heri- in St. Marys through his work for the purchased by John Lelliott, a plas- time there were two more buildings – tage Act in 1989. Currently the prop- Grand Trunk Railway, significantly as terer. It remained the Lelliott family both frame dwellings – immediately to erty is owned by Avery Gazel who has contractor for the Junction Station. home for the next 40 years. At some the south of 48-50 Water Street. These made some further renovations to 50 About the same time as he completed point during this time, improvements were demolished sometime in the Water Street South to accommodate the work for Dinning, McDonald con- were made to the house, possibly sig- 1940s and the vacant frontage became her health and wellness business. The structed a stone house farther south nificantly enlarging it and adding the a laneway, providing access from Wa- buildings retain their designation and, on Water Street. He intended it as ornamentation at the peak of the dor- ter Street to the west, or river, side of since 2012, have also been part of the rental property and never lived there mers. the buildings at 50 Water Street South. Heritage Conservation District. himself, but this property at 481 Water From what can be determined from Street South is still known as the Mc- the records, for much of its existence, Donald House. the house offered both commercial James Dinning, the first owner of 50 and residential space. Restoration of Water Street, was born in Ireland in 48 Water Street involved opening the 1831 and came to Canada at the age doorway on the east façade and en- of 21. He was a shoemaker, one of the larging the windows at street level. essential trades in a pioneer commu- The second-storey windows were re- nity. By 1852, he was married to Sarah turned to their original size and dou- Ferguson and had set up his business ble-hung style. On the north façade, in St. Marys. Their first child was born the windows were restored and a in May 1854. When he built the stone picket fence put in place to separate commercial block on Water Street, he the lawn from the asphalt parking and planned to use the ground floor for his drive-through area. shoemaking business and the upper The third building in the project, the level as his family residence. However, long, single-storey concrete-block by 1858, other opportunities present- building at the south end of the group- ed themselves and the family moved ing, is the newest. Frequently, through to Kincardine, selling their new lime- its history, its use was connected to 50 stone building and paying off what Water Street South. On the 1929 in- they still owed Alexander McDonald. surance map, while 50 Water Street is The building had a number of suc- identified as a store, the concrete block cessive owners and even more ten- building is marked as a storage build- ants through its long history. During ing. It does not have a separate street one period in the 1950s and 1960s, it address. Records show that in 1922, served as the St. Marys Cement Work- the property was purchased by Dan ers’ Recreational Club. At the time of Cappa who had a grocery store near- the Eedy purchase, it was a UAP retail by on the east side of Water Street. At outlet. Through the years, the façade this time he may have constructed the had undergone many changes. Using building to use as temporary storage evidence from old photographs, Eedy for crates of fruit and other produce had the doors and windows restored that arrived by rail on the CPR line. to their original configuration and re- He apparently shared the premises placed a small balcony on the second with his friend and fellow merchant, storey. Jack Sgariglia. Sgariglia also used it for storage, particularly for sacks of The date of construction of the frame peanuts for his peanut-roasting busi- St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 19 MUSIC — Put a smile on your face every Monday with Landscape St. Marys Radio Design & Build There's never a bad reason to want Smiles can be hard to come by • or need a smile. Starting next Mon- sometimes, and the world around day, March 29, join Spencer Sey- you may seem full of hate and Excavation mour for St. Marys Radio's new bad news. However, St. Marys Ra- • show, The Smile File Factory. dio has found that there's enough If you follow St. Marys Radio on good news out there from around Trucking Facebook, you may have seen the the world to bring you a new story Smile File stories that are posted every weekday. And now, we pres- daily by the station's account. These ent those stories on the radio, along N.P.D with music that is also sure to make Bryn Luckhardt, stories, whether heart-warming, 7 Meadowridge Court, St. Marys ON N4X 1A9 fascinating, and funny, share one you feel like tapping your foot, sing- common theme; they're going to ing along, or dancing like no one's put a smile on your face. Now, every watching. TO ARRANGE A CONSULTATION Monday at 5:00 p.m., you can hear The Smile File Factory with Spen- these stories, accompanied by some cer Seymour begins Monday, March CALL OR EMAIL US of the most fun, upbeat, and happy 29th and a new episode will air ev- songs ever. ery Monday at stmarysradio.com. 519-272-3408 • [email protected]

EARN EARN

PRESENTS The Smile File $16.99

Desloratadine Allergy Control, 5mg 30 Tablets $8.99

Vitamin B12 Timed Release 100 Tablets FACTORY $6.99 EARN with Spencer Seymour Fiber Laxative with Psyllium debuts Monday, March 29th, at 370gr 5:00 p.m. at stmarysradio.com. 155 Queen Street East, St. Marys ON | Phone: 519 284 1380 Visit us on: Offers valid March 25 through to March 31, 2021 FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO STAY UPDATED! FACEBOOK.COM/STMARYSINDY • TWITTER.COM/STMARYSINDY WWW.STMARYSINDY.COM | [email protected] 20 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COLUMN — OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO: oTENTiks – camping in style Conservation Authority has facilities. Georgian Bay Is- eight southern Ontario parks lands National Park is just with a total of 2,200 camp- north of Midland; its Cedar sites. They will take reser- Spring Campground has 45 vations starting April 6. On sites, while Beausoleil Is- the other hand, the Upper land has several dozen “more Thames and Maitland Con- primitive” campgrounds ­– servation Authorities are now which means there are oc- open for reservations, with a casional outhouses, and no lot of availability, according to available water source. their websites. Thousand Islands Nation- Parks Canada will begin tak- al Park is on the far side of By Paul Knowles ing reservations for most of Kingston – a bit of a drive, but its Ontario parks in the third well worth it for the beauty of There is no doubt at all that week of April (check the web- the St. Lawrence River. And the COVID-19 pandemic has site – www.pc.gc.ca - for exact you will experience the river changed the travel plans of… dates.) The exception to this – because you need a boat to well, everyone who ever trav- is Point Pelee National Park, reach any of the 25 campsites els. which is already taking res- in the park. ervations. But at Point Pelee, White pine trees, granite outcrops and blue water make great One result has been that peo- The third National Parks op- there are no traditional camp- scenery along the Fairy Lake Trail in Georgian Bay Islands Na- ple are exploring more do- tion in this province is Pu- ground for tents or RVs. If you tional Park. (Photo © Parks Canada/ Ethan Meleg) able possibilities, chief among kaskwa National Park, on the stay at Point Pelee, you will be them camping trips. The only north shore of Lake Supe- staying in an oTENTik. add Lake Superior, north mending them, not because problem is – the number of rior. This is definitely not an shore, to their travel wish list. they aren’t wonderful, or be- available campsites is rapidly A what? Well, oTENTiks overnight trip – Pukaskwa is Pukaskwa offers campers the cause you can’t camp (there diminishing. In recent weeks, bring the comfort to camping; about 12 hours from southern choice of “frontcountry camp- are some campsites), but be- Ontario Provincial Parks have they are described as “a cross Ontario, either through Mich- ing”, accessible to vehicles, cause, even before we need- registered twice the number between an A-frame cabin igan (slightly shorter route, with 67 campsites; “backcoun- ed to break out of COVID of reservations, compared to and a prospector tent,” built but not currently possible due try camping”, reached via hik- lock-down, these parks were the same period in 2020. And on a raised wood floor, and to border closing), or through ing or paddling; and – yep – jammed with visitors, and there are many reports of well furnished with beds, and Ontario. Parks Canada’s Eric oTENTiks. traffic was a nightmare. Parks people trying dozens of times tables and chairs. A number Magnan told me Pukaskwa Canada people, pre-pandem- just to get through to booking of National Parks in Ontario is “a great destination for an One more plus to this more ic, were already pleading with sites. have unique accommodations Ontario road trip.” adventurous road trip – it folks to stay away, or at least – oTENTiks, rustic cabins, a takes you through Sault Ste. So the headlines have indi- One of the last trips I was able to come in non-peak times. tear-dropped shaped perma- Marie, an over-looked but cated that most camp sites to make before we were all I’m pretty sure that situation nent tent suspended in mid- absolutely wonderful tourist have already been taken. But locked down involved spend- won’t change, so if you want a air, called an Oasis, or even destination. Stay tuned – I’ll those headlines have missed ing time on the north shore stress-free camping holiday – (at the Rideau Canal National be writing a full column about the fact that National Parks, of Lake Superior, and yes – it avoid the Bruce. Historic Site), three heritage the Sault in a few weeks. and at least some conserva- is a great destination, indeed. homes. Paul Knowles is an author tion authorities, haven’t even In fact, I would go so far as to You may be wondering about and travel writer. To contact opened for reservations, yet. There are three National say that every Canadian who the National Parks on the Paul about travel, his books, or Parks in Ontario that do have wants to get a feel for the Bruce Peninsula. I have de- For instance, the Grand River speaking engagements, email traditional camping, with full roots of our country should liberately avoided recom- [email protected].

Comfortable camping: an oTENTik at Point Pelee National Park. (Photo © Parks Campers chatting at campsite around fire pit in Hattie Cove Campground in Pu- Canada/ Scott Munn). kaskwa National Park. (Photo © Parks Canada/ Scott Munn). St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 21 COLUMN — INSIDE THE NUMBERS: A new season first swings of the year. me the fine art of shanking a getting me started early at it again. Since the ball never March golf is particularly ball, while Sminker explained a sport that they had mixed touched the ground, he fig- special because it’s roughly a that you only need one hand success in. Mom was relative- ured he was still on his first 50/50 chance that the weath- to putt (“does a surgeon use ly consistent (and one of the stroke. I suppose this was one er will allow local courses to two hands for a scalpel?”). Af- few “lefty” golfers at the time) of my early life lessons in cre- be open this early. Since 1988 ter that I was ready to put the but lacked confidence with ative accounting. and not including the 4 years clubs away. But just 106 days the putter, while Dad’s game It turns out that this column spent in Bermuda (where it is of winter later, I was back (and his swing) was all over today was kind of like a round out at St. Marys, on March the place yet he often pro- By Stewart Grant always good golf weather), I of golf. I started with a basic know that we’ve enjoyed local 11, 2012. This time I was the duced memorable shots. On plan, high hopes, and an un- Spring may mean different golf in March in 14 of those 30 teacher, taking 4-year-old one occasion, determined to known ending. While each things to different people, but springs. Sydney out for a round. finally get up that damn hill hole of golf is a sequence of I think that for the majori- on number 7, he took out a Not only were we golfing in My kids started golf young, shots, each paragraph in a sto- ty of us, it is the season that as do so many kids nowadays, 3-iron and nuked it into the ry is a sequence of sentences. we look forward to the most. March this year, but it was parking lot – where amazing- relatively early! St. Marys especially with the outstand- In writing, I often try to let With the snow melted and ing junior programs that they ly, the golf ball rattled off his an element of one paragraph the temperatures suddenly G&CC opened to the public on own car. March 20th, and even had golf put on in St. Marys. My first naturally lead me into my turned warmer, we are wel- round was at age 10 in 1984, Another time, on #8, the hole next paragraph. This happens comed back outside with in- carts running on the 21st. I’ve only noted a couple times in at the par-3 course at the that starts near the club- in golf as well, as we think finite choices of things to do Paignton House resort course house and goes towards the (maybe too much) about pri- to spend our time. the last three decades where we’ve been open earlier. The in Muskoka, just off of beau- hydro station, he pulled a or shots as we set up for our For me, the arrival of spring shortest winter that I can re- tiful Lake Rosseau. The first ball quickly and severely. It next shot. Like my golf round means the start of a new golf call was that of 2011-12. hole there, called “Straight-a- struck a tree about 15 yards on the weekend, today’s col- season. This past weekend, way”, was the shortest hole – out and flew straight back at umn wasn’t about speed, but the weather fully co-operated On November 25, 2011, I 75 yards down the hill. I still him, where he reached up it was about the memories. It in the form of 17 degrees with played a round with Chris remember smacking the hell and caught it. Without miss- took me nearly two hours to a mix of sun and cloud, and Campbell (not the chef, but out of that first tee shot, and I ing a beat, he put it back on write this. I played nine para- the golf courses were packed the curler) and Robby (not was hooked for life. the tee in front of astonished graphs and shot 35 sentences. Rob) Smink. Chris showed with players eager for the I give my parents credit for family members and whacked TUNED IN: Bringing Sexy Back with their songs about being one point. History has been Too Sexy'. The duo owned a Love', before finally ascend- 'Sexy'. Let's take a trip to the kind to the single as Rolling gym in London, frequented ing to the top spot in the first pinnacle of the charts and see Stone Magazine placed the by models who shameless- week of 2012. The song was who is feeling sexy. song at number 308 in its list ly posed in the mirrors. The the band's second number 1 The late 70s saw many es- of the 500 Greatest Songs of brothers had taken to pri- after 2009's 'Party Rock An- tablished rock acts explore All Time. vately mocking much of their them'. The accompanying the disco genre. The Rolling Justin Timberlake spent 7 clientele when Richard took video sees the posse run- Stones, Kiss and Blondie, all weeks in the top spot on the off his shirt and sang "I'm too ning around Venice Beach successfully navigated the Billboard Hot 100 in 2006 with sexy for my shirt." The duo in Speedos. The renowned dance driven craze. Rod Stew- the single 'SexyBack'. The originally recorded the song thespian, Ron Jeremy, makes art's contribution to the cross- track won the 2007 Grammy as an 'Indie Rock' track. Un- a cameo during the frivolity. By Rob Edney over trend was 1979's 'Da Ya Award for Best Dance Re- der this format, they were un- While their silly antics would Think I'm Sexy'. The song cording, on its way to becom- able to attract a record com- give no indication of it, the When former mouseketeer went number one worldwide ing one of the best-selling pany. Reworked as a dance uncle and nephew duo of LM- Justin Timberlake proposed and has become a symbol singles of all time. The song track by a local DJ, it became FAO belong to a royal lineage bringing 'Sexy Back', he likely of that era. Stewart told his has sold over 17 million units an immediate success. 'I'm in the music industry. 'Uncle' meant redefining 'sexy'. bandmates he wanted a song worldwide as of July 2020. Too Sexy' was well-received Redfoo is the youngest son of by critics who cited, the song Berry Gordy Jr, the founder Sexy is both a fluid and sub- like The Stones' 'Miss You'. Timberlake wrote the track Drummer Carmine Appice with producer Timbaland, cit- doesn't take itself too serious- of Motown Records. 'Nephew' jective characteristic, defined, ly, and openly acknowledges SkyBlu is the grandson of the as with beauty, by the behold- responded with a chord pro- ing Prince and David Bowie gression and Stewart added as his inspiration and James its own kitsch. The band em- music icon. er. Sexy is a state of mind. It braced the image portrayed in is a combination of free-spir- the melody and storyline. Lyr- Brown's 1970 hit 'Sex Ma- Dr. Hook has diagnosed her ically, the song tells the tale of chine' for its essence. Critic's the video to the song and em- with 'Sexy Eyes', which may ited, carefree confidence and ployed it as their brand mov- the ability to approach all of "two total strangers" meeting largely embraced the song, explain to Kenny Chesney at a club, and spending the speculating as to whether the ing forward. A string of hits why 'She Thinks My Tractor life's challenges with a posi- followed in multiple coun- tive outlook. Simply defined, night together. Stewart, ever vocalist was being metaphor- is Sexy'. The Stray Cats flirt the storyteller, slips a little ical in his multiple references tries, but they weren't able to with the daughter in 'She's being 'sexy' is to possess attri- replicate that success again in butes that make you desirable humour into the second verse to BDSM. American glam rock Sexy and 17', while The Mo- when he asks for a dime so band Poison released a cover America, leading to the group ments prefer a more mature to others, but most important- becoming known as a 'one- ly, proud of who we are. he can "call his mother." Pre- of the song in 2007 on their woman in 'Sexy Mama', but sumably he shares the flat Wal-Mart sponsored album hit-wonder.' Hot Chocolate see you out In today's world, while phys- with his mom and he is call- Poison'd! It's worth a listen. American electronic dance there, 'You Sexy Thing'. ical beauty is still a valu- ing ahead to clear the way. Brothers, Richard and Fred music duo, LMFAO, topped Sexy does not have an expi- able commodity, compassion, Rod the Mod faced the same the charts in 2011 with their empathy and understand- Fairbrass, better known as ration date. Enjoy life on your pushback that other artists 'Right Said Fred', scored a self-affirming 'Sexy and I own confident terms and al- ing have found equal foot- received over their foray into Know It'. The song was stuck ing. Four of our favorite art- worldwide number 1 with low space for others to ex- disco, and even found himself the 1991 dance classic, 'I'm at number two for 7 weeks, press their own brand of sexy. ists have reached number 1 embarrassed of the song at behind Rihanna's 'We Found 22 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent Riddles - Word Search - Did you hear about mountains? MUSIC BY DECADE: 1980S the kidnapping? Because they PEAK He finally woke up Word List What is the easiest Bon Jovi Why do sharks live in way to be on TV? salty water? Bryan Adams Sit on it Chicago Because pepper When is the best time makes them sneeze. Cyndi Lauper to buy budgies? Duran Duran How did Burger When they're going King propose to his George Michael cheap. girlfriend? Hall and Oates What did the pitcher With an onion ring. Heart say when eggs, bacon Huey Lewis What do you get if you and pancakes were cross some bubble playing baseball? INXS bath and a famous Lionel Richie "Butter up." detective? Madonna Why did the star go to Sherlock Foams. Michael Jackson the bathroom? Why can't you take a Motley Crue It had to twinkle test in the zoo? Phil Collins What stands in the There are too many Prince middle of an ocean? cheetahs Tina Turner The letter E Why can't you play Van Halen hide-and-seek with Whitney Houston U2 TONS OF FUN FOR KIDS EVERY WEEK! Presents The Riddle Kid PET OF THE WEEK OF THE WEEK What is a foot long and slippery?

Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday: 9am-5:30pm A slipper! Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday: 9am -5pm Our Pets of the Week this week are Sunday: 11am-3pm (from left) Orangie (5), Mickey (12), Kayden Brode (8) Clyde (4), and Mayla (2). These CONGRATULATIONS 4 cats are owned by the Bradley “PET OF THE WEEK” family of St. Marys. OWNER YOU HAVE WON Hey Kids... Every Riddle Kid that A GIFT CARD FROM MCPHAIL’S appears in the paper gets a FREE To nominate a Pet of the Week call See store for details MILKSHAKE at the Sunset Diner! The St. Marys Independent at 519-284-0041. 127 Queen Street East - 519-284-4000 [email protected] St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 23 COLUMN — WHAT'S FOR DINNER: Primavera chicken while baking to en- • While potatoes are sim- ed or cast-iron skillet over ¼ c butter, cut into 4 tbsp sure crispy skin. Rounding mering, make the vinaigrette medium. Cook chicken, skin 2 tbsp lemon zest (roughly 2 out this week’s column is a by whisking together Dijon, side down, undisturbed, un- lemons) Spring twist on some home- oil, vinegar and pepper in a til thighs release easily from made fudge which is sure to small bowl. pan, about 4 minutes. Con- ¼ tsp vanilla extract brighten even the dreariest • Drain potatoes and gar- tinue to cook, moving chick- Few drops of yellow food of days. lic, place potatoes in a sin- en around occasionally for colouring *optional, fudge French Potato Salad gle layer on a baking sheet even browning, until gold- comes out light yellow nat- to cool. Mince cooked gar- en brown, about 5 minutes urally. 6 Servings more. Transfer to a plate, lic and add to vinaigrette. Candy thermometer 2 pounds Spring potatoes, Drizzle over warm potatoes skin side up. By Lauren Eedy Method sliced ¼ inch (little thin- and let sit at room tempera- • Pour out all but 2 tbsp fat Spring is here! Although skinned ones work the best) ture 10-15 minutes. Add to a from skillet and return to • Line a 9x5 loaf pan with the weather may not always 2 tbsp sea salt serving bowl and gently toss med-heat. Add leeks and parchment paper. Have all agree with this and tends to in fresh herbs. Serve at room garlic, cook stirring occa- your ingredients prepped 2 large garlic cloves fluctuate, I am always excit- temp or refrigerate and chill. sionally until lightly soft- before starting. ed to see the first signs of Dijon Vinaigrette: Roast Chicken Thighs with ened, about 3 minutes. Add • In a large saucepan, whisk the season which gets me in lemon zest and bay leaves the mood to play with lighter 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Peas and Mint together the sugar and and cook, stirring until fra- cream/milk. Heat over med- and brighter flavours. Since ¼ c champagne vinegar, 4 Servings grant, about 30 seconds. we are spending more time white wine vinegar or cider high heat, stirring constant- 6 skin on, bone-in chicken Pour in wine, scraping any outside, I thought a potato vinegar ly until it reaches a rolling thighs brown bits from the bottom salad would be fitting for boil. 1/3 c olive oil of pan with a wooden spoon. 1 ½ tbsp ground coriander something to bring to dis- Cook wine until almost com- • Turn the heat down to ¼ tsp black pepper tanced gatherings and the Sea salt pletely evaporated (3 min) med-low and boil until a recipe I have included here Fresh Herbs: and add broth, bringing to candy thermometer reaches is by far my favourite. It is 2 tbsp olive oil 234°F, about 5 minutes. Do ¼ c fresh flat-leaf parsley, a simmer. Return chicken to avegan-friendly French po- 3 large leeks, white and pale not stir, if it begins to brown, roughly chopped skillet, arranging skin side tato salad loaded with fresh green parts only, sliced ½ up. Transfer skillet to oven; turn heat down to low en- herbs and a Dijon vinaigrette 2 tbsp fresh tarragon, rough- inch thick roast chicken until cooked suring it's still at a boil. which is quick, healthy, and ly chopped (or sub ¼ c dill or 4 garlic cloves through and juices run clear • Once the mixture reach- light. I’m sure it has been basil ribbons) when poked with a paring es 234°F, remove from heat. noted, as I have mentioned 5 2x1” strips lemon zest 2 tbsp fresh chives, minced knife, 30-40 minutes. Trans- Using a rubber spatula, stir before, my favourite cut of (or sub green onions) 2 bay leaves fer to a plate. in white chocolate, butter, chicken is the thigh as it is 1/3 c dry white wine lemon zest and vanilla un- economical and packs the Method • Recipe calls for 15-20 min- til chocolate and butter are most flavour in my opinion. 1 c low-sodium chicken utes to roast the thighs, but • Cover sliced potatoes in fully melted. The mixture This recipe includes the broth I didn’t feel that was suf- a large saucepan with cold should be thick and smooth. quintessential Spring fla- ficient enough time, so I water, sprinkle in salt and 1 c fresh (or frozen, thawed) If you want a brighter colour, vours of leeks and peas and cooked them longer. Chick- bring to a boil. Add 2 cloves peas stir in food colouring. resist the urge to cover the of garlic, en will not dry out because reduce 1 c mint leaves, torn if large of the broth. • Immediately transfer to heat and Method Small Batch Lemon Fudge the pan and spread into an simmer even layer. Let cool until Sponsored by: • Preheat oven to 350°. Pat 1 c granulated sugar Sudoku for 5 firm, 2 hours at room tem- chicken thighs dry; sprinkle 1/3 c heavy whipping cream perature or 1 hour chilled. Real Estate minutes flesh side with coriander. or until or evaporated milk Remove from pan and cut Broker Season generously all over into squares. potatoes with salt. 4 oz white chocolate, finely Fern Pridham are just chopped Enjoy! tender. • Heat oil in large high-sid- 519 274 2885 For Hall Rentals call Hall A.N.A.F. Unit 265 Manager Terry Heinbuch 23 Wellington St. N. 519-273-0447 519-284-4390

Sun. March 14 - James Ritz, Stratford $50.00

Mon. March 15 - David Loghrin, St Pauls $50.00

Tues. March 16 - Mary Nyenhuis, Stratford $50.00

Wed. March 17 - Sanford Bender, Guelph $50.00

Thur. March 18 - Michelle Luckhardt, Shakespeare $50.00

Fri. March 19 - Arron Thomson, St Pauls $50.00

Sat. March 20 - Dan Lewis, Lucan $200.00 FRASER ASPHALT FREE QUOTES 519-271-5690   Solutions on page 27 PAVING INC 24 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent COMMUNITY — HELP WANTED St. Marys Policing Advisory Committee reviews 2021 police budget By Spencer Seymour, Local Journalism Initiative Re- new body-worn cameras, seeking further clarifica- porter tion on behalf of the public on the reasoning for The Community Policing Advisory Committee the new cameras. According to Foster, the Stratford (CPAC) met last week and one of the top items on Police Board recently decided to move forward with the agenda was their annual review of the 2021 po- the body-worn camera project this year, noting that licing budget and five-year capital plan. the Police service wants to reassure the public that they are transparent and held accountable for their The 2021 police budget proposed does include a actions to maintain public trust. Additionally, the slight increase from last year, moving from just cameras provide the ability to capture evidence at over $1,060,000 to $1,088,294.This number is the the scene of a crime that may be useful in an inves- all-in policing budget, which factors in the park pa- tigation and/or trial later on. trol budget, a cost that was approved by St. Marys Town Council in mid-2020. Another question was in regards to the line item "Contracted Services", with the question being Also as part of the presentation was the police's what services the police contracted out. Deputy five-year capital budget proposal. Three capital Chief Foster clarified that the contracted services projects were listed for 2021, including new soft- refer to the I.T. services used in the police office ware for digital evidence management, body-worn building. There was also a question about the line cameras, and an upgrade to the radio systems. A item for police cruisers' fuel costs, listed at $14,960, mobile computer replacement was listed for 2022, and if that would be enough. Foster noted multiple and replacements of one St. Marys cruiser were factors with regards to this expense, mentioning listed for 2022 and 2023. that the Police have been acquiring hybrid vehi- The Committee was able to ask questions about cles, which has led to a significant decrease in fuel       the proposed budget and capital projects as Police consumption. He also mentioned the Police joining       Chief Greg Skinner and Deputy Police Chief Gerry the City of Stratford in a fuel tender process, which                       Foster were present at the meeting, though Foster would give the Police fuel at a "very good cost."        was the primary responder as he worked more in- In the end, the Committee agreed to recommend to      depth on the proposed budget than did Skinner. Town Council that the proposed 2021 police budget Mayor Al Strathdee asked about the proposal for be accepted as presented.              How to Listen to st. Marys radio        Step 1. Go to www.stmarysradio.com  2. Click play on the online player

Preserve of the Month 10% off all McCully's Relishes FINAL WEEKEND McCully's Annual Maple Pancake Brunch Saturdays & Sundays in March March means Maple Syrup at McCully's and our Annual Maple Pancake Brunch will be an ORDER AHEAD/PICK UP event this year. All meals must be ordered ahead, so please give us a call at the store (519) 284-2564 or email mccul- [email protected] to place your order and we'll give you a time for pick up. Brunch is $10.50 per person. Saturday, 9:30 - 1:00 and Sunday, 10:00 - 1:00

FOR ALL UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION Store hours for March REGARDING FUNERALS DURING COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS, PLEASE VISIT 4074 Perth Line #9 , St. Marys, ON. N4X 1C5 WWW.HODGESFUNERALHOME.CA www.mccullys.ca • 519-284-2564 St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 25 HELP WANTED

Sherman Plumbing Ltd in Mitchell is looking for hard-working Licensed NOW HIRING!  Plumbers and/or G2 Gas Fitters. In addition, there is consideration to all P 2nd-to-5th year plumbing apprentices who are interested in continuing       to learn and grow in an industry that is thriving!  Our business provides product and services in New   Residential Construction, Renovations and Service Work  throughout Huron & Perth County.     Required Skills:     • Plumbing license and/or G2 gas license Fr re ease cac Gra    • Valid drivers license with a clean abstract Fser 519-284-1426 • Strong English communication skills     

• Competent use of hand and power tools • Collaborative CANADIAN BASEBALL HALL • Problem-solving and analytical skills • Decision-making ability OF FAME & MUSEUM • Customer-Service and Interpersonal Skills • Physical Stamina and Strength 2 Site Maintenance fulltime • Excellent Trouble-Shooting Ability Stratford Police Service We currently have openings for the following position: If you're interested in joining a team of hard working individuals with plenty of positions room for advancement, we would love to see you enjoy your career and the Park Patrol benefits of a Small Town Business Owner! Please refer to the City of Stratford website at Contact James McDougall 519-275-0729 or by email: [email protected]. www.stratford.ca for details of the duties for this position, All contact is considered CONFIDENTIAL. minimum qualifications, and application submission – process. Completed application packages for this Park Patrol – position will be accepted until April 9, 2021 at 2:00pm. Please mail or deliver completed applications to Stratford Police Service, 17 George Street West, Box 21041, Stratford, ON N5A 7V4. – We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for testing will be contacted. No phone calls please. Applications will not be –  accepted via facsimile. –

 carepartners.ca Deadlines March 31, 2021.        Cover letter and resume can be emailed to  [email protected] or dropped   off at 386 Church St. S. in St. Marys.    Come Join our Team Palmers Home NOW HIRING NURSES Opportunities available in Perth County Renovations Sign on bonus of $1500! Guaranteed hours/visits! You might qualify for a $10,000 bonus! REPAIR & SERVICE Currently immdiately seeking 2 full-time employees with     Please submit your resume to: construction background for year [email protected]          round positions. We specialize in  siding, soffit, fascia and eaves     installations. Wages are based on ROBSON SCRAP METALS  experience and qualifications.        Now hiring an AZ - DZ Driver     Call 519 301 3931 or   Full-time Monday to Friday email [email protected]   Call 519-284-2800  ­€    ‚ 26 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent BUSINESS DIRECTORY Call 519-284-0041 to inquire BARBER DISPOSAL HEAT/COOL PLUMBING RENTALS Mill Race Barber Co. (Jay the Barber) Phone: 226-661-0222 oson Scra etal 670$5<6  Find me and • InstallInstall Gasgas &and propane Oil furnaces, furnaces and a/c units Book online $&·V8QLWV Open 8 to 4:30 • Service ofboth gas gas & oil& propanefurnaces,  108 Queen St. East in Downtown St. Marys  $&·VDQG)LUHSODFHVfurnaces and a/c units     Monday - Friday ‡,QVWDOO%%4/LQHV)LUHSODFHV • Install/Maintain Ductless 19..  $&6SOLWV+59·V CLEANING ‡+RW:DWHU+HDWHUV*DV D L SAND & GRAVEL Electrical, and Navien Tankless ‡:KROHKRXVHHOHFWULFKHDW Call Joel Drinkwalter  FRQYHUVLRQVWRFHQWUDODLUDQGJDVKHDW MACK’s • Water treatment installation and repairs • Softeners HEATING & COOLING • Iron Filters • Reverse Osmosis Units • Plumbing   206–211 Carling St. Residential | Commercial Repairs • Bathroom Renovations      St. Marys 519-284-0833            St. Marys Lugger Service  RETAIL           Waste Disposal /Bin Rental 1-877-284-2221• BINS-R-US SENIORS Pickup truck service available Can help load EAVESTROUGH INSURANCE COMPUTERS Available now: Ladies jockey briefs, buttons, gutermann thread, DMC embroidery floss, and more.     STORAGE  THORNDALE PERSONAL, COMMERCIAL, STORAGE CITY FARM, RESIDENTIAL, BUSINESS, REAL ESTATE TRANSPORTATION & MORE! 519-902-6534 • [email protected]  www.thorndalestoragecity.com   ­€€       ‚ Sales Representative STUMP REMOVAL  ELECTRICIAN ce: 51222 ell: 51010  MUSIC Email: [email protected] M S STM CONSTRUCTION  or continuedSall, e rnd he all ST. MARYS Globe Educational Services Ltd. • Renovations JESSE MCKAY & SANDY MCKAY • Service Upgrades,  519-614-3879 519-614-3897 Panel changes [email protected] • Automatic backup generator www.globeeducationalservices.com TREE SERVICE       systems, NG,Propane,diesel,    • Electric Motor Repairs and Sales Toni McLean Sales Representative LTL BEAVER Residential/Commercial/Industrial/Agricultural 519-274-1120 Direct 5120 245 Downie St, Stratford, N5A 1X5 [email protected] Bucket truck • Trimming • Stump Grinding •   Proud St. Marys resident!     MORTGAGE    Secialiin in eritae  enovation, installin rick  stone on custom homes as well as secialiin in layin thin Owen Lewis stone for firelace installation FINANCIAL  Owner Operator        Owen Lewis Construction Sales Representative Coldwell Banker, Homefield COUNTRY STORE Legacy Realty Brokerage

[email protected]

TriCounty Economy Bird Seed $12.99 / 25LB ƒ„ †‡ˆ‰Š  Š  €„ www.cathieszmon.com St. Marys Independent Thursday, March 25, 2021 27 SEAMSTRESS CLASSIFIED ADS THANK YOU IN MEMORIAM  Wanting to buy  All Sports cards, hockey, baseball etc. stamps, Beenie Babies and  other collectibles. Highest prices Vanstone MacDonald  paid in cash. Free appraisals, phone A sincere thank you to all those that sent flowers, In loving memory of Craig, a wonderful husband   or text 519-868-3814 cards, food and their condolences with the loss of and father who passed away March 29, 2020.   our grandson, Terry Vanstone. If we could visit Heaven, even for a day, For Sale Don and Marj Maybe for a moment, the pain would go away. Equity Marketing TAKE OUT We’d put our arms around you, and whisper words 2002 F150 Heavy Half Ton with so true, 29 in tall cap, ARE bedslide 2000 pounds. No rust, one owner That living life without you is the hardest thing to $5,900. Call 519-663-2266 do. Hill No matter how we spend our days, no matter what For Rent I would like to thank all my friends, neighbours, we do,      Apt for rent, 2 bedroom, all utilities and family who helped me celebrate my 100th      birthday on March 20th. Your acts of kindness, No morning dawns or evening falls, when we don’t paid, available May 1 $900/mo. Apply think of you.  to Box 433, St. Marys, Ont N4X 1B2 cards, and gifts were overwhelming. Thanks to you a very generous gift will be made to the Sal- We miss you so much vation Army of St. Marys. I am truly blessed to Love always. For Rent have so many wonderful people in my life. Downtown 3-4 bedroom 1,500 sq ft Shelley, Lauren and Derek apt. 3 storey walk up. Utilities with Jim Hill A/C all included. 1 parking spot. Newly decorated, remodeled bath, new kitchen, refinished floors, paint- ed. $2,200 /month References re- quired. Call 519-697-4985

For Lease Looking for someone to take over a 2 1/2 year lease on my 2019 Nissan Sentra. Only 8,600 kms. Please call 519-284-3003

83 Queen St. E., St. Marys ON | 519-274-5750 co China House Restaurant SUDOKU 226-661-8888 Royal Canadian Legion Perth Regiment Veterans Branch 226-661-8889 236 St Marys 202 Queen St E, St. Marys (10% off for cash sales) Hot Dog lunch every Friday at noon WATER TREATMENT STEVE NICHOLSON Easter Meat Draw OFFICE: 519-348-8822 WWW.SMOOTHCRETE.CA Saturday 27 March – all 20 prizes [email protected] will be hams 5 tickets for $5.00, good for all 20 draws

50/50 draw Fresh local veggies, fruits & meats available GORDON DANN QUIZ ANSWERS at wholesale prices PUMP SALES & SERVICE LTD. 5 PM start – come early, seating EVERY THIRD THURSDAY │ 2:30‐4PM 1) The Rainbow Club 1629 Blackmaple Cres. London, ON • N5Y 6L7 limited to 50 people Next Market - Thurs April 15 Authorized dealer for 2) The Man Who Shot Lib- erty Valance. In the theme 66 Chruch Street North Safe pick-up at United Church For more details contact Cindi NOVO 85 Church St., St.Marys  519.508.3663 x1002 song he “was the bravest of WATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT St Marys Online ordering/delivery  [email protected] them all” www.shop.thelocalcfc.org Water Treatment Specialists • Water Softners • Iron Filters • Drinking Water Systems 3) The Lone Ranger • Ultra Violet Light Systems & Distillers Your Fortune Cookie Corner Psychic Reading 4) Michael Keaton Cell: 519-671-0470 If it’s your Birthday this week: & Mediumship 1-800-328-0392 5) Edgar Rice Burroughs Lady Luck is on your side this year, so back your hunches to the With 6) Mice fullest and stay open to taking a leap of faith when enthusiasm Tracey Milne AAHP REPAIRS TO MOST MAKES strikes for best results. A down to Earth lady and an intelligent Available for 7) A meteorite reaches man play key roles. Cheers! Private Sessions earth's surfaces For the rest of us: & home parties YOUR AD GOES A new chapter begins for two men not currently seeing eye to 8) Alexander Fleming eye, and a chance to put past experience into action gets you Helping You Find HERE! CALL 9) Lyndon B Johnson noticed by someone in a position to reward you. Keep goals simple and attainable for maximum response. *Gift certificates nowAnswers available* 519-284-0041 10) The ukulele St. Marys, ON Until Next Week, May Peace and Love be with You All. Namaste Tracey Milne AAHP Available for private & Party Cwww.whatcomesnext4u.comonsultations*Long Distance Specialist T:5" 28 Thursday, March 25, 2021 St. Marys Independent

SET SAIL ON A MUSICAL VOYAGE FRIDAY NIGHTS

Join Rob Edney for the stories behind your favourite tunes Fridays at 6:30 p.m.

Social GREAT SPORTS BANTER AND EVEN BETTER GUESTS! gatherings can T:12" Weekends at 4:00 p.m., listen to Noah Smith and have deadly Tyler Middleton on The consequences. Smitty & Middy Show GO TO CHURCH WITHOUT LEAVING YOUR HOME! Get comfortable and hear the St. Marys United Church's live service, ST. MARYS Sunday at 10:30 a.m. United Church

SUNDAY MORNING MEMORIES Stay home to stop WITH DOUG COOPER the spread of COVID-19. Cruise through your Learn more at favourite classic songs ontario.ca/covid-19 with Doug Cooper. Enjoy Sunday Morning Memories at 8:00 a.m. Paid for by the Government of Ontario www.stmarysradio.com

Cossette MINISTRY OF HEALTH 100% of Final Size Covid-19 Print 5" x 12" None 170909-1_MOH_COVIDWAKEUPCALL_SG_5x- 5" x 12" 170909-1 4C 111170909-1 None Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black 2-11-2021 12:14 PM 5" x 12" None None

Dawn-Marie Mills Violet K. / Evan B Julia Morra / Emma Wright ® Shireen Kok / Robin Osmond

None 1