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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Exeter Times-Advocate, 1976-11-04, Page 17 ANNIIIMMIININP` MICHELIN Come in and meet your new Ski-Doo® dealer. Come in soon. You'll find service, parts, accessories and sportswear. In fact, everything that's made Ski-Doo what it is today. And, by the way, the new 1977 Ski-Doo models have arrived! You can rely on us to give you expert service on your snowmobile. Dale Hayter has six years experience in the snowmobile business. Our staff of three mechanics are all qualified to service snowmobiles. We're open to serve you 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. seven days a week. DALE'S ESSO SERVICE HIGHWAY 21, SOUTH, GRAND BEND 238-2880 Bombardier Limited Eastern Canada Distribution Division Ontario Branch 11-adeinar (s of Bombardier Limited World's # sellingsnowmobile 4. Appeal to Press Council also Times-Advocate, November 4, 1976 Page 17 Huron Hope entertained -Playhouse directors challenge critic The children who attend Huron Hope nursery school at the Alhambra Hall, were entertained Thursday morning by the members of the Catholic Youth club. The young people brought treats to the children, cut out pumpkin faces for them and put on a skit about a witch and a cat, The Youth club members participating in this event were Diane Rood, Paul Backx, Donna Mennen, Kelly Courtney, Ellen Von Leeitwen, Karen Yeo, Frencine Wiendels and Vaughn Wilde. This correspordent thinks these young people should be com- mended, for taking time off school studies, to entertain these special children. The Ontario Press Council 151 Slater Street Suite 70S Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5H3 Lonr'on Free Press drama critic Doug Bale recently unleashed a scathing attack against the Huron Country Playhouse and this week the board of trustees of the Playhouse have decided to fight back. They've written the newspaper's editor to advise that an appeal will be made to the Ontario Press Council regarding Bale's article in which he termed one of their recent productions a "disgrace". "There is no excuse for wasting public money on a grqup which, at its best, only boarders on the second rate," he wrote after seeing a children's production and he added "one went on ex- cusing incompetence, applauding the rare rise to mediocrity, hoping in vain for the eventual achievement of adequacy". A copy of the letter written by board of trustees chairman W.G. Cochrane, Q,C., to the Free Press and the Press Council follows, outlining their position on Bale's comments: have some element of omnipotent excellence in the field of the arts (1) by tradition, theatre has existed for the entertainment, understanding and com- munication of all people, not for the specific requirements of Mr, Bale or The London Free Press (h) that the newspaper, because of its extensive cir- culation in the market area of the Playhouse, has some respon- sibility to attempt to be fair in the light of its potential influence on the box office, and therefore the existence, of the Playhouse (i) that the newspaper has performed a disservice to the community by publishing such a bitter and vicious attack on an enterprise that has been sup- ported by literally hundreds of volunteers who have donated extensive time and money in an effort to bring live professional theatre to a community that, otherwise, would have ne op- portunity to experience this type of entertainment Gentlemen; CHURCH NEWS Church of God young people, travelled to Westfield, north of Goderich, Friday night, and were joined by three Methodist groups • from Goderich for a Halloween party, Rev, H. Moore's sermon topic, Sunday morning was, "Little things do add up big." The choir anthem was "Hide me 0 my Saviour, Hide me," Sunday was the beginning of Youth week at the Church of God, and several young people assisted with the morning ser- vice. At the Church of God evening service the young people spon- sored a talent night program. (m) because of the obvious financial capacity of The London Free Press, as reflected in the size of its circulation and its extremely heavy content of advertising, the newspaper should be able to afford and should accept same respon- sibility for providing on its staff a competent and constructive critic or critics whose background, knowledge and experience could be of assistance in the development of the arts in Southwestern Ontario. LIONESS CLUB EXECUTIVE—With the receiving of its official charter Friday night, the Grand Bend Lioness Club lost no time in installing their officers. They are, front, left to right, Brenda Heist first vice-president; Sharon Soldan, president; Annie Kadlecik, second vice-president. Back, left to right, Pat Kading, director; Sue Sagemart, treasurer; Shirley Nelder, secretary; Mickey Luther, director; Helen Elliott, director; and Sheila Teevins, tail-twister. Photo by McKinley (j) in view of the growth of the Playhouse box office from 5,000 patrons in 1972, to over 40,000 in 1976,it seems to us presumptuous of Mr. Bale and his newspaper to state categorically, particularly in the field of the arts, that what these thousands of patrons have seen and obviously enjoyed is "consistently shoddy" (k) The London 'Free Press, and Mr. Bale, far exceed their qualifications in attempting to create the impression that they The Board of Trustees of the Huron Country Playhouse requests the consideration and comment of the Ontario Press Council on the enclosed article in The London Free Press headlined "Huron Playhouse production labelled disgrace", From its admittedly prejudiced view, our Board respectfully submits that; (a) the principal point of the article (the demand for refund of tax dollar contributions to the theatre) is unwarranted in the context of a review of a single off- season play. (b) the phrase "current catastrophe" and other ex- cessively derogatory comments do not recognize the considerable enjoyment of the performances by the audiences which can be documented. Mr. William C. Heine Editor The London Free Press 369 York Street London, Ontario Dear Mr. Heine: Grand Bend Personals C. W. L. The Catholic Womens League met Monday evening, with 23 in attendance at the Alhambra hall. President Mrs. Tom Vlemmix presided. .A report on the Deanery meeting held recently in Toronto was given. Plans were made to cater for the car draw and dance to be held in Parkhill Community Centre, November 12th. " It was decided to send plants and Christmas baskets toshut-i its This group will be giving their usual donations to the arthritic bazaar in Parkhill. The travelling prize donated by Mary Mormmersteeg was won by Tony Vandenberk. Next meeting will be December 13, The Playhouse Board recognizes that the field of drama criticism is highly subjective and has a tradition of excessive licence in terms of personal comment as compared to ob- jective reporting. Nevertheless, we believe the enclosed article falls far short of the standards of competent journalism even in this particular field. Our Board would be pleased to appear before your Council at any time to present further evidence and support on this presentation. Your comments and judgement - of the validity of this submission are sincerely and earnestly an- ticipated. Yours sincerely, W.G. Cochrane, Q.C. Chairman Board of Trustees (c) no explanation or support was given for the subjective judgements, "most unimaginative of choreographies", "...choice of performers is inex- plicable...standard for their performances are inexcusible", "It was so bad," etc. Chamber elects new slate, plans brochure, beautification (d) strong personal bias is evident in the suggestions that the Huron Country Playhouse should receive no government contributions, while other companies should A lengthy discussion was held on improving the appearance of the down town area and Don Southcott suggested the Chamber should take the lead in restoring a festive, gay and colorful at- mosphere. It was noted that colorful banners, streamers and sparkling lights could be in- stalled, but was emphasized this should be done tastefully to avoid a garish or offensive look. There was a further suggestion Only one undecided "Margaret, when's the last time you watered the plants?",, Mrs. Margaret Douglas, of Wroxeter, and friends, visited Sunday with Mrs. Leroy Bariteau, Mr. & Mrs, George Latta at- tended the autumn convocation at the University of Western Ontario, Saturday, when their daughter-in-law, Geraldine Latta, graduated with her Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Sociology. Her husband Raymond and son Dale also attended. Jennifer Weigand, spent Sunday at her grandparents home, Mr. & Mrs, Clarke Ken- nedy. Recent visitors with Mrs. Olive Webb were her grandaughters Darlene and friend and Joy and Sally, all of London. Mr. & Mrs. James Prance, were Sunday night dinner guests with their grandson and family, Mr. & Mrs. Garry Desjardine. Mrs. Alan Kraul and Jennifer of Toronto are spending a few days with her father, Mel Peariso. (f) the article is unnecessarily and unjustifiably damaging to a relatively new professional theatre enterprise in rural Ontario (g) that the excessive vin- dictiveness of the writer, Doug Bale, is inconsistent with the general tone of his previous reviews, and with the reviews of other Free Press critics, and with the theatre critics of other newspapers The Board of Trustees of the Huron Country Playhouse has discussed to considerable extent the critical article which ap- peared in The London Free Press on Tuesday, October 26th, en- titled "Huron Playhouse Production labelled disgrace". We believe the material in this article is blatantly unfair to the Playhouse, to the extent that we feel an appeal to the Ontario Press Council is warranted. We note, however that the procedures for presentation to the Council require first that the newspaper be given an op- portunity to satisfy the com- plaint. Therefore, we are en- closing a copy of our submission for your consideration. A delegation from our Board hopes it may have the op- portunity to discuss our position with you personally at the lun- cheon we have requested. In the meantime, and with respect, we ask you to review the enclosed presentation. Yours sincerely, W.G. Cochrane, Q.C. Chairman Board of Trustees Members attending the a annual meeting of the Grand Bend and Area Chamber of Commerce learned the organization has enjoyed and increase of over 300 percent in membership in the past two years. In handing over the presidency, George Kadlecik, expressed confidence that the new executive would keep the Chamber active and productive. Elected president was Bert Albertson, while Don Southcott is first vice-president and Peter Haist is second vice, The treasurer is David Nelder and Tom Webster remains as secretary-manager. The board of directors includes Bob Carter, Mac Dunlop, Doreen Seguin, William Harwood, Mae Morenz, Barbara O'Neil, Cyrilla VanBruaene, Ralph McKinnon, Dennis Mathers, Russell Desjardine, Al Best, Len Hume, Ken Fernald and Jim Mills. Two of the main items of business approved at the meeting called for the production of a full- color tourist-lure brochure for the 1977 season and the landscaping of the traffic circle at the west end of the main street. Some 16 advertising and graphic art companies have been solicited for their ideas in the production of the brochure and a committee will be named to choose the most effective design and make recommendations. It is expected the brochure will cost around $4.000. It was decided by the 33 members present to have advertising included to help meet the costs. A maximum of $900 was set aside for the development of the traffic circle. It has been suggested it include a rock garden with shrubs to minimize damage fromblowing sand. CELEBRATES — Arthur Baker of Green Acres in Grand Bend celebrated his 92nd birthday Wednesday. His wife, the former Alice Pearl Gill will be 91 on November 6. She is a resident at the Blue Water Rest Home in Zurich. They were married on April 25, 1906. Mr. Baker farmed on Lot 36, NBC of Stephen township until moving to grand Bend 22 years ago. 1"-A photo (e) factually incorrect is the suggestion or inference that the Huron Country •Playhouse is either in a much superior position financially or receives relatively higher public grants than other theatre companies that the Chamber could award a plaque to every business that undertakes a renovation or repainting job before the beginning of next summer's season. A motion was passed setting the membership fee at $50 per. business. Dennis Mathers reported on plans for the annual Santa Claus parade. He indicated he would attempt to secure a band for the event and would present a budget and date at the next meeting. The annual wild game dinner and dance is scheduled for November 20 and Russel Desjardine reminded everyone that wild game was still required and suggested anyone hunting with sucess should donate meat for the event. In his annual repent, secretary- manager Tom Webster suggested) some consideration should be.4 given to '#' permanent location for the office prior to the start of sewer construction. He also urged more cooperation from the motel, hotel and cottage owners in advising the staff about available ac- commodation each day. Webster expressed concern over a recent suggestion by Lambton County council to move the Eisenbach Museum out of Grand Bend to a new building proposed for the area of the Pinery park. "The moving of this museum from Grand Bend cannot but do great harm to our community," he predicted, noting it was the centre of tourist attractions in the area. He said he was surprised Grand Bend's representatives on county council did nothing to forestall the decision and he recommended the Chamber present a brief to the county requesting they reconsider their plans and leave the museum in Grand Bend. Date for the next meeting of the Chamber is November 9. Only one member of the present Grand Bend village council is undecided about seeking re-election at the up- coming nominations from November 11 to 15. Councillor Bob Simpson said Monday night, ''I am still betwixt and between on my decision." Reeve Bob Sharen who in- dicated earlier in the year that he would not seek to retain his seat has had a change of mind and will file nomination papers. Councillor Harold Green will definitely be a candidate and councillor Bill Baird's comment was, "I'll likely be in the run- ning." Rollie Grenier who was named deputy-reeve two years ago after several terms of council will be retiring at the end of the year. Wear a poppy for Remembrance Enjoy party on Hallowe'en WINTER RADIALS A Halloween neighbour get together party was held Saturday night at the home of Mr, & Mrs. Jack Allister. Those attending were Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Graham, Mr. & Mrs, Percy Smith, Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Paddell and Mr. & Mrs. Arthur Lee. Euchre was played in the social time. Mrs. Smith won the prize for most lone hands. Surprise packages were won by Mr. Paddell and Mrs. Lee. Yes! We have them in stock! Michelin Winter Radials may be hard to beat, but they're not hard to get. We sell more and more of them every year, to people who insist on the very best in radial snow tires. Michelin Winter Radials deliver that positive handling in deep snow, around slippery curves and on the open road, as well as sure stop/start dependability so crucial to Winter driving. Michelin insists on giving their customers quality. They produce only one grade of tire THE VERY BEST., . carefully built to ensure that they meet the high standards you've aerie to expect from MICHELIN. So, if you're looking for the very best in Winter Radials this year, come in and meet MICHELIN, Don't settle for anything less. When it comes to quality... MICHELIN makes no compromises! Isn't that the kind Of tire you want? Plymoulfi LC*111114-11 Duchy truths 5ALE5/gERViCE &a.LES/SEAVICE Uodgt Personals Mrs. Bill Coxon, accompanied by her daughter Joan Coxon, Kitchener, and Mrs, Jack Bund- scho, Milverton have returned front a 10 day trip to the Eastern States and Florida. Bill Baker, Toronto, spent the weekend at his daughter's home, Mr. & Mrs. Ma/lewd Luther. Mary Lou Grigg, Dashwood spent Thursday night with Alice Brown. An Open House birthday party was held Wednesday for Arthur Baker of Green Acres, on his 92nd birthday and was hosted by his brother Bill of Toronto, Around 65 guests attended, Mr. .& Mrs. Arthur Lee spent few days in Detroit with their son and wife, Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Lee, Mel Peariso has returned home from a holiday in Calgary with his son arid daughter-in-law, Mr. & Mrs, Gordon Peariso. Sunday visitors with Arthur Baker, Mrs, Lillian Brown and Alice were, Mr.Baker's gran- datightet, Mrs. Betty Campbell and his great grandaughters Cindy and Heidi of Detroit. Plymoulfi VitoMpon-Watnet PLYMOUTH CHRYSLER GRAND BEND 2384391 Mon - Fri. to 9; Sat, to 6 NICE PEOPLE tb DEAL WITH" 11111111111111111111111 11111111i-A 11111111111111111111111111111111111 11111111111111111111111111i111111 1111111111111111111111111