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The Citizen, 2007-09-27, Page 3THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2007. PAGE 3. The village was saddened to hear that two long-time residents of Blyth had passed away this past weekend. Doris Hicks who with her husband operated the 5-$1 store passed away on Friday and Doug Whitmore, a life-long resident and businessman passed away on Saturday. Our sympathy is extended to their families. Harold Campbell is a patient in Clinton Public hospital. Marie Button is also a patient in Clinton Public hospital. Lynn Logue is a patient in Stratford hospital. We wish them all a speedy recovery. BLYTH UNITED CHURCH Greeting at Blyth United Church on Sunday, Sept. 23 was Mary Lou Stewart. Ushering were David Onn and Emily Phillips. Guest organist was Elizabeth Stennett. Guest speaker Tom Dunbar welcomed everyone to church with the Call to Much thanks North Huron nominated the Blyth youth activity park for national recognition for significant contribution to community. On behalf of Huron-Bruce MP Paul Steckle, Greg McClinchey explained that the award is to acknowledge volunteers who really go above and beyond to make a significant contribution to their community. From left: former clerk-administrator John Stewart, clerk-administrator Kriss Snell, McClinchey, Ernest Dow, Susan Howson and North Huron reeve Neil Vincent. (Photo submitted) Some 40 people attended the North Huron committee of the whole meeting in Blyth Sept. 17 and heard their village made quite a first impression. A delegation from Stirling visited Blyth at the end of August as part of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs’ First Impressions Community Exchange. They returned Sept. 17 to deliver a glowing report. Economic development officer Kerri Herrfort said, “There were a lot of smiles when people were leaving. The presentation was very positive for everyone.” The visiting team consisted of an economic development officer, a sales consultant and university student, a former clerk administrator and a member of the economic development committee. Having researched the community prior to their visit, they said they knew about the pride in Blyth Festival and expected unique shops around the theatre. They envisioned a small historic village. However, they felt the website could be updated. “The website has incomplete areas and very few pictures of the town. A lot of information on the site that is missing would be relevant for tourists and a good way to advertise the unique shops and attractions,” they said. It is a situation Herrfort said they are aware of. “We are working on this, but we do realize it creates a bit of a problem.” This was a solveable problem in an otherwise glowing report. In the “five-minute impression” the team noted a “very neat, clean and well- maintained” community, beautiful entrances and up-to-date signage. “We loved the overall look and flow of the town. The gardens and landscaping were very impressive.” More time only increased their positive reaction, with most categories, covering every aspect of life in Blyth, scoring from eight to a possible 10. Low points went to only health and social services. The lack of a doctor, dentist, pharmacy or clinic was noted, and more surprising, they felt, in light of the fact that Blyth seems to be primarily populated by senior citizens. The lack of a “visible” daycare or senior citizens housing was also listed. “We were told that many seniors reside in apartment buildings, however with such a large appeal to seniors we think a housing area would be something to consider in the future.” While the retail category generally took top marks, one thing that kept coming back was the exterior of the Blyth Inn. The group felt that the business was perhaps not realizing its potential. “The Blyth Inn could be a huge focal point for the downtown, however, the exterior is not welcoming.” Another issue was the buildings to the north of Memorial Hall, which need “ a few improvements on the exterior.” Otherwise “all shops have beautiful exteriors with great window displays.” The team “loved” the information signs and the historic theme visible in the signage. Stores and clerks were welcoming. “It was a very friendly atmosphere overall.” The campgrounds got positive remarks as well. “It is very impressive”, and the parks were described as “very well kept and inviting for children. In the wrap-up the team said Blyth exceeded expectations. “We actually expected less of the town.” “We were very impressed by the campground area and had no idea this tourist attraction was so developed or even existed in this small community.” They also praised the tourism initiatives that had been undertaken and thought that advertising should be increased to let people know more about Blyth and what it has to offer. They were “shocked” by the overall maintenance. “Not one weed or area that was not overflowing with flowers or well-kept landscaping.” The team was also treated to a production at Blyth Festival which was a “wonderful experience.” For economic development and council the report has left them in an interesting position, said Herrfort. “We have very minor things that were listed as problems. They can be changed. It’s wonderful to have had this because we can jump on those opportunities.” The program, added Herrfort, is to get a visitor’s point of view and with several hundred thousand people coming to Blyth each summer for the Festival she was encouraged by the report. “On the five-minute first impression, they said they got such a great feeling they were happy for the rest of the day. We should be very pleased four people came to our community from four hours away and that was their first thought.” North Huron councillor Greg McClinchey said that while the overall report was “very favourable” he noted it did highlight some areas that need work. “I would encourage local business and other individuals to contact Kerri to discuss these matters and as always my door is open.” McClinchey can be reached at 519-357-8297. Herrfort is at the Blyth Community Centre every Wednesday or call the North Huron municipal office at 519-357- 3550. Blyth makes great first impression CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF NORTH HURON TAXES DUE The 3rd tax installment for the Township of North Huron is due on Thursday, September 27, 2007. Interest at 1 1/4% per month, or any part thereof will be charged on unpaid accounts as of September 28, 2007 and the first day of each month thereafter. NOTE: Persons who have acquired properties and have not received a tax bill should contact the Municipal Office. Failure to receive a tax bill does not relieve a taxpayer from responsibility for payment of taxes, nor from penalty for late payment. Please contact the Treasury Department in regards to the various payment options available. A drop box is available for after hours use at the Township office. 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