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HomeMy WebLinkAboutClinton News-Record, 1977-12-01, Page 4PAGE 4--CLINTON NEWS -RECORD, THURSDAY, DECEMBER la 1977 Whcif w e think IIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIlIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIullllllllllllllf llllll11111111111111111111111111111111 - Clean up the Great Lakes Few nations today are truly in- dependent. That is because most of the world's countries are in fact very much interdependent. They need each other - - and this is particularly so in the case of Canada and the United States. The continuing dialogue between these two countries over the Great Lakes pollution problem, for instance, is taking a new twist with Washington trying to extend the scope of the talks. Solutions to the problems of pollution in the Great Lakes are being sought on both sides of the border. Cities, towns and municipalities are building' new sewage plants. The United States is considering a ban on phosphates in detergents and both nations have anti- pollution targets. One area where differences exist is in the degree of anti -pollution police work. The United States is seeking,,at least on paper, a meticulous reckoning of anit-pollution measures by all communities. U.S. officials want stringent standards to govern discharges into contributory rivers whose waters eventually flow into the Great Lakes. This may be costly, but it makes sense. Communities and industries would then have a legal obligation to get discharge permits from the federal Uovernment in Ottawa ' before they could dump sewerage or industrial wastes. Some Canadian experts say this is going too far. They argue that there's little need to worry about every small town or pulp mill so long as their effluents do not degrade the quality of the water. Pollution is something that must be controlled in the Great Lakes, also in the rivers flowing into these lakes and indeed everywhere else. This is a serious global problem that has been caused entirely by population pressures. We tend to forget that a million years ago -- a relatively brief period in our planet's existence -- there were but a few thousand people on earth. They were doubling Only once every 100,000 years. Today there are more than 4 billion people. By the turn of the century, there will be about 6.3 billion. Every individual can help control pollution. Pollution is the result of material benefits people have sought and gained. Now there is a backlash, caused by too many people demanding too many goods and services and then 'being too ill -educated or too unwise to discipline their consumption habits. The dread result of all this is CRUSHING POLLUTION. (from the United Church.) Sugar and Spice/By Bill. Smiler God's a reader Well, it's nice to know that God reads my column. A few weeks ago, a bit daunted after 80 days and nights of rain, I wrote Him a direct and rather petulant letter suggesting that He turn off the taps, that we'd got the message. Boy, He doesn't fool around. If I'd sent the letter by mail, He would not have received it until next spring, when we'll probably need some rain. That's why I put it in a column which he obviously perused during the celestial coffee break. Within 24 hours, He had turned off the showers, brought out the. sun, which I thought .He'd mislaid permanently, and favored his favorite critters with a couple of weeks .of the best, weather we've had since July. Well, Lord, It's been great and we're grateful. But there's only one flaw in the ointment, as we say in literary circles. The weather's been so glorious it has -sparked a round of activities at our place that has me staggering with fatigue and reeling with confusion. As long as the rains poured down, we just sort of huddled around the boob tube and I had a perfect excuse for not getting the last of the grass cut, the leaves raked, the • storm windows on, and various other chores ,too boring and miscellaneous to mention. But the minute that sun came filtering into our soggy lives, the Old Battleaxe whetted her edge and started whittling at me. Spent the sunny Sunday driving to the city and back (could have been golfing) to deliver a couple of outfits our resident dressmaker had made for her daughter, the student teacher, which the latter had forgotten to take last 'time she was here. The dummy.' We found the student teacher in an ad- vanced state • of controlled hysteria, fingernails bitten to the first knuckle, eyes tieing wildly. She was to start teaching next day. My wife was convinced, not without reason, that Kim would go to her first teaching assignment wearing jeans, a T- shirt and sneakers, about all the clothes she's got. I hope she had better luck than one of the student..teachers in our school this week. Poor guy tried to break up a fight in the cafeteria between a couple of massive Grade Twelvers, and was kicked in the head. Anyway, that blew the first nice day. But it was only the beginning. Our front door wouldn't open, our back door wouldn't close, and if you were in the bathroom and pulled the knob to open the door, it would come off and you might be there forever. Then the pole at one end of the clothesline was bowing toward the garage at a' 45 - degree angle. And the squirrels had chewed a hole and were enjoying daily coffee. klatches at 6:30 a.m. Lawn was knee-deep in you know what. Bricks were falling out of the back of the house, four shutters were missing, as were 10 shingles where the guy's took off the ice last year. After a couple of days of "Bill, when are you going to ... Bill, what about the ... Bill, Why don't you call, .. " I was forced into action. I told the old lady to call our neigh- bor, a contractor. I personally contacted my Grade 9 leaf -raker. I ran into Mike at the liquor store and mentioned the storm windows. Well, sir, things began to happen around here. Our front door opens and the back one closes. You can go into the bathroom and know you won't be there for days. The clothesline pole no longer looks like a postcoital phallic symbol. The storm windows are on. The lawn is raked. Even the squirrels are frustrated by a piece of tin over their hole. You might think I'd feel pretty good. But right in the middle of all this executive organization of mine, my wife got us into one of those log jams we have about once a year. She decided to get the living room rug cleaned. Quite simple, really,. It's just a little old Indian rug, 12 by 18, that can be rolled up and carried anywhere by six men and a camel. She.arranged for it to be picked up. Then she decided to have the hardwood floor done while the rug was away. She lined up a floor man. She decided the under - rug was ready for the dump, which it was. She called the under -rug man. Then she learned that the floor finisher had to- have all the furniture out of the living room, to operate his sander. 'this required a couple of moving men, as I have a sore back. We decided to take the chesterfield and the dining room table out through the French doors and leave them either in the back yard or the garage, covered with plastic. This was vetoed by cooler heads, of which there were very few left, by this time. Oh we had a busy busy Hallowe'en, I can tell you, The sanding machine was roaring like a bull moose in the living room. You had to vault over the chesterfield to answer the trick -or -treaters. And the latter set fire to a vast pile of dry leaves out at the curb, with a nice breeze blowing, and the neigh- bors phoned the fire department, reluctant to see my garage, and two vintage used cars go up in a pa -boom ! We've weathered the storm. Through sheer executive genius, I got all the right people in the right places at the right time, I,haven't lifted so much as an ash tray, and after having a tooth extracted, I found that I couldn't eat for a few hours, but could manage a little straight rye sucked through a straw. ' But next time , Lord, please don't be so literal -minded. Those Indian summers get my wife so excited she'll be the death of me. And I still have to pay off Jim and his carpenters, Mike and his helper, the rug cleaners, the floor sanders, the under -rug people, and the leaf raker. If someone said to me "Get thee to a nunnery," I'd probably take him up on it. And find that the nuns were having the whole convent redecorated. The Clinton Nows•Recbrd Is published each Thursday at P.O. Box 39, Clinton, Ontario, Canada, NOM ILO, Member, Ontario Weekly Newspaper Association 1t Is registered as second class mall by the post• office under the permit number 0817. Tho Nows•Rocord Incorporated In 1924 the . Huron News -Record, founded In 1881, and The Clinton Now Era, founded In 1863. Total press run 3,300. Clinton News-Recol'(1 Member Canadian Community Newspaper Association Display advertising rates evehlable on request. Ask for Rata Card No. 8 effective Oct. 1, 1,77. General Manager. J. Howard Aitken Editor • James E. Fitzgerald Advertising Director • Gary L. Hoist News editor . Shelley McPhee Office Manager . Margaret Gibb Circulation - Freda McLeod Accounting . Marian Willson Subscription Rate: Canada .'13 per year U.S.A. •'17.00 Other . '20.00 rr `,`How long have you had this feeling that no one's following you, your phone isn't being tapped, your mail isn't being tampered with, there isn't a file on you... ?" Odds 'n' ends - by Elaine Townshend A look at Goderich Township A Historical Atlas of Huron County was compiled, drawn and published from personal examinations and sur- veys by H. Belden and Co. in 1879. In 1972, the original work was edited _by Ross Cumming of Port Elgin, and an off- set edition was released by Richardson, Bond and Wright Ltd. of Owen Sound. The book includes an historical sketch of each town, village and township within the county. I notice that almost every description ends on a com- plimentary note, but I am particularly interested in the paragraphs describing Goderich Township, the oldest township in the county. These are the final lines: "The surface of this township undulates gently in the interior, blot near the lake itAvery ,,,very level, except where broken by ipstasional. ravines. In point of wealth tk.;people rank at least third in the list of Huron County townships, while' from an in- tellectual point of view they are un- surpassed by those of any other town- ship. In short, the township contains in an eminent degree all the elements of intelligence, respectability and prosperity." Because I was raised in Goderich Township, I like to think Belden's ob- servations remained true over the years. The township continued to progress, and this year it added another distinction to its list - the adoption of its own crest. 'A recreation committee was formed four years ago to promote community involvement in_ recreation and social activities, and one of its projects last year was the establishment of a town- ship crest. A contest was held to gather ideas, and a local artist was asked to assist in the design. The result was a colourfulemblem, representative of the dominant features of the township. For example, the crest is in the shape of a stylized apple, referring to the fruit growers of the township. Another feature is a sunset over water, remin- ding everyone that some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world are found along the Lake Huron shoreline between Bayfield and Goderich. The colour green represents the agricultural land; a tractor shows the farmers' method of cultivation, and two sprigs of wheat symbolize the produce. The final feature is a snowflake, which needs no ex- planation. The crest became official in November of this year, and the recreation committee presented the first 514 one to the artist, Arie VanDer Ende, in recognition of his contribution to its design. The presentation was made at a card party, and the committee asked me to take some photos for the local newspapers. During the speeches, I felt jubilant because" I had not completely failed at playing euchre and because my camera seemed to be working properly. With the end of the acceptance speech, I was ready for lunch, but the Reeve began talking about the second complimentary crest to be presented. I presumed the committee had just forgotten to tell me about it, and I prepared to take more pictures. To my surprise, the recipient was me. Not only are the modern residents of Goderich Township generous, but they are also crafty! Why did they -give me a crest? Darned if I know! I can't think of any significant contribution that I've made, but I am honoured by the gesture and proud to wear the emblem. Besides, 'who am I to argue with the residents of a township that, since 1879 has contained "in an eminent degree all the elements of, intelligence, respec- tability and prosperity"? From our early files . • • • • • • 5 YEARS AGO November.30, 1972 After 25 years, Frank and Ena Cook are sayinggoodbye to the Hotel Clinton. Plans were finalized last week to sell the hotel to Des and Helen Cassidy of London. The new owners move in on Sunday night. Frank bought the hotel in 19•:7 along with his cousin Glen. They ran the hotel together until Glen's death in 1957. Frank carried out extensive renovations to it in 1964. Reeve Hugh Flynn , Hullett Township announced on Thur- sday that he will challenge for the 'position of Warden of Huron County in 1973. The popular Londesboro-area farmer has been a member of the Hullett council since 1959 and became reeve in 1967 when then - reeve Clare Vincent resigned to take the position as township clerk -treasurer. He said he had been working hard for his community for many years and felt he would like a chance at the top position in the county. Reeve Roy Pattison of East Wawanosh has already indicated he would try to become warden and Mr. Flynn said he understood Reeve Ed Oddliefson of Bayfield also had his eye on the job. Clinton Reeve' Harold Lobb is also seeking the wardenship. There was a large turnout at the Winter Carnival meeting last week to plan for this winter's version of the snow frolic. All of the service clubs and groups in Clinton and area as well as town officials were on hand to lay preliminary plans for the Car- nival, which is to be held this year from February 10 to 17. Chair- man is B,ill Crawford and Mrs. George Dilvok and Bill Riehl are Mr -chairmen. A few of the events include snowmobile races, "Ice Niks," broomball, a parade and two dances, 10 YEARS AGO November 30, 1967 In what promises to be a lively municipal election, Clinton will see two-way battles for the mayor's chair and reeveship, three candidates fighting to become deputy reeve and several newcomers scrambling for council seats. By contrast all public utilities commissioners and school trustees whose terms expire this year will be re-elected by ac- clamation. Those nominated and qualified were: mayor, Don Symons, George Wonch; reeve, Duff Thompson, James Armstrong; deputy reeve, John McFarlane, Gordon Lawson; council, (six to he elected) Cameron Proctor, Norman, Livermore, Wesley Holland, Frank Cook, Clarence Denomme, Harold Lobb, Ted McCullough. Doug Andrews, manager of the Centennial Arena, reports that midget and juvenile hockey teams from Detroit will visit Clinton to play local youngsters on Saturday, December 16. Announcement, Mr. Lorn Brown, president of Lorne Brown Motors Ltd. is pleased to an- nounce the purchase of his business by his son Mr, Stephen Brown. Mr, Lorne Brown will continue to be associated with the business as a salesman. John Bradley of RR 3 Goderich was one of four Ontario Junior Farmers to receive gold medal awards for judging skill at the recent Junior Farmers inter - county judging competitions held at the Royal Winter Fair. 25 YEARS AGO December 4, 1952 A grand total of 1,115 Clinton residents, the largest turnout at the polls in recent years (ap- proximately 64.4 percent of possible voters) cast their ballots on Monday last, with almost perfect weather conditions, The results'saw the voters choose William J. Miller mayor by a slim 25 vote majority; pick Melvin Crich Deputy Reeve by 146; and elect six councillors. The councillors elected were Morgan Agnew, Burton Stanley, George Knights, Dudley M. Pegg, Stewart Schc enhals and Caryle Draper in that order. Mrs. Clara Jackson, grand- daughter of William Rattenbury, founder of Clinton in 1885, died last week at her home on King Street, just 22 da s- before her 94th birthday. One of Clinton's oldest citizens Mrs. Jackson was well-known throughout the district. Her outstanding per- sonality and wonderful sense of humour made her well -liked by everyone. Mrs. Jackson enjoyed reading the newspapers and also read an average of two books a week. A welcome home party was held at the home of Mrs. Lucy Bezzo, Matilda Street on Sunday, November 30 for her son, Lance Corporal Fred Bezzo, Clan- deboye, recently in Germany with the 27th Brigade, Canadian Army Overseas. Six new members were initiated into the Kinsmen Club of Clinton at its regular bi-monthly meeting on Tuesday evening. The new members are Maitland Edgar, Burton Stanley, Thomas Steep, Wilfred Denomme, R.D. Fremlin and Donald Smith. A 35 -foot motor launch, "Albert S." owned by Fred Telford was in danger of sinking on Wednesday afternoon, December 3, when the thin coating of ice on the river cut holes on either side of the bow, letting in sufficient water to stop the engine. Mr. Telford ac- companied by Donnie McLeod had .been on his way to lift perch nets. With the assistance of Tom Castle, Walter Westlake and George Elliott, the Albert S. was beached, repaired and floated again. Fuller details will be reported next week. 50 YEARS AGO December 1, 1927 Reports are coming from some localities that unauthorized men are going about the country representing themselves to be officers of the law and collecting fines from farmers who have not compiled with the regulations regarding carrying of lights on vehicles. Few farmers probably will 'be fooled by such gentry, but should one of them happen along it would be well to report him to / the police. Those who do not comply with the laty may be dealt with and severely, but it will not be in a manner as casual as this. Hydro played, hide and seek with us all yesterday evening, going off just before six o'clock when suppers were nearly, but not quite hot. The power returned about half past again and for an hour or two kept coming and going at intervals, necessitating the having of some candles handy. But about nine, it went off flat and remained off until after ten. The trouble was caused at the Stratford station and near that point where a set of transformers went out of business for some reason. However, things seem all right this morning. Mr. James Walkinshaw passed another milestone yesterday. Mr. Walkinshaw is not as active as he used to be but he still enjoys a fair share of health and strength. Mr. Henry Plumsteel is another Clinton citizen who yesterday ' rounded out another year. Mr. Plumsteel comes down town nearly every fine day and is always most anxious to see the papers and see what is the latest world news. All kinds of raw furs are bringing high prices. That is if you sell them to H.A. Hovey, Clinton, Ontario. If you sell them elsewhere the prices may not be so "high. A word to the wise is sufficient. Awnings are coming off the screen dog -s and windows are being replat;ed by storm sash, in readiness for the coming winter, Smile The texan was unimpressed with the farmer's meagre 40 acres. "You know," drawled the Texan, "it takes me a whole day to drive across my spread in Texas." Really?" asked the farmer. "I used to have a car like that too." 7 News -Record readers are en- couraged to express their opinions In letters to the editor, however, such opinions do not necessarily represent the opinions of the News - Record. Pseudonyms may be used by letter writers, but no letter will be published unless It can be verified by phone. What you think I11111IIIl11111IIIIIIIIIIIIIIlI11111111111111111111III1111111IIIll1 Vabi Dear Editor: Re the movie "Oh God" reviewed in the November 17 issue of the News -Record. Not hawing seen the movie, I can only refer to tho'ad- vertisements which bill the film as a hilarious comedy. The, promoters give a quip about God and Moses as a sample of the humour used to make this film so popular. At first glance, this money- maker for the film industry does not appear to be in harmony with the Third Commandment, "You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain," Exodus 20:7. Sincerely Janet. Stryker, Clinton P.S..I enjoy ,reading our local newspaper each week. "Write on," Bill Dear Editor: What a relief to read Bill Smiley's column this week, regarding that hypocritical phrase, "Have a nice day." I have often thought of replying in exactly the same manner as Bill suggests, but have felt well maybe it's just me. Maybe I am too sen- sitive; maybe I'm the only person who cringes at the insincerity of those words and the speaker. ,- Thank goodness there are others who feel as I do, well one other at least, This summer I even saw those ridiculous words on tee- shirts, on "stick -ons" and even on campaign -type buttons. I Was taught in school not to use the word "nice." It doesn't mean a thing. Most people, let's face it, couldn't care less what kind of a day total strangers have, so why feign solicitousness? As Bill Smiley says, it's pretty obvious where it came from. It's all American "baloney" or as one might' say nowadays, it's all American B.S.! I do appreciate Mr. Smiley's sense of humour in general, He writes an ex- cellent and very readable column, in a totally natural style. Each week I turn to his, column first and his words invariably bring a smile to my face. He would be an interesting person to meet. Yours sincerely, Suzanne Stevens, Bayfield Prepared Dear Editor: Talking to persons who hunt, I often wonder if it is a #► hunting trip or a drinking trip they go on. Then I think of the high powered firearms they take with them. Mixing the hunting and drinking could prove to be someone's last hunting trip as they may find out what a bullet feels like searing through their body from some impaired hunter who thought he saw an animal. Another aspect that could prove dangerous to the amateur hunter is losing his bearings and finding himself lbst in the bush. You don't even have to be drinking to have this happen. Follow the ten com- mandments of bush survival and keep liquor out of the hunting part of the trip. (1) Tell' someone where you 'are going and' when you ex- pect to return. (2) Carry and know how to use a map and compass. (3) Carry emergency food, matches and a good knife. (4) Check your position frequently. (5) If lost, don't panic. (6) Stay put, prepare shelter and fire. •- (7) Prepare three signal fires in .a 60 foot triangle ready for lighting at the first sound of an aircraft. (8) Conserve your food supply and strength. (9) If you leave your shelter, blaze your trail. (10) If you are not lost but only delayed, notify the Ontario Provincial Police and your home. You can do your part to make hunting a good safe sport by using good sense and forethought. Don't let alcohol destroy your life or your family's on the trip up there, or on the way home. Remember YOU ARE NEEDED by those back home! Prov. Const. R.W. WIL$ON No. 3629, Community Services Officer.