Mail bag: 12/12/24

‘Just plain forgot’

Dear Editor:

RE: Town of Erin to reinstate previous shamrock logo, Dec. 5.

“We made a mistake in the process but … it was not a malicious mistake,” councillor John Brennan said at the meeting.

“It was not a mistake that was designed to avoid interacting with the public.”

If the mistake was not to avoid interacting with the public then it was they just plain forgot about the public. And that may be worse.

Larry Vettor,
Guelph

‘Grossly unfair’

Dear Editor:

I would like to thank our Wellington County politicians (he says sarcastically)!

I travel to a transfer station every Saturday. Earlier this year a notice went out saying yellow garbage bags were increasing in price as of July 1, 2024.

I, along with many others I’m sure, stocked up to save a few dollars. Now, starting Jan. 1, we will be charged $10 minimum each visit.

So now I have to pay again for bags I have already purchased! What’s next, charging for recycling and compost?

I am recently retired and find this grossly unfair!

Joe Dowe,
Glen Allan

‘Lack of diversity’

Dear Editor:

Last week, Wellington County council elected its new warden and committee chairs. This smooth transition of power reminds us how fortunate we are to live in a country where citizens can choose their representatives and leaders.

However, I must draw our community’s attention to a concerning outcome: every single leadership position was filled by men. 

In 2024, this unacceptable lack of diversity fails to represent the full spectrum of talent, perspective and experience in Wellington. When men exclusively support other men for leadership roles, we miss opportunities to bring new thinking and approaches to long-standing challenges.

The way things have always been done has not served us well. True representation requires diverse voices at decision-making tables like a council horseshoe. This isn’t just about gender, it’s about ensuring our council reflects the full energy, strength, compassion and needs of our community.

Looking for ways to change the status quo, I am excited to share that Municipal Campaign School will return in 2025, preparing candidates for the October 2026 election. Creating change requires action from all of us – not just women or underrepresented groups. Every resident has a role in shaping the future of our local government.

If you believe Wellington County deserves leadership that reflects its community, watch for campaign school details in 2025. The council we want starts with the candidates we support.

Curt Hammond,
Elora

‘Get with the program’

Dear Editor:

It is reassuring to see the solidarity among provinces and territories in the face of Donald Trump’s most recent attempt to create chaos and division among friends and allies

History teaches us that the West united against the rising Nazi fascism, and diverse areas of Canada became a force for democracy by supporting the war effort. Outside threat is impetus toward teamwork. The insiders who were organized Nazi sympathizers planning England’s defeat and replacement by the Third Reich were put down. Democracy prevailed after allies came together.

In 2016, using skilled diplomacy and communication with friendly American interests, the Liberal government team successfully formulated the largest fair trade agreement in the world, the USMCA. It was  designed to last until 2034. Trump signed.

Trudeau and the Liberal party managed Trump’s agenda in 2018 and, using that experience, will stand in good stead to protect  our national  interests now. The landscape has changed, however, and new resources and policy will be needed, but the goal is the same: preservation of our sovereignty and economic security.

As our entire country works to protect our national interest, I would expect that Poilievre and his partisans might desist with the divisive caterwauling and insults and, as the rest of the country is doing, get with the program!

Arlene Callaghan,
Fergus

‘Insulting’

Dear Editor:

RE: Women of Afghanistan, Nov. 28.

In reference to Janet Calderwood’s letter, I sympathise with her opinions, but find her thoughts and solutions quite disturbing.

Her outpouring seems to end by targeting Afghanistan, suggesting we should interfere with their regime and culture to liberate their women. I do believe we already tried to do the “right thing” in Afghanistan and are still picking up the pieces in regards to our veterans and other involved personnel.

It is quite insulting to suggest that nobody tried to do anything and are unaware of the present situation and hardships within that regime.

I am sure there are lots of women in Canada that she could help without trying to start yet another conflict in places that we don’t belong and already paid a heavy price and continue to do so. 

Malcolm McCulloch,
Fergus    

‘Power and pensions’

Dear Editor:

 I enjoy reading your newspaper each week especially the letters to the editor.

I recently went back through the last couple of months of letters (online letters archives) and there appears to be a theme regarding Ford, Trump and Trudeau (Kool Aid, satire, prevail, etc.).

Trudeau is easy to understand. His record. Trump because of his mouth and some actions. Ford definitely some questionable (criminal?) decisions. 

But who could possibly top McGuinty or Wynne? Nobody. Oh, I forgot, Trudeau. Mike Harris is still occasionally making the news.

Some people are so far left (woke?) they are lucky to be driving on the “right” side of the road.

Check Ontario politics between 1942 and 1985.

Unfortunately, red, blue, orange or green, none appear to have our interests at the forefront. They care more about power and pensions. 

Don Ferrier,
Belwood

‘Preventable’

Dear Editor:

This year, as we mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), it’s a grim reminder that the harm caused extends far beyond the immediate victim, affecting families, neighbourhoods and entire communities. 

The statistics are alarming. On average, every six days in Canada, a woman is killed by her intimate partner. For Indigenous women, the risks are even higher, as they face violence at more than twice the rate of non-Indigenous women. These numbers aren’t just statistics – they represent real lives lost and futures stolen. 

The 16 Days of Activism is a global campaign that calls on individuals and organizations to take a stand against GBV. At the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW), we’ve embraced this call to action, using these 16 days as an opportunity to amplify our advocacy and shine a light on the systemic changes needed to end GBV. We’ve fought for stronger laws, better resources for survivors and increased funding for shelters and community programs. These systemic changes are essential, but they are not enough on their own.

Real change starts with each of us. It means challenging our own assumptions, questioning the culture which allows violence to persist and engaging in difficult conversations. Education is a critical piece for this change to happen. When people learn about gender inequality, healthy relationships, and the ways systemic barriers perpetuate violence – whether in schools, workplaces or informal settings – they are empowered to act. This isn’t about assigning blame; it’s about equipping people to be part of the solution.

No single organization, group or individual can tackle GBV alone. It takes all of us. It takes neighbors who speak out against harassment. It takes workplaces committed to equity and fairness. It takes leaders who listen to survivors and craft policies that reflect their realities. And it takes communities standing together to say, “this is unacceptable and must stop now”.

Silence and inaction allow GBV to persist and worsen. Pretending it doesn’t affect us only deepens the crisis. But when we come together – through vigils, advocacy, conversations and education – we create the momentum needed to bring about real, lasting change.

The 16 Days of Activism reminds us that ending GBV is not just about protecting women and girls. It’s about building a society where everyone, regardless of gender, can live free from fear. It’s about valuing each other’s humanity.

So, what can you do? Start where you are. Listen to survivors. Support local organizations. Speak up. And remember, even small actions matter.

Gender-based violence is not inevitable; it’s preventable. It’s a challenge we can overcome, but it truly will take all of us. 

Debra Thompson (chair)
and Jo Ann Hayter (president),
CFUW Guelph

‘Amazing, beautiful’

Dear Editor:

I would like to extend a big thank you to whoever does the Wellington Advertiser drop-off each week!

Last Friday I found the paper safely wrapped and waiting after two stormy days.

What a spectacular front page photo of the six-horse hitch of Dominion Farms in the Erin Santa Claus Parade. 

Wow ! Amazing and beautiful. 

Liz Hughes,
Puslinch 

‘Wonderful event’

Dear Editor:

The Optimist Club of Puslinch would like to thank all the sponsors, volunteers and community members who came together to make this year’s Puslinch Santa Clause Parade a huge success!  

This year’s parade was made up of 30 festive floats plus many clowns, some friendly reindeer, a bear, a horse, Madeline, many cadets and three bands. The chilly weather didn’t stop hundreds of children from lining the highway to enjoy the spectacle.

After the parade, everyone gathered in the Optimist Recreation Centre to warm up with hot chocolate and hot dogs.  Excited children took photos with Santa and mailed their Christmas letters off to the North Pole.

With the help of the Heritage Lakes Community, an unprecedented 1,393 pounds of food was collected and, thanks to our very generous corporate sponsors, $1,000 in gift cards will be donated to the Children’s Wish Foundation.  

This event is a community favourite and is only possible with the generous support of our local businesses, organizations and community members.

Please thank them and support them when you can. They include: Dr. Abraham Aho Veterinary, Benson Tire, Blue Triton Brands, Brennen’s Tire Service Inc., Bryan’s Auction Services, Capital Paving, Carl Bousefield and family, Charlie and Hetty Kuiken, Farley Manufacturing Inc., Fred Prior, Great Wall Restaurant, Michael’s Mobile Truck and Trailer Repair, Robert Hammond, Victoria Park East and Valley Golf Clubs, Vinnie’s Mr. Fixit, Wall Custance Funeral Home Ltd., Aberfoyle Power Sports, County of wellington Roads Dept., DLP Heavy Haul Inc., Dar Max Inc., Henry Deter, Ken Tosh, Ontario Heritage Steam Museum, OPP, Shar-a-Tree Christmas Trees, Township of Puslinch and the Puslinch Fire Department. 

Congratulations to June Williams, the 2024 Parade Committee and the Optimist Club of Puslinch on another wonderful event. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Catherine Featherston,
Pulsinch

Parade was ‘a blast’

Dear Editor:

Last week, on the first Saturday in December, the Optimist,  Kinsmen and Lions clubs of Fergus hosted the annual Fergus Santa Claus Parade. It was a blast.

A special shout-out to A.O. Smith, who generously donated their employee parking lot for the parade vehicles to assemble. You are the greatest! A special thank you to Cora from Elliot Bus Lines, who drove the “warming and registration” bus. Always on time …thanks.

We had possibly a record number of floats entered. Everyone was in the Christmas spirit and, despite the cold and wind, spent a great amount of time decorating their floats. We had local businesses, church groups, Fergus Army Cadets, youth groups, youth sports groups, dance troops, Diamonds’ in the Rough, last out, an Equine presentation with beautiful horses (and their bathroom mop up squad).

As parade marshal my job is to line them up and send them on their way in an order that best represents the parade (not sending out groups in batches, but spacing them out).  Each year it is difficult, and I personally apologize if I left you to a later time to go, but all in all, the participants were wonderful and understanding.

The Grand 101 led, after the police, Legion colour party, Fergus Pipe Band, Fergus Army Cadets and CWFD – they have great rides. The CW Food Bank followed – and at this time of year, the need is greatest (due to the economy, the number of clients has more than tripled).

Fergus is a very caring and sharing community, and we hope the new residents will embrace this spirit of caring and be part of it. Santa followed the Fergus Brass Band, and was a hit, as he stopped to embrace all the young people as he made his way to his sleigh.

At this time of year, it is time to remember that Jesus is the reason for this season. The spirit of giving and getting together with family follows. 

So to everyone out there, a very Merry Christmas, a happy holiday, or however you celebrate this season of hope, love, and happiness.

Be well and we will see you all next year.

JB Martin, parade marshall,
Fergus Santa Claus Parade

‘Magical’ parade

Dear Editor:

I am one of the organizers of the Elora Santa Claus Parade. 

This year, like in the past, it was magical, with all the lights and music. This year we had a great number of compliments on how organized we are and how smoothly the parade runs. 

I believe it is called controlled chaos. It is due to the fact there are a great many members of the community who assist the Elora Lions to make it a successful parade. Also, the community of caring companies and organizations who take the time an effort to put forth some truly impressive floats. 

I thank all who joined the parade, who assisted and more importantly came out to watch.

Josef Van den Borre,
Elora Lion