Editorials - Nov. 29, 2024

In sleepy southwestern Ontario, it’s easy to think that we’re immune to or spared from the violence and threats we so associate with our neighbours to the south or even some of our country’s bigger cities. And yet, last week in North Huron, we were reminded that this is not the case.

 

An incident at the North Huron municipal office in Wingham caused employees to fear for their safety and call for police intervention, which resulted in the arrest of a 41-year-old North Huron man. Canada often can count itself safe from horrific acts of indiscriminate acts of public violence, but this was a reminder of the threat that will always exist. 

 

The councillors, municipal staff members and residents in the office to pay their taxes or purchase a marriage certificate are our neighbours and friends. In an era of politically-charged anger and division, even at the local level, it can be easy to forget that - especially as some bad actors with internet access stoke fires and encourage this kind of behaviour.  

 

Last week’s incident was, luckily, uneventful, brief and unexciting. We can consider ourselves lucky for that, but it was a stark reminder that the potential for violence and chaos is ever-present. – SL

In the 2019 and 2021 federal elections, Justin Trudeau went to great lengths to convince Ontarians that he was not Doug Ford as a political strategy; Doug Ford is awful, he’d infer, and so too will the federal Conservatives be, so why not elect me instead? In fact, many suggested at the time that the 2021 snap election was called by Trudeau to capitalize on Ford’s lack of popularity and bungling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, most can empathize with those who find politics exhausting; those who don’t bother to vote; those who think the only difference between the thieves in suits on offer is their tie colour. 

 

Swinging in on the most recent chandelier is Trudeau with his “tax break” over the next few months. The two-month GST/HST break on a handful of essentials has been roundly criticized, even by those who stand to benefit from it, with many wondering what tangible impact it will have, with others seeing it as a clear election ploy; bribery by a different name, just with our own money. Sound familiar?

 

If it doesn’t right now, maybe it will when you get your $200 cheque from Ontario’s Premier early next year. Just a little something to get you over the hump, friends. Don’t forget about it come election time.

 

With most people seeing this ploy to curry favour for what it is, one has to wonder what it will actually accomplish. Opinions of Trudeau won’t improve, seemingly, and income that could have been used on something meaningful will be left on the table. Don’t allow your vote to be bought. Support politicians who spend to improve your situation and community, not as a means by which to buy four more years. – SL 

As the holiday season arrives, school Christmas concerts remind us that greatness, in any field, starts with the basics. How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice… and perhaps a stellar video audition. Recently, the students of Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute’s (GVCI) choir proved that this well-worn adage holds true, earning a place on one of the world’s most prestigious stages under the direction of Grammy-winning composer Eric Whitacre. For the second time, the GCVI choir graced the iconic Carnegie Hall stage, this time performing in An Eric Whitacre Holiday: Gift of the Magi. The opportunity came after months of preparation, a successful video audition and 10 hours of intensive rehearsals with Whitacre himself.

 

But their journey wasn’t limited to one genre. Adding to their whirlwind season, the choir also joined forces with American indie rock band Modest Mouse in Toronto just weeks before their Carnegie Hall show. Performing “Wooden Soldiers”, the students moved lead singer Isaac Brock to tears during rehearsal. Seeing high school students navigate between classical choral pieces and iconic rock collaborations with such grace and professionalism is as inspiring as it is impressive.

 

What makes the GCVI choir’s story so compelling is how relatable it is. Its success reminds us that the creativity and commitment found in their school hallways are no different from those in our own community. Artistic talent, whether nurtured in a bustling Manhattan venue or a local gym, comes from hard work, encouragement and a love of the craft.

 

This offers a powerful example of where dedication and support can lead. Perhaps one day, some of our students will be standing on bigtime stages, sharing their voices with the world. For now, families can take pride in the music created in local schools and other community spaces, and celebrate the teachers and mentors who help them along the way.

 

So to all our local performers: keep practising. Whether your stage is a school auditorium or Carnegie Hall, the magic begins with the effort you put in. And who knows? Your next step could be a collaboration with a legendary band or a debut on one of the world’s most lauded stages. The possibilities are endless when passion and perseverance meet. – SBS