Woodstock Ingersoll Echo
A sit down with Woodstock’s mayor – Part 1
It is a decades-old tradition for politicians to sit down with journalists for year-end fireside chats to talk about the year that was and the year that is to be. While there isn’t a fireplace in Woodstock Mayor Jerry Acchione’s office at city hall on Dundas Street, he was gracious enough to spend some time with the Echo recently.
Much of the conversation centred around homelessness and the issues of mental health and drug addiction which all go hand-in-hand and continues to be the single most talked about file in the city. The Woodstock Hospital recently made an application with the provincial government to bring a Homeless and Addiction Recovery Treatment Hub (HART) to the city. Woodstock was not named in the first round of announcements but Acchione is confident the second round will provide good news.
“The application process has gone well. No questions were asked by the government that I am aware of so that is always a great indicator. The Woodstock Hospital has been fantastic in going ahead and making sure the process has been seamless.”
The annual Rural Ontario Municipal Association (ROMA) is being held in Toronto from Jan. 19 to Jan. 21 where Acchione and other elected officials will be meeting with Associate Minister of Health and Addictions Michael Tibollo for an update on the application.
“It would be a great thing for the city. It’s that transition piece we do not have. The closest one is in London are there are only seven beds and we never get access out of Oxford County. Having something here to help our own residents will be fantastic.”
NEW YEAR’S MAGIC
Gathered around the table for a game of Magic
and Scott
Town of Ingersoll to launch Downtown Enhancement Plan
The Town of Ingersoll has launched a Downtown Enhancement Plan to “strengthen the future of the downtown core.”
A news release explained the ambitious plan is designed to transform downtown Ingersoll into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically resilient district.
“With a focus on fostering sustainable growth, attracting new businesses, and creating a dynamic environment for both residents and visitors, the Downtown Enhancement Plan will serve as a strategic blueprint for the future of the town's core.”
The Downtown Enhancement Plan, set to be completed by April 2025, will include a comprehensive community engagement process. This will ensure that Ingersoll residents have a voice in shaping the future of their town. This input will help guide the development of a plan that aligns with the community's wants and needs.
The town has selected Urban Insights, in partnership with Durrell Communications, as the lead consultants in the plan’s development.
“We recognize the immense potential of downtown Ingersoll and are excited to collaborate with our community on a plan that will strengthen our historic core while addressing the needs of today's and tomorrow’s residents and businesses.
The Gathering
Sarah Hughes, Jacob Bula, Collin Hughes, Blake Weigler Dumas
(RON YUZARK PHOTO)
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Town looking to grow business and residential properties
This is an exciting opportunity to enhance our downtown as a place that reflects both its rich history and its dynamic future,” said Director of Economic Development and Tourism, Curtis Tighe.
The move was identified in the town’s strategic plan in 2022, more specifically, the goal to increase commercial activity. Tighe said many news businesses have opened in the core recently but retailers are facing new challenges.
“There are some opportunities to improve our downtown. A lot of towns would call this a revitalization plan but we have a strong core with a good traditional look. We thought we should refer to it more as an enhancement plan to make it ever stronger.”
He added there may be an opportunity in the future for new development along with improvements to what’s already downtown. Tighe explained the plan will guide the town and council through both and said hearing from as many people as possible is also key.
“We are going to be seeking input from council, staff members, the general public, business owners, building owners and stakeholders such as the BIA, Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Centre and Community Futures Oxford.”
The town will post online surveys and hold several public open houses and members of council will likely be updated a few times at regular meetings.
“We will seek council’s blessing but they will have an opportunity to provide input as each of them will be consulted. This is going to be a plan built by the community
for the heart of our town. We are looking forward to seeing what comes out of it,” he added.
He added one of the town’s biggest strengths is the number of partners willing to step up and get involved with projects like the Downtown Enhancement Plan. While there is nothing in the works in terms of capital improvements to the downtown for the next 10 years, any input on beautification is welcome.
“We recently paved the downtown so we won’t have to tear the street up for quite some time. But what can we do? Plant some trees or add more flowers. How can we incorporate interim solutions and then have a vision going forward so we aren’t spending money now on something we are going to tear up later.”
Tighe explained the town is hoping the consultants will be able to provide clear recommendations, including costing, so a strategy can be implemented to complement Ingersoll’s asset management plan.
“It will allow us to save now and spend later and use our dollars as effectively as we possibly can.”
The consultants come with a price tag of $50,000
Mayor Brian Petrie is hoping the plan will make the downtown stronger as time passes.
“Ingersoll is deep-rooted in heritage and tradition. As we look to the future, we are committed to giving everyone an opportunity to contribute to our next chapter and working with a diverse range of stakeholders, community members, and local leaders to craft a thoughtful and actionable
framework that will guide the future of Ingersoll’s downtown.”
Tighe also explained the town is looking at a review of its Community Improvement Plan.
“We have seen some success with that as there have been some façade improvements. We are incentivizing some additional housing in the downtown core so we
are hoping to see future recommendations on both of those.”
He added the goal is to make sure the plan is meeting the needs of business owners. Public engagement will kick off at an information meeting later this month. More information will be available at www. ingersoll.ca/do-business/downtown-enhancement-plan/.
Area fire departments receiving provincial cancer prevention funding
recipient of the funds to be able to put towards equipment that will be effective for our firefighters.”
to be put back into service. The department has added 11 new firefighters in the last two years.
members of his team attend a fire scene but improved training materials ensure the practice is safe.
The Ontario government has invested $30 million over three years to provide 374 municipal fire departments with funding to support cancer prevention initiatives. Locally, Woodstock is getting just under $16,500 and Ingersoll will receive a little over $8,000.
The funding through the Fire Protection Grant will be used to purchase equipment and make infrastructure upgrades to help reduce the long-term effects of exposure to fire-related contaminants and chemicals.
Woodstock Fire Chief Jeff Slager explained it is an exciting time in the fire service and emergency management sectors.
“We are seeing an unprecedented number of grant application opportunities which is great and this is an excellent one from the province of Ontario. We are very grateful to be a
Slager said this particular grant proposal asked for a wish list of items that could be used to boost cancer prevention, something he has been advocating for a long time.
“We have had growth in our department over the last few years as far as staffing goes, and every firefighter has two sets of bunker gear. If a set becomes contaminated at a fire or any type of scene where a carcinogen can get on the bunker gear, our firefighters can remove it.”
The department uses what are called extractors or washing machines, and dryers so firefighters are able to have a quick turnaround.
“Then they have a clean set of gear that allows them to remain in service,” added Slager.
One set of bunker gear costs between $3500 and $4000 and it takes 24 to 48 hours for a contaminated set
“That increases costs so we rented bunker gear to try and reduce the immediate cost. Everybody had at least one set we owned but renting the additional gear allowed us to meet that need for two sets each. The funding will finally allow us to close that loop.”
Approval for the grant was on the agenda at this week’s Woodstock City Council meeting and is expected to be rubber-stamped by councillors.
“It’s expensive stuff. It’s not one of those things where you can go to a workwear store and purchase off the rack. Each set lasts 10 years and is sized to each firefighter so it fits properly. When they are wearing their additional 80 pounds of equipment, they don’t want the gear to be too bulky and not work with them,” explained Slager.
He added there is a risk anytime
“We try to minimize the products we use to burn. It’s a product that has very few carcinogens in it. We don’t use plywood, we don’t use hardwoods and products with glues in them. It’s a clay-pressed board that when burnt achieves the heat we need to complete the training.”
Ingersoll Fire Chief John Holmes explained his department will be using its funding to purchase a gear dryer.
“This is a piece of equipment that goes with the extractor and was purchased a number of years ago. It will assist in the turnaround time when cleaning our turnout gear. Currently it takes about 10 hours to completely dry a set and with the addition of the dryer it should cut that time in half or less. It will get our firefighters back in service more quickly and efficiently.”
He added Ingersoll applies for any
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Ingersoll has launched a plan to enhance its downtown core.
Funding used to purchase new bunker gear
available grant and they have been successful in recent years.
“There is a round of provincial grant funding that will be available for the next two years and we will apply for that when the time comes. We are always striving to make our industry as safe as possible for our Firefighters. Cancer prevention is always top of mind and most things we purchase incorporate some type of safety measure.”
Holmes said the department has already started to make the switch in its vehicles to keep its self-contained breathing apparatuses and dirty turnout gear out of the cab and the addition of a gear dryer lends itself very well to that
safety theme.
“Firefighters put service over self each and every day, facing dangerous situations to protect their communities,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Our government has been a leader in protecting them, while they’re protecting us. Today’s announcement is another concrete step to make sure these heroes get the care, resources and support they deserve.”
Firefighters are more likely to experience health problems because of exposure to hazardous chemicals. In Canada, 50 to 60 firefighters die of cancer every year and half of those are from Ontario.
Woodstock firefighter Brandon Empey, who joined the force in 2023, wears a set of his bunker gear as he inspects a truck.
(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
Homelessness continues to plague the city
Homeless encampments in Woodstock continue to be an issue for some residents. The Echo has received reports of one person living on city property using a generator 24 hours a day. The growing structure is just behind one city woman’s backyard and has been there for close to two years. Another encampment recently saw power tools being used to erect a permanent structure. Acchione said complaints from city residents haven’t increased, but they are consistent.
“I assure you, nobody drives around the city more than me and I have been in every single encampment and talked to the people living in them multiple times. It’s not illegal to be homeless. In terms of structures, just because it’s not the way you and I would live doesn’t mean somebody doesn’t want a roof over their head.”
He added the push for more funding and resources from the provincial and federal governments needs to continue to get people off the streets.
“We are not structured as a municipality to help the homeless in the way they need help, plain and simple. That was the biggest reason I pushed so hard to have our nearly $2 million from the Building Faster Fund towards a homeless shelter. We need to get rid of the barriers so more people are willing to go into the shelter system.”
A plan for what that shelter will look like will be coming to Oxford County Council in the near future. Acchione explained once a homeless person enters the transitional system, the likelihood of them getting out of their situation is significantly greater than living in the bush.
“What I don’t want to happen is them being pushed so far into a forest that we can’t ensure their health and safety and get the basics they need because they are ostracized from the general public.”
One concern among many city residents is alleged theft by the homeless. Woodstock Police tell the Echo they are closely monitoring reports linked to homeless people as part of ongoing
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community safety efforts and efforts to look at the root cause.
Registered homeless people receive a monthly street allowance, something Acchione said is often pooled together to purchase bigger ticket items.
“Many of them do save together. I hate to assume it may be a stolen generator. If it is, when the police unfortunately get called to these sites, they are going to look at things, take photos and compare with notes of what’s been stolen in the area. Have they found stolen items, yes, they have.”
Acchione said it’s wrong to assume items like a generator were not storebought.
“If there were easy answers it would have been fixed a long time ago. With the cost of living today, we are all feeling it. We all pay a few hundred dollars more at the grocery store and when someone is even part of the working poor, a couple hundred bucks is the difference between having a home, or not.”
He added the stories of many of Woodstock’s homeless are quite sad.
“Hearing where they come from, what they have had to go through. They are choosing to live outside when it’s minus-20. If that doesn’t give someone a reason to pause and think that this is the best for them, they feel, then ask why.”
The mayor said he has had many families in his office to talk about their family members living in the streets.
Part two of our interview with the mayor will be in the Jan. 31 version of the Echo. Issues such as development and the 2025 budget will be included.
(CITY OF WOODSTOCK PHOTO)
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
Jerry Acchione, Mayor of Woodstock.
January is Crime Stoppers Awareness month
JEFF HELSDON Echo Contributor
The more eyes the better could be seen as an underlying philosophy of the Crime Stoppers program.
This international program started in 1976 in Albuquerque, New Mexico when police were unable to find any tips about a murder. The idea of reenacting the crime on local television, allowing anonymous tips, and paying for tips that led to an arrest was born. The program spread and allows anonymous tips from the public about crimes and criminal activity.
In Tillsonburg, Crime Stoppers was a part of Haldimand-Norfolk Crime Stoppers until about a decade ago when Tillsonburg was grouped with Oxford Crime Stoppers.
Now, during Crime Stoppers Awareness Month, the local connections to the program are working to raise awareness of the valuable program.
“It’s a public, media and policing partnership,” said Jan Hauck, a South-West Oxford resident and a member of Oxford Crime Stoppers board of directors since 1998.
Laura Curtis, who lives in Tillsonburg, has been a board member since 2021.
The board is charged with raising funds for tips and deciding on how much rewards should be.
Potential tipsters should know the entire system is anonymous, rather the tip is left through the 1-800-222-TIPS line or on the web at oxfordcrimestoppers.com.
Tips are passed on to police and if the tips results in an arrest or charges laid, a reward of up to $2,000 can be paid. The amount of suggested tips is generated by a computer program, but the board can pay that amount, increase or decrease it.
“In my experience, we increase it because we want to keep those tips coming,” Hauck said.
In Oxford 85 to 90 per cent of the rewards are not claimed, which she said means the community is reporting crime for the right reason.
As of the end of November, Oxford Crime Stoppers received 329 tips. Those tips led to 15 arrests, 66 charges laid, $135,540 in narcotics seized and 45 cases cleared.
Board members also work to increase awareness about the program. Curtis said in Tillsonburg one sign had to come down and they are working to have replacements put up and finding other ways of raising awareness.
One of the big annual fundraisers is the golf tournament at Ingersoll Golf and Country Club. The group is looking for another fundraiser.
“We can’t just sit back,” Hauck said. “If tips come in, we need to pay those rewards.” Crime Stoppers is about more than assisting in major crimes.
The program also aids in solving fish and wildlife infractions such as poaching, breaking environmental regulations and people driving with a suspended license. Oxford Crime Stoppers is seeking new board members. The group meets monthly. Anyone interested can contact Curtis at 519-983-9300 or laura.curtis@ century21.ca
RETIREE’S BREAKFAST
UNIFOR LOCAL 636 IS HOSTING BREAKFASTS FOR RETIRED WORKERS AND/OR THEIR PARTNER
JANUARY 23, 2025
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
$5.00 Per Person
Retiree’s meeting to follow AGENDA
ROUTINE BUSINESS
Taking the Crime Stoppers vehicle in local parades is one way of raising awareness about the organization. Laura Curtis, left, and some of her helpers were ready for a Santa Claus parade.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Beachville Royal Canadian Legion Branch 495 Hosts Successful New Year’s Day Levee
Our team understands how difficult funeral expenses may be on families financially. We offer funeral services that are affordable enough to meet the needs of every family while also taking into account their particular financial circumstances. Consultations are available at no cost.
The Beachville Royal Canadian Legion Branch 495 welcomed the community to ring in the New Year at its annual New Year’s Day Levee on January 1st. The event brought together residents of all ages for a day filled with camaraderie, fun and tradition. Held at the branch headquarters, the levee featured an exciting lineup of activities, including cornhole tournaments, card games, pool matches and darts competitions. Attendees enjoyed the warm, welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the Legion’s events. “We’re thrilled to see so many familiar and new faces this year,” said a spokesperson for Branch 495. “The levee is a longstanding tradition that gives us a chance to connect
with our community and celebrate the start of a new year together.” In addition to the games, guests were treated to light refreshments and the opportunity to share stories and laughter with friends and neighbors. The event highlighted the Legion’s ongoing commitment to fostering community spirit while supporting veterans and their families. Branch 495 expressed gratitude to the volunteers and members who worked tirelessly to ensure the levee’s success. Plans are already underway for more engaging events throughout the year. For more information about upcoming activities at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 495, visit their website or follow them on social media.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Playing Pool were Kim Osmond, Lucy Murray and Michelle Wood.
UTRCA announces Thames River Phosphorus Reduction program
NANCY ABRA Echo Contributor
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) recently announced the Thames River Phosphorus Reduction program.
This is a new, four-year program that offers incentives for cover crops, reducing tillage, 4R practices, manure management, as well as cost-share rates for a variety of practices. In their promotion of this program, UTRCA said there are several practices that can reduce losses of phosphorus such as using cover crops, reducing tillage to prevent soil erosion and the loss of soil bound phosphorus.
They also said applying 4R practices – right source at the right rate, right time and right place – limits excess phosphorus in the soil and confines the risk of losses. Shifting manure applications to and on the fields will also lower soil phosphorus levels. Windbreaks, riparian buffers or vegetated land area and wetlands also help to hold water on the landscape and filter nutrient runoff.
This phosphorus-reduction program encompasses the Upper Thames River watershed, an area of 3,421 square kilometres, mainly rural except for the larger urban centres of London, Stratford and Woodstock. Agriculture is the main component of this area with approximately 3,600 farms, including over 2,000 livestock operations.
The Thames River Phosphorus Reduction program supports farmers and landowners in implementing agricultural best-management practices
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
The Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) recently announced a new four-year program aimed at reducing phosphorous levels in local waterways by offering incentives to area farmers for employing best-management practices to reduce runoff from their fields and farm operations.
that reduce phosphorus runoff, enhancing water quality in the Thames River and Lake Erie while improving soil health and farm productivity.
The UTRCA is now accepting applications for projects completed in 2024 or planned for 2025 that incorporates and is included in the program guidelines. The UTRCA is especially interested in hearing from land -
owners and farmers in the areas with high phosphorus runoff including in the Gregory Creek area in north Thames Centre, the Reynolds Creek area near Putnam and in North Mitchell.
For more information on the Thames River Phosphorus Reduction program, visit thamesriver.on.ca/landowner-grants-stewardship/phosphorus-reduction-program/.
Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?
Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?
Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?
Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter?
Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter?
Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter?
Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?
Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?
Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?
Oxford OPP briefs
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A collision the 401 in Oxford County sent three people to hospital with minor injuries
On Wednesday, Jan. 15 at about 7:30 a.m., members of the Oxford detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police along with Oxford County Fire Services and Oxford County Paramedic Services were called to the eastbound lanes of the 401 in South-West Oxford Township, for the report of a collision.
Four passenger vehicles and a transport truck were involved in the collision. Three occupants from three of the passenger vehicles were taken to hospital while several other occupants were uninjured.
Two of the eastbound Highway 401 lanes were closed between Ingersoll and Woodstock for several hours. The collisions occurred near the Sweaburg Road exit.
Suspicious fire in Ingersoll OPP are investigating a shopping cart that caught fire in the town.
Police were notified by Ingersoll Fire Services on Monday just after 7 a.m. that a cart was on fire on Cherry Street.
Police attended the scene and are investigating the fire as being suspicious. No injuries were reported.
The investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information including security footage are asked to contact the Oxford OPP.
Vehicle stolen from Oxford residence
Police are investigating the theft of a vehicle from a residence home in East Zorra-Tavistock.
Police were called to a home on the 15th Line on Jan 9 at approximately 8 a.m. and were told a black Cadillac Escalade was stolen sometime between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m.
Jewelry taken from Zorra Township home
Police are investigating a break-and-enter at a residence in Oxford County.
Sometime between 8:20 p.m. and 10:15 p.m. on Dec. 19, unknown individuals broke into a residence on the 19th Line. Thousands of dollars worth of jewelry was taken.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Oxford OPP.
Collison sends one person to hospital
A collision on the 401 on Jan. 10 sent one individual to hospital with serious injuries.
Members of the Oxford OPP along with Oxford County Fire Services and Oxford County Paramedic Services were called to the westbound lanes of Highway 401 in South-West Oxford Township for the report of a collision just before 3 a.m.
Police say a passenger vehicle and a transport truck collided. The lone occupant of the vehicle was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the transport truck was not injured.
Automotive wares on full display in the Friendly City
The Woodstock Automotive Flea Market transformed the Woodstock Fairgrounds into a hub of excitement for automotive enthusiasts on Jan. 12. Held indoors in the Mutual/Market Buildings and the Oxford Auditorium, the event drew crowds eager to explore its extensive collection of automotive treasures. The flea market featured close to 200 vendor tables offering everything from automotive parts and accessories to gas station memorabilia, die-cast cars, brochures, books, and vintage advertising signs. With such a wide variety of items on display, attendees were sure to find something to satisfy their passion
for all things automotive.
Convenience was key, with free parking available and an ATM on-site to ensure attendees could make their purchases. Visitors also enjoyed a lunch counter in the Oxford Auditorium, offering refreshments to fuel their shopping experience. The Woodstock Automotive Flea Market’s success reaffirmed its reputation as a must-attend event for anyone passionate about automotive culture. Vendors and attendees alike left satisfied, already looking forward to next year’s market and another opportunity to connect over their shared love of cars and collectibles.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Two Oxford residents bilked out of nearly $250,000
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
said people need to think these situations through before sending payment.
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Police are investigating two more frauds in the county, much to the chagrin of at least one member of the Oxford OPP.
On Jan. 13, police were notified of a fraud involving Bitcoin that resulted in the loss of over $200,000 for a resident of Zorra Township. The same day police were told about another fraud involving Apple Pay cards that resulted in the loss of approximately $40,000 for a resident of Tillsonburg.
The two frauds are not connected but they both involve fraudsters asking for payment through abnormal means, such as Bitcoin and gift cards, and communicating over the phone or through social media platforms.
Community Safety and Media Relations Constable Randi Crawford
“Regardless of what people are calling you for, if someone is asking you for an abnormal form of payment, it is likely a scam. You need to take some time and explore it more.”
It is rare for someone to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars but it doesn’t make Crawford feel any better about the crimes.
“My heart absolutely breaks for any victim and in this particular situation I don’t know all the details but it is likely that person’s life savings or at least a large part of it.”
She added scammers come up with believable excuses about why a payment didn’t go through or they have what appears to be a legitimate story about an investment.
“They are preying on vulnerable people who like to do the right thing.
They like to pay their bills on time to make sure they are doing everything they can to make their accounts right. These fraudsters often build such a close relationship over time, a victim believes they are doing good and it’s not until well into the scam they say wait a second, something isn’t right here.”
While she didn’t have statistics Crawford did admit the times people are reimbursed for the money they were bilked out of were few and far between. She also encouraged people to become educated through a very informative website.
“The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre has up-to-date statistics on how many dollars have been lost. There is a lot of great information there and I want people to see what current scams are circulating and find out what they need to be looking for.”
Many treasures for attendees to choose from.
Darcy Ralf Kyrsten and Chandelle Freeman of Dar's Casting were a family affair vendors.
Hot Wheels collectibles on offer from Carter and Daniel.
Woodstock Police Service briefs
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Two Females use phony money at local stores
Police say two women allegedly used counterfeit $20 and $50 on Jan. 9 at retail stores in Woodstock.
To help raise public awareness, we have attached photos of the counterfeit bills. A key thing to look out for is that the hologram on the bills shows “100,” which indicates that the bills are not legitimate.
As the investigation continues, the Woodstock Police Service reminds everyone to carefully check any cash they receive to help prevent counterfeit currency from circulating.
Four arrested as the result of impaired driving and drug seizure Police responded to a single vehicle crash just after midnight on Dec. 30 after a car lost control and ended up in a ditch.
Four people were found near the scene of the accident and the vehicle was towed to a secure location for a closer look.
While officers were investigating the collision scene, they observed a second vehicle speeding in the area. A traffic stop was initiated, and it was determined the same four people were in the new ve -
Anyone who thinks they have received counterfeit bills is encouraged to contact police immediately.
hicle. When speaking with the driver, officers detected a strong odor of alcohol and as a result, a 32-yearold man from Woodstock was arrested and transported to the police station where he provided breath samples. Police say he had twice the legal limit of alcohol in his system.
A further search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of a quantity of cocaine and all four occupants were charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Police add the investigation is ongoing and more charges could be laid.
Former chief passes away
Retired Chief of Police
Joseph Opthof began his career in 1967 and worked his way up through the ranks, serving the community for almost 33 years. From 1997 to 1999, he was the Chief of Police, leading both the Oxford Community Police and Woodstock Police with dedication and respect.
Chief Opthof will always be remembered for his leadership and the positive impact he had on the community.
“He was not just a Chief, but a mentor and a role model to many, especially the officers who worked alongside him. His legacy of service, integrity, and care will never be forgotten,” said a statement from police.
SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL
Former Woodstock Police Chief recently passed away. He spent close to 33 years as a member of the force.
(WOODSTOCK POLICE PHOTO)
Gaming in the New Year
The first Annual New Year’s Gaming Party at Arkain Gaming and Hobbies in Ingersoll was an unforgettable evening for gaming enthusiasts.
Hosted as a celebration of the venue's successful one-year anniversary, the event brought together players of all ages and interests for a late-night gaming extravaganza. The party ran until 12:30 a.m.
offering attendees an extended night of gaming.
Guests were encouraged to bring their favorite games to share and enjoy with others, creating a diverse and exciting atmosphere. The event featured a communal setup where players bonded over video, board, and card games, forming new connections in the local gaming community.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Gamers Jessica Clark and Aiden Murray looking over some of their favorite items.
Gamer with owner Kyron Slazai in front of the many Games and Accessories available for sale.
Lillian and Dad Cody Blancher taking in the fun.
Two Oxford residents bilked out of nearly $250,000
According to the centre’s data, there were over 40,000 fraud reports processed from January last year up to October. There were over 20,000 victims and $503 million lost.
“They also have information like an index of scams A to Z and rip-offs affecting businesses. It’s really a great resource for people. These criminals keep changing their games and we have to be very mindful of that and help each other out.”
Crawford can often be seen around Oxford County giving talks to seniors and other groups with the consistent message of not becoming a victim. While she can’t say what effect her chats are having, she won’t stop getting the word out.
“It’s hard to gauge the success but I believe when I do a presentation and people take things away with them, they’ve done something to modify their behaviour and reduce the risk of becoming a victim. It might mean they are able to avoid certain scams because of what they have learned and are going to think twice. The more people share the information the better.”
Crawford added even she was very close to becoming a victim recently.
“I received a text on my phone and it said a UPS package was waiting for me and I had to pay a fee to get it. There was even a picture of it and although it didn’t have my name on it, I almost clicked it. I thought because of the Canada Post strike and I had ordered items over Christmas, it was very believable.”
She said without having the training to help others, she may have clicked on that link.
“The other thing people need to remember is nothing needs to be done right that second. Even if it is the government claiming they need to get in touch with you, they aren’t expecting it right that second. Sometimes, criminals will make it seem like you had to decide immediately.”
Crawford explained if someone owes the CRA money, oftentimes an agreement is worked out to pay over months as opposed to a one-time transaction.
The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website can be found at https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm or people can call 1-888-495-8501 for more information or to report a fraud.
To book a presentation from Constable Crawford, email her at Randi.Crawford@opp.ca.
Oxford Eats is back for January 2025
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Once Christmas is over many Oxford and area residents may not have the disposable income to go out and enjoy a great meal at one of the county’s many great restaurants, but Tourism Oxford is hoping people will through its Oxford Eats promotion.
Participating eateries come up with new menu items and promote them through the organization in the hopes of increasing sales over what is traditionally a slow period. The event runs from Jan. 17 to the 31.
Meredith Maywood, Oxford County’s Tourism Specialist, is hoping the initiative will be a boost to participating restaurants.
“We launched it last year knowing that January can sometimes be a quiet time of year but there are so many great
options for people in the county. When it's darker and the days are shorter, it’s nice to have a bit of a refresh to just get out and celebrate the local food scene.”
There is a small fee for restaurants to participate and Maywood added she is hopeful more establishments will come on board in 2026.
“Most of the restaurants are in the Woodstock area and it is time for us to get out and make more people aware of the program. We hope more will come on in the future but we did get great results last year with an increase in traffic and also new people coming in to check them out,” she added.
The federal government’s sales tax break will remain in effect during the two-week promotion, something Maywood hopes will boost sales.
“It’s some really great savings when you consider you could be going out and having dinner for
$25 to $30 or getting a gourmet meal up to $85 a person.”
She added Jordan’s Divine Dish in Norwich is a reasonably priced option at just $17.99.
“You could be having a plate of southern fried chicken. That’s a great value already. I’m pretty sure I want to go and try that or his maple chili chicken burger,” she quipped. “You can also have a six-ounce Manhattan steak for $35 with an app and dessert at Louie’s.”
Mike Gibson is the executive chef at Louie’s Pizza and Pasta in Ingersoll and said any help to get people in his seats is welcomed.
“January is slow for all restaurants after the Christmas season so we are hoping it will bring some people through the doors and at the same time support local businesses.”
This reporter, a seasoned veteran of all things steak, had no idea what a Mahattan was. Gib -
January 17-31 Want to give the oven a night off? Visit these restaurants for limited time 3 course menus priced from $19.99 to $84.99, or pop in for their weekly specials! New flavours, and great savings with the added HST break. Learn
son filled me in.
“It’s basically a striploin steak trimmed down and cut in half so it has a filet mignon presentation to it. It’s a bit of a thick cut but not as big and long as a typical striploin steak.”
Louie’s is also serving a Cajun shrimp fettuccine and both entries come with an appetizer and dessert, all for 35 bucks.
Gibson added Tourism Oxford’s work to attract more visitors to area restaurants is noticeable with people coming from far and wide.
“We have seen a lot of that with the Cheese Trail boost in the last couple of years. People are coming from Brantford and even the Toronto area. Our panzerotti challenge has been a big thing for us too.”
That challenge involves a massive pizza pie and about a quarter of those who decide to take it on are successful.
“Most people don’t order it
unless they are serious about eating it all. If they do, it’s free.”
Tourism Oxford supplies participating restaurants with a wide variety of marketing and advertising support to make the program successful.
“We are utilizing digital advertising in addition to radio and print. The restaurants also play a role in promoting what’s happening because they have a great audience and sometimes people just need a reminder why they should pop out and have a great meal,” explained Merryweather.
Other participating restaurants are Ironworks Kitchen, Brickhouse Brewpub, Finkle Street Tap and Grill, and sixthirtynine, all located in Woodstock.
More information is available at https://www.tourismoxford. ca/experience_oxford_responsibly/oxford_eats.aspx/#sixthirtynine.
1-866-801-7368 x3355
South Gate celebrates 2025
The South Gate Centre hosted a memorable New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31 at the Sally Creek Community Centre. The event featured music, delicious food, and festive cheer.
Guests enjoyed a beautifully prepared meal while mingling with friends and neighbors in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the venue. The evening’s entertainment was provided by Sound Dynamix, featuring Doug Russell,
whose lively music kept the dance floor packed until midnight.
There were several prizes and other surprises, adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. As the clock struck midnight, the celebration culminated in a champagne toast, allowing guests to ring in the New Year with a heartfelt sense of community and optimism for the year ahead.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
by
8) Who is the governor of California?
What is the birthstone for January?
In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, what is “the soul of
Jake & Stewart Grant
Line up of hungry guests for roast beef and chicken dinner.
Reverent Don Moore said grace and MC Rick Rose got the evening's event started.
Larry Stone, Walter Ferguson, Tom Wilson, June Milson, Margie Sharples and Kathy Wilson at their table ready for the evening of community fun ringing in the New Year.
Organizers for the event were Bev Rajar, Rick Rose, Nancy LaPlante and Tom Wilson.
Woodstock Kitten Nursery launches GoFundMe amid financial and volunteer struggles
The Woodstock Kitten Nursery and Rescue launched a GoFundMe page to ensure operations to support abandoned cats and kittens continue.
Cathrine Black, founder of the organization, told the Echo that the organization has been operating out of her basement, but it’s becoming unaffordable. The GoFundMe page aims to cover current expenses to continue operating and eventually build a nursery along with hiring a registered veterinary technician. As of Jan. 13, about $1,850 out of the $50,000 goal was raised.
Black said that reception was positive for a few days. However, after technical difficulties shut down the page, people are reluctant to donate.
“We are very far from our goal. We hope it will pick up again as we provide updates and new information from our board members and volunteers. We need this funding to continue to operate in the basement of our home.”
Black explained she sold a rental home to afford a partial down payment on the space where the organization is operating. She got the green light for the required zoning to build the nursery starting in the spring.
“Our struggle now is trying to raise funds to start the new build while trying to keep the nursery operating in the basement as the expenses are too much for us to handle personally.”
Over the past four years, the volunteer-run organization has helped over 500 cats and kittens. The Woodstock Kitten Nursery and Rescue faced a never-ending kitten season with little support from municipal or provincial governments.
“We believe the province and municipalities need to step up to help more financially. By educating our communities with the knowledge and understanding that we, the charities and non-profits in the area, are stepping up to do our best to relieve some of the
pressure on our communities dealing with the animal dumping crisis, perhaps they will more readily support our work.”
Financial donations are also lower, as it has been with other charities.
“Animal welfare charities have been extremely hard hit as people's disposable incomes also dry up,” Black said. “It is a very precarious position to be in but as animal lovers, we cannot just give up and throw in the towel. Therefore, we keep fighting and fundraising with the hope that we will somehow win this battle.”
Black added several of her young volunteers with mental health issues have improved their coping skills.
“Because of our inclusiveness and compassionate volunteers,” she said. “We have seen tremendous growth in their self-esteem and watched as their coping skills flourish as they care for the cats and kittens here. We work as a team and everyone participates as much as they are comfortable with.”
Still, the Woodstock Kitten Nursery urgently needs volunteers to help with the nursery and fundraising. Black said the organization struggles with volunteer retention.
“Many of our volunteers have had to take mental health breaks which is quite understandable in our current environment. Compassion fatigue is real, and we need more volunteers to lessen the load for our core volunteers, coordinators and board members,” she said.
Donations to the GoFundMe campaign will be accepted online via https://www.gofundme.com/f/Savewknr. More information about the Woodstock Kitten Nursery and Rescue can be found by visiting www. facebook.com/woodstockkittennursery.
EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent
Work on Vansittart Ave bridge expected to be completed in February
Major rehabilitation work on the Oxford Road 59 (Vansittart Avenue) bridge in Woodstock is in its final stages and should be finished in late February according to a county news release.
“Reconstruction work on the bridge was a significant undertaking over the past 11 months, requiring complete removal and replacement of the existing bridge deck, repairs to the structure, and a new wider deck to accommodate bike lanes and sidewalks,” stated the release.
Oxford County and its contractor, Sierra Construction, are working to complete the project as quickly as possible and thank residents for their cooperation and patience.
“Remaining work is weather and temperature dependent, however, and could be impacted by adverse conditions such as extreme cold. If temperatures remain consistently in the negative double digits, work may be paused until weather conditions allow for final construction work to take place.”
Updates on the project are available at www.oxfordcounty.ca/59bridge.
STAFF
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo
(OXFORD COUNTY PHOTO)
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo SPORTS
Shades of ‘competitive cop’ exists within WCI skip Schaeffer’s ‘good cop’
JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent
A bit of ‘competitive cop’ might exist behind Woodstock CI Red Devils girls curling skip Alexis Schaeffer’s ‘good cop’ approach.
The first half of her pre-game statement, encouraging teammates to ‘Just go out and do their best’ is 100 per cent sincere. But according to vice Lauren Ellis, there’s a little wiggle room on the back end about Schaeffer ‘Not caring if we win or lose.’
“I know her,” Ellis laughed, “she’s seriously like, ‘I want to win, I want to win.’”
Wishing to perform well is not a bad thing Schaeffer countered with a smile, and relative at that.
“You think I’m bad - wait until Grace (Curley, WCI’s second skip) comes.”
The Red Devils’ shared pursuit of excellence has been rewarded through the first four weeks of the TVRA South East season, a perfect 4-0 win-lossrecord, 22 ends won and 46 points for, versus four against. Their record includes an 11-0 win over St. Thomas Central Elgin, 13-1 against Aylmer East Elgin and a tighter 8-2 success with Woodstock St. Mary’s. WCI’s fourth win came Wednesday, December 18th at the Ingersoll Curling Club, a nifty fourth-end last-rock draw by St. Thomas Parkside Stampeders skip Clara Gunn preventing a clean sweep. Schaffer responded with a draw for five in the fifth, adding a steal of one in the sixth to round a 14-1 final.
Eight female curlers are moved in and out of the lineup, including Cassandra Stewart, Taylor Leis, Sarah Porter, Cassandra DeWitt and Megan Howe.
The 2023 version of the Red Devils, including Schaeffer, finished third at WOSSAA last season, and according to Ellis, hopes to both upgrade and advance beyond regional finals this season.
“I want a (provincial final OFSAA) sweater,” Schaeffer explained.
The WCI boys were also in action, earning a considerably tighter 8-7 victory over the Stampeders, a margin defined both in terms of scoring separation and a crucial fifth-end mea -
approach
surement that counted a fourth Red Devils stone.
“It was like a millimetre difference - (but) a point is a point,” said vice Avery Howell, competing on the boys’ team due to a shortage there, and the increased playing time her choice represents over the girls’ rotation. Under league rules, girls can play on boys teams, but not vice versa, and Howell joins a squad including Grade 9 front end Harry Langford and Andrew Surette.
Skip Alex Chiles’ had hit a guard with his last shot, spilling two stones into the house as counters. The resultant ‘four’ gave WCI an 8-3 lead at the time, which stood up through Parkside singles in the sixth and seventh, and a final-end steal of two by skip Nate Vanderhoeven.
“Every end was pretty close, so I liked that,” said Chiles.
The WCI boys also sat in first place in the TVRA South East standings as of the Christmas break, with a 2-2 won-lost record. Chiles’ seasonal goals, like Schaeffer’s, are to extend the team’s post-season through WOSSAA and beyond.
“Gotta keep that positive attitude,” he concluded.
TVRA South East Girls Curling
Friday, January 10
Ingersoll DCI 6, Aylmer East Elgin 3
St. Thomas Parkside 7, Woodstock Huron Park 3
Woodstock St. Mary’s CHS 6, Tillsonburg Glendale 3
Ingersoll DCI 8, St. Mary’s 0
Wednesday, January 8
Woodstock CI 8, Ingersoll DCI 4
St. Thomas Central Elgin 8, St. Mary’s 1
Woodstock Huron Park 6, Glendale 1
Wednesday, December 18
WCI 14, Parkside 1
Wednesday, December 11
Ingersoll DCI 8, Glendale 1 WCI 8, St. Mary’s CHS 2
Wednesday, December 4
St. Mary’s 6, Woodstock Huron Park 4
WCI 13, East Elgin 1
Wednesday, November 27
Ingersoll DCI 8, Parkside 3 East Elgin 6, Huron Park 2 WCI 11, Central Elgin 0
TVRA South East Boys Curling
Friday, January 10
Ingersoll DCI 8, St. Mary’s CHS 2
Woodstock St. Mary’s CHS 11, Tillsonburg Glendale 0
Aylmer East Elgin 9, Ingersoll
DCI 3
Wednesday, January 8
St. Mary’s CHS 6, St. Thomas Central Elgin 3
Woodstock CI 7, Ingersoll DCI 6
Wednesday, December 14
WCI 8, Parkside 7
St. Mary’s CHS 5, East Elgin 5
Wednesday, December 11
Ingersoll DCI 10, Glendale 7
St. Mary’s 8, WCI 6
Wednesday, December 4
WCI 10, East Elgin 1
Wednesday, November 27
Central Elgin 8, WCI 3
Parkside 8, Ingersoll DCI 4
WCI boys curling vice Avery Howell (left) takes a glance at skip Alex Chiles, while she and teammate Andrew Surette (right) sweeps a Red Devils stone down the ice.
WCI skip Alexis Schaeffer (centre) follows her shot, being swept by the Red Devils front end, Cassandra Stewart (left) and lead Taylor Leis (right).
WCI sweepers, from left, Cassandra Stewart, Alexis Schaeffer and Taylor Leis team up to sweep a stone into the house.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Warriors passive-aggressive defence combo leads to victory
JEFF TRIBE
Echo Correspondent
Even the Woodstock St. Mary’s Warriors’ comparatively passive defensive choice was aggressive through a 6621 Thames Valley Regional Athletics (TVRA) South East junior boys’ basketball victory over the homecourt Woodstock College Avenue Knights on Dec. 17.
The Warriors opened the contest with full-on aggressive fullcourt 1-3-1 up pressure, creating points off turnovers which contributed to a 19-7 advantage through the first quarter, upped to 33-11 by the half.
“That’s usually how we start the game,” said Warriors wing Johnny Bortoia, who finished with a game-high 16 points. “I feel like our defence turns into offence for us.”
St. Mary’s dropped back into a 2-3 zone, which while passive in comparison, still held a high level of aggression at the top, Destiny Omirigbe among others looking to disrupt opposing guards through turnovers and outright steals.
“It kind of breaks the other team’s spirit knowing they can’t penetrate through our defence,” said Omirigbe, who tries to read opponents’ body language to anticipate where the ball is going.
“I’m looking for the pass over my head and the steal,” said the Warriors guard, who while finishing with 12 points, enjoys both offence and defence.
St. Mary’s won every quarter, taking the third and fourth by margins of 17-7 and 16-3 respectively, evening their TVRA South East record at 2-2 before the Christmas break.
“They’re a bunch of ball hawks,” credited Warriors coach Jonathan Circelli, a math teacher with a literary bent who feels St. Mary’s may surprise people later on during the season. “They guys gel well, when they’re playing, it’s like poetry.”
Emmanuel Fadeyi added 12 points for the Warriors, Wani Atiki eight, Owen Choi six, Quinton Mitchell and Zion Fagbola three apiece and Josh Morgan and Tristan Manalo one field goal each.
“They’re pretty quick,” credited Knights’ guard Dewan Monger, who along with Greyson Padfield shared their team scoring lead with seven points each, including a threepoint field goal apiece.
Padfield’s best work came on the inside for College Ave., protecting the rim and working the boards.
“We just couldn’t control the ball, get the ball into our offence.”
Luca McKevicius, Nick Horinga and Dexter Quipp-Yanger added a field goal each for the Knights and Easton Freeman one free throw.
TVRA South East Junior Boys Basketball
Thursday, January 9
Woodstock St. Mary’s 61, Woodstock Huron Park 42 Tillsonburg 49, Ingersoll 29
Wednesday, January 8
College Avenue 42, Woodstock CI 30
Tuesday, January 7
Ingersoll DCI 52, College Avenue 37
St. Mary’s 39, Central Elgin 19 Parkside 52, Huron Park 37
Woodstock CI 59, Lord Dorchester 39
Tuesday, December 17
Woodstock Huron Park 49, Woodstock CI 29
St. Mary’s 66, College Avenue 21
Ingersoll DCI 40, Lord Dorchester 20
Senior
Thursday, January 9
Ingersoll DCI 60, Tillsonburg Glendale 47
Woodstock St. Mary’s 61, Woodstock Huron Park 54
Wednesday, January 8
Woodstock CI 62, Woodstock College Avenue 48
Tuesday, January 7
College Avenue 60, Ingersoll 40
St. Mary’s 70, St. Thomas Central Elgin 55
St. Thomas Parkside 59, Huron Park 39
Woodstock CI 68, Lord Dorchester 62
Tuesday, December 17
Woodstock College Avenue 73, Woodstock St. Mary’s 62 Woodstock CI 65, Woodstock Huron Park 45
College Avenue guard Dewan Monger works the ball against a St. Mary’s defensive trio including, from left, Destiny Omirigbe, Johnny Bertoia and Quinton Mitchell.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
College Avenue Knight Easton Freeman tries to protect possession of the ball against St. Mary’s Warrior Owen Choi.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
St. Mary’s Warrior Johnny Bertoia drives to the hoop against College Avenue’s Easton Freeman.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
‘Bar-out’ instead of ‘bar-down’ helps preserve Glendale victory
JEFF TRIBE
Echo Correspondent
The Tillsonburg Gemini kept their undefeated TVRA South East boys’ hockey streak alive on Jan. 9 at Tillsonburg’s Memorial Arena.
But the visiting Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers made them work for it, ‘bar-out’ instead of ‘bar-down’ away from a potentially different outcome than a 3-1 Gemini victory.
“Crossbar,” Blue Bomber forward Jeremy Stiles reported of a shot that rang loudly off the iron with 1:21 remaining in the third period. “Tough. Needed that one.”
There was a little more on the line for several players on both teams including Stiles, who when not representing their respective schools, play minor hockey together on the Shamrock League’s South Oxford Storm. They’re still friends out on the ice as high school opponents says Stiles, although that doesn’t mean they hold back.
“Just have fun but also try and win,” he explained.
And while there might be a little ‘chirping’ about the outcome come the Storm’s next game, Stiles was ready for it.
“Probably,” he admitted, “but I won’t care.”
Stiles’ teammate W. Parsons
had put IDCI on the scoreboard with 10:21 to play in the third, assisted by N. Muller. Parsons’ goal cut Glendale’s lead to 2-1 at the time but Glendale’s Rilan Swain restored the twogoal advantage with 2:06 remaining, ripping an unassisted marker home off the left wing, blocker side.
Tillsonburg had opened scoring with 4:14 left in the first, taking a 2-0 lead on a beautiful cross-crease pass with 4:08 remaining in the second.
The game was a tight, wellplayed contest with the odd heavy hit, but few penalties as both rosters stuck to disciplined hockey. Blue Bombers coach Chris Adkins gave Glendale credit for a better job of puck possession, limiting IDCI scoring chances. The Bombers had generated some quality opportunities he continued, however, had also lost a couple of two-on-one chances through errant passes.
But in a league where every team makes the playoffs, Adkins was pleased with a strong outing between two quality teams as a chance to build toward that postseason.
“Both teams played the game the way it should be played.”
TVRA South East Boys Hockey
Thursday, January 9
Tillsonburg Glendale 3, Ingersoll DCI 1
Wednesday, January 8
Woodstock St. Mary’s 8, Wood stock College Avenue 3
Tuesday, January 7
Ingersoll DCI 5, Woodstock
St. Mary’s CHS 1
Woodstock CI 3, Woodstock Huron Park 3
Tuesday, December 17
St. Mary’s 6, Huron Park 3
Glendale 5, College Avenue 0
Thursday, December 18
Lord Dorchester 2, Ingersoll 1
Woodstock CI 6, Aylmer East Elgin 2
Thursday, December 19
WCI 6, East Elgin 2
Lord Dorchester 2, Ingersoll DCI 1
Tuesday, December 17
Glendale 5, Woodstock College Avenue 0
St. Mary’s CHS 6, Huron Park 3
Thursday, December 12
St. Mary’s CHS 6, WCI 4
Wednesday, December 11
WCI 4, Parkside 3 East Elgin 3, College Avenue 1
TVRA South East Girls Hockey
Thursday, January 9
St. Thomas Parkside 4, Ingersoll DCI 1
Lord Dorchester 8, Woodstock Huron Park 2
Tuesday, January 7
Parkside 4, Woodstock CI 2
Thursday, December 19
Ingersoll DCI 5, East Elgin 0
Lord Dorchester 4, WCI 0
Tuesday, December 17
East Elgin 4, Huron Park 3
Wednesday, December 11
WCI 3, East Elgin 2
The Woodstock College Avenue Knights were shut out during a Dec. 17 road game against Tillsonburg Glendale.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Ingersoll DCI’s J. Robles (left) drives to the net against defensive attention from Tillsonburg Gemini captain Rilan Swain (right).
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Ingersoll DCI’s Jeremy Stiles (left) takes a swipe at the puck along with Tillsonburg Gemini goalie Jack Bruder as defender Owen Ardy looks on.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Red Devils ride ‘M’-omentum to junior girls’ volleyball victory
JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent
Momentum is part of every sport.
However, it’s arguable that in volleyball, it should be spelled with a capital ‘M’ for its well-demonstrated ability to turn a game, set and match’s outcome on a dime.
The Dec. 17 TVRA South East junior girls’ matchup between the Woodstock Huron Park Huskies and host Woodstock CI Red Devils provided a perfect case in point.
“The volleyball karma of sorts,” summed up WCI coach Jeff Melanson following a 26-24, 25-17, 25-15 match victory whose scores most definitely did not tell the whole tale. “I don’t know how to put it beyond that.”
The Huskies had opened up a comfortable 20-12 lead in the first set, and appeared well en route to victory, with positive implications for the match. However, Red Devils power Hope McMichael turned a long first pass headed into the net into a leaping desperation and scoring tip.
“I just really wanted a point,” recalled McMichael, a setter with her Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) team, who plays well beyond her 5 foot 2 height at power for WCI.
“I try to never get my hopes down,” she added, “but we had to come back for sure.”
WCI closed the gap with a series of conservative underhanded serves from Allison VanDer Wyngaard, off-speed deliveries if you will which dropped short against a Huskies defence struggling in the moment to adjust.
“I feel like we lost a point and everyone lost their momentum,” said Huron Park’s Stella Green.
“And the feeling we were going to win,” added middle Shantel Henry.
The game hung in the balance as the score closed to 24-23 as both squads had their chances before the Red Devils closed out the 26-24 win on a Lily Melanson kill and McMichael service winner, respectively.
“Just never give up, you can always come back,” said McMichael, who also powered the set-two game-winning point home on a kill past a Green’s block attempt.
Having found their collective volleyball legs, WCI finished off the match victory with a comfortable set three win.
“It’s all about the mind,” Henry summed up.
“Volleyball is very much a mind game,” Green agreed. “Very much.”
The Huskies teammates got no argument from WCI coach Melanson.
“It shifts really quickly, right?” he agreed.
“You can’t get overconfident when
you get up by six points,” the WCI bench boss added. “You flip the coin too. If you’re down, you say let’s have a short memory and claw back into this point by point.”
Melanson’s preferred approach is avoiding over-coaching during game play, letting his players figure things out as much as they can.
“Sometimes it’s good to have adversity.”
He does try to prepare his team during practice, however, simulating closing out games by setting a theoretical score of 20-20.
“What does it take to get over that hump? We play that mind game.”
TVRA South East Junior Girls Volleyball
Thursday, January 9
Woodstock Huron Park 25, 25, 17, 23, 15; Woodstock St. Mary’s CHS 16, 15, 25, 25, 6
Tillsonburg Glendale 20, 25, 25, 17, 17 ; Ingersoll DCI 25, 22, 22, 25, 15
Woodstock CI 25, 24, 25, 25; Woodstock College Avenue 13, 16, 19, 22
Tuesday, January 7
Ingersoll DCI 25, 25, 25; College Avenue 11, 14, 15
St. Mary’s 26, 25, 25; St. Thomas Central Elgin 24, 19, 22
Lord Dorchester 25, 25, 19, 19, 15; Woodstock CI 17, 15, 25, 25, 6
Tuesday, December 17
Lord Dorchester 25, 22, 19, 25, 15; Ingersoll DCI 21, 25, 25, 12, 8
Woodstock CI 26, 25, 25; Wood -
stock Huron Park 24, 17, 15
Thursday, December 12
Ingersoll DCI 25, 25, 25; Huron Park 12, 17, 15
Glendale 25, 26, 25; St. Mary’s CHS 14, 24, 16
St. Thomas St. Joe’s 25, 25, 25; Woodstock College Avenue 12, 20, 8
Senior
Thursday, January 9
Ingersoll DCI 25, 25, 28; Tillsonburg Glendale 19, 20, 26
Huron Park 25, 25, 25; St. Mary’s 11, 11, 7
Wednesday, January 8
Woodstock CI 25, 25, 27; College Avenue 17, 11, 25
Tuesday, January 7
Woodstock CI 25, 25, 25; Lord Dorchester 15, 21, 12
Parkside 25, 25, 25; Huron Park 15, 12, 19
Central Elgin 25, 25, 25; St. Mary’s 17, 20, 11
Ingersoll DCI 25, 25, 25; College Avenue 9, 15, 18
Wednesday, December 18
Central Elgin 25, 23, 25, 25; Woodstock E.S. Notre Dame 15, 25, 20, 16
Tuesday, December 17
Woodstock CI 25, 25, 25; Huron Park 16, 19, 19
Ingersoll DCI 25, 25, 25; Lord Dorchester 10, 21, 13
St. Thomas St. Joe’s 25, 25, 25; Notre Dame 15, 17, 14
Huron Park’s Shonique Bertam (left) and WCI’s Lily Melanson have a ‘high-level discussion’ at the net.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Woodstock CI Red Devils Charly Banbury (left) and Lily Melanson (centre) move the ball over the net against Huron Park’s Shantel Henry.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Woodstock St. Mary’s Junior Warrior Claire Collings (foreground) makes a desperation play on a ball Thursday, January 9 at Woodstock Huron Park as teammate Marissa Blain pulls up to avoid colliding with her.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Robinson golden goal ‘Silver’ for Ponting Financial Group U11 Wildcats
McKinley Robinson’s Silver Stick golden goal capped a dramatic come-from-behind International C championship for the Woodstock Wildcats Ponting Financial Group U11 girls in December at the Port Elgin Arena.
“They were all super excited,” said coach Bryan Smith of the overtime game and tournament-winning tally in a 4-3 final victory over the Wingham 86ers. “Tons of cheering, throwing their gloves in the air.”
Robinson’s game-winner came in three-onthree overtime, pouncing on a puck cleared outside the Wildcats zone following an unsuccessful pinch by an 86ers defender. The tension built said coach Smith as Robinson skated in alone on the Wingham goalie.
“And put it short side, top shelf.”
Robinson also jump-started the Wildcats from a 2-0 first-period deficit. Having skated through round-robin and semi-final play not only undefeated but without giving up a goal, Woodstock found itself in an unfamiliar position in the final against a squad from the other side of the draw it had neither previously seen nor faced.
“A very strong-skating team,” credited Smith. “Heavy on the forecheck for sure.”
The Wildcats’ coaching staff’s approach of taking each game period by period was a factor in their favour.
“We don’t always win the game from the first to the third,” explained Smith, whose message between the first and second frames was to get back to their game, the puck on their sticks and off the 86ers’, all three lines rolling and contributing.
“We have to work hard, keep the pressure up and play Wildcats hockey,” he summarized.
Woodstock showed its resilience said Smith, with Robinson’s first goal proving a catalyst. Lauren Clark set it up off a draw in the 86ers zone, winning a face-off cleanly back to her teammate.
“McKinley ripped it from the top of the circles,” said Smith of a marker which boosted the Wildcats’ energy both on the ice and the bench. “That first goal really helped pick it up.”
Wingham restored its two-goal lead, however Elyse Ward replied for Woodstock with 5:34 to play in the second and Isla Hons got the Wildcats back even 2:05 later, on an assist
to Robinson.
The third period played out without a goal, sending the contest into an overtime session Woodstock had prepared for, albeit painfully, through a semi-final overtime loss during a Remembrance Day tournament in Fergus.
“I think we took it as a good learning experience,” said Smith. “We wanted to remember what happened last time, but not let it weigh us down.”
Apart from gold medals, a trophy and a banner, the girls are extremely excited to sign and hang in Woodstock’s Civic Centre Arena, the Silver Stick tournament had been thoroughly enjoyable said Smith, including a Friday evening skills (skating, shot accuracy and goalie) competition.
“There was a lot of fun stuff.”
Woodstock opened with a 9-0 shutout win over the Belmont Blazers. Cassie Ward had a
hat trick to lead the winners; Ruthie Wilson and Clark each had two goals and an assist, Robinson had two goals, and Hons had one assist.
The Wildcats kept rolling with a 10-0 win over the Kincardine Kinucks, paced offensively by Robinson’s hat-trick plus an assist performance. Hons added two goals, Clark a goal and two assists, Wilson and Jenna Hamulecki a goal and an assist apiece, Abigail Streatch and Ward one goal each, Faye Dorie two assists and Emma Ponting and Annabella Smith one helper each.
Woodstock closed out round-robin play undefeated on Dec. 14 on the strength of a 5-0 shutout of the Walkerton Capitals. Robinson finished with two goals, Ward, Clark and Wilson one apiece and Hamulecki one assist.
The Wildcats returned to the Southampton Coliseum the following morning for a repeat
bout with the Capitals, advancing to the final with another 5-0 shutout. Robinson finished with a hat-trick and an assist, Hons and Wilson a goal each, Clark three assists and Ponting and Smith one apiece.
The Silver Stick title represents a major goal for the U11 Wildcats, looking ahead to their home tournament early in January and Western Ontario Girls Hockey League (WOGHL) playoffs towards the end of the month. Woodstock’s pre-Christmas league record stood at 10-2-0 said Smith, who is also anticipating round-robin Provincial C championship preliminaries beginning at the end of January. It is his understanding the top two of seven teams qualify for the provincial tournament, hosted this year in the GTA.
“Super excited to win the Silver Stick and now turning our focus to WOGHL playoffs and hopefully qualifying for the provincials.”
Active for Life 50-plus league aims to keep soccer games social
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
Woodstock FC will be expanding its programming for older players who want to step away from the competition and have fun playing soccer as a social activity.
The Woodstock Soccer Club is launching its Active for Life 50-plus co-ed recreational soccer league. There will be a maximum of 60 players who are 50 years old and older playing in a 5 versus 5 format every Friday at 7 p.m. from Feb. 28 to April 25. The league
will have no carding, scoring, or standings.
"Like the title says, Active for Life,” said Timothy Jansen, adult league convenor. “We’re trying to just promote being active and being able to stay in shape. It's a good weekly endeavour to go out and socialize with other people their age and get together."
The program came out of players in the 35-plus league aging out of it.
"Original players pretty well moved up in age,” Jansen said. “They were getting to that age where they were like we can't play with 18 and 19-year-old kids.
It's too competitive. We just can't compete with them."
The 35-plus league played on a smaller field, but players aged out of that group too.
"Now we're pretty well finding that we have athletes that are around the 50 are like I can't play with 35-year-olds, so now we're looking at the next phase for them,” Jansen explained.
As Active for Life was announced just before Christmas, registration has been low so far. However, Jansen said it has been talked a lot about in the region and registration is expected to pick up.
Joining Active for Life will cost $120 and include a jersey, socks, insurance and referee fees.
There will also be a division of Active for Life for younger soccer players who are 18 years old and over. Those games will be on the same Friday nights, at 8 p.m.
To register for the Active for Life 50-plus league, visit go.teamsnap.com/ forms/442562. Any questions can be addressed to Jansen (woodstock_soccer_ club@yahoo.com) or to club administrator Wendy Gravel (Wendy.Gravel@ woodstocksoccer.com).
JEFF TRIBE
Echo Correspondent
The International Silver Stick Girls’ C champion Woodstock Wildcats U11 girls. Nora Dorie and Jade Thompson are in the front row, left to right. In the second row, are Annabelle Smith, Jade Davidson, Emrie Snow sell, Abby Streatch, Lauren Clark and Ruthie Wilson. In the third row, are Isla Hons, Reilly O’Leary, Addie Gill, Emma Ponting, Faye Dorie, Cassie Ward, Jenna Hamulecki, McKinley Robinson and Elyse Ward. The coaching staff in the back row includes Courtney Davidson, Michelle Ponting, Bryan Smith (head coach), Tom Gill and Jeff Ponting (absent).
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Learning to curl on New Year’s Eve
The inaugural New Year’s Eve Learn 2 Curl event was held on the afternoon of Dec. 31 at the Woodstock Curling Centre and was a resounding success.
The free event welcomed participants of all ages and abilities to experience one of the most popular Winter Olympic sports in a fun and engaging setting. Participants learned the basics including how to slide, sweep effectively and understand the rules, strategy and etiquette.
Volunteers and instructors provided hands-on guidance, creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, from first-time curlers to those looking to brush up on their skills. Safety was prioritized, with helmets required for participants aged 12 and under and a clean pair of indoor running shoes as part of the dress code. Enthusiastic community members turned out in droves, with many expressing newfound appreciation for curling and excitement
about continuing to explore the sport.
Organizers were thrilled with the turnout and positive feedback, noting that events like these help foster a sense of community while introducing more people to the joys of curling. “It was amazing to see so many people of all ages come together to try something new and celebrate the new year in such an active and engaging way,” said one of the event coordinators.
With the success of the inaugural event, organizers hinted at the possibility of making the Learn 2 Curl session an annual tradition, ensuring even more community members can discover the sport.
The Woodstock Curling Centre offers all levels of curling, including Learn 2 Curl, Rookie Rocks, Fun Leagues, Mixed Leagues, Youth Leagues and a talented Special Olympics team that has won provin -
cial championships twice in the last ten years. January and October Learn 2 Curl sessions run for six weeks and provide more in-depth instructions and practice. Upon completion, participants can join Rookie Rocks to play in a league with other curlers who have less than three years of experience.
More information is available at http://www. woodstockcurling.com.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
JOIN THE WOODSTOCK HOSPITAL BOARD OF TRUST
Woodstock Hospital is recruiting one volunteer board member to join the Board of Trust. Applicants must either live or work in Woodstock or its immediate surrounding area.
The Board serves as the governing body for the Woodstock Hospital and is a skills-based Board. We are seeking Board members that have a technology and/or human resources background. We strive to provide excellent patient care and promote health and wellness for those we serve.
Board members have a unique opportunity to further shape our healthcare for our community. The Board’s governance responsibilities include:
• Mission, Vision, Values
• Strategic Planning
• Financial Stewardship
• Quality and Performance Monitoring
Learn more about the hospital’s stratgic initiatives and
mission, vision and values statements by visiting the Woodstock Hospital website www.woodstockhospital.ca
In addition to monthly meetings that occur on the last Tuesday of the month (except July, August and December) at 5:00 p.m., Board members may also be appointed to one or more Standing Committees of the Board.
Term of Office
The duration of each term is 3 years. Board members may serve a maximum of 4 terms.
How to Apply
Prospective candidates are invited to email their resume to Heather Scherer at hscherer@woodstockhospital.ca Please include a cover letter detailing why you would be the ideal candidate.
Deadline
The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 17, 2025 at 4:00 pm.
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: The challenges of an historic town at the confluence of three rivers
PAUL KNOWLES Echo Contributor
There is a well-worn cliché about travelling in Europe: “I’ve seen enough castles and cathedrals!” Well, I am a pretty big fan of castles and cathedrals, but I do understand there can be too much of a good thing. And there is no lack of either castle or cathedral in the historic towns and cities of western Europe.
And yes, the German town of Passau does have a castle and, in fact, a cathedral, but don’t let that stop you from including it on your itinerary. There is so much more here, including a long and dramatic history of coexisting with the three rivers that meet, right here, and the frequent crises arising from that uneasy coexistence.
We were in Passau as part of our excellent Viking River Cruise, Romantic Danube. It’s probably true that the Danube can be very romantic at a time when it is flowing peacefully through Passau, but when we were there, the Danube and the other two rivers that meet here, the Inn and the Ilz, were in flood and the lowest parts of the town were already underwater.
But that, believe it or not, is one of the most interesting reasons to visit this historic town located just west of the Austrian border.
The story here is one of perseverance and community cooperation. Passau has existed for more than two millennia, founded because of the trade benefits of the three rivers that occasionally become its enemies. In medieval days, the number-one trade commodity was salt. Today, it’s tourists.
Like many of the towns located along the Danube, the community rises quickly from the riverbank into the hills round about. So, while the homes and businesses nearer the river are very vulnerable to high water, the upper levels of the community are impervious to flooding.
We saw dramatic examples of both realities when we toured Passau. Our guide admitted that, since the river had just started to rise, he could take us around the town – skirting some streets that were turning into streams – but that a day or two later, he personally would be temporarily confined to his three-floor apartment, as water would have risen a metre or two against his building. We saw many nearby homes and businesses barricaded with sandbags and metal flood barriers.
But then we ascended some rather steep but scenic cobbled streets to the square where St. Stephen’s Cathedral is located. And no, cathedral cynics, this is no ordinary church. St. Stephen’s is home to the largest pipe organ outside the United States, an instrument that includes 17,974 pipes, 233 stops and four carillons. I have heard it played and it is truly worth the trip. The temporary bad news is I didn’t hear it on this visit because the
organ is being refurbished, a project that will extend into next year.
But the cathedral is magnificent in its own right and while you won’t hear the organ in 2025, you may be fortunate enough to hear the eight bells in the cathedral’s bell tower.
One of my favourite streets in lower Passau is the Artists’ Alley, where local artists have their shops and studios, and where they paint the cobblestones in bright colours and hang whimsical pieces of art above the street.
You can get a great view of Passau and its rivers from the Veste Oberhaus, the castle high atop the hillside on the opposite side of the Danube from the cathedral. Other popular photo stops include the Ro-
man Tower, the Bishop’s Palace and the oldest church.
But be sure to spend time on the river front, contemplating the dual nature of Passau’s situation – ideal for trade in times gone by, for transportation during the days of the Roman Empire and for river-cruise stops today, but also, subject to the whims of nature and the temperament of the Danube and its sister rivers.
It’s definitely appropriate the Danube was named for the great river goddess of the Celtic tribes. We learned that from Isis-Sybille Frisch, an expert on the Danube who gave an amazing lecture onboard the Viking Var. When you sail on the Danube, she told us, you are travelling on “the major river of mainland Europe,” a
waterway that stretches 2,896 kilometres from the Black Forest and to the Black Sea, and passes through 10 European countries. We visited four of them on our cruise.
As we sailed on a Danube swelled by heavy rains upstream from Passau, Frisch observed, “Despite all human intervention, we cannot control the river.” The great river goddess will have the last say, and the historic high-water markings on the buildings of Passau offer dramatic documentation of her more violent moods.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@golden.net.
Danube expert and historian Isis-Sybille Frisch, who lectured aboard the Viking Var.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Passau's Castle, the Veste Oberhaus.
Flood heights are marked on the walls of waterfront buildings in Passau, the German town at the confluence of three rivers.
Zorra Township News
Meet Zorra
CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent
Township’s new CAO
The Township of Zorra has a new top staffer advising council and she’s hoping to bring more initiatives, partnerships, and perspectives to the township in her tenure.
“Council is very forward-thinking,” Diane Larder, the township’s new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) told the Echo. “And that's something that I look forward to working with them on. How we can move Zorra forward with initiatives, with partnering, with different ideas on how to do things.”
Larder took over the position from Don MacLeod late last year. Having been serving in the top spot for a few months now, Larder said that she is enjoying the new challenge despite the big shoes she’s filling.
Larder joined the township as director of finance back in 2021. She originally got her start in municipal administration at Oxford County in the early 2000s before joining the municipality of South-West Oxford as deputy treasurer. There, she moved up to treasurer and deputy CAO roles before coming to Zorra.
While not originally from Zorra, Larder grew up a stone’s throw away in the country south of Ingersoll, the town she has been living in with her family for over 30 years.
“We enjoy Oxford County and all that it offers,” Larder said. “It's in the centre, it's close to the 401 which allows us to travel either west or east, and we still have the rural component that we can access any of the local farms and the foods that are ground in our markets and that which we really enjoy.
“It’s a big family,” Larder went on to say about the local community here. “They come together and are willing to help if there's a need, and we see it through our charities. Or if someone has an emergency that has happened or a disaster, the community members step up and help, and we try and support each other.”
Moving from director of finance to the top staffing position, Larder said that she was ready to look at the township through a different lens – rather than just through a financial lens. She is eager to assist residents and improve and maintain the municipality’s service levels.
For instance, Larder would like to see
more greener initiatives as other levels of government implement more mandates. She would also like to investigate a community hub in Thamesford or Embro where residents can access all its services in one area.
Medical services in town are also an idea Larder would like to investigate. As she said, every city and town is working on trying to attract healthcare services to their region, and the municipality would have to explore the possibility with other levels of government, however, Larder believes it would be beneficial to residents who have to drive to Ingersoll, Dorchester, London, or farther afield for medical care.
Larder shared that MacLeod told her to keep being herself and putting her spin on the position, saying that he was confident she would do a great job. That being said, Larder was adamant the whole team at the township continues to benefit the community. She highlighted their passion for not only the workplace but for the wider community as well.
“Don has done a remarkable job at the township here and he has mentored and shaped all the municipality,” Larder said. “Zorra is a great municipality. The staff are amazing. I couldn't do it without the staff. I look at myself that I'm at the back of the ship. They're the ones that are steering it and leading the way. I'm just guiding them.”
Provincial funds to curb rising policing costs being saved for future years
The “nice little Christmas present,” as Coun. Paul Mitchell called it, of over $200,000 from the Province of Ontario to mitigate its high policing costs won’t be used to curb this year’s budget, Zorra Township Council decided.
At its Dec. 18 meeting, council voted instead to transfer those funds to reserves in anticipation of future police cost increases, maintaining the 2025 budget’s original policing cost of $1,478,974.
“When we look at the 2026 budget, we may be happy that we have a couple $100,000 maybe to work with,” Mitchell said, just prior to council voting to save it.
This year there was a 18.96 per cent increase in OPP costs compared to last year, which represented a total tax levy increase of 2.03 per cent. The sharp rise in costs were largely due to salary increases and the rapid growth of the municipality.
The OPP provide the township’s policing service and are located in Tillsonburg and Ingersoll, with satellite offices in Thamesford and Embro. Per an agreement with the OPP, the township pays for any increase in services it needs and estimates ahead of the new year how many calls of service will be made.
Additionally, the OPP reconcile two years back, so each year the township is reconciled or billed the difference of ac -
tuals versus estimates. In 2025, $82,000 is being paid to the OPP to reconcile 2023 on top of the estimated costs of the coming year.
Coun. Kevin Stewart agreed with Mitchell, also pointing out that each year the reconciliation is a “wildcard.”
There’s no telling what the price will be until the municipality gets the bill.
“That could also be a safeguard,” Stewart said about the provincial funding. “Because if we're having to absorb some unexpected adjustment at the end of 2024, that may affect what we can put in our budget for the next year as well.”
The 2025 budget has been passed; however, the bylaw associated with the budget has yet to be voted on.
The total 2025 tax levy is $12,231,845,
an over $600,000 – or 5.26 per cent –increase.
The levy increase is not the same as the tax rate increase that residents will pay in property taxes, rather it represents the total taxes needed to be raised by the municipality next year. A resident’s tax rate is determined based on the levy, but with other factors like education rates factored in.
The rate will be set once the budget bylaw has been passed, returned assessment rolls have been received, and the tax ratios have been set by Oxford County – but all of that will come after the budget bylaw passes at a later date.
Although the budget has been passed by council, until its bylaw is passed council may continue to amend it.
Diane Larder took over as CAO late last year and hopes to bring new initiatives, partnerships and perspectives to Zorra Township during her tenure as the top staffer.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent
Early ice on Long Point’s Inner Bay a welcome sight for hard-water anglers
It was a slow morning perch bite off Long Point’s Old Cut on Jan. 13.
Although fortunately, not in every hut.
“Dead sticking,” Dan Yeoman explained, showing off a brightly-coloured jumbo. “Didn’t actually know he was there at first.”
A fan of ice fishing who also spends a winter week on Lake Nipissing’s hard water near North Bay, Yeoman was sharing space with Jason Triemstra. The Woodstock-area residents have their own hut and do use it, but given high winds, driving snow and a daunting wind chill, they made a game time decision to book in with James Carroll of Jimmy Riggin’.
“We could have and we would have,” said Triemstra, “but this is better.”
With strong winds both moving and clouding Lake Erie’s waters, Yeoman was keeping a close eye on his electronics (fish finder). They were using a classic perch ice-fishing tactic, ‘flashing’ with one of two legal rods (jigging a brightly-coloured spoon to attract curious perch) and ‘dead-sticking’ (a stationary minnow on a plain hook under a split shot or small jig) on the other.
“They’re not hungry today, so you have to kind of convince them,” Triemstra explained.
Experienced anglers who understand it’s called ‘fishing’ and not ‘catching’ for a reason, the pair continued to work the water, Triemstra catching and releasing a smaller fish. In between the action, there was a chance to enjoy hanging out, relaxing and hoping the perch ‘turned on’ before Yeoman had to leave in order to meet kids getting home from school.
They hoped to hit Long Point at least once more this season, taking advantage of ice which isn’t always a given.
“It’s an hour from home,” explained Yeoman, who while hoping to catch a predatory pike, also values the benefits of a perch fry. “Salt and pepper and but-
ter, maybe a little lemon on the side,” he said. “They’re fantastic that way.”
Long Point Inner Bay’s frozen surface is a welcome sight not only for anglers but also for the four ice fishing service operations in the area, stuck on the shore in 2024.
“And the year before,” Carroll added. “The huts haven’t moved for two years.”
He (519-586-7990) began transporting huts on Jan. 12, looking to build numbers throughout the week. Over in St. Williams, Woodward’s Ice Fishing Ltd. (519-586-7510) had huts on the ice on Jan. 14; Bayside Ice Fishing (519-5862666) was scheduled to begin Jan. 15, with Collins Harbour Bait and Tackle (519-586-2212) also gearing up for its ‘park and shuttle’ option.
The frozen lake hosts many individual anglers as well, some with their own huts or pop-ups, hardier others going old-school on an upside-down five-gallon pail doubling as a carrier for the
Lots of them and easy to catch… most days at least,” he laughed.
The odd rainbow shows up, and this year, Carroll also saw the first two brown trout he has seen caught on the ice.
Perch are ‘great eating’ says Carroll, who cooks walleye or pickerel in a garlic pasta sauce, however, takes a more traditional batter and deep fry approach for perch, with a side order of fries.
“The healthy way,” he laughed.
Clients come from all over says Carroll, with many urbanites enjoying the chance to get out and enjoy a popular Canadian winter activity.
“A lot of families,” he added, “on the weekend, it’s a lot of families.”
That Friday, the perch had been aggressive said Carroll, tailing off into a finicky Sunday. They were still biting, however only on half minnows, the majority of those on stationary lines.
“If you moved it, they wouldn’t touch it.”
day’s catch.
All options are viable and can be enjoyable, although on this day, with a hefty wind howling outside, the advantages of a heated, insulated hut were underlined by the staccato of snow peppering its exterior.
However one approaches the sport, no one should venture onto any frozen lake without proper knowledge and understanding of changeable ice conditions let alone a kilometre or two onto Long Point Bay across pressure cracks. Wind sweeping across the ice there can cause whiteouts, even on sunny days. Carroll, who carries a compass on his snowmobile because GPS systems can lose signal in a blizzard, was operating on seven inches of ice on Jan. 13.
“But I know there’s not seven inches in other spots.”
People come to Long Point for perch says Carroll.
“Perch and pike, but mostly perch.
He subscribes to the ‘flasher/deadstick’ theory under most conditions, a spoon for the former.
“When it’s tough, a minnow just on a hook, that’s it. Nothing fancy, because if you put all that fancy stuff down, they won’t bite.”
The fishing would pick up later that day, the morning slow, although not without fish on the ice. High winds, changing water and critically says Carroll, a transition from low pressure to high pressure were not the anglers’ friends.
“I don’t know what it (a pressure change) does to them, but they do not like it.”
The change Carroll and others were happiest about however was the transition from Long Point’s open blue waters to the greys, blacks and whites of winter, brutally beautiful in the eyes of ice fishers hoping for a lengthy 2025 season.
“I’d like to go right through until March 15,” Carroll concluded with a smile.
JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent
Tillsonburg Post Editor Jeff Helsdon jigs for perch on Long Point’s Inner Bay.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Dan Yeoman shows off a classic Lake Erie ‘jumbo’ perch.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
James Carroll, ‘Jimmy Riggin’’, is one of four Long Point Inner Bay area ice fishing operators to welcome winter weather to the area.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Route to the Past – Ingersoll Student Saved Thousands Of Lives
SCOTT GILLIES Contributor
The June 27, 1935, issue of “The Ingersoll Tribune” reported that Dr. Clayton George, a former student of the Ingersoll Collegiate Institute, was leaving for England and a career with the British Imperial Army, and what a distinguished career did he lead!
The newspaper reported that Dr. Clayton "Spud” George left last Wednesday night from Montreal, from where he sailed on the DUCHESS OF YORK for England”. Dr. George had joined the Imperial Army Medical Corps and was to be stationed at London for a time.
Born near Crampton, to Herbert and Allie George, Clayton was a twin. His sister Mary Olive would later marry a much older Royal Flying Corps pilot, Robert Walker Jackson. Another brother, Lionel, only lived for 10 years, succumbing to a diabetic coma in 1922.
Clayton George graduated from Ingersoll Collegiate before pursuing a career in medicine at the University of Toronto, and from which, in 1932, he graduated top of his class. Following his graduation, he went to Vancouver for post-graduate work. A year later he returned to Montreal and took a course of highly specialized training in the Royal Victoria Hospital. Perhaps the loss of his kid brother at an early age due to medical conditions spurred on his interest and career. Perhaps he was influenced by his uncle John who was a doctor in To -
The Ingersoll Tribune pointed out in 1935 that Dr. “Spud” George has many friends and relatives in and around Ingersoll who would wish him good fortune. His grandfather and namesake Henry George had immigrated to Canada from Buckinghamshire England at the age of 18 and had lived in Oxford County before becoming a leading importer and breeder of thoroughbred cattle and horses. Upon his retirement from farming, Henry had moved to 206 Oxford Street in Ingersoll.
His grandmother was Mary Prouse, a sister of Oxford County Warden Thomas Prouse Jr. Another of Spud’s uncles was John Prouse who had married into the Newton and Chambers families so young Clay George had grown up hearing about relatives who had willingly served their king and country in times of war. Still other relatives lived elsewhere on Oxford and Canterbury streets, at Salford, Mount Elgin, Crampton and Putnam.
The Tribune reported that
this former Ingersoll student would undergo intensive training at London with the Royal Army Medical Corps.
Prior to his shipping out to England, it appears that he met his future wife, Nursing Sister Elsie Knight while studying at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal.
Following his Army training he was posted to Shanghai, the “Paris of the East”. This commercial centre at the mouth of the Yangtze River was recognized as a centre for the arts, culture and architecture in the 1930s. In March of 1938 Elsie travelled to Shanghai where they were married.
Sometime between 1938 and 1940, he was back in England. With the outbreak of war in 1939, he became part of the British Expeditionary Force in Belgium and France. In May of 1940, when Germany invaded France, our hero was part of the English troops forced to retreat to the French port town of Dunkirk. Tending to the sick and wounded, Clayton along with over 300,000 British and Allied troops, was rescued from the beach during the “Miracle of Dunkirk”.
As Prime Minister Winston Churchill stated, wars are not won with retreats. Captain Clayton George RAMC was sent to North Africa as a medical doctor with XIII Corps of the newly formed Eighth Army under command of General Auchinleck and later General Bernard Law Montgomery.
Clay was posted to field-hospitals across the western desert in North Africa. During the Battle of El Alamein, from October 23rd to November 5,
1942, he was credited with having saved hundreds of lives.
For his gallant and distinguished service, he was in 1943, presented the Military Cross. The citation stated the following: “For a period of 4 months under the most arduous conditions, he has consistently carried out the difficult duty of evacuating casualties from the ever-moving dressing stations in the whole of this Corps. He has had wide fronts and long distances to cover often under enemy fire and under adverse conditions of climate and terrain. Such
confidence has he inspired that it is in a word that “all will be well as George is in charge of the evacuation”. On many occasions he has personally searched out medical units isolated by enemy action, where, by his courage and initiative he has not only successfully brought the wounded to safety but has also assisted medical units to escape. His disregard for personal safety and his devotion to duty has been a fine example and inspiration to all ranks
of his unit who have, under his able leadership, been responsible for the saving of life and suffering of many hundreds of wounded. His action throughout deserves the highest praise.” Signed, Brigadier Edward Phillips, XIII Corps.
It's worthwhile noting that Captain George’s commanding officer was also awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire medal during this same campaign from El Alamein to Tobruk.
Their Corps became part of the 15th Army Group which took part in the invasion of Sicily and Italy alongside fellow Canadians of the 1st Canadian Infantry Division. Operation HUSKY commenced in July of 1943 and after much slogging across the Sicilian countryside was succeeded by even more dangerous missions during the invasion of Italy. Following the end of World War Two, Dr. Clayton Henry came back to Canada. He and his PEI born wife Elsie raised a family of two daughters. He settled in Lucan Ontario and practiced family medicine. He was also the team doctor for the Lucan Irish Six hockey team when it first formed in the 1960s. At that time, he was Medical Officer of Health for the Township of Biddulph and Lucan area.
This notable hero of the Second World War, a graduate of Ingersoll’s high school who had saved the lives of countless thousands of people, passed away at the age of 92. He was buried near his parents and twin sister in St. James Cemetery, Clandeboyne Ontario in 1998.
Route2thepast@gmail.com
Remember that time when Amazon sponsored your church fundraiser?
Remember when Facebook bought a case of Girl Guide cookies to support your daughter?
Remember when Google provided free pizza to your child’s soccer team when they won the championship?
News Media Canada
Médias d’Info Canada
ronto.
(LUCAN LIBRARY PHOTO)
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Why did the man put his money in the freezer?
He wanted cold hard cash.
What do prisoners use to call each other?
Cell phones.
Why don’t skeletons fight each other?
They don’t have the guts.
What do you get from a pampered cow?
Spoiled milk.
How do you make a tissue dance?
Put a little boogey in it.
Where do polar bears vote?
The North Poll.
What did the fireman’s wife get for Christmas?
A ladder in her stocking.
What lies at the bottom of the sea and shivers?
A nervous wreck.
What do you call an American drawing?
Yankee doodle.
SHERMAN
Sherman is a 4 year old Dogue de Bordeaux who is a world traveller. Sherman spends the summers in Canada and the winters in the Bahamas. He loves tennis balls and coconut’s, especially on the beach in the Bahamas where he can chase them.
COMING EVENTS
OXFORD COUNTY BRANCH –
ONTARIO ANCESTORS
JANUARY MEETING
Please join us on Monday, January 13, 2025 for our Annual General Meeting followed by a short presentation given by Liz Buchanan on the use of Glimr, the County of Oxford’s online mapping application found on their website. This meeting will be held on Zoom starting at 7:00 pm. Please visit our website at https://oxford.ogs.on.ca to register for this free event. All are welcome to attend.
WHAT MAKES WINTER SHORTER?
Listening, dancing and enjoying 50’s-70’s country music at the Ingersoll Jamboree, every other Friday afternoon from 1-4 p.m. at the Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St S, Ingersoll. January 10 & 24, February 7 & 21, walk ins welcome at the door.
HOMEMADE FREEZER MEALS
St. Paul’s Church, Ingersoll, has been busy making meals that you can simply pull out of the freezer. We’d love to make life easier for you this winter. For more details, please call our church office at 519-485-3390 or by email: stpauls@execulink.com.
THE OPTIMIST CLUB OF OXFORD COUNTY
The Optimists bring out the best in Youth, Community, and Themselves.
If anyone is interested in coming out to meet us and learn more about us please email brenda7621@outlook.com
PROJECT EMPOWER
WOMENS COMMUNITY GROUP
Every Monday in Woodstock Until Mar 3; 6:30-8:30 pm Pay What You Can
Whether you want to make a friend, find support, or just be a better version of you, join this community! myprojectempower@gmail. com for more info.
REPAIR CAFÉ
4th Saturday of each month; 9:00 a.m.Noon
Hosted by East Oxford 403 Anglican Churches
St. John’s Church, 685860 Oxford Rd. 2, Woodstock
Repairs to clothing, textiles, minor nonelectrical household items, and stringed musical instruments, by donation. Also offered: learn how to make your own repairs.
PEER SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS
Third Wednesday of each month; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
21 Wellington St., Woodstock (Virtual options available)
PCMH is a peer support program providing support to parents and caregivers across Ontario with lived experience raising children and youth with mental health challenges. For more information, please visit family.cmho. org or oxfordcounty@pcmh.ca. We are also on Facebook: Parents for Children's Mental Health ~ Oxford County
LIVING WITH LOSS: A SIX-WEEK GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Caring Hearts Support Network: St. David's United Church, 190 Springbank Ave., Woodstock ON
A safe and supportive space to explore your grief, with the guidance of trained facilitators. Please contact for upcoming dates. No cost to attend. To register or for more information call or text 519-536-3370.
www.caringheartssupportnetwork.com. One-on-one grief support is also available.
GRIEF SUPPORT FOR MAID RELATED LOSS
4th Wednesday of the month from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Thamesford Library, 165 Dundas St., Thamesford
This monthly in-person grief support group for loss related to Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) offers a compassionate, safe space to
explore this unique loss. The group will meet the 4th Wednesday of the month from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Thamesford Library, 165 Dundas St., Thamesford. The group is free of charge and pre-registration is requested. The next meeting is Wednesday, January 22nd. To register or inquire about an evening group, contact Compassionate Grief Support at 519-866-3016 or email faye@compassionategriefsupport.ca.
VON OXFORD JOURNEY THROUGH GRIEF: FREE 6-WEEK GRIEF SUPPORT PROGRAM
WOODSTOCK
Register at: oxford.griefsupport@von.ca or 519-539-1231 Ext 6299 or 6296
UPCOMING SESSIONS:
March 13 - April 17 2025; 6:30-8:00PM
April 10 – May 15 2025; 1:30 – 3:00PM May 14 – June 18 2025; 1:30 – 3:00PM June 5 – July 10 2025; 6:30-8:00PM
VON OXFORD GRIEF CARE: FREE MONTHLY GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP
Register at: oxford.griefsupport@von.ca or 519-539-1231 Ext 6299 or 6296 TILLSONBURG
WHEN: 2nd Tuesday of every month
WHERE: VON Oxford Office 24 Brock St. W., Tillsonburg
TIME: 6:30PM-8:00PM
INGERSOLL
WHEN: 4th Tuesday of every month WHERE: Ingersoll Public Library 130 Oxford St., Ingersoll TIME: 10:30AM –12:00Noon
WOODSTOCK
WHEN: 3rd Saturday of every month WHERE: Sakura House Hospice 715180 Oxford Rd.4, Woodstock
TIME: 10:30AM-12:00Noon
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION EVENTS: 642 Dundas Street, Woodstock
SOUP N SANDWICH
Jan 9th 11:30-12:45pm
DINNER
January 24th 5-6pm
Open faced hot beef sandwich and dessert included. Please call the Legion at 519-5373112 or 537-539-3401 for details.
CADETS Monday nights.
DART LEAGUES
Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday nights.
EXECUTIVE MEETING 7pm, January 7th.
THERE IS NO BRANCH GENERAL MEETING THIS MONTH
MEAT DRAW 3pm, January 11th.
EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
January 4th Mike Thorpe 7-11pm
January 11th Randy Thomas 7-11pm
January 18th 2 for the Road 7-11pm
January 25th Jeff Dawdy 7-11pm
SHUFFLEBOARD every Thursday 1:30pm.
BEACHVILLE LEGION EVENTS: 434852 Zorra Line, Beachville
THAMES VALLEY BLUEGRASS AND OLD TIME COUNTRY JAM January 18, 1-4 pm
Listen or play with us in an Open Mic (acoustic)
KARAOKE January 25, 7-11 pm
EUCHRE Thursdays, 7 pm
DARTS Fridays, 8 pm
PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS WITH US! HERE’S HOW
Deadline: Tuesday prior at 3 p.m. Contact: info@theecho.ca
Coming Events are for non-profit organizations to promote their free admission events at no charge. Event listings can include your event name, date, time and location as well as a phone number, email address or website. If your event is not free admission or you would like to include more details than stated above, you have the following options:
NOTICE OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION CENTRE
Oxford Road 4 and Oxford Road 15 (Parkinson Road) intersection improvements, Woodstock
Municipal Class Environmental Assessment Study
About the project
Oxford County has initiated a harmonized Environmental Assessment (EA) Study for the Oxford Road 4 and Oxford Road 15 (Parkinson Road) intersection to review the intersection configuration, traffic operations, and safety.
The 2024 Transportation Master Plan study recommended the implementation of upgrades and improvements to this intersection to accommodate anticipated traffic growth over the next 25 years.
The purpose of this study is to:
• Identify and evaluate alternatives to improve the Oxford Road 4 and Oxford Road 15 intersection;
• Select a preferred solution and evaluate a preferred design concept;
• Complete and document the Class EA Study in accordance with the Municipal and MTO provincial documents;
• Engage interested parties and the public; and,
• Meet the County’s vision “to provide a safe, efficient and sustainable multi-model transportation network.”
About the process
The project is being completed as a Schedule “C” project in accordance with the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment (2024) and a Group “C” MTO Class Environmental Assessment (2024), approved under the Ontario Environmental Assessment Act.
Upon completion of this study, an Environmental Study Report documenting the process will be submitted to the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and made available for public review for a minimum period of 30 calendar days.
We want to hear from you
Consultation with stakeholders is a key component of the study process and input will be sought throughout the study. A Public Consultation Centre (PCC) is being held to provide an overview of the study, including problems and opportunities to be addressed, existing conditions within the study area, alternative design solutions and evaluation criteria for selecting the preferred design alternative, and the preliminary recommended design solution.
The Public Consultation Centre will be held: Tuesday, February 4, 2025 Drop in: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Oxford County Administration Building - Lobby 21 Reeve Street, Woodstock
To learn more about the project, provide comments and ask questions, or be added to the study mailing list, visit the study website at www.speakup.oxfordcounty.ca/or4-15 or reach out to one of the project contacts below.
All comments received through the course of the study will be considered and documented in the Environmental Study Report as part of the public record.
Project contacts
Harry Goossens, P.Eng. Project Engineer, Oxford County 1-800-755-0394 ext. 3028 hgoossens@oxfordcounty.ca
Martin Van Haren, P.Eng. Project Engineer, R.V. Anderson Associates Limited 519-681-9916 ext. 5047 mvanharen@rvanderson.com
This notice issued on January 8, 2025.
Information collected will be used in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
Oxford County Development Charges
Public meeting pursuant to the Development Charges Act, 1997, to be held February 12, 2025
Oxford County is holding a public meeting pursuant to Section 12 of the Development Charges Act, 1997, as amended, to present and obtain public input on proposed amendments to the County’s development charges (DC) by-law and underlying background study.
County Council employs a hybrid meeting model. The public may attend the meeting in person or participate virtually. Public meetings and Council meetings may be viewed through a live stream feed at www.oxfordcounty.ca/ livestream should you wish to view the meeting but not participate.
If you would like to participate in the public meeting virtually, please contact the Office of the Clerk by February 10, 2025. Staff will provide participation options and details. There is no need to register if you wish to participate in person.
The meeting is to be held:
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 | 9:30 a.m.
Oxford County Council Chamber 21 Reeve Street, Woodstock
In order that sufficient information is made available to the public, copies of the 2025 Development Charges Background Study addendum and proposed Development Charges By-law are available through the County’s website at www.oxfordcounty.ca and on Speak Up, Oxford!: www.speakup.oxfordcounty. ca/development-charges-update
Copies of the Development Charges Background Study addendum and proposed By-law are also available from the County Clerk by calling 519-539-9800 ext. 3017 or 1-800-755-0394. If you require an alternate format or communication support, please contact the Office of the Clerk with at least seven days’ notice prior to the meeting.
How to comment
Any person may attend the public meeting and make written or verbal representations relating to the DC Background Study addendum and proposed By-law. Written submissions are invited and should be directed to the County Clerk prior to February 5, 2025:
Lindsey Mansbridge | Clerk, Oxford County clerksoffice@oxfordcounty.ca 21 Reeve Street, PO Box 1614 Woodstock, ON N4S 7Y3
More information
Written comments received prior to the meeting and submissions made at the public meeting will be considered by Council prior to the enactment of amended development charges by-laws. Technical inquiries should be directed to:
Jennifer Lavallee | Manager of Capital Planning, Oxford County 519-539-9800 ext. 3022 or 1-800-755-0394 jlavallee@oxfordcounty.ca
This notice issued January 15, 2025
Information collected will be used in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. With the exception of personal information, all comments will become part of the public record.
