TVDSB re-elects top two trustees as school board controversy continues
London Trustee Beth Mai and Oxford County Trustee Dave Cripps have both been re-elected as chair and vice-chair, respectively, at the embattled Thames Valley District School Board.
Both elections took place during a special meeting of the board on Tuesday evening as the province continues to keep a close eye on the spending habits of school boards across Ontario.
"I am honoured to serve the board for a second year as chair alongside vice-chair Cripps, with whom I share the leadership role. Looking ahead, I see our shared vision for the next year as one that builds on the current foundation,” said Mai in a board press release issued Wednesday morning.
“As we move forward, I see us advancing our core mission of supporting students in the best way possible and addressing emerging challenges and opportunities with the same determination and leadership we’ve shown so far. And more than anything, I see us standing together as a board, united in our shared commitment, with integrity and purpose,” it added.
Mai is serving her first term as a Trustee for London Wards 7, 8, 9, 10 and 13. She is a resident of London and has been actively involved with the school board for more than 23 years as an employee and volunteer. She was first elected to the position of chair in 2023. Before that, she served as vice-chair.
Oxford County has abandoned a plan to build a new longterm care home in Ingersoll, which would have replaced the current 34-bed facility on the grounds of Alexandra Hospital.
Last January, county council endorsed an application to build a 194-bed long-term care home in the town, adding to the 34 existing beds. Oxford County released a statement Wednesday morning.
“Our plan drew on the strength of our partnerships with Alexandra Hospital Ingersoll and the Town of Ingersoll and was dependent on funding support from the provincial government to build the home,” it read.
It added that nearly twenty months later the county has not
received additional funding support requested from the Ministry of Long-Term Care and, “we have made the difficult decision to move on from this proposal.”
The Echo was able to reach Oxford County CAO Ben Addley during a break from a budget meeting Wednesday. He explained the construction subsidy offered by the province is about $20 per long-term care per bed per day. A top-up of $35 per bed per day encouraged additional development but at the end of the day, a new home just didn’t make financial sense.
“We worked with staff at the Ministry of Long-Term Care whether that would make the project feasible for us with the enhanced subsidy. We found it was not enough to cover our construction costs and there would still be about a $12 million yearly cost for taxpayers if we were to do ahead with it.”
Santa and Mrs. Claus officiated at the lighting of Museum Square while Mayor Jerry Acchione, Roz Carpenter and Michael Lieber, official Town Cryer from sister city Sylvinia, Ohio, looked on. Story on page
He added members of council felt moving forward with the project was not in the best interest of Oxford County but that doesn’t mean a new long-term care home has been sidelined for good.
“Council has made it clear the door is still open. We know the demand in Oxford County for long-term care beds is high. We
have a wait list of about one thousand people for our three homes and we know the demand is going to be there for a long time.”
He added the province has a loft goal of building 30,000 new long-term care beds over the next few years. Addley is hoping to see a more enticing program from Ontario.
“We would like to see them commit more
Woodstock Fairgrounds
funds or reevaluate the value of the construction subsidies to make it more feasible for us to move forward. If they do, I think council would have us right back at the table having discussions again.
There have been many new long-term care homes built recently across the province including a 128-bed home in Tavistock, owned and operated by privately-owned peopleCare. That home replaced an aging, smaller home on the same site. For-profit companies carry any debt themselves, something the county it wary of considering taxpayer dollars are the only option.
“One of the biggest shortfalls is the carrying costs. Like you said, if we have to borrow that money and then pay it back over 25 years, we have to pay interest on that which creates another demand on us on repayment, driving the cost up.”
At the Nov. 13 meeting, Oxford County Council endorsed a proposal to notify the Ministry of Long-Term Care that Oxford would no longer pursue the Ingersoll longterm care bed application. This decision by
council considered the significant municipal tax impact it would have on our residents without additional funding support.
“We know this update is disappointing to many, both inside and outside of Woodingford Lodge. However, this decision now clears a path for us to explore other opportunities for continuing to provide excellent care to residents and support the long-term care needs of our community now and into the future,” the statement added.
“Long-term care is healthcare, and we will continue to advocate to our provincial government to increase funding to deliver this essential service. Municipal taxes alone cannot fund the complex needs of this type of care, which continues to grow in demand and requires greater financial and human resources to operate. We are a willing partner to explore this with our provincial leaders,” explained Addley.
In addition to the 34 beds in Ingersoll, Oxford County operates an additional 34bed home in Tillsonburg and a 160-bed long-term care home in Woodstock.
(OXFORD COUNTY PHOTO)
Oxford students raise $38,805 through United Way Stairclimb
cett, for a contingent ‘punching above its weight’ in terms of volume and enthusiasm.
One thousand, two hundred and six students from all seven Oxford County high schools raised $38,805 in the 20th United Way Oxford (UWO) Stairclimb on Nov. 7 at Woodstock’s Reeves Community Complex, lifting the event’s running total to $471,576.
Those bare numbers are impressive. But to experience the enthusiasm and power that many school-themed clothed, sign-bearing, face-painted and competitively cheering teenagers generate firsthand takes the experience to a whole other level.
“You could just feel the energy everywhere,” said Woodstock CI Red Devils mascot Andrew Meiling, doing his part to fire up the crowd, particularly those wearing red and white. “Awesome,” he added, “you get to dress up, you have fun and give money to charity. What more could you ask for?”
The positive energy built well before competition between designated school representatives and mascots and the namesake stairclimb began, school-based clusters of students good-naturedly cheering and ‘chirping’ representatives from rival institutions.
“I ran the cheers, 100 per cent,” declared Woodstock College Avenue’s Claudia Braun, put together with CASS-themed tiara, shirt, skirt, socks, face paint and sign. She took point along with her elder sister Addison and the latter’s friend Grace Faw-
“And we’re very proud of our shoes,” Addison interjected, indicating an offset pair of navy and gold Converse high tops shared with Fawcett. “We bought them like this for this.”
Three gladitorial competitions gave the broader assembly something to cheer about, a hotly contested mascot crepe paper wrapping, chuck-a-puck and a socalled magical carpet ride, a leg-andthigh-busting tandem slide on a mat up and down the complex ice that looked any but.
Not an easy task confirmed Woodstock St. Mary’s rep Lauren Staples, comparing the pain to crunches.
“But you know what, we’re Warriors,” she smiled, an attitude exemplified in her school capturing the spirit award.
Unofficially, Woodstock CI took the magic carpet ride title, Tillsonburg Glendale the chuck-a-puck and College Avenue the mascot wrap.
The event’s top fundraisers were also recognized, a trio featuring in ascending order, Woodstock CI’s Charlie Dawson, Zoey Shantz and Ingersoll DCI’s Oliver Ball, his perch atop the podium assisted by a $1,000 donation from his mother, Sarah Skinner of Ingersoll Paper Box.
That donation helped fuel IDCI’s ongoing domination of overall fundraising honours, 2018 being the lone exception across the event’s history.
JEFF TRIBE
Echo Contributor
From left, Ingersoll DCI’s Katie Lindsay, Bradley ‘Ace’ Pink and Eli North celebrate the Blue Bombers 19th top school fundraising award in the United Way Oxford Stairclimb’s 20-year history. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Oxford OPP police briefs – five collisions on Oxford County roads
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Zorra Township collision injures three
Police are investigating a two-vehicle collision that sent three people to hospital.
On Nov. 18 at around 9:30 a.m., emergency crews were called to a collision at the intersection of Road 74 and 19th Line in Zorra Township where a transport truck and a vacuum excavator truck collided. The only occupant of the transport truck along with the two people in the excavator suffered minor injuries.
Road 74 was closed for several hours between the 15th and 23rd Lines.
Truck loses control at roundabout
Police are investigating a single-vehicle collision at a roundabout in Zorra Township.
At about 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 18, 2024, emergency crews attended a collision at the Highway 2 and Highway 6 roundabout.
A dump truck left the roadway and collided with what police say were fixed objects. The lone occupant was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
There were intermittent closures at the roundabout throughout the day to allow for the scene to be cleaned up of.
Police investigating a fatal two-vehicle collision in Zorra
A two-vehicle collision resulted in the death of a young Oxford County resident.
Just after 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 10, emergency crews responded to a two-vehicle collision between a flatbed truck and a sedan on Highway 2 in Zorra Township.
The driver of the sedan, a 24-year-old, sustained life-threatening injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The truck driver remained and reported minor injuries.
Highway 2, between the 29th Line and 31st Line, was closed for several hours.
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Single-vehicle collision sends one to hospital
A single-vehicle collision on the 401 in the Township of Blandford-Blenheim resulted in injuries for the driver. At around 11 a.m. on Nov. 8 emergency crews were called to the westbound lanes of Highway 401 near Blandford Road for the report of a collision involving a tractor-trailer.
The lone occupant was taken to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
Ingersoll collision injures pedestrian
Police are investigating a collision in Ingersoll between a passenger vehicle and a pedestrian in Oxford County. On Nov. 10 at approximately 7 p.m., emergency crews were called to a collision on King Street East.
A passenger vehicle and a pedestrian collided resulting in the pedestrian being transported to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.
The lone occupant of the vehicle was uninjured. Roads surrounding the collision were closed for a short time but have since re-opened.
The investigation is ongoing.
LEE GRIFFI
Oxford OPP is investigating a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Road 74 and 19th Line in Zorra Township. Three people were sent to hospital. (OPP PHOTO)
Woodstock Police take more illicit drugs off the street
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
It may not be the biggest bust in the city’s history but the Woodstock Police Service is pleased to see some hard-core drugs off city streets.
On Monday, Nov. 18 the force’s Criminal Intelligence and Drug Enforcement Unit, with the assistance of the WPS Emergency Response Unit, Canine Unit, and Uniform Patrol, a search warrant was executed in the city.
A 42-year-old is in custody, facing charges of three counts of possession of Schedule I substances for the purpose of trafficking and one count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000.
A 32-year-old male is also in custody following the bust on outstanding warrants. During the investigation, police seized a street value of approximately $9,500 worth of suspected fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine and hydromorphone, and $450 in Canadian currency.
Inspector Jamie Taylor said any amount of drugs taken out of circulation is a positive.
“$10,000 worth of drugs will make a difference. We know that when one goes down another one pops up, but our drug intelligence officers are working around the clock. They are sending a message, saying if you’re dealing drugs in Woodstock, we’re coming to get you.”
Taylor pointed to the service’s mission statement, “Dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community. The officers we have working on the drug trade are focused, motivated and they are good at what they do.”
Taylor said as the drug problem in Woodstock has gotten worse, the number of related crimes has followed suit.
“It snowballs. It leads to so many different crimes in our city. Some people can’t afford to buy drugs so they’re out stealing, breaking into cars and also committing acts of violence. They need their drugs. This bust will make a big impact in the city and we aren’t done yet.”
A recent bust in Woodstock confiscated nearly
$150,000 worth of illegal drugs, and although this one may pale in comparison, Taylor said the same charges are involved.
“The charge is still possession for the purpose of trafficking. It’s a solid trafficking case and we are ready for the next one.”
Every police force faces criticism for one reason or another, but Taylor said Woodstock police receive far more positive support than negative.
“Members of the public are standing behind us. We are seeing a lot of likes and shares on our Facebook posts and that’s all our officers need to see. There has been a good shift and a lot of very good, proactive police work going on. I’m happy to be a part of it.”
RETIREE’S BREAKFAST
UNIFOR LOCAL 636
IS HOSTING BREAKFASTS FOR RETIRED WORKERS AND/OR THEIR PARTNER
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
$5.00 Per Person
Retiree’s meeting to follow AGENDA
ROUTINE BUSINESS
Woodstock Police have taken nearly $10,000 of illegal drugs off the street as a result of a recent bust. (WOODSTOCK POLICE PHOTO)
Woodstock Police briefs
last weekend.
Stolen vehicle
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Woodstock Police Service honoured the life of former Chief Joe Moses after he passed away recently.
Moses served on the force for 35 years where he retired holding the role of chief. Current chief, Rod Wilkinson shared his thoughts.
"I have spoken with some previous members of the force who worked with him. What they told me was that he was a kind and compassionate person."
He added members of the Woodstock Police paid their respects at the funeral
Police are looking for a stolen sports car. On Nov. 13 between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., police received a report of a stolen 2017 Red Corvette. The vehicle was following a newer model white Lexus SUV but no plate was observed on security camera footage. Police are requesting the public’s assistance with any video surveillance or dashcam footage that may have captured these two vehicles in the area of Juno Crescent travelling toward the Springbank Ave. North and Lansdowne Ave. area.
LEE GRIFFI
Former Woodstock Police Chief and 35 year veteran of the force, Joe Moses, recently passed away.
(WOODSTOCK POLICE SERVICE PHOTO)
Peters grateful for community support throughout Reel Treats chapter
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
After building a beloved candy and popcorn shop with a variety of movie snack favourites and unique candy, the owner of Reel Treats is looking to find someone new to take over amid an earlier health scare.
A Nov. 9 post from the Reel Treats Facebook page announced that owner Angila Peters would be selling the movie snack shop and event space. Peters had a brain injury in the summer that left her in a coma for a week and in hospital for a month. After still feeling unwell in October, her doctor advised her to live a stress-free life.
Reel Treats will be all stocked up for the holidays. Unless there is new ownership, the business will close its doors on Dec. 31 for Peters and staff to take a break before deciding on the next steps.
Peters told the Echo that since posting the announcement, there are many people interested in being part of the business.
“We are meeting with everyone who is serious about carrying on our business and it makes me feel like there is hope for the brand and its legacy.”
She added if someone were to take over Reel Treats, she wants to see the new owner ensure the different aspects of the business flourish, especially the fundraising. Reel Treats collaborates closely with several schools.
“My heart is especially with the kids who walk in every day,” Peters said. “We have high school students in every
lunch and little kids just make me smile when they see all the candy. Even the grown-ups feel like kids again so I hope the new owner will keep the magic of childhood memories going.”
Reel Treats began during the height of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Peters, who owned the Oxford DriveIn at the time, started a popcorn and movie snack delivery service during the off-season. The popularity, especially for the renowned homemade popcorn, led Reel Treats to its own brick-andmortar space.
“Reel Treats grew from my garage to a 1,500-square-foot store to a 4,000-square-foot kitchen and retail space,” Peters said. “That would not have been possible without Oxford County.”
She added that there’s been overwhelming support from thecommunity since her injury occurred. She still has videos from well-wishing customers to watch while loyal customers and strangers will stop Peters as she’s running errands to check in with her. During her coma, her staff and family felt the sup -
WOODSTOCK
Tim Hortons - 805 Vansit-
tart
Tim Hortons - 942 Dundas
Tim Hortons - 857 Devon-
shire
Tim Hortons - 715106
Oxford Rd 4
Tim Hortons - 566 Norwich
Coffee Culture
Early Bird Coffee - 375
Dundas
Early Bird Coffee - 815
Juliana
Beantown Coffee
Subway - 385 Springbank
Crispy's Fish & Chips
Jack-O's Sports Bar
Reel Treats
Dino's Dining Lounge
Two Guys & A Whisk
Chuck's Roadhouse
Quesada Burritos
McDonald's - 980 Dundas
McDonald's - 499 Norwich
Ave
Norwich Pub
Zehrs
Foodland
Sobeys
Scott's No Frills
Your Farm Market
Shoppers Drug Mart - 333
Dundas
Food Basics
WalMart
Friendly City Tire
Canadian Tire
Woodstock Ford
Woodstock Toyota
Gord Anderson Automotive
Woodstock Anderson KIA
Woodstock Nissan
Woodstock Hyundai
Honda Woodstock
Dubois Mazda
Woodstock Jeep
Pioneer Gas Station
Sunrise Variety
7-Eleven
Daisy Mart
110 Beale Apartments
325 Lakeview Drive Apartments
City Hall
Civic Centre Arena
Woodstock Ag Society
Woodstock Public Library
Oxford County Building
Royal Canadian Legion
Woodstock YMCA
Canada Post - 1074 Parkinson
Reeves Community Complex
South Gate Centre
Fanshawe College
Chartwell Oxford Gardens
Woodingford Lodge
Cedarview Retirement
Woodstock Watershop
Woodstock Home Bldg
Centre
Prime Barbershop
Ocean Spa
Wellington Street Denture
Clinic
Goodwill Community Store
Peavey Mart
Haight's Garden Centre
236 Norwich Ave, Unit 2
Holiday Inn Express
Days Inn by Wyndham
Quality Hotel & Suites
Best Western Plus
Pharmasave - 310 Juliana
Woodstock General Hospital
- 310 Juliana
Pittock Conservation Area
INNERKIP
Innerkip Kommunity Food
port as well.
“Power of good thoughts, prayers and just genuine concern made a life-changing difference for me and my family,” she said. “I will never forget that.”
Peters also said that her staff is like family to her and they held ‘Sweet Support - A Community Gathering for Angila’ on Aug. 31 to show support for Peters as she was in the hospital.
“They were the last people I texted that I was not coming into the store that day because I was not feeling good,” she said. “Our manager had to cut her vacation short, and my staff rallied. They are the best team anyone could ask for.”
Reel Treats is known as a stocking stuffer store and it's well-stocked for the gift-giving season.
“I tried extremely hard this year to get as many different items as I could, and our handmade treats are already flying out of the kitchen,” Peters said. “Plus, we have a gigantic Christmas tree, so if nothing else please come get your pictures done.”
After Peters steps down from Reel Treats, she will continue to advocate for shopping locally and hopes the rest of Oxford County will continue to support local businesses.
“I am one of many small business owners in the downtown. I hope everyone who knows about us will encourage other friends and family to visit on the last Thursday nights of each month for the downtown Woodstock shopping nights, Check us out before Amazon and just really appreciate the hidden gems that we have.”
Pick Up Locations
Market
Innerkip Family Pharmacy
Innerkip Seniors Apartments
Innerkip Wing House
Tim Hortons
BEACHVILLE
Beachville Museum
INGERSOLL
Riverside Minimarket
Canadian Tire
GOJU RYU / Ingersoll Karate
Circle K
First Choice Hair
Shoppers Drug Mart
Island Breeze Laundromat
Louie's Pizza & Pasta
McDonald's
Miss Ingersoll
Subway (174 Culloden Rd
Pita Pit (174 Culloden Rd)
Elm Hurst Inn
Tim Hortons (75 Thames
St S)
Tim Hortons (10 Samnah Crescent)
Evergreen Coffee Lounge
The Olde Bakery Café
Post Office
Cooperators
McFarland Rowlands
Foodland
Tremblett's Independent
Grocer
Salvation Army Thrift Store
Kraft Korner
Hometown Style
Frank's Convenience
King's Variety
Ingersoll Variety
Ingersoll Barber Shop
Benjamin Moore / Rietta's
Décor
Ingersoll Public Library
City Hall
Oxford Manor Retirement
Residence
Ingersoll Creative Arts
Centre
Alexandra Hospital
Ingersoll 50+ Centre
Woodingford Lodge
Gardens of Ingersoll
Home Building Centre
Comfort Inn
Ingersoll Cheese & Ag
Museum
THAMESFORD
Circle K
Thamesford Variety
Thamesford Arena / Hall
Shell Gas Station
Pioneer Gas Station
Thamesford Pizza
Tim Hortons
JC Graphics
EMBRO
Embro Food Market
Kintore Coffee Co.
Highland Restaurant
Embro Hub - Fuel & Coffee
Cambrocourt Manor
Embro Pharmacy
TAVISTOCK
Sam's Independent Grocer
Shell Gas Station
Quehl's
D&D Homestyle Café
Tim Hortons
Renaissance HICKSON
Hickson Post Office
HUNTINGFORD
Esso on Hghway 59
ST. MARYS
St. Marys Independent
(Left to right) Tara Duncan and Angila Peters introducing a wide variety of Reel Treats' goodies to attendees of the Discover Dundas walking tour on Oct. 22. Peters, who also talked about Reel Treats' history and event space, is looking for a new owner to take over the candy and snack shop as she focuses on her health.
(EMILY STEWART PHOTO)
Elm Hurst hosts Kiwanis formal
The Kiwanis Club of Ingersoll hosted a formal charity fund event on Nov. 9 at The Elm Hurst Inn in Ingersoll. The community was drawn together for an elegant evening of class, culture, and charity. The venue, beautifully decorated in festive flair, welcomed 141 guests to enjoy an atmosphere of refinement. The evening began with a lively social hour, where guests sampled a wide selection of cocktails, fine wines, beers, and mocktails. Following the social hour, guests were treated to a careful-
ly crafted three-course meal provided by the skilled chefs at the he Elm Hurst. As the night unfolded, music was provided by DJ Alpha (Dave Galloway) of London. As a longstanding supporter of the Thames Valley Children's Centre, The Fusion Centre, The Easter Seals Camp Woodeden and many youths and children's' programs in Ingersoll, the Kiwanis Club of Ingersoll directed a portion of the evening’s proceeds to support these meaningful causes, adding to the impact of a memorable night.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Oxford students raise $38,805 through United Way Stairclimb
“We don’t talk about it (2018),” IDCI’s Katie Lindsay smiled. “It never happened.”
“We had almost our entire school here,” added Ball, pleased with the level of individual commitment and collective character illustrated. “Puts the community together, the money goes to a good cause and represents IDCI well.”
Following the competitions, students performed the stairclimb, reassembling once again for UWO Executive Director Kelly Gilson to both recognize and quantify their effort and contribution.
“It’s fun and it’s spirit and it’s all the best you can expect in our studentsthey’re amazing.”
Gilson highlighted the event’s educational component, feeling ‘blessed’ to be part of a culture valuing the philanthropic concept of giving back. Each school has its own approach and may add in-school events, but UWO suggests a $20 fund-raising contribution per student as a guideline. Title sponsorship from Meridian Credit Union is
also greatly appreciated.
“This really matters to our students and our schools and of course, it matters to our community because we all benefit,” said Gilson.
Money raised makes a big difference she continued, helping fund programs that support school nutrition, mentoring and literacy.
“There are so many ways United Way funding impacts children of all ages. It gives them the tools and opportunities to thrive.”
Only too soon, comparative silence returned to the complex, replacing the morning’s joyful energy. But long after students filed out to return to their respective schools and classroomsperhaps having washed off a little face paint or matched up their footwearthe impact of their efforts will remain.
As volunteer master of ceremonies Eric Collins had summed up earlier, the over 1,200 participants had displayed both school spirit and excitement.
“But you’re also changing lives here today.”
Previewing the silent auction table were Randy Rosiak, Jane Cole and Karen Costello.
Guests sampled a wide selection of cocktails, fine wines, beers, and mocktails.
Siblings Claudia and Addison Braun and Grace Fawcett were on point for the College Avenue Knights United Way Oxford Stairclimb contingent. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
Ingersoll and Woodstock kick off the Christmas season
The Rotary Club of Ingersoll proudly hosted the 27th Annual Ingersoll Rotary Christmas Parade on Nov. 16, bringing the spirit of the season to the town of Ingersoll and surrounding communities.
This year’s parade,
themed “Walking in a Winter Wonderland,” was a free and joyous event for the entire community. The parade began at the corner of Wilson and Mutual Streets, proceeding through town with spectators lining the streets
to enjoy festive floats, music, and community groups.
Participants from local businesses, schools, and clubs joined the celebration, making the event a memorable showcase of community spirit. Thanks
to the support of generous sponsors, including the Town of Ingersoll, the Ingersoll BIA, and the Ingersoll Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club ensured a delightful and festive experience for all.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
On Nov. 15, the heart of downtown Woodstock came alive with holiday spirit as Museum Square was officially illuminated for the season, marking the start of this year’s festivities.
Mr. and Mrs. Claus made a special entrance at 5:30 p.m., warmly welcomed by an enthusiastic crowd. Moments later, the square was bathed in a festive glow as the holiday lights were switched on, setting a magical atmosphere for the evening. The crowd then enjoyed an electrifying performance by NorthFIRE
Circus. The group’s stunning, high-energy fire acts captivated audiences of all ages, adding a spark of wonder to the evening. Visitors enjoyed an array of festive activities, including photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cups of hot chocolate, and delicious cookies. Guests also met the charming Snowflake Princess, Bella Snow, and the Ice Queen, bringing winter magic to life. The Woodstock Art Gallery hosted a collaborative community art project, while the Woodstock Museum featured a Christmas Scav-
enger Hunt where participants could 'Find the Elf '.
The festivities continued inside the Woodstock Museum’s Educational Room with activities such as writing letters to Santa and a Holiday Escape Room, which challenged guests in a fun, holiday-themed puzzle experience. Downtown Woodstock is officially aglow for the season, ready to welcome the community to celebrate, create memories, and embrace the holiday magic.
The city’s Christmas Parade was held on Saturday, Nov. 16.
Those attending were treated with a wide range of floats with everything from animals and bands to dancers.
Santa and Mrs. Claus made the scene and brought joy to the many in attendance.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Mayor Jerry Acchione welcomed Roz Carpenter and Michael Lieber, official Town Cryer from sister city Sylvania, Ohio.
Attendees enjoyed an electrifying performance by NorthFIRE Circus.
A sample of the beautiful Christmas light displays.
Oxford Reads’ Seventh annual gala brings readers together
EMILY STEWART
Correspondent
After reading the selected novel for the 2024 Oxford Reads program, attendees of the seventh annual Oxford Reads Gala were ready to get their questions about ‘Everyone in this Room Will Someday Be Dead’ answered.
The Market Theatre on 22 Reeve St. was filled with an engaged audience eager to listen to author Emily Austin’s writing process at the Oxford Reads Gala on Nov. 8. The evening began with Austin reading selections from the Oxford Reads book for 2024.
During the Q and A hosted by Sarah Acchione, Austin talked about grieving the loss of her Catholic grandmother while writing the book, her writing process, and approaching death, dying, existentialism, and mental illness in her writing with humour. A book signing followed.
“We had a great turnout from our community,” said Sarah Adam, chair of the Oxford Reads committee. “People loved this book. People loved engaging with this book, and it was such an interesting conversation between Sarah and Emily."
Austin is an author from St. Thomas currently living in Ottawa with a
degree in English Literature and Religious Studies from King’s University College and a master’s degree in library and information sciences from Western University. The author spoke highly of libraries.
"I’m so honoured to be welcomed here by the library. I’m obsessed with libraries, and I think they might be the remedy for all of the horrors of today,” Austin said before a round of applause from the audience.
Oxford Reads is a collaborative initiative by the Oxford County Library and the Woodstock Public Library encouraging Oxford County residents to read the selected book by a Canadian author for the year. Usually, the library staff will pick the book to be voted on by the community, but this year residents had a chance to suggest a book. Austin’s award-winning novel Everyone in This Room Will Someday Be Dead is about a lesbian atheist who ends up working as a church secretary by mistake, and was selected after an overwhelming majority vote.
“Seeing what happened this year and the reception to the title that was recommended by a community member,” Adam said. “This will absolutely be something that we’ll be considering in the future. We'll always want to call in
the community to help us create that list, I think moving forward."
Leading up to the event, the libraries held activities related to the book such as a murder mystery night, paint night, book club meetings, craft night of a cemetery terrarium, and a discussion with a death doula.
The seventh annual Oxford Reads Gala, and other galas before it, had the author in attendance. Adam said that
requirements for the Oxford Reads selection include that the author must be living, and it must be possible for the author to attend the gala.
“It adds such a richness to the conversation after we've spent months reading the same book and having our own internal conversations,” she said. “To be able to hear directly from the author is such a special experience that we get to have."
(Left to right) Author Emily Austin and Oxford Reads Gala host Sarah Acchione discuss the book Everyone in this Room Will Someday be Dead, Austin's other works, and her influences on her debut novel at the Oxford Reads Gala on Nov. 8. (EMILY STEWART PHOTO)
Heart of Oxford version two a huge success
ning.”
She added what it is about is coming together to do one amazing thing.
The second Heart of Oxford Experience was held last weekend at the Woodstock Fairgrounds and all one had to do was look at the lineup of close to two hundred people before the doors opened at 10 a.m.
Organizer Kristen Young, owner of Kynd Beauty Spa in Woodstock, opened her business in June of 2018 and not too long after, the pandemic struck. That’s when she decided to do something online to help struggling businesses.
“I think that’s where Heart of Oxford came in for me. I, like so many businesses in this building right now, were all struggling. We had no idea what was going to happen day to day, and that’s how it was born.”
Heart of Oxford began as an Instagram giveaway during COVID-19 with 70 local businesses participating. I think three rounds later, a Christmas one, there were about 140 businesses involved online and the prize value was $25,000.”
Last year, Young said she had the crazy idea of holding an in-the-flesh event to further promote small, local businesses to area residents. She knew she couldn’t do it on her own, so she sought out help.
“I went to Rachel (Southby) from Oxford Occasions and asked her if we could pull this off. She was the only person I knew who could help me plan it. She said it’s going to be crazy, but we can make it work.”
Young said one of the most heartwarming parts of the show is how much faith participating businesses put in her and the event.
“It’s incredible. These businesses put it all on the line. They bring tonnes of stuff and make these incredible booths. The effort is amazing.”
Woodstock and Oxford County businesses have a long history of supporting each other, even those who are in direct competition. Young explained the teamwork was on centre stage.
“Even on setup day. It was such a beautiful thing to watch because so many people were helping each other. Everyone was taking a break from their booth to help others bring in banners and other things. Heart of Oxford has never been about competition, that is something I made very clear from the very begin -
“Just like how the Instagram giveaway worked, in order to win people had to follow all 140 businesses. Now, with an in-person event, we are not only exchanging Instagram followers but also trading real-life customers, families and friends. We are bringing all of our people into one building. That’s where the magic happens.”
Young said even she had no idea there were so many unique businesses in Oxford County, but she was able to describe it.
“Completely magical. I love it and seeing it all happen and come together.” She added her sponsors also need to be applauded for believing in the event and small business.
“We could not have done this without Oxford Community Futures and our other sponsors. When it came time last year to figure out who we could approach with our first title sponsorship, I thought of them immediately.”
Young explained when she opened her business, OCF was there for her to guide her through the process.
“It was a match made in heaven. What better than a small business support centre to assist with a small business support system.”
One of the event sponsors was Community Futures Oxford (OCF), a government-funded non-profit providing small business services to people living in rural and remote communities. Its executive director, Alan Simm, said the connection was obvious.
“We are very happy and excited to sponsor this event. It is a unique social and shopping occasion here in Oxford County. We see a lot of various, local small businesses under one roof. A lot of self-employed entrepreneurs can sell their products and services to showcase what they can do,” he explained.
He added the organization also sponsored last year’s event and he’s happy to do so in 2024.
“There’s been great attendance as the community embraces this. These entrepreneurs have worked hard. They’ve prepared a lot for this day, their booths are amazing and they have stepped it up. We have
helped and supported a number of them and we are pleased to see the growth in how they are progressing and expanding.”
The B and B Real Estate Team and mortgage brokers Shannon and Marty Wooley were also sponsors of the event.
Last year’s Heart of Oxford had about 1200 people attend but this year’s number came in around the 1400 mark. Young plans to make it an annual event.
“It will probably be the same weekend every year. I think it’s the perfect time as everyone is ready to get fired up for Christmas shopping. Even if people didn’t spend a dollar today, they have an opportunity to plan out their list.”
LEE GRIFFI Editor
Event sponsor Alan Simm and organizer Kristen Young posed for a fun photo. (LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
Mortgage brokers Shannon and Marty Wooley were another event sponsor. (LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
The B and B Realty team was one of the event sponsors.
(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
Ingersoll remembers our fallen veterans on Remembrance Day
On Nov. 11, Ingersoll Legion Branch 119 held its annual ceremony in front of the Cenotaph at Ingersoll Town Hall. Community members gathered at 10:45 a.m. to honor the sacrifices made by veterans. It included the unveiling of a new memorial dedicated to veterans of all races and cultural backgrounds, organized by the Ingersoll Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA). Positioned at the corner of Oxford Street and King Street, the unique memorial was designed as a lasting tribute to the service and sacrifices of veterans.
Created by local artist Deb Campbell in collaboration with co-artist Patricia Marshal-DeSutter, the Legion, and the Veteran’s Crosswalk Committee, the memorial reflects a powerful message of unity and respect. It features the phrase ‘lest we forget’ in English, French, and Indigenous languages. It also includes the Oneida phrase ‘all the people remember, thank you, warriors’ and the Anishinaabemowin phrase, ‘all my relations remember, thank you warriors’ in recognition of Indigenous warriors, workers, and
farmers.
ISAN Director Patricia Marshal-DeSutter consulted Indigenous Language Carriers from Atlohsa Family Services to ensure authenticity. The artistic design prominently features a dove and an eagle, facing the text as if speaking it aloud. The dove symbolizes peace, while the eagle embodies love, courage, and strength, values integral to Indigenous traditions and the memorial’s message. The memorial is framed by the colors of the Four Directions of the Medicine Wheel representing the diverse communities that have served and made sacrifices.
“This memorial is a deeply thoughtful and original creation that reflects the diversity of those who have served and the values of unity and remembrance,” said BIA Coordinator Virginia Armstrong. “We were honored to dedicate this tribute with the community on Remembrance Day.” The BIA expressed gratitude to all who attended, inviting community members to continue to reflect on and remember the contributions of veterans, now and in the future.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Veterans and members of the Armed Forces on took part in the Ingersoll parade.
Patricia Marshall DeSutter and Adam Funnel of The Ingersoll BIA dedicated the new memorial to veterans of all races and cultural backgrounds.
The Cenotaph at Ingersoll Town Hall was decorated with several wreaths.
Oxford County participates in first Purple Bench campaign
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
Purple benches across Oxford County are aiming to raise awareness of intimate partner violence and prevention.
Domestic Abuse Services Oxford (DASO), Ingamo Homes and the Oxford Domestic Abuse Resource Team (DART) will be participating in the Purple Bench Campaign for the first time. It was created as a result of a 2015 public art project in Spryfield, Nova Scotia, and honored Barbara Baillie, a mother of five killed on Oct. 19, 1990. She found comfort in park benches when escaping her husband’s abuse.
The purple benches represent hope and resilience and will feature plaques with emergency contact information for those experiencing intimate partner violence.
"It feels really, really good,” Sophie Foster, DASO fundraising and communications coordinator, said about participating. “It's something that you can actually see. It's a tangible thing that we're putting in our community and I feel like it's, in a way, raising our flag for advocacy about gender-based violence, so I'm excited to start doing the unveilings and
seeing them being put up in all around Oxford County."
Woodstock’s Maglin Site Furniture created eight benches for each mu nicipality in Oxford County - Wood stock, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg, Norwich, Southwest Oxford, Zorra, East Zor ra-Tavistock, and Blanford-Blenheim.|
Oxford Road 59 (Vansittart Ave) bridge in Woodstock
Oxford Road 59 (Vansittart Avenue) bridge and Tecumseh Street in Woodstock will temporarily close to all northbound vehicle and pedestrian traffic on two (2) days in November for Phase 2 deck pours. These are additional closures to the ones already in place.
Road closures are expected to take place the week of November 25 but are subject to change due to weather or other factors. Signs will be posted in advance. During this period:
• Oxford Road 59 from Devonshire Ave. to Tecumseh St. will be closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic in both directions for a period of 12-15 hours on each of the two days. Vehicles should use alternate travel routes: West to Oxford Road 30 (11th Line) East to Oxford Road 4
• Tecumseh St. will be open to local traffic southbound only for a period of 6-9 hours, then it will re-open to local traffic only in both directions after work is completed.
• Access for emergency responders (fire, police and ambulance) will be maintained on Oxford Road 59 northbound with support from police at the intersection of Devonshire and Vansittart Avenues. For more information visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/59bridge
Woodstock Chamber of Commerce names Business Awards of Excellence
The Woodstock Chamber of Commerce hosted its 27th Annual Business Awards of Excellence recently at the Colombo Club in Beachville.
The highly anticipated event, presented by OLG, recognizes and celebrates exceptional businesses and leaders in Woodstock and the surrounding area, as nominated by their peers.
The event spotlighted 24 outstanding nominees across eight award categories, acknowledging their contributions to community, innovation, and professional excellence.
“The Woodstock Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to celebrate our local business community and recognize those who make Woodstock an incredible place to work, live, and grow,” said Mike Crabbe, Gen -
eral Manager. “Congratulations to all nominees and winners on your well-deserved recognition.”
This year’s awards were made possible through the generous support of our Title Sponsor, OLG, Production Sponsor, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada, and President's Award Sponsor, Libro Credit Union, to name a few.
“We have a number of amazing local businesses that have gone above and beyond to continue to support our work. Their sponsorship reflects a strong commitment to championing Woodstock’s thriving business landscape,” added Crabbe.
Here are the winners of this year’s awards:
• Commercial/Retail Award - Bam Bouncers
• Shoppe & Décor Community Engagement Award Winner - VON Oxford
• Agri-Business Award Winner - Streef Pro -
duce Limited
• Manufacturing Award Winner- Baird Machines Inc.
• Food Services Award Winner -Whisk and Roll Bakery
• Woodstock Outstanding New Business Award Winner - Be Well Dog Behaviour and Training
• Professional Services Award Winner - Journey Well Health and Wellness
• Young Entrepreneur/ Young Professional Award Winner - Faithful Beauty
• President's Award Winner - Bob Armstrong, Giant Tiger
The Woodstock Chamber of Commerce extended its heartfelt appreciation to the community for its ongoing support of local businesses.
“Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees and winners. Each of you contributes to Woodstock’s economic vitality and community spirit,” said Crabbe.
Before the vote for chair was held, Mai gave about a four-minute speech and thanked her fellow trustees for having faith in her.
“It is deep in my belief in the capacity of this board to create meaningful change. I appreciate the trust and the opportunity to continue building on our progress together. I’d also like to recognize the valuable partnership I have had with vice-chair Cripps.”
She said they have worked together to ensure the board remains transparent, effective, and responsive to the needs of schools and the community.
“His contributions have been invaluable in fostering teamwork and supporting the board’s progress. I am deeply grateful for his leadership.”
Mai didn’t touch on the controversy surrounding the recent board retreat to a downtown Toronto hotel that cost taxpayers nearly $40,000. The fallout included Mark Fisher, the board's director of education, taking a paid leave of absence. Retired director of education Bill Tucker was named as an interim replacement.
Mai did say her goal of improved communication will carry on.
“We have worked to make sure everyone is informed, that everyone has a voice and is heard, and that we are accessible. The past few months have presented unique and complex challenges but they have also been opportunities to strengthen our leadership and resilience.”
Mai added she is proud of how the board has risen to meet the challenges before them with focus and determination.
“I am confident we can continue to do so,” she added.
Cripps is also serving his first term as a trustee for Oxford County. He is a resident of Ingersoll where he works as a project and change management specialist and entrepreneur. Cripps has over 15 years of experience serving on elementary and secondary school councils as well as local home and school associations.
Cripps, who accepted a nomination to run for chair but was defeated by a single vote, conveyed his concerns re -
garding the affairs of the board before the election was held.
“If this was regular times for our organization, I would share with all of you some of my qualifications. I would share I was looking forward to executing our strategic plan and I would share I am excited to support student achievement and well-being.”
He added these are not regular times for the board.
“I will ask all of you as you vote, think about coming together. Think about the focus that we’ll have to have moving through the next year which will be difficult and most importantly, think about leading with empathy for all the folks we are going to impact with our decision over the next short period of time.”
Among those decisions is a continuing lack of funds to run the board.
The Thames Valley District school board is facing a $6.4-million budget shortfall on top of its $7.6-million deficit. About 600 fewer students enrolled at schools in September than what was projected. The board slashed the 2024-25 budget by $11 million in June through cuts that included 58 elementary and 24 high school teaching positions. 17 early childhood educator jobs and four positions in speech and psychological services were also removed.
Giant Tiger owner, Bob Armstrong, was awarded with the coveted President’s Award from Jason Stanko. He was recognized for his unwavering commitment to local organizations supporting families, children and vulnerable people in the community. (WOODSTOCK CAMERA CLUBPHOTO)
Faith Churchill, owner of Faithful Beauty, took home the Young Entrepreneur/Young Professional Award. (WOODSTOCK CAMERA CLUBPHOTO)
London trustee Beth Mai has been re-elected as chair of the Board of Trustees at the Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB YOUTUBE PHOTO)
Area pipe band holds Scottish cultural event
On Saturday, Nov. 9 the Ingersoll Pipe Band (IBP) at the Armory held their Second Annual Ceilidh. It was a lively celebration of Scottish culture and community.
Fiddle and Frets took center stage, bringing an electrifying performance to kick off the evening, accompanied by the rousing sounds of IPB's very own Pipes and Drums. A special presentation by the Sim School of Highland Dance thrilled the attendees and the event was a resounding success,
drawing a full house with all 100 tickets sold.
Guests enjoyed a cash bar, an exciting silent auction, and a delicious light lunch served throughout the evening. The night was filled with music, energy, and camaraderie and there was plenty of floor space for guests to join in on traditional Scottish country dancing, and many came prepared in their finest dancing shoes, toe-tapping along with the lively tunes.
The youngest members of Sim School of Highland Dance, Eliza and Tenly, showcased their dancing talent.
All attendees had a great time at the Ceilidh and said they are looking forward to next year’s event.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Oxford County participates in first Purple Bench campaign
Since announcing participation in the Purple Bench campaign on Facebook on Oct. 30, there’s been plenty of community support.
“A lot of people have shared our post and commented saying how excited they are it’s coming here,” Foster said. “I think a lot of people didn't know about the campaign, but now that it's here, I think people are really excited to see what we're doing. Again, something tangible that we can see and honour the victims.”
Foster said that the Purple Bench Campaign will bring more awareness and prevention regarding gender-based violence in Oxford County. She said many people are unaware of what
DASO and Ingamo Homes do, and how much of an issue gender-based violence is in Oxford County.
“I think because we're in a more rural community, I think a lot of people think we maybe just don't have the issue anymore or it's just a hidden issue. I'm not sure,” she said. “But the numbers continue to rise, so continuing to put this information out and put the resources out for people to understand that this is something we need to talk about as a community is just kind of a great way to do that and it's a beautiful bench, so it's a nice, pretty way to do it as well."
Over the next month, several benches will be unveiled in Oxford County.
Oxford County will be participating in the purple bench campaign for the first time, to raise awareness on domestic violence and prevention.
(SOPHIE FOSTER PHOTO)
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo SPORTS
‘David’ does not prevail, but IDCI Juniors exit field with heads held high
second, Laidman showed great instincts, coming back to the ball for a 19-yard gain on fourth-and-three from the Rams’ 47.
A sling and stone not being available, Ingersoll District CI (IDCI) junior Blue Bombers backup quarterback Rhys Johnson relied on his right arm and a football. The St. Thomas St. Joe’s Rams - ‘Goliath’ in this case - would not be vanquished on this day, earning a 23-12 Thames Valley Regional Athletics Williamson Division junior championship victory at home on Nov. 8. However, the Grade 9 Johnson and his 5’3”, 117, maybe 118-pound frame fit admirably into the role of ‘David’ as the Bombers capped a fourth-quarter statement drive on the game’s final play. Trailing 23-6 with time running out and starting quarterback Logan Janzen injured in the first half, it would have been easy to simply give up. Instead, the Bombers initiated an extended if interrupted late drive via a Cody Fleming interception. IDCI advanced the ball on a strong run across midfield by Kodie Yulie and first-down passes from converted wide receiver Conner Thompson to Gavin Laidman. On the
“I saw him and threw it,” said Thompson, willing to step up and try and help out the team in whatever role demanded.
St. Joe’s Blake Howes picked off an option pitch attempt, turning the ball over with 2:16 remaining. However, the Bombers ‘D’ stiffened, with Yulie knocking down two pass attempts and Doug Cattrysse contributing a crucial tackle.
“Just saw him running,” said Cattrysse, whose hit forced the Rams to give up possession.
Working with a scant 34.6 seconds, IDCI picked up 12 yards, Laidman elevating to snare a Kace Pelton pass, advancing to the St. Joe’s six with 7.4 seconds remaining on a subsequent unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Under severe pressure, Johnson rolled to his right, recognizing the Rams’ safety heading toward him and Laidman coming clear on a wheel route in the right side of the St. Joe’s endzone.
“I curled with him and he puts a beautiful ball up in open space,” credited the Bombers’ receiver.
In the big picture, one could view the late IDCI touchdown as an irrelevant statistic, a 23-12 rather than 23-6 final. Alternatively, one could view the remarkable play as the culmination of a heavy underdog refusing to simply concede.
“You go until the clock says zero,” Thompson summed up.
St. Joe’s had opened the scoring with Janzen tying the game at six on a two-yard run before being injured. The Rams added an additional touchdown, field goal and extra point to lead 16-6 at halftime.
“Despite the result, I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them,” said Bombers coach Nick DiCiocco, noting his 27-member squad had taken the field against a powerhouse, Tier one calibre squad with 60 players. “I think they expected to steamroll us and we gave them a game.”
DiCiocco remembers his own playing experience in a championship football game and is confident each Blue Bomber will too.
“Now they’ve tasted it, it gives them the motivation to get back here.”
St. Joe’s Senior Rams 46, Woodstock College Avenue Knights 24
The Knights certainly had their moments in the Will Rice TVRA senior championship game, including three Jevaughn Roberts touchdowns as part of a 250-yard rushing performance, and a fourth major on a 13-yard jet sweep by Teshaine Peach. But in a game where College Avenue arguably had to play perfectly, two big moments from the Rams stood out. Firstly, a first-quarter goal-line stand that had the Knights been able to convert, would have
given them an early 6-3 lead. Secondly, after answering Peach’s touchdown with a pass to Gage Lincoln for a 17-6 lead, St. Joe’s successfully executed an onside kick to regain possession with 1:57 to play in the opening half. A pass interference call set up the Rams first-and-goal from the one, converted on a Brayden Sauther pass reception for a 24-6 halftime advantage the home team was essentially able to ride to victory.
“Just not enough,” said Peach, who had a great two-way game including several hits from his defensive secondary position.
“We had to be perfect to beat them,” added Knights’ Charlie Ashman, citing a couple of plays and opportunities his squad was unable to capitalize on. “When you play a team this good you have to, or else they’re going to make you pay.”
Despite the result, Ashman echoed teammate Tykan Zehr’s post-game huddle comments about the ‘brotherhood’ Knights players have enjoyed.
“A great season,” Ashman concluded of a 6-2 campaign including a championship appearance. “The best teammates I would ask for to play all season with.”
Depth had been a challenge for the Knights said coach Ryan Stafford and was expected to be against a powerful and deep Rams squad. However, he felt the game was closer than the score indicated, and was again impressed by Roberts, who Stafford considers one of the province’s premiere running backs.
“He proved it again today,” said the coach. “I’m super proud of all my graduating kids that are done,” he added, “and look forward to continuing with this program and bringing the most out of our kids.”
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
College Avenue Knights Charlie Ashman (left) and teammate Jujaar Randhawa combine for a tackle on St Joe’s Ram Kenyen Aphayvong, with Kole Phelps approaching from the right.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Ingersoll DCI Blue Bomber receiver Gavin Laidman (right) stretches for the ball against defensive coverage from St. Joe’s Ram Demarco Maitland. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Red Devil senior girls expanding their wardrobes at OFSAA A
coach Poole said the defence picked up the offence.
The Woodstock CI (WCI) Red Devils senior girls’ basketball team has earned the opportunity to expand their wardrobes with 2024 Ontario Federation of Schools Athletic Associations (OFSAA) memorabilia.
“All the girls were like ‘We’re getting a (OFSAA) sweater,’” recalled coach Jason Poole following the Red Devils’ dramatic 54-47 overtime Western Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association (WOSSAA) A championship victory over the homecourt Strathroy Holy Cross Nov. 13. “I was like, yeah, you’re getting a sweater and I’m getting a sweater. We’re all getting a sweater.”
As the lone A representative in the TVRA Southeast senior girls division, WCI (7-1 in league play) received direct entry into the WOSSAA A draw. The Red Devils opened with a hardfought 40-35 semi-final win over St. Marys DCVI, despite trailing by nine at one point.
“I think that really woke our girls up,” said Poole, of a reminder not to look ahead to the final. “We’ve got to focus on right now.”
He appreciated an inspirational message from starter Payton Barron, unable to play, but able to tell her teammates that one mistake didn’t decide a game, and to not get down.
“We had to battle in that semi-final, battle and persevere.”
As has been the case for the Red Devils this season,
“They had two girls who would pound the boardswe had to adjust.”
With that adjustment and secondary scoring from WCI’s bench, the Red Devils were able to overcome a significant deficit and advance to the WOSSAA A final. While game planning for either potential opponent, Poole admitted a measure of surprise that Holy Cross beat Mitchell DHS by 13 points (61-48). Holy Cross was led by a 6-foot4 forward who scored 30 of her team’s 47 points in the final.
“I still think we did an okay job isolating her,” said Poole, of a diamond-plus-one zone/person-to-person combination with denial fronting.
The game played out as two gritty, hard-working teams doing battle he continued, with the outcome a measure of who would break first.
Woodstock CI took a threepoint lead into the final minute, however Holy Cross got possession back with 17 seconds left in regulation time. They were frustrated in trying to get the ball inside to their primary threat, but an offensive rebound led to a game-tying threepoint field goal with seven seconds remaining.
“It was like someone popped a balloon,” said Pool of a massive momentum switch and letdown.
Red Devils co-captain Morgan Smith surprised her coach during the brief break before overtime, declaring their opponents looked tired and WCI had to keep pressing.
“She’s very quiet, she never speaks,” said Poole of a message which seemed to resonate through all four minutes of overtime. The Red Devils scored 13 points in the extra period to six for Holy Cross, locking up the WOSSAA A title and its attendant OFSAA A berth. They also avenged a WOSSAA A junior championship loss involving many of the same players two years previously.
“It looked like all the hard work and conditioning and fitness we did pay off,” said Poole. “The girls had four more minutes in them and Holy Cross didn’t.”
The OFSAA A senior girls basketball tournament is being hosted by Woodland Christian High School in Breslau from Nov. 21 until Nov. 23. The draw will be available via the website: https://www.ofsaa.on.ca/ championship/basketball-girls-a/.
Poole looks forward to a fitting conclusion to his seniors’ basketball careers, a hard-working, focused team he anticipates being seeded in the draw’s top half.
“This crew deserves it,” he concluded of an opportunity to compete - and pick up a sweater following a true test at WOSSAA.
“I have never been more proud of a team in my life.”
WOSSAA A Junior Championship
The Woodstock CI juniors made it a Red Devils sweep, proving to be the class of the field with a 4322 final victory over St. Marys DCVI, a game which said coach Eric Molinaro, seemed closer than its score
indicated.
“It was really tight and intense,” he said, respecting the St. Marys players and coaching staff. St. Marys had orchestrated an 11-point comeback in its semi-final and eventual 33-30 overtime win over Ecole Secondaire Monseighneur-Bruyere. “We knew what they were capable of.”
WCI opened its WOSSAA draw with a comparatively comfortable 56-14 semi-final success over Wingham FE Madill, able to roll five-member substitutions and head into the final rested. In that final, the Red Devils opened with fullcourt pressure against tired legs, created a number of turnovers and rebounded well at both ends of the court.
Offensively, Brooke Halward dominated inside during the first half, notching some ‘old school’ threepoint plays, hoop, and the harm (free throw). In the second half, Brooklyn Donais picked up the torch, both finishing with double-digit scoring contributions.
“Kind of a tale of two halves between the two girls,” said coach Molinaro.
The victory also represented a measure of revenge for the WCI junior Red Devils, who were defeated in last year’s WOSSAA A semi-final - in what proved to be the effective final - by St. Marys.
“We kind of used that as motivation,” Molinaro concluded.
TVRA Southeast AA Semi-Finals
Tuesday, Nov. 5
Senior
St. Thomas Parkside 51, Woodstock College Avenue 31 Junior
St. Thomas St. Joe’s Rams 60, Woodstock College Avenue Knights 28
It’s not that Emily Pye has anything against learning about flappers, suffragettes and speakeasies in Mr. Mckenzie’s classroom. It’s just that she happens to love basketball a little more, a fact made apparent by her and fellow Knights teammates’ quick exit toward noon-hour practices.
“We all run from history class.”
The focus will be back on post-WWI Canadian events following a season-end -
ing TVRAA AA semi-final loss to the powerhouse Rams. St. Joe’s took control early and led comfortably at halftime before College Avenue battled back to tighten the final score.
“We all work hard, we try,” said Elora Baker, enjoying not only noon hour but after-school practice as well.
“That’s our biggest thing, we try regardless of if you’re a starter or a bench sitter,” added Pye, already excited to come back and play next year.
Jill Strik led the Knights offensively with 11 points, Julia Baer added six, Baker five, Kaitlyn Vanderspek three, Payton Jones two and Pye one free throw.
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
The Woodstock CI Junior Red Devils celebrate WOSSAA A gold medals earned through a 44-23 championship victory over St. Marys DCVI on Nov. 13 at Strathroy Holy Cross. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
The Woodstock CI Senior Red Devils captured both a WOSSAA A gold medal and a berth to the OFSAA A provincial championship tournament in Breslau from Nov. 21 to 23.
(WCI ATHLETICS PHOTO)
College Avenue’s Myla Reissner (right) heads to the basket past St. Joe’s M. Gillies during TVRAA Southeast AA semi-finals in St. Thomas St. Joe’s. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Red Devil seniors earn WOSSAA A boys’ volleyball silver medals
The Woodstock CI Red Devil seniors left their game on the court against Ecole Secondaire Monseigneur-Bruyere (ESMB) in the Western Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association A championship match on Nov. 13 in Goderich. And while their effort fell short on the scoreboard, it did not in the eyes of their coach.
“The boys gave a solid effort,” summed up coach Colin Maltby. “Super proud of them to play with a team like Bruyere.”
It is Maltby’s understanding that the team features several Ontario Volleyball Association (OVA) players and an OVA coach who begins developing the school’s program at the Grade 8 level. WCI was able to stay with their opponents until around the 15-point mark said Maltby.
“That’s when they just kind of pulled away.”
ESMB took the WOSSAA A gold medal with a three-set sweep, by scores of 2518, 25-16, 25-18.
“Our boys fought hard,” Maltby added. Beyond a credible showing in the final, the Red Devils earned their WOSSAA A silver medals in a five-set, see-saw semi-final win over St. Marys DCVI.
“The five-setter was crazy,” said coach Maltby. “Just a real fight, back and forth, back and forth.”
The Red Devils were not ready for St. Marys’ intensity in the first set, which they took by a comfortable 25-11 margin.
The Red Devils rebounded to take sets two and three 25-19, 25-20, and while they dropped the fourth set, 16-25, they finished up with stronger play said their coach, carrying momentum forward for a 15-7 match-clinching victory.
“We just kind of kept the pedal to the metal and pushed through.”
Naturally, Maltby and company would
have preferred a WOSSAA A gold medal and the accompanying berth to the provincial A championships in Chatham. But all things considered, Maltby was pleased with a good, even great showing and the related WOSSAA A silver medals.
“Pretty proud of the guys,” he summed up.
The Red Devils qualified for WOSSA with a sweep of the Woodstock Ecole Secondaire Notre Dame (ESND) the previous Wednesday at WCI, by scores of 25-3, 25-15, 25-10. The victory met the Red Devils’ primary goal said setter Zack Molinaro.
“To compete at WOSSAA.”
“The end goal of the season and the start goal of the season is a WOSSAA A gold,” added teammate Will Halward.
The ESND Wolves entered the contest with more modest goals admitted William Pinder, namely having fun and improving.
“It was a good season,” he said. “Most of us got to enjoy a game we didn’t get to play together.”
ESND has a Grade 9-12 student body of 92 explained assistant coach Chloe Hallee-Theoret, filling in for Viviane Rouleau. The lack of available players is reflected in the squad’s competitive level, not enjoyment of the game.
“We won a set here and there,” Hallee-Theoret said. “That’s really what we focus on to keep their spirits up and develop teamwork.”
WOSSAA A Junior Boys
A comparatively comfort able WOSSAA
A semi-final win over Exeter South Huron may have been a mixed blessing for the Woodstock CI junior Red Devils.
In one sense, every player saw the court inside the St. Marys DCVI gym through a 25-19, 25-7, 25-16 victory Wednesday, November 13th. However, the match may not have provided the competitive push to hone WCI’s competitive edge for the gold
medal match against London Christian. “We just came out flat in that first set,” said WCI coach Jeff Melanson. After dropping that set 25-14, the Red Devils found their game, only to fall by a 25-23 margin in the second, placing the team in a tough psychological position. “Sometimes it’s like the air coming out of the balloon,” said Melanson, whose squad nevertheless was able to rediscover its game. “We kind of found our footing,” said Melanson of back-to-back 25-20 set victories which squared the match at two apiece, setting the stage for a 15-point sprint to the gold medal.
Trailing 6-2 early, Melanson called time out but was unable to stem the tide of an eventual 15-8 match and gold medal-clinching victory.
“They earned it. Just the shorter run to 15.”
WCI was missing two starters including its captain, one to travel, another to injury, but it was the second set Melanson referred to as one that slipped away, a little like sand through the fingers. In a set that tight, an extra point or two could have made a difference and shifted momentum.
“We were so close,” Melanson added. “Two teams that kind of traded blows.”
The outcome brought understanding to the ‘lose the gold, win the bronze’ theory, underlined by WCI’s five-set bronze medal win over London Christian the year previous.
However, by the time the ink had dried on the scoresheet, perspective had returned to silver medals which felt like a victory.
“It was a good season,” Melanson concluded. “Number two and very close to the top.”
The Red Devils qualified for WOSSAA with a 25-17,25-17, 25-12 win over St. Thomas Arthur Voaden Vikings the week previous, at WCI.
“Just do the best we can and try and win,” summed up Red Devils middle Graedon Smith at the time.
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
The Woodstock CI Red Devils, TVRA Southeast A junior boys’ volleyball champions and WOSSA A silver medalists. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
The TVRA Southeast A champion and WOSSAA A silver medallist Woodstock CI senior Red Devils volleyball team.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
The Woodstock CI Red Devils (foreground) defeated the Ecole Secondaire Catholique Notre-Dame Wolves (far court) in the TVRA Southeast final, Wednesday, Nov. 6 at WCI. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
St. Mary’s Warriors junior boys win WOSSAA AA silver
energy and played flawlessly.
Woodstock St. Mary’s Warriors junior boys volleyball coach Denys Reid understands the theory a team doesn’t win silver, it loses the gold.
But after his squad raised its level of play throughout the post-season, earning its way into the Western Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Association AA championship on the strength of Thames Valley Regional Athletic (TVRA) Southeast tournament final wins over Ingersoll DCI and the previously undefeated St. Thomas St. Joe’s Rams, the coach wasn’t buying it.
“At the end of the day you earned that silver,” Reid said. “Coming second in all of WOSSAA is an accomplishment.”
St. Mary’s punched its WOSSAA AA ticket with a 25-19, 25-15, 25-14 TVRA Southeast semi-final win over the host Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers on Nov. 6.
“One of the best games we’ve played,” said Warriors power Caleb Allard following the match. Although not a happy early riser, he said St. Mary’s showed what it had despite the 9 a.m. start. “Got our serves in, got our hits in and played our best.”
Ingersoll had come out strong in the first set said Reid, but the Warriors were able to match their
“Stepped up and played our best game of the year… so far,” he said at the time.
The junior Blue Bombers were looking to take coach Sharon Docherty to WOSSAA in her final season, the result not at all what they were hoping for said middle blocker Reid Oton.
“Mostly the momentum and then we got quiet, and when we get quiet, we don’t play as well.”
Coach Docherty’s closing message had however focussed on how players she had coached had gone on to be good people, husbands and fathers, said Oton.
“She said no amount of medals could give her that joy.”
St. Mary’s semi-final win both advanced the Warriors into the final and earned a WOSSAA AA berth. Rather than settling however, St. Mary’s handed the Rams their first TVRA Southeast loss of the season by a 25-23, 17-25, 25-17, 25-22 margin.
In both matches said coach Reid, St. Mary’s’ defence, blocks at the net and digs, encouraged its overall game to flourish with the offence catching up.
“When we had openings to get points, we put the ball down on the ground.”
The Warriors used the same unofficial gameplan
at WOSSAA, dropping its first set to St. Joe’s 22-25 before rallying to win in three straight, 25-18, 2521, 25-11.
“They boys really dug down deep,” Reid said. Defensively, St. Mary’s picked up its game, “offensively we were putting the balls away.”
Reid also credited his non-starters for being a positive force, supporting those on-court while being prepared to step up and compete when called into the rotation.
“They were like a seventh man.”
The Warriors faced Oakridge in the WOSSAA AA final, dropping a 25-12, 26-24, 25-17 decision to a strong squad featuring an overpowering individual. Oakridge found a way to get him the ball, whether he was in the front or back row, which was a significant factor in the result.
“There was no quit in our guys,” Reid summed up, “Oakridge just overpowered us.”
In conclusion, he was happy to see WOSSAA AA silver medals hung around the necks of his players - medals they had won through their best volleyball of the season.
“I was so, so proud.”
SENIOR WOSSAA AA
The St. Mary’s seniors also earned WOSSAA silver medals, and like their junior counterparts, entered the draw on the
first match of the WOSSAA AA draw, going back-to-back against Ingersoll DCI by scores of 25-21, 25-18 and 25-19.
St. Mary’s advanced to a tightly contested AA final, opening with a 26-24 win over London Montcalm, before dropping the next three sets by margins of 25-23, 25-19 and 25-22.
With the victory, Montcalm advanced to the OFSAA AA tournament from Nov. 21st to 23 in St. Catharines.
Brouwer for his invitation to the TVRA AllStar game at London St. Thomas Aquinas.
“It was a good season,” the coach summed up, if not without injuries that led to four different lineup changes. As late as quarterfinals, the Blue Bombers lineup was not set, which while providing a short-term challenge, bodes well for the future.
high of a TVRA Southeast title.
The Warriors opened TVRA play Wednesday, November 6th at Ingersoll DCI with a three-game sweep of St. Thomas St. Joe’s Rams, 25-18, 25-20, 25-22.
That victory earned St. Mary’s a WOSSAA berth, they would add the TVRA Southeast championship with a three-set sweep of the homecourt Blue Bombers in the final.
The Warriors maintained momentum through the
The Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers rebounded from their semi-final setback to down Stratford St. Mike’s in the bronze final. IDCI dropped the first set 2518 before reeling off three consecutive victories by comfortable margins of 25-10, 25-12 and 25-19.
“Not what we wanted, but we earned what we got,” summed up Blue Bomber coach Chris Adkins.
IDCI opened the bronze final nervous Adkins said, making errors that detracted from its aggressiveness. The momentum turned on a great defensive dig, the Bombers seeming to feed on that one play, getting out of their early funk, finding the joy in volleyball and rolling from there.
Beyond WOSSAA, Adkins congratulated Zach
“Everyone got lots of meaningful court time,” Adkins concluded.
IDCI qualified for WOSSAA with a TVRA Southeast semi-final win over the Woodstock Huron Park Huskies, 25-21, 25-16, 25-19.
“That was the goal,” said Ingersoll’s Nathan Law at the time. “We want to win the next one, but this is the big game.”
“We still have some work to do,” said Huskies coach Eryn Orr, who was nevertheless extremely pleased with the progress her promising young team made through the 2024 season.
“A lot of development, a lot of improvement.”
That experience will stand Huron Park in good stead next year, believes Huskie Parker McLeod. “I think we’re going to have a good season.”
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
The Woodstock St. Mary’s junior Warriors, winners of the TVRA AA junior boys’ volleyball championship and WOSSAA AA silver medals. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
The Woodstock St. Mary’s junior Warriors defeated the homecourt IDCI Blue Bombers in TVRA semi-final action Wednesday, Nov. 6. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: Museum a labour of love in New Denmark
Let’s be honest, here; you are unlikely to travel to New Brunswick solely for the purpose of visiting the small, quaint New Denmark Memorial Museum. But if you are in New Brunswick – and I can give you dozens of reasons why this wonderful province should be included in your travel plans – you really should schedule a stop at this small-town museum, a labour of love by local folks determined to preserve and honour their legacy.
Our hosts at the museum were Shelley Partanan and Ron Hansen, both volunteers and both descendants of the original Danish settlers who came to this part of New Brunswick in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The newly refurbished museum is a product of the energy and commitment of the local community, a group of people determined to honour their heritage as proud Canadians, but also as proud offspring of some pioneering Danish immigrants.
Partanan told us that the first shipload of Danes to come to the area arrived in Saint John in 1872 and took a smaller boat up the Saint John River to found what is now New Denmark. They were lured to Canada by promises of land ready to be farmed, a road system and places to live. These promises were exaggerations at the least, outright lies at the worst.
That first ship brought 29 Danes to New Brunswick. They were given 100 acres of land each but found they had to clear the land, build the roads and live together in one common building.
They persevered and over the next five decades or so were joined by friends and relatives from Denmark until eventually, the community numbered 119 families.
This history – and subsequent events in the community – are commemorated in the museum. The exhibits include a building a few metres away from the main museum, a small-scale replica of the original communal house shared by the first Danes to arrive. That building was constructed several decades ago by a much younger Hansen, who was just 17 years old at the time the reproduction house was built.
The museum itself reopened in the summer of 2024 after extensive reconstruction of the building and reconfiguration and redesign of the exhibits.
The reconstruction was a challenging project. Partanan notes “every single thing in the building had to be packed up and removed” because they had to remediate mould and asbestos issues. But that also presented the volunteers with an unprecedented opportunity; they cleaned and labelled every artefact before they were returned to the museum.
The museum acknowledges the agricultural heritage of the area; New Denmark was home to dairy farms, a cheese factory and potato farming. Partanan says that in the earliest days, “I have heard stories that they were
planting potatoes among the trees,” for food for the pioneer families. Today, almost all the local agriculture is about potatoes.
There are exhibits about almost every aspect of life in New Denmark. The Women’s Institute – once a vital organization in New Demark, as it was in many smaller Canadian communities – has a section dedicated to its work. So does the school – which is appropriate, since the building that now houses the museum was once the local primary school, which Hansen attended in 1968 for one year. The school was closed in 1969.
It may not be a surprise considering the community’s Scandinavian roots that New Demark was once home to ski-jumping competitions and this and other local sports history is on display in the museum. One baseball team honoured bore the entirely appropriate name, The Spuds.
Hansen’s grandfather was the first postmaster in the community, operating the post office out of his convenience store. His desk, chair and other memorabilia form one small exhibit at the museum.
And there are examples of unique Danish traditions carried on proudly in the newcomers’ new homeland such as brightly coloured Danish dancing costumes.
One of the most moving exhibits in the museum is the wall of photos honouring the men and
women of New Denmark who were in the armed forces during the world wars. I noted that the relatively small community had contributed a surprisingly large number of young people to the war efforts, and Partanan and Hansen said this was a reflection of the love the people of New Denmark had both for their adopted country of Canada and for their original homeland in Europe.
The New Denmark Memorial Museum is a moving tribute to the Danish pioneers who came to New Brunswick to start new lives, and to their descendants who continued that commitment. But it is also a tribute to the residents of today who have devoted so much volunteer time and effort to keep that history alive.
The museum is open to visitors, June through August, staffed by students thanks to government grants, but the local volunteers would be happy to give tours in the off-season to interested people as well. In a true reflection of rural hospitality, Partanan pointed out there is a sign with contact information and, if visitors call, “Somebody will run up.” Admission is by donation.
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.
PAUL KNOWLES Echo Contributor
The Women's Institute exhibit.
New Denmark Memorial Museum volunteers Shelley Partanan and Ron Hansen. (PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Woodstock Choralaires Welcome New Director
The Woodstock Choralaires are delighted to announce the appointment of Lorinda Van Wyk as the choir’s director. She began her tenure in September and her spirited conducting and joy at hearing the members producing beautiful sounds is inspiring to all the Choralaires.
Lorinda is a Canadian choral conductor and educator from South Africa based in Waterloo, Ontario. She was interim director in the spring of 2024 and Choralaire members appreciated her expertise as well as the joy she brought to every rehearsal.
She received a Performance Diploma in Musical Theatre, a Postgraduate Teaching Certificate, an Advanced Diploma in Choral Conducting, and a Bachelor of Music Honours in Choral Conducting while living in South Africa. She has also completed a Master of Arts in Community Music at Wilfrid Laurier University. Presently, she is a student in the Doctor of Musical Arts program at Western University’s Don Wright Faculty of Music, studying choral conducting with Dr. Mark Ramsay.
Lorinda has worked as a classroom teacher (Science, English, Afrikaans, Creative Arts), choral conductor for primary and high schools, and as the piano convenor and vice chairperson for a local Eisteddfod in South Africa. She frequently provides language coaching to choirs performing South African repertoire. She is passionate about choral education for all ages and levels and has a fondness for programming recent, and socially relevant repertoire. The choir is delighted with her appointment. The Choralaires were launched in January of 1966 by Dr. Norman E. Burt-Gerrans. He fostered an enduring esprit de corps that continued with Ron McNutt. Ultimately, City Council proclaimed the choir, “Woodstock’s Ambassadors
of Song”. Doug Shippey, a virtuoso in his own right, continued for over 20 years leading to the enthusiastic celebration of the choir’s 50th Anniversary. Geoff Warder brought his creative spirit to the Woodstock Choralaires from 2016 to 2024. The Choralaires have evolved from humble beginnings to an accomplished semi-professional choir of 65 performers. Its members have sung joyfully throughout North America and Europe through the decadesin churches, cathedrals and market squares, from Ontario Place to Vimy Ridge, Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice, to NATO air force hangars and concert halls throughout central and rural Ontario. The Choralaires under the direction of its new conductor are preparing for the upcoming Christmas Program that will be performed at the Knox Presbyterian Church, in Woodstock. A wide range of Christmas music will make the spirit of the season come to life. Join the Choralaires on Dec. 7 at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are available at Wilson and Markle Jewellers, 489 Dundas Street, or from any member of the Choralaires.
SCOTT BRADFORD Echo Contributor
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
ITOPA’s ‘The Play that goes wRong’ full of hilarious antics
EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent
In the theatre, the cast and crew want nothing more than opening night to run smoothly.
The Play that goes wRong is a production where everything you don’t want to happen on the opening night of your play, such as line mix-ups, props breaking, sets falling apart, and so much more happens.
The Ingersoll Theatre of Performing Arts (ITOPA) will run the comedic Broadway play by Henry Lewis, Henry Shields, and Jonathan Sayer from Nov. 29 to Dec. 8. The Play that goes wRong follows the Cornley Drama Society’s opening night of The Murder at Haversham Manor.
Co-directors Rebecca McNall and Michelle Murphy are having a blast and lots of laughs putting the show together.
"It's amazing,” McNall said. “I've never seen a play like it. It's almost farcical but it's also partly a pantomime, so there's lots of involvement from the audience and the hilarity is just ridiculous."
“I've said this a million times before, but we're in stitches every rehearsal,” Murphy said. “It’s just great.”
“We just have tears streaming from laughter through every rehearsal,” McNall added as Murphy laughed.
McNall wanted to direct The Play that goes wRong after reading the script about three years ago. However, the board of directors said the production needed more than one director to
take it on, so Murphy joined as co-director.
The Play that goes wRong presented several challenges for the cast and crew of the ITOPA production. Some of the crew members said it’s the most difficult play they have worked on so far.
The set builder, Mike, designed it for two years, and the building team is still working on it.
"It's extremely intricate and all the gags require a lot of planning, a lot of work,” Murphy said. “Plus, he had to make multiples of each prop because things fall off the walls and they get wrecked after so many uses, so he had to make multiples of all of the props for the gags."
As there is a lot of slapstick and physical comedy in the play, McNall said that another challenge is making the pratfalls seem unintentional. The production is also a play within a play, so the cast has to make it seem they are experiencing every moment for the first time.
“Every character on the stage is actually playing two characters,” added McNall. “So, we have to keep it distinguished between The Play that goes wRong and The Murder at Haversham Manor. It's a very intricate, difficult play, and we love it."
The Play that goes wRong will have evening performances starting at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 5 and 6, and matinee performances starting at 2 p.m. on Dec. 1, 7, and 8. Tickets can either be bought online by visiting www. itopa.ca/buy-tickets or by calling 519485-3070.
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?
Peter Johnson and Desmond Nanassy face lots of hi-jinks during the opening night of a murder mystery play as part of The Play that goes wRong, presented by Ingersoll Theatre of Performing Arts (ITOPA).
STEWART PHOTO)
(EMILY STEWART PHOTO)
(Left to right): Mark Tindall, Vanessa Page, and Desmond Nanassy face lots of on-stage shenanigans in The Play that goes wRong.
Zorra Township News Council briefs: Residents object to proposed Harrington gravel pit
CONNOR LUCZKA
Echo Correspondent
The Township of Zorra has put in a placeholder objection to a proposed gravel pit in the village of Harrington, an objection that resident Harry Jongerden said was satisfactory.
At the Nov. 6 meeting, Jongerden represented the citizen’s group Protect Harrington and presented a petition and objections some residents have put together on the proposal.
They asked council to join them in objecting to the pit, although as noted in his presentation, a letter of objection was required before the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) concludes its official consultation period on Nov. 8, only two days after the council meeting.
Mayor Marcus Ryan informed the delegation that a placeholder objection had already been filed due to the short turnaround.
“The township will not be able to provide fulsome comments in advance of the Nov. 8, 2024, deadline,” Ryan read from a letter sent by township staff to the MNRF ahead of its deadline. “As such, we are requesting that a placeholder objection be indicated for this file. The township is anticipating having received peer review comments within the next month. Once those are received, we can provide those to you if able.”
“I’m only speaking for myself here,” Jongerden said in response. “But I would say we would be satisfied with that … We've already got two peer reviews. That's costly. It's occupying a lot of time, and fortunately, so many of us are retired, but you can imagine, this has us very upset.”
Ryan said that should the project proceed, it will have to come before council for a zone change, likely in 2025, and there will be further review of the application. He assured that the process is not finished, and the project is certainly not “a done deal.”
“The whole reason this council sits here is because nothing is a done deal, right?” Ryan said. “This council sits here to consider applications that come in front of it and input from the public, and consider how best to proceed with that … So, I would say to any residents about any issue, the whole reason that the five of us sit here with these staff around us is to be advised and try to find the best path forward.”
In his presentation, Jongerden included
a petition with over 60 names attached from Protect Harrington. It noted a number of objections, though Jongerden said in their opinion the three most egregious are that the location of the entrance is proposed to be on Road 96 at the bottom of a hill (which the group calls “hazardous”), no quantity of gravel is given by the applicant for above water table extraction even though that is what the application is proposing, and that the applicant has indicated that no cultural heritage studies exist, even though there were two completed within the last few years.
According to the Environmental Registry of Ontario, 1000394952 Ontario Inc. has applied for a license to operate a pit above the water table in the township. The proposed location is 316829 31st Line.
Initial zoning bylaw amendments a “great direction” to start lengthy review process
Council has started the process to amend its zoning bylaw to conform to Oxford County’s newly amended Official Plan (OP), starting with a presentation highlighting the changes staff have initially identified – all of which related to the township’s agricultural policies.
“I think this is a great direction for us to take at this time,” Coun. Katie Grigg said after Emily Sousa and April Nix, policy planners at the county, presented the review. “This is our process of setting the rules … I've been sitting here for six years. I may not be a farmer, but we've had lots of discussions around preservation of ag lands. We have great intentions with how we're going to implement that, but it really has to come through our county planning services as they have the best information on what those tools could look like for us to achieve what we intend to do here in Zorra.”
Per Sousa and Nix’s presentation, there are a number of zone revisions or creations being contemplated for the amendment.
Revisions for undersized agricultural (A1), undersized agricultural – no development permitted (A1-ND), and agricultural (A2) zones are being proposed, reassessing them to align with minimum lot sizes. A1 zones are less than 16 hectares while A2 zones are larger than 16 hectares.
A1 zones will be assessed to determine which ones contain existing development, Sousa said. Ones that are vacant will be designated A1-ND. According
to Sousa, the suffix essentially acts as a trigger to determine which lots should go through a zone change.
Revisions for the rural residential (RR) zone are being proposed, reassessing and rezoning based on location, whether they are inside or outside of a settlement area.
Finally, there are revisions to existing agri-business zones (AB) being proposed, as many provisions previously included are no longer permitted in the OP.
For starters, it will be limited to existing properties only, with the overall goal being to get existing AB sites into greater conformity with the OP.
“Existing AB sites present potential for locating new agriculture-related uses without the need to consume further agricultural land,” Sousa noted.
Additionally, several new zones are being proposed.
For agricultural zones, there are three new zones to be introduced: agricultural – no new dwelling permitted (A3), onfram diversified use (OFD), and agriculture-related use (AR).
For residential zones, there are two to be introduced: rural cluster (RC) and rural entrepreneurial use (REU).
The A3 zone is meant to address new capabilities allowed in the OP. Surplus farm dwellings are now allowed to be severed from a farm lot with two or more homes built before 1995, where they do not abut. If severed, the A3 zone will make it easier for area municipalities to implement and track the lots and would prohibit new dwellings. Severed lots with the surplus dwelling would be rezoned as RR.
The OFD zone would be permitted only on A2 lots while the AR zone would be permitted on AB, A1, or A2 lots. Staff will work in the coming months to draft potential provisions, Sousa said.
REUs are new to the OP. They consist of home industries and oversized home occupations and will require site-specific zoning.
In addition to the revisions and additions, the amendment will also seek to clarify, update terminology, and develop regulations throughout the bylaw.
The report provided to council also indicates that it will seek to establish clear parameters around renewable energy, something which caught Coun. Paul Mitchell’s eye.
Nix, after Mitchell inquired about the zoning of wind turbines (an issue recently addressed by council), clarified that the intent of the amendment is to make sure that energy storage facilities are not
inadvertently permitted through zoning. The county adopted its OP amendment in 2022, which was subsequently approved by the province in early 2024.
The most recent decision at the township level was to formally update its policies to be in line with the county.
The Nov. 6 presentation marked the first step in amending the bylaw. It was a basis for obtaining initial feedback and will, along with public and agency consultation, inform a draft zoning bylaw amendment, which is being eyed to be formally adopted in the second quarter of 2025.
The township must amend the bylaw to confirm with the OP within three years.
In addition to initiating the amendments presented, council also voted to direct staff to prepare a report on additional land-use tools for protecting prime agricultural land.
Coun. Kevin Stewart, who put forward the motion, said that council has recently heard about the importance of protecting prime agricultural land for residents.
“I'm really encouraged about the potential for allowing more on-farm diversified uses, ag-related businesses and some of the in the rural clusters as well, allowing for more expansion of business,” Stewart said. “I think that's something that Zorra definitely needs.”
“As the only farmer on council and someone whose wife operates a farmbased business,” Mitchell added. “I’m in favour of not only the protection of prime farmland but also the opportunities for farm-based business.”
New faces join council around its horseshoe
Ahead of the Nov. 6 meeting, Ryan acknowledged that there were a few new folks joining council that day.
Kim Grogan, the new director of finance for the township, has been with the municipality for a while, Ryan said, but it was her first meeting sitting at the council table.
Grogan took over from Diane Larder, who changed seats and is now the township’s CAO. Larder took over from longtime boss Don MacLeod, who’s last meeting was in October.
“Very happy to have you here sitting beside me at the council meeting,” Ryan said. “I just wanted to acknowledge those two changes for council, for the community, and for people who are here that those things have happened because they're, I think, important milestones for us moving forward.”
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo
Winter parking restrictions come into effect
Woodstock
It’s that time of year again: winter parking restrictions are now in place in the Township of Zorra.
To assist with snow clearance, no vehicle may park on township roads be -
tween the hours of 1 a.m and 8 a.m., regardless of snow accumulation. Bylaw enforcement will be monitoring for compliance, according to a post on the township’s Facebook page.
The winter restrictions last from Nov. 15 to March 31.
Thamesford Lions Bring Joy with New Specialized Trike for Local Youth
LEE GRIFFI Editor
On Sept. 30, Thamesford Lions were thrilled to present Ben Metcalf with a brand-new, specialized trike, supplied by Motion. This trike, provided in response to a request from Elisa Moss of the Community Services Coordination Network, brings renewed mobility and joy to Ben, who had previously received
2025 Zorra budget deliberations begin
CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent
The first budget meeting of the season kicked off at the Zorra Township council meeting on Nov. 6, but there are more to follow before it is finalized.
That being said, many councillors at the table were pleased with how the process has started.
“I can usually find something to quibble about, but I can’t on this one,” Coun. Paul Mitchell said after CAO Diane Larder and other departmental heads presented the 2025 draft capital budget.
“It's a really good starting point. We’ll add operating to it and find out where the numbers are.”
Currently, the 2025 draft capital budget is sitting at $3,759,136, an increase of $182,603 from the 2024 capital budget.
There is a 5.10 per cent increase to the capital budget’s tax levy and a 1.76 per cent increase to the tax levy overall.
The total transfers to reserves for 2025 is $3,141,541 and, as Larder said, reserves are essentially the basis of the tax levy.
Included in the capital budget is the purchase of two electric trucks, one for the building department and one for the fire chief, both priced at $70,000 and funded from their respective reserves.
Fire services will also install a washing machine at the Thamesford and Uniondale fire halls, priced at $24,000, and implement a fob system for building entries at $11,323.
Development of the multi-use courts in Thamesford ($350,000) and a new playground at the Embro Memorial Park ($100,000) is also included in the capital budget.
A replacement of the hot water tank ($20,000) and water softener ($13,000) at the Embro Community Centre is on tap in this budget, as is an overhaul to the Thamesford Arena’s compressor ($16,000), condensers ($145,000), and parking lot drainage ($35,000).
The completion of an updated security access and control system for the remaining buildings in the township ($36,000), entrance gates and a fence at the Zorra Maintenance Facility ($105,000), and the installation of dash cameras in fleet vehicles ($20,000), as part of the risk management program, will also be completed in 2025 as part of the capital budget.
There are also four road construction projects budgeted for 2025.
Aside from highlights in the capital budget, Larder also explained that the township underwent a study on development charges over the past year, resulting in $1,361,903 being allocated towards principal and interest payments of the Zorra Maintenance Facility (ZMF) for 2024 and 2025.
Per questions from both Mitchell and Coun. Katie Grigg, Larder confirmed that the cash flow from development charges is not known at this point, since the municipality does not know when the houses that provide those charges will be completed.
“We would have to use other resources to fund those projects until the development charges come in as a source of revenue,” Larder said. “So that could be either from our working fund reserve. It could be from a line of credit. My recommendation would be using your working fund reserve, which is your cash flow reserve, and then fund it back in again.”
Later in the presentation, Coun. Kevin Stewart asked if the municipality is putting money away for the next big facilities project, such as the renovation or replacement of the Thamesford District Recreation Centre which had been identified as a potential project in the near future just earlier this year.
Larder answered that they are not currently putting money away for future facilities in this budget, instead towards a master plan which would better inform a council of the day on next steps for certain buildings. After questioning from Mayor Marcus Ryan, Larder confirmed that currently, the township is not putting enough money away to manage all the assets in the township and that the sooner it does the better.
The full capital budget, as it stands, is included in the agenda package of the Nov. 6 meeting. It can be found at https://zorra.civicweb.net/document/47116/2025%20Draft%20Capital%20Budget.pdf?handle=3258CEB5F05C482A82E1EDBAE74C4418.
The full presentation can be found on the township’s YouTube page.
“I'm not sure that I'm not going to have some changes that I might bring forward at a later date, but in terms of the review today and file for information purposes at this point, I think it's a really good start,” explained Mayor Marcus Ryan.
a similar trike from the Lions nearly eight years ago. Spearheaded by Lion Dan and Elisa Moss supported wholeheartedly by our club members. Seeing Ben’s huge smile on his new wheels is the best reward!
The Thamesford Lions are proud to support our community and are grateful to everyone who made this possible. Here’s to more smiles and rides around Thamesford, Ben!
STAFF
Ingersoll Echo
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical opens Nov. 22 right in Thamesford
If you haven't gotten your tickets for Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical yet, don’t worry. Tickets are available at the door but just make sure not to make a habit of it.
Westminster United Church’s annual holiday show is the beloved Nunsense holiday special and Rev. Mark Marshall, who plays Reverend Mother Sister Mary Westminster in the production, said that attendees should expect a professional show that challenges any preconceptions of volunteer theatre.
“We have a talented church,” Marshall told the Echo. “Lots of music, lots of drama, in a good way! And it seemed to be a good fit. We've always, always had a lot of comments from people saying they can't believe it's just volunteer theatre, because we try to make it as professional as we can.”
The show features the first TV special taped by a beloved group of quirky nuns in their convent basement. It is filled with “nunsense,” humour, fan-favourite carols, and a take on Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet, among other feature pieces.
Marshall said that barring a break during the COVID-19 pandemic, the church has been running a holiday show since 2011. In that time, they have produced a number of Nunsense productions, a series of shows written by celebrated playwright Dan Goggin which feature the same cast of nuns.
“I think they should expect to laugh
a lot,” Marshall said about what attendees can expect. “They should expect us to be making fun of ourselves in the church a bit that is certainly a bit irreverent, and we're okay with that, as long as other people are okay with that.”
In the past Marshall said that proceeds from their shows were used to fund the church’s operations or mission trips; however, this year they are hoping to do something different. They intend to start a food security program in Thamesford, given the amount of need in the community.
They are hoping to kick off that program in 2025, barring any setbacks. Organizers are hoping to raise $12,000 with this show, though noted that musicals are typically more expensive to run given the royalties needing to be paid.
He noted that the show can be cheeky, so those faint of heart may want to prepare for some bleeping and blackouts, especially when the puppet Sister Mary Annette takes the stage.
“We’re trying to let people know this doesn’t have to be stuffy,” Marshall said. “When it’s not a worship service, it’s just a good space.”
Five shows are planned. Opening night is Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. On Nov. 23, Nov. 29, and Nov. 30 there are evening shows at that same time, as well as a matinee on Nov. 30.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.onstagedirect.com/buy/event_info.action?showId=2217. Additionally, tickets will be available at the door.
SHOP LOCAL.
Susan Cole’s Sister Mary Paul takes the stage during a dress rehearsal of Westminster United Church’s production of Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical. The musical opens on Nov. 22 and runs Nov. 23, 29, and 30 at the church on 115 George St in Thamesford.
(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)
CONNOR LUCZKA
Echo Correspondent
Route to the Past – Oxford, the county of champion cows
SCOTT GILLIES Contributor
Next time you enjoy a glass of cold milk, take a moment to consider where it came from, especially if you reside here in the Dairy Capital of Canada.
For nearly the first 100 years of settlement, most farmers relied on such breeds as Ayrshires, Durhams and the dual-purpose shorthorns to supply their families with enough milk for their family consumption. It wasn’t until 1883 that Holstein cattle were introduced into Oxford County by Herman Bollert of Cassel.
Remarkably, the Ontario Agricultural Commission published in 1881 by the provincial Ministry of Agriculture, reported that there were no examples of Holstein cattle to be found in Ontario at that time despite their qualifications and reputation as milk producers.
All that changed in a matter of a handful of years, especially as the importance of the cheese industry grew in Oxford County. Between 1883 and 1890, farmers began to show this breed of cattle at some of the local fall fairs. These included Herman Bollert and his brother William, James Rettie of Burgessville, Alfred and George Rice of Curries, and Alfred Hulet of Norwich. Each were building herds of registered cattle, paying close attention to their record of merit or rate of production of milk and butterfat. By 1895 the Rice Brothers set a record for the first cow to produce 572 pounds of milk and 25 pounds of butter in seven days. In
1901 one of their cows took the grand champion award at the Pan American Exhibition in Buffalo and in 1906, another won the grand championship at the first National Dairy Show in Chicago. From that point on, Oxford County farms began winning more than their share of awards at provincial and local shows. As the reputation for our cattle expanded nationwide so too did the local concentration of Holsteins increase to become the largest in Canada and the need for a sales agent was recognized. The first such position in Canada was created in 1926 by Ingersoll’s own Byron Jenvey.
One of the most famous of cows of course is the Springbank Snow Countess from the farm of Thomas Roy Dent in Woodstock. Tom’s father had established his herd in 1908 by buying cattle from George Rice of Curries. In 1933, Countess became the world champion lifetime butterfat producer over all other breeds of cattle with a total of 9,062 pounds of fat (4,119 kg) and 207,000 pounds (94,114 kg) of milk in 10 lactations, a record that was to stand until 1954.
In 1937, the Holstein Association of Canada erected a life-size monument to this cow on the Dent farm. In an effort to promote not only the Association but farming in general, a papier mâché model of the cow was taken to Toronto and put on display in the lobby of the Royal York Hotel!
The Springbank Farm produced other cows and developed bulls which also became top producers and champions in their own right,
including Montvic Rag Apple Sovereign, recognized as one of the greatest sires of all time. One of his descendants would turn out to be another world champion.
Princess Rag Apple Finest was owned by Salford area farmer Ralph Parker. In January of 1960, her calf Princess Breezewood R.A. Patsy set the butterfat record that eclipsed all previous records of age, breed or number of times milked daily. The new championship record was 1,866 pounds of fat from 36,821 pounds of 5.1% milk. The Holstein-Friesian Journal described her record as “well-nigh incredible”. The average cow at the time produced around 7,000 pounds of milk in a year.
Patsy was a big, rugged cow, weighing 1690 pounds on the day her record was announced. Physically, she was described as being broad-muzzled, “wide in the floor of her chest”, with a good quality udder. She also possessed a tremendous appetite which her new owners encouraged. Her mother had been sold by Parker to the Gelbke Brothers of Vienna Ohio in 1953.
Ralph Parker had been born on a farm at Cody’s Corners but had been raised in Ingersoll with the family of James Ferguson on Canterbury Street. Following his years of service with the Royal Canadian Air Force, Ralph was able to purchase a 150-acre farm for $4,000 west of Salford in an area known locally as Tipperary on account of the number of Irish settlers. Friendships with various herdsmen helped him establish his first herd of Holsteins on the
Art on display at Craigowan
The 18th Annual Oxford Creates Artisan Market brought together over 40 local artists, showcasing a diverse array of artwork for sale. This beloved event, held on Nov. 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Nov. 10 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Craigowan Golf and Country Club. If featured everything from paintings and pottery to jewelry, photography, sculpture, books, and more. Admission was free to the public, allowing the community to engage with the vibrant arts scene in the county. Hosted by Oxford Creative Connections Inc., a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Oxford County through arts and culture, the event continued its mission of fostering creativity and community connection.
Beekist Acres Farm which resulted in the breeding of this world champion cow.
Some of that original herd was lost due to tuberculosis and his prize bull died from ingesting a piece of wire in a hay bale, but Parker persevered and continued to farm until 1969. He was awarded a Certificate of Superior Accomplishment by the Canadian Holstein Association in 2010 and passed away on his beloved
farm in 2013.
Through the efforts of farmers like Ralph Parker, Tom Dent, Jim Rettie, Alfred Hulet and James Innes of City View Farm overlooking Woodstock, Oxford County came to be known as “the Holland of America” and “the Dairy Capital of Canada”. So, next time you pour yourself a glass of milk, raise it in a toast to Oxford’s dairy heritage. Route2thepast@gmail.com
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Welcoming attendees at her display was Mary-Anne Murphy, Cultural Coordinator of the Oxford Creative Connections Inc. Hundreds of patrons enjoy a wide variety of art at the event.
ST. PAUL’S CHRISTMAS MARKET
Nov. 30th; 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 56 Thames St. S., Ingersoll
Join us for a festive market to include a Penny Sale (Draw at 12:30 pm), Treasure Chest, Local Craft Vendors, Christmas candy, cookies, frozen fruit pies, frozen soups, casseroles & cabbage rolls. It will be a wonderful day to pick up some favourite treats and gifts and share the festive spirit. We hope you can join us!
THE SALVATION ARMY
DECK THE HALLS CRAFT SALE
November 23 from 9am to 1pm 769 Juliana Drive in Woodstock
Over 700 Christmas Baskets this year for everyone on your shopping list. We will also have Vendors and lots of Baked Goods.
Please RSVP to oxfordgiving@von.ca or 519709-8332 (Chelsea) with any questions or visit vonsakurahouse.com for more details!
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
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; 1 - 2:30 p.m. 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, November 27th. To register or inquire about an evening group, contact Deb McKay at 519-866-3016 or email faye@ compassionategriefsupport.ca.
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.
ARE YOU IN A JAM?
Ingersoll's Country Music Jamboree Club is celebrating 40 years. New members wanted. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Listen, dance, enjoy! Every other Friday afternoon from 1-4p.m. Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St S, Ingersoll. The club welcomes walk-ins at the door.
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
ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION EVENTS: 642 Dundas Street, Woodstock
SATURDAY NIGHT EVENING ENTERTAINMENT
7 - 11 p.m.
November 23rd; Back to Back November 30th; Steve Beach & Larry Fuedo
SHUFFLEBOARD
Every Thursday; 1:30 p.m.
EVERY MONDAY IS CADETS
DART LEAGUE
Every Tuesday 7:30pm, Wednesday 7:15pm, Thursday 7:30pm, Friday 8:00pm.
Christmas Through the Eyes of Joseph [Matthew 1:18-25]
Sunday, Dec 15th @ 10:30am
Christmas Through the Eyes of Herod [Matthew 2:1-18]
Sunday, Dec 22nd @ 10:30am
Christmas Through the Eyes of God [John 1:1-18]
Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec 24th @ 6:30pm Christmas Through the Eyes of Faith
Weekend Quiz
1) What does Ariel give to Ursula in exchange for legs?
2) What do you call an animal that sleeps during the day and is awake at night?
3) Who was the Egyptian pharaoh known for building the Great Sphinx?
4) How long is a millennium?
5) What country has the most oil reserves?
6) How many dice are used in Yahtzee?
7) What year did Blockbuster close?
8) Who won the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson fight? 9) What company is known for their Pumpkin Spice Latte?
What year did the US introduce two-letter state abbreviations?
Stocking drive makes sure transitional housing residents have a Merry Christmas
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
The Oxford County Community Health Centre (OCCHC) is looking to make spirits brighter for 25 residents in transitional housing.
The OCCHC is running a stocking drive until Dec. 10. The organization will be accepting new unwrapped items such as books, toothbrushes, toothpaste, chocolate, water bottles and other items for their transitional homes in Woodstock and Tillsonburg. The stockings will be gifted to 21 adult and four youth residents in transitional housing.
Jade Davies, Tillsonburg case manager and team lead for OCCHC, explained that transitional housing is for those who experienced homelessness and are looking for a place to stay before moving into stabilized housing.
“We like to focus on the fact it's not just mental health and addictions. It's literally anyone who experiences homelessness, just to get rid of that stigma of the program."
The OCCHC opened the Woodstock transitional housing in 2020 followed by the
Tillsonburg location in 2023 with the help of United Way Oxford and a youth centre opened in 2024. In addition to providing stockings for the residents, OCCHC will host tree lighting and decorating.
“With our housing programs, we try to make it feel like home and provide a Christmas dinner, a stocking for everyone to open,” said Davies. “In the past, we were even able to provide pyjamas at one point to everyone in the program.”
So far, a few donations of toiletries such as shampoo have come in, but the OCCHC is looking for more to fill up the stockings. Davies said every year, the residents are thrilled to receive gifts and it’s a heartwarming experience.
“They were just so excited to get a book, to get a water bottle, to get lots of chocolate snacks, things like that,” she said. “So, everyone has been super appreciative and really grateful in the past and we've seen a high participation in all of our Christmas activities that we run in the houses."
Although the stocking drive will run until Dec. 10, Davies said that any donations that come a bit later will be accepted.
"Anytime in December, we would totally
accept them,” she explained. Donation drop-offs can be arranged by
If athletes get athletes foot then what do astronauts get? Missle-toe.
Why was the clock in the cafeteria always slow? Because every lunch it went back four seconds.
What is the hardest thing to hold that even the strongest person in the world has difficulty with? Your breath.
What did the duck say to the waiter? "Put it on my bill".
Where does a 600 pound gorilla sit? Anywhere he wants.
What did the doctor say to the rocket ship? "Time to get your booster shot".
What did the Nerds Candy want to be when it grew up? A Smartie.
What did the bread say to the man? Nothing, bread can't talk.
What did the bee say to the naughty bee? "Bee-hive yourself".
Grey is a bearded dragon rescued from an expo in September 2022. She’s about 3 years old now, she is missing some toes, the end of her tail, and part of her front leg, but it has never slowed her down. She loves carrots, sunshine, and watching anime surprisingly. She is also great at catching flies in the house!
