A total of four recent drug busts have made Woodstock, Oxford County and other southern Ontario streets a bit safer. Arrests were made after a joint investigation with several police forces along with separate investigations by the Oxford OPP and Woodstock City Police.
Joint police investigation leads to seizure of cocaine and methamphetamine worth nearly $300,000
Seven people are facing 18 Criminal Code
and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act charges after police executed search warrants in southwestern Ontario.
The investigation was dubbed ‘Project Napoli’ and included uniformed officers from nine police forces along with six specialized teams from the OPP including organized crime, bike enforcement and the emergency response team.
The Ontario Provincial Police Community Street Crime Units in the West Region, in partnership with the Woodstock Police Service Criminal Intelligence and Drug Unit, began what was dubbed ‘Project NAPOLI’ in August of last year. CONTINUED TO PAGE 7
Woodstock and Oxford County team up to create potential homelessness service
No one knows exactly what it is, but Oxford County may get a homelessness service centre within the next few years.
“Therefore be it resolved that Council receive the letter from the City of Woodstock and that County staff return with a report on how the BFF (Building Fast-
er Fund) funding can be utilized for the development of a Homelessness Service Centre with a focus on transitioning people out of homelessness within the County of Oxford,” was the motion passed unanimously at a recent meeting.
The City of Woodstock was given just under $2 million by the province for exceeding its 2023 home approvals target. The goal was 403 and 475 were approved.
TO PAGE 3
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Confusion and frustration surrounding federal government’s tax vacation plan
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The federal government’s proposal to implement a tax holiday for Canadians has been approved and, in all likelihood, will make it through the Senate in time for mid-December.
Under the changes, the GST, or five per cent, would be fully removed from some goods for two months starting on Dec. 14. It includes items such as children’s clothing, snacks, restaurant meals, wine and beer with an alcohol content of less than seven per cent, and various groceries.
The Echo contacted the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce for comment but general manager Mike Crabbe referred us to the provincial chamber’s statement.
“The Ontario Chamber of Commerce is a strong advocate for policies that support a stronger economy – and good economic policy requires partnership and predictability. While the GST tax relief measure will stimulate demand and bring some financial relief to consumers during the holiday season, it also means added costs, confusion and stress for businesses that must now retool and adjust their systems during the busiest time of the year,” said Daniel Tisch, president and CEO.
“Good public policy usually should not come as a holiday surprise. Affordability measures will be better received – and more impactful – when there is clarity and coordination with the business community and with other orders of government. The Ontario Chamber stands ready to collaborate with all governments to ensure businesses have a predictable policy environment that will spur growth and entrepreneurship,” he added.
Jennifer Peace-Hall, owner of Woodstock’s Finkle Street Tap Grill, said she didn’t believe the news at first.
“One of my staff had mentioned it the day before and I thought to myself, that’s not something the government does, give away kindness like that. At first, I didn’t think it was true, but then I received the
communication.”
Peace-Hall explained she has been given more details from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business and other groups she is a member of on exactly what is exempt and what isn’t. She added the idea seems like a good one on the surface.
“I think it’s a great sentiment for a bit of a reprieve from the struggles everyone is facing right now with inflation but I don’t think it fixes the problem. I am hopeful it will be helpful to consumers over that time and encourage them to shop local and come out to restaurants.”
If a couple enjoys a meal at a restaurant and spends $100 the tax break will mean a savings of $5. The Echo asked PeaceHall if the move by the federal Liberals would help the spending public.
“With everything people are facing right now, I don’t think it’s going to make much of a difference for them. I think it’s a bandage on a big problem, to be honest. I think it’s beneficial for people to spend more money on Christmas but overall, it’s more of a gimmick than a solution.”
She added one of her biggest frustrations is the feeling the government is merely trying to appease the frustrations so many Canadians are feeling. She is also concerned about the aftereffects should $250 cheques go out to millions of Canadians in the spring.
“In my opinion, it’s like stealing. It’s like giving us back a bit of our own money. We saw what happened through COVID with the government printing money and what we are facing now due to that. I don’t think any of these are solutions and I don’t think they are helpful.”
Many small businesses have expressed frustration over the administrative burden the tax holiday will create both when it begins and when it ends. Pearce-Hall said another worry is if mistakes are made on a company’s tax bill.
“We are going to have to update our point-of-sale (POS) system for that short period of time and then update it again after two months so it is going to be a
burden. There is also the fear is there is any (tax) reporting done incorrectly, small businesses after the fact will be audited and penalized for that.”
She said her POS program doesn’t allow for pre-programming so she’ll be up all night on Dec. 13 changing the prices of every menu item needing the tax relief. Pearce-Hall added part of the reason she thought the tax break was a joke was because there was no consultation with her sector before the announcement.
“There were no communications put through. I would say the government
never corresponds with us asking for our opinion or feedback on anything. Policies are implemented and we just have to choke them down.”
Peace-Hall explained the government needs to get to work and come up with a plan that provides meaningful economic benefits to taxpayers and business owners alike.
“Things aren’t working and people aren’t happy. People deserve better and the government isn’t coming up with solutions that are impactful in making changes in people’s lives.”
Finkle Street Bar and Grill owner Jennifer Pearce-Hall is critical of the federal government’s upcoming tax holiday, calling it a bad aid solution to a much bigger problem.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
City provides $2 million from its Building Faster Fund
The cash needs to be spent on projects allowed by the province, such as supporting housing infrastructure, affordable housing or homelessness centres. Time constraints are also attached to the money and the province could claw it back if it isn’t utilized by 2026.
The confusion is this – the city of Woodstock is giving the county the money but the city submitted a plan on how it is spending the money by giving it to the county. Now, the county has been tasked with coming up with a specific plan for what a homelessness centre is.
Oxford County Warden Marcus Ryan said the gift from Woodstock was a very generous, mature and responsible thing to do.
“The best spend of this money for the residents of Woodstock is to give it to the County of Oxford to develop a homelessness service centre.”
Ryan admitted there are many questions to be answered about exactly what that is and exactly where it should be.
“But let’s direct our (county) staff to tell us what their recommendations are.”
He added the largest part of the debate at county council was what
the end result could look like.
“A lot of municipalities have variations on this but the largest chunk of the debate we had was what (is it). You put 10 county councillors in a room and there are 10 different ideas of what it is and what it isn’t. Add in 130,000 Oxford residents and there are more ideas. It’s not a legally defined thing.”
There are many different models of centres across Ontario, something Ryan said is why staff have been asked to come up with a report.
“On what the most effective homelessness service centre looks like. The motion, which passed unanimously, mentions a focus on transitioning people out of homelessness. Councillor (Phil) Schaefer said this can’t be a destination for people so we don’t want this to be a place where homeless people go.”
Ryan explained the goal is to have the centre as a place where homeless people go as they move out of homelessness. He added there is somewhat of a blueprint for staff to work with.
“We are halfway down that path because county council has already given direction to develop a homelessness response strat-
Oxford County Council is using a $2 million gift from the City of Woodstock to plan and construct a homelessness service centre. The city and other parts of the county, including Ingersoll, have struggled with finding solutions to the crisis which has led to Woodstock pumping $200,000 taxpayer dollars into cleaning up abandoned encampment sites.
egy. We have consulted with the agencies that are involved in this area. It is going to inform what an effective homelessness service centre will look like.”
The City of Woodstock had to submit its spending plan for the money by last Friday, which it did. The plan does require approval by the province.
“The existing shelter system, which is overseen by the county, is operated out of three churchbased and shared locations. It has been in place for more than
15 years and has not adapted to the changing needs and necessary accommodations to provide an appropriate first step into housing for individuals experiencing homelessness,” it said. It added “The model introduces a number of barriers that prevent many people experiencing homelessness in our community from accessing their services. As a result, the City of Woodstock, like many communities, has been impacted by a growing number of encampments on city proper-
ties. These encampments have led to a significant increase in negative interactions with neighbourhoods, businesses and local industry.”
Woodstock Mayor and County Councillor Jerry Acchione brought forward to motion to spend the $2 million to combat homelessness. He said the crisis is one of the most significant challenges the county has faced in its history.
“Not a day has gone by over the last two years where I haven’t heard from a resident, councillor, business or one of our community partners struggling to figure things out. I see work being done by our provincial and federal governments but we certainly can not wait.”
He added the Building Faster Fund was designed for municipalities to take swift action to address pressing challenges.
“For us, in my opinion, there was no challenge more urgent than the growing crisis and that is why I made this motion.”
Oxford County staff will bring a report to council although the motion passed did not provide an exact timeline. One challenging part will be to find a suitable location for a homelessness centre.
(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
CONTINUED FROM FRONT
Trump’s not joking about Canada becoming 51st state
Well, that didn’t take long.
Trump is still six weeks from officially being back in office, but already he
is floating the idea of redrawing the North American map.
Fox News reported Monday night that “when Trudeau told President-Elect Trump that new tariffs would kill the Canadian economy, Trump joked to him that if Canada can’t survive without ripping off the U.S. to the tune of $100 billion a year, then maybe Canada should become the 51st state and Trudeau could become its governor”.
Something we should know about Donald Trump by now is that he’ s not known as someone
who “jokes”. Moreso, he’s known as someone who says the quiet part out loud.
Most of all though, he’s known for being an extreme narcissist; one who constantly seeks attention and one who considers himself to be of great importance.
The thing that worries me most about a second Trump presidency is that his first term, in the grand scheme of things, was not that historically “important”. Now that Trump has secured the first goal of his second term (staying out of jail), he can move
on to doing something of equally great importance to him: building a legacy so that his name will be remembered - not just in our century, but for the many centuries that follow.
But how does one be remembered for a thousand years? It’s not easy. Good or bad, you need to do something very significant, very memorable. Many of the names that will long be remembered, such as Alexander the Great, Charlemagne, Genghis Khan, Adolf Hitler… were all empire builders. Redrawing maps is the number one way to
be remembered, unless you are Jesus. I don’t believe for a minute that Donald Trump truly cares about “Making America Great Again” for your everyday person. It’s a memorable and effective catch phrase. I also don’t believe that illegal immigrants coming over the Canadian border is of particularly great danger to the security of the United States. Instead, Trump highlighting this issue, and threatening a 25% tariff, was a means to open a dialogue about Canada. In the coming months, expect right-wing
The Mill hosts Christmas shopping event
On Dec. 1 The Mill Artisan Gift Shoppe and Décor hosted its third annual Christmas Open House, welcoming guests to a festive day filled with unique experiences and holiday cheer.
The event featured a special appearance by the incredibly talented Woodstock Grinch, delighting visitors of all ages with photo opportunities. The open house extended its warm invitation to furry friends as well, making it a pet-friendly celebration. Guests contributed a $10 donation to support the Oxford County Animal Rescue, demonstrating the community's generous spirit during the holiday season.
Attendees enjoyed exceptional sales and auctions presented by local artisans, offering a variety of handcrafted goods and one-of-a-kind treasures. The event was a memorable celebration of the season, bringing together art, community, and holiday joy in the heart of Woodstock.
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo
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Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com
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Lee Griffi • leegriffi@rogers.com
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Stacie Eden • info@theecho.ca
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talk shows, social media bots, and Elon Musk’s X platform to spread misinformation exaggerating about “the problems with the Canadian border” or making the case for “why Canada should join the U.S.”
Canada, with its vast resources, is a very attractive asset for a U.S. president who constantly seeks recognition and notoriety.
There’s Trump Tower, Trump National Golf Club, Trump Coins, even a Trump Bible… does he envision a 51st state, perhaps dubbed Trump North? It’s a terrifying thought.
STEWART GRANT
Publisher
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
The Woodstock Grinch poses with Lisa Alborough and Winnie.
On hand to capture photos of the Woodstock Grinch with friendly attendees’ pets were Lisa and Derek Beeby.
Ingersoll collision results in multiple charges
A single-vehicle collision investigation resulted in charges being laid against two suspects.
On Nov. 29 at about 11:30 p.m., police were dispatched to Culloden Road and an investigation resulted in the confiscation of weapons and other charges.
A 33-year-old resident of London was charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and two counts of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000. A 33-year-old Mississauga resident was charged with two counts of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, possession of a weapon for a dangerous pur-
pose, carrying a concealed weapon and five other weapons offences.
Police say neither suspect was injured and they have been remanded into custody to appear in a Woodstock courtroom at a later date.
Police investigating fatal accident in Oxford
On Nov. 26 just after 6 a.m., police along with Oxford County Fire Services and Oxford County Paramedic Services were called to a collision on Plank Line in the Township of South-West Oxford.
Two passenger vehicles collided and the lone occupant of one of the vehicles, a 59-yearold resident of Scotland, was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver and only occupant of the other vehicle was transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
No word on any potential charges from police.
Drug busts take large quantities of illicit drugs off Woodstock and area streets
On Nov. 21 a total of 10 search warrants were executed in Kitchener, Woodstock and Oxford County by members of Community Street Crime Forces from eight southern Ontario OPP detachments.
A 44-year-old male and a 52-year-old female, both from Woodstock, face charges of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. They have been released and have a court appearance scheduled for January. A 56-year-old male from Norwich Township was charged with breaching conditions and was released but is scheduled to appear in court in January.
The majority of the charges were laid against those from Kitchener and London.
As a result of the search warrants, police seized 1.6 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine, 1.3 kilograms of suspected cocaine, 2,500 alprazolam tablets, $20,000 in Canadian currency, five cell phones and two digital scales. The drugs seized have an estimated street value of $281,000.
“This is a very positive outcome relating to the safety and security of our local communities,” said Oxford OPP media relations constable Randi Crawford.
“We are very proud of the results of this investigation and the excellent teamwork that was required to make this happen. Oxford OPP is honoured to collaborate with our neighbouring municipal police services and the specialty units within our organization to jointly protect the communities we serve.”
Woodstock Police Inspector Jamie Taylor commented on this bust and the ones his force was involved in later in the story.
“These three recent drug investigations represent a major success, highlighting the strength of the partnerships we have established with our neighboring police services. The commitment and hard work of all our members including frontline officers, drug enforcement officers, and crim-
inal investigators, we have made a significant impact on enhancing the safety of our community.”
He added he is incredibly proud of the achievements of his members and happy to report the operations were successful.”
Crawford added police will continue to actively investigate drug-related crimes and asks that anyone having information that can help keep the community safe contact police or Oxford Crime Stoppers.
Woodstock man arrested at city motel
A 43-year-old man has been arrested and charged following an investigation at a motel in the east end of Woodstock.
On Monday, Dec. 2 police executed a search warrant and recovered fentanyl with an estimated street value of $10,500. The accused male was arrested at the scene and taken into custody, where he was photographed and fingerprinted.
Police say during processing, the accused became violent and destroyed police property. He has been charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and a mischief charge was also tacked on. The accused remains in custody pending a bail hearing.
Woodstock and Stratford police team up for bust in the Festival City
The two forces combined efforts to arrest two men in connection with fentanyl trafficking in Stratford. On the afternoon of Nov. 28, police concluded an undercover investigation by arresting two males, one from Stoney Creek and one from Hamilton.
One suspect was charged with one count of trafficking a Schedule I substance and was released. The other faces three counts of trafficking a Schedule I substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking and resisting arrest. He is being held in custody.
Police say they confiscated 189 grams of
fentanyl with a street value of $35,000.
Ingersoll traffic stop results in multiple drug charges
Oxford Provincial Police said it was a traffic stop, but a large amount of firepower was involved in the bust.
On Nov. 27 around 7 p.m., police stopped a vehicle on Culloden Road. With the assistance of Oxford, Brant, Middlesex and Elgin Community Street Crime Units along with the West Region Emergency Response Team, police arrested and charged a 66-year-old resident of South-West Oxford with six offences.
WOODSTOCK
Tim Hortons - 805 Vansittart
Tim Hortons - 942 Dundas
Tim Hortons - 857 Devonshire
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
Basics WalMart
City Tire
Tire Woodstock Ford Woodstock Toyota
Anderson Automotive Woodstock Anderson KIA Woodstock Nissan
Hyundai
Woodstock
Mazda Woodstock Jeep
Gas Station
Variety
Daisy Mart
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 Hospital310 Juliana
Pittock Conservation Area
Those include possession of a Schedule III substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of over 30 grams of dried cannabis in a public place, possession of illicit cannabis and possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling. He also faces one charge of possession of a Schedule I substance and possession for the purpose of distributing.
Police say the combined estimated street value of the seized controlled substances is approximately $51,000.
The accused was remanded into custody and will appear in a Woodstock courtroom at a later date.
Pick Up Locations
Innerkip Kommunity Food Market
Innerkip Family Pharmacy
Innerkip Seniors Apartments
Innerkip Wing House
Tim Hortons
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
Circle K
Hortons
Grocer
Quehl's D&D Homestyle Café
Hortons
A multi-jurisdictional investigation dubbed “Project NAPOLI’ took a large quantity of drugs off the street in Woodstock and other parts of southern Ontario (OPP PHOTO)
OPP and now SIU investigating bizarre situation resulting in suspect being shot by police
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Oxford Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police started an investigation but it has been taken over by the province’s Special Investigations Unit after an officer discharged their weapon.
On Nov. 29 just after 4:30 p.m., OPP officers responded to a report of a person jumping out of a moving vehicle on Oxford Road 6. Police say the person was then put back in the vehicle.
Officers located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop on the 401 in Cambridge. During the interaction, an officer discharged their firearm and as a result, an occupant from the vehicle suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Both occupants were taken to an area hospital for treatment.
The eastbound lanes of Highway 401 were closed for nine hours between Cedar Creek Road in Ayr and Homer Wat-
son Boulevard in Cambridge.
Many stranded motorists took to Twitter to voice their displeasure and there are several reports of vehicles driving the wrong way on ramps to escape the delay.
“Cars driving westbound now on the eastbound shoulder, people walking around almost being struck by these vehicles. Soon there will be more ambulances and police responding to accidents and emergencies in the closure. This is crazy and no updates,” said one angry driver.
Another was concerned about everyone’s safety.
“Seems like a lot of stranded motorists needing assistance. Understandable that there’s an investigation, but with cold, weather and time on highway, the safety of stranded motorists is becoming a factor.”
Oxford OPP media relations constable Randi Crawford did release a statement to the media following the inci-
dent.
“(We) understand that road closures can be stressful for motorists and would like to express gratitude for the patience, gratitude, understanding and cooperation of the public. During investigations such as these, we strive to reopen roads and update the public as soon as practicable, while ensuring a safe the thorough investigation.”
Bill Dickson is the OPP’s media relations coordinator for the organization’s east region and added he understood the frustration of affected motorists.
“The lanes were closed to facilitate an investigation into the incident by both the OPP and the SIU. We did post about the road closure on social media once it was determined that this would be a prolonged situation and posted once the lanes were reopened.”
Due to an officer discharging their firearm, the SIU is automatically called in to take over the investigation.
The SIU released a statement over the
weekend.
“An Ontario Provincial Police officer shot and wounded a 45-year-old man (Friday) on Highway 401. At approximately 5:20 p.m., Oxford OPP officers stopped the driver of a vehicle eastbound on Highway 401 in the area of Homer Watson Boulevard. One officer discharged his firearm and struck the driver of the vehicle. Three investigators and two forensic investigators have been assigned to the case.”
The SIU is urging anyone who may have information about this investigation, including video or photos, to contact the lead investigator at 1-800787-8529 or online at https://siu.on.ca/ en/appeals.php.
The SIU is an independent government agency that investigates the conduct of officials that may have resulted in death, serious injury, sexual assault and/or the discharge of a firearm at a person. All investigations conducted by SIU investigators are civilians.
Ingersoll hosts Deck the Halls Artisan Market
The annual Deck the Halls Artisan Market at the Ingersoll Creative Arts Centre introduced an exciting new feature this year - the Cookie Walk.
Held on Nov. 22 and 23, the event offered patrons the opportunity to select from dozens of varieties of homemade cookies. With containers and pickup tongs provided, visitors enjoyed a simple and festive way to stock up on holiday treats at $8 per dozen. Another standout attraction was the raffle for a stunning quilt generously donated by the Oxford Quilters Guild, comple -
mented by bonus prizes of three original creative works.
Now in its third decade, Deck the Halls Artisan Market continues to showcase over 50 talented artisans. The event featured an extensive array of handmade Christmas and holiday gifts, including pottery, fine art, knitwear, and more, providing hundreds of unique gift options. Organizers noted that a portion of the proceeds from the market would support the Ingersoll Creative Arts Centre, a member-run, notfor-profit organization.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Artists Jim Wilford with one of his quilted handbags and Marie Weigel with one of her vests for sale.
Welcoming attendees were artist Betty Bartram, volunteer member artist Mike Jaycock and fiber artist Pat Palmer.
Innerkip school holds its first Holiday Market
The Innerkip Home and School Association proudly hosted the inaugural Innerkip Holiday Market, a festive celebration that brought the community together for the first time at Innerkip Central School.
This exciting event, held on Nov. 23, successfully combined holiday cheer with a meaningful purpose - enhancing the educational experience for local students. The market featured a vibrant array of vendors, entertainment, and seasonal
activities, creating a joyful atmosphere for attendees of all ages. Proceeds from the event will directly support initiatives aimed at enriching the learning journey of students at Innerkip Central School. The market proved to be a not-to-bemissed event, embodying the spirit of joy and giving that defines the holiday season. The success of this inaugural event has set the stage for what organizers hope will become a beloved annual tradition.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Shopping at the Holiday Market were Tina Sawdon, Charlie Bartolf-Sawdon, Spencer and Mason.
Just some of the many organizers for this festive event were Liz Cairnos, Caitlind Nagy, Abbie Kitchen and Caitlyn Wyatt.
Vendors Crystal Writt of Garden Harvest and Andrea Jones of The Crafty Neighbors had their unique items on display.
Vendor Dave Bosek had his homemade fudge on offer.
Long-standing banquet by Caledonian Society
The Embro Zorra Community Centre came alive on Nov. 30 as the Zorra Caledonian Society hosted the 86th annual St. Andrew’s Night Banquet, coinciding perfectly with St. Andrew’s Day.
The sold-out event celebrated Scottish culture and tradition, with attendees proudly donning their tartans and plaids. Guests were treated to a night of unforgettable entertainment, featuring the stirring sounds of the Ingersoll Pipe Band, the mesmerizing performances of the Sim School of Highland Dance, and the high-energy Celtic rock tunes of Steerage.
Dinner, catered by Janice’s Fine
Country Catering, was a highlight of the evening, with attendees praising the delicious meal and warm hospitality.
For those arriving later in the evening, the $25 concert-only ticket provided a vibrant entry to the festivities, as doors opened for the concert at 9:00 p.m.
The Zorra Caledonian Society expressed their gratitude for the community’s enthusiastic support, ensuring the night truly celebrated heritage and camaraderie. Once again, the St. Andrew’s Night Banquet proved to be a cherished tradition in Embro, and attendees are looking forward to next year’s festivities. (RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Keeping it real at Christmas
Just a few decades ago, cutting and decorating a Christmas tree was a part of Christmas for most families in rural areas of Ontario. The tree brought a magical quality to homes with its pine scent. The real
tree added an extra sense of magic as families gathered to decorate it. Fake trees look real, and may have the same meaning, but lack some of the Christmas spirit associated with the real tree. Fake trees are also gaining in popularity. Outside of the Christmas meaning associated with a real tree, an environmental component is often overlooked – a green thing in more ways than one. With the demand for real trees, there were many more acres of trees in Christmas tree farms. These trees provided nesting spaces for birds, and their dense cover was shelter for a diversity of wildlife during
harsh winters and helped prevent erosion. I have found deer bedding in Christmas trees numerous times. In addition, the dense stand of trees next to a deciduous forest creates an edge effect, which promotes a wider diversity of bird and wildlife species as some species, such as ruffed grouse, depend on edges for prime habitat.
In Ontario, more than 500 Christmas tree farmers produce more than a million trees for the market every year. With a dense planting of trees, Christmas tree farms are an excellent carbon sink, removing carbon dioxide from the air over the eight to 10 years it takes a tree
to reach market size. An acre of Christmas trees can produce enough oxygen for 18 people. Christmas trees also filter pollutants out of the air. Cutting your tree is a great family outing and a chance to get outdoors. My family always looked forward to the annual adventure of traveling to the country to cut a tree for the living room. For those less connected to the outdoors, a trip to a Christmas tree farm can be an educational experience beyond buying a tree from an in-town retailer. Some people may think cutting a tree is bad for the environment. The opposite is true, as there are always more trees in var-
ious growing stages for future years, and the demand for trees fuels this environmentally friendly crop.
But what do we do with the tree after the seasonal magic has wound down? In Tillsonburg, trees can be dropped off at the transfer station. These will be ground into mulch. Another alternative is to turn the tree back to nature. It can be a great activity for a family or youth group to collect several trees and make brush piles in woodlots. These provide small mammals and birds a place to seek shelter from predators and weather out storms. Of course, permission is needed from
the landowner before dropping off trees. Using a real Christmas tree supports a local farmer who puts money back in the community. Real trees are also a way of buying local. A lifetime of trips to a farm a few kilometers away would expend less fuel than shipping an artificial tree from halfway around the world. Include a real tree in your seasonal plans for the year, it’s the environmentally-friendly, family-friendly choice.
Jeff Helsdon is an award-winning outdoor writer, a columnist for Ontario Out of Doors and writes for several other outdoor publications.
Members present from the Zorra Caledonian Society were Scott Thomson (Treasurer), Steve MacDonald (Vice President), Helen Dowd (Secretary), Geoff Innes (President) and Holly MacDonald (Media Liaison).
Celebrating the evening were Kenneth and Darlene Ulch, Angus Thomson and Pam Durham. Presentation of the Haggis.
JEFF HELSDON Echo Contributor
Countdown to Christmas in Woodstock
The highly anticipated 10th Annual Countdown to Christmas Bazaar took place on Nov. 30 at the Oxford Auditorium, marking a decade of festive shopping and community spirit.
The event welcomed an impressive lineup of over 120 vendors, offering something special for everyone on holiday shopping lists. From handcrafted goods to unique gifts, the bazaar provided a lively and spacious environment for vendors and visitors to enjoy.
Attendees gained entry with a $2 ad -
mission fee or a donation to the local food bank, combining the joy of shopping with a spirit of giving. A popular event feature included a chance to win "Bazaar Dollars" by marking themselves as going on the event page or through additional draws held during in-person shopping. The Countdown to Christmas Bazaar continues to grow as a beloved tradition in Woodstock, bringing together the community to celebrate the holiday season.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Sherrie Thompson of Domestic Attitude Wool Socks makes a sock on a Word War I-era hand-cranked machine. These machines were distributed by The Red Cross to volunteers across Canada who made wool socks for the soldiers overseas. It takes about 2 hours to make one pair. Later versions were motorized.
Much to see on the festive displays.
Jackie Smith and Cheryl Dimmell of Just Monkeying Around display some of their cute creations.
Amanda Purdy, Addison Royles and Angela Wotherspoon of Angelic Craft and Design and Gnome Buddies Business had plenty of gift ideas on display.
Ingersoll church holds fundraiser for refugee family
St. Paul’s Church in Ingersoll recently hosted a remarkable evening of storytelling and music as a fundraiser in support of a Syrian refugee family sponsored by the congregation on Nov. 23. The event featured a captivating performance of “J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow”, an extraordinary narrative brought to life by celebrated CBC personality Tom Allen and a talented ensemble of musicians.
The performance chronicled the early life of Johann Sebastian Bach, shedding light on the challenges and adventures of the 18-year-old composer during a pivotal 400-kilometer journey. Through a blend of riveting storytelling and glorious music, Tom Allen, joined by a cast
of skilled performers, vividly portrayed Bach’s struggles and triumphs—highlighting his youthful missteps, personal growth, and search for inspiration.
The event gave the audience an intimate glimpse into the humanity behind the legendary composer while raising essential funds for the refugee family.
Attendees were moved by the powerful combination of history, music, and community spirit, making the evening an unforgettable experience for all. The success of “J.S. Bach’s Long Walk in the Snow” underscores the church’s ongoing commitment to supporting those in need and fostering community through culture and compassion.
(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)
Theatre Woodstock presents A Snow White Christmas
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
Just in time for the holidays, Theatre Woodstock will bring a winter fairy tale to the stage by presenting A Snow
White Christmas by Norm
by Jeff
produced by Kim DiLello, and featuring a Blacklight youth team directed by Joanna Sweete, it examines what happened after the supposed happily ever after.
Foster. Directed
Sweete,
The Music Ensemble for the evening was Ken Fox, Patricia O'Callaghan, Michael Bride, organizer Rae-Lynn Rosefield, Tom Allen and Rebekah Wolkstein.
Early arrivals for the concert.
Top row, left to right: Joanna Sweete, Alex Woodward-Herborth, Joanna Kennedy, Middle row, left: David Butcher, Middle row, right: Aaron Gorlick, Bottom row, left to right: Dana Fobert, Jeff Sweete (Director), Grace Kennedy. (JOANNA KENNEDY/GRACE KENNEDY PHOTOS)
Sarah Hodgkinson, marketing and communications coordinator at Theatre Woodstock, is looking forward to the production coming to the stage.
"It is magical. It has Blacklight magical scenes where things are floating. I don't want to reveal what's floating exactly, but it's so cool to see that on our stage.”
She added that the comedy is a Christmas present for young and old.
“It is not your grandmother's Snow White like in the 1940s, the everything's going great in her life Snow White, although she does die for a while there,” Hodgkinson said. “This is the Snow White who is now divorced. She is bitter. She is working in a candy shop doing her best to make ends meet. That is the Snow White that we get to know."
Kristin Klein worked on plenty of costumes for the performance. Earlier this year, she won the Western Ontario Drama League Award of Merit for Behind the Scenes with her daughter Jocelynne Klein for their dresses in the February production of Cinderella.
“I’m excited for people to see those,” Hodgkinson said.
The performance is the second Oxford County community theatre production on the Foster Four Tour. All of the community theatres in Oxford County are presenting a production by beloved
Foster during their 2024/25 season, and each show part of the tour will give attendees a chance to enter a draw to win a pair of tickets to the Norm Foster Festival in the summer of 2025. Embro’s Thistle Theatre kicked off the Foster Four with The Ladies Foursome in the fall.
In 2025, Theatre Tillsonburg will present Opening Night in February and Ingersoll Theatre of Performing Arts (ITOPA) will bring The Long Weekend to the stage in June. Hodgkinson said that she spoke with someone part of ITOPA, who said the second bestselling show of the 2024/2025 season is The Long Weekend, a production six months away.
"They are already seeing at ITOPA, which is the final Foster show. They're already seeing postal codes they've never seen before because Norm Foster fans will travel to see his plays."
A Snow White Christmas runs from Dec. 5 to 15. All shows on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays will start at 7:30 p.m. with the two Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $28 each for adults, $20 for students, $18 for youth 12-and-under and $20 on Thrifty Thursdays. To purchase tickets, either visit the box office on 22 Reeve Street, call 519-537-2582 or visit www.theatrewoodstock.com.
BRICK PONDS ENCAMPMENT FIRE
and
responded to a fire close to the Brick
area. “What I can tell you is there was a fire near an encampment,” said police inspector Jamie
“There was a lot of garbage that was on fire. Fire officials are going back there today to investigate in the daylight. We sent our drone up and officers did not observe any people present.” The Echo reached out to the Woodstock Fire Department for more details but did not hear back by press time
Woodstock Police
Woodstock Fire Department
Ponds Wetlands
Taylor.
(WOODSTOCK POLICE SERVICE PHOTO)
Be mindful of pets during the holiday season
The magic and wonder of the holiday season can be enthralling for people of all ages. There is so much to see and do during the holiday season, making it easy to forge lasting memories. With so much to do in December, life at home can sometimes feel a little hectic, especially for the family pet. Although the holidays can be exciting, the season can induce anxiety in pets. Pets like cats and dogs often thrive on routine and familiarity. Switch up that routine and various behavioral issues can arise, including having accidents in the home. Pets also may become more destructive, chewing or clawing at items to release pent-up tension and anxiety. Pet owners who want the season to be festive for their pets can consider the following strategies. Gradually introduce new items. Gradually decorate living spaces so pets can grow acclimated to their newly decorated environs. Add a few pieces to rooms each day until you finally have all of your decorations out for display. This way
pets can sniff around the decorations and realize they do not pose a threat. Keep familiar pet belongings. Try not to upset the apple cart too much in regard to pets' cherished possessions. For example, do not move the dog bed from the living room and place the Christmas tree in its place. Pets need that familiarity and having some of their items with familiar smells can make for a smooth adjustment to holiday decorations.
Designate a pet-safe zone. If you will be inviting people over during the holidays, set aside a room for pets so they can be in relative quiet away from boisterous crowds. Locking pets away also helps prevent their escape from the home as guests come and go. Secure the tree and other decorations. Pets are often curious about new things, and they may climb or paw at items to try to understand them better. Decorative items may end up being knocked over by curious pets. Secure the tree using a string and an anchor to
the ceiling or wall like you might secure a large screen TV to prevent it from tipping over. Keep breakable ornaments and other trinkets behind display cases or beyond the reach of pets.
Discourage pets from using decorations as toys. Reprimand pets or move them away from holiday decor so they don't get the idea that these items are now their toys.
Be careful with holiday foods. Holiday foods and desserts are rich and full of ingredients that may not be healthy for pets. Keep a secure lid on trash pails and remind holiday guests that pets should not be fed table scraps. Pets may need some time to adjust to the changes that come with holiday decorating and celebrating to keep them happy and safe.
Woodstock Ingersoll Echo SPORTS
Wounded Red Devil seniors leave their game on the OFSAA court
Woodstock CI’s 39-26 Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) A senior girls’ basketball tournament-opening victory over the Delhi District Secondary School Raiders illustrated the Red Devils’ experience at provincial championships.
It showed WCI’s depth, resilience and ability to adapt, shifting strategy to meet the challenge at hand.
It also featured the loss of two starters, Bavieen Sajjan to a fractured bone in her foot and co-captain Morgan Smith with a broken pinkie finger on her shooting hand. Their injuries combined with a respiratory virus that took fellow starter and co-captain Peyton Barron out of the lineup proved an unwelcome and potentially costly cumulative loss.
“Within five minutes we went from medal contenders to survivors,” said coach Jason Poole, both pleased and proud with how a group of Red Devils without as much experience in big games responded.
“They went in raw, got their feet wet and gave us a chance to win,” he credited. “I was beyond proud of what they did.”
WCI opened its OFSAA quest on Nov. 21 at Kitchener’s Rockway Mennonite College, seeded fifth in the 18-team draw. The 17th-seeded Raiders surprised
the Red Devils with a strong first quarter, knocking down a pair of three-point field goals as part of a balanced inside-outside approach leading to a 12-4 lead. WCI’s attempts to press full court were frustrated by both a lack of scoring which limited opportunities, and also Delhi’s ability to move
the ball well against pressure.
The Red Devils were able to adjust, shifting to a tenacious person-to-person halfcourt defence which limited Delhi’s outside threat. WCI also displayed its depth, playing all 15 team members during the contest, with 11 seeing significant time on the court, an advantage that played out as the game advanced.
“We’re an all-around team,” said Smith. “Everyone can contribute.”
The Red Devils eked out an 8-6 scoring advantage in the second quarter, taking back control of the game with an 18-5 run through the third. WCI closed within one (20-19) with around five minutes remaining. Delhi’s Maddison Fazekas responded with her second three-point field goal of the game, however the Red Devils kept on coming, Claire Harmer closing the gap on an eight-foot shot between the right baseline and elbow, and then squaring accounts at 23 on a free throw.
Harmer found Kate Hooker at the right elbow for a field goal that gave WCI its first lead of the game (25-23) adding a putback for a four-point advantage. Smith upped that to seven in the
third quarter’s final minute on a strong drive, adding a free throw off a steal. The Red Devils carried their momentum through the fourth quarter, locking up a 13-point come-from-behind victory.
“We’re a gritty team,” said Harmer, “we don’t give up even when we’re down.”
The game hadn’t started well, she admitted.
“But we still played as a team, stayed positive. I think staying positive is a big factor.”
Smith and Sajjan led the Red Devils offensively with ten points apiece, Harmer added five and Hooker, Kaiden Martin and Autumn Vance four points apiece.
Mel Steinhoff had 11 for the Raiders with Fazekas adding eight.
Coming to OFSAA together as a team represented a big win said WCI’s Mikaela Runstedler, however, the Red Devils were also looking to be competitive.
“End it on a good note.”
WCI’s depleted lineup dropped a tough 38-35 overtime decision to ESC Nouvelle Alliance the morning of Friday, November 22nd. Vance led the Red Devils offensively with 13 points. The loss was dually tough in both emotional letdown and the fact it pushed WCI into the consolation side of the draw.
“They gave so much in that
game,” said Poole. “We needed to lick our wounds, quit feeling sorry for ourselves and refocus on the consolation bracket.”
The coaching staff’s pre-game message was for the Red Devils to leave their game on the court, leaving no room for ‘what-ifs’ during the game.
“And they didn’t,” credited Poole.
WCI would exit the OFSAA A draw with a 32-27 loss to North Lambton SS. Ava Bickell led the Red Devils with ten points.
Sports comes down to a combination of the controllable and uncontrollable, fate, composure and the work players and teams put in Poole summed up.
“It’s easier to swallow this piece with the group of girls we had. Win or lose, they made the whole experience worth it.”
The fact a shared high school basketball experience was coming to an end hit graduating Grade 12 veteran Ava Thistlewaite with around ten seconds remaining in the final game.
“We all started crying,” she recalled, a reaction reflecting regret but also joy at their shared journey, capped as it was at a provincial championship tournament. “It was sad but it was happy to get to do it with all these girls.
“To get to finish it at OFSAA was amazing.”
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
Delhi Raider Madison Fazekas (right) looks for a teammate under defensive pressure from Woodstock CI's Morgan Smith. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Delhi Raider Eowynn Fowler (right) cuts off WCI’s Addison Trepanier (left) during OFSAA A tournament action at Kitchener Rockway Mennonite College. Fowler had 21 points in the Raiders second game against the London St. Thomas Aquinas Saints. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Delhi Raider Grace Gehring (left) battles for possession of the ball against WCI’s Ava Bickle during OFSAA A at Kitchener Rockway Mennonite College. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Sim contributes substance and style to Team Blue Captains/Veterans basketball victory
Kyleigh Sim contributed both substance and style to a 52-51 Captains/Veterans Senior Girls’ Basketball Team Blue victory over Team White on Nov. 28 inside Woodstock CI’s Devildome.
The substance was an eightfoot baseline runner in the final minute, which would stand as the game-winning basket. Important, yes, but the stylistic points of a buzzer-beating firsthalf three-pointer still resonated for the Woodstock College Avenue Knight.
“I mean, they were both important,” she smiled. “But hey, the three-pointer felt better.”
Annual Captains/Veterans basketball games are a rich and lengthy tradition inviting players from each Oxford school team plus Lord Dorchester for a final ‘friendly.’ In effect, a celebration of the season that was, the games also provide a fond farewell to the sport for graduating veterans.
“It’s nice to play one last game with the girls I started with,” said Team Blue senior Kacie Bourgeois of Ingersoll DCI. “Nice to start and end with them.”
Team Blue, made up of College Avenue, Woodstock Huron Park, Ingersoll and St. Mary’s Catholic High School, came out gunning, taking a 23-10
first-quarter lead fueled by eight points from Chloe Jones and six by Peyton Cowan. Team Blue was up 30-22 at the half and led 43-31 heading home, before a late Team White, Woodstock CI and Dorchester, run closed the gap.
“It made it intense in the last minutes,” said Cowan.
WCI’s Morgan Smith was playing with a broken pinkie finger on her shooting (left) hand taped to her ring finger. She managed the unusual combination of an off-hand three-pointer and layup as part of her ninepoint total, as well as a pair of left-handed lay-ins, including a go-ahead bucket with 32.9 seconds to play.
Sim countered with a tough game-winning shot which established the final outcome, but certainly didn’t spoil the experience for any involved.
“It was a good end to the season,” summed up Smith, happy to play one last time with her own teammates, along with teammates and friends from other teams.
Jones led Team Blue with 19 points, Cowan and Sim - who added a halftime ‘bump’ challenge victory to her night - had 10 apiece, Olivia Elias five and Maryam Siddiqui, Oriana Belmonte and Aliya Anthony two each. Claire Harmer paced Team White with 15 including a trio of three-point field goals,
Smith added nine points, Thea McLelland seven, Jocelyn Pollard five, Ava Thistlewaite, Autumn Vance and Claire Currie four each and Mya Steller one three-point field goal.
JUNIOR
Team White 81, Team Blue 26 Team Blue’s Jada Laird did not cap the game with a long threepoint field goal and whether she made it or not would not have affected the outcome. But the crowd-pleasing attempt underlined the fun and festive atmosphere permeating WCI’s Devildome through both Captains/ Veterans games.
“It was close,” said the St. Mary’s Warrior. “But like… it’s sad I didn’t make it,” Laird added, a smile refuting her words. “This is very fun,” she added. Laird did knock down a free throw to hit the scoresheet, teammates Reagan White, Ava Stahle and Mila Kowalski each adding one basket, Callie Ireland and Avery Bradly four points each, Bella Sitko five and Ema-Leigh Hamilton six to capture Team Blue - Huron Park, St. Mary’s and Lord Dorchester - MVP honours.
“I think it was just fun to come out and play ball one last time,” summed up the latter. “It’s nice to get to know girls on the other teams too.”
A potent Team White - WCI and CASS - attack was led by Natalie Sutherland, who fin -
ished with 23 points and a victory in the halftime ‘highest points any way’ challenge. Brooklyn
Donais added 17, Brooke Halward added 15, Emily Pye nine, Myla Reissner and Julia Baer six apiece, Jill Strik three and Eden Fraser one field goal.
As well as a chance to meet new people from opposing teams, the evening provided an opportunity for reunions with former or current elementary
school, Woodstock Oxford Minor Basketball Association and Oxford Attack club teammates, said Team White’s Avery Molinaro.
“A very good, positive atmosphere with everyone.”
“Good memories,” agreed Halward, adding the night also provided an appreciated showcase for girls’ basketball in Oxford County. “It doesn’t get recognized very often.”
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
Kyleigh Sim and Team Blue senior teammates Maryam Siddiqui (left) and Julie Nuetel (centre) are all smiles after Sim hit a long, buzzer-beating three-point field goal. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Natalie Sutherland (right) takes control of the ball against the efforts of Bella Sitko. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Bella Sitko (centre) looks for an outlet as Myla Reissner (left) and Julia Baer (right) close in. (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
Biloski goal beautiful in the eyes of Silver Stickqualified beholders
JEFF TRIBE
Echo Contributor
Ward’s Automotive South Oxford U11 Storm Brody Biloski’s International Silver Stick (ISS) A Qualifier game and tournament clincher was a thing of impactful if not aesthetic beauty.
“It wasn’t a pretty goal, but I don’t care how they go in,” laughed coach Devin Homick. “They don’t ask how, they only ask how many.”
Regulation time was running out on the Sunday, Nov. 17 ISS qualifier in Collingwood, a goalless tie standing between South Oxford and the Woolwich Wildcats. But with under two minutes remaining, the Storm took advantage of a faceoff in the Woolwich zone. Won back to the point, the defenceman put the puck on goal, from where Biloski alertly capitalized.
“Just a jam play at the net,” said Homick.
The one-goal South Oxford lead stood up through the final 91 seconds, clinching both the tournament victory and a berth in the ISS A final, scheduled for Jan. 17 to 19 in Sarnia.
“The kids played a heck of a team game, I would say,” Homick summed up. “Ecstatic,” he added. “It’s a pretty big deal for them.”
The Storm entered the qualifier with previous tournament victories in Bradford and at its own event, along with a 231-1 record in Shamrock League A Division regular season play, attributable said their coach to a team game.
South Oxford (geographically centred near Salford and including players from Tillsonburg and Ingersoll) plays in a
loop including Dorchester, Strathroy, St. Marys, Norfolk (jointly based out of Simcoe, Waterford and Six Nations), Brant (Paris), St. Thomas, Mt. Brydges and New Hamburg. A Ward’s Automotive U11 coaching staff led by Homick features three former Tillsonburg Thunder senior hockey teammates, assistant coach Shane Balcomb, goalie coach Tommy Lee and trainer Cody Chute, along with assistant coach Eric Bartram.
"A good bench staff and a great group of kids,” said Homick of an effort to pro -
duce both quality hockey players ‘and good little leaders in their communities.’
“Our message to the kids is to play a defensive game, take care of our end first,” said Homick. “And the kids completely bought in.”
The Storm opened ISS qualifier tournament play with a 5-0 shoutout of Brant, building on a 1-0 first-period lead with four goals in the third frame. Carter Balcomb finished with four and Biloski added a single.
South Oxford shut out the Woodstock Jr. Navy Vets in its second outing, leading
2-0 after the first period and 3-0 heading into the third. Emerson Adam had two goals for the winners and Carter Smith, Biloski and Tommy Thomson one each. The Storm closed out round-robin play undefeated and unscored upon with a 3-0 shutout of Barrie. Adam opened the scoring in the second with Biloski and Thomson adding third-period markers.
South Oxford met the host Collingwood Jr. Blues in their semi-final, taking a 2-1 lead into the final minute before taking a late penalty and giving up the tying goal with 19 seconds left in regulation. The Blues enjoying a six-on-four player advantage at the time.
“It’s a big momentum shift,” admitted Homick, whose message before overtime was to stick to the gameplan. “And let’s go get the job done.”
Adam, who along with Balcomb had scored in regulation, added the three-onthree game-winner with 4:20 remaining in OT, controlling the puck along the boards before deking out in front of the net.
“And kind of threw it back short side to beat a good Collingwood goalie,” said Homick. “We struggled to put pucks past that kid.”
Heading into the season, the ISS A tournament was among the Storm’s big three major goals, a list including a league championship that would also lead into the Ontario Minor Hockey Association tournament.
“I think if we stick to our game, we’ll have a chance,” he said specifically of the upcoming ISS tournament in Sarnia. “But again, it’s sports, so anything can happen.”
Upper Thames Brewing releases more Anchor Town Ale batches amid popularity
EMILY STEWART
Echo Correspondent
Fans of the Woodstock Navy Vets hockey team can sip on a beer made in collaboration with Upper Thames Brewing Company to enjoy at the game, the brewery or at home.
Upper Thames Brewing Company and the Woodstock Navy Vets created the Anchor Town Blonde Ale. Nigel Inglis, sales manager for Upper Thames Brewing Company, said the brew was only sold directly to the team last year but was so popular that more batches had to be made to keep up with demand.
“We had people wanting to buy it at the brewery but didn't have enough product to open up sales to the public,” Inglis said. “So, we made more this
year.”
Upper Thames Brewing Company and the Woodstock Navy Vets have been working together since 2016. Inglis said the brewery staff were on board with the hockey team’s idea of creating a beer. The Vet’s graphic designer created the can design and Upper Thames crafted the brew.
Inglis said that working with the team to create the beer has been rewarding.
“The community really embraces the team,” he explained. “We already were serving our beer at their Anchor Town bar every home game. The Lazy Fox Amber Ale, Take a Hike Hazy Pale Ale and Backpaddle Blonde Ale were already available. Now we have added the Anchor Town Blonde Ale to the mix, and it seemed like a natu -
ral fit we could get something in there more appropriately branded for the hockey team.”
The Upper Thames Brewing Company enjoys working with local companies, organizations and small businesses.
The brewery previously created special beers with Adams Building Supply Company, Bear and Fox Apparel and United Way Oxford.
“It's important to support each other any way we can right now, Inglis said. “It's a win-win for both parties for sure. More exposure for the hockey team, as well as more exposure for the brewery.”
The Anchor Town blonde ale cans can be purchased at Upper Thames Brewing Company, Brickhouse Brewpub and at Navy Vets home games at the Anchor Town bar.
The Ward’s Automotive South Oxford U11 Storm qualified for the International Silver Stick (ISS) A tournament from Jan. 17 to 19 in Sarnia with a perfect 5-0 record at the ISS A qualifier in Collingwood from Nov. 15 to 17. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
The Woodstock Navy Vets and Upper Thames Brewing Company created the Anchor Town Blonde Ale. (NIGEL INGLIS PHOTO)
Navy Vets drop only weekend game to Merchants
LEE GRIFFI Editor
The Woodstock Navy Vets travelled to Norwich last Friday night and lost a 5-2 decision to the Doherty Division’s top team in front of nearly 500 fans. Aaron Bullock gave the visitors a 1-0 lead with his second of the season on a powerplay setup from Charley Barnes and Kyle Caron. Norwich tied it up three minutes later and scored the game’s next three goals before Woodstock’s Nolan Brett earned his eighth of the season with assists going to Davin Gray and Matthew Meyer to cut the lead to 4-2. The Mer-
chants would add an empty-net marker with just over two minutes remaining in the third period.
The Navy Vets had their chances as the Norwich took two 5-minute majors in the third, one for boarding and the other for head contact, but Woodstock couldn’t capitalize and was 1 for 7 with the man advantage on the night.
Notes…Davin Gray continues to lead the division in scoring with 16 goals and 35 points…Woodstock won six of their 10 games in November…the team travels to Paris on Saturday for its only game of the weekend and has two games the following weekend against Dorchester and Paris.
Double the Impact of your Donation this Holiday Season Leadership Challenge Grant Presented by Maglin Site Furniture
The team at Maglin Site Furniture will generously provide up to $25,000 to match all new or increased $1,200+ Leadership gifts, doubling the impact of your generosity. Together, we can help meet the growing needs here in our community while we work to fill gaps in service and ensure that nobody is left behind this holiday season.
ARE YOU A NEW LEADER?
When you make a first-time gift of $1,200 or more, your gift will be matched dollar for dollar. That means $2,400 to invest in our community! Doubling your impact.
RENEWING LEADERSHIP DONORS
When you increase your previous Leadership gift, the Leadership Challenge Grant will match your increase. For example, if you increase your donation from $2,000 last year to $2,500 this year, the Grant will match the $500 difference.
Thank you to Maglin Site Furniture and their employees for their generous support of the Leadership Grant. Visit www.unitedwayoxford.ca to donate today and learn more.
12 Days of Giving with United Way Oxford This holiday season, join United Way’s 12 Days of Giving Campaign and engage in a variety of ways to give back to your community and directly support those in need. There are opportunities to learn more about community issues, share in ways to make someone’s day a little better, and donate to support local organizations, and people, in our community through United Way.
Give the Gift of Hope
Looking for something to get that special, hard-to-buy person in your life this holiday season? Why not share your Local Love and donate to United Way Oxford on their behalf? It’s a thoughtful gift that gives back by supporting a network of programs and services across Oxford County.
You may also donate:
$10 to provide healthy snacks and meals to children at school. United Way works to address the immediate, basic needs of today while striving to reduce those needs in the future by investing in programs that help address food insecurity.
$25 to support a child with a free, in-school tutor who will help them build their reading skills and confidence in the classroom. United Way invests in programs that help kids reach their full potential.
$50 to provide eviction prevention resources and housing support to someone in need. United Way Oxford invests in housing stability as well as Transitional Housing to help ensure that safe, affordable and supportive housing is available right here in our community.
$75 allows a child, individual or family access to free mental health counselling when they need someone to talk to. United Way invests in programs that help build stronger communities by ensuring access to timely mental health support, especially as the holiday season is a hard time for many in our community.
Thank you for your support of United Way Oxford. United, we are building hope and opportunity for the future, and helping our family, friends, neighbours and coworkers when they need it most. Visit unitedwayoxford.ca to learn more, or scan the QR code
that
Among Ingersoll’s retail world lies a hidden gem Country Mills located at 360 Harris St. offers an amazing diverse line of products.
After trying on a pair of Australian made Redback shoes you can look at a great selection of grills and smokers from Traeger, Blackstone, Pit Boss and Louisiana Grill along with all the spices, accessories and propane. Need something to cook on it? No problem we have pork, beef and seafood in stock and lots of Dutch treats for dessert.
If you’re adding a new smoker or grill to your backyard does it have a pool, spa or dog house in it? Pool and spa chemicals as well as chlorine and straw are available---- the straw is for the dog house ya don’t put that in the pool.
It’s December now so if you need a real Christmas tree, we have that too. The tree will be getting a good watering after using one of our water softener salts. Throughout the store we have toys, candles, clothing and much more that could be gift wrapped for under that tree.
Country Mills’ main business is the manufacturing livestock feeds of all kinds. We have two plants. One located in Thorndale and another in Aylmer. We host 5 similar stores, some larger some smaller. Their locations are Thorndale, Aylmer, Ingersoll, Norwich and Burford to better serve you. Not only can we feed everything big or small but we offer live poultry in the form of day-old chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese and ready to lay hens. Farm hardware, feeders, waterers, fence and bedding are available to care for them.
We don’t make pet food but we sure stock and sell a lot of it at our stores. We do however make several blends of our own wild bird seed and sell close to 100 Tonnes a year between the stores. Sunflower, ny-
ger and suet is also part of the mix and we have the feeders to put it in.
It’s truly a one-of-a-kind mix! So let us offer you a warm invitation to drop by for gander, wait that word belongs to the poultry section. Drop in for a look and we look forward to meeting you and help answering any of your questions.
p.m.,
14,
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: Getting the real story at Pier 21
Some travel experiences are just plain fun; some offer a combination of entertainment and education; and some are simply serious – sometimes life-changingly serious.
I would put the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 in the latter category. If you spend the time and pay attention as you make your way through the exhibits at this museum on the Halifax waterfront, you will come out with a lot of new knowledge and perhaps even some changed perspectives.
You may even learn some new things about your own personal heritage – but more about that later, in our last stop at the museum.
Pier 21 was where about a million immigrants first set foot in Canaada, from 1928 to 1971. It was also an important transfer site for the Canadian military during World War II. So ironically, this is the place where many new Canadians entered the country for the first time, and also the place where many young Canadi-
ans left the country, too often for the last time, as they headed for the battlefields of Europe.
Those kinds of stories would make it easy for Pier 21 to be romanticized as heartwarming stories of newcomers and courageous stories of young soldiers are told. And while, yes, those accounts are part of the narrative here, Pier 21 does not duck the ugly realities of Canada’s racist immigration policies that lasted throughout the majority of our national history.
And that is, above all, the cause of the new knowledge and changed perspectives that can result from your visit, as I mentioned above.
The problem is summed up on one information panel entitled, Why Europeans? It reads, in part, “Canadian immigration policies overwhelmingly favoured white Europeans and Americans. Racist immigration policy and practice effectively excluded African, Asian and other racialized people until just a few years before Pier 21 closed in 1971.”
The museum tells its stories with brutal honesty. When we visited, there was a deeply moving exhibit concerning the reality of slavery in Canada. The facts as presented were in stark contrast to our comfortable image of Canada as the welcoming terminus of the underground railway, which welcomed enslaved people escaping from slavery in the U.S. That certainly happened, but so did slavery, with all its horrors, for a period that extended from 1629 to 1834.
Pier 21 owes its very existence to the work of a woman, herself the daughter of Jewish-Russian
immigrants who settled in Cape Breton. Ruth M. Goldbloom led the campaign to restore Pier 21 as a museum telling the stories of immigrants. Pier 21 opened in 1999. A decade later, it officially became The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Canada’s sixth national museum (four are in Ottawa, the fifth, the National Museum of Human Rights, is in Winnipeg).
Pier 21 is a facility that rewards those who take the time to read all of the information panels. There you find the true story of immigration, and you will inevitably pause to reflect on our national history, a mixed bag at best. Rivalling the stories of slavery for sheer horror is the account of the ship, the MSS St. Louis. In 1939, the MSS St. Louis attempted to land in Canada. It carried 900 Jewish refugees attempting to escape Nazi Germany. Prime Minister William Lyon Mckenzie King refused to allow the ship to land, and sent it back to Germany, where over a quarter of the passengers eventually died in concentration camps.
This, one of the darkest moments in Canadian history, is commemorated in an installation at Pier 21 called The Wheel of Conscience. The dramatic creation of Daniel Libeskind includes four interlocking gears. The smallest, labelled hatred, activates the racism wheel, which moves the xenophobia gear, which drives the anti-Semitism wheel. The names of the passengers are etched on glass in the piece.
The museum not only offers hours of exhibited reading materials, carrying the visitor from the darkest days of immigration
policies to today’s much more inclusive times, but there are also regular tours presented by clever and entertaining guides.
The museum’s theatre shows an uplifting film featuring recent immigrants to Canada.
And visitors may be surprised to discover the family research centre, where knowledgeable staffers are poised behind computer screens, ready to help you with your individual quest for personal history.
We had come quite unprepared for such an opportunity, but after dredging up a very few bits of personal genealogy, I was surprised at how much information our guide was able to excavate from the records. In a matter of minutes, we had gone back six generations in the history of my birth family – a family I only
discovered a few years ago. I left with a few sheets of information, including the earliest ancestor discovered in that brief time, a man with the intriguing name of Ritchison Travers.
So avid, amateur genealogists may want to skip the tour and spend all their time in the family research centre! But that would be a shame, because time spend at Pier 21 will change your perspective on the history of our country. You will feel shame at what we were, and perhaps pride at what we are becoming. We can hope so, anyway.
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
Hockey fans will remember this famous immigrant to Canada – Hockey Hall of Famer Stan Mikita, who came to Canada as a child from the former Czechoslovakia.
An art installation by Métis artist Tracey-Mae Chambers. The piece reflects the conflicting emotions inspired by the colour red and according to the artist is an attempt "to bridge the gap between settlers and First Nations."
Pier 21, the Canadian Museum of Immigration, on the Halifax waterfront.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Zorra Township News
2025 Zorra budget looking at 5.26% tax levy increase
million increase over last year, a rise of 3.4 per cent.
The brunt of budget deliberations are finished in the Township of Zorra, with a projected 5.26 per cent tax levy increase expected when the final bylaw comes back to council on Dec. 14.
Council went through the operating budget at its Nov. 20 meeting, but no major reductions were made. Mayor Marcus Ryan called it a “responsible budget.”
“I don't wish the number was lower,” Ryan said during the meeting. “I'm happy with what our residents are going to get for the now 5.26 per cent increase, I think they are going to get value for it.”
The other half of the budget, the capital plan, had been discussed earlier at the Nov. 6 meeting and no changes were made to it. It is a nearly $3.8 million, or 1.57 per cent, increase over last year. The operating budget has an over $8.4
Although listed in the presentation and report as a total increase of 4.97 per cent, Director of Finance Kim Grogan later indicated that after an investigation some wages in the recreation department were not included. $33,742 was added to the operating budget.
Last year’s tax hike was 12.26 per cent, the largest increase in years.
The final rate will be set once the budget bylaw has been passed, returned assessment rolls have been received, and the tax ratios have been set by Oxford County.
The assessed value that is key to what residents pay each year comes from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) rather than the market value of a home.
The last time a general province-wide assessment occurred was in 2016, before housing prices exploded across
$4,500 in grants for community projects approved by council
CONNOR LUCZKA
Echo Correspondent
Thamesford Minor Ball Association (TMBA)’s pitch for a new portable mound was a homerun last month.
On Nov. 20, Zorra Township Council approved funds for both the TMBA and the Zorra Caledonian Society as part of its community partnership program, an initiative whereby community groups can request grants for upcoming big purchases that will be a benefit to not only the organization but the community.
Jennifer Dyer of the TMBA delegated on its behalf, running council through the need for a portable pitching mound for slow pitch and other maintenance work at North Park.
The needs for slow pitch are different than baseball, as Dyer said, and the mound at the North Park is quite low. The portable mound, estimated at $4,000, would be able to go over the mound, secure in place using spikes underneath, and be removable.
“As a former slow pitch player, I know their needs, as far as the pitching mound, is different,” Coun, Paul Mitchell said after Dyer’s presentation. “If it's something we can use to broaden the usage and the quality of usage for multiple groups, I think it's something we should support.”
Just prior to Dyer’s presentation, Angela Langlois, Scott Thomson, Nicole Barnett, and Elizabeth Bruce delegated for
the purchase of a water refill station, an asset that is much needed, according to Barnett.
For example, for any events that take place outside the Embro Community Centre (such as the Embro Highland Games), there is no drinking water available on the grounds and organizers have to invest in disposable water bottles.
The idea that they had was a water refilling station – a small, fridge-sized unit that uses potable water and needs to be plugged in or attached to CO2 cannisters but is otherwise portable.
“We want to continue to operate our events in a way that is sustainable, comfortable for our patrons, and is an affordable solution for our organizations,” Barnett said. “We really can't do this alone, though. We really felt like the purchase of a unit like this is a bit more than our organizations could afford and really manage, because it would just be another task for already really stretched volunteers, and it might just be beyond our capabilities.”
She later clarified that use of the station by other community groups is being considered and they will strike something that is fair for the whole community, though exactly what that would look like is not finalized yet.
Council approved 30 per cent of the projected $10,000 water refill station ($3,000) be included in the 2025 capital plan, in addition to 30 per cent of the projected $5,000 portable mound ($1,500) as well.
much of the country. Although one was scheduled to occur in 2020, it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Although no major changes were made, council had a fulsome, line-byline discussion and each expressed that they were happy with how it shaped up.
Coun. Paul Mitchell in particular asked numerous clarifying questions about certain “red flags,” though was satisfied with every answer.
“When I go through those numbers, there's nothing really to argue with,” Mitchell said after questioning staff. “I'm confident that staff are providing us with the best available numbers they can come up with. And in some cases, it would be nice if the numbers were lower, but that's the way the world works.”
“We, I believe, experienced what has been, at least in recent history, the most significant increase on taxation for our residents and businesses,” Coun. Katie Grigg said. “Those decisions were not
taken lightly last year, those were really challenging decisions, and we've had to sort of carry that forward as a community. So, what I was really hoping heading into this year was something that was going to be a little bit more digestible, because everything has been so expensive for us, not just in our property taxes, but in every other aspect of life.”
She added residents are struggling but it doesn’t mean council should cut corners and not be financially responsible.
The final budget bylaw will be coming for council consideration on Dec. 14. A scheduled special meeting for budget deliberations on Nov. 27 has been cancelled.
The nearly 80-page 2025 budget is included in the Nov. 20 meeting agenda. It can be accessed here: https://zorra.civicweb.net/document/47366/2025%20 Draft%20Budget.pdf?handle=07FDFC59D8A0497297403D3B6CE86C34.
Ballooning police costs
are a big part of the 2025
Zorra budget
CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent
Zorra Township Council has tentatively approved the 2025 budget, and a large portion of the tax levy increase is due to policing costs.
The bill from the Oxford Provincial Police is up by over $235,000 from 2024 for a total budget line of $1,396,672. That is an 18.96 per cent increase from last year and represents an overall tax increase of 2.03 per cent.
The dramatic increase is due to two factors. Not only are policing costs increasing, but the township is rapidly growing which is shown on the bottom line.
CAO Diane Larder explained the township has an agreement with police and it states the township pays for any increase in services it needs and estimates ahead of the new year.
The OPP also reconciles two years pervious so each year the township is refunded or billed the difference of actuals versus estimates. In 2025, $82,000 is being paid to the OPP to reconcile 2023 on top of the estimated costs of the coming year.
After Coun. Kevin Stewart asked about if the municipality can monitor what kind of bill they will be getting each year, Larder confirmed that the
numbers come directly from the OPP and there isn’t a way for the township to know before the numbers are provided.
During deliberations, council discussed grant opportunities for mitigating policing costs moving forward. Mayor Marcus Ryan mentioned one that he knows about through the solicitor general’s office. The community safety and well-being program means to mitigate operational costs by using policing alternatives to prevent crime, among other initiatives. He is aware of the Woodstock Police Service having received a grant in the past but was unsure if Oxford County OPP has gotten it in the past.
Barring that program, no other outside opportunities were discussed during the meeting; however, on Nov. 29 the Province of Ontario announced $77 million in financial relief to offset the costs of policing for small and rural municipalities. Zorra Township expects confirmation of its portion soon which could be used to offset policing costs.
The funds could go specifically to offset the 2023 reconciled costs by 3.75 per cent, the 2023 reconciled overtime costs of 44 per cent, and invoiced 2025 policing costs by 10 per cent.
The province also announced it will be reviewing the OPP billing model.
CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent
THAMESFORD LIONS DONATE SIGN TO PJHL TEAM
club donated and installed a new sign
a new
recently,
A hot punch to warm up this holiday season
Images of warm family gatherings dominate millions of people's holiday season memories. But the warmth inside a home come the holiday season does not mean it's not cold outside. Indeed, snow-filled landscapes and/ or temperatures below freezing are not uncommon come late December. As the mercury drops outside, families can warm up inside with a batch of Hot Holiday Punch courtesy of Lines+Angles.
Hot Holiday Punch
Makes 14 servings
16 cups water, divided 5 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen, plus extra for garnish
21/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup red hots cinnamon candies
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
12 whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
1 lemon, sliced Cheesecloth
1. In a large saucepan, set over medium-high heat, bring 1 quart of water and cranberries to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes or until the cranberries begin to pop. Drain, reserving liquid and cranberries. Put cranberries through a fine mesh strainer or food mill. Set aside.
2. In a Dutch oven or large pot, combine sugar, red-hots, lemon juice, cranberry liquid and cranberry pulp, and remaining 3 quarts of water.
3. Place cloves and cinnamon sticks in a double thickness of cheesecloth. Tie with string to form a bag;
Healthy holiday recipe swaps
add to pan with the punch. Bring to a boil; stir until sugar and candies are dissolved. Discard spice bag. Strain juice through a fine mesh strainer. Serve hot with lemon slices and cranberries.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes Difficulty: Easy
Although presents garner most of the fanfare during the holiday season, there is no denying that food and entertaining also figure prominently this time of year.
Delish magazine reports that Christmas food consumption ranks third, behind Thanksgiving and Super Bowl Sunday, among Americans, and that a single Christmas meal can weigh in at 3,000 calories, not factoring in any other food consumed that day.
No one wants to feel held back while having fun with family and friends, but smart food choices can mean healthier living during this season of festivities. Dish up these alternatives when holiday entertaining.
Lean on leaner cuts of meat. A strong body is built on protein, and holiday hosts often make a meat or poultry dish the star of the holiday dinner table. When selecting holiday fare, choose leaner options such as round or loin roasts; otherwise, select white-fleshed fish and skinless poultry in lieu of other options.
Use broths instead of creams. Soups and gravies are popular this time of year, and both can be made healthier by opting for stock or broth bases over more fattening milks or creams when creating these recipes.
Create a one-crust pie. Pie is one of the more popular holiday desserts, and plenty of the calories come from a rich, buttery crust. Lighten up by serving a one-crust pie, such as pumpkin or sweet potato. Fruit-based pies like apple or blueberry also can be made with one crust. Simply top the fruit with a light
crumb coating.
Find ways to incorporate vegetables. Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins and nutrients. Many also are high in fiber, so they can help people avoid overeating. According to dietary experts from the American Heart Association, people should aim for four to five servings of vegetables each day. When making a plate, fill half of the plate with vegetables. Enhance dishes like lasagna or other pastas with fresh vegetables as well.
Skip the fried bird. Although deep-frying a turkey can reduce cooking time, frying historically is not the best cooking method for those who are making health-conscious choices. Rather than frying, consider spatchcocking (also known as butterflying) the turkey to enable it to cook faster. Use fresh herbs and seasonings instead of butter and oil to flavor your turkey as well. Skip the cocktails. The Center for Science in the Public Interest says that classic cocktails with little to no added sugar typically fall into the 150- to 200-calorie range, while others can be about 200 to 300 calories each. Many people will want to save those extra calories for dessert or another indulgent dish rather than drinking them away. If you want to simulate a cocktail, make a spritzer with sparkling water and unsweetened cranberry juice.
Celebrants can make some smart choices in the foods and beverages they eat to enjoy a healthier holiday season this December.
The
at the Thamesford Arena. Members Scott Beam, Dick Dufton and Steve Gordon installed it recently
sign
highlighting the Thamesford Trojans Hockey Club and the Lions.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
What do miners put on their face at night? Coal cream.
Why did the coach go to the bank? To get his quarterback.
What is green and sings? Elvis Parsley.
Did you hear about the man who got his left arm cut off? He's all right now.
Why did the bird go to the restaurant?
Because he wanted a tweet.
What do frogs drink? Croak-a-cola.
Why can't a leopard hide? Because he's always spotted.
Why did the rancher name his ranch "Peanut Butter"? It was a great spread.
What's the richest kind of air? Billionaire.
How come my uncle does not brush his hair? Because he is bald.
MOOSE
At just 13 weeks old Moose is a whopping 60 pounds already. This handsome boy is a Saint Bernard and he loves to meet new people and fellow dogs. Moose definitely has his playful puppy moments but in true Saint Bernard form he loves to lay and relax and sleep! Here he is loving life at the Trailer. We love you Moose!
tis the season
'TIS THE SEASON
Route to the Past – Celebrating the Canadian Press
SCOTT GILLIES Contributor
In recent years, Grant Haven Media, the publishers of this newspaper, have proven the value and interest in local news. Despite the inundation of social media and online news sources, Stewart Grant and his firm have successfully enlarged their catalogue of local papers to ten. There is obviously still an interest in local content, local coverage, and the physical feel of newsprint in your hands.
Looking back through time, one of the most influential newspaper men in Canada was John Frederick Bligh Livesay, a man described as the “builder and architect of the Canadian press”. This is his story.
Fred Livesay was born on the Isle of Wight in 1875. At the age of 16 he witnessed and wrote about a shipwreck which was published in “The Times”. This sparked his journalistic passion and so, at the age of 20, he left home to pursue this new career in Canada.
Like many immigrants, life in Canada was not what he expected, nor did his dream occur overnight. He found work at a lumber camp in Ontario before landing a job as the sports editor with the “Regina Leader Post” apparently because of his knowledge of British football.
By 1903 he had moved to Winnipeg and found work as an editor with the “Winnipeg Tribune”. It was here that he met and fell in love with fellow journalist Florence Randal. She was a wellknown and respected author and poet. Florence had been born in Quebec and
as a young teacher, was selected as one of 40 Canadian educators to be sent to South Africa during the Boer War, tasked with teaching young children housed in British prisoner of war camps.
In the early days of the 20th century, news stories were shared around the globe by means of telegrams or “the wire”. As sharp-eyed, keen-witted telegram editor for the “Tribune”, Fred Livesay was able to provide a steady stream of stories. Each report sent out via the telegraph wires would end with -30- to signify the end of the story.
While dating Florence, Fred became the general manager of the western Canada associated press agency. This would later amalgamate with two other agencies to form Canadian Press. From 1907 until 1917 he ran the western offices. His abilities as a newspaper man became legendary.
During the Great War, Fred Livesay was appointed the Dominion’s Press Censor for western Canada but in 1918 he went overseas himself as a war correspondent to cover the heroic actions of the Canadian troops. What he saw on the front lines inspired him to write a history of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, “Canada’s Hundred Days: with the Canadian Corps from Amiens to Mons”.
Shortly following his return to Canada, Fred moved to Toronto to become the general manager of Canadian Press; a post he held for the next twenty years. In 1922, Fred reported that “the Canadian Press is no longer an abstraction but a living thing for which it is an honour and privilege to work. The CP staff
Weekend Quiz
1) What is the traditional birthstone of December?
2) Who plays the role of the Winter Soldier in the Marvel universe?
3) How many times did the boy call “Wolf!”?
4) What was the original name for the song Jingle Bells?
5) What year was the Star Wars Holiday Special televised?
6) What color are the berries of the mistletoe plant?
7) “Mele Kalikimaka” means Merry Christmas in which language?
8) How many points does a snowflake have?
9) True or False. Greenland has green on their flag.
10) What’s more dangerous: hypothermia or frostbite?
are imbued with the ideal of eager and devoted service”. (That same attention to public service is echoed in today’s publication which you are reading.)
During the early years of the CP, they were paid an annual subsidy by the Canadian government to help maintain its operations, but in 1924, when asked by the Minister of Labour to write a pro-government slant in some of the press coverage for a big coal strike, Fred refused and from that point on, they declined to accept a subsidy from any branch of government. According to one historian, this was a particularly “stinging letter”. Other historians have made note that Fred Livesay had learned a few choice words while working in the lumber camps and was well equipped with
a “breathtaking command of explosive language”!
A one-time neighbour described Livesay as a “sprightly gentleman with a 500-watt twinkle in his eyes and a waggish tongue” … one of “the most enchantingly enigmatic personalities” they had ever known.
A good many of those years were spent living in Clarkson Ontario, west of Toronto, in what is now part of Mississauga. Here, Fred and Florence and their two daughters Sophie and Dorothy constructed a rambling, many-windowed house they called “Woodlot”.
One of Fred’s many hobbies was gardening and he was particularly well known in the area for his roses. In writing the poem “Lament”, Dorothy described her father as “blushed from the sun you sought, and muscular from garden toil; hands stained with the purple of an iris bloom, violas grown for a certain room”. His hands “were rosy still, not chalk like the cliffs you knew in boyhood on the Isle of Wight”. Dorothy, Sophie, Florence and Fred spent many hours visiting one of the other Clarkson neighbours, fellow author Mazo de la Roche who penned the hugely successful series of “Jalna” novels.
Tragedy struck the family in 1944 when Fred suffered a fatal heart attack. He was laid to rest in the storied cemetery of St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Erindale. Appropriately, his gravestone contains the standard typesetting mark of all news reports indicating the end of the story, -30-.
Route2thepast@gmail.com
(CONTRIBUTED
Ingersoll Choral Society presents “A Candlelight Christmas” at Trinity United Church, Ingersoll A lovely variety of Christmas music, performed by candlelight! Dec 13 and 14 at 7 pm and a 2 pm matinee on Dec 14.
Tickets $25, at Patina’s, Ingersoll, Long & McQuade, Woodstock, or call Steve at 226-228-9253.
Ingersoll 50+ Activity Centre Bus Trip: Tina Turner the Musical Wednesday February 19th
$150/members $165/ non-members Price includes: Motorcoach, driver gratuity, and Theater Ticket in section 110. Bus Departs 5:15pm. Register by Jan 15th at 519-485-3869
HOMEMADE FREEZER MEALS
St. Paul’s Church, Ingersoll, has been busy making meals that you can simply pull out of the freezer. We’d love to make life easier for you this winter. For more details, please call our church office at 519-485-3390 or by email: stpauls@ execulink.com.
Featuring your favourite songs of the season and special musical guests! Refreshments will follow. Free will offering only. oldstpauls. com/519-537-3912.
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. 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.
PEER SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS
Third Wednesday of each month; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
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
ANNUAL SANTA CHRISTMAS BREAKFAST
December 1st, 9-11:30am come visit Santa, $10.00, Children under 3 are free.
NEW YEAR'S EVE TICKETS ARE STILL AVAILABLE
couples are $25.00 single are $15.00 East Hill is Playing at 8pm-1am. Doors open at 5pm.
CADETS ON MONDAYS but no cadets December 23rd and December 30th.
EXECUTIVE MEETING
December 3rd at 7pm.
BRANCH GENERAL MEETING
December 10th at 7:30pm.
DART LEAGUES
Tuesdays at 7:30pm, Wednesday at 7:15pm, Thursdays at 7:30pm, Fridays at 8pm.
Sunday, Dec 8th @ 10:30am 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 1:118]
Christmas Eve, Tuesday, Dec 24th @ 6:30pm Christmas Through the Eyes of Faith
Get a head start on New Year's resolutions
After the rush of the holiday season has largely ended, and the excess of the season starts to weigh on celebrants' minds, it is customary for many people to start thinking about the changes they want to implement in the new year. According to a Pew Research Center survey of United States adults conducted in January 2024, 30 percent of people reported making at least one resolution, with half of this group making more than one. The survey also found that young adults are the most likely to make New Year's resolutions, with 49 percent of those between the ages 18 and 29 saying they have made a resolution.
It's never too early to start thinking about what to improve upon in 2025, or which goals to set. Here are some common resolutions and how to implement them.
Exercise more. Getting in shape is one of the most popular New Year's resolutions every year. Gym memberships spike and people often invest in home exercise equipment around this time of year. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, wearable technology continues to be a top trend in fitness and has been a mainstay since 2016. While Fitbit and the Apple Watch series have remained strong contenders, one also may want to invest in the Garmin Vivomove, which boasts wireless charging. Tracking fitness goals can keep those resolutions going strong.
Improve mental well-being. Getting in shape is not the only health-related goal this time of year. Mental health also comes into play when people make their resolutions. Taking opportunities to slow down and be more mindful can
help. One way to do so is through journaling. Human behavior expert and author Natalie Friscia Pancetti, says journaling reduces stress, helps with anxiety, encourages confidence, and can improve perceptions. This is why she developed a journal with inspirational writing prompts as a companion to her ÒThis TooÓ book and planner. Quit smoking. Quitting smoking is a worthy goal. Health care experts know smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and has been linked to more than 27 diseases. Many people want to
quit smoking, but the Mayo Clinic says only about 5 percent of people who try to quit succeed without a smoking cessation product. Nicotine replacement items are some of the most popular smoking cessation tools. For those who want to go drug-free, FŸm is a device that addresses the three major components of habit formation that occur with smoking. Employing flavored air, the device replaces the fixation of the hand-to-mouth habit with non-addictive plant extracts that are inhaled, simulating smoking without the nega -
tive effects. Learn a new language. Learning a new skill or language is another popular resolution. Today there are many apps available to help people learn one or more new languages. From Duolingo to Babbel to Memrise, there are programs available whether one is a visual learner or wants to jump right into specific phrases.
Many people get a jump-start on identifying their resolutions in earlyto mid-December so they'll be ready to move forward come New Year's Day.
WCI RedPlayers presenting Catch Me If You Can onstage December 11 through 14
JEFF TRIBE Echo Contributor
Desi VanBeek-Paterson may not be perfect. But he’s a pretty solid Grade 11 student who most of the time shows up for class, does his homework and pulls off an average of around 85 per cent.
Stepping outside that bubble of respectability may be a contributing factor to his enjoyment of playing con artist Frank Abagnale in the Woodstock Collegiate Institute’s RedPlayers’ upcoming family-friendly production of Catch Me If You Can, hitting the school’s newly renovated stage December 11th through 14th each evening at 7 p.m.
“It’s just fun all the way through,” said VanBeek-Paterson, adding, “I think it’s amazing to have the opportunity to live someone else’s life.”
Described as a ‘high-flying, fast-paced’ musical based on the movie of the same name, the action is inspired by Abagnale’s true-life experiences as a particularly resourceful con man, trying to stay one step ahead of FBI pursuit.
“He’s the protagonist and he breaks the law,” says VanBeek-Paterson of a fun story where the lead character is a bad guy, but with redeeming and charismatic qualities. The fact Abagnale began his career at the age of 16 only makes the role more relatable.
“You’re rooting for him, you want him to win.”
The story is told from Abagnale’s perspective VanBeek-Paterson continued, cautioning it’s not so much reality, as what Abagnale wanted to believe was reality.
“Or how he interprets it,” interjected director David DeJonge. “That’s a good way to put it.”
Kaiden Martin plays Abagnale’s love interest Brenda, an innocent nurse at a hospital where he is pretending to be a doctor.
“She’s not interested in him,” said Martin. “So
David
en Martin as Brenda the
and
invite fans of musical theatre and live performance to enjoy ‘Catch Me If You Can’ for 7 p.m. dates Wednesday, December 11th through Saturday, December 14th at WCI’s renovated auditorium. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at onstagedirect.com up to two hours before individual performances, or at the door via a cash-only transaction.
that’s kind of the chase.”
In total, Catch Me If You Can features 57 WCI student cast members and roughly half that many again as production crew.
Some roles are shared, with a changing actor roster depending on performance. The show represents the combination of extra-curricular activity and a credit course in musical theatre. WCI RedPlayer graduates have gone on from the program to exclusive post-secondary educational opportunities and also careers in the performing arts says DeJonge.
“We’ve got some people in Stratford, and some working in shows in Toronto.”
The curtain will rise this year not only on a high-energy musical but a completed $2.5-million renovation to WCI’s historical auditorium. After presenting last year at the church across the street, DeJonge is looking forward to returning home to a facility featuring upgrades to the stage and guest seating along with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Tickets can be purchased online up to two hours prior to individual performances by
scrolling down the onstagedirect.com website to find Catch Me If You Can or plugging in https:// www.onstagedirect. com/buy/event_info.action?eventId=2256. They can also be purchased at the door in a cash-only transaction.
The $25 per ticket cost, along with fundraising efforts, supports the $68,000 budget for a show DeJonge firmly believes ranks amongst the best of its contemporaries, while also providing participants with an enjoyable and productive educational opportunity.
“It gives our students as professional an experience as you can get in high school.”
Live theatre can be inspirational says VanBeek-Paterson, encouraged to take the stage himself after seeing his sister perform.
“It can really start the passion in you.”
There is also an element of personal challenge and growth says Martin, admitting to occasional nervousness while waiting to enter from the wings. However, once she does, Martin doesn’t feel like she’s on a stage anymore, rather where her charac
night approaches, along with performances for area elementary schools the preceding week.
“We just want people to laugh, cry and have a good time,” Martin concluded, extending a final invitation for musical theatre fans to come and catch the production if they can.
ter is.
“I really like being able to get out of my comfort zone.”
The production team features three WCI staff members including DeJonge as director, musical director Adriano Burgo, choreographer Victoria Bannon of Artistic Movement, stage manager Hannah Young, set and costume designer Deb Erb, lighting design by Pete Dunbar, lighting technician Aryrson Maloney, and producer Scott Mackintosh.
Rehearsals have been
Director
DeJonge (left), Desi VanBeek-Paterson as Frank Abagnale (centre),
Kaid-
Nurse,
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)
DENNISON
NEIL FRANKLIN OBITUARY
Neil Dennison, 83, of Ingersoll, Ontario, passed away on November 28th, 2024 at Cedarview Retirement Living.
He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 54 years, Bonnie Dennison (nee Hamm) and survived by his son Todd (Shari) Dennison, his daughter Krista Dennison (Tim Cripps), and his grandson Taron. He is also predeceased by his sister Elda Williamson and brothers Maurice (Moe), Eason, and Wayne.
Neil and Bonnie were active OPAL supporters and spent 10 years working hard to successfully stop the proposed landfill. He also enjoyed cruising in his Mustang convertible and working on his country property. Neil had a long career in sales, working at Canadian General Electric for years before transitioning to waste management sales at Browning Ferris Industries (BFI), among others. But his best and most rewarding calling was that of Husband, Dad, and Grandpa, which he carried out with such determination and unwavering support.
An informal Celebration of Life will be held in January in Ingersoll – details will be available at www.mcbeathdynes.ca. A private family gathering will take place, in the warmer months, for the internment of his ashes. Donations in his memory may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation or to the Ingersoll Senior’s Centre through www.mcbeathdynes.ca.
Personal condolences may be posted at mcbeathdynes.ca/ memorials/neil-dennison/5082002/
We are saddened to announce the passing of Don Cole at his residence on Saturday, November 23, 2024 Loving husband of the late Barbara Cole (2020). Dear father of David Jon and Mitchell D. Cole. Grandfather to Brandon and Leenah, Great grandfather to Emmalee and Jackson. Also remembered by daughter-in-law Anita (Empy). Beloved brother of Kenneth (predeceased) and three sisters, Janice (predeceased), Susan & Donna. Don had a lifelong career as a Public Health Microbiologist. He was an avid golfer, spent many years active with ITOPA, and had a long-time association with the Lions Club. Don had a very active & creative influence on his family and the community. Cremation has taken place.
An Inurnment will be held at Ingersoll Rural Cemetery. Date to be determined.
A Celebration of Life will be held later. Memorial donations in Don’s memory can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Ontario. Arrangements entrusted to McBeath-Dynes Funeral Home 246 Thames Street South Ingersoll.
Personal Condolences may be posted at mcbeathdynes.ca/ memorials/donald-cole/5516944/index.php
