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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 25

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Ontario investing in Woodstock to support victims of genderbased violence LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

“It’s a game-changer.”

That is how the head of the Oxford Sexual Assault Services (OSAS) described a recent funding announcement from the province. Laura McCreary is a therapist and program coordinator.

The province said it is taking action to prevent and address gender-based violence and support survivors in Oxford by investing nearly $460,000 over three years in Oxford County Community Health Centre (OXCHC) to expand services to support victims of sexual assault.

McCreary said Oxford County has been significantly under-resourced for many years when it comes to sexual violence support.

“OSAS is the only provider in the county. It’s a relatively new program established in 2022 and is a program within the OXCHC. Our work has focused since then on trying to stabilize the services, and this is big news for us. It means over the next two years we will be not only able to stabilize services but also expand them.”

The boost in funding means the organization will be able to expand its eligibility criteria.

“We will be able to provide supports for people of any age who have experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives. For the first time, we will be able to support children and youth. Previously, we were supporting women and identified people over the age of 16 and now we will support all gender identities at any age as well as family and caregivers for kids who have experienced sexual abuse,” explained McCreary.

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VICTORIA DAY PARADE

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Oxford MP Arpan Khanna drove the parade route in vintage style during Woodstock's annual Victoria Day Parade.

Story on page 12.

The cost of Woodingford Lodge LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Residents of Oxford County might be surprised to know just how much money the three Woodingford Lodge sites are costing them.

The three homes are operated by Oxford County, a 160-bed home in Woodstock and two 34-bed satellites in Ingersoll and Tillsonburg. The bottom line is the county billed residents about $12.8 million over and above what the province supplied them for the 2025 budget year.

There is a huge difference between for-profit longterm care (LTC) and municipal homes. Private homes operate on what the Ontario government gives them.

Full disclosure, this reporter worked 14 years at a for-profit chain of long-term care and retirement homes in a communications role, and I know how the system

works, particularly when it comes to funding. I also spent five years on the Ontario Long-Term Care Association board of directors.

Caressant Care owns and operates several homes in Oxford County and has a similar bed count to Woodingford. While the for-profit company has no obligation to release its funding numbers, it cannot get additional funding to provide care and pay for other expenses other than from within.

Oxford County CAO Ben Addley explained all municipalities in the province are required by law to provide long-term care beds, although the statute is generic when it comes to how many beds.

“Historically, the reason we are in the three urban centres is a little bit of equalization of service rather than just operating one home. As you saw in the numbers, and private operators would experience the same thing, CONTINUED TO PAGE 2

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May 23, 2025

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Local taxpayers add nearly $13 million on top of provincial contributions CONTINUED FROM FRONT

the larger the home, the greater the efficiencies.”

These days, the smallest new home being built across the province is 128 beds. In the for-profit world, that is the least number of beds a home could have to make it profitable. Addley said the county’s municipal homes offer a superior product compared to the for-profit sector.

“I assume our private partners are meeting the regulations and requirements, but I stand behind the fact our municipal long-term care is second to none. They provide great service, we have great staff, we maintain our employment numbers. Everyone is always looking for employees, but we aren’t in critical stages a lot of times, like in other areas.”

He added Woodingford provides a gold standard when it comes to care, but he isn’t criticizing the for-profit world. The Echo asked the county for numbers from the last three years, which they provided.

The financial breakdown shows just how expensive the 34-bed satellites are to operate. On a per-bed cost, Ingersoll this year shows a cost of just under $67,500 while Tillsonburg comes in at just over $64,000. That compares to a bit over $52,000 per bed at the much larger Woodstock site. According to the provincial Ministry of Long-Term Care, no new long-term homes are being built with fewer than 128 beds to maximize economies of scale.

Addley admitted the care provided is expensive, but the county is diligent in ensuring a high level of care continues while enabling strategies

for efficient use of tax dollars.

The county last year looked into building a new, much larger home in Ingersoll to absorb the current facility, but council decided the burden on taxpayers was too great once a 20 per cent tax hike was on the table.

“Staff are looking at how we can run them more efficiently. How can we maintain the level of beds we are currently providing? Like you said, the amount of subsidy the province was willing to contribute to the capital side, really made it really made it cost prohibitive, and it would have probably doubled the levy cost, as you said,” explained Addley.

He added every long-term care home is required by the province to have a director on site, something that adds to the budget and something he is pushing against for the smaller satellite sites along with other expenses required for smaller homes.

“We are trying to negotiate, push back and advocate to say you have to scale this back for smaller operators for us to be more efficient. We will continue to do that and as we make progress it will continue to help us out.”

Anyone outside of Oxford County can add their name to the long-term care bed wait list at Woodingford as per provincial rules. That means people living in the county looking for a longterm care bed when their time comes are not guaranteed a spot, despite paying taxes for years.

“You’re right and we do have this conversation and I’ll be honest, even council struggles with it

Woodingford Lodge - Ingersoll.

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Woodingford Lodge - Woodstock.

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

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when they are making their decisions,” said Addley.

The Echo asked Addley if the county would consider selling the long-term care beds located at satellite locations, including for-profit peopleCare, which has asked the province to build a home in Ingersoll.

“Anything we can do to support or maintain long-term care beds, we would probably take to council to look at. If we were going to get out of those locations, we would look at what are the best opportunities for them to make sure we maintain that level (of beds) in the county.”

Warden Marcus Ryan did not specifically address the cost of operating the three homes, but did say the county is always looking at saving precious dollars.

“We are always looking at ways to run more effectively and efficiently in all services we deliver, whether it’s long-term care, paramedic services, roads or human services. We are constantly assessing whether they are services we deliver directly or in partnership with other people. That’s always on the table.”

“As for what the direct costs are per bed or resident in specific homes, I don’t have those numbers off the top of my head, but always open to looking for opportunities to deliver a service better for the same dollars or just as good for less dollars.”

Oxford County had explored the possibility of

building a new 194-bed home in Ingersoll to replace the current satellite home in the town, but the economic reality and a likely 20 per cent tax increase on residents quashed those plans.

“Since I became a member of county council, this number stood out as a number that shouldn't be there,” said Norwich Township Mayor Jim Palmer, who added the care needs of long-term care residents have increased. “Woodingford has been a feature of Oxford County for many years.

Since its inception, the health status of those needing its services has changed. Initially, residents might have arrived walking with a cane.

Nowadays, some come directly from the hospital as a way to free up hospital beds for others.”

He added funding demands have also put financial pressure on the county.

“Standards of care are always more of everything. More hours of care per person, more expensive care equipment, and higher qualifications for employees. The list could go on. The Woodingford Lodges are in many respects tier 2 hospitals but are still funded by the County of Oxford.”

The Echo reached out to each member of county council for comment. East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer provided a statement, which was used in a story in the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette. Coun. Bernia Martin suggested we speak with the warden but no other councillors responded.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

$459,830 investment will fund Oxford County initiatives CONTINUED FROM FRONT

She added it is difficult to say how many more people OSAS will be able to serve with the injection of funding, but she expects many more will be helped.

“The number of interactions or sessions we will be able to deliver will at least double. The program was previously running with only me at four days a week and stabilized with the support of the United Way. Without them, there would have been no services.”

A major goal of the program is to increase partnerships to make services more accessible for those who have been impacted by sexual violence and also wants people to understand the services OSAS offers.

“We provide comprehensive supports, so whatever someone would require. That might be counselling or therapy, or even information. What does it mean to go to the police? What can I expect in court? What are my rights? It might be safety planning, risk assessment or advocacy. We offer medical follow-up care within our nursing teams such as STI testing, documentation and treatment of injuries,” she explained.

McCreary added the biggest message to get out to the community is the organization is there to support victims and their door is always open. Waitlists at the centre have been increasing over time and McCreary explained violent crime, including sexual assault, is on the rise along with the

number of people who need to leave the county to receive support. She added victims living in rural areas will be able to get help closer to home.

“We have such a vast, large county and it takes more than an hour to get across it, let alone having to travel to London for supports.

The centre’s funding will expire on March 31, 2027, as they found out about the grant last year but the official announcement was just made.

“The hope is we will be able to stabilize this program long-term, replicating the supports and services other communities have,” McCreary said.

“This is good news for Oxford and some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Ernie Hardeman, MPP for Oxford. “Ensuring funding for programs that support survivors of sexual assault helps provide safety, healing, and a path forward for those who need it.”

The investment is part of Ontario’s plan to better respond to violence, build safer and healthier communities, and support women’s well-being and economic opportunities through Ontario’s action plan to end gender-based violence.

“Our government is continuing to take action to end gender-based violence in all its forms,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Ser-

Woodstock Police arrest four in two city busts LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two recent busts by city police have resulted in $15,000 worth of illicit drugs and a firearm being taken off city streets.

The first trafficking investigation was led by the Drug and Intelligence Unit and resulted in the arrest of two people along with the seizure of drugs, cash and suspected proceeds of crime.

On May 15, police executed search warrants at multiple locations in Woodstock. A 43-year-old male and a 22-year-old female were arrested and jointly charged with possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a Schedule I substance, possession of property obtained by crime under $5000 and possession of a Schedule IV substance for the purpose of trafficking.

Police seized suspected fentanyl with an estimated street value of $7,500 along with quantities of suspected cocaine, Hydromorphone tablets and over $4,000 in cash.

The accused were held in custody pending a bail hearing.

The second bust came after a traffic stop was conducted on May 16 at 2:30 when patrol officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Bedi Drive and Knights Lane. The routine stop turned into a further investigation, resulting in the arrest and charging of two Kitchener men.

The pair of 32-year-old males have been charged with possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking and unauthorized possession of a weapon. Both also face separate charges under the Highway Traffic Act. Police seized cocaine with an estimated street value of $3,800, along with a quantity of cannabis, prescription pills and nearly $2,000 in cash.

Both were released from custody and are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

The Woodstock Police Service is asking anyone with information about these investigations to contact them or Crime Stoppers.

May 23, 2025

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Oxford County installing more traffic calming measures LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Oxford County is installing eight new Community Safety Zones this year.

The location of the zones was decided through an eligibility and evaluation process in consultation with area municipalities and implemented in five municipalities across the county, including two in Woodstock and Ingersoll and one in Embro.

The number of safety zones has exponentially increased over the last few years, moves coinciding with increased traffic on many county roads. Frank Gross is the county’s manager of transportation explained there aren’t many areas left where they could be implemented.

“I would say as far as county roads go, I would say yes.

We have addressed the areas where there are parks and schools, but some other areas may still be warranted based on pedestrian volumes.”

Gross added the county has a specific criteria to implement a Community Safety Zone, one that isn’t driven by the province.

“It is based on what criteria other municipalities are using. It’s a two-stage process and the first warrant is where there might be a school, recreation area, community centre, seniors home, hospital or high-pedestrian volumes.”

He added if an area meets one or more of these points, the second warrant kicks in. It looks at the factors surrounding road safety.

“We use a scoring matrix that looks at operating speeds, traffic volumes, sidewalks, percentage of trucks, the volume of pedestrians and the number of intersections. Then we give it a score and if it meets the minimum threshold, we recommend it. Ultimately, it’s county council’s decision.”

Gross explained the county hasn’t yet dug into the data to see if the current zones are making a difference when it comes to safety, speed and other factors, but he said unofficially the feedback has been positive.

“I know in talking to police they are working. Police have conducted patrols in the areas and are imposing increased fines for speeding.”

Community Safety Zones are marked by road signage and allow for increased speeding fines and are also eligible Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!

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(OXFORD COUNTY PHOTO)

Oxford County is creating eight new Community Safety Zones across the region. The measure results in increased fines for traffic offenders.

for the future application of photo radar.

“We are going to look at a potential automated speed enforcement (ASE) program in the county. These zones are eligible for photo radar under provincial regulations and more and more municipalities have implemented them,” added Gross.

County staff will be presenting a report to council before next year’s budget deliberations before any decision is made on implementing an ASE program. The Town of Caledon installed two such systems in 2023 at a cost of $641,000 which included a full-time staff member. According to a staff report, the program was likely to generate a total estimated fine revenue of $400,000, bringing the net cost down to $241,000.

“We don’t have a price we could reliably share at this point: the cost of an ASE camera would be a lease cost, not a direct purchase, and would depend on pricing received through a competitive tender and how the tender was structured,” explained Gross.

According to the province, the fines for drivers vary depending on the infraction. One to 19 km over the limit will cost $5 per km. 20 to 20 km over is $7.50 for each km, and 30 to 49 km over results in a fine of $12 per km. Each fine comes with an additional “cost” charge.

Here is a list of the other Community Safety Zones com-

ing to Oxford County: • I ngersoll: Oxford Road 10 (Ingersoll Street North) from Bell Street to Victoria Street and Oxford Road 119 (Bell Street) from Ingersoll Street North to Cashel Street • Woodstock: Oxford Road 15 (Parkinson Road) from Mill Street to Norwich Avenue, and Oxford Road 35 (Devonshire Avenue) from Vansittart Avenue to Huron Street • Tavistock: Oxford Road 24 (Hope Street West) from Woodstock Street to the 50 km/h limit West, and Hope Street East from Woodstock Street to the 50 km/h limit East • Norwich: Oxford Road 18 (Main Street West) from Florence Street to Stover Street • Embro: Oxford Road 6 (Huron Street) from John Street to Halladay Street The Community Safety Zones in Ingersoll, Tavistock, Norwich, Embro, and Oxford Road 15 (Parkinson Road) in Woodstock will be installed this month.

The zone at Oxford Road 35 (Devonshire Avenue) will be implemented once construction is completed later this year.

The county completed a review in 2022 of potential sites and implemented the first 20 in the fall of 2023. At a council meeting in February of last year, nine additional zones were approved, bringing the total to 29.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Oxford County Pride launches Pride Guide for 10th anniversary EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent

The Pride Guide for Oxford County Pride is now available and filled with a variety of events to celebrate a decade of the organization.

Oxford County Pride released a list of its 2025 events, beginning with the Pride Flag raising on May 30 at the Oxford County municipal building on 21 Reeve St. at 11:30 a.m. The group will not be travelling to the seven other municipalities for the flag raisings, but all Oxford County municipalities are expected to raise the Pride flag by noon.

“Now that it's kind of an organic thing, we’ve got the approval, we no longer have to fight for it. It should just naturally happen,” Murray said.

There will be a variety of events to follow, including church services in Ingersoll’s Trinity

United Church and Norwich United Church on June 1.

Do Good Oxford County will run a variety of creative classes, including wreath making, t-shirt decorating, and watercolour painting from May 31 to June 27. The creative centre will donate 10 per cent of class fees for the month of June to local programs supporting Oxford County’s 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.

There will also be a Pride Rainbow Storytime event with Miss Rubyyy at Early Bird Coffee on June 7.

Other Pride events include a cheese tasting with Gunn’s Hill Artisan Cheese on June 12, a Ponies and Pottery event run in partnership with the Kiln Room Ceramic and Art Studio at Transitions Encompassing Wellness on June 7, High Tea at the Crafty Corner Tea Room on

June 15, and Queer Conversations at the Woodstock and Oxford County Libraries.

The organization’s beloved Family Fun Day will return to Museum Square on June 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day will begin with Indigenous programming and will also feature performances from a variety of musicians, including Spice Girls tribute act the Spice Queens, Bigg Zee featuring Ethan Mac, Rob Cromwell, Patrick Murphy, Deshkan Ziibi, The Band You Had Me, and Kate Channer. About 50 vendors will be in attendance.

The Mardi Gras Masquerade ball will be the following Friday, June 20, at Unifor Hall with Sloppy Jo and DJ Diamond. Oxford County Pride celebrations will conclude with a Pride Trivia Night hosted by Chastity Cage and Slop-

py Jo on June 25.

"Hopefully, there will be a few more pop-up activities going on because a lot of businesses this year, which is really cool, are doing their own thing which we really absolutely love and we encourage,” Murray said.

Oxford County Pride is celebrating its 10-year anniversary, and Murray is thankful for the growing support and progression over the years.

"When I look back to when we started this with a picnic of 49 people, to the hundreds of people and hundreds of sponsors and business partners, I have to just thank this community of Oxford County and the politicians and the progression of those politicians to make these types of opportunities happen,” she added.

More information can be found by visiting https://oxfordpride.ca.

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(OXFORD PRIDE IMAGE)

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

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Handbags for Hospice, a fundraising event supporting VON Sakura House, will return Feb. 6, 2026. With the Disco Fever theme, the organization is hoping guests will show up in their sparkly attire and “Shimmer for Sakura”.

EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent

Victoria Order of Nurses (VON) Sakura House’s beloved fundraiser will return in early 2026.

VON Sakura House’s Handbags for Hospice will be held on Feb. 6, 2026, and will take attendees to the disco era with their theme Disco Fever.

“We can’t wait to see our community come out and Shimmer for Sakura,” manager of fund development, engagement, and philanthropy Brittany Bratt told the Echo. “Our theme in 2026 will be Disco Fever and it will feature lots of disco balls and shimmer!”

VON Sakura House last hosted Handbags for Hospice in 2024 and raised more than $300,000. Shimmer for Sakura will be the 12th Handbags for Hospice event.

The three main fundraising events for VON Sakura House are Handbags for Hospice, Lights of Love, and Hike for Hospice. The organization aims to fund-

raise more than a million dollars every year to provide quality end of life care for patients and support their families.

VON Sakura House is a hospice in Oxford County where patients receive round-the-clock palliative care at no cost to them. The hospice served 344 patients and their families in the past year.

“Although we are partially government funded, things like heat, hydro, groceries and maintenance are not,” Bratt said. “Our community supports us in so many ways that allow us to continue to offer quality end of life care to patients and their families.”

Tickets for the event will go on sale in October 2025. More information about Handbags for Hospice will be announced on the VON Sakura House social media pages.

The organization is also looking to recruit volunteers for the event. Anyone looking to volunteer for Handbags for Hospice can either call 519-709-8332 or send an email to oxfordgiving@von.ca.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

WDDS fashion show wows hundreds in attendance On Thursday, May 8, the Oxford Auditorium in Woodstock was filled with energy, excitement, and heart as the 7th annual Runway of Stars Fashion Show took center stage to support Woodstock and District Developmental Services (WDDS).

The event featured a dazzling lineup of community models, including first responders, local leaders, and other community stars, who walked the runway with individuals supported

by WDDS. Together, they delivered an unforgettable evening of fashion and inspiration, celebrating inclusion, community, and empowerment. Attendees enjoyed food, music,

and engaging activities throughout the night while raising essential funds for the organization.

The strong turnout and generous support underscored just how vital the organization is to countless families across Oxford County. Runway of Stars once again demonstrated the power of community spirit and the importance of supporting services that make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

WDDS is a non-profit charitable organization that has provided opportunities and support for people living with developmental disabilities in Oxford County since 1959. (RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

Amanda is getting star treatment from make-up and hair stylists.

Stars on the Runway.

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Woodstock Police briefs LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

City posts officers at Woodstock EnviroDepot The city is placing in paid duty officers to help address concerns at the depot, a move that began last Saturday.

“Misuse and unacceptable behaviour have been on the rise at the EnviroDepot, which is a concern,” said Dan Locke, the city’s director of public works.

“Some…users are blatantly disregarding what is and isn’t permitted and become abusive when staff approach them about following the rules,” he added.

The waste diversion facility at 944 James St. allows Woodstock residents to get rid of items they no longer need and divert them from the landfill. However, unlike a full landfill, only certain types of materials are accepted.

The city explained in a release that paid duty officers will be on site from time to time to provide support to staff and try to encourage compliance by users.

Those considering a trip to the EnviroDepot should know permitted items include up to five

large items, construction and renovation materials, household hazardous waste, most household electronics, large appliances and some recyclables like Styrofoam “No household garbage is allowed. All household garbage must be bagged and tagged and put at the curb for collection or taken to the Oxford County Waste Management facility at 384060 Salford Rd. No commercial vehicles are allowed (including rental trucks), only personal vehicles. Businesses and commercial vehicles must use the landfill on Salford Road,” added the release.

“The service offers convenience for Woodstock residents by saving them a trip to the landfill, but that’s not the only advantage. Diverting materials from the landfill has environmental benefits and can save taxpayers’ money by reducing tipping fees and extending the lifespan of the landfill,” said the release. “Because of the frequent abuse faced by staff, the city is seeing high staff turnover for these important roles.

Staff turnover can impact the

(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)

Const. Steve Robb spent part of his Saturday stationed at Woodstock’s EnviroDepot after the behaviour of some customers has become increasingly abusive toward staff.

level of service and cost taxpayers money,” it added.

Locke said the city’s goal is to have residents understand what they can and can’t drop off at the site.

“There is a lot of information on the website about what is and isn’t allowed so we are asking people to do a bit of homework before they show up and have to be turned away,” added Locke.

“Our staff cares about providing services for the community and are here to help but we won’t (WOODSTOCK POLICE PHOTO) tolerate abusive behaviours to- A 17-year-old driver faces an impaired driving charge after crashing into wards them.” a building at Pittock Park in Woodstock.

Young offender charged af- tween 10:53 p.m. and 11:23 p.m., activity in the area, or who may ter collision at Pittock unknown male suspects forced have security footage from the Police responded to a sin- entry into a business in the area evening of May 4, to contact ingle-vehicle collision at the en- of Peel Street and Young Street vestigators.

The Woodstock Police Service trance of Pittock Conserva- and stole two safes containing would like to encourage anytion Area on Sunday, May 18, cash and other items.

The suspects were seen leav- one having information about just before 3 a.m. They say a ing the scene in a dark-coloured, this investigation to contact the 17-year-old male lost control of Woodstock Police Service at his vehicle, crashing into the four-door Mitsubishi SUV. Police are asking anyone who 519-537-2323 or Crime Stoppers entrance kiosk and causing significant structural damage. No may have witnessed suspicious at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). one was injured as a result of the collision.

Police located the driver when they arrived and formed the opinion he was impaired by alcohol. Open alcohol was also found inside the vehicle. The driver was arrested and transported to the police station, where breath samples were obtained.

The young offender, whose name can not be released, has been charged with impaired driving.

Police release images of robbery suspects Woodstock Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance in identifying three persons of interest in connection with a break-and-enter that occurred overnight between May 4 and May 5, 2025, at a local (WOODSTOCK POLICE PHOTOS) business.

On Sunday, May 4, 2025, be- Police have released photos of suspects involved in a recent robbery at YFM in Woodstock.

Oxford Ontario Provincial Police briefs LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Caledon teen faces charges after incident in Oxford County A teenager from Caledon faces charges after being stopped for stunt driving near Woodstock.

On May 5 at 1:30 a.m., officers from the Oxford detachment of the OPP were conducting speed enforcement on Highway 401 in the Township of Blandford-Blenheim. Police say they pulled over a vehicle after it was clocked at 181 kilometers per hour.

The 17-year-old was charged with

impaired driving, failing or refusing to comply with a demand and stunt driving.

He faces a 90-day administrative driver's license suspension and the Tesla he was driving was impounded for 14 days. The teen can not be identified under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

Driver charged after single-vehicle collision An individual from the Township of

Norwich is facing charges after a commercial motor vehicle tipped over in a ditch.

Police were dispatched to Highway 59 in the township on May 3 at 2 a.m.

After an investigation, a 39-year-old Norwich Township man was charged with impaired driving and dangerous driving.

The driver was given an automatic 90-day license suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment.

The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Woodstock on June 10.

Ingersoll woman charged after public complaint An individual from Ingersoll is facing impaired driving-related charges stemming from a traffic complaint of a possible impaired driver.

On May 17, just after midnight, members of the Oxford OPP were dispatched to Thames Street North in the Town of Ingersoll. Officers located the vehicle and charged a 36-year-old Ingersoll woman with impaired driving.

She was released and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Woodstock on June 17.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

9

Pittock hosts event for Volkswagen fans Volkswagen fans from near and far gathered at Pittock Conservation Area last weekend for the annual Buses on the Thames event.

The gathering brought together a vibrant community of VW owners and enthusiasts.

Organizers encouraged attendees to fill Spruce Meadow and Trailside with as many VWs as possible, and the turnout did not disappoint. With strong interest and participation, Cedar Shores provided additional space for the overflow crowd.

Attendees enjoyed scenic walking trails with a 5-kilometre loop and various shorter paths, rented kayaks and

Shawn was an organizer for the event.

canoes, and took advantage of the public disc golf course near the dam. The Brickhouse Brewpub, located just down the street, was a popular local stop for food and drinks. This year’s event also saw the potential return of event T-shirts and even tie-dyeing activities, pending interest - a fun, nostalgic nod to the VW spirit.

As always, the emphasis remained on celebrating Volkswagen culture, with efforts focused on filling the campsites with as many vehicles as possible. The sense of community, scenic backdrop, and shared enthusiasm made Buses on the Thames 2025 a memorable success.

Weekend Quiz

(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

by Jake Grant

1. Where do waffles originate from?

6. What plant produces tequila?

2. W hat does "UEFA" stand for in the Men's UEFA Champions League soccer?

7. W ho was the second Prime Minister of Canada?

3. True or False. Peanut butter was invented in Canada.

4. What is the largest lake in Africa?

5. H ow many days are in a leap year?

8. What NHL player holds the most points in a single regular season as a Toronto Maple Leaf?

9. W hat Disney princess kisses a frog?

10. W hat kind of bird is The Ugly Duckling

This week’s answers are found on pg. 31

Perry (owner of this 1977 VW Bus), Toby, Deb, Jen and dog Ollie enjoyed the event.

Worship With Us GRAND RIVER MENNONITE CHURCH Princeton We invite you to worship with us.

Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am

Pastor 519.521.3491

CHURCH OF THE EPIPHANY Anglican Church

560 Dundas St. Woodstock 723 Dundas St., Woodstock

Holy Eucharist

Sunday mornings at 11:00 am with Rev Tony Bouwmeester Holy Eucharist followed by Bible Study Wednesday mornings at 10:00 am A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU Historic Old St.Paul’s: Celebrating 190 years

Several families enjoying Pittock Conservation Area.

Worship Services

Wednesday 10:30 a.m. followed by Coffee Hour Sunday 9:00 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. followed by Coffee Hour NEW - Saturday 6:00 p.m. followed by Coffee Hour Rev. Richard Hetke will be offering Communion.

10

May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Hoenhorst Farms to host Breakfast on the Farm with Farm and Food Care Ontario EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent

Anyone curious about dairy farming can learn more about the practices, equipment, and livestock, all while enjoying a delicious Ontario-made breakfast.

Innerkip’s Hoenhorst Farms will have Farm and Food Care Ontario’s Breakfast On the Farm come to the property on June 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will allow attendees to tour the dairy farm on 675725 16 Line RR 1, Innerkip, with opportunities like checking out tractors and farming equipment, and seeing cows walk up to Lely robots to produce milk on their own time.

Guests will also enjoy an all-Ontario-made breakfast featuring a peameal bacon, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich, apple cider, milk, asparagus and strawberries. Other farmers and more than 100 volunteers, most having an agricultural background, will also attend. Breakfast on the Farm will help Hoenhorst Farms honour 100 years of farming.

"We had wanted to open up our doors for a while to the community but realized that we need a professional team on our side to do it. So, Farm and Food Care came on and I think it's the perfect fit,” said Hoenhorst Farms owner Cox Hensink.

Wensink is a fourth-generation dairy farmer and grew up with her parents operating the farm until she took the reins.

"Dairy farming is in our DNA and so it's something to be very proud of that it's carried on in the family for this long,” she said.

Wensink said opportunities like Breakfast on the Farm educate those without agricultural backgrounds about farm practices and food production.

“People tend to be very curious about

where their food comes from and I think the questions come from a very good place,” she said. They are usually very excited when to learn there is a farm close by, and just like any business, we can't always host on-the-fly visits. We really want to reach out to the community and have a day where they could come and see how food is grown and raised in Ontario."

Farm and Food Care Ontario has several outreach programs, like the Real Dirt farming magazine, farm tours for culinary students and Farm Food 360 at fairs. Farm Food 360 is a virtual-reality program capturing 27 different farms and giving guests a chance to use VR to see what it’s like to live and work on a farm.

Christa Ormiston, communications manager for the organization, said Breakfast on the Farm events are also important in fostering connections with the agriculture industry that may not otherwise happen.

“As time continues to march on, many of us don't have the connection back to having access to a farm. Many of us had grandparents or great-grandparents who farmed, but as we move into future generations, we’re seeing less and less opportunity for people to connect with farmers and to actually step foot onto a farm, so this is a really important opportunity that really facilitates connection and engagement,” explained Ormiston.

Farm and Food Care Ontario hosts three Breakfast on the Farm events a year, with one in Norfolk County in August and another as part of Kitchener-Waterloo’s Oktoberfest events in October.

Tickets for Breakfast on the Farm are $5 for adults and free for children. More information and online ticket purchases can be found by visiting https://www.farmfoodcareon.org/breakfastonthefarm-innerkip.

(CHRISTA ORMISTON IMAGE)

Visit us online at theecho.ca Woodstock Ingersoll Echo The Woodstock Ingersoll Echo is seeking an

INGERSOLL NEWS CORRESPONDENT We are looking to hire a part-time journalist, based out of Ingersoll, to report regularly on a variety of local happenings within our Woodstock Ingersoll Echo newspaper.

Please send resume to the attention of Lee Griffi at info@theecho.ca.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Farmers, motorists urged to share the road this spring LOUIS ROESCH Director, Ontario Federation of Agriculture

Ontarians across the province are eagerly anticipating the upcoming Victoria Day long weekend which has long unofficially marked the start of a year’s camping, cottaging and summer travel season.

With the weather slowly warming up, farmers are also getting busy working their fields and planting this year’s crops. That means you’ll see more large tractors and farm equipment on the roads as farmers travel from field to field and farm to farm while they work.

Both of these milestones mean more people, vehicles and equipment will be sharing Ontario’s busy roads – and all of us must share those roads responsibly to make sure everyone gets to where they are going and home again safely.

Many drivers get frustrated when they get stuck behind a slow-moving tractor, especially if they’re in a rush. But farmers can’t always pull over; on busy urban roads, there may not be enough space to move aside safely. The same is true on rural roads, where the shoulders are often steep and narrow – and at this time of year, they can still be soft as the ground is still drying out from the spring thaw.

Farm equipment is bigger than it used to be and moves much slower than regular road traffic –no more than about 40 km an hour.

It’s estimated that approximately 8.5 million vehicles drive about 136 billion kilometres in Ontario each year. Annually, there are about 200,000 accidents, 50,000 with injury and over 500 fatalities Because of the size and comparably slow speed of farm equipment, collisions with slow moving vehicles are 5.5 times higher and result in 3.8 times more fatalities than collisions between two cars, per kilometre on the road.

Most are rear-ending collisions and passing errors, followed by head-on collisions, swerving, side-on impacts, and turning into oncoming traffic. Almost 80 per cent of collisions with slow moving vehicles happen during the day under good visibility and dry

road conditions.

I farm in Chatham-Kent in southwestern Ontario and I’m also a director on the board of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture.

We work on many issues that affect farmers and rural communities. Road safety is a big focus, as is advocating for better roads and transportation infrastructure and regulations that reflect the needs of our modern agriculture industry – one of the biggest pillars of the provincial economy.

Motorists, here’s what you can do to prevent road accidents this harvest season: • Watch out for orange triangles on the back of farm equipment. These are slow moving vehicle signs that mean we legally can’t go faster than 40 km/hour.

• Pay attention to indicator lights and remember that a gap between a slow moving vehicle and an oncoming car or truck can close very quickly.

• Be patient and pass only when it’s safe. Farm equipment is much larger than it used to be, and many rural roads have narrow shoulders that often prevent farmers from pulling off to the side safely to let motorists pass.

There are best practices for farmers operating slow moving vehicles too.

Every vehicle towing an implement must display the orange triangle slow moving vehicle sign on the back that warns drivers that they are approaching slow-moving equipment. These signs are only for equipment; attaching one to a roadside mailbox or other fixed object visible from the road is illegal.

Make sure your load doesn’t block your view or the ability for other motorists on the road to see your signal intentions.

Check your equipment carefully every day before leaving the farm, ensuring hitches, brakes, and tires are well-maintained and road ready. Make sure your lights are working properly and that your slow-moving vehicle sign is visible and secure.

And just like regular motorists, don’t be on your mobile device while driving – distracted driving is distracted driving regardless of what you’re driving!

If we all stay alert and patient, we can keep our roads safe and make sure everyone gets home safely this planting season and summer.

“I know the paper is free, but can I get a subscription anyways?”

Yes. We understand that some people might like the convenience of the Woodstock Ingersoll Echo arriving at their home (located near or far) through Canada Post, so we do have subscriptions available for this purpose.

The price for a subscription is $52 plus GST = $54.60.

To subscribe, please e-transfer granthavenmedia@gmail.com and include your full mailing address in the comments, or send a cheque with mailing address to Grant Haven Media, PO Box 2310, St. Marys, ON N4X1A2

May 23, 2025

11

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Parade wows Friendly City fans Woodstock celebrated one of its most cherished traditions on May 19, as the 77th annual Victoria Day Parade brought excitement and community spirit to the streets.

Spectators lined the new parade route to enjoy a vibrant display of marching bands, floats from local organizations and businesses, vintage cars, inflatables, entertainers, and more. Festivities continued in Southside Park after-

wards with a lively busker show and captivating performances by roaming stilt walkers.

Attendees generously contributed non-perishable food items, which were collected by volunteers along the route in support of local food programs. This year’s route was adjusted due to ongoing construction on Dundas Street and restoration work at the Southside Park pond.

(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

Members of the Elite Dance Centre strutted their stuff.

The Top Hat Marching Orchestra from Burlington put on an exciting display.

Annually, the Ingersoll Pipe Band can be counted on to put on a great performance.

It’s the best of both worlds

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Biologist warns proposed provincial changes will erode conservation efforts

13

CONNOR LUCZKA Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

For the first time in likely a century, the endangered spiny softshell turtle population increased in 2024 along the Thames River, largely due to the efforts of conservationists like Scott Gillingwater.

Gillingwater, species at risk biologist for the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA), told the Echo that last year the Southern Ontario at Risk Reptiles (SOARR) program hatched and released more than 10,000 native turtles into the region. To put that number into context, it’s estimated that there are between 2,000 and 2,500 adults in Canada. Although that is a huge amount released locally, Gillingwater clarified that only 0.1 to five per cent will survive to maturity.

The program also located, assessed, and protected dozens of endangered turtles and snakes, built new nesting, basking, foraging, and cover habitats, and installed roadside fencing to reduce reptile mortality, among other conservation efforts.

Gillingwater said that the population has not reached the same level that it was at when he started at the UTRCA 32 years ago and there is much more still to do; however, recent provincial legislative changes has him worried about the prospects of native turtles and all native animals at large.

On April 17, the Province of Ontario introduced the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, legislation that would “cut the red tape and duplicative processes that have held back major infrastructure, mining and resource development projects,” according to a news release.

"The days of making proponents wait years for approvals and permits are over,” Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, said in that same release. “We can and will build the Ontario of tomorrow in a way that protects the environment and protects jobs."

While the legislation focuses on energy and mine development, it would also make amendments to the Endangered Species Act (once touted as the “gold standard” of conservation legislation) and eventually would appeal and replace it altogether with the Species Conservation Act. In its proposal, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks said that the Endangered Species Act makes the permit process “slow and

Echo

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

An Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA) worker holds up a native turtle. Last year, a record-setting 10,000 turtles were released into the wild in an effort to curb dwindling populations in the region – and it paid off. For the first time in over a century, the population is on the rise in the watershed.

complex, causing unnecessary delays and costs for housing, transit, and critical infrastructure.”

Chiefly, the new legislation to replace it would give the government the ability to use its own discretion to add endangered and threatened species to the protected list (and could also remove species from the list) and it would redefine protections and the habitats of animal species.

No longer would the avenues species use to migrate, look for food, and winter be protected under the new act, rather only their den would be protected.

“That makes it very difficult for protection of areas where these animals are traveling to move between summer and winter sites where they're feeding,” Gillingwater said. “And also, we are still studying these species to fully understand them, and this habitat will be lost before we can say where these animals are, where these animals need to be in five years, 10 years, 100 years, due to changes in the environment. … There’re

so many concerns about how this act is being currently set out.

“We once had the gold standard for species protection in Ontario and that legislation has continuously been amended and weakened and had the teeth taken out of it,” Gillingwater went on to say. “… What we need now – under the current state of our affairs, with our world, with our climate – is better species protection. And that goes for not only species at risk, but all of our wildlife and wild spaces in general. And it's quite surprising that in this day and age that we are taking steps back. We are losing decades of progress by weakening these types of legislation.”

The Species Conservation Act would also create a new program to support voluntary activities that will assist in conservation and would increase investment into conservation, up to $20 million a year. As Gillingwater said, he does not believe that is commensurate to the erosion of species protections.

“We need more protection for these

species, not less, not weakening of legislation, and we need more funding to do this work,” Gillingwater said. “So that amount of funding should have been put forward without reducing protections to species at risk. Sure, additional funding is great, but if you're reducing protections you're going to need far more, tenfold more, than what is being presented.”

When asked if he has hope for 2025 and beyond, Gillingwater said he has been working in the region for 32 years, since the mid-90s, and he’s seen it all.

Throughout that time, he has identified as either an optimistic pessimist or a pessimistic optimist.

“I will say that the pessimism it starting to creep up a little higher than my optimism,” Gillingwater said. “I still have hope.”

The consultation period for the proposed Species Conservation Act, where residents can submit a comment to the province, ends on May 17. Residents can find more information here: https://ero. ontario.ca/notice/025-0380.

Contribute to your local community newspaper! Send articles, sports or event recaps, and photos to info@theecho.ca

14

May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Local Business Spotlight

Oxford County celebrates its first-ever Master Chef LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

History has been made in Oxford County as Chef Philippe Coeurdassier has been officially recognized as a Master Chef.

Born in France, Chef Philippe honed his culinary skills in Michelin-starred restaurants under the guidance of the legendary Chef Guy Savoy. Although he cherished his time in his home country, his adventurous spirit led him to travel the world, gaining diverse culinary insights before settling in Ontario with his family.

For nearly two years, Chef Philippe has been leading the culinary team at the Elm Hurst Inn. Recognized as a Maître Cuisiniers de France - one of the highest honors in French gastronomy Chef Philippe remains motivated by his ultimate dream - earning a place in the Michelin Guide. “It would be a proud moment for everyone here. It is a dream of any chef from my country. We have more passion to cook and our blood is full of food. I will have to research it and work very hard.”

To earn the honour, he needed two current Maître Cuisiniers de France, or “godfathers” as he called them, to nominate him for the award.

“They needed to have worked with me in the past and give a good reference.”

He lived in Scarborough for several years, but decided the city was getting too dangerous, and looked southwest for a new career and a new home.

“My wife is from this area and my brother-in-law is in London so we decided to move there and I found a job in Stratford at Mercer Hall. When I was done work, I wanted to get home as soon as possible and I did get some speeding tickets. Then I found the Elm Hurst.”

Chef Philippe explained he has a great team at the Elm Hurst, something that starts with the relationship he has with the Director of Food and Beverage, Sergio Dell’Osso.

“It’s a fun story. Chef and I were seamen and both worked for cruise lines so the ideas and the mentality of strong backbones and diversity as well, so helped connect on our first interactions,” said Dell’Osso. “His knowledge of food, along with cost control and system implementation, we can see the positive results.”

(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)

Elm Hurst Inn Chef Philippe Coeurdassier, left, has been officially recognized as a Master Chef. He and the Director of Food and Beverage, Sergio Dell’Osso, work together to ensure a high-quality dining experience.

Dell’Osso said Chef Philippe creates a dish, then the numbers are crunched to deliver a unique dining experience and at the same time offer it at a reasonable cost. The pair have discussed adding a chef’s table event down the road and have done a few spirit tastings to match a special menu. They are also researching a wine tasting experience. “(The chef’s table) would be fun for me. You don’t know what you eat and I don’t know what I make,” quipped Chef Philippe, who added every time a new menu comes out, his goal is to grow as a restaurant. He added the Elm Hurst also prepares its own desserts.

“I teach the staff to make them. I teach them to do as much as possible.”

Teaching is something Chef Philippe is required to do as a Master Chef, and it is something on his radar.

“Sometimes I see kids from schools who come to work for us and I see the

school was not good for them. When they finish, they already think they are chefs. In my country, we make the kids make an omelette, and if it's not what we expect, they don’t have a job.”

He took his first job in a kitchen in France where he learned under the guidance of a Michelin star chef as he learned the basics, including vegetable preparation.

“How to peel potatoes, peel onions, and work those things. I had no idea.

The chef saw me doing it well and then I was able to do a little bit more in the kitchen. I had to grow and study every day to get to where I am right now.

Even with 40 years of experience, I still study. If you don’t learn as a chef, you are in the wrong business.”

The pair are committed to continuous quality improvement and have regular conversations to ensure guests are receiving an experience they want to have

again.

“We always review the service and even if everything was successful, we still talk to see areas where we could improve,” explained Dell’Osso.

Chef Philippe has called Canada home since 1993, making stops in Parry Sound, Toronto, Whistler, and Vancouver, along with stints in Mexico, California and New York.

His recognition is expected to elevate Oxford County’s reputation in the culinary world, attracting food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs alike.

“We are incredibly proud of Chef Philippe and his contribution to our culinary scene,” said Meredith Maywood, Tourism Specialist from Tourism Oxford. “This is a momentous occasion for Philippe, The Elm Hurst Inn and Spa, and Oxford County. We look forward to seeing the continued impact of Philippe’s talent and dedication.”

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Local Business Spotlight

15

Woodstock Butcher Shop supplies city with high quality meats LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The City of Woodstock has been without a butcher shop for several years, but that hole has been filled by K and H Meats. The operation is owned and operated by Kevin and Helen Cooper, hence the name K and H. “It all started when our kids collectively bought me a small electric smoker for Father's Day several years ago.

After using it for some time, I realized I was hooked on smoking. Everything from meat to fish to eggs,” explained Kevin‘s love of the art of smoking only increased once his tool of the trade was upgraded.

“It was in the summer of 2020 when my wife surprised me with a new pellet smoker that was much bigger than the small electric one. From there, my passion for smoking grew and grew and grew. Sunday's dinner usually meant something smoked on the smoker, and brisket or spare ribs were big hits.”

The couple stopped at a butcher shop just outside of Toronto in the fall of 2023, and that’s when the idea hit them

Interior of the shop.

both.

“Helen and I looked at each other and said simultaneously, we should open a butcher shop. It was a light bulb moment for both of us! It was then we started looking for a location. We first visited 285 Queen Street, our current location, in January of 2024 and decided the building was big enough to house our construction company (Coops Construction) and a retail space for a butcher shop,” said Kevin.

From there, the couple began planning K and H Meats.

“The interior of the building was in poor condition and needed a lot of work. Luckily, I knew the right company for the job - Coops Construction.

The building was occupied at the time and wouldn’t be vacant until June. The renovations started then and took four months to complete.”

The top goal of the business is to purchase from local suppliers whenever possible.

“We strive to buy all our meats and products from local companies like Norpac Beef, Norfolk Packers, Poultry Specialties, Great Canadian Honey,

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)

Kevin and Helen Cooper own and operate K and H Meats in Woodstock. The couple are seen here at the recent Sip and Sample event held in the city.

Big Stooley's sauces and Miners Maple products, which is a family relative from Kemble, Ontario.”

Keven added all their beef is grass fed during the spring, summer and autumn months and fed a diet of dried grasses through the winter months, which makes it true to its form and produces the best beef available in Ontario.

K and H Meats opened on October 1 of 2024 and offer fresh cuts of meat along with custom flavored pork sausages and some frozen items like vegetables, French fries and chicken fingers.

“We also have hot lunches available Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pulled brisket on a bun or pulled pork on a bun with a side of smoked mac and cheese. $12.00 for the brisket and $10.00 for the pork. The response to the hot lunches has been extremely great and we are seeing many regulars week after week. Both Helen and I have our food handlers certificate and our store is health board approved,” he added.

They have also added a new item to the lunch menu. The beef melt has thin-

ly sliced roast beef on a brioche bun topped with Cheddar cheese. Two sell for $12.00.

While some family-run businesses can pose challenges, Kevin explained he and his wife have found a way to keep out of each other’s way.

“Helen and I run the store together as a well-oiled machine. She's in charge of the front of the house ( the retail area) and I am in charge of the back of the house, butchering and smoking the meat. As long as we stay in our lanes, there will be no divorce,” he joked.

Helen explained the pair are committed to the city and have deep roots in it.

“We are both born and raised in Woodstock and have a love for our community. Kevin has owned and operated Coops Construction for over 30 years. I have over 10 years working in the food industry and bring customer service experience.

“Follow us on Facebook or stop by the store and say hello,” she added.

The store is located at 285 Queen Street in Woodstock.

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

SPORTS

CASS Knights celebrate inaugural fully sanctioned TVRA girls’ softball game with a victory JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent

Beyond a historic first delivery, Woodstock College Avenue (CASS) Knights starting pitcher Morgan Howard put two scoreless innings into the books en route to an inaugural 10-1 Thames Valley Regional Athletics (TVRA) Regan Division Girls’ Fast Pitch victory over the Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers.

“Super exciting,” said Howard May 9 at Southside Park’s East Diamond. “It was a good start to our season. The girls played well on the bench and in the field. A good group, attitude-wise and talent too.”

Girls’ fast pitch or softball’s transition to an officially sanctioned team sport has taken several years, says CASS coach Ryan Stafford, noting its three-team origins as club ball several years ago. It has grown to 18 TVRA schools divided into three tiered divisions named after area softball players or builders of note: (Sue) Regan (Tier I), (Amy) Pitcher (Tier II) and (Rebecca) Goudy (Development Tier), respectively.

Last year, the Knights captured the TVRA title, finishing second to a Guelph team in an Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations (OFSAA) ‘Festival’ championship.

Stafford is both excited and pleased with the sport’s pro-

gression to full sanctioning and its own OFSAA event.

“We’re hoping to come with a bang and take it,” said Howard.

The TVRA girls fast pitch journey fittingly opened at Southside Park, home to what Stafford proudly states are the best diamonds in Canada.

Howard and her younger sister McKenzie play outside their high school program with the Waterloo Ghosts, two of seven Tier I club players on the Knights roster.

“They dedicate all their time to this sport and it shows,” said Stafford.

Tier I players from the Ghosts and other programs including the London Lightning, Lucan-Ilderton and UTM2K7 are sprinkled throughout the TVRA’s three divisions, a list including Stafford’s daughter Rylee and Blue Bombers catcher Jorja Kloepfer.

“Jorja is one of the best hitters in Canada,” Stafford credited. “She’s so good.”

“Some of them are absolute bangers,” Morgan Howard agreed. “They can hit.”

However, she got through her two innings of work with four strikeouts, backed up on the mound by Chloe Jones (two innings, five strikeouts), McKenzie Howard (one inning of work, two K’s) and closer Hannah Ryksen, who recorded one strikeout during the sixth and final frame.

“The energy was great on the bench,” said Ryksen.

Offensively, College Avenue’s Payton Jones was 2 for 3 at the plate with three RBI, the Howard sisters and Ryksen all helping their shared cause with 2 for 3 performances.

IDCI pitcher/shortstop Erin Plaquet went 2 for 3 at the plate, Kloepfer scoring the Blue Bombers run.

“Honestly, we did better than I expected for the first game,” admitted IDCI pitcher/1B Ella Riddick, whose club team plays out of Tavistock.

“The majority are grade nines,” added Plaquet.

Their goals include winning and improving as a team, along with enjoying playing with and against players they’ve met through club competition, as well as reconnecting with those they haven’t seen since earlier minor ball.

“It’s fun to play with girls you haven’t played with for a while,” said Riddick.

The TVRA regular season is scheduled to close out on May 26 with playoffs and ultimately, OFSAA to follow.

Woodstock CI Red Devils 10, Aylmer East Elgin Eagles 9 A see-saw battle got off to a quick start with WCI leading 5-3 after an inning. Aylmer rebounded to take the lead in the top of the fourth, the Red Devils responding in the home fourth on Alexis Schaefer’s game-winning RBI double,

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

IDCI’s Simone Janess slides safely into second despite the best efforts of CASS shortstop/pitcher Chloe Jones (left) and second baseman/pitcher Morgan Howard (right).

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

College Avenue right fielder Arianna Pastoor (left) makes it safely back to the bag against Ingersoll DCI third baseman Simone Janess (right).

plating Kate Gottachalk with the decisive run.

“It was an excellent way to start the season, a fantastic close game,” said WCI coach Martha Trepanier.

TVRA Girls’ Fast Pitch May 14 CASS 13, London St. Thomas Aquinas 2 Woodstock CI 13, London Central 7 Woodstock Huron Park 5,

London Oakridge 4 May 12 CASS 11, Arva Medway 5 Woodstock Huron Park 6, London Clarke Road 2 London AB Lucas 4, IDCI 3 London Mother Theresa 7, Woodstock CI 5 May 9 CASS 10, IDCI 1 Woodstock CI 10, Aylmer East Elgin 9 Lord Dorchester 5, Woodstock Huron Park 0

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Aylmer East Elgin’s Makayla Zylstra makes it safely across first base as Woodstock CI first baseman Grace Piper gets low to make the catch.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

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Hamilton tries, tries and tries again in narrow girls’ rugby defeat JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Rain didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of either girls’ rugby squad as the Woodstock Huron Park Huskies battled the homefield Tillsonburg Gemini.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo named official media sponsor of the Woodstock Lakers

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo The Echo is pleased to announce an agreement to be an official media sponsor of the Woodstock Lakers hockey club. The team and league are committed to being strong community partners, something that fits in with our values as a newspaper in Oxford County. We will promote and cover the team’s home games throughout the season and highlight the good work of players and team officials off the ice.

It was not ideal weather for photography.

Rain, intermittently heavy at times under dark skies, made both lighting and protecting delicate electronic equipment challenging.

But it wasn’t bad for rugby and when Woodstock Huron Park Husky Ema-Leigh Hamilton broke free for her third try of the day, she was ready for her moment.

“It’s like OK, if this was being recorded, this would be my snapshot highlight,” Hamilton smiled after her third and final scoring dive in a narrow 22-17 TVRA Varsity Girls’ Rugby defeat to the homefield Tillsonburg Gemini on May 13.

Hamilton did not mind playing in the rain, which may have contributed to at times more slippery field conditions, benefitting her explosive breakaway speed.

“It kind of cools me down,” she explained of the precipitation.

Regardless of the weather, Hamilton was also looking forward to the Huskies final regular season game, up against a Tillsonburg team she described as good competition.

“Whatever it was, like a learning experience or a win, I knew it was going to be good.”

The game played out well, a balanced affair between two determined squads. Hamilton’s third try of the day, breaking through the Gemini defence on the right side with a burst of speed, tied the game up late in the second half.

The home side was able to regain possession, however, driving determinedly down the field for a late try which took away the victory, if not a sense of satisfaction.

“It’s just fun,” said Huron Park’s Reagan White, a first-year player who has found her sport, one she loves. The Huskies came close to at least a tie on the day she said, a shared team effort.

“We also ran through a lot of tackles, just like running hard.”

Huron Park’s 1-3 regular TVRA season included a 25-10 win over crosstown rival Woodstock CI Red Devils, as well as a lot of shared growth, said White.

“I feel like we may not have won, but we kind of won as a team. From our starting players to our extra players, all of the girls

grew as a team.”

“Very happy,” agreed Huron Park coach Brandon Thomas, particularly pleased with the ongoing development of a young roster.

“I think that was the most complete game we’ve played,” he assessed. “It’s nice to see the group learn and progress with the season.”

Finishing fourth in the Jill McCallum division, the Huskies season will continue with TVRA Cup playoffs, opening on the road Thursday, May 22 at noon against the Arva Medway Cowboys.

“And go from there,” Thomas concluded.

TVRA Varsity Girls’ Rugby May 13 Tillsonburg Gemini 22, Woodstock Huron Park 17 St. Thomas St. Joe’s 20, Woodstock CI 0 May 8 St. Joe’s 32, Huron Park 15

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Huron Park’s Reagan White gains possession off a line-out during TVRA girls rugby competition in Tillsonburg.

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Warriors qualify for TVRA boys’ soccer championship, WOSSAA AA draw JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent

Technically, the kicks were designated ‘free.’

But the skill which put them into the back of the Parkside net did not come easily.

“Tommy’s foot is golden,” said Woodstock St. Mary’s Warriors boys’ soccer coach Valerie Popovich after Tommy Walker scored twice and added an assist on the offensive end of a 4-0 Thames Valley Regional Athletics (TVRA) semi-final team victory over the visiting St. Thomas Parkside Stampeders Thursday, May 15 at Cowan Park.

The win was doubly important, locking up berths in both the TVRA championship game Wednesday, May 21, and the Western Ontario Secondary Schools Athletic Associations (WOSSAA) AA draw the following Wednesday in London.

“We played our game,” summed up Warriors centre-back Maxwell Odumodu. “A lot of ball movement, strong mid and fast wings.

“Play it into the nine, drop it into the midfield and find a winger.”

Although more even in balance of play, the Warriors exited the first half up 2-0, Walker scoring the opening goal on a well-struck free kick the Parkside goalie got a hand on.

“It was a deflection,” said Walker. “Top left sort of thing.”

St. Mary’s made it 2-0,

Hunter van den Akker tapping in a Walker corner.

The Warriors increasingly controlled play during the second half, a pattern established throughout their 2025 season.

“It’s not a gameplan, but we’re able to keep it up,” said Pye. “The intensity goes up as the game goes.”

The Stampeders were unable to muster sustained pressure, however with both finals on the line, the Warriors coaching staff was pleased to see Walker notch the game’s third goal off a free kick near midfield. The deft strike caught the Stampeders goalie off his line and may have been assisted by a trailing breeze, but Warriors coach Vanessa Pye remained convinced the result was one Walker fully planned.

“He meant to do that for sure.”

“I think we both started to breathe a little easier,” Popovich added.

The Warriors rounded the four-nil final in the game’s final ten minutes on a quick transition from offence to defence. Odumodu headed a long ball from danger, moved quickly to the left wing through Caleb Allard, and into the middle of the field for a deft touch forward to Kingston McPherson from Mateus Fortuna, who shortly before, had fired a glorious chance over the bar. Running onto the pass well in the clear with speed, McPherson made a quick shift, tapping the ball into the resultantly wide-open

side of the Parkside net.

“Kingston got the nice goal,” credited Fortuna.

In the other TVRA semi-final, St. Thomas St. Joe’s Rams downed Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers by a 3-0 margin, booking their ticket for a 12-noon championship at Cowan Park.

The Warriors finished the regular TVRA season undefeated, a 1-1 draw against the Woodstock CI Red Devils the only blemish on a perfect campaign. In their regular-season meeting Thursday, May 1 against St. Joe’s, the Warriors prevailed by a 4-1 margin in the Ram’s only loss of the season.

“We have to keep ‘low heads’, we beat them by a lot,” said Odumodu of the required team attitude heading into the post-season rematch.

“Got them easy last game, started off 3-0,” added Warriors defender Travis Martens, noting the focus will be on playing a strong game, keeping fouls and complaining to officials to a minimum.

“A nice team game and playing hard.”

“I would just say, keep playing our game,” Pye agreed in conclusion.

Woodstock CI 6, Tillsonburg Glendale 0 The Woodstock CI (WCI) Red Devils closed out their regular 2025 TVRA season with a comparative offensive explosion Thursday, May 8 at the Tillsonburg Soccer Park.

Everett Carne finished with a hat-trick, Josh Cook, Elisha

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

The Woodstock CI Red Devils closed out their regular season with a 6-0 victory on the road in Tillsonburg.

Dee and Noah Clements adding singles.

On a day when there were ample goals and good humour to go around, the latter, regularly playing on the back defensive line, was taking some good-natured ribbing about a rare scoring shot which may have been as much six-yard tap-in as 16-yard cracker.

“It’s a bit harsh,” Clements smiled. “A goal’s a goal, doesn’t matter if it went in by an inch or a mile.”

The Red Devils finished with an undefeated 3-0-2 won-lost-tied record, good enough for third place in final standings and a berth in the WOSSAA A draw Wednesday, May 28th at Cowan Park.

WCI opens against Huron

Perth’s second seed at 9 a.m. on BMO field, playing at 1 p.m. in either the gold or bronze medal game depending on result.

The 1-3-1 WCI girls’ soccer team also qualified for the WOSSAA A tournament at Cowan Park, opening at 11 a.m. against Huron Perth #2 on BMO field. The girls’ gold and bronze medal games are scheduled to follow at 3 p.m.

TIER II Finals Woodstock Huron Park and Tillsonburg Glendale close out TVRA South East post-season action, scheduled to meet in the Tier I girls’ championship game Wednesday, May 21 at 12 noon at Huron Park.

The Woodstock College Avenue Knights will contest the boys’ Tier II championship game against Lord Dorchester, also Wednesday, May 21 at Cowan Park, scheduled to kick off at 2 p.m.

TVRA South East Boys’ Soccer Thursday, May 15 Semi-Finals St. Mary’s 4, Parkside 0 St. Joe’s 3, IDCI 0 Wednesday, May 14 Lord Dorchester 6, Woodstock Huron Park 1 Tuesday, May 13 Parkside 3, Glendale 0 IDCI 4, Aylmer East Elgin 1 (JEFF TRIBE PHOTO) Thursday, May 8 St. Mary’s forward Kingston McPherson (centre) is challenged successfully without a foul inside the box by Parkside deWoodstock CI 6, Glendale 0 fender Liam Langley, but would subsequently score his team’s fourth goal.

East Elgin 3, Huron Park 0 Tuesday, May 6 WCI 1, St. Mary’s 1 IDCI 4, Glendale 0 Monday, May 5 St. Joe’s 3, IDCI 2 East Elgin 3, CASS 1 Huron Park 6, Dorchester 5 TVRA South East Girls’ Soccer Wednesday, May 14 Tier II Semi-Finals Glendale 6, CASS 2 Huron Park 5, St. Thomas Central Elgin 1 Tuesday, May 13 Quarter-Finals East Elgin 4, St. Mary’s 0 St. Joe’s 4, IDCI 0 Thursday, May 8 Huron Park 7, CASS 2 Tuesday, May 6 WCI 4, St. Mary’s 0 Monday, May 5 Huron Park 4, Central Elgin 0 IDCI 3, CASS 0 Thursday, May 1 St. Joe’s 4, St. Mary’s 0 Dorchester 3, WCI 0 Wednesday, April 30 Huron Park 2, Glendale 2 WCI 1, East Elgin 1 Parkside 4, St. Mary’s 0 Monday, April 28 CASS 4, Central Elgin 0 IDCI 1, Glendale 0 Wednesday, April 23 Dorchester 4, St. Mary’s 0 Glendale 5, CASS 1

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

IDCI’s Plaquet batting 1.000 for on-base/ base-stealing percentages

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(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Ingersoll’s Colton Cameron (right) slides safely back into first ahead of a pickoff attempt.

JEFF TRIBE Echo Correspondent

Statistically, Brandon Plaquet’s 2025 on-base percentage against the Tillsonburg Gemini is 1.000 and he boasts a perfect base-stealing record.

Which is to say, for a relief pitcher who does not make many plate appearances and may not appear to be a threat to run when he does, a walk and subsequent theft of second base were Ingersoll DCI Blue Bombers highlights through a 10-3 Thames Valley Regional Athletics (TVRA) varsity baseball loss to Glendale Gemini on May 8 at Sam Lamb Field in Tillsonburg.

Earning a base on balls as a late-inning pinch-hitter, Plaquet took a generous lead off first base, enhanced by a home team enjoying a comfortable lead’s decision to play behind the runner rather than hold him on. Depending on one’s point of view, Plaquet either took the bait or accepted the challenge, dashing 90 feet with a visitors’ dugout-pleasing slide safely into second, gaining him applause all around.

“Got wheels somewhere, eh?” he smiled after the game. “A little turbo in the tank.”

In the following game on May 12 at Woodstock’s Tip O’Neil Field against the Woodstock CI Red Devils, Plaquet was back on more familiar ground, entering the game to record a onepitch relief appearance

that successfully preserved a tight score. His Blue Bombers teammates responded by scratching out enough runs to take a 5-4 lead that would stand up as an IDCI victory.

“I think technically, Brandon is the winning pitcher of record,” said Blue Bombers co-coach Tyler Neeb, pleased to see a senior team leader rewarded for his - albeit brief - outing and longer contributions.

“He’s been a really reliable guy on the mound and a great presence on the bench. He keeps morale up.”

In a nutshell, those two events characterized IDCI’s 2025 TVRA baseball regular season - a young roster holding its collective head high while celebrating its share of smaller victories rather than focusing on its win-loss record.

“It’s definitely a rebuilding year,” said Neeb.

The TVRA season is a short, comparatively compressed schedule whose seven games provide more of an additional baseball outlet than an in-school development program. Of the 20 hopefuls who attended IDCI tryouts, all have previous baseball experience from house league to elite levels.

“It’s really taking the pieces you happen to have at your school and putting together what you can,” said Neeb.

A majority of this year’s roster is in grade 9 or 10, stepping up to fill the cleats

from last year’s graduating class. The TVRA has Tier I and Tier II options, but IDCI unanimously chose to compete at the loop’s highest level.

“They all collectively voted to be as competitive as we could,” said Neeb.

An Ingersoll native, Neeb was a shortstop and pitcher within his home community and with the AAA London Badgers program, beginning an enjoyable three-year run with IDCI’s baseball team in Grade 11. He played briefly with the Brock Badgers before moving on to senior baseball in Tillsonburg and to this day, enjoys the sport with former high school teammates.

“I hope these guys have that same experience.”

Neeb and co-coach Rob Libman, who also enjoyed his own playing and umpiring career, strive to put the student part of student-athlete first. They also want to be as competitive as possible in a framework of shared playing time, an opportunity to try new positions and experiencing varsity high school’s broader range of ages than typically exists on club teams.

“I think it’s good to expand some of their horizons.”

IDCI has a scheduled playoff game at Tip O’Neil Park against Lord Dorchester on May 20 at 10 a.m.

Regardless of that contest’s outcome, Neeb looked back on seasonal highlights, including keeping things relatively

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

IDCI’s Grayson Minielli slides home safely as Tillsonburg Gemini relief pitcher Carver Schott covers the plate.

close against an undefeated Tillsonburg squad, the win against WCI, like the Blue Bombers, a young squad without a large draw, and importantly, individual and collective development across the regular season.

“We’ve got a promising team in the coming years,” he concluded.

TVRA Varsity Baseball May 15 Woodstock St. Mary’s 10, Aylmer East Elgin 2 May 14 Lord Dorchester 1, Woodstock CI 0 Woodstock College Avenue 8, St. Thomas Parkside 7 May 13 Woodstock Huron Park 11, Ingersoll 3 East Elgin 10, St. Mary’s 3 May 12 Ingersoll 5, WCI 4 Tillsonburg 7, College Avenue 4 May 9 Dorchester 11, College Avenue 1 May 8 Tillsonburg 10, IDCI 3 St. Thomas St. Joe’s 7, Huron Park 3 May 7 Woodstock CI 4, Huron Park 0 St. Mary’s 10, Central Elgin 0 Huron Park 11, College Avenue 2

College Avenue 12, WCI 2 May 5

St. Thomas Parkside 11, IDCI 1

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Blue Bombers third baseman Declan Minielly successfully tracks a fly ball into foul territory to record the out.

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

Monster Trucks thunder into Woodstock Fairgrounds The event took place on Saturday, May 17, and delivered an explosive day of high-flying excitement as the Monster Trucks All Out Tour returned bigger and louder than ever.

Fans from across the region packed into the fairgrounds for two adrenaline-charged outdoor shows, where iconic Canadian Monster Trucks tore across the dirt in jaw-dropping displays of speed and power. BUCKING BRONCO, OUTFOXED, CANADIAN CRUSHER, and the much-anticipated debut of ROBOSHARK left crowds cheering with every jump, crash, and wheelie.

The morning and afternoon shows

kicked off with Pit Parties, giving fans of all ages a rare chance to meet the drivers, snap photos, get autographs, and stand face-to-tire with the massive machines. VIP ticket holders were treated to an exclusive early-access experience, including a souvenir lanyard and up-close time with the trucks and drivers.

Spectators were also treated to heart-pounding Freestyle Motocross performances, with professional FMX riders launching three stories high and executing gravity-defying aerial stunts that left the crowd gasping and applauding.

(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

Families had the opportunity to take memorable photos.

ROBOSHARK makes its appearance.

Thrilling display of FMX Rider launching to three stories in the air.

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Pittock hosts water festival Families from across Oxford County came together on the evening of May 15 for an unforgettable experience at Family Night, hosted at the Pittock Conservation Area as part of the Oxford Children’s Water Festival.

Running from 5 to 8 p.m., the free event offered a perfect blend of education and entertainment, engaging children and youth with hands-on activities focused on the importance of water conservation.

Event highlights included: • Water-themed activity stations where children explored the science and significance of water through interactive learning.

• Canoeing on Pittock Reservoir, giving attendees a chance to paddle on the scenic waters.

• Live birds of prey shows by the Canadian Raptor Conservancy, thrilling the crowd with up-close encounters and soaring performances.

• Community partner booths, where local environmental organizations shared resources and tips on protecting our water.

• Big trucks on display, giving curious kids a chance to see (and sometimes climb aboard) impressive work vehicles.

• Food trucks that served up a tasty variety of treats,

Volunteers aiding with the event were Karen, Karlee, Tracy, Linda and April.

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making it a night to remember for both kids and adults.

Organizers were thrilled with the turnout and the enthusiasm shown by participants of all ages. “This event is all about making learning fun and engaging for young people, while helping families connect with the natural world around them,” said one organizer. “We were so excited to see the community come together to celebrate and learn about water in such an interactive way.”

The Oxford Children’s Water Festival continues its mission to inspire future stewards of the environment— one splash at a time.

(RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

Liam and Todd give last-minute canoeing instructions to Emily, Rayma and Thomas.

TAVISTOCK MEN’S CLUB

FISH FRY Wednesday June 4, 2025 Serving 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

TAVISTOCK MEN’S CLUB HALL Pickerel Dine-in or Take Out Adults $30 Children (Ages 6-12) $15 Tickets available at Men's Club Hall, 78 Woodstock St., N Every Wednesday (starting May 8) 4-7 pm, Saturday 11-2 pm or from Club members or call 519-655-3573 or email: info@tavistockmensclub.ca

Jordan, Kiera and Kerrie watch Isaac use an antique washer ringer.

Portion of profits to Tavistock Community Health fundraiser

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Southside Park hosts annual midway

Call to Compare Owned & Operated by the Glendinning Family

Woodstock residents and visitors celebrated the unofficial kickoff to summer over the Victoria Day weekend with a fun-filled midway and the 77th annual Victoria Day Parade. From Thursday, May 15 to Monday, May 19, Southside Park was home to the World’s Finest Shows Midway.

The event offered a variety of amusement rides, carnival games, and classic midway food. It provided entertainment

for all ages and marked the return of one of Woodstock’s most anticipated seasonal attractions.

Attendees were also invited to support the community by bringing non-perishable food items. The City of Woodstock extends its sincere thanks to all who attended and supported the event, with special appreciation to sponsors including Zehrs Woodstock and the Lions Club of Woodstock. (RON YUZARK PHOTOS)

Since 2008

Since 2013

Shahmeer was excited to drive on this ride.

We are close by when you need us the most Our team understands how difficult funeral expenses may be on families financially. We offer funeral services that are affordable enough to meet the needs of every family while also taking into account their particular financial circumstances.

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Owners Jeff & Michelle Glendinning

Our Directors Robert Rivest Madison Kraeker Dave Nancekievill Jeff Glendinning

For the little ones, there were many rides to choose from.

McBeath-Dynes Funeral Home 246 Thames St. S., Ingersoll, ON N5C 2T7 519-425-1600 www.mcbeathdynes.ca

Smith-LeRoy Funeral Home 69 Wellington St. N., Woodstock, ON N4S 6P7 www.smithleroy.com

Thousands of people took in the weekend-long event.

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

23

Chris Koster to perform at concert fundraiser for MS EMILY STEWART Echo Correspondent

Singer-songwriter Chris Koster, formerly of rock band The Glorious Sons, will stop by Woodstock on June 13 and perform to raise money for families living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Koster will perform an acoustic set at Unifor Hall on 126 Beale St. starting at 8 p.m., with doors opening one hour prior. The singer-songwriter released his latest EP, Color of the Night in November 2024.

“I think the actual evening will be fun both to listen to his music and to listen to some of his stories about life on the road as a rock star and he's a pretty engaging individual and a very accomplished musician so it'll be a fun night on those fronts and the proceeds go to a very good cause for MS,” said event organizer Tony DeJohn.

DeJohn and his wife Leslie Armstrong-DeJohn held 25 fundraising Walks for MS over the past 28 years. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there were three of those years without a fundraising walking event. They met with other residents and discussed changes to fundraising strategies.

“Then a light bulb went off. I contacted Chris to see if we could hire him to play a show for us - where he would play music, as well as share

his tales from the road,” Armstrong-DeJohn said to the Echo.

She added fundraising efforts should change with donor’s capacity.

“I feel that due to the large number of fundraising campaigns out there, people are not only experiencing donor fatigue but are leading busier lives and may not have the time to participate in ways that they did in the past,” she said. “So, we are changing things up.”

Both DeJohn’s father and sister passed away from complications due to MS. His father was diagnosed when DeJohn was young, and his sister was just 14 years old when she received the diagnosis. DeJohn’s father lived in Parkwood Memorial Hospital for the last 20 years, and his sister lived in assisted living.

Growing up, DeJohn accompanied his father to Woodingford Lodge for swims run by the MS Society of Oxford County support group.

"We used to go swimming once a week and I got to meet, at that point, some of the members of the Oxford County chapter of the MS Society,” he said.

After his sister’s diagnosis, DeJohn was asked by the organization to volunteer.

"I was one very young person amongst a group of seniors that was pret-

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ty dedicated to raising money and stuff, so it was good” he added.

DeJohn was a board member for Oxford’s chapter for 30 years until the MS Society of Canada restructured and closed the local chapter. Fundraisers like the upcoming concert with Koster will support ongoing research.

"Some of these research studies span many, many years and those continue to need funding,” DeJohn said.

“I know historically a good portion of the funds that are raised go towards research and ultimately research to find a cure."

He also said raising funds covers the cost of assistive devices and accommodations for people living with MS, such as grab bars, washroom renovations, and widening door frames.

"It's a broad range of things, but effectively it's providing money for assistive devices that are outside the budget of somebody that's going through this,” DeJohn explained. “We weren't flushed with money growing up and my father benefitted from those kind of things as well like canes and walkers and wheelchairs and

those kinds of things were all part of the program."

(LESLIE ARMSTRONG-DEJOHN IMAGE)

Tickets are $22.60 in advance and $25 at the door. To purchase tickets

online, visit https://tinyurl.com/chris-kosterms-fundraiser-tix.

PUT YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR HOUSE IS Keep your dollars in Canada to strengthen communities and support local businesses, including your local newspaper.

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: Torremolinos: a perfect home base on the Costa del Sol

PAUL KNOWLES Echo Contributor

You probably read about the massive power outage in southern Europe a few weeks ago. Most of Spain and Portugal, and parts of southern France, lost all electrical power for almost 24 hours.

Now, for folks in eastern Ontario who lost power for days – some even more than a week – during the recent ice storm, that probably doesn’t sound like much. I grant that.

The reason I took note was the we had just spent a lovely three weeks in southern Spain. We flew to Lisbon, Portugal, then to Malaga, Spain and finally took a coach to Torremolinos, our home away from home for three weeks. All of those cities were affected by the blackout.

It left me thinking about what our vacation would have been like, in those circumstances. Airports were shut down. The hotels would have had no power (we were on the eighth floor of a seaside hotel). Food services would have been non-existent.

So… we were lucky. No such disasters struck, and we were able to

Flamenco!

enjoy our first-ever experience of Spain, specifically, of the Costa del Sol. I have already written a couple of articles, arising from day trips we took to other Spanish cities – and the British enclave of Gilbraltar – during our time there. This week, I am focusing only on our home base, Torremolinos.

And I will admit, Torremolinos is a good spot to use as a home base, as long as you have trips to other destinations planned as part of your stay. Because there are few outstanding attractions in Torremolinos. It is, rather, kind of a tourists’ bedroom community.

That may sound boring, but when you actually stay there, you quickly start to appreciate all the good stuff about the admittedly touristy town.

And Torremolinos is indeed a place that welcomes tourists, and knows how to treat them.

The Mediterranean seaside is lined with hotels. Well – that’s not quite true. There are lots of waterfront hotels, but between them and the sea is a many-kilometre, tilepaved walking path, with boutiques and restaurants, and an unending supply of public beaches. That walkway itself is a source of unending entertainment. A stroll from our hotel – Ocean House Costa del Sol – to the centre of Torremolinos offered ample opportunities for shopping, people-watching, and drinking and/or dining along the waterfront. There are unique features here, too – flocks of beautiful (but sadly invasive) Monk Parakeets, and a colony of well-care-for feral cats which live in the nocks and crannies of cliffs, and which are cared for by officially-appoint-

ed volunteers.

We enjoyed this walkway dozens of times, and never tired of the experience. I mean, Canadians in March, strolling beside the Mediterranean? What can be wrong about that?

Our hotel happened to be located right on the border of Torremolinos and the next town to the west, Benalmadena. Following the path west-ward immediately took us to a beautiful marina, more shops, more dining, more beaches, more everything a visitor might want in a warm-weather getaway.

We did discover one intriguing destination, in the heart of Torremolinos – the Parque Urbano ‘La Bateria’. It’s important to note, here that like all the Costa del Sol seaside towns and cities, the landscape shoots upward from the seaside. I mentioned cliffs, and I wasn’t kidding.

So this armed battery – armed with ancient guns – and guard tower, the “Torre Mirador”, rise high above the street. However, clever powers-that-be have built a dramatic, glass-sided elevator that carries visitors up to base of the tower, and to all the gorgeous gardens and water features that are also part of the “Parque”.

Downtown Torremolinos – well, considering its location on the top of the cliffs, “Uptown” – offers many more shops, restaurants and pubs. We stopped to enjoy street musicians (there are plenty of buskers about), and then made our way down shop-lined staircases to the beachfront walkway.

Speaking of musicians, one of the great things about staying in a Torremolinos hotel is the night-

(PHOTOS BY PAUL KNOWLES)

Torremolinos and the Mediterranean Sea, with the elevator and walkway in the foreground, viewed from the Torre Mirador.

ly entertainment. That is the case with many of the hotels, and you don’t have to be a guest to wander in and enjoy the show. We enjoyed all of the shows (and we took one in almost every evening); highlights include an Il Divo style show by a superb trio called The Bohemians, and a Flamenco dancing show that was both beautiful and astonishingly energetic.

The food scene in Torremolinos is highly cosmopolitan. Even in the hotel restaurant – which seats hundreds, and serves via buffets – you could fine superb choices, including freshly prepared fish (I, unlike normal humans, love squid), and, every day, a new take on paella. We

also had the chance to take a class in making paella (I continue my search for round rice here in southwestern Ontario), as well as a very jolly session on creating sangria!

As I said, Torremolinos is a terrific home base for adventures around southern Spain. But not just a place to leave from – our 23 days included 12 without an excursion, and Torremolinos also proved to be a lovely place to enjoy, in its own right.

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.

The Torre Mirador, high above the Torremolinos seafront.

Zorra Township News Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

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Westminster United Church, Rotary Club of Ingersoll encouraged to apply for community grants CONNOR LUCZKA Echo Correspondent

After a report and a delegation given to Zorra Township Council on May 7, both the Westminster United Church and the Rotary Club of Ingersoll were directed to apply for the annual community grants given out each year.

Westminster, in partnership with Cycles of Life, is hosting a weekly food drive and wishes to host it in the township’s Beaty Room due to the potential stigma of operating out of the church.

Staff investigated waiving the room rental fee for the group, which would cost the church $3,900 annually, and found a more agreeable option was to direct the group to apply for community grants to offset the cost of renting the room. In the interim, staff suggested running the drive out of the church.

One of the concerns around waiving the fee was the cost associated with the room rental. For the municipality to clean the space it would cost upward of $1,900 annually. It also

presents other administrative and liability challenges.

Policy wise, the township does not offer fee waiving for year-round bookings as well, and staff expressed concern that waiving the fee this time would lead to more organizations making similar requests in the future.

Likewise, the Rotary Club of Ingersoll was directed towards the community grants program.

Ted Comiskey delegated to council asking for support for a new food warehouse to support distribution efforts. As he said, the situation in Canada and the region is dire.

“Southwestern Public Health says that about one in five need some sort of assistance in Oxford. One way or another, social services are not enough,” Comiskey said. He pointed out that although this project is centred in Ingersoll, it is a regional need that is being felt in Thamesford and Zorra Township in general. Though many Zorra residents are fortunate, they are not immune to rising cost of living pressures, he said.

As envisioned by the Rotarians, the ware-

house would be used by various charitable organizations for storage and distribution and would be located in the former CAMI gymnasium next to the Seniors’ Centre in town.

The building is owned by General Motors and leased to the Rotary Club, but it has been vacant since the plant’s construction. Due to its 35 years of disuse, it needs $120,000 worth of renovations and the club has raised about half of that already.

Comiskey asked council for a small amount, suggesting $5,000 but making it clear that any assistance would be appreciated.

Despite petitioning for the urgent need, council directed Comiskey to apply for the community grants stream.

“You're not wrong that it's a need in Zorra Township as well as Ingersoll. I commend you and all the partners in working on this,” said Mayor Marcus Ryan after Comiskey’s presentation. “I would really encourage you to follow up with Sofia (Caldwell, manager of recreation and facilities) afterwards and look at the community grant policy and consider submitting an application to that.”

“This is an immediate request,” Comiskey replied. “… The need to get this building up and running and functioning … is going to have to happen over the next couple of months.”

Grants are awarded each year by council in the winter during budget deliberations. Applications open on July 1 and end on October 1 each year.

4.38% tax rate rise approved At that same meeting, council approved the 2025 tax rates, wrapping up the final piece of the 2025 budget that began to take shape late last year.

With a 5.26 per cent tax levy increase at the municipal level and the Oxford tax ratios set by county council earlier this year, for the average home assessed at $281,000, property taxes will increase by $157.39 in total, representing a 4.38 per cent rise.

For farmland assessed at $1.5 million, taxes are increasing by $182.87, 4.3 per cent. Commercial building owners will pay an additional $532.56 yearly, a 3.53 per cent increase.

Calithumpian 2025

(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)

Happy Cali! Parade Grand Marshall Jack Broadfoot gives a wave from the front of the 2025 Thamesford Calithumpian parade. Each year for the Victoria Day long weekend, Thamesford celebrates in style with festivities planned by the Calithumpian’s committee, culminating in a parade.

(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)

A member of the Aylmer Mocha Shriners, a prominent group in this year’s Calithumpian, pops up on two wheels.

(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)

Members of the Mocha Oriental Band, a unit of the Mocha Shriners, cuts through the crowd.

(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)

The Ingersoll Pipe Band marches through the intersection at Highway 2 and Stanley Street.

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

COMING EVENTS TAKE HOME PIG ROAST Old St Paul's Church 723 Dundas St Woodstock, Ontario Saturday June 14th.

Tickets are $25.00 each and include roast pork from the spit, potato wedges, beans, coleslaw and dessert. Pick up is from 5pm to 7pm. Don’t delay, tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance by visiting our website at www.oldstpauls.com or calling 519-537-3912.

OXFORD COUNTY ANNUAL COIN SHOW Woodstock Coin Club Along with Ingersoll Coin Club Sunday, June 29th, 2025 Woodstock Agricultural Society Fairgrounds 875 Nellis St., Woodstock, On N4S 4C6 9:00am to 3:00pm Admission: $4.00. Buy, Sell, Trade & Evaluate. Kid's Table | Free Parking | Food Booth is open Contact: John Tryhub, (519) 608-8446 / john@woodstockgoldnsilver.ca SACRED HEART PARISH EUCHRE We invite everyone to join us for a Euchre afternoon.

It will be held in Henderson Hall, 133 John Street Ingersoll.

Tuesday June 3 start at 1:00 pm. and Tuesday June 17 start at 1:00 pm.

Refreshments provided. For more info call or text Martha 519-320-0785 BREAKFAST ON THE FARM Date: June 14, 2025 Location: Hoenhorst Dairy Farm, Innerkip (parking is off-site and free shuttles will take guests to the farm) Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Tickets: $5 for adults, children free. Get up close with farm animals, see extensive tractor and farm equipment displays, explore interactive games and exhibits about where your food comes from and meet with local farmers and food producers.

Full details and tickets at FarmFoodCareON.org FOOD TRUCKS AT GRACE UNITED CHURCH IN TAVISTOCK May 26th: Berlin 95, Serial Griller, Los Rolling Tacos, and Beavertails. Proceeds supporting TAP - Tavistock Assistance Program TAVISTOCK MENS CLUB FISH FRY Wednesday June 4, 4:00-7:00 pm Pickerel Dine in or take out. Portion of profits to Tavistock Community Health fundraiser. Visit http:// www.tavistockmensclub.ca for more info and tickets.

(519) 655-3573 SECOND ANNUAL VILLAGES OF SALLY CREEK CHARITY CAR SHOW June 21st, at the Community Center, 330 Lakeview Rd, Woodstock, 9am to 3pm, Door prizes, top 10 awards, catered food, DJ. All proceeds to Domestic Abuse Services Oxford (DASO).

Spectator admission: free, Info: (519) 290-1173 email: larry.e.oliver@gmail.com “Y” KNOT QUILT SHOW AND SALE June 1st from 10am to 4pm Falstaff Family Centre 35 Waterloo St., Stratford.

Many beautiful new and antique quilts will be for sale with all proceeds going to help support the Stratford Family Y and Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth.

WALK FOR LUPUS IN WOODSTOCK Saturday June 7/25 at Southside park in Woodstock at the pavillion by the playground.

Registration starts at 10:00 am and the walk starts around 11:15.

Lots of raffle prizes and some refreshments.

For more information contact janropp@yahoo.com or call 519-535-9114.

NOAH'S ARK ADVENTURE July 7 - 11, 9:30am to 12noon

CornerStone Baptist Church 34 Graham Street, Woodstock, ON N4S 6J6 For ages 5-11. Call: 519.537.0125 for more information or go to https://www.myvbs.org/ cornerstonewoodstockvbs/ to register.

TILLSONBURG DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Interested in Bridge? Join us every Friday at the Tillsonburg Duplicate Bridge Club at 1 p.m. at The Senior Centre. Don’t have a partner? Come anyway and we will match you up with someone. For more information, visit their Facebook page: TburgBridge.

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 REPAIR CAFÉ - TOSS IT? NO WAY! 1st Saturday of each month; 9:00 a.m. - Noon St. John’s Church 685860 Oxford Highway 2, Eastwood, ON N4S 7V9 St. John’s, Eastwood, now affiliated with Repair Café International (look for us at repaircafe.org). Meets the first Saturday of every month 9am to noon at St. John’s Church 685860 Oxford Highway 2, Eastwood, ON N4S 7V9. Repairs made to clothing, linens, household items, toys, musical instruments etc. Save money, learn how to make your own repairs. Volunteers welcome.

Payment by donation.

GRIEF SUPPORT FOR MAID RELATED LOSS This monthly in-person grief support group for loss related to Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) offers a compassionate, safe space to explore this unique loss. The group will meet the 4th Wednesday of the month from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the Thamesford Library, 165 Dundas St., Thamesford. The group is free of charge and pre-registration is requested. The next meeting is Wednesday, May 28th. To register contact Deb or Faye at 519-866-3016 or email faye@ compassionategriefsupport.ca.

PEER SUPPORT GROUP FOR PARENTS & CAREGIVERS Third Wednesday of each month; 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

21 Wellington St., Woodstock (Virtual options available) PCMH is a peer support program providing support to parents and caregivers across Ontario with lived experience raising children and youth with mental health challenges. For more information, please visit family.cmho.org or oxfordcounty@pcmh.ca. We are also on Facebook: Parents for Children's Mental Health ~ Oxford County LIVING WITH LOSS: A SIX-WEEK GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Caring Hearts Support Network: St. David's United Church, 190 Springbank Ave., Woodstock ON A safe and supportive space to explore your grief, with the guidance of trained facilitators. Please contact for upcoming dates. No cost to attend. To register or for more information call or text 519-536-3370. www.caringheartssupportnetwork.com.

One-on-one grief support is also available.

VON OXFORD GRIEF CARE: FREE MONTHLY GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP Register at: oxford.griefsupport@von.ca or 519539-1231 Ext 6299 or 6296 TILLSONBURG WHEN: 2nd Tuesday of every month WHERE: VON Oxford Office 24 Brock St. W., Tillsonburg TIME: 6:30PM-8:00PM INGERSOLL WHEN: 4th Tuesday of every month WHERE: Ingersoll Public Library 130 Oxford St., Ingersoll TIME: 10:30AM –12:00Noon WOODSTOCK WHEN: 3rd Saturday of every month WHERE: Sakura House Hospice 715180 Oxford

Rd.4, Woodstock TIME: 10:30AM-12:00 Noon THE LIONS CLUB OF WOODSTOCK The Lions Club of Woodstock has been serving the community and Oxford County with kindness and generosity since 1931. The Lions always place the needs of neighbours and communities first. Through the dedication and hard work of our volunteer members, we are serving those in need together. If you are interested in becoming a member or simply wish to learn more by attending one of our monthly meetings, please email Steve Iorio at steveiorio4@gmail.com for more information.

ARE YOU IN A JAM? June 6 & 20 from 1-4p.m.

Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St S, Ingersoll.

Ingersoll's Country Music Jamboree Club is celebrating 40 years. New members wanted. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Listen, dance, enjoy! The club welcomes walk-ins at the door.

HURON PARK BAPTIST CHURCH EVENTS: 199 Berwick St, Woodstock BASKETBALL POWER CAMP August 18-22 9 am-12:50 pm Ages: 5-14 Call the church 519-421-4722 for Registration details.

MEN - BRING YOUR OWN CUT OF MEAT TO BBQ June 20th @ 6 pm Location: Huron Park Church Potato and Caesar Salad, Buns, Dessert provided + Jed Lau will demonstrate the preparation of different spice rubs Contact the church 519-421-4722 no later than June 13th for details and to register.

BEACHVILLE LEGION EVENTS: 434852 Zorra Line, Beachville

and discover our charming downtown businesses.

Enjoy live music, kids’ entertainment, exciting sales, yummy eats or take a seat on one of the many patios for a cold drink.

CHRISTMAS IN THE SQUARE December 12/13 & December 19/20 Get ready for a festive family adventure in Downtown Woodstock! Join us for free festive fun in Museum Square; expect smiles, laughter, and a jolly good time. Bring the kids and snap a free photo with Santa at his house. Take the opportunity to do some last minute shopping for your loved ones at the wonderful downtown businesses.

THE OXFORD COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY PRESENTS: THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Focusing on Oxford County History!

“History is alive in the buildings in which we worship – in the stained glass, in our records, books, artifacts and our stories!” Join Reverend Angus Sutherland as he takes us through the history of the Presbyterian Church focusing on Oxford County. Angus is past chair of the Committee for the National Presbyterian Museum (now the Presbyterian Church Heritage Centre), and acting Curator of the Heritage Centre’s Communion token collection.

Wednesday, May 28, 2025, 6:30pm Woodstock Museum, NHS Free public meeting – membership optional - refreshments served! info@oxhs.ca www.oxhs.ca 226-242-4774. Like us on Facebook @ oxfordhistoricalsociety1987 ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH 55 EVENTS: 642 Dundas St, Woodstock CADETS Every Monday (except May 19th: closed due to the Holiday)

ROAST BEEF DINNER May 23, 5:30 pm

SHUFFLEBOARD Moved to 3pm Thursday

THAMES VALLEY BLUEGRASS AND OLD TIME COUNTRY PICKERS May 24, 1-4 pm

DART LEAGUES Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday, & Friday evenings

KARAOKE May 24, 7-11 pm

ROAST CHICKEN DINNER May 25th, 5-6pm, Pre-order by May 20th.

With stuffing, mash potatoes, veggies & Cole slaw. For more information, please contact the Office 519-5373112 or Canteen 519-539-3401.

EUCHRE - Thursdays 7 pm DARTS - Fridays 8 pm FREE POOL DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK BIA IMPORTANT DATES: DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK SHOPPING NIGHT June 26, July 17, August 28, September 25, October 23, November 27, December 18 - 5pm-8pm Our monthly shopping event, Woodstock Shopping Night, typically occurs every 4th Thursday of the month. Participating stores stay open late until 8 pm to facilitate late-night shopping. Enjoy a great night out in downtown Woodstock with extended store hours & exciting specials.

MUSIC IN THE SQUARE June 19 until August 28 Every Thursday Come to Museum Square for a little lunchtime concert.

Music in the Square happens every Thursday from 12 pm to 2 pm during the Summer months.

Grab some lunch from one of the neighbouring businesses or bring your own and enjoy live bands and musicians.

DOWNTOWN WOODSTOCK SUMMER STREETFEST July 18/19 Summer Streetfest is a two-day celebration happening every July. Formerly known as Sidewalk Sales, Summer Streetfest invites you to discover Downtown Woodstock.

With Dundas Street closed off for cars, stroll the street

ZONE BRANCH MEETING May 25th at Branch 500 EVENING ENTERTAINMENT ON SATURDAYS May 24th - Jamie Morris 7-11pm May 31st - 2 for the Road 7-11pm CANADIAN HARVARD AIRCRAFT ASSOCIATION OPEN HOUSE & FLY DAYS June 14 (Rain Date: June 15) July 5 (Rain Date: July 6) August 16 (Rain Date: August 17) Sept 13 – Wings & Wheels All event dates take place from 9am – 4pm Tillsonburg Regional Airport Join us for our Open House & Fly Days during our special 40th anniversary season. These monthly familyfriendly outdoor events are always FREE and offer the opportunity to see our collection of Harvard aircraft up close, tour our hangars, explore restoration projects, purchase souvenirs, and best of all, purchase a flight!

Pre-booking your flight experience is recommended by contacting crewflights@harvards.com.

KIWANIS CLUB OF INGERSOLL OPEN HOUSE June 1st, 1-3 Fusion Centre, 121 Thames St North, Ingersoll, Ont Please RSVP by May 25th to: sam.horton@rogers.com or call/text 226-228-4630

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

27

South-western Ontario Outdoors – The quest for brown trout

JEFF HELSDON Columnist

The brown trout is a fish of beauty, with the bright colours of its spots setting it aside from other trout and salmon species and making it a thing of beauty. It’s known to be a scrappy fighter and to inhabit everything from small streams to the Great Lakes in Ontario.

It’s also one of few species of fish I haven’t caught.

I began thinking about changing that last fall. I had fished for rainbow trout and salmon in British Columbia, and cod, Atlantic salmon and sharks in Newfoundland, but the brown trout is practically in my back yard and I haven’t landed one. To be fair to my angling abilities, I hadn’t tried to catch a trout in a stream in decades, preferring to have a boat under my feet when angling.

Yet, I had seen the photos of brown trout on Facebook and wanted to fill that void. I turned to Dave Simeays, who I went to school with and is the most dedicated stream angler I know. I had seen his photos of browns on Facebook, and had a little bit of brown-trout-envy.

He agreed to take me out.

Although Norfolk, Oxford and Elgin Counties are in

Southwestern Ontario, there are still many cold-water streams that flow across the Norfolk Sand Plain. These waters are well known to hold migratory rainbow trout (steelhead) that anglers catch in Lake Erie and which create a spectacle when they line up for spawning and jump the smaller dams. But, the trout of the smaller tributaries are a guarded secret, and include native speckled trout and brown trout introduced decades ago.

Simeays and I headed to one of these tributaries – remember they are secrets and I can’t reveal its whereabouts – a couple of weeks ago. We discussed equipment briefly, and he advised to take the 10foot rod I had instead of the 6’6” one I use in the boat, saying it would come in handy to reach the holes without getting too close to the water. I had visions of my youth, trying to navigate the woods of Norfolk County with friend Mark VanHooren after speckles, and remembering the challenge of steering seven feet of fishing rod through the bush, but took Simeays’ advice.

Heading into the bush along the creek, he stopped at a log jam with a deep cut in it.

Kneeling down, he said this was essential so the fish don’t see you. I began to see where the longer rod was important.

“Browns don’t get big by not being smart,” he said, mentioning this is where the longer rod helps.

Simeays told me how he fished the streams and rivers of Norfolk and Oxford Counties since he was about six. His father was a devoted trout fish-

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Veteran stream angler Dave Simeays demonstrates the best way to approach the holes on area creeks can pay off. He recommends staying down low and kneeling while fishing so any fish in the hole won’t spot the angler.

erman and he followed in his footsteps. Nicknamed Stick when he was in high school, I always figured it was because he was tall and skinny. But ‘stick’ is also a slang name for a fishing rod, so maybe I was wrong?

After about the third hole, something hit my dew worm, adding a little excitement to the frigid morning. It ended up to just be a sucker. Simeays also caught a few fish, but his were a mix of chubs and suckers.

“This isn’t thick enough,” he said, pointing to the cover surrounding the creek. “Brown trout like it when there are bushes hanging over the creek with undercut banks.”

We continued on for a while longer, and he tangled with another chub, this one larger. We talked about where the brown trout in Norfolk County came

from, as brown trout are native to Europe. Simeays believes they are fish of German origin that were first stocked here in the 1850s. He also explained the difference between the lake-run browns, which generally tend to be larger, and the ones that remain in the tributaries throughout the year.

There was also some reminiscing about the Glendale

High School days, and the dreaded talk that seems to be part of more conversations these days: the aches and pains of getting older.

We finished the morning without catching a brown trout, but I was wiser about the ways of stream anglers. Brown trout is still on my list – maybe I will tie into one on Lake Erie this summer as I did catch

a blue walleye which is also rare, but that’s a story for another day. Or maybe I will find a top-secret brown trout honey hole, and won’t be able to tell anyone. Only time will tell.

Jeff Helsdon is an award-winning outdoor writer, a columnist for Ontario Out of Doors and writes for several other outdoor publications.

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May 23, 2025

Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

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We are accepting patients with the Canadian Dental Care Program.

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

Route to the Past – A Bitter Pill to Swallow SCOTT GILLIES Contributor

As we mark the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, let us look back on the life and times of some local lads who fought for freedom and in some cases paid the ultimate sacrifice. Flying Officer Robert Swallow one such local hero.

Robert Swallow grew up in Ingersoll as the youngest of three sons of Herbert and Mary Ann Swallow of 251 Thames Street South. As a student, he appears to have been well-versed and well-spoken. In 1935, The Ingersoll Tribune newspaper reported that while attending Ingersoll Collegiate Institute, young Swallow won the Dr. Cornish Public Speaking prize. Later issues of the paper show that Bob was also a member of the ICI Literary Society and occasionally performed on stage with fellow students including another future pilot, Kenneth William “Bill” Hawkins.

Born in October 1919, this handsome 19-year-old was also a cast member of the Ingersoll Little Theatre Guild in 1939. He had two older brothers: William had been born in 1908 in Providence Rhode Island, and Sidney in 1911 in Port Hope Ontario while their father was working as a travelling salesman in the steel industry.

Robert attended the University of Toronto, beginning in the fall of 1937 and in 1942 was awarded his Bachelor of Commerce degree in absentia because of his enlistment with the RCAF. He had enlisted in January of that year and was commissioned as a Pilot Officer in September after being trained at No. 1 Flight School in Malton.

He was sent to England in Novem-

ber of 1942 and in May of 1943 he was promoted to Flying Officer. Since his father was originally from Leeds England, young Robert must have been excited to be stationed in the ancestral homeland. His brother Sidney was already in England.

Sidney had also grown up in Ingersoll when their father was sales rep for the Ingersoll File Company. In 1936, Sid was working for the Ford Motor Company in Windsor when he came home to be an usher at the marriage of Leonard Coles and Marjorie Adams.

Fellow ushers included other Ingersoll residents, famed speedboat racer Harold Wilson and dentist Dr. J.M. Partlo.

During the Second World War, Sidney Swallow was in London England as Director of Design, Equipment and Mechanization for military vehicles at the Canadian Military Headquarters.

In December of 1945, the Tribune ran an article where Sid Swallow praised the work of Canadian autoworkers during the war. In particular it was noted that they had turned out parts for 100,000 military vehicles which were then assembled during the Blitz in London England and used during the D-Day invasion and subsequent landings. These vehicles had been tested to operate in up to 5 feet of water! Some of his praise may very well have been directed to the staff of the Ingersoll Machine & Tool Company which manufactured steering gear parts, as well as ammunition, during the war.

In August of 1943, Sid’s parents received the dreaded telegram that his brother Bob was missing in action.

Robert served as navigator on board Wellington bomber HF596 attached to RAF 166 Squadron. He and the rest of his crew had only been together with

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

this squadron for only a month. They were involved in laying mines in the North Sea and the coast of the Netherlands.

Mines were an effective deterrent against submarines, especially when laid under convoy levels. Historians have found that aircraft were more effective than ships in laying these mines.

29

Acoustic mines were detonated by the noise of a ship’s propellors; pressure or ‘oyster’ mines were set off by the pressure of a vessel passing overhead.

Robert Swallow was killed during a flight overseas on August 16, 1943. His nephew has created a website detailing all the missions of RAF 166 Squadron which provides photographs and biographies of Bob’s fellow crew members -- Flt/Sgt. Alan Peter Bates RAF; Sgt. Arthur Bromby RAF; Sgt. Ronald Carlon RAF; Sgt. Gordon William Dean RAF. They flew out of the Kirmington Lincolnshire station.

In March of 1946, the congregation of St. James Anglican Church held a special commemorative service in memory of Robert Swallow and his mates. They have no known grave, but a Union Jack was presented to the church in their memory by Robert’s brother Sid. This was dutifully hung over the Honor Roll within the church walls.

Ironically, military records indicate that the German pilot who shot down Swallow’s Wellington bomber was himself shot down and killed by friendly fire when returning to his own homebase in the Fatherland following another mission.

Route2thepast@gmail.com

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May 23, 2025

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QUIZ ANSWERS 1. Ancient Greece 2. U nion of European Football Associations 3. True 4. Lake Victoria 5. 366 6. Blue agave plant 7. Alexander Mackenzie 8. Doug Gilmour (92-93) 9. Tiana 10. A Swan

SUDOKU Sudoku Solution

7 6 5 3 9 2 1 8 4 3 2 1 6 4 8 5 9 7 8 9 4 5 1 7 2 3 6 1 5 2 8 6 4 3 7 9 6 3 8 2 7 9 4 1 5 9 4 7 1 3 5 6 2 8 4 1 3 7 8 6 9 5 2 5 7 6 9 2 1 8 4 3 2 8 9 4 5 3 7 6 1

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Woodstock Ingersoll Echo

May 23, 2025

32

Count on Kia Savings Event

The Kia Niro EV.

The Kia Niro PHEV.

Get a $1,500 Spring Bonus on select models.*

Get a $500 Spring Bonus on select models.*

Niro EV Limited model shown.

Niro PHEV EX Premium model shown.

Finance the 2025 Niro Wave EV

Finance the 2025 Niro LX PHEV

189/week at 2.49%

$

$

149/week at 5.49% Anderson Kia

1231 Dundas St. Woodstock, ON, N4S 7V9 Sales/Service: 519-537-6681 www.andersonkia.ca *Applicable to Lease and Loan only. $1,500 Spring Bonus applies only to new and previously unregistered 2025 Niro EV select models that are financed or leased through Kia Finance (on approved credit) from an authorized Kia dealer in Canada between May 1, 2025 and June 2, 2025. Bonus will be deducted from the negotiated vehicle selling price before taxes and can be combined with other offers. Bonus cannot be applied to past transactions. No cash surrender or other value. Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice. See your participating Kia dealer or visit www.kia.ca for details. **Limited time finance offer provided through Kia Motors Finance / KMF on select new 2025 Niro EV/2025 Niro PHEV models through participating dealers to qualified retail customers, on approved credit, who take delivery from May 1, 2025 and June 2, 2025. Representative finance example based on a new and previously unregistered 2025 Niro EV/2025 Niro PHEV. 2025 NIRO EV: Selling Price is $55,695. 2.49% finance APR for 84 months, with a $0.00 down payment or equivalent trade-in, equals 364 weekly finance payments of $189 – which includes: $2,000 delivery and destination fees; $100 A/C charge (where applicable); regional fees of up to $599 dealer administration fee, lien registration fees (up to $203, including lien registering agent fee); and all other applicable fees and levies (all of which may vary by region and dealer). Cost of borrowing is $9,323 for a total obligation of $69,168. 2025 NIRO PHEV: Selling Price is $38,895. 5.49% finance APR for 84 months, with a $0.00 down payment or equivalent trade-in, equals 364 weekly finance payments of $149 – which includes: $2,000 delivery and destination fees; $100 A/C charge (where applicable); regional fees of up to $599 dealer administration fee, lien registration fees (up to $203, including lien registering agent fee); and all other applicable fees and levies (all of which may vary by region and dealer). Cost of borrowing is $5,706 for a total obligation of $54,801. Excludes licensing, registration, insurance and applicable sales taxes. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order/trade may be required (but may not be available in all cases). Offer ends June 2, 2025 and is subject to change and extension without notice. While supplies last. See your participating Kia dealer or visit www.kia.ca for details. Information in this advertisement is believed to be accurate at the time of printing. International models and features shown. Kia is a trademark of Kia Corporation.