The cast and crew for the St. Marys Community Players’ (SCMP) 2025 spring production will bring heartfelt laughter and family connections to the stage at St. Marys Town Hall Theatre with Tony Award winning playwright Joe Pietro’s Over the River and Through the Woods. The beloved play follows the story of Nick Cristano (Kevin Foad), a young, single Italian American man who has been having Sunday dinner with both sets of his loving but overbearing grandparents his entire life. When Nick announces a career move that would take him far from his family, his grandparents scheme to keep him close, going to hilarious and unexpected lengths to make him stay.
“It’s the typical situation where it’s family and eat and mangiamo and tango familia – tango familia means I have family,” SMCP co-producer Gregory George said. “ … Essentially, (Nick’s intended move) begins a series of schemes by his grandparents to keep Nick around. They invite one of the grandmother’s Canasta partner’s daughter, Caitlin O’Hare (Marsha Irvine), to come to Sunday dinner the next Sunday, and … they’re trying to set him up.
GALEN SIMMONS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Local public-health officials are continuing to do everything they can to curb the spread of measles in Huron and Perth counties as the number of identified cases continues to rise both locally and across the province.
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen
and her team are working around the clock to curb the spread of measles in both counties as part of the provincewide response to the outbreak that first arrived in Ontario in October 2024.
“On Oct. 18, 2024, there was an exposure through a travel-related case in New Brunswick that was then connected to Ontario and introduced measles into Ontario,” Klassen said. “While New Brunswick declared their
“ … It’s classified as something in the theatre called a memory play, so all of them, Nick in particular, have many monologues to the audience explaining who people are.”
Both Nick and his grandparents get the chance to explore their backstories through these monologues. The grandparents’ stories in particular focus heavily on the Italian immigrant experience after the Second World War, giving the story on stage a deeply emotional backdrop. With sharp humour and deep emotional
(JULIE PHILLIPS PHOTO)
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Huron-Perth during ongoing Ontario measles outbreak
outbreak over on Jan. 7, 2025, unfortunately in Ontario that was not the case. From Oct. 18 – that first introduction –to April 2, there have been a total of 661 measles cases involving 13 health units.
“For HPPH, we reported our first measles case on Feb. 28, but quickly there were several others and it was apparent that local spread was happening among people who live, work and play in Huron-Perth. As of April 2, we are reporting 73 confirmed and probable cases, and I can tell you in the next weekly report, there will be more.”
Measles is a highly contagious virus. It is airborne and can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. The virus can spread to other people when someone with measles coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. Measles can result in complications such as diarrhea, ear infections and pneumonia. Rarely, measles can cause brain inflammation, respiratory failure and death.
Measles symptoms begin seven to 21 days after exposure to the virus and include:
• fever
• runny nose
• cough
• red eyes (watery)
• small white spots on the inside of the mouth and throat (not always present)
• a red, blotchy rash on the face initially, and then spreads down the body (normally appears three to seven days after symptoms begin).
Someone who has measles can be contagious from four days before the rash starts until four days after the rash starts. Most people fully recover from measles within two to three weeks, but sometimes measles can cause complications. Rarely, those who contract measles can develop subacute sclerosing panencephalitis – a progressive, disabling and deadly brain disorder –seven to 10 years after recovering from their initial infection.
“In Ontario, measles has been rare and that’s because Canada successfully eliminated measles in 1998 … and that happened as a result of high immunization coverage,” Klassen said. “So, while there are still occasional imported cas -
es, those would be quickly contained without a lot of community spread.
“Prior to the COVID pandemic, the average number of measles cases in Ontario ranged between seven and 22. So, very infrequent. … Now, as observed around the world, … vaccination rates have been declining. That was happening before due to increased vaccine hesitancy, and then during COVID, vaccination rates fell even more because of decreased capacity (and) decreased access in a lot of places to vaccines as people all around the world redeployed for the COVID response.”
As a result of decreased vaccination rates globally, more cases of measles are being introduced to Canada and Ontario from abroad. Since Ontario’s vaccination rate has also decreased, measles has quickly spread across the province, with most new cases in Ontario now resulting from spread within and between communities like those in Huron-Perth.
“That’s because there are people who are un- or under-vaccinated due to reasons such as medical reasons, kids are too young to be vaccinated and also conscience or religious beliefs,” Klassen said. “So unfortunately, there are more individuals and clusters of people like that now, and once measles is introduced, it spreads very easily. It’s very, very contagious.”
With the rising number of measles cases identified in Huron-Perth, both counties are considered areas of concern. HPPH is hosting measles vaccine clinics for infants, children and people born in or after 1970 who are not up to date – the people who are most at-risk for contracting measles. Meanwhile, HPPH communicates information about infection prevention and control, testing advice, and vaccination recommendations with the public and its health-care partners, and primary care doctors are ordering more measles vaccines and sharing important information with their patients.
HPPH completes case management and contact tracing for confirmed cases of measles, similar to the process employed by local public-health officials when cases of COVID-19 were discovered during the pandemic.
“For every confirmed case of measles that is reported to us … we contact that person and provide advice about their own care, when to seek medical advice, how to isolate and ensure they’re not spreading the infection, and then also their contacts. We try to reach out to all contacts, find out if they’re up to date on immunization or not and provide them advice on what to watch for, if they’re eligible for … treatment to try and prevent them developing infection, … and then what they can do to help prevent further spread of the illness,” Klassen said.
Anyone who believes they have been exposed to measles should report to HPPH by calling 1-888-221-2133 ext. 3299 and follow public-health advice. Until they are contacted by public-health officials, they should do the following:
• stay home, avoid contact with other people and avoid having visitors in their home;
• if medical care is needed, call ahead before attending a health-care facility to inform staff of the potential measles exposure so they can prepare and prevent the virus from spreading to others; and • wear a well-fitted mask while leaving home for medical care.
“The main difference between COVID and measles is COVID was a brand-new virus,” Klassen said. “No one had im -
munity and we didn’t have a vaccine, and we didn’t fully understand it either – we were learning as we went along. Whereas with respect to measles, we have a good understanding of this virus and we have a very effective vaccine with a proven track record. … Really, for most people the risk is low. For people who are up to date with their measles vaccination, we know it’s 97 per cent effective in preventing a measles infection. No vaccine is 100 per-cent effective, but people who have been vaccinated who develop the disease, which is not very common, tend to have a milder disease and less onward transmission.
“Adults born before 1970 are generally considered to have natural immunity. They likely contracted the virus in childhood. Individuals born in or after 1970 ought to check their vaccine record to make sure they have two doses of measles-containing vaccine.”
People who are at higher risk for contracting measles include those who are pregnant, people with weakened immune systems and children younger than five, particularly those who are two and younger.
For more information on measles in Huron-Perth, visit www.hpph.ca/ health-topics/diseases-viruses-and-illnesses/measles/#.
St. Marys Community Players to stage family comedy, Over the River and Through the Woods
resonance, Over the River and Through the Woods explores generational differences, love and the unbreakable ties that bind families together. The play has captivated audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and comedic charm, leaving both laughter and tears in its wake.
“We are thrilled to bring this heartwarming comedy to life on stage at the Town Hall Theatre in St. Marys and share it with our community,” said production director Phyllis Leighton in a press release. “Joe DiPietro has created a beautifully relatable story that speaks to anyone who has ever had to navigate the delicate balance between personal ambition and family loyalty. The humour is universal, and the heart of the play is incredibly moving.”
George said this production is unique for SMCP in that it features a cast that is mostly over the age of 70, some whom are over 80, with actors and crew members coming to St. Marys for rehearsals from as far as Stratford, London and Exeter.
“It’s been interesting in that way, making sure the walkways are shovelled and salted, and roads are open during the winter,” he laughed. “It’s also been very interesting technically because we are working with older people who, because of their age, maybe aren’t getting some of their lines on occasion. But that’s all part of process.”
Tickets for Over the River and Through the Woods are now available at stmaryscommunityplayers.ca or locally at Troyer’s Spices in downtown St. Marys. The play runs from April 25 to May 10.
EDITORIAL
Our papers are flying off the shelf at Tim Hortons
JUNE GRANT Independent Reporter
We knew our paper, the St. Marys Independent, was a hot item, but not to the extent seen last Thursday.
Our delivery driver stops at Tim’s at 7:30 a.m. every Thursday to drop off copies of the Stratford Times. When he was there last week, he also replenished the supply of the Independent. He estimated in total, there were approximately 50 copies of the Times and 40 copies of the Independent at the back counter when he was there.
So, we were very surprised when our office on Water Street received a call at 9:30 a.m. that very same morning alerting us that Tim Hortons had ran out of The Independent. Apparently, a woman had come in and picked up stacks of both newspapers.
We would love to hear from this per-
son to find out the end purpose for all these papers. If she was placing them at a business for pick-up by customers, that is great. We make many drop-offs to local businesses and would add it to our list so she gets them on a regular basis.
If she needed them for packing or for use in an outdoor loo, she could stop by our Water Street office and pick up past issues. We would prefer that to her using a current issue. On average, 200 copies are picked up at Tim Hortons every week so we would like to make sure an ample supply is available.
While we support the reuse of our newspapers for other purposes, at the end of the day, printing newspapers cost money and we want to make sure our readers get the chance to see each week’s paper before that happens.
After that, use our paper for whatever you’d like!
Overheard at the Co�ee Shop
Have you heard something humorous around town that you think might be of interest to others? Either email them to us at info@stmarysindependent.com with the title "Overheard at The Coffee Shop", call 519-284-0041 or drop by the office to let us know! I stand with penguins against tariffs. I condemn winter’s efforts to annex the sovereign season of spring.
Bravo Boo
We have 3 Bravos this week.
1) Bravo to the lovely young man, dark hair and beard, wearing a red and black checked jacket, who helped me by carrying a very awkward package up the stairs to the post office. Chivalry is not dead.
2) A big bravo to Jimmy Holliday. Five years straight of taking 10,000 steps a day. That’s over 18 million steps. Basically, you could have walked to the moon by now, but you chose laps around your neighborhood instead. Here’s to your relentless determination, titanium knees and suspiciously high step counts on laundry days. Keep stepping, Jimmy.
3) Bravo to the Busch Heavies on receiving gold medals Sunday night in the St. Marys Mens Hockey League. Despite losing to the much older Empties and berating a volunteer referee, they still managed to come away with the season series. Stay classy and best regards.
We have 1 Boo this week.
1) Boo to the PRC, who year over year can’t be bothered to fix the net situation. Our Lincolns have a real opportunity this season. The opposition have figured out how to get a whistle on the net being off! How many goals do we need called back before you decide it’s an issue?
Quote of the Week
“I’m probably gonna need a couple more days or maybe a couple weeks to realize what it means to be No. 1. I’m really proud for myself. I’m really proud for my family, for all my teammates that help me to reach that milestone and for all my coaches. It’s huge. It’s unbelievable. It’s an unbelievable moment, and I’m happy. We did it, boys. We did it.”
- Alex Ovechkin on scoring his 895th NHL goal on Sunday, passing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
St. Marys Independent
Publisher
Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com
Regional Editor
Galen Simmons • galen@granthaven.com
Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries
Tyler Carruthers • info@stmarysindependent.com
Business Development
Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com
Billing Administrator
Cindy Boakes • boakescindy1576@gmail.com
Administrative Assistant
Wendy Lamond • wendylamond74@gmail.com
Contributors
June Grant, Nancy Bickell, Mary Smith, Nancy Abra, Lauren Eedy, Spencer Seymour, Sarah Cairns, Paul Knowles, Jake Grant, Julia Paul, Emily Stewart, McGinny Photography
36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 info@stmarysindependent.com | 519.284.0041 | granthaven.com
The St. Marys Independent THOUGHTS OF THE WEEK
Sponsored by:
The two most powerful warriors are patience and time.
A moment of patience when angry saves many moments of regret. Joy does not simply happen, We have to choose it and live it.
The deep roots never doubt Spring will come.
Boos are submitted by community members and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the St. Marys Independent.
St. Marys looking to recognize town residents who are “Strong as Stone”
ST. MARYS INDEPENDENT Staff Contribution
The Town of St. Marys is encouraging residents to recognize those who give back through its Strong as Stone program.
The program allows residents to nominate individuals whose selfless deeds contribute to the quality of life in our community. Eligible nominees are publicly recognized at a town council meeting, celebrated in the media and given an official certificate.
“This program is a wonderful opportunity to honour those who make a real difference in our community,” said Mayor Al Strathdee in a press release. “Their generosity and dedication in -
spire us all, and it’s important that we recognize their efforts.”
St. Marys residents of any age, or those from outside of the community whose actions benefit St. Marys, are eligible for nomination. Only volunteer and voluntary service can be nominated; elected officials and those who do good as part of their job cannot.
Nominations will be accepted until May 2. Nominees who meet the criteria will be announced in May.
The application form can be completed online at www.townofstmarys.com/ StrongAsStone; paper copies are available at the St. Marys Public Library by advance request to corporate communications team lead Stacey Frayne at communications@town.stmarys.on.ca.
Woods win 2024 corn-yield challenge
STONETOWN STONETOWN CRIER
Thorndale Country Mills hosted its annual crop meeting and lunch on April 1 with approximately 45 farmers and representatives from Pride Seeds, Maizex Seed & BASF. The keynote speaker was John Lanthier from Market Smart Inc., an ag. marketing coach that spoke on our changing commodity markets in today’s challenging times. Several area farmers participated in the 2024 high corn-yield challenge and the winners were Dave and Mark Woods. The Woods family have a large broiler-breeder poultry and cash-crop operation just east of Thamesford and have grown Pride Seeds for many years. Pictured above, from left, are Thorndale Country Mills seed salesman Gord Johnson, yield challenge winner Mark Woods and Pride Seeds sales agronomist Olivia Noorenberghe.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF PEGGY SEGEREN)
Senior of the Week
Our senior of the week is Bev Rabbets. Bev was born in St. Thomas and grew up in the countryside of Malahide. He has been married to Isa for 61 and a half years. They had met through friends while Bev was working at the Post Office. They have one son and one daughter and four grandsons. Bev was a handyman and enjoyed doing renovations around the house. At Christmas time he would usually play Santa Claus at schools and businesses and loves to spread holiday cheer. He was a lay minister mainly for the St. Marys United Church. He is also a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and spent time as their Grand Marshal.
If you would like to nominate someone for Senior of the Week, contact us at 519-284-0041 or info@stmarysindependent.com.
Curtis Taylor named Firefighter of the Month for April
Contributed article
The St. Marys Fire Department has announced Curtis Taylor is Firefighter of the Month for April.
Taylor was hired on Jan. 1 and is a graduate of Lambton College’s pre-service fire program. Born and raised in St. Marys, he has the unique opportunity to work with his father, Capt. Ryan Taylor, a 30-year veteran of the department.
“I grew up around the fire hall and helped with various community service events”, said Curtis Taylor. “I knew there was a strong bond between the firefighters; they would often bring all their families together several times a year for various celebrations. The camaraderie, sense of community and opportunity for continuous self-improvement is what drew me to join the department. It is truly an honour to serve alongside my father and I look forward to learning a lot of the necessary trade skills to be a firefighter from him.”
Beyond the family connection, Curtis Taylor became a firefighter because he has “always liked helping others and wanted to help keep the community stay safe.”
Off duty, Curtis Taylor works as a painter for Sue Taylor Painting.
“Curtis was selected as Firefighter of the Month for demonstrating strong interpersonal competence to learn at every opportunity,” said Fire Chief Richard “Andy” Anderson. “This line of work can be challenging, rewarding and stressful all at the same time. From all indications, Curtis is up for the task as he progresses through the recruit-training program.”
“He is excited to contribute to the organization’s success whether it be on the fire ground or fundraising,” added his father, Ryan Taylor. “It’s going to be an amazing experience to work with my son and, in Curtis’ case, to see him develop the skills needed to maintain the highest standards of professional excellence.”
By Jake Grant
Curtis Taylor is the St. Marys Fire Department’s Firefighter of the Month for April
(NANCY BICKELL PHOTO)
Transportation-planning consultant recommends transfer of three sections of Perth South roadway to Perth County
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A transportation-planning consultant has recommended three sections of Perth South roadway – two abutting the City of Stratford and one southwest of St. Marys – be uploaded to the responsibility of Perth County.
As part of a county road-rationalization study aimed at improving maintenance and ensuring limited municipal resources are being directed toward the best-possible optimization of the county’s 496-kilometre road network, Tatham Engineering transportation planner David Perks presented to Perth County council the results from the study’s first phase, aimed at determining whether any current county roads should be transferred to the control of the county’s lower-tier municipalities, and whether any current local roads should be transferred to the control of the county.
“We want to make sure that the county road network is serving the county and, by serving the county, it services the municipalities especially with respect to economic growth,” Perks said.
that just fall into disrepair, and that just hurts everyone, especially when you’re trying to keep them to a county standard.
“We understand that there’s finite resources available for road maintenance and maintaining the road network, so those resources have to be focused and efficiently spent.”
In determining whether a county road should become a local road, Perks and his team divided the county’s existing road network into 89 sections and scored each section based on criteria including traffic speeds and volumes, whether they connect drivers to urban centres like Stratford and St. Marys, whether they are continuous through the county and beyond the county’s borders, and whether they serve heavy-industrial traffic among other criteria.
Each road section is then evaluated using a list of principles including whether they provide appropriate northsouth or east-west service, whether they complement the provincial-highway system, whether they are direct, succinct and along the shortest possible route, and whether they are capable of being improved and maintained. Final
Based on their findings and conversations with county staff, the consultants recommended responsibility for two of the 89 sections of existing county roadway – Perth Line 88A between Perth Road 178 and Perth Line 88 in North Perth, and Perth Road 151 between Whalen Line and Perth Line 8 in Perth South – be downloaded onto their respective municipalities.
During the road-rationalization process, the consultants also evaluated 11 sections of local roadway totalling 1.5 kilometres that were submitted by their respective municipalities to the county for consideration as to whether they should be adopted as county roads. Two of those road sections – Lorne Avenue between Perth Road 122 and Stratford city limits, and O’Loane Avenue between Perth Line 32 and Stratford city limits, both in Perth South – were identified as meeting the criteria for becoming county roads.
“Some of the issues when we looked at the local roads; they were either providing service that was very close to either a highway or another county road. Especially in and around Stratford area, there’s a lot of county roads and there’s a highway system coming through there – there’s a lot of redundancy – so it just didn’t make sense to bring them into the county road network to add more county roads in an area that is already
saturated with them. … We did identify Lorne Avenue and O’Loane Avenue in and around the city limits because they provide connectivity and serve a high volume of traffic.”
Consultants also recommended a third section of Perth South roadway – Whalen Line from Perth Line 151 to Highway 7, southwest of St. Marys – be taken over by Perth County because it extends an existing county owned road, connects to a provincial highway and is a boundary road for the county.
Now, the consultants will take the findings and recommendations from the first phase of their road-rationalization study and present them to each of the county’s four lower-tier municipalities for feedback, a report on which will be brought back to county council. Then county council will need to greenlight the second phase of the study, which will include information on financial impacts, road and road-infrastructure condition assessments, and a strategy for implementing those recommendations.
Perks and county director of public works John McClelland said implementation of the consultant recommendations could take upwards of a year to implement, and could be completed in stages to reduce the financial impact on all involved.
St. Marys resident wins best director at Madrid Independent Film Festival
WENDY LAMOND Independent Reporter
St. Marys filmmaker G-Hey Kim has had a great spring as she was recognized in March for her work in the film industry.
Kim won best director in the category of featurette movies at the Madrid Independent Film Festival in Spain for her movie, Tied. The film is a heartfelt story of friendship, resilience between two women and the encouragement needed to fulfill one’s dreams. The film was also submitted to film festivals in the U.S., U.K., Ireland, Japan and more.
Kim was born in South Korea and officially became a permanent resident of Canada in 2015.
Before coming to Canada, Kim took several filmmaking classes in South Korea which opened a whole new world for her and, although she loves watching movies, actually making films became her passion. Kim attended the advanced television and film program at Centennial College in Toronto and, in 2022, she moved to London where she continued her
education at Fanshawe College in the audio post-production program. At this point, Kim needed a part-time job and started working at the Sunset Diner in St. Marys, which led her to move to town in 2023.
“Making your own films means for me to show something that I want to share with people,” Kim said. “It’s really amazing that audiences focus on what I want to tell them in my films.”
What is next for Kim? She would like to make a web series based on real, behind-the-scenes stories about making movies. There are always unexpected events that happen when making movies, and she said it would be very interesting to people who have never worked in the industry.
Kim, who is very humble, was so happy to win this award.
“It means a lot to me because it’s the first time for me that my film was involved in a film festival in Spain. It’s a big encouragement for me to keep making my films,” she said.
Congratulations to Kim on her new status as an award-winning director.
Rae appointed chief government whip of Ontario
Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae has been appointed chief government whip of Ontario and will continue his role as parliamentary assistant to the minister of municipal affairs and housing.
At the age of 34, Rae is the second youngest MPP to ever serve in the role of chief government whip.
“I look forward to serving the people of Ontario and our government in these roles, in addition to my responsibilities
as MPP for Perth-Wellington,” said Rae in a press release. “I want to thank Premier Ford for the trust he has placed in me.”
Former minister and MPP John Baird was the youngest MPP to serve as chief government whip at the age of 33 under Premier Eves in April 2002.
Rae was recently re-elected for a second term in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
“Our government was re-elected with a strong mandate to protect Ontario and continue to build a stronger and more prosperous province,” added Rae. “I
look forward to working closely with Government House Leader Steve Clark and our entire government caucus to
ensure our ambitious legislative agenda meets the challenges ahead of us.”
Madrid Independent Film Festival executive director Tomás Pérez and G-Hey Kim in Spain, showing her best-director award.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
ST. MARYS INDEPENDENT
Staff Contribution
Stratford police warning residents after report of fraudulent paving company in the area
GALEN SIMMONS
The Stratford Police Service is warning St. Marys and area residents to be vigilant when dealing with supposed paving companies selling their services door-to-door after receiving a report of possible fraud.
On April 2, Stratford police were made aware of a possible fraudulent paving crew operating in the St. Marys and Perth County area. In previous years, similar paving companies have been
known to solicit customers by providing low prices for their services, but failed to complete the job or provided very low-quality work.
“We got information from concrete and asphalt suppliers in the St. Marys area,” said Stratford Police Service community resource and media relations officer Const. Darren Fischer. “They are going to try to turn them away when they attempt to purchase product from them. They typically go door to door and there is no description of them at this time.
“Most of the time, they start a job but
don’t finish, or they do a job but do it very poorly and don’t use enough material. It can be difficult to prove as a fraud sometimes and a lot of it becomes a civil case, but then they are gone and have provided contact information that isn’t accurate, and they cannot be tracked down afterwards.”
In July 2024, several people from the United Kingdom were arrested by the Stratford Police Service in relation to a paving fraud in the Stratford area.
The police service is reminding area residents to ask for references and to
check those references, as well as research the name of the paving company and business addresses provided. Contact local companies to confirm if what is being offered is legitimate. Look for business names on vehicles and check for company reviews with the Better Business Bureau. Lastly, always be wary of people who ask for payment upfront.
“Most importantly, if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is,” Fischer said.
Nature is Family Poetry Showcase hosted at St. Marys Station Gallery
ALIZON SHARUN
St. Marys Poetry Circle
“Nature is home.”
“As the animals wake up … the morning begins.”
“Notice the sprouts in the dirt.”
“Breathe sweet fresh air.”
“Rainy days make me happy.”
“Nature brings us all together.”
“When you make a snowman you make a new member of your family.”
These and many other lines from the young poets of Coyote Nature School warmed our hearts and lifted our spirits on a damp Saturday afternoon for the Nature is Family Poetry Showcase at St. Marys Station Gallery.
The children’s illustrated poems decked the walls of the Art Room. A few nerves gave way to excitement as the young writers stepped onto the podium in front of the microphone to deliver their poetic thoughts on what they loved about the seasons, animals and plants, and their connections with the natural world as being part of their family.
Enthusiastic applause greeted each performer from the audience of parents, grandparents, teachers and friends. There were even a few tears as these fresh voices expressed their feelings in poetry.
Members of The St. Marys Poetry Circle read poems for the children who could not be there in person.
Back in November, I connected with Kendra Martin, founder and director of Coyote Nature School, based at
her farm outside St. Marys and also in Harrington Hall. Her students, aged four to 14 were invited to write and decorate poems to display in the downtown store windows during April to celebrate National Poetry Month. The St. Marys BIA sponsored materials and printing. For the children in the nature school programs, keeping nature diaries, writing poems and making art are all part of the curriculum. For a few weeks up to the March break, The Turtles, The Chickadees and The Herons, encouraged by teachers and volunteers, gathered their thoughts and inspiration from daily lessons in the snowy woods,
creeks and fields, and made rough drafts of their poems. Then they took great care to write and decorate the final copies for display.
Coyote Nature School (coyotenatureschool.ca) offers full and part day nature education programs for children and families and there are still spots available for 2025-2026. The school’s mission is to grow the movement to connect children with nature. The St. Marys Poetry Circle wishes to encourage young people to write and enjoy poetry – a perfect symbiosis. Take a tour of the downtown store windows this April and enjoy the inspiring work of our budding, young poets.
St. Marys Station Gallery recently played host to a poetry showcase of poems written by students between ages of four and 14 at Coyote Nature School.
Thames River Paddling Club hosts fish-and-chips fundraiser ahead of Dragon Boat Challenge
EMILY STEWART Independent Reporter
As the Thames River Paddling Club (TRPC) celebrates 10 years as a club, the organization is fundraising for newer equipment and collecting pledges for their charity partner in the upcoming Dragon Boat Challenge, Andrew’s Legacy.
TRPC will have a fish-and-chips fundraiser dinner at Joe’s Diner on April 26. The dinner will be $30 for diners partaking in the sit-down dinner from 5:306:30 p.m. and $18 for takeout. The fundraiser will support the paddling club’s programming.
“Joe’s Diner’s support has been amazing for our club,” said club president and coach Ben Gerber. “We have been trying to host a dinner together for a while and are excited that it’s happening. Joe’s Diner has run the (Wildwood Dragon Boat Challenge) event barbecue as well as provided a motorboat for the last three years and became our title sponsor last year as well. The family and staff are amazing and always willing to help.”
The paddling club will use funds raised towards maintenance and equipment upgrades. Nearly all of the club’s equipment purchases are funded through fundraisers.
ing. The event also includes music, a silent auction and food from Joe’s Diner. So far, 16 teams are registered from across southwestern Ontario, including from Toronto, Woodstock, London and Stratford.
Teams will have a chance to collect pledges for Andrew’s Legacy, a charity focusing on installing automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) in schools and community sports fields, and raising awareness on life-saving CPR in case of sudden cardiac arrest, in memory of the late Andrew Stoddard. So far, Andrew’s Legacy has donated more than 70 AEDs to Ontario communities.
SPONSORED BY: McDonald’s St. Marys 752 Queen St E Founding and Forever partner of Ronald McDonald House
PRC & Friendship Centre events – See the Stonetown Crier on Page 5
St. Marys Public Library events – See Page 22
Friday, April 11
- Royal Canadian Legion “hot dogs and more” lunch at Noon
- A.N.A.F. meat draw – 6 p.m.
- St. Marys Lincolns vs London Nationals (Game 5 if needed) at the PRC – 7:30 p.m.
THE WEEK AHEAD ST. MARYS LEGION
Saturday, April 12
- Thames River clean up – Registration 9 a.m. at Milt Dunnell Field, BBQ 12 p.m.
- St. Marys Poetry Circle booth under the canopy at Riverwalk Commons – 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Stone Home Creatives Spring Maker Faire at Riverwalk Commons – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Royal Canadian Legion meat draw – 5 p.m.
Sunday, April 13
- Jacqui Davis celebration of life at St. Marys Golf & Country Club – 1:30-3:30 p.m.
- St. Marys Lincolns vs London Nationals (Game 6 if needed) at Western Fair Sports Centre – 7 p.m.
Monday, April 14
- St. Marys Horticultural Society meeting at the Legion hall – 7 p.m.
Tuesday, April 15
- Royal Canadian Legion Buddy Check coffee at the Legion – 10 am to Noon
- St. Marys Lincolns vs London Nationals (Game 7 if needed) at the PRC – 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 16
- Nature school for ages 18 months to 6 years at Wildwood Conservation Area – 9:30-11 a.m.
Thursday, April 17
- Quiet Poetry event at Barista’s, 14 Water St. S – 10 a.m. to Noon
- Joe Unholzer celebration of life at Purple Hill Country Hall – 1:303:30 p.m.
“Currently, we’re working on purchasing a newer used dragon boat that will be more comfortable for training, lighter and require less maintenance than the one we currently have,” Gerber said. “It would benefit all our dragon-boat programs which have paddlers ranging from 12 to 80 years old.”
The TRPC will also host the Dragon Boat Challenge at Wildwood Conservation Area on May 24 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Races include the 300 metre, 100-metre knock-out and one-kilometre flag catch -
Building off of last year, Gerber said the club is working towards bringing an AED to Wildwood’s marina building.
“Thankfully, I haven’t experienced a cardiac emergency through dragon boat, but it has happened. We also heard about Andrew and a few club members are friends with the family,” he said. “Our hope is to help raise funds so that Andrew’s Legacy can donate AEDs back to the communities that are participating and supporting the event.”
More information about the TRPC and the Dragon Boat Challenge can be found online by visiting www. thamesriverpaddlingclub.com.
Menu consists of BBQ steak, baked potato, baked beans coleslaw and pie
$25 PER PERSON
at
Everyone Welcome This meeting is for YOU! Come out and
Refreshments provided by St. Marys Tim Hortons
Over 500 attend spring scrapbooking sale
On Saturday, April 5 the Friendship Centre held their Spring scrapbooking garage sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with over 50 vendors participating. Pictured to the right are Jane
and Eliza Reid who sold baked goods provided by the volunteer bakers to raise money for the St. Marys Senior Services. There was an excellent turnout with over 500 people in attendance. In total, $4,299.05 was raised for this worthy cause.
Cousineau
(NANCY BICKELL PHOTOS)
Flooding in Milt Dunnell Field.
much of the falls was left to be seen with the high waters.
(WENDY LAMOND PHOTO)
(WENDY LAMOND PHOTO)
Flooding in Kin Park.
Rain, snow and sleet pelted St. Marys and much of southern Ontario last Wednesday, leaving high waters and flooding in its wake. Pictured is a view of the Thames River, looking north, in St. Marys after the storm.
(WENDY LAMOND PHOTO)
(WENDY LAMOND PHOTO)
Do
We
Nominations
More information: Joannah Campbell, Recreation Manager 519-284-2340 ext. 626 or jocampbell@town.stmarys.on.ca Successful
St. Marys Independent SPORTS
Lincs up 3-0 on Nats in West semi-final
SPENCER SEYMOUR
Independent Sports Reporter
Heading into Game 4 on April 9, the St. Marys Lincolns were one win away from their third consecutive Western Conference Finals appearance after winning each of their first three semi-final games against the London Nationals.
The series began on April 4 when the Lincolns hosted the Nationals for Game 1 and doubled London by a score of 4-2. St. Marys got off to a hot start with Lincoln Moore firing the game’s first goal just 42 seconds after the opening puck drop. Just under 11-and-a-half minutes later, Blake Elzinga sniped home his second of the post-season.
Head coach Jeff Bradley was very happy with his team’s start to the game, which he said guided the Lincolns to the eventual victory.
“We achieved our primary goal, and that was to win the game,” Bradley told the Independent. “I thought for the first half at least, we showed we were a tough team to beat. I was really happy with what we did in that part of the game. Everything was really good. We were good in every part of the ice. We were responsible. We were physical. We were on the right side of pucks. Our goaltending was excellent.”
Bradley noted the team’s performance in the back half of the game left a little to be desired.
“Later in the game, I thought we gave London some momentum and some belief. We were a little bit undisciplined penalty-wise, and we started doing things with the puck that we didn’t need to be doing. We were passing up good shots and turning pucks over. Momentum is a big thing and we held it for over half the game, but we gave it back, and that’s something we have to correct.”
Kyle Morey scored a powerplay goal in the final minute of the third period, celebrating with an emphatic point to the centre ice, a response to three disallowed goals in the first two periods because the London net was dislodged by goaltender Casimir Weckström.
Bradley acknowledged the frustration that comes with having so many goals waved off, but made it clear he didn’t
fault the on-ice officials for making the calls.
“I thought we did as well as we could,” Bradley said of the Lincolns’ ability to deal with having multiple goals not count. “Anyone is going to get frustrated in situations like that, but there is nothing the referees can do about it. There is a rule set by the league and the referees can’t do anything about that. That isn’t going to take the frustration away, obviously, but we can’t blame the refs for calling the rule that is in place.”
A third-period powerplay saw Luca Spagnolo finally bury his first goal of the post-season, which Bradley said was a weight off the back of the Lincolns’ captain.
“It was good to see, and hopefully it’s the first of many for Luca (Spagnolo). He’s been working hard, and scoring is certainly something he always thinks about. He does think about it. He wants to produce. He provides so much for our team, but I know he wants to provide offence as well. Being an offensive contributor means something to him, so I’m glad he got it.”
The Lincolns’ four-goal lead was cut to just two by a pair of goals by Aydan
Doyle and Connor Clark, the first of which came on a Nationals’ man advantage, while the second came as London was shorthanded. However, despite a bit of a sleepy finish to the third period, Colby Booth-Housego preserved the Lincolns’ lead to earn the 29-save win in goal and help the Lincolns take a 1-0 series lead.
Chase MacQueen-Spence posted two assists in the game, although the assistant captain was still looking for his first goal of the post-season heading into Game 4.
Lincs withstand Nats’ surge in Game 2
As great teams have to do from time to time, the Lincolns found themselves needing to weather a storm in Game 2 when the series moved to London for the first time, and despite segments of the game in which the Nationals put on tons of pressure, St. Marys never floundered and escaped with a 4-1 victory to take a 2-0 series lead.
Bradley credited the opposition for the dangerous offensive-zone time the Nationals managed to find in the second game of the series.
“That has something to do with them
coming out and pushing hard. They did a good job putting pressure on us and, at times, you just have to withstand what the other team is doing, and I thought we handled that pretty well. And in the end, we got the win, which is what matters at the end of the day.”
It took just three minutes and seven seconds of the opening period for Noah VandenBrink to fire the icebreaker, giving the Lincolns a 1-0 lead into the intermission.
In the second, Cohen Bidgood cranked a powerplay one-timer past Weckström, which was followed almost exactly nine minutes later by a shorthanded goal by Owen Voortman.
Down by three minutes heading into a four-on-four situation, the Nationals pulled their netminder in favour of a five-on-four advantage, which resulted in a goal by Aiden McDonald, the only blemish on an otherwise stellar game for Booth-Housego.
“Colby (Booth-Housego) is getting the opportunity to be the guy right now because he’s earned it,” Bradley said. “He’s earned this opportunity to be the man. He works so hard and he’s proud of his craft, so it’s of course impressive to see him give us such good play like he has, but it’s no surprise knowing him, and the way he’s grown here is the natural progression for an elite athlete like him.”
Even when they had lacklustre stretches throughout the game, the Lincolns never wavered in hurling their bodies in front of pucks, resulting in cavalcades of blocked shots, which Bradley said is a necessary part of championship pedigrees.
“It’s their desperation when things are going wrong,” Bradley said. “In the defensive zone, they’re laying down, blocking shots and chipping pucks out. They’re just doing simple things and slowing down London’s progress and push and making it harder for them to gain momentum.
“It’s something that is expected and is a standard here. We’re trying to get to our third conference finals in a row here, and many of the guys in this room have been there and know what it takes
Luca Spagnolo roars in celebration after scoring his first goal of the playoffs in the St. Marys Lincolns’ 4-2 win over the London Nationals in Game 1 of the Western Conference semi-final.
(TURNER ROTH PHOTO)
U16 A Boys defeat Strathroy 5-2 to win Shamrock League Championship
TURNER ROTH
Independent Sports Reporter
The St. Marys Legion U16 A Boys St. Marys Rock ended their season in poetic fashion when they captured the Shamrock League consolation title with a 5-2 win over the Strathroy Junior Rockets on March 29 after going undefeated in their playoffs.
Head coach Bob Davis, who retired from his role as a coach with the St. Marys Minor Hockey Association (SMMHA) at the end of this season after more than three decades, praised the team’s level-headed effort in the championship victory.
“They played a really good team game and they were conscious of being disciplined,” Davis told the Independent. “They didn’t get caught up in the garbage that can occur at this age. They didn’t take too many penalties. They stuck to the gameplan we set up. They focused on offense in the first period and defense in the second period, and they closed it out really well in the third. They showed how much they wanted to win.”
Jack Turner opened the scoring for St. Marys as he tallied the first goal of the game two minutes in, but Strathroy responded with a goal of their own just a minute later. St. Marys came out of the first period ahead 3-1, getting two more goals from captain Zach Larmer and as -
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
The St. Marys Legion U16 A Boys St. Marys Rock earned their Shamrock League Championship with a 5-2 win over the Strathroy Junior Rockets on March 29. Pictured in the bottom row, from left to right, are Jaxen Brown, Cash Flannery, Cainan O’Doherty, Brody Cox, Zach Larmer, Ethan Henderson, Ethan Culling, Hayden Wright and Jack Turner. In the top row, from left, are Mark Brintnell, Andrew Davis, Nic Brintnell, Kolton McCallister, Ben Ewing, Don McGregor, Peyton Wynands, Grayson Gerber, Zach Matheson, Hunter Pickel, Michael Davis and Bob Davis.
sistant captain Hayden Wright. A second-period stalemate, highlighted by the Rock’s strong defensive play, resulted in the score staying 3-1 heading into the third. Along with the team’s solid defensive work, Davis praised goaltender Ethan Culling’s performance between the posts.
“Ethan was really good for us in net,” said Davis. “We needed him to make some huge saves at times and he did it, and that gave the rest of the guys the extra push they needed.”
Benjamin Ewing found the back of the net just under three minutes into the final frame, assisted by Ethan Hender-
Lincs up 3-0 on Nats in West semi-final
to get there and what it takes to win it. And playing with that desperation is just part of it. They know they need to do it, so they do.”
Nats come undone as Lincs take 3-0 series lead
In a game eerily reminiscent of the Nationals’ last regular-season visit to the Pyramid Recreation Centre (PRC), London’s performance was the tale of two vastly different teams. In the first period, the Nationals played their best hockey of the series, but by the third period, the very same team had descended into a fist-flinging carnival act.
The Lincolns, on the other hand, got better as the game went on, which was good news for St. Marys fans considering the poor start to the game for the home side.
“It felt like pond hockey to start,” Bradley said. “I went into the dressing room after the first period and said, ‘We just played probably our worst period of the playoffs.’ We decided to play London’s style of hockey, which we specifically talked about not wanting to do in our pre-scout meeting. It was a matter of getting back to playing our game, and to their credit, we did that.”
Despite the Nationals having a decidedly better opening 20 minutes, the Lincolns managed to go into the first inter-
mission tied at two apiece, getting goals from Ryder Livermore, his first of the post-season, and Elzinga, who scored a virtually identical goal to the one he recorded in Game 1.
David Brown and Anthony Tudino got the Nationals on the board, which gave London a 2-1 lead at one point. It was the first time so far this series the Lincolns have trailed.
Less than two minutes into the second stanza, it was clear the Lincolns were going to respond to the challenge from their head coach, as Ryan Cornfield tapped the puck into an open net on a feed from Morey.
A little less than nine minutes after Cornfield’s goal, Ryan Hodkinson jammed home his third of the playoffs on a wraparound, one of three points the hometown centreman put up in the game.
Hodkinson, along with linemates Elzinga and Bidgood, have been the Lincolns’ best line all playoffs.
“The line of Ryan (Hodkinson), Blake (Elzinga) and Cohen (Bidgood) is just unbelievable right now. They are the best line so far these playoffs, and the only line we haven’t changed. Ryan has been an absolute monster everywhere. Blake isn’t playing any special teams right now, but has just been outstanding at everything we’ve needed from
son and Kolton McAllister. The Rock’s three-goal lead lasted around five-anda-half minutes before Strathroy brought it back to a two-goal game. However, St. Marys answered back just 27 seconds later when Wright buried his second of the night.
In addition to his first-period goal, Turner ended the game with a pair of assists. McAllister also tallied two helpers, while Wright earned an assist as part of a three-point effort. Ewing and Donovan McGregor put up individual assists during the Rock’s three-goal first period. With St. Marys hanging on for a 5-2 final, they claimed their Shamrock League Championship, an accolade Davis said was always within the team’s reach.
“To me, winning the league championship helped them to realize the potential that we as coaches always knew they had. It helped them understand how much they had improved from the beginning of the year and illustrated how much they had grown in their ability to play as a team.
“It also reinforced how important it is to play together as a team. They needed a winning end to a very positive year. We ended the season ranked in the top 10 out of 85 teams in the province. I really think they simply wanted to go out as winners. This was a great way to end a successful season.”
him. And Cohen is just so consistently effective. They have just worked so well together, and they are eating their opponents alive.”
Jaden Lee potted his third of the post-season midway through the third, with Spagnolo and Hodkinson adding empty netters in the final four minutes of the game to seal a 7-3 final in the Lincolns’ favour.
Before the game was done, the frustrated Nationals turned to simply trying to take a pound of flesh and instigated a brawl that resulted in Aydan Doyle and Jacob McLellan getting ejected for a fight. Doyle was also assessed an extra helmet-removal charge. Luke McSorley was also booted from the game for unsportsmanlike conduct. In the final minute, Matthew Balloch was assessed a six-minute penalty, including four for facemasking and two for cross-checking Elzinga, along with a 10-minute misconduct that saw him sent to the dressing room early for inciting.
While the Nationals were unravelling, Bradley was able to take note of several other strong performances from throughout his lineup.
“Jacob (Montesi) just stabilizes everything so well,” Bradley said. “He’s so intelligent and he can slow the game down when we need it. It was great to see Luca (Spagnolo) and Jaden (Lee) both get re -
warded for their hard work. Ryan (Cornfield) was absolutely awesome. Ryan plays responsibly when he needs to. He knows when to play up the ice and push the play faster.”
Looking ahead to Game 4, Bradley explained how better powerplay looks and a 60-minute effort, driven in particular by a strong start to the game, are the team’s focuses heading into what could be the final game of the series on April 9.
“We need a good first two periods. I want us to have a really good first two periods and, ideally, take away hope from London by the third. Obviously, we need to look at it shift-by-shift and take the periods five minutes at a time, but in totality, I want to see us have a really good first two periods. I want to see a truly complete effort. I want our powerplay to look more focused because it was absolutely rotten (in Game 3).”
A Lincolns’ legend was recently honoured in significant fashion with the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) renaming its regular season scoring champion award after St. Marys great Terry Crisp. In two seasons with the Lincolns from 1959-1961, Crisp scored 194 points and was a two-time league-leading scorer and Western Ontario League champion.
Burgins compete at World Masters Track and Field Championship
SPENCER SEYMOUR
Independent Sports Reporter
Aileen and Harold Burgin represented St. Marys and Canada on the international track-and-field stage when they competed at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Track and Field Championship, hosted in Gainesville, Fla., March 22-30.
Harold Burgin earned a pair of bronze medals, coming in third in the Men’s 85+ shot-put and javelin competitions. He also came in seventh in his division’s 60-metre run. Aileen Burgin, meanwhile, earned a fourth-place finish in the Women’s 80+ 60-metre final after tying for second in her semi-final heat to qualify for the championship. She also qualified for the 200-metre final and finished sixth.
“This was something far beyond any lifetime experience I could imagine,” Aileen Burgin said. “In my heart, I am not a serious athlete, but I would rather be doing something rather than doing nothing. I always like to say that I don’t idle well. Whatever the task, I do the best and the fastest that I can. I certainly would not have undertaken anything like this if Harold wasn’t with me, though. Together, we are leading charmed lives.”
Harold Burgin told the Independent he felt the weight of being in such a massive international competition.
“Putting yourself on the line in a competition is not easy. So many details have to be covered, so when I was finally standing and waiting for each of my four events, it really didn’t matter what my placement was – only that I was standing there with worldwide agemates focused on the finish line. Winning two bronze medals quite exceeded my expectations.
“Stepping onto the athletic world stage for the first time certainly was a phenomenal experience,” continued Harold Burgin. “During the opening ceremony where all 98 countries paraded their flags, we felt fortunate to be part of the 208-member Canadian team standing as one.”
When discussing her results, Aileen Burgin said she was amazed by what she was able to accomplish.
“Truthfully, I have to say that I am still in disbelief,” she said. “Having only competed in the Ontario Masters races with the Women’s 70 and Women’s 75 in the 60-metre and 200-metre events, I had no idea how I would fare in my age group, the Women’s 80, with 18 competitors from around the world. When I tied for second place in the first 60-metre heat and then placed fourth in the final, it really was surreal. Then, to actually
make it into the 200-metre final, there aren’t enough words to describe the feeling of achieving that.”
Aileen Burgin described being met by an incredibly positive environment, with other competitors coming up to them directly and expressing excitement to see Canadians in attendance.
“Having never been directly involved in a competition of this magnitude, I really didn’t have any expectations,” she said. “At no time was there ever any hint of animosity, only best wishes, congratulations and praise from fellow competitors, track marshals, shuttle-bus drivers, hotel staff and every restaurant we visited. We even heard people saying that we were inspirations or role models, which was a bit scary to say the least.
“I will never forget the many social interactions while waiting to be admitted to the call room and the camaraderie while waiting for the signal to approach the start line. Onsite and offsite, we had many conversations which reinforced the common objectives of positive sportsmanship and that aging doesn’t have to put an end to that.”
The support the two received never ceases to help the duo continue competing and staying as active as they are.
“I can’t help thinking that it would have been so easy to have missed the whole experience,” Aileen Burgin said. “We received nothing but encouragement at every level, from our family to the Kirkton falls-prevention class to the Friendship Centre instructors. Our 13-year-old grandson passed on his spikes to me, and we had two daughters and two granddaughters accompanying us. Bottom line, it’s never too late to extend your reach into the unfamiliar. Age, as we hear over and over, is just a number.”
Aileen Burgin (right) ties with Mary Robinson of the United States for second in their semi-final heat in the Women’s 80+ 60-metre run at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Track and Field Championship, hosted in Gainesville, Fla., on March 22-30. Aileen and Harold Burgin represented Canada at the international track and field competition, with Aileen finishing fourth in the 60-metre final, while Harold took the bronze medal in the Men’s-85+ shot-put and javelin events.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAGGY’S PHOTOS)
Kira Henderson fires a shot on net during one of the St. Marys Kinsmen U9 C Girls St. Marys Rock tournament games last Saturday.
Charlotte McLean skates the puck out of her zone during one of last Saturday’s Harris-Greig Automotive’s U9 HL Girls St. Marys Rock tournament games.
Will Jacobs launches a shot from along the boards during one of the A.N.A.F. U15 A Boys St. Marys Rock games earlier this season.
Addie Dundas flings a backhand shot on target during one of the FUN3 St. Marys Snipers’ games earlier this season.
Eleanor Beech advances the ring through the offensive zone during one of the U12 St. Marys Snipers’ games earlier this season.
(SPENCER SEYMOUR PHOTOS)
DCVI hosts one-day badminton tournament
a
tournament on March 31, featuring competitors from around the
Members of
St. Marys DCVI hosted
badminton
Huron-Perth district.
DCVI’s badminton team competed in the tournament, both in singles and doubles action. Pictured on the left are Owen Muir hitting the birdie, backed by boys doubles teammate Ethan Henderson. On the right, Charlotte Johnson supports teammate Lily Hollestelle-Black, the latter of whom sends the birdie back over the net.
(SPENCER SEYMOUR PHOTOS)
The tournament also featured mixed doubles and singles matches. On the left, Regan Jones stretches out to keep the birdie in play, flanked by mixed doubles teammate Charlie Bender. On the right, Owen Muir and Charlotte Richardson take centre stage as they compete in singles competition.
(SPENCER SEYMOUR PHOTOS)
Banner year for St. Louis rink at St. Marys Curling Club
ZWAMBAG PHOTO)
This year’s “A” champions in the St. Marys Curling Club’s Competitive League were Brady St. Louis (skip), Jason Clarke (vice), Aaron Waugh (second), and Mark King (lead). The St. Louis team edged the rink of Morris Vandewalle by a 6-3 score on Wednesday, March 26. This season was particularly special for this foursome of curlers because earlier in the winter, they won the Everest Cup qualifier (over Vandewalle, who again was the finalist) to earn the right to represent the St. Marys Curling Club in a provincial club championship this fall.
(ANDREW ZWAMBAG PHOTO)
Aaron Waugh and Victoria Wierenga are this year’s Monday Night Doubles Champions. They are pictured above with finalists Russ Mitchell and George White. Waugh and Wierenga saved their best curling for when it counted the most. After finishing 6th place (of 11) in the regular season, they went undefeated in the double elimination playoff tournament to win the Championship. They played five outstanding games, defeating the top three teams in the league.
above is the Pat Murray rink who earned the “B”
League finals. From left to right are Dennis Lunn
Pat
the
ond), and Jeff Jackson (vice). Meanwhile, the “C” champions for this year was the
nell rink, comprised of Matt McConnell, Michelle Galloway, Madeline Freedman, and Allison St. Louis. Finally, the “D” champions were the team of Stewart Grant, Alan Johnston, Scott Lobb, and Mike Bender.
(ANDREW
Pictured
championship in
Competitive
(lead),
Murray (skip), Steve Hutton (sec-
McCon-
(ANDREW ZWAMBAG PHOTO)
The popularity of doubles curling meant that there were two thriving leagues this year. In the Friday afternoon league, Rick and Luke De Brabandere, pictured above, defeated Tom and Marjie Westerveld in the final by a score of 9-6.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Winners of Draw 1 of the Thursday recreational league were Karl Grabowski, Ann Aarts, Matt Aarts, and Joe Adams.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
This year’s Draw 2 champs in the Thursday recreational league were John Droog, George White, Ilea Pick, and Krista Droog. Russ Mitchell, pictured right, filled in as spare for Krista during the final game.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
COLUMNS
UKRAINIAN CORNER: Walking the streets of Lutsk
Lutsk is a remarkable city that blends comfort, flavour and coziness, and is Ukraine’s greenest. Also known for its lively cultural scene, it attracts travellers from all over. Each street, house and corner reflect an age-old heritage, with the city’s earliest recorded mention dating to 1085.
A perfect introduction to Lutsk’s past is the medieval Lutsk Castle, also called Lubart’s Castle, located in the city centre. This fortress testifies to Lutsk’s rich history, and its towers offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Inside, visitors can explore halls and exhibitions revealing facets of the city’s heritage, including a one-of-a-kind bell museum. Myths abound here, such as the tale of cursed treasure concealed by Dmytro Lubart, son of Prince Gediminas. Superstition holds that you can double your luck by rubbing a 200-hryvnia note showing the castle’s image. Some say a ghostly woman wanders the site each night, adding to the castle’s allure.
Near the fortress rises the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, considered one of Ukraine’s most renowned Roman Catholic cathedrals. Though the nation is chiefly Orthodox, western regions have a longstanding Catholic presence dating back to the Kingdom of Poland’s 14th-century annexation. Built in the 15th century in a classicist style, this cathedral exhibits symmetrical proportions and precise geometry akin to Ancient Roman architecture.
A short walk leads to the Dominican Monastery, the earliest Catholic monastery in Volyn, a historic region that spans parts of Poland, Belarus and Ukraine. Dating to the late 16th century, it shares the classicist tradition with the cathedral while featuring a distinctive red-and-white exterior, setting it apart from other churches in Lutsk.
Beyond these landmarks, Lutsk shines as a particularly green city. Its parks and tree-lined avenues pro -
vide fresh air and lovely spaces for relaxation. Central Park is a popular place among families and friends seeking a tranquil outdoor retreat; community events often unfold there throughout the year.
After enjoying the city’s monumental sites and
Straight from the Shelves
romance by Astrid Scholte. Read this title in hard copy format or as an eAudiobook today!
Play Euchre Monday mornings at the St. Marys Public Library! Take tricks, play bowers, and have fun in a casual environment. All levels of experience are welcome, but if you’re brand new to the game, please give us a call (519-2843346) before attending. Bring a friend or meet someone new at Euchre Mondays, 10:30 a.m. every Monday.
This Week’s Recommendation
Just like a standard deck of cards, the Queendom of Quadara has four queens, or rather, Quadara had four queens. Follow skilled liar Keralie Corrington as she teams up with goody-two-shoes Varin to uncover the truth behind the tragedy at the heart of their country in “Four Dead Queens”, a murder mystery
Up This Week
Fri., Apr. 11: Open 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sat., Apr. 12: Makerspace Open House* (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.)
Mon., Apr. 14: Euchre Mondays (10:30 a.m.)
Tues., Apr. 15: Open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Wed., Apr. 16: EarlyON Play and Read (9:30-10:30 a.m.), Mahjong! (1-4 p.m.), Scrabble (6-8 p.m.), Books & Brews*~ (7 p.m.)
Thurs., Apr. 17: Open 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
*Registration Required ~Held at Broken Rail Brewery (480 Glass St., St. Marys)
peaceful greenery, visitors can explore Lesya Ukrainka Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare. Restaurants, cafés and clubs line this bustling area, which becomes especially lively in the evening. During the warmer months, the street hosts open-air performances and music that showcases Lutsk’s modern cultural energy.
Each year, Lutsk hosts numerous festivals celebrating its artistic heritage and vibrant community spirit. Traditional folk events and holiday fairs fill the city’s calendar, transforming streets and public squares into dynamic stages. Visitors can witness traditional dance groups and experience the warmth of local hospitality. These festivities ensure every moment spent here feels authentically Ukrainian.
One can easily spend hours roaming the city, admiring historic architecture or savouring local delicacies. Lutsk’s culinary offerings range from hearty soups to artisanal cheeses, and there’s no shortage of pastries, coffeehouses, or wine bars. If you’re interested in a more structured experience, a guided gastronomic tour will lead you along atmospheric streets, narrating captivating stories of the city’s evolution while you taste specialties like honey mulled wine, the popular “Lutsk Castle” dessert and an array of regional liqueurs.
In every sense, Lutsk offers special glimpses into centuries of history with hidden treasures and appetizing cuisine. Its timeless charisma intertwines with a thriving dining and nightlife scene, guaranteeing an illuminating and delightful stay. Whether you seek historical depth, culinary adventures, or the thrill of legendary tales, Lutsk rewards you with a memorable journey shaped by the influences of diverse cultures and epochs.
As you wander these storied streets, you’ll sense the city’s spirit, where tradition and innovation unite. Lutsk stands as a testament to how a community can preserve its past while embracing fresh ideas.
To be continued ...
Ask the Arborist
By Joel Hackett | 519 272 5742 | jtsquote@gmail.com
Dear Arborist,
My wife and I saw you working over on Jones St West. There was a large green and orange machine grabbing the tree. We were curious as to what that is called and how it works.
Thanks, Greg
Dear Greg,
We were removing a siberian elm tree, it was cracked. Since it is known to be a weaker species of trees to begin with, the customer opted for removal. A friend of mine recently purchased a West Tech CS570 grapple saw, with a Merlo telehandler to run it. As there was a lot of obstacles to work
around I asked him to bring it out. Basically, the machine grabs and cuts the tree for you, allowing for a controlled and very safe removal. The specs say it can handle grabbing and cutting a log or branch up to 30 inches in diameter. It sure made life easier. I quite enjoyed it; it is always fun to try new technology.
Sincerely,
The Arborist
Joel Hackett is a certified Arborist residing in the St. Marys area. Currently, he spends most of the year running Joel’s Tree Service. For contact call 519 272 5742 or email jtsquote@gmail.com
LAURA MCASH
St. Marys Public Library
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
1: Lutsk Castle. 2: The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul. 3: The Dominican Monastery. 4: Central Park.
HISTORIC ST. MARYS: The 1911 Tariff Election,
MARY SMITH Independent Columnist
In 1911, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada’s Liberal prime minister, called a federal election for Thursday, September 21. The main ballot question was a proposed reciprocity (free trade) agreement with the United States. The Liberals believed that freer movement of goods between the two countries would strengthen the Canadian economy. The Conservatives, under Robert Borden, were opposed. Their objections were wrapped in rhetoric about Canada’s position within the British Empire. The Empire was where the country belonged, not in a position of economic dependence on the United States. In 1911, electioneering was different. There was no radio, no television, no internet, no national polls. People did read newspapers to find out what promises the parties were making and to learn how candidates were received at various campaign stops. In 1911, there were fewer eligible voters – women had not yet won the franchise although many were keenly interested in politics and may have had considerable influence within their families. There were also fewer undecided voters. People tended to be loyal to one party for life, inheriting that affiliation from their fathers and intending to pass it on to their own children. The two local newspapers were also clear in their editorial positions: the St. Marys Journal supported the Conservatives while the St. Marys Argus was a Liberal paper. Through the month of September 1911, as the day of the election got closer, the papers’ positions became more emphatic. Since the election was held on Thursday, neither the Journal nor the Argus could print the results until their next issue on September 28. However, there were other ways of sharing information. The Journal’s office was right on Queen Street and bulletins were posted on large sheets of newsprint beside their office front door. The newspaper had an early press run on election day morning with this information highlighted: “On Thursday night, the Journal will bulletin the results of the election as they come in through Mr. T. D. Stanley’s telegraph office over the Great North Western wires. The Journal will be represented at every polling division in South Perth and the county returns will be phoned direct to this office as soon as the count at each poll is completed. Citizens generally, Conservatives and Liberals alike, are invited to avail themselves of any information at our disposal.” The Journal took further advantage of publishing early on election morning to run a long article under this banner heading: “Some Cogent and Timely Points About Reciprocity: Read Before Voting!” There were 20 “cogent” points, ranging from reciprocity as a threat to ties with Great Britain, to the loss of control over Canada’s natural resources.
Although the St. Marys Argus was located on a side street and did not have the same high visibility as the Journal bulletins, it also published on election day. The paper included its own article – “Some Facts for Electors,” emphasizing the many advantages of access to the large market to the south. The Argus summarized reasons that the residents of South Perth should vote for G. H. MacIntyre. Some reasons were rather abstract – “A vote for McIntyre is a vote for a reciprocity and a vote for reciprocity is a vote for the world’s peace!” Others were very practical – “A vote for McIntyre is a vote for cheaper bacon, ham, lard, prepared meats, canned meats, canned vegetables, and canned fruits.” The Argus concluded with a very local appeal: A vote for G. H. McIntyre is a vote for St. Marys!”
On September 28, both papers published the results of the previous week’s election – something their readers would certainly have already known! If they hadn’t been downtown to follow on the Journal’s bulletins, they would have read the results in daily newspapers delivered to St. Marys, from Stratford, London and Toronto. Interest was high and, at the very least, even the most homebound would have heard the news from family or neighbours. After 15 years in power, Laurier’s
part two
Liberals had been soundly defeated. Of the 221 seats in the House of Commons at that time, Robert Borden’s Conservatives had won 132 of them, with the Liberal Party reduced to 85 seats. The Argus explained in an editorial: “The verdict was Ontario’s, and the annexation cry did it.” The Conservatives also won in British Columbia and Manitoba and even gained seats in Quebec and the Maritimes, traditional Liberal strongholds. In 1911, the Liberals were dominant in Saskatchewan and Alberta, two provinces that saw a great advantage in free trade for their grain. But Borden’s stance against reciprocity was unchanged. He declared, in his victory speech: “It is my conception that friendly relations can best be maintained if each country preserves complete and entire control over its own tariff and enters into no entangling agreements which might impair and affect that control.”
In South Perth, Dr. Michael Steele defeated G. H. McIntyre by a margin of 89 votes. The local newspapers published what the large dailies did not – poll by poll results for every town and township in the riding. Amateur political analysts would have studied these results to try to learn where their candidates had convinced voters or had failed to do so. Perhaps surprisingly, McIntyre was outpolled in St. Marys, receiving only 306 votes to Steele’s 422. With more support from his hometown, he might have won the riding. It had been a very polite campaign; both South Perth candidates were highly respected. According to all reports of speeches and public appearances, opposing policies and platforms were attacked but never the actual candidates themselves.
Perhaps Borden’s anti-reciprocity platform won the day in South Perth. Or perhaps, although he seemed to work hard, G. H. McIntyre had not been able to give his full commitment to the campaign. He and his wife, Bessie, had suffered a great personal loss during his last term in Ottawa. In 1910, their only son, George, died of tuberculosis. In his 28th year, the young man had just completed medical school. Bessie suffered a complete breakdown and returned to her family in Guelph for care and treatment. McIntyre closed the family home and, at the time of the election, was living in a nearby boarding house. He died on December 1, 1913, age 61, just a little more than two years after his defeat.
Dr. Steele remained the representative for South Perth for ten years. He was re-elected in the 1917 election that created the Borden’s Union Government to deal with the conscription crisis during the First World War. Steele was a respected, if not outstanding, parliamentarian, serving on a number of standing and special committees. He became friends with another graduate
of St. Marys Collegiate, Arthur Meighen, and admired his rise to power in Borden’s cabinet. Twice widowed, Steele married for the third time toward the end of his parliamentary career. The members of the House of Commons presented him with a charming writing desk and chair to mark that occasion. In the early 1980s, Steele’s daughter, Dorothy, donated this desk and chair and several other artifacts relating to her father’s life to the St. Marys Museum.
Steele was defeated in the 1921 election, retired from politics and from his medical practice in Tavistock. He received appointments to several offices in Perth, including Registrar of Deeds for North Perth, a position he held from 1930 to 1935. He also invested in mining ventures in the Temiskaming area of Northern Ontario. Dr. Michael Steele died in 1946 and is buried with his family at Avonbank.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ST. MARYS MUSEUM’S COLLECTION OF HISTORIC IMAGES)
The St. Marys Journal office, 142 Queen Street East, early 1900s. News bulletins, including early election results, were posted on the board beside the front door.
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: More than just a bucket list destination
This article is about St. John’s, Nfld., but let’s start in downtown Toronto, specifically, at the fascinating attraction called Little Canada.
During my visit to Little Canada, I was “littlized.” Sadly, this does not indicate an effective diet plan. Instead, a miniature of me – three quarters of an inch in height – was produced through a 3D photography and subsequent molding process. I was asked where I would like my mini-me to be placed in Little Canada. And about three weeks later, I received a photo of the tiny Paul loitering just outside the YellowBelly Brewery in St. John’s, Nfld.
Why there? Two reasons – because St. John’s is an amazing place to visit, and because the YellowBelly tavern is a terrific source of excellent beer, good food and great stories.
It probably says everything you need to know that when registration opened for our 2024 Travel Media Association of Canada conference in St. John’s, the 250 available spots were filled in two hours, and a waiting list was growing by the
minute. St. John’s is clearly one of Canada’s bucket-list destinations, and deservedly so. I suspect it will become even more popular as more Canadians opt to explore Canada.
I loved a lot of things about St. John’s. There is, of course, Signal Hill, the iconic location at which Guglielmo Marconi received the first-ever transatlantic wireless signal in 1901.
Oddly, that’s not where the name originated. Signal Hill was a key post used for military signaling (initially by flags) as early as 1704. As communication became more modern, Signal Hill became the terminus of eight telegraph cables connecting Newfoundland (and points south and east) to Ireland.
Signal Hill boasts an historic tower and amazing views, but this being Newfoundland, home of the friendliest folks you’ll meet, one of the biggest attractions is a man and his dog – Ed Jackman and his 140-pound Newfoundland named Sable Chief. They come to the hill almost every day, and Sable Chief happily poses for photos – no charge – with visitors.
Of course, visitors to St. John’s also have to capture photos of the colourful houses in Jelly Bean Row – although I find this rather amusing, since it would seem that at least half the homes in the older sections of St. John’s are equally brightly hued.
Every attraction in St. John’s comes with a story or three. The home of the governor general, in the midst of a beautiful park, has a rather quixotic feature – a moat! Our guide, Jeff Howard, told us when the stately home
was constructed, the governor of the time held that office both in Newfoundland and in Bermuda. He ordered the construction of an official residence in each place and wanted a moat around the Bermuda building. But the plans got switched, and here, on high ground in peaceful Newfoundland, the official residence of the King’s representative is protected by an entirely unnecessary moat.
One of the most popular districts in St. John’s is Quidi Vidi, home to the amazing craftspeople housed in the Quidi Vidi Artisan Studies, as well as a terrific brewery named for the village. That’s just one of the unique small communities within easy distance of downtown St. John’s, all worth a visit!
Of course, most visitors to St. John’s – and thousands of locals – spend a lot of time in the pubs and clubs of George Street. Heck, the Great Big Sea song, “The Night Pat Murphy Died,” pays homage to this party central.
“They stopped the hearse on George Street outside Sundance Saloon; They all went in at half past eight and staggered out at noon.”
And that brings us back to the YellowBelly Brewery. It’s ideally located; its front door is on Water Street, its rear entrance on George.
And don’t get the impression it is named for cowards; YellowBelly is the name of hurling teams from Wexford, Ireland – and they don’t come tougher than Irish hurlers.
Brenda O’Rielly owns the place. She told me it has stood
on Yellowbelly Corner since before the 1700s and has been occupied by a lot of different businesses. She bought the building 22 years ago and, before opening, spent five years doing renovations and turning it into the thriving enterprise it is today.
YellowBelly’s beers are unique creations, brewed onsite. But there is still room for a total of 700 patrons – not counting the patio, open in warmer weather. The beer labels reflect the Irish/Newfoundland connections of the place: Wexford Wheat, Come From Away, Fighting Irish Red Ale and, my favourite, YellowBelly Confederation Ale with a can featuring a wildly colourful portrait of
the first premier of Newfoundland, Joey Smallwood. St. John’s may be a bucket-list destination, but for me, it certainly isn’t one I would check off as been there, done that. This hospitable, unique community is a place you will want to spend time in, again and again. And when I do, you’ll be able to find me right there at the YellowBelly Brewery. Although unlike mini-me at Little Canada, I will probably be inside with a pint close at hand. Paul Knowles is an author and tavel writer, and President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@golden.net.
PAUL KNOWLES Independent Columnist
The famed Jelly Bean Row in St. John’s.
(PHOTOS BY PAUL KNOWLES)
YellowBelly Brewery owner Brenda O’Rielly spent five years renovating the historic St. John’s building before opening.
The author with Sable Chief on Signal Hill.
Learning some basic Newfoundland skills at Quidi Vidi village in St. John’s.
FROM THE GARDEN: Hard to trust a rodent
It is interesting that we put trust in a groundhog to predict spring. As for the spring equinox, the official start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere seems to be also off by a couple weeks. Mother Nature holds all the cards and rules the fate of the beginning of spring, not a
furry fat rodent, or the calendar.
Many will agree that it has been a long winter. With the snow finally gone, we still may get a few flakes more. The heavy rains of recent weeks have swollen our creeks and have joined the heavy torrents of our rivers. Area farmers’ fields as well as our gardens are also sodden with water.
The melodic ‘cheer-up’ chorus of the robins brightens our mornings with their songs. And we welcome other migratory birds back from their winter retreat. I always look forward to the red-wing black birds and their distinctive musical shrill, another sign of spring as well.
In the garden, the buds of the trees are swelling. The grass is greening. My rhubarb is pok-
ing its red heads up from the ground. Soon my asparagus will be forcing its spears upward. The snowdrops and crocuses are filling in the garden’s bareness. Soon varieties of narcissus and tulips will be adding colourful blooms to people’s gardens. With a few warm sunny days, my eastern redbud will be bursting its branches with pink. These are all welcoming signs of Mother Nature’s masterwork of spring.
I trust Mother Nature, so you may find it a little concerning that I trust frogs over Wiarton Willie. And you are probably wondering how a seasoned gardener could put their trust in an amphibian over a fat rodent?
The songs of wood frogs, chorus frogs, and my favourite,
spring peepers in early spring is nature’s symphony announcing the arrival of warmer days. As these amphibians emerge from their winter hibernation, the males sing their love songs to attract females. Each species has its unique tune: spring peepers produce high-pitched ‘peep peep’ sounds, chorus frogs create a noise like running a fingernail along a comb and wood frogs have a unique sound that resembles quacking ducks.
The annual chorus of frogs, depending on the weather, typically begins in late March or early April. Their melodies often grace warm evenings, filling the air with the sounds of spring’s arrival. Folklore and lessons from our grandparents or parents may hold varying
beliefs about nature’s signs, but my dad instilled in me a special tradition: listen closely to the spring peepers and their nightly performances. He taught me that their songs must pause three separate times during spring before winter is officially over.
So far this season, I’ve only heard the spring peepers’ serenade once - a fleeting concert interrupted by a cold snap. Two more performances remain, marking the transition to spring in its full glory as the days and evenings grow warmer. Whether you trust a fat rodent, singing frogs or Mother Nature’s subtle signs of warming days, we will all be happy when we can finally get out in our gardens again.
NANCY ABRA Independent Columnist
Riddles
What has a head, a tail, but no body? A coin!
Why did the teddy bear say no to dessert? Because it was stuffed!
What gets wetter the more it dries? A towel!
What kind of tree fits in your hand? A palm tree!
What did one wall say to the other wall? I’ll meet you at the corner!
What do you call a dinosaur that is sleeping? A dino-snore!
What kind of band never plays music? A rubber band!
Why can’t Elsa hold a balloon? Because she’ll let it go!
What do elves learn in school? The elf-abet!
Why did the cow cross the road? To get to the udder side!
What kind of key opens a banana? A monkey!
Why did the golfer bring two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one!
Why do bees have sticky hair? Because they use honeycombs!
What did the ocean say to the beach? Nothing, it just waved!
Kid
- Word Search -
SPONSORED BY:
Adult Learning Programs of Perth, 26 Wellington St. S. St. Marys |
St. Marys Veterinary Clinic is pleased to be the sponsor of the
PET OF THE WEEK
Flooded rivers and creeks can be dangerous for people and pets! Prioritize pet safety by keeping them away from high, fast flowing water and slippery banks
DAISY
Our Pet of the Week is Daisy, a four-yearold golden retriever. Daisy likes long car rides with Mom and Dad, short walks in the summertime, swimming at the pond and treats. She is not a fan of winter or being left alone. Daisy likes to spend her day sitting on the front porch watching other dogs pass by. She is a member of the Daum family.
Thorndale Lions pledge to St. Marys Healthcare Foundation
Healthcare Foundation and presented a cheque to Foundation board members
In 2022, the Thorndale Lions Club made a monetary pledge of $50,000 to the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation.
Members knew this commitment was important for the community as approximately 1,000 residents of Thames Centre visit the St. Marys Memorial Hospital each year. With successful fundraising events over the past few years such as Social Gaming Night and the community breakfasts, the Thorndale Lions completed their pledge to the St. Marys
Cindy Bilyea and Linda McFadyen at their Lions meeting last week.
“The Foundation is grateful to the Thorndale Lions for their pledge of $50,000,” said past chair and board member of the health-care foundation
Cindy Bilyea. “It is organizations like this that have made it possible to see the east and west wings of St. Marys Memorial Hospital go through major construction. The hospital will be safer and more efficient for our staff, patients and their families for years to come.”
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THORNDALE LIONS CLUB)
Thorndale Optimists host breakfast to thank volunteers Thames Centre community grant awarded to West Nissouri Seniors Complex
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THORNDALE OPTIMIST CLUB)
Club recently hosted a volunteer-appreciation breakfast.
Booth during the baseball season and at the fair,” said Optimist member Melanie Sorensen.
Recently, the Thorndale Optimist Club hosted a breakfast for club members and the many volunteers from the community who helped the Optimist Club last year.
“A big thank you to the community who has supported us over the years and to the volunteers who have assisted us in our Thorndale Optimist Food
Sorensen said the club will also need help again this coming summer at the Food Booth on Wednesday evenings for the ladies slo-pitch league and on Sunday, when the men play ball. Also, she stated
“Don’t forget to register your child by April 12 at www.ilovethorndale.ca for the Easter Egg Hunt, which will be held the following Saturday,” she added.
The Municipality of Thames Centre recently announced one of the non-profit organizations to receive a community grant was the West Nissouri Seniors Complex in Thorndale. “As a volunteer on the Board of Directors, we are most appreciative of this $5,000 grant we received in order to continue to maintain affordable housing for our senior population of this community,” said seniors complex board chair Mary McCutcheon. Pictured from left to right are Thames Centre deputy mayor Michelle Smibert, seniors complex board member Mary Chowen, Mayor Sharron McMillian and McCutcheon.
NANCY ABRA Independent Reporter
Pictured above right, Thorndale Lions Club member Ron Johnson presents a cheque to St. Marys Healthcare Foundation past board chair Cindy Bilyea and board member Linda McFadyen, which complete the club’s $50,000 pledge to the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation made in 2022. Also in attendance at this meeting but not in this photo was Ken McCutcheon, St. Marys Healthcare Foundation fundraising chair for the Here for You Today, Building for Tomorrow campaign.
The Thorndale Optimist
(PHOTO COURTESY OF MUNICIPALITY OF THAMES CENTRE)
NANCY ABRA Independent Reporter
OBITUARY Rice
Adelaide Matie “Dale” Rice’s 100 year old spirit left her body after watching the birds and viewing the Bruce Trail from her own bedroom window on April 5, 2025.
Born in Schenectady, New York on December 26, 1924, she and her family moved to Canada and made it their permanent home two years later. She was proud to become a Canadian citizen in our Centennial year of 1967.
Dale served her country during WWII as a young Farmerette in Fenwick, Ontario. (Read “Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes”) She graduated from Queen’s University with a focus on Psychology and Biology, excelling in both fields. She later joined the Toronto Mental Health Department, where she worked as a psychologist in the school system. Her love for children also led her to roles with the YMCA’s So-Ed Program, and as the Superintendent of the Two-Year-Old Children’s Program at her church. Later in life she worked with mentally challenged children and continued her studies in Early Childhood Education. She went on to direct a nursery school program and volunteered into her 80’s at Bethlehem Place in St. Catharines assisting with programs for both parents and children.
Dale found peace in nature, a love that began in her teenage years during visits to Lake Waseosa. She would pack a wind-up Victrola in her canoe, paddle to the middle of the lake, and listen to the music echo across the still water. Swimming, dancing, hiking, Tai Chi, camping, puzzles, card games, bird watching, children, travel, canoeing, and reading were her passions. Whenever she had the chance to enjoy quiet moments on the water or walk along a tree-lined trail, she embraced it fully.
She was predeceased by her husband Roger, (Minister at Thorndale United Church in the 80’s) her infant son Paul Christopher, as well as brothers Floyd and Robert. Dale’s greatest joy in life was her family. She worked tirelessly to create a creative and nurturing home, where her five children were celebrated and encouraged to reach their full potential while respecting the rights of others. Loving mother of David (Susan), Marilyn (Harry), Peter (Annette), Beverley (Brahma), and Dayalan/Bryan (Prasanna). Grandmother of Jennifer (Ray), Shannen (Aaron), Alischa (Shawn), Matthew, (Elyse) Eric, Ryan, Natalie, and Geoffrey, and great-grandmother of Alex, Aiden, Jaxson, Emma, Devin, Bodie, and Nolan.
We would like to thank the many Personal Support Workers, Occupational Therapists, Nurses, and Doctors Bernhard and Monica Volz who have all cared for mom with the greatest respect over the past few months. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Reverend Judy, Reverend Jane, and to all of Mom’s caring friends from the Albright and Trinity United Church communities. She treasured these friendships over the years, and the presence of these valued friends provided comfort when our family could not be by her side.
Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a date yet to be determined. Online tributes and donations to the David Suzuki Foundation or Trinity United Church, Beamsville are much appreciated and can be made at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca
OBITUARY Schmidt
April 24, 1938 – April 4, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Robert E. Schmidt, a man of unwavering kindness, optimism, and a soul that brightened the lives of so many.
Robert (Bob) was born in the Stratford General Hospital on April 24th, 1938. He spent his childhood on the Schmidt family farm in Ellice Township.
Bob was the beloved husband of Lorianne (Fuller), with whom he shared 65 wonderful years of marriage—a partnership filled with love, adventure, travel, and countless cherished memories. Together, they raised four daughters: Nancy (Chris Buck), Heather (Jamie Horne), and Kim (Mark McKay). He was predeceased in 1970 by his infant son, and in 2022, by his eldest daughter, Kathryn (Kathy McPhail).
A proud and loving grandfather, Bob was never happier than when surrounded by his grandchildren: Jon McPhail (Kyrsten), Dan Buck (Celyne), Julie Wiffen (Brady), Jamie Buck, Jenna Hazen (Mike), Emma Coughlin (Braiden), Andy McKay (Corrina), Justin McKay (Courtney), Ashley McKay (Connor), Mike Buck (Meghan), and Mathew Buck (Stephanie). His joy multiplied with his great-grandchildren, Maxwell, Eliana, Lawson, Ledger, and Raelynn Buck; Noah, Jake, and Theo McPhail; Leo and Scotty Wiffen; Blake Hazen, and Adelaide McKay.
Bob spent his life dedicated to family, farming, and community. A lifelong dairy farmer, he was a proud leader of 4-H and a Junior Farmer in his youth, and a Charter member and past President of the Ellice Optimist Club. He was an avid collector of oil memorabilia. He found great joy in tractors, both in the fields and as part of the North Easthope Antique Tractor Breakfast Club, where he shared his passion with like-minded friends. He spent many enjoyable hours chatting with his St Mary’s Tim Horton’s friends.
Winters were spent in Arizona with Lorianne, where he played shuffleboard, pool, cards, and enjoyed time with dear friends—many of whom, like him, were farmers from the US Midwest. Wherever he went, Bob made fast friends, leaving a trail of laughter and warm memories in his wake.
Visitation for friends and family will be held at the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford on Wednesday, April 9, from 6-9 p.m. A celebration of Bob’s life will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, April 10, at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow. Interment at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, Moserville.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible hospice staff and volunteers who provided such special care and support to him and to all of us who loved him. Thank you for walking beside us with such love and compassion.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth in his memory.
Bob’s absence leaves a hole in the hearts of all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he leaves behind.
THANK YOU
Thank you Kingsway Lodge. Betty Freve has been a resident since 2012, coming from the Sudbury area. Betty celebrated her 103rd Birthday with a Grand Gathering of love, hugs, cakepops, a very special card and dancing. All organized by Missy Little and a team of friends, management, staff and volunteers.
Thank you so much Betty’s Family
William Inch
In loving memory of William Inch July 28 1954 - April 10 2017 Dad We think about you always, We talk about you still, You have never been forgotten, And you never will. We hold you close within our hearts, and there you will remain, to walk and guide us through our lives, Until we meet again, Love the entire family
Notice of Application for Approval to Expropriate Land
Form 2
Expropriations Act
In the matter of an application by the Ministry of Transportation for approval to expropriate land, pursuant to s.11(2) and subsection 11.1(3) of the Public Transportation and Highway Improvement Act, being in the Geographic Township of Fullarton, Municipality of West Perth, County of Perth, Province of Ontario. For the purpose(s) of: Property is required to accommodate Highway 23 Russeldale Intersection Improvements.
Notice is hereby given that application has been made for approval to expropriate the land described in the schedule attached hereto.
The approving authority is the Minister of Transportation with an address of:
Minister of Transportation
777 Bay Street, 5th Floor Toronto ON M7A 1Z8
416-327-9200
Any owner of lands in respect of which notice is given, who desires to comment on the proposed expropriation of the land for the described purpose(s) may do so by submitting the comment within the time stated herein to the Assistant Deputy Minister, Transportation Infrastructure Management Division, Ministry of Transportation, in writing.
The Ministry will review the comments for their technical/engineering information, having regard to the need for the land for the purposes of the project.
The Assistant Deputy Minister must receive the comments within thirty days after the owner is served with this notice, or within thirty days after the first publication of the notice.
The comments must be sent:
By e-mail to: Property.Process@ontario.ca
Or by mail to: Assistant Deputy Minister Transportation and Infrastructure Management Ministry of Transportation
4th Floor, Garden City Tower
301 St. Paul Street St. Catharines ON L2R 7R4
Please include the municipal address of the land in the comment.
The expropriating authority is the Minister of Transportation with an address of:
777 Bay Street, 5th Floor
Toronto ON M7A 1Z8
416-327-9200 Minister of Transportation
Per:
c/o Linda Wilson-Holmes Conveyancing Supervisor 659 Exeter Road 3rd Floor London ON N6E 1L3 226-688-7999
SCHEDULE A
All right, title and interest in the following lands:
1. All right, title and interest in the lands described as follows:
In the Municipality of West Perth, in the County of Perth, being Part of PIN 53212-0025 (LT), being Part of Lots 33 and 34, Concession North of Thames Road, Geographic Township of Fullarton, designated as PART 1 on Reference Plan 44R-6268 (P-2198-39).
2. All right, title and interest in the lands described as follows:
In the Municipality of West Perth, in the County of Perth, being Part of PIN 53219-0074 (LT), being Part of Lot 34, Concession North of Thames Road, Geographic Township of Fullarton, designated as PART 2 on Reference Plan 44R-6268 (P-2198-39).
3. A permanent limited interest, in the nature of a free right and easement for the purpose of enabling the erection and maintenance of a large traffic sign, in the lands described as follows:
In the Municipality of West Perth, in the County of Perth, being Part of PIN 53220-0010 (LT), being Part of Lot 34, Concession South of Thames Road, Geographic Township of Fullarton, designated as PART 1 on Reference Plan 44R-6287 (P-2198-43). THIS NOTICE WAS FIRST PUBLISHED ON: APRIL 3, 2025
LOOKING BACK
By Amy Cubberley
Cheers to lower taxes
25 years ago (2000)
Budgets without a tax increase could be taken for granted by St. Marys citizens after council delivered just such a document at the March 28 meeting, the eighth consecutive time this has happened. Two main factors were cited for allowing Council to keep status quo on taxes - a $466,000 surplus carried over from last year and a buoyant economy that has increased the industrial and residential tax assessment income by $72,000.
Police are asking for the public’s help with a problem that is on the increase in the Town of St. Marys. OPP Sgt. Bob Jackson reports 22 charges were laid for underage drinking during the month of March. This is a staggering increase from just 5 charges last March.
50 years ago (1975)
Three young high school girls, Cheryl Palmer, Susan Hiscock and Dawn Bennett from the Widder Street area, are out jogging every morning.
The Rotary Club is having a picture taking session at their meeting next Monday evening. Maurice Oliver, who is serving as the Club photographer, is hoping that all 45 members will be on hand plus “older hands” who are still part of the membership.
75 years ago (1950)
Delbert Louch, who keeps a record of river levels for the Department of Mines and Resources, says that according to his measurements the Thames rose over four feet at Park Street from midnight Monday till 9 am Tuesday.
George Aldis, Town Hall caretaker, has a novel potted plant in his office. The pot is in the form of an Irishman’s head on which Mr. Aldis plastered wet grass seed for hair and eyebrows. This grass seed has now grown two-inch sprouts, transforming the water-filled head into what resembles green hair and eyebrows. George reports that he has already given his plant a haircut.
100 years ago (1925)
The details of the beverage tax were announced in the Legislature on Tuesday afternoon. Stripped of technical terms, the tax means that 4.4 beer is to be taxed 10 cents a gallon; soft drinks and drinks containing up to 1% alcohol by volume 5 cents per gallon, and native wines 50 cents a gallon.
Rev. W.F. Duggan has accepted a call to the church in the west end of the of city of Palm Beach, Florida. The church is in connection with the old Historic Presbyterian Church of the Southern States.
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Wanted to buy
All collectibles including sports cards, beanie babies, Funko pops and stamps. Highest prices paid. Free appraisals.Are you downsizing or need an estate clean out? We can help. Call or text Stan anytime 519-868-3814.
Wanted
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi or any pop company. Brewery items - Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc.
Old radios and gramophones, wristwatches, pocket watches, old fruit jars - Beaver Star, Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signs - Red Indian, Supertest etc. Any small furniture. If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please contact me - 519-570-6920.
For Sale
Hundreds of shade trees, fruit trees, apples, pears, peaches, plums, sweet and sour cherries, apricots, nectarines, blueberries, haskapp grapes, raspberries, elderberries etc. Lots of spruce, pine, cedars for windbreak and privacy hedges. Sizes 1-8 ft. in containers ready to go. Flowering shrubs and much more. Mon-Sat 7:00am to 6:00pm. Martin’s Nursery, 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter, ON N0G 2X0 (1 Conc. North of Wroexter on Belmore Line)
Large 3 bedroom downtown apartment in 3 story walk up above Gilly’s, includes all utilities, wifi, laundry, parking. References required. Available April. Please call 519-697-4985
For Rent
Wildwood Care Centre (Retirement Living). Private room accommodations for Senior living available, can accommodate couples. Price $2800 to $4600 monthly. Meals, basic care, medication management and staff available 24/7. For tours call Lisa at 519-284-3628.
Local Lawn
Rolling
Local Lawn Rolling - reliable service, fair prices. Call 519-933-8636
For Sale
2 burial plots with deed, 2 vaults, gold cross certificate & memorial bronze marker located in Forest Lawn London. Today’s prices $13,000 - $15,000. Priced at $5,900 for quick sale. Please leave message 519-453-4917.
For Sale
2020 Giant Momentum Lafree Electric Bike. Metallic red with Black fenders. Odometer reads 2300 km. Asking $1800 obo, Curbside delivery- Cash only. Contact Larry DeNeve 519-274-1803
For Rent
2 bedroom, one bathroom upper unit of house available May 1st. Laundry and parking on site. $1950 per month + hydro and water. Contact amberleypd@yahoo.ca for application and viewing
HELP WANTED
LOCAL WOOD MOULDING COMPANY REQUIRES FULL TIME EMPLOYEE
Duties include material handling, setup and operation of moulder and peripheral equipment etc. Some heavy lifting. No experience required, will train.
If interested please email resume to: daleg@quadro.net. To start second or third week of April.
SUDOKU ANSWERS
Stratford Police Service
We currently have openings for the following position:
Please refer to the City of Stratford website at www.stratford.ca for details of the duties for this position, minimum qualifications, and application submission process.
Application forms will be available at the Stratford Police Service Administrative Centre at 789 Erie Street, Stratford, Ontario.
Completed application packages for this position will be accepted until 1600 hours on May 2, 2025.
Please mail or deliver completed applications to Stratford Police Service, 17 George Street West, Stratford, ON N5A 1A1 – Attn: Auxiliary Unit OR email to recruitment@stratfordpolice.com.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for testing will be contacted.
Auxiliary Police Constable HELP WANTED:
Warehouse and Parts Facilitator
Full time job Monday through Friday involves answering parts calls, receiving / shipping parts, organizing and maintaining warehouse, assembling equipment, and preparing for trade shows. Agricultural background an asset but not required. Must be able to work with little supervision. Better than competitive wages, with bene ts and pension plan.
Please submit resumes by e-mail to jobs@dfkequipment.com
