STRATFORD
SHERRIE ROULSTON
Real Estate Broker
email: sherrieroulston@royallepage.ca
Direct: 519-272-3578
Want to be part of new GTR community hub?
CONNOR LUCZKA
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A new review panel with members from the Stratford Public Library, the YMCA of Three Rivers and the City of Stratford will soon be meeting to review organizations wishing to be part of the Grand Trunk renewal (GTR) project’s planned community hub.
Earlier this year, council approved a $15 million commitment to a shared community facility on the grounds of the GTR site. Through partnerships with the Y (committing between $10-15 million) and library (committing between $4-5 million), the project is meant to be a shared space – though the scope and design of the community hub are still yet to be developed, leaving room for other organizations to partner with the city.
Stratford city council approved the review panel and the framework around the community’s participation at its July 13 council meeting. Emily Robson, corporate initiatives lead with the city, told council the review panel is meant to be a fair way to bring on more players that could benefit from the project and contribute to its completion.
“It's really just about understanding where and how we can engage with organizations across the community,” Robson said. “…The role of the review panel is to look at the submissions that come through this process, apply the criteria … to the submissions, and
Public meeting on zone change turns to
debate
on homelessness, youth mental health
CONNOR LUCZKA
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
On July 13, at 6:30 p.m. in Market Square, protesters gathered by a tent covered in signs reading “THIS IS NOT SHELTER.” As a collective, they were doggedly asking for Stratford city council to do more for the city’s unhoused.
“I've been having issues with my housing,” said youth protester Melanie Woods, holding a sign that demanded safe, affordable, dignified lodging. “It's been really dif-
ficult for me. You know, not having proper housing has been pretty terrible for me. It's done terrible things to my life, and I'm just angry about a lot of it.
“There's nothing I can do that's going to take back anything that's happened to me, but I think there are solutions that can make sure it doesn't have to happen to anyone else. So that's what I'm fighting for. That's what I that's what I want. I want no one to have to go through what I did. And unfortunately, there are people going through it right now, but they don't have to.”
A large crowd of cyclists gathered on Sunday, July 12 in Linwood to honour the late Steve Baechler in “Stevie B’s 2nd Annual Ride for Hospice.” The cyclists headed west from the Linwood Recreation Centre for about five to 60 kilometres (whichever they chose), raising money for Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Public meeting on zone change turns to debate on homelessness, youth mental health
The sentiments of the protest were carried over into a public meeting just an hour later.
The meeting was for a potential rezoning of the former St. Stephens Anglican Church located at 133 Home St. RGA & The Space Within, a local mental health and complementary health service currently at 153 and 157 Huron St. and 35 Market Pl., mean to use the church structure as a new clinic for counselling and small group counselling workshops. It is requesting council to permit only 12 parking spaces (rather than the required 17) and to allow a clinic and auditorium as additional permitted uses – although no member of the public spoke about those specific asks.
Instead, members of the public wanted more affordable housing, with many believing the space would be better suited as such.
“I think playing on the heartstrings about mental health issues and health care and everything else, frankly, is a little bit disingenuous because our health care has suffered traumatically,” Ken Wood said. “… What you're considering, and let’s really put the cards on the table, is having a for-profit counselling service, basically taking a church in a neighbourhood area
that would be ideal for housing.
“What kind of city do you want to build? Do you want to have a city where you've got residents that can live in this city? We need a whole transitional set of housing options. We need rooming houses. We need transitional housing. We need tiny homes.”
“The second main cause of death in our youth is mental health,” Tanner Bergsma said. “Yet the first barrier to accessing supports is financial. We can't afford it.
A lot of our residents in our city who are youth cannot afford to live. This is a crippling thing that we see across Canada. Yet, what are we doing about it? … I urge you to listen to your residents. You keep ignoring them. They keep telling you the same things. Yet, which do we prioritize, profit or other people?
“… They're asking for housing. They're asking for it to be used for housing. And if you put it through, what is your plan to get this housing under control? Because it will become a litigation issue on a national and international level if it's not managed, I promise you that. We, the youth, will not put up with this.”
After the public had a chance to provide comment, Morgan Kneider Patterson, on behalf of the Space Within and as a former teacher of some of those that spoke that evening, first congratulated many of the young people for expressing their opinion. She explained the reason the Space Within team sought this location was it is fully barrier-free
and accessible and nearby residential homes and government housing sites –meaning neighbours could walk to get support. The Space Within also provides pro bono work in an attempt to keep the barrier to access low.
“I understand that this is a really hot topic, one that I also am passionate about and am actively involved in, both on a personal level and helping other organizations in the community make sure that we're helping our unhoused,” Patterson said. “And so I see both points here and acknowledge
that we have a big issue in Stratford that seems to be getting bigger, and our intention by taking this is not to displace unhoused people. We're very compassionate and looking to help with that scenario.
“… It’s not perfect, and we never will get to perfect unless we can get all our heads together and think outside the box.”
No decision on the zone change was made at the meeting, nor did council members debate or give opinion on the matter. It will come back for council approval at a later date.
(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)
A protest outside of Stratford City Hall on July 13, prior to a council meeting in which many members of the public carried these sentiments into a public debate on homelessness and mental health.
GTR community hub?
the process safeguards is all about – how are we keeping track of our evaluation process? How are we producing the rationale for how we are making decisions or recommendations? … So it's really about applying that assessment criteria consistently and documenting that rationale.”
As explained in the report, the panel will assess strategic alignment, including mandate alignment, co-location value and role and scope fit. Organizations that demonstrate alignment and wish to be considered as potential foundational partners proceed to the second stage, which will assess capacity and readiness, including resource readiness, operating sustainability and organizational stability. If they passed the first stage but not the second, organizations may not be foundational partners, but could still be
involved as a facility user.
In addition to representatives from the library and Y, the panel will have chief administrative officer (CAO) André Morin, a representative from the city’s finance department, city staff experts who will provide information (but will not participate in the assessments) and Mayor Martin Ritsma. Despite Coun. Jo-Dee Burbach putting her name forward to be council’s representative on the panel, council chose Ritsma with only Burbach opposing.
The process will launch soon, according to the report, and be conducted over the summer. Staff intend to report back to council on Sept. 14 with recommendations and potential next steps.
For more information, or for the details of the framework, see the staff report included on the July 13 agenda: https:// tinyurl.com/ysspjjw2.
Province invests nearly $90K in Perth County through Rural Ontario Development program
Matthew Rae, Perth-Wellington MPP, met with Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program funding recipients at the Perth Farmhouse earlier this week.
The Ontario government is investing $89,468.06 to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Perth County, aiming to strengthen local economies, support rural workers and assist communities in planning for long-term growth.
Across the region, four projects are receiving funding through the first intake of the ROD program. Funding recipients include the Perth Farmhouse, Perth County, Broken Rail Brewing Company and Klomp's Home and Garden.
Casey and Steve Howanyk, owners of the Perth Farmhouse, said the funding will be used for architectural changes that will allow them to continue offering services during the shoulder season.
“It's incredible to receive the funds,” said Steve. “Without it, I don't know that we could have taken the leap to extend our operations. It would have taken a lot longer and a lot more sacrifices for us.”
Rae said the program demonstrates the provincial government's continued commitment to supporting rural and northern communities across Ontario.
“Strong rural communities are built through partnerships that support local businesses, encourage investment and create new opportunities,” said Rae. “This provincial funding will help Perth County
and its local businesses build on the great work already underway, strengthen the local economy and enhance the quality of life that makes our communities such great places to live, work and visit.”
Weekend Quiz
By Jake Grant
The Daytona 500 takes place in what U.S. state?
fire is known as what?
7. What is the primary mountain range in Iran?
8. Who is Percy Jackson's father?
9. What was used to fill thermometers before mercury?
10. What is the name for what an archer carries their arrows in?
Alongside the Perth Farmhouse, which received $10,000 to help diversify its winery for year-round tourism, Klomp's Home and Garden received $8,607.12 to increase roadside appeal, Broken Rail Brewing Company received $309.69 for equipment and accessibility expansion and Perth County Tourism received $70,551.25 for its ongoing wayfinding signage project throughout Perth County.
“When there are investments into our rural communities, the impact helps strengthen local economies, support small businesses and create an environment where tourists and locals alike can enjoy the amazing places and businesses close to home, and that matters not just here in Perth County, but across rural and northern communities,” said Rae.
Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is investing more than $5.5 million in 116 projects across rural Ontario. The Rural Ontario Development program supports local projects from municipalities, small businesses, not-forprofits and Indigenous groups. Since 2019, Ontario has invested $34.3 million in 653 projects through the ROD program and the former Rural Economic Development Fund.
The third intake for the ROD program opens Aug. 17, 2026. To learn more, visit ontario.ca.
Stratford volunteer recognized with provincial award
There are a number of local residents in the Stratford and Perth County areas who go above and beyond as a volunteer to help those in need and are recognized for the energy they use to help others.
One of those would be Stratford’s Dianne Walkom. This high energy and always-positive latest recipient of the prestigious June Callwood Award recognizes what it is to be an outstanding volunteer in helping anyone in need, wherever they may be.
Walkom was nominated by the Stratford-Perth Hospice Foundation this year for the award, which is one of Ontario‘s highest honours to recognize outstanding volunteer contributions to organizations they continually help out.
Walkom has done incredible work with the Hospice Palliative Care Unit at the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth.
Pippa Elliott from the foundation said that since the day the hospice opened its doors, Walkom has been a familiar and welcoming presence at the reception desk and also offers her help with co-ordinated fundraising events. She brings warmth, compassion and plenty of laughter to everything she does.
The communications and marketing coordinator for the foundation, Chelsey Gilchrist, also stated that Dianne embodies the value of hospice and has made a lasting impact on the organization and the community she continues to live in.
A ceremony was held
(AMANDA NELSON PHOTO)
Marty Klomp of Klomp's Home and Garden, Meredith Forget, director of economic development and tourism, Casey Howanyk of the Perth Farmhouse, Perth County Warden Dean Trentowsky, Justin Dias, economic development officer for Perth County, Steve Howanyk of the Perth Farmhouse and others pose in front of one of the 10 picture frame signs funded through the Rural Ontario Development program.
AMANDA NELSON Times Reporter
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
recently to honour Stratford’s Dianne Walkom with the June Callwood Award, recognizing her outstanding volunteer
and
many hours of contributions to the Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth Palliative Care Team. Her award came during a gala event recently in Richmond Hill, from two representatives that made the presentation on behalf of Hospice Palliative Care Ontario.
GARY WEST Times Correspondent
Annual downtown Stratford sidewalk sale brightens city’s core
EMILY STEWART
Times Correspondent
The streets of downtown Stratford were bustling with lots of pedestrians as the Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area (BIA) held its annual sidewalk sale on July 11.
More than 20 businesses including Diamond Dogs Records, Red Coral Fashions, Watson’s Chelsea Bazaar, Matilda Gallery and Art Bar, Totally Spok’d and Fanfare Books had special deals for keen shoppers.
“It gives a great vibe downtown. The streets seem full and electric,” said Jamie Pritchard, general manager of the BIA.
The BIA had a booth set up at Memorial Gardens where passersby could pick up free popcorn, receive temporary tattoos, enter to win some prizes like Stratford Festival tickets and downtown dollars, and play a fishing game.
Pritchard said that many residents came by and filled out ballots to win prizes. There were also tourists visiting from out of town including from Michigan and three separate tour bus loads
full of visitors.
“I haven't had a chance to get out and around and take any pictures yet, but the streets feel alive, they've got their streamers up and lots of great bargains in the streets,” Pritchard said during the interview.
The annual sidewalk sale has come and gone, but residents and tourists alike are still encouraged to visit downtown Stratford.
"Just come out and enjoy, walk the streets. If you haven't been down lately, learn, there's lots of new businesses down here, come down to one of the patios, grab some lunch, great world-class restaurants, amazing coffee shops. I just had a great iced coffee,” said Pritchard. “Just lots of great things to do."
Jake’s Lemonade stand was selling fresh homemade lemonade and iced tea by donation to raise money for Cassie + Friends Society, which supports those facing juvenile arthritis.
“Basically, they just help you through everything and it’s really nice,” said Jake Shiell, owner of Jake’s Lemonade Stand.
Jake was diagnosed with juvenile arthritis on his eighth birthday in 2021 and
ey since 2022.
Stratford Transit set for expansion after nearly $10M injection
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
The City of Stratford will have a greener, more efficient and user-friendly transit system after a joint investment of more than $9.7 million from the federal, provincial and municipal governments.
Representatives were in Stratford on July 13 for the tri-government announcement, with many highlighting the importance of collaboration.
“This investment announcement and today’s event is another important demonstration of how effective partnerships can have a greater impact on a community; the residents we serve and the environment where we live,” said Mayor Martin Ritsma in a media release.
The funding will be used to replace buses to improve the reliability, efficiency and environmental performance of the transit fleet. This includes replacing two existing conventional buses with 40 -foot hybrid buses, adding two additional 40 -foot hybrid- electric buses, replacing two eight-metre mobility buses and adding a new 24 -foot mobility bus to the fleet.
Funding will also support major upgrades to transit facilities to help the city manage its current transit needs and future growth. Work includes expanding and
modernizing a transit garage, expanding a bus storage facility by 10,000 -square -feet and replacing fuel tanks and a bus wash system with newer, more efficient equipment.
Additional funds will improve the customer service experience by making transit more reliable and accessible. This includes enhanced GPS systems on select buses, installing and upgrading 20 transit stops with shelters, and introducing a new mobile app to help all riders travel more independently and confidently.
The federal government is investing $3,914,840 for 14 projects in the City of Stratford through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Ontario is contributing $3,262,040, and the City of Stratford is contributing $2,610,220.
“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is investing $70 billion in the largest transit expansion in Canadian history so commuters here in Stratford and across the province can get where they’re going each day,” Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington, stated. “The investments announced today and the recent addition of daily GO Train service will strengthen Stratford’s transit network and keep people moving as we continue our work to protect Ontario.”
SHOP LOCAL. SAVE LOCAL
has been selling lemonade to raise mon-
In the past four years, he’s raised more than $12,000 for charity.
"It is one of the most common child-
hood diseases that there are about one in 70 kids in Canada are diagnosed before their 18th birthday,” said his mother Krista Shiell. “Kids just like Jake."
(EMILY STEWART PHOTO)
Jake Shiell of Jake’s Lemonade Stand was serving fresh lemonade and iced tea to raise money for Team Cassie + Friends, a charity supporting those living with juvenile arthritis.
Police drone helps Stratford officers locate missing person in Perth South
Earlier this month, the Stratford Police Service used drone technology to locate a missing person in Perth South.
After receiving a missing person report, several officers began searching the area after learning the individual was believed to be in medical distress.
The police drone was deployed around 11 p.m. as part of the search, leading to the safe location of the missing person, who was found in a cornfield.
The police drone provides a broader view of a search area, similar to a helicopter, said Const. Darren Fischer, community resource and media relations officer. It is particularly useful at night because of its heat-seeking technology.
“The drone provides a much broader view of an area; it's similar to what a helicopter can do,” said Fischer. “Utilizing the heat-seeking technology at night helped officers pinpoint where that individual was, which helped them walk to the right spot.”
Fischer said the quick actions of officers, combined with the use of the drone, ultimately saved the individual's life. He said the search and location of the missing person was greatly assisted by the drone technology.
“If the drone was not available, this search would have taken a significant amount of time in a gridstyle search,” said Fischer. “Because this person was in medical distress, the timeline to locate them was extremely important.”
At this time, a select number of officers have been trained to operate the technology, and the drone will continue to be used only in specific cases.
The Stratford Police Service has also used the drone to locate a wanted individual in the past. In that case, the drone also helped officers successfully locate the individual.
The missing person was transported to Stratford General Hospital for further medical care and is now safe.
CMHA gets provincial top up for infrastructure
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
The Ontario government is investing $570,053 between 2026 and 2028 to complete upgrades and repairs at the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth – Addiction and Mental Health Services, creating a safer, more comfortable space for people and their families to connect to care and services, close to home. This funding is part of Ontario’s broader investment of nearly $15 million through the Community Infrastructure Fund (CIRF) to support infrastructure upgrades, maintenance and repairs at 67 community health service providers across the province.
“The Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth – Addiction and Mental Health Services plays a vital role in supporting individuals and families across Perth County,” said MPP Matthew Rae of Perth-Wellington in a media release. “This investment will help strengthen the organization’s ability to deliver high-quality mental health and addiction services, ensuring more people can access the care and support they need close to home.”
The CIRF enables health-care system partners to address their urgent infrastructure needs including upgrading or replacing roofs, windows, security systems, fire alarms and emergency generators. Since 2018, the Ontar-
io government has doubled its investment, allowing more community-based health service providers to repair and modernize their infrastructure and preserve their operational capacity.
“Our government is making historic investments to protect Ontario’s health-care system, ensuring that more people in Perth and Huron counties can connect to the care they need, where and when they need it,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “This investment will enable the Canadian Mental Health Association Huron Perth – Addiction and Mental Health Services to address priority infrastructure needs so patients and their families can continue to access vital services and care in their community.”
Over the next 10 years, Ontario is investing approximately $64 billion in major health infrastructure. This is part of the government’s plan to get shovels in the ground on more than 50 major hospital projects across the province, which will deliver approximately 3,000 new hospital beds to enhance access to quality care and build a connected, people-first health-care system.
Through Your Health: A Plan For Connected and Convenient Care, Ontario is expanding and modernizing hospitals and building new health-care facilities, making it faster and easier for people of all ages to connect to the high-quality care they need, where and when they need it.
June unemployment rate in region decreases to
5.6%, now 2nd lowest
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
In June, the unemployment rate in the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula economic region decreased by 0.3 percentage points to 5.6 per cent, while the provincial unemployment rate also decreased by 0.3 percentage points to 7.1 per cent, both unadjusted for seasonality. The region’s unemployment rate was the second lowest across the province. Total employment in the region remained the same, at 168,200, with gains in full-time employment (+2.5 per cent; +3,400) offset by losses in part-time employment (-9.9 per cent; -3,300).
In June, the region’s overall population aged 15 or older increased by 400 whereas the labour force size decreased by 500 people. The number of people not in the labour force in the region increased by 900. This in turn reduced the region’s participation rate by 0.3 percentage points to 60.1 per cent. Employment in the region increased in the goods-producing sector (+3 per cent; +1,900) yet decreased in the services-producing sector (-1.8 per cent; -1,900)
The goods-producing sector saw an increase in overall employment numbers in June (+3 per cent; +1,900). Gains were experienced in manufacturing (+12.9 per cent; +2,600) and agriculture (+9.1 per cent; +700) while
losses were reported in construction (-5.4 per cent; -1,100) and Utilities (-0.7 per cent; -100).
Overall employment in the services-producing sector saw a decrease of -1.8 per cent (-1,900 people) in June. Business, building and other support services experienced the largest percentage decrease in employment (-15.8 per cent; -600), followed by health care and social assistance (-11.8 per cent; -2,300) and accommodation and food services (-0.8 per cent; -700). On the other hand, professional, scientific and technical services experienced the largest percentage increase in employment (+11.9 per cent, +1,000), followed by finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing (+10.9 per cent, +700) and information, culture and recreation (+10.7 per cent, +600).
“Although we are not the lowest rate this month, the decreases we are seeing are very concerning specifically in health care as this is not an isolated change and will affect our regions services at this rate,” said Dana Skirten, CEO for the Four County Labour Market Planning Board, in its monthly report. “For the past four months we have seen losses in health care and social assistance that are alarming. In February, employment sat at 27,900 to what we see now in June at 17,200.”
Current job postings for the Bruce, Grey, Huron, Perth region is just over 1,000. Details can be found at www.connect2JOBS.ca.
HPPH seeks feedback on sexual health clinics
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) is seeking input on its sexual health clinic services. Residents of Huron and Perth counties are invited to share their feedback through an online survey that opened on July 13.
Any Huron or Perth County resident may complete the survey, whether or not
they have ever attended an HPPH sexual health clinic.
“We want to hear from community members about what is working well and where there may be opportunities to improve,” said Reba Oldridge, public health promoter at HPPH, in a media release. “Feedback from both clients and non-clients will help us better understand residents’ experiences, identify potential barriers to access, and improve sexual
health services for residents across Huron and Perth.”
The anonymous and confidential survey takes five to 10 minutes to complete. Participants will have the option to enter a draw for a chance to win one of three $50 gift cards.
The survey can be accessed directly from https://tinyurl.com/yckytkpm, or through a link on the sexual health clinics webpage, www.hpph.ca/sexualhealth.
It will be open through the summer. HPPH sexual health clinics are located in Clinton, Exeter, Goderich, Listowel and Stratford. Clinics offer confidential and inclusive services, including testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections, low-cost birth control, pregnancy testing and options counselling, emergency contraception, cervical screening and referrals to other health services.
AMANDA NELSON Times Reporter
Perth County paramedics launch summer care kits for people experiencing homelessness
ple that our crews could carry and provide in the moment, when someone needs a little extra support," she said.
While responding to a call, Perth County paramedic Nicole Player recognized a need in the community and decided to bring the idea forward to the Perth County Paramedic Services Community Care Fund.
"The idea for the community care kits came from a call I attended for someone experiencing homelessness who declined transport to the hospital," she said. "As paramedics, we often respond to calls where the person doesn't end up needing or wanting to be transported to the hospital. We were in a rural part of the county where access to community resources can be limited, and it didn't sit right with me to leave knowing we couldn't offer anything beyond medical care."
She said the experience inspired her to develop an initiative to distribute care kits containing summer essentials to individuals experiencing homelessness.
"The goal was to create something sim-
The care kits are intended to provide relief by supplying much-needed items during the summer months. Each kit includes sunscreen, electrolyte beverages, bug spray and personal care items to help individuals stay safe, hydrated and healthy, particularly during periods of hot weather.
The initiative is funded through the Perth County Paramedic Services Community Care Fund, which supports projects and initiatives that improve the well-being of vulnerable residents throughout Perth County.
The fund was established in 2015 after paramedics noticed many people wanted to express their gratitude through monetary donations or gifts. Instead, Perth County Paramedic Services created the fund to accept donations that could be reinvested into the community. The fund is also supported through payroll contributions from paramedics.
"When someone brings forward an initiative, like Nicole, we have funds available to help," said Tristan Barter, deputy chief of operations with Perth County Paramedic Services. "The suggestion is brought to the committee, and we decide how to use the funds to help the community."
Other initiatives supported by the fund include Christmas hampers, assistance for families and children in need, taxi rides for people who cannot afford transportation to and from the hospital, dry socks for people experiencing homelessness and food vouchers.
"We really try to talk to people and learn what our communities need," said Debbie Hunter, deputy chief of mobile integrated health supporting the Community Paramedic Program in Perth County. "Whether that's kids, older adults, those experiencing homelessness or even someone working outside all summer, we want to help everyone."
Beyond the physical items in the care kits, Player said they provide another op -
portunity for paramedics to connect with vulnerable members of the community and start conversations.
"I hope these care kits remind people that they're seen and that someone cares," said Player. "Sometimes a bottle of water, sunscreen or bug spray won't solve the challenges someone is facing, but it can make their day a little easier and show compassion in a moment when it's needed most.
"At the end of the day, we're all members of the same community, and everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness and respect."
In addition to personal care items, the kits include information on accessing local community support services. A total of 100 care kits will be distributed by Perth County paramedics throughout the summer.
For more information or to donate to the Perth County Paramedic Services Community Care Fund, visit the Perth County website at https://tinyurl.com/3rnn5j4t
Huron District Freemasons donate to local hospice
funds for the three brick and mortar hospices located in Huron and Perth counties.
The role of district deputy grand master of the Freemasons is a prestigious honour to have and one that R.W. Bro. Jamie McFadden took very seriously as he’s finishing his year in the role.
As his term comes to a close, McFadden shared that one of his goals was to resurrect and spearhead a chosen charity to support throughout his year as district deputy grand master of the Huron District Freemasons. What he picked was to raise
The Masonic Foundation of Ontario topped up the amount raised by 33 per cent, bringing the grand total to $10,500. This amount was split evenly in three ways with $3,500 going to Huron Hospice in Clinton, Jessica’s House Hospice in Exeter and Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth in Stratford.
Last Wednesday, McFadden and Huron District Secretary W. Bro. Cliff Anderson travelled to all three locations presenting
cheques to the executive directors for the hospices who were all very grateful for the donation. Funds donated to the hospices will help towards the associated costs of running the facilities. The hospices all need to raise a substantial amount each year to keep them going.
In 2017, the South Huron district deputy master at the time ran a charity for Jessica’s House. McFadden said if he were to ever take on the role, he would want to do something similar and thanks to the added 33 per cent from the foundation, McFad-
den was thrilled with what was accomplished.
The Freemasons are a brotherhood of all faiths that focus on making good men better and believe strongly in helping others.
The Ontario Masons are made up of 38 districts with the first recorded Canadian member being from the mid 1600s. The Huron District is made up of Stratford, St. Marys, Listowel, Goderich, Carlow, Ailsa Craig, Granton, Mitchell and Exeter. The local club is alive with tradition, service and spirit.
AMANDA NELSON Times Reporter
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Perth County paramedics Nicole Player, Lucy Kus and Jodi Grobbecker display the summer care kits that will be distributed to individuals experiencing homelessness throughout Perth County. The kits include sunscreen, electrolyte beverages, bug spray and personal care items to help support vulnerable residents during the summer months.
WENDY LAMOND Times Correspondent
‘Nothing but praise’: Muirstone Living experience positive reception to Hawthorne apartment sneak peak
"You can touch them with your fingers and it doesn't leave a mark, so that's pretty handy,” Muir said.
New resort-inspired apartments are coming to Stratford and hundreds of interested guests got to take a look at the model suites recently.
Muirstone Living held a sneak peek event for their Hawthorne apartments, which will be at McCarthy Road W and Orr Road, on July 11. More than 300 registered guests got a chance to look at the one- and two-bedroom units and learned more about the building’s amenities.
“Our biggest problem is getting people out of the model suites so that we can get the next bunch in because everybody is already planning how they're going to set up their furniture, so it's been quite amazing. Nothing but praise,” said Bill Muir, head of marketing and brand manager at Muirstone.
Most guests expressed interest in a two-bedroom suite. Each apartment unit will have one free parking spot for tenants, ensuite laundry and stainless-steel appliances that are mark-less.
The Hawthorne will be pet-friendly and feature a full-sized gym, two indoor lounge areas, a dining area with a kitchen, a games room, a pet washing station and a mailroom. Outside, tenants can spend time at the gazebo with a fireplace and mounted TVs, outdoor lounge areas, firepits with Muskoka chairs, barbecues, a putting area and courts to play either bocce ball or pickleball.
"There's a lot to do at Hawthorne,” Muir said.
He added that the quality of the apartments mean Hawthorne and Stratford are a good match.
“Stratford is known for quality and the Hawthorne goes along with the theme of Stratford,” said Muir.
Rental rates start at $1,875/month for a one-bedroom unit. The Hawthorne apartments are expected to be move-in ready by fall of 2026. More information can be found online by visiting http://hawthornestratford.ca.
Here For Now Festival review: Ghosts of My House
offers
a bleak look at grief and moving on
How can a family move on when grief seems to be tearing apart its very foundation piece by piece?
Playwright Susanna Fournier and director Leora Morris ask that question in their world-premiere production of Ghosts of My House this season at Here For Now Theatre in Stratford.
Centering on a family reeling from the not so recent death of B (Sarah Wilson), the eldest daughter of Mum (Laura de Carteret) and sister to L (Siobhan O’Mally), the youngest sibling, and M (Kelly Van der Burg), the middle sibling, the story told on stage follows the four women as they try to cope with their grief after such a devastating loss.
But it isn’t just the loss that’s weighing them down. A brother who never appears onstage is losing himself to mental illness and becoming increasingly unstable and dangerous, refusing to take his medication. Mum is locked in a seemingly never-ending argument with the ghost (or maybe the memory) of her dead daughter, isolating herself from the rest of the world, drinking heavily and contemplating suicide. L and M, meanwhile, are doing their best to hold the family together even though they, themselves, are struggling with grief. M is burning herself out by working too hard and spending every moment she has to herself trying to take care of her mother and preparing the house to go up for sale
to solve Mum’s money problems; and L is dealing with the guilt she feels for leaving her crumbling family to go off and find a life for herself while also trying to reconnect with her estranged father – a point of contention between her, L and their mother.
And B, whether she is in fact a ghost or something even less tangible, is struggling to come to terms with her own death, the result of anorexia-induced heart failure.
Though she wants to move on to whatever comes next, she finds herself still mired in her mother’s darkness, trying and failing to set her on a path back towards the light.
Like many of Here For Now Theatre’s plays, this production doesn’t rely on an elaborate set or fancy props. Minus the two prop guns stored in the family’s safe, the only props used on stage could be found in the back of a family minivan after a Saturday of shopping – two bags of dirt, two
dozen small, potted flowers, a bottle of gin, a family size bag of chips, about a dozen empty mason jars and a few other inconsequential items.
Instead, the production relies almost entirely on the raw emotion and chemistry between each member of the cast, heightened and enhanced by sudden changes in lighting. The play’s excitement lives in the desperate arguments between mother and daughter, sister and sister as they hold on desperately to the systems and social expectations that have only served to tear them further apart.
As they each approach their breaking point, on the verge of the family fracturing in ways it may not be able to come back from, their love for one another allows them to open up about how their feeling, ask for the help they need and work towards letting go of the grief that has kept them trapped for too long.
B, meanwhile, learns she needs to look after herself and let go of her perceived responsibility for her mother to find eternal rest.
Though this play ends on a positive note with the symbolic planting of flowers in the dirt, which earlier in the story was said to represent grief, this play is an emotional roller coaster with more downs than ups. Yet through it all, it’s the women’s strength and love for each other that allow them to see a path forward, let go and move on. Ghosts of My House plays at Here For Now Theatre until July 19.
(EMILY STEWART PHOTO)
Bill Muir, head of marketing and brand manager of Muirstone Living, stands in front of one of the Hawthorne apartment buildings during the sneak peak event on July 11.
EMILY STEWART Times Correspondent
(HERE FOR NOW THEATRE PHOTO)
Kelly Van der Burg and other members of the cast in Ghosts of My House at Here For Now Theatre.
GALEN SIMMONS
Regional Editor
Stratford company helps Baden building find new life as global auction studio
Once a space for hidden gems and antiques, 8 Foundry St. in Baden – the Miller Antiques building – has been transformed from a former family-run antique shop into a studio for Miller & Miller’s livestream auction broadcasts featuring high-value collectables, art, antiques and other treasures.
The building has been part of the Miller family's history for decades. Originally a hardware store, it became an antique shop for much of the 20th century. It was owned by Hap Veach, who married a granddaughter of Castle Kilbride founder James Livingston. Through that connection, Veach acquired many artifacts from Castle Kilbride, which he sold from the shop.
“James was the famous Castle Kilbride Flax King,” said Ethan Miller, owner. “When Hap married, his wife came with all of the treasures from Castle Kilbride. So they spent a lot of their life selling those relics that they found stored in the attic.”
In the mid-1970s, Jim Miller, father of current owners Ethan and Justin Miller, purchased the building after first working for Veach refinishing furniture. The building then became home to J.C. Miller Antiques, and many original features, including the light fixtures and antique storefront sign, remain today as part of the family's identity and heritage.
“The joke was Hap wanted my dad to purchase the shop with the inventory at the time, and my dad said I'm happy to buy the shop, but you're on your own with the inventory, so he wasn't too happy about that,” said Ethan. “I know that the two of them had a great relationship, though.”
The family business began as a traditional antiques dealership, buying and reselling antiques through industry connections. However, the arrival of eBay dramatically changed the antiques industry by creating a centralized online marketplace. Sellers no longer needed dealers to connect them with buyers, forcing many antique businesses to adapt.
“The antiques industry has changed dramatically over the last 25 years,” said Ethan. “Dad's cohort of people could make a living buying and selling antiques, and they did so because of something economists would call information asymmetry. In other words, they knew where inventory was, and they knew where the buyers were, and so they were able to pair the two and make a living out of buying something for a low price and selling it for a high price.”
“Around 1995, when eBay came out, all of those asymmetries related to information started to disappear because there was the centralized marketplace where people could bring their things, and suddenly all of the secrets that at one time
were powerful to know disappeared.”
After Jim Miller passed away in 2011, the family briefly tried to revive the building as a destination antique store but realized that retail antiques had already declined significantly.
Instead, they shifted to an auction model, acting as agents on behalf of consignors rather than purchasing inventory themselves, which led them to their warehouse location in New Hamburg.
Today, Miller & Miller Auctions has grown to about 19 full-time employees, led by Ethan, Justin and Ethan’s wife, Aki Ohtsuka.
The Miller brothers kept the original building in Baden, knowing the space's history could be used in some capacity.
Now, the team at Ballinran Entertainment from Stratford has transformed the space into a live auction venue, noting that the historic site is ideal for broadcasting across North America and worldwide.
Rather than housing inventory, the studio serves as a professional broadcast space where auctions are livestreamed to bidders around the world. Items are displayed digitally on screen for bidders, with everything handled behind the scenes.
“The building was empty for so long and walking into this space and seeing it bustling with activity: there were people taking bids, there was an entire production crew, there were some assistants that were doing phone bids, there could be as many
as 20 people in here,” said Ethan. “To walk into a space that has been, in some ways, lonely and lost – it was really neat to open the door and to see that life and energy.”
Keeping the historic J.C. Miller Antiques sign and preserving the building was important to Miller because they reflect the family's roots. On auction days, the space now fills with auctioneers, production staff, phone bidders and media crews – sometimes as many as 20 people – bringing energy back into the building.
“This building is a part of our identity; it's a part of our heritage,” said Ethan. “It's a building that means a lot to us, and certainly having that signage there speaks to the fact that we have great memories of this place.”
Miller said that while his father may not have agreed with every business decision along the way, he believes he would ultimately have appreciated how the family successfully adapted the business while honouring its history.
“He was always trying to predict how interesting the next five or 10 years would be,” said Ethan, speaking about his late father. “I think in some ways he would be absolutely shocked. He would probably say we made decisions, many that he probably would have disagreed with, but when all the dust settles, and you stand back and you look at the result, I think he would nod his head and say it all made sense.”
(AMANDA NELSON PHOTO)
The historic Baden building that once housed J.C. Miller Antiques now serves as a professional broadcast space where Miller & Miller Auctions hosts livestream auctions for bidders around the world.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
A production crew from Ballinran Entertainment works behind the scenes during a Miller & Miller Auctions livestream event at the historic Baden building.
AMANDA NELSON Times Reporter
Project Carlos leads to drug seizure, flight of suspect
STAFF stratfordtimes@gmail.com
In the spring of 2026, the Stratford Police Service Street Crime Unit (SCU) began an investigation into the trafficking of controlled substances in Stratford, titled “Project Carlos.”
On April 27, a 37-year-old male resident of London, a 32-year-old female resident of Stratford and a 53-year-old male resident of Stratford were arrested by the SCU and were found to be in possession of a substantial quantity of controlled substances, according to police.
All three parties were charged with Controlled Drugs and Substances Act offences and held for bail hearings, before being released from custody at the Ontario Court of Justice. The 37-year-old male was bound by conditions to be subject to GPS monitoring via an ankle monitor.
On June 9, the 37-year-old, now identified as Joshua Wensley, cut off his ankle monitor and fled the city. His current whereabouts are unknown, and he is currently wanted on several arrest warrants.
Further investigation by the SCU determined that the controlled substances were being supplied to the city by a 44-year-old male resident of London. On July 7, the 44-year-old was arrested by London Police Service Emergency Response Unit (ERU).
Further on July 7, the SCU, with the assistance of Stratford ERU, London Police Service Guns and Gangs, London Police
Service MSU and London Police Service
Uniform Section executed three search warrants at residences in the City of London. During the execution of the search warrants, a 45-year-old female resident of London was also arrested.
The arrests and search warrants yielded the following seizure:
- 534.3 grams of crystal methamphetamine;
- 11.2 grams of fentanyl;
- 20.7 grams of cocaine;
- 6 grams of crack cocaine;
- 271 X 4mg hydromorphone pills
- 43 X 30mg codeine pills;
- 38 X 0.5mg clonazepam pills;
- A crossbow with arrows;
- A replica handgun (BB pistol); and
- $9535 Canadian currency
The total street value of controlled substances seized over the course of the investigation is $37,634.
The 44-year-old male resident of London and 45-year-old female resident of London were charged with several Controlled Drugs and Substances Act offences and later released on Undertakings.
The Stratford Police Service would like to thank the London Police Service for their assistance in this investigation. The successful result of this multi-jurisdictional investigation would not have been possible without their support, and this investigation reflects the value of collaboration between police services to combat drug trafficking in the community, according to the release.
STRATFORD TIMES
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Some of the drugs and paraphernalia seized as part of the execution of Project Carlos in Stratford and London.
Nearing one year anniversary, Specsavers owner ‘blown away’ by community
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
Although the U.K.-based and family-owned glasses company Specsavers has been around for 40 years, it has only been in Canada since 2021. Stratford’s shop, located in the Stratford Mall, is even younger, having opened in September of last year.
Since opening their doors, owner Meron Hrycusko has been “blown away” by the community’s kindness.
“Everybody in Stratford seems to have a unique story that's been wonderful to learn about and talk to and share,” Hrycusko shared with the Times. “It's a great place. It's something that's kind of missing in a digital world where I've spent most of my life doing marketing and advertising and social media outreach. It's really nice to connect with people.”
Specsavers is a global optometrist brand with two sides to it: the optometry side and the retail side, the latter of which is Hrycusko’s focus at his store. Without an optometrist partner, his store takes prescriptions from all eye care professionals, including those which work with him on short-term bases. As Hrycusko said, their focus is customer experience.
“One of the things I bring and take pride in is customer experience and service,” he said. “I have made customer experience my life. I learned from some of the best … and my staff and I put a real emphasis on ensuring the customer experience is smooth. … We pride ourselves on the customer experience and doing our best. Everybody's unique and needs to be taken care of.”
Hyrcusko has an entrepreneurial background and has headed up the digital marketing division of Brock University and HearCANADA. He did not always envision himself as a retail partner for Specsavers – or even being in Stratford at all. His wife, Kelly Smyth, grew up in Stratford and always wanted to move back. When the opportunity to become a retail partner with Specsavers back in his wife’s hometown arose, it was a leap of faith, but one that is bringing them closer to the Festival City.
Additionally, working with a company which has values aligned with his own was a win-win. From $149 and up, all frames purchased comes with a second pair free with single-vision lenses, meaning that they offer affordable prices when compared to other brick-and-mortar retailers. As a physical location, it also ensures that the customer experience will always be front and centre.
“The online business is expanding, so what you're missing there is the human, personal measurements and touch and the experience with dealing with people,” Hrycusko said. “And that's the other thing why I really like the Specsavers model, was because they have a huge emphasis on customer service and customer experience. They believe, again, you're putting your hard-earned money forward, and you shouldn't have a pair of glasses that just sit in your drawer.”
When asked what the future holds for Specsavers, Hrycusko said he hopes to continue serving the community – and it continues to be the incredible place he has experienced so far.
“If I look at one year and I reflect back, I'm amazed of how incredible the community's been and how many friendships I've made, not just serving people their glasses, but we have people come in to stop in and say hi,” Hrycusko said. “I've had people come in and watch the Olympic hockey game with me or a FIFA game while it's quiet.
“People are just incredible in Stratford. We met some incredibly wonderful people, and the community has been nothing but welcoming, and I hope for that to continue, and I hope for us to be able to still serve the community at such a high level.”
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
LEGION 100 1926-2026
Legion celebrates 100th anniversary
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
Over 650,000 Canadians served in the First World War, many giving the ultimate sacrifice and never returning to their homes. The survivors were welcomed home as heroes but were left to fend for themselves to obtain the medical care, financial support and social services they desperately needed. They did so by forming local veterans’ associations – and in the process laid the foundations for what, in 1926, would become the Canadian Legion.
Fast forward 100 years, and in 2026 the legion is woven into the very fabric of Canadian society, making sure that the nation remembers the service and sacrifice from its veterans from coast to coast to coast.
In honour of the centenary, the legion is celebrating its long history. A new interactive website was launched (legion.ca/ourstory), which highlights about 50 key dates and milestones for the legion.
The website is organized in three main sections: Foundations and Advocacy (1914-1936); Postwar Rehabilitation and National Growth (1939-1984); and Modern Era and New Veterans (1990-present). Users can view the site in chronological order or by easily navigating directly to a year or event in the legion’s history that interests them.
566 Queen St. E., St Marys, ON N4X 1A4 Phone: 519-284-4348 Toll Free: 1-866-222-4843
305 Romeo St. S., Stratford, ON N5A 4T8 Phone: 519-271-6700
“We are very proud of this website, but most importantly, proud of the story that it tells,” said Berkley Lawrence, the legion’s dominion president, in an announcement. “The story of the legion over its first century is a story of impact – for veterans, for our communities and for Canada. We encourage everyone to visit the website, to learn more about our work, and to join us as we enter our second century.”
New branded items are available on the legion’s online store for the centenary. A giveaway sweepstakes to win a Ford F-150 truck launched, courtesy of the centenary partner Ford Dealers of Canada. The Royal Canadian Mint released gold and silver commemorative collector coins and a collector set.
Free membership rolled out for the centenary as well, ushering 100,000 new members nationally in just half a year.
“We couldn’t have hoped for a better outcome!” Lawrence said. “The increase in support across the country is an exciting development, bringing with it new energy, new ideas and great momentum as we head into our next century of service to our veterans, families and communities.”
Having started locally in Stratford in October, much of the local celebrations will be done in the fall, ahead of the annual Remembrance Day celebrations.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 8 is holding its celebration weekend from Oct. 16-18.
A tombola (casino) night kicks off festivities on Oct. 16. Doors open at 6 p.m., play starts at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation.
On Oct. 17 there will be a full-day’s worth of events. The legion will lay a wreath at the cenotaph at 9:30 a.m. prior to a bench dedication at 9:45 a.m.
The legion will be open all day to visitors, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. There will be a barbecue from noon to 2 p.m. (by donation), cake cutting at 2 p.m., a meat draw from 4-5:30 p.m. and a dance to Strings ‘n Traps from 7-10 p.m. (by donation). The open house continues Oct. 18, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. A roast beef dinner is scheduled for that evening. Reception starts at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m.
Tickets for the dinner go on sale Sept. 4, set for $30 a person.
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS
STRATFORD SPORTS
18U Nationals rise to occasion with winning week, and prepare for London
MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY Times Correspondent
It was a winning week for the Stratford 18U Nationals, as the squad posted three wins in four games against the Woodstock Wranglers and the Caledonia Bears.
On July 8, the Nationals travelled to Woodstock to face the Wranglers. Stratford got on the board in the first inning when James Robinson scored from second base, crossing home plate just before Dawson Davidson was tagged out in a rundown at second.
Woodstock tied the game in the second inning and took the lead in the third, but the Nationals responded with four runs in the next inning. Daniel Hovius’ RBI single cut the Woodstock lead to one, and then Nolan Miller scored on a Colin Priestap groundout to tie the game.
With two outs, Finley Newton hit an RBI single, allowing Hovius to score and giving the Nationals the lead. An RBI single from Reed Bowles added insurance for the Nationals, giving the visitors a 5-3 lead into the bottom of the fourth.
Alex Everett scored the sixth run of the game for the Nationals in the fifth, and the Nationals put on their offensive muscle with six in the sixth inning, and one more in the third en route to a 16-4 rout.
All 10 members of the starting lineup for the nationals recorded a hit, with Bowles leading the team’s 16-hit barrage with four, while Priestap led the team with three RBIs. Robinson threw 107 pitches over six innings, recorded four strikeouts and allowed three earned runs on three walks and four hits. Hovius preserved the win with a perfect seventh inning.
Both teams renewed their acquaintances on July 11 at Woodstock. Stratford scored two runs in the second inning after consecutive RBI singles from Owen Brooks and Everett. Woodstock scored a single run in the next three innings, putting themselves ahead 3-2 heading into the seventh.
Stratford staged their comeback with
one out in the seventh and final inning. After a Woodstock defensive error allowed Bowles to reach first and Everett to reach third, Cooper Yantzi’s groundball single allowed Everett to score and tie the game at three apiece. Then, with two outs, the Nationals retook the lead after Davidson hit a two-RBI triple.
Everett pitched the clean bottom half of the seventh to secure the comeback 5-3 win. Stratford starting pitcher Brooks pitched five innings, threw 76 pitches, struck out three and allowed two earned runs on one walk and seven hits.
On July 12, the Nationals continued their road trip with a stop in Caledonia to face the Bears. Stratford had a rough defensive showing with six errors, three in the first inning and couldn’t muster significant offence in the 13-3 loss. Robinson and Everett each had two hits to lead the Nationals, while Davidson and Everett provided the RBIs for the visitors in the loss.
The Nationals finished off their busy week on July 13 with their third game in six days against Woodstock, this time at Stratford National Stadium.
The Wranglers took an early 2-0 lead off the Stratford starting pitcher Everett in the second inning. Nolan Miller provided the RBI single to put the Nationals on the board in their half of the second.
After a scoreless third and fourth innings, the visitors added two more in the top of the fifth. Brooks notched a two-out RBI single to cut the Woodstock lead in half in the bottom of the inning.
Stratford was stymied by Woodstock for the majority of the game, but saved their best for last in the bottom of the ninth.
The comeback started when Yantzi singled to lead off the inning, Robinson fought back from an 0-2 count to draw a walk, and Davidson reached first on an error, loading the bases for the Nationals. Everett then hit a two-RBI double to even
the score at 4-4. After Miller was intentionally walked to load the bases, Hovius executed a perfect square bunt, enabling the speedy Davidson to score from third and secure the win.
Everett pitched six effective innings, striking out eight batters and giving up four earned runs on six hits. Bowles held the Wranglers to just two hits over three relief innings, recording six strikeouts. Everett also led the Nationals with two RBIs, while Miller, Hovius and Brooks each contributed one RBI for Stratford.
Following the game, a very pleased Stratford head coach Mud Grasby says the team showed significant growth during the week.
“Very happy with it. We put some good at-bats together in the last inning. Put four hits together to score three runs, so it worked out well,” Grasby said.
“We're starting to hit the ball, and we're not making as many mistakes as we used to. In the game we lost (Caledonia), we made seven (six) errors again. You can't win when you're making that many errors. If you're making one a ball game, you can battle and that's what we've been doing lately. Is playing pretty decent defence. I've been getting good pitching, but we're really hitting the ball.”
The Nationals improved their Inter County Baseball Association (ICBA) regular-season record to 9-12. Next up for the Nationals is competing at the 10th Annual London Talons Baseball Tournament in London from July 17-19. Stratford will be competing in Pool B with the London 17U Talons, Peterborough Tigers and Innisfil Cardinals.
The Nationals begin their tournament play against the 17U Talons on the afternoon of July 17. On July 18, Stratford faces Peterborough in the morning game and wraps up their round-robin schedule against Innisfil in the late-afternoon game.
The top two teams from each group advance to the tournament semifinals and finals on July 19.
McCann, Goebel and company provided an eventful week
The Stratford 15U Nationals had an entertaining slate of results this past week, picking up three of the six possible points in the Inter County Baseball Association (ICBA) 15U Tier 1 League standings.
It started when the Stratford 15U Nationals, led by Landon McCann's five-RBI performance, overcame a sluggish start and mounted a late-innings comeback, settling for a draw with the Ancaster Angels at Stratford National Stadium on July 9.
The Angels took advantage of the Strat-
ford defensive miscues and of starting pitcher Carter Cook, scoring eight runs through the first three innings. With the Angels leading 10-0 through four innings, the Nationals got on the board when McCann hit a two-run RBI single and Cook hit an RBI single during the three-run inning.
After Ancaster added two more runs in the top of the fifth, Stratford began their comeback. Facing a potential league-mandated mercy rule in their half of the inning, Will Molenhuis hit an RBI triple, then McCann hit a three-run home run to centre-right field and Reid Mussleman capped off the inning with a two-out
two-run RBI single, closing the deficit to four runs, with Ancaster leading 13-9.
In the sixth inning with two outs, Cole Morris’ two-run RBI single pulled the Nationals to within two. Stratford completed the comeback in the final inning of regulation on a bases-loaded walk, allowing Cook to score from third, and Marek Brander tied the game on a fielder’s choice. The Nationals had a chance to win the game, but Jackson Goebel couldn't beat the throw to first.
Ancaster regained the lead in the extra inning after Stratford reliever Goebel issued a bases-loaded walk on a close 3-2 pitch. Max Barter came on in relief and
prevented further damage by forcing the Angels to an inning-ending double play. Stratford responded in the bottom half on a sacrifice fly from Dexter Powell, allowing Goebel to score from third. Cook was issued an intentional walk to load the bases, but a Musselman flyout ended the game.
After the game, Stratford coach Rick Boon highlighted the team’s late-game comeback but stressed that the defensive issues need to be corrected before the SMBA 15U tournament later in the month.
“After the third and fourth innings, I
(MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY PHOTO)
Stratford Nationals pitcher Alex Everett throws for a strikeout against the Woodstock Wranglers at Stratford National Stadium on July 13.
MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY Times Correspondent
Stratford Strikers recap
the location for the match is yet to be determined.
On July 10, the Stratford U15 Strikers Girls hosted the Guelph Jr. Gryphons Black in the second round of the 2026 U15 Nothers Youth Girls Cup at Cowan Field.
Payton Herman opened the scoring for the home side, only for the Gryphons to respond a few minutes later in the first half. Led by a pair of second-half goals, including the winner, from Reese Campbell, Stratford squeaked out a hard-fought 3-2 win over Guelph, advancing to the semifinals against the Kitchener TFC U14/15, who defeated FFTW Academy 4-3 in their tournament match the same evening.
Stratford head coach Scott Herman commended the team's effort but cited small details that needed to be addressed in practice.
“Feels good. The girls definitely earned it tonight. They worked hard all game. Guelph was pressing quite a bit, and we held them off. So quite happy,” Herman said.
“Keep doing the same thing. Little tweaks at practice again. Same message to the girls. Keep going. Keep playing your game. Keep working hard.”
Stratford travelled to Puslinch for their game against the Predators on July 13. Campbell scored twice, while Mya Groenestege, Peyton Ward, Danica Voros and Jessica Blake also netted goals, giving the visitors a 6-1 victory.
Next up for the U15 Strikers is a match on July 22 against their Nothers Cup semifinal opponent, Kitchener TFC U14/15, at SERC Tennis, located near St. Michael and Stratford District Secondary Schools.
The Nothers Cup semifinal matchup between Stratford and Kitchener TFC takes place on Aug. 7. At press time,
Unfortunately for the U18 Strikers Boys, their Nothers Youth Cup journey ended on July 10 with a 2-0 defeat against Rockwood FC. On July 13, they travelled to RIM Park in Waterloo to play Waterloo United in the Southwest District Soccer League regular season. Owen Blain scored the lone goal of the match as the Strikers ended their week on a positive note with a 1-0 win.
Next up for the U18 Strikers is a match against the league’s top-ranked Kitchener TFC U17 on July 20 at VFG Field.
In their lone SWDSL match last week, the U16 Strikers Boys pounced on the Woolwich Wolfpack in a 9-0 win at Lions Park in Elmira on July 7.
Graham Cassone led the Strikers with a brace, while Van Koss, Maelaf Haile, Cole Weyers, Miles Hallman, Alro Minnaar, Lucas De Witt and Logan Wilson rounded out the goal barrage in the rout. Their fourth straight win improved the Strikers’ record to 4-1-3 through eight weeks into the season, good for sixth position in the league standings.
Next up for the U16 Boys Strikers is a match against Owen Sound United in Owen Sound on July 14.
The Stratford U16 Girls continued their strong form with a 2-0 win over Waterloo United at RIM Park in Waterloo on July 7. Reese Campbell and Everly Durst scored for Stratford.
With the win, the Strikers stayed atop their SWDSL U16 League standings with an unbeaten 6-2-0 record through eight weeks, one point ahead of Puslinch Predators, who have 19 points in second place. Both squads square off on July 14 at VFG Field at Festival Hydro Community Park.
The story's outcome, along with the others, will be published in next week’s Times edition.
MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY Times Correspondent
(MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY PHOTO)
Reese Campbell of the Stratford U15 Strikers executes the corner kick against the Guelph Jr. Gryphons in the Nothers Cup second-round match at Cowan Field on July 10.
(MICHAEL WILLOUGHBY PHOTO)
Payton Herman looks on after executing the short free kick against the Guelph Jr. Gryphons in the Nothers Cup second-round match at Cowan Field on July 10.
Opinions
The joy of creating your best staycation
When I was younger, I believed summer only counted if it included a suitcase, a map and somewhere new to explore. Vacations seemed to define the season. Yet over the years, I've discovered something unexpected: some of my favourite summer memories have been made only a few kilometres from home.
Perhaps that's because, as we grow older, we begin to value something different. Instead of rushing from one attraction
to the next, we find ourselves appreciating slower mornings, longer conversations and the simple pleasure of sitting outside with a good book while the breeze stirs the trees.
A staycation isn't settling for less. It's choosing to see the familiar with fresh eyes.
Living in a beautiful community means we often take its treasures for granted. We drive the same streets, pass the same parks and promise ourselves that one day we'll visit that little museum, browse that independent bookstore or stop at the café everyone keeps recommending. Somehow, "one day" keeps getting postponed.
A staycation is the perfect excuse to become a visitor in your own hometown.
Walk a street you've never explored before. Visit a local garden in full bloom. Wander through a farmers' market without watching the clock. Treat yourself to lunch at a restaurant you've never tried. You may be surprised at how much there is
to discover when you're not in a hurry to get somewhere else.
One of the greatest gifts of summer is permission to slow down. We spend much of the year living by schedules, appointments, deadlines and obligations. Summer quietly reminds us that not every hour has to be productive.
Sometimes an afternoon spent reading beneath a tree is exactly what our minds have been craving.
Sometimes watching children chase butterflies or listening to birdsong over morning coffee restores us more than an expensive getaway ever could.
For many of us, the best moments are the simplest ones.
If you have grandchildren visiting this summer, they'll likely remember roasting marshmallows in the backyard, building blanket forts or hunting for fireflies long after they've forgotten the latest electronic gadget. Children have a wonderful way of reminding us that joy rarely depends on spending a great
deal of money.
A staycation also offers something vacations often cannot: the chance to truly rest.
There are no flights to catch, no traffic jams to navigate, no hotel reservations to worry about. Home has a comforting rhythm all its own. You can sleep in, enjoy breakfast on the deck, tend your flowers, watch a summer rainstorm from the porch or simply spend an evening watching the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and gold.
Those moments may seem ordinary, but they have a remarkable way of becoming extraordinary when we are fully present.
This summer might also be the perfect opportunity to support local businesses. Browse an independent bookstore, enjoy homemade ice cream, attend a community concert or discover a local artisan you've never met before. Every visit strengthens the community while giving you another reason to appreciate the place you call home.
UNTIL SOON. LIVE WELL: CONTAINMENTS
Oh – the spongy, unrestricted and magnificent mind of a child!
I recall the fantasies of youth that sprouted their sensational inspirations out of the boredom of a day with only a television set as company – and that, controlled by mom and dad, or oma, after school.
As a young boy, the first books I ever read were science fiction novels from my parents’ extensive collection. One in particular sparked me – about an existence where people lived under a gigantic unseen and climate controlled geodesic dome due to the pollution outside of it. That book stayed with me and began to haunt my impressionable mind. The notion that “outside” may not really be outside began to seep in as light through a pinhole – conjuring thoughts of our
universe, arbitrary ideas about time and space and the confines of neighbourhood, country, continent and planet.
I began to wonder: how do we really know if we’re outside? Does simply leaving the house entail all it means to be “out?”
And if anyone could be beyond the outside, would that be what some would reflect on as God?
Maybe we’re all simply existing under a dome that we cannot see, as in that novel, on a cosmic table whereupon someone need merely raise the platter up to the stars and lift the lid for us all to be free.
This thought of “outside” and where it is, entangled itself into my notion of freedom somehow, and through adolescent wonderings, started threading its way into observations of what humanity does to itself. It was a feeling at first. Maybe from a sense of some wrongdoing I carried out upon someone or a remembrance of a hurt someone inflicted upon me. Regardless of how it began I became acutely aware of us having to live with one another. I began to recognize the many ways in which we place ourselves in confinement – through hatred and prejudice, through wealth, through decisions and situations that didn’t have to be – and from that, I caught glimpses of escape through the realiza-
tion of a growing insinuation of common energy, that emanated from myself and everyone else around me – all of us tied to the same core – hearts beating in and out of rhythm, but still all from the same source. All these lives under the same “dome” of existence. And then I felt a new sense. Something akin to freedom at those rare times when you feel its majestic force and realize that you are, to some degree, a free agent within it.
So, I knew I could be free in my own life, despite all the trappings of society – the laws, the rules, the appropriate behaviours. But I didn’t know how, and I couldn’t explain why I knew that. Something about the concept of autonomy and freedom being sustained in the mind.
And while adolescence was a wild ride of hormones and discovery and angst, there were the forces of family to contain the soul when the will dared stretch out into the world beyond – yawning out the comforting safety of home and breathing in the dangerous electrified air outside. Somewhere beyond neighbourhood, over those childhood years, some of us eagerly moved out into the unfamiliar world –as bold as we believed ourselves to be – we ventured as far as we dared. And there was some kind of freedom in that too. And joy,
Perhaps the greatest challenge of any staycation is resisting the temptation to compare it with someone else's vacation. Social media has a way of convincing us that everyone else is climbing mountains, relaxing on tropical beaches or exploring European villages.
But those photographs tell only part of the story.
Contentment isn't measured by the number of passport stamps we collect. It grows from paying attention to where we are, the people we're with and the moments that quietly enrich our lives.
This July, you don't have to travel far to create lasting memories. Open your front door. Explore your own community. Savour a slower pace. Notice the flowers, the laughter, the sunsets and the unexpected conversations along the way. You may discover that the best destination this summer isn't somewhere else at all. It has been waiting for you, right here, all along.
and rebellion. And sadly, for me, there was someone dear to me –a friend, who I could not speak of afterward, who never made it out of adolescence alive because he strayed too far. And I never came to know if his death was deliberate or accidental.
Nevertheless, at the time I stitched him and his memory into the sinews of my own threadbare safety net and said to myself, “Look ... this far and no further, lest you die too.” And I cried alone for a long time in places where no one could find me. And for many years after, I held my breath.
And as I grew, the desire for freedom outside turned to the desire for peace inside. And the containments of family and home emptied themselves of gravity, loosened their grip, became light. The need to discover new worlds then, turned inward where all things begin, all thoughts are watered, and all seeds sprout.
And then I saw clearly something I’d never thought of before... at the beginning of “my” time, “I” was not. But at birth, “I” became. Just as you did, dear reader. Something from nothing? No. Not nothing. An idea perhaps, from something beyond me. An action. A reaction. A flicker of light that turned possibility to certainty. That life
force again. Something like liberty, except now I recognize it as being inside of me. Inside my mind. And I’m thinking about it and allowing it to form itself into words I understand that I could not fully understand in my youth – not just the word “freedom,” but “love,” “truth,” and “wisdom” too.
And what did I do then as I grew into adulthood with those words, after not really understanding the spaciousness of them within me for so long? After all the hurts, all the escapes and all the confinements thus far – I think on their meaning still, gently, and give them away freely, sure as I give them to myself. I let the words live inside and I live them out into the world, so those I meet know they may do the same – all of us, together. And then finally, miraculously –this happened – I sensed the truth of us all and began to breathe more easily again, knowing the earth is small. And in knowing it’s small, knowing instinctively, that our tiny lives of freedom are for ourselves and also for each other.
Stuart is a celebrant and the manager of Rutherford Cremation & Funeral Services. It is his privilege to serve, dispel myths, and give information concerning his field of compassionate service.
IRENE ROTH Times Columnist
STUART LENDER Times Columnist