Justine Styles told Stratford city council on June 23 that she came to Stratford for a reprieve – a reprieve from abuse and hopelessness.
“Little did I know I would be battling homelessness for a year and a half,” Styles said. “There is a massive homelessness issue in this city. If you haven't been here long enough, there's no support. If you haven't been abused, there's no support. If you're a man, there's no support.”
Styles was one of the many advocates at city hall that night to tell their story. Along with her peers, she told her story of bouncing around southwestern Ontario with her four children, struggling to find housing or shelter and contending with the bureaucratic hurdles that kept piling up.
Like many of the delegates, she wanted more from the City of Stratford to tackle the very real and pressing threats many residents face.
Monday night was not the first time local residents advocated for a meaningful response to homelessness in city hall this year. On June 10, advocates spoke at a social services subcommittee meeting and made similar requests. Led by 22-year-old activist Tanner Bergsma, they petitioned committee members to listen to what they had to say.
John Kastner, the former general manager of the Stratford Perth Museum, called the decision the ad hoc Grand Trunk renewal (GTR) committee made at its June 16 meeting an important one for the Festival City.
“I’m a student of history, a student of Stratford’s history,” Kastner said. “I think this is a historic day, in lots of ways.”
Kastner made that comment ahead of the GTR committee recommending that the proposed new community hub, long thought to be built within the old shops “superstructure,” be built outside the structure.
The committee had a lengthy discussion on the various op-
tions ahead of making that decision, largely informed by the fiscal reality of the project. At the May 20 meeting, Joe Svec and Rock Wang, consultants working with the city, presented two “bookends” for a community hub which costed between $43 million and $126 million, with the cheaper option to locate the community hub outside of the superstructure. When it came to whether or not to include the community hub within the superstructure, most committee members were in agreement that it was more appropriate to build it outside. The bulk of their debate was on what then to do with the superstructure.
Svec presented an option to demolish a portion of the building to build housing and/or parking, and to create an
On June 23, Denise McCarroll contended with Maureen Kramer and Heather Sylvester on the courts of the Stratford Tennis Club — and the weather. That day a heat wave blanketed much of southwestern Ontario.
(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)
“We deserve better”: Residents call for community led solution to Stratford’s homelessness crisis
“All it takes is one person to say, ‘enough,’” said Bergsma during his impassioned speech that day. “To stand up. To speak out. And to remind others that we’re not powerless – unless we believe we are.”
Bergsma’s voice carried through the council chamber and beyond, livestreamed to a community he believes is being quietly left behind. “What’s happening here is not just a crisis,” he told the committee. “It is a collapse of conscience. And the worst part? You knew and turned a blind eye.”
The Stratford-born activist was diagnosed with autism as an adult and has previously experienced housing instability. His advocacy work spans housing equity, mental health issues and international humanitarian
Strawberries!
initiatives. But his focus on Stratford is deeply personal.
“Stratford raised me,” he said, “but Stratford is no longer recognizable.”
During his delegation to the committee, Bergsma cited troubling local data from the social service department’s monthly report: 254 households on Stratford’s affordable housing waitlist; 42 per cent of them seniors; 67 per cent needing only a one-bedroom unit. At least 160 individuals are already living without stable housing – but those are only the ones who’ve made it onto official records.
“What about the ones who gave up?” he asked. “The ones who couldn’t figure out the paperwork, who couldn’t keep waiting, who just disappeared?”
Patricia Denise shared her story of being under-housed through the Supported Housing of Perth Program (SHOPP) and being promised a transitional unit next door. That unit, she said, sat empty since January 2024 and the unit beneath it has now been empty for over ten months. “Meanwhile, I am at risk of losing custody of my grandchildren because I’m not properly housed,” she said, her voice cracking. “My grandkids and I are sharing a room. They’re getting older. They can’t share a room much longer.”
Denise said she had to reapply to the housing waitlist not just in Stratford, but across Ontario. The average wait time, she was told, is five to six years. “I don’t have that kind of time,” she said. “Every day I have to wonder if this is the day someone steps into my life to remove them.”
In a voice full of grief, she spoke about her brother James Boyd, a senior who died in February 2024 “as a direct result of homelessness.”
“He wasn’t couch-surfing,” she said. “He was outside in record-breaking snow and cold. He was cold. And he was hungry.
10-year housing and homelessness plan – consultation that includes those most directly affected. He proposed the creation of a permanent “lived experience advisory committee” with real power and voting status, the establishment of an all-genders emergency shelter and a mobile outreach team to meet people where they are.
He reiterated their points on June 23 – along with other advocates that evening who particularly advocated for a men’s shelter in Stratford.
Coun. Bonnie Henderson lamented that many of their ideas were not possible. For instance, suspending all residential developments is simply not permitted under the Municipal Act, which governs what municipalities can and can’t do. Likewise, making sure that a quota of all new housing is affordable is not possible.
Kim McElroy, director of social services, clarified that the current 10-year housing and homelessness plan lasted until this year and is in the process of being updated.
“And with the housing and homeless plan, we do a holistic look at what is needed. We meet with various people,” McElroy said.
Many councillors, while acknowledging what the delegates’ experienced, also spoke about some of the things that the social services department does which the public is not privy to. Coun. Lesley Biehn in particular listed the amount of affordable, supportive, and rent-geared-to-income housing that staff and council continues to expand.
“This is not a matter of us versus them,” she said. “We all share the common goal of ensuring that no individual is left without shelter. Despite the limitations of our resources, I assure you that our social services director and the housing manager, they approach their work with the utmost respect and dedication to every individual.”
“The city of Stratford did that to me,” she went on to say. “And that’s just my story. There are hundreds like it.”
At the centre of their message, crystallized by Bergsma, was a call to pause all large-scale residential development until Stratford sets and begins meeting clear, measurable targets for affordable housing. Bergsma also called for immediate public consultation on Stratford’s
Mayor Martin Ritsma thanked the delegates for speaking that evening and for “holding our feet to the fire.”
“I am in contact frequently with particularly men in our community for coffee and just conversation. So I'm not blind to it … homelessness is a challenge in our community,” Ritsma said. “… It has to be a made in Stratford approach, unless the federal, provincial, government comes through with saying, ‘Here's your dollars to build more supportive housing,’ and that's where I believe we need to start: supportive housing.”
A motion to have staff investigate a possible shelter and the delegates' action points as they work on the city's new housing and homelessness plan was passed unanimously. According to McElroy, a draft version of the plan will be presented to city council in the fall.
With files from Connor Luczka, Times editor.
GTR committee supports building community hub outside of old shops
open-air indoor park in the remainder of the building. That scenario would present a myriad of options for what to include within, whether it be green spaces, theatre stages, walking paths, skating rinks, or anything else that council, the community or a developer deems a priority.
As Svec and other committee members said and argued, the western portion of the building was damaged in a fire and it’s been long believed that at least that portion of the building will be demolished due to the damage. What will be done with the remaining two-thirds of the building will be further explored if council directs Svec and Wang to pursue options.
Svec further said that the community hub, which includes all assets that the committee wants included (such as a new library and community group spaces), could be located in either the current YMCA building with an expansive renovation, or that the community hub and a new Y building be built on another parcel of the 18-acre site, such as a portion of the municipal Cooper Parking Lot.
He further said that his job at this stage of the project was to present real options, not to endorse one option over another. He repeatedly said that council will be the entity that makes the final decision.
Mike Ennis, CEO of YMCA of Three Rivers, was in attendance at that meeting. He told the committee that the Y is a willing partner with the city and willing to explore options; however, he clarified that the Y owns the land its current building sits atop of and they have a board of directors and partners that will have input, meaning it isn’t so simple for him to tell the committee the Y’s preference either way.
After a debate on wording, the committee finally passed the motion to recommend locating the community hub outside of the superstructure and to explore the continuum of options that Svec Group presented, and to preserve as much of the superstructure as feasible.
Committee member Paul Parlee was the lone holdout, opposing the motion. He later told the Times that he supported the motion
in principle but wanted stronger language to preserve the superstructure.
He wasn’t the only Stratford citizen wanting to preserve the structure. Leslie Walker-Fitzpatrick gave an impassioned delegation, asking for the committee to preserve the structure. As she said, the building housed the lifeblood of not only Stratford, but of Canada as it stretched from sea to sea by rail. Although it may be more economical to demolish it, value had to be placed in its cultural and historical significance and that the building deserved adaptive reuse rather than demolition.
“This is a plea – not for amputation, not for erasure – but bold, full-steam ahead, to create a hub, a community hub,” Walker-Fitzpatrick said.
The Grand Trunk renewal project is more than just the community hub and superstructure, however. The project means to transform the downtown site with community assets, parking, parks and – crucially –housing.
As Adam Betteridge, interim chief administrative officer (CAO) with the city, said, should council decide to maintain the superstructure, it will need some tender love and care for the sake of the project’s whole viability.
“We’re going to have to spruce it up so it doesn’t look like the dilapidated eyesore as it is now,” Betteridge said, pointing to an overhead presentation with a portion of the project site devoted to housing highlighted in blue. “Because we’re going to have a lot of trouble selling that area in blue … if this community wants to see the two-thirds kept, we're going to have to put some money into making the building look a lot better than the way it is right now, because we all know what it looks like, and we all know what the developers are not going to want to do: build next to it the way it is.”
The GTR committee is an advisory body for city council, which retains ultimate control for the project’s vision. The committee’s recommendation will be before council on July 14, when it will decide to support the recommendation or move in a different direction.
The quiet revival of community in our backyard
cameras and the news that Shania Twain is going on tour again, reminds me that maybe the good old days aren’t just behind us – maybe they’re quietly returning.
When I started writing local news, a few people said things like, “But people don’t read print anymore,” or, “Isn’t that kind of dated?”
At first, I was worried. Was small-town news a thing of the past? Was I getting into print 20 years too late?
But even as those doubts crept in, I knew in my core – and could see all around me – that local news still mattered. And, in some capacity, it’s making a quiet comeback.
When the Stratford Times first started circulation in 2021, the small team printed around 1,000 newspapers monthly. Four years later, we print biweekly papers and distribute over 6,000 copies across Stratford every other week. We’ve expanded our distribution locations, and I hear people asking if they can have it delivered nearly every day. Heck, I personally drop off copies at a few local spots just so our delivery team doesn’t get overwhelmed.
This revival, along with the return of point-and-click
Recently, I attended a meeting in New Hamburg about the newly established police presence in town. Sgt. Jay Hiuser met with local business owners to discuss a new initiative: having dedicated rural officers who are accessible and connected to the community. Officers will now work on rotating schedules to be more visible and approachable – the kind of policing where residents know the officer by name.
I grew up in Chesley, a small town south of Owen Sound, and I remember having a local officer who would walk the streets, grab pizza and chat with shop owners. I even babysat his daughter once. But when municipal funding shrank and resources were stretched thin, he left – and police presence in our town practically disappeared. Not the worst thing for a teenager who liked to have a good time, I’ll admit.
This return to visibility and familiarity feels like a step in the right direction, and it’s not just policing. I see this
quiet revival happening all over.
Southwestern Ontario is full of small businesses that understand the importance of investing in their communities. Farmer’s markets are getting busier and with social media platforms paving the way, small communities of business owners are turning to each other for support. Our local libraries are consistently growing and offering more programs and support for the community, where kids gather for story time and jobseekers get help with their resumés.
At a recent mock UN meeting held at Stratford City Hall, students from all three high schools debated over topics related to minimum income. Watching these students debate global issues with such confidence reminded me the next generation hasn’t checked out – they’re tuning in. And maybe, just maybe, they’re more rooted in community than we realize.
People are slowing down, choosing local and showing up.
It’s not flashy. It’s not loud. But it’s happening – and it might just be exactly what we need in the world right now.
Overcoming division: If we can do it once a year, we can do it all year
country that can stand up to the threats we face from abroad and closer to home is more important now than it has been for a long, long time.
In a few days, we as Canadians will come together to celebrate the country we call home.
As we do every year, we will put our differences aside to enjoy Canada Day festivities with our family, friends and neighbours, and we will celebrate our shared and diverse Canadian values, identities, cultures and histories as communities, provinces and one unified country. While we can’t all agree on everything – or maybe even anything – all of the time, the notion of a unified
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
STRATFORD TIMES
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From environmental destruction and global warming to the housing crisis and the ever-rising cost of living, as well as the threats Canada and the rest of the world face from south of the border, we need to work together to tackle our problems with our hearts and minds open to solutions from all sides of the political spectrum.
Too often, when we disagree on how to handle our problems, we entrench ourselves in the opinions we already hold, unwilling to discuss or even listen to anything that may challenge those opinions even a little.
Like many of our friends south of the border, our opinions must align with one political party or the other, and those political affiliations often get wrapped up with our sense of pride or even our identities. To challenge our beliefs is to challenge who we are as people.
But that doesn’t have to be the case. Let’s admit it; we’re wrong about things, big and small, way more than we’re right, and that’s okay. Being wrong and making mistakes is the best way to learn the most important lessons in life, but to learn those lessons, we need to acknowledge our own biases and those of the people who
raised us, and be open to different ways of thinking and living.
We need to listen to people with lived experiences and those who understand the issues at play better than we do so we can continually challenge our opinions and entrenched beliefs and reshape them as new information comes to light.
To think we know it all now or at any point in our lives is a declaration that we are no longer interested in learning and growing as people or as a society.
And as a Canadian, that is not a national identity I will embrace. Whenever we as a country are confronted with something new, however terrible or hard to swallow it may be, we must face it head on, acknowledge our past mistakes, learn from them and move forward together toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Those who turn their heads and refuse to see what’s right in front of them or place the blame on people who think differently than they do will ultimately be left behind, bitter and angry at everyone but themselves.
So, on Canada Day and every day, as Canadians, let’s remember that we all want the same thing – the freedom to live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives – and work together to achieve that for all, not just a choice few.
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE Times Reporter
GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor
ShelterLink proposes collaboration on Grand Trunk renewal project
ShelterLink Youth Services is asking to be included in the early planning stages of Stratford’s Grand Trunk renewal project. The organization recently submitted a proposal to the ad hoc Grand Trunk renewal committee, suggesting that inclusion in the conceptual planning phase would help foster a stronger, more united community.
ShelterLink is a social service agency that has supported youth aged 14 to 24 in Perth County since 1989. Officially incorporated in 1991, the organization provides both shelter and outreach services for young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Cate Trudeau, executive director of ShelterLink, believes the project aligns well with the work already being done by other community agencies involved in the redevelopment, including the Stratford Public Library and the YMCA of Three Rivers.
"We have a natural and already existing partnership with the YMCA and Stratford Public Library,” said Trudeau. “Youth participate in groups, attend classes and get YMCA passes. They use the library, and this allows them to have access to computers and services to help them in school or with finding jobs."
Trudeau says that integrating ShelterLink into the new development would support stronger service coordination and build upon the relationships that already exist between the organizations.
ShelterLink receives funding from the City of Stratford and works closely with the city’s social services department. It also plays a key role in the city’s after-hours homelessness response program.
While ShelterLink is currently operating out of a space at 130 Youngs St. – a Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance property – Trudeau says the location is no longer adequate to meet growing needs.
"As we grow, we're realizing the limitations of the space ... we don't have a place for outreach. We also have a new post-shelter program, and there just isn’t enough space for this program in the current location,” said Trudeau.
"If we can't grow or can only use the existing footprint, it limits what we can do for the youth in the community," she continued.
Trudeau added that ShelterLink is prepared to raise the necessary funds to support its participation in the large-scale project.
The guiding principle of the Grand Trunk renewal project is to foster a sense of welcome and belonging for all community members. ShelterLink’s proposal emphasized the importance of including youth voices – particularly those who are marginalized or underserved – in the creation of inclusive community spaces.
ShelterLink served over 107 youth in Perth County in 2023-2024, including 58 through shelter services and 49 through outreach programs. Twenty-one youth were successfully diverted from shelter during that time.
The average age of those accessing ShelterLink services is 19, and more than 29 per cent of clients were under the age of 18. The organization fields more than 380 calls per year from youth in need.
According to Statistics Canada, 40 per cent of homeless youth in the country had their first experience of homelessness before the age of 16. Street-involved youth are also six times more likely to be victims of violence compared to the general
population.
"We want the youth to reconnect in community,” said Trudeau. “We want them to feel like they are a part of the community. We want them to do well and know
the resources available as they move into adulthood. We want them to feel like the community has supported them in need, and therefore, they too can give back to the community someday."
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE Times Reporter
A single bedroom at ShelterLink Youth Services offers a safe, temporary space for youth aged 14 to 24 experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The organization is advocating to be part of the early planning stages of Stratford’s Grand Trunk renewal project.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Stratford police are looking for four male suspects involved in a smash and grab robbery at Paris Jewellers in the Stratford Mall on June 22. Fleeing in a black Honda Accord, police abandoned pursuit of the suspect vehicle in Shakespeare – though its last sighting was in Kitchener. Anyone with information is asked to call the Stratford Police Service or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Radiance: Sixth annual Lights On Stratford winter festival theme announced
Destination Stratford has introduced the 2025 theme for Lights On Stratford, and this year visitors can look forward to an allnew installation that is said to be the most ambitious one yet.
Lights On Stratford will run from Dec. 12, 2025, to Jan. 18, 2026.
The sixth annual Lights On Stratford is free to the public and runs Thursday through Sunday, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Destination Stratford’s multiaward-winning Lights On Stratford winter festival will once again transform Stratford’s heritage downtown and park system with art and interactive light installations for more than six weekends during the darkest and coldest part of the year.
The 2025-26 theme is Radiance, which Zac Gribble, executive director of Destination Stratford and festival director of Lights On Stratford, says aims to bring the community together.
“Given the current climate of global challenges, a little bit of
radiance goes a long way,” said Gribble. “This year’s theme of Radiance is meant to reflect what happens when our community comes together to celebrate joyfully. Just like a smile, warmth flows from radiance, and our goal this winter is to fill the city with lights and sounds that bring thousands of smiles that will collectively power our community's radiance.”
Market Square will be brought to life with the Canadian premiere of Chronopharm. This intricate, triangular form of light and colour responds to human touch with luminous animations that dance through its structure.
Gribble noted that this particular installation is Stratford’s most ambitious light art installation to date.
“The size, scale and complexity of the install is substantial, but the results will be tremendous,” he said. “As a supersized, community-driven light art musical instrument, the 36 separate points of interaction create a group experience that strikes the perfect balance between spectacle and interactive engagement.”
The festival, which aims to attract visitors to Stratford’s downtown core during shoulder season, is said to have strong community support and aims to help promote business and sales for local business owners.
“Community support is pretty incredible, with over 75 corporate sponsors helping to make our winter lights festival possible and keeping it free for everyone to experience and enjoy,” said Gribble.
“We are incredibly excited about what we have in the works for Tom Patterson Island this winter,” he added. “Lights On Stratford continues to evolve, and part of our vision moving forward is building our capacity to create light art installations, especially with a made-in-Stratford approach. We’re already part way along that path, and this winter will be a good step forward in that journey. Stay tuned for more details coming soon.”
Lights On Stratford is made possible through the support of its partners and the generosity of its community sponsors. It is financially assisted by Experience Ontario, a program of the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming.
Visit lightsonstratford.ca for more details, upcoming announcements and sponsorship opportunities.
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE
Times Reporter
Neighbours oppose inn designation for Albert Street triplex
John Broad moved to his home on Albert Street four and a half years ago, falling in love with the neighbourhood. Now, he’s worried that the neighbourhood will drastically change.
“I moved to Stratford because I love the town, I love the street. I want to keep this street,” Broad said. “… I think that we're going down a really dangerous path here. I think you're going to change the whole impact on this city if you approve this application.”
Broad spoke at the June 23 Stratford city council meeting, where a public meeting was held for the potential zone change of a triplex at 220 Albert St.
The owner, Sara Headley, runs a number of long-term accommodations on Ontario Street, which her Albert Street triplex backs onto. The goal of the application was to zone the property as mixed-use to allow the property to be properly licensed with the city as a three-unit inn.
As explained by Richard Kelly-Ruetz of GSP Group Inc., the applicant’s agent, Headley’s business Sally’s Place offers a niche service for the city, offering shortterm accommodations that focus on longterm stays, such as tourists making a longer stay, workers for local factories that need more than just a hotel room or residents that are doing extensive renovations in their homes, to name a few examples.
No changes to the property are proposed with this potential zone change (though a separate building permit has been issued to locate the outdoor stairs indoors) and a site-specific provision to have all required parking spaces be located at the existing driveway was recommended.
Like Broad, many other neighbours came and spoke against the application. They had issues with the “precedent setting” decision, the “commercial traffic” that will threaten the neighbourhood, the potential for a through-driveway to be constructed that connects Albert Street and Ontario Street and property decisions the owner has already made, like the removal of a mature tree and the dividing fence between the three properties. They also took umbrage with the loss of housing stock in the city.
Weekend music festival
by the river and in encampments?”
The zone change did have its supporters. A number of short-term accommodation owners came to speak in favour of Sally’s Place.
One of them was Amanda Hatton, owner of Avery House. She spoke highly of Headley’s practice and her diligence in trying to be a good landowner and accommodator. She also said that each year she gets calls from tourists looking for longer stays and finding that the accommodations that do offer that service are often full – indicating to her that there is a need for more of these “long-term accommodations.”
“We have a lot of tourist accommodations in Stratford, and we do want to, of course, raise our local economy and get money from tourism – but I've also never seen a tourist sleeping on the street,” neighbour Alex Sparling said. “… If we want to grow our economy, what is that worth when our neighbours are sleeping
“And I hope that what folks keep in mind is that there is no change to the number of units. It's simply using the existing units differently,” Hatton said. “And it's also important to understand that this is not an unsupervised, transient property … Staff are always between those three properties. There's someone always floating around, and so there's always someone on site or nearby committed to addressing guests needs. This is not what we visualize as the stereotypical keyless entry, where the property owner only responds by text. These folks are there. They're present, meeting their guests’ needs and making sure everything's addressed.”
Council did not make a decision on the property, as the public meeting served only to hear from residents. A decision on the zone change will be made at a later council meeting.
How do I keep funeral costs low?
What’s the difference between Aquamation & Cremation?
Which type of will is the best will?
What happens with my TFSA (tax free savings account)?
How does MAiD (medical assistance in dying) work?
What is probate and is it necessary?
How do I make things easy for family & friends?
What do I need to do as an executor?
How do I donate my body to science?
Why should I prearrange my wishes?
What is a death doula?
What cemetery information should I be aware of?
What are the questions that need to be answered?
What are the procedures when someone dies?
... and anything else you can think of!
CONNOR LUCZKA
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The owner of the triplex at 220 Albert St. is proposing making it a three-unit inn, prompting many neighbours to ask how that would change their street.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Mike McCullough of Thundering Velvet Band plays the bass during the band's Friday set at Stratford Live Music and Food 2025. Dozens of bands, vendors and food trucks lined Veterans Drive for the weekend music festival on June 20-22.
(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)
investStratford marks year of growth, innovation and collaboration innovation at 11th annual general meeting
Housing, youth employment and business support took centre stage at investStratford’s AGM this year.
The 11th AGM for the Stratford Economic Enterprise Development Corporation (SEED Co.), more commonly referred to as investStratford, took place at the Stratford Festival Theatre and quickly erupted with discussion of impactful community growth.
John Krastner, former general manager of the Stratford Perth Museum, was in attendance as a guest speaker at the meeting. He mentioned the importance of the relationship shared between the City of Stratford’s Grand Trunk renewal project and community culture.
Joani Gerber, investStratford CEO, said that it's her belief as a lifelong Stratford resident that if people are willing to work among the local businesses and provide their talent and time, they can have the expectation of living in the community.
Gerber added that community feedback has been positive, with the understanding that investStratford is on the correct trajectory. She notes that investStratford will ensure that they work with the com-
munity through unstable economic conditions.
“One of the things that we take great pride in is the concierge service that we provide. We want every business large
and small in the city of Stratford and the surrounding areas to know that we can be their one phone call,” said Gerber.
Gerber said that there will be workforce development to address the challenge of
the unemployed youth in the community. Gerber admits that the trend is a provincial and national issue, but they will continue to develop ways to allow youth to obtain successful job growth within the community.
“Housing in general is also going to continue to be a high priority for our council and community. It is an ever-evolving discussion,” said Gerber. “There are a number of large developments that are underway, but we really want to make sure that we are providing the right kinds of housing for the right people for the right time – and that’s a bullseye that’s constantly moving as well.”
Gerber said that investStratford has community beneficial projects in motion, where city council is considering the use of remnant parcels and city owned residential properties that are vacant in public-private partnerships.
“Which I think is going to be a huge opportunity for this community and it goes without saying that all parties, whether they are public, private or otherwise, need to be coming together to solve this problem,” said Gerber. “It's not just a government problem or a private sector problem and the housing discussion is going to continue.”
ALEX HUNT Times Correspondent
The investStratford AGM was open to the public to discuss the future of Stratford’s economic growth.
(ALEX HUNT PHOTO)
Chamber of Commerce GM shares findings from recent Washington visit
CONNOR LUCZKA
Before heading to Washington, D.C. for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s U.S. mission, Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce general manager Aaron Martin shared with the Times that he was focused on getting perspective.
Gratefully, over the two-day trip on June 10-11, Martin got just what he was looking for.
After the chamber’s annual general meeting on June 19, Martin shared what happened over the course of the mission to the chamber’s membership. Because most events were held under Chatham House rules (a governing set of rules that dictates that members can talk about what was discussed but couldn’t attribute what as said to specific people), most of what he said was in generality.
Still, the mission provided answers to some of the questions Martin and the wider local business community had.
One startling fact was that most of the U.S. proponents were quite open about the fact that economically the trade measures the current U.S. administration has implemented (like across the board tariffs) are not helpful for either the U.S. or its partners, though it played well with U.S. President Donald Trump’s base and that was the main driver for why they were implemented.
“The Americans want a sacrificial lamb,” Martin said. “And the two things that kept coming up was timber and dairy … If they did attack either timber or the dairy bit, they wouldn't economically benefit from it, but the political basis that they get from it – they want to make sure they're getting a win for their loggers, they're getting a win for their farmers.
And that's where they're really going for this.
“The American public also hasn't felt the impacts of tariffs yet,” Martin went on to say. “So when this was all started … a lot of companies started doing front loading, where essentially they would buy everything they could and stock up their warehouses. A lot of people estimate that'll last for around a year, after which point you'll start to see issues in pricing. Prices will rise because the tariffs will actually come into effect.
“This can be an opportunity for the Canadian government to get a better negotiation with this. As the American consumer feels the squeeze more and more with the tariffs, they'll have more political pressure
Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet, by Ben Goldfarb
@SPL: 577.27 Gol
You know that old joke, why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the other side! Roads connect, convey and convenience people. But for animals, as Ben Goldfarb writes, “it has never been more dangerous to set paw, hoof or scaly belly on the highway.”
Winner of the 2024 Rachel Carson Award for Excellence in Environmental Writing and the Banff Mountain Book Competition’s Environmental Literature Award and Grand Prize, Crossings takes the reader on an epic road trip to discover the impacts of roads and traffic on wildlife.
I expected this book to be grim: lots of roadkill, hopefully some wildlife ecopassage success stories. But it covers so much more: habitat fragmentation, migration route disruption, noise pollution, the “necrobiome” (scavengers who subsist on roadkill), and wildlife rehabilitation. Encouraging examples of wildlife overpasses that support bears, sea-
pushing the other way … If the Canadian government can hold out to then there's a real chance that (Republicans) will lose the House (of Representatives).”
One point that Martin said was agreed upon across the table was China’s abuse of the current trade system, using it to pit countries against each other. China, while not necessarily a boogeyman of the mission, was prevalent in every discussion that was had.
Martin also said that
sonal road closures for breeding amphibians and reptiles, participatory science projects and road redesign and decommissioning plans around the world keep the tone hopeful.
Goldfarb’s writing is descriptive and lyrical. He describes a frog that “glowed a warm, lambent ochre, as though candlelit from within.” It’s dramatic, like the story of the turkey vulture that nearly doomed the space shuttle Discovery. It’s also witty and peppered with literary and pop culture references: a cougar near Bel Air is referred to as a “feline fresh prince”; another one, as “LA’s Boo Radley!”
A decade in the making, Crossings is both extensively researched and personal. Colorado-based environmental journalist and author Goldfarb travelled the world interviewing scientists, engineers, conservationists and more. He got his hands dirty in the process, inspecting road-killed marsupials’ pouches in Tasmania, shuttling frogs in Oregon, and hunting down a radio-collared giant anteater in Brazil. This is a fascinating, relevant read for our times, for fans of Joe Roman’s Eat, Poop, Die, and for anyone who enjoys narrative science nonfiction.
there was more than one representative from Alberta in Washington during the mission that openly expressed support for secession. This was aside from the purpose of the chamber’s mission, but Martin felt it was something worth sharing with the group.
“I think that's something that's been brought up in the media, that this is a non-issue. Nothing's ever going to happen. We have to ensure that Albertans, the average Albertan, doesn't feel they're getting the raw deal that they are feeling, that Confederation is to their benefit and that they want to be a part of it. We need to be unified here. And I think belittling the way they're feeling isn't the way to go forward.”
Overall, Martin called the experience very eye-opening and encouraged anyone with further questions to reach out to him and the chamber, which continues to monitor the international situation and its local impacts in Perth County and area.
SHERRIE ROULSTON
Real Estate Broker email: sherrieroulston@royallepage.ca
Direct: 519-272-3578
Weekend Quiz
By Jake Grant
1. What is the biggest planet in our solar system?
2. What shape is on the Maldives flag?
3. Who was the lead singer for The Tragically Hip?
4. True or False. Cats have more bones than humans.
5. The Citadel of Aleppo is located in what country?
6. Who brought tulips to Canada?
7. What is 0.75 as a fraction in simplest form?
8. What NBA players has the most points?
9. When was Boeing founded?
10. A beer flat, blind pig or blind tiger are all different names for a what?
Shelf Help
ALIDA LEMIEUX Stratford Public Library
Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce general manager Aaron Martin poses in front of the Canadian Embassy in Washington, D.C. Martin was a part of the Canadian chamber’s U.S. mission from June 10-11.
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
The weekend heat wave doesn’t stop community from coming together to hike for a cause
Hike for Hospice saw an incredible turnout on June 22. High temperatures were replaced with community spirit and a drive to ensure that loved ones are comfortable in their final days.
The Stratford community gathered at the Stratford Perth Museum, which featured prizes, beverages, food and live music. The Hike for Hospice fundraiser plays a vital role in raising funds to ensure that Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth continues to provide the quality care for individuals living their final weeks of life.
“I think today is very much a chance for families and friends to get together to remember a loved one, it’s the love and you can feel it in the air,” said Lucie Stuart, director of fund development and stewardship at the hospice.
“This spot is lovely. You (see) people who have had the same experience that we have – having lost someone we loved … There is this strong feeling of support.”
Stuart says that the goal of the event is to make it feel like it's a family friend’s barbeque picnic day, where attendees come together and remember loved ones.
Stuart adds that the hospice must raise over a million dollars to continue quality support for their patients.
“We get Ministry of Health funding
which only covers the bedside care and covers a portion of the staff’s salary,” said Stuart. “Everything else such as food and necessities and amenities – our goal this year is to reach $130,000 which goes directly to those needs.”
Julie Docker-Johnson, volunteer and chair of the Hike for Hospice planning committee, said the funds raised at this event is all about getting to the million.
“It’s all about remembering, acknowledging and feeling the feels,” said Docker-Johnson.
Stuart adds that the community came together to raise the money to build the hospice and continue to provide support to the ongoing operations.
“It’s about community,” said Stuart.
Rotary Hospice volunteers Laurie Brown and Bonnie Shackleton have been with the hospice since it started and praise the programming that is provided for the community, explaining that the Hike for Hospice event has grown immensely since its debut 11 years ago.
This year, the event brought in over $125,000 with donations being accepted until the end of the month.
The Livery Yard, a favourite for locals, celebrates six years
Lieasa Hartman, general manager of the Livery Yard, is one of the friendly faces visitors see each morning or afternoon during their coffee stop. The Livery Yard, a favourite of locals and visitors to meet and talk about local events, news and what's happening in Stratford, celebrated its sixth birthday on June 15 with music by Sound FIXation, cupcakes and familiar faces. Donations were accepted in support of Optimism Pace and ShelterLink.
Dave Bates, regular at the Livery Yard, stopped by to celebrate and taste one of the delicious cupcakes, complete with a birthday candle.
(AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE PHOTO)
ALEX HUNT Times Correspondent
Board members brave the heat with the community at the Stratford Perth Museum to hike for a cause during the 2025 Hike for Hospice event on June 22. With a goal of $130,000, hikers have so far raised $125,000 -- though there is still time to donate. From left to right are Jason Lott, Kelley Jacobs, Louise Lepp, Julie Docker-Johnson, Lucie Stuart, Sarah Hamza and John Brightwell.
(ALEX HUNT PHOTO)
2025 Ontario Pork Congress another success, as annual Hog Jog raises $45,000 for Stratford House of Blessing
With the weather again cooperating, there were many visitors from Stratford, Perth County and far beyond who visited the 52nd edition of the Ontario Pork Congress. The annual Pork Congress, which took place from June 17-18 this year, has been held in Stratford every June since 1973, first at the Stratford Fairgrounds and now at the Stratford Rotary Complex. It still has a large number
of local followers in manufacturing, barn and pig farm related equipment companies. They participate in the show as exhibitors, both inside the three arenas and outside on the complex grounds.
The crowds come every year, and even international visitors from outside the country took part in programs this year, which includes the “pork producers of tomorrow,” where local youth come and show their 4-H projects, or the “Bacon Maker Classic,” a pig show, among other exhibits.
GARY WEST Times Correspondent
Hundreds of runners at the starting line of the 2025 Hog Jog, ready to raise money for the Stratford House of Blessing.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
2025 Ontario Pork Congress another success, as annual Hog Jog raises $45,000 for Stratford House of Blessing
Every year since 2006, the Hog Jog has raised over $700,000 for area charities in need, with hundreds of participating runners in the 3.5 kilometre run, the 10 kilometre run and the wiener run for kids.
This year, committee member Lauren Hansen reports there were 450 registered for the run, while 35 kids signed up for the “wiener run.” Over 45,000 was raised for this year’s beneficiary, the Stratford House of Blessing food bank.
House of Blessing will be spending the dollars to upgrade and support the retrofit of their red delivery van with refrigeration equipment.This boost will significantly increase its capacity to safely transport perishable food items, such as dairy and frozen meats.
The Hog Jog’s continuing success comes from the enthusiastic participation of runners and walkers, sponsors and neighbourhood industry cheerleaders, and the many volunteers who participate each year.
Both senior and junior showmanship contestants show off their pigs at the annual Ontario Pork Congress. The annual congress took place this year from June 10-11 at the Stratford Rotary Complex.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
How the Ontario Farmerettes helped feed the masses to save a world war
We are lost without food, and during the period from 1941 to 1952 it was the 40,000 young women who took up the cause to keep the agriculture industry in southern Ontario alive. The film We Lend A Hand tells the story of these remarkable “Ontario Farmerettes,” who are now in their 90s. There were two sold out screenings at Stratford City Hall presented by the Stratford Film Festival, each followed by a Q-and-A with filmmaker Colin Field, Kelly McIntosh and Bonnie Sitter, co-author of the book Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes, which inspired the film.
The inspiring documentary was introduced by Senator Robert Black, who in 2024 successfully played a key role in having Canada Post issue a commemorative stamp recognizing the Farmerettes and their role in keeping the farms running.
When the call went out to high schools around Ontario during the Second World War for workers on the farms, these young girls, aged 14 plus, answered and thrived in their opportunity to support those who had gone overseas to fight. Sixty different camps were set up for the girls to live in for the summer while they worked the farms.
Farmers would come to the camps in the morning to pick up the Farmerettes and take them to their farms, where they would tend the crops and weed the rows by hand. It was hard work, and the pay wasn’t the best, but fresh air, good weather and freedom made them look and feel great. They would work from May 1 until the
fall and if they volunteered to join the Farmerettes, they would not have to sit for their final exams, a motivating factor for many. They came from all over and for many this adventure was their first time away from home. Their stories and anecdotes gathered in the book which inspired the film helps reinforce the importance of their role during the war and in the following years. Their work didn’t end with the war, because the returning soldiers were
offered education or general labour jobs.
“It brings me joy to hear the Farmerettes say, ‘It was the best summer of my life,’ or ‘A summer never to be forgotten,’” Sitter said in a release. “They are finally being recognized for their service. That means everything to me.”
Field, whose first foray into filmmaking was this film, first became aware of the Farmerettes when he met Sitter and felt compelled to capture their stories while he
still could. Now in their 90s, they shared their stories of grit, friendship and the summer jobs that shaped their lives and helped save a war.
“The most rewarding part has been working with the Farmerettes themselves,” said Fields in a release. “They trusted me with their coming-of-age stories and inspired me with their resilience, humour and courage. I’ll carry their wisdom with me always.”
LISA CHESTER Times Correspondent
The photo that sparked the curiosity of co-author Bonnie Sitter to research and write Onion Skins and Peach Fuzz: Memories of Ontario Farmerettes. The book was co-written with Shirleyan English.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Day with familiar favourites
CONNOR LUCZKA
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
For the first time in Stratford, this year’s annual Canada Day parade has a theme: “Canada Strong.” For Mayor Martin Ritsma, that’s particularly needed this year.
“We thought about the military always standing up and advocating for Canada,” Ritsma said, speaking on behalf of the Stratford and District Saddle Club (one of the parade’s co-hosts). “I believe we all need to be part of that, you know, these days.”
The parade, co-hosted with Bethel Pentecostal Church, will be jam packed with 40 participants signed up and ready to go, slightly over the 35 float limit organizers have been working with. This year, there will be a best float prize, with the winner getting their parade fee waived the next year.
Additionally, representatives from the local food bank Stratford House of Blessing will be walking throughout the parade, gathering anything that attendees bring for their food stores. With that in mind, Ritsma is encouraging anyone who can to
bring non-perishables or any food or hygiene item that the House of Blessing is looking for.
“Hunger and poverty don’t take a break during the summer,” Ritsma said.
This year’s parade marshal is Clarence McCallum, who just celebrated his 100th birthday. McCallum is a Second World War veteran, having served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the war, and is a longstanding local legion member.
The parade kicks off on July 1 at 6 p.m. from the corner of Lakeside Drive and Waterloo Street moving north-east from Waterloo Street to Mornington Street, heading west on McCarthy Road West and finishing at the Rotary Complex.
Additionally, a community celebration will take place in Market Square from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be family friendly activities with community partners like the Stratford Public Library and NextStrat, a youth esports collective. Various musical performances will take the stage that day.
Finally, wrapping up the day, the Stratford Kinsmen Club is hosting a concert and fireworks at the Stratford Education Recreation Centre (SERC).
For more information on Stratford’s Canada Day celebration, visit https://www.stratford.ca/en/play-here/ canada-day.aspx#Other-Events-Hosted-Across-theCity.
Children wave from atop a float during the 2024 Canada Day parade. This year’s parade is jam packed, featuring familiar favourites and new features. Mayor Martin Ritsma poses with Clarence McCallum, this year’s parade marshal, during a celebration for his 100th birthday. McCallum is a Second World War veteran, having served in the Royal Canadian Navy during the war, and is a longstanding local legion member.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
(CONNOR LUCZKA PHOTO)
Local Community Food Centre to host Community Farm to Table BBQ
For anyone in Stratford, St. Marys and the surrounding communities who has ever wondered where their food comes from, the Local Community Food Centre (LCFC) is hosting a Community Farm to Table BBQ featuring a tour of the Local’s urban farm in Stratford and a free barbecue lunch at the centre afterwards.
Set for Sunday, July 6 with the farm portion of the day beginning at 11 a.m. at the Local’s urban farm at Dufferin Park (off Oak Street beside the Dufferin Arena), the event will feature a guided tour by the Local’s Urban Farmers group and garden educator Lucas Tingle.
“People don’t know that we have a farm in the middle of Stratford,” said LCFC community connector Julie Docker Johnson. “So, (this event) is to introduce people to the farm. From 11 a.m. until 12 p.m. out at the Oak Street farm, we are going to do tours of the farm, we’re going to have the Urban Farmers, our volunteer team, out there to explain the different things we do and the different techniques that are done. There’s going to be games and things for the kids, and there’s pos-
sibly going to be something for everyone to plant so, throughout the summer, they will be able to go and see something growing.”
From there, the event will move from farm to table with a free barbecue lunch
back at the LCFC from noon until 1:30 p.m. Hotdogs and hamburgers are being donated by Delmar Foods and Egg Farmers of Ontario is donating devilled eggs. Added to that, the LCFC will prepare an array of salads with greens fresh from the
urban farm.
“Come have a barbecue, watermelon and see the Local because if people haven’t seen the Local, it will give them that opportunity as well,” Docker Johnson said. “We just want to introduce the farm so people know what’s going on and that the whole farm-to-table concept is real.”
As part of this event, Stratford Transit is providing a bus to shuttle eventgoers from the LCFC to the farm at 11 a.m., then back to the Local for the barbecue lunch at noon. For those who live near the Oak Street farm, the bus will also be available to take them back there after lunch so they are free to walk straight to the farm at the beginning of the event without worrying about how they will get to and from the Local after the farm tour.
“Everybody’s welcome. There will be a donation box; it’s not necessary, but it’s there,” Docker Johnson said. “The farm is really important and the Urban Farmers and Lucas have worked so hard on it. So, we want people to come see it and understand that whole process. We want people to see that some of the produce they buy at the Access Market in Stratford and the Nourish Market in St. Marys is coming from our own backyard.”
Perth County Reads returns for second season with writer Dan Needles
world.
Libraries across Perth County are once again teaming up to promote reading and community connection through the second annual Perth County Reads program.
The community-wide initiative is designed to inspire conversation, connection and a shared love of literature throughout the county.
This year’s featured title is Finding Larkspur by author and playwright Dan Needles, best known for the beloved Wingfield Farm series. Events and discussions will be held at all Perth County library branches, including the Stratford Public Library.
The season kicked off on June 21 at the Stratford library, where the comical and locally loved Canadian author delighted audiences with stories about life in rural Ontario – starting with his unusual choice of name for his farm.
“I learned that larkspur is a toxic weed in five provinces, and it’s lethal to cattle,” he told the audience. “Why would I call my farm Larkspur? I’m not sure.”
Finding Larkspur explores the modern Canadian village, taking a humorous and thoughtful look at customs and traditions that have endured despite the influence of social media and global corporations. Needles reflects on the institutions and buildings left over from older rural communities – why they were built, what they meant and how they’ve adapted to today’s
At the launch event, he also spoke candidly about the delicate line between writing real people into fiction and respecting their privacy.
“You want to tell the truth, but you have to do it with affection, and there’s a balance between the two,” he said. “You don’t want to be too truthy, or it gets a little bit severe.
“The deepest insult you can hand a person is that they’re not interesting enough to be written about.”
Now in its second year, Perth County Reads invites residents of all ages to read the same book and join in on a series of author talks, book discussions and community events throughout the 2025 season.
The initiative is supported by libraries across Perth County and aims to build community through the power of shared stories.
More information about upcoming events can be found at: perthcountylibraries.ca/pcr2025
GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor
Volunteer members of the Local Community Food Centre’s Urban Farmers work – and laugh – at the Oak Street urban farm in Stratford. Photo courtesy of the Local Community Food Centre
Author Dan Needles signs copies of his book Finding Larkspur at the Stratford Public Library on June 21, during the launch event for the second annual Perth County Reads program. The community-wide initiative is designed to inspire conversation, connection and a shared love of literature throughout the county.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
(AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE PHOTO)
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE Times Reporter
STRATFORD SPORTS
Stratford Tennis Club hosts annual doubles tournament
The Stratford Tennis Club hosted its annual Regional Doubles Tournament on June 14. The tournament was started by Ray Cornish in 1969 and has been played on the second Saturday in June every year since, except for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year's event the 55th edition of the event. Forty-one doubles teams competed in this year’s tournament, including 21 women’s teams and 20 men's teams.
The host club was well represented with five teams in the ladies' event and seven teams on the men's side. After round-robin play, four Stratford ladies' teams qualified for the 'A' playoff, with one heading to the 'B' playoff. Four men's teams advanced to the 'A' playoff, while three played in the 'B' playoff.
The Stratford team of Kim Straus and Heidi Pope-Kis had won this event the last two years, and easily advanced to the 'A' draw after tying with Jovelyn Merle and Beate Gauer of the Waterloo Ten-
nis Club for the highest point total in the round robin portion of the event. The two top point-getters advanced to the 'A' final to set up a clash for the title. Both teams continued their top-notch play. In the end, Merle and Gauer denied Straus and PopeKis their threepeat, scoring a 6-3 victory to take the title. This is Merle and Gauer's first championship in the Stratford event.
Stratford's Marta Andrekovic and Sarah Heaton were eliminated in the 'A' quarter-finals by Straus and Pope-Kis. Joan Aitcheson and Stacy Smith, plus Johanna Billings and Maria Donkers, had strong showings and qualified for the 'A' playoff, but both fell in the round of 16.
Claire Scott and Ava McMillan ended up in the 'B' draw, where they fell in the semifinals to Nancy O'Shea and Susan Vanderhoven of London. O'Shea and Vanderhoven faced off against Becky Seagram and Erin Porter, also from London, in the championship match. In a wellplayed final, Seagram and Porter emerged victorious with a 6-4 win. In their first entry into the Stratford event, Seagram and Porter took home a title.
The Men's 'A' event also saw a two-time defending champion trying for a threepeat. Kristian Kopic and Ryan MacLean of the Waterloo Tennis Club advanced to the final by downing the Stratford team of Adam Monteith and Matt Furlong 6-2 in the semi-finals, keeping the threepeat hopes alive. The second semifinal of the Men's 'A' playoff was also a battle between teams from Stratford and Waterloo. Alex Siuda and Steve Nieboer of Waterloo took down the home club's Mark Barton and Liam Benton 6-1 to set up the all-Waterloo final. Siuda and Nieboer jumped out to a 2-0 lead, but Kopic and MacLean roared back to take the final six games. The 6-2 finals victory gave Kopic and MacLean their third straight title. This is the second-longest championship streak in the tournament's history, trailing only the Handbury brothers, who dominated the event in the 1980s. Stratford's Grant McPherson and Joey Hishon fell to Siuda and Nieboer in the 'A' quarter-finals, while David Nickel and Jason Erb went down to Kopic and MacLean in their quarter-final match.
The men's 'B' final also saw a match-up of teams from Waterloo. First-time tournament entrants Frank Bonet and Justin Lahey took on tournament veterans Jim Kopperson and John Ferland for the 'B' championship. In an evenly played final that went to a tiebreaker, Bonet and Lahey won the title 7-6 (eight points to six in the tiebreaker). Boney and Lahey beat the youngest team in the event, Stratford's Josh and Will Heaton, in the quarter-finals. Stratford's Zdenko Andrekovic and Miki Susic, plus Graham Heaton and Dominik Sadowski, were all eliminated in their 'B' round of 16 matches.
The 55th edition of the Stratford Regional Doubles Tournament was one of the most successful in history thanks to many volunteers and its 2025 sponsors – Vancea Financial Group, Resonance, Brighter Vision, Rheo Thompson Candies, Heaton Health and Beauty, Royal LePage Hiller Realty, GC Financial Group, Deer Park Lodge, Moss Berry Farm and Fisiocrem. The event featured 101 matches throughout the day, making for a long and beautiful day at the Stratford Tennis Club.
Pictured from left to right are Kristian Kopic, Ryan MacLean, Alex Siuda, and Steve Nieboer, all from Waterloo. Kopic and MacLean defeated Nieboer and Siuda in the men’s ‘A’ final of the Stratford Tennis Club’s 55th annual Regional Doubles Tournament on June 14 at the Stratford tennis courts.
Pictured from left are Kim Straus and Heidi Pope-Kis (Stratford) Ladies 'A' Champions
Jovelyn Merle and Beate Gauer. In the ladies ‘A’ final, Gauer and Merle of Waterloo downed Pope-Kis and Straus of Stratford. Forty-one doubles competed in 101 matches in the Stratford-hosted tournament.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
U15 Stratford Flames win Innerkip tournament
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
The U15 Stratford Flames (Himburg) went undefeated to win the Innerkip Minor Softball Tournament on June 20-22.
They opened strong with an 18-5 win over Cambridge, followed by an 11-5 victory against Hagersville. A 4-4 tie with Norwich wrapped up pool play, earning them a spot in the finals.
In the championship rematch against Norwich, the Flames dominated 14-3. Aubrey Schenk sealed the deal with a walk-off home run, capping off a stellar team performance.
The team would like to thank their sponsors, Nicholson Concrete, Crabby Joe's, Ironworkers Local Union 834, Hunter Steel, Optimist Club of Stratford, Food Basics and Joe’s Variety.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
The U15 Stratford Flames (Himburg) went undefeated to win the Innerkip Minor Softball Tournament on June 20-22.
Pictured in the front row, from left to right, are Ayva Culligan, Aubrey Schenk, Serina Proctor, and assistant coach Rachel Horan. In the back row, from left, are coach Casey Himburg, Isla Ritchie, Madison McKenzie, Abby Hurley, Lyla Roth, Hailey Oswald, Mya Thomson, Lydia Dam, and assistant coach Simone Proctor.
Liam Cave becomes youngest winner of Stratford tennis tournament
SPENCER SEYMOUR
Times Regional Reporter
In the Stratford Tennis Club’s Super Set Doubles tournament on June 7, 11-year-old Liam Cave became the youngest ever winner of the tournament, winning the men’s ‘B’ Consolation final alongside his father, Neil.
Liam told the Times he and his father maintaining belief in themselves led to their victory.
“We had success by trusting each other, staying confident and cooperating on the court,” Liam said. “I felt like I could fit in with all the bigger people there, and I felt humbled and proud being the youngest to ever play and win a section at the tournament.”
The final had multiple momentum swings and saw the Caves make a comeback against the team of Josh and Will Heaton, forcing a tiebreaker that would decide the title. Neil and Liam Cave won the tiebreaker seven points to three to secure the 8-7 match win and take the championship.
With the win, Liam became the youngest person to become a Super Set champion in the tournament’s history.
Liam, whose family home is in Waterloo and spends tennis days on his uncle’s farm near Stratford, noted that the sport’s prevalence among his
family led to his development of his tennis skills.
“I started playing tennis at the age of three. I train and play tournament matches in Barbados, Canada and occasionally the USA. I started playing competitive tennis at the age of seven in the Caribbean and most summers in Canada. I got into tennis because my parents played a lot and watched a lot of tennis as well.”
Liam described the consistent dedication that has led to him becoming the youngest Super Set champion in Stratford’s history.
“My tennis skills developed mainly by being committed to training and remaining focused on and off the court. I enjoy it because of its competitiveness and intensity. It is a family sport, and I have also made many friends playing tennis. Being able to play with my dad was very special.”
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Neil Cave and Liam Cave won the men’s ‘B’ Consolation final at the Stratford Tennis Club’s Super Set Doubles tournament on June 7, making the 11-year-old Liam the youngest-ever Super Set champion in the Stratford tournament’s history. “I felt like I could fit in with all the bigger people there, and I felt humbled and proud being the youngest to ever play and win a section at the tournament," Liam said.
Stratford Skating Club hosts annual awards night
The Stratford Skating Club (SSC) hosted its annual awards night for 2025 on June 5. The SSC recognized all their skaters who have achieved Skate Canada assessments in 2024, who are pictured during the ceremony. Pictured in the front row, from left to right, are Ellie Stewart, Emmy Ford, Izzy Pritchard, Katerina Schmidt and Hailey Graul.
In the middle row, from left, are Olivia Clemmer, Melanie Milton, Clara Robertson and Annabelle Stewart. In the back row, from left, are Gigi Wreford, Bella, Nicole Verhoef, Jane McCutchen, Adriana McCutchen, Abby Keane, Honor Gropp and Elena Aroutzidis Desormeaux.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Stratford Festival review: Macbeth on motorcycles an ambitious yet successful exercise in theatrical production
When I first heard director Robert Lepage was going to stage a production of Macbeth set in the brutal and hierarchical world of motorcycle gangs, I had one word in mind – ambitious.
Would the prospect of bringing motorcycles and guns to the stage in a realistic way that stays true to the Shakespearean text be more than the director, cast and crew could handle? Unlike the play’s titular character, it seems Lepage was not driven mad with power, nor did his ambition result in any offstage murders, and the production’s lofty goals were, in my mind, fully realized.
As I continue to be impressed by the Stratford Festival’s set designers this season, the motel pieces designed and built for this production represent a new high bar for what can be accomplished onstage. Built in several segments that can be detached and re-attached to one another, and rotated to offer multiple perspectives of the action unfolding onstage for the audience, this set is not only a suitable modern fill-in for Macbeth’s home, Cawdor Castle, but it may be the best rendition of the castle I’ve ever seen in any production of the Shakespeare classic.
The prop and sound designers, and those responsible for special effects, also deserve commendation for their work as they managed to bring lifelike motorcycles and guns to the stage in a way that made the production feel like a season finale for a show like Sons of Anarchy without distracting from the play’s overall story and dialogue.
That story and dialogue was delivered impeccably by the cast with the right affectations for such a motorcycle gang as its members grapple with the unfolding power struggle with two tyrants driven mad with ambition.
Those two tyrants, Lucy Peacock as Lady Macbeth and Tom McCamus as Macbeth, were particularly potent in their perfor-
mances, as were Austin Eckert as Malcolm, Graham Abbey as Banquo and Tom Rooney as Macduff.
This production’s use of mirrors at the back of the stage to make pool halls and barbecue feasts look larger, and the gang members on their motorcycles appear more intimidating, as well as to bring spirits back from the dead, at least in Macbeth’s mind, was surprisingly effective. Though I knew there was only a small number of actors on stage at any given time, my brain was fully tricked into believing the scope of the story and its implications on other gang members not named in Shakespeare’s original text were much larger and impactful than one might initially believe.
The use of suspension cables and power lifts, specifically for the deaths of an unnamed character at the play’s beginning and Lady Macbeth later on in the story, leant itself incredibly well to helping the production feel more cinematic and, at times, surreal or otherworldly.
Overall, I’d say this production of Macbeth is unlike any staged before it, and it’s certainly my favourite among those I’ve seen.
Macbeth runs at the Avon Theatre until Nov. 2.
Stratford Festival review: Forgiveness a haunting portrayal of refusing to pass on generational trauma
Do the protagonists in Forgiveness, a play adapted by actor and playwright Hiro Kanagawa from author Mark Sakamoto’s 2014 book, Forgiveness: A Gift from My Grandparents, actually find forgiveness in their hearts for the people and countries that did them wrong?
That’s the question I found myself asking at the end of director Stafford Arima’s 2025 Stratford Festival production. Having thought about it for a moment, I think it’s obvious they didn’t.
Mitsue Sakamoto (Yoshie Bancroft) did not forgive Canada and her fellow Canadians for labelling her and all Japanese Canadians as enemies of the state after Japan attacked the United States at Pearl Harbor in 1941, taking their homes and property, locking them away from their families in inhuman conditions and forcing them to work long days for low wages in support of the Canadian war effort without gratitude or even acknowledgement of their labour.
Ralph MacLean (Jeff Lillico) did not forgive Japan and the Japanese POW camp guards and commandant for capturing, starving and beating him, and killing his childhood friends and fellow soldiers. He also struggled to forgive himself for not doing more to save those friends he believes he left behind to die, de-
spite there being little if anything he could have done differently.
Yet while they didn’t forgive, both Mitsue and Ralph – at least within the confines of this story – refuse to pass on their trauma to their children, thereby giving them the chance to live out their own Canadian dreams in whatever form they may take and without the pain of their parents.
This play is almost solely focused on hardships depicted artfully on stage with the use of fog, light and projection, be it the brutal reality of life in a Japanese internment camp in B.C. and the death of Mitsue’s father, Yosuke
(Kanagawa), in the sugar-beet fields of rural Alberta, or Ralph’s suffering at the hands of POW guards and commandant Kato (also played by Kanagawa), who seems to take pleasure in torturing the Canadian solider mentally and spiritually, as well as physically.
But the crux of this story, as alluded to through events unfolding in their children’s lives in the late ‘60s depicted prior to and in between parallel wartime flashbacks from the perspectives of Mitsue and Ralph, takes place in the play’s final scene when Ralph and his wife, Phyllis (Jacklyn Francis), accept an
invitation to dinner at the Sakatmotos’ home in Medicine Hat, Alta. The dinner is meant as an introduction between the MacLeans and Mitsue and her husband, Hideo (Michael Man), after their respective kids – Diane (Allison Lynch) and Stan (Douglas Oyama) – begin dating.
Though Ralph, Mitsue, Hideo, Mitsue’s mother, Tomi (Manami Hara), and, to a lesser extent, Phyllis have ample reason to distrust or even hate one another based on their wartime trauma, they put all that aside and come together amicably for a pleasant meal filled with laughter and light conversation, all for the sake of their kids and their potential future together.
In this production, the emotional heft of all the traumas witnessed on stage is lifted in an instant, which left me feeling hopeful both for the future of Diane and Stan, as well as for the future of this country. Credit for that goes to the considerable acting skills of everyone in this cast, as well as the real, emotional and historical context brought to bear through the production design, specifically with the use of projection to display real historical photographs and news clippings, and artwork.
Anyone in need of a reason to believe in this country again, despite all the hardships, hatred and horrendous acts of violence in our collective history, should see this play.
Forgiveness runs at the Tom Patterson Theatre until Sept. 27.
GALEN SIMMONS
Regional Editor
GALEN SIMMONS
Regional Editor
Graham Abbey as Banquo (front-left) and Tom McCamus as Macbeth with Lucy Peacock as Lady Macbeth in Macbeth. Stratford Festival 2025.
Jeff Lillico as Ralph with Yoshie Bancroft as Mitsue in Forgiveness Stratford Festival 2025.
(DAVID HOU PHOTO)
(DAVID HOU PHOTO)
Dark days call for dark comedy and Bad Shabbos delivers
The Stratford Film Festival (SFF) is pleased to present the ensemble comedy Bad Shabbos for its July 12 screenings in the city hall auditorium at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. This genre blending dark comedy won the Audience Award at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival.
The film follows a young inter-faith couple that gathers with both their families for a Shabbot dinner in New York City, the first time their respective families will meet. Things go awry when familial tensions rise and an unexpected death derails the evening.
Bad Shabbos is directed by Daniel Robbins and co-written with Zack Weiner. “This film is about a family trying to find its place, on a night where they are meeting the in-laws for the first time, while there is a dead body in their bathroom,” said director Robbins.
It stars a powerhouse cast: Kyra Sedgwick, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Jon Bass, Milana Vayntrub, David Paymer, Meghan Leathers, Theo Taplitz and Ashley Zukerman.
“It’s a fun, kinetic ride that pulls from the great comedies of the past,” Robbins adds. “There are pieces stolen from Ernst Lubitsch’s blocking, Billy Wilder’s efficiency, Woody Allen’s aesthetic, Mike Nichols’ performances and Nora Ephron and Neil Simon’s dialogue.” Inspiration is drawn from films like Meet the Parents, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, The Birdcage and Death at a Funeral. These are comedies that blend sharp scripts with big laughs
and heartfelt cultural specificity. Bad Shabbos takes place entirely in the upper west side of New York City, giving heartsick travellers who are missing New York wonderful cameos of beloved deli Barney Greengrass and the authenticity of an actual apartment on the 16th floor of 81st Street. Even the lobby scenes were filmed at the Riverside Drive building made famous by You’ve Got Mail. Festival director Megan Smith-Harris shares her enthusiasm for the film, “It’s summertime, the news cycle is oppressive, so we all could use a little levity, right? Bad Shabbos is a darkly funny, New York-centric ensemble film that delivers real laughs while also leaving you a bit misty-eyed for Manhattan.” Tickets for each showing are available and can be purchased at the SFF website, stratfordfilmfestival.com and are $20 plus fees. The July 12 screenings are at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the city hall auditorium.
Razzamajazz celebrates 35 years entertaining on the Avon River Music and poetry featured at Livery After Dark
The Razzamajazz is celebrating 35 years and has 35 performances on dock for its 2025 season.
The Razzamajazz performance series is done on a 24-foot pontoon boat of the same name that sails around the Avon River and features musicians from Stratford and area performing during the cruise. The upcoming season kicks off on July 2 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with Steve Todd performing.
"It's pretty exciting because it's gone over pretty well year after year,” said skipper Dan Scarborough.
This year’s lineup is all regional, focusing on musicians from Stratford, St. Marys, Seaforth and other nearby municipalities. The lineup includes Hwy 19, Chuckee Zehr, Trish Harris and Townline Slim and Rick Francis.
"It's so important to show our local entertainment,” Scarborough said. “We have some of the other venues that are showing people who are brought into the city to entertain the visitors plus our locals, but it's nice to show our local talent that we have in the area."
The concert series is a hit with both tourists and locals alike.
"I enjoy going up and down the river
watching people dance to the music and big smiles on their faces and the entertainers just having a nice hour and a half out on the river,” Scarborough said.
Scarborough added that the 35-year-old motor will be replaced with a new electric one for this season.
"We're just waiting for a few more parts that haven't come in yet. So, we're hoping to have it on for our first show but if not, we'll put the electric motor on within a week or two after getting it launched,” he said. “It’ll be all electric. We’re going green down the river.”
The Razzamajazz is a volunteer-run vessel with members from Tillsonburg Power and Sail Squadron’s Stratford division. Operating costs such as fuel, maintenance, and paying the talent are about $11,000 a year. The City of Stratford will be dollar matching up to $4,000 in donations through grant funding. Donations can be made to the Razzamajazz either through e-transfer to razzamajazz1992@ gmail.com or by cheque payable to the Razzamajazz. Anyone looking to pay with a cheque can email Scarborough via skipperdan65@gmail.com to arrange a pickup.
For more information including performance schedules, visit online via https://www.stratfordrazzamajazz.ca/ home.
Stratford’s night life will soon be flourishing, as live music and poetry readings kick off with the Livery After Dark series.
The Livery Yard, in partnership with OnRush Music Festival and Destination Stratford, will host the Livery After Dark performances series from July 24-26. The showcase kicks off with Lauren Nielson and students of the Folk Army, a singer-songwriter brigade run by Dayna Manning, on July 24. Sarnia’s Cabin Fever will perform on July 25 and Stratford poet and youth poet laureates David Stones and Quinn Mayer will perform on July 26. All performances begin at 7 p.m.
“It's really cool that we can be able to offer a place and platform for these voices and for these talents," Liesa Hartman, owner of the Livery Yard, said.
Hartman was inspired to bring a performance series to the coffee shop after hours after hearing about the poet laureate program run by the Stratford Public Library.
Tim Harrison, operator of OnRush Music Festival, is a Livery Yard regular and suggested to Hartman to expand on that idea. Eventually, Hartman applied for a grant offered through Destination Stratford.
Livery After Dark is part of Destination Stratford’s initiative Stratford after Dark through its music pop-up fund, which also includes other staples in the local hospitality industry like The Bunker Performance Lounge and Café, Elizabeth’s, Foster’s Inn, Bentley’s, Gilly’s Pubhouse, Starlight and Revival House.
“The Livery Yard has always been a
well-loved daytime hub, its location directly across from the Avon Theatre makes it a natural gathering spot,” Clare McClung, Destination Stratford’s social media and partnership lead, told the Times. “So, when the idea emerged to expand some local venues into ‘after hours’ programming, it felt like a perfect fit.”
McClung said that Stratford After Dark events like Livery After Dark benefit both residents and tourists alike.
“It gives people a reason to linger, explore and connect, whether that’s catching a music performance, enjoying a drink or simply soaking in the atmosphere,” she said. “For locals, it provides an opportunity to rediscover familiar spaces in a new light and feel a renewed sense of pride in their community.”
The Livery After Dark events are free, but a donation of $10 at the door is suggested to support Generation Rainbow Collective, an organization for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in Stratford and area. The Livery Yard has hosted events supporting Generation Rainbow Collective in the past, including a Pride Coffee House. Although there is no Pride Coffee House this year, Hartman said that Livery After Dark will still benefit Generation Rainbow Collective.
"As a parent to two teens, I'd like to think that no matter what your kid does, or says, or is, you support them no matter what –and I think this is a great opportunity to support kids in our local area,” she said. More information about Stratford After Dark participants can be found by visiting https://visitstratford.ca/afterdark.
LISA CHESTER Times Correspondent
With a stellar ensemble cast, Bad Shabbos is a dark comedy sure to bring the laughs. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
EMILY STEWART Times Correspondent
EMILY STEWART Times Correspondent
Earth Rise: George Washington, Mark Twain and Bill 5
ANNA KOWALCHUK
Times Contributor
Let’s begin with Bill 5. Recently voted into law, Bill 5, also called Protecting Ontario by Unleashing our Economy Act, is a well-intended response by the provincial government to counter the U.S.’s petulant and coercive economic measures by making Ontario less bureaucratic and, therefore, more open and appealing to investors.
But it has gone too far. It is a sweeping piece of legislation that includes giving cabinet the power to overrule local concerns or objections and designate any area it wishes to as a special economic zone. And, once so designated, the area will become legally open to business ventures of all kinds, and provincial and local laws and regulations such as those protecting labour and the environment can be watered-down or bypassed entirely.
There are several areas that are being considered for special economic zone
status, but the current priority is an area just north of Thunder Bay rich in cobalt, lithium and nickel, all of which are essential to the production of electric vehicle batteries (please consider using public transit, folks!), known as the Ring of Fire.
Bill 5 will give companies involved the authority to fast-track, even ignore environmental protocols including critical studies and research findings aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats. And, while there have been verbal commitments to consult with the First Nations on whose lands the Ring of Fire is situated, there have been no commitments to actually reaching an agreement before pushing ahead with the mining process.
Fortunately, this project is on hold until such time as it receives federal government approval and funding (which it may or may not), but the threat remains.
And what has the esteemed Mr. Washington to do with any of this? Well, he was and still is highly regarded for his
many fine qualities, most famously for his honesty. When, as a young man, he was confronted with a misdeed of his, he immediately confessed to it, declaring, “I cannot tell a lie!” It seems that it was simply not within his capacity to do other than the good and right thing. Commendable indeed.
But more commendable in my view, and certainly more realistic, is the observation of Mark Twain, alter-ego of 19th century humourist and author Samuel Clemens who, reflecting upon George’s now mythical honesty, remarked, “I can tell a lie but I choose not to.” Choice. Nothing is more fundamental to a free society and nothing more consequential. Our choices can take us to the heights of heroism and they can take us to the depths of villainy.
I have no doubt that Bill 5 is well-meaning in its aim to strengthen Ontario and Canada’s economies, but it is a study in shift to autocracy and in lack of understanding of the complexity and fragility
of life on our planet. It gives permission for commercial interests to override local interests and, especially worrisome, to override environmental obligations at a time when nature is in crisis. A distressing turn of events, to say the least.
But permission is not compulsion. Choice remains here. If they do get the green light, the folks running those companies and their shareholders can certainly choose to take advantage of the steam-rolling power of Bill 5, thereby falling to the depths; or they can choose to put people and planet on par with profit, and with good-will on all sides, leave a legacy of a happy healthy livable world, thus soaring to the heights.
Imagine if you can, dear reader, the (almost) universal roar of approval if they were to choose the latter.
If you know of an individual, company or organization that deserves recognition for their innovative and sustainable environmental practices, please contact me at frogs-a-leaping@tutamail.com.
Canadians standing together? Oh, yes we can
This falls under the category of something we never thought we’d see in our lifetime.
On June 19, the Toronto Star reported that the leaders of the English-rights advocate group Talq in Quebec and the very nationalistic Mouvement national des Québécoises et Québécois (MNQ), who have been at odds with each other for decades, have now found common ground in understanding what the biggest threat to French in Quebec might be. And it’s not what you think.
“The English-speaking community of Quebec is not in itself an existential threat to Quebec,” says the MNQ, but rather “the powerful magnet of American culture” as expressed in film, music and social networks. “We must not make English-speaking Québécois the convenient scapegoat of this difficult problem,” they declared.
For many Canadians, this is a stunning and refreshing turn of events. Perhaps it’s even a call to arms for all Canadians to set aside our regional and cultural differences and look more deeply into their origin, but most importantly find ways to stand together, especially in this consequential time in our history.
There’s no question decades of consumption of American media has not only entertained us, it has shaped our thinking and our values. It may be time to move on.
Most recently, the untested social media products of unregulated tech companies, bad actors and unqualified influencers, have been allowed to distort perspectives of ourselves and pit us against each other, all while reaping massive fortunes via the algorithms designed to artificially feed our discontent. Unregulated AI, as it pursues our creative work, jobs and businesses is just the next chapter. Hopefully, this
new government and the Ministry of AI will be able to establish the protections Canadians deserve.
But the path forward for Canadians must be paved with the will to set aside our biases. We must sincerely open our hearts and minds to the concerns of “the other,” to study them and truly listen. If the French and Anglos can do this in Quebec, so can the westerners and easterners, the fossil fuel companies and Indigenous peoples.
As world events create an ever-increasing state of insecurity, we as Canadians are blessed with a bounty of riches: a diverse population, our environment and natural resources, our technical and cultural prowess and a strong appreciation for our fragile democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
During this hinge moment, as our prime minister reminds us, we must come together. Yes, we must move swiftly, but not so fast that we break the important things. We must take the
time to identify what is of highest value and recognize those things we can do without – for the sake of the nation.
We know there’s finite money, time and natural resources. We know, as a species, we rely upon the well-being of the planet and that how land is used and how the environment is protected needs to be a high priority.
We can be resourceful in our solutions and yet we must be prepared to compromise in thoughtful ways and sometimes do without, to sacrifice.
This Canada Day, it’s time for Canadians to come together and ask what they can do for the nation, as generations have done before us.
Can Canadians stand together? Yes, most certainly we can. Just watch us. Loreena McKennitt is an international, multi-platinum recording artist, a member of the Order of Canada, the former Honorary Colonel of the Royal Canadian Air Force and founder of Wise Communities.
LOREENA MCKENNITT
Times Contributor
OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO: To go or not to go, that was the question
I got the question a lot in the weeks leading up to my trip. “You’re going where? In June? What about the fires?”
Yes, I was bound for Saskatoon and points north in Saskatchewan to attend the annual conference of the Travel Media Association of Canada and to spend a few days on golf courses, part of a pre-tour before the conference. I would be in Saskatchewan from May 31 to June 8 and during that time, parts of the province were being devastated by wildfires. Since I write this a few days ahead of publication, I can only assume the crisis continues.
So, I was faced with four key questions.
First, would it be safe to go to Saskatoon?
Second, would I be occupying accommodations needed for evacuees from the fire zones?
Third, what about the smoke in the air?
Fourth, should I even write about visiting Saskatchewan at such a time?
The answers I found to those questions tell us a lot about what tourism means today; especially what it means to the destinations involved.
Since you are wondering about
the answers to those four questions (and yes, I did go, by the way), here’s what I learned.
I was entirely safe in Saskatchewan and any potential visitor who consults with either Discover Saskatoon or Tourism Saskatchewan will be, too. Our hosts made our safety job one; my pre-tour was monitored, hour by hour, to be sure we were in no way threatened. I got to golf three terrific golf destinations and you will hear more of that in coming weeks.
It's not that the crisis was not in evidence. When they weren’t assigned as our hosts, the two Tourism Saskatchewan staffers who accompanied our golf trip were normally responsible for relations with outfitters who serve fishers and hunters in northern parts of the province. They were on their phones fairly often trying to reassure or comfort worried or devas-
tated clients. We saw the occasional chopper flying overhead and, at one point, a herd of ambulances transferring patients from the La Ronge south to Prince Albert assembled in the parking lot of the Elk Ridge resort where we were staying and playing. But all of this was being carefully monitored and we were safe and welcome.
When it came to accommodations, it was intriguing how some bits of information get misunderstood almost immediately. There were, indeed, news reports asking people to stay away from a fire-ridden province because accommodations would be needed for evacuees, but those requests did not come from Saskatchewan – they were from Manitoba, an entirely different province!
Those Manitoba requests were sincere. By coincidence, we flew to Winnipeg to visit and stay with
family after my return from Saskatoon, and before publication of this article, the tourism office made sure we were not taking up hotel space needed for evacuees. But that wasn’t the case in Saskatchewan, even though a few conference registrants decided not to come for that misunderstood reason.
And what about dealing with smoke in the air? This may be the oddest part. Our most northern destination was the village of Waskesiu, which is less than an hour’s drive from the closest wildfire. Yet in my nine days in Saskatchewan, I smelled or spotted smoke only once – on the day of my arrival in Saskatoon.
As our small group travelled north, playing golf all the way up to Elk Ridge, the skies were clear and blue. Meanwhile, I kept hearing about smoky air in southern Ontario, Québec, the U.S. and
even Europe. It all depended on wind direction – and there definitely were powerful winds.
At one of the wonderful dinners we enjoyed as guests of Tourism Saskatchewan, I wondered aloud if I should write about all of this any time soon. Our hosts, Daryl Demoskoff and Travis Pool, were surprised that I would even think about delaying publication of the several good stories I came home with.
“Tourism is an essential part of Saskatchewan’s economy,” they said. “And as you have seen, there is lots of Saskatchewan that is open and ready to receive guests. Don’t tell your readers not to come – tell them they are welcome!”
Let’s be clear. That’s the message from Saskatchewan, where most of the communities and areas hit by wildfires do not have large populations. It’s not the case in Manitoba where there are well over 20,000 evacuees and where tourists have been asked to stay away.
But as far as Saskatchewan goes, you are welcome.
And leaving the topic of wildfires aside for a moment, I have to say that Saskatchewan was a wonderful revelation. I had never visited the province, except as a drivethrough. Turns out, I could not be more wrong. Saskatchewan is an amazing destination in its own right and you will be reading more about Saskatchewan in the coming weeks right here, including a feature on making some pretty spectacular Saskatchewan-created cocktails!
Stay tuned.
Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and President of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@golden. net.
On the author's first day in Saskatchewan, the atmosphere was slightly smoky, as seen in this photo at Dakota Dunes golf course.
PAUL KNOWLES Times Contributor
A beautiful day for golf at Elk Ridge. None of these photographs were photoshopped or improved in any way.
Clear skies over Saskatoon; while the Tourism Saskatchewan and Discover Saskatoon conference hosts monitored the fire situation constantly, the visit to Saskatchewan proceeded essentially as planned, and local tourism authorities encouraged writers to continue to produce Saskatchewan travel stories.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Travel journalist honoured for feature writing, leadership
STRATFORD TIMES STAFF
stratfordtimes@gmail.com
Travel journalist Paul Knowles, who writes a regular travel feature for this newspaper and eight other papers in the Grant Haven Media newspaper group, was doubly honoured at the annual conference of the Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC).
The TMAC conference was held earlier this month in Saskatoon, Sask., where the hosts – Discover Saskatoon and Tourism Saskatchewan – encouraged members of the travel media to continue to write about the province and the city. Though parts of Saskatchewan are currently suffering major wildfires, the province’s tourism leaders stressed that continued tourism is crucial to the economic welfare of the province.
During the conference, Knowles was honoured for his service as president of TMAC. He has served in that role for two years following two years as vice president and previous time on the national board and as chair of the TMAC Ontario chapter board. Knowles also received an honourable mention as one of five finalists for the “TMAC Best Food and Drink Story” for a feature published in the Grant Haven Media newspapers in 2024. The TMAC awards received about 500 entries this year.
Close to 200 TMAC members came from across Canada and the United States to attend the conference. TMAC is a unique association because half of the membership are Canadian travel media while the other half are destination representatives from Canadian and international travel destinations and attractions. The TMAC conference offers the premier networking opportunity for Canadian travel media.
STRATFORD SCRABBLE CLUB
Anne Hathawy Residence 480 Downie St., Stratford Meets every Wednesday evening at 7 p.m. for 3 games. Check our website for further details stratfordscrabble.ca STRATFORD LAWN BOWLING CLUB OPEN HOUSE
Saturday June 14 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Stratford Municipal Golf Course
No experience or equipment needed. Instruction and equipment provided. Wear comfortable clothes and flat shoes/sandals. (And no, you don’t have to wear white!!)
FOOD TRUCKS
Grace United Church. Tavistock
July 7, 2025 from 4:30-7:30
Crystal's Fries, El Milagro, Pablas Street of India, Moreish Ice Cream Donations to Tavistock Medical Clinic
FOOD TRUCKS
Grace United Church. Tavistock
July 14, 2025 from 4:30-7:30
Berlin 95, Ish n Chips, Fo'Cheezy Donations to Camp Bimini
Born2Eat, Wild Boar, Los Rolling Tacos Donations to Grace United Church FOOD TRUCKS
Grace United Church. Tavistock
August 4, 2025 from 4:30-7:30 Wing Monster, Wild Boar, Ish n Chips Donations to Camp Bimini
Contact: stratfordtimes@gmail.com
Incoming Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC) president Jerry Grymek (right) presents a framed photo signed by all TMAC board members to retiring president Paul Knowles.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Oliver family joins Paws and Claws and Beyond Fetch pet services together
EMILY STEWART Times Correspondent
Crystal Oliver always loved all kinds of animals, so much so that she began Paws and Claws at just 11-years-old.
Paws and Claws was founded in 2006 and started off with Crystal taking care of her family and friends’ pets. The business quickly expanded to several clients.
About four or five years ago, Crystal moved to London and founded Beyond Fetch, which serviced London, Dorchester and Thorndale. Her mother Lori Oliver took over Paws and Claws. Crystal has now moved back to Perth County and services Stratford, St. Marys and area, along with Thorndale, as Paws and Claws and Beyond Fetch join together.
"I honestly didn't expect it to blow up as much as it did and I wouldn't change my job for anything else. It's one of the best careers I've had in my entire life,” Crystal said.
Paws and Claws provides dog walking and pet sitting in St. Marys and area. Beyond Fetch provides pet sitting and dog walking in Stratford, as well as overnight visits, dog training, and homemade dog treats.
Paws and Claws is also celebrating its 19th year in
business, something that Crystal called “surreal”.
“It started off as just like so small and then it started grew into such a huge thing,” she said. “We couldn't thank everybody enough for trusting us with their fur family and fur babies. It really means a lot that we have so many people willing to trust us with everybody."
Lori added that as the family has been part of St. Marys for so long, the town is quite familiar with the pet care services.
“We got a lot of people that help recommend us,” Lori said.
"We're looking at different ideas to grow the business and just keep pushing forward,” Crystal added. “We like to grow big.”
Both Beyond Fetch and Paws and Claws have Facebook pages that can be found online. To contact Lori of Paws and Claws, either call 519-854-1985 or message her on Facebook. Crystal of Beyond Fetch can be contacted by calling 519-615-9283, sending an email to beyond.fetch@hotmail.com or by visiting online via https://beyondfetch.godaddysites.com.
CLASSIFIEDS
Thankyou
From the family of Clifford William ‘Bill’ Strawbridge
Our father’s life touched so many people’s lives and it was equally true during his decline in health and subsequent death. We want to thank all the people who provided support to our father and to his family. Bill’s family is forever grateful to Suzanne, for helping us support Dad in his home. We also appreciate the compassionate care provided by the Medicine unit at Stratford General Hospital. Although Dad’s time at Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth was short, it was a gift to be able to gather there and spend time with Dad during his final days. The setting, care team and wrap around support for Dad and everyone, was extraordinary. Thank you to Kelly, Katie and the Stratford Perth Museum team for allowing us to hold his visitation at this place he loved, and contributed to in so many ways. The overwhelming attendance was heartwarming. Please accept our apology if we were unable to speak with you during the event. Dean, thank you for speaking about Dad’s early life and history as a problem solver, professionally, in the Stratford community and beyond. Dad’s celebration of life at Avondale United Church was second to none. Thank you to the entire Avondale team. Finally, thank you to W.G. Young for the coordination and attention to detail, honouring Dad’s life.
Sincerely, the Strawbridge, O’Donovan & Walker families
$ Cash Paid $ for your RECORDS and LPs. Jazz, Blues, Rock, Pop, Folk, Soundtracks, and more. Selectively buying CDs, Cassettes, Turntables, and Stereo Equipment. For more information: DIAMOND DOGS MUSIC 114 Ontario St. Stratford / 226-972-5750
WANTING 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. We are at the Pinery Market at Grand Bend every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call or text Stan anytime 519-868-3814.
Fair value offered for your vinyl records, cassette tapes & hifi components. Please contact Sound Fixation, 519801-5421, 4 George St. W, Stratford.
I WILL PAY CASH FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES – Coca Cola Pepsi any pop company, Brewery items Kuntz, Huether Labatts etc. Old radios and gramophones, Wristwatches and 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.
Looking for Employment in Stratford or surrounding area. Hard working, reliable, with full G driver’s license. Randy 519-271-8137.
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)
96 workable acres, more or less * systematically tiled * Part Lot 18, Concession 13 Downie, Township of Perth South, County of Perth, Located at 4697 Line 15 The highest or any offer need not necessarily be accepted by the Vendor. Tenders will be accepted until 12:00 noon on Tuesday, July 15, 2025.
For tender forms contact: Monteith Ritsma Phillips Professional Corporation Barristers and Solicitors
Attention: James Burns 6 Wellington Street, Stratford Phone: 519-271-6770
Email: burns@stratfordlawyers.com or lmacdonald@stratfordlawyers.com
CONDO FOR RENT – Available July 1 $1950/ month plus utilities. This unit features 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom Open concept ground floor unit. Perfect
Crystal's mom, Lori Oliver, services the St. Marys area with dog walking and pet sitting services in St. Marys and area.
(CRYSTAL OLIVER PHOTO)
Riddles
Why did the Canadian cross the road? To say sorry to the other side!
What’s a Canadian’s favorite game? Sorry!
Why don’t Canadian cows wear bells? Because their horns don’t work, eh?
How do you get 50 Canadians out of a swimming pool? Say, “Please get out of the pool.”
What do you call a polite, hockeyplaying tree? A Maple Leaf!
Why do Canadians do so well in school?
Because they always bring their “Eh+” game!
What’s Canada’s national bird? The snow-chirp!
How do you spell Canada? C-eh-N-eh-D-eh!
What do Canadian zombies eat? Maple brains!
What did the beaver say to the tree? It’s been nice gnawing you!
Why did the moose bring sunscreen? Because it was going to Moose-eh Beach!
SHADOW
Meet Shadow, an 8-year-old sweetheart with a big personality and an even bigger heart! This lovable lady is the perfect mix of snuggly and playful, always ready for a cozy cuddle or a burst of fun. Shadow is currently enjoying life in a foster home, where she’s showing off her charm and purrsonality. If you think she could be your perfect match, be sure to inquire ahead of time to arrange a meet and greet. Learn more about Shadow at kwpshumane.ca.
