Tillsonburg Post - March 6, 2025

Hardeman easily captures Oxford

Ernie Hardeman successfully kept Oxford blue in the 2025 provincial election, capturing 55 per cent of the vote.

It was only six minutes after the polls closed until the media were declaring that Premier Doug Ford and the PCs had won a third mandate. Two minutes later, media called it a majority and Hardeman’s campaign manager Shelley Ratelband announced his victory locally to a cheering crowd at a post-election party in the Woodstock Legion.

Final results for Oxford were: Hardeman 27,061 votes (55.26 per cent); Liberal Bernia Martin, 11,348 votes (23.17 per cent); NDP Khadijah Haliru, 5,374 votes (10.97 per cent); Green Party of On-

tario Colton Kaufman, 2,182 votes (4.46 per cent); Ontario Party Grace Harper, 1,414 votes (2.89 per cent); New Blue Party Peter Beimers, 1,317 votes (2.69 per cent); Libertarian Henryk Szymczyszyn, 276 votes (0.56 per cent). Voter turnout was 49.20 per cent, an improvement over the 46.45 per cent in 2022.

Arriving at the party, Hardeman entered to cheers and thanked Ratelband and his campaign team, his family, and supporters.

“It is as great an honour today as it was in 1996,” the nine-term MPP said humbly. “The worry about winning didn’t decrease in all those races. The first one was the easiest as I had nothing to prove. After that, it became a report card on my past service.”

Oxford County Council keeps garbage bag tag cost at two bucks

Ryan during last week’s regular council meeting.

Members of Oxford County Council discussed a potential one dollar increase on the cost of putting a bag of garbage out on the curb for nearly an hour at last week’s regular meeting. The motion was defeated, as was another motion to have staff take a closer look at the current garbage collection system.

Both motions went down after identical five to five recorded votes, something which visibly frustrated Warden Marcus

“One of, if not the main role, of a head of council is to deliver effective and efficient council meetings and I think sometimes we all, elected officials and residents, get caught up in the politics of what we do and the popularity of the decisions we make but, in the end, we are there to govern.”

Ryan added governing means passing policy and budgets and then hand those decisions over to staff to deliver services.

JEFF HELSDON Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

ANOTHER WIN FOR HARDEMAN

Ernie Hardeman, PC candidate for Oxford, is congratulated by his wife Rita after winning a ninth term as the MPP for the riding. He captured 55 per cent of the vote.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Hardeman looking forward to getting back to work for Oxford

Asked about the highlights of the campaign, Hardeman said he was pleased with the candidates running and how the election was conducted.

“It was never personal when they talked to the media about the election – they were fighting the Ford government,” he said.

One of the personal highlights for Hardeman was the leader’s debate, and how the premier did a good job presenting his platform.

“It didn’t matter what the other leaders put forward, he didn’t lose his cool,” Hardeman said.

One of the things Hardeman said he had to defend the most on the campaign trail was why there was an early election.

“The reason we had to do that is the premier said in order to negotiate, you need to be there for the duration,” he said.

Hardeman said he is looking forward to getting back to work representing the people of Oxford and assisting with challenges they may face. Those challenges ranged from helping individual constituents who have an issue with government services to working with municipalities and hospitals to get the health and addiction hub in place in Woodstock.

On the health care front, Hardeman said money was announced to assist with primary care, but not yet doled out before the election. He is hopeful the next announcement could include funding for a nurse practitioner-led clinic in Tillsonburg. He did mention the preference for health care delivery with wraparound services that included many health practitioners.

Word from other candidates

Although a distant second, Martin was positive on the results.

“We have achieved an outcome that many thought was impossible given the short campaign period, the weather conditions, and the voting history in this riding,” she said. “We reached new voters, and we educated people.”

Many people told Martin she was a “solid candidate and had a lot of potential” but they couldn’t vote Liberal.

“We will have to take a closer look at that sentiment and determine how best to address that concern for voters who really were looking for a provincial representative that could take on the issues facing our riding,” Martin added.

Going forward Martin said she is not interested in running federally and will focus on her role as a city and county councillor until the next provincial or municipal election.

Haliru wasn’t surprised with the results on election night.

“From day one, we knew this was going to be a long shot, but for me, this campaign wasn’t just about winning a seat. It was about aligning so well with the NDP and hopes of what we could do with (leader) Merits Stiles’ new fire as we saw in her role of opposition, and it was also about asserting my place at the table, showing that first-generation immigrants, diverse voices, and women like me belong in these spaces,” she said.

A positive for Haliru was being vetted and validated as the candidate for the NDP.

“I've been misunderstood and silenced in my journey so many times,” she said.

Indoor pool reopening the week of March 10

Swimmers anxiously awaiting the reopening of the indoor pool at the Tillsonburg Community Centre may be back in the water as early as March 10.

“We’re very close to re-opening,” said Julie Dawley, Recreation Programs & Services Manager. “We have to have an occupancy inspection, along with a health inspection, and if we can get through both of those events without any issues emerging,

then staff will be able to get back in the pool for training.”

“We know this project has required more patience than anyone anticipated,” said Andrea Greenway, Director of Recreation, Culture and Parks. “But just as home renovations often don’t go quite according to plan, this project had several surprises in it as well. We’re almost there—almost--and that is really exciting news for the community.”

“It showed me, and hopefully others, that our stories, our experiences, our ideas matter. I had the chance to engage with people directly, to hear their hopes and frustrations, and to stand proudly in my truth as a Black, Muslim, immigrant woman running in a space where people like me are often underrepresented. That visibility and validation alone is a win”

One thing she heard at the doors is people are tired of being unheard on many issues.

As for the future, Haliru said this wasn’t her “last dance”. She vowed to continue to show up at the provincial, municipal and community level.

Beimers was disappointed with the results on election night, and didn’t see any positives coming out of the campaign.

“Not much, if anything,” he answered. “$190 million spent to bring the Liberal Party to official party status. Everything Doug Ford will do in the immediate future, he could have done without this election. Truly a waste of taxpayers’ money.”

On the campaign, he heard concerns about the educational system, gender identity, critical race theory, how expensive life is becoming and housing costs.

Beimers said he would like to run again if the opportunity presents itself.

“I still believe New Blue's policies are the best for Ontario, that it is truly the only conservative option for Ontario,” he said. “New Blue will be here, ready, for when the people of Oxford and Ontario realize that the PC Party has abandoned traditional conservative values.”

Harper was hoping to win, but was happy to spread the word about the Ontario Party.

“Also, because we are a grassroots movement, every time we run a campaign, we learn a great deal about the political process,” she said. “We hope to use this campaign to put the Ontario Party in a position to win Oxford next time round.”

She saw a positive in meeting so many people at the door and hearing their stories. These included a Tillsonburg resident in a senior’s apartment complaining of an elevator not running for a year to concerns about Bill 197 taking away the ability for municipalities to say no to landfills.

Harper has plans to run again either municipally or provincially.

Responses were not received from the Libertarian or Green Party candidates.

Linda Co dham ** Crysta Ketchabaw * Brandon K

Rob Koppert

Broker of Record/Owner

After winning in the Feb. 27 election, Ernie Hardeman addressed his supporters at the Woodstock Legion. He thanked his campaign team and those in attendance for their role in the victory.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Grant Haven Media partners with Paris Independent Paris’ online newspaper will launch print edition in March

Publisher

“Start the Presses!” was the big headline in the Saturday, Feb. 15 online edition of The Paris Independent, as managing editor Casandra Turnbull broke the exciting news to her hometown that their newspaper would be available for the first time in print format on Wednesday, Mar. 19. Effective Mar. 1, the Paris Independent becomes the 11th newspaper under our Grant Haven Media banner as we continue to follow our mandate of “restoring local journalism, one community at a time.”

I have admired the work of the Paris Independent for over a year; ever since our company expanded into Brant County in January

2024 with the purchase of the Brant Farms publication. The Paris Independent, like the St. Marys Independent in my hometown, developed locally in response to failures of the media conglomerates to safeguard local news reporting. Three years after St. Marys saw the closure of its Journal-Argus, Paris lost its Star.

Paris Independent founder Chris Whelan wrote in his history column this week about the rich history of journalism in Paris. “The Paris Star, a stalwart publication, stood as a testament to the town’s commitment to news dissemination … Had fate been kinder, the Paris Star would have celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2025. Alas, the echoes of its presses fell silent in 2020, hushed by the hand of Postmedia.”

Though Postmedia had closed the Paris Star during the pandemic, along with 14 other community newspapers, a grassroots campaign began the following year to fill this void.

“Throughout the majority of 2021, our community endured a notable absence of a vital communication

channel precisely when it was most needed,” recalled Whelan, who put a call on social media hoping to find like-minded people to help launch a new digital publication. “The outpouring of support was truly overwhelming, notably from key figures such as Casandra, the former editor of The Paris Star until 2011.”

The first edition of the online Paris Independent was launched in September of 2021. For each of the last 180 weeks, Whelan, Turnbull, and the rest of their Paris-based team have put out a digital newspaper, building up a loyal following of over 2,000 readers. Still, an online paper has its limitations. It’s not something that you can see or be aware of when you are walking the streets of Paris and visiting the stores, restaurants, or coffee shops.

Last month, I met with Chris for lunch at the Cobblestone Public House in Paris and suggested that we establish a partnership with the goal of converting the Paris Independent into a print publication so that it may make an even greater impact to its community, with a more visible pres -

ence and a powerful new distribution model.

Following our meeting, Chris, who I’ve found quickly to be a kindred spirit, consulted with Casandra who agreed that this was the perfect time to take their newspaper in this direction.

“This was always our end goal,” said Casandra of a print edition. “When we started the Paris Indepen -

dent, we promised the community that if it was viable, one day we would roll out a print edition. With a strong online presence and digital footprint, it's only natural that we take that next step in growth and publish a weekly edition that will reach stores, businesses and community centres across Paris. Even as the community has adjusted to digital news, we still get the occa -

sional question, 'where can I pick up a copy?' There will always be a longing for a print edition, something tangible to hold in your hands and flip the pages as you digest what is happening in your own backyard.”

The presses will begin to roll soon, with the first print edition being delivered to Paris on Mar. 19, while also being available online at www.granthaven.com.

Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!

Publisher

Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com

Editor

Jeff Helsdon • jeff@granthaven.com

Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries

Stacie Eden • info@tillsonburgpost.com

Business Development

Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com Administration

Jen Gaetan • jen@granthaven.com

Contributors

Jeff Tribe, Laurel Beechey, Debbie Kasman, Paul Knowles

36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 info@tillsonburgpost.com | 519.655.2341 | granthaven.com

STEWART GRANT

Some of the Paris Independent team got together at the Paris Inn recently to plan for the first print edition and beyond. Pictured from left to right: George Le Gresley (Sports Reporter), Michelle Malvaso (Photographer), Stewart Grant (Publisher), Casandra Turnbull (Managing Editor), and Chris Whelan (Editor).

(CINDY WHELAN PHOTO)

EDITORIAL

Being a good person in the community is its own reward

Growing up on a dairy farm suited John Danbrook. The youngest of seven, he loved every aspect of farm life, and his fondest wish was to become a farmer himself one day. His father raised purebred Jersey cows, and the summer season meant haying and showing at numerous country fairs across Ontario. It was up to young John to groom, wash and prepare the cows to show.

He participated in his first fair at six years of age, leading cattle around before the judge, ensuring the correct posture, head up, feet situated properly; showmanship is an important aspect of the process. He attended 4-H club for 10 years and reflects the responsibility involved.

"You would select one, that's your calf for that year. You’d report on growth, weight, girth, graph it and monitor the calf, keeping it separate from others."

Leaders would show up for an unannounced inspection, to see if the stall was clean, fresh water was provided, and the overall care was up to standards. The pinnacle of all of his hard work was showing at the fair. At 16,

Danbrook won the 4-H Overall Award, and in the Junior Jersey Rally, he won the Showmanship Award. It was a period of personal growth and development.

Farm life also included repair and maintenance, and Danbrook enjoyed taking things apart and putting things back together, tinkering with go-karts and dirt bikes. When his father retired from dairy farming, moving the family to Tillsonburg, his aspirations gradually changed. After taking automotive classes throughout his high school years, he enrolled in the automotive technician program at Fanshawe College, graduating with the highest mark in his class. Excelling in the process of acquiring his ministry license, he received the interprovincial seal, allowing him to work anywhere in Canada. His skills allowed him to complete his apprenticeship in three years (rather than five) and he worked in various shops before opening his own business in 1990, starting out by fixing cars in his own driveway. Eventually he opened two bays for general service with Esso at the corner of Broadway and Oxford Streets. He had already built a solid reputation and found that he couldn't meet the demand and had to turn down work.

He relocated to the former Ford dealership next door before purchasing property, building and opening Danbrook Automotive in 1995. He’s run an award-winning business for 35 years, earned through his dedication to solid service, long working hours, and maintaining a solid team, but there's a bit more to the story of his success.

He had only been in business for himself for a year when he stopped to help an older couple from Brampton stranded on the highway. He checked under the hood and told them what was wrong, but they were sure they

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

With Team Canada’s great victory in the Four Nation’s Hockey Championship game in Boston, will the ‘chant’ coming from the White House be: “U.S.A., U.S.A., we’re not afraid, beat us last night, tomorrow we invade.”

It’s terrific being a Canadian in the land that’s “strong and free”. Canada’s our name, and hockey’s our game.

Thank you, Team Canada!

Brian O’Rourke Tillsonburg

could make it home. They didn't get far. Spotting them a second time, he towed them into Tillsonburg to his shop, but stores were closed, and it was going to be impossible to get parts. He called a friend to unlock his shop, got the part that was needed and completed the repair, charging the couple only $86. He didn't hear from them again.

Two weeks later an article appeared in the Sunday edition of the Toronto Star. The couple had written a letter to the editor, incredulous that people like this still existed, and promoting his shop in gratitude.

Danbrook smiled, remembering, "The Tillsonburg paper picked it up too, and for years it brought in a lot of customers. It jump-started the business. I’d still like to find that couple to thank them.”

His actions wouldn't surprise people who know him, including his wife Jenny, recently retired from a 30-year nursing career. Their three children all live in the area, and they enjoy being able to spend time with their four grandchildren.

Elected as a lifetime member of the Kinsmen Club, a Shriner, and a Mason, Danbrook is definitely community minded.

"My parents raised me with good values," he said, "and the Kinsmen Club gave me a solid foundation for being a good person in the community. When you surround yourself with good people, good things will happen.”

Be ready for change in waste disposal in Oxford

A potential bag tag hike brought the spotlight on waste disposal within Oxford County at last week’s county council meeting. While the consensus seems to be residents don’t want bag tag fees to increase, there is much, much more to the issue. Being in the south of Oxford County, Tillsonburg residents look with envy at the “free” garbage disposal in neighbouring Norfolk County. There are many sayings about nothing in life is free, and that certainly applies in this case. Waste disposal in Norfolk County – where residents can put up to four bags to the curb without an additional free – is included in the taxes. Hold on to that thought for a moment –by putting a fee on bag tags, Oxford County is charging a tax or user fee on garbage disposal. Looking into the merits of this concept is another lengthy debate, but the concept of a 50 per cent increase in what amounts to garbage tax is unacceptable and residents have a right to be upset. But, as was mentioned, there is more to what is a complicated issue. Along with the increase in fees, Oxford County will be implementing a six-day collection cycle as of Jan. 1, 2026. Garbage pick-up is currently on a five-day cycle, the same day of the week each week. With the new system it will change. For example, if pick-up is

Monday this week, it will be Tuesday next week. So, the proposal is to pay more for less service. If you think that is confusing, it gets worse.

Blue Box pick-up was an expense that municipalities carried. A provincial change in regulations means producers – for example soft drink manufacturers, restaurants and even those using cardboard packaging – will have to pay, and in the case of Oxford County, a producer organization will be operating the system. This has two-fold impacts: the county’s waste budget no longer has to fund Blue Boxes and the still-to-be-set day of Blue Box pick-up may not be the same as garbage pick-up. It’s enough to make residents heads spin.

Complicating waste collection even more is the contract for pick-up is up for renewal in Oxford and the cost increased substantially and a provincially-mandated green bin system for picking up organics. County councillors are also rightfully trying to extend the life of the Salford landfill site.

In a time when some residents may find themselves out of a job, or see tightening budgets, due to a potential tariff battle with the United States, many can’t afford an increase in bag tags. When one considers

there should be some room in the budget from not paying for Blue Boxes, it’s time to hit pause on the decision to increase garbage taxes and look for further efficiencies.

is the

ROBIN KRAFFT

Tillsonburg Post Columnist

(ALIYAH HELSDON PHOTO)

Called the tree of life, cedar has meant many things to people since ancient times. With its wood valued for water resistance and a pleasant smell, the boughs of cedars provide shelter to wildlife, and can be part of sustaining life.

Now

time to contact the county councillors whose opinion you don’t agree with to talk trash, instead of trash talking them on social media.

George Tillson’s walk to the town that would bear his name

THE STAGE IS THE WORLD

March 6, 2025

The Stage is the World [George’s Walk to T’burg] by Laurel A. Beechey

In 1824, George scouted the Otter Creek having learned from a local indigenous man of the convergence of three creeks. He found the Otter, Stoney and Clear creeks powerful enough to run his forge. He purchased 600 acres.

You and your family can follow “The Old Dereham Record”, George’s 200-year-old notes, which were donated to Annandale National Historic Site by his great-grandson George Edwin Tillson in 1998. They tell who he overnighted and traded with. Transcribed with original spelling, punctuation etc in Italics, [added info in brackets]. An 1815 map shows only two roads he could use from Potter’s Creek/Normandale, County Rd #10 north to Col. Talbot’s Rd. [Hwy#3]. Use https://www.ontario.ca/ files/2022-11/mto-orm-map2-enfr-2022-11-30.pdf to join with him.

“Satterday [March 12th] loaded waggon for Deerham furnace finished loading and started, went by Brinings and took on three meet barrels and from thence to Mr. Fairchild, [Lot 13, 5th concession (Walsh) of Charlotteville,] and left 2 barrels and keeping half bushels of salt and took on board some help [Sunday March 13th,] and proceeded to Mr. Blanys and put up. [Blaney: Lot 9 Concession 10, Charlotteville Township north side of McDowell Road and east side of Yuell Road.]

Monday [March 14th,] morning left Blanys and proceeded to Frederick Saverien, bated with hay and took 2 bundles of oats along - got Mr. Lassing [Lawson?] t o help unload and load at big creek hill [Fredericksburg, now Delhi] and help up at north creek gave him a peter [pewter?] kettle, proceeded to Vanalstines and put up. Tuesday [March 15th] , morning started on, got 2 armfuls of hay at Ronsons [Courtland] and took to the woods- called at Panlyey and Tisdales sugar camp got Lotts Steens and Fanleys Bay to help through the mud to Ronsons camp, discharged at [?] Bay & Steens - and got Ronsons Bay and Steens to go through all the mud to the pine land, from thense proseeded to the end of the road, choped some road and put up under my waggon. wednesday [March 16th,] morning rained before day and it sleeted, chopped some

more road come on hand rain drove my oxen down to Valley, [Otter Valley] and stayed till Thursday [March 17th,] fore noon -got old Mr. Hawley and his son Daniel, Mr. Smith and his brother in law to come up with me to cut out the road, fetched up half bushel potatoes from old Mr. Hawley, chopped road in after noon and got the waggon in Deerham five [?] rods, went to site built a camp, cooked supper and slept. First Night in Derham Forge Friday [Mar.18th] morning went to cutting road again and some time in the after noon arived at the site with the waggon (s?) and cut and piled under brush till night, old Mr. Hawley went down to his son Williams and fetched up a bushel of oats for the oxen.

Satterday [Mar. 19th] morning cleaned off a building spot, chopped some logs and began a house and got it up 3 logs high on two sides and my men went home - let Mr. Smith have half bushel salt to (two) of Mr. Smiths day (days) work (e?) to be place to old Mr. Hawley account - and his other day and the 3 days of his Brother in-law to be placed to Smiths own account Smith and to (1?) small spider till it is returned. [for setting the kerf (tooth angle)

on a wood saw.] [Sunday, Mar. 20th There is a Hawley in Bayham which is S.W. in 1856] Sunday morning went down to rush for salted up oxen [salt for the oxen] and took a direct southwesterly direction and come out to Hawley, road at the tar kill [tar kiln]. butifull ground all the way for a road and fine getting up the other hill on a south course from the lower corner o big hand - a little afternoon started from Mr. Hawleys in the west settlement, and Wilcoxes to see about some hay axes and to Arianills [Aria mills?] to seabout [see about] boards, B L & C and to look a road through [Monday Mar. 21st] found good ground for road on a Strate line from the mouth of Stoney Creek to south west corner of Dyer and Wilcox Lot, got my ax fixed by Dyer and Wilcox got half bushel potatoes of Agive Healy, got 26 ½ lb flour of Schooley and Norwich mill. [Tuesday Mar. 22nd] ??- got a second bushel of oats of William Hawley [Mar. 23rd Wed.]-Hedges & Miller worked 4 days at choping and making shingle [Mar. 24th Thu]-Abraham Gilbert worked 4 days and Peter Gilbert worked 5 days choping [Mar. 25th Fri]- John & Ebenezer Healy, worked 5 days each [Mar. 26th Sat.]-On

Sattrerday Flo Miller A.+B Gilbert came at noon and went home Sunday afternoon after Raising house

Mar. 27th Sun. Completed raising George and Nancy’s home Miller and Gilbert went home. [There are Millers and Gilberts in Bayham, in the 1856 lot map] -Samuel Healy worked 4 days a cooking, Samuel Healey Dr (?) to 1 ½ gallon kettle -Abraham Gilbert Dr (?) to 1 ½ gal kettlePeter GilbertDr (?) to 1 flash powder. -18th of April [Monday] B. Van Norman & H. Tillson began fixing waggon, started from Air Furnace 19th and got as far as F. Saverigns, at night Wednesday came to Furnace Site Deerham without help - on Thursday B.V. went to Hawleys Louks (etc?) H. T. went to Norwich after Boards etc. [Dereham Forge to Norwich is 14.7 km 3hrs 18min] April 23 & 24 [Sat & Sunday] worked 1 day raising house? - On Satteurday Flo Miller A+ B Gilbert came at noon and went home on Sunday after noon after Raising house

Above work carried on to Work Book. Since the 18th April Mr. Ray Middletown to 1 small Tea Kettle 12? By 1 cake Sugar Supper (Support?) 8 lbs, 6 plugs of tobacco. (From here notes very faded)

LAUREL A. BEECHEY Tillsonburg Post Columnist

New motion on bag tags coming to council in weeks

“I tend to get frustrated sometimes when we are not putting our best foot forward to govern. We have a responsibility to residents when we get elected to sit in that chair and tax them for tens of millions of dollars. We need to come (to meetings) prepared having done our homework, debate in good faith and make a decision.”

The report stated the hike was needed to combat program cost increases as a result of growth, inflationary pressures and upcoming changes to curbside waste collection services. Since 2021, annual program expenses have outpaced bag tag revenues and without an increase in bag tag fees, reserve funds will be nearly depleted by the end of 2025. The report also warned that if the new fee was not approved, future program deficits would be funded from property taxes.

Along with Ryan, South-West Oxford

Mayor and Councillor David Mayberry was one the biggest supporters of the 50 per cent increase. He explained the actual cost of the waste collection program has been rising, but the bag fee has not.

“The reality is you are going to pay the cost whether you want to or not. Whether it be by bag tag or taxes, I would rather have it right out front where I can see it. Every time I put a tag on a bag, I will say to myself, is there anything here that doesn’t need to be, or can I make it last for another week?”

Last week’s motion was to increase the bag tag fee on May 1 of this year, something that drew the ire of some councillors since the 2025 budget has already been approved. Mayberry isn’t giving up on the proposal and has tabled a motion for the March 12 meeting of council to raise the cost of a bag of garbage to three dollars as of January 1, 2026.

Mayberry said the ultimate goal is to divert as much as possible from the landfill, lengthening the life of the Salford location.

After the first motion failed, Tillsonburg Mayor and County Councillor Deb Gilvesy put forward a second motion for a report with other options such as a hybrid solution, which would explore one free back to ratepayers per collection cycle, with additional bags requiring a $2 to $3 tag.

Her motion was the second to be defeated in a 5-5 vote.

Admittedly not a fan of bag tags, Gilvesy told the Post bag tags should be part of a review of the entire system, which is what her motion was suggesting.

Debate on the failed motions was heated at times and one of those opposed was Coun. Deb Tait. She voted against the 2025 budget which saw an increase of 6.6

percent and was offended at the timing of the proposal.

“I find this offensive, the comments being made about this to the taxpayer. This is not appropriate. They are not aware. To implement it in May is unacceptable. The taxpayer should have some type of warning, especially with the high taxes we have implemented on them.”

Tait supported the motion to have staff bring back a new report with more information including the possibility of reducing the 45 per cent administrative cost to run the bag tag program.

“There are so many unknowns. The reason for the report was to find out more information to see if there were savings.”

Coun. Phil Schaefer also voted against the one dollar fee increase but added he supported the motion for a report with more information. His main concern is the life of the landfill.

Council questions implementation of industrial development charges

JEFF HELSDON Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Tillsonburg council backed a resolution from its economic development committee to ask Oxford County council to reconsider the implementation of development charges on industrial land.

The resolution from the Economic Development Advisory Committee asked for council’s support to address Oxford County council about the impact of development charges on industrial development in the wake of a softening industrial market, the town’s supply of industrial land for sale and the possible impact of U.S. tariffs. It also noted the development charges could exacerbate the challenge of attracting industrial development against municipalities that don’t have charges.

Oxford County did not charge development charges in the past, but a decision was made to add the charges this year to help alleviate the impact of a 12.6 per cent tax increase the initial budget would have brought.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres questioned the process of the committee raising these concerns, asking if council should be communicating to county council, or if the committee could.

“As much as I appreciate the work these committees do, including the economic development

committee, it’s the process,” he said.

Mayor Deb Gilvesy said the committee spoke to county council prior to her time as mayor, but suggested the alternative was to have the economic development officer to make a presentation.

Beres agreed the solution would be to approve the resolution and suggest a presentation be made by the economic development officer.

“It feels a little bit off they would be going to other councils,” said Coun. Kelly Spencer. “I think it needs to come from council as Deputy Mayor Beres was saying.”

Ross Graham, one of the owners at Legend Rubber, spoke at Oxford County council about the potential issues with industrial development charges.

“The county should be careful in removing the exemption on development charges with the present situation (potential tariffs) and the federal government not addressing it,” he said in an interview Monday.

Legend Rubber currently has a plant on Highway 3 in the Municipality of Bayham, but has plans to build a second facility in Tillsonburg’s industrial park. If development charges were in play, it would have cost Legend Rubber another $315,000 to build its plant and Graham said the

company would have looked elsewhere.

“It all depends where it goes with these tariffs,” Graham said. “Some states in the U.S. are doing a lot to attract development.”

With many local companies shipping to the U.S., when there are no development charges, a possible exemption on the tariffs while a plant is being built and promises of green cards for workers, it looks attractive for industry to relocate, or build another plant.

As it stands, plans are far enough along for the

new Legend plant, development charges won’t apply and its plant in Tillsonburg will go ahead. Representatives of other industries also spoke at the county meeting.

Tillsonburg council passed a motion to receive the report for information, support the resolution from the committee and direct the economic development officer to submit a delegation request to county council to speak about the impact of development charges on industrial development in the town.

SWEET BINGO

Three year old

New museum exhibit features new angle on signs, signs...

a variety of items with signatures that will appeal to people of different interests.

If the latest Annandale National Historic Site exhibit had a theme song, it would be Signs by Canadian rock group The 5 Man Electrical Band.

connected to town founder George Tillson. One is a deed of bargain and sale for the land where the town now sits, dating back to 1834. Astute readers will quickly pick up on the fact that Tillson first settled on the banks overlooking Otter Creek in 1825.

“We don’t know why it’s dated 10 years later,” Gibson said. “Some people think that’s when he paid it off.”

Titled What’s Your Sign: Part 2, the exhibit will feature important documents from the town’s archives with signatures integral to the town’s history. This includes some fascinating pieces of history, from the original deed for the land Tillsonburg sits on to a basketball signed by the 1952 Livvies basketball team that represented Canada in the Olympics to signed quilts.

Jen Gibson, collections and exhibitions specialist, explained Part 1 of the exhibit, held two years ago, featured signs, whereas this one is signatures.

“This is part two, but a completely different twist on names and signs,” she said. “The name is the same, but the theme is different.

The signatures and autographs in the exhibit are diverse and cover a broad spectrum of interests, dating from 1802 to 2015.

“It’s basically a chance to get our archival exhibits out and shown,” Gibson said. “With a lot of the exhibits, we don’t get a chance to get the archival holdings out.

The most intriguing documents are likely those

Many local residents may want to attend the exhibit to see if their signatures or their ancestors' signatures are on some of the artifacts. In this category is a Tillsonburg 125 flag that multiple residents signed as a town fundraiser, a Canada 125 flag signed by dozens of residents, and an autographed quilt from Rolph Street Public School’s 75th anniversary in 1987.

And then a few famed people have their signature in the exhibit. These include Liona Boyd, trumpetist and Tillsonburg native son Johnny Cowell, Olympic skater Barbara Ann Scott, hockey broadcaster Ron McLean, and others. In the political section are letters from former Prime Minister John Diefenbaker and Premier William Davis, as well as local documents including former Tillsonburg mayor and Oxford County reeve J.C. Eichenberg and former councillor Sam Lamb.

The exhibit opened March 3 and will run until May 11.

JEFF HELSDON Editor

Jen Gibson, collection and exhibitions specialist with Annandale National Historic Site, displays the deed to George Tillson for the land where Tillsonburg now sits as part of the exhibit What’s Your Sign: Part 2. The exhibit features

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Kelsey Pickersgill, pictured with mom Laura, came to her first chocolate bar bingo dressed for success. The Optimist Club event was held at the Tillsonburg Legion on Febr. 23, offering kids a chance to win a giant chocolate bar or amazing door prizes. All players received a goodie bag as they departed.

(ROBIN KRAFFT PHOTO)

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

FLAG RAISING

The Black History Month flag was raised during a ceremony last month at the South Broadway Park to celebrate February being Black History Month. Left to right are: Heather Rennalls of the Black History Month coordinating committee; Tillsonburg CAO Kyle Pratt; Deputy Mayor Dave Beres; Lauren Johnson, owner of COOL Convenience; Mayor Deb Gilvesy; Councillor Kelly Spencer and Mark Renaud, executive director of the Tillsonburg BIA.

Black History Heritage Event acknowledges history while celebrating community and faith

Tillsonburg's third Black History Heritage Event took place on Feb. 23 at the Tillsonburg Community Centre.

The non-profit event featured historical displays, music, a children's choir performance, and an exhibition of Black business in Oxford county. Attendees enjoyed Afro-Caribbean food as well as spoken word poetry and inspirational speakers.

The event was organized by Olive and Courtney Williams. Olive had been actively involved in organizing Black History Month celebrations in their former city of Brampton. After moving to Tillsonburg, the couple learned about historical sites here in Oxford County, including Underground Railroad “stations”, where escaping people were fed and sheltered. Olive wanted to bring that history back to life.

The Oxford County Archives describe how "freed members of the formerly enslaved Black community in

America were already living in Norwich Township by the mid-1800s. Many people arrived in Oxford County through the help of supporters of the Underground Railroad ... created in the late 1790s by abolitionists, people who wanted to end the practice of slavery and provide a way for fleeing slaves to find safety." Otterville and Ingersoll were historically important areas of Black settlement in the county.

Tysha Rieger, Archival Technician for the Oxford County Archives, brought an impressive display of information to Sunday's event, acknowledging that there is an ongoing effort to recover and discover more of this important history.

"People here embraced our ancestors, the runaway slaves, and helped resettle them," Olive said, adding, "With this event we want to remember our past, and aspire for a better tomorrow, strengthened by faith."

Supported by members of the Tillsonburg Alliance Church, faith is an important element of the event.

Olive explained the connection: "We want to remind people that we overcame not only because we fought but because of the sovereign power of prayer. We overcame, we were strengthened by faith."

"I love bringing the community together and allowing people to get to know one another, to celebrate our history and our heritage." Olive said.

She mentioned the welcoming demeanor of Tillsonburg residents when the couple moved here four years ago.

"This is a different place," she said, "I experience love from the community and I'm reciprocating it. Smiles, greetings, it's all about our attitude; when you bring that out into the community, people will want to connect with you."

Pastor Tobi Adelusi gave a moving talk at the event, speaking eloquently about its purpose.

"This is a time to gather momentum from where we were to where we need to be. We must make the best of the sacrifice of our heroes. We must not forget the reasons why we celebrate. Our history is rich with not only struggle, but with triumph."

ROBIN KRAFFT Post Contributor

Olive and Courtney Williams pose beside the Black History Month banner and historical displays.

(ROBIN KRAFFT PHOTO)

Zehrs and Sobeys supermarkets both donated generously, providing fruit and vegetable trays, drinks, fried chicken, potato wedges, plates, cutlery and napkins. Olive and friends prepared fried dumplings and plantains, curry chicken, samosas and salads.

(ROBIN KRAFFT PHOTO)

Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association celebrates 40 years

From humble beginnings on a grass airstrip outside Woodstock to more than 400 members and its own hangars in Tillsonburg, the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association has come a long way.

The group was formed on Feb. 12, 1985. Former Royal Canadian Air Force pilot Bob Hewitt, pilot Norm Beckham, pilot Len Fallowfield, and some friends established a grass airfield in Woodstock that year. Before year’s end, they received charitable status.

While the original three aircraft were privately owned, the association acquired its first aircraft in April 1986. A second aircraft – a Yale –

was added the following year, and a hangar was purchased in Tillsonburg to use for restoration work. Flying operations moved to Tillsonburg a short time later.

The Harvard was the primary aircraft used by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan during the Second World War. This program trained hundreds of aviators from Canada, England, and other Commonwealth countries. Numerous bases were scattered across Southwestern Ontario.

The association’s mission is to acquire, preserve, restore, maintain, display, and demonstrate the Harvard and other aircraft used by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.

Over the past four decades,

the group has added more Harvards to its fleet. Today, the association has nine aircraft, of which eight could be capable of flying.

Diana Spremo, PR Manager, for the association, said if the group had unlimited funds, all but one of the planes could be in air. She explained the planes are expensive to maintain, and each season there are three or four in flying condition.

“This summer we have one plane we hope to return to the skies, which has not flown in 40 years,” she said. “It’s going to be a very exciting day when it takes off for the first time.”

Outside of its fly days, the group’s pilots fly the planes at Remembrance Day ceremonies, special events, and air

shows. Some exciting events have occurred over the years, including having a CF-18 fly beside a Harvard squadron in North Bay.

The group has grown to more than 400 members, who span the country and even to Britain. Some are pilots, while others just have an interest in planes or support the association’s mission. Spremo is in the latter category, having worked in the air show industry.

“I saw Harvards perform in an air show and I loved what they stood for, preserving history and honouring veterans,” the Oakville resident said.

As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, the group will be in the Tillsonburg Town Centre this weekend with an information display

about its history, the anniversary and fly days.

Spremo said there is excitement about the anniversary.

“It’s more than just passion that keeps it alive, it’s blood sweat and tears,” she said.

“To keep an organization like this alive for 40 years is quite a feat everyone is very proud of.”

The 40th anniversary open house and fly day is scheduled for July 5. Although fly days are held once per month from May to October, July 5 will feature more displays, entertainment, cake, and balloons.

September will be the annual Wings and Wheels, which has become the group’s largest fundraiser of the year. It attracts more than 500 cars and a large crowd.

The group is hoping to raise awareness of its activities during the anniversary year, and get more donations and volunteers.

According to Transport Canada law, those who want to take part in one of the fly days must become members. The minimum $240 price for flying includes a membership.

“Sometimes people let their membership lapse after a year, but we hope they will continue to support us by renewing their annual dues because this funding is critical to keeping the operations of the Harvard Association going,” Spremo said.

More information on the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association can be found on its web site at www.harvards. com

A HISTORICAL FAMILY DAY

Annandale National Historic Site had a variety of old-fashioned games, crafts and hot chocolates on Family Day. Alex, left, and sister Adeline Kamenar work on decorating mugs as part of one of the crafts.

JEFF HELSDON Editor

The annual Wheels and Wings event is the largest fundraiser for the Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association. The annual September event draws more than 400 cars and hundreds of spectators.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

A aerial view of Harvards flying in formation over Southwestern Ontario. The association is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2005.

(SEAN VOSCAMP PHOTO)

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser deemed a success

JEFF HELSDON Editor

The Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser didn’t quite meet its goal, but still saw a huge increase from last year.

Held Feb. 22, the event involves teams and individuals finding sponsors for the walk to raise money for Tillsonburg Lighthouse. Proceeds from the event will fund Tillsonburg Light House, a transitional house in Tillsonburg. Up to seven people can stay at Light House while putting their lives back together. The program supported 22 people last year, who were able to get the support they needed, and move forward with their lives.

United Way of Oxford executive director Kelly Gilson called the event a suc-

cess, noting there were 430 donors, 25 teams and more than $49,000, or 81 per cent of the goal of $60,000 raised. This translated into an increase in the number of sponsors, teams, walkers and donors.

“It really shows the people who participated last year felt connect and they’re back in spades this year,” she said.

Last year, which was the initial year, brought in $33,000. At that point, the United Way had already purchased the house, but it had not opened yet. Operational costs for it are $160,000 per year to cover utilities, insurance, food and staff.

“That made a big difference to meet the needs of the tenants,” she said.

Interviewed after the official opening, Gilson built on remarks by Mayor Deb Gilvesy that a shelter is important for one

night, but transitional housing is important to make a long-term difference.

“It is what helps lift people back on their feet to move forward to a better future,” Gilson said.

The night was also a win for local Kinettes Club members. Their team, the Kin Krusaders, was the top fundraising team locally but also won a challenge amongst other Kinette teams, raising $11,731.

Participants filled the Tillsonburg Community Centre’s Lion’s Auditorium before walking, and after for supper.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Tillsonburg District Chamber of Commerce and the Tillsonburg Post co-hosted a meet-the-candidates event in The Spot at the Tillsonburg Town Centre on Feb. 24. The

The Systemair team paused for a team photo before hitting the streets.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Measles exposure at local bank

Southwestern Public Health is advising the public of additional measles exposures.

The latest exposures were:

RBC Royal Bank– 121 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg

• February 18, 19 and 20, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tillsonburg Medical Centre - 200 Broadway Street, Tillsonburg

• February 25, 2025, 1:30 p.m. to 4:12 p.m.

Woodstock General Hospital (Emergency Department)

• Sunday, Feb. 16 from 8 p.m. to 10:08 p.m.

• Monday, Feb. 17 from 10:38 p.m. to 1:47 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18

• Friday, February 21 from 10:43am to 1:26pm

• February 23, 2025, 8:20 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

• February 27, 2025, 6:14 a.m. to 8:23 a.m. St. Thomas-Elgin General Hospital (Emergency Department)

• Monday, Feb. 17 from 9:20 p.m. to 11:47p.m.

• Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 12:55 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.

East Elgin Community Complex (arena)531 Talbot Street W, Aylmer

• February 15, 2025, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Alexandra Hospital Emergency Department - 29 Noxon St, Ingersoll

• February 21, 2025, 8:53 p.m. to 11:05 p.m.

If you were present at these locations during these timeframes, were born in 1970 or later, and are not up-to-date with your vaccinations, please call public health at 1-800922-0096 ext. 1232. This includes those who were only present briefly as measles is highly

contagious and can linger in the air for up to two hours.

The community is reminded to please call ahead when visiting all health care settings if you have been exposed to or have symptoms of measles.

Measles vaccine availability increased

Residents in the Southwestern Public Health region have a new option to protect their infants during the current measles outbreak. Starting on March 3, the health unit is booking appointments for first-dose measles vaccines dedicated to infants aged 6 to 11 months throughout the month of March. This early dose is recommended during a measles outbreak to protect babies before they become eligible for their routine measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccination at one year old.

“A single dose of measles vaccine offers 85 to 95 per cent protection against the illness for infants. With the outbreak we are experiencing, this clinic offers local parents an option to protect their child quickly,” said Jaime Fletcher, Manager of Vaccine Preventable Diseases for Southwestern Public Health.

Parents and guardians can book online at www.swpublichealth.ca/booking throughout the month of March. The clinic is offered at the health unit’s 1230 Talbot Street site in St. Thomas. Appointments are required and are only available for infants aged 6 to 11 months old who reside in Oxford County, Elgin County, and the City of St. Thomas. Booked appointments for anyone who is not in the age range or does not live in the region will be cancelled.

Oxford OPP officers assaulted during arrest

The Oxford Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have arrested and charged an individual with multiple offences after being dispatched to a disturbance at an address in the Township of Norwich.

On Feb. 19, at approximately 5:45 a.m., members of the OPP Oxford detachment were dispatched to a disturbance in the Township of Norwich. Police attended and learned that an assault had taken place. Police located the suspect and arrested them for multiple offences.

While being arrested, the accused assaulted multiple OPP officers. The officers did not sustain injuries. There were no other injuries reported.

A 19-year-old, from the Township of Norwich, has been charged with:

• Assault With a Weapon (Two Counts)

• Assault a Peace Officer (Two Counts)

• Resist a Peace Officer

• Uttering Threats - Cause Death or Bodily Harm

• Take Motor Vehicle Without Consent

• Failure to Comply with Release Order

The accused was held for a bail hearing and has been remanded into custody.

If you have any information that can assist with the investigation, please contact Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or if you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Fatal collision in

Norwich Township

A collision in Oxford County has resulted in the death of one individual.

On Wednesday, Feb. 19, at approximately 5 a.m., members of the Oxford detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) along with Oxford County Fire Services and Oxford County Paramedic Services were called to the intersection of Base Line and Norwich Road in Norwich Township for the report of a two-vehicle collision.

A transport truck and a passenger vehicle collided.

The lone occupant of the passenger ve -

hicle, a 22 years-of-age resident of Simcoe was taken to hospital where they were pronounced deceased.

The lone occupant of the transport truck was uninjured.

Base Line remains closed at Thirteenth Concession Road and Caley Road. Norwich Road remains closed at West Quarter TownLine Road and Hanmer Line.

The investigation is ongoing. West Region Traffic Incident Management and Enforcement Unit (TIME) Team is on scene assisting Oxford OPP with the investigation.

OPP Ontario snowmobile safety week wrap-up

This winter's snowmobiling conditions are just about perfect in some parts of Ontario, but some of the riding behaviours seen on area trails is not.

Members of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) West Region patrolled the trails during Ontario Snowmobile Safety Week (February 10, 2025 - February 17, 2025).

Officers laid 49 charges during the campaign, which included:

• Two impaired riding charges.

• Two muffler charges.

• 38 documentation charges (permit, licence, registration, insurance).

The week-long campaign targeted unsafe riding behaviours that lead to death,

injury and property damage both on and off Ontario snowmobiling trails. Excessive speed, riding too fast for the conditions and alcohol impairment continue to be the leading contributing factors in fatal snowmobile collision in Ontario.

Ontario snowmobilers have access to an expansive network of trails. Through the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) Interactive Trail Guide (ITG), riders can obtain real-time trail status information to help them choose a safe, enjoyable trail for their next riding adventure.

Snowmobilers are reminded that it's against the law to access and ride on OFSC trails that are unavailable.

Vehicle theft in SWOX

Oxford OPP is investigating the theft of vehicle from the Township of South-West Oxford.

On March 2, at approximately 9:45 a.m., members of the Oxford County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Detachment were dispatched to a residence on Hawkins Road in the Township of SouthWest Oxford for a report of a stolen vehicle.

It was determined an unknown indi-

vidual(s) entered the property during the overnight hours and proceeded to steal a white, 2011 Ford F150 pickup truck.

The investigation is continuing.

If you have any information that may be helpful, please call the Oxford OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.

Local family builds an igloo

JEFF HELSDON Editor

It’s not often you see an igloo in Tillsonburg.

And the thought that it would take someone from Brazil to be the first to perform this building feat is even more surprising than seeing an igloo on the front lawn of a home.

Lucas and Maria Santos moved to Tillsonburg in 2024, with their daughter Alice.

“We thought this was a common thing here,” he said. “I thought more people would do this kind of stuff.”

Lucas works in software development and initially started working for a Canadian company in Brazil. The family then moved to Kitchener in 2022 before coming to Tillsonburg. A friend in Kitchener told him a neighbour there built an igloo. There was some snow the first year the family was in Canada – the first they had

seen – but they were in an apartment.

This year was the first year they had to deal firsthand with snow. Santos took to YouTube to learn how to build an igloo.

After purchasing several aluminum foil pans from Costco, he started by filling them with water and leaving them outside to freeze. It took three times doing this to have the 180 blocks to start construction. Snow and water are mixed together to take on a flush-like form and then put between the blocks like mortar. Food colouring was put in some of the blocks to add a little colour to the structure.

Alice helped in short amounts, but the couple did most of the work after she went to bed. It took almost three weeks to build it.

“The plan was to have a bigger igloo but we decided smaller first,” Lucas said. “Maybe next year.”

Before the igloo melts, the family plans a movie night in the igloo.

DOWNHILL FUN

Devin Vandepoele and his son Louie were amongst the dozens of people who took advantage of the hill at North Broadway Baptist Church to enjoy sledding, tobogganing or going down the hill on a variety of devices. Although the weather on the weekend was stormy, it didn’t keep people inside.

100 YEARS OF CARING FOR YOU!

Anyone who finds themselves at Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital (TDMH), may see familiar volunteer faces operating the Coffee Corner and Gift Shop, currently located in the main corridor of the hospital.

Originally located in the emergency eepartment, the Coffee Corner was spearheaded by volunteers when they noticed that patients and visitors to the hospital needed the service. The Coffee Corner officially opened in July 1998 and was set up in collaboration with The Madison County Food & Beverage Co. Entirely run by volunteers, the shop ran four shifts from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the week.

After their first six successful years, the Coffee Corner relocated, and was joined by the gift shop, in their current location.

The Gift Shop began as a portable counter selling small gift items before moving into the location of the current TDMH Foundation office. Volunteer gift shop “buyers” were able to expand the inventory in this larger, more stable, space beginning to offer clothing and larger gift items including bouquets created in a coffee cup.

These days, it’s a symbiotic relationship between the Coffee Corner and the Gift Shop. You can stop by for a coffee and pick up a unique gift for a family

member, friend or even just something for yourself. The shops are run separately from each other and managed by the TDMH Volunteer Association, but their donations are combined with an annual donation to the hospital. Since 1953, it is estimated that the volunteer association has raised $2.5 million dollars for TDMH towards the purchase of equipment.

Most members of the TDMH Volunteer Association happily assist in either the Coffee Shop or the Gift Shop in their volunteer work. Current operating hours are Monday to Friday 8:a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the volunteers look forward to providing expanded hours as their numbers continue to grow.

To find out more about the TDMH Volunteer Association or to become a volunteer check out: https://www.tillsonburghospital.on.ca/volunteer

TDMH and the TDMH Volunteer Association are excited to celebrate all our successes within the community and look forward to another 100 years of caring for you! Grab a coffee and a muffin at the Coffee Corner and don’t forget to check out the Gift Shop for a unique gift item!

Remember, you can share your memories of the last 100 years – TDMH100years@tdmh.on.ca #TDMH100years #TDMHvolunteers100years

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Lucas and Maria Santos, and daughter Alice stand in front of the igloo they built on the front lawn of their Joseph Street home. The project took about three weeks to complete.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

‘Banking’ on a unique fishing experience off the coast of Trinidad

The stingray came up off the bottom as dead weight.

That was, until it saw the boat.

“Let it run!” interjected captain Richie Rampersad, as if there was any choice. Hand-bombing as we were, there was no rod tip to keep up, no drag to hum as line stripped. Instead, I controlled the run of thick monofilament as best I could, understanding better how much power a muscular fish shaped like a streamlined sail could generate, as well as why my more experienced shipmates were wearing finger protection.

We were ‘banking’ or bottom fishing in 70 feet of Gulf of Paria, off the northwest coast of Trinidad. It was a trip years in the making, originating via an excursion out of Cozumel, Mexico. The fishing was good there, said our boat captain, but the real action was off the coast of Venezuela, which

a quick check of the map revealed was adjacent to Trinidad.

“Does anyone in your family fish?” I asked our ‘Trini’ son-in-law Arnold. This past summer, his father Reynold declared we had talked long enough, and invited me along for a 10 -day trip to the island nation - family fishing included. A world-class fishery lies off Trinidad’s north coast, anglers pursuing tuna, blue marlin, sailfish, tarpon, wahoo, barracuda, grouper and American snapper among other species. This day, we were aboard Rampersad’s 30-foot ‘Sailing On’ off of Chaguaramas for a family excursion organized by Arnold’s cousin Rendell. We lay in waters protected from a wind warning along the northern coast by Chacachacre, Hueyvos, Monos and Gaspar Grande Islands.

Rampersad has been accompanying his father Michael fishing since he was a baby. During the week, the two operate a family-owned body shop, but ‘Saturdays are for fishing’ with groups including nephew Brandon and Richie’s daughter Celine.

Rampersad offers a monthly charter to help keep his boat in the water, connecting with Rendell through Richie's brother-in-law.

“Everyone enjoys it,” said Rampersad, who had been fishing the entire night before taking us out. He trolls for kingfish and other larger species, but prefers banking’s mixed bag.

“I like to go and pull my fish with my hands.”

We planned on leaving San Fernando at 5 a.m., but a delay, the logistics of several parties arriving from various points of the compass and a quick stop for doubles and aloo pie meant we were pulling out of La Soufriere Marina a little later than hoped - no worries, we were on ‘Trini time.’ Three generations of Sooknanans were aboard including patriarchs Reynold, enjoying his first fishing trip, Manchoon, whose foundational passion for the sport has spread, and Junior, a long-time scout leader rising at 3 a.m. to prepare pilau. Five cousins, three of their children and a pasty Canadian who had been made to feel like family from the moment he landed, rounded the crew.

Richie’s twin 250-horse outboards hastened the scenic five-mile trip to the fishing grounds, passing ocean-going vessels in beautiful sunshine en route, Trinidad’s capital Port of Spain visible to the south. Checking his GPS, Rampersad anchored in depths from 40 to 80 feet, moving when action slowed.

Richie set to work filleting and slicing herring to bait a pair of single, barbed hooks - tipping the top one with shrimp - above a lead sinker, ‘drop-shotted’ to the bottom. In theory, one let the lead weight sit and set the hook as biting fish pulled away. In practice, I noticed Richie giving his line an occasional jig, cousins Nick and Rendell illustrating a deft touch by reading a tentative bite 70 feet below and setting hooks, skills observed if not replicated.

The gulf proved a proverbial box of chocolates, producing ‘white salmon’ (big-scale salmon), bluefish (anchoo),

shark,‘white fish’ (a generic term covering a variety of species), lane snapper and ‘red fish’ or red snapper, that along with grouper, is Richie’s favourite.

“All the snappers, I like all the snappers.”

We also pulled in small, silvery fish and a prehistoric-looking thing from underneath a derelict wreck, a collection of sea snakes and a variety of catfish small and large. A larger catfish species is good eating when three toxic bone-like barbs are removed, a dangerous and delicate operation.

Rampersad uses his ‘most important tool’, a metal de-hooker to safely return undesirables. Fear one might fly 4,000 kilometres and get skunked was relieved with a willing salmon, a variety of other fish following, catfish and sea snakes included. Setting the hook on a red snapper capped a quest also featuring battles with a trio of sting rays.

“They’re very strong,” said Richie, a definite understatement.

He opened the throttle as we headed back to the marina at the end of a long, productive and enjoyable day. We had experienced Trinidad’s two seasons, ‘dry and rainy’, enjoying a swim and feasting on delicious homemade pilau while anchored along Scotland Bay’s beautiful shoreline.

A couple of coolers of mixed catch were aboard, along with memories of a uniquely enjoyable outing. If you ever get the chance to hook up with the tropical warmth of a Trini fishing trip - and the people you’ll get to share it with - don’t hesitate to say yes to what will be a wonderful experience.

You can bank on it.

JEFF TRIBE Tillsonburg Post Columnist

Rendell Sooknanan shows off a ‘red fish’, the preferred ‘banking’ catch.

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

A result the Tillsonburg Gemini boys’ hockey team did want may have been the result of the Lord Dorchester Beavers wanting it more.

“Bottom line, I thought they just wanted it more than us, played harder and deserved to win,” said coach Gemini Derek Partlo following a 6-3 Thames Valley Regional Athletics South East best-of-three semi-final series opener loss Monday, February 24 at Tillsonburg’s Memorial Arena.

“That was a good test,” Partlo continued. “To be honest, we haven’t been ready for it.”

The Gemini’s 9-0 regular season record included 41 goals for and 8 against, an indication of how easily Tillsonburg cruised through the campaign, essentially without major challenge.

“And today, it hurt us.”

The visitors took a 2-0 lead out of the first period on goals by Cam Muzylolosky and Ryan Lehouillier, going ahead 3-0 with 4:37 remaining in the second, on an unassisted marker from captain Ryan Johnson. Tillsonburg’s Keeghan Diering got the Gemini on the board off a strong rush down the right wing, cutting to the net and getting the puck past Dorchester goalie Caleb Cordell with 2:50 remaining in the frame. Jordan Parsons pulled Tillsonburg within a goal 28 seconds prior to the end of the period, on an assist to Rilan Swain.

Swain drove down the right wing, was initially denied, but stuck with the play.

Gaining possession of the puck behind the Beavers goal Swain centred to Parsons, who ‘did the McDavid’ on Cordell, with a scoring shot high to the glove side. Tillsonburg was unable to carry the momentum into the third however, Dorchester carrying the play after the between-periods flood. Emerson Monk restored a two-goal lead for the visitors 66 seconds in. The two-goal advantage stood until the Beavers capitalized on a turnover with 3:34 remaining.

What stood as Tillsonburg’s last glimmer of hope came with 2:24 to go, Swain driving the Dorchester net on an assist to Parsons, refusing to be denied on his own point-blank rebound. However, Lehouillier’s second of the game, into an empty net, rounded the 6-3 final.

“They wanted it more, came out hard and got a couple of quick ones,” Parsons summed up following the contest. The Gemini had battled back he said, but Dorchester kept on coming.

“And their goalie shut the door.”

Game two of the best-of-three semi-final was scheduled for the following day, in Dorchester, with game three, if necessary, back in Tillsonburg the day after.

“Just gotta come back stronger, go in their barn and bring it back home,” said Diering.

“We’ve got to bring our game next game,” agreed Parsons. “Show them what we’re made of.”

“Work harder, stay within yourself, don’t

try to do too much yourself and good things will happen,” said coach Partlo, adding the Gemini had been a little too much on the periphery during Monday’s loss. “This is playoff hockey, get in there and get some rebounds.”

Unfortunately for the Gemini, Dorchester was able to carry the momentum from its game one victory into the following day, upsetting Tillsonburg in two straight games, the second by a 10-5 margin. St.

Thomas Parkside defeated St. Thomas St. Joe’s 3-2 the same day, backing up an opening 3-1 win. Both Dorchester and Parkside advanced to WOSSAA A/AA playdowns in Woodstock.

“In a short series you have to play your best,” Partlo concluded, noting at times, the Beavers seemed to want it more, the Gemini not able to match their level of effort. “Basically, it was just the wrong time of year to not play our best hockey.”

JEFF TRIBE Post Correspondent

Gemini captain Rilan Swain sticks with his own rebound, eventually getting the puck past Dorchester goalie Caleb Cordell.

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

Gaitens’ hockey dream trending in the right direction with Komoka Kings

JEFF TRIBE

Post Correspondent

Nathan Gaitens’ hockey dream continues to trend in the right direction.

“The record might not say so, but it’s helped my development a lot,” said the 16-year-old Tillsonburg native of his first season of practice and games with the Komoka Kings of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL, formerly Junior B). “The amount of ice time I’ve been getting is a key point in all of this.”

Gaitens began his hockey career with Tillsonburg Minor Hockey Inc., heading to the AAA Brantford 99’ers as a minor atom. He played there for four years prior to joining the Hamilton Huskies and a combined Huskies/Bulldogs squad for his U15 and U16 seasons.

A 5’10”, 154-pounder with a right-handed shot, Gaitens would be described as an ‘offensive defenceman’ who can skate, has a quality shot and hockey sense which allows him to think quickly on his feet and move the puck well.

Drafted in the fourth round of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) draft by the Kitchener Rangers, he attended his first rookie camp with the team.

“They’re the best of the best of the best,” Gaitens said of the Rangers roster. “It was a lot faster pace, bigger, stronger guys.”

Gaitens didn’t enter camp with specific expectations, simply to go and perform at his best.

“I didn’t know what to expect.”

At the camp’s conclusion, Rangers staff told Gaitens to find a spot at the Junior B level where his game could develop.

“That was kind of their message,” said Gaitens, adding the latter was more important than the team’s record. “As long as I’m developing as a player.”

He considered a trio of options before choosing Komoka. “They promised a lot of ice time and a good development program,” said Gaitens.

Additionally, the team’s location meant he could continue to live in Tillsonburg and there would be more convenient travel to games in his western division. The Kings are a younger team, a lot of ’07’s and ’06’s (year of birth for the

players) said Gaitens, an ’08 himself.

“A great group of guys there,” he summed up. “Players, coaches and staff. They have high expectations, but that’s for the best.”

Appreciating the coaching as he does, Gaitens also however believes the drive to improve has to start from within.

“I’d say you’ve got to push yourself and I’ve tried do that throughout the year.”

Gaitens was nervous for the first few minutes of his first pre-season game, before finding familiarity in its flow.

“I’ve been playing hockey my whole life.”

The move from U16 to junior came with adjustments, beginning with three 20-minute periods compared to 15-1520, a significant step up.

“I really enjoyed that.”

It is admittedly ‘bigger, stronger and faster’, Gaitens breaking first season roughly down into thirds: the first ten games getting used to Junior B hockey, the second third settling in, and the last, raising his level of play into a well-rounded game, giving the coaching staff confidence to put him on the ice in late-game situations and as a member of the first power-play unit.

“A lot of the more important minutes, which is nice.” Gaitens scored his first goal in his first game, and has the puck as a momento.

“Walked the line and shot it top shelf.”

Through 41 games played, Gaitens recorded three goals (two power-play markers) and 13 assists for 16 points to go along with four penalty minutes. The Kings had a 5-37-2-0 won-lost-overtime loss-shootout loss record as of February 16th, officially eliminated from the post-season. However, Gaitens has developed along with a young team, staying positive while adjusting to and establishing himself at a higher level of hockey.

“I feel like this has helped me see kind of a future,” said Gaitens, whose next step would be to make the Rangers’ OHL roster. “You actually want to make the next level and keep improving.”

Rangers staff monitored his progress through regional scouts and during games closer to Kitchener in Elmira and Waterloo, reaching out to indicate his game had improved

since rookie camp.

In other words, so far, so good.

“Definitely,” said Gaitens, whose focus is to finish out this season strongly and have a productive summer in terms of strength and fitness conditioning with an eye towards the Rangers rookie, and hopefully main camps.

“I just have to get bigger and stronger if I want to make the next level,” he concluded.

A look back at the Tillsonburg Curling Club bonspiels

Continuing with my historical look at club I need to share some of our bonspiel history. Like the various leagues, the many bonspiels the club hosts are important to the revenue coming into the club. I can only go back to the ‘80s and the bonspiels in that time frame to the present, but many, bonspiels that have been running for a long time.

Each time members enter the club or play on the ice they are in view of a record of three major bonspiels including the Men’s Tobacco Belt Bonspiel from 1955-2015, the Community Service Bonspiel 1957-present and the Ladies Bronze Broom 19782020. The large Community Service Club Trophy sits on the shelf in the main entry of the club, and

the east wall of the ice holds the two boards representing the Tobacco Belt and Bronze Broom yearly winners represented by tobacco leaves for the men’s and the plaid tams for the Bronze Broom.

The Tobacco Belt began as a three-day 24-team spiel curling around the clock from Friday to Sunday – a feature was the Calcutta which saw teams ranked and sold as a side gamble in the spiel and at one time the event was listed on the Ontario Cash Curling Tour. As times changed, the spiel was reduced to two days and eventually to one day with just 16 teams ending in 2015.

The Ladies Bronze Broom was a two-day spiel happening in February, with 16 teams taking part. All curlers received a curling tam name tag, usually in a characteristic plaid and many ladies displayed them on a sash, scarf or vest when they returned year after year. The bonspiel always had a theme, and the ladies were very detailed with décor and food matching the theme like Chinese lanterns and serving Chinese food for a Chinese New Year theme or the year that had a tropical theme that saw real palm trees and a hot tub set up in the club! Unfortunately, this bonspiel has not been held since Covid but there is talk of reviving it.

What began in 1957 as the Service Club bonspiel sponsored by Judd and Co., is a unique community-oriented spiel which continues today in

the club sponsored by the same company, now known as Good Redden Klosler. The current prize structure of this bonspiel puts $3,000 into community charities and organizations and brings the Tillsonburg community together in a fun social event.

If you walk through the club, you can’t help but notice the large trophy case which contains trophies for current bonspiels and club leagues but also many trophies from our past years. Back in the ‘80s numerous bonspiels were offered in the club but over the years, and again because of changing lifestyles and membership, they are no longer available. There was a two-day mixed that ran on Friday-Saturday and featured home entertainment where curlers were treated to lunch at a local curlers’ home and there was a dance after the banquet. Around St. Patrick’s Day there was an annual host/guest bonspiel bringing guests from all over Southern Ontario to curl with us.

Off ice activities were quite memorable – I recall a green beer relay- right Peter Burns? - a “draw your skip” competition that yielded some questionable masterpieces. There was a grandmothers’ spiel, a Men’s Imperial, the Business Women’s where first prize was a silver salad bowl (I still have mine), a Teacher’s Spiel always between Christmas and New Year’s - sometimes intimidating as you might have to play against a

principal or board director responsible for hiring you- and a family bonspiel which actually brought many parents who had never curled onto the ice. There were different fun nights that also happened annually which included curling with other features- like Past-President’s Night- where the retiring presidents were honoured and roasted, the fish fry -where the Goldfish played the Sharks on the ice and then we ate fish for dinner, and the chicken night (the rubber chicken signed by the biggest losers was in the trophy case for years but has disappeared). We had sinner’s breakfasts on Sundays where along with curling we enjoyed Mimosas with breakfast. All of these were sponsored by local businesses and were certainly lots of fun for the participants as are our current club bonspiels.

This season the club has hosted six very successful bonspiels with wonderful local sponsors, along with a couple of Tier 55 events and senior interclubs. Members don’t realize how many events are organized in our club until you look at the calendar and try to find open ice or an open night. Members are making a point to travel to other clubs to play in bonspiels, which is important to get curlers to enter our events. A busy club is a successful club, let’s continue to build the history of the club!

Curling Rocks!

Tillsonburg Minor Hockey Inc. grad Nathan Gaitens moves the puck under pressure on the Komoka Kings blueline.

(JEFF TRIBE PHOTO)

NORA PETERS Tillsonburg Post Columnist ON THE BROOM

CLUB OXFORD HOCKEY

Playoffs start in Club Oxford hockey

JEFF GWYN Post Contributor

Feb. 16

Agrospray 6, Distinct 3

Agrospray is heating up at the right time. They have found scoring and have a resurgence of Travis Horvath leading the way. A solid game in both ends solidified the victory in this one. Distinct came out fast in this one, but Agrospray was a force tonight. Distinct needs to tidy up the defensive zone a little bit before playoffs start.

Kelsey VanYmeren had four points for Agrospray. Kyle Smith had two goals for Distinct.

ReMax 5, Fody's 4

ReMax found some secondary scoring in this one, which is the best way to compete with Fody's. A good effort to keep Fody's away from the net helped secure the win. Fody's had some pressure, but just couldn't make the comeback in this one. They are setting up good for a playoff run.

Dylan MacRiner had two goals for ReMax. Chris Sanders had two points for Fody's.

Royal LePage 5, Precision 1 Royal LePage is pushing for that top four seeding and finding some scoring now. Both the offence and defence played a textbook game and it kept the momentum fully on their side. Precison was maybe thrown off by the power outage delay. They couldn't get much going offensively in this one, just a few chances. Defensively, they had trouble container a hard digging Royal LePage team.

Ryan Simmons had three

points for Royal LePage. Christian Devlin had a goal for Precision.

Source 2, B-Line 2

Source looked to be heading for a victory in this one as they had some nice breakout plays and won the battles down low. B-Line swung the momentum back to their favour with a quick goal in mind the second and buttoned down defence as well.

David Lee had two points for Source. Tyler Bain had a goal for B-Line.

Glass 10, Airmount 1

Glass wanted this win. Having only lost to Airmount this year, they were out to show who they were. Every line was going and had chances in this one.

Airmount struggled to get things going as they were battling in their own zone most of the game. They knew this one would be a tough game.

Brendan Soares had four goals and an assist for Glass. Brent Beekman had a goal for Airmount.

Carquest 6, RND 4

Carquest battled hard in this one. Their top line dominated the night and were dangerous every shift. They buckled down late and held on for the huge victory in the standings. RND were in this one all night. They spread out their scoring and had some solid chances. They couldn't cash in on a late powerplay, but it was a hard-fought game.

Adam Matthews had six points for Carquest. Dalton Riley had three points for RND.

Feb. 19

Fody's 6, Agrospray 3

Fody's started a step behind, but found their

groove midway through the first. Scoring from different players helped keep Agrospray on their heels and it turned in to a solid win to clinch first place. Agrospray was fighting for third in A Division and looked good to start. They couldn't keep Fody's at bay and it changed things quickly. A solid effort that will come in handy meeting Fody's in the first round.

Mike Mudford had two goals for Fody's. Travis Horvath had two points for Agrospray.

ReMax 7, Distinct 0

ReMax just dominated this game. They led from the opening draw and never looked back. They seemed to be ramping things up and showing Distinct how they'll play in the first round. Distinct will have to regroup fast as these teams start the playoffs against each other on Sunday. Finding their scoring will be key come playoffs.

Jordan Kobayashi had four points for ReMax.

Carquest 7, Airmount 5

Carquest came out strong in this one as their top like keeps popping. They took their foot of the gas in the second as Airmount had the momentum, but held on late to secure the win. Airmount didn't look good to start, a late goal in the first changes the balance in this one. Getting shots from different areas gave them a run at the victory, but just fell short in the end.

Adam Matthews had five points for Carquest. Brent Beekman had three points for Airmount.

Feb. 23

Carquest 8, Glass 3

Carquest has been firing on all cylinders and continued tonight. Handing Glass their second loss of the year will be a big confidence boost heading into playoffs. Glass had a very short bench in this one. They ended up running out of gas, but shouldn't worry as the enter the post season.

Evan Prouse had five points for Carquest. Jeff Prouse had three points for Glass.

RND 3, Source 1

RND came out strong in this one. Fighting to get into the top four, they pulled out a strong game in both zones. They are finding ways to score and that will be a huge help in the post season. A tired Source team had trouble keeping up with RND in this one. They played a solid defensive game, but couldn't get much going offensively.

Wade Kirby had two goals for RND. Jamie Haines had a goal for Source.

Royal LePage 4, B-Line 2

Royal LePage had a " Win and You're In" game to finish in the top 4. They found some balanced scoring to get the win. They'll hope to build off that against powerhouse Glass in the playoffs. B-Line started a step behind, but they eventually matched Royal for the rest of the game. If they can focus their offense, they will be able to make a run in the playoffs.

Abe Friesen had two goals for Royal LePage. John Rachar had two assists for B-Line.

Precision 8, Airmount 3

Precision had to get a point to secure third in B Division. They came out

strong against a tired Airmount squad, but made sure to add some insurance just in case. A solid win to close out the regular season. Airmount had a few tired players and knew where they were finishing. They did get some good chances, but the rebounds didn't go their way in this one.

Cody Wilson had four points for Precision. Chad Homick had a goal for Airmount.

PLAYOFFS

Feb. 23

Fody's 4, Agrospray 2

Fody's seemed surprised by Agrospray's fast start, but rebounded quickly. They were able to pressure in close and kept Agro from getting second chances. Agrospray started strong, but couldn't hold off the Fody's offense. They played a decent game, but just couldn't get a bounce.

Shane Balcomb had three points for Fody's. Travis Horvath had two points for Agrospray.

Fody's leads series 1-0.

ReMax 3, Distinct 1

ReMax has found a balance on offense and defense. They know when to take advantage of their opportunities, but also how to buckle down. They broke through late to break the deadlock and held off a late push by Distinct. Distinct was able to keep ReMax from scoring a lot, their defence picked up their game for sure. Late pressure couldn't pull through in this one.

Brady Sutherland and Dylan MacRiner had two points each for ReMax. Spencer Meron had a goal for Distinct.

ReMax leads series 1-0.

Feb. 26

Carquest 5, Precision 2 Carquest played a tough game at both ends. They were able to carry their scoring over from the regular season and buckled down defensively in this one. Precision had a solid first period. They were able to match Carquest even with fewer chances. Their late pressure couldn't connect however. Evan Prouse had three points for Carquest. Jason Koteles had a goal for Precision.

Carquest leads 1-0.

Airmount 5, RND 4 OT Airmount was able to mount a big comeback to take Game 1. They turned it on midway through the second and controlled the late stages of the game. RND started off strong, but let Airmount throw them off their game. They held on to force overtime, but couldn't match the Airmount speed.

Josh Stubbs had two assists for Airmount. Cody Kraushaar had three points for RND. Airmount leads series 1-0.

Source 3, B-Line 2 Source was able to get some secondary scoring in this one, which made them dangerous. They held B-Line off while killing some penalties, but need to be careful giving up those chances. B-Line hung in tough with Source. They were able to match their speed and played well defensively. Connecting on their powerplay would have changed the game. It should be close the rest of the way.

Craig Robb had three points for Source. Stephan Coulombe had two points for B-Line.

Source leads series 1-0.

by Jake Grant

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Ladies’ curling league finishes second draw

The Thursday morning ladies league of the Tillsonburg Curling Club finished their 2nd draw of the season on Feb. 13. Throughout this draw, each member accumulated individual points based on games won, lost, tied and number of ends won.

Congratulations to the following ladies

who had the top four scores: Brenda Jones(69 points), Helen Cull (83 points), Laura Oliveira(Owner of Escapes Salon & Spa), Gail Harris(66 points) and Karen Robinson(69 points) Laura Oliveira from Escapes Salon & Spa, who graciously sponsors this draw, presented each of our winners with a gift card for Escapes. Names of the winners will be added to the Escapes Salon & Spa trophy.

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)

It was Dave Ireland’s team from Tillsonburg that emerged as overall winners of the East Elgin Concrete Bonspiel that was held recently at the Tillsonburg Curling Club. Team Ireland went undefeated coming out on top of the 16-team field with a 3-0 record and a total of 48.25 points. Holding the East Elgin Concrete Forming trophy are from left to right: John Lamont-lead; Wade Jones-second; Ken Patterson-vice and Dave Ireland-skip. The bonspiel which was held at the Tillsonburg Curling Club saw 64 curlers vying for the East Elgin Concrete Forming trophy descended on Tillsonburg from all over the province including a team from Detroit, Michigan.

The top point-getter of the East Elgin Concrete Forming bonspiel from the late draw was the team Wood from Simcoe. A previous overall winner, they went undefeated but were outcounted in total points with the overall winner coming out of the early draw. From left to right are Jay Lording-lead; Brian Vanhooren-second; Ian Summers-vice and Scott Wood-skip. The bonspiel which was held at the Tillsonburg Curling Club on February 22nd had 16 teams and 64 curlers vying for the East Elgin Concrete Forming trophy.

LINDA DURSTON Post Contributor

(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The Thursday morning ladies’ league of the Tillsonburg curling club finished their second draw. The following had the top four scores, left to right: Brenda Jones(69 points), Helen Cull (83 points), Laura Oliveira(Owner of Escapes Salon & Spa), Gail Harris(66 points) and Karen Robinson(69 points).

The McCarroll/Wright team from Tillsonburg Curling Club was the winner of the recreational division of last month’s Scotch Doubles Bonspiel. Thirty-six teams competed in three divisions in the bonspiel. The Paige/Elmes team from Royal Canadian Club won the competitive division and the Lindsay/Muirhead team from London Curling Club won the intermediate division.

Government regulations impact business for gun store owner

JEFF HELSDON

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Business owners face many challenges on a daily basis, ranging from keeping up on regulations, processing inventory, payroll and the impacts of interest rates. For Tillsonburg Gun Shop co-owner Marc David those challenges are multiplied by an ongoing barrage of rules and regulations impacting gun owners.

For the uninitiated, gun owners in Canada must take a gun handling and safety course, go through a government screening and police checks before being issued a license to purchase a firearm. Those wishing to hunt must pass another course. Gun store owners must go through the same process, plus more, to receive a dealer’s license.

David has seen huge changes in his business in the last five years. During COVID, there was an increase in the amount of people hunting, and hunters, as people had more time on their hands and many wanted the security of being able to harvest their own meat in a time of uncertainty. The same situation existed in the United States, resulting in ammunition shortages.

With supply and demand in mind, David noticed ammunition prices started to creep up.

Then, when tragedy struck after Gabriel Wortman killed 22 people in a shooting rampage in eastern Canada in 2020, the government banned multiple tactical-style centrefire semi-automatic rifles, although all the guns Wortman used were illegally obtained. The change was done through an Order in Council, at the Cabinet level, and didn’t come before the House of Commons.

This hit David and other gun store owners hard when they could no longer sell guns in their inventory. Many stores were sitting on tens of thousands of dollars in inventory, Tillsonburg Gun Shop included.

Additionally, many legitimate gun owners are concerned that decisions directly affecting them are driven by political expediency rather than demonstrated effectiveness.

“Gun owners don’t like to see criminal activity with firearms because it paints us all as bad,” he said.

A frustrated David points out government officials, including the prime minister, referring to these guns as having high-capacity magazines is totally inaccurate. Magazines on centrefire semi-automatic guns have to be limited to five shots, and this has been the case for decades. Some models may have larger magazines, but the law states the magazine must be permanently altered to limit magazine capacity to five shots.

Then, the situation became worse for gun shop owners after the passing of Bill C-21 in 2022, and the banning of handgun sales. With the exception of a few customers who are trappers and use handguns on the trap line, David said all handgun owners are target shooters. In fact, to own handguns, a second course is needed as well as another police check, and stringent regulations on their use and storage include handguns can only be fired at an authorized range.

Selling handguns represent 15 to 20 per cent of the business at Tillsonburg Gun Shop, and more than 20 per cent of the ammunition sold was for handguns. Although there was a two-month grace period to sell handguns after the ban was announced, David still has some in inventory.

Today, David points to a box of .243 deer hunting ammunition on the shelf retailing for $45 and says he remembers when it sold for $10 less prior to COVID. This particular type of ammunition wasn’t unique as most centrefire hunting ammunition now sells for north of $50 for a box of 20.

A variety of factors are to blame for the higher cost. Increased ammunition demand in the U.S. and ammunition use in overseas wars are putting pressure on ammunition supply. David explained there is a limit to the amount of powder and primers, two components in cartridges.

“The component part of it was the issue,” he said.

Banning handgun sales, and hence less handgun ammunition being sold, also has an impact on the price of hunting ammunition as there is an economy of scale in importation.

Today, the ammunition supply at Tillsonburg Gun Shop is better, albeit at a higher price. David gave the example of a flat of shotgun shells which a trap shooter would buy, and the $150 price tag that was $100 five years ago – and that particular product is made in Canada.

With trap shooting, rifle shooting and handgun shooting being sports that range from recreational shooters up to the Olympic level, David feels sports shooters and hunters have been unfairly targeted by the present government. Before Christmas another Order in Council banned more centrefire semiautomatics.

“I found out at about 10 at night through social media,” he said of the change. “That’s how secretive they were about it.”

This resulted in more guns David couldn’t sell. This hit cost several tens of thousands of dollars as well. Today, the value of inventory he can’t sell is into hundreds of thousands of dollars – all money he has to pay interest on. Although the government has promised to buy back his inventory, the process is just beginning.

Local resident Rick Igercich, president of the National Firearms Association and a Tillsonburg Gun Shop customer, questioned the millions the government already spent on gun buybacks.

“The Trudeau Liberals have already wasted more than $100 million in a campaign to take firearms away from law-abiding Canadians that has zero effect on public safety,” he said.

While modern sporting rifles aren’t every hunter or shooter’s choice, David says some prefer the modern look, the fun of shooting these guns and the accuracy. Now, gun owners as well as retailers are unable to use these guns and the public will have to pay to buy them back. Yet, David said criminals don’t buy their guns at gun stores, and the function of the banned guns is no different than others not banned. He said the guns are banned for looks.

Firearms and ammunition were included among the items which would have received a 25 per cent tariff if imported from the United States, where most guns and ammunition sold in Canada are manufactured. He noted that now when U.S. President Trump talks about fentanyl coming from Canada, the Canadian government talks about the illegal guns coming north over the border.

“Now when they have the threat of tariffs, they say maybe it’s the border responsible for illegal guns on the streets,” he said. “They knew that all along. Why wouldn’t you want a secure border?”

In the meantime, more possible restrictions for gun owners are still looming.

Tillsonburg Gun Shop owner Marc David points to the rivet that limits the magazine on this gun to only five shots. He explained while the government talks about high-capacity magazines, centrefire semi-automatic guns have been limited to five shots for decades.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

The Haines Group expands into awnings

The Haines Group has expanded into awnings in a big way.

Owner Rob Haines has been in the exterior renovation business since he was a teenager, and in it full-time since his mid-20s. The company moved into awnings when he started South Coast Awnings in 2015. HE purchased Oxford Awnings and Woodstock in 2022, then MacDonald Awning and Shade Products in Kitchener in 2023.

With the purchase of MacDonald Awning and Shade, Haines added a manufacturing component to his business as the company builds motorized awnings, motorized screens and common awnings.

“Our awning business had gotten so big it made sense to purchase a manufacturer,” he said. “It allowed us to cut down our lead times by prioritizing our products. It allowed us to get a

better price compared to our competitors.”

The company has 60 dealers from British Columbia to Newfoundland, and in the Caribbean. The awnings are manufactured with components from Spain and Germany.

The purchase of MacDonald Awning and Shade

also allowed a combination of staff knowledge. Haines believes he is the only manufacturer to offer consumer sales and installation to the end user. Customers are serviced from the GTA to London, and south to Lake Erie. It led to 2024 being the best year ever for selling shade products to consumers.

The MacDonald Awning and Shade products are the only one in Canada offering smart awnings, which can be controlled through a smart phone app. The awnings have LEDs in the arms and have an attachment where a speaker can be connected, which can also be controlled through the MacDonald Awning app.

The company will start

manufacturing patio covers for retail in Canada at its facility at 346 Simcoe St. in Tillsonburg. Raw aluminum will be brought in to make the hard-top patio covers.

Outside of the awnings, the Haines Group is still big in renovations. The company is a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor. The company also specializes in windows and doors, making it a one-stop exterior shop.

Renovations will take place in the at the Tillsonburg location this year to enlarge the showroom to show off the awning products.

The Simcoe location is at 312 Queensway West. Haines is looking for a retail location to open in Kitchener.

Exploring the history of boating in the Thousand Islands

PAUL KNOWLES

Tillsonburg Post Columnist

OH, THE PLACES WE’LL GO!

There are lots of popular attractions in the town of Gananoque – a fine summer theatre, good restaurants, museums and spectacular helicopter rides, among others – but there is no doubt the town they call “Gan” is really all about the water, specifically the waters of the St. Lawrence River.

Gananoque is near the headwaters of the St. Lawrence. I say near because it’s not entirely clear where Lake Ontario ends and the river begins – somewhere near Kingston and Wolfe Island, according to the experts.

Gan is about 30 kilometres from Kingston, so we know for sure the waters flowing beside Gananoque are the mighty St. Lawrence and Gan is one of the key launch points for exploration of the Thousand Islands, the world-famous aquatic region that stretches through about 130 kilometres of the St. Lawrence, spanning the international border between Canada and the United States.

So, it’s very appropriate that two of the premier attractions in Gananoque take place on the river: the Thousand Island boat cruises offered by City Cruises and the Thousand Islands Boat Museum.

For any fan of boating or history, the Bost Museum is not to be missed. Located right on the Gananoque waterfront, it’s a relatively new attraction. The museum opened only ten years ago, and its most intriguing feature – a Thousand Islands boat tour on a classic heritage motorboat – has only been happening for

three years.

The museum has four buildings including a boatbuilding shop, a children’s activity centre and exhibit galleries, but the highlight is the boat house, which opened in 2023, the result of a five-year, $5-million project. In the boat house are dozens of historic boats, all afloat at docks where visitors can get up close and personal with nautical heritage.

The Thousand Islands Boat Museum, a non-profit organization, has a full-time staff of two as well as a part-time facilities manager and summer students. But the facility is a labour of love for a lot of volunteers, from the 14 members of the board of directors to an army of hands-on fans of the project.

The current collection of antique boats includes three-dozen heritage craft, from the 52foot Windswept III (built by Muskoka-based Ditchburn in 1935) to the 12-foot Jelly Roll, a 1936 lapstrake sailing dinghy built by Hans Nicholsen in Kingston. Heritage boats are on display both at the docks and in an exhibition building.

There is a special emphasis on local boat-builders, of which there were quite a few in Gananoque. Currently on display are five boats built by Charlie Cliffe, whose company, Cliffe Craft, has built over 2,500 watercraft during his 67-year career.

The museum plans to feature other local boat-builders in future exhibitions – names like Andress, Malette, Gerrard and Gilbert. There are several unique boats on display, including one commissioned by a man named Gerrard who wanted a boat that could easily be driven by his wife. The boat on display, the Ribuki, is one of only seven built to those specifications.

But while the boats on display make for a fascinating visit, the highlight for many is undoubtedly the opportunity to get out on the water in a heritage boat. One option is a cruise on the Little Toot, the museum’s steel tugboat. This cruise carries passengers along the waterfront, passing under a historic swing bridge into the mouth of the Gananoque River (the

second river that touches the town), and also circling some nearby islands.

Our 30-minute cruise was aboard the Limit Up, a stunningly beautiful, classic, polished-mahogany motorboat. We boated around several privately held islands of the Thousand Islands, getting a first-hand look at the oldstyle luxury of these historic vacation retreats. Limit Up cruises carry only about six passengers.

By the way, are there really 1,000 islands in the Thousand Islands? Well, the folks at the museum will tell you there are actually more – 1,864 to be exact. That’s based on one of several differing definitions of an island – the Gan museum people use the criteria that an island has to have two living trees growing on it, and has to have at least one square foot of land that remains above water year-round. Therefore, they admit the actual total could change.

An internet search yields the same number from most sites, though the Canadian Encyclopedia’s total is significantly lower at 1,149. So,

even by the most conservative estimate, there are more than a thousand islands in the Thousand Islands.

But nobody is lobbying to change the name, and local attractions – like the Thousand Islands Boat Museum – are sticking with the underestimate.

The Thousand Islands Boat Museum is open from the long weekend in May through Thanksgiving. Admission – amazingly – is by donation, although there is, of course, a charge for the boat cruises; the Limit Up cruise costs $60 per person and Little Toot, a more leisurely 30-minute ride, costs $25 or $20 for children. Both provide a unique way to experience the unique community that is Gananoque and the Thousand Islands, the gateway to the St. Lawrence.

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.

Summer student Hannah Arsenault, whose great grandmother, Avis Bateman, owned the boat shown, dubbed the Ribuki.

(PHOTOS BY PAUL KNOWLES)

A small shop and exhibition space that is part of the four-building museum site. The Limit Up tour includes great views of classic Thousand Islands cottages.

Town approves Germany trip in light of possible tariffs

JEFF HELSDON Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

In light of a fluctuating relationship with the United States due to the tariffs imposed earlier this week, Tillsonburg council approved the development commissioner's request to attend a large industrial trade show in Germany.

In the draft budget last fall, Development Commissioner Cephas Panschow had attendance at the trade show in his budget for 2025. This initiative was removed from the approved budget as part of cost-cutting measures. However, in light of dynamic trade partnerships within Canada and the U.S., Panschow came back to council with a revised solution that would not impact the budget.

In his report to council, Panschow wrote that he attends one international event annually to promote opportunities in the town. With the removal of attendance at the Hannover Messe industrial trade show, he wouldn’t be attending any this year.

“This is problematic as, with an economic slowdown potentially coming, increased risk of tariffs, etc, now is not the time to cut all advertising/marketing,” he wrote. “Now is the time when we need to increase our efforts, particularly when we are targeting significant revenue generation over the next few years.”

Hannover Messe is the world’s largest industrial trade show, with more than 4,000 companies in the advanced manufacturing, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and energy sectors. Panschow’s attendance would be through the Southwestern Ontario Marketing Alliance, which books up to 10 meetings per day with show attendees.

Also, Canada is the partner country for the show this year, with more than 200 Canadian companies attending, including local companies such as J/E Bearing.

“This is quite timely with respect to investment attraction but also trade diversification,” Panschow told council at the Feb. 24 meeting. “There is a lot of talk about diversification

right now because of things happening in the world, in particular the U.S.”

He presented council with a costing plan that would offset his attendance cost with a per diem from SOMA paid to the town and a reduction in SOMA member fees to reflect the actual 2025 cost. The net cost would be zero.

Saying it looks like an “awesome event”, Coun. Kelly Spencer asked if the ultimate goal would be to sell the industrial lands the town has available to expand its industrial park.

Panschow answered that he attends Hannover Messe this year for two purposes: to talk to the companies with which meetings are set up and to the 200 Canadian companies attending the event.

“It’s a big bang for our buck with exploring companies from across Canada that may be looking to grow within Canada,” he explained.

Spencer then asked if there are ways to “ride off the tails of the St. Thomas battery plant.”

Panschow said SOMA is working together on that, and is looking at possibilities through what he called the electric vehicle triangle.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres inquired if there were going to be MPPs at the event. Panschow said the lead on the event is federal through Invest Canada.

Mayor Deb Gilvesy asked if Panschow’s attendance at the event last year resulted in any land sales or leads. Panschow said that while there have been no land sales yet, he is continuing to work with the leads generated.

Coun. Chris Parker noted it was timely for Panschow to attend Hannover Messe.

“With the shift in climate right now and potential for tariffs, diversification is key. Any lead is a positive lead and moving forward and hopefully it brings some more investment,” he added.

The final motion passed authorized Panschow to attend Hannover Messe due to a shift to focusing on Europe for foreign investment at a zero-budget impact.

Inter-community transit to cease at end of March

JEFF HELSDON Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Inter-community transit between Tillsonburg and other centres in the area will cease after the end of March.

At its Feb. 24 meeting, town council approved going ahead with a plan to inform the public of the service wrapping up as of April 1. Operated through provincial funding, Tillsonburg was the community tasked with administering the system that provides transit to connect to Port Burwell, Langton, Delhi, Ingersoll, Woodstock, Norwich and London. This does not impact transit within Tillsonburg. The service is being discontinued due to the provincial Community Transit Grant Program that funded it no longer being

Stacked opened in Tillsonburg

Editor

The latest addition to Tillsonburg’s restaurant scene is already a success.

Stacked opened in the Tillsonburg Town Centre on Feb. 15. Known for its pancakes and breakfast menu, it is open for lunch and also sells burgers. The restaurant’s hours are 7 a.m.to 3 p.m., Monday to Friday, and until 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

The new location is busy from opening to closing, and there have been line-ups on weekends at times.

“People love it,” said owner Jay Kandan. “They said they never have had this type of food in Tillsonburg.”

Kandan came to the business in a roundabout way. He was working at Sunset Grill and the Hilton Garden Hotel in the GTA when he brought his wife Ostien Singarasa to Canada from Sri Lanka in 2017. She suggested he should buy a Sunset Grill franchise. Investigating this, he found it was too expensive. Then, he was working for Sunset Grill in Orangeville to train staff and saw one of the first Stacked franchises there.

That restaurant opening didn’t happen but Mehra encouraged Kandan to stick with it and even loaned him money to get started. A deal was struck and Kandan opened the Woodstock franchise on Sept. 15, 2021.

Kandan’s brother Baalan worked as an engineer for CIBC and was supportive of his brother entering the restaurant business. When the second restaurant was opened in London in June 2023, he convinced Baalan to join in a more handson manner. The two have since opened Stacked locations in Sarnia and Winnipeg. This year is a big one with two more locations coming in London, one more in Winnipeg, and new locations in Ingersoll and Brampton.

Prior to the restaurant opening, training took place for two weeks for its 18 employees. Kandan is there five days a week, and his brother on weekends, at present. Their intention is to leave the store management and staff to run it eventually.

The Kandan brothers have a strong sense of community and assist through donations, sponsoring teams, and provide donations to front-line personnel such as police officers, firefighters and paramedics.

available in the current format. The new program would require a joint application from all the affected lower-tier communities, and there wasn’t interest from other centres in proceeding.

A report from acting Director of Operations Chris Baird asked council to approve a plan to inform the public of the cessation of the plan, effective April 1, 2025, and to authorize the CAO and Director of Operations to renew the agreement for operating in-town transit from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026.

Coun. Kelly Spencer said she had received a few calls and e-mails about the service, and asked Baird to confirm that Tillsonburg had done what it could to get neighbouring municipalities on board with an application to the new grant.

This led to Kandan contacting Manish Mehra, director of franchises, for Stacked. The two hit it off and Kandan was going to buy a franchise in the GTA. The day after he signed the agreement, Covid hit.

Baird answered that was correct, all needed to agree, and it didn’t happen. He said staff will watch for other funding opportunities.

Answering a question from Mayor Deb Gilvesy about ridership numbers, Baird said from August 2020 until Dec. 31, 2024, there were 7,500 riders on Route 1, which was the most popular. Ridership on Routes 2, 3 and 4 varied from 570 to 1,467.

“When you look at the ridership for the investment there it’s considerably low,” Baird said.

“It does seem like a big investment for

As for the food and service, an unsolicited kudos from regular Heather Watterton spoke volumes.

“I love this place,” she said. “They’re all so nice. It’s my second home.”

low ridership,” Spencer agreed, adding community members who don’t drive use it. “I do hope that at one time funding through the provincial government can return and it will return.”

Gilvesy informed council the issue was raised with the Minister of Rural Affairs at the recent ROMA conference. Although there was a commitment to look into it, the election was called.

Council approved the motion authorizing staff to work on a communication plan to advise the public of the changes and to authorize staff to renew the contract for in-town services.

JEFF HELSDON

Brothers Baalan, left, and Jay Kandan are the owners of the new Stacked restaurant in the Tillsonburg Town Centre. The restaurant is open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and an hour longer on weekends. Besides its signature pancakes and breakfasts, Stacked also has a lunch menu.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

Tillsonburg council briefs

Community improvement plan improvements sought

Following council approval of two applications to the Community Improvement Plan, Coun. Chris Rosehart asked for improved communications about the plan. She noted that often the applications come forward after the work is completed.

Acting Director of Operations Chris Baird agreed there could be improvements in making the information available through the building department.

The approved applications were for Skill Shot Pinball at 102 Tillson Ave. for accessibility improvements and Paws and Claws at 356 Tillson Ave for property and accessibility improvements.

Town property sold

Town council approved the sale of a lot on Venison Street East to Verhoeve Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services.

The 17 x 18-meter piece of property was declared surplus by council last fall. It sold for $16,500, the value assigned by a real estate evaluator.

Council compromises on bench price

Council agreed to sell a memorial bench at the 2022 price after town resident Paul Woods raised concerns about his experience of trying to purchase a memorial bench.

Woods appeared before council on Jan. 27, telling councillors that he first requested a memorial bench in 2022 and was quoted the price of $2,373. He didn’t hear anything back despite repeated attempts over the next two years. When he finally talked to someone in 2025, Woods was told the price was now $3,485. Council requested a report on the matter.

A report from the recreation department detailed the bench sales since 2022, and stated the

2025 price was $3,938. That price includes the installation costs and the cement base.

Coun. Pete Luciani said since Woods was the only person on the list from 2022 who wasn’t contacted about completing his purchase, he should be able to purchase the bench for the 2022 price plus installation costs.

“I think we failed in this instance, unless I am missing something,” he said.

Questions from Coun. Kelly Spencer and Mayor Deb Gilvesy revealed selling and installing the bench at that price would result in an $800 loss that would be funded through the operating budget.

Council approved a motion to offer Woods the bench at the 2022 price plus installation.

Operations director change

Acting Director of Operations and Development Chris Baird was recognized for his work with the town as his agreement ended in February. He filled in since the departure of Jonathon Graham as director of Operations and Development .

Baird answered it is a pleasure to work for the town, adding, “Tillsonburg has one of the finest municipal staff I worked for and worked with.”

In a press release dated Feb. 27, the town announced that Carlos Reyes will be starting as the Director of Operations and Development, effective March 3. Reyes previously worked for the town before working for the City of Kitchener. In his new post, Reyes will assume oversight and strategic planning for the Town of Tillsonburg’s Operations and Development department—a portfolio that includes engineering services, building and by-law, public works, water/wastewater, fleet and airport.

Snow lift completed in Tillsonburg downtown

Grants available for food security programs

Oxford Community Foundation announced the availability of $40,000 in grants from The Maple Leaf Community Fund in honour of Harvey and Erma Beaty. Grants will support the capital-related needs of food security programs that promote dignity and build individual and community capacity in Oxford County.

Harvey founded Cold Springs Farm in Thamesford in 1949 and shepherded Cold Springs’ growth from a small farm to a major agri-food enterprise, which eventually became part of Maple Leaf Foods.

Supporting community resilience through food security

The Maple Leaf Community Fund will provide $40,000 in grants to support capital needs for food security programs. These grants aim to foster dignity and strengthen both individual and community capacity through initiatives such as:

1. Food Literacy – providing people with the information, understanding and skills to provide healthy food for themselves and their families. (e.g. nutrition/food safety/meal planning)

nutritious food and promote self-sufficiency. (e.g. social enterprises that support food security; community gardens; social profit enterprises with a focus on food security including training programs for unemployed, at-risk youth and single parents)

"At Oxford Community Foundation, we are committed to building a community where everyone has the resources they need to thrive," said Louise Wardrop, Executive Director of the Foundation. "We are honoured to carry out Harvey and Erma Beaty’s legacy of strengthening and enriching our community through grants from the Maple Leaf Community Fund.”

Application Process and Deadlines

The deadline for grant applications is Tuesday, April 1, 2025. To apply and for more information, please visit www.oxfordcommunityfoundation.org

JEFF HELSDON Editor

Snow lift sounds like the name of a Tom Clancy novel, or an exciting military operation. Instead, it’s something more mundane but of utmost importance: removing the piles of snow from downtown Tillsonburg.

Following the snow on Family Day weekend, the piles of snow between parking areas and the sidewalks was in excess of two feet in height. Snow lift is the term the public works staff uses for the operation where department staff go in at night to remove the snow and transport it outside town to the snow disposal site on Progress Drive.

Asked how the call is made how to make a snow lift, Manager of Public Works Richard Sparham answered, “It's not a specific threshold, it is generally the observed impacts of snow barriers which are problematic to pedestrians to safely navigate their way along sidewalks and trying to climb over snow piles.”

He and Roads Manager Jeff VanGulck made

the call that a snow lift is needed, although there was also input from town councillors and the BIA.

The last time a snow lift was completed was in 2023, and the lack of snow last year didn’t necessitate any clean-up activities. This snow lift was a two-day operation, starting on Feb. 19 at midnight and continuing until 8 a.m. The first night, Broadway and parts of Brock, Ridout, and Harvey Streets were cleared, while a second night was needed to clean the side streets.

It’s no small task, requiring seven staff, four or five contracted dump trucks with drivers, two loaders, a grader, skid steer and a Trackless sidewalk plow.

Sparham praised the dedication of staff for clearing the streets on the Family Day weekend.

“It really doesn’t matter when any major event occurs,” he said. “If it happens on Christmas Day, New Year’s, Family Day, etc., staff’s dedication is such that their duties are to maintain roads and other infrastructure for the safe use by residents. This is something we take seriously and with great pride.”

2. School & Other Nutrition Programs –promoting, educating and allowing people to access healthy meals. (e.g. School breakfast/lunch/after school programs; nutrition and fitness programs.)

3. Sustainable Initiatives Beyond Conventional Food Bank Models – initiatives that establish a reliable supply of

About Oxford Community Foundation Oxford Community Foundation helps people leave a legacy in Oxford, to make it a better place. OCF provides individuals and organizations the opportunity to target their areas of interest and invests and grants funds wisely. One of 208 community foundations across Canada, Oxford Community Foundation is the only community foundation that serves all of Oxford County granting to all aspects of our community including Arts & Culture, Education, the Environment, Heritage, Recreation, Health & Wellness and Social Services.

Manager of Public Works Richard Sparham stands next to the mountains of snow dumped at the town site on Progress Drive. Town crews moved snow out of the downtown on Feb. 19 and 20. A backhoe operator in the background was moving the snow into neater piles so more could be added.

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

(JEFF HELSDON PHOTO)

GOOD SAMARITANS

Having the machinery and the time, Brennan Kinsey, left and Jeff Felske assisted many local residents after the massive dumping of snow two weeks ago by cleaning the heavy snow at the end of people’s driveway for no charge. Both are laid off at present and decided to help people out with small jobs. If the entire driveway was to be cleared, they charged a small fee.

MUSIC CORNER

Kick Out The Jams with the Hamms at The Copper Mug

would lay on the couch and watch MTV all day compared to the doom scroll most people find themselves in on their mobile devicethe overload of 30-second short video clips known as reels, paired with a clip of audio, followed by another clip. Growing up in a rural town outside of Tillsonburg made it even harder to come across new music due to the lack of live concerts, record shops and cable TV.

Finding your new music to listen to is a little different than it was in the late 1980s and early 1990s. A couple decades ago, we would have to flip through our uncle’s record collection or have another sibling’s classmate leave a compact disc at your house. Maybe you

Cornelius Hamm was no stranger to this growing up in a smalltown outside of Langton, Ontario and recalls his time as a youth in Norfolk County.

“I was the youngest of eight kids so I needed music to keep my sanity however I learned a lot of music from them growing up - bands like Kiss and Pantera.”

Hamm recalls his teenage

years fondly. “I would be on my bicycle everywhere with my Sony Walkman listening to mixtapes that my friends and I would share with each other. I used music to help me with growing up to deal with the good and bad.”

FM radio was also a source for new music.

“We listened to the radio quite a bit. Mostly to the '90s rock and classic rock stations.”

With a passion for music and the arts it was quite the natural progression for Cornelius to learn how to play various instruments. Most teenagers in high school were trying out for the football team but Hamm was writing songs with his peers.

In 1998, Cornelius was already in a band called Smile Case with Jeremy Andress,

Jamie Cail, Conrad Reimer and Josh Rozak. A little over two decades later and Hamm still has that passion.

“Passion in music is what drives me to play. I try to put on a show that everyone can sing along to. I’m working on some really fun crowd sing along songs that should get the crowd going.”

Cornelius is no stranger to Tillsonburg with his stand-out performances at local venues like Paddy’s Underground and The Copper Mug. Most of his local gigs you can find Cornelius sharing the bill with another local Tillsonburg musician that also shares the same last name. Daniel Hamm, known in the local music scene for his punk bands Chaliss and Shades Of Norris, can fbe ound sharing the stage whenever possible.

“When Dan Hamm and I

play a show together it is always a super fun time with friends and music.”

Their upcoming show together at The Copper Mug will be no different with a night of songs planned for music fans no matter what genre of music you like.

“I grew up on alternative rock, grunge and punk rock. Bands like Nirvana, Alice In Chains, NOFX and Lagwagon. The album August And Everything After by the Counting Crows got me through some dark times in my life. Nowadays I listen to a lot of passionate alternative country like Tyler Childers, Zach Bryan, Colter Wall and The White Buffalo.”

Cornelius Hamm names his influences while explaining how everything he listens to gets incorporated into his setlist.

UPCOMING SHOWS

MAR. 5 - YOU HAD ME

The Copper Mug Free - 8:30 p.m.

MAR. 6 - OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH BILLY GIBBONS

Ingersoll

MONDAY, March 10, 1:00 – 2:30pm

Ingersoll District Memorial Arena 97 Mutual Street South

Norwich

TUESDAY, March 11, 1:30 – 3:00pm Norwich Community Centre 53 Stover Street South

Tillsonburg

WEDNESDAY, March 12, 1:00 – 2:30pm Tillsonburg Colin Campbell Community Arena 45 Hardy Avenue

“I might even break out the old ukulele for this upcoming show.”

The same can be expected for Daniel Hamm.

“I no longer write music.” Daniel explained. “I've transitioned to more of an entertainer than artist. I love when people are having the absolute best time while I'm performing and since I love almost all genres, it's easy to play something for everyone.”

Come sing and dance the night away with Daniel Hamm and Cornelius Hamm on Saturday March 8 at The Copper Mug. The event starts at 8:00pm. Reserving a table in advance is suggested by calling the Copper Mug at 519-8426227. This is a free event. Anyone wanting more details can visit The Copper Mug’s Facebook page.

Paddy's Underground Free - 7:30p.m. (sign up sheet available at 4pm)

MAR. 7 - MCINTYRE'S WISH

The Copper Mug Free - 8:00pm

MAR. 8 - SDN COMEDY

The Copper Mug Free - 6:30pm

MAR. 8 - DANIEL HAMM AND CORNELIUS HAMM

The Copper Mug Free - 8:00pm

MAR. 9 - SIGHT UNSOUND

The Copper Mug Free - 5:00pm

MAR. 12 - EUCHRE NIGHT

The Copper Mug Free - 6:00pm

MAR. 13 - OPEN MIC NIGHT WITH BILLY GIBBONS

Paddy's Underground Free - 7:30p.m. (sign up sheet available at 4pm)

MAR. 13 - MUSIC TRIVIA

The Copper Mug Free - 8:00pm

MAR. 14 - DOUBLE

EXPERIENCE, THE LEXINGTON CURE, ADDI JOHN

Paddy's Underground

$15 - 8:00pm - all ages/ licensed

MAR. 15 - ROB CROMWELL

The Copper Mug Free - 9:00pm

MAR. 21 - CUFF THE DUKE & CHLOE DOUCET Paddy's Underground $33.90 - 8:00pm - all ages/ licensed

BEN ANDRESS

Tillsonburg Post Columnist

Snowmobile trails opened for short time

JEFF HELSDON Editor

It’s been a winter of cold temperatures and snow, but there hasn’t been enough snow to open the trails for more than a week for local snowmobile club, the Southern Sno Riders.

Derek Scholten, the club's public relations director, said despite the cold weather, trail conditions only opened Feb. 17. A little more than a week later, they were closed again.

“We don’t want people on them,” he said last week, hoping that the trails could be reopened again. “We want to save what we’ve got because there’s lots of frost on the ground.

The Southern Sno Riders is the local affiliate of the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs. The local club maintains 325 kilometres of trails in Oxford and Norfolk. The club’s trail connects to the Burford system in Norwich Township, and to Woodstock in Burgessville. Trails then run south to Lake Erie at Turkey Point. Those trails allow riding from Woodstock to Cochrane.

The provincial organization also maintains a map of which trails are open, and which are closed.

Although the season may end up being only a week, that’s longer than the single day the trails were open last year.

Scholten said the club had some new pieces of its trail open in areas such as Ostrander and Culloden, portions of the trail most had not written before due to the lack of snow the last few years.

“They were just very impressed,” he said.

With the trails open, Scholten saw the economic benefits of snowmobilers out in the community, saying he saw photos of snow machines in front of a Turkey Point restaurant on the weekend.

When the trails are open, the Southern Sno Riders have three groomers used to maintain the trails. That doesn’t mean club members haven’t been busy. The club’s 10 trail captains are responsible for contacting the farmers whose property the trail traverses.

owners a pair of leather gloves and enter them in a cash draw to show appreciation for allowing them access to their property.

“Within those length of trails they are responsible for, they are to visit the landowners, not just to renew the permission for the farm, but as a goodwill gesture to see how things went last year, to see if there is a need to have the trail moved slightly because of the crops they are growing,” Scholten explained.

The trail captains also give the land-

In the meantime, Southern Sno Riders had their first club ride in Temagami last weekend.

RIDDLES

A Hole.

I go up but never come down. What am I? Age.

I have eyes but can’t see. What am I? A Potato.

What has a heart that doesn’t beat? An Artichoke.

I have a neck but no head, and I wear a cap. What am I? A Bottle.

The more you share me, the less you have. What am I? A Secret.

I can be cracked, made, told, and played. What am I? A Joke.

I run but never walk, I have a bed but never sleep. What am I? A River.

JOSIE, ZENDA AND LUNA

Our loveable furry friends, Josie, Zenda and Luna, beautiful Bernese mountain dogs, are extremely patient with their “Hoomans” particularly when dressing them up. These girls are like Velcro, by our sides at all times!

FEBRUARY NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

The more you remove from me, the bigger I get. What am I?

COMING EVENTS

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT RIBS EVERY MONDAY!

Enjoy a full rack of our BBQ Back Ribs & make it All-You-Can-Eat for only $1* more.

2 CAN DINE TUESDAYS

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY *Full

THE FRIENDSHIP TABLE - FREE FRIENDSHIP DINNERS

Monday, Mar. 10, Apr. 14, May 12, June 9, 2025; Doors open at 4:30. Dinner Served 5:00-6:30

St. Mary’s Church Basement, Corner of Rolph St & Venison St, Tillsonburg SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL HELPING THOSE IN NEED. GOOD NEWS!! FREE FRIENDSHIP DINNERS ARE BACK! Everyone Welcome

WHAT MAKES WINTER SHORTER?

Listening, dancing and enjoying 50’s-70’s country music at the Ingersoll Jamboree! Every other Friday afternoon from 1-4 p.m. at the Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St S, Ingersoll. Walk ins welcome at the door.

VON OXFORD GRIEF CARE:

FREE Monthly Grief Support Group Register at: oxford.griefsupport@von.ca or 519-539-1231 Ext 6299 or 6296

TILLSONBURG

WHEN: 2nd Tuesday of every month

WHERE: VON Oxford Office 24 Brock St. W., Tillsonburg TIME: 6:30PM-8:00PM

INGERSOLL

WHEN: 4th Tuesday of every month

WHERE: Ingersoll Public Library 130 Oxford St., Ingersoll

TIME: 10:30AM –12:00Noon

WOODSTOCK

WHEN: 3rd Saturday of every month

WHERE: Sakura House Hospice 715180 Oxford Rd.4, Woodstock

TIME: 10:30AM-12:00Noon

The March General Meeting will be held on Monday, March 17th at Annandale House NHS starting at 5:30 pm. Please join us for a potluck dinner followed by the Business Meeting at 7 pm. Please bring a main course, salad or dessert, along with your own utensils and dishes. The Business Meeting schedule includes the election of the Executive for

Only $19.99** every Tuesday, with the purchase of two beverages.

KIDS EAT FREE WEDNESDAYS Kids Eat Free*** every Wednesday with the purchase of an Adult Entrée. Dine-in only.

the next year as well as the adoption of the Annual Budget. All are welcome!

INTERESTED IN BRIDGE?

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

TILLSONBURG LIONS

The Tillsonburg Lions meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. You are invited to their dinner meetings in the Lion's Den at the Community Centre. If you are interested in giving back to your Community contact Jim at 519 409 0876 for more information.....all are welcome.

TILLSONBURG LEGION LUNCH

Wednesday March 12 from noon to 1pm. Serving homemade soups and sandwiches, desserts, coffee, and tea for only $15 cash per person at the door! All welcome. For more information call 519842-5281.

TILLSONBURG LEGION

PRESENTS "EASY AS PI"

Saturday March 15 from 7pm-11pm. Advance tickets are $15. All welcome to dance to this four piece band playing classic 60s to modern alternative sounds. More info call 519-842-5281.

TILLSONBURG LEGION

SPAGHETTI SUPPER

Friday March 21 from 5-6pm. Includes dessert, tea, and coffee. Only $15 cash at the door. Vegetarian sauce or meat sauce, bread and salad. For more information call 519-842-5281.

COPING WITH GRIEF & LOSS

8-week grief support group starts Thursday, April 3rd 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. at Tillsonburg Seniors Center. Space is limited. Pre-registration required. Cost $20 for members, $25 non-members. Group led by trained facilitators and focuses on coping and living with loss. To register, contact Compassionate Grief Support

DAILY DEALS

400 Simcoe St., Tillsonburg

at 519-866-3016 or email faye@ compassionategriefsupport.ca.

ARE YOU IN A JAM?

March 7 & 21, April 4 &11, May 2 & 23, June 6 & 20 from 1-4p.m. Masonic Hall, 190 Thames St S, Ingersoll. Ingersoll's Country Music Jamboree Club is celebrating 40 years. New members wanted. Qualifications - love 50-70's country music. Listen, dance, enjoy! The club welcomes walk-ins at the door.

TILLSONBURG LIONS

The Tillsonburg Lions meet on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. You are invited to their dinner meetings in the Lion's Den at the Community Centre. If you are interested in giving back to your Community contact Jim at 519 409 0876 for more information.....all are welcome.

ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARTY

Friday, March 14th

Starting at 7:30pm

Music & light snacks. Hotdogs available for purchase. The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-443-5588

https://www.teetervillelegionbranch526.

ca

Join us for a friendly game of DARTS, Friday, March 7th

Registration at 6:45, Starting at 7:00 pm

Everyone is Welcome. Draw for partners. Cash only, we do not have debit, or ATM.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-4435588

https://www.teetervillelegionbranch526.

ca

Join us for a friendly game of DARTS, Friday, March 21st

Registration at 6:45, Starting at 7:00 pm

Everyone is Welcome. Draw for partners.. Cash only, we do not have

debit, or ATM.

Wed.-Fri. 3 pm-10 pm, Sat.1 pm-10 pm, Sun.1 pm-6 pm.

The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-4435588

https://www.teetervillelegionbranch526.

ca

OPEN JAM

Saturday, March 29th, starting at 1:00 pm

Last Saturday of every month. Everyone is welcome to bring an instrument or just come out and listen to the music. Free event. Cash only, we do not have debit, or ATM. Wed.-Fri. 3 pm10 pm, Sat.1 pm-10 pm, Sun.1 pm-6 pm. The Wagner Memorial, Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario. For More Information call, the Legion at 519-4435588 or

Check out our website at https://www. teetervillelegionbranch526.ca

MEMBERS GENERAL MEETING 1st Wednesday of every month Starting at 7:00 pm

Not a member contact us to join The Wagner Memorial Teeterville Legion Branch 526. 3890 Teeterville Road, Teeterville, Ontario. For More Information Call, the Legion 519-4435588

https://www.teetervillelegionbranch526. ca

TILLSONBURG AND AREA

MINISTERIAL INVITES YOU TO OUR LENTEN SERVICES

Every Wednesday starting March 05 until April 09, 12:00 noon - 12:30 p.m. Schedule: March 05 - Crosspoint Community Church, Karen Hodges. March 12 -First Baptist Church, Father Steve Marsh. March 19 - Bethel, Pastor Joe Fenten. March 26 - Tillsonburg Alliance, Pastor Ryan Hutchins. April 02 - St. Mary's, Pastor Benjamin Emery. April 09 - St. Paul's, Pastor Alan Adams.

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

JOSEPH WILLIAM “BILL” CORNER

1945-2025 OBITUARY

Joseph William (Bill) Corner passed away February 28, 2025 at Sakura House Hospice, Woodstock. He was born October 2, 1945 to Bill & Betty (Zavitz) Corner of Sparta, Ontario. Bill was predeceased by his parents, brothers Peter (Gail), Larry (Deb), sisters Silvia (Brian) and Susan (aged two). He is survived by his wife Darlene (Titchner) of Tillsonburg and his sister, Laura of Courtland Ontario.

Bill is the beloved grandfather of 11, and the proud father of 4: Deb Corner (Jo), Diane Corner (Jason), Darcy Archer (Clint) and Joe Corner (Aubrey). He is also an uncle and great uncle to many nieces and nephews and leaves behind many cousins.

Bill was husband, chauffer, cook, gardener, and gambling buddy to his wife Darlene for 50 years and second best euchre player in the world! He was a lumber man through and through. He started his career at the Elgin Co-op in St. Thomas, then George Backus Lumber in Tillsonburg, moving on to BuiltRite Cash & Carry in Port Stanley, Saveway Lumber in Simcoe, H.A. Warwick Lumber Limited Tillsonburg, and retiring at Moffatt & Powell in Tillsonburg at the age of 69. Bill was a member of the St. Thomas Hunt Club for 60 years and enjoyed the friendships of his fellow hunters.

Special thanks to Dr. Caperchione, Dr. Tsvetkova and the team at the Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre who were amazing throughout Bill’s care. Thanks also to The Oxford Palliative Care team, Dr. Regis, and the nurses for their compassion and kindness. Much appreciation goes out to the various support teams, including Sakura House, who made Bill’s final hours a peaceful time for he and his family.

Lastly, to all the family and friends who called or messaged with words of support. Every one made a difference.

Rest in peace Bill, lord knows you deserve it.

Cremation has taken place. A memorial visitation will take place Friday March 7, 2025 at Ostrander’s Funeral Home, 43 Bidwell Street, Tillsonburg, ON from 6:00pm9:00pm

Celebration of life will take place at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to the Nature Conservancy of Canada or the VON Sakura House. Contributions can be made directly to each organization or by contacting Ostrander’s Funeral Home (519) 842-5221.

Passed away, suddenly but peacefully with her loving niece Mary Lynn and nephew Larry by her side. Nancy Warren of Tillsonburg and formerly of RR7 Tillsonburg, at the age of 92. Born in Port Burwell, daughter of Gordon Warren and the late Marcella (Walker) Warren. Nancy was a dedicated Insurance Broker originally with Denton- Vance Insurance Ltd. and later at Burns and Demeyere and associates both in Tillsonburg. However Nancy’s true passion was curling. Nancy was very involved in the Tillsonburg Curling Club, becoming the first female director, volunteering as treasurer for eight years and was a proud life time member of the club. You could always find her glued to her television when the women’s Scotties were on.

Nancy is survived by a loved niece Mary Lynn Vince (late Todd Vince) and by a loved nephew Larry Holzheu and partner Terry Venerus of Fonthill. Also survived by greatnephews Derek Vince (Jenna)and their daughter Margot of Toronto and a great nephew Ryan Vince of London. Predeceased by a sister Doreen Warren (1940) and a sister and brother-in-law Marjorie (February 16, 2004) and Gus Holzheu (November 17, 2021). Nancy had good neighbours at 6 Lamers Court and many good friends she made while curling who will remember her fondly.

A family graveside service will take place later at the family plot in the Tillsonburg Cemetery. Everyone who knew Nancy is invited to express personal condolences, share favourite memories or contribute memorial donations any charity of your choice online on Nancy’s tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com or by contacting Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes - Burial and Cremation Services Inc. 262 Broadway Street , Tillsonburg (519) 842-4238, entrusted with all the funeral arrangements with confidence.

CLASSIFIEDS

GABRIEL

Gabriel Van De Wiele was born in Ninove, Belgium on April 25th, 1920. In 1928, Gabe along with his mother Victora and father Richard and brother Victor came to Canada, settling in the Chatham, Ontario area, where the family worked in sugar beets, before moving to tobacco country in Norfolk County. They lived and worked in Straffordville and area, eventually buying the family farm in Courtland.

Gabe married Mary Theresa Vanderhoeven on December 9th, 1942. Their daughter Yvonne (Al Cooper) was born in 1954. By then the couple was growing tobacco on their own farm on the John Walker sideroad in Elgin County near Aylmer. He made many friends in the community while growing tobacco. In 1969, Gabe & Mary semi-retired and moved to Tillsonburg where Gabe lived out the rest of his life. Mary died on Good Friday April 22nd, 2011.

Gabe enjoyed hunting, fishing and socializing with friends and family. He was also a huge Nascar fan, attending many races in Cayuga and Delaware, Ontario. Mary and Gabe travelled throughout North America and Europe, spending time in Bonita Beach Florida in winter. Gabe enjoyed westerns, The Red Green show, Tommy Hunter, Gordie Tapp, The Flinstones, Mel Blanc cartoons and Lawrence Welk. For a short time he was a separate school board trustee in Elgin County, for the rural Our Lady of Fatima school.

Gabe is predeceased by his wife Mary (nee Vanderhoeven) his Father and Mother Richard and Victoria (nee Kosynski) Van De Wiele and his brother Victor Van De Wiele (Alida) and his cousin Mary VanDeMaele (Ben). He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the Nurses, PSWs and Staff of TDMH, Dr. Hayat, Dr. Howard Lamb and Care Partners and Private Caregivers: Lou, Ellie, Dianne and Dee for their exceptional care and compassion.

Friends, neighbours, and relatives were received by the family on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes Chapel, 262 Broadway, Tillsonburg. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Thursday, February 27th, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s R.C. Church (51 Venison St. W, Tillsonburg), by Rev. Fr. Seejo John. Interment followed in Tillsonburg Cemetery. Everyone who knew Gabriel is invited to express personal condolences, share favorite memories and photos, send flowers, or contribute memorial donations to the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital Foundation or to any charity of your choice via Gabriel’s online tribute page at www.verhoevefuneralhomes.com or by contacting the Maurice J. Verhoeve Funeral Homes–Burial and Cremation Services Inc., Tillsonburg (519) 842-4238, entrusted with all funeral arrangements, with confidence.

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)

CAROLYN ELIZABETH LAMERS

(FEBRUARY 6, 1963 – FEBRUARY 15, 2025)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Carolyn Elizabeth Lamers on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the age of 62. Carolyn passed away at LHSC-Victoria Hospital surrounded by her loving family after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Carolyn was born in Tillsonburg, Ontario, and had a successful and rewarding career with the family business, Tillsonburg Broadcasting Co. Ltd., until 2017 when it was sold to Rogers Communication. She held the position of Sales/Marketing Manager. Carolyn was active in the community, helping with Turtlefest, Helping Hand Food Bank, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, the Tillsonburg Chamber of Commerce, and the Tillsonburg BIA.

Carolyn was a loving partner to Jerry Van Hamme. She was the cherished daughter of John D. Lamers of Tillsonburg and the late Judith Ann Lamers (2011). She was a dear sister to Christine Lamers (John) of Tillsonburg. Carolyn was the proud mother of Tyler Watts (April) of Tillsonburg, David Watts (Hayley) of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Aaron McFerran (Chantelle) of Kitchener. She was a loving aunt to Carly Light (Branden) of Calgary, Alberta, and a cherished grandmother to Owen Williams. Carolyn was a niece to Shirley Wright (Brian) of Niagara Falls and an adopted family member to Elisha, Al, Liam, and Anneke of Florence, Ontario. Carolyn was also blessed with cherished lifelong friends, Ronda and Liz, who were as close as sisters.

Carolyn was a mother through and through, embodying love, strength, and grace in all that she did. A true force of nature, she found joy in embracing the adventure life brought her—from the freedom of motorcycle rides with Jerry to simple pleasures, like watching butterflies. With a heart of gold and a personality that uplifted everyone around her, her warmth and kindness brightened every room she entered. Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends, who we believe were her greatest source of happiness.

Although we wish we had more time with Carolyn, we cherish all the amazing memories we have with her. Her passing leaves a very large hole in our lives, and words cannot express how much she will be missed by family and friends, and all who knew her. But we find comfort in the knowledge that we will hold her in our hearts until we can hold her again in heaven.

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held for Carolyn at a later date and time to be arranged. We are immensely grateful to the incredible team of doctors and staff at London Health Sciences Centre and Woodstock General Hospital. We also thank the home care nurses, Kim and Cindy.

Those who knew Carolyn and wish to make a donation in her memory are welcome to donate to the LHSC Cancer Program or the Tillsonburg Food Bank. Donations can be made online with the hospital or the food bank, or via check payable to the hospital or food bank by contacting Ostrander’s Funeral Home at (519) 842-5221.

Personal condolences can be made at www.ostrandersfuneralhome.com

OBITUARY

HAWKINS, MARGARET

(NEE TAPE) APRIL 27, 1935-FEBRUARY 24, 2025

Dear Mom,

This is a love letter. A thank you. An homage. And a goodbye. Started on February 24th, 2025 - the day you passed away - this has been a lifetime in the making.

We’re grateful for your love of family and friends.

Taking our cue from you, we’ve been reminiscing about your Brampton birth and Ottawa childhood, your beloved parents Robert Tape and Bessie Wilson, and close relationship with brothers Norman (Judy) and Rob (Helen). We all knew that a highlight of your week was the Sunday morning call with your sister, Carolyn Blair (Dick). Cally was far away, but close to your heart. Your bookshelves proudly displayed photos of grandchildren Adelaide, Amber, Clara, Kaya, and Tyson—and great-granddaughter Sloane, who recently made ‘screensaver status’. Your keen interest in genealogy led to a visit to Ireland to research your roots and the expansive family tree you created—an artistic masterpiece that dates back to the Duke of Wellington. And you were also a loyal friend, making an impact on so many.

We’re so proud of your chosen profession.

Given your compassion and generosity, it’s fitting that you studied nursing at the Ottawa Civic Hospital. We have fond memories of visiting the infants you cared for at the Cobourg Hospital nursery. But you truly found your calling in community nursing in Cobourg and later in Peterborough, working for the VON. Your award-winning career included pioneering adult day programs—pilot projects that added meaning to your life and the lives of others.

We marvel at your creativity.

There are quilts across Canada with your handwritten labels—on beds, walls, tables, and in exhibit halls. You showcased your talent in the bold colours, shapes, and themes you explored. This art form wasn’t just an outlet for a decades-long passion, but for an endless love of learning. Your creativity didn’t stop there. You made jackets and handbags and wallets and purses. You had the greenest of thumbs, keeping plants in the house and garden lush all year round. As a baker, your pies, date squares, and sticky buns were without peer. You made our intricate wedding cakes. But above all, it was your legendary butter tarts—with their tender pastry and soft, indulgent filling—that will always be the stuff of dreams.

We celebrate your fearlessness.

To see you set up a Wi-Fi printer in your late 80s, answer your smart watch, post on Instagram, or call us on FaceTime showed a sense of daring we never took for granted. Even your high-tech sewing machine was a challenge you welcomed with patience and interest. Soups. Sauces. Appetizers. Your experimentation in the kitchen never waned. Remarkably, you tackled new and complex recipes, even later in life, when many lose their curiosity. Our regret is that you didn’t live to experience your 90th birthday in April, at the top of the CN Tower, because that adventure was on your bucket list.

We admired your sense of style and humour.

You were meticulous, taking pride in your appearance. Accessorising with carefully chosen necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Sewing flattering outfits—including a skirt earlier this month because the fabric was soft and elegant. Intuitively knowing the mauves, purples, and blues that complemented your snow-white hair and hazel eyes. We could each make you laugh and flash that stunning smile. You indulged us in the frequent retelling of prized childhood stories—skiing out the living room door down a makeshift hill; pooling our money to buy donuts and pastries while you were at work, then forcing down dinner so you wouldn’t be the wiser. You must have been the wiser, mom. But you never let on.

You’ll be forever missed.

Love, Janet (Mike), Gail (Arlyn), Norman (Sheila), and Peter (MJ)

There will be a Celebration of Life in April. For those who wish to donate in Marg’s honour, feel free to support CAMH, Coldest Night of The Year or VON Sakura House directly, or (by cheque made out to the chosen organization) through Wareing Cremation Services, 161 Broadway St., Tillsonburg, Ontario N4G 3P9 who have been entrusted with Final Arrangements. Your messages of remembrance and condolence may be shared at wareingcremation.ca

We’d also like to thank the Multi-Service Centre (Tillsonburg) Assisted Living Services team for allowing our mom to remain in her home with dignity and independence and the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Integrated Stroke Unit for their compassionate care.

The Verhoeve family has been serving the Langton and Tillsonburg communities since 1958, we are 100% family owned and operated with the goal of putting your family first.