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PAGE PAGE 8, 2026 Thursday, January The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette WELLESLEY BUDGET APPROVED BRAVES PLAYER ACQUISITIONS
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Region of Waterloo passes 2026 budget Wilmot mayor inching closer to releasing first strong mayor budget LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SHOW US YOUR WILMOT FACEBOOK PAGE)
After days of harsh winter conditions pummeling the area, blue skies finally return over Wilmot’s landscape on New Year’s Day. Photo shared by Heidi Lowrick on the SUYW Facebook page.
Winter storms wreak havoc on Oxford and Wilmot roads
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A mixed bag of severe winter weather hit Oxford County and Wilmot Township over the last few weeks, creating hazardous driving conditions and keeping public
work crews busy clearing snow and applying salt and sand to area roadways. Oxford County declared a significant weather event for county roads at 4 p.m. on Dec. 29, citing high winds that caused drifting snow in rural areas and prevented
snow plows from meeting provincial maintenance standards. “It means we aren’t able to keep up with the snow accumulation and meet those minimum standards. It doesn’t necessarily mean the plows will come off the Continued on page 2
“Region of Waterloo budget delivers affordability and service investments.” That’s how a press release from the region described the recently passed 2026 budget, which represents a 5.1 per-cent tax increase for total regional services. This translates into a $129 increase for the average household in Wilmot before the township completes its budget in the near future. “I remain critical of a lot of the items that did get passed, but this certainly is the lowest increase the region has passed in my term on council,” said Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen, who has a seat at the region table. The region saw a tax hike of just under seven per cent in 2024, a number that jumped to 9.5 per cent last year. Salonen said, on the positive side, budget requests by departments were generally around the level of inflation. On the other hand, she did not support the Waterloo Regional Police Services plan to build a new $174 million communications centre, an expense that was ultimately passed by a single vote. “It’s not that I don’t understand and appreciate the need for it, but it is taking a step back in a bigger scope at everything that’s happening across the region. We only have one Continued on page 3
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
One of the snowiest Decembers in years hits Oxford County Continued from page 1
road, but it is challenging to clear roadways with drifting and continued snow accumulation,” explained Frank Gross, the county’s senior manager of transportation. “It makes the public aware to expect poor road conditions if they have to travel. Visibility did get very bad during the event once the sun went down, so we did have to pull the plows off the road for a bit. Snowplows in the ditch don’t do us any good.” The last time the county declared a significant event was in February of last year, and before that, in December of 2023. Gross said he understands people’s frustrations during times of heavy snow but added it does take time to clear county roads. “It’s challenging when the event is occurring … with all the snow squalls coming through. The conditions can change so fast and it can be challenging to keep the roads in decent shape for driving.” In terms of budget implications for snow removal, the county has surpassed its allotted amount for 2025. “We also had quite a bit of snow in November. Our budget is based on a threeyear average, and it is hard to predict, but we try to match what we see historically.” He also had some advice for Oxford County drivers. “As drivers, we all have a role to play making sure we have good tires with snow tires preferred. Avoid any unnecessary travel when winter storms occur and
(FACEBOOK PHOTO)
Pictured is traffic on the 16th Line in East Zorra-Tavistock during a snowstorm on Dec. 29. Significant weather events were declared throughout the region as snowsqualls affected driving conditions throughout the region.
monitor the weather and social media.” Oxford County and Wilmot Township received approximately 54.5 centimetres of snow in December, making it one of the snowiest Decembers the regions have seen in more than a decade. A number of area roads were also closed as driving conditions deteriorated. Wilmot declared its significant weather event at 5 p.m. on Dec. 29 and also added a snow event at the same time. “All on-street parking is prohibited during a snow event to allow plows to clear roads safely and efficiently. Vehicles parked on the street during the snow event may be ticketed and/or towed,” explained a township release. Both events were cancelled at noon on
Dec. 31. This snow event will remain in effect for 24 hours unless extended or cancelled. Wilmot provided the Gazette with a joint statement from its Infrastructure services and bylaw enforcement teams. “Our last significant weather event was issued last year on Feb. 12 and ended on Feb. 18. December’s event was issued in response to substantial snowfall and sustained winds that exceeded 70 km/hr.” It added plows were running steadily to keep roads open and safe for travel. Areas where snow was drifting required more attention and the use of a snowblower to maintain road widths. Despite the requirement for residents not to park on area roadways, several tickets were given out.
“Our bylaw enforcement team spoke with numerous residents about staying off the roads during the events and issued nine tickets for parking violations. All on-street parking is banned during a snow event to allow plows to clear roads safely and efficiently.” Members of the Oxford OPP and Waterloo Regional Police Service were flooded with calls to attend collisions and vehicles in ditches across the area, but no serious injuries were reported. East Zorra-Tavistock also declared a significant weather event at 4 p.m. on Dec. 29. “This means that we’re working hard to clear snow, but the severe conditions are making it difficult to maintain roads and sidewalks to the minimum standards set out by the Province of Ontario,” said a township Facebook post. “We may be required to plow high-volume roads multiple times before being able to address lower traffic routes, subdivisions and sidewalks. We’re asking residents to postpone any non-essential travel and to use extreme caution if you must leave your house,” it added. The event ended at noon on Dec. 31. “Thank you to all of our community members in East Zorra-Tavistock for their patience and cooperation during this time and thank you to our public works team for their hard work and dedication towards keeping our community safe,” explained another social media post.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
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T H I S W E E K E N D O N LY ! 2026 regional budget approved, tax hike lower FRIDAY - SUNDAY than recent years Continued from page 1
taxpayer and the police budget isn’t the only thing they pay for.” She added for her, it came down to what the region can afford, and in her opinion, the scale and scope of the project is a luxury versus what is attainable and affordable for residents. Salonen also raised concerns about a future bill from the province related to a new hospital planned for the region in the coming years. The Waterloo Regional Health Network is planning a new state-of-the-art hospital to be located on the University of Waterloo’s north campus. Under Ontario’s current model for hospital funding, local partners are responsible for a portion of the project cost known as the local share plan. According to recent presentations to local councils, it is expected to be about 25 per cent of the hospital’s total cost. “That is a huge ask coming on our tax base. …There is still only one taxpayer, and that share we know will be in the half-billion to billion-dollar range if we look at other comparables in Ontario for community shares for hospitals.” Salonen said the region needs to start saving now for the expense and weigh it against what the other needs in the community are, something that was not approved during budget deliberations. Another worry is the future cost of infrastructure work on the region’s water system. “That money comes from water reserves and user rates, but still, the person paying that bill is the homeowner. I think there was still room to cut some things from the regional budget that were a bit more of a nice-to-have versus a need.” “Regional council has passed a 2026 plan and budget that provides critical services today and invests wisely for future growth. This year’s budget focuses on affordability while making progress on community priorities,” added the release. Investments in the budget include public health programs and services to improve prenatal and child-health outcomes and creating new child-care spaces across the region. Also included is a lowcost transit fare card program for community agencies, offering a new oneday-a-week free ride pilot for seniors and purchasing an additional bus for Kiwanis Transit serving Wilmot, Woolwich and Wellesley townships. Other spending that does not provide a direct benefit to Wilmot includes the development of a 10-year strategy for seniors services and the Sunnyside Campus, as well as the launch of a new 20-bed women’s overnight warming centre in Cambridge. “The Region of Waterloo provides critical services that our community depends on each and every day. Waterloo Region continues to grow, and investing now gives us a solid foundation for the future,” said Regional Chair Karen Redman.
“This budget has seen investment in housing affordability, child care, accessible transit and local economic growth to name just a few. No budget is ever easy, and we heard loud and clear that the cost of living is a challenge for residents. With that in mind, affordability has been a top priority for council and the 2026 plan and budget prioritizes what matters most for residents.” Wilmot’s draft budget to be released Friday Salonen gave the Gazette a sneak peak into Wilmot’s draft budget during a Wednesday morning interview, just before press deadline. Her first Strong Mayor Power budget was expected to be released sometime Friday, Jan. 9. The mayor hired consulting firm KPMG to work with township staff to create the document. Salonen explained the process has been a deep dive into a zero-based exercise for each expense. “And what that means is instead of taking numbers from last or previous years and adding on an increase relevant to the cost of living, instead, they have had to justify every single line item. That’s been done through looking at multiple years of actuals in comparison to the budgets.” Salonen said she is encouraged by the use of grounded, factual numbers in the budget, which she said will help lay the groundwork for future documents. “I see this budget as a foundational one going forward for the community in terms of knowing what things actually cost us to run and then properly accounting for that.” She added bringing in a third party to have fresh eyes on the township’s finances has provided the results she expected and has filled in the staffing gaps at Wilmot, at least for now. “We’ve gone through some structural changes at the municipality which did leave us without any certified accounting professionals in the building. (KPMG) really filled that expertise gap. We have great financial staff on our team, but we do need an accountant to do the books at the end of the day.” 2026 is an election year, and while Salonen doesn’t know if she will be in the mayor’s seat come early December, she added the potential for a hybrid budget program going forward is possible. “You will see we have made investments in our financial team to ensure we can build in-house capacity and resiliency. However, that’s not to say we might not come out of this thinking there could be some other process in the future.” Salonen said the second part of the KPMG engagement was to have them perform long-term financial planning for the municipality. “That work is starting this month and it’s also to help set up our financial team. We will see where that goes, what makes sense and what future councils think.”
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Waterloo regional police conclude Toronto man charged after single-vehicle collision in East Zorra-Tavistock 2025 Festive RIDE campaign alcohol concentration (80 plus) WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) has concluded its annual Festive RIDE (Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere) campaign, which ran from Nov. 20, 2025, to Jan. 1 across Waterloo Region. The campaign aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving and ensure motorists were driving sober during the holiday season. Over the course of the campaign, officers conducted RIDE programs and mobile checks throughout the region, stopping and checking approximately 10,600 vehicles. As a result, police laid multiple charges, including: • Six impaired-related charges (three impaired by alcohol and three over
80 charges) • Four three-day suspensions • 43 Highway Traffic Act charges • Four Liquor Licence and Control Act charges “Driving impaired is a choice that puts lives at risk,” said Staff Sgt. Scott Griffiths of the WRPS traffic services unit in a press release. “While we are encouraged by the many drivers making responsible decisions, we will continue to focus on enforcement and education to prevent tragedies on our roads.” The WRPS reminds drivers that all young, novice and commercial drivers must have no alcohol or drugs in their system while driving. Plan ahead and arrange for a safe ride home. Anyone who suspects a driver is driving impaired should call 911 immediately.
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An individual from Toronto is facing charges after a single-vehicle collision on Township Road 8, Oxford OPP say. On Dec. 29, 2025, at approximately 8 p.m., members of the Oxford OPP were dispatched to a report of a single-vehicle collision that had occurred on Township Road 8, near Oxford Road 29 in the Township of East-Zorra Tavistock (EZT). It was reported a vehicle had left the road and entered the ditch. Officers attended and spoke with the lone occupant of the vehicle. There were no injuries reported because of the collision. Matthew Sibenik, 38, of Toronto, has been charged with: • Dangerous operation • Operation while impaired - blood
• Operation while impaired - alcohol Police issued a 90-day administrative driver’s license suspension, and a seven-day vehicle impoundment was initiated as per statute. The accused was held for a bail hearing and has since been remanded into custody. The OPP is committed to safety for all who utilize Ontario’s roadways. Members of the public are urged to report impaired driving by calling 911 in emergency situations. Complaints of impaired, aggressive, or careless driving can also be made by calling 1-888-310-1122. Cutline: A Toronto man was charged by Oxford OPP with impaired driving following a single-vehicle collision in East Zorra-Tavistock Dec. 29. Photo courtesy of Oxford OPP
A New Year’s update from the New Dundee Snowmobile Club NEW DUNDEE SNOWMOBILE CLUB Submitted to the Gazette
Thanks to the generous support of 50 landowners, the New Dundee Snowmobile Club trails are marked and ready for snow. Watch the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) website with the Interactive Trail Guide to see when the trails are open. There are 50 kilometres of trails that connect to the Plattsville Snowmobile Club in the west, the Drumbo Snowmobile Club in the south and Nith Valley Snowmobile Club through Baden. This has been a challenging year as the
clubs were originally forced to decrease the east loop of trails due to insufficient funding from the government to the OFSC. However, in late November, the funding was increased and trails went back to the original plan. Marking trails in three feet of snow this year required loader tractors to make a path so the sleds with trailers of stakes and signs could pass through. Thanks to the volunteers and the tractor owners who helped. Some new major concerns include the following: • Some farms have new owners, some have new land renters and some
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fields have crops that landowners do not want a trail on and have not given permission for trails. As a result, trail location must change and are not where trails were in previous years. One major trail along Wilmot Centre Road/Township Road 15 must now travel along the shoulder of the road into Baden and not in the fields. “Follow Road Trail” signage is in place. It is essential that you stay on the shoulder of the three kilometres of road as you would be trespassing. You must not use the fields where
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this trail used to be. Your snowmobile track in the field is evidence that you are trespassing. This will impact the decision to grant trail permission another year. Future development of subdivisions in the Baden area is going to be a challenge as well. When you travel with your friends in a group of snowmobilers, you need to ensure that EVERYONE stays between the stakes on the trail. Obey the trail signs and the speed limit. Stay safe and enjoy the winter.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Influenza continues to hit hard in Oxford County
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Woodstock Hospital warns of potential long wait times at its ED
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Cases of influenza continue to rise across the Southwestern Public Health Unit area as hospitals report an influx of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms. Colleen Brett is the manager of infectious diseases at the health unit and despite the media attention around this year’s influenza situation, it is nothing out of the ordinary. “What we did notice this year is we experienced flu sooner than we typically do and we are seeing a lot of influenza A, but otherwise it’s following the same track.” According to the latest update to the health unit’s influenza dashboard, last updated on Dec. 14, 31.3 per cent of flu tests are coming back positive, with the risk level still considered very high. Last year’s positive test results peaked at 31.8 per cent on Feb. 16. The health unit also tracks influenza outbreaks at area hospitals, as well as in long-term care and retirement homes. As of press time, that number sat at five across Oxford and Elgin counties as well as the City of St. Thomas.
“It is declared where there is evidence of illness spreading, especially in a longterm care home, and it’s based on specific criteria set out in provincial guidelines, depending on what the illness is,” she added. In general terms, two or more cases in a long-term care home area or hospital wing within a short period of time are grounds for an outbreak declaration. Brett said the health unit supplies outbreak-management support, which includes appropriate testing. “We then encourage adherence to very specific infection prevention and control measures. We may have to isolate or cohort those who are ill and then just provide ongoing support to prevent further spread.” As of April 2022, long-term care homes were required to have an infection prevention and control (IPAC) lead on staff. The regulation also sets minimum hours that the IPAC lead must work onsite each week, based on the size of the home. The mandate was introduced after the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted gaps in infection control practices in the sector. Brett said working with each home’s IPAC lead means one point of contact
during an outbreak. “It streamlines the communication with one person to talk to. There are very close conversations between our infectious disease staff and their IPAC leads. It ensures consistent communication for sure.” The Woodstock Hospital is feeling the effects of the flu season and took to social media recently to let potential patients know a visit to the Emergency Department (ED) could result in longer-than-normal wait times. “Many patients who require admission are waiting for inpatient beds. As a result, they remain in an ED bed until an inpatient bed is available on the unit. This limits space in the ED and can contribute to longer waits,” said a hospital Facebook post. The hospital’s communications manager provided a statement to the Gazette on Tuesday, which said several patients requiring admission are waiting for inpatient beds. “As a result, they remain in an ED bed until a bed becomes available on an inpatient unit. This reduces space in the ED and may contribute to longer waits. This is often referred to as an ED hold or no bed admit,” said hospital communications and
public relations officer Chelsea Fagan. Many people are arriving at Woodstock Hospital with significant flu-related symptoms such as fever, respiratory issues, dehydration and complications such as pneumonia, which often require admission. Fagan added hospitals across the province have surge plans to deal with an increased number of patients. “Hospitals have additional beds on inpatient units, known as overflow beds, that we are currently using. In addition, as part of surge planning, we have also turned some of our private rooms into double occupancy rooms. While we understand this isn’t ideal, it is sometimes necessary to provide care for the number of patients requiring admission, and to move patients out of the emergency department as efficiently as possible.” Fagan explained Woodstock Hospital also has internal dashboards developed by its IT department for clinical teams to receive real-time updates on patient status, unit capacity and flow indicators. “These tools support timely decision-making and help promote smoother transitions of care throughout the hospital.”
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Wellesley Fall Fair ambassador launches Barnyard Buddies youth farm safety program
Claire Koch looking to spread awareness of farm and rural hazards among elementary students GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Claire Koch, the Wellesley Fall Fair ambassador for 2025-2026, is using her platform as a representative of the Wellesley North Easthope Agriculture Society to help spread farm and rural safety messaging to elementary students through her new Barnyard Buddies program. Launched at the end of 2025 with a presentation and hands-on activities for students at Wellesley Public School on Dec. 16, 2025, the children’s farm safety program focuses on spreading awareness about the dangers associated with agriculture, specifically large equipment, large animals and water/ice safety. “My parents, they really reiterated farm safety just because we live on a dairy farm, so that was always important to them,” Koch told the Gazette. “They would always take me to the farm-safety days that were hosted by the Waterloo Rural Women
… and then as soon as I was old enough, I started volunteering at them. I just became really passionate about the topic because I think it is something that isn’t really talked about enough, even for kids in town. I really do believe farm safety applies to everyone.” While kids who live in rural areas of Wellesley and other local townships may not necessarily live on a farm, Koch says there are plenty of farm-related or rural dangers they need to be aware of, from sprayers and combines on the roads to large horses tied up at local businesses by David Martin Mennonites. In addition, the township is rich with ponds, pools, streams and rivers many kids use for swimming, fishing and skating, all of which come their own dangers. Through the Barnyard Buddies program, Koch has the opportunity, with the help of community partners, to deliver safety messaging around each of the most prominent potential dangers facing rural children in a
fun and engaging way, while encouraging them to continue those discussions with their parents and other family members at home. “On Dec. 16, we had about 110 kids in the Wellesley Public School gym – so I think there were five classes and they were all in grades three and four,” Koch said. “It started with a 30-minute presentation and I talked for 10 minutes about large-animal safety, 10 minutes about water and ice safety, and then 10 minutes about large-equipment safety. I had a bunch of awesome volunteers there and we rotated the kids through five stations. “The one station was a cow obstacle course that helped kids experience how large animals’ vision is impaired compared to humans’ sight, and then we did a “spot the hazard” activity where kids looked at unsafe scenarios and they thought of ways they could avoid that hazard, and then we did a “large equipment blind spot” station where the kids sat in little tyke cars and
their classmates placed elephant-skin balls around the vehicles and explored how that would be a major blind spot for a big piece of equipment.” With another Barnyard Buddies program set for students at North Easthope Public School on Jan. 9 and more to come, Koch said she hopes to gain enough traction with Wellesley township schools to eventually expand the program into Wilmot and other local townships, all in the name of keeping kids safe around farms and in their rural communities. The program, Koch said, wouldn’t be possible without the funding and support of Jones Feedmill, Wellesley Home Hardware, Leis Feed & Supply, and Jantzi Plumbing. To inquire about scheduling a Barnyard Buddies program at a local school or to support the program, email Koch at claire. lovescows7@gmail.com.
Pictured from left to right are Bethany Koch, Launa Seiling, Joel Koch, Liam McAuley, Isaiah Wight, Claire Koch, Rosey Verwer, Alexa Minten, Sophia Brenner, Chloe Scott and Anne Koch, all of whom lent a hand during the Barnyard Buddies program at Wellesley Public School Dec. 16, 2025.
(WENDY RICHARDSON PHOTOS)
Wellesley Public School students listen intently as Wellesley Fall Fair Ambassador Claire Koch shares farm and rural safety messaging as part of her new Barnyard Buddies program Dec. 16, 2025.
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The Barnyard Buddies farm and rural safety program was set up for students at Wellesley Public School on Dec. 16, 2025.
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
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Enbridge Gas Ontario assists Township of Wellesley Fire Rescue in supporting firefighter training WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF thewtgazette@gmail.com
Enbridge Gas is helping Township of Wellesley Fire Rescue purchase firefighting training materials through the Safe Community Project Assist, a program with the Fire Marshal’s Public Fire Safety Council (FMPFSC) that supplements existing training for Ontario volunteer and composite fire departments in the communities where Enbridge Gas operates. This year’s $125,000 investment from Enbridge Gas will be shared by 25 Ontario fire departments, including Township of Wellesley Fire Rescue. Funds are used to purchase educational materials to assist in training firefighters in life-saving techniques. “Safety is at the heart of everything we do at Enbridge Gas – it’s one of our core values we live by,” said Enbridge Gas municipal and stakeholder engagement senior advisor Julie Alexander in a press release. “We’re proud to support Ontario firefighters with emergency response training that helps them strengthen their skills, stay prepared and continue protecting the vibrant communities they serve.” Since the launch of Safe Community Project Assist in 2012, 394 grants have been provided to Ontario fire departments for additional firefighter training. “Fire departments across Ontario train every single day and that is why it is important for them to have access to the
right materials to keep their members and the public safe. Safe Community Project Assist helps departments afford these essential training tools and supports the ongoing learning that keeps the fire service safe,” added Jon Pegg, Ontario Fire Marshal and Chair of the FMPFSC. “This support from Enbridge allows us to invest directly in the education of our firefighters. By purchasing specialized training materials, we are better equipping our team with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively serve our community,” said Wellesley Fire Chief Paul Redman. The Township of Wellesley Fire Rescue is a composite department made up of a full-time fire chief, a full-time fire and rescue service administrator and 65 volunteer firefighters. The department serves a population of approximately 11,500 residents from three fire stations and operates 10 frontline fire apparatus. The FMPFSC was established in 1993 with a mission to help create “a world where no one is hurt by fire.” Chaired by the Ontario Fire Marshal, the FMPFSC promotes fire prevention and public education through sponsorships and partnerships with various groups and individuals with an interest in public safety. Enbridge Gas Ontario is Canada’s largest natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company based in Ontario. With more than 175 years of service, it delivers safe, affordable, reliable energy to over four million customers.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY)
Pictured from left to right are Wellesley CAO Rik Louwagie, Enbridge senior advisor of municipal and stakeholder engagement Julie Alexander, Wellesley Fire Chief Paul Redman, and Wellesley Mayor Joe Nowak.
Concerns raised over conservation authority amalgamation in Wilmot Township AMANDA NELSON Gazette Reporter
Ongoing concerns about the proposed amalgamation of conservation authorities were raised at Wilmot council’s December meeting. Council discussed correspondence from local resident Dorothy Wilson, who cited recent provincial actions related to conservation authorities and reports of low water supplies in the Region of Waterloo. “The latest actions from the Ontario government regarding the conservation authorities, and the recent news from the Region of Waterloo about low water supplies, have heightened concern about the availability of clean water for residents of this region and beyond,” Wilson wrote. The letter sparked discussion among council members and Mayor Natasha Salonen about how the proposed amalgamation could affect local autonomy and the township’s ability to focus on waterways and environmental issues. “I worry that we’re not going to
have the same local authority or the same local interest in the waterways in our area with such a large group at the same time,” said Coun. Steven Martin. “I’m not trying to start a fight with the province, and I realize that changes can sometimes be positive and bring about good things, but it raises worries and concerns for me.” Bill 68 includes amendments to the Conservation Authorities Act that create an Ontario Provincial Conservation Agency (OPCA) to provide provincial oversight. The legislation is accompanied by a provincial proposal to merge Ontario’s 36 conservation authorities into seven regional authorities, a process that remains under consultation. “This change will undermine the ability of the authorities to carry out their important work of protecting people and property from flooding and other natural hazards and conserving natural resources, including lakes, rivers, streams and groundwater,” Wilson wrote. She also noted that conservation authorities play a key role in regulating
development by issuing permits that help minimize flood risk and protect water sources and property. Coun. Kris Wilkinson raised concerns about the timing of the proposed changes, given recent reports related to water supply, which he noted is primarily a regional responsibility. He asked whether the township could study and publicly share information about local wells and potential protection areas. “I urge you to move a motion to oppose the amalgamation of the conservation authorities so that they can continue to do their job of protecting people and property and conserving natural resources,” Wilson wrote. Salonen noted that the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), which represents municipal governments across the province, has raised concerns about the potential impacts of conservation authority consolidation on local decision-making and costs. She said AMO has submitted an official policy response outlining those concerns to the province.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Wellesley’s Ella Jones earns junior championship trophy at Tavistock Fall Fair GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Ella Jones of the Wellesley area has once again claimed the Laura Masters Hansuld Award, presented annually to the top point earner in the Junior Division at the Tavistock Fall Fair. The honour recognizes outstanding participation and achievement among exhibitors aged 10 to 18, and Jones’ name has become a familiar one on the trophy. The award is named in memory of Laura Masters Hansuld, whose remarkable legacy in Waterloo and East Zorra-Tavistock continues to inspire young fair exhibitors today. Born and raised on a farm in Waterloo Region, Hansuld taught school before moving to Chicago, where she became head nurse at a major hospital. She later served as a Red Cross nurse in the U.S. Army. In 1926, she married Edmund Hansuld and moved to East Zorra, where her
interests turned to farming, homemaking and community leadership. She played a pivotal role in organizing rural women, founding the district’s first Women’s Institute group and serving as its inaugural president. She chose the name Anna P. Lewis Institute in honour of Anna Lewis, superintendent of Women’s Institutes for Ontario from 1945-1955. Hansuld was known for her deep knowledge of institute work and her ability to guide members through any challenge. She also formed the first Marigold Club to spark young girls’ interest in gardening – an initiative that helped inspire future youth programs in cooking, sewing, gardening and eventually 4-H. After Hansuld’s passing in 1961, a memorial donation from Burns Church led the group to establish a fund in her name. From that fund came the large trophy now awarded each year to the Junior Division’s top exhibitor at the Tavistock Fall Fair. The Tavistock Agricultural Society also
Members of the Anna P. Lewis Women’s Institute following their dinner at Quehl’s Restaurant. From left: Mary Alice Roth, Jo Ann Porter, Carol McLeod, Jean Porter, Ella Jones (trophy recipient), her mother, Beth Jones, Chris Wiffen, Kaye Bickle, Irene Baker and Mieke Peters.
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presents the winner with a personal keepsake gift each year. This year, Jones received an autumn ceramic figurine along with her name engraved once more on the Hansuld Memorial Trophy. Jones said she looks forward to the fair every year and enjoys entering as many divisions as she can.
“I get excited when the prize list comes out and I can see all the entries I might be able to participate in,” she said. She encourages other local youth to get involved as well, noting the friendly competition gives everyone something to look forward to during the annual fall celebration.
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Tavistock Agricultural Society director Chris Wiffen presents the Laura Masters Hansuld Memorial Trophy to Ella Jones of Wellesley, awarded for earning the most points in the Junior Division at the 2025 Tavistock Fall Fair.
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Wellesley council approves draft 2026 budget in principle
Council approves 2026 levy increase of just 3.49 per cent, inclusive of growth with Watson (& Associates Economist Ltd.) and mapped a lot of the analysis (they) prepared (for the asset management plan). So, I went account by account, tried to understand where (their) numbers were coming from, and what we were able to do is identify in the analysis (they) hadn’t picked up one of our reserve contributions as a capital-reserve contribution. It was classified as an operating reserve contribution. “So, when I now take that reserve contribution and reclassify it as a capital, we are now over-contributing to our reserves if we were to follow the asset management plan.” Dyck explained the misclassified reserve contribution in question is based on how much the township will receive in gravel royalties in 2026 since 100 per cent of that money will be transferred to the township’s infrastructure reserve. While Dyck told councillors staff budgeted $125,000 in revenue from gravel royalties in the 2026 budget, that number is an estimate, but it does allow council to reduce its contributions to reserves by a maximum of that amount while still
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Wellesley residents will see the township portion of their property tax bill increase by just under 3.5 per cent, which includes a 0.5 per-cent greening levy, after township council tentatively approved the township’s 2026 draft budget just before the holiday break. Meeting for its final budget deliberation of the year on Dec. 18, 2025, council was presented two last-minute changes to the draft budget. The first was a $30,000 increase to the operating budget to account for staff benefits being underbudgeted in previous iterations of the draft budget, and the other was an opportunity for council to reduce the township’s proposed contributions to reserves in 2026, which was originally set at $629,000 to help pay off the township’s 10-year capital infrastructure funding gap, by as much as $125,000. “We heard council loud and clear over the last two meetings and we undertook a comprehensive review of the budget with a focus on the asset management plan,” township director of corporate services Jeff Dyck said. “Over the past week, I met
closing the township’s infrastructure funding gap in 10 years – though he noted annual adjustments to the plan may be necessary to keep it on track, especially if gravel royalties come in lower than expected this year. While the two changes to the draft budget reduced the proposed levy increase to 3.8 per cent from the original 4.99 per cent proposed at council’s first budget meeting at the end of November, councillors opted to further reduce the impact on taxpayers by allocating an additional $25,500 from the township’s levy-stabilization reserve – roughly $257,000 from which had already been allocated to the 2026 draft budget, leaving a balance of roughly $500,000 – bringing the levy increase down to 3.49 per cent. For a home assessed by the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) in 2016 at the township’s average assessed value of $416,000, the 3.49 per-cent levy increase will equate to an annual increase to township property taxes by nearly $43 or $3.57 monthly. “However much above or below a house is assessed at, that’s how much you would
sway from that $43 (increase),” township CAO Rik Louwagie clarified. While council discussed the potential for increasing the 0.5 per-cent greening levy back to 0.75 per cent to help the township meet it’s greenhouse gas reduction targets, as well as reducing the proposed non-unionized staff wage increase from 3.2 per cent to further alleviate the tax burden on ratepayers, neither budget amendment made it to the table for a vote. The township administers tax bills sent to residents that include tax levies collected for the Township of Wellesley, Region of Waterloo and school boards (education tax). The breakdown of these levies on residents’ annual tax bills is approximately as follows: • Township of Wellesley: 31 per cent • Region of Waterloo: 56 per cent • School board: 13 per cent The Township of Wellesley’s levy increase applies to the township levy only. Regional levy increases are not included in the township’s draft budget. Wellesley council will consider approval of the 2026 budget bylaw at its Jan. 13 meeting.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
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New Hamburg Legion continues search for families of local veterans Focus for 13th volume of military service recognition book is on First World War veterans GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Bob Berg, the New Hamburg Legion’s military service recognition book (MSRB) coordinator, has his work cut out for him in the first few months of the new year as he continues his search for family members of local veterans, focusing his efforts this time on locals who served in the First World War. As he does every year, Berg is preparing his submissions for the next volume of the Royal Canadian Legion Ontario Command Military Service Recognition Book – this year’s is the 13th volume. To do that, Berg is looking for details about the lives of veterans from the townships of Wilmot, Wellesley, East Zorra-Tavistock, Blandford-Blenheim and surrounding areas beyond what is available in their military service records online. “There is no context, by going through all the information you can find in obituaries, Find A Grave and things like that because they slip through the cracks,” Berg said of his research into local WWI veterans. “Even if you find a name, when you go to phone them, there’s a whole lot of people with the same first initial and last name in the phone book. “ … In most of the cases, I’ve gone through three generations and then you start trying to get into contact with great grandchildren; some grandchildren don’t know anything about these veterans’ lives.” Thanks to his previous efforts and callouts in this newspaper, Berg has found family members for three of the First World War veterans whose names are memorialized on the New Hamburg
Cenotaph, but he’s hoping to find more details about the rest. By making contact with family members, Berg is hoping they are willing to share the stories of their veteran ancestors to help Berg craft a military biography, share heartwarming stories and add a personal touch with photos of their veteran family members for publication. Berg also requires a veteran or their family’s permission to publish a veteran’s photo and biography in the MSRB. If no family member can be found, permission can be given by the Legion branch president to have a veteran’s name and photo published in the book. While Berg is focusing his efforts on First World War veterans, he is more than willing to accept biographies and photos of local veterans, or those with a connection to the local area, who served in the Second World War or during the Cold War for inclusion in the MSRB. Specifically, Berg is looking for family members of the following veterans: World War I War dead memorialized on the New Hamburg Cenotaph • Pte. Elgin Earl Eby: Born Nov. 18, 1895, in Berlin, Ont. • Pte. Herbert Edward Erbach: Born April 12, 1890, in Wilmot Township • Gunner Alvin Jacob Forler: Born Jan. 6, 1895, in Philipsburg • Pte. Robert Goebel: Born Oct. 30, 1894, in New Hamburg • Pte. Wilfred Cecil Laschinger: Born March 17, 1897, in New Hamburg • Pte. Ivan Bernard Marty: Born April 12, 1897, in New Hamburg • Pte. Henry Lorne McFadyen: Born March 16, 1894, in Baden • Pte. Albert Edward Merner: Born
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June 20, 1897, in New Hamburg Pte. Walter William Perry: Born Sept. 23, 1884, in Haysville • Pte. George Camel Schmitt: Born March 17, 1894, in Baden • Pte. Theodore Schuler: Born Nov. 12, 1889, in New Hamburg • Lt./Cpl. Leslie Ernest Sheppard: Born July 12, 1889, in Haysville • Pte. John Spahr: Born Jan. 5, 1884, in New Hamburg • Pte. Nathaniel Stier: Born July 3, 1892, in New Hamburg • Lt. Russell Williams: Born Feb. 16, 1892, in New Hamburg • Pte. Charles Yonge: Born April 2, 1887, in Milverton Local WWI veterans • Pte. Douglas Edward Bristow: Born Sept. 8, 1897, in Bright • Pte. Clifford Brown: Born July 19, 1898, in Ratho • Pte. Harry Frank Clayton: Born Dec. 3, 1895, in New Hamburg • Pte. Elmer Arthur Dahmer: Born Dec. 21, 1898, in North Easthope • Pte. Fred James Dedman: Born March 19, 1889, in Ayr • Lionel Albert Dedman: Born March 14, 1895, in New Dundee • Pte. Oliver Dedman: Born July 15, 1889, in Ayr • William James Dedman: Born Sept. 10, 1895, in Ayr • Pte. Roy Charles Ellis: Born June 4, 1896, in Hickson • Pte. David George Foreman: Born April 4, 1898, in Bright • Pte. Frank McKie: Born April 18, 1895, in Bright • Pte. Gordon Henry Stauffer: Born June 11, 1889, in Chesterfield •
•
Pte. Frederick Walter Veitch: Born April 26, 1892, in Plattsville • Pte. Harold John Wiese: Born March 13, 1894, in New Hamburg • Pte. Theodore Frederick Wiese: Born Oct. 4, 1897, in New Hamburg • Pte. Benjamin Wright: Born Sept. 3, 1894, in Drumbo World War II War dead memorialized on the New Hamburg Cenotaph • Capt. Nile Harold Bier: Born April 22, 1918, in New Hamburg • Lt./Cpl. Samuel Wallace Foster: Born May 11, 1918, in Baden • Flight Lt. Robert Wayne Honderich: Born June 22, 1921, in Baden • Flying Officer Charles Woodrow Hostetler: Born Oct. 9, 1916, in Baden • Cpl. Donald James Milne: Born June 20, 1915, in Petersburg • Warrant Officer Class II John Kerr Ross: Born June 26, 1915, in New Hamburg • Pilot Officer Russell Arthur Saltzberry: Born Feb. 24, 1920, in New Dundee • Pte. John Henry Stiefelmeyer: Born Jan. 28, 1923, in Baden Local WW2 veterans • Clarence Edward Ditner • Helen Elizabeth Ditner (Robertson) • Stewart Douglas Robertson • Sidney Cheeseman Families interested in submitting a veteran’s name or sharing their story are encouraged to contact Berg at rwbergy@ gmail.com or 519-745-0212 for more information.
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Breakfast with Santa brings holiday cheer to the community DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
The Optimist Club of Petersburg hosted its annual Breakfast with Santa Claus on Saturday, Dec. 13, bringing holiday cheer to local families. The event was held at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Petersburg. The club would like to thank the church for generously providing space for this special event. Thirty-nine children visited Santa and delivered letters filled with Christmas wishes. Children, parents and grandparents
enjoyed a delicious breakfast and created festive holiday crafts together. The event also supported those in need, with generous donations totaling 150 pounds of food and $75 in cash collected for the Wilmot and Wellesley Resource Centre. The Optimist Club continued its Christmas tradition of Breakfast with Santa by putting its “Friend of the Youth” motto into action. Local families enjoyed breakfast and the event also raised funds to support individuals and families in need, making it a memorable holiday celebration for the community.
Children enjoyed breakfast, crafts and a visit with Santa at the annual Optimist event.
Thursday, January 8, 2026 11
(WARREN BECHTHOLD PHOTOS)
Santa’s helpers from left to right: John Gutscher, Mike Taylor, Pete Speek, Danny Cinarlili, Stacey Salmon, Al McIsaac, Victoria Salmon and JP Arnold.
Children dressed in festive sweaters and celebrated the season with Santa.
Holiday activities in Milverton highlight festive spirit GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Christmas celebrations may be winding down, but Milverton residents are still enjoying memories from a colourful and successful holiday parade. The event brought crowds to the streets and filled the Perth
East Recreation Complex with families eager to take part in seasonal activities. Community groups, local businesses and parade royalty helped make the day a bright spot in the holiday season, while residents gathered to share in the traditions that bring Milverton together each December. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Snips Salon and Spa was well represented at the parade. From left are Ann Marie Ryter (owner), this year’s Santa, Kelli Marshall and Diane Hergott.
Following the parade, Milverton’s “Fair Royalty” gathered at the Perth East Recreation Complex. From left are Little Mister Jake Woodrow, Sweetheart of the Fair Evelynne Streicher, Santa Claus, Mini Ambassador Max Mueller, Junior Ambassador Dayna Egli and Fair Ambassador Elisha MacGregor.
Members of Burns Presbyterian Church entered a float reflecting the “Reason for the Season,” highlighting the Christian message at the heart of Christmas.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
David Carson keeps beef auctions thriving at Milverton sales barn GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
The name David Carson has been familiar to livestock farmers across Perth County and beyond for decades. Whether it involved cattle, horses, farm machinery or charity events, if an auctioneer was needed, Carson was the one people called. Though he never finished high school,
those who know him say his business sense was sharp from the start. His father, Albert, was a successful businessman, and a young Carson quickly learned how to buy and sell anything that might earn a small profit. Farmers often remark on his quick mental math and uncanny memory, qualities that helped define his long career. Carson purchased his first farm at age 19 Continued on page 13
Perth County’s Dave Eidt, left, joins longtime sales manager and auctioneer Dave Carson to discuss the strong beef market. Prices, they noted, are among the highest seen in years.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2026
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Beef cows and calves sold at Park’s Livestock Sales Barn in late December, drawing a capacity crowd of local farmers. Many longtime customers of Carson’s Auctions were pleased to have his help selling their herds or surplus cattle through the Milverton facility.
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Continued from page 12
for $25,000. His father held the mortgage until he turned 21 and could legally take ownership. After attending auctioneering school, he developed a style that set him apart – a fast-talking auctioneer with a knack for slipping in one-liners that kept crowds smiling. His humour, paired with a reputation for fairness, made him one of the region’s most trusted sellers. After six decades in the auction and dairy business east of Listowel, Carson officially retired. But retirement hasn’t kept him out of the sale ring. Today, he continues to support beef farmers by helping manage beef auctions at the Milverton Community Sales Barn, now operated by Park’s Livestock. Carson says he wants to remain committed to the farmers who supported his Listowel sales for so many years. “I want to help my local beef-farmer friends continue selling their animals at auction,” he said. “At the same time, it helps promote Park’s Livestock Sales Barn as a great facility for bringing buyers and sellers together in Milverton.” The Milverton barn has a long-standing place in the area’s agricultural community, including its weekly Monday calf sales, which have served local farmers for generations.
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Veteran auctioneer Bill Halstra handled part of the auctioneering duties at the recent beef sale. Halstra has worked alongside Carson for years and also auctions at the Ontario Livestock Exchange in Waterloo.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Waterloo County 4-H team shines at the Royal Winter Fair GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
The Waterloo County 4-H Dairy Classic Team returned from the 103rd Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto with strong results and memories they say will last a lifetime. Members spent the summer and fall competing at major fairs and exhibitions, gaining skills as their projects grew and benefiting from the guidance of experienced 4-H leaders. Among those leaders was longtime volunteer Val Jones who, along with her husband, Shane, helped mentor the team. Their three sons previously showed dairy heifers at the Royal and today remain active in Waterloo Region agriculture. Jones, who served as a parent chaperone at this year’s Classic, said she could not be more proud of the team’s efforts. “The Waterloo County leaders couldn’t be happier for the members who competed this year,” she said. This year’s results included: • Donny Martin – 1st Senior Showman; 4th Junior Yearling
Calf (conformation) Devin Martin – 5th Intermediate Showman • Aiden VanBergeijk – 12th Summer Yearling • Colton Martin – 14th Senior Calf • Thomas Metzger – 21st Intermediate Calf • Aaron Henhoffer – 25th Senior Showman; 18th with his calf • Kelly Stere – 9th Senior Calf With nearly 350 4-H members from across Canada competing, Waterloo Region placed 5th with their group of three calves and finished 10th in the best barn exhibit competition. Local leaders continue to guide 4-H members from age 10 to 21 and often follow their careers long after they age out of the program. Many alumni go on to contribute to agriculture in Waterloo Region and beyond. The Waterloo County Dairy Classic members at the 2025 Royal included Kaila VanBergeijk, Aiden VanBergeijk, Kelly Stere, Thomas Metzger, Devin Martin, Colton Martin, Aaron Henhoffer, Donny •
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Five Waterloo County 4-H Dairy Classic members who competed at the 2025 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in T:10.25" Toronto. From left are AJ Martin, Donovan Martin, Aiden VanBergeijk, Colton Martin and Aaron Henhoeffer.
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Garden Wilmot to host talk on carnivorous plants CHRYSTINA MCNEIL Garden Wilmot
Did you know carnivorous plants can be found on every continent except Antarctica? In fact, we have 20 species native to Canada, including one species of pitcher plant, and several species of sundews, butterworts and bladderworts. These plants use a variety of methods to lure, trap and digest small insects, spiders, or anything small enough to fall in. Young salamanders have even been found in pitcher plants. Pitcher plants use a pitfall trap – a cavity filled with a liquid soup of bio-organisms and enzymes that dissolve whatever prey falls in. Sundews and butterworts use sticky tentacles and leaves that have a thick gelatinous substance that attracts, traps and digests passing insects. Bladderworts are aquatic plants that use sensory hairs and a trapdoor method to catch their prey. Carnivorous plants are found in wet, nutrient-poor areas such as acidic bogs, fens and rocky outcrops with
little soil, and use special enzymes to digest invertebrates to absorb essential nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Because carnivorous plants require extremely specific environments to survive, habitat loss and climate change have the potential to wipe out entire species. Wetland preserves, like Schout’s Wetlands, are pivotal to these plants. Keep your eyes out; you might be able to find some there! To learn more about these fascinating plants and how you can keep them in your house or pond, join Garden Wilmot on Monday, Jan. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Wilmot Recreation Complex, Room A, for a talk by Meadow Acre’s Julie Baker. My love affair with carnivorous plants started with one lonely sundew in an attempt to control farmhouse flies. Now I have a collection of over five different, native and non-native, species. Be careful! Once you start leafing through the world of carnivorous plants, you might just find yourself stuck in their clutches.
Thursday, January 8, 2026 15
Customer TESTIMONIAL
Ian McKie Chair of Leadership and Training, New Hamburg Legion
“We want to thank you for the great ad! We had 70 people show up, almost capacity! The seminar was great. Dave Clark, our WRPS officer, knew his stuff! Took us through lots of issues and examples; plus he answered many great questions. Thank you! This has hopefully helped a lot of people avoid the devastation of fraud.” (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Garden Wilmot will host a talk about carnivorous plants at the Wilmot Recreation Complex Jan. 12 beginning at 7 p.m.
To advertise with us, contact Heather Dunbar at 226.261.1837 or heather@granthaven.com
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Perth County’s forest conservation bylaw draws strong turnout in Milverton GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
A large crowd of Perth County farmers and rural landowners packed into the Perth East Recreation Complex in Milverton in December to learn more about the county’s proposed changes to its forest conservation bylaw. Despite stormy weather, interest was high and the audience remained respectful and engaged throughout the evening. The open house included presentations from forestry inspector Marvin Smith, legislative services manager and clerk Tyler Sager, and county lawyer and prosecutor Darrell Hawreliak. Attendees later raised questions and concerns about how the proposed changes could affect farm operations, property rights and forestry practices. Among the key issues brought forward: • concern about windbreaks being included within the scope of the bylaw • a request that the definition of a woodlot be aligned with provincial standards • clarification that a bylaw officer cannot enter private property without notice or permission • worries that landowners may stop planting trees if regulations feel too restrictive • a call for a different structure for the appeals committee
Perth County Warden Dean Trentowsky said there is no predetermined completion date for the review process. “Any suggestion that the bylaw will be finished in 2026 is speculation,” he said. All comments from the Milverton open house will be compiled by staff and brought to county council for discussion at a special meeting on Thursday, Feb. 12 at 9 a.m. Trentowsky added that residents who did not attend the meeting are still encouraged to submit written comments or questions, which will also form part of the staff report. Roger and Elaine Cook of North Easthope Township, longtime stewards of their 200-acre farm where roughly 25 per cent is forested, attended the open house and appreciated the clarifications offered. Many people, they felt, arrived believing the proposed bylaw would restrict tree planting or prevent landowners from managing their woodlots. “There seemed to be a misconception that pruning wasn’t allowed,” Elaine Cook said. Smith clarified that pruning is permitted and encouraged and noted that a single-row windbreak would “almost never” fall under the bylaw. He emphasized the importance of ongoing management, a point the Cooks strongly support. Roger Cook said most of their forest work takes place in winter and focuses
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
A view of one of Roger and Elaine Cook’s well-maintained evergreen windbreaks in North Easthope. Roger Cook says they keep them neatly trimmed with help from neighbour Bruce Neeb, who uses a tree-trimming telehandler and GreenTec quad saw.
on improving tree quality, promoting vigorous hardwood growth and maintaining kilometres of trails for recreation and harvesting. Their home and workshop are heated with firewood from their managed woodlot. The Cooks believe a well-crafted conservation bylaw can help ensure healthy, productive forests across Perth County for generations. They also praised local farmers Gerald Kolkman of Monkton and Henry Koskamp of Avonton for their detailed, revised recommendations on the bylaw. Following the bylaw discussion, county resilience and stewardship coordinator Hannah Cann presented updates on the Perth County Land Stewardship Program,
now in its second year. She highlighted several accomplishments: • 20,584 trees planted • 31.234 kilometres of new strategic windbreaks • 38.85 acres of degraded or marginal land reforested The program has received strong support from neighbouring counties and local applicants, who see value in expanding stewardship initiatives, including cover crop projects. The stewardship program is accepting applications for spring 2026 tree planting and forest-management projects until Jan. 30, 2026. Details are available at perthcounty.ca/stewardship or by emailing hcann@perthcounty.ca.
Roger and Elaine Cook of North Easthope look out from their dining room toward one of the many managed woodlots on their farm. The couple take great pride in the forests they have nurtured over decades.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026 17
Fred Krug: An early Tavistock entrepreneur who shaped a growing community GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Tavistock has been home to many pioneering business owners whose efforts helped build the community residents know today. Among the most influential was Fred Krug, founder of the Glasgow Warehouse and one of the town’s earliest and most successful mercantile entrepreneurs. Thanks to historical records published by the Tavistock Mail in September 1979 and material preserved through Ken at The Maples Home For Seniors, the story of Krug’s remarkable life continues to shine. Krug was born in Gartaw, Hanover Province, Germany, in 1843. Like many immigrant families of the era, the Krugs faced the hardships of pioneer life after
settling in Berlin, Ont. – known today as Kitchener. His formal schooling was brief. By his early teens, he was working at the Bauernfreund newspaper in Waterloo, learning the trade under editor Jacob Teuscher. The apprenticeship was demanding. Krug wrote, edited and delivered the paper, often on horseback, navigating rough roads and winter storms to reach rural subscribers. The experience built his physical endurance and shaped the discipline and work ethic that defined his later business success. In January 1860, Krug left the printing trade and moved to Tavistock – then called Inkerman – where he worked as a clerk in Jacob Wagner’s log store. A decade later, in 1870, he struck out on his own. Two
years after that, he formed a partnership with Adam Falk, operating a growing general store until 1884, when Krug assumed full ownership. From that point forward, the Glasgow Warehouse became one of Western Ontario’s most prominent mercantile operations, employing 20 people at its height. Krug personally guided the business as it expanded into a modern department store with separate, well-stocked divisions – each run as if it were its own enterprise. A shrewd buyer, Krug was known as one of the region’s largest importers. He paid cash for major shipments to secure substantial discounts, which he passed on to customers. He purchased sugar by the carload and imported raw Rio coffee directly from Brazil, roasting and selling it locally.
His approach earned both loyalty and admiration from rural residents who relied on the store for quality goods at fair prices. Krug’s influence reached beyond business. In 1885, he was appointed Tavistock’s postmaster and later constructed a handsome commercial block that housed the Western Bank of Canada and the post office. He remained actively involved in municipal affairs, supporting improvements and community development throughout the late 1800s. His contribution to the town’s early economic and civic growth cannot be overstated. Tavistock’s emergence as a thriving rural community owes much to entrepreneurs like Krug, whose vision, hard work and commitment to service shaped its foundation.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Black ice ditches transport truck near Shakespeare
Factory Trained Technicians ~ Accessories ~ Service to all Makes
Shrink Wrap & Winter Storage ~ In House Financing
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
A southbound transport truck slid into the ditch on Perth Road 107 north of Shakespeare last week after the driver hit a patch of black ice around 9 a.m. The loaded trailer came to rest about 25 feet short of the front door of Jim and Shelly Meyers’ home. County crews closed the road for the remainder of the morning while tow operators recovered the vehicle.
OBITUARY
CARD OF THANKS
Ronald James Illes
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ronald James Illes. Ron was a father, brother, uncle, and friend who passed away peacefully on December 22, 2025. Born on September 22, 1955, in Brantford, Ontario, to William (Bill) and Esther Illes (née Haun), Ron was a mechanic, business owner, hard worker, and, most of all,
a loving father. Ron was predeceased by his father, Bill (2001); his mother, Esther (2018); and his brother, Gord (2005). He is survived by his son, Dan Illes (Frances Sarmiento); his daughter, Chantel Illes; his sister, Brenda Schroder (Jeff); his nephew, John Schlieman (Carly); and his niece, Julia Schlieman. Growing up on the family tobacco farm near Innerkip, Ontario, Ron quickly learned the value of hard work. He went on to become a mechanic and spent most of his career as a transmission mechanic. Ron will always be closely tied to the Mister Transmission brand, as he owned and operated three different locations over the years. Ron always had an affinity for cars and motorcycles. Later in life, he acquired a number of HarleyDavidsons, his favourite motorcycles. He spent numerous hours over the years working on the various houses he lived in, including a 50-acre farm located in Tavistock. We would like to extend a special thank you to Forest Heights Long-Term Care Home in Kitchener. Ron was well cared for and became friends with numerous staff members over the years who treated him wonderfully. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Tavistock Legion, 223 Hope St. West, Tavistock, ON. Anyone who knew Ron or his family is welcome to attend for drinks and a bite to eat. Ron will live on through the friends and family who held him dear, through the lessons he taught us, and the love he shared. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation are gratefully appreciated.
The family of the late Mildred Lichti wish to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to all relatives, friends and neighbours for their many acts of kindness, floral tributes and memorial donations. Thanks to the staff at The Maples Retirement Home for making her last two years extra special, she loved her time there! Thanks to Pastor Julie Ellison White for your guidance and prayers. To all the women and men of the Tavistock Mennonite Church who helped with the funeral service and refreshments, your work and support was very much appreciated. Thanks to Jeff Glendinning & his amazing staff for their compassion and care during this tough time. Beautiful memories our Mom, Millie left us all, she will be missed.
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Sorry For Your Loss
by PeterS 2025
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026 19
The Old Gazettes By Sydney Grant Slowly but surely, I’m reading through the past pages of the Tavistock Gazette (est. 1895). Within this weekly column I’d like to share with you some of my findings. January 6-13, 2021, Edition (5 years ago) The Ontario government delayed the return to in-person classes for 2021 as a result of the rise in record numbers of COVID-19 cases following the Christmas break. Students began online learning Jan. 4 and were expected to return to class on Jan. 11 if the numbers were declining or plateaued, however, the impact of the pandemic has forced officials to delay the return to school until at least Monday, Jan. 25. Officials are also concerned about a new COVID variant from the United Kingdom and are working to collect more data. Grace United Church in Tavistock has hired a new minister to take over from retiring Rev. Mary Stewart on March 1, 2021. Reverend Gail Fricker comes to Grace Church with four years experience at Knox United Church in Ayr, where she served as a full-time student minister and was responsible for planning and leading all aspects of worship. Employees of ERTH Corporation were in the village on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 21 and 22, 2021, to prepare the underground wiring for the new Electric Vehicle Charging Station in front of the Tavistock Memorial Hall. Crews returned on Dec. 29 to connect the wiring from the transformer to the station and install the dual-port charging port tower. January 5-12, 2011, Edition (15 years ago) Tavistock’s old public library is getting a new life in the new year. The building, envisioned in 1914, built in 1916 and opened to the public on March 15, 1917, has deteriorated over the years. It was abandoned by the Oxford County Library in August of 2010 when a new space was opened on the main floor of the Oxford Hotel. The Carnegie Public Library and PUC shed located behind the property on Maria Street were sold by the Township of East-Zorra Tavistock last October for $10,000 to Dave and Kim Piggott. Work has begun on gutting the old Library to make way for a new project. On Jan. 15, 2011, 23 people will embark on a mission trip to Bolivia as a team from Living Water Community Christian Fellowship Church in New Hamburg. Several of the team members are from Tavistock with others residing in New Hamburg and the surrounding communities of Wellesley and Kitchener, and one member from Brampton. It
will be a two-week adventure they have been planning for the past year. Some of the team members, Barry, Denise and Aimee Bender, had been to Bolivia on a mission trip two years ago. After enthusiastically sharing their stories at church, many members of Living Water became excited about missions and pledged their support in many ways. One way was to send a team there to minister, build and to volunteer their time in any way possible. January 3-10, 1996, Edition (30 years ago) The Tavistock Hickson Lions Novice Reps captured the Silver Stick C division championship in Kincardine last week and have earned the right to compete in the International Silver Stick in Michigan in late January. The final game was against Drayton, which proved to be pressure packed as the opposition had some of the best skilled players in the tourney. Tavistock was able to offset these players with their grit and determination, winning 3-1. Members of the team include Kris Yungblut, David Witzel, Tyler Townsend, Ian McLaren, Rob McLaren, Jeff Roes, Mathew Schumm, Jordan Zehr, Jeff Harmer, Matt May Dan O’Hearn, Darryl Wettlaufer, Chris Ward, Jonathan Witzel, Tyler McKay, Dan Ferguson and coaches Gene McLaren, Dave McLaren, Jim Harmer and Bob Zehr. Two students at the Tavistock Public School received the Citizenship Award on Tuesday, Dec. 19 as presented by Const. Ron Rudy of the Tavistock Police Service. The recipients were chosen by school principal Mrs. Barbara Bellinger and awarded at the morning assembly. Recipients were Grade 3 student Travis Blum and Grade 7 student Heather Wilker. January 5-12, 1966, Edition (60 years ago) For the first time in the municipal political history of Tavistock, which was incorporated as a village in 1908, a judicial tie vote had to be broken by the village clerk. The judicial recount of the ballots cast in the municipal election on Dec. 6 was held in the chambers of Oxford County Judge Kenneth Y. Dick the morning of Tuesday, Dec. 29. A well-known district farmer, living retired with his brother, John L. Yungblut, 54, died late Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 21, when the car he was driving struck the abutment of the bridge over the Thames River on No. 59 Highway about a mile south of Tavistock. Mr. Yungblut was driving south at the time, enroute to the home of his brother, Erhardt, RR2, Tavistock. The car was wrecked beyond repair, the motor being driven into the driver’s seat, and the car body was separated from the chassis.
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TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK
GRACE UNITED CHURCH 116 Woodstock St. S., Tavistock Phone: 519-655-2151 All are welcome Service led by Rev. Marilyn Arthur Music by Marilyne Nystrome TRINITY LUTHERAN (ELCIC) Sebastopol - Tavistock 2210 Perth Line 29 Pastor Steve Hoffard Worship In Person or on Zoom Sundays at 10:00 AM (519) 655-2372 trinitylcoffice@gmail.com www.trinitytavistock.com TAVISTOCK MENNONITE Pastor Julie Ellison White
131 Wettlaufer St., Tavistock 655-2581
Sunday Worship services begin at 9:45am, with coffee and fellowship to follow at 11am. All ages Junior Sunday School will follow after the service. All are Welcome Stream services online at www.tavistockmennonitechurch.ca TAVISTOCK BIBLE CHAPEL
32 Oxford Street, Tavistock, Ontario Questions or Need Help?
ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN LCC Church Phone 519-276-0701 Wellington Street, Tavistock stpaulstavistock@gmail.com Pastor Rev. Michael Mayer EAST ZORRA MENNONITE 677044 16th Line Road, East Zorra Pastors Ray Martin & Mike Williamson www.ezmennonite.ca Service audio recordings available at:
https://ezmennonite.ca/worship/ WILMOT TOWNSHIP ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
Corner of Waterloo St and Byron St, New Hamburg Weekly Sunday services at 10:15 am. All are welcome. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com
St James Chapel of Ease
4339 Huron Rd Wilmot Township All are welcome. Contact Carol Massel: 519-502-8648 carol@masselsmarine.com ST AGATHA MENNONITE CHURCH
1967 Erb's Road St Agatha 519-634-8212 Pastor Jim Brown
Worship service 10am followed by coffee hour and sermon discussion. All are welcome
Text or Call: (519) 655-2413 tavistockbc.org
Family Bible Hour - 11am Each Sunday
To have your place of worship listing included here, please contact thewtgazette@gmail.com
SEND STORY IDEAS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO GALEN SIMMONS AT GALEN@GRANTHAVEN.COM
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette SPORTS Braves announce pair of player acquisitions
PJHL announces all-star games hosts LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Tavistock made two more roster moves just before the roster deadline, acquiring forward Jackson Andrews from the Renfrew Timberwolves of the Eastern Ontario Junior Hockey League (EOJHL) and former Braves defenceman Jack Hodge back from the Waterloo Siskins of the Greater Ontario Hockey League (GOHL). Andrews joins the team after suiting up for 25 games with the Timberwolves, picking up 18 points. He last played in the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) with the Goderich Flyers last season. The 19-year-old Waterloo native also played part of a season with the Mitchell Hawks a few years ago. “Jackson is a welcome addition for us, and he brings a strong veteran presence to our lineup. He was playing junior B up in the Ottawa area while doing his co-op for school. Now with him back home, we brought him in as he can play up and down our lineup and be a contributor for us. We can have him for a couple of years as well,
which is nice,” said Braves general manager Brent Lange. He added bringing Hodge back into the fold will be a big boost to an already strong blueline group. “I’m very pleased with the group of players we have, and our staff have done a great job to prep them here as we begin to get it going down the stretch,” Lange said. Lange added Ethan Stover, Keegan Metcalf and Andrews have all been great fits for the team. “Each guy is familiar with players on our team from growing up together or playing previously with one another in minor hockey.” All-Star Game venues and rosters announced The PJHL’s top talent will be on full display Sunday, Jan. 11, as the 2026 PJHL All-Star Games take place simultaneously across the province at 1 p.m. For the second consecutive year, Tavistock will host the South Conference battle as the Doherty takes on the Bloomfield, though the puck drops at 12:30 p.m. “The league had reached out and asked us to host it again, as I don’t believe
(CONTRIBUTED IMAGES)
Ryan McKellar, Evan Palubeski and Yann Raskin will represent the Tavistock Braves on the Doherty Division all-star team.
another team came forward to volunteer to host this year. They asked me again, I chatted with the executive and we said certainly, as it’s a good game to come to when best on best is playing one another,” said Lange. He added it is a lot of work behind the scenes to host, but plenty of people have come forward. “Having done it last year and it being a successful day, we’re prepared. Between myself, the executives for the front gate, the Blue Line Club, Seth and Marv Lies with the live scoring, and Wayne Triemstra and Scott Jacobs helping with the clock and music, we should have it all covered again.” The league released a statement on its website, noting the importance of winning an all-star matchup. “Each all-star game carries added importance as divisions will be competing for home-ice advantage in the Conference Finals, giving players and teams an extra incentive to secure a win. In addition, PJHL All-Star Game MVP Awards, presented by MilkUP, will be awarded following each game.”
Ben Oliver, Jordan Jacobs and Deklan Jermol will represent the New Hamburg Firebirds on the Doherty Division all-star team.
While the PJHL has not released allstar rosters, the Braves will have three representatives in Ryan McKellar, Evan Palubeski and Yann Raskin. Raskin leads the team with 53 points while fellow forward Palubeski sits second with 47 points. McKellar is second in team scoring among defencemen with 23 points. New Hamburg will be represented by assistant captain and forward Ben Oliver, who has 33 points to lead the Firebirds, along with defenceman Jordan Jacobs who has 19 points so far this season. Goalie Deklan Jermol rounds out the team’s allstars. The New Hamburg native has a 2.81 goals-against average along with a .923 save percentage. Wellesley has a pair of players suiting up for the Doherty Division All-Stars. Top scorer and forward Ian Speiran has 33 points on the season, while defenceman Riley Noble sits second in team scoring with 32 points. More information on the locations of other all-star games is available on the PJHL website at www.thepjhl.ca.
Ian Speiran and Riley Noble will represent the Wellesley Applejacks on the Doherty Division all-star team.
CALLING ALL COACHES, PARENTS & PLAYERS! EMAIL YOUR SPORTS STORIES TO SPENCER SEYMOUR AT SPENCER.SEYMOUR88@GMAIL.COM
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026 21
PJHL roundup: Firebirds take over sole possession of third LEE GRIFFI
Gazette Reporter
A pair of victories to start 2026 has put New Hamburg a single point ahead of Tavistock in the Provincial Junior Hockey League’s (PJHL) Doherty Division. Ben Oliver’s goal 36 seconds into overtime gave the Firebirds a 6-5 come-frombehind victory at home on Saturday, the first of a home-and-home with Hespeler. The Shamrocks jumped out to a 4-1 lead after the first period as they outshot the Firebirds 21-16. After Stephen Peppas scored the second period’s only goal, New Hamburg outscored Hespeler 3-1 in the final frame on goals by Owen Bruder, Carter Niall and Andrew Gear, setting up the extra period.
Oliver, Bruder and Peppas added two assists each in the winning effort. It was a different story on Sunday on the road as the Firebirds downed the Shamrocks 5-0, as Connor Harmon stopped all 35 shots he faced. Peppas and Oliver had a goal and an assist apiece to lead the attack. Bruder, Michael Gear and Josh Soulliere added single markers.
Tavistock entered the new year on a fivegame win streak, but lost both games last weekend, including a 4-3 shootout loss in Wellesley on Saturday. After a scoreless first, the Applejacks led 2-1 after two periods, but goals from Keaton Bartlett and Evan Palubeski, shorthanded, put Tavistock in the lead with three and a half minutes remaining. Kian Harron, with his
second of the game, forced overtime before Hudson Parker and Stuart Sinclair beat Braves goalie Blake Richard to earn the win. The Braves outshot the Applejacks 4122, but Xavier Bussiere kept Wellesley in the game and then stopped both shots he faced in the shootout. Tavistock travelled to Norwich on Sunday and found themselves in a 3-1 hole after 40 minutes. Keegan Metcalf and Ryan McKellar scored goals 26 seconds apart early in the third to tie it up, but the Merchants would score the game-winner at the 18:14 mark of the final frame. Despite the rough start to the unofficial second half of the season, general manager Brent Lange took away some positives. “Yeah, we lost both, one in a shootout
and the other one with a late goal against, but we were without our top goal scorer (Yann Raskin) for one, our captain, Marc Dionne, was also away, along with one of our best defencemen. We knew going into the weekend with a few gaps in the lineup would be tough, especially with a week and a half off over the holidays.” Lange expects the Braves to get back on track this weekend with a full lineup on the ice. Wellesley went to Paris on Sunday to take on the seventh-place Titans where they dropped a 6-2 decision. The Applejacks led 2-1 by the 11:20 mark of the first period on goals from Hudson Parker and Kian Harron, but Paris notched five straight goals to earn the win.
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Royals back on track with a pair of weekend wins
LEE GRIFFI
Gazette Reporter
The best way to break a losing streak is to start a winning streak, and that’s exactly what Tavistock did with a pair of Ontario Elite Hockey League (OEHL) victories over the weekend against a pair of teams below them in the standings. The key was an explosive offence that scored 16 times. The weekend kicked off with a 9-4 home-ice win over Tillsonburg on Friday. The Royals built a 9-0 lead with six and a half minutes left in the third period before the Thunder was able to beat Tavistock goalie Joseph Clark four times. Fifteen of 18 Royals skaters found the scoresheet, led by Issac Westlake’s goal and two assists. Cam Leslie, Colin Martin, Matt Zilke, Sean Leslie, Devon Kropf, Lucas Bast, Michael Capicotto and Mitch Atkins added two points each. The Royals dominated the Milverton Four Wheel Drives with a 7-0 victory in Wellesley on Saturday night. Bryan Foster and Kropf led the attack with three-point
performances with Leslie scoring twice and Callan Christner adding a pair of assists. Patrick Vulgan and Trevor Sauder added single markers for Tavistock as the Royals outshot the Drives 48-30. The game was played in Wellesley as part of the Applejacks Alumni celebration. The Royals took on the Four Wheel Drives during an afternoon tilt, followed by an alumni game, a free skate and a Junior C game where the Tavistock Braves battled the Wellesley Applejacks. Tavistock and Milverton each have several former Wellesley Junior C players on their rosters. The Royals’ next action is on Saturday night at home against the Dunville Aeros, who sit just two points behind Tavistock in the Southern Division standings. The Royals annual and very popular Drive-Thru Pork BBQ is back in 2026. The event runs from 4-5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 17. Tickets are available for pickup at South Easthope Insurance in Tavistock, by contacting any player or executive member or by email at taviroyals@gmail.com.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF TAVISTOCK ROYALS)
Matt Zilke from Tavistock battled Tillsonburg’s Kyle Brezinski on Friday night. Both players were assessed fighting majors and game misconducts.
CURRENT ONTARIO ELITE HOCKEY LEAGUE SOUTH CONFERENCE STANDINGS
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026 23
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The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Thursday, January 8, 2026
Predictions for 2026
ments to the contrary at his Jan. 3 press conference, public pressure within Venezuela will sway the American president to eventually support Maria Corina Machado as the rightful leader of Venezuela.
FROM THE
PUBLISHER'S DESK
2.
By Stewart Grant A New Year’s Day poll on Smerconish.com asked people, “Will the world be in a better place at the end of 2026 than it is today?” Of the 25,000 responses, just over 60 per cent replied “No” while the remainder replied “Yes.” What do you think? It’s a subjective question that’s hard to measure, but I had cast my Jan. 1 vote in the “Yes” column. Maybe that’s just wishful thinking. The year is certainly off to quite an interesting start. As I finish up this predictions article on Jan. 3, one of 2026’s
big questions had already been answered, with the news that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has been removed from power by American forces. While Maduro was an illegitimate leader who had stolen the 2024 Venezuelan election, the brazen manner whereby he was taken out is very concerning, as are the unknown worldwide consequences that may follow. Here’s my crack at how the rest of the year will play out … 1.
Despite Trump’s com-
3.
4.
A Democratic politician will call for the impeachment of Donald Trump for failing to gain necessary approvals for invading Venezuela, but this goes nowhere. In Canada, the Liberal government will hold throughout 2026. Pierre Poilievre will remain as Conservative leader following that party’s leadership review in January.
5.
Although there will be much speculation, China will not invade Taiwan in 2026.
6.
A ceasefire will be negotiated in the Russia-Ukraine war.
7.
Drone
warfare,
one
of
round when the team fails to make the playoffs.
the staples of the Russia-Ukraine war, will sadly make its first high-profile appearance on this side of the ocean, with a notable strike sparking heavy interest in counter-drone defense systems.
13. The Buffalo Bills make it to the Super Bowl but lose to the Seattle Seahawks.
8.
American tariffs on Canadian-made products will decrease during the year.
15. France will win the 2026 World Cup.
9.
Despite worries about an AI bubble, the stock markets will record another positive year.
10. More information will be released from the Epstein files, but no arrests of high-profile personalities will occur. 11. In sports, the Stanley Cup will stay south of the border, with the Colorado Avalanche earning the NHL’s top prize. 12. Fans of the Toronto Maple Leafs will be spared the agony of losing in the first
14. Team Canada will edge Team USA in the Men’s Olympic Hockey Finals.
16. Speculation will grow regarding Trump’s physical and mental health as he turns 80 years old this year. He will survive the year, but with increased public focus on JD Vance as potentially needing to take over as U.S. president in 2027. 17. Late addition to the prediction list - Despite all his talk, surely Trump will not invade Greenland, Colombia, or Cuba in 2026, right?? Do you have any bold predictions for 2026? Feel free to email me at stew@granthaven.com to have your say.
Historic 1948 New Hamburg fire truck coming home to Wilmot Township GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
There is good news coming out of The Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigades Museum in Baden. In late October, members received an unexpected email from Western Canada about a long-lost piece of local firefighting history – a 1948 Ford F-155 BickleSeagrave pumper that once served the New Hamburg Fire Department. Built in Woodstock and delivered brand new to New Hamburg firefighters in 1948, the truck remained in service until 1978 before being sold. Over the decades, it passed through several owners and eventually settled in a private collection in Yellowhead County, Alta., where it was kept in heated storage and displayed alongside other antique vehicles. Remarkably, the pumper remains almost entirely original, right down to its lettering and striping. The Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade is thrilled to be able to bring the truck home.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said brigade president Peter Gingerich. “We’re very excited to have the chance to return a piece of history to Wilmot Township.” Arrangements are now underway to float the truck back from Alberta to Baden. Once it arrives, members will inspect it, complete a safety check and carry out any repairs needed to make the vehicle roadworthy and fully licensed. When that work is done, the brigade plans to drive the restored pumper from their museum to New Hamburg for a special homecoming event. Many of today’s firefighters weren’t even born when the truck last served the community. To help cover the costs of purchasing, transporting and restoring the vehicle, the volunteer brigade has launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $50,000. As a registered charity, they will issue tax receipts for all donations. Gingerich said the museum is also welcoming new members. Firefighting
experience is not required – volunteers are needed for everything from bookkeeping to cleaning and caring for the antique trucks. The museum houses six other vintage fire trucks along with thousands of artifacts including horse-drawn equipment, uniforms, turnout gear, tools, photos and newspaper archives. Private and group tours are available by appointment. More information can be found at wilmotfiremuseum.com, on Facebook, or by calling 519-572-2811. The museum is located at 10 Bell Dr., Baden.
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(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
The 1948 Ford F-155 Bickle-Seagrave pumper, delivered new to the New Hamburg Fire Department and in service until 1978, is coming home from Alberta. The fully original truck will soon join the collection at the Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigades Museum in Baden.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026 25
Tales for Tails helps young Gazette Puzzles LET’S GO SKIING readers build confidence B R S L A L O M S D A F P H O P C G R Z
DIANE DANEN
Gazette Correspondent
The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth supports people and pets across Waterloo Region and Perth County, and is extending that support into local schools. The organization is partnering with Sprucedale Public School in Shakespeare to offer the Tales for Tails program, which helps students build reading confidence. Meghan McArthur, an employee with the Stratford-Perth Humane Society, is working with young readers at the school as part of the program. McArthur has worked at the Stratford Humane Society for four years. She started as a camp director and continues to lead children’s programs. Once a week, McArthur visits Sprucedale Public School with her dog, Stella, a Certified Education Dog. They meet students in the school library as part of an eight-week program. Each child spends about 15 minutes reading aloud to Stella in a calm, relaxed setting. The Tales for Tails program allows children to read aloud in a judgment-free environment. McArthur is not there to teach reading skills. Her role is to support and encourage students. Stella also plays an important role. Reading to Stella is a fun and pressure-free way to help build readers’ confidence. To become a Certified Education Dog,
Stella completed a series of evaluations. These tests are similar to those required for therapy dogs in hospitals. Stella was tested in schools, hospitals and public spaces. Evaluators observed how she reacted to loud noises and people of different ages. “Stella was a star and passed with flying colours,” McArthur said. “Testers described her as one of the best dogs they had ever tested.” Stella joined the McArthur family in Tavistock during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is a rescue dog originally from Texas. Before coming to Canada, she had never seen snow. Now, the part-husky dog loves winter. Stella is believed to be around 11 years old based on her hair and eyes. Eight students have taken part in the Tales for Tails program, made possible by a government grant awarded to the Humane Society. The final session with McArthur and Stella is scheduled for Jan. 8, 2026. Organizers hope additional funding will be approved so the program can continue. Other popular programs offered by The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth include PD Day camps, March break and summer camps, birthday parties, Vets in Training, Critter Club and Yoga with the Animals where a variety of furry friends join participants. To learn more about The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth, visit their website at kwsphumane.ca
W J T G P M D O E N Y E T S A M U Y N Z J N Z S S Q D G C B O R N T I K G T B Z C H E L M E T U D V S W R S N D B Z O J M R X L C Z U L V T J O P J C S Y A A Q N F O W R O P S O I L W Q L B O Y P P R I H B S T Y I O G O L Y H P O X I I R Y J E F O S P B L D A G V K L K W D Y È Q L I A R T C L E L O L H D J T P T X S Z I F A K I I O V T K N O H A O Y S P S U L U V G H K R U B Y R W D W F V E E K L F Q H N Q Q M R N R R W D N K O L N I E Q Q W T R Y X N N T Q E B I O D O I N W Y O U R O W T F I L R I A H C G P P W C D F F D R N T R K R E Y P M F F O L E T M H A S O F P C C O G Q H L Y T N A W W H W T W F F A X Q R V R M S Y F I M A I O M E R K X W D M F R E K B D D E Y Q L S N R E C N F F V L P D E M B W Q Y O M U G C A E D A L U G C P E U P R M V C Z
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Meghan McArthur of the Stratford Humane Society, Stella her Certified Education Dog, and Grade 3 student Olivia Gauler enjoy the Tales for Tails reading program
Stella, the Certified Education Dog, and Meghan McArthur of the Stratford Humane Society greet Grade 3 student Hendrix Hardman Wynes.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
How can I stay healthy after finding black mold in my home?
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS By Mercedes Kay Gold I just discovered black mold in our house, and after reading about the risks, I am scared. Is there anything I can do to support my body naturally? Black mold is concerning and can affect health. Mold, a type of fungus, grows in areas where water pools up or condensation is normal. It’s common to find in damp basements and areas once water-damaged. Keep your eyes open for discoloration and especially spots that return even after being removed. Mold can produce toxic agents called mycotoxins. Exposure to spores can trigger symptoms in those with mold allergies, respiratory conditions or individuals with weakened immune systems. Sometimes mold symptoms get mistaken for allergies or the common cold.
Persistent coughing, runny nose, sore throat, watery eyes, nasal congestion and wheezing are all worrisome. Prolonged mold exposure can lead to breathing difficulties and a fever may occur. Supporting the body naturally is this health expert’s first line of defense. Implementing holistic health hacks is heaps of help. Air purifiers help remove the spores from the air but do not remove actively growing mold on various surfaces. Reduce the home’s humidity to somewhere between 30-50 per cent. Repair leaks, drips and throw out any items that never dried properly. Use exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen. Take a visit to a salt cave. Salt therapy or halo therapy
traces back to Eastern Europe. This ancient practice involves breathing in salt-particles in a salt-lined room or cave. Salt is an awesome anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial agent, absorbing excess mucus and opening up airways promoting better breathing. Go plant shopping for an English Ivy or Peace Lily plant to remove airborne fungus from your living or work space. Take an Epsom salt or bentonite clay bath. True, there is very little scientific evidence but experts do agree soaking lowers stress. Reducing cortisol levels soothes the body by engaging the parasympathetic response. Activated charcoal or chlorella act as binders to remove mold from the body. Activated charcoal is best known as a tooth whitener originally, making its modern-day debut in all-natural, fluoride-free toothpastes, but has gone mainstream. Chlorella is a type of algae that grows in fresh water with a long history of detoxification. This gorgeous green powder easily mixes into water, juice or easily hidden in a smoothie. Chlorella is sold in capsule form, and easily found in your favorite health store. On top of its detox properties, this
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
Black mold spreads across a damp interior wall, a common household hazard that can pose serious health risks if left untreated.
astounding antioxidant is high in vitamins B12, D and non-heme iron. Keeping all seven pathways of elimation open supports speedy transit. Jumping is all about showing love to the lymphatic system. Try a rebounder, skipping rope or even jumping underwater for less impact on joints. Sweating is the ultimate health hack for dumping toxins through skin, our largest organ. Drinking ample water supports the urinary system. Urine should be the colour of pale straw and odourless.
Dandelion tea encourages bile release from the liver and gallbladder for detox support. Milk thistle liquid or tea helps support liver detox while fighting off fungal invaders. Ground flax and chia act as a toothbrush scrubbing the intestinal walls, speeding up transit time. Maintaining regular bulky bowel movements helps eliminate toxins. It’s important to remove mold from your home. If you have been exposed to mold for any extended time, speak to your health practitioner about being tested for mold.
The surprising power of a reverse bucket list INTERFAITH COUNSELLING CENTRE By John Dinner We tend to measure our lives by the things we haven’t done yet. Visit Machu Picchu. Learn Italian. Run a marathon. The traditional bucket list, for all its inspiration, often casts an unflattering spotlight on perceived gaps – reminders of every adventure we’re supposedly behind on. But there’s a quieter, far more grounding alternative gaining momentum: the reverse bucket list. A reverse bucket list is simple in concept. Instead of cataloguing future ambitions, you instead list the meaningful experiences, accomplishments and joys
you’ve already lived. It can include the obvious highlights such as graduations, new jobs, places traveled and the like. But the real magic lies in capturing the quieter victories: the night you stayed up comforting a friend, the time you finally learned to make bread, the summer you spent sitting on the porch listening to thunderstorms. These aren’t items to check off; instead, they’re reminders of a life already rich with texture. One of the greatest benefits of a reverse bucket list is perspective. In a culture wired for constant striving, it’s astonishingly easy to forget what we’ve already achieved. We look forward so relentlessly that we rarely look back. Writing down past milestones functions like cleaning the dust off a mirror. You see yourself more clearly – capable, resilient and more experienced than you give yourself credit for. This alone can shift your internal narrative from one of scarcity (“I haven’t done enough”) to one of appreciation (“I’ve lived more than I realized”). It’s also a powerful antidote to the com-
parison trap. When we scroll through the online feeds of other people’s milestones, it’s easy to feel behind. The reverse bucket list pulls the attention inward in a healthy way: it invites you to honor your life thus far and not someone else’s highlight reel. This sense of ownership over your own story can be uplifting when the world feels like it’s moving too fast. There’s psychological weight behind this practice, too. Research in positive psychology consistently shows that gratitude enhances wellbeing, optimism and even physical health. A reverse bucket list is essentially gratitude in narrative form. It transforms abstract appreciation into something tangible. It’s difficult to doubt your strength or progress when it’s listed right in front of you. Interestingly, this backward-looking exercise can also spark forward momentum. By reflecting on what has mattered to you so far, you develop a clearer sense of what actually brings meaning – not what you think should matter, but what truly has. Maybe the highlights of your list aren’t
the flashy ones; maybe it’s not the big trip but the small act, not the promotion but the moment of courage. These patterns can guide your future choices more authentically than a bucket list built on aspirations with no real anchor. Most importantly, a reverse bucket list shifts the metric of a life well lived from anticipation to appreciation. We’re all told to dream big. And we should. But dreaming big is easier when we remember how far we’ve already come. So, as the calendar page turns to 2026, take an hour to sit down with a notebook and write the opposite of a to-do list for your life. You may be surprised at what you find: not a list of things you’re missing, but a catalogue of abundance already earned. John Dinner is a registered psychotherapist who works as a counsellor at Interfaith Counselling Centre in New Hamburg. He has a habit of acting on the small, quiet voice that keeps reminding him of things of intrinsic meaning and value, for which he is thankful.
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Paris: a splendidly walkable city
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO By Paul Knowles
If I were forced to choose among places to visit, I would always pick Ottawa over Toronto, Québec City over Montréal, or Amsterdam, Netherlands over London, England. And my reason is simple; those chosen destinations are all eminently walkable. I really enjoy visiting a city where many of the places I want to see are within walking distance of each other, and that is one of the reasons that we enjoyed our stay in Paris so much. We are in the capital of France because we opted for an addon stay before our Viking River Cruise on the Rhone River. Now, the full story is we made that decision fairly late in the game, so the more basic hotel included in the package was already fully booked. That being the case, did we want to splurge on the upgraded hotel at additional cost? Well, heck, how often are we going to spend three days in Paris? We agreed to splurge. That put us in the Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra. It was a perfect location, and we liked our accommodation very much, but after ordering a coffee and tea upon arrival, and being billed something like $35 Canadian, we quickly understood that we would seek food and drink elsewhere, which was never actually a problem in this city of cafés. But the best part was everything we wanted to see could be reached comfortably on foot. As soon as we had checked in and I had emptied my bank account to pay for a coffee and a tea, I tucked a map into my pocket and we set out to explore. The reason for the hotel’s name became quickly obvious – we were only a few steps away from the Paris Opera House, an imposing example of baroque revival architecture completed in 1875. We learned that almost all of the impressive buildings in Paris are from the 1800s because Napoleon and his successors were all about urban renewal – or perhaps, all about knocking down everything in sight to build monuments to themselves, which sounds distressingly familiar. But I digress. Right across the street from the Opera House is a high-end de-
partment store called the Galeries Lafayette. What’s special here is the rooftop terrace, open free of charge, which provides a spectacular view of the city. A couple of blocks into our wandering we discovered the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, an imposing structure built in the style of a Roman temple. It has an intriguing history – it was begun in 1763 during the reign of King Louis XV. Construction stopped completely when the French Revolution abolished the monarchy quite dramatically by beheading Louis VI and Marie Antoinette in 1793. Enter Napoleon, who became Emperor in 1804, and decided in this time of anti-church sentiment that the building be re-purposed as “A Temple to the Glory of the Grand Army,” An army which was, not coincidentally, headed by Napoleon. Napoleon died and the monarchy was reinstated. The “Temple” reverted to its original intention, as a church, but progress on completing the structure was still slow – it was not officially inaugurated as a church until 1842, almost eight decades after construction was begun. Today, it is still a church, but perhaps even better known as one of the finest concert halls in Paris. We left the church and strolled toward the Seine River, accidentally arriving at one of the bestknown features of Paris, the Place de la Concorde. This 20-acre square, situated between the Avenue de Champs-Élysées and the Jardin des Tuileries, is one of the most beautiful parts of the city.
The Eiffel Tower, seen from the Seine River.
However, it has a history that is considerably less appealing. While today it is dubbed “Concorde” (which means harmony or friendship), in the late 1700s, this was the site of the beheadings of Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette and thousands of others who climbed the steps to lose their heads on the guillotine. At that time, the square was known as the Place de la Revolution. There is no evidence of the bloodshed today. When we visited, the permanent monuments like the Luxor Obelisk (a 3,000-yearold monolith that was given by Egypt to France in 1829), and the spectacular fountains, were sharing space with an outdoor, nature photography exhibition. Our wandering continued. We explored the aforementioned Tuileries Garden and found ourselves surrounded by Parisiens at their contented leisure. On the far side of the gardens, we were suddenly on the grounds of the Louvre. And nearby were two destinations I have always wanted to visit – the Musée D’Orsay and the Musée de l’Orangerie. The former holds perhaps the world’s best collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, while the latter is bestknown for two rooms where the walls are covered with Water Lily murals of Claude Monet. The two are on opposite sides of the Seine River, about a 10-minute walk apart. And no, we didn’t actually accomplish all of this in one walk. We saved the Orangerie and additional exploration of the Louvre for the following day, when we also made the longer trek along the Seine to the Eiffel Tower. So, if you are a walker, you simply have to love Paris. Paul Knowles is an author and travel writer, and past president of the Travel Media Association of Canada. To contact Paul about travel, his books, or speaking engagements, email pknowles@ golden.net.
The 3,000-year-old Luxor Obelisk in the Place de la Concorde.
Thursday, January 8, 2026 27
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
The Paris Opera House, a baroque revival masterpiece.
Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and many other famous landmarks, as seen from the rooftop terrace of the Galeries Lafayette.
The interior of the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026
Winter fashions of yesteryear VINTAGE VIEWS By Tim Mosher
Tavistock and District Historical Society This is clearly a carefully posed studio photo of an idealized setup of children preparing to go ice skating. The beautiful soft lighting, a classic triangular composition, rich black and white tones and textures, eyes looking where they should be and almost faultless clothing and accessories suggest that it might have been used for advertising. Scrutinize the picture carefully and you’ll see a photographer’s oversight: one of the clamp-on skates is off the edge of the picture. This type of skate was common at the time. They simply clamped onto the sole of a shoe or boot. John Lemp took a number of pictures with similar setups, including the photo with the Vintage Views article published April 3, 2025, of two children carefully posed in a studio, surrounded by cedar boughs and the boy was – oddly – wearing a mortarboard (a square, black, college graduate’s cap). Such careful execution and the artificial setup clearly set it apart from a typical family photo. The vast majority of Lemp’s stu-
dio portraits were standard family photos, unlike these but those that were made in this style confirm that he was a very competent photographer likely hired to take pictures by companies to sell their products. He also took numerous photos of livestock and champion fowl, bottles of medicine, a tabletop cider press probably to accompany a patent application and car wrecks at garages perhaps for insurance claims. A few of these had their backgrounds eliminated with a liquid opaque material akin to White Out that would be brushed onto the negative by hand, resulting in only the main subject being visible and not the surroundings; useful in advertising. Readers, if you ever come across a photo in an old catalogue or promotional material that you suspect was taken by John Lemp, please send a picture of it to me at the email address in the History Mystery. So far, I’ve only seen the original pictures, not the published advertisements. Happy New Year! I hope you took lots of photos of your fami-
(SCAN #1289, PHOTO ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN LEMP)
Note the repeating carpet pattern and backdrop. Sometimes the photographer would close his shop, sell his studio furnishings, cameras and negatives to the next photographer who set up in town. This can confuse us today wondering who took the picture, where it was taken and the picture’s date unless it was recorded otherwise.
ly gatherings. Decades from now, they’ll be cherished images that’ll take you back to “the old days” of 2025. The last History Mystery: The subject was the official entrance to Queen’s Park in Tavistock and the question was “The gates were dedicated in 1929 when George V was the Monarch, so why aren’t they called ‘The King’s Park Gates?’ ” The first person to answer this correctly was Marilyn Pearson of Tavistock who wrote it was “... likely honouring Queen Mary (wife of King George V) due to her community work and connection with the Women’s Institute.” I agree that it’s “likely” because there’s no written record in the Tavistock Women’s Institute papers noting how this name was chosen, so it’s the accepted consensus today. Mary’s connection to the W.I. was that she was the president of her local chapter at Sandringham, England, where she resided as Queen Consort and was known for efforts bettering local public spaces there. This edition’s History Mystery: Which clothing item’s name in the picture with three children has a Dutch etymology? This question is open to all ages. The first reader to send the correct answer to me at tim_mosher@ hotmail.com will have their name and the name of the community where they live or rural route number published in the next Vintage Views article.
(SCAN #1719, PHOTO ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN LEMP)
It’s not known what the original purpose of this portrait was, but one theory is that the photographer, John Lemp, is thought to have been hired to take photos for catalogues.
(SCAN #2523, PHOTO BY JOHN LEMP)
John Lemp’s son, Leonard, grins in this Christmas picture for his photographer papa in 1911. Len joined his father’s pharmacy in 1928, though he didn’t continue the photo side of the business. Lenny and his family were my next-door neighbours in Tavistock. He passed away in 1978.
(SCAN #1707, PHOTO ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN LEMP)
This doe-eyed child is the centre of attention, but the surroundings often say a lot. The wooden column that she’s leaning against, the backdrop and carpet repeat in other pictures, which sometimes helps identify which of Tavistock’s multiple photo studios the pictures were taken in and who the photographer was.
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Thursday, January 8, 2026 29
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WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 21 CON’T East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting 7 p.m. Council Chambers 89 Loveys Street East, Hickson MONDAY, JANUARY 26 Wilmot Council meeting 7-10p.m. Council chambers 60 Snyder’s Road W., Baden WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28 Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for lunch and fellowship 12 noon Cost: $15.00. Please register by Jan. 23 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900. Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 Nith Valley Ecoboosters Repair Cafe 9:30 am to 12:30 pm Free event where community members can bring broken appliances and items, and volunteer ‘fixers’ will walk them through repairing them. There will be fixers for small household mechanical and woodworking repairs, mending for clothing, knit and crochet items, jewelry, and book repairs. Contact details – nvebrepaircafe@gmail.com Zion United Church 215 Peel Street, New Hamburg
MORNING & EVENING BIBLE READING Read the Bible in a Year in Community Morning meeting 6:00 a.m. daily Evening meeting 6:00 p.m. daily Contact Arthur Rosh if interested. Phone number: 226-899-1551 Email address: arthur.rosh@gmail.com Location to be determined in New Hamburg, Tavistock, Baden, Wellesley, New Dundee, St. Agatha, Shakespeare, Petersburg, Hickson, Punkeydoodle’s Corner and area EVERY WEDNESDAY TOPS - Taking off Pounds Sensibly Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. TOPS is a non-judgmental weight loss support group. Need help on your weight loss journey. For info call Cathie 519-662-9273. St James Church, Baden Wednesday Night Euchre at the New Hamburg Legion Wednesdays at 7 p.m. 65 Boulee St., New Hamburg STAMP CLUB Oxford Philatelic Society Meetings: 2nd Tuesday (2-4 p.m.) and 4th Tuesday (7 to 9 p.m.) September to May If you have never belonged to a stamp club, now’s the time. Meet new friends, grow your knowledge and collection. Contact: Don Eaton dhfe@silomail.com Website: http://www.rpsc.org/chapters/oxford Church of the Epiphany 560 Dundas Street, Woodstock Ontario N4S 1C7
FREE SENIORS ACTIVITIES Tavistock Seniors Activities @ Tavistock Memorial Hall, 1 Adam St. Tavistock ON, except Shuffleboard Pickleball Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon, 12-4 p.m. Contact: Don Junker 519-535-7052 Cards Monday , Wednesday afternoon 1-4 p.m., euchre, crib (bring board), etc. Just drop in to play, good to bring someone . Contact: Bob Routly 519-301-2118 Inside walking Monday & Wednesday morning 8.30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Contact: Larry Brown 519-240-6715 Crokinole Monday , Wednesday morning 8.30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Just drop in to play, good to bring someone. Contact: John Schultz 519-655-2346 Shuffleboard @ arena, Wednesday 12:30-4 and Thursday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Contact: Don Junker 519-535-7052. VON Smart Seniors Exercise, Tuesday and Thursday morning 9 - 10 a.m.; Village Manor 10:25 - 11:25 a.m. Contact: 519-539-1231 x 6285
PROMOTE YOUR EVENTS WITH US! HERE’S HOW: The Community Calendar allows non-profit organizations to promote their free admission community events at no charge. Event listings can include your event name, date, time and location as well as contact information (ie phone number, email address or website). If your event is not free admission or you would like to include more details than stated above, The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette offers the following options for promoting your community events: Coming Events Word Ad (50 word max.) - $10 + hst Coming Events Boxed Word Ad (50 word max.) - $15 + hst Display Ad - Sizes begin at a Small Classified Display ad (3.3" x 2.5") - $35 + hst
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YOUR LOCAL FAMILY RUN
Skidsteer and Mini Excavator
NEW HAMBURG, ONTARIO
SERVICES (all ages welcome): dental cleaning & polishing (stain removal), teeth whitening, custom sport mouthguards, oral cancer screening, denture cleanings & more!
Randy Fletcher
519-272-3641
HEALTH SERVICES
Jack Tchabushnig Associate Investment Advisor
519.883.6066 • Twealth@raymondjames.ca Twealthgroup.comr
ONLINE BOOKING @ www.wilmotsmiles.ca
226-880-1648 lisa@wilmotsmiles.ca
LEGAL
CONTRACTORS
Monteith Ritsma Phillips
ON SITE AND IN-STORE SERVICE
PRO F E S S I O N A L C O R P O R AT I O N
NEW AND USED COMPUTERS
FOCUS
WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM
519-655-2900
COMPUTERS
To book your space call Heather Dunbar at 226.261.1837 or heather@granthaven.com
CONSTRUCTION Foundations, Floors, Driveways, Patios Drive Sheds, Barns & Bunk Silos General Contracting - Anything Concrete! www.agcore.ca • bstere@agcore.ca
To advertise, contact Heather Dunbar at 226.261.1837 or heather@granthaven.com
LANDSCAPING
Brian Stere
519-276-1851
www.tavistocklawyers.com Appointments as arranged
Massage Therapy Associates of Tavistock
KRISTY SCHLEGEL, RMT 24 Hope St. W., Tavistock
• Prevent & Treat Muscular Disorder • Restore & Enhance Physical Well-Being • Massage Therapy • Reflexology Ph: 519-655-2512 for appt. or inquiries
PLUMBING McKay Plumbing
Commercial - Residential - Agricultural
Mark McKay
Owner/Operator 519-301-1097
63 Hope St. W. Box 899, Tavistock N0B 2R0
markmckay@rogers.com
REAL ESTATE THINKING OF MAKING A MOVE? KATE GINGERICH SALES REPRESENTATIVE
kate@paulandkatekw.com 226-789-3846
Foundations • Floors • Driveways • Sidewalks
Jon Willsey 519-778-2616 Tavistock, ON jwillsey@fivestarcustomconcrete.com www.fivestarcustomconcrete.com
640 Riverbend Dr. Kitchener ON, N2K 3S2
STORAGE STORE YOUR STUFF!
RESIDENTIAL AGRICULTURAL COMMERCIAL
New Buildings and Renovations. Box 250, Tavistock Ph: 519.655.2355 info@mohrconstruction.com
MASSAGE
MINI STORAGE: 8x13/8x16/10x11 INTERIOR MINI STORAGE Call for Pricing!
ADDITIONS • RENOVATIONS REPLACEMENT WINDOWS & DOORS DECKS & INTERIOR FINISHING
GARY PEARSON 519-655-2825
MOHR STORAGE
114 John St, Box 250, Tavistock Tel: 519-655-2355 • Fax 655-2715
COUNSELLING
REAL ESTATE
Residential Commercial Agricultural jonwitzel.com
RENT A BOX
Portable Storage Containers Sizes 8’x12’ to 8’x24’ Store at your place or ours. Phone 519-625-8510
519-662-4239
Paving stone (installation & repair), sidewalks, patios, pool decks, planters, driveways, retaining walls
TRAVEL
DENTAL P.O. Box 979, Tavistock Kris Zehr Cell: 519-801-1743
Offering I.V. Sedation, Nitrous Oxide, Implant Tooth Replacement and Root Canal Treatment 48 Woodstock St. N., Tavistock, ON N0B 2R0 Tel: 519 655 2101 info@tavistockdental.ca tavistockdental.ca
Main office: 150 Queen St E, St. Marys • 519-284-2332 210 Mill St, New Hamburg • 226-333-9939 www.stonetowntravel.com
ELECTRICAL Specializing in Agricultural, Solar, Automation Control and EV Charging
DEDICATED TO MEETING ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS! Serving Tavistock, Stratford & Area since 1994
163 Hope St. W. Toll Free: 1-855-655-6802 P.O. Box 495 Local: 519-655-6802 Tavistock, ON N0B 2R0 Email:info@crescentridge.ca
88 Wellington Street, Stratford, ON, N5A 2L2 SANDRA EBY, Sales Representative mseby@rogers.com • www.remaxabrealty.ca Independently Owned & Operated
Cell: 519-272-7676 Res: 519-655-2548 Office: 519-273-2821
To book your a space call Heather Dunbar at 226.261.1837 or heather@granthaven.com
ION • NT
N • ATT O
TENT I AT
OT NT TIA E• EN
Bradin Mogk (519) 535-4767 / mogkelectric@gmail.com
RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
AGRICULTURAL
ECRA/ESA License #7016946
SALES REP
32
Thursday, January 8, 2026
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
SUPERIOR QUALITY
in every bite!
Order online today! TLCPETFOOD.COM | 519·662·9500
DELIVERED FRESH. DELIVERED FREE.