The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
United Way Oxford’s second Ultimate Burger Battle a success
raised after 2,831 burgers were sold during the lively charitable competition.
United Way Oxford’s second annual Ultimate Burger Battle concluded at the end of November with more than $20,000
“We are so thankful to our community for supporting this event. Two dollars from every Ultimate Burger sold
was donated to United Way Oxford, and all the money raised will be invested back into our community,” said United Way resource development coordinator Megan Porter. “We’ve seen such a
With financial support from the Badge of Hope Foundation and the Government of Ontario, the Family Violence Project Waterloo Region (FVP) is strengthening its impact in preventing and addressing rising levels of intimate-partner and gender-based violence across Waterloo Region, and provide better access to care in Wilmot Township.
Established 20 years ago, FVP has evolved to include multi-sectoral services under one roof, emphasizing education, prevention, advocacy and coordinated care for those experiencing intimate-partner and gender-based violence.
“We are Canada’s first co-located hub dedicated to intimate-partner violence, and now our mission affirms our commitment to a client-centred and community-based response,” said newly appointed director Pari Karem. “It’s a response that brings together under one roof multi-sectoral services to address the full
LEE GRIFFI
A huge crowd gathered in downtown New Hamburg Friday night for the Wilmot Lions/Lioness Club’s 42nd annual Tree of Light Ceremony. Christmas music was performed by the New Hamburg Concert Band and Mixology A Cappella Singers, and the young winners of the annual colouring contest were announced.
(SCREENSHOT FROM FACEBOOK REEL)
Madmash wins big as annual Ultimate Burger Battle boosts United Way by $20K
growth between last year’s event and this year’s. We are so excited to see how it grows from here.”
Throughout the month, burger fans voted for their favourite among 16 restaurants’ unique burger creations. Tavistock’s Madmash Brewery and Restaurant won first place in the people’s choice voting, with Woodstock’s Charles Dickens Pub coming in second and Tillsonburg’s The Copper Mug third. Platinum-level restaurants also competed for the 2025 Ultimate Burger of the Year, as voted by 10 burger ambassadors. With nine contenders, Madmash took the title.
Madmash co-owner Jon Ross said his immediate reaction was pure and absolute joy.
“As a grown man, it takes a lot to bring a tear to my eyes, but when we heard the announcement on Heart FM, I was overcome with emotion.”
Ross said he knew opening a brewery and restaurant in a small town like Tavistock wouldn’t be easy, but his mission has always been focused on community.
“We wanted to create a place that served amazing food and was deeply invested in making this area a better place to live.
To be recognized as the Ultimate Burger Champion and to also win the People’s Choice Award as a young operation is truly
humbling and, honestly, pretty amazing. It validates all the long hours and passion our team puts in.”
Ross added winning awards for the burger meant a lot, but the best part was being able to help those in need across Oxford.
“The most rewarding part of the entire competition was the fact that it was all in support of United Way Oxford. Their team does absolutely crucial work in our region, and to know we played a part in that is what truly makes us proud.”
He added Madmash has a responsibility to support those in need, which is why the operation runs a Give a Meal program which directly supports the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP), ensuring local families have access to a fun and nutritious night out at our restaurant.
“Participating in the Burger Battle allowed us to grow our commitment to helping those in need. To be able to leverage something as simple and fun as a delicious burger to raise over $1,000 for United Way Oxford’s critical programs, that’s the real victory.”
Ross gave all the culinary credit to chef Will Churchward, who said he added a few ingredients to a burger already on the menu.
“It’s finished with a bacon jam that really does the heavy lifting in this burger. I
Saturday, December 13th 8:00 am to 11:00 am
originally came up with something similar while helping a friend create a cocktail for a contest at a bar where we worked together. He needed a tasty garnish, and that’s where these flavours come from.”
He added there is no better feeling than seeing the hard work he’s put in recognized in this way.
“I’m so happy to have been a part of this, and you best believe that this will be a permanent member on our menu. Could not have made this happen without my boys,
Support boost aims to break cycle of gender-based violence
continuum of gender-based violence.
“Our goal is not only to respond to a crisis when it happens, but also to end the cycle of abuse at its root. So, we aim to identify the root cause of abuse and end the cycle. We can do that through education, prevention, advocacy and coordinated services of care.”
With the funding, a director and a newly created system navigator role were established. The system navigator will work directly with survivors of abuse, helping them access supports and ensuring each person is connected to individualized care.
“The navigator role will help bridge the gaps,” said Karem. “Our goal is to provide outreach and education. We will be actively connecting with our counter partners in rural areas, such as Wilmot. We will coordinate support to reduce the number of times survivors need to tell their story and remove barriers to access by ensuring people across the region get connected to access to counselling, safety planning, police support, crisis services and access to shelter.”
Under the leadership of Karem and guided by a comprehensive new strategic plan, FVP is moving forward with a shared vision shaped by partners, survivors and grassroots organizations.
“Our governance model includes a steering committee for executive leadership, a working group for frontline collaboration and voices for survivors group, plus other committees,” said Karem. “This structure ensures that decisions are informed by data, lived experience and partnership, not by any single agency’s perspective.”
The plan outlines clear priorities for increasing FVP’s reach and impact, centring survivors in care and building trust and accessibility through community co-design. This direction positions FVP to move toward a community free
from intimate-partner and gender-based violence.
“This is a systemic issue,” said Karem. “We know our work needs to be done upstream, midstream and downstream; all three levels to reach the goal of a community free of violence.”
FVP currently works closely with the Wilmot and Wellesley Resource Centre (WWRC) and Woolwich Community Services (WCS) to support the rural communities in the region.
“I want to send a message to our rural residents or all of our victims across the region,” said Karem. “You are not alone. Support exists and we are committed to making services more accessible, more connected and more respectful to the realities of life in places like Wilmot and surrounding townships.”
With a goal of creating a region free from violence, Karem says she is ready to help educate communities and guide FVP for years to come.
“My dream is to see that we are teaching our young children from school age that violence is learned behaviour, and we want to teach them not to be violent towards the people within their lives, their families and their communities,” said Karem.
“It starts within the family. We want to educate mothers to raise children in a safe environment and fathers to have compassion in the way they raise their children, to coach them and teach them to be kind, to show more compassion because at the end of the day, it is our experiences in life that make some of us be more violent toward others. So, if we want to get to the root cause and educate our families, my dream is to have a safe community where violence does not exist.”
For more information about the Family Violence Project or to access services, visit familyviolenceprojectwr.ca or email coordinator@familyviolenceprojectwr.ca.
Wellesley’s Jingle Run brings holiday spirit and community support to a family in need
Gazette Correspondent
The holiday season shone brightly in Wellesley over the weekend as residents laced up for the community’s festive Jingle Run/Walk, an event that combined holiday cheer with heartfelt purpose, raising $1,700 in support of a local boy fighting cancer.
Participants were invited to complete either a five-kilometre or three-kilometre route, starting outside the east entrance of the Bill Gies Recreation Complex. Spearheaded by Shauna Johnston, the run drew walkers, runners and supporters of all ages – from young children to great-grandparents – along with a couple of festively dressed dogs.
This year’s Jingle Run supported a fiveyear-old Wellesley-area boy who is undergoing treatment for leukemia. The cause has touched many hearts locally, and community members responded generously. Monetary donations poured in at the event, helping the family during a challenging time. Those still wishing to contribute may send e-transfers to sjohnston85@gmail.com.
Participants said the run was filled with joy and camaraderie as residents donned seasonal attire and made their way through the decorated streets of Wellesley, spreading cheer with every step. At the finish line, volunteers served cookies and hot apple cider as thanks for taking part in an event that raised thousands of dollars for the young boy and his family.
Organizers expressed deep gratitude to everyone who came out in support of a cause that is truly “near and dear” to the community.
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Maples Home for Seniors Residents Council & staff would like to warmly thank the following businesses for their wonderful donations that helped to make our bazaar a success!
Saputo
Gary West (Westlandyn Farms)
Yantzi Home Hardware
Premier Equipment
Krugs Meat Market
Steph’s Dog Grooming
Zehr Automotive
Ana Bakery IDA Pharmacy
Independent Grocery Store
Deep Purple Lavender Farm
Cobblestone Laser Engraving
Purebliss Hair Salon
Quehl’s Restaurant & Catering
We would also like to thank all those that donated items, baked goods and donating their time to help with the Bazaar.
All
Karen Bertram and Allister Bradley Bertram were excited to take part in Wellesley’s Jingle Run, supporting a local five-year-old boy undergoing cancer treatment.
From left, Finn Wilson, Lauchlan Orchard, Nathan Mesquita and Jonas Rohr brought festive energy to the Jingle Run, helping raise funds for a local family.
A group of Wellesley “jinglers” dressed for the season and showed their support during last weekend’s Jingle Run/Walk.
GARY WEST
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Wellesley council reinstates annual funding for Wellesley Township Fall Fair
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
At their second 2026 budget meeting Dec. 4, Wellesley councillors agreed to reinstate annual support for the Wellesley Township Fall Fair to the tune of $1,500 after representatives from the organizing group, the Wellesley North Easthope Agricultural Society, made an official budget request at the end of November.
Though the agricultural society representatives requested support exceeding the $1,500 previously provided by the township annually in support of the fair, council voted to budget the same amount annually over the next five years to help organizers close a funding gap between what it costs to put on the fair every year and how much is raised.
“I can support this,” Mayor Joe Nowak said. “I think it was interesting when they made the presentation how they addressed each one of the councillors and sort of brought out how the fair has contributed to each of our (communities). It’s their way of bringing down some of the silos that exist in the township. I think it’s a great community event and this was their second year they were at the new (recreation) complex, so they’re still growing and there were some issues that they had to manage. They didn’t go with the carousels and that kind of thing, and I think there was some pushback on that, so they’re learning.
“I’m sure they’re going to be coming up with some new initiatives as well. I think
all the support we can give them is very worthwhile for the community as a whole, not just for the Village (of Wellesley).”
During the discussion, township staff noted the township also provide free facility rentals, staff assistance with setup for the fair and support to the fair board for five meetings each year.
The annual $1,500 contribution to the fair will come from the township’s existing proposed $3,000 donations budget for 2026 and will not have an impact on the proposed levy, which still sat at a 4.99 percent increase over this year’s levy by the end of the Dec. 4 budget meeting.
A second budget request for $5,000 in annual funding support made by the Immigration Partnership of Waterloo Region at the end of October will not be included in the township’s 2026 budget.
Speaking to the request for support of the organization’s new shared priorities and to help address a recent federal funding cut to the organization by $230,000, Nowak said support for the organization should come from the Region of Waterloo and not from the individual townships.
To date, township staff told council none of the region’s member municipalities have included the budget request in their 2026 budgets.
Council to consider restoring greening levy to 0.75 per cent, and looks to reduce overall levy
Though township staff had recommended reducing the annual greening levy – funds levied from ratepayers to
combat climate change and support greenhouse-gas-emission reduction efforts locally – from 0.75 per cent in 2025 to just 0.5 per cent or nearly $43,000 next year, Coun. Derek Brick told his fellow councillors he wanted to explore the notion of keeping the greening levy at 0.75 per cent or nearly $64,000 for next year.
“My thought would be that we maintain that 0.75 per-cent levy,” Brick said. “I know we always tell (staff) to bring it down and here I am saying move it up, but my thoughts on that are we have the levy in place, we’re building a fund. We know that nothing in the climate-change industry is cheap. We have (greenhouse gas reduction) commitments and they’ve been brought up many times that they are going to be pretty hard to achieve by the longterm targets. We’re not going to change our targets with this levy, but I think we can offer more.
“I think building that fund can build us up for more tree giveaways, more greening initiatives. To drop it by 0.25 per cent; I think it might be a bit premature.”
According to CAO Rik Louwagie, the township has been collecting a greening levy as part of the overall levy for the past five years. Though the funding has been used sparingly on initiatives like tree giveaways and to cover the additional cost of replacing a township vehicle with an electric model, much of the money collected remains in reserve for “green” components of future capital projects.
For 2026, Louwagie said
staff proposed reducing that levy to 0.5 per cent because of the township’s proposal to increase its contributions to capital reserves by more than $600,000 as part of an asset-management plan prepared by Watson and Associates that will help the township address an infrastructure funding deficit over the next decade.
Doing some quick math at the Dec. 4 meeting, township director of corporate services Jeff Dyck told councillors increasing the proposed greening levy back up to 0.75 per cent would see the proposed overall levy increase jump by roughly $20,000 from 4.99 per cent to 5.25 per cent.
As some councillors said they were already looking to reduce next year’s proposed overall levy increase down from that original 4.99 per cent, Brick opened the floor to discussion as to how council could do that. Suggestions included modifying or reducing the scope of planned capital projects or even reducing the proposed cost-of-living increase for township staff from 3.2 per cent to two per cent, as suggested by Coun. Shelley Wagner.
Louwagie and Dyck asked council to allow staff some time to bring back options as to how to reduce the levy increase before councillors make any of the above amendments to the draft 2026 budget. Those options will be presented to council at its next budget meeting on Dec. 18 starting at 5:15 p.m.
Heritage Dr, New Hamburg, ON
Perth East adopts 2026 mayor’s budget with 5.33% levy increase
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE
Gazette Reporter
The Perth East 2026 mayor’s budget was officially adopted on Dec. 9, 2025. The annual budget focuses on the township’s corporate values: progressive, service-oriented, caring, fiscally responsible, collaborative and enthusiastic.
A change this year stems from the strong mayor powers announced for Perth East and the rest of Ontario in April 2025, which altered the budget process. The mayor now has a duty to prepare and propose the budget, whereas in the past, it was prepared by staff and adopted by council at a later date.
“Council and staff continue to work hard to present reasonable budgets that ensure we are maintaining the high-quality services our residents rely on every day,” said Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz. “We never lose sight of the financial impact property taxes have on residents and businesses.”
With a capital budget of $8.6 million, this year’s key projects include ongoing updates to the Shakespeare water treatment facility costing $2 million; replacement of
self-contained breathing apparatus for firefighters at $1 million; tandem and tri-axle vehicle replacements for public works at $685,000; replacement of a water well in Milverton at $450,000; and road paving and rehabilitation costing $1.6 million.
“The 2026 budget supports continued investment in key services such as roads, bridges, parks, recreation, emergency services and community programs,” said Ehgoetz. “I am confident this balanced budget delivers real value to our residents, allowing us to maintain what we have as a community while managing growth pressures in a responsible manner.”
The year-over-year levy increase is 5.33 per cent, meaning the after-assessment growth is 3.76 per cent. For a typical single-family home, that translates to a $92 year-over-year change for the Perth East portion of property taxes.
An 11 per cent increase in OPP, policing fees was also a factor for the 2026 budget. The Ontario government capped policing cost hikes for 2026 after many municipalities saw 20-30 per-cent increases in 2025. The cap is meant to ease budget pressures for the more than 330 communities that
rely on the OPP, though many still face tax impacts and are calling for longer-term solutions.
“We had budgeted for, and it’s been confirmed, that our cost contributions towards OPP in our community are going up 11 per cent year over year, which is significant,” said Perth East CAO Mike Givens. “With policing costing about $1.9 million, that has a significant impact on our budget.”
Givens said American tariffs and U.S.linked material and equipment costs are also a key driver behind ongoing budget pressure, even as other inflation pressures stabilize.
“Although we’re a small southwestern Ontario community, we are still seeing tax as it relates to costing for a lot of our capital projects,” he said. “Anything related to fire services, any materials that we historically relied on the United States for, we’re seeing significant cost increases around that.”
Perth East has a healthy reserve fund, which helps support major capital projects and manage rising costs while keeping this year’s levy increase low. This financial cushion allows the township to manage
large projects without resorting to steeper tax hikes.
“We maintained a healthy reserve. That’s always been a goal of ours; to be prepared,” said Givens. “We have around $20 million on our broad reserve numbers, which is healthy and something that we’re proud to continue to maintain.”
Under the strong mayor powers, it was up to the mayor to present this year’s budget. The process began in July with the mayor’s budget visioning meeting, held to gather public, staff and council priorities. This included feedback from the public and the council budget survey.
Township staff presented their prepared operations budget to council in October. In November, staff presented the capital budget. On Nov. 24, Ehgoetz released the 2026 mayor’s budget to council members, which became available to the public on Dec. 1.
Council was given 15 days, from Nov. 24 to Dec. 8, to propose amendments; however, none were put forward. The mayor’s budget was adopted on Dec. 9.
Christmas Bazaar brings festive cheer to The Maples Home for Seniors
The Maples Home for Seniors in Tavistock was buzzing with holiday spirit on Saturday as residents, family members and community visitors filled the first floor for the home’s annual Christmas Bazaar.
The event proved to be one of the most successful in recent years, offering a warm and joyful start to the holiday season.
Event organizer Sheila Thorne said she was thrilled with the turnout.
“The day was overwhelmingly successful,” she said. “We’re so grateful to everyone who donated items, helped organize the event, or came out to support us. We hope to see everyone again next year.”
Tables were filled with handcrafted items, festive décor, baked goods and
unique gift ideas, each created or contributed to support the Maples community. Staff and residents worked together to prepare the wide assortment of items, turning the event into both a celebration and a meaningful fundraiser.
The Christmas Bazaar also provided an opportunity for residents and families to connect, share memories and enjoy a cheerful atmosphere in the lead-up to Christmas. Funds raised will support the residents’ council, helping to enhance programs and activities that contribute to the wellbeing of those living at The Maples.
Santa Claus also made a special visit, greeting residents and posing for photos. For those unable to make it downstairs, Santa made room-to-room visits to ensure no one was left off his Christmas list.
Visitors browse tables filled with handcrafted items, baked goods and festive décor during the annual Christmas Bazaar at The Maples Home for Seniors in Tavistock.
Santa Claus made a special appearance at The Maples on Saturday, greeting staff and residents during the Christmas Bazaar before visiting those who were unable to leave their rooms.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Perth County plows work overtime as weekend storm reduces visibility New Hamburg man claims another win in Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade draw
High winds and steady snowfall on Sunday kept Perth County road crews busy as drifting snow created hazardous conditions across sideroads and highways.
Operators reported particularly challenging conditions along Highway 59 between Shakespeare and Tavistock, where visibility dropped sharply at times and the road surface became snow-covered and tightly packed.
One of the most troublesome areas was
the hill on Perth Road 107 just north of Shakespeare, a stretch known for drifting during winter storms. Fresh snow blowing across the ridge made the roadway treacherous from the hilltop all the way north toward Amulree.
Local snowmobilers, meanwhile, have taken the early season accumulation as a welcome sign. With fields across the region turning white and temperatures staying cold, riders are eagerly preparing for what could be a strong start to the winter season.
Wayne Simpson of New Hamburg has done it again, adding another $550 to his bank account after winning the monthly 50/50 cash raffle held by the Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade.
Simpson has become something of a perennial winner, but he says there’s no mystery to it – he simply participates every month. He laughed as he shared his usual advice: “If you don’t enter the draw, you can’t win.”
Simpson is well known in his neighbourhood for his willingness to help others, especially when winter weather hits.
“I’m always willing and able to help
anyone in need, especially when it comes to shovelling snow,” he said.
Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade president Peter Gingerich extended thanks to all area residents who continue to support the monthly draw. Funds raised help preserve and store historic fire equipment once used by local brigades in Baden and surrounding communities, as well as restored pieces from other areas of the country.
The volunteer-run brigade hosts an annual open house and barbecue each summer, inviting the public to explore its collection of antique fire trucks and firefighting artifacts. Gingerich hopes supporters and newcomers alike will stop by their Baden location next year to see the impressive display.
WRPS arrest two males and recover stolen vehicle in Wilmot
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) has arrested two males after locating a stolen vehicle in Wilmot Township.
On Dec. 5 at approximately 2 a.m., officers were on proactive patrol in the area of Bleams Road and Queens Street and located a vehicle stuck in the ditch, police say. Through investigation, it was determined the vehicle had been reported stolen. Officers arrested one of the males while the second male allegedly attempted to flee through a field and was also arrested.
Officers seized suspected cannabis along with stolen property that was determined to have been allegedly taken during a robbery at a Waterloo business on Nov. 28.
As a result of the investigation, a 44-year-old man was charged with:
• Breach of probation (two counts)
• Possession of stolen property over $5,000
• Trespass at night
• Robbery
A 35-year-old man was also charged with:
• Breach of probation (two counts)
• Possession of stolen property over $5,000
• Possession of cannabis over 30 grams Both accused were held for a bail hearing.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 519-570-9777 ext. 6399. Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
A Perth County snowplow clears drifts on Perth Road 107 north of Shakespeare on Sunday, where blowing snow made visibility poor and driving conditions treacherous.
Wayne Simpson of New Hamburg receives his $550 cheque from Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade member Blain Bechtold after winning this month’s 50/50 raffle draw.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
(PETER GINGERICH PHOTO)
Health unit encouraging vaccination during flu season
Cases projected to peak during the holidays
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Southwestern Public Health is urging residents to act after provincial models indicate a spike in influenza activity is projected to arrive in Ontario over the holidays.
According to data from Public Health Ontario, respiratory illness in Ontario has been increasing week over week since mid-October. The latest per-cent positivity for influenza is 18.3 per cent provincially, as of the week ending Nov. 29. Projections indicate flu activity will continue to rise from now until early January.
“We sent out the news release to heighten people’s awareness about the rising flu activity,” said Dr. Ninh Tran, medical officer of health for Elgin County, Oxford County and the City of St. Thomas. “We are urging people to get vaccinated before the peak happens.”
That peak, according to modelling by the provincial government, is expected to take
place right in the middle of the holidays.
“They are expecting it to peak in late December or early January. We are pushing hard on the message for people to get vaccinated now because we are right in the middle of the flu season, added Tran.
The health unit’s contagious disease dashboard is located on its website and the current risk in the area is listed as high. Tran said the public should remember the numbers represent data from the preceding week.
Some health experts in Canada, including at York University, warned circulating flu viruses may differ from the strains included in the available vaccine, meaning one component, the H3N2 strain, may not be a perfect match. Tran said that doesn’t mean people should be hesitant to receive the shot.
“The flu shot is developed to try and predict the most common strains. Some years, it’s designed and matches up perfectly, but other years it doesn’t quite match,” he explained. “Even if we don’t get the exact
strain, there is going to be some cross-protection. We can’t tell until the season is over as to how effective it is, but it will provide some level of protection against hospitalizations and deaths.”
Noting the flu vaccine requires approximately two weeks to become fully effective, he urged residents to plan accordingly.
“We are a little over two weeks from the holidays, so this week is a really good time to get vaccinated,” Tran said, adding there are several actions people can take right now to lessen the impact of respiratory illnesses on themselves and their loved ones over the holidays.
“It comes down to the three principles of public health: protection, prevention and promotion. When combined, these actions have the greatest opportunity for a healthy holiday season.”
For protection, residents are encouraged to get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19, which are both currently circulating locally. People are also encouraged to seek RSV vaccination if they are
eligible.
Southwestern Public Health offers eligible vaccinations to children aged five and under and their families. Appointments can be booked at www.swpublichealth. ca/booking. All other residents can speak with their health-care providers or a local participating pharmacy about vaccine availability and eligibility.
“Preventing respiratory illnesses means washing hands frequently, staying home when ill, cleaning high-touch surfaces, and covering coughs and sneezes,” a healthunit press release says. “Consider masking when in crowds if you have respiratory symptoms, or when visiting vulnerable individuals, such as young babies or elderly loved ones. Finally, promote healthy habits this season through adequate nutrition intake, being physically active, staying hydrated and bringing fresh air into your home.”
Resources about local respiratory activity, vaccination and disease prevention can be found at www.swpublichealth.ca.
paying nearly 10 per cent more for policing next year
Mayor and staff working on first-ever Strong Mayor budget
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has delivered its 2026 invoice to East ZorraTavistock (EZT), revealing a sharp increase compared with 2025.
The cost of policing in the township is rising by just under $113,000, or an increase of 9.95 per cent.
“This means our budget deliberations will be at a levy increase of 1.34 per cent right out of the gate, before other expenses are considered,” said Mayor Phil Schaefer.
Municipalities using OPP services will see their 2026 bills rise by no more than 11 per cent compared to 2025 under a provincial cap. The cap is part of a revised cost-recovery and billing model designed to give municipalities more predictability and prevent sudden, steep increases. The province has set aside $77 million to help offset higher costs next year.
The cap is only for 2026. Without further reforms or funding support, municipalities could still face volatility in subsequent years, especially if policing costs continue rising.
According to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), OPP costs have risen sharply year after year due to a combination of labour costs, changes to the billing structure and growing service demands, with salaries and benefits
Cost of OPP policing in East Zorra-Tavistock over
the last five years
hike but taxpayers won’t be affected.
“We put the money from last year’s adjustment into reserves after we absorbed the higher increase in 2025, so we don’t have to absorb it in 2026,” Larder said.
The issue of policing costs will be discussed at the EZT and Zorra regular council meetings next week.
East Zorra-Tavistock traditionally releases its budget every spring, but Schaefer is responsible for the document under Strong Mayor Powers, meaning it must be tabled before the end of January.
“I have delegated the budget to staff; however, I will be actively involved with senior staff in the formulation of the budget from beginning to end. Work will commence on that early in the new year.”
Staff will meet in late January and will include the mayor in the development process as part of this year’s and all future budget cycles.
accounting for most of the increase.
Wages, benefits and pensions make up the bulk of OPP costs. Recent arbitrated collective agreements awarded OPP officers significant raises, including retroactive pay, and municipalities are required to absorb those costs because Ontario operates the OPP on a full cost-recovery model.
Over the past several years, the province
has phased out subsidies and discounts that once helped keep OPP bills lower, and changes to the billing formula have shifted more costs directly onto municipalities, especially smaller and rural ones.
Municipalities were given funding to offset some of the 2025 increase in OPP costs, but in the case of Zorra Township, its budget was already approved. CAO Diane Larder said they did receive an 11 per cent
Council has 30 days to review and, if desired, pass resolutions to amend the proposed budget. After those 30 days, the mayor has 10 days to veto any amendments passed by council. If no amendments are made, or if any amendments are not vetoed/are overridden, the budget is deemed adopted, meaning it becomes operative based on the timeline, rather than through a traditional bylaw approval process.
Buggy horses find comfort and care while owners work at Park’s Livestock
Drivers passing through the Milverton area are used to seeing Mennonite and Amish horse-drawn buggies on the roads, each marked with a slow-moving vehicle triangle and equipped with bright, battery-powered lights for visibility.
As the days grow shorter, those lights become even more noticeable, glowing red at the rear and guiding the way at the front.
Anyone familiar with buggy horses knows how well these animals are cared for. Their coats shine, their feet are meticulously trimmed and many have the high action and elegant movement that comes from a touch of hackney breeding. For their owners, a dependable horse and buggy is an essential mode of transportation – an investment comparable to the cost of a used car.
At Park’s Livestock, just north of
Milverton, that respect for the animals extends beyond the buggy ride. Two young Mennonite employees who work in the hog-sorting facility now have access to a small shelter beside the parking lot, built specifically to house up to three horses. The horses spend the workday blanketed, fed and sheltered while their owners sort pigs moving in and out of the modern operation.
Manager Hayden Parks says he appreciates the reliable help from the local Mennonite community, noting the workers’ calm and gentle approach to handling livestock, a standard valued by farmers and buyers alike.
Park’s Livestock opened its Milverton facility this past summer and has quickly filled a gap in the regional hog market, providing a needed service for the many large swine operations across Perth County – long known as one of Canada’s leading pork-producing regions.
Two blanketed Standardbred buggy horses rest comfortably in the small barn beside Park’s Livestock north of Milverton, where they spend the day while their owners work in the hog-sorting facility.
One of the buggies used by the young Mennonite workers at Park’s Livestock. Their horses relax in the adjacent barn, built specifically to shelter them during the workday
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Farmers catch the last window for fall plowing in South Easthope
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Two South Easthope Township farmers made the most of a narrow weather window Tuesday afternoon as light snow fell across Line 29 west of Sebastopol. Working side by side, Jim McGregor and Andrew Danen were busy turning over the top four inches of soil, taking advantage of conditions that were still favourable for late-season plowing.
Both farmers were running seven-furrow Kverneland plows, known for producing an even, well-turned furrow – an important step toward smooth spring cultivation. With fresh snow helping keep frost from setting into the ground, the work was progressing well for both operators.
McGregor, driving his red Case IH fourwheel-drive tractor, said he enjoys the quiet rhythm of fall plowing.
“Except for the odd local reporter, the solitude makes you think of the close-toperfect country we live and farm in,” he said with a smile.
Just across the property line, Danen was striking out a new furrow with his fourwheel-drive John Deere and matching Kverneland plow. He admits this continues to be one of his favourite jobs of the year – even if the early snowfall arrived a bit sooner than expected.
A giant snowman turns heads in Shakespeare
work when the photo was taken, takes on the challenge each year of building the biggest snowman he can – a tradition the family loves to share with the community.
Drivers making their way down William Shakespeare Street in the village of Shakespeare may find themselves stopping for a second look – and with good reason.
The Wesley Johnston family has once again built one of the tallest and widest snowmen the village has ever seen.
Towering roughly 13 feet high, the snowman was rolled together during last
week’s stretch of perfect packing snow. Wesley Johnston has a reputation for going big, and this year’s frosty figure didn’t disappoint. He said last winter’s version was even taller thanks to a helping hand from a neighbour.
The massive creation has quickly become a roadside attraction, prompting double takes from motorists and plenty of smiles from those passing by. It’s far from an ordinary snowman – more like a landmark of winter enthusiasm on display weeks before Christmas.
Huron-Perth school boards highlight strengths amid Ontario’s low math scores
After recent reports that nearly half of Ontario’s Grade 6 students failed to meet the provincial standard in math, the Huron Perth Catholic District School Board (HPCDSB) and the Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) say it’s not all bad news.
Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra released the latest Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) testing data, noting only 51 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in math this school year.
“When I got results, it frustrated me
and made me quite upset,” Calandra said during a press conference early this month. “If we were doing it right, then we wouldn’t have 50 per cent of our students not meeting provincial benchmarks.”
In a media release, the HPCDSB said 68 per cent of its students in the primary division met the provincial standard in math, 55 per cent of junior division students met the standard and 51 per cent of Grade 9 students achieved the standard.
The AMDSB reported that 67 per cent of Grade 3 students met the provincial math standard, 52 per cent of Grade 6 students met the standard and 47 per cent of Grade 9 students met the standard.
Though math scores throughout the province were not as strong as expected, both AMDSB and HPCDSB say results show improvement that exceeds provincial standards in reading, writing and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
The AMDSB reported improvement across all eight measures, with some increasing by as much as 11 per cent over the previous year.
The HPCDSB said it is proud of its ongoing focus on student achievement, which continues to be reflected in test results. The board also reported having one of the highest participation rates in the province.
Both boards note these results are just one of many assessment tools used to measure and support student achievement. They add that the data represents a snapshot in time and is most useful when examined as part of long-term trends.
“Our EQAO results reflect the hard work of students and staff as they continue to progress toward excellence in literacy and mathematics,” said Mary Helen Van Loon, chair of the HPCDSB. “We are proud of their achievements but recognize there is still work to be done. As a board, we remain diligent in our efforts to provide the support and resources necessary to reach these goals.”
Sarah Johnston and daughter Bella stand proudly beside the family’s 13-foot snowman on William Shakespeare Street. Wesley Johnston, who was at
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Sebastopol’s Jim McGregor works through light snowfall with his Case IH four-wheeldrive and seven-furrow Kverneland plow, making the most of late-season conditions in South Easthope Township.
Next door, Andrew Danen begins a new furrow with his John Deere four-wheel-drive and Kverneland plow, continuing a fall task he calls one of his favourites of the year.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Waterloo Region School Boards both highlight strengths amid Ontario’s low math scores
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE Gazette Reporter
After recent reports that nearly half of Ontario’s Grade 6 students failed to meet the provincial standard in math, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) report it’s not all bad news.
Ontario Education Minister Paul Calandra released the latest Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) testing data, noting that only 51 per cent of Grade 6 students met the provincial standard in math this school year.
“When I got results, it frustrated me and made me quite upset,” Calandra said during a press conference early this month. “If we were doing it right, then we wouldn’t have 50 per cent of our students not meeting provincial benchmarks.”
In a media release, the WRDSB said 62 per cent of its students in the primary division met the provincial standard in math, 52 per cent of junior division students met the standard and 62 per cent of Grade 9 students achieved the standard.
The WCDSB reported that 65 per cent of primary students met the provincial math standard, 53 per cent of junior students met the standard and 53 per cent of Grade
9 students met the standard.
Though math scores throughout the province were not as strong as expected, both WRDSB and WCDSB say results show improvement that is on par or exceeds provincial standards in reading, writing and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
WRDSB students performed at or above the 2023-2024 results and say the results of the assessments provide them with valuable data to help determine areas of focus for the future.
Both boards note these results are just one of many assessment tools used to measure and support student achievement.
They add the data represents a snapshot in time and is most useful when examined as part of long-term trends.
“The outcomes reflected in the 20242025 EQAO results reinforce our commitment to the strategies that we have in place to continue to support students’ academic achievement,” read the WRDSB press release. “The WRDSB Strategic Spending Plan for 2025-2026 and 20262027 will allow additional investment in improved student outcomes in literacy and math, with a focus on further enhancing in-school supports who work directly with students and classroom educators.”
TAP seeing increased demand for services but decreased donations
Organization looking for new volunteers
The Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP) has supported individuals or families 146 times, to date, in 2025.
TAP was established in 2009 as an act of caring and compassion by a group of community members. They sought to offer help and hope to those who needed a hand up. It is funded through the generosity of donations, which provide short-term, emergency or temporary support to people living in the communities of Tavistock, Hickson and Shakespeare.
Program director Angela Brenner said nine new clients have received help this year.
“Since 2020, TAP’s service volume has increased by 108 per cent. Our most requested support remains grocery cards, gas cards for important appointments, onetime rent support and utility assistance.”
Requests for assistance with medical items and prescriptions, mobility aids and specialized equipment continue to increase. New this year was a significant number of requests for school snacks and healthy food to support school lunches.
“TAP is aware that good nutrition and full tummies are key for success in school, and we are aware that families who are not able to provide lunches often keep children home from school. We will continue to support families with children who are increasingly struggling to find dollars in their budget for increasing food costs,” said Brenner.
In November, the organization received some shelf space at the Tavistock Library. On those shelves are food hampers, other household items such as toilet paper, cleaning supplies, hygiene products and, when available, pet food, small toys available for gifts and hats and gloves. These items will be available while supplies last and restocked regularly.
“We are excited about this initiative and have seen significant use over the four
weeks the program has been operational. We are very appreciative of the connection we have made with library staff and are grateful for their support,” Brenner said.
TAP, like many other charitable groups, has seen a decrease in donations this year. Brenner said there is no government funding, meaning they rely on the community’s generosity.
“Given that TAP is entirely community funded, we rely on generous donations from the community to continue to support our friends and neighbours. We continue to appreciate the donation of gift cards, which allow people to shop for items they enjoy, and to ensure
they are able to meet their own dietary and allergy needs.”
She added while some food items are donated each year, and these are used for emergency food hampers, TAP has limited storage space.
“We encourage people wishing to donate food items to ensure that they have not reached their expiry date at the time of donation. We have also seen an increased demand for Christmas support again this year. Each November, we match generous donors from the community with individuals and families who could use some assistance with gifts.”
Donor families are eager and work hard to shop from wish lists, making the
holidays special for the recipients.
“We are also thankful to the banks, businesses, family and friend groups, schools, community children and others, who come together to raise funds, gather items and provide care, compassion and kindness to our friends and neighbours during the holiday season and all year long,” said Brenner, who is coming up on two years in her role after spending four years as a board member.
“It is an absolute privilege to support the community and its members, to have conversations and to better understand the needs of our friends and neighbours. As someone who is deeply grateful to live and work in this incredible community, I will continue to advocate for the needs I see, for programs and services that will address root causes and to bring a voice to our community.”
She added TAP treats every story with care, every person with dignity and every need with compassion.
“We are so thankful to the community that continues to support us and, in turn, allows us to do this work.”
Many of the organization’s volunteers and supporters have been around for the full 16 years and Brenner said many of them have reached points in their lives where they are ready to dedicate more time to their hobbies, retirement and other activities.
“We are looking for individuals, adults and youth who would be interested in supporting events and activities throughout the year,” Brenner said.
Anyone interested can contact Brenner at tapisforyou@outlook.com or by phone at 519-655-3500.
“We are hoping to work throughout 2026 to increase the community’s knowledge of our program, to increase our donor base and to continue to meet the needs of our community members as they arise, providing support when possible and referring other community supports as needed.”
For anyone interested in donating, TAP is now able to accept e-transfers to tapisforyou@outlook.com.
Sending donations via cheque or e-transfer rather than PayPal allows an entire donation to reach the organization.
Angela Brenner has been the Tavistock Assistance Program’s program director for nearly two years and has seen an increase in community need but a decrease in donations in 2025.
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(? PHOTO)
Oxford County 4-H beef members shine at the 103rd Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
Oxford County’s young beef producers made their community proud at the 103rd Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, bringing home strong placings and valuable experience from one of the largest youth livestock competitions in the country.
One Oxford beef farmer once said, “If you want good, tasty, tender beef, come to
Oxford County.” This year’s 4-H results helped prove that point, with members excelling across several major showmanship and confirmation classes in deep fields of competitors.
In Junior Showmanship, Owen Pletsch advanced to the semi-finals, a strong accomplishment in a class known for its size and intensity.
In the confirmation classes, Oxford members also held their own:
• Junior Beef Commercial Yearling: Alex Haley placed seventh and Spencer Norris 11th.
• Junior Beef Shorthorn Yearling: Tyler Smith finished eighth.
• Junior Beef Simmental Calf: Flynn Reinhart placed fifth.
• Junior Beef Simmental Yearling: Owen Pletsch earned first place.
• Junior Beef Hereford Calf: Zephyra Layman-Gilbert finished fifth.
• Junior Beef Hereford Yearlings: Zach Haley placed eighth and Sam Haley ninth.
• Junior Beef Angus Calves: Nate Campbell finished third and Brady Campbell sixth.
Leaders said the group showed impressive skill and professionalism throughout the week, noting it was “a great showing for Oxford 4-H Beef Club members at this year’s 103rd edition of the Royal.”
Oxford County 4-H beef members include, front row from left: Zephyra Layman-Gilbert, Tyler Smith, Owen Pletsch, Courtney Pletsch and Brady Campbell. Back row, from left: Zach Haley, Sam Haley, Flynn Reinhart, Spencer Norris, Alex Haley and Nate Campbell.
Oxford Beef 4-H members following their classes at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Front row from left: Zephyra Layman-Gilbert, Owen Pletsch, Courtney Pletsch and Brady Campbell. Back row from left: Tyler Smith, Flynn Reinhart, Spencer Norris, Zach Haley, Alex Haley, Sam Haley and Nate Campbell.
(TERRY MUIR PHOTO)
Scotiabank staff rally community support for TAP Christmas fundraiser
With Christmas fast approaching, staff at the Tavistock Scotiabank branch are once again stepping up to support local families through their annual fundraiser for the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP).
Now in its ninth year, the initiative invites customers and community members to drop off new toys, hygiene products, gift cards for local businesses and other essential items at the downtown branch. All donations collected will be delivered to TAP to support families in need during the holiday season.
The fundraiser also includes a unique local partnership. M L
Herlick Photography is donating a portion of the proceeds from cards, calendars and photo prints sold at the branch. These items are available while supplies last and are proving to be popular gift ideas for those hard-to-buy-for folks on Christmas lists.
TAP volunteers will be picking up donations on Friday, Dec. 12. The bank will continue collecting items until then, and artwork from M L Herlick Photography will remain available through December.
Scotiabank staff say the community’s generosity has made this annual effort a success year after year, and they hope residents will once again support their neighbours through the season of givin
Project Good Tidings brings Christmas support to hundreds
difficult circumstances.
Churches across Tavistock, New Hamburg, Wellesley, Milverton and surrounding communities spend the entire year helping people in need. As Christmas approaches, that generosity grows even stronger, with congregations rallying behind donation programs that provide food, warm clothing and toys for families facing
Grace United Church in Tavistock offered a powerful example of that spirit on Sunday during its annual Project Good Tidings. Rev. Marilyn Arthur blessed hundreds of donated items that had been collected since the start of Advent. The sanctuary was filled with boxes and bags overflowing with toys, winter wear, hams, turkeys and canned goods – evidence of a community committed to caring for its neighbours.
Carol Young, Grace United’s children, youth and family coordinator, has overseen Project Good Tidings for many years. She said all donated items would be delivered Monday to the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP), as well as Shelterlink and Optimism Place in Stratford, and the Christmas Place in Woodstock. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed, noting the generosity shown each year “helps make
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Weekly Quiz
By Jake Grant
1. The Four Horsemen of the ________ appear in the Book of Revelation.
2. What is the largest 2nd Hawaiian island?
3. What year were seatbelts made mandatory in Canada?
4. What do Americans commonly call Emmental cheese?
5. The flowers on the St John’s Wort are which color?
6. Who originally sang “Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer”?
7. What year was the Toonie introduced?
8. What part of the body is affected by glaucoma?
9. What is the capital of Norway?
10. Which star guided the three kings to Baby Jesus?
Christmas happier for others” and consistently fills and overflows the collection boxes throughout the season. Sunday’s service also included the welcoming of five new members into the Grace United congregation: Bill and Billie Ross, Mary Cherry, Don Meyer and Cindy Orr.
Carol Young, Grace United’s youth coordinator, speaks to children during Sunday’s service about the importance of giving at Christmas. Project Good Tidings collected hundreds of items for families in need across the region.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Tavistock’s Scotiabank employees are once again supporting the TAP Christmas fundraiser. From left, Margaret Herlick, customer experience lead; kneeling, Ellen Hurley, financial advisor; and Nichelle Horst, senior customer experience associate.
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
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)
By Stewart 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.
December 9-16, 2020, Edition (5 years ago)
Patrons lined the highway south of Hickson on Friday and Saturday nights to take in the first local Outdoor Christmas Market sponsored by Terra Nova Therapy Spa and Café. Owner/operators Jodi Pendry and Pete Overdevest said they didn’t know what to expect with their first venture. Their goal was trying to meet all public health safety measures with physical distancing of the more than 40 vendors and the limit of 100 patrons onsite at one time.
Curling in Tavistock is the most recent victim of COVID-19. At an executive meeting on Nov. 24, the curling club decided to cancel the 2020-2021 season. The club needed a minimum of 65 members to sign up for a shortened season beginning Jan. 1, 2021, to make the year viable, but only 21 members submitted registrations.
Team Unity competed in the 2020 Porter Classic Pandemonium virtual skating competition hosted in Ann Arbor, Mich., by submitting two of their elements. The team earned gold for the Intermediate No-Hold Element and silver for the Intermediate Twizzle Element.
December 8-15, 2010, Edition (15 years ago)
Mackenzie Kalbfleisch had a fourpoint night this past Friday against the Port Dover Sailors as the Tavistock Braves defeated their opponents 7-2.
The Braves remain in the top spot in the Southern Ontario Junior Hockey League with a 17-2-0 record.
Losi Riehl, administrator and director of nursing at The Maples Home for Seniors, will retire on Dec. 31, 2010, after 32 years at the facility.
The new East Zorra-Tavistock municipal council held its inaugural meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010, in Hickson. Council is comprised of Mayor Don McKay, deputy mayor Maureen Ralph and councillors Clive Lawry, Linda Fulton, Don MacDonald, Don Lazenby and Jeremy Smith.
The Scotiabank 10th annual Toy Drive for the Oxford County Children’s Aid Society wrapped up last week with enough toys and goods to provide for 10 local families and 30 children this holiday season.
December 13-20, 1995, Edition (30 years ago)
The first annual “Heart of Gold” award for Caressant Care Nursing Home of Canada Ltd. staff was handed out last week with Mrs. Geoline Bender of Tavistock receiving the honour.
Students of grades four to six at Tavistock Public School presented December in Our Town, a multicultural celebration of the season last Wednesday evening, Dec. 13. Members of the cast included Erin McClintock, Jane Fuhr, Amanda Bender, Brad Witzel, Brittany Zehr, Ryan Walkom and Garrett Zehr.
The Maples Home for Seniors recently opened their new retirement addition and a native South Easthope man is the first to take up residence. Mr. Stan Reibling had the honour of being the first to settle in a room in the 27-room addition at 94 William St. S. At present, about 16 people are living in the new facility.
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? Text or Call: (519) 655-2413 tavistockbc.org
Family Bible Hour - 11am Each Sunday
ST. PAUL’S LUTHERAN LCC
Church Phone 519-276-0701
Wellington Street, Tavistock stpaulstavistock@gmail.com
Pastor Rev. Michael Mayer Christmas Eve Service, December 24 at 2p.m.
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
Please join us for Advent & Christmas! December 14 @ 10:15am - Third Sunday of Advent December 14 @ 7:00pm - Nine Lessons & Carols with fellowship and refreshments
December 21 @ 10:15am - Fourth Sunday of Advent with Christmas pageant and potluck December 24 @ 6:30pm - Hymn Sing December 24 @ 7:00pm - Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
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
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
PJHL Roundup: Firebirds down Navy Vets to move into third
LEE GRIFFI Gazette Correspondent
New Hamburg may have dropped its first game of the weekend at home, but the Firebirds roared back with a road victory over division-leading Woodstock on Saturday night to take sole possession of third place in the Doherty Division.
New Hamburg led 2-0 after the first period on goals from Jordan Jacobs and Ben Oliver. The Navy Vets cut the lead to 2-1 with a second-period marker, but Rhett Calder’s shorthanded marker early in the third frame sealed the win for the Firebirds. The win snapped Woodstock’s five-game win streak and put New Hamburg seven points out of first place with three games in hand.
“It was a big win for us,” said Firebirds captain Andrew Gear. “I learned pretty quickly in this league that going to Woodstock isn’t an easy place to win. They pretty much pack that place and they are a top team this year. It was a game we had circled on our schedule and we wanted to make a statement to the rest of the league.”
Gear added the win has given the Firebirds a sense of confidence and something they can carry into this Friday’s game when they host the Navy Vets.
New Hamburg dropped a 3-2 decision to Wellesley on Friday night in a shootout that could be described as one of
the oddest games of the Provincial Junior Hockey League (PJHL) season. Each team sent eight shooters to centre ice, and Applejacks forward Ryan Brenton was the only player to find the back of the net, beating Firebirds goalie Deklan Jermol. Jacobs forced overtime after he scored with 16 seconds remaining in regulation time. Jayden Fischer also scored for New Hamburg while Brenton and Ian Speiran responded for Wellesley.
Gear said any time Wellesley and New Hamburg battle, it’s a special night, but he’s never seen anything like a 16-player shootout.
“There was some extra motivation there and it was also our Teddy Bear (Toss)
“Metz was here for a few years and a few championships. I’ve known Stevo for a long time and played high school hockey against him. A lot of the guys in our room are familiar with him, and you could tell from his first weekend with us that he wants to be here. He brings a skillset and a personality that will be beneficial to our team.”
The Applejacks’ second game of the weekend was in Paris where they dropped a 5-3 decision to the Titans. Wellesley led 3-2 after 40 minutes but gave up three straight goals in the third. Ben Morton, Hudson Parker and Kian Harron scored in a losing effort.
night,” Gear said. “It was great to see the community support us, and it would have been great to get a better result and win the shootout, but it was a fun game to be a part of.
“For the younger guys, it’s a look at what playoff hockey is like. It was a tight-checking game with a lot of people in the stands. There was a lot of pressure and it meant a lot to everyone involved.”
Tavistock and New Hamburg completed a trade last week as the Braves sent Stephen Peppas to the Firebirds in exchange for Keegan Metcalf. Gear said it’s never easy to see a teammate leave the fold but he’s looking forward to his new teammate contributing.
Tavistock split its two games, beginning with a 5-2 loss at home to Woodstock. Jacob Reid-Brant gave the Braves a 1-0 lead just over three minutes into the first period but the Navy Vets scored the next three goals and held a 3-1 lead seven minutes into the third frame. Yann Raskin’s 17th of the season gave Tavistock hope but Woodstock would add a pair of insurance markers to seal the two points.
On Sunday, the Braves bounced back with a 5-2 win in Hespeler. Captain Marc Dionne led the way with a three-goal performance with Raskin adding a goal and an assist. Evan Palubeski and Carson Bernhardt, who played in his 100th game in a Tavistock uniform, added two helpers apiece.
Wellesley Applejacks fans flood the ice with teddy bears during the team’s Teddy Bear Toss game on Dec. 6. Ben Morton scored the Applejacks’ first goal to bring the bears flying onto the ice. Wellesley lost the game 5-3 to the Paris Titans.
Jayden Fischer’s goal provokes fans of the New Hamburg Firebirds to throw teddy bears onto the ice during the team’s Teddy Bear Toss game on Dec. 5. The Firebirds lost the game 3-2 in a shootout to the Wellesley Applejacks.
Deklan Jermol makes one of his 44 saves on a shot by Luke Schofield during the New Hamburg Firebirds’ 3-2 shootout loss to the Wellesley Applejacks on Dec. 5.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTOS)
Jaxon St. Croix shoots the puck on goal from the blueline during the U12 Minor A New Hamburg Huskies game last Thursday.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
Gavin Reeves rockets a long-range shot during the U11 LL 2 Tavistock Titans game this past Monday.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
Brody Pearson blasts a heavy shot on target during last Wednesday’s U9 MD Tavistock Titans game.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
Spencer Reis launches a wrist shot off the rush during the U18 LL Tavistock Titans game last Wednesday.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
Jackson Jamieson fires the puck towards the net from along the boards during this past Sunday’s U11 LL 1 New Hamburg Huskies game.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
Hayden Doerbecker releases the puck for a scoring chance during last Thursday’s U18 A New Hamburg Jr. Firebirds game.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTO)
WODSS boys basketball teams battle GPSS
WODSS senior girls volleyball team faces LHSS
Pictured on the left, Carson Gilmore handles the ball just inside the arc during the W-ODSS senior boys basketball team’s game against GPSS on Dec. 2. On the right, Dexton Vinke, who scored nine points for WODSS in the game, pushes the ball up the court.
Pictured on the left is Ava Hanson diving to keep the ball in play while Allina Meuleman tracks the play during the W-ODSS senior girls volleyball team’s game against Laurel Heights Secondary School (LHSS) from Waterloo. Pictured on the right is Amaya Snyder bumping the ball while Scarlet Christensen stands ready at the net.
Pictured on the left, Colin Callaghan drives into the key with the ball during the Waterloo-Oxford District Secondary School (W-ODSS) junior boys basketball team’s game against Glenview Park Secondary (GPSS) on Dec. 2. On the right, Kato Numekevor dribbles the ball in the offensive zone. Numekevor scored 18 points, and Callaghan scored 10 in the game.
(ALEC RICHARD PHOTOS)
Tavistock celebrates 16th annual Synchro Skating Gala
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
All 11 of Tavistock’s Team Unity synchronized skating teams took to the ice on Saturday, Dec. 5, for the annual Team Unity Gala.
The Gala began with the Canadian National Anthem performed by Bria Moore. This year marks the 16th annual Team Unity Gala.
The gala gives each team a chance to present their programs to family and friends as they prepare for a busy
competitive season. It’s also a great opportunity for fans to cheer them on and show their support.
Coach Tara Wilken has been coaching synchronized skating in Tavistock for 16 years. She originally came to Tavistock to coach just one team, but since then, the program has grown with 11 teams proudly representing the Tavistock Skating Club this season.
Tavistock Team Unity skaters are preparing for their first competition of the season, taking place Dec. 12-14 in Woodstock.
Royals drop fourth straight game
LEE GRIFFI Gazette Correspondent
After winning six of their first seven Ontario Elite Hockey League (OEHL) games, Tavistock has dropped four straight following a 6-5 home-ice loss to Elora on Saturday night.
The Rock jumped out to a 2-0 lead before the game was three minutes old, but Trevor Sauder and Mitch Atkins scored first-period goals just 12 seconds apart to pull the Royals even. Elora took a 4-2
lead before goals from Michael Capicotto and Callan Christner tied it up again heading into the third period. The Rock took a 5-4 lead before Christner’s second of the game, but Elora scored the game-winner just past the halfway point.
Next action for Tavistock is a rematch in Elora on Friday night, then a home tilt against the Petrolia Squires on Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The Royals held a fundraiser recently to support the purchase of a new team bus.
Team president Kyle Wynette said it was a huge success.
“We raised just over $6,000. The community support was tremendous for the event, and the kids’ portion was also well attended. It was a great opportunity for our players to interact with our young fans and something we might look to do as an annual event.”
Wynette said the team has been able to purchase a bus, and it will be on the road for this Friday’s game in Elora. He added
the team has another big night planned for this Saturday at home.
“We’re having our annual Kids Night against Petrolia. We’re giving away several gifts this year, including two youth scooters. We are also asking the community to bring gifts of cash or gift cards in support of the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP), which will be collected at the door. TAP is a great resource in our community, and we’ve once again partnered with them to help collect donations.”
Team Unity’s Beginner Team kicked off the 16th annual Team Unity Gala with a crowd-pleasing routine.
(DIANE DANEN PHOTO)
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Eating sugar is unhealthy, so why are dates a good snack?
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold
This is a great question. Sugar is enemy number one. A quick reminder why; sugar can lead to gaining weight. Excess weight has a trickle-down effect throughout the body, and not a positive one. From contributing to fatty liver disease, high blood pressure and LDL to heart disease and cancer, kicking sugar is significant.
In simple terms, sugar leads to inflammation throughout the body. Without getting too scientific, there are monosaccharides and disaccharides, two categories of sugar naturally occurring in food. Added sugar is the worst offender and there’s slews of sweeteners to get hooked on. Search the web and prepare to be shocked at how many names for sugar the food industry uses to fool the public. Yes, avoiding or at least limiting all added sugar, whether from a tree, cactus, hive or lab, is in your best interest. Even the smallest
I
amount of sugar impacts health.
Make a date with dates. Dates are a phenomenal fruit, growing on a date palm tree in tropical areas all over the world. There are over 600 varieties, though only 10-15 are common and most stores carry the top three sellers.
High in sugar, yes, but the key is all the fabulous fiber, offsetting the scary spike sugar causes. This holistic nutritionist loves dates for reams of reasons. Honey and Deglet Noor are common varieties, but in this health expert’s opinion, Medjool dates are magical.
Dates are nutrient-dense. Eating two to three daily is part of a menu-based, body-boosting restorative ritual.
Dates are fabulously fiberfilled and prebiotic rich, restoring microbial balance. Gut health is key to a strong immune system. Studies show stool frequency
improves by eating dates. The fabulous fiber also supports blood-sugar control, leaving the fabulous fruit low on the glycemic index.
Dates are antioxidant allstars containing flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolic acid. Antioxidants help reduce inflammation by fighting free radicals. Dates are higher than another first-class exotic fruit, the fig.
A fun fact about this phenomenal fruit; studies showed pregnant people consuming 7076 grams of the delightful dates starting at week 37 were in active labour for four hours less than non-date-eating pregnant people. Dates contain lots of potassium, magnesium and copper.
The sweetness and close caramel flavour of dates make them a go-to in all my recipes, pre-workout pick-me-ups and snacks on the go.
Baking a bounty? Substitute the slew of sugar types recipes call for by using date paste. It’s a straight swap. The ratio is one to one. Soak a pound of Medjool dates in boiling water for approximately 30 minutes. Drain and remove the nub and pit. Place your dates in a food processor and pulse into smaller chunks. Slowly add in up to a cup of water, creating a
and everyday healthy eating.
paste. Depending on the recipe, swap the water for plant-based beverages. I love using coconut milk for a tropical twist in my lemon loaf. Use the paste to create energy balls. Combine with shredded coconut or carrot, nut butters and protein powder or almond flour to create quick, on-the-go snacks. Energy balls are an inexpensive way to dump commercial protein and granola bars.
With holiday festivities in full swing, appetizers can be eye-catching, healthy and free of many food sensitivities and allergies. Dates are dreamy.
think I’m ready for winter. Bring it on!
FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
By Galen Simmons
It may seem silly to say this when we’ve been blanketed with snow for several weeks, but I think I’m finally ready to admit winter is here to stay.
Though it feels like I only just admitted to myself fall had arrived and summer was over, I realized early on this year, after last winter’s deluge of snow and ice, the inevitable cold and snowy weather would arrive faster than I’d prefer.
In stark contrast to last winter, when Julia and I were forced to
move at the end of January and we had no time to prepare our new home for winter, this year, we’ve done everything we can to prepare, no matter how much snow falls or how cold it gets. Throughout the course of the year, and with the help of Julia’s dad, we made a few small but important upgrades to our home.
First and foremost, we built a new fence and gate, and installed a doggy door, that allows our dogs safe passage to and from the backyard to do their doggy business
whenever they like. No more lacing up my boots, zipping up my coat and bundling up with gloves, toque and scarf to take them out when it’s cold enough to freeze tea as soon as it leaves the kettle (if you catch my drift).
Secondly, we reinforced our existing backyard fencing with wooden supports. It wasn’t long after we moved in last winter when we noticed the fences were leaning at an alarming angle – a problem that only got worse as the wind raged and snow continued to pile up. Whoever installed our fences used those stupid metal spikes to anchor the fence poles into the ground. We may need to replace our fence at some point, but for now, at least, we’re confident they’ll survive at least a few more winters.
We also got a new furnace. While this upgrade was more of a serendipitous happenstance – it was replaced as part of an insurance claim for damage caused
by ice damming last winter – we took the opportunity to pay a little more for a more energy efficient furnace that has already proved to be more effective at heating the house.
The permeation of snowmelt and groundwater into our basement was also something we contended with in the spring. While we weren’t in a position to dig trenches and install a sump pump as the house inspector suggested, I did take what I like to describe as a half measure by the sealing the back wall of our basement with some waterproof paint. Sure, it’s not perfect, but I’ve already noticed our basement appears to be drier than it once was. We’ll have to wait see if it holds up against the spring melt, but I am confident the work I put in was better than doing nothing (which was my alternative at the time).
Finally, to prevent the ice damming that plagued so many homes this past winter and resulted in
To accompany a holiday toast, cut open a medjool date, add a piece of your favorite cheese, bake until melted and top with chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey. I tend to favour feta and blue cheese.
For a coffee sidekick, cut the date in half, removing the nub and pit. Place your nut of choice and a spoonful of nut butter inside. Top with melted chocolate. Choosing 85-per-cent dark chocolate offers nutrients while still being a taste sensation.
Make a dinner date with dates this holiday season and in the new year.
more than $20,000 in repairs to our home (thank you, insurance), Julia and I installed heat-tracing cables along the back of our roof. The idea, according to one electrician I spoke with, is the heated cables keep ice from forming along the edge of the roof and inside the eavestrough and downspout. This allows melting snow to drain as it normally would instead of being forced by a build-up of ice caused by heat escaping from our kitchen into the cracks and crevices of our back wall, through our windows and into the basement as it did in February.
All of that combined with an electric snowblower gifted to me for my birthday, which has already made the job of clearing the driveway easier on my shoulder, has given me the confidence to declare our home ready for whatever winter may bring.
Now, let’s see what Mother Nature can throw at us to prove me wrong!
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
Naturally sweet and packed with fiber, dates offer a nutrient-dense alternative to added sugars, making them a delicious addition to snacks, baking
Travelling through 12,000 years in a few footsteps
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
As we were slowly making our way to the summit of the citadel in Antequera, Spain, we encountered an unexpected figure: an elegantly robed, Moorish aristocrat. And, it turned out, that was exactly who he was – for the moment, anyway. He was an actor in character for a television show being filmed in a site that includes elements dating back thousands of years.
This juxtaposition of a 21st century TV crew and ancient ruins seems an apt symbol of the complexity you’ll find in Antequera, one of the many interesting places we visited during our Senior Discovery Tours sojourn in the Costa del Sol.
I am always fascinated by places where you find layer upon layer of history. I have to say that few have more on display than Antequera.
Let’s start back as far as history will allow us to go – with the Lovers’ Rock. As you stand on the hilltop that is home to the Moorish Citadel, you have a view of a rock formation that looks remarkably like the profile of a man’s face. In most circumstances, it would be called “The Sleeping Giant,” but there is a legend attached to it that gives it its actual name, the Lovers’ Rock. The name comes from a story in which a Muslim girl and her father’s Christian slave boy fell in love, fled the city, were pursued by her father and chose to leap to their deaths together rather than be separated.
However, while the rock may owe its name to this story, its historical significance dates back many centuries before the (probably fictional) lovers’ leap.
If you shift your focus to a spot closer to the citadel, you will see a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was created in the Neolithic era (10,000-2,000 BC). This is the locale of the Dolmen of Menga, “an important masterpiece of megalithic architecture” that served as a spectacular tomb millennia ago. The Dolmen can be visited today.
Turning away from the view of the dolmen, the Lovers’ Rock and the ancient city panorama, we walked past ancient walls and began the climb to the top of the
citadel.
Even here, there was an intriguing mix of historical eras. The walls were built by the Moors –the Muslim conquerors of southern Spain who ruled here for more than 700 years, finally defeated in 1492. The citadel dates back to the 11th century.
However, we couldn’t help but notice that the walls included some features that were clearly older – they were stone tablets from the time of Roman rule in Antequera. The Romans were here from a couple of centuries BC until the fifth century, and evidence of Roman times is everywhere in Antequera, including built into the Moorish walls.
Higher up, at the top of the citadel, there is an impressive, excavated Roman tomb.
And, back to the view of the dolmen and the Lovers’ Rock, what we didn’t notice when we were gazing back into the Neolithic age were excavations closer at hand that had revealed an extensive Roman bathhouse.
All of this time travel can be a bit overwhelming, but the solution is close at hand in the Municipal Museum of Antequera. This truly excellent, 5,000 square-metre museum carries visitors through the history of the city and also presents some modern elements. The museum boasts that it’s where “the Roman past comes to life and the cultural present awaits you.”
Antequera’s rich history is well presented, of course, including
an indoor restoration of a Roman tomb, and its cultural heritage is celebrated with paintings and sculptures dating back through the city’s complex past. One of the best examples is a delicate sculpture of the head of the goddess Venus from the Roman era. Even better, a unique, life-size bronze of a young man, also from the time of the Romans.
Moving ahead several hundred years, I was especially impressed with an ethereal, life-sized statue of St. Francis of Assisi created in 1665 by Pedro de Mena.
But the museum comes as advertised, bringing visitors right up to date with the current artistic accomplishes of this part of Spain. The museum’s art collection includes 692 works by 34 different artists. Not all are on display, of course, but you can actually see most of them if you visit the museum’s excellent website, museoantequera.es/en/. And yes, that gets you the English site.
One current Antequera artist who captured my attention at the museum was Cristobal Toral. The museum has an extensive collection of his paintings, many of which include dramatic images of – wait for it – luggage! A biography accompanying a Toral exhibition at the museum explained he is intrigued by the fact that “humanity is essentially nomad … the continuous transit of human beings. … For this reason, Toral has chosen the suitcase to be an icon of our time.”
And there we were, facing an artistic expression of “our time” only steps away from Neolithic, Roman and Moorish times. What more could any would-be time traveller wish for?
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.
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
A view of the Lovers’ Rock and the neolithic dolmen (the hill in mid-range in the photo).
Recently excavated Roman baths in Antequera with the Lovers’ Rock in the distance.
A Roman tomb on the heights of the Moorish Citadel. ut
Walls of the citadel and a bell tower, built as part of a Catholic chapel constructed in 1582.
An unexpected Moorish aristocrat roaming the citadel in Antequera.
“The greatest public event ...” but no photos?!
VINTAGE VIEWS
By Tim Mosher Tavistock and District Historical Society
One of Tavistock’s most iconic structures is the tall, rubble-style stone entrance to Queen’s Park. Nearly a century old, it was a project of the local Women’s Institute who proposed the structure to the Tavistock council in 1927. It was approved, monies raised, fieldstone donated by local farmers, constructed and inaugurated in 1929 on a grand day. Final cost of construction? $443.37.
You’d expect the ribbon cutting and ceremonies to follow would have been front-page news in the local press with large black-andwhite photos, but many newspapers at the start of the Great Depression were structured very differently than today. Then, like now, the Tavistock Gazette and its predecessor, the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette, are weeklies, but periodicals of the 1920s had a very different design.
On page 1 of the Sept. 12, 1929, Tavistock Gazette that was published one day preceding the gate’s inauguration is: the local mortician advertising horsedrawn or motorized hearses; piglets for sale; houses to rent; a small butter churn for sale; an advertisement referring to women as “dames” and a long list of who visited whom around the town during the past week, aka, tea ‘n’ talk and not a single photo.
On page 4 of the same edition is first, without a title, the workman who was injured while building the archway and then details about the ribbon cutting and festivities to follow in the arena nearby. The writer penned “This is the
greatest public event that has ever taken place in Tavistock.” See the two-paragraph report in the accompanying screen grab of the 1929 writeup.
The next edition of the Gazette has more information but again no photo and a very tiny title that
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!
The Wilmot Lions/Lioness Club wishes to thank everyone who supported the 42nd annual Tree of Light Ceremony, held Friday evening (Dec. 5).
We appreciate the participation of our New Hamburg Concert Band who played great Christmas songs during the evening as they do every year for us. The incredible harmony of the Mixology A Cappella Singers was absolutely wonderful to listen to.
Thanks to Mayor Natasha Salonen and Tim Louis, MP, who joined us. Congratulations to the
says “Beautiful Park Entrance Opened” on page 3. A very different hierarchy of information compared to contemporary newspapers.
The very odd thing about this “... greatest public event ...” is there are no known photos of it! The local professional photographer was John Lemp who was very active in the district, taking pictures of innumerable activities large and small, but there are no photos taken by him of the big day. His 4,000 glass negatives comprise the Lemp Studio Collection at the Tavistock and District Historical Society (TDHS), so he was pretty thorough during his almost 45-year photo career.
Also, I’ve never seen amateur snaps of this event either. Small box and folding cameras were extremely popular at the time (and sold by Mr. Lemp in his pharmacy) but I’ve never seen a photo of the gate’s inauguration or related festivities.
Readers, if you have old family photos that you suspect were taken on the day the gates were inaugurated, please take a picture of it or scan it and send it to me at my email address below in the History Mystery. The historical society is always interested in having copies of photos – or originals donated – that record the full breadth of life in Tavistock and the district. Your image(s) would be unique and highly appreciated.
Sadly, the Tavistock Women’s Institute disbanded in 1993.
Photos are unique windows into the past. They record the stories of our ancestors, community and country. We must be sure to preserve them for future generations as they help to tell our history after we have all gone silent.
The last History Mystery: The article was about J. G. Field’s woolen mill, Tavistock. The question was “What’s the relationship between wax and wicks and the phone that Mr. Field is touching with his right hand?” The first
children whose colouring pages were drawn from the Christmas box, and each of them won a prize: Estelle O., Hailey D., Rosalynn F., Sloane O. and Lila E.
Mostly, thanks to all the businesses that support our Tree of Light campaign, and all the people who joined us at the tree lighting. Happy holidays to all.
Wilmot Lions/Lioness Club, Wilmot Township
reader to answer this correctly was Connie Hitzroth of Tavistock, stating the design resembles a candle. A common way to refer to this device during its heyday in 1920 was as a “candlestick phone.”
This edition’s History Mystery: The question is open to all ages. The gates were dedicated in 1929 when George V was the Monarch, so why aren’t they
weeks. Send your answers to me at tim_mosher@hotmail.com. To read the old Tavistock Gazettes, go to tavistockhistory.ca, which will take you to the TDHS website. Then, in the grey box on the left, click on “Research.” Click on the first item at the top, “Newspaper Archive,” scroll down and you’ll see a list of five different community newspapers. Click on “Tavistock Gazette.” Scroll down and you’ll see a long list of Gazettes spanning 1895 to June 2021. The Wilmot-Tavistock
This photo of the new Queen’s Park gates was likely taken shortly before the ribbon-cutting ceremony because of what appears to be leftover rubble on the bottom right and behind a pillar on the left. The structure behind on the right was the community’s first arena, the Old Show House.
(PHOTO BY JOHN LEMP, T.D.H.S. SCAN #0224)
The gates as they appeared five weeks ago.
(TIM MOSHER PHOTO)
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Who pays for growth in Wilmot? Braemar Women’s Institute engages in some Christmas giving at final meeting of the year
Dear editor,
With the Region of Waterloo now acknowledging a water-capacity shortfall, Wilmot residents should be asking an important question: who pays for the infrastructure required to support large industrial development? Many people assume that developers cover the costs of new water systems. Unfortunately, that is not how municipal infrastructure works.
Developers typically pay for the pipes and services that run through their own property because those benefit the development directly. But the big, expensive parts of the water system — treatment plants, wells, pumping stations, major water mains — are public assets. They are paid for by municipalities, and therefore by residents through property taxes, water rates and long-term debt.
Even when municipalities charge development fees, those fees rarely cover the cost of the major system upgrades that industrial development requires. They don’t cover replacing aging infrastructure, they don’t cover most long-term expansion and they are often reduced or waived to “attract investment.” The
result is simple: industrial users benefit from upgraded infrastructure, but residents pay for it.
This matters in Wilmot because large industrial projects are being promoted as economic opportunities, while the region is simultaneously admitting that our water system cannot support future demand without significant new investment. If industrial development requires more capacity, residents will be the ones funding wells, pumps and treatment upgrades — often decades before the municipality ever sees a return.
Growth is not “free,” and it is not water neutral. Expanding industrial development in a groundwater-dependent system has real costs and real consequences. Before any major approvals move forward, residents deserve full transparency on what upgrades are required, what they will cost and who will pay for them.
Public investment should serve public needs, not subsidize private profit.
Sincerely Anne Loeffler, New Hamburg
LAURA GREEN Braemar Women’s Institute
A potluck lunch kicked off the December/ Christmas meeting for the Braemar Women’s Institute on Dec. 3.
President Anya Donaldson had a headstart in decorating her home inside and out for the Christmas season just for us. A short business meeting was held, followed by a simple craft that each member tackled successfully. More fun came with the Secret Santa Gift exchange
with eight chances for members to retrieve their first choice.
Members donated an assortment of needed items for Ingamo Homes for the Roll Call. Ingamo Homes is a non-profit organization committed to ending gender-based violence by providing second-stage housing, outreach and programming to women and their children, serving Woodstock and Oxford County.
Braemar members would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and all the best in 2026.
WRPS continues to investigate three-vehicle collision in Wellesley Township
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) is continuing to investigate a collision in Wellesley Township.
On Dec. 9 at approximately 5 p.m., emergency services responded to reports of a collision between a tractor trailer and two pickup trucks on Line 86 at Powell Road.
The driver of the transport truck, a 41-yearold Brampton man, and the driver of one of the pickup trucks, a 64-year-old Perth County man,
PERTH COUNTY OPP
were uninjured, but the driver of the second pickup, a 40-year-old Northumberland County man, was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Line 86 was closed for several hour for the investigation and has since been reopened. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash camera footage is asked to contact WRPS at 519-650-8500 ext. 6399. Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-8477 or online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.
CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design)
CAMSAFE (Volunteer Registry of Security Cameras)
Volunteer registry aimed at keeping
at any time.
AUGUST 2 -SEPTEMBER 6, 2 26
AUGUST 29-SEPTEMBER 6, 2026
JANUARY 2 – FEBRUARY 2, 2 2
JANUARY 25 – FEBRUARY 2, 2027
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
Community Care/Optimist Club of New Hamburg Christmas Charity Breakfast 8-11 a.m.
Adults $12.00 Children $6.00 Family of 4 $25.00 - Tickets at the door.
All proceeds to Community Care Concepts New Hamburg Legion 65 Boulee St., New Hamburg
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
The Tavistock Opti-Mrs. are sponsoring a Free Public Skate
3-4 p.m.
Tavistock & District Recreation Centre 1 Adam St., Tavistock
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16
All children up to Grade 8 will receive a ticket for chips and a drink
MONDAY, DECEMBER 22
Wilmot Council meeting 7-11 p.m.
Council chambers 60 Snyder’s Road W., Baden
MORNING & EVENING BIBLE READING
Read the Bible in a Year in Community Morning meeting 6:00am daily Evening meeting 6:00pm 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
STAMP CLUB
Oxford Philatelic Society
Meetings: 2nd Tuesday (2-4pm) and 4th Tuesday (7 to 9pm) 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. Contact: Don Junker
Deadline: Tuesday prior at 3 p.m.
Contact: thewtgazette@gmail.com
CLASSIFIED ADS
FOR SALE
FRESH CUT CHRISTMAS TREES
Beautiful Ontario Balsam trees available at 75 William St., North, Tavistock. Fundraising project of Tavistock Grace United Church, Middle Aged Pews.
Thank you for your support.
FOR SALE
Hundreds of shade trees, fruit trees, apples, pears, peaches, plums, sweet and sour cherries, apricots, nectarines, blueberries, haskapp grapes, raspberries, elderberries etc. Lots of spruce, pine, cedars for windbreak and privacy hedges. Sizes 1-8 ft. in containers ready to go. Flowering shrubs and much more. MonSat 7:00am to 6:00pm
Martin’s Nursery, 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter, ON N0G 2X0 (1 Conc. North of Wroexter on Belmore Line)
WANTED
$ Cash Paid $ for your RECORDS and LPs. Jazz, Blues, Rock, Pop, Folk, Soundtracks, and more. Selectively buying CDs, Cassettes, Turntables, and Stereo Equipment. For more information: DIAMOND DOGS MUSIC 114 Ontario St. Stratford/ 226-972-5750
WANTED
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi, any pop company, Brewery items Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, Wristwatches and pocket watches, Old fruit jars, Beaver Star Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signs Red Indian Supertest etc Any small furniture. If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please contact me - 519-570-6920.
SERVICE DIRECTORY —
