There isn’t much in this world that could convince 700 people to sit outside in the summer sun for a few hours on one of the hottest days of the summer, made hotter by several very active, nearby barbecues.
“We are extremely grateful for all the support of the community and businesses that made this 21st annual Childhood Cancer BBQ event a success,” Bechthold said after the event was over and the money
“Also, for the support of
There will be two fewer crossing guards to help Wellesley Township children walk to school in September after council recently approved the removal of one crossing guard from the Village of Wellesley and another from Linwood.
At the July 8 Wellesley council meeting, council approved the staff recommendation to remove two crossing guard positions, the first on Manser Road at Alfred Street in Linwood and the second at Nafziger Road and Maple Leaf Street in the Village of Wellesley.
“The region has improved the infrastructure with the use of all-way stops for pedestrians along the routes,” said Wellesley director of public works Chris Cook. “The decision is supported by data collected through (traffic) gap studies and staff have been in consultation with (Student Transportation Services of Waterloo Region) and (Waterloo Region District School Board), and they’re both in support of the recommendation as long as there’s a
Mike Farwell, host of The Mike Farwell Show on 570 NewsRadio Kitchener, mans the grill at the annual Bechthold Childhood Cancer BBQ
exchange for a donation to his Farwell4Hire campaign in support of cystic fibrosis research.
(GALEN SIMMONS PHOTO)
Community raises $31K for childhood cancer care
family and friends that volunteered at the barbecue. Without them this event could not happen.
“With a few weeks to go yet in July, it would be really fantastic if we can meet last year’s total of $35,000 because we know every dollar will go somewhere to help a child, a family or to improve research and treatment. Thank you again to a very giving community.”
Thanks to the support of local businesses and organizations like Stemmler’s Meats, Krug’s Meat Market, Ross and Lindsay’s No Frills Cambridge, the Optimist Club of New Hamburg, M&G Portables, Herrle’s Country Farm Market, Costco and Sunbelt Rentals, the event went off without a hitch, almost as if the Bechtholds have been organizing it for more than two decades.
The event even saw a few special guests including Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen, Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services Chief John Riches and Mike Farwell, host of The Mike Farwell Show on 570
NewsRadio Kitchener.
Farwell, who helps promote the Bechthold Childhood Cancer BBQ on his show, stuck around to help man the grills as part of his Farwell4Hire initiative, through which he accepts donations in support of cystic fibrosis research in exchange for doing odd jobs.
“When Warren Bechthold asks, you just say, ‘Yes, sir,’ and, ‘When do you want me there?’ ” Farwell said. “That’s kind of the way it works. He’s got such a great way of bringing people together and he’s been doing this for so long, he’s got such passion for it, it’s really difficult to pass up an opportunity to be a part of it somehow.
“ … Farwell4Hire says, ‘You make a donation to cystic fibrosis, I show up,’ and Warren made a very generous donation to my campaign. I would have come here anyway – don’t tell him that – but heck, I wasn’t going to resist the opportunity for the extra money for my charity and to support Warren’s great efforts here.”
But the big winners of the day were,
of course, the organizations the barbecue supports – Scotland’s Yard (Waterloo Regional Health Network), the Children’s Health Foundation (London) and the Walk to Conquer Cancer (Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto).
“I’m very proud and lucky to be Scotland’s dad; she’s doing very well now and living a very healthy life,” said Brian Santos, who spoke at the barbecue on behalf of the Waterloo Regional Health Network and Scotland’s Yard. “She is five, but for basically half her life, she was fighting cancer. She was on treatment for two years and we spent a year of back and forth, back and forth to Hamilton. As it stands in our region, if you have a child that’s fighting cancer or another major illness, they have to travel outside of our community to get the lifesaving treatment and care they need.
“What that means is travelling to Hamilton, London or Toronto. So, the goal of Scotland’s Yard is simple; just to bring care closer to home so that any child
that needs help can get the help they need at home and don’t have to travel. … It would be so much easier to get care at St. Mary’s (General Hospital) or Grand River (Hospital), or hopefully soon at the new hospital that will be built. … How we’re going to get there is through community and through community fundraisers like this. … I’m past the point of being proud; I’m inspired by (the Bechthold family) and the work you’ve done. … You fill a lot of stomachs with great food and you fill a lot of hearts in terms of raising money for our community.”
One hundred per cent of the proceeds raised through this event and online at www.bechtholdhome.com/childhood-cancer-bbq until the end of July go directly to support the above organizations. In its first 20 years, the Bechthold Childhood Cancer BBQ raised more than $318,000 in support of cancer care and research.
The next Bechthold Childhood Cancer BBQ will be held on July 9, 2026.
Hungry supporters line up to order hotdogs, sausages, hamburgers and cheeseburgers at the Bechthold Childhood Cancer BBQ July 10.
Roughly 700 community members showed up in support of the Bechtholds’ annual fundraiser barbecue.
Warren Bechthold hands a burger to Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen, who is joined for the photo by Region of Waterloo Paramedic Services Chief John Riches.
Warren Bechthold speaks during his and his family’s 21st annual childhood cancer barbecue fundraiser.
(GALEN SIMMONS PHOTOS)
All-way stops replace crossing guards at two Wellesley locations
comprehensive transition plan.”
To enhance pedestrian and driver safety, the Region of Waterloo recently installed all-way stops enroute to the two crossing-guard positions to be eliminated in Linwood and the Village of Wellesley. Allway stops have recently been installed at Manser Road and Ament Line in Linwood and Queen’s Bush Road and Nafziger Road in Wellesley.
The all-way stops provide a safe crossing all day, every day, not just while a crossing guard is on duty, and Cook said township staff feel encouraging education of safe crossing at the all-way stops at both locations will keep pedestrians safer during and outside of school hours.
While Cook said both the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and Student Transportation Services of Waterloo Region (STSWR) have agreed with the rationale behind removing these crossing-guard locations, they want to ensure adequate notice and education about the change be passed on to the parents of school-aged children in the area well in advance of the start of school in September.
Township staff have already begun working with Wellesley Public School and Linwood District Public School to help the township inform all parents of the change and the proposed alternatives. STSWR will also update its walking-path maps on its website to reflect the approved changes.
“I didn’t get talking to as many people as maybe I would have liked to on this one, but one of the concerns I heard was that if the (crosswalk) lines remain and the signs remain, kids are going to cross (at the previous crossing) anyway because that’s the most direct route, up towards the old (Wellesley) arena and through,” Coun. Derek Brick said regarding the new school walking route in the Village of Wellesley. “ … Yes, we can direct them to the four-way
stop at the intersection, but that’s the preferred route and you’re going get people going (the old) way.”
“I think it’s the preferred route because it’s the route that they take currently,” Cook responded. “I don’t believe that it’s any longer to go to the four-way stop. I think it’s the exact same amount of steps, I think you’d find if you paced it off. For us, it’s more about education and that’s where that transition plan comes in, communicating it through the schools and (having township staff) onsite during that first week of school.”
While Coun. Lori Sebben asked whether parents in the areas affected by this change had been consulted prior to staff bringing this report to council, Cook said only the school board and STSWR had been asked for input.
Brick later asked whether the decision could be deferred until parents were given a chance to provide their feedback.
“The reason that I didn’t seek public input in the first place was I have a pretty good idea of the input that we’re going to receive,” Cook said. “The input that I think we’re going to receive is probably going to be that we keep the crossing guards, but I don’t think that’s in the best interest of the township and the rest of the taxpayers, and I don’t believe we’re putting the students or other pedestrians in any kind of danger by removing them. The crosswalk will still be there; they just don’t have a crossing guard for that hour before and after school to physically say when to go across the road.
“Cars are still required to stop, there’s a safe route there and if we can get pedestrians in the habit of using the all-way stop, it’s going to provide a safer crossing for much-longer period of time.”
Brick ultimately voted against eliminating the crossing-guard positions while the rest of council voted in favour.
Wilmot Township to assume responsibility for Petersburg water system
On Jan. 15, 2024, the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks directed the Region of Waterloo and the Township of Wilmot to assume full responsibility for the Petersburg water system.
The transfer took effect May 13, 2024, following the discontinuation of operations by the system’s private owner.
The system, previously owned and operated by a local resident, was handed over due to the high costs of upkeep. The township is now responsible for upgrading the infrastructure, which may include replacing water mains, meters and hookups – or even a complete rebuild.
The current system supplies water to one property on Deerfield Extension, nine on Deerfield Avenue, 31 on Alice Crescent, four on Redford Drive, eight on Notre Dame Drive and nine on Snyder’s Road East. It also services a community park and Emmanuel Lutheran Church.
Ward 2 Coun. Kris Wilkinson explained
that private water systems can operate as long as they meet the province’s minimum standards. When a private owner gives up their licence, the ministry steps in.
“They issued orders to the township to take it over,” said Wilkinson. “As the township, part of our mandate is to provide safe drinking water distribution to our neighbourhoods. So, when we take over, there’s a different level of standard we’re held to.”
Given ministry expectations, he said, the township had no choice but to proceed with upgrades.
Under the current division of responsibility in Wilmot Township, the region treats municipal drinking water, while the township handles its distribution.
In most municipalities, water bills include payments to a reserve fund to cover emergencies or infrastructure upgrades. But in this part of Petersburg, no such reserve existed.
“For example, part of my water bill goes into a reserve, so if a water main breaks,
the city is going to come by to fix it,” Wilkinson said.
He added that new homes typically pay development charges to fund the extension of water systems. But no such fees were ever collected from these Petersburg residents.
“In this case, there was never a development charge and therefore, the township doesn’t own the infrastructure, nor have they ever received funding from residents to pay for needed infrastructure,” he said.
Although residents now face substantial upgrade costs, Wilkinson is trying to help the community see the long-term benefits.
“You’re going to get better water quality, it’s going to be held to a different standard. You’re going to have better pressure. The system will be brand new,” he said.
“It’s an unfortunate cost to pass on to people – I completely understand that –but ultimately, we will make every accommodation to ensure that citizens are taken care of. We’re trying as hard as we can to get grants or funding in any way, shape or
form that will assist the residents with the cost.”
The township will cover the upfront cost and then amortize the amount for homeowners over time. Final costs have not been confirmed, but early estimates range from $15,000 to $50,000 per household, Wilkinson told the Gazette.
The township is also considering extending water services to nearby homes currently not connected to the system. This would broaden access and potentially distribute the cost more evenly.
“I’m not sure how much of an appetite there is for others in the area to upgrade,” said Wilkinson. “Most people are excited by the prospect of this being available, though.”
A grant program that could offset a significant portion of the costs is currently being explored.
The project is still in the design phase, and the township plans to host a town hall meeting in early October to gather public feedback.
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Summer camp brings history to life at Fryfogel Tavern
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
Just east of Shakespeare, the historic Fryfogel Tavern came to life as it hosted a week-long summer day camp from July 7-11.
Run by summer students Hilary Doupe and Nathan Patterson, the camp welcomed 15 enthusiastic participants for a hands-on experience inspired by pioneer life.
The Fryfogel Tavern, with its deep roots in Perth County history, was originally owned by Sebastian Fryfogel, believed to be the first settler in the area. The tavern remained in the Fryfogel family for generations and continues to be a proud symbol of the region’s heritage.
Throughout the week, campers took part in traditional pioneer-style activities. They learned to make bread, candles and soap using age-old methods, much like those used when Sebastian Fryfogel first settled the land. The children also enjoyed exploring nature, playing old-fashioned games and catching bugs with creatively decorated bug catchers.
Creative projects filled each day,
including crafting clay snails from natural materials, making tin punch ornaments, braiding fabric to create coasters and decorating flowerpots with pressed flowers.
One of the highlights was learning the art of cyanotype, a special kind of printmaking that uses sunlight to develop botanical prints. Campers also tried their hand at writing letters with feather pens on paper stained with tea and coffee, mimicking the writing style of early settlers.
The camp was not only fun but educational, giving children a meaningful glimpse into the past and a greater appreciation for local history.
Doupe and Patterson will be at the Fryfogel Tavern throughout July and August, offering guided tours daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The summer team also has several special events planned, including a cyanotype print workshop, movie nights and a big end-of-season open house.
For more information, follow Fryfogel Tavern & Arboretum on Facebook (@FryfogelTavern&Arboretum), on Instagram (@fryfogeltavern), or by email at fryfogeltavern@gmail.com.
Participants of Fryfogel Tavern’s Summer Day Camp 2025 gather in front of the Fryfogel Tavern after a fun-filled week of adventure and creativity. The program ran from July 7-11.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Campers explore the garden, catching bugs with the colourful bug catchers they decorated themselves.
In the restored dining room of the historic Fryfogel Tavern, campers braid colourful, printed fabric to create coasters.
Chickens or no chickens? What are the rules in EZT?
Backyard chickens are not allowed in the Township of East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT), but there are at last a few people who would like to see that change.
One of them is Cody Kuepfer, who moved from Kitchener seven years ago where coops are allowed when the rules are followed. He was hoping to have one in Tavistock and reached out to Melanie Shiell, the township’s bylaw compliance officer, to explore the idea.
“Backyard chickens are not permitted in residential zones in (EZT). For chickens to be permitted on your property, your property must be zoned agricultural,” Shiell told Kuepfer in an email.
Under EZT’s animal bylaw, a domestic bird means all varieties and species of domestic and tame birds except those typically associated with an agricultural operation. They are exempt if confined and for hobby purposes only and not sale purposes. Kuepfer said for him, that’s where the confusion was.
“I could almost whip a baseball and hit a horse farm. I am as close to being agricultural without being agricultural. From what I gathered when I read the bylaw is that it is allowed but it didn’t specifically say how many.”
Kuepfer is hoping council will at least start a discussion to find out if there is an appetite to look at a program.
see if it’s a thing more people are interested in. There’s always going to be people on the other side, I get it. … If you have lazy people who aren’t going to take care of them, it’s going to stink. I just think having fresh eggs would be amazing all the time and a fantastic learning experience for my four-year-old son.”
for different uses, such as having fresh eggs every day.
“I am one of those people who don’t like the township telling me what I can and can’t do on my property when I pay very good property taxes to be there. I think I should be able to have four chickens for eggs if I want to.”
He did not say whether he was in favour of a bylaw amendment that would allow for backyard chickens in the township. The Gazette is aware of one Tavistock family that built a backyard coop about three years ago but were quickly forced to rehome the birds following at least one complaint from a neighbour.
Several area municipalities allow chicken coops on residential properties including Kitchener, Woodstock and Wilmot Township. Erin Merritt is Wilmot’s supervisor of municipal law enforcement and she said the first step in finding out if a resident is able to have chickens is a look at the zoning bylaw.
“We have to see if their property is large enough to have them in a residential area. Once they pass that hurdle, they fill out an online application form and submit a drawing of where their coop is going to be. As long as that meets the bylaw requirements, I will go out to ensure what they said they are building is correct.”
There is a cost of $100 once a license is approved by the township and there are currently eight coops at homes across the township. The maximum number of hens allowed is four. Merritt explained there have been a few complaints, but nothing that has raised any red flags.
Kuepfer added responsible residents should be able to utilize their properties
The Gazette reached out to each member of EZT council to find out if they were open to the idea of looking at a hen program and to see if they believe the current animal bylaw needs its wording beefed up. Only Mayor Phil Schaefer responded.
“As far as the wording of our bylaw goes, it becomes a zoning issue as well. Food production and/or hobby farming animals are not a permitted use in a residential zone. I think our intentions are clear. If council wishes to make changes to the policy wording or the policy itself, that is certainly their prerogative at any time.”
“Mainly fears of wildlife coming in, but as long as the chickens are being cared for and brought in at night, that tends to help a lot. But the people who are licensed, we haven’t heard from their neighbours directly.”
The current backyard chicken coops in Wilmot are located where population density is low and properties are large. Merritt said when the township next reviews the bylaw, it could look at relaxing some of the rules.
“We have had a lot of inquiries from people in town who would like chickens where their backyards are much smaller. We will be looking at it again, but I don’t have a timeline for it. Our bylaw for hens will be ever evolving.”
Chickens like these aren’t allowed in most East Zorra-Tavistock backyards—but resident Cody Kuepfer wants that to change.
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
Wellesley council approves memorial bench and tree policy
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Honouring a loved one who has passed away with a memorial bench or tree in Wellesley Township will now cost $2,500 or $800 respectively, and the placement or those memorials is restricted to five locations throughout the township.
Those changes are part of an official memorial bench and tree policy approved by Wellesley council at its regular meeting July 8. Previously, requests from residents wishing to donate a bench or tree in memory of a loved one have been dealt with on a case-by-case basis, leading to inconsistent procedures and expectations, unclear responsibilities for long-term maintenance, and space limitations in some parks. As the demand for memorial installations increases, township staff proposed the policy to ensure transparency, fairness and alignment with park and green-space planning and maintenance practices.
“We are now recommending going to a model where the donors provide a set fee to the municipality and staff would then order the bench or trees from an approved list provided to the donor,” said Wellesley director of recreation Danny Roth.
“The bench that staff are recommending is a bench that we have purchased for indoor and outdoor use at the Wellesley Township recreation complex. This bench
fall planting seasons. Donors will have the option of including a ground-level plaque. The $800 donation will cover the cost of the tree, its planting and a one-time replacement if the tree dies within three years.
Currently, there are five sites included in the policy open for both memorial benches and trees. They include the Hawkesville Community Centre grounds, the Linwood Community Centre grounds, the green space in St. Clements at the corner of Anita Drive and Lobsinger Line, the St. Clements Community Centre grounds and the Wellesley Township Recreation Complex grounds.
Additional locations may be brought to council for approval in the future. All sites will be reviewed annually to determine the future capacity for adding benches and trees.
“This won’t, in any way, affect the benches that are already there,” Mayor Joe Nowak asked?
is made from recycled-plastic boards and metal frames, and is good for year-round outdoor use. The benches will be placed on concrete pads and bolted down, and the model would be a cost-recovery model.”
The $2,500 cost for a bench includes a
memorial plaque, as well as the materials and labour necessary to install it.
As for trees, donors will select species and planting sites from an approved list, and the planting will be done by township staff or contractors in the spring or
“That’s correct. The recommendation is that the benches that are currently in place have 10 years to adhere to this policy. After 10 years, the benches will be looked at and, at that time, they would have to adhere to the policy,” Roth said. “If benches fail within this first 10 years, the recommendation for replacing them would be they have to adhere to this policy.”
Roadwork underway on Highway 59 south of Tavistock
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Oxford Road 59 between Oxford Road 8 and Oxford Road 33 is officially closed to through traffic for an Oxford County construction project.
“This work involves culvert replacements for selected stormwater infrastructure within the road right-of-way (roadway and shoulders). It is being carried out in advance of road resurfacing scheduled for 2026,” said Frank Gross, senior manager of transportation and waste management at the county.
A culvert is a structure that allows water to flow under a road, railroad, trail, or similar obstruction. It’s essentially a tunnel or pipe that channels water, like a small stream, ditch, or drainage, beneath a built structure.
Gross added the same type of work is being carried out in both phases, but it is taking place under a different traffic-control plan.
“During Phase 1, Oxford Road 59 between Oxford Road 8 and Oxford Road 33 will be closed to through traffic. Traffic will be limited to local residents, businesses and emergency services. During Phase 2, Oxford Road 59 between Oxford Road 33 and Oxford Road 17 will be restricted to one lane of traffic controlled by traffic-control persons during working hours.
During non-working hours, traffic will be reinstated to two lanes.”
This is peak season for several businesses in the area, including Craigowan Golf and Country Club and Willow Lake Campground and RV Park. Gross said the contractor will do everything they can to allow for easy access to all properties in the affected area.
“Construction season is in full swing and the work is proceeding as required under the contract. As with any project, some short-term interruptions and delays can be expected during the work. The contractor is required to maintain access as best as possible to all properties for local traffic and businesses. There is a detour in place for through traffic in the closed section in Phase 1, and lane restrictions are in place in Phase 2 for through traffic.”
Gross said drivers are reminded to consider alternate routes, allow for additional time when travelling, obey all construction signs and drive cautiously within construction zones.
The project is expected to be completed by August.
“Remember, construction schedules are weather-dependent and subject to change based on contractor availability and other operational demands,” he added.
The $2.3-million contract was awarded to Cassidy Construction in London.
The Hawkesville Community Centre grounds, shown here with an existing memorial bench in the bottom right, are among the locations approved for future memorial benches and trees under Wellesley’s new policy.
(TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY WEBSITE PHOTO)
NEAT Club rolls into New Hamburg for annual breakfast at Scran and Dram
Rows of brightly coloured antique tractors lined the parking lot at Scran and Dram Scottish Public House in New Hamburg last Thursday morning as members of the North Easthope Antique Tractor (NEAT) Club gathered for their annual breakfast run.
Each summer, dozens of NEAT members
make the scenic trek into town to enjoy a hearty breakfast and share their love of vintage farm machinery. The staff at Scran and Dram, always welcoming, look forward to the tradition – often stepping outside after serving the morning meal to climb aboard the tractors and experience firsthand the feel of the machines that once powered local farms.
The event offers a rare opportunity for the public, especially children, to get up
close to these well-maintained relics of agricultural history.
One young fan this year was two-yearold Declan Agden, who couldn’t contain his excitement while sitting on a Massey Ferguson 65. With a wide grin and his mom, Janessa, by his side, Declan was thrilled to have a seat on a real farm tractor – an experience he won’t soon forget.
“It’s moments like these that make the event so special,” said one club member.
“Many kids today don’t have a chance to see, let alone sit on, these kinds of tractors.”
Among the many proud tractor owners in attendance was Wayne Gerber, who brought along his D-17 Allis Chalmers – a powerful and popular machine in its day, once a staple on many area farms. Standing on the drawbar in a white shirt, Wayne was happy to answer questions and share stories of farming days gone by.
Scran and Dram staff – Sara, Lanaya, Sean, Brenda, Keanna, Steven and Jordan – pose in front of a D-17 Allis Chalmers owned by Wayne Gerber (standing on the drawbar). Owners David and Sabrina Hutchinson were absent from this photo.
Two-year-old Declan Agden beams with excitement as he sits on a Massey Ferguson 65 with his mom, Janessa. The NEAT breakfast run is often the only chance local children get to explore vintage tractors up close.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
East Zorra Mennonite Church hosts Vacation Bible School
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
The East Zorra Mennonite Church hosted Vacation Bible School (VBS) the week of July 7-11.
Nearly 180 children from preschool through Grade 8 participated. The camp was organized by VBS directors Naomi Witzel and Ashley Witzel.
“It’s such a special outreach to our community to share the news of Jesus and his great big love for each of us,” said Ashley Witzel.
Planning began in January, with preparations beginning in the months leading up to the camp. Various committees handled key responsibilities like decorating, snacks and skits.
Pastor Mike Williamson and Pastor Ray Martin, along with approximately 50 dedicated volunteers, generously gave their time and energy to help make VBS a success. Most volunteers were from East Zorra Mennonite Church, with additional help from Tavistock Mennonite Church. The team included both adults and high school students.
“The youth were such positive role
models for the younger children,” said Naomi Witzel.
This year’s VBS theme, True North: Trusting Jesus in a Wild World, was selected by the directors. Each morning, children rotated through four engaging stations: Bible Adventures, Scripture Learning, Games, and the Imagination Station, which featured daily science experiments. Favourite activities included snack time, games, skits and science experiments, all designed to foster learning and fun.
Vacation Bible School concluded with a heartwarming and memorable moment Friday morning. As the music began and the older kids began leading worship songs, almost three-quarters of the children eagerly gathered at the front of the church to join them.
The East Zorra Mennonite Church’s Vacation Bible School once again proved to be a wonderful opportunity to bring children together to learn about faith, friendship and the love of Jesus.
“It’s such a special outreach of God’s love, and we’re truly grateful for the support from our community,” said Ashley Witzel.
Vacation Bible School participants and volunteers join in assembly time at East Zorra Mennonite Church.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Kids at Imagination Station explore science to help them discover how they can trust Jesus.
Student interim pastor Alexis Leis and nineyear-old Garner Zehr present an object lesson together.
Lillian Ropp, age four, enjoys making a craft with her preschool group.
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Tavistock Men’s Club donates scooter to local senior
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
There’s never a dull moment in the Tavistock area when it comes to community generosity, and the Tavistock Men’s Club continues to lead the way with another heartwarming act of kindness.
On Monday morning, the club presented a brand-new, red, four-wheeled electric scooter to Theresia Straus of Lisbon. The great-grandmother, surrounded by four generations of family, beamed with joy as the scooter was rolled out for her to take home.
Straus’ name was drawn from a collection of submissions after the men’s club posted a callout on Facebook. The scooter,
a Rascal model, had been sitting in storage at the back of the club’s hall for years collecting dust. Rather than let it go unused, club members decided it was time to find someone who could benefit from it.
Members Kevin Pelling and Ron Kalbfleisch led the initiative, organizing the draw and coordinating the donation. When Straus’ name was drawn, her family was notified and joined her at the Men’s Club Hall for the presentation.
Straus expressed her deep appreciation for the gift, saying the scooter will greatly improve her mobility and independence.
“It will give me the freedom to move about without the struggle I’ve had walking with my cane,” she said.
Tavistock Men’s Club scooter draw winner Theresia Straus is all smiles on her new red Rascal scooter. Pictured from left are Ron Kalbfleisch (Tavistock Men’s Club), granddaughter Thea Decaire holding great-grandson Wesley, daughter Charlene Kurzatz, Julie Pelling, and club member Kevin Pelling.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Camp Day a hit at Tavistock’s Tim Hortons
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
It was an especially busy Wednesday at Tim Hortons in Tavistock as the community turned out in full force to support Camp Day, the annual fundraising initiative that sends kids from low-income families to summer camp through the Tim Hortons Foundation Camps.
Throughout the day, 100 per cent of proceeds from brewed coffee and iced coffee sales went directly toward the cause. In-store, staff were also busy selling three-dollar camp bracelets and two-dollar name badges, which were proudly displayed on the front window. Customers
could also take part in fun activities such as guessing the number of candies in a jar or drawing a mystery prize ticket — all for one-dollar donations.
“We were overwhelmed by the generosity of our customers,” said store manager Steven Parker. “Whether they came in or went through the drive-through, people were giving from the heart.”
Customers also made generous free-will donations, further boosting the day’s totals and helping ensure more children will get the opportunity to attend camp this summer.
Management and staff offered a heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making this year’s Camp Day a success.
Pictured right, celebrating Camp Day at Tavistock’s Tim Hortons are staff gathered by the decorative campfire at the store entrance. From left are Liz Mercer, Cathy Mohr, Robbie Carter and Devin Jasztrab.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
‘Haven’t
seen you in a dog’s age!’: Brocksden School Reunion brings back generations of memories
GARY
WEST
Gazette Correspondent
It was a trip down memory lane on Saturday for dozens of former students and teachers who gathered at the well-preserved Brocksden School Museum, located northwest of Shakespeare on Perth Line 37 (Vivian Line) in North Easthope Township.
The phrase, “I haven’t seen you in a dog’s age,” was heard often as old classmates reunited and former teachers were welcomed back with hugs and laughter. The event marked a special reunion for anyone who once attended or taught at Brocksden Public School, which operated from 1853-1966, educating students from grades one to eight – all in one room.
A dedicated committee of 10 former students and teachers began organizing the reunion more than a year ago, and the turnout exceeded expectations. Visitors travelled from across Ontario and even as far as Alberta to reconnect and reminisce. The perfect summer weather added to the day’s warm atmosphere.
After the school closed in 1966 – replaced by the then-new North Easthope Public School – local families came together to preserve the original building and its history. Thanks to their efforts,
Brocksden School remains a living time capsule. Original wooden desks are still in place, chalkboards line the walls and the cursive alphabet still runs across the top of the blackboard just as it once did.
Today, the school is maintained by a board of directors led by Scott and Jessie Campbell and family, who continue to honour its legacy by keeping it open to the public for much of the year.
WEST PHOTOS)
Several former teachers returned to join in the celebration, including Mrs. Betty Pullen (1964-1965), Glen Querengesser (1960-1964) and Joan McGonigle-Scott (1958-1959).
Over the years, Brocksden graduates went on to become doctors, lawyers, teachers, ministers, farmers, ranchers and politicians. But on Saturday, they were once again classmates, sharing stories and memories from their one-room schoolhouse days.
and Betty Pullen. Rows of former students include, in the front row from left: Denise (Pletsch) Smith, Sid Cook, Pat (Faulhafer) Eidt, Sheila (Schmidt) Dale, Marj (Angel) Kollman, Joan (Van Gestel) Wilker, Judy (Hyde) Nafziger, Mary (Makins) Carnie, Lynn Hyde, Jean (Schmidt) Koch and David Koch. In the second row from left: Wayne Faulhafer, Donnalene (Pletsch) Tuer-Hodes, Nancy (Neeb) Kains, Cheryl (Neeb) Fenton, Brenda Neeb, Joyce (Crerar) Barber, Ruth (Cook) Rastogi, Mary (Campbell) Wolfe, Mary (Hyde) Atchison and Roger Cook. In the third row from left: Linda (Neeb) Schwass, Wilma (Van Gestel) Koch, Liz (Van Gestel) Boersen, Leonard Neeb, Diane (Binkle) Swartzentruber, Pat (Fryfogel) Dann, Ann (Campbell) Nuttall, Archie Crerar and Jim Campbell. In the fourth row from left: Matilda (Van Nes) Nyenhuis, Bob Campbell, John Van Gestel, Pearl (Thomson) Fawcett, Roger Schmidt, Terry Schmidt and Bob Faulhafer.
A welcome banner greeted former students and teachers at Saturday’s Brocksden School reunion, the result of months of planning by the organizing committee.
Former students and three returning teachers gather on the school steps for a commemorative photo. Teachers seated at the front: Joan McGonigle-Scott, Glen Querengesser
(GARY
Hot air balloons dazzle in the skies over Perth County
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
The skies above Perth County have come alive this summer with a colourful burst of hot air balloons drifting peacefully over the countryside.
Multiple sightings have been reported in the Shakespeare, New Hamburg and Tavistock areas, with balloons carrying enthusiastic passengers and gently landing in open fields and farms. Last week, one balloon touched down on Perth Road 105 in South Easthope Township next to Clare Schlegel’s pig farm. On Monday, a bright orange balloon made a picture-perfect landing on the sand horse riding arena of John and Heather Dyker, located just east of Shakespeare near Perth Road 106.
According to the navigational crew, this summer’s stable weather has created ideal flying conditions.
“It’s been one of the best years in a long time,” one crew member said. “Few storms and consistent light winds have made for smooth flights and safe landings.”
Passengers – many of them experiencing their first ride – called the journey “a thrill of a lifetime.” The serenity of floating above the green fields and farms of southwestern Ontario left many with lasting memories and wide smiles.
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The balloon’s passengers pose for a photo on Perth Road 105. Most were visiting from the St. Thomas and Leamington areas and raved about the peaceful ride over Perth County’s lush summer landscape.
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
After a gentle landing on Perth Road 105 near Tavistock, passengers young and old exited the tipped-over basket safely, laughing and smiling from the experience.
Sponsored by London’s 102.3 Jack FM, this vivid orange hot air balloon has become a familiar sight over towns and farmland across southwestern Ontario.
Be part of the Big Picture at Harrington Homecoming Centennial
This photo is a bit of the big picture from the first reunion, held in 1925, drawing people from far and wide who had some sort of connection to Harrington. The second
will be the Harrington Homecoming Centennial on Saturday, Aug. 9. Mill tours will be available at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. We will close up the mill at 2 p.m. when a pair of pipers from the
Pipe Band will lead everybody to outside the historic stone schoolhouse (built in 1869) at the corner of Road 96 and 31st Line for the photo. Come be part of the big picture!
HARRINGTON AND AREA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Submitted to the Gazette
Harrington’s big picture, a five-and-a-half-foot-long photo portraying almost 500 people, hangs on the wall of Harrington Hall.
The panoramic photo was taken here in our village on Pitt’s Hill on Labour Day, 1925, in celebration of the “Old Boys and Girls Reunion,” an event that attracted over 1,000 celebrants at a time when Harrington’s population was around 400.
The Great War and the Spanish Flu had just ended. Great sacrifices had been made and hardships endured. Our ancestors were likely celebrating that they were still here, proud to be from here and full of optimism for a better future.
We face different challenges today, including the removal of Pitt’s Hill by a gravel company, but we remain proud of our history and will be celebrating the centennial of that exuberant weekend by welcoming all who hold some affection and/or attachment for this historic, picturesque village.
We’re going to recreate that big picture with a 2025
version and we invite you to be part of it!
Picture time will be 2:30 p.m. Aug. 9 during the Harrington Centennial Homecoming, but there will be a wealth of activities until then at various sites around the village from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
• Visit what is now the historic Harrington Grist Mill that was just a part of daily commerce back then;
• Tour the Harrington Community Centre in what then was the school (S.S. #4, West Zorra) – the building still retains many of the original architectural features;
• Examine a variety of displays in Harrington Hall, previously Broadview United Church which, in 1925, was transitioning from Harrington Methodist Church (historical memorabilia will be for sale);
• Bring your heritage to Harrington Hall: Bring items and/or documents you have related to the history of Harrington and area. Professional staff from the Beachville District Museum will be available to provide practical tips on preserving family treasures at home. From photographs to textiles, learn simple, effective ways to care for your keepsakes
and ensure they last for generations to come.
• Study the school-related displays in the 1869 stone schoolhouse;
• Participate in the Little Hobby Hill Farm petting zoo provided by Oxford County Library;
• Check out the library itself (now a branch of Oxford County Library, but back then the Harrington Library was in the librarian’s home);
• Enjoy good food of The Sunset Shack, the yummy food truck from the Sunset Diner in St. Marys;
• Catch “Ox on the Run,” Oxford County Library’s mobile library project;
• Accept the challenge of the scavenger hunt around the pond and conservation area, organized by the Coyote Nature School;
• Walk around and explore the history of Harrington by reading the signs in front of selected properties explaining what activities used to occur therein. Activities will end at 2 p.m. as a pair of pipers from the Ingersoll Pipe Band call everybody to assemble to be included in the big picture. Photographer Doris Weir, on behalf of the Zorra Heritage Committee, will take a panoramic photograph of all present. A copy of the photo will be emailed to everyone who provides an address.
2:30 p.m. – Everybody is welcome! This photo op is open to anybody who feels some connection to Harrington and area, whether from being born here, having lived here, partied here, fished in the pond or even just passed through and thought what a beautiful spot. This will be our challenge to the future, to protect and celebrate the heritage and the community values that make Harrington special.
Harrington Centennial Homecoming is being organized by the Harrington and Area Community Association (HACA) in collaboration with:
• Beachville District Museum
• Oxford County Archives
• Coyote Nature School
• Harrington Community Centre
• Ingersoll Pipe Band
• Knox Presbyterian Harrington
• Oxford County Library
• Oxford Historical Society
• Zorra Heritage Committee of the Beachville District Historical Society
reunion
Ingersoll
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HARRINGTON AND AREA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION)
Perth-Huron Jersey ‘Incentive Booster Sale’ shatters records while supporting Ontario farm family
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
This year’s Perth-Huron Video Jersey Sale proved to be more than just a successful cattle auction — it became a moving show of support for a fellow Jersey farming family facing hardship.
Dubbed the Incentive Booster Sale, the event featured high-quality Jersey cattle and generous donors who raised significant funds for Kyle and Sophie Rivington of Carp, Ont. Kyle Rivington was recently involved in a serious car accident just days before the sale, leaving the young family — including their two children — in need of support.
The Rivington family received $13,950 from breeders and supporters, who rallied behind them with donations of auction proceeds, cash contributions and sale reruns.
Leading the charge was Glenholme Jersey Farm of Tavistock, operated by the Mellow and Ruta families. They donated the full proceeds from Lot #1, “Glenholme Askin For Nothing,” to the Rivington family. The heifer sold was donated back and sold again, ultimately raising $8,000 for the family. The final buyer was Royal Dawn Farms, operated by the Dietz family north of Mitchell.
The second-highest seller was “Pleasant Nook VIP Jelly Bean,” consigned by the Eby family of Ayr and purchased by Skipwell Farms Inc. in Elgin County for $4,100.
The third-highest seller was “Mari-Lane Tekashi Ellie” from MariLane Jerseys, which sold for $3,800 to Boghaven Farms.
Overall, the 2025 Perth-Huron sale brought in $64,200 from the sale of 21 animals, averaging $3,379 per head — a new record for the event.
Sale chair Paul Franken of Paullor Jerseys in Clinton thanked all the buyers, sellers and supporters who made the sale a resounding success. He also recognized Beverly Spriel of Jersey Ontario for her vital role in organizing the annual summer sale, which continues to be a highlight for breeders across the province.
Top seller “Glenholme Askin For Nothing” from Glenholme Jerseys (Ruta and Mellow families, Tavistock) raised $8,000 for the Kyle and Sophie Rivington Family Fund. Final buyer: Royal Dawn Farms, Mitchell.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Second-highest seller “Pleasant Nook VIP Jelly Bean” from Pleasant Nook Jerseys of Ayr was purchased by Skipwell Farms for $4,100.
Baden Central Church: A growing church plant rooted in faith and community
BADEN CENTRAL CHURCH
Submitted to the Gazette
Baden Central Church, a new church plant by Fellowship Bible Church (FBC) New Hamburg, is making a meaningful impact in the Baden community.
Founded by local residents Nathan and Elaine Kapteyn, this vibrant congregation is rapidly growing, offering a fresh expression of faith in a beautiful historic building in the heart of Baden.
Baden Central Church is a part of FBC New Hamburg’s broader vision to reach people with the gospel and build strong, Christ-centered communities. The church is located in a historic building generously made available by local antique dealers, Justin and Ethan Miller of Miller & Miller Auctions, who are committed to preserving the local heritage. This partnership highlights the unity between Baden Central Church and the community’s deep-rooted history.
Nathan and Elaine’s deep connection to the area is evident as they pour their hearts into this new ministry.
Nathan, who holds a bachelor of theology from Heritage College and Seminary and is pursuing a Masters of Divinity, studied at Liberty Grace Church in downtown Toronto before returning to Baden to plant a church that would glorify God and serve the local community.
Service times and community growth:
Baden Central Church meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. for worship, prayer and teaching, providing a place of refuge and spiritual growth for families in the area. In a short time, the church has seen wonderful growth with families from across Baden and the surrounding region joining in worship and fellowship.
“We believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and is the foundation for everything we do. Our goal is to reach out to those in our community, preach the gospel and see lives transformed through the power of Jesus Christ,” Nathan said. “We’re grateful for the way God has been moving in our church, and we’re excited to see how
he will continue to work in Baden.”
About Baden Central Church:
As an extension of Fellowship Bible Church New Hamburg, which is known for its community events such as the annual Eats and Beats, Winter Carnival and basketball and ice rink activities, Baden Central Church shares in the mission of engaging people with Christ in meaningful ways. In addition, The Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches, as well as other nearby churches such as Grandview Baptist Church in Kitchener and Forward Baptist Church in Cambridge, have supported the growth and development of Baden Central Church, providing resources and encouragement as part of the greater body of Christ.
For more information about Baden Central Church including service times and upcoming events, visit fbcnewhamburg.com/baden-church.
Sorry For Your Loss
May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face; the rains fall soft upon your fields and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
KROPF: Oliver Joseph
By Jake Grant
1. What animal is known to spend 90% of its day sleeping?
2. What is the capital of Iceland?
3. Which sport awards the Davis Cup?
4. What is the only continent with land in all four hemispheres?
5. Which fast food chain has the slogan “Have it your way”?
6. Who discovered penicillin?
7. What musical instrument has 47 strings and 7 pedals?
8. What city hosted the 1996 Summer Olympics?
Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at the Maples Home for Seniors, Tavistock in his 91st year. Beloved husband of Shirley Anne (Zehr) Kropf whom he married September 7, 1957. Dear father of Joyce & husband Phil Roth of Chesley Lake, Duane of RR#1 Bright, Sharon & husband Greg Pye, James & wife Bonnie and Christine & husband Craig Beam all of Tavistock. Sadly missed by his grandchildren Krista & Kris, Meagan & Scott, Brandon, Marissa & Josh, Quin & Ciara, Deven & Lauren, Delaney and by great grandchildren Bella, Alyssa, Jake, Cole, Milo, Max, Arden and Mason. Survived by his brother Howard of Tavistock, sisters-in-law
Nancy Kropf of Hickson, Loreen & Lloyd Ropp of Tavistock, Anna & Ken Hofstetter of Kitchener.
Predeceased by his parents Joseph & Elizabeth (Roth) Kropf, triplet brothers Wilfred, Milford and Clifford, sister Mildred and husband James Burford, brother Sherman, sisters-in-law Helen Kropf and Erma & Ken Burgetz.
Relatives and friends will be received in the
9. An amethyst is usually what color?
10. What is the formal name for a human voice box?
One year has passed and we still think of you always. We miss your calls and our visits, but as we watch your daughter grow, so happy and loving singing songs of Jesus, we are reminded of you. It is such a Blessing.
Mom, Dad, Adam, Hayley, Grace, Dean, Jeremy in heaven, Scott, Sadie, Rebecca, Mike, Annabelle, Abigail, Charlotte
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette Weekly Quiz
The Old Gazettes
By Sydney Grant
Slowly but surely, I’m reading through the past pages of the Tavistock Gazette (est. 1895). Within this weekly column I’d like to share with you some of my findings.
July 15-22, 2015, Edition (10 years ago)
The Traxxside Transloading Tavistock PeeWee boys qualified to represent Ontario at the Western Canadian Championships in Winnipeg Aug. 6-9, by finishing third place at the Ontario elimination tournament in Napanee and Innerkip. The boys started by edging Springbrook 10-9 in extra innings. In Game 2, they defeated Twin Centre 3-0 but lost their next game to Innerkip 5-1. Tavistock played Dutton next and came out with an 8-7 win. Against Cobourg, the weather wouldn’t cooperate and the rest of the tournament was cancelled. The tournament continued in Innerkip on July 12 and the boys started the day by defeating Cobourg 6-4. In Game 2, Tavistock came out with a resounding 13-2 win over Innerkip, ensuring third place. Tavistock went on to play their third and most exciting game of the day with a tough 3-2 loss to Napanee in extra innings. The team is excited to represent Ontario at the Western Canadians in Winnipeg in August. Twenty-two residents were in attendance at the Village Café on Monday, June 1. Fresh fruit, muffins and coffee cake were served. A salad luncheon was enjoyed by 32 residents on June 17 with dessert provided by the third-floor residents. Gordon Bauman led in the blessing and wished everyone an enjoyable summer. The last potluck until September was attended by 39 residents and guests. Bauman welcomed new residents Murray and Barb Roth and gave thanks for the meal.
Success in the world of fiddle and stepdance competition in Ontario has its many rewards. Many of the former winners in the Southwestern Ontario Fiddle and Stepdance Championships held in Tavistock have gone on to enjoy their own careers, entertaining people across Canada and around the world. However, the result of that success is a shortage of senior competitors when it comes to the annual contest. Greg Henry won the open fiddle class and the Reel Deal (Maria Peppler, Grace Laceby and Charlotte Claire) of Orangeville won the group stepdance division at the 32nd annual Southwestern Ontario Fiddle and Stepdance Championships held in Tavistock on July 3 and 4, 2015.
Every year, the Shakespeare and Community Athletic Association (SCAA) chooses a recipient for the Honorary Service Award. This award is presented to the couple or individual who have given their time and energy to the SCAA. This year’s recipients are Doug and Gladys Horst. The citation reads as follows: “Doug and Gladys have been longtime members of the association. Both played ball in Shakespeare for many years. As
well, Doug has coached several different teams in minor ball.
July 10-17, 1985, Edition (40 years ago)
Mr. L. Earl Lohnes, a resident of The Maples Home for Seniors in Tavistock, was the recipient of his 50-year pin with the Masonic Lodge last Wednesday afternoon. Tavistock Lodge #609, A.F. & A.M. Worshipful Master V. Wor. Bro. Henry Fullick made the presentation at the nursing home on behalf of Mr. Lohnes’ home lodge, Marmora Lodge #222, Marmora, Ont. Also present was Tavistock chaplain Bro. Rev. Norman Morton. The 50-year pin and greetings from his home lodge were sent by secretary Rt. Wor. Bro. R. E. Neal along with best wishes for many more years of good health.
The Perth County Kennel Club held another successful dog show last Thursday and Friday at the Tavistock fairgrounds. Warm but breezy conditions prevailed both days for the 19th and 20th annual combination shows. Best in Show for Thursday was an American-Canadian champion bulldog, Sovereign’s Son of Thunder Bay, owned by Dorthia and Ted Begeman of Deford, Mich. Friday’s “Best in Show” went to S. Young of Smiths Falls, Ont., with a basset hound. “Best Puppy in Show” was A. Berg’s Newfoundland from London, Ont.
The week of July 3-11 will be a memorable one for five Scouts from this area as they took part in the sixth Canadian Jamboree. They were among 10,841 who participated in the gathering at Guelph Lake Conservation Area where a tent city grew overnight. The boys mingled with other Scouts from countries such as Portugal, Italy, Nigeria, United States, Bahamas, Jamaica, Scotland, Trinidad, Australia, Bermuda, Netherlands, Belgium and Malaysia. There were 158 participants from these other countries. In all there were 6,774 Scouts, 1,492 Venturers, 1,422 staff and 1,153 unit leaders. Jarrett Rudy and his brother Jensen of Tavistock were fortunate to be able to attend the Jamboree and Jarrett told of meeting boys from the Yukon and Northwest Territories and swapping badges with boys from every province in Canada.
July 9-16, 1975, Edition (50 years ago)
The Tavistock Rotary Club’s Hoe Down was an outstanding success. In spite of the oppressing heat in the arena, the beat of the tom-tom and the beck of the caller brought out the squares. Guests liked the Wayne Riehl orchestra and Egbert Jacobs, the caller. With his encouragement and the demonstrations by his square dance group, Tavistock might even get around to having a group of its own. Customers began to fill the tables even before the “porker” had been given a last turn. It proved to be a tasty innovation thanks to Willard Poll, Lakeview Lodge, Bamberg, who spent 10 hours over the spit. Three pigs had been cooked beforehand and the fourth, 175 pounds dressed, was done on the spit outside the arena.
TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK
GRACE UNITED CHURCH
116 Woodstock St. S., Tavistock Phone: 519-655-2151
All are welcome
Service led by Rev. Marilyn Arthur Music by Marilyne Nystrome
TRINITY LUTHERAN (ELCIC)
Sebastopol - Tavistock 2210 Perth Line 29
Pastor Steve Hoffard Worship In Person or on Zoom Sundays at 10:00 AM (519) 655-2372 trinitylcoffice@gmail.com www.trinitytavistock.com
TAVISTOCK MENNONITE
Pastor Julie Ellison White
131 Wettlaufer St., Tavistock 655-2581
Sunday Worship services begin at 9:45am, with coffee and fellowship to follow at 11am.
All ages Junior Sunday School will follow after the service.
All are Welcome Stream services online at www.tavistockmennonitechurch.ca
TAVISTOCK BIBLE CHAPEL
32 Oxford Street, Tavistock, Ontario Questions or Need Help? Text or Call: (519) 655-2413 tavistockbc.org
677044 16th Line Road, East Zorra Pastors Ray Martin & Mike Williamson www.ezmennonite.ca
Service audio recordings available at: https://ezmennonite.ca/worship/
WILMOT TOWNSHIP
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Corner of Waterloo St and Byron St, New Hamburg Weekly Sunday services at 10:15 am. All are welcome. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com
St James Chapel of Ease 4339 Huron Rd Wilmot Township All are welcome. Rev Margaret Walker; Office: 519-662-3450 sgacnewhamburg@gmail.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
Cassel Mennonite Church breakfast fundraiser supports Canadian food banks
For the past 10 years, members of Cassel Mennonite Church, located at the corner of the 17th Line and Cassel Sideroad, have been serving up a hearty breakfast with a purpose – raising funds Food Banks Canada.
What started as a simple idea to support a worthy cause has grown into a much-anticipated annual community event. Organizers decided early on to add a unique twist by inviting area farmers to bring along their tractors – big and small, old and new – to help draw attention and spark conversation.
drawing neighbours from all around to enjoy eggs, sausage, coffee and camaraderie. Over the years, the breakfast has
Canada while giving locals the chance to reconnect and appreciate the rich farming heritage of the region.
The combination has worked well,
raised thousands of dollars for Food Banks
From left, Keith Bell, Mel Campbell and Bill Murray discuss the International “B-N” tractor behind them – a 22-horsepower row crop machine that was once commonly used to pull a two-row corn planter. Campbell, from Drumbo, purchased the tractor from Tavistock’s Murray. Bell, also from Tavistock, joined the conversation, sharing his appreciation for the unique piece of machinery.
Members of the Cassel breakfast crew included, from left, Kristen Cressman, Lucas Swartzentruber, Tim Roth, Madi Cressman, Nancy Zehr, Donna Zehr, Katelynn Cressman and Dwight Zehr.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
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These vibrant hydrangeas in full bloom at the New Hamburg Library caught the eye of Christine Helmuth, who shared this cheerful summer sight on the Show Us Your Wilmot Facebook page.
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
EZT’s Kyle Smith returns from world softball tournament
Canada places fifth out of eight teams
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The local voice of men’s fastball has just returned from the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup in Prince Albert, Sask.
Kyle Smith is well-known as a broadcaster and for his connections to local sports. He also serves on East ZorraTavistock (EZT) Township’s recreation advisory committee.
Smith is an independent contractor and will receive an email asking if he can attend certain tournaments to announce games over the internet. This time around, he was reunited with fellow broadcasters Lance Winn and Kris Abbot.
“It was pretty cool. Kris and I have done a few events recently with the WBSC, and I broadcast with Lance a number of years ago. It was nice to be back with all of them, and it was a really good week.”
The trio called the same tournament at the same ballpark 10 years ago. Canada went into the tournament ranked fourth in the world and featured a solid roster that included Tavistock’s Mitch McKay. Smith said the team’s fifth-place finish isn’t that surprising.
“The top eight teams in the world were there, and you knew you couldn’t have any off games. In years past, there have been 10, 12 or 16 teams and there were games
you expected to win by a wide margin and wouldn’t have to necessarily play your number-one lineup. This year there were no games off.”
Smith said Canada fell short with a few aspects of its game, including capitalizing on runners in scoring position and perhaps the most important part of the sport, pitching.
“The guys didn’t pitch the way they were expected to coming into the tournament, but they were also playing against the best players in the world, so take it with a grain of salt. A lot of people didn’t think pitching would be Canada’s Achilles heel.”
Argentina, the top-ranked team coming into the tournament, wound up in fifth place while fourth-ranked Venezuela won gold with a 3-0 victory over number-eight Australia.
Smith played the game growing up and got into the broadcasting field with the help of Joe Todd, a legendary figure in the game from Ingersoll.
“I started in 2006 and it’s kind of snowballed from there. This was my ninth WBSC international tournament. It’s a way for me to give back to the game along with my involvement in Hickson. I chaired the committee that hosted the Canadians back in 2016 in Tavistock, and I hosted a national championship in Innerkip in 2018.”
Smith, who works as a seed and contract sales manager at Sevita International, added the game has given him a lot of opportunities to travel, including to Mexico and western Canada, including Whitehorse in the Yukon.
“The coolest thing about doing this is people have listened for so long and this week, I had a number of people come up to me thanking us for the broadcasts. When they can’t get to tournaments and we are on the air, that creates the connection.”
The fastball community is a very tightknit one and Smith explained while everyone is playing to win for their country, many of the rivals play on the same club teams at tournaments across the globe. He added the temperature has changed from decades ago.
“The rivalries are still there, but back in the ‘80s and ‘90s, the Canada/New Zealand rivalry was true hatred. They did not like each other. They may be friends now, but they still want to win.”
Smith, a parent of young children, also highlighted the support he gets at home from his immediate and extended family.
“My wife, Candace, has been tremendous in supporting me in these opportunities. Going away for 10, 12 days at a time, it takes a lot. Whether it’s my parents lending a hand or Candace’s mom helping out or friends offering to take one of my boys to a ball game, it allows me to get away and do this. Without that support at home, it definitely would not be possible.”
Kyle Smith, far right, called games at the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup in Prince Albert, Sask., last week. He was joined in the broadcast booth by old friends Lance Winn, left, and Kris Abbot.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF KYLE SMITH)
The New Zealand Black Sox and Team Canada prepare to battle on the opening day of the tournament, July 8.
Shakespeare fastball players help Elma U15 team qualify for national championships
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
For the first time in history, an Elma fastball team will compete on the national stage.
The U15 Elma Avengers punched their ticket to the Canadian Fastball Championships in Winkler, Man., following a thrilling fourth-place finish at the Ontario Amateur Softball Association (OASA) qualifiers held in Napanee from July 4-6.
Made up of talented players from Monkton, Atwood and two key contributors from Shakespeare – Benson Hodgson and Parker Glitz – the Avengers defied expectations with a strong 4-2 record. Their performance earned them one of just four coveted spots at the national championship.
After opening the tournament with a win against Innerkip, the Avengers faced elimination after a loss to Tara. But showing grit and resilience, the team bounced back in an intense two-hour-and-45-minute slugfest to edge out Springbrook 14-11. They then cruised to backto-back victories over Wilmot and Haldimand to clinch their place at nationals.
The Canadian U15 Fastball Championship is set for Aug. 13–17 in Winkler, and the Avengers are now calling on the community for sponsorship and donations to help fund their trip west.
“This will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for these young athletes,” said a team representative. “We’re hoping the community can rally behind them.”
Anyone interested in supporting the team can email elmaminorball@gmail.com.
Back row: Coach Ryan Buchanan. Middle row, from left: Coach Dakota Leung, Harlen Bootsman, Mason Erwin, Bryson Boyne, Ethan Smith, Parker Glitz, Cullen Buchanan, Myles Smith, Mason Beirnes, Rhyland Boyd, Reid Buchanan, Benson Hodgson, Liam Chambers and coach Steve Scholl. Front row: Coach Jeff Erwin.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
The Avengers face west toward Winkler, Man., where they will compete in the Canadian U15 Fastball Championships Aug. 13-17.
‘Rwanda Now’ produces ‘Big Three’ and myriad memories for Canadian traveller
BY JEFF TRIBE Gazette Contributor
The massive white rhino passed within 20 metres and continued southward, the makings of a credit card commercial in her wake.
Our rental vehicle cost a chunk, elevated suspension and four-wheel-drive invaluable on Akagera National Park’s driving trails. A Kayonza Café breakfast of samosas, meatballs, beignet and excellent Rwandan coffee ran $6 Canadian. And our paperless entrance fee came in at $100 U.S a head.
But less than a half-hour into our African safari, the $40-U.S-per-day services of local guide Firmin Hirwa had already proven priceless.
“Rhino!” he exclaimed, pointing off in the distance.
In rapid Kinyarwanda, Hirwa passed directions to our Canadian host, Rwandan expatriate Jean-Claude Munyezamu.
Pausing to let a young black mamba slither past, Munyezamu turned, heading back the way we had come. Hirwa expertly gauged the rhino’s path and pace, asking Munyezamu to stop and then back up 20 metres, a cape buffalo hoof from the previous evening’s lion kill banging off our left, rear wheel well.
Transfixed, we sat silently as the rhino covered the final 100 metres, angling directly in front of us and ambling onward, graceful for all her bulk.
“My name means lucky and today we are just that,” Hirwa said as our collectively held breaths released in awe and admiration.
We were on safari not in a zoo – but he and Akagera had delivered.
My unlikely path from Beaconsfield, Ont. to Akagera National Park, Rwanda led through a feature story with Munyezamu. A survivor of the 1994 genocide against
the Tutsi, he arrived in Canada as a refugee, settling in Calgary. Munyezamu started a soccer program to improve his public-housing neighbourhood, ultimately morphing into Umoja Community Mosaic (umojamosaic.org). The not-for-profit added a culturally sensitive food bank, after-school programs, leadership for young women and a popular community sewing circle.
Inspired during a 2022 visit to Munyezamu’s former village Kabura, Umoja initiated diasporic outreach bringing school uniforms, sports equipment, fresh water and a basketball/volleyball court to the community’s Umurava Primary School. A second fresh-water source for the village centre and improving a road rendered impassable during the rainy season are ongoing goals.
“Come to Rwanda,” said Munyezamu, who makes it a practice to share annual visits.
Beginning with family members, 20 out of 20 (a random yet illustrative number) people expressed significant reservations about a destination primarily recognized by Canadians as the site of horrific genocide.
Deeply respectful and desiring to learn how Munyezamu chose reconciliation over revenge, reassured by his declaration of safety and with a side hustle figuring out how my wife could check ‘African safari’ affordably off her bucket list, I only somewhat nervously boarded Ethiopian Airlines.
Full disclosure: my newspaper career was spent covering sports, council, knocking together happy features and building an outdoors column, not international political commentary. I will not be starting now. Anyone seeking the 60,000-foot overview is encouraged to source alternatives.
My view of a very different Rwanda than I might have expected – ‘Rwanda Now’ if you will – is the ground-level account of a person sharing something of what he experienced.
It began with a tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, presenting an intense, no-holds-barred, matter-of-fact and more-balanced account than I might have anticipated. It encompassed Rwandan history, colonialism and other factors leading to genocide. That and the aftermath included victim exhibits, survivors’ personal accounts and importantly, ongoing efforts to reconcile and rebuild following
unspeakable horror.
The memorial’s website (https://kgm. rw) includes an option to sign up for a virtual tour.
My day-one impression of Rwanda was that of a nation on the move with sidewalks full of bustling, uniformed students (school is free to Grade 9), mothers with babies, delivery people, joggers and welldressed professionals headed to work. Personal, people-moving and transport vehicles own a share of the road based on size, but motorcycle taxis prized for their ability to skirt traffic dart everywhere as Munyezamu compares them to “a pack of wild dogs.”
On rural highways, “Sophia” photo radar units (so named after a famous smart robot) text transgressors significant fines, thereby lowering previous levels of vehicular carnage. Bicycles remain key to the transportation system for everything from additional humans (the cheapest taxi) to cans of milk, furniture and produce like crates of chickens or up to a half-dozen bunches of bananas to market. Riders dismount to push huge loads up Rwanda’s purported “thousand hills,” the latter a serious underestimation.
Crossing Kigali streets requires either “Rwandan instincts” or common sense. There is little doubt however, should the worst occur, the mess would be cleaned up quickly. Rather than providing social assistance, the country offers paid employment including street sanitation, Kigali’s graffiti-free byways regularly swept clean as a result.
We stayed inside a classic two-bedroom apartment with ensuite bathrooms, kitchenette, WiFi and gated 24-hour security costing $300 U.S a week. An omnipresent streetside ATM equivalent seen everywhere from downtown Rwanda to isolated mountain villages sat outside. In essence, independent contractors under brightly coloured umbrellas staff desks holding thousands of Rwandan francs. The most
Continued on page 23
A female white rhino passes close by our vehicle in Akagera National Park, Rwanda.
(JEFF TRIBE PHOTOS)
Students from Umurava Primary School celebrate the gift of basketballs from Basketball Tillsonburg and soccer balls from Tillsonburg Minor Soccer Club Friday, June 20 in Kabura, Rwanda. The celebration includes Umoja Community Mosaic executive director JeanClaude Munyezamu (orange shirt) and Umurava coach Patrick Ndagijimana (centre, holding the soccer ball).
A young soccer player from Kabura, Rwanda illustrates the difference between a ball constructed from plastic bags and twine (in his right hand) and a factory-made equivalent donated by the Tillsonburg Minor Soccer Club.
remote corner of the country is well-connected by cell service exceeding that at our rural Canadian countryside. Clients present a code on their phone to proprietors who hand over cash, receiving a transaction percentage for their efforts.
The ATMs and the fact one sees women walking alone on city streets late at night allayed pre-trip fears. Munyezamu recommended protecting one’s cell phone from crimes of opportunity in busy markets for example, but overall, personal safety was not a concern.
We breakfasted a short stroll away, past a medical centre typically filled with mothers and young children, part of universal health care our host says is provided via a variable geared-to-income contribution. A six-egg Spanish omelette at Emmanuel Ntuyenabo’s Good Mood Coffee Shop cost the equivalent of a toonie, with a burger and fries costing $5. Ntuyenabo’s is partially farm-to-table, its rural base a progressive multi-hectare operation employing 11. In terms of agriculture, the lush nature of Rwanda’s hilly landscape was a surprise, in effect much of the country is a multi-crop garden. There are ongoing efforts to modernize smaller subsistence operations of under an acre.
Food was very affordable, chicken curry, rice and salad at the Kayonza Cafe running $14 Canadian, another $10 on top at Hotel de Mille Collines – the Hotel Rwanda. As a general rule of thumb, the more white people you see, the more it will cost. There definitely is a tourist versus local price Munyezamu helped us avoid on most occasions.
We mzungu (white people) were a curiosity, mildly so in Kigali, more so in Kabura where students crowded around, curious to discover what mzungu skin or hair feels like.
Soccer was queen; incredibly talented kids in sandals playing on every bit of available space with homemade balls historically made from banana leaves tied up in twine, evolved into plastic cores. Presenting a factory-made ball to a kid in a Vancouver Canucks jersey drew a crowd approaching 100, seemingly from nowhere, within five minutes.
Travelling the countryside offered striking contrasts: farm labourers hand-milling rice backdropped by subdivisions, translatable to Canadian counterparts, speaking to a growing middle class; women carrying stacks of fruit or vegetables on their head, corralling a baby on one hip while chatting on a cell phone held in their other hand;
Kigali mansions, the modern 10,000-seat BK Arena hosting Masai Ujuri’s Giants of Africa basketball tournament in both 2023 and 2025; and construction cranes busy as the capital begins to grow up, compared to neat and tidy plaster-faced and painted, baked mud-and-straw brick houses more prevalent in rural areas.
Progress includes rebuilding Akagera in conjunction with African Parks from devastation caused during the genocide and, subsequently, the 40,000 cattle accompanying returning refugees. Sharing profits and hiring locally encouraged regional support which, with regular patrols, has drastically reduced poaching. Animal populations have also been bolstered by a combination of transplantation and reintroduction. Lions came back in 2015, rising in number to an estimated 60 today, and rhino in 2017, re-qualifying Akagera as a “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and cape buffalo) park.
We would finish with a “Big Three,” the penultimately shy leopard and elephants – approached with caution at the best of time – remaining elusive. Beyond rhino, buffalo and lions, we saw multiple species including amphibious hippos, giraffe, herds of impala, topi, zebra, waterbuck and feisty warthogs among them, along
with “life list” African birds. It’s beyond arrogance to feel one can figure out a country in a couple of weeks, particularly viewing through a North America bias rather than African lens, despite our privilege in accompanying Munyezamu to places foreigners don’t go. But my consistent impression that, regardless where you are, whether you’re mzungu or otherwise, “People are pretty much people,” was only reinforced. In other words, the great majority of us are just trying to pay our bills, have a little fun, feel safe and secure, and believe in some form of a better future for our children. And that Rwanda seems to be striving to build opportunities that, through an accident of privileged geographical birth in Canada, we tend to take for granted.
Unquestionably, the nation faces ongoing challenges, but an initial sense of a narrative moving forward, a country and its people seeing the potential benefits and being willing to put in the work required, was not changed. Neither was the thought it’s a pretty good place for a tourist to experience Africa.
And even if the elephants and leopards didn’t cooperate, that only provided one more reason to return.
A giraffe takes a quick drink at Akagera National Park as two compatriots scan for trouble.
Rwanda Basketball Federation executive director Fiona Ishimwe stands in front of the modern, 10,000 seat BK Arena in Kigali, the city’s 45,000-seat soccer stadium to the rear.
Emmanuel Ntuyenabo shows off a cob of roasted “maize” for sale at his Kigali-based Good Mood Coffee Shop, grown on his family farm outside of the city.
Students from Umurava Primary School perform a traditional dance during a ceremony celebrating the school’s new basketball/volleyball court, constructed in conjunction with Umoja Community Mosaic and Stampede Rotary Club, Calgary.
A forward from Umurava Primary School looks to control the ball under the watchful eye of GS Rubira’s goalie and fans during an all-Kabura “friendly” between the two schools.
The local milkman enjoys a quiet moment at Kabura village centre.
Jean-Claude Munyezamu sources money from a street-side “ATM.”
Eagle-eyed Akagera National Park guide extraordinaire Firmin “Lucky” Hirwa.
A farm labourer puts down a bundle of freshly cut hay to check his phone in a hilly section of Rwanda.
A bounty of beautiful berries
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold
Blueberries may be bitesized, but they are supersized when it comes to body-boosting benefits inside and out. Whether lowbush, meaning wild, or high bush referring to cultivated, these purple or blue sapphire stunning spheres are native to North America.
Why eat a bowl of blueberries?
First off, they are a low-calorie, whole food containing a mere 84 calories in a cup. With an 85 percent water content, blue beauties are super hydrating. Blueberries are considered low carbohydrate, and therefore a top pick with fans
of the ketogenic diet and definitely on the approved list for carnivorediet lovers. Their fabulously high-fibre content promotes satiety, making them perfect for busy bees needing a snack on the go. Blueberries’ deep-blue colour is due to a phytochemical called anthocyanins which have shown amazing effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. In other words, antidiabetic effects. Thanks again to their fantastic fibre, blueberries are also a digestive dream, increasing transit time. No one wants to be constipated.
They are truly a nutritional superfood, offering an array of antioxidants, minerals and vital vitamins. As a holistic nutritionist, I love recommending whole foods. Blueberries check all the boxes. One cup contains 25 per cent of the daily recommended vitamin C content, and that means one super-stocked smoothie can help combat a cold naturally. Vitamin C is outstanding for offsetting the stress hormone, cortisol, and supporting collagen production for sensational skin. Blueberries are also good for the knees thanks to manganese. Did I mention eye-health helper vitamin A and bone-building vitamin K.
Blueberries are astounding antioxidant foods, helping protect the body from free radicals, and from unstable molecules.
Blueberries may support healthy blood pressure according to a 2024 review. Eating blueberries every day for a month is a taste sensation while helping improve blood flow and blood-vessel dilation, the perfect holistic helper.
Next up are raspberries. The small, sweet, yet tart ruby red berry is native to Europe. A little unknown fact; they are found in black, purple and even shades of yellow. Raspberries may be delicate but offer dramatic health benefits.
One cup contains just 64 calories, low sugar and, with eight grams of fibre, they are in the same league as blueberries. Both berries are low glycemic and unlikely to raise blood sugar.
This holistic nutritionist loves their 85 per-cent water content, making them a refreshing snack on summertime fun-time excursions. They contain an array of antioxidants or plant
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Wilmot Canada Day 2025 thanks!
Janet and I would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the members of this year’s Wilmot Canada Day Task Force. We are immensely thankful and truly honoured to have collaborated with each of you as a team to realize and celebrate a remarkable community event. It is important to us to acknowledge every individual for their contributions, so we would like to mention each person in no particular order: Marta Doucet, Ed Penner, Susan Hammer, Kathy Gray, Rochelle Thiel, Abbi Stevenson, Brian Roth, Paul Mackie, Natasha Salonen and Steve Martin. Additionally, we would like to express
our appreciation to Misha Habel, Manny O’krafka, Becky Riek and the rest of the township staff for their efforts in hosting and ensuring the day proceeded smoothly. Most importantly, we would like to express our gratitude to the numerous volunteers, community groups, vendors, businesses and sponsors. This truly embodies the spirit of community! We sincerely thank each and every one of you!
Sincerely, Lou Divita, New Hamburg
compounds that protect cells against damage and many chronic diseases. The vitamin C content is sky high, offering 54 per cent of the recommended daily intake or RDI. The marvelous manganese is 41 per cent, and the vitamin K, magnesium and copper deserve a shoutout.
The dynamic duo is delicious and nutritious. With fresh, local garden goodness so close, and considering summer’s hot and humid days are short-lived, enjoy while you can! Berries are versatile. Start the morning with breakfast options from cereal toppers to yogurt to blended in smoothies or piled high on pancakes. Continue the meal planning and incorporate a bevy of berries. Scatter scads on spinach salads with goat cheese and delight in desserts. Swap ooey gooey desserts for healthier crumbles, berry loaves, dip in chocolate and slather chia-based
fruit jams on berry scones. Small-town goodness is my share of the day. TNT Berries in Shakespeare provides patrons with everything berry lovers require to pick-your-own or purchase freshly picked or frozen. This year is exciting, as raspberry and blueberry season are crossing over with the crazy weather. Reach out on social @tntberries or surf their site, tntberries.com, for prices, ordering information and picking times.
Not too far away, another local love with a bounty of berries to nosh on is the super fabulous Fall Harvest Farm located in Wellesley. Follow on social @ fall_harvest_farm and check out their website fallharvestfarm.ca for the latest and greatest. Support local! Have an idea or question to answer? Send me an email at mercedeskaygoldfitness@gmail. com.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Prime Ministers Path removal
Baden has been my home for close to 50 Years. To some in this country, I would be considered a settler. I feel only Canadian.
I would like to tell my grandchildren where they fit into this story and how they shouldn’t feel defined by their ancestors’ mistakes. To help do that, it would be fitting for the statues of the prime ministers to remain. They should know the whole good as well as horrible truth of what people, nations and countries did and continue to do for power and control.
In 2025, we should all be working together on intertwining values that enhance both Indigenous and settler, not labelling or shaming.
By having the statues remain, it’s a
perfect teaching and learning opportunity. Along with the visual arts of Indigenous and settler, there could be literary performances and live musical acts expressing our various cultures. I believe this has the ability to help heal the pain and division as we all live the best version of ourselves. Indigenous advocate, guide and teacher, the late Honourable Murray Sinclair, also believed the answer is not by erasing the names of people we don’t like but by “trying to find a balance in the telling of the history of this country.”
Marlene Miller, Baden
(MERCEDES KAY GOLD PHOTOS)
Raspberries courtesy of Fall Harvest Farm.
Blueberries courtesy of TNT Berries.
Five star dining in a lakeside village
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
Waskesiu, Sask., is not exactly a bustling urban centre. The permanent population of this resort town, located within Prince Albert National Park, is something stretching bravely toward 100 people. Of course, that multiplies geometrically in high-tourist season when thousands of visitors arrive in Waskesiu to enjoy the lake, the forests, the zip lines and the art galleries and shops that are rather typical of a tourist resort.
What is definitely not typical of a lakeside community of this size is the restaurant located a short stroll from the beach – Restaurant Pietro, a five-star foodie delight that is a stunning surprise for any casual visitor like me.
I was in Waskesiu during a really fine golfing trip hosted by Tourism Saskatchewan. Our last two days of golf were at Elk Ridge, just south of Prince Albert National Park, so our hosts took us to dinner at Restaurant Pietro. When I saw the town, I was expecting a tourist-town, pub-style menu. What we got instead was one of the dining highlights of my life. The fare is described as “quality, local food made with love.”
Restaurant Pietro is the creation of three culinary partners – Gary Gagne, Garry Findlay and Chef Evan Niekamp. The restaurant was founded 12 years ago and,
from the outset, has been committed to providing a superb, eclectic menu and top-notch service.
The concrete evidence of that can be summed up in two words: “Caesar Salad.” I don’t know when you last had a Caesar salad done right, made at your table by an expert, but when the process unfolds before you, it’s a work of art.
At Pietro, it’s Gagne – who explains that he’s the unpretentious one, with only one “r” in his name – who prepares the salad. He brings a loaded tray of ingredients, chats and tells stories as he works, and ultimately presents diners with the best Caesar salad they are likely to taste anywhere.
And then he admits that he doesn’t eat Caesar salad. After decades of making them – thousands and thousands of them – he’s content to leave that pleasure to his customers!
He’s also content to share his Caesar secrets with anyone. When I expressed appreciation for his work, he brought a cookbook to the table and it included his own recipe for Caesar salad. And he was happy to let me grab a photo, so now I possess the recipe, if not the expertise.
One detail that impressed me was there is almost as much attention given to the creation of the croutons as there is to the other
elements or the salad. And that in microcosm is the secret to the wonder that is Pietro’s – attention to every detail! Another example; it’s a smallish restaurant, but Chef Evan insists on butchering their own top-tier steaks on site!
The other Garry – he of the “pretentious two Rs” – is the wine expert, but is also very happy to wait on tables. Like his two partners, he is a devout believer in their enterprise. When he first came to Pietro’s, he knew a good thing when he saw one and insisted that he be more than an employee – he would be a partner or nothing.
He told me that the remote location of the five-star establishment makes for a perfect lifestyle. The partners and their staff work hard during tourist season, and then are free to vacation or work elsewhere the rest of the year. Findlay spends several weeks skiing in the winter months.
And yes, the staff does work hard. The place is full all the time; reservations are essential. But the staff I saw all seemed to be enjoying themselves. That includes the kitchen staff. I was invited to step into the small cooking area where the magic happens, and even the guy washing dishes was laughing.
The food? I started – wisely –with Caesar salad, and then took Findlay’s recommendation, a haddock special. I know; ordering an ocean fish in land-locked Saskatchewan may seem silly, but it was amazing, served with lobster and shrimp, risotto and fresh asparagus.
The wine? I bucked tradition and went for red, even with fish, and the merlot was terrific. Most of the wines on their menu are $20 per glass. The wine list draws high praise from customers who post reviews online.
My dessert choice was a white chocolate crême brulê. Enough said.
There is a paragraph on the restaurant’s website that is so apt that I am going to risk being accused of plagiarism and quote it directly.
“It takes more than exquisite cooking to make a memorable meal. Set in beautiful Waskesiu, we at Pietro believe an intimate atmosphere in the right location, personal and attentive service and great company are what separates a delicious dinner from an unforgettable experience.”
And that it was. Unforgettable.
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)
The feature of the day at Restaurant Pietro, as recommended by Garry Findlay.
Waskesiu streetscape; a village of less than 100 inhabitants welcomes thousands every summer.
Gary Gagne with all the ingredients for his amazing Caesar salad. The maestro at work!
The unpretentious entrance to Restaurant Pietro.
Entricken’s - bricks and tiles to go
VINTAGE VIEWS
By Tim Mosher Tavistock and District Historical Society
Entricken’s was a large brickyard located on the 15th Line of East Zorra Township, a little south-east of Tavistock. It was owned by Frank W. Entricken, a man known for his red and white bricks, field tiles and his world-champion pacer racehorse, The Eel, that died under mysterious circumstances. Mr. Entricken is standing on the right in the picture. No one else is identified.
By April 1900, the Tavistock Gazette reported that Entricken’s was a serious concern, with 15 employees and three large kilns (ovens) that had a total capacity of 240,000 bricks. Each season, about 1,000 cords of four-foot-long (1.22 metre) softwood would be burned to heat the kilns and fire (bake) the bricks or tiles. The firing causes a chemical reaction in the clay changing it from greenware (clay shaped and ready for firing), to a permanently hardened, waterproof material, i.e. the final brick (bisqueware). Innumerable local homes, businesses and institutions were constructed using the bricks from Entricken’s yard.
Tiles, too, for draining farmers’ fields were also produced in large quantities here, from 1,000 to 11,000 feet (305 to 3,350 metres) per day, varying due to the size of the terracotta weeping tiles. Well-drained fields improve soil health, a concept well-understood for millennia.
Entricken’s location had an unusual advantage as it had two colours of clay readily available: white and red. Two teams of carriages were on the road every day delivering their wares.
Close inspection of this photo reveals interesting details. The second man on the left is holding a brick form that the soft greenware was pressed into. Then, the fifth man on the right would use his two-handled wooden scraper to remove excess clay from the form by sliding his board across its surface. The third man on the left is holding an oil or water can for an unknown purpose.
The local milliner did good business, as everyone was wearing a hat. Suspenders or overalls with bibs were common work ware; belts didn’t become popular until after World War I due to the lowering of men’s waist lines. The lad on the left is clearly a minor, so either he had part-time employment here or the schoolmarm is wondering where he is. This appears to be a shoulder-season photo because everyone is wearing multiple layers despite working near the very hot kilns, including a few in union suits (one-piece underwear from neck to ankle), with the sleeves visible. There’s almost no vegetation, save the leafy trees in the background.
Ironically, the brick wall behind the third man on the left seems to be collapsing. Take a look at your homes, shops and meeting places constructed circa 1900. The bricks used to build them likely came from Entricken’s – a silent echo from the past.
LAST WEEK’S HISTORY MYSTERY:
The photo was of a cedar tree, its gargantuan size emphasized by a man posing with it to provide comparative scale. The question was: “What is the connection between cedar trees and the mortician’s trade?” open
they were taken. This is an excellent example showing labourers posing for a picture in their dusty work clothes. A great illustration of days gone by without any pomp or artifice but whose ultimate purpose remains a mystery.
to ages 21 and under. No one forwarded the correct answer. The answer is: Cedars produce an oil that repels insects and rot and so has been used since time immemorial for embalming and building caskets. Shipwrights also favour cedar for boats’ hulls.
THIS WEEK’S HISTORY MYSTERY: What’s the connection between the men’s
facial hair in this photo and cycling? This question is open to all ages. Send your answer to tim_mosher@hotmail.com. The first reader to respond correctly will have their name, community or rural route number published in the next edition of Vintage Views.
The Globe and Fail: What do they know about young people’s desire to buy homes?
The Globe and Mail managed to post what might be the most offensive article I’ve ever come across.
The headline read, “More Canadians are buying their first homes later in life, and they’re okay with that.”
No, we’re not okay with that. We’re pissed off. We’re resentful of older generations who decided the sanctity of an ultra-capitalistic society was worth preventing us from having the opportunities to have our own places to live at the same ages that our parents and grandparents did. We’re not resentful of our parents and grandparents specifically, but the fact is, the damage was done before we had a voice or even a heartbeat.
The article cites declining home ownership among younger adults and what they portray as a free-spirited la-di-da attitude.
Apparently, younger adults aren’t buying homes because they just don’t want to right now, as evidenced by the falling home-buying rate.
Look, I know it’s legal now, but you shouldn’t be that high when you write an article for a major publication.
Apparently, we would rather travel instead. They actually say younger adults are “undaunted by the pressure to reach certain financial and life milestones by a certain age,” and that we’re “living life on our own terms and at our own pace.”
Firstly, it’s not like taking vacations started with my generation. I’m pretty sure previous generations went on trips and did so while owning a home. Don’t believe me? National Lampoon’s Vacation was based on a typical family, not some distant planet we had magically gotten a vision from.
Secondly, the reason younger generations might take a vacation is to have a
brief, momentary escape from the deadend future we’ve been sentenced to.
The article also goes on to have quotes from a financial planner who, I’m sure, has lived the same experience my generation has and says these late, first-time homebuyers can still save for retirement by “getting a second source of income, taking in renters, working past retirement age and living more frugally.”
Hey, if you just wanted absolutely nothing and wanted to work forever, you could have everything you’ve ever wanted, unless another billionaire wants to shoot a rocket into space. Then the younger generation might need to settle for a bit less than nothing. I’m sure The Globe and Mail will be right there to tell us how excited we are about having less than nothing.
I don’t know why, but The Globe and Mail decided they would try to gaslight people under 40 into thinking that, somehow, having destitute futures no matter
how hard we work and what salary we make is actually a good thing.
It sucks.
It sucks having no possibility of owning or even renting my own home unless I marry someone with a successful OnlyFans account. It sucks making a wage that should be enough and never is. It sucks working so hard for so little. And it’s not because of one political party; each one is to blame. It’s because of a brainwashing the wealthiest among us paid to have multiple generations indoctrinated into.
The Globe and Mail didn’t post that article because they are Liberal or Conservative. They posted it because they are just one more example of a corporation run by people with the same ultra-capitalistic fetish that the generations before mine devoted their lives to.
We’re not okay with it, but no one who can change it truly cares.
John Lemp and the five photographers who preceded his longtime photo (and pharmacy) business took many pictures of ordinary working life, but it’s often not clear why
(PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN; LEMP STUDIO COLLECTION #5017)
Huron Perth Public Health releases 2024 annual report
AMANDA MODARAGAMAGE Gazette Reporter
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) has released its 2024 annual report, offering a detailed overview of the programs and services delivered across the region with a stronger emphasis on immunization efforts compared to the previous year’s post-pandemic focus.
This year’s report outlines HPPH’s ongoing vision to optimize health and wellbeing by taking action to protect and promote population health, prevent disease and enhance the quality of life for residents.
“The HPPH 2024 Annual Report includes updates on core public health programs and services likely familiar to our community, such as infectious disease control, immunizations and Healthy Babies Healthy Children,” said Dr. Miriam Klassen, Huron-Perth medical officer of health.
“Our report also describes several new initiatives that leverage technology, partnerships and the latest evidence to achieve public health goals. These include leading the infection prevention and control (IPAC) hub to support congregate settings, widely sharing our social connection
primer and launching a new opioid-monitoring tool.”
As mandated under the Ontario Health Protection and Promotion Act, HPPH followed up on suspected and confirmed outbreaks of gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses in long-term care and retirement homes.
resulting in 3,640 total immunizations. In response to vaccine access gaps, two COVID-19 clinics were held in St. Marys, identified as an underserved area.
Health-promotion efforts this year focused on healthy eating, alcohol and substance use, reproductive health, and enforcement of the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. Of the 163 total complaints under the act, roughly 81 per cent came from schools, primarily due to student vaping infractions.
The report also highlights HPPH’s commitment to equity, anti-racism, diversity and inclusion. The Health Equity Team developed the HPPH Anti-Racism, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Lens to help staff embed these principles into programs and services throughout the region.
In 2024, 73 outbreaks were declared in these facilities. Of these, 104 were confirmed cases of influenza. There were 20 confirmed cases of COVID-19, which resulted in 14 deaths between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2024.
HPPH provided 102 in-school immunization clinics across Huron-Perth for routine Grade 7 and Grade 10 vaccines,
Climate, community
On the environmental health front, HPPH expanded its “Check What We Inspect” disclosure website. In 2024, institutional food service kitchens were added, allowing the public to view inspection results for hospitals, child-care centres, long-term care homes and retirement homes.
Looking ahead, HPPH plans to include inspection results for personal-service settings (hair salons, aesthetics, tattoo studios) and recreational water facilities (pools, spas, splash pads, wading pools) on its website in 2025.
In 2024, the Healthy Smiles Ontario program reached 7,400 children in junior kindergarten, senior kindergarten and grades 2, 4 and 7 across the region.
The Healthy Babies Healthy Children program, including its Anabaptist Community Work initiative, expanded to two sites in Huron County.
The report also touches on improvements in communication, website development, surveillance, health assessment and research.
For more information or to read the full report, visit www.hpph.ca.
Staying safe online: WRDSB offers update after recent phishing attempt
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) is updating students and families after a recent phishing attempt targeted board staff and student email accounts.
In a press release issued July 14, the school board said it is actively monitoring the situation and has already taken key steps to protect students.
“At this time, we not aware of any WRDSB email accounts that have been compromised,” the press release states. “We are providing this update out of an abundance of caution and to remind students and families about cyber safety and security.”
What happened
What WRDSB has done
A number of student and staff accounts received fake job-offer emails that included links to suspicious Google Forms. These emails did not come from WRDSB and were part of an external phishing scam intended to collect personal information.
As soon as the school board became aware of the situation, staff acted quickly and thoroughly:
• Blocked the email addresses and links involved
• Reported the fraudulent forms to
Google
• Removed the phishing emails from students’ inboxes
• Initiated a review of the board system to ensure ongoing security
“We are continuing to monitor for any further activity and remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure digital
environment for all students and staff,” the release said.
What students and families can do
WRDSB is encouraging students and families to stay informed and practice good online safety habits:
• Avoid clicking on links in emails that seem suspicious or too good to be true
• Delete any unexpected job-offer emails
• If you or your child clicked a link or shared personal information, contact info@wrdsb.ca
• Remind your child to check with a trusted adult before responding to unexpected messages
WRDSB says it is remaining vigilant and is prepared to take additional action if needed. WRDSB offers a Digital Citizenship – Guide For Parents at www. wrdsb.ca/wp-content/uploads/digital-citizenship-guide.pdf which can be used to support conversations around online safety.
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Pic-nic In the Park
For Seniors Activities Tavistock
Entertainment : Dianne & Gary The Cavaliers, with Johnnie Givens on fiddle.
Lunch : 12:00 to 1 pm from Tavi Chill
Music & Dancing : 1.30 to 3.30 pm
Bring lawn chair.
Call Don Junker details and tickets (519) 535-7052
Queens Park Pavilion
1 Adam St, Tavistock
SUNDAY, JULY 20
Breakfast in the Park
8:30 a.m. to Noon
Sponsored by the Optimist Club of Petersburg Petersburg Park, 1338 Notre Dame Dr., Petersburg
MONDAY, JULY 21
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
S.W.A.T, El Milagro, Serial Grillers, Beavertails
Donations to Maples Retirement Home
Family Council
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
MONDAY, JULY 28
Vacation Bible School hosted by Oasis Mennonite Church
July 28 – August 1, 2025
9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
To pre-register or for questions contact Kenton Shantz 519-729-7160 kshantz20@ gmail.com
Oasis Mennonite Church
66 Mill Street, Baden, ON
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Born2Eat, Wild Boar, Los Rolling Tacos
Donations to Grace United Church 116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
Wilmot Council meeting
7-11 p.m.
Council chambers 60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting 9 a.m.
Council Chambers 89 Loveys Street East, Hickson
TOPS - Taking off Pounds Sensibly Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m.
TOPS is a non-judgmental weight loss support group. Need help on your weight loss journey. For info call Cathie 519-662-9273. St James Church, Baden
FRIDAY, AUGUST 8
Optimist Club of Tavistock Friday Night Fries
4 - 8 pm
Optimist Food Trailer Tavistock Optimist Park
MONDAY, AUGUST 11
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Pablas Street of India, Serial Griller, S.W.A.T Donations to Tavistock Medical Clinic
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
Perth East council meeting
MONDAY, AUGUST 25
Food Trucks at Grace United Church 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Berlin 95, Born2Eat, Los Rolling Tacos, Beavertails
Donations to Grace United Church 116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26
Wellesley Council meeting 6:45 p.m.
Council chambers
4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill
FREE SENIORS ACTIVITIES
Tavistock Seniors Activities
Pickleball Monday, Wednesday and Friday afternoon, 12-4. Contact: Don Junker 519-535-7052
Cards Monday , Wednesday afternoon 1-4, euchre, crib (bring board), etc. Just drop in to play, good to bring someone . Contact: Bob Routly 519-301-2118
Shuffleboard @ arena, Wednesday 12:30-4 and Thursday 10-4. Contact: Don Junker 519-535-7052.
VON Smart Seniors Exercise, Tuesday and Thursday morning 9 - 10; Village Manor 10:25
Deadline: Tuesday prior at 3 p.m. Contact: thewtgazette@gmail.com
CLASSIFIED ADS —
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.
