Wilmot council has unanimously approved $300,000 in capital funding for the initial work on the Wilmot Recreation Complex (WRC) aquatics centre dehumidification replacement project, to be funded through the township’s infrastructure
The current HVAC system is in need of replacement, which will be addressed as part of the 2026 capital budget. In the meantime, township staff have requested the installation of split-air mechanical units to help relieve pressure on the aging system and provide a safe and clean environment for pool patrons.
The facility currently relies on an endof-life Dry-O-Tron dehumidification unit, which plays a critical role in managing indoor air quality, humidity and ambient temperature in the pool area.
“The evaluation determined that the system is in poor condition, and escalating component failures are anticipated to
Following years of arguments, vandalism and controversy, the Prime Ministers Path is be reinstalled in Baden.
At its July 28 meeting, Wilmot Township council adopted a resolution that will see nine statues return to the grounds of Castle Kilbride.
“This was not a decision made lightly,” said Mayor Natasha Salonen. “The future of the Prime Ministers Path has been a subject of deep reflection in our community. While perspectives differ, council has listened carefully. The path forward represents a balanced response to the feedback we heard – rooted in education, inclusion and fiscal responsibility.”
Council’s decision includes:
• Reinstalling the statues at the current site, including the four currently in storage, with no further tax dollars committed beyond standard park maintenance plus storage costs. Council requested that staff report back with the estimated costs of reinstalling the statues at a future meeting.
• Relocating the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald to a more discreet area of the park, accessible by
New Hamburg area farmer Jeff Good loads wheat into the grain buggy while his father operates the combine on the western edge of town, near the B-W Feed Mill. Full story and more photos on page 2.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Wilmot acts to improve air quality at pool with $300K HVAC stopgap
continue this year,” said Chris Catania, director of community services, during a presentation to council on July 28.
The system runs continuously – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year – resulting in a shortened life cycle of approximately 15 years, with increased maintenance needs starting at the 10-year mark.
Over the past several months, the WRC aquatics centre has experienced increasing operational issues with the deteriorating Dry-O-Tron, leading to intermittent program disruptions and, in some cases, facility closures.
Warm water environments – used for
therapy, aquafit classes and children’s swimming lessons – require extra vigilance due to elevated temperatures and a diverse group of users with varying health needs.
The pool environment also has a direct impact on staff, including lifeguards and instructors. Poor air circulation and high humidity can cause fatigue, dehydration and reduced alertness, compromising both safety and performance.
As part of the HVAC redesign project, DEI Consulting Engineers completed an assessment of the current system.
Based on updated calculations, the
existing HVAC system is working 40 per cent harder than it was originally designed for, placing significant strain on the equipment and causing more frequent breakdowns and inefficient operation.
The strain on the system has remained consistent and costly, resulting in more than $80,000 in taxpayer-funded repairs since 2024.
The proposal includes the immediate installation of split-air units in the upper viewing galleries to ease the burden on the central system.
“This will help reduce the likelihood and severity of further disruptions while
the broader HVAC design or redesign is in progress,” said Catania. “The split air units will be incorporated into the overall HVAC modelling and calculations for the new system, as they are necessary to help balance humidity and maintain air quality in the upper viewing galleries.”
The units provide targeted heating and cooling independent of the central HVAC system, improving comfort for spectators while helping to reduce operational stress on the aging Dry-O-Tron.
The cost of the complete replacement of the HVAC dehumidification system scheduled for next year is estimated at $900,000.
Wheat harvest in full swing across Tavistock and New Hamburg areas
The golden glow of wheat fields is quickly giving way to stubble as farmers across Perth County and Waterloo Region make the most of an ideal harvest season.
Over the past week, every type of farm
machinery from combines and grain buggies to big round and square balers have been running at full capacity, gathering this year’s winter wheat crop and straw.
Whether it’s hard red or soft red winter wheat, local farmers say the weather has been nearly perfect for harvest. A bit of rain over the weekend was
welcomed by most growers, as it brought relief after a stretch of dry days in what many are calling one of the most unique growing seasons in recent memory.
Area farms and commercial elevators are moving massive volumes of grain. Across the region, thousands of tonnes of wheat are passing through elevators daily,
with combines of every colour humming across fields from dawn to dusk.
Local farmers and elevator operators say test weights have been strong, and wheat quality has been rated excellent. Prices, however, have begun to soften slightly in recent days.
tending animals and delivering lunches and water to
At left, Keith Schultz of Brunner unloads wheat for Hart Farms of North Easthope, while Stoneybrook Elevator owner Chad Hachborn enjoys the sunshine as another load comes in. “It’s been an incredibly busy few days,” he said.
Stoneybrook Elevator office manager and scale supervisor Tracy Hachborn shows 14-year-old Tyler Reis of Shakespeare how to weigh wagons and trucks during the harvest rush. Tyler is spending his summer holidays gaining work experience and making a little extra money.
Custom operator Dan Bell was hard at work last week with three large square balers running in North Easthope fields. His team also had two combines and grain buggies operating full-time. Bell said he’s crossing his fingers for zero breakdowns. His wife, Brianne, and their three children stay busy
the crew.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Wilmot council votes to restore Prime Ministers Path with new vision
personal choice rather than public prominence.
• Creating a volunteer-led committee to oversee the project’s future direction and develop inclusive, historically grounded educational content. Council requested that the committee also consider the inclusion of a community garden as part of the project with input from local Indigenous groups.
• Securing all future funding through private donations, partnerships, or grants with no municipal dollars allocated to programming or expansion.
• Considering a new name for the path in consultation with the community to better reflect its renewed purpose. About a dozen delegations were made before members of council had their say on the motion to bring the statues back.
Coun. Kris Wilkinson said he had a recent conversation with a resident that stuck with him.
“He said in the U.S., if you ask kids what they want to be, they want to be president. In Canada, you rarely ever hear a child say they want to grow up and be prime minister. That’s sad. It’s a shame because leadership matters. Government matters.”
He added our young people should be inspired to participate in the political process.
“Not turned off, not made cynical and not left to inherit a culture that avoids its own history. We’re not just reinstalling statues, we are restarting a conversation, one that acknowledges Canada’s complexity, honours the diversity of views in our community and gives space to nuance.”
Coun. Lillianne Dunstall mentioned several injustices by past prime ministers and governments but doesn’t want society to hide from them.
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Publisher
Stewart Grant • stew@granthaven.com
Editor
Galen Simmons • galen@granthaven.com
Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries
Erin Parsons • thewtgazette@gmail.com
Business Development
Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com
Billing Administrator
Cindy Boakes • boakescindy1576@gmail.com
Administrative Assistant
Wendy Lamond • wendylamond74@gmail.com
Contributors
Lee Griffi, Gary West, Paul Knowles, Mercedes Kay Gold, Julia Paul, Amanda Modaragamage
36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 thewtgazette@gmail.com | 519.655.2341 | granthaven.com
or we don’t want to face the fact history is human and it is shaped by the fears, beliefs and flat decisions. When we judge the past only through today’s lens, we risk losing an opportunity to learn. Removing statues does not undo injustices.”
The township went through a long public engagement process led by LURA Consulting, which gathered input from hundreds of residents through surveys, open houses, email and community tea circles.
“In many ways, this issue became larger than the path itself,” added Salonen. “The process showed us how communities wrestle with questions of history, memory and identity. As elected leaders, it’s not our role to rewrite history, but to ensure it is presented thoughtfully so we learn from it.”
The Prime Ministers Path and the new volunteer committee will regularly report to council to assess public engagement, long-term sustainability and alignment with council’s direction.
Wilmot Township now concludes a chapter that began more than a decade ago.
“The approach moving forward honours the input of residents, respects past investments and reinforces council’s role in providing clear, responsible and transparent leadership,” said a township news release.
“This has been going on for multiple years now and for council to come to a final decision after some great community engagement, it is exciting for everyone to be able to move forward,” said Salonen, adding she wasn’t certain how the vote would go but was pleasantly surprised it was unanimous.
She said its time to let the committee in charge take over.
Real understanding begins when we stop trying to clean up history and start facing it and asking … why and how.”
She added history does not repeat itself by accident.
”It repeats because we forget, we rewrite,
“Removing statues does not undo injustices, but removing the opportunity to discuss them and face them head-on does.
“The new committee that is to be formed will have the opportunity to bring forward what they envision, taking the spirit of what LURA’s work found and making this a successful opportunity for learning and reconciliation.”
Woodstock Fair
August 21st - 24th, 2025
A timeless tradition that celebrates community, creativity, and culture. This upcoming fair promises to be more exciting than ever, with a vibrant lineup of events that cater to all ages.
Visitors can look forward to enjoying a diverse array of food vendors and engaging activities that capture the spirit of Woodstock. Whether you are a returning visitor or a first-time attendee, the
The statue of Sir John A. Macdonald will be relocated to a less prominent area of the Castle Kilbride grounds as part of Wilmot Township’s decision to reinstall the Prime Ministers Path — a move council says aims to balance education, inclusion, and community feedback.
(GAZETTE FILE PHOTO)
Wilmot residents invited to provide input on new official plan
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Township of Wilmot is formulating a new official plan to guide development across its rural and urban communities.
The new plan, lasting until 2051, will replace the existing township and regional official plans and will build on Wilmot’s long-term vision for growth with a renewed focus on complete communities.
“The province, with the change in planning authority, has given direction to repeal and replace both the regional plan and township plan and implement a new official plan for each community like Wilmot,” said Andrew Martin, the township’s manager of planning and economic development. “There is no requirement to carry forward any of the policies from either of our plans. We just have to comply with the provincial policy.”
An official plan is a legally required policy document that guides land-use planning and development in a municipality or planning area. It is created under the authority of the Planning Act and must conform to provincial policies. It will include a range and mix of housing, employment opportunities, schools, recreational amenities, options for servicing, roads and active transportation while protecting natural heritage features and farmland.
Local activist Kevin Thomason told the Gazette he’s pleased to see progress being made on such an important plan.
“This is by far the most important document Wilmot will ever draft that most citizens will ever read, but it determines everything. It determines what we’ll protect, what we’ll destroy, where we’ll grow, how
we’ll grow, when we’ll grow and what we’ll grow with. It will decide if we are going to be a small town and stay an urban municipality or if we become a large urban municipality.”
He added the township has one chance to get the plan right but is worried there are fewer guardrails or precautions to do so.
“I know people like to fault proper planning but there are reasons why planning has evolved into being what it is – because there have been so many mistakes made in the past. We need to get planning right and it’s going to be more critical than ever for people to get out and get involved with this.”
Residents are invited to register for a one-on-one conversation with a member of the project team. These conversations are an opportunity for residents to share thoughts and ideas that should be considered during the development of the official plan.
While the plan will focus on the wants and needs of the township, there is still a provincial requirement to engage with the Region of Waterloo during its development on matters of regional interest.
“That includes regional roads; ultimately the region is responsible for sewage treatment and some aspects related to source-water protection. The region is just no longer the approval authority; they’ll be the accommodating agency,” added Martin.
Despite there being no official Indigenous communities nearby, he added the township is required to undertake significant engagement with the population as per the provincial mandate.
“The consulting team has an Indigenous
engagement specialist. We have connected that individual to communities we have been directed to engage by the province.”
The township has hired Nethery Planning to develop the plan. The company is a boutique land use planning firm founded by Joe Nethery, a registered professional planner with over 17 years of experience working across 30-plus municipalities in Ontario, Alberta, Nova Scotia and even New Zealand.
Interested residents can register for a 15-minute telephone call by emailing WilmotOP@wilmot.ca with a preferred phone number and timeslot. Questions for participants to consider prior to the call include:
• What are the biggest issues facing the township that should be addressed in the new official plan?
• What are the biggest opportunities to consider in the township?
• Where are examples of other rural areas, towns or villages that do a terrific job providing housing, places to work and livable communities?
Thomason said he has applied for one of the consultation calls and hopes the township ensures plenty of engagement going forward.
“If they think they can do their public
feedback in a day with 15-minute timeslots, that’s 32 people. If they think 32 out of a population of 25,000 in Wilmot is acceptable, that’s concerning. They need to make sure this is a fulsome process.”
Martin said the consulting firm has a public engagement specialist on staff who is leading the discussions with interested residents.
“We wanted to ensure there was early engagement and engagement through all stages of the project. They felt this would be a good first step. Just put it out there and see if there were people who would like to discuss it at an early stage. It’s more just gauging what people’s interests are.”
He added there isn’t anything specific to review or comment on, but the hope is to find out what priority areas residents would like to see in the plan. Martin said the goal is to have the plan in front of council in June of next year for approval.
“After that, we would require provincial approval but we are engaging the province and applicable ministries throughout the process so it’s not going to be the first time they see it.”
The phone consultations will take place on Monday, Aug. 18. For more information about the official plan project, visit www. engagewr.ca/new-wilmot-official-plan.
Refugee-support non-profit opens guest house for displaced Ukrainians in New Hamburg
Ukrainian refugees hoping to establish a life for themselves in New Hamburg and the surrounding Wilmot Township now have a temporary place to call home.
Last week, Grassroots Response to the Ukrainian Crisis, a non-profit started by Petersburg resident Steph Goertz in 2022 that has since helped more than 4,500 Ukrainians displaced by the war with Russia find homes – and lives – in Canada, announced it has opened a new Ukrainian Guest House at 225 Huron St. in New Hamburg. Formerly owned by the Baechler family and having played a role in welcoming Mennonite refugees from in and around Ukraine, the home is currently owned by Greg and Marie Voisin and is providing temporary housing for Ukrainians as they seek to establish a new life in Wilmot.
“As an organization, we’re not providing long-term housing,” Goertz said. “We’ve had a huge success rate of helping families to get employed, to get on their feet. Because we work with so many volunteers, we connect these families with many people in the community so they feel integrated, they feel that they have the community around them to help them.
“We provide them with the housing, we connect them with as many volunteers as possible and then the goal is to get them employed. Once they’re employed and they feel they can rent on their own, they have the social connections they need to feel integrated. … They have the people in the community that can offer them assistance.”
With houses like the one in New Hamburg already established in communities across the province, including in Kitchener, Cambridge, Guelph and even as far north as Thunder Bay, Grassroots Response helps Ukrainians find and establish lives in places where they can feel comfortable and part of that community.
like Hamilton or Toronto. Right now, my education is in graphic design but I am an artist, I have a lot of paintings and I paint acrylic.”
While the Grassroots volunteers in New Hamburg have helped Makarova secure part-time work at Pet Valu in town, she is especially excited about being part of the upcoming New Hamburg Art Tour Sept. 20 and 21. During the eighth annual event, Makarova will join other local artists in displaying and selling her work at the New Hamburg Community Centre.
Other Ukrainians living locally, like Oksana Arkadia and daughter Viktoriia Van Faassen, are also being assisted by the local Grassroots volunteers. Both women are highly educated – Arkadia was a micro-biology professor for 30 years and Van Fassen has a master’s degree in landscaping – but they speak very little English.
While both women have worked hard to have their education, credentials and experience officially recognized by employers in Canada, Goertz said the key to finding them work in their fields is connecting them with local volunteers who can use their networks of family, friends and acquaintances to find employers who see their value despite their lack of English language skills.
For Ukrainian graphic designer and painter Viktoriia Makarova and her mother, Olha Polusmiak, a smaller community like New Hamburg, where they have been living in the Grassroots Guest House since the beginning of July, turned out to be exactly the right fit.
After being displaced from their home city of Kherson, Ukraine, at the beginning of the war in 2022, the little family has moved from a refugee camp in Germany to Brampton in Canada and to the Grassroots Guest House in Cambridge before finally settling in New Hamburg. Along the way, Makarova’s grandmother, who had left
Ukraine with her family, passed away in Germany. During the journey however, Makarova, who was pregnant when she left Germany, gave birth to a daughter.
While their journey has been long and fraught with difficulties like so many of the journeys for Ukrainians seeking new lives in Canada, Makarova says she and her mother have fallen in love with their new community and they have high hopes they’ll be able to stay and establish a life in New Hamburg.
“It’s not like a big town, it’s just small,” Makarova said. “You go around in one day and you know this town. We sit here on our balcony and somebody who lives in New Hamburg goes around and says, ‘We support Ukraine and we are together and you are strong.’
“ … (Kherson) is like a big city. It’s like Waterloo-Kitchener, but we have towns like New Hamburg (in Ukraine), and actually it’s good. Sometimes for my business or my art show, I need to go to a big city
To help Grassroots Response continue to support Ukrainians in need both in navigating the immigration process on the ground in Europe and in providing them housing and the necessities of life while establishing those all-important community connections here in Canada, Goertz said the organization is absolutely dependent on donations.
“We don’t have a huge budget. If all of the 15 families we’ve been talking with suddenly need housing, we don’t have enough,” Goertz said. “So, we then will spend what money we have to rent a new place in order to ensure they have a safe place to live, and then there’s the cost of making repairs or providing the things they need to live in that house.”
For more information about Grassroots Response to the Ukrainian Crisis and to donate, visit www.wrgrassrootsresponse. ca. The organization partners with newcomer resettlement and multicultural organizations in every community it has a house in. Thanks to its partnership with the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre, it can provide charitable tax receipts to those who donate to the cause.
Ukrainian newcomers Olha Polusmiak, Viktoriia Makarova and Grassroots Response to the Ukrainian Crisis founder and president Steph Goertz stand in front of the New Grassroots Ukrainian Guest House at 225 Huron St. in New Hamburg. Makarova is holding one of her paintings, which she will be displaying and selling as part of the eighth annual New Hamburg Art Show.
( GALEN SIMMONS PHOTO)
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Wilmot Township hires new CAO
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Township of Wilmot has hired a new chief administrative officer (CAO).
After a unanimous vote by council, Jeff Willmer has been appointed and will begin his role on Aug. 11.
“His contract will run through February 2027, providing experienced and stable leadership as Wilmot navigates a critical period of transformation,” a township press release states. “Willmer is coming out of retirement to take on the role, answering the call to public service once more to help guide Wilmot through current fiscal and organizational challenges. His decision reflects both his strong commitment to local government and council’s confidence in his proven leadership.”
“Council was unanimous in its support of Jeff Willmer’s appointment,” said Mayor Natasha Salonen. “His seasoned leadership, deep regional knowledge and track record of organizational improvement make him the right person to steer Wilmot forward. We’re grateful that he’s chosen to return to municipal service in this pivotal moment.”
Salonen is looking forward to a solid
working relationship with her new CAO.
“It’s critical in any organization that the top two roles are able to effectively work together and have the same direction as to where the company is going, both private sector and public. In this case, it is key to have the right staff in place to ensure the best for the organization.”
Municipal CAO’s are responsible for day-to-day operations, but Salonen said Willmer play an equally important role in connecting the work of township staff with the politicians who make the decisions.
“They are the link between the organization, which is the bureaucracy, and politicians who are the decision and policy makers. Having the right person in place is critical to ensure council decisions are acted upon in a timely manner to meet the expectations of council but also work the way council intended them to.”
A longtime resident of Waterloo Region, Willmer brings over three decades of municipal experience. He started his career in Woolwich Township and then served the City of Kitchener in various capacities, including as director of planning and CAO until his retirement in 2017. Since then, he has continued to serve the community as a co-founder and chair of A Better Tent City,
a grassroots housing initiative for vulnerable populations.
Salonen said Willmer’s experience was a key factor in hiring him.
“The vast knowledge and experience he brings and the fact he is in the region and understands our regional context is really critical to being successful in this role.”
“Wilmot is poised to move forward in exciting ways, and I look forward to being part of that transformation,” said Willmer.
The Gazette asked Salonen if Wilmot is moving forward in the right direction with the hiring of a new CAO and longtime controversial items like the Prime Minister’s Path coming to a resolution.
“A lot of the foundational work has been done in the background for a year and a half or longer. Now we are starting to see the fruits of the labour and getting the right people in the right positions. Wilmot is in the middle of an organizational transformation, but as a community, we are transforming as we grow and change from the Wilmot of yesterday. I think we have the momentum to ensure we don’t get lost in time but rather build the community that we as residents want to see.”
Jeff Willmer has decided to come out of retirement to be the next CAO of Wilmot Township. Willmer’s first day on the job is Aug. 11.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
WRPS chief commits to re-establishing a community policing space in Wilmot Township
GALEN SIMMONS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Ever since the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) ceased operating out of the former New Hamburg police station building in 2019, subsequently selling off the building altogether, area residents have wondered whether the police service would re-establish a police station in Wilmot.
During a presentation by WRPS Chief Mark Crowell on the township’s 2024 crime and police statistics at Wilmot council’s July 28 meeting, Crowell told council the service is indeed committed to establishing a satellite office in the township as they seek a permanent location for a rural police station.
“We are actively seeking to reinstate the community space within Wilmot Township that once was reflected in our New Hamburg police station,” Crowell said while discussing WRPS’ rural policing strategy for Wilmot and the other townships that make up Waterloo Region. “That is our commitment to ensure we have a foothold, a place where residents can come, meet and give input as to their concerns and our policing practices across the region.
“We hope to have that solidified within 2025 and that would replicate community offices that we have in our (other) rural townships.”
Similar to the WRPS satellite office established more than a year ago at the new Bill Gies Recreation Centre in Wellesley as well as the satellite office in North Dumfries, Crowell said the police service is looking to replicate those community spaces in Wilmot and Woolwich.
“In North Dumfries and Wellesley, we have offices located in community centres,” Crowell said in response to a request for clarification from Coun. Lilliane Dunstall. “So, our commitment this year is to work with Wilmot and Woolwich as well to re-establish what that would look like in this capacity.
“We recognize that, at one point in our capital planning, we were going to build a rural policing station. We still haven’t found that magical place that meets the vast expanse of our rural communities. So, as we continue to work and build towards that – because I think it is inevitable that we’ll need to create one or two rural policing stations that are fixed brick-and-mortar establishments – we want to ensure that there’s equitable access. Our commitment this year is to identify it and, depending on the location of that community space, we want to turn it around and get in there as quickly as possible.”
Like spaces in Wellesley and North Dumfries, Crowell told council WRPS would likely lease the space from Wilmot Township.
WRPS’ rural policing strategy, as described by Crowell at the Wilmot council meeting and during presentations to other councils in the region, is focused around three pillars: community engagement, crime suppression and road safety. The strategy is being led on the ground by rural community patrol Sgt. Jay Hiuser, who began leading policing in the region’s rural communities back in January.
Crowell told council the WRPS has adopted a first-in-Canada stratified policing and crime suppression model aimed at reducing crime and improving accountability. Crowell explained it is an evidence-based model that focuses on addressing high-crime areas, repeat offenders and serious crimes with tailored solutions that could involve many different policing divisions and units within the WRPS organization.
In reviewing last year’s crime and policing statistics, Crowell told councillors police responded to 5,457 calls for service in Wilmot Township. In total, WRPS officers responded to 346,014 calls for service in 2024.
“By and large, this is a very safe community despite the growth, despite the busyness of all that Wilmot Township provides and does,” Crowell said. “This is maintained to be a very safe community in many ways, but not immune
to growth pressures, crime pressures that we see in this region and beyond.”
2024 WRPS crime statistics for Wilmot and Waterloo region
• Total calls for service in Waterloo region: 346,014
• Calls for service in Wilmot Township: 5,457 (down one per cent from 2023)
• Of those calls in Wilmot:
◦ 16 per cent resulted in vehicle stops
◦ Nine per cent resulted in a selective traffic-enforcement program
◦ Eight per cent resulted in proactive initiatives
◦ 675 speeding charges were laid (an increase by three per cent over 2023)
◦ 395 other Highway Traffic Act charges were laid
◦ 19 impaired-driving charges were laid (down 10 per cent from 2023)
◦ 10 seatbelt charges were laid (double last year’s charges)
◦ Eight dangerous-driving charges were laid (down 20 per cent from 2023)
◦ Five distracted-driving charges was laid (up 67 per cent from 2023)
• Across the region, WRPS responded to:
◦ 22 shootings (an increase by 22 per cent from 2023)
◦ 97 violent firearm offences (a 17 per-cent decrease)
◦ 20 car jackings (double last year’s number)
◦ Five homicides (no change)
◦ 1,193 stolen vehicles
◦ 163 organized crime vehicle thefts
◦ 53 attempted organized crime vehicle thefts
◦ 156 robberies of a person
◦ Nine jewelry store robberies
◦ Six pharmacy robberies
Plenty of new fun and excitement at this year’s Tavistock Fall Fair
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
This year’s edition of the annual Tavistock Fall Fair, running the weekend after Labour Day from Sept. 5-7, promises to entertain all ages with several new attractions and events scheduled, along with many old favourites.
Kim Urlando is president of the Tavistock Fall Fair and explained one of the highlights is the addition of Kiddie’s Fun Trak, a move made after receiving feedback from fairgoers.
“We have a new midway company coming in. We have been listening to what our supporters have told us. We are hearing them. We are bringing in a few rides from this company, which is linked on our website. The rides along with inflatables from Grand River Inflatables will give the kids plenty to enjoy,” Urlando said.
Cambridge based Kiddie Fun Track bills itself as a trusted party and entertainment
rental company in Ontario for over three decades.
“We are very proud of the fun and reliable entertainment services Kiddies Fun Trak has provided to our valued customers across Ontario over the past 32 years. We look forward to creating many more memorable events for families, schools and communities,” its website states.
Urlando said while the committee is excited about the new children’s attractions, they represent an increase in the event’s budget.
“We are hoping for some increased local and community support to help offset the expenditure,” she said.
Advance purchases of bracelets and weekend passes will be available soon on the fair’s website, something also new this year.
Other new attractions include Milk Master Chef which will highlight recipes with dairy ingredients, Cow Patty
Bingo and the Premier Pedal Tractor and Pull. Another exciting new event is the NorthFIRE Circus.
“NorthFIRE Circus is a unique group of individual fire performers from around Ontario. Our fire performers are available for extraordinary corporate shows, astonishing wedding or exceptional party entertainment. If you are looking for a high-energy event, our choreographed fire acts will impress! Let us turn sparks into magic before your very eyes,” the group’s website states.
As always, the fair committee needs new volunteers to take some of the load off the current stock. Urlando said any help would be appreciated and put to good use.
“I can’t stress enough how important it is to the integrity and staying power of an organization like ours. We rely on volunteers completely and it falls on the old saying that many hands make light work. It’s only as big of a job as someone wants to
take on,” said Urlando. “If someone wants to help with the setup or as part of one of the organizing committees, that’s great. Everyone is welcome.”
She added volunteering at the fair is also a great way for high school students to accrue volunteer hours needed to graduate.
This year’s theme is “Seed to Harvest,” a tribute to the deep agricultural ties to the Tavistock and area community.
Among the returning events is the very popular Tavistock Fall Fair Ambassador competition on Friday evening at the Memorial Hall, a parade Saturday morning, the Heavy Horse Show and Lawn Tractor Races.
More information, including how to register exhibits, is available on the website at tavistockfallfair.com. Updates on the event can be found on the Tavistock Fall Fair Facebook page. Remember, the Tavistock Fall Fair is set for the weekend after Labour Day this year.
Three young women vie for Wellesley Fall Fair Ambassador title
Three exceptional young women will compete for the title of Wellesley Fall Fair Ambassador at this year’s Wellesley Fall Fair in August, each bringing a unique blend of passion, leadership and community spirit to the competition.
Claire Koch
Claire Koch lives on her family’s dairy farm, which is also home to a few goats and sheep. Passionate about agriculture, she graduated this year with a certification and scholarship related to the agricultural field. In September, she will attend Ridgetown College to pursue a career as a veterinary technician for both large and small animals.
Koch says the fair ambassador program has always been in the back of her mind, partly inspired by her aunt’s past involvement in the program and her grandmother’s longstanding participation in the fair.
“I love the idea of the program and think it’s important for the community to have younger generations passionate about the fair and agriculture,” she said.
Actively involved in her community through work and volunteering, Koch has already logged over 100 hours of community service. At school, she co-founded a Christian club called S.P.A.R.K. at Waterloo-Oxford District Secondary School, which now has more than 40 members.
“We do devotions, prayer, snacks and games every Friday,” she said, adding the experience has significantly boosted her public speaking skills and confidence. Koch is sponsored by Leis Feed and
Supply and The Town Barker. Abigail Purdie
Abigail Purdie is passionate about meaningful engagement in her community, whether through volunteering or, now, through the Wellesley Fair Ambassador program. She sees community involvement as a way to give back and also grow by learning from others.
As a member of Team Canada’s female boxing program, Purdie has represented her country in Sweden, Germany and the United States.
“Boxing has given me resilience, discipline and confidence,” she said, qualities that have helped shape her leadership style and her ability to relate to people of all backgrounds.
Purdie has contributed to the Wellesley community in many ways, including helping with local youth dances, assisting at the Don Green Memorial Baseball Tournament and volunteering at the ABC
Festival, where she handled food service and money.
Her future goals include pursuing a teaching career in early childhood education.
“I want to provide students with someone they can trust, which is something that’s often overlooked,” she said.
Purdie is sponsored by Jodi Purdie Real Estate.
Laine Young
Laine Young says she entered the Wellesley Fair Ambassador competition as a way to grow as a leader while giving back to a community that means a great deal to her.
“I’m excited about the possibility of bringing my experiences to a tradition that celebrates agriculture, community and local pride within Wellesley Township,” she said.
Young is currently completing a co-op term with JAAR Excavating as a project
coordinator, gaining hands-on experience in civil construction. At the University of Guelph, she’s an active volunteer, helping lead a mentorship program for over 150 female students through the Women in Science and Engineering club. She also volunteers with the Rotary Club of Guelph and coached cross-country during her high school years.
She is passionate about encouraging more women to pursue careers in STEM, especially in construction. Her long-term goals include finishing her degree in water resources engineering with a business minor, growing into a project management role, and helping improve local infrastructure to keep her community safe, connected and thriving.
Young hopes the fair ambassador program will help her continue developing leadership, communication and community-building skills that will benefit her well into the future.
Claire Koch
Abigail Purdie
Laine Young
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Oxford MP launches national consultation on bail reform
The Conservative member of parliament for Oxford is launching a nationwide consultation to gather feedback from Canadians on urgent reforms needed for Canada’s bail system and broader criminal justice laws.
Arpan Khanna is engaging frontline police officers, Crown prosecutors, judges, social workers, victims’ advocacy groups, all levels of government and members of the private sector. The goal is to gather insight and shape a private member’s bill (PMB) aimed at strengthening public safety and rebalancing a criminal justice system that has in his view, under the Liberal government, tipped in favour of repeat offenders.
“Canadians are becoming afraid to walk in their neighbourhoods,” said Khanna. “Every day, we hear of another violent crime committed by someone who was already out on bail. Enough is enough; Canadians deserve better. They deserve safe communities.”
At the beginning of each new session of parliament, all MPs who are not ministers or parliamentary secretaries are put in a draw to earn the right to bring a bill forward at the next sitting.
There is a wide consensus across the county that we need some sort of bail reform.”
Khanna pointed to recently released Statistics Canada data that shows violent crime has risen nearly 55 per cent since 2015, gun crime is up 130 per cent and a 76 per cent increase in sexual assaults.
“Canadians are becoming afraid to walk in their neighbourhoods. Every day, we hear of another violent crime committed by someone who was already out on bail. Enough is enough. Canadians deserve better. They deserve safe communities.”
The Oxford MP admits the Liberals and new Prime Minister Mark Carney have talked about getting harder on crime and bail reform but he says so far, it has amounted to nothing.
“The solutions they bring to this are more ideological or fluff that don’t actually work. They brought in C-75 and C-5 which have made the problem worse. When a judge is granting bail, it has to be the least restrictive possible. I am putting together about 10 different solutions based on what Canadians are telling me.”
“I was lucky number 13 meaning in September during the first week back, I have to present something and chances are it will be discussed during this session. It’s entirely up to me what I want to bring forward.”
He added working on a bail-reform bill was an easy decision based on what he has been hearing from local residents and people across the country.
“We’ve done surveys, consultations, meetings with folks here in Oxford County and I travel across Canada in my national role. Bail reform and crime in general has been a topic in every single meeting. People here don’t feel safe going to the bank anymore and there are security guards.”
Khanna serves as the party’s national outreach coordinator and is responsible for shaping the party’s national outreach strategy, coordinating engagement with diverse communities and supporting grassroots organization efforts across the country. He added Woodstock police have told him they are constantly arresting the same people over and over again and pointed to several recent tragic crimes.
“We had a 71-year-old getting groceries (in Toronto) stabbed by a 14-year-old. We have had broad-daylight shootings across the country. There was a gun fired at a home in Woodstock last fall. Mayors and premiers have been calling for this, victim advocacy groups are talking about it.
He added the Liberals are more than welcome to steal his ideas and pass their own bill to create a safer country. Khanna explained the daughter of a Woodstock police officer sent him an Instagram message after the recent TD bank robbery in the city.
“She said her dad was one of the officers who responded and it was a repeat offender out on bail multiple times. She said she fears for her father’s safety.”
Khanna said the country needs a criminal justice system that puts the safety of Canadians first.
“That’s why I’m going to every corner of this country to hear what needs to change so Conservatives can bring forward solutions that make our communities safer.”
Khanna’s office is inviting everyone in Oxford to contribute directly to the consultation. Feedback can be sent to arpan. khanna@parl.gc.ca with the subject line, “Bail Reform,” or return the mailer arriving in mailboxes soon.
Oxford MP Arpan Khanna is launching a national consultation on bail reform and public safety, aiming to craft a private member’s bill that addresses concerns over repeat offenders and rising violent crime across Canada.
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Perth County dairymen reel in a great catch on Lake Ontario
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
Perth County has long been known for its excellent dairymen, but it turns out the region is also home to some pretty good fishermen.
Nine Perth County residents – all with roots in dairy farming – took to the waters of Lake Ontario last week for their annual fishing trip. The group included four men from the Listowel area, three from north of St. Marys, a veterinarian from Sebringville and a farmer from near Shakespeare.
All nine spent the day far out on the lake reeling in a plentiful haul of Chinook salmon and rainbow trout – more than enough to stock several future seafood dinners.
For over 35 years, these friends and fellow farmers have come together every July or August to take a break from barn chores, share some laughs and enjoy a day of relaxation and camaraderie on the open water.
“It’s a chance to get away, catch up and talk about what’s going on in the world –and maybe reel in the big one,” said one member of the crew.
The outing was originally organized by Listowel area dairyman Dave Wideman and St. Marys area Holstein master breeder Glen Standeaven. These days, their sons have joined the tradition, ensuring the next generation keeps the annual trip alive.
The group launches out of Port Credit aboard a large charter boat captained by an
St. Marys area dairyman David Standeaven landed the biggest Chinook salmon of the day – a whopping 20 pounds. A first-timer on the trip, he was proud of the experience.
experienced guide who sets the lures and lines using multiple downriggers. When a rod starts bouncing, one of the crew springs into action to bring in the catch.
Most years, everyone heads home with one or two fish – cleaned and filleted before they leave the dock.
This year’s weather was perfect; clear blue skies, calm water and a “Great Lake” to catch a beautiful fish.
A L L E Y S O F B E C K S T P L 6 3 3 W I L M O T ; W I L M O T B A D E N , O N
A p p r a i s e d V a l u e : $ 1 8 0 , 0 0 0 0 0
Z o n i n g : Z o n e 3 ( R e s i d e n t i a l )
T e n d e r p a c k a g e s a v a i l a b l e o n l i n e a t w w w
Perth County fishermen take a break from the barn to enjoy a day on the water. Front, from left: David Wideman and Gary West. Back, from left: boat captain Rob McIntosh, Greg Wideman, Paul Erwin, John McIntosh, Scott Dolson, Dave Standeaven and Steve Dolson.
Steve Dolson of Legacy Holsteins near Listowel holds up his first catch of the morning – a nice rainbow trout. His son, Scott, was also part of this year’s crew.
Listowel’s Paul Erwin, a longtime member of the group, shows off an early morning catch with a smile.
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
IN MEMORIAM
CARD OF THANKS 178th Decoration Service
Trinity Anglican Church
In memory of Larry Pletsch
March 22,1945-July 31, 2023
You were a Dad so special And loved so very much, You brought such happiness To the many hearts you touched.
You were always kind and caring And so understanding too, If help was ever needed It so freely came from you.
You were a gift to all the world And brought joy to everyone, That’s why life hasn’t been the same These two years you’ve been gone.
Two years too long
Yvonne, Sherri-Lynn, Gary, Jason, Cherise, Parry and families
Thank You
We are truly overwhelmed and deeply grateful for the love, kindness, and support that each of you has shown us. From the warm hugs to the thoughtful cards, well wishes, and generous gifts, your gestures have made our hearts swell with gratitude.
We want to give a special thank you for the “surprise open house”—it was an incredible blessing to have all of you come together in celebration. We are humbled by the love that surrounds us, and each of you made that day even more special.
To our dear customers, neighbours, church family, extended family, and of course, our immediate family, including our beloved children, their spouses, and grandchildren—thank you for being such a vital part of our lives. We feel incredibly blessed that God has placed each of you in our path, and your presence in our lives brings us immeasurable joy.
Every single person who attended or sent their love from afar is appreciated beyond words. You are cherished beyond measure, and we carry your kindness in our hearts. It is a blessing to be surrounded by so many who care.
August 10, 2025 2:00 p.m.
Rector: Rev'd K. Loynd Everyone Welcome! Hwy 59 between Hickson and Tavistock
Celebrating something special? Share it with your community! Contact us for more information
With all our love and deepest gratitude, Bill & Linda Ferguson
1. What instrument does Lizzo famously play? 2. What is the tallest mammal on Earth?
3. In which country is it illegal to step on money with the King’s face on it?
4. How many squares make up a game of snakes and ladders?
5. Who was the Prime Minister of Canada during WW1?
6. What social media platform introduced “Threads” in 2024?
7. What is the first rule of Fight Club?
8. The process of splitting an atom in two is called what?
9. Who shot the United Healthcare CEO in late 2024?
10. What is the most common type of genetic disorder?
found on the classified page
W. Franklin Funeral Director
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 29 - August 5, 2015, Edition (10 years ago)
If you’re looking for a home that’s centrally located between Stratford, Woodstock, London and Kitchener-Waterloo, consider buying in Tavistock. “You get better homes for less … and bigger lots,” says Brian Wilhelm, a 31-year veteran of the real estate market in the area. He and son, Kyle, are currently wrapping up sales of the first phase of 21 lots in “The Ponds” subdivision in Tavistock with the second phase of 21 lots scheduled to be available by this September.
The Tavistock Juniors have qualified for the Canadian National Softball Championship in Napanee Aug. 10-16. They finished third at the Ontario Amateur Softball Association Provincial A Championships. Their first game was against Oshawa. Trailing 5-3 in the top of the seventh, Tavistock sent 11 batters to the plate scoring seven runs. Oshawa scored four in the bottom, but could not get the tie. Travis Gerber got the 10-9 win for the Juniors. The next game was against Stratford where Tavistock had a 4-2 loss. Dylan Taylor got the start for the third game against Chatsworth. He threw a one-hitter with the only hit a home run in the 4-1 win. Against the Napanee express, Taylor got the start again throwing another one-hitter in the 7-0 win. The win put Tavistock into the silver medal game against the Napanee Express where they lost 8-5. Tavistock Juniors include Paul Hyde, Brady Wagler, Brett Kropf, Alex Vondervoort, Jesse Deweerd, Tristan Hohl, Tyson Zehr, Derek Wagler, Liam Laforest, Kevin Zehr, Travis Ramseyer, Travis Gerber, Zach Stevenson, Carson Lamond, Deven Kropf, Bryn Wagler, Travis Hyde, Chad Harmer, Dylan Taylor and Quinten Bryce.
Aug. 27-30, 2015. The Tavistock Novice Girls include Kirsten Stolk, Morgan Stock, Hannah Wagler, Emma Brown, Leah Bauman, Megan Bailey, Rachel Habermehl, Bri Smith, Alyssa Forthuber, Karli Ramseyer, Sarah Bailey, Mihret Eliasziw, Kam Lamond, Madi Oliver and Paige Schneider.
July 31 - August 7, 1985, Edition (40 years ago)
Excavation started Friday, Aug. 2 on the construction of a new bridge on the 10th Line, Concession 35, of East Zorra Township. Michael Maloney Construction of Stratford, general contractor for the work, removed the old concrete and steel structure and then diverted the stream to begin digging for the 30-foot concrete bridge. East Zorra-Tavistock council has obtained a $47,500 subsidy from the Ontario government for the nine-metre culvert.
The Seniors played their best game of the year by beating Kinkora Seniors 2-1 on July 11. It was a complete team effort with excellent passing which kept complete control of the ball over three quarters of the game. Kinkora put the pressure on towards the end of the game only because they had several substitutes and the Tavistock team only had 11 players. Tracey Van Dijk scored early in the game with a low shot in the corner which the excellent Kinkora goalie was unable to move on. Later, Jeff Murray gave a high shot from centre over the goalie’s head into the net.
July 23 - 30, 1975, Edition (50 years ago)
East Zorra-Tavistock council last Wednesday bowed to the wage demands of its three fire department chiefs, but not until all three threatened to resign, two of them on the spot. A five-man delegation from volunteer departments in Hickson, Tavistock and Innerkip told the council they were not satisfied with salaries the council had offered to the chiefs in May and asked if the council would reconsider. Township Mayor Harold Vogt refused, however, to allow the matter to be
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
Heather Browning set to share her love of Beatrix Potter at Brocksden
sharing her knowledge and love of Potter with others.
Presenter Heather Browning will be at the Brocksden Country School Museum on Saturday, Aug. 9 to share her love of children’s books, especially the beloved tales by Beatrix Potter.
Browning has always loved children’s literature, and Potter’s stories are her favourites. In 2010, she discovered a website about Potter and joined the Beatrix Potter Society. Since then, she has taken part in events in England, Toronto and San Diego to learn more about the author and her work.
Before retiring in 2016, Heather spent 34 years teaching Kindergarten and primary students. Now she enjoys spending time
Potter, born in 1866, was a famous English author, artist and nature lover. Her most famous book is The Tale of Peter Rabbit, published in 1902. She wrote and illustrated over 60 books, many about animals living in the countryside. Her beautiful drawings, fun stories and love for nature have made her books timeless classics for children around the world.
Browning will be reading Potter’s stories and sharing more about the author’s life during two sessions, the first one at 10:30 a.m. and another at 2:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome!
Brocksden Country School Museum is located at 2719 Perth Line 37 (Vivian Line).
On the left is author Beatrix Potter at her farm, Hill Top, in 1907. On the right is Potter fan and presenter Heather Browning at the same location in 2016. Browning will be at the Brocksden Country School Museum on Saturday, Aug. 9 to share her love of Potter’s books.
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Sheep farming on the rise in South Easthope
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
Perth County may be best known for its strong dairy and hog industries, with beef farmers also enjoying growing demand, but another protein is quietly gaining ground – lamb.
Jim, Jen and Mike Sebben are continuing the family farming tradition east of Stratford in South Easthope Township where their flock of sheep graze the pastures on a perfect July day. In addition to raising sheep, the family is also broiler chicken producers.
The Sebbens have deep agricultural roots in Perth County, with multiple generations having farmed throughout the townships surrounding Stratford. As Ontario’s population grows and urban sprawl consumes more farmland, farming families like the Sebbens will play a vital role in local food production.
In a recent interview, farm manager Jim Sebben shared that their flock currently sits at 340-350 ewes, with plans to increase to 400. They also keep eight to 12 rams for breeding.
The farm’s flock is primarily made up of Dorset-Rideau-Arcott crosses, with additional lambs produced from Suffolk
ewes. Sebben says the goal is to maintain a schedule of three lambings every two years, averaging two to three lambs per birth.
“If the ewes don’t produce good, healthy lambs, they’re culled out,” he said.
Sebben sells most of his animals through the Ontario Livestock Exchange (OLEX) at the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, and he’s pleased with the recent increase in lamb prices.
“The market’s been strong the last couple of years,” he said.
The sheep are sheared every eight months, ideally just before lambing. However, the wool is no longer a source of income.
“The price for wool is terrible,” Sebben said. “Nobody wants it – I just take it to the dump.”
That shift is surprising, considering wool’s historical value. But like many natural materials, it has lost ground to cheaper synthetics over the decades.
With lamb and chicken prices continuing to climb at both grocery stores and farmers’ markets, the Sebben family farm stands ready to meet demand with high-quality, locally raised products today and well into the future.
Gazette Puzzles
THAT’S NUTS
SHADOW
Shadow is a big girl with an even bigger heart, ready to find her furever home! She’s snuggly, playful, and full of purr-sonality. Whether it’s curling up in your lap or chasing a favorite toy, Shadow knows how to make every moment special. If you think Shadow is the perfect fit for your family, apply today and give this sweet girl the loving home she deserves! Visit kwsphumane. ca to learn more!
Sponsored by:
The Sebben family’s flock of 360 sheep graze peacefully on pasture east of Stratford, illustrating Perth County’s scenic landscape and its growing role in quality sheep and lamb production.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
OEHL adds more teams, announces two divisions
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
It has been a busy offseason for the Ontario Elite Hockey League (OEHL).
The league has just announced an additional round of expansion ahead of the 2025-2026 season after member clubs and the Ontario Hockey Association (OHA) approved expansion applications for the Petrolia Squires and Delhi Flames.
Petrolia has a long, storied history dating back more than 50 years, including Allan Cup championships in 1979 and 1981. Delhi is an established franchise, entering its fourth season, and represents the first OEHL club based out of Norfolk County.
“The addition of two more established clubs based in southwestern Ontario is tremendously exciting,” said commissioner Rick Richardson. “We continue to see the appeal of the OEHL’s vision of strong, sustainable, small-town hockey.”
This continues an offseason of growth for the OEHL, expanding by seven teams for a total of 18 teams competing in 2025-2026.
OEHL clubs will split into north and south divisions for the 2025-2026 season, with each team playing a 20-game regular season within their respective divisions. The 2026 playoff format will be finalized prior to the start of the regular season.
Tavistock Royals president Kyle Wynette explained the off-season expansion of the league is something that has been in the works since the spring.
“After hearing rumours that the Western Ontario Super Hockey League might be disbanding, we formed an expansion committee that was led by our commissioner, Rick Richardson, and myself. Many of our GMs took an active role in reaching out to these teams to see what barriers or concerns they might have in joining our league and ultimately the OHA, OHF and
Hockey Canada.”
Wynette said he and others involved recognized the OEHL was under-represented in the more southern parts of Ontario and began the process of reaching out to the clubs that fit the model, specifically those with populations under 25,000 people.
“As always, the OEHL’s goal is to maintain high-level senior hockey in smaller, rural centres across Ontario. ‘Big Time Talent, Small Town Hockey’ remains our motto.”
The OEHL announced the Dunnville Aeros and Elmvale Harvesters were joining the league earlier this month. Dunnville is an established franchise with strong community roots and represents the OEHL’s first team based in Haldimand County.
Elmvale will play its inaugural season in 2025-2026 out of the Elmvale Community Arena. The Harvesters name pays tribute to Elmvale’s hockey and farming tradition. It carries on the name of an intermediate team that played in Elmvale in the 1950s and ‘60s.
“The growth of the OEHL in just two seasons is a testament to the league’s
vision of sustainable, competitive, smalltown hockey,” said Richardson. “The future of senior hockey in Ontario has never been brighter.”
The league previously approved the Elora Rocks, Shelburne Muskies and Tillsonburg Thunder.
The South Division will be made up of the Delhi Flames, Dunnville Aeros, Elora Rocks, Erin Outlaws, Milverton 4-Wheel Drives, Petrolia Squires, Seaforth Centenaires, Tavistock Royals and Tillsonburg Thunder.
The North Division is comprised of the Creemore Coyotes, Durham Thundercats, Elmvale Harvesters, Georgian Bay Applekings, Lucknow Lancers, Minto 81’s, Ripley Wolves, Saugeen Shores Winterhawks and Shelburne Muskies.
Wynette said the Royals are thrilled with the new divisional setup which includes teams playing others they have never faced before.
“The biggest advantage is the reduced travel for our teams. Aside from the drive from a few outliers, many of our teams will enjoy much shorter drives for their
weekend games. This also makes things a lot easier for fans to attend our out-of-town games. I suppose one major disadvantage is the unfamiliarity with opponents, but that also makes for exciting hockey, which I hope our fans will enjoy.”
One of the fiercest rivalries in the history of the former WOAA hockey league involved the Royals and the Thunder who participated in a memorable end-of-game brawl over a decade ago. Wynette said both sides are excited.
“This is one thing that is on both teams’ radars. We’re actively in the process of trying to schedule some home and home exhibition and bring back the Oxford Cup.”
The OEHL is looking to add even more teams in the future, particularly in the south to further reduce travel and perhaps establish a north central and south conference.
“I think, ultimately, we’d love to see eastern Ontario represented within the OHA and Hockey Canada. Having a loop out there leads to opportunities to some fun things with a Memorial Cup style tournament after league champions are declared,” said Wynette, adding work continues behind the scenes to prepare the Royals for the upcoming season.
“We’ve had a lot of interest from some talented hockey players hoping to join us on the ice this fall, and we’re thrilled that we have a strong group of returning players. I’m confident fans are going to enjoy this year’s brand of Royals hockey, with many familiar faces as well as the talented additions we’ve recruited over the offseason.”
He doesn’t expect much change in the team’s coaching staff but welcomes any coach or volunteer who thinks they could help the team.
“We encourage you to reach out to us at taviroyals@gmail.com and tell us why you have what it takes to be a Royal!” Wynette said.
Logos of all 18 OEHL teams set to hit the ice in 2025-2026, as the league continues its rapid expansion and commitment to small-town, high-level senior hockey across Ontario.
(OEHL WEBSITE IMAGE)
U-9 year-end ball tournament brings energy and excitement to Shakespeare ball park
The Shakespeare ball park was buzzing with energy on the weekend as more than 100 U-9 ball players, along with their coaches, parents, grandparents, friends and neighbours, came together for a hot but excellent weekend of friendly baseball competition.
The U-9 year-end tournament kicked off Friday afternoon and continued into
the evening, then picked up again early Saturday morning at 8:30 a.m., running throughout the day. Each team was guaranteed at least four games regardless of wins or losses, providing plenty of opportunities for young players to gain valuable experience.
Nine teams from across the region took part in the tournament, including squads from Tavistock, Shakespeare, Elmira, Milverton, Seaforth, Sebringville (two
teams) and Elma (two teams). While the tournament marked the official end of the season, many coaches plan to schedule exhibition games for their teams through the rest of the summer as time allows.
No one works harder during weekends like this than Kristene Ankenmann, food booth manager and mother of four.
The past president of the Shakespeare Community Athletic Association (SCAA), Ankenmann spent Friday and Saturday
keeping hungry visitors fed with hot dogs, burgers, fries and cold drinks while pulling countless freezies from the freezer for those looking to beat the 30-degree heat.
“I really appreciate all the other Shakespeare volunteers who help out,” she said.
Her husband, Greg, added with a smile, “I only get to see her if and when I help out at the food booth – almost every night during ball and soccer season.”
Lifelong umpire Al Fuhr was hard at work under the blazing sun Friday and Saturday calling balls, strikes and outs at the Shakespeare ball park for the U-9 year-end tournament. Fuhr, 69, has been umpiring faithfully for 55 years, having officiated his first official game in 1970. He says he’s worked nearly every small-town ball park in southwestern Ontario and played or coached in most of them as well.
U-9 players from Sebringville and Seaforth square off in one of the many games held during the two-day tournament, which made use of both Shakespeare Community Athletic Association ball diamonds.
The Shakespeare U-9 Falcons hosted this year’s tournament, wrapping up a strong season with a 12-3-1 record. Pictured in the front row, from left, are Logan Trussler, Weston Kelterborn, Wyatt Laidman, Hunter Jackson, Sawyer Lange, Elliott Cook, Jake Wieler, Jackson Dreher, Ethan Trussler and Carter Kuchma. In the back row, from left, are coaches Tiffany Cook, Brianne Lange, Joel Trussler, Jeff Lange and Tyler Kuchma.
Elmira’s Corrie Martin and her son, Lane, enjoy a hot dog between games during the tournament in Shakespeare on Saturday.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Learn about local history during the Harrington Homecoming Centennial Aug. 9
HARRINGTON AND AREA COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Submitted to the Gazette
Why Harrington? We’re trying to match the achievement of a century ago, when more than twice the village’s population came for the “Old Boys and Girls” reunion. But, why come to Harrington?
One-hundred and seventy-nine years ago, the answer was clear to farmers in the area because David Demorest built his grist mill. Farmers, often with their families, carted their grain to be ground at the Harrington Grist Mill. The village grew up around the mill. Come Aug. 9 and see how this all worked.
On Aug. 9, at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m., mill tours will be
provided at the Harrington Grist Mill by Tim or John, our modern-day mill experts.
• Hear how settlers of this area in the early 1800s cleared enough land to grow grains in quantities to warrant Demorest to build the mill in 1846.
• You will be shown how the grain was received and offloaded and where the farmers played checkers while waiting for the milling to be done.
• You will see the inner workings of how the mill machinery ground the grain and how it used to be powered by the stream running by out of the Harrington pond. You will see how the final product was bagged.
Several artifacts and records of the history of the
Charming log home on 1.25 acres just east of Exeter. Surrounded by mature trees for privacy, this property offers the perfect blend of country living
SUNDAY, AUGUST 3 1:00 - 3:00 P.M.
101 RUDY AVENUE, TAVISTOCK
kitchen, and main floor laundry. Enjoy a private yard with 18x36 pool, patio, and poolside bar. Freshly updated and move-in ready! Call today to view or view at the open house!
MLS#X12139631 NEW PRICE - $964,900
-
P.M.
Harrington Grist Mill will be on display to add to your understanding of how the mill was the hub of the village.
The Aug. 9 tours are part of the Harrington Homecoming Centennial celebrations that include a number of events from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. We have photographic evidence of the 1925 reunion in a five-foot panoramic photo with 500 people on Pitt’s Hill at the west entrance to the village. We intend to produce a similar photograph in tribute to our heritage. Everybody is welcome to be part of the big picture.
If you come for a mill tour on Aug. 9, please park at the ballpark on the north side of Road 96, west of the bridge. People with mobility issues can be dropped off at the mill, at 1 Victoria St., before parking.
The story is not just about Harrington. It’s also about the entrepreneurial vision of an early settler who used the resources at hand to fill a community need. This is how so may communities came to be.
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);
NOTE - CHANGING MARKET - The real estate market has certainly changed in the last few months, with many houses having price reductions. If you are a buyer, now is a good time to buy. If you would like more information on any of these listings or your own personal viewing, please call me!
• 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.
Hosted by Lucie Stephens - Sales Representative
Reaching a recovery milestone and reflecting on accessibility in modern society
FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
By Galen Simmons
For many, an uneven curb cut, a broken electronic door-opener or a shortage of accessible parking spaces can make the difference between a productive day and plans gone unfulfilled – or worse, a feeling of lost independence and the inability to carry out day-today tasks without asking for help.
For the past six months, my fiancé, Julia, and I learned this first-hand after Julia broke her leg quite badly (two bones, about six inches above the ankle, for those
who want the gory details). It happened on the morning we were set to move into the home we had just purchased together and, since then, our lives have revolved almost entirely around Julia’s injury and her recovery.
Recently and because Julia is once again walking without any assistive equipment, I had the absolute joy of returning the wheelchair and walker we had relied on to get Julia to and from the car and her many doctor’s appointments
in Stratford, London and Toronto. Getting rid of that equipment on a beautiful, sunny, summer morning was like a sign from above that this long, painful nightmare was near its end.
While Julia was and continues to be focused on her physical recovery, I made it my mission to coordinate every detail for all our outings, from timing to comfort to mobility and everything in between. Before this happened, I never imagined the exhaustive effort it takes for someone living with a physical disability and their caregivers just to get out the front door and in the car, let alone to do all those other things us able-bodied people do in a day that we take for granted.
I started taking stock of things like broken or missing accessible entrances, how steep a pathway or ramp is, and the often crumbling or poorly designed public infrastructure that makes it difficult to
roll a wheelchair up onto a sidewalk or into a public building.
While Julia’s disability is only temporary, it was upsetting to see how our world is built from the perspective of those of us without mobility issues, and it made me think twice about how so many people struggle daily just to live the quality of life I take for granted.
It also made me think of my friend, Diane Sims, an ardent accessibility advocate who pushed the City of Stratford for years to build an accessible entrance to the city’s police station, which was only just unveiled earlier this year. Now, she’s pushing the city to address another accessibility concern – the slope of the bridge to Tom Patterson Island, which is too steep to get over in a wheelchair or electric scooter.
The fact that Diane is pushing for this change while dealing with her physical decline as she contin-
ues to live with end-stage multiple sclerosis is nothing short of inspirational. The fact that she needs to advocate for this type of change in the first place is downright disappointing.
So, the next time you’re walking down the street, have a look at the state of the sidewalk or the number of accessible entrances at the buildings you pass and ask yourself, “Could I manage this if I was using a wheelchair or a walker?”
Count how many times the answer is, “No,” and remember we still have a lot of work to do to make our society inclusive for everyone. It’s not just up to those with physical limitations to advocate for greater accessibility. After all, most of us will end up with some kind of disability in our lifetime. When your turn comes, wouldn’t it be nice to know we’re all pushing for the same change?
Question: I want to start making
salad dressing. What vinegar should
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold
There are many types of vinegars from conventional distilled white to rice to malt, but besides taste preference, there are heaps of health differences. This holistic nutritionist has her own top three.
The best vinegar is apple cider, hands down. People have been cooking with it for centuries, and Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, used it to clean wounds more than 2,000 years ago. From recipe swap to popular modernday home remedy, all-star apple cider vinegar is here to stay.
Not much has changed. The primary active compound is five per-cent acetic acid. The key to its bevvy of body-boosting benefits lies within the organic unfiltered or unpasteurized version. Why, you wonder? Apple cider vinegar contains a sandy coloured residue which settles on the bottom of the jar. This magical murky and somewhat slimy sediment is known as the “mother.” The vinegar is made by adding bacteria and yeast culture to the strained apples. Ethanol is produced during the fermentation process, resulting in a powerful prebiotic and probiotic.
Supporting a healthy gut microbiome is key to a dramafree digestion system. Don’t discard the magnificent mother but be mindful to always shake the
vinegar prior to use. Apple cider vinegar is awesome anywhere and everywhere. A 2021 review noted apple cider vinegar may benefit total cholesterol levels. Some studies suggest it may kill bacteria and even promote weight-loss. Could this explain the cult following?
Fast facts: Apple cider vinegar is used as a natural deodorant, towel softener, dandruff relief and pH-balancing skin toner. Due to weight-loss hype, many will drink a tablespoon in water before meals. Gross? You can find apple cider vinegar gummies in your favourite supplement store touting the same benefits.
Balsamic vinegar, Italy’s famous olive-oil sidekick, is the only type of vinegar not produced by fermenting alcohol. Balsamic is a delightful dance for the taste buds, and like a fine wine, the longer the grapes age in oak barrels, the more fabulous the flavour. The price tag is sky high as well. I love balsamic paired with Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil and handfuls of fresh herbs on garden-fresh salads. It’s sweet and zesty flavor makes for a magnificent marinade as well. Drizzle over strawberries and serve with vanilla ice cream for a sweet and savory dessert.
As a nutritionist, I do need to remind you balsamic, however
palate pleasing, contains natural sugar and calories. One tablespoon contains 14 calories and four grams of sugar but, interestingly enough, a study suggests it may help people with type-two diabetes manage their blood sugar. For now, use sparingly. Sugar is sugar. Coconut vinegar is a staple in southeast Asian and Indian cuisine. It’s made from the
fermented sap of the flowers of coconut tree. The cloudy, slightly sweet vinegar contains a slew of nutrients and a range of plant compounds called polyphenols. Thanks to the eight- to 12-month fermentation process, the super sap is a source of good bacteria for the gut. Like apple cider vinegar, coconut vinegar contains acetic acid and may also help lower blood sugar. With all the
pesticides and herbicides in modern farming, I love the idea of soaking fresh produce in vinegar water to help reduce bacteria by up to 90 per cent and unwanted viruses up to 92 per cent. All the above mentioned vinegars are award-winning salad-dressing ingredients, but the two fabulous fruit vinegars are my go-to for baking. Happy healthy eating!
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
A drizzle of vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar adds both flavour and gut-friendly benefits to this fresh salad—proof that healthy can be delicious.
Discovering the amazing Winnipeg musical heritage
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
My itinerary, set up by the tourism folks at Economic Development Winnipeg, simply read:
“You’ll meet music historian John Einarson tomorrow from 10-11 a.m. at Salisbury House Restaurant, 759 Pembina Hwy.” So, I plugged that address into my GPS and, within a few minutes, found myself at an address completely unrelated to Pembina Highway. That meant we were late for our meeting with Einarson, and when we arrived, we rushed through the foyer looking for someone who might be named John Einarson.
I explained and apologized – he was more than gracious – and that launched one of the most interesting interviews I have ever done.
Einarson is a leading Canadian music historian, a retired history professor, author of 24 books about music history (with one more in the works) and an accomplished guitarist who has shared the stage with the likes of Randy Bachman and Neil Young.
It’s unlikely there is anything about Winnipeg’s musical heritage he doesn’t know, and he’s glad to share it. He conducts corporate tours, he is an active author and he has a very engaging Facebook page called “John Einarson Remembers.”
“Music really defined my life –it’s my passion, my obsession, my religion,” he told me.
If you are going to visit Winnipeg and you are a music lover, his books and his Facebook anecdotes are essential resources.
Now, back to rushing through the foyer at the Salisbury House restaurant where I had completely failed to notice the floor-to-ceiling
display cases, which hold musical treasures like a Randy Bachman guitar – long ago converted into a bass by his brother – Burton Cumming’s piano, a Neil Young guitar and sundry other memorabilia including a John Einarson guitar.
So, after we chatted over coffee in the restaurant, the first part of our tour got no farther than the lobby. It’s worth a visit. One intriguing item is a “Rock-ola” jukebox. Clever name, right? Turns out it was invented by a Manitoban whose actual name was David C. Rockola!
Einarson drove us around Winnipeg pointing out homes, storefronts, hotels and a mural that feature in the rich musical history of his city. And while, as a music geek, I knew about Winnipeg’s connections with the Guess Who, Neil Young and Bachman Turner Overdrive (BTO), that was the tiny tip of the iceberg. Einarson says “12 per cent of all working musicians in Canada claim to be from or to have gotten their start in Manitoba.”
Einarson revels in telling musical stories, especially those that might be less known such as the tale of Barbra Streisand getting fired from a gig at a high-end club in Winnipeg. Apparently, the young Streisand felt she was in the presence of bumpkins, and her attitude was quickly noticed. Goodbye, Barbra!
Or the story of Winnipegger Bob Nolan, a longtime member of Roy Rogers’ Sons of the Pioneers who co-starred with Rogers in many movies. Nolan wrote songs including “Tumbling Tumbleweeds” and “Cool Water,” allegedly the first
song ever sung by John Lennon. This is the kind of deep-dive information you get from Einarson, and it is entirely addictive.
We stopped for a photo at 152 Bannerman Ave and Einarson shared stories about the Guess Who, including the tidbit that the group’s smash hit, “American Woman,” was created through a spontaneous jam during a concert at the Aud in Kitchener! I also learned that while Cummings lived at 152, he and Bachman collaborated on iconic hits like “No Time.”
The list of music stars with Winnipeg connections is longer than I had imagined; as well as the Guess Who, BTO and Young, Einarson named Loreena McKennitt, Terry Jacks, Fred Penner, Lucille Starr, Lenny Breau, Gisele MacKenzie, Juliette, Tom Jackson, and then Einarson took a breath!
We drove past 172 Oxford, onetime home of Terry Jacks, 160 Luxton, where Bachman lived (and wrote a song that eventually became “Taking Care of Business”), and 1123 Grosvenor Ave., once home to Neil Young.
Einarson could tell us exactly where each of these jukebox heroes were in their musical development when they lived at those addresses. While we were stopped in front of Young’s home on Grosvenor, Einarson talked about his role in the band, the Squires, and added that one visitor to Neil’s house was a guy named Bob Dylan. Einarson also pointed out St. Ignatius Church, the first venue where Young played with the Squires.
We drove past Memorial Park where Janis Joplin performed. He told us about folkie Oscar Brand, Winnipeg-born, who hosted a longtime New York radio show called Folksong Jubilee. Brand was also involved in the founding of Sesame Street, where his contribution (and personality) was commemorated when a certain “Grouch” was named for him.
Winnipeg’s music history isn’t all about rock – the genres range from Métis music through country to jazz to folk to classical.
Our last stop was at 1400 Main St., the location of the last remaining Guess Who mural in the city. Did I take a selfie? Of course I did.
Music fans will delight in a self-guided tour of Winnipeg sites related to Canada’s amazing music scene, and Einarson’s books and Facebook page are the perfect places to start.
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)
Neil Young’s boyhood home at 1123 Grosvenor.
The last remaining Guess Who mural in Winnipeg.
160 Luxton, the boyhood home of Randy Bachman of Guess Who, Brave Belt and Bachman Turner Overdrive fame.
John Einarson in front of 152 Bannerman, one-time home of Burton Cummings.
The Liebler-Quehl Wedding: A study of faces and fashions
VINTAGE
VIEWS
By Tim Mosher Tavistock and District Historical Society
This photo is a great example of how far the medium of photography had advanced after its invention in France in 1822.
This is a very sharp, rich, black and white image using almost entirely the products produced by the Kodak company, based in Rochester, N.Y. Pharmacist and photographer John Lemp was invited by the families to take this milestone photo following the wedding at the bride’s home in Tavistock. It was an overcast day, which produces beautiful soft light – ideal for portraits – complimenting both young and old for its gentle, nearly shadowless results.
Mr. Lemp set up his big view camera on a tripod, posed the group, ducked under his dark cloth, focused on the upside-down subject (image reversal systems had not been invented yet) and no doubt asked them not to move as he used a slow shutter speed. The blurred branch on the right and face of the best man are telltale signs of this.
Despite the hot weather, all the men and boys are wearing their jackets, ties, vests, bowlers and fedoras and the boys are in their usual knickerbocker, knee-length pants and long socks. The male wedding party’s boutonnieres are all pinned to their lapels with their stems up. The young women and girls are all wearing white symbolizing innocence and youth while the older women are all in black representing modesty and
dignity – especially popular for widows.
Only three people are identified in this picture: the bride, Agnes Quehl, is the woman standing above the man reclining on the grass; the man on her right is the groom, Arthur Liebler, and the Reverend Dr. Frederich Veit is standing on the doorstep wearing a fedora but not wearing the traditional clerical collar and his usual pince-nez. Remarkably, Rev. Veit served his entire career at Trinity Lutheran, 45 years, from 1872-1917.
After a five-day honeymoon that took the newlywed Lieblers to “Detroit, Toledo and other points,” as described in the July 4, 1912, Tavistock Gazette, the couple managed Arthur’s parents’ hotel in Tavistock, the Oxford, on the main street. Here, Art and Aggie were widely reputed as having excellent homecooked meals, hand-pressed linens and cool drinks.
This is another good example of why it’s important to record the who, what, where and when in photos as relatives decades from now will be left guessing if you don’t. There are 53 people in this picture but, sadly, only three are positively identified. Photography has come a long way since the days of eightby-10-inch (20-by-25-centimetre) glass negatives recording our histories. Today, the date and time are automatically noted with all of our digital photos and it’s easy to add text later as captions on our computers and cell phones.
“Hold still for the photo,” are now words from our distant past.
Last week’s history mystery: The photo was of Dr. Niemeier’s building in Tavistock with ladies in their Sunday finery and a carriage with people posing for the photographer. The question was “What’s the sculptural vertical thing on the top left of the roof?” No one answered this correctly. The answer is that Dr. Niemeier had a pharmacy
on the ground floor directly below this object, so he had the international symbol of apothecaries, a mortar and pestle, mounted on the roofline to advertise this. A mortar is a small vessel with a bowl-shaped bottom; a pestle is a club-shaped, blunt tool used to hand-grind drugs into a powder or paste in the mortar. The horizontal part is thought to be a whimsical addition helping to secure
the oversized mortar and pestle. This week’s history mystery: What’s an odd thing about how some people in the wedding party are dressed? This question is open to all ages. Send your answer to tim_ mosher@hotmail.com. The first person to answer correctly will have their name, community name or rural route published in the next edition.
Celebrating 90 Years of faith, family and farming: Glenn Zehr honoured in Tavistock
Ellen Zehr retired to the Garden Homes at Nithview Community in New Hamburg.
Milestone birthdays aren’t always easy to come by, but one New Hamburg resident has defied the odds, celebrating 90 remarkable years of a life filled with family, faith and community service.
Glenn Zehr marked the occasion on Sunday at the pavilion in Tavistock, surrounded by his large family, friends and neighbours who came out to help him celebrate.
Glenn Zehr and his wife Mary Ellen Zehr, who turns 90 this coming January, have been married for 69 years. Together, they raised seven children and credit their strong faith for the blessings they’ve enjoyed throughout the decades.
“We feel extremely fortunate,” Glenn Zehr said, “and we thank God for the gift of family, friends, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.”
Glenn Zehr spent much of his life as a dairy farmer on the 15th Line of East Zorra, near Tavistock. In 2009, he and
But Glenn Zehr is known for more than just his contributions to agriculture. A dedicated local historian, he authored a book with help from his family on the history of Hillcrest Mennonite Church. He also served as a full-time pastor at Riverdale Mennonite Church for 18 years and has since offered pastoral leadership at several area churches.
A man of many gifts, Glenn Zehr’s impact on his community has been far-reaching, from his faith leadership to his storytelling and historical preservation.
As Glenn Zehr celebrated his 90th birthday, his family reflected on the many memories they’ve shared, and the lives he’s touched throughout his nine decades of a life well lived.
The family took in donations of food at his birthday party and they collected two full laundry hampers of food to give to the Wilmot Family Resource Centre in New Hamburg.
For many years, the Zehrs have volunteered at the MCC New Hamburg
store along with leading activities and events at the
Happy times were had by all on June 27, 1912, when Arthur Liebler and Agnes Quehl were married at Trinity Lutheran Church in Sebastopol, just north of Tavistock. The reception was held here, at the bride’s parents’ home on John Street in Tavistock.
(PHOTO ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN LEMP; LEMP STUDIO COLLECTION SCAN #0166. )
Mary
thrift
Garden Homes at Nithview Community.
The Zehr family gathers for a group photo at Glenn Zehr’s 90th birthday celebration in Tavistock. From left in front are Judy Farlow (Zehr), Mary Ellen and Glenn Zehr, and Janice Zehr. In the back are Colleen Zehr, Marilyn Zehr, Peter Zehr, Colleen Zehr and Caroline Yausie.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Style without the stress: Smart online shopping tips for men
By Scott Dunstall
In the last 10 years, three of Canada’s retail giants have quietly (and not so quietly) disappeared: Eaton’s, Sears and now The Bay have shuttered locations across the country, including our own at Conestoga, Fairview and Cambridge malls. With their departure, so went the Saturday afternoon ritual of trying on dress pants under fluorescent lighting while your wife whispered, “Just humour me and try the next size up.”
When the pandemic hit, the death knell was in place and the remaining few finally fell since then with The Bay being the last to bite the dust.
So, what are we left with? Winners and Marshalls are great if you enjoy the thrill of the hunt. I buy some socks and underwear at Walmart and I will compliment them on trying to follow the major trends. Local menswear shops are excellent for service and guidance, but for some, they can be intimidating, especially if you’re a newbie as most guys are due to higher priorities like feeding a family instead of reading GQ. And then finally, there’s online shopping.
Online shopping isn’t the enemy and if you are squeamish about buying clothes this way, then have no fear, this article is custom designed for you. In reality, buying clothes and shoes this way can be the easiest way to refresh your wardrobe without the stress of parking lots, changerooms, or judgmental mirrors.
written a thousand times (ok maybe three) about knowing your numbers. And I don’t mean your weekly lotto picks. I mean your waist, inseam, chest, neck and sleeve length. No guessing. Measure once, regret nothing. The better you know your sizes, the less likely you are to end up looking like the driver of a clown car.
Online stores can feel like the wild west; endless inventory and no sheriff. Use the filters including size, colour, price and brand to cut through the noise. If you’re buying on Amazon or any of the designer websites, these features can save you a lot of time and will take some of the stress out of your online buying experience.
Don’t skip the clearance sections either. I just went on the Designer Shoe Warehouse site and they have an amazing selection of winter boots on sale at great prices. These sections will often contain off-season items that these retailers are trying to unload before the new season inventory starts showing up.
Before you hit “checkout,” always check the return policy. Some online retailers or designers make returns easy while others act like you’re trying to return a used parachute or a rabid mongoose in a bag. Just look first to see how easy it is.
Customer reviews are good. Look for mentions of quality, fit and how the item holds up after a wash. If multiple reviewers
If someone says, “Fell apart after two wears,” take the hint and walk away. One thing I try to look for on Amazon is the number and per cent of customer returns. If the returns are higher than 15 per cent, chances are I’ll get a parrot instead of a parka. On the contrary, enough positive reviews saying the same thing can also build your confidence in that product.
Don’t be afraid to get down and dirty when making your evaluation. Most sites that offer clothing will give you the option of zooming in on the material. For me, this is very helpful in that it shows how well the material is constructed.
Promo codes are the unsung heroes of online shopping. Before you finalize a purchase, Google the store name plus “promo code.” Sites like Rakuten or Honey often auto-apply discounts or offer cashback. It’s the digital equivalent of finding 20 bucks in your winter coat, only you didn’t have
to wear a polyester parka to get it. Just ignore me and the polyester thing. Every time I think of anything polyester, I think of Otho in Beetlejuice getting zapped with the leisure suit wand.
If a site offers a discount for signing up with your email, go for it. Create a separate email account if you’re worried about your inbox becoming as busy as when I was a kid and our next-door neighbour was trying to stomp out the flaming bag of dog crap we left on his porch after we rang his doorbell. Did I say that out loud? Anyhow, sign up, grab the deal, then unsubscribe before they start emailing
And when someone compliments your outfit, you can smile knowingly and say, “Thanks. Online. Clearance.”
No one needs to know you saved 70 per cent.
Scott Dunstall has been on a stylistic journey for over 10 years. His belief is that every guy has a style of their own. When it’s discovered, it empowers and builds confidence. Scott has appeared several times on Rogers TV Kitchener as a guest on DAYTIME. His writing has been republished by LinkedIn Top Influencer and INC. Magazine contributing editor, Jeff Haden. He has also written several piec-
Tavistock’s annual Classic Car Show raises funds for Tavistock Assistance Program
support TAP’s local outreach efforts.
Tavistock’s annual Classic Car Show, held last week in the back parking lot of the Tavistock Mennonite Church, was described by many as “one of the best ever,” as sunny skies and hot weather welcomed car enthusiasts from across the region.
Organized and sponsored each year by Kurtis Waymouth and Zehr Insurance Brokers, the event raises money in support of the Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP).
By the time the last vehicle cruised out of the lot, 120 classic cars and trucks had participated, and $1,427 was raised to
With thousands of dollars raised over the years, TAP organizers extended their thanks to Zehr Insurance Brokers and the many volunteers who make the annual event possible.
Waymouth, account executive at Zehr Insurance, said the event is close to his heart.
“We insure dozens of classic cars each year,” he said, “alongside home, business and farm insurance. We’re proud to support TAP and the community through this event.”
Zehr Insurance has been serving clients for more than 70 years and can be reached in Tavistock at 519-655-2422.
The Waymouth family — Kurtis and Emily, with children Noah and Violet — help lead Zehr Insurance’s sponsorship of Tavistock’s Classic Car Show supporting TAP.
The Gruber family’s fully restored 1931 Ford Model A Tudor, enhanced by Eric Skinner. Pictured from left are Peter and Eric Gruber, Lily and Bradley Armstrong, with Maverick Gruber in front. The family lives in Tavistock and enjoys taking part in local car shows.
Car show volunteers from left are Dennis Laughton, Richard Zehr, Ashley Johns and Jessica Griffin. Missing from the photo are Jessica Yungblut and Ashley Flach.
Julian Fenton, winner of the People’s Choice Award, accepts his prize from Violet and Noah Waymouth on behalf of Zehr Insurance.
More than 120 classic cars and trucks packed the back lot of Tavistock Mennonite Church for this year’s Zehr Insurance Classic Car Show.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
THURSDAY, JULY 31
Tractor night in Plattsville Park.
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Bring your tractor and join in for music and BBQ.(“Summer Nights and Good Vibes” Plattsville Park
68 Mill St. E., Plattsville
MONDAY, AUGUST 4
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Wing Monster, Wild Boar, Ish n Chips Donations to Camp Bimini
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6
East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting
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
7 p.m.
Council chambers 25 Mill Street East, Milverton
MONDAY, AUGUST 18
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Crystal’s Fries, Ish n Chips, Fo’Cheezy Donations to Tavistock Agricultural Society
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 20
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
Wilmot Council meeting
7-11 p.m.
Council chambers
60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
TUESDAY, AUGUST 26
Wellesley Council meeting
6:45 p.m.
Council chambers
4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill
Deadline: Tuesday prior at 3 p.m. Contact: thewtgazette@gmail.com
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
Wednesday Walk in Wilmot’s Wonderful Woods with Louis ~ Baden Hills
7:00 -8:30 pm
Stroll along old agri experimental rows of walnut, new prairie meadow, pine plantation and hardwood forest. Details and register at letstreewilmot.ca/events/
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 - 11:25. Contact: 519-539-1231 x 6285
Tavistock Memorial Hall 1 Adam St. Tavistock ON STAMP CLUB
CLASSIFIED ADS —
FOR SALE
5th Wheel Trailer & Truck
2014 Chaparral Lite 5th Wheel. 2015 Dodge Ram 1500. Willing to sell as a set. Good condition. $29,950 or best offer.
Innerkip 519-469-3760
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.
