The Township of East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT) approved its first-ever strategic plan last year, a document that is intended to guide the municipality’s actions until 2028, when it will be updated.
A strategic plan is a high-level document that outlines an organization’s vision, mission, goals and key actions to guide its direction over a defined period, typically three to five years. The Gazette reached out to the township to see what progress has been made to date.
“I can confirm that staff and council review their work in conjunction with the six key strategic priorities daily,” said CAO Karen DePrest. “That is evidenced by the inclusion of those six priorities as a foundation for every report that is on the council agenda. Each report identifies which of the priorities it is related to.”
Homes’ (TCMH) Nithview Home during a heat wave, but the celebration of what will be a new, modern long-term care home carried on inside.
The current home holds up to 97
residents, but when the new build is completed in the spring of 2027, it will house 160 seniors and others in need of 24-hour care.
The six priorities are financial sustainability, good governance, infrastructure, service delivery, community vitality and environmental awareness.
DePrest expects township staff will likely provide an annual update report at the end of each fiscal year, leading into the following
Several elected officials and other dignitaries took part in a groundbreaking ceremony in New Hamburg on Tuesday afternoon to commemorate the construction of the new Nithview long-term care home in New Hamburg.
Nithview Home expansion breaks ground
The provincial government gave TCMH the green light to proceed with plans for the new home in 2020, but the pandemic put the brakes on for three years. CEO Dr. Steven Harrison said efforts behind the scenes carried on.
“That’s not to say we ever stopped working. We worked on conceptual planning, but it was not our main focus during that time.”
Harrison added once a meeting with the design team on April 24 of last year was over, he knew the project was ready to proceed.
“Two redesigns, five cost-consultant reports, thousands of hours of effort and 10 months later, we commenced construction.”
Work on the site began in February of this year, leading up to Tuesday’s festivities. Harrison explained the ripple effect of the new build will be tangible.
“In the end, we are committing about $60 million to this project as Tri-County. The increase in beds will add an additional $10 million annually to our local economy and bring our funding for long-term care at this site to $24 million, of which $17 million will be spent on staffing. That’s 325 jobs for this community.”
Harrison was thankful for the support of the non-profit operation’s board of directors, Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris and Ontario’s minister of long-term care, Natalia Kusendova-Bashta.
“She has been a tremendous support for this program and is currently on parental leave and couldn’t be here today. It is the work of the ministry and the government that has helped us get to this point. It is that collective commitment that will make us stronger.”
Harrison also pointed to the support of Wilmot Township and Mayor Natasha
Dr. Steven Harrison addresses a large crowd at the current Nithview Home while announcing the expected opening date of 2027 for a new, larger and modern long-term care home.
Salonen who tabled a motion last fall to have all development fees waived for the project, a reduction of nearly $1.5 million. After considerable debate, council passed the motion.
“This was an outstanding commitment, not only to this project, but to the community, and it was fraught with challenges. Anyone in this community knows it was not an easy decision to make but it was the right one.”
He added council’s decision meant more local residents will be able to age safely and closer to home. Since then, the Ontario government has mandated all municipalities waive development charges for any long-term care development.
The groundbreaking and presentations invoked an emotional response from some speakers, particularly TCMH board chair
Bruce Bechtel, who fought back tears.
“(It) will become not just a building, but a place of care, of compassion, of dignity, a place called home. I get emotional.”
Among the many dignitaries present was Donna Duncan, CEO of the Ontario LongTerm Care Association. She explained the Doug Ford government has been at the table as a willing participant to bring more beds online in Ontario.
“They made a promise and they stuck to it. They have made a continuous commitment to build and to see what works. If things aren’t working, they go back to the drawing board and make changes.”
PeopleCare recently opened new longterm care homes in Tavistock and Delhi, something Duncan said shows the province is focusing on small-town
Ontario, not just the GTA.
“We have to make sure aging in place means aging in your community. Today, we heard from Mike Harris and Steven Harrison about the importance of community, and where we are seeing the greatest success is in areas where communities are embracing projects. The partnerships between the organizations and provincial and municipal governments are important.”
The project is part of the Ontario government’s commitment to build 58,000 new and upgraded long-term care beds across the province. As of this month, 147 projects representing a total of 23,977 new and redeveloped beds are completed, under construction, or have ministry approval to construct.
“This groundbreaking is great news for our community,” said Harris. “Replacing the Nithview Home with a new state-ofthe-art facility will ensure our community has access to the care they need for generations to come.”
The design of the new building will include five resident home areas with private and standard rooms, providing residents with a more intimate and familiar living space, complete with dining and activity areas, and lounges. The building will include a garden level centralized “hub,” café, gathering place, chapel, hair salon and welcome centre. The new home will allow residents to experience more natural light, views of nature and a physical connection to a long-term care garden.
“This new long-term care home is a significant investment in Wilmot, made possible by the province and Tri-County Mennonite Homes, said Salonen. “It will bring over 100 new jobs to our community and offer more choice for aging in place.”
(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
Strategic Plan shapes EZT decisions
Continued from page 1
year’s budget development.
“For example, in developing this year’s budget, council and staff adopted a five-year capital budget forecast with key projects approved for 2025. This not only addresses the priority of financial sustainability but also was in keeping with maintaining a competitive tax rate.”
She added this year’s budget addressed five of the six pillars under good governance and several more under Infrastructure.
“All of this to say, the strategic plan is at the core of how we review our work in the township, both staff and council.”
The Gazette wanted to dig a little deeper into several areas of the plan, including section 2.1 under good governance, which states, “develop a comprehensive communications plan/strategy,” something that has yet to come to fruition. A communications strategy or plan helps a municipality engage effectively with its residents by providing a structured approach to informing, consulting and involving the community in decision making, services and initiatives.
“We continue to work on the communications piece. We have sent a couple of staff to some training sessions and are becoming more and more regularly active on social media,” said DePrest. “We do have a community engagement tool called Social PinPoint, which was used for the strategic plan itself as well as the work done with the recreation advisory committee (RAC) thus far.”
She added members of the RAC will be engaging both in person and digitally with the community as they look at priorities for future township-organized activities to better serve ratepayers this summer.
An issue top of mind for many young parents in EZT is the lack of available daycare spaces, specifically licensed ones, to take advantage of the federal government’s Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care system. The strategic plan has pillars under community vitality that
require the township to help residents access daycare services, explore options for daycare availability and affordability, as well as coordinate with Oxford County to work on daycare solutions.
Zorra Township included 88 childcare spaces in its new administration building and South-West Oxford is planning a similar project should its new municipal offices go ahead as planned. DePrest said it was not feasible for EZT’s new building in Hickson.
“The current property of the new administration building was not appropriate as a daycare site. It has a history of land uses that make it incompatible with that type of sensitive use. The township is always considering opportunities to partner with daycare providers and will keep that in mind if appropriate land or building opportunities occur in the future.”
DePrest wouldn’t rule out some type of daycare initiative in a future budget but said this year’s focus was on the assetmanagement plan update, the secondary plan completion and work on a drainage master plan.
“Those projects are all expected to be completed this year, so a communications plan could be proposed for the 2026 budget. We also expect to be getting recommendations from the RAC for consideration in the 2026 budget for organized activities and we continue to work on the parks and rec master plan recommendations as well as our strategic plan rollout. The communications plan would dovetail nicely with that ongoing work.”
The township has been resistant to adding a part- or full-time communications professional to staff and there is no indication as to how it would develop a plan or strategy should council decide to go in that direction.
The plan is available on the EZT website at www.ezt.ca/media/s0gdq5xz/strategicplan.pdf.
EZT supports Zorra Township road-safety motion
aiming to make rural roads significantly safer through strategic infrastructure improvements and municipal collaboration.
The township approved a resolution to work with Oxford County and area municipalities on the feasibility of implementing what is called a long-term Vision Zero Policy and the Good Roads Rural Safety Strategy across the county.
“The key thing to note here is that it’s just to look at the feasibility of implementing these. This isn’t presenting those polices, those strategies, as something we are going to do,” explained Mayor Phil Schaefer. “There are things to consider like costs, effectiveness, things like that.”
The Good Roads Rural Safety Strategy is a provincewide initiative led by the Ontario Good Roads Association (OGRA)
Though rural Ontario makes up only 17 per cent of the population, it experiences 55 per cent of road fatalities, demonstrating the urgent need for targeted safety measures. OGRA is advocating for a fiveyear, $183 million provincial investment. This funding would support municipal audits, upgrades and ongoing safety interventions. Municipalities would identify high-risk stretches and conduct road-safety audits to understand local hazards before implementing solutions.
The resolution came out of a request for support from Zorra Township, which had already passed a much more comprehensive motion to improve traffic safety.
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Sprucedale Public School hosts splash-tastic Water Play Day
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
On Friday, June 13, Sprucedale Public School students celebrated the approaching end of the school year with a Water Play Day.
The event featured a variety of exciting and creative water-themed games that kept students of all ages entertained. From a high-energy foam dance party to a duo inflatable slip ‘n’ slide, there was no shortage of fun for everyone. Other stations included sidewalk chalk art, Drip-Drip-Drop (a watery twist on Duck-Duck-Goose), a sponge relay and water dump races.
The entire student body took part in the activities. Six Grade 8 student leaders helped run several of the events. These students managed the Drip-Drip-Drop, sponge relay and water dump races with enthusiasm, encouraging younger students join in the fun.
The event was made possible thanks to the support of
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the Sprucedale school council, which organized the stations and generously covered the cost of the foam party, inflatables and activity materials. As an added treat, each student received a freezie to help cool down after a day of play.
“The student leaders did a fantastic job leading their teams,” said principal Lisa Cairncross. “They were positive and supportive, making sure the younger students had a fun day. Dancing in the foam was a highlight for many of the students.”
When asked whether Water Play Day might become an annual event, Cairncross was optimistic.
“I can’t say for sure, but it was definitely well received by staff and students. We really appreciate the support we received from our parents on school council. Our Sprucedale school community is an amazing support.”
One thing is for sure; this year’s Water Play Day made a big splash and created a lot of great memories for Sprucedale students.
Nominations are open for the 2025 WRCF Community Awards
Do you know:
• A community volunteer or philanthropist who creatively tackles issues of today, with an eye to the future, using innovative approaches and solutions?
• A business or organization that is committed to building and supporting our community through “Doing More Good”?
• An individual or organization in the community who is advancing social infrastructure in Waterloo Region?
Visit wrcf.ca/award-nominations to learn more and nominate someone for an award.
Britney Gruber (back), Wesley Weitzel, Ms. Budhram and Lenniz Graham enjoyed freezies at the Chill Zone.
The Blue Jays and the Blue Sharks spirit teams race each other at the bucket dump.
Kindergarten friends Taylor Gauler and Emma Fortune take a break.
(DIANE DANEN PHOTO)
Sprucedale students loved the Foam Dance Party.
Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade celebrates 30 years with open house
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
The Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade marked a major milestone on June 14, celebrating 30 years as a museum with a public open house that drew a crowd of more than 350 people from Baden, Wilmot Township and surrounding areas.
Visitors were treated to an impressive outdoor display that included six antique fire trucks, two horse-drawn fire pumps and five pieces of hand-pulled firefighting equipment, offering a unique look at how fires were fought in earlier eras.
Inside the museum, guests explored an extensive collection of historical artifacts, from old uniforms and badges to rare firefighting tools and equipment used throughout the decades.
After the opening ceremonies, museum president Peter Gingerich shared a brief history of the museum. He was followed by congratulatory remarks and official presentations from MP Tim Louis, MPP Mike Harris, regional Coun. Sue Foxton and Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen.
Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed food and refreshments including popcorn, hamburgers, hotdogs and pop. A highlight for children was the opportunity to use a hand-powered fire pump from the 1800s to
A lineup of antique and modern fire trucks gave attendees a chance to see the evolution of firefighting up close.
spray water from a hose and knock down artificial flames on a plywood house.
A fundraising silent auction and a “name and date the artifact” contest added to the day’s festivities.
The Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigade expressed gratitude to all who attended and
said they look forward to preserving and sharing local fire service history for another 30 years and beyond.
Tours of the museum can be arranged for individuals, families, schools and community groups by calling 519-572-2811 or visiting wilmotfiremuseum.com.
Some of the vintage equipment used to fight fires in decades past.
A young “firefighter of the future” tries his hand at dousing flames under the guidance of his father during the open house in Baden.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Tavistock resident cashes in with 50/50 win while supporting Shakespeare community
WEST Gazette Correspondent
A Tavistock man is smiling after walking away with a big win from the recent Shakespeare Field Day and Fish Fry.
Gerry “Woody” Wettlaufer, a Janelle Avenue resident who grew up on his family’s farm on Pork Street (now Perth Line 33) in South Easthope, was the lucky winner of the $1,075 50/50 draw. Wettlaufer, who attended S.S. #10 and later Sprucedale Public School in Shakespeare, has always maintained strong ties to the village.
“I’m always happy to support the community,” he said, adding that the Shakespeare Community Athletic Association (SCAA) puts on a great event each year. “It’s a great cause.”
The other half of the draw helps fund local youth sports, including baseball, soccer, skating and hockey programs, all organized through the SCAA. Wettlaufer, now an avid Spider motorcyclist, fondly remembers his time growing up on the family farm with his brother, Ken, and still enjoys returning to Shakespeare for special events.
From left, SCAA president Paul Bender and Field Day chair Deb Bell present Gerry Wettlaufer with his $1,075 50/50 winnings. Shakespeare’s annual Field Day and Fish Fry is held the second Saturday in June and draws residents past and present to celebrate community spirit.
GARY
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Linda Humphrey honoured with 4-H Volunteer Tribute Award
Gazette Correspondent
Longtime 4-H volunteer Linda Humphrey was recently awarded the Oxford 4-H Volunteer Tribute Award, recognizing her dedication, passion and years of service to the youth in our community.
Humphrey has been a part of 4-H for over 40 years as a member, club leader and communications coordinator. Her enthusiasm, especially for life skills like quilting, sewing, baking and cooking, has helped shape many local 4-H programs.
“She is a great promoter of 4-H, displaying a ‘4-H Club Leader Lives Here’ sign at her residence, wearing 4-H t-shirts and talking about 4-H to whoever will listen,” said fellow 4-H leader Shonna Ward. “She is also a great recruiter of volunteers.”
“She makes it look effortless,” added fellow volunteer Frances Campbell in a letter supporting Humphrey’s nomination for the Volunteer Tribute Award. “Her many years of experience and deep passion for 4-H are what make it all seem so easy. From teaching kids how to bake and sew to making sure every member feels
welcomed and included, Linda Humphrey truly exemplifies the 4-H motto: ‘Learn to Do by Doing.’ “
Elizabeth Bruce, a former member of Humphrey’s 4-H club, supported her nomination with a heartfelt letter reflecting on her positive experiences.
“Linda always made sure we were learning hands-on,” Bruce wrote. “If you sewed a seam incorrectly, she wouldn’t fix it for you, she’d hand you a seam ripper, show you how to use it and let you correct your own mistake. That’s how we learned.
“Now, I’m proud to be a 4-H leader myself. I appreciate the example Linda set for me and I strive to live up to it every day.”
Through her guidance and dedication, Humphrey created meaningful opportunities for youth to learn by doing, which is at the heart of everything 4-H stands for. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she quickly adapted by learning Zoom and kept her club active with virtual sewing and cooking projects. She also helped youth from Alberta and as far away as Singapore stay connected with 4-H during the pandemic.
In one unique quilting project, Humphrey mailed out fabric to each member, who sewed a square at home. She then put the blocks together into a quilt that was auctioned off in support of Crow Shield Lodge.
Over the years, Humphrey has led many fun and educational projects such as Magic Blocks, Modern Quilting and Hip to be Square. She’s known for going the extra mile, hosting meetings at her home, churches and community centres, and most recently, at the Tavistock Village Manor. Humphrey also created two popular projects, The Cookie Jar and Quilting, which are now used as 4-H Ontario projects.
Dorris-Anne Smith, another longtime volunteer and friend, describes Humphrey as “well-versed in the art of volunteering.”
She calls her a quiet, humble leader who gives generously of her time and talents.
“4-H is her lifestyle,” she said. “She gives quietly and never expects anything in return.”
Smith fondly recalled how Humphrey once brought her newborn to a 4-H
meeting and used the opportunity to teach the group how to bathe a baby.
“She comes up with ideas that are practical and simple,” she added. “And she puts her heart into everything she does.”
Humphrey’s projects went beyond teaching practical skills, they were about broadening perspectives. In her letter, Bruce recalled one project called Milk Makes It Better. At each meeting, members were introduced to a different alternative dairy product. Believing that one can’t dislike something without trying it first, Humphrey organized blind taste tests featuring almond milk, soy cheese and other dairy substitutes. For many participants, it was their first time encountering these foods. Through creative, handson activities like this, Humphrey found fun and engaging ways to teach nutrition while helping members explore the world around them.
At the Oxford 4-H Awards Night in 2022, Humphrey was honoured for 40 years of volunteer service and received a special bracelet crafted from two 4-H spoons.
This year, she was further recognized with the 4-H Tribute Award. As part of the tribute, Humphrey was given the choice between a commemorative tree or a bench. She chose a bench that was constructed by students at College Avenue Secondary School, including a student who is also a 4-H member. It now sits behind Tavistock Village Manor, where Humphrey can see it from her apartment window.
Village Manor residents, along with Humphey’s friends and fellow 4-H club leaders, came together to celebrate her well-earned honour. Three of Humphrey’s four children were able to attend the event. Her daughter from Alberta was not able to be there but her son and his family traveled from Arthur, her daughter came from Woodstock, and another daughter and her partner arrived from Barrie to join in the celebration.
Humphrey continues to be a shining example of what a 4-H leader and volunteer can be, and how one person’s passion can touch an entire community.
Linda Humphrey is pictured seated on the bench she received, handcrafted by students from College Avenue Secondary School, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow 4-H members and volunteers. Pictured in the front row from left to right are Geoff Innes, Shonna Ward, Julia Brekelmans, Charlotte Ball, Jane Danen, Laura Green and Bethany Humphrey. In the back row from left to right are Lauren Ball, Tom Humphrey, Megan Ball, Makayla Humphrey, Jack Danen, Melvin Bergsman, Christy Brekelmans and Cynthia Humphrey
DIANE DANEN
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Linda Humphrey stands proudly behind the commemorative bench placed at Tavistock Village Manor in her honour, recognizing her dedication and service as the recipient of the Oxford 4-H Volunteer Tribute Award.
Tavistock Men’s Club hears important warning about fraud
fraudsters pretending to be a grandchild in trouble and urgently requesting money.
Members of the Tavistock Men’s Club received an important message at their monthly meeting Thursday evening in the club hall.
Guest speaker OPP Const. Jim Golden addressed the group about the rising number of frauds and scams targeting local residents, especially seniors. He explained one of the most common scams involves
Golden urged everyone not to take any action before contacting police and emphasized the importance of never sharing personal banking information over the phone.
Men’s Club president Brian Boland said the presentation was well received.
“P.C. Golden was an excellent speaker with a very captive audience,” he said. “He answered many questions and gave great insight into an issue that affects many in
mccthriftontario.com/newhamburg 41 Heritage Dr, New Hamburg
our community.”
Boland also thanked club members for their continued volunteer efforts and reminded residents that the club will be selling sauerkraut on Saturday, June 28, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and again ahead of the long weekends at the end of July and
August. Sales will take place at the club’s backyard location on Woodstock Street North.
He noted that June marks the final meeting until September, when the club will begin preparing a fresh batch of their world-famous, homemade sauerkraut.
Tavistock Men’s Club guest speaker OPP Const. Jim Golden is thanked by club director Jim Pitcher after delivering an informative presentation on fraud prevention.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Township seeking resident feedback on two new bylaws
Public input being collected until Aug. 15
LEE GRIFFI
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Township of Wilmot is developing two new bylaws and invites residents to participate in the process by sharing their feedback.
The bylaws up for review involve sewers and encroachment, perhaps two issues not always on people’s minds, but important to the township.
The sewer use bylaw is being developed to update and consolidate two related bylaws that were drafted in 1973. It includes new rules aimed at keeping the sanitary system free of obstructions and minimizing inflow and infiltration.
The encroachment bylaw is the first of its kind in Wilmot. It will help residents understand how they can and cannot use
the municipal right of way – the road and area of land between a road and a property line.
Ken VanderWal is the township’s manager of engineering and said public input is important for all bylaws as they impact residents and township operations.
“The formal engagement process for the encroachment bylaw was prompted by concerns about construction materials and other hazards like trees, fences and ornamental objects being placed in the right of way, which can create safety and accessibility issues.”
He added the sewer-use bylaw is high priority due to the significant costs associated with treating rainwater, as well as the fact that several sections of sanitary sewer are at capacity which limits development.
“Sewer capacity can be gained either
Tavistock barbecue raises funds for local health-care initiative
by costly upsizing of sewers or by removing sources from the sanitary system that should be directed elsewhere,” he explained.
The township does not currently have an encroachment bylaw, which makes it difficult to ensure the right of way is being used appropriately.
“Proper use of the right of way ensures that people of all abilities can move through the area safely. It also allows the township and third parties access to utilities for critical upgrades and maintenance,” said VanderWal. “The sewer use bylaw was last updated over 50 years ago and only addresses keeping items like grease and oil out of the sewers. The Region of Waterloo bylaws now cover this since the region owns the water-treatment facility.”
The new sewer bylaw aims to remove rainwater from the sanitary system. Sewer connections that include rainwater, either from sump-pumps or downspouts, increase the flows in the system and reduce capacity for development and intensification, including in-law suites.
“These sources also increase the cost of operating the system and increase the risk of sewer surcharges during significant rainfall events,” VanderWal said.
Once the public engagement period closes on Aug. 15, township staff will gather all comments and share them with council. The bylaws could be adjusted based on feedback before they are formally passed.
“Bylaws are an important tool that helps the township regulate how municipal property and infrastructure are used by the public,” added VanderWal. “Feedback from residents helps ensure nothing is missed during the development of our bylaws, and that they are understood and accepted once they pass.”
Residents can review each of the bylaws and provide feedback through the township’s online engagement platform at www.wilmot.ca/engage. Users can click the “Follow” button on each project page to receive updates as staff work through the bylaw-development process.
Those who prefer to review a hard copy of the draft bylaws are encouraged to visit the upper level of the township administration complex during business hours. Comments can also be provided by phone at 519-634-8519 ext. 9290 or by email at egineering@wilmot.ca.
Feedback will be accepted until Aug. 15, and staff will then consider all comments as they finalize the draft by-law and present it to council for approval.
A successful barbecue fundraiser was held last Friday in Tavistock, where board members of Tavistock Community Health Inc. (TCHI) teamed up with staff at Tavistock’s Scotiabank to grill burgers and hotdogs for a steady stream of supporters.
Set up in the alley between Scotiabank and the IDA Pharmacy, the lunchtime event drew consistent foot traffic from residents eager to support local health
The fundraiser brought in $876, and Scotiabank generously matched the total, bringing the final amount donated to TCHI to $1,752.
Board chair Russ Huber expressed his appreciation to all the people and business employees who came out to enjoy lunch and help a good cause. He also extended thanks to Scotiabank for its continued support of local non-profit organizations and for helping TCHI get closer to its fundraising goals.
Last week’s barbecue fundraiser for Tavistock Community Health Inc. saw board members and Scotiabank staff working side by side. From left, Russ Huber, Marlene Wivell, Frank Meconi, Bruce Swartzentruber, Ellen Hurley, Margaret Herlick, Vicki Eckhardt, Patrick Madge, Michele Frook, Nichelle Horst and Dennis Kuepfer. Absent from this photo is Derek Hyde.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Wendy Anderson earns national quilting honour at Quilt Canada
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
If you’ve heard of Quilt Canada, you’re already one step ahead of me. But for Wendy Anderson, it’s a name that now holds special significance.
Well known in Perth County’s South Easthope township for her longstanding role in the dairy farming community alongside husband, Brian, and their family, Anderson recently received a prestigious honour at the annual Canadian Quilters Association event, Quilt Canada, held this year at the International Centre in Mississauga.
Anderson entered one of her creations in the “bed-size quilt from patterns” category. Of the 125 quilts juried into the national show, hers was awarded the “Excellence in Piecing Prize”— one of the show’s overall top honours.
“This was the third time I’ve had a quilt juried into the show, but it’s the first time I’ve won a major prize,” said Wendy. “I’ve even had a quilt not accepted in the past, so I’ve experienced it all!”
The Quilt Canada show moves to a different Canadian city each year. Last year it was held in Edmonton, and next year it will take place in Winnipeg. The show attracts quilters from across the country and features more than just competitive exhibits. A large merchant mall draws vendors from British Columbia to Newfoundland, with one vendor
By Jake Grant
noting on Facebook that she sold a third of her annual inventory over the show’s three days.
“With online shopping becoming a big part of the quilt world – especially since the pandemic – getting your brand known at a national event like this can be incredibly important,” Anderson said.
Workshops, lectures and exhibitions accompany the juried show, offering education in techniques from renowned quilters who share their personal journeys. Youth contests are also a growing part of the event, with age categories ranging from five to 18. Sewing machine companies often sponsor these classes and even award new machines as prizes.
One contest, sponsored by a fabric company, challenges participants to create a project using supplied fabric under specific parameters, with winners selected both online and at the in-person event.
But the biggest draw remains the National Juried Show.
Each fall, the Canadian Quilters Association publishes a list of categories and rules. Quilters must submit high-quality photos of their work by a February deadline. A certified jury evaluates submissions based on these photos, with selected entrants notified in April.
Once accepted, quilts are shipped to the show where a separate panel of judges selects winners in each category. In addition to first, second and
1. What is the strongest hand in Texas hold em’ poker?
2. Which 1989 Billy Joel song mentions a moon shot, Woodstock, Watergate, and punk rock?
3. How many countries does the Equator pass through?
4. Who won the 2025 Stanley Cup?
5. Scoring two under par on a par five hole is called what in golf?
6. What is James Bond’s code name?
7. M&M’S Fruit Chews would become what popular candy?
8. The Saturday Night Massacre refers to the name of what scandal?
9. When a fruit is at its ideal condition, it is said to be ______?
10. Bronze is an alloy consisting of what two elements?
third-place awards, special prizes are presented for hand quilting, machine quilting, appliqué, miniatures and a coveted “Best in Show.”
“In past years, we’d receive our quilts back from the show with the judges’ comments, which is incredibly helpful for improvement,” Anderson said.
And for those less familiar with the quilting world, Anderson offered a point of comparison.
“Think of Quilt Canada like the Royal Winter Fair. That’s how big of a deal it is.”
CELEBRATING 50 WONDERFUL YEARS!
Bill and FergusonLinda
beloved parents & grandparents, will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on July 12th. Their families are proud to honour this incredible milestone, marking five decades of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Join us in congratulating them on this special occasion and wishing them many more years of happiness and togetherness! With much love and admiration, Kim, Kris, Kari & Ken and Families
Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
PeterS 2025
R.R. 2, Tavistock’s Wendy Anderson has made local quilting history, earning a national award for excellence at Quilt Canada.
(CANADIAN QUILTERS ASSOCIATION PHOTO)
BIRTHDAY, ANNIVERSARY, WEDDING, NEW BABY, GRADUATION, ETC.
Place an announcement in the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Call Sharon at 519-580-5418 or email sharonbleis@gmail.com
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.
June 24 - July 1, 2020, Edition (5 years ago)
According to an official release from the County of Oxford, the Tavistock wastewater lagoon construction project for Cell #1 has been halted. After several weeks of extremely foul odours which still continue, emanating from the lagoon cell and affecting the entire town, the County of Oxford has suspended the project until later. In a statement circulated by the county last week, it stated, “The County is very sensitive and apologetic with regards to the lagoon-odour concerns and associated impacts that you and other Tavistock residents have experienced since project works began. In response to public odour concerns, the county is proceeding with reverting plant conditions back to pre-project (typical operating) conditions at this time. Upgrades to the lagoons are still necessary and the county will provide an update once next steps are confirmed.”
The Government of Ontario is taking further action to end hallway health care, support current and future patient services and invest in equipment to immediately tackle COVID-19 by increasing funding for the province’s hospitals. Today, Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman announced additional funding for hospitals in Oxford including $291,600 for the Alexandra Hospital Ingersoll, $457,600 for the Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital and $3,664,300 for the Woodstock General Hospital.
As you may know by now, the Tavistock Gazette printing and publishing division, which has been in the Gladding family for the past 51 years, has been sold. The proud new owner is Stewart Grant who is the publisher of the St. Marys Independent. He and his team will begin publishing the Gazette out of its current location for the July 8 edition.
In lieu of regular graduation ceremonies, Grade 8 students of Hickson Central Public School experienced a drive-by graduation ceremony last Wednesday, June 24, in the driveway of the school. Principal Paul Bosacki and his staff lined the sidewalk and turnaround area of the entrance drive at a physical distance to welcome and congratulate each of the graduates as they drove in. Grade 8 teach-
ers Jon Empringham and Victoria Kimmerley greeted the students and their families with special gifts from the staff. Many students also reciprocated with cards and gifts for the teachers who they haven’t seen face-to-face in months.
June 23-30, 2010, Edition (15 years ago)
There was a wave of emotion Friday night as hundreds of local cancer survivors took to the track at College Avenue Secondary School in Woodstock for the annual Canadian Cancer Society Relay for Life. Three Harvard aircraft flew over the venue just after 7 p.m. to start the proceedings as people lined the track cheering and clapping as the Survivor’s Lap was celebrated. They remembered those who had died in the previous year and challenged everyone to fight back against this dreaded disease that affects one in every four people in Canada.
Two weeks ago, the Optimist-sponsored Tavistock Tornadoes played a home-and-home series with the Mitchell B team. In the first game, Tavistock put up 15 goals to Mitchell’s 0. In the next game, the Tornadoes again scored high with 10. In those two games, almost every player tallied a point, even goalkeeper Simon Bender came good on a penalty shot while playing net. The next two games were much closer, one against Tavistock A. Colton Kropf and Simon Bender shared the keeper job for a score of 6-2 for the first win. The last game in St. Pauls turned out to be a great comeback. Down 4-1 at half, the Tornadoes whirled up some fight and brought the score back to 5-4, then with 30 seconds left, St. Pauls managed to tie the game.
June 21-28, 1995, Edition (30 years ago)
The Tavistock Midget girls came home with gold medals from the New Hamburg tournament going undefeated all weekend. In the first game Saturday, they defeated Waterdown 6-4 and later met Heartlake with another win of 9-5. Early Sunday morning, they captured their third win with a mercy to Brampton 100. In the championship game in the heat of the afternoon, the girls met Waterdown for the second time. Trailing 9-6 going into the fifth inning, the girls pulled together and ended the game with a close 11-10. Champions include Lisa Iutzi, Darolyn Swartzentruber, April Willsey, Tara Bender, Chrissy Wilhelm, Tricia Bender, Joni Yungblut, Brian Wilhelm, Linda Ruby, Shannon Roth, Donna Swartzentruber, Katherine Quehl, Kim Woelfle, Jill Weicker, Amanda Junker, Jill McKay, Barb Wilhelm and Suelyn Wirth.
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
88 Wellington Street, Stratford, Ontario N5A 2L2
THURSDAY, JUNE 26
SATURDAY, JUNE 28 10:30 - 12:00 NOON
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MLS#X12139631 $999,900
Tavistock Optimist Steak Stag draws more than 400 supporters
Tavistock’s Optimist members were out in full force last Thursday night for their annual fundraising Steak Stag at the Optimist Park Pavilion on the western edge of town.
MLS#12194819 NEW PRICE $659,900 Open House hosted by Kathie Skowby
This spacious 4-5 bdrm, 2-storey home sits on a private 0.61-acre lot surrounded by farmland, just minutes from Stratford and Tavistock. Features include a large eat-in kitchen, multiple living spaces, main floor laundry, and an oversized garage. Upgrades: geothermal heating, 200 amp service, new 20kw generator (2023), and a 50-year roof. Peaceful setting with plenty of parking and a convenient u-turn driveway. Call to view or view at the open house!
MLS#X12202168
More than 400 hungry area men took part in the evening tradition, which offers the perfect opportunity to catch up with neighbours and support local youth programs.
Optimist Club president Tim Roth was thrilled to see such a strong turnout.
“It’s great to see so many community members continue to support our annual event,” Roth said.
June has been a busy month for the club, which also hosted its popular ParkFest and sponsored the Tavistock Public School Bike Rodeo. On top of that, the club recently donated $25,000 to the Tavistock Home and School Playground committee to help fund the school’s new playground.
Organizers say they feel fortunate to live in a town with so many dedicated volunteers and community-minded organizations. The Optimist Club remains committed to its motto, “Supporting youth in the community” – a promise it continues to deliver on in spades.
A large crowd of steak lovers enjoys hand-cut strip loins from Butch Mogk of Mogk Meats. Many attendees claimed they were “the best steaks they ever barbecued.” Pictured at front table are Dave Kollman, Jeff Roth and Mark McKay.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Canadian reflections: Local, provincial and federal politicians consider what Canada Day means to them
GALEN SIMMONS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
For most of us, this upcoming Canada Day will be an opportunity to take a pause from our day-to-day, spend time with family, friends and neighbours, and celebrate the country we call home.
Yet these are undoubtedly challenging times. Tariffs push the cost of living ever higher, attainable housing is out of reach for many, threats to our very sovereignty have come from a country we once considered our closest ally and Canadians – especially those of us in Ontario who endured not one but two major elections already this year – continue to be divided along political lines.
With all of that in mind, let’s take some time to remind ourselves what it means to be Canadian.
In honour of Canada Day, the WilmotTavistock Gazette asked our local, provincial and federal representatives what Canada Day means to them. These are their responses.
East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer
“Canada Day, to me, is taking the time on one day to think of the many generations of people who have built Canada into a country envied by many, and one whose history and future should be celebrated.
“There have always been divisions along political lines, between people, but Canada Day is at least one day when we should all celebrate the one thing that unites us: the unconditional love of this country.
“Canadians are blessed to have freedom, peace, natural resources, democracy among many other things. When I travel through my township, and indeed anywhere in this country, I am awed by its natural beauty and feel so grateful to call this country home.”
Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen
“Canada Day is a time to celebrate what unites us, from coast to coast to coast, as the true North, strong and free. In a world that often feels divided, this day reminds us of the strength we find in community, shared values and simple moments of joy. It’s a chance to come together, create lifelong memories and celebrate the country we’re proud to call home.”
Wellesley Mayor Joe Nowak
“I’ve always been a proud Canadian. For me, July 1 is not just one day to celebrate the fact that we live in the best country in the world, with passionately proud and kind people. We have shown that we’ve often been able to set differences aside and work together across political boundaries to make our country even stronger and more resilient to face adversity.
“We’ve managed to survive and thrive through economic and social challenges because we have been able to retain our values, find solutions and respect others. I believe that diversity is our strength, and we must continue to be a welcoming and compassionate nation.
“We are a sovereign nation and that fact has become a more dominant force over the past six months as we’ve faced the challenges of economic crises seen all over the world, not just at home.
“We are blessed to live in a country rich in resources, rich in ideas and led by leaders who are working together to the same goal, which is to keep our freedom, our sovereignty and our beautiful Canada safe. My pride to be a Canadian is immense and I realize how important my role is to positively convey this feeling.
“I am grateful for our rich history of standing up for what is right, and I thank our veterans from all generations who have given us our freedom.
“I proudly call Canada ‘home.’ ”
Oxford MPP Ernie Hardeman
“Canada Day is a time for neighbours to come together and celebrate the values that make our country strong like freedom, respect, hard work and opportunity. It’s a day to honour our shared history, recognize the sacrifices that built this nation and look ahead with pride and purpose. I’m proud to call Canada home and deeply grateful for the people, especially in our rural communities, who make it the greatest country in the world.
“We shouldn’t have to put our differences aside. In Canada we celebrate our differences because we understand the importance of community, whether it’s coming together at the local fair, a community BBQ, or helping out a neighbour in need. Canada Day is a time to come together as friends and families and celebrate the country we’re proud to call home. No matter our background or beliefs, we all share a common hope for a strong, free and united Canada and that’s something truly worth celebrating.
“As Canadians, we have so much to be grateful for, such as our way of life and the freedoms we enjoy. We’re blessed to live in a country where people look out for one another, where hard work is rewarded, we are safe and where every generation has the chance to build a better future. We have one of the highest standards of living in the world and that’s something worth appreciating every day.”
Oxford MP Arpan Khanna “Canada Day is a time to reflect on the shared values that unite us as Canadians. It is an occasion to honour those who built our country and to recognize the sacrifices made by those who serve, ensuring our land remains glorious and free. Despite our differences, we all share a love for our nation and a commitment to a better future.
“On Canada Day, we should all set politics aside to celebrate what brings us
together: community, family and the promise of Canada. We are truly blessed to be Canadian and call this country home.”
Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris
“Canada Day is a time for us to come together as Canadians and celebrate this country and all it has to offer. Regardless of our political or philosophical stripes, we can all agree that Canada is the greatest country on Earth. Our shared spirit of community and togetherness is something truly worth celebrating, now more than ever.”
Kitchener-Conestoga MP Tim Louis
“Canada Day is a celebration of who we are and all we’ve built together. In a world facing uncertainty, Canadians continue to show resilience, kindness and unity. Despite economic pressures and global challenges, we remain a country defined by opportunity, compassion and hope.
“This July 1st, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on what makes Canada special. Images that inspire me range from the family farms of Wilmot to the historic charm of New Hamburg. Every day I am reminded that we are surrounded by the richness of rural life and the strength of our local communities. Whether it is neighbours lending a hand, volunteers organizing community events, or families gathering at local parks and fairs, the spirit of togetherness is alive and well here. We are fortunate to live where people look out for one another, traditions are honoured and the future is shaped by hard work and dedication.
“Canada Day offers the opportunity to put aside our differences and come together in celebration. It’s a reminder that our strength lies not in our sameness, but in our shared commitment to building a better future – for everyone.
“Let’s celebrate the spirit of Canada –with kindness, connection and a sense of belonging. Happy Canada Day!”
Display Your Canadian Spirit
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
Canada Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by showing your true colours? This week’s Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette features a special centre spread you won’t want to miss! Inside, you’ll find a full schedule of fun Canada Day events happening right here in our community, from lively music, food, family activities and more. It’s your go-to guide for making the most of the day!
You’ll also see ads from some of the amazing local businesses that help make our community special. Take a moment to appreciate the support they offer our community year-round.
Then, once you’ve perused the festivities, pull out the Canadian flag and hang it proudly in your window. It’s a simple way to show your love for this country and join your neighbours in a community-wide celebration of what it means to be Canadian.
Happy Canada Day from all of us at the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette!
Experience live music, family-friendly activities, fireworks and more at
Wilmot’s Canada Day celebrations!
TOWNSHIP OF WILMOT
Submitted
The Township of Wilmot and Wilmot Canada Day Task Force are thrilled to share the schedule for this year’s Canada Day celebrations.
The event will begin at 7 a.m. in Norm Hill Park in New Hamburg with an Indigenous Sunrise Ceremony, led by Crow Shield Lodge.
Opening ceremonies will follow at 1 p.m., with the singing of our national anthem, a Colour Guard led by the New Hamburg Legion, and cake served by members of Township Council.
More sweet treats will be available after the ceremony, with the opening of several dessert food trucks. The New Hamburg Optimists will run a barbecue from 1:30 to 7 p.m.; other food vendors will operate from 7 p.m. to dusk.
The Kid Zone opens at 1 p.m. and will feature a lively mix of games, entertainment, creative activities and classic outdoor races. Don’t miss popular children’s entertainer Erick Traplin at 1:30 and 4 p.m.!
The Vendors Market will also open at 1 p.m., giving attendees a chance to explore booths featuring products and information from local businesses, artisans and creators.
Live music takes the stage from 1:15 to 8 p.m., with performances by the New Hamburg Concert Band, Dolinar Dosman and Dunn, the Randy Satchell Band, Dave Martin, After Midnight, and Counting Down the Hours.
The celebration will close with a dazzling fireworks display at dusk, weather permitting.
A detailed schedule of events is available at www. wilmot.ca/canadaday. The schedule is subject to change; watch the website and the Township’s Facebook page for the latest updates: www.facebook. com/wilmottownship.
This event is a joint effort between the Township and volunteer members of the Wilmot Canada Day Task Force. Questions about the event can be directed to 519-634-8444, ext. 9235 or manny.okrafka@ wilmot.ca.
Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen cuts the Canada Day cake during the 2024 Wilmot Canada Day celebration.
(GALEN SIMMONS PHOTOS)
Even the Nith River Monster came out of hiding to enjoy Wilmot Township’s Canada Day celebrations with Cullen Schneider at last year’s event.
FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
By Galen Simmons
In a few days, we as Canadians will come together to celebrate the country we call home.
As we do every year, we will put our differences aside to enjoy Canada Day festivities with our family, friends and neighbours, and we will celebrate our shared and diverse Canadian values, identities, cultures and histories as communities, provinces and one unified country.
While we can’t all agree on everything – or maybe even anything – all of the time, the notion of a unified country that can stand up to the threats we face from abroad and closer to home is more important now than it has been for a long, long time.
From environmental destruction and global warming to the housing crisis and the ever-rising cost of living, as well as the threats Canada and the rest of the world face from south of the border, we need to work together
to tackle our problems with our hearts and minds open to solutions from all sides of the political spectrum.
Too often, when we disagree on how to handle our problems, we entrench ourselves in the opinions we already hold, unwilling to discuss or even listen to anything that may challenge those opinions even a little.
Like many of our friends south of the border, our opinions must align with one political party or the other, and those political affiliations often get wrapped up with our sense of pride or even our identities. To challenge our beliefs is to challenge who we are as people.
But that doesn’t have to be the case.
Let’s admit it; we’re wrong about things, big and small, way more than we’re right, and that’s okay. Being wrong and making mistakes is the best way to learn the most important lessons in life, but to learn those
lessons, we need to acknowledge our own biases and those of the people who raised us, and be open to different ways of thinking and living.
We need to listen to people with lived experiences and those who understand the issues at play better than we do so we can continually challenge our opinions and entrenched beliefs and reshape them as new information comes to light.
To think we know it all now or at any point in our lives is a declaration that we are no longer interested in learning and growing as people or as a society.
And as a Canadian, that is not a national identity I will embrace. Whenever we as a country are confronted with something new, however terrible or hard to swallow it may be, we must face it head on, acknowledge our past mistakes, learn from them and move forward together toward a brighter and more equitable future for all.
Those who turn their heads and refuse to see what’s right in front of them or place the blame on people who think differently than they do will ultimately be left behind, bitter and angry at everyone but themselves.
So, on Canada Day and every day, as Canadians, let’s remember that we all want the same thing – the freedom to live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives – and work together to achieve that for all, not just a choice few.
Celebrating Canada Kid’s Crossword
MEET SHADOW
An eight-year-old sweetheart with a big personality and an even bigger heart! This lovable lady is the perfect mix of snuggly and playful, always ready for a cozy cuddle or a burst of fun. Shadow is currently enjoying life in a foster home, where she’s showing off her charm and purr-sonality. If you think she could be your perfect match, be sure to inquire ahead of time to arrange a meet and greet. Learn more about Shadow at kwpshumane.ca.
Township of East Zorra-Tavistock’s assets in good shape
Despite some confusion around its content, East Zorra-Tavistock’s (EZT) Asset Management Plan (AMP) has been approved by members of council.
An AMP is a document municipalities are required to prepare and maintain to guide the sustainable management of their assets over their lifecycle. It plans for the repair, replacement and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, bridges, water systems, wastewater systems, buildings and more. It also allocates resources by making evidence-based decisions and extends the life of assets while minimizing risks and costs. The province made AMPs mandatory in 2019.
CAO Karen DePrest assured council
the township’s assets are in excellent condition and when the next update is due in five years, a third-party consultant won’t be necessary.
“Our intention … is to do the next update ourselves. We won’t be hiring a consultant to do this. We think we have a better handle on the condition of our assets and our ability to use the data in the system to produce this kind of report.”
A few councillors admitted having difficulty in understanding the massive document, including Coun. Scott Rudy. He said he perused the report and noted it was very detailed, extensive and difficult to understand.
“I assume it was a consultant report and how they want to spin it. I’ll have to have another look at it, but there were some items that didn’t quite make sense
Beef farming thrives on South Easthope century farm
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
With the price of beef continuing to rise in local grocery stores, it’s encouraging to see a young family in South Easthope township raising high-quality local beef with deep roots in the community. Rob and Erin Faulhafer, along with their children, represent the fifth generation of their family to raise beef cattle on their historic farm in Perth County. The Faulhafers raise Simmental-cross calves from their herd of Simmental mothers on the lush pastures of their century homestead at Lot 34, Concession 3 on what was once known as Pork Street, now Perth Line 33 between
Tavistock and Stratford.
The farm’s history dates back to 1906 when Henry Faulhafer Sr. and his wife, Emma (Capling), purchased the property. Their son, John, took over the farm in 1920, raising three children with his wife, Christine. One of those children, Laurie, and his wife, Leta, purchased the farm in 1953 and continued the tradition. Rob’s father, Bob, later farmed the land before selling it to Rob and Erin, ensuring the legacy continues.
Farms like the Faulhafer’s are part of the rich agricultural fabric of South Easthope township where multi-generational family farms remain the backbone of local food production.
Optimist Club of Downie Inc.
OPTI-CASH CALENDAR DRAW
June 15 Ben Veldman, Embro $50 00
June 16 Robin Lewis, Stratford $50 00
June 17 Travis Wouters, St Pauls $50 00
June 18 Edna Black, St Marys $50 00
June 19 Richard Kennedy, St Marys $50 00
June 20 Darryl Dixon, Stratford $50 00
June 21 Josh McKay, St Marys $200 00
June 22 Andrea Milliken, Stratford $50 00
June 23 Ryan Sager, St Marys $50 00
June 24 Dale Simpson, St Marys $50 00
June 25 Tom Kittmer, Embro $50 00
June 26 Adrian Bossors, Stratford $50 00
June 27 Dan Dunsmore, Stratford . . . . . . $50 .00
June 28 Rich De Wetering, Stratford $200 00
where it implied perhaps furnishings in this building were to be (replaced) sooner than I would have expected. I can’t tell you the exact detail yet, but I’ll work on it.”
DePrest assured council the township would not be replacing items such as the technology installed in council chambers any time soon.
Deputy mayor Brad Smith also had difficulty getting through the entire 270page report, but understood the township is on solid ground when it comes to its assets.
“I’m with Coun. Rudy on this. This was a daunting document to go through. I got through the first 50 pages and got cross-eyed. We are in good shape in this township as far as our assets. We’ve maintained our assets and we are putting
money away for our assets so we don’t end up in a situation other municipalities have found themselves in.”
Coun. Scott Zehr asked about the history of the document and if this was the township’s first time implementing it.
DePrest said it dates back to 2019 when she first arrived in EZT.
“We didn’t have a tangible capital asset policy that was actually a required document we should have had. We put one in place immediately … and have done an update to the policy in 2022 or 2023.”
Zehr added he appreciates the work staff have put into the plan.
“I think it’s a great tool and will hopefully help future councils and staff to do a great job with managing our assets and everything that is part of our township.”
The Faulhafer farm has been in the family since 1906, when Henry and Emma Faulhafer first purchased the land. Rob and Erin Faulhafer are now the fifth generation to continue farming on the property.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Families enjoyed a day of old-fashioned fun at Brocksden Country School Museum
Laughter filled the air on Saturday, June 21, as families gathered at the Brocksden Country School Museum for the Teddy Bear’s Picnic.
The historic school playground was filled with excitement as children arrived, carrying their favourite teddy bears, ready for a day of fun inspired by the beloved song “The Teddy Bear’s Picnic.”
Organized by the mother-daughter team of Jessie and Ester Campbell, the picnic delivered a delightful lineup of activities. Children enjoyed bubble blowing, face painting and a scavenger hunt that showcased the unique history of the school. Every participant received a teddy bear for completing the scavenger hunt. The teddy bears were generously donated by Value Village in Stratford.
One of the day’s highlights was Grandma’s Storytime, where Pat Campbell, local grandmother and mother of board chair Scott Campbell, brought generations together, captivating children with heartwarming tales.
A brief shower sent visitors rushing indoors. They joked that they had heard the bell and that class was in session. Once inside, visitors also had the chance to step back in time as they toured the schoolhouse museum, where they met a costumed schoolteacher and experienced what a classroom was like over a century ago. Guests tried their hand at writing on slates and got a glimpse into the daily lives of students from the early 1900s.
Many people who had visited Brocksden as children enjoyed reminiscing by flipping through photo albums to find their class pictures from those trips.
“I was able to show my boys the photo of my Grade 3 class when we visited Brocksden School,” Mackenzie Lapointe said.
The Teddy Bear’s Picnic was more than just a fun outing, it was a celebration of community and tradition. With an enthusiastic response from attendees, the event is sure to become an annual one.
A variety of events are planned throughout the summer
at Brocksden. On July 12, an All Classes Reunion will welcome anyone who attended Brocksden as a child. Hymn Sings will take place on the last Saturday evenings of July and August at 7 p.m. On July 18, visitors can enjoy an Old Tyme Toy Talk, and on Aug. 9, explore the history of Beatrix Potter and listen to a reading of her work. For more information, contact Jessie Campbell at brocksdenschool@gmail.com or call 519-271-2619.
Sophia Gallagher, six, reaches new heights on stilts while mom, Nicole, assists and sister, Sydney, two, watches.
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
(MACKENZIE LAPOINTE PHOTOS)
John Deweerd, 10, and his cousin, Calvin Zein, three, having some old-fashioned fun on the seesaw.
Volunteer storyteller Pat Campbell reads to Frankie, six, and Nixon Thibeault, eight, during Grandma’s Storytime.
Catalina Rodriguez, four, gets her face painted.
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Jamie Boyd Fastball Tournament brings highenergy action to Tavistock
The Jamie Boyd Memorial Fastball Tournament brought excitement and energy to Tavistock this past weekend as teams battled it out over two and a half scorching days of competition.
In Sunday’s championship final, the P.D.P. Lightning – representing Plattsville, Drumbo and Princeton – defeated St. George 10-2 to capture the Jamie Boyd Memorial Trophy.
Tavistock’s own Dennis Roth worked tirelessly behind the plate as umpire throughout the tournament, even in the sweltering heat. In one of the weekend matchups, P.D.P. centre fielder Carter
Martin of Innerkip was seen waiting for a pitch from Merchants pitcher Keaton Bartlett (#44), with catcher Dylan West (#9) calling the signs.
Martin later sprinted to first base after a solid hit, helping to lead his team to victory.
After the final game, Jamie Boyd’s wife, Tracey, and son, Ty, presented the memorial trophy to the champions. P.D.P. head coach Marc Demerest, who accepted on behalf of the team, reflected on his connection to the tournament’s namesake.
“I used to play with Ty’s father, Jamie,” Demerest said. “He was one hell of a guy and one of the greatest fastball players of his time.”
Wilmot U15 girls open season strong in Mississauga tournament
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Wilmot U15 select girls fast-pitch softball team kicked off their season with an impressive showing at the Mississauga Lady Jays U15 Select Tournament, held June 14 and 15.
Facing tough competition from the host Mississauga Lady Jays, the Ancaster Angels and the Richmond Hill Rebels, the Wilmot squad finished the weekend with a solid 2-1 record, placing fifth overall.
Despite being their first tournament of the year, the girls showed strong chemistry and determination at the plate and in the field – so much so that one of their bats even broke during a big hit.
Three Wilmot players were singled out with MVP honours for their performances at pitcher, shortstop and catcher, underscoring the team’s well-rounded effort throughout the weekend.
Coaches and parents alike were proud of the team’s start and say the girls are looking forward to their next tournament as they continue to build momentum toward the provincial championships later this season.
P.D.P. Lightning’s Carter Martin (#77) waits for a pitch from Merchants’ Keaton Bartlett (#44), while catcher Dylan West (#9) calls the game behind the plate. Umpire Dennis Roth of Tavistock officiated through the heat all weekend.
The P.D.P. Lightning celebrate their championship win after defeating St. George 10-2 to capture the Jamie Boyd Memorial Trophy. In the front row from left are Kaden Eichler, Carter Martin, Felix Isert-Bender, Sam Diamond and Trent Agnello. In the back row from left are Brett Vandendool, Cohen Christner, Sean Demerest, Jared Vosper, Matthew Meyer, Jackson Greig and Jake Durrer. Coaches not pictured are Marc Demerest and Tom Diamond.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Carter Martin sprints to first base after a well-hit ball during tournament action.
Wilmot’s U15 girls finished fifth at the Mississauga Lady Jays Select Tournament June 14-15, earning three MVP awards and making a strong first impression to open their season. Pictured are Shawn Bonnick (coach), Morgan Kraemer, Miranda Whiting, Myla Lewis, Alison Bardwell, Kinsley Bonnick, Lilly Lloyd-Klooster, Alexis Hergott, Paul Arsenault (assistant coach), Zoe Sanche, Sophie Arsenault, Kaylee Aldridge and Averie Brooker.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF SHAWN BONNICK)
Tavistock firefighters serve up another successful chicken barbecue
Tavistock’s annual lineup of summer fundraisers wouldn’t be complete without the fire department’s popular drivethrough chicken barbecue.
Held during the Crokinole Championship weekend, the event drew more than 500 hungry supporters to the fire hall on the west side of town, where firefighters served up mouthwatering chicken meals hot off the grill.
Fire Chief Chris Roth, along with 18 fulltime and two auxiliary firefighters, worked quickly and efficiently to keep meals moving through the drive-through, all while raising funds for firefighter training.
The chicken – locally raised and supplied by Tavistock poultry farmer Paul Brenneman – was grilled to perfection using his signature barbecue sauce recipe, a closely guarded secret that keeps diners coming back year after year.
Organizers thanked everyone who purchased a ticket for their continued support and are already looking ahead to their next fundraiser, the annual Labour Day weekend boot drive in support of Muscular Dystrophy Canada, happening Aug. 29.
Let’s
Inside the hall, firefighters had all hands on deck to serve the steady stream of local supporters.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Tavistock firefighters grill up more than 500 chicken dinners during their popular annual drive-through barbecue at the fire station.
St. Marys Independent The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Sun STRATFORD T ME The Paris Independent
Choose salmon for your next backyard barbecue
OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold HEAPS
Backyard barbecue season is in full swing, and between burgers and steak, there’s a pile of protein on everyone’s plate. Fish is often forgotten but certainly a firstclass choice at your summer cookout, especially when it’s fresh caught from a fun-filled day on the lake. The next best choice is store-bought wild fish but never farmed.
Let’s put the spotlight on fresh and fabulous, nutrient-dense wild Pacific salmon. The superstars that top my menu-planning list are Chinook or “King” salmon and Sockeye salmon. In just 3.5 ounces or 100 grams, there is 25 grams of precious protein, the perfect plateful for building and repairing muscle plus powerful protection against muscle loss associated with aging.
Salmon can vary in outward appearance but no matter the hue, whether pale pink or ruby red and all shades in-between, the fantastic flesh is packed with omega-3 fatty acids better known as EPA and DHA. These essential fats must be obtained from the diet as the body can’t produce them. For optimal health, serve salmon twice a week. Fish is one of the tastiest ways to naturally support blood pressure and lower your risk of heart disease as well as inflammation throughout the body.
There is mounting evidence linking omega-3 fatty acids to overall brain health, from the development in the formative years to improving memory. Cognitive is crucial to avoid dementia and Alzheimer’s. Eating a diet rich in omegas from fatty, cold-water fish is also an awesome way to alleviate anxiety and dimmish depression naturally.
The brain-boosting and blood-producing vitamin B12 is bountiful as well. Salmon contains 127 per cent of the required daily allowance and 56 per cent of vitamin B6. Fun fact; Did you know wild salmon contains more potassium than the equivalent serving of banana?
Salmon is stocked full of selenium, a key mineral lost in the vast majority of vegetables due to modern-day over-farming. Selenium is crucial for thyroid function, DNA synthesis and reproductive health. Salmon is a super-stocked source of the magical mineral, containing 85 per cent of the daily requirement.
Strong bones require vitamin D, often referred to as the sunshine vitamin and salmon is a superior source. Don’t forget vitamin D is a magnificent mood booster.
It’s all about the astaxanthin,
(VECTEEZY
the all-star antioxidant giving salmon its ravishing, rich redpink hue. Look to salmon as a wonderous way to help lower LDL or “lousy” cholesterol, and maintain a youthful glow. One review tied the antioxidant astaxanthin to skin-damage prevention. Astaxanthin may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and even protect cells against damage.
Don’t forget to eat the salmon skin. It’s especially high in omega-3s and a super source of collagen. Collagen is the secret to supple skin and joint health. Guess what’s on this nutritionist’s menu tonight? Wild-caught, grilled salmon with a squeeze of vitamin C lemon love.
Wilmot Council approves roof replacement for St. Agatha Community Centre
Wilmot Township has approved the construction of a new flat roof for the St. Agatha Community Centre in the 2025 budget.
Council awarded the contract to Smith-Peat Roofing and Sheet Metal Ltd. at Monday night’s meeting.
Now before you run to the fish market, there’s a key point that must be followed. Please forget farmed. Keep in mind most farmed salmon is from the Atlantic Ocean. The reams of health risks associated with farmed fish are too many to ignore. Firstly, farmed fish are kept in overcrowded pens. Parasites and lice are common, therefore requiring antibiotics and neurotoxic pesticides to rid the fish. DNA mutations and physical deformities are becoming normal in farmed fish. Salmon are fed a diet of GMO corn and soy meal which is completely unnatural. You are ingesting their diet, too. Due to the lack of krill in their diet for starters, their flesh is grey. To achieve the appealing orange
color consumers are accustomed to, petroleum-derived synthetic dyes are added to the salmons’ already disastrous diet.
Yes, wild fish may contain pollutants, but there’s 16 times more PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl), a type of persistent organic pollutant or POP in farmed. The use of POP’s is linked to type-2 diabetes and obesity, and heaps of other health concerns. Farmed salmon contains unhealthy fats, more calories and is lower in nutrients. Forget farmed, rent a canoe and fish or choose wild.
Not convinced? Take the time to watch documentaries, YouTube and read. Stop eating farmed! Eat wild salmon, the way Mother Nature intended.
“This investment reflects council’s commitment to projects that align with the township’s strategic plan, including the goal to maintain, and where fiscally responsible, expand access to healthy living and recreation opportunities for all residents,” said a Wilmot press release.
“This is another example of our council taking action to preserve and improve important community assets,” added Mayor Natasha Salonen in that press release. “We are committed to responsible investment in recreation infrastructure that meets the needs of our residents today and in the future.”
The approval follows last week’s announcement of $379,650 in funding from the provincial government to support critical repairs to the refrigeration unit at the Wilmot Recreation Complex arena.
“Together, these projects underscore the township’s dedication to maintaining and upgrading our facility infrastructure to ensure many more years of use for our community,” Salonen said. WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE
PHOTOS)
When it comes to salmon, wild wins every time. Rich in colour, nutrients and healthy fats, wild Pacific salmon stands in stark contrast to pale, lower-nutrient farmed salmon. Choose wild for better health—and better flavour!
High praise for a superb new restaurant in Winnipeg
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
I’m often amused by reports concerning the latest travel trends. The BBC recently reported on new trends including “sleep tourism” and “noctourism.” Sleep tourism involves travelling to find great places to get a good sleep; noctourism is travelling to find great nighttime activities.
One fairly recent trend that does push my buttons is culinary tourism. I meet many people whose travel plans start with their appetites. They identify dining experiences they want to enjoy and build their itineraries out from there.
In Winnipeg last week (yes, I have been spending a lot of wonderful time in western Canada), I had the pleasure of dining at a brand new, unique, brilliant little restaurant called shirley’s. It’s owned and operated by a terrific young chef, Renée Girard. Girard has been named one of the country’s next top chefs by the Globe & Mail.
The restaurant just opened in March 2025 and is already so popular that reservations are absolutely essential. The exception to that is the first-come, first-served seats at the bar – and when we were there, folks without reservations had lined up more than half
an hour before opening at 5 p.m. to guarantee they could be seated.
The warmer months will add a few seats to the 35 inside on a beautiful backyard patio.
I loved the place, but just to be sure my judgement was not being overruled by my heart, I checked out some reviews.
“Shirley’s is surely a most delightful dining experience in the (Osborne) Village.”
“We had a really great experience.”
“I will definitely be going back.”
“If you’re one to personify a restaurant to be your new best friend, let me introduce you to shirley’s.”
Chef Girard’s menus are not multi-page creations. The food is on one sheet; wine (no American wines, by the way) on a second and cocktails designed by Christian Lepp on a third.
But while dinner choices total only 12 (including apps and mains), I could happily dine off that menu for days and days because everything Girard creates is amazing. To again quote an impartial review, “the dishes are a continuous delight.”
We shared an enormous basket of delicious, hand-cut fries with
a smoked mussel aioli, a lamb sausage and a pesto cream pappardelle. The sausage was served on a bed of braised lentils, fennel, roasted tomato and Castelvetrano olives. Honestly, if they had forgotten the sausage – which was delicious – I would have been happy with the rest. It was so good. And we agreed the pappardelle may have been the tastiest pasta ever! Dessert was a trifecta of rich scoops of spumoni.
Girard named the place “shirley’s” for a very good reason –Shirley was her grandmother and the place is dedicated to her memory. The simple sign on the door is a copy of Shirley’s signature – albeit without the initial capital letter.
And now it is time for a confession that I might not be entirely unbiased – which is why I sought out those other, impartial reviews – because Shirley was my birth mother.
I knew little or nothing about Shirley until a very few years ago when I began a search for my birth family. That quest has thoroughly enriched my life in recent years because although Shirley passed away in 2013 – and thus, I did not get to meet her – she had seven children after me, all shared with the man she married about four years after my highly secretive birth.
I have now spent joyous time with all seven. Four live in the Winnipeg area and last week, the last brother to meet me in person drove from Calgary to join the family gathering, while two cousins flew in from Vancouver.
So, Girard is my niece; we stayed with her folks – my sister
Janet and her husband Danny. And with them as extremely proud hosts, we dined at shirley’s.
There was a very poignant moment when I realized that, behind the bar, there is a framed picture of Shirley surrounded by flowers and candles, a memorial that Girard renews each day.
Okay, this has become very serious. So, I will share one anecdote I learned on this trip. The truth is, Shirley was not necessarily a very good cook, even though she has inspired her granddaughter to great culinary achievements. Shirley disliked spices; she specialized in bland. To be fair, she apparently was a much better baker than cook. At one point, Janet and Danny did some catering and Shirley helped out. She made soup, but when her family secretly sampled
it, they all agreed that it could not be served without some significant alteration. So, they surreptitiously added a lot of spices to the soup, which then sat overnight before it was served. When Shirley tasted it the next day, her comment was, “I told you that food improves a lot if you just let it sit awhile!” They never told her the truth. But I can guarantee that if you make shirley’s a stop on any trip to Winnipeg, you won’t be letting any of the food sit awhile. It’s way too good for that, no extra spices needed.
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)
Chef Renée Girard opened “shirley’s” in Winnipeg in March of this year, to great reviews.
A memorial to Renée’s grandmother, Shirley, for whom the restaurant is named.
Renée preserves a wide variety of pickles; one of the most popular items on the menu is the multi-faceted “pickle plate”.
Reservations are essential, except at the 10-seat bar; patrons line up for more than half an hour to guarantee a place.
Dusty roads and thirsty throats
VINTAGE VIEWS
By Tim Mosher Tavistock and District Historical Society
Last week’s article showed an 1895 photo of the Commercial Hotel at the main intersection in Tavistock and this week is an excellent indoor photo of its well-stocked bar, owner and two employees in a setting that would be the envy of a Hollywood film with an old-time bar-room scene.
The ornate cash register has a plate above the keys with “Tavistock” on it and on the very top it says, “This Registers the amount of your Purchase.” Beer and whiskey seem to dominate the drink selection or coffee could be had from the large urn on the left.
Four decorative pistols hang from the mirror and three draught beer-tap handles are in front of barman Loth.
The three natty men are clearly posing for the photographer who used natural light to illuminate this ornate setting, but Mr. Evans didn’t follow instructions to “hold still” as his face is slightly blurred. Indoor-exposure times were very long by today’s standards (one-eighth of a second versus 1/250th), which is also why people posing for photos during the first century of photography usually aren’t smiling because to hold a smile for a photo very often results in a stiff, wooden look. Today’s fast shutter speeds allow for more spontaneous, natural expressions and stop-action movements.
The original Commercial Hotel building was Georgian style, so it looked very similar to Fryfogel Inn east of Shakespeare but with big porches. Mr. Jung kept the main
building that stretched east and west (Hope Street today) and added the north-south part (Woodstock Street today), plus a third floor in 1896. This is why the window shapes don’t match on the lower two floors in last week’s photo. Jung was an enterprising businessman who recognized the value of a good location as his hotel was at the centre of the village and only a moment’s walk to the train station immediately north of it.
The late Carl Seltzer’s Fact & Fantasy (a local history book published in 1967 by the Tavistock Rotary Club) has a good description of the Commercial’s facilities (page 153) in 1898 when John Landreth purchased the property for $13,500 from Mr. Jung.
“His premises are well equipped having hot-water heating, a private water system. For the commercial trade he has three large sample rooms thoroughly equipped. There are forty-three bedrooms in the house, and the dining-room seats fifty guests. The bar is most elaborate.”
The Commercial’s heyday passed when prohibition became law in Ontario from 1916-1927 greatly limiting the sale of all alcohol. By 1932, the hotel lost its third floor and part of the first and second floors were removed. The remainder was turned into a gas station and lunchroom. In 1945, Wally Schaefer bought the property, lived on the second floor with his young family, retired and sold the property in 1973. Three years later, Dave Jutzi Sr. purchased the property and in 1986, what remained of the grand old structure was demolished to make way for a three-shop plaza and gas station, as it is today.
Mayor Phil Schaefer is Wally Schaefer’s son. He grew up on this property and recuperated the liquor cabinet that’s on the left in the photo during the demolition, refurbished it and it now graces his home as a China cabinet. As well, he acquired a key from
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Disappointment after Wilmot council fails to take a stand against Bill 5
Dear Editor,
Wilmot Council had the chance to take a stand against Bill 5 as many other municipalities in the province have done.
Coun. Martin introduced a motion at the council meeting on June 23 opposing Bill 5. It was supported in a delegation by a member of the Nith Valley EcoBoosters. The motion addressed the many problems with the bill including reducing protections for the environment and endangered species, overriding the control that municipalities have over planning in their own jurisdictions, and threatening the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
After Coun. Sidhu commented that, since the bill has already been passed, supporting the motion would only be a symbolic gesture, Coun. Cressman responded that at some point it is important
the old establishment. The small metal pendant that’s attached to it says “Comm. Hotel Room 14 O.J.”
Otto Jung speaks to us from the past.
Last week’s History Mystery question was: What were the three colours of the Commercial Hotel’s flag? Despite the photo being black and white, the period of time when the picture was taken and the country of origin of the owner as noted in the write-up tells of the colours. Phil Schaefer of Tavistock answered this correctly: black, red and white. These were the colours of the German flag from 1867-1918; the photo of the Commercial Hotel was taken in the mid-1890s. The current colours, black,
red and yellow, were adopted in 1949. Curiously, in 1977 I printed a photo from the glass negative and noted that a large but difficult-to-read “Commercial” was printed on the middle fess (stripe).
This week’s History Mystery is more subjective than past questions. The question is: What is a hint in this picture that might lead someone to think that the barmen had a sense of humour but in fact is not intended as humour at all? This question is open to all ages. The first reader to send the correct answer to me at tim_mosher@hotmail.com will have their name and community or rural route number published in the next edition.
to take a stand. In this case, the stand is for the right of the municipality to have autonomy over decisions affecting the community it serves.
Coun. Sidhu obviously does not remember that Premier Ford responded to public pressure regarding changes to the Greenbelt after Bill 23 passed. If there are enough so-called “symbolic gestures,” changes can result. Hopefully that will be the case with Bill 5 but there will be no thanks to Wilmot council since only two of the four councillors present voted for the motion and the mayor then declared the motion defeated.
Dorothy Wilson, New Hamburg
The Commercial Hotel’s bar with Otto Jung, the proprietor, on the left, and barmen Ezra Loth and John Evans on the right. Mr. Jung’s portrait hangs high over the horns in the top, centre.
(PHOTOGRAPHER UNKNOWN, LEMP STUDIO COLLECTION #0189)
Opinion: Canadians standing together? Oh, yes we can
LOREENA MCKENNITT Submitted
This falls under the category of something we never thought we’d see in our lifetime.
On June 19, The Toronto Star reported that the leaders of the English-rights advocate group Talq in Quebec and the very nationalistic Mouvement national des Québécoises et Québécois (MNQ), who have been at odds with each other for decades, have now found common ground in understanding what the biggest threat to French in Quebec might be. And it’s not what you think.
“The English-speaking community of Quebec is not in itself an existential threat to Quebec,” says the MNQ, but rather “the powerful magnet of American culture” as expressed in film, music and social networks. “We must not make Englishspeaking Québécois the convenient scapegoat of this difficult problem,” they declared.
For many Canadians, this is a stunning and refreshing turn of events. Perhaps it’s even a call to arms for all Canadians to set aside our regional and cultural differences and look more deeply into their origin, but most importantly find ways to stand together, especially in this consequential
time in our history.
There’s no question decades of consumption of American media has not only entertained us, it has shaped our thinking and our values. It may be time to move on.
Most recently, the untested social media products of unregulated tech companies, bad actors and unqualified influencers have been allowed to distort perspectives of ourselves and pit us against each other, all while reaping massive fortunes via the algorithms designed to artificially feed our discontent. Unregulated AI, as it pursues our creative work, jobs and businesses is just the next chapter. Hopefully, this new government and the Ministry of AI will be
able to establish the protections Canadians deserve.
But the path forward for Canadians must be paved with the will to set aside our biases. We must sincerely open our hearts and minds to the concerns of ‘the other,’ to study them and truly listen. If the French and Anglos can do this in Quebec, so can the Westerners and Easterners, the fossil fuel companies and Indigenous peoples. As world events create an ever-increasing state of insecurity, we as Canadians are blessed with a bounty of riches: a diverse population, our environment and natural resources, our technical and cultural prowess and a strong appreciation for our fragile democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
During this hinge moment, as our prime minister reminds us, we must come together. Yes, we must move swiftly, but not so fast that we break the important things. We must take the time to identify what is of highest value and recognize those things we can do without – for the sake of the nation.
We know there’s finite money, time and natural resources. We know, as a species, we rely upon the wellbeing of the planet and that how land is used and how the environment is protected needs to be a high priority.
We can be resourceful in our solutions and yet we must be prepared to compromise in thoughtful ways and sometimes do without, to sacrifice.
This Canada Day, it’s time for Canadians to come together and ask what they can do for the nation, as generations have done before us.
Can Canadians stand together? Yes, most certainly we can. Just watch us. Loreena McKennitt is an international, multi-platinum recording artist, a member of The Order of Canada, the former Honorary Colonel of the Royal Canadian Air Force and founder of Wise Communities.
Internationally renowned recording artist and Order of Canada recipient Loreena McKennitt calls on Canadians to stand together in unity this Canada Day, urging reflection, compromise, and collective action in a time of global and national change.
(WIKIMEDIA COMMONS PHOTO)
Perth East couple shares their journey with embryo adoption
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
For Jessie and Scott Campbell, the birth of their seventh child, Mark, was quite unlike that of any of their other children.
Nearly three years ago, the Perth East couple, who live on a large poultry farm northwest of Shakespeare with their children, knew they wanted to add one more member to their family. The challenge, however, was Jessie Campbell was 49 at the time, and she and her husband realized they would need to seek an alternative method for conception.
“We had six children, we were very blessed, and then the children stopped coming, which was fine,” Scott Campbell said. “We really felt called to have more children and we did some research into in vitro fertilization, and it really wasn’t for us. It was a little bit too much like playing God. We didn’t like it very much. So, then we thought we were done … and then one of the people at our church, they had a pair of twins and they were very open about how they adopted these embryos.”
Embryo adoption is a process through which frozen embryos from in vitro fertilization (IVF) are donated to another couple. Not only does this method give genetic parents, who may not wish to use all of their embryos, the option to give them a chance for birth, it also allows the adoptive mother to carry her genetically
unrelated child and experience pregnancy and delivery.
“It was the same process as in vitro fertilization, except these are the leftovers that get put in the freezer or destroyed,” Scott Campbell said. “We believe that when you create life, it’s life. So, we’re looking at these freezers full (of embryos); it was a completely different experience than we had when we were learning about in vitro fertilization. … It’s like running to an orphanage and saying, ‘We’ll help.’ ”
As part of IVF, doctors create as many viable embryos as possible, after which they select the most viable to give a couple the best chance at conception. According to Jessie Campbell, Mark’s biological
78TH ANNUAL FIELD DAY & FISH FRY SATURDAY JUNE 14TH, 2025
THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS
Optimist Club of Shakespeare
KYJO Steel Inc.
- Kent & Heather Johnston
Adams Building Supply
Hyde Construction Limited
Joe Bell Trucking Inc.
Bruce Kropf Forestry
Westlandyn Egg Farms
Tridon Group
Linton Window & Door Corp.
All Shores Fencing & Deck
Bulk Tech Shakespeare
Dordan Mechanical Inc.
Fred Schuler Family
Jake Hovius Excavating
Jordon Bowles Professional Corporation
MTE Consultants
MTH Contracting & Consulting Ltd.
- Paul Bender
Paul & Heidi Dietrich Family
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South Easthope Mutual Insurance
Company
Steeplehigh Farms
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Reis Construction Ltd.
The Shakespeare Men's Club
Rob & Linda Danen and Family (Danen Dale Holsteins)
Berger Plumbing
Dalaine Farms - The Leis Family
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Michael Wilhelm Excavating Ltd.
Perry Wilhelm Excavating Ltd.
Shakespeare Mills Inc. (S.M.I.) - Jeff Sparling
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Shakespeare Brewing Company
Shakespeare Variety
- Sand Pebbles Corporation
Stratford Motor Products
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Black Swan Brewing Company
Chris & Janice Danen and Family (DaneHolm Holsteins)
Royal Bank of Canada
parents created 13 embryos and took two for themselves.
Once IVF is successful, the couple has the option to either destroy the remaining embryos, pay an annual storage fee to keep them in a cryogenic freezer, donate them to science, or give them up for adoption.
Adoptive parents, meanwhile, have two options for the process. They can embark on an open adoption, through which they can meet and interview biological parents and can decide if they want them to be in their child’s life after they’re born. Alternatively, they can undertake a closed adoption, meaning they and their child will have no contact with the biological parents – the route the Campbells chose.
Ultimately, Scott and Jessie Campbell selected two embryos – one was Mark, now almost two years old, and the other, Mark’s sibling, was not viable. They learned, however, that there are five other embryos up for adoption that are in Mark’s sibling group. While the Campbells, now in their 50s, are no longer interested in having more children, they are urging anyone who may be interested in embryo adoption to consider trying to bring Mark’s siblings into the world.
“The (normal) adoption process can be very lengthy and expensive, so this is just another option for people who want to expand their family,” Jessie Campbell said. “The reason why we’ve become so vocal is because when they put the embryos up for adoption, we got Mark and his sibling. Mark was viable; his sibling wasn’t. And then I just happened to ask the clinic if there are any more from that group, and there’s five more siblings. … I want people to know this is an option because, quite often, the embryos are just destroyed because people don’t want to pay the storage fee anymore.”
While the Campbells have become staunch advocates for embryo adoption as a way to preserve life in its earliest stages – driven primarily by their religious and ethical beliefs – they say the process has many other benefits for prospective parents.
According to a spokesperson from the New Life Fertility Centre in Mississauga, the centre that guided and cared for the Campbells through their embryo-adoption journey, the process can give hope to couples who aren’t able to conceive through
other methods.
Embryo adoption can be an alternative for couples with infertility challenges who can produce viable eggs or sperm; it can improve the chances for success after multiple IVF failures; and it can provide a path to parenthood for people who can’t conceive naturally like single parents or samesex couples.
“Embryo donation is often more affordable than separate egg or sperm donation combined with IVF, since egg retrieval and donor screening can be expensive,” the spokesperson added.
According to the Campbells after they looked into both embryo adoption and IVF, embryo adoption can cost as little as one-tenth what IVF costs, depending on the circumstances.
At age 49, Jessie Campbell said Mark’s birth was one of the smoothest she’s experienced, something she credits to her and her family’s choice to eliminate all processed foods from their diets nearly a decade ago.
Now, Jessie and Scott Campbell are the proud parents of Mark. After he was born, Mark, whose biological parents are of Mexican heritage, was gleefully accepted into the family by his other siblings – who range in age from 10 to 18 – all of whom help their parents look after the little guy amid life on the farm.
Scott and Jessie Campbell say they will explain to Mark how he came into the world through embryo adoption once he is old enough to understand. While he is a Campbell and will be raised as such in rural Perth County, they will leave it up to Mark to explore his Mexican heritage, should he choose to do that when he grows up.
For their part, Scott and Jessie Campbell will continue to explain the process of embryo adoption to anyone who is curious about Mark or interested in learning more.
Scott and Jessie Campbell (left) with all seven of their children.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF JESSIE CAMPBELL)
Jessie Campbell and her son, Mark, who was brought into the world through embryo adoption.
Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth names new board of directors for 2025-2026
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth (HSKWSP) recently held its annual general meeting (AGM) where they announced the 20252026 board of directors, including two new board members.
Angela Watkins named as a director: Watkins has supported the growth of tech start-ups and led large-scale workplace transformations, grounded in operational excellence and intentional culture design. She proudly developed Catalyst Commons as a dog-friendly co-working space. Watkins is dedicated to fostering environments where people and pets thrive together.
MONDAY, JUNE 30
Food Trucks at Grace United Church. Tavistock
4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Wild Boar, Berlin95, Los Rolling Tacos, Moreish Ice Cream. Proceeds go to Agricultural Society
TUESDAY, JULY 1
Wilmot Canada Day
Kristina Tubbs named as a director: Tubbs is an assurance partner at Ernst & Young LLP, serving financial services clients from the Waterloo office. A longtime resident of the region, she combines her professional expertise with a passion for animals. A former KW Humane Society board member, Tubbs is excited to return.
Mark Fox will serve another term as board chair, guiding the organization with commitment and collaboration.
“It’s a privilege to serve as board chair and support the important work at the Humane Society,” Fox said in a press release. “We are excited to welcome Angela and Kristina to our team, both bringing passion for animal welfare and extensive professional experience. With such
a dedicated and skilled Board, I’m confident we’ll continue to make a meaningful impact for both pets and people in our communities.”
Making up the remainder of the board includes vice chair Nickola Voegelin, treasurer Rob Grein, secretary Angela Woods and directors Michael Banham, Carleen Carroll, Andrea Roth, Nathan Riedel and Lucinda Wallace.
At the AGM, HSKWSP also celebrated the achievements outlined in its 2024 annual report, which highlighted:
• 8,675 pets assisted through the Pet Pantry program
• $30,000+ in free services was provided to marginalized community members
at onsite clinics
These milestones reflect the growing success of the Better Together Capital Campaign, which focuses on strengthening the bond between people and pets while expanding access to essential services across the region.
“We’re grateful to have such a strong group of leaders on our board,” said Victoria Baby, CEO of HSKWSP, in a press release. “With their guidance and support, we look forward to all we can accomplish together, especially through initiatives like the Better Together Capital Campaign, to ensure pets and people continue to thrive in our communities.”
SUNDAY, JULY 6
Hymn Sing 6:30 p.m.
Oasis Mennonite Church is holding a hymn sing. Bring your own chair. Contact: Merle Burkholder 807-737-9215 or merleburkholder@gmail.com
Sir Adam Beck Community Park, Baden
MONDAY, JULY 7
Indigenous Sunrise Ceremony starts at 7:00 a.m. Canada Day events at 1 p.m. with Opening Ceremonies
251 Jacob St, New Hamburg, ON
WEDNESDAY, JULY 2
East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting
9:00 a.m.
Council chambers 89 Loveys Street East, Hickson
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Crystal’s Fries, El Milagro, Pablas Street of India, Moreish Ice Cream Donations to Tavistock Medical Clinic 116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
TUESDAY, JULY 8
Wellesley Council meeting 6:45 p.m.
• 5,682 medical procedures performed
To view full board bios or learn more about the HSKWSP’s programs and services, visit kwsphumane.ca.
MONDAY, JULY 14
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Berlin 95, Ish n Chips, Fo’Cheezy Donations to Camp Bimini
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
Wilmot Special Council meeting
6-9 p.m.
Council chambers
60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
TUESDAY, JULY 15
Perth East council meeting
7 p.m.
Council chambers
25 Mill Street East, Milverton
Wilmot Special Council meeting
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Council chambers
Tuesday prior at 3 p.m.
Contact: thewtgazette@gmail.com
MONDAY, JULY 21
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
S.W.A.T, El Milagro, Serial Grillers, Beavertails
Donations to Maples Retirement Home Family Council
116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
MONDAY, JULY 28
Food Trucks at Grace United Church
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Born2Eat, Wild Boar, Los Rolling Tacos Donations to Grace United Church 116 Woodstock St S, Tavistock
Wilmot Council meeting 7-11 p.m.
Council chambers
60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
CLASSIFIED ADS —
FOR SALE
Antique Lighting and Lots of Antique Lighting parts. Very Reasonable 519-302-0588 New Hamburg
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)
PRAYER TO ST. JUDE
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us; St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us; St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer nine times a day, by the eighth day this prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. S.F.
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.
New Hamburg
Thrift Centre, Short Stop, Sobeys, Office Pro, No Frills, Mario's Chicken, Library, McDonalds, Tim Hortons, Nith Valley Butcher, The Whining Tree, Town Square Pharmasave, Heart'n Home Creations, Cook's Pharmacy, Great Canadian Dollar, Wilmot Recreation Centre, Pizza Arca, Old Country Restaurant, Cloverleaf Leaf Farms Tavistock
Double D's Restaurant, D&D Homestyle Cuisine, Tim Hortons, Hasty Market, Sam's Independent Quehl's Restaurant, IDA Pharmacy, Shell Gas, Library, Tavistock Arena, Scotia Bank
Baden
Tim Hortons, Circle K, Subway, Mars Variety, Baden Coffee Company, Pharmacy in Baden Plaza New Dundee New Dundee Village Market
Wellesley
Pym's, Schmidt's Bulk Pantry, Cook's Pharmacy Schmidtsville Restaurant, Wellesley Service
