Citizens for Safe Ground Water (CSGW) is raising concerns over what it calls a deteriorating water-security crisis in Wilmot Township.
“As residents face unprecedented water loss and sediment intrusion, CSGW is challenging the Region of Waterloo’s ‘individual-only’ investigation process, labelling it a breakdown in transparency and scientific integrity,” said a press release from the group.
The dispute, according to CWGW president Samantha Lernout, centres on the handling of private well owners’ interference concerns near municipal wells in the Wilmot wellfield.
A Stratford production company is once again shining a spotlight on the people behind Waterloo Region’s agricultural industry with the third season of Farm
Produced by Stratford-based Ballinran
Entertainment and directed by co-producer Julian Wierzbicki, the television series follows Bruce Hotel chef Nick Benninger as he visits farms and agricultural businesses throughout Waterloo Region, exploring not only where food comes from, but the people and stories behind it. Executive producer Craig Thompson said the show’s success comes
from its focus on the human side of farming at a time when more Canadians are thinking carefully about food, its origins and the people producing it.
“Very few people tell the story from the farmer’s perspective,” Thompson said. “It gives the viewer a better understanding of some of the pressures and
“Despite 31 identified water-interference-related issues, regional staff have moved to prematurely close files by attributing issues to private mechanical failures, such as pressure tanks, often without ever establishing a proper hydrogeological baseline.”
Lernout explained most of the affected wells are located on Witmer Road, where she
GALEN SIMMONS
Serving New Hamburg, Tavistock, Baden, Wellesley, New Dundee, St. Agatha, Shakespeare, Petersburg, Hickson, Punkeydoodle’s
Farm to Fork host and chef Nick Benninger cooks up a meal with fresh, organic vegetables grown onsite at Pfennings Organic Farms near Baden during shooting of the Rogers TV show’s third season.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF BALLINRAN ENTERTAINMENT)
Farm to Fork digs deeper into Waterloo Region’s food scene
emotions that go into creating food for our tables. It really is a glimpse into the lives of the people who are behind the food on our grocery-store shelves, on our kitchen tables and in our restaurants.”
Thompson said the Waterloo Region area is uniquely suited for a show like Farm to Fork because of its strong agricultural roots and growing agri-tourism industry.
“We’re in the breadbasket of Ontario,” Thompson said. “Many of the people we profile have these farmgate operations where the public can come in and see the farm or buy some of the products. … Farmers are very entrepreneurial and they have that idea to spread their products more than just in supermarkets, but directly to restaurants and at the farmgate.”
“The show is literally rooted in some of the best soil in the world, nurtured and managed by dedicated artisans who, with pride, skill and experience, bring their incredible food to their neighbours in our community,” added Wierzbicki in
a press release issued by Ballinran.
“The show starts with the region’s great soil and ends with the incredible people who, with time, effort and pride, provide their neighbours with some of the best produce found anywhere.”
Season three features several Waterloo Region agricultural operations including Eby Manor Farms, organic vegetable producer Pfenning’s Organic Farm near Baden and The Perth Farmhouse, a winery and agri-tourism destination in Perth East near both Wellesley and Wilmot townships.
Thompson said the show has also highlighted a shift within the agricultural industry as younger generations of farmers bring new ideas and business models to family operations.
“The younger generation is not just tilling the soil and cutting the hay,” Thompson said. “They are injecting an entrepreneurial spirit into farming and agriculture, and we’re seeing that all over the place.”
Hosted by Benninger, who Thompson described as a natural
storyteller and interviewer, the show aims to connect viewers more closely with local food producers and the passion that drives them.
“These are people who genuinely care about what they do,” Thompson said. “There’s a lot of sacrifice that goes into being a farmer, so you have to love what you do. We hope that love and passion comes across in each episode.”
The series is supported by Explore Waterloo Region, which has partnered with the production for all three seasons as part of its efforts to promote local food and agricultural tourism.
“Farm to Fork beautifully captures the passion, innovation and authenticity of Waterloo Region’s agricultural community,” Explore Waterloo Region CEO Michele Saran said in a press release. “It’s a powerful way to connect residents and visitors alike with the people and places behind our local food story.”
The new season of Farm to Fork is now airing on Rogers TV and is also available online.
Crab apple trees add colour to spring landscape
each spring before giving way to other flowering trees and
For many residents, the annual display serves as
er of the
of springtime in the countryside.
Flowering crab apple trees have been adding brilliant colour to Tavistock and surrounding communities over the past week, including this vibrant tree at the corner of Jacob Street and Woodstock Street North in Tavistock. Across southern Ontario, the bright pink blossoms briefly transform towns, villages and rural landscapes
shrubs.
another remind-
beauty
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Wilmot residents demand answers over well water issues
lives, as well as Sandhills, Queens and Bleams Roads.
“I can say with confidence 80 per cent of the population in this area has been affected.”
She added the region is attempting to treat a wider-scale crisis as a series of isolated plumbing issues, forcing neighbours into a one-by-one appeal, which is a process that allows the region to unfairly tip the scales.
“This allows the region to function as judge, jury and defendant over our water supply.”
CSGW is calling for greater accountability from the region, including the reinstatement of the well interference committee by replacing the current stalled appeal process with an independent body to ensure transparency and balance. It also wants to shift the burden of proof to the region, where they would have to scientifically prove their pumping is not the cause of interference before closing a file.
A formal motion to restore an independent appeal process was expected to be brought before regional council by Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen at Wednesday’s regular meeting, following the Gazette’s deadline.
“Our experts feel confident these well-interference reports are related to the increase in the region’s pumping. The motion is very good, but the devil will be in the details. We need a well interference committee, that’s our first ask, but the way it’s executed will be very important,” added Lernout.
Should the committee be formed, she said its membership will be critical to its success.
“Will they look at this systematically? Are they going to look at how all these well-interference reports are related?
The process going forward will be very important.”
Lernout added a crucial point of contention is the region’s reliance on what she called an outdated "historic compensation area."
“We argue that as municipal pumping increases, the ‘cone of depression’ physically expands. We recommend the creation of an updated dynamic compensation area that increases in size to respond to increased extraction, ensuring that any resident within the actual ‘zone of influence’ receives full protection, regardless of outdated historical boundaries.”
CSGW is also calling for an end to what it calls “secret data.”
“The region monitors this aquifer but keeps the data behind a paywall of FOI requests. There is a need for public disclosure so every resident can see exactly how much water is being taken and how it is affecting the shared water table in real-time,” said Lernout.
The urgency is supported in a letter from the owners of Country Gardens RV Park and Landings Campground. It highlights a 40-year history in which the region’s water taking dried up a local well, only for the fiscal responsibility of the replacement water to be put back onto the local well user.
“History tells us what to expect if the studies are wrong,” said Peter Bingeman, president of Country Gardens. “We do not want the region to walk away from its responsibility to existing constituents.”
CSGW is a community advocacy group dedicated to protecting the hydrogeological integrity of the Waterloo Moraine and ensuring permanent water security for the residents of Wilmot.
Tavistock says goodbye to longtime Scotiabank branch
Last Friday marked the end of an era in Tavistock as the community said goodbye to the local Scotiabank branch after decades of service.
Residents stopping by the branch on its final day shared memories of what many described as one of the friendliest and most community-minded banking teams in the area.
Over the years, staff at the Tavistock branch supported countless local organizations and fundraising efforts including the Children’s Aid Angel Tree program,
Tavistock Assistance Program (TAP), Tavistock minor ball, the Tavistock Skating Club, Tavistock Tornadoes soccer, the Tavistock Public School playground project, Tavistock Community Health Inc. (TCHI), the Canadian Transplant Association, the Hickson Trail, school lunch programs, Muscular Dystrophy Canada, the Tavistock Opti-Mrs silent auction, Bowl for Kids, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Tavistock Agricultural Society and the United Way.
East Zorra-Tavistock Mayor Phil Schaefer, who managed the Tavistock branch for 21 years, reflected on the closure and the relationships built over the
years.
“I was blessed to have a great staff and a very loyal customer base,” Schaefer said. “For the past 36 years since its opening, the branch grew its book of business at an above-average pace.”
Schaefer said the loss of one of Tavistock’s two banks is disappointing for both residents and local farm operators who relied on the branch.
He noted banking habits have changed significantly over the years, with most transactions now taking place outside traditional branch locations.
“Eight out of 10 bank transactions are completed outside the branch network,”
Restoring small-town journalism, one community at a time!
Lee Griffi • leegriffi@rogers com Wilmot/Wellesley Reporter
Amanda Nelson • amandajanewriter@gmail.com
Graphic Design / Sales Inquiries
Erin Parsons • thewtgazette@gmail.com
Business Development
Heather Dunbar • heather@granthaven.com
Billing Administrator
Cindy Boakes • boakescindy1576@gmail.com
Administrative Assistant
Wendy Lamond • wendylamond74@gmail.com
Contributors
Gary West, Diane Danen, Mercedes Kay Gold, Julia Paul
36 Water St. St. Marys, ON, PO Box 2310 N4X 1A2 thewtgazette@gmail com | 519.655 2341 | granthaven com
Schaefer said. “Consequently, banks are shrinking those networks, and small towns like Tavistock are the first to feel the pain.”
Schaefer added he feels especially sorry for staff members losing their jobs and for longtime customers who may now face challenges accessing banking services.
“To all customers of the Tavistock branch, I can’t help but have this immense feeling that we have let you down, and that is what makes this closing even more difficult to bear,” he said.
Many customers who visited the branch on its final day shared similar feelings, calling the closure a sad moment in Tavistock’s history.
Longtime Scotiabank customer experience lead Margaret Herlick shares an emotional farewell with her mother during the Tavistock branch’s final day of operation Friday.
Staff members at the Tavistock Scotiabank branch display the amount donated to local non-profit organizations over the past six years. Pictured, from left, are Nichelle Horst, senior customer experience associate, Tina Wolff, customer experience associate, Vicki Eckhardt, senior financial advisor, Michele Frock, branch manager, and Margaret Herlick, customer experience lead.
Among the final customers to visit the Tavistock Scotiabank branch before it closed Friday were Terri-Lee Horst and her grandson, Hudson Horst. Many customers expressed sadness at seeing the longtime community bank close its doors.
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Remembering Sharon Leis: A familiar face in community newspapers for decades
GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor
For generations of readers, advertisers and residents across Wilmot Township and beyond, Sharon Leis was more than a newspaper sales representative.
She was a familiar, local face of community journalism itself.
Leis, longtime advertising sales representative with the WilmotTavistock Gazette and a fixture in local newspapers for decades, died Saturday following an illness. She leaves behind not only a long and respected career in community newspapers, but countless friendships and connections built through years of supporting local businesses, organizations and residents.
Before joining Grant Haven Media and the Wilmot Post in 2020 – a newspaper that would later become the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette – Leis spent much of her career with Metroland Media and the New Hamburg Independent, where she became widely known throughout the community.
“Sharon Leis was the face of newspapers in our community for many decades,” said Paul Knowles, former editor and publisher of the New Hamburg Independent.
Knowles recalled arriving at the Independent in the mid-1980s to find Leis already a cornerstone of the advertising department.
“As a member of our team, she was consistently professional, loyal and brimming with sly humour,” Knowles said. “We all loved her.”
More than 35 years later, Knowles was surprised and delighted to reconnect with Leis through the Wilmot-Tavistock
Gazette after joining Grant Haven Media as a weekly travel columnist.
“(She was) still bringing her love for her community, and for the newspaper business, to her work,” he said. “Whenever I encountered her, I came away with a smile.”
Grant Haven Media publisher Stewart Grant first met Leis on Sept. 18, 2020, during the early days of launching the Wilmot Post.
“She made an immediate impression, and I asked her to join our team on the spot,” Grant said. “Sharon was thrilled to renew her many close connections in the community and, as a result, the Post had plenty of advertisements in it right from the start.”
Though hired as a sales representative, those who worked alongside Leis say her contributions went far beyond advertising.
“She did it all,” Grant said. “She was an expert proof-reader who caught many typos others missed. Within our team, she was the ultimate cheerleader who was the first to celebrate others’ successes.”
Her dedication to community journalism was something colleagues say never faded, even after retirement.
“The word ‘retirement’ never suited Sharon,” said Jen Gaetan, a former Metroland colleague who later worked with Leis again at Grant Haven Media. “She deeply believed in small-town businesses and the people behind them. To Sharon, clients were never just accounts; they were neighbours, friends and part of the community she cared about so fiercely.”
Heather Dunbar, Grant Haven
Media’s director of business development, first worked with Leis in 2001 and later reunited with her at Grant Haven Media.
“Sharon always put her clients first and was fiercely dedicated to local community news,” Dunbar said. “She seemed to know what was happening before anyone else and always knew exactly who to connect with to get the story or find the answer.”
Dunbar added Leis brought humour, honesty and encouragement to every workplace she entered.
“She was a straight shooter – honest, direct and genuine,” Dunbar said. “She will be remembered not only for her professionalism and dedication, but also for the energy, laughter and support she brought to those around her.”
That warmth extended far beyond the newsroom.
Erik Kuttis, president of TLC Pet Food in New Hamburg, described Leis as both a longtime advertising partner and a close family friend.
“She was a strong advocate for local journalism and was so proud of Grant Haven Media,” Kuttis said. “What really mattered to Sharon, though, was her family. She loved sharing updates and lit up when telling stories about the grandkids.”
“What I will remember most about Sharon is that wonderful laugh,” he added. “Sharon could light up a room with her uninhibited laugh.”
For many who knew her, that laughter, kindness and unwavering support for local journalism will remain her lasting legacy.
“She was more than just a co-worker; she was a wonderful friend,” said Grant Haven Media
sales and marketing consultant Mamta Patel. “Her cheerful spirit and positive energy brightened every encounter we had.”
“Sharon was incredibly organized and detail oriented, qualities that made my job so much easier and reflected the pride she took in her work,” added Gazette graphic designer Erin Parsons.
“More than anything, it was clear she had a genuine passion for serving her community and helping local businesses succeed. She will be very dearly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with her.”
As the community reflects on
Leis’ life and career, one thing remains clear: her impact on local newspapers – and on the people who produce them – will not soon be forgotten.
A visitation for Leis will be held at Mark Jutzi Funeral Home in New Hamburg May 26 from 5-8 p.m. and May 27 from 1-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. A funeral will be held Steinmann Mennonite Church May 28 at 11 a.m. We at Grant Haven Media are encouraging everyone who knew or worked with Leis to come out and show their support for her family.
Sharon Leis dedicated decades to supporting local journalism and businesses throughout Wilmot Township and the surrounding communities.
(FILE PHOTO)
Nith Valley EcoBoosters hosting heat-pump information session in Baden
GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor
As interest in heat pumps continues to grow across Ontario, a local environmental group is hoping to help residents better understand the technology and whether it could work for their homes.
Nith Valley EcoBoosters, in partnership with Get Pumped Waterloo Region, is hosting a Get Pumped information session May 26 at the Wilmot Recreation Complex in Baden. The event will feature local experts discussing how heat pumps work, what homeowners should know before purchasing one and how the systems can help reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
“There’s a growing interest in heat pumps, but we’re finding a lot of people really don’t understand or are confused by heat pumps,” said event co-organizer
Dean Peachey of Nith Valley EcoBoosters. “Some people are being told by their HVAC person, ‘Oh, you can’t do that. You have to have a furnace backup.’ So there just seems to be a lot of poor information and confusion out there.”
Peachey said he and his wife installed a heat pump in their home three years ago and have been happy with the results, even without a backup furnace. The event’s speaker lineup is designed to provide homeowners with several perspectives on the technology.
Jim Bolger of Waterloo Energy Products will speak from the perspective of an experienced HVAC installer who has worked with heat pumps in Waterloo Region for many years.
Andrew Schiedel of Reep Green Solutions in Kitchener will discuss home-energy assessments and the types of
questions homeowners should ask before replacing heating or cooling systems.
Diane Stanley-Horn, founder of the website, Get Pumped Waterloo Region, will share a homeowner’s perspective after researching and installing a heat pump herself. In a media release promoting the event, Stanley-Horn said the transition to cleaner home heating and cooling systems can feel overwhelming for homeowners.
“The process for a homeowner can be complicated and confusing,” StanleyHorn said. “I wanted to create a resource that helps homeowners navigate the process and hear from other homeowners about their experiences.”
Peachey said one of the key messages organizers hope attendees take away is the importance of planning ahead instead of waiting until a furnace or air conditioner fails unexpectedly.
“Let’s not wait until our furnace dies in the middle of winter or the air conditioner quits during a heat wave,” Peachey said. “Plan ahead, give yourself time to get a couple of quotes and see what the options are.”
From an environmental perspective, Peachey said heat pumps represent one of the easier ways homeowners can reduce fossil-fuel use.
“We all need to find ways to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” he said. “This is probably one of the easiest things that most people who own their own homes can do.”
The Get Pumped event will take place Tuesday, May 26 at 7 p.m. at the Wilmot Recreation Complex, 1291 Nafziger Rd. in Baden. Organizers encourage advance registration at nvecoboosters.com to help ensure enough seating and refreshments are available.
Tavistock Opti-Mrs support community projects with major donations
The Tavistock Opti-Mrs continue to make a positive impact in the community through fundraising, volunteerism and support for local organizations.
Originally formed by a small group of women whose husbands were members of the Tavistock Optimist Club, the organization began with just five or six members meeting in each other’s homes.
Today, the Tavistock Opti-Mrs has grown to 22 members and continues to meet monthly on the second Thursday of each month from September through June.
The group’s purpose is to support charities, community projects and organizations in need throughout the Tavistock area, with all proceeds from its fundraising activities directed back into the community.
This past year, the club made two significant financial contributions locally, including a $5,000 donation to the
Tavistock Optimist Club’s pavilion project and another planned $5,000 donation to Tavistock Community Health Inc. (TCHI).
Members say the donations reflect the organization’s commitment to supporting projects and services that make a meaningful difference in the community.
While the club may be relatively small in numbers, members say they remain a dedicated group of women committed to helping others while building strong friendships along the way.
The Tavistock Opti-Mrs are currently welcoming new members interested in giving back to the community, meeting new people and becoming involved with a caring volunteer organization.
Anyone interested in learning more about the group is encouraged to contact the club at tavistockoptimrs@gmail.com.
PUBLICATION DATES:
JUNE IS SENIORS MONTH IN ONTARIO - a time to celebrate the seniors who continue to make a lasting impact in our communities. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to align your brand with the spirit of Seniors Month and connect with a passionate audience eager to celebrate the seniors who have made a lasting impact. Reserve your space today!
Members of the Tavistock Opti-Mrs recently presented a $5,000 donation to support the Tavistock Optimist Club pavilion project. Pictured, from left, are Jeff Swartzentruber, pavilion fundraising chair, Jo-Anne Parker, Yvonne Roth, Monica Schultz presenting the cheque, Tricia Wilhelm, Rachel Stewart and Tavistock Optimist Club president Jesse Weicker.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS
New Hamburg artist wins top prize at Paint Ontario
GALEN SIMMONS Regional Editor
For New Hamburg artist Sarah Clarke, the beauty of the natural world is often found in the quiet moments others might walk past without noticing.
It is the way light catches on a leaf, the sparkle of frost on twigs or the reflection of trees on the water – small, fleeting scenes Clarke captures in oil paint and offers back to others as a reminder there is still beauty and hope in the world.
That attention to detail recently earned Clarke first prize and $3,000 at the Paint Ontario 2026 juried art show and sale, hosted by the Grand Bend Art Centre, for her oil painting, “Holy Noticing.”
“I think what people pay attention to in the world really matters right now,” Clarke said. “Our attention is constantly being pulled toward the negative. … When I’m out in the world just noticing the way the light catches on a leaf or something, it just brings your focus into the joy.”
“Holy Noticing” depicts a scene in Huron Park in Kitchener, a natural preserve Clarke described as “amazing.” The
piece focuses on a frosty landscape filled with twigs, light and sparkle – the kind of everyday scene she said many people might pass by without a second look.
“It’s magic when you pay attention to the landscape,” Clarke said. “I think that is my art practice. … It’s sacred, noticing things most people just walk by.”
A 2011 graduate of the University of Waterloo, Clarke has been painting since graduation, aside from a brief period working as an interior-design assistant. She now works as both an artist and stayat-home mother, something she said has deeply influenced the way she sees and paints the world.
While Clarke said she once painted broader landscape scenes, having children helped draw her attention to the smaller, close-up moments in nature.
“Their wonder for the world … especially when they’re toddlers, you go to the forest with them and there is no hurrying by it,” Clarke said. “You’re just in the present moment with them.”
Clarke said becoming a mother added another layer to her work by helping her
slow down and focus on the kinds of details children naturally stop to appreciate.
This year marked Clarke’s first time submitting work to juried art shows. She said she had always been hesitant because of the possibility of rejection, but this spring she decided to take a chance and entered three shows. She was accepted into all three, including Paint Ontario.
“I was not anticipating that at all,” Clarke said of winning first prize. “I went to the show with my husband and there were so many gorgeous pieces and pieces by artists I’ve followed and admired forever. … Just to get among them and meet some of the people I’ve looked up to on my journey, it was really cool.”
Hosted at the Grand Bend Legion Hall from May 2-17, Paint Ontario is an annual exhibition and sale that supports both emerging and professional artists. According to the Grand Bend Art Centre, the show was founded by artist Barry Richman and has continued to grow while
maintaining its focus on representational art.
The 2026 show featured more than $14,000 in painting and sculpture awards and prizes, including the $3,000 grand prize Clarke received.
For Clarke, original art carries with it the life and experience of the person who created it.
“People often ask how long a piece takes,” she said. “It takes a lifetime. It’s all my history … emotion and effort.”
Clarke said she hopes those who see or purchase her work connect with the landscapes she paints and begin noticing similar moments of beauty in their own lives.
“It’s always my hope that people will resonate with a piece and either see something familiar, a landscape they pass by without really paying attention to it, or mostly that the light speaks to people in my pieces,” she said. “And then that it will bring them joy in their home.”
Saturday, May 23 Saturday, May 23 7:00pm - 10:00pm 7:00pm - 10:00pm
New Hamburg artist Sarah Clarke at work in her home studio.
“Holy Noticing,” New Hamburg artist Sarah Clarke’s winning submission to the Paint Ontario 2026 juried competition in Grand Bend.
(GALEN SIMMONS PHOTO)
(IMAGE COURTESY OF SARAH CLARKE)
Oxford County council purchasing Woodstock YMCA for homeless shelter Closed-door decision defended by warden
LEE GRIFFI Gazette Reporter
Oxford County council has approved the purchase of the former Woodstock YMCA property on Dundas Street, with plans to convert the site into a homeless shelter and support centre.
The sale closes on May 29 for $4.55 million. According to realtor.ca, the property was listed for $5.69 million. It is expected to open in early 2028 following extensive renovations, the cost of which is not known. While all discussions and the approval of the purchase were made behind closed doors, the county held an emergency meeting on Tuesday afternoon after the story broke late last week, making the purchase public. Woodstock Mayor Jerry Acchione read a motion following a lengthy in-camera session.
“Moved by myself and seconded by Deputy warden Martin, that the verbal report of the warden be received and that staff be directed to implement the previously planned communication regarding the homelessness support centre and further, that the warden be authorized, at his discretion, to speak on matters containing closed session reports as it relates to the acquisition of the homelessness support centre property.”
Acchione added he supported the move to allow Warden Marcus Ryan to clear the air.
“I appreciate what’s going on right now on social media. There’s been a lot of
accusations thrown around, and I appreciate the warden being able to speak to this if council so decides, as he sees fit.”
Woodstock city and Oxford County Coun. Bernia Martin seconded the motion and spoke to it.
“I enthusiastically support this motion and look forward to the communication that comes forward from it.”
That communication came in the form of a press release from county CAO Ben Addley and an additional statement from Ryan on Tuesday evening.
“This is good news for our community and a fundamental step toward getting more people the support they need to get off the streets,” said Addley.
“Working with our community partners, the building will offer emergency shelter services along with onsite supports that help people move safely inside, become stabilized and connect to the right form of housing. It will also be tied to the new HART Hub and Wellness Centre in Woodstock, a provincially funded facility that provides mental health and addictions support, along with other services.”
Grant Haven Media interviewed the warden on Wednesday morning, during which he said the closed-doors process had been approved by the county’s integrity commissioner (IC).
“It is absolutely normal municipal practice throughout Ontario, explicitly made legal in the Municipal Act, and we checked twice with our IC throughout this process
Dawn Breaks Over the Baden Hills
to ensure we were doing it properly,” Ryan said.
He added taxpayers saved at least $580,000 by keeping the purchase confidential.
“That’s why we do that, to protect taxpayers' dollars. If we are going to purchase a property, we are going to do that in the most efficient way that we can. Municipalities go into closed session to say to their staff they would like to purchase a property, and here is the maximum number we would like to go to. Staff then have the ability to negotiate a purchase price.”
Ryan understands the property’s neighbours have legitimate concerns, but since the county will own it, they will be better equipped to manage the issues that go along with a homeless shelter.
“Homelessness, addiction and mental health issues are arguably the most important issues this term of council has had to deal with. If we don’t find a better way to deal with it, it’s going to get worse for everybody. The only option, other than this, is worse.”
The warden, who is not seeking re-election in Zorra Township, said homelessness wasn’t an issue he ever expected would be a part of his time as an elected official.
“But here we are. Without a doubt, the vast majority of Oxford and Woodstock residents will be better off with this homeless service centre.”
In his own statement, Ryan said a member of county council recently questioned the actions over the process involved in purchasing the building.
“The councillor stated that they were very concerned as an elected official. I couldn’t agree more; voting one way and
saying the opposite is very concerning. On April 28, this member of council voted in public, in open session, to go into closed session to consider purchasing the former YMCA property for use as the homelessness support centre.”
While not naming her directly, Ryan was referring to Woodstock city and county Coun. Deb Tait who attempted to pass a notice of motion to implement public consultation before the sale of the building was finalized.
“Then, on the same day, the councillor voted, again in public in open session, to adopt the recommendations in report HS (CS) 2026-02 to purchase the former YMCA property for use as the (shelter). Council is here to make the tough decisions on the tough issues and be accountable. I have great respect for this councillor and every single member of council, and I believe without doubt that all of us are working to serve in this way.”
Tait also released a brief statement on Wednesday.
“We were all elected by the public. I firmly believe that the public's business should be done in a public forum with public discourse. A motion that states the recommendations in closed are adopted. That gives the public no chance to have their say. It also does not allow a councillor to speak to it as it is confidential information discussed in closed.”
She added when dealing with millions of dollars of taxpayer money as an elected official, they should err on the side of caution and be as transparent as possible.
“My motion for the public meeting, even though seven councillors voted to defer, served its purpose to bring the issue to the public.”
Morning fog rises beneath a glowing orange sky over the Baden Hills in Wilmot Township in this photo submitted to the Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette by Mike Grummett of New Hamburg.
(MIKE GRUMMETT PHOTO)
Oxford County is purchasing the former Woodstock YMCA property for $4.55 million, with plans to convert the site into a homeless shelter and support centre. It is expected to open in early 2008.
(LEE GRIFFI PHOTO)
Mother’s Day celebrations bring laughter and relaxation to The Maples
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Residents at The Maples Home for Seniors in Tavistock enjoyed plenty of laughter, relaxation and special treats during three days of Mother’s Day celebrations last week.
The festivities included spathemed activities featuring facial massages and plenty of time for residents to relax and enjoy being pampered.
Along with the spa treatments, residents were treated to refreshments, mimosas and plenty of laughs throughout the celebrations.
One memorable moment came when a group gathered to prepare mimosas and the cork from a champagne bottle flew across the room after being opened, drawing plenty of laughter from everyone nearby.
Executive director Joan Hergott said the celebrations were all about creating fun memories and making residents feel special during Mother’s Day.
The Maples executive director Joan Hergott, left, shares a laugh with Stratford’s Cindy Hyde and residents Irene Epp and Doreen Wagner during Mother’s Day celebrations at The Maples Home for Seniors in Tavistock. The group had just opened a bottle of champagne for mimosas when the cork unexpectedly flew across the room, adding to the fun of the spa-themed celebration.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
From NH to LA and back: A dance journey
SCOTT DUNSTALL Gazette Correspondent
There’s something quietly impressive happening inside Centre Stage Dance Studio in New Hamburg, and it didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of decades of work, a willingness to keep learning and a commitment to doing right by the students who walk through the door.
Donna Bender has been running the studio since 1986, building it the way most small-town institutions are built, through consistency, reputation and community trust. But the version of Centre Stage that exists today began to take shape in 2004, when Bender met a mentor who would completely change how she approached dance instruction.
That mentor was Paula Morgan, an elite Master Teacher whose influence reached far beyond her own studio. Morgan had trained dancers who went on to professional careers, including Broadway, but her focus later shifted toward teaching teachers. Her philosophy was simple in principle but demanding in execution. Train the teacher properly and the impact spreads far wider than working with individual dancers alone.
Bender didn’t admire that approach from a distance. She committed to it fully.
For more than a decade, she and her daughter, Alexa, travelled multiple times each year to Los Angeles to train directly under Morgan. March breaks, summers and Christmas holidays were spent in studios, working, learning and refining their understanding of how the body should be trained.
That level of commitment required time, money and a willingness to rethink what they’re doing back home.
Morgan also travelled to New Hamburg to work with Bender’s students, creating a two-way exchange that allowed the training to take root locally. Over time, Bender was not just learning the technique but being held accountable to it. Each visit came with the expectation that her students would show measurable improvement, not just in performance, but in their
foundational technique.
What they were learning stood apart from the more common approach to dance instruction. Instead of focusing primarily on choreography and competition results, Morgan’s technique emphasized conditioning the entire body so dancers could perform safely and continue progressing over time.
Bender saw the difference quickly. Her students were stronger, improving more consistently, and most importantly, avoiding the kinds of injuries that had become common elsewhere.
In her experience, there is a growing issue within dance training, particularly injuries involving hips, knees and ankles. These often come from repetitive movement and a lack of full-body conditioning, and once they develop, they can limit what a dancer is capable of doing.
The system Bender brought back from her time with Morgan was designed to prevent those problems before they start.
Training focuses on the entire body, in cluding areas often overlooked, such as the back, shoulders and smaller stabilizing
muscles. The goal is to create a body that is not only capable of performing, but capable of sustaining that high-level performance over time.
At Centre Stage, that philosophy is built into the structure of the studio. Dancers who move beyond a recreational level are required to take Groundforce Technique classes, which form the foundation of everything else they do. It is not the most visible part of training, but it is the part that allows everything else to function properly.
The results have shaped the studio’s reputation. Bender is known within the dance community as a technician, someone who understands how to build and repair a dancer’s body. Many students who come to her from other studios are already dealing with injuries and are looking for help to recover and retrain safely.
That reputation has extended beyond Waterloo Region. Bender now teaches across North America, working with both dancers and instructors. Her focus on teaching teachers is a direct continuation
When Morgan was no longer able to teach due to illness, that connection became even more significant. Carrying forward her work and ensuring that her approach continues to reach both dancers and instructors has become a central part of what drives Bender today.
Alexa has taken that same foundation and applied it in her own way. While she returns to New Hamburg to teach at the studio, she has also built a career that bridges dance and Pilates, working with a broader population and applying the same principles of safe, effective movement. She credits both her mother and Morgan for shaping her understanding.
What stands out most is that this is not a static system. Even after nearly four decades, Bender continues to study, research anatomy and refine her methods. That commitment to ongoing learning has shaped the culture of the studio.
While competitions and performances remain part of the experience, they are not treated as the only measure of success. Bender is clear that only a small percentage of dancers will pursue professional careers, but every student should be treated with the utmost care. The goal is to ensure students graduate with a body that is strong, healthy and capable of supporting them long after their time in dance has ended.
In a community like New Hamburg, access to this level of training is not something residents would necessarily expect. But through years of travel, discipline and a commitment to bringing the best possible instruction back home, Bender has created something that stands out.
What has been built at Centre Stage is not just a place where students learn routines. It is a place where they learn how to move properly, train responsibly and carry those habits with them for the rest of their lives.
Centre Stage Dance Studio celebrates 40 years of service this May, and Bender and her team are forever grateful for the support of the community over these last four decades.
Donna Bender's longtime associate dance teacher, Michelle Harlock, puts her arm around her to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Centre Stage Dance Studio in New Hamburg along with several current students. In the foreground, leaning on her knees, is daughter Alexa who is not only a past student but is now an instructor and professional dancer
(SCOTT DUNSTALL PHOTO)
SHOW US YOUR WILMOT
Tavistock Masonic Lodge donates to Tavistock Community Health Inc.
Members of
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
Members of Tavistock Masonic Lodge No. 609 welcomed representatives from Tavistock Community Health Inc. (TCHI) to their Hope Street West lodge last Thursday for a special donation presentation.
The Tavistock lodge is part of the Wilson District under the Grand Lodge of Canada and, according to members, is one of the youngest Masonic lodges in the country, having been established in 1922.
As part of the organization’s continued
support for community initiatives, lodge members presented a $1,000 donation to TCHI to assist with ongoing fundraising efforts for upgrades to the Tavistock Medical Centre on Maria Street.
TCHI continues to raise funds toward its $500,000 goal for long-awaited improvements and upgrades to the medical centre.
Board members with TCHI expressed appreciation for the continued support received from local clubs, organizations and residents throughout the fundraising campaign.
In response to growing demand for reliable service, we’re proud to offer complete property services and management.
Our new services include:
Weekly lawn mowing and maintenance
Yard cleanup and debris removal
Removal of sheds, fencing, playgrounds and unwanted structures
Flower bed and rock garden removal
Estate property cleanups for upcoming sales
Exterior home and deck power washing
Basement and garage cleanouts
Assistance with bylaw property cleanup orders
Skid steer services (regrading, backfilling, brush mowing, post hole augering and soil removal)
Locally grown tree sales (Grown by KandT Farms)
We will continue to provide our full range of professional tree services, including removals, pruning, stump grinding, and lawn repair.
Proudly serving our community with quality, care and local expertise.
CALL TOM to chat about how we can help 519-580-6255 or treefellar@netflash.net
Tavistock Masonic Lodge No. 609 recently presented a $1,000 donation to Tavistock Community Health Inc. to support upgrades to the Tavistock Medical Centre. Front row, from left, are Elmer Dredge, Bob Rudy, Jimmy Phimsavanh, Frank Meconi, Beverly Neeb, Stuart Klein and Dennis Kuepfer. Back row, from left, are Phil Schaefer, David Wilton, John Ault, Jim Francis, Ryan McLean, Ron Wilker and Jordan Brick.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
A vibrant rainbow stretches across the sky over a farm in this beautiful photo taken on Queen Street in New Dundee. Teresa Bricker-Muir shared the photo to the Show Us Your Wilmot Facebook page on May 19.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SHOW US YOUR WILMOT FACEBOOK PAGE)
Youth volunteers help clean up roadside litter near Baden
Two young members of the Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigades recently spent part of their day helping clean up litter along the westbound Highway 7 and 8 offramp into Baden.
Brothers Matt and Chris Wolf collected seven bags of garbage during the cleanup effort along the roadside.
The pair said they were surprised by the amount of litter they found, including Tim Hortons cups, McDonald’s containers, pop cans, water bottles and dozens of discarded vape products.
What disturbed them most, however, was finding a full bag of empty beer cans and liquor bottles.
The cleanup effort left the brothers questioning why people continue to litter and, more importantly, why some continue to drink and drive.
The community organization praised the pair for their efforts to help keep the countryside clean and for setting a positive example for others.
Matt and Chris Wolf said many passing motorists slowed down to thank them for their efforts, while others honked in support as they worked along the roadside.
T:7"
Matt Wolf, left, and his brother, Chris Wolf, collect roadside litter near Baden during a recent cleanup effort organized through the Wilmot Heritage Fire Brigades.
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
(PHOTO COURTESY OF
Wellesley hosting Taste the Culture event Saturday
Residents from across the area are invited to celebrate culture, music and food from around the world during the Taste the Culture: Spring Around the World event in Wellesley this Saturday.
The event will take place May 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Bill Gies Recreation Complex.
Organizers with the Wellesley-North Easthope Agricultural Society and the Wellesley Township Fall Fair say the event will feature entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, children’s crafts and cultural and educational displays representing a variety of cultures and traditions.
“Everyone should come and experience the sights, sounds and flavours of cultures from around the world,” organizers said.
The entertainment lineup begins at 11:15 a.m. with Irish music performed by Bob McLean, followed by the Bhangra Dancers at 12:15 p.m.
At 1:15 p.m., the Swiss Club of Thames Valley will perform, followed by LoveSounD Steel Drummer at 2:15 p.m.
Admission to the event is free and all ages are welcome. Donations in support of the Wellesley-North Easthope Agricultural Society will also be accepted.
Members of the organizing committee for the upcoming Taste the Culture: Spring Around the World event in Wellesley include, front row from left, Puneet Hayer, Barb Nowack and Mary Lichty-Neeb. Back row, from left, are Nazia Khan, Bea Borsato, Wendy Richardson and Fiona Gilbert. Absent for the photo were Manni Hayer, Connie Cunningham, Abra Alsakani, Kristine Allison of Engage Rural and Brooke Giles of the Waterloo Regional Library.
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
Wilmot preparing for Canada Day festivities
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
With just over a month until the event, the Township of Wilmot and Wilmot Canada Day volunteers are sharing 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 and supported by the Wilmot Indigenous Relations Interfaith Working Group.
Opening ceremonies will follow at 1 p.m., with a performance of the national anthem by the Community Players and the New Hamburg Concert Band, a Colour Guard led by the New Hamburg Legion, a bike parade 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 also run a barbecue from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Other food vendors will operate from 5 p.m. to dusk.
The Kids Zone opens at 1 p.m. and will feature a mix of games, entertainment, creative activities and classic outdoor races. Popular children’s entertainer Erick Traplin has three shows this year at 1:30 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The Kids Zone
will also feature a reading nook, hosted by the Region of Waterloo Library.
New this year is the Youth Zone, featuring an obstacle course inflatable, bubble soccer, inflatable target practice, Top Shot Hockey and the nearby dunk tank.
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 starting at 1:15 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, and the township is asking people to keep an eye on the website and it’s Facebook page for the latest updates, www.facebook.com/ wilmottownship.
This event is a joint effort between the township and a group of dedicated local volunteers. Questions can be directed to 519-634-9225 ext. 9361 or lacey.smith@ wilmot.ca.
Tavistock Men’s Club preparing for annual fish fry
Members of the Tavistock Men’s Club are inviting area residents to attend the club’s annual pickerel fish fry on Wednesday, June 3. Club president Brian Boland said the popular fundraiser has become a longstanding tradition in Tavistock, offering residents a chance to enjoy a fresh-cooked meal while visiting with friends and neighbours. Members of the club, along with their wives and volunteers, prepare the pickerel fresh the night of the event using the club’s own fryers. The club’s popular homemade sauerkraut will also be available for purchase.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Summer celebration to raise funds for Tavistock Fall Fair
The Tavistock Agricultural Society is inviting the community to kick off summer at its fundraiser, 5 Corners Summer Sips, on Saturday, June 27, at the Tavistock and District Recreation Centre.
Promoted as a full-blown summer party in the heart of the community, the event will run from 2 p.m. until midnight and will feature live music, craft beverages and a variety of food trucks.
Organizers say the family-friendly event is aimed at bringing the community together while raising money for improvements to the Tavistock Fall Fair. Early bird tickets for ages 13 and older are $50 until June 1. After that, tickets will increase to $60. Children 12 and under will be admitted free of charge.
The idea for the event was first suggested by Don Junker after attending a similar event in Norfolk County. At the time, the society felt the timing was not right to take on an event of that scale, so the idea was set aside.
Interest in the idea returned at last fall’s fair wrap-up meeting, where board members discussed ways to bring larger midway rides back to the Tavistock Fall Fair. While the fair remains in a solid financial position, organizers said the rising cost of attracting larger amusement companies has become a challenge.
“The fair is still in a good financial position,” said Jack Danen, “but there are
the arena for a very long time, so we are really hoping for the community to support us and make it a very successful one,” said Danen. “Hopefully the event will be a success and become an annual event.”
The music lineup features headlining Eagles tribute band Hotel California, with Stratford native Jay Riehl on drums and vocals. Also performing are Crackerjack Palace, a classic rock cover band performing hits from artists including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Steely Dan, along with Tavistock natives Katie Hamilton and singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Chuckee Zehr. Local artists are looking forward to playing to a hometown crowd.
Crackerjack Palace will kick things off shortly after 2 p.m. Chuckee Zehr and Katie Hamilton will perform around 5 p.m., and then Hotel California will perform at 8 p.m.
Organizers have put a system in place that will allow guests to come and go throughout the day, though attendees are encouraged to stay and support the many vendors participating in the event.
fewer amusement companies available, and fundraising will help make Tavistock a more attractive stop for ride providers.”
The planning committee for 5 Corners Summer Sips includes Jack Danen, Don
Junker, Connie Junker, Chad Keller, Val Jones, Alisha Wilson, Susan Withinshaw and Julie Kimpel.
“There hasn’t been an event like this in
Organizers say ticket sales have been strong and are encouraging people to purchase tickets early before prices increase. About 30 to 40 volunteers are still needed for the event. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to reach out to organizers. For tickets or more information, contact Don Junker at 519-535-7052 or Jack Danen at 519-274-9551.
Crackerjack Palace will be performing at 5 Corner Summer Sips on Saturday, June 27, at the Tavistock Recreation Centre. Pictured in the front row, from left to right, are St. Marys native Fern Pridham and Tom Elliott. In the back row, from left, are Dean Jutzi, Mark Diotallevi, Diego Vitello and Tavistock native Barry Klein.
DIANE DANEN Gazette Correspondent
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
IN
In Memoriam
to
Nelda and Ray Brenneman
We remember with love, our dear Mother, Grandmother, Wife and Friend who passed away three years ago on May 23, 2023. On April 24 th , 2026, Ray Brenneman, joined Nelda, dressed in what she would have chosen for him. We are sure they are looking down with care and love for all their friends; appreciating the green grass, lilacs, and the promise of roses soon to bloom. We celebrate Ray and Nelda. Two people who loved each other deeply, who loved God, and treated everyone how they wanted to be treated. Nelda and Ray are listening to barbershop music, watching Wheel of Fortune and eating pie. They are looking down, in peace, holding hands, and wishing everyone to take pleasure in the small things. “If you are too busy to sing, you are too busy”.
Wilmot Lions/Lioness Club donates to Interfaith Counselling Centre
The Wilmot Lions/Lioness Club welcomed the Interfaith Counselling Centre (ICC) to its May 14 meeting and updated the club on the counselling services they provide to residents of Wilmot and surrounding townships. Since no one is turned away for lack of funds, the club presented them with a donation so they can continue to provide counselling to those who need it. Pictured from left to right are Lions secretary Joan Bilinsky, ICC office administrator Kristin Oliver, board chair Ed Janzen and Lions vice president Tom Matthews.
1. What corporation is Canada’s largest uranium supplier?
2. What major man-made waterway is in Egypt?
3. What is Drake's latest album (2026) called?
4. What does DEFCON stand for?
5. Who is Disney’s tiny fairy introduced in 1953?
6. What type of dish is a Minestrone?
7. Billiard cloth on a pool table is commonly referred to as ____?
8. What celebrity launched a perfume called glow?
9. What are you to do if you happen to catch on fire?
10. What is the most dangerous level of Tornado?
PeterS 2026
The Old Gazettes
By Sydney Grant
Slowly but surely, I’m reading through the past pages of the Tavistock Gazette (est. 1895). Within this weekly column I’d like to share with you some of my findings.
May 11 - 18, 2016, Edition (10 years ago)
The Stratford man who brought the World Crokinole Championship to Tavistock has passed away at the age of 68. Wayne Kelly, better known as “Mr. Crokinole,” died suddenly but peacefully at his home in Stratford on Tuesday, May 3, 2016. Back in April of 1999, Wayne approached local service clubs to pitch the idea of a crokinole tournament to be held here. In his 1988 publication, The Crokinole Book, he had suggested that the oldest known crokinole board documented in Canada was built by Eckhardt Wettlaufer of Sebastopol in 1875. It was a fifth birthday present for his son, Adam. As Sebastopol is a suburb of Tavistock, it was thought Tavistock was the most likely place to hold such a prestigious event.
About 50 members of the North Easthope Antique Tractor Breakfast Club gathered in the parking lot of the new South Easthope Mutual Insurance building on Thursday morning at the request of CEO and manager Frank Rider. The club met at Quehl’s Restaurant dining hall at 9 a.m. for their monthly breakfast and meeting after which time they drove their antique tractors to the new head office at 62 Woodstock St. S. Tractors in attendance ranged from the 1958 John Deere 820 owned by Bob Schlohauer to Howard Roth’s International 606 Diesel. May 10 - 17, 2006, Edition (20 years ago)
Families gathered at Tavistock Public School on Thursday night, May 4, to meet with teachers and learn together during Education Week. Along with touring classrooms together, students were able to find some good reading at the book fair in the library. The gymnasium was set up with a number of stations where families could work out fun math problems together. Tangram puzzles – a Chinese game that lets players create recognizable shapes from triangles, squares, and parallelograms – had several levels of difficulty for the primary ages groups up to Grade 3. Symmetry was explained by placing shapes on mats in order and students could measure their height with their hands using centicubes.
Once again, the students of Sprucedale Public School in Shakespeare have come through with a mountain of aluminum can tabs to assist the Tavistock Legion with their ongoing community work. The tabs are taken to Woodstock and combined with donations from the other Oxford County Legion branches. At least once a week, Woodstock Branch tab chairman Jim Miller takes a load to Elora where the tabs are processed. Any monies raised by this method are then returned to the local branches by the supply of wheelchairs, crutches and walkers. Students of Sprucedale School collected 29,150 grams, or 29.15 kilograms, or 64.13 pounds of tabs in their campaign which starts in September and ends in May. The tabs are used for math lessons in weight conversion.
The curbs are in, the asphalt is down, the entrance feature is complete and the Lunor Group is ready for construction of homes in Tavistock’s newest subdivision. Located in the Southwest corner of the village, the subdivision is intersected by the Hohner Drain with two concrete culverts under the roadway. The adjacent grounds set aside for parkland are being transformed into a park-like setting with the addition of 162 small trees.
May 14 - 21, 1986, Edition (40 years ago)
Work began Monday on the Hope Street West road-reconstruction project when County of Oxford crews moved in. Excavation proceeded at the five corners with the laying of a new eight-inch watermain, to be connected when work is complete. Engineering plans showed an existing eight-inch main, but the workers only found a six-inch pipe. Woodstock Street may have to be blocked off temporarily to allow workers to find the eightinch main which is thought to be on the south side of the highway. Crews made good time installing the new mains and reached the bank parking lot by the end of the day.
Mrs. Verda Merklinger won $50,000 in the new “Play Ball” instant lottery last Monday night, May 12. She purchased the ticket from her neighbour, lottery agent Mrs. Ruth Ann Phelps, while attending Optimist Bingo in Shakespeare. Mrs. Merklinger says it's “a nice amount to win.” She plans on giving some of her winnings to her family, doing some home renovations and taking a trip. The first thing she bought with her prize money was a new lawnmower.
TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK
GRACE UNITED CHURCH
116 Woodstock St. S., Tavistock Service starts at 10:30 am 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
Family Bible Hour - 11am Each Sunday
ST. PAUL'S EV LUTHERAN CHURCH - LCC
Service - 2 pm Sunday 19 Wellington St., Tavistock stpaulstavistock@gmail.com
Pastor Rev Michael Mayer
EAST ZORRA MENNONITE
677044 16th Line Road, East Zorra Pastors Ray Martin & Mike Williamson www.ezmennonite.ca
Service audio recordings available at: https://ezmennonite.ca/worship/
WILMOT TOWNSHIP
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
Corner of Waterloo St and Byron St, New Hamburg
Weekly Sunday services at 10:15 am. All are welcome. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com
St James Chapel of Ease Annual Anniversary Service
Sunday June 14 at 3:00pm 4339 Huron Rd, Wilmot Township
Come join us to celebrate over 170 years of Anglican Worship in Wilmot. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com/
ST AGATHA MENNONITE CHURCH
1967 Erb's Road St Agatha 519-634-8212
Pastor Jim Brown
Worship service 10am followed by coffee hour and sermon discussion. All are welcome
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Merchants take B title at Innerkip fastball tournament while Mustangs reach A semi-finals
LEE GRIFFI
Gazette Correspondent
The Tavistock Merchants earned a 2-0 victory over the Toronto U23 Batmen in the B Final of the Innerkip Victoria Day Weekend Tournament.
“I would say the Batmen are ranked number one. They are the defending national champions and have a majority of their team returning. The New Hamburg Mustangs have the majority of their team returning as well, who finished third at last year’s Canadians,” said Tavistock head coach Kevin Zehr.
“We had nine players age out from last year's team, but with our seven returning players and the new guys, we look to be right there with them. I’m excited to see what they can accomplish the more we play together. The new players fit in right away, and every game they got tighter and more comfortable on the field. It was definitely a confidence boost for all of them this weekend.”
The Merchants finished play in Pool B
with a pair of ties, a win and a loss. Also competing were the Tavistock Yardgoats, who finished with a pair of wins and a defeat. They lost to the Chippewa Chiefs in an A semi-final matchup.
“We had seven players age out in 2024 and nine in 2025, leaving us with just seven returning players this season. Connor Brooks from Napanee is back for his fourth year with us, and he brings along his brother, Gavin, a first-year player who has played for Team Ontario at the Canadian Summer Games,” Zehr said.
“We have local players back. Tripp Gilbert, Justin Roth, Will Schlotzhauer, Aaron Waugh, Bo Schurink and Keaton Bartlett are returning from last year’s silver-medalist team at the Canadians. New to this year we have added local talent Dylan West, Brett Vandendool, Nathan Brenneman, and from the Tavistock U-17 team, Marshall McKay.”
Other Merchants include Drayton Howell (Owen Sound), Ben Redmond (Chatsworth), Lander Hartley (Shallow Lake), Jack Kivell (Chatsworth), Dakota
McComb (Chatsworth), Reese Martin (Teeswater), Jack Myles (Wiarton) and Kalib Stonefish (Chatham).
“We are so fortunate that guys want to come to Tavistock and become a part of our program. It’s very refreshing knowing the players want to come here,” Zehr said.
Other top teams for the 2026 season include the New Hamburg Mustangs, who finished third last year at the Canadians and have the majority of their team returning, as well as teams from Saskatchewan, Quebec, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland.
“As far as league competition, the Tavistock Hops are four-time champions, which is setting the standard for the rest of the league,” added Zehr.
The Mustangs had a good start to the season at the same tournament. In Game 1, the Mustangs jumped out to an early 8-1 lead against the hosts from Innerkip before holding on for an 8-5 victory. Sean Demerest took the win on the mound, while Coby Ricketts and Cohen Christner led the offence with three hits each.
Next up was the Elmira Expos as New
Hamburg scored four times in the first inning, including home runs by Demerest and Matt Van De Wynckle, on their way to an 8-0 win. Jared Vosper pitched a five-inning shutout.
In Game 3, the Mustangs scraped out a 3-1 win against Puslinch. Cohen Christner picked up the win, while Trent Agnello led the offence with two hits.
The final round robin game was against the Georgian Bay Giants. In a tight pitcher's duel, New Hamburg only had two hits, but one was a home run by Demerest, who also pitched a shutout in the 1-0 victory. With a 4-0 record, the Mustangs were again matched up with Georgian Bay in an A semi-final game. Another pitcher's duel occurred as Cohen Christner kept the Giants hitless through four innings, but Georgian Bay finally broke through in the final inning for a 3-0 victory.
The powerhouse Chippewa Chiefs took the A division championship with a 3-1 victory over the Giants.
Youth soccer season underway in Shakespeare
Soccer continues to grow in popularity across Perth County and beyond, and Shakespeare is no exception as hundreds of local youth take part in organized sports programs this spring and summer.
With international attention turning toward upcoming World Cup matches in Toronto, Vancouver and other North American cities, interest in the sport continues to increase among young players throughout the region.
Many years ago, members of the Optimist Club of Shakespeare recognized the need for a local soccer field where area youth could play close to home.
Today, the Shakespeare Community Athletic Association (SCAA) continues to organize soccer and softball programs each year to provide local children with opportunities to participate in organized sports.
SCAA member Deb Bell said the association has 11 organized ball teams this season along with a pair of soccer teams and eight learn-to-play programs.
In total, more than 250 youth are participating in organized sports through the association this year.
Volunteers with the SCAA continue to play an important role in organizing leagues, maintaining facilities and ensuring local youth have opportunities to stay active and involved in community sports.
Youth from Shakespeare and surrounding area enjoy an evening of soccer at the Optimist soccer field in Shakespeare Park. Volunteers with the Shakespeare Community Athletic Association have helped organize local soccer and softball programs for area youth for many years.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Local auctioneer wins Canadian livestock auctioneering championship
Gazette Correspondent
Anyone who has attended a livestock, farm or estate auction in the Mitchell area has likely heard David Jacob’s rapid-fire chant echoing across the sale ring.
Now, the longtime auctioneer has the national title to prove just how skilled he is behind the microphone.
Jacob recently won the Canadian Livestock Auctioneering Championship in Maple Creek, Sask., competing against 41 other auctioneers from across the country.
Raised in Perth County between Stratford and Sebringville, Jacob grew up around auctions while accompanying his father, longtime Perth County auctioneer Doug Jacob, to sales throughout the region.
Auctioneering quickly became a passion.
David Jacob recalls getting his start at just 13 years old when another auctioneer helping his father became delayed in traffic. Despite concerns he was too young, David Jacob stepped into the ring and began selling.
“The rest is history,” Doug Jacob said with a smile.
Unlike many auctioneers who attend formal auction schools, David Jacob said he learned the trade through hands-on experi-
learning how to pick up bids while working alongside experienced auctioneers. He also spent time working with wellknown auctioneer Dave Carson near Listowel to further develop his skills.
Over the years, both Doug and David Jacob have become well known not only for their auctioneering abilities, but also for their support of charitable causes throughout the region.
Both men have received the Paul Harris Award, Rotary International’s highest honour, in recognition of the many charity auctions they have managed and auctioned free of charge over the years.
Doug Jacob said his own career began decades ago while working alongside notable local auctioneers including Stratford’s Franklin Buuck, Hickson’s Wally Ross and Tavistock’s Joe Zehr before founding Doug Jacob Auctions in Mitchell in the early 1970s.
David Jacob took over the family business in 2011 and has remained in high demand ever since.
Today, he regularly auctions at Brussels Livestock, Ontario Stockyards in Cookstown and Hoard’s Station Sales Barn, while also selling vehicles each week in Brampton and Ayr.
In addition to commercial work, David Jacob continues to support numerous community and fundraising auctions including Lions club events, Stratford Agricultural Society fundraisers, the annual Amish school sale, Hickson Lions Daze and many Mitchell-area charitable auctions.
Jacob Auctions also hosts four major consignment equipment auctions annually at its Mitchell yard.
Mitchell auctioneer David Jacob accepts the Canadian Livestock Auctioneering Championship plaque from Shayla Chappell of the Canadian Shorthorn Association following the May 10 competition in Maple Creek, Sask.
GARY WEST
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. busy helping farmers with spring crop protection
growing.
Spring continues to be one of the busiest times of year for farmers across Perth, Oxford and Waterloo counties, and the team at Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. is working long days to help area growers protect their crops during the critical early stages of the growing season.
Located east of Amulree at Mennonite Corners, Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. has been busy spraying wheat, corn and soybean fields throughout the three-county area as farmers work around changing weather conditions to get crops planted and
Like many farmers across the region, custom applicators are balancing long days in the field with unpredictable spring weather.
“There are days you just learn how to juggle everything,” Silver Creek owners Will Sebben and Patrick Miller said. “You have to spray different crops at the optimum time depending on the weather and the stage of the crop.”
Last week, ideal weather conditions allowed operators with the New Hamburgarea company to spray wheat fields for weeds from daylight until dark.
Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. currently operates
several spray rigs and employs seven fulltime staff members along with three seasonal employees to help ensure crops are sprayed at the proper stage for optimum weed control.
In addition to custom application work, the company also operates as a Dekalb seed dealer along with carrying Northrup King (NK), SeCan and C&M seed products.
Sebben said winter wheat across much of Perth, Oxford and Waterloo counties appears to have wintered well and is looking strong this spring.
He estimated between 75 and 85 per cent of the region’s corn crop has now been planted, while approximately 20 to 30 per
cent of soybeans are in the ground. The planting of coloured beans is expected to begin soon, while dairy farmers throughout the area have already started cutting high-protein triticale and ryegrass for feed.
Thanks to recent beautiful weather with warm, dry conditions, by the end of the week, 95 per cent of the corn is now in the ground and close to 75 per cent of soy beans have been planted, with more warm weather expected.
More information about Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. can be found at info@silvercreekag.ca.
NEAT club members brave cool weather for Tavistock breakfast stop
Cool, damp weather did not stop members of the NEAT (North Easthope Antique Tractor) Club from making their annual breakfast trip to Quehl’s in Tavistock last Thursday.
While some members arrived by vehicle because of the chilly conditions, several dedicated antique-tractor enthusiasts still made the trip aboard their vintage machines, bundled up in heavy coats, long underwear and even snowmobile suits.
Among them was longtime member Laverne Gingerich of Mornington, near New Hamburg, who arrived driving his restored Allis-Chalmers WC rowcrop tractor.
The tractor, estimated to have around 30 belt
horsepower, was a popular machine during and after the Second World War. Early models were equipped with steel wheels before rubber tires became more widely available following wartime rubber shortages.
Approximately 178,000 Allis-Chalmers WC tractors were built between 1933 and 1948 in West Allis, Wis., helping many farms recover and modernize following the Great Depression.
Gingerich said he grew up farming with AllisChalmers tractors including the WC, WD and WD-45 models and still enjoys driving the vintage machines to the various breakfast destinations visited by the club each week.
Now in his 80s, Gingerich remains one of the club’s enthusiastic regulars.
Winter wheat in South Easthope Township had reached the ideal stage for weed control spraying last week. Operators with Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. walk fields before spraying to determine what weeds need to be controlled.
With a 120-foot spray pattern, operators with Silver Creek Ag. Ltd. made quick work of a wheat field in southern Perth County under calm, blue skies the day before a rainfall.
GARY WEST Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTOS)
Laverne Gingerich proudly displays his restored Allis-Chalmers WC tractor while attending the NEAT Club breakfast gathering at Quehl’s in Tavistock last Thursday. Despite the cool weather, several members still made the trip aboard their antique tractors.
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
Restored Ford tractor to be auctioned at Mennonite Relief Sale
A beautifully restored Ford row-crop tractor will soon be heading to the auction block as part of the annual Mennonite Relief Sale in New Hamburg on May 30.
The Ford 960 tractor, which looks and runs like new despite its age, will be sold to the highest bidder both in person and online through HiBid during the annual fundraiser supporting Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).
Produced between 1954 and 1957, the Ford 960 was considered an advanced
tractor for its era and featured many options farmers appreciated at the time, including live PTO, hydraulics, power steering and a five-speed transmission.
Rated at approximately 43 horsepower, the tractor replaced the popular Ford 8N model and remains a favourite among antique tractor collectors today.
With very low hours, the restored machine is expected to attract plenty of interest from collectors and vintage farm-equipment enthusiasts attending the sale.
The tractor was donated in support of the Mennonite Relief Sale and the charitable work of MCC around the world.
SWIFT
Looking for a little speed and a whole lot of love? Meet Swift, a lively, affectionate pup who truly lives up to her name! She’s always ready for adventure, whether it’s a long walk, a game of fetch, or zooming around with joy.
After the fun, Swift is all about the snuggles. This sweet girl loves being close to her people and will happily soak up every cuddle and belly rub. Swift is a chatty companion who isn’t shy about sharing her excitement, making her perfect for a family who appreciates a little personality!
If you’re active, loving, and ready for a loyal best friend, Swift is waiting to meet you! She’s available at our Stratford Centre and you can find her here: https://kwsphumane.ca/adopt/dogs
SPONSORED BY:
Sponsored
When Herb Enns of Leamington learned about the North Easthope Antique Tractor Club’s efforts to donate tractors in support of the annual Mennonite Relief Sale in New Hamburg, he wanted to help. Enns donated this restored Ford 960 tractor, which will be auctioned May 30 in support of Mennonite Central Committee.
(GARY WEST PHOTO)
GARY WEST
Gazette Correspondent
Decoding dandruff: Are there any natural solutions available?
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold
Question:
I have dandruff. I tried using medicated shampoos, but they smell so strong and irritated my scalp. Is there a natural way to get rid of this condition?
Approximately 50 per cent of the global adult population suffers from this common scalp condition at least once in their life according to Wikipedia. Nobody wants to endure dandruff, especially those with dark hair and a wardrobe of black clothing. Dandruff can leave you feeling self-conscious, but what is it exactly?
Dandruff is a skin condition with symptoms ranging from flaking to itchiness and, in more severe cases, inflammation occurs. Dandruff often occurs at the onset of puberty, but the underlying issue relates to the excessive growth of skin cells.
There’s no link to poor hygiene, but dandruff can worsen in the winter.
Over-the-counter shampoos containing salicylic acid, ketoconazole, selenium sulfide and coal tar are common ingredients. Zinc pyrithione, a common ingredient here in Canada, has been banned in the EU since 2022. Each ingredient targets a specific symptom from severe itching to stubborn flaking. Some are recommended just once or twice weekly while some are for daily maintenance. Keep in mind, skin is our largest organ making chemicals a little scary to this holistichealth advocate. Many natural health experts would agree that a nutrient-dense diet high in healthy fats is the first line of defense against dandruff. For
those plant-based, focus on eating a wide array of raw nuts, seeds and avocados. Otherwise, coldwater fatty fish such as mackerel, trout, wild-caught salmon and anchovies are astounding additions to menu planning.
A 2024 review found probiotics may deter dandruff due to their antifungal and antimicrobial effects in the gut. Fermented foods such as kimchi, tempeh and unpasteurized sauerkraut or dill pickles are nature’s probiotics.
Selenium and vitamin A are two supplements assisting in dandruff prevention and relief as well. Vitamin A is abundant in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables plus organ meats and eggs. Brazil nuts are a sensational source of selenium.
Let’s get dandruff under control. Start your dandruff protocol with an all-natural exfoliant. Baking soda acts as an anti-fungal according to a 2024 review. Just combine with water, mix it into a paste and rub on areas of concern. Gently scrub the scalp to remove flakes and rinse thoroughly in the shower. Next step is washing the hair. My favourite recommendation for clients is unpasteurized apple cider vinegar (ACV), holistic happiness inside and out. Not
only is it a modern-day miracle for the gut, but ACV is also an ancient remedy for all things topically. ACV is a sensational skin support. Unpasteurized apple cider vinegar is acidic and by adding just a few tablespoons to your favorite natural shampoo, I have found it to dramatically reduce dryness. Moisturize the areas of concern. Coconut oil helps improve skin hydration by minimizing flakiness but thanks to anti-fungal properties, it’s also preventive. Aloe vera gel is a great go-to
for reducing inflammation. And last but not least, chemical-free hair products containing the Australian herbal helper, tea tree oil, which work wonders. Never apply the oil directly to the skin but rather add a few drops to your favorite carrier oil and, ta-da, soothing skin salve.
Dandruff flakes are pesky but the problem may be resolved with a little help from Mother Nature.
Consult with a physician before making any changes to your health and wellness regime.
Our second year of home upgrades are underway
FROM THE EDITOR'S DESK
By Galen Simmons
As I sit here typing out this editorial at the last minute before the paper goes to press – as I always seem to do – everything around me is a little chaotic.
We have contractors ripping out our upstairs bathroom so it can be cleaned of black mold – a lovely little surprise the previous home-
owners neglected to inform us of – before it can be expanded and reconstructed into more of an ensuite bathroom.
In addition to redoing the bathroom, the same contractors will be redoing our flooring and subflooring upstairs. There are parts of the subflooring that have clear-
ly rotted over the years and need to be shored up, ideally before I stick my foot through the floor in the middle of night.
The contractors will also be working to remove several support pillars upstairs that were installed, again by the previous owners, to support the roof long after they decided to turn two bedrooms into one without replacing the load-bearing wall with any other kind of support.
Again, that was something we didn’t find out about until months after we purchased the home. An inspector told us at the time of the sale that the support posts would be fine for the short term, but it would be something we would need to deal with sooner than later.
At the same time as all of that, we are having our backyard redone. We’re looking at establishing a firepit and seating area, a shallow deck and outdoor dining space, and bother perimeter gardens and a keyhole garden for vegetables.
There are other stages to the plan – maybe a hot tub down the road – but this is the first phase, and we do have a bit of a quick deadline for this work. The plan is to have it done by the last weekend in June so we can host our wedding shower in the backyard. Luckily, the contractors we found are confident they can get it done before then.
Fingers crossed!
Finally – and potentially the most exciting part of all of this
– we’re getting central air conditioning installed today! Yes, we waited until it was unbearably hot and we had lost access to our shower before booking an install, but luckily, we were able to get someone here right away thanks to a family connection – and we got a pretty good deal on it, to boot.
For us, especially when it comes to renovations, change seems to happen all at once. Though that does come with its fair share of chaos, it is chaos for the better and sooner than later we will be able to sit back and enjoy the fruit of our short-term inconveniences. Oh yeah. I almost forgot. We’re also planning a wedding for Sept. 5. I guess we’ll just keep this chaos going for a little longer, then.
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
Dandruff flakes can leave sufferers feeling uncomfortable and self-conscious, but natural remedies and a nutrient-rich diet may help keep symptoms under control.
the onions
OH, THE PLACES WE'LL GO
By Paul Knowles
You could easily get the impression that, in Tropea, it’s all about the onions. Well, that’s not the whole story, but the onions do play a big role in this lovely Italian seaside town.
We were in the southern tip of Italy – Calabria – on a Senior Discovery Tours visit. It was a great trip – so good, that we have arranged to repeat the tour next year with a group of friends! So obviously, there were more attractions than just onions.
However, the Tropea onions are actually world-famous among foodies. We first learned about them in the Calabria episode of Stanley Tucci’s television series about food in Italy. He visits Tropea, which is on the western, Terranean Sea coast of Calabria (his ancestral home), and among other taste delights, he eats a sweet, red, Tropea onion like an apple, and claims to enjoy it.
If that makes Tropea sound like a slightly quirky destination, so be it, but I would not have missed it for the world.
Let’s leave the onion fields for a moment, and take in some other, also-quirky features of the town –the cathedral, for example.
I know; I can hear some of you jaded travellers moaning, “Not another cathedral!” And we all know the sentiment.
ters.
The shops of Tropea have an ambience all their own. Several feature very large displays of miniature figures and buildings showing life from ancient times and illustrating crafts that have been lost to history. These displays fill the entire wall space in some shops, and there is no charge to see them – though donation boxes may be in evidence.
Almost every store has a display, for sale this time, of bugeyed, large-nosed ceramic faces guaranteed to ward off the evil eye. I don’t know if they work; I do know they are guaranteed to make you smile. They’re hilarious.
The town itself has its own unique beauty – narrow alleyways hung with flower baskets, ancient archways and doors, shops with their displays spilling out onto the street. In one such store, the shopkeeper spoke not a word of English – and I have no Italian past “vino” – but he still managed to sell me a jar of bruschetta spread, and another of a “mousse” made from –you guessed it – Tropea onions.
Better yet, as an inveterate collector of wildly coloured and patterned socks, I was thrilled to find a reddish-purple pair illustrated with, yep, onions. I wear them with pride.
But the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Romania has at least one feature that, I will admit, I have never encountered elsewhere. Mounted inside the main doors, one on each side, are unexploded World War II bombs. The fact that they landed near the cathedral but did no damage is credited as a miracle to the Madonna, and celebrated by the prominent presence of these devices (now disarmed, thank goodness) inside the cathedral.
The cathedral is genuinely ancient; it was built in 1160 and is dedicated to the Virgin of Romania, patron saint of Tropea. The church design shows Arab and Byzantine influence, and pride of place behind the altar is given to a 13th-century Byzantine icon of the Virgin of Romania. Not only is the Madonna credited with the miracle of the unexploded bombs, she also is deemed responsible for saving Tropea from earthquakes, plagues and other natural disas-
nic island, Stromboli, which rises as a nearly perfect triangle out of the sea.
Our day trip included an additional stop at Pizzo, another seaside town half an hour north of Tropea. There, while there is a castle with an intriguing history and more beautiful views, the highlights were two culinary experiences.
First, we went to a pizzeria for a plethora of genuine Calabrian pizza. The servers just kept bringing pizzas to the table, one kind after another – a delicious, simple Margherita pizza, then ham and mushroom followed by a veggie version with zuchinni, eggplant and more. But the two signature choices were an ‘nduja pizza (‘nduja is a spicy, spreadable pork and chili pepper sausage unique to Calabria) and a tuna and Tropea onion pizza. They were amazing. We were stuffed to the gills. And then they took us for tartuffo – two kinds of gelato moulded around a chocolate centre covered with cocoa and nuts. It turns out we weren’t all that full after all.
Tropea and Pizzo, like Calabria in general, is a very unspoiled part of Italy. Local customs, legends and culinary traditions have survived here, largely intact.
But these are seafront communities with lovely beaches, and our guide admitted that “in summer, Tropea is very, very crowded.” But in the shoulder seasons – the long spring and fall of southern Italy –the tourists are largely absent, but the wonderful features remain and are readily available to delight visitors like us.
And as I mentioned, we are going back.
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. It’s not only about
Tropea is right on the sea, and the town offers some spectacular views of the Mediterranean (The Terranean Sea is just one section of that larger ocean). The view includes the sight of the active volca-
(PAUL KNOWLES PHOTOS)
Unexploded bombs hang near a statue of the Madonna in the Tropea Cathedral, making a miracle of deliverance from harm.
The 13th-century icon of the Virgin of Romania hangs over the altar.
Tropea stores often have displays of miniature characters enacting historic crafts.
A Tropea storefront selling everything unique to Calabria.
Bright planets and a blue moon
BACKYARD ASTRONOMY
By Gary Boyle
The Backyard Astronomer
For thousands of years, the night sky has been a mystical place of wonder and entertainment. Those who followed the sky regularly realized the paths of brighter objects as they traversed the starry background over weeks, months and even years. The early Greeks called them planete, meaning the “wanderers.”
Of the eight main planets of the solar system, we can see Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn with the unaided eye, while Uranus and Neptune are only seen in binoculars and a telescope. Even the sun and moon were also referred to as the wanderers, and these seven are named as the days of the week.
Looking towards the western sky will reward you with seeing the two brightest planets. Brilliant Venus is lower in the sky with the giant planet Jupiter to the upper left. Over the next few weeks, you will see Jupiter appearing a bit lower each night while Venus is moving up due to
its orbit around the sun.
On the night of June 6 and 7, these two will appear side by side. I term these “spooky eyes” as they take on a ghostly appearance in the sky. They are by sight only and do not physically approach each other. These jewels will be 719 million kilometres or 447 million miles apart.
The speed of light circles the Earth seven and a half times in one second. Reflected sunlight from Venus takes over 10 light-minutes to reach our eyes, with a 50 light-minute travel from Jupiter. By comparison, Saturn is now visible in the early morning sky and is 85 light-minutes away.
A much closer object – the moon is only 1.3 light-seconds from us. As we follow the lunar phases over the months from a thin waxing crescent low in the west to first quarter (looks like a capital D), waxing gibbous (eggshaped) and then full phase when the sun illuminates it 100 per cent. Then we have a waning gib-
bous, third quarter (backwards capital D) and waning crescent. Although spectacular in the sky, it is the worst night for stargazing as moonlight washes out the sky for all but the brightest of stars.
Each full moon has been given a name to address seasonal change, such as the “Cold Moon” in December and the “Strawberry Moon” in June. With an average of 29.5 days lapsing between full phases, some months will have two full moons, the second of which is termed the “Blue Moon.” Since the full Flower
Moon occurred on May 1, the next full moon will be on May 31. The moon will not physically turn blue, but by name only.
It should be another great year to plan stargazing sessions in the countryside, at the cottage or campgrounds, preferably during a New Moon. Here you can marvel at a couple of thousand stars and the lovely Milky Way, our home galaxy. The night sky is a wonderful classroom.
Clear skies, Known as “The Backyard Astronomer,” Gary Boyle is an as-
tronomy educator, guest speaker and previous monthly columnist for the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada (RASC), as well as past president of the Ottawa Centre of the RASC. He has been interviewed on numerous Canadian and U.S. radio stations as well as in newspaper articles. In recognition of his public outreach in astronomy, the International Astronomical Union has honoured him with the naming of Asteroid (22406) Garyboyle. Follow him on Facebook and his website: www.wondersofastronomy.com.
Optimist Club of Downie Inc.
Thirsty throats and thrifty rooms, Tavistock circa 1915
VINTAGE VIEWS
By Tim Mosher Tavistock and District Historical Society
The April 23 Vintage Views article was about photographer John “Jack” Lemp's picture that he took from atop the tall, new water tower in Tavistock in 1912. It showed the centre of the growing village in the foreground including the second Commercial Hotel and the forests and farmlands beyond.
The May 7 article concentrated on the Commercial Hotel corner with four photos illustrating the original neo-classical building circa 1914, the grandiose three-storey structure circa 1918 and the greatly renovated and shrunken building that became Meisner's gas station circa 1934 and then Schaefer's Sunoco service station and lunch counter from 1945-1975 showing elements of the original Commercial Hotel. The fourth was a colour photo that showed what this wide corner looks like today with an Esso station, Subway, Hasty Mart and New Orleans Pizza.
The Canadian Graphic wrote in 1905 that the Commercial was "well equipped having hot-wa-
ter heating (and) a private water system. For the commercial trade (Mr. Jung) has three large sample rooms thoroughly equipped. There are forty-three bedrooms ... and the dining room seats fifty guests. The bar is most elaborate. The hotel is lighted through-out by electricity.”
The Commercial was on prime real estate in Tavistock, on the northwest corner of the main intersection. Passengers stepping off the train at the railway station were within sight of the hotel, only a few steps north of it, so rooms were let to one and all, in competition with the Arlington Hotel a short distance away as well as the Oxford Hotel.
In this article, we'll have a close look at the bar of the Commercial Hotel, about 110 years ago. It's an overtly masculine design but that's not surprising because alcohol in all its forms was largely a man's beverage at the time. From the 1930s to the 1970s, Ontario instituted men's and ladies with escorts separate beverage rooms
and entrances, which is after this picture was taken. It's unlikely too that this photo dates from between 1916 and 1927 because the Ontario government enacted prohibition, which banned the sale of alcohol stronger than 2.5 per cent as a wartime measure and to prevent the spread of venereal diseases, says one source. I figure this last point merits research and a future Vintage Views article.
The rich details of this image reveal tastes, interests and designs of the time. Look closely above the central mirror and you'll see a large pair of bull's horns. Below that is a reflection of a buck's stuffed head. There are four pistols – real or not isn't known – hanging by strings or wires against the beveled mirrors. Steins, bills nailed to the right cabinet and what appear to be beer bottles fill the upper spaces. On the far left might be a water or bulk wine dispenser with glasses on top. A big, brassy cash register is on Mr. Jung's left with an illegible sign on its top. Three beer-tap handles are at the ready in front of Mr. Loth. The heavy wooden cabinetry and literal bar running along the front edge on which to lean and a footrest all speak of an era gone by in the early hospitality industry over a century ago. What will people think some 110 years in the future when they look at photos of the interior of Ontario bars of 2026?
The last article’s History Mystery: The question was "Why is there a pince-nez in one of the
The rich details of a local Edwardian bar are revealed here. The proprietor, Otto Jung, is standing on the left and his portrait hangs in the top-centre. Barmen Ezra Loth is centre and John Evans is on the right. Their wing-tip collars, extra wide tie knots and vests with watch chains were all fashionable at the time.
four pictures?" Pince-nez are two French words ("pance nay") that are commonly used in English to describe a design of eyeglasses that were popular from about 1875 to 1910. This literally translates to "pinch-nose" because they don't have temple arms over the ears. They stay in position by gently pinching the bridge of the nose. Pince-nez were worn by American President Theodore Roosevelt and untold others. In the 1918 photo of the hotel, there's an oversized pince-nez on top of a post advertising an optometrist's shop on the corner, just out of sight of the camera. The first reader to answer this correctly was Connie
Hitzeroth of Tavistock. She wrote that the pince-nez "was an advertisement that one could buy a pair of these reading glasses at the adjacent store." Nicely observed, Connie!
This week’s History Mystery: It's difficult to say for sure but there appears to be some subtle, ironic humour in this photo, likely the idea of either the barmen or the photographer. What is it? The first reader to send me the correct answer will have their name and community name or rural route number published with the next Vintage Views article in two weeks.
Planting more trees at the Mannheim Carolinian Corner
MARLENE KNEZEVICH
Let’s Tree Wilmot
Yellowwood, shagbark hickory, spicebush, hazelnut, and black oak are a few of the Carolinian species of trees and shrubs Let’s Tree Wilmot (LTW) will be planting this Saturday in Wilmot’s Mannheim Carolinian corner.
In April, Let’s Tree Wilmot’s first planting here, about 40 community volunteers planted mostly bareroot stock from our seedling bed. This planting will use oneand two-gallon potted nursery stock. Easy digging in this sand/gravel of 1.85 hectares (4.6 acres) tucked in the northwest corner of Mannheim north of Milne Drive.
"This is going to be a beautiful forest in the years to come, with blooming trees, edible nuts and distinctive trees," said Dean Peachey, Let’s Tree Wilmot’s project chair.
Wilmot Township will be installing a trail in the future.
LTW has dubbed this project, “Mannheim Carolinian Corner.” Southern Ontario has a Carolinian Forest Zone south of an imaginary line that runs approximately from
Grand Bend to Toronto. The Carolinian Zone is the most diverse and fragile ecoregion of Canada, the smallest forest region, amounting to just one per cent of the country’s landmass. The Carolinian Zone has the highest diversity of wild species and number of species at risk in Canada.
By planting species that are typically south of us, called assisted migration, we are helping nature along. In the natural world, plants would migrate north over time but there are barriers such as cities, towns, agricultural fields and the 401 highway that block the movement of seeds and plants.
The Mannheim Carolinian Corner must have drought-tolerant species growing due to the sand and gravel soil. In other Wilmot plantings with moist conditions, we have planted Tulip trees, our native Magnolia or Cucumber tree, Kentucky Coffee Tree and others. In the Corner, we are also planting trees/shrubs familiar to our forests such as white pine, red and sugar Maple, ninebark, ironwood, thorny honey locust and others.
The most recent Green Communities Canada grant awarded to Let’s Tree Wilmot (a Garden Wilmot project) for
the value of $67,240 covers two years of planting and one year of maintenance. Further tree planting and tree maintenance initiatives are carried out by way of the Enova Reforestation grant the township generously receives annually; this advances long-term community and environmental sustainability goals.
Join Let’s Tree Wilmot/Garden Wilmot to grow a special habitat for Wilmot Township on Saturday, May 23, from 9 a.m. to noon. This is the last tree-planting event of the spring season. For details and registration, visit letstreewilmot.ca/events. Bring the whole family. There are snacks and camaraderie!
(PHOTO BY JOHN “JACK” LEMP)
Volunteers with Let’s Tree Wilmot and community members work to plant trees at the Manheim Carolinian Corner at the site’s first planting event in April.
COURTESY
Rare old machine among The Glasgow Warehouse Storefront Display
The next time you are in Tavistock, take a big step back in time and take a long look at the storefront window at Tavistock Home Hardware, located in the red-brick building at the centre of town, 24 Woodstock St. S.
Members of the Tavistock and District Historical Society (TDHS) have replicated the storefront to look like it did back in 1874 when the building was called The Glasgow Warehouse, owned and operated by Mr. Fred Krug, one of the oldest importers in Western Ontario, buying large shipments in bulk, always paying in cash
and passing the savings on to his customers. Mr. Krug built and operated this successful mercantile business for 43 years (1874-1917).
The front window is filled with vintage coloured coal oil and kerosene lamps, pickle cruets, candle holders, covered compote, biscuit jars, cranberry dishes and flow blue platters. Treasured souvenirs in the display are plates, bowls and pitchers given to loyal customers at Christmas painted with “Compliments of F. Krug” and dated between 1910 and 1913.
A cylinder Edison gramophone complete with horn is also showcased in the storefront along with a photocopied ballot from a gramophone bean contest held at
OPP investigating ATV theft in Perth East
WILMOT-TAVISTOCK GAZETTE STAFF
thewtgazette@gmail.com
The Perth County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are requesting the public's assistance as they investigate the theft of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in the Township of Perth East.
On May 10, shortly after 2 a.m., police say a vehicle and two people of interest entered onto a property located on Perth Line 33 west of Perth Road 107 and stole an ATV.
The ATV is described as a red 2022 Honda Rubicon 520 CTR. It has a torn seat with tape on it and a homemade front tow bar.
Police are looking to identify the vehicle and two people of interest involved in this incident.
the warehouse in the 1900s. To repeat this type of contest, a large jar filled with jellybeans is located beside the gramophone. Be sure to guess the number of jellybeans in the jar by filling out a ballot located at the counter in Tavistock Home Hardware. The winner (person guessing closest to the number of jellybeans in the jar) will receive a copy of the book Crossroads in Time, a pictorial history of Tavistock & Community (1890-1920), featuring photos from The Lemp Studio Collection donated by TDHS.
A very unique and rare item on loan in the display is a fruit-cleaning machine patented in the late 1800s that was used at the Glasgow Warehouse 152 years ago. This machine cleaned shipments of small fruit such as raisins and currants. By turning the crank, the raisins moved through a series of brushes in the second section
to thoroughly clean and remove the stems. This fruit was then sold in bulk.
From a 1967 Free Press - Stratford Bureau newspaper clipping, it was recently discovered that Clarence Diehl, from Tavistock, preserved this machine and put it on display at the 1967 Tavistock Home and School Association Antique Show that featured more than 800 antique items. A guest at the show, a curator, from the U.S. Ford Museum travelling from Dearborn, Mich., was interested in buying it for their museum, but was unsuccessful. This unique piece of history has changed hands a few times but has always remained in Tavistock for the community to view on special occasions such as this.
Special thanks to the owners and staff at Tavistock Home Hardware for allowing the TDHS to use their storefront to showcase The Glasgow Warehouse.
Police say the first person of interest is a man, approximately six feet tall and wearing a hooded jacket. The second person of interest is a man, approximately six feet tall and wearing a reflective hooded jacket.
Police describe the vehicle of interest as a blue Dodge Ram pickup truck with a crew or extended cab towing a dual-axle, white enclosed trailer.
Police are requesting anyone who may have information or video footage related to this investigation to contact the Perth County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or visit hpcrimestoppers.ca where tipsters may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
The Glasgow Warehouse, in the centre of Tavistock, 24 Woodstock St. S, owned and operated by Mr. Fred Krug from 1874-1917. Mr. Krug is shown on the steps along with his many employees who grace the elegant verandah, and his three sons stand at left between the first two pillars – left to right, Fred Krug Jr., Dr. Henry Stewart Krug and John Henry Krug. Take note of the oil and kerosene lamps and chinaware in the front window.
The front window of Tavistock Home Hardware replicating the Glasgow Warehouse circa 1892. This is another vintage display by the Tavistock and District Historical Society to showcase local heritage.
MARILYN PEARSON
Tavistock and District Historical Society
(PHOTO FROM THE LEMP STUDIO COLLECTION)
(MARILYN PEARSON PHOTO)
SATURDAY, MAY 23
Let's Tree Wilmot Tree Planting
9 a.m. - 12 noon
Full details at https://letstreewilmot.ca/events/ Milne Drive, Mannheim
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Taste the Culture: Spring Around the World
Join us for a special event with entertainers, food trucks, local vendors, crafts for children and culture and educational tables. All ages welcome. Free admission.
Bill Gies Recreation Centre 1401 Queens Bush Rd, Wellesley
Let's Tree Wilmot Saturday Strolls in Sylvan Splendor
1:30 - 3 p.m.
Full details at https://letstreewilmot.ca/events/ Schmidt Woods, NH
Free concert hosted by Oasis Mennonite Church. For more info contact Richard Bean 226-339-0781
Presented at Steinmann Mennonite Church 1316 Snyder's Road W, Baden
MONDAY, MAY 25
Food Trucks at Grace United Church Tavistock
4:30-7:30 p.m.
El Milagro, Wild Boar, Fo Cheezy, Beavertails Donations to Grace United Church 116 Woodstock St. S. Tavistock Wilmot Council meeting
7-10 p.m. Council chambers 60 Snyder’s Road W., Baden
TUESDAY, MAY 26
Get Pumped!
7:00 p.m.
The Nith Valley EcoBoosters are hosting a free information session about heat pumps with local experts. More information at nvecoboosters.com Wilmot Rec Complex 1291 Nafziger Road, Baden
Plattsville & District Heritage Society
7:00 p.m.
Growing Stronger Together in celebration of Plattsville's 175. Liz Dommasch from Oxford County Archives will share stories of Plattsville and the surrounding area. Free. Refreshments. Peace United, 20 Samuel Street, Plattsville Oxford Philatelic Society Stamp Club
7-9 p.m.
Meet new friends, grow your knowledge and collection.
Contact: Don Eaton dhfe@silomail.com
Website: http://www.rpsc.org/chapters/oxford Church of the Epiphany 560 Dundas Street, Woodstock
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27
Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship
12 p.m.
Please register by May 22 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900 Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood
SATURDAY, MAY 30
The Nith Valley EcoBoosters Repair Café
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Skilled volunteer fixers will be on hand for mechanical, woodworking, sewing, mending, knitting, crocheting, jewelry and book repairs. Contact us at: nvebrepaircafe@gmail.com or check out www.nvecoboosters.com
Zion United Church, 215 Peel St., New Hamburg
TUESDAY, JUNE 2
Perth East council meeting
7 p.m.
Council chambers 25 Mill Street East, Milverton
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3
East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting
9 a.m.
Council Chambers 89 Loveys Street East, Hickson
SATURDAY, JUNE 6
World Crokinole Championship
All day
Competitors will compete for the prestigious title of greatest crokinole player on the planet, at the 25th edition of the World Crokinole Championship. Website: worldcrokinole.com
Spectators are welcome and can watch for free. Tavistock & District Recreation Centre 1 Adam St, Tavistock
MONDAY, JUNE 8
Food Trucks at Grace United Church Tavistock
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Berlin 95, Los Rolling Tacos, Born2Eat, Fo Cheezy
Donations to Camp Bimini 116 Woodstock St. S. Tavistock
TUESDAY, JUNE 9
Wellesley Council meeting
6:45 p.m.
Council chambers
4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10
Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship
12 p.m.
Please register by June 5 by calling
519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900
Wellesley Recreation Complex, 1401 Queen’s Bush Rd., Wellesley
SATURDAY, JUNE 13
Shakespeare’s 79th Annual Field Day and Fish Fry
Festivities begin at 8 a.m.
Parade theme is “Life’s a Beach”. Shakespeare Firefighters Breakfast, Mini Kids Midway, and Fish Fry and lots more. More info and tickets for Fish Fry - call Deb at 519-276-8109.
SCAA Park and Optimist Hall Shakespeare, ON
MONDAY, JUNE 15
Food Trucks at Grace United Church Tavistock
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Wild Boar, El Milagro, Pablas Street of India, Beavertails
Donations to Grace United Church 116 Woodstock St. S. Tavistock
TUESDAY, JUNE 16
Perth East council meeting
7 p.m.
Council chambers
25 Mill Street East, Milverton
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17
Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship
12 p.m.
Please register by June 12 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900
Wilmot Rec Complex, 1291 Nafziger Rd, Baden
East Zorra-Tavistock Council meeting
7 p.m.
Council Chambers
89 Loveys Street East, Hickson
THURSDAY, JUNE 18
Tavistock Mens Club Meeting Dinner at 6.15 p.m.
Welcome to attend. Phone: 519-655-3573 Website: tavistockmensclub.ca
78 Woodstock St N
SATURDAY, JUNE 20
Plattsville's 175 Anniversary Celebration
10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Join us for: Firefighter Breakfast 10 a.m., Heritage Displays 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Portraits of Honour, 12 noon Parade, Opening Ceremony 1 p.m., Car & Tractor Show 1-4 p.m., Live Music & Entertainment 2-10 p.m., Kids Activities, Vendor Market, Lions BBQ and the grand finale, an 18 minute Drone Show at 9:45 p.m. Free admission. Fun for all ages. Thanks to our Platinum Sponsors - Canadian Heritage and North Blenheim Mutual Insurance celebrating 165 years. www.plattsvilledistrictheritagesociety. com
Plattsville Park and Arena
68 Mill St E, Plattsville
Tavistock & District Historical Society Museum Open 1-4 p.m. (other times by appointment) Email: info@tavistockhistory.ca or call 519-6553334. All welcome.
37 Maria Street, Tavistock
MONDAY, JUNE 22
Food Trucks at Grace United Church Tavistock
4:30-7:30 p.m.
Berlin 95, Born2Eat, El Milagro, Ish n Chips Donations to TAP, Tavistock Assistance Program 116 Woodstock St. S. Tavistock
Garden Wilmot visits Deep Purple Lavender Farm.
6:30 p.m.
Join us for a guided walk of the farm, nestled in a scenic valley with a wooded ravine, located south of Embro. FREE for GW members. For more info: https://wilmothortsociety.ca
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24
Community Care Concepts Lunch and Fellowship 12 p.m.
Please register by June 19 by calling 519-664-1900 or Toll Free: 1-855-664-1900 Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood
SATURDAY, JUNE 27
5 Corners Summer Sips - Tavistock Fall Fair Fundraiser
2 p.m. to Midnight
Get ready for a full-blown summer party with craft brews, food trucks and live music. Familyfriendly event. Kids 12 and under free. Visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/5corners-summer-sips for tickets. Early bird ticket special until June 1.
Tavistock & District Recreation Centre 1 Adam St, Tavistock
FREE SENIORS ACTIVITIES
Tavistock Seniors Pickleball
Monday, Wednesday & Friday 12-4 p.m.
Contact: Don Junker 519-535-7052
Tavistock Memorial Hall, 1 Adam St.
Tavistock Seniors Card Games Monday drop in 1-4 p.m.
Contact: Bob Routly 519-301-2118
Tavistock Memorial Hall, 1 Adam St.
VON Senior Exercise Drop-In Standing Class Tuesday and Thursday 9-10 a.m.
To register contact 519-539-1231 ext. 6319
Tavistock Memorial Hall, 1 Adam St. VON Senior Exercise Drop-In Sitting Class Tuesday and Thursday 10:25-11:25 a.m.
To register contact 519-539-1231 ext. 6319
Village Manner, 98 Woodstock St., Tavistock
TAVISTOCK & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM DISPLAYS
Museum Display: "25th Tournament of the Tavistock World Crokinole Championship". Open 7 days a week until June 22
Tavistock & District Recreation Centre (arena lobby), 2 Adam Street, Tavistock Museum Display: "The Glasgow Warehouse" Can be viewed anytime
Tavistock Home Hardware (Front window), 24 Woodstock Street S., Tavistock Museum Display: “Heritage of Hickson Post Office”
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:30 pm runs until July 13
EZT Township Administration Building (lobby), 89 Loveys Street, Hickson
PLATTSVILLE & DISTRICT HERITAGE SOCIETY
Plattsville & District Heritage Society exhibit "Holidays & Celebrations That Bring Us Together"
June 6 to September 19 | Saturdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Donations accepted. Refreshments. Contact plattsvilledistrictheritage@gmail.com or call 519.535.1417.
Archive & Museum at Chesterfield, 816661 Oxford Rd 22, Bright
CLASSIFIED ADS
FOR SALE
2014 Forrest River Chaparral 5th wheel trailer Model 266SAB, $16,000. Or best offer.
2015 Ram Truck with Denco Hijacker 5th wheel hitch with auto slide and air lift load 5000. 4 wheel drive $15,000. Or best offer. Please call 519-469-3760 between 5 and 7 pm
FOR SALE
Shade Trees; Maples, Oaks, Birch, Beech, Honey Locusts, Elms, Magnolia, Hydrangea Tree, Tulip Tree, Crab apples, Ivory Silk Lilac, Chanticleer Pear, Golden Weeping Willows and more. Apples, Pears, Peaches, Plums, Apricots, Nectarine, Blueberry, Haskap etc. Lots of healthy strong Spruce, Cedars and White Pine for your privacy hedges and windbreaks. Hundred of flowering shrubs. Reg Hours 7am- 6pm Mon-Sat at Martins Nursery c/o Emanuel Martin. 42661 Orangehill Rd., Wroxeter, ON
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.
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
Garage Sale
YARD SALE AT GRACE UNITED CHURCH TAVISTOCK
JUNE 6, 2026
116 Woodstock St. S. Tavistock
Dishes, books, jewelry, games, toys, knick-knacks, silverware, craft supplies, lamps, materials, china, decorations, small furniture, vintage and collectibles table, electrical appliances, plants and garden décor items
Help Wanted
2026-72
to Thursday, 6:00 a.m. – 4:00
This role includes maintaining culverts, roads, roadsides and safety devices, and performing winter control activities, including snow plow operation. Valid Class D license with Z endorsement is
Apply by May 28, 2026, at 4:00 p.m.
Resumes are only accepted via email at hr@oxfordcounty.ca. Please include the competition number in the
SUBSCRIBE TO THE GAZETTE TO HAVE IT DELIVERED IN YOUR MAIL!
The cost is $75.00 for a year. Payment can be made by:
Cheque mailed to: PO Box 2310, St Marys ON N4X 1A2 OR dropped off at:
D&D Homestyle Cuisine & Café, 8 Woodstock St N, Tavistock OR call: 519-655-2341 with credit card details OR e-transfer: granthavenmedia@gmail.com
CONSTRUCTION DENTAL
HEATING & COOLING
General Contracting - Anything Concrete! www.agcore.ca • bstere@agcore.ca
New Buildings and Renovations. Box 250, Tavistock Ph: 519.655.2355 info@mohrconstruction.com Brian Stere 519-276-1851 Foundations, Floors, Driveways, Patios Drive Sheds, Barns & Bunk Silos
Providing year-round heating and cooling solutions. Servicing, repair, and installation of furnaces, air conditioners, and hot water tanks. Custom ductwork.
