There aren’t many people in the New Hamburg area who don’t know Andy Cook. He has been a staple in the community through sports and raising funds for local organizations, but following a tragic accident, he and his family need help.
On April 10, Cook was in an ATV accident in Fort Worth, Texas, while visiting
a friend. He suffered a substantial blow to the head that caused a small brain bleed.
After multiple CT scans, there was no spreading of the bleed but he was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury.
Cook was transported back to Canada last week and continues the rehabilitation process. The Gazette asked Cook’s brother, Jeremy Cook, how his recovery is going.
“That’s the most-asked question I get,” Jeremy Cook said. “I’ll get a text,
or someone will bump into me on the street and ask how my brother is doing.
Compared to a week ago, he’s really good.
But compared to what he was before the accident, he’s not even close.”
Jeremy Cook said he visited his brother while on a business trip to Texas and admitted it was tough to see him but added his improvement now is noticeable.
“When we were getting ready to see THURSDAY,
A controversial motion to ban flags — including the Rainbow Pride flag — at local Catholic schools was narrowly voted down by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB) on April 28.
Locally, the proposed policy could have affected families and students at Holy Family Catholic Elementary School in New Hamburg.
The motion failed by a 5-4 vote.
Originally introduced in March by trustee Conrad Stanley, the motion would have limited flag displays to only the Canadian flag, the Ontario flag and the school board flag at all schools across the region.
The motion read, in part, “Teaching children that these two flags unite us and represent all of us together equally contributes to the important work of cultivating their patriotism and love for our shared nation, Canada.
“ … Ongoing complaints, protests and delegations from the public show that the practice of flying international, identitybased flags like the rainbow, pride and progress flags remains divisive and unpopular among many Waterloo Catholic parents, constituents and taxpayers.”
Despite explicitly referencing identitybased flags, Stanley said the motion was intended to depoliticize school environments, not to segregate students.
A breathtaking sunset casts pink hues over the boardwalk at the Mike Schout Wetlands Preserve in New Hamburg. The photo, recently shared by Jan Marie Volkers in the Show Us Your Wilmot Facebook group, beautifully captures the natural serenity of this local gem.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF SHOW US YOUR WILMOT)
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
New incentive programs likely to be added to Township of Wellesley Community Improvement Plan
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
After an extensive review of the Township of Wellesley’s 2017 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) and consultation with community stakeholders, the township is posed to add four new financial-incentive programs focused around diversifying housing, supporting agri-tourism, fostering economic growth and promoting sustainability.
At the Township of Wellesley’s committee of the whole meeting April 22, a public meeting was held to solicit feedback from the public and members of council on proposed updates to the township’s existing CIP – a municipal planning tool enabled by the Planning Act that sets out programs, incentives, grants and strategies for improving and revitalizing designated areas of a municipality.
“We talked (with stakeholders) about what’s working with the existing CIP, what needs to change, where would we like to see money invested, where it shouldn’t be and where we should keep investing,” said Nether Planning principal planner Nancy Reid while presenting the updated CIP to council at the April 22 meeting.
“Some of the key takeaways we heard was the previous CIP was focused on Wellesley and St. Clements and maybe there’s an opportunity to open that up. … We heard a lot about sustainability and maybe providing a little bit more money to applicants who go above and beyond what may be required by the building code, or
your official plan, or any existing guidelines. There was a need or a desire to look at agri-tourism and promoting agricultural tourism across the township … beyond St. Clements and Wellesley and looking at the agricultural area. There was a strong, positive reaction to the return on investment from the existing CIP, so we heard, ‘Hey, this is great. Let’s keep … investing and putting money in these programs.
… (There was discussion on) continuing to support the downtown-core areas and also looking at housing – not necessarily affordable housing, but different forms and options … that are inherently, maybe, a little bit more affordable.”
In response to that feedback, the planning consultants updated the CIP’s goals and objectives to reflect the needs of the township, proposed four new incentive programs, developed new evaluation measures corresponding to those goals and objectives, improved design guidelines for projects under each of the existing incentive programs and developed new design guidelines for the construction of additional residential units.
The four new incentive programs proposed for the township’s updated 2025 CIP include:
• Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) Grant: Up to $5,000 per project or property to help construct new, attached or detached ADUs, or to upgrade or renovate an existing, non-compliant ADU to create a legal, conforming ADU, subject to zoning bylaw regulations, in the township’s
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core areas like the downtown areas in the villages of Wellesley, St. Clements and Linwood.
• Agi-tourism Grant: Up to $5,000 per project or property to support the creation of and improvements to properties and buildings used for agritourism, as defined by the Provincial Planning Statement 2024 and provincial guidance.
• Placemaking and Pedestrian Grant: Up to $2,500 per project or property to assist with the activation of underutilized streetscapes to foster a sense of community, encourage social interactions, enhance aesthetic appeal and highlight art and culture.
• Sustainability Top-Up Grant: Up to $500 per project to encourage sustainable building practices, green initiatives and energy efficiency beyond what is required.
“The dollar values are upward limits, so (council) doesn’t necessarily have to give that amount every year; we don’t even have to (open up) every program (each year),” said township director of development services Tim Van Hinte. “ … Every year, maybe twice a year – we haven’t quite baked that out yet – we would come to (council) and say, ‘It’s time to engage the CIP for another year. What programs are you interested in seeing this year? What are you hearing?’
“Maybe staff will have gotten some inquiries by then and they could say, ‘There’s a lot of interest in the agri-tourism piece this year, maybe we should activate that
one?’ You don’t have to do all of these at once; in fact, we haven’t done a lot of these (existing incentive programs) yet. They’re in the plan, but each year, each round, we would activate those and (council) would also set the dollar figure you’re willing to spend on that, coming from the CIP reserve.”
Applications for funding through CIP incentive programs are evaluated by a staff committee consisting of Van Hinte, CAO Rik Louwagie and chief building official Darryl Denny on a first-come, first-served basis. Reid noted applications should be evaluated in a timely manner and projects approved for funding are expected to begin within six months of approval. Funding will be provided after an approved project is substantially complete.
It is anticipated the updated CIP will be implemented over a 10-year period ending Dec. 31, 2035. Council has the option to extend or reduce the implementation period as deemed appropriate or necessary, subject to an amendment to the CIP.
Once staff have incorporated feedback from the public and council into the updated CIP, it will be brought back to council in May for final approval.
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Wilmot
SHOP WILMOT, TAVISTOCK & AREA
For many people, young and old, a trip to the dentist isn’t all smiles.
Though the end result may be a brighter, healthier smile, the hustle and bustle of a traditional dental office can make a visit unpleasant or even downright scary, especially for younger clients. At Wilmot Smiles, Lisa Schaadt – a registered dental hygienist and the owner of an independent dental hygiene clinic situated in the middle of Wilmot Township’s idyllic farm country – says the experience is just as important as the end result.
From the dental chair in Lisa’s bright and cheery front room, clients can look out on her vast farm property as she does her work. She offers dental cleanings, polishings (stain removal), professional teeth whitening, custom sport mouthguards – a big draw for local hockey, football & lacrosse players – denture cleanings, oral-cancer screenings and more.
While working on her clients’ teeth, Lisa makes sure everyone who visits her is as comfortable and relaxed as possible – even her younger clients who may be a little nervous about their visit. Lisa offers services to all ages like babies just getting their first tooth to seniors needing regular routine dental cleanings.
“The biggest thing is keeping things stress free – so making it fun! For my younger clients, I use the ‘tell, show, do’ method, and that’s where Myles, our unofficial mascot, comes into play,” said Lisa, referring to the monkey plushy with the giant smile she uses to demonstrate the work she does for her younger clients. “Myles can help me with that. I’ll say, ‘Let’s open wide,’ and then Myles will demonstrate. Another helpful plan is having parents go first, so their children can see that they are comfortable with everything, so when it comes to their turn, they know what to expect.
“It’s just about taking my time, explaining as I go, making it fun and building a connection.”
For Lisa, opening her own independent dental-hygiene clinic after two decades of working in general family dentistry was about reducing barriers to accessing routine dental care. Lisa’s goal is educating clients that dental hygiene is a self-regulated health profession and that she
can work independently without a dentist present. While her clients can retain their family dentist for anything beyond dental-hygiene needs, coming to see Lisa at Wilmot Smiles offers greater flexibility, personalized care and often reduced costs compared to a traditional dental office. Her clients often comment they are more relaxed, and they enjoy the one-on-one experience and seeing the same dental hygienist every visit!
And as of this month, thanks to the ongoing expansion of the federal government’s Canadian Dental Care Plan, locals of all ages who don’t otherwise have access to dental insurance and meet the income eligibility requirements can or will soon be able to apply to the program and receive affordable dental care, including the dental-hygiene services offered at Wilmot Smiles.
For more information on Wilmot Smiles, visit wilmotsmiles.ca or call 519-580-7425.
Dental hygienist and owner of Wilmot Smiles Lisa Schaadt works on Myles the Monkey, the dental-hygiene clinic’s
GALEN SIMMONS
(PHOTO COURTESY OF WILMOT SMILES)
Three years into EZT’s parks and recreation master plan, what progress has been made?
LEE GRIFFI Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Three years after the Township of East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT) approved a parks and recreation master plan complete, what recommendations have been implemented and how many are currently in the works?
The plan was approved in June of 2022 by EZT council and contained 93 recommendations, 36 of which were described as short-term goals that should be implemented within one to three years. Thirtyfour were mid-term (four to six years) and 23 were long-term (seven to 10 years).
“Of the short-term recommendations, the township has either begun work on or completed 31 of those priorities in the first three years of the master plan,” said EZT CAO Karen DePrest. “The key recommendations were centered around a strategic organizational service delivery whereby the township decided to get into the business of parks-and-recreation service provision and form a dedicated parks and recreation department,” she added.
EZT Mayor Phil Schaefer said the township is moving toward offering programming to residents and added there are more activities available now than compared to three years ago.
“Things like an off-leash dog park, pickleball in three communities, walking, and recreational card playing are examples of
the positive aspects of having committed local volunteers and service clubs providing opportunities. This builds on the successful hockey, ball, soccer and figure-skating programs that have for many years been led by hardworking community members, utilizing township facilities.”
The dog park was created by the Tavistock Optimist Club on its privately owned land and was not a township initiative.
The Gazette asked Schaefer if he felt council and the township had made acceptable progress on the master plan since it was first approved in 2022.
“At the latest meeting council voted to maintain the partnership we have with the Optimist Club for grass cutting at their park. A few meetings earlier, we dealt with summer ice and concerns with the arena. Before that, at budget time, we addressed some recreation-reserve issues and started down the long road toward a multiuse recreation facility and an Innerkip spray pad, both items recommended by the (recreation advisory committee). So, to assert that council is not dealing with recreation around the horseshoe is simply not accurate.”
Former EZT employee Will Jaques was responsible for the township’s park and recreation department for a short time after being named manager of community and recreation services. No reason has been
provided for his departure. The township explained his duties have been assigned to various township staff members. The role will not be replaced.
Schaefer said the staff required to move the master plan forward have been hired through the completion of seven recommendations.
“These-parks and-recreation professionals, both in facilities and parks, were recruited and hired for their expertise and ability to make the township’s parks-and-recreation department successful.
DePrest added the recommendations to hire and staff the department with an “experienced parks-and-recreation professional” was achieved by bringing in parks-and-recreation supervisor Matt Lamers once the contractor model formerly held by Ken Wettlaufer was eliminated.
“The township has also updated its development-charges study to reflect projects that are noted in the parks and rec master plan. We have undertaken a secondary plan which will address park space requirements that support growth and development in EZT. We have addressed pickleball court deficiencies with the lining of the pavilions in all three township parks. The working recommendations document with the status of each will be provided to an upcoming meeting of the recreation advisory committee.”
The master plan contains several guiding
principles, some of which have not been implemented yet. One of them is to utilize technology and existing professional networks to improve communication and service delivery of municipal parks and recreation opportunities.
“Evaluate opportunities to transition to provide online booking services for all facilities (meeting rooms, activity rooms, pavilions, etc.) in a manner that protects the needs of key (consistent) user groups,” was one of the points mentioned in the report.
“Employ an online-payment system to minimize staff involvement and allow for appropriate preparation and setup of rented facilities. Provide annual parks, recreation and cultural online guides and event calendars that are digitally available from the township’s website, and accessible from their social media page(s),” was also recommended.
The plan was in the 2021 budget at a cost of $50,038 and funded with $30,038 from development charges and $20,000 from the township parks reserve. In 2022, council approved an additional $20,000 for the final phase and reporting, which was also taken from the parks reserve. The project wound up costing $71,638.27.
The parks and recreation master plan is available on the township’s website at www.ezt.ca.
SHOW US YOUR WILMOT
The Hearing Aid Trade-In That Helps You and Someone in Need
Local hearing aid wearers are being invited to quite literally change lives, as well as benefit from stepping into brand new highperforming hearing technology, for a significant savings
Local hearing aid wearers are being invited to do something extraordinary: change someone’s life while upgrading to the latest high-performance hearing technology - with significant savings
Arnold Hearing Centres, the longeststanding independent hearing care provider in the region, has teamed up with the local charity Friends for Life for a mission to Yamasà, an underserved community in the Dominican Republic
During their trip, a group of hearing care professionals will be testing hearing and fitting donated, professionally reconditioned hearing aids to people who have no access to treatment These trips are life-changing; both for those receiving hearing aids and those delivering them In places like Yamasà, something as small as a hearing aid can be the difference between a child receiving an education or being left behind
The team hopes to help over 200 people in need of better hearing but they’re short on devices
Arnold Hearing Centres has vowed to help them reach their goals
To help bridge that gap, Arnold Hearing Centres has launched a special trade-in program Hearing aid wearers are invited to visit their Elmira or New Hamburg location to have their current devices professionally valued
In return, they’ll receive an elevated trade-in credit towards upgrading to groundbreaking 2025 hearing technology Afterwards, their existing devices will be refurbished and donated to someone in urgent need It’s a chance to upgrade your hearing and give someone else a life-changing gift; all while enjoying significant savings
Appointments are now available in Elmira and New Hamburg If you’d like to get a valuation on your current hearing aids and discover what stepping into new technology - and changing a life - looks like, contact Arnold Hearing Centres today
Bill Fleming recently shared this photo of a couple cardinals enjoying a date night out on the town in New Hamburg to the Show Us Your Wilmot Facebook page.
(PHOTO COURTESY OF SHOW US YOUR WILMOT)
Wellesley council agrees to waive pavilion-rental fee for Wellesley Farmers’ Market
GALEN SIMMONS
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A beloved local farmer’s market will return to the Wellesley picnic shelter for eight weeks this year and it once again has the support of the township after Wellesley council agreed to waive its weekly pavilion-rental fee.
At a recent township committee of the whole meeting, Mary Lichty-Neeb of the Wellesley-North Easthope Agricultural Society asked council to consider once again waiving the pavilion rental fee for the Wellesley picnic shelter where market vendors set up shop on Saturdays, typically between 8 a.m. and noon, during the farmer’s market’s operating season which, last year, ran from Aug. 17 to Oct. 12 with the exception of Sept. 28 during the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival.
“For over a decade, this market has been more than just a venue for buying fresh produce,” Lichty-Neeb said. “It has been a community gathering space, it has fostered connections among neighbours, families and local vendors. This market is a platform for local education featuring participation from various organizations including the library and, recently, waste-disposal services whose aim is to educate the public on sustainability and
green initiatives beginning in our area.
“Local leaders have also utilized this space for community engagement, making it a vital part of our township’s social infrastructure.”
According to Lichty-Neeb, one of the obstacles the agricultural society is facing in operating the seasonal, outdoor market is the cost of insurance for vendors, which can exceed $228 per vendor for the eightweek season. While the market once ran
from June to October each year, organizers have adapted to the rising cost of insurance by shortening the season to include only the market’s eight most-profitable weeks.
“When the farmer’s market had to close for a year, the community response was overwhelming; people missed it dearly and it is truly a gem of Wellesley township,” Lichty-Neeb said. “The return of the market last year was met with gratitude and excitement, showcasing its importance in
our lives.”
To help reduce overhead for organizers and costs for vendors, Lichty-Neeb asked council to consider waiving the pavilion-rental fee, as was done last year.
According to township director of recreation Danny Roth, the township’s rental fee for the pavilion is $62.25 for each market day, bringing the total for this season to $498. The fee, Roth explained, ensures the pavilion is reserved for the market on each of its operating days.
“Whenever we’re in town, we go down to the market,” Mayor Joe Nowak said. “You’re absolutely right; it’s much more than a market. I don’t think any of the vendors are getting rich by what they’re selling down there. I think it’s a fantastic asset to the community. I believe last year, you received free rent as well, which, in my mind, sets a bit of a precedent. I think it’s something we should continue. It’s not an expensive proposition to us and the whole community benefits.
“I don’t know if I should say this, but the price of some of those vegetables is just amazing. It’s really a good place to go and stock up.”
Council voted unanimously in support of waiving the pavilion-rental fee for the 2025 Wellesley Farmer’s Market.
The popular Saturday Wellesley Farmers Market will return to the Wellesley Pavilion for an eight-week season this year, with continued support from township council, which has once again waived the pavilion rental fee.
(WELLESLEY FARMERS MARKET FACEBOOK PHOTO)
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.
April 29 - May 6, 2015, Edition (10 years ago)
The Canadian Cancer Society Distinguished Lifetime Volunteer Award was presented to Isabel Gimbel of Tavistock at the Oxford County Community Office’s Volunteer Recognition event held at the Elmhurst Inn on Monday, April 20, 2015. This provincial award is offered to a Canadian Cancer Society volunteer whose contributions have been extensive, have covered a lengthy period of time and have had an impact at the provincial or national level. Gimbel has been a Canadian Cancer Society leadership volunteer for over half a century – a lifetime. Her volunteer career started in the 1950s when she would sew linens for people with cancer. The sewing project was a symbol that others cared and provided invaluable support at often a sad time in people’s lives in that day and time.
Tavistock Waterloo-Oxford District Secondary School student Denisa Suteu won third place at the junior edition of The Brush Off art competition at The Museum in downtown Kitchener on Saturday, April 25, 2015. At this event, high-school students between the ages of 14 and 19 competed in a live-art competition that featured three 30-minute rounds.
Guests who paid a $15 ticket to attend the event voted for their favourite artists, with winners advancing on to the next round until overall winners were chosen. All pieces of artwork produced were then placed in a silent auction with proceeds going back to both the artists and The Museum.
May 1-8, 1985, Edition (40 years ago)
Ken and Katherine Roth have a very personal reason for joining in the Annual Ride for Cancer on Sunday afternoon in their daughter Janelle’s own battle with the dreaded disease. Janelle didn’t have any problem getting sponsors for her part in the ride, having received $1,096.80 in pledges. The ride was 20 kilometres altogether, six miles each way and with the sunny sky and a brisk wind, it was easy riding at least one way.
The Tavistock Jets Girls Hockey team captured the league pennant on April 3 in Tavistock, beating Kitchener-Waterloo 2-0, only to find the third period was under protest by K-W. Nearing the end of the second period, referee Mel Snooks was in a collision with a Jet player. After the referee regained consciousness, the K-W trainer concluded that the mishap could have been avoided had the referee not consumed alcohol prior to the game. Mr. Snooks admitted to consuming beer after work but had total control of the game before the accident. The protest meeting was held April 15 and the Jets won by a 5-0 vote.
April 30 - May 7, 1975, Edition (50 years ago)
No, it wasn’t the Charge of the Light Brigade! It was the Annual Ride for Cancer on Sunday afternoon, April 27, for a troop of 17 riders. Cancer can be beaten but it takes funds for research and treatment. The weather was most encouraging as the group wheeled away from Knox Hall on its way to Harmony and back, a 14-mile round-trip. Some had more horsepower than others and made it back earlier for soft drinks and coffee and doughnuts. But all were back before 3:30 p.m. When the riders signed in with their pledges, the total reached between $1,550 and $1,600.
TOWNSHIP OF EAST ZORRA-TAVISTOCK
GRACE UNITED CHURCH
116 Woodstock St. S., Tavistock Phone: 519-655-2151
All are welcome
Service led by Rev. Marilyn Arthur Music by Marilyne Nystrome
TRINITY EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
SEBASTOPOL-TAVISTOCK
Pastor Steve Hoffard
Church Office 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
677044 16th Line Road, East Zorra Pastors Ray Martin & Mike Williamson www.ezmennonite.ca
Service audio recordings available at: https://ezmennonite.ca/worship/
WILMOT TOWNSHIP
ST GEORGE’S ANGLICAN CHURCH
Corner of Waterloo St and Byron St, New Hamburg
Weekly Sunday services at 10:15 am. All are welcome. https://www.stgeorgesnewhamburg.com
St James Chapel of Ease 4339 Huron Rd Wilmot Township All are welcome.
Rev Margaret Walker; Office: 519-662-3450 sgacnewhamburg@gmail.com
St Agatha Mennonite Church
1967 Erb's Road St Agatha 519-634-8212
Pastor Jim Brown
Worship service 10am followed by coffee hour and sermon discussion. All are welcome
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette
Lakers heading back on the ice in the fall
Zehr’s team joining new senior loop
Gazette Correspondent
The Woodstock Lakers senior men’s hockey team took the 2024-2025 season off but will be back on the ice in the fall with a familiar face holding the reins.
Tavistock native and current Woodstock resident Jeff Zehr ran the team in the Ontario Super Hockey League (OSHL) for several years out of Plattsville and then Woodstock. Zehr didn’t like the direction the league was going but has agreed to become a part of the growing Northern Premier Hockey League (NPHL) based in Ottawa. The team will play in the Metropolitan Conference.
“Right now, the league is at four teams but we are expecting that to multiply rather rapidly. It’s senior hockey, the same level we are used to, pretty much the same players and same teams. We are just joining a league whose values and way of thinking align with ours,” said Zehr, a former first-round draft choice of the New York Islanders.
Three teams – the Strathroy Jets, Tilbury Bluebirds and Alvinston Killer Bees - have decided to leave the OHSL in favour of the
NPHL. Like Zehr, league co-owner John Zinck expects more to follow suit.
“100 per cent there will be more teams coming in, probably as soon as this week. A lot of guys want to be involved in what we are doing. The other leagues are kind of stale and haven’t really done anything over the past four years.”
He added the league is based on community, giving back and helping out. All the teams do it, whether they are helping out with minor hockey, donating turkeys at Christmas, raising money for charities, our league is all about giving back and creating a network.”
There is strength in numbers and Zinck made it very clear what the league’s ultimate goal is going forward.
“Our goal for this league is to put senior hockey back on the map in the same category as the East Coast Hockey League and American Hockey League.”
The NPHL bills itself as a senior league with the goal of becoming a semi-professional league that serves as a competitive platform for players across Ontario and Quebec. Established in 2019, it was created to provide a higher level of play for amateur athletes while promoting community
engagement through local teams.
The league, which is not affiliated with Hockey Canada, is also connected to TSN, one of Canada’s largest sports networks.
“They do our radio broadcasts every week, and we advertise on the network. They help us out as much as possible,” added Zinck.
Zehr explained what he needs now is people in many shapes and forms.
“If that’s investors, sponsors, volunteers, we have open arms for anyone wanting to get involved with the hockey team.”
Zehr came up with a unique idea recently, launching a scavenger hunt where he is hiding one gift per month somewhere in Woodstock over the next five months. Updates and hints will be posted on the team’s social media channels.
“We want to be known as a community-run team, which we are, but I want bigger and more exposure. I want to be known as a year-round franchise. We have a mascot, Woody, and he should be recognized in the city. We really need to put our Woodstock Lakers name and logo on the map and be recognized.”
Zehr explained the team is valued at approximately $50,000, based on both hard
assets and community impact. The figure includes team equipment, uniforms and annual operational revenue from ticket sales and local sponsorships, which together account for a portion of the value.
“More importantly, our team plays a key role in promoting physical activity, community pride and youth mentorship in our region. We host events that draw hundreds of attendees, engage with schools and local businesses, and contribute positively to the town’s identity. The $50,000 valuation reflects both our existing assets and the goodwill and brand presence we’ve established in the community, making this a strong investment opportunity for sponsors or funding partners,” he added.
The league has scheduled what it is calling an Outlaw tournament in April 2026.
“We are going to bring all the teams together in Ottawa and see who really has the best team in Ontario.”
The tournament will feature every team in the league as they compete for the Outlaw Cup and a yet-to-be-determined cash prize.
More information is available on the league website at www.nphlhockey.ca/ home.
Tavistock native Jeff Zehr and his Woodstock Lakers will ice a team this season as part of the Northern Premier Hockey League, playing out of the Metropolitan Conference.
LEE GRIFFI
(IMAGE COURTESY OF WOODSTOCK LAKERS)
Tips to make Mother’s Day extra special
Mother’s Day is celebrated each May and marks a perfect opportunity to show Mom how much she’s loved and appreciated. Mother’s Day has been celebrated for more than 100 years, and in that time mothers have grown accustomed to certain staples of the holiday. A bouquet of fresh flowers, Sunday brunch at a local restaurant and some gifts from a partner and the children have become standards each Mother’s Day.
While Mother’s Day standards may never lose their appeal, families looking to make this year’s celebration a little more unique can consider these ideas.
• Whip up (or order in) some baked goods. If Mom is the family baker, surprise her this year with some homemade baked goods. An aroma of freshly baked goodies around the house can set a welcoming tone for the day, particularly if the treats are prepared in the morning before Mom wakes up. Partners and children whose baking skills leave a little to be desired can get some freshly baked treats from a local bakery and have them waiting for Mom when she wakes up.
• Take to the road. Another way to make Mother’s Day extra special is to make the celebration a weekend affair. A weekend getaway can be a welcome breath of fresh air for mothers and serve as a great opportunity for the family to unwind and celebrate Mom away from everything that reminds her of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A getaway can be an especially ideal surprise for mothers whose children are full grown. Invite adult kids along and make their attendance a surprise for Mom.
• Book a unique experience. Experiential gifts have been wildly popular in recent years, so why not incorporate this trend into Mother’s Day celebrations? Book a tour of a local vineyard or winery, take Mom to a live
theater performance, or take her out for a day on the water, complete with brunch and a champagne toast. Such memorable experiences won’t soon be forgotten and can provide an exciting alternative to previous Mother’s Day celebrations.
• Ensure Mom doesn’t lift a finger. A truly special Mother’s Day will give Mom a day off. Partners and kids can team up to take care of everything from the moment Mom wakes up until she returns to bed at night. Serve breakfast in bed, order in some lunch and then take Mom out for a nice meal at a local restaurant. In between meals, let Mom relax any way she sees fit, whether that’s curling up with a good book, dusting off her paint brush and engaging in some artistic endeavors and/or squeezing in a rare midday nap. Mom will undoubtedly appreciate a full day off, which might just make for the best gift of all.
Mother’s Day is the ideal time to offer Mom a unique experience that shows her how much she’s loved and appreciated.
Gazette Puzzles
At 12 years young, Olive is a graceful senior with a love for cozy naps, sunny windowsills, and the occasional heart-to-heart (when she’s in the mood, of course). She’s an independent queen who knows exactly what she wants and what she wants is a peaceful home to call her own. Olive is on a special veterinary-prescribed diet, so her future family will need to work with their vet to keep her feeling her best. If you’re looking for a calm, gentle companion to share life’s quiet moments, Olive might just be your perfect match. Visit www.kwsphumane.ca to learn more about Olive!
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Fresh flowers, thoughtful gifts, and a little pampering — Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate everything Mom does with love and creativity.
(VECTEEZY PHOTO)
Celebrate Mother’s Day locally
HEAPS OF HEALTHY TIPS
By Mercedes Kay Gold
Mother’s Day is a celebration honouring motherhood, maternal bonds and the influence of mothers in society. It’s observed by over 40 countries in either the month of March or May.
Countries around the world have a long history of celebrating, but, in this writer’s opinion, Mother’s Day has become a bit commercialized. That being said, how are you celebrating the mother figure in your life?
I am not sure there’s anything more endearing than a child giving a handmade gift or helping carry the breakfast-in-bed tray to their mommy. Taking the time to give a gift that shows you understand, see and value the special woman in your life yesterday, today and tomorrow is a gift itself.
New Hamburg is a tiny town with a big heart and heaps of local talent, ready to help make this Mother’s Day memorable. Whether you start at sunrise with a cappuccino and a freshy baked cinnamon bun or a chorizo ham and Havarti puffed pastry for lunch, A Portuguesa Bakery is a taste sensation. Are you looking for the perfect meal to celebrate without the muss and fuss? Put top caterer chef Adam Brenner of The Garden Stand on speed dial. His team will prepare a magnificent menu served celebrity style in the privacy of your own dining room for a truly dreamy day.
Dessert? There’s no shortage of sweet sensations. Pick from an array of bonbons at Chok. Fine Chocolates in nearby Shakespeare to carrot cake, coconut cream pie or chocolate brownies from The Garden Stand. Entertaining the whole clan? Indulge a little with a mini-pie party thanks to A Portuguesa Bakery. Their lineup of individual pies in berry, coconut or apple astounds the tastebuds. Flowers are always in style. Whether you don rubber boots and handpick a bright bouquet at the Yellow Door Flower Farm in nearby Tavistock or order a beautiful bunch at Riverside Flowers and Gift Studio, flowers bring a bounty of beauty and joy. Do you know the birth-month flower of your special lady? January is snow drop. February
is iris. March is daffodil and April daisies. May is a lily and roses are for June. Water lilies for July and poppies are August. September is tied to morning glory and cosmos are October flower love, while chrysanthemums are linked to November and finally, narcissus for the month of December.
A spa day relaxes and rejuvenates. Luxurious treatments and services by a team of experts from nails and facials to waxing and spray-tanning await at Nailed It! Aesthetics and Wellness, conveniently located in Wellesley. Every woman loves being surprised with a little box. Your special lady is rare, unequaled, unrivaled and should always know she’s in a class by herself. Spoil her with one-of-a-kind, handcrafted silver jewelry by local artist Deborah West. West provides a unique twist to antique cutlery with her ravishing rings, and you can find them at Is This Chair Taken in New Hamburg. Looking for something iconic like your favourite gal? The MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre is a one-stop-shop for odds and sods, hard-to-find collectibles, rare books and records, and vintage and new clothing.
The Zen Den has a “Don’t sweat it” special for Mother’s Day. The
healing benefits of infrared light is more than hype and, unlike traditional saunas, these rays warm the body directly but at a lower temperature. The soothing heat penetrates the cells, helping alleviate joint and muscle pain while promoting recovery. The sauna is a super a stress reliever and body detox, plus it can offer an incredible night’s sleep. Don’t forget to add in essential oils to for mood-boosting self-love. Melody Junker, owner extraordinaire, has you covered with two sweats plus the foot-fabulous iconic bath she calls one sole therapy for just $65. Step deep into local history while visiting Puddicombe House for a day of serenity in their salon and spa. Make a dining reservation and learn why the gorgeous, grand house on Peel Street earned a spot on OpenTable’s Top 100 Places to Eat Outdoors.
Enjoy spring and embrace the great outdoors. Take a walk in nature along one of the many scenic trails around town. There’s Schmidt Woods and Baden Hills Regional Forest or pack a picnic and choose a new spot to explore. Shakespeare Pond Conservation Area or Petersburg Regional Forest are also phenomenal spots to soak in the sun and scenery.
Cap the day off right with a cold cider, sangria spritzer or a glass of wine from The Perth Farmhouse. Nothing says summer is on the way like a backyard Mother’s Day barbecue. Throw some steaks on the barbecue from Nith Valley Butcher and enjoy the night.
Have fun! Hug your mom, mother, nana, grandma or wondrous woman in your life and don’t forget pet moms, too! Support local!
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS)
Enjoy a sangria spritzer from The Perth Farmhouse this Mother’s Day.
Flowers from the Yellow Door Flower Farm in Tavistock or Riverside Flowers and Gift Studio are a go-to favourite for the mother figure in your life.
Unique jewelry made from cutlery by Deborah West can be found at Is This Chair Taken in New Hamburg.
A delicious cinnamon bun from A Portuguesa Bakery in New Hamburg is a great way to start off Mother’s Day on the right note.
SATURDAY, MAY 10
9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Bring your refundable bottles and cans. 1239 Notre Dame Drive, Petersburg (Bechthold Home Improvement)
MONDAY, MAY 12
Wilmot Special Council meeting
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Council chambers
60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
Garden Wilmot May event
6:30 pm
We’re going on a road trip to Bee Sweet Nature Co.! Learn about native shrubs, then purchase from the grower. Car pool to 4182 Sideroad 20 S., Puslinch
Food trucks at Grace United Church Wild Boar, Frying Dutchman, and El Milagro. Proceeds supporting TAPTavistock Assistance Program
Grace United Church in Tavistock
TUESDAY, MAY 13
Wellesley Council meeting
6:45 p.m.
Council chambers
4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
Optimist Club of Petersburg Bottle Drive
THURSDAY, MAY 15
Nith Valley EcoBoosters will be hosting a free webinar
7:00-9:00 p.m. EDT
“Why Hope Matters: The Practice of Evidence-Based Hope in a World of Climate Doom” For more information check out the upcoming events page at https://nvecoboosters.com/ or contact nvecoboosters @gmail.com
MONDAY, MAY 19
Food trucks at Grace United Church Crystals Fries, Fo’ Cheezy and Ish n chips. Proceeds supporting Grace United Grace United Church in Tavistock
WEDNESDAY, MAY 21
Community Dining for Seniors in Wilmot and Wellesley Townships
12:00 p.m.
Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for lunch and fellowship. Please register by May 16 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
SATURDAY, MAY 24 Tree Planting
MONDAY, MAY 26
Wilmot Council meeting 6:30-11:30 p.m.
Council chambers 60 Snyder’s Road West Baden
Food trucks at Grace United Church Berlin 95, Serial Griller, Los Rolling Tacos, and Beavertails. Proceeds supporting TAPTavistock Assistance Program
Grace United Church in Tavistock
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28
Community Dining for Seniors in Wilmot and Wellesley Townships 12:00 p.m.
Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for lunch and fellowship. Please register byMay 23 by calling 519-664-1900 or toll Free: 1-855-664-1900.
Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood
SUNDAY, JUNE 1
“Y” Knot Quilt Show and Sale 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Many beautiful new and antique quilts will be for sale with all proceeds going to help support the Stratford Family Y and Rotary Hospice Stratford Perth. For more information please visit yknotquiltshowandsale.com.
Falstaff Family Centre 35 Waterloo St. Stratford
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
Tavistock Mens Club Fish Fry 4:00-7:00 pm
Pickerel Dine in or take out. Portion of profits to Tavistock Community Health fundraiser. Visit http://www. tavistockmensclub.ca for more info and tickets or call (519) 655-3573
Tavistock Men’s Club Hall 78 Woodstock St. N., Tavistock
TUESDAY, JUNE 10
Chicken BBQ and Pie Auction Fundraiser
5:00-7:00 p.m.
Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp is hosting its 58th Annual Chicken BBQ and Pie Auction. Enjoy a delicious meal and bid on one of 60 pies. All proceeds support our summer camp programs. Visit www. hiddenacres.ca for more information and tickets.
SUNDAY, JUNE 15
Hickson Lions Club’s 10th Annual Brunch in the Park 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
ONLY 200 TICKETS AVAILABLE Call Valerie 519-462-2786 or Heather 519462-2048 or contact any Lions Member Hickson Lions Park
THURSDAY, JUNE 19
Fundraising Golf Tournament
AMDSB launches I AM Here campaign to encourage regular attendance at school
GALEN SIMMONS Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
As the end of the school year approaches and students’ minds turn to summer vacation and summer jobs, the Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) has launched a new campaign aimed at underscoring the importance of regular attendance at school.
This new campaign, called I AM Here, is targeted at students, school staff, parents and caregivers, and the wider community, all of whom have a role to play in encouraging and supporting regular attendance.
According to a press release from the school board, research shows that missing just 10 per cent of school, or two days a month, has a notable impact on student academic success.
“It’s always something that’s in the forefront of our minds,” said Ed Havenga, systems principal of student success and pathways with AMDSB. “Coming out of COVID, it’s now kind of in the rearview mirror and we just want to make sure we are engaging with our families and ensuring we have our students in classrooms so the teachers are delivering and the students
are there to work with the teacher and to support the learning that’s in the classroom. In order for that to happen, we need our students there.”
The I AM Here campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular daily attendance and to provide staff, students and parents/caregivers with the necessary tools to bolster attendance across Huron and Perth.
The campaign has four areas of focus:
• For students: I AM Here means they are present, on time and ready to learn each day.
• For school staff: I AM Here means that they stand with their students. They are reliable, dependable, caring adults who facilitate a safe, welcoming classroom environment and are invested in each student’s success.
• For parents/caregivers: I AM Here means they are engaged in encouraging their child’s education and are ready to connect with school staff when necessary.
• For the community: I AM Here means the wider community supports and encourages children and youth
by offering support – financial, physical, emotional, social – to ensure students can attend school regularly.
Regular student attendance will be supported by a team of professionals. AMDSB attendance counsellors work collaboratively, as needed, with the school board’s mental health and wellbeing team, Indigenous education team, school administrators and community partners.
Trained staff provide students with techniques to reduce anxiety and stress through the use of healthy coping strategies. If necessary, they can also support referrals to alternative programming or to community resources. Working with parents and caregivers, they can support the development of a plan that encourages a full return to academic learning. Students and parents or caregivers should contact their school principal to access the support of an attendance counsellor.
“Attendance is one of the pillars of the ministry’s student-achievement plan,” Havenga said. “We are constantly looking at our data for our attendance, so we’re looking at students who have greater than or equal to 90 per-cent attendance, so that’s
one of our metrics that, as a school board, we’re always looking to increase. We’ve actually created an attendance advisory council, so that council is just now collecting best practices from various schools in the district, and then we’re going to share those ideas with all schools.”
Part of the campaign, Havenga explained, is sharing positive messaging about the importance of regular attendance both in school and on social media through the school board and each individual school’s social-media platforms. He said sharing the positive spinoffs of regular attendance has been proven more effective than trying to scare students into attending school with the potential impacts low attendance can have on learning and their future career paths.
While the program is rolling out now as a sort of pilot before school lets out for the summer, Havenga said board staff will take whatever lessons are learned and the date collected to continue expanding on and improving the program going into the next school year and beyond.
For more information on the I AM Here campaign, visit amdsb.ca/iamhere.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Celebrate National Accessibility Week May 25-31
To the People of Perth County,
We invite you to celebrate with us this National Accessibility Week, taking place May 25-31.
What are we celebrating? Well, those extraordinary organizations and people who foster accessibility throughout our county. For example, the Alzheimer Society of Huron-Perth, which helps persons with dementia to live without barriers, or the former chair of our Joint Accessibility Advisory committee, Dennis Manarey, who, for over 15 years, worked tirelessly to guide businesses and property owners on making our built environments more accessibility for persons of all disabilities.
“How do I celebrate?” you might ask yourself. It takes as little as a few minutes to remember those people helping to make an accessible county. They are your friends, they are your neighbours, they are your family. They might even be you. Remember them this week especially, and perhaps drop them a note of thanks. It’s that simple. And then think of one small way you can make the places around you more accessible. If you are looking for ideas, just look to the many amazing organizations that support and advocate for
individuals with disabilities.
One of those groups is your Perth County Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee, of which I am chair. Our members come from across the County, representing all of the lower tiers, and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience on accessibility issues. We invite you to reach out to us with any questions, comments or concerns with regards to accessibility. You can contact the committee through the county by phone at 519271-0531, via email at info@perthcounty. ca or by mail at 1 Huron St., Stratford, Ontario, N5A 5S4. Please note in your communication that it is in regards to the Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee (JAAC).
As you move about the county during National Accessibility Week, take a few minutes to think about the places we work, live and visit, and ask yourself how could we promote accessibility for everyone.
Happy National Accessibility Week!
In gratitude,
Mike Doan, chair, on behalf of the Perth County Joint Accessibility Advisory Committee
An example of the positive messaging to be shared on social media as part of the Avon Maitland District School Board’s I AM Here campaign.
(IMAGE COURTESY OF AMDSB)
Gosling debut: Local geese make a splash on the Nith
Work includes maintaining culverts, roads, roadsides and safety devices. This role performs winter control activities, including snow plow operation. Valid Class D license with Z endorsement is required.
Visit www.oxfordcounty.ca/careers to view the full job description and qualifications.
Apply by May 14, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
Resumes are only accepted via email at hr@oxfordcounty.ca. Include the competition number in the subject line.
New Hamburg resident Alice Rice shared this photo with the Gazette of a pair of Canada geese that nested in her neigbhourhood four weeks ago and recently welcomed a brood of goslings. Pictured, the proud parents encourage their babies onto the Nith River for a swim.
(ALICE RICE PHOTO)
CLASSIFIED ADS —
EMPLOYMENT WANTED
Looking for Employment in Stratford or surrounding area. Hard working, reliable, with full G driver’s license. Randy 519-271-8137.
FOR SALE
Chrome Jag Rims 245/50 ZR17 99W
LG Washer & Gas Dryer good condition $350.00 Call 519-393-5576 leave message
FOR SALE
Hundreds of shade trees, fruit trees, apples, pears, peaches, plums, sweet and sour cherries, apricots, nectarines, blueberries, haskapp grapes, raspberries, elderberries etc. Lots of spruce, pine, cedars for windbreak and privacy hedges. Sizes 1-8 ft. in containers ready to go. Flowering shrubs and much more. MonSat 7:00am to 6:00pm Martin’s Nursery, 42661 Orangehill Rd Wroxeter, ON N0G 2X0 (1 Conc. North of Wroexter on Belmore Line)
PRAYER TO ST. JUDE
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved and preserved throughout the world now and forever. Oh Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us; St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us; St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer nine times a day, by the eighth day this prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail. Publication must be promised. S.F.
WANTED
Local elderly Tavistock couple in search of someone to drive them to new Hamburg at least twice a month and sometimes to Kitchener. Willing to pay a reasonable amount. Please contact Janice at 519-412-0461
WANTED
$ Cash Paid $ for your RECORDS and LPs. Jazz, Blues, Rock, Pop, Folk, Soundtracks, and more. Selectively buying CDs, Cassettes, Turntables, and Stereo Equipment. For more information: DIAMOND DOGS MUSIC 114 Ontario St. Stratford/ 226-972-5750
WANTED
I will pay cash for antiques and collectibles. Coca Cola, Pepsi, any pop company, Brewery items Kuntz, Huether Labatts, etc. Old radios and gramophones, Wristwatches and pocket watches, Old fruit jars, Beaver Star Bee Hive etc. Any old oil cans and signs Red Indian Supertest etc Any small furniture. If you are moving or cleaning out stuff please contact me - 519-570-6920.
GARAGE Sales
STONECROFT
Saturday May 31/25
Time: 8:00 am - 1:00 pm
Rain or Shine
Stonecroft Community, New Hamburg
POST YOUR GARAGE SALE LISTINGS HERE! ONLY $10 + HST PER WEEK!
Weekly Quiz Answers
PICK UP YOUR COPY OF
The Wilmot-Tavistock Gazette AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:
New Hamburg
Thrift Centre, Short Stop, Sobeys, Office Pro, No Frills, Mario's Chicken, Library, McDonalds, Tim Hortons, Nith Valley Butcher, The Whining Tree, Town Square Pharmasave, Heart'n Home Creations, Cook's Pharmacy, Great Canadian Dollar, Wilmot Recreation Centre, Pizza Arca, Old Country Restaurant, Cloverleaf Leaf Farms
Tavistock
Double D's Restaurant, D&D Homestyle Cuisine, Tim Hortons, Hasty Market, Sam's Independent Quehl's Restaurant, IDA Pharmacy, Shell Gas, Library, Tavistock Arena, Scotia Bank
Baden
Tim Hortons, Circle K, Subway, Mars Variety, Baden Coffee Company, Pharmacy in Baden Plaza
New Dundee
New Dundee Village Market
Wellesley
Pym's, Schmidt's Bulk Pantry, Cook's Pharmacy Schmidtsville Restaurant, Wellesley Service
