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03 | 31 | 2012 VOLUME 17 | ISSUE 13
KINGS BOW OUT OF THEIR QUEST FOR THE CUP SPORTS PAGE 16
COMMENT PAGE 8
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www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
World aware
Breslau Public School held a World Awareness Day on Mar. 23 encouraging students to learn and become tolerant of other cultures. Nii Addico (left) taught students about African drumming while other students learned how to dance hip hop. [COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER]
Woolwich ponders appeal of biogas plant approval Council, Elmira citizens’ group disappointed with province’s decision to give project the green light STEVE KANNON In approving a biogas plant for Elmira, the province is “spitting in the face” of residents, says the head of the citizens’ group fighting the project. This week’s decision came as a shock to Dr. Dan Holt of Elmira
Bio Fuel Citizens’ Committee, who felt the government had heard the public’s message and was prepared to see the plant moved to a site elsewhere in the township. Instead, Bio-En Power Inc. has been cleared to build the facility on Martin’s Lane, just north of downtown Elmira.
“It flies in the face of everything that’s been done – we made a case against the location and found a better place, where they actually want it (the plant),” he said of the provincial decision. “It’s kind of like spitting in the face of everybody who lives here.” Notified that the project had
been cleared to go ahead – receiving what’s known as a Renewable Energy Approval – Woolwich officials are now looking at the township’s legal options to appeal the decision. Addressing the issue in council session Tuesday night, Mayor Todd Cowan said he was “ex-
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
Bio-Filter Future Feed Stock Storage Tank
Liquid Receiving
Solids Receiving
Feed Stock Storage Tanks
Solid Organics Mixing Unit
Liquid Organics Mixing Unit
Contrary Bin Storage Solids Removal
Pretreatment Tanks Water Tank
Main Digester Tanks
Main Digester Tanks
Digestate Load Pump
Secondary Digester & Repository Tank
6ft Person
[OBSERVER FILE ARTWORK]
BIOGAS: Township looking at its legal options in advance of launching into appeal process FROM | COVER
province didn’t follow through on its assurances that a solution could be found. Cowan said he has spoken to officials, including the minister of the environment and minister of energy, on several occasions about finding another spot for the plant. He was left
with the idea alternatives would be in the works. Monday’s announcement came out of the blue, without so much as a heads-up warning in advance. Council is looking for some legal advice before launching an appeal. Anyone opposed to the decision has 15 days from Mar. 26 to submit a formal appeal to the Environmental
Review Tribunal. For Woolwich Bio-En, the approval comes with a long list of conditions to be reviewed before the next move can be considered, even in the absence of an appeal process. Away on vacation this week, company president Chuck Martin was reached by email: “Significant changes to
the original application have been discussed with the MOE. I am anxious to review the approval as issued. I need to review both the approval and the recent amendments to the FIT program to better understand the project status and possible timelines,” he said. “ If there are no major hurdles in the approval or the FIT program changes,
then construction in 2013 and operating in early 2014 may still be possible.” The technology proposed for the Bio-En facility uses an anaerobic digester to convert organic material into biogas and fertilizer. It will be fed by waste material, including livestock manure, food waste, used cooking oils and other fats and the like. A diesel gen-
erator converted to work with methane will generate electricity to be sold back into the grid, while steam heat produced could be sold to neighbours such as the pet food mill. The $12-million facility would generate 2.8 megawatts of renewable electricity – enough to power 2,200 homes – and 3.4 mW of heat.
Harris says he can’t support Ontario budget It’s Time For Change
Kitchener-Conestoga MPP isn’t overly eager to head back to the polls, either JAMES JACKSON On Tuesday, Ontario got its first glimpse of the province’s economic future from Finance Minister Dwight Duncan’s 2012 budget, but it’s a vision that the Conservative Party and Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Michael Harris cannot support. “My first reaction was that I was obviously disap-
over-year, representing Liberal forecost to government, The past fewand years have been toughgovernment for local families. Now more than ever, we need an MPP thatawill be here get things done. 82 per cent of the overall cast deficit of to $15.3 billion the jobs crisis.” budget. for the coming year, which Ontario’sIt’s total spending time for change that puts families first by: “That’s not austerity. is about $1 billion less than is pegged at $127 billion Immediate Relief on Home Hydro andago, Heating That’s not reducing the size was forecast a year butBills this year (withProviding an extra $1 Lowering the Tax Burden On Middle-Class Families and cost of government. still too high for Harris and billion in reserves), an inCleaning Up Fraud and Waste In Government That’s making it bigger.” the Tories to stomach. crease of 2.5 per cent over Investing In Health Care And Education The Liberals have also “Families have to live last year, with the promise Keeping Our Neighbourhoods Safe “cherry picked” from the of eliminating the deficit in within their means and Drummond Report reconsider family budgets the next five years without MPP Michael Harris for Kitchener-Conestoga leased last month, Harris when making bigof decisacrificing education or A long-time resident Kitchener, will not support tabled Liberal budget. Michael on his family’s said, picking and choosing sions, andgrew soupshould this healthcare. farm. Michael, Sarah, Brayden (9) that 14 of 24 ministries will government as well,” he In the budget delivered live in South Kitchener. BUDGET | 5 see a budget increase yearsaid, pointing out the fact on Tuesday afternoon, the MichaelHarrisPC.ca KITCHENER – CONESTOGA 519.954.8679 PHONE 519.669.5790 | TOLL FREE 1.888.966.5942 | FAX 519.669.5753 | ONLINE WWW.OBSERVERXTRA.COM
pointed with this budget,” said Harris on Wednesday afternoon over the phone from his office at the Legislature, indicating that the province continues to struggle to get its economic house in order and help get 600,000 unemployed Ontarians back to work. “(There is) no real plan to address the massive deficit that we’re faced with to reduce the overall size and
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
Province to review Aggregate Resources Act Local MPP happy with move, but details are still scarce in issue of tremendous importance in the riding
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required to respond to Harris’ request before Apr. 3, the MPP suspects that response will make reference to this unanimous passing of the review as proof that the government is moving forward. He said he hopes their response will have a more defined timeline for the review than was supplied in the motion, and wants to see all stakeholders involved – including opponents such as the BridgeKeepers and the Conestoga-Winterbourne Residents Association as well as proponents such as gravel companies – will be consulted by the government throughout the review. “(Those groups) could possibly think about getting a submission or a pre-
sentation together to present to the committee,” said Harris. “We’re still reviewing whether this would be a travelling committee so that it could come out to our community. I think that’s something that our community would welcome.” Two weeks before last fall’s election, former Liberal MPP Leeanna Pendergast announced that her government intended to review the Aggregate Resources Act and to “put pits in their place” by finding a more sustainable balance between the needs of rural citizens with the demands of the aggregate industry. The announcement followed through on a promise made two months earlier that the govern-
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by Guelph-based Capital Paving is on hold pending the township’s decision to designate the bridge and its surroundings as a cultural heritage landscape. Harris has no direct involvement in the sub-committee that is conducting the review, though he said he has been in talks with colleagues to swap into it. The Liberals also hold a majority position within that committee, meaning the timing of the review is ultimately in their hands. He also reminds those involved that this is merely a review of the act, with no revisions guaranteed. “It’s a very large scope,” he said. “A very significant scope, but lets see how much detail actually comes out of it.”
Councils report 2011 remuneration levels STEVE KANNON Woolwich councillors collected a total of $76,866 in pay and filed expense claims of $6,635 in 2011, according to a report tabled this week. That compares to $71,073 and $2,248 the previous year. In a housekeeping measure mandated by the province, finance director Richard Petherick filed a statement of payments and expenses that was accepted by council at Tuesday night’s meeting. The On-
tario Municipal Act gives municipalities until Mar. 31 to make the details public. Mayor Todd Cowan received $24,782, with expenses of $2,527. Each of the four ward councillors got $13,021, filing various expenses for such thing as conference fees: Mark Bauman, $533; Bonnie Bryant, $1,911; Julie-Anne Herteis, $433; Allan Poffenroth, $1,231. Petherick’s report also noted the township paid five members of its Committee of Adjustment re-
muneration totaling $1,960 and expenses that amounted to $1,058. In Wellesley, a similar report tabled this week shows councillors received a total of $59,795.89 and filed expenses of $14,255.59 in 2011. For the previous year, the corresponding numbers were $52,180.28 and $14,922.51. Mayor Ross Kelterborn was paid $16,857.17, drawing a mileage allowance of $2,199.96 and expenses of $455.57. As is his custom, he donated $6,000
back to the township to keep his pay close to $10,000. Each of the councillors received $10,734.648, and mileage allowances of $800.04. Herb Neher filed expenses of $2,699.42; Paul Hergott, $4,177.75; Jim Olender, $3,724.76; and Shelley Wagner, $3,208.09. Four committee of adjustment members received $1,190, and received mileage costs of $380.97. Five members of the recreation committee received a total of $340.
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ment would review the act, though up until now there have been few moves towards actually completing that review, prompting Harris’ request for more details on Dec. 6. Currently, Woolwich has five gravel applications on the books, three of them larger projects within the vicinity of Conestogo, Winterbourne and West Montrose. Two of those projects – the proposed Jigs Hollow gravel pit, and an application by Hunder Developments at 128 Katherine St. S. and 1081 Hunsberger Rd. – are subject to OMB talks next month, while a third bid to extract aggregate from 115 acres near West Montrose and its historic covered bridge
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On Mar. 22 the Ontario Legislature unanimously passed a motion to review the Aggregate Resources Act, a move that KitchenerConestoga MPP Michael Harris believes is a step in the right direction. “Although specific questions on the review’s timeline and expected impacted on existing quarry applications are still pending, the unanimous approval in the Legislature is an important first step.” The motion came just days before the minister of natural resources was required to respond to a formal request made by Harris on Dec. 6 in which he asked for specific details on the promised review. In that request, Harris asked for a detailed timeline for completion of the review, an indication of the areas of the Act to be examined, and details of the review’s
impact on existing quarry applications currently in front of local councils or the Ontario Municipal Board. The motion passed last week provides few details, other than explaining that the standing committee on general government would review the Aggregate Resources Act and report to the House its observations and recommendations with respect to strengthening the act. In developing those recommendations, the committee’s focus shall include, but not be limited to, “the Act’s consultation process; how siting, operations, and rehabilitation are addressed in the Act, best practices and new developments in the industry, fees/royalties, and aggregate resource development and protection, including conservation/ recycling.” While the minister of the environment will still be
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
A summer of inconvenience for Nightingale residents Look for the reconstruction of Elmira’s Nightingale Crescent to get underway in a month’s time, as Woolwich council this week awarded a $1-million contract to carry out the work. Steed and Evans Ltd. will pocket the cash to rebuild the road and infrastructure between Whippoorwill and Mockingbird drives. The project will including new pavement, curbs and gutters and the widening of the existing sidewalk on
the west side of the road, as well us a new watermain and repairs to existing sanitary and storm sewers. In keeping with an earlier decision, there will be no sidewalk on the east site of Nightingale. A temporary watermain will be installed on or about Apr. 30, with construction targeted to being May 7 and completed by Aug. 31. In addition to $1,025,191 for Steed and Evans, the township will pay Meritech Engineering $71,000 to supervise the work.
More public workers walking on sunshine There’s been some modicum of
restraint, if it can be called that, in the Ontario public service according to “sunshine list” figures released last week by the ministry of finance. For 2011, the average salary over $100,000 across the OPS decreased by $1,211 (one per cent) from $128,850 to $127,639, and by $86 across the broader public service, from $127,735 to $127,649. That was not in evidence locally, as those on the list in both Woolwich and Wellesley saw increases last year. In Woolwich, chief administrative officer David Brenneman made $137,701.46, up from $135,728.83 in 2010. In the case of five department directors, their pay increased to $106,377.05 from $104,000. That list
includes Christine Broughton (council & information services), Larry Devitt (recreation and facilities, now retired), Dan Kennaley (engineering and planning), Rick Pederson (protective services/fire chief) and Richard Petherick (finance). In Wellesley, CAO Susan Duke was again the sole name on the list. She made $111,392.32 in 2011, up from $108,675.32 the previous year. At the Region of Waterloo, some 150 employees raked in more than $100,000, including Chair Ken Seiling at $153,527, plus a taxable benefit of $3,768.08. Another 304 members of the Waterloo Region Police Service are on the list, from constables right up to
chief Matt Torigian’s $241,357. Across the province, the number of employees who earned more than $100,000 jumped 10 per cent in 2011 to 78,914. When first introduced in 1996, the list contained 4,319 names. Inflation is responsible for much of the increase: adjusted for inflation, $100,000 15 years ago is now the equivalent of $139,000 today.
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MINI-VAN VS. BUS
POLICE BLOTTER
were reported by the driver. Damage to the vehicle was minor.
Port Elgin woman killed in collision south of Drayton A 79-year-old Port Elgin woman died at the scene following a twovehicle collision just before 11 p.m. on Sunday night at the intersection of Wellington Road 12 and Wellington Road 8 near Drayton. Marie Dillon was a passenger in a 2005 Cadillac driven by Charles Dillon, 78. Their car was struck broadside by a 1995 Chevrolet Cavalier driven by Travis Peter Wiebe, 23, of St. Clements. Another St. Clements man, Cody B.
Foster, 23, was a passenger in the vehicle, which had been travelling southbound on Road 12. All three survivors were taken to Groves Memorial Hospital in Fergus with serious injuries. Wiebe was later airlifted to St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto, while both Foster and Dillon were transferred to Hamilton General Hospital. The intersection was closed until about 6 a.m. the following morning. Police are still investigating.
MARCH 22
by a transport truck, knocking off the bumper at the roundabout on Arthur Street and Sawmill Road near St. Jacobs. The truck, operated by a 67-year-old Maryhill man, proceeded towards Elmira and was stopped by police on Line 86 near Listowel Road. No charges were laid. A female passenger in the car sustained minor injuries.
6:35 AM | A 47-year-old Elmira man driving a 2000 Dodge pickup truck was heading east on Sawmill Road near Conestogo when he swerved off the road to avoid a black dog that crossed in front of his vehicle. The dog was taken to its owner’s house. No injuries were reported by the driver. Damage to the vehicle was minor.
MARCH 23
1:10 PM | An 18-year-old Listowel man operating a front-end loader in a posted construction zone hit a 2009 Hyundai driven by a 18-year-old Heidelberg woman. The car suffered minor damage. No charges were laid.
4:40 PM | Police charged a 45-year-old Cambridge man with being over the legal limit of alcohol after he struck a 2005 Acura driven by a 24-yearold Kitchener man with his 1997 Jeep on Fountain Street near Breslau.
5:50 PM | Police were contacted by a 20-year-old Elmira man when his car was hit
10:40 AM | A resident on Lobsinger Line reported a raccoon acting aggressively on their
MARCH 24
to be called out through the City of Kitchener dispatch system, as council this week agreed to a $38,000 contract for 2012. The deal extends an arrangement that’s been in place for 33 years. The price draws on an estimate using last year’s call volume of 514 at a rate of $9.81 per call. This new fee structure replaces the previous model of a three-per-cent increase each year. Instead, if the call volume is lower, so too will the overall cost. The $37,882 estimated bill include a $2,000 fee for alerting the township emergency control group and remotely activating Elmira’s sirens in the event of a chemical spill or similar event in the town.
8:20 AM | Police charged a 32-year-old Elmira woman was charged with ‘failure to yield right of way’ after she hit a school bus with 24 kindergarten-age children on board with her 2001 Pontiac van. No injuries were reported by the school children or the 37-yearold bus driver. The driver of the van sustained minor injuries. MARCH 28
12:15 PM | A purple Deorex LX Raleigh mountain bike was found behind the old Elmira pool. The rightful owner can retrieve their bike at the Elmira detachment.
The driver of this Pontiac van was charged with ‘failure to yield’ after colliding with this bus at the intersection of Barnswallow Drive and Kingfisher Drive in Elmira just before 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning. None of the 24 kindergarten students aboard the bus, nor the bus driver, were injured. The driver of the van sustained minor injuries. [JAMES JACKSON / THE OBSERVER]
property. Police managed to lead the animal into a field, where they dispatched it. The raccoon had symptoms consistent with distemper. 11:00 PM | A black mountain bike was stolen from outside the Central Tavern in Elmira. Police ask anyone with information about the bike contact the Elmira detachment. 11:00 PM | A child’s purple and yellow bike was found at the Central Tavern. The bike can be picked up by its rightful owner at the Elmira station.
MARCH 25
7:00 PM | A 58-year-old Auburn woman operating a 2009 Honda CRV hit a utility pole when she was backing up her vehicle on Oriole Parkway in Elmira. No injuries were reported. Waterloo North Hydro was notified of the damaged pole. No charges were laid. MARCH 26
8:55 AM | A resident on Wittick Road near Tillman Road northeast of Elmira contacted police after he noticed a cream-coloured four-door car stealing gas from his farm pump. The vehicle was being driven by a woman, with a male
passenger. When police arrived the farmer told them 120 litres of gas was missing from the tank. Police assume the suspects had stolen gas from the property before. 1:00 PM | A silver Norco mountain bike was stolen from the EDSS bike rack. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Elmira detachment. MARCH 27
7:05 AM | A 40-year-old Wellesley man operating a 2009 Toyota struck and killed a deer on Weimar Line near Kressler Road in Wellesley Township. No injuries
12:30 PM | Police were conducting safety inspections on commercial motor vehicles along Arthur Street in Elmira. Part of the inspections was a training session for officers from the Elmira detachment when dealing with transport trucks and other commercial vehicles. CORRECTION | In an incident on Mar. 17 at 5 p.m., a 71-year-old Winterbourne woman driving a tan 1995 Mercury was hit by a 37-year-old Waterloo man operating a 2010 black GMC pickup at the intersection on Crowsfoot and Sawmill roads. Moderate damage was sustained by the GMC, while damage to the Mercury was sever. No injuries were reported. No charges were laid. Incorrect information appeared last week.
BUDGET: More suggestions from Drummond report should have been included FROM | 3
which suggestions to adopt and which ones to ignore. In total, the province has outright rejected nine of the 362 suggestions, including recommendations to scrap all-day kindergarten and to cut Ontario’s 10 per cent price break on electricity bills for those using less than 3,000 kwh per month. Duncan said that he didn’t agree that all of for-
mer TD bank chief economist Don Drummond’s recommendations needed to be followed in order to balance the provincial books by 2017-2018 – an assessment that Harris disagrees with. “We paid an astronomical amount of money to have him put this big report together and the government ignores it,” Harris said. “If you’re going to pull off and backtrack on these rec-
ommendations, you need to put something back on the table that would make up for that cost.” Trying to work within a minority government, there are hints of the Liberals trying to appease both parties in this budget – for example a public-sector wage freeze for the Tories, and a refusal to drop the corporate tax rate to 10 per cent from its current rate of 11.5 per cent until the budget is balanced for the NDP
– but the Conservatives say that they simply cannot accept the current budget as it stands today. The government plan calls for per capita spending in 2011-2012 to be $8,560, the lowest among the provinces, and the government says that $17.7 billion in savings and cost containment will be realized over the next three years. Yet with money-wasting boondoggles like eHealth
and ORNGE still fresh in Ontarians’ minds, Harris said that most people will find it hard to make sacrifices in their own lives when the government is unwilling to do the same. With the Conservatives refusal to pass the budget, should the NDP also refuse to pass it – a decision they’ll likely come to in the next week or so – Ontarians could be headed back to the polls, something that is undesirable
but may be necessary, Harris said. “We don’t want an election – that’s the last thing Ontarians want and the last thing the people in my riding want, and I don’t want an election – but they also don’t want a $30-billion deficit,” said Harris. “Enough is enough. The only way we can stop this bleeding and stop this government from spending is by getting rid of them.”
6 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
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Children run to find Easter eggs hidden through out Riverside Meadows Park in St. Jacobs last year. The event has been sponsored by the Optimist Club for the last seven years. [OBSERVER FILE PHOTO]
St. Jacobs Optimists prep for annual Easter Egg Hunt COLIN DEWAR
If there’s one thing that’s associated with Easter it’s the egg, particularly the chocolate kind. And nothing conjures up the childhood experience like an Easter egg hunt. For seven years now, the Optimist Club of St. Jacobs has been making the holiday more memorable with its annual Easter Egg Hunt. This year, the seventh outing, the event is set for Apr. 7 at Riverside Meadows Park on Water Street in St. Jacobs. “This is a fun event for young children that the organization holds every year,” said Bob Wilbur, a member of the club’s board of directors. Members of the Optimist Club will hide hundreds of eggs throughout the park waiting for the children to find them. “We plan to have the kids go in groups according to age, starting with the younger ones. It works
out better that way and gives the really young kids a chance to find some eggs without competing with bigger, older kids,” said Wilbur. “Some will be sitting on the grass, other behind trees; it will be very easy for the kids to find them.” Most of the eggs hidden in the park will be plastic with a small toy or candy hidden inside but there will be a few classic chocolate eggs among the plastic ones, assured Wilbur. Families with children from one to 11 years of age can enjoy balloons, prizes, the egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
The egg hunt starts at 10 a.m. sharp and usually lasts an hour. The children are kept back from the eggs until they are motioned to start the hunt – the ensuing scramble lasts only minutes. “It doesn’t take long for kids to find all the eggs when they know candy is involved. We have had a great turnout over the last few years and I expect this year will be no different.” There is no charge for the children to participate in the hunt. “It is just a fun day and gathering for kids to enjoy,” he explained.
NEWS | 7
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
Wellesley PS second in national contest
Grade 8 class takes second place in Sir John A. Macdonald competition sponsored by Historica Dominion Institute JAMES JACKSON Grade 8 students at Wellesley Public School have finished as runnersup in a national competition aimed at raising awareness about Canada’s first prime minister. The first annual Sir John A Day – named after Sir John A. Macdonald – was held on Jan. 12 at the school and the 53 students dressed in traditional gowns and suits worn during the mid-19th century, transformed the classroom into a ballroom, and students played live music and danced the minuet for the last two periods of the day. They had another teacher, John Settle, come in and portray Sir John A to the class, served apple cider in plastic wine cups, and the class also enjoyed Sir John A’s favourite treat – homemade shortbread. The 197th birthday celebration was organized by the Historica Dominion Institute, a non-profit group aimed at increasing public knowledge, understanding and appreciation of Canadian history. “Initially, it’s Grade 8 and they think they should be first in everything,” said history teacher Joanne Aitken of the students’ response to finishing second. “They were a little disappointed, but when they saw the prize they received and understood the extent of this and how many schools entered, they knew they did very well.” More than 200 schools across Canada were entered in the contest, and the winner – a Catholic elementary school in Richmond Hill – received an iPad for the classroom. The runners-up, however,
The 53 Grade 8 students at Wellesley Public School were the runners-up in a national competition known as Sir John A Day that aimed to raise awareness of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald. [JAMES JACKSON / THE OBSERVER] received a two-volume history of Canada’s first prime minister written by Richard Gwyn, as well as a commemorative button and a certificate. “We received a great prize, whereas the winner just got an iPad for the classroom,” laughed Aitken. “So we thought we did pretty well.” Prizes aside, Aitken also said that the contest did a fantastic job of achieving what it set out to do, and that was to teach the public more about the life and times of Sir John A, and Wellesley students were immersed in the 19th century throughout the day, which provided a big boost to their understanding of the time period in which he lived. “We created that atmosphere and that era,” she said. “Instead of just memorizing it for a test, they were there. And they’ll never forget that Jan. 11 was his birthday.” The project also drew on students’ talents and passions that Aitken may not
have otherwise gotten a chance to see; one student drew a sketch of Sir John A that was posted in the classroom, another built a wooden bar to serve the apple cider from, while a third played background music on the piano. “It really engaged them,” Aitken said. John Alexander Macdonald was born in Scotland on Jan. 11, 1815 and immigrated with his family to Kingston, Ontario at the age of five. He mastered Latin and French by the age of 12 and by 1836 he was a licensed lawyer. On July 1, 1867 the British North America Act came into effect, giving birth to the country of Canada. That same day he was knighted by Queen Victoria in recognition of his efforts and on Aug. 7 he became the nation’s first prime minister. For more information on the Historica Dominion Institute or Sir John A Day, visit www.sirjohnaday.ca or www.historica-dominion.ca.
John Settle, a teacher at Wellesley PS and part-time actor, portrayed the man of the hour during their celebration held on Jan. 12, one day after the actual birthday of Sir John A. MacDonald. [SUBMITTED]
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8 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
JOE MERLIHAN PUBLISHER STEVE KANNON EDITOR
COMMENT
DONNA RUDY SALES MANAGER
JAMES JACKSON REPORTER
COLIN DEWAR REPORTER
PAT MERLIHAN PRODUCTION MANAGER
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PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER 1004840 | ISSN 12039578
OUR VIEW / EDITORIAL
THE VIEW FROM HERE
Earth Hour a symbol of the changes ahead LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE ON the planet, you’ll be asked to turn off the lights for an hour tonight (Saturday) at 8:30 p.m. The action is purely symbolic, but the goal is to send a message to world leaders: we’re serious about conservation and the steps needed to tackle climate change. Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when two million people switched off their lights. In 2008, more than 50 million people around the globe participated. Last year, participation swelled to 1.8 billion people as 5,200 cities in 135 countries participated. The move is purely symbolic, clearly. That said, even turning off one light in recognition of the event helps spread awareness. No matter what your take on climate change, there’s no denying there are benefits to conserving energy and shifting to alternative means of generating it, though as this week’s provincial budget reminds us, the government has come under constant criticism for its energy policies. Ontario has promised to phase-out the use of coal, but such plants remain in use, churning out pollutants that harm the environment and contribute to the greenhouse gas problem. A gas-fired generating station produces less than half the greenhouse gas emissions of a coal plant, a fraction of the smog builders like sulphur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, and no harmful mercury and lead, the OCAA argues, adding that energy from renewable sources is far cleaner still. Such sources include the Woolwich Bio-En Inc. plan for a $12-million biogas facility in Elmira. The province’s approval of that project has council and some residents up in arms, though the township no longer has any direct say over the development, thanks to the Green Energy Act, which streamlines the process. The idea is to bring more renewable energy projects online quickly. Neighbours are understandably concerned, largely about the potential for odours and noise coming from the plant, which will convert organic waste such as manure into biogas, subsequently producing electricity and steam heat. As Ontario pushes ahead with more alternative energy sources – wind, solar and biomass, to name a few – we can expect more small-scale projects like the one proposed for Elmira, and more gatherings of concerned neighbours. Whether it’s the noise of turbines, the aesthetics of solar farms or the odours of biodigesters, there are going to be conflicts if we hope to move away from megaprojects to small, community-based solutions to meet our demand for electricity. The Bio-En project has neighbours worried. This is largely the fear of the unknown: No matter how many reassurances are offered by the company, residents really have no idea what to expect. Of course, the cheapest, cleanest and most hassle-free way to deal with our energy needs is to reduce consumption. Ontarians spend more than $7 billion a year on electricity to power their homes and small businesses. Just a 10 per cent conservation saving would leave an additional $700 million in our pockets. That’s the kind of pragmatic thinking we should be doing as we sit in the dark, perhaps enjoying a little extra peace and quiet, while observing Earth Hour at 8:30 Saturday night.
Given the sunshine list and wasteful spending, the public is fully onside with restraint and cutbacks in the wages for provincial and municipal workers. WORLD VIEW / GWYNNE DYER
There's symmetry in two tales of random slaughter WORLD AFFAIRS After Mohamed Merah died in a hail of French police bullets Mar. 22, people who had known him talked about “a polite and courteous boy” who liked “cars, bikes, sports and girls.” His friends had trouble believing that he had murdered seven people, including three children, in a10-day killing spree in the city of Toulouse, and none of them believed his claim to be a member of al-Qaeda. “Three weeks ago he was in a nightclub,” one said. The following day, in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Robert Bales was charged with murdering 17 Afghans, including nine children, in a lone night-time attack on sleeping civilians in two villages near Kandahar three weeks ago. “I can’t believe it was him,” said Kasie Holland, his nextdoor neighbour in Lake Tapps, Washington. “There were no signs. It’s really sad. I don’t want to believe that he did it.”
There are startling parallels in these cases, right down to the fact that Mohamed Merah held a little girl by the hair as he shot her in the head, and that Robert Bales allegedly pulled little girls from their beds by their hair to shoot them. And there is, of course, the underlying symmetry of the motives: both men were responding, in confused ways, to the “war on terror” that former U.S. president George W. Bush launched after the 9/11 attacks. In Bales’s case, the trigger may have been a fourth deployment to a combat zone after three one-year deployments in Iraq since 2003, during which he suffered concussion and lost part of a foot. He also had money problems, but it was Afghans he shot, not bankers. In his mind it was Afghans, Muslims, whatever, who were causing his problems. Both men had had runins with the law: Bales for assault in 2002, Merah for stealing a woman’s handbag in 2007. But Merah spent two years in prison for the mugging, and while there, as is often the case with teenage Muslim
thugs, he was converted to the extremist Islamic ideology called Salafism. Mohamed Merah videotaped his attacks, so we know that just before he shot his first victim, an unarmed French paratrooper, Merah told him: “You kill my brothers, I kill you.” He was an unemployed small-time criminal with delusions of grandeur, and he wanted to “bring the French state to its knees” in retaliation for French participation in America’s war in Afghanistan. His claim to belong to al-Qaeda, however, was probably just a private fantasy. Predictably, Marina Le Pen, leader of the extreme right National Front, called on French voters to “fight ... against these politico-religious fundamentalists who are killing our Christian children, our Christian young men.” (She is running in next month’s presidential election, after all.) The incumbent right-wing president, Nicolas Sarkozy, says much the same thing, but less bluntly. Yet two of the three French paratroopers Merah killed were Muslims. The
other dead soldier, a Christian of West Indian origin, just had the bad luck to be in the street with two Muslim comrades when Merah found them. (He was deliberately targeting French Muslim soldiers as traitors to his cause.) Merah was hunting another Muslim soldier when he found himself outside a Jewish school and seized the chance to murder a young rabbi, his 5- and 3-year-old sons, and 8-year-old Myriam Monsonego. It was a monstrous act, but in his disordered mind he believed that he was taking revenge for the Muslims who had been killed in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. It’s no excuse, but it is an explanation. And the more relevant fact is that only one out of perhaps two million young Muslim French males has committed such an atrocity. What happened is appalling, but it is statistically insignificant. It should also be politically insignificant, but that may be too much to ask in the midst of a presidential election campaign. DYER | 11
COMMENT | 9
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
THEIR VIEW / QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Do you think the province is on the right track with the budget?
»»Chris Watson
»»Denis Bacon
I agree with the governments ideals to reduce No I don’t think we are on the right track. the deficit but I feel they did not address that in the budget.
»»Robyn Cameron
»»Kevin Beattie
»»Christine Gilbert
No.
Yes, I feel the province is heading in the right direction.
We do need to change our ways but I don’t feel the province is heading in the right direction.
"... it is a reminder that 10 years occupying a foreign country will make any army hated from without and rotten within." Gwynne Dyer | Page 8 HIS VIEW / STEVE KANNON
More than cuts, we need government with it's priorities in the right order EDITOR'S NOTES Cuts, make that squeezes, to Ontario’s health care spending were an inevitable part to this week’s provincial budget – it’s the single-largest cost center. Don Drummond’s report called for it. Cabinet ministers hinted at it, especially in reference to wage restraint. The outcry, particularly from public sector unions, was equally predictable. There are no cuts, however, only a reduction in the pace of spending increases. Last year, health care costs were up 6.5 per cent. This year, the goal is 2.1 per cent. Spending will still go up, to $48.7 billion in 2012-2013. Exactly how the reductions will be made is still up in the air. Physicians will certainly be asked for wage freezes, at the very least. The budget contains some of the usual vague language about efficiencies and new funding models, but few details. However
the savings – if savings they can be called given that costs are still going up – come about, they’re long overdue. Health care spending has been outstripping inflation and economic growth for years, an unsustainable situation. Whatever Premier Dalton McGuinty’s government comes up with, however, will only be tinkering at the margins. He, like all other politicians, has no stomach for the conversation that’s really needed, namely the huge amounts of money spent on what could be deemed marginal cases: extending end-of-life dates of the seriously ill by weeks or months, often with the elderly and those with terminal diseases. Also on that list, with some crossover, are expensive drug therapies that provide little extra benefit and the payment structure for doctors that tends to reward interventions, no matter how useful, over preventative medicine. Some of those points easily lead to the death panel hysteria seen with Obamacare debates in the U.S. Even without that kind
HOW TO REACH US
long after someone else is in office. But just like pension reform, changes must be made now to avoid crises later. And the fewer crises the better, as they are invariably used by antigovernment organizations, typically on the right-wing, as an excuse for changes that benefit the few at the expense of the rest of us. Every boondoggle and every mismanaged situation serves to undermine the legitimacy of government, in turn opening it up to the threat of would-be reformers. Ontarians suffering from tax fatigue and becoming fed up with the exorbitant cost of public sector wages, benefits and pensions, could easily reach the breaking point, becoming willing to cut off their noses to spite their faces. With that in mind, public sector unions already moaning and complaining about the budget would be
wise to shut their mouths, duck their heads and prepare to give back after years of overly-generous contracts from the McGuinty government. Many of the jobs could see wages cut in half and still have a long line of people waiting to take them: remember, inclusion on the sunshine list puts someone in the top five per cent of wage earners, and represents more than twice the average income. Given that wages make up more than half of government costs, serious rollbacks would be an enticing way to deal with deficits. The public appears poised to go along with that line of thinking. And the sentiment isn’t contained just to the province. The federal government plans employment cuts to its civil service, with no public outcry. Municipalities, too, are ripe for an overhaul. As a recent piece in the Waterloo Region Re-
cord notes, spending driven by wage increases has fueled huge property tax increases locally even as real-world incomes have declined in the last few years. Local politicians interviewed trot out the old chestnut about everybody wants services to continue not face cuts. Costs increases because they don’t contain them. They also have no appetite for making tough decisions: it’s much easier to say yes. In reality, there are supporters for every program where money is spent, no matter how few people are served – see the extension of bus service to Woolwich, for instance. Politicians must learn to say no, learn to sell the benefits of not spreading resources so thin such that many things are done but done poorly. The current cast of characters at all levels can learn to do that, or be prepared to make room for those who can.
WHERE WORD-OF-MOUTH GETS IT'S START.
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of hyperbole, some will argue that the system shouldn’t be rationing services like that, perhaps deciding who lives and who dies. Fact is, however, that we already do that. There are waiting lists, it can take ages to see specialists and patients are prioritized based on their conditions. Then there’s the issue of prevention versus emergency care, somewhat touched on in the budget. Advocates of reform have argued for years that we’re better off spending money upfront to prevent illness – promoting healthier lifestyles, smoking-cessation, obesity-avoidance – than to essentially bail people out of the poor health choices they’ve made all along by pumping much more cash into acute care at the end of their lives. Unable to make basic cuts, or even compensate for the billions wasted on the likes of eHealth and ORNGE, the government is certainly not going to consider, let alone make the tough decisions. Much easier to keep on spending, putting off the issue until the crunch comes ... ideally
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10 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
DYER: Situation will only get
NATIONAL VIEW
worse the longer troops stay CONTINUED FROM | 8
The United States is also heading for a presidential election this year, but the only role that the war in Afghanistan has in the campaign is ritual accusations by Republican candidates that President Obama is “soft on terror.” (On the contrary, he has become the willing prisoner of the Washington foreign policy consensus that still defends the profoundly misconceived Afghan adventure.) As for the Bales atrocity, it is already being written off by the American media and public as a meaningless aberration that tells us nothing about U.S. foreign policy or national character. Not so. It tells us that
the character of American soldiers is no better or stronger than anybody else’s, and it is a reminder that 10 years occupying a foreign country will make any army hated from without and rotten within. The army will become even more demoralized and undisciplined if it is a professional force that rotates the same soldiers through repeated combat tours with no visible success on the horizon. Recent instances of American soldiers urinating on dead Taliban fighters and burning Qurans are symptoms of the same malaise that finally drove Bales around the bend. Obama should not wait until 2014. It’s time to go home.
THE MONITOR
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Eldale Veterinary Clinic Is pleased to announce the addition to our staff of
Dr. Kyle Steeves
Dr. Kyle Steeves graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph in April of 2011. During his time in veterinary school Kyle focused on large animals, doing placements in Minnesota, eastern Ontario and a summer externship at Eldale Veterinary Clinic. Before attending OVC, he completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Queen’s University in Kingston. Growing up in Aurora, he always enjoyed spending time at his friend’s farms and was fascinated by the large animals. He has spent time working in the thoroughbred industry in addition to working with pleasure horses. His areas of interest include dentistry, metabolic diseases and foal care. Although he doesn’t currently own any horses he is keen to jump back in the saddle in the near future. Dr. Steeves is excited to work with the diverse array of horses and other livestock that are in the Waterloo region and welcomes your calls to discuss the care of your animals.
150 Church St. W., Elmira | 519-669-5672
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
VERBATIM
Beer and liquor stores and agencies sold $20.3 billion worth of alcoholic beverages during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2011, up 2.0% from the previous year. Beer remained the alcoholic drink of choice for Canadians. In litres of absolute alcohol, the volume of sales of alcoholic beverages decreased 0.5% to 228.4 million litres.
»»Statistics Canada
The Elmira Sugar Kings defended their Cherrey Cup championship by defeating the Stratford Cullitons 5-4 on Mar. 27, 2002.
"I obviously want to know the extent of the investigations, how many possibly valid complaints have been sent in, how many ridings are being investigated, whether its just robo-calls or it's beyond that, to just try to get a sense of what Elections Canada or the elections commissioner is actually investigating."
»»MP Marc Garneau, the Liberal vice-chair of the procedure and »»From the Mar. 30, 2002 edition of the Observer. House affairs committee, wants Chief Electoral Officer Marc Mayrand to be a little less tight-lipped about his investigations
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
And the band played on
ELMIRA’S BANDSTAND | 11
First built in 1892, the structure that’s been a mainstay of Elmira’s core is in need of restoration work COLIN DEWAR
WHEN THE MUSIC RETURNS to Elmira’s Gore Park for the popular summer concert series, the bandstand there will be continuing a role that has made it a fixture in the downtown core for 120 years.
The original bandstand is thought to have been located behind a hotel on the northwest corner of Church and Arthur Street and erected by the hotel owner, Henry Zilliax, in 1892. The hotel, the Anglo-American House, was destroyed in a fire in 1898, along with the Union Hotel, but the bandstand survived and was transported to Gore Park when the block was rebuilt.
A few hundred spectators came out to see Lynn Russwurm perform during a summer concert in the bandstand at Gore Park last year. The bandstand has been at the heart of the musical series for decades. “We think it is the same bandstand sitting in Gore Park. We have no paper trail but old photos show it looking exactly like the one at the hotel,” said Bertha Thompson, a local historian. “It was originally built as a way to gather people and (Zilliax) sold beer and liquor to increase business, but when the hotel was rebuilt they needed more space and it is believed that the bandstand then moved to Gore Park.” By 1912, the bandstand was starting to look tired and Elmira’s council
Music has always been an important part of Elmira. This was the Elmira Band in the late-19th century. – Waterloo Historical Foundation
decided to erect a new one from a design prepared by members of the Elmira Musical Society, calling for tenders from local carpenters. Abraham Martin Bowman submitted a bid of $33, half of what his competitors were asking, and council accepted it. Bowman, a son of a carpenter, had established a contracting business in Elmira in 1911 and was well prepared to “show the community he was up to the challenge of building the structure that would display the quality of work he could do.” “It stood for 76 years: he did a good job building that bandstand, he took care of his craft,” said Elmira resident Ruth Josephs, Bowman’s great-grandniece. There are indications that Bowman used parts of the existing bandstand built by Zilliax, said Josephs.
The original bandstand did not have a roof which was added by Bowman as he transformed the rectangular cross bracing of the structure into squares. By doing this he increased the number of cross-braces around the perimeter providing more rigidity for the posts that supported the new roof. “Bowman redesigned the cross members to be tighter to allow the weight of the roof of the bandstand to be equally distributed,” said Thompson. The roof was originally shingled with asbestos slate tiles that served to protect the eight seams of the octagonal roof. The bandstand did not just provide a stage for music, it also created a sense of community, as weekly concerts were held that BANDSTAND | 12
12 | ELMIRA’S BANDSTAND
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
p
The bandstand was originally built at the corner of Arthur and Church streets by Henry Zilliax outside his hotel, the Anglo-American House
1898
1912
p
Arthur Bowman of Elmira wins the contract to restore the bandstand and builds the octagonal roof.
p
1892
p
Elmira celebrates its centennial year and plans to have the bandstand renovated to mark the event.
1986
1988
p
The bandstand is fully renovated and designated a heritage structure
The bandstand is once again in need of a full restoration and Woolwich Township earmarks $80,000 to deal with the basic structural deficiencies and launches a community fundraiser to encourage residents to contribute to the effort.
p
ELMIRA BANDSTAND / TIMELINE Lightning hits a stable located between the AngloAmerican House and the Union Hotel, destroying both buildings in a fire. The bandstand survives and is moved to Gore Park during the rebuild
2012
another new life for the ol’ bandstand
The bandstand was originally built in 1892, with an addition added in 1912. It underwent a renovation in the 1980s and is now in need of a full restoration including replacing the rotten wood, the asbestos shingles on the roof and a new paint job.
[COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER]
BANDSTAND: Township has established community fund to help with restoration efforts FROM | 11
drew large crowds. For decades the downtown core would be busy on either a Thursday or Saturday night as people from all over would make their way down to the bandstand to listen to the weekly concert performed by the Elmira Band. “When we moved here in 1956 I remember hearing music through out the town as the band would practice at the bandstand for the weekly shows,” said Thompson. “It was a very important part of the social life in Elmira.” The bandstand was used for regular band concerts and social events. When men went off to the wars, they were bid goodbye from the bandstand with concerts and speeches. It was also used as a platform for politicians to speak to members of the community, said Thompson. “This was a time before televi-
sion, a time when people got together not to just listen to music but to be social and meet neighbours,” added Josephs. “Numerous politicians have used or visited the site of the bandstand, including prime ministers John Diefenbaker and William Lyon Mackenzie King.” A social gathering place, the bandstand held many community events and churches would use it for their meetings. “For a long time it was the heart of Elmira,” said Thompson. “Every week people would come down to the bandstand to listen to music and talk with their neighbours and find out all the local gossip,” said Josephs. In the 1920s, Mary Hambly of Elmira saw these weekly gatherings with an entrepreneur’s eye. With the bandstand located across the street from her home she began to sell food and ice cream to those in attendance. “She would set up a stand by
her porch and sold ice cream, which was a specialty because there were no freezers or refrigerators in the houses,” said Josephs. “She capitalized on all these people coming to the weekly concert and started making a living because of it.” Eventually she would outgrow the porch and move her business down the street, opening up Hambly Grocery, which became a fixture in Elmira for many years. By the 1980s, the bandstand looked more like the leaning tower of Pisa. Bowman had given the old bandstand new life by reusing the old base and building a roof on to it but over the years the wood had begun to rot and the bandstand was in need of a restoration. When Woolwich Township decided to have the bandstand designated as a heritage structure and renovate it for Elmira’s centennial celebrations in 1986
they found that Bowman had erected columns on top of the original bandstand’s supporting posts and not on footings in the ground, which had caused the structure to tilt over the years. “The first restoration they found there were a lot of things to repair and fix that they did not expect,” said Thompson. The restoration of the bandstand was originally planned to have coincided with the centennial celebrations of the town in 1986, but it would not be completed until June 1988. Dan Waters of New Day Contracting in Wallenstein won the bid for the restoration work. When making repairs the company faced many problems, including the rotten roof rafters and cornice, but managed to complete the work in the summer of 1988 when it was designated a heritage structure. The bandstand is once again in need of a major restoration
and the township has launched a community fundraising drive, with residents encouraged to contribute to the effort. Much of the wood is again rotting and needs to be replaced. The same goes for the existing asbestos shingles on the roof. Council has earmarked $80,000 to deal with the basic structural deficiencies. The bandstand has a historic value for the entertainment it provided throughout the years but is also historically significant as it is one of the last of its type in the country. “As far as I know, the bandstand in Elmira and one located in Halifax are the only two bandstands of their type to still be standing,” said Thompson. “They are open all the way around allowing visitors to sit anywhere to listen to the music; most band shells today are closed off in the back as that allows the music to travel out to the audience.”
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
2012
DRAYTON KINSMEN FARM SHOW | 13
Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show
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0 John Deere 73
Drayton Farm Show April 4-5, 2012 @ PMD Arena Complex, Drayton. Please send a copy of this form and cheque payable to “Kinsmen Club of Drayton” c/o Rick Becker, 2 Bluebird Place, Elmira, ON, N3B 1W6. (519) 210-7425.
John Deere 730 (1958-1961) Manufactured in Waterloo, Iowa, USA, Argentina and Mexico. The original price was $3,700. 59 PTO hp. A total of 24,495 of these tractors were built. They had 2 cylinder engines with the options of gasoline, all-fuel, LP gas, and diesel. Along with the 720, it held a 27 year fuel economy record for most efficient diesel tractor. Notable options were the deluxe flat-top fenders with headlights, power steering, and float-ride seat.
14 | DRAYTON KINSMEN FARM SHOW
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
2012 Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show The 2012 farm show will be held on
Wednesday, April 4th and Thursday, April 5th TM
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DRAYTON KINSMEN FARM SHOW | 15
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
2012 Drayton Kinsmen Farm Show
31ST ANNUAL FARM SHOW The 2012 farm show will be held on
Wednesday, April 4th and Thursday, April 5th We’re in your
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16 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
SPORTS OMHA/ CHAMPIONS
ELMIRA/ SUGAR KINGS
No repeat as Kings fall to Stratford
Major Atom AA squad capture OMHA title Woolwich team repeats victory after stepping up from Minor A last season JAMES JACKSON
needs the credit: they never gave up, they kept battling and put pucks on net and they got a few bounces here and there in their favour,” said DeSilva. The hits started to get harder and the Cullitons began to provoke Elmira players after the whistle, leading to unnecessary penalties to forwards Michael Hasson and Brad Kraus. That led to a momentum swing that Stratford easily took command of, eventu-
The Woolwich Major Atom AA hockey team laid claim to their second consecutive Ontario Minor Hockey Association championship thanks to a threegame sweep of Whitby on Mar. 23. The team is virtually the same lineup as the Minor Atom A team that took home the OMHA title last season, one of four Woolwich teams to make it to the finals. “It’s nice to put a bit of a stamp on this year where we were maybe a bit of an underdog,” said head coach Tony Code. The team made the jump to the AA level of play this season, and Code said many teams may have overlooked Woolwich with the assumption that they were in over their heads. The team responded to the higher level of competition by wrapping up the OMHA title in just three games. “We were able to prove people wrong and that’s a testament to what kind of commitment and the hard work that these guys put
KINGS | 22
OMHA CHAMPS | 20
An emotional Elmira goaltender Nick Horrigan speaks to four young fans after losing to the Stratford Cullitons 4-3 in Game Six of their second-round series, a loss that eliminated the Kings from the playoffs. [COLIN DEWAR/OBSERVER]
COLIN DEWAR It was an emotional night at the Dan Snyder Memorial Arena last Sunday as the defending Sutherland Cup all-Ontario Jr. B hockey champions, the Elmira Sugar Kings, lost to the visiting Stratford Cullitons in Game Six of their second round series, eliminating them from the playoffs. The Cullitons managed to erase a two-goal deficit in the third period to clinch the series with a 4-3 win
over the Kings. “It was a huge game. We were down 3-1 going into the third period and any time you are playing the champs you have to knock them out,” said Cullitons head coach Phil Westman after the game. “I think Elmira is the strongest team in the league – the puck just bounced our way tonight.” The Kings were on a high after defeating Stratford at the Allman Arena two nights before in a nail-biter that saw the Elmira squad ahead by three midway
through the second period only to be forced into overtime as the Cullitons managed to claw their way back with three unanswered goals of their own in regulation time. The Kings did not waste any time in the forced frame, as Brett Priestap sealed the deal with a clutch goal 36 seconds into the period. The win kept Elmira’s hopes alive heading back to home ice. “Brett Priestap is just a heart and soul player, and he did everything that he
possibly could out on the ice and then some. I would love to have a team of Brett Priestaps,” said Dean DeSilva Kings head coach. Back home, the Kings were in complete control of Sunday’s game until the third period when emotions began to run high, overwhelming the team. “As coaches we can talk to them all we want about controlling their emotions, but once that game starts it is up to the players to figure it out. For 45 minutes of the game they did, but Stratford
Elmira’s Erin Zach helps lead RIT to national championship JAMES JACKSON Elmira resident Erin Zach helped make NCAA history on Mar. 17 when her Rochester Institute of Technology teammates captured the school’s first Division III women’s ice hockey national championship. “It’s an indescribable feeling. It was amazing,” said an elated Zach from her parent’s home in Elmira, where she is recovering
from an illness. The RIT Tigers scored three third-period goals in front of a home crowd of nearly 1,200 fans to snap a 1-1 tie and defeat the defending national championship team from Norwich University. Zach also said the presence of her parents, who make the three-and-ahalf hour drive to Rochester for almost all of her games, was a big boost. “The fans were amaz-
ing and it was great being at home and not having to travel and everyone was cheering so loudly when we won,” she said, adding it was nice to get revenge on the Norwich team that had beaten RIT in last year’s championship game. Although she was kept off the scoreboard in the final game, the title caps off a strong season for Zach in her second year of play for the Tigers.The forward
finished with six goals and eight assists in 27 games this year, helping RIT set a Division III record for wins with 28. In the finals Zach said the coaches and players stressed keeping the game simple and just continue to play their own style of game. “We just talked about how we should play our game and not take any dumb penalties,” she said. “Just
keep up the good work that we had done all year, and go out and do what we can do.” “This is a team that played hard thoughout the season. Going into the third period tonight at 1-1, we knew we weren’t losing,” said RIT head coach Scott McDonald. “We wanted it more, blocked shots, got in lanes, did all the little things that allowed us to win.” The Tigers are now 54-3-3
over the past two seasons and shortly after the championship win announced they would be moving up to Division I play starting next season. Normally a twoyear process, the team was admitted due to Niagara University dropping its women’s hockey program, a move announced last week. Zach said that her coaches and teammates are ZACH | 17
SPORTS | 17
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
SWEEP GIVES TC ATOMS THE OMHA CHAMPIONSHIP
THE SCORE Woolwich: 4 New Hamburg: 3 (shootout) Goals: Simon Shantz x3, Dustin Good Assists: Simon Shantz
WOOLWICH WILDCATS
Novice: LL #1
New Hamburg Novice LL Tournament Mar 24 vs New Hamburg Woolwich: 2 New Hamburg: 1 Goals: Ben Fretz x2 Assists: Logan Beard Mar 24 vs New Hamburg Woolwich: 2 New Hamburg: 1 Goals: Ben Fretz x2 Mar 24 vs Twin Centre Woolwich: 3 Twin Centre: 2 Goals: Ben Fretz x2, James McCormick Assists: Corbin Schmidt, Logan Beard
Mar 26 vs Ayr Woolwich: 5 Ayr: 3 Goals: Simon Shantz x4, Dustin Good Assists: Nolan Karger x2, Thomas Hill-Ring, Lucas Radler, Dustin Good, Jackson Dumart League D Division winners
Atom: LL # 7547
Mar 19 vs Ayr Woolwich: 4 Ayr: 3 Goals: Simon Shantz x2, Dustin Good x2 Assists: James Berti, Sam Siopiolosz, Nolan Karger Mar 24 vs New Hamburg Woolwich: 6 New Hamburg: 5
(OT) Goals: Simon Shantz x3, Dustin Good x2, Jackson Dumart Assists: Nolan Karger, James Berti
Mar 24 vs New Hamburg New Hamburg: 7 Woolwich: 1 Goals: Simon Shantz Mar 24 vs New Hamburg
Mar 25 vs Grand River Twin Centre: 2 Grand River: 0 Goals: Tyana Bruns x2 Assists: Marissa Lebold Shutout: Kylee Zacharczuk
Assists: Greg Huber, Connor Runstedler Mar 26 vs Centre Wellington Centre Wellington: 2 Woolwich: 1 (OT) Goals: Ryley Cribbin
Peewee: B Mar 23 vs Woodstock Twin Centre: 1 Woodstock: 0 Goals: Laura Weber Shutout: Tiffany Towns Mar 24 vs Woodstock Twin Centre: 2 Woodstock: 1 Goals: Leah Sebben, Lauren Quehl Assists: Lauren Quehl, Leah Sebben, Delanie Kidnie
Midget: MAJOR A
Mar 19 vs Georgetown Georgetown: 4 Woolwich: 3 Goals: Logan White, Adam Cook, Eric Hanley Assists: Wes Martin, Jordon Atom: MAJOR AA Moore, Dalton Taylor, Evan Yantha Mar 23 vs Whitby Mar 23 vs Georgetown Woolwich: 5 Whitby: 1 Georgetown: 4 Goals: Jake Code x2, Joshua Woolwich: 3 Martin, Lukas Shantz, Griffen Rollins Goals: Matthew Schieck, Matthew Townsend, Wes Martin Assists: Brody Waters, Jake Code, Eli Baldin, Kayden Assists: Ryan Ament, McKinley Zacharczuk, Owen Harnock Ceaser, Mathew Schieck Mar 25 vs Georgetown Woolwich: 4 Georgetown: 2 Peewee: AE Goals: Matthew Townsend. Ryan Mar 19 vs Waterloo Ament, Sebastein Huber, Evan Waterloo: 4 Woolwich: 3 Yantha Goals: Daniel Gallant, Earl Assists: Sebastein Huber, Schwartz, Cade Schaus Matthew Schieck, Jordon Moore, Assists: Benton Weber x2, Aaron McKinley Ceaser, Eric Hanley, Logan, Cade Schaus Justin Neeb Mar 27 vs Georgetown Bantam: MINOR A Georgetown: 4 Mar 24 vs Centre Wellington Woolwich: 1 Woolwich: 3 Goals: Matthew Schieck Centre Wellington: 2 Goals: Greg Huber x2, Colby Bond
Novice: LL #4
Marlee Fraser Assists: Brooklyn Reid x3, Avery Bender, Marlee Fraser
Midget: #1 Mar 26 vs Stratford The Twin Centre Atom AE team won the OMHA championship with a 3-game sweep over Centre Hastings. The team went undefeated in all 15 Twin Centre: 1 OMHA playoff games, sweeping all 5 of their series’, to become champions. Back row: Jeff Kaufman, David Zyta, Steve Krulicki, Dan Koebel. Stratford: 0 Middle row: Dylan Hehn, Caleb Wellman, Ben Hayden, Alex Kaufman, Curtis Butler, Blair Bender, Tyler Zyta, Devon Lee, Brock Krulicki, Josh Goals: Shannon Lorentz Hubert. Front row: Blair Gowing, Jack Koebel, Cameron Hoy, William Weber, Peter Holmes, Liam Robertson. [SUBMITTED] Shutout: Lindsay Dietrich Goals: Abby Leibold Shutout: Blair Gowing Tavistock: 2 HOW TO WOOLWICH Goals: Cole Bender, Joel Heise WILD SUBMIT TWIN CENTRE Peewee: REP Assists: Mitch Esbaugh x2, Cole YOUR STARS Mar 24 vs Tavistock Atom: LL Bender SCORES Twin Centre: 2 Mar 10 vs Wilmot Atom: AE ONLINE: Tavistock: 0 Woolwich: 0 TWIN CENTRE Mar 23 vs Centre Hastings Goals: Troy Hemmerich, Evan HERICANES Wilmot: 0 Twin Centre: 5 PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR WEEKLY Gowing Shutout: Brianna Fleming Centre Hastings: 0 SPORTS SCORES USING THE ONLINE Assists: Will Martin, Brett Hartin, Novice: LL #1 Mar 19 vs Cambridge SUBMISSION FORM AVAILABLE ON Goals: Jack Koebel x2, Ben Mar 26 vs Woolwich Jessica McLachlan OUR WEBSITE, OBSERVERXTRA. Hayden, Will Weber, Brock Cambridge: 3 Twin Centre: 5 COM. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS Shutout: Nathan Belcourt Krulicki Woolwich: 0 Woolwich: 3 WEDNESDAY AT 5:00 P.M. TO SUBMIT Mar 27 vs Tavistock Mar 24 vs Kitchener Assists: Brock Krulicki, Josh TEAM PHOTOS, PLEASE EMAIL: Goals: Katie Lee, Kara Dietrich, Twin Centre: 2 Kitchener: 7 Woolwich: 1 Hubert, Blair Bender, Curtis jjackson@woolwichobserver.com. Lindsay Miller, Halle Murray, Butler, Tyler Zyta
ZACH: NCAA Division III title was a first for women’s
A Place for Everyone!
hockey team that had a strong 2011-2012 season FROM | 16
taking a realistic approach to the move to the more competitive level of hockey. They’ve just won the national championships but are hard at work training for
next season, she said. “It’s definitely going to be different,” she said. “We’re hoping to be at least in the middle of the pack. It’s going to be hard but we’re in spring training right
now and doing some hard lifting to hopefully bulk up a little bit and play on the big stage.” Now in her second year of studying media arts and technology, the sophomore was accepted to RIT
on financial assistance after starring for the Cambridge Fury and the EDSS Lancers, and was named the Central Western Ontario Secondary School Association MVP in 2010.
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Elmira’s Erin Zach helped the RIT Tigers claim the Division III NCAA national championship earlier this month. Zach, a former EDSS star, contributed six goals and eight assists this year and the team is preparing to make the move to Division I play next season. [SUBMITTED]
18 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
SOLID GOLD REALTY (II)
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The Wellesley Applejacks are preparing for an offseason of rebuilding as their roster is set for a major shakeup following a five-game round one defeat to Ayr. Players from this year’s squad include: Parr, Mark Hamilton, Connor McLeod, Corey Way, Blair Witmer, Spencer Geoffrey, Brett Vickers, Chris Bauman, Matt Sovereign, Tyler Eckert, Jordan Bauman, Trevor Olender. Head coach Kevin Fitzpatr
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Sothern Ontario Junior Hockey League playoffs. The finish was a frustrating one for players and management alike, as they had hoped to not only avoid a repeat of last year’s opening-round fivegame defeat (also at the hand of the Centennials), but advance to the second round for the first time in more than four years.
It was not to be, however, which has forced management back to the drawing board for the 2012-2013 season a little earlier than they had hoped. “We’ve talked to a lot of players for next year, and there are a few that we’re really interested in,” said Jacks head coach and general manager Kevin Fitzpatrick earlier this
week. He said that the recruitment process was an ongoing on, and that they had targeted a handful of players that they are pursuing for next season. In the Junior hockey ranks, the process of planning for “next season” is a perennial one, with the uncertainty surrounding call-ups to more competitive leagues, players leav-
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SPORTS | 19
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
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ext season
ing for school or work, and the ever-present reality of age. With 19 players on the current roster 20 years of age or older in 2012, next year’s team will have a much different look than the squad that left the ice a month ago. Each team is only permitted four over-age players, and while they
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carried two this past year, Fitzpatrick said they will certainly fill all four positions for the upcoming season – though he gave no indication of who those players might be. Another source of uncertainty is the proposed merger of the Junior D and Junior C leagues, and Fitzpatrick is on that merger committee. He
said they plan to meet a couple of times in April, and that there are about 25 points that need to be worked out, with league alignment being the biggest issue, but the list also includes league rivalries and potential rivalries, transportation costs, and the scheduling of home games. “There are still a lot of
variables,” Fitzpatrick said. The timing for training camp for next season still has to be finalized, as it hinges on the outcome of the merger discussions, but as always, Fitzpatrick said the Jacks will ice a competitive team that can hopefully build on some of their success earlier this season.
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20 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
NOT SO GREAT OUTDOORSMAN / STEVE GALEA
Out having a hoot: so, who’s the turkey now? OPEN COUNTRY The other day I was out shooting my bow in the yard at noon when I heard the familiar call that says “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for you?” Since my mother wasn’t around, I knew it had to be a barred owl. Suddenly, it occurred to me that this was highly unusual. I mean for a grown man who has been out on his own for more than 30
years to still think that his mother cooks for him? Wow. Also, barred owls typically announce their presence at night – not in broad daylight. Which is why my quick and nimble mind arrived at two conclusions: either that was a hunter practicing with a barred owl call or this bird was what the owl community refers to as a day owl. Frankly, the calling was far too good to come from your run of the mill hunter. But let’s examine that possibility anyway shall we? First, let me explain that sometimes turkey hunters
use barred owl calls to locate turkeys that are sitting on the roost for the night. There’s something about that call that unnerves turkeys and causes them to sound off in loud response. Perhaps it might have to do with the fact that owls sometimes lop the heads off of turkeys as they try to rest. In any case, because of this, we hunters have learned to imitate barred owls in hopes of locating nervous birds on the roost – and also because it’s fun to do at social events. In a way, this is our version of a turkey IQ test. You
see, I figure only the truly stupid birds respond. The smart ones, I’m guessing, just remain absolutely silent and allow the owls to key in on that one bird among them who just can’t shut up – isn’t it funny that no matter the species, there’s always one like this in the gang? What could a turkey like that be thinking? Let’s face it; you’d have to be a fairly dumb human to yell in response to maniacal laughter and the revving of a chainsaw outside your tent. Sure, it’s a noble act of defiance, but it’s not exactly
prudent to let a psychotic predator know exactly where you are. But some turkeys can’t help themselves, I suppose. It’s just not in their nature to be quiet. As I said earlier, however, this was far too realistic a call to be a hunter. Besides it’s still way too early to roost birds. And you don’t do this at noon in any case. No, it had to be a day owl or at least one who is working overtime. Believe me, that’s weird, even as owls go. Either way, this incident worries me a bit. You see, the local flock was not on
the roost, but you’d think there would have been at least one dumb bird to take the bait and respond to that call. Yet there wasn’t. This has got me thinking that I might be dealing with some very cagey birds this turkey season. And that never bodes well for a hunter of my abilities. But, you know, when that barred owl sounded off for the second time, and I responded with my best gobbler imitation, I thought, there’s got to be at least one not-so-smart animal in the woods who can’t shut up. Let’s hope so.
OMHA CHAMPS: With title under their belts, the players now get ready for OHF competition FROM | 16
together every day,” said Code. The coach said the two teams were actually quite evenly matched, and that is reflected in the score of the opening two games played in Elmira. In Game 1 on Mar. 17 Woolwich managed a 2-0 win with both goals coming in the second period courtesy of Lukas Shantz and Justin Taylor. Goaltender Cyrus Martin had the shutout. Not to be outdone, Martin’s goaltending partner Riley Demers had his own shutout in Game 2 the next day in a 1-0 win over Whitby, and the lone goal came off the stick of Brody Waters. In Game 3, with the teams tied 1-1 after the first period, Woolwich responded with two goals in the second and two more in the third to seal the 5-1 win and the 3-0 series sweep.
The Woolwich Major Atom AA team won their second consecutive OMHA title by sweeping their 3-game series against Whitby. They advance to the OHF championships in Kitchener from April 13-15. Back row: John Robertson (coach), Tony Code (coach), Rob Cousineau (coach), Tim Rollins (coach). Second row: Kurtis Hoover, Owen Harnock, Josh Martin, Brody Waters, Austin Cousineau, Justin Taylor, Eli Baldin. Third row: Kayden Zacharczuk, Lukas Shantz, Jake Code, Griffen Rollins, Mackenzie (Bubba) Willms, Sam Davidson. Front: goalies Cyrus Martin and Riley Demers. [JAMES JACKSON/OBSERVER] Goals came courtesy of Griffen Rollins, and a pair For the head coach, 3 was important, because Josh Martin, Lukas Shantz, from Jake Code. sealing the deal in Game in the semi-finals against
Oakville the Woolwich team managed to erase a 2-0 series deficit by winning the next three to advance to the finals. “From a coaching standpoint it allowed me to talk to that and say ‘you can’t take your foot off the gas against this team because we were down and somebody allowed us to get back into it,’” said Code. Remarkably the team’s season still isn’t finished. They are now preparing to compete in the Ontario Hockey Federation finals that will see them faceoff against the best teams in the rest of the province from Apr. 13-15 in Kitchener. The OHF is the largest of three Hockey Canada branches that govern hockey in Ontario. “We’re still going. It was a big deal to win the OMHA’s but hopefully we can get re-focused and continue on.”
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SPORTS | 21
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
Elmira contingent gearing up to host Senior Games JAMES JACKSON
The annual Senior Games are headed for Elmira this summer, though they will be played under a slightly different format this year. Previously associated with District 26 of the Senior Games Association of Ontario for nearly 30 years, the two have severed their partnership this year, meaning the games will take on a new moniker as the Woolwich 55+ Invitational Games. “The format is the same. The rules and everything are all the same, it’s just that we’re on our own,” said chairperson George Read. The games are open to all seniors 55 years of age and older living within the seven areas of the Golden Triangle of Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, New Hamburg, Fergus, Elmira and Guelph, and participants do not need to be a part of any seniors group or association to participate. Read said that registration forms, along with a full schedule of events and information on how to register, will be distributed
“They take it seriously. A group of more than 50 seniors gathered at the seniors centre in the Woolwich Memorial Centre on Mar. 24 to play Solo, one of the card a little harder on that.” games that will be featured at the Woolwich 55+ Invitational Games from June 4-12 in Elmira. Some 700 athletes from across the Golden Especially cards,” he said. He said the games are not Triangle are expected to compete. [JAMES JACKSON/OBSERVER] “If you make a mistake, only a great way for seniors they’ll let you know.” to get involved in their comit cost $16,000 to operate euchre and bridge,” he said. to seniors’ activity centres The Woolwich 55+ Invimunity and to meet new the games, and he expects Bridge in particular has rethroughout those seven cittational Games are set for people, they will also prothe same this time around. ally picked up in popularity ies soon, and the deadline June 4-12. Registration is $8 vide a boost to local busisince the last time Woolwich Many of those fees are to for registration is May 16. for the first event entered nesses. He said they had cover the rental of the ice hosted the games back in The games include 21 and $3 for any additional about 700 athletes come to pad and the swimming pool 2005, nearly tripling in events, ranging from golf event. Return completed town in 2005, along with at the Woolwich Memorial numbers since then. and horseshoes to darts and registration forms and their families. Centre, as well as other fa“I haven’t a clue how to swimming, and they will cheques (payable to 55+ He also said that despite cilities. play it, but I watch somealmost all be played right Invitational Games) to; 55+ the age of the participants, “Fundraising isn’t as easy times,” Read said with a here in Elmira, save for 10Invitational Games, 24 Snythe competitive juices are as it used to be. Everything laugh. pin bowling, which will be der Ave. S., Elmira, N3B 1Y9. is tight, so we’ve had to work still flowing. Despite being in preparaplayed in Guelph. tion mode for more than When asked what the six months, Read said most popular games were at ARTHUR BANTAMS ARE TRI-COUNTY CHAMPS the event, there was no hesi- the group has had difficulty in fundraising for tation in his answer. the event. He said in 2005 “Card games. Euchre, bid
ELMIRA HOSTS REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Arthur Bantam Vipers celebrate their 2011/2012 Tri-County championship following a 3-0 series win against the Dundas Blues. The team included local players Kordic Weigel and Chace McCallum, who extend their gratitude to the coaching staff for a great season. Back row: John Benham, Jeff McKee, Zack Benham, Jacob Benham, Tristan Binkly, Kyle Stewart, Josh McKee, Marshall Green, Jason Nauta, Richard Nauta, Matt Coffey. Middle row: Jacob Brownson, Dennis Coffey, Josh Ellis, Josh Bowen. Front row: Kordic Weigel, Logan Gilder, Chace McCallum. [SUBMITTED]
NOVICE LL#3 UNDEFEATED IN MOUNT FOREST
The Waterloo Synchro Club hosted the Western Ontario Regional Championships on Mar. 24-25 in Elmira, where the club took home 27 podium finishes in 15 events, including 11 gold medals. Gold medalists included Amy Knechtel in the 15U solo event (left) and Jasmine Myers and Maggie Steinbach (above) in the 12U duet event. See page 30 for more photos. [SUBMITTED]
The Woolwich Novice LL #3 went undefeated in the Mount Forest Novice Top Hat Tournament Mar 25. Players: Matt Yorke, Keith Mikel, Aiden Von Kannen, Ryan Curtis, Brady Gingrich, Logan Frey, Jordan Chang, Mitchell Brubacher, Finn Matthews, Cole Seabrook, Will McDougall, Simon Bauman, Jon Horst. Goalie: Dominic Roth. Coaches: Kirby Gingrich, Craig Curtis, Matt Roth. [SUBMITTED]
22 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
KINGS: Defending Sutherland Cup champs let Game Six slip away from them in emotional contest FROM | 16
ally scoring the equalizer on a power play. “We had to come out playing with all we had in the third period. By no means did Elmira sit back and try and play defence, they tried to bring their game, but it is natural to sit back and the pressure was on them to seal it. When we scored to bring the game to 3-2 it ignited our bench and it sinks their bench. In Junior hockey there are so many momentum swings, and it just ran our way in this game,” said Westman. With the score tied at three apiece, the Cullitons forced Kings goalie Nick Horrigan to work between the pipes, creating confusion in front of the net that allowed Steve Dol to tip the game- and series-winner past Horrigan with just under five minutes left to play. The Kings would never recover. “The guys feel horrible but we let our emotions control us – that is part of the sport and life and growing up and learning. That is the life skill they can take out of this game,” said DeSilva. “I couldn’t have asked more from these guys. We were hoping to come into the room afterwards and it was going to be blood, sweat and cheers but unfortunately it was blood, sweat and tears.” As the final whistle blew the Kings took to centre ice and raised their sticks saluting more than 1,400 fans who packed the arena to see their team play. Slowly the Kings left the ice after receiving a standing ovation from the crowd. “It is real tough for teams to repeat and real tough
The Kings raise their sticks to salute the 1,400 fans at the Dan Snyder Memorial Arena after losing to Stratford and ending their playoff run. when you have an older team like we do because their emotions go up and down and a couple of years from now they are going to look back and think what did we do and what didn’t we do but I feel they gave everything they possibly had. I pushed them hard
all year and they gave me everything they had; I could not ask anymore from them,” said DeSilva. The Kings will lose eight players to graduation this year. A few players are off to the CIS and NCAA, including leading scorer Andrew Smith, who racked up 44
goals in the season, and netminder Horrigan, who compiled 51 wins against 23 loses and a career 0.912 save percentage. “We will be in full rebuilding mode next year,” said DeSilva. After the arena emptied, a visibly emotional Horrigan
[COLIN DEWAR/OBSERVER]
slipped out of the change room heading to the rink to look at the ice he called home for the last three seasons. Standing at rink level he was greeted by four young fans who each in turn gave their hero a hug and told him he had done all he
could. Horrigan spoke to the young boys for a few minutes as they told him they would all love to play as a King one day. He told them to work hard and never give up on their dreams before turning to the glass to look at the rink one last time as a King.
NOVICE LL#4 WINS NEW HAMBURG TOURNEY
THEY’RE D DIVISION CHAMPS
The Woolwich Novice LL#4 team won the B Division in the New Hamburg tournament, going undefeated in three games and beating Twin Centre 3-2 in the finals on Mar. 24. [SUBMITTED]
On Mar. 26, the Woolwich Novice LL #4 won the Grand River Local League D Division championship in St. Jacobs. Players include James Berti, Tanis Uhrig, Sam Siopiolosz, Daniel Kelly, Nolan Karger, Owen Hackert, Thomas Hill-Ring, Simon Shantz, Oscar Fitch, Lucas Radler, Jordan Wang, Jackson Dumart, Dustin Good, John Siopiolosz (coach), Dan Ring (trainer), Andrew Karger (manager), Brad Hackert (assistant coach), Chris Kelly (assistant coach). [SUBMITTED]
VENTURE | 23
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
VENTURE FOOD FOR THOUGHT/ OWEN ROBERTS
NEW BUSINESS / HEALTHY OUTCOMES
Trying to find just the right balance Pair of registered massage therapists establish a clinic in Breslau with launch of Achieve Balance COLIN DEWAR Entering Achieve Balance a massage therapy clinic located in the plaza on Dolman Street in Breslau, one is greeted with warm and calming earth tones setting the mood for a relaxing massage. Owners Shari Koudijs and Darlene Rahn, both registered massage therapists, began their new venture earlier this month and are glad to call the village home. “This is a growing community and we wanted to be apart of it and offer the services to the people of the area,” said Koudijs. “Breslau has the smalltown feel and there is a convenience for the people here as they can walk to their appointments. Everyone has commented on how nice it is that they can walk here.” The two friends said they saw an opportunity in being the first massage therapists in the area, as Breslau continues to grow and more businesses come into the neighbourhood. “Instead of living in Kitchener and working there, more and more people are opting to move to Breslau to raise their kids,” said Rahn, adding the proposed GO station will be giving the community a boost. “Breslau is the new bedroom community. It is perfectly centered for people who work in Elmira, Guelph or Cambridge there are a lot of opportunities here and we are taking advantage of that.” Both massage therapists have focused on different areas of the industry, with Rahn specializing in lymphedema patients and treating runners. Being a runner herself, she knows how to deal with such injuries. Koudijs specializes in breast cancer patients. She has also worked with many
pro athletes over the years, including members of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Hamilton Tiger Cats, giving her an expertise in dealing with athletic injuries. Achieve Balance also offers deep tissue massage, relaxation massages, sport massage, prenatal massage and infant massage, and the manual lymph drainage that requires clients to come in every day for two or three weeks. “Massage therapy can treat many conditions such as tendonitis, sprains, and we can focus on releasing chronic tension and lowering blood pressure, which helps improve our client’s sense of well being,” said Koudijs. The store offers two massage rooms, an ultra sound room and rehab area for cancer patients who do not have a large range of motion and the therapist teach them how to use weights, exercise mats and rollers to increase their range. Koudijs started in the profession in 1999 while working with amputees and was impressed with the quick results she was seeing with the scar tissue, allowing her clients to put their prosthetics on much faster than if they just let it heal on their own. “It was seeing those results that brought me to the profession, being able to help someone and make a difference was what I was seeking professionally.” For Rahn it was being a marathon runner that led her to massage therapy. MASSAGE THERAPY | 24
VENTURE PROFILE BUSINESS: Achieve Balance LOCATION: 10 Dolman St., Unit 2, Breslau PHONE: 519-213-0185 OWNERS: Shari Koudijs and Darlene Rahn
Got kids? Steer them towards agri-food FIELD NOTES
Darlene Rahn (left) and Shari Koudijs are the owners of Achieve Balance, a massage therapy clinic in Breslau. The two therapists specialize in a range of different massage techniques for their clients. Below, one of two massage rooms at the clinic that offer a warm and soothing atmosphere for clients looking to relax. [COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER]
Everyone wants the best for their kids, which has traditionally meant trying to steer them towards reliable jobs that keep them upwardly mobile or at least stable, and able to live within their means. I’m lucky my three kids have all, in some way, made agriculture and food their profession, either by choice, luck or marriage. I think they’ve made wise choices, and everywhere I look their decisions to be part of the industry are confirmed, particularly as the world wakes up to the need for a new emphasis on agriculture and food. It hit me again this week when I looked at conclusions from a group of scientific leaders from 13 countries (not Canada, sadly), called the Commission on Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change. They called for an “enabling environment” globally for all stakeholders in the agri-food sector – from small farmers to national governments – to invest in the economic and environmental resiliency of their land resources. A key part of the commission’s position is its inclusion of government reform. Too often, the emphasis is all put on farmers to make production changes that will help them address current and future hunger. But that won’t happen unless governments help create a working environment and culture that supports agrifood development. The commission cited seven action points. These included integrating food security and sustainable agriculture into global ROBERTS | 24
24 | VENTURE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
ROBERTS: Plenty of good career opportunities in the broader agri-food industry FROM | 23
and national policies, significantly raising the level of global investment in sustainable agriculture and food systems in the next decade, and creating comprehensive, shared, integrated information systems that encompass human and ecological dimensions. The latter point is where new careers in agricultural communications exist, particularly in a field called knowledge mobi-
lization, or knowledge translation and transfer. If no one can understand how to feed the world with new or existing technology on their own farms, these developments will sit dormant on shelves or be buried in computers. Social media gives new opportunities to farmers and other professionals to mobilize that knowledge quickly and effectively about research, approaches and techniques that can enhance production.
Good reasons exist to invest in the agri-food sector. A new state of the union report from TD Canada Trust says food processing was the only manufacturing sector to grow in Ontario in the recession. This is due in part to that fact Canada is rich in agricultural resources, says the bank. As well, we’re fortunate that our province and country is stacked with smart farmers – University of Guelph graduates, among them –
who know how to work export markets on one hand, and local food markets on the other. They know people all want the same thing – abroad, they want Canadian food because it’s safe, wholesome and nutritious. Locally, they also like these features, plus its home-grown appeal. The Ontario government has long been a huge supporter of the agri-food sector. It understands, as the global commission urged, the need to meld
policy and production, to create a flexible working environment for farmers and give them researchdriven tools to be the best they can be. For its part, Ottawa issued an overview of Canada’s agri-food sector earlier this week, noting how it encompasses several industries including the farm input and service supplier industries, primary agriculture, food and beverage processing, food distribution, retail,
wholesale and food service industries. The sector continues to play an important role in federal and provincial economies, says Ottawa, directly providing one in eight jobs, employing two million people and accounting for more than eight per cent of total GDP. This is a vital, growing sector in which to invest and work. Jobs are plentiful and new ideas are needed. Got kids? Suggest they try agri-food.
MASSAGE THERAPY: With choice of location, owners seek to be part of the Breslau community FROM | 23
“I would go in to see the therapist, unable to bend over and touch my toes, and when I would come out I could touch my toes. I thought that this was satisfaction and being able to help somebody that quickly, it just drew me in,” she explained. Both therapists tout the benefits of massage, saying it boosts the circulation and the immune system. They emphasize many relaxation techniques to their clients, most of whom work
at desks and develop bad posture. “We alleviate the effects of stress and train them on developing a better posture at work or home,” said Rahn. “The world piles on the stress and when you come here we take it all away.” Only open for a month the business already has quite a diverse clientele, and the two women have received some very positive feedback from the community. “It has been great, everyone who comes here has
been really optimistic and they enjoy the fact that we are in the community and are able to just walk on over,” said Koudijs. Both therapists are also working in other areas of the region they are currently only seeing clients by appointment only with online booking available at www.achievebalance.ca. The therapists can also be reached at (519) 213-0185
Achieve Balance opened on Mar. 3 and has had a lot of positive feed back from the community. [COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER]
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
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AUCTIONS
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SUMMER STUDENT POSITIONS EGS Electrical Group Canada Ltd., a leading manufacturer of industrial electrical equipment is seeking two summer students. Prospective applicants must be registered in a post secondary program. ASSEMBLY Must have the ability to use the following equipment: air gun, air screw driver, silicone machine, various hand tools, electric drill, high pot tester, packing machine, other testing devices, hand truck. Physical requirements: standing, walking, lifting up to 30 pounds, proficient hand dexterity skills. WAREHOUSE Duties include: preparation of various products for shipping, miscellaneous warehouse duties, receiving in-coming supplies or customer returns, completion of documentation. Physical requirements: standing, walking, climbing stairs & ladders, lifting up to 30 pounds. Please forward your resume in confidence to: EGS Electrical Group Canada Ltd. 99 Union Street Elmira, Ontario, N3B 3L7 Attn: Human Resources Email: mary.houle@emerson.com We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No telephone calls please.
HELP WANTED
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CONSTRUCTION LTD. Concrete contractor doing mainly agricultural projects in Wellington County
REQUIRES FULL TIME WORKERS Experienced in setting forms, flat work or concrete finishing an asset. Wage based on experience. Paid benefit package and overtime ALMA Call (519) 846-5312 or FAX (519) 846-9004
Looking to hire an experienced heavy truck mechanic, concrete pump operators, a dispatcher, and salesperson. Experienced operators preferred but will train qualified applicant. Must have DZ license. Competitive wages & benefits. Please fax your resume to 519-648-3528 WORK WANTED DRYWALLER, TAPER, 30 years experience, sprayed ceilings California. Call 519669-5866. EXPERIENCED MENNONITE CLEANING lady. In Elmira area only. Call Darlene at 519669-2285, evenings.
HEALTH CARE PAIN IN THE Neck, arms and shoulders? Backaches? Pain going down legs? Trouble sleeping? Winter blues? Call today: 519-577-3251. Grant’s Hands On Therapy. Elmira office or house calls.
FOR SALE LG REFRIGERATOR STAINLESS Steel, 17 months old, French door with ice maker and water, bottom freezer $1499 (new $2100 + tx). Dana Douglas WALKER, basket, seat, wheels, adjustable height, folds for travel $149. Call 519-669-8694. MATTRESS AND BOX Spring, new, never used, still in sealed bag. Sacrifice $195. Delivery available. Temperpedic Memory Foam Mattress, new, never used, in sealed bag. Like sleeping on a cloud. No pressure points. Bankruptcy sale $595, box spring $200 extra. Delivery available. 519-635-8737.
#1 IN THE REGION HOW TO REACH US
MOVING SALE - 2 bedroom sets, blue sofa, La-Z-Boy sofa and loveseat, 60 gallon aquarium, stand and fish, corner desk and hutch, Roxton dining table with six chairs, outside tools. Call 519669-1875 to see. PERENNIAL SALE STARTING Friday March 30 and continuing through April and May. Open Monday to Saturday. 48 Duke St., Elmira.
AUCTIONS SAT. MARCH 31 - Property auction of a 2 possible 3 bedroom home (condo) located in a retirement village (cottages of Livingstone Circle) in a great area of Kitchener to be held at 5-50 Midland Drive in Kitchener for Theresa Swartzenburg. Jantzi Auctions Ltd. 519-656-3555 www.Jantziauctions.com WED. APRIL 4 at 10:00 AM - Clearing auction sale of household effects; furniture; antiques; tools; and miscellaneous items to be held at the St. Jacob’s Community Centre in St. Jacob’s for a Waterloo estate with additions. Jantzi Auctions Ltd. 519-656-3555 www.Jantziauctions.com SAT. APRIL 7 at 10:00 AM Clearing auction sale of a one and a half acre hobby farm or country property including a 4 bedroom brick house with barn; riding lawnmower; lawn and garden; household effects; antiques; tools; and miscellaneous items to be held at 4631 Perth Line 55 in Milverton for Henry and Mary Kuepfer. Jantzi Auctions Ltd. 519-656-3555 www.Jantziauctions.com
PERIOD. RENTALS
SAT. APRIL 14 at 10:00 AM - Property auction of a one acre country property including a one and a half story 4 bedroom house with finished in law suite. Situated on a gorgeous property with a pond; mature trees; garden shed; etc. To be held at 3766 Lobsinger Line on the western edge of St. Clements for Reinhard and Patricia Wege.
ELMIRA 2 - 1 bedroom apartments available. Units & building clean, modern and managed. No pets, non smoker please. $560 or $650 + utilities. Call 519-669-2212.
SAT. APRIL 14 at noon Clearing auction sale of household effects; antiques; collectables; Jadite glassware collection; lawn and garden tools; and miscellaneous items to be held at 97 Park Ave west in Elmira (near old race track) for Jackie and Stuart Lawrence. Jantzi Auctions 519-656-3555 www. jantziauctions.com
MATURE COUPLE LOOKING to rent 2 - 3 bedroom home in Elmira area. Non smokers. 519-669-9343.
FARM SERVICES KILN HEAT TREATMENT Service. 519-664-3688. Certified to heat treat to ISPM#15 standards. Willow Brae Pallets.
PETS MEGAMUTTS DOG TRAINING, Spring Classes - group session or private, starting April 3, 6 weeks - $140.00. www.megamutts.com. or 519-669-8167. PAWSITIVE CANINE CONNECTION Spring Classes have started, next Puppy Class April 23 (8 hours of training), Street Safety Class April 18 (24 hours of training). $20 Introductory Class April 14. All training is done outside without the use of treats. Dogs must have a martingale collar and a 6 foot leash. 519500-3594 www.pawsitivecanineconnection.com
RENTALS DRAYTON, PRIVATE, 2 bedroom, separate entrance, shared kitchen only. Available immediately. $600/mth inclusive. Call 519-638-5020 or 519-504-6959. ELMIRA 1 BEDROOM available Apr. 1. Downtown location above store, no pets. $510.00 plus utilities. For all inquiries please call 519-669-5431.
AUCTIONS
CLEARING AUCTION SALE OF 3 TRACTORS & FARM EQUIPMENT FOR DONALD ROSS, 8880 WELLINGTON RD.,TOWN OF MINTO, 1 MI. E. TEVIOTDALE ON HWY. 109, N. 2 MI. ON WELLINGTON RD. TO FARM
HOUSE TO SHARE. Person looking to share clean, quiet, three bedroom house in Wellesley. $500/mth utilities included. 519-327-8530.
MOOREFIELD - ONE bedroom apartment furnished, laundry facilities, parking, electric heat, cable TV, no pets, adult building. References. $695.00 inclusive. First & last. 519-638-3013.
GARAGE SALES ANNUAL SPRING MOM2MOM Event now accepting vendors. Event date Sunday April 29th from 9 - noon at the Elora Community Centre. Call or email Kathleen for more information at 519-8461239 or eloramom2mom@ hotmail.com INDOOR GARAGE SALE Woolwich Memorial Centre - Elmira. Sat. April 14, 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Some vendor space available. 519669-6026.
THURSDAY, APRIL 5 AT 10:30 A.M.
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Hrs. 14.9x28 Rear, 6.0-16 Front, 3PH & Single Remote; 7110 Case I.H. 4WD Tractor, Dsl,Cab, 20.8x38 Rear,16.9x28 Front, 7987 Hrs.,2 Remotes, 12 Front Weights w/Snap On Duals; D.B. 1200 Dsl. Tractor, 7419 Hrs.,16.9x34 Rear, Duals, Not Running. EQUIPMENT: 25’ Case I.H. 4300 Cult. w/ Levelling Harrows; Kneverland BB115 High Clearance Adj. 6 Furrow Plough, As New;Vicon 3PH Fert. Spreader; 7200 J.D. 4 Row Corn Planter; 450 J.D. 21 Run Grain Drill w/Fert, Grass & Press Wheels; Bushog 20’ Wheel Disc; 4 Row McKee Corn Scuffler; 8’ Wheel Disc; Vicon Sprayer, 300 Gal. Tank, 42’ Booms; 3 Section 28’ Drum Roller; 12’ Rubber Tire Roller; 7’ Stone Fork; N.H. 654 Round Baler; Case I.H. 741 Forage Harvester; Pickup Head, 2 Row Corn Pickup Head; 9’ N.H. 492 Haybine; N.H.315 Hayliner Square Baler w/Thrower; (3) 300 Bu. Grain Wagons; Little Giant 36’ Bale Elevator on Wheels; (2) Dion Forage Boxes & Wagons; 400 Bu. R.J. Grain Wagon on Horst 205 Wagon; 20’ Wooden Bale Thrower Rack; Case I.H. 1580 Tandem 2 Beater Manure Spreader,End Gate; Belle City Built Threshing Machine, Galvanized; 3 Furrow Plough; 2&3 Furrow Trail Ploughs. (2) 5,000 Bu. Grain Bins. Plus Misc. See the Web www.grayauct.ca for complete list. TERMS: Cash or Cheque with proper I.D. day of sale. Owners or auctioneers not responsible for accidents day of sale. Any verbal announcements day of sale take precedence over written ads. To View: Call Robin (519)338-5948.
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TROPHIES | CUPS | PLAQUES | MEDALLIONS RIBBONS | NAME TAGS | NAME PLATES DOOR PLATES | CUSTOM ENGRAVING
QUICK LOCAL SERVICE | 245 Labrador Dr., Waterloo
www.UniTwin.com | 519.886.2102
FREE BAG In troductor Offer y
> Superior Salt Products > Fast, Friendly Service > Convenient Delivery Times > Discounts for Seniors
Taking Salt to Peoples’ Basements Since 1988
519-747-2708
We’ll transfer music from LPs, 45s, 78s and cassettes to CDs. We’ll take your favourite albums, clean up clicks, pops and surface noise and enhance the overall sound of the recording.
Various sizes & rates
More Info & pricing vinylp2cd@gmail.com
519-669-0541 Waterloo ELMIRA, ON www.riepersalt.com -Service both residential and commercial driveways and parking lots.
CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call
Boat Covers | Air Conditioner Covers | Small Tarps Storage Covers | BBQ Covers | Awnings & Canopies Replacement Gazebo Tops | Golf Cart Enclosures & Covers •Ratches, Hooks, Straps, Webbing etc. •Canvas, Vinyl, Polyester, Acrylic Fabrics
519-669-4964
519.595.4830 6376 Perth Rd. 121 Poole, ON
100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA
-"Your driveway/parking lot is the first thing guests see -keep it looking its best." -Sealing Asphalt will help protect against fluid & oil spills, preserves it so it will last longer, and improve curb appeal. -
GENERAL SERVICES
BICYCLE SALES & REPAIRS PROFESSIONAL BIKE MECHANIC ON STAFF
Buy your bike from us and get a FREE annual inspection!
ABSOLUTE
DRIVEWAY SEALING FRIENDLY LOCAL SERVICE | CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE SERVICE BOTH RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL DRIVEWAYS AND PARKING LOTS. "YOUR DRIVEWAY/PARKING LOT IS THE FIRST THING GUESTS SEE - KEEP IT LOOKING ITS BEST."
20
$
SEALING ASPHALT WILL HELP PROTECT AGAINST FLUID & OIL SPILLS, PRESERVES IT SO IT WILL LAST LONGER, AND SAVE THE IMPROVE CURB APPEAL.
PARTS EXTRA
22 Church St. W., Elmira
Tel:519-669-5537
STORE HOURS: M-F: 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5
BRAD GERBER
519.656.3245
e: bg-absolutesealer@live.ca
HST
WHE N YOU YOU TEL SAW L US IN THTHE AD E
"OBS
ERVE
R”
HEALTH SERVICES
Reimer Hyperbarics of Canada
WE’RE AT YOUR SERVICE. We specialize in getting the word out. Advertise your businesses services here. Get weekly exposure with fantastic results. Call us at 519.669.5790.
Established 2000
F. David Reimer
UNDER PRESSURE TO HEAL
Safe, effective and proven for 13 + UHMS (Undersea Hyperbaric Medical Society) Approved indications: ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Crush Injury Enhancement in Healing of Wounds Necrotyzing Soft Tissue Infections Intracranial Abscess Clostridal Myosistis and Myonecrosis Crush Injury. Compartment Syndrome Skin Grafts and Flaps
● Air or Gas Embolism ● Thermal Burns ● Acute Traumatc Ischemias ● Exceptional Blood Loss ● Decompression Sickness ● Carbon Monoxide Poisoning ● Delayed Radiation Injury + Many More
www.reimerhbot.com For more information call:
519-669-0220
56 Howard Ave. Unit 2, Elmira, ON, N3B 2E1
DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY. SEE AN IMAGE IN THE OBSERVER THAT YOU LIKE? DON’T WORRY, WE DO PHOTO RE-PRINTS! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR SIZES, PRICING AND ORDER FORMS.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
General Repairs
CLASSIFIED | 27
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES
HEALTH SERVICES
Sew Special
Floor Model Sale On Now! Let Us Help You Get Cozy
BOWEN THERAPY ...is the solution for your PAIN! Benefits may be evident as early as the first session. Treatments are safe for everyone from infants to the elderly.
Call Now!
Kevin Bartley, B.A. Hons., Professional Bowenwork Practitioner 60 Memorial Avenue, Elmira (519) 669-0112
Ltd.
RESIDENTIAL & AGRICULTURAL
Driveways • Sidewalks • Curbs • Barn Renovations Finished Floors • Retaining Walls • Short Walls Decorative/Stamped and coloured concrete www.facebook.com/marwilconcrete
519-638-2699
Every Body is Better with Bowen!
• Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Custom Drapery Custom Blinds
Randy Weber
Free Estimates
ECRA/ESA Licence # 7000605
519.669.1462 Fax: 519.669.9970
In Home Consultations
www.fergusfireplace.com
Tel:
18 Kingfisher Dr., Elmira
Over 20 Years Experience
1871 Sawmill Rd., Conestogo | 519-664-3800 or 877-664-3802 Celebrating Our 180 St. Andrew St. W., Fergus 17th Year At 519-843-4845 or 888-871-4592
HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
ST. JACOBS GLASS SYSTEMS INC. 1600 King St. N., Bldg A17 St. Jacobs, Ontario N0B 2N0
Home Improvements
FREE ESTIMATES
• Store Fronts • Thermopanes • Mirrors • Screen Repair • Replacement Windows • Shower Enclosures • Sash Repair
WINDOWS & DOORS | ROOFING SIDING | SOFFIT & FACIA | DRYWALL ADDITIONS & RENOVATIONS MURRAY MARTIN | 519.669.9308 1722 Floradale Rd., Elmira, ON, N3B 2Z1
TEL:
519-664-1202 / 519-778-6104 FAX: 519 664-2759 • 24 Hour Emergency Service
AGRICULTURAL • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL • High Quality Installation of Steel & Aluminum Eavestrough • Rugged Steel Eavestrough for Today’s Metal Roofing Systems
JEREMY MARTIN
FOR ALL YOUR HOME DECORATING NEEDS.
PH 519-502-4679 | Fax 519-291-6624
xcountryeaves@live.ca
8632 Concession 3, RR#3 Listowel, ON, N4W 3G8
27 ARTHUR ST. S., ELMIRA
519.669.3658
Elmira
IRA HOME COMFORT M L E (519) 669-4600 APPLIANCES – FURNACES – FIREPLACES AIR CONDITIONERS – WATER HEATERS SPRING SPECIAL ON AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP $99, INSTALLED FROM $1999 FURNACES INSTALLED FROM $2499 FRIDGES $499, STOVES $399, WASHERS $399, DRYERS $369, FREEZERS $199 Come visit our show room FREE QUOTES 1 Union Street, Elmira
BOOK YOUR
SPRING GRADING
BEFORE APRIL 15 AND RECEIVE A
10% DISCOUNT
ehc@hotmail.ca (519)-669-4600
OUTDOOR SERVICES 20 years experience
SINCE 1961
Specializing in Paint & Wall coverings
Lois Weber 519-669-3985
FARMING SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES
READ’S DECORATING
Custom Sewing for Your Home
Wood, Pellet or Gas? Insert or Free Standing? Traditional or Contemporary Styling? Practical, Cost Effective, Top Performer?
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SERVICES
YOUR SOURCE FOR YEAR-ROUND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Lawn Mowing Packages • Lawn Maintenance & Landscaping • Top Dressing/Overseeding • Mulch Delivery & Installation • Commercial & Residential Full Flower Bed Maintenance
free estimates interior/exterior painting, wallpapering & Plaster|Drywall repairs
519-669-2251 36 Hampton St., Elmira
Call Jeff Basler, Owner/Operator, today 519.669.9081 mobile: 519.505.0985 fax: 519.669.9819 | ever-green@sympatico.ca
OFFERING A QUICK AND EASY WAY TO RECLAIM UNUSED LAND
Brush Mowing/Long Grass | Capable of mowing up to 3 inch diameter brush Tracked Skid Steer equipped with Brush Mower
- Trail Maintenance and Development - Wooded Lot Thinning - Pasture Reclaimation All other - Orchard Maintenance tracked skid - Industrial Lots steer services are available - Real Estate Lots
OUTDOOR SERVICES
Outdoor
Services
> Commercial & Residential > Fully Insured > WSIB Clearance > Senior Discount
Lawn Maintenance Programs | Spring Clean-up Flower Bed Maintenance Programs Leaf Clean-up and Removal | Soil & Mulch Delivery & Installation | Snow Clearing & Removal | Ice Control KEVIN DETWEILER
P: 519-669-1188 | F: 519-669-9369
kdetweiler@rogers.com
C.J.
BRUBACHER LTD. 19 First St. E., Elmira
519-669-3362
www.groprolawncare.com
OWNER-OPERATOR
PLUMBING SERVICES
PLUMBING SERVICES
AMOS
Steve Co.
Plumbing and Maintenance Inc.
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
For all your Plumbing Needs. 24 HOUR SERVICE Steve Jacobi
ELMIRA
519-669-3652
ROOFING SERVICES
R O O F I N G
INC
PLUMBING & HEATING SPECIALISTS!
FREE ESTIMATES 519-669-1278
27 Brookemead, St, Elmira
YOUR
•Tree Trimming & Removal • Aerial Bucket Trucks • Stump Grinding • Arborist Evaluations • Fully Insured & Certified • Certified to Work Near Power Lines
One stop shop for all your needs. PLUMBING, FURNACE REPAIRS, SERVICE & INSTALLATION, GAS FITTING 66 Rankin St. Unit 4 | Waterloo
519-885-2828
• Specializing in residential re-roofs • Repairs • Churches A Family owned and operated business serving KW and surrounding area for over 35 years.
BOOK NOW FOR SPRING INSTALLATION. CALL JAYME FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE.
519.501.2405 In Business since 1971 • Fully Insured
WE’RE AT YOUR SERVICE. We specialize in getting the word out. Advertise your businesses services here. Get weekly exposure with fantastic results. Call us at 519.669.5790.
28 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
Visit us at our NEW LOCATION! 3 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5426
Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated
OPEN HOUSE SUN. 2-4 P.M. | 3 Raising Mill Gate, Elmira
$329,000
GREEN SPACE
Elmira - no backyard neighbours. This beautiful back split home with sunroom overlooking natural green space. Move in condition! Carpet free main floor with new hardwood and ceramic. Kitchen updates include granite countertops and new backsplash. Concrete driveway and over sized garage (1.5). Unspoiled 4th level perfect for games/playroom waiting for your finishing touches. MLS Call Paul direct.
Paul Martin
NEW LISTING
$539,000 ONE OF A KIND!! Drayton - Luxurious, custom built home loc’d in quiet area. 3100sqft + huge fin’d bsmnt.
Spacious kit designed w/cooking & entertaining in mind! Unique & exceptional home, spacious but still makes you feel right at home. Beautiful sun rm w/hot tub overlooking fabulous private yrd w/gazebo, pond & waterfall, beautifully gardens. Stamped concrete drive & lg patio w/retractable awning. MLS Call Alli or Paul direct.
FINISHED BASEMENT!
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
CALL CALL DIRECT DIRECT
519-503-9533 www.homeswithpaul.ca $500.00 donation will be made with every home bought or sold by Paul in Woolwich.
Elmira - Don't miss this brand new, open concept semi. All the conveniences on 1 floor, main flr laundry, master w/ensuite, 2nd bedroom, eat in kit & sizeable living room w/garden dr. Fin'd basement w/3rd bedroom, 3pc bath & bright rec room. The small yard will be easy to care for! Large garage is 17.5ft x 20ft, perfect for storage & still have room for a vehicle. Located close to downtown, walking distance to library, restaurants & banks. MLS Call Paul direct.
RAISED BUNGALOW
$314,000
SALES REPRESENTATIVE
$369,000
CALL CALL DIRECT DIRECT
DESIRABLE QUIET CRESCENT LOCATION!!
www.elmiraandareahomes.com
A donation of $300.00 will be made with any home bought or sold through Alli or Bill.
Elmira - Outstanding value for this 1800sqft custom built 1 owner raised bungalow. Fin’d basement incl: Rec rm w/wd burning fp, 3pc bath, bdrm, den/office or 5th bdrm possibility & lr workshop. Open living rm w/hardwd flr. Convenient main flr laundry. Separate dining rm w/walk out to yard. Fabulous big backyard complete w/interlock patio, hot tub & cute shed great for your family or entertaining! MLS Call Paul direct.
$299,900 NEW LISTING
D L O S
Alli Bauman 519-577-6248
Elmira - Perfect for empty nesters! Don’t miss out on this semi detached raised bungalow. Complete with main floor laundry, 4 piece ensuite and open concept eat-in kitchen and living room. All the conveniences on one floor. The small yard will be easy to care for! The large garage is 17.5ft x 20ft, perfect for storage and still have room for a vehicle. Located close to downtown, walking distance to library, restaurants and banks. MLS Call Paul direct.
$229,900 WHAT A DEAL!
Elmira - Don’t miss this convenient home full of personality. Close to downtown and bus route. Many updates including: mudroom at side entrance, kitchen updates, unique ceramic tile throughout and finished basement. Single garage equipped with separate workshop room. Back slider to fenced yard with large deck and shed. MLS Call Paul direct.
$319,000 Port Elgin - is the location of this lake-view property. Relax on the front deck and enjoy the sunsets, Chantry Island and the peacefulness of Lake Huron. This year round home/cottage is situated on a 70 foot by 230.79 foot lot with pelnty of potential. The location is a short distance to Port Elgin’s sand beach or Southampton and if you like to walk, run or cycle there is a paved trail across nearby. MLS Call Bill direct.
RM
BY FA
HOB
Bill Norris SALES REPRESENTATIVE
CALL CALL DIRECT DIRECT
519-588-1348
www.elmiraandareahomes.com
$675,000 $749,900
BUNGALOW W/20,000 SQ. FT. 2 STOREY BARN
Woolwich - Loc’d on 20 acres. Spacious 2400 sqft bungalow equip’d w/MF lndry, sep dr, huge fin’d bsmnt & walk up to garage. Open kit & FM w/wood fp. Master w/huge walk in closet & attractive slider to 3 tiered composite deck w/hot tub. 25x36 ft insulated, heated shop, 100amp w/bathrm & phone. 20,000 sqft 2 storey barn equipped for chickens or turkeys, currently empty. 17 acres of bush w/trail, mostly hardwood & poplar. MLS Call Paul direct.
CUSTOM BUILT BUNGALOW
Elmira - 79.5ft x 274ft Lot. Call and design this home to fit your needs and wants. Spacious bungalow on large treed lot. Stairway from garage to basement. Custom designed kitchen. Huron Homes will entertain other plans for houses on this lot. Call 519-503-9533 to have a look at the blueprints. MLS Call Paul direct.
WHETHER YOU’RE STARTING OUT OR EMPTYING THE NEST. START YOUR PROPERTY SEARCH HERE.
FOR RENT. WITH REAL INVESTMENT YOU WILL SEE A REAL RETURN. MAKE THIS SPACE YOUR NEW HOME. ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
CLASSIFIED | 29
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
Sunlight Homes
When you buy or sell your home with us, part of our commission supports women’s shelters & violence prevention programs.
ELMIRA REAL ESTATE SERVICES
Drayton Heights
Independently Owned & Operated, Brokerage 90 Earl Martin Dr., Unit 1, Elmira N3B 3L4
MODEL HOME OPEN EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY 1-5PM
519-669-3192
BONNIE BRUBACHER Broker of Record
Elmira@royallepage.ca | www.royallepage.ca/elmira
OPEN HOUSE SUN. 1-3 pm 101 PORCHLIGHT DRIVE, ELMIRA
The Edge Semi-detached homes from
LAURIE LANGDON Sales Representative
MONIQUE ROES Sales Representative
COMMERCIAL/INVESTMENT
IMPRESSIVE ELMIRA 2 STOREY!
COUNTRY LIVING
$219,900 ELMIRA. Ample opportunities here!!! Zoned C2, onsite parking, main floor set up for a business, separate entrance to the updated one bedroom apartment on the upper level, corner lot with great exposure and conveniently located one street over from the main street. MLS
$299,900. Unbelievable‌ Single detached home completely finished and ready for occupancy! Backs onto a small green space with creek and walking path. This solid home offers a 1.5 car garage, double driveway, open concept main floor, oak kitchen, living room w/gas fireplace, walkout to deck and fenced yard, new upper floor carpeting and ceramic, finished basement 2011. MLS
$299,000 ROTHSAY NEW PRICE. An
FLORADALE – 20 ACRES
3.74 ACRES - POOL
60 ROLLING ACRES
$999,000. Shop 60 x 32. Lovely bungalow with triple garage and fully finished walkout basement. 12 acres mature bush and trails, approx. 8 acres workable. Unsurpassed setting awaits you! MLS
$775,000 ELMIRA. Ideal location
$1,900,000 BAMBERG.. Private, peaceful and perfect. Landscaped grounds including picturesque pond surround the 4 bedroom ranch bungalow with triple garage. Additional 4000 sq ft shop with heated lower area. Agriculture cropped land. MLS
$199,990
Choose from one of our plans or let us custom build your home fully detached. Homes starting
$379,900. Pride in ownership is obvious,
beautiful home built in 2005, lovely kitchen with island, walkout to interlock patio, pergola, shed and fenced yard. Nicely decorated throughout, spacious 2nd floor great room with gas fireplace, 2nd floor laundry, master bedroom offers a 5 piece ensuite, central air, central vac ++++ MLS
from
$254,790 Many models to choose from
FIRST TIME OFFERED OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1 -3 pm 22 Knapp Road Elmira
Learn More About Sunlight Heritage Homes and Our fine communities by Visiting us Today!
Alyssa Henry
SHANNA ROZEMA Broker.
awesome opportunity to live in the country! This 1,775 square foot home built on a .6 acre lot features a very large kitchen, charming open dining and eating area, walk-out basement, wrap around deck and an almost new furnace. Basement includes 2 finished bedrooms, 4 piece bath and a partially finished rec room and second kitchen. MLS
www.sunlighthomes.ca
519.787.0203
Broker Re/Max Real Estate Centre Inc.
Have a question? Email us at: info@sunlighthomes.ca $362,000. Paradigm (Elmira) Homes New
Model now available. 1780sq ft 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath. New design with welcoming entrance, spacious kitchen with built-in custom island and generous dinette. Additional features included plus 4 LG Appliances. EXCL.
Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated
3 Arthur St. S. Elmira • www.remaxsolidgold.biz OFFICE: 519-669-5426
OPEN HOUSE: Sunday April 1st from 2-4pm Private Sale - 22 Falcon Dr. ELMIRA
DIRECT: 519-572-2669
BERT MARTIN, BROKER
on the edge of town, 4+ bedroom family home with many updates. 38 x 24 heated shop, ample parking/storage. Fantastic yard for many outside activities. MLS
EMAIL: bert@remaxsolidgold.biz
Call Bert For Your FREE Market Evaluation
BUNGALOW!
Great location central to schools, parks, Rec Centre and 10 minute walk to down town. Three bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, great room with addition, finished basement, triple wide paved drive, great for camper or motor home. MLS $329,900. Call Bert to View.
NEW PRICE $238,000 - Large 4 Level semi back split Newly renovated 3 Bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, large fenced yard, no back yard neighbors, utility shed, steel roof, central air, hardwood ,ceramic and linoleum flooring. Great family home! More information 519-210-0405.
COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE
Two adjoining offices in Multi-Tenant Plaza. Also 920 s/f unit consisting of two offices, reception area, kitchenette and bathroom. Located in busy plaza 10 minutes from Waterloo. MLS. Call Bert to view.
LOOK HERE EVERY SATURDAY FOR YOUR OPEN HOUSE LISTINGS
Your referrals are appreciated!
CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES.
OBSERVER PUZZLE SOLUTIONS CROSSWORD PUZZLER 2 + 0 6
% 5 $ :
6 2 6 $ : 3 ( ( 2 7 8 3 7 ( ' $ 2 6 7 2
, & 2 6 6 6 1 ( 3 7 , 5 ( ( 0 7 ( 1 6 ( 1 7 ( 5 , 7 2 < $ , 6 / 2 ( ' 2
= $ 5 2 = ( 2 8 1 5 ( ( : 8 6 , % $ 7 5 * 6 $ ( 7
0 , 6 7 2 ( 6 / / ( $ 3 ( + 5
2 & & 8 3 <
' 2 8 & (
( 1 7 + 5 $ 6 / , 6 * * 2 1 *
6 7 ( 7 / ( 0 * ( $ 7 / ( $ 5 6
THE CHALLENGE
THE BIG EASY / < ( 9 $ 1 ( 6 & (
6 ( 3 7 6 + (
COME ON! WE KNOW YOU HAVE GREAT FAMILY PHOTOS, WHY NOT SHOW THEM OFF IN THE OBSERVER.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
30 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
PLAYING HOST, ELMIRA HAS NO PROBLEM SCOOPING UP MEDALS FROM THE VISITORS The Waterloo Synchro Club brought home 11 gold medals and 27 podium finishes at the Western Ontario Regional Championships held in Elmira March 24-25. [SUBMITTED]
Among the gold medal finishers were the 15U Purple Team (top), and the Combo Team (above, left and middle), while Hannah Atkins (right) took home the silver in the 16O Solo routine.
[SUBMITTED]
MUNICIPAL | REGIONAL PUBLIC NOTICES
CONESTOGO NEEDS AN AFTERNOON CROSSING GUARD IN SEPTEMBER
PROPERTY STANDARDS BY-LAW
WOOLWICH MEMORIAL CENTRE CLOSURE NOTICES
A Crossing Guard is needed in Conestogo to cover the afternoon duty time of 3:20 p.m. to 3:50 p.m. starting September 4, 2012. The ideal candidate is excellent with youth, is responsible, dependable, and lives near or has transportation to the school crossing. The rate of pay is $10.24 per 30-minute shift. All training and equipment is provided but mileage is not compensated. Please submit a resume and cover letter as soon as possible by email or in person to:
The Council of the Township of Woolwich passed a new Property Standards By-law 242012 at the council meeting held on Tuesday, March 27, 2012.
The pool and fitness centre only will be closed on Saturday, March 31, 2012 for the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival. The building will remain open.
To view the By-law please visit http://www. woolwich.ca/en/council/council_bylaws.asp.
The Woolwich Memorial Centre will be closed on Friday, April 6, 2012 for Good Friday.
A. Levean, Human Resources Township of Woolwich P.O. Box 158, 24 Church Street West Elmira, ON N3B 2Z6 Fax (519) 669-9348 / Inquiries: (519) 669-6015 E-mail alevean@woolwich.ca Website: www.woolwich.ca
FRONTYARD PARKING BY-LAW The Council of the Township of Woolwich will be considering a Front Yard Parking By-law at the Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. the meeting is scheduled to take place in the Council Chambers at the Administration Office at 24 Church Street W., Elmira, 2nd floor. For more information please contact Julie Forth at 519-669-6009.
CLASSIFIED | 31
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
FAMILY ALBUM BIRTH NOTICE
BIRTHDAY
BIRTHDAY
Nick & Marlene Kuepfer
Happy 1st Birthday
Joe’s turning 50
Avery Elle
Let’s not let him forget! CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES.
Are pleased to announce the healthy and safe arrival of Norah Tenley Kuepfer. Norah arrived at 7:35 p.m. on Feb. 11, 2012 weighing 6lbs 12 oz and 19 inches long. Proud 1st time grandparents Ross & Bev Kuepfer of Linwood and Lambert & Patricia Koster of Minto Twp. Thank you to Dr. Raby and the staff at Grand River Hospital and Gabby & Katie of St. Jacobs Midwives. Thank-you for your love and support, we are truly blessed
COME ON! WE KNOW YOU HAVE GREAT FAMILY PHOTOS, WHY NOT SHOW THEM OFF IN THE OBSERVER.
Love: Mommy, Daddy & Cohen
BIRTHDAY
IN MEMORIAM
Holy double-digits Batman!
Five years since the passing of Sharon D’Hondt February 22, 1972 - March 29, 2007 We all miss and love you very much. You will continue to live in the hearts of many family and friends.
Happy Birthday to the Best ten year old kid... Ever! (Sorry to all other ten year old kids - better luck next year.)
Her memories will always be cherished.
Love Mom, Dad, Finn & Billy
Love the D’Hondt family
Come join the party and celebrate! March 31, 2012 @ Elmira Legion Upstairs 8 p.m. - 1 a.m.
OBITUARY
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
OBITS ALBRECHT, SAMUEL | Passed away peacefully surrounded by
CRISPIN, Annie Eleanor Peacefully after a brief illness on Thurs., March 22, 2012 at Palmerston & District Hospital, at the age of 94. Survived by daughter, Marilyn (Terry) Coupal of Elmira, son, John (Pat) Crispin on Minto Township, daughter, Jean (Nick) Kuipers of Kingsville, daughter, Linda Crispin of Kitchener & daughther-in-law, Jackie Crispin of Minto Township. Predeceased by husband, Fred Crispin & son, Harvey Crispin.
his family on Saturday, March 24, 2012 at Knollcrest Lodge, Milverton. Sam resided in Millbank and was born 80 years ago in Wellesley Township. FREY, LAVERNE | 1940 - 2012 aka “Big Daddy” Passed away
peacefully at Campbell River Hospital, B.C., Sunday, March 4, 2012 at the age of 71 years. Local relatives are his daughter Pamela Martin and her husband Leon of Elmira. PICCHIOTTI, BARBARA ANNE (NEE STUART) | 1927 - 2012 At
Columbia Forest Long Term Care Centre, Waterloo on Tuesday, March 20, 2012 at the age of 84. Local relatives are her son John Courtney (Janice) of St. Jacobs.
REFRESH YOUR LOGO
SPRING
MAKEOVER
AND RECEIVE ONE SET OF 1000 FULL COLOUR 2-SIDED GLOSSY BUSINESS CARDS
FREE!
LOGO INCLUDES COLOUR, GRAYSCALE & BLACK AND WHITE. DONE AS VECTOR ARTWORK.
$299 www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
(519) 669-5790
($150 VALUE)
DEAL ENDS APRIL 30TH
32 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
LIVING HERE CHEF’S TABLE/ KIRSTIE HERBSTREIT & JODI O’MALLEY
HEALTHY LIVING / IN THE GARDEN
The communal gardener
Triple Chocolate Bread Pudding is just the treat for Easter
Wellesley man looking for support in bid to set up a community garden in the village COLIN DEWAR Gardening provides benefits that go well beyond the fresh food that can be produced. Growing and tending a garden has been known to lower blood pressure and reduce stress while improving both the physical and mental health of gardeners. It is also a creative outlet, as it involves planning and designing. It’s become a popular pastime, as recent statistics from the Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute show that 48 per cent of adults enjoy being physically active through gardening. For those who’d like to enjoy the benefits but without access to a plot of land, Keith Milne of Wellesley is looking to build a community garden in the village. He hopes it will help with neighbourhood improvement and build a sense of community and connection to the environment. “A natural location for such a garden would be the downtown core, where as many people as possible would have access to it. A community garden in Wellesley would offer a number of benefits including fresh vegetables and a connection with neighbours,” said Milne. The key to any neighbourhood garden succeeding is support from the community. Community gardens can come in many different shapes and sizes. They don’t even have to be communal – where everyone
RECIPE NOTES
Keith Milne of Wellesley is looking to build a community garden in the village. He is currently looking for a piece of land and any donations the community may have to help him complete the project. [COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER] shares the work and the harvest – as gardeners can have their own individual plot within the garden and can also join with others to grow some crops communally. Milne is a regional peer health worker who tries
to help people in the rural areas of the region get involved in the community by getting them out of their homes and away from isolation by developing projects such as community gardens. He tried to build the gar-
den last year but was unable to find a piece of land that everyone could use. “I just want people to know that I am trying to set up a community garden for Wellesley and we are still looking for a place to have it,” said Milne. “As of right
now I have not been able to find a sizable area and the trouble I am having is that the people who are interested in operating the garden do not have good transportation, so I need it to be centrally located. I
For a special treat on Easter this year, splurge on some good-quality chocolate and make the following dessert. Bread Pudding is one of those true, great ‘comfort food’ desserts. Like all comfort food, it combines a little of what you already have on hand (stale bread that needs to be used up) with some fresh new ingredients to turn it into something special. In this case it’s the chocolate, and the warm chocolate sauce too. For bread choices, it’s a good idea to stick to something with a bit of structure to it – so avoid super soft French loaves. A sourdough works well, a sturdy baguette, or even stale hotcross buns. The bread has a lot of flavour to soak up. For chocolate we tend to use Lindt brand. You can find this in the form of large bars at the grocery store, at the Lindt outlet store in Cambridge and at Vincenzo’s. You could even sacrifice a Lindt chocolate bunny pre-Easter to make this dessert
GARDEN | 35
Auto Care Tip of the Week Need a new engine air filter? Installing aftermarket high performance filters is not always the most ideal solution. Although those filters will allow higher airflow rates (subsequently giving you better efficiency and power) they may also have less filtering capability, allowing more dust and dirt to enter your engine. - AL ZETTLER
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RECIPE | 35
LIVING HERE | 33
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012 “A GOOD JOB DONE EVERY TIME”
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MARCH 30
APRIL 3
WEEKEND GETAWAY FOR MARRIED Couples, Makes a good marriage better, hope for marriages in stress. Fri. Mar. 30 to Sun. Apr. 1 at Jericho House, Wainfleet, near Port Colburne: www.marriageencounterc. com or phone 519-669-8667. Marriage Encounter is endorsed by the Mennonite and Brethren Churches.
MOVIE AFTERNOON FOR ADULTS – 1-2:30 p.m. at Elmira Branch Library. Movie showing will be Love Actually. Tickets are $1 each and every person attending must have a ticket. Admission includes light refreshments. The event will take place at the library, 65 Arthur St. S., Elmira. For more information call the Elmira Branch Library at 519-669-5477.
HAM & SCALLOP POTATO Dinner with baked beans. $7. Royal Canadian Legion, 11 First St., Elmira; 6 p.m.
PYJAMA STORYTIME – 6:45-7:30 p.m. at St. Clements Branch Library. Tuesday evenings from April 3 to May 22. Recommended for parents/caregivers and children 3-7 years old (older and younger siblings welcome). Presented by Stephanie Lee, a Library Technician student. Drop in – it’s free! For more information call the St. Clements Branch Library 519699-4341.
MARCH 31 VISIT THE WTHHS HISTORICAL Room at the Old School, 1137 Henry St., Wellesley between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. and enjoy displays of interesting historical facts about Wellesley Township. In 2012, we will be open every last Saturday of each month, except December. Free admission.
APRIL 4 STORYTIME FOR CHILDREN AGES 3 to 5 – at Bloomingdale Branch of the Region of Waterloo Library. A storytime program for children 3 to 5 years old. Join us for stories and other fun activities on Wednesdays 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. from Apr. 4 to May 23 OR Thursdays 1:30 to 2:15 p.m. from Apr. 5 to May 24. Call or visit the library for more information at 519745-3151 or email bloomlib@regionofwaterloo.ca.
APRIL 1 MATERIAL HANDLING & PROCESSING SYSTEMS
KIN KORNER
THE SCHNEIDER MALE CHORUS hosted by Elmira Mennonite Church,(58 Church St. W., Elmira), 7 p.m. Free will offering (proceeds will support the Elmira Mennonite Church Youth Mission Trip to Ukraine in August 2012). Wheelchair accessible. For more information call 519-669-5123.
STORYTIME FOR CHILDREN AGES 3 to 5 – at St. Clements Branch of the Region of Waterloo Library. A storytime program for children 3 to 5 years old. Join us for stories and fun activities on Wednesdays 1:45-2:30 p.m. from Apr. 4 to May 23 or Thursdays 9:15-10 a.m. from Apr. 5 to May 24. Call or visit the library for more information at 519-699-4341 or email stclemlib@regionofwaterloo.ca.
APRIL 2 COMPUTER LESSONS AT WOOLWICH Seniors Centre. Daytime, Mondays 9-11 a.m. starting April 2 (4 weeks). Evenings – Thurs. 7-9 p.m. (4 weeks) starts April 12. Members $20; non members $30. For more information call 519-669-5044.
TODDLER TALES IS FOR children 24 to 36 months and is held on Wednesdays 9:30-10:15 a.m. from Apr. 4 to May 23 at Wellesley Branch of the Region of Waterloo Library; 519-656-2001.
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STORYTIME IS FOR CHILDREN ages 3 to 5 years old and is held Wednesdays 10:45-11:30 a.m. from Apr. 4 to May 23 OR Thursdays 2 to 2:45 p.m. from Apr. 5 to May 24. at Wellesley Branch of the Region of Waterloo Library; 519-656-2001.
APRIL 5 WEEKLY BINGO 7 P.M. at Elmira Lions Hall, 40 South St., Elmira. All proceeds go to support the many projects of the Lions Club of Elmira. For more information call 519-500-1434. STORYTIME FOR CHILDREN AGES 3 to 5 – at Linwood Branch of the Region of Waterloo Library. A storytime program for children 3 to 5 years old. Join us for stories and fun activities on Thursday afternoons, Apr. 5 to May 24 from 2-2:45 p.m. Call or visit the library for more information at 519-698-2700 or email linwdlib@regionofwaterloo.ca.
21 INDUSTRIAL DR. ELMIRA
519-669-2884
APRIL 7 ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT, hosted by the Optimist Club of St. Jacobs. Riverside Meadows Park on Water St. in St. Jacobs. Hunt starts at 10 a.m. sharp. This is fun event for young children and there is no charge for participation. Also included: balloons, prizes and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
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SUBMIT AN EVENT The Events Calendar is reserved for Non-profit local community events that are offered free to the pub-
lic. Placement is not guaranteed. Registrations, corporate events, open houses and the like do not qualify in this section. 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
NANCY KOEBEL
Bus: 519.744.5433 Home: 519.747.4388
Individual life insurance, mortgage insurance, business insurance, employee benefits programs, critical illness insurance, disability coverage,
RRSPs, RESPs, RRIFs, LIFs and Annuities. Suite 102, 40 Weber St. E., Kitchener
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VERMONT Castings
11 HENRY ST. - UNIT 9, ST. JACOBS
33 Industrial Dr., Elmira 519.669.1591
SHARON GINGRICH 519.291.6763
519.664.2008
psgingrich@hotmail.ca
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
PLACES OF FAITH | A DIRECTORY OF LOCAL HOUSES OF WORSHIP
NURSERY PROVIDED
SUNDAY SCHOOL
HEARING ASSISTED
S. T
Zion Mennonite Fellowship - The Junction -
The Gospel in the OT
No God, No Hope; Know God, Know Hope!
Worship Service - 10:30am
The Lamb of God
C C Celebrate Eucharist with us Mass times are: Sat. 5pm, Sun. 9am and 11:15am
19 Flamingo Dr., Elmira • 519-669-3387
Trinity United Church, Elmira “Our mission is to love, learn & live by Christ’s teachings”
Sunday am Sunday Worship: Worship: 10:30 10:30 am Sunday School during during Worship Worship Sunday School Minister: Rev.Dave DaveJagger Jagger Minister: Rev.
rm A Wlcaome We all! to
21 Arthur St. N., Elmira • 519-669-5560 www.wondercafe.ca
Finding The Way Together 47 Arthur St., S. Elmira • 519-669-3153 www.thejunctionelmira.com
Sunday School at 9:30am
Service at 10:30am REACH WITH LOVE. TEACH THE TRUTH. SEND IN POWER. 290 Arthur St. South, Elmira • 519-669-3973 www.ElmiraAssembly.com (Across from Tim Horton’s)
SUNDAY APRIL 1ST Preventing Spiritual Heart Disease
Jeff Martin Discovering God Together
4522 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein • 519-669-2319 www.wbconline.ca
St. Paul’s Lutheran Church
10:30am Worship Service 9:15am Sunday School
Pastor: Richard A. Frey www.stpaulselmira.ca
27 Mill St., Elmira • 519-669-2593
THERE ARE SOME QUESTIONS THAT CAN’T BE ANSWERED
Sunday, April 1st, 2012
BY GOOGLE.
9:15 & 11:00 AM Series: Thinking Through Today’s Issues
#7 - “ Evil & Suffering” SUNDAYS @ 10:30AM Services at John Mahood Public School 5 First St., Elmira • 519-669-1459 www.elmiracommunity.org
200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1296 www.woodsidechurch.ca
Keep faith alive, advertise here.
34 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
STRANGE BUT TRUE / BILL & RICH SONES PH.D.
Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we diet ... or maybe not. WEIRD WEIRD NOTES NOTES
Q. Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we diet. Or maybe not. What are a few more unorthodox ways to stay slim, bearing in mind that the weight of evidence on these may still be rather slim? A. While extreme stress tends to bring down weight, the everyday kind can prompt cravings for high-calorie foods in some people, says the United Kingdom’s Emma Young in “New Scientist� magazine, citing Rajita Sinha of the SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. SOLUTION: on page 29
Yale Stress Center. Consider de-stressing via meditative relaxation techniques and health awareness. According to Fiona Johnson of University College London, as homes have gotten warmer in recent decades, people living in the warmest of them burn less energy and are more likely to become obese (“The International Journal of Obesity�). So for at least some small effect, turn down the thermostat, Johnson suggests. One food fad with substance may be highprotein diets, adds Young. Studies suggest we have a strong appetite for protein and unconsciously strive to reach our body’s target, consuming more calories
THETHE BIGBIG EASY EASY
on skin containing a tattoo with black or blueblack lines? A. These lines are usually produced by injecting a pigment of iron oxide (magnetite), which is ferromagnetic, says Jearl Walker in “The Flying Circus of Physics.� Thus, a strong magnet can cling to the tattoo site. Curiously, it can also cause some of the magnetite to migrate through the dermis and collect between the dermis and epidermis, a tendency made use of in tattoo removal. A laser that emits light pulses in the near infrared (just out of the visible range) is first used on the tattoo to disrupt and disperse the ink pigments and to open up the epidermis. “Then a small
THE THECHALLENGE CHALLENGE
when protein deprived. One finding showed that people on a high-protein, low-glycemic diet could eat until they were full without gaining weight (“New England Journal of Medicine�). Finally, says Simone Bo of the University of Turin, Italy, too little sleep can make us fat. During her six-year study, the adults who became obese slept an average of 6.3 hours a night compared to 7.2 hours for their healthier mates. Sleep deprivation may be hormonally disruptive and appetite-inducing. An extra hour in bed sure beats going to the gym, concludes Young. Q. Why does a strong magnet cling to and pull
the target, at least from close range. So if you want to best your brother at one-on-one, follow this sure-fire strategy: #1 To help find the optimal spot to aim for, imagine a V with its point in the topcenter area of the backboard square. #2 Aim. Imagine a vertical line floating 3.3 inches behind the center of the backboard. Where it crosses the V is the best spot to bank. #3 Fire. The right amount of backspin for your bank is three revolutions per second. Practice by putting a dot on the ball.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS Bill a journalist, Rich holds a doctorate in physics. Together the brothers bring you “Strange But True.� Send your questions to strangetrue@compuserve.com
OBSERVER CROSSWORD PUZZLE
but very strong magnet is taped over the tattoo to attract some of the pigments to the surface for removal.� Q. If you fired off a basketball shot every five seconds day and night for two months straight, what might you learn? A. North Carolina State University mechanical engineer Larry Silverberg simulated this feat on a computer that fired off a million shots, reports Katharine Gammon in “Wired� magazine. He found that when shooting from many angles within 12 feet of the basket, the bank shot can be 20% more effective than the attempted swish shot because the backboard substantially increases your odds of hitting
SOLUTIONS: 1. SMALL BIRDS FOOT 2. LARGE BRANCH 3. LARGE BIRDS FEATHERS 4. LEAVES 5. LARGE BIRDS BEAK 6. SMALL BIRDS BELLY 7. LARGE BIRDS EYES 8. LARGE BIRDS WING
OBSERVER TRAVELS LOCATION
Manzanillo Beach, Mexico
CAPTION While on vacation this past March Break, Kieran & Solenne Brown seized the opportunity to get themselves into the Observer! Seen here on Manzanillo Beach, Mexico. They take a break from the fun in the sun to include the Observer in a photo.
Is Your Computer Running Slow?
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NOW OPEN: DOWNTOWN ELMIRA! We have what you need...right here in town!
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ACROSS 1. ___-Wan Kenobi 4. Alexander, e.g. 8. Downplaying 13. “48___� 14. Exude 15. Clickable image 16. A noun that does not form plurals 18. An entrance equipped with a hatch 21. Used a broom 22. To edit photographic imagery 24. “The Three Faces of ___� 25. Anger 26. “Concentration� pronoun 27. The “p� in m.p.g. 28. Blueprint
Church & Arthur St - at the Royal Bank Corner
30. Australian runner 32. Arch 34. Bond, for one 36. Professed 41. Thin layers of rock 42. An emotion 43. Small-time dictator 44. British ___ 45. Confined, with “up� 47. Fed. construction overseer 48. ___ roll 50. Bow 52. Like “The X-Files� 53. Large gathering of people 54. “Comprende?� 55. “Beetle Bailey� dog 56. “7-__� 57. Oolong, for one 59. Honoree’s spot
61. Christiania, now 62. ___ list DOWN 1. ___ law 2. (British) colourful 3. Japanese immigrant 4. Look down on with disdain 5. Animal house 6. Blue hue 7. Extend, in a way 8. Japanese soup 9. Absorb 10. Sweet; pleasant 11. Hold spellbound 12. Instrument for transmitting the information back to the observer 17. Bender 19. Fade away
20. School mos. 23. 10 kilogauss 29. “General Hospital,� e.g. 31. Grammar topic 33. Colony member 35. Apple variety 37. Climbing garden plant 38. Article of faith 39. “___ alive!� 40. No angel 41. Communicate silently 46. “Iliad� city 49. “Do not pass ___� 51. Male pronoun 55. Best 58. Had a bug 60. In the way indicated SOLUTION: on page 29
LIVING HERE | 35
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
CHEF’S TABLE: It’s all about the chocolate FROM | 32
Triple Chocolate Bread Pudding Ingredients Butter, as needed 4 L cubed bread (see options, above) 6 whole eggs 750 ml 10% cream 1 cup sugar 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp vanilla Pinch nutmeg 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup white chocolate, chopped
Preheat oven to 350°F.; Generously butter an ovenproof 9x 13 sized baking dish and fill with cubed bread. Set aside; Whisk together eggs, cream, sugar cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg; Sprinkle chocolates over bread cubes, and then pour custard mixture over the entire dish, patting the custard into the bread; Cover with foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 15 more minutes, until golden brown. Let stand 10- 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve with chocolate sauce. For chocolate sauce: 1 cup of milk chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup 35% cream, 2 tbsp butter
GARDEN: Creating a community resource
Place chocolate, cream and butter in a stainless steel or glass bowl and place over a double boiler. Water should be barely simmering; Heat until chocolate is fully melted, stirring occasionally. Note: This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for any chocolate sauce emergencies; just re-heat in the microwave.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS Chefs Kirstie Herbstreit and Jody O’Malley are both Red Seal certified chefs. Together they run The Culinary Studio, which offers classes, demonstrations and private dinners. To contact the chefs, visit their website www.theculinarystudio.ca
Milne hopes the garden will be used by seniors, renters and low-income families looking to grow their own vegetables over the summer. [COLIN DEWAR / THE OBSERVER]
FROM | 32
am looking for a garden to be built in the village that people can walk to and access.” Milne hopes the garden will be used by senior citizens, people who rent and do not have their own backyard space, or low-income families that may not have transportation that would like to have a little garden. Milne is seeking donations, including the land, plowing of the land and seeds for the gardeners to grow their vegetables. The goal is to keep costs low for those who’ll use the garden. “I am open to anything that is good clean land that we could subdivide into plots and share with the community,” he said. “I have tools that I am willing to let people use for the garden to keep as much of the costs down as I can.” He plans to have a booth at the Wellesley Home
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Show this May, encouraging people to help with his plan for the community garden. “I will have information there for people who want to join and that way I will be able to find out how many plots we might need and the see the interest from the community at large,” he said. He plans to approach the township looking for a piece of land if one isn’t made available. “The warm weather is coming fast and I just thought this would be a great way to get people out and at the same time we could have our own home grown fresh vegetables at a very low cost.”
Milne plans to bring families together with the communal garden saying it would be fun for families to participate in and watch the garden grow over the summer. “There is an obvious health aspect to this as well. If you can grow your own vegetables not using any pesticides you know how healthy that food is. Anything that you can pick from the ground and just eat is obviously healthier for you than something coming by truck from miles away.” Anyone interested in helping with the garden or donating to the cause is asked to contact Keith Milne at (519) 662-2731.
INDIAN RIVER DIRECT
ELMIRA ST. JACOBS CITRUS TRUCKLOAD SALE
MON. APRIL 2, 10:00am - noon New Apostolic Church (First & Arthur Streets)
THURS. APRIL 5, 10:00am - noon St. Jacobs Antiques Market (Beside Mark’s)
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25.00
20lb Box of Florida Seedless Navel Oranges $ OR Ruby Red Grapefruit
PER BOX
36 | BACK PAGE
y p p a H
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012
EASTER
VISIT THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES FOR ALL OF YOUR EASTER NEEDS.
EVERY BUNNY’S FAVOURITE CHOCOLATE
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Flowers, Chocolate, Candies & Gifts
our 2 foot chocolate Bunny. $200 value, no purchase necessary.
1429 King St. N. St. Jacobs (P) 519-664-1440
Open 24Hrs. 7 Days a Week!
www.brittles-n-more.com
315 Arthur St. S. • 519-669-5403
now - can EASTER FLOWERS PANSIES • Plant tolerate frost! • Hydrangeas • Calla Lilies • Caladium • Pot Mums • Easter Lilies and More!
Rieger Begonias $11.99 each or
SALE
1
12
$ .29 $ Box of 4 plants
.00 Reg. $15.48
Paul & Adèle’s
Tray of 12 boxes
2 for $20 BELGIAN PERENNIAL CENTRE
CUT FLOWERS
• Starting to fill up with perennials, vines and shrubs - more arriving weekly!
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Reg. $19.99
GARDEN SEEDS ARE HERE!
NOW ONLY $10.00 Reg $20.00 SEE DETAILS ON WEBSITE OR AT NURSERY
HOURS: MON - SAT 8-6, SUN 10-5
Explore...
The tropical greenhouse - 1000’s of house plants The Cactus House | The Pot Shop Hwy 7, Breslau | 519. 648.2608 | www.belgian-nursery.com
Sun. 9-6, Mon.-Fri. 8-9, Sat. 8-7 232 Arthur St. S., Elmira