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04 | 04 | 2015 VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 14
Taking their game to the next level SPORTS PAGE 11
COMMENT PAGE 8
Weakening labour market must be considered
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
Councillor’s bid for hiring freeze shot down in Woolwich Reluctant agreement reached to provide staffing numbers and costs in bid for more accountability STEVE KANNON Resisting any oversight role to get a handle on Woolwich’s growing staff costs, councillors shot down Coun. Pat Merlihan’s bid for a hiring freeze. Coun. Larry Shantz was the sole supporter of the bid for more accountability. Merlihan’s motion centered on getting information about staffing costs and the increase in numbers and expense to taxpayers. He’s been requesting information since last fall, and getting no response, he said as he and his colleagues met March 31. “Currently, council is blind,” he said, noting that councillors were given no information about the expense that makes up half the annual operating budget. “We have to start the conversation about staffing levels,” he argued, saying that the public perception – real or not – is that the township is staffheavy. His motion called not for an absolute hiring freeze, but management would have to come to council to make the case for filling any vacancies rather than simply going ahead accountability | 6
Kings win Cherrey Cup With 5-1 victory on home ice Wednesday night, team skates past Stratford Cullitons in five games The jubilant Sugar Kings gathered for the customary “number one” group photo following the big win Apr. 1. Inset, Kings veteran Mitch Wright hoists the Cherrey Cup. [Scott Barber / The Observer]
SCOTT BARBER The Elmira Sugar Kings captured the 20142015 Cherrey Cup Wednesday night with a decisive 5-1 victory over the Stratford Cullitons. More than 1,500 spectators packed the Woolwich Memorial Centre to watch game five. Leading the series 3-1, the Kings were eager to clinch the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Midwestern Conference championship on home ice; and so were their fans.
With outstanding performances throughout the lineup, including a 32-save night for netminder Jonathan Reinhart and a hat trick for rookie forward Ethan Skinner, they didn’t disappoint. Asked to describe the key to his club’s success, head coach Jeff Flanagan drew on what has been a common theme for the team all season long: defence. “Our guys were very defensively minded,” he said. “Our battles were better. Kings | 28
2 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
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Woodland team takes the top spot at North Bay robotics competition Scott Barber After capturing first place at the North Bay First Robotics Regional competition, the Woodland Christian High School Cyber Cavs booked their ticket to the world championships in St. Louis, Missouri. For a relatively small and inexperienced team with some 20 students onboard – other schools they compete against top 80 kids – it’s a major accomplishment for the Breslau-area school. “There is a lot of excitement for the team, but there’s also excitement for the school in general,” coach Matthew West said. “It’s definitely going to bring a lot more awareness for the team.” Coach Jen Vanderkooy added, “it’s also just a huge reward for the students, for all the work they have put into this.” The 2015 season has been a strong one for the Cyber Cavs. First, the group made it to the semi-finals at the University of Waterloo event March 20-22. Then, they followed that up by taking the top spot at the North Bay Regional Competition March 26-28. Next up, they’ll take on the best of the best at the world championships in St. Louis April 22-25. First (for inspiration and recognition of science and technology) robotics competitions have been running since the early ’90s, as a means to get students
interested in and involved with applied and computer sciences. Over the last two decades, it has evolved into a real spectacle, with thousands of teams participating all over the world. But just taking part is not an easy feat. Each January, First Robotics unveils an entirely new competition, demanding new, unique robots to be built from scratch every season. Then, the race is on to design, program and build the robot to fit the game’s structure by mid-February when inspections take place. This year, the game calls for robots that can stack rectangular plastic “totes” and large upright recycling bins into specific arena locations for points. The more totes and bins the robot can stack in the two and a half minute time span, the more points they receive. And while the idea may seem a bit monotonous at first, watching six robots speed around a small enclosed arena, furiously stacking and spinning around as fast as possible is quite exciting. This iteration also calls for some inter-school teamwork, as the game pits teams of three against one another. It all leads to a truly unique learning experience. And for the 20 or so kids involved this season, the hard work has paid off.
“I think a lot of (our success) comes from the experience the students have gained,” Vanderkooy explained. “They’ve learned from the mistakes that we’ve made last year and the year before, and they’ve built up from there.” Team member Matthias Mostert described the sport’s draw. “I really enjoy the teamwork,” he said. “At the competitions we have the opportunity to meet other teams and to develop relationships with them. And we also build relationships with the members of our own team. Also, I enjoy learning all about the mechanics and the programming. Whatever you’re interested in, there are mentors who can help you.” Robot driver Andrew Veldhuis concurred. “I like the fact that there are so many different aspects to it,” he explained. “It’s almost like running a small business. There are the mechanical and programming sides, just making the robot work in general. But there is also a huge business side to it, including public relations and community outreach.” Now that they’ve earned a spot at the worlds this month, club veteran Nat Stroobosscher says the team is really starting to make a name for itself. “The fact that we’ve won a regional in our third year, as a very small team of about 20 members, it really brings us out.”
NEWS | 3
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
Townships release pay and expense figures for councils, committees STEVE KANNON Woolwich councillors collected a total of $106,670.92 in pay and benefits, filing expense claims of $10,883.10. The totals jumped more than usual this year due to an overlap with a new, expanded council. The 2013 numbers were $91,602 and $12,648 respectively. 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 Ontario Municipal Act gives municipalities until March 31 to make the details public. The bulk of the 2014 expenses applied to the previous term of council. Former mayor Todd Cowan was paid $36,756.97, including $8,999.96 for serving on the Waterloo North Hydro board of directors (a new addition to the remuneration report this year). His benefits amounted to $1,524.75, while his expenses totaled $4,376.94. Former councillors Bonnie Bryant, Julie-Ann Herteis and Allan Poffenroth each received $16,275.43 for their time in office last year, with benefits costing taxpayers $825.15 apiece. They filed expenses of $2,525.25, $165.63 and $3,049.39 respectively. Mark Bauman, the sole member to stay on for the new term, was paid $17,273.17. Taxpayers were
on the hook for $879.29 in benefits, paying out expenses of $507.28. The new arrivals had only a few weeks on the payroll to end the year. Scott Hahn, Murray Martin, Patrick Merlihan and Larry Shantz each received $665.16 in pay, with benefits tallied at $33.87. Martin ($149.76) and Shantz (108.85) were the only new councillors to file expenses. Mayor Sandy Shantz was paid $1,153.85, with benefits pegged at $63.26. Petherick’s report also noted the township paid five members of its Committee of Adjustment remuneration totaling $1,720 and expenses that amounted to $943.44. In Wellesley, former mayor Ross Kelterborn was paid $16,198.05 plus mileage and expenses totalling $2,044.10. He made an additional $9,349.96 for his service on the board of Waterloo North Hydro. Former councillors Paul Hergott and Jim Olender each received $10,334.44. Returning councillors Herb Neher and Shelly Wagner were paid $11,228.48. Of the newcomers elected last fall, Mayor Joe Nowak received $1,472.55 by year’s end. Councillors Carl Smit and Peter van der Maas made $894.04. The township paid its four members of the committee of adjustment $980, doling out another $469.59 for mileage expenses. The six members of the township’s recreation committee received a total of $950.
HOW TO REACH US
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Abandoned in 1990, the old Canadian Pacific Rail bridge across the Grand River just north of West Montrose could be rebuilt following an engineering feasibility study authorized by the Region of Waterloo. [Scott barber / the observ er]
Region to study options for rebuilding old train bridge as part of trailway route, including another major bridge over the Conestogo River near Wallenstein, it’s not going to be an easy road. “To get the Guelph to Goderich Trail done it is probably going to take, optimistically, $3 million on a four-year, absolute minimum timeline,” explained RTO4 executive Napier Simpson. “Four years would be super ambitious, with everything clicking along and funds becoming available along with permits and a whole bunch of things that aren’t ready yet.” The Kissing Bridge Trail, also part of the Trans Canada Trail, runs 47 km from Guelph to Millbank along an abandoned Canadian Pacific Rail line. Currently,
SCOTT BARBER Aiming to eliminate detours along the Kissing Bridge Trail, the Region of Waterloo is chipping in $40,000 towards a study on a potential rebuild of the demolished rail bridge across the Grand River just north of West Montrose. The provincial tourism body for Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington (Regional Tourism Organization 4) is expected to match the contribution, as part of its bid to promote the development of a contiguous 127 km trail stretching from Guelph to the shores of Lake Huron at Goderich. But with more than twodozen trail related projects still in the works along the
the path takes a detour at the Grand River, where a CPR bridge was abandoned in 1990, cutting south at Katherine Street before crossing the river by way of the Kissing Bridge at West Montrose. Reconstruction of old rail bridge would cut out the Kissing Bridge portion from the Guelph to Goderich Trail, although walkers and riders could still choose to take the detour. “Replacement of the bridge would also be a significant step toward achieving the larger RTO4 goal of having an off-road multiuse trail on the former rail right-of-way from Guelph to Goderich,” Chris Gosselin, a Region of Waterloo environment manager, wrote
in a report to council. ... “At approximately 130 metres in length, it is well beyond the resources of the trailway steward groups to complete. In addition to its length, its physical setting is challenging. The east bank of the Grand River is significantly higher in elevation than the west bank. Any construction equipment required to install a new bridge would have to use the high steep embankment on the west bank or travel about one kilometre east from the river to descend to the surface of the Trailway and then proceed west to the abutments. When the original bridge was pulled in the early 1990s, the abutments and Bridge | 6
The sun shines in on public sector spending steve kannon Woolwich and Wellesley townships contributed eight members to a list of almost 3,600 people in the region who earned more than $100,000 on the public payroll in 2014. Across the province, the list — which includes doctors, nurses, teachers, police and firefighters in addition to civil servants — grew by 14 per cent to 111,440
names. The provincially mandated salary information was released last week. In Woolwich, chief administrative officer David Brenneman was the highest paid of township employees, taking in $143,939.77. Director of engineering and planning Dan Kennaley, was paid $111,222.75, the same as director of finance/ treasurer Richard Petherick, director of recreation and facilities Karen Make-
lan and townhip fire chief Rick Pedersen. The midyear departure of director of council and information services/clerk Christine Broughton dropped that position from the list. Public works supervisor Barry Baldasaro came in at $104,787.36, while the list was rounded out by manager of engineering Richard Sigurdson, who was paid $103,700.78. In Wellesley, chief ad-
ministrative officer Will McLaughlin was the sole member of the list, earning $120,362.65. At the Region of Waterloo, there were 238 people among those paid more than $100,000 by taxpayers, up from 225 the year before. The list includes Chair Ken Seiling at $160,501.19. The Waterloo Regional Police provided 403 names to the list, an increase from 383 the year previous.
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4 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
Elmira’s sweetest day of all After a cold start to the day, the sun welcomed the 68,000 people who flocked into town for the festival Whitney Neilson The syrup was flowing, the pancakes were sizzling, and the sun was shining on the 51st Elmira Maple Syrup Festival last Saturday. Despite a chilly start to the morning, clear blue skies invited some 68,000 people to the world’s largest oneday syrup fest, which has become an annual outing for many. “It’s not just a festival, it’s now a tradition,” chairperson Drew McGovern said. “I have three kids and they’re all in their 30s now. Getting home for sap day is a big, big deal. Sap day, you have to come home.” He said the morning started off slow because of the negative double digits, but once the sun came out the people came with it. “By 10 o’clock, 11 o’clock, the way I tell is I stand and I look down at the mall and
if the only thing I can see is heads, I’m happy,” McGovern said. “It was like that until 3 o’clock.” The EMSF committee met this week to follow up after the festival and he said they’re calling it a success. There was a definite increase in attendance compared to last year’s festival, where they saw between 55,000 and 60,000 people. The record is 80,000. They determine the attendance based on a system. “It’s to do with parking and it’s also to do with, we collect some of the money from the vendors and the mall and then we look at how many pancake breakfasts were sold,” McGovern said. “It’s a system we’ve worked out over the years. Obviously it would be great if we could tell everyone to freeze and then run around and count everyone, but we don’t think they would be
Lauren Sanchez enjoyed the famous Elmira Maple Syrup Fest pancakes at the 51st annual event on Mar. 28. too happy about that.” He said someone mentioned they could use a drone and take a high resolution photo of the downtown, but that wouldn’t account for people coming in and out during the day, or the additional people at the WMC. They watch the hay wagons which start bringing in people from the parking lots at 7 a.m., and they can see how long people stay by when the wagons fill up with people heading back out of town. “I think it’s like a threehour, four-hour thing,” McGovern said. “I don’t think people come at 7 and they’re still puttering around at 4 in the afternoon. If they have children, that’s too long of a day for having them outside.” They’d like to see lots of people coming when it opens at 7, but that didn’t
happen this year. He guesses they probably lost a couple thousand people there just from the two-hour cold spell. As for volunteers, they had 2,000 show up from across the region to help keep the festival running smoothly. “We have a variety of different church groups that come out every year and help us flip pancakes,” McGovern said. “A lot of the groups are service groups as well as churches. They’re all volunteering their time.” He said the festival creates a means for those groups to make money too. When they collect the money from the service groups, it’s amazing how much money they’re bringing in, he added. For some of them it’s their main means of fundraising for the whole year. “For example, the Ventures do a fantastic job
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for us,” McGovern said. “They’re out at 2 o’clock in the morning helping us lay the road out for the vendors. They’re with us the whole day, picking up garbage. They’re with us at the end of the day, helping us clean up. We want to make sure no one’s ever going to come back and say ‘the festival’s great, but what a mess they leave behind them.” The pancake mile was a new event this year and he thinks it’ll become an annual event, so others can break this year’s record. The male and female winners received a bottle of maple syrup as their prize. Pancake-wise, they didn’t sell out as in previous years, but that’s not because there wasn’t a steady line. They now keep a large enough stock of supplies to feed everyone. There was a steady stream of hungry people
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lining up for the plate-sized pancakes from 7 a.m. up until 2 p.m. He said after that most people don’t have an appetite for pancakes. They estimate they fed between 9,000 and 10,000 people. “I think our one is probably one of the first ones,” McGovern said. “It’s kind of a celebration of spring. People have been in their houses and as you know it’s been a horrible, cold winter. All of a sudden the sun came out and people they just want to get out for the day.” With five decades in the books, McGovern muses on why their festival remains a fixture in so many people’s lives, when there are others in southern Ontario they could go to. “I think people are quite happy to just sit back and relax and get on with their lives after our festival is done.”
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NEWS | 5
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
Committee to gauge Breslau’s response to school proposal Tabitha David, Janine McGregor and Jesha Raveendraraj enjoyed maple taffy. [scott barber / The Observer]
Council agrees to taskforce to seek public input on deal that would sell parkland to Catholic board, pay for upgrades STEVE KANNON
A bald eagle made an appearance at the WMC as part of the Canadian Raptor Conservancy show. [scott barber / The Observer]
The “Mother Flippers” team sported Mexican-themed costumes for the pancake flipping contest at the WMC. [scott barber / The Observer]
Runners posed with the EMSF mascot Flapjack before taking part in the pancake mile on the indoor track at the WMC.
[scott barber / The Observer]
A community taskforce will help decide the fate of a proposal to build a new elementary school on parkland in Breslau. The goal is to engage residents and get feedback on the plan, which would see Woolwich Township sell a portion of land in Breslau Memorial Park to the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. The deal will provide for $1.75 million in upgrades to the park and community centre, as well as community access to new facilities, including a 5,000-squarefoot library operated by the Region of Waterloo. Reaction thus far has been largely negative from those residents closest to the site, with others seeing the benefits of the partnership. In approving the taskforce concept Tuesday night, Woolwich council called for input from a wider range of village residents before making a decision on the project. Coun. Patrick Merlihan said the process has to be meaningful in order to
counter residents’ impression that the outcome is a foregone conclusion – “There is some distrust in the community.” The township has heard from only a small number of residents to this point, noted Coun. Murray Martin. The taskforce will be made up of nine members: six representatives of Breslau residents – two who’ve expressed opposition to the project, two in favour and two undecided – someone from council, a representative of the St. Boniface parent committee and a neutral, third-party chair. The township is accepting applications for committee membership until April 10. The group is expected to hear input from various stakeholders and the public prior to making recommendations back to council in June. One group eager to provide input is the Breslau Lions Club. The group has been working towards building a splash pad in the park, but that project is on hold while the township Committee | 6
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6 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
accountability: Managers forced to provide councillors with staffing numbers and costs from | COVER
with hiring without any oversight. Coun. Mark Bauman led the charge against Merlihan’s resolution. He immediately asked for a recorded vote, bringing the mayor’s vote into play and setting up the possibility of a split on the six-member council,
enough to kill the motion. He also used the debate to push again for a servicelevel review, a $60,000 study that gained little traction with most councillors during the budget deliberations. Mayor Sandy Shantz dismissed the idea as “micromanaging staff,” saying
council isn’t qualified to judge staffing numbers. “I’m shocked that there’s such opposition to wanting to be informed,” replied Merlihan. “We need the information to make informed decisions.” Merlihan said there has thus far been no information presented to council.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Wellesley will hold a Public Meeting on the 28th day of April, 2015 at 6:45 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill, Ontario, for the purpose of receiving comments with respect to aZoning By-law amendment application to amend Zoning By-law 28/2006. THE PROPOSALS: The Township of Wellesley has received an application for a Zoning By-law amendment related to the property at 5610 Streicher Line. The subject property is 0.4 hectares in size, and contains a former school building. The property is currently zoned Institutional and the current owners wish to use the school as a residence. A residential use is not permitted within the current Institutional zone. The property is proposed to be removed from the Institutional zone and placed in the Agricultural zone with site specific regulations to allow for the residential use on the existing 0.4 hectare property. The location of the property is shown on the key map below.
If previous councils chose not to look at the numbers, that’s no reason for this council to do so. “Otherwise, we’re refusing to be informed about half of Woolwich’s budget.” In response to a question from Coun. Scott Hahn, David Brennman said a hiring freeze would have no
impact on the day-to-day operations of the township. The number of people hired due to attrition or retirement might range from a couple to five or six in a busy year. Coun. Larry Shantz supported the motion, calling it another tool for councillors to get a handle on
township business. “I don’t understand why this should be a tough one to support.” In the end, councillors agreed to have staff provide them with numbers and figures attached to the large growth in costs, but shot down the idea of the hiring freeze.
Committee: Breslau residents to have their say from | 4
explores the partnership opportunity with the school board. Ideally, said director of recreation and facilities Karen Makela, the splash pad would be built as part of the larger upgrade project if the school deal goes ahead. Addressing councillors this week, Lions Club member Jeff Barnard said the group hasn’t had much information about the larger project and its impact on the splash pad. The club had been hoping to go ahead in 2015, but that’s not going to happen now. Having gathered up $50,000 towards the splash pad’s estimated $300,000 to $400,000 price tag, the group has put fundraising on hold while the school board proposal plays out. “Right now we’re sort of at a standstill until we get the school issue resolved,” he said, noting the club would like to know how much money might be saved by combining the
work with the wider improvements to the park. Given that the township would have to extend municipal water and sewer services to the location of the pad, it makes sense to do all of the upgrades “in one fell swoop,” said Makela, adding she would expect there to be cost savings due to the economy of scale. If the school project goes ahead, the plan is to construct a new building that would provide washrooms, a concession stand and house the mechanical plant for the splash pad. Those costs aren’t part of the Lions’ project, she added. Other upgrades to the park should the larger project proceed include relocating the lower baseball diamond to provide a buffer between the home run fence and neighbouring homes, new lighting, resurfacing the tennis courts and installing new fencing, upgrades to the soccer field, improvements to the parking lot and creating a multiuse trail system.
In addition, the school board would pay for upgrades to the community centre in order to accommodate a shared-use agreement with the township. The splash pad would be over and above those improvements, said Makela. For Barnard, the timing is a key question, as is whether or not the splash pad could be funded in part by development charges – money collected from builders for every new home they construct. That project is eligible under the development charges bylaw – up to 72 per cent of costs can be covered, said director of finance Richard Petherick – but there had been no discussion of that with the Lions previously. Barnard said the group is concerned about the larger township project’s potential impact on its fundraising drive, though the goal is to get the splash pad built. “At the end of the day, our goal is to get more facilities for the citizens of Breslau.”
Bridge: Restoration will need fundraising push from | 3
piers remaining from the original bridge construction in 1904-05 were left behind. Before any new bridge can be designed, it will be necessary to carry out a thorough assessment of the structural integrity of these features. Structural engineers may have to be lowered onto the piers by helicopter. Clearly, this would be a complicated
project, and an engineering feasibility study would be required to inform the design and construction of the bridge and prepare cost estimates required for any fundraising efforts.” With an expected $80,000 budget for the study, there could be money left over for upgrades to the trail’s wayfinding signage, the report added.
But funding for the bridge itself will need to either come from the region’s capital budget, down the line, or from fundraising efforts by trail steward groups, since RTO4 is prohibited from providing monies for capital projects. The region’s portion of the study costs is coming from its community environmental fund.
Any persons may attend the public meeting and make written and/or verbal representation either in support of or in opposition to the proposed amendment and plan of subdivision. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of Wellesley before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Township of Wellesley to the Ontario Municipal Board. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Township of Wellesley before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Municipal Board unless, in the opinion of the Board, there are reasonable grounds to do so. Additional information relating to the proposed application is available for inspection during regular business hours at the Municipal Offices of the Township of Wellesley. Information requests may also be submitted to: Geoff VanderBaaren, Planner, gvanderbaaren@wellesley.ca 4639 Lobsinger Line, St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0PH: 519.699.3952 FX: 519.699.4540, Dated at the Township of Wellesley this 31 day of March, 2015 st
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2015
Cowan defaults on election filing
Wellesley trims staff costs
On top of his legal woes over double billing expense claims, former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan has defaulted on the Municipal Elections Act requirement to file an election campaign financial statement related to last fall’s vote. All paperwork was due in the township office by March 27, and Cowan was the only candidate not to comply. As a result, he is now ineligible to stand as a municipal council candidate anywhere in Ontario during the next trip to the polls in 2018.
Trimming unneeded staff costs, Wellesley council this week voted to scale back on its bylaw enforcement, reducing a full-time position to part-time. The move comes after the township analyzed data on bylaw complaints since January. Bylaw enforcement staff was previously compensated at $70,255 per year plus benefits of $21,127. Under the new structure, wages would be approximately 21 hours per week at $35 per hour for a total of $38,220,
plus benefits of $4,444. This will save $48,718 annually. The township is also scaling back its animal control efforts. Current costs of $20,400 per year plus benefits of $2,358 are to be reduced under a new wage structure: seven hours a week at $31.93 per hour, for $11,622.52 plus benefits of $1,230.76. This would save approximately $9,904.72 annually.
EA to go ahead
Woolwich will go ahead with an environmental assessment for the Glasgow Street bridge. The $20,000 cost is to be taken from the infrastruc-
ture reserve fund, and returned in next year’s budget, councillors meeting this week decided. The process will help the township decide what to do about the aging steel truss bridge, which is subject to weight and height restrictions and directly responsible for a very inconvenient and unpopular left-turn restriction at the other end of Glasgow Street. Access to the roadway at Millennium Drive in Waterloo was intentionally made problematic to reduce the amount of traffic passing over the bridge. Drivers, however, routinely ignore the prohibition and make left turns over the median.
Wellesley backs playground plan Wellesley will likely have its own accessible playground this summer after council this week approved a recommendation to oversee the purchase and construction of an allinclusive playground at the community centre. A project of the Wellesley and District Lions Club, its budget is estimated at $297,000. Councillors authorized the finance department to carry any project deficit until the Lions Club fundraising efforts reach the goal of the total project cost.
Construction is likely to get underway in the spring.
Alma writer off to New Zealand
Alma’s Sharon Grose, photographer and agricultural journalist, is this year’s recipient of the Canadian Farm Writers’ Federation (CFWF) International Bursary. The bursary will allow Grose to attend the 2015 International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ) Congress, in Hamilton, New Zealand. She will be sharing information gathered at the event with her fellow farm writers, as well as a broader audience.
POLICE BLOTTER
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Expect a seatbelt blitz if you’re out on the road On the road over the Easter weekend? Buckle up and mind the driving, as Ontario Provincial Police offers will be out in force for a safety blitz, focusing on seatbelt compliance. The lack of occupant
MARCH 2 5
1:31 PM | Police received a report of a break-in at an address on Farmers Market Road south of St. Jacobs. The locks had been cut off of two storage units behind the Walmart store, but nothing was taken. 3:49 PM | A driver negotiating a curve on Kossuth Road in Woolwich Township lost control of the vehicle, which slid off the road and flipped onto its side. No one was injured. No charges were laid. MARCH 2 6
5:09 AM | A vehicle travelling on Bridge Street East in Woolwich Township struck a deer. 5:08 PM | A rear-end collision occurred at Mill and Arthur streets in Elmira when the trailing vehicle struck the back of red Dodge pickup truck. The car suffered damage that included a pushed-in hood. There were no injuries. The driver of the car was
restraint usage continues to be one of the “Big 4” causal factors that contribute to personal injury and fatal collisions investigated by the OPP. The other contributors most often seen as factors in most collisions are aggressive
charged with ‘following too closely.’ 6:22 PM | Two vehicles collided on Farmers Market Road south of St. Jacobs, with the driver of a Honda making a left turn across the path of a driver in a Chevrolet. Both vehicles were heavily damaged, but no one was injured. Police have laid no charges at this time. MARCH 2 8
7:50 PM | A 20-year-old Owen Sounds woman had her 2009 Volkswagen seized after being clocked doing 134 km/h on an 80 km/h stretch of Wellington Road 17 outside of Alma. Wellington County OPP took her car and driver’s licence for seven days. She was charged with ‘race a motor vehicle,’ and is expected to appear in Guelph Provincial Court on May 20. MARCH 2 9
10:13 AM | Police were called to Lions Hall in Elmira where the
driving, distracted driving, and impaired driving by both alcohol and drug. Wellington County OPP will also be checking car seats. Many of the mistakes commonly found by police during car seat checks include child
not in the appropriate restraint, child not harnessed in the restraint correctly, and seatbelts not tight enough. The fine is $240 and two demerit points for a seatbelt infraction including car seats.
front door had been smashed, causing damage pegged at $600. Vandals are suspected.
a school bus on Waterloo Street in New Hamburg. The investigation is ongoing.
5:15 PM | A 40-year-old Waterloo man was arrested for impaired driving after his vehicle struck the bridge on Northfield Drive East. Damage was estimated at $5,000. The driver was not injured, but responding officers found him to be impaired by alcohol. He had more than twice the legal limit of alcohol in his system.
6:17 PM | Wellington County OPP officers investigated a female driver of a 2003 Dodge van that was located leaving an address on Concession 6 in Mapleton Township. Police were advised that the property owner did not know the driver of the vehicle and when questioned her story was inconsistent in regards to her purpose there. Police placed the driver under arrest for trespassing and subsequently searched her vehicle. Officers located several vials of a white, crystal like substance believed to be methamphetamine along with drug paraphernalia. A 51-year-old Kitchener woman was subsequently charged with ‘possession of methamphetamine’ and ‘trafficking methamphetamine.’ She is scheduled to appear in Guelph Criminal Court on May 19 to answer to the charges.
10:16 PM | A driver travelling on William Hastings Line in Wellesley Township lost control of their vehicle on an icy patch of road before sliding into a ditch. The vehicle suffered significant damage. MARCH 3 0
9:37 AM | Police received a complaint about two or three female students threatening a male student with knife after getting off
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8 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
JOE MERLIHAN PUBLISHER STEVE KANNON EDITOR
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Our view / editorial
The VIEW from here
Public spending ignores realities of the job market Ontarians steaming over the latest iteration of the sunshine list and reports of runaway government payrolls find themselves working in a softer job market even as corporate profits reach new heights. In essence, more money is being lifted from their wallets by government profligacy even as their own prospects dim due to the private sector’s focus on profit margins. Squeezed at both ends. A new report from CIBC World Markets shows corporate profit margins in Canada hit a 27-year high in the fourth quarter. The average profit margin of all non-financial corporations rose to 8.2 per cent of sales in the fourth quarter of 2014. While corporate profit margins fluctuate with the economy, historically they have tended to average less than five per cent, the report notes. The reason? There are no shortage of explanations: globalization, innovation, lower cost of capital, high barriers to entry, and reduced bargaining power of labour among them. That last item identified by the bank – a weaker position for labour – is a biggie. With government spending and taxes outstripping inflation and growth in the economy, more of us are falling behind, with no uptick in sight. The bank reports that the rise in margins over the past two years has been relatively strong, with margins expanding by almost a full percentage point since 2012, pointing to two factors, softening labour costs and a sinking loonie. The pace of growth in labour costs dropped sharply from 3.5 per cent in 2012 to 1 per cent in 2014, while the Canadian dollar has depreciated nearly 25 per cent. So, we’ll be seeing less in the way of raises, while facing increasing costs for imported goods, particularly food. Most of us have already noticed the grocery bills climbing steeply. Don’t expect that to change – in addition to the loonie, there are a host of environmental issues at play here, too – and don’t expect your paycheque to be adjusted to even the reported rate of inflation, let alone the real one. It’s not strictly gloom and doom. Another report out this week, this one from the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada, found Canadians on a whole feel that they are doing alright financially and living comfortably despite the unsettled economic climate. Canadian households also rate themselves highly in terms of financial discipline but they are not taking action to plan for potential changes in the economy. It seems many Canadian households do not feel threatened by today’s unsettled economy yet they are vulnerable because of high debt levels, says the organization. However, the report reveals a number of troublesome findings: More than half of non-retired households said they did not save on a regular basis even though 65 per cent of all households assessed the level of their financial discipline as somewhat or very strong; only 60 per cent of households with debt said they paid off a portion of their debt on a regular basis; a mere 16 per cent expected a negative change in their personal financial situation because of the changing economic outlook; more than half (51 per cent) of non-retired households said they do not have a special reserve fund for unexpected financial emergencies, in additional to regular savings for other purposes. Maybe things aren’t so grand, after all, some people’s optimism notwithstanding. The precarious reality ought to sink in for all us, especially those charged with (purported good) governance.
Seeing even the simplest bids for accountability shot down, Woolwich residents know where some of their councillors stand -- and it’s not on the side of the public. WORLD view / GWYNNE DYER
Intergalactic pirates rate fairly low on our list of worries WORLD AFFAIRS I really liked the furious debate that broke out recently among astronomers about whether we should send out signals to the universe saying “we’re here.” It implicitly assumes that somehow, if your science is really advanced, then interstellar travel is possible. I like it because I hate the idea that the human race will never be able to go beyond this little planetary system “far out in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the western spiral arm of the Galaxy,” as Douglas Adams put it in his “Hitch-Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.” We need somebody to do to Einstein’s physics what Einstein did to Newton’s. But while we’re waiting for that, it’s good to know that some quite grown-up scientists (astronomers, not physicists, admittedly, but I’ll take whatever I can get) think it’s worth having a debate about whether we should take the risk of letting all the aliens know we
are here. I missed the debate when it took place at the American Association for the Advancement of Science’s annual conference in San Jose last month because I was on Mars at the time. (Well, somewhere that felt quite like Mars, anyway.) But here’s a couple of quotes to give the flavour of it. “Any society that could come here and ruin our whole day by incinerating the planet already knows we are here,” said Dr. Seth Shostak, senior astronomer and director at the Center for SETI (Search for ExtraTerrestrial Intelligence) Institute in California. Not so fast, said space scientist and science-fiction writer David Brin. “The arrogance of shouting into the cosmos without any proper risk assessment defies belief. It is a course that would put our grandchildren at risk,” he said. If we send them messages, they may come here and enslave us. Or just eat us. Now, the traditional way to shut this debate down is to point out that we’ve already been sending out radio and television signals for a hundred years.
Therefore, any intergalactic pirates within a hundred light-years of here already know where we are. But it turns out that this isn’t actually true: our radio and television signals begin to fade into the background radio static beyond about one light-year away. Since the nearest star is more than four light-years away, there’s not much chance that the Klingons or Vogons or whoever you’re worried about knows we’re here yet. (And there goes the plot of “Galaxy Quest.”) On the other hand, powerful radar signals of the kind that we have been using to map the surface of other planets and moons in our own system travel a very long way, and we’ve already been sending them out for more than twenty years. They don’t carry much information – they just say “somebody here can generate microwave radiation” – but just that might be enough to attract unwelcome attention. This new debate is actually about “active SETI.” We have been doing “passive SETI” – listening for messages from civilisations around other stars – for more than forty
years already, using large radio telescopes that can pick up very faint signals. But there are quite strict rules about who should reply if they do get a message. The First Protocol, drafted by the International Academy of Astronautics SETI Panel in 1989, says that “no transmission in response to a signal or other evidence of extraterrestrial intelligence should be sent until appropriate international consultations have taken place.” But the advocates of “active SETI” want to scrap that and send out an “all call” to the universe. One of the reasons the debate has got more heated is that we now know planets are as common as dirt. It’s only twenty years since the first confirmed discovery of an “exoplanet,” but now we know of 1,906 of them, mostly orbiting relatively nearby stars and a very small proportion showing Earth-like characteristics. (But the actual number of Earth-like planets may be much higher, since it’s a lot easier to find gas-giants like Jupiter or Saturn.) There are probably hunDYER | 10
COMMENT | 9
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
Their view / question OF THE WEEK
How will you be celebrating Easter this weekend?
»»Eliza Domzella
»»Addison Gunn
»»Summer Nicolas
»»Sophia Nicolas
»»Carter Stagat
“Hiding Easter Eggs.”
“Going to see my friends.”
“Spending time with family.”
“Easter egg hunting.”
‘Easter egg hunting because that’s my favorite.”
“First, we need to realize that skateboarding and graffiti go together like ketchup and french fries.” Victor Daveikis | 10 HIS view / STEVE KANNON
So much sunshine has the public getting more than a little steamed EDITOR'S NOTES There’s nothing like the annual sunshine list to get us all hot under the collar … unless we’re one of those lucky enough to be on it. The annual list of those public sector employees making more than $100,000 continues to grow by leaps and bounds. It now includes 111,440 people, up 14 per cent from 2013, which had 11 per cent more names than in 2012 ... and so on. Beyond pushing more people into the top five per cent of wage earners (well, earning is a bit of stretch, to many minds), such pay now eats up more than 52 per cent of all program spending. We spend more, and get less as a rule, all the while paying the non-productive part of the economy at twice the rate of what the average taxpayer makes. Unchecked spending, particularly on salaries, benefits and pensions, has driven up taxes and
contributed to the souring of public opinion beyond what lying and corrupt politicians have historically been able to do all on their own. Even politicians, never eager to act in the public interest except to save their skins, are taking note. It’s the impetus behind talk of restraint – much of it fake – at all levels of government, including this week’s discussion about a hiring freeze in Woolwich. Any more of this and we might actually see some accountability from government. The belt-tightening most of us are enduring leaves us in no mood to accept that others aren’t sharing in the hardships. That goes double for those people paid from the ever-increasing taxes taken from our diminishing paycheques. Various forums, blogs and news sites are filled with vitriol aimed at civil service employees. Talk of inflated wages, generous benefits, casual working conditions and job security fuel countless rants. While many exaggerate the situation, there’s no arguing
HOW TO REACH US
far in excess of what the average taxpayer makes. Facing ever-increasing electricity bills – again, much higher costs for no additional benefit – we’re rightly ticked off to see more than 12,000 workers from Ontario Power Generation and Hydro One walking on sunshine. That includes the highest figure on the list, OPG’s chief executive Tom Mitchell at $1.6 million. Closer to home, Woolwich has seven names on the list, representing a hit of $800,000 to local residents. Wellesley adds just one to the mix. Inclusion on the list puts government employees in the top five per cent of all earners in the province. Once seen as a place where job security came with lower wages, public service now means higherthan-average pay, benefits and working conditions. As the public sector grows, it becomes an even bigger burden. Salary figures indicate a growing gap between civil service wages and the average earning of private sector employees. The
discrepancy is likely to increase, as average industry wages will remain stagnant or decline dramatically in some industries as layoffs take hold. Even though the recession is officially over, unemployment remains high and private-sector wages depressed. The gap and resultant drag on society is well documented in recent studies, as others pile on to show the negatives of the public sector. Spending on government worker wages and benefits in Ontario has increased substantially since 2005/06, hindering the province’s ability to balance its books says a report released last week by the right-wing Fraser Institute. The study calculates that between 2005/06 and 2013/14 (the latest year of available data), compensation spending by the Ontario government – including wages, benefits, and pensions –increased by 47.1 per cent, faster than all other program spending (38.8 per cent) and well beyond the combined rate of inflation and provincial government job growth (26
per cent). “As the Ontario government prepares to table its budget with yet another deficit, now is a critical time to scrutinize all forms of government spending, and especially compensation spending, which has grown at a significant rate,” says Charles Lammam, director of fiscal studies at the Fraser Institute and co-author of the report. If you work in the private sector, you’re making up to $8,150 less per year, and working up to six hours more each week, than someone doing the same job for the government, according to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ latest Wage Watch report, pointing to a huge wage and benefits advantage for public sector workers over the rest of us. When salaries, benefits and working hours are factored in, the average federal, provincial or municipal employee makes 18-37 per cent more than someone doing the same job in a private business. Canada kannon | 10
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there is a growing income gap between public employees and the average taxpayer. When times are tough, the simmering dissatisfaction with that unsustainable situation is bound to boil over. The anger is building up a good head of steam. The annual sunshine list is fuel on the fire. There’s been an upward trend since reporting such salaries was made mandatory beginning in 1996. The idea was to show the public how many government employees were pulling in large dollars, even as their unions cried poor in the face of the tougher fiscal policies. We were meant to be ticked off by the long inventory of names. Back then, there were 4,319 names on the list. Today it’s grown by a factor of 25. Perusing the list, few Ontarians would have trouble with the salaries paid to doctors, researchers and similar professionals. There are more than raised eyebrows however over bus drivers, utility workers, firefighters, educators and the like raking in money
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10 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
The MONITOR
VERBATIM
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
The tax rate on jet fuel increased from 3.7 cents to 4.7 cents per litre on Apr. 1, the second fuel tax hike since last year’s budget, and by 2017 the tax is scheduled to grow from 2.7 cents to 6.7 cents per liter, a 148% hike. An estimated three million Ontarians already drive across the border looking for travel deals. With this new tax hike, the National Airlines Council of Canada estimates an additional 292,700 to 407,800 air travellers will be driven away.
“Look this is the highest single increase to the Sunshine List ever, 13.9% over 2013 – an inexcusable amount given the financial situation in the province. Take Hydro One for instance ... here we’ve heard that our electricity bills will be going up by $120, and the same day we see that 77 per cent of Hydro One employees are now on the sunshine list – that’s not a coincidence.”
Police investigated a set of quick, smash and grab break-ins at three Woolwich pharmacies that are connected to a recent series of similar thefts of narcotics in the region. The three pharmacies, Woolwich Centre Pharmacy and Shoppers Drug Mart in Elmira and Martin’s Pharmacy in St. Jacobs, were hit within 22 minutes of each other on the evening of Mar. 28. Police confirmed percodan, morphine and demerol were among the drugs taken from the pharmacies.
»»Canadian Taxpayers Federation
»»Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Michael Harris reacts to the runaway spending
»»From the Apr. 6, 2002 edition of The Observer
illustrated in the ever-expanding sunshine list
Dyer: Despite radio waves, an
National view
alien invasion is not imminent
FROM | 8
dreds of thousands of planets in our vicinity (there are 260,000 stars within 250 light-years). If even a mere few thousand of them are Earth-like, then it is imaginable that somebody might come calling in response to the messages we send – if, and only if, it is possible to travel at nearor trans-light speeds. Nobody knows how light-speed travel could be done, and our current understanding of physics says that it can’t be done. But this would be a very silly debate
if scientists were really all convinced that there is no possibility of getting around the current speed limit. They will never say that it might be possible, because they cannot suggest how it might be done and the risk to their reputations would therefore be extreme. But they are quite happy to engage in a debate that would be totally irrelevant if they didn’t think there is a chance that we – or some other civilisation in our galactic vicinity – will eventually figure out how to do it. And that cheers me up considerably.
kannon: Walking on sunshine FROM | 9
Post workers and federal government employees are the biggest beneficiaries. “The public-private wage gap is the elephant in every room when it comes to setting the public policy agenda in this country,” says Ted Mallett, chief econo-
Your view / letter
Why not provide an outlet for graffiti artists?
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To the Editor, It seems that the Elmira skate park has now been officially ‘tagged’, and according to the co-owner of a professional graffiti removal service, “It’s not a victimless crime. … Look at the guys working.” (I assume that he means that the true victims in this case
are the guys being paid to do their job.) He goes on to say that, “If you don’t stay on top of it, then people think it’s alright to do it. Before you know it, this place will be closed.” He is absolutely right, and to do the correct thing we should make sure that his poor workers will never again be subjected to such victimhood. In order to do that, why not take an intelligent approach? First, we need to realize that skate-
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boarding and graffiti go together like ketchup and french fries. Second, we need to realize that a layer of paint can’t ‘close down’ an unsupervised/unstaffed lump of concrete. Third, we need to realize that for every idiot with a spray can who roams the street at night there are true street artists out there who would absolutely love to have a place where they can go and do their art publicly, without fear of criminal prosecution. When all the realizations are added up, the intelligent solution to this nonexistent problem is to not only allow but to encourage street art to happen here. Embrace it. You could even go so far as what Barcelona did and have an annual street art event here. The possibilities are endless. Have rules of course – no obscenity, racism, or bigotry will be tolerated, and such things will be painted over imme-
mist and vice-president at CFIB. “Public sector earnings have been allowed to drift well above markettested norms, and cashstrapped governments are looking for ways to invest in infrastructure and other priorities. Closing the gap is not just what’s fair, it’s what is needed.” diately. What you will see is that such a thing will actually police itself, and that immature amateur eyesores like the one seen in the front page photo will soon be covered over by better things by much more talented people. Instead of anonymous idiots with spray cans in the middle of the night, you will see talented artists doing their thing in the middle of the day (which is fascinating to watch, by the way)… and I think we can agree that an artist who is watched by a crowd while he works is highly unlikely to be putting up swastikas. Come on, Elmira, we have an opportunity here. We built a skate park to keep ‘those pesky skateboarders’ off the streets and give them a place to go – do the same with street art, and watch what happens. You may actually like what you see.
Victor Daveikis| Elmira
SPORTS | 11
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
SPORTS Football / High school
not so great outdoorsman / STEVE GALEA
Lancer football program coming into its own A number of EDSS athletes are taking their game to the next level, competing at area universities
OPEN COUNTRY
Martin and Mitch Kernick both earned scholarships to play for the University of Waterloo Warriors in recent years. Next year, last season’s star fullback and middle linebacker Alex Weber could join them, since he has been recruited by the school’s coaching staff. And the remarkable thing is, without Karn and the coaching staff’s efforts to start the program, those
Right about this time of year, most outdoorsmen are likely going to hear a horrible sentence uttered by their spouse. It is: “What would you rather do on your time off? Go trout fishing, turkey hunting or spend time shopping at the mall with me?” While this should be a no-brainer, I think it is a fundamentally unfair question. I mean, how do you decide between trout fishing and turkey hunting? I know one thing; you don’t ask the person who posed the original question. The good news, I suppose, is that you don’t have to choose. You can do both – and, if you answered the question honestly, will probably have more time on your hands than you bargained for too. Actually, a whole lot more. That’s why, this week, I’ve spent much time in my basement man cave getting my turkey gear ready and also preparing my fly fishing stuff for battle. When it comes to turkey gear, you need to go
football | 12
Galea | 12
Elmira District Secondary School alumni Mitch Kernick and Taz Martin play for the University of Waterloo football team, while Alex Weber – part of the Warriors’ 2015 recruitment class – could join them next season. scott barber In the decade since Elmira District Secondary School re-established its football program, interest in the sport has grown in leaps and bounds. From a fledgling team working to build up a foundation and attract the school’s best athletes, the Lancers senior squad now competes at the region’s highest level; and they’re getting closer and closer
to capturing their first Waterloo County Secondary School Athletics championship. With a number of WCSSAA finals and semi-final berths in the last number of years, it’s clear the school’s senior team boasts talented football players. Now, those athletes make the jump to the university ranks, playing Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) football at McMaster, the University of Waterloo and
Don’t let spring fun put the bite on you
Western. “The best thing is that the kids are really taking (football) seriously now,” said Steve Karn, the head coach of the senior team who played a major role in bringing the sport back to EDSS. “We see that they’re working out and doing the things outside of school that they need to do to be prepared for the football season; that’s really encouraging.” Being able to introduce
students to the game, which isn’t widely played at the youth level in the region, has been a rewarding experience, Karn added. “It has definitely sparked the interest for a lot of guys. And now we’ll see them start to play for the (Kitchener-Waterloo) Predators – a competitive, under-19 team that plays in the Ontario Football League – and even make it all the way to the university level.” EDSS standouts like Taz
[file photo]
Waterloo cyclist wins Steaming Nostril event scott barber Across farm lanes, gravel roads and pavement, through the mill trail and up the 69 steps leading to the Woolwich Township Arena in St. Jacobs, riders at last weekend’s Steaming Nostril cycling race were put to the test. Race day on March 29 was relatively mild at 3 degrees, although a strong breeze definitely played a
factor. In the end, Waterloo native Gaelen Merritt captured first prize, completing the 70 km course in just over two hours. “Early on in the race, during that first section heading west, there was a terrible crosswind,” Merritt explained after the race. “And so we (teammates with the Wheels of Bloor Cycling Club) were able to jump in every
move. And we’ve got Bruce (Bird) over there who is the world’s amateur champion, and he is a huge engine and Osmond (Bakker) is an excellent cycle cross rider on our team, and I’m sort of a mix in between the two. And so we were able to jump into a few moves and then the way bike racing works is, your teammates are up the road cycling | 14
Some 316 riders took part in the third annual Steaming Nostril cycling race Mar. 29 in St. Jacobs. [scot barber / the observer]
12 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
galea: As the weather improves, there will be a few conundrums for the avid outdoorsman from | 11
through a checklist. It includes turkey vest, camo clothing, facemask, gloves, call, shotgun, turkey loads, boots and decoys. Oh, and bug repellent. The trout list is similar. You need to take along waders, boots, fly rods, reels, lines, fishing vest, net, wading staff and full fly boxes. Oh, and bug repellent. If you see a recurring
theme, it is in the bug repellent. Most hunters and anglers will remember this without having to go through any list. If they don’t, however, it’s only because blood loss from biting insects last spring has affected their memory. Honestly, without a method of deterring biting insects in spring, it’d probably be better to choose spending time with your
spouse. Or at least, consider asking your spouse to come along turkey hunting or trout fishing to run the fly swatter. Again, it’s probably best not to say that aloud. Bug repellent is the only way, actually. The problem is there are a lot of opinions about bug repellents. There are folks who believe that repellent made of nothing less than pure deet – the kind that melts plastic – will do.
football: Young players advised to start
They’d rather risk toxic chemicals than death by a thousand bug bites. On the other end of the spectrum are folks who believe you should gently tap a black fly or mosquito on the shoulder while they are biting and try to reason with them. I fall somewhere in the middle. I’m not a fan of the old school chemicals because, though they work, they also
cause corrosive damage to much of my gear – and skin. On the other hand, I’m not much for coddling biting insects either. That’s why I use something that’s annoying enough to keep them away from me, but not so annoying as to melt my shotgun. But since I can’t expect a turkey to come in while I’m singing show tunes, I use a Thermacell Unit. I’m not advocating for
that product one way or another. Do your own research and decide whether you feel it is appropriate for you. The point here is whether you are in the turkey woods or trout stream you are going to have to come up with a solution. Or resign yourself to endure some real pain and suffering. I don’t know about you, but there is only so much mall shopping I can handle.
Bantam hericanes win LL championship
training early if they want to make the jump FROM | 11
players might never have played football to begin with, let alone received scholarships to play at the country’s highest level for amateur athletics. But even with a well coached and supported squad at EDSS, it’s still a tough transition to make the jump from high school ball to the CIS ranks. “Everything is a step up, whether it’s the size of the players and their skill level to the speed of the game,” Kernick explained. Martin concurred, “it’s the best of the best from high school; everyone is
bigger and stronger. You really have to work hard to compete at the next level.” To make that leap, both suggested that players aspiring to be CIS athletes work hard at both the junior and senior high school levels, while also spending time working out at the gym to build strength and speed. That way, you’ve got a fighting chance at getting recruited by the Predators, which is where players in the region go to really hone their skills. “I’d definitely recommend younger guys to play summer ball with the Preds,” Kernick said. “The
coaches at EDSS do a great job teaching the fundamentals of the sport. If you can add to that with some time playing on the Predators, it’ll go a long way.” Last season, the senior Lancers went 5-2 during the regular season, before injuries mounted and the squad fell in the WCSSA quarter-finals. Like all high school athletics, teams are constantly rebuilding as the top players age out and move on. But now that the groundwork has been done and interest in the sport is soaring, there’s a good chance the Lancers will stay competitive for years to come.
The Twin Centre Hericanes Bantam Local League team won the B-Pool championship on Mar. 29 with a 4-2 victory over the Kitchener Golden Hawks. Back row: Michelle Martin (trainer), Janessa Pretorius, Marissa Lebold, Olivia Bolender, Jayna MacDonald, Jeremy Szabo (assistant coach) Kira Schneider, Charlotte Birrell and Jody MacDonald (coach). Front row: Laura Martin, Emily Bishop, Grace Kalbfleisch and Nikki Beam. Missing: coaches Nicole Hendershot and Amanda Hendershot.
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SPORTS | 13
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
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14 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
A chance for Woolwich girls to try their hands at hockey Whitney Neilson A successful year for the Woolwich Girls Minor
Waterloo native Gaelen Merritt crossed the finish line first in this year’s Steaming Nostril race. Participants travelled through a number of Woolwich and Wellesley township roads before concluding with a climb of the long set of stairs leading up to the arena in St. Jacobs. [scott barber / the observer]
Cycling: Race looks to put
riders through their paces FROM | 11
in the breakaway, and everybody else has to chase and you just sit on their wheels and draft. And so it worked out that I was able to play off the other teams chasing (Bird and Bakker). And then as soon as they came within 40 metres of chasing them down I just jumped across and it ended up being just us three and (Matt Surch of Teckne Cycling Club).” Working as a team is a huge advantage in cycling. Having built a significant lead over the peloton – the main pack of riders – the Wheels of Bloor cyclists went to work to ensure one of their guys was able to outpace Surch. “We started working together and with about 30 km to go we started attacking (Surch),” Merritt explained. “He actually attacked us and opened up a gap first; he was so strong today. But we kind of just let him dangle out front to wear himself out, and when we turned right to head back (towards the finish at the arena) he started
to suffer in the crosswind. As soon as that happened I hit him (sprinted out front) and I was solo from there.” It wasn’t easy sailing down the homestretch, though, as Merritt hit an icy patch with too much speed and wiped out. His chain fell off in the crash and he lost upwards of 3040 seconds, but in a testament to his competitive nature, Merritt climbed back in the saddle and won the race. Surch finished second, 18 seconds behind, while Bakker placed third and Bird was fourth. In total, 316 riders took part in the third annual Steaming Nostril and the 35 km Runny Nose race. Put on by volunteers with the Waterloo Cycling Club and Cycle Waterloo, the event was a success, organizer Malcolm Steven said. They’ll be heading up three more local cycling races this summer, including the KW Classic in Hawkesville, the Kitchener Twilight Grand Prix and the Tour de Waterloo in St. Jacobs, all coming up in June.
Hockey Association teams may have sparked some interest in the sport for local girls, and the annual Come and Try Girls Hockey event would be the perfect venue to see what it’s all about. Now in its fifth year, Woolwich Wild scheduler Jacinta Faries says the idea is to let newcomers try hockey for free with girls and coaches who’ve loved the sport for years. “It’s been pretty successful in the past,” Faries said. “We’ve had a fair number of girls come out and quite a few of them have ended up signing up with girls hockey. It gives them a chance to try it out. It also gives the parents a chance to ask questions. We always have executive members there that can respond to any questions they might have.” They had about 20 participants come out to try it last year, which she says is fairly consistent, except for the first year. A rookie coach and the coach for Atom and PeeWee will be on hand to help the girls learn the basics. They’ll do some skating and hockey drills that they’d normally do in a practice and end with a mini-scrimmage.
Olivia Weiss, Peyton Gaudet and Kylie Rayfield will be moving up to the Novice level next season, as part of the Woolwich Girls Minor Hockey Association, which is holding a Come and Try Girls Hockey event on Apr. 18. [whitney neilson / the observer] “Especially for the younger ones, some of them need some help if they’re not that strong a skater,” Faries said. “It gives a sense of what it’s like to play in a game. Even for the younger ones they like that. A lot of the time just the excitement of actually having a stick in your hand and a puck they can hit on the ice, they like that.” Girls are asked to bring skates, a CSA-approved helmet with facemask, gloves and a stick, but if not they can likely be provided. Some equipment is usually donated for the event. But ideally, girls should have their own skates, which are harder to fit. One question that comes up quite a bit from parents is the difference between
girls’ and boys’ hockey. Once they learn there’s no body checking in girls’ hockey, they’re relieved. Some have questions about equipment, practice times, and game times, which members of the executive will be on hand to answer. The event started because coaches kept hearing of girls interested in giving the sport a try. “We actually had a lot of requests from parents of some of the younger girls, they had friends that wanted to try hockey and could they bring their friends out to a practice,” Faries said. “The first year was amazing. We had about 60 girls come out. I think there was the untapped potential of people who just hadn’t tried it.”
a golden weekend
the score
Woolwich Wildcats
Novice: LL# 1 March 24 vs Paris Home: 5 Visitor: 3 Goals: Josh Uhrig (2), Owen Tettman, Brienne Brezynskie, Dawson Brubacher Assists: Brienne Brezynskie, Andrew Snyder, Connor Haley Brandon Fishman, Patrick McCarthy, Owen Tettman March 26 vs Plattsville Home: 5 Visitor: 5 Goals: Josh Uhrig (3), Ben Hibbard, Ethan Adams Assists: Owen Tettman (2), Brandon Fishman, Ryan Scheifele, Patrick McCarthy, Caelan Haley March 28 vs Paris Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Dawson Brubacher Assists: Benn Hibbard, Andrew Snyder March 29 vs Paris Home: 2 Visitor: 5 Goals: Josh Uhrig (2)
She says this event is helpful because kids often are interested in trying lots of different sport and activities, but once they give it a shot they might not like it and want to play all season. For others, it helps them nail down which sports they’d like to stick with. “It’s kind of nice because you see a lot of the little ones come off the ice just beaming,” Faries said. “The parents are saying ‘oh yeah we’re signing up.’ It’s nice to see it kind of firmed it up for the parents and the child as well.” The event runs April 18 at 2 p.m. at the WMC and is free for girls from four to 12. For more information or to request equipment contact Faries at jfaries@rogers.com or 519-669-8625.
Assists: Patrick McCarthy
Novice: LL# 3 March 23 vs Woolwich LL# 4 Home (LL# 3): 5 Visitor (LL# 4): 4 Goals: Tyson Bauman, Riley Dettweiler (4) Assists: Tyson Bauman, Evan Woods March 25 vs Woolwich LL# 4 Home (LL# 3): 3 Visitor (LL# 4): 2 Goals: Evan Woods, Tyson Bauman, Riley Dettweiler
Novice: AE March 21 vs Orangeville Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Preston Hackert, Daniel Kochut, Jake Patterson Assists: Owen Weber March 22 vs Orangeville Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Jack Rozema, Kane Kruschat Assists: Owen Weber (2), Kane Kruschat
Minor Atom: A March 21 vs Milton Home: 2 Visitor: 4 Goals: Isaiah Reitzel, Ethan Bickerton Assists: Sam Hacock
Midget LL# 1 March 24 vs Beverly Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Dylan Arndt (2), Isaac Fishbein Assists: Jacob Cornwall, Brodie Keen, Nick Berlet March 29 vs Beverly Home: 1 Visitor: 0 Goals: Dylan Arndt Assists: Dylan Smith, Troy Nechanicky Shutout: Kyle Ropp
Home: 0 Visitor: 2 March 29 vs Ayr Home: 2 Visitor: 0 Goals: Benton Weber (2)
Midget: LL# 2
Midget: LL# 3
March 27 vs Ayr Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Alex Metzger (2), Benton Webe6 Assists: Benton Weber, Ryan Diemert, Nathan Horst, Adam Elliott March 28 vs Ayr
The Twin Centre Midget Hericanes last weekend captured the division title in the Kitchener Girls Local League. Front row: Leah Gloin, Cassidy Pearce, Sally Draper, Leah Sebben, Sadie Richmond, Riley Barnhardt. Second row: Roxanne Ratthe, Hope Richmond, Carly Bender, Courtney Rose, Stephanie Ringrose, Elena McKee. Third row: Peter Draper (coach), Rick Pearce (goalie trainer), Emma Banbury, Haley Burton, Richmond (assistant coach). Back row: Gayle Draper (trainer), Steph Rose (trainer), Cal McKee (assistant coach).
March 27 vs Tavistock Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Luke Charter, Luke Decorte March 30 vs Tavistock Home: 6 Visitor: 3 Goals: Luke Decorte, Connor Runstedler, Blake
Doerbecker, Jordon Luis (2), Liam Dickson Assists: Joseph Hanley, Nick Campegnolo, Luke Charter (2), Blake Doerbecker, Mitch Rempel (2)
Woolwich Wild
PeeWee: BB March 29 vs Guelph Home: 2 Visitor: 0 Goals: Maggie Sargent, Cassidy Moser
Assists: Hannah Carr, Alana Bauman, Abigail Burkholder, Delaney Douglas Shutout: Cailyn Wilkie
Bantam: LL March 26 vs Waterloo Home: 4 Visitor: 0 Goals: Jade Lipczynski (2), Mary MacKenzie (2) Assists: Jade Lipczynski, Mary MacKenzie, Holly Faries Shutout: Brianna Fleming
VENTURE | 15
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
Venture food for thought/ Food Owen roberts owen Roberts
Changes / following the merger
Research results are in every home
Making a transition at the top Following last year’s merger with Simpson Print, Tony Denison name president as Martin Johanns is ready to step back a little from the day-to-day of his Bloomingdale operation Whitney Neilson From six to 60 employees, Tony Denison has seen his career in the printing industry grow leaps and bounds in its 26-year-span. Previously the co-owner of Denison Print in Breslau with his brother, it was announced this week he’ll preside over Bloomingdale’s Simpson Print as president. Martin Johanns remains the owner and chairperson of the company. The two merged businesses in 2014. “When Martin bought Denison Print, he hoped that that would happen,” Denison said. “For the last year I’ve been here as a salesperson, making sure that my clients came across and learning about the business.” Denison and his brother opened Denison Print in Kitchener in 1987. They grew the business and then moved it to Breslau in 1994. They bought the building there, used about half of it, and over the course of 10 years they expanded to require the whole building. He says they learned the business just by being in it. “It was the ’80s and printing was a very profitable business,” Denison said. “That was before the Macintosh computer and, actually, desktop computers were just kind of new at the time. It was with desktop computers and Apple computers that sort of changed the printing industry quite a bit. So we got into it just before that only to find out this was not as easy a business as we thought it was going to be.”
Combining the two companies last year meant Denison was able to learn from the expertise of a larger company, like Simpson, which creates products for companies across North America. They offer screen, lithographic and digital printing. “Denison Print was quite a different kind of printer than Simpson Print,” Denison said. “Simpson Print needs those accounts like Walmart. Denison Print couldn’t even manage that kind of an account. We didn’t have the equipment or depth of knowledge. We were looking more for the catalogues and the letterheads and the envelopes, so our market was quite local.” He said Denison Print made their name known in the region by sponsoring events and getting involved in the community. Some of the high profile clients Simpson has include Home Hardware, Coles, and Walmart. “We can be more creative,” Denison said. “You can go after target markets or vertical markets or horizontal markets. Different people can do different things and we are very much a team. I think that’s my favourite part. The size of the organization gives me access to depth of knowledge that I’ve never been able to access.” Where they’re limited to a certain sheet size for lithographic printing, they can print on up to four feet by eight feet for screen printing. This means they’re able to do graphics for things like
FIELD NOTES
joining with Simpson, they absorbed four other companies. But now, he’s ready for the challenge of president. “Being in sales I just dealt with my own clients and that’s all I needed to think about, really,” Denison said. “As president I need to be aware of all facets of the company and I’m sales manager as well. My focus really is to build the business, sales-wise. In that way it’s kind of the same, but it’s
Each day of the year, governments see before them the results of the research they’ve funded, in the homes of every Canadian. Much of that funding goes to work behind the scenes, in labs, studios and fields for example, which most people don’t see. But still, they get it. They know at some level the things that surround them, bring them joy and bring them nourishment are connected to research, and that research is basically a human endeavor that leans heavily on government support. Despite all kinds of competing interests for government money, for the most part in this country, there’s a broad culture of research support. That culture was clear this week during what the Council of Ontario Universities deemed Research Week, when the contributions of those who’ve dedicated themselves to making our lives better, brighter and fuller was recognized. One of the most vivid examples of our province’s broad support for research took place in Guelph Tuesday evening. There, sciences of all kinds converged during a presentation at the sparkling Civic Museum, as part of a University of Guelph-led event called
printing | 16
Roberts | 16
Martin Johanns is stepping back from Simpson Print, where Tony Denison will now run the show as president, the latest step in his 26 years in the print business. [whitney neilson / the observer] vending machines or trade show banners. “Signs, floor graphics, window clings, posters any printing that you see in a retail store is done by a company like ours,” Denison said. This is only one of the major changes he’s seen in his time in the print industry. Back in the ’80s you could buy a press for $10,000 or so and set up shop in your garage. Now a press runs in the multi-million dollars figure, and there’s a lot more to know.
“If you had a press and a cutter and a folder you could do just about anything,” Denison said. “Now technology really drives the business. Files supplied by clients, there’s no film anymore.” This is why a lot of smaller print shops are closing up. They don’t have the capital to invest in the kind of equipment to compete with large, established printers. He says there’s significant consolidation going on in the industry. Take Denison Print for example. Before
Visit Martin’s:
16 | VENTURE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
ROBERTS: Research plays a vital role in bringing food to the table printing: Denison looking from | 15
Why Research Matters. Over the course of more than two hours, five University of Guelph researchers explained how their activities were “game changing,” a term the provincial council had challenged them to focus on. And they certainly did. Veteran atmospheric control researcher Mike Dixon explained how his lab was developing food plants such as tomatoes that could be grown in space ships headed for Mars. He’s a world leader in this field, part of a global effort to develop a better understanding of our solar system. The lessons learned in his lab come from years of developing better terres-
trial greenhouse environments, which are likewise controlled by humans. And the knowledge he gains about how to coax the most out of a plant with the least amount of essential inputs such as water will give Canadian greenhouse producers a leg up. Dixon needs some pretty sophisticated equipment to succeed – in some cases, equipment that hasn’t even been manufactured yet, and exists only as an idea in his head. That’s where artist Christian Giroux and engineer John Phillips come in. Accomplished in their own fields, they work together in what’s called a haptic (touch) lab at the university, interpreting ideas from researchers such as Dixon and, using their artistic and
engineering skills and a revolutionary 3-D printer, turning ideas into products. They’ve worked with Dixon to create one-off items that he couldn’t get anywhere else. And finally, bringing it all back home at the museum event were researchers David Ma and Jess Haines, who are leading what is destined to be a groundbreaking study in family health. They’ve received support to keep track of, and promote, the wellness of up to 3,000 Guelph area families in a cross-section of social and economic conditions, for the next 20 years. Their goal is to introduce best health practices to these families, see how they fare in the long run and offer it as a model for
forward to his expaned role
others to follow. They’re looking for new participants now. Those who fund their research know we need people to be healthy mentally and physically if they’re going to create and contribute, make life fuller, start new businesses and be leaders. The provincial council is also sponsoring a contest for Ontarians to vote for what they consider the top innovation from universities in the past 100 years. Fifty innovations have been put forward; five are from the University of Guelph, which is an impressive percentage given that Ontario has more than 20 universities. Research happens 24-7. It never stops. It’s great to see it and its many contributions recognized.
FROM | 15
a little broader scope now because I’ve got seven sales reps to work with.” He knows he’s got some big shoes to fill, but having a long history with Johanns helps. He actually bought the Denison Print building in Breslau from Johanns in ’94. Johanns’ daughter is also married to Denison’s high school best friend. “The number of ways we’re connected is amazing,” Denison said. As for future growth, Denison says Johanns is making plans to grow out the back of the 50,000-square-foot shop. Denison’s looking forward to the challenge of doing this. When he started in the business you could
grow without even trying, there was such a demand for printed goods. “What are your target markets, how are you going to approach them? You have to sell strategically,” Denison said. “That’s the fun of being in a company this size.” His other goal with running Simpson Print is to continue the local traditions of Denison Print, along with the national work Simpson has become known for. “We are committed to the community and committed to Waterloo Region,” Denison said. “Denison Print sponsored events and Simpson Print has been continuing on with all that. That’s very much one of our objectives to continue supporting the community.”
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THE ARTS | 17
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
THE ARTS on stage / live theatre
Wellesley explores The Art of Murder Small cast, performance space makes for a very intimate play in Theatre Wellesley’s latest production Whitney Neilson Wellesley Public Library will be the scene of murder and mystery this month with Theatre Wellesley’s spring production, The Art of Murder. The Joe DiPietro play follows renowned painter Jack Brooks, played by Dave McNorgan, who waits for his art dealer to arrive, in order to murder him. But everything is not as it seems. “When I started perusing the script it was a pageturner,” McNorgan said. “I couldn’t put it down until I figured out what on Earth was going on here.” He says it’s a very intimate setting and the audience will feel like they’re in Jack and Annie Brooks’ living room, where the play takes place. With a cast of just four, and a maximum audience of 30 people, the play has unique hurdles. Annie Brooks is played by Lori Hoelscher, Vincent Cummings by Al Cook, Kate, the Irish Maid by Jamie McLean, and Allan Strong is directing. “The challenge for the actors is to maintain that fourth wall,” McNorgan said. “We continue acting. We don’t try to turn it into a back and forth performance with the audience.” Stepping away from the usual family friendly play that Theatre Wellesley puts on each fall, he said he wanted to use their spring production to look at more challenging scripts, where characters could develop with a little more meat.
Lori Hoelscher, Jamie McLean, Al Cook and Dave McNorgan will bring The Art of Murder to life this month at the Wellesley Public Library. “Smaller scripts can be more challenging, so we keep this at four characters or less and a script that doesn’t have to be comedy,” McNorgan said. “In fact this one will be murder mystery and it’s more of a drama. It’s got some dark comedy to it, but it’s more of a drama and a mystery. The mood swings from beginning to end.” To keep it affordable they perform in the upper room of the Wellesley Public Library, which is usually their rehearsal space. They set
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
year we performed four shows just over one weekend, but we thought so much work goes into this we want to at least spread it over two weekends,” McNorgan said. They picked their cast in January and have been rehearsing since February. He said this play won’t be suitable for young children, but for teenagers and up. “That’s the good part about doing a smaller show in the spring is we can pick something that’s not necessarily family-oriented,”
Dr. Rebecca Cannon
Dr. Stephen Morris
B.A., N.D.
DOCTOR OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
Optometrist PHONE:
up a full-size set there but can only fit 30 chairs. And he says it worked for them last year to have that kind of closeness in the setting. “The payoff has been ... we get some more challenging roles for our actors to work on. It’s been that, for sure,” McNorgan said. Audience-wise, with 30 people a show they can cover their costs because over six shows they’re getting as many people in as they’d get in a couple shows. “On the other hand last
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Quality care available for all ages and all health conditions.
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McNorgan said. “We’ve taken out a lot of the swearing that just wouldn’t be suitable for any audience, no matter what age. But some of the foul language stayed.” He says he’s got a number of plays picked out for spring productions for probably the next five years. They’ll range from heartwarming stories to dramas, or a mix of both. The last show, on April 19 is already sold out. He adds they’ve got several matinees, which seem to work
well in Wellesley. Regardless of which time people choose to come, they are sure to be entertained. “They’re guaranteed to be on the edge of their seats until the end of the play,” McNorgan said. The Art of Murder plays upstairs at the Wellesley Public Library on April 10 (8 p.m.), April 11 and 12 (2 p.m.), April 17 (8 p.m.), and April 18 and 19 (2 p.m.). Admission is $10 and space is limited. To reserve your tickets visit Pym’s Village Market or call 519-656-9886.
OUR POLICY — YOUR PROTECTION
LEE CLEMENS Registered Insurance Broker
HOME | AUTO | FARM | LIABILITY | COMMERCIAL
Elmira Insurance Brokers Limited
45 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519.669.5484 lee.elmirains@bellnet.ca
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THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
CLASSIFIED
classified deadline:
thursdays by 10am Help Wanted
HELP WANTED
Help wanted in bakery, Mennonite preferred. Hillcrest Home Baking. Call 519-669-1381.
Child Care Need Childcare this summer? 14 year old, prepared, responsible, active, great with children 2-10, Red Cross course, references available. Call or text 226751-3282.
Business Opportunity Investors Wanted for secured loans from 1 to 5 years for the purchase of Commercial Property and equipment. Interest of 10% will be paid monthly principal also required. Minimum $5000.00. 519-589-7547.
For Sale Spring Sale - Apr. 13 24th at Countryside Fabrics & Books. 7418 Rd. 116, RR#1, Linwood Ontario, N0B 2A0. 10% off on fabrics & sewing supplies, plus bargain boxes of fabrics at reduced prices. 5% off on books, stationery, pieced quilt tops, and consignment items. Open: Mon., Wed., & Fri 8:30 - 5:30. During sale only open - also Tues., & Thurs.
Farm Equipment JD 6125, 6150 Tractors & Bobcat S300 for rent. Available May 1/15 - Oct. 15/15. Daily, weekly, monthly prices. 519-591-1274.
HELP WANTED
Project Manager EFS-plastics Inc. is offering an exciting full time opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer in a Project Management position. Our fast growing business is located in Listowel, ON. As a market leader in post-consumer plastic recycling, we are continuously developing and expanding new processing systems in Canada as well as in the US. As part of our engineering team, your position will include the Project Management of automated processing systems. You need to be self-driven and able to handle stressful situations. This position will include travelling to the US. A sound knowledge of SolidWorks, AutoCAD and MS Project as well as min. 5 year experience in Project Management is essential. Responsibilities: • Develop Process Flow Diagrams • Develop Equipment Specifications • Develop timelines • Budget planning and monitoring • Schedule and supervise the fabrication of Processing Equipment • Schedule and supervise the installation of Processing Equipment / Lines • Report and work closely with Management Requirements: • Mechanical Engineering degree • 5 years’ experience in mechanical design • 5 years’ experience in Project Management • Solid Works, AutoCAD, MS-Project and MS-Office applications • Highly motivated • Hands on • Ability to plan and organize work independently • Ability to lead a team Qualified candidates are encouraged to send their resume to jobs@efs-plastics.ca
Pets FREE - healthy barn cats. Call 519-669-1967.
HELP WANTED
EXPERIENCED Framers Needed Pro-Mar Construction is looking to hire experienced framers in residential framing to join our crews. Full time. Mon-Fri. Good pay for experienced workers. Benefits. Most work is in Guelph or Tri-cities. Reliable transportation required. Please email resume to promar04@gmail.com or call Wayne at 519-240-1363
HOW TO REACH US
RENTALS
Wanted Wanted - Someone able to repair antique tube radio. Reasonable cost. Call 519699-4461. Wanted to Rent Vehicle bay for small buses to do interior vehicle cleaning in Elmira or close proximity. Any size over 1000 sq feet would be considered. Must have minimum 12’ overhead door. Must have water supply. Contact Cheryl at 519-998-2290.
Rentals Bright, Spacious 1bedroom apartment in quiet, adult building. Seeking non-smoking mature tenant. Close to downtown. Laundry, parking. Phone 519-6693423.
Elmira - 2 bedroom townhouse. Please, no smoking, no pets. $925 plus utilities. Suitable for quiet tenants. Call 519-580-6683. One Parking space included. Enjoy Lake Huron with your family this summer at our water-view cottage on 5 acres of trees. Now booking for the summer. Just before Pike Bay, 25 min north of Sauble Beach. Details at www.rentmycottage.snappages.com Garage and car lot for rent in Bloomingdale. Call Jerry at 519-213-1123 or cell 519-581-8859. Looking to rent 2-3 bedroom home. Non smokers. 519-669-9343.
auctions
DO YOU WANT?
39th Annual Spring Vehicle, Turf & Landscaping Auction
Turf - Municipal Auction to be held at
Breslau Airport Road Auction Complex
A wide range of jobs? Welding? Millwrighting? Assembly? Blueprint reading? Inside work? Outside work? Responsibility?
5100 Fountain St., North, Breslau (Kitchener) th
Sat April 11 9:00 a.m. 2006 Ihc 7600 TA Dump & Plow 2013 Ford TAuRuS AWD 2011 chev TAhoE RWD 8+03/08 Ford/Dodge/GMc/Diesel Dumps 2008 Jeep compass 4x4 2008 chev 3500 Diesel Amb 2008 GMc 3500hD 4x4 Plow/Sander 4 - 2006 caravan cargo Vans 2004 Ford E350 Diesel cube Van 3 - 02/04 Ford/chev Pickups
Then you should be working for us.
Skid Steer loaders * Trencher * Toro 580D Wing Mower 13 - JD, ExMark, MF, husqvarna, Kubota Tractor & mowers 4 - JD Triplex & Greens Mowers * Golf carts * Top Dresser 35+ Mowers * 5 - W/b Mowers * leaf Vacs * Post hole Auger Aquacide * chainsaws * Snowblowers * Stump Grinder 12+ Stihl concrete Saws * 14+ blowers * overseeder * Rollers 10+ Generators * 30+ line & hedge Trimmers * Edgers Plate Tampers * Gas brick Saw * 20+ New Diamond blades De-Thatcher * Tillers * Set of (9 hole) Washers, Flags, etc Aerators * Trailers * Shop & 3hp/PTo/Accessory Equip
WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Fitter Welder
(minimum 3 years experience) (must be able to pass CWB welding test, G.M.A.W. F.C.A.W.)
Mig Welder
(must be able to pass CWB welding test, G.M.A.W. F.C.A.W.) Are you capable of: • Layout of plate and sheet metal from blueprints • Able to work with minimum supervision • High quality workmanship • Regular and punctual attendance • Working day shift or night shift WE OFFER: • Competitive wages • Company uniforms • Pension plan • Company benefits
Auctioneer’s Notes - There will be TWO Auction Rings MORE UNITS ARRIVING DAILY!!
No Buyer’s Premium!!! VIEWING: Friday April 10th, 2015 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm TERMS: $500 Deposit on Each Major Items, or as announced
M.R. Jutzi & Co
PRoFESSIoNAlS IN ThE oRDERly lIquIDATIoN AND APPRAISAlS oF coMMERcIAl, INDuSTRIAl, coNSTRucTIoN, MuNIcIPAl EquIPMENT & VEhIclES 5100 FouNTAIN ST. NoRTh, bRESlAu, oNTARIo, N0b 1M0
www.mrjutzi.ca
HELP WANTED
Apply in person between 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. OR fax or e-mail resume to:
M&G MILLWRIGHTS LIMITED R.R.#1 Reg. Rd. 19
(1540 Floradale Rd.) Elmira, ON
519-669-5105
COMMERCIAL ROAD SERVICE & TIRE TECHNICIANS We are looking for experienced commercial road service tire technicians and experienced tire technicians in all aspects of passenger and light truck service. Strong work ethic, valid class G license and clean abstract a must. Fax resumé to: 519-664-3406 or Email: hr@basttire.com
fax: 519-669-1450 email: bob@mgmill.com We thank all applicants for their interest but only those considered will be contacted.
RENTALS Moorefield - large two bedroom apartment, furnished or unfurnished, laundry facilities, parking, electric heat, cable TV. No pets, adult building. References. $855.00 Inclusive. First & Last. 519-638-3013.
519-648-2111
Trades & Services An Experienced Certified Electrician will do repairs, small jobs and service work. Call 519-669-8129. CONTINUED ON PG. 24
HELP WANTED
Elmira Stove Works We are looking for an energetic, efficient and friendly person for our office. Sales, order processing, and office duties being the key focus. This is a Monday to Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. full-time position, with benefits. Please contact Tom at 519-669-1281.
Phone 519.669.5790 | toll free 1.888.966.5942 | fax 519.669.5753 | online www.observerxtra.com
ADDRESS 20-b ARTHUR ST. N., ELMIRA, ON n3b 1Z9
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CLASSIFIED | 19
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
TIRE
THOMPSON’S
Complete Collision Service
WHERE TIRES
general SERVICES
AUTO CLINIC
Auto Tech Inc.
ARE A
SPECIALTY, NOT A SIDE LINE.
Providing the latest technology to repair your vehicle with accuracy and confidence.
101 Bonnie Crescent, Elmira, ON N3B 3G2
519.669.8330
Farm • Auto • Truck Industrial On-The-Farm Service
FAX: 519.669.3210
35 Howard Ave., Elmira
AFTER HOURS
SHELLY & SCOTT TAYLOR 28 Pintail Drive, Elmira, ON, N3B 3G9
519-669-0003
taylortax@rogers.com
Accredited Test & Repair Facility
519-669-4400
519-669-7652
30 ORIOLE PKWY. E., ELMIRA www.thompsonsauto.ca
519.669.8917
519-669-3232
21 Industrial Dr. Elmira
...& SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING
gENERAL SERVICES
MUSIC-LOVER GIFT ALERT!
Various sizes & rates
’s 60’s / 70
HIGH SCHOOSL BAND
GOSPEL
ROCK
MUSIC TRANSFERS FROM LPs, 45s, 78s, CASSETTES TO CD
CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call
COUNTR Y
•Ratches, Hooks, Straps, Webbing etc. •Canvas, Vinyl, Polyester, Acrylic Fabrics
Your favourite albums get a whole new life on CD after we clean up the clicks, pops and surface noise.
519-669-4964
Boat Covers | Air Conditioner Covers | Small Tarps Storage Covers | BBQ Covers | Awnings & Canopies Replacement Gazebo Tops | Golf Cart Enclosures & Covers
WOOD GAS PELLET
CONESTOGO
519.595.4830
MORE INFO | 519.669.0541
100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA
General Repairs 180 St. Andrew St. W.
519-664-3800
6376 Perth Rd. 121 Poole, ON
EMAIL: vinylp2cd@gmail.com
FERGUS
1871 Sawmill Road
519-843-4845
877-664-3802
888-871-4592
www.fergusfireplace.com
general SERVICES “25 years in Business”
BIKE SALES & REPAIRS
RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING EFFORT!
PROFESSIONAL BIKE MECHANIC ON STAFF
$275.00/
20
$
pump
OUT
+H.S.T.
(1800 Gallon Residential) Not valid with any other special offers or coupons.
PARTS EXTRA
519-648-3004
22 Church St. W., Elmira
Tel:519-669-5537
or
800-232-6396
www.biobobs.com
STORE HOURS: M-W: 8-6, TH-F 8-8, SAT, 8-6, SUN 12-5
general SERVICES BAUMAN PIANO
SERVICES TUNING & REPAIRS
WE FIX SLIPPERY WHEN WET
Propellant 49 The best ice and snow melter on the Planet. Safe for trees and plants, will not rust, corrode or stain. No residue. Continues past -50°C and keeps melting 36 hours after being applied.
Craftsman Member O.G.P.T. Inc NEW PHONE NUMBER
519-880-9165
(519) 569-0772 • Commercial & Industrial General Contracting • Specializing in Concrete Work & Excavation • Retaining Walls
info@trappconstruction.ca www.trappconstruction.ca
• • • •
Stamped Coloured Concrete Demolition Bin Service Machine Bases
Concrete Breaking & Removal
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
HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
BATHTUBS, CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN TILE BRICK, TERRAZZO AND OTHER SURFACES GUARANTEED, INVISIBLE, AND COST EFFECTIVE
JAMES BAUMAN
CONSTRUCTION INC.
For more info email noslipperyfloors@gmail.com or call 519-588-7413 | theredwolfcompany.com
WEICKERT& MEIROWSKI Concrete Foundations Limited
YES... WE DO RESIDENTIAL WORK!
6982 Millbank Main St., Millbank 519-595-2053 • 519-664-2914
space for rent
Buy your bike from us and get a FREE annual inspection!
Ltd.
RESIDENTIAL & AGRICULTURAL
Driveways • Sidewalks • Curbs • Barn Renovations Finished Floors • Retaining Walls • Short Walls Decorative/Stamped and coloured concrete www.marwilconcrete.ca
519-577-0370
The Right Window Treatment Can
Save you
Blinds by Elite or Mera
In home consultations Wide selection of styles & fabrics 1011 Industrial Crescent St. Clements | 519-699-5411 www.LetUsFloorYou.ca
FREE
INSTALLATION When you buy 3 or more
Hours: M-F 8:30 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 - 3:00
Evenings By Appointment
space for rent
HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
Wet Basement? Foundation Leaks Fixed Permanently Free Estimate Flexible Resin Injection • Professional Service • •
- Design and build -
AGRICULTURAL | RESIDENTIAL FRAMING • ROOFING RENOVATIONS • EAVESTROUGHS
Wayne Martin | 519-504-2016 darwayconstruction@icloud.com | Alma, ON
Interior and Exterior Drainage Systems • Sump Pump Installation •
We Build our Reputation on your Foundation (519) 746 6611 1 866 449 2228 visit us at: thecrackspecialists.com
20 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY Home improvement SERVICES COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
ST. JACOBS
GLASS SYSTEMS INC.
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
1553 King St. N., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0
• Store Fronts • Thermopanes • Mirrors • Screen Repair • Replacement Windows • Shower Enclosures • Sash Repair
1 Union Street, Elmira
TEL:
ehc@hotmail.ca (519)-669-4600
519-664-1202 / 519-778-6104 FAX: 519 664-2759 • 24 Hour Emergency Service
Steve Co.
Plumbing and Maintenance Inc.
John Schaefer Painting FREE ESTIMATES Interior/exterior Painting, Wallpapering & Plaster | drywall Repairs
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
For all your Plumbing Needs. 24 HOUR SERVICE Steve Jacobi
ELMIRA
519-669-3652
NOW ACCEPTING VISA OR MASTERCARD
AMOS R O O F I N G
INC
IRA HOME COMFORT M L E (519) 669-4600
• Specializing in residential re-roofs • Repairs • Churches A Family owned and operated business serving KW, Elmira and surrounding area for over 35 years.
WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED
CALL JAYME FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE.
519-669-2251
519.501.2405 | 519.698.2114
36 Hampton St., Elmira
In Business since 1973 • Fully Insured
Home improvement SERVICES
KENJI ORITA • Custom Kitchens • Custom Furniture • Domestic & Exotic Woods
226-868-8131 oritakenji@gmail.com 20B ARTHUR ST. N., ELMIRA
• Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Randy Weber ECRA/ESA Licence # 7000605
519.669.1462 Fax: 519.669.9970 Tel:
WINDOW FASHIONS
space for rent
100% SUPERIOR QUALITY CUSTOM WOODWORKING
Free in-home Consultations. Call someone you can trust. Call Cindy. A Brand You Can Trust 22 Church St. W., Elmira
Tel: 519-669-5537
18 Kingfisher Dr., Elmira
STORE HOURS: M-F: 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5
Outdoor services
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 • Snow Plowing & Ice Control • Tractor Snowblowing
Call Jeff Basler, Owner/Operator, today 519.669.9081 mobile: 519.505.0985 | fax: 519.669.9819 | ever-green@sympatico.ca
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 27 Brookemead, St, Elmira P: 519-669-1188 | F: 519-669-9369
kdetweiler@rogers.com
KEVIN DETWEILER
OWNER-OPERATOR
PRINTING | MAILING | SIGNAGE SERVICES
INTRODUCING OUR PIC BUCKET For digging through frozen ground!
• • • •
Trenching Excavating Back fill compaction plate Laneway sanding available
Murray & Daniel Shantz
ALMA, ONTARIO | PHONE: 519.846.5427
CLASSIFIED | 21
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
HAPPY EASTER! Apr. 4th, 1-3pm 95 Muscovey Dr., Elmira OPEN HOUSE Saturday
A DONATION will be made with every home bought or sold by Alli, Paul or Sue.
$379,900 NEW LISTING INVITING AND IMPRESSIVE!
Elmira - This inviting and impressive, 3 bedroom home features a fully finished basement, carpet free main floor, 2 gas fireplaces, crown moulding, fully fenced yard, A/C, C-Vac, double car garage, most appliances included. A truly beautiful home! MLS 1518283.
NEW LISTING
$449,900 SHOWS AAA!
Elmira - Gorgeous custom built home with many executive features. Welcoming front foyer, ceramic & hardwood floors, bright kitchen with a large island w/breakfast bar overlooking the dining area with a walkout to the deck, fenced yard, shed & lovely flower bed. Great main floor living room w/gas fireplace. Huge master bedroom boasts a 5pc ensuite & walk-in. Entertain in this dream basement with gas fireplace and wet bar. MLS 1518282.
NEW LISTING
$324,900 CENTURY CHARM
Elmira - Century home on huge lot. All the character with modern conveniences. Updates include: windows, furnace, bathrooms, kitchen, doors, roof, flooring and more. Cool built-in closets! Fully updated & ready for you! MLS 1521049.
Alli Bauman Paul Martin Sue Wideman SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
519-577-6248 allibauman@rogers.com
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
519-503-9533 paul@remaxsolidgold.biz
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
226-750-9332
suewidemanhomes@gmail.com
Kitchener - Shows AAA! This beautiful open concept home features a large foyer, separate dining room, main floor laundry, kitchen open to living room, and dinette with a walk out to the deck, open stair case leading to an open office area, and master bedroom with ensuite incl. his & hers walk in closets. Located close to shopping and the University. MLS 1521101.
Moorefield - This immaculate home has a bright kitchen open to the dining area and living room with vaulted ceilings and a walk out to the back deck with a view. Main floor laundry with indoor access from the garage. The basement has been finished with a rec room & 2 additional bedrooms as well as a large 3 piece bathroom. This home is a must see! Only 35 minutes from KW. MLS 1517957.
$474,000 BACKING ON WALKING TRAIL
$775,000 ENJOY THE VIEW
Independently Owned and Operated
3 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519-669-5426
$239,900 BEAUTIFUL VIEW
$464,000 GREAT LOCATION
Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage
SO LD
NEW LISTING
Heidelberg - Exceptional Custom Built 5 bedroom home boasts a 1500 square foot triple car garage with a drive through to the back yard. Situated on a 133 x 165 foot lot with a beautiful country view, enjoy relaxing on your back deck around the pool. MLS 1517249.
Elmira - You'll be impressed with this upgraded open concept Verdone home. With a gourmet kitchen open to the dinette, and family room with a gas fireplace. Walk out into the private back yard, backing on green space and enjoy the 4 year old salt water heated pool. This home also has a kitchenette in the finished basement with a living area, 3 piece bath, and bedroom with walk in closet. Perfect for an in-law suite. MLS 1517611.
$475,000 OPEN CONCEPT BUNGALOW
Elmira - Make yourself at home in this beautiful bungalow. The master bedroom boasts 2 closets in the dressing area into the ensuite bath. With wet bar, games area, and a projector included, this rec room was made for entertaining or simply relaxing. MLS 1514312.
$449,900 QUIET CRESCENT
Elmira - What more could you want? In ground pool, Bungalow, Large lot, Beautiful view, Double car garage, Master ensuite & walk in closet, Main floor laundry. This home is a must see! MLS 1512120.
Thinking About Selling? Call today and book a
FREE
HOME EVALUATION.
$474,500 LIVE IN 1 AND RENT OUT 2!
Elmira - Live in this updated 3 bedroom home with an ensuite bathroom, main floor laundry, and attached garage with a low mortgage payment offset by the income of the other 2 units. With separate meters for the utilities and all appliances included, this well maintained property is ready for you and the renters that you choose to move in! MLS 1441079 & 1441072.
$569,000 SPACE FOR GROWING FAMILY
Hawkesville - This beautifully maintained 3000 sq foot home features the following updates: new hickory custom kitchen, all windows & exterior doors, newer roof, furnace & a/c. No upgrades required for years! Small town living at it's best. Minutes from KW. MLS 1517094.
$549,000 STORE FRONT IN ELMIRA
Elmira - With a 2000 sq foot office space, a 1 bedroom unit, and 2 bedroom unit, this downtown property could be your ideal investment! MLS 1442236.
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
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Building in Drayton where homes are affordable
CUSTOM QUALITY Single Family
Visit our Model Home at:
Starting from
$350,900
42 Bedell Drive, Drayton Mon & Tues. 1-7pm | Sat. & Sun. 1-4:30pm | or by appointment
226-818-5311 | verdonehomes.com
22 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
HAPPY EASTER!
Bonnie Elmira Real Estate Services
Shanna
Brubacher
INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED, BROKERAGE
90 Earl Martin Dr., Unit 4, Elmira N3B 3L4
Rozema
BROKER OF RECORD
BROKER
Bus: 519-669-3192 Fax: 519-669-3322
® REALTY LTD., BROKERAGE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED
519.500.1865 (Direct)
Dale R. Keller
17 Church St. W., Elmira • 519.669.1544 (Business)
www.YourFamilyTeam.ca
Sales Representative
www.KellerSellsRealEstate.com | dale@kellersellsrealestate.com
DRAYTON RIDGE | FURNISHED MODEL
IMPRESSIVE 2 STOREY $349,900 ELMIRA Well
UPSCALE BUNGALOW TOWNHOMES
maintained 3 bdrm home, hardwood & ceramic flrs, cathedral ceiling, gas fireplace, walkout to deck, fenced yard and shed, master ensuite bathroom, upper floor laundry, double driveway, situated across from a park. MLS.
Priced From $322,900 − This 2nd phase is well underway, 3 bungalows and 2 bungalow lofts available, beautifully appointed, double car garage, hardwood / ceramic, gas FP, main floor master & laundry. EXCLUSIVE
2000 SQ.FT BUNGALOW
4 BEDROOM 2 STOREY $379,900 DRAYTON Family
$399,900
DRAYTON Just move in and enjoy! Superb condition, large inviting foyer, hardwood floors, extra wide hallways, huge eat in kitchen with granite counters, 2 gas fireplaces, main floor laundry with walkout to deck, double car garage. MLS.
home, 2100 SQ.FT, open concept main floor, kitchen with breakfast bar, granite counter tops, stainless appliances, walkout to deck, fenced yard & shed, large living room, main floor laundry, 3 bathrooms, double garage, triple driveway. MLS
TIME FOR YOUR FREE SPRING MARKET HOME VALUATION! CALL TODAY!
buying? Selling? or just looking?
WE HAVE the freshest local listings in the market. R.W. ThuR Real esTaTe lTd. 45 Arthur St. S., Elmira
BRad MaRTIN
Brokerage LET OUR 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU!
JulIe
TRaCeY
WIllIaMs Broker of record, heCKeNdORN Broker Sales rep. MVa residential res: 519.669.1068 res: 519.669.8629 Cell: 519.505.0627
519-669-2772 www.thurrealestate.com
Model Home | $371,900 Enjoy the covered deck out back this summer with walk out from both dining area and master bedroom. This bright open concept custom home by Verdone is sure to please the discriminating buyer looking for a bungalow on a generous sized lot .Gourmet kitchen and ceramic and hardwood floors. Other models and lots to choose from.MLS Call Dale.
Drayton | $359,000 A lot of house for the money. Large 4+1 bedroom, with walk-out finished basement, huge master and ensuite, separate detached insulated and wired workshop, above ground pool, large fenced yard and more. MLS Call Dale.
Worth a Look | Drayton | $489,000 For her - large 1/2 acre in town property with renovated 4 bdrm, 3 bth home, large front porch and rear deck, attached dble garage. For him - a detached dream workshop 2400 sq ft, chain hoist, hydraulic lift, air compressor and lines, insulated and heated, room for ALL your toys. MLS Call Dale.
Sale or Lease Elmira | $329,000 Commercial building, great exposure from 2 main streets, Arthur and Church, retail on main floor and large 2 bdrm upstairs. Upgraded and renovated 2011. Both up and down currently rented. Also available for lease. MLS Call Dale.
Take A Look Drayton | $319,000 Spacious open concept raised bungalow with cathedral ceiling, bright newer windows, a bright wide open rec. room, and many recent updates. Steps to school, medical centre, library, groceries, fitness gym. Fully fenced yard and walkout to deck. MLS. Call Dale.
Compare | $419,000
SOLD
Custom built bungalow on a large lot. Covered deck, 3 gas fireplaces, vaulted and coffered ceilings, wired for sound, hard wood and ceramic flooring, granite counters, arches, pillars, and much more. MLS Call Dale.
For info on these or any other real estate enquiries, Call Dale
Bert Martin Re/max Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., BROKER
Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
DIRECT: 519-572-2669 3 Arthur St. S. Elmira OFFICE: 519-669-5426
www.remaxsolidgold.biz
EMAIL: bert@remaxsolidgold.biz
NEW PRICE
$569,900 LOCATiOn! Spacious ‘family home’ nestled in the trees and overlooking farmland. Lots of windows facing south. Hdwd & ceramics on the main level. Open concept from lge. great room w/fireplace to ‘bump out’ dinette. Formal D.R. (or main flr. office). 4 baths. Fin rec. room, games room. Extra-deep dble. garage. A must see! MLS.
FREE Market Evaluation
$385,000 DEEP LOT – spotless 4 level backsplit offers lots of living space. Eat-in kitchen + din. room. Open concept to lower level family room w/large windows, gas fireplace & bar. 3 bdrms. 2 baths. Very well maintained. Lots of storage space! Mature trees in back yard. Concrete driveway. MLS.
$239,999 LinwOOD – 5 Bdrm. home on a Lge. lot – 66 x 165’. Main flr. master bdrm & 4 bdrms upstairs. L/R and D/R. Large kitchen PLUS office/pantry. Updated flooring, doors, windows and kitchen. New HWH (owned). Sliding dr.from kitchen to deck and back yard. Lots of house! MLS.
BEEF FARM
$2,450,000
148 ACrEs, just north of Alma. Newer barn (1995) w/room for approx. 325 head of cattle. Concrete den floor – former veal stable. TWO dwellings. 3 silos (one sealed) plus bunker silos. TMR mixer. Large machinery shed. Manure storage and liquid tank. Some systematic tile drains. MLS.
Spring iS juSt around the corner … we have buyers waiting!
CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET EVALUATION
ELMIRA CENTURY HOME! Many beautiful features in this 1888 home including 10’ ceilings main floor and 11’ ceilings on the second floor, original front door, pine flooring, nice foyer and staircase, two bathrooms, hot water heating. and stainless steel appliances. Unique detached double carport and beautiful exterior trim. MLS NEW PRICE $440,000. Call Bert to view. ELMIRA BUNGALOW! Brick home on a large lot located close to schools and amenities offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, possible in-law suite, finished basement, some hardwood and some windows replaced. MLS NEW PRICE $315,000. Call Bert to view. COMMERCIAL PROPERTY! One storey building in a great location in the down town core area. Great store front, natural light, lots of parking, air conditioned, storage space in basement , two bathrooms. Zoning allows numerous businesses. MLS. $267,500. Call Bert to View.
Your referrals are appreciated!
CLASSIFIED | 23
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
Family Album birthday
birthday
Happy 90th Birthday
Audrey Gaede
will celebrate her 90th Birthday April 11, 2015.
birthday
Happy 70th Birthday Mary Bauman
Happy 60th Birthday Donna!
The family of
Madalena Poole
Love and best wishes From Your Family
would like to wish our mom, grandma and great grandma a wonderful 80th birthday on April 5th.
BIRTHDAY
birth notice
Teenager at last!
Love the committee Susan, Bonnie and Lisa
stag & doe
stag & doe
Stag & Doe for
Stag & Doe For
Kelsey Hartman & Brad Kuchma
Happy 13th Birthday!
Happy birthday to our favorite 13 year old! May your teenage years be everything you expect them to be...and much less painful than they will actually be!
birthday
Proud parents Brad & Krysta Cronin, and grandparents Bill & Sue Cronin, Dave & Sue From and Ruth McCready would like to announce the safe arrival of
Brady David Cronin Born March 22nd at 12:29 am
Love Mom, Dad & Finn
We love you sweet boy
thank you
graduation
Kate Lichti & Phil Martin
Saturday April 11, 2015
8:00pm-1:00am St. Jacobs Community Centre 31 Parkside Dr, St Jacobs Tickets $10 at door
Friday, April 10, 2015 at St. Jacobs Community Centre 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. DJ, late lunch and great prizes For tickets call Ryan Weber 519-584-4600 or at the door. $10 per person
Food, Fun, DJ, Games, Prizes & More!
Linwood bLood donor cLinic
Thank You
Congratulations Jessica Shoemaker
To all my family, my family at Green Valley Health, and all my friends for the flowers and kind words to make my retirement memorable.
Give Blood ... to save lives.
Grandpa: Emergency blood transfusion. Sunday 11:00am
The Next Linwood Clinic:
Delores Reger
Friday, April 10th, 2015 from 2:30pm - 8:30pm
your notice here
at Linwood Community Centre 5279 Ament Line, Linwood, ON N0B 2A0
DEADLINE FOR FAMILY ALBUM IS WEDNESDAYS BY 5PM
on completing your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN). Love Brock, Bonnie & Randy and Family
Steed and Evans Ltd. Engineers and Contractors
Proud to support the community effort to donate blood.
3000 Ament Line, Heidelberg • 519-699-4646
3860 Manser Rd., Linwood • 519-698-2610 linwoodvet@linwoodvet.ca
congratulations to the observer
Three more National Newspaper Awards! 1st Place - Best National Editorial - Steve Kannon Blue Ribbon -- Best Overall Newspaper 3rd Place - Best Editorial Page We’re proud to be ranked amongst Canada’s best weekly newspapers once again. Serving communities as rich and vibrant as Woolwich and Wellesley is an honour and priviledge. So thank you for your loyalty and support throughout the years.
South West Ontario Veterinary Service 1010 Industrial Crs., St. Clements
519.699.0600
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL • POLE LINE CONSTRUCTION ESA Licence # 7000438
1025 Alfred St., Linwood • 519-698-2472
CALL 1-888-2DONATE or VISIT www.blood.ca for more information or to book an appointment.
24 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
Obituaries Obituary
garage sale cont’d Obituary
Obituary
Horst, Melvin
Huschka, Robert Robert Huschka peacefully left us on March 30, 2015 in his 80th year. Born in 1935 in Sudetenland, Bob was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Anna Huschka, who immigrated to Canada when Bob was 14 and his brother, Kurt (Lorrie) was 10. Five years later, he was named class valedictorian at Galt Collegiate. Although he wanted to be an artist or a soldier Bob realised he needed a real job and his passion lay in teaching. A graduate of WLU he began his teaching career at Elmira District Secondary School (EDSS) in 1957. That same year Bob married his beloved Mary and his family grew with the addition of Rita, Tom (Brenda), and Robbie. Bob’s children eventually presented him with five grandchildren, Josh Sprague (Erin), Sabrina Hutchison (David), Kyle Huschka, Brittany Huschka (Paul), and Sara Bews. They, in turn, presented him with five great-grandchildren, Owen, Kade, Finley, Kenley, and Sidney, who always made their Opa smile. EDSS embraced Bob and a love affair of 31 years was initiated. A German teacher and guidance counselor to begin with, Bob then became a history teacher and head of the department for many years. Not one to waste time he also became very involved in the Elmira community. A member of town council and a stalwart of the local Liberal party, Bob encouraged young people to participate in the democratic process. He also sat on the Elmira Theatre Company Board of Directors and served as a Trustee for WRDSB. Bob sang in the Concordia Club choir, played tennis, ping pong, volleyball and eventually became President of the Concordia Club overseeing its 125th anniversary celebration. Bob’s retirement from EDSS was celebrated at the Concordia Club with over 400 former students, faculty and friends in attendance. His influence on his students cannot be overstated – from as far back as 1960 students from each decade continued to stay in touch. Bob had a profound impact on many people; he believed there was no more important job in the world than teaching and his students benefited from that belief. Bob spent his last few years at Sunnyside Home in Kitchener where the staff included many of his former students. He was especially grateful to Mara, Sue, and Christine. Bob will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Cremation has taken place. Memorial visitation was held at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira on Thursday, April 2, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Bring your stories and songs to the CELEBRATION of Bob’s LIFE on Thursday, April 9, 2015 at 3 p.m. at the Concordia Club, 429 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Sunnyside Home Foundation and would be appreciated by the family.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com
In the village in which he was born, Mel died peacefully on Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at Derbecker’s Heritage House in St. Jacobs, age 88 years. Beloved husband of Leeta (Dettwiler) for over 66 years. Son of the late Menno and Lovina (Bauman) Horst. Loving father of Doug (Stephanie) of Hamilton, Roland (Rae) of Campbellville, Rose Ann (Glen, deceased) Mottet of Sherwood Park, AB, Gary (Brenda) of Stratford, and Brent (Andrea) of St. Jacobs. He will be sadly missed by 16 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Survived by sisters Mary Shantz, Barbara Horst, and Emma Brubacher. Predeceased by siblings Lena Frey, David, Elam and Amon Horst, Martha Koch, and Verna Waters. Somewhat of a nomad, Mel lived and worked in many places including Mel’s Choice Chicken, Wagner’s Corner, Quebec farm and Camp Sken-nen, The Stone Crock, Home Hardware and Chesley Lake Camp. Through it all, he found his primary joy in helping others, making music, and entertaining people. Visitation will be at St. Jacobs Mennonite Church, 1310 King St. N., St. Jacobs, on Monday, April 6, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm. Burial will have taken place at St. Jacobs Mennonite Cemetery prior to the Memorial Service which will be at the church on Tuesday, April 7, 2015 11 a.m. Cremation has taken place. The family is very grateful for the care received in the last weeks, particularly from the staff at Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus and Derbecker’s Heritage House. In Mel’s memory donations to St. Jacob’s Mennonite Church Mission Partnership Fund, Mennonite Central Committee Canada, or Alzheimer Society Waterloo Wellington would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com Obituary
Pidgeon, Grace Shirley (nee: Dagg) April 11, 1928 – January 3, 2015 Passed away peacefully into the arms of her Lord, surrounded by her family at the age of 86. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at the Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home, 280 St. David St S, Fergus on April 11, 2015 from 10:00-11:00 am, a Memorial service will follow in the funeral home chapel at 11:00 am. Donations in Grace’s memory may be made to Groves Memorial Hospital Bldg Fund.
Garage Sales Garage Sale - Sat. April 11 at 8 a.m. 110 Wellington St. South, Drayton. (beside library). Household items and more.
Kraemer, Ivan (1939-2015) Passed away peacefully into the presence of the Master Carpenter on Monday, March 23, 2015 at the age of 76 years. Ivan, of St. Jacobs, was the beloved husband of Agnes (Brubacher) Kraemer. Loving father of Rosemary (Steve) Martin, Pauline (Leon) Brubacher, Joanne (Wayne) Freeman, Susan (Larry) Martin, Shirley (Arnie) Gingrich, Terry (Julie) Kraemer, Laurie (Leroy) Martin, and Dave (Janet) Brubacher. He will be sadly missed by his 32 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Remembered by his sisters Salome Bearinger and Edna (Noah) Martin, and brother-in-law Eugene (Susanna) Brubacher. Predeceased by an infant daughter, a son Brian, a daughter Carol Brubacher, and a brother-in-law Cleason Bearinger. Ivan, former owner of Kraemer Woodcraft Ltd., was a respected businessman and well known for his community and church involvement. He was an active member of Countryside Mennonite Fellowship, always willing to express his faith in action. Visitation was at Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 from 2-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. The funeral service was at Countryside Mennonite Fellowship, Hawkesville on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at 2 p.m. Interment followed at Hillside Cemetery. Thank you to the CCAC nurses and the staff at Grand River Cancer Centre and the Intensive Care Unit for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy can be made to Canadian Cancer Society or Grand River Regional Cancer Centre.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com
garage sales Indoor Garage Sale. Woolwich Memorial Centre, Sat.. April 11, 7:30 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 519-669-6026. bbaechler@woolwich.ca www.woolwich.ca
HELP WANTED
PARTS / INSIDE SALES PERSON REQUIRED Bauman Manufacturing is an original equipment manufacturer located in Elmira. We are currently looking for an individual to join our parts / sales team. The successful applicant will be required to do the following: • Service customers at the counter, on the phone and via email in a courteous and professional manner. • Process parts orders via retail counter, phone and email. • Advise customers on parts pricing, function and applications • Handle point of sale transactions from start to finish and accurately invoice parts and whole goods. • Assist in keeping the inventory control system accurate and up to date. • Potentially assist with trade-shows. • Other tasks may be assigned as needed. Experience in agricultural sales, parts or service would be an asset. Our company offers competitive wages, steady hours, an excellent benefit package and a great work environment. If you are a self-motivated team player please submit your resume to: Bauman Manufacturing Ltd. 3 Industrial Drive Elmira, Ontario N3B2S1 sales@baumanmfg.com
1 IN THE REGION
#
NEWS SOURCE
U19 girls take home silver from guelph
www.grahamgiddyfh.com | 519-843-3100
death notices HUTT, Jane (Jeri) Elizabeth (nee Wallace) | Of Wellesley,
Ontario, passed peacefully away on Thursday, March 26, 2015 at Grand River Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. KARLEY, Margaret (Violet) | Peacefully at home on
Sunday, March 29, 2015, Margaret (nee Koebel) in her 86th year. LEU, Fred | Passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2015 at Grand River Hospital, K-W Health Centre, Kitchener. He was born 78 years ago in Wellesley Township. ROZEMA, Catharina (Benjamins) | Of Drayton went home to be with her Lord peacefully, on Wednesday, April 1, 2015, in her 94th year.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
The St. Clements U19 girls’ ringette team, which finished the season as the Eastern Conference champs, took home silver from the Western Region finals last weekend in Guelph. Back row: Rachel Carere, Hannah Bettke, Lauren Horst. Middle row: Lauren Crawford, Lisa Carere (manager) Kenzie Beacom, Sarah Wetteskind, Ali Schultz, Kate Martin, Emma Schultz, Kylee Barless, Lee Brubacher (coach). Front row: Madison Bowman, Emily Green, Laura Schultz (coach).
LIVING HERE | 25
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
LIVING HERE Chef’s table/ Donna Gingrich in good voice / living history
Whitney Neilson A fortieth anniversary calls for celebration, and a celebration there will be. The Waterloo Regional Gilbert and Sullivan Society will mark four decades of music and theatre with the 40th Anniversary TopsyTurvy Show on April 19. It will include former and new artists from around the region and country. Some of the returning cast members include Wayne Berwick, Alison Watson Moodie, Nancy Hiebert, Judith Bean, Barbara Brown, Alison Enns, Jason Hales, Dan Lenz, Paul Nowak, Tom Goerz, Brian Otto, Brian Black, Amanda Kind, Caroline Dery and Rachel Cleland. “We have one person that is coming from Nova Scotia, one person coming from out west, several people coming from Hamilton and even more from Toronto,” Leslie-Gail Hill, secretary for the society, said. “Some of our singers that started out as basic singers have now become professional singers, which is just great. We were amazed. We sent out letters to everybody that had ever done a role with us and all but two said they’d be there with bells on.” The society celebrates the production of operettas written by W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan. They will also be putting on a youth abridged performance of “HMS Pinafore” at Elora Public School from May 7-9. It will star Grade 7 and Grade 8 students from the school. “If we can get the kids interested in doing or even watching Gilbert and Sullivan when they’re younger, when they get to the age where they’re in high school, if you’re in the collegiate somewhere along the
Time to get a little Topsy-Turvy Waterloo Regional Gilbert and Sullivan Society marks 40 years with a special anniversary show
This year’s 40th anniversary of the Waterloo Regional Gilbert and Sullivan Society will be marked by performances across the region, including at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse. The Princess Ida, pictured, is the last big production the society put on. [Submitted] line you’re going to touch on a Gilbert and Sullivan song because they’re used as teaching songs as a way to sing properly,” Hill said. The kids were running around the school singing the songs they learned for HMS Pinafore between classes and on lunch break, even the kids who aren’t in the production. “That is really neat because Gilbert and Sullivan really are sing-able,” Hill said. “They’re very lyrical
tunes and quick and easy to pick up. We may not fade into the mist. We may be able to keep things going here.” She said they used to do productions every year, but with the cost of putting together costumes and sets, it’s just not feasible anymore. Perth Country Players did The Mikado last fall and she thinks a theatre group in Guelph will be doing one this coming fall. “Any other community
theatre around, they’re doing Broadway because you can sort of cheat on things,” Hill said. “People don’t really know the difference between the costumes of what people wore in the ‘30s and ‘40s. When you do a Gilbert and Sullivan you’re talking 1866 through to 1910. Finding garments like that at Value Village doesn’t work. You have to alter them somehow to give them that look.” They haven’t put on a big
production in a few years. The last was “Princess Ida,” which has a British background in the 14th century. They still do smaller concerts throughout the year though, which they use to save up for larger productions. “It’s so important because with the rising cost in the world today when we put on a production we’ve got to have a jar full of loonies to the tune of around $50,000 to be able to put on a great big production,” Hill said. “Community theatres are not doing that sort of costume drama because it’s just too expensive.” In June and July members of the society will perform Gilbert and Sullivan music in flash mob style at Victorian teas. The anniversary will also be recognized by Drayton Entertainment with their production of the “Pirates of Penzance” at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse in October. “We’re really excited about this 40th anniversary – we’ve actually been around this long and it’s only because of our volunteers. They’re awesome,” Hill said. There’s no price for admission for the TopsyTurvy Show, but a goodwill offering will be accepted at the door. The society is a non-profit charitable organization. “We have a ball and we make friends for life,” Hill said. “That is the best thing of all. We entertain the community but we make really good friends.” The Topsy-Turvy Show runs at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on April 19. To reserve your ticket email gswaterloo@gmail.com or phone 519-886-3932. More information about the group can be found online at www.gswaterloo.ca.
A tip of the hat (cake) to Easter RECIPE NOTES Last week, I made a cake for my niece’s 14th birthday. After a great deal of deliberation and online searching I decided on a hat cake. I had found a recipe for homemade fondant made with marshmallows and I could not wait to try it! You know that tasteless, cardboardy coating on a cake that looks edible but isn’t? Well, this fondant is nothing like that. This tastes like marshmallows. And to my amazement, it was very easy to work with: easy to roll, pliable and workable. Now, as usual when I find a recipe I have to try immediately I am caught unprepared in some way – I didn’t have tiny cookie cutters. So I used my niece’s and nephews’ playdough toys (after a thorough washing) and created far more shapes than was needed for one cake. This is Easter week so I am going to call this version the Easter Bonnet Cake. It’s hard to pinpoint Easter desserts – something lemon, anything with Easter eggs on top, anything made in pastel spring colours. In my childhood Mom made Easter tarts for us; a sugar cookie-type crust, spread with pastel icing, coconut and jelly beans on top. Back then, we didn’t have chocolate chef’s table | 27
Death is Conquered, Man is Free and Christ has Won the Victory! Happy Easter from Everyone at Leroy’s Auto Care. – Leroy and Donna Martin
Tel: (519) 669-1082 Fax: (519) 669-3084
20 Oriole Parkway E., Elmira, ON
info@leroysautocare.net
www.leroysautocare.net
26 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
“A GOOD JOB DONE EVERY TIME”
Skilled craftsmanship. Quality materials. CONSTRUCTION STARTS HERE.
Kleensweep Carpet Care
3435 Broadway St. Hawkesville 519-699-4641
Rugs and Upholstery
•Mattress Cleaning •Residential •Commercial •Personalized Service •Free Estimates
COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
West Montrose, ON
T. 519.669.2033
COLLEEN
Cell: 519.581.7868
Truck & Trailer Maintenance Cardlock Fuel Management
COMMERCIAL 24 CARDLOCK FUEL DEPOT HOUR M&G MILLWRIGHTS LTD. • Design • Installation • Custom Fabrication
MATERIAL HANDLING & PROCESSING SYSTEMS
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E-MAIL: ads@woolwichobserver.com
APRIL 4
APRIL 8
APRIL 10
Breakfast with the Easter Bunny from 8:3011 a.m. at the Breslau Community Centre; $6 per person, under 4 free. Hosted by the Breslau Recreation Association. For information 519-2133246 or info@breslau.org.
Seniors Community Dining at noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Calvary United Church, 48 Hawkesville Rd., St. Jacobs. Cost $11. Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for a hot noonday meal, fellowship and entertainment. Call 519-664-1900 for more info.
Community Can Dine “Where the entire community comes together to meet and eat.” Hosted at Trinity United Church, Elmira, 21 Arthur St. N. Dinner is served from 6-7:30 p.m. Menu: Turkey dinner. Pay what you can! Everyone welcome.
Breslau Easter Egg Hunt 1 p.m. at Breslau Memorial Park; $2 per child. Hosted by the Breslau Recreation Association. For information 519-2133246 or info@breslau.org. Optimist Club of St. Jacobs Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Starts at 10 a.m. sharp. Riverside Meadows Park on Water Street in St. Jacobs. Bring a basket and join the fun including a visit from the Easter Bunny. Please - no dogs allowed.
APRIL 6 Yatton Public School Reunion at Yatton School. 2-4:30 p.m. Suggested donation $2 per person. Reminisce and renew acquaintances with former classmates. Bring a sample of memorabilia if desired. Light refreshments provided. Any questions? Contact Janice 519-669-8008 or Arlene 519-576-8515.
APRIL 7 bingo, upstairs at the St. Clements Community Centre, 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Paradise & District Lions Club. Wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact Joe Brick at 519-699-4022.
1540 FLORDALE ROAD
APRIL 9
APRIL 12
New Horizons welcomes all zoomers, boomers and seniors. Enjoy coffee or tea and a delicious snack. Speaker: Marj and Barb from the Alzheimers Association - Dialogue on Alzheimers. Be inspired and socialize; $2 per person, 10-11:30 a.m. at the Maryhill Community Centre. For more information call Joan Haid at 519-648-2742 or email at jehaid@ explorenet.ca.
Waterloo Regional Crime Stoppers 2nd crime awareness event, 9 a.m. at Woolwich Memorial Centre, Elmira. Woolwich Minor Hockey skills session by the WRPS, free swim, lineman football camp with University of Waterloo and Tricity Outlaws and much more along with a BBQ, prizes for essays of crime awareness, youth centre sessions, senior centre info sessions and more. See waterloocrimestoppers.com for details.
The Lions Club of Elmira 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 519-572-2669. Seniors Lunch Club at noon. Breslau Community Centre, 100 Andover Dr., Breslau. Cost $6. Join us for a noonday light lunch and fellowship. Call Community Care Concepts at 519-664-1900 or toll free: 1-855-6641900 for more information. Woodside Evergreen Fellowship 10:30 a.m., 200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira. The Serenaders, “Toetapping music of nostalgia, inspiration, gospel and country.” Devotion: Pastor Paul Fletcher. Suggested donation $7/person - includes hot lunch. For more information contact Reta Malloy 519-669-8752.
Check Us Out Online! woolwichkin.com
21 INDUSTRIAL DR. ELMIRA
519-669-2884
4-H Alumni Tea’s - 100 years of 4-H, 2-4 p.m. Please bring pictures/scrapbooks, news articles, we will scan and return to you same day. We are creating a display for the 100th celebration June 20. Floradale fire station, 50 Florapine Rd., Floradale. Questions please call Sharon Grose 519-846-9788 sharon@huskyfarm.ca.
APRIL 13 A Taste of Woolwich 5-8 p.m., St. Teresa of Avila church, 19 Flamingo Dr., Elmira. Get to know your local food producer, buy and sample quality artisans foods. No charge, donations appreciated, everyone welcome. For more information call Barb 519-669-3961.
CORPORATE WEAR PROMOTIONAL APPAREL WORK & SAFETY WEAR | BAGS T-SHIRTS | JACKETS | HATS
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519.886.2102
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www.mgmill.com
www.UniTwin.com
Submit an event The Events Calendar is reserved for Non-profit local community events that are offered free to the
public. Placement is not guaranteed. Registrations, corporate events, open houses and the like do not qualify in this section.
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places of faith | a directory of local houses of worship
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VERMONT Castings
11 HENRY ST. - UNIT 9, ST. JACOBS
SANYO CANADIAN
PATRICK MERLIHAN
It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon Hostess.
9:00 am: Christian Education 10:15 am: Worship Pastor: Hans J.W. Borch Proclaiming Christ through Love and Service
60 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519-669-5591
Nursery Provided
Sunday School
Zion Mennonite Fellowship -The JunctionSunday School 9:30am Worship Service 10:45am Finding The Way Together 47 Arthur St., S. Elmira • 519-669-3153 www.thejunctionelmira.com
Sunday School at 9:30am
850 Sawmill Rd, Bloomingdale, ON N0B 1K0 (519) 744-7447 | kcf@kcf.org | www.kcf.org
33 Industrial Dr., Elmira 519.669.1591
Service at 10:30am Rev. Paul Snow
Hearing Assisted
Sun., April 5th 10:30 am
Door Number Three Ron Seabrooke
Discovering God Together
4522 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein www.wbconline.ca • 519-669-2319
REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.
REACH WITH LOVE. TEACH THE TRUTH. SEND IN POWER.
www.kcf.org/academy
Elmira Mennonite Church
290 Arthur St. South, Elmira • 519-669-3973 www.ElmiraAssembly.com (Across from Tim Horton’s)
Emmanuel
Worship: 9:30am
Easter Sunday Christ is Risen, Alleluia!
Easter Sunday Sunday, April 5, 2015
58 Church St. W., Elmira • 519-669-5123
9:15 & 11:00 AM
REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
#Resurrection SUNDAYS @ 10:30AM @ Park Manor School 18 Mockingbird Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1459 www.elmiracommunity.org
Good Friday Service at 10:00 AM 200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1296 www.woodsidechurch.ca
EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH
Worship Service
Sundays 10:45am
elmiraemmanuel.com
519.669.5030
Sunday School 9:45am Worship Service 11:00am Hopping Thursdays 7-8:30pm 22 Florapine Rd., Floradale • 519-669-2861 www.floramc.org
LIVING HERE | 27
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, april 4, 2015
Strange but true / BILL & RICH SONES Ph.D.
If we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do ourselves in, chances are the planet has it in for us eventually WEIRD NOTES
Q. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a funny thing about a good tickling?
A. You can tickle oth-
ers all you want (so long as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll put up with it) but not yourself, reports Dinsa Sachan in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Discoverâ&#x20AC;? magazine. Exactly why this is true is not known: One theory is that the brainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s predictive powers regarding our own movements take away the surprise necessary for a good tickle; another is that â&#x20AC;&#x153;the brain simply dampens all sensory input during any movement, including tickling, to better react to new
sensations.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a serious question,â&#x20AC;? says psychologist George Van Doorn at Federation University in Australia, â&#x20AC;&#x153;since tickling gives us a clue as to how the brain processes sensations and can even teach us a bit about mental illness. (People with schizophrenia, for instance, actually can tickle themselves for unknown reasons.)â&#x20AC;?
Q. When riding â&#x20AC;&#x153;spell-
boundâ&#x20AC;? in the back seat of a Lexus one July day in 2014, MIT roboticist John Leonard said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt like I was at the launch at Kitty Hawk, as the Wright brothers ushered in the age of air travel 111 years ago.â&#x20AC;? What was going on here?
A. No one was in the
driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat of this â&#x20AC;&#x153;self-driving car,â&#x20AC;? reports Douglas Fox in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Discoverâ&#x20AC;? magazine. This was the same year that Google added 100 more prototypes to the mix, all lacking steering wheels. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Google car senses its surroundings through radar, cameras and range-finding lasers spinning atop the vehicle to create a 360-degree view of pedestrians, vehicles and intersections.â&#x20AC;? Meanwhile, Audi and BMW unveiled their own versions. The critical factor here is the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s computer with its carefully detailed maps that are generated by manually driving the sensor-loaded car â&#x20AC;&#x153;to scan roads in advance, revealing potholes, stop signs and other features that are then
spell the end?
processed into a detailed map and downloaded to the autonomous car.â&#x20AC;? The real challenge is to create exact maps for the thousands of roads worldwide and to constantly update for safety purposes. And, Fox adds, â&#x20AC;&#x153;autonomous cars will also need to read gestures and other cues from cyclists, pedestrians and traffic cops.â&#x20AC;? As Leonard concludes, the mapping in particular could take 30 years to do right and, he admits, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sometimes you need younger people, who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know how hard something is.â&#x20AC;?
A. Even if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do ourselves in via wars or global warming, Earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural climatological cycles may undo us, says Charles Adler in his book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Wizards, Aliens and Starships.â&#x20AC;? Because of slow periodic changes in our planetary orbit, Earth goes through cycles of glaciation and thawing every 100,000 years or so, with about 80,000 years of glaciation followed by 20,000 for interglacial periods. All of current human civilization has been in the last interglacial period, with the invention of agriculture making human society possible. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This was only possible after the glaciers retreated 15,000 years ago.â&#x20AC;?
Q. With apologies to T.S.
Eliot: â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the way the world ends, with a bang and not a whimper.â&#x20AC;? What are a few scientific scenarios that might
Over the next few hundred million years, humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s threats are expected to come from comet or asteroid impacts like those that did in the dinosaurs 65 million years ago. Yet even smaller impacts, which come more often, could pose threats, such as in 1993 when Shoemaker-Levy 9 hit Jupiter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This comet, which calved into several separate sections before impact, was smaller than our dinosaurkiller but its impact was still larger than the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total nuclear arsenal.â&#x20AC;?
about the authors Bill is a journalist, Rich holds a doctorate in physics. Together the brothers bring you â&#x20AC;&#x153;Strange But True.â&#x20AC;? Send your questions to strangetrue@compuserve.com.
OBSERVER CROSSWORD PUZZLER Across 1. Graves 5. NBC morning show 10. Atones 15. Promotion 16. Deviation 18. Japanese stringed instrument 19. Industrious 20. Birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beak 22. Bar order 24. Follow a procedure 25. With the result that 26. Elephantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weight, maybe 27. Cracker Jack bonus 28. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If all ___ fails ...â&#x20AC;? 30. Congratulations, of a sort 32. Used as a greeting 33. Regrets 35. Honoreeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spot 37. Fries, maybe 39. You and I 40. You and I, not them
41. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Chorus Lineâ&#x20AC;? number 43. Chap 44. Cornish 46. Biology lab supply 47. That guy 48. Word before course, sometimes 49. Arid 52. Endorse 53. Word symbolized by an asperand 54. Managed, with â&#x20AC;&#x153;outâ&#x20AC;? 55. Bubkes 56. Fastidious 57. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The coast __ clearâ&#x20AC;? 58. Indian bread 59. Annoy 60. â&#x20AC;&#x153;___ we having fun yet?â&#x20AC;? 61. Hypothesis 62. Fraction of a newton 63. Murray or Perkins 65. P.I., e.g. 66. Dog command 67. Operating room
68. Floral necklace 70. Make waves 72. On the safe side, at sea Down 1. Meltdown 2. Loathsome 3. Close to 4. Benefit 6. Fine 7. Follow 8. Above 9. â&#x20AC;&#x153;__ guyâ&#x20AC;? 10. Big deal 11. To exist 12. Elusive creature 13. Tokyo, once 14. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Playboy of the Western Worldâ&#x20AC;? author 17. Pipe worker 21. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Later!â&#x20AC;? 23. Fed. construction overseer 25. Add starch 29. Black billiard ball 31. â&#x20AC;&#x153;__ usualâ&#x20AC;?
32. Chops 34. Damp 36. Go after, in a way 38. Engage in 42. A Bobbsey twin 45. Red Square figure 46. Position paper 48. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Comme ci, comme çaâ&#x20AC;? 50. Abounding 51. Grimm character 52. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My dear manâ&#x20AC;? 53. Baseball bat wood 54. Ring bearer, maybe 56. Besmirch 57. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cousin __â&#x20AC;? 58. Not in any degree or manner 59. Of me or myself 64. Maple genus 65. Toronto, for short 66. Mea ___ 69. Moray, e.g. 71. Yours truly
Chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s table: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the frosting on the cake From | 25
eggs and were blissfully content with jelly beans. Happy Easter to all.
Easter Bonnet Cake 11â&#x20AC;? round flat cake 6â&#x20AC;? or 7â&#x20AC;? rounded cake Ribbon to make a bow Icing of your choice Marshmallow Fondant cutouts to garnish
Marshmallow Fondant:
Half a bag of 400gr. white mini marshmallows 2-1/2 cups icing sugar (approx.) 1 tbsp water Food colouring Shortening or butter for greasing
Put marshmallows into microwaveable bowl. Add water and toss until marshmallows are moistened. Microwave for 30 seconds or so, then stir with a greased spoon. Microwave a few seconds longer until all is melted. Stir in icing sugar, 1/2 cup at a time until fondant looks kneadable. Sprinkle a little icing sugar on the counter top and knead fondant until smooth and no longer sticky. You may not need all of the 2-1/2 cups of icing sugar. Or, if it is too dry, add a few drops of water. Decide how many colours you want and divide fondant accordingly. Knead food colouring into
each amount until you like the colour. Go easy on the food colouring â&#x20AC;&#x201C; liquid or paste colourings work but require different amounts. Wrap each portion of fondant into greased plastic wrap. On a surface sprinkled with icing sugar, roll out a portion to about 1/8â&#x20AC;? thick. Cut out desired shapes and place on waxed paper to dry. Let them dry at least 24 hours at room temperature, uncovered. Instead of rolling the fondant, you can use it to create anything, anything at all for cake decorating. Unused fondant can be stored tightly wrapped for 3-4 months and then kneaded again until pliable.
OPEN 24 HOURS | 7 DAYS A WEEK
DELIV SER ERY AVAILVICE Call fo ABLE rD
etails
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Sudoku challenge
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. We have got you started with a few numbers already placed in the boxes.
28 | BACK PAGE
THE OBSERVER | april 4, 2015
Kings: Sutherland Cup series is the next step
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As we went through the series, our battles were not very good. But we kept getting a little better and a little better. ... One thing we did well was that when we lost a battle, we just reengaged again and kept the battle going instead of giving them on opportunity to get moving. And then Jon Reinhart played excellent and whenever we had a chance to make a simple play, we did.” After sweeping both the Brampton Bombers and the Waterloo Siskins in the first two rounds of the playoffs, the Kings looked to be cruising into the Cherrey Cup final match up against Stratford. But the plucky, chippy bunch from Stratford proved a greater test. Game one went to Elmira 4-1 at home March 25. Then, the boys headed on the road to the Allman Arena on the 27 where they fell 4-2. Back at home on the 29, the Kings eked out a tight 4-3 win in double overtime. Then they carried the momentum back into Stratford the next night with a 5-4 victory. That set the stage for a dramatic game five with the cup on the line back at home in front of a sellout crowd.
Skinner opened the scoring with a brilliant goal midway through the first. After missing time during the first two rounds of the playoffs, Skinner is getting back to full stride, Flanagan said. And it showed. The speedy centre picked up the puck near centre ice and blew past the Culliton defence for a breakaway. In all alone, he made no mistake on the back hand before jumping into the glass in the corner in jubilation. Mitch Wright and Adam Brubacher picked up the assists. In the second, Skinner potted another to give the Kings a 2-0 lead. It stayed that way until the 10:34 mark of the third when Startford finally solved Reinhart. But that’s as close as they would get. Brendan Schneider got the Kings the insurance goal at 14:48, Alex Mutton picked up the apple. Then, with 4:30 left on the clock the Cullies pulled their goalie. Mitch Klie promptly put the game out of reach with an empty netter. And just for good measure, Skinner added another in the final minute. After using his wheels to find open ice to the net, it looked like the open cage was up for grabs. Instead,
the Cullies sent goalie Nick Caldwell rushing back into his crease. But it was pointless, since Skinner easily found the back of the net for the hat trick. And with a raucous full house on hand, dozens of hats soared down onto the ice. As the clock wound down to zero, the Sugar Kings swarmed the ice, piling up on top of their goaltender behind his net. Following the euphoric celebration and the traditional skate with the cup, captain Klie applauded his team’s effort. “We got the first goal which was huge,” he said. “We knew we were going to come out and win tonight. We play strong at home, and we’re really happy with the outcome.” Asked about his standout performance, Skinner instead pushed the focus towards his teammates. “It was definitely a good game for everybody,” he said. “My line mates made it easy for me and I just tried to play the systems and do what we go over every day.” Now, the Kings head to the Sutherland Cup semifinals where they will face off against the top teams from the GOJHL’s Western and Golden Horseshoe conferences, plus a wild card squad.
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The home bench celebrates following Ethan Skinner’s third goal of the game, which sealed the deal at 5-1 with less than a minute remaining. [Scott Barber / The Observer]
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