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01 | 07 | 2016 VOLUME 21 | ISSUE 01
KINGS HAVE A REASON TO CELEBRATE SPORTS PAGE 9
COMMENT PAGE 6
FLU CASES DOWN, BUT WE’RE TOLD TO STAY VIGILANT
Shantz court case adjourned until Feb. 24
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
Young cyclist seriously injured
LIZ BEVAN
A seven-year-old boy was transported to Guelph General Hospital and then airlifted to Hamilton General Hospital on Wednesday morning with life-threatening injuries after being struck by a courier truck while riding his bicycle northbound on Line 86 near West Montrose. He veered across two lanes of traffic in an attempt to enter Halm Road before being struck. His nine-year-old brother accompanied him, but was uninjured. Waterloo Regional Police kept the road closed until roughly 2 p.m. to complete their investigation. They don’t anticipate any charges will be laid. [JOE MERLIHAN / THE OBSERVER]
Mild end of 2015 provides savings to twp. snow-clearing budgets WHITNEY NEILSON A MILD START TO this winter hasn’t only been good for those of us opposed to the snow and cold associated with this time of year. Woolwich’s snow-clearing budget has benefited from the lack of snow, a welcome change after the rough start to 2015, says Dan Kennaley, the township’s director of engineering and planning.
a very healthy surplus in winter control,” Kennaley said. Right now any surplus goes into the general operating budget. They budget how much they’ll need for snow clearing on a five year rolling average, which helps to soften any peaks in bad winter weather that might occur. “In the last couple years we have had a couple of tough winters where we’ve exceeded the SNOW-CLEARING | 2
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They don’t have final numbers yet because there was some snow at the end of the year. Crews were out snowplowing and then a couple days later there was some blowing snow to deal with. Prior to that their 2015 budget was $694,440. Of that, they had spent $514,837. “That last event will cost something. It will eat into the $180,000 surplus, but we will nonetheless finish the year with
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“The fall has been great and we needed that after the winter last winter. January through April, that was pretty tough. Not huge amounts of snow, but a lot of salting and sanding took place on top of some snow plowing last winter. It was cold for an extended period there. We were concerned about coming into the fall about our budget, but the fall has been fantastic and consequentially we’re actually in relatively good shape,” Kennaley said.
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THE CASE AGAINST WOOLWICH Mayor Sandy Shantz has been adjourned once again, this time until the end of February. Appearing on the Dec. 2 docket at the Provincial Offense Court in Kitchener, the case, which was brought forth under the Municipal Elections Act (MEA) by Elmira resident Alan Marshall, was put off for the third time since the fall. The matter was assigned a return date of Feb. 24. There was also a shuffle in representation on behalf of Shantz. Defense attorney Randall Martin has appeared on the Woolwich mayor’s behalf at previous court dates, but he has recently retired from the legal profession. Shantz is currently without counsel, but Martin says she won’t need representation until the Crown decides what to do with the MEA charges. Crown prosecutor Alexander Andres is giving the case file to an outside Crown prosecutor for review to avoid the appearance of impropriety before returning to court on Feb. 24. “There is no conflict here,” he told Justice of the Peace Andrew Marquette. “However, an outside Crown review is to ensure that justice is done for all parties.” Marquette has also recused himself from future dealings with the case. He initially helped Marshall with laying the charges against Shantz and wanted to avoid the appearance of conflict of interest.
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2 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Wellesley eyes 2% to 3% increase in taxes going into 2016 budget talks agenda. It’s a very aggressive agenda, with things that we’d like to do township wide. We have to start putting some money away for that sort of thing,” Joe Nowak said this week. Council was presented with a draft budget prior to Christmas with a proposed 3.178 per cent tax increase, but Nowak says he thinks council will be able to pare that down. Back in September council advised township staff they’d like to see the tax increase stay
WHITNEY NEILSON WELLESLEY COUNCIL WILL BE eying a two to three per cent tax increase in next week’s 2016 budget discussions, says the township’s mayor “It’ll definitely be under three [per cent]. I guess the safest thing for me to say right now is somewhere between two and three, but definitely under three. What we’re doing this year is we’re building reserves. We have a fairly significant
Is
between 1.5 and three per cent. He said he’s got quite a list of issues residents want to see addressed, from the last municipal election when he was out knocking on doors. Adding trails and recreational land was top of mind, he notes. The township’s fire master plan will be completed and brought to council soon. It’s unclear what sort of budget implications it will have. BUDGET | 21
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budget, so now we’re getting some payback here, where we are under budget,” Kennaley said. With the long-range forecast predicting a milder winter than last year and less snow, it looks like the snow clearing budget will get a nice break from last winter’s damage. Now, they’re considering the possibility of recommending that council create a winter control reserve, so they can take the surplus and put it into the reserve to address the uncertainties of weather from year to year. “We did have a couple of fairly severe winters in 2014-2015 and then the year before that. We exceeded our budget both years. But that begins to affect the rolling average. So it bumps up the budget for 2016 for instance. And now that we’ve had a surplus in 2015-2016, eventually that will bring the rolling average back down a little bit,” Kennaley said. It wouldn’t be the first time Woolwich had a win-
ter control reserve. He says before he worked for the township, sometime around 2004, there was one, but they it was done away with and rolled into the general operating contingency. “It seems now with the fluctuations we’ve been experiencing the last few years, taking another look at the possibility of creating a winter control reserve seems timely to do that,” Kennaley said. Wellesley has also benefited from fewer snow and ice storms than in previous years, says Kevin Beggs, general manager of community services for the township. “As far as the winter budget comparing it to 2014 I would say we’re about 10 per cent less for winter maintenance. Less labour and less equipment but the materials basically are about average. When I say materials [I mean] salt and sand,” Beggs said. Any surplus stays in the general operating budget and if they have to go over they take it out of that. “A lot of times what we
do is we try to watch the bottom line of the budget, not just the winter maintenance. So you may not do something in operating just to make up what you went over in winter maintenance, if you can, depending on what it is,” Beggs explained. Having a slow start to winter in November and December definitely helped their budget “big time” he said, especially when comparing to 2013. “If you go back to 2013 that was a winter where our operating costs increased big time in winter maintenance, and it was due to we had two major ice storms in 2013. And then 2014 might have been a slight higher than average and I would say 2015 is about average winter when you compare back into 2010, 2011, 2012,” Beggs said. And as can be expected, how the budget will go for the rest of the winter rests on Mother Nature. “It depends how much it snows, and temperature is a big thing. If it stays like this I don’t see any issues,” Beggs said.
POLICE BLOTTER
Teen arrested and charged for three bank robberies
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Information Meeting and Registration for September 2016 Thursday, January 14, 2016 7:30 pm Lions Hall(beside the Woolwich Recreation Complex) 40 South Street West, Elmira • Students can earn a full grade 12 Ontario Secondary School Diploma • Flexible structure combines classroom instruction, work and home study • Technology emphasis with access to EDSS shops • Computer instruction with supervised internet access For more information contact: Jeff Martin, 519-669-5414 Ext.480 jeff_martin@googleapps.wrdsb.ca In the event of inclement weather, event will be rescheduled. Call snow phone 519-669-5414 ext. 804
A KITCHENER MAN FACES numerous charges in connection to three bank robberies, including branches in St. Clements and Drayton. The 18-year-old man was arrested on Dec. 23 by members of the Wellington County OPP and Waterloo Regional Police Service. The joint force investigation focused on all three robberies. The first occurred Feb. 9, 2015 at the CIBC in St. Clements. The second robbery occurred on Mar. 2, 2015 at the Royal Bank in Drayton. The third robbery occurred at the Scotiabank in Tavistock on Apr. 9, 2015. The nine-month investigation culminated in the arrest of the accused who was a young offender at the time
JANUARY 1
10:53 AM | Members of the Wellington County OPP investigated the driver of a 2010 Pontiac that entered into a R.I.D.E. spot check in the Town of Minto. While speaking with the driver, police detected the odour of fresh marijuana emanating from within the vehicle. The driver surrendered a small quantity of marijuana to the officer. Further investigation revealed that the man was suspended from driving and he was
of the incidents. He has been charged with three counts of ‘robbery,’ three counts of ‘use firearm in the commission of an offence,’ three counts ‘disguise with intent,’ two counts of ‘assault,’ and ‘assault with a weapon.’ Due to the accused being a young offender at the time of the incidents, he cannot be identified. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Waterloo Regional Police 519-653-7700 or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. If you wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or report online at www.csgw. tips, where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
operating a motor vehicle without insurance. A 46-year-old Mapleton Township man has been charged with ‘possession of marijuana under 30 grams,’ ‘drive while under suspension’ and ‘operate motor vehicle without insurance.’ He is to appear in Guelph Criminal Court on Feb. 12, to answer to the charges. JANUARY 2
3:00 PM | A Perth County OPP officer observed a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed
southbound on Highway 23, south of Listowel. The vehicle was travelling at a speed of 132 km/h in a posted 80 km/h zone. Based on the observations and investigative steps taken by the OPP officer, the 18-year-old female driver from the Municipality of North Perth was charged with ‘race a motor vehicle.’ The vehicle she was operating was towed from the scene and has been impounded for the prescribed seven-day period. Her driver’s licence was suspended for seven days. JANUARY 3
12:30 AM | Perth County OPP officers were conducting a festive Reduce Impaired Drivers Everywhere (RIDE) program in Milverton when they stopped a pickup truck with five occupants. While speaking to the male driver of the pickup, officers observed drug paraphernalia and detected the odour of raw marijuana in the cab of the vehicle. A small amount of marijuana and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) was subsequently located inside the vehicle. A 17-year-old male passenger of the truck was subsequently charged with ‘possession of cannabis marijuana under 30 grams,’ and ‘possession of psilocybin.’ The accused was released on an Appearance Notice requiring him to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice (Youth Division) in Stratford on Feb. 16, to answer to the charges.
NEWS | 3
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
2015 YEAR IN REVIEW
A look back at some of the stories from the pages of The Observer about the goings on in the townships
JANUARY Former Wellesley coun. dies A service was held Jan. 3 for former Wellesley councillor Jim Olender, who passed away Dec. 26 at Grand River Hospital at the age of 70. Olender, a two-term councillor for Ward 3 (2006-2014), was remembered fondly by his former colleagues from around the council table. Olender ran for mayor in October, falling to Joe Nowak in a close race. Subdivision moves forward Plans for a 141-home subdivision in Elmira cleared another hurdle Jan. 13, as Woolwich council approved a zone-change application from Birdland Developments. The project, known as Southwood 3, involves the westward extension of South Parkwood Boulevard and the creation of lots for 84 single-family homes, 24 semi-detached houses and 33 townhouse units. Heater causes $200,000 blaze near St. Jacobs An early morning fire Jan. 16 that consumed one home and damaged two neighbouring properties in St. Jacobs’ Martin Grove Village was likely caused by a portable heater, according to the Woolwich fire officials. Some 40 firefighters from the St. Jacobs, Conestogo and Elmira stations responded to the call around 1:30 a.m. at 103 and 105 Jessie Lee Ln. Council stands firm on 0% tax hike for Woolwich Woolwich residents will see no general tax increase this year, as council meeting Jan. 27 rolled back an expected two per cent tax hike, calling instead for expenditures to be reduced by that amount. A special levy of 1.6 per cent to fund future infrastructure projects stood, however. Advocating for the public, councillors stuck to their goal despite resistance from staff, voting to can or put off a variety of spending requests. Jigs Hollow pit back in play Just as Winterbourne residents feared, the operator of the Jigs Hollow gravel pit moved forward with plans to
extract aggregate below the water table. Preston Sand and Gravel has requested a meeting with Woolwich Township to get the process started. In an Ontario Municipal Board settlement, Woolwich agreed to allow for a pit on an 89-acre site at 125 Peel St. Work started on the site in 2013, but then quickly stopped when higher-than-expected groundwater levels were found, severely reducing the amount of accessible aggregate material.
FEBRUARY Expansion cleared for St. Jacobs outlet mall Deeming the changes minor, Woolwich has approved an amendment to its official plan allowing for an expanded range of uses at the St. Jacobs Factory Outlet Mall. The decision clears the way for the operators to find additional tenants for the retail centre adjacent to the farmers’ market. Meeting February 3, councillors agreed to amend the definition of factory outlet mall to allow a maximum of 20 per cent of the gross leasable floor area to be non-manufacturer outlet stores, in addition to manufacturer outlet stores, as a part of the retail mix within the mall at 25 Benjamin Rd. Cowan charged with fraud for expense claims Former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan has been charged with fraud under $5,000 and breach of trust in relation to his expense claims. The charges announced Feb. 6 followed an investigation conducted by members of the Ontario Provincial Police AntiRackets Branch. Initially investigated by Waterloo Regional Police, the case was turned over to the provincial force in October. Cowan, 50, came under scrutiny last year after a review found he submitted expense claims resulting in a double reimbursement of more than $2,700. Expenses related to conferences, mileage and meals charged on the mayor’s township credit card were also filed with the Region of Waterloo. As mayor, Cowan served as Woolwich’s representative on regional council.
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A space heater was identified as the cause of a fire that consumed one home and damaged to others Jan. 16 at Martin Grove Village. Jacks swept in opening round of playoffs The Wellesley Applejacks’ season came to a disappointing but expected end on Feb. 11 as they fell 8-4 to the Ayr Centennials, who completed a four-game sweep of the firstround playoff series. The score was in keeping with the first three matches, 5-1, 8-1 and 11-2 blowouts. Fire in meat-processing trailer sends teen to hospital A portable trailer used for cooking meat burst into flames on 4198 Arthur St. N., just north of Elmira on Feb. 17. Four people were in it at the time and a 15-year-old boy was airlifted to a Hamilton hospital with serious injuries. Damage was estimated at $30,000. The cause of fire is still under investigation. Kings fill pair of vacancies in the management suite The Sugar Kings will be under some new, but not completely unfamiliar leadership next season as Jeff Snyder was selected to be the director of hockey operations and Kevin Bloch was chosen as general manager. The team had been searching for a few months after GM Paul Jennings resigned and hockey operations director Keith Stewart told the team
he’d be finished after the season. February sets a new record for cold temperatures It’s official: February was the coldest month ever recorded in the Waterloo Region. According to Environment Canada, the average temperature of minus-14.8 Celsius surpassed the previous record of minus-13.2 set way back in 1934. That’s a 9.3-degree drop off from the typical February average of minus-5.5. And with 19 days below minus-20 (not including the wind chill) – there are typically two such days in February each year – it’s clear this was a truly remarkable stretch.
MARCH Reprieve for transfer stations The rural transfer stations earned a reprieve until year’s end as part of Waterloo Regional council’s approval of its 2015 budget on Mar. 4. Taxes will rise by another 2.58 per cent, above the inflation rate. The transfer stations in the townships had been scheduled to close at the end of the month. The current, muchreduced hours will remain for the duration of the year. Council instructed waste manage-
[FILE PHOTO]
ment staff to work with private operators to see if a handoff of services can be arranged. Woolwich Township has been especially vocal about retaining the much-used facility in Elmira, pushing for the region to keep the station open pending sale to a private operator. Cowan defaults on filing 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. Elmira’s sweetest day of all The syrup was flowing, the pancakes were sizzling, and the sun was shining on the 51st Elmira Maple Syrup Festival Mar. 28. Despite a chilly start to the morning, clear blue skies invited some 68,000 people to the world’s largest one-day 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.” Food bank launches in Wellesley Looking to fill the gap between social programs and out-of-town food banks, a group of dedicated community volunteers have teamed up to fight hunger in the Township of Wellesley. The Wellesley Community Food Cupboard will officially open next month, but first the group behind the pilot program hosted open houses on Mar. 28-29 in an effort to raise awareness and fill the shelves at their 146 David St. location in the village.
APRIL Kings win Cherrey Cup The Elmira Sugar Kings captured the 2014- 2015 Cherrey Cup Apr. 1 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
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THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s Midwestern Conference championship on home ice. Grant gives the green light to Wellesley playground With a $150,000 Ontario Trillium Fund grant in hand and a green light from council, the Wellesley and District Lions Club is ready to break ground on its accessible playground. The $310,000 project will replace the existing facility behind the Wellesley Arena with state of the art equipment designed to provide an open and inclusive environment for children of all abilities and needs. Hahn case sets a precedent for Woolwich, region Elmira Coun. Scott Hahn and his election expense claims brought about the first meeting of the region’s Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC). The case appeared to be a first for the township and Waterloo Region. It was certainly an unknown for Woolwich clerk Val Hummel, who’s had a long tenure at the administrative office. On Apr. 13, she fielded a request to audit Hahn’s expenses from Dan Holt, one of six candidates who ran in Ward 1 during last fall’s municipal election. Kings fall to LaSalle in semifinals on home ice Home ice advantage with a whopping 1,500 fans wasn’t enough to secure a game-seven win for the Elmira Sugar Kings, as they fell 3-1 to the LaSalle Vipers on April 19, eliminating them from a Sutherland Cup run. Wildcard LaSalle was ready right out of the gate, notching two goals in the first four minutes, a deficit Elmira couldn’t recover from.
MAY Elmira church marks 100th anniversary When the first sermon was preached and the opening hymns sang at St. James Elmira Lutheran Church’s new sanctuary on Arthur Street in downtown Elmira, Canadian soldiers were fighting the Great War at the Battle of Ypres, women had yet to win the right to vote and the service was given in German. Some 1,000 people celebrated the dedication at 60 Arthur St. S. on May 5, 1915, which saw the growing congregation move into the church that it continues to use today. The church marked the centenary with a special ceremony May 24.
recommendations to RAC. Woolwich councillors meeting June 16 reviewed the changes, including the terms of reference for the two new groups, giving official approval June 23.
The Elmira Sugar Kings celebrate Apr. 1 after winning the Cherry Cup by defeating the Stratford Cullitons. Hachborn named to biz hall of fame Walter Hachborn, founder of Home Hardware, was inducted as a Companions of the Order of the Business Hall of Fame. The new inductees were honoured for their enduring contributions to the Canadian economy and society. The Order of the Business Hall of Fame is the highest honour of its kind in Canadian business. Each year, business leaders are nominated by their peers and chosen by an independent selection committee representing Canada’s leading business and academic institutions. Rally draws opponents to Breslau park deal While the turnout was relatively modest, sentiment at May 9’s rally against the sale of a significant chunk of Breslau’s Memorial Park for a new school was passionate and one-sided. Some 60 people and a number of young children came out to the Breslau Community Centre for the “Save Our Park” event to show their opposition to the proposed deal between the township and the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. The proposal proved to be the subject of an ongoing division between residents, and between the township and the community. Committee orders audit of Hahn’s election expenses Declaring many questions remain unanswered, a committee reviewing Woolwich councillor Scott Hahn’s election expenses determined May 11 there are grounds for an audit. Members of the region’s Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC) were quick to point out the decision had nothing to do with the Ward 1 representative’s character, but with the incomplete paperwork he had filed. Bauman in limbo pending court appeal Mark Bauman was on the
sidelines pending a court decision on his status as councillor for Woolwich’s Ward 2. The longstanding councillor, returned by acclamation in 2014’s municipal election, failed to submit an expense report by the Mar. 27 deadline. Under the province’s Election Act, that saw him forfeit his seat immediately, but the township held off on a decision until the matter was resolved in court. The review of Bauman’s situation was prompted by a complaint from Elmira resident Alan Marshall, who filed a statement on May 20. Bauman reinstated as Woolwich councillor Mark Bauman returned to the Woolwich council table, as a Kitchener Superior Court judge reinstated him May 28 as the representative for Ward 2. The decision brings some closure to the weeklong saga that saw the township short a councillor, at least technically.
JUNE Private firms step in to clean up dumped waste After a week in limbo, Michelle Shannon and John Weber got a solution to the hazardous waste illegally dumped at their farm on Weeby Place just outside of Conestogo. Since the Ministry of the Environment and the Region of Waterloo waste management division refused to clean up the mess, a pair of private companies stepped in to help. Safety-Kleen, an environmental services company with operations in Breslau, was on site June 3 testing the contents of the 24 rusty barrels mostly unlabeled, with some marked as grease or oily water, on the bumpy farm lane at the edge of the family’s sugar bush a week earlier. Rank teeing up at Pan Am Games Garrett Rank added another milestone to his 2015 schedule
[FILE PHOTO]
this week. The Elmira native was selected by the Canadian Olympic Committee to compete for Canada in golf at the 2015 Pan Am Games. No report cards, says school board Waterloo Region’s 40,000 public elementary school students will not receive yearend report cards, following a controversial decision by the WRDSB. Students were sent home with a letter from the board June 16 informing parents that there would be no grades this year. Instead, they would get a “letter of placement” for the 2015-16 school year. Audit requested for mayor’s election expenses Add Mayor Sandy Shantz to the list of Woolwich councillors scrutinized for their election expenses. Her financial statement was put under the microscope at a July 2 meeting of the Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC). The group got plenty of work in the township, where Ward 1 Coun. Scott Hahn’s election filing is under review and Ward 3 Coun. Mark Bauman was temporarily removed from council for failing to file. Woolwich to axe CPAC for new review format Looking to woo Chemtura and the Ministry of the Environment back into the fold, Woolwich scrapped the citizen watchdog that monitors the Elmira chemical company in favour of a new, less adversarial format. Neither Chemtura nor the ministry has been attending meetings of the current Chemtura Public Advisory Committee (CPAC). CPAC was to be dissolved as of August 31, replaced by two new bodies, the Remediation Advisory Committee (RAC), which will be the CPAC’s direct substitute, and a Technical Advisory Group (TAG), will provide technical advice and
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Report cards, says school board Responding to pressure from concerned parents and students, the Waterloo Region District School Board would hire 40 temporary staff members to get students their marks by Aug. 31. One of the last boards in the province to hold out on a decision to provide grades for the 2014-15 school year’s second term, the board changed its tune June 17. The summary of marks would not include teacher comments, nor be filed in official student records.
JULY No audit of Shantz’s expenses Woolwich Mayor Sandy Shantz, having submitted a new, audited expense report of her spending in the 2014 election, leaned she wouldn’t be subjected to a formal audit. Members of the Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC) meeting July 2 were satisfied with the new paperwork, dismissing the application by Elmira resident Alan Marshall for a review of Shantz’s election filing. Shantz stripped of mayoralty The mayor’s seat in Woolwich was vacant as Sandy Shantz waited for a court date in a bid to be reinstated. Having failed to file an audited statement of election expenses by the Mar. 27 deadline, Shantz was automatically removed from the position under the terms of Ontario’s Municipal Elections Act. Shantz was served a notice of default by the township July 8. The move came less than a week after a Municipal Election
Jacks pick Wellesley’s Brad Gerber as new head coach The Wellesley Applejacks took a local approach, choosing long-time Wellesley residents for their head coach and team captain positions. Brad Gerber was named coach and Justin Lebold given the big “C.” Police make arrest in dumping of toxins in Conestogo A 51-year-old Kitchener man charged with dumping toxic waste at a Conestogo-area sugar bush was remanded in court. Waterloo Regional Police charged Donald William Hector with mischief over $5,000 on July 10, following an investigation into the case of 24 barrels containing oily water, waste grease, acid powders and polychlorinated biphenyl, surreptitiously stashed at the end of a farm lane at Michelle Shannon and John Weber’s Weeby Place property in May. Arrest warrant issued for Todd Cowan An arrest warrant was issued for former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan after he failed to appear in court to answer to charges of fraud and breach of trust. Accused of double billing expenses to the township and Waterloo Region, Cowan did not attend his court date on July 21 despite a court order to attend. His lawyer, Thomas Brock, said he made more than 30 attempts to reach his client before the trial date. Court reinstates Shantz as Woolwich mayor Sandy Shantz was reinstated as Woolwich’s mayor by a court ruling July 23. The proceedings were slightly more complicated than in the case of Coun. Mark Bauman, who was reinstated quickly after being removed from office for similar reasons. The court granted leave to speak to Alan Marshall, whose complaint led to Shantz’s removal in the first place. In the end, Shantz was returned to the office she was forced to vacate on July 8 when the township served her with a notice of default for failing to file the required paperwork Elevated DDT levels found in Canagagigue High levels of contaminants, particularly DDT, found downstream of the Chemtura chemical plant in Elmira warrant quick action, an environmental
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Woolwich post large surplus Woolwich reported a taxsupported surplus of $759,000 in 2014, with most of the funds destined for the township infrastructure reserve fund. Higher than expected tax revenues, principally from the addition to the rolls of the new Waterloo North Hydro building, and larger dividends from the township’s ownership stake in the utility fueled much of the surplus, director of finance Richard Petherick reported to council June 16.
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NEWS | 5
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
watchdog group warned. The Chemtura Public Advisory Committee called for more testing and immediate action to stop contaminants leaking offsite along the plant’s eastern and southern boundaries. Meeting for the last time July 23, the group called on Woolwich to endorse a resolution to be sent to the Ministry of the Environment. Auditors find issues with Hahn’s election expenses Scott Hahn may have contravened the Municipal Elections Act on several fronts, according to a compliance audit of the Woolwich councillor’s election expenses released on Aug. 11. Prepared by Froese Forensic Partners, the report found there was a lack of proper paperwork in relation to campaign signs and brochures prepared by Hahn’s family members. Specifically, there may have been issues with contributions by Tri-Mach Group – owned by Hahn’s father, Michael Hahn – and KKP Waterloo, a printing company owned by his in-laws. Ombudsman calls for changes to Woolwich meetings Woolwich changed how it handles closed meetings of council after the Ontario Ombudsman found the township had violated the rules on several occasions. André Marin’s report, completed in June and tabled at council’s Aug. 11 meeting, includes eight recommendations following his office’s review of the minutes from three specific meeting of councillors (Jan. 13 and 20, Feb. 3) and one meeting of the Chemtura Public Advisory Committee (CPAC) from Aug. 11, 2014). The Ombudsman found a variety of faults, from failing to notify the public of where the in camera sessions would be held to discussing issues that should have been dealt with in open session. Former Woolwich councillor dies in collision Former Woolwich councillor and Elmira realtor Allan Poffenroth died as a result of injuries from a three-vehicle collision east of Palmerston on Aug. 19. He was 68. The crash happened at the intersection of Wellington County Rd. 8 and Wellington County Rd. 9 in Mapleton Township. Poffenroth was the driver and lone occupant of the vehicle. He was transported by Guelph-Wellington Emergency Medical Services to a local hospital then airlifted to Hamilton General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. No legal action against Hahn Woolwich councillor Scott Hahn learned he wouldn’t face legal action over his election expenses, as an audit committee opted Aug. 27 not to send the case to a prosecutor. The majority of the sevenmember Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECA) voted to consider the matter closed. The split was 6-1. The decision came as a relief to Hahn, who had spent the previous few months on tenterhooks as his election filings were first reviewed by MECAC and then referred to an auditor. He grew visibly more relaxed
as successive committee members spoke in favour of ending the matter rather than referring it to the courts.
SEPTEMBER Taskforce split on Breslau school proposal The bulk of the community either opposed or indifferent to the project, a taskforce looking into selling Breslau parkland to house a new Catholic elementary school recommended Woolwich go ahead with it. The split was apparent in the committee itself, with only three of seven voting members in favour, while two are opposed and two undecided even after months of study. Mulling over a report Sept. 8, councillors said they needed more information before making a final decision, aware that the community was divided, with many seeing the deal as a township cash-grab selling out Breslau residents. Region ignores Woolwich, plans to close transfer station Intent on closing the Elmira transfer station over the objections of Woolwich residents, the Region of Waterloo opted to do nothing to help keep the well-used facility going as a private venture. Months after promising to look at options for turning over the transfer station to a private operator, the region sat on his hands instead. Regional council’s planning and works committee voted to mothball the waste stations in all of the rural townships by December 31. The region has no interest in keeping the transfer station going, or even in helping the township maintain a service widely used by residents, Woolwich Coun. Patrick Merlihan, who made a presentation to the committee Sept. 15, said at the time. Sally Draper named ambassador as Wellesley fair gets underway Second time was a charm for Wellesley’s Sally Draper. As a two-time participant, she was chosen as the new WellesleyNorth Easthope Fall Fair Ambassador. The 2014-15 ambassador, Ashley Jeffries, handed over the crown and sash on Sept. 15 at the opening of the fair after judges selected Draper as the winner. Four hopefuls had vied for the title. Regional council axes waste transfer station A last-minute pitch to keep Elmira’s transfer station open pending a handover to a private operator fell on deaf ears at regional council Sept. 23, as councillors voted to close all the rural waste stations by year’s end. Citing decreasing tonnage as it cut back the Elmira facility to a small fraction of its former hours of operation, the region used that as a rationale for cutting the service despite the fact it was widely used. The location saw more than 25,000 visits prior to tampering by regional officials. The closure of all four stations was touted as saving about $208,000 a year, based on the curtailed service levels imposed by the region.
Wellesley finds its new idol Paige Warner was named the 2015 Wellesley Idol at the Wellesley ABC Festival on Sept. 26. She took home $500 for her win. Second place went to Taylor Kelly, third to Brooke Bauer, and fan favourite to Jessie MacDonald. They each received $300, $200, and $125, respectively. Manslaughter plea in Austin Padric death A 22-year-old Elmira man pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the 2013 death of a Heidelberg teen. Austin Padric, 17, died six days after snorting crushed-up morphine tablets at a party in Elmira. Quin Kurtz admitted in a Kitchener courtroom Sept. 28 that he told others not to call 911 even after Padric showed signs of distress. Council says no to plan for school in Breslau park Perhaps heeding the adage that you don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone, Woolwich council opted out of a proposal that would have swapped township land for a new school and improvements to Breslau Memorial Park. While it may not have been paradise at risk of being paved over, residents out at the Sept. 29 meeting were adamant the park was worth saving in its current configuration. In a 3-2 vote, councillors agreed. The proposal floated by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board was for the township to sell it a portion of land in the park. The $1.75-million deal would allow for upgrades to the park and community centre, as well as community access to new facilities, including a 5,000-square-foot library operated by the Region of Waterloo.
OCTOBER Council says yes to plan for school in Breslau park Two votes – one changed, one new – delivered up a chunk of Breslau parkland for a new Catholic elementary school Oct. 4. Coun. Mark Bauman’s vote, coupled with that of Coun. Scott Hahn, who missed the previous week’s meeting, was enough to reverse Woolwich council’s decision about the controversial joint project on township land. The new vote was 4-2 in favour (Patrick Merlihan and Larry Shantz stayed the course), whereas councillors were opposed 3-2 at the Sept. 29 committee of the whole meeting. The decision clears the way for the township to sell a portion of Breslau Memorial Park to the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. $2.4 million towards new child care centre in Elmira Elmira was one of the recipients under the province-wide $120 million Child Care Investment. Some $2.4 million is going towards the now-underconstruction Riverside Public School in Elmira, covering a large portion of the cost to build the new child care centre within the school. The current plan is to fill up 88 spots, housed in five rooms.
Having won re-election in the Oct. 17 federal election, Kitchener-Conestoga MP Harold Albrecht (left) is congratulated by his provincial counterpart Michael Harris at an election night gathering in Kitchener. [FILE PHOTO] Albrecht retains seat as Liberals win federal election As a sea of red swathed Canada in a Liberal majority government on Oct. 17, KitchenerConestoga MP Harold Albrecht held onto his Conservative seat the only blue riding left in Waterloo Region. Voters chose Albrecht over Liberal candidate Tim Louis by just 351 votes, the closest election race Albrecht’s ever faced. He won the riding with 43.4 per cent of the vote. Louis was less than a percentage point behind at 42.6 per cent. With the Conservatives picking up 99 seats across Canada, they’ll be the official opposition – a first for Albrecht, who had served in government since been elected. The Liberals earned a majority government with 184 seats, or 54 per cent of the 338 available. The NDPs will have 44 seats, followed by the Bloc Quebecois with 10, and Elizabeth May holding on to the lone Green seat. Childcare centres to remain open, region decides Parents in Elmira and across the region breathed a sigh of relief after Waterloo Region council voted 14-1 against a consultant’s recommendation to close the five regional childcare centres. The consultant had suggested eliminating the 250 childcare spots, some of which are filled at the Elmira Children’s Centre, in exchange for creating 200 subsidized spots. No further audit of Shantz’s expenses, MECAC says A review committee rejected a request for an audit of Woolwich mayor Sandy Shantz’s election expense claims. It was the second kick at the can for applicant Alan Marshall, whose previous filing had seen Shantz removed from office temporarily, but resulted in no action from the Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC). At the Oct. 26 hearing, MECAC members were unequivocal in dismissing Marshall’s claims for a forensic audit, chastising him for his handling of the matter and his inflammatory written submissions and comments. Cowan turns self in after arrest warrant issued again Failing to appear Oct. 25 at his ‘failure to appear’ hearing, former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan had a warrant out for his arrest ... for the second time that year. His lawyer
Thomas Brock’s subsequent request to be taken off the case as counsel was granted by the judge. Cowan turned himself into the courthouse later that afternoon. Cowan’s case has been before the court since Mar. 3. It had been unable to move forward due to Cowan’s lack of communication with his lawyer. Kings fire coach after skid The team’s losing skid having hit eight games, the Elmira Sugar Kings management made the decision Oct. 30 to fire head coach Jeff Flanagan, making assistant coach Ty Canal the new head coach for the rest of the season.
NOVEMBER Wellesley Township to honour trio of residents as its citizens of the year Community spirit is in such abundance in Wellesley Township that organizers decided to name three Citizen of the Year recipients. John Pym received the Citizen of the Year Award, Derek Brick the Youth Citizen of the Year Award, and Jim Green was awarded the Lifetime Citizen of the Year Award. Cowan trial begins As the fraud trial of former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan got underway Nov. 21, the prosecution painted a picture of someone unfamiliar with expense policies who used his township credit card for personal expenses and did not keep atop of the paperwork. Heidelberg Foods breaks ground on expansion Heidelberg Foods took a step towards nearly doubling the size of their processing plant in St. Jacobs. The fine food producer, owned by Markham’s Jevons Capital Group, broke ground Nov. 25 on a construction project that will add 12,000 square feet to their processing plant. As well as adding square footage, the company will also be taking on an estimated 10 more employees, adding to the group of 30 workers already employed at the plant. Legal, audit costs top $53,300 The poor election expense filings of three Woolwich councillors cost taxpayers $53,300 in 2015.
Mayor Sandy Shantz and Ward 2 Coun. Mark Bauman were both removed from officeor failing to meet deadlines for filing proper paperwork related to the 2014 municipal election. In each case, they applied to the courts for reinstatement. As well, both Shantz and Ward 1 Coun. Scott Hahn faced hearings before the Municipal Election Compliance Audit Committee (MECAC). Of the $53,300 total, staff costs were pegged at $13,475. Out of pocket expenses included $17,350 in legal bills for Hahn, Shantz and Bauman, $15,725 for an audit of Coun. Scott Hahn’s expense and $6,750 in MECAC hearing costs for Hahn and Shantz.
DECEMBER Woolwich gains some time to save Elmira transfer station Facing the closure at year’s end of the Elmira waste transfer station, Woolwich gained another five months to bring on a private operator as the region appears ready to extend a lifeline one last time. Regional council’s planning and works committee voted to keep operating the facility until the end of May. There will be no more reprieves, Mayor Sandy Shantz reported to her Woolwich colleagues meeting Dec. 6. Chemtura quickly contains small chemical spill A chemical spill Dec. 19 at the Chemtura plant was much smaller in scope and scale than the 2010 release of the same chemical. In that incident, some 4,200 kilograms of BLE 25, a mixture of diphenylamine and acetone used as an antioxidant in the making of some rubber products, was sprayed over a swath of Elmira. This time, less than 50 kg escaped, most of it caught up in a containment tank. A small amount made its way into the Canagagigue, but it was collected before leaving the site. Woolwich floats 3.6% tax hike For 2016, township staff is floating an operating budget of $15.3 million and another $12 million in capital spending. To cover that, Woolwich will hit up residents for another $9.4 million in taxes, proposing a tax hike of 3.6 per cent – 2.1 plus 1.5 in a special infrastructure levy. That adds another $25.02 a year to the bill applied to a home assessed at $302,000.
6 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
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Flu cases down, but officials still stress precautions POST-NEW YEAR’S BLAST OF snow and cold aside, the winter has been relatively mild. It’s a welcome reprieve from the past couple of years for those who aren’t fans of the season. Another plus this year has been a reduction in the number of flu cases. There’s been a bug going around since the start of flu season – it runs November to March – but instances are down, as is the severity. The Public Health Agency of Canada notes that influenza A(H3N2) has been the most common subtype affecting Canadians. An increase in the number of influenza A(H1N1) cases – you may recall that strain – were noted as 2015 was winding down. Influenza levels have been below expected levels for this time of the year. That, too, is a welcome relief, as last season saw the highest levels of flu and resultant hospitalizations and death that we’d seen in the past five years. In 2014-15, some 8,000 Canadians were hospitalized due to the flu. About 600 people died. Compare that to 2011-12, for instance, when the relative numbers were 2,000 and 100 to see why officials would be quite happy to see the current low numbers continue right through the season. To date, the majority of influenza laboratory detections and hospitalizations have been in seniors greater than 65 years of age, typically the largest at-risk group. That doesn’t mean, however, that they aren’t warning us to take precautions – that said, the “get a flu shot” push has been much quieter this year. The lessening of both the number of cases and the virulence of H1N1 is also welcome news. The virus is unusual in that it appears to affect younger people more than other strains of seasonal influenza. People aged 20 to 65 are being hit harder than usual, comprising 52 per cent of flu cases. Normally, 80 per cent of people who die from seasonal flu are 65 years of age or older, but during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, between 62 and 85 per cent of those who died were younger than 65. During the H1N1 pandemic in 2009, the virus caused more than 284,000 deaths worldwide, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). At that time, the World Health Organization declared H1N1 as a pandemic virus. However, the virus is now circulating like a seasonal influenza virus. While there’s been a downgrading of H1N1’s impact, we’re still being told to take precautions, beginning with frequent hand-washing. The seasonal flu vaccine remains the best protection against flu viruses. Everyone over the age of six months is encouraged to get the vaccine, argues the Public Health Agency of Canada. The flu vaccine is especially important for those who are more likely to get seriously ill or suffer complications if they catch the flu. Got the shot previously, so think you’re fine? Think again, says the agency. Getting the flu shot every year is important because the vaccine is reformulated annually. Flu viruses are constantly changing and your immunity levels following vaccination decrease over time, which is why a flu vaccine is needed each year. Flu vaccine is made up of the flu strains that research suggests will cause the most illness in each year’s flu season. If those precautions are the biggest worry we’ve got right now, the year is off to a pretty good start.
The first year of the term having been “eventful,” Woolwich council comes up with a few resolutions for the new one. WORLD VIEW / GWYNNE DYER
How might the Islamic wars of religion play out? WORLD AFFAIRS LAST FRIDAY, SAUDI ARABIA’S Sunni Muslim rulers beheaded their country’s leading Shia Muslim cleric, Sheikh Nimr Baqr al-Nimr, on charges of seeking “foreign meddling” in the kingdom. On Saturday, an angry crowd of Iranians – all Shia Muslims, of course – attacked the Saudi Arabian embassy in Tehran. And Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, put a cartoon on his website comparing Saudi Arabia’s head-chopping orgy on New Year’s Day (46 other executions on the same day) to the mass executions carried out by the Sunni extremist ‘Islamic State’ group. So on Sunday, Saudi Arabia broke diplomatic relations with Iran – and all the pundits started talking about the Sunni-Shia “war of religion” that is about to engulf the Middle East. This raises two questions. First, what would a Sunni-Shia war of religion
actually look like? And second, has everybody in the Middle East taken leave of their senses? The first question is best answered by looking at the history of the Christian wars of religion, ca. 15201660. The Muslim world now, like “Christendom” in the 16th century, is made up of many independent countries. And the current phase of the Muslim wars of religion is being fought out between Shias and Sunnis in Iraq, Syria and Yemen, just as the first phase of the Christian wars of religion was fought out mainly between Catholics and Protestants in individual countries. From the start of the conflict in Europe, however, each European state tried to help its co-believers in neighbouring countries as well, and alliances were increasingly shaped by religious considerations. In the second phase, these alliances dragged most of Europe into the catastrophic Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), fought mostly in the middle of Europe but involving armies from as far apart as Sweden and
Spain. The main battleground, Germany, lost between one-third and one-half of its population. Nobody won, of course, and in the very long run everybody just lost interest in the question. But it was a very great waste of lives, time and money. The Muslim world is already caught up in the first phase of a comparable process, but it is not condemned to go the whole distance. One big difference is that the Sunni-Shia split is ancient – more than 1,350 years old – whereas the Catholic-Protestant split was new and still full of passion at the time of the Christian wars. More than 99 per cent of today’s Muslims were simply born Sunni or Shia, whereas many 16th-century Christians had made a conscious choice about their religion. The current killings in the Muslim world are mostly driven by state policy, so maybe Muslims will not throw away a couple of generations following the same foolish, bloody road that the Christians took 500 years ago. Those who live at the
geographical extremes of the Muslim world – Indonesia, Malaysia, and Bangladesh in the East; Morocco, Algeria, Tunisa and even Egypt in the West – will certainly not suffer the same fate, for there are only tiny Shia minorities in these countries. But for those who live in the heart of the Muslim world, from Yemen to Turkey and from Lebanon to Iran, the future may be much darker. And so to the second question: has everybody in the Middle East taken leave of their senses? Not exactly, but many players have lost sight of the bigger picture. George W. Bush’s invasion of Iraq in 2003 unleashed the sectarian demon in the region. The “Arab Spring” of 2011 frightened the region’s dictatorships and absolute monarchies into increased repression and greater reliance on appeals to sectarian loyalty. Then King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia died a year ago, and the kingdom spun out completely. Saudi Arabia under its previous monarchs was DYER | 8
COMMENT | 7
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
THEIR VIEW / QUESTION OF THE WEEK
Do you want to see more winter, or have you had enough?
» Connor Goebel
» Brookelyn Butchart
» Ian Tracy
» Laurie Barnett
» Cheryl Speiran
“More winter.”
“I like winter and we didn’t have much snow for Christmas.”
“More Winter. I want to go snowboarding.”
“More Winter. It just started.”
“I’ve had enough already.”
“And so to the second question: has everybody in the Middle East taken leave of their senses? ” Gwynne Dyer | 6 HIS VIEW / STEVE KANNON
Trudeau’s real test will be delivering reversal of decline of the middle class EDITOR'S NOTES THE PUBLIC IS A forgetful bunch. How else do you explain the repeated lying, cheating and, often, outright stealing that politicians and financial elites get away with? They bank on our poor memories and indifference, knowing we’re easily distracted. New Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already backed away from some of his election promises, which is not a bad thing in some cases, including the refugee issue. The real test will come in his government’s first budget later this year. There, we will get an idea if his extensive talk about the failing middle class was more than just words. Trudeau’s predecessor fuelled the decline of the middle-class, a group that’s been diminishing since the for the better part of four decades. Clearly we’ve learned nothing from the recession created by the financial in-
dustry. Even though we’re technically in a recovery, the only people who have bounced back are the ones who were responsible for the mess. Far from being penalized, they were in essence rewarded for what happened, and appear quite content to keep on doing what they’ve done before. Perhaps they’re convinced they’ll continue to reap the profits while the rest of us will pick up the tab. In successive budgets, the Harper government pushed for lower corporate taxes and transfer of the tax burden to the middleclass. Spending increases were largely partisan, and there was an emphasis on a decidedly American agenda of funnelling money into defence and security contractors. There were many an attempt at deregulation. Lobbyists and special interest groups continue to push for lower corporate tax rates. Competitiveness is the mantra: we’re told taxes must be lower or businesses will flee the province or country, and that new ventures will go
HOW TO REACH US
the Second World War to 1977, the income share of the richest one per cent dropped from 14 per cent to 7.7 per cent; by 2007 they’d made a comeback, as the richest one per cent held 13.8 per cent of incomes; since the late 1970s, the richest one per cent has almost doubled its share of total income; the richest 0.1 per cent has almost tripled its share of total income; and the richest 0.01 per cent has more than quintupled its share of income. The average earnings of the richest 10 per cent of Canada’s families raising children were 82 times that earned by the poorest 10 per cent of families. That is approaching triple the ratio of 1976, when the ratio was around 31 times. The aftertax income gap has never been this high in at least 30 years, and it has been growing faster than ever since the late 1990s. Essentially, we’re spending more time at work, but 80 per cent of us are getting a smaller share of Canada’s economy, in good times and in bad. Only the richest 20 per cent are experiencing gains, and
most of those gains are concentrated in the top 10 per cent. That richest 10 per cent of Canadian families are getting richer. They enjoyed a 30-per-cent earnings increase compared to a generation ago, the only group to experience such gains. This is creating a new phenomenon in income distribution in Canada: the rich are breaking away from the rest of society, in a way not seen since such information began to be collected some 40 years ago. You can expect that trend to continue in earnest, aided by the most recent recession. The wealthy are already recovering nicely, thank you very much, as the financial sector resumes business as usual, as seen by the large increase in the derivatives market – aka speculation. Instead of regulating the industry, eliminating some of the most egregious practices, governments in effect handed a blank cheque to those who caused the meltdown. Now, it will be the average Canadian – those on
the hook for the guarantees and loans – who will cover the costs directly through their taxes and loss of services, and indirectly through the coming decreases in our standard of living. As with drops in corporate taxes and shifts to consumer taxes, the goal is to shift the burden to you. This will continue transferring wealth to those already making the biggest gains while contributing to the debt loads of middleclass Canadians trying to maintain their position as real incomes – both preand after-tax – continue to fall. Things are pretty good at the top, however, as the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives’ annual review of CEO salaries show. By lunchtime on Jan. 1, each of the 100 highest paid CEOs had already received $48,636, what it will take the average full-time worker all of 2016 to earn. Those CEOs took in an average $8.96 million, 184 times more than the average wage in Canada. KANNON | 8
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elsewhere. The argument has been successful, as rates fall year after year, though the promised investment and other dividends rarely appear. Trickle-down economics, of course, is what we’ve been living with for more than three decades. It’s founded on the belief that what’s good for the wealthiest classes is good for everyone. Bank profits are at an all-time high, financial services are raking in billions and corporations have rebounded nicely. Unemployment remains high in much of the West, personal debt levels soar and the standard of living falls. But it’s the latter group that gets to pay for the austerity measures we’re told we need in order to pay for the profits of the former. It’s into that environment that Trudeau must deliver on what was the cornerstone of his campaign: reversing the slide of the middle class. That’s a tall order, and the growing gaps won’t be reversed overnight – inequality has been growing for years, reversing postwar gains. From the beginning of
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8 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
THE MONITOR
VERBATIM
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
two-thirds (69%) of Canadians say they feel positive about their current financial situation, down 5 per cent from a year ago, led by declines in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. While Canadians 55 and older remain the most positive about their finances, they also saw the biggest decline in this year’s survey falling from 82% a year ago to 74% this year.
“The major roadblock is that CETA, as negotiated, lacks sufficient political and public support to be assured of ratification in Europe. It’s fair to say the inclusion of an investor–state dispute settlement (ISDS) mechanism in the deal makes it toxic. The longer this hot-button issue delays CETA ratification, the more the treaty gets caught up in the controversy surrounding the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP).”
An 18-year-old man staying with relatives in Elmira was charged with 10 counts of break-and-enter following a string of break-ins at Elmira businesses. In December, 16 Elmira businesses were broken into. Most were entered by forcing open a door. On several occasions, numerous businesses in the same area were entered on the same night. With most of the break-ins, small quantities of cash or items that are easily converted to cash were taken.
» CIBC poll
» Scott Sinclair, senior trade researcher with the Canadian Centre for Policy
» From the Jan. 10, 2004 edition of The Observer
Alternatives, notes that opposition to international trade deals continues to mount as people discover how toxic they are
DYER: Local struggles for power
NATIONAL VIEW
many not spill out over region
FROM | 6
very cautious and conservative in its foreign policy. It subsidized various extreme Sunni groups in other countries, but it clung tightly to its American alliance and never engaged directly in adventures abroad The new Saudi king, Salman, is 80 years old and infirm, so in practice most decisions are made by his nephew, Crown Prince Muhammad bin Nayef (aged 56), or his son, Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman (aged only 30). There is intense competition between the two men for the succession to the throne, and the decisions
coming out of Riyadh have been much bolder than ever before. The past nine months have seen a major Saudi Arabian military intervention against the Shia side in the Yemeni civil war, the creation of a Saudi-led alliance of almost all the Sunni-majority Arab states, and now the execution of a Shia leader in Saudi Arabia that was clearly calculated to cause a diplomatic breach with Iran. It’s just dynastic politics, in other words, not some inevitable geopolitical juggernaut. But it was similar dynastic politics half a millennium ago that triggered the worst phase of the Christian wars of religion.
KANNON: Key is to making life
better for all, not just a few FROM | 7
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“The total pay package of the 100 highest paid CEOs exceeds the 2014-15 budgetary deficits of every province in Canada except Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland,” says CCPA research associate Hugh Mackenzie, who has been tracking CEO pay since 2006. “What we’ve learned is that the average pay of the top 100 CEOs in Canada has proven to be extraordinarily resilient, in good times and bad.” Mackenzie further notes the CEOs and their corporations routinely at-
tack progressive policies, including pension plans, while doing very well themselves, thank you very much. “Despite their eyepopping pay packages and corporate Canada’s opposition to expanding public pensions, nearly half the top 100 can look forward to equally exorbitant pensions. Those 46 CEOs had pensions averaging $961,000 a year; almost as high as their $1.1 million average base salaries.” Nice start to the year for them, while the rest of us will toil for another 51 weeks for a fraction thereof.
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SPORTS | 9
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
SPORTS HOCKEY / JUNIOR B
Pair of wins help Kings even out their record after long skid Weekend victories over Brantford and Guelph see the team rise towards the middle of conference standings WHITNEY NEILSON ADDING TWO WINS TO their record last weekend, the Elmira Sugar Kings started the new year on the right foot. A 7-5 win over the Brantford 99ers on Saturday, followed by a 2-1 overtime defeat of the Guelph Hurricanes leaves the Kings in the middle of the pack for the Midwestern Conference. Their 15-14-1-4 record means they’re just five points behind Listowel, but also just five points ahead of Brampton. “I thought we played pretty well for the first game back from break,” said head coach Ty Canal. “I think the time away helped our guys recoup and settle down and refresh the mind. Guys came out really playing: they were focused and they were skating well. It was good to see.” In Brantford on Jan. 2, the
Kings were led by Mackenzie MacSorley, who netted a hat trick. Jake Moggy opened the scoring for the Kings on a power play in the first period, helped by Alex Peterson and Jeff Jordan. Brantford’s Christian Polillo fired back with two of his own goals, assisted by Nicholas Durajlija, Guy Polillo (2), and Justin Donnelly to take a 2-1 lead going into the second. MacSorley found the back of Brantford’s net for his first of three at 6:44 in the second. Helpers were Zac Coulter and Ethan Skinner. The 99ers scored again to move ahead of the Kings, after Nick Visser (Jay Dekker) put it past Kings goalie Liam Devine. Elmira put the beating on after that, knocking back three goals in less than a minute and a half. Goal scorers were Ty Biles, Skinner, and MacSorley, assisted by Moggy, Jordan, Ryley Cribbin, and Coulter
THE ELMIRA SUGAR KINGS mixed up their defensive ranks over the holidays, trading two of their defensemen to Cambridge in exchange for two of theirs. Mitch Montgomery and
Harlen VanWynsberghe left the Kings fold and were replaced by Winter Hawks Kalob Witzell and Beau Goehrum. Montgomery also played for the Kings last season and was signed to them in 2014. He previously played minor midget in Cam-
There’s a new bow in town OPEN COUNTRY
Jake Moggy and Rob Kohli rush to celebrate with Zac Coulter after Coulter scored the game winning goal for the Elmira Sugar Kings in overtime versus Guelph on Jan. 3. [WHITNEY NEILSON / THE OBSERVER] (Kyle Soper) scored in the goal from Jordan (Cribbin). (2). first half of the first period “Fortunately we were Brantford’s Matt Scanlin to give them the advantage. (Visser, Guy Polillo) and El- able to put in the puck Late in the second, Hurrimore than they were able mira’s MacSorley (Coulter, cane Stefano Pezzetta (Jake to and it worked out there. Skinner) added one more Wyse, Brody Milne) finally The goals just seemed to apiece to finish the second got his team on the board. bounce in the right way. frame. In overtime, the Kings Those games happen. It Christian Polillo earned were saved by a power play was nice we came out on a hat trick with his third goal from Coulter to secure the right end of it anygoal of the night in the fithe overtime win. He was ways,” Canal said. nal period, assisted by Kyle assisted by Kalob Witzell On home ice on Sunday Walker and Bryce O’Brien. and Quinten Bruce. there was much less scorBut it wasn’t enough as the ing than the night before. Sugar Kings secured their KINGS | 10 Elmira’s Ryan Maksymyk win with a shorthanded
Kings swap pair of defensemen with Winter Hawks WHITNEY NEILSON
NOT SO GREAT OUTDOORSMAN / STEVE GALEA
bridge. He had three goals and 13 assists this season, two of said goals were game winning goals. VanWynsberghe moved up to the Kings last fall, after playing with the Junior C Norwich Merchants in the 2014-15 season. This is Witzell’s last sea-
son of Junior B hockey, as he’ll age out this year. This was his third season with Cambridge before the trade to Elmira. Goehrum started last season with the Brampton Bombers before being traded to Cambridge. He also played in the Junior
A circuit for the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots for part of the 2013-14 season. The new additions had their first games as Sugar Kings last weekend, and so far head coach Ty Canal is pleased.
THIS MORNING I RECEIVED a press release regarding the latest hunting tool that will soon hit the market. It is called the Pioneer Airbow, manufactured by Benjamin, the air rifle people. The Airbow is interesting in that it is essentially a serious, high-powered, scoped, air rifle that utilizes a charge of 3,000 PSI to shoot specially designed arrows – astoundingly well, if the press release is to be believed. This hunting tool we are told is fully capable of killing a bison. It shoots arrows at over 400 feet per second and accurately to 75 yards. In fact, the manufacturer claims it will shoot arrows that will group 2 inches or less at 50 yards. That’s pretty good by anyone’s standards. I’m going to be honest here. This does not appeal to me in the least. Even so, I’m trying to keep an open mind so that I can understand who this will appeal to and why. The manufacturer says it should be of interest to bowhunters who are no longer capable of drawing a bow or cocking a crossbow due to physical limitations. Fair enough. But I’m sure it will catch the eye of others, too. On the plus side, if re-
TRADE | 10
GALEA | 11
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10 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
KINGS: Team now plays home-
and-home series vs. Waterloo FROM | 9
“It was one of those you sort of could feel one bounce was going to change it. The big thing for us was making sure that we just stayed to our game plan and skated and did with what we could do through the game, and just chip away little by little. We were fortunate again to come out on top there. It was one of those that could have definitely gone either way,” Canal said. They’ve got two months left of regular season play to inch up the standings to secure a better playoff spot. He says having home ice for game one and game seven is always a bonus because it helps the players stay calm by playing in their comfort zone. “At this point we can’t control that. We can’t control how the teams ahead of
us or below us are playing. So we’ve got to make sure that how we play is satisfactory and the rest will take care of itself,” Canal said. In preparation for this weekend’s games they’re getting back to basics, preparing on the defensive side of the puck, and practicing limiting shots from the opposing team. They’ve now won four games in a row. “They’re playing well with one another. They’re starting to believe in what we can do and how we can play,” Canal said. The Kings have a homeand-home this weekend, facing the Waterloo Siskins at the WMC on Saturday at 7 p.m., before heading down to Waterloo the next day for a 1:30 p.m. match. They’ve also got their hungryman’s breakfast on Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Elmira Legion.
TRADE: “The two guys came in
and played well for us”: coach FROM | 9
“The two guys came in and played well for us. They hadn’t practiced with us yet, so it was really throwing them into the fire and they responded well. They played together, which was probably a calming factor for them as well. They’re two defensemen who’ve played in this league for awhile, and they’re good. We’ve played against them and our guys have played against them for a few years now, so they came in, played well, they definitely did what we expected to do and we’re looking forward to it,” Canal said. Witzell had one goal and six assists with the Winter Hawks this season before being traded, and earned one assist for the Kings so far. He had four goals and four assists the previous season. Goehrum totaled four goals and four assists with
Mitch Montgomery Cambridge this season. Last season he earned three assists with Cambridge and one goal and two assists with Brampton. “They’re good kids. We sat down for a little bit and talked to them once everything was made, to sort of get them all on the same page that we had hoped and they responded well to it. They’re great kids that want to get better and they want to learn and they want to be a part of the team and they’ll definitely help us in that avenue as well. Any time you can get some veteran players on the backend, it’s a nice added bonus,” Canal said.
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THE SCORE
WOOLWICH WILDCATS
WOOLWICH ATOMS TAKE SILVER AT KITCHENER TOURNEY
Novice: AE Jan. 3 vs Stoney Creek Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Carter Snider (2), Evan Woods Assists: Bryson Rozema, Nathan Dyck (2), Brandon Fishman
Novice: LL #2 Dec. 20 vs Woolwich #1 Home: 5 Visitor: 2 Goals: Lucas Hubbard, Graydon Martin (2), Hunter Lance, Evan Hori Assists: Carter Lipp, Ben Hibbard, Lucas Hubbard
Atom: MINOR A Jan. 2 vs Burlington Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Pacey Camm (2), Eric Kane Assists: Andrew Chumley, Ian Leech, Pacey Camm, Eric Kane
Atom: MINOR AE Dec. 22 vs Brampton Home: 4 Visitor: 1 Goals: Tyson Roth (2), Seth Shantz (2) Assists: Tyson Roth
The Woolwich Wild Atom LL squad won the silver medal at the Jason Cripps Tournament in Kitchener. Front: Makenna Kroetsch. Second row: Claire Jacklin, Emily Martin, Reese Talbot, Bella Roth, Nora Beatty. Third row: Kelsey Brubacher, Hailey Brubacher, Emily Sargent, Karli Gingrich, Kyla Bloch, Katie Brubacher, Alison Martin. Back row: coaches: Joe Jacklin, Ken Martin, Kirby Gingrich, Brad Talbot. [SUBMITTED]
Atom: MINOR AE
Assists: Daniel Grant
Jan. 3 vs Oakville Home: 4 Visitor: 4 Goals: Caleb Paquet, Avery Collingwood (2), Luke Wood Assists: Wade McKenzie, Spencer Hume, Luke Wood (2), Carter Weir, Avery Collingwood, Mitchell Krasovec
PeeWee: MINOR AE
Atom: MAJOR A
PeeWee: MAJOR AA
Jan. 2 vs Oakville Home: 6 Visitor: 4 Goals: Ryan Brubacher, Ethan Martin, Joe Martin (2), Ethan Martin, Isaiah Reitzel Assists: Ethan Martin, Joe Martin, Jordan Chang, Drew Birmingham (2), Eric Hutton, Denver Martin
Dec. 18 vs Orangeville Home: 4 Visitor: 7 Goals: Owen Lee, Spencer Young, Cole Slade, Michael Hayes Assists: Cameron Leonard, Evan Roth, Spencer Young (2), Michael Hayes
Atom: MAJOR A Jan. 3 vs New Hamburg Home: 8 Visitor: 1 Goals: Denver Martin, Joe Martin (2), Ethan Martin (2), Cade Beacom (3) Assists: Eric Hutton (2), Ryan Brubacher, Cade Beacom, Ethan Bickerton (3), Ethan Martin (3), Keenan Martin, Drew Birmingham
Atom: LL #1
Jan. 2 vs Milton Home: 4 Visitor: 0 Goals: William McDougall (2), Joshua Moore, Tristan Kraemer Assists: Sebastian Garrett (3), Tristan Kraemar Shutout: Lynden Blanchett
PeeWee: MAJOR AA Dec. 19 vs Caledon| Home: 2 Visitor: 3 Goals: Owen Lee, Owen Troyer Assists: Easton Gowing, Cole Slade
PeeWee: MAJOR AA Dec. 21 vs Oakville Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Owen Troyer, Nate Snyder, Spencer Young Assists: Owen Troyer, Owen Lee, Easton Gowing
Jan. 3 vs Plattsville Home: 4 Visitor: 3 Goals: Tanner Armstrong, Jamie Ferretti, Jack Rozema, Evan McDowell Assists: Evan McDowell, Carter Harrow
PeeWee: MAJOR AE
Atom: LL #2
PeeWee: MAJOR AE
Dec. 22 vs Twin Centre Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Jonathon Enns (2) Assists: Daniel Grant
Atom: LL #2 Jan. 2 vs Hespeler Home: 3 Visitor: 3 Goals: Jonathon Enns (2), Gabriel Hicknell
Jan. 2 vs Milton 2 Home: 2 Visitor: 3 Goals: Ben Fretz, Danny Soehner Assists: Kieren Oberholzer, Kolin Weigel, Ben Fretz Jan. 3 vs Caledon Home: 4 Visitor: 3 Goals: Keith Mikel, Kolin Weigel, Kieren Oberholzer, Andrew Weber Assists: Liam Moyer, Gavin Wilson, Ben Fretz, Simon Shantz (2), Andrew Weber
PeeWee: LL #1 Dec. 20 vs Hespeler
Home: 7 Visitor: 1 Goals: Turner Duldhardt (3), Ryan Curtis (2), Liam Moyer, Weston Bradley Assists: Ethan Murr, Cole Brubacher, Owen Battler (2), Matthew Kraemer, Weston Bradley, Logan Beard (2), Turner Dulhardt, James McCormick
Bantam: MINOR A Jan. 2 vs Hespeler Home: 6 Visitor: 1 Goals: Cameron Leonard (2), Brett Allen (2), Jake Clemmer, Gavin Roemer Assists: Brett Allen (3), Owen Troyer (2), Trevor Ferretti (2), Ben Witmer, Payton McIsaac, Cameron Martin, Jake Clemmer, Nathan Curtis
Bantam: AE Dec. 16 vs New Hamburg Home: 4 Visitor: 3 Goals: Mackenzie Willms, Tyler Horst, Kyle Deyell, Ryan Parrott Assists: Tyler Horst, Eli Baldin, Jackson Hale, Matthew Thaler
Bantam: AE Dec. 18 vs Guelph Home: 3 Visitor: 0 Goals: Ryan Parrott, Kyle Deyell, Tyler Newton Assists: Jackson Hale, Corbin Kaufman, Ryan Belanger Shutout: Ryan Martin
Bantam: AE Dec. 20 vs Halton Hills Home: 3 Visitor: 8 Goals: Eli Baldin, Jackson Hale (2) Assists: Kyle Deyell, Ryan Belanger, Ryan Parrott, Matt Thaler, Brendan Grant
Bantam: AE Dec. 23 vs Milton Home: 1 Visitor: 0 Goals: Ryan Belanger Assists: Kyle Deyell, Eli
Baldin Shutout: Nick Lee
Midget: MINOR A Jan. 2 vs Owen Sound Home: 4 Visitor: 2 Goals: Chase Mooder, Cole Altman (2), Evan Gowing Assists: Riley Runstedler, John Wang, Evan Gowing, Brad Hale, Isaiah Thornback
Midget: MINOR A Jan. 4 vs Oakville Home: 1 Visitor: 4 Goals: Brent Mulder Assists: Riley Runstedler, Nolan McLaughlin
Midget: LL #1 Jan. 3 vs Plattsville Home: 7 Visitor: 1 Goals: Adam Elliott (2), Max Bender, Nathan Horst, Ben Bishop, Connor Goss (2) Assists: Ben Bishop (2), John Martin, Connor Goss, Max Bender (2), Aaron Crawford, Jeff Talbot, Liam Catton, Nathan Horst
HOCKEY TOURNEYS
Novice: MAJOR Brampton Silver Stick Brampton Dec. 27-29 Game 1 vs Stouffville Home: 6 Visitor: 2 Goals: Josh Frey (2), Sam Ratcliffe (2), Owen Weppler, Cameron Beisel Assists: Owen Weppler (2), Riley Dettweiler (2), Connor Goebel, Josh Carson, Mitchell Roemer Dec. 27 vs Whitby Home: 5 Visitor: 1 Goals: Josh Frey (2), Riley Dettweiler, Danny Schaefer, Ethan Burkholder Assists: Mitchell Roemer (2), Josh Carson, Owen Weppler (2), Connor Goebel, Riley Dettweiler, Sam Ratcliffe
Dec. 28 vs Brampton Home: 1 Visitor: 3 Goals: Sam Ratcliffe Assists: Matthew Darrigan, Keaton Kidd, Jacob Noot
PeeWee: MAJOR AA Stratford Silver Stick Stratford Dec. 28-29 Game 1 vs Stoney Creek Home: 2 Visitor: 2 Goals: Spencer Young, Colton Schmitt Assists: Owen Lee
WOOLWICH WILD
Atom: LL Jan. 2 vs Kitchener Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Alison Martin (2), Kyla Bloch Assists: Hailey Brubacher, Kyla Bloch, Alison Martin
PeeWee: B Jan. 2 vs Guelph Home: 3 Visitor: 3 Goals: Ella Campbell (2), Delaney Keen Assists: Delaney Jacklin, Julia Doerbecker
PeeWee: B Jan. 3 vs North Halton Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Maddy Goss, Ella Campbell Assists: Delaney Keen, Sydney Dettweiler, Ella Campbell
HOCKEY TOURNEYS
Novice: LL 7121 Jason Cripps Christmas Tournament Kitchener Dec. 27-29 Game 1 vs Waterloo Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Brookelynn Kroetsch Assists: Brooklyn Pope, Olivia Weiss Dec. 29 vs Cambridge Home: 1 Visitor: 6
Goals: Brookelynn Kroetsch
Atom: LL Jason Cripps Christmas Tournament Kitchener Dec. 27-30 Game 1 vs Central Perth Home: 2 Visitor: 2 Goals: Alison Martin, Claire Jacklin Assists: Kyla Bloch, Emily Sargent Dec. 27 vs Ayr #1 Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Claire Jacklin Dec. 29 vs Kitchener Home: 8 Visitor: 0 Goals: Claire Jacklin (6), Alison Martin (2) Assists: Hailey Brubacher (2), Nora Beatty (2), Katie Brubacher, Emily Martin, Karli Gingrich, Reese Talbot Shutout: Makenna Kroetsch Dec. 30 vs Ayr #1 Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Claire Jacklin (2), Alison Martin Assists: Emily Sargent, Reese Talbot Dec. 30 vs Ayr #2 Home: 5 Visitor: 1 Goals: Kyla Bloch (2), Claire Jacklin (2), Hailey Brubacher Assists: Alison Martin, Karli Gingrich, Bella Roth, Claire Jacklin
PeeWee: LL 7130 Jason Cripps Christmas Tournament Kitchener Dec. 27-29 Game 1 vs Cambridge Home: 4 Visitor: 2 Goals: Sarah Button (2), Annie Sargent, Lauren Rintoul Assists: Annie Sargent, Sarah Button, Payton Karn Dec. 27 vs Kitchener Home: 1 Visitor: 1 Goals: Annie Sargent
SPORTS | 11
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Jacks start 2016 with hard-fought tie versus Woodstock Coach likes the way his players are gelling heading into the last stretch of the regular season
THE WELLESLEY APPLEJACKS TREATED their fans to a tight battle right to the end on Sunday in their first matchup of 2016. Facing the Woodstock Navy Vets, the Jacks fought through three periods and two overtime frames to finish the game 3-3. “I thought for the first game back after Christmas the guys competed hard,” said head coach Brad Gerber. “They worked hard and competed. Obviously we didn’t finish very well around the net, but overall we’re pleased. We got a point against a team that’s battling with us for fourth place and we’re pleased as a coaching staff.” Woodstock’s Chris Thompson scored less than 90 seconds into the game on a power play, while Wellesley’s Brenden Goran was in the penalty box for interference. Navy Vets assists were Tyler Arsenault and Dylan Wettlaufer. But Goran redeemed himself at the 5:26 mark, tying up the game, helped by Nathan Schlupp. The Navy Vets took advantage of another power play opportunity, with a goal from Braden Hutchison (Jake Schneider, Jack Taylor), to round out the first period. Determined not to be defeated, the Jacks scored their second goal just 13 seconds into the second period to tie it up again. Nick Breault was the goal scorer, assisted by Cal Jefferies and Sean McEwan. Woodstock took the lead again in the third when Hutchison (Dan Haig, Austin Whetham) slipped the puck past Jacks net-minder Ryan Porter.
When “That will never happen to me” happens. Nick Breault goes down fighting for the puck in the 3-3 tie game between the Wellesley Applejacks and the Woodstock Navy Vets on Jan. 3 at the Wellesley arena. [WHITNEY NEILSON / THE OBSERVER] As they continued to rack up penalties, they weren’t able to keep their lead. Wellesley’s McEwan scored on a power play late in the third, assisted by Breault and Justin Lebold to take the game into overtime. But overtime and then double overtime didn’t change the scoreboard, leaving both teams to add one point to their record for a tie. The Jacks took 50 shots on Woodstock’s North Davies, to Woodstock’s 40 on Porter. “You try to keep the shifts short. We did go four lines most of the game. I think the guys were pretty fresh. You’ve just got to keep reminding the guys how big the points are this time of the year, with the last month of the season here and just keep encouraging and trying to get the
best out of them that you can,” Gerber said. The Navy Vets spent a whole lot longer in the penalty box – 50 minutes compared to Wellesley’s 14. And numerous times the referees had to tell the coaching staff to quiet down because they seemed to take issue with every penalty Woodstock got, including two 10 minute penalties for abuse of officials. “We’re still working on our penalty kill, power play, and it’s pretty ironic actually. We worked on overtime, the four on four and the three on three. Coming down in the last month of the season every team is battling for position now for playoffs. All points are important for all teams, so there are going to be close games and a lot of overtime games probably. So I think if you can learn to play well
four on four and three on three in overtime those extra points come in handy,” Gerber said. The last time the two teams squared off, Wellesley won 3-1. The Jacks are fifth in the league, but Norwich and Woodstock are close behind. All three teams have 28 points, but Wellesley has more games left to play. They’ll need another five points to compete for the fourth place spot, currently held by Tavistock. “Right now we do have a 23 man roster and everybody’s healthy, knock on wood. We’re hoping for the most part we can go with four lines and get in and get some guys out of the lineup, rest them, so we won’t have to ask all the guys at least to play all three games all three weekends. It’s just staying
GALEA: Bowing out due to taking a traditional approach to bows FROM | 9
ports are true it shoots an arrow marginally better than a good crossbow and it is more compact, which could come in handy in some tree stands and ground blinds. It’s also a new kind of toy, which has a certain appeal for some of us. On the negative side, it requires specially coated proprietary arrows to work at its best. And, if I understand it correctly, it gets 8 shots a charge. Also, with our current hunting regulations, I doubt it would currently be legal
cially in the dressing room and off the ice, they’re a very tight-knit group and they get along very good, which is very important for any hockey team,” Gerber said. The Jacks have a busy weekend ahead of them with a trip to Ayr tonight (Thursday) to face the Centennials, followed by two home games on Friday and Saturday versus Burford and Norwich. The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. for all three matches.
healthy and playing four lines is important, so come the Sunday games you’re still fresh. But it is a lot of hockey for the boys,” Gerber said. And with four months behind them and just one more to go before playoff season, Gerber says the coaching staff’s pleased with how well the team’s come together. “At the beginning of the season you could see we had a good group, but as the season’s gone on, espe-
WHITNEY NEILSON
during Ontario’s bow seasons since our regs are very specific about draw lengths and poundages at full draw. Lastly, it will retail at US$849 – not that we outdoors folks balk at spending that sort of money, if we feel the return is worthwhile. Those are the pros and cons as I see them. I certainly won’t judge others for liking or disliking this unit. But I will say, at first blush at least, it’s not for me. I’ll stick with my good old longbow and the bowhunting traditions that ac-
company it. I still use crossbows and compound bows on occasion, but I spend most of my time afield with a longbow. Like my choice of bow, my reasons are pretty simple. I got into bowhunting because of the challenge. For me, at least, that’s what makes it fun. It is precisely because it is harder to get close to a deer or other game animal, then wait for the correct shot angle, and come to full draw undetected, that I find these archery hunts interesting. Almost all of the deer I
take with my bow are at distances under 20 yards. When those opportunities do not materialize – as they often don’t – I still see lots of wildlife and get to watch deer in their natural environment, which teaches me more about the animal and its behaviour, so I still get a lot out of each hunt. I could be wrong, but I think that a hunter would miss out on one glorious and entertaining learning curve if this is the hunting tool they started off with. Then again, depending on your viewpoint, I might be full of hot air.
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12 | VENTURE
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
VENTURE FOOD FOR THOUGHT/ OWEN ROBERTS
NEW DIRECTION / DUE FOR A FACELIFT
Looking to local food for health benefits in 2016
There are changes in store for the Village Shoppes in Elmira Some tenants moving out as owners make plans to renovate the space WHITNEY NEILSON INCREASING BUILDING MAINTENANCE COSTS and a struggle to attract businesses has inspired the property owners of the Village Shoppes in Elmira to begin discussions with the township, the BIA, and current tenants about how best to renovate it later this year. Flow Café has already left, and announced on Dec. 21 they would not be reopening, but instead focusing on their coffee catering business. “A rumor has been floating around about our business potentially closing and we are writing in response to that. Our landlords have decided they will not be offering us a new lease and therefore we are uncertain of the future of our business in 2016 and beyond,” they posted on their Facebook page. Gavin Fitzpatrick, vicepresident of business development at The Kain Group, declined to comment on which businesses will be staying in the building, stating they’re still in the early stages of figuring that out. “They’re leaving,” Fitzpatrick said of Flow Café. “There’s at least two others at this point. We’re still in discussions.” The Kain Group took over the property in 2010, which houses other businesses such as Schelter Office Plus,
FIELD NOTES
building. It’s kind of interesting that it’s so beautiful on the inside and it’s being covered in blue wood on the outside,” Fitzpatrick said. The building was built as Brox’s Olde Town Village and many moons ago was a popular tourist destination, with busloads of tourists coming to shop and eat at the restaurant. “Right now it’s at best being sort of badly underutilized,” Fitzpatrick said. They’d like to show off the building in all its postand-beam glory. By bringing some “light” into it
YOU’VE LIKELY HEARD SOME tasty food trend predictions for this year, above and beyond higher prices for food. For example, you might find yourself snacking on, among other things, a helping of insects ground into powder. They’re touted to be low-cost, environmentally sound and nutritious. And in a powered form, they’d be easy to slip into a variety of other dishes. What a way to surprise your dinner guests! As well, for the first time, you might also be dining on Ontario-raised shrimp – which an entrepreneur has received provincial support to develop, in a converted pig barn – as an alternative to imported shrimp raised under questionable environmental conditions. It’s part of what University of Guelph agri-food economist Sylvain Charlebois calls choosing values over value, making food choices on the basis of your own values about animal welfare, food production or ethics, versus choosing food mainly on price, which has traditionally been the driver for most people.
SHOPPES | 13
ROBERTS | 13
Once the popular Brox’s Olde Town Village, the building on the corner of Church and Arthur streets in Elmira will be undergoing renovations later this year. Woolwich Total Health Pharmacy, and the Village Pet Food Shoppe. Schelter Office Pro, and the Village Pet Shoppe confirmed on Tuesday they’re both looking for new locations. Fitzpatrick says the 20,000-square-foot building is less than half full. “A lot of that is related to the cost of the building, the maintenance costs of the building have gone up quite a bit,” Fitzpatrick said. He says the tenants share common area fees, which are “pretty expensive” in that building. Those include things like hydro and snow clearing.
They’re hoping to make the building more energy efficient as part of the renovations. “We’ve sort of gotten into a bit of a rut with the building in the last little while, in that it hasn’t been full. We’ve had a few tenants in it and it’s kind of been a perfect storm where we’ve got these tenants in the building, the building maintenance costs have gone up quite a bit over the last few years and so we were looking at the building thinking we need to do something with this building to make it a little bit more successful for us, for the people in it, and obvi-
ously for Elmira as well,” Fitzpatrick said. They started looking at how they could renovate the building two months ago. He says when they found out a couple tenants were leaving that pushed them to move a bit faster. They’re hoping by making it look more attractive on the outside they can attract more businesses. “To be quite blunt the look of the building on the outside, it’s not inviting. If you look at a lot of retail buildings they have a glass front door or some sort of window so that you can see into the building. Ours is very much a wood covered
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VENTURE | 13
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
ROBERTS: Health properties of many crops provide producers with plenty of new opportunities FROM | 12
Of course, when you choose not to buy food from struggling farmers in developing countries, you’re making a value decision there as well. It’s a gray area, unless exporters can tell compelling stories about food coming from a sustainable coop or production system, one that truly supports farmers. For me, the waning days of 2015 ended with a call from my long-time family doctor in Fergus, drawing my attention to some recent blood work results. They showed that for the
toes, for example, are also renown as superb antioxidants. Brightly coloured berries – blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and cranberries, among them – likewise have numerous health-related properties including cholesterol control. So do beans, carrots, apples, nuts, garlic, fish, grapes, and to some extent, the end product of fermented grapes, wine. Many of these commodities can be grown in Ontario, and are. Other important commodities predominantly come from other parts of Canada,
first time, my cholesterol was rising. It’s still controllable by exercise and diet, but it needs to be addressed, now. I know what to do, exercise-wise. But this had never been a dietary concern. So with that in mind, where was I to turn? Well, when it comes to food with potential health benefits, it turns out Ontario farmers have the prescription I need. And I don’t have to look far. In fact, my daughter and son-in-law, who farm near Thamesville, are major producers of a significant
cholesterol-lowering staple food, soybeans. They and about 28,000 other Ontario farmers have made soybeans the province’s biggest cash crop. It gets better. Earlier in 2015, the Ontario Grain Farmers organization, which represents soybean, corn and wheat growers, expanded by becoming officially affiliated with another of the best cholesterol-lowering crops on the face of the Earth, oats. This affiliation gave oat producers the potential to advance their crop through the kind of research
support that’s available through organizations such as the Ontario Grain Farmers. Nutritional scientists at the University of Guelph have long touted the benefits of oats; through research, plant breeders can help develop varieties that grow best in Ontario conditions. As my wife Angi and I did some further research, we discovered more and more Canadian farm products with cholesterollowering properties, as well as a few other benefits. The list starts with fruit and vegetables. Toma-
when they built it but the layout is a little bit odd right now,” Fitzpatrick said. He says aside from their building and one other, all the downtown properties are usually full - an abnormality for a small town downtown. “We’ve been engaged with the BIA, we’ve talked to the township. And we’re continuing to do that, meeting with a number of stakeholders and businesses. We want to make sure what we do fits into the downtown. What we don’t want to do is decide that we have a pur-
pose for the building and then the downtown doesn’t need that,” Fitzpatrick said. He said the businesses staying in the building will remain open during construction, but they might move around inside. They’ve got an architect engaged and once they know who’s staying and who’s going they’ll decide where to put them. “We’re trying to make sure we fully understand what will succeed there for us, for the tenants, and for the city. And then that’s what we’ll move forward with.”
Some of the building’s tenants have already left, with others set to follow.
particularly canola oil and salmon. In fact, only a few of the often-mentioned commodities for lowering cholesterol come from abroad, such as matcha tea, avocados, dark chocolate and olive oil. Other food products from Canadian farms, such as lean meat and a host of other commodities, have vital roles in health maintenance too. As nutrition experts repeatedly say, it’s all about balance. Now, I’m waiting to hear what they have to say about insects.
SHOPPES: Building’s structure makes for some challenges, but it has a unique character FROM | 12
they’re hoping to fill it back up with tenants. “Most of the buildings that people build nowadays are metal, they’re either a concrete or metal frame and then the building goes up from there. They throw some windows on the front. That is a much easier beast to work with, but we think we can do something much better with this because it’s got that unique character. So we’re pushing toward making that the centerpiece of the building again. They certainly had a good vision
THE JANUARY CLEARANCE
EVENT NT SALE STARTS MONDAY JANUARY 11
WE ARE CLEARING END-OF-LINES, DISCONTINUED & SLOW MOVING PRODUCTS IN ALL DEPARTMENTS
STORE HOURS:
Mon - Fri 7 to 6 Sat 8 to 5 Sun 12 to 5
1420 KING ST. N, DOWNTOWN ST. JACOBS | 519-664-2905
[WHITNEY NEILSON / THE OBSERVER]
14 | THE ARTS
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
THE ARTS ON STAGE / MUSICAL THEATRE
Polish up your disco dancing shoes A gyrating case of Saturday Night Fever sets in at Drayton Entertainment’s Dunfield Theatre Jan. 26-27 WHITNEY NEILSON IF A DANCING JOHN Travolta ever made you swoon or if you can’t help but tap your toes when the Bee Gees come on, then Drayton Entertainment’s got the show for you. Saturday Night Fever comes to the Dunfield Theatre in Cambridge for four shows only in January, as the show tours throughout Canada and the U.S. Executive director Steve Roth says advance ticket sales are good and they expect to sell out. “We try our damnedest to keep the venues as active we can. This was just an opportunity that came to us to present the touring of Saturday Night Fever. We thought what an awesome opportunity. When they called our theatre was dark, there was nothing going on. It was just a good marriage. The show will be a ton of fun,” Roth said. The musical is based off the 1977 film, which saw Travolta shoot to stardom and the repertoire of disco songs become one of the
best selling soundtracks of all time. For those unfamiliar with the story, Tony Manero finds refuge from his monotonous life by dancing his Saturday nights away at a local discotheque. In amongst the singing and dancing are issues of race, abortion, suicide and love. “When people think of Saturday Night Fever you think of the disco era. Almost all the songs from the original movie soundtrack are included in the musical. That would mean there are a lot of Bee Gees. Staying Alive, Jive Talking, You Should Be Dancing, these are some of the best songs ever written. All that music’s included and it’s a great opportunity to hear it and see it live. I think if you’re familiar with the movie you’ll certainly get the same kind of story. It’s really a homage to that great music of that time,” Roth said. Since the film has become such a cult classic, they’re hoping this will bring in a wide range of audiences. Drayton has
The iconic Saturday Night Fever musicals rolls into town later this month with four performances at Drayton Entertainment’s Dunfield Theatre in Cambridge on Jan. 26 and Jan. 27. [SUBMITTED] never produced Saturday Night Fever before. Roth says they know their audiences and what works and what doesn’t for them. But when offered the chance to present the musical, artistic director Alex Mustakas agreed it would work
here. “We’ve been talking about this for awhile here at Drayton Entertainment, we’re lucky enough to produce some great stuff and we’ve got these awesome venues, the seven venues across our umbrella of the-
We are pleased to introduce Rachel Dingle Ph.D., M.Cl.Sc.
atres. We do a pretty good job of keeping the theatres busy for a good majority of the time. The other thing we’re proud of is we’re able to provide our community with a chance to use the venues for different community choirs, concerts,
productions as well,” Roth said. The musical first hit the stage in 1998 and made its way to Broadway in 2000. Roth said it’s had a bit of a “facelift” since it was originally created, and it’s on its second coming. “I think there is a broad appeal to this. Whether you see the movie or the stage production it’s really about the music. This music is just so great and so timeless and sometimes I know disco went through a tough phase, but now over time it’s really getting honored as some of the best music ever written,” Roth said. Saturday Night Fever hits the Dunfield Theatre in Cambridge on Jan. 26 and 27 for four shows. Show times are 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $44 for adults, $26 for youth under 20 years, and $36 for groups of 20 or more people. You can purchase them at the box office, at www.dunfieldtheatrecambridge.com, or by calling (519) 621-8000 or toll free 1-855-DRAYTON (3729866).
80 Years of Combined Experience!
Rachel Dingle received her honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2005 and continued on to complete a Masters (2008) and a Doctorate (2012) at Dalhousie University. She has recently co-authored a chapter in the 7th edition of The Handbook of Clinical Audiology. In 2015, she received a Masters of Clinical Science in Audiology from Western University. Rachel is the most recent addition to our Ear and Hearing Clinic team and will be working at our Elmira and Palmerston locations.
ELMIRA 519-669-4425
w w w.earandhearingclinic .com
The Clock Tower Wellness Centre Juliane Shantz
B.A. (Hons), M.CI.SC, AuD, Doctor of Audiology
Born & Raised in Elmira Grand daughter of Levi & Melinda Shantz • Supporting Community for 20 years. • •
AD FEATURE | BRAND NEW YOU | 15
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Lash Extensions
Ion Cleanse Nutritional Counselling
Registered Massage Therapy
Facial Treatments
Reiki Reflexology Meditation
DevaCuts for Curly Hair
Hairstylists:
Lori
Estheticians:
Tamara
Amanda
Natalie
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Jessica
(Apprentice/Front Desk)
Nicole
Donna
Front Desk:
Other Services:
Erin
Tanya RMT
www.guysanddolls.ca 519-669-8234
Elizabeth
Reiki/Reflexology/ Meditation
Darlene
Ion Cleanse/ Nutrition (Holistic)
16 | AD FEATURE | BRAND NEW YOU
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
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Our Registered Physiotherapists will conduct a comprehensive assessment to diagnose your injury and create an individualized treatment program for you to achieve and maintain your health for 2016 and beyond.
Book with one of our Registered Physiotherapist’s today and start the NEW YEAR with a NEW YOU!
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Assessment and treatment for a wide range of injuries and conditions including: • Sport, work and motor vehicle related injuries • Neck and back pain / Arthritis Management • Post-surgical rehabilitation
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CLASSIFIED | 17
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
CLASSIFIED DEADLINE:
WEDNESDAYS BY 10AM
HELP WANTED
AUCTIONS AUCTION SALE OF Antiques, collectibles, household goods and miscellaneous items, to be held at the K.W. Khaki Club, 2939 Nafziger Rd. 2 miles south of Wellesley, for Wayne & The Late Lorraine Roth, New Hamburg and additions, on Saturday, January 16th @ 10:00 a.m. Gerber Auctions Ltd. 519-699-4451.
BUS WASH/ CLEANING PERSON
Truck and Coach Technician or Apprentice to join our team. This individual will be motivated, dedicated, energetic and career driven. They will be eager to embrace new technology and thrive on diagnostic challenges. They will also have a good working knowledge of general maintenance and repair. We service and repair all makes and models with the best diagnostic and shop equipment available. We are a friendly, family business that places high value on all our customers and staff. We provide ongoing training programs. We offer wages that are among some of the best in the industry, with a generous benefits package. We look forward to hearing from you. Please email resume to Kirby@thurtransport.com or fax to 519-669-0164
HELP WANTED
Our St. Jacobs Distribution Center currently has the following opportunity...
Full-time Straight Truck Driver You are responsible to the Dispatcher for delivering merchandise to stores in the Greater Toronto Area and picking up merchandise from suppliers for the Distribution Centre, while complying with all government and safety regulations. Acting as an ambassador for Home Hardware Stores Limited, you will load and unload in a courteous and helpful manner. You will also fuel, wash and inspect the vehicle and trailer to ensure safe operation. You have two years’ experience, an AZ licence, a clean driver’s abstract and CVOR. Travel throughout the Greater Toronto Area is required. We offer a competitive salary and great working conditions. If you are interested in becoming part of Home Hardware, please forward your resume, quoting Truck Driver (#901DI), by Friday, January 15, 2016 to: Human Resources Department, Home Hardware Stores Limited, 34 Henry St. W., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0 E-mail: hr@homehardware.ca (Microsoft Products Only)
FOR SALE
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
TIRED OF PAYING the high cost of cable or satellite TV? If you have an internet connection you can get FREE TV. Call or text 226-336-2010. www.cutthecordtoday.ca
Licensed 309A Electrician Required Loving God … Loving our Neighbour We are a welcoming local church looking for an Administrative Assistant to support our staff in planning and delivering programs within our church and throughout our community. The successful candidate is energetic, enthusiastic, and organized with excellent skills in the following areas: writing, Word and other Microsoft Office software, clerical accuracy, bookkeeping, and social media. Skills in website maintenance and computer network administration are also highly valued. The Administrative Assistant works four hours per day from Tuesday through Friday at a competitive hourly wage. Attendance at Sunday morning worship services is not required. We do expect a respect for Christian values and a person who enjoys working in a church setting.
Please apply to fmcjobsearch2016@gmail.com by January 26. Please check www.floramc.org for a complete job description.
Require Experience Installing rigid conduit. Must be able to read drawings and turn into finished jobs. Require WHIMIS, Fall Arrest Training, and Skyjack / Lift training certification. Experience running small jobs desirable. Travel to Job-Sites required. Benefit plan and company sponsored RRSP after 3 months. Please direct resumés to: Tim Ropp Operations Manager Ziegler Electric Ltd. 101 Bonnie Cres. Elmira, ON N3B 2Z5 FAX: 519-669-1343 HELP WANTED
Full Time Auto Parts Inside Sales Representative
IS HIRING!
Napa Auto Parts - Elmira Auto Supplies - Elmira, ON We are looking for an inside sales representative who has extensive experience in either auto parts sales or vehicle repair. You offer a great personality, computer experience, the ability to thrive under pressure and a Valid Driver’s License with clean Abstract. We offer an above average salary, benefit package, and a great work environment. Please email resume to rgood@napacanada.com
HOW TO REACH US
MACHINE OPERATOR Based in Elmira - Night Shift. Benefits & overtime available. FULL TIME Jobs@krumsinc.ca Fax: 519-669-4433
hr@homehardware.ca
Thur Heavy Truck and Trailer Repair is looking for a
KIWANIS TRANSIT is the Specialized Transit Service for Woolwich, Wellesley and Wilmot Townships. We have a part-time evening position in Elmira that requires a minimum F license. Must have a clean driving abstract. Position involves interior and exterior cleaning of buses with an average of 10 + hours a week depending on season. Please send resume ONLY to email or address noted below by Friday, January 15, 2016. No phone calls please. Only applicants successful for an interview will be contacted. jobs@k-transit.com Kiwanis Transit, 13 Industrial Dr. Unit #C Elmira ON N3B 2L9
HELP WANTED Full & Part Time
SERVERS Day & Evening
DISHWASHER Apply in person with resumé to 39 Arthur St. S., Elmira ON TRAINING & LESSONS PIANO LESSONS AVAILABLE. 1 hour or 45 minutes in length. All ages and levels welcome. Call 519-669-5046.
HEALTH CARE BOWEN THERAPY YOUR choice for effective treatment of specific health conditions or wellness maintenance. KEVIN BARTLEY, Professional Bowenwork Practitioner, Clock Tower Wellness Centre, 69 Arthur St. S., Elmira. 519-669-0112. Every Body is Better with Bowen!
FOR SALE BOYS HUSKY WRANGLER Jeans. Blue and black, sizes 10 - 16. $24 ea. 519-638-5037. SOFTNER SALT - 20kg bags, minimum 25 bags, skid lots of 56. Delivered in St. Jacobs, St. Clements, Elmira & Linwood areas. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141 or 519-6692045. SPENT HENS/SOUP HENS for sale. $2 each you pick up. 519-465-8185.
AUCTIONS SAT. JAN. 9 at 12:00 noon. Auction sale of charming brick house; household effects; appliances; antiques; furniture and miscellaneous items to be held at 2678 Herrgott Rd in St. Clements for Harold Voison. Jantzi Auctions Ltd, 519-656-3555. www.jantziauctions.com TOY AUCTION OF Farm, tractors, industrial, tractor trailers, coin banks, older toys, and related items, to be held at the K.W. Khaki Club, 2939 Nafziger Rd. 2 miles south of Wellesley, for the Donald MacDonald Estate, Hickson & additions, on Saturday, January 9th @ 10:00 a.m. Gerber Auctions Ltd. 519-699-4451. WED. JAN. 13 at 10:00 AM. Clearing auction sale of furniture; antiques; household effects; collectables; miscellaneous items to be held at the St. Jacobs Community Centre in St. Jacobs for Gloria and the estate of Wayne Bowman of Listowel with additions. Jantzi Auctions Ltd, 519-656-3555. www.jantziauctions.com
SAT. JAN. 16 at 10:00 AM. Toy auction of farm toys; precision; tractor trailers; Nascar; banks; literature; and other collectables to be held at the St. Jacobs Community Centre for local collectors. Jantzi Auctions Ltd, 519-6563555. www.jantziauctions. com WED. JAN. 20 at 10:00 AM. Clearing auction sale of furniture; antiques; tools; household effects; collectables; and miscellaneous items to be held at the St. Jacobs Community Centre in St. Jacobs for a Waterloo area estate with additions. Jantzi Auctions Ltd. 519-6563555. www.jantziauctions. com
AUCTIONS AUCTION SALE OF antiques, collectibles, military, household goods, tools and miscellaneous items, to be held at the K.W. Khaki Club, 2939 Nafziger Rd. 2 miles south of Wellesley, for Mark and Denise Mayer, Gads Hill, and the Bill Mayer Estate, on Saturday, January 23rd @ 10:00 a.m. Gerber Auctions Ltd. 519-699-4451.
FARM EQUIPMENT DAIRY EQUIPMENT FOR sale. 700 gal. milk cooler, almost new plate cooler, pipeline & milders, TMR power feed cart, calf hutches, 4’ fans, now system, feed bins, blue harvester silo. Call Randy at 519-589-6800.
FARM SERVICES BAGGED PINE SHAVINGS Agricultural Spray Lime, 22.5kg. bag; feed grade lime, 25kg. Delivered. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-5744141 or 519-669-2045. CONTINUED ON PG. 18
PHONE 519.669.5790 | TOLL FREE 1.888.966.5942 | FAX 519.669.5753 | ONLINE WWW.OBSERVERXTRA.COM
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In person, email, phone or fax submissions are accepted during regular business hours. Deadline for Thursday publication is Wednesday by 10 a.m. All Classified ads are prepaid by cash, debit, Visa or MasterCard. Ask about Observer policies in regard to Display, Service Directory and Family Album advertising.
18 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
“PROUDLY REMEMBERING OUR PAS T; CONFIDENTLY EMBRACING OUR FUTURE.”
Community Information Page
P.O. Box 158
24 Church St. W. Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z6
The Township of Woolwich will be organizing an Agriculture/Agri-Business Task Force to learn about and discuss: • what’s working and what’s not with current practices & policies; • what people involved in Agriculture/ Agri-Business are trying to achieve; 519-575-4400 www.woolwich.ca • what success looks like to people involved in Agriculture/Agri-Business; and,
Phone: 519-669-1647 or 877-969-0094 Fax: 519-669-1820 After Hours Emergency:
• what the Township can do to support Agriculture/Agri-Business. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Laurel Davies Snyder, Economic Development & Tourism Officer, 519-669-6020, ldaviessnyder@woolwich.ca
Notice of Change of Meeting Location The Township of Woolwich’s regularly scheduled Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday January 12, 2016 will be held at the: Breslau Community Centre 100 Andover Drive, Breslau at 6:00 P.M Agendas will be posted at www.woolwich.ca on Friday January 8, 2016. Further questions or concerns can be directed to: Kiera Schlueter at (519) 669-1647 ext. 6115 (toll free877-969-0094, Ext. 6115) or by email at kschlueter@woolwich.ca
COMMITTEE OF ADJUSTMENT NOTICE OF HEARING
PROPERTY AUCTION
AUCTION SALE
SATURDAY JAN. 9 AT 12:00 NOON CONSISTING OF A charming brick bungalow with 4 plus bedrooms; kitchen with quality oak cupboards; living room with large window; 4 pc bath; entranceway with breezeway and skylight, doors to back patio; finished basement has: large family room; bedroom; laundry area; utility room; 3pc bath. Attached 2 car garage; attached single car garage. Roof was done approx. 2 years ago. Many great features including central air; central vac; heated by a gas forced air furnace, water softener; cedar lined closet; hardwood flooring; concrete driveways; nice outdoor patio. Large corner lot with cedar rail fencing, nice landscaping and flower beds.
NOTE: AN exceptional property in a sought after residential neighbourhood; house is in impeccable condition and well maintained. Open house Saturday December 19 from 12noon to 2pm or by appointment.
TERMS: PROPERTY will be sold at 12:30pm
subject to a reasonable reserve bid with $20,000.00 down payment due by certified cheque (payable to Jantzi Auctions Ltd.) and the balance in 60 days.
CONTENTS TO BE sold at 12 noon: Amana
fridge with bottom freezer; Kenmore ceramic top stove; washer and dryer; bookcase; 2 desks; china cabinet; 2 wing back chair; oak stand; ¾ bed with matching dresser; couch and chair; 2 recliners; pine bookshelf; table and chairs with leaves; china cabinet; safe; old crocks; benches; lawn chairs; bakers rack; Jobmate drill press; variety of lawn and garden tools.
AUCTIONEER:
Wellesley | 519-656-3555
The Committee will also consider submissions for or against the applications if submitted to the Township of Woolwich no later than 5:00 p.m. on January 19, 2016. Submissions can be forwarded to Jeremy Vink at the address noted at the top of this page, by email jvink@woolwich.ca or by fax 519-669-4669. MINOR VARIANCE APPLICATION A 1/2016 – Elizabeth and Andrew Gingrich, 21 Glasgow Street South, Conestogo The applicant is requesting permission to reduce the building line setback adjacent to Elgin Street from 6.0 metres to: • approximately 3.1 metres to the proposed dwelling addition, and • approximately 4.6 metres to the proposed garage addition, to permit the construction of a multi-level dwelling addition including a two car garage. The property contains a single family dwelling and accessory shed and is zoned Settlement Residential (R-1).
NOTICE TO RESIDENTS TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Township of Woolwich intends to discuss the draft 2016 budgets as required by section 290 of the Municipal Act, 2001, as amended: • Tax-supported operating budget; and • Tax-supported capital budget; at three special budget meetings on January 14th, January 21st and January 28, 2016, each commencing at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 24 Church Street West, Elmira. “PROUDLY REMEMBERING PASTownship T; CONFIDENTLY The Draft Budget Highlight Report is available to view OUR on the website.EMBRACING OUR FUTURE.” P.O. Box 158
24 Church St. W. Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z6
Township of Woolwich Technical Advisory Group (TAG) Wednesday, January 13, 2016 Council Chambers, 2nd Floor Administration Building, 24 Church Street West, Elmira 6:30 p.m. Public Meeting Phone: 519-669-1647 or 877-969-0094 Fax: 519-669-1820 After Hours Emergency:
AUCTIONS
Jantzi Auctions Ltd.
On January 25, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. the Committee will meet to consider the following applications. All persons interested in the applications may attend and may contact Nancy Thompson regarding meeting details or visit the Township Webpage – News and Events – Current Public Notices.
Community Information Page Notice of Public Meeting
AUCTIONS
To be held at 2678 Herrgott Rd St. Clements for Harold Voisin on:
Township of Woolwich Agriculture / Agri-Business Task Force
Richard Petherick, CPA, CMA Director of Finance & Treasurer
CLASSIFIED ADS CONTINUED | AUCTIONS | PUBLIC NOTICES
519-575-4400 www.woolwich.ca
www.JantziAuctions.com
HELP WANTED Eldale Machine & Tool is a manufacturer of hubs and spindles, as well as a custom machine shop. Located in Elmira, Ontario, we presently have an opening in our SHIPPING/RECEIVING department. Responsibilities for this position include the following: • Assist with the flow of goods throughout the production and warehouse areas • Staging, loading and unloading trucks • Order picking and preparation for shipping • Completion of necessary documentation • Inventory control • Unpacking/unloading and inspection of received goods • Maintaining a clean working environment • Includes various other warehouse duties Applicant must: • Have forklift license with experience • Be able to do some heavy lifting • Be computer literate • Have experience in a shipping/receiving environment
Please forward resume to: dave@eldalemachine.com
Antiques, collectibles, household goods and miscellaneous items, to be held at the K.W. Khaki Club, 2939 Nafziger Rd. 2 miles south of Wellesley, for Wayne & The Late Lorraine Roth, New Hamburg and additions, on
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16TH @ 10:00 A.M.
ANTIQUES:
Bow front pine corner cupboard, early graining over original orange, rat tail hinges. Refinished Hoosier with sugar & flower bin – nice. 2 drawer cherry and maple lamp table, excellent. Early birch tilt top 3 board parlour table, original hardware. Drop leaf & parlour tables. Press back rocker. Butternut footstool, dovetailed case. 4 full Hoosier sets (includes 3 green set!). Refinished wheel barrow scale – excellent. 9 motion lamps. Eby pie plate (cherry). 19in. tall Ross Butler signed horse statue, good condition. Nicely framed Ross Butler prints (Jersey cow & bull, Holstein cow, Ayrshire bull, Hereford cow & bull, Beef Shorthorn cow). Scale model Perkins engine, running order – nice. Grain/seed bag signed Joseph Cressman, Waterloo, Jan. 21, 1839. 2 early hooked mats (1 – sailing ship, 1 – beavers). Berlin harness repair box. David Adams Scrimshaw carving. Folk art Madonna “Our Lady of Sorrows”, 19in. tall. Grain cradle. Large whirligig. Copper boiler. Coffee grinders. Butter prints. Singer Featherweight 221 sewing machine. Frontalini accordion, playable. Table top radio. Roy Rogers memorabilia. Ornate bracket lamp. Oil lamps. Brass fire extinguisher. Model steam engine. Advertising signs. Old lunch pails. Oil bottles. Old books. Black Americana. Kitchen collectibles. Graniteware. Doll buggy. 3 Royal Doultons. Floor lamps. 8 day china clocks. CP & CNR lanterns. Selection of slat & pepper shakers. Crocks & jugs. Ink wells. Pop bottles. Stenciled boxes. Chalk ware. Napoleon & his generals (Royal Crown). Shinplasters & $1’s. China & glass (hat pin holder, Pyrex mixing bowls, cups & saucers, coloured glass, etc. Eight tracks. Few hand & garden tools. Household goods.
NOTE – An interesting auction with many highlights! See www.auctionsfind.com/ gerber for photos. Terms – Cash, debit or cheque with I.D. 10% buyer’s premium. AUCTIONEERS:
Gerber Auctions Ltd.
519-699-4451 or 698-0138
2827 Hutchison Rd., RR#1 Millbank (Crosshill) FROM PG. 17
FARM SERVICES FERTILIZER AND SEED GRAIN - at competitive pricing. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141. ICE SALT & ICE MELT - Ice salt comes in 20 & 40kg’s, Ice melt comes in 20kg bags. Call George Haffner Trucking, 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045. KILN DRIED CORN & CORN SCREENING Delivered by Einwechter. Minimum 15 ton lots. Call George Haffner Trucking 519-574-4141 or 519-669-2045.
FIREWOOD FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Seasoned; dry, stored inside. $70/cord. Delivery available. 519-465-8185. GERBER’S FIREWOOD YOUR source of quality slabwood and seasoned bodywood. All prices include delivery. No Sunday calls please. 519-656-2057.
RENTALS MODERN ONE BEDROOM apartment - Close to downtown, with gas fireplace, air conditioning, secured entrance. Non-smoker, appliances included, including no charge laundry. Lots of closet space. Available March 1st. Call Hugh 519669-5533 after 6:00 p.m. or daytime 519-746-5111 ext. 1
NEW CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE WEDNESDAYS BY 10AM
CLASSIFIED | 19
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
FAMILY ALBUM ANNIVERSARY
BIRTHDAY
OBITUARY
Congratulations on your 50 th Wedding Anniversary
SURPRISE 65th Birthday for Paul Koebel
Ken and Marlene Irvine
Martin, Harvey B.
We want to thank you for the example you have set for us and your continued love and support! All our love, your Children and Grandchildren
Family and friends are invited to drop in from 4 - 8pm, Saturday January 9th. Address: 1010 Church Street, St. Clements
BIRTHDAY
DEATH NOTICES
Happy Birthday!
WOW James is 10! Yikes Leah’s a teenager!
Lots of Love Mom & Dad
ALBRECHT, ERMA B. | With heavy hearts, the family announces the peaceful passing of Erma, into her Eternal Rest. Surrounded by family at St. Mary’s Hospital, Kitchener, on Monday, January 4, 2016, Erma (nee Roes) of Wellesley in her 84th year.
Lisa (Richard King) of Wellesley.
BAUMAN, VERONICA | Passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at her residence, at the age of 73 years. Veronica (Hoover) Bauman was the wife of Martin F. Bauman of RR 1, Linwood.
JANTZI, KATIE (NEE JANTZI) -| Passed on
BRUDER, ELMER ANTON
XTRA NEWS NOW ONLINE NEW WEEKLY ONLINE COLUMN:
• A View Beyond The Pew • Authored by local Ministers
• Maryhill News • Keep up on what’s happening in Maryhill with regular postings by Diane Strickler
| Passed away peacefully at Grand River Hospital, Kitchener on Sunday, January 3, 2016, at the age of 83. Elmer farmed in Maryhill along with his three brothers at Marwood Farms Ltd. DIMITROFF, ROBERT GEORGE LEO | Passed away peace-
fully at his residence in Elmira with his family by his side, on Friday, December 25, 2015, after a courageous battle with cancer, at the age of 81 years. ERB, MILTON D. | Peace-
fully in his sleep on Wednesday, December 23, 2015 at Freeport Hospital, Kitchener, Milton of Wellesley in his 91st year. HEISE, FREDERICK ADAM | Passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, December 26, 2015, in his 79th year of Wellesley. HONE, JACK (JOACHIM ECKHARD) | Of Waterloo,
passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 27, 2015 at age 73. Local relatives are his daughter
HORST, JOSEPH A. | Passed
away peacefully on Sunday, January 3, 2016 at Knollcrest Lodge, Milverton at the age of 79 years. Local relatives are his son Paul and Cheryl Horst of Elmira.
to her eternal reward, surrounded by family at the Stratford General Hospital on Wednesday, December 30, 2015. Katie of Nithview Community, New Hamburg and formerly of Wellesley in her 93rd year. KAMRATH, DAVID NICHOLAS | Of Mildmay-Carrick,
passed away at Durham Hospital on Sunday, December 27, 2015 in his 79th year. Local relative is his daughter Delphine Lorenz of Elmira. MARTIN, AMSEY |- Peace-
fully at the Louise Marshall Hospital, Mount Forest on Wednesday, December 30, 2015, of RR2, Mount Forest age 60. Local relatives are his sister Salome and Nelson Wideman of St. Jacobs and Valina and Oscar Martin of Elmira. MARTIN, HARVEY B. | Passed away after a brief illness on Friday, January 1, 2016, at St. Mary’s General Hospital, Kitchener, at the age of 85 years, of RR1 Elmira. MARTIN,
MINERVA
| Passed away peacefully at Parkwood Mennonite Home, Waterloo, on Wednesday, December
23, 2015, at the age of 98 years, formerly of St. Jacobs. MCDONALD, NEIL | At
Louise Marshall Hospital, Mount Forest on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 of Holstein in his 63rd year. Local relatives are his son Whyte and Kate of Elmira. ROPP, IVAN WILLIAM IVAN | A gentle and loving soul passed away peacefully at Nithview Community surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at the age of 92 years. Local relatives are his daughter Sandra and Orie Albrecht and son Darrell and Shirley Ropp all of Wellesley. SCHEERER, MERVIN | Passed away at Freeport Health Centre, Grand River Hospital on Monday, December 21, 2015. Merv was a resident of Morningside Village New Hamburg and was formerly of Milverton. Merv was born 81 years ago in St. Jacobs. SCOTT, JANET ANN | May 7,
1959 - December 27, 2015 Passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 56. Janet was a long term administrative assistant with the Waterloo Region District School Board, most recently at Elmira District Secondary School. WILKINSON, BEATRICE EILEEN | Passed away
peacefully on Thursday, December 24, 2015 at St. Mary’s Hospital, Kitchener. Beatrice resided in Wellesley.
Passed away after a brief illness on Friday, January 1, 2016 at St. Mary’s General Hospital, Kitchener, at the age of 85 years. Harvey Martin, of RR 1, Elmira, was the beloved husband of the late Minerva (Metzger) Martin (1998). Loved father of Ruth (Allie) Misener of Nova Scotia, Murray (Joyce) of Elmira, James (Susan) of Floradale, and Paul (Janice) of Beachburg. Loving grandfather of Travis (Janet), Matthew (Corrie), Corey (fiancée Leslie), Tom (Steph), Luke (fiancée Orisha), Jeremy, Abby, Jackson, and Jacob; and great-granddaughter Kya. Dear brother of Rita Brubacher, Elsie (Clarence) Weber, Earl (Alice) Martin, Margaret Freeman, and Laverne (Adele) Martin. Fondly remembered by the Metzger family. Predeceased by his parents Cleason and Elizabeth (Brubacher) Martin, and brothers-in-law Enos Brubacher and Elmer Freeman. Harvey drove truck for Martin Feed Mills for 44 years, 3 million miles, accident free. He was a faithful member of Elmira Mennonite Church. He spent many years volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and went to Haiti twice with FIDA. Visitation took place on Monday, January 4, 2016 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira. A memorial service was held on Tuesday, January 5, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Elmira Mennonite Church, 58 Church St. W., Elmira. Interment in Elmira Mennonite Cemetery prior to the service. As expressions of sympathy, donations may be made to Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) or Habitat for Humanity. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses and other staff in St. Mary’s ICU and 3 East Cardiology for their compassionate care.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com OBITUARY Bauman, Veronica Passed away on Tuesday, December 29, 2015 at her residence, at the age of 73 years. Veronica (Hoover) Bauman was the wife of Martin F. Bauman of RR 1, Linwood. Mother of Edna and Norman Martin of RR 3, Wellesley, Onias and Susannah Bauman of RR 1, Linwood, Maryann and Irvin Martin of RR 3, Wellesley, Rebecca and Ivan Martin of RR 1, Wallenstein, Louisa and David Martin of RR 1, Wallenstein, Lydiann and Noah Martin of RR 3, Wellesley, Elam Bauman at home, Martin and Marie Bauman of RR 1, Linwood, Veronica and Solomon Brubacher of Wallenstein, Sarah and Abraham Martin of RR 1, Wellesley, Alvin and Sarah Bauman of RR 1, Linwood. Survived by her three sisters, five brothers, and numerous grandchildren. Predeceased by her parents Martin and Rebecca Hoover, sisters Mary Ann Bauman and Elizabeth Sherk, and brother Jonas Hoover. Interment and funeral service was held at Martin’s Mennonite Meeting House. Arrangements entrusted to the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com
20 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
OPEN HOUSE Saturday, Jan 9th | 2-4pm
Donating back to the community we call home.
307 Cable Ct., Waterloo
MOVE RIGHT IN
NEW LISTING
Waterloo - Newly finished top to bottom, this town home is immaculately done. Updates include new carpet, kitchen counter, two new toilets, fresh paint and trim. Fair sized bedrooms, with two walk in closets, and a finished basement to add living space with a rec room. This won't last long! MLS.
294,000
Elmira - Character and charm are evident throughout this Century home! This spacious 2 storey is elegantly decorated throughout with large principal rooms Including a study on the main floor. Beautifully landscaped with a detached double garage. Located in the friendly town of Elmira 10 mins from Waterloo. Zoned for a home based business. MLS 30500671.
$464,000
BUNGALOFT
FAMILY HOME GREAT PRICE Drayton - This beautiful bungalow with loft is currently being built, located in the town of Drayton just a scenic drive from KW, quality at every turn, 1800 sq ft with hardwood and ceramic, 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. large master bedroom ensuite and walkin closet. MLS 1537660.
D L SO
Alli Bauman Paul Martin Sue Wideman SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
allibauman@rogers.com
paul@remaxsolidgold.biz
519-577-6248 519-503-9533
$422,500
Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage
STUNNING CENTURY CHARM
3 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519-669-5426
Call today and book a
Independently Owned and Operated
Bonnie
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
226-750-9332
suewidemanhomes@gmail.com
FREE HOME EVALUATION Shanna
Brubacher
BROKER
Rozema
90 Earl Martin Dr., Unit 4, Elmira N3B 3L4
$219,900
Elmira - This 4 bedroom home is perfect for a growing family as well as a retired couple due to the convenience of the main floor master bedroom with ensuite and walk in closet. Enjoy a morning coffee in the East facing sun room, and family time in the large living room. Walking distance to downtown and Rec Centre. Much larger than it looks! MLS 30500120.
BROKER
519-669-3192 www.YourFamilyTeam.ca
R.W. THUR REAL ESTATE LTD.
519-669-2772
45 Arthur St. S., Elmira www.thurrealestate.com
BROKERAGE
LET OUR 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU!
“HELPING YOU IS WHAT WE DO.”
OPEN HOUSE | THIS WEEKEND SAT. & SUN. 1-3PM
BRAD MARTIN
162 RIDGEVIEW DR., DRAYTON RIDGE EXECUTIVE TOWNS DRAYTON (model home) BUILT BY PARADIGM (ELMIRA) HOMES
JULIE
TRACEY
LUKE
WILLIAMS Broker of Record, HECKENDORN SHANTZ Broker Sales Rep. MVA Residential Sales Rep. Res: 519.669.1068 Res: 519.669.8629 Cell: 519.505.0627 Cell: 519.584.4400
GEDDES ST., HAWKESVILLE
Priced from $322,900* Gorgeous 1424 sq.ft Bungalows with 9’ ceilings, open concept, hardwood & ceramic floors. $356,900 End unit Bungalow loft offers 1977 sq.ft, vaulted *
ceilings, open concept, hardwood & ceramic. Builder bonus for upgrades, call for details. EXCLUSIVE.
*
M-5 ZONING - ELMIRA VACANT LAND - $568,000 2.43 acre prime
location in South end business park! MLS.
MUCH TO OFFER $539,000 ELMIRA This home offers an inviting front ceramic
foyer, maple hardwood floors throughout the main & upper level, solid maple staircase with wrought iron railing, bright maple kitchen with appliances, open to the dining and living areas, gas fireplace, walkout to concrete covered patio, fenced yard, shed & professionally landscaped grounds. Spacious master with ensuite, finished basement with 4th bathroom.MLS.
RURAL BUILDING LOT - DRAYTON - $98,500 1.06 acre parcel, single family dwelling permitted. MLS.
CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE FALL MARKET ANALYSIS!
SPACE FOR RENT Your Business Here!
FREE
HOME EVALUATION Call for details: 519-503-2753
Start the conversation with readers across Woolwich, Wellesley and Waterloo. Tried. Tested. Proven. Call Donna at 519.669.5790 Ext 104.
$279,900 “CHARACTER” GALORE in this quaint home backing to Mill Race in Hawkesville. 3+ bdrms. Formal LR/DR and eat-in kitchen. Main flr. family room w/walkout to a deck. Office in lower level w/separate entry. Zoning will allow for some commercial uses. MLS.
SPACE FOR LEASE
ED S A LE $725/month 854 SQ. FT. AVAILABLE IN DOWNTOWN ELMIRA – Park Street East. Former dental office. Ideal for medical related business or office space. Some parking & basement storage available. MLS.
CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET EVALUATION
CLASSIFIED | 21
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
BUDGET: Township looking to build up its reserve funds
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
FROM | 2
REALTY LTD., BROKERAGE
INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED
Contact us by phone
Or by Fax
519-669-1544 519-669-5119
Len Frey
Mildred Frey
519-741-6368
519-741-6970
Broker Sales Representative mildred@thefreyteam.com mildred@thefreyteam.com
www.thefreyteam.com
FOR LEASE | Unit 1-63 Arthur St. S., Elmira $14.00 / SQ. FT. The unit has 1,025 sq. ft. of finished space available immediately. Has main street exposure. Has a large front display window. Great commercial location. To view call Mildred Frey -Broker Peak Realty Ltd@ 519-741-6970 MLS 1524851
“We’re going to be looking for some funding to do a community improvement plan. We’re going to be looking at doing some work on Wellesley Pond. There’s a pretty significant list of issues that we’re going to be tackling. I think that this year if you look at the budget closely, most of what I’ve seen – we were given the draft copy of the budget before Christmas – most
of what I see in the budget is putting away some reserves, so that by 2017 we have money there to tackle some of these issues that we’re going to have to deal with. It’s ambitious, but I think we’re moving in the right direction,” Nowak said. They’re planning to have a town hall in regards to the pond this year. Nowak has been in discussions with the Grand River Conserva-
tion Authority, as recently as Tuesday, about getting that organized. He’d like to have a plan in place by this summer about what to do with the pond, so they can begin their funding applications and get money together to do the work in 2017. “The GRCA has budgeted some money for some restoration work at the dam for 2017. It would be nice if we did sort of everything together.”
While many of the projects in the draft budget are for 2017, he’s hoping they can get some trail work done in the township this year, along with the rural economic development application for funding. “We’re also in pretty good financial shape, so we’re fortunate. Our debt is not significant compared to others,” Nowak said. Budget discussions begin on Jan. 11.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Thinking of Buying or Selling?
Call or email today for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION, OPINONS of VALUE!
Bert Be Martin Re/max Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., R
2016 ASPHALT PAVING CONTRACT TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY CONTRACT NO. 2016-03
BROKER
Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
DIRECT: 519-572-2669 3 Arthur St. S. Elmira DIREC OFFICE: 519-669-5426
www.remaxsolidgold.biz
EMAIL: bert@remaxsolidgold.biz
FREE Market Evaluation ! EW G N TIN S LI
$324,900 Great starter or retirement bungalow in quiet area of St.Jacobs offers 3 bedrooms (1 in basement) 2 bathrooms, finished basement, large garage, recent updates. MLS. Call Bert to view.
$269,900 Elmira starter home with recent updates offers 3 bedrooms, renovated bathroom, rec room with fireplace and walk-up to side yard, kitchen/dinette with bay window, nice front porch, new garden shed and driveway. MLS. Call Bert to view.
Sealed Tenders, clearly marked as to contents, will be received at the Township office until 2:00 p.m., Local Time, on:
Friday, January 22, 2016 for the placement of HL3 surface and HL4 base asphalt, as well as sidewalk at various locations throughout the Township of Wellesley. Tender opening will follow at 2:05 p.m. Please direct any inquiries to the Township office listed below. ESTIMATED MAJOR ITEM QUANTITIES: • HL3 Asphalt 5,083 tonnes • HL4 Asphalt 4,351 tonnes • Concrete sidewalk (1.5m width) 686 square metres • Concrete curb & gutter 30 metres Tender forms and specifications may be obtained at the Owner’s address below, after 10:00am on Monday, January 11, 2016, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00 (including HST) per set, made payable to the Township of Wellesley. The successful bidder will be required to furnish a 100% Performance Bond and a 100% Materials Payment Bond. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Acceptance is also
1,900 s/f beautifully detailed bungalow offering dream kitchen w/granite, cherry cabinets and quality appliances, main floor great room w/fireplace, superb master w/ensuite plus 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, large rec/games room, walkup to large double garage. Mature trees in fenced yard surrounding salt water pool and large deck. Great in-law suite in basement. MLS. Call Bert to view.
Your referrals are appreciated!
FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN THE #1 COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER IN ONTARIO
Tenders, Quotations and Proposals are to be delivered to the Clerk’s Department, at the address indicated below. Submissions received after the closing time will NOT be accepted. The onus is on the bidder to ensure that the bid is received in the proper location and before the closing time. OWNER
Kevin Beggs, CRS The Corporation of the Township of Wellesley 4639 Lobsinger Line, RR 1 St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 Tel. 519-699-4611 Fax. 519-699-4540 Email. kbeggs@wellesley.ca
2016 GRAVEL RESURFACING CONTRACT TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY CONTRACT NO. 2016-02 Sealed Tenders, clearly marked as to contents, will be received at the Township office until 2:30 p.m., Local Time, on:
$484,900 Enjoy the 3,400 s/f of finished living space in this
contingent on budget approval, and the Township will not be liable for costs should it not be. A tender deposit in the amount of $50,000 shall accompany all tenders, in the form of a Bid Bond or Certified Cheque. The tender deposits of all Tenderers, except the low and second low Tenderer, will be returned within ten (10) days after opening. Upon Council approval, commencement of work shall be coordinated with the Township of Wellesley and may not commence until authorization is received from the Township. It is anticipated that construction may commence by no later than July 4, 2016 and shall be totally completed by September 30, 2016.
Friday, January 22, 2016 for the supply, hauling and placement of approximately 27,000 tonnes of Granular ‘M’ on several gravel roads within the Township of Wellesley. Tender opening will follow at 2:35 p.m. Please direct any inquiries to the Township office listed below. Tender forms and specifications may be obtained at the address below, after 10:00am on Monday, January 11, 2016, for a non-refundable fee of $10.00 (including HST) per set, made payable to the Township of Wellesley. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Acceptance is also contingent on budget approval, and the Township will not be liable for costs should it not be. A tender deposit in the amount of $10,000 shall accompany all tenders, in the form of a Bid Bond or Certified Cheque.
The tender deposits of all Tenderers, except the low and second low Tenderer, will be returned within ten (10) days after opening. Upon Council approval, commencement of work shall be coordinated with the Township of Wellesley and may not commence until authorization is received from the Township. It is anticipated that construction commences by no later than May 2, 2016 and shall be totally completed by May 27, 2016. Tenders, Quotations and Proposals are to be delivered to the Clerk’s Department, at the address indicated below. Submissions received after the closing time will NOT be accepted. The onus is on the bidder to ensure that the bid is received in the proper location and before the closing time. OWNER
Kevin Beggs, CRS The Corporation of the Township of Wellesley 4639 Lobsinger Line, RR 1 St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 Tel. 519-699-4611 Fax. 519-699-4540 Email. kbeggs@wellesley.ca
22 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
THOMPSON’S
TIRE
WHERE TIRES
Complete Collision Service
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
519-669-3232
GENERAL SERVICES
RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING EFFORT!
AUTO CLINIC 21 Industrial Dr. Elmira
Accredited Test & Repair Facility
519-669-4400
519-669-7652
30 ORIOLE PKWY. E., ELMIRA www.thompsonsauto.ca
519.669.8917
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
GENERAL SERVICES
www.biobobs.com
While you wait! State of the acAhinrte Sharpening M
Various sizes & rates
$4.99 per pair
CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call
www.biobob.com or call today!
5th pair FREE.
519-669-4964
22 Church St. W., Elmira
Tel: 519-669-5537
100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA
Visit our website
STORE HOURS:
519-648-3004
or
800-232-6396
M-W: 8-6, T-F 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5
GENERAL SERVICES
COUNTR Y
’s 60’s / 70
HIGH SCHOOSL BAND
GOSPEL
Boat Covers | Air Conditioner Covers | Small Tarps Storage Covers | BBQ Covers | Awnings & Canopies Replacement Gazebo Tops | Golf Cart Enclosures & Covers
ROCK
MORE INFO | 519.669.0541
6376 Perth Rd. 121 Poole, ON
877-664-3802
888-871-4592
519-664-3800
519-843-4845
www.fergusfireplace.com
SERVICES
Plumbing and Maintenance Inc.
TUNING & REPAIRS
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
Your favourite albums get a whole new life on CD after we clean up the clicks, pops and surface noise.
519.595.4830
967 St. David Street, North
Steve Co.
BAUMAN PIANO
MUSIC TRANSFERS FROM LPs, 45s, 78s, CASSETTES TO CD
General Repairs
FERGUS
1871 Sawmill Road
HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
MUSIC-LOVER GIFT ALERT!
•Ratches, Hooks, Straps, Webbing etc. •Canvas, Vinyl, Polyester, Acrylic Fabrics
WOOD GAS PELLET
CONESTOGO
EMAIL: vinylp2cd@gmail.com
For all your Plumbing Needs. 24 HOUR SERVICE
JAMES BAUMAN
Steve Jacobi
Craftsman Member O.G.P.T. Inc NEW PHONE NUMBER
ELMIRA
519-669-3652
519-880-9165
HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
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
WINDOW FASHIONS • Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Randy Weber ECRA/ESA Licence # 7000605
519.669.1462 Fax: 519.669.9970 Tel:
Evenings By Appointment
Free in-home Consultations. Call someone you can trust. Call Cindy.
18 Kingfisher Dr., Elmira
A Brand You Can Trust 22 Church St. W., Elmira
Tel: 519-669-5537
STORE HOURS: M-F: 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5
AT YOUR SERVICE. We specialize in getting the word out. Advertise your business services in our directory. Weekly exposure with fantastic results! Promote your service today! Call Donna at 519-669-5790 ext. 104
WEICKERT& MEIROWSKI Concrete Foundations Limited
YES... WE DO RESIDENTIAL WORK!
6982 Millbank Main St., Millbank 519-595-2053 • 519-664-2914
CLASSIFIED | 23
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
IRA HOME COMFORT M L E (519) 669-4600
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 1 Union Street, Elmira
1553 King St. N., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0
• Store Fronts • Thermopanes • Mirrors • Screen Repair • Replacement Windows • Shower Enclosures • Sash Repair TEL:
ehc@hotmail.ca (519)-669-4600
RESIDENTIAL & AGRICULTURAL - Design and build -
FRAMING • ROOFING RENOVATIONS • EAVESTROUGHS
(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
OUTDOOR SERVICES
AMOS INC
R O O F I N G
• 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.
519.501.2405 | 519.698.2114 In Business since 1973 • Fully Insured
John Schaefer Painting Interior/exterior Painting, Wallpapering & Plaster | drywall Repairs
NOW ACCEPTING VISA OR MASTERCARD
519-669-2251 36 Hampton St., Elmira
> Commercial & Residential > Fully Insured > WSIB Clearance > Senior Discount
Lawn Maint Maintenance Main tenance 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
KEVIN DETWEILER
P: 519-669-1188 | F: 519-669-9369
kdetweiler@rogers.com
OWNER-OPERATOR
OBSERVER PUZZLE SOLUTIONS Since 1998
•Final grading •Lawn repair & complete seeding well equipped for large stoney areas •Spike Aerator/Overseeding •Natural & Interlocking Stone •Retaining Walls, Walks & Patios •Help for Top Water & Drainage issue
Murray & Daniel Shantz
ALMA, ONTARIO | PHONE: 519.846.5427
/ 2 1 * % 2 :
2 5 , 6 2 1
$ . , $ / < 1 0 2 2 5 , 2 / 1 2
* , 6 % $ ' ( 1 , ' / 2 / 1 , 0 < , / 7 ( $ 0 % / $ ( 6
& 9 $ + ( ' ( 1 ' = $ 1 < 0 $ $ ( ( ; < / , ( 8 6 , ) $ 7 2 0
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PRINTING | MAILING | SIGNAGE SERVICES
+ , / 2 ' , 3 0 6 2 + < , 1 ( & 0 ( ( $ 1 $ 1 '
7 6 8 0 % $ 5 $ 7 2 * ( (
1 2 : 6
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Advertise your business services in our service directory. Weekly exposure with fantastic results! Call Donna at 519.669.5790 Ext 104.
Services
CROSSWORD PUZZLER
Your Business Here!
Outdoor
FREE ESTIMATES
OUTDOOR SERVICES
SPACE FOR RENT
519-577-0370
darwayconstruction@icloud.com | Alma, ON
HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES
CONSTRUCTION INC.
www.marwilconcrete.ca
Wayne Martin | 519-504-2016
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AGRICULTURAL | RESIDENTIAL
24 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
LIVING HERE ACHIEVEMENTS / CONSTANT DEVELOPMENT
Elmira’s Nathan Shuh is flying high in pursuit of his goals Trampolinist gains valuable experience with international exposure, most recently in Denmark LIZ BEVAN NO, IT’S NOT A bird, or even a plane – it’s Elmira resident Nathan Shuh, twisting, turning and flipping through the air on his trampoline. He is fresh from competition in Odense, Denmark for the 24th Trampoline Gymnastics World Age Group Competition in December, and he says he learned a great deal on his trip. “In Denmark, there were a few things I saw that I would carry into my training,” he said. “In training, there is a lot more focus (from other countries). I like to go into training pretty open-ended, but the other countries seem to be very focused. They say, ‘I am going to do this on this turn, or that on that turn.’ They are a little more specific in their training.” In Odense, Shuh finished his routine, which in a trampoline competition, is an important thing. He finished two routines in Portugal at the Loule Cup. “To say you have finished your routines is a pretty big deal, because in trampolining you never know what is going to happen,” he said. “You can fall at any given moment. It is a very fickle sport that way.” Loule and the World Age Group Championships were Shuh’s first international competitions, an
CHEF’S TABLE/ DONNA GINGRICH
Cold weather calls for hearty food RECIPE NOTES
Decemember found Nathan Shuh in Odense, Denmark for the 24th Trampoline Gymnastics World Age Group Competition. The Elmira teen said the experience was invaluable as he steps up to senior-level competition. [FILE PHOTO] experience he says helped him see how other gymnasts work. “It was a really eyeopening experience, just to see the talent there is around the world, and how much of it there is as well,” he said. “Just the different methods in training that you see and the competition – it was really interesting. It was a good competition.” He says there were a few things at both meets that
he would like to improve, and that is what he is going to spend the next year doing. Shuh has officially entered the senior competition category after celebrating his 18th birthday. The new age group also presents new challenges. “The senior category is the highest level that anyone can go in the sport of trampoline. It is against the very best athletes in the world who are vying for those Olympic spots.
You are competing at the world championships as opposed to the World Age Group Championships,” he said. “The difficulty requirements are a lot higher. I am just kind of testing the waters at this stage. I am just going to be putting a few upgrades into my routines and just see how it all goes.” With a new year and new competition category ahead of him, Shuh makes it a point to thank all of
those that made it possible for him to follow his passion, including the community of Elmira. “There is so much support in my hometown. I am really proud to be representing everyone who is supporting me,” he said. “I am just so grateful for all that people give me. It is a very weird sport, but for people to give me that, regardless, is amazing.”
WINTER HAS ARRIVED, MUCH to our relief – we fret about winter but if it does not show up it is cause for worry. So I am thinking about hearty, cold-weather food. I made real pork and beans this week – cooked the beans, roasted the pork and made my barbeque sauce recipe on page 68 in my cookbook. Now, to make this recipe you don’t have to cook the beans yourself; canned beans will work just fine, just be sure to rinse well with cold water then drain them. If you do cook the beans from raw, add a little salt while cooking. Most canned beans are salted and the barbeque sauce has salt as well so when all is mixed you can taste it before you bake it. When I cook the beans, I find you have to cook them almost to the splitting stage otherwise they still have a bit of crunch. And they don’t seem to soften after they are baking in the tomato sauce. I could be wrong about that, but it happened to me twice!
SHUH | 27
CHEF’S TABLE | 27
Did you know? During the winter, when temperatures drop, it is important to try and keep at least a quarter tank of gas in your vehicle. Doing this decreases the amount of condensation that forms in your fuel tank. This condensation adds water to your fuel and can cause it to actually freeze in cold temperatures. – Maynard
Tel: (519) 669-1082 Fax: (519) 669-3084 info@leroysautocare.net 20 Oriole Parkway E., Elmira, ON
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Accredited Test & Repair Facility
LIVING HERE | 25
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016 “A GOOD JOB DONE EVERY TIME”
Kleensweep Carpet Care
Everything Vacuum
COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
T. 519.669.2033
Truck & Trailer Maintenance Cardlock Fuel Management
COMMERCIAL 24 CARDLOCK FUEL DEPOT HOUR M&G MILLWRIGHTS LTD.
JANUARY 8 COMMUNITY CAN DINE, “WHERE the entire community comes together to meet and eat.” Hosted at Trinity United Church, 21 Arthur St. N., Elmira, dinner is served from 6 - 7:30 p.m., Pay what you can. Menu: Mac & Cheese, hosted by the Girl Guides. This event is offered the second Friday of every month. For more information call Kelly at WCS 519-669-5139 or the church office 519-669-5560.
E-MAIL: ads@woolwichobserver.com
Songs from Australia, Peter Shaw - singer/guitarist, Steve Martin - bass player. Devotional - Pastor Daniel Moes. Suggested donation $7/ person includes hot lunch. For more info contact Reta Malloy 519-669-8752.
HUNGRYMAN’S BREAKFAST HOSTED BY the Elmira Sugar Kings. Elmira Legion, 11 First St. E., Elmira. 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Adults $6; 6-10 yrs $3; 5 & under free. All you can eat.
NEW HORIZONS WELCOMES ALL zoomers, boomers and seniors. Enjoy coffee or tea and a delicious snack. Speaker: Rick Cober Bauman - Topic: Where can we find some Mennonites to take down our house and other wonderuful questions we get at MCC? Rick is the executive director for the Mennonite Central Committee of Ontario; $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.
JANUARY 13
JANUARY 20
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.
SENIORS LUNCH CLUB AT noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Wellesley Community Centre, 1000 Maple Leaf St., Wellesley. Cost $6. Join us for a noonday light lunch and fellowship. Call Community Care Concepts at 519-664-1900 or toll free: 1-855-664-1900 for more information.
JANUARY 10
JANUARY 14
JANUARY 25
MATERIAL HANDLING & PROCESSING SYSTEMS
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: 1-855-664-1900 for more information.
SENIORS LUNCH CLUB AT noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Woolwich Memorial Centre, 24 Snyder Ave. S., Elmira (community room). Cost $6. Join us for a noonday light lunch and fellowship. Call Community Care Concepts at 519-664-1900 for more information.
519.669.5105
WOODSIDE EVERGREEN FELLOWSHIP FOR Seniors, 200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira. “Aussie Fun Show” -
SENIORS LUNCH CLUB (DOORS open at 11:30 a.m.).
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JANUARY 27
Wellesley Community Centre, 1000 Maple Leaf St., Wellesley. Cost $6. Join us for a noonday light lunch and fellowship. Call Community Care Concepts at 519-664-1900 or toll free: 1-855-664-1900 for more info.
w w w.elmiravacuumelectrical.ca Tuesday - Friday, 9am-5:30pm
•
Saturday, 9am-3pm
JANUARY 30 SPAGHETTI DINNER & SALAD Bar. Royal Canadian Legion, 11 First St. E., Elmira. Two sittings: 5 & 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased by calling the Legion at 519-669-2932. Adults $10; children (5-10 yrs) $4; under 5 years $2.
FEBRUARY 6 WOOLWICH COMMUNITY LIONS ANNUAL Trivia Challenge at Lions Hall. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., fun starts at 7 p.m. A fun evening of trivia and competition where teams of eight compete against other teams of eight for the title of Trivia Master and prizes. Snacks, beverages, fun challenging trivia and some surprises. For more info wclctrivia@gmail.com or call Marnie @ 519-210-0252.
21 INDUSTRIAL DR. ELMIRA
519-669-2884
FEBRUARY 12 COMMUNITY CAN DINE, “WHERE the entire community comes together to meet and eat.” Hosted at Trinity United Church, 21 Arthur St. N., Elmira, dinner is served from 6-7:30 p.m. Pay what you can. Menu: Roasted Pork & apple stuffing. This event is offered the second Friday of every month. For more information call Kelly at WCS 519-669-5139 or the church office 519-669-5560.
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www.UniTwin.com
SUBMIT AN EVENT The Events Calendar is reserved for non-profit local community events that are offered free to the pub-
lic. Placement is not guaranteed. Registrations, corporate events, open houses and the like do not qualify in this section.
HOW CAN I HELP?
24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE
NANCY KOEBEL
Bus: 519.744.5433 Home: 519.747.4388
Individual life insurance, mortgage insurance, business insurance, employee benefits programs, critical illness insurance, disability coverage,
TOTAL HOME ENERGY SYSTEMS
New to the Community? Do you have a new Baby?
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
RRSPs, RESPs, RRIFs, LIFs and Annuities. 652 Waterbury Lane, Waterloo
Elmira & Surrounding Area
11 HENRY ST. - UNIT 9, ST. JACOBS
SHARON GINGRICH 519.291.6763
519.664.2008
psgingrich@hotmail.ca
226-266-2432 pmerlihan@woolwich.ca @PatMerlihan www.merlihan.com WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE
PLACES OF FAITH | A DIRECTORY OF LOCAL HOUSES OF WORSHIP
building relationships with God, one another and the world
SUNDAYS - 9:00 & 11:00AM WEDNESDAYS - 7:00PM
MACHINE WORKS INCORPORATED
COUNCILLOR | WARD 1 WOOLWICH TOWNSHIP
VERMONT Castings
St. James Lutheran Church
SANYO CANADIAN
PATRICK MERLIHAN
It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon Hostess.
YOUR OIL, PROPANE, NATURAL GAS AND AIR CONDITIONING EXPERTS
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
11:00 am
Saving Grace
10:45am Worship Service Finding The Way Together 47 Arthur St., S. Elmira • 519-669-3153 www.thejunctionelmira.com
Service at 10:30am Rev. Paul Snow
HEARING ASSISTED
Sunday, January 10th
Zion Mennonite Fellowship 9:30am Sunday School
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
Salvation to receive Speaker: Ray Jones
Discovering God Together
4522 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein www.wbconline.ca • 519-669-2319
Elmira Mennonite Church
Worship: 9:30am
Encountering the Man who is God
REACH WITH LOVE. TEACH THE TRUTH. SEND IN POWER.
www.kcf.org/academy
290 Arthur St. South, Elmira • 519-669-3973 www.ElmiraAssembly.com (Across from Tim Horton’s)
Emmanuel
The Book of Revelation verse-by-verse, chapter-by-chapter
CALVARY CHAPEL
Spiritual Contributor
Worship Service
9:15 AM & 11:00 AM 18 Mockingbird Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1459 www.elmiracommunity.org
Sundays 10:30am
elmiraemmanuel.com
“Worship” Sunday, January 10th
meets at All Saints Anglican Church 500 Northfield Dr. West, Waterloo • 226-234-8384
EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH
Sunday, January 10th
Sunday Service 6:00 pm
58 Church St. W., Elmira • 519-669-5123
200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1296 www.woodsidechurch.ca
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
26 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
STRANGE BUT TRUE / BILL & RICH SONES PH.D.
Technology makes it possible to “see� through the use of sound characteristics WEIRD NOTES
Q. How might a blind
person take a “look� at the dwarf planet Pluto?
A. Pranav Lal of New Delhi, India, a cybersecurity expert who was born blind, uses sonification technology called vOICe that “transmits an image from a camera to software that turns it into sound,� says Sandrine Ceurstemont in “New Scientist� magazine. Lal frequently uses “vOICe� for photography, where he picks out the most pleasant-sounding composition like an “image orchestra,� so to speak. Different visual
features are converted into different characteristics of sound: “The position of an object is denoted by pitch– features higher up have a higher pitch – and brightness maps to loudness.� Adept at creating mental images based on the “soundscape� he hears, Lal was able “to see the first images of Pluto sent back from space recently. ‘I could make out mountains, but they were hazy,’ he says. ‘A patch on the right of the image was clearer as it was better lit.’� What happens here is that visual parts of the brain can learn to substitute input from other senses. For example, after hearing the sonification of basic lines and shapes, a volunteer with his eyes cov-
ered could still read words just by listening to the corresponding sounds. One day, the technology for color vision and night vision may follow and add to the picture. Q. What are some of the quirkier items to be found in libraries these days?
A. According to Gabe
Luzier in “Mental Floss� magazine, librarians have gone beyond their passion for books to offer patrons umbrellas for rainy days (Cornell University Library in Ithaca, New York), American Girl Dolls (Arlington Public Library in Arlington, Virginia), sculptures for the office (the Aurora Public Library in Illinois). Then there are items for your hobby, such as musical
sing, says Jim Sullivan in “Discover� magazine. The theory is that singing is more dominated by the right hemisphere, speaking by the left (the National Center for Voice and Speech). “It’s also why the singers Carly Simon, Mel Tillis and Bill Withers can ply their trade with no problems, but sometimes stutter in conversation.� Then there’s the “screaming voice� of teaching assistant Jill Drake of Kent, England, who reached 129 dBA, according to “Guinness World Records.� This is equivalent to noise levels at an AC/DC concert, and about 30 dB louder than a jackhammer. A conversational voice, by contrast, is about 60 decibels. Holding the Guinness record for
instruments, board games, video game consoles and even sewing machines (The Library of Things at the Sacramento Public Library). And if you’re worried about being snowed in in Canaan, Vermont, take out a pair of snowshoes from the Alice M. Ward Memorial Library. Finally, “to help break stereotypes, Bainbridge Public Library in Washington hosts what it calls a living library that allows patrons to talk informally with ‘people on loan’ of various ages, genders and cultural backgrounds.� Q. What are some of the true oddities of the human voice?
A. There are stroke victims who lose their ability to speak but who can still
widest musical range is singer Tim Storms, registering “a full 10 octaves – about twice that of Mariah Carey and more than three times the average singer’s three octaves.� Finally, consider the historical castrati, male singers castrated before puberty, when boys’ vocal cords typically lengthen and thicken. “Without the normal adult male testosterone levels, they remained natural trebles. Castrati were often highly paid, and in less enlightened times, some parents castrated their sons in hopes of cashing in.�
ABOUT THE AUTHORS Bill is a journalist, Rich holds a doctorate in physics. Together the brothers bring you “Strange But True.� Send your questions to strangetrue@compuserve.com.
OBSERVER CROSSWORD PUZZLER
ACROSS 1. Common sense 5. Bona fide 10. Sword handles 15. Beaver State 16. Seaman’s reference 18. Carpenter’s groove 19. Disgrace 20. Bird’s beak 22. Kind of user 24. You and I 25. Astir 26. Wall St. credential 27. Fed. construction overseer 28. Kooky 30. Matterhorn, e.g. 32. “Who cares?� 33. Be an omen of 35. “Yes, ___� 37. Far from ruddy 39. Word before large 40. ___ or about 41. Maiden name preceder
43. Crystalline compound that caffeine is derived from 45. Romantic interlude 46. Stylish 47. Gift-tag word 48. “Follow me!� 51. Balm ingredient 52. Celeb-oriented magazine 53. Angler’s hope 54. I, to Claudius 55. Hot spot 56. In event that 57. Cropped photos? 58. Again 59. “Prince ___� (“Aladdin� song) 60. Nuke 61. Much of Chile 62. Belonging to me 64. Common soccer score 65. Bit of dust 66. PM preceder 67. Barbecue offering
69. ___ podrida 71. Denials DOWN 1. Hood’s weapon 2. Prayer 3. Part of the verb “to be� 4. At the home of 6. Zoologist Fossey 7. Police, with “the� 8. “I had no ___!� 9. Coif 10. Dance 11. Ego counterpart 12. Airport pickup 13. Butter holder 14. Brainy 17. White coating 21. Good, in the ‘hood 23. Genetic stuff 25. Results 29. Part of a plane 31. Framework 32. Harmony 34. ___ a high note
36. “Gee whiz!� 38. Conversation starter 42. Artist’s asset 44. Correct, as text 45. Infinite 49. Arch type 50. “__ the time!� 51. Be bedridden 52. Amateur video subject, maybe 53. Show ___ 55. Mary ___ cosmetics 56. “Some Like __ Hot� 57. Private detective 58. Used before a vowel 63. Original matter 64. Nay 65. Fool 68. U.N. arm 70. “Life ___ We Know It�
OBSERVER TRAVELS
OPEN 24 HOURS | 7 DAYS A WEEK
DELIV SER ERY AVAILVICE Call fo ABLE rD
etails
315 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5403
SUDOKU CHALLENGE LOCATION
Fort Myers, Florida
CAPTION Jocelyn & Gary Schaefer enjoyed Christmas this year in Fort Myers, Florida. Here they had their photo taken on Christmas Day at the pool with Observer in hand. Fort Myers also has an Observer newspaper, just not as good, of course!
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.
LIVING HERE | 27
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
SHUH: Competition is what
keeps him going through it all
FROM | 24
He also credits his trainers and teammates with helping him maintain his dedication and improvement on the trampoline. “We work really hard and we push each other a lot,” he said, adding that
the competition is what keeps him coming back. “I just really like the satisfaction of finishing routines and the competition. It is a lot of fun. I really like the coaches as well. It is just a really amazing training environment.”
CHEF’S TABLE: Baking up
your own beans and pork
FROM | 24
Any combination of beans will work in this recipe – black, navy or kidney beans.
Real Pork and Beans 1 Tbsp. butter 2/3 cup onion, chopped ½ cup celery, chopped 4 cups cooked beans 2 Tbsp. cooking molasses 1 cup barbeque sauce 1 cup tomato sauce 1 – 10oz. beef broth 2-1/2 cups cooked pork, chopped
Melt butter in a large skillet or saucepan.
Add onion and celery, stir-fry a few minutes until softened. Add remaining ingredients, stir to combine. Check seasoning, add salt or pepper as needed. Mixture will be soupy but it will thicken as it bakes. Pour into greased casserole dish. Cover tightly. Bake for 3-4 hours at 300º F. Instead of baking this in an oven, you could do it in a slow cooker on low heat for about eight hours.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Donna is the author of A Taste of Nostalgia Cookbook, which is available by calling 519-638-5791 or email donna.atasteofnostalgia@ gmail.com.
A Sudbury Saturday night on a Maryhill Sunday afternoon The Stories and Songs of Stompin’ Tom at the Commercial Tavern Jan. 17 LIZ BEVAN STOMPIN’ TOM CONNORS IS known as the Canadian icon behind “The Hockey Song,” but Duncan Fremlin and his band, Whiskey Jack, want to show Maryhill audiences a whole other side to the bluegrass/country artist. On the afternoon of Jan. 17, The Commercial Tavern in Maryhill is hosting the Stories and Songs of Stompin’ Tom. Fremlin says the band can’t wait to share their love of Tom Connors’ music, and even a few stories about the man himself, with the audience in Woolwich Township. “As the years go by, the importance of his music has become even greater. His material has that kind of everyman quality. It appeals and relates to pretty much everybody,” he said, adding that he considers “The Hockey Song” to be one of Canada’s national anthems, however there is much more
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one-for-all kind of show. We are there to honour this great man and his music.” Touring smaller towns with smaller venues is something that Whiskey Jack and Fremlin look forward to every time. He feels it is just another way of honouring Stompin’ Tom’s legacy. “It is about his reputation. You appreciate the number of years he spent hitchhiking and traveling to smaller communities across the country, and certainly Wellesley and Woolwich were two townships he spent a lot of time in,” said Fremlin. “He lived nearby and he recorded nearby. He has a lot of friends and neighbours in the area. Most of the music he produced, especially later in life came from this general area.” The show starts at 1 p.m. on Jan. 17 at The Commercial Tavern. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance by calling the hotel at 519-648-3644.
Babies of the
$40
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here for a while. This is the kind of venue where we want to play. He got big, and had to play places like Massey Hall, but if Tom had his way, this is where he would have wanted to play forever. I am sure the crowd will be hugely receptive.” Part of the legacy Whiskey Jack makes sure to continue is the vibe of the Stompin’ Tom shows – a casual and conversational performance. “Tom’s shows were shows, yes, but they were really parties. The relationship he had with his fans was really quite unique and special. I don’t think there is a superstar in this country that has a relationship with their fans like Tom did,” said Fremlin. “His shows were never formal. He was always bantering with the audience. We do the same thing. We basically take the tone he set for the shows and for us to be able to continue the tradition (is great). It is a very inclusive,
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to the singer’s catalogue. “It seems the more we play (his songs) they have taken on a life of their own. We sing the songs and we tell the stories, and people love the stories because Tom was quite the character. It is all about entertainment. He was highly principled. He would live and die by his beliefs. He didn’t suffer fools gladly and he was true to himself from the get-go.” Fremlin and the rest of the members in Whiskey Jack knew Stompin’ Tom personally, having toured with him throughout the years and playing the singer’s birthday party every year at his Georgetown home. They got to know the man, and have been continuing his legacy for the last few years. This time, at The Commercial Tavern, something of a Canadian institution in itself. “It is perfect. The Commercial Tavern is perfect,” said Fremlin. “I have been wanting to bring the show
201
Deadline for submission Monday, January 11, 2016
Email photos & caption to: ads@woolwichobserver.com
NEW WEEKLY ONLINE COLUMN: • A View Beyond The Pew • Authored by local Ministers
• Maryhill News • Keep up on what’s happening in Maryhill with regular postings by Diane Strickler
28 | BACK PAGE
THE OBSERVER | THURSDAY, JANUARY 7, 2016
Wellesley arena and ball diamond rental fees are among increases after minimal discussion. Coun. Carl Smit asked if photocopy charges would be by the page, as it is for faxes. Clerk Grace Kosch confirmed it would be and noted she’d make that clear in the bylaw. Dog tag fees will increase by $5, to $30 from $25, to recover the cost of supplies and postage. To remain consistent with other municipalities the Wellesley Fire Department will charge higher rates when responding to collisions involving residents from outside the township – fees are typically billed to the driver’s insurance company – now that the province has increased the rate for highway response from $410 per hour per truck to $450. Under engineering, entrance permits and road cut permits will increase to $153 from $150. A new municipal address (sign, post, and installation) will run you $122.40 instead of $120. Just a new sign or post will cost an extra 70 cents more than last year and the cost of installation will go up by a dollar.
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*products may not be exactly as shown. limited supply
WELLESLEY RESIDENTS WILL BE paying more for renting time on the township’s ice surfaces and ball diamonds, among other things, as council this week approved changes to its fees and charges bylaw. Ice rental, ball diamond rental and advertising fees will increase by six per cent as of April 1. All new rental rates will begin on that date to give community groups the necessary time to budget. A staff report points to recent upgrades at township recreation facilities, as well as a comparison that shows rates to be substantially lower than other municipalities, to justify the increases. Prime time ice rental will see a noticeable jump to $179.07 an hour from $168.93. Non-prime time will be $111.31, as opposed to $105.01 last year. Those rates were just increased last year, too. Prime time ice rental went from $164.01 to $168.93 and non prime time rose from $101.96 to $105.01 in 2015.
Weekday morning rentals ($62.76 to $66.53), local minor sports ($107.43 to $113.88), non-local minor sports ($121.02 to $128.28), school rentals ($62.76 to $66.53), shinny hockey ($62.76 to $66.53), and summer floor rental fees ($560.89 to $594.84 for a full day) will all cost more too. Parents and tots skates and seniors skates will remain free. If you want to advertise on the walls or boards of the arenas it will cost you $166.44 instead of $151.31. For adult rentals of the ball diamonds with the lights on it will rise from $50.92 to $53.98. For minor ball rentals with the lights on it will increase from $22.75 to $24.12. Rental prices without lights will stay the same as last year. All the community centre rental rates will remain the same as they were in 2015. Fundraising groups will have to pay the full rental fee unless they come to council as a delegation and are successful in requesting a reduced or waived fee. Council unanimously passed the bylaw on Tuesday
*products may not be exactly as shown. limited supply
WHITNEY NEILSON