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03 | 14 | 2015 VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 11

small local brewers set for a taste-off venture PAGE 12

COMMENT PAGE 6

Breslau residents ultimate judges of school bid

With year-end reprieve, region to look at privatizing transfer stations

Woolwich defers decision on WRED scheme

Scott Barber For the second straight year, regional council has pulled the four rural transfer stations off the chopping block. With the facilities set to close for good at the end of the month, councillors voted March 4 to keep the facilities open until the end of 2015. The hope, for the Elmira location at least, is that the reprieve will give regional staff time to negotiate a sale of the property to a private operator. Woolwich Township Mayor Sandy Shantz put forward the motion to keep the stations open. “Council has given it until the end of the year,” she said. “There is a (staff) report coming in August which will be a comprehensive review of our waste management operations, as part of getting set up for the contract renewal that is coming in 2017. And so we are looking to see the whole picture of how everything fits together. But there really wasn’t a lot of appetite from (council) to keep them open past the end of the year and so they have kind of said, ‘OK, we’ll give you until the end of

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Councillors want better information before opting in, citing lack of justification for budget commitment STEVE KANNON

Waterloo Region councillors passed a motion put forward by Woolwich Mayor Sandy Shantz Mar. 4 to keep the four rural transfer stations open through 2015. [scott barber / the observer] have a surplus land policy. region might have around the year and you’ve got to Usually what happens in that because the region get your ducks in a row.’ So if there is a determination controls licenses and so the other piece that I asked that some operation or on.” for was that staff talk to activity is no longer going In order for a transprivate operators and look to continue, first and forefer station to be sold to for a solution in the private most it is usually reviewed a private operator, the sector. internally. So, say there is a land would first need to “It is really in the hands property that is no longer be deemed as surplus by of the private sector now, I going to be used for what regional council, waste would say. They have to get it was used for before, is management director Jon the information they need there another potential Arsenault explained. from the region and see if beneficial use within the “The typical process they can make a business here now with any (regioncase while also fulfilling waste | 4 owned property), is that we whatever requirements the

Looking for more information, Woolwich councillors put off for another two weeks a final vote on a new Waterloo Region economic development scheme. Coun. Patrick Merlihan led the charge on a deferral, backed by a majority of his colleagues. Prepared by a joint committee of chief administrators from Waterloo Region and the seven lower-tier municipalities, the new strategy calls for $2 million a year in public money. The supporting documentation for the venture is long on platitudes and short on details, however, Merlihan argues. He and Coun. Larry Shantz last week voted against handing over a blank cheque. On Tuesday night, he won the support of councillors Scott Hahn and Murray Martin in calling for more information. If Woolwich signs on, it will be forced to pay $160,000 over the next four

years on an as-yet-formed or defined Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation (WREDC). The report given to council contains no details of how the money will be spent, how progress will be measured or how the members will benefit. Likewise, there are no assurances even a dollar will be returned to the public coffers, nor any form of accountability to the public. While supportive of the idea of working with other municipalities – “It all sounds great on paper” – Merlihan said the documentation provided contains no justification for all the optimistic sentiments. “What I object to, what I am offended by, is the lousy supporting document that is to serve as the justification to spend $2 million per year of regional taxpayer dollars.” Recalling the recent township budget process, he reminded fellow counwred | 4

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Women of all ages gathered at the Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre in Breslau on Mar. 7 for Women of Aviation Week. From left: Anna Pangrazzi, president for the Northern Lights Award Foundation; Heather McGonigal, director of flight operations for TransWest Air and pilot; Brittany Nelson, aircraft maintenance engineer; Riel Erickson, flight commander and former F-18 pilot; Natalie Panek, rocket scientist; Sandra McDonald, avionics technician; Deanna Brasseur, one of the first women in the world trained and qualified to fly the CF-18 Hornet; and Joy Parker-Blackwood, vice-president for the Northern Lights Award Foundation. [whitney neilson / the observer]

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Perhaps eager to show it’s not a done deal, Woolwich councillors want to see plenty of public consultation before making a decision about a proposed joint development plan that would see a new school built on township property adjacent the park and community centre in Breslau. “I think we have to get the community really involved with this one,” said Coun. Larry Shantz as councillors discussed the issue Tuesday night. Fellow Ward 3 councillor Murray Martin noted the township has so far done a poor job of communicating with Breslau residents concerned about the project. The same applies to Maryhill residents unhappy about the closure of St. Boniface school in favour of a new building in Breslau. “No input, no buy-in,” he said of the need for public consultation. More public meetings and the formation of as many as three working groups are among the options being considered to improve that situation. The project would see improvements to Breslau Memorial Park as the township and Waterloo Catholic District School Board work on a shareduse agreement for the community centre, gym and playing fields. The Region of Waterloo Library is also involved, as plans call for a 5,000-square-foot shareduse library.

The province has provided the board with $5.3 million for the new project. The school will be built for 250 JK to Grade 8 students, with a target of opening in 2018. Many Breslau residents, particularly those adjacent to the park, are concerned about the project’s impact on their neighbourhood. They were out en masse at a public information session February 26. Since then, councillors and staff have received a steady stream of emails from those opposed and in favour of the project. Councillors have repeatedly denied that the proposal is a done deal, acknowledging that a poor presentation at last month’s public meeting did more harm than good. As councillors met March 10, chief administrative officer David Brenneman suggested further consultation, including the formation of a taskforce or three, one for each area of concern in the project: the school, the parkland and the library. Staff and their counterparts at the Waterloo Catholic District School board and Region of Waterloo Public Library are preparing information for a Q&A to be posted online, he said. That information is to be vetted by council beforehand. A public survey is also an option, he added, tilting in favour of a professional company doing the work given the concerns raised over the usefulness of the data collected during a

similar exercise over the casino debate in the last term of council. Unenthused by the survey option, councillors all pushed for more public input. Coun. Patrick Merlihan said the township needs more information before a decision can be made, noting that he can already see changes to the project based on the public suggestions already received. Mindful of the timelines, Coun. Mark Bauman said there’s no urgency to a decision, with staff expected to come back in a few weeks with more details about the consultation process. “We need to take all the time we need ... to determine what is best for the community and that school,” he argued. Among the outstanding issues for Shantz is the need to spell out what happens to the park if the partnership with the school board doesn’t go ahead. In that case, a school will be built on another location nearby, but without any money from the sale of township land and joint improvements to the park. He also pointed out that Bloomingdale residents want to know if putting a library in Breslau means the closure of the library in their community. He argued in favour of pushing to keep Bloomingdale open either way, “so we don’t have a battle to fight afterwards.” Further discussion is expected at a council meeting later in the month.

NEWS | 3

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2015

Wellesley eyeing increases to its fees and charges Township to look at rental rates for those community groups that raise funds for facilities, public projects Whitney Neilson Local community organizations may get a discount on recreation rental fees in Wellesley Township after council debated the merits of creating a policy to recognize the work of volunteers on Monday night. Councillor Peter van der Maas raised the issue, saying there have been complaints from non-profit groups who rent the halls. “What I hear frequently, and have for many years, is small resentments on the part of community service groups that work hard to supply equipment or the building itself and then pay the same rate as someone that’s going to do a buck and doe,” van der Maas said. “The Optimist Club, the Lions Club, people who are renting the facility for the betterment of the community, and frequently turning that money over to the township, they’re still expected to pay the same rate.” He said the problem is it devalues their contribution to the community and it discourages the volunteers. He suggested some kind of a discount be created to recognize their efforts. Director of facilities Brad Voisin said he’d look into it and gather more informa-

tion on how other communities handle the subject. “I know in other municipalities they’ve gotten away from that,” Voisin said. “What’s happening in other places is the local community group gets a discount on the rental, or a free rental, they raise money and it goes elsewhere. It might go to a needy family, it might go to Christmas lights on the streets and sometimes it doesn’t always come back to the community centre or the parks or the arenas.” Van der Maas said he’d be interesting in adopting a protocol similar to another municipality that offers discounted rental rates, but regardless of what other communities do he’d like Wellesley to offer a reduced rate for service groups. “In the name of good relations, creating a positive environment, you want to know that your efforts are appreciated,” Van der Maas said. “Because I’ve been on the other side for 25 years and it always bites a little bit: ‘Why are we paying all this money? We just put all this stuff into the community centre.’” Coun. Herb Neher noted they’ve dealt with requests for discounted or free rental rates from comfees | 5

Officials not safeguarding Elmira’s groundwater, says author of new book Scott Barber In No Guardians at the Gate, author Bob Burtt tells the story of the Elmira water crisis. A reporter and editor for more than four decades, Burtt spent 24 years with the Waterloo Region Record where he covered environmental issues, including the Elmira event. Burtt spoke at the Elmira Library March 11, in an effort to help keep the community informed on this pivotal and still very much ongoing issue. “The Elmira story has been cluttered with legal maneuvering, appeals, and science that isn’t easy to understand or explain,” he writes. “But, at its heart, the story is about a company that knew a lot about making chemicals, not much about protecting the environment; a provincial government that didn’t have the teeth, manpower or political will to enforce its laws; and residents who were prepared to do whatever it took to protect their community.” The problem rose to the fore in the fall of 1989 when the Ministry of the Environment discovered high levels of the carcinogen nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) in the drinking aquifers underneath Elmira. The revelation led to the emergency construction of

Bob Burtt spoke at the Elmira Library Mar. 11 to promote his book on the Elmira water crisis, No Guardians at the Gate. [scott barber / the observer] a pipeline from Waterloo, which supplies the town with water to this day. “The book starts in 1989 with the water crisis and follows everything that really happened afterwards,” Burtt said. “It points the finger largely at the company and the Ministry of the Environment for failing to act, and failing to bring about a meaningful cleanup. It talks about the practices the way they were back in the 1940s and 50s, and how stuff was just sort of dumped and left to sit. At

the time (before the crisis), they thought that it wasn’t a big problem because the general belief at the time was that the chemicals, over time, would neutralize and not be a problem. That of course turned out not to be true.” Through meticulous research and a wide range of interviews, Burtt chronicled the issue from its roots in the 40s to the present day. Chemtura – Uniroyal Chemical at the time, then later Crompton Co. a chemical plant in town,

was found to be the cause of the contamination. Eventually, a number of additional harmful toxins were discovered in Elmira, including chlorobenzene and DDT. Public committees formed to pressure the government to take action, but the MOE failed to go far enough, Burtt argues. And the cleanup, much of it at the public’s expense, and the legal wrangling continue. Chemtura is currently undertaking a pump-andtreat process mandated by the province. A deadline has been set for 2028, when Elmira’s aquifers are to be returned to drinking water standards. But none of the Chemtura Public Advisory Committee, the township or Burtt are optimistic that is going to happen. But there are positive lessons that can be drawn from the story. “I think people can look to Elmira and see what a good citizen is in terms of all of the people who gave up their time and basically had their lives taken over for periods of time as advocates and activists,” Burtt said. “I think it is a really good example of how we as ordinary citizens need to be very vigilant and it’s not always good enough to assume that there is a government agency or that a company is going to do the right thing.”

MPP Michael Harris’ roundabouts bill passes second reading Scott Barber Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Michael Harris is one step closer to getting roundabout-specific driving laws on the books in Ontario. His private member’s bill, the Safe Roundabouts Act, passed through the

second reading phase at Queen’s Park last week and now heads to committee for review. The bill calls for an amendment to the Highway Traffic Act, the set of laws which govern driving in the province, by defining roundabouts and also calls for the Minister of

HOW TO REACH US

Transportation to create regulations based on mandated studies and public consultations on the issue. “This is clearly an important local road safety matter,” Harris said. “I think it was only a day or two after I was first elected back in 2011, one of the first constituent concerns

that I had was when a young girl was hit by a bus on the Block Line and Home Watson roundabout (in Kitchener). And so we got digging a bit deeper and noticed that nowhere in the MPP Michael Harris Highway Traffic

Act were roundabouts even mentioned.” Bill 65 passed through its second reading March 5 with a vote of 38-4. With more than 40 roundabouts in the Waterloo

Region, this was a pressing issue, Harris said. “I am a big supporter of roundabouts. I like roundabouts,” he said. “This isn’t a debate or discussion on should we have roundabouts or not, because they are here to stay. This roundabout | 4

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4 | NEWS

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2015

waste: Region will have to move quickly to privatize transfer station before the end of the year FROM | cover

organization? So, typically what would happen is the site would be looked at and it would be canvassed around the corporation here to see if there are any other benefits; for example, we may need property for some other type of operation, and that’s usually the first step. If not, the property is then circulated to

the lower-tier municipalities if it is in their jurisdiction for potential use by them. However, in this case, because of the regional jurisdiction over waste management, the Township of Woolwich can’t take it and use it themselves specifically for waste management purposes.” If the township doesn’t have a use for the property, the facility would then be

put on the market. The problem, however, is that once the land is sold to a private buyer, there isn’t much the region or the township can do to ensure that they use the property for waste management. Furthermore, even if a private operator was interested in running a transfer station, they would have to meet both provincial and regional licensing and

strict regulations, Arsenault said. In the meantime, the cost of running the four facilities in Elmira, Linwood, Ayr and Wilmot will be $131,000, on top of the nearly $75,000 already spent from January through March. Already cut down to an every other Saturday operation schedule, two full-time staff members

were pushed out last year. Now, the equivalent of one and a half full-time staff members – made up in part time hours – will need to be added to the payroll. Regional staff have remained steadfast in their recommendation of shuttering all four stations permanently since the 2014 budget process, arguing that the some $7 million in infrastructure renovations need-

ed in the coming years will be too much of a burden. Council also voted to increase the minimum fee (three bags or less) from $2 to $5 and to eliminate the $10 half load fee, which will now fall under the $15 flat fee for loads up to 200 kilograms. Plans are also in the works to alternate operational weekends with garbage pickup weeks.

wred: Majority of council supports deferral of decision on economic development scheme FROM | cover

cillors that the township demands that longstanding community groups provided detailed financial records, audited statements and proof of need in requesting grants of up to $10,000, some for just hundreds of dollars. The bar is set much higher for those groups than for committing much more money to this plan, he noted.

“I ask councillors to now look at our own standards when we dole out public funds. We ask community groups to provide financials, and prove a need before we approve up to $10,000. Some organizations were put through the ringer for not providing proper paperwork and many others were outright dismissed. Surely our threshold to spend public money is higher than what

we are being asked of the region. I would hope that this isn’t the threshold of evidence the region uses on a regular basis,” he said of the poor documentation. “The report before you does not meet the township’s most minimum standard to approve any amount of money. We are being asked to support a report that is filled with platitudes, and little substance and commit town-

ship money for the next four years.” Shantz backed Merlihan’s call for a deferral, saying the township needs more information and more time to review any supporting documentation. “I don’t think we’ve had enough time to go through this,” he said of additional material provided prior to the meeting. Hahn called on chief administrative officer Da-

is about how we can modernize our laws to account for roundabouts throughout Ontario. We are a pioneer here in the region and we have had some growing pains.” While there have been more accidents in roundabouts in the region than at traditional intersections, the severity of the incidents are much lower, Harris said. With explicit rules on

the books, collisions could drop even lower, he added. And now, Waterloo Regional Police chief Bryan Larkin is onboard. “I have had the support of our local police chief, who is going to be making this a priority at the Ontario police chiefs traffic committee, where they have had difficult enforcing the HTA within roundabouts.” Larkin agreed, stating, “The sheer fact that the definition of a roundabout is not embedded in the

Highway Traffic Act, for us, it creates some confusion as we move through the judicial process. There’s no hard and fast rules of the road there, but I think it (the Safe Roundabouts Act) will bring some clarity to the rules. I think long term it will provide for a safer road network.” After Bill 65 goes through the general governance committee it will return to the legislature for a third reading.

Bauman

EDSS students Caitlin Ditner and Tanner Schneider earned third place in the regional Skills Canada Landscaping Team Competition at Premier Equipment on Mar. 4. They had five hours to construct their project, which included pillars, ledge walls, gardens, and an inukshuk. [whitney neilson / the observer]

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corded vote in which only Mayor Sandy Shantz and Coun. Mark Bauman opposed the request for more time and information. While agreeing the report lacks metrics and accountability, Coun. Mark Bauman pledged his support to the venture. “There’s enough substance in the report.” The issue is expected to be back on the agenda on March 24.

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vid Brenneman to provide targets and the metrics that will be used to measure them prior to council voting on the issue. Taken aback by the resistance, Brenneman said council’s caveats and demands for performance measurements could be included in the partnership agreement, allowing the process to move ahead at this point. The deferral was approved, however, in a re-

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NEWS | 5

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2015

Councillor to push for hiring freeze Raising Coun. Murray Martin’s earlier budget-time suggestion about a hiring freeze, Woolwich Coun. Patrick Merlihan served notice this week he intends to pursue a hiring freeze in the township. Prompted by last week’s decision to promote executive assistant Julie Forth to the position of deputy clerk – replacing Val Hummel following her promotion to clerk – Merlihan says now is the time for council to get a better handle on staffing levels and costs that account for half of the operating

budget. “When a vacancy occurs I would like staff to make a pitch to council to justify replacing or looking to hire more staff,” he said at Tuesday night’s council meeting. Councillors have been given little information about staffing numbers or related costs. Nor has there been any talk of the surge in staffing levels over the last decade, he noted. During earlier budget talks, he said councillors were essentially flying blind without crucial information needed to make sound financial decisions. “Council has been silent discussing staffing levels to this point. Some on

council want to pay to look to outside voices to tell us if we are overstaffed. I would like to put a hold on hiring until this council is presented more information. Through the budget process I requested that council receive job descriptions with salary ranges. I asked for five-year comparators of staffing levels. I would also like to see five- and ten-year comparators on the general operating budget.”

Elmira housing survey launched Looking to take stock of the need for affordable rental housing in

Elmira, MennoHomes is conducting a community housing survey. MennoHomes is a charitable organization that builds and rents affordable housing in Waterloo Region. While the primary focus is to determine the need for affordable rental housing, the survey should also be able to help assess the need for barrier free housing in general, says executive director Dan Driedger. The survey is available online at www. mennohomes.com. It is also being distributed by local partner agencies including Community Care Concepts, Woolwich Community Services, Woolwich Community Health Centre,

and Woolwich Counselling. The survey deadline is March 31.

Home Hardware deemed among best managed St. Jacobs-based Home Hardware was this week named one of “Canada’s Best Managed Companies” for the third consecutive year. Having initially received the designation in 2012 and 2013, the company successfully re-qualified and retained its status for 2014. Established in 1993 by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post and Queen’s School of

Business, Canada’s Best Managed Companies is the country’s leading business awards program recognizing excellence in Canadian-owned and managed companies. Applications are reviewed by an independent judging panel that evaluates how companies address various business challenges, including new technologies, brand management and leadership. Since 1964, Home has grown from 122 independent hardware dealers-owners, to a family that now includes close to 1,100 stores, more than 20,000 employees across Canada and some $5.7 billion in annual retail sales.

POLICE BLOTTER MARC H 3

Pedestrian struck near Wellesley

St. Clements straw fire

Emergency responders tended to a school-aged boy struck by a passing vehicle in front of 4372 Weimar Line in Wellesley on Thursday morning. [joe merlihan / the observer]

Firefighters battled a burning pile of straw on Lobsinger Line in St. Clements on Mar. 5 after a the load caught fire while a farmer was delivering it. The road was closed to Herrgott Road while crews extinguished the flames. The investigation is ongoing. [whitney neilson / the observer]

2:06 PM | Wellington County OPP reported the recovery of a vehicle of interest, a newer model Mazda SUV that had been previously reported as stolen, believed to have been involved in the robbery of the RBC branch in Drayton the previous day. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone that may have witnessed a vehicle matching the description at the time of the offence with a female driver and dark shoulder length hair or with any other information regarding this crime is asked to call the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. MARC H 5

2:25 PM | A pair of sunglasses was taken from a car parked on Country Spring Walk in Conestogo. 3:45 PM | Police and St. Clements firefighers responded to a fire on Lobsinger Line in St. Clements. A farmer was delivering round bales of straw when the load caught fire. The large fire was quickly extinguished. Lobsinger Line was closed for the duration of the event. The investigation is on-

going. There were no injuries. The value of the straw was estimated at $720 plus the cost of the trailer. 6:38 PM | A resident of an Arthur Street South, Elmira address reported the theft of a cell phone. MARC H 7

8:00 PM | A homeowner discovered a 20-year-old male inside

his vehicle attempting a theft in the driveway at their residence in New Hamburg. The homeowner caught the suspect and made a citizen’s arrest. Police arrived and took over the arrest from the homeowner, who fought with the suspect for several minutes while police were responding. The suspect is charged with ‘assault with intent to resist arrest,’ ‘attempt theft,’ ‘breach

probation’ and ‘trespass by night.’ He was held for bail hearing. MARC H 8

12:19 PM | A collision between a snowmobile and a van occurred at Boomer Line and Herrgott Road in Wellesley Township. The investigation continues, but the driver of the sled was charged with ‘failing to yield.’

2:27 PM | The drivers involved in a fender-bender on Benjamin Road south of St. Jacobs appeared at the collision reporting centre.

4:21 PM | A collision occurred in a parking lot on Menno Street in Breslau. Damage was minor and there were no injuries.

MARC H 9

5:11 PM | A car parked on East Tree Drive in Breslau was struck by another vehicle. No one was injured. The investigation continues.

11:12 AM | A resident of William Street in Elmira reported the theft of a licence plate from their snowmobile trailer.

FEES: Some charges, including ice rental rates, will see increases of 3% come into effect May 1 FROM | 3

munity groups on an ad hoc basis in the past. He said they considered the type of group, if it was a fundraiser, and where the money would be going before deciding. Voisin said groups often come to him with their request and he prepares a report for council, or they come to council as a del-

egation. “As soon as we hear the word fundraiser, if they’re going to make money, it was a previous council’s decision that we’re going to try to get back our operating costs on that rental,” Voisin said. Van der Maas said rather than looking at requests on a case-by-case basis, he’d prefer to see a policy which outlines which community

groups are eligible and for what activities. Coun. Shelley Wagner advised council should be careful about offering a discounted rate. Mayor Joe Nowak agreed it will be essential to outline who gets the break and who doesn’t because as soon as you offer a discount, every group will want it. “I think it’s an honour-

able thing to consider. Maybe we can come up with something, but somehow or other we’re going to have to find a way to control it,” Nowak said. Other proposed changes include an increase in ice rental rates per hour at the St. Clements and Wellesley arenas. They’re suggesting an increase from $164.01 to $168.93 for prime time, and $101.96 to $105.01 for

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non prime time. Weekday mornings before 9 a.m. Monday to Friday would go from $60.94 to $62.76. Twin Centre Minor Sports (ringette, hockey, figure skating, Special Olympic curling) would be $107.43, compared to $104.29 last year. The increases reflect a three per cent change due to inflation and would come into effect on May 1.

As a side note, Voisin requested a full-time employee to help out the recreation department during the summer when they have busy weekends with softball tournaments and weddings, and also for winter events like Silver Stick hockey tournaments. The changes to fees and charges will be up for bylaw approval at the March 17 meeting of council.

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6 | COMMENT

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

JOE MERLIHAN PUBLISHER STEVE KANNON EDITOR

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Our view / editorial

The VIEW from here

Breslau must decide on merits of school project Coun. Murray Martin’s assertions that the township has bungled communication with Breslau residents over a proposed school project comes as no surprise. There’s a long history of that from township hall, and a longstanding sense of alienation in that community. The project itself isn’t – or shouldn’t be – all that controversial. It’s a school, not a gravel pit – Woolwich has had plenty of experience with those – or a loud, noxious industrial plant. Those whose property abuts the land can’t be blamed for being leery: they moved in beside parkland, and they’d like to see it stay that way. A grade school will come with some noise, perhaps a bit more mess, but the hours will be limited, and the property largely vacant during the summer months. There are those who object to selling off parkland, whatever the proposed use. They, too, have a case. Selling off public assets is not a step to be taken lightly, as some members of council will remember from the debate over Victoria Glen in Elmira. There is a difference, however, as the Elmira case involved selling land to private developers to finance projects elsewhere. There was also the issue of cutting down trees and despoiling a bit of nature. The Breslau parkland is nothing of the sort, and the land would remain in public use, albeit in the hands of a school board rather than the township. Still, opponents have a point when they talk about precedent this proposal would set. Who’s to say future needs for cash won’t be addressed by the sale of assets? On the upside, the project would bring a large cash infusion to the property. A host of improvements would follow, none of them likely in the absence of the deal. The area will get a school no matter what, either in the park or on a nearby lot. If the latter, however, none of the financial benefits come to the municipality. As a bonus, the proposal includes a library branch. The safety concerns raised by a few appear unfounded given that similar joint ventures operate elsewhere, including in the region, without a hiccup. The pros and cons of this project aside, this is just the latest indicator of the sometimes troubled relationship between Breslau residents and the township administration. Behind many stories involving Breslau residents is a lingering dissatisfaction with the community’s place in Woolwich. There’s no secessionist movement, but there’s almost always an undercurrent of playing second fiddle to other settlements in Woolwich, particularly Elmira and St. Jacobs. That’s particularly true on the recreation file – we’re talking parkland here – given the $23 million spent on the WMC in Elmira. Some residents are asking questions about the hundreds of thousands of dollars in development charges collected via all the new homes built in the village. Why, for instance, can’t that money pay for park improvements rather than the sale of land? Throw in some good, old-fashioned distrust of government – often warranted – and the proposal needs a better sales job than the township’s offered up so far. Here, we’re back to Coun. Martin’s comments about communication. This is not the first time, but if the project is as good as some at the township hall think it is, then they should do a much better job engaging the community, which will be the ultimate arbiter of the project’s merits.

As past experience has shown, it’s best to do your homework before you spend, especially when it’s other people’s money that you’re betting with. WORLD view / GWYNNE DYER

Planning for the worst-case scenario with Islamic State WORLD AFFAIRS It’s often a good idea, when faced with a really frightening situation, to model the “worst case” outcome and see how bad it could get. That can be quite bad, but it’s rarely as bad as the half-formed fears that build up if you don’t actually analyse the problem. Like Islamic State, for example. It began with the conquest of parts of eastern Syria by an Islamist group called ISIS (Islamic State in Iraq and Syria) in 2011-13. Its founders were almost all Iraqis who had got their start fighting the American occupation of their country. They were allegedly in Syria to help overthrow Bashar al-Assad’s dictatorship, but they actually spent their time conquering territory held by other rebel groups. Once ISIS had a territorial base in eastern Syria, its fighters surged back across the border into Iraq in June, 2014 and captured Mosul, Iraq’s third-largest

city. First the hopeless Iraqi army and then the supposedly competent Kurdish army crumbled in front of them. In July ISIS declared the border abolished and proclaimed the foundation of the “Islamic State” in the conquered parts of both Syria and Iraq. A few days later the leader of ISIS, Abu Baqr al-Baghdadi, declared in a sermon in Mosul’s great mosque of al-Nuri that he is the caliph to whom all Muslims owe obedience. It was a bold step – there has been no caliph since 1924 – but it had great resonance among those many Muslims who blamed the collapse of the Islamic world’s power and prosperity on the neglect of its traditional religious institutions and values. Since then, Islamic State has conquered no more territory. Its one big offensive, against the Kurdish enclave of Kobane along the Turkish border, was defeated after thousands of ISIS fighters died in the attempt to take it. Aircraft from the U.S., other Western countries, and various conservative Arab countries patrol the skies over

Islamic State, bombing anything that looks even vaguely military. Yet it still scares people to death. One reason is its sheer ferocity and endlessly inventive cruelty. It crucifies people, hacks their heads off, burns them alive and posts videos boasting about it all. It attracts large numbers of recruits from the Sunni Muslims living in the Arab lands now included in Islamic State, but also thousands of eager volunteers from other Muslim countries and from the Muslim diaspora in the West. Islamic State is now collecting pledges of allegiance from like-minded Islamist fighting groups in other Muslim countries, each of which lends a little more credibility to its claim to be the new caliphate. In November Islamist groups in Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Yemen and Saudi Arabia all declared that they acknowledged al-Baghdadi, now calling himself Caliph Ibrahim, as their leader and guide. Little more has been heard from the Yemeni, Saudi and Algerian groups, but the Egyptian group,

Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis, controls parts of the Sinai peninsula, regularly attacks the Egyptian army, and was officially designated a “province” (wilayat) of the Islamic State in November. Libya, where Islamist groups have been gaining ground in the civil war, was carved into three further “provinces” at the same time. In late January a former commander of the Pakistani Taleban and ten other jihadi leaders from Pakistan and Afghanistan also acknowledged al-Baghdadi’s authority, and declared that they constituted the new IS “province” of Khorasan, taking in those two countries and “other nearby lands.” Then last Saturday Abubakar Shekau, the leader of the militant group Boko Haram, which controls much of northeastern Nigeria, also pledged allegiance to Islamic State: “We announce our allegiance to the caliph ... and will hear and obey in times of difficulty and prosperity. We call on Muslims everywhere to pledge allegiance DYER | 8

COMMENT | 7

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

Their view / question OF THE WEEK

What are your March Break plans?

»»Kaitlyn Heldmann

»»Calum Crawford

»»Kayla Raben

»»Ethan Warren

»»Amilya Wilson

“I’m going over to my grandma’s house.”

“I’m going to be going to Tatlock to see my baby cousin named Alice.”

“I’m going to my friend’s house.”

“Play sports and hang out at my house.”

“For the first couple days I’m going to hang out in my pajamas. And then I’m going to hang out with my family.”

“The broader struggle against Islamist extremism will probably continue for at least a decade ...” Gwynne Dyer | 6 HIS view / STEVE KANNON

Quality of jobs continue to slide, a decades-long trend EDITOR'S NOTES The quality of jobs is on a downward slide. More workers find themselves in precarious part-time or self-employed positions. For many of those lucky enough to find full-time jobs, compensation levels are falling. The prospects for a better future are fading. The wild-eyed musings of the Occupy movement? Nope. The findings of one of Canada’s big banks, CIBC, in its latest employment quality index. The report, penned by deputy chief economist Benjamin Tal, finds job quality in Canada is now at a record low, with little sign it will turn around in the near future. Worse still, the declines in all measures are likely structural rather than cyclical – they’re here to stay. “The damage caused to full-time employment during each recession was, in many ways, permanent. That is, full-time job cre-

ation was unable to accelerate fast enough during the recovery to recover lost ground. The good news is that for the past year, the number of full-time jobs rose twice as fast as the number of part-time jobs – a factor that worked to offset some of the recent softening in our index,” says Tal in the report released last week. He follows a bit of optimism with a caveat. “While full-time paidemployment jobs are on average of higher quality than part-time and selfemployment jobs, not all full-time paid-employment jobs were created equal. The number of low-paying full-time jobs has risen faster than the number of mid-paying jobs, which in turn, has risen faster than the number of high-paying jobs,” says Tal. “Over the year ending January 2015, the job creation gap between low and high-paying jobs has widened with the number of low-paying full-time paid positions rising twice as fast as the number of highpaying jobs. Those trajectories are largely behind the

HOW TO REACH US

the number of high-paying jobs. Those changes are largely behind the declines in the bank’s employment quality index over the past two decades. And the trend continues: Over the year ending January 2015, the job creation gap between low and high-paying jobs has widened with the number of low-paying full-time paid positions rising twice as fast as the number of high-paying jobs. The numbers belie both federal and provincial government claims of an improving job market. Officials cite the number of new jobs, but fail to point out that most are part-time, with no benefits or steady hours. When flagging the creation of full-time jobs, they omit the fact most are in the low-paying service sector. Then there’s the likes of federal Finance Minister Joe Oliver talking about how there are more jobs today than at any point in Canada’s history, neglecting to point out that the country’s population is likewise higher than ever. The current workforce of 17 million people today is larger than the coun-

try’s entire population when the big bulge of Baby Boom workers were born. Oliver’s statement is true in its limited form, but irrelevant. Of more interest is the fact that the percentage of Canadians with a job is lower today than at the lowest point of the finance industry-fueled recession of 2008-2009. Last fall, University of Ottawa economics professor and Broadbent Institute policy fellow Miles Corak painted a troubling portrait based on data from the previous decade. Along with the low overall employment rate, young workers also continue to struggle. For men, employment levels have been stagnant for three years, while the rate for women has been in decline since the end of 2013. Things aren’t likely to get better given falling oil prices, a sinking loonie and a hollowed-out manufacturing sector less able to take advantage of prime conditions for U.S. exports. Much harder hit in 2008 than we were, the U.S. economy is now growing at twice the rate of ours. Our neighbour

has long had a productivity advantage, and the gap is increasing, further reducing employment prospects here. As a TD Economics report from last fall notes, we can expect to face challenges with the removal of the commodity and real estate booms that cushioned our economy post-2008. “As a small, trade-oriented economy, Canada is deeply affected by the international forces of globalization, technological change, and competition for talent. Many middleincome and middle-skill jobs have been outsourced or replaced by technology. The fact that Canada has not seen more hollowing out of the middle class, like the experience in the U.S., is primarily due to the commodity and housing boom. Excluding these and related sectors, Canada’s middle skill jobs have been under considerable pressure.” Those two sectors have helped mask some inherent weaknesses in the economy. As many have pointed out, Harper put all our eggs kannon | 8

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softening in our measure of employment quality over the past two decades.” The reality of falling fortunes for low- and middleincome earners in Canada is reflected in an EKOS poll, also released last week, showing 34 per cent of Canadians say they have “fallen behind” over the last year. Only 18 per cent say they’ve “moved ahead.” Moreover – and not lost on those mindful of the Harper government’s dismal economic record – a third of those polled feel they’ve fallen behind in the past decade, not just postrecession. The dimming outlook is not lost on Canadians. Lower quality employment has been the norm for decades, coinciding with the declining middle class. The growing pressures aren’t unrelated to record high personal debt levels as Canadians borrow to offset changes in the employment market. The CIBC report indicated the number of low-paying jobs has risen faster than the number of mid-paying jobs, which in turn, has risen faster than

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8 | COMMENT

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

The MONITOR

VERBATIM

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

A report on the 2014 general election urges the government to take immediate action on his top three recommendations to improve Ontario’s electoral process: establish a single address authority to help improve the accuracy of the voter’s list; level the playing field by strengthening the regulations on third party advertising; plan for the future by creating consistent standards to evaluate the integration of technologies into the electoral process.

“Kathleen Wynne wants to hold a fire sale of Hydro One, but Ontario’s public institutions are not hers to sell off. Ontarians expect their government to help make their electricity bills more affordable, not the other way around. This is a short-sighted gamble, by a desperate Liberal government.”

While overall Canada experienced one of the smallest census-tocensus growth rates in its population at 4%, both Woolwich and Wellesley townships outpaced those numbers and are more in line with Ontario’s growth rate of 6.1%. Details from the 2001 census, released this week, show Woolwich’s population to be 18,201, up 5.1% from the 1996 census number of 17,325. In Wellesley the census found 9,365 residents, up 8.1% from 8,664.

»»Ontario Chief Electoral Officer Greg Essensa

»»NDP leader Andrea Horwath reacts to reports the province is looking at a sale of

»»From the Mar. 16, 2002 edition of The Observer

shares in Hydro One as a quick fix to generate cash for a government unable to balance the books

Dyer: We can expect at least

National view

another decade of struggle

FROM | 6

to the caliph.” It’s certainly making progress, but how far can it go? Probably not much further. All the new “provinces” of Islamic State, like most of the original ones, are in mainly rural areas, often sparsely populated, and with few natural resources (except some oil, in Libya’s case). They are areas that corrupt and autocratic governments, many of them distracted by civil war, can simply abandon for the short term as not vital for their survival. For Islamic State to seize big metropolitan areas and their resources would require a level of popular support in those areas that is unlikely to emerge. Big cities are full of relatively sophisticated people who

have something to lose, and are unlikely to see Islamic State as an attractive solution for their problems. Without the big cities and their communications facilities – especially airports and harbours – there can be little effective cooperation between the widely dispersed “provinces” of Islamic State. They will have to go on fighting their own wars with little outside help, and some they will lose. The broader struggle against Islamist extremism will probably continue for at least a decade, and impose heavy costs on the people of the Middle East. But ultra-radical organizations like ISIS and Boko Haram are likely to break up in bitter theological disputes a lot quicker than that.

kannon: Foundation of our

economy is very much at risk FROM | 7

2015 Registration ONLINE Registration now available at:

woolwichbaseball.com

www.

Registration Deadline: March 31, 2015

Thursday March 26th from 6:30 - 8:30pm

LETTERS

South Woolwich Minor Baseball House League DIVISIONS

AGES

RATES

TO THE EDITOR

GAME NIGHT(S)

T-Ball ............................................(2011, 2010).................$60 ........................ Wednesdays Rookie Ball.....................................(2009, 2008).................$60 ...........................Mondays Junior Ball................................. (2007, 2006, 2005) ............$85 .................. Monday/Wednesday Senior Ball ................................ (2004, 2003, 2002) ............$85 .................... Tuesday/Thursday Intermediate Ball................... (2001, 2000, 1999, 1998)........$85 .................. Monday/Wednesday

in one basket, ignoring calls for economic diversification – especially the production of higher valueadded goods and services – in favour of believing the cyclical boom-and-bust cycle of commodities had switched into a permanent boom time. Likewise, real estate

prices, rising beyond the usual correction period, have lulled many of us into taking on evermore debt to finance what the failing economy has been unable to provide: a share in the growing national wealth. That situation is only the appearance of prosperity. As with the oil patch situation, our shaky foundation is very much at risk.

Season set to begin week of May 18 through July 9

*Weather Permitting

For more information please contact: Terry Kraemer, League President | woolwichbaseball@gmail.com

Have something to say? editor@woolwichobserver.com

We’re only a click away.

SPORTS | 9

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

SPORTS hockey / junior b

Sugar Kings draw first blood in second round of playoffs Home crowd sees team skate to a 4-2 victory over the Waterloo Siskins on Wednesday night at the WMC Whitney Neilson Proper execution was key to success for the Elmira Sugar Kings on Wednesday night as they defeated the Waterloo Siskins 4-2 in the first game of the second round of playoff action. Roughly 665 fans filled into the Dan Snyder Arena to watch the closely matched teams battle it out. Head coach Jeff Flanagan was pleased with the team’s effort for the full 60 minutes. “I think for the most part we executed the things that we wanted to, especially things like safe defensive plays, [third forward] high in the offensive zone and not turning pucks over on scary places on the ice,” Flanagan said. Both teams were hot from the start, attacking each side aggressively. It’s clear the rivalry from last year, where the Siskins edged the Sugar Kings out of the playoffs in the second round, hasn’t dissipated. Elmira’s Klayton Hoelscher got things rolling in the first with a pass from Brodie Whitehead, also assisted by Brendan Schneider. “Our effort was really good and we certainly got some point production from some players that

maybe haven’t all year been scoring a lot of points.” Flanagan said. “But in the playoffs that’s what you need, some of the secondary scoring, which turns into our primary scoring tonight.” Waterloo evened it out five minutes into the second frame with a shot from Connor Bodnar, helped by Luke Gazzola and Danny Hanlon. But the Kings kept working hard, as Schneider (Zac Coulter, Mac Clutsam) hit the top shelf to lead the game 2-1 going into the final period. “Throughout the season we were kind of up and down against them. I don’t know if we had a great, full effort against them all year,” Flanagan said. “Maybe two games, and then the games that we lost we were really good at some points and then whether it was penalties or we had some issues scoring and it took the momentum away, that really changed the game for us.” He said from an effort perspective they played a much better game on Wednesday than during the regular season – a huge improvement from the January 11 game where Waterloo downed them 8-4. They must have had a good pep talk between Kings | 11

not so great outdoorsman / STEVE GALEA

Talking up some really great bullet points OPEN COUNTRY Yesterday I wrote an email to the representative of a rifle manufacturer for a work-related issue. I was looking for information about a new stalking rifle being introduced in 2015. Normally, this is nothing to write about. Sadly, my editing skills failed me that day and I made a typo. Instead of asking about the new stalking rifle, I asked for information about a new “talking rifle.” I think you can see where I’m going here. After all, these are two very different things. One statement makes a man look a little knowledgeable and the other makes him look a little crazy. Heck, even I was aware of this. Needless to say, I caught this mistake – as we all do – just a micro-second after I pressed the send button. And less than an hour later, I received a call from a distributor of the product who provided me with a somber interview regarding the rifle in question. No mention was made of the typo. At this point, it occurred

With a goal and two assists, Brendan Schneider led the Sugar Kings to a 4-2 win over Waterloo in the first game of the second round of playoffs on Wednesday night in Elmira. [Whitney Neilson / The Observer]

Galea | 11

Local gymnasts catch lightning at the Falls

Youngsters with the Woolwich Gymnastic Club bring home 38 medals from the competition Whitney Neilson

Woolwich Gymnastic Club’s competitive team didn’t disappoint at last week’s Lightning by the Falls Competition in Niagara Falls, bringing home nearly 40 gold, silver, and bronze medals. The team competes in it every year, said head coach Maria Code.

“This is one of the first competitions for some of the girls this season,” Code said. “It’s a big competition. The girls always look forward to it and they did really well this year.” Of the 17 gymnasts on the team, 12 came home with medals. They competed in all four events, floor, vault, bars, and beam. “This competition’s nice

because they compete individually and then within their appropriate levels they have a team award,” Code explained. “So, the level twos won third place in team and the level threes won second. So that’s also fun for them to work together as a team.” The competition season starts in January, but they train year-round. They

hold tryouts every May for the team and start training in July. Some of the girls on the team have been competing for five years, while for others this was their first time. “The ones that this is their first year, they’re really stepping up and doing a really great job. The older girls that have been competing for a while are nice

role models to look up to,” Code said. She said one of the most challenging parts of competing is nailing down the execution, like making sure their arms and legs are straight, keeping their toes pointed, and getting to 180 degree splits on their splits, leaps, and jumps. “They all did really well, but I have to say one girl,

Kennedy Bradley, this was her first meet and she did wonderful,” Code said. She had the highest all around [score] out of all the girls that competed on our team, just some personal highs for her. So that was really good to see.” Bradley got first place in bars, floor, and all gymnasts | 10

10 | SPORTS

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

Pitches still snow-covered, but local soccer registration is in full swing Whitney Neilson

The Woolwich Juvenile A team starts OMHA finals this week versus Erie North Shore. Back row: Dalton Wojcik, head coach Mike Bender, Jasper Bender, Clinton Dechert, Tristen White, Alex David,‎Nick Bauman, Dalton Taylor, Andrew Jansen, assistant coach Matt Shantz, Connor Jansen, Trainer Garry Mayberry. Front row: Adam Cook, Tyler Mayberry, Jordan Moore, Logan White, Ryan Schinker, Brad Schopp. Missing: assistant coach/trainer Mike Moggy and Darren Martin. [Submitted]

Juveniles in OMHA finals this weekend Woolwich squad confident going into match against Erie North at the WMC Whitney Neilson Perseverance and a love of the game have paid off for the Woolwich Juvenile A hockey team, as they’re advancing to the Ontario Minor Hockey Association finals this weekend. But it wasn’t smooth sailing from the beginning of the season, says team captain Logan White. “We weren’t winning, tying a lot of games, losing and then we went to Silver Stick in Sarnia and ever since then we’ve been playing really well,” White said. “We’ve been winning and started gelling as a team.” They finished first overall in the OMHA semifinals. They played against Quinte West, TNT (New Tecumseth) and Erie North Shore, only losing one game to Erie North Shore, who they now face in the finals. “I’m pretty confident that we’re going to take it home,” White said. “I have to be confident that we’re going to take it home. We lost to these guys last year in the

semis, but we beat them before and I know we can do it again, so we’re going to come strong.” As one of six players who’ll age out of the team this year, he says knowing this is their last shot of winning a banner is what’s driving them to win. “It’s pretty exciting for everyone,” White said. He says the team’s hoping to see a big crowd come out to the Woolwich Memorial Centre this weekend to cheer them on. Coach Mike Bender says at the start of the season they had trouble scoring, losing games by just a goal. Despite this, he says they always competed. “We had been building our momentum to the end of the season, and we never got negative,” Bender said. “We always try to keep it positive and then I said now it’s a new slate. Now with the playoffs it’s a new season and let’s put into play what we’ve worked on.” The key to their success has been paying attention to the little things and doing them right. They’ve

been committed to the team, always showing up to games and practices. “One of the things I stressed as a coach is that it’s their team and their leaders have to show everybody that they can work as hard as any other team they come up against, and they’ve really risen to the challenge,” Bender said. “They’re really into it. It makes me happy that they’re in the finals.” He adds they’ve had good goaltending from both goalies, Nick Bauman and Brad Schopp. The team is a good mix, with six over agers and a split of veterans and rookies. It costs each player $1,000 to play on the team, a fee Bender doesn’t take lightly. “A lot of them are working and they have to pay for it themselves,” Bender said. “I made this their team. Everyone’s come to the rink in a positive, upbeat enjoyable setting all year. Whereas, if you’re playing junior and you’re a fourth liner, you could be going to the rink and sitting on the bench,

not being a part of the game as much as you’d like.” He said it will likely be a tough series because Erie North Shore is a big team too and they come ready to play. They have home ice advantage in a best of five series versus Erie North Shore. Their first game is today (March 14) at 3 p.m. at the Woolwich Memorial Centre. They’re away the following day for a 2:30 p.m tilt. Game three will be March 21 at 3 p.m. at the WMC. If need be, game four will be March 22 at 4:45 p.m. in Erie and game five at 3 p.m. in St. Jacobs on March 28. “We’re asking the Woolwich community to come out and support the guys,” Bender said. “They’ll be pleasantly surprised at how good of a hockey game these two teams can play. I know that I took a lot of people’s comments after Erie North Shores had come up and played us in the round robin, and they were surprised at how fast and hard hitting the hockey is. It is a good hockey game.”

gymnasts: Team getting ready for remaining competitions from | 9

around, plus third in vault and beam for the level two 10-year-olds. Allison Saulesleja scored the highest in a single event for the team with a 9.9 on her floor routine, earning her a gold medal for the level three 12-year-olds. The team earned a total 14 gold, 10 silver, and 14 bronze medals. They have three competitions left this season. The next one is in Brampton from April 16 to April 18. Then they head to Woodbridge and Milton.

“And then we have a fun meet at the end of the year here that we invite a couple clubs in,” Code said. “It’s just fun for the kids to wrap up the season with and that’s May 30.”

The Woolwich Gymnastics Club’s competitive team brought home nearly 40 top-three medals from the Lightning by the Falls Competition. Front row: Aurora Rueffer, Welcome Gilbert, Jordyn Kelly, Alex Kirkup, Julia Ersil. Middle row: Trinity Barnes, Allison Saulesleja, Mackenzie Simpson, Kennedy Bradley, Tegan Krieger. Back row: Makenna Heibein. [Whitney Neilson / The Observer]

With snow and ice still on the ground it’s hard to think about throwing on shorts to lob around the soccer ball outside, but that’s just what parents and kids have been doing as soccer registration kicked off this month in Woolwich and Wellesley. Woolwich Youth Soccer Club president Steve Lillico said they’re at about half of their registration numbers as they had last year at this point, likely because of the poor weather, but they expect it to fill up. “We’re offering an online registration process this year that seems to be quite seamless and we also still have registration through the office during office hours,” Lillico said. “I would advise people to get in as quickly as they can because we obviously have some programs that will fill up sooner than others.” Representative, or rep, teams are already underway practicing indoors. They’re mostly full and he expects the programs for younger players, the mini leagues, to fill up quickly. They had over 1,100 registrants last year and they expect that number to grow again. “We had good success on the field, and the house league teams ran without any issues and everyone seemed to have fun, which is the general basis of where you need to be,” Lillico said. “Our rep teams fared well in the league and some of them won promotion to new divisions and some of them had good success at tournaments.” U14 girls and U16 girls are both playing in the Western Ontario League, which is a regional league, opposed to the district league they played in last year. They were promoted for finishing in first place. “Both of them are expecting to do well,” Lillico said. “The one team, the under 14s played teams from this level last year and fared very well. When the U16s met one of these teams in a tournament they did play well too. I think they’ll hold their own at the new level.” Whether or not they’ll finish in first place at the new level is up for debate, but he expects they’ll maintain their position and not be relegated by finishing in last at the end of the season. They’ll be holding their Woolwich Invitational Tour-

nament again in August and they’re hoping to break their record of 90 teams from last year. They’d like to see 100 teams participate, but the number of available fields in the township limit them. “We don’t really have enough facilities yet to offer the type of programs that we would really like,” Lillico said. “We’re still waiting for the township to come good with some of the promises that they’ve made over the years.” He said they could use some more different sized fields, which he’s been told are coming with the new Lunor subdivision. He’d also like to see an indoor facility so teams could practice on turf throughout the winter, instead of in gyms. “We have a house league going on right now in the golf centre at Max’s but we could offer a larger program if we had an indoor facility,” Lillico said. They’ve been offering monthly drop-in skills session, and the next one is on the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival Saturday, March 28, at 8 a.m. at Max’s Golf Dome in St. Jacobs. House leagues will start in May as soon as the township has the fields ready. Soccer registration has just begun in Wellesley and Wellesley Soccer League president Greg Gedcke says they’ve had more than 300 kids registered in the past. This has grown from just over 200 kids when they started. “Last year we added an U16 girls team and this year we are hoping to grow to add an U16 boys team,” Gedcke said. They added online registration two years ago to make registration easier. He says the U4 and U6 teams play just in Wellesley. “The new soccer development program does not support the competitive tournament style at the younger ages,” Gedcke said. “These teams will play against St. Clements, Woolwich and Wilmot. The U14 and U16s play at least one tournament during their season.” All teams will start midMay and the younger ages will play to mid-July, with older teams playing until mid-August. “Wellesley is growing so we hope that our soccer numbers continue to increase,” Gedcke said. “Soccer is definitely a popular sport for our town.”

SPORTS | 11

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

galea: Some new and novel advances in rifle technology is just crazy talk ... or is it? from | 9

to me things got awkward shortly after the interview began. For one thing, the sales rep did not acknowledge the “talking rifle” typo, though he clearly read the email. This led me to make an uncomfortable joke about the incident, hoping to head off a rumour that I was, in fact, a little crazy. This joke, however, was not well received. In fact, it was

ignored in what I suspect was a deliberate attempt at professionalism. This, of course, is not something I’m used to. There was not even a chuckle from the guy. Can you believe that? That interview then proceeded with all the mirth generally associated a Viking funeral pyre. So, when it was over I gave it more thought. “Hmmm ... talking rifle?

Yup, that’s funny,” I muttered. At times like this you can only wonder, “Why did the sales guy not acknowledge that? Why didn’t he laugh?” Suddenly, another thought occurred to me. “He’s going to pitch the idea of a talking rifle and he will probably make millions! Worse yet, I won’t see a dime of it!” There and then, I envisioned the rifle saying insin-

cere things like “Good shot!” or “Anybody would have missed that one.” I even thought it might utter helpful phrases like, “Don’t forget to take the safety off this time.” Or “Look pal, I really need a good cleaning.” I then imagined this catching on. The next step, I thought would be rifles speaking in accents associated with their country of origin. I mean that would be cool, right?

Looking at this in hindsight, it’s easy to see this was a far-fetched idea. But, back in those heady times of a day ago, the world was full of possibilities. Plus, I was really bored. Yet, as I fondly look back to yesterday, it’s clear to see what seemed like a minor incident still carries repercussions to this very day. For one thing, that sales rep lets my calls go directly to voicemail now.

I mentioned this to Jenn at dinner last night and, after carefully considering it, she said, “Please pass the peas.” But the second time I mentioned it, she muttered, “Don’t worry about it. The talking rifle is a crazy idea..” I thought about it and figured she was right too. It makes no sense. Then again, this morning, I left that guy a message on his talking phone.

Kings: After a match in Waterloo Saturday, the two teams return to Elmira Sunday evening from | 9

periods, or just found their groove because at 4:50 in the third Coulter (Schneider, Whitehead) buried the puck in the Siskins net. This was followed less than a minute later by the fourth goal of the night, as Rob Kohli (Connor Hall, Alex Mutton) snatched a breakaway and ripped it past Siskins goalie Evgeny Kiselev. The Kings swept the first round of playoffs in four games against the Brampton Bombers. Waterloo also swept their series against Guelph. “Brampton worked very hard, but I think with regards to how to do things, execute better, making sure

we’re doing the things that the coaches are asking the players to do is much more imperative because if you don’t, [Waterloo’s] got a really good team and players who can really put the puck in the net if they get an opportunity,” Flanagan said. “That’s the difference is the execution. Where we had a little bit more time and space against Brampton, that’s certainly not the case here against Waterloo.” Late in the period Waterloo’s Michael Romund (Christian Mroczkowski, Kyle Betts) brought the score to 4-2, but they couldn’t close the gap any further. Even pulling Kiselev didn’t afford them

Zac Coulter rushes Siskin Danny Hanlon for the puck in a 4-2 decision at the WMC, where Coulter scored a goal and an assist. [Whitney Neilson / The Observer]

any more successful scoring opportunities. Flanagan noted the Kings have been excellent all season when playing with one man down, as they did for the 6-on-5 action at the end of the game. “We look at it as a penalty kill,” Flanagan said. “We use our penalty kill systems to kill that off, just getting pucks and freezing them or as we say grinding it out to kill more time.” The Kings headed down to Waterloo to take on the Siskins in the second game of the best-of-seven series on Saturday for a 1:30 p.m. tilt. They return to home ice on Sunday. The puck drops at 7 p.m. at the WMC.

THE SCORE

Novice LL3 team advances

WOOLWICH WILDCATS

Tyke Select March 5 vs Milton Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Keaton Kidd, Jocob Noot, Ethan Burkholder Assists: Connor Goebel, Mitchell Roemer, Hayden Weber Player of Game: Ethan Burholder

Tyke Select March 8 vs Hespeler Home: 3 Visitor: 0 Goals: Owen Weppler, Hayden Weber, Matthew Darrigan Assists: Ethan Burkholder (2), Cameron Beisel, Connor Goebel Novice: Major A Feb. 26 vs Caledon Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Pacey Camm, Mitchell Walker Assists: Evan Passmore, Pacey Camm

Novice: Major A Feb. 27 vs Brampton Home: 5 Visitor: 2 Goals: Sam Ratcliffe (4), Ian Leech Assists: Stuart Sinclair (2), Elijah Weiss Feb. 24 vs Halton Hills Home: 11 Visitor: 0 Goals: Brady Martin (2), Eric Kane, Mitchell Walker (2), Nathan Martin (3), Pacey Camm (3) Assists: Michael Gear (3), Liam Wood, Elijah Wiess, Isaac Lopers, Brady Martin (3), Sam Ratcliffe, Eric Kane (2), Evan Passmore

Woolwich Wildcats Novice LL #3 players celebrate the playoff win that takes them to the finals. They beat Twin Centre to advance. [Submitted] (3), Pacey Camm Shutout: Tyler Fisher

Assists: Ethan Adams, Andrew Snyder, Owen Tettman

Novice: AE

Novice: LL#3

March 4 vs Halton Hills Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Hunter Brown, Owen Weber Assists: Daniel Kochut, Preston Hackert, Kane Kruschat March 8 vs Orangeville Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Andrew Chumley, Seth Shantz, Cale Waechter Assists: Daniel Kochut, Cale Waechter, Kane Kruschat, Andrew Chumley

Novice: LL #1 March 7 vs St. George LL #1 Home: 5 Visitor: 2 Goals: Josh Uhrig (3), Brandon Fishman, Brienne Brezynskie

March 7 vs Twin Centre #1 Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Tyson Bauman, Riley Dettweiller (2) Assists: Riley Dettweiller, Declan Johnson (2), Jack Hacock

Atom: Minor A March 5 vs Guelph Home: 1 Visitor: 3 Goals: Parker Collingwood Assists: Joey Martin, Cade Beacom

Atom: AE Red Feb. 22 vs Woolwich Blue Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Jonathon Enns, Seb Garrett (2) Assists: Logan Beard, Seb

Garrett March 1 vs New Hamburg Home: 5 Visitor: 4 Goals: Lucas Radler (2), Haiden Idzik, Seb Garrett (2) Assists: Jonathon Enns, Oscar Fitch (2), Will McDougall, Nolan Williamson, Mitch Hartman, Ethan Murr Feb. 27 vs Centre Wellington Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Oscar Fitch

Atom: LL #2 March 7 vs Paris Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Turner Duldhardt (3) Assists: Emmett Weissenboeck (2), Ryan Wingrove, Ashton Weber, Nathan Lipp

PeeWee: Major A March 4 vs Caledon Home: 8 Visitor: 3

Goals: Brett Allen (4), Keaton McLaughlin, Cameron Martin, Jesse Martin, Jarrett Anderson Assists: Trevor Ferretti (2), Jake Clemmer (2), Jarrett Anderson (2), Keaton McLaughlin, Cole Chipman March 5 vs Guelph Home: 6 Visitor: 1 Goals: Cameron Martin, Keaton McLaughlin, Cole Chipman, Matt Fleischmann, Nathan Taylor, Jarrett Anderson Assists: Jake Clemmer (2), Eric Martin, Nathan Taylor, Nathan Curtis, Trevor Ferretti March 10 vs Oakville Home: 0 Visitors: 2

PeeWee: LL #1 March 8 vs Ayr Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Ethan Martin, Matthew Yorke, Connor Kroetsch Assists: Braxten Breen, Matthew Yorke, Liam Moyer, Tyson Mifflin

Bantam: Minor AA March 5 vs Burlington Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Bart Sherrer, Nolan Hislop (2) Assists: Zac Pickard (2), Kyle Rintoul, Austin Cousineau, Kurtis Hoover

Midget: Minor A March 1 vs Oakville Home: 1 Visitor: 1 Feb. 25 vs Oakville Home: 1 Visitor: 4 Goals: Evan Gowling March 6 vs Oakville Home: 0 Visitor: 4 March 7 vs Oakville

Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Connor Martin Assists: Jonah Boehm, Cameron Brown

Midget: LL #1 Feb. 27 vs Beverly #2 Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Dylan Smith, Dylan Arndt, Isaac Fishbein Assists: Chris Taylor, Isaac Fishbein (2), Alex Bean, Jacob Cornwall, Trent Brunkard March 3 vs Embro Home: 5 Visitor: 3 Goals: Isaac Fishbein, Dylan Arndt (4) Assists: Isaac Fishbein (3), Dylan Smith, Jacob Cornwall, Austin Horst March 9 vs Paris Home: 4 Visitor: 0 Goals: Isaac Fishbein (2), Troy Nechanicky, Nick Berlet Assists: Isaac Fishbein, Dylan Smith, Dylan Arndt Shutout: Kyle Ropp

Midget: LL #3 March 5 vs Tavistock Home: 6 Visitor: 3 Goals: Liam Dickson, Jordan Luis, Luke Charter, Connor Runstedler (2), Luke DeCorte Assists: Nick Kieswetter, Joseph Hanley, Luke Charter, Connor Runstedler, Max Bender, Joe Butterworth March 9 vs Tavistock Home: 4 Visitor: 5 Goals: Joseph Hanley, Luke Charter, Blake Doerbecker, Joe Butterworth Assists: Nick Kieswetter, Liam Dickson, Joe Butterworth, Blake

Doerbecker, Mitch Rempel (2)

WOOLWICH WILD

Atom: B March 5 vs Waterloo Home: 1 Visitor: 0 Goals: Braelyn MacPherson Assists: Ayla Brubacher Shutout: Gwyneth Martin

Atom: C Feb. 28 vs Lucan Irish Home: 0 Visitor: 1 March 1 vs St. Thomas Home: 0 Visitor: 0 Shutout: Sydney Chapman March 7 vs Petrolia Home: 1 Visitor: 3 Goals: Taylor Schmitt Assists: Makenna Mclaughlin March 8 vs Petrolia Home: 3 Visitor: 2 Goals: Madi Martin, Alison Martin, Makenna Mclaughlin Assists: Kaitlyn Hyatt, Emma Wiseman, Taylor Schmitt

Bantam: LL March 7 vs Waterloo 4 Home: 2 Visitor: 0 Goals: Jade Lipczynski, Mary MacKenzie Assists: Jade Lipczynski, Mary MacKenzie Shutout: Jessica Huber March 1 vs Waterloo 4 Home: 2 Visitor: 2 Goals: Abby Hanley, Mary MacKenzie

TWIN CENTRE

PeeWee: C March 1 vs Wilmot Home: 2 Visitor: 3 Goals: Evaleena Adam, Valerie Wolf Assists: Kara Dietrich, Abby Wolf (2) March 4 vs Kitchener Home: 2 Visitor: 0 Goals: Lauren Skanes, Avery Bender Assists: Evaleena Adam Shutout: Kylee Zacharczuk March 7 vs Kitchener Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Blythe Bender Assists: Hannah Kieswetter

RINGETTE

Woolwich: U14 Feb. 28 vs Elora Home: 7 Visitor: 1 Goals: Grace Stevanus (3), Alice Wang (2), Abby Murr, Hilary Bauman Assists: Erica Buehler (2), Abby Murr, Alice Wang, Ashley Brubacher

KARATE

White Heron Martial Arts Feb. 27 The following students have advanced to the next rank: Matthew Radler has earned his Green Belt, Annaliese Bromberg has earned her Stripe Belt, and Brielle McCluskey has earned her Yellow Belt.

12 | VENTURE

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

Venture Food for thought/ Owen Roberts

going local / some friendly competition

There’s a battle brewing

St. Jacobs’ Block Three set to take on other local breweries in a taste-off, riding the craft beer wave

Million-acre pollinator miracle: it’s a whopper FIELD NOTES

Block Three Brewing Company’s master brewer Bryan Maher is looking forward to a friendly competition amongst Waterloo Region breweries this spring.

Scott Barber As the popularity of eating and buying local has grown in recent years, so too has the appreciation for craft beer. The shift away from the bland uniformity of the

global beer conglomerates – while still a dominant player, no doubt – is starting to take root here in the Waterloo Region, evidenced by the rise in the number of local pints on offer at restaurants and pubs. This spring, the finest

microbrewers around will gather for a celebration of local suds, and for a little healthy competition to determine who has the tastiest beer in town. St. Jacobsbased Block Three Brewing will be taking on Waterloo’s Abe Erb Brewing and In-

Waterloo Region breweries, come together for a friendly competition,” Bryan Maher of Block Three Brewing explained. “So we all sat down and picked a style, which is an American

I’ve been accused of overusing the word whopping, so now I watch it closely when the temptation hits. But today, I can’t help it. It’s the right word for the right job. How else can anyone describe one of the most exciting new developments in Ontario agriculture – that is, Ontario’s grain farmers’ announcement that they want to see a whopping one million acres of self-sustaining pollinator habitat identified and preserved by 2018. A million acres – that’s almost unfathomable. Look it up … it’s the equivalent of nearly one million football fields. Huge farms on the prairies whose boundaries disappear on the horizon are a fraction of one million

Battle | 13

Roberts | 13

[Scott Barber / The OBserver]

nocente Brewing Company – and perhaps a few others – in a bit of a taste-off. “The whole premise is to have (Block Three Brewing), Abe Erb Brewing, Innocente Brewing Company and we are inviting a couple other as well, all

JOIN THE FIGHT

VOLUNTEER

THIS APRIL April is Daffodil Month Give a few hours of your time to make a big difference!

Daffodil pin sales will take place in Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo and Elmira on April 9-12, 2015! Sign-up to volunteer: www.waterlooregiondaffodils.myccsschedule.ca Or volunteer for our Residential Canvass Campaign For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Nicole at 519-886-8888 x3144 or namorim@ontario.cancer.ca

VENTURE | 13

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

ROBERTS: It will take more than concerned farmers to provide that much more bee habitat from | 12

acres. Huge Ontario farms are smaller yet. So, yes, this is a lot of land. And its whereabouts are not really known. The grain farmers themselves say there isn’t a clear assessment of how much land is currently available to pollinators, let alone clear evidence of how much is actually needed, and where. But there is general agreement among many farmers – particularly given Ontario is said to be losing 350 acres of farmland every day to development – that they are losing too much control over their

own operations, and fate. They believe the province wants more say in how they farm, what technology they use to get the job done, and how their activities impact urban Ontario. Farmers say the pendulum has swung too far. They want to bring it back to the middle, where agriculture is recognized as a true partnership between farmers and society. Everyone has to give. And that’s what this dramatic million-acre proclamation is all about. It’s the centerpiece and the most ambitious suggestion in something called the 10-page Ontario Pollinator Health Blueprint, drawn up

by an eight-member task force of grain farmers, seed dealers and beekeepers, with input from more than 900 farmers. In this blueprint, the grain farmers say a million acres of repurposed farmland, as well as private land and public land for pollinator-friendly habitat, would mean continuous blooms throughout the growing season could be available to bees and other pollinators. “We see a lot of opportunity for good bee habitat in areas like fence rows, road sides, and municipal lands,” says Grain Farmers of Ontario chair Mark

Brock. He foresees a registry being created in which acreage and habitat could be recorded and monitored. The registry would provide a mechanism for everyone to know what pollinator-friendly lands and programs already exist. As well, it would offer up a way to track new habitat and programs. Brock’s citing of public lands is noteworthy. This million-acre exercise isn’t totally falling on the shoulders of farmers, and shouldn’t. Farmers are leading it, but he says all parties must cooperate and be committed to meet and maintain the one-million-

acre target. “Farmers cannot do this alone,” he says. “It’s a large number of acres, but if all members of our communities support the end goal, we believe it can be achieved and bees will be able to find habitat in many different locations.” And although most of the focus of bee health over the past while has been pesticide related, the blueprint actually sports five pillars designed to enhance pollinator health. One pillar is indeed pesticide exposure, which farmers admit play some role in bee health. But so are the others: habitat and

nutrition, diseases and parasites, communications between beekeepers and farmers, and verification, measurement and collection standards for insects. A final pillar will help determine farm pest thresholds and provide a benchmark for determining the health and disease status of Ontario pollinators. Monitoring, research, benchmarks, registries – they’re all part of what’s needed to help sort out fact from fiction, and reduce the hyperbole over pollinators. It’s a whopping, complicated huge issue, and farmers are facing it head on.

Battle: Block Three Brewing looks to extend its market reach with access to LCBO shelves from | 12

brown ale, we picked the guidelines, which are the (Beer Judge Certification Program) guidelines that are not so much as a bar but a set of criteria for the beers to be judged by. That includes things like alcohol content, how sweet it is, the colour, the bitterness, what ingredients were used, and what characteristics the beers have. We also picked the ingredients that will

be used including the base malts. So we have to use five malts at any varying percentages in the brew.” The battle of the brewers event will take place sometime in May at the Abe Erb Brew Pub in Waterloo. Some 160 tickets will be up for grabs, granting beer fans the ability to help choose Waterloo Region’s best brewer. “The beers will be judged double-blind,” Maher said.

“The server and the judge won’t know which beer is which, only the bartender will know. So the beers will be numbered and the customer will get a ballot. They’ll pick the one they like the most and the winner will be decided based on the votes.” The idea is to keep all of the competing beers within the same general profile and style, Maher said. But since each brewer gets to

decide which types of hops and yeast to use, there will certainly be some variance in the finished products. “We’re really looking forward to it,” Maher said. “It’ll be a fun way to celebrate local beer.” Launched in the fall of 2013, Block Three Brewing Company produces some 2,800 gallons of beer each week, in a variety of styles and flavours. With a downtown St. Ja-

cobs location on the north end of King Street, the microbrewery has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Already available at three dozen restaurants and bars in the region and as far afield as Toronto, London and Hamilton, Block Three Brewing’s reach could extend even further in the coming months, as the company is nearing approval by the LCBO to get

some of its coveted shelf space. But it’s the local market that is really important for Maher, a native of Elmira. “It’s been pretty incredible so far,” Maher said. “The foot traffic is amazing in the summer and fall and spring. In the winter it slows down a bit, but the biggest and best feeling really is how many locals have adapted to us and taken us in.”

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14 | THE ARTS

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

THE ARTS on stage / live music

A musical celebration of Easter In the vein of his yuletide concert, Kevin Pauls and Friends take on the upcoming season at the Centre In The Square Whitney Neilson It’ll be an Easter you won’t soon forget. Local talent Kevin Pauls has once again joined forces with a range of veteran vocalists to present An Easter Celebration with Kevin Pauls and Friends. Well known for his annual Christmas event, this time around Pauls has brought together gospel and inspirational artists, along with the KitchenerWaterloo Symphony for an evening of talented collaboration. Shane Wiebe, of the husband and wife duo The Wiebes, says it will be much more than just a concert. “Every now and then somebody comes up with an idea that sounds incredible,” Wiebe said. “And Kevin Pauls is a true dreamer. He’s come up with this idea of having some of the best around get together and make absolutely incredible music, particularly in light

of it being Easter. And this being such a pinnacle for so many, both from a religious perspective and from a celebration perspective. And Kevin Pauls has actually done it. He’s gone out, hit the road and made this happen.” Other singers joining Pauls and the Wiebes are Christian songwriters Jody McBrayer and Greg Sykes. McBrayer was a member of pop Christian group Avalon for 12 years before leaving in 2007. Since then, he released a solo album in 2002 titled This Is Who I Am. Sykes serves as a pastor and is a recording artist through Integrity Music, which has seen him sing alongside Paul Baloche. “All of that with Kevin Pauls and the KW symphony,” Wiebe said. “Alone you’d pay $20 or $30 per ticket just to see one of these people and now you’re getting to see all of them together.” Wiebe said they all have their music for the event

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and are just starting to put it together. They’ll be singing together, as well as separately, and he says it will be a “synergistic event.” He’s looking forward to rehearsing as a group and seeing it come to fruition. “It’s incredibly passionate music,” Wiebe said. “It is musically challenging, particularly the tenor music that we’re going to be tackling. This stuff is in the rafters. It’s very challenging music for a very passionate event, but I think you have to take those types of musical challenges to create something magical.” The event is for all ages, which Wiebe acknowledges is a difficult feat. When it comes to Pauls, Wiebe says he’s often heard him described as “Groban meets Gaither.” “So he’s got the pop class sound of a Josh Groban, Michael English sort of thing, but he’s also got that gospel root to the way he sings,” Wiebe said.

Clockwise, Kevin Pauls, The Wiebes and Greg Sykes will join Jody McBrayer and the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony at Centre In The Square on Apr. 6 for an Easter celebration.

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Pauls has been nominated eight times for male vocalist of the year by GMA Canada, and received the 2005 recording of the year award at the Hamilton Music Scene Awards, among others. As for The Wiebes, their first album, Into Your Light, won Inspirational Album of the Year at the 2010 Covenant Awards, and they received their second Covenant Award in 2012 for The Hymns Collection. You may also recognize Wiebe from Canadian Idol, where he made it into the top five in 2004 and got to learn from music greats, Lionel Richie and Gordon Lightfoot. “I can’t stress enough that it’s going to be one of those events that you walk away from going ‘I need to do that again next year,’” Wiebe said. The events starts at 7 p.m. on April 6 at Centre in the Square. Tickets are $55 until March 29, and $60 after that. They can be purchased online at www. centreinthesquare.com.

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CLASSIFIED | 15

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED

classified deadline:

thursdays by 10am

HELP WANTED

MILLWRIGHTS NEEDED Listowel area Millwright Company is looking to hire experienced and detail oriented individuals to join our road crew for the following positions: • Licensed Millwrights – Construction &/or Industrial • Millwright Apprentices Applicants must be able to work independently as well as part of a team. Previous welding experience is required. Experience interpreting blueprint, schematics and drawings is considered an asset. Company Benefit and Group RRSP package offered. Please forward resume to: info@dynamicmillwrights.com

HELP WANTED

Choose more than a job, choose a CAREER! Orr Insurance & Investment is currently recruiting highly motivated individuals for the following positions:

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE With 7 locations throughout Southwestern Ontario, Orr Insurance & Investment is a progressive and growing brokerage. We are currently seeking highly motivated individuals with proven sales / customer service experience to sell Commercial and Personal Lines insurance products and service new and existing clients. The right candidates will be goal oriented individuals with proven personal and professional success, a natural drive to succeed and an entrepreneurial attitude. They will possess solid written and verbal communication skills as well as strong interpersonal skills. A tradition of excellence. Orr is a leading insurance broker offering a rewarding career with room for growth. Our goal is to help you reach yours by encouraging teamwork, creativity and continuous learning. We offer competitive wages, tuition / course / certification coverage, a comprehensive benefits package, and an exciting, dynamic work environment. Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter

Attn: Human Resources to: Orr Insurance Brokers Inc. 50 Cobourg Street Stratford ON N5A 3E5

Fax: 519-271-7626 Email: hr@orrinsurance.net Orr Insurance is an equal opportunity employer. We appreciate all applications however only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 5442 Perth Line 88, Gowanstown, ON N0G 1Y0

MILL OPERATOR

PFI farms require a self-motivated individual for a full-time position making livestock feed. This position includes mixing and pelleting of feed with accurate record keeping. Some experience would be an asset but we are willing to train. Must be flexible for shiftwork, with some overtime and weekends if required. Competitive wages and benefits are provided.

Forward resumé to: Attention: Godfrey Steinke PFI Farms 1580 Listowel Road Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z3 Email: godfreys@pfi-farms.com Fax: 519-669-4363

HELP WANTED

Our St. Jacobs Retail Store currently has the following opportunity...

Retail Sales Associate (Part-time & On-Call) Approximately 24 hours per week Responsible to the Retail Store Manager for providing courteous and efficient service to our customers and staff, you will provide advice on appropriate merchandise and related items. You will handle cash, credit card, and debit card payments by using PRISM and Royal Bank Debit card machines, ticket and replenish merchandise, and general housekeeping of shelves and merchandise on display. Heavy lifting and unloading truck shipments will be required.

LOOKING FOR LABOURER with a strong work ethic for full-time seasonal employment to join a concrete crew placing and finishing concrete flatwork (mostly residential driveways, sidewalks, patios, and steps etc.) Must be able to work in a team environment. No concrete experience required. Competitive wages based in productivity. Please forward resumes to willis@marwilconcrete.ca or Call 519-577-0370 (Drayton, ON)

HOW TO REACH US

We offer a competitive salary and great working conditions. If you are interested in becoming part of Home Hardware, please forward your resume, quoting the Retail Sales Associate (#837), by Monday, March 23rd, 2015 to: Human Resources Department, Home Hardware Stores Limited, 34 Henry St. W., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0 E-mail: hr@homehardware.ca Fax: 519-664-4711 (Microsoft Products Only)

hr@homehardware.ca

You have a high school diploma or equivalent, a friendly and helpful attitude toward customers and good communication skills. Knowledge of hardware and home repairs is an asset.

Help Wanted

FOR OPTIMUM ADVERTISING RESULTS…THE OBSERVER. Place an ad in our classified section today!

Child Care

Full Time. Wallenstein and St. Jacobs locations. Require drivers licence and transportation. Duties include handling day old poultry and clean up. Must be able to start at 5 a.m. some days (seasonal). Email staff@freyshatchery.com or fax 519-664-3491.

March Break Art Camp - Registering school aged children and includes fun art projects such as clay sculptures, painting, jewelry making, and puppet theatre. Also includes daily outdoor playtime and group games. Call 226-750-6265 or see conestogonurseryschool.com

Part Time. Monday and Thursday Mornings 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. Duties involve handling dayold poultry. Good wage for responsible and qualified person. Email staff@freyshatchery.com or fax 519-664-3491.

Child Care Required

Call: 519-669-5790 or Visit: www.observerxtra.com

Dry, First cut hay for sale. 4X4 round bales. Call 519404-4964.

Wanted

The Township of Wellesley is accepting resumes for two new positions: • Administrative Assistant for a 1 year contract and a • Facilities Maintenance Coordinator Permanent Full Time For more information please visit: www.wellesley.ca Employment Please apply with a detailed resume by 4:30pm on March 24, 2015 to: Grace Kosch, Clerk, Township of Wellesley RR#1, 4639 Lobsinger Line, St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 Email: gkosch@wellesley.ca

BRIDGELAND TERMINALS LIMITED

Hay & Straw

Puppies for sale. Blue Heeler cross. $30 each. 519669-3503.

THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY

HELP WANTED

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!

Pets

HELP WANTED

Bridgeland Terminals Ltd is currently accepting applications for a 310T mechanic. Full time day position. Good wage and benefit package. Consideration may be given to individuals nearing completion of an apprentice program. Send resume to; nicoleb@bridgelandterminals.com or drop off at; 35 Oriole Pkwy E. | Elmira, ON N3B 2Z7 Phone 519-669-1588 | Fax 519-669-1928

Health Care

Baby sitter needed part time after school. Two children 6-9. Pick up at Riverside for two weeks 3:30 - 5 p.m. Other two weeks 20 minutes required at our place 4:40 - 5 p.m. Please contact Kate 519-210-0231.

Wanted to Rent Vehicle bay for small buses to do interior vehicle cleaning in Elmira or close proximity. Any size over 1000 sq feet would be considered. Must have minimum 12’ overhead door. Must have water supply. Contact Cheryl at 519-998-2290.

Rentals Available April 1, Elmira 2 bed basement apt in quiet duplex, no smoking/ pets, includes sep laundry, utilities, $850. Call or text 519-574-6105. Elmira - 2 bedroom townhouse. Please, no smoking, no pets. $925 plus utilities. Suitable for quiet tenants. Call 519-580-6683. One Parking space included. Enjoy Lake Huron with your family this summer at our water-view cottage on 5 acres of trees. Now booking for the summer. Just before Pike Bay, 25 min north of Sauble Beach. Details at www.rentmycottage.snappages.com

Classified LISTINGs CONTINUED ON PG. 16

Phone 519.669.5790 | toll free 1.888.966.5942 | fax 519.669.5753 | online www.observerxtra.com

ADDRESS 20-b ARTHUR ST. N., ELMIRA, ON n3b 1Z9

CLASSIFIED ADS

Display ads

519.669.5790 EXT 0

519.669.5790 EXT 104

ads@woolwichobserver.com

sales@woolwichobserver.com

Residential cost $7.50 /20 WORDS EXTRA WORDS 20¢ PER WORD

COMMERCIAL COST $12.00 /20 WORDS EXTRA WORDS 30¢ PER WORD

Placing a classified WORD ad In person, email, phone or fax submissions are accepted during regular business hours. Deadline for Saturday publication is Wednesday by 5 p.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.

16 | CLASSIFIED

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

Family Album happy birthday

happy birthday

in memoriam

Happy 65th Donna Rhodes

Anne Kristine Jones

obituary

Passed away one year ago March 10, 2014

Wideman, Connie (nee Soehner)

Wilma Myers

One year has passed since that sad day. When one we loved was called away; God took her home, it was His will, But in our hearts she liveth still.

in celebrating her 90 Birthday at an Open House th

Sunday March 22, 2015 1-4pm at the Assisted Living Centre 118 Barnswallow Drive, Elmira ON

Love Terry, Jenn, Tim, Alex & Ben

Public Notice

Always loved and missed by loving husband Tom and families

death notices

2015 Water Efficient Gardening Seminars FREE! Register now. First come, first served. Space is limited. Sunday, March 22, 1 p.m., Cambridge Centre for the Arts, Toyota Room Gardening from a Hammock talks about the gardens of 17 well-known gardening experts. The presentation will focus on the easy-care plant suggestions and plant combinations for low-maintenance gardening based on advice from these experts. Speaker: Dan Cooper

Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m., RIM Park, Waterloo, Room 207/208 Hot Gardening Trends – “Frankie Flowers” is arguably Canada’s most popular and trusted gardening authority and weatherman. He is known for his ability to combine practical advice with humour, and loves to share his passion for everything gardening in the world. Frank will discuss the latest trends in gardening. Speaker: Frank Ferragine

Wednesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m., 99 Regina St., Waterloo, Room 508 Fun with Foliage. Tired of deadheading and timing your blooms for all-season colour? Learn what plant varieties add colour to your garden, spring through fall, with only their leaves! With these varieties, you can put away the garden shears and enjoy your hassle free, colourful garden, all season long. Speaker: Aileen Barclay

Saturday, April 11, 10 a.m., Meadow Acres Garden Centre, Petersburg Shade Gardening: There are so many beautiful options to grow in the shade. Ken will show us how to make any dark corner into the highlight of your garden. Speaker: Ken Brown

Sunday, April 19, 1 p.m., Stanley Park Community Centre, Kitchener Plant It, They Will Come: Create a Wildlife Habitat in Your Backyard. Join garden columnist and photographer Theresa Forte for a lively and entertaining look at building your own wildlife habitat in your backyard. Speaker: Theresa Forte

Saturday, April 25, 10 a.m. St. Jacobs Country Gardens Tips and Tricks for a Water Wise Garden - Join David on a light-hearted and informative journey to the heart of water wise gardens. See magic and mystery while exploring the essential qualities discovered therein – inspiration, creativity, patience . . . and humour. Speaker: David Hobson

CRESSMAN, David | On Saturday, March 7, 2015 at his residence at Nithview Community, New Hamburg, David quietly and gently left us and this world to be reunited with his beloved wife Alice, in his 99th year. LEASK, Kenneth John | Passed away suddenly on Tuesday, March 10, 2015 at Grand River Hospital, at the age of 65. Local relatives are his daughter Dawn-Marie Adams (Paul) of Maryhill.

LETSON, Jean Elizabeth | Passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2015 at St. Mary’s Hospital. Jean (Ober) Letson, at the age of 79 years, of Elmira, formerly of West Montrose. WEBER, Ruby Aileen | May 15, 1923 - March 8, 2015 Peacefully went to be with her Lord, at Caressant Care Nursing Home, Listowel, in her 92nd year. Local relatives are her children David (Wendy) of Milverton, Glen (Bonnie) of Elmira and John (Ellen) of Drayton.

Coming Events

NEWS

SOURCE IN THE REGION CONTINUED FROM PG. 15

auction

Yatton Public School Reunion at Yatton School. Monday, April 6, 2015, 2:00 - 4:30 p.m. Suggested donation $2.00 per person. Reminisce and renew acquaintances with former classmates. Bring a sample of memorabilia if desired. Light refreshments will be provided. Any questions? Contact Janice 519-6698008 or Arlene 519-576-8515.

Coming Events COME MEET THE EASTER BUNNY at the SPRING CRAFT AND GIFT SHOW. Lions Hall- 40 South Street West Elmira, March 22nd 11-3pm. Easter Bunny will be onsite from 11:30-1:30pm. Dont forget your camera! Over 40 talented vendors with all your gift giving needs. Door prizes, free adm.

CONSTRUCTION | SHOP & WOODWORKING

Auction

upper Grand School Board & others to be held at

Breslau Airport Road Auction Complex

5100 Fountain St., North, Breslau (Kitchener)

Sat Mar 21st 9:00 a.m. Construction/Shop Equip => Generators*Mig Welder CNC Bench Milling Machine *Pottery Kiln*Chainsaws*Tools 5hp Port/Shop air Compressors*Torches*Bench Grinders etc Skids of New “Vintage-Style” Street Lights & Poles Woodworking Equip => 24” Thickness Planer 6’ Stroke Sander * Carvewright CNC Woodcarver 3-Belt Sanders*Wood Bandsaw*3-Scroll Saws 70+ New 12”/14” Carbide & Diamond Blade *R/a Saw 20+ new Exterior Doors*New Windows*Drill Press 65+ Exec office Side & Swivel Chairs*aV Cart ALTO SHAM*Cooler*autoclave*Piano

Place an ad in our classified section today! Call: 519-669-5790 or Visit: www.observerxtra.com

MoRE Equipment Arriving Daily!!! PARTIAL LIST ONLY!!! No Buyer’s Premium or Penalty! VIEWING: Friday March 20th, 2015, 1 pm to 5 pm TERMS: Minimum $500 Cash Deposit Major Units, Balance in 48 Hours or as announced.

Please call 519-575-4400 x3151 to register or email: watercycle@regionofwaterloo.ca visit www.regionofwaterloo.ca/water

www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com

we SPECIALIZE IN GETTING THE WORD OUT!

Please come and join

Passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2015 at Grand River Hospital at the age of 82 years, of Kitchener, formerly of Elmira. Dear mother of Joel (Darlene), Deric (Fiona), Mary-Esther Chowan (Don), Tina Hanley (Mike), and motherin-law of Val Wideman. Also lovingly remembered by her ten grandchildren Benjamin, Samantha; Jennifer, Heather and Nathan; Stefanie and Ashley; Kyle, Matthew and Jeremy; and by her two great-grandchildren Evva and Cadence. Sister of Joyce Strebel, Janice and Merle Manto. Predeceased by her son Andrew (2007), her parents Henry and Bertha (Hoelscher) Soehner, brothers Wallace, Harry and Lorne (in infancy) and sister Pauline Walser. At Connie’s request cremation has taken place. There will be no funeral home visitation or funeral service. A family graveside service will be held in the spring. A special thank you to Bette Schmidt and Joyce Caudle for their support and friendship and for taking such good care of our mom, and to the 8th floor medical team at Grand River Hospital for their patience and understanding. In Connie’s memory, donations to Woolwich Community Services Food Bank or Grand River Hospital Foundation would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy and may be arranged by calling the Dreisinger Funeral Home, Elmira at 519-669-2207.

M.R. Jutzi & Co

PRoFESSIoNalS IN THE oRDERly lIqUIDaTIoN aND aPPRaISalS oF CoMMERCIal, INDUSTRIal, CoNSTRUCTIoN, MUNICIPal EqUIPMENT & VEHIClES 5100 FoUNTaIN ST. NoRTH, BRESlaU, oNTaRIo, N0B 1M0

www.mrjutzi.ca

519-648-2111

SAVE THE DATE: The Community Big Garage Sale will be on: Saturday, May 16, 2015 Read the Observer for more details starting in April. www.OBSERVERXTRA.com

CLASSIFIED | 17

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES

TIRE

THOMPSON’S

Complete Collision Service

WHERE TIRES

general SERVICES

AUTO CLINIC

Auto Tech Inc.

ARE A

SPECIALTY, NOT A SIDE LINE.

Providing the latest technology to repair your vehicle with accuracy and confidence.

101 Bonnie Crescent, Elmira, ON N3B 3G2

519.669.8330

Farm • Auto • Truck Industrial On-The-Farm Service

FAX: 519.669.3210

35 Howard Ave., Elmira

AFTER HOURS

SHELLY & SCOTT TAYLOR 28 Pintail Drive, Elmira, ON, N3B 3G9

519-669-0003

taylortax@rogers.com

Accredited Test & Repair Facility

519-669-4400

519-669-7652

30 ORIOLE PKWY. E., ELMIRA www.thompsonsauto.ca

519.669.8917

519-669-3232

21 Industrial Dr. Elmira

...& SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING

gENERAL SERVICES

MUSIC-LOVER GIFT ALERT!

Various sizes & rates

’s 60’s / 70

HIGH SCHOOSL BAND

GOSPEL

ROCK

MUSIC TRANSFERS FROM LPs, 45s, 78s, CASSETTES TO CD

CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call

COUNTR Y

•Ratches, Hooks, Straps, Webbing etc. •Canvas, Vinyl, Polyester, Acrylic Fabrics

Your favourite albums get a whole new life on CD after we clean up the clicks, pops and surface noise.

519-669-4964

 WOOD  GAS  PELLET

CONESTOGO

519.595.4830

MORE INFO | 519.669.0541

100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA

General Repairs 180 St. Andrew St. W.

519-664-3800

6376 Perth Rd. 121 Poole, ON

EMAIL: vinylp2cd@gmail.com

FERGUS

1871 Sawmill Road

519-843-4845

877-664-3802

888-871-4592

www.fergusfireplace.com

general SERVICES “25 years in Business”

While you wait! Sharpening M

$275.00/

$4.99 per pair

pump

OUT

+H.S.T.

(1800 Gallon Residential)

5th pair FREE.

Not valid with any other special offers or coupons.

519-648-3004

22 Church St. W., Elmira

Tel: 519-669-5537

800-232-6396

www.biobobs.com

STORE HOURS: M-F: 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5

general SERVICES BAUMAN PIANO

SERVICES TUNING & REPAIRS

WE FIX SLIPPERY WHEN WET

Propellant 49 The best ice and snow melter on the Planet. Safe for trees and plants, will not rust, corrode or stain. No residue. Continues past -50°C and keeps melting 36 hours after being applied.

Craftsman Member O.G.P.T. Inc NEW PHONE NUMBER

519-880-9165

(519) 569-0772 • Commercial & Industrial General Contracting • Specializing in Concrete Work & Excavation • Retaining Walls

info@trappconstruction.ca www.trappconstruction.ca

• • • •

Stamped Coloured Concrete Demolition Bin Service Machine Bases

Concrete Breaking & Removal

QUICK LOCAL SERVICE | 245 Labrador Dr., Waterloo

www.UniTwin.com | 519.886.2102

HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES

BATHTUBS, CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN TILE BRICK, TERRAZZO AND OTHER SURFACES GUARANTEED, INVISIBLE, AND COST EFFECTIVE

JAMES BAUMAN

CONSTRUCTION INC.

For more info email noslipperyfloors@gmail.com or call 519-588-7413 | theredwolfcompany.com

WEICKERT& MEIROWSKI Concrete Foundations Limited

YES... WE DO RESIDENTIAL WORK!

6982 Millbank Main St., Millbank 519-595-2053 • 519-664-2914

space for rent

State of the acAhinrte

RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING EFFORT!

Ltd.

RESIDENTIAL & AGRICULTURAL

Driveways • Sidewalks • Curbs • Barn Renovations Finished Floors • Retaining Walls • Short Walls Decorative/Stamped and coloured concrete www.marwilconcrete.ca

519-577-0370

The Right Window Treatment Can

Save you

Blinds by Elite or Mera

In home consultations Wide selection of styles & fabrics 1011 Industrial Crescent St. Clements | 519-699-5411 www.LetUsFloorYou.ca

FREE

INSTALLATION When you buy 3 or more

Hours: M-F 8:30 - 5:30 Sat 9:00 - 3:00

Evenings By Appointment

space for rent

HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES

Wet Basement? Foundation Leaks Fixed Permanently Free Estimate Flexible Resin Injection • Professional Service • •

- Design and build -

AGRICULTURAL | RESIDENTIAL FRAMING • ROOFING RENOVATIONS • EAVESTROUGHS

519-504-2016

darwayconstruction@icloud.com | Alma, ON

Interior and Exterior Drainage Systems • Sump Pump Installation •

We Build our Reputation on your Foundation (519) 746 6611 1 866 449 2228 visit us at: thecrackspecialists.com

18 | CLASSIFIED

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY Home improvement SERVICES COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

ST. JACOBS

GLASS SYSTEMS INC.

APPLIANCES – FURNACES – FIREPLACES AIR CONDITIONERS – WATER HEATERS SPRING SPECIAL ON AIR CONDITIONING TUNE UP $99, INSTALLED FROM $1999 FURNACES INSTALLED FROM $2499 FRIDGES $499, STOVES $399, WASHERS $399, DRYERS $369, FREEZERS $199 Come visit our show room FREE QUOTES

1553 King St. N., St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0

• Store Fronts • Thermopanes • Mirrors • Screen Repair • Replacement Windows • Shower Enclosures • Sash Repair

1 Union Street, Elmira

TEL:

ehc@hotmail.ca (519)-669-4600

519-664-1202 / 519-778-6104 FAX: 519 664-2759 • 24 Hour Emergency Service

Steve Co.

Plumbing and Maintenance Inc.

John Schaefer Painting FREE ESTIMATES Interior/exterior Painting, Wallpapering & Plaster | drywall Repairs

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

For all your Plumbing Needs. 24 HOUR SERVICE Steve Jacobi

ELMIRA

519-669-3652

NOW ACCEPTING VISA OR MASTERCARD

AMOS R O O F I N G

INC

IRA HOME COMFORT M L E (519) 669-4600

• Specializing in residential re-roofs • Repairs • Churches A Family owned and operated business serving KW, Elmira and surrounding area for over 35 years.

WORKMANSHIP GUARANTEED

CALL JAYME FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE.

519-669-2251

519.501.2405 | 519.698.2114

36 Hampton St., Elmira

In Business since 1973 • Fully Insured

Home improvement SERVICES

Sew Special

100% SUPERIOR QUALITY CUSTOM WOODWORKING

KENJI ORITA • Custom Kitchens • Custom Furniture • Domestic & Exotic Woods

226-868-8131 oritakenji@gmail.com 20B ARTHUR ST. N., ELMIRA

• Residential • Commercial • Industrial

Randy Weber ECRA/ESA Licence # 7000605

519.669.1462 Fax: 519.669.9970 Tel:

18 Kingﬁsher Dr., Elmira

WINDOW FASHIONS

Custom Window Coverings

Free in-home Consultations. Call someone you can trust. Call Cindy.

Latest Styles of Window Blinds and Custom Drapery At competitive pricing

A Brand You Can Trust

Lois Weber 519-669-3985

22 Church St. W., Elmira

Tel: 519-669-5537

Elmira

STORE HOURS: M-F: 8-8, SAT 8-6, SUN 12-5

Serving the community for 25 years

Outdoor services

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

YOUR SOURCE FOR YEAR-ROUND PROPERTY MAINTENANCE • Lawn Mowing Packages • Lawn Maintenance & Landscaping • Top Dressing/Overseeding • Mulch Delivery & Installation • Commercial & Residential Full Flower Bed Maintenance • Snow Plowing & Ice Control • Tractor Snowblowing

Call Jeff Basler, Owner/Operator, today 519.669.9081 mobile: 519.505.0985 | fax: 519.669.9819 | ever-green@sympatico.ca

Outdoor

Services

> Commercial & Residential > Fully Insured > WSIB Clearance > Senior Discount

kdetweiler@rogers.com

KEVIN DETWEILER

OWNER-OPERATOR

PRINTING | MAILING | SIGNAGE SERVICES

INTRODUCING OUR PIC BUCKET For digging through frozen ground!

• • • •

Trenching Excavating Back fill compaction plate Laneway sanding available

Murray & Daniel Shantz

ALMA, ONTARIO | PHONE: 519.846.5427

CLASSIFIED | 19

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Donâ€™t Wait, Now is the Time to List! A DONATION will be made with every home bought or sold by Alli, Paul or Sue.

THIS WEEKS OPEN HOUSE Sat. Mar. 14th, 2-4pm 23 OAKCLIFFE STREET, ELMIRA

Alli Bauman Paul Martin Sue Wideman SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT

SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT

519-577-6248

SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT

519-503-9533

allibauman@rogers.com

226-750-9332

paul@remaxsolidgold.biz

suewidemanhomes@gmail.com

$569,000 SPACE FOR GROWING FAMILY

Elmira - Make yourself at home in this 2 + 1 bedroom bungalow. The master bedroom boasts 2 closets in the dressing area into the ensuite bath. With wet bar, games area, and a projector included, this rec room was made for entertaining or simply relaxing. MLS 1514312.

Elmira - This 3 bedroom bungalow is situated on a quiet street close to the park and public school. Cozy up to the wood burning fireplace in the rec room or BBQ with friends on the patio in the large back yard. This home includes an updated kitchen, central air, central vac, fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave, washer and dryer. Ready for you to move in and relax. MLS 1444078.

Elmira - Charming Victorian style older home. Large fenced treed lot in central location. Natural original wood trim throughout. Pine & Oak floors. Maple floor in country kitchen. Finished attic with skylights for natural light. You won't want to miss this! MLS 1514389.

Call today and book a

Independently Owned and Operated

Drayton - Located on 6 acres this extraordinary home is nestled in picturesque scenery. Featuring: Private lane, 1500 sqft, (30ft x 50ft) workshop with 60amp service, and 1600sqft home. Finished top to bottom with an open layout this rare find is extremely well kept. MLS 1442024.

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Exceptional Custom Built 5 bedroom home boasts a 1500 square foot triple car garage with a drive through to the back yard. Situated on a 133 x 165 foot lot with a beautiful country view, enjoy relaxing on your back deck around the pool. MLS 151724.

$549,000 STORE FRONT IN ELMIRA

Elmira - With a 2000 sq foot office space, a 1 bedroom unit, and 2 bedroom unit, this downtown property could be your ideal investment! MLS 1442236.

TEAM

CROSSWORD PUZZLER

* 5 2 8 1 ' 3 + ( / 8 . $ * ( 1 2 & 8 / $ 5

5 2 / / 2 1

$775,000 SLOW DOWN & ENJOY THE VIEW

FREE HOME EVALUATION

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ( ) ) $ & (

Elmira - This 2 + 1 bedroom bungalow has a double car garage with ample parking in the double wide driveway, with entrance into the house from the garage. This eat in kitchen has a walk out to the beautiful back yard boasting an in-ground pool with new liner, pump, filter, and blanket. Have formal dinners in the separate dining room, and enjoy the ease of main floor laundry as well as a main floor master bedroom with a walk in closet, and ensuite bathroom. This home is a must see. Call for a viewing today! MLS 1512120.

$649,000 PRIVATE HAVEN!

Elmira - Live in this updated 3 bedroom home with an ensuite bathroom, main floor laundry, and attached garage with a low mortgage payment offset by the income of the other 2 units. With separate meters for the utilities and all appliances included, this well maintained property is ready for you and the renters that you choose to move in! MLS 1441079 & 1441072.

3 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519-669-5426

$459,000 QUIET CRESCENT

6 FINCH PLACE, ELMIRA

$309,900 BUNGALOW, GREAT YARD

$269,900 CENTURY HOME CHARM

$474,500 LIVE IN 1 AND RENT OUT 2!

Hawkesville - Small town living in beautiful Hawkesville, min. from KW. This home has an updated hickory custom kitchen, w/o from the dinette & living room to Trex board deck. Enter into the mud rm/laundry rm from the garage or back deck. The basement has a recreation area with a wood stove and a w/o to the interlocking patio. Workshop in basement with double doors to the patio, giving easy access to store your lawn equipment directly from the back yard. MLS 1517094.

Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage

$475,000 OPEN CONCEPT BUNGALOW

THIS WEEKS OPEN HOUSE Sat. Mar. 14th, 2-4pm

TWIN CITY REALTY INC. BROKERAGE

buying? Selling? or just looking?

519-579-4110 OFFICE

sold@clickthathouse.com

Warren McNeil - Sales Rep. | Melanie McNeil - Sales Rep.

OPEN HOUSE | Saturday 2-4pm | 31 Oakcliffe Street Elmira

the observer has the freshest local listings in the market.

Building in Drayton where homes are affordable

CUSTOM QUALITY Single Family

Visit our Model Home at:

Starting from

$350,900

42 Bedell Drive, Drayton Mon & Tues. 1-7pm | Sat. & Sun. 1-4:30pm | or by appointment

226-818-5311 | verdonehomes.com

50 4,

NEW LISTING Better than new! Immaculate, 3 b/r, 3 bath, Elmira Home. Open concept layout, great room w/gas firplace, gleaming hardwood floors & vaulted ceiling. Spacious kitchen w/ceramic tile, black appliances (included), abundance of cabinets, blanco sink and dinette with walkout to incredible, new deck and fenced yard. Upstairs features new flooring, 3 good sized bedrooms, huge master suite w/ walk-in closet and updated ensuite with glass shower and corner tub. Shows A+++!

20 | CLASSIFIED

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS

Bert Martin Re/max Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., BROKER

Brokerage

Independently Owned and Operated

Shanna

Bonnie

Rozema

BROKER

Brubacher

Elmira Real Estate Services

BROKER OF RECORD

OFFICE: 519-669-5426

Bus: 519-669-3192 Fax: 519-669-3322

FREE Market Evaluation

OPEN HOUSE | 168 Ridgeview Dr., Drayton Saturday, Mar. 14th & Sunday, Mar. 15th, 1-3pm

NEW LISTING! AMAZING STARTER $269,900 ELMIRA Well

UPSCALE BUNGALOW TOWNHOMES Priced From $322,900 − This 2nd phase is well underway, 3 bungalows and 2 bungalow lofts available, beautifully appointed, double car garage, hardwood/ceramic, gas FP, main floor master & laundry. EXCLUSIVE

BONUS $10,000 in FREE UPGRADES!

maintained & updated two storey semi, backs onto Lions Park, Court location, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, neutrally decorated, newer flooring, walkout to deck, central air, appliances, finished rec. room. NEW MLS

until March 31st, 2015

BUNGALOW & LARGE SHOP $299,900 DRAYTON Great

$349,900

ELMIRA Lovely 1985 sq.ft. two storey situated across from a park, double driveway, single garage, cathedral ceiling open to the 2nd level, hardwood & ceramic flrs, gas fireplace, main flr living, dining, family & kitchen, fenced yd, shed, master ensuite. MLS.

property for the hobbyist, detached shop with hydro, attached double car garage. 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home, spacious sunroom addition with gas fireplace and walkout to yard, eat in kitchen, appliances included. MLS

4 BEDROOM HOME $379,900 DRAYTON 10 year old 2121 SQ.FT two storey, attached double car garage, fenced yard, shed & deck. Oak kitchen w/granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, bright living room, main floor laundry, 2 ensuite privileges, central air. MLS

D L O S

CENTURY HOME! Located in St.Jacobs close to school and amenities, this home, Circa 1850, offers an eat-in kitchen, 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and lots of space for the growing family. Updates include wiring, furnace and some windows. Roof recently replaced. MLS $259,900. Call Bert to view.

D L O S

ELMIRA BUNGALOW! Brick home on a large lot located close to schools and amenities offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, possible in-law suite, finished basement, some hardwood and some windows replaced. MLS $329,900. Call Bert to view.

TOWNHOME BACKS ONTO GREENSPACE $309,900 ELMIRA Double

car garage, access to interior & rear yard, kitchen w/appliances, cozy dinette, ceramic flrs, spacious living room, walkout to deck, large master w/walk-in, finished basement, 3 bdrms, 3 baths, central air. NEW MLS

Your referrals are appreciated!

CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET EVALUATION

SELLING YOUR HOME?

ADVERTISE IT IN CANADA’S BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

R.W. ThuR Real esTaTe lTd. 45 Arthur St. S., Elmira

BRad MaRTIN

Brokerage LET OUR 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU!

JulIe heCKeNdORN

TRaCeY WIllIaMs

Broker of record, Broker Sales rep. MVa residential res: 519.669.1068 res: 519.669.8629 Cell: 519.505.0627

519-669-2772 www.thurrealestate.com

bEEf fArm – 148 acres, just north of Alma. Newer barn (1995) w/room for approx. 325 head of cattle. Concrete den floor — former veal stable. TWO dwellings. 3 silos (one sealed) plus bunker silos. TMR mixer. Large machinery shed. Manure storage and liquid tank. Some systematic tile drains. NEW MLS.

NEW PRICE

® REALTY LTD., BROKERAGE INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

519.500.1865 (Direct)

Dale R. Keller

17 Church St. W., Elmira • 519.669.1544 (Business)

Sales Representative

www.KellerSellsRealEstate.com | dale@kellersellsrealestate.com

NEW LISTING | Drayton Ridge | $371,900 Model - Verdone Homes. Custom bungalow, numerous upgrades. MLS Call Dale.

Drayton | $359,000 A lot of house for the money. Large 4+1 bedroom, with walk-out finished basement, huge master and ensuite, separate detached insulated and wired workshop, above ground pool, large fenced yard and more. MLS Call Dale.

NEW LISTING

$2,450,000

Sunday, March 15, 2-4pm 20 Centre Street, Elmira

ELMIRA CENTURY HOME! Many beautiful features in this 1888 home including 10’ ceilings main floor and 11’ ceilings on the second floor, original front door, pine flooring, nice foyer and staircase, two bathrooms, hot water heating. and stainless steel appliances. Unique detached double carport and beautiful exterior trim. MLS NEW PRICE $455,000. Call Bert to view.

www.YourFamilyTeam.ca DRAYTON RIDGE

www.remaxsolidgold.biz

EMAIL: bert@remaxsolidgold.biz

OPEN HOUSE

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED, BROKERAGE

90 Earl Martin Dr., Unit 4, Elmira N3B 3L4

DIRECT: 519-572-2669 3 Arthur St. S. Elmira

NEW PRICE

Worth a Look | Drayton | $489,000 For her - large 1/2 acre in town property with renovated 4 bdrm, 3 bth home, large front porch and rear deck, attached dble garage. For him - a detached dream workshop 2400 sq ft, chain hoist, hydraulic lift, air compressor and lines, insulated and heated, room for ALL your toys. MLS Call Dale.

Sale or Lease Elmira | $329,000 Commercial building, great exposure from 2 main streets, Arthur and Church, retail on main floor and large 2 bdrm upstairs. Upgraded and renovated 2011. Both up and down currently rented. Also available for lease. MLS Call Dale.

Take A Look Drayton | $319,000 Spacious open concept raised bungalow with cathedral ceiling, bright newer windows, a bright wide open rec. room, and many recent updates. Steps to school, medical centre, library, groceries, fitness gym. Fully fenced yard and walkout to deck. MLS. Call Dale.

Country | NEW PRICE | $419,000

$539,000

$239,999

LOT & LOCATION! Attractive ‘family home’ nestled in the trees. FOUR bdrms. Lots of updates – shingles, siding, furnace, CAC, carpeting, rec. room. Spacious kitchen + D.R. 2 decks (hot tub). Walkup bsmt. Wrought iron fence surrounds the INGROUND pool. Parking for 6-8 vehicles! EXCLUSIVE.

LINwOOd – 5 Bdrm. home on a Lge. lot – 66 x 165’. Main flr. master bdrm & 4 bdrms upstairs. L/R and D/R. Large kitchen PLUS office/pantry. Updated flooring, doors, windows and kitchen. New HWH (owned). Sliding dr.from kitchen to deck and back yard. Lots of house! MLS REDUCED.

$385,000 dEEP LOT – spotless 4 level backsplit offers lots of living space. Eat-in kitchen + din. room. Open concept to lower level family room w/large windows, gas fireplace & bar. 3 bdrms. 2 baths. Very well maintained. Lots of storage space! Mature trees in back yard . Concrete driveway. MLS.

Spring iS juSt around the corner … we have buyers waiting!

CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET EVALUATION

Almost 3 acres with a bush and fully fenced pond. On a paved road central to Harriston, Mount Forest, Kenilworth, Drayton. Custom built bungalow with impressive front entrance, high ceilings, fireplace, loads of windows, 2 walk outs to huge back deck, walk up from basement and more. A great place to raise a family. MLS Call Dale.

Compare | $419,000 Custom built bungalow on a large lot. Covered deck, 3 gas fireplaces, vaulted and coffered ceilings, wired for sound, hard wood and ceramic flooring, granite counters, arches, pillars, and much more. MLS Call Dale.

For info on these or any other real estate enquiries, Call Dale

LIVING HERE | 21

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

LIVING HERE Chef’s table/ dierre Acheson

retirement / a personalized farewell

Saying so long ... with potatoes Spud-centric celebration marks the end of Frank Ewald’s tenure at Breslau Public School SCOTT BARBER When it came time to celebrate Frank Ewald’s tenure as principal at Breslau Public School, the staff and students knew just what to do. Given Ewald’s expansive collection of Mr. Potato Head toys, the school community decided to hold a potato drive for the House of Friendship in honour of his passion for charity work. “We wanted to do something to celebrate his support and leadership at the school,” acting principal Sharlene McHolm explained. “And so as part of our philanthropic support for this wonderful community, which has been so supportive of the school, our staff members came up with the idea to get onboard with the House of Friendship’s potato drive.” On March 6, the school welcomed Ewald back – he had been on medical leave for much of the school year – for a goodbye assembly. That’s when Ewald first learned about the drive. “The potato drive was a surprise to me,” Ewald said. “I was invited back to the school because at this point in time I will not be returning to the school as principal. ... They organized this assembly as an opportunity for the students to say farewell. And so when I walked into the gym, I walked through the door and saw this huge mound of potatoes, and it was certainly shocking.” Students and teachers brought in more than 500

Cupcakes a fit for St. Patrick’s big day RECIPE NOTES

Breslau Public School celebrated Frank Ewald’s tenure as principal with a potato drive for a local charity. Cary Devrieze’s Grade 2 class got into the spirit of the event with potato costumes. [Submitted] community member who pounds of the popular tusembly, the school added a because it is a big deal.” wanted to help us organize bers. Several classes took new “Mashter Yoda” head And it was well dea family canoe evening. the theme a step further, to the mix. served, McHolm said. And now we have had reciting poems and stories It made for a touching “His value system is three annual spring family featuring potatoes, while tribute. about connecting with canoe evenings where we Mrs. DeVrieze’s Grade 2 “Breslau is a marvelpeople and it’s also about have had dozens upon doz- making sure people underclass created potato cosous community,” Ewald ens of families in canoes tumes. said. “It’s a village that is stand that they are imporgoing down the Grand Ewald’s collections of obviously going through tant members of the comRiver, which is such a great munity. In many respects, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Heads a lot of growth right now. thing because the Grand started back in the ’90s, When I arrived almost four his love of children could River is a such a big part of after he was inspired by years ago, the school had be seen in, well, his Mr. Poour community – it’s right the popular sitcom Third a population of about 380 tato Head collection, I’ve there.” Rock from the Sun, which students and now it has never seen an administraHe continued, “The featured the iconic toy on over 600 students. We’ve tor with an office and book reading program was also character Dick Solomon’s also seen a very big growth shelves so full of books very near and dear to my (portrayed by John Lithof the school with the adas well as toys. He always heart. The home reading gow) desk. Now, Ewald dition – that has been fanloved to make positive conprogram was really special. nections with the students has nearly 100, including tastic. But the community We would announce the heads styled after characis really a community that through reading. He is very kids’ names when they ters from Disney movies works and plays together. much focused on individreached milestones for and the Star Wars franOne of the things that I am ual child wellbeing as well reading at home and really chise. very proud to have been as creating strong human make a big deal out of it At the Breslau PS asa part of is that we had a connections.”

Can you feel it? Spring is coming, and our store is coming together with all things Irish, spring, maple syrup and Easter. We all get so excited when a new season approaches. I also found myself with an hour to spare last week. A highly unusual moment, to have for a business owner and mom. Of course, I had some errands to run and decided to buy my “IT person” a treat at the LCBO – we couldn’t make some very important steps without him. While in the store I thought, “oh, yes, I need to get some Guinness to start our Irish stew and cupcakes for next week ... wait a minute, Dierre, there must be a local source to a dark beer.” I knew exactly where to go. Block 3 in St. Jacobs, of course! Chocolate Rain, amazing, fresh, great depth of flavour, perfect for cooking and drinking. You really can’t have one without the other on a Saturday afternoon. Anyway, our project has been a tasty success and we are happy to have yet another local alternative that far surpasses the global product. Our Irish Cupcakes are a delectable surprise, with a smooth white chocolate Baileys ganache and our chef’s table | 23

Benefits of vehicle alignment With all of the snow finally melting (yay), it is a great time of year to get your alignment checked. As you hit rough roads and pot holes left by the winter it is possible that your vehicle could be out of alignment. A poorly aligned vehicle will greatly reduce the life of your tires and can also cause poor handling while driving. ~ Gary

Tel: (519) 669-1082 Fax: (519) 669-3084

20 Oriole Parkway E., Elmira, ON

info@leroysautocare.net

www.leroysautocare.net

22 | LIVING HERE

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

“A GOOD JOB DONE EVERY TIME”

Skilled craftsmanship. Quality materials. CONSTRUCTION STARTS HERE.

Kleensweep Carpet Care

3435 Broadway St. Hawkesville 519-699-4641

Rugs and Upholstery

•Mattress Cleaning •Residential •Commercial •Personalized Service •Free Estimates

COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

West Montrose, ON

T. 519.669.2033

COLLEEN

Cell: 519.581.7868

Truck & Trailer Maintenance Cardlock Fuel Management

COMMERCIAL 24 CARDLOCK FUEL DEPOT HOUR M&G MILLWRIGHTS LTD. • Design • Installation • Custom Fabrication

MATERIAL HANDLING & PROCESSING SYSTEMS

519.669.5105

KIN KORNER

www.freybc.com

E-MAIL: ads@woolwichobserver.com

MARCH 14

MARCH 17

Wellesley & District Lions Club presents: Spring Music Night with Allison Lupton. Wellesley Community Centre, 1000 Maple Leaf St. Doors open at 7 p.m., music starts at 8 p.m. Admission $20 in advance, $25 at the door. All proceeds benefit Wellesley’s accessible playground project. For more information or to purchase tickets, please call 519-656-9374 or visit https://springmusicnight. eventbrite.ca.

bingo, upstairs at the St. Clements Community Centre, 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Paradise & District Lions Club. Wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact Joe Brick at 519-699-4022.

Roast Beef Dinner and Dessert bar, 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. sittings. Elmira Legion, 11 First St. W., Elmira. Tickets $15. Call in advance 519-669-2932.

MARCH 15 Toy Show and Sale sponsored by Alma Optimist Club. Set up 8-10 a.m., show 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Display table $5; Sale table $20. Additional sale table $10 ea. Admission $3 per person; children under 12 free. For more information John or Helen Broadfoot at 519843-1055.

MARCH 16 Woolwich Community Lions is sponsoring a free Public Swim from 1:15-3:15 p.m. Woolwich Memorial Centre, Snyder Ave. Elmira. Elmira & District Horticultural Meeting. Guest speaker: Derek Lippert “Rain Gardens,” 7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Church, 21 Arthur St. N., Elmira. Please use the back entrance & bring shoes to wear.

1540 FLORDALE ROAD

St. Charles St. E., Maryhill. Haddock $15 pp. Takeout available. Call 519-648-9865 after 3 p.m. day of.

Tuesday Luncheon at Gale Presbyterian Church, 10 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira; 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Menu: meat loaf, salad, green peas, chocolate oven pudding with mint ice cream, beverage, $12. Takeouts can be ordered by calling 519-669-2852 (must pick up).

MARCH 18

MARCH 23

Seniors Lunch Club at noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Wellesley Community Centre, 1000 Maple Leaf St., Wellesley. Cost $6. Call Community Care Concepts 519-664-1900 or toll free 1-855-664-1900 for more info.

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 519-664-1900 for more information.

MARCH 19 The Lions Club of Elmira Bingo – 7 p.m. at Elmira Lions Hall, 40 South St., Elmira. All proceeds go to support the many projects of the Lions Club of Elmira. For more information call 519-572-2669.

MARCH 20 Ariss and District Lions Club monthly fish fry, 4-8 p.m. Maryhill Heritage Park Community Centre, 58

woolwichkin.com

MARCH 21 Menno Singers invites you to come join us for our third concert of the season; 7:30 pm., Waterloo North Mennonite Church, Waterloo. Tickets $20 each may be purchased on line at www.mennosingers. com. You may also purchase tickets for this concert at Music Plus, Mennonite Savings and Credit Union, from choir members or at the door.

Woolwich Community Services has trained volunteers available to complete your income tax return. Free of charge to people with limited income. To find out if you qualify visit Woolwich Community Services at 5 Memorial Ave., Elmira or call 519-669-5139.

Check Us Out Online!

21 INDUSTRIAL DR. ELMIRA

519-669-2884

MARCH 24 bingo, upstairs at the St. Clements Community Centre, 7 p.m. Sponsored by the Paradise & District Lions Club. Wheelchair accessible. For more information, contact Joe Brick at 519-699-4022.

MARCH 25 Seniors Community Dining at noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Linwood Community Centre, 5279 Ament Line, Linwood. Cost $11. Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for a hot noonday meal, fellowship and entertainment. Call 519-664-1900 or toll free 1-855-664-1900 for more information.

CORPORATE WEAR PROMOTIONAL APPAREL WORK & SAFETY WEAR | BAGS T-SHIRTS | JACKETS | HATS

245 Labrador Drive | Waterloo

519.886.2102

P.O. BOX 247, ELMIRA

www.mgmill.com

www.UniTwin.com

Submit an event The Events Calendar is reserved for Non-profit local community events that are offered free to the

public. Placement is not guaranteed. Registrations, corporate events, open houses and the like do not qualify in this section.

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

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL

YOUR OIL, PROPANE, NATURAL GAS AND AIR CONDITIONING EXPERTS

RRSPs, RESPs, RRIFs, LIFs and Annuities.

New to the Community? Do you have a new Baby?

Elmira & Surrounding Area

652 Waterbury Lane, Waterloo

519.664.2008

226-266-2432 pmerlihan@woolwich.ca @PatMerlihan www.merlihan.com

SHARON GINGRICH 519.291.6763 psgingrich@hotmail.ca

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

St. James Lutheran Church

MACHINE WORKS INCORPORATED

COUNCILLOR | WARD 1 WOOLWICH TOWNSHIP

VERMONT Castings

11 HENRY ST. - UNIT 9, ST. JACOBS

SANYO CANADIAN

PATRICK MERLIHAN

It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon Hostess.

9:00 am: Christian Education 10:15 am: Worship Pastor: Hans J.W. Borch Proclaiming Christ through Love and Service

60 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519-669-5591

Nursery Provided

Sunday School

Zion Mennonite Fellowship -The JunctionSunday School 9:30am Worship Service 10:45am Finding The Way Together 47 Arthur St., S. Elmira • 519-669-3153 www.thejunctionelmira.com

Sunday School at 9:30am

850 Sawmill Rd, Bloomingdale, ON N0B 1K0 (519) 744-7447 | kcf@kcf.org | www.kcf.org

33 Industrial Dr., Elmira 519.669.1591

Service at 10:30am Rev. Paul Snow

Hearing Assisted

Sun., March 15th 11:00 am

Walking theTalk Gary Goodkey

Discovering God Together

4522 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein www.wbconline.ca • 519-669-2319

REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.

REACH WITH LOVE. TEACH THE TRUTH. SEND IN POWER.

www.kcf.org/academy

290 Arthur St. South, Elmira • 519-669-3973 www.ElmiraAssembly.com (Across from Tim Horton’s)

Emmanuel

Worship: 9:30am Elmira Mennonite Fourth Sunday of Lent: Church God Amidst the Shadows

EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH

Sunday, March 15, 2015

58 Church St. W., Elmira • 519-669-5123

9:15 & 11:00 AM Series: Challenging questions. Honest conversations.

Trending

REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.

www.OBSERVERXTRA.com

SUNDAYS @ 10:30AM @ Park Manor School 18 Mockingbird Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1459 www.elmiracommunity.org

#Devil & Demons 200 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1296 www.woodsidechurch.ca

Worship Service

Sundays 10:45am

elmiraemmanuel.com

519.669.5030

Sunday School 9:45am Worship Service 11:00am Hopping Thursdays 7-8:30pm 22 Florapine Rd., Floradale • 519-669-2861 www.floramc.org

LIVING HERE | 23

THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 14, 2015

Strange but true / BILL & RICH SONES Ph.D.

Forensic linguistics among the growing list of CSI tricks weâ€™ve come to enjoy WEIRD NOTES

Q. Who are â€œforensic lin-

guistsâ€? and what brought them to the fore in the 1990s? How do â€œforensic astronomersâ€? and â€œforensic botanistsâ€? fit into the picture?

A. All employ their specialized field to detect and solve crimes. The use of linguistics emerged in the 1960s but didnâ€™t become popular until the 1990s, with the Unabomber case, reports Jennifer Wood in â€œMental Flossâ€? magazine. All of us have highly individual and identifiable ways of talking and writing, overusing certain words,

misspelling others. When FBI linguist James Fitzgerald set out to solve the case of the Unabomber -- who had killed several people and injured many more by using homemade bombs -- he decided to publish the Unabomberâ€™s â€œmanifestoâ€? to see if anyone might recognize the writing style. Several people, including the bomberâ€™s brother and sister-in-law, did -- and called in. â€œSoon, Ted Kaczynski was in handcuffs.â€? Elsewhere, the testimony of forensic astronomers has brought celestial bodies (mostly the moon and sun) into court. â€œWhen Abraham Lincoln was a lawyer, he successfully defended a client against murder charges by establishing the position of the moon on the night of

the crime (disproving the testimony of the prosecutionâ€™s key witness). Today, most forensic astronomers work for museums, not lawyers,â€? helping art historians determine artwork authenticity. Perhaps the most famous case involving a forensic botanist was the kidnapping of Charles Lindberghâ€™s son. â€œIn 1935, Bruno Hauptmann propped a homemade ladder against Lindberghâ€™s house, climbed up to one of the bedroom windows and snatched the aviatorâ€™s 20-month-old son.â€? In court, wood technologist Arthur Koehler testified that one of the ladder rails was a missing floorboard from the suspectâ€™s attic. Forensic botany helped lock Hauptmann away.

â€œthreatened,â€? common grackles, eastern meadowlarks and northern bobwhites have lost â€œmore than half their population during the last 40 years.â€? Q. At your next party of brainiac friends, challenge them to be the first to answer: A bat and a ball together cost $1.10, with the bat costing a dollar more than the ball. So whatâ€™s the cost of the ball? Quick now!

Q. What does it mean for

all of us to be living in the â€œpost-pigeon centuryâ€??

A. Thatâ€™s the terminology used to mark the 100th anniversary of the death of the last known passenger pigeon in 1914, reports Susan Milius in â€œScience Newsâ€? magazine. For the occasion, the slim coffee-andcream-colored taxidermy mount of that final pigeon, named Martha, was put on display at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. â€œVisitors puzzled anew at how a species once numbering several billion vanished in decades.â€? The 2014 State of the Birds report offered a list of 33 â€œcommon birds in steep decline.â€? Though too numerous to be considered

Now for a second puzzle: â€œIn a lake is a patch of lily pads that every day doubles in size. If it takes 48 days for the patch to cover the entire lake, how long would it take for the patch to cover half of the lake?â€? Probably your first tack is to divide the 48 days by half and answer 24 days. Actually, the correct solution is 47 days, since the 48th final doubling will cover the lakeâ€™s other half. Moral: When people face an uncertain situation, they often depend on a long list of mental shortcuts, leading them to make foolish decisions.

A. Rare will be your group

if the first response isnâ€™t $.10, with the dime pushing the total to $1.10. Nice try, but think about it a minute: Is a dollar item $1.00 more than a $.10 item? Think some more and youâ€™ll get the correct answer, $.05 for the ball and $1.05 for the bat, says Jonah Lehrer in the â€œNew Yorkerâ€? magazine.

about the authors Bill is a journalist, Rich holds a doctorate in physics. Together the brothers bring you â€œStrange But True.â€? Send your questions to strangetrue@compuserve.com.

OBSERVER CROSSWORD PUZZLER Across 1. Units of work 5. Mudded 11. Consume 16. Human body 17. Ill will 18. Nitrogen compound 19. Flat mass of ice 21. Poiluâ€™s term for his foe 22. Batmanâ€™s sidekick 23. â€œBe-Bop-___â€? (Gene Vincent hit) 24. Black 25. Rockyâ€™s love 26. Look down on 28. Honouree 30. Armageddon 31. Axlike tool 34. Took in, as a film 35. Consisting of multiple words 38. Cheat, slangily 39. Atomic number 2 41. Small three-masted vessel 43. Garage job 47. Decree

48. Corner 49. One who goes for the gold? 50. Army leaders (Abbr.) 51. Ziti, e.g. 52. Freshen 53. Check for accuracy 54. Algonquian language 56. Egg-shaped instrument 60. Baptism, for one 61. Mermaidâ€™s home 64. Dust coat 66. Like fans 69. Beneficial 70. Octoberâ€™s birthstone 73. Kidâ€™s name 74. Type machines, for short 75. Short-legged dog 76. Mary of â€œThe Maltese Falconâ€? 77. Fish 78. Outline 80. Bickerer in the â€œIliadâ€? 81. Marsh growth 82. Go around 83. Bad day for Caesar

Down 1. Wipe out 2. Deodorant type 3. Ichnography 4. Refine, as metal 5. Yours truely 6. Detaches 7. â€œFollow me!â€? 8. Gunâ€™s recoil 9. ___ alcohol 10. Turn red, perhaps 11. Fashionable pendant 12. Island group that includes SĂŁo Miguel 13. Shinbones 14. Eastern Christian 15. Wrote 20. Ed.â€™s request 25. Mr. Goldfinger 27. â€œYes, ___â€? 29. Acquiesce 32. Third axis in a 3-d coordinate system 33. Voter 36. Blow off steam? 37. Morgue, for one 39. Embrace

40. Barely make, with â€œoutâ€? 42. Indian fritter 43. 100 kurus 44. Single-handed 45. â€œWanna ___?â€? 46. Afore 48. Birth-related 49. Copy cats? 51. Kind of code 52. Lying, maybe 53. Malwares 55. Cursive script 56. Eyepiece 57. Trig function 58. Right, in a way 59. Pleat again 62. â€œMore!â€? 63. Ancient Greek marketplaces 65. Eccentric 67. Mozartâ€™s â€œLâ€™___ del Cairoâ€? 68. Hindu sage 71. Get ready, for short 72. City on the Yamuna River 75. Taxi 79. The objective case of we

tasty buttercream. Happy St Patrickâ€™s Day and I hope you find your pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Happy cooking!

Irish Cupcakes 3 cups flour 1-1/2 cups cocoa 2 tbsp espresso powder 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 1 cup veg. oil 4 cups sugar

4 large eggs 1 cup yogurt 2 tsp vanilla 9 oz Chocolate Rain beer from Block 3

Icing 1/2 lb butter 4 cups icing sugar 1/8 cup Baileys Irish Cream

Sudoku challenge

1 tsp vanilla Green food colouring to desired colour

about the author Never Enough Thyme Catering Inc. was created with one thought in mind ... to create more thyme! Enjoy our food shop, specialty cakes and catering. 83A Arthur St. S., Elmira. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.

Whip butter until pale yellow. Add icing sugar, a few drops of food colouring and Baileys, then whip again until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Pipe on cupcakes and serve.

The challenge

Preheat oven at 350 F, prep muffin tins with butter and cupcake liners. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cocoa, espresso powder, soda, salt. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar and oil, finish with yogurt and vanilla. Then add the dry ingredients and finally the beer. Place batter twothirds the way up the cupcake tin. Bake until a wooden skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool.

Chefâ€™s table: Colouring it up in honour of St. Patrick From | 21

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. Weâ€™ve started you with a few numbers already placed in the boxes.

24 | BACK PAGE

THE OBSERVER | march 14, 2015

Increase to fee-for-information plan draws ire of Wellesley Coun. Neher Whitney Neilson A proposed $10 increase for every hour township staff spends collecting written material for resident requests drew questioning from Coun. Herb Neher at Wellesley council on Monday night. “We’re charging people $50 to come over the counter to ask for copies of any kind of written material. I think that that’s really excessive,” Neher said. “I think that we are here to provide services. If we’re going to start charging people for the time they spend with us and start charging them for paper, start charging them for every type of thing, I have a concern with that. I think that’s what they pay taxes for.” The proposed increase is from $40 to $50 for every hour of staff labour, plus HST and an eight per cent administration fee. Neher said it should be part of the township’s job to provide that type of service. He suggested adding an amendment to the fee, for example that anything over 20 pages would cost the customer or to charge

Councillor Herb Nehr per a page. “I don’t have a problem with us charging if somebody wants to have photocopies, but as a flat $50 fee I have a problem,” Neher said. “If somebody wants to access something and it only requires us a minute or two, it’s two pieces of paper and we’re going to charge them $50, I have a real concern with that.” Township planner Geoff Vanderbaaren agreed, advising councillors meeting March 9 that since he started working for the township he’s never charged the full fee. “If I’m spending five or 10 minutes to gather some

information together, I wouldn’t charge them for that,” Vanderbaaren said. “This is intended to cover off someone who’s put in a request to the municipality that I’m going to need to spend two or three hours to gather information for.” He added the typical day to day requests they don’t charge for. The full list of fees and charges revisions is up for approval at the March 17 council meeting. Treasurer Theresa Bisch said they’ve always had a charge per hour for when people come in to the finance department and need them to search their taxes back further than they can on the computer. “It’s to cover our staff time for that. We do have that if it’s something we can’t easily access,” Bisch said. They’re also proposing adding charges for reprints of some bills because more people aren’t keeping their paper copies. “So it does take a lot of staff time to take care of some of these things,” Bisch said. “We do charge for certain things, but we use our judgment.”

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Waterloo North Hydro Inc. Customer Consultation Survey

What Matters to YOU? We are conducting a short on-line survey to obtain your feedback regarding hydro distribution services. We are looking to engage you, our customer to tell us how we can better align our operational and capital investment plans with your needs and preferences. This is required for our January 1, 2016 Rate Filing with the Ontario Energy Board. As a customer, this is your opportunity to provide input about our plans and the cost implications to you. In addition, WNH will outline the challenges in operating and maintaining the local electricity distribution system, and more importantly, how we intend to meet those challenges. In appreciation of your time you will be eligible by random draw to win one of four $500 prepaid MasterCards. This survey will be available on-line until April 1, 2015. Please use the following link to complete the survey: www.wnhcustomerconsultation.com

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