NEW OWNERSHIP! Calvin Knarr Owner/Operator
Same Great Service, Same Friendly Faces!
• Computer Diagnostics • General Automotive Repairs • Regular and Annual Safeties • Tires and Brakes
10 Main St., Drayton | alvacherreygarage@gmail.com
“Friendly, Affordable, Efficient Service”
03 | 07 | 2015 VOLUME 20 | ISSUE 10
Elmira gymnast takes pair Of silvers in B.C. SPORTS PAGE 12
COMMENT PAGE 6
Council first needs
to know what it’s buying
Ceremonial first tap done, local syrup producers wait for weather to cooperate
Woolwich split on regional scheme for economic corp.
Scott Barber During the coldest February on record, there was little hope producers would be getting an early jump on maple syrup season. But that didn’t stop organizers of the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival, officials with the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association and local politicians from gathering near Heidelberg February 27 for the ceremonial first tap. Asked at the event about how this syrup season was shaping up, OMSPA vice president Terry Hoover joked, “are you kidding me? It’s freezing out here!” Hoover, of Hoover’s Maple Syrup in Atwood, like all syrup producers across the province, is waiting for temperatures to get up to seasonal levels. With February’s record-breaking cold – the average of minus-14.8 was the coldest ever recorded – and the complete lack of above freezing temperatures, the season will come later than usual this year. But once the freeze-thaw cycle begins – with temperatures roughly plus-five Celsius during the day and minus-five overnight – producers will be ready to go. Tapping | 2
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
Pair of councillors lose bid for deferral due to lack of information in staff report; township to push ahead STEVE KANNON
Local syrup producer Dale Martin flips a pancake at the ceremonial first tap event hosted by the Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association and the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival at George Martin’s sugar bush just south of Heidelberg on Feb. 27. [Scott Barber / The Observer]
Shipping Made Easy.
Short on details, a new economic development plan was nonetheless endorsed by Woolwich council in a split decision Tuesday night. The move commits the township to dropping $160,000 over the next four years on an as-yet-formed or defined Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation (WREDC). A region-wide initiative, the organization would eventually take a collective $2 million a year from residents of the four townships and three cities. Two councillors objected to the plan, noting the scarcity of details in a staff report, paucity of benefits to residents and lack of accountability for the public’s money. Councillors
Patrick Merlihan and Larry Shantz pushed to defer the matter until council could be shown real figures backing the expenditure of residents’ money on the new venture. “There are a lot of things missing,” said Merlihan of the staff report’s lack of real numbers. “I would like a more detailed report.” He said the document was not satisfactory, providing an inadequate amount of information for councillors to make a decision. Calling it “thin on accountability,” he questioned whether the report would make a suitable business plan if the region went to the bank looking for $2 million. The joint economic development strategy came out of efforts by the chief administrative officers WREDC | 5
“Your Transportation Specialists” Since 1995
For All Your Transportation Needs. LTL/TL
Oversized
Flatbed/Van
Expedite
Put your freight into our caring arms.
519.699.5018 | 1.800.266.2671 3585 Lobsinger Line St. Clements
dti-logistics.com
2 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
February sets a new record for cold temperatures, as if we needed to be told SCOTT BARBER It’s official: February was the coldest month ever recorded in the Waterloo Region. According to Environment Canada, the average
temperature of minus-14.8 Celsius surpassed the previous record of minus-13.2 set way back in 1934. That’s a 9.3-degree drop off from the typical February average of minus-5.5. And with 19 days below
ca for full schedule Visit www.rwlibrary.
at the Region of Waterloo Library Branches
The Amazing Corbin (All ages)
Wednesday, March 18 | 7:00 p.m. | at St. Clements Branch | 519-699-4341
Master Corbin (All ages)
Wednesday, March 18 | 2:30 p.m. | at Bloomingdale Branch | 519-745-3151
Mystic Drumz (Ages 2 – 12 years)
Thursday, March 19 | 10:30 a.m. | at Elmira Branch | 519-669-5477
Puppets Elora: Frog Prince & Stone Soup (Ages 5 & up) Tuesday, March 17 | 3:00 p.m. | at St. Jacobs Branch | 519-664-3443 Show is FREE! Generously sponsored by the Lions Club of St. Jacobs.
Thursday, March 19 | 2:30 p.m. | at Wellesley Branch | 519-656-2001 Tickets are $3 per person or two for $5; everyone attending the show must have a ticket. Visit www.rwlibrary.ca for full schedule of March Break events and special programs available at all Region of Waterloo Library branches.
minus-20 (not including the wind chill) – there are typically two such days in February each year – it’s clear this was a truly remarkable stretch. “There has never been a winter month (in the Waterloo Region) that has ever reached that kind of temperature that we saw this year,” Environment Canada senior climatologist David Phillips said. “The vast majority of the days saw the mercury, and I’m not talking about the wind chill, I’m talking about the honest to goodness temperature on a thermometer, in
the extreme cold range. It really is quite unusual.” It was cold all across the province, but it was especially bad in the Waterloo Region. “Nobody was left out of the cold, whether it was Windsor, Point Pelee, Moosonee or where ever, it was relentless cold. And in many ways, (the Waterloo area) seemed to be almost a cold pole in a way; it was certainly colder than Hamilton, London and Toronto.” The low of minus-34.1 on February 16 was the peak of the deep freeze. That’s the coldest temperature in
the region in more than 110 years, since there is a recording of minus-35.6 from 1904, Phillips said. And the warmest moment last month? It got up to minus-1.6 on the seventh. That’s right, it never, not for one second, got up past the freezing mark. While February was a record breaker, the winter overall is still likely to be about a half degree milder on average, overall , compared to last year’s frigid winter, Phillips said. With that in mind, many in the region are probably pining for some warmer
weather. According to Phillips, it’s on its way. No really, it is. “Our models are showing that March might be a little cooler at the beginning, as we’re using up some of that cold reserve, but there is nothing to suggest that we are going to go back into a prolonged deep freeze. The models seem to suggest a warm-up coming at the end of March and into April.” But don’t put the snow shovel away just yet, Phillips said, since we typically see about 22 per cent of our annual snowfall volume after March 1.
Tapping: Season won’t be getting off to an early start this year from | Cover
“If there’s one positive to the late start it’s that everyone will be extra prepared,” OMSPA president Ray Bonenberg said. “It takes quite a bit of work to get set up for the season, and this time around, there is no excuse not to be in tip-top shape.” Woolwich Mayor Sandy Shantz, Regional Chair Ken Seiling and maple syrup historian Albert Martin helped Hoover and Bonenberg with the ceremonial tapping on a large maple
on George Martin’s farm on Lobsinger Line, just south of Heidelberg. Just like last year, Seiling led his speech with a joke about running low on syrup. He also quipped on the importance of agriculture to the region’s economy. “It’s great to be here again, and one of the things this event tells me is that we can stop rationing the last two bottles of syrup at home because the season is coming again. ... The maple syrup industry is an impor-
tant part of the agricultural economy here in the region. Some people think that what drives the economy in the region is the high-tech industries and manufacturing, but the agriculture and farm economy is huge in this region and that’s why we are working so hard to preserve it.” Once the sap starts to run, producers will look for warmer temperatures to hold off, since once the prolonged warmth comes, the trees begin to bud. “Once the trees bud they
start producing syrup with a different, almost buddy, earthy flavour,” Bonenberg explained. “It’s not off-putting, but that is generally when the season ends.” The longer the season, the more syrup; the more syrup, the more money. Though it’s certainly not just about money for local producers. As Hoover joked, “as one lady put it, ‘maple syrup producing is like crack cocaine, once you start you can’t stop.’ It’s an addiction, some call it the sweets.”
NEWS | 3
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Site plan in place, new Riverside school could be under construction by this spring SCOTT BARBER The new Riverside Public School site plan is in, and pending approval by Woolwich Township this month, shovels could break ground this spring. The Waterloo Region District School Board facility will host junior kindergarten through Grade 6 students, along with a daycare run by the region. Scheduled to open for classes in September 2016, the $11.6-million project will replace the existing school on William Street with a location in the centre of the new Lunor subdivision on the northwest side of town. Plans for the new school took off last year after a WRDSB boundary study conducted in 2012-13 showed that Elmira’s public elementary schools were over capacity. “The new Riverside PS attendance area was determined as part of the Elmira elementary schools boundary study that concluded November 25, 2013,” a statement from the board
read. “The boundary will include all of the current Riverside PS boundary, as well as the Country Club Estates (Finoro Homes) subdivision.” According to the board, Elmira public elementary schools were an average of 136 per cent over capacity in 2013, with Riverside PS at 318 per cent over its recommended enrollment limit. Together with renovations at John Mahood PS, grade organizational changes and the new Riverside facility, the WRDSB decided to maintain existing boundaries. But with two major developments on the books for Elmira (Lunor and Birdland), questions remain regarding whether the WRDSB will be able to service the influx of families to the community in the coming years. According to board projections, the new Riverside PS will be roughly at its capacity of 557 students by 2018. Riverside | 28
Jacob Bouzane, Joseph Ditner and Braeden Hof took home gold in Lego Robotics at the Waterloo Regional Technological Skills Competition on Feb. 27. [Whitney Neilson / the observer]
Young students strut their tech stuff Teams from pair of township schools win medals at skills competition Whitney Neilson Young techies in Woolwich and Wellesley showed off their knowledge at the Waterloo Region Technological Skills Competition last week, bringing home medals in Lego Robotics and Video Editing. The intermediate Lego Robotics team at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic School in Elmira earned gold for the Waterloo Catholic District School Board. Teacher Cheryl ElliotFraser says they start the Lego Robotics club as early as Grade 4 and the intermediates teach the juniors. They have to build a robot and then program it to do different tasks. “We practice using different styles of tracks and using different types of arms,”
Elliot-Fraser said. “Prior to that they went around to every classroom and demonstrated it, just to get other students interested. These guys have really taken a leadership role in the sense that they’re teaching other students in the school also how to build robots. They’ve been working with our junior teams too.” They first work with the students and teach them how to program it so it goes around a track and then they start using more sophisticated tracks. “These guys went on their PA day,” Elliot-Fraser said. “So all the students showed up that day and they ended up having, in total, at least 200.” More than 650 students in total competed from both school boards.
At the junior level teams can compete in Lego, where they build things out of Lego, Lego Robotics, and then Design and Build. Intermediate teams can compete in those categories plus Construction and Video Editing. “We haven’t done video editing here but we’re hoping to start it next year,” Elliot-Fraser said. Braeden Hof, Jacob Bouzane, and Joseph Ditner were the winning team. “The first step was to create our robot and then we had to do three challenges,” Hof said. “The first challenge was we had to create a robot arm to launch a ball into a basketball net.” Bouzane added, “And we had three tries. If you shoot from the middle of the little platform and you get it into
the net with the arm then it’s 10 points. We got it perfect all three times, so that was 30 points that we got.” Ditner said if they wouldn’t have made it from there they would have had to shoot from closer for five points, or even closer for three points. The second competition was to create an arm to shoot a hockey puck into a net. “It’s the same as the basketball,” Bouzane explained. “If you shoot from the middle of the platform you get 10 points, but you only get one try. So we got only 10 points from there.” The third competition was to make a program so the robot could maneouvre a maze labyrinth. There was Skills | 4
Council clears addition for Elmira heritage home, siding with applicants’ plan for site STEVE KANNON Much happier with the aesthetics of the original plan for an addition to an Elmira heritage home, Woolwich council this week backed the applicants over an alternative suggested by planning staff. The decision clears the way for a new conservatory, breezeway and detached garage to be
added on to the home at 2 William St., originally constructed in 1891 and designated for its heritage features in 1994. Known as the Dunke House, it’s a yellow brick house built in the Queen Anne style popular at the time. Heritage protections apply to three of the home’s facades: east, south and west. All of the construction would be along the north side of the building.
HOW TO REACH US
EE RY FR IVE L DE
Planning staff, however, argued against the design, pressing for the conservatory to be contained completely behind the north wall, with a smaller breezeway and garage area tucked back entirely behind a line running along the north face of the building. The goal is to protect the current heritage facades from any impact from the additions, director of engi-
A plan submitted by the Playford & Co. calls for the addition of a conservatory in the northeast corner, with a breezeway that would lead to a new detached garage to replace the current parking structure. The breezeway would wrap around the west side of the house, providing glassed-in protection for access to an existing stairwell leading into the basement.
neering and planning Dan Kennaley told councillors meeting March 3. For their part, the applicants had a firm carry out a heritage impact assessment – required given the property’s designation – that found no issues with the wrap-around features. “We’re not touching any of the heritage attributes,” said Scott Playford, noting the proposed addition “flows well with the Queen
Anne style.” The changes proposed by township staff would destroy the architectural enhancements of the proposed addition, he added. Councillors agreed, praising the applicants’ design. “I’m for heritage, but I’m also for good looks, too,” said Coun. Larry Shantz. “It’s well thought out,” added Coun. Mark Bauman.
Phone 519.669.5790 | toll free 1.888.966.5942 | fax 519.669.5753 | online www.observerxtra.com
Fast, Friendly & Professional Service
I N D E P E N D E N T LY O W N E D & OP E R AT E D
W • O • O • L • W • I • C • H
P
H
A
R
M
10 Church St. W., Elmira
A
C
Y
• Compounding • Compliance Packaging • Free Blood Pressure Check • Free Blood Glucose Monitor & Teaching • Ostomy & Home Health Care
519-669-8282
SAMER MIKHAIL
PHARMACIST/OWNER
OPEN: Monday to Friday 9am-7pm; Saturday 9am-4pm; Closed Sundays
4 | NEWS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Dog perishes in fire that destroys Wellesley shed utility shed approximately 100 feet from the home,” Lillico said. “The shed was fully engulfed upon our arrival. The crews had to stretch a line from the driveway of the residence approximately 600 feet back, to the shed. Again, the shed was fully involved in fire upon our arrival and they did an excellent job of knocking down the fire and not only that, they were able to cut cages adjacent to the shed, and to free and save five dogs.” Given the time of year,
SCOTT BARBER A beagle was killed after a shed went up in flames in Wellesley Township this week. Lighting in the shed, ostensibly used to warm the six dogs (three adults, three puppies) found near the shed, is presumed to have caused the fire, Wellesley Township fire chief Andrew Lillico said. The incident took place at 2995 Manser Rd. around 5:15 a.m. on March 2. “There was a fire in a
When “That will never happen to me” happens. Jeff Watkin, Agent 151 Frobisher Dr, Ste A204 Waterloo, ON N2V 2C9 Bus: 519-886-4470 jeff.watkin.icjk@statefarm.com
I'm ready to help. There’s never a good time for an accident to happen. But when it does, you can count on State Farm® to be there quickly so you can get your life back to normal. GET TO A BETTER STATE™. CALL ME TODAY.
1201022CN State Farm Canadian Head Office, Aurora, Ontario
FINAL 2 WEEnKdsS
with trade in
199
.95
SALE PRICE | $229.95
• Front-loading bobbin
from | 3
green tape around the edge of the track and if the robot touched it you had five seconds added to your time. The goal was to get through it as fast as possible. “On the maze that we had to go through our robot just before it reached the end, it got stuck on a fence,” Bouzane said. “We did so well on the other two that we still beat everybody else.” In preparation for the competition the team met and practiced making their robot go around different tracks and built different arms to see the best way to complete the basketball and hockey challenges. “We all thought that robotics would be fun so we all signed up for the very first year,” Hof said. Wellesley Public School’s intermediate team won third in Lego Robotics and
CLEARANCE $
• Heavy duty metal construction
379
$
.95
• 22 utility, stretch & decorative stitches • One-Step Auto-buttonholer
• Metal frame construction • Bonus Walking foot and 1/4” foot
A dog perished in a shed fire at 2995 Manser Rd. near Linwood in the early morning hours of Mar. 2. [Scott Barber / The Observer] the scene and found that “the amount of dogs that they had on site was within
(the homeowners) rights,” Lillico said. After saying the dogs
first in Video Editing for the Waterloo Regional District School Board. Timothy Zwart, Liam Robertson, Sarah Rath, and Cameron Ramer made up the Lego Robotics team and Jacquiline Bender and Noelle Marshall were the Video and Editing team. They said they practiced nearly every day building and programming the robot. “We tried and tried and tried and tried and it didn’t work, and we tried again and it worked,” Zwart said. Robertson added, “It was like a guess and check. We’d guess and check until we got it right.” He said working as a team was sometimes frustrating, but then it felt good when they’d figure out a solution. “We unfortunately didn’t score any points in hockey,
and the maze,” Robertson said. Rath finished, “We ran over a tree in the maze.” They split the work with two of them building and the other two programming the robot. Bender and Marshall’s video that took top honors was an episode about bullying that could be continued in the future, like a saga. “It was anti-bullying week last week, so we just got that inspiration from a whole bunch of stories we had heard over the week and decided it would be a good topic,” Bender said. They were judged on creativity, how interesting it was, their shots, and how the shots went together. “We had to learn how to use iMovie and I had never used that before, but luckily Noelle has so that really helped. And she knew how
SALE • 30-stitch computerized machine
SALE PRICE | $649.95
WEEKLY SPECIALS
Fresh Pickled
• Hard-shell carrying case
• extension table, quilting package, hard case
7.99
$
2.79
SE
LL
W
E
RVI
E C E W H AT W
SE
Monday to Wednesday........9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Thursday to Friday..............9:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. Saturday................................9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
TEL.
5198846981
kwsewingmachines.com
$3.29 /lb.
Cabbage Rolls 4.99
$ FREDERICK ST. MALL, KITCHENER
REG. PRICE
Pre Cooked
REG. $5.29 /lb.
TRAY OF 16
Many other models to choose from • Free lessons on any machine purchased • Sewing Baskets • Scissors
HOURS OF OPERATION
6.99
$
$8.99 /lb.
4.49
$
REG. $4.89 /lb.
REG. PRICE
$7.49 /lb.
Store Made (12 x 6 oz. box)
Angus Burgers
Headcheese 4030QDC
Serving the K-W Area for Over 35 Years
Stewing Beef
REG. PRICE
Store Made
$ HD2000
Fresh Cut
Corned Beef Brisket
• Needle up/down button • Start/stop button & speed control
to use the camera,” Bender said. They’re moving on to provincials on May 4 because of their first place win. They’ll be given a new task the day of to make a video. “It’s fun. You should do it,” Bender said. Teacher Joe Donofrio said their video was judged on content as well as the technical aspects. The provincials will be held at RIM Park in Waterloo. “It’s a really educational pastime. I think we’re lucky to have kids we can learn so much from here at Wellesley,” Donofrio said. Teacher Jacalyn Beck said they were responsible for shooting, editing, adding music and titles to the video. They’ll get to see last year’s video to have an idea of the complexity of what the judges are looking for.
Specials from March 9th – March 14th
with trade in
599.95
$
• Six automatic buttonholes
• Needle-threader built-in
SUV1108
were found in cages “adjacent to the shed,” Lillico would not specify if that meant they were being kept outside in the cold. According to Environment Canada, the wind chill at 5 a.m. March 2 in the Waterloo Region was approximately minus-15. The cause of the fire is not considered suspicious, Lillico said. “We believe it was started from the electrical lights that were used to keep the area warm. ... It is still under investigation.”
Skills: Working with robots and learning to adjust on the fly
WINTER
Sale E 21st March
• 8 utility stitches
just getting to the fire was difficult, Lillico said. “The snow was waist deep and there were objects in the snow as well, so it wasn’t an easy task to get back to the shed that was quite a ways back from the house. It was a bit of a challenge to get back there. It was 5 in the morning and it was pitch black, so it wasn’t easy, but the crews stretched the line back to it and immediately rescued the other five dogs.” The township’s animal control officer investigated
22.49
$
REG. PRICE
$24.99 ea.
Stock up on your St. Patrick’s Day meal fixings with this week’s specials!
3031 Lobsinger Line, Heidelberg 519-699-4590 Mon. - Wed. 8-6; Thurs. - Fri. 8-8; Saturday 7:30-5 Visit us online at www.stemmlermeats.ca
NEWS | 5
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
New court date for Cowan Former Woolwich mayor Todd Cowan’s first court appearance at the Ontario Court of Justice in Kitchener on Tuesday resulted in another court date scheduled for March 24. He’s charged with fraud under $5,000 and breach of trust in relation to his expense claims while serving on township and regional councils. It’s alleged he double-billed more than $2,700 for mileage, meals, and conferences, which he claims was an unintentional accounting error.
Reprieve for transfer stations
The rural transfer stations earned a reprieve until year’s end as part of Waterloo Regional council’s approval of its 2015 budget on Wednesday night. Taxes will rise by another 2.58 per cent, above the inflation rate.
The transfer stations in the townships had been scheduled to close at the end of the month. The current, muchreduced hours will remain for the duration of the year. Council instructed waste management staff to work with private operators to see if a handoff of services can be arranged. Woolwich Township has been especially vocal about retaining the much-used facility in Elmira, pushing for the region to keep the station open pending sale to a private operator. Timing is a key issue, as the two private companies that have expressed an interest in taking over the facility have stressed the need to keep the site in operation during the transition stage, which could take a considerable amount of time. Along with the time the region would need to clear the way for something like the sale of the land, the new operator would also face regulatory hurdles from the provincial Ministry of the Environment. The region has been slow to act, expressing concerns that it will lose
revenue if private operators take the waste outside the region.
Contract awarded for Floradale Rd. culvert project Plans to replace a Floradale Road culvert just north of the village moved ahead this week as Woolwich council awarded a $728,000 contract to Xterra Construction Inc. The township will pay just shy of $50,000 to AECOM Canada Ltd. to administer the project. Work is expected to start on or about June 22, wrapping up by mid-September. The work was to have been carried out last year, but the discovery under the structure of nesting cliff swallows, protected under the Migratory Birds Convention Act, pushed back the timeline. The contractor is expected to install bird netting this month to prevent a reoccurrence of the problem, director of engineering and planning Dan Kennaley told councillors meeting
Tuesday night. Since that time, he added, the structure has been downgraded from a bridge to a culvert based on a technical distinction. Deteriorating, the structure’s load limit has been reduced to 10 tonnes. A study carried out by engineering consultants deemed replacing it more cost effective than rehabilitating it. Doing nothing would eventually force the closure of the narrow bridge, which crosses a stream about 550 metres north of Florapine Road. The motion passed by council also brings changes to the township’s traffic and parking bylaw. The speed limit will be reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h on Floradale Road from 453 metres south of Sandy Hills Drive to 721m north of Florapine Road in the vicinity of the Floradale Parochial School. Likewise the speed limit will be reduced from 80 km/h to 50 km/h on Floradale Road from 721m north of Florapine Road to 506m north of Florapine Road.
POLICE BLOTTER
Police seeking male suspect following bank robbery in Drayton canine and Wellington County the forensic OPP are searching for identificaa lone male suspect foltion units lowing a robbery March assisted 2 at the Royal Bank in with the Drayton. investigaThe man entered tion. the bank about 4:48 Anyone p.m. and presented a with inweapon. He assaulted formation an employee and made regarding off with an undisclosed this crime amount of cash. is asked The suspect is deto call the scribed as approximately 5’8” tall with a Video capture of Drayton suspect. Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310thin build. He was wearing 1122. Alternatively, you a black and dark green may call Crime Stoppers spring coat, a black toque at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or and scarf, and navy blue submit a tip on-line at www. sport pants. He was last crimestoppersguelphwelseen running eastbound on lington.com. You may be eliMain Street East. gible for a reward from Crime The West Region OPP Stoppers of up to $2,000. Emergency Response Team,
F E B R U ARY 2 2
1:47 PM | The Elmira Curling Club on Eldale Road reported a theft of cash from the premises. Police have no suspects at this time.
9:09 AM | A small business on Scotch Line Road in Woolwich Township reported the theft of cash from the premises.
F E B R U ARY 2 3
4:40 PM | Tools were taken from a vehicle on Golf Course Road in Conestogo. The items were valued at $2,000. The investigation is ongoing.
7:45 AM | A snowplow operating in the vicinity of Arthur Road and Meadowview Court in Heidelberg struck a hydro pole.
NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
4:00 PM | Members of the Central Division crime management team, and Rural Division officers executed a search warrant on a residential property in the village of Baden. As a result, a quantity of stolen metal was seized which police believe to be linked to a break-in at a metal fabrication business in New Hamburg. A 42-year-old Baden man is facing numerous charges including ‘break, enter and theft,’ ‘possession for the purpose of trafficking stolen property’ and ‘possession of break-in tools.’ The investigation is continuing and more arrests are expected.
in Waterloo. The vehicle had sustained very minor damage. Arrangements have been made to return both vehicles to their owners. MAR C H 2
F E B R U ARY 2 8
5:15 AM | Wellesley firefighters and Waterloo Regional Police responded to 2995 Manser Rd. in Wellesley Township for a report of a shed fire. A 10’-by-10’ aluminum shed on the property was fully engulfed in flames. Wellesley firefighters extinguished the fire and nobody was injured as a result. This shed was used to house beagles. One dog perished as a result of the fire. The fire was determined to be accidental.
12:00 PM | Two pickup trucks that were reported stolen from Perth County rural residences on February 25 were recovered. Waterloo Regional Police located the 2007 Ford F150 pickup truck in a residential subdivision at the northwest corner of Waterloo (a block from Laurel Creek Conservation Area). The vehicle had sustained minor damage and items were removed from the vehicle. On Saturday morning, regional police located the 2008 GMC Sierra pickup truck on King Street, south of Erb Street
10:22 PM | A Rural Division sergeant on patrol in the St. Clements area observed a green pickup truck a block away from him and observed the vehicle swerving back and forth in the westbound lane travel over the centerline of Herrgott Road. The vehicle was stopped and the male driver was found to be extremely impaired. The driver blew three times the legal limit. The 39-yearold St. Clements man was arrested and charged with ‘impaired driving’ and ‘over 80.’
chance to review proposal at next week’s council meeting from | Cover
of the eight municipalities – the region plus the seven lower-tier communities – to coordinate their efforts. Using tax dollars, they hired a consultant. The resultant report from Malone Given Parsons Ltd. called for the creation of a central office for economic development working with existing municipal programs, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and Canada’s Technology Triangle (CTT) towards common growth. At this week’s council meeting, township CAO David Brenneman argued in favour of a “cohesive” strategy throughout the region. While admitting there are concerns about the lack of details and accountability, he stressed the new strategy was a work in progress that would eventually pay off in the form of more growth in the region. He brought in CTT chair Ian MacNaughton to bolster his point. MacNaughton, too, argued for a coordinated approach to economic development, pointing to the recent closure of the Schneider’s plant in Kitchener, with owner Maple Leaf Foods moving production to Hamilton. “We need to bring our A game to the future.” While CTT has spent years promoting Waterloo Region as a location for direct foreign investment – building links with Germany, the Netherlands and, more recently, China – the group’s limited budget and reach made it eager to be part of a larger project, he added. CTT’s operations could be rolled into the new WREDC. Kevin Martin of Martin’s Family Fruit Farm in St. Jacobs, who serves on the advisory committee for the regional group, also praised the economic development strategy. The benefits will be spread out across the
region, he said. “We may not see every little benefit coming back to us as a township.” That theme was picked up by Brenneman, too, who pointed to the “collective good” rather than just what Woolwich is going to get out of this effort. That was a concern for Shantz, however, who pointed out the report appears to focus on the hightech sector. “How is Woolwich going to benefit from that?” For Merlihan, there was no indication of what the township or other municipalities would be getting in return for their investment in a report that was long on platitudes and short on details and justification for committing millions of dollars. “It had very little substance,” he said of the report. “I support the concept. But this report, I’m really dissatisfied with.” If ultimately approved, the WREDC plan would be the first joint economic development strategy across the region. Some of the corporation’s responsibilities suggested by the Malone Given Parsons study include implementing a regional economic strategy, doing regional data collection and analysis, and doing regional-scale marketing. Another recommendation calls for a change to the provincial Municipal Act to allow the region a say in land development. Currently under the act, only individual municipalities have the jurisdiction to buy, develop and sell land for industrial and commercial purposes. Woolwich’s share in getting this going is $25,000 this year, $35,000 next and $50,000 in 2017 and 2018. The township spent $10,000 last year in the run-up phase. Councillors are expected to discuss the plan again on March 10.
Windows 7 Laptops
Dr. Stephen Morris Optometrist PHONE:
F E B R U ARY 2 4
WREDC: Woolwich has another
PHONE:
519-669-0012 519-669-0879 Evening appointments Available
63 ARTHUR STREET S., ELMIRA
ONLY $
199
Krista Sandelli Jessica OWNER/RMT Zantinge RMT
Julie Wemp RMT
· 8 Therapists Available · Evening Appointments · Deep Tissue, Relaxation, Sports Injury, Prenatal Massage · Reflexology
2 Locations to serve you! 112 Bonnie Cres. Elmira, ON
920 St. David St. N. Fergus, ON
Call us today! 519-669-5551 www.realitybytescomputers.com
· Hot Stone Massage Julie-Maria Krista Bauman Lindsay Plantz Steph Gaudet Schroth RMT RMT RMT RMT
· Gift Certificates Available
69 Arthur St. S., Elmira
In the old Clock Tower Building 519-669-4425
6 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
JOE MERLIHAN PUBLISHER STEVE KANNON EDITOR
COMMENT
DONNA RUDY SALES MANAGER
SCOTT BARBER REPORTER
WHITNEY NEILSON
PATRICK MERLIHAN PRODUCTION MANAGER
JAKE STALLARD GRAPHIC DESIGN
REPORTER PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NUMBER 1004840 | ISSN 12039578
Our view / editorial
The VIEW from here
A good buy? Not unless you know what you’re getting Woolwich council’s endorsement this week of a new Waterloo Region economic development plan is troubling on a number of fronts. Foremost is the fact the proposal is long on platitudes and completely absent of any numbers to justify the township’s rush to commit $160,000 over the next four years. It’s possible the effort, spearheaded by a new venture called the Waterloo Region Economic Development Corporation, is a good idea, but nothing in the report given to councillors suggests this is a worthwhile investment. Proof? There is none. As Coun. Patrick Merlihan noted, if the report under consideration was a business plan the region was taking to a bank, there’s little reason to believe a loan would be forthcoming. In this case, a $2-million loan, the total annual contribution of the seven municipalities plus the region’s share when the full bill comes due in 2017. There’s nothing in the document, compiled by the chief administrative officers of each of the eight municipalities, that demonstrates there will be a single benefit. No indication, let alone assurances, that the money spent will be returned to municipal coffers in the form of new taxes. At the very minimum, the residents footing the bill for this unproven exercise have to be guaranteed a return on their investment. Not some nebulous benefit, but tangible, cash benefits. For Woolwich, that would mean replacing the $25,000 the township is on the hook for this year, $35,000 next year and $50,000 in each of 2017 and 2018. Not surprisingly, the topic wasn’t even broached by those councillors who supported the scheme sight unseen. While the report spoke of measuring efficacy and metrics, no specifics were offered. That some councillors approved the plan under those circumstances says they’ve learned nothing from Woolwich’s own multi-year foray into economic development, where hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent to little avail. Locally, too, there have been no numbers to support the money spent, let alone to justify the continued expenditures. To the chagrin of residents concerned about accountability from the township, there was no mention of any of that from those councillors prepared to spend yet more money ... again without any assurances. All of this comes as Woolwich can already expect the ballyhooed industrial growth simply by virtue of having some of the last available land – as with the region, there’s no shortage of opportunities today or tomorrow. Blindly dumping money into unproven schemes is not a habit citizens would care to encourage in the township’s administration. The same applies at the regional level, where taxpayers are also on the hook for the local share of the $900,000 a year council there is prepared to gamble on an unsubstantiated venture. Wellesley residents, whose council has also endorsed the plan without any supporting documentation, can take some consolation in the fact that their direct costs will be $5,000 this year, ramping up to $20,000 by full rollout in two years’ time. Having avoided taking on an ersatz economic development office of its own, and not overly blessed with business opportunities, Wellesley is playing a relatively small bet for a potential gain. Even a modest one would warrant the move. Still, council there has fallen victim to the same vague generalizations and banalities – the worst kind of rationalization for economic development – that has ensnared Woolwich and the other municipalities, none of whom has questioned the motives or conclusions of those selling a pig in a poke.
Though short on details and financial justification, the new WRED plan seems to have a few politicians and bureaucrats ready to gamble on it ... with your money. WORLD view / GWYNNE DYER
Paranoia and plotting over a murder in Moscow WORLD AFFAIRS “Every time I call (my mother),” said Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov recently, “she gives me a talking-to: ‘When will you stop being rude about Putin? He’ll kill you.’” Now Nemtsov is dead: four bullets in the back as he was walking home in Moscow with his girlfriend on Friday night. The protest march against Putin and the war in Ukraine that he was planning to lead last Sunday became a memorial march instead. So, two questions. Did President Vladimir Putin order the assassination? And if he didn’t, then who did, and why? The hit was carried out with professional skill only three minutes’ walk from Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral and the Kremlin, in an area that is infested day and night by militia (police) on constant alert to break up demonstrations. You could put together a feature-length film with the
footage from the countless CCTV cameras that tracked Nemtsov’s walk across the square and down to the bridge where he died. It took accurate intelligence to know where Nemtsov would be on Friday night, and serious organisation and planning to carry out the killing in such a heavily policed area. That points to members of the military or security forces, though not necessarily to ones who were acting on official orders. Because the first thing to say about this murder is that it did not serve Putin’s purposes. No doubt the Russian president disliked and despised Nemtsov, but neither he nor any other opposition leader posed any threat to Putin’s power. Thanks in large part to his seizure of Crimea and his military intervention in eastern Ukraine, Putin is currently enjoying an 85 per cent approval rating with the Russian public. Why risk upsetting this happy relationship with the first public killing of a senior political figure in more than a decade? It’s much more likely that the killing was carried out by serving or former
soldiers or intelligence officers who took it upon themselves to eliminate an “anti-patriotic” politician who condemned “Putin’s War” in Ukraine. In the superheated atmosphere of nationalist paranoia that currently prevails in Russia, such people could easily imagine that they were doing just what Putin secretly wanted. Putin is too clever to want that, and immediately condemned the killing as “vile and cynical.” It was a curious choice of words: “vile,” of course, but why “cynical”? The reason became clear when various senior regime members began hinting that the murder was a “provocation” by the Western intelligence services or even by Nemtsov’s own opposition colleagues, killing him to stimulate dissent and bring the Russian state into disrepute. This murder will have no permanent impact either on Russia’s internal politics or on its relations with the rest of the world. The paranoid style is now so deeply entrenched in Russian politics that people who support Putin (i.e. most people) will either believe the nonsense
about Nemtsov’s murder being a “provocation,” or be privately glad that Putin acts so decisively (as they imagine) to protect Russia from its myriad enemies. As for the rest of the world (or at least the “western” part of the world), it has already written Putin off as a man you can do business with. The Russian leader is, in many Westerners’ eyes, an expansionist warlord who can only be contained by sanctions and threats. It may even take a new Cold War to stop him. Paranoia, alas, is a communicable disease. The Western narrative that seeks to explain how, in less than a year, we have arrived at a point where the United States is contemplating supplying heavy weapons to Ukraine to kill Russian troops, has several large gaps. The first is that the revolution on the Maidan in Kiev last winter overthrew a legitimately elected Ukrainian president only a year before the next elections were due. Putin initially accepted that outcome (with the elections moved up to only DYER | 8
COMMENT | 7
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Their view / question OF THE WEEK
The region takes half of your taxes, is it worth it?
»»Jay Newman
»»Alexandra Leigh
»»Mike Brouwer
»»Tom Hurley
»»Shaun Darcy
“I like what the region is doing with the LRT.”
“Taxes are too high.”
“The burden is too much considering what they provide.”
“I don’t think they provide good bang for the buck.”
“I think the region takes more than their fair share.”
“This murder will have no permanent impact either on Russia’s internal politics or on its relations with the rest of the world.” Gwynne Dyer | 6 HIS view / STEVE KANNON
We’re following in the partisan, paranoid footsteps of the U.S. political scene EDITOR'S NOTES Are we getting dumber? More specifically, are Americans getting dumber, with Canadians following in their wake? If we’re buying into the unjustified paranoia about terrorism, we’d be forced to say ‘yes.’ We’re seeing here some of what’s been playing out south of the border for some time. There’s nothing like watching American politics for sheer entertainment. Unfortunately, it’s more amusement than it is the thoughtful political philosophy of Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson. Yet like the accident on the side of the highway, we can’t help but gawk. As Canadians, we have the luxury of watching at a distance. The sniping between Republicans and Democrats goes on 24 hours a day, every day. It’s fodder for everyone from news channels through the most ardent thanks-Obama-forevery-evil blog.
What’s playing out next door could be a version of our future. Dumb. Partisan. Bereft of policies. And the opposite of an engaged citizenry, despite the populist trappings. Yes, Americans are angry. And scared. They have every right to be, given the state of their economy. But the anger is directed at the wrong targets. Supporters of the Tea Party movement who vote for fringe candidates do so in direct opposition to their own best interests. There’s the obvious stuff – the so-called grassroots organization was created and funded by the billionaire Koch family, which has been working for decades to undermine the public good for its own benefit. Then there’s the underlying issue of corporatism and consumerism-trumpscitizenship, far more difficult to get on the agenda, let alone resolve. The problems in the U.S., and to a lesser extent in Canada, are complex. Partisan bickering and sloganeering won’t help. Apparently, that’s the best we can do. That’s why we have pundits yelling on
HOW TO REACH US
Soft on terror. Weak-kneed. They are listening to “elites” nattering about personal privacy at a time of menace. Only we can keep the country safe. For this government, the narrative is heaven-sent,” writes Globe and Mail columnist Jeffrey Simpson in a recent piece, noting the government is shifting gears on a plan to campaign on the economy. “The dollar tanked. The federal budget got postponed. Economic growth figures were revised downward. New Statistics Canada figures showed meagre job growth in 2014. New jobs in January were largely part-time. Full-time employment fell that month. “The economic news was bad politically for the government. Then along came terror.” That was echoed in a piece by the Toronto Star’s Tim Harper. “His opponents rightly accuse the prime minister of pandering to fear and divisiveness on those fronts, but Harper is no longer governing in 2015, he is campaigning, and his goal is winning votes, not practicing any form of
statesmanship,” he writes of the prime minister. “He has exploited fear to further his political fortunes.” Partisan, divisive politics. Not for the betterment of the country, but simply to help Harper try to hang on to power, no matter what it costs the rest of us. It’s the same reason he and his minions continually mislead Canadians about the governments’ fiscal records. Here, we turn this week to the Globe’s Martin Lawrence “Under the Liberals, there were nine straight surpluses beginning in 1996. Under the Conservatives, a string of seven deficits. On the pertinent matter of national debt (as per any Greek comparisons), it went down significantly under the Liberals but has gone up by more than $160-billion under Mr. Harper. The Liberals posted not a single trade deficit while the Harper Conservatives have had one practically every year. The Conservatives have been more impressive on tax cuts, although the Liberals did bring in one of the largest in history. On employment,
it’s no contest – the Liberals in a walk,” he writes. “Studies show that economic growth has been on average more than two per cent higher under Liberal governments than under Conservative ones. On budget balancing, the Tory historical record is one to run from.” Yet many Canadians still buy into the myth. It’s the kind of reasoning that has Americans believing Republicans are all about smaller government and fiscal responsibility, when just the opposite is true. Substitute Canadians and Conservatives here and you can see we’re in the same boat, albeit without some of the worst fundamentalist dogma coming out of the States. If voters are so polarized that they can’t see the obvious – they’ve truly drunk deeply of the Kool-Aid – then Americans can never have a rational debate about how to move forward. Of course, that assumes real change is actually a possibility. Keeping the public occupied with mindkannon | 8
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 Letters
TV. Ersatz politicians using homey platitudes. And issues reduced to the lowest common denominator. The crazy-making rhetoric never seems to subside, even after the seeminglyconstant election cycle. Such is the polarization in the circus tent that is U.S. politics. That said, we have a federal government here intent on the worst kind of Karl Rove politicking. Stephen Harper is the great divider, disparaging those who disagree with him – i.e. the majority of Canadians – and spreading fear as a means to both distract from his government’s felonies and corrupt practices while hoping to sell an alreadydebunked law-and-order agenda. Throw in a sprinkle of military jingoism and run up the terrorism hysteria, and we’ve got a picture that many of us have seen before. “Terror at home. Terror abroad. Tough on crime. Tough on terror. Fear stalking the land. Threats. Bad guys. It’s a dangerous world out there, folks, and only the Conservatives can protect us. The other parties?
Letters to the Editor should be exclusive to The Observer. Include name, address and daytime phone number. Unsigned letters must contact Editor for publishing consideration. Keep letters under 350 words. Letters may be edited for length and clarity. This newspaper declines announcements, poetry and thank-you letters.
Editorial
Advertising
Production
Publisher
519.669.5790 EXT 103
519.669.5790 EXT 104
519.669.5790 EXT 105
519.669.5790 EXT 107
editor@woolwichobserver.com
ads@woolwichobserver.com
production@woolwichobserver.com
publisher@woolwichobserver.com
Copyright The entire contents of The Observer and online edition are protected by copyright. No portion thereof is to be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the specific permission of the publisher. Reproduction rights can be obtained from ACCESS COPYRIGHT located at 1 Young St., 1900, Toronto, ON M5E 1E5 | 416.868.1621
Press complaints & associations The Observer is a member of the Ontario Press Council which considers complaints against member newspapers. For more information contact www.ontpress.com. The Observer is a member of the Ontario Community Newspaper Association [CCNA], Canadian Community Newspaper Association and The Greater KW Chamber of Commerce.
8 | COMMENT
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
The MONITOR
VERBATIM
THIS WEEK IN HISTORY
17th Annual Teddy Government Waste Award winners: Federal: Former MP and mayor of London Joe Fontana for criminal convictions for defrauding taxpayers – and still collecting his pension; Provincial: Ontario’s Ministry of Energy for “smart meters” fiasco; Municipal: Halifax councillor Brad Johns for buying a $25,000 robotic Christmas tree.
“I think it has shifted the national narrative. The go-to narrative in the last 20 or 30 years for parents was, ‘Take your eyes off your kid for even a second and he’ll be snatched.’ What the Meitiv case did was pivot the story to: ‘Give your kid one second of freedom and the government will arrest you.’”
As Woolwich and Wellesley township residents dug themselves out from yet another dumping of snow this week, many parents were forced to find daytime childcare when the school boards cancelled buses Monday and again Wednesday. The most recent board-wide cancellation marked the area’s ninth this year, up from two each in 2006 and 2007. The previous record was seven in the mid-1980s.
»»Canadian Taxpayers Federation
»»New York journalist Lenore Skenazy on the case of Maryland parents Danielle and
»»From the Mar. 8, 2008 edition of The Observer
Alexander Meitiv, who were cited for neglect by Child Protective Services for allowing their children, 10 and 6, to walk to a park unsupervised
Dyer: Putin not likely to have
National view
been directly involved in murder
FROM | 6
one month in the future), which was brokered by the European Union. In other words, he accepted the illegal overthrow of the proMoscow president, Viktor Yanukovych, so long as free elections followed rapidly. Quite possibly because he thought Yanukovych’s supporters in the east might boost him back into the presidency again. That same thought may also be why the revolutionaries in Kiev broke the deal and insisted on Yanukovych’s immediate removal from power. It was only then that Putin concluded that he was faced with a Western plot to whisk Ukraine into NATO and create a strategic and political threat on Russia’s southern frontier.
There was no such plot: NATO has not the slightest desire to assume responsibility for the defence of Ukraine. But there was a great deal of open Western rejoicing at Russia’s discomfiture, and Putin lost his customary cool and responded with the annexation of Crimea and then the encouragement of pro-Russian rebels in southeastern Ukraine. “Absolute power corrupts absolutely,” said Lord Acton. “All great men are bad.” In that sense, Putin is a bad man, and more dangerous for being both paranoid and increasingly isolated. (His circle of advisers has dwindled to a handful of hawks.) But he is not planning to conquer even Ukraine, let alone the rest of the former Soviet empire, and he almost certainly did not order Nemtsov’s death.
kannon: It’s all about the
spin, not the actual truth FROM | 7
FarmH2o.com Residential and Country
Iron Specialist Since 1995 in Rural Ontario
INTRODUCING
Filox Systems
Breads
White, multi grain, whole wheat, cheese, raisin, dinner rolls, hot dog buns, hamburger buns, cinnamon buns, chelsea buns, cream buns
Pies
Blueberry, cherry, apple, peach, raspberry, strawberry, elderberry
Apple dumplings, Meat Pies, Cookies, Tarts, Muffins We can supply baked or frozen
• Our frozen yeast doughs require thawing prior to proofing and baking • Frozen Pies dumplings cookies muffins and loaves should be baked without thawing
WHOLESALE & RETAIL Hours: Tues. - Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
221 Katherine St. N., Winterbourne | 519.664.0556
Removes up to 1700 ppm iron. Including sulphates as well. No more odors or staining .
25% OFF RESULTS
GUARAN TEED!
Exclusive low pressure vortec tanks for wells.
PEROXIDE REPLACEMENT $AVING YOU THOUSANDS!!
FREE REVERSE OSMOSIS
DRINKING SYSTEM INCLUDED* Call for details
*
less partisanship, petty bickering and, above all, pop-culture distractions works out just fine for those who are happy with the status quo: the real power elites who have no interest in changing a good thing. Powerful corporate interests spend millions to influence public policy, from fighting public health care to quashing environmental controls. Their efforts pay off. Need proof? Look at what’s happened after the
financial services industry brought the economy to its knees: There have been no real reforms and we’ve seen a return to business as usual – huge profits, big bonuses – even as unemployment remains high, personal debt soars and small businesses struggle. And who’s footing the bill for the massive debt? Not the elite – they’ll get tax cuts – but the average taxpayer, including the diehard supporters of those creating the mess in the first place.
BEAT the RUSH
PRE-SEASON TUNE UP We repair ALL MAKES of Mowers, Tillers, & Tractors
FREE
Call Today!
226-808-6838
www.iqrespiratory.com
A+ BBB Rating!
Sales & Service for all makes of air filter devices for the home or office
5 4790 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein,
519-669-2192 www.efsaudersales.ca
ON FARM SAFETY | 9
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
FARM SAFETY DON’T LEARN SAFETY RULES BY ACCIDENT. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED & BE PREPARED.
2015 CANADIAN AGRICULTURAL SAFETY WEEK | MARCH 15-21, 2015
FOR INFORMATION ON BUSINESSES THAT CAN HELP WITH YOUR FARMING NEEDS | PAGES 9-11
ATV’s are useful and fun on the farm; safety precautions a must You know your farm like the back of your hand; but the same can’t be said for many of your workers, especially if they are young, new, or returning after a time away. And that can put them at risk of injury. So how do you convey details like hazards on the farm to them in a comprehensive and consistent way? An orientation program can help. Start with the basics. Review harassment and working alone policies, basic safety rules, and restrictio Economical, versatile and fun, all-terrain vehicles have long been indispensable tools on Canadian farms and ranches. But as the size, power and popularity of ATVs has increased, so too has the potential for serious injuries.
Why not review the facts about ATVs and make sure you and your family are riding safe? “It doesn’t take much to roll an ATV,” warns Canada Safety Council’s resident off-road expert Mike Prud’homme. “And there’s nothing fun about an ATV rollover. If you have 600 pounds plus gear falling on you, it’s going to be hard to push off.” If you use an ATV for work or recreation, follow these safety precautions to reduce your risk: 1. Train up. A few hours in a Canada Safety Council ATV course could save your life.
NEW THEME FOR 2015 Introducing...
Be the Difference! Producers, farm families, workers, communities, agribusiness retailers, health care professionals and schools can all agree that farm safety is important. So this year, CASA and CFA are celebrating Be the Difference! presented by Farm Credit Canada. Be the Difference! encourages individuals, organizations and communities to Be the Difference and make Canada’s farms a safe place to work and live.
see next page | 10
ELECTRIC MOTORS | GENERATORS | AUTOMATION CONTROL
95 Southfield Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1842
Eldale Veterinary Clinic Providing Emergency and Preventative Health Care for your Horses, Pets and Farm Livestock 150 Church St. W | Elmira | Phone: 519-669-5672
Discover the many reasons to choose The Co-operators as your farm insurer. From insurance plans made especially for farmers to 24/7 claims service, protect your life’s work with the right coverage for your farming operation. Call us today!
Allen Morrison Allen Morrison Insurance Inc. 25 Industrial Drive Elmira, Ontario allen_morrison@cooperators.ca (519) 669-2632
www.cooperators.ca
The Co-operators is the leading Canadian-owned multi-product insurance company.
Home Auto Life Investments Group Business Farm Travel
10 | ON FARM SAFETY
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
from | 09
2. Suit up. Wear a helmet, eye protection, long pants, long sleeves, gloves and non-skid shoes for every ride. 3. Ride the right size. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Adult-sized ATVs are not appropriate for children under 16. 4. Ride by day. Even on familiar terrain, low light and reduced visibility will increase the chances of a mishap. Park your ATV after dark and in poor weather. 5. Never take passengers. Most ATVs are not designed for doubling. Do not attach passenger seats to your ATV. When using ATVs for farm chores, be extra cautious when hauling or towing. 1. Lighten up. Check your owner’s manual for load limits and resist the temptation to over load. Use proper tie-downs to secure your load and properly distribute the weight. Weight distribution is extremely important. Any load will affect the performance and stability of the vehicle, so adjust your driving accordingly. 2. Don’t alter your ATV. Adding after-market passenger seats or other implements will affect the weight distribution and stability of the machine, increasing the likelihood of tip-over and rollover accidents. Go over standard operating procedures and other farm-specific practices and procedures such as livestock handling, farm vehicle usage, equipment servicing and safe zones where children or pedestrians may be present.
Share specific hazards associated with your farm operation. Let workers know how they will learn about safety issues and how they can bring concerns to management. How often will safety meetings be held? Who will conduct inspections? How are incidents handled and reported? Clarify who should be notified for each specific situation. Go over PPE requirements and expectations and provide training on their proper use, care and maintenance. Do you require safe footwear, respiratory, hearing, or other forms of protection to be worn? And share your emergency contacts, locations of emergency equipment such as first aid kits, extinguishers, eye wash stations, muster points, rescue plans and emergency responsibilities with all new workers. Emergency response protocols should be a critical component of your orientation program. When it comes to orientation, young workers (16 to 18 year olds) need the most support. They tend to generalize their skills from one task to another, feel they are immortal and “can’t be hurt,” and believe they possess the size and strength to overcome any problem. Don’t take their word for it. Make sure to train, supervise and coach them in a way that matches them with suitable job tasks. New workers need a different approach, with a focus on on-the-job training. Don’t assume that they will know how to do something on your farm, even if they have performed a similar task at another operation. Every farm is different, so review all relevant points with new workers while they are actually doing a specific job task. Then evaluate their capability to perform the work according to your expectations. O
Mar-Dale
Hatchery Ltd.
Transport (1985) Ltd. Order Buying of Stockers Livestock Trucking 519-669-3392 Floradale, ON
“Quality Chicks in Brown Egg Breeds”
The Quality You Demand, the Service You Deserve FARM | TRUCK | INDUSTRIAL | ON-THE FARM SERVICE
35 Howard Ave., Elmira | 519.669.3232
Wallenstein • 519-669-1440
519-669-3388 • 1-877-711-9677
Fax 519-664-3491
TF: 1-800-265-8858 L: 519-669-5143 www.wfs.ca
A family tradition since 1921
R.R.#1 West Montrose | www.grandridge.ca
Tel. 519-664-2291
Feeding Success
• Quality Drainage Systems • Backhoe Service
Local & Long Distance Flatbeds • 53’ Stepdecks
80 Northside Drive St. Jacobs, Ontario N0B 2N0 www.freyshatchery.com
CLEAN FIELD SERVICES INC. Nutrient Management Plans Seed-Fertilizer-Custom Spraying R.R. #2, Drayton, Ontario | N0G 1P0 Tel. 519-638-3457 | Fax. 519-638-8966 | cleanfld@hsfx.ca
“Family Owned Since 1938”
7293 Line 86 Wallenstein Ph: 519-669-5176
ON FARM SAFETY | 11
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
PRESENTED BY
Tractor Safety March is an excellent time to run a pre-season safety check of all machinery and equipment on your farm. Getting the tractor out of the barn in early spring -- especially if you live in a cold climate -- is nearly as big an event as the first sprouts in the garden or buds on the trees. If your farm tools and equipment have been mostly in storage during the winter months, check out this list of basic tips to get them ready for the growing season. Tractors and Equipment Checklist •If you haven’t already, adjust brakes, clutches and drives, according to the manual. Make sure they’re in working order.
•Ensure steering, ignition and exhaust system are in top condition. •Check and/or change the fluids (differential, transmission and hydraulic fluids oil etc.) to ensure purity and removal of water that may have condensed. •Check the cooling system. Look for cracks from freezing and leaks. •Check all rubber hoses and plastic parts like fans for cracks. •Belts may become brittle and crack. Replace them if they are worn. Check that belts and pulleys are at the proper tension. This reduces slippage. •Check that intake guards and shields on grain augers secure. •Check that all power take-off units have shields and are back in place if they were removed.
FORAGE KING
3950 Steffler Rd. Elmira, Ontario N3B 2Z3 Phone: 519-664-2752 Fax: 519-664-3695 Email: sales@mkmartin.ca
“Quality Farm Equipment” Since 1969
Drayton Elora
-A complete line of quality feeds for Dairy, Beef, Swine, Poultry and Horses. -Animal health products -Custom nutritional programs
Listowel Clifford
519-638-3008 1-800-263-9818
Conestogo Tel: 519-664-2237 Mount Forest Tel: 519-323-1880 Tavistock Tel: 519-655-3777 Toll Free: 1-800-265-2203
FLORADALE FEED MILL LIMITED Finest in feeds and service for over 50 years! FLORADALE FEED MILL LIMITED Finest in feeds and service for over 50 years!
Bus 519.669.5478 • Toll Free 1.800.265.6126 www.ffmltd.com
Bonnie’s Chick Hatchery Ltd. Day-old chicks • Started pullets Broilers • Ready-to-lay Turkeys • Ducks • Geese
Bus: 519-698-9930 Res: 519-698-2213
265 Katherine St. S. 1km south of Winterbourne
www.cribit.com • 519-664-3701
18 Arthur St. N. • 519-669-2561
Serving you for over 100 Years 1145 Printery Road, St. Jacobs, Ontario T 519.664.2263 | F 519.664.3369 www.stjacobsprintery.com
Licensed Grain Elevator Crop Inputs and Services Pioneer Brand Products R.R.#1 Waterloo
519-744-4941
Toll Free (In Canada 1-888-569-8843) • Fax: 1-519-669-5982 Web: www.martinmills.com
“Proud to be part of the community.”
PO Box 130, Elmira • 519-669-5171
12 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
SPORTS gymnastics / national competition
Elmira’s Shuh captures pair of silvers at Canada Winter Games scott barber The Canada Winter Games were a high flying success for Elmira’s Nathan Shuh. The Grade 12 student at Elmira District Secondary School won two silver medals in trampoline at the prestigious competition in Prince George, B.C. on February 24-25. “Honestly, I was just happy to be there, let alone to come away with two silver medals,” Shuh said. “I knew we had a good shot with the team (event) because Ontario is a very deep province in trampoline, but individually, I didn’t know what to expect because there were so many talented athletes taking part.” The Canada Winter Games pits the nation’s top athletes against each other, province versus province, every four years. Shuh, who trains at the K-W Airborne gym in Kitchener, earned his spot on team Ontario with a strong showing at the qualifier last December.
Now, with his outstanding performance at the Winter Games, Shuh has jumped up to a whole new level. “I was really over the moon with my performance, because just ten minutes before I competed my finals optional, I put it together for the first time, because I saw the Quebecer athletes and realized that they were really good and I needed to step up my game.” During the training phases of the competition, Shuh added a triple front flip element to his program, making the routine “by far the hardest I had ever competed.” And it paid off. After finishing the preliminary flights in third, Shuh scored a 35.700 in the finals to earn the silver. “It was a progression through the games because we had two training days and I started working on (the new routine) the first day and little by little the routine started evolving,” Shuh explained. “I finally got through the routine in
With a four-game sweep of the Brampton Bombers, the Elmira Sugar Kings are headed to the second round of the Greater Ontario Hockey League Junior B playoffs. After taking the top spot in the Midwestern Confer-
ence in the regular season standings with a sparkling 38-7-4 record, the Kings got the last-seeded Bombers in the first round. Despite taking the series handily by a combined score of 21-8, Kings head coach Jeff Flanagan is looking for more consistency from his team going for-
Trampoline gymnast Nathan Shuh added a pair of silver medals to his trophy case at the Canada Winter Games in Prince George, British Columbia Feb. 24-25. [scott barber / the observer] from across the country a special experience, Shuh the warm up period before and the chance to attend said. I competed it. Considering the closing ceremony. Spending the week in how much time I had been “It was really cool to get British Columbia afforded working on it, I don’t think to watch the other athletes the 17-year-old the opI could have done it much portunity to watch other better than I did.” medalist | 14 events, get to know athletes Overall, the games were
ward. “We thought we were up and down, with some points where we felt we were playing very well and others where we didn’t think we were playing the way that we should be,” he said. “In all the games we played very well in the first period, but we weren’t
always able to transfer as many of our scoring chances into goals as we would have liked. So then, that seemed to give Brampton a bit of a jump start and as the games went on we kind of dropped off our intensity level and we weren’t attentive to the little things like passing, executing our
systems and playing good defence.” After taking the series opener 3-1 on February 25 at home, the Kings destroyed the Bombers 10-2 on the road February 27. They followed that up with a 3-2 victory march
INTERIOR & EXTERIOR EXCEEDING ALL YOUR EXPECTATIONS
519.669.2577 | 26 PARK AVE. W., ELMIRA ON N3B 1L2
Getting ready for turkey season OPEN COUNTRY
Kings sweep first round victory over Bombers scott barber
not so great outdoorsman / STEVE GALEA
kings | 14
I probably don’t have to tell anyone who reads this column, but I’ll say it anyways. There are less than 50 days until turkey season. Most turkey hunters are overjoyed with this bit of good news. But those unfortunates who do not hunt turkey are probably thinking, “Big deal.” Well, frankly, it is. Fifty days is hardly enough time to prepare. And by that I mean prepare your spouse. What’s there to prepare you ask? First, you need to ready your spouse for the turkey calling sessions that can break out spontaneously at any time during the next 50 days. The way I prepare Jenn for this is easy. I start calling outside on our deck on weekends. Then, after she finally unlocks the door a few hours later and lets me in the house, I casually bring up the fact that turkey season is nearing and there will be more of this. A lot of hunters do this but fail to be diligent about the other critical part: sleeping with their calls. If you don’t sleep with your call, and one eye open, it’s likely to go missing. Yes, Galea | 14
FREE
QUOTES CALL TODAY! 519.669.2577
SPORTS | 13
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Spring hockey just four the fun of it More than 120 players to take part in new 4-on-4 league Whitney Neilson A new hockey league in Woolwich is all about playing with your friends and bridging the gap between the end of hockey season and spring tryouts. Registration for Woolwich Minor Hockey Association’s new 4-on-4 spring league filled up this week, but you can get your child put on a waiting list if you didn’t get in before the deadline. They’re also still looking for two PeeWee goalies. WMHA president Rob Waters says they can’t start tryouts until after AAA and AA tryouts happen in May, leaving all of April open with no hockey. “In order to justify keeping the rink open we had to partner with the township to fill some hours for the rink,” Waters said. “The last couple years, prime ice has been booked for the most part in April at the rink. I want to say we’re
about 45 hours of ice we’re booking just for that 4-on4, which is now full.” More than 120 players signed up in a three week period that registration was open for the Novice, Atom, and PeeWee divisions. He says this shows the demand’s there to keep skating between the end of the season and tryouts and before summer sports start. “It’s a good fit. I think a lot of families see the value in it,” Waters said. This league isn’t an attempt to keep kids playing hockey year-round, like some sports. Rather, he says this will just be for fun and won’t be instructional hockey like they’d experience on their other teams. The teams will play twice a week from April 7 to April 30 at the Woolwich Memorial Centre. “We wanted to provide a fun environment for players,” Waters said. “A lot of players that might not get to play with their buddy
in the winter because he’s playing for a different team, you actually can request a friend to play with. So we’re trying to make the teams to accommodate those requests. It’s fun and there’ll only be eight to 10 players on a team so they’ll get lots of ice team and it’s an opportunity to go out there and have fun with your friends.” He says they modeled the 4-on-4 league off of other associations who’ve done this. They chose 4-on-4 instead of 5-on-5 because this way everyone gets lots of time to play. He expects the league will grow next year, as other spring leagues have done. “It’s not just for Woolwich Minor Hockey players,” Waters added. “I know we do have players from other associations that go to school with some of these guys that’ll have the opportunity to play with them in a fun environment.”
Jacks ends the season on a high note with banquet, upbeat awards ceremony Scott Barber William Shakespeare wrote, “Sweet are the uses of adversity, which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in its head.” After a difficult 2014-15 campaign, the Wellesley Applejacks are certainly hoping to come away with the lessons and experience necessary to be better going forward. With a record of 1327, the Jacks stumbled through the regular season to an eighth-place finish in the Midwestern Junior C Hockey League, just above the winless Delhi Travellers. The playoffs were even worse, as the first-place Ayr Centennials swept the Jacks in a best-of-seven series, posting an astounding 31-8 goal differential in just four games. But now that the squad has officially wrapped things up with an awards
banquet on February 26, management can start looking ahead to next year. “The banquet was a good ending to the year,” team official Rick Grebinski said. “We were young going into the season, and while we never go into a season expecting to lose, being that our group was so young we knew that this would be a transitional year. We certainly didn’t expect to finish in the top four. But regardless, the group pulled through because they are a really good group of young men.” Character has been a recurring theme all year for the Jacks coaching staff, which sought to help the younger guys make the jump from Midget hockey to the Junior C ranks. It wasn’t always easy, with two coaches, first Jake Wilkinson in the fall, then Tim Robb at the end of the regular season, departing along the way. But there were some
significant individual achievements that were recognized by the club. The Jack’s top scorer was Cal Jefferies with 36 points (16 goals, 20 assists). Jefferies was also awarded the league’s most sportsmanlike award. The most valuable player award went to goalie Tim Bester, who posted a 3.80 goals against average and a .903 save percentage over eight wins and 16 losses. Rookie of the year went to Alex Uttley who scored 10 goals and eleven assists after coming over from Ayr near the start of the season. Justin Lebold took home the top defencemen prize and the coaches’ award, while Paul Morra received the most sportsmanlike and the unsung player trophies. St. Clements native Sean McEwan got the top local player award, after notching seven goals and 11 asawards | 14
VOISIN CHRYSLER LTD. SALE PRICed $246
$284
72 mths @ 5.99%
72 mths @ 5.99%
$198
60 mths @ 5.99%
$169
2015
CHRYSLER 200
72 mths @ 5.99%
TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY
LIMITED TIME OFFER
2012 RAM 1500 LARAMIE LONGHORN CREW 4X4
2012 DODGE RAM 1500 SPORT CREW 4X4
2011 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY TOURING
Only 32,500 kilometers, one owner trade in, premium leather interior, navigation system, rear back up camera, auto start and much more. Finished in red and silver two-tone. $36,995.
Sport appearance package with premium leather buckets and centre console. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, remote start, chrome 20 inch wheels, dual rear exhaust, spray-in boxliner and much more. Finished in black, only 62,900 kilometers. $31,995.
3.6 litre V6 engine, 6 speed automatic transmission, loaded with options including power sunroof, navigation, power sliding doors and lift gate, 2nd and 3rd row overhead DVD video units and more. Finished in black. Only 65,990 km. $21,995.
$126
$117
$
60 mths @ 5.99%
60 mths @ 5.99%
2009 DODGE JOURNEY SXT AWD
All-wheel-drive, V6 engine with 6 speed automatic transmission, power driver seat, fog lights and much more. Finished in deep cherry red. 96,800km. $13,995.
2010 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SE
3.3 litre V6 engine, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, 3rd row stow-n-go seating, one owner trade-in with only 80,700 km. Finished in dark grey. $12,995.
99
60 mths @ 5.99%
2010 DODGE CALIBER SXT HATCHBACK
Economical 4 cylinder engine with automatic transmission, air conditioning, power windows/lock, heated mirors, heated front seats and more. Finished in deep cherry red. 82,000km. $10,995.
2012 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN CREW
3.6 litre V6, 6 speed automatic transmission, full Stow-n-Go, front and rear climate control, power driver seat, power windows front and rear, fog lights, alloy wheels and more. Finished in dark grey, only 39,500 kilometers. $21,995.
$3000
CONSUMER CASH DISCOUNT
$108
60 mths @ 5.99%
2009 DODGE GRAND CARAVAN SXT
Has full Stow-n-go with 2nd row bucket seats, power driver's seat, rear power window group, rear air conditioning and much more. Finished cashmere. 110,200 km. $11,995.
The All-New 2015 Chrysler 200 sedan earns a spot on Consumers Digest’s list of automotive “Best Buys” for the 2015 model year. According to Consumers Digest, Best Buy award winners deliver the most value for the money in their respective classes. The Consumers Digest concept of value is based on a vehicle’s purchase price and ownership costs relative to subjective factors, such as comfort, performance and utility.
CALL ONE OF OUR PROFESSIONAL SALES REPS TODAY: RAY FREDERICK, COLIN KROPF, JEFF JOHNSON. All sale prices exclude H.S.T, and License Fee. Fixed rates, based on bi-weekly payments O.A.C. Finance rates are only good for date of publication.
361 ARTHUR STREET SOUTH, ELMIRA • www.voisinchrysler.com
519-669-2831
14 | SPORTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
kings: Team now waiting to see who’s up in the second round from | 12
at the WMC and the series clinching 5-3 victory on Tuesday evening in Brampton. In the latter two matches, the Kings took three goal leads into the third period before giving up a pair of goals to make it close. But each time they managed to hang on for the win. “Brampton never stopped working hard,” Flanagan said. “Their goaltender (Shane) Dietl played very well against us. So, all in all we are happy about sweeping them, but probably our play wasn’t as good as we would have liked it to be overall.” There were some standout performances, though. “Adam Brubacher was very good in all of the games,” Flanagan said. “To be honest, all year Adam has been excellent for us and probably his biggest asset has been his consistency; he is consistently good every game. ... Rob Kohli was excellent in the series, both offensively and defensively and he has been excellent on the face offs. He is one of the guys that we call on in every
awards: Management
looking ahead to next season FROM | 13
sists in 36 games. Tyler Seguin was selected the most improved Jack. Finally, the special Jacks award went to Tom and Julian Shamuon for helping the club with dry-land training. Looking ahead, there could be more changeover next season, as players determine where they want to attend post-secondary
school or they decide to pursue hockey elsewhere. But Grebinski is optimistic. “It really is cyclical when you look at it. Over the eight years I have been with the club, we have seen clubs rise and fall in the standings. But we’re fortunate to have a good foundation here with some hardworking kids that do a great job in the community. So we are looking forward to next season.”
medalist: Next up is a trip
back to B.C. for Canada Cup FROM | 12
Kings veteran Steve Jakiela beat down Brampton Bombers forward Cameron DeFazio during Elmira’s 3-2 victory Mar. 1 at the WMC. [scott barber / the observer]
situation, but especially defensively. Chad Herron has been excellent, apart from the suspension he took (Tuesday night). Cash Seraphim was excellent as well, working hard and so were Steve Jakiela and Brodie Whitehead. And stick Mac Clutsam in there, too,
because he was very good.” Clutsam led the way with two goals and seven assists in the series. Klayton Hoelscher potted six goals and an assist while netminder Jonathan Reinhart posted a 1.70 goals against average and a .931 save percentage.
In round two, the Kings will either face the Cambridge Winterhawks, if they can come back against the Stratford Cullitons (currently trailing in the series 3-1) or the Waterloo Siskins, who swept their first round matchup against the Guelph Hurricanes.
compete and get to see what their normal is, because it is extraordinary to me,” he said. “Just like when they get to watch me compete they get to see my normal, which is extraordinary to them.” Next up, Shuh Nathan Shuh will head to
Oshawa this weekend for a qualifier event for the nationals, and next weekend he’ll head back to B.C. to compete in the Canada Cup for a chance to make the 2015 world championships, which will take place in Odense, Denmark in November. After that, the sky is the limit.
galea: The right kind of preparation is key to making it through to turkey season in one piece from | 12
sleeping with your calls is very awkward to explain, especially if one of them is a bellows call. But, trust me; it’s the prudent thing to do. Otherwise the next time you see those calls will be in mid-summer when you turn over the compost. Another time-tested way of preparing your spouse for turkey season is by
practicing the 4 a.m. wakeup. It’s going to happen for much of the turkey season so they might as well start getting used to it. Be aware that your spouse will not be nearly as excited about the prospect of an early morning as your dogs are – although he or she might be as vocal. Which leads to the next critical preparation – sleeping on the couch.
There will probably be a discussion about this sometime in the next 50 days. In it, your spouse will very likely suggest that, for the entire duration of the turkey season, and perhaps beyond, the couch might not be a bad place for “someone” to sleep – especially if it gets moved to the garage. Trust me on this next bit of advice. Don’t agree and
then say, “Are you sure you are going to be comfortable on it? It’s awfully lumpy.” My experience is saying these words might give her new inspiration as to where she should hide your turkey calls. Other than calling and issues of early mornings, there are few other things that you need to get your spouse ready for. Aside from the fact that you
have developed a personal relationship with one of your turkey decoys, I mean. Spouses have a hard time with this. I think it might be a jealousy thing brought on by the fact that you remember the song that was playing in the sporting goods store when you first laid eyes on “Old Genevieve.” In any case, the best way
to handle this is not speaking about your favourite decoy much or showing your spouse that “Old Genevieve” has replaced her as the screen saver on your phone. If you keep all these things in mind, you will still have a happy spouse by the time turkey season arrives. This is something to celebrate – probably without Old Genevieve.
Learn more about Relay For Life at relayforlife.ca
Register now at relayforlifeontario.ca
SPORTS | 15
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Woodland volleyball squad heads to provincials Girls take the Breslau-area high school’s first CWOSSA title since 2008 on the road to Hamilton early next week Scott Barber The Woodland Christian High School senior girls’ volleyball team is heading to OFSAA. With a decisive straight sets victory (25-20, 25-16, 25-20) over Kincardine District Secondary School February 26 in Chesley, the squad claimed the A Central Western Ontario Secondary Schools Association title, booking their ticket to the province’s top high school sports event. “The team is thrilled,” head coach Jamie Wright said. “This is the first (girls’ volleyball) CWOSSA title
for our school since 2008, so the team is very excited about that. The girls are pumped.” The Cavaliers finished the regular season third in the District 8 Athletic Association standings with a 10-4 record. In the playoffs, the Cavs advanced to the finals before falling to Resurrection Catholic Secondary School in a tightly contested match (28-30, 24-26, 23-25). It has been a solid season, Wright said, adding the team has picked up its play of late. “We’ve been building momentum over the past
the score
Woolwich Wild
Novice: AE Feb. 26 vs Centre Wellington Home: 6 Visitor: 0 Goals: Hunter Brown, Daniel Kochut, Kane Kruschat, Josh Gibson, Cale Waechter, Owen Weber Assists: Daniel Kochut, Preston Hackert, Cale Waechter, Keegan Martin, Andrew Chumley Shutout: Evan Sauve, Jake Wingrove
Novice: LL# 1 Feb. 28 vs St. George Home: 4 Visitor: 3 Goals: Josh Uhrig, Connor Huber, Brandon Fishman Ryan Scheifele Assists: Dawson Brubacher (2), Connor Huber, Patrick McCarthy, Josh Uhrig, Connor Haley, Ben Hibbard Andrew Snyder
Novice: LL# 3
Feb. 28 vs Twin Centre Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Riley Dettweiler (2) March 1 vs Twin Centre Home: 5 Visitor: 1 Goals: Tyson Bauman, Riley Dettweiler (3), Declan Johnson Assists: Haiden Wagner, Carson Staken, Tyson Bauman (2), Becket Wadel, Blake Dueck
Novice: LL# 4 Feb. 17 vs Twin Centre Home: 4 Visitor: 2 Goals: Evan McDowell Josh Frey, Jack Mayne Assists: Jack Mayne Feb. 21 vs Woolwich Home: 4 Visitor: 4 Goals: Jack Mayne (3) Josh Frey Assists: Reid Deyell, Josh Frey
Minor Atom: A Feb. 21 vs Oakville Home: 2 Visitor: 1
Goals: Joey Martin (2) Assists: Sam Hacock, Evan Lucier Feb. 25 vs Guelph Home: 3 Visitor: 3 Goals: Joey Martin (2), Drew Birmingham Assists: Isaiah Reitzel (2) Jordan Chang, Denver Martin Feb. 27 vs Oakville Home: 3 Visitor: 3 Goals: Cade Beacom Joey Martin, Ethan Bickerton Assists: Ethan Bickerton (2) Joey Martin, Will Lavigne Feb. 28 vs Oakville Home: 2 Visitor: 1 Goals: Isaiah Reitzel (2) Assists: Cade Beacom, Drew Birmingham, Joey Martin, Denver Martin MORE SCORE Page 20
Since 1929
Darts Dart Boards and Accessories
few weeks having gone through the provincial Christian schools’ championships and then our district playoffs where we made the finals before losing a close battle. We played some excellent volleyball over that stretch and capped it off with a great day at CWOSSA.” The group has worked hard and excelled at playing as a team, Wright said. And they have shown the ability to overcome adversity. “One thing that I think is important to know about our season is that it has been challenging at times in terms of injuries,” Wright explained. “We’ve had a number of significant injuries to many of the players on the team throughout the season. We came into the season with some lofty goals and high expectations, but it has been really challenging to try and work through all of the injuries we have had. Then, because of that, it has also been really exciting to see
The Woodland Christian High School senior girls’ volleyball team won the A CWOSSA title Feb. 25, advancing to the OFSAA tournament this week in Hamilton. Back row: assistant coach Caleb Isaacs, Esther Fearon, Shae Westendorp, Kirstin Hofstee, Marika Frank, head coach Jamie Wright. Front row: Alex Geerlinks, Madison Visscher, Jocelyn Scott, Michaela Hellinga, Julia DeWeerd, Nicole Nusselder. [submitted] all of the progress and success that has come despite all of that.” The injury woes have shown just how deep the team is, allowing players the opportunity to get more playing time and really develop their game, Wright added. “There have been so
Local food is just a hike or bike ride away! Do you have ideas for improving trail, cycling, or local food signage in Woolwich? We would like to hear from you at a Community Forum!
Monday, March 9
Woolwich Community Health Centre (lower level) 10 Parkside Drive, St. Jacobs
Open House: 6:30 to 7 p.m. Community Forum: 7 to 9 p.m. • Purchase the NEW Grand Valley Trails Guidebook and the Guidebook to Woolwich Trails. • Enjoy refreshments from local food producers.
many players who have been able to step up when players went down. These are players that have shown that they are smart enough to be able to learn new positions when needed and have been able to pick it up quickly, sometimes at a moment’s notice. There have been girls who
have been willing to jump into new situations and try to figure it out knowing that they might make some mistakes, but they filled in and did a great job.” The WCHS Cavs go for gold at the Ontario Federation of School Athletic Associations tournament March 9-11 in Hamilton.
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
All are welcome! 103 Ontario St. S., Kitchener | 519-745-4053 Mon-Fri 10:30 - 6 | Sat 11 - 4 www.jamiesonsbilliards.com
www.healthywoolwich.org 519-669-6027
Visit Martin’s:
16 | VENTURE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Venture labour force / that time of year
Summer job search season Province launches its employment programs for students, offers incentives for employers whitney neilson While high school and university students are busy studying to finish up the school year in a couple months, there’s one more thing that should be at the top of their agenda: summer jobs. Ontario’s Summer Jobs Programs help more than 100,000 students annually with job hunting, resume writing, and applying for funding to create their own summer businesses. Belinda Bien from the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities says the programs have continued for more than 10 years because they know how important it is to help young people develop skills and valuable work experience. “A summer job is often a young person’s first experience in a workplace so we want to help them find and have the opportunity to gain some valuable skills and experience,” Bien said. The programs were created in 2004. All students aged 15 to 30 who are returning to school in the fall are eligible to access the programs. It might seem early, since it sure doesn’t feel like summer, but March is when many employers start hiring for summer positions and it never hurts to apply early. “Students often finish up the semester sometime in April to May as well,” Bien said. “We do have summer jobs to place them
that early. It takes some time to get the word out there, but we want to make sure that we’re able to accept as many applications as possible and place as many youth as we can.” Since its origin, more than a million students have used the programs. Last year, nearly $78.5 million was spent programs to help 117,217 students. The government is now offering employers a $2-per-hour hiring incentive to hire summer students, which can be applied for up to 16 weeks. Rural employers interested in hiring summer students can apply for the hiring incentive through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Providing Ontario’s young people with access to a wide variety of summer work opportunities helps them build valuable experience while saving for their future education. By supporting Ontario’s Summer Jobs programs, our government is helping students test their skills and discover their passion, which is a vital investment in the future of our province,” said Reza Moridi, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. The Summer Jobs Programs are also part of the Ontario government’s attempt to help youth find jobs in the province. Through the Youth Jobs Strategy, $295 million is being invested over two years to help 30,000 people from 15 to 29 develop job skills and get gainful
Dr. Rebecca Cannon B.A., N.D.
DOCTOR OF NATUROPATHIC MEDICINE
NOW OFFERING: • Hair Analysis • Hormone Testing • Allergy Testing • Cholesterol Testing • Glucose Testing
Quality care available for all ages and all health conditions.
www.elmiranaturopath.com 69 Arthur St. S., ELMIRA | 519-669-2405
food for thought/ owen roberts
Clock ticking on farm sector, foreign workers FIELD NOTES
Bien said. Another unique initiative is the Aboriginal youth work exchange program. It’s an eight-week summer job which works with natural resource projects. Aboriginal students have
Someday, as technology advances and robotics become more commonplace, we might not need to wonder where we’ll get farm labour. We’ll simply build it. But while researchers work towards addressing this challenge, a full-court press is on this month to try to delay or abolish a federally mandated rule that will see hundreds of foreign workers specially trained for agriculture jobs in Canada having to vacate their positions and leave the country. On April 1, this rule kicks in, requiring them to go home if they’ve been here four years. And it’s going to affect the industry, big time. The mushroom industry says it will be among the most affected. Take Monaghan Mushrooms of Campbellville, for example. Over the past few years, it’s hired and trained dozens of foreign workers, helping them become skilled labourers. These workers are now an important part of their and other mushroom growers’ operations. But Monaghan is preparing to
Students | 17
Roberts | 17
Students returning to school in the fall should start looking at the Ontario Summer Jobs Program as early as March for everything from résumé writing to job hunting. employment. “We also have something called summer company which is a really great opportunity for students who are looking to learn something about starting their own business,” Bien said. Students are provided with awards up to $3,000
to start and run their own summer business, for example, a cafe. They also receive hands on business training and mentoring. “It helps them to develop skills like sales, marketing, invoicing, bookkeeping and time management and customer relations,”
OUR POLICY — YOUR PROTECTION
LEE CLEMENS Registered Insurance Broker
HOME | AUTO | FARM | LIABILITY | COMMERCIAL
Elmira Insurance Brokers Limited
45 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519.669.5484 lee.elmirains@bellnet.ca
FIREWOOD Assorted Hardwoods Wholesale or Retail Stored Inside DELIVERY OR PICKUP Joseph Gingrich
519-669-1079
1296 Balsam Grove, RR#2 Elmira, ON N3B 2Z2
VENTURE | 17
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
ROBERTS: Canadians aren’t lining up to do manual labour, so farmers face real shortages from | 16
bid adieu to 32 such workers. And the reasons don’t add up. Canada is not swimming in farm labour. Canadians are not clamouring to do manual labour. These workers are not doing jobs that are easily taught to others. If they were, perhaps this four-year stipulation would be understandable. But companies such as Monaghan are up against the wall when it comes to finding labour. It is simply unavailable. Company spokesman George Graham says he is in “dire need” of workers.
He routinely runs ads on local radio and in newspapers trying to recruit them. But he gets few bites. So he and many others have turned to foreign workers. In the agriculture sector, this has become pretty normal, and Ottawa knows it. These workers are here legally, having entered through governmentapproved worker programs. And here’s why the April 1 ruling is affecting mushroom companies in particular. Mushroom harvesting must be done manually, like some other crops, but it’s also an especially methodical job when it comes to knowing the fine points
Students: Province keen
to stress number of options FROM | 16
three years of eligibility. After that their focus is on job readiness and personal development. Students who enjoy spending the summer outdoors might be interested in the stewardship youth ranger program. If accepted you spend eight weeks working on local natural resource management programs. Students turning 17
can apply. Bien notes the number of applicants for each program grows annually as the word gets out to more youth. “There’s such a variety, it could be anything from working at a local business to something that’s a little more pointed, like working with the Ontario Public Service,” Bien said. “There are lots of opportunities there.”
of how and when to pick. And unlike certain vegetable and fruit crops, it’s a year-round business, not seasonal. Mushrooms are grown and picked 24-7, 52 weeks a year. Monaghan gives new recruits a 15week training program, which includes classroom time and hands-on harvesting training. Workers are guaranteed minimum wage, but the more mushrooms they pick, the more they earn. Some get $20-plus per hour. But for many, it takes about six months just to get the hang of it. That’s why mushroom harvesting is a long-term employment proposition. Graham says trouble lies ahead if things don’t change with access to foreign labour. It’s critical for the operation of a successful mushroom business, he says. Many opportunities to grow both the home and export markets are being limited by the current restrictive practices. And to Ottawa, exports are a big deal. Everyone’s known about the April 1 deadline for months. Mushroom industry representatives from our area have travelled repeatedly to Ottawa over the late summer, fall and winter, trying in vain
More Than Just Great VW’s Over 20 quality pre-owned vehicles in stock
Financing available on all models OAC
SALE PRICED
SALE PRICED
$39,995
$22,995
Stock #D15026
Stock #V15019
2012 Audi TTS
TTS Coupe with S Tronic and Audio Pkg. This sporty TTS looks great in Panther Black with a Magma Red and Black interior. Have fun all year round with 265hp and Audi Quattro all wheel drive system. Winter tires are also included! Low financing is available o.a.c. SALE PRICED
$16,999
2014 Beetle Highline Automatic Transmission and Panoramic Power Sunroof! It looks great in Denim Blue with Black interior. This Beetle has 17” alloy wheels, automatic headlights, fog lights, KESSY keyless access, and a leather wrapped multifunction steering wheel. Low financing available. SALE PRICED
$19,999 Stock #D15013
Stock # D14366
Nissan Rouge SV AWD! 2009 Mercedes-Benz C230 4-Matic AWD! Low kms & AWD! This 2013 Nissan Rogue SV has an automatic transmission
All wheel drive with winter tires! 2009 Mercedes Benz C230 4Matic and is in excellent condition. It is well equipped with a backup camera, heated automatic nicely equipped with leather heated seats, and both all season and front seats, air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows, bluetooth, and winter tires. It has been fully inspected and has low financing available o.a.c. alloy wheels. It has been fully inspected and has low financing available o.a.c. SALE PRICED
SALE PRICED
$18,999
$14,995
Stock #D14365
Stock # D14282
2013 Hyundai Sonata SE Automatic
Low kms! This 2013 Hyundai Sonata SE automatic and is nicely equipped with air conditioning, keyless entry, power windows, power sunroof, leather interior, aux/mdi interface, bluetooth, and alloy wheels. It has been fully inspected and has low financing available o.a.c.
to get the right people to listen and take action on their plea to suspend the deadline and, in a bestcase scenario, let them stay permanently. No one can see an upside
to sending these workers back – at least, no one who has piped up publicly. Says Graham of his 32 workers who are starting to pack their bags: “They don’t want to go. They are
deeply upset – it’s very sad. They have established a good work-life balance here. They have a network of friends. They like what they are doing.” They should be allowed to stay.
PUBLIC NOTICE
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY TAKE NOTICE that the Council of the Corporation of the Township of Wellesley will hold a Public Meeting on the 31st day of March, 2015 at 6:45 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 4805 William Hastings Line, Crosshill, Ontario, for the purpose of receiving comments with respect to a Zoning By-law amendment application to amend Zoning By-law 28/2006. THE PROPOSALS: The Township of Wellesley has received an application for a Zoning By-law amendment related to a companion severance application (B1/15). The proposal is to sever a small parcel of land from 3458 Lobsinger Line and add this to 2637 Herrgott Road. The proposed severed lands will be rezoned from Agricultural to DI-3, to match the zoning of the abutting lands. The DI-3 zone permits an auto wrecking yard on the lands. The northwest section of 3458 Lobsinger is Zoned Settlement Residential; this zoning will not be changed. The remainder of 3458 Lobsinger Line is within the Agricultural Zone, which requires a minimum farm parcel size of 40 ha. These lands are legal non-complying for parcel size. The proposed severance will reduce the size of this farm parcel, the legal non-complying status will be lost, and consequently the zoning needs to be amended to recognize the change in the parcel size. These lands will remain in the Agricultural Zone, but will be subject to site specific regulations to recognize the new lot area of 7.8 hectares (19.2 acres). Any persons may attend the public meeting and make written and/or verbal representation either in support of or in opposition to the proposed amendment and plan of subdivision. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Township of Wellesley before the by-law is passed, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Township of Wellesley to the Ontario Municipal Board. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Township of Wellesley before the by-law is passed, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Municipal Board unless, in the opinion of the Board, there are reasonable grounds to do so. If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting or make written submissions to the Region of Waterloo in respect of the proposed plan of subdivision before the approval authority gives or refuses to give approval to the draft plan of subdivision, the person or public body is not entitled to appeal the decision of the Region of Waterloo to the Ontario Municipal Board.
Spring is in the air! Have an opportunity to own a blank canvas for customization. The 2014 BMW R Nine T utilizes a 1170cc Boxxer engine producing 110 hp and 88 ft lbs of torque. Fully equipped with Akrapovic Exhaust, Monoblock 4 piston brake callipers and BMW's signature Paralever shaft-drive system. Only 1251km!
If a person or public body does not make oral submissions at a public meeting, or make written submissions to the Region of Waterloo in respect of the proposed plan of subdivision before the approval authority gives or refuses to give approval to the draft plan of subdivision, the person or public body may not be added as a party to the hearing of an appeal before the Ontario Municipal Board unless, in the opinion of the Board, there are reasonable grounds to do so.
Prices include all applicable dealer fees, options and basic license transfer fee. Just add HST.
Additional information relating to the proposed application is available for inspection during regular business hours at the Municipal Offices of the Township of Wellesley.
2014 BMW R-Nine-T 1200
Information requests may also be submitted to: Geoff VanderBaaren, Planner, gvanderbaaren@wellesley.ca 4639 Lobsinger Line, St. Clements, ON N0B 2M0 PH: 519.699.3952 FX: 519.699.4540, Dated at the Township of Wellesley this 4th day of March, 2015
18 | THE ARTS
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
THE ARTS on stage / live theatre
Whitney Neilson The words of poet Edgar Allen Poe came to life this week as EDSS performed Shuddersome: Tales of Poe at the annual Sears Ontario Drama Festival, an event which brings together student plays from across the province. Drama teacher DJ Carroll said they started looking at a dozen plays at the beginning of the year, eventually narrowing it down to this dark piece. “This one really stuck out to us, not only because it’s a really strong ensemble piece, but it had a lot of really neat acting moments,” Carroll said. The play includes Poe’s The Telltale Heart, The Bells, The Raven, and The Mask of the Red Death. There are 22 actors and 10 students who make up the crew. Rachel Scott has performed in numerous EDSS productions and played the role of narrator. “It was really difficult because looking at the script we didn’t know what half the words meant, let alone how to pronounce them,” Scott said. “And then memorization was a big thing too. But I feel like we got the hang of it after awhile.” The play was open to auditions school-wide and included students from every grade. An adjudicator judges each play and chooses who moves on to the regional showcase in April and then the provincial showcase in May. “He’s looking for first of all, technical stuff like lighting and sound, were the cues done properly?”
Carroll explained. “He’s going to be looking at choral work, are they all on, are they in sync? He’s going to be looking at use of levels, colour, costuming. And then on top of all that he’s going to be looking at the level of acting, do they project, do they make their moments, do they hit the right beats?” The school moved onto the regional level in 2012 with their rendition of The Tunafish Eulogy, a tragedy about a young boy’s death. They performed The Legend of Sleepy Hollow last year, which didn’t make it past the district level. The festival originated in 1946 with three plays and now has upwards of 350 entries per year. “The hard thing about the adjudication process is it’s one person’s judgment and if they happen to like a certain type of play then it can be hard,” Carroll said. “Ultimately it’s about sharing the art. That’s what we do with the other 17 schools, we share the art with everybody.” Cast and crew members made their way down to Monsignor Doyle Catholic Secondary School a few times this week to see other schools’ plays before they performed on Thursday evening. They’ve been rehearsing since the end of December, just before Christmas break. Scott went down to see a couple comedy plays this week. “One was student written from SJAM and it was really well done for a student play. I thought the acting was really good,” Scott said. Cole Hickman, who
Drawing on Poe for dramatic effect Production of Shuddersome: Tales of Poe is school’s entry into the Sears Drama Festival
Chris Driedger, Cole Hickman, Rachel Scott, and Matt Lalonde are some of the EDSS cast of Shuddersome: Tales of Poe, which they performed at the Sears Ontario Drama Festival. [Whitney NEilson / The Observer]
THE
COMMERCIAL
TAVERN
T H E H O M E O F L I V E C O U N T RY M U S I C
Come and enjoy the songs and stories of
The Legendary
Sunday MARch
8
A Tribute to
The Great
Sunday MARch
plays the prince, says he’s looking forward to seeing different directors’ styles, in contrast to the darkness of their play. Carroll said the biggest challenge to their play is working together as an ensemble, which Hickman echoed. “I think it takes the effort of the entire cast and crew, as opposed to some other plays that may just take one person and they get all the spotlight,” Hickman said. They have to synchronize all 22 people at certain times because they’re all on stage, not an easy task. Carroll also notes it can be difficult to make schedules work for a large cast, with part-time jobs and extra-curricular activities. Timing is another point which requires lots of rehearsal, added Chris Driedger, who plays a shudder. “For the shudders, the ensemble is kind of difficult because you can’t just start talking and then say your line and somebody says something and another line. It’s all sorts of nonsensical little peanut gallery stuff,” Driedger said. Matt Lalonde, another narrator, says he saw a lot of good acting at the plays he went to at the festival thus far. While intricate, he adds it’s been fun putting theirs together. “The ending’s really fun. You have a big buildup to a very intense moment that should be very exciting to see,” Lalonde said. Carroll says they’ll be performing it for the hometown crowd, likely sometime in April.
22
Hank Williams Merle Haggard Hank shaped and influenced Country Music more than any one in history.
Featuring: Kurk Bernard, Dan Howlett, and The Weber Family.
Featuring: Harold MacIntyre, Kurk Bernard, Fred Lewis, Grant Heywood and The Weber Family.
e Don’t miss othwes s! sh great
CALL AHEAD FOR ADVANCED SEATING. RE, FOOD AVAILABLE BEFOSHOW DURING & AFTER THE
Book NOW for BEST SEATS!
Tickets: $20 a piece • Doors 2:30 Shows 3:00-6:00 1303 Maryhill Rd., Maryhill GREAT FOOD & GOOD TIMES AT THE TAVERN commercialtavern.ca 519-648-3644
CLASSIFIED | 19
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
TRIMASTER
Manufacturing Inc. – Guelph, ON
Looking for AZ Drivers and Owner Operators to run Canada and USA Company Drivers: • Competitive wage package • Full company paid benefit package • Company supplied cell phone • Home most weekends Owner Operators: • Compensated by Percentage (bi-weekly) • Competitive Insurance rates • Fuel Cards Supplied • Company filed fuel tax • Home most weekends If you have a clean CVOR abstract, and are interested in joining a winning team please send your resume to: rick@floydgibbonstrucking.ca HELP WANTED
Floradale Feed Mill Limited is an independent, family owned and operated feed company serving livestock and poultry producers in Ontario. We currently have an opening for:
Trimaster Manufacturing Inc. is a leading manufacturer of complex machined components serving multiple industries. Due to continued growth Trimaster has the following positions open.
classified deadline:
thursdays by 10am
Help Wanted RECEPTIONIST required Monday and Tuesday, 4 - 8:30 p.m. Flexibility would be an asset. Rate of pay is $11.50 to start. Email resume to: krista@kristasandellimassagetherapy.com
CNC Milling Programmer
Min 5 years’ experience, MasterCam and or Catia
CNC Lathe Programmer /Machinist
Child Care 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
HELP WANTED
Min 5 years’ experience, MasterCam, Control G Code
CNC Setup Technicians Min 2 years’ experience, All Shifts
CNC Operators, Lathe or Mills Will Train, All Shifts
General Labour
Assembly, Honing, All Shifts
Trimaster offers competitive wages, shift premiums for afternoon and midnight shifts along with overtime paid after 40 hours and a safety shoe allowance. We also offer a highly comprehensive benefit package to all employees which includes; extended health, dental and vision care as well as a group retirement savings program. Reply to: Attention: Coreana Yantha – Human Resources Trimaster Manufacturing Inc. 95 Curtis Drive Guelph, Ontario N1K 1E1 Fax (519) 823-2850 cyantha@trimastermfg.com
Heavy Truck Service Advisor Thur Heavy Truck & Trailer Repair are seeking an experienced highly motivated Service Advisor to join our team! The responsibilities of the role include greeting the customer, creating a service repair order based on customer’s request, and keeping the customer informed of the status of the repair. Must be able to work closely with repair technicians and have a general knowledge of the industry. We offer Competitive wages and a great benefits package!
Please email resumes to kirby@thurtransport.com fax to 519-669-0164 or call 519-577-1459
For Sale Electric Wheelchair, used only 7 months. In excellent condition. Paid over $10,000 - will sell for $2500 or best offer. Phone 519-669-8558. Hillcrest Home Baking Spring Sale March 3-14. 519-669-1381. 10% off all fabrics, tablecloth, hosiery, underwear, bedspreads, dishes. 50% off selected polyesters. 15% off selected and short ends fleece. 15% off 100% cottons. New: Seconds - tea towels $1.99, same thick quality as the seconds bath towels $3.99. Order your dinnerware set through the month of March and receive 10% discount still some discontinued sets at half price. Medium Walnut stain bedroom suite. Double or queen mattress, head board & frame, triple dresser, armour, 1 night stand. A-1 condition. $500.00. Call 519-638-2670. Mow System for 120’ barn. Monkton area. Call 519-347-2629.
Pets Puppies for sale. Blue Heeler cross. $30 each. 519-669-3503.
(Pelleting/Receiving)
• Strong oral and written communication skills • Ability to develop effective work relationships with co-workers, and • Ability to represent the Company positively with customers. At Floradale Feed Mill Limited we take pride in providing the finest in quality feeds and service to our customers in the livestock and poultry industries. Therefore, a background in agriculture is considered an asset. To apply, forward your resume to: Brian Chamberlain, Operations Manager Floradale Feed Mill Limited 2131 Floradale Road, Floradale, ON N0B 1V0 Or e-mail: brianc@ffmltd.com We appreciate all those who apply but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
HOW TO REACH US
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)
Seasoned hardwood for sale. 12” or 16” lengths. Stored inside. $80/quart for pick up. Delivery available. 519-465-8185.
Rentals 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 Moorefield - Large one bedroom apartment, with deck, furnished or unfurnished. Laundry facilities, parking, electric heat, cable TV. No pets, adult building. References. $855.00 inclusive. First & last. 519-6383013.
Auction to be held at
Breslau Airport Road Auction Complex
AZ/DZ Driver
The successful applicant will have
Firewood
Monthly PuBLic Vehicle
Renovate | Upgrade | Enjoy
This fulltime position will involve shift work week days (Monday to Friday) with an occasional Saturday shift. Responsibilities will include warehouse duties, night loading and possible pelleting.
JD 6125, 6150 Tractors & Bobcat S300 for rent. Available May 1/15 - Oct. 15/15. Daily, weekly, monthly prices. 519-591-1274.
auction
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
PRODUCTION WORKER
Farm Equipment
• Must have minimum 3 years flatbed, tractor-trailer, dump truck and forklift /moffat experience. • Must have clean driver’s abstract with Letter of Experience from prior employment for insurance purposes. • This position’s main focus is full time local deliveries (days) during peak season, with the potential of full-time hours during off-season. • The nature of the business is fast moving and dynamic, the perfect candidate will be extremely flexible and able to effectively deal with changes in business needs as they arrive.
5100 Fountain St., North, Breslau (Kitchener)
Sat March 14th 9:30 a.m. Repo, Lease, Police, Bankruptcy, Fleet & Others Vehicles arriving daily!!!
Please email or fax resume with Driver’s Abstract to: Email: fleet@stonelandscapes.ca Fax: 519-888-9904 www.stonelandscapes.ca
No Buyers Premium!!!
check our WeBsite for uPdAtes No Buyer’s Premium or Penalty! VIEWING: Friday March 13, 2015, 1 pm to 5 pm TERMS: $5000 Cash Deposit on Each Vehicle
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
TURN THE PAGE FOR MORE MORE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING SEE PAGE 20
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.
20 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
auction
HELP WANTED
the score | cONTINUED FROM PAGE 15
Auction SAle
NOW HIRING DRIVERS
Of Tractors, machinery and miscellaneous items, to be held at 7676 - 12th Line Mapleton Twp. (corner of 12th Line and Wellington Rd 12, 5 miles south of Arthur or 5 miles northeast of Drayton), for Larry and Sue Martin, on
P/T and F/T POSITIONS AVAILABLE
AZ & DZ Driver’s
Wednesday, March 11th @ 11:00 a.M.
MACHiNerY: 2011 MF 5455 Dyna-4 diesel
4wd tractor, cab, air, dual fuel tanks, 650 hours, 1 owner – good. Agco LT95A 4wd diesel tractor “Legacy Edition�, cab, air, duals, front weights, 1435 hours – good. Agco Allis 5680 – 4wd diesel tractor, loader, bucket, bale spear, 4700 hours – good. MF 275 2wd diesel tractor, duals. 1953 Farmall Super C with scuffler, painted – good running order. NH 790 forage harvester with 2 row corn head and 6ft. pickup. Kvernland 5 furrow semi-mount plow (variable width). JD 220 – 18ft. disc, centre fold, harrows. 18ft. “S� tine cultivator, hyd. wings, rolling harrows. CIH 5100 Soybean Special 18run seed drill, grass seeder, press wheels, track eliminators – good. Hesston 1120 – 9ft. haybine, 1 owner – good. 3ph sickle mower. Deutz-Fahr rotary rake. MF 224 baler with 212 thrower – good. 3 – 20ft. steel bale thrower racks on wagons (2 double reach). 2 – Dion 16ft. self-unloading forage wagons (right hand unload). 24ft. steel big bale wagon. Older running gear. Weberlane single axle dump trailer. Knight 8018 “Pro Twin� slinger manure spreader. 14ft. rubber tire packer. Lucknow 7ft. snow blower, double auger, hyd. hood. CIH 600 forage blower. Ebersol 30ft. enclosed elevator with motor. 7ft. 3ph scraper blade. MisC. iteMs: Baumalight 40kw pto generator on trailer – good. AgriMetal straw chopper with 11hp Honda engine. Lincoln 225 AC welder. Husqvarna CT20 small garden tiller. Estate type lawn sprayer. Wagon snagger. Tools and tool chest plus 2 wagonloads of farm related items. Note – Farm sold. No reserves. A well-kept lineup. See www.auctionsfind.com/gerber for photos. Lunch booth. Terms – Cash or cheque with I.D. Proprietors and auctioneers not responsible for accidents day of sale.
experience with LTL Freight is preferred but we are willing to train. All applicants must possess a clean CVOR & driver abstract.
PeeWee: LL# 1
At EnviroPlease apply in person at 7201 Line 86, Wallenstein, ON. or send your resume and drivers abstract to Email: info@enviro-eze.com Fax: 519-669-8301
519-699-4451 or 698-0138 2827 Hutchison Rd., RR#1 Millbank (Crosshill)
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.
& , / , $ ' 8 / 0 7 2 % ( 6 ( 0 2 1 6 ' 2 6 < / ( ' , ( 7 2 ' '
$ 7 2 1 ( ( $ 7
Minor PeeWee: AA Feb. 2 vs Guelph Home: 5 Visitor: 5 Goals: Tyler Martin (2), Cameron Leonard, Owen Troyer (2) Assists: Tyler Martin (3), Kyler Austin, Owen Troyer
Major PeeWee: A Feb. 26 vs Guelph Home: 4 Visitor: 1 Goals: Matt Fleischmann (2), Brett Allen (2) Assists: Brett Allen (2), Jake Clemmer, Jarrett Anderson, Keaton McLaughlin Feb. 28 vs Caledon Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Matt Fleischmann, Keaton McLaughlin, Jake Clemmer Assists: Brett Allen (3), Nathan
Minor Bantam: AA Feb. 23 vs Flamborough Home: 2 Visitor: 4 Goals: Austin Cousineau, Griffen Rollins Assists: Griffen Rollins Feb. 27 vs Halton Hills Home: 1 Visitor: 4 Goals: Kyle Rintoul Assists: Zac Pickard Feb. 28 vs Ancaster Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Zac Pickard Assists: Nolan Hislop, Bart Sherrer
Major Bantam: AE Feb. 22 vs Centre Wellington Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Riley Shantz, Tim Mayberry, Owen Lucier Assists: Ben Lenears (2), Kyle Bruder x2, John Hayes Feb. 21 vs Caledon Home: 2 Visitor: 5 Goals: Tim Mayberry (2) Assists: Sam Huber, Kyle Bruder
Major Bantam: A Feb. 26 vs Brampton Home: 4 Visitor: 8 Goals: Evan Gowing, Jesse Sterling x2, Cole Altman Assists: Nolan Hislap (2), Jesse
Sterling (2), Brad Hale, Austin Cousineau, Daniel Carr Feb. 27 vs New Hamburg Home: 3 Visitor: 4 Goals: Matthew MacDonald, Cole Altman, Evan Gowing Assists: John Wang, Nolan Hislap, Jesse Sterling
Woolwich Wild:
Novice: LL# 7121 Feb. 28 vs Stratford Home: 5 Visitor: 0 Goals: Hailey Mueller, Claire Catton (2), Kara MacPherson, Emily Martin Assists: Emily Martin, Nora Beatty, Charlotte McMillan, Sarah Montgomery, laire Catton Shutout: Sam Weber March 1 vs Waterloo Home: 2 Visitor: 2 Goals: Claire Catton Nora Beatty Assists: Charlotte McMillan Ally Crane
PeeWee: BB Feb. 22 vs New Hamburg Home: 2 Visitor: 0 Goals: Cassidy Moser, Delaney Douglas Assists: Ali Harnock Shutout: Cailyn Wilkie Feb. 25 vs West Huron Home: 1 Visitor: 1 Goal: Maddy Goss Feb. 28 vs West Huron Home: 1 Visitor: 1 Goals: Abigail Burkholder Assists: Delaney Douglas March 1 vs West Huron Home: 1 Visitor: 2 Goals: Hannah Carr Assists: Haylee Clemmer
thank you
St. Paddy’s Stag & Doe Brad Linscott & Keri Martin
Friday March 13, 2015 8:00pm - 1:00am
Elmira’s Lions Hall, 40 South St., W., Elmira Tickets: $10 Dance, Pie Auction, Games, Raffles, Food, DJ & more!
Contact Doug & Jenny Martin 519-669-1919
Thank you The family of Marie Reimer (Foerster) nee (Diebold ) would like to thank our relatives, friends and neighbours for the compassion and support shown to us during our recent loss. Thank you for the gifts of flowers, food, cards, calls, and donations to the Cancer Foundation or Regional Cancer Centre. A special thanks to Pastor Mark Urqhart for the inspirational committal service and to Sheila, Doris, Mary and Mitzie for serving the luncheon. Your acts of kindness and generosity will forever be remembered. Marg Steffler and family
death notices
Sudoku challenge
/ ) $ $ / 6 + ( , $ 5 0 7 $ 3 $ 3 , 1 , 1 ( ' * , 6 / ( 7 7 <
CROSSWORD PUZZLER
5 % 2 $ ' * $ $ 1 1 . , / 2 ( 8
, 6 8 ) 7 3 ) 2 ( < 2 / . 7 $ 8 * ( 1 ' $ ' 2 3 8 6 2 5 . 1 2
Feb. 23 vs Ayr Home: 5 Visitor: 2 Goals: Tyler Schieck, Cole Brubacher, Owen Schieck (2), Patrick Perry Assists: Patrick Perry (2), Tyler Schieck, Jamie Reichard
Taylor, Keaton McLaughlin, Cameron Martin March 1 vs Oakville Home: 4 Visitor: 1 Goals: Jarrett Anderson (2), Cole Chipman, Brett Allen Assists: Matt Fleischmann (4) March 2 vs Hespeler Home: 3 Visitor: 1 Goals: Keaton McLaughlin, Brett Allen, Jarrett Anderson Assists: Trevor Ferretti (2), Jake Clemmer, Matt Fleischmann
obituary
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS $ 7 2 ( 7 $ 3 $ ' ( ( $ 1 1 2 0 < , / 1 ( $ 0 7 2 1 5 2
PeeWee: LL# 2
Choose more than a job, choose a CAREER!
stag & doe
Gerber Auctions Ltd.
2 ; & $ 5 7
Feb. 27 vs Woolwich LL# 3 Home: 1 Visitor: 3 Goals: Connor Kroetsch Assists: Tyson Mifflin
Company paid beneďŹ ts.
Family Album
ProPrietors: Larry and sue Martin 519-699-0652 AUCtioNeers:
& 2 $ / 7 $ 5
March 1 vs Guelph Home: 8 Visitor: 2 Goals: Joey Martin, Parker Collingwood, Isaiah Reitzel (2), Eric Hutton (2), Cade Beacom, Evan Lucier Assists: Cade Beacom, Joey Martin (2), Ethan Bickerton, Denver Martin Jordan Chang,Eric Hutton
Beda Helfrid Havard (nee Moen) | Died peacefully at Lei-
sureworld in Elmira on March 3, 2015 at the age of 93 years. KOENIG, Maurice Cecil | Passed away peacefully sur-
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
rounded by family on Sunday, March 1, 2015, at St. Mary’s General Hospital, Kitchener as a result of influenza and pneumonia. Maurice resided in Wellesley and was born 75 years ago in Baden, Ontario KNARR, Valerie | Passed away peacefully with her family at her side on Saturday, February 28, 2015, at VON Sakura House, Woodstock, at the age of 61. Local relatives are her sister Theresa Hartung and husband Keith of Wellesley.
Ray, Douglas William ‘Doug’ Passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2015 at Listowel Memorial Hospital at the age of 65 years. Doug resided in Atwood and was formerly of Glen Allan. Dear father of Chad and Amy of Latchford, Douglas Jr. ‘D.J.’ and Christa, Cody and Brandy and Bailey all of London. Also lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Caleb, Hudson, Lily, Jailenna, Liam, Mason, Braiden and Ally. Beloved son of Virginia ‘Jean’ Ray of Milverton and the late John Ray (1982). Brother of Gloria Orr of Puslinch, Gary and Elaine of Kenilworth, Terry of Guelph, and Darlene and Charlie Koebel of Crosshill. Doug is remembered by his many nieces and nephews and their families. Doug touched the lives of many and will be missed by all. The family will receive their relatives and friends at the Dreisinger Funeral Home, 62 Arthur St. S., Elmira on Friday, March 6, 2015 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Saturday, March 7, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. Spring interment in St. Joseph’s R.C. Cemetery, Macton. In Doug’s memory, donations to Grand River Hospital Regional Cancer Centre would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
www.dreisingerfuneralhome.com
CLASSIFIED | 21
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
OBSERVER SERVICE DIRECTORY AUTOMOTIVE SERVICES
TIRE
THOMPSON’S
Complete Collision Service
WHERE TIRES
general SERVICES
AUTO CLINIC
Auto Tech Inc.
ARE A
SPECIALTY, NOT A SIDE LINE.
Providing the latest technology to repair your vehicle with accuracy and confidence.
101 Bonnie Crescent, Elmira, ON N3B 3G2
519.669.8330
Farm • Auto • Truck Industrial On-The-Farm Service
FAX: 519.669.3210
35 Howard Ave., Elmira
AFTER HOURS
SHELLY & SCOTT TAYLOR 28 Pintail Drive, Elmira, ON, N3B 3G9
519-669-0003
taylortax@rogers.com
Accredited Test & Repair Facility
519-669-4400
519-669-7652
30 ORIOLE PKWY. E., ELMIRA www.thompsonsauto.ca
519.669.8917
519-669-3232
21 Industrial Dr. Elmira
...& SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING
gENERAL SERVICES
MUSIC-LOVER GIFT ALERT!
Various sizes & rates
’s 60’s / 70
HIGH SCHOOSL BAND
GOSPEL
ROCK
MUSIC TRANSFERS FROM LPs, 45s, 78s, CASSETTES TO CD
CLEAN • DRY • SECURE Call
COUNTR Y
•Ratches, Hooks, Straps, Webbing etc. •Canvas, Vinyl, Polyester, Acrylic Fabrics
Your favourite albums get a whole new life on CD after we clean up the clicks, pops and surface noise.
519-669-4964
Boat Covers | Air Conditioner Covers | Small Tarps Storage Covers | BBQ Covers | Awnings & Canopies Replacement Gazebo Tops | Golf Cart Enclosures & Covers
WOOD GAS PELLET
CONESTOGO
519.595.4830
MORE INFO | 519.669.0541
100 SOUTH FIELD DRIVE, ELMIRA
General Repairs 180 St. Andrew St. W.
519-664-3800
6376 Perth Rd. 121 Poole, ON
EMAIL: vinylp2cd@gmail.com
FERGUS
1871 Sawmill Road
519-843-4845
877-664-3802
888-871-4592
www.fergusfireplace.com
general SERVICES “25 years in Business”
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
or
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
TROPHIES | CUPS | PLAQUES | MEDALLIONS RIBBONS | NAME TAGS | NAME PLATES DOOR PLATES | CUSTOM ENGRAVING
QUICK LOCAL SERVICE | 245 Labrador Dr., Waterloo
www.UniTwin.com | 519.886.2102
HOME IMPROVEMENTS SERVICES
BATHTUBS, CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN TILE BRICK, TERRAZZO AND OTHER SURFACES GUARANTEED, INVISIBLE, AND COST EFFECTIVE
JAMES BAUMAN
CONSTRUCTION INC.
For more info email noslipperyfloors@gmail.com or call 519-588-7413 | theredwolfcompany.com
WEICKERT& MEIROWSKI Concrete Foundations Limited
YES... WE DO RESIDENTIAL WORK!
6982 Millbank Main St., Millbank 519-595-2053 • 519-664-2914
space for rent
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
22 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 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 Interior/exterior Painting, Wallpapering & Plaster | drywall Repairs
For all your Plumbing Needs. 24 HOUR SERVICE Steve Jacobi
ELMIRA
519-669-3652
R O O F I N G
FREE ESTIMATES
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
AMOS 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
NOW ACCEPTING VISA OR MASTERCARD
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
INTRODUCING OUR PIC BUCKET
Lawn Maintenance Programs | Spring Clean-up Flower Bed Maintenance Programs Leaf Clean-up and Removal | Soil & Mulch Delivery & Installation | Snow Clearing & Removal | Ice Control 27 Brookemead, St, Elmira P: 519-669-1188 | F: 519-669-9369
kdetweiler@rogers.com
For digging through frozen ground!
• • • •
KEVIN DETWEILER
Trenching Excavating Back fill compaction plate Laneway sanding available
Murray & Daniel Shantz
ALMA, ONTARIO | PHONE: 519.846.5427
OWNER-OPERATOR
PRINTING | MAILING | SIGNAGE SERVICES
is an authorized
CANADA POST EXPERT! Contact us for your
Mail House
• Mail preparation • Sorting • Product Fulfillment • List Cleansing • Inserting • Stamping • Tracking M&T Printing Group will:
4”x6”
POSTCARDS PRINTED
FREE
*
YOUR POSTCA RD PRINTER
Because we’re excited with our role as a CANADA POST EXPERT, we are offering you an AMAZING DEAL!
16
**
¢ each
4”x6” full colour 2 sided postcard Unaddressed Admail Minimum order of 1,000 pieces **Plus 1¢ extra for transportation to designated RVU *All you need to do is pay M&T’s Unaddressed Admail rate of 16¢ per piece. PRINTING IS FREE!
www.mtprint.com 907 Frederick St. KITCHENER T 519-571-0101 265 Weber St. N. WATERLOO T 519-886-6800 21 Malcolm Rd.
GUELPH
125 Sheldon Dr.
CAMBRIDGE T 519-621-6611
T 519-836-4441
Offices also in London and Brantford
CLASSIFIED | 23
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
Don’t Wait, Now is the Time to List! A DONATION will be made with every home bought or sold by Alli, Paul or Sue.
NEW LISTING
$569,000 SPACE FOR GROWING FAMILY
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.
Alli Bauman Paul Martin Sue Wideman SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
519-577-6248 allibauman@rogers.com
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
519-503-9533 paul@remaxsolidgold.biz
SALES REPRESENTATIVE CALL DIRECT
226-750-9332
suewidemanhomes@gmail.com
$269,900 CENTURY HOME CHARM
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.
NEW LISTING
$475,000 $775,000 OPEN CONCEPT BUNGALOW SLOW DOWN & ENJOY THE VIEW Elmira - Make yourself at home in this 2 + 1 bedroom Exceptional custom built 3 + 1 bedroom home boasts a triple garage with a dirve 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.
$309,900 BUNGALOW, GREAT YARD
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.
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.
$459,000 QUIET CRESCENT
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.
Thinking About Selling? Call today and book a
FREE
HOME EVALUATION.
Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., Brokerage Independently Owned and Operated
$474,500 LIVE IN 1 AND RENT OUT 2!
Elmira - Live in this updated 3 bedroom home with an ensuite bathroom, main floor laundry, and attached garage with a low mortgage payment offset by the income of the other 2 units. With separate meters for the utilities and all appliances included, this well maintained property is ready for you and the renters that you choose to move in! MLS 1441079 & 1441072.
Suzanne Denomme
Independently Owned and Operated
YOU
=
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.
Direct: 519-574-2996
When you need to get the word out to friends and family, nothing works better than the Family Album. CALL US OR STOP BY FOR DETAILS. 519-669-5790 EXT104 www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
TEAM
TWIN CITY REALTY INC.
83 Erb St. W., Waterloo, ON N2L 6C2 suzanne.denomme@remax.net
A WINNING COMBINATION
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.
Sales Representative
Office: 519-885-0200 | Fax: 519-885-4914
OBSERVER
$549,000 STORE FRONT IN ELMIRA
3 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5426 Twin City Realty Inc., Brokerage
+
$649,000 PRIVATE HAVEN!
BROKERAGE
www.homeswithsue.com
MARTIN GROVE VILLAGE - BUNAGALOW
519-579-4110 OFFICE
sold@clickthathouse.com
Warren McNeil - Sales Rep. | Melanie McNeil - Sales Rep.
OPEN HOUSE | Sat. Mar. 7th 2-4pm | 170 Wesley Cres. Lovely bungalow in desirable adult living community of Martin Grove Village. Open concept, large kitchen, just move in! Close to St. Jacob’s market, Hwy 85, Waterloo shopping, etc.
Call Suzanne for info: (519) 574-2996
$4
4
5 4,
00
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+++!
www.observerxtra.com IS UPDATED EVERY FRIDAY BY NOON.
24 | CLASSIFIED
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
REAL ESTATE LISTINGS
Elmira Real Estate Services
SPRING AHEAD!
Bonnie
Daylight Saving Time Begins this weekend Don’t forget to set your clocks!
Brubacher
Shanna
BROKER OF RECORD
INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED, BROKERAGE
90 Earl Martin Dr., Unit 4, Elmira N3B 3L4
Rozema
Bus: 519-669-3192 Fax: 519-669-3322
BROKER
www.YourFamilyTeam.ca DRAYTON RIDGE
® 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 $349,900
OPEN HOUSE | 168 Ridgeview Dr., Drayton Saturday, Mar. 7th & Sunday, Mar. 8th, 1-3pm
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.
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!
until March 31st, 2015
TOWNHOME BACKS ONTO GREENSPACE $309,900 ELMIRA Double
8 YEAR OLD SEMI $300,000 ELMIRA
Completely finished, offers 3 bdrms, 3 bathrooms, nice kitchen with breakfast bar, appliances included, bright dinette with walkout to yard, finished rec.room, generously sized bdrms, c/air. MLS.
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
4 BEDROOM HOME $379,900 DRAYTON 10
3 BDRM CONDO! $199,900NORTH WATERLOO
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
Beautifully maintained & updated, carpet free, neutral decor, 3 bdrms, 2 baths, walkout to patio, updated kitchen, all appliances included. MLS.
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.
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 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.
CALL FOR YOUR FREE MARKET EVALUATION
For info on these or any other real estate enquiries, Call Dale
R.W. ThuR Real esTaTe lTd. 45 Arthur St. S., Elmira
BRad MaRTIN
Brokerage LET OUR 50+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORK FOR YOU!
JulIe
TRaCeY
WIllIaMs Broker of record, heCKeNdORN Broker Sales rep. MVa residential res: 519.669.1068 res: 519.669.8629 Cell: 519.505.0627
519-669-2772 www.thurrealestate.com
Bert Martin Re/max Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd., BROKER
Brokerage
Independently Owned and Operated
DIRECT: 519-572-2669 3 Arthur St. S. Elmira OFFICE: 519-669-5426
www.remaxsolidgold.biz
EMAIL: bert@remaxsolidgold.biz
FREE Market Evaluation
$539,000 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.
$249,999
$399,000
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.
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
Building in Drayton where homes are affordable
CUSTOM QUALITY Single Family
Visit our Model Home at:
Starting from
$350,900
LIKE US Facebook, a great place to make friends.
42 Bedell Drive, Drayton Mon & Tues. 1-7pm | Sat. & Sun. 1-4:30pm | or by appointment
226-818-5311 | verdonehomes.com
Friend the Observer and stay informed.
Find us. Like us.
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 $469,900. Call Bert to view. ELMIRA BUNGALOW! 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. 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.
Your referrals are appreciated!
LIVING HERE | 25
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
LIVING HERE opportunities / making music
Chef’s table/ Donna Gingrich
Doing what comes naturally Singing, writing and playing multiple instruments, Jeff Matthew’s musical ability has him in the running for Spectra Talent Contest, where he recently won the latest leg for his original song Whitney Neilson Jeff Boughner’s musical journey started the way many teenage boys’ do – there was a girl. And what impresses teenage girls? Boys who can sing. “The summer of Grade 10 I met my girlfriend and that’s what motivated me to finally sing,” he said. The former Wellesley resident now attends Bluevale Collegiate Institute in Waterloo and is one of 12 finalists in the Spectra Talent Contest, a competition which awards the winner with a Zedd Records recording contract to record a radio-ready single, but also a slew of other prizes and free workshops for all contestants along the way. Boughner, who goes by the stage name Jeff Matthew, was encouraged by his mom Amanda to enter the competition. That encouragement has paid off thus far, as he won the latest leg of the contest with almost half of the votes at a recent live show in Toronto, where he was the only performer to play an instrument while singing. And winning with his original song, “All I See is Sun” is made more significant because it’s the first song he ever wrote lyrics for, which he came up with shortly after meeting his girlfriend, Kylie. The 17-year-old started out singing country songs for her over Skype at his parents’ persuasion. “They were begging me
As winter lingers, stick with something comfy RECIPE NOTES
Jeff Boughner is competing for a record contract with Zedd Records through the Spectra Talent Contest, where he recently won the live show. The competition runs until August. [Whitney Neilson / The Observer]
to sing for years and I was like ‘no I’m not going to sing,’” Jeff said. “And then I met her and my dad was like ‘you know you should start singing, because girls love singing.’” Jeff’s musical inclinations began when he took up the drums at the age of 12 after he tried out his cousin’s and found it came easy to him. “I had natural rhythm,” Jeff said. “He saw that and for my birthday he came
over and decided to give me his electric drum set. Once I had that I was playing on it all the time and I got pretty good.” His parents were convinced he was going to be a drummer before he moved on to other instruments. “I would come home from work and my husband would say ‘you’ve got to hear this song he’s playing, you wouldn’t even believe it,’” Amanda said. From there he focused
on drumming until Grade 9 when he was introduced to the saxophone through music class in school. His teacher noticed he could switch between different saxophones without much difficulty and suggested he try his hand at guitar. He also began playing the piano, and plans to work more on it. “I started playing the guitar and picked that up really quick,” Jeff said. “The first night I could
play chords and it was pretty easy. From there I started to get really good at the guitar.” John Mayer, Eric Clapton, and Eddie Van Halen top the list of his favourite guitarists. When it comes to singing, he’s still getting used to performing in front of people. “The scary part is that you don’t have all the Music | 28
By the time you are reading this, I hope the temperature outside will have gone up considerably. Right now, it is frigid and, as my friend Anna says, “It is a lazy wind, it goes right through you.” One thing you can do as we wait impatiently for spring is cook comfort food. This Sweet and Sour Pork is perfect on a cold winter evening and is fairly quick to make. Remove all visible fat from the tenderloin with a sharp knife before you start to cook. Did you know that pork tenderloin contains less fat than a skinless chicken breast? So build a fire, light some candles and put on a pair of warm socks. With the aroma of this dish cooking, you will feel cozy in no time.
chef’s table | 27
Do you have an emergency kit in your vehicle? It is important to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times - especially in the winter and on road trips. The following are a list of things to keep in your kit so you are prepared for any situation! An extra jug of washer fluid, kitty litter (in case you need some traction), ice scraper, flashlight, booster cables, warm blanket, water, food (i.e. protein bars), matches and deep candles, and a first-aid kit. We also suggest a phone charger for your car so your phone doesn’t die when you need it! – Maynard
Tel: (519) 669-1082 Fax: (519) 669-3084
20 Oriole Parkway E., Elmira, ON
info@leroysautocare.net
www.leroysautocare.net
26 | LIVING HERE
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 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 1540 FLORDALE ROAD
E-MAIL: ads@woolwichobserver.com
MARCH 6
MARCH 9
Fibromyalgia Education Program: eight-week session program Fridays March 6 to May 1, 1-3 p.m. This program is designed to help people gain more information about their disease, learn how to manage pain and the medications used to cope with the pain of fibromyalgia as well as learn strategies that can assist in maintaining an independent lifestyle. Held at the Woolwich Community Health Centre, 10 Parkside Dr., St. Jacobs. For information, please call 519-664-3794 or 519-656-9025, ext. 0. Offered through the Ontario Telemedicine Network.
Baby Food Basics: 6 months to 1 year: Join Registered Dietitian, Robin Hicken at the Woolwich Community Health Centre, 10 Parkside Dr., St. Jacobs, 2-3:30 p.m. Learn to make and store your own baby food. Learn about what foods are good for your baby’s age and stage, how to choose, make and store baby food and learn ways to avoid “picky eating” and encourage “good eating.” For more information call 519-664-3794 or 519-656-9025.
MARCH 7 Woolwich Community Lions presents “Woodstock,” Lions Hall, Elmira, 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. Two live bands: Hwy 19 and One Eyed Jack & the Fog Duckers. Come out and join the fun, dress for the era. Lunch. Tickets $15 pp 19+ yrs. Tickets available from any WCLC member, downtown at FB & Me, The Window Box, W.C. Brown Mens Wear or call 519-6691258. Proceeds to community betterment. Country Jam Session, Elmira Legion, 11 First St. E., 4-9 p.m. All pickers and singers are welcome. Dinner served from 5-7 p.m. Ham & scalloped potatoes; $10/ person. Call 519-669-2932 for dinner tickets.
MARCH 8 Elmira Legion Hungryman Breakfast with Waterloo Regional Police Auxiliary. Proceeds to Waterloo Region’s children’s safety village; 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Adults $6; 6-10 yr $3, under 5 free.
P.O. BOX 247, ELMIRA
www.mgmill.com
KIN KORNER
www.freybc.com
MARCH 10 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. Woolwich Community Services has trained volunteers available to complete your income tax return. This service is offered free of charge to people with limited income. To find out if you qualify drop by or call Woolwich Community Services at 5 Memorial Ave., Elmira. Call 519-669-5139. Cholesterol Solutions: Let registered dietitian, Karen Reitzel help you discover easy ways to improve and lower your cholesterol level through easy diet changes. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Woolwich Community Health Centre, 10 Parkside Dr., St. Jacobs. For information, please call 519-664-3794 or 519-656-9025. Coffee Time and More! Please join Woolwich Community Health Centre staff for some coffee, tea and cookies. Join us in discussing topics related to
your everyday life struggles; let’s share our stories, experiences and learn new coping skills together. This group will meet on March 10, 31, and April 14, 10:0011:30 a.m. at Gale Presbyterian Church, 10 Barnswallow Dr., Elmira. For more information call Marinela at 519664-3794, ext. 235. Childcare provided.
Check Us Out Online! woolwichkin.com
MARCH 11 Seniors Community Dining at noon (doors open at 11:30 a.m.). Calvary United Church, 48 Hawkesville Rd., St. Jacobs. Cost $11. Community Care Concepts invites you to join us for a hot noonday meal, fellowship and entertainment. Call 519-664-1900 for more info. Coping with Symptoms of anxiety and depression: this eight-week group program provides an opportunity to learn and better understand what it is that anxiety and/or depression causes you to “think and do.” This group will provide new coping strategies, including various relaxation techniques to help decrease the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Wednesdays, March 11 to April 29, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Woolwich Community Health Centre, 10 Parkside Dr., St. Jacobs. Call 519-664-3794 or 519-656-9025.
21 INDUSTRIAL DR. ELMIRA
519-669-2884
MARCH 12 New Horizons welcomes all zoomers, boomers and seniors. Enjoy coffee or tea and a delicious snack. Speaker: Judy Brisson - from the Wild Flower Association in Guelph - Flowers in the Wild. Be inspired and socialize; $2 per person, 10-11:30 a.m. at the Maryhill Community Centre. For more information call Joan Haid at 519-648-2742 or email at jehaid@ explorenet.ca.
CORPORATE WEAR PROMOTIONAL APPAREL WORK & SAFETY WEAR | BAGS T-SHIRTS | JACKETS | HATS
245 Labrador Drive | Waterloo
519.886.2102 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
TOTAL
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,
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
SHARON GINGRICH 519.291.6763 psgingrich@hotmail.ca
226-266-2432 pmerlihan@woolwich.ca @PatMerlihan www.merlihan.com Wheelchair Accessible
places of faith | a directory of local houses of worship
building relationships with God, one another and the world
SUNDAYS - 9:00 & 11:00AM WEDNESDAYS - 7:00PM
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 8th 11:00 am
Trouble in the Rubble Ron Seabrooke
Discovering God Together
4522 Herrgott Rd., Wallenstein www.wbconline.ca • 519-669-2319
REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.
REACH WITH LOVE. TEACH THE TRUTH. SEND IN POWER.
www.kcf.org/academy
290 Arthur St. South, Elmira • 519-669-3973 www.ElmiraAssembly.com (Across from Tim Horton’s)
Emmanuel
Worship: 9:30am Elmira Mennonite Third Sunday of Lent Church
& Gift Discernment Sunday
EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH
Sunday, March 8, 2015
58 Church St. W., Elmira • 519-669-5123
9:15 & 11:00 AM Series:
REACH OUT. KEEP FAITH ALIVE, ADVERTISE HERE.
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
www.OBSERVERXTRA.com
Trending #Hypocrisy SUNDAYS @ 10:30AM @ Park Manor School 18 Mockingbird Dr., Elmira • 519-669-1459 www.elmiracommunity.org
Speaker: Rick Reed 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 | 27
THE OBSERVER | SATURDAY, march 7, 2015
Strange but true / BILL & RICH SONES Ph.D.
You might not make it to the moon, but some of your DNA has a shot at it WEIRD NOTES
Q. Would you rather
have a glass of beer or a glass of “dihydrogen monoxide�?
A. Truly, we humans are “up to our necks� in chemicals these days, with additives, contaminants and industrial compounds seemingly everywhere, says “New Scientist� magazine. Even fresh fruits often come with a cocktail of chemical extras, as tested apples reveal residues of insecticides, fungicides, herbicides. “Look hard enough and it’s much the same story whichever food you exam-
ine.� So naturally, the c-word has become something of a dirty word, and chemophobes understandably assume the worst. But consider “dihydrogen monoxide�: “di� suggests two-parts hydrogen and “mono� suggests one-part oxygen. Get it? That’s H2O, the scientific name for water! “Originally an April Fool gag, this meme has persisted, a perennial reminder of how willing people are to fall for scare stories about ‘chemicals.’� Q. How many people could point up at the moon and make the curious boast, “Did you know part of me is buried up there?�
A. Upwards of 10 million earthlings, if the Lunar
Mission One project is successful, says Paul Marks in “New Scientist� magazine. It’s the brainchild of British space consultant David Iron, who plans to charge people some 50 pounds each to place a DNA-sample strand of hair in “an archive to be buried on the moon, alongside a digital history of as much of their lives as they want to record, in the form of text, pictures, music and video.� The seed funding from this “hair-raising moon shot� will set up a company to design the spacecraft for a hoped-for 2024 blast off. After landing on the moon’s surface, Lunar Mission One will drill 20 meters (70 feet) into the lunar crust, insert the DNA and
digital data into the borehole and then seal it. As Marks concludes, “The hope is that the archive can serve as a sort of ‘backup drive’ for human civilization.� But, says Alan Cooper of the Australian Center for Ancient DNA, “for long-term storage, DNA from cheek cells or blood would be more stable.� Q. OK, you crybaby. Which mother is likely to come tend to your needs? Your own momma?
recordings of infant fur seals, the deer reacted with concern, says Jason Goldman in “Scientific American� magazine. A similar response occurred when they heard recorded cries of elands, marmots, bats, sea lions, domestic cats, dogs and even humans. So long as the fundamental frequency was similar to their own infant’s calls, those mothers approached the crying as if they were going to find their own offspring. “Such a reaction suggests deep commonalities among the cries of most young mammals. The mother deer did not show concern for white noise, bird calls or coyote barks� (“American Naturalist� magazine). Adds psychologist David
A. When biologists Susan Lingle of the University of Winnipeg and Tobias Riede of Midwestern University ran acoustic experiments on a wide variety of infant mammals, they made a surprising finding: When mother deer heard
Reby of the University of Sussex in England: “From an infant’s perspective, it is advantageous to attract any potential caregiver that could increase its chances of survival. And... “if a predator is involved, a parent cannot waste time deciding whether the baby in need of help is its own. The costs of ignoring the cry are too high.� And cross-species adoption in the wild may follow the same pattern, Lingle concludes, especially “if a mother has lost her own infant and still has maternal hormones circulating.�
about the authors Bill is a journalist, Rich holds a doctorate in physics. Together the brothers bring you “Strange But True.� Send your questions to strangetrue@compuserve.com.
OBSERVER CROSSWORD PUZZLER
Across 1. Cousin of a raccoon 5. Antibacterial drug 10. Eyelashes 15. Stubborn as an “__� 16. “How ___ Has the Banshee Cried� (Thomas Moore poem) 18. Buddies 19. Mature 20. Adept 22. Adversary 24. Objective male pronoun 25. To be 26. “___ bad!� 27. Back muscle, familiarly 28. Surrounded by albumen 30. Elbow’s site 32. Beryllium 33. Mouth, in slang 35. Drawn tight 37. ___ line (major axis of an elliptical orbit) 39. Objective form of “I�
40. Astatine 41. “To do� list 43. Mesons 45. Grateful _____ 46. Connected 47. Inch 48. One teaspoon, maybe 51. Acquire 52. “__ vs. them� 53. Irritable 54. Grassy area 55. Beethoven’s birthplace 56. Operating room 57. “Cast Away� setting 58. Fasting 59. Big deal 60. Tangled 61. Mary in the White House 62. Of me or myself 64. Be bedridden 65. Diarist Frank 66. Before noon 67. Do-it-yourselfer’s
purchase 69. “Crazy� bird 71. 100 cents Down 1. Certain pitch 2. Lockheed A-12 CIA codename 3. Indicate a ratio or odds 4. Up in the air 6. Astir 7. “Well, ___-di-dah!� 8. Dog biter 9. Atomic number 33 10. Engine part 11. Primitive instincts 12. Vermeer’s “Woman With a ___� 13. 1969 Peace Prize grp. 14. Agreeing (with) 17. Honked 21. In-flight info, for short 23. Distinctive flair 25. Have an effect 29. Acclaim 31. Quickly
32. Curve 34. Song of joy 36. Beachgoer’s goal 38. Indeed 42. Credibility ___ 44. 100% 45. Divisor 49. Lentil, e.g. 50. Absorb, as a cost 51. Pistol, slangily 52. Ashes holder 53. “C’___ la vie!� 55. Breathalyzer attachment 56. Expresses agreement 57. Information technology 58. Coif 63. Primordial matter 64. Indefinite article 65. Bracelet site 68. Promise to pay 70. Not in any degree or manner
Chef’s table: Quick and simple to make From | 25
Sweet and Sour Pork 1 can– 14oz. pineapple tidbits 2 tbsp cornstarch 2 tbsp brown sugar 3/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp ginger 1/4 tsp black pepper 1/3 cup water 1/3 cup ketchup 2 tbsp vinegar 2 tbsp soy sauce 1 lb. pork tenderloin, cut into 1-1/2�x1/4� strips 1 medium onion, chopped 2 tbsp oil
1 cup green pepper, thinly sliced 1 cup red pepper, thinly sliced Hot cooked rice Toasted sesame seeds
Drain pineapple, save the juice. Set aside. In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, brown sugar, salt, ginger, black pepper, water, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce and reserved pineapple juice. Whisk until smooth. In a large skillet, heat the oil. Add pork and onion. Stir-fry for 4-8 minutes or until cooked through. Stir pineapple juice mixture again, then add to
skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Add pepper slices and reserved pineapple tidbits to skillet. Reduce heat; cover and cook for 5 minutes. Serve pork on beds of hot rice, sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serves 4.
about the author Donna is the author of A Taste of Nostalgia Cookbook, which is available by calling 519-638-5791 or email donna.atasteofnostalgia@gmail.com.
OPEN 24 HOURS | 7 DAYS A WEEK
DELIV SER ERY AVAILVICE Call fo ABLE rD
etails
315 Arthur St. S., Elmira | 519-669-5403
Sudoku challenge
HOW TO PLAY: Fill in the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the numbers 1 through 9 only once. Each 3x3 box is outlined with a darker line. We have got you started with a few numbers already placed in the boxes.
28 | BACK PAGE
THE OBSERVER | march 7, 2015
Riverside: Waiting on township approval
3 DAYS
7
ONLY! from | 3
While those estimates show that enrollment level remaining flat through 2023, the use of portables could come into play early into the facility’s lifecycle. “We are prepared for that possibility and we always prepare for that because sometimes students don’t always come in the grades you might want them to and with class size requirements, sometimes it
doesn’t break out nicely in terms of the number of classrooms that are needed,” said Nathan Hercanuck, a senior planner with the WRDSB. “ With 24 classrooms, two elevators, a double gym and a traditional stage, the school will sit on a 6.82acre lot. And with construction expected to begin in June, it might be time for community members to start
[Submitted]
fundraising for a playground. “The WRDSB does not fund creative playground structures as part of new school constructions,” a board statement said. Circulated for staff review last week, Woolwich planners will decide whether to support the Kingsland+ Architect design within the next two to three weeks, manager of planning John Scarfone said this week.
Music: Online voting will help pick a winner from | 25
capabilities that you have with guitar because a note is a note on guitar,” Jeff said. “With singing some people can’t physically hit those notes. I was more scared to do singing because it’s a personal thing.” He adds, “It’s harder in front of people you know, that’s for sure.” Jeff’s grandfather, Amanda’s father, and uncle were both musical, which is where they think he derived his natural talent from. She says her dad played everything except wind instruments by ear with only one year of piano lessons. “He actually opened at a folk festival many years ago for Gordon Lightfoot,” Amanda said. “That was his claim to fame.” To make it to the top 12 Jeff sent in a video of him performing a Jason Mraz song, which got him into the orientation and past the first round of cuts. Now on top of schoolwork and helping look after his younger sisters after
school, he’s busy with workshops with the competition that teach the aspiring musicians about how to market themselves, among others. Next on the list is a retreat at the end of March. He’ll be singing four duets with four different contestants over the course of the weekend and the top 12 duets go to a live duet competition in Toronto in April. The group will also be doing a group recording next month at Zedd Records and filming a music video for the song in May. The winner will be announced on August 1 and is based on a number of factors, like online votes, live votes, and votes for how well they did at workshops. Other prizes include a Entourage Black Seagull Guitar for the top four musicians and a Munich ebike scooter for the top three. “The person who gets the recording contract gets all the prizes below it too,” Amanda said. “Every one of the 12 of them is going
to get something. If you win you get a recording of a radio-ready single that they will promote. It’s all really for a good cause.” Jeff will be attending the McMaster University nursing program at Conestoga College after a year of prehealth. He’d like to play some shows at local bars on the side. Amanda says it doesn’t matter to them where he places now. The fact that he’s singing in front of people and enjoying it is what they hoped he’d take away from the experience. “If you don’t expect [to win] I think you end up performing better because you’re that much more competitive, because you’re that much more intimidated by everybody else,” Jeff said. Votes are $2 and help support the contest, which is a division of the nonprofit Rainbow Association of Canadian Artists. For more information or to cast your vote visit www.spectrashowcase. com.
INTRODUCING the X7
POWER & COMFORT
9
11AM TO 5PM
SPECIAL HOURS 9AM TO 9PM
H C R A M R OU
S S E N D A M SALE! HEAVY BERBER
89
¢
99
¢
$ 47
REGULAR 2.99
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
12MM LAMINATE AC5 COMMERCIAL
$ 97
1
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
M AD N ES S
15.3MM HIGH GLOSS
12MM RANDOM LENGTH
RANDOM LENGTH LAMINATE
UP TO 7 FEET LONG!
$ 97
1
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 4.99
$ 97
1
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 4.99
M AD N ES S
MADE IN CANADA
RED OAK HARDWOOD
3¼” OR 4¼” WIDE X ¾” THICK
2 97
M AR CH
MADE IN CANADA
M AD N ES S
HARD MAPLE
3¼” OR 4¼” WIDE X ¾” THICK
$
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 5.99
2 97
M AD N ES S
CERAMIC TILE
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
GLASS BACKSPLASH
per sq ft IN STOCK
M AD N ES S
DRY BACK VINYL PLANKS NEW!!
HEAVY PLUSH
FREE UNDERPAD!
$ 27
1
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
WOOD GRAIN PORCELAIN TILE
REGULAR 4.99
vinyl
1
100% WATERPROOF
M AD N ES S
CLICK VINYL TILES 100% WATERPROOF
$ 97
1
$
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 4.99
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
HEAVY FRIEZE / SHAG
FREE UNDERPAD!
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 3.99
$ 27 per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 3.99
IT'S BACK!
FREE
1
UNDERPAD!
per sq ft IN STOCK
M AR CH
carpet
M AD N ES S
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 6.99
per sq ft IN STOCK
CLICK VINYL PLANKS
REGULAR 2.99
3 97
REGULAR 8.99
1
M AD N ES S
per sq ft IN STOCK
M AR CH
$
$ 97
M AR CH
$ 37
1
4¼” WIDE | 4 STAINS AVAIL.
$ 97
from
REGULAR 1.99
M AR CH
SELECT GRADE MAPLE
NEW!!
$ 07
MADE IN CANADA
M AD N ES S
REGULAR 5.99
13” X 13” | 3 COLOURS AVAIL
1
M AR CH
per sq ft IN STOCK
stone / tile
M AR CH
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 4.99
hardwood
M AR CH
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 5.99
laminate
M AR CH
1
from
per sq ft IN STOCK
from
per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 2.29
$
12” X 24” PORCELAIN TILE
12MM THICK LAMINATE
FREE UNDERPAD!
2 57 per sq ft IN STOCK
REGULAR 5.99
M AR CH
M AD N ES S
CARPET REMNANTS 12 FT X 12 FT
$
79 97 each IN STOCK
REGULAR 149.99
CARPET INSTALLATION
44
¢
per sq ft MIN 300 SF
L I F E T I M E WA R R A N T Y • A S K F O R D E TA I L S !
*products may not be exactly as shown. limited supply
Artist’s rendering of the new school to be built as a replacement for the current Riverside PS in Elmira
8
9AM TO 6PM
See our full line of
7456 4th Line, Wallenstein · 519-669-2323
Tractors from 24 - 212 HP
1362 VICTORIA ST N. KITCHENER 519.742.9188 MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9AM TO 9PM SATURDAY 9AM TO 6PM SUNDAY 11AM TO 5PM